Little Acorns ELC
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.5 / 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.5 / 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 5 out of 5 stars overall. Process quality reflects a Maryland EXCELS rating of Level 5 (out of 5) and NAEYC accreditation. 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 5 (Max 5) Learn more →
- Accreditations
- National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)Accredited
- National Accreditation Commission (NAC)Not Accredited
- National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA)Not Accredited
- National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC)Not Accredited
- Recognized by Asthma & Allergy Friendly, Health and Wellness.
Facility Info
- Facility type
- Child Care Center
- Age groups served
- Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, School-Age
- Licensed capacity
- 72
- Teacher-child ratios & group sizesState Minimum Displayed
Age Max ratio Max group Infants 1:3 6 Toddlers 1:3 9 Preschool 1:10 20
Teacher Credentials
- Lead teacher credentialState Minimum Displayed
- High School Diploma
Inspection History
Across 3 inspections since 2023, the issues cited most often were Staff-to-Child Ratios & Group Size (2), Staff Qualifications & Background Checks (2), and Discipline & Adult-Child Interaction (1). None of the 6 findings were critical.
See All 3 Inspection Visits
Sep 8, 20253 Findings3 Important
- Facility Informed the Licensing Specialist That the Child Involved Bit Another Child Which Is What Led to the Staff…13A.16.07.03B(4)
Facility informed the Licensing Specialist that the child involved bit another child which is what led to the staff member swatting the two year old's face. Facility terminated the staff member upon reviewing the video footage.
- Licensing Specialist Reviewed the Video Footage and Was Able to Confirm the Staff Member Striking a Two Year Old…13A.16.07.06A
Licensing Specialist reviewed the video footage and was able to confirm the staff member striking a two year old child's face, which is not ensuring the safety and security of the child. Facility terminated the staff member involved immediately upon reviewing the video footage themselves in order to
- Licensing Specialist Was Able to Confirm13A.16.08.01B(2)
Licensing Specialist was able to confirm, via facility video footage, that a staff member struck a two year old child in the face. Facility terminated the staff member immediately upon reviewing the video footage themselves in order to ensure providing appropriate individual care for all children in
Apr 30, 20242 Findings2 Important
- At the Time of the Inspection Licensing Specialist Observed Two Staff Members Who Started a Week Ago Who Had Not Been…13A.16.03.06A(1)
At the time of the inspection Licensing Specialist observed two staff members who started a week ago who had not been reported to the office. Facility is reminded that new hires must be reported within 5 days of starting employment.
- Licensing Specialist Observed a Power Strips on a Low Counter with Several Things Plugged Into It13A.16.10.04A
Licensing Specialist observed a power strips on a low counter with several things plugged into it. Facility is reminded that power strips and plugs should always be secured and out of reach of children. Facility removed the power strip at the time of the inspection.
Jul 14, 20231 Finding1 Important
- Licensing Specialist Did Not Observe Evidence of the Operator Providing Written Notification Within 5 Working Days…13A.16.03.06A(1)
Licensing Specialist did not observe evidence of the operator providing written notification within 5 working days about the addition of a new employee that includes a signed and notarized permission to examine records of abuse or neglect of children and adults. LS received the release of informatio