ywca Crabtree Corner Early Learning And Care Center (<36Mos)

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. The condition of the kitchen counter has deteriorated since my last routine visit. Buckling visible at seam of counter north of kitchen sink. Manager indicated and evidence supports that attempts to mitigate the damage with band aid repairs have not been successful. The flooring below the south kitchen counter next to the entry from the cubbies has a large, narrow chunk out of the flooring, exposing the base flooring below. Difficult to clean adequately. CCFL and Manager noted the same issue regarding the transition plate between the flooring and carpet areas of the activity room. The plate tends to raise and nails have been popping up such that many are now removed. This was cited on the routine inspection report in January 2025. Manager again stated the team's preference for ongoing maintenance and flexibility is to have smooth flooring throughout and use area carpets for softness and definition. Cubbies were replaced in December 2025. Manager noted that some of the baseboard in the main activity room had come off but had been addressed.

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. Outdoor play yard went through a renovation over 2024 and 2025. Manager noted a few deficiencies they are trying to address via the contractor and facilities management. During January 2025 routine, an issue was raised re the safety and security of the bird spikes along the south and east walls surrounding the children's 3-5 playground. At that time, a strong wind had recently blown some of the spikes down into the yard. Since that time, more and more debris and green slimy vegetation has accumulated along the wall and throughout the spikes. The facility manager has been unable to address this, due to a health issue. Manager spoke of hiring in a contractor to address this issue. The yellow circle bench around the umbrella gazebo is showing wear and requires attention. The wood bench is damaged, particularly on the south side. Manager said this has been brought to management attention. Noted the gate between the 3-5 yard and the north infant playground is sticking. The wood post is worn at the bottom indicating this is where the friction is. Manager thought this repair may be dealt with in house with facilities manager. Manager reported that the YWCA will be submitting a bulk order for sand to top up all program sand boxes shortly. This will likely be done by early spring. Manager stated that all yards will be pressure washed by early spring, part of seasonal maintenance.

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 3-5 playground is undergoing renovation. The new sand pit is open and being enjoyed by the children. The rest of the yard is blocked off. Crew is awaiting tile delivery before they can proceed. Manager is in contact with contractor to inquire as to upper rails proposed for the new playground structure. Manager will keep CCFL apprised. Manager informed CCFL as an incident where the bird spikes on top of the 3-5 playground fell off and onto the ground below. The theory is that a strong wind blew the unit off the wall. Manager and staff are concerned and would like the the bird spikes - all along the south and east walls surrounding the children's playground - checked for maintenance and security. Strong winds are more frequent and should be anticipated as part of climate change.

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. Overall the furniture and equipment is in satisfactory condition. The washroom renovation resulted in deficiencies and elements that did not conform with the agreed upon plan. Manager reported the company overseeing the project has booked another contractor to come redo the flooring to the agreed upon standard as well as repairing the deficiencies with the cabinets. The small child sized couch and chair are in poor condition, e.g. there are cracks in the vinyl exposing foam underneath and one arm is taped. There is a leak in in the 3-5 nap room related to aging HVAC system, a coil is to be replaced and the job will likely take 2 days. The brown stained ceiling tiles reflect the ongoing damage. Manager and I discussed how a safety plan will be required for the program to operate. Noted that it may be challenging to create a plan to address safety and supervision, given the location of the room and the limited egress, e.g. the workers will have to come through the office into the activity room area and then into the nap room. It may be impossible to cordon the area off such that staff can still access the office and child access is prevented. Adequate alternate napping arrangements will also have to be considered. Manager will attend meeting next week and then provide CCFL with updates. We will discuss options once more is known about the work and timelines.

Maintenance of Equipment: A log is kept of all inspections, maintenance and repairs. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

Observation. Even though CCFL has viewed playground inspection checklists in use in the past, today the Manager confirmed the practice of recording the daily inspection has lapsed. Manager committed to following up on this and will submit a copy of their daily inspection checklist by the required due date. See above.

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. Reviewed the fire drill log kept in binder. At the time of inspection, manager confirmed that they had forgotten to record the latest emergency plan drill (aka earthquake drill). Suggested using the Centre Record of Emergency Drill template to help with remembering to record all drills. Manager said she would consider this.

All indoor and outdoor play materials and equipment accessible to children are suitable for the age and development of the children, safely constructed, free from hazards and in good repair. [CCLR Sec. 16(4)]

Observation. Outdoors The Manager and staff team are thorough in their inspections of the outdoor play equipment. They have identified items requiring repair and or replacement. See the list below. The outdoor play yard is aging and offers limited play value for the range of developmental needs. Manager and I spoke of the need for a playground re-visioning within the next 2-3 years.