Md. Code Regs. 13A.17.09.01

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 22, November 1, 2024

Section 13A.17.09.01 - Materials and Equipment

A. An operator shall provide to each group of children in care a sufficient quantity and variety of materials and equipment for indoor and outdoor activities according to the number and ages of the children.

B. Activity materials and equipment provided to a child shall be:

(1) Appropriate to the child's age and developmental status;

(2) Safe;

(3) In good repair;

(4) Clean;

(5) Nontoxic; and

(6) Free from hazards, including lead paint.

C. Furnishings used by a child shall be scaled in proportion to the child's size.

D. The operator shall provide multipurpose tables and chairs.

E. Screen Time Activities.

(1) Definitions. In this section, the following terms have the meanings indicated:

(a) "Interactive technology" means educational and age-appropriate technology, including programs, applications (apps), noncommercial television programming, videos, streaming media, and ebooks, that is designed to:

(i) Facilitate active and creative use of technology; and

(ii) Encourage social engagement with other children and adults.

(b) "Passive technology" means noninteractive television, videos, and streaming media.

(2) Limited use of appropriate interactive technology may support, but may not replace, creative play, physical activity, hands-on exploration, outdoor experiences, social interactions, and other developmentally appropriate learning activities for children.

(3) Viewing Restrictions. Except as set forth in §E(4) of this Regulation, a child in attendance may not be permitted to view more than 30 minutes of age-appropriate, educational passive technology per week.

(4) Exceptions.

(a) An occasional exception to the weekly passive technology viewing limit set forth in §E(3) of this Regulation may be made for a special event or project, including a holiday or birthday celebration.

(b) If an exception to the weekly passive technology viewing limit is made, a written record of the exception shall be made and retained on file that documents the:

(i) Nature and duration of the programming viewed; and

(ii) Reason for the exception.

(5) No child may be permitted to view any:

(a) Passive or interactive technology during a meal or a snack; or

(b) Media with brand placement or advertising for unhealthy or sugary food or beverages.

(6) The operator shall give the parent of each enrolled child a written screen time policy that addresses the use of passive and interactive technology during child care hours.

Md. Code Regs. 13A.17.09.01

Regulation .01 amended effective 42:14 Md. R. 881, eff.7/20/2015