Chapter 5180:2-18 | Child Day Camps

Rule 5180:2-18-01 | Definitions for registered and approved child day camps.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

As used in this chapter:

(A) "Adult" means an individual who is at least eighteen years of age.

(B) "Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN)" means a certified registered nurse anesthetist, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse midwife or certified nurse practitioner under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code.

(C) "Approved child day camp" means a child day camp approved pursuant to section 5104.22 of the Revised Code.

(1) Approved child day camps shall meet one of the following requirements:

(a) Be accredited by the American camp association (ACA).

(b) Be accredited by any nationally recognized organization that accredits child day camps by using standards that the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) has determined are substantially similar and comparable to those of the ACA.

(2) Approved child day camps shall meet the requirements in sections 5104.21 and 5104.22 of the Revised Code, and Chapter 5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code.

(D) "Authorized representative" means an individual employed by a child day camp that is owned by a person other than an individual and who is authorized by the owner to do all of the following:

(1) Communicate on the owner's behalf.

(2) Submit on the owner's behalf child day camp registrations and applications for approval.

(3) Enter into provider agreements for publicly funded child care.

(E) "Child" means an infant, toddler, preschool child or school-age child.

(F) "Child care" per section 5104.01 of the Revised Code means all of the following:

(1) Administering to the needs of infants, toddlers, preschool-age children, and school-age children outside of school hours;

(2) By persons other than their parents, guardians, or custodians;

(3) For part of the twenty-four-hour day;

(4) In a place other than a child's own home, except that an in-home aide provides child care in the child's own home;

(5) By a provider required by Chapter 5104. of the Revised Code to be licensed or approved DCY, certified by a county department of job and family services, or under contract with the department to provide publicly funded child care as described in section 5104.32 of the Revised Code.

(G) "Child day camp" means a program in which only school-age children attend or participate, that operates for no more than twelve hours per day and no more than fifteen weeks during the summer. For purposes of this chapter, the maximum twelve hours of operation time does not include transportation time from a child's home to a child day camp and from a child day camp to a child's home.

(H) "Child day camp administrator" means the person responsible for the daily operation of the child day camp. The administrator and the owner may be the same person. The administrator is also a child day camp staff member.

(I) "Child day camp owner" includes a person, as 'person' is defined in section 1.59 of the Revised Code, or a government entity.

(J) "Child day camp staff member" means an employee of an approved child day camp whose primary responsibility is to provide care and supervision of children. Only a child day camp staff member may be part of the staff-to-child ratio.

(K) "Corrective action plan" describes the action taken by the program to correct a licensing non-compliance. This plan does not confirm whether the program is in compliance with the ruleor negate the non-compliance finding. Corrective action plans are submitted in the Ohio statewide licensing system and are to be completed in their entirety to be approved.

(L) "Dentist" means a person issued a certificate to practice in accordance with Chapter 4715. of the Revised Code and rules adopted by the state dental board or a comparable body in a state.

(M) "Employee" means an indiviudal who receives compensatioon for duties performed in an approved child day camp; or who is assigned specific working hours or duties in an approved child day camp. This includes contracted employees or self-employed individuals who are compensated by the program and who has unsupervised access to children in the program.

(N) "Field trips" means infrequent or irregularly scheduled excursions from the camp.

(O) "Hazardous weather conditions" means winds of twenty miles per hour or greater, continuous or heavy rain, hail, extreme temperatures, lightening or tornado warnings or watches within a twenty mile radius of a child day camp activity site.

(P) "Medical food" means food that is formulated to be consumed under the supervision of a physician, physician assistant (PA), or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) and which is intended for the specific dietary management of a disease or condition.

(Q) "Medication" means any substance or preparation which is used to prevent or treat a wound, injury, infection, infirmity or disease. This includes medication that is over the counter, or prescribed or recommended by a licensed dentist, licensed physician, physician assistant (PA), or advance practice registered nurse (APRN) certified to prescribe medication, and permitted by the parent for administration or application.

(R) "Natural bodies of water" mean any river, stream, creek or spring or any natural or man-made lake or pond.

(S) "Ohio professional registry (OPR)" is an online professional development tool for Ohio's child care professionals.

(T) "Ohio statewide licensing system" is the DCY system for child care licensing, certification, approval, and step up to quality functions and activities.

(U) "On-site" means a primary use space where regular child day camp programming takes place.

(V) "Operate a child day camp" means to operate, establish, manage, conduct, or maintain a child day camp.

(W) "Parent" means the father or mother of a child, an adult who has legal custody of a child, an adult who is the guardian of the child, or an adult who stands in loco parentis with respect to a child, and whose presence in the home is needed as the caretaker of the child. Parent has the same meaning as "caretaker parent" as defined in section 5104.01 of the Revised Code.

(X) "Physician" means a person issued a certificate to practice in accordance with Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code and rules adopted by the state medical board or a comparable body in another state.

(Y) "Physician assistant (PA)" means a person who has obtained a valid certificate to practice in accordance with Chapter 4730. of the Revised Code and rules adopted by the state medical board or a comparable body in another state.

(Z) "Primary use space" means any space, including buildings and/or tracts of land, that is used by the child day camp at least seventy per cent of the day for programming purposes involving the enrolled children. Primary use spaces do not include areas that are not owned, rented or operated by the camp such as field trip locations or routine trip locations.

(AA) "Primitive campsite" means any outdoor space in a natural environment without access to electricity, water supply systems, central food service, sewage treatment facilities and/or housing.

(BB) "Public children services agency (PCSA)" means an entity specified in section 5153.02 of the Revised Code that has assumed the powers and duties of the children services function prescribed by Chapter 5153. of the Revised Code for a county.

(CC) "Registered child day camp" means a camp that has completed and submitted a registration and fee to DCY for the purpose of reporting the operation of a child day camp. Registered child day camps are assigned a registration number and are included in the DCY searchable database of child care providers in the state of Ohio. Registered child day camps shall abide by rule 5180:2-18-02 of the Administrative Code, but are not considered "approved child day camps" and are not required to abide by the rules in Chapter5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code that refer to camps approved to provide publicly funded child care.

(DD) "Routine trips" means repeated excursions off the child day camp premises which regularly occur on a previously scheduled basis with parental permission.

(EE) "School-age child" means a child who is enrolled in or is eligible to be enrolled in a grade of kindergarten or above but is less than fifteen years old or, in the case of a child who is receiving special needs child care, is less than eighteen years old.

(FF) "School building" has the same meaning and meets the requirements in the section 3301.55 of the Revised Code.

(GG) "Special needs child care" refers to care providedfor a child under the age of eighteen who:

(1) Has one or more chronic (ongoing) health conditions; or

(2) Requires additional support due to severe developmental differences in one or more of the following areas:

(a) Social development.

(b) Emotional development.

(c) Cognitive development.

(d) Communication skills.

(e) Perception skills.

(f) Perception and sensory processing.

(g) Motor skills.

(h) Physical health or mobility.

(i) Behavioral development.

(3) These needs require regular and ongoing adaptations and/or daily specialized support to support their child's development. As a result, the level of care needed is significantly increased and leads to ongoing additional expenses for the child care program.

(HH) "Specialized activities" means those camp program activities that meet one or more of the following:

(1) Require a specialized skill set or knowledge.

(2) Use equipment, animals or tools that require supervision by a person skilled in their use.

(3) Involve the use of fire or the use of heat-producing equipment or substances.

(4) Require injury-protection equipment, such as, but not limited to, helmets, goggles or padding.

(5) Consist of specific sport related programs only, such as, but not limited to, baseball, lacrosse, soccer, etc.

(II) "Supervision "means the process of overseeing care of children in a child day camp and includes the duty to keep children safe from harm.

(JJ) "Visitor" means an individual who is not considered an employee but may be temporarily present in the program. A visitor does not have assigned duties, is not used in ratio, or left alone with children,

(KK) "Voluntary temporary closure" means the program requests to stop serving children, but not close the approval. A voluntary temporary closure shall not exceed twelve months.

(LL) "Volunteer" means an individual who is not considered an employee. A volunteer may have assigned duties, but is not counted in ratio, and is not left alone with children.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.01, 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/1/2009, 7/20/2014

Rule 5180:2-18-02 | Requirements for registered child day camps.

• Effective: April 27, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Which child day camps are to register with the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS)?

All child day camps are to annually register with ODJFS before beginning operations, unless the child day camp meets the exemption criteria in section 5104.21 of the Revised Code.

(B) How do child day camps register with ODJFS?

The child day camp is to complete and submit a registration and pay a registration fee online in the Ohio child licensing and quality system (OCLQS) at https://oclqs.force.com by March fifteenth annually.

(1) The fee for registration is twenty-five dollars per camp, not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars for all camps, pursuant to section 5104.21 of the Revised Code. The fee is nonrefundable and nonreturnable.

(2) The registration is effective for the period of March fifteenth of the current year through March fourteenth of the following calendar year.

(3) Registration of a child day camp after March fifteenth is effective from the date of registration through March fourteenth of the following calendar year.

(C) What happens if a child day camp fails to register with ODJFS, or knowingly provides false information to ODJFS?

If a child day camp that is to register under section 5104.21 of the Revised Code fails to register with ODJFS, or if a child day camp that files a registration form knowingly provides false or misleading information, the child day camp is to register correctly and pay a registration fee equal to three times the registration fee.

(D) What are the background check requirements for registered child day camps?

(1) All applicants, employees and child day camp staff members of the registered child day camp, including child day camp administrators and child day camp owners, are to request a bureau of criminal investigation (BCI) and a federal bureau of investigation (FBI) criminal records check pursuant to section 5104.013 of the Revised Code. The request is to be made at the time of initial application for employment, and every five years thereafter.

(2) A registered child day camp may employ an applicant, or continue to employ a child day camp staff member, an employee, and/or a child day camp administrator, until the criminal records check is completed and the camp receives the result of the check. The camp is not to grant the individual sole responsibility for the care, custody or control of a child until the results of the criminal records check have been reviewed and it is determined that the individual is eligible for employment. If the results indicate that the individual is ineligible for employment, the camp is to immediately release the individual from employment.

(3) The registered child day camp is to determine an individual ineligible for employment if the person has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to any of the violations described in division (A)(5) of section 109.572 of the Revised Code, unless the individual meets the rehabilitation criteria found in appendix A to this rule. If the individual, upon request, fails to provide the information necessary to complete the form or fails to provide impressions of the individual's fingerprints, the registered child day camp is to consider the failure a reason to determine an individual ineligible for employment. When the individual is determined ineligible, the registered child day camp is not to employ the individual or contract with another entity for the services of the individual.

(4) Each registered child day camp is to pay the fee prescribed by BCI and FBI to BCI and FBI for each criminal records check conducted. A camp may charge an individual a fee for the costs it incurs in obtaining a criminal records check. The fee charged is not to exceed the fees the camp pays under this rule. If a fee is charged, the camp is to notify the applicant at the time of the applicant's initial application for employment of the amount of the fee and that, unless the fee is paid, the camp will not consider the applicant for employment.

(5) Criminal records check results are confidential and not public records and are not to be made available to any person other than the person who is the subject of the criminal records check, or the person's representative, the director of job and family services, the child day camp administrator, and any court, hearing officer, or other necessary individual involved in a case dealing with a denial or revocation of registration related to the criminal records check.

(E) When may registered child day camps be inspected by ODJFS?

(1) The director of job and family services may periodically conduct a random sampling of registered child day camps pursuant to section 5104.21 of the Revised Code to determine compliance with section 5104.013 of the Revised Code.

(2) All registered child day camps are to comply with any inspection conducted by ODJFS.

(F) What are registered child day camps to provide to the parents of children who participate in the camp?

A child day camp administrator or a designated staff member is to provide the parents of each child who attends or participates in the registered child day camp with the telephone numbers of the county department of health or local health district and the public children services agency of the county in which the child day camp is located, and a statement that the parents may use these telephone numbers to make a complaint regarding the child day camp.

Last updated January 30, 2026 at 4:14 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21
Amplifies: 5104.013
Five Year Review Date: 4/27/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2019

Rule 5180:2-18-03 | Approved child day camp registration and application.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Which child day camps are to register with the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY)?

All child day camps are to annually register with DCY before beginning operations, unless the child day camp meets the exemption criteria in section 5104.21 of the Revised Code.

(B) How do child day camps register with DCY?

The child day camp is to complete and submit a registration and pay a registration fee online in the Ohio statewide licensing system.

(1) The fee for registration is twenty-five dollars per camp, not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars for all camps, pursuant to section 5104.21 of the Revised Code. The fee is nonrefundable and nonreturnable.

(2) The registration is effective for the period of March fifteenth of the current year through March fourteenth of the following calendar year.

(3) Registration of a child day camp after March fifteenth is effective from the date of registration through March fourteenth of the following calendar year.

(4) By March fifteenth of each year, child day camps are to reactivate their registration in the statewide licensing system.

(C) What happens if a child day camp fails to register with DCY, or knowingly provides false information to DCY?

If a child day camp that is to register under section 5104.21 of the Revised Code fails to register with DCY, or if a child day camp that files a registration form knowingly provides false or misleading information, the child day camp is to register correctly and pay a registration fee equal to three times the registration fee.

(D) What is the application process when a registered child day camp wants to be approved to provide publicly funded child care (PFCC)?

The registered child day camp owner or the owner's authorized representative is to:

(1) Obtain accreditation by the American camp association (ACA) or any nationally recognized organization that accredits child day camps by using standards that DCY has determined are substantially similar and comparable to those of the ACA.

(2) Complete a professional registry profile for the child day camp owner through the Ohio professional registry (OPR).

(3) Create an employment record in the OPR on or before the first day of employment, including date of hire, if an individual owner or individual authorized representative is an employee of the child day camp.

(4) Update individual profile in the OPR within ten calendar days of a change to their contact information and/or position.

(5) Complete the pre-camp and staff orientation training for approved child day camp owners, administrators and child day camp staff members in the OPR. The orientation training is to have been taken within two years prior to the application date.

(6) Complete and submit the application for an approved child day camp online in the Ohio statewide licensing system.

(a) The application is to be completed by April fifteenth of the year the camp wishes to be approved to provide PFCC. Completed applications received by DCY after April fifteenth may not be approved by the beginning of that summer.

(b) Any application submitted without complete and accurate information will need to be amended with complete and accurate information before being approved.

(7) Comply with an initial pre-approval inspection by DCY.

(E) What additional items shall be submitted during the application process?

(1) A background check is to be requested at the time of application in accordance with rule 5180:2-18-07 of the Administrative Code.

(2) The following items will be completed and submitted prior to approval:

(a) Documentation of current accreditation by the ACA or any nationally recognized organization that accredits child day camps by using standards that DCY has determined are substantially similar and comparable to those of the ACA.

(b) Documentation of a building inspection, if applicable. Approval will not be given without the Certificate of occupancy issued in accordance with Chapters 3781. and 3791. of the Revised Code. Child day camps operating in a school building serving school age children are exempt from this requirement.

(c) Name of administrators and documentation that they meet the qualifications as outlined in rule 5180:2-18- 05 of the Administrative Code.

(d) When the owner is an individual, the name of the individual owner. When the owner is a corporation, business trust, estate trust, partnership or association, the name of each individual with an ownership interest.

(e) Documentation of business entity registered with a local, state or federal agency, if applicable.

(f) A detailed and labeled site plan that includes: An indoor plan of the space proposed to be used to care for children and an outdoor play space diagram that includes the space used by children in care.

(g) Fire inspection, if applicable, issued in accordance with Chapters 3781. and 3791. of the Revised Code.

(h) Valid food service operation license, exemption status, and/or food processing establishment registration with the Ohio department of agriculture (ODA).

(F) How long is a child day camp approved?

A child day camp shall be approved until March fourteenth of the following year, unless one of the following occurs:

(1) The approval is terminated for noncompliance with section 5104.21 or 5104.22 of the Revised Code or Chapter 5180:2-16, 5180:2-18 or 5180:6-1 of the Administrative Code.

(2) The approved child day camp fails to maintain accreditation by the ACA or similar accrediting body approved by DCY.

(3) The camp changes ownership or the primary use space as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code is moved to a new address.

(4) The approved child day camp notifies DCY in writing of its voluntary withdrawal from the approval process.

(G) What are the requirements once an approval has been issued?

At the time the child day camp receives its approval, the child day camp shall complete and submit a provider agreement and all information required pursuant to rule 5180:2-16-09 of the Administrative Code in the Ohio statewide licensing system. This information shall be submitted before the first day PFCC services are provided.

(H) What are the requirements to renew an approval for a child day camp?

(1) Prior to March fourteenth of the following year, the child day camp shall complete and submit an application and a reactivation in the Ohio statewide licensing system.

(2) Approvals shall be renewed without a pre-approval inspection unless:

(a) The child day camp moves to a new primary use space as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code.

(b) The child day camp changes ownership.

(c) The child day camp does not complete and submit an application and registration in the Ohio statewide licensing system by March fifteenth of the following year.

(3) Approvals that have been renewed shall have at least one unannounced inspection by DCY per camp season.

(I) What if the child day camp loses its ACA accreditation or its accreditation by any nationally recognized organization that has been approved by DCY?

(1) The approved child day camp shall notify DCY within twenty-four hours of losing its accreditation.

(2) Approval shall be removed pursuant to paragraph (K) of this rule.

(J) How shall an administrator, owner or owner's authorized representative request a voluntary temporary closure/inactive status for the approval of a child day camp?

(1) The administrator, owner or owner's authorized representative is to request the temporary closure status in the Ohio statewide licensing system. The program approval will then be considered "inactive" in the system.

(2) The temporary closure/inactive status shall not exceed twelve months.

(3) The camp shall not serve any children during the temporary closure/inactive status.

(4) The camp may be required to comply with an inspection prior to the end of the temporary closure/inactive status and prior to serving children again.

(5) If at the end of the twelve months, the camp has not requested in the Ohio statewide licensing system to reactive the approval or is not able to be re-opened, DCY may close the approval without hearing rights afforded by Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(K) What happens if approval is denied or removed by DCY?

(1) If DCY denies or removes an approval for non-compliance of section 5104.21 of the Revised Code, or Chapter 5180:2-16, 5180:2-18, or 5180:6-1 of the Administrative Code, the child day camp may not provide PFCC services.

(2) If an approval is removed, another approval shall not be issued to the owner of the child day camp until the child day camp complies with those sections and rules, or for a period of two years from the date the approval was removed, whichever period is longer.

(L) What information is the child day camp to keep current in the Ohio statewide licensing system?

(1) Mailing address.

(2) Telephone number.

(3) Email address.

(4) Days and hours of operation.

(5) Services offered.

(6) Name of administrator.

(7) Name of program.

(8) Private pay rates.

(M) What if the individual listed as an owner in the Ohio statewide licensing system changes?

The approved child day camp is to update the information in the Ohio statewide licensing system within thirty days of the change.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/16/2018, 4/27/2023

Rule 5180:2-18-04 | Compliance inspection and complaint investigation of an approved child day camp.

• Effective: April 27, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) How many inspections are required for approved child day camps?

(1) At least one inspection prior to the initial issuance of a child day camp approval.

(2) The camp shall comply with at least one inspection each summer the camp renews after the initial issuance of approval.

(3) Any complaint investigations involving the child day camp.

(B) Will inspections be announced or unannounced?

All inspections may be unannounced.

(C) What is required of an approved child day camp for an inspection and/or complaint investigation?

The approved child day camp shall allow the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) to:

(1) Complete an inspection of all areas where children have access, and all areas used to verify compliance with Chapter 5101:2-18 of the Administrative Code and Chapter 5104. of the Revised Code.

(2) Review required records and documentation, including any documentation required for accreditation by the American camp association (ACA) or any nationally recognized organization that accredits child day camps by using standards that ODJFS has determined to be substantially similar to those of the ACA.

(3) Document findings in writing or in photographs or by any other means.

(4) Interview or take statements from any of the following:

(a) Building inspectors, fire department inspectors, sanitarians, public health or other state or local officials.

(b) Neighbors.

(c) Parents and relatives of children enrolled at the approved child day camp.

(d) Staff of the public children services agency (PCSA).

(e) Anyone mentioned by the complainant.

(f) Law enforcement personnel.

(g) Current and past child day camp employees.

(h) Other witnesses.

(D) What are additional requirements for an approved child day camp as a result of an inspection and/or complaint investigation?

The approved child day camp shall:

(1) Complete and submit a corrective action plan in the Ohio child care licensing and quality system (OCLQS) addressing the non-compliances detailed in the inspection report within the time frame requested in the inspection report.

(2) Not misrepresent, falsify or withhold information from ODJFS.

(E) Will an approved child day camp have additional inspections based on non-compliances found?

All non-compliances may lead to additional inspections by ODJFS or compliance materials submitted.

(F) What if the approved child day camp does not agree with ODJFS findings?

The approved child day camp shall:

(1) Complete and submit a JFS 01283 "Request for Review for an Approved Child Day Camp" with any applicable documentation.

(2) Submit the request and documentation within seven business days from the receipt of the inspection report.

(G) Are child day camp inspection records available to the public?

(1) Inspections may be viewed at http://childcaresearch.ohio.gov/.

(2) An individual may submit a written request to ODJFS for a copy of the child day camp's record.

Last updated January 30, 2026 at 4:14 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 4/27/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 4/16/2018

Rule 5180:2-18-05 | Child day camp administrator requirements for an approved child day camp.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the requirements for child day camp administrators in an approved child day camp?

The program is responsible for naming administrators to ensure that program administrative responsibilities are carried out. This could be accomplished by assigning administrator responsibilities to more than one person. The program is responsible to ensure that:

The child day camp administrator completes the following duties:

(1) Manages the daily operation of the approved child day camp and maintains compliance with Chapter 5104. of the Revised Code and Chapter5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Is on-site a minimum of one-half of the hours that the approved child day camp is in operation during the week, or forty hours per week, whichever is less. If there is more than one child day camp administrator, at least one child day camp administrator is to meet this requirement.

(3) Is on-site at least twenty hours per week during the hours of seven a.m. to six p.m., Monday through Friday, for approved child day camps that are in operation on the weekends and/or evenings/overnights, as well as during the week. If there is more than one child day camp administrator, at least one must meet this requirement.

(4) Is responsible for the creation, maintenance and implementation of the policies and procedures detailed in appendix A to this rule, ensuring that nothing in these policies conflicts with Chapter 5104. of the Revised Code or Chapter5180:6-1 or 5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code.

(5) Provides the parents and all employees with the policies and procedures listed in appendix A to this rule.

(6) Provides the information in appendix B to this rule to the parent(s) of children enrolled at the approved child day camp.

(7) Ensures that observations are completed for all junior counselors by a child day camp staff member that is in a supervisory role, pursuant to rule 5180:2-18-06 of the Administrative Code.

(8) Maintains a file available on-site for each enrolled child by the child's first day of attendance which shall include:

(a) The child's name and birthdate.

(b) Emergency contact names and telephone numbers.

(c) The name, address and telephone number of the child's primary care physician.

(d) A medical care plan if necessary pursuant to rule 5180:2-18-11 of the Administrative Code.

(9) Ensures that no administrator, employee, or child day camp staff member discriminates in the enrollment of children upon the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, or national origin.

(B) What are the Ohio professional registry (OPR) and documentation responsibilities for a child day camp administrator in an approved child day camp?

The child day camp administrator is to:

(1) Create or update their individual profile in the OPR.

(2) Create or update the approved child day camp's organization dashboard in the OPR for each approved child day camp in which they are employed as an administrator.

(3) Ensure that all employees and child day camp staff members complete the following in the OPR:

(a) Create or update their individual profile in the OPR.

(b) Create an employment record in the OPR on or before their first day of employment, including date of hire.

(c) Update individual profiles or employment records in the OPR within ten business days of the change to their contact information and/or position.

(4) Update the approved child day camp's organization dashboard in the OPR within five calendar days of a change for employees and child day camp staff members of the program, including:

(a) Scheduled days and hours.

(b) Group assignments, if applicable.

(c) The end date of employment.

(5) Maintain records on-site for each current employee and child day camp staff member as outlined in Chapter 5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code, if not yet verified in the OPR.

(a) Make employment records available upon request by the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) for at least three years after each person's departure, if not verified in the OPR.

(b) Keep employment records confidential except when made available to DCY for the purpose of administering Chapter 5104. of the Revised Code and Chapter 5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code.

(C) What if a child day camp administrator is not on the premises?

(1) A child day camp staff member who is at least eighteen years of age shall be designated as the person in charge and be on the premises.

(2) The designated person in charge shall handle all emergencies and have access to all records required by Chapters 5180:6-1 and5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code.

View Appendix

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2019, 4/27/2023

Rule 5180:2-18-06 | Lead counselor, junior counselor, counselor-in-training and employee requirements in an approved child day camp.

• Effective: April 27, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the requirements for a lead counselor in an approved child day camp?

A lead counselor is considered a child day camp staff member as defined in rule 5101:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code. A lead counselor shall:

(1) Be at least eighteen years of age.

(2) Comply with the background check requirements pursuant to rule 5101:2-18-07 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Complete a professional registry profile through the Ohio professional registry (OPR) at https://occrra.org by the first day of employment.

(B) What are the requirements for a junior counselor in an approved child day camp?

A junior counselor is considered a child day camp staff member as defined in rule 5101:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code. A junior counselor shall:

(1) Be at least sixteen years of age.

(2) Be at least two years older than the group of children with whom they are working.

(3) Demonstrate the ability to handle groups of children independently through observations by staff in supervisory roles.

(4) Comply with the background check requirements pursuant to rule 5101:2-18-07 of the Administrative Code.

(5) Complete a professional registry profile through the OPR by the first day of employment.

(C) What are the requirements for a counselor-in-training in an approved child day camp?

A counselor-in-training shall be considered a child in care and shall:

(1) Be at least twelve years of age and no more than fifteen years of age.

(2) Be part of a structured volunteer program at the camp that offers leadership and work experience opportunities for older school-agers.

(3) Be included in staff/child ratios as a child, not a child day camp staff member.

(4) Not be left alone with children.

(5) Not be considered an employee or child care staff member, and not subject to the background check requirements in rule 5101:2-18-07 of the Administrative Code.

(D) What are the requirements for an employee in an approved child day camp?

An employee at an approved child day camp is not considered a child day camp staff member and cannot be left alone with children. An employee shall:

(1) Be at least fifteen years of age.

(2) Comply with the background check requirements pursuant to rule 5101:2-18-07 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Complete a professional registry profile through OPR by the first day of employment.

(E) What are the orientation requirements for child day camp staff members, including administrators, in an approved child day camp?

(1) All child day camp staff members including administrators shall complete the online pre-camp and staff orientation training for approved child day camp owners, administrators and child day camp staff members prescribed by ODJFS within thirty days of starting employment, unless the staff member has documentation of completion of the training after the effective date of this rule.

(2) Completion of training shall be documented with verification from the OPR.

(3) The online orientation may be used for up to five hours of professional development for child day camp staff members pursuant to rule 5101:2-18-08 of the Administrative Code.

(4) Child day camp staff members may be used in ratio, but may not have sole care of the children until the pre-camp orientation is completed.

Last updated January 30, 2026 at 4:14 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 4/27/2028

Rule 5180:2-18-07 | Background check requirements for an approved child day camp.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What records are included in a background check?

(1) Bureau of criminal investigation (BCI) records pursuant to section 5104.013 of the Revised Code.

(2) Federal bureau of investigation (FBI) records pursuant to section 5104.013 of the Revised Code.

(3) National sex offender registry.

(4) State sex offender registry.

(5) Statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) records.

(B) Who shall have a background check?

(1) An individual owner of an approved child day camp or applicant; or if the owner is a firm, organization or agency, an authorized representative of the owner.

(2) An administrator or child day camp staff member as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code.

(3) An employee of an approved child day camp as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code. A volunteer or visitor is not an employee.

(4) A child day camp staff member as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code.

(C) Who is not required to have a background check?

Background checks are not required for volunteers and visitors. These are individuals who:

(1) Are not counted in staff-child ratio.

(2) Are not to be left alone with children at any time.

(D) When is a background check required?

(1) At initial application for approval of a child day camp.

(2) Prior to the first day of employment for employees and child day camp staff members.

(3) Every five years from the date of the most recent BCI records check.

(E) How is a background check obtained?

The individual shall:

(1) Create a profile in the Ohio professional registry (OPR).

(2) Submit fingerprints electronically according to the process established by BCI, and have the BCI and FBI results sent directly to the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY).

(3) Complete and submit the request for a background check for child care in the OPR.

(F) What if an individual previously resided in a state other than Ohio?

(1) DCY will contact any states in which the individual resided in the previous five years to request the information required in paragraph (A) of this rule.

(2) Any information received from other states will be reviewed and considered by DCY as part of the background check review pursuant to paragraph (H) of this rule.

(G) What happens if an individual does not complete the full background check determination process?

(1) If the individual completes only the requirements in paragraph (E)(2) of this rule or only the requirements in paragraph (E)(3) of this rule and does not submit the other component within forty-five days, the background check process will end and a determination of eligibility will not be made.

(2) DCY will notify the individual and the program that the background check determination process has ended.

(3) The individual will need to complete the requirements of paragraphs (E)(2) and (E)(3) of this rule to restart the background check determination process in the future.

(H) What makes an individual ineligible to own or be employed by an approved day camp?

(1) A conviction or guilty plea to an offense listed in division (A)(5) of section 109.572 of the Revised Code, unless the individual meets the rehabilitation criteria in appendix A to this rule.

(a) Section 109.572 of the Revised Code requires that this rule applies to records of convictions that have been sealed pursuant to section 2953.32 of the Revised Code.

(b) A conviction or a plea of guilty to an offense listed in division (A)(5) of section 109.572 of the Revised Code is not prohibitive if the individual has been granted an unconditional pardon for the offense pursuant to Chapter 2967. of the Revised Code or the conviction or guilty plea has been set aside pursuant to law. For purposes of this rule, "unconditional pardon" includes a conditional pardon with respect to which all conditions have been performed or have transpired.

(2) Being registered or required to be registered on the national or state sex offender registry or repository.

(3) The individual is identified in SACWIS as the perpetrator for a substantiated finding of child abuse or neglect in the previous ten years from the date the request for background check was submitted or the individual has had a child removed from their home in the previous ten years pursuant to section 2151.353 of the Revised Code due to a court determination of abuse or neglect caused by that specific individual.

(I) What happens after the individual requests the background check in the OPR and submits fingerprints through a webcheck location?

(1) The approved child day camp and individual will receive notification of preliminary approval generated from the OPR.

(2) The approved child day camp will receive theDCY 01176 "Program Notification of Background Check Review for Child Care" from DCY and shall keep it on file if not available in the OPR.

(a) For those individuals not eligible for employment, the approved child day camp shall not hire the individual or shall terminate them from employment immediately upon receipt of theDCY 01176.

(b) Until preliminary approval is received fromDCY, an administrator, employee or child day camp staff member hired on or after the effective date of this rule shall not engage in any assigned duties or be near children.

(c) A child day camp staff member with preliminary approval but not a DCY 01176 on file at the child day camp or in the OPR shall not be left alone with children and shall be supervised at all times by another child day camp staff member with a DCY 01176 on file or in the OPR.

(d) Only child day camp staff members with aDCY 01176 on file at the child day camp or in the OPR may be left alone with children.

(3) The individual will receive the DCY 01177 "Individual Notification of Background Check Review for Child Care" from DCY.

(a) If the individual believes the information received is not accurate, the individual may directly contact the agency that contributed the questioned information.

(b) If the individual disagrees with the employment eligibility decision made by DCY, a DCY 01178 "Request for Review of Background Check Decision for Child Care" shall be completed to request a review of the decision. TheDCY 01178 shall be submitted within fourteen business days from the date on the DCY 01177.

(J) What happens after an individual submits aDCY 01178 to DCY?

If an individual requests a review of a background check decision pursuant to paragraph (I)(3)(b) of this rule:

(1) The program shall not allow the individual to be on-site at the program during the review by DCY.

(2) If the individual is determined to be eligible for employment, the program may allow the individual to be employed and shall keep the updated DCY 01176 on file pursuant to paragraph (I)(2) of this rule.

(K) What are the background check requirements if an individual becomes employed at another approved child day camp or licensed child care program?

(1) Only the request for a background check for child care in the OPR is required if the individual meets all of the following:

(a) The individual has a current background check determination byDCY completed in the previous five years pursuant to this rule.

(b) The individual has been employed by an approved child day camp, licensed child care center, licensed type A home, licensed type B home, a licensed preschool or school-age program approved to provide publicly funded child care or certified as an in-home aide or was a resident of a licensed type A home or licensed type B home in the previous one hundred eighty consecutive days.

(2) Upon receipt of the request,DCY will provide the DCY 01176 based on the existing background check determination on file to the new employer.

View Appendix

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/16/2018, 1/27/2024

Rule 5180:2-18-08 | Training and professional development requirements for an approved child day camp.

• Effective: April 27, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the health training requirements for an approved child day camp?

(1) All child day camp staff members are to be currently trained in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Both the first aid and the CPR trainings are to be appropriate for the age and developmental levels of the children in care.

(a) First aid and CPR trainings are to be completed within the first thirty days of hire.

(b) Until all required individuals are current in the trainings, at a minimum, the child day camp is to have at least one trained child day camp staff member on-site (in each building or on the grounds) during all hours of operation who meets this requirement.

(2) An approved child day camp shall have at least one child day camp staff member on-site (in each building or on grounds) during all hours of operation who is currently trained in management of communicable disease (more than one person may be used to meet this requirement).

(3) All child day camp staff members are to be currently trained in child abuse and neglect recognition and prevention. The child abuse and neglect recognition and prevention training shall be completed within thirty days of hire.

(a) If the child day camp provides training in child abuse and neglect recognition and prevention and meets the American camp association (ACA) requirements, it can be taken in place of the Ohio department of job and family (ODJFS) training.

(b) Until all required individuals are current in this training, at a minimum, the child day camp is to have at least one trained child day camp staff member on-site (in each building or on the grounds) during all hours of operation who meets this requirement.

(4) Trainings are to meet course and trainer requirements in appendix A to this rule.

(5) If a child day camp staff member meets the trainer requirements in appendix A to this rule for a health training, that person is considered to meet the health training requirement for that health training pursuant to paragraphs (A)(1) and (A)(2) of this rule.

(6) Audiovisual or electronic media training are not to be used to meet the CPR training requirement pursuant to paragraph (A)(1) of this rule unless there is also an in-person training component.

(B) What are the ongoing professional development training requirements for the administrator and child day camp staff members ?

Complete a minimum of five clock hours of professional development training each fiscal year in any of the categories approved by the ACA or similar camp accrediting body approved by ODJFS. The fiscal year is defined as July first through June thirtieth.

(C) What verification is needed on file at the approved child day camp to document the completed training?

(1) The health trainings shall be documented by one of the following:

(a) Verification from the Ohio professional registry (OPR).

(b) Training cards or certificates issued by the training organization.

(c) The JFS 01276 "Health Training Documentation for Child Care."

(2) The on-going professional development shall be documented by one of the following:

(a) Verification from OPR.

(b) Transcript of completion of college courses from an accredited university, college or technical college.

(i) One quarter credit hour equals ten clock hours of training.

(ii) One semester credit hour equals fifteen clock hours of training.

(c) Certificates indicating continuing education units (CEU). One CEU equals ten clock hours of training.

(d) Certificates issued by ACA or a similar camp accrediting body approved by ODJFS.

(e) The JFS 01307 "Professional Development Documentation for Child Care."

(f) Certificates issued by Ohio child welfare training centers.

(3) An approved child day camp administrator or owner shall, within five business days, provide current staff with copies of their training documentation upon request or upon separation from employment for any records not verified in the OPR.

View Appendix

Last updated January 30, 2026 at 4:14 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 4/27/2028

Rule 5180:2-18-09 | Supervision of children and ratios for an approved child day camp.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the requirements for staff/child ratios for an approved child day camp?

(1) The approved child day camp shall ensure that the following day camp staff members/child ratios are maintained at all times:

(a) For children five to eleven years of age, a one to eighteen staff to child ratio is required.

(b) For children eleven to eighteen years of age, a one to twenty staff to child ratio is required.

(2) Approved child day camp staff members shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio when engaged in duties or activities that interfere with supervision of children.

(3) Children shall be organized and assigned to a group.

(a) A child with special needs shall be included in the group that best meets the child's developmental needs.

(b) Specific child day camp staff members shall be assigned and responsible for the care and supervision of the children in their group on a daily basis.

(B) What are the requirements for approved child day camps to keep an attendance record?

(1) The program shall have written documentation or an electronic record of the following:

(a) The name and birth date of the child.

(b) The assigned group for the child.

(c) Each child shall be checked in upon arrival at camp and checked out when leaving for the day.

(2) Attendance documentation for each day shall be readily accessible to child day camp staff at all times.

(3) Attendance records shall be kept on file or accessible electronically at the approved child day camp for a period of one year.

(4) Each group shall have a method for tracking the children in the group. This tracking method shall ensure that child day camp staff members know the whereabouts of the children they are responsible for at all times.

(C) What are the requirements for supervision by approved child day camp staff members?

The program is to ensure that child day camp staff members provide supervision of the children in care. Each child day camp staff member shall:

(1) Leave no child unsupervised. Supervision means:

(a) Being aware of the physical, developmental, and behavioral needs, as well as parental preferences, of the child(ren) they are caring for.

(b) Maintaining situational awareness of the children they are caring for at all times. Maintaining situational awareness may include the use of analog or digital technology (including mirrors) to supplement direct observation of the children in care but not be the sole means of observation. It also includes, but is not limited to, being:

(i) Aware of the activity a child is engaged in and being near enough to protect children from harm, meet their basic needs and respond to emergent circumstances.

(ii) Near enough to observe, respond, and anticipate reasonably foreseeable hazards and threats.

(iii) Able to summon another adult for assistance in an emergency.

(2) Not be under the influence of any substance that impairs the child day camp staff member's ability to supervise children and/or perform duties. Illegal drugs and substances shall not be on the premises. Alcohol shall only be kept in areas not approved or used for children.

(3) Always have immediate accessto a working phone on the premises that is capable of receiving incoming calls and making outgoing calls. A backup method of communication, including but not limited to email, text messaging services or an additional phone, is to be accessible when the primary phone is in use.

(4) Only release a child to the parent or to a person who has previously been approved by the parent.

(5) Limit children's exposure to inappropriate language, media or behavior. This includes inappropriate actions by the following, but not limited to non-staff adults, parents, and other children.

(D) What child guidance techniques shall be used in the approved child day camp?

(1) All child day camp staff members, including administrators and owners, shall follow appendix A to this rule regarding guidance techniques to be used with children.

(2) The approved child day camp shall communicate and consult with the parent prior to implementing a specific behavior management plan. This plan shall be in writing and signed by the parent and shall be consistent with the requirements of this rule.

(E) What are the child abuse and/or neglect reporting requirements?

If the owner, administrator, employee or child day camp staff member suspects that a child has been abused or neglected, he or she shall immediately notify the public children services agency (PCSA) or law enforcement in accordance with section 2151.421 of the Revised Code.

View Appendix

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/27/2023

Rule 5180:2-18-10 | Emergency, disaster and health-related plans for an approved child day camp.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are theemergency posting, weather emergency drill and safety drill, and emergency preparedness and response requirements for an approved child day camp?

(1) Post emergency phone numbers, readily in view in all program activity areas. Phone numbers are to include the seven digit backup number as well as the area code if area code must be dialed to complete the call and include the following emergency numbers:

(a) Emergency squad.

(b) Hospital.

(c) Police department.

(d) Fire department.

(e) Poison control.

(f) Public children's services agency (PCSA).

(g) Local health department.

(h) Local emergency management agency (EMA).

(2) Have a written emergency preparedness and response plan (EPRP) with procedures for:

(a) Medical, dental, and transport-related emergencies, including emergency phone numbers, in addition to 9-1-1.

(b) Weather emergencies and natural disasters which include severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, flash flooding or earthquakes.

(c) Emergency outdoor or indoor lockdowndue to threats of violence which includes active shooter, bioterrorism or terrorism.

(d) Emergency evacuation and relocation procedures due to hazardous materials and spills, gas leaks or bomb threats, or due to threats of violence which include active shooter, bioterrorism, or terrorism.

(e) Outbreaks, epidemics or other infectious disease emergencies.

(f) Loss of power, water or heat.

(g) Other threatening situations that may pose a health or safety hazard to the children at the day camp.

(h) Conduct monthly fire and weather emergency drills.

(i) Conduct an emergency/lockdown drill at least once each year when the camp is open and serving children.

(3) The EPRP is to include details for:

(a) Shelter in place or evacuation, how the approved child day camp will care for and account for the children until they can be reunited with the parent.

(b) Assisting children with special needs and/or chronic health conditions.

(c) A designated safe site where staff and children can safely relocate and remain when evacuated.

(d) Reunification with parents.

(i) Emergency contact information for the parents and the approved child day camp.

(ii) Procedures for notifying and communicating with parents regarding the location of the children if evacuated.

(iii) Procedures for communicating with parents during loss of communication, no phone or internet service available.

(e) The location of supplies and procedures for gathering necessary supplies for children if required to shelter in place.

(f) What to do if a disaster occurs during the transport of children or when on a field trip or routine trip.

(g) Making the plan available to all child day camp staff members and employees.

(h) Training of staff or reassignment of staff duties as appropriate.

(i) Updating the plan on a yearly basis.

(j) Contact with local emergency management officials.

(k) Continuity of operations, including how the approved child day camp would provide essential services and continue to function in an extended emergency.

(B) What is a serious incident?

(1) Death of a child at the approved child day camp.

(2) An incident, injury or illness that requires professional medical consultation or treatment for a child.

(3) An unusual or unexpected incident which jeopardizes the safety of a child, child day camp staff member, or employee of an approved child day camp.

(C) What does the approved child day camp do if there is a serious incident?

The approved day camp is to:

(1) Log in to Ohio statewide licensing systemby the next business day to report the incident as described in paragraph (B) of this rule.

(2) This notification does not replace reporting to the public children services agency (PCSA) if there are any concerns of child abuse and/or neglect as required by rule 5180:2-18-09 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Print the completed serious incident report in the Ohio statewide licensing system and give to the parent or the person picking up the child to meet this notification requirement.

(4) If a child is transported by anyone other than a parent for emergency treatment the child's health and medical records required by rule5180:2-18-11 of the Administrative Code are to accompany the child. The child day camp administrator or a child day camp staff member is to stay with the child until the parent assumes responsibility for the child's care.

(D) What are the communicable disease requirements for an approved child day camp?

(1) Any child enrolled and attending the child day camp with signs or symptoms of illness listed in appendix A to this rule is to be immediately isolated and discharged to their parent or guardian or person designated by the parent or guardian.

(2) The DCY 08087 "Communicable Disease Chart" is to be displayed in the size available in the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) forms central in order for individuals to easily read, identify and respond to communicable diseases.

(a) The child day camp is to follow the requirements listed on the DCY 08087.

(b) If the communicable disease is required to be reported to the local health department, the child day camp is to report the communicable diseasein the Ohio statewide licensing system in accordance with paragraph (B) to this rule by the end of the next business day.

(3) No later than the end of the next business day, the child day camp is to notify parents when their child has been exposed to a communicable disease listed on the DCY 08087.

(4) The child day camp is to release employees and staff members who have a communicable disease or who are unable to perform their duties due to illness.

(E) What are the specific procedures the approved day camp needs to follow for standard precautions?

(1) Blood spills shall be treated cautiously and decontaminated promptly. Disposable non-latex gloves shall be worn during contact with blood or bodily fluids which contain blood, such as vomit or feces in which blood can be seen.

(2) Surfaces contaminated with blood or bodily fluids containing blood shall first be cleaned with hot, soapy water and then sanitized with an appropriate bleach solution which is prepared on a daily basis according to product guidelines, or other acceptable disinfectant solution which is environmental protection agency (EPA) rated as hospital disinfectant with a label claim for mycobactericidal activity.

(3) Disposal of materials that contain blood requires a sealable, leakproof plastic bag or double bagging in plastic bags that are securely tied.

(4) Non-disposable items, such as clothing that contains blood, shall be placed in a sealable, leakproof plastic bag or double bagged in plastic bags that are securely tied and sent home with the child.

(5) Sharp items used for procedures on children with special care needs, such as lancets for finger sticks or syringes, require a disposable container called a "sharps container." This is a container made out of durable, rigid material which safely stores the lancets or needles until they are disposed of properly. Sharps containers are to be stored out of the reach of children.

View Appendix

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/16/2018, 10/29/2021

Rule 5180:2-18-11 | Administering medication and caring for children with special health needs.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What is required for a child day camp to administer medication to a child?

(1) Written permission from a parent is required for the child day camp to administer the following to a child:

(a) All prescription medication.

(b) All non-prescription medication.

(c) All sample medication.

(d) All medical foods.

(2) Written parental permission is not required for school-age children to carry and use their own topical products including bug sprays, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and sunscreen or emergency medication.

(3) A record of medication(s) and medical food(s) administered is to be kept for each child containing:

(a) Name of child.

(b) Name of medication and dosage.

(c) Date and time administered.

(d) Signature of the staff member that administered the medication.

(e) A record of medication administered is not required for non-prescription topical products and lotions.

(B) Who can provide instructions for administering medications or medical foods?

Instructions for administration are needed from the following individuals, depending on the type of medication or medical food:

(1) Instructions from a licensed dentist, licensed physician, physician assistant (PA), advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), or certified nurse practitioner (CNP) are required for administering:

(a) Medical foods.

(b) Prescription medications, including samples.

(c) Non-prescription medicines containing aspirin.

(d) Topical preventative products and lotions, when the instructions for use exceed or do not match the manufacturer's instructions, or the non-prescription medication is not stored in original container.

(e) Instructions are not required if the prescription medication is stored in the original container with prescription label that includes the child's full name, exact dosage and directions for use.

(2) Instructions from the child's parent are needed when:

(a) Following manufacturer's instructions to administer topical preventative products and lotions.

(b) The non-prescription medication is stored in the original container and used following manufacturer's instructions.

(3) Acceptable documentation formats for all instructions the child day camp utilizes to meet this rule include information provided on, but not limited to, the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) forms, electronic patient chart systems, physician or hospital discharge instructions.

(C) What are the additional requirements for administering medication or medical foods?

When administering medications or medical foods, the child day camp is to:

(1) Not administer any medication, medical food, or topical product until after the child has received the first dose or application at least once prior to the provider administering a dose or applying the product, to avoid unexpected reactions. Emergency medications for the child are exempt from this requirement.

(2) Not administer any medication, medical food or topical product for any period of time beyond the date indicated by the licensed physician, PA, APRN, or CNP certified to prescribe medication, or licensed dentist or as directed on the manufacturer's instructions.

(3) Apply non-prescription topical products and lotions according to the manufacturer's instructions.

(4) Document each administration or application immediately after administering, including when school-age children administer their own medication. This excludes non-prescription topical products and lotions.

(5) Follow prescribed dosages or the manufacturer's recommended dosages for administering non-prescription medication.

(6) Complete separate documentation for each medication to be administered for each child, excluding the exempted items in paragraph (A)(2) of this rule. Written permission is valid for the time period specified on the permission, not to exceed twelve months from the date of signature.

(D) What are the requirements for storing medication, topical products and medical foods in a child day camp?

The child day camp is to:

(1) Safely store all medication, medical foods, and topical products immediately upon arrival at the camp. Ensure the medication, medical food, or topical product is stored per the requirements on the label in the original container with the child's name affixed. Non-prescription medications and topicals are to have a manufacturer's label containing directions based on the age and/or weight of the child.

(2) Keep medication, medical foods, and topical products out of the reach of children, unless a school-age child is permitted to carry their own emergency medication and documentation is completed and on file at the camp. If a school-age child is permitted to carry their own emergency medication, it is to be carried on their person or stored away from children in a location that only that child and child day camp staff members can access.

(3) Refrigerate, in a separate container, medications, medical foods, or topical products, if needed.

(4) Ensure that medications, medical foods, and topical products are accessible to child day camp staff members at all times.

(5) Ensure that medications, medical foods, and topical products are removed from the child day camp when no longer needed. Medication is to be discarded when expired, unless documentation is provided by a physician for continued use.

(E) What if a child has a special need or health condition?

(1) A written medical care plan shall be used for children with a condition or diagnosis that requires specific care and/or intervention by child day camp staff. The written plan shall include the following:

(a) The symptoms the staff should monitor which may require staff to take action.

(b) Administering procedures which require staff to be trained on those procedures.

(c) Avoiding specific food(s), environmental conditions or activities.

(d) Permission for the child to carry and administer their own emergency medication, if applicable.

(2) The approved child day camp is to:

(a) Ensure that there is a completed written medical care plan for each condition per child.

(b) Implement and follow all requirements of each child's medical care plan.

(c) Ensure that all child day camp staff members who are trained to perform the medical procedure have signed the medical care plan.

(d) Ensure that there is at least one child day camp staff member caring for the child at all times who has signed the medical care plan on the child's condition. This includes on-site at field trips.

(e) Keep the medical care plan in a location that can be easily and quickly accessed at all times, including being removed from the approved child day camp if there is an emergency where the children need to be moved to another location.

(3) The written medical care plan shall be on file with the approved child day camp by the first day of attendance or upon confirmation of a health condition.

(4) If the approved child day camp suspects that a child has a health condition, the camp may require a physician's statement within a designated timeframe.

(5) Only staff members trained on the child's needs and required procedures shall be permitted to perform medical procedures or other action needed for a health condition or a special need.

(F) What are the child immunization record requirements for an approved child day camp?

(1) A child who is not enrolled in a public or nonpublic school is to have a dated record of immunizations on file within thirty days of the child's first day of attendance.

(2) The immunization record is to contain the following information:

(a) The child's name and birth date.

(b) A record of the immunizations that the child has had, specifying the month, day, and year of each immunization.

(3) Immunization requirements as outlined in section 5104.014 of the Revised Code can be found in appendix A to this rule.

(G) What are the immunization record exemptions for children in an approved child day camp?

A child may be exempt from the immunization record requirements if one or more of the following statements are provided:

(1) A statement from a licensed physician, physician assistant (PA), or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) that one or more of the following apply:

(a) The child is in the process of being immunized.

(b) An immunization against a disease is medically contraindicated for the child.

(c) An immunization against a disease is not medically appropriate for the child's age.

(2) A statement from the child's parent that he or she has declined to have the child immunized against the disease for reasons of conscience, including religious convictions.

(H) What information regarding children's records can be shared?

Children's records are confidential but are to be available to DCY for the purpose of administering Chapter 5104. of the Revised Code and Chapter 5180:2-18 of the Administrative Code. The immunization records are to be subject to review by the Ohio department of health (ODH) for disease outbreak control and for immunization level assessment purposes.

(I) How long are child records to be kept on file at the camp?

All child records, medical care plans as well as written permission to administer medication or medical foods from parent or physicians are to be kept on file for twelve months from the date the documentation is signed or updated, which ever is later, even if the child no longer attends the camp or the documentation is no longer required for the child.

View Appendix

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/27/2023

Rule 5180:2-18-12 | Transportation and field trip safety for an approved child day camp.

• Effective: April 27, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What shall be available on all trips, including routine walking trips?

The approved child day camp is to:

(1) Have written and signed permission from the parent before transporting or escorting a child away from the primary use spaces of the approved child day camp for field trips and routine trips as detailed in appendix A to this rule. The permission slips shall be kept on file at the approved day camp for one year.

(2) Have the information pursuant to rule 5101:2-18-05 of the Administrative Code for each child on the trip, except routine walks.

(3) Have the written medical form pursuant to rule 5101:2-18-11 of the Administrative Code for any child who has a health condition which could require medications, special procedures or precautions during the course of the trip. The approved child day camp shall also take supplies needed to provide such treatment.

(4) Have a working cellular phone or other means of immediate communication. Cellular phones shall not be used by a driver while the vehicle is in motion.

(5) Ensure that the child day camp staff member responsible for each child on the field trip maintains a written record of which vehicle each child is being transported in and the cellular phone number of the adult in that vehicle who could be contacted in an emergency.

(6) Ensure that a person trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid in accordance with rule 5101:2-18-08 of the Administrative Code shall be present in the vehicle for routine trips and field trips and at the destination on all field trips. More than one person may be used to meet this requirement.

(7) Ensure that if the vehicle used to transport children is manufactured with seat belts, they shall be utilized by all the adults and children in the vehicle, and no more than one person shall be strapped in each seat belt. Children or adults shall not be permitted to stand in a moving vehicle, sit on the floor or ride in a vehicle where all seats are not securely anchored.

(8) Ensure that reasonable accommodations are provided for children with special health needs, so that children are not excluded from trips because of a special health need.

(B) What are the ratio and supervision requirements for trips, including routine walking trips?

The approved child day camp is to:

(1) Meet the staff/child ratio requirements of rule 5101:2-18-09 of the Administrative Code on field trips and routine trips. Children shall be assigned to specific child day camp staff members for all field trips.

(2) Ensure an additional adult is present in the vehicle for every ten children, or the driver has a means of immediate communication, such as a cellular phone, to summon an additional adult. The additional adult in the vehicle may be the driver, parent or volunteer.

(3) Ensure the staff/child ratio requirements of rule 5101:2-18-09 of the Administrative Code are met while children are being transported if public transportation is being utilized.

(4) Ensure that an adult is present in the vehicle any time children are in the vehicle. At no time are children to be left unattended.

(5) Check the vehicle at completion of each trip to ensure that no child has been left in the vehicle.

(6) Ensure that during routine walking trips or walking field trips, an additional adult is present for every ten school-age children.

(C) What are the requirements for drivers who are used in the staff/child ratio or are child day camp staff members?

The driver shall:

(1) Be at least eighteen years old.

(2) On routine trips, be an employee or child day camp staff member with the exception of contracted transportation services.

(3) Never leave children alone in a vehicle, including leaving children in the vehicle when it is being refueled, except when a trip is of such a length as to require refueling after starting with a full tank.

(4) Meet the requirements of an employee or child day camp staff member as required in rule 5101:2-18-06 of the Administrative Code.

(5) Ensure that all passengers, including the driver, follow the state of Ohio's child restraint law found in section 4511.81 of the Revised Code when transporting children enrolled in the approved child day camp.

(6) Not allow children under twelve years of age to ride in the front seat of any vehicle.

(7) Be trained utilizing the American camp association (ACA) training for drivers standards and the ACA accident procedures standards if the driver is an employee of the approved child day camp.

(a) A trained driver is not required when public transportation is being utilized, or if the driver is a contracted driver.

(b) Training for transportation shall be completed at least annually for all drivers and shall be documented and kept on file at the approved child day camp in the employee's or the child day camp staff member's file for review by ODJFS.

(8) Contracted drivers are not used in staff/child ratios and are not employees of the child day camp. For these drivers, the administrator is to keep the transportation contract on file for review.

(D) What are the vehicle requirements for the approved child day camp?

Any vehicle operated by the child day camp or driven by a child day camp staff member to transport children for routine trips or field trips shall be mechanically safe at all times.

(E) When shall vehicles used for transporting children be inspected?

(1) The approved child day camp shall maintain documentation that staff have performed weekly inspections followed by any necessary repairs or other appropriate actions, for the following items:

(a) A visual inspection of the vehicle's tires for wear and adequate pressure.

(b) A visual inspection for working headlights and taillights, signals, mirrors, wiper blades and dash gauges.

(c) An inspection for properly functioning child and driver restraints.

(d) An inspection for properly functioning doors and windows.

(e) An inspection for, and cleaning of, debris from the vehicle's interior.

(2) The child day camp shall require providers of transportation services to maintain documentation that the transportation services staff have performed the required weekly inspections and necessary repairs or other appropriate actions required by paragraph (E)(1) of this rule.

(F) What are the requirements for the vehicle safety inspection?

(1) The safety inspection shall be performed within the month prior to seasonal use. A new vehicle purchased directly from the dealer is to have the safety check completed before one year from the date of purchase. The bill of sale from the vehicle purchase is to be maintained on file at the approved child day camp to verify compliance.

(2) The safety inspection shall be performed by an automotive service excellence (ASE) certified mechanic, federal motor carrier safety administration (FMCSA) safety inspector, or the Ohio state highway patrol.

(a) A vehicle sticker issued from the Ohio state highway patrol indicating the vehicle has passed a school bus or personal vehicle inspection may be used to meet this requirement.

(b) School buses and multifunction school activity buses which are inspected and licensed by the Ohio state highway patrol are exempt from the seasonal safety check required in this rule. The approved child day camp is to prepare the buses before each trip following the Ohio department of education's operational and safety rules of Chapter 3301-83 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Verification of the safety check shall be documented on the JFS 01230 "Vehicle Inspection Report for Child Care Centers." This verification shall include notation and correction of any safety violation and shall be maintained on file at the approved child day camp for review by ODJFS.

View Appendix

Last updated January 30, 2026 at 4:14 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 4/27/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 4/16/2018

Rule 5180:2-18-13 | Safe and sanitary equipment and environment in an approved child day camp.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the safe equipment requirements for a child day camp approved by the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY)?

The approved child day camp is to:

(1) Ensure that materials and furniture shall be sturdy, safe, easy to clean and maintain, and in good condition.

(2) Ensure that equipment and materials which are not usable due to breakage or being a hazard are removed immediately and stored away from children until repaired or replaced.

(3) Ensure that all children's equipment is used in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines.

(4) Ensure that safety gear required for an activity is appropriately sized and designed specifically for the activity being conducted.

(5) Ensure that air conditioners, heat pumps, electric fans and space heaters are mounted or placed out of the reach of children or have safeguards which prevent children from being injured.

(B) What are the safe environment requirements for an approved child day camp?

(1) Illegal drugs and substances shall not be on the premises. Alcohol shall be inaccessible to children and shall only be kept in areas not approved or used by children.

(2) Buildings used by children shall maintain an indoor temperature of at least sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit. If a building used by children exceeds eighty-five degrees Fahrenheit, ventilation that produces air movement, or air conditioning, shall be provided.

(3) Children shall be protected from any items and conditions which threaten their health, safety and well being, including but not limited to: electrical cords, extension cords, lead hazards, asbestos, wells, vehicular traffic, bodies of water, employee's personal belongings and other environmental hazards and dangerous situations. If a potential lead hazard is identified, DCY will make a referral to the appropriate agency.

(4) Cleaning agents and all other chemical substances shall be stored in a designated area in their original containers and/or clearly labeled. Children may use cleaning equipment, supplies, and cleaning agents with adult supervision.

(5) Specialized activity equipment that is potentially hazardous in nature, such as, but not limited to rifles, pellet guns, and, air guns, for all firearem activities shall be kept inaccessible to children and out of sight of children, and secured in lock storage areas when the equipment is not in use.

(6) Children shall not have access to specialized activity areas unless supervised by qualified child day camp staff members.

(7) Safety zones and boundaries shall be required for all specialized activities, as necessary. All persons who may be close to the area for any reason must be aware of and oriented to the safety zones and boundaries. Camps may use posted signs or warnings, physical barriers, or specific scheduling procedures to control access to these areas.

(8) Renovations and remodeling to areas in which programming takes place and children have access is to be conducted in a safe manner to ensure that lead poison hazards are not introduced into the environment as required by Chapter 3742. of the Revised Code.

(C) What are the swimming and water safety requirements for an approved child day camp?

(1) All swimming sites shall meet all state and local guidelines for environmental health inspections. Inspection reports for on-site and private pools shall be on file at the approved child day camp.

(2) An approved child day camp shall have one lifeguard present for every thirty-five children when children are involved in a water activity for on-site and private pools over eighteen inches in depth.

(3) Activities in bodies of water eighteen inches or more in depth, including natural bodies of water as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code, shall be supervised by people who are currently certified as lifeguards or water safety instructors by the "American Red Cross" or an equivalent water safety program, as determined by the American camp association (ACA) or DCY. If the lifeguard is a child day camp staff member, they shall not be counted as a child day camp staff member in the staff/child ratio.

(4) Child day camp staff members shall be actively supervising children pursuant to rule 5180:2-18-09 of the Administrative Code and shall be able to clearly see all parts of the swimming area.

(5) When children are engaged in water activities, supervision of children shall include a minimum of two child day camp staff members, one of whom is eighteen years of age or older.

(D) What are the requirements for animals owned or utilized for programming by the approved child day camp?

The approved child day camp is to:

(1) Permit pets and animals if they present no apparent threat to the safety or health of the children.

(2) Ensure that pets and animals that are owned by the approved child day camp, live at any approved child day camp primary use spaces, or are utilized by the approved child day camp for program activities, are properly housed, cared for,. All local and state ordinances governing the keeping of animals (exotic or domesticated) shall be followed and updated as required.

(3) Ensure that children feed or care for animals under the supervision of child day camp staff members.

(4) Ensure that children are not directly exposed to animal urine or feces inside buildings or in outdoor play areas.

(E) What are the requirements to provide and maintain a clean environment, furniture, materials and equipment in an approved child day camp?

(1) Flush toilets and bathroom sinks, if available, shall be in good working condition. Toilet tissue, liquid soap, running water, individually assigned towels, disposable towels or air dryers shall be provided in all bathrooms. If programming activities take place at a primitive campsite as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code, or if portable bathrooms are used, waterless hand sanitizing products may be provided instead of running water and liquid soap.

(2) Equipment, furnishings and materials shall be kept clean and in good repair.

(3) Accumulated trash and garbage shall be stored away from the outdoor and/or indoor camp activity areas and shall not be accessible to the children.

(4) Buildings and areas used by children shall be cleaned daily and kept in a sanitary condition at all times.

(5) If the water at the child day camp's primary use area(s) is not publicly supplied, the child day camp shall contact the Ohio environmental protection agency (EPA) to determine if it qualifies as a public water system.

(a) If the water supply qualifies as a public water system, the child day camp shall comply with Ohio EPA standards.

(b) If the water supply does not qualify as a public water system, the child day camp shall contact the local health department to have the water tested and follow any additional requirements requested by the health department. A copy of the water test shall be retained at the approved child day camp and be made available upon request.

(c) If child day camp activities take place at a primitive campsite as defined in rule 5180:2-18-01 of the Administrative Code, appropriate water purification methods based on advice from local officials shall be used before water from natural sources may be consumed by children.

(6) On-site sewage disposal systems shall not present a public health hazard.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5104.21, 5104.22
Amplifies: 5104.21, 5104.22
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/16/2018, 4/27/2023