Action | Revisions to the Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers |
Stage | NOIRA |
Comment Period | Ended on 1/31/2024 |
G. "Infants, toddlers, and twos shall have a separate outdoor play area or shall not occupy the outdoor play area at the same time......."
* 1) Does not common sense simply dictate what a wonderful developmental advantage a 2 year old is provided when the opportunity to play and engage with older peers is allowed - just as there is an equal advantage for 3 year olds and above to interact with a group of younger friends? Eliminating this essential, developmental opportunity is a disservice.
Allow required ratios in a combined setting with the youngest age group represented be the guiding principle - (in this case - staffing 8:1 for 2 year olds and above).
* 2) Creates another added expense. Adding fencing/barriers to playgrounds or requiring paying additional staff to be present on the playground, or forced to limit outdoor time for children.