Fern Smith
Data last updated · May 2026
Quality Indicators
See Methodology →- Overall QualityCombines daily care quality (interactions, learning, environment) with structural features like staff-to-child ratios and teacher qualifications.3 / 5
- Process QualityThe quality of daily care — caregiver-child interactions, learning activities, and the emotional climate. Drawn from the state QRIS rating, accreditations, and Head Start CLASS observations.2 / 5
- Structural QualityMeasurable features like staff-to-child ratios, group sizes, license status, and teacher qualifications. Provider-level data when available; otherwise the state regulatory baseline.5 / 5
Why this rating
This daycare earned 3 out of 5 stars overall. Process quality reflects a Maryland EXCELS rating of Level 1 (out of 5). Structural quality reflects a license in good standing. The structural rating also includes Maryland's licensing baseline — what every licensed daycare in the state must meet. Maryland caps infant ratios at 1:3, toddler ratios at 1:3, and preschool ratios at 1:10. Lead teachers must hold a High School Diploma. Teachers must complete 12 hours of annual training.
Quality Recognitions & Accreditations
- State Quality Rating
- Maryland EXCELS Level 1 (Max 5) Learn more →
- Accreditations
- National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)Not Accredited
- National Accreditation Commission (NAC)Not Accredited
- National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA)Not Accredited
- National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC)Not Accredited
Facility Info
- Facility type
- Family Child Care Home
- Age groups served
- Toddlers, Preschool, School-Age
- Licensed capacity
- 7
- Teacher-child ratios & group sizesState Minimum Displayed
Age Max ratio Max group Toddlers 1:3 9 Preschool 1:10 20
Teacher Credentials
- Lead teacher credentialState Minimum Displayed
- High School Diploma
Inspection History
Across 4 inspections since 2023, the issues cited most often were Children's Records & Files (4), Infectious Disease Prevention & Control (2), and Building & Premises Safety (2). None of the 8 findings were critical.
See All 4 Inspection Visits
Oct 28, 20252 Findings2 Important
- LS Observed 5 Emergency Forms with Incomplete Information or Not Updated as Required13A.15.03.04A(3)
- LS Observed Uncovered French Fry and Dirt on the Elowest Shelf in the Freezer.13A.15.05.03A
Oct 24, 20242 Findings2 Important
- LS Observed a Trampoline in the Backyard Accessible to Children.13A.15.05.05A
- LS Observed a Trampoline in the Backyard Play Area Accessible to Children13A.15.10.03D(2)
LS observed a trampoline in the backyard play area accessible to children. LS advised that the trampline must be made inaccessible to the children enrolled in care.
Nov 14, 20233 Findings3 Important
- Two Emergency Cards Did Not Contain Emergency Contact Informration13A.15.03.04A(3)
- The Provider Transports One Child to School; There Was No Permission Slip.13A.15.03.04B(3)
- LS Observed Three Child Files with No Health Information-all Are Drop in Students13A.15.03.04C
LS observed three child files with no Health Information-all are drop in students. No written information regarding individua needs was in any child files.
Oct 27, 20231 Finding1 Important
- The Stove Top and Burners Had Grease Build Up.13A.15.05.03A