Code of Colorado Regulations 1400 - Department of Early Childhood
Code of Colorado Regulations (CCR) – 1400
Department of Early Childhood
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) oversees early childhood education, child care licensing, and early intervention programs. CCR 1400 contains the rules and regulations that implement state statutes regarding early childhood services.
Overview of CCR 1400
Establishes licensing standards and operational requirements for child care centers, family child care homes, and early childhood programs.
Sets rules for health, safety, staffing, program quality, and administrative operations.
Defines processes for monitoring, enforcement, and reporting.
Covers early intervention and family support programs administered by the Department.
Key Divisions and Rules
Division 1 – Licensing Requirements
Applies to all licensed child care facilities and programs.
Licensing Standards Include:
Application and Renewal: Procedures for initial licensure and periodic renewal.
Staffing Requirements: Minimum staff-to-child ratios based on age, required staff qualifications, and training.
Background Checks: Mandatory criminal and child abuse registry checks for all staff and household members in family child care homes.
Facility Requirements: Health, safety, sanitation, and indoor/outdoor space standards.
Program Operations: Curriculum, supervision, discipline policies, and child recordkeeping.
Division 2 – Health and Safety Standards
Focused on preventing illness and injury in child care settings.
Requirements Include:
Immunizations and health screenings for children.
Safe food handling, storage, and preparation procedures.
Sanitation of toys, surfaces, and equipment.
Emergency preparedness and evacuation plans.
Medication administration and documentation.
Division 3 – Staff Qualifications and Training
Establishes minimum education and training standards for child care staff.
Staff must meet age-specific education requirements (e.g., early childhood credentialing, CPR/first aid certification).
Continuing education is required to maintain licensure.
Guidelines for supervising assistants, volunteers, and interns.
Division 4 – Early Intervention and Family Support
Covers programs for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities.
Provides guidance for Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs).
Sets timelines for assessment, service delivery, and monitoring.
Ensures family engagement and coordination with local agencies.
Division 5 – Monitoring and Enforcement
Outlines the Department’s authority to inspect, monitor, and enforce regulations.
Inspections Include:
Routine licensing inspections.
Complaint investigations.
Follow-up inspections for non-compliance.
Violations can result in:
Corrective action plans.
Fines or penalties.
License suspension or revocation.
Division 6 – Administrative Procedures
Explains procedures for hearings, appeals, and dispute resolution.
Establishes timelines for notification, corrective action, and compliance verification.
Includes recordkeeping, reporting requirements, and confidentiality protections for children and families.
Summary
CCR 1400 codifies the standards and regulations for early childhood programs in Colorado, including:
Child care licensing and operational standards.
Staff qualifications, health, and safety requirements.
Early intervention and family support programs.
Monitoring, enforcement, and administrative procedures.
The rules ensure safe, high-quality early childhood education and care across Colorado.
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