218 R.I. Code R. 218-RICR-70-00-2.3

Current through December 3, 2024

Section 218-RICR-70-00-2.3 - Licensing Standards

2.3.1Physical Facilities

A. Required Inspections and Certifications

1. Prior to receiving an initial license and to maintain this licensure status, the provider must show compliance with the following inspections or certifications:

a. Fire; to be completed annually;

b. Lead; to be completed every two (2) years unless lead-free certificate is obtained;

(1) Provider shall comply with Lead Poisoning Prevention, 216-RICR-50-15-3, promulgated by the Rhode Island Department of Health pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-24.6-14 (Lead Poisoning Prevention Act).

c. Radon; to be completed every three (3) years in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Radon Control, 216-RICR-50-15-2, issued by the Rhode Island Department of Health;

d. Water potability; tests to be completed in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Private Drinking Water Systems, 216-RICR-50-05-2 issued by the Rhode Island Department of Health.

B. Construction

1. Any construction or large-scale modifications to the home (inside or outside) that changes the measurements, or quality of the space used by children, requires approval by the Department's Licensing Administrator prior to the start of construction.

2. The provider is responsible to obtain any new inspections as necessitated by construction.

C. Structural Requirements and Mechanical Systems

1. Every room that is used by children must be ventilated via a ventilation system, opened door or window.

a. Doors and windows must not compromise the security of the program.

b. All exterior windows that can open are securely screened.

c. If windows above the first (1st) floor are used for ventilation, they must be opened from the top or secured with safety guards.

d. Windows used as an emergency egress as identified by the State Fire Marshal must be in accordance with the RI Life Safety Code, 450-RICR-00-00-8, issued by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal and Review.

2. There must be natural light within the area used for child care through a window, door, or skylight.

3. Clear glass doors must be clearly marked at children's eye level.

4. All spaces used for child care must have artificial lighting that is intact and in good working order.

5. All exits/egresses are:

a. Clearly identified; and

b. Free of clutter around the area of the door.

6. The residence must have an operational heating system capable of maintaining a minimum temperature of sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (65° F) in all areas accessible to the children.

7. All heating equipment must have:

a. Working mechanisms for controlling the temperature, ignition and safety;

b. An auxiliary switch wired to a position that is remote from the boiler/furnace area in order to shut off the boiler/furnace;

c. Insulation, protection, and/or a barricade around items including but not limited to hot water pipes, wood stoves, and radiators.

8. Asbestos insulation covering any pipes or heating elements must be intact and properly sealed.

9. Portable space heaters are prohibited while children are in care.

10. Fireplaces must be securely screened with protective guards.

11. The provider must ensure that the maximum temperature does not exceed seventy-four degrees Fahrenheit (74° F) in all areas used for child care.

12. All entrances to the FCCH are kept locked when the provider is unable to directly monitor its use. The FCCH must have a mechanism and/or procedure in place for monitoring entry throughout the day.

13. There must be hot and cold running water available for the care of the children.

14. The home's domestic hot water system and hand washing sinks must be set no higher than one hundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit (120° F).

15. If humidifiers, dehumidifiers and vaporizers are used providers must ensure:

a. They are kept out of reach of children;

b. They are used and maintained according to manufacturer's directions;

c. They are emptied and sanitized daily;

d. Parents/guardians are notified when such appliances are used in the FCCH.

16. Every electrical outlet within the child care area must be covered with a choke proof child resistant device while not in use.

17. Electrical cords must be:

a. Securely taped or fastened out of children's reach; and

b. In good condition, without any evidence of being frayed or damaged.

18. The use of electrical extension cords is prohibited.

19. Provider must have a flashlight, in working condition, readily available.

20. Candles, oil lamps, and other comparable material must never be lit in any space in the home during the times when child care is provided.

21. All window blind cords must be secured and out of the reach of children.

22. A telephone (landline or cellular) designated for program and business use must be located within the FCCH during business hours and readily available for use in case of an emergency.

23. In addition to meeting the requirements of the applicable Rhode Island Fire Safety Code, the residence must be equipped with a fire extinguisher located in the kitchen area.

D. Toileting and Diapering Facilities

1. The FCCH must have a minimum of one (1) flush toilet and hand washing sink located in a bathroom.

2. The bathroom must be in an area that is readily available to the children in care (children should be able to access the bathroom easily and independently without the help of an adult.)

a. Subsequent to the promulgation of these regulations, any bathroom used for child care must be located on the same floor as the space used for child care.

(1) Any FCCH licensed prior to these regulations that has a bathroom located on a floor separate from where child care is provided must implement a plan for ensuring sight and sound supervision when children are accessing the bathroom.

3. To prevent children from becoming locked inside the bathroom, the provider must ensure:

a. Any locks on bathroom doors should not be within the reach of children; or

b. A key is readily accessible outside of the bathroom.

4. Toilet training chairs must not be considered a substitute for the required toilet.

5. If a toilet training chair is used it must be:

a. Emptied into the flush toilet and sanitized after each use in a sink that is not used for food preparation;

b. Placed on a waterproof floor, without carpeting or rugs, and

c. Next to a bathroom sink and in a different room from any space used for cooking, preparing or eating food;

6. There must be a diaper changing area immediately near the bathroom sink and in a different room of the house from any space used for cooking, preparing, or eating food.

E. Food Preparation

1. Any area for food preparation must be sanitized prior to preparing food for children.

2. All food must be stored, covered, and/or refrigerated to safely preserve food, and ensure protection from insects and rodents.

3. Refrigeration used for children's food must be maintained at a temperature of forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41° F) or lower for refrigerator and zero degrees Fahrenheit (0° F) or lower for freezer.

F. Indoor Space Requirements

1. Subsequent to these regulations, there must be sufficient indoor floor space to allow for thirty-five (35) square feet of usable space per child in care determined by a measurement visit completed by the Department.

a. Any provider licensed prior to these regulations will be required to adhere to this regulation should they request an increase to their current licensed capacity.

2. Children may only be cared for in a basement if:

a. All areas are less than fifty percent (50%) below ground level per the building inspector;

b. There are two (2) exits from the area, one (1) of which must be a door leading directly to the outside;

(1) Bulkheads and overhead garage doors are not acceptable exits.

c. The basement is not used for sleeping unless the space is approved by the fire marshal for use as part of a life safety inspection.

3. If there are stairways within the area used for child care they must:

a. Have a handrail at children's height;

b. Be well lit;

c. Be kept clear of obstructions;

d. Have a gate, which is kept securely fastened at the entry to any stairway accessible to children under age three (3).

4. Providers are required to designate space in the home or residence for:

a. Administrative functions and paperwork;

b. Storage of equipment and materials; and

c. Storage of food.

G. Outdoor Requirements

1. Each program has an outdoor play area that is safe, protected and free from hazards that include, but are not limited to:

a. Access to the street;

b. Debris, trash, broken glass;

c. Animal waste;

d. Peeling paint;

e. Tools and construction materials;

f. Holes that present a tripping hazard or contain still water; and

g. Open drainage ditches, wells, or other bodies of water.

2. Outdoor activity space must:

a. Be surrounded by a fence or clear physical obstacle that prevents movement or access to another area.

b. Effective January 1, 2023, outdoor activity space must be surrounded by a permanent structure such as a fence, which is at least four feet (4') in height.

3. If a FCCH does not have access to an outdoor activity space onsite, they must submit a plan to the Department for approval that identifies a nearby park, schoolyard, or other alternative outdoor space.

a. The Department will consider the following criteria when reviewing the plan:

(1) Traffic patterns of vehicles and people in the area;

(2) Ages of children enrolled;

(3) Availability of age-appropriate equipment;

(4) Usage of the location by other groups when the children would be most likely to use it;

(5) Neighborhood circumstances, hazards, and risks, including the crime rate for the area;

(6) Accessibility to children and caregivers by foot or the availability of push carts or other means of transporting infants and toddlers;

(7) Reasonable accessibility of restroom facilities; and

(8) Ability to obtain assistance, if needed, when injury or illness occurs.

b. If approved, parents/guardians of children in care must be notified of the plan to use alternate outdoor space and have a way to contact the provider when the provider is off site.

4. Outdoor porches above the first (1st) floor cannot be used as play areas unless they are fully enclosed by a wooden framing covered with screen, glass or comparable material and structurally sound.

5. Outdoor porches and decks at the first (1st) floor level, used as play areas, must:

a. Be enclosed with a minimum of a four foot (4') railing;

b. Slats that are no more than three and one half inches (3 1/2") apart;

c. Have a gate that is kept securely fastened at the entry to any steps or stairways.

6. If there is any playground equipment that requires children's feet to leave the ground, it must:

a. Be anchored into the ground, in accordance with manufacturer's directions;

b. Be maintained and in good repair in accordance with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission Standards (incorporated at § 2.1.3(A) of this Part); and

c. Have safety surfacing that is maintained and in good repair, in accordance with United States Consumer Product Safety Commission Standards (incorporated at § 2.1.3(A) of this Part).

7. Outdoor trampolines are prohibited.

8. If sandboxes are used, they must be covered when not in use.

9. If the residence has an in-ground pool, the provider must prevent children's access:

a. The pool must be separated by a fence that is at least six feet (6')in height, with no openings or protrusions that a child could use to get over, under or through, and

b. It must be equipped with a gate that opens out from the pool, and self-close and self-latch at a height where a child can't reach.

10. If the residence has an above ground pool, it must have a four foot (4') fence extension along the outer rim of the pool, provided that the ladder leading to the pool folds up and locks into place and the height from the ground is at least six feet (6').

11. Each swimming pool more than six feet (6') in width, length, or diameter must be equipped with at least two (2) life saving devices such as a ring buoy and rope, a rescue tube, or a throwing line and a shepherd's hook that will not conduct electricity. This equipment must be long enough to reach the center of the pool from the edge of the pool, kept in good repair, and stored safely and conveniently for immediate access.

12. Pools without a filtration system must be:

a. Emptied and disinfected after each use; and

b. Stored upside down or indoors when not in use.

13. Pools equipped with a filtration system must:

a. Be maintained in accordance with any applicable city/town and State Rules regarding residential swimming pools, and

b. Shall be cleaned and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's or installer's printed instructions regarding cleaning, filtration, and chemical treatment.

c. Has drain covers that are used in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, 15 U.S.C. §§ 8001 through 8008.

14. All pool chemicals must be stored out of the reach of children.

15. Provider must obtain written permission from the parent/guardian prior to taking a child into a pool.

16. The use of diving boards is not permitted.

H. Overall Safety of Residence

1. Providers are wholly responsible for ensuring that all parts of the residence and grounds are maintained in a way that ensures health and safety at all times. Areas accessed by children during operating hours should be free of the following safety hazards:

a. Openings that could entrap a child's head or limbs;

b. Elevated surfaces that are inadequately guarded;

c. Lack of specified surfacing and fall zones under and around climbable equipment;

d. Insufficient spacing between equipment;

e. Tripping hazards;

f. Equipment that is known to be of a hazardous type;

g. Sharp points or corners;

h. Splinters;

i. Loose, rusty parts;

j. Strangulation hazards (e.g., straps, strings, etc.);

k. Flaking paint; and

l. Tip-over hazards, such as chests, bookshelves, and televisions.

2. In any event where weather or disaster compromises safety of the residence, the provider ensures:

a. Safe passage in and out of the residence; and

b. That all structural and mechanical systems are fully functional.

3. A monthly outdoor inspection report must be completed by provider and kept available for review by the department.

2.3.2Health, Safety and Nutrition

A. Medical Requirements

1. FCCH providers must adopt policies and procedures consistent with the Rhode Island Department of Health's Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Immunization and Communicable Disease Testing in Preschool, School, Colleges or Universities, 216-RICR-30-05-3;

a. Providers are required to maintain documentation of current immunizations for children in their care unless these children attend public, private, or parochial schools approved by the Rhode Island Department of Education.

b. If a child is a foster child or is experiencing homelessness, a grace period of ninety (90) days can be granted to obtain the immunization documentation, provided there is a plan upon enrollment to get immunizations documented and up to date as soon as possible.

2. The parent/guardian submits evidence of an annual health examination, signed by the child's primary care provider, which includes information regarding any condition or limitation that may affect the child's general health or participation in the program.

a. Providers are required to maintain documentation of an annual health examination for children in their care unless these children attend public, private, or parochial schools approved by the Rhode Island Department of Education.

b. If a child is a foster child or is experiencing homelessness, a grace period of ninety (90) days can be granted to obtain the annual health examination documentation.

B. Communicable Disease

1. In the event a child, provider, or assistant suffers from a communicable disease of public health significance, or in the event of an outbreak of any type, the provider must:

a. Report the disease to Rhode Island Department of Health, Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology; as well as the Department of Human Services Licensing Unit.

b. Provide written notice to inform all parents/guardians to which communicable disease the child(ren) may have been exposed, without providing any identifying information regarding the source of the communicable disease.

2. The provider decides on all matters of exclusion and readmission of children for reasons of illness; however, if the child absence is due to communicable disease, this decision must be made in consultation with a licensed physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner, and Rhode Island Department of Health, Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology.

a. Any child who has been placed on an antibiotic medication may not be admitted to the program for a period of at least twenty-four (24) hours.

b. Any child exhibiting signs of a parasite infection, such as scabies or head lice, may not be admitted to the program until the child has been successfully treated.

3. If a parasite infection, such as scabies or head lice, is found within the residence, the provider must:

a. Wash all linens, clothes, and other cloth materials with hot water and detergent, or dry clean; and

b. Vacuum all rugs/carpeting and upholstery.

C. Emergency Treatment Form

1. Provider shall have an Emergency Treatment Form for each child in care that is signed by the parent/guardian. This form shall be kept on file for use in the event of an emergency. It shall be taken on field trips and outings away from the home.

2. Parents/guardians must identify two (2) adults who can be contacted in the event of an emergency if they are unreachable. This information shall be reviewed annually in order to update any changes.

D. Administration of Medication

1. Prescribed and non-prescribed (over the counter) medication must not be administered to a child without:

a. Written permission from the parent/guardian; and

b. A written order from a licensed physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner (which may include the label on the medication) indicating that the medicine is for a specified child. The medication must be in the original container.

(1) The written order includes the name of the child, the name of the medication, circumstances under which it may be administered, route, dosage, and frequency of administration.

(2) For rescue medication (such as albuterol or epinephrin) the written order must include a care plan that outlines the protocol for administering the medication.

2. The provider, assistant or substitute must dispense all medications.

3. A daily log must be maintained of every medication administered. This record must include the following:

a. Child's name;

b. Name and dosage of medication administered;

c. Date and time administered;

d. Name and signature of the person who administered the medication; and

e. Name of the licensed physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner prescribing the medication.

4. The medication log is transported with the child to the emergency treatment facility in the event of an emergency.

5. The first (1st) dose of a medication must be administered by the parent/guardian.

6. Medications must be stored:

a. In clearly labeled original containers;

b. In spaces secured with child safety locks that are separate from any items that attract children (such as with food, candy, or toys); and

c. In a way that does not contaminate play surfaces or food preparation areas.

7. Refrigerated medications must be stores separate from food in a container or compartment in the refrigerator.

E. Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs

1. When a provider enrolls a child with a disability or special health care needs, such as a condition that impacts mobility, the provider must obtain from the parent/guardian written recommendations (such as an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Educational Plan (IEP)) for any specialized care the child may require.

a. These recommendations must come from or be endorsed by the child's physician or other authorized professional who has evaluated or treated the child.

2. Care provided to children with a disability or special health care needs must be in accordance with the child's IFSP or IEP, as applicable.

3. Providers must ensure the safe participation of all children with disabilities or special health care needs, who are enrolled, in all experiences, activities, and opportunities, including active play.

F. Child Abuse and Neglect

1. Any suspected case of child abuse and/or neglect is reported to the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families' Child Protective Services (CPS) hotline (1-800-RI-CHILD/1-800-742-4453) within twenty-four (24) hours in accordance with State law and Department policy.

2. If the suspected case occurred at the program, the program must report to the Department's licensing unit after reporting to the CPS hotline.

3. The provider is responsible for alerting the Department immediately of any DCYF investigation associated with themselves, a household member, assistant or substitute.

G. Prohibited Practices

1. Physical restraint of children is prohibited.

2. Corporal punishment is strictly prohibited. Corporal punishment includes, but is not limited to:

a. Hitting, spanking, shaking, slapping, twisting, pulling, squeezing, or biting a child;

b. Demanding excessive physical exercise, excessive rest, or strenuous or bizarre postures of a child;

c. Compelling a child to eat or have in his/her mouth soap, food, spices, or foreign substances;

d. Exposing a child to extremes of temperature;

e. Isolating a child in an adjacent room, hallway, closet, darkened area, play area, or any other area where a child cannot be seen or supervised; and

f. Binding, tying, or taping to restrict movement.

3. Other practices that are strictly prohibited include, but may not be limited to:

a. Using or withholding food as a punishment or reward;

b. Toilet training methods that punish, demean, or humiliate a child;

c. Rejecting, terrorizing, ignoring, isolating, or corrupting a child;

d. Using abusive, profane, sarcastic language, verbal abuse, threats, or derogatory remarks about the child or child's family;

e. Engaging in any form of public or private humiliation, including threats of physical punishment;

f. Withholding physical activity/outdoor time as punishment;

g. Smoking and the use of tobacco products in the residence or on grounds during child care operating hours;

h. Smoking in any vehicle used by the program for transporting children.

4. If smoking, of any kind, occurs in the home when children are not in care, the provider must notify the parents/guardians of all children enrolled.

5. Alcohol kept in the residence must be secured and stored away from children's access.

H. Firearms and Weapons

1. Firearms and weapons, as defined in § 2.1.4 of this Part, shall not be accessible to children.

2. Using firearms and/or weapons of any kind in the program or on program grounds is strictly prohibited.

3. Providers and household members who have possession of one (1) or more firearms and/or weapons, of any kind, must:

a. Obtain the proper licenses or permits to the extent required by law;

b. Store firearms and/or weapons, unloaded, separate from ammunition, equipped with child protective devices, in a place which is inaccessible to children during the hours of operation;

c. Store ammunition, separate from firearms and/or weapons, under lock, during the hours that child care is provided in the home;

d. Make both locking mechanisms, all materials, and appropriate licenses available for inspection by the Department or designee; and

e. Notify the parents/guardians of all children enrolled that firearms and/or weapons are in the residence (including the number of firearms and/or weapons).

I. Environmental Health

1. The residence, equipment, and materials are clean, free of hazards, and kept in good repair.

2. Any product used for cleaning, sanitizing and/or disinfecting is approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as indicated on the product label and is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Toxic substances and any other items of potential danger to children are clearly labeled and are in an area that is secured by a child safety lock or safely out of the reach of any child.

4. All preventive maintenance within the residence must occur at times when children are not in the area of the equipment or systems being serviced.

a. Tools, supplies, materials, parts, or debris must not be left at the job site, unless they are secured and stored away from children.

5. Garbage receptacles are covered in all areas that are accessible to children, lined, and garbage is removed from the program daily. See § 2.3.3 (B) of this Part for information regarding diaper storage and hygiene.

6. Any rodent and insect infestation is promptly treated. Insecticides and rodenticides must be approved by the Rhode Island Department of Health and used in accordance with manufacturer' s instructions. Guidelines and requirements are found in R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-25-38 and must be adhered to.

7. The provider posts (in a conspicuous place where all parents and visitors can see) and follows a regular written cleaning and sanitation schedule, including provisions for deep cleaning.

8. Tables, feeding seats, and high chair trays, used for eating are sanitized before and after meals and snacks.

9. Sensory water tables or other receptacles used for water play are emptied and sanitized daily.

10. Reusable sponges and dish clothes are not used for cleaning and/or sanitizing.

11. The use of any public water fountain is prohibited.

J. Hygiene

1. The provider stocks, and makes accessible, a supply of items required to maintain personal hygiene for children, provider, and assistant(s), which should be stocked with appropriate items at all times. A sufficient supply of items should include:

a. Liquid soap;

b. Hand sanitizer;

c. Paper towels within arm's reach of the user of each sink; and

d. Toilet paper within arm's reach of the user of each toilet.

2. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) wash their hands with liquid soap and warm running water as needed and:

a. After each diaper change;

b. After personal toileting;

c. After assisting a child with toileting;

d. After wiping a runny nose;

e. After touching any bodily fluid;

f. Before and after using water, sand, or other sensory tables;

g. After messy play;

h. After handling and/or feeding animals or pets; and

i. Before any food preparation or service.

3. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) ensure that children wash their hands with liquid soap and warm running water as needed and:

a. After each toileting;

b. Before each meal or snack;

c. After wiping or blowing their nose;

d. After touching any bodily fluid;

e. Before and after using water, sand, or other sensory tables;

f. After messy play;

g. After handling and/or feeding pets; and

h. Upon entry from the outdoors.

4. Hand sanitizer and/or hand wipes are not permitted as substitutes for washing hands with liquid soap and warm running water.

5. Drinking water is never obtained from any bathroom.

6. Provider ensures arrangements for children to engage in personal hygiene including brushing teeth and changing clothes.

K. Food Allergies

1. For each child with food allergies or special nutritional needs, the provider requests that the parent/guardian obtains a care plan from the child's health care professional.

2. The provider must make provisions for protecting children with food allergies from contact with the allergen(s).

3. The provider must have the consent from the parent/guardian of a child with food allergies before posting information in the program about that child's food allergy.

a. If consent for posting is provided, that information is posted in all areas of the program the child uses, including but not limited to the food preparation area.

b. If consent for posting is not provided, then this information is shared verbally with all relevant staff, including substitutes and assistants, and is documented in the child's file.

L. Nutrition

1. All meals and snacks provided by the provider must meet current USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program nutritional standards (incorporated at § 2.1.3(B) of this Part).

2. The provider must not serve drinks containing caffeine, sugar and/or artificial sweetener, including soda and flavored milk.

3. If the provider chooses to serve juice, it must:

a. Be one hundred percent (100%) fruit juice with no added sweeteners;

b. Be in accordance with the US Department of Agriculture Child and Adult Care Food Program (incorporated at § 2.1.3(B) of this Part);

c. Be served once a day and only at meal or snack time; and

d. Never be served to infants under twelve (12) months old.

4. Children must be provided the opportunity to eat at least once every three (3) hours.

a. Exceptions may be made when child care is provided during evening hours.

5. Providers must maintain a supply of food that meets the US Department of Agriculture Child and Adult Care Food Program nutritional guidelines (incorporated at § 2.1.3(B) of this Part) for:

a. Meals (if applicable) and snacks; and

b. When a child is still hungry after a meal or snack.

6. Menus for meals and snacks must be planned and posted weekly.

7. The program must provide parents/guardians written Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) nutrition guidelines at the time of enrollment.

8. On special occasions (not to exceed two (2) per month) food and beverages (not to include soda or other caffeinated drinks) that do not meet nutritional requirements may be served in addition to required meals and snacks.

9. Drinking water is readily available and offered throughout the day, especially before, during and after outdoor play.

M. Emergency/Disaster Plans and Procedures

1. The provider is required to have an emergency preparedness and response plan approved by the Department that addresses all of the required components found at 45 C.F.R. § 98.41(a)(1)(vii), incorporated above at § 2.1.3 (E) of this Part.

2. In all situations where an emergency or suspected emergency occurs the provider/assistant(s) follows the Department approved Emergency Preparedness and Response plan..

3. An individualized graphic evacuation plan identifying all escape routes is posted within the child care area.

4. All required emergency phone numbers are posted in a conspicuous place adjacent to the telephone or phone base.

5. The names and phone numbers of parents/guardians and emergency contact persons for each child in care must be readily available for all caregivers.

6. The provider must conduct regular safety drills.

a. One (1) fire drill must be conducted every month the program is in operation, with no more than three (3) drills delayed for weather.

b. Every fourth (4th) drill must be obstructed, by means of not using one (1) of the typical exits/egresses. The other drills may be unobstructed.

c. Two (2) shelter-in-place drills must be conducted every twelve (12) months.

d. A record of all safety drills must be maintained.

e. Safety drills must be conducted with assistants, as applicable.

f. Safety drills must be conducted during all different times that child care is provided.

N. Illness and Injury

1. If a child presents with symptoms of concern, the provider/substitutes/assistant(s) must:

a. Document the findings;

b. Determine the needs of the child and make accommodations as necessary; and

c. Notify the parent/guardian, as necessary.

2. If a child becomes ill or is injured while at the program, the provider/substitutes/assistant(s) must:

a. Contact the child's parent/guardian;

b. Contact emergency personnel, as needed;

c. Provide relevant first aid support, as needed;

d. Ensure special care for the child, including a comfortable resting space in a quiet area away from other children, within sight and sound of the provider/substitute/assistant(s); and

e. Disinfect furniture and materials touched by the ill child.

3. A first aid kit is readily accessible, but out of children's reach, in each Family Child Care Home and taken outside during outdoor play and on field trips.

a. The following first aid supplies should be in all first aid kits:

(1) Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes);

(2) Cold pack;

(3) Disposable powder-free, latex-free gloves;

(4) Plastic bags (for disposing of blood and other bodily fluids); and

(5) Thermometer - digital or ear - should not contain glass/mercury

b. The first aid kit must be restocked after each use;

c. The first aid kit should be reviewed once a month to ensure the replacement of any used or expired materials.

(1) The program must maintain a written log that documents the date of the review and the staff member that completed the review.

4. A choke-saving poster, that outlines the Heimlich Maneuver, must be prominently displayed in any area where children eat.

5. Injuries must be documented on an injury report.

a. Parents/guardians are notified of injuries on the same day of the injury.

(1) Any injury that is head related or an injury that may require medical attention must be an immediate phone call to the parent/guardian.

b. A parent/guardian must sign the written injury report on the same day the injury occurred.

c. A copy of the report must be placed in the child's file.

d. The injury, first aid and parent/guardian communication must be recorded.

O. Animals

1. Parents/Guardians are notified in advance of any animals maintained as pets in the residence.

2. All animals maintained as pets in the residence are cared for in a clean, safe and sanitary manner.

3. All animals maintained as pets in the residence are kept in accordance with State and local requirements, including all applicable vaccinations.

a. All vaccination records are available for review by the Department.

4. Children are protected from animals that are potentially dangerous to their health or safety.

P. Equipment and Furniture

1. Furniture, within the area used for child care, must be clean, durable, maintained in good repair and free of hazards.

2. The provider ensures that parents/guardians provide an adequate supply of clean diapers, bed linens and clothing changes.

a. The program maintains an additional supply of clean diapers, bed linens, and clothing changes.

3. Programs serving Infants and/or Toddlers have a choke prevention gauge readily available.

a. Infants and toddlers must be protected from objects that could be swallowed.

4. Bucket seats and highchairs are used according to manufacturer's recommendations for feeding and are never used for activities or as a form of restraint.

5. Use of infant equipment such as swings, stationary activity centers, infant seats, etc. should never be used for longer than fifteen (15) minutes at a time.

6. If the manufacturer requires safety straps on a chair, swing, stroller, infant carrier, bouncer seat, or similar type of equipment, then the safety straps must be fastened whenever a child is using the equipment.

7. A crib, portable crib, cot, or mat must be available for each resting child, depending on the child's age and size.

a. Couches and beds used for household members are not permitted for a sleeping surface for children in care.

b. Children cannot rest or sleep directly on the floor, bean bag, sheepskins, waterbeds, or comparable surface/material that poses similar risks.

8. All bedding used for children's sleeping surfaces must be laundered weekly.

9. There must be at least two feet (2') of space between each cot, mat, crib, and/or portable crib with a resting child during nap/rest time.

10. The program maintains documentation on-site that every crib or portable crib meets the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission Standards (incorporated at § 2.1.3(C) of this Part).

11. The use of mobile walkers and baby corrals is prohibited.

12. All storage chests, boxes, trunks, or comparable items with hinged lids must be equipped with a lid support designed to hold the lid open in any position, be equipped with ventilation holes, and must not have a latch that might close and trap a child inside.

Q. Family Child Care Home Regulations During a Declared Pandemic

1. In the event a national state of emergency is declared in relation to a pandemic, the DHS may require Family Child Care Homes to follow certain health and safety protocols based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and/or the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) including, but not limited to:

a. Provider may be required to immediately contact DHS Child Care Licensing and RIDOH if the provider, the assistant, or any member of the household has been instructed to isolate or quarantine due to having contracted or been exposed to the virus that caused the declared pandemic, in order to assess the need for creating an alternate care plan. DHS may revoke a child care license for failure to report a known instruction to isolate or quarantine due to contracted illness or exposure to the virus that caused the declared pandemic.

b. Cloth face coverings may be required to be worn in accordance with CDC recommendations, RIDOH recommendations, and/or Rhode Island Executive Orders.

c. Providers may be required to have an isolation room or area that can be used to isolate a sick child, in accordance with their child illness policy.

d. Providers may be required to self-attest for common symptoms of the virus that caused the declared pandemic and ensure that prior to entering the home, all individuals attest to common symptoms of the virus that caused the declared pandemic. Individuals with symptoms may not be allowed to enter the home.

e. If more than one (1) child care shift is provided during the day, each shift may be required to adhere to the definition of "stable group."

2. In the event that a national state of emergency is declared in relation to a pandemic, communication will be given to providers via email or alternative means, to ensure they understand that at that time, the Regulations as set forth in § 2.3.2(Q) of this Part are effective and will be monitored.

a. Providers shall communicate changes in licensing standards that are made in response to the declared pandemic to the families they serve.

2.3.3Routine Care of Children

A. Feeding and Eating

1. Eating and feeding routines must meet the individual needs of children in the program.

2. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) do not force or bribe children to eat.

3. A feeding plan is established and followed for each Infant and Toddler prior to enrollment. The feeding plan must include:

a. A plan for introducing age-appropriate solid foods in consultation with child's parent/guardian and primary health care provider

b. A requirement that infants are not fed beyond satiety; allow infants to stop the feeding.

c. A requirement that infants are not fed formula mixed with cereal, fruit juice or other foods without primary health care provider's written instruction.

4. Providers shall encourage and support breastfeeding and feeding of breast milk by making arrangements for parents to feed their children on-site.

5. Infants who are not ready for self-feeding are held and fed by provider/assistant(s) on a one-to-one basis.

6. Infants must be held while bottle feeding.

a. Infants must be positioned for bottle feeding in the caregiver's arm or sitting up on lap.

b. Bottles must never be propped up at any time or placed in a crib with a child.

7. A heating unit for warming bottles and food is readily accessible to provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s). Microwaves are not used for heating bottles.

8. Only BPA free plastic or glass bottles are used.

9. Bottles provided by parents/guardians must be labeled with the child's name.

10. If the program provides bottles and reusable nipples for community use, they are washed and sanitized in the dishwasher or boiled for at least five (5) minutes prior to use.

11. All breast milk or formula must be clearly labeled with the child's name.

12. The provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) prepares formula that is mixed and served according to manufacturer's instructions.

13. Prepared breast milk or formula is used immediately or stored in the refrigerator.

14. Un-served prepared breast milk or formula is returned to the parent/guardian at the end of each day.

15. Food is not used as an incentive unless specifically stated in the child's IEP/IFSP.

B. Diapering and Toileting

1. Diapering and Toileting routines must meet the individual needs of children in the program.

2. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) cannot force children to use the bathroom.

3. Toilet training conforms to an individual plan based on each child's readiness and is carried out in conjunction with the parent/guardian.

4. Routine attempts to toilet train are made only when a child demonstrates readiness.

5. Children are changed and diapered regularly and are washed and dried with single use baby wipes.

6. No child is left unattended during diapering.

7. The diaper-changing surface is cleaned and disinfected after each use with a disposable towel, United States Environmental Protection Agency registered disinfectant, or disinfectant solution that is prepared daily.

8. Provider/assistant(s) must wash their hands thoroughly with liquid soap and warm running water after each diaper change, even if disposable gloves are used.

9. All soiled diapers are removed from the residence daily.

10. If disposable diapers are used, they are placed in a covered receptacle that is:

a. Lined with a plastic bag;

b. Kept away from the children's activity and food preparation and service areas;

c. Emptied as necessary to eliminate odors; and

d. Clean and disinfected daily.

11. If cloth diapers are used, they are:

a. Not rinsed or emptied at the child care program;

b. Completely wrapped in a non-permeable material;

c. Kept away from the children's activity and food preparation and service areas; and

d. Given directly to the parent/guardian at pickup at the end of the day.

C. Sleeping

1. Sleeping routines meet the individual needs of children in the program interior or exterior.

2. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) may encourage children to rest, but children cannot be forced to sleep or stay awake.

3. Infants sleep in a safe sleep environment consistent with the American Academy of Pediatrics Safe Sleep Guidelines (incorporated at § 2.1.3(D) of this Part).

a. An Infant must be placed on his/her back while sleeping.

b. Monitors or positioning devices cannot be used.

c. There are no restraining devices of any type, including swaddles.

d. Modifications to an Infant's safe sleep environment regarding positioning, are not permitted unless the Infant's physician, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner has completed a signed waiver indicating that the child requires an alternate sleeping arrangement.

e. Infants must sleep in a crib or portable crib approved by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission Standards (incorporated at § 2.1.3(C) of this Part), equipped with a firm crib mattress and a tight-fitting sheet.

(1) The mattress must not be supplemented with additional foam materials or pads.

f. Lighting must allow for provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) to view the color of the child's skin and to check for breathing.

g. Children cannot sleep in a car safety seat, bean bag chair, bouncy seat, infant seat, swing, jumping chair, highchair, infant inclined sleepers or in comparable equipment/furniture.

h. If an Infant arrives at the home or residence asleep in a car safety seat, or falls asleep in comparable equipment, the Infant is immediately removed from the car seat or comparable equipment and placed in a safe sleep environment.

i. Clothing designed for safe sleep, including sleep sacks, are permitted.

j. No items can be placed in the crib/portable crib with an Infant except for a pacifier.

k. A pacifier clip is not permitted for use in a crib/portable crib.

l. No additional items are placed on or above the crib/portable crib.

m. Cribs/portable cribs are only used for rest or sleep.

n. Children must rest/sleep in a location in the residence where they can be in both sight and sound supervision by the provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) at all times.

(1) During hours of operation, no child may rest/sleep behind a closed door.

4. Baby monitors, of any kind, are not permitted as a substitute for supervision.

2.3.4Enrollment and Staffing

A. Required Staff for Initial and Renewal of Licensure

1. Each Family Child Care Home must have one (1) provider, who lives in the residence, and is responsible for the overall program.

2. Each Family Child Care Home must have at least one (1) assistant/substitute, who are readily available to be called upon to provide immediate care to children, in the event of an emergency. For programs serving six or more children, an approved second assistant/substitute is required.

a. Subsequent to the date of these Regulations, no new license or license renewal will be approved with a Family Child Care Home provider or Group Family Child Care Home provider listed as an assistant.

(1) The Department will consider an exception if it can be proved that the individual can be available in both situations, while maintaining compliance with these Regulations.

3. A Family Child Care Home may have or use an Assistant, to support required staffing patterns, or support other activities within the program.

4. A Family Child Care Home may have or use a substitute, to support required staffing patterns, or provide coverage of activities within the program.

B. Number of Children in Care

1. A Family Child Care Home provider, who is caring for children without an Assistant, must care for no more than six (6) children at any time, in accordance with the provider's licensed capacity.

a. Of these six (6) children, there must be no more than two (2) children under the age of eighteen (18) months, in care, at any time.

b. If all children in care are under three (3) years old, a maximum ratio of four to one (4:1) should be maintained unless an approved assistant is employed and on site.

(1) In this situation, an additional assistant/substitute must also be approved.

2. A Family Child Care Home provider, who is caring for children with an Assistant, must care for no more than eight (8) children at any time, in accordance with the provider's licensed capacity.

a. Of these eight (8) children, there must be no more than four (4) children under the age of eighteen (18) months, in care, at any time.

b. An Assistant must be present to provide care in any time where the number of children exceeds six (6) and/or the number of children under the age of eighteen (18) months exceeds two (2).

c. If all children in care are under three (3) years old, a maximum ratio of four to one (4:1) should be maintained.

d. Maximum capacity of children in care for Family Child Care Home

Maximum Capacity of Children in Care
Family Child Care Home licensed for six (6) children
Staffing	Total number of children allowed by age
Provider with no assistant on site	Maximum capacity of six (6) children and No more than two (2) children in care may be under eighteen (18) months. or If all children in care are under three (3) years of age, no more than four (4) children may be in care.
Provider with one (1) approved assistant on site	Max capacity of six (6) children and No more than four (4) children in care may be under eighteen (18) months
Family Child Care Home provider licensed for eight (8) children
Staffing	Total number of children allowed by age
Provider with no assistant on site	Maximum capacity of six (6) children and No more than two (2) children in care may be under eighteen (18) months or If all children in care are under three (3) years of age, no more than four (4) children may be in care
Provider with one approved assistant on site	Maximum capacity of eight (8) children and No more than four (4) children in care may be under the age of eighteen (18) months

3. Children who live in the residence must be counted in determining the maximum capacity for licensure in accordance with the following:

a. Children, including foster children, that live in the residence who are not yet attending kindergarten (not school age), must be counted in determining the maximum capacity for licensure.

(1) The Department will consider an exception, if the provider can prove that the child attends a full day preschool program.

b. If a related child is aged five to twelve (5-12) years and at home less than three (3) consecutive hours while the FCCH is operating, they do not count as part of ratio.

c. During the summer months/school vacation weeks, school age children, under the age of twelve (12), who are residents of the home may be added to the program without impacting the allowable maximum capacity as long as an additional approved assistant/substitute is also present.

d. Exceptions for school age children may be made to the licensed capacity for weather or emergency-based school-closures, sick days, or holidays.

4. Provider must not work more than fifteen (15) hours in a twenty-four (24) hour period, including child care and any other employment.

5. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) are required to be awake at all times while children are in care.

6. Household members, or household visitors do not count in the staff/child ratios unless specifically authorized as an approved assistant or substitute.

7. Programs must adhere to a more stringent staffing pattern of one (1) provider/substitute/assistant for every two (2) children for events such as field trips, (other activities that may impose additional safety considerations), and swimming activities.

a. All provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) supervising swim activities must be in or directly adjacent to the water.

C. Provider Time Out of the Home

1. Without the use of an approved assistant and/or substitute when applicable, the provider must be on the premises, directly supervising the children, at all times when children are in care.

2. With the use of an approved assistant and/or substitute, the provider may be out of the home twenty percent (20%) of the total work week, not to exceed fifteen (15) hours.

3. If the provider intends to be out of the home for three (3) or more consecutive days, use of an approved assistant or substitute must be approved by the Department.

a. For approval the provider must submit a written plan that clearly outlines:

(1) The date the provider will be out of the home;

(2) The reason for the absence; and

(3) The process by which families will be notified of the absence.

b. Extended absences will not be approved beyond fourteen (14) days per calendar year.

4. Regardless of the use of any assistant or substitute, the child staff ratio shall remain in effect.

5. When a provider will be out of the home, the parents/guardians of the children in care must be notified of the names of the approved assistant(s) or substitute(s) who will be caring for the children.

D. Supervision

1. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) must provide sight and sound supervision all times, including but not limited to:

a. Indoor play;

b. Outdoor play;

c. Bathroom use;

d. Rest or sleep;

e. Meals and snacks; and

f. Transitions.

2. Children may not be split between outdoor and indoor activities (including resting/sleeping) if there is not a provider and/or assistant(s) in each location.

3. Furniture must not obstruct program provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) from visual supervision.

4. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) cannot be distracted while providing care to children. The use of cell phones, personal electronic devices, and personal reading materials, outside of business purposes, is forbidden while the program is operating.

E. Attendance

1. The provider must have an individual attendance sheet that lists the first and last names of all children enrolled. This list must:

a. Be updated every time that there is a change in enrollment;

b. Reflect which children are present at any given time.

2. Attendance records must be kept for all children for a period of no less than three (3) years.

F. Field Trips

1. For all field trips, programs must:

a. Provide written notice to parents/guardians of any field trip at least three (3) days in advance;

b. Have a signed permission slip, prior to departing, for each child that states the date, time, location, means of transportation, and potential risks, specific to each individual trip;

c. Bring emergency information for each child on each individual trip; and

d. Adhere to the more stringent staffing pattern as stated in § 2.3.4 (B) of this Part.

2. Outdoor walks around the area of the residence are not considered a field trip.

3. Staff must have means to contact the parents/guardians if leaving the residence and grounds.

G. Volunteers and Visitors

1. Family Child Care Homes may utilize volunteers that:

a. Are eighteen (18) years of age or older;

b. Must be cleared and approved in accordance with the Department's policies on Comprehensive Background Checks.

c. Undergo orientation to program policies and procedures and the volunteer assignment; and

d. Are never left alone with or responsible for the supervision of children.

2. Family Child Care Homes may have visitors in accordance with the following:

a. Enrichment visitors (such as a firefighter, or a parent who reads to children) may visit the program at the discretion of the provider.

b. Social visitors or those who do not meet the definition of household members are not permitted for more than a ten (10) minute increment.

c. Visitors are not considered volunteers and are not required to be cleared and approved in accordance with the Department's policies on Comprehensive Background Checks unless they meet the definition of household members as stated in § 2.1.4 (A)(8).

d. Visitors of all types must never be left alone with children and are never responsible for the supervision of children.

3. All volunteers and visitors must sign in and out of the program on a sign out sheet available at the entrance of the program.

a. The sign in and out sheet must include the:

(1) Date of visit;

(2) Full name of volunteer or visitor/guest;

(3) Reason for visit; and

(4) Time in and out for the visit.

4. There must be no volunteers or visitors when the provider is not present in the program.

2.3.5Staff Qualifications and Ongoing Professional Development

A. Requirements for Family Child Care Home providers

1. FCCH providers must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.

2. Prior to initial licensure, FCCH provider must show evidence of having successfully completed the following:

a. High school or GED (applicable for all providers initially licensed after the issuance of the 2007 Regulations);

b. The Department's Orientation to Family Child Care;

c. The Department's approved Pre-Service Training;

d. Current certification under the most recent guidelines of the American Heart Association in:

(1) Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

(AA) Initial CPR certification must be done in person.

(BB) CPR recertification may be done either in person or online.

(2) Pediatric First Aid

(AA) Pediatric first aid training may be done in person or online.

e. A Comprehensive Background Check; and

f. Completion of Department approved orientation and pre-licensure training; and,

g. Evidence of an annual physical and immunization information.

B. Requirements for Family Child Care Home assistants and substitutes

1. FCCH assistant/substitute must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.

2. Prior to initial Department approval of being an assistant/substitute, the individual must show evidence of having successfully completed the following:

a. High school or GED (applicable for all providers initially licensed after the issuance of the 2007 Regulations);

b. Current certification under the most recent guidelines of the American Heart Association in:

(1) Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

(AA) Initial CPR certification must be done in person.

(BB) CPR recertification may be done in person or online.

(2) Pediatric first aid

(AA) Pediatric first aid training may be done in person or online.

c. A Comprehensive Background Check

d. Completion of Department approved pre-service training.,

e. Evidence of an annual physical and immunization information.

C. Staff Orientation

1. All new assistants must be oriented by the provider during their first (1^st) week in the program.

2. The orientation includes information regarding:

a. The Department's Family Child Care Home Regulations for Licensure;

b. State law governing child abuse and neglect, and reporting procedures; and

c. Program policies, procedures, and operations, as documented in the Program Handbook.

3. Within ninety (90) days of initial licensure and/or hire, all providers/substitutes/assistants must complete Department approved mandatory health and safety preservice training modules.

a. This preservice training may count towards the individual's required hours of professional development.

b. Any preservice training hours that exceed the required twelve (12) hours of annual professional development hours may be carried over to the following calendar year.

D. Professional Development

1. All Family Child Care Home Providers and full time assistants are required to complete twelve (12) hours of professional development training per calendar year.

a. For partial year programs, Family Child Care Home Providers and full time assistants are required to complete one (1) hour of professional development training per month of operation.

2. Assistants/substitutes who were hired to work less than twenty (20) hours per week are required to complete six (6) professional development hours per year, regardless of the program's operating schedule.

3. The required Professional Development Training must be approved through a process as determined by the Department or on the approved list provided by the PDTA Hub.

a. Four (4) of the required hours of training must be in one (1) of the following topics related to health and safety requirements:

(1) Prevention and control of infectious diseases (including immunization);

(2) Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and use of safe sleep practices;

(3) Administration of medication, consistent with standards for parental consent;

(4) Prevention and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions;

(5) Building and physical premises safety, including identification of and protection from hazards, bodies of water, and vehicular traffic;

(6) Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment;

(7) Emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies resulting from a natural disaster or a man-caused event (such as violence at a child care facility);

(8) Handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of bio contaminants;

(9) Appropriate precautions in transporting children (if applicable);

(10) Pediatric First-Aid and CPR; or

(11) Recognition and reporting of child abuse and neglect.

4. Approved professional development hours are documented through a transcript or completion certificate and an approval code.

5. Professional development hours are completed annually based on the calendar year or school year

6. Required professional development hours may be prorated if an individual is hired within the calendar year.

a. Prorated hours will equal two (2) hours per month when calculating for staff hired mid-year.

2.3.6Administration

A. Required Notifications

1. The provider is responsible for immediately notifying the Department, in writing, of major changes which affect the license, including:

a. Change of assistants or substitutes;

b. Change of household members;

c. Intent to change the legal name of the provider;

d. Intent to change the physical address/location of the program;

e. Intent to use different/additional spaces for child care;

f. Intent to change the numbers or ages of children served;

g. Changes in contact information including phone number and/or email address; and/or

h. Any other major changes in the program are subject to approval by the Department and may require a license change.

2. The provider is responsible for immediately notifying the Department in the event of an emergency situation, which includes:

a. Any death and/or serious injury (defined as needing medical attention) occurring during the hours of child care, or in the residence outside of child caring hours;

(1) If occurring during child care, after notifying emergency personnel, events of this nature should then be reported to the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families' Child Protective Services hotline (1-800-RI-CHILD/1-800-742-4453).

b. Activation of emergency personnel;

c. Occurrence of emergency or disaster; or

d. Failure of mechanical systems.

B. General Requirements

1. The program must not exceed the licensed capacity at any time.

2. The program must maintain liability insurance for the licensed program.

3. The provider must have a confidentiality policy that requires all providers, substitutes and assistants, to maintain confidentiality of the children and families in the program.

4. Children may not participate in activities including fundraising, publicity, and research, without informed, written consent from the parent/guardian.

5. Provider must post the Family Child Care Home License in a prominent place in the home where it is visible to parents/guardians.

6. At all times, every provider, substitute and assistant on site must have photo-identification available.

7. Provider must advertise its program as a FCCH and not a center-based program.

C. Arrival and Departure of Children

1. Children can only be released to the parent/guardian or to an adult, eighteen (18) years of age or older, who is authorized, in writing, by the parent/guardian to pick up the child and whose identity can be verified by proper picture identification.

2. Authorized individuals must manually or electronically sign the child in at drop off and sign the child out at pick up, using a time stamp and a full signature, name, or comparable identifier.

3. Programs must follow policies and procedures that include:

a. Recording and complying with all Orders relating to custody of the child and Restraining Orders regarding individuals authorized to have contact with the child and individuals authorized for the release of the child;

b. Maintaining written parental/guardian authorization for the release of the child to named individuals, to be updated annually;

c. Verifying the identity of authorized individuals, including proper picture identification; and

d. At the discretion of the provider, handling emergency call-in authorization by the parent/guardian, including verification of the identity of the parent/guardian over the phone.

4. If an individual attempting to pick up a child from the program appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the provider/substitute/assistant in charge of the program at the time:

a. Must not release the child;

b. Must contact the local police; and

c. Must contact the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families' Child Protective Services (CPS) hotline (1-800-RI-CHILD/1-800-742-4453).

5. There must be a written procedure for monitoring and documenting the arrival and departure of children bussed to and from the program for school.

D. Transportation of Children

1. If the provider chooses to provide transportation, a transportation policy must be written.

2. The program is required to adhere to State law and the Rules and Regulations of the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles, and comply with State Regulations for vehicles that transport children as part of the program regarding:

a. Registration;

b. Inspections; and

c. Insurance.

3. All individuals who provide transportation of children for the Family Child Care Home must:

a. Hold a valid Rhode Island Chauffeur's License or equivalent from another state (see R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 31-22 Miscellaneous Rules, R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-22-11.6 Child Care Vehicles and School Extra-Curricular Vehicles); and

b. Have a completed Comprehensive Background Check on file.

4. Children can never be left alone in the vehicle.

5. A face-to-name attendance check of all children must be completed (and documented) upon entrance to and departure from the vehicle.

6. Attendance and emergency information for each child being transported must be available in the vehicle when transportation is being provided.

7. When being transported, children must be properly secured in the appropriate safety restraint or car seat for their age.

8. At the discretion of the provider, and with adherence to the more stringent staffing patterns, public transportation may be used.

E. Handbooks

1. The program must develop a Family Child Care Home Handbook, to be approved by the Department.

2. The provider is responsible for communicating and implementing policies and procedures from the handbook.

F. Records and Files

1. The provider must maintain all required inspections, a copy of all paperwork and individual files for children and staff that are always available on-site during the hours of operation.

2. Provisions must be made to protect child files and reports to ensure confidentiality.

3. Parents/guardians may access their child's file at any time during the program hours of operation.

4. All program, staff, or children's records are subject to review and/or reproduction by the Department or designee, or the Office of the Child Advocate upon request during the program hours of operation.

5. Information contained in a child's file is only released to an outside entity with written authorization from the child's parent/guardian.

6. Each child's file must include:

a. An application form completed by the parent/guardian containing the child's name, birthdate, parent's/guardian's name, current address and phone number and work or school address and phone number;

b. Date of enrollment;

c. Evidence of annual health exam;

(1) Providers are not required to maintain documentation of an annual health examination for children who attend public, private, or parochial schools approved by the Rhode Island Department of Education.

(2) If a child is a foster child or is experiencing homelessness, a grace period of ninety (90) days can be granted to obtain the annual health examination documentation.

(3) Documentation of the annual health care exam must be provided by a healthcare professional;

(AA) Kidsnet is not an acceptable form of evidence of annual health exam.

d. Immunization record;

(1) Providers are not required to maintain immunization for children who attend public, private, or parochial schools approved by the Rhode Island Department of Education.

(2) If a child is a foster child or is experiencing homelessness, a grace period of ninety (90) days can be granted to obtain the immunization documentation.

e. Other relevant health documents, if applicable;

f. Pertinent social information on the child;

g. Written authorization from the parent/guardian for emergency medical treatment;

h. Written reports of injuries, accidents or illness occurring, and any treatment administered while the child was in care;

i. Information pertaining to the child's progress, growth and development, including IEP/IFSP information, if applicable;

j. Written authorization from the parent/guardian for the child to participate in and be transported for field trips, swimming, special activities or events, and other activities that are not part of the program's daily routine;

k. Names of individuals to whom the child may be released;

l. A parental consent form which authorizes or prohibits the program to photograph or videotape a child and to use images in publications, websites and social networking sites; and

m. All other records or reports pertaining to the child.

7. Files for Infants and Toddlers must contain the requirements in as stated in § 2.3.6(F) of this Part, as well as:

a. Developmental and health history;

b. Habits of feeding, foods used, and a schedule for introducing new foods;

c. Toilet and diapering habits and procedures;

d. Sleep and napping habits;

e. Child's way of communication and being comforted;

f. Play interests and habits; and

g. Personality and temperament specifics.

8. Children's files must be updated on an annual basis.

9. Each provider and all applicable assistant and substitute file must include:

a. Personal data sheet or application containing the staff's name, age, home address, phone, education and work experience;

b. Job description;

c. Comprehensive Background Check information;

d. Rhode Island Child Abuse and Neglect Registry Check;

e. Employment history affidavit

f. Documentation of employment history verification;

g. Health records as required by the Rhode Island Department of Health's Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Immunization and Communicable Disease Testing in Preschool, School, Colleges or Universities, 216-RICR-30-05-3;

h. Performance evaluations;

i. Documentation of qualifications;

j. Training plan and/or certification of professional development (as applicable for provider, substitutes and assistants)

k. Documentation of participation in orientation and pre-service training.

9. Programs must maintain the following documentation on-site for the Department's Administrator or designee to review upon request for a minimum of three (3) years:

a. Relevant inspections for physical facilities as stated in § 2.3.1(A) of this Part;

b. Sign in/sign out logs;

c. Daily injury/illness and medication administration logs;

d. Emergency drill log;

e. Documentation for program pets;

f. Field trip permission slips and related documentation; and

g. All other records or reports pertaining to the program and required by this Chapter.

10. Program and staff files must be updated regularly to include new information and changes in information.

2.3.7Learning and Development

A. Curriculum Content and Standards

1. The Family Child Care Home curriculum is informed by the provider's program philosophy, beliefs, best practices, and aligned to the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards.

2. The curriculum considers the developmentally appropriate needs of all children served.

3. The weekly curriculum plan must include:

a. A list of activities and opportunities available to children throughout the week;

b. Materials and equipment that are needed to support activities and opportunities; and

c. Relevant Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards for Infant, Toddler, and Preschool programs.

B. Process and Activities

1. Children must have access to a variety of experiences, activities, and opportunities.

2. Staff must provide developmentally appropriate experiences and environments that go beyond routine care and supervision.

3. Opportunities for moderate to vigorous physical activity (sixty (60) minutes total for a program operating for more than four (4) hours a day, and thirty (30) minutes total for a program operating for less than four (4) hours a day) must be available to children each day.

a. Children must be provided with space for physical activity both inside and outside.

b. Providers must ensure that infants have supervised tummy time every day when they are awake.

4. Television or other screen time (e.g., tablet or laptop use) is:

a. Prohibited for children under two (2) years old;

b. Prohibited during scheduled meal and snack times;

c. Limited to no more than thirty (30) minutes per week; except in situations including:

(1) Activities (not to exceed one (1) event per month, per group) such as watching a movie, provided that alternate supervised activities remain available; and

(2) School Age children's use of electronic media or e-readers for homework, reading, or hands on learning activities.

d. Related to planned activities;

e. Age appropriate for all children in care; and

f. Additional access to screen time may occur for children who have a documented care plan outlining the parameters around which the screen time is used. This care plan must be on site and part of the child's file.

C. Teaching and Facilitation

1. Providers, substitutes and assistants are required to:

a. Implement developmentally appropriate, planned activities;

b. Actively engage with all children;

c. Develop individual, meaningful relationships with children by providing care that is responsive, attentive, consistent, comforting, supportive and culturally sensitive;

d. Serve as a positive role model for children;

e. Use positive methods in guiding and redirecting children;

f. Encourage age appropriate behavior and set clear limits;

g. Match expectations with the children's developing abilities and capabilities;

h. Praise the children's accomplishments as well as their attempts at tasks;

i. Create a positive environment through their own behaviors such as frequent social conversations with children, joint laughter and affection, eye contact, pleasant tone of voice and smiles;

j. Recognize and respect children for their uniqueness as individuals;

k. Ensure that children are treated with courtesy, respect, acceptance, and patience; and

l. Assist children who present challenging behaviors by:

(1) Identifying and documenting factors that may predict or contribute to the challenging behavior;

(2) Making adaptations to the child's environment as necessary;

(3) Supporting families by sharing documentation and information; and

(4) Providing connection to relevant services and outside resources, when necessary.

2. Basic care for children under the age of two (2) years must include:

a. Individual attention to each infant including playing, talking, cuddling, and holding;

b. Holding and comforting a child who is upset;

c. Prompt attention given to physical needs, such as feeding and diapering; and

d. Talking to infants as they are fed, changed, and held, such as naming objects, singing, or saying rhymes.

3. Providers, substitutes and assistants must sit with children at the table during meals and snack time and engage with children to model appropriate mealtime behavior.

4. Programs must be able to communicate with children; whose primary language is not the same as the provider; or require alternative methods of communication.

5. The program must provide School Age children assistance with homework, as needed.

D. Context and Environment

1. Space used for child care must be arranged to promote play in different ways, including individualized and group play.

2. Child-accessible storage must be provided for children's belongings.

3. Classroom arrangement must:

a. Allow for clear pathways around the classroom;

b. Ensure visual supervision by staff;

c. Promote positive interactions; and

d. Provide the children with ample opportunity for freedom of movement in a safe, clean, and uncluttered area.

4. Family Child Care Homes serving children under the age of two (2) must have space that:

a. Encourages safe exploration;

b. Promotes teacher/child interaction; and

c. Is never used as a means of isolation.

5. The provider must have an adequate variety of developmentally appropriate materials available for indoor and outdoor play to promote exploration.

6. Play materials must be culturally inclusive and appropriate to the age, number, growth and developmental needs of the children in care.

7. Materials that require supervision must be stored out of reach of children.

8. Toys that explode or shoot, such as caps, guns and darts are not allowed.

9. Balloons are only allowed for special occasions such as birthdays, and their use must be under close adult supervision.

10. Rebounders (therapeutic trampolines) are allowed, if the trampoline has a welded handle, height of no more than nine inches (9"), and a diameter of no more than three feet (3').

11. Provider must post and follow a regular daily schedule.

12. Provider/substitute(s)/assistant(s) must make adaptations to the daily schedule to meet the interests and needs of the children, and to cope with weather changes, or other situations that may affect routines.

13. The daily schedule allows for:

a. Child-directed play;

b. Teacher-directed play;

c. Quiet and active play;

d. Large group, small group, and individual play;

e. Outdoor play;

f. Rest appropriate to the needs of children (non-sleeping children must have access to quiet activities); and

g. Additional routine care including but not limited to meals, snacks and toileting.

E. Child Assessment

1. Staff must work to connect families of Infants and Toddlers to Early Intervention services, if a developmental concern arises.

2. Providers must work collaboratively with local school districts to ensure Preschool children have the opportunity to participate in child outreach screening.

3. Screening can never be used to label a child, deny a child's entrance into the program, or to infer a child's readiness.

4. If the child has an IFSP, the program must work with the Early Intervention provider to support the child's IFSP.

5. If the child has an IEP, the program must work with the school district to support the child's IEP.

F. Family Engagement

1. Prior to enrollment, provider must provide opportunities for the child and parent/guardian to visit the program.

2. Provider must conduct and document a preadmission family conference for all children to be enrolled in the program.

3. Families must be kept informed through communication including the Family Child Care Home Handbook, periodic newsletters, and ongoing contact with provider and substitute(s)/assistant(s).

4. Provider must be able to communicate with families; whose primary language is not the same as the provider or require alternative methods of communication.

5. If a provider chooses to suspend or terminate a child for any reason the provider must provide written documentation to the parent/guardian, which includes the specific reasons for the proposed suspension or termination of the child, and the circumstances under which the child may return, if any.

6. A directory of community resources must be made available to all enrolled families.

7. The program must be open to families for observations and visits whenever the program is in operation.

8. Families must be given opportunities to engage in their child's learning experience and development.

9. Provider must make the Family Child Care Home Regulations for Licensure available to prospective parents/guardians and the parents/guardians of the children in care.

218 R.I. Code R. 218-RICR-70-00-2.3

Amended effective 12/6/2019
Amended effective 6/16/2020
Amended effective 7/7/2021
Amended effective 2/2/2022
Amended effective 6/20/2024