Program requirements

1. The group child care provider shall have a program of daily individual or small group activities appropriate to the ages and needs of the children in the group child care. The program must include activities which foster sound social, cognitive, emotional, and physical growth, and the program must be developed with consideration of parental input. A written daily routine including mealtimes, rest times, planned developmentally appropriate activities, free play, and outside time must be available to parents. The daily routine must be flexible enough to allow for spontaneous activity as appropriate. 2. The provider shall design the program with intervals of stimulation and relaxation, and a balance between periods of active play and quiet play or rest. The daily routine must be written, but subject to change. The daily routine must foster the development of good health habits and self-discipline, adequate indoor and outdoor play, rest, and sleep, with sufficient time and opportunities for various experiences. 3. The program must provide a variety of educational experiences for all ages of children served with an adequate supply of safe play equipment, toys, and materials for indoor and outdoor activity. Each group child care must have enough play materials and equipment so that each child in attendance may be involved individually or as a group. 4. Areas used for napping must provide an opportunity for undisturbed rest. The provider shall set napping schedules for children in consultation with their parents, according to the children's ages and needs. 5. At the time of enrollment, the provider shall meet with the parents to discuss the child's habits, activities, and schedules while at home and in school and the parent's special concerns about the child's past and future behavior and development. The provider shall design the schedule and activities to complement and supplement the child's experiences at home or in school. 6. The group child care provider shall contact parents to exchange information concerning the child and any concerns about the health, development, or behavior of the child. These concerns must be communicated to parents promptly and directly. 7. Staff members shall stress personal hygiene practices appropriate for a child's age and development. 8. Each child's cultural and ethnic background and primary language or dialect must be respected by the staff members.