# COMAR Title 10 — Maryland Department of Health

## Subtitle 21 — Behavioral Health Regulations

### Chapter 18 — Community Mental Health Programs — Therapeutic Nursery Programs

#### Regulation .11 Materials, Equipment, Furnishings, and Storage.

*COMAR 10.21.18.11*

A. Materials and Equipment. In addition to any other requirements of law or regulation, the therapeutic nursery program shall:

  (1) Provide a sufficient quantity and variety of materials and equipment for indoor and outdoor activities, according to the numbers and ages of the children enrolled, including materials and equipment for:

    (a) Vigorous play;

    (b) Creative or dramatic play;

    (c) Socialization;

    (d) Manipulation, including construction, exploration of art, music, language arts, and science; and

    (e) Individual pursuits;

  (2) Store materials and equipment so that they are accessible to a child at the appropriate time; and

  (3) Ensure that the materials and equipment used by children in the therapeutic nursery are:

    (a) Safe;

    (b) Clean;

    (c) Nontoxic;

    (d) Free from hazards, including lead paint;

    (e) In good repair; and

    (f) Age appropriate.

B. Furnishings. In addition to any other requirements of law or regulation, the therapeutic nursery program shall provide:

  (1) Furnishings that are proportional to a child's size; and

  (2) At least the following:

    (a) Multipurpose tables and chairs; and

    (b) A suitable crib, bed, cot, or mat and clean bedding for each child who requires a rest period during the hours of operation of the therapeutic nursery.

C. Storage. In addition to any other requirements of law or regulation, the therapeutic nursery program shall:

  (1) Provide storage for:

    (a) Materials and equipment that are for a child's use;

    (b) Portable equipment intended for outdoor use;

    (c) Beds and bedding when they are not in use;

    (d) Each child's clothing and possessions in a space designated for each child; and

    (e) Materials, equipment, furnishings, and supplies being held in reserve; and

  (2) Ensure that all potentially hazardous items, including knives, tools, poisonous and toxic materials, prescription and nonprescription medicines, cleaning materials, and matches, are stored:

    (a) In a safe manner;

    (b) When applicable, in original containers; and

    (c) Out of the reach of children.