The proposed amendments by the Child Care Program Office (CCPO) of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) to F.A.C. Chapter 65C-20, F.A.C., are necessary for the uniform and proper administration and enforcement of State of Florida ...
DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES
Family Safety and Preservation ProgramRULE NO: RULE TITLE
65C-20.008: Application
65C-20.009: Staffing Requirements
65C-20.010: Health Related Requirements
65C-20.011: Health Records
65C-20.012: Enforcement
65C-20.013: Large Family Child Care Homes (LFCCH)
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The proposed amendments by the Child Care Program Office (CCPO) of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) to F.A.C. Chapter 65C-20, F.A.C., are necessary for the uniform and proper administration and enforcement of State of Florida child care training and licensure policies and procedures.
The granting of rule writing authority to the CCPO of all Child Development Associate Equivalency (CDAE) programs by the legislature in 2004 as well as the statewide Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) initiative in 2005, warrant the amendments to the rule in the area of child care personnel training in order to provide clarification and unwavering guidance to the public on the “staff credential” policy required by the State in large family child care homes.
The rule amendments in the area of child care licensing are necessary for the clarification of policies and procedures relating to child safety and health issues and to preserve the public welfare generally.
SUBJECT AREA TO BE ADDRESSED: Child Care Standards.
SPECIFIC AUTHORITY: 402.302, 402.305 FS.
LAW IMPLEMENTED: 402.302, 402.305 FS.
IF REQUESTED IN WRITING AND NOT DEEMED UNNECESSARY BY THE AGENCY HEAD, A RULE DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP WILL BE HELD AT THE TIME, DATE AND PLACE SHOWN BELOW (IF NOT REQUESTED, THESE HEARINGS WILL NOT BE HELD)::
TIME AND DATE: August 7, 2006, 9:00 a.m.
PLACE: Room 361A, Bldg. 6, 3rd Floor, Department of Children and Families, 1317 Winewood Blvd., Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0700
DATE AND TIME: August 7, 2006, 9:00 a.m.
PLACE: Room 123, Department of Children and Families, 2295 Victoria Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901
DATE AND TIME: August 7, 2006, 9:00 a.m.
PLACE: Room 148, 1st Floor, Department of Children and Families, 210 N. Palmetto Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114
THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT AND A COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY DRAFT, IF AVAILABLE, IS: Carrie Pafford, Government Operations Consultant II, 1317 Winewood Blvd., Building 6, Room 388, Tallahassee, FL 32399, (850)488-4900
THE PRELIMINARY TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT IS:65C-20.008 Application.
(1) Application for a license or for renewal of a license to operate a family day care home must shall be made on CF-FSP Form 5133, April Feb. 20064, Application for a License to Operate a Family Day Care Home, which is incorporated herein by reference., CF-FSP Form 5133 may can be obtained from the licensing authority or on by going to the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare/information.
(2) For the purpose of issuing a license, any out-of-state criminal offence, which if committed in Florida, would constitute a disqualifying felony offense, shall be treated as a disqualifying felony offense for screening purposes under this rule.
(2)(3) A completed CF-FSP Form 5133 application for renewal of an annual license must be submitted to the licensing authority at least 45 days prior to the expiration date of the current license to ensure that a lapse of licensure does not occur. The renewal application and required forms may be obtained from the licensing authority.
(3)(4) An submitted CF-FSP Form 5133 application will not be considered complete until the licensing authority receives proof of background screening clearance on the operator/applicant of the family day care home and the operator/applicant provides proof to the licensing authority, that the screening materials have been submitted on all other household members who are subject to background screening. A screening conducted under this rule is valid for five (5) years, at which time a statewide re-screening must be conducted. The 5 year re-screening must include, at a minimum, statewide criminal records checks through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and a local criminal records check. In addition, the operator/applicant must be re-screened following a break in operation of the family day care home which exceeds 90 days. A person in this category must undergo the same level of screening which was required at the time of initial operation of the family day care home. If operator/applicant takes a leave of absence, such as maternity leave, extended sick leave, etc., re-screening is not required unless the 5 year re-screening has come due during the leave of absence. An employment history check for the previous two years at a minimum, which must include at least the last three jobs, is also required as part of background screening. An employment history check conducted under this rule, shall include not only confirmation of employment dates from previous job(s), but may also include position held and job performance. Additionally, an Affidavit of Good Moral Character, CF-FSP 1649, Aug. 04, which is incorporated by reference, must be completed annually for all operators/applicants. CF-FSP 1649 may be obtained from the licensing authority or by accessing the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/ childcare/information.
(a) An employment history check is required as part of background screening, must include the previous two (2) years and must be maintained in the department's licensing file.
1. An employment history check conducted under this rule shall include the applicant's position deion, confirmation of employment dates from previous job(s), and level of job performance.
2. CF-FSP Form 1649, September 2005, An Affidavit of Good Moral Character, which is incorporated by reference, must be completed for all operators/applicants and all adult household members annually or in accordance with local licensing agency compliance and must be maintained in the department's licensing file. CF-FSP 1649 may be obtained from the licensing authority or on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida. com/childcare.
3. For the purpose of issuing a license, any out-of-state criminal offense, which if committed in Florida would constitute a disqualifying felony offense, shall be treated as a disqualifying felony offense for screening purposes under this rule.
4. A screening conducted under this rule is valid for five (5) years, at which time a five (5) year re-screen must be conducted.
a. The five (5) year re-screen is required for the operator/applicant and all other household members, including juveniles and substitutes, and must be maintained in the department's licensing file.
b. The five (5) year re-screen must include, at a minimum, statewide criminal records checks through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and a local criminal records check.
c. An operator/applicant must be re-screened following a break in operation of the family day care home that exceeds 90 days. A person in this category must undergo the same level of screening that was required at the time of initial operation of the family day care home. If operator/applicant takes a leave of absence, such as maternity leave, extended sick leave, etc., re-screening is not required unless the five (5) year re-screen has come due during the leave of absence.
Specific Authority 402.313 FS. Law Implemented 402.313 FS. History–New 7-2-98, Amended 7-13-03, 9-12-04,________.
65C-20.009 Staffing Requirements.
(1) Definitions.
(a) “Active” refers to the status of a candidate’s awarded credential or certification in which requirements have been successfully met.
(b) “Early Childhood Education” refers to coursework, certification, a credential or degree that specializes in children ages birth through eight (8).
(c) “Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC),” pursuant to Section 402.305(3)(b), F.S., is a department approved training program that consists of a minimum of 120 hours of early childhood instruction, 480 contact hours with children ages birth through eight (8) and at least two (2) methods of formal assessment that offers two (2) areas of certification; “Birth Through Five (formerly the department approved CDA Equivalency training programs)” and “School-Age (formerly the Florida School-Age Certification).” A list of approved and recognized FCCPC programs may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
(d) “National Early Childhood Credential (NECC)” pursuant to Section 402.305(3)(c), F.S., is an early childhood credential approved by the department and recognized by licensing authorities in at least five (5) states that incorporates 120 hours of early childhood instruction, 480 contact hours with children ages birth through eight (8) and includes at least two (2) methods of formal assessment. This includes the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential issued by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, DC. A list of approved and recognized NECC programs may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
(e) “Training Tran” is the electronic documentation of statutorily mandated training and staff credential qualifications for child care personnel. Training trans may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
(f) “Weighted score” means a scaled score, rather than a percentage score, based on the difficulty of the exam and determined by competency exam professionals in consultation with subject matter experts.
(2)(1) Personnel.
(a) Operator. The family day care home license shall be issued in the name of the operator who must be at least 18 years of age and a resident of the family home. In the event of rental or leased property, the operator shall be the individual who occupies the residence. The operator of a family day care home may not work outside of the home during the hours when the family day care home is operating. In the event of rental or leased property the operator shall be the individual who occupies the residence.
(b) Substitutes. There shall be a written plan to provide at least one (1) other competent adult, who must be at least 18 years of age, to be available as a to substitute for the operator on a temporary or emergency basis. This plan shall include the name, address and telephone number of the designated substitute. Substitutes may not work over 40 hours per month on average during a 12 twelve month period in any single home for which they have been identified as the designated substitute.
(c) No person shall be an operator, substitute or employee in a family day care home while using, or who is under the influence of narcotics, alcohol, or other drugs that, which impair an individual's their ability to provide supervision and safe child care, shall be an operator or substitute.
(3)(2) Staff Training.
(a) Prior to licensure and prior to caring for children, all family day care home operators and substitutes who work 40 hours or more per month on average during a 12 month period must: successfully complete the Department of Children and Family Services’ 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, as evidenced by passage of a competency based examination with a score of seventy (70) or better. Competency examinations will be offered by the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative. Prior to attending the training, Family Day Care Home operators have one opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from the Department of Children and Family Services’ 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training module by successfully completing competency examinations with a score of seventy (70) or better. All family day care home operators who have successfully completed the mandatory 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training prior to the availability of the competency examinations will not be required to complete the competency based testing.
1. Successfully complete the Department of Children and Family Services’ 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, as evidenced by successful completion of a competency based examination(s) offered by the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative with a weighted score of 70 or better. Family day care home operators who successfully completed the mandatory 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training prior to January 1, 2004 are not required to fulfill the competency examination requirement. Beginning July 1, 2006, the 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training will be replaced by five (5) individual training courses which total 30 clock-hours of training: Family Child Care Home Rules and Regulations; Health, Safety and Nutrition; Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect; Child Growth and Development; and Behavioral Observation and Screening.
a. Child care personnel have one (1) opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from one (1) or more of the department’s Introductory Child Care Training courses prior to attending training by successful completion of corresponding competency examinations with a weighted score of 70 or better.
b. Beginning July 1, 2006 the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative shall exempt individuals from the Health, Safety, and Nutrition; Child Growth and Development; and Behavioral Observation and Screening courses who meet one (1) of the following educational qualifications:
(I) Associate’s degree or higher with six (6) college credit hours in early childhood education/child growth and development or degree in elementary education with certification to teach any age birth through 6th grade; or
(II) An active National Early Childhood Credential (NECC) or an active Birth Through Five Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC).
c. The Family Child Care Home training completed successfully after July 1, 2004 will be documented on the child care training tran only. Training completed successfully prior to July 1, 2004 will be documented either on CF-FSP Form 5267, April 2006, Child Care Training Course Completion Certificate, which is incorporated by reference, or on the Department of Children and Family Services’ child care training transcript.
2. Complete a single course of training in early literacy and language development of children ages birth through five (5) that is a minimum of five (5) clock-hours or .5 CEUs. Proof of completion will be documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom tran, or diploma. In order to meet this requirement, individuals must complete one (1) of the following:
a. One (1) of the department’s online literacy courses available on the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare; or
b. One (1) of the department’s approved literacy training courses. A list of these courses may be obtained from the licensing authority or on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare (no additional courses will be approved by the department); or
c. One (1) college level early literacy course (for credit or non-credit) if taken within the last five (5) years.
3. Certificate(s) of course completion for infant and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedures and first aid training, which must be current and valid at all times. Certificates of course completion are valid based on the time frames established by each first aid and CPR training program, not to exceed three (3) years. Online CPR courses are not acceptable to meet this standard. CPR training must be completed by classroom instruction.
(b) In addition to the training above, all family day care homes licensed on or before December 31, 2004, shall complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age, as documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom transcript, or diploma; by June 30, 2005. Family Day Care Homes licensed on or after January 1, 2005, prior to licensure, must complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age. In order to meet this requirement, family day care home operators must select a training course from the Department of Children and Family Services' list of approved literacy training programs, which may be accessed by going to www.myflorida.com/childcare/training, or by contacting the licensing authority. Literacy training that was taken between July 1, 1999 and July 1, 2004 will be accepted by the licensing authority until January 1, 2005, if it meets all the required components stated above.
(c) Documentation. Training trans are updated upon the successful completion of training, as evidenced by the passage of a competency examination. The 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training successfully completed after July 1, 2004 will be documented on the child care training transcript only. Training successfully completed prior to July 1, 2004 may be documented either on CF-FSP Form 5267, May 2003, or the Department of Children and Family Services’ child care training transcript.
(d) Family day care home substitutes who work 40 hours or more a month on average during a 12 month period must successfully complete the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, prior to caring for children, as evidenced by passage of a competency based examination with a score of seventy (70) or better, documented on the Department of Children and Family Services’ CF-FSP Form 5267, May 2003, or the Department of Children and Family Services’ child care training transcript. All family day care home substitutes who have completed the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training prior to the availability of the competency examination will not be required to complete the competency based testing. Prior to attending the training, Family Day Care Home substitutes have one opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from the Department of Children and Family Services’ 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training by successfully completing competency examinations with a score of seventy (70) or better. Competency examinations will be offered by the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative. In addition to the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, all substitutes hired on or before December 31, 2004, who work 40 hours or more a month on average during a 12 month period, shall complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age, as documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom tran, or diploma; by June 30, 2005. Substitutes hired on or after January 1, 2005, prior to caring for children, must complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age. In order to meet this requirement, substitutes must select a course from the Department of Children and Family Services’ list of approved literacy training programs, which may be accessed by going to www.myflorida.com/childcare/training or by contacting the licensing authority. Literacy training that was taken between July 1, 1999 and July 1, 2004 will be accepted by the licensing authority until January 1, 2005, if it meets all the required components stated above.
(b)(e) Family day care home substitutes who work less than 40 hours a month on average during a 12 month period shall complete the Department of Children and Family Services’ three (3)-clock-hour Fundamentals of Child Care training prior to caring for children, as documented on the Department of Children and Family Services’ CF-FSP Form 5267, May 2003, and the Department of Children and Family Services’ child care training transcript. Family day care substitutes who have successfully completed the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training will not be required to complete the 3-clock-hour Fundamentals of Child Care training.
1.(f) The operator of the family day care home must sign a statement attesting to the number of hours that the substitute works in the operator's home. The statement must be placed in the substitute’s file.
2. Family day care substitutes who have successfully completed the 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training are not required to complete the three (3) clock-hour Fundamentals of Child Care training.
(g) Prior to licensure, family day care home operators must have a valid certificate of course completion for infant and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures and first aid training. The substitute, prior to caring for children in the family day care home, must have a valid and current certificate of course completion for infant and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures and first aid training. Certificates of course completion are valid based on the time frames established by each first aid and CPR training program, not to exceed three years. On-line CPR courses are not acceptable to meet this standard. CPR training must be done by classroom instruction.
(4)(3) Annual In-Service Training.
(a) All family day care home operators, must complete a minimum of 10 clock-hours or (1) CEU of in-service training or 1 CEU, annually during the operator's 12 month licensing period state's fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30.
(b) The annual 10 clock-hours or one (1) CEU of in-service training concentrating on children ages birth through 12 years or 1 CEU, must be completed in one (1) or more of the following areas (college level courses will be accepted):
1. through 2. No change.
3. First Aid (this training may only be taken to meet the in-service requirement once every three (3) years);
4. through 22. No change.
(c) Documentation of the in-service training requirement must be recorded on CF-FSP Form 5268A, April Feb. 200604, Child Care In-Service Training Record, which is incorporated herein by reference, and maintained at the family day care home. CF-FSP Form 5268A may be obtained from the licensing authority or on by going to the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare/training. A new in-service training record is required each licensing fiscal year. In addition to maintaining the training record for the current fiscal year, Tthe in-service training records for the previous two (2) licensing fiscal years must also be maintained at the family day care home for review by the licensing authority College level courses that cover the topics above may also be counted to meet the annual in-service training requirement.
(5)(4) Supervision.
(a) At all times, which includes when the children are napping or sleeping, the operator shall remain responsible for the supervision of the children in care and capable of responding to the emergencies and the needs of the children. While children are napping or sleeping in bedrooms, the bedroom doors must remain open. During the daytime hours of operation, children shall have adult supervision, which means watching and directing children’s activities, both indoors and outdoors, and responding to each child’s needs.
(b) A child who has been placed in an isolation area due to illness as stated in paragraph 65C-20.010(4)(b), F.A.C., must be within sight and hearing of the operator.
(c) Children must be attended at all times when being diapered or when changing clothes.
Specific Authority 402.313 FS. Law Implemented 402.313 FS. History–New 7-2-98, Amended 5-21-00, 7-13-03, 9-12-04,________.
65C-20.010 Health Related Requirements.
(1) General Requirements.
(a) Animals, pets or fowl must have current immunizations, if immunizations are available for the type of animal, pet or fowl;, and be free from of disease. Custodial pParents or legal guardian must be informed in writing of all animals on the premises of the home. Such information may be provided by way of a parent flier, a notification statement, or a statement included in the child's enrollment form.
(b) All areas and surfaces accessible to children shall be free from of toxic substances and hazardous materials. All potentially harmful items including cleaning supplies, flammable products, poisonous, and toxic, and hazardous materials must be labeled. These items, as well as knives, and sharp tools and other potentially dangerous hazards, shall be stored separately and locked or out of a child's reach in locations inaccessible to the children in care.
(c) All family day care home operators shall inform custodial parents or legal guardian in writing if someone living in the home smokes. Pursuant to Chapter 386, Florida. Statutes., while children are in care, smoking is prohibited within the family day care home, on all outdoor play areas and in vehicles when transporting children.
(d) At all times when children are in care, all firearms and weapons, as defined in Section Chapter 790.001, F.S., shall be stored in a location inaccessible to children and in accordance with Section 790.174, F.S.
(e) Play areas shall be clean, and free from of litter, nails, glass and other hazards.
(f) Family day care homes caring only for infants under 12 months of age, shall not be required to have an outdoor play area; however, infants in care shall be provided opportunities for outdoor time each day that weather permits. For all other family day care homes, including those providing evening care, the outdoor space shall be fenced, a minimum of four (4) feet in height, if the family day care home property borders any of the following:
1. No change.
2. Road or street open to travel by the public, divided by a median;
3. Road or street open to travel by the public where the posted or unposted speed limit is equal to or greater than 25 miles per hour; by municipal or county ordinance, pursuant to Section s. 316.189, F.S.
4. No change.
(g) All in-ground swimming pools and above-ground swimming pools, more than one (1) foot deep, shall have either a fence or barrier on all four (4) sides, at a minimum of four (4) feet in height, separating the home from the swimming pool;, or a pool alarm that is operable at all times when children are in care. The fence or barrier shall may not have any gaps or openings that would we allow a young child to crawl under, squeeze through, or climb over the barrier. All spas and hot tubs must meet the same barrier requirements for in-ground and above-ground swimming pools, or instead, spas and hot tubs may be covered with a safety cover, as defined in Section 515.25(1), F.S., that complies with ASTM F1346-91 (Standard Performance Specification for Safety Covers and Labeling Requirements for All Covers for Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, and Spas) at all times when children are in care. The exterior wall of the home with an, if it has ingress and egress, does not constitute a fence or barrier. All doors or gates in the fence or barrier shall be locked at all times when children are in care and when the pool is not being used by the children in care. In addition to the fence, barrier or pool alarm, the family day care home operator shall ensure that all exterior doors leading to the pool, spa, or hot tub area remain locked at all times while children are in care. Barriers may be temporary in nature, but must be sturdy and meet all the above requirements and be in place during all times when children are in care. The wall of an above-ground swimming pool may be used as its barrier; however, such structure must be at least four (4) feet in height. In addition, any ladder or steps that are the means of access to an above-ground pool must be removed at all times while children are in care and when the pool is not being used by the children in care.
(h)(g) If a family day care home uses a swimming pool, it shall be maintained by using chlorine or other suitable chemicals. If the family day care home uses a swimming pool that, which exceeds three (3) feet in depth at the family day care home site, one (1) person who has completed a basic water safety course such as one offered by the American Red Cross, YMCA or other organization, must be present when children have access to the swimming area. If the family day care home uses swimming pools not at the site of the family day care home site, or takes the children to water areas such as a beach or lake for swimming activities, the family day care home operator must provide one (1) person with a certified lifeguard certificate or equivalent, who must be present when children are in the swimming area, unless a certified lifeguard is on duty.
(i)(h) A family day care home must include a designated area where each child can sit quietly or lie down to rest or nap.
(j)(i) Each child in care must be provided safe and sanitary bedding to be used when napping. Bedding means a cot, bed, crib, mattress, playpen or floor mat. Air mattresses and foam mattresses may not be used for napping. Mats must be at least one (1) inch thick and covered with an impermeable surface.
(k)(j) Children one (1) year of age or older may nap or sleep on beds used by the family provided individual linens are provided for each child. Each child shall have a separate bed, cot, crib, playpen, mattress or floor mat, except that two (2) sibling preschool children may share a double bed. Sleeping refers to the normal night time sleep cycle and When children remain overnight, playpens, air mattresses, foam mattresses, and mats may not be used for care when children are sleeping are not acceptable and. Tthe operator must prepare a written plan outlining the sleeping arrangements of the children in care to be provided to the licensing counselor upon request. If the children are sleeping overnight, the operator must ensure accepted bedtime routines, such as brushing teeth and face and hand washing. Toothbrushes, towels and wash cloths may not be shared.
(l)(k) Children up to one (1) year of age must be in their own crib, portacrib or playpen with sides. When napping or sleeping, young infants that are not capable of rolling over on their own shall be positioned on their back and on a firm surface to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), unless an alternative position is authorized in writing by a physician. The documentation shall be maintained in the child’s record.
(m)(l) A minimum distance of eighteen(18) inches must be maintained between individual napping spaces. Napping spaces shall not be designated in kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, or garages. If separate rooms are used for napping, the doors to each room shall remain open to allow the operator to respond to emergencies and needs of the children.
(n)(m) Potable drinking water shall be available to children of all ages at all times. If disposable cups are used, they must be discarded after each use.
(o) Single service paper or plastic plates, utensils, and cups shall not be reused. Plates, utensils, cups, bottles and sippy cups provided by the family day care home that are not disposable shall be washed, rinsed and sanitized between uses. All bottles and sippy cups brought from home shall be individually labeled with the child's first and last name and returned to the custodial parent or legal guardian daily.
(p)(n) Rodents and vermin shall be exterminated. Pest control shall not take place while rooms are occupied by children.
(q)(o) All parts of the home, both indoors and outdoors;, including the furnishings, equipment, and plumbing shall be kept clean and sanitary, free from of hazards, in an orderly condition and in good repair at all times. The family day care home shall have an operable smoke detector and fire extinguisher with a current certificate, at least one (1) operable corded telephone, and lighting that allows for safe movement and egress for children in care. At all times and appropriate for the activity, lighting in family day care homes must be sufficient enough to allow the operator to visually observe and supervise children in care. The home must have proper ventilation, and the temperature must be maintained between 65 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
(r)(p) If the operator chooses to supply food, the operator shall provide nutritious meals and snacks of a quantity and quality to meet the daily nutritional needs of the children. The USDA My Food Guide Pyramid for Young Children, April March 2005 1999, which is incorporated by reference, shall be used to determine what food groups to serve at each meal or snack and the serving size of the selected foods for children one year of ages two (2) and older. The fats and sweets categoriesy “oils” and “discretionary calories” may within the USDA Food Guide Pyramid for Young Children cannot be considered counted as a food groups. Copies of the USDA My Food Guide Pyramid for Young Children may be obtained from the licensing authority, the local county health department or from the USDA website at www.mypyramid.gov. district child care licensing office or local licensing agency. Using the USDA My Food Guide Pyramid for Young Children; breakfast shall consist of at least three (3) different food groups; lunch and dinner shall consist of at least four (4) different food groups and snacks shall consist of at least two (2) different food groups. If a special diet is required for a child by a physician, a copy of the physician’s order, a copy of the diet and a sample meal plan for the special diet appropriate documentation shall be maintained in the child’s file for as long as the child is in care to include the physician’s order, a copy of a diet and sample meal plan for the special diet. If the custodial parent or legal guardian notifies the family day care home of any known food allergies, written documentation must be maintained in the child’s file.
(2) Hygiene and Sanitation.
(a) Operators, substitutes, and children shall wash their hands with soap and running water, drying thoroughly, and following personal hygiene procedures for themselves, or while when assisting others, and immediately after outdoor play.
(b) Soiled items shall immediately be placed in plastic lined, securely covered containers that which are not accessible to children. The container shall be emptied, cleaned and disinfected daily. Children’s wet or soiled clothing and crib sheets shall be changed promptly.
(c) No change.
(d) Each child shall have his own individually labeled towel and wash cloth. If disposable towels are used, they shall be discarded after each use.
(e) When children in diapers are in care, there shall be a diaper changing area with an impermeable surface that which is cleaned with a sanitizing solution after each use. The diaper changing area shall not be located separate from the food preparation, service and feeding area. In addition, items unrelated to diaper changing shall not be stored in the diaper changing area not shall they be placed on the diaper changing table in or near the food service area. Children must be attended at all times when being diapered or when changing clothes.
(3) First Aid Kit and Emergency Procedures.
(a) At least one (1) first aid kit containing materials to administer first aid must be maintained on the premises of the family day care home at all times and on activities away from the home. The first aid kit shall be accessible to the operator and kept out of the reach of children. The kit must be clearly labeled “First Aid” and must, at a minimum, include:
1. through 11. No change.
(b) Emergency Procedures and Notification.
1. Emergency telephone numbers, including ambulance, fire, police, poison control center, Florida Abuse Hotline, the county public health unit;, and the address of and directions to the home, including major intersections and local landmarks, must be posted on or near all telephones and shall be used to protect the health, safety and well-being of any child in care. To meet the immediate needs of the child, family day care home operators shall call 911 or other emergency numbers in the event of an emergency.
2. Custodial parents or legal guardian’s shall be notified immediately in the event of any serious illness, accident, injury or emergency to their child and their specific instructions regarding action to be taken under such circumstances shall be obtained and followed. If the custodial parent or legal guardian cannot be reached, the family day care home operator will contact those persons designated by the custodial parent or legal guardian to be contacted under these circumstances, and shall follow the written instructions provided by the custodial parent or legal guardian.
3. All accidents, incidents, and observed health related signs and symptoms which occur at a family day care home must be documented on the day they occur and shared with the custodial parent or legal guardian on the day they occur. Documentation shall include the name of the affected party, date and time of occurrence, description of occurrence, actions taken, and signature of operator and custodial parent or legal guardian. This documentation must be shared with the custodial parent or legal guardian on the date of occurrence. Records of accidents, incidents, and observed health related signs and symptoms must be maintained for one (1) year.
4. Fire drills shall be conducted monthly and shall be conducted at various times when children are in care. A written record shall be maintained showing the date, time, number of children in attendance and time taken to evacuate the home. This record shall be maintained for six (6) months.
5. After a fire or natural disaster, the operator must notify the licensing agency, within 24 hours, as to their status of operation in order for the department or local licensing agency to ensure health standards are met for continued operation as a family day care home.
(4) Communicable Disease Control.
(a) Children in care shall be observed on a daily basis for signs of communicable disease. Signs and symptoms of a suspected communicable disease include the following:
1. Severe coughing, causing the child to become red or blue in the face or to make a whooping sound;
2. Difficult or rapid breathing;
3. Stiff neck;
4. Diarrhea (more than one abnormally loose stool within a 24 hour period);
5. Temperature of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when in conjunction with any other signs of illness;
6. Conjunctivitis (pink eye);
7. Exposed, open skin lesions;
8. Unusually dark urine and/or gray or white stool;
9. Yellowish skin or eyes; or
10. Any other unusual sign or symptom of illness.
(b) The family day care home shall have an designated isolation area for a child who becomes ill. The child’s condition shall be closely observed. Any child who is suspected of having a communicable disease or who has a fever, of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, in conjunction with any of the other signs of or develops other signs and symptoms listed in paragraph 65C-20.010(4)(a), F.A.C., which include any of the following: diarrhea, rash, pink eye, vomiting, or skin infection, shall be placed in the isolation area. Linens and disposables shall be changed after each use. The condition shall be reported to the custodial parent or legal guardian and the child shall be removed from the family day care home. Such children shall not return to the home without medical authorization, or until the signs and symptoms of the disease are no longer present.
(c) A childs identified as having who head lice shall will not be permitted to return until treatment has occurred. Verification of treatment may include a product box, box top, empty bottle, or signed statement by a custodial parent or legal guardian, that treatment has occurred.
(d) An operator or household member who develops signs and symptoms of a communicable disease or who has a which include any of the following: fever (of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), in conjunction with any of the other following signs and symptoms listed in paragraph 65C-20.010(4)(a), F.A.C., diarrhea, rash, pink eye, or skin infection shall leave the areas of the home occupied by the children and shall not return without medical authorization, or until the signs and symptoms are no longer present. If it is the operator who is ill, the substitute must assume the operator’s responsibilities.
(5) Medication. Family day care homes are not required to give medication;, however, if they choose to do so, the following shall apply:
(a) The family day care home must have written authorization from the custodial parent or legal guardian to dispense preion and non-preion medications. This authorization must be dated and signed by the custodial parent or legal guardian and contain the child’s name; the name of the medication to be dispensed; and date, time and amount of dosage to be given. This record shall be initialed or signed by the family day care home personnel who gave the medication.
(b) Any known allergies to medication or special restrictions must also be documented, maintained in the child’s file, and posted with stored medication.
(c)(a) Prescription and non-prescription medication brought to the family day care home by the custodial parent or legal guardian must be in the original container. Prescription medication must have a the label stating the name of the physician, child’s name, name of the medication, and medication directions. All prescription and non-prescription medication shall be dispensed according to written directions on the prescription label or printed manufacturer’s label. For the purposes of dispensing non-prescription medication that is not brought in by the parent, in the event of an emergency, non-prescription medication can only be dispensed if the home has written authorization from the parent or legal guardian to do so. Any medication dispensed under these conditions must be documented in the child’s file and the parent or legal guardian must be notified on the day of occurrence. If the parent or legal guardian notifies the family day care home of any known allergies to medication, written documentation must be maintained in the child’s file.
(d) In the event of an emergency, non-prescription medication that is not brought in by the custodial parent or legal guardian can only be dispensed if the family day care home has written authorization from the custodial parent or legal guardian to do so.
(e) Any medication dispensed under these conditions must be documented in the child’s file and the custodial parent or legal guardian must be notified on the day of occurrence.
(f) The family day care home must maintain a record for each child receiving medications that documents the full name of the child, the name of medication, the date and time the medication was dispensed, the amount and dosage, and the name of the person who dispensed the medication. The record shall be maintained for a minimum of four (4) months after the last day the child received the dosage. All medicine must have child resistant caps and shall be stored separately and locked or out of a child's reach.
(g) Medication which has expired or is no longer being administered shall be returned to the custodial parent or legal guardian or discarded if the child is no longer enrolled in care at the family day care home.
(b) All medicines shall be kept out of the reach of children and must have child resistant caps.
(c) Medication which has expired or is no longer being administered shall be returned to the custodial parent or legal guardian.
(d) A written record documenting the child’s name, the name of the medication, date, time and amount of dosage to be given, and the signature of the custodial parent or legal guardian shall be maintained by the family child care provider. This record shall be initialed or signed by the adult who gave the medication.
(e) This record shall be maintained for six months.
Specific Authority 402.313 FS. Law Implemented 402.313 FS. History–New 7-2-98, Amended 1-4-01, 7-13-03, 9-12-04, _________.
65C-20.011 Health Records.
(1) Children's Health Requirements Immunizations. The family day care home provider is responsible for obtaining, from the parent or legal guardian, a current and a completed DH Form 680, Florida Certification of Immunization, Part A-1, B, and or C, (July), or, DH Form 681, Religious Exemption from Immunization (May 1999), for each child in care, within 30 days of enrollment, and maintaining a current copy at the family day care home, which are incorporated by reference in subsection 64D-3.011(9), F.A.C. DH Forms 680 and 681 can be obtained from the local county health department. The DH Form 680, Florida Certification of Immunization Parts A-1, Certification of Immunization for K-12 Excluding 7th Grade Requirements or Part B, Temporary Medical Exemption, shall be signed by a physician or authorized personnel licensed under the provisions of Chapter 458, 459, or 460, Florida Statutes and shall document vaccination for the prevention of diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, rubeola, rubella, mumps, Haemophilus influenza type B (HIB), and effective July 1, 2001, completion of varicella vaccination. The DH Form 680, Florida Certification of Immunization Part C, Permanent Medical Exemptions, shall be dated and signed by a physician licensed under the provisions of Chapter 458 or 459, Florida Statutes.
(a) The family day care home provider is responsible for obtaining, for each child in care, a current, complete and properly executed Florida Certification of Immunization form, Parts A-1, B, and or C, or the Religious Exemption from Immunization form, as referenced in Rule 64D-3.011, F.A.C., from the custodial parent or legal guardian. Immunizations received out-of-state are acceptable; however, immunizations must be documented on the Florida Certification of Immunization form and must be signed by a physician practicing in the State of Florida. Specific immunization requirements are included and detailed in the most current edition of the “Immunization Guidelines – Florida Schools, Child Care Facilities and Family Day Care Homes” as referenced in Rule 64D-3.011, F.A.C.
(b) The family day care home provider is responsible for obtaining, for each child in care, a current, complete and properly executed Student Health Examination form, as referenced in Rule 6A-6.024, F.A.C. or a signed statement by an authorized professional that indicates the results of the components of the form are included in the health examination from the custodial parent or legal guardian, within 30 days of enrollment. The Student Health Examination shall be completed by a person given statutory authority to perform health examinations.
(c) The Student Health Examination form or signed statement is valid for two (2) years from the date the physical was performed and must be on file as long as the child is in care.
(d) School-aged children attending public or nonpublic schools are not required to have student health examination and immunization records on file at the family day care home as such records are on file at the school where the child is enrolled.
(e) If the custodial parents or legal guardians need assistance concerning these requirements, the family day care home shall refer them to the Department of Health or to the child's physician.
(f) Medical records in this section are the property of the custodial parent or legal guardian and must be returned when the child is no longer in care. The medical records are transferable if the child is placed in a different family day care home.
(2) Children’s Student Health Examination.
(a) The family day care home provider is responsible for obtaining from the parent or legal guardian, a current and completed DH Form 3040, (June 02), Student Health Examination, for each child in care, within 30 days of enrollment, and maintaining a current copy at the family day care home. DH Form 3040, which is incorporated by reference, can be obtained from the local county health department. The student health examination shall be completed by a person given statutory authority to perform health examinations. Certification that a health examination has been completed may be documented on the State of Florida, Department of Health, DH Form 3040, June 02, OR a signed statement by an authorized professional that indicates the results of the components included in the health examination.
(b) This Student Health Examination is valid for two (2) years from the date the physical was performed.
(3) Immunization and Health Records.
(a) Copies of required records are acceptable for documentation. Original documents are the property of the party providing the information.
(b) School-age children in kindergarten through grade 5, attending public or nonpublic schools are not required to have student health examination (DH Form 3040) and immunization records (DH 680 or 681) on file at the family day care home as such records are on file at the school where the child is enrolled.
(2)(4) Enrollment and Medical Authorization.
(a) The operator shall obtain enrollment information from the child’s custodial parent or legal guardian, prior to accepting the child into care. This information shall be documented on CF-FSP Form 5219, June 2005 Dec. 02, Child Care Application for Enrollment, which is incorporated by reference, or an equivalent that contains all the information required by the department’s form. CF-FSP Form 5219 may can be obtained from the local Department of Children and Family Services district service center or the local licensing agency, and is incorporated by reference, or an equivalent that contains all the information required by the department’s form.
(b) Enrollment information shall be kept current and on file for each child in care.
(c) There shall be signed statements from the custodial parents or legal guardian that the family day care home has provided them with the following information:
1. The Department of Children and Family Services family day care home brochure, CF/PI 175-28, July 2005, Selecting A Family Day Care Home Provider, which is incorporated by reference. This brochure may be obtained from the licensing authority or on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
2. Local licensing agencies may use an equivalent brochure approved by the Department of Children and Family Services, containing all the information required by the department.
Specific Authority 402.313 FS. Law Implemented 402.313 FS. History–New 7-2-98, Amended 5-21-00, 7-13-03, 9-12-04, __________.
65C-20.012 Enforcement.
(1) No change.
(2) The operation of a family day care home is prohibited unless registered, or licensed, as required by county ordinance or resolution. The department or local licensing agency shall have the authority to seek an injunction in the circuit court where the home is located to stop the continued operation of a family day care home that which is not licensed or registered. For licensed family day care homes, the department or local licensing agency shall also have the authority to seek an injunction in the circuit court where the home is located to stop the continued operation if the family day care home is in violation of the minimum standards. Pursuant to Section 120.60(6), F.S., an emergency suspension order may also be used to stop the continued operation if the family day care home poses immediate serious danger to the public health, safety, or welfare of the children who are enrolled.
(3) The family day care operator must allow access to the entire premises of the family day care home to inspect for compliance with family day care home minimum standards. Access to the family day care home also includes access by the parent, legal guardian, and/or custodian, to their child(ren) while in care.
(4) Child Safety. Pursuant to Section 402.301, F.S., acts or omissions that meet the definition of child abuse or neglect constitute a violation of the standards in Section 402.301-.309, F.S.
Specific Authority 402.313 FS. Law Implemented 402.313, 402.319(5) FS. History–New 7-2-98, Amended 7-13-03, 9-12-04,__________.
65C-20.013 Large Family Child Care Homes (LFCCH).
(1) Large Family Child Care Homes. A Large Family Child Care Home is defined by Section 402.3131, F.S., and for the purpose of this rule, as a home which must have been licensed in the State of Florida as and met all the requirements of a family day care home for two (2) consecutive years. Large family child care homes must meet and comply with all standards of this rule at all times unless there are insufficient numbers of children in care to meet the definition of a large family child care home, in which case an additional employee is not required. Large family child care homes shall meet all of the requirements in Rules 65C-20.008-65C-20.012, F.A.C., in addition to the requirements listed below.
(2) Definitions.:
(a) “Full Time Employee” means one (1) additional staff person at least 18 years of age, who is on the premises of a home operating as a large family child care home.
(b) “Hours of Operation” means the hours of the day or night that a large family child care home has enough children in care to meet the definition of a large family child care home.
(c) “Large Family Child Care Home,” is defined by s. 402.3131, F.S., and for the purpose of this rule means a home which must have been licensed in the State of Florida as a family day care home for two consecutive years, with an operator who has had a child development associate credential or its equivalent for 1 year, and meet all the requirements of this rule. Large family child care homes must meet and comply with all standards of this rule at all times unless there are insufficient numbers of children in care to meet the definition of a large family child care home, in which case an additional employee is not required.
(c)(d) “Operator” means the occupant and licensee of the large family child care home who is at least 21 years of age and responsible for the overall operation of the home.
(d)(e) “Substitute” means a competent adult, at least 18 years of age, who is available to substitute for the operator or employee on a temporary or emergency basis.
(3) Application and License.
(a) Application for a license or for renewal of a license to operate a large family child care home must shall be made on CF-FSP Form 5238, April 2006 Feb. 2004, Application for a License to Operate a Large Family Child Care Home, which is incorporated herein by reference. CF-FSP Form 5238 may and can be obtained from the licensing authority or on at the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare local district service center or the local licensing agency. A license to operate a Large Family Child Care Home may be used to operate a Family Day Care Home, when the number of children in care meets the definition of a Family Day Care Home. A license to operate a Family Day Care Home cannot be used to operate a Large Family Child Care Home.
(b) The large family child care home license shall be issued in the name of the operator, who must be at least 21 years of age and the resident of the large family child care home. In the event of rental or leased property, the operator shall be the individual who occupies the residence.
(c)(b) A copy of the annual license shall be posted in a conspicuous location within the large family child care home.
(4) LFCCH Personnel.:
(a) The large family child care home license shall be issued in the name of the operator who must be at least 21 years of age and the occupant of the large family child care home. In the event of rental or leased property the operator shall be the individual who occupies the residence.
(a)(b) The operator of the large family child care home may not work outside of the home during hours when the large family child care home is in operationg.
(b)(c) No person shall be an operator, substitute, or employee while using, or who is under the influence of, narcotics, alcohol, or other drugs that, which impair an individual’s their ability to provide supervision and safe child care, shall be an operator, substitute, or employee.
(c) Large family child care homes must have one (1) person on the premises during all hours of operation who has a valid and current certificate(s) of course completion for infant and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedures and first aid training.
(5) LFCCH Staff Training.:
(a) Definitions.
1. “Active” refers to the status of a candidate’s awarded credential or certification in which requirements have been successfully met.
2. “Begin training for child care personnel” refers to a candidate’s commencement of at least one (1) of the child care training courses listed in Section 402.305(2)(d), F.S. This may be accomplished by classroom attendance, acquiring an educational exemption from training, beginning a department approved online child care training course, or by completion of a department approved competency examination within the first 90 days of employment in the child care industry. The large family child care home is responsible for obtaining documentation from child care personnel.
3. “Early Childhood Education” refers to coursework, certification, a credential or degree that specializes in children ages birth through eight (8).
4. “Expired” refers to the status of a candidate’s awarded credential or certification that is not eligible for renewal.
5. “Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC),” pursuant to Section 402.305(3)(b), F.S., is a department approved training program that consists of a minimum of 120 hours of early childhood instruction, 480 contact hours with children ages birth through eight (8) and at least two (2) methods of formal assessment that offers two (2) areas of certification; “Birth Through Five (formerly the department approved CDA Equivalency training programs)” and “School-Age (formerly the Florida School-Age Certification).” A list of approved and recognized FCCPC programs may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
6. “Florida Department of Education Child Care Apprenticeship Certificate (CCAC)” is a department approved child care credential that consists of a minimum of 120 hours of early childhood instruction and 480 contact hours with children ages birth through eight (8) and meets or exceeds the requirements outlined in Section 402.305(3)(c), F.S. A list of approved and recognized DOE programs may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
7. “Florida Department of Education Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC)” is a department approved child care credential that consists of a minimum of 120 hours of early childhood instruction and 480 contact hours with children ages birth through eight (8) and meets or exceeds the requirements outlined in Section 402.305(3)(c), F.S. A list of approved and recognized DOE programs may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at ww.myflorida.com/childcare.
8. “Florida Department of Education School-Age Professional Certificate (SAPC)” is a department approved child care credential that consists of a minimum of 120 hours of early childhood instruction and 480 contact hours with school-age children and meets or exceeds the requirements outlined in Section 402.305(3)(c), F.S. A list of approved and recognized DOE programs may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
9. “Inactive” refers to the status of a candidate’s awarded credential or certification that remains eligible for renewal.
10. “National Early Childhood Credential (NECC)” pursuant to Section 402.305(3)(c), F.S., is an early childhood credential approved by the department and recognized by licensing authorities in at least five (5) states that incorporates 120 hours of early childhood instruction, 480 contact hours with children ages birth through eight (8) and includes at least two (2) methods of formal assessment. This includes the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential issued by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, DC. A list of approved and recognized NECC programs may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
11. "Training Tran” is the electronic documentation of statutorily mandated training and staff credential qualifications for child care personnel. Training trans may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
12. "Weighted score" means a scaled score, rather than a percentage score, based on the difficulty of the exam and determined by competency exam professionals in consultation with subject matter experts.
(b)(a) Large Family Child Care Home Operators. In addition to the successful completion of the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training requirements identified in paragraph 65C-20.009(2)(b), F.A.C., large family child care home operators must:
1. Possess one (1) of the following credentials for a minimum of one (1) year:
a. An active National Early Childhood Credential (NECC); an active Birth Through Five or School-Age Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) (formerly known as the Child Development Associate Equivalency); an active Florida Department of Education Child Care Apprenticeship Certificate (CCAC), Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC) or School-Age Professional Certificate (SAPC); or meet the formal educational qualification requirement outlined on CF-FSP Form 5211, April 2006, Staff Credential Application, which is incorporated by reference. An Employment History Recognition Exemption will not be accepted to meet the minimum staff credential requirements for Large Family Child Care Home.
b. An Employment History Recognition Exemption and a School-Age FCCPC will not be accepted to meet the minimum staff credential requirements for Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK).
c. Credential Renewal Requirements.
(I) A National Early Childhood Credential must be renewed through the agency that awarded the credential. Prior to December 31, 2008, a National Early Childhood Credential may comply with the Birth Through Five Florida Child Care Professional Credential renewal process referenced in sub-subparagraph 65C-20.013(5)(b)1.b.2., F.A.C., if the credential was issued prior to December 31, 2003.
(II) To maintain an active Birth Through Five FCCPC, every five (5) years a candidate must renew their Birth Through Five FCCPC by completing CF-FSP Form 5273, April 2006, Birth Through Five Florida Child Care Professional Credential Renewal Application, which is incorporated by reference. CF-FSP Form 5273 may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Service’s website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
(A) A Birth Through Five FCCPC Renewal will be documented on CF-FSP Form 5270. Renewal applications will be submitted by the candidate no earlier than one (1) year prior to the end of the active date of the Birth Through Five FCCPC.
(B) Individuals with a Birth Through Five FCCPC issued before December 31, 2003 will renew the credential by submitting a completed CF-FSP 5273 with the required documentation by December 31, 2008. A Birth Through Five FCCPC issued after December 31, 2003 will have a renewal date of five (5) years from the date of issuance.
(C) An individual with an inactive Birth Through Five FCCPC will submit a renewal application for a period of up to three (3) years after the end of the Birth Through Five FCCPC active period. The application will be reviewed and, if approved, a certificate will be issued with a renewal date of five (5) years from the date the completed CF-FSP Form 5273 is processed.
(D) For purposes of participation in the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) Program, an individual must ensure an active credential by July 1, 2006.
(III) To maintain an active School-Age FCCPC, every five (5) years a candidate must renew their School-Age FCCPC by completing CF-FSP Form 5307, April 2006, the School-Age Florida Child Care Professional Credential Renewal Application, which is incorporated by reference. CF-FSP Form 5307 may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Service’s website at www.myflorida.com/childcare. A School-Age FCCPC will not be accepted to meet the minimum staff credential requirements for Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK).
(A) A School-Age FCCPC renewal will be documented on CF-FSP Form 5270. Renewal applications shall be submitted no earlier than one (1) year prior to the end of the active date of the School-Age FCCPC.
(B) An individual with an inactive School-Age FCCPC shall submit a renewal application for the period of up to three (3) years from the end of the School-Age FCCPC active period. The application will be reviewed and, if approved, a certificate will be issued with a renewal date of five (5) years from the date the completed CF-FSP Form 5270 is processed.
(IV) To maintain an active Florida Department of Education Child Care Apprenticeship Certificate (CCAC) or Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC), every five (5) years a candidate must renew their CCAC or ECPC by completing CF-FSP Form 5309, April 2006, Florida Department of Education Child Care Apprenticeship Certificate (CCAC) and Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC) Renewal Application, which is incorporated by reference. To maintain an active Florida Department of Education School-Age Professional Certificate (SAPC), every five (5) years a candidate must renew their SAPC by completing CF-FSP Form 5308, April 2006, Florida Department of Education School-Age Professional Certificate (SAPC) Renewal Application, which is incorporated by reference. CF-FSP Forms 5308 and 5309 may be obtained on the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare.
(A) A Florida Department of Education CCAC, ECPC or SAPC renewal will be documented on CF-FSP Form 5310, April 2006, Certificate for Florida Department of Education Child Care Apprenticeship Certificate (CCAC)/Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC)/School-Age Professional Certificate (SAPC) Program Renewal, which is incorporated by reference. CF-FSP Forms 5308 and 5309, as applicable, for renewal will be submitted by the candidate no earlier than one (1) year prior to the end of the active period of the Florida Department of Education CCAC, ECPC, or SAPC.
(B) An individual with an inactive Florida Department of Education CCAC, ECPC, or SAPC may submit CF-FSP Form 5308 or 5309 for a period of up to three (3) years from the end of the Florida Department of Education CCAC, ECPC, or SAPC active period. CF-FSP Form 5308 or 5309, as applicable, will be reviewed and, if approved, a CF-FSP Form 5310 will be issued with a renewal date of five (5) years from the date the completed CF-FSP Form 5308 or 5309 is processed.
(IV) A staff credential awarded for formal educational qualifications does not need to be renewed to remain active.
2. Within six (6) months of licensure, successfully complete 10 clock-hours of specialized training from the Department of Children and Family Services’ Part II specialized training courses as evidenced by successful completion of a competency examination with a weighted score of 70 or better. These courses include:
a. Infant and Toddler Appropriate Practices (10 hours),
b. Preschool Appropriate Practices (10 hours),
c. School-Age Appropriate Practices (10 hours),
d. Special Needs Appropriate Practices (10 hours),
e. Basic Guidance and Discipline (5 hours online),
f. Computer Technology for Child Care Professionals (5 hours online),
g. Early Literacy for Children Ages Birth Through Three (5 hours online),
h. Early Childhood Computer Learning Centers (5 hours online), or
i. Emergent Literacy for Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) Instructors (5 hours online).
j. Child care personnel have one (1) opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from one (1) or more of the department’s Introductory Child Care Training courses prior to attending training by successful completion of corresponding competency examinations with a weighted score of 70 or better. Exemption examinations are not available for the department’s online Part II specialized training courses.
k. The Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative shall exempt individuals with a:
(I) B.A., B.S., or advanced degree in Early Childhood Education or Preschool Education from the Infant and Toddler Appropriate Practices course and Preschool Appropriate Practices course.
(II) B.A., B.S., or advanced degree in Elementary Education from the School-Age Appropriate Practices course.
(III) B.A., B.S., or advanced degree in Exceptional Student Education from the Special Needs Appropriate Practices course.
(c) Substitutes. Prior to taking care of children, substitutes for the operator of large family child care home and substitutes for the large family child care home employee who work 40 hours or more per month on average during a 12 month period shall be at least 18 years of age and must:
1. Successfully complete the Department of Children and Family Services’ 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, as evidenced by successful completion of a competency based examination(s) offered by the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative with a weighted score of 70 or better. Individuals who have successfully completed the mandatory 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training prior to January 1, 2004 are not required to fulfill the competency examination requirement. Beginning July 1, 2006, the 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training will be replaced by five (5) individual training courses which total 30 clock-hours of training: Family Child Care Home Rules and Regulations; Health, Safety and Nutrition; Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect; Child Growth and Development; and Behavioral Observation and Screening. Completion of the 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training shall be documented on the Department of Children and Family Services CF-FSP Form 5267 or the Department of Children and Family Services child care training tran.
a. Child care personnel have one (1) opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from one (1) or more of the department’s Introductory Child Care Training courses prior to attending training by successful completion of corresponding competency examinations with a weighted score of 70 or better.
b. Beginning July 1, 2006 the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative shall exempt individuals from the Health, Safety, and Nutrition; Child Growth and Development; and Behavioral Observation and Screening courses who meet one (1) of the following educational qualifications:
(I) Associate’s degree or higher with six (6) college credit hours in early childhood education/child growth and development or degree in elementary education with certification to teach any age birth through 6th grade; or
(II) An active National Early Childhood or an active Birth Through Five Florida Child Care Professional Credential.
2. Complete a single course of training in early literacy and language development of children ages birth through five (5) that is a minimum of five (5) clock-hours or .5 CEUs. Proof of completion will be documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom transcript, or diploma. In order to meet this requirement, substitutes for the operator of a large family child care home and substitutes for the large family child care home employee who work 40 hours or more per month on average during a 12 month period must complete one (1) of the following:
a. One (1) of the department’s online literacy courses available on the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare; or
b. One (1) of the department’s approved literacy training courses. A list of these courses may be obtained from the licensing authority on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare (no additional courses will be approved by the department); or
c. One (1) college level early literacy course (for credit or non-credit) if taken within the last five (5) years.
(d) Employees in a large family child care home. Employees in a large family child care home shall be at least 18 years of age and must:
1. Within 90 days of employment in the child care industry, begin the Department of Children and Family Services’ 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training. The training shall be successfully completed within 12 months from the date on which the training began, as evidenced by the successful completion of a competency examination offered by the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative with a weighted score of 70 or better, and may not exceed 15 months from the date of employment in the child care industry. All individuals who have successfully completed the mandatory 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training prior to January 1, 2004 are not required to fulfill the competency examination requirement. Beginning July 1, 2006, the 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training will be replaced by five (5) individual training courses which total 30 clock-hours of training: Family Child Care Home Rules and Regulations; Health, Safety and Nutrition; Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect; Child Growth and Development; and Behavioral Observation and Screening.
a. Child care personnel have one (1) opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from one (1) or more of the department’s Introductory Child Care Training courses prior to attending training by successful completion of corresponding competency examinations with a weighted score of 70 or better. The Family Child Care Home training must be documented on the Department of Children and Family Services CF-FSP Form 5267 or the Department of Children and Family Services child care training transcript.
b. Beginning July 1, 2006 the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative shall exempt individuals from the Health, Safety, and Nutrition; Child Growth and Development; and Behavioral Observation and Screening courses who meet one (1) of the following educational qualifications:
(I) Associate’s degree or higher with six (6) college credit hours in early childhood education/child growth and development or degree in elementary education with certification to teach any age birth through 6th grade; or
(II) An active National Early Childhood Credential or an active Birth Through Five Florida Child Care Professional Credential.
2. Within 12 months of date of employment in the child care industry, complete a single course of training in early literacy and language development of children ages birth through five (5) that is a minimum of five (5) clock-hours or .5 CEUs. Proof of completion will be documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom transcript, or diploma. In order to meet this requirement, employees must complete one (1) of the following:
a. One (1) of the department’s online literacy courses available on the Department of Children and Family Services website at www.myflorida.com/childcare; or
b. One (1) of the department’s approved literacy training courses. A list of these courses may be obtained from the licensing authority on the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare (no additional courses will be approved by the department); or
c. One (1) college level early literacy course (for credit or non-credit) if taken within the last five (5) years.
(e) Substitutes for an employee at a large family child care home. Prior to caring for children, substitutes for an employee at a large family child care home who work less than 40 hours a month on average during a 12 month period shall complete the department’s three (3) clock-hour Fundamentals of Child Care Training. Large family child care substitutes who have successfully completed the 30 clock-hour Family Child Care Home training are not required to complete the three (3) clock-hour Fundamentals of Child Care training.
(f) Documentation of Training. Training completed successfully will be documented on the training tran or on CF-FSP Form 5267.
(a) In addition to the successful completion of the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training completed prior to caring for children, large family child care home operators must successfully complete training as evidenced by passage of a competency examination with a score of seventy (70) or better in 10-clock-hours of specialized training from the Department of Children and Family Services specialized training from the Department of Children and Family Services specialized training modules within six (6) months of licensure:
1. Infant and Toddler Appropriate Practices (10 hours);
2. Preschool Appropriate Practices (10 hours);
3. School-Age Appropriate Practices for school-age children (10 hours);
4. Special Needs Appropriate Practices (10 hours);
5. Basic Guidance and Discipline (5 hours web based);
6. Computer Technology for Child Care Professionals (5 hours web based); and
7. Early Literacy in the Child Care Environment (5 hours web based).
(b) Large family child care home operators shall complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age by June 30, 2005, as documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom tran, or diploma. Literacy training must be a single class or course that is no less than 5 hours in duration. In order to meet this requirement, large family child care home operators must select a training course from the Department of Children and Family Services' list of approved training programs, which can be accessed by going to the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/ childcare/training, or by contacting the licensing authority. Literacy training that was taken between July 1, 1999 and July 1, 2004 will be accepted by the licensing authority until January 1, 2005, if it meets all the required components stated above.
(c) Training trans are updated upon the successful completion of training, as evidenced by the passage of a competency examination with a score of seventy (70) or better. Competency examinations will be offered by the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative. Prior to attending the training, Large Family Child Care Home operators have one opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from the 10-clock-hour specialized training modules by successfully completing competency examinations with a score of seventy (70) or better. The 10-hour specialized training must be documented on CF-FSP Form 5267, May 2003, or the Department of Children and Family Services' child care training transcript. Examination exemptions are not available for the Department of Children and Family Services’ web based Part II specialized training modules.
(d) Large family child care homes must have one person on the premises during all hours of operation who has a valid certificate of course completion for infant and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures and first aid training.
(e) Employees in a large family child care home shall be at least 18 years of age and within 90 days of employment within the child care field, shall begin the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training. Prior to attending the training, employees in a large family child care home have one opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training by successfully completing competency examinations with a score of seventy (70) or better. The training shall be successfully completed within one year of the date on which the training began, as evidenced by the passage of a competency examination with a score of seventy (70) or better. The Family Child Care Home training must be documented on the Department of Children and Family Services' CF-FSP Form 5267, May 2003, or the Department of Children and Family Services' child care training transcript. In addition to the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, all employees in a large family child care home, hired on or before December 31, 2004, shall complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age, as documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom transcript, or diploma; by June 30, 2005. Employees hired on or after January 1, 2005, prior to caring for children, must complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age. Literacy training must be a single class or course that is no less than five (5) hours in duration. In order to meet this requirement, employees must select a training course from the Department of Children and Family Services' list of approved literacy training programs, which can be accessed by going to from the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare/training, or by contacting the licensing authority. Literacy training that was taken between July 1, 1999 and July 1, 2004 will be accepted by the licensing authority until January 1, 2005, if it meets all the required components stated above.
(f) Prior to taking care of children, substitutes for the operator of large family child care homes shall be at least 18 years of age and shall have successfully completed the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, as evidenced by the passage of a competency examination with a score of seventy (70) or better. Prior to attending the training, substitutes for the operator have one opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training by successfully completing competency examinations with a score of seventy (70) or better. Competency examinations will be offered by the Department of Children and Family Services or its designated representative. Completion of the 30 hour Family Child Care Home training shall be documented on the Department of Children and Family Services' CF-FSP Form 5267, May 2003, or the Department of Children and Family Services' child care training transcript. In addition to the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, prior to caring for children, all substitutes for the operator of the large family child care home, hired on or before December 31, 2004, shall complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age, as documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom transcript, or diploma; by June 30, 2005. Substitutes for the operator hired on or after January 1, 2005, prior to caring for children, must complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age. Literacy training must be a single class or course that is no less than 5 hours in duration. In order to meet this requirement, substitutes must select a training course from the Department of Children and Family Services’ list of approved literacy training programs, which may be accessed by going to the Department of Children and Family Services' website at www.myflorida.com/childcare/training, or by contacting the licensing authority. Literacy training that was taken between July 1, 1999 and July 1, 2004 will be accepted by the licensing authority until January 1, 2005, if it meets all the required components stated above.
(g) Prior to caring for children, substitutes for an employee at a large family child care home who work less than 40 hours a month on average during a 12 month period, shall complete the department’s 3-clock-hour Fundamentals of Child Care Training.
(h) Prior to taking care of children, substitutes for an employee at a large family child care home who work more than 40 hours a month on average during a 12 month period, shall successfully complete the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, as demonstrated through passage of a competency examination with a score of seventy (70) or better, documented on the form or transcript referenced above. Prior to attending the training, substitutes for an employee at a large family child care home who work more than 40 hours a month on average during a 12 month period have one opportunity, if they choose, to exempt from the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training by successfully completing competency examinations with a score of seventy (70) or better. All large family child care home substitutes who have completed the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training prior to the availability of the competency examination will not be required to complete the competency based testing. In addition to the 30-clock-hour Family Child Care Home training, prior to caring for children, all substitutes for an employee of a large family child care home, hired on or before December 31, 2004, shall complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age, as documented on the certificate of course completion, classroom transcript, or diploma; by June 30, 2005. Substitutes for the employee; hired on or after January 1, 2005, prior to caring for children, must complete 5-clock-hours or .5 continuing education unit (CEU) of training in early literacy and language development of children from birth to 5 years of age. In order to meet this requirement, substitutes for the employee must select a training course from the Department of Children and Family Services’ list of approved literacy training programs, which can be accessed by going to the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/childcare/training, or by contacting the licensing authority. Literacy training that was taken between July 1, 1999 and July 1, 2004 will be accepted by the licensing authority until January 1, 2005, if it meets all the required components stated above.
(6) Annual In-Service Training.
(a) All large family child care home operators and employees, must complete a minimum of 10 clock-hours or one (1) CEU of in-service training or 1 CEU, annually during the operator state's 12 month licensing period fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30.
(b) The annual 10-clock-hours or one (1) CEU of in-service training concentrating on children ages birth through 12or 1 CEU, must be completed in one (1) or more of the following areas (college level courses will be accepted):
1. through 2. No change.
3. First Aid (this training may only be taken to meet the in-service requirement once every three (3) years);
4. through 22. No change.
(c) Documentation of the in-service training requirement must be recorded on CF-FSP Form 5268A, Feb. 04, Child Care In-Service Training Record, which is incorporated by reference, and maintained at the large family child care home. CF-FSP Form 5268A may be obtained from the licensing authority or on by going to the Department of Children and Family Services’ website at www.myflorida.com/ childcare/training. A new in-service training record is required each licensing fiscal year. In addition to maintaining the training record for the current fiscal year, Tthe in-service training records for the previous two (2) licensing fiscal years must also be maintained at the large family child day care home for review by the licensing authority. College level courses that cover the topics above may also be counted to meet the annual in-service training requirement.
(7) LFCCH Supervision.
(a) In a large family child care home, direct supervision must be maintained at all times during the hours of operation. Direct supervision means watching and directing children’s activities within the area designated as usable indoor floor space or outdoor play space and responding to each child’s need. While children are napping or sleeping in bedrooms, the bedroom doors must remain open.
(b) Additional Supervision Requirements.
1. In addition to the number of staff required to meet staff-to-child ratios, if there are more than six (6) preschoolers participating on field trips away from the large family child care home, there must be one (1) additional adult present, per each six (6) preschoolers, or any fraction thereof, to provide direct supervision to the children. Where some children remain in the home, the adult supervision as required in Section 402.302(8), F.S., shall be maintained. At no time shall the total number of children exceed the capacity as defined in Sections. 402.3131, F.S.
2. If a large family child care home uses a swimming pool that which exceeds three (3) feet in depth or uses beach or lake areas for water activities, the large family child care home must provide one (1) person with a certified lifeguard certificate or equivalent, unless a certified lifeguard is on duty and present when children are in the swimming area.
(8) Transportation.
(a) When any vehicle is regularly used by a large family child care home to provide transportation, the driver shall have a current Florida driver’s license in accordance with Sectionss. 322.01- 322.70, F.lorida S.tatutes.
(b) through (f) No change.
1. Driver's Log. A log shall be maintained for all children being transported in the vehicle. The log shall be retained for a minimum of six (6) months. The log shall include each child’s name, date, time of departure and time of arrival, signature of driver and signature of second staff member to verify driver’s log and the fact that all children have left the vehicle.
2. No change.
a. Mmark each child off the log as the child departs the vehicle,
b. Cconduct a physical inspection and visual sweep of the vehicle to ensure that no child is left in the vehicle, and
c. Ssign, date and record the driver's log immediately, verifying that all children were all accounted for and that the visual sweep was conducted.
3. Upon arrival at the destination, a second staff member shall:
a. Cconduct a physical inspection and visual sweep of the vehicle to ensure that no child is left in the vehicle, and
b. Ssign, date and record the driver's log immediately, verifying that all children were accounted for and that the drivers log is complete.
(f) No change.
(9) Planned and Unplanned Activities.
(a) Each age group or class must have a written and followed plan of scheduled activities posted in a conspicuous location place accessible to the custodial parents or legal guardian. The written plan must meet the needs of the children being served and include scheduled activities that which:
1. Promote emotional, social, intellectual and physical growth;.
2. Include quiet and active play, both indoors and outdoors;. and
3. No change.
(b) A permission and transportation release form signed by the custodial parent or legal guardian of the children in care must be on file for planned and unplanned activities.
1. A telephone or other means of instant communication shall be available to the operator, employee or other adult responsible for children during all field trips. Cellular phones, two-way radio devices, citizen band radios, and other means of instant communication are acceptable.
2. Emergency medical forms signed by the custodial parent or legal guardian and emergency contact numbers must accompany the children on all field trips.
(10) Child Discipline.
(a) Large family child care homes shall adopt a discipline policy consistent with Section s. 402.305(12), F.S.
(b) All child care personnel of the large family child care home must shall comply with the large family child care home's' written disciplinary policy. Such policies shall include standards that prohibit children from being subjected to discipline which is severe, humiliating, frightening, or associated with food, rest, or toileting. Spanking or any other form of physical punishment is prohibited by all child care personnel.
(c) No change.
(11) LFCCH General Requirements.
(a) Fire Safety. Large family child care homes shall conform to state standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal, Chapter 69A-36, F.lorida A.dministrative C.ode, Uniform Fire Safety Standards for Child Care Facilities and shall be inspected annually.
(b) No change.
1. A large family child care home must have 35 square feet of usable indoor floor space per child that which does not include bedrooms unless it can be demonstrated that these bedrooms are used as multipurpose activity rooms.
2. Usable indoor floor space refers to that space available for indoor play and activities. Usable indoor floor space is calculated by measuring at floor level from interior walls and by deleting space for stairways, toilets and bath facilities, permanent fixtures and non-movable furniture. Kitchens, offices, laundry rooms, storage areas, hallways, and other areas not used in normal day-to-day operations are not included when calculating usable indoor floor space.
3. Shelves or storage for toys and other materials shall be considered as usable indoor floor space if accessible to children.
4. No change.
5. Large family child care homes shall make available toys, equipment and furnishings suitable to each child’s age and development and of a quantity suitable for each child to be involved in activities.
6. No change.
(c) No change.
1. At all large family child care homes, the outdoor play space shall maintain safe and adequate be fencinged, or walls, a minimum of four (4) feet in height. Fencing, including gates, must be continuous and shall not have gaps that would allow children to exit the outdoor play area. The base of the fence must remain at ground level, free from erosion or buildup, to prevent inside or outside access by children or animals.
2. All large family child care homes must have a minimum of 270 square feet of usable outdoor play space located on their property and which is exclusively used for the children attending or residing at the large family child care home. Large family child care homes caring only for infants under 12 months of age, shall not be required to have an outdoor play space.; however, infants in care shall be provided opportunities for outdoor time each day that weather permits.
3. No change.
4. All playground equipment shall be securely anchored, unless portable or stationary by design, in good repair, maintained in safe condition, and placed to ensure safe usage by the children. Maintenance shall include checks, at least every other month, of all supports, above and below the ground, all connectors, and moving parts.
5. Permanent or stationary playground equipment must have a ground cover or other protective surface under the equipment that which provides resilience and is maintained to reduce the incidence of injuries to children in the event of falls.
6. All equipment, fences, and objects on the large family child care home’s premises shall be free from of sharp, broken and jagged edges and properly placed to prevent overcrowding or safety hazards in any one (1) area.
7. No change.
(d) No change.
1. The operator shall prepare an emergency evacuation plan including a diagram of safe routes by which the operator, employee and children may exit each area of the home in the event of fire or other emergency requiring evacuation. This plan shall be posted or shared with the employees, custodial and parents, and/or legal guardians.
2. In addition to conducting fire drills as specified in 65C-20.010(3)(b)4., F.A.C., Tthe large family child care home shall maintain and retain a written the fire drill record of monthly fire drills as specified in subparagraph 65C-20.010(3)(b)4., F.A.C. on the premises for twelve months.
(12) LFCCH Enforcement. Pursuant to Section 402.3131, F.S., the department or local licensing agency shall deny, suspend, revoke a license, or impose an administrative fine for the violation of any provision of ss. 402.301-.319, F.S., or rules adopted thereunder.
(a) No change.
(b) Child Safety. Pursuant to Section 402.301, F.S., acts or omissions that meet the definition of child abuse or neglect constitute a violation of the standards in Section 402.301-.309, F.S.
Specific Authority 402.3131 FS. Law Implemented 402.302, 402.305, 402.3131 FS. History–New 5-21-00, Amended 1-4-01, 7-13-03, 9-12-04,_________.
Document Information
- Subject:
- Child Care Standards.
- Purpose:
- The proposed amendments by the Child Care Program Office (CCPO) of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) to F.A.C. Chapter 65C-20, F.A.C., are necessary for the uniform and proper administration and enforcement of State of Florida child care training and licensure policies and procedures. The granting of rule writing authority to the CCPO of all Child Development Associate Equivalency (CDAE) programs by the legislature in 2004 as well as the statewide Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten ...
- Rulemaking Authority:
- 402.302, 402.305 FS.
- Law:
- 402.302, 402.305 FS.
- Contact:
- Carrie Pafford, Government Operations Consultant II, 1317 Winewood Blvd., Building 6, Room 388, Tallahassee, FL 32399, (850)488-4900
- Related Rules: (6)
- 65C-20.008. Application
- 65C-20.009. Staffing Requirements
- 65C-20.010. Health Related Requirements
- 65C-20.011. Health Records
- 65C-20.012. Enforcement
- More ...