4. Legislative Intent

Question 1

Legislative Intent

Answer 1

Child care standards are established to protect the health and safety of children while in out-of-home care.

Question 2

Child Care Standards

(outlined in the Florida Statutes of the child care regulations)

Answer 2

demographic-wise and because of families who have employment outside of the home, the Legislature established child care standards:

~ children in quality early childhood education programs = better outcome throughout their lives (vs. children who are not in such programs)
~ the health and safety standards support all areas of children’s development, as well as the environment where care is provided
~ provide families with options for child care so they are able to make decisions that best align with their goals and needs
~ establishes the intent to protect the health, safety, and well-being of Florida’s children through the establishment of minimum standards of care for Florida

Question 3

The licensing standards established by the Department address the:

Answer 3

• Physical environment (health, sanitation, safety, and physical surroundings)
• Children in care (health, nutrition, and development)

Question 4

What is the MISSION and PURPOSE of Florida Department of Children and Families’ Office of Child Care Regulation?

Answer 4

Ensure the health, safety, well-being of the children of the state while in care through licensing and regulatory activities. The purpose of this program is to ensure that children are well cared for in a safe, healthy, positive, and educational environment by trained, qualified child care staff.