Raymur Place Day Care

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. Observed outdoor free play in the Tree House yard today. Resilient ground cover was free of debris and in satisfactory condition with one exception, noted below and attached photo.

The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

Observation. Staff teams continue to work on creating intentional environments upstairs and down. Manager informed me that the ED has met with Parks and City with a list of repairs required for the building overall, including the childcare spaces. That work is in progress. The following issues may be included and or in addition to those already highlighted. Lake (Downstairs) 1) There are two windows (south east) that require repair. Manager stated that the city had been in to look at one of the windows because it would not close. Both windows are closed, one is taped and the other has a sticky that says - do not open. Childcare requires fresh air for health and hygiene and the current HVAC system is not sufficient. We have no idea how long it may be until building replacement so windows must be made functional in the meantime. 2) The northeast fluorescent light fixture is missing a cover. Mountain (Upstairs) 1) Observed tickets on both extinguisher in the room and the one in the pass through of the kitchen say ASAP re servicing. The fire extinguisher in the room - yellow arrow is in red (requiring service). Manager and staff team said they would alert facilities. 2) Flooring - There is a separation in the seam between the program space and storage room, partly taped but otherwise curling. Poses a tripping hazard requiring action. 3) Light fixture in storage room requires attention - one bulb is dim leaving vision impaired and the fixture is missing a cover. Shared with manager and staff team that this is significant risk as staff are moving and lifting equipment in this tight area, higher risk of contact with ceiling and breakage. 4) Lighting in program space - Observed sticky on one fixture indicating required repairs and bulbs fading in others. Anticipate that these items are on list and in progress for attention from city / parks. 5) Child and I observed that west washroom faucet requires repair. Water does not run long enough for sufficient hand washing. When compressed there is water that leaks from base. (The faucet in the east washroom in contrast compresses long enough for hand washing.)

Furniture or equipment for sleeping is used by only one child at a time, is clean and comfortable, and is appropriate for the size, age and development of the children intended to use it. [CCLR Sec. 15(2)]

Observation. During January 2025 inspection CCFL observed mats in the Lake room were beginning to show wear. Condition has since deteriorated and at least half of the mats require replacement. Edges are cracked with exposed foam. Can no longer clean and sanitize appropriately. Discussed options and timelines for replacement with Manager. See below for required action. Note the facility should plan on replacing the rest of the mats by end of 2027. Manager confirmed that staff team wash bedding once a week or as required. Bedding is kept separately in labeled drawstring bags. Mats are cleaned and sanitized once a week or as required.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. Inspected the upstairs deck play area, the downstairs play yard (upper and lower) as well as the Tree House yard. The following are issues highlighted for action. Lake (downstairs) 1) Landscape membrane is exposed at entry to yard (asphalt path to fibar) and just west of the stairs down to the lower yard. Membrane is curled and presents a tripping hazard. This exposure is not unusual in high traffic areas. It does not necessarily mean the fibar requires top up. Discussed options for addressing this with Manager. Manager will consult with city / parks re options. 2) Wood steps down to lower yard are slippery and covered with green slime. Staff remarked that children are slipping on the stairs and that the no slip strips only extend half way across the steps. CCFL requires the steps to be cleaned and then maintained on a regular basis. This may be sufficient to address problem. Nonslip strips may in fact be a tripping hazard (sometimes grippy shoes get caught and child falls). CCFL requests the manager and staff team work together to assess whether non slip strips should be extended after steps are cleared of slime and then maintained on a monthly basis. Tree House 1) Facility to continue with regular needle removal from the yard. Today there was minor accumulation around the tree house play structure. 2) Staff reported, on the north side of the yard, where the bushes were removed, there was extensive pooling during the last rain. Staff, Manager and I discussed variables at play. Manager pointed out the loose drainage rock on the west side between the sidewalk and yard were replaced with pavers. Manager noted the water tends to flow from this area, landing in the open earth area (where the bushes were removed). We also noted the earth has become sloped with wear such that water will pool between fake grass and fence. I inquired with Manager re whether the pooling water was draining within the day or not. Today there was mud, but no pooling. However it has not rained extensively today. Manager stated that the water tends to drain within a day. Noted that when changes are made to address one perceived issue (bushes used as hiding place or being damaged through play / drainage rock removed because children throw drainage rocks), there can be unintended consequences (e.g. pooling water). Noted that Raycam may try addressing one or two variables and monitor. For example, leveling earth to prevent pooling. If pooling does not drain within a day then there is a bigger issue re drainage that must be addressed by more invasive means. Manager said they were comfortable with this minor adjustment then monitor approach. Mountain (upstairs) 1) Deck requires a thorough clean - remove needles between panels and outside curbing, removing collection of balls between panels and outside curbing, pressure wash PIP surfacing. Noted that the green surfacing has not fared as well (stained and discolored) over time versus the condition of the blue. Both Lake and Mountain 1) All loose parts, including water tables, benches and tables, etc., require washing to remove slime. CCFL requests that removal is done as per manufacturer's instructions.

Children are provided with a comprehensive and coordinated program of indoor and outdoor activities that is designed for the development and care of the children, and is appropriate for the age and development of the children. [CCLR Sec. 44(1)(a)(b)(c) and Schedule(G)]

Observation. Each room was set up ready for the children in the morning. Observed staff responding positively to children's requests for materials and assistance (e.g. making masks, craft). Staff were open to innovative use of materials, encouraging appropriate practice in risk taking. Noted that construction, pretend play and sensory materials were heavily used and of child interest today. Manager and staff team members spoke of their efforts to implement intentional programs for children in care. Discussed with Manager and staff team expanding on the supply of large magna tiles and hardwood blocks. Current supply is very popular and but number/ range is limiting creativity and cooperative play. For example, supply is not sufficient to support solo, parallel and cooperatively play. Manager committed to expanding on supply of construction materials within the year.

The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

Observation. Staff teams continue to work on creating intentional environments with the children. The 3 seater couches that were peeling last year have been replaced by a loveseat and soft chair. Observed both in use this morning. Observed the following - Downstairs - washroom The taps on the left side (crystal handles) are loose. Noted that the cap could be popped and taps tightened then monitored or if the centre is looking for a permanent solution - replaced. There is some rust appearing in the bowl of the left sink - to be monitored. The finish on the blue countertops, below the mirrors, is starting to show wear and should be monitored.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. Downstairs - adjacent (south) playground Observed that portions of the chain link fencing are covered by black tarps. Inquired as to the intention of the tarp. Staff said it was to provide some privacy to the children at play. Children are still able to have a visual connection with the neighbourhood via the platform on the play structure and through the fence in the upper playground. Noted some white streaks of bird feces along the black tarping. Child access to bird feces is a health and hygiene issue. Inquired as to whether the pressure from the hose sprayer is enough to remove the feces. Staff confirmed that in most cases the pressure of the spray nozzle was enough. Staff team will discuss how to ensure the tarps are sprayed down on a regular basis and or as needed. Responsibility for this routine maintenance will be determined. Staff members discussed the ongoing challenges with rats & other rodents in the outdoor playground. Pest control has been consulted and a work order has gone in regarding required prevention measures and repairs. Evidence of rodents has appeared in the shed. This is a health and hygiene issue as the children's play items are stored in the shed. Pest control believes the entry point is via the southeast corner next to the rotting (greenish) post. A work order has gone in to have the entry point addressed. Observed a hole along the retaining wall between the lower and upper playgrounds. This retaining wall has been a favourite entry point for rats pre and post yard renovation. A work order has gone in to request preventative measures. Discussed how the VSB deals with chronic entry points including metal mesh. Staff reported the children are enjoying the recently purchased outdoor loose parts. The items appear to be weathering well. Upstairs - adjacent deck playground Observed that there are what appears to be soil stains along the south side of the green poured in place, especially next to the planters. Green algae is starting to accumulate between the panel fencing and the parapet. Observed that around the corner to the north, next to an interior exit/ entrance, there is a small accumulation of bird feces. Discussed with staff member who agreed that an early spring pressure washing and scrub was a good idea. Staff reported the children continue to enjoy the deck - the loose parts and the hammock. Both groups rotate use of the Tree House Playground.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. When I arrived, there was a crew of two working on filling in gravel by the new retaining wall on the upper playground downstairs. Staff reported progress has been slow on the yard work. Manager is keeping CCFL updated as to the progress. A reminder that this item has been in noncompliance since February 7, 2022. Noted that the deck today was partly covered by debris from the adjacent tree. I inquired about this with staff. Staff team upstairs stated that facilities regularly clears the deck of needles and other debris. Manager and staff are monitoring to ensure the area is maintained.

The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

Observation. Observed continued wear and tear on the counters and flooring in the downstairs and upstairs washrooms. Manager to monitor. New and older carpets are in satisfactory condition. Observed evidence of active rodent infestation including fresh mouse droppings in the downstairs childcare staff washroom. Upstairs staff reported mice activity during nap time, including mice running across the floor in proximity to children sleeping. Current pest control measures are not addressing the problem. Staff team reported concern re the lack of deep cleaning and sanitizing of the washrooms and activity areas by the night cleaning staff. There was evidence of debris collected in corners of the facility that may be a contributing factor to the ongoing rodent problem.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. Downstairs daycare yard 1) The tiled playground continues to have issues with soft spots throughout, especially along the south fence in the upper yard and south edge at the top of the stairs down to the lower playground. Soft spots have been cited as a hazard since July 2021 without a permanent solution. 2) Rats continue to infest the outdoor play yard, tunneling is evident in the planters. Despite efforts to screen off openings and the installation of bait boxes with pesticides, the infestation continues. This issue has been cited by CCFL since 2022. 3) Playground renovation plans approved in 2020 required a shade sail to be installed over the the upper northeast corner of the yard. A tarp was zip tied onto a frame instead. Staff have to poke the tarp from underneath with a broom handle when it rains to dispel pooling water or snow. This issue has been cited on reports since 2021. It is time to install the prior approved appropriate snow/ rain/ shade cover. 4) The retaining wall for the outdoor playground is deteriorating. The wood piling along the alley shows signs of rot and decay, posts are leaning under the weight. The cement retaining wall on the east side has a wide fissure. Manager reported the city sent a crew out to address the crack. There was no consultation with the childcare team. Metal straps are now bolted into the concrete. Large cement blocks were placed abutting the retaining wall as additional support. Manager and staff team are concerned that in attempting to bandaid one problem another has been created. The cement blocks create a resting spot for individuals to congregate evenings and weekends plus an access point for those motivated to enter the childcare yard. The blocks present a challenge for teens and youth in the neighbourhood to climb and jump from, resulting in possible injury. A hazard free long term solution must be found.

Food and drink provided to children is sufficient in quantity and quality to meet the developmental needs of each child. [CCLR Sec.48(3)]

Observation. Next to the sign in and out sheet was a notice to families re snack and meal time changes. Since January 2023, an outside supplier has been providing the snacks and lunches for the licensed child care programs. Staff and Manager explained this is due to a number of adjustments necessitated as per funding agreement with the $10 a day program. The notice informs families of the limitations of snacks and lunches re size of portions and content. Families of children requiring additional food or dietary needs outside of nut free and halal options are requested to provide food for their child. The notice states all meals will be nut free and pork free. Note - the notice also quotes that Halal / Zabiha options are not provided for every meal due to financial /operational constraints. I requested and reviewed the menu. The menu was limited compared with what had been offered by the Raycam community kitchen. Noted the number of processed, "fast food" style options (e.g. mini burgers, chicken nuggets and mac n cheese) on the menu. In the past, Raycam (while not perfect) provided snacks and meals that emphasized "whole" foods that were sensitive to family's backgrounds with many different ethnic options and dietary substitutions provided. Past offerings emphasized fresh fruit and vegetables. Offerings could be responsive to attendance/ daily needs because they were made on site. During this inspection, staff upstairs and down spontaneously raised questions and concerns regarding the current service. While all appreciated going with a local social enterprise, the lack of experience with food services for children and requirements within a licensed child care program was noted. Staff and Manager shared feedback re the content (especially the limited variety and amount of processed foods) and portion size. As per Raycam philosophy and practice, children in the past have been offered what they need to feel full. This has been a foundation of the Raycam food program as a support for children and families for whom food security can be an issue. While the food and portions offered may meet the Canada Food Guide, the menu and portion sizes may be in conflict with other sections of the licensing regulations regarding food and drink meeting individual needs. The Canada Food Guide has improved in recent years but is still informed by a number of biases including but not limited to assumptions about class, food security. Furthermore, the Guide does not take into account the natural fluctuations in children's daily intake due to taste, interest and / or growth spurts. The Manager and I discussed the need to review and act on these concerns to ensure compliance. Manager stated the current arrangement with the outside contractor was temporary until issues regarding funding and the 10 day a program were sorted. CCFL supports finding a solution that ensures children's and families needs are met. This solution must be a timely one.

The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

Observation. Observed continued wear and tear on counters and flooring in the downstairs washrooms. This continues to be monitored and will be acted on if the condition deteriorates. Staff downstairs said the children and staff team are please with the new carpet, curtains and transportation play table. Noted the transportation play table was a popular destination spot for the children. Noted that staff have installed a hammock swing off one of the beams in the upstairs child care. There was one child who spent the duration of my visit in this hammock swing, slowly rocking, poking limbs in and out and then cocooning themselves in the swing. Staff noted the tear along the swing and were wondering if it was possible to obtain another swing for use up and downstairs, indoors and out. Given the range of needs within the up and downstairs programs, additional hammocks and or hammock swings are an important piece of equipment to be accessed by both down and upstairs children.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. Downstairs The downstairs playground is in need of the following attention. 1) The south edge of the tiled playground continues to have issues with erosion of the underlying fill. The ongoing soft spots are a health and safety hazard. This deterioration has been noted in routine inspections since July 2021. 2) In addition the planters adjacent are experiencing rodents tunneling and making nests. The earth is replenished then the rodents come and tunnel again. Staff team suspects the rodents are tunneling in from under the tiled area. Staff team stated a work order had gone in to address the soft spots and the state of the planters. Manager stated a facilities staff came out and inspected. Facilities staff confirmed the retaining wall area along the south side needs to be redone to permanently address and prevent this problem from recurring. 3) The tarp over the upper northeast corner of the yard collects snow and rain. Staff have to poke the tarp from underneath with the handle of a rake, etc. in order to remove pooling water. Plans approved in 2020 prior to installation involved proper rain / sun shade sails. It is time to revisit installing a proper snow/rain/ sun cover. 4) Staff noted the amount of sand under the play structure has diminished. Note at least 9-12 inches is required for resilient ground cover under the structure. Ensure this level of sand is in place to ensure safety. Upstairs The upstairs deck has been in noncompliance since October 2020. Poured in place resilient ground cover has been installed. Some of the loose parts, storage and planter boxes have arrived or are on their way. Manager stated that the company that is providing the planter boxes will also be mentoring children and staff re gardening. These are positive incremental steps. However, the shade sails required to ensure staff and children can use the deck have not yet been installed. CCFL note the following requires attention. 1) Ensure that all approved and ordered loose parts, storage and planters are installed asap after delivery. 2) The manager noted there has been a delay in installing the shade sails due to concerns re structural integrity. An engineering report is apparently required to move forward. Licensee and all involved parties must ensure the shade sails are erected in a timely manner as spring and summer are fast approaching. The shade sails are required to mitigate heat/ sun exposure and provide shade as required under the Director of Licensing Standards of Practice.

A healthy and safe environment is provided at all times [CCLR Sec. 13(1)].

Observation. Observed staff in both rooms using the two step method of cleaning and then sanitizing with a quatz solution. Had discussion with staff in the upstairs room re contact time for the quatz solution. Staff have been leaving the quatz on surfaces to air dry which is perfectly acceptable. However there are times when you might need to spray, leave on for the contact time as per manufacturers instructions and then wipe up, e.g. a spill in the washroom, bodily fluids. Staff will check what the manufacturer's instructions are for contact time. Observed the toothbrush storage in the washrooms. Downstairs there is a holding rack with a mesh cover to help mitigate droplets from the toilets flushing. Upstairs staff noted the mesh was missing. Staff stated they would re-install the mesh cover. Noted that art supplies or trays were in the staff washroom and children's water jugs were being filled at what would be the art sink. Important to ensure that art/ washroom/ snack or water bottle prep be kept separate to prevent cross contamination. Staff upstairs said pest control had been called in to source a mouse problem. The technician believes the mice are nesting in the accordion door storage. A work order has gone in but action has not yet been taken. Carpets, flooring and furnishings as well as toys and play materials appear to be clean and in satisfactory condition overall.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. The downstairs playground adjacent the child care is currently closed due to bee's nest. Work order went in last week. Child care is still waiting for action to remove the bees. The downstairs playground tile along the south fence edge continue to have issues with the underlying fill erosion creating soft spots that are a health and safety hazard. Result is an ongoing of band aid fixes with no permanent solution. Upstairs deck has been in noncompliance since October 2020, July 2021 and February 7, 2022 and now again on July 27, 2022. The renovation of this yard requires immediate attention. The lack of attention is impacting the program's risk rating.

Implementation of the fire drill system is practiced at least once each month, and implementation of the emergency plan is practiced at least once each year. [CCLR Sec. 22(2)(b)(c)]

Observation. Noted the upstairs program has recorded monthly fire drills and since March 2022 monthly earthquake drills. Explained to staff that while the CCLR requires monthly fire drills to be completed and recorded, the "emergency plan" requires yearly practice. That said, children are not going to remember the earthquake drill if it is only practiced once a year; best practice is to conduct and record additional emergency drills (with children and or with staff) including earthquake, utility failure, lock down. Regular practice helps to ensure the safety of all. Downstairs monthly fire drills were recorded consistently up to and including May 9, 2022. Earthquake drill was last done in January 2022. (Note fire drills must be done and recorded monthly.) CCFL strongly recommends consistent practice across the two rooms in order to ensure compliance with the CCLR.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. Issues related to the downstairs and upstairs play areas were discussed with staff present as well as the acting manager post inspection. Expressed concern that the upstairs deck has been out of compliance since October 2020 and July 2021. See previous reports re broken planters, slime and algae accumulation and replacement of the ground tiles. Repairs to the deck have been neglected and a promised plan for renovation of the deck as a whole, not forthcoming. The result - upstairs daycare children cannot safely access the only adjacent outdoor play area available to them. This is of particular concern due to the lack of outdoor play options at Raycam and the fact that the deck is one of two emergency exits.

The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

Observation. Downstairs The ground under the rubber tile (installed in 2019) is failing in certain sections of the yard creating a safety hazard. There are two significant soft sections along the south fence and another area (that is blocked off by yellow tape) at the opening next to the stairs to the sand area. Staff and Licensee (rep) stated work orders had gone in regarding these hazards but no timeline has been given. The sand is eroding along the retaining wall exposing areas that rodents may access. CCFL discussed options for preventing egress, including metal mesh as has been done in other community centre and school yards. Upstairs The upstairs deck is not currently in use due to its condition. CCFL is in agreement that this area cannot be used with the children due to poor and hazardous condition of the rubber tile and planters. Licensee (rep) said discussions have taken place with parks re the deck and options. Licensee (rep) has also spoken with elders regarding how to green the area and include plantings reflective of the west coast. CCFL supports a re-visioning and redesign of the upstairs deck. Plans must be submitted to CCFL for review and approval prior to any installation or construction. Any demolition safety plans are to be submitted to CCFL for approval prior to work starting.

Prior to employing staff the manager has met with each person and has obtained the appropriate documentation. [CCLR Sec. 19(1)]

Observation. There are new staff and staffing has changed between program since CCFL's last routine inspection. In order to assess compliance, CCFL has requested an updated Child Care Staff List from the acting manager and Licensee (rep) prior to completion of this inspection.