Perhaps the most critical part of your success as a Day Care Center operator is diligently following the health and safety standards established by Columbus Public Health and the State of Ohio.
All CCCs and Type A Day Care Centers are required to:
• Obtain and display at all times a Food License;
• Provide the children with a balanced diet that meets state nutritional requirements;
• Ensure all equipment is in safe and good condition;
• Must pass a one-time building inspection to obtain your CCC license;
• Must conduct and pass an annual fire inspection;
• Conspicuously post Emergency plans.
Further, because parents are entrusting you with the care and well-being of their children, all CCC/Type A Day Care Centers must make available to parents or guardians:
• The age and number of children in your day care center as well as its licensed capacity;
• Hours your day care center will be open along with a calendar that shows days your center is open or closed;
• All fees;
• Discipline and Safety procedures;
• Menu of meals and snacks;
• Detailed emergency and health care procedures;
• A roster of names and contact information for the parents of each child (although parents can choose not to be listed);
• A parent participation plan;
• Dates of field trips and special outings;
• Information on licensing, center programs, and policies and procedures;
• Any information on licensing inspection and substantiated complaint investigation reports;
• The toll-free number or email to report any suspected violations at (877) 302-2347, opt. 4, or by email.
In addition to this information, parents or guardians have the right to see:
• All daily activities;
• All indoor and outdoor areas used by children;
• Any and all records on their child or children;
• And have unlimited access to the center during its hours of operation.
For your safety and the safety of the children and your employees, each child must have a physical exam and immunization prior to admission or within 30 days of enrollment.
Last, parent/staff conferences are required for children 5 years or younger. For children six or older, staff are to notify parents in writing that conferences are available at the parents request.
Continue To Step Four: Obtaining Your Day Care Center License