Section 408.1  Purpose

 

a)         The purpose of this Part is to prescribe the standards for licensure as a group day care home and to describe how to apply for a license.

 

b)         The licensing standards set forth in this Part are applicable to group day care homes as defined in the Child Care Act of 1969 (the Act) (IIl. Rev. Stat. 1987, ch. 23, pars. 2211 et seq.).

 

Section 408.5  Definitions

 

"Access to children" means an employee's job duties require that the employee be present in a licensed child care facility during the hours that children are present in the facility.  In addition, any person who is permitted to be alone outside the visual or auditory supervision of facility staff with children receiving care in a licensed child care facility is subject to the background check requirements of this Part.

 

"Accredited college or university" means a college or university that has been accredited by a regional or national institutional accrediting association recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or a non-governmental recognition counterpart.

 

"Adult" means a person who is 18 years of age or older.

 

"Applicant" means a person living in the residence to be licensed who will be the primary caregiver in the group day care home.

 

"Approved smoke detector" or "detector" means a smoke detector of the ionization or photoelectric type which complies with all the requirements of the rules and regulations of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. (Section 2 of the Facilities Requiring Smoke Detectors Act [425 ILCS 10])

 

"Assistant" or "child care assistant" means a person (whether a volunteer or an employee) who assists a licensed home caregiver in the operation of the group day care home.

 

"Attendance" means the total number of children under the age of 12 present at any one time.

 

"Authorized representative of the Department" means the licensing representative or any person acting on behalf of the Director of the Department.

 

"Background check" means:

 

a criminal history check via fingerprints of persons age 18 and over that are submitted to the Illinois State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for comparison to their criminal history records, as appropriate; and

 

a check of the Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS) and other state child protection systems, as appropriate, to determine whether an individual is currently alleged or has been indicated as a perpetrator of child abuse or neglect; and

 

a check of the Statewide Child Sex Offender Registry.

 

"Basement" means the story below the street floor where occupants must traverse a full set of stairs, 8 or more risers, to access the street floor.

 

"Behavior Support Plan" means a written, planned and culturally and linguistically appropriate schedule of action agreed upon by the program staff, parents/guardians, and qualified professional resources assigned:

 

to assist a child, a family, caregivers, programs or teachers, and directors on how the program reflects on, and modifies, the program, classroom, and learning environment practices; and

 

to address the identification of serious and repeated patterns of challenging behavior.

 

The behavior support plan must be fully implemented before initiating the program transition plan.

 

"CANTS" means the Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System operated and maintained by the Department.  This system is being replaced by the Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS).

 

"Caregiver" means the individual directly responsible for child care.

 

"Challenging behavior" means any serious and repeated pattern of behavior, or perception of behavior, that interferes with a child's ability to engage in developmentally appropriate self-regulation and cognitive and prosocial engagement with peers or adults.

 

"Children with special needs" means children who exhibit one or more of the following characteristics, confirmed by clinical evaluation:

 

Visual impairment:  the child's visual impairment is such that development to full potential without special services cannot be achieved.

 

Hearing impairment:  the child's residual hearing is not sufficient to enable him or her to understand the spoken word and to develop language, thus causing extreme deprivation in learning and communication, or a hearing loss is exhibited that prevents full awareness of environmental sounds and spoken language, limiting normal language acquisition and learning.

 

Physical or health impairment:  the child exhibits a physical or health impairment that requires adaptation of the physical plant.

 

Speech and/or language impairment:  the child exhibits deviations of speech and/or language processes that are outside the range of acceptable variation within a given environment and prevent full social development.

 

Learning disability:  the child exhibits one or more deficits in the essential processes of perception, conceptualization, language, memory, attention, impulse control or motor function.

 

Behavioral disability:  the child exhibits an affective disability and/or maladaptive behavior that significantly interferes with learning and/or social functioning.

 

Mental impairment:  the child's intellectual development, mental capacity, and/or adaptive behavior are markedly delayed.  Such mental impairment may be mild, moderate, severe or profound.

 

"Conviction" means a judgment of conviction or sentence entered upon a plea of guilty or upon a verdict or finding of guilty of an offense, rendered by a legally constituted jury or by a court of competent jurisdiction authorized to try the case without a jury.  (Section 2-5 of the Criminal Code of 1961 [720 ILCS 5])

 

"Corporal punishment" means hitting, spanking, swatting, beating, shaking, pinching, excessive exercise, exposure to extreme temperatures, and other measures that produce physical pain.

 

"Cot" means a comfortable, safe and child-sized alternative bed made of resilient, fire retardant, sanitizable fabric that is on legs or otherwise above the floor and can be stored to allow for air flow.

 

"Department" means the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.  (Section 2.18 of the Child Care Act of 1969 [225 ILCS 10])

 

"Department of Public Health" or "DPH" means the Illinois Department of Public Health.

 

"Discipline" means the process of helping children to develop inner controls so that they can manage their own behavior in socially acceptable ways.

 

"Disinfect" means to eliminate virtually all germs from inanimate surfaces through the use of chemicals or physical agents (e.g., heat).  In the child care environment, a solution of ¼ cup household liquid chlorine bleach added to one gallon of water (or one tablespoon bleach to one quart of water) and prepared fresh daily is an effective disinfectant for environmental surfaces and other objects.  A weaker solution of 1 tablespoon bleach to 1 gallon of cool water is effective for use on toys, eating utensils, etc.  Commercial products may also be used.

 

"Extended capacity" means an addition of 4 school age children who may be accepted in accordance with Section 408.65(c).  This allows the maximum capacity in a group day care home to reach 16.

 

"Family home" or "family residence" means the location or portion of a location where the applicant and his or her family reside, and may include basements and attics.  It does not include other structures that are separate from the home but are considered part of the overall premises, such as adjacent apartments, unattached basements in multi-unit buildings, unattached garages, and other unattached buildings.

 

"Firearm" means any device, by whatever name known, that is designed to expel a projectile or projectiles by the action of an explosion, expansion of gas or escape of gas; excluding, however:

 

any pneumatic gun, spring gun, paint ball gun, or BB gun that expels a single globular projectile not exceeding .18 inch in diameter or that has a maximum muzzle velocity of less than 700 feet per second;

 

any pneumatic gun, spring gun, paint ball gun, or BB gun that expels breakable paint balls containing washable marking colors;

 

any device used exclusively for signaling or safety and required or recommended by the United States Coast Guard or the Interstate Commerce Commission;

 

any device used exclusively for the firing of stud cartridges, explosive rivets or similar industrial ammunition; and

 

an antique firearm (other than a machine gun) that, although designed as a weapon, the Department of State Police finds by reason of the date of its manufacture, value, design, and other characteristics is primarily a collector's item and is not likely to be used as a weapon. [430 ILCS 65/1.1]

 

"Gateways to Opportunity Registry" means a program administered by the Department of Human Services to track and maintain education and training credentials of primary caregivers and assistants that allows them to establish a profile in the registry of their educational and training development.

 

"Ground level" means that a child can step directly from the exit onto the ground, a sidewalk, a patio, or any other surface that is not above or below the ground.

 

"Group day care home" means a family home which receives more than 3 up to 16 children for less than 24 hours per day.  The number counted includes the family's natural, foster, or adopted children and all other persons under the age of 12.  (Section 2.20 of the Child Care Act of 1969)

 

"Guardian" means the guardian of the person of a minor.  (Section 2.03 of the Child Care Act of 1969)

 

"Infant" means a child through 12 months of age.

 

"Initial background check" means fingerprints have been obtained for a criminal history check, and the individual has cleared a check of the Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS) and the Illinois Sex Offender Registry.

 

"License" means a document issued by the Department that authorizes child care facilities to operate in accordance with applicable standards and the provisions of the Child Care Act of 1969.

 

"License applicant", for purposes of background checks, means the operator or persons with direct responsibility for daily operation of the facility to be licensed. (Section 4.4 of the Child Care Act of 1969)

 

"License study" means the review of an application for license, on-site visits, interviews, and the collection and review of supporting documents to determine compliance with the Child Care Act of 1969 and the standards prescribed by this Part.

 

"Licensed capacity" means the number of children the Department has determined the group day care home can care for at any one time, in addition to any children living in the home who are under the age of 12 years.  Children age 12 and over on the premises are not considered in determining licensed capacity.

 

"Licensing representative" means a person authorized by the Department under Section 5 of the Child Care Act of 1969 to examine facilities for licensure.

 

"Licensing year", often called the anniversary year, means the period of time from the date a group day care home license is issued until the same date of the following year.

 

"Member of the household" means a person who resides in a family home as evidenced by factors including, but not limited to, maintaining clothing and personal effects at the household address, or receiving mail at the household address, or using identification with the household address.

 

"Minor traffic violation" means a traffic violation under the laws of the State of Illinois or any municipal authority therein or another state or municipal authority that is punishable solely as a petty offense.  (See Section 6-601 of the Illinois Driver Licensing Law [625 ILCS 5/Ch. 6].)

 

"Mitigation" means those activities or processes undertaken to reduce the level of lead in water below 2.01 ppb (parts per billion).

 

"Mitigation plan" means a written document prepared by a license applicant or licensee that identifies drinking water sources that have tested at or above 2.01 ppb for lead and the strategies and interim measures the applicant/licensee will take to reduce the lead level to below 2.01 ppb.

 

"Parent" or "Parents", as used in this Part, means those persons assuming legal responsibility for care and protection of the child on a 24-hour basis; includes guardian or legal custodian.

 

"Permit" means a one-time only document issued by the Department of Children and Family Services for a 6-month period to allow the individuals to become eligible for a license.

 

"Persons subject to background checks" means:

 

the operators of the child care facility;

 

all current and conditional employees of the child care facility;

 

any person who is used to replace or supplement staff; and

 

any person who has access to children, as defined in this Section.

 

If the child care facility operates in a family home, the license applicants and all members of the household age 13 and over are subject to background checks, as appropriate, even if these members of the household are not usually present in the home during the hours the child care facility is in operation.

 

"Physician" means a person licensed to practice medicine in the State of Illinois or a contiguous state.

 

"Premises" means the location of the group day care home wherein the family resides and includes the attached yard, garage, basement and any other outbuildings.

 

"Preschool age" means children under 5 years of age and children 5 years old who do not attend full day kindergarten.

 

"Program" means all activities provided for the children during their hours of attendance in the group day care home.

 

"Program Transition Plan" means an individualized, written, and culturally and linguistically appropriate document developed by the departing and receiving early childhood programs, parents or primary caregivers, and qualified professional resources detailing tasks and individual responsibilities required to prepare for and then execute the child's move from the current program to a more appropriate arrangement with as little negative impact and disruption as possible.

 

"Protected exit from a basement" means an exit that is separated from the remainder of the group day care home by barriers (such as walls, floors, or solid doors) providing one-hour fire resistance.  The separation must be designed to limit the spread of fire and restrict the movement of smoke.

 

"Qualified professional" means an individual with a recognized title such as, but not limited to, a child's health provider, early childhood mental health consultant, licensed clinical social worker, speech pathologist, or behavioral therapist. This individual should have expertise in early childhood education practices, children's behaviors, inclusion, applied behavioral analysis, infant/early childhood mental health, or the impact of trauma.

 

"Repeated pattern of challenging behavior" means behaviors that do not respond to repeated developmentally appropriate practice interventions and that result in a disrupted learning environment for other children enrolled in the program, such as, but not limited to, extreme tantrums, physical and verbal aggression, property destruction, self-injury, injury to others, or withdrawal.

 

"Resource personnel" means physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, speech therapists, physical and occupational therapists, educators and other technical and professional persons whose expertise is utilized in providing specialized services to children with special needs.

 

"SACWIS" means the Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System operated by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services that is replacing the Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System (CANTS).

 

"School age" means children 6 to 12 years of age and 5 year olds who are in full-day kindergarten.

 

"Serious safety threat" is a behavior that jeopardizes the physical safety of the child and/or his/her classmates or staff.

 

"Special use areas" means areas of the home that may not be included in the measurement of the area used for child care.  Special use areas include, but are not limited to, laundry rooms, furnace rooms, bathrooms, hazardous areas, and areas off-limits to children.

 

"Story" means that level of a building included between the upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of the floor or roof next above.

 

"Street floor" means a story or floor level accessible from the street or from outside a building at ground level, with the floor level at the main entrance located not more than 4 risers above or below the ground level and arranged and utilized to qualify as the main floor.

 

"Substantiated violation" means that the licensing representative has determined, during a licensing complaint investigation or a monitoring or renewal visit, that the licensee has violated a licensing standard of this Part or the Child Care Act.

 

"Swimming pool" means any natural or artificial basin of water intended for public swimming or recreational bathing which exceeds 2'6" in depth as specified in the Illinois Swimming Pool and Bathing Beach Act and Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 820). The term includes bathing beaches and pools at private clubs, health clubs, or private residences when used for children enrolled in a child care facility.

 

"Temporary removals" means practices that involve removing the child from regular participation in the program as a result of a challenging behavior.  A temporary removal should be developmentally appropriate and may only be used as a last resort if there is a serious safety threat that cannot be reduced or eliminated by the provision of reasonable modifications.  The program must help the child return to full participation in a group setting as soon as safety allows.

 

"Wading pool" means any natural or artificial basin of water less than 2'6" in depth that is intended for recreational bathing, water play or similar activity. The term includes recessed areas less than 2'6" in depth in swimming pools that are designated primarily for children.

 

"Water profile" means a building's water heater, source of water, and water supply lines.

 

"Water source" means any faucet used to obtain water for drinking or food preparation for day care operations. Water sources include, but are not limited to, sinks, bathtubs, hoses, drinking fountains, bubblers, and refrigerator or freezer water or ice dispensers.

 

(Source:  Amended at 44 Ill. Reg. 16166, effective September 18, 2020)

 

Section 408.7  Effective Date of Standards (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 21 Ill. Reg. 4563, effective April 1, 1997)

 

Section 408.10  Application for License

 

a)         A complete application shall be filed with the Department of Children and Family Services on forms prescribed and provided by the Department.

 

b)         Contents of Application

 

1)         A complete application shall include:

 

A)        a completed, signed and dated Application for Home License;

 

B)        a list of persons who will be working in the group day care home, including any substitutes and assistants, and members of the household age 13 and over;

 

C)        completed, signed and dated authorizations to conduct the background check for the applicant, each employee or person used to replace or supplement staff, and each member of the household age 13 and over;

 

D)        a completed, signed and dated Child Support Certification form;

 

E)        documentation that the applicant meets the qualifications for a caregiver in Section 408.45(e);

 

F)         the names, addresses and telephone numbers of at least 3 adults not related to the applicants, nor living in the household, who can attest to their character and suitability to provide child care;

 

G)        a written hazard protection plan identifying potential hazards within the home and outdoor area accessible to the children in care.  The written plan shall address the specific hazards and the adult supervision and physical means required to minimize the risks to children.  Conditions to be addressed include, but are not limited to, traffic, construction, bodies of water accessible to the children, open stairwells, and neighborhood dogs;

 

H)        a copy of high school diploma, equivalent certificate, or degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education or vocational institution;

 

I)         proof of membership in the Gateways to Opportunity Registry by the primary caregiver and assistants in the group day care home with all educational credentials and pre-service training entered into the Registry;

 

J)         for an initial application effective January 1, 2014 or later, proof that the home has been tested within the last 3 years for radon, as established by rules of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (32 Ill. Adm. Code 422) [225 ILCS 10/5.8]; and

 

K)        Lead testing results and mitigation plans when required by Section 408.30(i) and (j).

 

2)         The applicants shall have completed, not more than one year prior to the application date, at least 15 hours of pre-service training listed in Appendix G, which shall include the following topics for applicants and assistants who will care for infants:

 

A)        Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS);

 

B)        Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID);

 

C)        Safe sleep recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics;

 

D)        Shaken Baby Syndrome; and

 

E)        Department approved Mandated Reporter Training for all licensees and assistants regardless of the age of children in care.

 

3)         Applicants shall submit with their initial application a certificate of completion of lead safety training consisting of instruction in the following topics:

 

A)        Mitigation plans for test results of 2.01 ppb or above; and

 

B)        Impact of lead exposure.

 

c)         Fire Safety Inspection

 

1)         For initial applications of group day care homes in multi-housing units, or single family dwellings in which care will be provided on other than ground level, the Department shall request a fire safety inspection from the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM).  OSFM shall submit its written recommendation to the supervising agency of the group day care home and to the applicant;

 

2)         The fire safety inspection on single floor homes at ground level with no unusual or complex code considerations shall be completed following the list of items for fire safety inspection in Appendix I by a licensing representative trained by OSFM to conduct that fire prevention inspection;

 

3)         Prior to Department issuance of a permit or a license, the group day care home shall have written approval by OSFM or staff trained by OSFM, indicating the home meets fire safety requirements.

 

d)         Licensed group day care homes that fail to comply with all applicable local, municipal and State regulations may be prohibited from operating.

 

e)         The license shall be issued when the standards prescribed by this Part have been met.  Upon receipt of an application for a license, the Department shall conduct a license study to determine if the group day care home meets licensing standards.  The licensing study shall be in writing and shall be reviewed and signed by the licensing supervisor and the licensing representative performing the study.  A license may not be recommended without the receipt of at least three positive, written references, and a written study signed by the licensing representative and supervisor.  The applicant shall receive a copy of the results of the on-site compliance review upon request.

 

f)         New Applications

 

1)         A new application shall be filed when any of the following occurs:  

 

A)        When an applicant or licensee seeks to reapply for a license after it has been withdrawn, surrendered or denied and the applicant or licensee seeks to reapply;

 

B)        When there is a failure to submit a completed application within 14 days after a change of residence or location of the group day care home;

 

C)        When 12 months have elapsed and the applicant seeks to reapply for a license after:

 

i)          the Department has revoked or refused to renew a license;

 

ii)         the previous license has been surrendered with cause; or

 

iii)        The Department has refused to issue a full license to a permit holder.

 

2)         For the application to be considered timely and sufficient, a new application shall be completed, signed by the licensee and submitted to the supervising agency within 30 days after the following changes:

 

A)        When there is a change in the name of the licensee, the supervising agency or the legal status from a social security number to Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN); or

 

B)        When there is a change in the status of joint licensees, such as separation, divorce or death.

 

(Source:  Amended at 43 Ill. Reg. 265, effective January 1, 2019)

 

Section 408.15  Application for Renewal of License

 

a)         Application forms for license renewal shall be mailed to group day care home licensees by the Department 6 months prior to the expiration date of the license.

 

b)         The completed application shall be signed by the licensees and submitted to the Department at least 3 months prior to expiration of the current license, in order to be considered timely and sufficient.

 

c)         When a licensed group day care home seeks to change its name or location, a new application reflecting the changes must be completed, signed by the licensees and submitted to the Department at least 30 days prior to the effective date of the changes for the application to be considered timely and sufficient.

 

d)         When a licensee has made timely and sufficient application for renewal of a license or a new license with reference to any activity of a continuing nature and the Department fails to render a decision on the application for renewal of the license prior to the expiration date of the license, the existing license shall continue in full force and effect for up to 30 days until the final Department decision has been made.  The Department may further extend the period in which such decision must be made in individual cases for up to 30 days, if good cause is shown.  [225 ILCS 10/5(d)]

 

e)         Prior to renewal, the licensee shall be current with the annual 15 hours of required training in accordance with Appendix G that, for applicants and assistants licensed to care for newborns and infants, shall include the following topics:

 

1)         Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and safe sleep recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics; and

 

2)         Shaken Baby Syndrome.

 

f)         At the time of license renewal, the supervising agency shall review the fire emergency, tornado/severe weather emergency, and hazard protection written plans. Any revision or enhancement shall be part of the licensing renewal process. Licensed homes that do not have a written hazard plan (see Section 408.10(b)(1)(G)) shall develop a plan and submit it to the supervising agency prior to renewal.

 

g)         Fire Safety Inspection

 

1)         Fire safety inspections of homes licensed for multi-housing units or single family dwelling in which care will be provided on other than grade level shall be completed by OSFM or its designee;

 

2)         Fire safety inspection of homes licensed for a single floor with no unusual or complex code considerations shall be completed by a licensing representative trained by OSFM;

 

3)         The fire safety inspection shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of Appendix I.

 

h)         Upon receipt of the application for license renewal, the Department shall conduct a license study in order to determine that the group day care home continues to meet licensing standards.  The licensing study shall be in writing and shall be reviewed and signed by the licensing supervisor and the licensing representative performing the study.  The licensees shall receive a copy of the results of the on-site compliance review upon request.

 

i)          For a renewal application effective January 1, 2014 or later, proof that the home has been tested within the last 3 years for radon as established by rules of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (32 Ill. Adm. Code 422) [225 ILCS 10/5.8].

 

(Source:  Amended at 40 Ill. Reg. 10808, effective July 29, 2016)

 

Section 408.20  Provisions Pertaining to the License

 

a)         The licensees shall be a primary caregiver or caregivers who reside in the family home and meet the requirements of this Part.  Further, the licensees shall be an individual, a man and woman married to each other or 2 persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption who reside in the family home.

 

b)         A group day care home license is valid for three years unless revoked by the Department or voluntarily surrendered by the licensee.

 

c)         The number and ages of children under age 12 cared for in the group day care home at any one time shall be in compliance with provisions in Section 408.65. Increases in the license capacity or the ages of children served shall be with written approval of the supervising agency.

 

d)         The age limits specified on the license shall be observed, unless the licensee has submitted a transition plan to the Department in accordance with Section 408.65(e) in order to keep members of a sibling group together, and the Department has approved the plan.

 

e)         Child care may be provided only in those areas specified on the license.

 

f)         The license is valid only for the family residence of the licensee and shall not be transferred to another person or other legal entity.

 

g)         The license shall not be valid for a name or an address other than the name and address on the license.

 

h)         No group day care home provider shall be licensed to provide care for more than 18 hours within a 24-hour period.

 

i)          The license shall be prominently displayed in the home at all times.

 

j)          There shall be no fee or charge for the license.

 

k)         By September 1, 2012, primary caregivers and assistants employed by the group day care home shall become members of and participate in the Gateways to Opportunity Registry, with all educational and training credentials entered into the registry verified in accordance with procedures and requirements adopted by the Department of Human Services.  Newly hired staff serving children shall become members of the Gateways to Opportunity Registry within 30 days after hire. 

 

(Source:  Amended at 36 Ill. Reg. 13105, effective August 15, 2012)

 

Section 408.25  Provisions Pertaining to Permits

 

a)         A permit shall not be issued until:  

 

1)         The application for licensure has been completed and signed by the applicants and all parts of the initial application requirements have been submitted to the Department;

 

2)         The background checks required by Section 408.40 have been completed and the results of the background check have been received for the operator of the group day care home;

 

3)         Character references have been requested regarding the primary caregivers, and at least 2 favorable references have been received;

 

4)         Medical reports as required in Section 408.35(f) have been received by the Department for all caregivers and assistants;

 

5)         The applicant who is the primary caregiver has been certified in first-aid, the Heimlich maneuver, and infant/child cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in accordance with Section 408.35(i);

 

6)         A personal visit to the home by a licensing representative has been completed.  The purpose of this visit is to determine compliance with all the licensing requirements except the requirements for remaining character references, medical examination reports, and well water tests compliance that may be complied with within the 6 month period covered by the permit.  However, when well water tests are required, applicants must agree to boil all drinking and cooking water and to provide only bottled water for children under 15 months of age until the test results are received;

 

7)         Proof of public liability insurance as required by Section 408.35(j) (such proof may consist of, but is not limited to, a copy of an insurance policy, binder or certificate; or a letter from the insurance carrier);

 

8)         Plan developed for emergency medical care as required by Section 408.70;

 

9)         Furnishings and equipment have been acquired for the number of children to be served during the 6 month permit period in accordance with Appendices C and D;

 

10)         Medical reports and character references are on file for employed staff at the home;

 

11)        A written fire safety inspection and approval has been completed in accordance with Section 408.10(c); and

 

12)         A written plan has been submitted to the licensing representative that indicates that requirements for a license shall be met within the 6 month permit period.

 

b)         A permit shall not be issued retroactively.

 

c)         A permit shall not be transferred to another person or other legal entity.

 

d)         A permit shall not be valid for a name or address different from the name and address shown on the issued permit.

 

e)         A permit shall not be renewable.

 

f)         A current permit shall be prominently displayed in the group day care home at all times while the home is operating under a permit.

 

g)         A license shall be issued at any time within the 6 month period covered by the permit provided that the group day care home achieves and maintains compliance with the Department's licensing standards.

 

h)         The group day care home shall adhere to the provisions or restrictions specified on the permit.

 

i)          There shall be no fee or charge for the permit.

 

(Source:  Amended at 40 Ill. Reg. 10808, effective July 29, 2016)

 

Section 408.30  General Requirements for Group Day Care Homes

 

a)         The physical facilities of the home, both indoors and outdoors, shall meet the following requirements for safety to children.

 

1)         The home shall have a first aid kit consisting of adhesive bandages, scissors, non-permeable gloves, Poison Control Center telephone number (1-800-222-1222 or 1-800-942-5969), thermometer, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, tweezers, first aid cream and mild soap.

 

2)         The kitchen shall be equipped with a readily accessible and operable fire extinguisher rated for Class A, B, and C fires and a flashlight in working order.

 

3)         All electrical outlets that are in areas used by the day care children shall have protective coverings.  There shall be no exposed or uninsulated wiring.

 

4)         The home shall be equipped with a minimum of one approved smoke detector in operating condition on every floor level, including basements and occupied attics. 

 

A)        A smoke detector in operating condition shall be within each room where day care children nap or sleep.  The detector shall be installed on the ceiling and at least 6 inches from any wall, or on a wall located between 4 and 6 inches from the ceiling.  In addition, there shall be at least one detector at the beginning and end of each separate corridor or hallway 200 feet or more in length in any occupied story.  

 

B)        In any facility constructed after December 31, 1987, or which undergoes substantial remodeling of its structure or wiring system after that date, the smoke detectors shall be permanently wired into the structure's AC power line, and, if more than one detector is required to be installed, the detectors shall be wired so that the activation of one detector will activate all the detectors in the facility unit.  For purposes of this subsection (a)(4), "substantial remodeling" represents more than 15 percent of the replacement cost of the group day care home. For homes that did not have wired installation of smoke detectors in each room prior to December 15, 2011, the Department may allow the installation of a battery-operated smoke detector in each room where children nap or sleep and deem the home to be in compliance.

 

C)        Compliance with any applicable federal, State or local law, rule or building code which requires the installation and maintenance of smoke detectors in a manner different from this Section, but providing a level of safety for occupants which is equal to or greater than that provided by this Section, shall be deemed to be compliance with this Section. (Section 2 of the Facilities Requiring Smoke Detectors Act [425 ILCS 10/2])

 

D)        For homes constructed after December 15, 2011, or that underwent substantial remodeling of structure or wiring systems after December 15, 2011, the smoke detectors shall be permanently wired into the structure's AC power line and, if more than one detector is required to be installed, the detectors shall be wired so that the activation of one detector will activate all the detectors in the facility unit.

 

5)         Carbon Monoxide Detector

 

A)        A home that has an attached garage and/or relies on combustion of fossil fuel for heating, ventilation, or hot water shall be equipped with a minimum of one approved carbon monoxide detector in operating condition within 15 feet of rooms where children nap or sleep.

 

B)        The carbon monoxide detector may be combined with smoke detector devices, provided that the combined unit complies with subsection (a)(4) and this subsection (a)(5).  [430 ILCS 135/10]

 

6)         The home and indoor space shall be maintained in good repair and shall provide a safe, comfortable environment for the children.

 

7)         A draft-free temperature of 65ºF to 75ºF shall be maintained during the winter months or heating season. For infants and toddlers, a temperature of 68ºF to 82ºF shall be maintained during the summer or air-conditioning months. When the temperature in the home exceeds 78ºF, measures shall be taken to cool the children. Temperatures shall be measured at least 3 feet above the floor.

 

8)         Fixed space heaters, fireplaces, radiators, and other heating sources in areas occupied by children shall be separated by partitions or a sturdy barrier to prevent contact.  Portable space heaters may not be used in a group day care home during the hours that child care is provided.

 

9)         A facility in which a wood-burning stove or fireplace has been installed and that is used during the hours that child care is provided, shall provide a written plan of how the stove or fireplace will be used and what actions will be taken to ensure the children's safety when in use.

 

10)         In one and 2 family dwellings, children under 30 months of age shall be housed and cared for on the second floor or below.  In other residential buildings, children under 30 months of age shall be housed and cared for only in areas in which OSFM states, in writing, that the combination of remote exits, fire detection, fire suppression, and/or automatic sprinkler systems render the residence safe for the care of infants and toddlers.

 

11)         No area accessible only by a ladder or folding stairs or through a trap door shall be used for sleeping or napping.

 

12)         When the basement area may be used for child care, 2 exits shall be provided.

 

A)        At least one exit shall be a basement exit via a door directly to the outside (without traversing any other level of the home) or a protected exit from a basement via a door or stairway that allows unobstructed travel directly to the outside of the building at street or ground level.  The stairway may not be more than 8 feet high. 

 

B)        A second exit may be a window.

 

i)          The window shall be operable from the inside without the use of tools and provide a clear opening not less than 20 inches in width, 24 inches in height, and 5.7 square feet in area. 

 

ii)         If the window is used as a second exit, the bottom of the window opening shall be no more than 44 inches above the floor. 

 

iii)        When the bottom of the window opening used as a second exit is more than 24 inches from the floor, there shall be a permanently affixed, sturdy ramp or stairs located below the window to allow speedy access in the event of an emergency. 

 

C)         If the basement area does not meet these existing requirements, the basement may be used for child care only with the prior written approval of OSFM.

 

13)         All walls and surfaces shall be maintained free from lead paint and chipped or peeling paint.

 

14)         Walls of rooms that children use shall be free of carpeting, fabric or plastic products.  Inflammable or combustible artwork attached to the walls shall not exceed 20% of any wall area.

 

15)         Furniture and equipment shall be kept in safe repair.

 

16)         First aid supplies, medication, cleaning materials, poisons, sharp scissors, plastic bags, sharp knives, cigarettes, matches, lighters, flammable liquids, and other hazardous materials shall be stored in places inaccessible to children. Hazardous items for infants and toddlers also include items that can cause choking, including but not limited to:  coins, balloons, safety pins, marbles, Styrofoam (trademark) and similar products, and sponge, soft rubber or soft plastic toys that can be bitten or broken into small pieces.

 

17)        Tools and gardening equipment shall be stored in locked cabinets, if possible, or in places inaccessible to all children.

 

18)        An operable telephone shall be available on the premises of the licensee.  The number of the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222 or 1-800-942-5969) and other emergency numbers shall be posted in an area that is readily available in an emergency.

 

19)        Free hanging cords on blinds, shades and drapes shall be tied or otherwise kept out of reach of children.

 

20)        Effective January 1, 2013, the home shall be tested for radon at least once every 3 years. The most current radon measurements shall be posted next to the license in the home, on a form provided by the Department containing the required informative statement from Section 5.8(d) of the Child Act of 1969 [225 ILCS 10].

 

b)         Escape routes from the group day care home shall be designed and maintained for swift and safe exiting in the event of an emergency.

 

1)         All corridors and escape routes from the group day care home shall be kept clear of obstructions.

 

2)         Dead-end paths or corridors within the group day care home shall be a maximum of 20 feet in length.

 

3)         All escape routes from the group day care home shall have operable lighting. The lighting shall be activated during any hours of operation when natural lighting is reduced to a level that prohibits visibility within the escape route.

 

4)         Bathroom doors in areas accessible to day care children shall allow staff to open the door from the outside of the bathroom if necessary.

 

5)         All closet doors shall be able to be opened from inside of the closet without the use of a key.

 

6)         There shall be no more than 2 releasing devices (door knobs, hand-operated deadbolts, thumb-turn locks, etc.) on any exit door or exit window.

 

7)         Exit doors and exit windows shall be operable without the use of a key, a tool or special knowledge to open the door from the inside and exit to the outside.

 

8)         Exit doors and exit windows shall be kept clear of equipment and debris at all times.

 

9)         The licensee shall hold monthly fire safety inspections of the group day care home.

 

10)         The licensee or staff in the home shall inspect the group day care home daily, prior to arrival of children, ensuring that escape routes are clear and that exit doors and exit windows are operable.

 

11)         A log of these monthly and daily inspections shall be maintained for at least one year, and shall be available for review by the licensing representative. The log shall reflect, at minimum, the date and time of each inspection and the full name of the person who conducted it.

 

c)         The licensee shall identify those areas in the home used for child care. The identified areas minus any special use areas shall be measured to calculate the square footage available for child care.  There shall be:

 

1)         A minimum of 35 square feet of floor space for each child in care; and

 

2)         An additional 20 square feet of floor space for each child under 30 months of age when the play area is the same as the sleep area.  However, if portable bedding is used for napping, then removed, the licensing representative shall approve the use of only 35 square feet of space for each child if the applicant/licensee has adequate storage space for the bedding materials and the bedding materials are removed before and after nap time.

 

d)         No person may smoke tobacco in any area of the group day care home in which day care services are being provided to children, while those children are present on the premises.  In addition, no person may smoke tobacco while providing transportation, in either an open or enclosed vehicle, to children who are receiving child care services.  Nothing in this subsection prohibits smoking in the home in the presence of a person's own children or in the presence of children to whom day care services are not then being provided.  [225 ILCS 10/5.5]

 

e)         Indoor space shall consist of a clean, comfortable environment for children.

 

1)         The group day care home shall be well-ventilated, free from observable hazards, properly lighted and heated, and free of fire hazards.

 

2)         The dwelling shall be kept clean, sanitary, and in good repair.

 

3)         There shall be provision for isolating a child who becomes ill or who is suspected of having a communicable, infectious or contagious disease.

 

4)         When used for child care, floors shall have protective covering such as, but not limited to, tile, carpet or linoleum.  Paint or sealer alone is not acceptable as a protective covering.

 

5)         When children under 30 months of age are in care, stairs leading to second levels, attics or basements shall be fitted with a sturdy gate, door or other barrier to prevent the children's access to the stairs without adult supervision.  Such a barrier shall be moveable enough so as not to impede evacuation, if necessary.

 

f)         The kitchen shall be clean, equipped for the preservation, storage, preparation and serving of food, and reasonably safe from hazards.

 

g)         Garbage and refuse containers used to discard diapering supplies, food products or disposable meal service supplies in areas for child care shall be disinfected daily unless plastic liners are used and disposed of daily.

 

h)         A safe and sanitary water supply shall be maintained.  If a private water supply is used instead of an approved public water supply, the applicant shall supply written records of current test results indicating the water supply is safe for drinking.  New test results must be provided prior to renewal of license.  If nitrate content exceeds 10 ppm, bottled water must be used for children under 15 months of age.

 

i)          Any group day care home currently licensed as of January 1, 2019 shall submit a survey provided by its day care licensing office that includes the construction date of the home.  The construction date for new day care home applicants is captured on the CFS 597-DCI form. 

 

j)          Any group day care home serving children under 6 years of age housed in a building constructed on or before January 1, 2000 shall be subject to lead in water testing by an IEPA laboratory or an IEPA-certified laboratory. A current list of certified laboratories can be obtained by contacting the Day Care Information Line at 1-877-746-0829, or can be accessed online through https://sunshine .dcfs.illinois.gov/Content/Licensing/LeadTesting.aspx.  Water sampling guidelines followed by certified laboratories may also be accessed through this link.  Test results and mitigation plans, when required, shall be submitted to the local licensing office within 120 days after notification of test results of 2.01 ppb or above.

 

1)         All lead in water test results (at, above or below 2.01 ppb) shall be posted in the home in a visible location and submitted by the applicant or licensee directly to his or her local licensing office;

 

2)         A mitigation plan shall be made available to parents and submitted to the local licensing office if test results indicate the presence of lead for each drinking water source with a result of 2.01 ppb or above and shall specify:

 

A)        Interim measures the applicant/licensee will take to ensure a safe drinking water supply during mitigation;

 

B)        Mitigation plan start and planned completion dates;

 

C)        Retesting dates, to include one test to occur no later than six months following the completion of the mitigation plan and a second test no later than one year after the completion of the mitigation plan;

 

D)        Each drinking water source that tested at 2.01 ppb or above and the planned mitigation activity for each source.  Examples of acceptable mitigation strategies include, but are not limited to, installation of mechanical flushing devices, replacement of lead-based lines or fixtures, or reverse osmosis filters installed at affected drinking water fixtures; and

 

E)        In extenuating circumstances in which mitigation cannot be readily undertaken (e.g., lead in the municipal water source), alternative external sources of water that tests below 2.01 ppb, such as bottled water with that test result, may be used subject to Department approval. 

 

3)         Following successful mitigation that results in two consecutive tests below 2.01 ppb, further testing is only required if there has been any change to the water profile of the building, including, but not limited to, replacement of the hot water heater, change in the water source, or change to, or replacement of, the water service lines.

 

4)         The Department reserves the right to require testing upon suspicion of the group day care home misrepresenting the construction date of the building, submitting false or altered testing results, failing to follow mitigation remedies, or committing other actions that may compromise the health and welfare of children. Any group day care home that fails to insure testing and reasonable mitigation action when necessary may be subject to enforcement action, up to and including revocation of, or refusal to renew, the license.

 

k)         Hot and cold running water shall be provided.  When children under age 10 or who are developmentally disabled are cared for, the maximum hot water temperature from all faucets of sinks designated for children washing hands shall be no more than 115° Fahrenheit.  Caregivers shall always test the hot water before allowing children less than 5 years of age to use the water.

 

l)          The group day care home shall provide one toilet for each 10 persons or portion thereof who are present during the hours the group day care home is in operation.  These 10 persons include caregivers, child care assistants, members of the household and children other than those under 30 months of age for whom a potty chair is provided.

 

m)        There shall be a minimum of 75 square feet of outdoor space per child for the total number of children using the area at any one time.  At least 25% of the required space shall be on the premises of the group day care home.  The remainder may be a public park, playground or other outdoor recreation area within walking distance (1000 feet) of the group day care home provided the caregiver or an adult assistant accompanies children to this outdoor area.

 

n)         There shall be safe outdoor space for active play.

 

1)         Space shall be provided for play in yards, nearby parks or playgrounds under adult supervision.

 

2)         Space shall be protected by physical means (e.g., fence, tree line, chairs, ropes, etc.) against all water hazards, including, but not limited to, pools, ponds, standing water, ornamental bodies of water, and retention ponds, regardless of the depth of the water, and by adult caregiver supervision at times when children in care are present.  Other hazards, such as, but not limited to, heavy traffic and construction, shall be inaccessible to children in care through a physical barrier and adult supervision. Further, outdoor space shall be partitioned or supervised in such a manner that young children are not endangered by the activities of older children.

 

3)         Play areas shall be well drained and safely maintained.

 

4)         All pieces of outdoor equipment used by children 5 years of age and younger on the day care premises that is purchased or installed on or after April 1, 2001 shall meet the following standards to guard against entrapment or situations that may cause strangulation.

 

A)        Openings in exercise rings shall be smaller than 4½ inches or larger than 9 inches in diameter.

 

B)        There shall be no openings in a play structure with a dimension between 3½ inches and 9 inches (except for exercise rings).  Side railings, stairs and other locations that a child might slip or climb through shall be checked for appropriate dimensions.

 

C)        Distances between vertical slats or poles, where used, must be 3½ inches or less (to prevent head entrapment).

 

D)        No opening shall form an angle of less than 55 degrees unless one leg of the angle is horizontal or slopes downward.

 

E)        No opening shall be between ⅜ inch and one inch in size (to prevent finger entrapment).

 

5)         The use of a trampoline by children in care is prohibited.

 

6)         In-ground swimming pools located in areas accessible to children shall be fenced.  The fence shall be at least 5 feet in height and secured by a locked gate.  Group day care homes that are licensed or have a permit on April 1, 2001 and are in compliance with the requirement for a 3½ foot fence shall be considered in compliance with the fence requirement.

 

7)         All above-ground pools shall have non-climbable sidewalls that are at least 4 feet high or shall be enclosed with a 5 foot fence that is at least 36 inches away from the pool's side wall and secured with a locked gate. When the pool is not in use, steps shall be removed from the pool or otherwise protected to insure the pool cannot be accessed.  Group day care homes that are licensed or have a permit on April 1, 2001 and are in compliance with the requirement for a 3½ foot fence shall be considered in compliance with the fence requirement.

 

8)         Portable wading pools shall be emptied daily and disinfected before being air-dried.

 

9)         All hot tubs shall have securely locked covers or otherwise be inaccessible to children.

 

10)         Children shall be closely supervised by the caregiver when public parks or playgrounds are used for play, during play and while traveling to and from the area.

 

11)         Supervision shall be provided during outdoor play by caregivers who meet the requirements of Section 408.45.

 

o)         A caregiver who relies upon outdoor space shared with other residents in a multiple family dwelling shall have a written agreement with the other residents or the owners of the outdoor area authorizing the use of the space by the group day care home and the children cared for.

 

p)         Insect and rodent control shall be maintained.

 

1)         All outside doors except those with operable self-closing devices, operable windows, and other openings used for ventilation shall be screened.

 

2)         Chemicals for insect and rodent control shall be applied in minimum amounts and shall not be used when children are present.  Over-the-counter products may be used only according to package instructions.  Commercial chemicals, if used, shall be applied by a licensed pest control operator and shall meet all standards of the Department of Public Health (Structural Pest Control Code, 77 Ill. Adm. Code 830).  A record of any pesticides used shall be maintained.

 

q)         Healthy household pets that present no danger to children are permitted.

 

1)         A licensed veterinarian shall certify that the animals are free of diseases that could endanger the children's health and that dogs and cats have been inoculated for rabies.

 

2)         If certification is not available, animals shall be confined at all times in an area inaccessible to children.

 

3)         There shall be careful supervision of children who are permitted to handle and care for the animals.

 

4)         Immediate treatment shall be available to any child who is bitten or scratched by an animal.

 

5)         The presence of monkeys, ferrets, turtles, iguanas, psittacine birds (birds of the parrot family) or any wild or dangerous animal is prohibited in areas accessible to children during the hours the group day care home is in operation.  Wild and dangerous animals include, but are not limited to, venomous and constricting snakes, undomesticated cats and dogs, raccoons, and other animals determined to be dangerous by local public health authorities.

 

r)          The Department shall request that the Illinois Department of Public Health or a local health department authorized by it and/or the Office of the State Fire Marshal or the local fire department authorized by it inspect the group day care home and its premises whenever the Department has reason to believe that conditions in the home or its premises pose potential health or safety hazards to the children cared for in the home.

 

s)         Written emergency preparedness plans shall be developed and shall specify the actions to be taken in the event of a fire, tornado or other emergency.  All caregivers and assistants in the group day care home shall be familiar with these plans. The emergency preparedness plans shall include, but are not limited to:

 

1)         A fire evacuation plan identifying exits from each area used for child care and specifying the evacuation route. 

 

2)         A fire evacuation plan identifying a safe assembly area outside of the home.  It shall also identify a nearby indoor location for post-evacuation holding if needed.

 

3)         A fire evacuation plan requiring that the home be evacuated immediately and the children's safety insured before calling the local emergency number 911 or attempting to combat the fire.

 

4)         Monthly fire drills to  be conducted for the purpose of removing children from the group day care home as quickly as possible during an emergency. 

 

5)         Monthly tornado drills to be conducted for the purpose of getting children accustomed to moving to a position of safety in event of a tornado.  The alphabetic card file required by Section 408.120(a)(2) shall accompany the caregiver during the drills.

 

6)         A tornado plan specifying actions that will be taken in the event of tornado or other severe weather warning, including designation of those areas of the group day care home to be used as safe spots.

 

7)         Specific procedures for notifying parents if evacuation is necessary and how they will be reunited with their children.

 

8)         Specific procedures for evacuating children who are less than 30 months of age and/or for evacuating special needs children, when applicable.

 

t)          Fire and tornado drills shall be documented and that documentation shall be maintained on file for a period of 3 years.  The licensee shall hold monthly fire safety inspections of the group day care home and maintain documentation on file for a period of 1 year.

 

u)         Handguns are prohibited on the premises of the group day care home except in the possession of peace officers or other adults who must possess a handgun as a condition of employment and who reside in the group day care home.  The licensee shall post a "no firearms" sign, as described in Section 65(d) of the Firearm Concealed Carry Act [430 ILCS 66/65(d)] in a visible location where parents pick up children.

 

v)         Any firearm, other than a handgun in the possession of a peace officer or other person as provided in subsection (s), shall be kept in a disassembled state, without ammunition, in locked storage in a closet, cabinet, or other locked storage facility inaccessible to children. 

 

1)         Ammunition for such firearms shall be kept in locked storage separate from that of the disassembled firearms, inaccessible to children.

 

2)         The operator of the group home shall notify the parents or guardian of any child accepted for care that firearms and ammunition are stored on the premises.  The operator shall also notify the parents or guardian that such firearms and ammunition are in locked storage inaccessible to children. (Section 7 of the Child Care Act of 1969 [225 ILCS 10/7])  The notification need not disclose the location where the firearms and ammunition are stored. 

 

w)        A group day care home operator relying upon a cooperative or lending arrangement to meet the equipment requirements of this Part shall provide a copy of a written agreement specifying which equipment required by this Part is covered by the agreement.  Further, the operator shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Department that the equipment covered by the agreement is both available and utilized by the group day care home as required by this Part.

 

x)         Operation of other business on the premises must not interfere with the care of children.

 

y)         A group day care home may not house bedridden or chronically ill persons except by permission of the Department.  The Department shall grant such permission unless the person has a reportable contagious or communicable disease or requires care that adversely affects the ability of the caregiver to supervise children.

 

z)         A group day care home shall have certification that all cribs used by the group home meet or exceed the federal safety standards in 16 CFR 1219 or 1220 (2011).  This certification from the manufacturer shall be available for inspection by the licensing representative.  In the absence of a manufacturer's certificate, proof that the crib was manufactured on or after June 28, 2011 will meet the required standard.

 

(Source:  Amended at 43 Ill. Reg. 265, effective January 1, 2019)

 

Section 408.35  General Requirements for Group Day Care Home Family

 

a)         Each person subject to background checks, as defined in Section 408.5, shall authorize the background check required by 89 Ill. Adm. Code 385 (Background Checks) and be cleared in accordance with the requirements of Part 385.

 

b)         When notified by the Department that an employee, member of the household or other person in frequent contact with children at the facility is the subject of a formal investigation for child abuse or neglect pursuant to the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act [325 ILCS 5], the licensee shall take reasonable action to insure that the employee or other person is restricted from contact with children whose care has been entrusted to the facility during the pending investigation.  Such reasonable action includes, but is not limited to, barring or removing the person from the facility or assuring that another adult is always present when the subject of the investigation is in contact with children.

 

c)         The licensee shall be present in the home when children are in attendance unless a qualified substitute caregiver, per Section 408.55, is present.

 

d)         Licensees and other adult members of the household in contact with group day care children shall be stable, law abiding, responsible, mature individuals.

 

e)         Members of the household who have contact with the children in care shall treat them with respect, courtesy, and patience.

 

f)         The caregivers and all members of the household shall provide medical evidence that they are free of communicable disease that may be transmitted while providing child care; and, in the case of caregivers, that they are free of physical or mental conditions that could interfere with child care responsibilities.  The medical report for the caregivers shall be valid for 3 years.

 

g)         Caregivers and members of the household shall have a tuberculin skin test administered by the Mantoux method in accordance with the rules of the Department of Public Health (77 Ill. Adm. Code 690.720).

 

h)         Should the caregivers or any member of the household be diagnosed as having a communicable disease for which isolation is required by the Department of Public Health (IDPH) or local health department, the group day care home shall not provide child care until notified by the public health agency that the infectious period has elapsed and that child care may resume. Further, if a child care assistant or substitute who does not reside in the group day care home has been diagnosed as having a communicable disease for which isolation is required, that person shall be barred from the home until the presence of such person is authorized by the IDPH or the local health department.

 

i)          During  hours of operation of the group day care home, there shall be at least one person on the premises certified in first aid, the Heimlich maneuver and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association or other entity approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health.  CPR certification shall be for the age range of children in care.  The caregivers shall have on file current certificates attesting to the training.

 

j)          The operators of the group day care home shall carry public liability insurance in the single limit minimum amount of $100,000 per occurrence.

 

k)         Persons, including members of the household, counted in the staff-to-child ratio required by Section 408.65 must be present, awake and free from responsibilities other than those directly related to the care and supervision of children when children are present, except as allowed by Section 408.115 for night care.  Responsibilities that are directly related to the care and supervision of children may include light housekeeping to maintain the areas wherein child care is provided.

 

l)          Caregivers, assistants and other persons shall not consume alcohol in the presence of children.  A caregiver or child care assistant who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or other drug shall not have responsibility of the care of children.

 

m)        If the group day care home receives children for night-time care, the caregiver may sleep while children are present if the caregiver and the children sleep on the same floor (level) of the residence and the children's bedrooms are within hearing distance of the caregiver's bedroom.

 

n)         No person shall smoke tobacco in the group day care home while services are being provided to children. In addition, no person shall smoke tobacco while providing transportation, in either an open or enclosed motor vehicle, to children who are receiving child care services (see PA 95-17 and 225 ILCS 10/5.5).

 

o)         The licensee shall successfully complete a Department approved basic course of 6 or more clock hours in providing care to children with disabilities.  Refer to Appendix G for basic course requirements.  The licensee shall have on file a certificate attesting to the successful completion of the training.

 

1)         Current license holders shall complete this training within 36 months from November 15, 2003.

 

2)         New licensees shall complete this training within 36 months from the issue date of the initial license.

 

3)         A licensee who has completed training prior to November 15, 2003

may have that training approved as meeting the provisions of this Section.  A certificate of training completion and a description of the course content must be submitted to the Department for approval.

 

p)         Any children under age 12 living in the home who are receiving home schooling shall be counted in the maximum of 12 children in Section 408.65(a) and (b), unless another parent or caregiver is providing the schooling apart from the day care area and the caregiver has no responsibility for the care or supervision or schooling of the children during the hours home day care is provided.

 

(Source:  Amended at 36 Ill. Reg. 13105, effective August 15, 2012)

 

Section 408.40  Background Checks

 

a)         No individual may receive a license from the Department when the applicant, a member of the household age 13 and over, or any individual who has access to the children cared for in a group day care home, or any employee of the group day care home, has not authorized the background check required by 89 Ill. Adm. Code 385, Background Checks and been cleared in accordance with the requirements of Part 385.

 

b)         Employees subject to background checks may begin employment on a conditional basis while awaiting the results of the background check.  Such employees may not be alone with children until the results of the initial background check has been received.

 

c)         Persons who have been the perpetrator of certain types of child abuse or neglect or who have committed or attempted to commit certain crimes may not be licensed to operate a group day care home, be a member of the household of a family home in which a group day care home operates, or be an employee or volunteer in a group day care home.  These allegations/criminal convictions are listed in Appendix E of this Part.

 

d)         Group day care homes shall be responsible for ensuring that persons subject to criminal background checks make themselves available for fingerprinting when scheduled by the Department or its authorized representative(s).  Failure of a person subject to criminal background checks to appear for scheduled fingerprinting may result in the denial of a license application or refusal to renew or revocation of an existing license unless the child care facility can demonstrate that it took reasonable measures to insure cooperation with the fingerprinting process.  Adequate cause for failure to appear for fingerprinting includes, but is not limited to:

 

1)         death in the family of the person;

 

2)         serious illness of the person or illness in the person's immediate family; or

 

3)         weather or transportation emergency.

 

e)         As a condition of licensure, each licensee or license applicant must certify under penalty of perjury that he or she is not more than 30 days delinquent in complying with a child support order.  Failure to so certify may result in a denial of the license application, refusal to renew the license, or revocation of the license.  (Section 10-65 of the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act [5 ILCS 100/10-65]

 

f)         If the licensee(s) or license applicant(s) acknowledge that they are currently more than 30 days delinquent in complying with an order for child support or, upon completion of the background check, the licensee(s) or license applicant(s) are found to be delinquent despite their certification, the Department shall deny the application for license, refuse to renew the license, or revoke the license unless the licensee(s) or license applicant(s) arrange for payment of past due and current child support and pay child support in accordance with that agreement.

 

(Source:  Amended at 21 Ill. Reg. 4563, effective April 1, 1997)

 

Section 408.45  Caregivers

 

a)         The caregiver is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the group day care home in accordance with the standards prescribed in this Part.

 

b)         The caregiver or a designated child care assistant meeting the requirements of this Section shall be at the group day care home at all times that the group day care home is in operation, except when transporting children or accompanying them on field trips.

 

c)         The caregivers in a group day care home shall be at least 21 years of age.

 

d)         The caregivers shall have a high school diploma or equivalency certificate.

 

e)         In addition to meeting the requirements of Sections 408.35 and 408.40 the caregiver in a group day home shall have achieved:  

 

1)         One year (1560 clock hours) child development experience in a licensed day care home, nursery school, kindergarten, or licensed day care center plus 6 semester or equivalent quarter hours in courses related directly to child care and/or child development from an accredited college or university;

 

2)         One year (30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours) of credit from an accredited college or university with 6 semester or equivalent quarter hours related directly to child care and/or child development; or

 

3)         Completion of a credentialing program approved in accordance with Appendix F.

 

f)         The caregivers shall complete 15 clock hours of in-service training per licensing year in accordance with the requirements in Appendix G.

 

1)         The training may be derived from programs offered by any of the entities identified in Appendix G.

 

2)         Courses or workshops to meet this requirement include, but are not limited to, those listed in Appendix G.

 

3)         Licensees shall submit to the local licensing office a certificate of completion of lead safety training consisting of instruction in the following topics:

 

A)        Mitigation plan strategies for test results of 2.01 ppb or above; and

 

B)        Impact of lead exposure.

 

g)         Caregivers obtaining clock hours of training in excess of the required 15 clock hours per year may apply up to 5 clock hours to the next year's training requirements.

 

h)         The records of the group day care home shall document the continuing education in which the caregiver has participated, and these records shall be available for review by the Department.

 

i)          Through interaction with the licensing representative, children, parents or guardian of children in care and operation of the group day care home in accordance with standards prescribed by this Part, caregivers shall exhibit competence in the following specific areas:

 

1)         Knowledge of basic hygiene, safety, and nutrition;

 

2)         The ability to relate comfortably with parents and to communicate with them on differences in caregiving methods, values, and goals;

 

3)         The ability to communicate with children;

 

4)         The ability to set realistic controls for children and to enforce these without harshness or physical abuse;

 

5)         Knowledge of the children's need to explore and manipulate and the willingness to provide and maintain a home where children can enjoy living and learning; and

 

6)         Using developmentally appropriate behavior management techniques that do not constitute corporal punishment of children.

 

j)          The caregivers shall be responsible for the planning and supervision of the program and activities of the children; orienting child care assistants and substitutes to the operation of the group day care home; on-site supervision of child care assistants; and in-service training totaling a minimum of 15 clock hours per year for the child care assistants. Orientation and training may be provided by the primary caregivers or outside resource persons and shall include recognizing and reporting child abuse or neglect, licensing standards prescribed by this Part, first aid, health and sanitation, fire prevention and safety procedures, special health, developmental, or nutritional needs of children cared for in the group day care home.

 

k)         The caregivers may not work or be employed outside the home during the hours that child care is being provided.  This restriction does not apply to spouses qualifying as caregivers, provided one of them is in the home during the hours that child care is being provided.  Outside employment during hours that child care is not being provided shall not interfere with child care.

 

l)          The caregiver shall be awake, alert, and able to supervise the children when providing care, except as allowed by Section 408.115.

 

(Source:  Amended at 43 Ill. Reg. 265, effective January 1, 2019)

 

Section 408.50  Child Care Assistants

 

a)         Assistants shall have passed the background check requirements in Section 408.40(a).

 

b)         Part-time assistants shall be at least 14 years of age and 5 years older than the oldest child they supervise.  Minor assistants shall be employed in accordance with 56 Ill. Adm. Code 250 (Illinois Child Labor Law).

 

c)         Full-time assistants shall be at least 18 years of age.

 

d)         Assistants under age 18 shall work under the direct, personal supervision of the caregiver at all times.  Direct, personal supervision means the caregiver maintains audible or visual contact with the assistant and children on the premises at all times.

 

e)         An assistant 18 years of age or older may accompany children playing outdoors and may transport children if the assistant presents a valid driver's license for the vehicle classification that is being used to transport children and insurance.

 

f)         The assistants shall be compatible with the caregiver, capable of following directions, and responsive to supervision.

 

g)         The child care assistants shall be able to relate well with children.

 

h)         Assistants shall provide medical evidence that they are free of reportable communicable disease and physical or mental conditions that could interfere with child care responsibilities.  The medical report shall be valid for 3 years.

 

(Source:  Amended at 25 Ill. Reg. 5281, effective April 1, 2001)

 

Section 408.55  Substitutes

 

a)         A substitute caregiver may be used in the home up to 25 child care hours per month and for an additional period not to exceed 2 weeks in a 12 month period.  The supervising agency may approve additional time for family emergencies, medical reasons, and continuing education when the substitute to be used during these periods meets the qualifications in Section 408.45.  The substitute caregiver's work time shall be documented.

 

b)         A substitute caregiver shall be at least 21 years of age.

 

c)         A person who functions as a substitute caregiver on a regular or scheduled basis shall meet the requirements of Sections 408.35 and 408.40.

 

d)         The parents of children in care and the Department shall be notified of any substitution which occurs on a regular or scheduled basis or where in the caregiver is absent from the home for more than 24 consecutive hours during which children are in care.

 

e)         The caregiver shall have on file the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of additional adults who would be available to assist in the home in an emergency.

 

f)         The caregiver shall have a plan worked out and understood by the parents in case the caregiver is ill or absent from the home due to an emergency.

 

(Source:  Amended at 27 Ill. Reg. 19232, effective December 15, 2003)

 

Section 408.60  Enrollment and Discharge Procedures

 

a)         No child served in a day care facility shall remain on the premises for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period unless the parent's employment schedule requires more than 12 hours of day care.  Regardless of the parent's employment or training schedule, at no time shall children cared for in a day care facility remain on the premises for more than 18 consecutive hours.

 

b)         Prior to acceptance of a child for care, the caregiver shall require that the parents accompany the child to the home to become acquainted with the caregiver and with the service to be provided. 

 

c)         No child under 6 years of age may be admitted to the group day care home unless the health examination, complete with lead risk assessment if the child resides in an area defined as low risk by the Department of Public Health, or a screening for lead poisoning if the child resides in an area defined as high risk by DPH (see 77 Ill. Adm. Code 845 (Lead Poisoning Prevention Code)), has been completed as required by DPH rules at 77 Ill. Adm. Code 665 (Child Health Examination Code).

 

d)         The caregiver shall require that the parent provide a certified copy of the child's birth certificate. The caregiver:

 

1)         Shall provide a written notice to the parent of a child to be enrolled for the first time that within 30 days after enrollment the parent shall provide a certified copy of the child's birth certificate or other reliable proof of identity and age of the child.

 

A)        The caregiver shall promptly make a copy of the certified copy and return the original certified copy to the parent.

 

B)        If a certified copy of the birth certificate is not available, the parent must submit a passport, visa or other governmental documentation as proof of the child's identity and age and an affidavit or notarized letter explaining the inability to produce a certified copy of the birth certificate. [325 ILCS 50/5]

 

C)        The notice to parent shall also indicate that the caregiver is required by law to notify the Illinois State Police or local law enforcement agency if the parent fails to submit proof of the child's identity within the 30 day time frame.

 

2)         Shall notify the Illinois State Police or local law enforcement agency of the parent's failure to submit a certified copy of the child's birth certificate or other reliable proof of identity.  The caregiver shall also notify the parent in writing that the Illinois State Police or local law enforcement has been notified as required by law and that the parent has 10 additional days to comply by submitting the required documentation. [325 ILCS 50/5]

 

3)         Shall report to the Illinois State Police or local law enforcement agency any affidavit received which appears inaccurate or suspicious in form or content. [325 ILCS 50/5]

 

4)         Shall flag the record of a child enrolled at the day care who is reported by the Illinois State Police as a missing person, and shall immediately report to the Illinois State Police any request concerning flagged records or knowledge as to the whereabouts of any missing child. [325 ILCS 50/5]

 

e)         The parents shall be permitted to visit the home, without prior notice, during the hours their children are in care.

 

f)         The caregivers shall conduct a daily, preadmissions screening to determine if the child has obvious symptoms of illness.  If symptoms of illness are present, the caregiver shall determine whether or not to provide care for the child, depending upon the apparent degree of illness, other children present, and facilities available to provide care for the ill child in accordance with the requirements of Section 408.70.

 

g)         Children with diarrhea and those with rash combined with fever (oral temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) shall not be admitted to the group day care home while these symptoms persist, and shall be removed as soon as possible should these symptoms develop while the child is in care.

 

h)         A child shall be discharged from the facility only to the child's parents or to a person designated in writing by the parents to receive the child.

 

1)         The caregiver shall refuse to release a child to any person, whether related or unrelated to the child, who has not been authorized in writing by the parents to receive the child. 

 

2)         Persons not known to the caregiver shall be required to provide a driver's license (with photo) or photo identification card issued by the Illinois Secretary of State to establish their identity prior to a child's release to them.

 

3)         The facility shall maintain a list of persons designated, in writing, by the parents to whom the facility can be expected to discharge the child at least once per week.  These persons, in addition to the parents, shall constitute the primary list of persons to whom the child may be released. 

 

4)         In addition, the facility shall maintain a contingency list of persons designated, in writing, by the parents to whom the child may be released less frequently than once per week.  When the child is released to a person on the contingency list, the facility shall maintain a record of the person to whom the child was released, the date and time that the child was released, and the manner that the child left the facility (whether on foot, by passenger car, by taxicab or other means of transportation).

 

i)          Other discharge provisions of this Section notwithstanding, a child leaving the group day care home to attend school shall be released in accordance with the written authorization of the parents.  The authorization shall include the time that the child is to be released and the means of transportation the child is to use.

 

j)          All group day care homes shall have a written policy that explains the actions the provider will take if a parent does not retrieve, or arrange to have someone retrieve, his or her child at the designated, agreed upon time.  The policy shall consist of the provider's expectations, clearly presented to the parent in the form of a written agreement that shall be signed by the parent, and shall include at least the following elements:

 

1)         The consequences of not picking up the children on time, including:

 

A)        Amount of late fee, if any, and when those fees begin to accrue;

 

B)        The degree of diligence the provider will use to reach emergency contacts, e.g., number of attempted phone calls to parents and emergency contacts, requests for police assistance in finding emergency contacts; and

 

C)        Length of time the facility will keep the child beyond the pick-up time before contacting outside authorities, such as the child abuse hotline or police.

 

2)         Emphasis on the importance of having up-to-date emergency contact numbers on file.

 

3)         Acknowledgement of the provider's responsibility for the child's protection and well-being until the parent or outside authorities arrive.

 

4)         A reminder to staff that the child is not responsible for the situation.  All discussions regarding these situations shall be with the parent, never with the child.

 

k)        The daily list of children in care shall be readily accessible in case of emergency evacuations and fire drills.

 

l)          All group day care homes providing child care to infants, toddlers or preschool age children shall maintain, and notify parents of, written behavior support and transition policies, in compliance with 23 Ill. Adm. Code 235.320 (Behavior Support Plans).

 

m)        Providers of child care to infants, toddlers or preschool age children shall maintain documentation regarding:

 

1)         Steps taken to ensure that the child can participate safely in the program, in accordance with the behavior support plan and program transition policy.

 

2)         This shall include attempts to utilize qualified professional resources, including when parental consent is attempted and whether it is obtained.

 

n)         Early intervention services received by children shall be documented in the behavior support plan.  Providers shall also document whether or not children are evaluated by the Early Intervention Program and/or the school district and, with regard to those children evaluated, whether they are found eligible or ineligible to receive services, including when parental consent is attempted and whether it is obtained, and attempts to utilize professional qualified resources.

 

o)         Providers shall communicate with parents for several reasons, including:

 

1)         to better understand the child's strengths and needs; and

 

2)         to share any initial/ongoing observations of challenging behaviors by provider or staff.

 

p)         Infants, toddlers and preschool age children who, after documented attempts have been made to meet the child's individual needs, demonstrate an inability to benefit from the type of care offered by the group day care home, or whose presence is detrimental to the group, shall be transitioned to a different program.

 

q)         For infants, toddlers and preschool age children, in all instances when a licensee decides that it is in the best interest of the child to transition to a different program, the child's and parents' needs shall be considered by planning with the parents to identify the new program, and working with the parents and pending program on a transition plan designed to ensure continuity of services to meet the child's needs.  Licensees shall adhere to the following requirements regarding program transition plans:

 

1)         All group day care homes shall have written transition policies that outline circumstances in which children may transition out of the program and what the transition process entails;

 

2)         Providers shall notify the Department of transition plans;

 

3)         Nothing shall preclude a parent's or legal guardian's right to withdraw his or her child from a group day care home.  A written statement from the parent or guardian shall be requested by the provider and kept on file, stating the reason for the decision to withdraw the child; and

 

4)         If parents/guardians are unable to provide a letter, the licensee shall maintain documentation that includes the requestor's name and relationship to the child along with the withdrawal date.  The licensee must also sign and date the documentation.

 

r)          Providers shall collect, and report annually to the Illinois State Board of Education, in compliance with 23 Ill. Adm. Code 235.340 (Reporting), information on children transitioning out of the group day care home.

 

(Source:  Amended at 44 Ill. Reg. 16166, effective September 18, 2020)

 

Section 408.65  Number and Ages of Children Served

 

Appendix H includes a chart of the number and ages of children who can be served.

 

a)         A Caregiver Alone

 

1)         The maximum number of children under the age of 12 cared for in a group day care home by a caregiver alone shall be 8 except when all the children are school age.  The maximum number includes the caregiver's own children, related children and unrelated children under age 12 living in the home.  When determining capacity, the home must meet square footage requirements listed in Section 408.30(c).

 

2)         A caregiver alone may care for children in accordance with the following age groupings:

 

A)        A mixed age group consisting of:

 

i)          Up to 8 children under 12 years of age, of which

 

ii)         Up to 5 children may be under 5 years of age, of which

 

iii)        Up to 3 children may be under 24 months of age; or

 

B)        A mixed age group consisting of:

 

i)          Up to 8 children under 12 years of age, of which

 

ii)         Up to 6 children may be under 5 years of age, of which

 

iii)        Up to 2 children may be under 30 months of age; or

 

C)        Up to 8 pre-school children if no child is under age 3; or

 

D)        Up to 12 school age children as defined by Section 408.5.

 

b)         A Caregiver and an Assistant 18 Years of Age or Older

The maximum number of children under the age of 12 cared for in a group day care home by a caregiver and one assistant 18 years of age or older who meets the qualifications listed in Section 408.50 shall be 12.  The maximum number includes the licensee's own children, related children and unrelated children under age 12 living in the home.  When determining capacity, the home must meet square footage requirements listed in Section 408.30(c).  The caregiver and assistant 18 years of age or older may care for children in accordance with the following age groupings:

 

1)         12 children between 3 and 6 years of age.  The assistant must be present when more than 8 such children are present; or

 

2)         A mixed age group consisting of:

 

A)        No more than 12 children under 12 years of age of which

 

B)        No more than 6 children may be under 30 months of age, of which

 

C)        No more than 4 children may be under 15 months of age.

 

c)         Extended Capacity

A caregiver and two assistants who meet the qualifications in Section 408.50 may care for four additional children, for a total capacity of up to 16 children. When determining capacity, the home must meet square footage requirements listed in Section 408.30(c).  The caregiver and two assistants may care for children in accordance with the following age groupings: 

 

1)         A caregiver and two assistants shall be present at all times when there are more than 12 children in the home.

 

2)         When a caregiver, a full-time assistant (age 18 and older), and a part-time assistant (as described in Section 408.50 (b)) are present, care may be provided for four additional school-age children.  The care of school-age children is limited to children who attend school full-time, before and/or after school, when school is not in session, and when the provider's own school-age children come home sick.

 

3)         When a caregiver and two adult assistants (age 18 and older) who meet the requirements listed in Section 408.50 are present, care may be provided for two additional children who are 30 months of age or older, as well as two additional children who are attending school full-time. 

 

A)        The care of school-age children is limited to those times listed in Section 408.65(c)(2).

 

B)        Both adult assistants shall be present at all times when providing care for two additional children who are 30 months of age or older.

 

4)         When a licensee or permit holder has been granted the extended capacity of four additional children in writing, the licensee's own full-time school-age children shall be counted in the additional school-age children when there are more than 12 children in care, and two qualified assistants are present.

 

5)         The total capacity of the group home with an approved extended capacity shall not exceed 16 children.

 

d)        The maximum number of children receiving night care shall be 12 children and groupings shall be consistent with subsections (a) and (b).

 

e)         In the event of a brief unforeseen school closing, the licensee may accept one additional school-age child and still be considered in compliance with the capacity requirements, as long as the total number of children under age 12 in the home does not exceed the maximum of 16 children.  The licensee shall maintain a record of the dates, names and ages of the children for whom this care was provided.

 

f)         When acceptance of siblings of children who are already in care will place the licensee out of compliance with the established age groupings, the licensee may develop a transition plan that shall be submitted to the licensing representative for review and approval. The plan may be approved when:

 

1)         The licensee is not currently operating under a transition plan and is in full compliance with all the licensing standards;

 

2)         At least one of the siblings has been in care for 30 days or more; and

 

3)         The transition plan will bring the home back into compliance with the established age groupings within 6 months after the date the plan is approved.

 

(Source:  Amended at 49 Ill. Reg. 8928, effective July 1, 2025)

 

Section 408.70  Health, Medical Care and Safety

 

a)         A medical report, on forms prescribed by the Department, shall be on file for each child, on the first day of care, and shall be dated no earlier than 6 months prior to enrollment.

 

1)         The medical report shall be valid for 2 years, except that subsequent examinations for school-age children shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 27-8.1 of the School Code [105 ILCS 5/27-8.1], provided copies of the exam are on file at the facility.

 

2)         If the child is in a high risk group, as determined by the examining physician, a tuberculin skin test by the Mantoux method and the results of that test shall be included in the initial examination for all children who have attained one year of age, or at the age of one year for children who are enrolled before their first birthday.  The tuberculin skin test by the Mantoux method shall be repeated when children in high risk groups begin elementary and secondary school.

 

3)         The initial examination shall show that children from 6 months through 6 years of age have been screened for lead poisoning for children residing in an area defined as high risk by the Illinois Department of Public Health in its Lead Poisoning Prevention Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 845) or that a lead risk assessment has been completed for children residing in an area defined as low risk by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

 

4)         The report shall indicate that the child has been immunized as required by the rules of the Illinois Department of Public Health for immunizations (77 Ill. Adm. Code 695).  These required immunizations are poliomyelitis, measles, rubella, diphtheria, mumps, pertussis, tetanus, hepatitis B, haemophilus influenza B, and varicella (chickenpox) or provide proof of immunity according to requirements in Part 695.50 of the Department of Public Health.

 

5)         In accordance with the Child Care Act of 1969, a parent may request that immunizations, physical examinations, and/or medical treatment be waived on religious grounds.  A request for such waiver shall be in writing, signed by the parent, and kept in the child's record.

 

6)         Exceptions made for children who for medical reasons should not be subjected to immunizations or tuberculin tests shall be so indicated by the physician on the child's medical form.

 

b)         A child suspected of having or diagnosed as having a reportable infectious, contagious, or communicable disease for which isolation is required by the Illinois Department of Public Health's General Procedures for the Control of Communicable Disease (77 Ill. Adm. Code 690.1000) shall be excluded from the home until the Illinois Department of Public Health or local health department authorized by it states, in writing, that the communicable, contagious or infectious stage of the disease has passed and that the child may be re-admitted to the group day care home.

 

c)         Necessary medications shall be administered according to specific written instructions from the child's parents or guardians.

 

1)         Prescription medicine labels must bear the child's name, the physician's name, the name of the drug store or pharmacy, prescription number, date of the prescription, and directions for administering.

 

2)         Nonprescription medication provided by the parents may be administered upon written parental permission that specifies the duration and frequency of medication.  Such medication shall be administered in accordance with package instructions, and shall be labeled with the child's name and dated.

 

3)         There shall be a signed statement by the child's parent or guardian giving permission to the caregiver to administer medication to the child.

 

4)         The caregiver shall maintain a record of the dates, hours and dosages that are given.

 

5)         Medication shall be returned to the parents when it is no longer required.  Additionally, medication provided for a child no longer cared for in the facility and medication that has reached its expiration date shall be destroyed.

 

6)         Medical services, such as direct medical care to the child, shall be administered as required by a physician, subject to the receipt of appropriate releases from parents.

 

d)         Personal hygiene standards, such as the following, shall be observed:  

 

1)         Each child shall be provided with an individual towel, washcloth, and drinking cup.  Single-use, disposable articles are acceptable.

 

2)         A separate sleeping arrangement, such as a bed, cot, crib, or playpen with individual bedding, shall be provided for each child who sleeps or naps while in care.  A twin size bed may be used for 2 children under age 4, provided each child shall have individual sheets.

 

A)        The bed shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition at all times, and bedding shall be suitable for the season.

 

B)        Family beds may be used for children if separate linens are used.

 

C)        Rubber sheets shall be used when necessary.

 

3)         The caregiver shall require parents to supply clothing suitable to weather conditions, as well as a complete change of clothing in case of need.

 

4)         Caregivers and children shall use soap and running water to wash their hands before meals, after toileting, after diaper changing, and after contact with respiratory secretions.  Hand sanitizers or diaper wipes are not an acceptable substitute for soap and running water.  Caregivers shall supervise children's hand-washing to ensure that children are not scalded by hot water.

 

5)         Open cuts, sores or lesions on caregivers or children shall be covered.

 

6)         Caregivers shall wash their hands with soap and water prior to food preparation and after any physical contact with a child during food preparation.  Hands shall be dried using single-use towels.

 

7)         Sheets shall be changed when soiled and at least weekly.

 

8)         Clothing soiled due to toilet accidents shall be changed immediately.

 

e)         In order to reduce the risk of infection or contagion to others, there must be space provided in the group day care home for the isolation and observation of a child who becomes ill.  An ill child shall be provided a bed or cot away from other children and a caregiver or assistant shall supervise the child at all times he/she is in the home.

 

f)         When a group day care home admits ill or injured children, a plan for the care of such children must be agreed upon with the parents to assure that the needs of the children for rest, attention, personal care and administration of prescribed medication are met.  No child requiring exclusion from the home in accordance with 77 Ill. Adm. Code 690 may be admitted.

 

g)         Caregivers shall take reasonable measures to reduce the spread of communicable disease among children in the facility by observing such procedures as:  

 

1)         Using only washable toys with diapered children;

 

2)         Washing washable toys at least once per day;

 

3)         Cleaning facility-provided stuffed toys;

 

4)         Washing toys mouthed by one child before they are used by another child; and

 

5)         Washing pacifiers and other items placed in the mouth if dropped to the floor or ground.

 

h)         There shall be an emergency plan for each child in case of accident or sudden illness.

 

1)         The caregiver shall have available at all times the name, address, and telephone number where the child's parents or guardian, relative, friend, or physician, and the Department can be reached.

 

2)         There shall be a planned source of readily available emergency medical care; a hospital emergency medical room, clinic, or the child's physician.

 

3)         When the caregiver accompanies a child to the source of emergency care, an adult who meets the standards prescribed by Section 408.55 must assume supervision of other children in the home.

 

4)         In case of illness or accident, the parent, guardian, or supervising agency responsible for the child shall be notified immediately.

 

i)          Children shall be supervised at all times.  All children in the group day care home shall be protected from exploitation, neglect, and abuse.

 

(Source:  Amended at 30 Ill. Reg. 18310, effective November 13, 2006)

 

Section 408.75  Guidance and Discipline

 

a)         The caregiver shall use disciplinary measures designed and carried out in such a way as to help individual children develop self-control and assume responsibility for their own acts.

 

1)         The caregiver shall establish simple, understandable rules so that expectations and limitations are clear to the child.

 

2)         Discipline shall be in proportion to the particular inappropriate behavior.

 

3)         Discipline shall be related to the child's act and shall be handled immediately by the adult involved so the child is aware of the relationship between acts and consequences.

 

4)         Removal from the other children as a means of helping a child gain control shall be for a number of minutes not to exceed the child's age in years. Removal from the group shall not be used for children less than 24 months of age.

 

b)         No child shall be subjected to extreme punishment.

 

1)         No child shall be subjected to physical punishment, nor can shaming, frightening, or humiliating methods be used.

 

2)         There shall be no verbal abuse, threats, or derogatory remarks about the child or the child's family.

 

3)         Depriving a child of meals or any part of meals shall never be used as punishment.

 

4)         No child shall be punished for toilet accidents.

 

c)         Expulsion due to a child's repeated pattern of challenging behavior is prohibited.  Planned transitions to settings better able to meet the child's needs are not considered expulsions.

 

(Source:  Amended at 44 Ill. Reg. 16166, effective September 18, 2020)

 

Section 408.80  Nutrition and Meals

 

a)         Food requirements for children between birth and the age of eating table food shall be geared to the individual needs of the child and determined by consultation with the parents.  The facility shall provide one-third to two-thirds of the daily nutritional requirements, depending on the length and time of day of the child's stay.  The main meal shall be nutritionally balanced conforming to age appropriate portions and variety as reflected in the Meal Pattern Charts, Appendices A and B.

 

b)         Children one year of age and older in attendance for more than 2 but less than 5 hours shall be served a mid-session snack consisting of one-half cup of pure fruit juice or full-strength canned or frozen fruit juice that contains at least 30 milligrams of Vitamin C per serving, or one to one-half cup of pasteurized milk, or one serving of citrus fruit.

 

c)         Children one year of age and older in attendance 5 to 10 hours shall be served at least one-third of their daily food requirements, which shall include a well-balanced, nutritive meal.  Occasional picnic-type meals may be substituted for a main meal.  Midmorning and midafternoon snacks consisting of fruit, fruit juice, or pasteurized milk (as prescribed under subsection (c)) shall be included.  Children in attendance for over 10 hours shall be served food to provide at least two-thirds of their daily food requirements.  Two meals and the supplemental snacks will meet this requirement.  One of the meals may be breakfast or supper, depending on the time the child arrives or departs.

 

d)         Children under one year of age who are no longer drinking formula or breast milk shall be served whole milk unless low-fat milk is requested by the child's physician.

 

e)         Children shall be served small servings of bite-size pieces.

 

f)         All meals shall be suitable for children and prepared by methods designed to conserve nutritive value, flavor, and appearance.

 

g)         Children under 2 years of age shall not be fed whole berries, hard candies, raisins, corn kernels, raw carrots, whole grapes, hot dogs, nuts, seeds, popcorn, or raw peas, as these foods may cause choking.

 

h)         Cooked carrots, corn, peas and bananas may be served to infants only if mashed, grated or pureed.

 

i)          Hot dogs and raw carrots may be served to children between 2 and 3 years of age only if cut into short, thin strips.  Up to 3 tbsp. of peanut butter may be served to children ages 3 through 5 if thinly spread on bread, crackers or other foods or if mixed with other foods.

 

j)          Drinking water shall be readily available to the children at all times.

 

k)         Mealtimes shall be pleasurable experiences for the child.

 

1)         There shall be enough time allowed for meals so the children can eat in an unhurried atmosphere.

 

2)         Children shall be encouraged but not forced to try new foods.

 

3)         Information provided by parents concerning the child's eating habits, food preferences, or special needs should be considered in planning menus.

 

4)         Food preferences and eating habits shall not be permitted to become a source of friction at mealtimes.

 

5)         Mealtimes should occur in a social atmosphere and afford children the close presence of an attentive adult.

 

l)          Meals shall not be brought from home as a substitute for a meal provided by the facility except as provided in subsection (m).

 

m)        Provisions of this Section notwithstanding, a child requiring a special diet due to medical reasons, allergic reactions, or religious beliefs shall be provided meals and snacks in accordance with the child's needs and the written instructions of the child's parent, guardian, or a licensed physician.  Such instructions shall list any dietary restrictions/requirements and shall be signed and dated by the child's parent, guardian or physician requesting the special diet. The group day care home may request the parent or guardian to supplement food served by the facility.  When food is supplied by the parent or guardian, the facility shall be responsible for assuring that it is properly stored and served to the specific child in accordance with the diet instructions on file at the facility.  Records of food intake shall be maintained when indicated by the child's physician.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 9164, effective June 20, 2008)

 

Section 408.85  Program

 

a)         The caregiver and parent shall discuss the child's health, development, behavior and activities to ensure consistency in planning for the child.

 

b)         The program shall include opportunities for a child to have free choice of activities to play alone, if desired, or with one or several chosen peers.

 

c)         The facility shall provide a basic program of activities geared to the age levels and developmental needs of the children served. The daily program shall provide:  

 

1)         Informal activities, providing a family atmosphere that promotes the physical and emotional well-being of the individual;

 

2)         Encouragement for children to participate in age appropriate household routines such as preparing food, setting tables, and cleaning up;

 

3)         Regularity of such routines as eating, napping, and toileting with sufficient flexibility to respond to the needs of individual children;

 

4)         A balance of active and quiet activity;

 

5)         Daily indoor and outdoor activities in which children make use of both large and small muscles;

 

6)         Occasional trips and activities away from the facility (frequency to be determined by the caregiver);

 

7)         A supervised nap period for children under six years of age who remain five or more hours.  This nap period for the group should not normally exceed two and one-half hours.  Children who remain for as long as four consecutive hours shall have a supervised rest period.

 

d)         The daily program of the facility shall provide experiences which promote the individual child's growth and well-being and the development of self-help and communication skills, social competence, and positive self-identity.

 

e)         Program planning shall provide the following:  

 

1)         A variety of activities which takes into consideration individual differences in interest, attention span, and physical and intellectual maturity;

 

2)         Sufficient time for activities and routines, so that the children can manage them and progress at their own developmental rate;

 

3)         Sufficient materials and equipment to avoid excessive competition and long waits;

 

4)         Program planning so that the children are not always required to move from one activity to another as a total group;

 

5)         A program that avoids long waiting periods between activities and prolonged periods during which the children must stand or sit;

 

6)         Provision for privacy through arranging a small, quiet area that is easily accessible to the child who seeks or needs time to be alone; and

 

7)         A variety of chores and activities at the child's developmental level.

 

f)         Materials and toys shall be kept clean, orderly, attractive, and accessible to the children.  The group day care home may not use or have on the premises any unsafe children's product as described in the Children's Product Safety Act and 89 Ill. Adm. Code 386 (Children's Product Safety).

 

g)         There shall be stimulating play and learning materials; these may include household items used creatively.

 

h)         Each child's individuality shall be respected and a sense of self and development of self esteem shall be encouraged.

 

i)          Children shall not be left unattended and adult supervision shall be provided at all times.

 

j)          The program shall take into account the stress and fatigue that result from constant pressures and stimulation of long hours in a group living situation.

 

k)         Activity areas, equipment, and materials shall be arranged so that staff can be easily aware of the children's presence and activity at all times.

 

l)          Equipment shall be arranged in orderly, clearly defined areas of interest, with sufficient space in each area for the children to see various activities available to them.

 

(Source:  Amended at 34 Ill. Reg. 18411, effective December 15, 2010)

 

Section 408.90  Transportation of Children

 

a)         Children may be transported only when the child/adult ratios in accordance with Section 408.65 are maintained and the person transporting is 18 years of age or older and has a valid driver's license for the vehicle classification being used.

 

b)         Caregivers shall be responsible for assuring the safe transport of children.

 

c)         Each child shall be individually fastened into a suitable infant or child restraint device whenever the vehicle is in motion.  The restraint shall be federally approved and labeled as such and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.  This requirement shall not apply to a child for whom a physician has certified, in writing, that the child has a physical handicap that prevents wearing an appropriate restraint device.

 

d)         While transporting children, the driver shall be responsible for seeing that:  

 

1)         Each child shall board or leave the vehicle from the curb side of the street, and shall be safely conducted to the home or facility.

 

2)         A responsible person as designated by the child's parent or guardian shall receive the child when delivered to the home or the facility.

 

e)         No child shall be left unattended in a vehicle.

 

f)         The vehicle shall be safely equipped and the caregiver shall comply with State and local laws pertaining to vehicles.

 

1)         The vehicle shall be equipped in accordance with requirements of the Illinois Vehicle Equipment Law [625 ILCS 5/Ch. 12] and local vehicle safety ordinances.

 

2)         Evidence of compliance regarding vehicle liability and medical insurance shall be on file with the home records.  Evidence may consist of, but is not limited to, a copy of an insurance policy, binder or certificate; or a letter from the insurance carrier.

 

3)         The vehicle shall be equipped with safety locking devices on doors and shall be maintained in mechanically safe condition at all times.

 

(Source:  Amended at 25 Ill. Reg. 5281, effective April 1, 2001)

 

Section 408.95  Swimming

 

a)         Swimming activities shall be supervised for safety.

 

b)         All children must be directly supervised (caregiver physically present with the child(ren)) at all times when child(ren) are wading or swimming. A second adult shall be available to supervise any children not swimming.

 

c)         Child(ren) shall be permitted to use a swimming pool only under the direct supervison of a person currently certified as a water safety instructor or lifeguard by the American Red Cross or an equivalent water safety program.

 

Section 408.100  Children with Special Needs

 

a)         Children identified as having special needs shall have activities relating to those needs that are planned with parents and/or physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, speech therapists, physical and occupational therapists, educators and other technical and professional persons whose expertise is utilized in providing specialized services to child(ren) with special needs.

 

b)         Parents shall be fully informed and in agreement with all procedures undertaken in relation to the child's needs.

 

c)         There shall be suitable space and equipment so that the child can function as safely and independently as possible.

 

1)         Areas of the home shall be adapted as necessary if special devices are required for the child to function independently.

 

2)         Space needs shall be determined by considering such factors as age and size of the child, activity recommendation, and ambulation problems.

 

d)         In determining license capacity, discipline, nutritional needs, equipment, child(ren) who have special needs due to physical, mental, and/or emotional disabilities shall be considered at the age level at which they function.  The age level at which the child functions for purposes of determining child/staff ratios shall be determined by the Department in consultation with personnel involved in providing care or services for the child.

 

Section 408.105   Children Under 30 Months of Age

 

a)         Children under 30 months of age shall not be permitted in bathrooms, kitchens, or hazardous areas without the caregiver or assistant present.

 

b)         To minimize the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, children shall be placed on their backs when put down to sleep.

 

1)         When the infant cannot rest or sleep on his/her back due to a disability or illness, the caregiver shall have written instructions, signed by a physician, detailing an alternative safe sleep position and/or special sleeping arrangements for the infant.  The caregiver shall place the infant to sleep in accordance with a physician's written instructions.

 

2)         When an infant can easily turn over from the back to tummy position, the infant shall be put down to sleep on his/her back, but allowed to adopt whatever sleeping position the infant prefers.

 

3)         Infants unable to roll from their stomachs to their backs, and from their backs to their stomachs, when found facedown, shall be placed on their backs.

 

4)         No infant shall be put to sleep on a sofa, soft mattress, car seat or swing.

 

5)         When an infant is awake, the infant shall be placed on his/her tummy part of the time and observed at all times.

 

c)         Children under 30 months of age shall be provided a daily program that is designed to meet their needs.

 

1)         The caregivers shall demonstrate warm, positive feelings toward each child through actions such as hugging, patting, smiling, and cuddling.

 

2)         Routines such as naps and feedings shall be discussed with the parents and shall be consistent with the child's routine at home.

 

3)         Non-mobile children who are awake shall be moved to different positions and shall be held, rocked, and carried about.

 

4)         The caregivers shall frequently change the place, position, and toys available for children who cannot move about the room.

 

5)         Consistent toilet training shall be undertaken at a time mutually agreed upon by parents and caregiver in accordance with the child's age and/or stage of development.

 

6)         Children shall be taken outdoors for a portion of every day, when weather permits, except when the child is ill or unless indicated otherwise by parents or physician.

 

d)         Feeding schedules and procedures shall meet the developmental needs of the children.

 

1)         Flexible feeding schedules of children shall be established to coordinate with parents' schedules at home and to allow for nursing.

 

2)         Infants shall either be held or be fed sitting up for bottle feeding.  Infants unable to sit shall always be held for bottle feeding.  When infants are able to hold their own non-glass bottle, they may feed themselves without being held.  The bottle must be removed when the child has fallen asleep.  Bottle propping and carrying of bottles by young children throughout the day/night shall not be permitted.

 

3)         Bottles shall never be warmed or defrosted in a microwave oven.

 

4)         Children shall be allowed and encouraged to feed themselves when they indicate a readiness to do so.

 

5)         Safe finger foods such as those that dissolve in the mouth may be provided.

 

e)         Proper standards of hygiene shall be observed in the home.

 

1)         Hands shall be washed with soap and running water and dried before the feeding of each child.

 

2)         Formula brought in by the parent shall be labeled and refrigerated.

 

3)         All utensils shall be washed after each use.

 

4)         Foods stored or prepared in jars shall be served from a separate dish for each child.  Any leftovers from the serving dish shall be discarded. Leftovers in the jar shall be labeled with the child's name, dated, refrigerated, and served within 24 hours or discarded.

 

5)         A toilet shall be easily accessible so that the contents of reusable diapers may be disposed of before placing the diapers in the diaper pail. Disposable diapers and their contents shall be disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

 

6)         Persons changing diapers shall wash hands under running water with soap after each change of diaper.  Hands shall be dried with single-use towels. Additionally, disposable, non-permeable gloves shall be worn when changing a child who has watery or bloody stools.

 

7)         The child whose diaper is being changed is to be washed on the hands and anal area if there has been defecation or if irritation is present.

 

8)         Children who are not toilet trained shall be diapered in their own cribs, at a central diapering area on a surface that is disinfected after each use, or on a disposable paper sheet that is disposed of after each diapering.

 

9)         The toilet seat, if soiled, or potty shall be cleaned with germicidal solution (see subsection (f)) after every use.

 

10)         Soiled diapers shall be changed promptly.

 

11)         Sheets shall be changed when soiled, and all sheets shall be changed routinely 2 times per week.

 

12)         All beds shall be wiped clean as often as necessary.

 

13)         Toys and equipment shall be kept clean.

 

f)         A germicidal solution of ¼ cup household chlorine bleach to one gallon of water (or one tablespoon bleach to one quart of water) or other germicidal solution approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shall be used to clean surfaces soiled by blood or body fluids.  The bleach solution shall be made fresh daily.

 

g)         The equipment must be appropriate to the developmental needs of the children in care.

 

1)         Safe, sturdy, well-constructed individual cribs, playpens, or port-a-cribs for infants shall be equipped with good firm, fitting mattresses made of waterproof materials that can be washed.  Washable cots may be used for children 15 months of age and over.

 

2)         Sleeping equipment for children under 15 months must have protection to prevent falls.

 

3)         There shall be no more than 1½ inches of space between the mattress and bed frame when the mattress is pushed flush at one corner of the crib.

 

4)         No positioning device that restricts movement within the child's bed shall be used without written instructions from the child's physician.  Soft bedding, bumpers, pillows, quilts, comforters, stuffed toys, laundry and other soft products shall be removed from the crib when children are napping or sleeping.  If using a blanket, put the child with feet at the foot of the crib.  Tuck a thin blanket around the crib mattress, reaching only as far as the child's chest.

 

5)         Bed linens used on the cots, cribs, or playpens shall be safe, tightly fitting, and washable.

 

6)         Conveniently located, washable, plastic-lined covered receptacles shall be provided for soiled diapers and linens.

 

7)         A toilet seat or potty shall be provided.

 

h)         The materials must be appropriate to the developmental needs of the child in care.

 

1)         Provision shall be made for an adequate supply of individual diapers, clothing, powder, oil, etc.

 

2)         There shall be a variety of toys and art materials for children under 30 months of age to observe, grasp, pick up, and manipulate.

 

3)         Pull toys, pounding toys, large hollow blocks, or large balls shall be available for development of large muscles.

 

4)         Mobile walkers are prohibited.  Stationary exercisers may be used.

 

i)          Equipment and play materials shall be durable and free from characteristics that may be hazardous or injurious to children under 30 months of age.  Hazardous or injurious characteristics include sharp, rough edges; toxic paint; and objects small enough to be swallowed.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 9164, effective June 20, 2008)

 

Section 408.110  School Age Children

 

a)         A group day care home receiving children within the school age range shall comply with the standards for group day care homes except when inconsistent with the special requirements in this Section.

 

b)         The facility shall provide a designated area so that the older children's presence shall not interfere with the needs and care of younger children.

 

c)         Indoor equipment shall be available so as to provide for active and quiet play appropriate to the age levels and developmental needs of the children.

 

d)         Outdoor equipment appropriate to the developmental levels of the children in care shall be provided, including sports equipment, outdoor games and activities.

 

e)         The facility shall provide a program and activities that recognize the developmental and educational needs of school-age children who need group care.

 

1)         Quiet activities such as, but not limited to, puzzles, games, reading books, simple art or special projects, and opportunities to do homework shall be accessible on a free choice basis to children waiting in the facility to leave for school during the morning hours.

 

2)         Children who have been in school all day shall have time set aside for relaxation and recreation immediately upon arrival from school.

 

3)         Opportunity shall be available for the development of skills in areas such as, but not limited to, sports, art, and music.

 

4)         Special projects outside the confines of the facility shall be provided, such as trips to the library.

 

5)         The program shall be flexible to allow the children to participate in after-school activities with the written permission of parent(s).

 

f)         Nutritional needs shall be fulfilled.

 

1)         A snack shall be served when children arrive at the home after school in accordance with Section 408.80.

 

2)         Child(ren) who come to the home from school for lunch shall be served a nutritionally balanced meal in accordance with Section 408.80.

 

g)         Areas of responsibility shall be clearly established and agreed to in writing between parent, school, and caregiver including, but not limited to:  

 

1)         Child(ren) leaving the group day care home to go to school;

 

2)         Child(ren) leaving school to go home;

 

3)         Child(ren) leaving the group day care home for any reason; and

 

4)         Child(ren) participating in after school activities or visiting friends.

 

Section 408.115  Night Care

 

a)         A group day care home receiving children for night care shall comply with the standards prescribed for group day care homes in addition to the special requirements prescribed in this Section.

 

b)         A child shall be considered to be enrolled in evening and/or night care when a majority of his or her time at the group day care home occurs between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

 

c)         The child shall be bathed, if needed.

 

d)         No child under 5 years of age shall be left unattended while in the bathtub.

 

e)         Each child must have individual sleeping garments that are clean and comfortable.

 

f)         An individual bed, crib, or cot and individual linen and bedding shall be provided for each child except as provided in this subsection (f):

 

1)         A double bed shall be the minimum size for sleeping 2 non-enuretic children of the same sex.

 

2)         Rubber sheets or suitable substitutes shall be supplied when necessary.

 

3)         If a crib is used there shall be no more than 1½ inches of space between the mattress and bed frame when the mattress is pushed flush at one corner of the crib.

 

4)         Unrelated children over 4 years of age may not share a bedroom over night with children of the opposite sex.

 

g)         Caregivers and children receiving night care shall sleep on the same floor (level) of the residence.

 

h)         If the group day care home receives children for night-time care, the caregiver may sleep while children are present if the caregiver and the children sleep on the same floor (level) of the residence and the children's bedrooms are within hearing distance of the caregiver's bedroom to provide for the needs of the children and to respond immediately in an emergency.

 

i)          A basement area may be used for sleeping or napping if it has been approved in accordance with Section 408.30(a)(12).

 

j)          A room above the first floor may be used for sleeping or napping if the room has 2 exits with one exit leading directly to the outside with means to safely reach the ground level.

 

k)         There shall be a night light or other mechanism to illuminate hallways leading to stairs and/or the restroom.

 

l)          A child who goes to school from a group day care home providing night care shall be clean and properly dressed according to the weather.

 

m)        Each child shall have individual toilet articles such as comb, toothbrush, towel, and washcloth.

 

n)         Health care routines at bedtime and/or upon rising shall include:  

 

1)         Brushing teeth at bedtime and upon rising.

 

2)         Brushing or combing the hair upon rising.

 

3)         Establishing a routine for toileting at bedtime and upon rising.

 

o)         When possible, children shall be left for care and picked up either before or after their normal sleeping period so that there is minimum disturbance of the children during sleep.

 

p)         The group day care home shall serve meals and snacks that supplement food served at home as prescribed in Section 408.80.

 

1)         An evening meal that meets nutritional requirements shall be served at a regular time each evening and shall be available to children who may arrive without having first eaten.

 

2)         A bedtime snack shall be served, unless contraindicated by parents or physician in accordance with Section 408.80.

 

3)         Children who remain overnight and go to school directly from the group day care home shall have breakfast, including juice or fruit, unless they are receiving breakfast at school.

 

(Source:  Amended at 34 Ill. Reg. 18411, effective December 15, 2010)

 

Section 408.120  Records and Reports

 

a)         A facility shall maintain a record file on the children enrolled.

 

1)         A written application for admission of each child shall be on file with the signature of the parent or guardian.

 

2)         An alphabetic card file or register on each child shall be maintained and shall include:  

 

A)        Name, date of birth, and sex;

 

B)        Date of admission and discharge;

 

C)        Scheduled days and hours of care;

 

D)        Names of parents or guardians, home address and business address and telephone numbers, marital status, and the working hours of the parents or guardians;

 

E)        Name, address and telephone number of child's physician (or other person designated by parents who object to medical treatment on religious grounds);

 

F)         Names, addresses and telephone numbers of others authorized to pick up the child;

 

G)        Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of others to contact within the immediate area if parents or guardian cannot be contacted in case of emergency; and

 

H)        Information regarding the child's personal development, habits, medical needs, and other information critical to the child's well-being.

 

3)         There shall be signed consent forms from the parent or guardian including:  

 

A)        Permission for emergency medical care and treatment if the parent is not readily available.

 

B)        Permission to administer medication, if applicable.

 

C)        Permission for someone other than parent or guardian to pick up child if necessary.

 

D)        Visits, trips or excursions off the premises.

 

E)        Transportation provided by caregiver.

 

F)         Permission to use the facility's swimming pool, if applicable.

 

4)         Accidents or illnesses which have occurred to the child at the facility shall be recorded in the file.  When a child is not permitted to attend the facility because of an accident or illness, the date of readmission to the facility shall be recorded.

 

5)         All required health and medical reports as required by Section 408.70.

 

6)         A statement signed by the parents or guardian indicating receipt of a summary of licensing standards and other materials as required by subsection (c) shall be in the child's record file.

 

b)         A facility shall maintain accurate daily attendance records on all children enrolled.  If a child attends on a part-time or irregular basis, this shall be recorded in the attendance record.

 

c)         The facility shall distribute a summary of the licensing standards, provided by the Department, to the parents or guardian of each child at the time that the child is accepted for care in the facility.  In addition, consumer information materials provided by the Department including, but not limited to, information on reporting and prevention of child abuse and neglect and preventing and reporting communicable disease, shall be distributed to the parents or guardian of each child cared for when designated for such distribution by the Department.  Each child's record shall contain a statement signed by the child's parent or guardian, indicating that they have received a summary of licensing standards and other materials designated by the Department for such distribution.

 

d)         The group day care home shall enter in the child's record and orally report immediately to the child's parent, guardian, and the Department any serious occurrences involving children.  Oral reports shall be confirmed in writing within 2 working days of the occurrence.  If the home is unable to contact the parent, guardian or Department immediately, it shall document this fact in the child's record.  These occurrences include serious accident or injury requiring extensive medical care or hospitalization; death; arrest; alleged abuse or neglect; major fire or other emergency situations.

 

e)         Suspected child abuse or neglect shall be reported immediately to the Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline as required by the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act.  The telephone number for the reporting hotline is 1-800-252-2873.

 

f)         The caregiver shall immediately notify the Department of the death of any child at the facility; a child is missing from the group day care home; any illness or injury of a child resulting in medical treatment or hospitalization, and any known or suspected case or carrier or a reportable contagious, infectious, or communicable disease among children, staff or members of the household.

 

g)         The caregiver shall immediately notify the Department of any natural disaster or other occurrence resulting in the loss of or damage to physical plant or equipment required to operate the group day care home in accordance with this Part.

 

h)         Records shall be maintained on all staff and shall contain all pertinent information relative to character, suitability, and qualifications for the position; health; 3character references verified by the group day care home; history of employment for the previous 5 years; date of employment by the group day care home; and, if applicable, date and reasons for separation from the day care home.

 

i)          The caregiver shall make available to staff a current and complete copy of the licensing standards in a location readily accessible to staff.  Further, the licensee shall maintain a record signed by staff indicating that they have reviewed the licensing standards and any subsequent changes to those standards provided to the licensee by the Department.  Records documenting compliance with this requirement shall be maintained by the licensee and available for licensing review.

 

j)          When the licensed day care home is cited for one or more substantiated violations of licensing standards by the supervising agency, the caregiver shall prominently display in the home the list of violations and the corrective plan, on a form provided by the supervising agency.  The caregiver shall keep the form posted until a licensing representative has verified in writing that every violation on that form has been corrected.

 

k)         Each staff person shall sign a statement prescribed by the Department acknowledging his or her status as a mandated reporter of child abuse or neglect under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act and acknowledging he or she has knowledge and understanding of the reporting requirements under that Act.  Such statement shall be signed and dated by the staff person prior to employment, and shall be maintained by the licensee.

 

l)          The facility shall maintain and submit reports on staff to the Department on forms provided by the Department.

 

1)         An individual report on each new employee shall be filed with the Department; a copy of this report shall be kept at the facility.

 

2)         All staff changes shall be reported to the Department immediately.

 

3)         Copies of documentation of medical information, verification of educational achievement, and character references of employees shall be provided upon request by the Department.

 

m)        The facility shall promptly report any known or suspected case or carrier of communicable disease to local health authorities, and shall comply with the Illinois Department of Public Health's rules for the Control of Communicable Diseases (77 Ill. Adm. Code 690).

 

n)         Authorized Department licensing representatives or other Department representatives who have the Director's written authorization which specifies the statutory authority or administrative rule under which the access is granted shall have access to records and reports.  All persons who have access to the records and reports shall respect their confidential nature.

 

o)         A medical record for each child, on forms provided by the Department, shall be maintained at the facility, dated no earlier than 6 months prior to enrollment, and signed by the examining physician, an advance practice nurse who has a written collaborative agreement with a collaborating physician that authorizes the advance practice nurse to perform health examinations, a physician assistant who has been delegated the performance of health examinations by the supervising physician; or the medical record is certified by a recognized health facility.

 

p)         The licensee shall notify the supervising agency within one week, in writing, of any changes to the household composition.  Changes that require notification include the addition of any new person into the home, the return of any former household member, or the departure of any household member.

 

q)         The licensee shall keep a record of dates and hours worked by the substitute caregiver while the licensee is absent from the group day care home, as required in 89 Ill. Adm. Code 408.55(a).

 

r)          The licensee shall maintain records required for fire safety in accordance with Section 408.30. Fire safety records include monthly fire drill reports, monthly fire safety inspections conducted by the licensee, and the log of daily inspections by the licensee to ensure that exit routes are kept clear.

 

(Source:  Amended at 34 Ill. Reg. 18411, effective December 15, 2010)

 

Section 408.125  Confidentiality of Records and Information

 

a)         The caregiver shall respect the confidential nature of the child and family records.

 

b)         Information pertaining to the admission, progress, health, or discharge of an individual child shall be confidential and limited to authorized representatives of the Department, caregivers and assistants unless the parent(s) of the child has granted written permission for its disclosure or dissemination.

 

1)         The facility shall have confidentiality release forms signed by the parents which specifies to whom information may be released and how long the release form is valid.  Such release forms shall be on file at the facility prior to release of information.

 

2)         If information is requested by outside persons or agencies, a specific written request signed by the person requesting the information shall be obtained and placed on file at the facility prior to the release of confidential information.

 

c)         Nothing in this Section shall be construed to relieve the caregiver(s) or other persons of their responsibility to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Department or  to report communicable disease(s) among children, staff or members of the household to the local health department of the Illinois Department of Public Health.

 

Section 408.130  Cooperation with the Department

 

a)         Authorized representatives of the Department shall be admitted to the facility during the facility's hours of operation for the purpose of determining compliance with the Child Care Act of 1969 and standards set forth in this Part.

 

b)        Licensed providers are subject to periodic monitoring as long as the license is valid, whether or not child care is actually being provided.

 

(Source:  Amended at 27 Ill. Reg. 19232, effective December 15, 2003)

 

Section 408.135  Severability of This Part

 

If any court of competent jurisdiction finds that any rule, clause, phrase, or provision of this Part is unconstitutional or invalid for any reason whatsoever, this finding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Part.

Section 408.APPENDIX A   Meal Pattern Chart for Children 0 to 12 Months of Age

 

MEAL	Ages 0-4 Months	Ages 4-8 Months	Ages 8-12 Months
BREAKFAST
Infant Formula (iron fortified)	4-6 ounces	6-8 ounces	6-8 ounces
Infant Cereal (iron fortified)	0	1-3 tablespoons	2-4 tablespoons
SNACK (Supplement)
Infant Formula (iron fortified)	4-6 ounces	2-4 ounces	2-4 ounces
or full strength fruit	0	2-4 ounces	2-4 ounces
or whole fluid milk	0	0	2-4 ounces
Enriched or whole-grained bread	0	0-¼ slice**	0-¼ slice**
or cracker-type product (suitable	0	0-2 crackers**	0-2 crackers**
for infants)
LUNCH OR SUPPER
Infant Formula (iron fortified)	4-6 ounces	6-8 ounces	6-8 ounces*
Infant Cereal (iron fortified)	0	1-2 tablespoons
strained fruit and/or vegetable	0	1-2 tablespoons	3-4 tablespoons
(to total)
Strained meat, fish, poultry, or egg yolk	0	0-1 tablespoon**	1-4 tablespoons
or cheese	0	0-½ ounce**	½-2 ounces
or cottage cheese, cheese food, or	0	0-1 ounce**	1-4 ounces
cheese spread
*     Or 6-8 ounces of whole milk and 0-3 ounces of full strength fruit juice
**   These items are suggested, not required. Parents should ask their doctor if they have questions about what their baby should eat.

 

 

Section 408.APPENDIX B   Meal Pattern Chart for Children Over One Year of Age

 

	BREAKFAST Ages						LUNCH/SUPPER Ages
	1 through 2	3 through 5		6 through 12			1 through 2		3 through 5		6 and older1
MILK
Milk, fluid	½ cup2	¾ cup		1 cup	½ cup			¾ cup2		1 cup
VEGETABLES AND FRUITS4
Vegetable(s) and/or fruits	¼ cup	½ cup		½ cup	¼ cup total			½ cup total		¼ cup total
or
Full-strength vegetable or fruit juice or an equivalent quantity of any combination of vegetable(s), fruit(s), and juice.	¼ cup	½ cup		½ cup
BREAD AND BREAD ALTERNATES3
Bread	½ slice	½ slice		1 slice	½ slice			½ slice		½ slice
or
Cornbread, biscuits, rolls, muffins, etc.	½ serv.	½ serv.		1 serv.	½ serv.			½ serv.		1 serv.
or
Cold dry cereal	¼ cup or ⅓ oz.	⅓ cup or ½ oz.		¾ cup or 1 oz.
or
Cooked cereal	¼ cup	¼ cup		½ cup
or
Cooked pasta or noodle products	¼ cup	¼ cup		½ cup
or
Cooked cereal grain or an equivalent quantity of any combination of bread/bread alternate	¼ cup	¼ cup	½ cup
Cooked pasta or noodle products or cooked cereal grains or an equivalent quantity of any combination of bread/bread alternate						¼ cup		¼ cup		½ cup
MEAT AND MEAT ALTERNATES
Lean meat or poultry or fish5					1 oz.			1½ oz.		2 oz.
or
Cheese					1 oz.			1½ oz.		2 oz.
or
Eggs					1 egg			1 egg		1 egg
or
Cooked dry beans or peas					¼ cup			3/8 cup		½ cup
or
An equivalent quantity of any combination of meat/meat alternate					2 tbsp.			3 tbsp.		4 tbsp.
or
Peanut butter					---			3 tbsp.		4 tbsp.

 

¹   Children age 12 and up may be served adult-size portions based on the greater food needs of older boys and girls, but shall be served not less than the minimum quantities specified for children age 6 to 12.

²   For purposes of the requirements outlined, a cup means a standard measuring cup.

Bread, pasta, or noodle products and cereal grains shall be whole-grain or enriched.  Cornbread, biscuits, rolls, muffins, etc., shall be made with whole-grain or enriched meal or flour.  Cereal shall be whole-grain or enriched or fortified.

⁴   Serve 2 or more kinds of vegetables and/or fruits.  Full strength vegetable or fruit juice may be counted to meet not more than one-half of this requirement.

⁵   Cooked lean meat without bone.

 

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 9164, effective June 20, 2008)

Section 408.APPENDIX C   Minimum Equipment and Supplies – Preschool Programs

 

		PERMIT	LICENSE (additional equipment and supplies)
Furniture:	1.	Sufficient tables and chairs with backs for children (one chair per child-no folding chairs).
	2.	One cot per licensed capacity.
	3.	First-aid kit.
	4.	Cot with blanket (for ill child).
	5.	Chair with backs (for staff).
	6.	Low open shelves and bookcases (one foot per child).
	7.	Space/equipment for maintenance of children's records.
	8.	Individual spaces for outer clothing
	9.	Area rug or carpeting.
Active, large- muscle Play: (for indoors)	1.	Large building blocks (May be of non-durable materials)	1.	Durable large building blocks
	2.	Two pieces of durable large-muscle equipment such as:	2.	Three pieces of durable large-muscle equipment
		climber
		rocking boat
		triangle set
		tunnel
		walking plank
		wheel toys
Active, large-muscle Play:  (for outdoors)	1.	Two pieces of durable large-muscle equipment such as:	1.	Three pieces of durable large-muscle equipment
		climber
		slide
		large wheel toys
		swing
		sand-box
		water play materials
		balls
Art and music activities:	1.	Phonograph
	2.	Records – At least six	2.	Records – At least ten.
	3.	One double easel.	3.	Double easel
			4.	Rhythm band.

 

		PERMIT	LICENSE (additional equipment and supplies)
Dramatic Play:	1.	Small blocks
	2.	Three small durable transportation toys.	2.	Six small durable transportation toys
	3.	One spontaneous dramatic play area with at least two pieces of permanent equipment:	3.	At least two areas for spontaneous dramatic play, each having at least three pieces of equipment.
		pretend area
		work bench (woodwork and tools)
		housekeeping area: e.g., doll bed, stove sink, refrigerator, cupboard, etc.
	4.	Accessories:  dolls, dishes, pots and pans.	4.	At least one full-length mirror.
			5.	Dress-up clothes.
Ponder Play:	1.	Books – one per every child.	1.	Two per every child.
	2.	Puzzles – one per every four children.	2.	One per every two children.
			2a.	Puzzle rack.
	3.	Cognitive games – one per every four children:  e.g., number concepts, letter concepts, shapes concepts, size concepts, color concepts.	3.	One per every two children.
			4.	Science items:  e.g., magnet, magnifying glass, pets, plants.
Expendable supplies:	1.	Clay or playdough.
	2.	Tempera or finger paints (non-toxic).
	3.	Paper (colored and white).
	4.	Paste (non-toxic).
	5.	Scraps – collage materials.
	6.	Paint brushes.
	7.	Crayons.
	8.	Blunt scissors.
	9.	Aprons – smocks.

 

		PERMIT	LICENSE (additional equipment and supplies)
Fine-motor Development:	1.	Manipulative toys – one per every four children: e.g., pegs and pegboards, beads and strings, interlocking plastic forms, puzzles, nesting blocks.	1.	One per every three children.
	2.	Sand or water play equipment.
Language Development:	1.	Pictures.
	2.	Bulletin boards.
	3.	Flannel board and flannel sets.
Food Service Supplies:	1.	Dishes, silverware, and cups, if meals are to be served.

 

Section 408.APPENDIX D   Minimum Equipment and Supplies – Infant and Toddler Programs

 

		INFANT PROGRAMS		TODDLER PROGRAMS
Furnishings:	1.	Sufficient infant-sized tables and chairs with backs for infants able to sit alone. One chair per infant; no folding chairs.	1.	Same as furniture for preschool programs plus:
	2.	One crib with mattress and blanket per infant in attendance.	2.	Training chairs. (Stackable cots may be substituted for napping.)
	3.	Ten-unit first-aid kit.
	4.	Crib with mattress and blanket for ill infant.
	5.	Chairs with backs (for staff).
	6.	Low open shelves and bookcases (one foot per child).
	7.	Space and equipment for maintenance of children's records.
	8.	Adult rocker.
	9.	Individual space for outer clothing.
	10.	High chairs.
	11.	Infant seats.
	12.	Baby walkers (optional).
	13.	Bathing tub.	13.	Bathing tub.
	14.	Changing table with changeable covering.	14.	Changing table with changeable covering.
	15.	Diaper pail with liners.	15.	Diaper pail with liners. Toilet with training seat, child-size toilet or potty chair.
	16.	Area rug or carpeting.
	17.	Play pens (optional).
	18.	Gates as needed for safety.	18.	Gates as needed for safety.
	19.	Refrigerator.
Active large-muscle play:	1.	Large building blocks (may be of non-durable material)	SAME AS PRESCHOOL PROGRAM
	2.	Five pieces of durable large-muscle equipment such as:	2.	Five  pieces of durable, large-muscle equipment such as:
		Baby bouncers		Two-step slide
		Large turning balls		Rocking boat
		Body wheels		Indoor gym house
		Riding stools		Swing
	3.	Large open plastic ball.		Tunnel
	4.	Water-play equipment		Climber
Art and music activities:	1.	Phonograph	SAME AS PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS.
	2.	Records – at least six.
	3.	Musical pull-toys.
	4.	Rattles.
	5.	Drum (without stocks).
FINE MOTOR DEVELOP-MENT:	1.	Matching and feeling toys – one per every two children such as:	SAME AS PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS.
		plastic clutch toys
		form toys
		rattles
		pull toys
		feeling balls
	2.	Manipulative toys – one per every two children such as:
		teething toys
		wooden rattles
		shape toys
		clutch balls
Language Development:	1.	Pictures	SAME AS PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS.
	2.	Bulletin boards.
LINENS AND SUPPLIES:	1.	For each crib:  bumpers, sheets (cotton, plus rubber and/or plastic), blankets	SAME AS PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS.
	2.	Bath towels.
	3.	Wash cloths.	3.		Wash cloths.
	4.	Diapers.	4.		Diapers.
	5.	Cover(s) for changing table.
	6.	Sterile cotton balls
	7.	Facial tissues.	7.		Facial tissues.
	8.	Soap.	8.		Soap.
	9.	Petroleum jelly or bland diaper-rash ointment.	9.		Petroleum jelly or bland diaper-rash ointment.
	10.	Rubber-bulk ear syringe with blunt plastic or rubber tip.
	11.	Bottle warmer.

 

(Source:  Amended at 25 Ill. Reg. 5281, effective April 1, 2001)

Section 408.APPENDIX E   Background of Abuse, Neglect, or Criminal History Which May Prevent Licensure or Employment in a Group Day Care Home

 

A.	The Department makes the presumption that an individual who has been determined to be a perpetrator of child abuse or neglect involving the allegations listed below, as defined in Appendix B, Child Abuse and Neglect Allegations of 89 Ill. Adm. Code 300, Reports of Child Abuse and Neglect is not suitable for work that involves contact with children.
		Death
		Head injury, brain damage, skull fracture or hematoma
		Internal injuries
		Wounds (gunshot, knife, or puncture)
		Torture
		Sexually transmitted diseases
		Sexual penetration
		Sexual molestation
		Sexual exploitation
		Failure to thrive
		Malnutrition
		Medical neglect of disabled infant
		A single indicated report of child abuse or neglect that resulted in serious injury to the child, regardless of the allegations involved
		More than one indicated report involving any of the following allegations, regardless of severity:
			Burns or scalding
			Poison or noxious substances
			Bone fractures
			Cuts, bruises, welts, abrasions and injuries
			Human bites
			Sprains or dislocations
			Tying or close confinement
			Substance misuse
			Mental and emotional impairment
			Substantial risk of physical injury
			Inadequate supervision
			Abandonment or desertion
			Medical neglect
			Lock-out
			Inadequate food
			Inadequate shelter
			Inadequate clothing
			Environmental neglect
	If the licensees/license applicants believes there are unusual circumstances that should be considered that mitigate the presumption of unsuitability, the licensees/license applicants may request a waiver of the presumption of unsuitability.  Materials to be considered are to be submitted to the licensing entity.
B.	Criminal Convictions Which Prevent Licensure or Employment
	If any person subject to background checks has been included in the Statewide Child Sex Offender Database or convicted of committing or attempting to commit one or more of the following serious criminal offenses under the Criminal Code of 1961 [720 ILCS 5] or under any earlier Illinois criminal law or code or an offense in another state, the elements of which are similar and bear a substantial relationship to any of the criminal offenses specified below, this conviction will serve as a bar to receiving a license or permit to operate as a child care facility and from obtaining employment or continuing in employment in a licensed child care facility that allows access to children as part of the duties.   The offenses that serve as a bar to licensure, residence in a family home in which a child care facility operates, or employment that allows access to children in any child care facilities subject to licensing include:
	OFFENSES DIRECTED AGAINST THE PERSON
	HOMICIDE
	Murder
	Solicitation of murder
	Solicitation of murder for hire
	Intentional homicide of an unborn child
	Voluntary manslaughter of an unborn child
	Involuntary manslaughter
	Reckless homicide
	Concealment of a homicidal death
	Involuntary manslaughter of an unborn child
	Reckless homicide of an unborn child
	Drug induced homicide
	KIDNAPPING AND RELATED OFFENSES
	Kidnapping
	Aggravated kidnapping
	Aggravated unlawful restraint
	Forcible detention
	Child abduction
	Aiding and abetting child abduction
	Harboring a runaway
	SEX OFFENSES
	Indecent solicitation of a child
	Indecent solicitation of an adult
	Public indecency
	Sexual exploitation of a child
	Custodial sexual misconduct
	Presence within school zone by child sex offenders
	Approaching, contacting, residing, or communicating with a child within a public park zone by child sex offenders
	Sexual relations within families
	Prostitution
	Soliciting for a prostitute
	Soliciting for a juvenile prostitute
	Solicitation of a sexual act
	Pandering
	Keeping a place of prostitution
	Keeping a place of juvenile prostitution
	Patronizing a prostitute
	Patronizing a juvenile prostitute
	Pimping
	Juvenile pimping
	Exploitation of a child
	Obscenity
	Child pornography
	Harmful material
	Tie-in sales of obscene publications to distributors
	Posting of identifying information on a pornographic Internet site
	BODILY HARM
	Heinous battery
	Aggravated battery with a firearm
	Aggravated battery of a child
	Tampering with food, drugs, or cosmetics
	Hate crime
	Stalking
	Aggravated stalking
	Threatening public officials
	Home invasion
	Vehicular invasion
	Criminal sexual assault
	Aggravated criminal sexual assault
	Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child
	Criminal sexual abuse
	Aggravated sexual abuse
	Criminal transmission of HIV
	Criminal neglect of an elderly or disabled person
	Child abandonment
	Endangering the life or health of a child
	Ritual mutilation
	Ritualized abuse of a child
	Drug induced infliction of great bodily harm

 

Refer to Appendix A of Part 385 for a additional convictions that bar licensure of or employment in a child care facility.

 

(Source:  Amended at 30 Ill. Reg. 18310, effective November 13, 2006)

Section 408.APPENDIX F   Early Childhood Teacher Credentialing Programs

 

The Department will use the following criteria to review and approve early childhood teacher credentialing programs:

 

Eligibility Requirements

 

1.         Candidates must be at least 18 years of age.

 

2.         Candidates must have at least a high school diploma or equivalency (GED).

 

3.         The credentialing program must require a minimum of 640 clock hours of documented experience within the past 5 years working with children ages zero to 6 in a public or private school operated nursery school, kindergarten or licensed day care center.

 

Credentialing Process

 

The credentialing process must include:

 

1.         The child care director's recommendation in support of the candidate.

 

2.         A review of the applicant's interaction with children under direct supervision by an impartial person.

 

3.         A minimum of 120 clock hours of broad based training that has been completed successfully and that has been documented.  One semester hour of college credits in early childhood education is equivalent to 15 clock hours of formal in-service training.  This training may be completed through:

 

A.        Early childhood education courses at an accredited college or university; or

 

B.        Documented seminars and workshops pertaining to the growth and education of children zero to 6 years of age, at educational conferences of recognized national or state associations, agencies, or educational institutions.

 

4.         Professional resource file or portfolio that demonstrates the understanding of core professional content areas including, but not limited to, the following:

 

A.        Principles of child growth and development.

 

B.        Planning a safe, healthy learning environment.

 

C.        Advancing children's physical and intellectual development.

 

D.        Supporting children's social and emotional development.

 

E.         Establishing productive relationships among family, school, and community.

 

F.         Managing an effective program operation.

 

G.        Maintaining a commitment to professionalism.

 

H.        Observing and recording children's behavior.

 

I.          Understanding the development of children's language.

 

5.         An evaluation program that requires a professional review through observation and written assessment of:

 

A.        Competence in the core professional content areas.

 

B.        Interaction with children in the child care environment.

 

C.        Professional portfolio or file.

 

D.        Required training.

 

E.         Verbal and written communication skills.

 

6.         Observation and final assessment shall be done by an impartial committee or individual, not by the candidate's own director/employer.

 

7.         A renewal of the credential shall be required at least every 5 years and shall require at least 20 additional clock hours of training.  One semester hour of college is considered equivalent to 15 clock hours of formal in-service training.

 

8.         All training shall be documented.

 

Approved Credentials

 

Child Development Associate Credential

Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition

2460 16th Street, N.W.

Washington, DC 20009

1-800-424-4310

 

Certified Childcare Professional

National Child Care Association

1029 Railroad Street, N.W.

Conyers, Georgia 30207

1-800-543-7161

 

(Source:  Added at 25 Ill. Reg. 5281, effective April 1, 2001)

Section 408.APPENDIX G   Pre-Service and In-Service Training

 

a)         Entities that may provide pre-service and in-service training to meet the requirements of this Part include, but are not limited to:

 

1)         colleges and universities

 

2)         child care resource and referral agencies

 

3)         Illinois Department of Public Health or local health departments

 

4)         Office of the State Fire Marshal or local fire department

 

5)         Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

 

6)         Illinois Department of Human Services

 

7)         state or national child care or child advocacy organizations

 

8)         national, state or local family day care home associations

 

9)         Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsors

 

10)         Healthy Child Care Illinois nurses

 

11)         American Red Cross, American Heart Association and other providers of first aid and CPR training that have been approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health

 

b)         Topics or courses to meet the in-service training requirements include, but are not limited to:

 

1)         child care and child development

 

2)         guidance and discipline

 

3)         first aid and CPR

 

4)         symptoms of common childhood illness

 

5)         food preparation and nutrition

 

6)         health and sanitation

 

7)         small business management

 

8)         child abuse and neglect

 

9)         working with parents and families

 

10)         caring for children with disabilities

 

11)         information about asthma and its management

 

12)         Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) education (training is required for new applicants to care for newborns and infants, and every three years thereafter for the life of the license)

 

13)         service obligations under the federal Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)

 

14)         Shaken Baby Syndrome (training is required for new applicants and assistants licensed to care for newborns and infants, and every three years thereafter for the life of the license)

 

15)         Department approved Mandated Reporter Training (available on the Department's website; training is required for new applicants and assistants)

 

16)         Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) (training is required for new applicants and assistants licensed to care for newborns and infants, and every three years thereafter for the life of the license)

 

c)         Training

 

1)         Pre-service and in-service training may be acquired through the following:

 

A)        attending college or university or vocational school classes (clock hours spent in the classroom are counted)

 

B)        attending conferences or workshops (certificate or other proof of attendance, clock hours and subject matter is required)

 

C)        attending state or local child care association meetings when a specific training program is provided by a guest speaker or group member (documentation of attendance, subject matter and clock hours is required)

 

D)        in-home training by a Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsor representative, nurse or other trainer (documentation must include the topic and the clock hours)

 

E)        self-study materials provided by a child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agency (certification of clock hours must be secured from the CCR&R)

 

F)         internet home study programs if the internet site provides documentation of use and number of clock hours

 

G)        Mandated Reporter Training may be acquired through the Department's website at: https://www.dcfstraining.org/manrep/index.jsp

 

H)        viewing of the approved video offered by the National Institutes of Health Back to Sleep Campaign for SIDS and sleeping position of infants

 

2)         The training instructor, speaker or president of the child care organization sponsoring the training, may sign the documentation of completion.  The child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agency must sign and provide documentation of completion for self-study materials, and the internet site must provide documentation for home study programs.

 

d)         Licensed providers shall meet the 15 clock hour requirements for in-service training per period of licensing year. Caregivers obtaining clock hours in excess of the required 15 clock hours per year may apply up to 5 clock hours to the next year's training requirements.

 

e)         Courses/training approved by the Department in carrying for children with disabilities must include the following component:

 

•         Introduction to Inclusive Child Care

 

•         Understanding Child Development in Relation to Disabilities

 

•         Building Relationships with Families

 

•         Preparing for and Including Young Children in the Child Care Setting

 

•         Community Services for Young Children with Disabilities (including Early Intervention services)

 

(Source:  Amended at 40 Ill. Reg. 10808, effective July 29, 2016)

Section 408.APPENDIX H   Chart of Number and Ages of Children Served

 

408.65	Caregiver Alone	Caregiver & Assistant (Assistant must be 18 or older)	Extended Capacity (2 Assistants must be present)	Total
a)	1)   8 children under age 12			8
	of those 8: 5 under age 5
	of those 5: 3 under 24 months
	2)   8 children under age 12			8
	of those 8: 6 under age 5
	of those 6: 2 under 30 months
	3)   8 children under age 12			8
	of those 8: 0 under age 3
	4)  12 school-age children			12
	(ages 6 through 12, or age 5 if in full day kindergarten)
b)		1)   12 children ages		12
		3 through 6
		2)   12 children under age 12		12
		of those 12:
		6 under 30 months of age of those 6: 4 under 15 months of age
c)			12 children: see (b)(1) and (2) above, plus: 2)  4 school-agers with 1 full time and one part time assistant; or 3)  2 children ages 30 months of age or older; and 2 school-age children, with 2 adult assistants present	16     16

 

(Source:  Amended at 49 Ill. Reg. 8928, effective July 1, 2025)

Section 408.APPENDIX I   List of Items for Fire Safety Inspection

 

The Department shall notify the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) of the name and address of a group day care home initial licensure applicant. The following list of items shall be inspected by OSFM, or by a supervising agency licensing representative trained by OSFM to conduct fire safety inspections for licensure, license renewal or annual monitoring:

 

1.         The paths of escape, including doors and escape windows from the home, are kept operable and clear from obstruction (see Section 408.30(b))

 

2.         Smoke detectors are provided on each level of the home (including basements and second floors even if they are not used for child care) and in any room where children are allowed to nap or sleep (see Section 408.30(a)(4)(A))

 

3.         Smoke detectors are functioning (detected by pushing the test button) (see Section 408.30(a)(4)(A))

 

4.         Locks and deadbolts to exterior doors are operable without the use of a key, tool or special knowledge to open the door from inside the home to exit to the outside (see Section 408.30(b)(7))

 

5.         Occupants shall be able to escape the home without having to activate more than 2 releasing devices (e.g., door knobs, deadbolts, thumb-turn lock) on any door to the outside (see Section 408.30(b)(6))

 

6.         Bathroom doors shall be able to be opened by staff from outside the room if necessary (see Section 408.30(b)(4))      

 

7.         Closet doors shall be able to open from inside the closet without the use of a key (see Section 408.30(b)(5))

 

8.         Paths of escape from the home have operable lighting (light bulbs are in place and functioning) (see Section 408.30(b)(3))

 

9.         Protective covers for all electrical receptacles are provided in areas occupied by children (see Section 408.30(a)(3))

 

10.       Heating equipment in spaces occupied by children are separated by partitions, screens or other means to protect children from hot surfaces and open flames (see Section 408.30(a)(8))

 

11.       Carbon monoxide detectors are installed and operable in areas occupied by children (see Section 408.30(a)(5))

 

Operating Requirements (renewal and subsequent monitoring visits)

 

12.       There is a comprehensive written fire emergency response plan in the home (see Section 408.30(q))

 

13.       There are emergency egress and relocation monthly drills conducted by the caregiver with children participation (see Section 408.30(q)(4))

 

14.       Monthly basic fire safety inspections of the home are conducted by the caregiver or staff members in the home (see Section 408.30(b)(9))

 

15.       Daily fire safety inspections are done by the caregiver or staff to ensure that escape paths are clear and exit doors and escape windows are operable (see Section 408.30(b)(10))

 

16.       Corridors are clear of clothing and personal effects (see Section 408.30(b)(1))

 

17.       Flammable and combustible artwork and teaching materials attached directly to the walls are limited to no more than 20% of the wall area (see Section 408.30(a)(14))

 

18.        Caregiver and staff are awake and alert when children are present in the home (see Section 408.35(k))

                         

(Source:  Amended at 34 Ill. Reg. 18411, effective December 15, 2010)