Vanessa Gunter
Lynchburg, VA 24501 · infants to school-age · Home daycare: the provider shares the address with families
Step By Step Early Learning Center
- licensed capacity
- 124
- open each week
- 5 days
We are a directory, not the daycare. We cannot hold a spot, enroll a child or answer questions about care.
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About
About Step By Step Early Learning Center
Step By Step Early Learning Center is a licensed child care center in Madison Heights, Virginia. It is licensed by the state, for up to 124 children, serving infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children.
It is open Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Virginia Department of Education, Office of Child Care Health and Safety made 12 visits in the last 3 years and cited 37 rules across 7 of them. The visit list, in the state's words, is below.
InfantsSchool-ageAccepts child care subsidyOpens before 7 AM
Ages served: infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children
6 wk
6 mo
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
10
12 yr
Ask when you call: rates, current openings, staff-to-child ratio and teacher qualifications.
- Type
- Child care center
- Ages
- Infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children
- Hours today
- Closed today
- Licensed capacity
- 124 children
Hours
Hours
| Monday | 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Saturday | Not listed |
| SundayToday | Not listed |
Programs
Programs and care
| Ages | Infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age childrenFrom the state license |
|---|---|
| Child care subsidy | Accepts state child care subsidiesFrom the state license |
| Licensed capacity | 124 childrenFrom the state license |
Cost
Tuition and costs
Step By Step Early Learning Center has not listed its tuition.
Ask the daycare for its ratesIt has not listed its tuition.
State record
Inspection reports for Step By Step Early Learning Center
License
- Status
- Licensed and operating
- License type
- License (Two Year)
- Capacity
- 124 children
- Ages
- Infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children
- License number
- #1106504
Summary
12 visits in the last 3 years · Last visit Apr 30, 2026: 4 rules cited
Rules cited on 12 of 12 visits · 37 rules in all
- Background checks 8
- Records and paperwork 7
- Health, medication and illness 7
- Safety and hazards 5
- Supervision and ratios 4
- Safe sleep 2
- Building, equipment and play areas 1
- Discipline and child guidance 1
- Staff training and qualifications 1
- Other rules 1
For comparison: 91% of Virginia daycares had at least one rule cited in the last 3 years; the typical daycare had 8.
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 19 visits
Apr 30, 2026Inspection4 rules cited
8VAC20-780-350-B-4
“The required staff-to-child ratio for 3-year-olds up to school age eligible is 1 staff for every 10 children. There were two staff and 21 children (ages 3-4 years) in Classroom 4; three staff were required for this group of children.”
8VAC20-780-80-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION For each group of children, the center shall maintain a written record of daily attendance that documents the arrival and departure of each child in care as it occurs. There were 11 children present and 12 children marked present in Classroom 1. There were 8 children present and 7 children marked present in Classroom 2. There were 12 children present and 17 children marked present in Classroom 3.”
22.1-289.035-B-4
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The center has not obtained the child abuse and neglect registry search nor the search of the sex offender registry from a state in which Staff 3 has previously resided; Staff 2 who is currently employed and works alone with children.”
8VAC20-780-40-E
“The center shall maintain compliance with their own policies and procedures that are required by the standards. The center’s required Medication Policy states the following: no consent if effective for longer than 10 working days except with written authorization from the child’s physician and parent. The medication authorization form for Medication 1 was effective for one year by the parent but did not include authorization by the child’s physician; the medication has been administered to the child on two occasions.”
Oct 23, 2025Visit6 rules cited
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION Documentation of the screening shall be submitted at the time of employment and prior to coming into contact with children. Staff #5 did not submit documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening prior to coming into contact with children. The documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening for Staff 5 was submitted more than 3 weeks after employment.”
8VAC20-780-160-C
“Staff members shall submit the results of a follow-up tuberculosis screening at least every two years from the date of the initial screening. The tuberculosis screening for Staff 1 was overdue by 3 months.”
22.1-289.035-B-4
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The record for Staff 5, who has been employed for more than 2 months, did not have documentation of requesting a child abuse and neglect registry check nor a sex offender registry check in one state that the staff member has resided in within the preceding 5 years.”
8VAC20-780-330-B
“Playground equipment with moving parts or climbing apparatus must have appropriate fall zones that encompass sufficient area to include the child's trajectory in the event of a fall. The required fall zone for the double-slide was 9 feet; the fall zone measured 7 feet.”
8VAC20-780-340-D
“In each grouping of children at least one staff member who meets the qualifications of a program leader or program director shall be regularly present. Staff #2 did not meet qualifications of a program lead.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the information required by the standards. Child #4 and Child #5 did not have an annual update on file.”
Oct 23, 2025Inspection6 rules cited
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION Documentation of the screening shall be submitted at the time of employment and prior to coming into contact with children. Staff #5 did not submit documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening prior to coming into contact with children. The documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening for Staff 5 was submitted more than 3 weeks after employment.”
8VAC20-780-160-C
“Staff members shall submit the results of a follow-up tuberculosis screening at least every two years from the date of the initial screening. The tuberculosis screening for Staff 1 was overdue by 3 months.”
22.1-289.035-B-4
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The record for Staff 5, who has been employed for more than 2 months, did not have documentation of requesting a child abuse and neglect registry check nor a sex offender registry check in one state that the staff member has resided in within the preceding 5 years.”
8VAC20-780-330-B
“Playground equipment with moving parts or climbing apparatus must have appropriate fall zones that encompass sufficient area to include the child's trajectory in the event of a fall. The required fall zone for the double-slide was 9 feet; the fall zone measured 7 feet.”
8VAC20-780-340-D
“In each grouping of children at least one staff member who meets the qualifications of a program leader or program director shall be regularly present. Staff #2 did not meet qualifications of a program lead.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the information required by the standards. Child #4 and Child #5 did not have an annual update on file.”
Oct 23, 2025Inspection6 rules cited
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION Documentation of the screening shall be submitted at the time of employment and prior to coming into contact with children. Staff #5 did not submit documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening prior to coming into contact with children. The documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening for Staff 5 was submitted more than 3 weeks after employment.”
8VAC20-780-160-C
“Staff members shall submit the results of a follow-up tuberculosis screening at least every two years from the date of the initial screening. The tuberculosis screening for Staff 1 was overdue by 3 months.”
22.1-289.035-B-4
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The record for Staff 5, who has been employed for more than 2 months, did not have documentation of requesting a child abuse and neglect registry check nor a sex offender registry check in one state that the staff member has resided in within the preceding 5 years.”
8VAC20-780-330-B
“Playground equipment with moving parts or climbing apparatus must have appropriate fall zones that encompass sufficient area to include the child's trajectory in the event of a fall. The required fall zone for the double-slide was 9 feet; the fall zone measured 7 feet.”
8VAC20-780-340-D
“In each grouping of children at least one staff member who meets the qualifications of a program leader or program director shall be regularly present. Staff #2 did not meet qualifications of a program lead.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the information required by the standards. Child #4 and Child #5 did not have an annual update on file.”
Aug 6, 2025Inspection1 rule cited
22.1-289.035-B-4
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The center did not request a child abuse and neglect registry from one state for Staff 4 prior to employment.”
May 6, 2025Complaint investigation16 rules cited
8VAC20-780-350-C Complaint related: No
“REPEAT VIOLATION When children are in ongoing mixed age groups, the staff-to-children ratio applicable to the youngest child in the group shall apply to the entire group. On 04/22/2025, an infant class and a preschool-aged class were combined for approximately one hour. There were between 16-18 children in the care of 2 staff members during this period of time. The staff-to-child ratio for children from birth to 16 months (1 staff:4 children) was applicable to this group of children. A minimum of 4 staff would have been required for this group.”
8VAC20-780-130-A
“The center shall obtain documentation that each child has received the immunizations required by the State Board of Health before the child can attend the center. Child 2, who has been attending for more than 1 month, did not have documentation of an immunization record on file.”
8VAC20-780-40-K
“The center shall develop written procedures for prevention of shaken baby syndrome or abusive head trauma, including coping with crying babies, safe sleeping practices, and sudden infant death syndrome awareness. The written procedures were not available for review.”
8VAC20-780-280-B
“Hazardous substances must be in a locked place that prevents access by children. There were two containers of insecticides unlocked on top of a cabinet in Room 6.”
8VAC20-780-280-C
“Pesticides or insecticides shall not be stored in areas used by children or in areas used for food preparation or storage. There were two containers of insecticides on top of a cabinet in Room 6; Room 6 is used to store the children’s belongings and is used to store food.”
8VAC20-780-350-C
“When children are in ongoing mixed age groups, the staff-to-children ratio applicable to the youngest child in the group shall apply. On 05/06/2025, there were 2 staff supervising 9 children, ages 3 months- 2 years, in Room 1. The staff-to-child ratio for children from birth to 16 months (1 staff:4 children) was applicable to this group of children. Three staff were required for this group.”
8VAC20-780-550-G
“Documentation shall be maintained of emergency evacuation, shelter-in-place and lockdown drills. The emergency evacuation drill conducted in April 2025 was not documented.”
8VAC20-780-70
“Documentation of at least 2 references to character, reputation, and competency are to be checked prior to employment. Staff 2, who has been working at the center for one month, did not have any completed reference verifications on file. Staff 5, who has been working at the center for one week, did not have any completed reference verifications on file.”
8VAC20-780-80-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION For each group of children, the center shall maintain a written record of daily attendance that documents the arrival and departure of each child in care as it occurs. On 05/06/2025, there were 10 children present in Room 2, but only 9 were marked present on the attendance record. There were 15 children present in Room 3 and 16 marked present on the attendance record. There were 8 children present in Room 4, but only 7 children were marked present on the attendance record.”
8VAC20-780-370-1
“When an infant is placed in their crib, they shall be placed on their back. Child 2, Child 3 and Child 5 were placed on their stomachs in their cribs.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the required information. The records for Child 2, Child 4 and Child 5 were missing information required by the standards.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening at the time of employment and prior to coming into contact with children. The record for Staff 3, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than one month, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening. The record for Staff 4, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than eight months, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening. The record for Staff 5, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than one week, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening.”
22.1-289.035-B-2
“Providers must obtain a completed national criminal background check prior to the employee’s first day of employment. The national criminal background check for Staff 4 was obtained 2 weeks after the first day of employment.”
22.1-289.035-B-3
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center must request a search of the central registry prior to the employee’s first day of employment. Staff 2, who has been employed for more than 9 months, did not have a central registry request. Staff 3, who has been employed for more than one month, did not have a central registry request. Staff 4, who has been employed for more than 8 months, did not have a central registry request. Staff 5, who has been employed for more than one week, did not have a central registry request.”
22.1-289.035-B-4
“The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The center did not request the criminal record check and child abuse and neglect registry check from one state that Staff 3 has resided in within the preceding 5 years; Staff 3 has been employed for more than 1 month.”
8VAC20-780-240-A
“Staff are to complete the VDOE sponsored online orientation course within 90 days of hire. Staff 4, who has been employed for more than eight months, has not completed the course.”
May 6, 2025Inspection16 rules cited
8VAC20-780-350-C Complaint related: No
“REPEAT VIOLATION When children are in ongoing mixed age groups, the staff-to-children ratio applicable to the youngest child in the group shall apply to the entire group. On 04/22/2025, an infant class and a preschool-aged class were combined for approximately one hour. There were between 16-18 children in the care of 2 staff members during this period of time. The staff-to-child ratio for children from birth to 16 months (1 staff:4 children) was applicable to this group of children. A minimum of 4 staff would have been required for this group.”
8VAC20-780-130-A
“The center shall obtain documentation that each child has received the immunizations required by the State Board of Health before the child can attend the center. Child 2, who has been attending for more than 1 month, did not have documentation of an immunization record on file.”
8VAC20-780-40-K
“The center shall develop written procedures for prevention of shaken baby syndrome or abusive head trauma, including coping with crying babies, safe sleeping practices, and sudden infant death syndrome awareness. The written procedures were not available for review.”
8VAC20-780-280-B
“Hazardous substances must be in a locked place that prevents access by children. There were two containers of insecticides unlocked on top of a cabinet in Room 6.”
8VAC20-780-280-C
“Pesticides or insecticides shall not be stored in areas used by children or in areas used for food preparation or storage. There were two containers of insecticides on top of a cabinet in Room 6; Room 6 is used to store the children’s belongings and is used to store food.”
8VAC20-780-350-C
“When children are in ongoing mixed age groups, the staff-to-children ratio applicable to the youngest child in the group shall apply. On 05/06/2025, there were 2 staff supervising 9 children, ages 3 months- 2 years, in Room 1. The staff-to-child ratio for children from birth to 16 months (1 staff:4 children) was applicable to this group of children. Three staff were required for this group.”
8VAC20-780-550-G
“Documentation shall be maintained of emergency evacuation, shelter-in-place and lockdown drills. The emergency evacuation drill conducted in April 2025 was not documented.”
8VAC20-780-70
“Documentation of at least 2 references to character, reputation, and competency are to be checked prior to employment. Staff 2, who has been working at the center for one month, did not have any completed reference verifications on file. Staff 5, who has been working at the center for one week, did not have any completed reference verifications on file.”
8VAC20-780-80-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION For each group of children, the center shall maintain a written record of daily attendance that documents the arrival and departure of each child in care as it occurs. On 05/06/2025, there were 10 children present in Room 2, but only 9 were marked present on the attendance record. There were 15 children present in Room 3 and 16 marked present on the attendance record. There were 8 children present in Room 4, but only 7 children were marked present on the attendance record.”
8VAC20-780-370-1
“When an infant is placed in their crib, they shall be placed on their back. Child 2, Child 3 and Child 5 were placed on their stomachs in their cribs.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the required information. The records for Child 2, Child 4 and Child 5 were missing information required by the standards.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening at the time of employment and prior to coming into contact with children. The record for Staff 3, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than one month, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening. The record for Staff 4, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than eight months, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening. The record for Staff 5, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than one week, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening.”
22.1-289.035-B-2
“Providers must obtain a completed national criminal background check prior to the employee’s first day of employment. The national criminal background check for Staff 4 was obtained 2 weeks after the first day of employment.”
22.1-289.035-B-3
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center must request a search of the central registry prior to the employee’s first day of employment. Staff 2, who has been employed for more than 9 months, did not have a central registry request. Staff 3, who has been employed for more than one month, did not have a central registry request. Staff 4, who has been employed for more than 8 months, did not have a central registry request. Staff 5, who has been employed for more than one week, did not have a central registry request.”
22.1-289.035-B-4
“The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The center did not request the criminal record check and child abuse and neglect registry check from one state that Staff 3 has resided in within the preceding 5 years; Staff 3 has been employed for more than 1 month.”
8VAC20-780-240-A
“Staff are to complete the VDOE sponsored online orientation course within 90 days of hire. Staff 4, who has been employed for more than eight months, has not completed the course.”
May 6, 2025Inspection16 rules cited
8VAC20-780-350-C Complaint related: No
“REPEAT VIOLATION When children are in ongoing mixed age groups, the staff-to-children ratio applicable to the youngest child in the group shall apply to the entire group. On 04/22/2025, an infant class and a preschool-aged class were combined for approximately one hour. There were between 16-18 children in the care of 2 staff members during this period of time. The staff-to-child ratio for children from birth to 16 months (1 staff:4 children) was applicable to this group of children. A minimum of 4 staff would have been required for this group.”
8VAC20-780-130-A
“The center shall obtain documentation that each child has received the immunizations required by the State Board of Health before the child can attend the center. Child 2, who has been attending for more than 1 month, did not have documentation of an immunization record on file.”
8VAC20-780-40-K
“The center shall develop written procedures for prevention of shaken baby syndrome or abusive head trauma, including coping with crying babies, safe sleeping practices, and sudden infant death syndrome awareness. The written procedures were not available for review.”
8VAC20-780-280-B
“Hazardous substances must be in a locked place that prevents access by children. There were two containers of insecticides unlocked on top of a cabinet in Room 6.”
8VAC20-780-280-C
“Pesticides or insecticides shall not be stored in areas used by children or in areas used for food preparation or storage. There were two containers of insecticides on top of a cabinet in Room 6; Room 6 is used to store the children’s belongings and is used to store food.”
8VAC20-780-350-C
“When children are in ongoing mixed age groups, the staff-to-children ratio applicable to the youngest child in the group shall apply. On 05/06/2025, there were 2 staff supervising 9 children, ages 3 months- 2 years, in Room 1. The staff-to-child ratio for children from birth to 16 months (1 staff:4 children) was applicable to this group of children. Three staff were required for this group.”
8VAC20-780-550-G
“Documentation shall be maintained of emergency evacuation, shelter-in-place and lockdown drills. The emergency evacuation drill conducted in April 2025 was not documented.”
8VAC20-780-70
“Documentation of at least 2 references to character, reputation, and competency are to be checked prior to employment. Staff 2, who has been working at the center for one month, did not have any completed reference verifications on file. Staff 5, who has been working at the center for one week, did not have any completed reference verifications on file.”
8VAC20-780-80-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION For each group of children, the center shall maintain a written record of daily attendance that documents the arrival and departure of each child in care as it occurs. On 05/06/2025, there were 10 children present in Room 2, but only 9 were marked present on the attendance record. There were 15 children present in Room 3 and 16 marked present on the attendance record. There were 8 children present in Room 4, but only 7 children were marked present on the attendance record.”
8VAC20-780-370-1
“When an infant is placed in their crib, they shall be placed on their back. Child 2, Child 3 and Child 5 were placed on their stomachs in their cribs.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the required information. The records for Child 2, Child 4 and Child 5 were missing information required by the standards.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center is required to obtain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening at the time of employment and prior to coming into contact with children. The record for Staff 3, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than one month, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening. The record for Staff 4, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than eight months, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening. The record for Staff 5, who has been working with children and has been employed for more than one week, does not contain documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening.”
22.1-289.035-B-2
“Providers must obtain a completed national criminal background check prior to the employee’s first day of employment. The national criminal background check for Staff 4 was obtained 2 weeks after the first day of employment.”
22.1-289.035-B-3
“REPEAT VIOLATION The center must request a search of the central registry prior to the employee’s first day of employment. Staff 2, who has been employed for more than 9 months, did not have a central registry request. Staff 3, who has been employed for more than one month, did not have a central registry request. Staff 4, who has been employed for more than 8 months, did not have a central registry request. Staff 5, who has been employed for more than one week, did not have a central registry request.”
22.1-289.035-B-4
“The center is required to obtain background checks from any state in which the individual has resided in the preceding five years. The center did not request the criminal record check and child abuse and neglect registry check from one state that Staff 3 has resided in within the preceding 5 years; Staff 3 has been employed for more than 1 month.”
8VAC20-780-240-A
“Staff are to complete the VDOE sponsored online orientation course within 90 days of hire. Staff 4, who has been employed for more than eight months, has not completed the course.”
Nov 13, 2024Inspection7 rules cited
8VAC20-780-510-L
“Medications shall be kept in a locked place using a safe locking method that prevents access by children. There was an unlocked container of prescription diaper ointment on a shelf in the diapering area of the toddler class.”
8VAC20-780-290-A-3
“In areas used by preschool age or younger, electrical outlets shall have protective covers. There were uncovered electrical outlets in the 2 year old classroom and in the toddler classroom.”
8VAC20-780-280-H
“Cosmetics, medications, or other harmful agents shall not be stored in areas, purses, or pockets that are accessible to children. There was a pocketbook on the floor of the pre-k classroom that had a container of mace visible inside; the purse was accessible to the children.”
22.1-289.035-B-3
“The center must request a search of the central registry prior to the employee’s first day of employment. The central registry search for Staff 5, who has been employed for 1 months, has not been requested.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“Documentation of a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening must be submitted at the time of employment, before coming into contact with children, and shall have been completed within the last 30 days of the date of employment. The TB screening for Staff 5 was dated 26 days after the time of employment.”
8VAC20-780-80-A
“For each group of children, the center shall maintain a written record of daily attendance that documents the arrival and departure of each child in care as it occurs. On 11/13/2024: there were 16 children present in the 2 year old class and there were 17 children marked present on the attendance record; 6 children present in the infant class and there were 7 children marked present on the attendance record; and there were 21 children marked present for before school care, however, the children had departed for school and where no longer in care. The attendance records did not properly document the arrival and departure of each child as it occurred.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the required information. Child 1 (enrolled 24 months) was missing: documentation of child updates and confirmation of up-to-date information. Child 4 (enrolled 6 months) was missing addresses for emergency contacts and documentation of viewing proof of the child’s identity and age.”
Nov 13, 2024Inspection7 rules cited
8VAC20-780-510-L
“Medications shall be kept in a locked place using a safe locking method that prevents access by children. There was an unlocked container of prescription diaper ointment on a shelf in the diapering area of the toddler class.”
8VAC20-780-290-A-3
“In areas used by preschool age or younger, electrical outlets shall have protective covers. There were uncovered electrical outlets in the 2 year old classroom and in the toddler classroom.”
8VAC20-780-280-H
“Cosmetics, medications, or other harmful agents shall not be stored in areas, purses, or pockets that are accessible to children. There was a pocketbook on the floor of the pre-k classroom that had a container of mace visible inside; the purse was accessible to the children.”
22.1-289.035-B-3
“The center must request a search of the central registry prior to the employee’s first day of employment. The central registry search for Staff 5, who has been employed for 1 months, has not been requested.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“Documentation of a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening must be submitted at the time of employment, before coming into contact with children, and shall have been completed within the last 30 days of the date of employment. The TB screening for Staff 5 was dated 26 days after the time of employment.”
8VAC20-780-80-A
“For each group of children, the center shall maintain a written record of daily attendance that documents the arrival and departure of each child in care as it occurs. On 11/13/2024: there were 16 children present in the 2 year old class and there were 17 children marked present on the attendance record; 6 children present in the infant class and there were 7 children marked present on the attendance record; and there were 21 children marked present for before school care, however, the children had departed for school and where no longer in care. The attendance records did not properly document the arrival and departure of each child as it occurred.”
8VAC20-780-60-A
“The center shall maintain a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all of the required information. Child 1 (enrolled 24 months) was missing: documentation of child updates and confirmation of up-to-date information. Child 4 (enrolled 6 months) was missing addresses for emergency contacts and documentation of viewing proof of the child’s identity and age.”
Show 9 earlier visits
Jan 18, 2024Inspection3 rules cited
8VAC20-780-440-A
“Based on observation, the center failed to ensure that a cot or rest mat was provided to children during the designated rest period. Evidence: Observed in the infant room and toddler room, three toddlers were placed in an infant bouncer for the rest period. All three children sleep in the bouncer daily and are not provided with a cot or a rest mat.”
8VAC20-770-60-C-2
“2nd REPEAT VIOLATION Based on review of four staff records, the center failed to obtain the finding from a search of the central registry within 30 days of hire. Evidence: 1.Staff # 1 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested. Violation for Staff # 1 previously cited on 07/19/2023 inspection. 2.Staff # 3 had a documented employment date of 09/25/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested. 3.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 08/29/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“2nd REPEAT VIOLATION Based on interview and review of staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at the time of employment, no more than 30 days prior to hire, and before coming in contact with children. Evidence: 1.Staff # 1 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 1 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record. Violation for Staff # 1 previously cited on 07/19/2023 inspection. 2. Staff # 2 had a documented employment date of 01/08/2024 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 2 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record. 3.Staff # 3 had a documented employment date of 09/25/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 3 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record. 4.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 08/29/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 4 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record.”
Jan 18, 2024Inspection3 rules cited
8VAC20-780-440-A
“Based on observation, the center failed to ensure that a cot or rest mat was provided to children during the designated rest period. Evidence: Observed in the infant room and toddler room, three toddlers were placed in an infant bouncer for the rest period. All three children sleep in the bouncer daily and are not provided with a cot or a rest mat.”
8VAC20-770-60-C-2
“2nd REPEAT VIOLATION Based on review of four staff records, the center failed to obtain the finding from a search of the central registry within 30 days of hire. Evidence: 1.Staff # 1 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested. Violation for Staff # 1 previously cited on 07/19/2023 inspection. 2.Staff # 3 had a documented employment date of 09/25/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested. 3.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 08/29/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“2nd REPEAT VIOLATION Based on interview and review of staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at the time of employment, no more than 30 days prior to hire, and before coming in contact with children. Evidence: 1.Staff # 1 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 1 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record. Violation for Staff # 1 previously cited on 07/19/2023 inspection. 2. Staff # 2 had a documented employment date of 01/08/2024 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 2 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record. 3.Staff # 3 had a documented employment date of 09/25/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 3 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record. 4.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 08/29/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. Staff # 4 did not have documentation of a TB screening or test in their record.”
Jul 19, 2023Inspection8 rules cited
22.1-289.035-B-2
“REPEAT VIOLATION SYSTEMIC DEFICIENCY Based on review of five staff's records, the center failed to ensure that no person shall be hired for compensated employment prior to the enter obtaining an employment eligibility letter upon completion of a fingerprint background check as required by the Code of Virginia. Evidence: Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023. A returned letter of eligibility was dated 07/13/2023. Staff # 6 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-770-60-B
“SYSTEMIC DEGICIENCY Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to obtain that all staff had a completed sworn statement. Evidence: Staff # 3 had a hire date of 09/21/2022. A completed sworn statement was dated 11/28/2022. Staff # 6 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-770-60-C-2
“SYSTEMIC DEFICIENCY Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to obtain the finding from a search of the central registry within 30 days of hire. Evidence: 1.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 6 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-780-140-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION Based on record review and interviews, the center failed to ensure that each child shall have a physical examination by or under the direction of a physician before the child’s attendance or within 30 days after the first day of attendance. Evidence: 1. The record for Child # 2 contained documentation that the first date of attendance for Child # 1 was 11/18/2019; there was no documentation of a physical in the record.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION Based on interview and review of staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at the time of employment, no more than 30 days prior to hire, and before coming in contact with children. Evidence: 1.Staff # 3 had a documented employment date of 09/12/2022 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. The TB screening was dated 05/18/2022. 2.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. 3.Staff # 5 had a documented employment date of 06/21/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children.”
8VAC20-780-40-M
“Based on observation of the posted list of allergies, the center failed to ensure that the list is dated. Evidence: The posted allergy list posted in all the classrooms was not dated.”
8VAC20-780-340-D
“Based on observation, staff record review, and interviews, the center failed to ensure that each grouping of children had a qualified program lead. Evidence: 1.Staff # 3 was observed working in the preschool room as a program leader on the day of the inspection. Staff # 3 stated she was the program lead. After review of Staff # 3 record, there was no documentation of the educational requirements for a program leader position.”
8VAC20-780-70
“Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that all records were complete per the standard. Evidence: Staff # 5 had a hire date of 06/21/2023 and did not have the two required reference checks prior to employment.”
Jul 19, 2023Inspection8 rules cited
22.1-289.035-B-2
“REPEAT VIOLATION SYSTEMIC DEFICIENCY Based on review of five staff's records, the center failed to ensure that no person shall be hired for compensated employment prior to the enter obtaining an employment eligibility letter upon completion of a fingerprint background check as required by the Code of Virginia. Evidence: Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023. A returned letter of eligibility was dated 07/13/2023. Staff # 6 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-770-60-B
“SYSTEMIC DEGICIENCY Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to obtain that all staff had a completed sworn statement. Evidence: Staff # 3 had a hire date of 09/21/2022. A completed sworn statement was dated 11/28/2022. Staff # 6 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-770-60-C-2
“SYSTEMIC DEFICIENCY Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to obtain the finding from a search of the central registry within 30 days of hire. Evidence: 1.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 6 did not provide documentation when requested.”
8VAC20-780-140-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION Based on record review and interviews, the center failed to ensure that each child shall have a physical examination by or under the direction of a physician before the child’s attendance or within 30 days after the first day of attendance. Evidence: 1. The record for Child # 2 contained documentation that the first date of attendance for Child # 1 was 11/18/2019; there was no documentation of a physical in the record.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“REPEAT VIOLATION Based on interview and review of staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at the time of employment, no more than 30 days prior to hire, and before coming in contact with children. Evidence: 1.Staff # 3 had a documented employment date of 09/12/2022 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. The TB screening was dated 05/18/2022. 2.Staff # 4 had a documented employment date of 06/12/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children. 3.Staff # 5 had a documented employment date of 06/21/2023 and the TB screen was not completed no more than 30 days prior to hire and before coming into contact with children.”
8VAC20-780-40-M
“Based on observation of the posted list of allergies, the center failed to ensure that the list is dated. Evidence: The posted allergy list posted in all the classrooms was not dated.”
8VAC20-780-340-D
“Based on observation, staff record review, and interviews, the center failed to ensure that each grouping of children had a qualified program lead. Evidence: 1.Staff # 3 was observed working in the preschool room as a program leader on the day of the inspection. Staff # 3 stated she was the program lead. After review of Staff # 3 record, there was no documentation of the educational requirements for a program leader position.”
8VAC20-780-70
“Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that all records were complete per the standard. Evidence: Staff # 5 had a hire date of 06/21/2023 and did not have the two required reference checks prior to employment.”
Dec 1, 2022Inspection6 rules cited
8VAC20-770-60-C-2
“Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to obtain the finding from a search of the central registry within 30 days of hire. Evidence: 1.Staff # 2 had a hire date of 9/12/2022. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 1 did not provide documentation when requested. 2.Staff # 3 had a hire date of 8/1/2022. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested.”
22.1-289.035-B-2
“Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that no person shall be hired for compensated for employment prior to the center obtaining an employment eligibility letter upon completion of a fingerprint background check as required by the Code of Virginia. Evidence: Staff # 2 had a documented hire date of 9/12/2022. The fingerprint letter of eligibility was dated 9/28/2022.”
8VAC20-780-140-A
“Based on review of five children's records, the center failed to ensure that all children had a physical examination within 30 days of enrollment. Evidence: The record for Child # 1, started on 8/1/2022, physical exam within 30 days of beginning attendance. The date on the physical exam was 11/28/2022.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“Based on interview and review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at the time of employment, no more than 30 days prior to hire, and before coming in contact with children. Evidence: Staff # 3 started employment on 8/01/2022 and was working with children on the day of the inspection without a TB screening.”
8VAC20-780-160-C
“Based on interview and review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at least every two years from the day of the initial screening or testing. Evidence: 1.Staff # 4 started employment on 10/1/2014 and the most recent TB screening was dated 12/9/2019. The Staff person was working with children on the day of the inspection without a current TB screening. 2. Staff # 5 started employment on 12/30/13 and the most recent TB screening was dated 11/18/18. The Staff person was working with children on the day of the inspection without a current TB screening.”
8VAC20-780-560-G
“Based on observations of the upstairs classroom, the center failed to ensure that all food brought from home was labeled and dated. Evidence: In both classroom upstairs there were 16 lunches boxes that were not dated with today’s date. Staff 4 and 6 confirmed that they were not dated.”
Dec 1, 2022Inspection6 rules cited
8VAC20-770-60-C-2
“Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to obtain the finding from a search of the central registry within 30 days of hire. Evidence: 1.Staff # 2 had a hire date of 9/12/2022. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 1 did not provide documentation when requested. 2.Staff # 3 had a hire date of 8/1/2022. A return search of the central registry was not in the record. Staff # 5 did not provide documentation when requested.”
22.1-289.035-B-2
“Based on review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that no person shall be hired for compensated for employment prior to the center obtaining an employment eligibility letter upon completion of a fingerprint background check as required by the Code of Virginia. Evidence: Staff # 2 had a documented hire date of 9/12/2022. The fingerprint letter of eligibility was dated 9/28/2022.”
8VAC20-780-140-A
“Based on review of five children's records, the center failed to ensure that all children had a physical examination within 30 days of enrollment. Evidence: The record for Child # 1, started on 8/1/2022, physical exam within 30 days of beginning attendance. The date on the physical exam was 11/28/2022.”
8VAC20-780-160-A
“Based on interview and review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at the time of employment, no more than 30 days prior to hire, and before coming in contact with children. Evidence: Staff # 3 started employment on 8/01/2022 and was working with children on the day of the inspection without a TB screening.”
8VAC20-780-160-C
“Based on interview and review of five staff records, the center failed to ensure that all staff had a negative tuberculosis (TB) screening at least every two years from the day of the initial screening or testing. Evidence: 1.Staff # 4 started employment on 10/1/2014 and the most recent TB screening was dated 12/9/2019. The Staff person was working with children on the day of the inspection without a current TB screening. 2. Staff # 5 started employment on 12/30/13 and the most recent TB screening was dated 11/18/18. The Staff person was working with children on the day of the inspection without a current TB screening.”
8VAC20-780-560-G
“Based on observations of the upstairs classroom, the center failed to ensure that all food brought from home was labeled and dated. Evidence: In both classroom upstairs there were 16 lunches boxes that were not dated with today’s date. Staff 4 and 6 confirmed that they were not dated.”
Jul 13, 2022Inspection2 rules cited
8VAC20-780-280-B
“Based on observation of the infant room, the center failed to ensure all chemicals were locked. Evidence: 1.The inspector observed two containers of chemicals sitting on the counter that was accessible to the walking and mobile toddlers in the classroom.”
8VAC20-780-350-C
“Based on observation of the upper classroom, the center failed to ensure that all staff to child ratio was met. Evidence: 1.Observed 18 children ages 4-8 year old's with one staff person. The required ratio is one staff person for 10 children.”
Dec 27, 2021Inspection1 rule cited
8VAC20-780-510-P
“Based on review of one medication, the center failed to ensure that all medication was returned to the parent after the 14 days past the authorization date. Evidence: 1. Child # 4 medication's authorization was completed on 9/23/2021 and was signed by the parent. The authorization is only good for 14 days with out a physician's signature. The medication was at the center on the day of the inspection.”
Dec 27, 2021Inspection1 rule cited
8VAC20-780-510-P
“Based on review of one medication, the center failed to ensure that all medication was returned to the parent after the 14 days past the authorization date. Evidence: 1. Child # 4 medication's authorization was completed on 9/23/2021 and was signed by the parent. The authorization is only good for 14 days with out a physician's signature. The medication was at the center on the day of the inspection.”
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FAQ
Questions about Step By Step Early Learning Center
Is Step By Step Early Learning Center licensed?
Yes. Virginia Department of Education, Office of Child Care Health and Safety lists it as licensed and operating.
When was Step By Step Early Learning Center last inspected?
Virginia Department of Education, Office of Child Care Health and Safety lists the most recent visit on April 30, 2026, with 4 rules cited. It lists 12 visits in the last 3 years.
Has Step By Step Early Learning Center had rules cited by the state?
Yes. Inspectors cited 37 rules across 12 of 12 visits in the last 3 years. For comparison: 91% of Virginia daycares had at least one rule cited in the last 3 years; the typical daycare had 8. 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 Step By Step Early Learning Center care for?
124, the licensed capacity on the state record. It is licensed to serve infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children.
Does Step By Step Early Learning Center accept child care subsidies?
Yes. The state record says it accepts child care subsidies.
What are Step By Step Early Learning Center's hours?
Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM. These are the hours on the state record. Holiday hours can differ.
How much does Step By Step Early Learning Center cost?
It has not listed its tuition. Call (434) 847-4400 to ask.
What is Step By Step Early Learning Center's phone number?
(434) 847-4400.
Where is Step By Step Early Learning Center?
4545 South Amherst Hwy, Madison Heights, VA 24572. The nearest other daycare we list is Temple Baptist Church, 0.2 miles away.