Effective immediately, full size cribs are no longer required. The rules addressing crib requirements for type B homes will be revised to reflect this change. However, as many providers are currently replacing their older cribs with new cribs that meet the new federal standards, the department wanted all providers to be notified as soon as possible. Until the rule changes are finalized, during certification inspection visits type B homes will be assessed according to the revised requirements contained in this letter.

The revised rule language will state that cribs must be used according to manufacturer's instructions and to discontinue the use of the porta crib when the child is able to climb out or reaches the height of thirty-five inches. Current rule language which prohibited infants over thirty inches tall from being placed in a porta crib shall be removed. Current language regarding infants being able to be placed on a cot at sixteen months with parental permission and language regarding infants who are over thirty-five inches tall shall stay the same.

The electronic versions of the child care manuals are located at: http://emanuals.jfs.ohio.gov. These manuals contain all child care rules, transmittal letters, procedure letters and forms. Please contact the Office of Family Assistance, Child Care Policy Help Desk at 1-877-302-2347, option 4, or your county certification worker if you have any questions regarding this new crib policy.

INSTRUCTIONS: The following chart identifies the material that needs to be inserted into the Child Care Type B Home Manual (CCBM).