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Child care center 

Creative Center

3020 East Cactus Road, Phoenix, AZ 850324.5· 35 reviews
licensed capacity
98
open each week
5 days
a week, county median
$270

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Licensed by the stateInspection record

About

About Creative Center

Creative Center is a licensed child care center in Phoenix, Arizona. It is licensed by the state, for up to 98 children.

It is open Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It describes a Play-based approach, with after-school care, before-school care, infant care and pre-k. It says it provides meals.

Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Child Care Licensing made 9 visits in the last 3 years and cited 51 rules across 6 of them. The visit list, in the state's words, is below.

InfantsPreschool / pre-KBefore- and after-schoolSummer campMeals provided
Ask when you call: rates, current openings, staff-to-child ratio and whether it accepts child care subsidies.
Type
Child care center
Ages
Six weeks old to thirteen years old
Hours today
Closed today
Licensed capacity
98 children

Hours

Hours

Monday6:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Tuesday6:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Wednesday6:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Thursday6:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Friday6:30 AM to 6:00 PM
SaturdayNot listed
SundayTodayNot listed
Hours it lists: “Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM”

Programs

Programs and care

AgesSix weeks old to thirteen years old
ProgramsAfter-school care, before-school care, infant care, pre-k, preschool, summer camp and toddler care
ApproachPlay-based
EnrichmentCooking, gardening, yoga, Spanish, STEM and music
StaffLong-tenured educators with ongoing training
Daily lifeMeals provided; Snacks provided
TransportationTransportation (transportation to and from PVUSD elementary schools)
Parent updatesParent app (ProCare)
MoreFounded 1961
Licensed capacity98 childrenFrom the state license
A daycare without an item may still offer it; ask.

Cost

Tuition and costs

Creative Center has not listed its tuition. For comparison, full-time infant care at a child care center in Maricopa County has a median price of $270 a week (U.S. Department of Labor, 2022).

Ask the daycare for its ratesIt has not listed its tuition. The county medians below are a starting point.
Maricopa County medians, full time, per week

Infant

Center$270
Home daycare$180

Toddler

Center$210
Home daycare$171

Preschool

Center$210
Home daycare$171

School age

Center$175
Home daycare$150

County median full-time prices at centers and home daycares, U.S. Department of Labor, National Database of Childcare Prices, 2022 (the latest year). Not this daycare's rates; prices have risen since.

State record

Inspection reports for Creative Center

License

Status
Licensed and operating
License type
Licensed Child Care Center
Capacity
98 children
License number
#CDC-6138
See the state's record

Summary

9 visits in the last 3 years · Last visit Apr 1, 2026: 10 rules cited

Rules cited on 6 of 9 visits · 51 rules in all

  • Health, medication and illness 10
  • Safety and hazards 9
  • Building, equipment and play areas 9
  • Records and paperwork 5
  • Supervision and ratios 5
  • Discipline and child guidance 4
  • Transportation 3
  • Staff training and qualifications 2
  • Background checks 2
  • Food and nutrition 1
  • Other rules 1

For comparison: 96% of Arizona daycares had at least one rule cited in the last 3 years; the typical daycare had 12.

A cited rule is what an inspector found on the day of a visit. It is not a rating of the daycare today.

Own this daycare? Add your response to the state record

See all 9 visits
  1. Apr 1, 2026Inspection10 rules cited
    • Transportation

      AAC R9-5-517.A.9. A. A licensee who transports an enrolled child in a motor vehicle that the licensee owns, or acquires for use by contract, shall: 9. Ensure that the motor vehicle has: a. A working mechanical heating system capable of maintaining a temperature throughout the motor vehicle of at least 60° F when outside air temperatures are below 60° F; b. Except as provided in subsection (E), a working air-conditioning system capable of maintaining a temperature throughout the motor vehicle at or below 86° F when outside air temperatures are above 86° F; c. Except as provided in subsection (F), a first aid kit that meets the requirements of R9-5-514(A); d. Two large, clean towels or blankets; and e. Sufficient drinking water available to meet the needs of each enrolled child in the motor vehicle and sufficient cups or other drinking receptacles so that each enrolled child can drink from a different cup or receptacle;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer’s observation, the school van lacked two blankets or towels and accessible water for enrolled children.”
    • Staff training and qualifications

      AAC R9-5-401.1. A licensee shall ensure that staff members meet the following qualifications for employment or volunteer service at a facility: 1. A facility director is 21 years of age or older and provides the licensee with documentation of one of the following: a. At least 24 months of child care experience, a high school or high school equivalency diploma, and: i. Six credit hours or more in early childhood, child development, or a closely-related field from an accredited college or university; or ii. At least 60 actual hours of instruction, provided in conferences, seminars, lectures, or workshops in early childhood, child development, or a closely-related field, and an additional 12 hours of instruction, provided in conferences, seminars, lectures, or workshops in the area of program administration, planning, development, or management; b. At least 18 months of child care experience and: i. An N.A.C., C.D.A., or C.C.P. credential; or ii. At least 24 credit hours from an accredited college or university, including at least six credit hours in early childhood, child development, or a closely-related field; c. At least six months of child care experience and an associate degree from an accredited college or university in early childhood, child development, or a closely-related field; or d. At least three months of child care experience and a bachelor degree from an accredited college or university in early childhood, child development, or a closely-related field;

      “Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer’s observation, Staff #2 was acting in the capacity of the facility director while the file for Staff #2 lacked documentation to qualify Staff #2 as the director.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-309.C. C. A licensee shall maintain on facility premises: 1. A current fire inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the fire inspection report; and 2. If there are gas pipes that run from a gas meter to an appliance or location on the facility premises, a current gas inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the gas inspection report.

      “Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's observation, the facility lacked a current gas inspection report. The gas inspection provided expired 3/24/2026.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-305.A. A. A licensee shall not permit an enrolled child to attend a facility until the facility receives: 1. An immunization record for the enrolled child with the information required in 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 7, documenting that the enrolled child has received all current, age-appropriate immunizations required under 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 7: a. Provided by a healthcare provider, or b. Generated from the Arizona State Immunization Information System, which is the Department’s child immunization reporting system established in A.R.S. § 36-135; or 2. An exemption affidavit for the enrolled child provided by the enrolled child’s parent that contains a statement, signed by the enrolled child's: a. Health care provider, that the immunizations required by 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 7 would endanger the enrolled child’s health or medical condition; or b. Parent, that the enrolled child is being raised in a religion whose teachings are in opposition to immunization.

      “Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's observation, the files for Child #1 and Child #2 lacked a copy of the enrolled child's immunization records.”
    • Background checks

      AAC R9-5-203.G. G. As required by A.R.S. § 8-804, before an individual’s starting date of employment or volunteer service, a licensee shall comply with the submission requirements in A.R.S. § 8-804(C) for the individual.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and facility documentation, the file for Staff #1 lacked the results for the DCS background check.”
    • Records and paperwork

      AAC R9-5-402.A. A. A licensee shall maintain a file for each staff member containing: 1. The staff member’s name, date of birth, home address, and telephone number; 2. The staff member’s starting date of employment or volunteer service; 3. The staff member’s ending date of employment or volunteer service, if applicable; 4. The name and telephone number of an individual to be notified in case of an emergency; 5. The staff member’s written statement attesting to current immunity against measles, rubella, diphtheria, mumps, and pertussis; 6. The form required in A.R.S. § 36-883.02(C); 7. Documents required by R9-5-203; 8. Documents required by R9-5-301; 9. Documents required by R9-5-401, if applicable; 10. If applicable: a. The form required in A.R.S. § 8-804(I), b. Documentation of the submission required in A.R.S. § 8-804 and the information received as a result of the submission, and c. Documentation of training provided by a licensee as required by R9-5-403, if applicable; 11. A copy of any current license or certification required by A.R.S. Title 36, Chapter 7.1, Article 1. or this Chapter; and 12. Documentation of the requirements in A.R.S. § 36-883.02(D).

      “Finding: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's observation, the files for Staff #1, Staff #3, and Staff #4 lacked a copy of the education requirements required for a child educator. *Reference R9-5-401.3.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-603.B. B. Except as provided in subsection (D) a licensee shall ensure that an outdoor activity area: 1. Is enclosed by a fence: a. A minimum of 4 feet high; b. Secured to the ground; and c. With either vertical or horizontal open spaces on the fence or gate that do not exceed 4.0 inches; 2. Is maintained free from hazards, such as exposed concrete footings and broken toys; and 3. Has gates that are kept closed while an enrolled child is in the outdoor activity area

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, on the large playground, there were several planks of wood on the large red climber that were loose and unsteady.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-603.D. D. A licensee shall ensure that the following is provided and maintained within the fall zones of swings and climbing equipment in an outdoor activity area: 1. A shock-absorbing unitary surfacing material manufactured for such use in outdoor activity areas; or 2. A minimum depth of 6 inches of a non-hazardous, resilient material such as fine loose sand or wood chips.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer’s observation, in the large playground, the fall zones under the stairs of both climbers and the green tube lacked 4-inches of the required 6-inches of wood chip resilient surfacing.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-301.F. F. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member submits, on or before the starting date of employment or volunteer services, a completed self-screening form in a Department-provided format for tuberculosis screening purposes and follow recommendations for further tuberculosis testing, as applicable.

      “Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's observation, the file for Staff #1, Staff #3, and Staff #4 lacked a copy of the self-screening tuberculosis form or a negative tuberculosis test.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-503.A.1. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains: 1. A nonabsorbent, sanitizable diaper changing surface that is: a. Seamless and smooth, and b. Kept clear of items not required for diaper changing;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer’s observation, in the Infant Room, there was a bin and key on the diaper changing table.”
  2. Mar 24, 2026Complaint investigation3 rules cited
    • Other rules

      AAC R9-5-501.A.1. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 1. In addition to complying with the requirements in this Chapter, the health, safety, or welfare of an enrolled child is not placed at risk of harm;

      “Per Allegation Findings: Based on facility documentation and staff statement, the health, safety, and welfare of an enrolled child was placed at risk of harm when an enrolled child was left alone in a school van. On February 19. 2026, the facility sent vans to pick up enrolled children from school. When one van returned, the staff member driving the van signed in the enrolled children on the roster for the facility, including the presence of Child #1. However, when the children exited the vehicle, Child #1 was left alone, asleep, on the school van. Staff #1 heard a car alarm and ran to the front of the building to find Child #1 exiting the vehicle, with a red face and visibly upset. Staff #1 took Child #1 into the office to give (them) water and performed a wellness check for overheating. Shortly after, the child went out to the playground to play.”
    • Supervision and ratios

      AAC R9-5-404.A. A. A licensee shall ensure that at least the following staff-to-children ratios are maintained at all times when providing child care services to enrolled children: Age Group/Staff: Children - Infants/1:5 or 2:11; 1-year-old children/1:6 or 2:13; 2-year-old children/1:8; 3-year-old children/1:13; 4-year-old children/1:15; 5-year-old children not school-age/1:20; School-age children/1:20

      “Per Allegation Findings: Based on staff statement, the staff-to-children ratio was 0:1 when a child was left alone, asleep, in the school van. Staff stated the following: *It was very brief that the child was on the van asleep. *The van alarm was going off, (child) opened (the van) and ran out. As soon as I saw (child) I let (staff) know right away. *When (staff) received the children, (they) realized (they were) missing one. *I did not know how many children I was expecting when the bus arrived.”
    • Supervision and ratios

      AAC R9-5-501.B.1. B. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member: 1. Supervises each enrolled child at all times;

      “Per Allegation Findings: Based on facility documentation and staff statement, enrolled children were not supervised at all times when a child was left alone, unsupervised on a school van. Facility documentation indicated the following: *"(Child) fell asleep on the van and (they) did not follow the other kids and the teachers out of the van." *"(Child) came out in short time and (they) were received by (staff)." Staff stated the following: *I did not know how many children I was expecting when the bus arrived. *(Child) probably walked (themself) from the van to the playground. *(They were) just red and asking 'why did you guys leave me?'.”
  3. Feb 6, 2026InspectionNo rules cited
  4. Jan 6, 2026Complaint investigation3 rules cited
    • Transportation

      AAC R9-5-517.A.1. A. A licensee who transports an enrolled child in a motor vehicle that the licensee owns, or acquires for use by contract, shall: 1. Obtain dated, written permission from the enrolled child’s parent before the licensee transports the enrolled child;

      “Per Allegation Findings: Based on facility documentation, staff statement, and the Compliance Officers' observations, the facility had written authorization to pick up and drop off children from elementary school, however, the facility did not follow the children's elementary school hours. Staff stated the following: *I was lost with the children, there was lots of construction and the school was moved locations temporarily. *This made me late to the other schools. *The children were late to school. *(Child) was on the van for longer that day, probably from 2:45 to 4pm. Based on facility documentation, the facility lacked a complete written permission form to transport the following enrolled children: *Child #1, Child #3, and Child #4: The form lacked an end date, Time to be dropped off and/or picked up. *Child #2: Time to be dropped off and/or picked up.”
    • Supervision and ratios

      AAC R9-5-306.B. B. A licensee shall: 1. Develop, document, and implement policies and procedures to ensure that a staff member maintains daily documentation of the presence of an enrolled child in an activity area that includes a method to account for any temporary absences of the enrolled child from the activity area, and 2. Maintain the documentation of the presence of enrolled children in an activity area required in subsection (B)(1) on facility premises for 12 months after the date of the documentation.

      “Per Allegation Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, in the Preschool Room, the facility lacked a roster to document the presence of the six enrolled children.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-603.E. E. A licensee shall ensure that hard surfacing material such as asphalt or concrete is not installed or used under swings or climbing equipment unless used as a base for a rubber surfacing.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, in the Toddler Playground, there was a climber sitting on a pad of turf that was laid over concrete.”
  5. Sep 12, 2025InspectionNo rules cited
  6. Aug 14, 2025Complaint investigation8 rules cited
    • Food and nutrition

      AAC R9-5-501.A.3. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 3. For enrolled infants and children five-years or younger, drinking water is available to meet the needs of each enrolled child;

      “Per allegation findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that drinking water was not available to the enrolled children on the playground.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-605.B.6. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 6. Except for a room used only for an enrolled school-age child, each unused electrical outlet is covered with a safety plug cover or insert;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that there was an uncovered outlet by the door in the 3's/4's classroom.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-603.B. B. Except as provided in subsection (D) a licensee shall ensure that an outdoor activity area: 1. Is enclosed by a fence: a. A minimum of 4 feet high; b. Secured to the ground; and c. With either vertical or horizontal open spaces on the fence or gate that do not exceed 4.0 inches; 2. Is maintained free from hazards, such as exposed concrete footings and broken toys; and 3. Has gates that are kept closed while an enrolled child is in the outdoor activity area

      “Per allegation findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations it was determined that the following hazards were accessible to the enrolled children on the playground: *There was splintering wood along the south side of the border enclosing the swing sett. *The wooden shade structure around the swing set was wobbly and not secure.”
    • Supervision and ratios

      AAC R9-5-404.A. A. A licensee shall ensure that at least the following staff-to-children ratios are maintained at all times when providing child care services to enrolled children: Age Group/Staff: Children - Infants/1:5 or 2:11; 1-year-old children/1:6 or 2:13; 2-year-old children/1:8; 3-year-old children/1:13; 4-year-old children/1:15; 5-year-old children not school-age/1:20; School-age children/1:20

      “Per allegation findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and information provided by the staff at the time of the inspection, it was determined that ratios are not maintained at all times. Staff stated the following: "I have been out of ratio a few times." "I have been out of ratio in the summer." "I let the office know and they send someone."”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-601.4. A licensee shall comply with the following physical plant requirements, as applicable: 4. Except as provided in subsection (5), when providing child care services for infants or children who require diapering, a diaper changing area that meets the requirements in R9-5-503 is available in each infant room or indoor activity area used by an enrolled infant or child who wears diapers or disposable training pants;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that on 8/11/2025 a two-year-old child who was in a diaper was taken to the 3's/4's classroom for a few hours. The 3's/4's classroom is not licensed for diapering.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-512.F.1. F. A licensee shall ensure that: 1. Each toilet room in a facility contains, within easy reach of enrolled children: a. Mounted toilet tissue; and b. Except as provided in subsection (G): i. A sink with running water; ii. Soap contained in a dispenser; and iii. Disposable, single-use paper towels in a mounted dispenser, or a mechanical air hand dryer;

      “Per allegation findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there was no soap in the 3's/4's and School-age restroom hand-washing sink. Additionally, there was no paper towels in the dispenser in the 3's/4's restroom hand-washing sink.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-501.A.20. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 20. Except when used as part of an activity, the following are stored in an area inaccessible to an enrolled child: a. Garden tools, such as a rake, trowel, and shovel; and b. Cleaning equipment and supplies, such as a mop and mop bucket.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there was a mop bucket and a vacuum accessible to the enrolled children in the School-age classroom.”
    • Supervision and ratios

      AAC R9-5-404.E. E. In addition to maintaining the required staff-to-children ratios, a licensee shall ensure that: 1. Staff members are present on facility premises to perform facility administration, food preparation, food service, and maintenance responsibilities; and 2. Facility maintenance does not depend on the work of enrolled children.

      “Per allegation findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and information provided by the staff at the time of the inspection it was determined that there was not adequate staff to perform facility administration and food preparation. Upon the Compliance Officers' arrival at the facility, the director was in ratio in a classroom along with another staff member. There was no additional staff on the facility premises to perform facility administration. The director stated that a staff member had gone to the grocery store to pick up some items for lunch.”
  7. Apr 4, 2025Inspection18 rules cited
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-301.F. F. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member submits, on or before the starting date of employment or volunteer services, one of the following as evidence of freedom from infectious active tuberculosis: 1. Documentation of a negative Mantoux skin test or other tuberculosis screening test recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, administered within 12 months before the starting date of employment or volunteer service, that includes the date and the type of tuberculosis screening test; or 2. If the staff member has had a positive Mantoux skin test or other tuberculosis screening test, a written statement that the staff member is free from infectious active tuberculosis that is signed and dated by a health care provider within six months before the starting date of employment or volunteer service.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the negative Mantoux TB test for Staff #1 (start date: 3/10/2025) was read on 3/16/2025.”
    • Records and paperwork

      AAC R9-5-303.A. A. A licensee shall post in a place that can be conspicuously viewed by individuals entering or leaving the facility or activity area, the:1. Facility’s license; 2. Name of the facility director; 3. Name of the individual designated to act on behalf of the facility director when the facility director is not present in the facility, as prescribed by R9-5-301(B)(1); 4. Schedule of child care services fees and policy for refunding fees as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-882(P); 5. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack menus for each calendar week at the beginning of the calendar week; 6. Notice of the presence of any communicable disease or infestation listed in 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 2, Table 2, from the date of discovery through the incubation period of the communicable disease or infestation; 7. Notice of the Department’s intent to deny, revoke, or suspend as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-888 at the expiration of time in the notice for the licensee to respond; 8. Notice of an intermediate sanction imposed as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-891.01 within 10 calendar days after the licensee received notice of the intermediate sanction; 9. Notice of a legal injunction imposed as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-886.01 when the licensee receives the legal injunction; and 10. Notice of the availability of facility inspection reports for public viewing at the facility premises.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the menu posted on the main posting board was dated for the week of 3/24/2025.”
    • Records and paperwork

      AAC R9-5-306.A. A. A licensee shall maintain a dated attendance form containing an enrolled child’s name with the time of each admission and release of the enrolled child. 1. Except as provided in subsection (A)(2), a licensee shall ensure that the attendance form is signed with at least a first initial of an individual’s first name and the individual’s last name by each enrolled child’s parent or individual designated by the enrolled child’s parent, each time the enrolled child is admitted or released. 2. An electronic fingerprint verification or an electronic signature may be used in place of a signature of the enrolled child’s parent or designated individual to admit or release the enrolled child. 3. If an electronic signature is used to admit or release the enrolled child, the licensee shall adopt policies and procedures to ensure that the individual whose signature the electronic or digital method of identification represents is accountable for the use of the electronic or digital method; 4. A licensee shall develop, document, and implement policies and procedures to ensure that the identity of an individual is known to the staff member or is verified with picture identification before releasing an enrolled child to the individual. 5. A licensee shall not release the enrolled child to an individual other than the enrolled child’s parent or other individual designated in writing by the enrolled child’s parent except when the enrolled child’s parent is unable to collect the enrolled child and authorizes the licensee by telephone to release the enrolled child to an individual not so designated. a. The licensee shall verify the telephone authorization using a means of verification that has been agreed upon between the licensee and the enrolled child’s parent at the time of enrollment. b. The licensee shall document the means of verification in subsection (A)(5)(a) on the enrolled child’s Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record card. 6. A licensee shall not permit the self-admission or self-release of an enrolled child unless the enrolled child is of school age and the licensee has obtained and verified written permission from the enrolled child’s parent. 7. A licensee shall maintain the attendance form on facility premises for 12 months after the date of attendance.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that 11 of 20 reviewed attendance forms were incomplete and lacked the following required information: Child #1, Child #3, Child #4, Child #5, Child #6 and Child #10: An admission time and signature for 4/3/2025. Child #2: A release time and signature for 4/3/2025. Child #7, Child #9 and Child #11: An admission time and signature for 4/2/2025 and 4/3/2025. Child #8: A release time and signature for 4/2/2025 and 4/3/2025.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-309.C. C. A licensee shall maintain on facility premises: 1. A current fire inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the fire inspection report; and 2. If there are gas pipes that run from a gas meter to an appliance or location on the facility premises, a current gas inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the gas inspection report.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the facility lacked a current fire inspection. The fire inspection expired on 10/31/2024.”
    • Staff training and qualifications

      AAC R9-5-403.C. C. A licensee shall ensure that documentation of a staff member's completion of training required by subsection (A) is signed by the facility director and dated.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the new hire training for Staff #1(start date: 3/10/2025) was not signed by the facility director.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-501.A.12. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 12. The facility premises, including the buildings, are maintained free from hazards;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that there were holes in the wall on the west side of the School-age classroom. The facility staff stated that it was water damage.”
    • Discipline and child guidance

      AAC R9-5-501.C.4. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:4. Except as provided in subsection (D), prepares and posts in each indoor activity area, a current schedule of children’s age-appropriate activities, including the times the following are provided: a. Meals and snacks; b. Naps; c. Indoor activities; d. Outdoor or large muscle development activities; e. Quiet and active activities; f. Teacher-directed activities; g. Self-directed activities; h. Activities for individuals, groups of five or fewer children, and groups of six or more children; and i. Activities that develop small muscles;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the schedule was not posted in the School-age classroom.”
    • Discipline and child guidance

      AAC R9-5-501.C.5. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:5. Except as provided in subsection (D), prepares and posts a dated lesson plan in each indoor activity area for each calendar week, which is maintained on facility premises for 12 months after the lesson plan date and provides opportunities for each child to: a. Gain a positive self-concept; b. Develop and practice social skills; c. Think, reason, question, and experiment; d. Acquire language skills; e. Develop physical coordination skills; f. Participate in structured large muscle physical activity; g. Develop habits that meet health, safety, and nutritional needs; h. Express creativity; i. Learn to respect cultural diversity of children and staff; j. Learn self-help skills; and k. Develop a sense of responsibility and independence;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the lesson plan was not posted in the 1's/2's classroom. Additionally, the lesson plan posted in the School-age classroom was dated for February 2025.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-512.G. G. A licensee may have a sink with running water, soap contained in a dispenser, and single-use paper towels in a mounted dispenser or a mechanical air hand dryer located directly outside a toilet room if an enrolled child exiting the toilet room can access the sink, soap, and paper towels or air hand dryer without having to cross space that is used for any activity.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that in the 3's classroom, the children had to cross the blocks area to be able to access the hand-washing sink after toileting.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-516.B.3. B. If prescription or nonprescription medications are administered, a licensee shall ensure that:3. A facility director, or a staff member designated in writing by the facility director, does not administer a medication to an enrolled child unless the facility receives written authorization signed by the enrolled child’s parent or health care provider that includes the: a. Name of the enrolled child; b. Type of the medication; c. Prescription number, if any; d. Instructions for administration specifying the: i. Dosage and route of administration; ii. If indicated, starting and ending dates of the dosage period; and iii. Times and frequency of administration; e. Reason for the medication; and f. Date of authorization; and

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that Child #17 lacked a medication consent form for the child's prescription medication.”
    • Transportation

      AAC R9-5-517.A.10. A. A licensee who transports an enrolled child in a motor vehicle that the licensee owns, or acquires for use by contract, shall:10. Ensure that the motor vehicle is: a. Maintained in a clean condition, b. In a mechanically safe condition, and c. Free from hazards; and

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that both the facility vehicles were dirty and had food wrappers and debris on the floor.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-603.C. C. Except as provided in subsection (D), a licensee shall ensure that an outdoor activity area:1. Is enclosed by a fence: a. A minimum of 4 feet high; b. Secured to the ground; and c. With either vertical or horizontal open spaces on the fence or gate that do not exceed 4.0 inches; 2. Is maintained free from hazards, such as exposed concrete footings and broken toys; and 3. Has gates that are kept closed while an enrolled child is in the outdoor activity area

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the following areas of the Pre-K playground were not maintained free from hazards that were accessible to the enrolled children: *There was peeling paint and rust on the post of the swing set. *There were screws protruding and there was deteriorating wood on the blue tire climbing structure.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-603.E. E. A licensee shall ensure that the following is provided and maintained within the fall zones of swings and climbing equipment in an outdoor activity area:1. A shock-absorbing unitary surfacing material manufactured for such use in outdoor activity areas; or 2. A minimum depth of 6 inches of a non-hazardous, resilient material such as fine loose sand or wood chips.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that there was 0" of the required 6" of resilient material around the fall zones of the slide on the toddler playground.”
    • Background checks

      ARS § 36-883.02.C. C. Applicants, licensees and child care personnel shall attest on forms that are provided by the department that:1. They are not awaiting trial on or have never been convicted of or admitted in open court or pursuant to a plea agreement committing any of the offenses listed in section 41-1758.07, subsection B in this state or similar offenses in another state or jurisdiction. 2. They are not parents or guardians of a child adjudicated to be a dependent child as defined in section 8-201. 3. They have not been denied or had revoked a certificate to operate a child care group home or a license to operate a child care facility in this or any other state or that they have not been denied or had revoked a certification to work in a child care facility or child care group home.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the file for Staff #2 lacked a criminal history affidavit.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-605.B.9. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 9. Fans are mounted and inaccessible to an enrolled child;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that there was a black fan that was not mounted and was accessible to the enrolled children in the School-age classroom.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-605.B.8. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 8. Heating and cooling equipment is inaccessible to an enrolled child;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that Air-conditioning unit was accessible to the enrolled children in the 1's/2's classroom.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-605.B.6. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 6. Except for a room used only for an enrolled school-age child, each unused electrical outlet is covered with a safety plug cover or insert;

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, it was determined that was an uncovered outlet on the west wall in the 3's classroom and 2 uncovered outlets on the north and east wall in the School-age classroom where 3 and 4-year-old children are present in the mornings.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-304.B. B. Except as required in A.R.S. § 36-3009, before an enrolled child receives child care services, a licensee shall require the enrolled child’s parent to complete a Department-provided Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record card that is signed by the enrolled child’s parent containing: 1. The child’s name, home address, city, state, zip code, home telephone number, sex, and date of birth; 2. The date of the child’s enrollment; 3. The name, home address, city, state, zip code, and contact telephone number of each parent of the child; 4. The name and contact telephone number of at least two individuals authorized by the child’s parent to collect the child from the facility in case of emergency, or if the child’s parent cannot be contacted; 5. The name and contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider; 6. The written authorization for emergency medical care of the enrolled child when the parent cannot be contacted at the time of the emergency; 7. The name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child; 8. The written instructions of a child’s parent or health care provider for nutritional and dietary needs of the child including, if applicable, the request in R9-5-509(C)(9); and 9. A written record completed by the child’s parent or health care provider noting the child’s susceptibility to illness, physical conditions of which a staff member should be aware, and any individual requirements for health maintenance.

      “Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that 10 of 25 reviewed Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record cards were incomplete and lacked the following required information: Child #4: The phone number of the child's parent. Child #6: The date of the child's enrollment, the name and phone number of the child's second parent and the name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child. Child #7: The date of the child's enrollment. Child #9: The phone number of the child's health care provider and the phone number of at least 2 emergency contacts. Child #12 and Child #13: The date of the child's enrollment and the name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child. Child #14: The phone number of the child's health care provider. Child #15 and Child #16: The date of the child's enrollment and the name and phone number of the child's second parent. Child #17: The date of the child's enrollment, the name and phone number of the child's second parent and the name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child.”
  8. May 2, 2024InspectionNo rules cited
  9. Apr 17, 2024Inspection9 rules cited
    • Records and paperwork

      AAC R9-5-306.A. A. A licensee shall maintain a dated attendance form containing an enrolled child’s name with the time of each admission and release of the enrolled child. 1. Except as provided in subsection (A)(2), a licensee shall ensure that the attendance form is signed with at least a first initial of an individual’s first name and the individual’s last name by each enrolled child’s parent or individual designated by the enrolled child’s parent, each time the enrolled child is admitted or released. 2. An electronic fingerprint verification or an electronic signature may be used in place of a signature of the enrolled child’s parent or designated individual to admit or release the enrolled child. 3. If an electronic signature is used to admit or release the enrolled child, the licensee shall adopt policies and procedures to ensure that the individual whose signature the electronic or digital method of identification represents is accountable for the use of the electronic or digital method; 4. A licensee shall develop, document, and implement policies and procedures to ensure that the identity of an individual is known to the staff member or is verified with picture identification before releasing an enrolled child to the individual. 5. A licensee shall not release the enrolled child to an individual other than the enrolled child’s parent or other individual designated in writing by the enrolled child’s parent except when the enrolled child’s parent is unable to collect the enrolled child and authorizes the licensee by telephone to release the enrolled child to an individual not so designated. a. The licensee shall verify the telephone authorization using a means of verification that has been agreed upon between the licensee and the enrolled child’s parent at the time of enrollment. b. The licensee shall document the means of verification in subsection (A)(5)(a) on the enrolled child’s Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record card. 6. A licensee shall not permit the self-admission or self-release of an enrolled child unless the enrolled child is of school age and the licensee has obtained and verified written permission from the enrolled child’s parent. 7. A licensee shall maintain the attendance form on facility premises for 12 months after the date of attendance.

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #1's observation and facility documentation, it was determined that 7 out of 25 attendance records reviewed were incomplete and lacked the following required information: Child #1 and Child #2: A release time and signature for 4/1/2024. Child #3: A release time and signature for 4/5/2024. Child #4: A release time and signature for 4/16/2024. Child #5: A release signature for 4/12/2024. Child #6: An admission time and signature for 4/16/2024. Child #7: A release time and signature for 4/12/2024.”
    • Records and paperwork

      AAC R9-5-306.B. B. A licensee shall: 1. Develop, document, and implement policies and procedures to ensure that a staff member maintains daily documentation of the presence of an enrolled child in an activity area that includes a method to account for any temporary absences of the enrolled child from the activity area, and 2. Maintain the documentation of the presence of enrolled children in an activity area required in subsection (B)(1) on facility premises for 12 months after the date of the documentation.

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #2's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that there was no roster on the playground to reflect the presence of 11 Preschool children. Further, the facility lacked a method to documentation of the temporary absence of a child from an activity area. Compliance Officer #1 witnessed a child coming into a classroom from the playground to use the restroom but that temporary absence was not documented by the staff.”
    • Discipline and child guidance

      AAC R9-5-501.C.4. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:4. Except as provided in subsection (D), prepares and posts in each indoor activity area, a current schedule of children’s age-appropriate activities, including the times the following are provided: a. Meals and snacks; b. Naps; c. Indoor activities; d. Outdoor or large muscle development activities; e. Quiet and active activities; f. Teacher-directed activities; g. Self-directed activities; h. Activities for individuals, groups of five or fewer children, and groups of six or more children; and i. Activities that develop small muscles;

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #2's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the schedule was not posted in the Preschool classroom.”
    • Discipline and child guidance

      AAC R9-5-501.C.5. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:5. Except as provided in subsection (D), prepares and posts a dated lesson plan in each indoor activity area for each calendar week, which is maintained on facility premises for 12 months after the lesson plan date and provides opportunities for each child to: a. Gain a positive self-concept; b. Develop and practice social skills; c. Think, reason, question, and experiment; d. Acquire language skills; e. Develop physical coordination skills; f. Participate in structured large muscle physical activity; g. Develop habits that meet health, safety, and nutritional needs; h. Express creativity; i. Learn to respect cultural diversity of children and staff; j. Learn self-help skills; and k. Develop a sense of responsibility and independence;

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #2's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that there was no lesson plan posted in the Preschool classroom. The lesson plan posted in the Pre-K classroom was dated for the week of 4/8/2024.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-516.B.3. B. If prescription or nonprescription medications are administered, a licensee shall ensure that:3. A facility director, or a staff member designated in writing by the facility director, does not administer a medication to an enrolled child unless the facility receives written authorization signed by the enrolled child’s parent or health care provider that includes the: a. Name of the enrolled child; b. Type of the medication; c. Prescription number, if any; d. Instructions for administration specifying the: i. Dosage and route of administration; ii. If indicated, starting and ending dates of the dosage period; and iii. Times and frequency of administration; e. Reason for the medication; and f. Date of authorization; and

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #1's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the Child #8 and Child #10 lacked a medication consent form.”
    • Health, medication and illness

      AAC R9-5-516.G. G. A licensee shall return all unused prescription and nonprescription medications to a parent when the medication prescription date has expired or the medication is no longer being administered to the enrolled child or dispose of the medication if unable to locate the enrolled child's parent after the child's disenrollment

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #2's observation and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the medication for Child #1 expired on 2/3/2023 and the medication for Child #9 expired on 3/8/2024.”
    • Building, equipment and play areas

      AAC R9-5-603.C. C. Except as provided in subsection (D), a licensee shall ensure that an outdoor activity area:1. Is enclosed by a fence: a. A minimum of 4 feet high; b. Secured to the ground; and c. With either vertical or horizontal open spaces on the fence or gate that do not exceed 4.0 inches; 2. Is maintained free from hazards, such as exposed concrete footings and broken toys; and 3. Has gates that are kept closed while an enrolled child is in the outdoor activity area

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #2's observation, it was determined that on the playground, there was splintering wood on the brown post and on the rock climbing play structure that were accessible to the enrolled children.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-605.B.5. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 5. Electrical extension cords are not used;

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #2's observation, it was determined that an extension cord was being used in the School Age classroom.”
    • Safety and hazards

      AAC R9-5-605.B.6. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 6. Except for a room used only for an enrolled school-age child, each unused electrical outlet is covered with a safety plug cover or insert;

      “Findings: Based on Compliance Officer #2's observation, it was determined that there were 2 uncovered outlets in the preschool classroom.”

Copied from Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Child Care Licensing on October 2, 2026; the state's records start around Sep 2023. Rule wording, severity and dates are the state's.

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FAQ

Questions about Creative Center

Is Creative Center licensed?

Yes. Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Child Care Licensing lists it as licensed and operating.

When was Creative Center last inspected?

Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Child Care Licensing lists the most recent visit on April 1, 2026, with 10 rules cited. It lists 9 visits in the last 3 years.

Has Creative Center had rules cited by the state?

Yes. Inspectors cited 51 rules across 6 of 9 visits in the last 3 years. For comparison: 96% of Arizona daycares had at least one rule cited in the last 3 years; the typical daycare had 12. A cited rule is what an inspector found on the day of a visit. It is not a rating of the daycare today.

How many children can Creative Center care for?

98, the licensed capacity on the state record.

What are Creative Center's hours?

Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Holiday hours can differ.

How much does Creative Center cost?

It has not listed its tuition. Call (602) 992-3640 to ask.

What is Creative Center's phone number?

(602) 992-3640.

Where is Creative Center?

3020 East Cactus Road, Phoenix, AZ 85032. The nearest other daycare we list is Global Minds Preschool, 0.4 miles away.

Sources: Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Child Care Licensing (license and visits) · U.S. Department of Labor, 2022 (county prices).