reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.08 - Child Supervision › Section 13A.16.08.02 - Supervision by Qualified Staff

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. At all times while in care, each child shall be assigned to a group of children that is supervised by an individual who:
(1) Meets the requirements of COMAR 13A.16.06.09 or .10, depending on the age composition of the group; or
(2) Has received a variance, issued by the Office, from the requirements of COMAR 13A.16.06.09 or .10 in order to serve as a teacher for the purpose of providing instruction to the group in a specific discipline such as, but not limited to, karate, dance, or music.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.08 - Child Supervision › Section 13A.16.08.03 - Group Size and Staffing

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Assignment of Staff. One or more child care teachers shall be assigned to each group of children as needed to meet the requirements for group size and staffing set forth at §§C- E of this regulation.
B. Age of a Child. For purposes of determining group size and staff required under this chapter, the age of a child is determined solely according to the date of the child's most recent birthday.
C. Same-Age Groups.
(1) In a group of children in which each child is younger than 2 years old, the following staff/child ratio and maximum group size requirements apply:
Child Ages
Staff/Child Ratio
Maximum Group Size
Infants
1 to 3
6
Toddlers
1 to 3
9
Infants and toddlers, with 1 or 2 infants in the group
1 to 3
9
Infants and toddlers, with 3 or more infants in the group
1 to 3
6
(2) In a group of children of the same age who are 2 years old or older, the following staff/child ratio and maximum group size requirements apply:
Child Ages
Staff/Child Ratio
Maximum Group Size
2 years old
1 to 6
12
3 or 4 years old
1 to 10
20
5 years old and older
1 to 15
30
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.08 - Child Supervision › Section 13A.16.08.04 - Variations in Group Size

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Group sizes for all ages may vary during outdoor play and special activities such as field trips and assemblies, only if the operator maintains the staff/child ratios required by this chapter.
B. Groups containing only school age children may be of any size, pursuant to a plan approved by the office, if the staff/child ratios required by this chapter are maintained.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.08 - Child Supervision › Section 13A.16.08.05 - Supervision During Water Activities

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall have prior written approval from a child's parent for the child's participation in a water activity.
B. If a wading or swimming area is 4 feet or less in depth, each child engaged in a water activity shall receive continuous supervision by a staff member.
C. If the water exceeds 4 feet in depth, there shall be a lifeguard present who:
(1) Holds a current certificate of approval for lifeguarding from the American Red Cross, YMCA, or other organization acceptable to the office or the local health department;
(2) Is present at waterside during the swimming activity; and
(3) Is not included in the required staff/child ratio.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.08 - Child Supervision › Section 13A.16.08.06 - Supervision During Transportation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
When child transportation is conducted to or from:
A. The center by the center operator, there shall be at least one adult, who has successfully passed federal and State criminal background checks and a review of child and adult abuse and neglect records pursuant to COMAR 13A.16.07.06D, other than the driver present in the vehicle if:
(1) More than eight preschoolers are being transported as a group; or
(2) At least one child is being transported and the driver of the vehicle is not:
(a) A center employee; or
(b) The parent of a child in care who is authorized by the operator to assist in transporting children in care; or
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.08 - Child Supervision › Section 13A.16.08.07 - Playground Supervision

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
When a group of children is engaged in a playground or outdoor activity, staff members assigned to the group shall:
A. Station themselves among the children so that immediate intervention can occur if necessary; and
B. If a child expresses or shows signs of discomfort due to over-activity, temperature or weather conditions, or other physical or environmental factors, take immediate and appropriate steps to alleviate the discomfort.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.08 - Child Supervision › Section 13A.16.08.08 - Rest Time Supervision

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. During a rest period for a group of children who are younger than 2 years old:
(1) The required staff/child ratio applicable to that group shall be maintained; and
(2) Each staff member assigned to the group shall remain with the children.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.09 - Program Requirements › Section 13A.16.09.01 - Schedule of Daily Activities for All Children

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The operator shall prepare, post, and follow a written schedule of daily activities and offer activities that:
(1) Promote the sound emotional, social, intellectual, and physical growth of each child;
(2) Are appropriate to the age, needs, and capabilities of the child based on the current recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, such as short periods of tummy time, under adult supervision, while awake for a child under 12 months old;
(3) Include opportunities for individual and group participation;
(4) Include a balance between self-selected and staff-directed activities;
(5) Include a balance between active and quiet periods;
(6) Include periods of rest appropriate to the age, needs, and activities of the child; and
(7) Include outdoor play in the morning and afternoon except that outdoor play need not be included:
(a) When the weather is inclement; or
(b) In a before-school program.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.09 - Program Requirements › Section 13A.16.09.02 - Activity Plans for Infants and Toddlers

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall assign one staff member primary responsibility for each infant or toddler in care during each staff shift.
B. Upon enrollment of an infant or toddler, the operator shall arrange for the director or senior staff, in consultation with the parent of the child, to prepare a written individualized activity plan for the child that:
(1) Addresses the child's normal pattern of activities, sleeping, and eating;
(2) Is consistent with the child's needs and capabilities;
(3) Identifies the staff member who is assigned primary responsibility for the care of the child during each staff shift;
(4) Ensures that the child is:
(a) Held, played with, and talked to;
(b) Except when sleeping, given opportunities to sit, crawl, toddle, or walk outside the infant's crib or playpen;
(c) Except in inclement weather, taken outdoors daily; and
(d) Diapered as needed and in accordance with the approved diapering procedure.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.09 - Program Requirements › Section 13A.16.09.03 - Activity Materials, Equipment, and Furnishings

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. For indoor and outdoor activities, an operator shall provide to each group of children in care a sufficient quantity and variety of activity materials, equipment, and furnishings according to the numbers, ages, and developmental needs of the children.
B. Activity materials and equipment shall be:
(1) Provided for:
(a) Vigorous play;
(b) Creative and dramatic play;
(c) Socialization;
(d) Manipulation, including construction materials;
(e) Exploration of art, music, language arts, and science; and
(f) Individual pursuits;
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.09 - Program Requirements › Section 13A.16.09.04 - Rest Furnishings

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. There shall be:
(1) A suitable cot or mat for each child 12 months old to 5 years old present in the center for more than 4 hours, and for children 5 years old or older who regularly take rest periods in the center;
(2) A suitable bed for each child who is 12 months old or older and who is present in the center during those hours which are usual nighttime sleep hours for that child;
(3) An adequate supply of clean bedding provided for each child who takes rest periods at the center; and
(4) A crib with a snugly fitting mattress, moisture-proof mattress covering, and tight fitting sheet for each child in the center who is:
(a) Younger than 12 months old; or
(b) An infant 12 months old or older or a toddler, if the child's parent requests a crib.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.09 - Program Requirements › Section 13A.16.09.05 - Infant-Toddler Equipment

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A sufficient number of strollers or carriages with appropriate restraints shall be available to accommodate all non-walking infants present in care.
B. The use of walkers is prohibited.
C. The center shall have furnishings that allow the safe and easy feeding of children younger than 2 years old, including but not limited to high chairs, toddler tables, and chairs for staff members to use while holding infants for feeding.
D. If high chairs are used, each high chair shall be equipped with age-appropriate restraints.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.09 - Program Requirements › Section 13A.16.09.06 - Storage

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
There shall be appropriate storage for:
A. Materials and equipment;
B. Mats, cots, beds, and bedding;
C. Portable equipment intended for outdoor use;
D. Each child's clothing and possessions in an individual space; and
E. Materials, equipment, furnishings, and supplies being held in reserve.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.10 - Safety › Section 13A.16.10.01 - Emergency Safety Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Emergency and Disaster Plan.
(1) At least one center employee shall:
(a) Complete emergency preparedness training that is approved by the office; and
(b) As part of the approved emergency preparedness training, prepare a written emergency and disaster plan for the center.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.10 - Safety › Section 13A.16.10.02 - First Aid and CPR

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. At all times, including during an off-site activity, at least one child care teacher or the director shall be present who holds a current certificate indicating successful completion of approved:
(1) Basic first aid training through the American Red Cross, or a program with equivalent standards, which is appropriate to all child age groups for which the center is approved; and
(2) Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training through the American Heart Association, or a program with equivalent standards, which is appropriate to all child age groups for which the center is approved.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.10 - Safety › Section 13A.16.10.03 - Safe Use of Materials and Equipment

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The operator shall ensure that furnishings, activity materials, and equipment, whether intended for indoor use or outdoor use, are used:
A. In a safe and appropriate manner by each employee and each child in attendance; and
B. As applicable, in accordance with manufacturer instructions or recommendations.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.10 - Safety › Section 13A.16.10.04 - Potentially Hazardous Items

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall store all potentially harmful items, including but not limited to the items described in §§B-F of this regulation, in locations which are inaccessible to children in care.
B. Petroleum and flammable products shall be stored in an approved manner.
C. Cleaning and sanitizing agents and poisonous products shall be stored apart from food and beverages.
D. Containers of poisonous products may not be kept on the premises unless they are labeled clearly as to nature, content, and approved purposes.
E. A pesticide may be used only if it is:
(1) Approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency;
(2) Used according to the manufacturer's instructions;
(3) Used only when children are not in care; and
(4) Stored apart from food, beverages, and cleaning agents.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.10 - Safety › Section 13A.16.10.05 - Rest Time Safety

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Unless specified otherwise in writing by the child's physician, or other licensed health care provider, a child who:
(1) Cannot roll over without assistance shall be placed for sleep on the child's back; or
(2) Is younger than 12 months old but can roll over unassisted shall be placed for sleep on the child's back, but may be allowed to adopt whatever position the child prefers for sleep.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.10 - Safety › Section 13A.16.10.06 - Transportation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Unless being transported in a licensed school bus or contract motor coach, each child who is transported in a vehicle while in care shall be separately secured in a child car seat or seat belt which is appropriate for the child's age and weight, as specified by Maryland law.
B. A vehicle used to transport a child in care shall comply with all applicable State and federal safety requirements.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.11 - Health › Section 13A.16.11.01 - Exclusion for Acute Illness

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Child care staff shall:
(1) Monitor a child for signs and symptoms of acute illness;
(2) Notify a child's parent or other designated person upon observing a sign or symptom of acute illness; and
(3) Provide temporary isolation for the affected child in a suitably equipped separate area within sight and hearing of an adult.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.11 - Health › Section 13A.16.11.02 - Infectious and Communicable Diseases

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall immediately transmit to the health officer a report of the name and address of a child or a staff member who appears to be infected with a reportable communicable disease or who has been exposed to a reportable communicable disease as indicated in COMAR 10.06.01.03D.
B. Except in centers for children with acute illness, an operator may not knowingly admit to care or retain in care a child with a transmissible infection or a communicable disease during the period of exclusion recommended for that infection or disease as shown in the Communicable Disease Summary, as published by the Maryland Department of Health, unless the health officer grants approval for the child to attend child care during that period.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.11 - Health › Section 13A.16.11.03 - Preventing Spread of Disease

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A written handwashing procedure approved by the office shall be posted at each sink used for washing hands.
B. Hands shall be washed according to the posted approved procedure by a center employee, substitute, volunteer, or child in care at least:
(1) After toileting or diapering;
(2) Before food preparation or eating; and
(3) After an outdoor activity or handling an animal.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.11 - Health › Section 13A.16.11.04 - Medication Administration and Storage

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Medication Administration.
(1) Medication, whether prescription or nonprescription, may not be administered to a child in care unless:
(a) Parental permission to administer the medication is documented on a completed, signed, and dated medication authorization form, provided by the office, that is received at the center before the medication is administered; and
(b) A licensed health practitioner has approved the administration of the medication and the medication dosage.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.11 - Health › Section 13A.16.11.05 - Alcohol, Tobacco, Cannabis, and Other Drugs

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. If a resident smokes or vapes any substance, including but not limited to tobacco or cannabis, the provider shall make this known in advance to parents who are considering placing their children in the center's care.
B. A resident may not consume alcohol during the center's approved hours of operation.
C. A provider and any other individual may not consume alcohol during the center's approved hours of operation.
D. During the center's hours of operation, if an enrolled child is or will be on the premises, the provider or any other individual may not smoke or vape or permit smoking or vaping in any indoor or outdoor area approved for child care use.
E. A provider and any other individual may not consume or be under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or an illegal or nonprescribed controlled dangerous substance while:
(1) Present at the child care center during the center's hours of operation; or
(2) Providing or assisting with the care of children during an off-site program activity or during transport.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.12 - Nutrition › Section 13A.16.12.01 - Food Service

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Food and Beverages.
(1) Food and beverages that are furnished by an operator for meals or snacks, or both, shall comply with the guidelines of the Child and Adult Care Food Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as indicated on a chart supplied by the office.
(2) For children in care, unless provided by the child's parent, the operator shall furnish:
(a) All beverages, including beverages for meals and snacks; and
(b) Milk with all meals.
(3) A beverage furnished by the operator may not contain an added sweetener or caffeine, except for:
(a) Infant formula: or
(b) A beverage prescribed for a child by a health care provider.
(4) If a child is:
(a) Younger than 2 years old, milk furnished to the child shall be supplied or approved by the child's parent; or
(b) 2 years old or older, milk furnished to the child by the operator shall be 1% fat milk or nonfat milk, unless otherwise ordered by a health care provider or requested by the child's parent.
(5) The operator may arrange with a child's parent to furnish milk of a type that is different from the milk ordinarily furnished by the operator.
(6) The operator shall keep a supply of nutritious food on hand in order to provide food to a child whose parent has not supplied:
(a) Food for meals or snacks; or
(b) Sufficient food to meet the standards of the Child and Adult Care Food Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.12 - Nutrition › Section 13A.16.12.02 - Modified Diet

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
If an operator agrees to accept a child who requires a modified diet for:
A. Medical reasons, the operator shall obtain from the child's parent a written prescription for the diet signed and dated by the child's licensed health practitioner within the previous 6 months; or
B. Cultural or religious reasons, the operator shall obtain written, dated instructions for the diet signed by the child's parent.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.12 - Nutrition › Section 13A.16.12.03 - Food Sources

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall furnish food at the center only if it is wholesome and free from spoilage, filth, or other contamination and obtained from sources that comply with all laws relating to food, food processing, food handling, and food labeling.
B. If an operator contracts to have food furnished from an outside source, such as a catering service, the operator shall ensure that the food:
(1) Has been prepared and processed in a licensed food service facility or in a licensed food processing plant; or
(2) Consists of a snack or party food which is not potentially hazardous and does not present a significant risk of transmitting food-borne disease.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.12 - Nutrition › Section 13A.16.12.04 - Food Storage and Preparation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall:
(1) Protect all food from contamination while it is being stored, transported, or displayed; and
(2) Prepare and serve food, including infant formula, in a safe, sanitary, and healthful manner.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.12 - Nutrition › Section 13A.16.12.05 - Food Preparation Area and Equipment

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Appliances and equipment in the food preparation area shall be:
(1) Cleaned and sanitized;
(2) In good repair;
(3) Capable of normal operation; and
(4) Not conducive to the harboring of insects and rodents.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.12 - Nutrition › Section 13A.16.12.06 - Infant Feeding

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The operator shall ensure that the written feeding schedule for an infant or toddler, as required by COMAR 13A.16.03.02D(1), is:
(1) Followed; and
(2) Updated as necessary or at least every 3 months while the child is in care.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.13 - Centers for Children with Acute Illness › Section 13A.16.13.01 - Location of Center

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
An office may issue a license for a room in a child care center or for an entire center offering care to children with acute illness.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.13 - Centers for Children with Acute Illness › Section 13A.16.13.02 - Applicability of Subtitle

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
An applicant for a center offering care under this chapter shall meet the requirements of this subtitle with the exception of:
A. COMAR 13A.16.05.12D concerning outdoor activity areas;
B. COMAR 13A.16.09.01D concerning schedule of daily activities for all children;
C. COMAR 13A.16.09.03B(1) and (2) concerning activity materials and equipment;
D. COMAR 13A.16.09.05AA concerning carriages and strollers, if care is provided to children younger than 2 years old;
E. COMAR 13A(3)(c) concerning emergency evacuation and disaster drills for children; and
F. COMAR 13A concerning exclusion for acute illness.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.13 - Centers for Children with Acute Illness › Section 13A.16.13.03 - Plan of Operation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An applicant for a center offering care under this chapter shall:
(1) Submit to and receive prior approval from the office, in consultation with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the health officer, of a written plan of operation for the center, including provision for health assessment of ill children; and
(2) Operate according to the approved plan.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.13 - Centers for Children with Acute Illness › Section 13A.16.13.04 - Director Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The director in a center for children with acute illness shall:
A. Meet the requirements of COMAR 13A, .06, .07, or .08, as applicable; and
B. Have completed at least 40 hours of training in a college level course in prevention and control of communicable diseases and care of ill children.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.13 - Centers for Children with Acute Illness › Section 13A.16.13.05 - Use of Health Consultant

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
An operator shall use a health consultant who is a registered nurse, a pediatric or family nurse practitioner, or a pediatrician to develop written policies and procedures and to supervise and instruct staff on performing procedures.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.14 - Adolescent Centers › Section 13A.16.14.01 - Requirements for Approval

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
An applicant for a center offering care to children attending a middle school shall:
A. Meet the requirements of this subtitle; or
B. Do both of the following:
(1) Submit to and receive prior approval from the office of a written plan of operation for the center that meets the intent of the requirements of this subtitle; and
(2) Operate according to the approved plan.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.14 - Adolescent Centers › Section 13A.16.14.02 - Plan of Operation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A plan of operation submitted pursuant to Regulation .01 of this chapter shall include:
A. A definition of the population to be served and the criteria for admission;
B. Center staffing information and a staffing pattern for the program at the center;
C. The space, materials, equipment, and furnishings to be used at the center;
D. The days and hours of operation;
E. Locations other than the center which will be used for activities;
F. Activities to be held at locations other than the center;
G. A method of accounting for children's whereabouts;
H. A method for assuring parental approval for activities held at locations other than the center;
I. A method for having a consistent staff member available to each child;
J. A transportation plan, if necessary; and
K. A nutritional plan as required.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.15 - Drop-In Centers › Section 13A.16.15.02 - Scope of Care

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A drop-in center shall provide care exclusively to children on an intermittent and occasional basis for less than 4 hours a day while parents are not on the same premises or not immediately available, or both. Drop-in centers include child care centers located in shopping malls or shopping centers for the occasional use of customers, child care centers located in resorts for vacationers, and similar settings.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.15 - Drop-In Centers › Section 13A.16.15.03 - Applicability of Subtitle

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
An applicant for a drop-in center license shall meet the requirements of this subtitle with the exception of:
A. COMAR 13A concerning admission to care;
B. COMAR 13A concerning outdoor activity area;
C. COMAR 13A(7) concerning outdoor play;
D. COMAR 13A.16.09.03B(1) and (2) concerning materials and equipment;
E. COMAR 13A(3)(c) concerning emergency evacuation and disaster drills for children; and
F. COMAR 13A concerning food service.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.15 - Drop-In Centers › Section 13A.16.15.04 - Plan of Operation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An applicant for a drop-in center license shall:
(1) Submit to and receive prior approval from the office of a written plan of operation for the center; and
(2) Operate according to the approved plan.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.15 - Drop-In Centers › Section 13A.16.15.05 - Special Variances

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
An applicant may request variances for COMAR 13A.16.05.03AA concerning indoor space requirements, and COMAR 13A.16.08.03A concerning group size and staffing.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.15 - Drop-In Centers › Section 13A.16.15.06 - Admission Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A child younger than 2 years old may not be admitted to a drop-in center.
B. The operator shall:
(1) Require the parent of each child to complete and sign an emergency card and health history form on the child before the child's admission to the center; and
(2) Ensure that the emergency card and health history form are signed and updated, if necessary, by the parent each time the child is dropped off at the center.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.01 - Purpose and Scope

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Purpose. This chapter establishes requirements for approval to operate an educational program in a nonpublic nursery school.
B. Scope. This chapter does not apply to an educational program in a nonpublic nursery school operated by:
(1) The federal government or any State, county, or municipal agency or division of these; or
(2) A bona fide church organization that is exempt from holding a certificate of approval by the State Board under Education Article, §
										2-206, Annotated Code of Maryland.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.02 - Definitions

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.
B. Terms Defined.
(1) "AMI" means Association Montessori International.
(2) "AMS" means American Montessori Society.
(3) "Certificate of approval" means the document issued by the State Board to the legal authority responsible for governing and operating a school if the school has met the requirements of this chapter.
(4) "Child care center license" means the document issued by the Department pursuant to COMAR 13A.16 that authorizes the recipient to operate a child care center.
(5) "Class" means a group of students scheduled to report regularly to a teacher at a particular time and place for the implementation of an educational program.
(6) "Department" means the State Department of Education.
(7) "Department representative" means an individual designated by the Department to determine compliance with this chapter.
(8) "Educational program" means an organized program of instruction that:
(a) Is provided by a teacher; and
(b) Meets the requirements of Regulation .07 of this chapter.
(9) "Institution of higher education (IHE)" means a college or university that is accredited by an accrediting commission of one of the regional associations of colleges and schools.
(10) "Letter of compliance" means a document issued by the Department pursuant to COMAR 13A.17 that authorizes the recipient to operate a letter of compliance facility.
(11) "MACTE" means Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education.
(12) "NAMTA" means North American Montessori Teachers' Association.
(13) "Nursery school" means an educational program for children who are 2 years old, 3 years old, 4 years old, or any consecutive sequence of these ages.
(14) "Office" means the central office or a regional office of the Department's Division of Early Childhood Development, Office of Child Care.
(15) "Operator" means:
(a) The nonpublic entity registered as active with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation that is responsible for governing and operating a school;
(b) The individual or entity to which a child care center license or a letter of compliance has been issued by the Department; or
(c) A bona fide church organization that is approved by the State Board to operate an educational program.
(16) "State Board" means the Maryland State Board of Education.
(17) "Teacher" means an individual who:
(a) Provides instruction to children enrolled in an educational program; and
(b) Meets the requirements of Regulation .06C of this chapter.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.03 - Approval to Operate an Educational Program - General Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An individual or entity may operate an educational program in a nonpublic nursery school only if the individual or entity holds a valid child care license or letter of compliance issued by the Department.
B. A bona fide church organization may be approved to operate an educational program without holding a child care center license or a letter of compliance if child care is not a component of the program.
C. An entity may operate a Montessori school only if it is certified by a Montessori validating organization.
D. The operator of a licensed small center may not be approved to operate an educational program if:
(1) The small center is located in a private residence; and
(2) The program would be operated in the living space of the residence.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.04 - Approval to Operate an Educational Program - Specific Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Application for Approval.
(1) Application for approval shall be made in a manner and form and according to timelines established by the office.
(2) The applicant shall submit all information that the office considers necessary in order to ascertain compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
(3) An operator approved to operate an educational program may not apply for approval to operate another educational program if the educational program for which the operator is currently approved is not in full compliance with all applicable requirements of this chapter.
(4) An application for licensure as a Montessori school may not be approved until the applicant has successfully completed the process of validation, as required at COMAR 13A.09.09.03N, by an approved Montessori validating organization.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.05 - Compliance and Inspections

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Continued approval to operate an educational program is conditioned on the operator's maintaining compliance with this chapter.
B. To evaluate compliance with this chapter, the office may inspect the educational program, with or without prior notice to the operator, at any time during the approved hours of operation of the program.
C. During an inspection, the operator shall permit the Department representative access to any activity, person, material, document, or other information or source of information connected with the educational program that is considered necessary by the Department representative for the purpose of the inspection.
D. Following each inspection of the educational program, the office shall provide the operator with a written report of all findings of the inspection.
E. If the educational program fails to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of this chapter, the office shall notify the operator in writing of the:
(1) Regulation or regulations with which the program does not demonstrate compliance;
(2) Fact or facts that demonstrate the program's noncompliance with each regulation;
(3) Action or actions the operator is required to take to demonstrate compliance with each regulation; and
(4) Date by which the program is required to demonstrate compliance with each regulation.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.06 - Personnel Qualifications

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Educational Program Administrator.
(1) The operator shall have an educational program administrator or director who is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the educational program.
(2) An individual hired as the educational program administrator at a minimum shall meet the standards established in §C(3) of this Regulation.
(3) The operator shall have a written position description that states the duties and responsibilities of the educational program administrator.
(4) The educational program administrator shall have sufficient time during each educational program day to carry out the duties and responsibilities stated in the written position description of the educational program administrator.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.07 - Educational Program

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Program. The operator shall implement and maintain at the nonpublic nursery school a written curriculum of the nonpublic nursery school's educational program for the development of skills for each approved nursery school age in the following areas:
(1) Personal and social development;
(2) Language and literacy development;
(3) Mathematical and scientific thinking;
(4) Social studies;
(5) The arts; and
(6) Physical development and health.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.08 - Child Records

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The operator of an educational program in a nonpublic nursery school shall maintain a cumulative record for each child enrolled in the educational program.
B. Each child's record shall include the:
(1) Nonpublic nursery school's name;
(2) Nonpublic nursery school's address;
(3) Nonpublic nursery school's telephone number;
(4) Child's first, middle, and last names;
(5) Child's month, day, and year of birth;
(6) Child's home address;
(7) Month, day, and year the child initially entered the educational program;
(8) Age on enrollment in the educational program;
(9) Month, day, and year the child withdrew from the educational program, if applicable;
(10) Child's performance information in each curricular area;
(11) Code for the meaning of performance information; and
(12) Number of days the child attended in each school year.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.09 - Health, Fire Safety, and Zoning

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall obtain and maintain documentation verifying current compliance with health, fire safety, and zoning regulations applicable to a nonpublic nursery school.
B. In a licensed child care center or a letter of compliance facility, the requirements of §A of this regulation are met by complying with pertinent health, fire safety, and zoning requirements set forth under COMAR 13A.16 or COMAR 13A.17, as applicable.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.16 - Educational Programs in Nonpublic Nursery Schools › Section 13A.16.16.10 - Procedures and Sanctions for Noncompliance - Educational Programs

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
If the Department believes that a nonpublic nursery school does not meet the conditions or standards on which the certificate of approval of the school was based, the Department shall implement procedures and sanctions for noncompliance approved by the State Board.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.17 - Inspections, Complaints, and Enforcement › Section 13A.16.17.01 - Complaints

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The office shall investigate:
A. Both written and oral complaints that relate to a potential violation of a regulation under this subtitle, including anonymous complaints; and
B. Complaints of providing or advertising unlicensed child care.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.17 - Inspections, Complaints, and Enforcement › Section 13A.16.17.02 - Inspections

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An operator shall permit inspection of all areas of the center by an agency representative during the center's hours of operation.
B. An agency representative may make inspections without prior notice to an operator.
C. Upon request, an operator shall make the records required by this subtitle available to an agency representative for inspection and copying.
D. An operator may request satisfactory identification from an agency representative before admitting the agency representative for an inspection.
E. An agency representative shall inspect each center:
(1) On an announced basis before the office issues an initial license or a continuing license; and
(2) On an unannounced basis, at least once within each 12-month period after the date that an initial license or a continuing license was issued.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.17 - Inspections, Complaints, and Enforcement › Section 13A.16.17.03 - Warnings

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
If an investigation of a complaint or an inspection of a child care center indicates a violation of this subtitle that does not present an immediate threat to the health, safety, and welfare of a child in care, the office may issue a warning in writing, on an inspection report or by separate letter, that states:
A. The violation found, citing the regulation;
B. The time period for correcting the violation; and
C. That failure to correct the violation may result in sanctions being imposed or in suspension or revocation of the license.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.17 - Inspections, Complaints, and Enforcement › Section 13A.16.17.04 - Intermediate Sanctions

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Upon a determination that an operator has violated the regulations in this subtitle, placing the health, safety, or welfare of children in care at risk, the office may:
(1) Restrict the ages or number of new children enrolled;
(2) Reduce the number of children in care;
(3) Require the operator or center staff to participate in training in a specified content area;
(4) Increase the frequency of monitoring of the center during a specified period of time;
(5) Enter into an agreement with the operator detailing requirements for remedying violations and achieving compliance; and
(6) Notify, or require the operator to notify, a parent of a child who may be affected by the situation for which an intermediate sanction has been imposed.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.17 - Inspections, Complaints, and Enforcement › Section 13A.16.17.04-1 - Emergency Intermediate Sanctions

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Upon determining that an operator has violated the regulations in this subtitle and that action is required to protect the health, safety, or welfare of children in care, the Office may:
(1) Restrict the ages of children in care;
(2) Reduce the number of children in care;
(3) Limit the spaces, rooms, or areas that may be used for child care;
(4) Prohibit an employee, staff member, substitute, or volunteer who has successfully passed all checks under COMAR 13A.16.02.01I from being alone with a child or group of children pending an open child protective services or criminal investigation;
(5) Require the operator or center staff to participate in training in a specified content area;
(6) Increase the frequency of monitoring of the center during a specified period of time;
(7) Enter into an agreement with the operator detailing requirements for remedying violations and achieving compliance; and
(8) Notify, or require the operator to notify, a parent of a child who may be affected by the situation for which an emergency intermediate sanction has been imposed.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 13A - STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION › Subtitle 16 - CHILD CARE CENTERS › Chapter 13A.16.17 - Inspections, Complaints, and Enforcement › Section 13A.16.17.05 - Suspension

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The office may suspend an operator's license for a period of not more than 60 calendar days:
(1) Upon determining that the:
(a) Regulations in this subtitle have been violated; and
(b) Health, safety, or welfare of children in the center is threatened; or