Regulation Reminders for FDC programs:
· 417.5(g)(1) – The use of spa pools, hot tubs and fill-and-drain wading pools is prohibited.
Here’s what you can do instead!
While spa pools, hot tubs, and fill-and-drain wading pools are not permitted, there are still plenty of fun and safe ways to help children stay cool! Sprinklers, splash mats and water tables are allowed and encouraged. These options not only meet safety standards but also provide engaging and refreshing outdoor experiences for children. Water play is not only a great way to beat the heat, it also supports sensory development, motor skills, and joyful summer memories.
Field Trips & Summer Adventures!
· 417.6(a)- The registrant must obtain written consent on forms furnished by the Office or approved equivalents from the parent of the child for any transportation of the children in care at the family day care home provided or arranged for by a caregiver.
While there isn’t a specific regulation that addresses field trips in FDC programs, any transportation of children, whether it’s a short ride to the park or a visit to the local library, programs must follow the transportation regulations. This means that programs must have an approved transportation plan in place before taking children off site. These plans help ensure that trips are safe and well-organized, giving children the opportunity to explore their communities while staying protected. Field trips can be a wonderful way to support hands on learning and summer fun! They also help children build social skills, gain confidence, and connect what they are learning to the world around them.
Regulation Reminders for SACC programs:
Off-Site Fun!
· 414.5(k) – If off-site events are part of the programs activities, the school age child care program must develop and share with its programs staff written plans that cover field trip events. The safety plan must at least include requirements set in 414.5(g), 414.6 and 414.8(o).
· 414.8(o)- The director must approve all plans for field trips, including the type of activity, development needs of children and whether there is need for additional staff to provide adequate supervision. Such plans must take into consideration the developmental needs of a child.
Field trips can be an exciting and meaningful part of the summer experience for school-age children. To keep everyone safe during these outings, it’s important that programs follow all transportation regulations, including having approved written safety plan, and the program director must approve them in advance. When done thoughtfully and safely, field trips create lasting memories and help children grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence.
Diving into Summer!
· 414.(5)(g)- The use of pools that have not received a Department of Health permit to operate, spa pools and all fill-and-drain wading pools are prohibited.
· 414.(g)(1) – No child shall participate in aquatic activities including fishing, boating, swimming or any other activity on a body of water without a certified lifeguard present.
· 414.5(i)- When swimming is included as a part of the program activities each child shall have a signed statement of permission from the parent to participate.
Swimming is a fun and refreshing way for school age children to enjoy the summer while staying active and building confidence in the water. Before participating in any swimming activities, programs must have written permission from each child’s parent or guardian and a certified lifeguard must always be present while swimming to ensure a safe environment for all children. With proper supervision and clear communication with families, swimming can be a wonderful addition to your summer programming that the children look forward to year after year.
