Tutor Time Child Care Learning Centers - Norwalk

Safe Sleep: Infants under twelve months of age shall be placed in a supine (back) position for sleeping in a well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child. A well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment shall be used designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child, with a snug fitting mattress covered by a tightly-fitted sheet. Infants under twelve months of age shall be placed in a supine (back) position for sleeping in a well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child, with a snug fitting mattress covered by a tightly-fitted sheet unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying a medical reason for an alternative sleep position or alternate piece of equipment. When infants can easily turn over from the supine to the prone position, they shall be put down to sleep on their back, but allowed to adopt whatever position they prefer for sleep. No items including, but not limited to, pillows, soft bumpers, toys and blankets, including weighted blankets, weighted sleepers, and weighted swaddles, shall be placed with an infant in a crib or hung over the side of a crib or other piece of equipment designed for sleeping except for a pacifier without attachments unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying a medical reason for its use. Bibs and garments with ties or hoods shall be removed from infants that are placed to sleep. No toys or objects shall be attached to sleeping or rest equipment. No infant shall be put to sleep on a sofa, bed, couch, soft mattress, waterbed or other soft surface. No infant shall be put to sleep or allowed to remain asleep in a child restraint system intended for use in a vehicle, an infant carrier, a swing or any place that is not specifically designed to be an infant bed unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying a medical reason for their use. No infant shall be swaddled unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying instructions and a timeframe for swaddling the infant. Infants under twelve months of age shall be physically observed at least every fifteen minutes to assess the infants breathing, color, temperature and comfort. No child under three years of age shall have access to teething necklaces, teething bracelets or other jewelry that could present a choking or strangulation hazard. Written policies and procedures for sleep arrangements shall include the requirements of this subsection and shall be posted in a conspicuous place in the areas where infants under twelve months of age sleep. The operator shall document that the child’s parent(s) has been informed of the child care center or group child care home’s policies and procedures for sleep arrangements prior to enrollment and reviewed as needed during the period of the child’s enrollment.

Rule 19a-79-10(g)(1-8).

Policies- complete, implemented: The operator shall implement and annually review specific written policies, plans and procedures that include, but not necessarily be limited to discipline, when a child is not picked up as planned, multi-hazard and medical emergencies, supervision of children, general operating policies, administrative oversight and personnel policies. The operator shall notify the parent(s), staff and the Office of Early Childhood within five (5) days of changes in these policies, plans and procedures.

Rule 19a-79-3a(d)(2)-(7).

Individual care plan- signed by parents/staff: An individual plan of care for any child with special health care needs or disabilities when it is necessary that special care be taken or provided while a child is in attendance shall be developed and implemented with the child’s parent(s) and health care provider and updated, as necessary. The plan shall include appropriate care of the child to prevent and respond to a medical or other emergency and shall be signed by the parent and program staff responsible for the care of the child.

Rule 19a-79-5a(a)(2)(E).

Fire marshal codes/certificate: The operator shall comply with all local codes and ordinances, including the State of Connecticut Fire Safey Code. These codes include but are not limited to: inspections by the fire marshal, ensuring fire marshal inspection certificates are on file, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and documentation of fire drills.

Rule 19a-79-7a(a)(2).

Licensed premises-clean, good repair, hazard free-maintenance program: For programs serving children younger than school age, the building, equipment and furnishings shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.

Rule 19a-79-7a(c)(2).

Potentially hazardous substances, materials – labeled, inaccessible to children: Potentially hazardous substances and materials in the child care centers and group child care homes shall be stored in a labeled container identifying the exact contents and dilutions, used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and for the intended purpose, handled in a safe manner and inaccessible to children.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(10).

Walls/ceilings/floors/rugs-clean, good repair: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable. Rugs, if used, shall not present a tripping or slipping hazard.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(5).

Outdoor space: There shall be access to a minimum of seventy-five (75) square feet per child of outdoor space for the number of children using the space at any one time. The outdoor area shall be fenced or protected for safety. Outdoor play equipment shall have a shock absorbing surface, under and around, that shall effectively cushion the fall of a child, except where the child is sitting or standing at ground level. The shock absorbing surface shall be maintained at a depth of at least eight inches, be free of water and not allowed to become compacted. Acceptable shock absorbing surfaces may include mulch, sand, and wood chips. Synthetic material that is less than eight inches in depth, including but not limited to, rubber mats or tiles may be acceptable surfaces provided the operator maintains documentation on the licensed premises that the synthetic material is manufactured for this purpose, installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and sufficient to cushion the fall of a child. Concrete, asphalt, grass and dirt shall not be considered a shock absorbing surface. The playground shall be free of glass, debris, holes and other hazards. Nuts, bolts and screws shall be tight; and those that protrude shall be covered or protected. Outside equipment shall be anchored for stability when recommended by the manufacturer. Anchors shall be buried below ground level. The operator shall provide documentation to the Office, upon request, by a certified playground safety inspector that newly constructed playgrounds and all newly installed playground equipment that are set in position and anchored in such a way to last indefinitely are designed and installed in accordance with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Society for Testing and Materials Standards. Drinking water shall be available and accessible to children. Outdoor equipment shall be arranged in such a way as to avoid accidents. All play equipment, fences, and structures shall not pose a hazard.

Rule 19a-79-7a(h)(1-9).

Authorized prescriber/parent permission: Except for nonprescription topical medications, no medication shall be administered to a child without the written order of an authorized prescriber and the written permission of the child’s parent(s) which shall be on file at the facility. Individual written medication administration records for each child shall be written in ink, reviewed prior to administering each dose of medication and kept on file at the facility for at least three years after the child is no longer attending the program.

Rule 19a-79-9a(b)(3)(A-B).

Adequate sinks-handwashing-diapering/other use-food prep: In child care centers there shall be a sink with hot and cold running water designated for diaper changing and hand washing of program staff and children. This sink shall be located in the program space. Child care centers which have three program staff for a group of infants or toddlers may use an accessible diaper changing facility if it is immediately adjoining the program area. Separate sinks shall be available for purposes other than hand washing after diaper changing within child care centers. Group child care homes shall have a sink accessible for hand washing other than the sink used for food preparation.

Rule 19a-79-10(d)(1)(A-C).

Toys and other objects: Toys used for infants shall be kept separate, washed and sanitized at least daily. Toys for toddlers, including floor and riding toys, shall be washed and sanitized at least weekly and as needed. Toys and other objects with a diameter of less than one and one-quarter inches, objects with removable parts that have a diameter of less than one and one-quarter inches, balloons and Styrofoam objects shall not be accessible to children under three years of age unless such objects are part of a designated and directly supervised activity. Plastic bags, not in use, shall be stored out of reach and inaccessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags, while in use, may be stored within reach of children under three years of age provided access to such bags is only under direct and immediate supervision.

Rule 19a-79-10(h)(1)-(2).

Local Health Inspection: At least every two (2) years, the local health director shall make unannounced visits, inspections or investigations of the licensed child care center or group child care home.

Rule 19a-79-2a(c)(8).

Policies- complete, implemented: The operator shall implement and annually review specific written policies, plans and procedures that include, but not necessarily be limited to discipline, when a child is not picked up as planned, multi-hazard and medical emergencies, supervision of children, general operating policies, administrative oversight and personnel policies. The operator shall notify the parent(s), staff and the Office of Early Childhood within five (5) days of changes in these policies, plans and procedures.

Rule 19a-79-3a(d)(2)-(7).

Professional development: Documentation of professional development for each program staff who cares for the children, including new employee orientation and annual training for current program staff on the child care center or group child care home policies, plans and procedures. Program staff, including the director, shall complete health and safety training no later than three months after the date of hire. Written verification of ongoing training that is at least one percent of the total annual hours worked. As of April 1, 2025, such annual training shall include content as defined in 45 CFR § 98.41(a)(1)(i) to (a)(1)(xi). Such education may include, but is not limited to, early education and child development, licensing and regulations, emergency preparedness, prevention and control of infectious diseases, prevention of sudden infant death syndrome and use of safe sleep practices, administration of medication, prevention and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions, building and physical premises safety, protection from hazards, bodies of water, and vehicular traffic; handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of bio contaminants; child maltreatment, prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma, precautions in transporting children, pediatric first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, nutrition and programming for children with disabilities or special health care needs.

Rule 19a-79-4a(a)(2), (h)(1-2).

Consultants: An education consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice and support regarding the educational content and practice of the program. A person needs to apply for approval to be an education consultant. Program staff shall not serve as education consultants for programs in which they provide direct care or direct program supervision in a non-consultative role; or in a program with the same operator as a program in which they provide direct care or direct program supervision in a non-consultative role. Specific duties of the education consultant shall include, but not be limited to making, at a minimum, annual site visits to the facility, reviewing daily plans, curriculum documents, and educational policies for the developmental and age appropriate practices, observing program staff interactions, use of materials and equipment, implementation of plans and approaches to classroom management; and providing feedback on documentation review and classroom observations to the director and head teacher. A health consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice regarding the health of the children and the health program. Specific duties of the health consultant shall include, but not be limited to making, at a minimum, quarterly site visits to facilities that serve children three years of age and older; or for group child care homes, facilities that operate no more than three hours per day, or facilities that enroll only school age children, semi-annual site visits. Facilities that are closed during the summer months may omit the summer quarterly visit. Site visits shall be made by the health consultant during customary business hours when the children are present at the facility. Specific duties include, but are not limited to reviewing health and immunization records of children and program staff, reviewing the contents, storage and plan for maintenance of first aid kits, observing the indoor and outdoor environments for health and safety, observing children’s general health and development, observing diaper changing and toileting areas and diaper changing, toileting and hand washing procedures, reviewing the policies, procedures and required documentation for the administration of medications, including petitions for special medication authorizations needed for programs that administer medication, assisting in the review of individual care plans for children with special health care needs or children with disabilities, as needed; and quarterly review of all injury, illness, incident and accident reports. A social service consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice regarding the emotional needs, program staff support and the social service program. A registered dietitian consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice regarding nutrition and food service for those programs that prepare or plan meals. A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. Consultative service shall include, but not be limited to an annual review of written policies, plans and procedures that relate to the services provided by the consultant, availability by telecommunication for advice regarding problems, availability, in person, of the consultant to the program, consulting with administration and program staff about specific problems, acting as a resource person to program staff and the parent(s) to include coordinating services and assisting families and program staff in identifying necessary resources, and seeking and supporting the collaboration of multiple consultants serving the program. The activities and observations required by each consultant shall be documented in a consultation log that is kept on file at the facility for two years.

Rule 19a-79-4a(i)(1-2)(H), (F).

Immunization records: The operator of a child care center or group child care home is responsible for maintaining on the licensed premises a current record for each child enrolled. A copy of the record shall be available and provided upon request to the Office of Early Childhood, the child’s parent(s) and the local health director. It shall include a health record that shall include date of birth, a physical examination form, an immunization record, and information regarding disabilities or special health care needs.

Rule 19a-79-5a(2)(C).

Individual care plan- signed by parents/staff: An individual plan of care for any child with special health care needs or disabilities when it is necessary that special care be taken or provided while a child is in attendance shall be developed and implemented with the child’s parent(s) and health care provider and updated, as necessary. The plan shall include appropriate care of the child to prevent and respond to a medical or other emergency and shall be signed by the parent and program staff responsible for the care of the child.

Rule 19a-79-5a(a)(2)(E).

Proper Refrigeration -41 degrees: There shall be proper refrigeration of no more than forty-one (41) degrees Fahrenheit for perishable foods in all child care centers and group child care homes and on field trips.

Rule 19a-79-6a(a)(3).

Fire marshal codes/certificate: The operator shall comply with all local codes and ordinances, including the State of Connecticut Fire Safey Code. These codes include but are not limited to: inspections by the fire marshal, ensuring fire marshal inspection certificates are on file, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and documentation of fire drills.

Rule 19a-79-7a(a)(2).

Licensed premises-clean, good repair, hazard free-maintenance program: For programs serving children younger than school age, the building, equipment and furnishings shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.

Rule 19a-79-7a(c)(2).

Potentially hazardous substances, materials – labeled, inaccessible to children: Potentially hazardous substances and materials in the child care centers and group child care homes shall be stored in a labeled container identifying the exact contents and dilutions, used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and for the intended purpose, handled in a safe manner and inaccessible to children.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(10).

Walls/ceilings/floors/rugs-clean, good repair: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable. Rugs, if used, shall not present a tripping or slipping hazard.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(5).

Developmentally appr. equipment/materials: The materials and equipment available and used by children shall be developmentally appropriate for the ages of the children served.

Rule 19a-79-7a(g)(4).

Outdoor space: There shall be access to a minimum of seventy-five (75) square feet per child of outdoor space for the number of children using the space at any one time. The outdoor area shall be fenced or protected for safety. Outdoor play equipment shall have a shock absorbing surface, under and around, that shall effectively cushion the fall of a child, except where the child is sitting or standing at ground level. The shock absorbing surface shall be maintained at a depth of at least eight inches, be free of water and not allowed to become compacted. Acceptable shock absorbing surfaces may include mulch, sand, and wood chips. Synthetic material that is less than eight inches in depth, including but not limited to, rubber mats or tiles may be acceptable surfaces provided the operator maintains documentation on the licensed premises that the synthetic material is manufactured for this purpose, installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and sufficient to cushion the fall of a child. Concrete, asphalt, grass and dirt shall not be considered a shock absorbing surface. The playground shall be free of glass, debris, holes and other hazards. Nuts, bolts and screws shall be tight; and those that protrude shall be covered or protected. Outside equipment shall be anchored for stability when recommended by the manufacturer. Anchors shall be buried below ground level. The operator shall provide documentation to the Office, upon request, by a certified playground safety inspector that newly constructed playgrounds and all newly installed playground equipment that are set in position and anchored in such a way to last indefinitely are designed and installed in accordance with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Society for Testing and Materials Standards. Drinking water shall be available and accessible to children. Outdoor equipment shall be arranged in such a way as to avoid accidents. All play equipment, fences, and structures shall not pose a hazard.

Rule 19a-79-7a(h)(1-9).

Licensed premises-clean, good repair, hazard free-maintenance program: For programs serving children younger than school age, the building, equipment and furnishings shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.

Rule 19a-79-7a(c)(2).

Diapering: The diapering area shall be an elevated sturdy table or counter equipped with a safety rail. Infants and toddlers shall be diapered at a diapering area used only for this purpose and located in the program area. Each diapering area shall have a non-porous surface and be kept in good repair. Diapering areas shall be washed and disinfected after each use. Disposable paper sheets shall be used and discarded immediately after each diapering. A covered washable lined waste receptacle shall be available and located in a convenient place for soiled waste material. These materials shall be removed to an exterior waste storage area at least daily. Disposable diapers shall be discarded in a covered receptacle immediately after diapering. The hands of the program staff and the children shall be washed after each diaper change. Diapering and hand washing policies and procedures shall be posted in each diapering area and followed. When cloth diapers or training pants are used, a written plan for their use and care shall be developed and implemented. This plan shall include, but not be limited to, these procedures: placing soiled clothing and diapers in a sealed air tight container; removing soiled clothing and diapers from the child care center or group child care home daily; and cleaning and sanitizing the container daily.

Rule 19a-79-10(e)(1-10).

Safe Sleep: Infants under twelve months of age shall be placed in a supine (back) position for sleeping in a well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child. A well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment shall be used designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child, with a snug fitting mattress covered by a tightly-fitted sheet. Infants under twelve months of age shall be placed in a supine (back) position for sleeping in a well-constructed, free standing crib or other piece of equipment designed for infant sleeping and appropriate for the particular child, with a snug fitting mattress covered by a tightly-fitted sheet unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying a medical reason for an alternative sleep position or alternate piece of equipment. When infants can easily turn over from the supine to the prone position, they shall be put down to sleep on their back, but allowed to adopt whatever position they prefer for sleep. No items including, but not limited to, pillows, soft bumpers, toys and blankets, including weighted blankets, weighted sleepers, and weighted swaddles, shall be placed with an infant in a crib or hung over the side of a crib or other piece of equipment designed for sleeping except for a pacifier without attachments unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying a medical reason for its use. Bibs and garments with ties or hoods shall be removed from infants that are placed to sleep. No toys or objects shall be attached to sleeping or rest equipment. No infant shall be put to sleep on a sofa, bed, couch, soft mattress, waterbed or other soft surface. No infant shall be put to sleep or allowed to remain asleep in a child restraint system intended for use in a vehicle, an infant carrier, a swing or any place that is not specifically designed to be an infant bed unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying a medical reason for their use. No infant shall be swaddled unless the child has written documentation from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying instructions and a timeframe for swaddling the infant. Infants under twelve months of age shall be physically observed at least every fifteen minutes to assess the infants breathing, color, temperature and comfort. No child under three years of age shall have access to teething necklaces, teething bracelets or other jewelry that could present a choking or strangulation hazard. Written policies and procedures for sleep arrangements shall include the requirements of this subsection and shall be posted in a conspicuous place in the areas where infants under twelve months of age sleep. The operator shall document that the child�s parent(s) has been informed of the child care center or group child care home�s policies and procedures for sleep arrangements prior to enrollment and reviewed as needed during the period of the child�s enrollment.

Rule 19a-79-10(g)(1-8).

Toys and other objects: Toys used for infants shall be kept separate, washed and sanitized at least daily. Toys for toddlers, including floor and riding toys, shall be washed and sanitized at least weekly and as needed. Toys and other objects with a diameter of less than one and one-quarter inches, objects with removable parts that have a diameter of less than one and one-quarter inches, balloons and Styrofoam objects shall not be accessible to children under three years of age unless such objects are part of a designated and directly supervised activity. Plastic bags, not in use, shall be stored out of reach and inaccessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags, while in use, may be stored within reach of children under three years of age provided access to such bags is only under direct and immediate supervision.

Rule 19a-79-10(h)(1)-(2).

Feeding: Infants shall be removed from their cribs and held for all bottle feedings. They may be placed in chairs for all other feedings. Infants and toddlers shall be removed from their cribs or playpens at other intervals during the day for individual cuddlings and for verbal communication. They shall be allowed to crawl and toddle as age and development permit. Each infant shall be placed in a prone (front) position part of the time when awake. When food and liquids are served a written statement specifying the formula, breast milk or other liquids and the feeding schedule for infants shall be obtained from the parent(s), updated as necessary and followed by program staff. Unused portions of formula, breast milk or other liquids shall be discarded after each feeding. Clean bottles shall be provided by the parent(s) unless the facility uses disposable bottles or has a dishwasher or dishwashing system approved by the local director of health to wash bottles. Baby food shall be served from a dish unless the whole contents of the jar will be served. Each child’s bottle shall be individually identified with the child’s name.

Rule 19a-79-10(j)-(k)(1-5).

Ensuring the safety & health of children: The operator of the child care center or group child care home shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies and applicable endorsements in such a manner as to ensure the safety, health and development of the children while in the operator’s care.

Rule 19a-79-3a(a).

Notification of Change: The operator shall notify the Office of Early Childhood, the parent(s) and staff of any changes in programs or services. Notification of personnel changes shall be made within five (5) business days after the change. If the change is for a head teacher, a plan for interim head teacher coverage shall be submitted to the Office of Early Childhood. A qualified head teacher or a plan approved by the commissioner shall be in place within thirty (30) days of change of a qualified head teacher. Notification of changes related to the licensed capacity, fees, services or voluntary closing shall be made at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of the proposed change. A change of location, change of operator or a change of ownership requires a new initial application.

Rule 19a-79-3a(c)(1-4).

Postings: The operator shall post the following items in a conspicuous place, accessible to the public: the license, the OEC complaint procedure, menus, No Smoking signs, the plan for administrative oversight, the radon test, the OEC Inspection report (posted or available), the safe sleep policy and the OEC Developmental Milestones document.

Rule 19a-79-3a(d)6)(C), (e)(1-6), 7a(e)(17), 10(g)(8).

2.8 yr olds enrolled in preschool-authorization: A child care center or group child care home with a preschool endorsement may deem a child who is thirty-two to thirty-six months of age, inclusive, to be three years of age for purposes of enrolling such child in a preschool program provided such child care center or group child care home receives written authorization from such child�s parent and the director to so enroll such child in the preschool program. The written authorization shall be kept on file at the child care center or group child care home and available to the Office upon request.

Rule 19a-79-3a(l).

Staff Health Records: A file shall be kept on the licensed premises for each employee of the child care center or group child care home which shall include an acceptable medical statement, completed within 12 months before the date of employment for new program staff, and every 36 months for current program staff. Such statement shall document the presence of any known medical or emotional illness or disorder that would currently pose a risk to children.

Rule 19a-79-4a(a)(1).

Professional development: Documentation of professional development for each program staff who cares for the children, including new employee orientation and annual training for current program staff on the child care center or group child care home policies, plans and procedures. Program staff, including the director, shall complete health and safety training no later than three months after the date of hire. Written verification of ongoing training that is at least one percent of the total annual hours worked. As of April 1, 2025, such annual training shall include content as defined in 45 CFR � 98.41(a)(1)(i) to (a)(1)(xi). Such education may include, but is not limited to, early education and child development, licensing and regulations, emergency preparedness, prevention and control of infectious diseases, prevention of sudden infant death syndrome and use of safe sleep practices, administration of medication, prevention and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions, building and physical premises safety, protection from hazards, bodies of water, and vehicular traffic; handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of bio contaminants; child maltreatment, prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma, precautions in transporting children, pediatric first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, nutrition and programming for children with disabilities or special health care needs.

Rule 19a-79-4a(a)(2), (h)(1-2).

Comprehensive background checks: The operator shall ensure that all program staff have completed a comprehensive background check before they have unsupervised access to children. The operator shall provide to the Office of Early Childhood any information obtained concerning substantiated child abuse or neglect records or criminal convictions upon request. The operator shall obtain from each prospective employee, who is eighteen years of age or older, for a position that requires the provision of care to a child or involves unsupervised access to a child, a listing of all employment held in the United States for an organization that provides care or services to children in the preceding five years. The operator shall take reasonable steps to contact each previous employer provided by the prospective employee to verify at a minimum the prospective employee�s job title, description of his/her regular duties, confirmation of employment dates, and whether such previous employer would recommend the prospective employee for rehire. This information shall be made accessible to the Office upon request. The operator shall not employ program staff, including volunteers, who have a record that the commissioner reasonably believes renders such program staff unsuitable to be employed in a child care center or group child care home.

Rule 19a-79-4a(b).

Designated Director: The child care center or group child care home shall maintain documentation on site that there is a designated director who is twenty years of age or older. Any director hired or newly designated shall have not later than one year of being hired/ designated, at least three credits in the administration of early childhood education programs or educational administration from a regionally accredited higher education institution.

Rule 19a-79-4a(e)(1).

CPR Certified program staff: At all times the child care center is in operation there shall be present at least one program staff member who has current certification in CPR appropriate for all of the children served at the child care center or group child care home. The certification shall be based on a hands-on demonstration of the individual�s ability to provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Such program staff shall respond to all medical emergencies. Written verification of such training shall be kept on file.

Rule 19a-79-4a(f)(1).

First Aid Certified program staff: At all times the child care center or group child care home is in operation, there shall be present at least one program staff member who holds current certification in first aid based on a first aid course appropriate for all of the children served at the child care center or group child care home. Such certification shall be based on a hands-on demonstration of the individual�s ability to provide first aid. Such program staff member shall respond to all situations requiring first aid. Written verification of such training shall be kept on file.

Rule 19a-79-4a(f)(2).

Consultants: An education consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice and support regarding the educational content and practice of the program. A person needs to apply for approval to be an education consultant. Program staff shall not serve as education consultants for programs in which they provide direct care or direct program supervision in a non-consultative role; or in a program with the same operator as a program in which they provide direct care or direct program supervision in a non-consultative role. Specific duties of the education consultant shall include, but not be limited to making, at a minimum, annual site visits to the facility, reviewing daily plans, curriculum documents, and educational policies for the developmental and age appropriate practices, observing program staff interactions, use of materials and equipment, implementation of plans and approaches to classroom management; and providing feedback on documentation review and classroom observations to the director and head teacher. A health consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice regarding the health of the children and the health program. Specific duties of the health consultant shall include, but not be limited to making, at a minimum, quarterly site visits to facilities that serve children three years of age and older; or for group child care homes, facilities that operate no more than three hours per day, or facilities that enroll only school age children, semi-annual site visits. Facilities that are closed during the summer months may omit the summer quarterly visit. Site visits shall be made by the health consultant during customary business hours when the children are present at the facility. Specific duties include, but are not limited to reviewing health and immunization records of children and program staff, reviewing the contents, storage and plan for maintenance of first aid kits, observing the indoor and outdoor environments for health and safety, observing children�s general health and development, observing diaper changing and toileting areas and diaper changing, toileting and hand washing procedures, reviewing the policies, procedures and required documentation for the administration of medications, including petitions for special medication authorizations needed for programs that administer medication, assisting in the review of individual care plans for children with special health care needs or children with disabilities, as needed; and quarterly review of all injury, illness, incident and accident reports. A social service consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice regarding the emotional needs, program staff support and the social service program. A registered dietitian consultant shall be available to the operator and program staff for advice regarding nutrition and food service for those programs that prepare or plan meals. A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. Consultative service shall include, but not be limited to an annual review of written policies, plans and procedures that relate to the services provided by the consultant, availability by telecommunication for advice regarding problems, availability, in person, of the consultant to the program, consulting with administration and program staff about specific problems, acting as a resource person to program staff and the parent(s) to include coordinating services and assisting families and program staff in identifying necessary resources, and seeking and supporting the collaboration of multiple consultants serving the program. The activities and observations required by each consultant shall be documented in a consultation log that is kept on file at the facility for two years.

Rule 19a-79-4a(i)(1-2)(H), (F).

Proper Refrigeration -41 degrees: There shall be proper refrigeration of no more than forty-one (41) degrees Fahrenheit for perishable foods in all child care centers and group child care homes and on field trips.

Rule 19a-79-6a(a)(3).

Licensed premises-clean, good repair, hazard free-maintenance program: For programs serving children younger than school age, the building, equipment and furnishings shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.

Rule 19a-79-7a(c)(2).

Water supply- water testing: Water supply, food service and sewage disposal facilities shall be adequate, safe and in compliance with all applicable sections of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies. Water from at least one drinking fountain or drinking, beverage and food preparation sink, and from two such sources if the facility has more than one, shall be tested every two years for lead content. The water sample shall have been standing in plumbing pipes at least six hours and the results shall be submitted to the local director of health and kept on file at the facility. New child care facilities shall submit lead test results from each drinking, beverage and food preparation sink to the Office with the facility�s initial application. Whenever water is obtained from other than a public water system that is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, it shall be of a safe and sanitary quality and tested every two years for bacterial and chemical quality and the results submitted to the local director of health. The water analysis shall include tests for bacteria, physical parameters (color, odor, turbidity, pH), and sanitary chemicals (nitrogen series, chloride, hardness, iron, manganese and sodium). Additional tests may be required as deemed necessary by the Office. Drinking water shall be available and accessible to children at all times including at all meals and snacks.

Rule 19a-79-7a(c)(5)(A-C).

Toileting: Where toilets and sinks are shared by children and adults, a written policy shall be developed and implemented that requires supervision of children when using the shared toilet room. Programs shall provide changing and sanitary facilities appropriate to meet the individual needs of children who are enrolled at the facility who need assistance with toileting or who are not independent with toileting. Facilities using potty chairs in addition to the required toilets shall ensure that they are of a nonporous, synthetic product, and emptied into the toilet, cleaned and disinfected after each individual use. For programs serving children under five years of age there shall be at least one toilet and one sink with hot and cold running water for every sixteen children, or fraction thereof. For programs serving only school age children, there shall be at least one toilet and one sink with running water for every twenty-five children, or fraction thereof. Toilet facilities shall be designed in such a manner to allow individual privacy. Sinks with running water shall be readily accessible to the toilet rooms if not located within them. Toilet tissue, soap, a mechanism for individual hand drying and a waste receptacle shall be accessible to the toilets and sinks. Staff, program staff, and children shall wash their hands with soap and water after toileting. Each toilet and sink shall be located at the facility or licensed premises, as applicable, of the child care center or group child care home. Each toilet room shall be well lighted and ventilated to the outside atmosphere. In child care centers constructed or renovated after January 1, 1994, all toilet facilities shall be mechanically ventilated to the outside atmosphere.

Rule 19a-79-7a(d)(10)(A-H).

Potentially hazardous substances, materials � labeled, inaccessible to children: Potentially hazardous substances and materials in the child care centers and group child care homes shall be stored in a labeled container identifying the exact contents and dilutions, used according to the manufacturer�s instructions and for the intended purpose, handled in a safe manner and inaccessible to children.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(10).

Walls/ceilings/floors/rugs-clean, good repair: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable. Rugs, if used, shall not present a tripping or slipping hazard.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(5).

Non-Prescription Topical Medications: The written permission of the parent(s) shall be required prior to the administration of the nonprescription topical medication shall be kept on file at the facility for each child administered a nonprescription topical medication. The parent(s) shall be immediately notified of any medication error, and notified of such error in writing not more than seventy two hours after the medication error occurred, and such medication error shall be documented in the child�s record. The medication shall be stored in the original container and shall contain the following information on the container or packaging indicating the individual child�s name; the name of the medication; and directions for the medication�s administration. The medication shall be stored away from food and inaccessible to children. Any unused portion of the medication shall be returned to the parent(s). Any expired medication shall be destroyed in a safe manner or returned to the parent.

Rule 19a-79-9a(a)(2-3).

Medication Trainings: Prior to the administration of any medication, the director(s), head teacher(s), program staff or group child care home provider(s) who are responsible for administering the medications shall first be trained by a pharmacist, physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse or registered nurse in the methods of administration of medications and shall receive written approval from the trainer which indicates that the trainee has successfully completed a training program as required herein. In addition to being trained in the methods of medication administration, such trained staff may administer injectable medications by a premeasured, commercially prepared auto-injector used to treat allergic reactions or other type of injectable medication and rectal medications, only after he or she has successfully completed a training program on the administration of such type of medication. After completing such training, the director, head teacher, program staff or group child care home provider shall annually have his or her skills and competency in the administration of such medication reviewed and/or validated in accordance with the regulations. The facility shall have program staff trained in the use such medications on site during all hours when a child who has orders to receive such medication is on-site. Upon completion of the required training program or the review and validation of the required training, the written training approval for staff shall be on file at the facility. Approval for the administration of oral, topical, inhalant medications, rectal medications and injectable medications other than by a premeasured commercially prepared auto-injector shall remain valid for three years. Approval for the administration of injectable medications by a premeasured commercially prepared auto-injector shall be valid for one year. A copy of the approval shall be on file at the facility for a period of three years and shall be available to Office staff upon request. The operator shall ensure that the trainer provides the trainee with an outline of the curriculum content which verifies that all mandated requirements have been included in the training program. A copy of said outline shall be on file at the facility for a period of three years for Office review. The Office may require at any time that the operator obtain the full curriculum from the trainer for review by the Office.

Rule 19a-79-9a(b)(1)(A-F)-(2)(A-C).

Electrical safety- outlets inaccessible/covered: The use and maintenance of electrical cords, appliances and adaptors shall be in full compliance with state codes. For programs serving children less than school age, electrical outlets shall be made inaccessible by use of a safety device or covering that prevents access to the receptacle opening.

Rule 19a-79-7a(d)(9). From a complaint.

Walls/ceilings/floors/rugs-clean, good repair: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(5). From a complaint.

Sturdy/Safety Rail/Nonporous/Exclusive Use: The diapering area shall be an elevated sturdy table or counter equipped with a safety rail. Infants and toddlers shall be diapered at a diapering area used only for this purpose and located in the program area. Each diapering area shall have a non-porous surface and be kept in good repair.

Rule 19a-79-10(e)(1)(2)(3).

Designated Head Teacher/60%: A designated head teacher shall be on site for sixty percent (60%) of the time the child care center or group child care home is in operation on a weekly basis. A program providing care for one (1) or more hours between the hours of ten (10) P.M. and five (5) A.M. shall have a person on the licensed premises designated as the person in charge who shall meet the head teacher qualifications.

Rule 19a-79-4a(c)(1), 19a-79-11(f)&/or19a-79-12(b)(1).

Consultant Agreements/Contracts: A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. These services shall include an early childhood educational consultant, a health consultant, a dentist or dental hygienist consultant, a social service consultant, and a registered dietitian consultant for those programs that serve meals. Consultative services shall include annual review of written policies, plans and procedures, annual review of education programs, availability by telecommunication for advice regarding problems, availability, in person of the consultant to the program, consulting with administration and staff about specific problems, and acting as a resource person to staff and the parents.

Rule 19a-79-4a(h)(1) and/or 19a-79-4a(h)(2).

Logs/Visits Documented: A written plan for consultation services shall be developed, signed annually by the consultant and implemented. Consultative services shall include documenting the activities and observations in a consultation log that is kept on file at the facility for two years.

Rule 19a-79-4a(h)(2)(G).

Individual Care Plan (Signed by Parent/Staff): The operator of a child care center or group child care home is responsible for maintaining on the licensed premises a current record for each child enrolled. A copy of the record shall be available and provided upon request to the Office of Early Childhood, the child’s parent(s) and the local health director. It shall include an individual plan of care for any child with special health care needs or disabilities, developed with the child’s parent(s) and health care provider and updated, as necessary.

Rule 19a-79-5a(a)(2)(E).

License Premise Clean/Good Repair/Safe: The building, equipment and services shall be maintained in a good state of repair. A maintenance program shall be established that ensures that the interior, exterior and grounds of the building are maintained, kept clean and orderly, free from accumulations of refuse, dampness, stagnant water, dilapidated structures and other health and safety hazards.

Rule 19a-79-6a and/or 19a-79-7a.

Potentially Hazardous Substances Locked: Potentially hazardous substances in the child care centers and group child care homes shall be stored in a separate locked area.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(10).

Walls/Ceilings/Floors/Rugs: Clean/Good Repair: Walls, ceilings, floors and rugs shall be maintained in a state of good repair and be washable or easily cleanable.

Rule 19a-79-7a(e)(5).

Administration of Medications: Training Outline/Med Training: Upon completion of the required medication administration training program, the training approval and an outline of the curriculum content shall be on file at the facility.

Rule 19a-79-9a(b).