Little Ones Learning Center

AAC R9-5-209.2. A licensee shall: Notify the Department within 24 hours, prior to the next business day, of business closure; and

“Findings: Based on documentation and the Compliance Officers' observations, the licensee failed to notify the department of a temporary closure.”

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 statements and the Compliance Officer’s observation, the facility failed to maintain the staff-to-child ratio on 9-9-2025 of 1:6 with Infants, two-year-olds, and three-year-olds present. Staff Stated: *We were over ratio that day.”

AAC R9-5-203.C. C. Except as provided in A.R.S. § 41-1758.03, a licensee shall ensure that each staff member, before starting date of employment or volunteer service, submits to the licensee a copy of the staff member’s valid fingerprint clearance card,front and back, issued under A.R.S. Title 41, Chapter 12, Article 3.1.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer’s observation, the file for Staff #1 (Date of hire 7/3/2023) lacked documentation of a copy of a valid fingerprint card. The fingerprint clearance card was validated through the DPS website during the time of the inspection.”

AAC R9-5-512.F. 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; 2. Staff members wash their hands with soap and running water after toileting; 3. An enrolled child’s hands are washed with soap and running water after toileting; 4. Except for a cup or receptacle used only for water, food waste is stored in a covered container and the container is clean and lined with a plastic bag; 5. Food waste and other refuse is removed from the facility building at least once every 24 hours or more often as necessary to maintain a clean condition and avoid odors; 6. A staff member or an enrolled child does not draw water for human consumption from a toilet room handwashing sink; 7. Toys, materials, and equipment are maintained in a clean condition; 8. Plumbing fixtures are maintained in a clean and working condition; and 9. Chipped or cracked sinks and toilets are replaced or repaired.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's Supervisor and the Compliance Officer's observations, in the Toddler classroom, there was a 7-inch crack with exposed sharp edges on the diaper changing sink. There was a loose toilet seat on the second toilet in the restroom. There was a build-up on the faucet of the handwashing sink and in the toilet bowl.”

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 Officer’s Supervisor and Compliance Officer’s observations, in the outdoor activity area, the following hazards were accessible to enrolled children: Big Playground: *There were multiple screws protruding out of the West fence. *There was hard plastic with sharp edges protruding out, with a missing bar on the geo-dome climber. *The geo-dome climber was not secured to the ground. *There were multiple fence slats detached from the base. *There were multiple spots of rust on the fence between the playgrounds. Toddler Playground: *There was a cracked seat on the stationary bike. *There was rust on the stationary bike. *There was exposed concrete on the base of the North pole of the shade structure. *There was a detached slide on the small climber.”

AAC R9-5-512.C. C. A licensee shall ensure that floor coverings are:1. Clean; and 2. Free from: a. Dampness, b. Odors, and c. Hazards.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer’s observation, in the Toddler classroom, there was a cracked tile near the east door.”

AAC R9-5-509.A. A. A licensee that prepares food for enrolled children on facility premises shall, if required by 9 A.A.C. 8, Article 1, andthe local ordinances of the local health department where the facility is located, obtain a food establishment permit issued under 9 A.A.C. 8, Article 1, and: 1. Provide the Department with a copy of the facility’s food establishment permit before the Department issues a license to the facility, 2. Maintain the facility’s current food establishment permit on the facility’s premises, and 3 Provide a copy of the facility’s current food establishment permit to the Department upon request.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation, the Compliance Officer’s Supervisor and the Compliance Officer’s observation, the Licensee lacked documentation of a current Sanitation inspection report as required.”

AAC R9-5-502.C.1.l. C. A licensee shall ensure that:1. A staff member providing child care services in an infant room: l. Obtains written, current, and dated dietary instructions from a parent or health care provider regarding the method of feeding and types of foods to be prepared or fed to an infant at the facility;

“Findings: Based on facility documentation, the Compliance Officer's Supervisor and the Compliance Officer's observations, in the Infant room, the written dietary instructions for Child #9 lacked a schedule documenting when and how much to feed the Infant.”

AAC R9-5-501.C.9. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:9. Does the following when a parent permits or asks a staff member to apply personal products on an enrolled child, such as petroleum jelly, diaper rash ointments, sun screen or sun block preparations, toothpaste, and baby diapering preparations: a. Obtains the enrolled child’s personal products from the enrolled child’s parent or, if the licensee provides the personal products for use by the enrolled child, obtains written approval for use of the products from the enrolled child’s parent; b. Labels the personal products with the enrolled child’s name; and c. Keeps the personal products inaccessible to enrolled children;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's Supervisors' observation, in the Infant room, there was 1 diaper cream that lacked the enrolled child's first and last name.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.21. A. A licensee shall ensure that:21. 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 Officer’s Supervisor and Compliance Officer’s observations, in the outside area, there was a water hose stretched out on the ground in the grass area.”

AAC R9-5-514. D. D. A licensee shall post, near an activity area or a room's designated exit, a building evacuation plan that details the designated exits from the activity area or room and the facility.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer’s Supervisors' observation, the School-age classroom lacked a posted building evacuation plan that details the designated exits from the activity area and the facility.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.19. A. A licensee shall ensure that:19. Except as provided in subsection (A)(20), the following are stored separate from food storage areas and are inaccessible to an enrolled child: a. All materials and chemicals labeled as a toxic or flammable substance; b. All substances that have a child warning label and may be a hazard to a child; and c. Lawn mowers, ladders, toilet brushes, plungers, and other facility equipment that may be a hazard to a child;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer’s Supervisors' observation, in the Toddler's classroom, there was a toilet bowl cleaner, 2 febreze containers, and 1 disinfectant spray bottle in a cabinet under the diaper changing sink accessible to enrolled children.”

AAC R9-5-403.B. B. A licensee shall ensure that:1. Each staff member who provides child care services completes 18 or more actual hours of training every 12 months after the effective date of this Chapter or the staff member’s starting date of employment or volunteer service in at least two topics listed in this subsection: a. Child growth and development, including: i. Infant growth and development, which may include sudden infant death syndrome prevention; ii. Developmental psychology; iii. Language development; iv. Observation and child assessment; v. Developmentally-appropriate activities; vi. Child guidance and methods of discipline which may include training on the appropriate techniques to prevent a child from harm or to prevent the child from harming others; and vii. Developmentally-appropriate activity areas; b. Health and safety issues, including: i. Accident and emergency procedures, including CPR and first aid for infants and children; ii. Recognition of signs of illness and infestation; iii. Nutrition and developmentally-appropriate eating habits; iv. Child abuse detection, reporting, and prevention; v. Safety of indoor and outdoor activity areas; and vi. Sun safety policies and procedures; c. Program administration, planning, development, or management; and d. Availability of community services and resources, including those available to children with special needs; and 2. As part of the required 18 hours of training in subsection (B)(1): a. A staff member who has less than 12 months of child care experience before the staff member’s starting date, completes at least 12 hours in one or more of the topics in subsection (B)(1)(a) in the staff member’s first 12 months at the facility; b. A staff member who has 12 months or more of child care experience, completes at least 6 hours in one or more of the topics in subsection (B)(1)(a) every 12 months after the staff member’s starting date; c. A staff member who provides child care services to an infant completes at least 6 hours in subsection (B)(1)(a)(i) every 12 months after the staff member’s starting date; and d. A facility director completes at least 6 hours in subsection (B)(1)(c) every 12 months after the facility director’s starting date.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer’s observation, it was determined that 1 out of 2 staff files reviewed lacked the required training documentation: Staff #1: (Date of hire, 7/3/2023) An additional 4 hours of Infant care and 6 hours of annual trainings for the time period of 7/3/2023-7/3/2024.”

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 facility documentation and the Compliance Officer’s Supervisors' observation, it was determined that 1 out of 4 enrolled children's attendance forms lacked the following information: Child #1: An admission time, release time, and release signature for 5/1/2025, 5/2/2025, 5/5/2025, 5/6/2025, 5/7/2025, and 5/8/2025.”

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 facility documentation and the Compliance Officer’s Supervisors' observation, it was determined that 8 out of 10 enrolled children's Emergency, Information and Immunization Record cards reviewed lacked the following required information: Child #1: The date of the child’s enrollment. The contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider. The name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child. Child #2: The date of the child’s enrollment. The name and contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider. The name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child. Child #3: The date of the child’s enrollment. The name, home address, city, state, zip code, and contact telephone number of a second parent of the child. Child #4, Child #5, Child #6 and Child #8: The date of the child’s enrollment. Child #7: The date of the child’s enrollment. The contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider.”

AAC R9-5-301.I. I. At least once a month, and at different times of the day, a licensee shall ensure that an unannounced fire and emergency evacuation drill is conducted and each staff member and enrolled child at the facility participates in the fire and emergency evacuation drill. 1. If child care services for a child with special needs are provided at a facility, the licensee shall provide for the enrolled child’s participation in each fire and emergency evacuation drill according to the enrolled child’s individualized plan as specified in R9-5-507(A)(1). 2. A licensee shall document each fire and emergency evacuation drill and maintain the documentation on facility premises for 12 months after the date of the fire and emergency evacuation drill.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation, the Compliance Officer’s Supervisor and the Compliance Officer’s observations, the fire drill log was pre-filled out for the entire year of 2025.”

AAC R9-5-203.E. E. If a staff member possesses a fingerprint clearance card that was issued before the staff member became a staff member at the facility, a licensee shall:1. Contact the Department of Public Safety before the individual becomes a staff member to determine whether the fingerprint clearance card is valid; and 2. Document this determination, including the name of the staff member, the date of contact with the Department of Public Safety, and whether the fingerprint clearance card is valid.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's observation, the file for Staff #1 (Date of hire 7/3/2023) lacked documentation of a validated fingerprint clearance card. The fingerprint clearance card was validated through the DPS website during the time of the inspection.”

AAC R9-5-203.A. A. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member completes, signs, dates, and submits to the licensee, before the staff member’s starting date of employment or volunteer service:1. The form required in A.R.S. § 36-883.02(C); and 2. If required by A.R.S. § 8-804, the form in A.R.S. § 8-804(I).

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and Compliance Officer #2’s observation, the file for Staff #1 lacked documentation of the DCS Registry. The file for Staff #2 lacked documentation of the submitted DCS Registry form. Reference 203.G Previously cited: 5/21/2024 and 5/24/2022”

AAC R9-5-203.E. E. If a staff member possesses a fingerprint clearance card that was issued before the staff member became a staff member at the facility, a licensee shall:1. Contact the Department of Public Safety before the individual becomes a staff member to determine whether the fingerprint clearance card is valid; and 2. Document this determination, including the name of the staff member, the date of contact with the Department of Public Safety, and whether the fingerprint clearance card is valid.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and Compliance Officer #2's observation: Staff #1 and Staff #2's fingerprint clearance cards were not verified prior to becoming a staff member.”

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 facility documentation and the Compliance Officers' observation, it was determined that 11 out of 13 enrolled children's Emergency, Information and Immunization Record cards reviewed lacked the following required information: Child #1:The date of enrollment, the health care provider's telephone number, and the name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child. Child #2:The date of enrollment, the health care provider's name and telephone number, and the name of the individual to be contacted in case of injury or sudden illness of the child. Child #3 and Child #5: The health care provider's name and telephone number. Child #4: The health care provider's telephone number. Child #6, Child #7, Child #8, Child #9, Child #10, and Child #11: The date of enrollment. Previously cited: 5/21/2024, 5/24/2023, and 5/24/2022”

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. A statement, signed by the enrolled child’s 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. A statement, signed by the enrolled child’s 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 Officers' observations, Child #1 and Child #2 lacked a written immunization record.”

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).

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and Compliance Officer #2's observation, the following staff files lacked the following documentation: Staff #1: A written statement attesting to current immunity against measles, rubella, diphtheria, mumps, and pertussis as required and 2 good-faith effort professional references. Staff #2 and Staff #3: 2 good-faith effort professional references. Previously cited: 5/21/2024, 5/24/2022”

AAC R9-5-403.A. A. Within 10 calendar days of the starting date of employment or volunteer service, a licensee shall provide, and each staff member who provides child care services shall complete, training for new staff members that includes all of the following:1. Facility philosophy and goals; 2. Names and ages of and developmental expectations for enrolled children for whom the staff member will provide child care services; 3. Health needs, nutritional requirements, any known allergies, and information about adaptive devices of enrolled children for whom the staff member will provide child care services; 4. Lesson plans; 5. Child guidance and methods of discipline; 6. Hand washing techniques; 7. Diapering techniques and toileting, if assigned to diaper changing duties; 8. Food preparation, service, sanitation, and storage, if assigned to food preparation; 9. If a staff member is assigned to feeding infants, the preparation, handling, and storage of infant formula and breast milk; 10. Recognition of signs of illness and infestation; 11. Child abuse or neglect detection, prevention, and reporting; 12. Accident and emergency procedures; 13. Staff responsibilities as required by A.R.S. Title 36, Chapter 7.1, Article 1 and this Chapter; 14. Sun safety policies and procedures; 15. Safety in outdoor activity areas; 16. Transportation procedures, if applicable; and 17. Field trip procedures, if applicable.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and Compliance Officer #2’s observation, the file for Staff #1 lacked documentation for the 10-day training for new staff members. (Start date-7/3/2023). The file for Staff #2 lacked documentation for the 10-day training for new staff members. (Start date-6/9/2006). The file for Staff #3 lacked documentation for the 10-day training for new staff members. (Start date-8/28/2001). Previously cited: 5/21/2024 and 5/24/2022”

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;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, the health, safety and welfare of enrolled children was placed at risk of harm. In the School-Age restroom, there was a 3-inch piece of fiberglass insulation from the ceiling stuck to the West wall.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.9. A. A licensee shall ensure that:9. If a staff member places an enrolled child in a feeding chair when feeding the enrolled child: a. The feeding chair is constructed to prevent toppling; b. The tray or feeding surface of the feeding chair is smooth and free of cracks; and c. The staff member: i Cleans the feeding chair before and after each enrolled child’s use; ii. Sanitizes the tray or feeding surface before and after each enrolled child’s use; and iii. If the feeding chair was manufactured with a safety strap, fastens the feeding chair’s safety strap while the enrolled child is in the feeding chair;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, in the 3's classroom, the 2 highchairs had a brown build-up on the insides of the chairs and the trays. There were multiple chips and scratches on the trays of the 2 highchairs.”

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 Officers' observations, the following hazards were accessible to enrolled children: *There were 14 cracked or missing ceiling pieces throughout the facility. Infant room: *There was peeling contact paper with exposed particle board on the bottom of the white cabinet in the Southeast corner. *There was peeling paint in multiple areas with exposed metal on the low windowsills. *There were chunks of exposed drywall around the electrical socket on the West wall. *There was a cracked electrical outlet cover with exposed sharp edges on the North wall next to a crib. 3’s Classroom: *There was peeling laminate with exposed drywall particle board on the West counter. School-Age: *There was cracked plastic on the light switch in the restroom. *There was peeling plaster in 3 areas on the West wall. *There was rust on the floor near the self by the South exit door. *There was a piece of metal sticking out 1-inch on the lower part of the pillar. *There was peeling laminate with exposed particle board on the East side of the counter. *There was a loose toilet seat in the School-Age restroom. *The restroom door handle was loose. *There were sharp edges on the West side of the 1st sink.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.21. A. A licensee shall ensure that:21. 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, there were 2 mop buckets and a mop in the hallway next to the playground exit door. There was a broom, mop and mop head outside of the playground exit door.”

AAC R9-5-502.A.7.c. A. A licensee providing child care services for infants shall: 7. Provide space, materials, and equipment in an infant room that includes the following: c. At least one adult-size chair for use by a: i. Staff member when holding or feeding an infant, or ii. Nursing mother when breastfeeding her infant;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, the Infant room lacked an adult-sized chair.”

AAC R9-5-502.A.8.b. A. A licensee providing child care services for infants shall: 8. Provide a crib for each infant that: b. Has a commercially waterproofed mattress; and

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, in the Infant room, the 5 cribs lacked a waterproof mattress. Previously cited: 5/21/2024”

AAC R9-5-502.A.8.c. A. A licensee providing child care services for infants shall: 8. Provide a crib for each infant that: c. Is furnished with clean, sanitized, crib-size bedding, including a fitted sheet and top sheet or a blanket;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, in the Infant room, the 5 cribs lacked a fitted sheet.”

AAC R9-5-502.C.1.h. C. A licensee shall ensure that:1. A staff member providing child care services in an infant room: h. Cleans and sanitizes each crib and mattress used by an infant when soiled;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, in the Infant room, the 5 crib mattress had multiple stains of various sizes and colors.”

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 Officers' observations, in the Infant room, the diaper changing surface was not seamless and smooth. There was peeling laminate with an exposed rough surface on the diaper changing area. Previously cited: 5/21/2024 and 5/24/2023”

AAC R9-5-512.A. A. A licensee shall maintain facility premises free of insects and vermin.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, in the infant room, there was an unidentified big bug on the carpet. In the School-age classroom, there were 6 dead cockroaches and crickets on the floor. Previously cited: 5/21/2024”

AAC R9-5-512.B. B. A licensee shall maintain facility premises and furnishings:1. In a clean condition, and 2. Free from odor.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers’ observations, the following areas were not maintained in a clean condition: *The facility had a strong musty and stale odor. *There were 14 cracks or missing pieces of various sizes in the ceiling tiles. *There were 13 circular shapes of discoloration of various sizes on the ceiling tiles. 3’s Classroom: *There were multiple stains of various sizes on the black rug. School-Age Classroom: *There was a black substance on the side of the hanging cabinet on the West wall. *There was a grim build-up in the handwashing sink. *There were multiple brown spots on the white shelf. Hallway: *There was a black handprint and black spots on the wall and the light-switch near the exit door. *There was black and brown build-up on the doorframe of the back exit door. Outside Activity areas: *There was a dirt build-up on the walls. *There was a dirt build-up on the inside and outside of the play house and play structures. *Previously cited: 5/21/2024 and 5/24/2023”

AAC R9-5-512.D. D. A licensee shall ensure that toilet bowls, lavatory fixtures, and floors in toilet rooms and kitchens are cleaned and sanitized as often as necessary to maintain them in a clean and sanitized condition or at least once every 24 hours.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers’ observations, in the School-Age restroom, there was a grey build-up on and around the sink faucet near the wall. There was black spots on the sink near the door. *Previously cited: 5/21/2024”

AAC R9-5-512.F. 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; 2. Staff members wash their hands with soap and running water after toileting; 3. An enrolled child’s hands are washed with soap and running water after toileting; 4. Except for a cup or receptacle used only for water, food waste is stored in a covered container and the container is clean and lined with a plastic bag; 5. Food waste and other refuse is removed from the facility building at least once every 24 hours or more often as necessary to maintain a clean condition and avoid odors; 6. A staff member or an enrolled child does not draw water for human consumption from a toilet room handwashing sink; 7. Toys, materials, and equipment are maintained in a clean condition; 8. Plumbing fixtures are maintained in a clean and working condition; and 9. Chipped or cracked sinks and toilets are replaced or repaired.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers’ observations, in the Infant room, there was a dirt build up on the black rocker, the jumper and the interactive jungle. There was a crack on the right side of the diaper changing sink in the 3's classroom. In the School-Age restroom the lid on the tank of the toilet was too big and loose to the touch. In the School-Age restroom, there were screws protruding up form the base of the toilet. *Previously cited: 5/24/2023 and 5/24/2022”

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, the following outside hazards were accessible to enrolled children: Outside Door Area: *There was cracked and uneven concrete outside the door. *There were 4 bikes hanging from the top of the fence. *There was a water hose on the ground near the utility sink and gate entrance. *There was sharp metal on the screen behind the utility sink. Toddler Playground: *There was screws sticking out of the ends of the seats on the helicopter. *There were 2 screws sticking out, pointy side, on the dashboard of the helicopter near the steering wheel. *There was a detached slide placed in the play structure. *There was a circular 3-inch piece of metal sticking up from the ground near the East wall. *There was rust on all 5 of the circular stationary bikes. *The telephone pole had rough splintering wood. *There were 2 pieces of glass 1-inch/2-inch long on the ground East of the middle fence. *There was rust on the fences and the walls in multiple areas. School-Age Playground: *The web climber was not mounted to the ground. *On the yellow slide 2 of the 4 screws detached from play structure. *The swings screws lacked a tight and secure fit to the play structure, loose to the touch. *There was peeling paint with exposed rough splintering wood on the entire play structure. *There was a screw sticking out of the play structure near the swings at head level. *Previously cited: 5/21/2024 and 5/24/2023”

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 Officers’ observations, the outdoor activity areas lacked resilient surfacing for the play structure, swings, and web climber. *Previously cited: 5/21/2024”

AAC R9-5-512.C. C. A licensee shall ensure that floor coverings are:1. Clean; and 2. Free from: a. Dampness, b. Odors, and c. Hazards.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers’ observations, in the 3’s classroom, there were 3 chipped tiles near the East doorway. In the School-Age classroom there was a chipped tile near the North wall under a red chair. There was a broken tile behind the toilet in the School-Age Classroom. *Previously cited: 5/21/2024 and 5/24/2023-Refrence 501.A.12”

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

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, in the outdoor activity area, there was an electrical extension cord hanging down the North wall and across the sidewalk.”

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, in the Preschool and Toddler outdoor activity area, there was no resilient material in any of the following fall zones, there was bare ground with hard brown dirt and rocks: Preschool outdoor activity area: *The green slide on the climber. *The jungle gym Toddler outdoor activity area: *The swings. *The rock climbing wall. *The yellow slide on wooden climber. *The blue slide on small white plastic climber.”

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 Officer's observation, in the outdoor activity, the following hazards were accessible to children: Preschool Playground: *There was a rusty metal plate protruding from the ground about 4 1/2 inches, exposing 2 rusty bolts and sharp edges, to the left of the cement wall. *There was a rusty metal plate protruding from the ground about 1 1/2 inches, exposing rusty bolts and sharp edges, to the left of the cement. *There was a metal mouse trap on 3 stacked chairs, on the North wall. *There was a metal fence with flaking black paint, exposing rough and rusty metal. *There were 2 bolts protruding a 1/2 inch from the cement sidewalk. Toddler Playground: *There were broken slates with sharp edges on the wooden fence. *On the West wooden fence, there was dried and splintery wood. *There was rough splintery wood and flaking red paint on the stairs of the wooden climber. *There was a rusty bolt protruding 1 inch from the Left side of the wooden climber. *At the top of the swings, there were 4 bolts that were loose to the touch, causing the swings to be insecure and wobbly. *There was flaking paint exposing rusty metal, on the Basketball Pole. *There were broken boards on the base of the wooden climber exposing rough, sharp and splintery edges.”

AAC R9-5-512.D. D. A licensee shall ensure that toilet bowls, lavatory fixtures, and floors in toilet rooms and kitchens are cleaned and sanitized as often as necessary to maintain them in a clean and sanitized condition or at least once every 24 hours.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, there was a deep crack on the right side of the sink in the Two's classroom. *In the Multi-purpose Room, the lid on the tank of the toilet was too large and loose to the touch. *There was black mold surrounding the drain of the sink basin, in both sinks in the multi-purpose room.”

AAC R9-5-512.B. B. A licensee shall maintain facility premises and furnishings:1. In a clean condition, and 2. Free from odor.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, the following areas were not maintained in clean condition: *In Classroom 2, there was a gray and brown fuzzy build-up in the window sills. *In the Infant room, there was a gray and brown fuzzy build-up in the North window sills. There was a brown sticky substance and black mold around the windows, door and the walls on the inside of the plastic play house, on the Preschool outdoor activity area. *There was a sticky brown substance on the bottom of the green slide, on the Preschool outdoor activity area. *There was a dark brown substance streaming down the yellow slide, on the Preschool outdoor activity area. *There was a large dried and sticky brown dirt on the green chair by the North wall, on the Preschool outdoor activity area. *There was a brown sticky substance on the steps of the white plastic climber and blue slide, on the Toddler outdoor activity area.”

AAC R9-5-512.A. A. A licensee shall maintain facility premises free of insects and vermin.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, in the multiple purpose room, there were multiple areas with spider webs and dead spiders. In the Infant room, there were spider webs and dead spiders and beetles in the Southeast corner and in the window on North wall.”

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, the diaper changing surface was not seamless and smooth. There was peeling laminate with an exposed rough surface on the diaper changing area.”

AAC R9-5-502.A.8.b. A. A licensee providing child care services for infants shall: 8. Provide a crib for each infant that: b. Has a commercially waterproofed mattress; and

“Finings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, in the Infant room, 5 of 5 cribs lacked a waterproof mattress.”

AAC R9-5-403.B. B. A licensee shall ensure that:1. Each staff member who provides child care services completes 18 or more actual hours of training every 12 months after the effective date of this Chapter or the staff member’s starting date of employment or volunteer service in at least two topics listed in this subsection: a. Child growth and development, including: i. Infant growth and development, which may include sudden infant death syndrome prevention; ii. Developmental psychology; iii. Language development; iv. Observation and child assessment; v. Developmentally-appropriate activities; vi. Child guidance and methods of discipline which may include training on the appropriate techniques to prevent a child from harm or to prevent the child from harming others; and vii. Developmentally-appropriate activity areas; b. Health and safety issues, including: i. Accident and emergency procedures, including CPR and first aid for infants and children; ii. Recognition of signs of illness and infestation; iii. Nutrition and developmentally-appropriate eating habits; iv. Child abuse detection, reporting, and prevention; v. Safety of indoor and outdoor activity areas; and vi. Sun safety policies and procedures; c. Program administration, planning, development, or management; and d. Availability of community services and resources, including those available to children with special needs; and 2. As part of the required 18 hours of training in subsection (B)(1): a. A staff member who has less than 12 months of child care experience before the staff member’s starting date, completes at least 12 hours in one or more of the topics in subsection (B)(1)(a) in the staff member’s first 12 months at the facility; b. A staff member who has 12 months or more of child care experience, completes at least 6 hours in one or more of the topics in subsection (B)(1)(a) every 12 months after the staff member’s starting date; c. A staff member who provides child care services to an infant completes at least 6 hours in subsection (B)(1)(a)(i) every 12 months after the staff member’s starting date; and d. A facility director completes at least 6 hours in subsection (B)(1)(c) every 12 months after the facility director’s starting date.

“Findings: Based on the facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of 3 staff files, Staff #1 and Staff #2 lacked the required 18 annual training hours.”

AAC R9-5-403.A. A. Within 10 calendar days of the starting date of employment or volunteer service, a licensee shall provide, and each staff member who provides child care services shall complete, training for new staff members that includes all of the following:1. Facility philosophy and goals; 2. Names and ages of and developmental expectations for enrolled children for whom the staff member will provide child care services; 3. Health needs, nutritional requirements, any known allergies, and information about adaptive devices of enrolled children for whom the staff member will provide child care services; 4. Lesson plans; 5. Child guidance and methods of discipline; 6. Hand washing techniques; 7. Diapering techniques and toileting, if assigned to diaper changing duties; 8. Food preparation, service, sanitation, and storage, if assigned to food preparation; 9. If a staff member is assigned to feeding infants, the preparation, handling, and storage of infant formula and breast milk; 10. Recognition of signs of illness and infestation; 11. Child abuse or neglect detection, prevention, and reporting; 12. Accident and emergency procedures; 13. Staff responsibilities as required by A.R.S. Title 36, Chapter 7.1, Article 1 and this Chapter; 14. Sun safety policies and procedures; 15. Safety in outdoor activity areas; 16. Transportation procedures, if applicable; and 17. Field trip procedures, if applicable.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of staff files, 3 of the 3 staff files lacked documentation of the 10-day training orientation.”

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).

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of 3 staff files, 3 of 3 staff files lacked documentation of 2 good-faith effort professional References.”

AAC R9-5-309.A. A. An applicant shall obtain the following inspections of a facility and make any repairs or corrections stated on an inspection report before a license is issued by the Department: 1. If there are gas pipes that run from a gas meter to an appliance or location on the facility premises, a gas inspection by a licensed plumber or individual authorized by the local jurisdiction that verifies there are no gas leaks in the gas pipes that run from the gas meter to any appliance or location on facility premises; and 2. A fire inspection by a local fire department.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's observation, the licensee lacked documentation of a violation-free fire inspection report.”

AAC R9-5-305.B. B. A licensee shall attach an enrolled child’s written immunization record or exemption affidavit, required in subsection(A), to the enrolled child’s Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record card, required in R9-5 304(B).

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of enrolled children's Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record card, 2 of 15 cards lacked an attached written immunization record.”

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 facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of 15 enrolled children's Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record card, 9 of 15 cards lacked the following information: Child #1 and Child #2: The date of the child’s enrollment, The name and contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider, The name, home address, city, state, zip code, and contact telephone number of second parent of the child. Child #3: The name and contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider. Child #4: The name, home address, city, state, zip code, and contact telephone number of second parent of the child, The written authorization for emergency medical care of the enrolled child when the parent cannot be contacted at the time of the emergency. Child #5 and Child #6: The child’s name, home address, city, state, zip code, home telephone number, The name, home address, city, state, zip code, and contact telephone number of second parent of the child, The written authorization for emergency medical care of the enrolled child when the parent cannot be contacted at the time of the emergency. Child #7: The name and contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider. Child #8: The date of the child’s enrollment. Child #9: The written authorization for emergency medical care of the enrolled child when the parent cannot be contacted at the time of the emergency, and the name and contact telephone number of the child’s health care provider.”

AAC R9-5-203.E. E. If a staff member possesses a fingerprint clearance card that was issued before the staff member became a staff member at the facility, a licensee shall:1. Contact the Department of Public Safety before the individual becomes a staff member to determine whether the fingerprint clearance card is valid; and 2. Document this determination, including the name of the staff member, the date of contact with the Department of Public Safety, and whether the fingerprint clearance card is valid.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of 3 staff files, 3 of 3 staff files lacked documentation of a validated fingerprint card.”

AAC R9-5-203.D. D. A licensee shall ensure that each staff member submits to the licensee a copy of the staff member’s valid fingerprint clearance card each time the fingerprint clearance card is issued or renewed every six years.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of 3 staff files, Staff #2's file lacked documentation a copy of a valid fingerprint card (Card expired 8/03/2023).”

AAC R9-5-203.A. A. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member completes, signs, dates, and submits to the licensee, before the staff member’s starting date of employment or volunteer service:1. The form required in A.R.S. § 36-883.02(C); and 2. If required by A.R.S. § 8-804, the form in A.R.S. § 8-804(I).

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the Compliance Officer's review of 3 staff files, Staff #2 and Staff #3 lacked documentation of the DCS Registry form.”

AAC R9-5-512.C. C. A licensee shall ensure that floor coverings are:1. Clean; and 2. Free from: a. Dampness, b. Odors, and c. Hazards.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, there were 3 cracked tiles exposing sharp edges at the base of the door, in the Two's classroom.”