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Washington Administrative Code (Last Updated: November 23, 2016) |
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Title 170. Early Learning, Department of |
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Chapter 170-295. Minimum licensing requirements for child care centers. |
Section 170-295-2120. Are there special program requirements for infants and toddlers?
Latest version.
- (1) When you care for infants and toddlers you must:(a) Encourage them to handle and manipulate a variety of objects;(b) Provide a safe environment for climbing, moving and exploring;(c) Provide materials and opportunities for large and small muscle development;(d) Read and talk to them daily;(e) Provide daily indoor opportunities for freedom of movement outside their cribs, in an open, uncluttered space;(f) Place them in a prone (lying on the tummy) position part of the time when they are awake and staff are observing them;(g) Not leave them in car seats once they arrive at the center even if they are asleep; and(h) Not be left in playpens for extended periods of time excluding sleep time.(i) Talk to and interact with each infant and toddler often and encourage them to respond. Naming objects and describing care encourages language development;(j) Hold and cuddle infants and toddlers to encourage strong relationships; and(k) Respond to and investigate cries or other signs of distress immediately.(2) You must provide toys, objects and other play materials that:(a) Are cleanable;(b) Are nontoxic; and(c) Cannot cause a choking hazard for infants or toddlers.(3) You must not use baby walkers.