CHARLOTTE, N.C. — With heat index values making it feel like 107 degrees, daycare centers across the Carolinas are taking extraordinary precautions to protect children in their care as officials issue excessive heat warnings.

Local childcare providers are either limiting outside time or keeping children indoors altogether, finding creative ways to keep them active while staying cool.

"Keep them as cool as we can. If it's too hot in the morning, we will not go out," Connie St. Cyr, owner of Little Saints Academy in Rock Hill, said.

St. Cyr's facility, like many others in the region, is following expert recommendations by avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Instead, staff members are developing indoor alternatives to keep children engaged.

"We do indoor crafts, play kickb

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