# COMAR Title 13A — State Board of Education

## Subtitle 15 — Family Child Care

### Chapter 05 — Home Environment and Equipment

#### Regulation .04 Rooms Used for Care.

*COMAR 13A.15.05.04*

A. The provider may use an area of the home for child care only if it:

  (1) Has been approved for use by the office;

  (2) Meets the requirements of all applicable fire codes;

  (3) Does not have a condition that may pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the children in care;

  (4) Has windows or artificial lighting that provides sufficient illumination for a child's activities;

  (5) Has natural or mechanical ventilation to provide a healthy and comfortable environment;

  (6) Has sufficient floor area for the number and ages of the children approved for care in the home to allow the children to engage in active play without overcrowding; and

  (7) Has a room temperature of not less than 65°F.

B. In rooms where a child younger than 5 years old is in care, the provider shall arrange the home so that:

  (1) All electrical sockets within reach of a child are plugged or capped;

  (2) Suitable protective barriers are placed at locations accessible and potentially hazardous to children; and

  (3) Child-proof devices are placed on cabinets and drawers that contain items potentially hazardous to children.

C. Window Coverings. A window covering installed:

  (1) Before October 1, 2010, may not have unsecured cords, beads, ropes, or strings that are accessible to a child in care; or

  (2) On or after October 1, 2010, shall be cordless.

D. In a home approved to provide care for infants or toddlers, the provider shall designate space for mothers to breastfeed or express breast milk that:

  (1) Is not located in a bathroom;

  (2) Has access to an electrical outlet;

  (3) Has appropriate seating;

  (4) Has access to running water; and

  (5) Accommodates a mother’s need for privacy.