AR 608-10.pdf

Army Regulation 608–10

Personal Affairs

Child Development Services

Headquarters Department of the Army Washington, DC 15 July 1997

UNCLASSIFIED

SUMMARY of CHANGE

AR 608–10

Child Development Services

This change 1--o This (write-in) change implements the reissue of Department of Defense Instruction 6060.2, Child Development Programs.

o The change expands policy on administering medication to children with special needs, and revises policy on placement of children with disabilities in Child Development Services programs pursuant to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

o The change complies with the decision by the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in Hartmann et al. v. Stone et al. concerning religious activities in family child care provider homes.

o The change removes restrictions which prohibit religious activities in family child care and Supplemental Programs and Services provider homes and adds provisions ensuring parents receive prior notification of religious activities in family child care and Supplemental Programs and Services homes.

o Further, the change provides additional guidance and clarification for commanders and other leaders to enforce Army Child Development Services policies.

This revision--o Incorporates existing HQDA policy directives and field requests for specific guidance on Child Development Services (CDS) construction design criteria, the United States Department of Agriculture Child Care Food Program, staff training, management practices to minimize the risk of child abuse occurring in a CDS setting, health policies, staffing requirements, priorities for service, developmental programming, and quality assurance procedures.

o Expands Family Child Care (FCC) to include certification requirements, special endorsements, and claims (chap 6).

o Expands Supplemental Programs and Services (previously Supplemental/ Outreach Care Options) to include the School-Age/Latch Key Program;

delineates common support delivery systems; and lists optional care available to meet new mission requirements (chap 7).

o Adds consolidated criteria to include child abuse prevention standards necessary to meet CDS Standards (app C).

Headquarters Department of the Army Washington, DC 15 July 1997

Personal Affairs

Child Development Services

*Army Regulation 608–10

Effective 15 August 1997

H i s t o r y . T h i s p u b l i c a t i o n w a s o r i g i n a l l y p r i n t e d o n 1 2 F e b r u a r y 1 9 9 0 . I t w a s authenticated by Carl E. Vuono, General, U n i t e d S t a t e s A r m y C h i e f o f S t a f f , a n d M i l t o n H . H a m i l t o n , A d m i n i s t r a t i v e A s s i s t a n t t o t h e S e c r e t a r y o f t h e A r m y .

This electronic edition publishes the basic 1997 edition and incorporates Changes 1.

Change 1 to this regulation was printed on 15 July 1997. Change 1 was authenticated b y T o g o D . W e s t , J r . , S e c r e t a r y o f t h e Army.

Summary. This (write–in) change imple-ments the reissue of Department of De-f e n s e I n s t r u c t i o n 6 0 6 0 . 2 , C h i l d Development Programs. The change ex-pands policy on administering medication to children with special needs, and revises policy on placement of children with disa-b i l i t i e s i n C h i l d D e v e l o p m e n t S e r v i c e s p r o g r a m s p u r s u a n t t o t h e R e h a b i l i t a t i o n A c t o f 1 9 7 3 , a s a m e n d e d . T h e c h a n g e complies with the decision by the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Cir-cuit in Hartmann et al. v. Stone et al.

concerning religious activities in family child care provider homes. The change re-m o v e s r e s t r i c t i o n s w h i c h p r o h i b i t r e l i -gious activities in family child care and

Supplemental Programs and Services pro-vider homes and adds provisions ensuring parents receive prior notification of reli-gious activities in family child care and S u p p l e m e n t a l P r o g r a m s a n d S e r v i c e s homes. Further, the change provides addi-tional guidance and clarification for com-m a n d e r s a n d o t h e r l e a d e r s t o e n f o r c e A r m y C h i l d D e v e l o p m e n t S e r v i c e s policies.

Applicability.

a. This regulation applies to—

(1) The Regular Army.

(2) The U.S Army Reserve (USAR) on active duty, active duty for training, or special active duty for training (30 days or more duration).

(3) The Army National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) on active duty, active duty for training, or special active duty for training under title 10, United States Code (30 days or more duration).

(4) Members of other uniformed serv-ices (and their families) assigned to Army installations.

(5) Others entitled to care in medical treatment facilities (MTFs).

b. This regulation does not apply to members of the USAR performing inac-tive duty training or to members of the ARNGUS performing duty in a State sta-tus under title 32, United States Code.

Proponent and exception authority.

The proponent of this regulation is the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management. The proponent has the au-thority to approve exceptions to this regu-lation that are consistent with controlling law and regulation. Proponents may dele-gate this approval authority, in writing, to a d i v i s i o n c h i e f w i t h i n t h e p r o p o n e n t agency in the grade of colonel or the ci-vilian equivalent.

Army management control process.

This regulation contains management con-t r o l p r o v i s i o n s i n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h A R 11–2, but does not contain checklists for conducting management control reviews.

Alternative management control reviews a r e u s e d t o a c c o m p l i s h a s s e s s m e n t o f management controls.

S u p p l e m e n t a t i o n . S u p p l e m e n t a t i o n o f this regulation and establishment of com-mand and local forms are prohibited with-out prior approval from the United States A r m y C o m m u n i t y a n d F a m i l y S u p p o r t C e n t e r ( U S A C F S C ) ( C F S C – S F – C Y ) , 2 4 6 1 E i s e n h o w e r A v e n u e , A l e x a n d r i a , VA 22331–0521.

Interim changes. Rescinded.

Suggested Improvements. Users are invited to send comments and suggested improvements on DA Form 2028 (Recom-m e n d e d C h a n g e s t o P u b l i c a t i o n s a n d Blank Forms) directly to the Commander, U.S. Army Community and Family Sup-p o r t C e n t e r , A T T N : C F S C – S F – C Y , Alexandria, VA 22331–0521.

Distribution. Distribution of this publi-cation is made in accordance with the ini-t i a l d i s t r i b u t i o n n u m b e r ( I D N ) 0 9 3 6 3 6 , intended for command levels C, D, and E for Active Army, Army National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserve.

*This regulation supersedes AR 608–10, 15 October 1983.

AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997 i

UNCLASSIFIED

Contents (Listed by paragraph and page number)

Chapter 1 Structure and Policy, page 1

Section I General, page 1 Purpose • 1–1, page 1 References • 1–2, page 1 Explanation of abbreviations and terms • 1–3, page 1 Child Development Services (CDS) program objectives • 1–4, page 1 Criteria for establishing CDS delivery systems • 1–5, page 1 Child eligibility criteria • 1–6, page 2

Section II Overview, page 3 CDS concept • 1–7, page 3 CDS policy • 1–8, page 3 CDS organization • 1–9, page 4

Chapter 2 Program Oversight, page 5

Section I Responsibilities, page 5 Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) • 2–1, page 5 Major Army commands (MACOMs) • 2–2, page 6 Installation commanders • 2–3, page 7

Section II Assessment and Compliance, page 9 General • 2–4, page 9 CDS Installation Child Care Evaluation Team Review • 2–5, page 9 CDS program compliance and oversight • 2–6, page 10 Crimes prevention surveys • 2–7, page 10 State licensing • 2–8, page 10 Patron satisfaction • 2–9, page 10 CDS Program Review Board (PRB) • 2–10, page 10 Exceptions to policy • 2–11, page 10

Section III Recordkeeping Requirements, page 11 General • 2–12, page 11 Child records • 2–13, page 11 Employee records • 2–14, page 13 Program records • 2–15, page 13 Operational records • 2–16, page 13 CDS needs assessment and construction project validation • 2–17, page 13

Section IV Reporting Requirements, page 14 General • 2–18, page 14 Patron reporting requirements • 2–19, page 14 CDS operational reporting requirements • 2–20, page 14 CDS reporting requirements to parents • 2–21, page 18 ii AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Contents—Continued

Section V Child Abuse Prevention and Response, page 18 General • 2–22, page 18 Response to allegations of child abuse in CDS settings • 2–23, page 19 CDS background clearance requirements • 2–24, page 20 Youth applicants • 2–25, page 21 Management procedures for minimizing the potential risk of abusive situations in center settings • 2–26, page 21 Management procedures for minimizing the potential risk of abusive situations in FCC homes • 2–27, page 22 CDS touch policy • 2–28, page 23 Child abuse prevention education • 2–29, page 23 Child abuse risk avoidance • 2–30, page 24 DOD Child Abuse and Safety Violation Hotline • 2–31, page 24 Inspections and Certification • 2–32, page 24 Installation Child Care Availability Plan (ICCAP) • 2–33, page 25

Chapter 3 Program Management, page 26

Section I Funding, page 26 General • 3–1, page 26 APF support • 3–2, page 26 Common table of allowances (CTA) authorizations • 3–3, page 27 NAF support • 3–4, page 27 Patron fees and charges • 3–5, page 27 Supplemental funding sources • 3–6, page 29 USDA CACFP funding • 3–7, page 29 Contracting CDS activities and services • 3–8, page 29

Section II Personnel, page 30 General • 3–9, page 30 Position descriptions • 3–10, page 30 Staffing criteria • 3–11, page 30 CDS management personnel • 3–12, page 31 CDS caregiving employees and FCC providers • 3–13, page 35 CDS support personnel • 3–14, page 35 CDS volunteers • 3–15, page 36 Program guidance • 3–16, page 37

Section III Training, page 37 General • 3–17, page 37 Individual Education Plan (IDP) • 3–18, page 38 CDS management personnel • 3–19, page 39 Specialized management training • 3–20, page 40

Section IV Community Relations, page 40 Program publicity • 3–21, page 40 Public relations • 3–22, page 40 CDS parent advisory/support groups • 3–23, page 41 Government agencies, professional organizations, and civic groups • 3–24, page 41

Section V Parent Relations, page 41 iiiAR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Parent involvement • 3–25, page 41 Parent information/education • 3–26, page 41

Chapter 4 Program Core Requirements, page 45

Section I Overview, page 45 General • 4–1, page 45 Structure and policy • 4–2, page 45

Section II Program Management Compliance Requirements, page 46 Management oversight • 4–3, page 46 USDA CACFP • 4–4, page 47 CDS central enrollment registry • 4–5, page 47

Section III Program Operations Compliance Requirements, page 48 Admission criteria • 4–6, page 48 Program enrollment • 4–7, page 48 Daily admission and release procedures • 4–8, page 49 Limitations of service • 4–9, page 49 Discipline • 4–10, page 49 Transportation • 4–11, page 50 Television/radio • 4–12, page 50 Rest and quiet • 4–13, page 50 Diapering and toileting • 4–14, page 51 Night care • 4–15, page 51

Section IV Developmental Programming Compliance Requirements, page 52 General • 4–16, page 52 Child/family orientation • 4–17, page 52 Management • 4–18, page 52 Space • 4–19, page 52 Time • 4–20, page 52 Equipment and materials • 4–21, page 53 Caregiving competencies • 4–22, page 53 Age group program requirements • 4–23, page 53

Section V Health Compliance Requirements, page 54 General • 4–24, page 54 Adult health requirements • 4–25, page 54 Child health requirements • 4–26, page 55 Care of children infected with HIV • 4–27, page 55 Illness criteria for denial of service • 4–28, page 55 Readmission following illness • 4–29, page 56 Administrative health procedures • 4–30, page 56 Medical care after admission • 4–31, page 56 Administering medication and Performing Caregiving Health Practices • 4–32, page 57 Program health and sanitation practices • 4–33, page 58 Pets and plants • 4–34, page 58 iv AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Section VI Food and Nutrition Compliance Requirements, page 58 Nutrition • 4–35, page 58 Meals and snack service • 4–36, page 59 Food service operations • 4–37, page 59

Section VII Facility Compliance Requirements, page 60 CDC facility compliance requirements • 4–38, page 60 FCC facility compliance requirements • 4–39, page 60

Section VIII Fire Prevention Compliance Requirements, page 60 CDC fire prevention compliance requirements • 4–40, page 60 FCC fire prevention compliance requirements • 4–41, page 60

Section IX Safety Compliance Requirements, page 60 CDC safety compliance requirements • 4–42, page 60 FCC safety compliance requirements • 4–43, page 60

Chapter 5 CDC System Component Requirements, page 60

Section I Overview, page 60 General • 5–1, page 60 Structure and policy • 5–2, page 60

Section II Program Management Compliance Requirements, page 62 Management oversight • 5–3, page 62 Parent involvement • 5–4, page 62 Business operations • 5–5, page 63 CDC food service program • 5–6, page 63

Section III Personnel Management Compliance Requirements, page 64 CDS personnel criteria • 5–7, page 64 CDC staff training • 5–8, page 64 Staff meetings • 5–9, page 66 Child abuse prevention and response • 5–10, page 66

Section IV Program Operations Compliance Requirements, page 66 Operating hours • 5–11, page 66 Standing operating procedures (SOPs) • 5–12, page 67 Age composition, ratios, and group sizes • 5–13, page 68 Staffing patterns • 5–14, page 69 Supervision of CDS personnel • 5–15, page 69 Program oversight for new caregiving employees • 5–16, page 70 Supervision of children • 5–17, page 70

Section V Developmental Programming Compliance Requirement, page 71 General • 5–18, page 71 vAR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Schedule of developmental activities • 5–19, page 71 Organization of Indoor child activity spaces • 5–20, page 71 Indoor program equipment and materials. • 5–21, page 72 Child activity space furnishings. • 5–22, page 72 Organization and design of outdoor child activity spaces • 5–23, page 73 Outdoor program equipment and materials • 5–24, page 73

Section VI Facility Compliance Requirements, page 74 Facility designation • 5–25, page 74 Facility funding and programming guidance • 5–26, page 74 Facility design and alterations • 5–27, page 74 Facility location • 5–28, page 75 Facility size • 5–29, page 75 Facility capacity • 5–30, page 75 Child activity space requirements • 5–31, page 75 Administrative and program support space requirements • 5–32, page 76 Administrative and program support space furnishings • 5–33, page 76 Facility security requirements • 5–34, page 76 Interior design • 5–35, page 77 Maintenance and repair • 5–36, page 77 Custodial and housekeeping services • 5–37, page 77 Insect and rodent control • 5–38, page 78 Circulation and ventilation • 5–39, page 78 Power • 5–40, page 78 Lighting • 5–41, page 78 Climate control • 5–42, page 78 Noise levels • 5–43, page 78

Section VII Fire Prevention Compliance Requirements, page 79 Fire prevention structural requirements • 5–44, page 79 Fire protection systems • 5–45, page 79 Exit criteria • 5–46, page 79 Fire prevention operational requirements • 5–47, page 79

Section VIII Safety Compliance Requirements, page 80 Safety structural requirements • 5–48, page 80 Safety operational requirements • 5–49, page 80

Section IX Health and Nutrition Compliance Requirements, page 81 Health inspection requirements • 5–50, page 81 Appliances and equipment • 5–51, page 81 Sick child care • 5–52, page 81

Section X Program Oversight and Quality Assurance, page 81 Facility upgrade/program compliance status • 5–53, page 81 Program evaluation • 5–54, page 81

Chapter 6 FCC System Component Requirements, page 82 vi AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Section I Overview, page 82 General • 6–1, page 82 Structure and policy • 6–2, page 82

Section II Program Management Compliance Requirements, page 83 Management oversight • 6–3, page 83 Parent involvement • 6–4, page 83 Business operations • 6–5, page 83 Resource/toy lending library • 6–6, page 83 USDA CACFP • 6–7, page 84 Child abuse prevention and response • 6–8, page 84

Section III FCC Provider and Home Certification, page 84 Home categories • 6–9, page 84 Recruitment and screening of potential providers • 6–10, page 85 Background clearances • 6–11, page 85 Provider applicant criteria • 6–12, page 86 Substitute provider criteria • 6–13, page 86 Provider and home certification • 6–14, page 86 Provider records • 6–15, page 87 Provider reporting requirements • 6–16, page 88 Certification status • 6–17, page 88 Provider transfer • 6–18, page 89 Claims Arising from the Activities of FCC Providers • 6–19, page 89 Training • 6–20, page 90 Specialized training • 6–21, page 90

Section IV Program Operations Compliance Requirements, page 91 Operating hours • 6–22, page 91 Attendance records • 6–23, page 91 Standing operating procedures (SOPs) • 6–24, page 91 Discipline • 6–25, page 92 Age composition, ratios, and group size • 6–26, page 92 Staffing patterns • 6–27, page 93 Supervision of children • 6–28, page 93

Section V Developmental Programming Compliance Requirements, page 93 General • 6–29, page 93 Developmental programming requirements • 6–30, page 93 Program materials, toys and equipment • 6–31, page 94 Indoor child activity spaces • 6–32, page 94 Outdoor child activity spaces • 6–33, page 95 Program oversight for FCC providers • 6–34, page 95 Provider and home compliance • 6–35, page 95 Noncompliance/suspension/revocation of certificates • 6–36, page 95 Investigation of complaints • 6–37, page 95 Unauthorized child care • 6–38, page 96 Care at remote sites/small installations • 6–39, page 96 viiAR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Section VI Health and Nutrition Compliance Requirements, page 97 Health inspection requirements • 6–40, page 97 Sanitation operational requirements • 6–41, page 97

Section VII Facility Compliance Requirements, page 97 Facilities requirements • 6–42, page 97 Maintenance and repair • 6–43, page 98 Lighting • 6–44, page 98 Circulation and ventilation • 6–45, page 98 Climate control • 6–46, page 98 Standards for privately or commercially owned housing on a military installation • 6–47, page 98

Section VIII Fire Prevention Compliance Requirements, page 99 Fire prevention structural requirements • 6–48, page 99 Fire prevention operational requirements • 6–49, page 99

Section IX Safety Compliance Requirements, page 99 Safety structural requirements • 6–50, page 99 Safety operational requirements • 6–51, page 100 Program evaluation • 6–52, page 101

Chapter 7 SPS System Component Requirements, page 106

Section I Overview, page 106 General • 7–1, page 106 Structure and policy • 7–2, page 107

Section II Program Management Compliance Requirements, page 108 Management oversight • 7–3, page 108 Parent involvement • 7–4, page 108 Business operations • 7–5, page 108 SPS resource/lending library • 7–6, page 109 USDA CACFP • 7–7, page 109 SPS personnel criteria • 7–8, page 109 Training • 7–9, page 109 Child abuse prevention and response • 7–10, page 109

Section III Program Operations Compliance Requirements, page 109 Operating hours • 7–11, page 109 Standing operating procedures (SOPs) • 7–12, page 109 Age composition, ratios, and group sizes • 7–13, page 110

Section IV Compliance References, page 110 Program management references • 7–14, page 110 Program operations references • 7–15, page 110 Developmental programming references • 7–16, page 110 viii AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Section V Common Support SPS Compliance Requirements, page 110 General • 7–17, page 110 Parent education services • 7–18, page 110 Volunteer services in CDS programs • 7–19, page 111 CDS resource and referral services • 7–20, page 111 CDS central enrollment registry • 7–21, page 113

Section VI SAS Program Compliance Requirements, page 113 General • 7–22, page 113 School–age Services models • 7–23, page 113 Operational guidance • 7–24, page 113

Section VII Optional SPS Programs Compliance Requirements, page 114 General • 7–25, page 114 Short term alternative child care (STACC) • 7–26, page 114 Volunteer child care in unit settings (VCCUS) • 7–27, page 115 Parent co–ops • 7–28, page 116 Special interest programs • 7–29, page 116 CDS baby-sitting training and referral service • 7–30, page 117 SPS homes • 7–31, page 118 Foster Grandparent Program • 7–32, page 119 General Services Administration (GSA) space • 7–33, page 119 Contract operations • 7–34, page 119 Alternative sick child care program • 7–35, page 120 Private organizations • 7–36, page 120

Section VIII Compliance Requirements, page 120 Facility references • 7–37, page 120 Fire prevention references • 7–38, page 120 Safety references • 7–39, page 120 Health and nutrition references • 7–40, page 120

Section IX Program Oversight and Quality Assurance, page 121 Facility upgrade compliance status • 7–41, page 121 Program evaluation • 7–42, page 121

Appendixes

A. References, page 129

B. Appropriated and Nonappropriated Fund Support, page 134

C. Single Source Criteria, page 136

D. Instructions for Completing DA Form 5246–R (Child Development Services (CDS) Program Report), page 265

Table List

Table 2–1: Records screening requirements, page 20 Table 5–1: CDC ratios and group sizes, page 68 Table 5–2: CDC ratios and group sizes (as of 1 Oct 90), page 69 Table 6–1: FCC home ratios and group size, page 92 Table 7–1: Supplemental Programs and Services Summary Requirements, page 121 ixAR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Table C–1: USDA meal requirements 12 months–12 years, page 187 Table C–2: USDA meal requirements 4 weeks–12 months, page 187 Table C–3: USDA meal requirements for ages 12 months–12 years., page 227 Table C–4: USDA meal requirements for ages 4 weeks–12 months., page 228 Table C–5: FCC home ratio and group size, page 233

Figure List

Figure 1–1: Army Child Development Services, page 4 Figure 2–1: Sample Outline for Child Development Services (CDS) Information Paper, page 17 Figure 3–1: Installation staffing pattern, page 42 Figure 3–2: Child Development Services (CDS) Individual Education Plan (IDP) annual inservice training review, Figure 3–2: Child Development Services (CDS) Individual Education Plan (IDP) annual inservice training review—

Continued, page 44 Figure 6–1: Sample FCC provisional certification document, page 102 Figure 6–2: Sample certification document, page 103 Figure 6–3: Provider Statement of Understanding Regarding Family Child Care, page 104 Figure 6–4: Parental Statement of Understanding Regarding Family Child Care, page 105 Figure 7–1: Sample format for patron statement of understanding regarding child care resource and referral service, Figure 7–2: Sample format for consent for inclusion on the Child Development Services (CDS) baby-sitter referral list, page 127 Figure 7–3: Sample format for parental consent for inclusion on the Child Development Services (CDS) baby-sitter referral list, page 128 Figure C–1: Army Child Development Services background checks, page 250 Figure C–2: Army child development center inspections, page 251 Figure C–2: Army child development center inspections—Continued, page 252 Figure C–2: Army child development center inspections—Continued, page 253 Figure C–3: Army family child care inspections, page 254 Figure C–3: Army family child care inspections—Continued, page 255 Figure C–3: Army family child care inspections—Continued, page 256 Figure C–3: Army family child care inspections—Continued, page 257 Figure C–4: Anthropometric chart for a child–scaled environment, page 258 Figure C–5: Food chart, page 259 Figure C–6: Child care food program infant meal pattern, page 260 Figure C–7: Method of hand washing, page 261 Figure C–8: Method of changing diapers, page 262 Figure C–9: Toxic Plant Listing, page 263 Figure C–10: Non–Toxic Plant Listing, page 263

Glossary

Index x AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

Chapter 1 Structure and Policy

Section I General

1–1. Purpose This regulation prescribes policy and procedures for establishing and operating Army Child Development Services (CDS). The format of this regulation is as follows:

a. Chapters 1 through 4 apply to the following three CDS delivery systems: Child Development Centers (CDC), Family Child Care (FCC), and Supplemental Programs and Services (SPS).

b. Chapter 5 applies specifically to CDC and selected SPS programs in center–based settings.

c. Chapter 6 applies specifically to FCC and selected SPS programs.

d. Chapter 7 applies to the SPS delivery system.

e. Appendix C contains additional guidance specific to program areas.

1–2. References Required and related publications are listed in appendix A. Prescribed and referenced forms are also listed in appendix A.

1–3. Explanation of abbreviations and terms Abbreviations and special terms used in this regulation are explained in the glossary.

1–4. Child Development Services (CDS) program objectives The objectives of Army CDS are to—

a. Promote the quality of the force by—

(1) Supporting readiness by reducing lost duty time due to conflict between parental responsibilities and unit mission requirements. Child development programs will, in priority order—

(a) Assist DOD military and civilian personnel working parent or full–time students parents of children under the age of 6 to locate at least one affordable option for quality child care.

(b) Assist DOD military and civilian personnel who are working parents or full–time student parents of school–age children in locating at least one affordable option for quality child care.

(c) Expand the availability of care through use of resource and referral (R&R) programs to quality affordable options both on and off the installation.

(d) Whenever possible, support the needs of personnel for hourly care and part–day preschool programs in facilities and programs other than the Child Development Centers.

(2) Promoting military retention by providing services that increase soldier satisfaction with the Army as a way of life.

(3) Contributing to the quality of life and well–being of families in the command with young children.

b. Support parental child–rearing responsibilities by providing developmentally appropriate quality care options for children.

c. Operate using measurable standards and compliance assurance procedures to ensure that continuity and consis-tency of CDS operations exist Army–wide.

d. Contribute favorably to the growth and development of children while they are in the Army’s care.

e. Support Service families in their effort to attain economic self–sufficiency by providing accessible and affordable child care for working parents.

f. Provide employment and career advancement opportunities within CDS programs for military and Department of

Defense (DOD) civilian family members.

g. Support community activities in their effort to improve the quality of life by providing accessible and affordable child care for community volunteers.

1–5. Criteria for establishing CDS delivery systems

a. The need for CDS for military members and DOD civilian employees shall be determined by local needs and such factors as—

(1) The number of military and civilian personnel needing child care services.

(2) The need to support readiness and to address military child care during deployments, mobilization, and other missions of the military installation.

(3) Problems in recruitment or retention of military and civilian personnel resulting from a lack of child care services.

1AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

(4) Absenteeism or productivity problems that could be alleviated by reliable child care services.

(5) Availability of comparable services at comparable rates in the private sector.

b. Army CDS delivery systems should be established at installations that—

(1) Are not tenants or satellites of a host installation.

(2) Authorized families to join their sponsors.

(3) Have a total installation population of 1,000 or more (DA Pam 570–551).

c. The establishment of a CDS delivery system(s) is strongly recommended and is authorized at installations that may not meet one or more of the conditions in a above if—

(1) Off–post child care resources are limited.

(2) The complexity of social problems require special programming.

(3) Off–post child care is too costly.

d. This regulation does not apply to the care given to children—

(1) In the home of, or by the parent, guardian, or relatives.

(2) By individuals providing short–term intermittent care in their homes when care does not exceed a total of 10 child hours per week on a regular basis.

(3) By an individual in the child’s home.

(4) By DOD schools.

(5) In public school programs.

e. With exception of required CDS adult/child ratios and background check requirements, this regulation does not apply to the care given to children—

(1) In chapel settings where care is limited to short periods while parents are in attendance at religious services or related functions on the premises or immediately accessible to child activity spaces where care is being given.

(2) In religious educating programs of limited duration such as vacation Bible school.

1–6. Child eligibility criteria

a. Active duty military personnel, APF and NAF DOD civilian personnel, reservists on active duty or during inactive duty personnel training, and DOD contractors are eligible to use all Army operated or sponsored child development programs (CDC, FCC, and SPS).

(1) Each installation commander shall establish a written priority system which clearly states military and civilian access to CDS programs. This written policy will be available to all eligible patrons who want to enroll their children in installation operated or sponsored child development programs. The written policy should consider the installation mission and demographics when determining military and civilian access.

(2) The installation policy will give first priority for child care to active duty military and DOD civilian personnel who are either single parents; or parents whose spouse is employed on a full–time basis outside the home or is a military member on active duty. Spouses may be military members on active duty, employed full–time outside the home by a government agency or a private sector employer, or full–time students. Installation commanders shall determine on a case–by–case basis whether spouses employed on a full–time basis but working within the home shall be included in the full–time working parent patrons category.

(3) First priority patrons (paragraph 1–6 a (2) above) shall be referred to as full–time working parent patrons in policy documents.

(4) Policies for full–time working parent patrons must be based on one of the following categories. The installation will—

(a) Serve all full–time working parent patrons on a first come first served basis; or

(b) Serve all full–time working parent patrons who are single parents first, then all active duty military and DOD civilians with a working spouse second, or vice versa; or

(c) Serve all full–time working parent patrons who are single parents on active duty and all active duty military with a working spouse first, then all full–time working parent patrons who are DOD civilians and DOD civilians with a working spouse second or vice versa;

(d) Serve all full–time working parent patrons on a military/civilian percentage basis, allotting child care spaces to military and civilian patrons which reflect the percentage of the total military and civilian workforce on the installation;

or

(e) Serve all full–time working parent patrons assigned/attached to the installation before serving full–time working parent patrons who are not assigned/attached to the installation; or

(f) Other combinations of first priority full–time working parent patrons.

b. At least 80 percent of the existing operational capacity of CDC facilities shall be used for full day and part day care if there is an excess demand waiting list for either type of care. Use of this space for part–day preschool, school–age before and after school or hourly care programs is restricted to 20 percent of the existing operational capacity. Part day preschool, before and after school and hourly care programs may be offered in other suitable facilities.

2 AR 608–10 • 15 July 1997

c. When the number of full–time working parent patrons on the excess demand waiting list exceeds 15 percent of the existing CDS operational capacity, the installation commander shall expand full–day child care spaces both on and off the installation by:

(1) Actively recruiting for more FCC and or SPS providers; or

(2) Increasing the installation CDS R & R services to locate viable off–post child care options; or

(3) Contracting for spaces in off–post programs.

d. A child already attending a program generally should not be displaced to allow room for a child with higher priority.

e. Written installation policies are available which address priorities for service and procedures for filling child care spaces. The most current procedural guidance on waiting list management from HQDA, to include sibling priority and placement of special needs children, will be followed.

Section II Overview

1–7. CDS concept

a. CDS is a network of child care delivery systems through which the Army provides quality child development options that reduce the conflict between parental responsibilities and unit mission requirements. Increasing numbers of sole and dual military parents, coupled with an increase in working spouses and the frequent relocation of Service families, have combined to increase demand for child care.

b. Soldiers look to the military establishment to provide services that assist parents in their child–rearing responsibil-ities. The military family does not have the stability of an established neighborhood or the proximity of relatives to allow for a constant and reliable child care plan. Off–post civilian programs are often inaccessible, unaffordable, and have limited operating hours. Most private child care operations do not provide care for infants or toddlers, have no hourly services, and have waiting lists for vacancies. Off–post family day care homes are often not licensed or certified and may be unmonitored for health, safety, and quality of service factors.

c. CDS is designed to assist commanders in fulfilling their morale and welfare responsibilities to soldiers and their families. CDS should identify child care needs and coordinate installation resources to meet service demand. To effectively accomplish this task, command commitment to and involvement in CDS operations is essential.

d. Child care is not considered an entitlement, CDS is offered as a supplement to, not a substitute for the family as the primary agent for the care and development of the child. Quality CDS options can strengthen and sustain child and parent relationships. However, the Army and parents should work together to ensure that these options for care will exist.

e. CDS offers care options with various types of service, locations, hours of operation, and fee schedules that are responsive to the needs of military families living both on and off–post.

(1) CDC services within centralized installation facilities offer closely monitored, structured group experiences relevant to the age and development of the child.

(2) FCC homes within government owned or leased quarters, or privately owned housing on an installation offer a family atmosphere with a limited number of children, flexible hours, and the capability of addressing special requirements.

(3) SPS increase child care capabilities by providing on and off–post alternative child care programs and support services.

1–8. CDS policy

a. CDS is a basic family program.

b. Services offered will support mission requirements and Army quality of life standards.

c. Installation commanders are authorized to provide full–day, part–day, and hourly services in CDCs, FCC homes, and in SPS delivery systems as needed. Services provided should reflect assessed needs for infant, toddler, pres-chool–age, and school–age care.

d. Services will be responsive to needs of patrons living on and off–post.

e. All FCC within Government owned or leased quarters or privately owned housing located on an installation must occur in CDS certified FCC homes.

f. Facilities used by center–based programs, designated SPS settings, and family housing units certified for quar-ters–based care must meet DOD and Army CDS standards.

g. All CDS program operations will be developmental in nature with appropriate staff, facilities, equipment and materials, and program experience. Care provided to children will foster and develop a child’s physical, intellectual, social, and emotional capabilities regardless of the setting or length of time in care.

h. All programs offered within CDS will be staffed with professionally qualified child development management personnel, trained caregiving employees, FCC providers, and other caregiving adults.

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i. The dissemination of religious information (e. g. grace) or materials is prohibited as well as providing program activities that teach or promote religious doctrine. Programs operated by chaplains, and programs conducted in FCC and SPS provider homes are exempt from this restriction.

j. Services within the CDS delivery systems will be available and affordable to all eligible patrons.

k. All program operations within CDS delivery systems will be evaluated annually by an internal review and evaluation process.

l. Delivery of services will be provided directly through Army operated or regulated programs and/or through public agencies and independent contractors. Regardless of the nature of service delivery provided, the CDS coordinator position will be maintained at the installation to monitor all services for compliance with pertinent regulations.

1–9. CDS organization

a. CDS will be established as a separate, but equivalent, program to Army Community Service (ACS) and Youth

Services (YS) located within the Family Support Division within the standard installation organization.

b. Installation programs and services should be organized within the service delivery systems shown in figure 1–1.

Figure 1-1. Army Child Development Services

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Chapter 2 Program Oversight

Section I Responsibilities

2–1. Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA)

a. The Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management (ACSIM) has overall responsibility for policy guidance in implementing CDS. The Commander, USACFSC will perform the following functions for the ACSIM:

(1) To the extent permitted by law, formulate DA policy on CDS using the criteria shown below:

(a) Does the action strengthen or erode the stability of the family and, in particular, the marital commitment?

(b) Does the action strengthen or erode the authority and rights of parents in the education, nurture, and supervision of their children?

(c) Does the action help the family perform its functions or substitute governmental activity for the function?

(d) Does the action increase or decrease family earnings? Do the proposed benefits of the action justify the impact on the family budget?

(e) Can the activity be carried out by a lower level of Government, or by the family itself?

(f) What message, intended or otherwise, does the program send to the public concerning the status of the family?

(g) What message does the program send to young people concerning the relationship between their behavior, their personal responsibility, and the norms of our society?

(2) Ensure HQDA CDS personnel are professionally qualified.

(3) Identify CDS needs and resource requirements to Army leadership.

b. The Chief, Soldier and Family Support Directorate, Child and Youth Services Division within the USACFSC will—

(1) Establish and maintain plans, policy, administrative procedures, program materials, and operational guidance for

CDS delivery systems.

(2) Define professional standards for CDS program development and operation.

(3) Develop and publish minimum standards as defined by appropriate Department of Army (DA) staff proponents for fire, health, facilities, safety, and prevention of child abuse.

(4) Develop and approve functional design requirements for CDS facilities in coordination with the Office of the

Chief of Engineers (CEEC–EA) and the DA Facility Standardization Subcommittee for CDS Facilities.

(5) Exercise program oversight of CDS Military Construction, Army (MCA) Program and upgrade or waiver status of existing facilities.

(6) Develop and approve program materials to address special needs programs, nutrition, health, and child abuse in child development settings from a CDS operational perspective.

(7) Develop an Army–wide comprehensive CDS standard training plan for all levels of CDS employees and FCC providers.

(8) Support training workshops sponsored by major Army commands (MACOMs) for installation CDS personnel.

(9) Visit, monitor, and provide technical assistance to MACOMs and installations.

(10) Approve and monitor CDS programs and facilities for participation in the United States Department of

Agriculture (USDA) Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

(11) Coordinate and submit CDS resource requirements through program and budget channels to include oversight of CDS Management Decision Package (MDEP) execution.

(12) Distribute CDS resources as required to MACOMs.

(13) Consult and coordinate with related activities within DOD as well as other agencies and organizations to broaden input on CDS policy issues.

(14) Develop guidance for statements of work for contracting the management and operation of CDS Programs.

(15) Function as the proponent for CDS issues and initiatives in support of the Army Family Action Plan (AFAP), General Accounting Office (GAO) studies, Congressional inquiries and special actions.

(16) Coordinate and monitor research efforts and initiatives impacting on CDS programs.

(17) Develop and implement a quality assurance system in coordination with MACOMs to assess program effective-ness, quality of service, and the efficiency of overall CDS operations.

(18) Collect and analyze MACOM and installation CDS data for compliance with DOD and Army program and facility standards, and determine resource requirements, program trends, and initiatives that have an impact on CDS policy.

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(19) Conduct periodic announced and unannounced onsite inspections with ARSTAF regulatory proponents to determine installation compliance with policy fire, health, nutrition, safety, program, child abuse, and facility structural standards; and report findings as directed to ACSIM, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs ASA(M&RA), and the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Family Support, Education and Safety).

(20) Write and distribute an Army CDS Resource List annually.

c. The Surgeon General (TSG) (DASG–PSP) will—

(1) Develop CDS health standards and related health aspects of CDS and oversee implementation of nutrition standards.

(2) Provide professional services and technical assistance required to support CDS programs to include preventive medicine and community health nursing personnel, pediatricians, and child psychiatrists.

(3) Staff policy related to health, nutritional, environmental, and sanitation aspects of CDS facilities and program operations.

d. The Director of Army Safety (DACS–SF) will—

(1) Develop CDS safety standards.

(2) Provide technical assistance relative to the safety aspects of CDS facilities and operations.

e. The Judge Advocate General (TJAG) (DAJA-ALG) will provide legal advice as necessary. The Command Judge

Advocate U.S. Army Community and Family Support Center will provide primary legal advice and assistance to CDS.

f. The Chief of Engineers (HQ, USACE) (CEEC) will—

(1) Develop CDS facility and fire standards.

(2) Provide technical guidance on all design and construction matters concerning CDS facilities including site, building, and utilities.

(3) Issue design guides, standard designs, and supplementary criteria as issued in the Architectural and Engineering

Instruction (AEI) design criteria and requirements for constructing and renovating CDCs.

(4) Review and approve projects submitted on DD Form 1391 (Fiscal Year Military Construction Project data) for technical accuracy and conformance with prescribed criteria, cost engineering requirements and DA policy and guidance.

g. The Commander, U.S. Army Command Criminal Investigation (USACIDC) will—

(1) Support requirements for background investigations for CDS personnel.

(2) Monitor the process for thoroughness, effectiveness, and prompt response.

h. The Commander, United States Army Force Integration Support Agency (USAFISA) will—

(1) Provide manpower management and TDA documentation assistance for CDS programs throughout the Army

(CFSC, MACOM, installations) including update or publication of staffing criteria for CDS programs (DA Pam 570–551).

(2) Provide guidelines on APF and NAF staffing patterns.

2–2. Major Army commands (MACOMs)

a. MACOM commanders are responsible for the management and operational supervision of MACOM, major subordinate command, and installation CDS programs. They will—

(1) Establish CDS staff positions or designees at MACOM and major subordinate command levels to interpret program policy and oversee CDS programs within the command.

(2) Ensure MACOM CDS management personnel, or designees are professionally qualified and that grade level ratings show levels of responsibility and complexity of duty assigned.

(3) Coordinate with resource management concerning allocation of MACOM CDS resources to installations.

(4) Ensure MACOM CDS management personnel and the regulatory proponents for health, facilities, fire, safety, child abuse, and legal matters coordinate regularly with HQDA counterparts. (Note: This will ensure that MACOMs remain apprised of current policies and have access to guidelines and resource materials issued for use in interpreting program policy.)

b. MACOM CDS management personnel or designees will—

(1) Establish and review MACOM CDS program policy.

(2) Oversee installation implementation of HQDA guidance and requirements; and provide technical assistance to ensure compliance with CDS standards.

(3) Conduct periodic onsite technical assistance visits. Conduct periodic unannounced inspections with regulatory proponents as part of the MACOM Child Care Evaluation Team (MCCET) for installation compliance with policy, fire, health, nutrition, safety, program, child abuse, and facility structural standards; and report findings to the installation and MACOM commanders and USACFSC (CFSC–SF–CY) as directed.

(4) Sponsor training opportunities and resources for installation CDS personnel.

(5) Collect and analyze installation CDS reports and resource requirements.

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(6) Coordinate and submit installation and MACOM CDS resource requirements through program and budget channels to HQDA.

(7) Review requirements for installation CDS services through needs assessment and demographic surveys and realign or expand services as reflective of installation needs.

(8) Coordinate installation CDS pilot projects and research studies with USACFSC (CFSC–SF–CY)

(9) Inform USACFSC (CFSC–SF–CY) of innovative MACOM and installation program efforts.

(10) Distribute to the field and ensure compliance with most current procedural guidance from HQDA.

c. MACOM Chief of Engineers will—

(1) Review and approve functional requirements, project formulation control data, initial project design data, and concept and project design control data.

(2) Ensure that economic analysis of all feasible alternatives is prepared to justify and identify construction projects before the projects are presented to HQDA in the MACOM submission. Ensure that the required economic analysis is included in the special requirements paragraph 1 (SRPI) of the DD Form 1391 with projects submitted to HQDA.

(3) Review installation DD Form 1391 to ensure that proposed sitings are consistent with the approved MACOM master plan.

2–3. Installation commanders

a. Installation commanders are responsible for the management and operational supervision of all programs and services within CDS delivery systems. They will—

(1) Ensure authorization and assignment of qualified installation personnel to provide effective CDS delivery systems to accomplish the mission.

(2) Ensure that CDS management personnel at the installation level are professionally qualified, that management personnel have child development related administrative program experience, and that personnel grade level ratings reflect level of responsibility and complexity of duty assignment.

(3) Identify installation CDS needs and resource requirements to MACOM.

( 4 ) P r o v i d e i n s t a l l a t i o n C D S r e p o r t d a t a a n d r e s o u r c e r e q u i r e m e n t s t o M A C O M a n d U S A C F S C A T T N :

CFSC–SF–CY, 2461 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22331–0521.

(5) Allocate resources and approve priorities for the allocation of resources within CDS to meet installation needs.

(6) Ensure that CDS personnel receive training as required.

(7) Ensure that all programs and activities falling under CDS are monitored by the CDS coordinator and assessed for regulatory compliance.

(8) Approve installation nominees for participation on the Installation Child Care Evaluation Team (ICCET) and support ICCET recommendations to improve CDS programs.

(9) Ensure that installation agencies support CDS oversight and technical assistance requirements including actions needed for CDS personnel background clearances.

b. The CDS coordinator will—

(1) Supervise, monitor or function as a contracting officer representative for all activities, contractors, and individu-als, providing child care on property controlled by the U.S. Army unless exempted by this regulation.

(2) Verify compliance with CDS program and facility standards on DA Form 4841–R (Child Development Services

(CDS) Program/Facility Report) annually to MACOM and USACFSC (CFSC–SF–CY).

(3) Report noncompliance with standards to the installation and MACOM commanders.

(4) Act as the point of contact (POC) for all issues and actions…