12. Water Activity Supervision Requirements

Question 1

Water Activity Supervision Requirements

Answer 1

~ if a child care program allows the children to be in a swimming pool more than three-feet deep or uses a beach or lake for water activities, there must be a certified lifeguard present and on duty (if this person works for the child care program, they can be included in the staff-to-child ratio)
~ all swimming pool covers must be in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act
~ a ring buoy and rope, rescue tube, or a throwing line and Shepard’s hook that will not conduct electricity must be available if a swimming pool more than six feet in width, length, or diameter is being used and it must be long enough to reach the center of the pool, kept in good repair, and stored safely and conveniently for immediate access
~ child care personnel must be trained on the proper use of pool equipment
~ documentation must be maintained in the child care personnel file
~ wading pools, including inflatable water slides with landing areas where water collects, are prohibited

Question 2

There must be constant and active supervision when children are
in or around the water. While in the water, an adult must remain:

Answer 2

• In direct contact with an infant at all times
• Within an arm’s reach and in sight, otherwise known as “touch supervision,” of all children one year old and above

Question 3

The following minimum staff-to-child ratios must apply while children are swimming or wading:

Answer 3

AGE OF THE CHILDREN = MAXIMUM # OF CHILDREN ONE CAREGIVER CAN SUPERVISE
* Infants (Birth to 1 Year) = 1
* Toddlers (1 year up to 3 years) = 1
* Preschoolers (3 years up to 5 years) = 4
* School-Age children (5 years and older) = 10
* Mixed Age Groups = Ratio shall be based on the age of the youngest child present