# Apple of My Eye, Dublin 11 — inspection reports and findings

> Apple of My Eye (Dublin 11, Co. Dublin): what Tusla inspections found — 4 published inspection(s), non-compliances and the provider's corrective actions.

## Apple of My Eye

Sessional · 1 - 6 Years · Dublin 11, Dublin · Tusla ID **TU2015DY009** · Registered since 1 January 2026

An inspection records what inspectors saw **on one day**; services respond with corrective actions — [how to read this](/methodology.md).

#### Inspection of 23 March 2026 — Inspection Report

Full report (PDF, Tusla)

##### Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

- General Safety: 1. The temperatures of the following radiators which were uncovered and accessible to children exceeded the recommended temperature of 43oC, and as a result posed a potential scald risk to the children. • A temperature of 52.1oC was recorded at 10.08am on a radiator in the first-floor hallway. It is acknowledged that this radiator was switched off and no longer posed an immediate scald risk to the children. • A temperature of 45.6oC was recorded at 10.09am on a radiator in the Tigers preschool room. 2. Blind cords were observed to be unsecured and potentially accessible to the children in the Toddler room which could pose serious injury risk. It is acknowledged these were removed out of reach of children when brought to the attention of the staff in the care room. 3. The water temperature in the wash hand basin accessible to the children in the Tigers preschool room exceeded the recommended temperature of 43oC. A temperature of 45.1oC was recorded by the inspector at 10.17am. This posed a scald risk to the children. 4. The nappy changing unit which was fixed to the wall in the Junior Cubs room was not suitable for the age range of children in the room who used it. The unit was recommended for the use of infants under the age of 12 months and the children in the care room who used the unit were aged over three years old. This posed a potential risk of becoming unsecured or unstable causing a risk of injury. 5. A cleaning spray was observed to be potentially accessible to children in the sanitary room used by the children in the Tigers preschool room. This posed a potential risk to the safety of children. 6. The following trailing flexes were accessible to the children which posed a potential injury risk to children: • The press under the sink in the Tigers preschool room was unsecured and a set of fairy lights was accessible. • The cable from the audio monitor in the cot room. Infection Control: The following increased the potential risk of infection: 7. Hand towels were not hygienically dispensed in the sanitary room used by the children in the Tigers preschool room. The paper-roll available required repeated touch of the inner tube, increasing the risk of potential cross contamination. 8. There were no toilet rolls accessible to the children in Toddler Sanitary. Children should have access to dispensed toilet rolls to facilitate hygienic toileting. 9. The laminate on the door of the press in the Tigers preschool room was cracked leaving a surface that could not be effectively cleaned. 10. The foot pedal mechanism on the nappy bin in the Toddler sanitary room was not working effectively. Hand touch was required to fully open the bin. 11. Laundry set out to dry on a radiator was observed to be trailing on the floor, which increased the risk of cross contamination. 12. The following increased the risk of cross contamination as the surface did not facilitate effective cleaning: • The soft play matting in the sensory room was observed to be partially frayed on the corners, with foam exposed, and the surface of some of the mats had a sticky residue. • The soft play matting in the Wobbler room was observed to be partially frayed on the corners, with foam exposed. Administration of Medication: 13. A child’s inhaler was observed to be stored in a child’s bag, which was potentially accessible to children and was not in line with the service policy on the storage of medication 14. Expired medication, which was stored in a child’s medication bag was not disposed of in line with safe practice and the service policy on the storage of medication. Safe Sleep: 15. The service did not adhere to safe sleep practice in line with national guidance and their safe sleep policy. The following was observed: • Children were put to sleep in their cots lying down with bottles. It is acknowledged staff removed the bottles. • A child was observed to be asleep with a cuddly toy. Although checks were completed on the child, these checks did not remove the toy after they went asleep. This was identified as a noncompliance on the last inspection on the 21 October 2025 and the preventive action put in place failed to prevent a recurrence. Safe sleep guidelines recommend that children should not sleep with bottles, toys or other items. Fire Safety: 16. The details of the attendance of the children in the Tigers preschool room were not recorded on the day of the inspection. Staff reported a fault with the software used to record the attendance of the children on the day of the inspection; however, an alternative method of recording was not used. Contemporaneous accurate attendance logs must be maintained to support the safe evacuation of children in an emergency. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

- General Safety: 1. The registered provider reports that new head valves (individual temperature controls) had been fitted to all radiators a week prior to the inspection, and this caused the temperatures of some of the radiators to be above 43℃. The temperature of all radiators was re-set to be below 43℃ when the issue was raised on the day of the inspection. The current risk assessment checks the temperatures of radiators. 2. One blind cord was removed, and the other secured properly on the day of the inspection. The service will ensure checks of blind cords will be carried out weekly and report that staff are aware that they must be vigilant to alert management to any safety issues regarding the blinds and their cords. 3. A device was fitted to the tap to restrict the water temperature, which is now reported as being within the correct range. The service will continue to assess the water temperature. 4. The service report they will no longer use the nappy change unit and have a new process for nappy changing for the children in the room who may require a nappy change. 5. The service report that cleaning products were removed on the day of the inspection and have displayed a notice to ensure cleaning agents are no longer stored in the area. 6. The service report that fairy lights were removed from the press in the Tigers room on the day of inspection. The audio monitor is usually kept on the shelf in the cot room, and it was reinstated to this position on the day of inspection, once the issue was raised. A memo was sent to all staff highlighting safe practice. Infection Control: 7. The service report that staff were advised of the importance of having hand towels appropriately dispensed. Daily sanitary area checklists were issued for staff to complete 3 times per day, to ensure sanitary areas remain compliant at all times. 8. The service report that staff were advised of the importance of having toilet rolls appropriately dispensed. Daily sanitary area checklists were issued for staff to complete 3 times per day, to ensure sanitary areas remain compliant at all times. 9. A waterproof tape was fixed to press door, leaving the surface wipeable. 10. The nappy bin was removed and replaced with a different foot pedal bin on the day of the inspection, once the issue was raised. The registered will ensure appropriate bins will be purchased for use in the future. 11. The trailing laundry was removed, and staff were reminded of hygienic laundry practice. 12. The service report that the sensory room mats which were damaged have been disposed of and the corners of the soft play cube in the Wobbler room have been sealed with waterproof tape. They will ensure to monitor the condition of the equipment as part of risk assessments. Administration of Medication: 13. The inhaler was removed immediately. The registered provider will ensure medication will no longer be stored in bags. 14. The expired medication was immediately removed and the service report that medication expiry date and condition checks have been added to their weekly risk management checklists. Safe Sleep: 15. The service will ensure that bottles are now given in the wobbler room before the children are brought into the cot room and that toys will be removed once a child has fallen asleep. Staff were reminded of the safe sleep policy, and a notice is displayed in the cot room. Fire Safety: 16. Staff were reminded of the procedure of recording attendance in the event that they are unable to log attendance using the tablet

Found compliant: Regulation 9, 11, 19, 22.

#### Inspection of 21 October 2025 — Inspection Report

Full report (PDF, Tusla)

##### Regulation 9 — Management and recruitment

- (1) The registered provider did not ensure that: (b) A review of the roster, and observation on the day of the inspection established that the person in charge or the deputy person in charge was not rostered to be present from 8.00am to 9.30am or from 5.00pm to 6.00pm. A person assigned with an agreed decision-making role must be present at all times during the operational hours of the service. (2) Although it is acknowledged that there were five written and verified references, three from a recent past employer and two from a reputable source, there was no evidence that the following was available: (a) One reference from a previous employer had not been verified by the registered provider to establish its validity for a new staff member. (b) Two references from a reputable source had not been verified by the registered provider to establish their validity. These had been reviewed on the last inspection. (3) Documentary evidence available showed that the checks outlined in (2) had not been carried out prior to the adults having contact with the children in the service. Appropriate checks on adults must be completed prior to them having access to the children in order to establish they are suitable and competent to work in the service. This was identified as a non-compliance on the previous inspection held on the 26 February 2025 and actions put in place failed to prevent a recurrence

- (b) The registered provider has reported that staff have been identified as holding the role of the person in charge. A copy of the roles and responsibilities of the person in charge is now displayed in the service. A memo was sent to staff identifying the person in charge and their role and responsibilities. (2) Evidence was submitted that the three references have been verified. The registered provider commits to ensuring that all references will be verified before commencement of employment. (3) The induction checklist has been updated and amended to include all checks must be completed in advance of the employee start date. This has been clearly outlined to management for future reference

##### Regulation 19 — Health, welfare and development of child

- (a) The registered provider did not ensure the following: 1. The registered provider did not ensure that staff interactions were timely and responsive to children's needs and supportive of children’s learning and development as demonstrated by the following findings in the Toddler room: • Staff did not respond in a timely manner to a child’s cues indicating an interest in a paint activity, with the child having to wait for almost 67 minutes before staff responded. The child was observed to verbally communicate they would like to paint at 10.35am. Staff reported to the inspector at 11.27am they were aware of the child’s interest and brought some paper and an apron for the child, and at 11.41am the child was given some paint. Staff should respond appropriately in a timely manner to a child’s communication cues in order for a child to be assured they are communicating effectively. • In the Toddler room there was no clear plan for activities that considered the needs of children such as the age and stage of the children, timing, and the children’s interests. Children require a planned routine, developed in line with their need for play experiences that engages them at the level required for learning. The following was observed: - Children’s behaviour was observed to become challenging following a period of table top activities which were observed to extend from 9.48am to 10.40am. - Children were observed to wander aimlessly for 30 minutes, with no activities after cleaning up prior to dinner time. - Children were observed to be disinterested in a music and dance activity which resulted in them engaging in challenging behaviour. This was identified as a non-compliance on the last inspection on the 26 February 2025, and the actions submitted failed to prevent a recurrence. 2. There was a limited supply of books available to the 11 children present in the Toddler room, and they were maintained in poor condition. For example, only two of the nine books available were complete, with the remaining seven books either torn or with missing pages. Children require books to be complete and a story to be in sequence for it to make sense to them and for them to engage at the level required for learning. This could potentially impact on the engagement of children in early language and literacy experiences. This was identified as a non-compliance on the last inspection on the 26 February 2025

- 1. The registered provider reports that all staff members were made aware of the need to improve their responsiveness towards each child’s needs. An external support agency has been engaged to commence training with staff form the 27 November on supporting the environment for child led learning. 2. The registered provider will ensure that damaged books are replaced and that there will be a supply of books available. The service will continue to monitor children’s engagement with books

##### Regulation 22 — Food and drink

- The registered provider did not ensure that there was an adequate supply of food available or that a suitable alternative meal of similar nutritious value was available. This is not in line with national guidelines on food and nutrition. The following was observed: • An additional portion of a hot meal was not provided to a child who indicated they wanted more. An apple was offered as the alternative to an additional portion of dinner however the child became upset and threw the apple across the table, indicating that they did not want it. • Staff advised that a hot alternative is not provided to children who do not want the hot meal provided and that the alternative consists of crackers, cheese and yogurt. This was observed to be offered as an alternative for one child who staff reported do not eat rice and curry. This was identified as a non-compliance on the last inspection held on the 26 February 2025

- The registered provider has reported that they have increased the order from the external catering company to allow for additional portions of hot meals. The service will continue to monitor meal portions, ensuring that there are sufficient additional portions on days that the children want more than usual. Management have been made aware that particular attention must be placed when there are meals with specific dietary requirements required for children who cannot share the regular portions

##### Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

- General Safety: 1. The risk assessments available in the service were unsuitable and were not used appropriately which resulted in hazards not being appropriately identified and effectively mitigated. This was not in line with the service Risk Management policy. For example: • The garden risk assessment template available could potentially result in important checks which should be carried out on a daily basis not being completed. • The risk assessment template used for the rooms did not clearly identify potential hazards to check on a daily basis. This lack of appropriate checks resulted in the non-compliances detailed in points 2-7 below. This was identified as a non-compliance on the last inspection held on the 26 February 2025, and the response submitted failed to prevent a recurrence. 2. The emergency exit door on the first floor was observed to be propped open, leaving the emergency stairway potentially accessible to children from the Playschool room who were observed to leave the room unsupervised to access the toilet. The stairway was made of a metal grid, which posed a trip or slip hazard if accessed by unsupervised children. 3. A broken shelf with nails protruding from it was observed propped against the wall on the first-floor hallway, which was accessible to children on the morning of the inspection. This posed a potential risk of injury. 4. Trailing flexes were noted within reach of children within the Playschool and Junior Cubs rooms and posed a potential injury risk. This was identified as a non-compliance on the last inspection held on the 26 February 2025. The corrective action provided has not been maintained and the preventative action submitted failed to prevent a recurrence. 5. A bottle of cleaning spray was stored in a box in the sanitary area of the Junior Cubs room was observed to be accessible to children. This posed a potential injury risk to children. This was identified as a non- compliance on the last inspection held on the 26 February 2025, and the actions submitted failed to prevent a recurrence. 6. An open can of energy drink was stored in the fridge in the Playschool room which was accessible to children. This drink is unsuitable for children and posed a potential risk of harm if ingested. Infection Control: The following increased the potential risk of infection: 7. Bed linen which was reported to be recently laundered was observed to be placed on the floor of the hallway prior to being stored in children’s individual bed linen bags. This increased the risk of cross contamination. 8. Appropriately dispensed toilet rolls were not available in the following sanitary areas: • There was no toilet roll available in the toilet used by the children in the Playschool room. • The toilet roll in the toilet off the Toddler room was not hygienically dispensed. 9. A staff member was observed to bring a plate of food into the toilet area off the toddler room prior to giving it to a child. 10. There was a build-up of dirt and debris in the Toddler room indicating ineffective cleaning practices which increased the potential risk of cross contamination. The following was observed: • There was dust, dirt and used pieces of play dough in the bottom of the box of books. • The six cushions in the room were observed to be visibly dirty and stained. • There was a build-up of dirt and debris in the crevice along a low-level window ledge. • There was a build-up of dirt on the two plastic step-ups used by the children in the sanitary area. • There was a build-up of dust on the ventilation unit in the sanitary area. It is acknowledged that the cleaning records for the room were completed to date however this was not sufficient to prevent the build-up of dirt. 11. Three foam mattresses which were used for sleep by children from the Toddler room were observed to be ripped which prevented effective cleaning. This was identified as a non-compliance on the last inspection held on the 26 February 2025, and the actions submitted failed to prevent a recurrence. Administration of Medication: 12. The procedures for the administration of medication were not sufficient to support effective safe practice. The information included in the care plans for two children on specific medication did not clearly detail required information which could result in a delay responding to their health needs. The following was observed: • The care plan for one child did not clearly detail the sign and symptoms to look for or indicate when to administer the medication. • The care plan for one child did not clearly detail where the medication was stored. Safe Sleep: Sleep practices were not in line with current safe sleep guidance or the service policy on Safe Sleep. 13. Staff did not carry out appropriate physical sleep checks on children which can have a potential risk to the safety of children while sleeping. The following was observed: • A child was observed to be asleep in a cot with a comfort toy up against their face. This was removed by the inspector. • A child was observed to drink a bottle while lying down nodding off to sleep. • The inspector observed that staff did not complete a full check of the colour, breathing and position of sleeping children as staff did not check the children at the end of the cot room. • A record of children’s sleep checks was not maintained in a timely manner. This was not in line with safe sleep guidance which states sleep checks should be completed every 10 minutes. For example, a review of sleep records showed three children who were recorded as asleep at 12.09pm were not recorded as being checked until 12.42pm. This was identified as a non-compliance on the last inspection held on the 26 February 2025, and the actions submitted failed to prevent a recurrence. Fire Safety: 14. Staff did not respond in line with the service policy and procedures when the fire alarm was activated. The service policy on Fire Safety stated that on hearing the fire alarm staff should stop what they are doing and evacuate the building. It is acknowledged that the alarm was triggered accidently, however not all staff and children were aware of the cause of the alarm and staff did not follow the evacuation procedure. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

- General Safety: 1. A comprehensive risk assessment checklist was developed and is now in use on a daily basis. The registered provider ensures this will be reviewed periodically and amended as required and is in addition to a monthly risk assessment already in use. 2. A memo was shared with staff advising them of the concerns raised in the inspection report. The service will ensure this door will be closed at all times. There is now a sign in place reminding staff to ensure the door is kept closed. 3. The registered provider reports that the staff team were immediately advised that broken or damaged equipment must be stored in any of the 2 storerooms on site and never left accessible to children. A memo was shared with staff advising them of the concerns raised in the inspection report. 4. The registered provider will ensure that flexes are secured, and this is now included in daily risk assessments. 5. All cleaning products were moved out of reach and a sign is now in place advising staff not to store cleaning products on the windowsill. This is included in the risk assessment. 6. The can was removed on the day of the inspection. A memo was shared with staff advising them of the concerns raised in the inspection report. The service will ensure that only children’s food and drinks will be stored in the fridge. Infection Control: 7. The registered provider reports that this was an oversight will not be repeated. A memo was shared with staff advising them of the concerns raised in the inspection report. 8. Toilet rolls were put in the appropriate dispensers. A memo was shared with staff advising them of the concerns raised in the inspection report. This is included in the daily risk checklist. 9. A memo was shared with staff advising them of the concerns raised in the inspection report, and of this inappropriate practice. The registered provider ensures this will not be repeated. 10. The registered provider reported that the areas reported were thoroughly cleaned, and that the steps in the sanitary area were replaced. The daily risk assessment includes a check on cleaning the condition of equipment to ensure this is maintained. 11. The foam mattresses were immediately disposed of. The condition of mattress will be checked on a daily basis. Administration of Medication: 12. Both care plans were updated, and the care plan template was updated to include missing information. Safe Sleep: 13. A memo was shared with staff advising them of the concerns raised in the inspection report, and all staff are now aware of the requirement to complete and document a sleep check for all children. The service report sleep check records are now being monitored daily, and reminders sent to team members if necessary. This role has been appointed to the deputy manager as part of their daily checks. Fire Safety: 14. The registered provider reports that all team members were advised they must follow procedures on the sound of the fire alarm. The service had a fire awareness action for the month of November to raise awareness

Found compliant: Regulation 11.

#### Inspection of 26 February 2025 — Inspection Report

Full report (PDF, Tusla)

**Immediate action notice.** An Immediate Action Notice was issued to the person in charge on the 26 February 2025 under

##### Regulation 9 — Management and recruitment

- (a) The registered provider did not ensure that two references from a previous employer were verified prior to a staff member commencing within the service. (b) The registered provider did not ensure that four references from someone other than a previous employer were verified prior to a staff member commencing within the service. (d) The registered provider did not ensure that police vetting was available in relation to two adults who had lived in a country other than Ireland for a period of six months or more as an adult. (3) A review of the documentation available showed that the registered provider did not complete the checks required under point 2 above before the commencement of employment for three staff members. (4) The registered provider did not ensure that one adult who worked directly with the children held at least a major award in Early childhood Care and Education at Level 5 on the National Qualifications Framework, or a qualification deemed by the Minister to be equivalent

- (a) (b) The registered provider has ensured that a written reference is on file for one staff member. The registered provider states that they have continued to contact the references for one staff member but to no avail, they stated they will continue to attempt contact and log the attempts. They stated they also email a copy of reference questions to the referees if there is a language barrier or difficulty contacting, they will also log when the references have been emailed. There is six monthly probationary period with weekly reviews for all staff. (d) Police vetting for both staff members are now on file, an employee checklist will be reviewed by the registered provider prior to an employee’s start date. The importance of not filing away staff files until they have been completed in full, and completing the new start checklist has been highlighted with Management. The registered provider will now also ensure that she checks that the checklist has been completed when there is a new start. (3) The registered provider has stated that vetting was completed for two staff, validation for one staff member should have been completed, there is a log of any previous attempts made to validate references in advance of new staff starts. This will be logged on the new start checklist. Checking for vetting overseas where necessary is on our new start checklist. Vetting was missed for one staff member; this was an oversight on our part and the vetting has now been obtained. Written logs of attempts made to validate references will be logged on the new staff checklist, to show evidence of attempts. The owner will check the checklist before a new staff start. (4) A copy of a staff qualification certificate has now been added to the staff file, management and registered provider are to ensure the checklist is completed prior to an employee’s start date

##### Regulation 11 — Staffing levels

- (1) There was not a sufficient number of staff to adequately meet the care needs of the number of children within the service. For example: • There was not sufficient staff in the Wobbler Room between the 09:54 and 10:51 when a staff member was observed to tend to an upset child leaving the other children in the room to wander and play without direction or engagement from the adult. The impact of this is outlined under the non-compliances in Regulation 19, Regulation 23 and Regulation

- (1) The registered provider states that room ratios were in accordance with regulations, and they cannot control when staff call out sick, but they will continue to contact relief staff to cover and ensure we are in ratio. The registered provider states they will continue to maintain ratios and will continue to encourage staff to ask for additional support from management, if they find themselves in a situation where they feel they need it

##### Regulation 19 — Health, welfare and development of child

- 1. Transitions in the service were observed to be disorganised and unplanned and did not support the children to move between activities. The following was observed: • Children in the sensory room were given no notice when they were to move from the Sensory Room to the Toddler Room. This interrupted children’s play. • In the Toddler Room nappy changing occurred in a rushed, functional and hurried manner. Children were lifted to the nappy changing unit without any verbal indication that this was going to happen. Children were observed to be upset. This was also noted as a non-compliance on the previous inspection dated the 16 April 2024, actions put in place by the registered provider did not prevent a reoccurrence. 2. The behaviour management strategies observed was not in line with the service policy and did not adequately support the children to manage their behaviour. The following was observed: • Following a minor dispute between children a child was excluded from the group and placed on their own. The child who was hurt was not comforted. No explanation or positive strategies to resolve the conflict was offered. Children require positive strategie s in order to regulate and manage normal developmental behaviours. • Staff were not observed to implement the service behaviour management policy, for example children were observed sitting and standing on windowsills. While staff did address the behaviour, they did not provide adequate follow up. The behaviour management policy advises that rules will be applied consistently to all children and that children will be supported to understand what is expected of them. This was also noted as a non-compliance on the previous inspection dated the 16 April 2024, actions put in place by the registered provider did not prevent a reoccurrence. 3. The registered provider did not ensure children’s privacy whilst using the sanitary facilities, as a toilet door was missing from the sanitary area on the first floor. This is undignified for children using this area. 4. The layout of the equipment in the Playschool, Wobbler and Toddler rooms limited meaningful engagement with play. For example: • The preschool room did not have clearly defined areas of interest and equipment was not displayed to promote engagement for example, the shelving was turned to the wall restricting access to the equipment and dress up items were stored in an unlabelled box. • The Wobbler room was not an inviting or engaging play space, materials were not displayed in a child centred manner, for example, shelving was cluttered, toys available to children had no batteries, props were missing from the activity table preventing the development of play. • The library area in the Toddler Room was insufficiently stocked with two damaged books , limiting the choice for children wishing to engage in relaxing activities. 5. While it is acknowledged that remedial works have been undertaken in the outdoor area, the materials available were not suitable for the age range of children present. For example: • A large rubber mat was rolled up across the mud kitchen making it inaccessible to the children. • Although there was designated mark making areas. There were no readily available mark making accessories available to children. Preventing opportunities to play. • There was insufficient toys and equipment available for the younger children in the service. For example, there was one broken activity walker and two see saws available. The wooden structures in the outdoor area were too high for younger children to interact with safely. Preventing children’s opportunities for movement and exploration. • There was no quiet rest area in the outdoor environment for children who chose to take a break from outdoor activities. 6. The rest and cosy areas within the Wobbler and Toddler Rooms did not meet the needs of the children within these rooms. There was a lack of a relaxing, calming, safe space for children who wished to take a break from activities. 7. A programme of activities which was engaging and stimulating was not observed on the day of inspection. For example: • The was no evidence of when and why the Sensory room would be used. • The was no evidence of a plan for activities while in the Sensory room. The children were observed to be restless and disengaged. • There was no evidence of a plan for activities for children within the Wobbler Room. The children were observed to wander aimlessly, with no engagement and little stimulation. • It is acknowledged that there was an activity plan in the Toddler room however activities on the day were not reflected in the activities observed on the day. Children were observed to wander aimlessly and engage in free play throughout the inspection. Play is the mode for children’s learning therefore planning for children’s activities must be developed with the children’s interests and needs, a plan should be readily available and implemented during the day. This was also noted as a non-compliance on the previous two inspections in April 2023 and April 2024, actions put in place by the registered provider did not prevent a reoccurrence

- 1. The registered provider has stated that the implementation of a new, more effective routine within both the Wobbler and Toddler rooms, should make a difference to the staff ability to properly stimulate the attention of the children in our care. Regular and consistent reviews by the owner and management, of the room routine, room set-up and the staff’s interactions with children in all rooms will ensure that the policies and practices set within the service are adhered to. Consistency of routine and educators within the rooms will also provide more stability within the rooms, making it much easier to monitor the effectiveness of each of the rooms, to meet the needs of the children. The implementation of a new, more effective routine within both the Wobbler and Toddler rooms, should make a difference to the staff ability to properly stimulate the attention of the children in our care. 2. The registered provider has stated that the points in the inspection report have been covered in the staff meeting on the 3rd of April, and staff have been reminded of the need to follow the service behaviour management policy. Specifically, staff have been told that they must communicate with children verbally, using positive strategies. It has also been emphasised that staff need to be consistent with the management of the behaviour of the children in our care. Regular and consistent reviews by the owner and management, of the room routine, room set-up and staff interactions with children in all rooms will ensure that the policies and practices set within the service are adhered to. Consistency of routine and educators within the rooms will also provide more stability within the rooms, making it much easier to monitor the effectiveness of each of the rooms, to meet the needs of the children. 3. The toilet door has been reinstated and monthly checks to be carried out by the registered provider. 4. The registered provider has stated that new equipment has been installed in the Toddler Room, the new room set up is being reviewed and feedback from staff is positive, reviews will be ongoing. The Wobbler room layout has been reviewed and amended to suit the needs of the children. The preschool room was already set up with defining areas of play, the room is currently under review. There is an ongoing review of the layout of all care rooms within the creche. Priority has been given to the Toddler, Wobbler and preschool room. 5. The registered provider stated the outdoor area has been cleared of any unnecessary items that might hinder the children’s play time. Chalk for the mark making areas have been provided, and staff have been advised of its availability for the children’s use. Three benches have been ordered to allow for children to take breaks and rest in quiet areas. The smaller area of the garden can be gated off and is for the younger children in our care (1 to 2 years). The larger area of the garden includes larger wooden structures that are accessible to all other children. Access to these wooden structures is by the climbing frame and steps, which makes it easy for children of all ages from 2 years + to access equally. The climbing frame is ridged to allow for additional support when climbing. There was a review of the outdoor area, and the equipment available for the children in our care. Any broken equipment has been removed. Three new benches have been ordered, alongside new mark making areas. Staff have been made aware that there is chalk available within the service for use in the mark making areas. The benches will be placed in areas of the garden to allow children to rest and take a break from outdoor activities. The wrong benches were delivered last week, and we must wait until the correct ones have been delivered so that they can be secured to the walls to reduce the risk of them falling over. The mark making equipment will be installed by the maintenance person when the benches are delivered. 6. The registered provider has stated that there is an ongoing review of the Toddler and Wobbler rooms, that they have been set up differently with both rooms having a new layout that allows for calming spaces, wet and messy play and tabletop activities. 7. The registered provider states that the use of the sensory room for the older toddlers had only begun to be implemented the week before the inspection. This is new routine has now been set out formally, the sensory room has been set-up according to the new routine, and all staff are now aware of the use of the sensory room for toddlers’ additional activities. As with point 6, the wobbler and toddler rooms have been reviewed. The toddler room has a new routine with an immediate focus on the new set-up of the rooms. Regular and consistent reviews by the registered provider and management of the room routine, set up and staff interactions within the rooms will ensure that the practices are adhered too

##### Regulation 22 — Food and drink

- The registered provider did not ensure the following. 1. The provision of additional portions and alternative food options for children were not available for lunch: • Two children in the Wobbler Room indicated their hunger and requested more hot food haven eaten th e portion provided. Staff advised there was no additional portions of hot food available. These children were observed to become upset. It is acknowledged that children were provided with a small yoghurt. This poses a risk to children not being adequately sat iated. This was also noted as a non -compliance on the previous inspection dated the 16 April 2024, actions put in place by the registered provider did not prevent a reoccurrence. • In the Wobbler room an alternative nutritious meal was not offered to a child who did not like their lunch. It is acknowledged that a small yogurt was given as an alternative food option, with water to drink. There were no other food options given until 14 :30. Staff stated a yoghurt is given as an alternative food choice. This was also noted as a non-compliance on the previous inspection dated the 16 April 2024, actions put in place by the registered provider did not prevent a reoccurrence. 2. In the Wobbler room water was not easily accessible to children. This prevents children to self-regulate their water intake and develop safe thirst cues

- 1. The registered provider has stated that some foods provided by our food provider spread further than others. Sometimes, children will eat more of particular foods than they did on a previous day when the same food was offered but they will always offer additional servings to children when they request it, and we continue to review and increase the portions of particular meals that are provided, there will be times when there are insufficient portions for more than 2 additional servings. The registered provider stated that the service will offer yogurts and fruit to children as an additional food offering, to supplement when more food is requested. Where a child is known to refuse food on a regular basis, staff partner with parents and allow them to send in a food option from home, which is offered at meals times. It is my understanding that on the day of the inspection the children who were requesting more food, had already had 2 portions. The children in our care are not left hungry and the offering of yoghurt and fruit was in addition to the 2 servings given to the children in question. We now offer an additional snack between lunch and dinner. 2. The registered provider stated that water is available to children in the Wobbler room at mealtimes with accessibility at all times made available. Wobblers have been mixed with the Toddlers and water is readily available in the Toddler room. The practice when the numbers in the Wobbler room increase will be to leave water beakers within reach of the children in the room

##### Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

- General Safety: 1. The temperature of the two radiators which were accessible to children exceeded the recommended temperature of 43 degrees. This posed a scald risk to the children. The inspector recorded a temperature of 51.7°C in the Toddler room and 53.6°C in the sensory room. An IAN was issued to the service in respect to this risk. This was a non-compliance recorded in April 2024. The actions taken by the registered provider to rectify this non-compliance has been insufficient. 2. The registered provider did not ensure that daily risk assessments were completed for both the indoor and outdoor areas, preventing the identification of new hazards and risks to the children’s safety and wellbeing within the service. For example: • In the cot room documentation displayed on the wall indicated reviews this area had not been completed since 6 January 2025. Cots in use were observed to be dirty. • In the outdoor area there was no documentary evidence of a risk assessment having been completed prior to children accessing this area. Rubbish was discarded in the outdoor area, exposing children to harmful materials. • Risk assessments/schedules identifying hazards such as blocked fire exits were not completed since 6 January 2025. The lack of a daily risk assessment and schedules prevents hazards from being identified promptly and acted upon to ensure children’s safety and welfare is maintained, practice is not in line with the service Policy on risk assessments. 3. The climbing wall did not have a suitable anti slip surface and was unguarded, preventing children to engage in safe risky play. Children were observed to slip and fall whilst attempting to use the climbing wall. This is posed a potential area for injury. 4. In the Wobbler room small cylindrical shaped crayons were accessible to children. Exposing children to choking hazards. 5. Plastic bags were accessible to children in the Preschool Rooms and Toddler Rooms, posing a potential choking hazard. Infection Control: 6. Mattresses in the cot room were stained and did not have washable covers. This prevents suitable cleaning practices and has the potential to harbour harmful bacteria. Cot check list for the cot room was last updated on the 6th of January 2025. 7. Foam mattresses were noted to be torn and ripped in both the Cot room and Toddler/ECCE rooms. Preventing effective cleaning. 8. Handwashing practices were not consistent throughout the service or in line with the service Policy on Handwashing. For example, • Handwashing did not occur prior or after mealtimes within the Wobbler room. • Staff were observed to handle eating utensils and open the bin lids without washing their hands. • Handwashing did not occur after returning from the Outdoor area in the Toddler room. • Handwashing did not occur after preforming nasal hygiene. • A child’s hands were not adequately washed after nappy changing. This potentially exposes children to harmful bacteria and cross contamination. 9. Bins were broken with lids missing in the care rooms and sanitary areas throughout the service and did not provide for hygienic disposal of waste. 10. Water temperatures were noted to be in excess of the recommended 43°C in the following rooms. • In the Preschool Room the mixer tap which was accessible to children was recorded as 48.2. °C at 10:16am • In the sanitary area opposite the ECCE room water which was accessible to children was recorded as 45.6°C. at 11:41am. 11. Cleaning procedures were ineffective within the service. There were up to date cleaning schedules completed in the care rooms, sanitary areas and outdoor areas. Cleaning was reported to be completed by staff during the day, this was not observed during the inspection. • There was a build-up of dirt and debris on the floors in the Toddler room, Sensory room and Hallways. A child who was unstable on their feet was observed to slip and fall within the Toddler room. • There was build-up of dust and debris in the radiators in the Preschool room. 12. Trailing flexes were noted within reach of children within the Preschool room and Wobbler Rooms, posing a potential strangulation risk. Safe Sleep: 13. There was no documentary evidence available to show that sleep checks were undertaken at 10 minutes intervals. This was not in line with the service policy on safe sleep or national guidance on safe sleep. 14. There was insufficient lighting in the cot room to adequately check the colour and breath pattern of sleeping children Fire Safety: 15. A gate in the outdoor area which formed part of the emergency evacuation route was found locked with a padlock, which could not be opened due to a broken key lodged inside. Staff provided inconsistent information regarding the escape route and the issue with the key. An Immediate Action Notice was issued, and a referral was made to the chief fire officer. 16. A review of records and conversation with staff showed that fire drills are not conducted on a monthly basis as required. The record showed that last fire drill was conducted in November 2024 and prior to that July 2024.This posed a potential risk to the safety of the children in the event of a fire emergency. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

- General Safety: 1. The registered provider reduced the temperature of the radiators. A sign was posted on the thermostat instructing staff not to change the temperature, with the registered provider monitoring this monthly. Monthly reminder has been set to check core temperatures in both taps and radiators using health and safety software. A monthly reminder has been put in place for the owner to continually check the temperature gauges have not been adjusted. 2. The registered provider stated that the cleaning schedule for the cot room is under review as are the responsibilities regarding checking that records are being checked for completion. Cots are clean in line with new cleaning routine. New outdoor risk assessment has been compiled with management responsible for daily completion. Checks identifying hazards will be completed weekly by the service manager and monthly by the owner. It was reiterated to staff during a staff meeting of the need to remove or report hazards to management. Daily visual checks are completed by management, weekly checks have been assigned to the manager and monthly checks by the owner. 3. The registered provider stated that the climbing wall has ridges and grips to pull and push themselves with ease. The daily risk assessment has now been implemented. 4. The registered provider stated that all toys and equipment are currently under review and small items such as crayons have been removed. The owner and manager are to check this on an ongoing basis. 5. Plastic bags are not to be present in the care rooms, with this highlighted at a staff meeting. Children’s clothes are to be kept on hooks outside the care rooms. General checks will be completed to ensure this does not happen. Infection Control: 6. New mattress and waterproof mattress protectors have been purchased. Monthly checks of all equipment within this room will be undertaken by the owner. 7. New mattress and waterproof mattress protectors have been purchased. Monthly checks of all equipment within this room will be undertaken by the owner. 8. Handwashing practices were raised at the staff meeting; observations are to be made by the manager and registered provider to ensure the practices are being followed. 9. Pedal bins have been purchased for all care rooms and sanitary areas within the service. 10. The registered provider stated that the tap gauges have been readjusted, and monthly readings and checks will be undertaken by the registered provider. 11. The registered provider has stated that cleaning procedures are currently under review, stating further that the supervisor is responsible for checking cleaning has been completed and updated, the room leader is responsible for this in each care room. Daily cleaning is assigned by the deputy manager via room allocation sheets. The deputy will make weekly checks, and the registered provider will review these checks monthly. 12. The flexes from phones and baby monitors have been tacked to a higher position on the wall, with weekly and monthly checks to be completed by the manager and registered provider. Safe Sleep: 13. The registered provider stated that the recording of sleep checks was highlighted to the staff team at a team meeting, a review of sleep checks has been delegated to the room leader on a daily basis. The manager and registered provider will undertake weekly checks. 14. The blind in the cot room has been lifted to allow for better lighting in the room. Fire Safety: 15. The registered provider stated that the code for the lock at the emergency exit is the same as the main entrance and that the code is printed and displayed at the emergency exit doors. A photo of the code has been shared with staff on the staff mobile. 16. The responsibility for monthly fire drills and the recording of same is assigned to the manager and registered provider, with monthly email reminders will be sent to both persons to ensure drills are conducted and recorded

##### Regulation 27 — Supervision

- The registered provider did not ensure that preschool children attending the service were supervised at all times. This was evidenced in the following ways: 1. In the Wobbler Room a child aged between 23-25 months old was observed to have placed a small crayon into their mouth, the staff member present was not aware that this had happened as they were busy cleaning. This was a potential choking risk. The inspector intervened and removed the item. 2. In the Toddler Room a child was observed to have placed a hair clip into their mouth, the staff member was not aware that this had happened. This was a potential choke risk. The inspector intervened and removed the item. 3. A child in the Outdoor area was observed to lick an item of rubbish that was found discarded in the outdoor area. Potentially exposing this child to hazard harmful bacteria. 4. The registered provider did not ensure that the children in the Wobbler and Toddler Rooms were adequately supervised. Children were observed to be playing on top of tables, jumping on and off high armchairs, and lie and stand on windowsills. This is a potential falls risk. This was also noted as a non- compliance on the previous inspection dated the 16 April 2024, actions put in place by the registered provider did not prevent a reoccurrence

- 1. The registered provider stated that the issue regarding small items needing to be removed from care rooms was raised at the staff meeting. Weekly and monthly checks will take place to review toys and equipment. Staff have been advised to remove anything unsuitable from the care room. It was reiterated to staff the need for supervision whilst completing their duties in the care room. 2. The registered provider stated that a review of toys and equipment has taken place. Loose or removed hair clips are put back in the hair or removed from reach of children. Staff were spoken too about supervising children at all times. 3. The registered provider stated that efforts are made to remove rubbish in the garden but due to the outdoor nature rubbish can present itself, staff were asked to ensure that they are aware of risks the whole time they are in the outdoor area. A daily risk assessment has been implemented with staff asked to tidy the garden after each session. Garden checks are to be completed daily by management. 4. The registered provider stated that the issue was highlighted during the staff meeting with specific importance made to the importance of supervision of the children, this is in line with the service supervision policy

##### Regulation 29 — Premises

- (d) 1. Paint was observed to be peeling off the wall in the Sensory Room. Potentially exposing children to toxins. 2. In the Toddler room the cabinet coverings under the sink were broken. Preventing effective cleaning. 3. Black residue was present on the walls in the Wobbler sanitary areas. Potentially harbouring harmful bacteria and spores

- 1. The registered provider has stated that the walls have been sanded with a touch up of paint needed. Monthly checks to be undertaken by the registered provider. 2. The registered provider stated that the cabinet door will be replaced by the end of April and added to a general maintenance list, with the owner undertaking monthly checks. 3. The registered provider stated that a leak behind the wall has been fixed, and the wall disinfected and cleaned. Monthly checks will be completed by the registered provider

Found compliant: Regulation 16.

### Earlier inspections

- 16 April 2024 — Inspection Report · PDF

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Página: https://creche-inspection-reports.pages.dev/creche/apple-of-my-eye-dublin-11/
Fonte: Tusla Early Years Inspectorate
Recolha: 2026-09-11