department of health and social services
Division of Social Services
PROPOSED
PUBLIC NOTICE
Child Care Development Fund Services October 1, 2003 through September 30, 2005
In compliance with the State's Administrative Procedures Act (APA - Title 29, Chapter 101 of the Delaware Code) and under the authority of Title 31 of the Delaware Code, Chapter 5, Section 512, Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS) / Division of Social Services is proposing to amend the Division of Social Services Manual (DSSM) regarding the Child Care Development Fund Services for the period October 1, 2003 through September 30, 2005.
On June 1, 2005, DSS published a Notice of Intent to amend its state plan for Child Care Development Fund Services. Because of the substantive nature of these changes, DSS is now republishing this regulation as a proposal for public comment pursuant to 29 Del.C. §§10115 and 10118.
Any person who wishes to make written suggestions, compilations of data, testimony, briefs or other written materials concerning the proposed new regulations must submit same to Sharon L. Summers, Policy & Program Development Unit, Division of Social Services, P.O. Box 906, New Castle, Delaware 19720-0906 by August 31, 2005.
The action concerning the determination of whether to adopt the proposed regulation will be based upon the results of Department and Division staff analysis and the consideration of the comments and written materials filed by other interested persons.
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS
Statutory Basis
Summary of Amendment
1) Beginning June 2005 license exempt in-home providers are required to complete 45 hours of training consisting of Health, Safety & Nutrition (9 hours); CPR and First Aid (6 hours); Child Development (15 hours); Understanding Children's Behavior (12 hours); and Understanding Early Literacy and Language Development (3 hours).
2) Existing providers have six months upon notice from The Family & Workplace Connection (FWC) to enroll and complete required training.
3) New providers must complete training within 90 days of beginning their contract with the Division of Social Services. Classes are provided by the FWC and are offered during the day and evening.
DSS PROPOSED REGULATION #05-38
Section 6.4 - Health and Safety Requirements for In-Home Providers (658E(c)(2)(F), §§98.41, 98.16(j))
6.4.3 For in-home care that is NOT licensed, and therefore not reflected in NRCHSCC's compilation, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:
In-home providers: provide or maintain clean furnishings, free from rodents and insects; maintain documentation of immunization status; separate children with symptoms of illness from other children in care; provide a clean and sanitary place for storing and changing diapers; wash hands before and after diapering and before serving meals. In-home providers must self-certify that they intend to operate a healthy and safe facility.
In-home providers: Screens must be in good repair; protective receptacle covers for electrical; outlets have or have access to a working telephone; operable flash lights; first aid kits; adequate space for play and movement; storage of flammable materials away from children; kitchens must be clean and food storage areas clean; compliance with applicable community regulations; play equipment must be safe; outdoor area must be accessible by a safe route; play areas near hazards must be fenced or otherwise protected, in-home providers must self-certify.
In-home providers: must read and review information provided about health and safety, and attend Office of Child Licensing workshops as deemed necessary.
In addition, these providers must attend an initial DSS sponsored workshop. This workshop explains DSS rules for care, its reimbursement policies, payment and attendance reporting requirements, and provides tips for good child care and safety practices.
Also, the providers are required to have both a child abuse registry and criminal history check. A negative outcome results in termination of service.
Providers are required to have both a child abuse registry and criminal history check. A negative outcome results in termination of service.
In addition, these providers must attend an initial DSS sponsored workshop. This workshop explains DSS rules for care, its reimbursement policies, payment and attendance reporting requirements.
Beginning June 2005 license exempt in-home providers are required to complete 45 hours of training consisting of Health, Safety & Nutrition (9 hours); CPR and First Aid (6 hours); Child Development (15 hours); Understanding Children’s Behavior (12 hours); and Understanding Early Literacy and Language Development (3 hours).
Existing providers have six months upon notice from The Family & Workplace Connection (FWC) to enroll and complete required training.
New providers must complete training within 90 days of beginning their contract with the Division of Social Services. Classes are provided by the FWC and are offered during the day and evening.
