Delaware records · New Castle County · Wilmington

CHILDREN OF AMERICA-WILMINGTON

Licensed Child Care Center · Wilmington, Delaware

Records presented as of November 5, 2026

The operation, as the state lists it

License number
856187
Operation type
Licensed Child Care Center
Address
100 LITTLE FALLS DR, Wilmington, DE 19808
Licensed capacity
197
Ages served, as listed
6 weeks through 12 years.
Hours, as listed
6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
State programs listed
Child Care Food Program;Purchase of Care

The record in numbers

Compliance visits12
Complaint investigations42
Citations recorded43
Citations with correction completed, per the state43
Citations with correction still pending, per the state0
Record spanMay 13, 2022 – October 15, 2026

How to read this record

A compliance visit is a licensing visit by an OCCL specialist. When the specialist finds a regulation has not been met, the visit record carries a citation: the regulation's code and short description, the specialist's corrective-action note describing what was found, and the correction record — the date correction was due, whether the state has marked it completed, the date it was corrected, and how. A complaint investigation begins with a complaint; its record carries the state's result and the investigator's written conclusion. Delaware does not grade citations by risk or severity, so no grade is shown — the specialist's note is the substance of the record. One visit can produce several citations. A citation the state later records as corrected stays in the history; that is what a licensing record is.

Record by year

YearVisits & investigationsCitations recorded
202664
2025146
20242616
202348
202249

Visits and investigations, newest first

OCCL Standards ComplaintOctober 15, 2026Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On September 28, 2026, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of incorrect staff-to-child ratios, lack of supervision, and disrespectful communication towards parents. An investigation was conducted on September 29, 2026. There is no evidence to substantiate the allegations of incorrect staff-to-child ratio, as documentation and observation found no evidence classrooms exceeded the required staff-to-child ratio. There is not enough evidence to substantiate a lack of supervision because although Staff #3 stated Child #1 was outside of the classroom door for about two minutes, Program Coordinator #1 and Staff #1 stated Child #1 was briefly in the hallway outside the Two s Classroom during the classroom transition. Program Coordinator #1 stated they were in the immediate area, in view of Child #1, and opened the classroom door to allow Child #1 to enter the room within seconds. Based on interviews no staff were aware of disrespectful communication by staff, and Administrator #1 reported having no concerns regarding staff attitudes. Program Coordinator #1 addressed the incident with the staff involved, and Administrator #1 provided LS #1 with documentation showing Staff #1 received a written warning regarding center operational policies and procedures related to classroom attendance and movement logs.
Unannounced Full Compliance ReviewJune 11, 2026

4 regulations cited at this visit.

30U — Personnel Files
Ensure all staff files are complete. Refer to staff sheet where circles identify missing non-compliances.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 10, 2026 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 10, 2026

40U — Child Files
Ensure Child files are complete. Child #12 needs blood lead screening. Child #4 and #6 need health appraisals. Child #5 and 7 need health appraisals and blood lead screening.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 10, 2026 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 10, 2026

49U — Indoor Space
Preschool bathroom has pealing tape residue. Needs to be removed and cleaned.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 16, 2026 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 10, 2026

51U — Toilet Facilities
Preschool red bathroom sink is leaking underneath and from faucet. Repair or replace.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 2, 2026 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 10, 2026

OCCL Standards ComplaintMay 20, 2026Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On May 6, 2026, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of incorrect staff-to-child ratios. An investigation was conducted on May 7, 2026. Based on a review of attendance records on May 7, 2026, and interviews with four staff members, this complaint is substantiated. Attendance records for two classrooms reflected staff members in the incorrect staff-to-child ratio for longer than 30 minutes. All four staff members interviewed noted occasions in which their classrooms were not in correct staff-to-child ratio.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 30, 2026Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 7, 2026, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of incorrect staff-to-child ratios, kitchen sanitation, and activity schedule for outdoor play. An investigation was conducted on April 9, 2026. Based on a review of attendance records this complaint is substantiated for incorrect staff-to-child ratio. After observing the kitchen, this complaint is substantiated for an unsanitary kitchen. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for outdoor play in inappropriate temperatures as the facility has been following the regulations for outdoor play.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 23, 2026Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 7, 2026, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of incorrect staff-to-child ratio. An investigation was conducted on April 9, 2026. Based on a review of attendance records this complaint is substantiated for incorrect staff-to-child ratio. On April 6, 2026, two classrooms were documented as not being in correct staff-to-child ratio. An additional concern noted is staff attendance was documented incorrectly on attendance documentation reviewed.
OCCL Standards ComplaintFebruary 11, 2026Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On January 23, 2026, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of failing to follow diapering procedures. An investigation was conducted on February 3, 2026. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint. After interviewing staff members and administration, and observing diapering at the time of the visit, the diapering procedures appear to be in compliance with regulations.
OCCL Standards ComplaintNovember 17, 2025Result: No Evidence to Substantiate with Concern

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On October 28, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding an allegation of lack of supervision. An investigation was conducted on November 3, 2025, and concluded on November 5, 2025. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for lack of supervision after LS #1 reviewed documentation and interviewed administrators and staff members. An additional concern noted was the center failed to attempt to contact additional emergency contacts after being unable to reach Parent #2 regarding a potentially serious injury and did not document attempts to contact a parent/guardian on the injury report.
OCCL Standards ComplaintNovember 6, 2025Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On October 3, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding lack of supervision, incorrect combining of infants with older children, lack of security procedures, failing to conduct monthly evacuation drills, and not providing daily infant logs. This complaint is substantiated for failing to conduct monthly evacuation drills based on interviews of seven staff members who stated fire evacuation drills are not being practiced monthly as required, although administration has logged them as having been completed. There is no evidence to substantiate a lack of supervision or a lack of security procedures. Based on interviews, administration and staff members all stated they are unaware of a child being left alone in the lobby and taken by a different parent to a classroom. There is also a family code to enter the building if administration cannot open the door. After a review of documentation and interviews, there is no evidence to substantiate combining older children with infants or not providing daily infant logs.
OCCL Standards ComplaintSeptember 22, 2025Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On August 1, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding an allegation of lack of supervision, incorrect ratios, behavior management requirements, cell phone use while caring for children, unqualified staff, indoor space hazards, appropriate interactions with toddlers, lesson plan requirements, age-appropriate activities, activity schedule, meal requirements, and diapering requirements. An investigation was conducted on August 8, 2025. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for these allegations after LS #1 collected and reviewed documentation, interviewed administrators and staff members, conducted classroom observations, observed meal times, and orders containing new toys, activities, and shelves.
OCCL Standards ComplaintAugust 11, 2025Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 25, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding an allegation of lack of supervision. An investigation was conducted on July 31, 2025. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for lack of supervision. After speaking with administration and collecting documentation, Child #1 was supervised by a staff member meeting the school bus during afternoon drop off and had been picked up from their school by a relative on the day when Child #1 s whereabouts were a concern.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJuly 31, 2025Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 8, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding food preparation. An investigation was conducted on July 17, 2025. This complaint is substantiated for not maintaining the correct freezer temperature for food preparation. When LS #1 and #2 arrived, the freezer was reading 17 F, when LS #1 and #2 left the center an hour later, the freezer was still reading 17 F without the freezer being opened for one hour.
Unannounced Full Compliance ReviewJune 9, 2025

2 regulations cited at this visit.

30U — Personnel Files
Ensure staff files are complete. OCCL Health and Safety training is needed for Staff #6.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 12, 2025 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 11, 2025

66U — Emergency Planning
Ensure fire drills are conducted with children and staff monthly. Please send June fire drill to OCCL.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 10, 2025 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 11, 2025

OCCL Standards ComplaintJune 2, 2025Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On May 14, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding multiple allegations including serving food that is expired, disrespectful communication, and incorrect mixing of ages. An investigation was conducted on May 15, 2025. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint. After interviews and inspecting the kitchen, there is no evidence that the children are being served expired food. After interviews were conducted with the administration, it was determined communication between the administration and families was not disrespectful. After reviewing the current week s attendance records, and interviewing staff the children are in age-appropriate classrooms.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJune 2, 2025Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On May 15, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding incorrect staff-to-child ratios and not allowing access to the center by parents. An investigation was conducted on May 15, 2025. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for incorrect staff-to-child ratios. After LS #1 reviewed the current week s attendance records, classrooms were documented to be in correct staff-to-child ratio. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for not allowing access to the center by parents. The administration notified families of a change in drop-off times due to staffing changes for one week. The administration did lock the front door for less than five minutes to briefly give assistance to a classroom and then unlocked the front door when they were able to return to the lobby to monitor safe access to the building.
OCCL Standards ComplaintMay 15, 2025Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 30, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding incorrect staff-to-child ratio. An investigation was conducted on May 1, 2025. This complaint is substantiated for incorrect staff-to-child ratio. Upon review of attendance records on multiple days, attendance records showed staff members were not in the correct staff-to-child ratio for various time frames. An additional concern noted during this visit was upon review of attendance records, there were multiple days staff members attendance was not documented accurately for arrivals, meal breaks, and departures.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 25, 2025Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 3, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding incorrect staff-to-child ratio. An investigation was conducted on April 11, 2025. This complaint is substantiated for incorrect staff-to-child ratio. Upon review of attendance records on multiple days, attendance records show staff members were not in the correct staff-to-child ratio for various time frames. An additional concern noted during this visit was upon review of attendance records, there were multiple days staff members attendance was not documented for arrival, meal breaks, and departures. In addition, attendance records show child attendance was not documented for departures on April 3, 2025, and April 7, 2025, for two classrooms.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 9, 2025Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On March 27, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding failing to have security procedures that ensure access to children is limited to authorized people. An unannounced visit was conducted on March 28, 2025. This complaint is substantiated based on interviews with administration and staff members. While the administration team did adjust schedules in an attempt to keep the broken front door monitored at all times, three staff members stated they witnessed periods of time where no staff were monitoring it. This was corrected when the door was fixed on March 29, 2025.
UnannouncedMarch 13, 2025

1 regulation cited at this visit.

49U — Indoor Space
After the licensing specialist informed the center to close at 1:00 pm on March 10. 2025 due to no hot water since March 7, 2025. The Executive Directive allowed the center to stay open until a further communication with OCCL at approximately 4:00 pm on March 10, 2025. This is a violation of DELACARE regulation 49 that states: The Licensee shall ensure the following: All sinks supply hot and cold water under pressure at all times.

Correction status: Completed · corrected March 13, 2025 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due March 10, 2025

OCCL Standards ComplaintJanuary 30, 2025Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On January 8, 2025, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of not following termination policies. An investigation was conducted on January 9, 2025. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for not following termination policies. Based on staff interviews, termination of care was a result of the behavior of Staff #1. The termination policy contained in the Parent Handbook stated Children of America may suspend your child with or without a two-week notice for verbal/physical abuse by you towards management/staff, or any action on the part of a parent/guardian or child that requires law enforcement intervention to maintain a safe environment, such as physical or verbal abuse, or any potential dangerous behavior.
Unannounced Full Compliance ReviewJanuary 2, 2025

3 regulations cited at this visit.

30U — Personnel Files
Ensure the administrator has a complete file on site. Administrator needs service letters and references complete or attempts made, orientation, and Adult Abuse registry

Correction status: Completed · corrected January 27, 2025 · how corrected: Document · correction was due January 17, 2025

40U — Child Files
Ensure Child #12 blood lead screening is complete and in the file.

Correction status: Completed · corrected January 17, 2025 · how corrected: Document · correction was due January 17, 2025

51U — Toilet Facilities
Ensure PreK B bathroom is clean and sanitized and the toilet is cleaned including the base of the toilet.

Correction status: Completed · corrected January 2, 2025 · how corrected: Document · correction was due January 17, 2025

OCCL Standards ComplaintDecember 20, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On December 10, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding not following child exclusion policies and incorrect staff-to-child ratio. An investigation was conducted on December 12, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for incorrect staff-to-child ratios and not following child health exclusion policies. LS #1 spoke with administration and staff members and reviewed classroom attendance records reflecting correct staff-to-child ratios. In interviews of administration and staff members it was stated the facility has followed the policies of the center and OCCL to notify families when children become ill and to inform them of health exclusions. Staff stated they are not aware of concerns from families who were contacted regarding children becoming ill.
OCCL Standards ComplaintDecember 19, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate with Concern

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On November 25, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding an allegation of improper combining of children of different ages. Two additional complaints were received on November 25, 2024, and December 5, 2024, concerning the same allegations. An investigation was begun on November 26, 2024, and concluded on December 5, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for improper combining of children of different age groups. LS #1 observed classrooms with proper ages following DELACARE regulations for the first and last 90 minutes of the day. Attendance sheets were also reviewed which reflected proper age groups throughout the day. An additional concern noted was during the visit, LS #1 observed a classroom that was not in correct staff-to-child ratio. This was corrected when additional staff arrived.
Complaint VisitDecember 3, 2024

1 regulation cited at this visit.

14U — Notification to OCCL
A licensee shall ensure telephone calls and emails from OCCL are responded within two business days.

Correction status: Completed · corrected December 3, 2024 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due December 3, 2024

Complaint VisitNovember 26, 2024

1 regulation cited at this visit.

27U — Ratios, Group Size, and Supervision
Ensure classrooms are in the correct staff to child ratio.

Correction status: Completed · corrected November 26, 2024 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due November 26, 2024

OCCL Standards ComplaintSeptember 23, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On August 7, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding combining toddlers with older children, insufficient staff, and caring for children in space not designated for children's use. An unannounced visit was conducted on August 9, 2024. LS #1 reviewed attendance records, and interviewed administration and staff members. While a tracking sheet was present showing children were signed into the area with the Administrator #1, this complaint is substantiated for caring for children in an unlicensed area. The administrator stated she supervised school-age children in the lobby area while waiting for staff to arrive for work. Based on a review of attendance records there is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for combining toddler children with older children outside of the hours permitted by DELACARE regulations. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for insufficient staff as staff interviews and a review of attendance records showed sufficient staff were available for staff members to have a break.
Enforcement VisitSeptember 17, 2024

1 regulation cited at this visit.

27U — Ratios, Group Size, and Supervision
Ensure classrooms maintain ratio and sufficient staffing. Send September 18-23, 2024 tracking sheets daily to OCCL.

Correction status: Completed · corrected September 24, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due September 24, 2024

OCCL Standards ComplaintAugust 28, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 22, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding an allegation of failure to notify parents of a contagious condition in a timely manner. An investigation was conducted on July 24, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for failure to notify parents in a timely manner of a contagious condition. When interviewed, multiple staff members stated the first known case of lice was five days before parents were notified of the condition by the administration.
OCCL Standards ComplaintAugust 19, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 17, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding incorrect staff-to-child ratios and improper food storage. A complaint investigation was conducted on July 18, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for incorrect staff-to-child ratio. LS #1 reviewed the attendance records for July 17, 2024, that documented Staff #1 was alone with 22 children for almost one hour. This complaint is also substantiated for improper food storage because after interviewing staff members regarding lunches provided for a field trip, it was stated by staff the lunches were kept on a bus in a cooler without any ice packs for approximately two hours at mid-day when the temperature ranged between 89 and 92 degrees with a heat advisory in effect. Staff decided not to feed the warm meat and cheese sandwiches to the students on the trip and provided a different lunch when back at the center.
OCCL Standards ComplaintAugust 14, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 17, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations for concerns of using vehicle over its intended capacity. An investigation was conducted on July 18, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for transporting more persons than the vehicle s capacity because after interviewing administration, staff members, and reviewing field trip tracking sheets, there were 10 children transported in a nine-passenger van during a field trip with two children sharing one restraint.
OCCL Standards ComplaintAugust 13, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate with Concern

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 10, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding incorrect staff-to-child ratios. An unannounced visit was conducted on July 10, 2024. Based on staff interviews and a review of attendance records, there is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for incorrect staff-to-child ratios. A concern noted at the visit was a classroom was over capacity for the number of children in the room with 24 children present in a room that has a licensing capacity of 21 children.
OCCL Standards ComplaintAugust 1, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate with Concern

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 8, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding lack of supervision, unqualified staff, and cell phone use by staff. An investigation was conducted on July 10, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for lack of supervision, staff using a cell phone, or unqualified staff because Child #1 is not a staff member, is not an enrolled child, and, per Children of America (COA) policy, is not old to be a volunteer. Child #1 was at the facility and was observed in the hallway, unsupervised. Child #1 was not observed to have been alone with child care children. An additional concern is that the center did not follow COA policy regarding age limits for volunteers. LS #1 received a copy of the COA policy from Administrator #2 confirming Child #1 would not be able to volunteer at this time. Administrator #1 stated Child #1 would not be in the building after July 10, 2024.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJuly 23, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On June 28, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of improper discipline. An investigation was conducted beginning on July 3, 2024, and concluding on July 22, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for improper discipline based on interviews of staff who stated they witnessed Staff #1 yelling at children and grabbing or holding them inappropriately. Staff #1 was put on administrative leave and subsequently resigned their position.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJuly 23, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On June 18, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations including improper discipline and using a cell phone while caring for children. An investigation was conducted on June 21, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for cell phone usage while caring for children. This specialist observed Staff #1 using a cell phone while in the classroom with children. The complaint is substantiated for improper discipline. Administrative staff stated Staff #1 was counseled regarding improper discipline and was terminated from employment on June 25, 2024.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJuly 23, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 8, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding multiple allegations including failure to report a significant incident to parents and failure to report suspected child abuse and neglect to the hotline. An unannounced visit was conducted on July 10, 2024. This complaint is substantiated regarding failure to notify the Child Abuse and Neglect Report Line of potential child abuse or neglect. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for failure to report a significant incident to parents. Administrator #1 stated the parents were notified by phone and in person with an observation form stating the findings.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJuly 22, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On June 18, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding allegations of staff performing other tasks while caring for children and a lack of interactions with children. An investigation was conducted on June 21, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for performing other tasks while caring for children. Staff #1 stated they used an iPad for other tasks while caring for children. This complaint is substantiated for not interacting with children. Staff #1 stated to the licensing specialists they sometimes use an iPad for non-work-related functions while caring for children. The administrator and other staff members stated Staff #1 has been observed using an iPad while caring for children and not interacting with children in care.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJuly 15, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On June 12, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding transportation and field trip regulations and mealtime requirements. An unannounced visit was conducted on June 17, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for not following transportation and field trip regulations. Upon interviewing staff members and administration, reviewing documentation, and observing the vehicles, it was noted that the bus and van were missing required items: emergency water and emergency contact information. Field trip attendance tracking documentation was also missing, four children were missing field trip permission slips, improper information on permission slips, transporting more children and adults than the vehicle s capacity, not using child-safety restraints as required by State and federal laws, transporting a child in a staff member s personal vehicle, and incorrect staff-to-child ratio while operating the vehicles. This complaint is substantiated for meals and snacks. There was no current menu available on the date of the complaint visit.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJuly 8, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On May 27, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding kitchen sanitation and children having access to the kitchen. An investigation was begun on May 29, 2024, and concluded on May 30, 2024. This complaint is substantiated for kitchen sanitation. The specialists observed food preparation areas, walls, and floors were in poor condition containing food splatters, dust build-up, and porous areas on most cabinets and the counter space. LS Strachan observed the full trashcan did not have a lid. This complaint is also substantiated for children having access to the kitchen. At the unannounced visit on May 29, 2024, the specialists observed the kitchen door was open with cleaning chemicals out on the floor and no staff present in or around the kitchen. On the following day, LS Strachan observed the kitchen door was again open with no staff member present.
OCCL Standards ComplaintJune 25, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On June 6, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding cell phone usage while caring for children, lack of respectful communication by staff, and not following policy for handling complaints from parents. This complaint is substantiated for cell phone usage while caring for children. This specialist observed Staff #1 using a cell phone while on the playground with children. This complaint is substantiated for lack of respectful communication as four staff members all stated they hear cursing between staff members in the center that is sometimes loud. There is no evidence to substantiate the complaint for handling parent complaints, as the administrator stated she handles parents complaints the best she can.
Complaint VisitJune 21, 2024

1 regulation cited at this visit.

26U — Staffing
Ensure staff are engaged and not using cell phones during staff-to-child-ratio. Staff #1 was using her cell phone while supervising children. Staff members providing care for children may not be given other duties or participate in personal activities, such as using a cell phone that would interfere with providing care to children. Staff #1 used a cell phone while providing care to children and was terminated from employment.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 21, 2024 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due June 21, 2024

Unannounced Full Compliance ReviewJune 6, 2024

12 regulations cited at this visit.

27U — Ratios, Group Size, and Supervision
On June 5, 2024, two unqualified DEEDS staff members were in the classroom alone with children.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 6, 2024 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due June 6, 2024

30U — Personnel Files
Ensure staff files are completed. Safe Sleep/Adult Abuse needed for Staff #1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10. Release of Employment and Service letters (with attempts if needed) for Staff #8 and 14. OCCL Health and Safety training needed for Staff #8. DEEDS certificates sent to OCCL. Professional Development Plans filled out with staff goals for every staff member. Health appraisal with TB for Staff #14. Full file for Staff #11,12,13.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 22, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

40U — Child Files
Ensure children's files are complete. Health appraisals are needs for Child #7, 8, 14. Immunizations are needed for Child #8, 14. Blood Lead screening is needed for Child #5, 8 and 14. Parents Right to Know form and Screen time is needed for Child #11, 13, and 15. Mat permission is needed for Child #11.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 19, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

49U — Indoor Space
Ensure indoor space meets qualifications. Infant A- clean vents and walls free of dust. Toddler B- Clean floor, remove clutter from changing table and above cubbies. Two's room repair or replace carpet covering which is pealing away from the wall. School age classroom needs a full cleaning to remove dust and grime, empty trash cans, remove pipe casing, ensure outlets are covered, bathroom needs trash cans, needs soap and water and sanitizer bottles. Preschool 1 needs covered trashcans in both the classroom and the bathroom, the exhaust fan needs cleaned. PreK B needs trash can in bathroom.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 19, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

50U — Kitchen and Food Preparation
Ensure kitchen surfaces and backsplash are clean and grime/food are removed. Ensure sanitizer (3rd sink) is emptied each day.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 3, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due June 12, 2024

53U — Outdoor Area
Ensure outdoor area meets qualifications. Outside fountain is leaking and needs repair. Gate between both playgrounds doesn't self-latch and needs repair or replaced. Remove broken tote and cats from playground. Trash can on larger playground needs emptied.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 10, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

56U — Sleeping Accommodations and Safe Sleep Environments
Ensure cribs are free of al materials. Store infant carriers outside of the classroom.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 10, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

57U — Equipment
Ensure classrooms have enough equipment in good conditions. PreK B couch needs to be cleaned or replaced. Toddler A remove or replace dramatic play sink (bin insert is missing)

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 30, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

61U — Diapering and Soiled Clothing
Ensure Toddler A and B need foot activated trash cans

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 10, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

66U — Emergency Planning
Ensure monthly fire drills are conducted. Send June's to OCCL.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 19, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due June 30, 2024

74U — Lesson Plans
Ensure lesson plans are conducted/posted. Send week OF June 17th to OCCL.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 30, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due June 14, 2024

75U — Activity Areas
Ensure classrooms have adequate amounts of materials. Two's classroom needs books.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 30, 2024 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 5, 2024

OCCL Standards ComplaintMay 23, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 25, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding concerns of improper staff-to-child ratios and lack of respectful communication. An unannounced visit was conducted on April 26, 2024. This complain is substantiated for lack of respectful communication because upon interviewing staff and reading staff members written statements, Staff #2 spoke in a disrespectful manner to other staff in the presence of children. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for incorrect staff-to-child ratios. Upon review of classroom attendance records, the necessary changes with staff-to-child ratios were adjusted in a timely manner.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 24, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 8, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding improper discipline. An unannounced visit was conducted on April 10, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate improper discipline. Upon interviewing staff members, reading each written statement, and reviewing video footage, there is no evidence to substantiate improper evidence.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 12, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 1, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding improper staff-to-child ratios. An unannounced visit was conducted on April 2, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for improper staff-to-child ratios. Upon review of the attendance records, observations at the visit, and staff interviews, each classroom was maintaining the correct staff-to-child ratio.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 12, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 3, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding staff qualifications. An unannounced visit was conducted on April 10, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for staff qualifications. LS Strachan reviewed the qualifications of each staff member and observed all classrooms to have the required number of qualified staff. No unqualified staff were observed or documented as having been alone with children.
OCCL Standards ComplaintApril 12, 2024Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 3, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding disrespectful communication by a staff member. An unannounced visit was conducted on April 10, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for disrespectful communication. LS Strachan interviewed multiple staff members and administration and all staff interviewed denied knowledge of any threats having been made by another staff member.
OCCL Standards ComplaintMarch 26, 2024Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On March 11, 2024, the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding not following illness exclusions and respectful communications. An unannounced visit was conducted on March 12, 2024. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for not following health exclusions. Upon review of documentation, interviewing the administrator and staff members, there is no breach in the illness policy for Children of America (COA) or OCCL. This investigation is substantiated for not using respectful communication. Upon review of COA handbook and interactions during the investigation, it was determined the administrator does not maintain respectful tones and actions when speaking to others in the center.
OCCL Standards ComplaintDecember 21, 2023Result: No Evidence to Substantiate with Concern

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

The Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint on November 22, 2023, regarding improper discipline and releasing confidential information. An investigation started on November 27, 2023, and concluded on December 19, 2023. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for improper discipline because most staff interviewed stated they did not see Staff #1 push or assault Child #1. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for releasing confidential information because based on interviews, no confidential staff or child information was disclosed. An additional concern noted was staff members were not communicating respectfully to others at the center. All staff members interviewed stated multiple staff members were yelling in the hallway during the incident. Two staff reported hearing inappropriate language used.
OCCL Standards ComplaintSeptember 11, 2023Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

The Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received two complaints from the same reporter on August 18, 2023, regarding improper discipline. An investigation was begun on August 18, 2023, and concluded on August 24, 2023. This complaint is substantiated for improper discipline as the staff member admitted to using improper discipline. The center terminated the staff member s employment on August 28, 2023.
Complaint VisitAugust 23, 2023

1 regulation cited at this visit.

20U — Positive Behavior Management
Ensure staff are using positive support discipline. Ensure no staff uses following actions: hitting, grabbing, and yelling at any children. Staff #1 was interviewed and admitted to using improper discipline actions. A licensee shall ensure the following actions are prohibited: Roughly handling a child or physical punishment inflicted on a child's body, including, but not limited to the following: shaking, grabbing, striking, hairpulling, biting, pinching, plucking, slapping, hitting, kicking, or spanking: yelling at, humiliating, or frightening children. Staff #1 admitted to using improper discipline. Staff #1 was terminated from employment on August 28, 2023.

Correction status: Completed · corrected August 28, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due August 28, 2023

Unannounced Full Compliance ReviewJune 13, 2023

7 regulations cited at this visit.

20U — Positive Behavior Management
Staff #11 was overheard using food as a punishment. OCCL will assign a training for staff #11 to complete.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 17, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 14, 2023

30U — Personnel Files
All staff files need to be complete. All staff must complete the 7 hour OCCL Health & Safety training. Send certs once completed. Staff #11 needs Health Appraisal, Administration of Medication. Staff #14 needs staff Orientation record, application/resume, job description, adult abuse registry, Health Appraisal w/TB. Staff #12 needs Administration of Medication. Staff #1, #2, #4, #5, #6, #9, #13, need updated Eligibility dates.

Correction status: Completed · corrected August 24, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 14, 2023

38U — Parents Right to Know
A copy of updated Parent's Right to Know Log will be sent by July 14, 2023.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 14, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 14, 2023

40U — Child Files
All child files must be complete. Send documentation of the Blood Lead screening for Child #4.

Correction status: Completed · corrected July 14, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 14, 2023

49U — Indoor Space
Refrigerator/freezer in classroom Pre-K A needs to be cleaned. Send a picture upon completion.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 15, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 14, 2023

51U — Toilet Facilities
Bathrooms in Pre-K A need to be cleaned. Send a picture upon completion.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 15, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 14, 2023

74U — Lesson Plans
Current lesson plans must be posted. Send a picture of classroom 2's lesson plans when updated.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 23, 2023 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 14, 2023

OCCL Standards ComplaintDecember 8, 2022Result: No Evidence to Substantiate

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On November 30, 2022, The Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) received a complaint regarding improper discipline. An investigation was conducted on December 1, 2022. There is no evidence to substantiate this complaint for improper discipline because the staff interviewed stated they have never observed the staff use improper discipline. Based on statements from staff, what was reported was a misunderstanding. While walking with the child, the staff was holding the child s arm when the child pulled away and fell.
OCCL Standards ComplaintAugust 9, 2022Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On July 27, 2022, OCCL received a complaint regarding lack of supervision at Children of America-Wilmington. An investigation began on August 3, 2022, and concluded on August 5, 2022. The complaint is substantiated for lack of supervision because several staff interviewed stated there are several instances where children were alone sitting in the kitchen hallway when Staff #2 was cooking in the kitchen. Technical assistance was given to the staff members regarding not receiving children into the center when there is not enough staff coverage or to contact parents to pick child up. Other concerns noted were several staff members stated the classrooms are out of ratio, they are concerned for children s safety, and infants are confined in a buggy for more than an hour on several occasions.
Unannounced Full Compliance ReviewJune 9, 2022

9 regulations cited at this visit.

30U — Personnel Files
Ensure all staff files are complete. Staff #1 needs administration of medication.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 15, 2022

40U — Child Files
Ensure all child files are complete. Child #3 needs an emergency card and blood lead screen results. Child #4 needs a parents right to know form and permission for screen time. Child # 5 needs date of enrollment, days and hours of attendance, and permission for transportation form. Child # 9 needs blood lead screening results. Child #11 needs hours and days of attendance and permission for transportation. Child #20 needs hours of attendance.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 15, 2022

49U — Indoor Space
Ensure all areas are clean. Multiple classrooms needed walls and shelves wiped down. Corrected at visit.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due June 9, 2022

50U — Kitchen and Food Preparation
Ensure all thermometers are working. Replace thermometers in Pre-K and Infant freezers. Corrected at visit.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due June 9, 2022

51U — Toilet Facilities
Ensure paper towels are in bathrooms and bathrooms are clean. Corrected at visit

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due June 9, 2022

58U — Sanitation
Ensure all toys are cleaned weekly. Toddlers and infants need to clean toys.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 15, 2022

61U — Diapering and Soiled Clothing
Ensure the diaper changing mat is free from rips. Corrected at the visit.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due June 9, 2022

72U — Feeding of Infants
Ensure all infants have infant feeding schedules completed by a parent. Send feeding schedules for Child # 8 and #22.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Document · correction was due July 15, 2022

74U — Lesson Plans
Ensure all classrooms have lesson plans completed and posted. PII-A needs a lesson plan. Corrected at the visit.

Correction status: Completed · corrected June 9, 2022 · how corrected: Facility Visit · correction was due June 9, 2022

OCCL Standards ComplaintMay 13, 2022Result: Substantiated

A complaint investigation. The state's result is shown above, and the investigator's conclusion follows.

On April 13, 2022, OCCL received a complaint regarding improper staff-to-child ratios at Children of America-Wilmington. An investigation began on April 26, 2022 ,and concluded on May 9, 2022. The complaint is substantiated for improper child-to-staff ratios because several staff interviewed stated one staff member was present with two infants, a school-ager, and several toddlers alone in the mornings and Ms. Orlando was often late. Technical assistance was given to Clara Orlando and the staff members regarding allowing a floater to clock in earlier.

Something look wrong — a name, an address, a record that should not be public at this level of detail? Report it on the corrections page. Reports about the level of detail are acted on first: the record is paused while the report is reviewed.

CHILDREN OF AMERICA-WILMINGTON — Wilmington Child Care Inspection Record | Daycare Safety Record