State Implements New Child Care Regulations

A new set of rules from the Department of Public Welfare is changing the way Pennsylvania's child care centers operate. The new regulations were developed over a three year period with input from providers, advocates and members of the General Assembly and replace rules last drafted in 1994. The updated guidelines include: new health and safety requirements, recognition of children with special needs, improved facility compliance standards, mandatory training for new providers and increased communication between parents and providers regarding child development. In addition, the Department of Health has updated regulations bringing the immunization requirements at child care facilities in line with national standards.