Chapter DCF 252
Licensing Rules for Day Camps for Children with Commentary

Register March No. 843A4

Licensing rules effective August 1, 2026.

Section 48.65, Stats., requires that persons who provide, for compensation, care and supervision for 4 or more children under 7 years of age for less than 24 hours a day must be licensed by the department.

The same statute directs the department to establish rules that must be met for a person to qualify for a license and that protect and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the children in a child care center. Chapter DCF 252 establishes the minimum level of acceptable care that a licensee is to provide to children in a day camp in Wisconsin. DCF 250 is the rule for Family Child Care Centers where care and supervision is provided for between 4 and 12 children under age 7. DCF 251 is the rule governing Group Child Care Centers, where care and supervision is provided to 13 or more children.

These rules should not be confused with accreditation by professional organizations which is based upon conformity with ideal rather than minimal standards. Licensing rules should also not be confused with certification for public funding of child care providers who care for between 1 and 3 children under age 7.

The fact that a day camp is licensed in no way diminishes the responsibility of parents for vigilance in ensuring that their children are receiving care that protects their physical well−being and encourages healthy intellectual and emotional development.

Whenever the rules in this chapter indicate that materials such as an application for licensure, a request for exception to a specific rule, or a complaint about a camp are to be sent to or requested from the department, please refer to Appendix A, which identifies the appropriate regional licensing office serving the county or tribe in which the camp is located.

There is a header on each page that contains the rule cite for the section of the rule beginning on that page. A table of contents and an index are also included in this document as are appendices that contain key statutes related to the day camp rules and a copy of DCF 13 (administrative rules governing child care background checks).

This publication may be duplicated. It is available from the department’s licensing rules webpage.

DCF 252.02 Authority and Purpose

(1) Authority
This chapter is promulgated under the authority of s. 48.67, Stats., to establish licensing requirements under s. 48.65, Stats., for day camps for children.

(2) Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to protect and promote the health, safety and welfare of children being cared for in day camps in Wisconsin.

(3) Construction
This chapter shall be liberally construed to effect the objectives in sub. (2).

(4) Exception
to a requirement. The department may grant an exception to a requirement of this chapter when it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the department that granting the exception will not jeopardize the health, safety or welfare of the children served. A request for an exception shall be in writing, shall be sent to the department, and shall include justification for the requested action and an explanation of the alternative provisions planned to meet the intent of the requirement.
Note: A request for an exception to a requirement of this chapter should be sent to the appropriate regional office of the department’s Division of Early Care and Education. See Appendix A for addresses of those regional offices.

252.02 Commentary

Commentary: The Exception Request form is the preferred format for the request. A request in the form of correspondence will be accepted as an alternative. The exception request must include the rule number for which the exception is being requested; the signature of the licensee or the person previously delegated in writing by the licensee to have the authority to sign official documents or correspondence; and the alternative plan to meet the intent of the rule.

The exception to the rule may not be implemented until the exception request has been approved by the department.

Failure to comply with the conditions of the exception may result in withdrawal of the exception and/or initiation of other enforcement actions, such as forfeiture or revocation of the license.

DCF 252.03 Included and Excluded Care Arrangements

This chapter applies to all day camps but it does not apply to family child care centers regulated under ch. DCF 250, group child care centers regulated under ch. DCF 251, or any of the following:
Note: Section 48.65, Stats., exempts parents, guardians and certain other relatives; public and parochial (private) schools; persons employed to come to the home of the child’s parent to provide care for less than 24 hours per day; and counties, cities, villages, towns, school districts, and libraries that provide programs for children primarily intended for social or recreational purposes from the requirement for a license. As specified under s. 49.155 (4), Stats., or s. DCF 201.04 (1), programs, other than those operated by public schools, are required to be licensed by the department or certified by a county agency in order to be eligible to receive a child care subsidy.

252.03 Commentary: Commentary: Camps occasionally offering an overnight activity for children enrolled in the camp that occurs on the premises of a licensed day camp may do so if parents are informed that the camp is not licensed during that time period. If the camp wishes to operate during this time as a licensed facility, an exception must be requested. Camps should also check with their insurance company to ensure coverage during this time.
Residential camps are licensed under ATCP 78. A program must be licensed as a residential camp if the children stay overnight for 4 or more consecutive nights.

(1) Group lessons to develop a talent or skill, such as dance or music lessons, social group meetings and activities, and group athletic activities.

(1m) Care and supervision of children in a program, including religious education classes, which operates no more than 4 hours a week.

(2) Care and supervision while the parents are on the premises and are engaged in shopping, recreation or other non-work activities.

(3) Seasonal programs of 10 days or less duration in any 3-month period, including day camps, vacation bible school and holiday child care programs.

(4) Care and supervision in emergency situations.

252.03(4) Commentary: Commentary: “Emergency situation” means a scenario where there is an unforeseen circumstance that poses a significant risk or threat to the safety or wellbeing of individuals involved that requires immediate attention. Examples can include but are not limited to severe weather, national emergency, natural disasters, and security threats.

(5) Care and supervision while the parent is employed on the premises if the parent’s child receives care and supervision for no more than 3 hours a day.

(6) Care and supervision at the site while the parent who is a recipient of temporary assistance to needy families or Wisconsin Works is involved in orientation, enrollment or initial assessment prior to the development of an employability plan.

DCF 252.04 Definitions

In this subchapter:

(1r) “Background check request form” means a form prescribed by the department on which a person completes required information for the child care background check under s. 48.686, Stats., and ch. DCF 13.
Note: Form DCF-F-5296, Background Check Request, is available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

(1g) “Abusive head trauma” means a serious type of head injury, including shaken baby syndrome, that is caused by shaking, throwing, hitting, slamming, or jerking.

(1k) “Administrative authority” means a licensee’s decision-making power regarding the day camp.

(1n) “Assistant counselor” means a counselor who works under the direct supervision of a lead counselor.

(2) “Base camp” means the permanent or temporary premises, public or private, on which the day camp is operated.

252.04(2) Commentary: See DCF 252.43 (1) (a) – BASE CAMP ENVIRONMENT.

(3) “Camp director” means the individual on the campsite who is responsible for the administration of the camp, including program operations, staff supervision, business operations, food service, health service, and other supportive services.

(3g) “Camp-provided transportation” means transportation provided in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted for by the camp or transportation provided in volunteer or staff-owned vehicles regardless of whether the driver is reimbursed for the use of the vehicle.

252.04(3g) Commentary: Transportation provided by rideshare companies, such as Uber or Lyft, is contracted transportation and therefore is considered to be camp-provided transportation.

(4) “Care” means providing for the safety and the developmental needs of a child in a day camp.

(4m) “Child care background check” means the requirements in s. 48.686, Stats., and ch. DCF 13.

(5) “Complaint” means an allegation that a provision of this chapter or of ch. 48, Stats., has been violated.

(8) “Counselor” or “camp counselor” means a lead counselor or an assistant counselor who works directly with children.

(9) “Day camp” or “camp” means a program regulated under this chapter that provides care and supervision to 4 or more children 3 years of age and older in a seasonal program oriented to the out-of-doors for periods less than 24 hours a day.

252.04(9) Commentary

See s.48.65., Wis. Stats.
See DCF 252.44 (1) (a) – PLANNED PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES.

(11) “Department” means the Wisconsin department of children and families.

(11m) “Division” means the department’s division of early care and education.

(12) “Emergency” means unforeseen circumstances that require immediate attention.

(13) “Field trip” means any experience a child has away from the premises of the camp while under the care of camp staff whether the child walks or is transported.

(13m) “Fit and qualified” means displaying the capacity to successfully nurture and care for children and may include consideration of any of the following:

(a) Abuse of alcohol or drugs.

(b) A history of a civil or criminal conviction or administrative rule violation that is substantially related to the care of children, as determined under s. DCF 13.05.

(d) A history of civil or criminal offenses or any other actions that demonstrate an inability to manage financial resources or the activities of a camp.

(14) “Group” means a specific number of children who have a regularly assigned counselor responsible for the children’s well-being and meeting the children’s basic needs.

(15) “Hazard” means a potential source of harm that can jeopardize the health, safety or well-being of children in care.

(15g) “Hours of operation” means the hours within the terms of the license during which children are actually in the care of the camp.

(15m) “In care” means the camp is providing supervision, either on or off the premises, including during camp-provided transportation, for the safety and developmental needs of the child or children.

252.04(15m) Commentary: Junior counselors or counselors in training are considered in care when parents pay the camp for the child to attend. Junior counselors/counselors in training may assist with activities but may not be responsible for the supervision of children.

Examples of tasks that junior counselors may not do include but are not limited to disciplining children and supervising children alone. Junior counselors are meant for extra support to counselors and should be with a counselor at all times if they work with children.

See DCF 252.09 (7) (a) – CENTER RESPONSIBILITY FOR CHILD DURING TRANSPORTATION.

(16) “Inclement weather” means stormy or severe weather such as any of the following:

252.04(16) Commentary: The air quality index (AQI) is an index for reporting daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted the air around you is and what associated health effects might be a concern. The higher an AQI value is the higher the level of air pollution present and the greater the health concern. For example, children who have asthma may be affected playing outdoors when the index reaches 101 – 150.

See DCF 252.44 (1) (b) 4. – PROVIDE DAILY OUTDOOR PLAY OPPORTUNITIES.

See Appendix D Resources List, Child Care Weather Watch – Wisconsin.

(a) Heavy rain.

(b) Temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

252.04(16)(b) Commentary: The heat index (HI) is an index that combines air temperature and relative humidity in an attempt to determine the human-perceived equivalent temperature – how hot it feels – termed the felt air temperature.

252.04(16)(c) Commentary: Centers should monitor outdoor conditions for their current physical location. This includes weather, air quality, and any regional conditional notices. The Department of Natural Resources website includes an air quality data map designed to help residents stay informed about air quality conditions in real time.

(16g) “Lead counselor” means a counselor who meets the qualifications under s. DCF 252.42 (2) (d).

(16m) “Licensed hours” means the authorized hours specified on the license certificate and letter of transmittal within which the day camp may provide child care services.

(17) “Licensee” means the corporation, individual, partnership or non-incorporated association or cooperative which has legal and financial responsibility for the operation of a day camp and for meeting the requirements of this chapter.

252.04(17) Commentary: Commentary: A licensee may also include a Limited Liability Company (LLC)

(18) “Licensing representative” means a department employee responsible for licensing day camps.

252.04(18) Commentary: Commentary: A person monitoring a day camp for purposes of department initiatives (such as child care subsidy) is also considered a licensing representative.

(19) “Parent” means either “parent” as defined in s. 48.02 (13), Stats., or “guardian” as defined in s. 48.02 (8), Stats.

(21) “Parochial or private school” means an educational program which meets all the criteria specified under s. 118.165 (1), Stats., or as determined by the superintendent of public instruction under s. 118.167, Stats.

252.04(21) Commentary: (1) An institution is a private school if its education program meets all of the following criteria:
(a) The primary purpose of the program is to provide private or religious-based education.
(b) The program is privately controlled.
(c) The program provides at least 875 hours of instruction each school year.
(d) The program provides a sequentially progressive curriculum of fundamental instruction in reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science and health. The subsection does not require the program to include in its curriculum any concept, topic or practice in conflict with the program’s religious doctrines or to exclude from its curriculum any concept, topic or practice consistent with the program’s religious doctrines.
(e) The program is not operated or instituted for the purpose of avoiding or circumventing the compulsory school attendance requirement under s. 188.15(1)(a) and (am), Wis. Stats.
(f) The pupils in the institution’s educational program, in the ordinary course of events, return annually to the homes of their parents or guardians for not less than 2 months of summer vacation, or the institution is licensed as a child welfare agency under s. 48.60(1), Wis. Stats.

(2) An institution may request the state superintendent to approve the institution’s educational program as a private school. The state superintendent shall base its approval solely on the criteria under sub. (1). s. 118.167, Wis. Stats., Private school determination by state superintendent. If an association that regulates or accredits private education institutions in this state submits an affidavit to the state superintendent attesting that the institution meets or exceeds all of the criteria under s. 118.165 and the state superintendent finds that the institution does meet or exceeds all of the criteria under s. 118.165, the state superintendent shall determine that the institution is a private school. If at any time the state superintendent finds that an institution determined to be a private school under this section no longer meets the criteria under s. 118.165, the state superintendent may withdraw the determination.

(21g) “Pet” means an animal kept for amusement or companionship.

(21r) “Physical restraint” means the use of physical force to restrict the free movement of all or part of a child’s body.

(22m) “Pre-camp training” means a program developed by the licensee containing the elements specified in s. DCF 252.42 (3) and attended by camp staff prior to the opening of each year’s camp session.

(23) “Premises” means a tract of land on which the camp is located, including all buildings, structures, or shelters on that land.

(23m) “Regularly assigned counselor” means a person who meet the requirements of a counselor under s. DCF 252.42 and who is assigned to a specific group of children.

(24) “Shaken baby syndrome” or “SBS” means a severe form of brain injury that occurs when an infant or young child is shaken or thrown forcibly enough to cause the brain to rebound against his or her skull.

252.04(24) Commentary: Commentary: See DCF 252.04 (1G) – DEFINITION – ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA.

(25) “Supervision of children” means guidance of the behavior and activities of children for their health, safety, and well-being by counselors who are close enough to prevent harm and ensure safety.

(26) “Supervision of staff” means guidance of the behavior and activities of camp employees which may include provision of instructions to carry out activities for limited periods of time out of sight or hearing of the supervisor.

(27) “Universal precautions” mean measures taken to prevent transmission of infection from contact with blood or other potentially infectious material, as recommended by the U.S. public health services centers for disease control and adopted by the U.S. occupational safety and health administration (OSHA) as 29 CFR 1910.1030.

Note: “Standard precautions” for infection control measures incorporate universal precautions. Information on the OSHA requirements related to standard or universal precautions is available on the OSHA website at OSHA. Information is also available from the Child Care Information Center, 1-800-362-7353.

(28) “Volunteer” means a person who agrees to give time, with or without reimbursement for expenses, to provide transportation or to work in a day camp.

(29) “Waterfront supervisor” means an adult present in a water activity area during times when children are using the water and who meets the requirements under s. DCF 252.44 (7) (b).

DCF 252.05 Licensing Administration

(1) Licensing procedures

(a) A person making an inquiry to the department about obtaining a license to operate a day camp shall be provided with all of the following:

1. A copy of this chapter.

2. Written procedures on how to obtain a day camp license.

2m. A copy of the Background Check Request form.

3. An opportunity to meet with a licensing representative to discuss the materials.

4. The necessary forms if licensing is desired.

5. Assistance to complete the licensing process by a licensing representative.
Note: A packet of materials, including the Initial License Application — Day Camps for Children, is available from any of the regional offices listed in Appendix A.

(b) An applicant shall submit an application and other materials required for day camp licensure and license continuation on forms provided by the department at least:

1. Sixty days prior to the date proposed for the camp to begin operating.

2. Thirty days prior to the end of the current license continuation period.

(c) An applicant for an initial day camp license or a licensee continuing a regular license shall complete all forms truthfully and accurately, pay all fees and forfeitures due to the department, and submit all of the following materials to the department:

DCF 252.05(1)(c) Commentary: The licensee of a camp is required to sign any documents. The licensee may designate another individual to sign on the licensee’s behalf.

1. A clearly defined statement of purpose as it relates to the provision of child care services.

2. A signed statement by the applicant or licensee accepting legal responsibility for complying with this chapter.

3. The articles of incorporation and by-laws if the camp is organized as a corporation, association or cooperative or, if the licensee is a limited liability company, a copy of the articles of organization and the operating agreement, if any.

4. A signed authorization which permits the department to make whatever investigation it considers necessary for the verification of pertinent application information.

5. A general description of the camp area, geographic location and size of the base camp or the proposed itinerary of field trips if a program will consist primarily of field trips.

6. A written delegation of administrative authority signed by the licensee. The delegation of administrative authority shall describe the organizational structure of the camp and identify by position or name those persons on the premises in charge of the camp for all hours of operation.

7. The name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted by the licensing representative for the pre-camp licensing review.

8. A statement from the state laboratory of hygiene or a state approved laboratory indicating that the water from a private well providing drinking water has been tested and found to be safe.

9. The license fee required under s. 48.65, Stats., applicable fees for child care background checks under s. 48.686, Stats., any unpaid forfeiture under s. 48.715 (3) or 49.155 (7m) (a) 3., Stats., and any unpaid penalty under s. 48.76, Stats.

10. For an initial license application, a completed Background Check Request form for the applicant and if the camp will be located in a residence, any household member 10 years of age and above.
Note: The background check request form is used for reporting background information. Information on how to request a background check is available at Background Check Checklist: Requesting a Background Check on the department's website.

DCF 252.05(1)(c)10 Commentary: The board president of a corporation or all members of a limited liability company (LLC) are considered the licensee for the purposes of a child care background check (CBC). A CBC will be conducted on the board president unless s/he designates another member of the board as the individual who will have the CBC completed on behalf of the corporation. A CBC will be conducted on all members of an LLC unless the operating agreement specifies an individual who will have the CBC completed on behalf of the LLC.

Resident camp employees do not meet the definition of a caregiver and can be excluded as household members. It must be made clear that staff lodging is not considered part of the day camp program and the day camp must have a procedure in place to ensure there is no unsupervised access to children in care.

See Appendix C Chapter DCF 13 Child Care Background Checks and the Child Care Background Check Requirements on the department's website.

11. A statement from the applicant that indicates the camp is in compliance with this chapter.

12. A copy of all the policies required under s. DCF 252.41 (1) (f) and a completed copy of the day camp policy checklist on a form provided by the department.
Note: Information on how to obtain a copy of the form, Policy Checklist — Day Camp, is available at Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or from any of the regional offices in Appendix A.

13. The test results from the water on any beach on the premises of the camp that will be used for waterfront activities by the children in care.

DCF 252.05(1)(c)13 Commentary

The camp must comply with any local ordinances related to the testing of water on a beach.

See DCF 252.44 (7) (a) – DEFINITION – WATERFRONT.

14. A report indicating that any building used primarily for day camp purposes is in compliance with applicable commercial building codes.

DCF 252.05(1)(c)14 Commentary: See DCF 252.43 (1) (d) – BASE CAMP BUILDINGS.

15. Any other materials determined by the department as necessary to complete the department’s licensing investigation.

(d) Upon submission of a complete application, a licensing representative shall conduct an investigation to determine whether the applicant is eligible for a license.

(e) If the department determines that the applicant for an initial license is eligible for a license, the department shall issue a probationary license having a 6-month duration. A probationary license may be renewed for one 6-month period.

(f) If the department determines that an application for an initial license does not comply with the applicable requirements of this chapter or the department’s investigation determines that the applicant is not eligible for a license, the department may deny the application.

(g) A regular license shall be valid indefinitely, unless suspended or revoked by the department or surrendered by the licensee. The department shall review a regular license every 2 years after the date of issuance.

(h) If the department determines that the licensee continuing a regular license has met the minimum requirements for a license under this chapter, has paid the applicable fees referred to in ss. 48.65 and 48.686, Stats., any unpaid forfeiture under s. 48.715 (3) (a) or 49.155 (7m) (a) 3., Stats., and any unpaid penalty under s. 48.76, Stats., the department shall continue the license for an additional 2 years.

(i) The department may refuse to issue or continue a license if another child care center or day camp operated by the licensee is in substantial non-compliance with the licensing rules or has any outstanding forfeiture or penalty.

(j) The department may not process an application for a license if the applicant has had a child care license under s. 48.65, Stats., or a child care certification under s. 48.651, Stats., revoked or denied within the last 2 years. No person may submit an application for a licensee and no licensee may hire a person who had a child care license revoked or denied within the previous 2 years.

(k) The department shall consider a licensee who fails to submit any of the materials described in par. (c) by the expiration or continuation date of a license to have surrendered his or her license and to no longer hold title to the license. The former licensee may not continue to operate the day camp.

(2) Amendment to license

A written request for an amendment to the license shall be submitted to the department by the licensee before changes are made in the conditions of the current license such as a change in the licensed capacity of the camp, age range of children, hours, days of the week, months of the year in operation or change in the name of the camp.

(3) Terms of license

(a) The number of children under 7 years of age in care of the center at any one time may not exceed the number for which the center is licensed.

252.05(3)(a) Commentary: Licensed capacity may not be exceeded at any time. If a camp over-enrolls based on an absentee rate or has an occasional drop in, the camp must be sure that over-enrollment will not result in the camp being over capacity.

(b) The age of children served may not be younger or older than the age range specified in the terms of the license.

252.05(3)(a) Commentary: Section 48.65, Wis. Stats., requires programs that provide care to 4 or more children under age 7 to be licensed. Camps who serve a mix of children both under and over age 7 must decide whether to license the entire program or only the portion of the program that serves children under age 7. If the camp chooses to license the entire program, the entire program is subject to the licensing rules. If the camp chooses to license only the portion of the program that serves children under age 7, the groups of children under age 7 and the groups of children age 7 and over must have separate spaces and staff.

If children 7 years of age and older are served in the same space with children less than 7 years of age, a license for the actual age range to be served within the licensed capacity is issued. Developmentally appropriate equipment and supplies must be available.

Regulated and non-regulated portions of a day camp may be combined during transportation; however, the appropriate licensing rules must be met during transportation. See DCF 252.09 – TRANSPORTATION.

A license may be granted for the care of children through age 17. If a provider wishes to care for a child above or below the specified age on the license, an exception should be requested or the license should be amended. For example, if a provider who is licensed up to age 12 and wishes to care for one child age 14, the exception or amendment must be approved by the center’s assigned Licensing Specialist. The exception must be granted prior to caring for a child above or below the ages specified on the license; however, a camp may not care for children under age 3.

252.05(3)(c) Commentary: Licensed Hours: Authorized hours specified on the license certificate within which the camp may provide child care services.

Hours of Operation: Hours within the term of the license during which children are actually in the care of the camp.

(4) Additional license

A licensee seeking licensure for an additional day camp or child care center location shall demonstrate compliance with applicable parts of this chapter in the operation of the existing center. The licensee shall pay any fines, forfeitures or other fees due to the department under s. 48.715, Stats., on other facilities licensed by the department before the department issues an additional license.

(5) Condition of licensure

The department may deny a license or may suspend or revoke a license, initiate other enforcement actions specified in this chapter or in ch. 48, Stats., or place conditions on a license if the licensee, applicant or proposed or current employee, volunteer, household member or any other person having regular contact with children is, or has been any of the following:

(a) The subject of a pending criminal charge if the charge substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

(b) Convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or other offense which substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

(c) Determined to have abused or neglected a child pursuant to s. 48.981, Stats., or has been determined to have committed an offense which substantially relates to the care of children or the activities of the camp.

(d) The subject of a court finding that the person has abandoned his or her child, has inflicted sexual or physical abuse on a child or has neglected or refused, for reasons other than poverty, to provide necessary care, food, clothing, medical or dental care or shelter so as to seriously endanger the physical health of a child.

(e) The subject of a substantiated finding of misconduct in the department’s nurse aide registry under s. DHS 129.10.

(f) Had a child care center license, day camp license or certification revoked or denied within the last 5 years.

(g) Violated any provision of this chapter or ch. 48, Stats., or fails to meet the minimum requirements of this chapter.

(h) Made false statements or withheld information.

(6) Summary suspension of a license

(a) Under the authority of s. 227.51 (3), Stats., the department may order the summary suspension of a license and, therefore, close a day camp when the department finds the public health, safety or welfare requires emergency action and incorporates a finding to that effect into its order. A finding of the requirement for summary suspension of the license may be based on any of the following:

1. Failure of the licensee to provide environmental protections for the children such as heat, water, electricity or telephone service.

2. The licensee, an employee, a volunteer, a household member or any other person in regular contact with the children in care has been convicted of or has a pending charge for a crime against life or bodily injury.

3. The licensee, an employee, a volunteer, a household member or any other person in regular contact with the children in care has been convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or other offense or has a pending criminal charge which substantially relates to the circumstances of caring for children or activities of the camp.

4. The licensee, an employee, a volunteer, a household member or any other person in regular contact with the children in care is the subject of a current investigation for alleged child abuse or neglect pursuant to s. 48.981, Stats., or has been determined by a child protected services agency or law enforcement agency to have abused or neglected a child.
Note: Examples of actions the department will consider in making determinations under s. DCF 252.05 (5) and (6), are: abuse and neglect of children; sexual assault; abuse of residents of facilities; crimes against life and bodily security; kidnapping; abduction; arson of buildings or property other than buildings; robbery; receiving property from children; crimes against sexual morality, such as enticing a minor for immoral purposes or exposing minors to harmful materials and interfering with the custody of a child. The list is illustrative. It is not all-inclusive of the types of offenses that may be considered.

5. The licensee or a person under the supervision of the licensee has committed an action or has created a condition relating to the operation or maintenance of the day camp that directly threatens the health, safety or welfare of any child under the care of the licensee.

(b) An initial order summarily suspending the license and closing a day camp may be a verbal order by a licensing representative. The department shall within 72 hours of the closing either permit the reopening of the center or initiate proceedings in accordance with s. 227.51 (3), Stats., for the revocation of the license to operate. A preliminary hearing on the revocation shall be conducted by the department of administration’s division of hearings and appeals within 10 working days after the date of the initial order to close on the issue of whether the license shall remain suspended during revocation proceedings.

(7) License denial or revocation

(a) The department may deny or revoke a license, initiate other enforcement actions specified under this chapter or under ch. 48, Stats., or place conditions on a license if the applicant or licensee, a proposed or current employee, a volunteer or any other person having regular contact with the children, is any of the following:

1. The subject of a pending criminal charge for an action that substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

2. Convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or other offense that substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

3. Determined to have abused or neglected a child pursuant to s. 48.981, Stats., or has been determined to have committed an offense which substantially relates to the care of children or the activities of the camp.

4. The subject of a substantiated finding of misconduct in the department’s nurse aide registry under s. DHS 129.10.

5. The subject of a court finding that the person has abandoned his or her child, has inflicted sexual or physical abuse on a child or has neglected or refused, for reasons other than poverty, to provide necessary care, food, clothing, medical or dental care or shelter for his or her child or ward or a child in his or her care so as to seriously endanger the physical health of the child.

6. Determined to have had a child care center license, day camp license or certification revoked or denied within the last 5 years.

7. Determined to have violated any provision of this chapter or ch. 48, Stats., or fails to meet the minimum requirements of this chapter.

8. Determined to have made false statements or withheld information.

(b) The department may deny, revoke, refuse to renew or suspend a license, initiate other enforcement actions specified in this chapter or in ch. 48, Stats., or place conditions on the license if the applicant or licensee is not fit and qualified as determined under sub. (10) (a).
Note: See DCF 252.04 (13m) for the definition of fit and qualified. Examples of charges, actions or offenses the department will consider in making a determination under this paragraph that an act substantially relates to the care of children include but are not limited to: abuse or neglect of a child; sexual assault; abuse of a resident of a facility; a crime against life and bodily security; kidnapping; abduction; arson of a building or of property other than a building; robbery; receiving stolen property from a child; a crime against sexual morality, such as enticing a minor for immoral purposes or exposing a minor to harmful materials, interfering with the custody of a child; or civil or criminal actions demonstrating an inability to manage financial resources or activities of the camp. The list is illustrative. Other types of offenses may be considered.

(c) The department may not license a person if the department has received certification pursuant to s. 49.857 (2), Stats., from the department of workforce development that the applicant or licensee has failed to pay court-ordered payments of child or family support or expense related to the support of a child or former spouse or has failed to comply with a subpoena or warrant issued by the department of workforce development or a county child support agency related to paternity or child support proceedings. Notwithstanding s. 48.72, Stats., an action taken under this subsection is subject to review only as provided under s. 49.857, Stats., and not as provided in s. 48.72, Stats.

(d) The department may not license a person if the department has received certification pursuant to s. 73.0301, Stats., from the department of revenue certifying that the applicant or licensee has a delinquent tax liability. An action taken under this paragraph is subject to review only as provided under s. 73.0301 (5), Stats., and not as provided in s. 48.72, Stats.

(8) Effect of notice to revoke or deny a license

(a) 1. If the department decides under sub. (7) to deny a license or to revoke a license, the department shall notify the applicant or licensee in writing of its decision and the reasons for that decision.

2. If the department revokes a license, the effective date of the revocation shall be either immediately or 30 days after the date of the notice, based on the criteria under s. 48.715 (4m) (a) and (b), Stats., unless the decision is appealed under sub. (9).

(b) Upon receipt of the notice under par. (a) and during any revocation or denial procedures that may result, a day camp may not accept for care any child not enrolled and in care as of the date of receipt of the notice without the written approval of the department.

(9) Appeal of decision to deny or revoke a license

Any person aggrieved by the department’s decision to deny a probationary or regular license or to revoke a license may request a hearing on that decision under s. 227.42, Stats. The request for a hearing shall be in writing and submitted to the department of administration’s division of hearings and appeals. The request for a hearing shall be sent to the division of hearings and appeals within 10 days after the date of the notice under sub. (8).
Note: A request for hearing should be submitted by mail to the Division of Hearings and Appeals, P.O. Box 7875, Madison, Wisconsin 53707-7875, or should be delivered to the Division at 5005 University Ave., Room 201, Madison, Wisconsin. Hearing requests may be faxed to 608-264-9885. A copy of the request should be sent to the appropriate regional licensing office listed in Appendix A.

(10) General conditions for approval of a license

(a) Persons licensed to operate a day camp shall be responsible, mature individuals who are fit and qualified. In determining whether an applicant is fit and qualified, the department shall consider any history of civil or criminal violations or other offenses substantially related to care of children by the applicant, owner, manager, representative, employee, camp resident, or other individual directly or indirectly participating in the operation of the day camp. A determination of being unfit and unqualified includes substantiated findings of child abuse or neglect under ch. 48, Stats., or substantiated abuse under ch. 50, Stats., or under similar statutes in another state or territory whether or not it results in a criminal charge or conviction.

(b) The department shall issue a day camp license to an applicant within 60 working days after receipt and department approval of a properly completed application, satisfactory department investigation and determination that the applicant is fit and qualified. Continued licensure requires a licensee to remain fit and qualified.
Note: See DCF 252.04 (13m) for the definition of “fit and qualified.”

(c) A facility that provides care on a regular basis to 4 or more children under the age of 7 years shall be deemed to be providing care for compensation and shall be licensed.

(d) Prior to receiving a license, an applicant for a license under this chapter shall complete all application forms truthfully and accurately and pay all fees and forfeitures due to the department.

(e) The department may refuse to issue or continue a license if another program operated by the licensee is in substantial non-compliance with the licensing rules or has any outstanding fines or forfeitures.

(f) If the department has reason to believe that the physical or mental health of any person associated with the care of children at the camp or any household member of the camp might endanger children in care, the department may require that a written statement be submitted by a physician or, if appropriate, by a licensed mental health professional that shall certify the condition of the individual and the possible effect of that condition on the day camp or children in care.

(g) The department may deny or revoke the license if the examination specified under par. (f) gives the department reasonable concern for the care of children.

(h) The department may not process an application for a license if the applicant has had a license or certification to operate a day camp or child care center revoked or denied within the last 2 years. An applicant is deemed ineligible to submit an application for a license and a licensee may not hire an employee within 2 years from the date an applicant or employee had a child care or day camp license or certification revoked or denied.

(i) The department shall consider a licensee who fails to submit any of the materials described in sub. (1) (c) by the expiration or continuation date of a license to have surrendered his or her license and to no longer hold title to the license. The former licensee may not continue to operate the day camp.

DCF 252.06 Complaints, Inspections, and Enforcement Actions

(1) Complaints

Anyone having a complaint about a licensed or illegally operating day camp may submit that complaint to the department by telephone, letter, e-mail, fax or personal interview. Every complaint shall be investigated by a licensing representative. A written report of the findings of the investigation shall be sent to the complainant upon request.
Note: A complaint should be sent, phoned or delivered to the appropriate regional licensing office listed in Appendix A.

(2) Inspection

Pursuant to s. 48.73, Stats., the department may visit and inspect any day camp at any time during licensed hours. A department licensing representative shall have unrestricted access to the premises, whether temporary or permanent, which are identified in the license, children in care, staff and child records, and any other materials or individuals with information on the camp’s compliance with this chapter.

(3) Enforcement action

The department may order any sanction or impose any penalty on a licensee in accordance with s. 48.686, 48.715, or 48.76, Stats.

DCF 252.07 Non-discrimination, Confidentiality, and Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect

(1) Discrimination prohibited

(a) The licensee shall ensure that the day camp does not discriminate in employment against properly qualified individuals in a manner prohibited in ss. 111.31 to 111.395, Stats.

(b) The licensee shall ensure that the day camp does not discriminate against any enrolled child and family or any applicant for enrollment in admission, privilege of enrollment, or discharge condition on the basis of age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, creed, disability, national origin, or ancestry as provided in s. 106.52, Stats.

DCF 252.07(1)(b) Commentary: DISCRIMINATION: The DCF Equal Opportunity Office investigates all discrimination complaints that are submitted to DCF by its clients and customers that are based on practices prohibited by relevant state and federal civil rights laws. Contact the DCF Equal Opportunity Office at 608-422-6889 or the US Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights 1-800-368-1019 (voice) or 1-800-537-7697 (TDD) or see the ADA website to file a complaint.

(2) Confidentiality of records

DCF 252.07(2) Commentary: It is recommended that the camp have a policy regarding the use of photos and social or electronic media involving children enrolled at the day camp.

(a) The licensee is responsible for the day camp’s compliance with s. 48.78, Stats., and this subsection.

(b) Persons who have access to children’s records may not discuss or disclose personal or other information about a child or a child’s relatives. This paragraph does not apply to any of the following:

1. The child’s parent.

2. Any person, business, school, social services provider, medical provider, or other agency or organization if written parental consent has been given.

3. An agency authorized under s. 48.78, Stats., to have access to children’s records.

DCF 252.07(2)(b)3 Commentary: A licensed day camp facility may share confidential information regarding an individual in care to a public school, social welfare or law enforcement agency, or the Department of Children and Families. A social welfare agency is a county department of social or human services, an Indian tribal social services agency or agent, or a licensed child welfare agency under contract with the county department. A law enforcement agency is a sheriff or police department.

“Relative" is defined by s. 28.02(15), stats., as a parent, stepparent, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half brother, half sister, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, first cousin, 2nd cousin, nephew, niece, uncle, aunt, step-uncle, step-aunt, or any person of a preceding generation as denoted by the prefix of grand, great, or great-great, whether by blood, marriage, or legal adoption, or the spouse of any person named in this subsection, even if the marriage is terminated by death or divorce.

(c) If a parent requests a record or report on the parent’s child, the day camp shall make the record or report accessible to the parent.

252.07(2)(c) Commentary: Every parent has a right to their child’s school, medical, and dental records, and any video recordings of their child. The only exception to this rule is if a court specifically orders that a parent does not have access to the records. To prohibit or restrict access, the camp must have a copy of the court order on file at the camp

(d) All records required by the department for licensing purposes shall be made available to licensing representatives upon request.

(3) Reporting child abuse or neglect

(a) A licensee, counselor, employee, or volunteer at a day camp who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a child who is known or seen by the provider in the course of their professional or volunteer duties has been abused or neglected or who has reason to believe that the child has been threatened with abuse or neglect and that abuse or neglect of the child will occur shall immediately contact the county department of social services under s. 46.22, Stats.; the county department of human services under 46.23, Stats.; in a county having a population of 750,000 or more, the department; or local law enforcement agency in compliance with s. 48.981 (3) (a), Stats.

252.07(3)(a) Commentary

Licensees, employees, and volunteers are mandated reporters under the law.

A mandated reporter who witnesses or who has reasonable knowledge to suspect that a child has been abused or neglected is required to immediately contact the proper authority (county department of social or health and human services or law enforcement).
The witness or the person who has reasonable knowledge to suspect that a child has been abused or neglected should be the person to make the report.
When in doubt, report the suspected abuse or neglect.
Because child-to-child contact may be determined to be abuse, child-to-child sexual contact must be reported.

When in doubt, report the suspected abuse or neglect. Section 48.981 (6), Wis. Stats., states that if a mandated reporter fails to report suspected child abuse or neglect, you may be fined up to $1,000, imprisoned for up to 6 months, or both. In addition, a mandated reporter who fails to report suspected child abuse or neglect may receive a bar to owning and/or working in a licensed child care and future licensing applications may be denied.

A report to the licensing specialist does not meet this requirement.

(b) The licensee shall ensure that every employee or volunteer who comes in contact with the children at the day camp has received annual pre-camp training in all of the following:

252.07(3)(b) Commentary: The department will no longer accept a review of the brochure “It Shouldn’t Hurt to Be a Child” to meet this requirement.

The department’s online training, “Mandated Reporter Online Training,” may be used to meet this requirement. “Strengthening Families” or “Darkness to Light” (also known as Stewards of Children) training may also be used to meet this requirement.

Training may also be obtained from local child protective services, law enforcement, or other agencies that provide continuing education experiences. Documentation could be a certificate of attendance at a formal training or completing the Staff Continuing Education Record - Child Care Centers form. Training may be counted as continuing education.

The department-approved, entry-level course called Introduction to the Child Care Profession contains training in the identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect and may be used to meet the requirement for 2 years after the completion date of the course. See DCF 252.42 (3) (a) 10. – PRE-CAMP TRAINING – CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT LAWS, REPORTING. This rule requires that a review of child abuse and neglect laws and day camp reporting procedures be included in pre-camp training.

1. Child abuse and neglect laws;

2. Identification of children who have been abused or neglected; and

3. The process for ensuring that known or suspected cases of child abuse or neglect are immediately reported to the proper authorities.
Note: Failure of the licensee to report known or suspected incidents of child abuse or neglect does not lessen the legal duty of the child care worker to report known or suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.

DCF 252.08 Pets and Other Animals

(1) Pets that are kept on the premises of a day camp shall be maintained in good health and appropriately vaccinated against rabies. Rabies vaccinations shall be documented with a current certificate from a veterinarian.

252.08 (1) Commentary: Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies as documented by a current vaccination certificate. Other immunizations frequently given to dogs and cats are to prevent disease that is not communicable to children. Initial rabies immunization for dogs should be administered by five months of age and within one year after the initial immunization. Initial rabies immunization for cats should be administered at 8 – 12 weeks of age and within one year after initial immunization. Initial rabies immunization for ferrets should be administered at 12 weeks of age. Subsequent immunizations are to be administered at intervals stated on the certificate of vaccination. If no date is specified, a dog shall be vaccinated within three years of the previous vaccination, as specified in s. 95.21 (2), Wis. Stats. Wisconsin law does not allow persons to vaccinate their own animals for rabies.

(2) A pet that is suspected of being ill, or infested with external lice, fleas, ticks, or internal worms shall be inaccessible to children.

(3) In the event that an animal bites a child, the parent shall be notified and a veterinarian shall be contacted by center personnel to determine a course of action in the diagnosis of possible rabies in the animal. Procedures for emergency care of children shall be followed. Parents shall be notified of any action taken by the veterinarian.

252.08 (3) Commentary: See DCF 252.41 (2) (a) – REPORT – INCIDENT OR ACCIDENT and DCF 252.41 (2) (ar) – REPORT – ANIMAL INJURY.

(4) Turtles, skunks, exotic animals, wild animals and poisonous reptiles may not be kept as pets on the premises of the day camp.

(5) Animal pens shall be kept clean.

(6) All contact between pets or animals and children shall be under the supervision of a camp counselor who is close enough to remove the child immediately if the pet or animal shows signs of distress or the child shows signs of treating the pet or animal inappropriately. Pets shall be kept and handled in a manner which protects the well-being of both children and pets.

252.08 (6) Commentary: Examples of aggressive behaviors include showing teeth, growling, hissing, excessive barking, hair standing up on the animal’s back, or tail between their legs.

See DCF 252.44 (6) (i) 1. – PERSONAL CLEANLINESS – CHILD HANDWASHING. Whenever children handle a pet or another animal, they shall wash their hands afterwards with soap and water. If soap and water is not available, the children may use soap and water-based wet wipes or hand sanitizer to clean hands until soap and water is available.

Petting zoos are permitted; however, it is recommended that the camp’s policy indicates what animals/pets are maintained at the camp and that parents are notified in advance of the animal’s presence and which types of animals / pets children will be able to have direct contact with. Example: The children may touch a horse, but not a llama.

(7) Pets in rooms used by children shall be confined in cages while food is being prepared or served. Pets, cages and litter boxes are prohibited in kitchens, lunch rooms and other food storage areas. Pet and animal feeding dishes and litter boxes may not be placed in areas accessible to children.

(8) No horses or other livestock may be permanently quartered closer than 500 feet from any building in which the day camp is located.

(9) Pets that pose any risk to the children shall be restricted from the areas used by children.

252.08 (9) Commentary: Examples of aggressive behaviors include showing teeth, growling, hissing, excessive barking, hair standing up on the animal’s back, or tail between their legs.

(10) Procedures to be followed when children have contact with animals, other than pets, while in the care of the camp shall be included in the camp’s health policy.

252.08 (10) Commentary

It is recommended that the following items be included in the health policy:

How supervision will be maintained when children interact with animals.
Whether children will touch or handle animals.
How an injury caused by an animal, such as a bite, will be handled.
How sanitation will be maintained, including handwashing when handling animals.

Only dogs are recognized as service animals under titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act. A service animal is defined as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. To learn more, see the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division website.

All service animals must be registered as a service animal and hold a valid certificate.

Note: Service animals used by a person with a disability to assist that person are not considered pets under this rule while they are working as a service animal.

DCF 252.09 Transportation

(1) Applicability

(a) Except as provided in par. (b), this section applies to all transportation of children in care, including both regularly scheduled transportation to and from the camp and field trip transportation, if any of the following apply:

252.09(1)(a) Commentary: If a camp contracts (either verbally or in writing) with a bus company or other agency and the driver and vehicle are regulated under ch. Trans 300 Transportation of School Children, the driver and vehicle do not need to meet the requirements under subsections (4) DRIVER and (5) VEHICLE.

Subsection (8) (a) below will be monitored annually for compliance. A written contact between the center and the transportation company is recommended. The licensee is responsible for ensuring that all applicable rules are met.

This rule does not apply when a center contracts for regularly scheduled transportation to and from the local school district school with the local school district bus company. The Alternate Arrival / Release Agreement form may be used to obtain authorization from the parent to have the local school bus company provide the transportation.

See Appendix D Resources List, Instructions for Obtaining Forms – Day Camps for Children.
Transportation provided by rideshare companies, such as Uber or Lyft, is contracted transportation and therefore is considered to be camp-provided transportation.

See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

See DCF 252.41 (4) (c) – CURRENT, ACCURATE DAILY ATTENDANCE RECORD.

1. The licensee owns or leases the vehicle used.

2. The licensee contracts with another individual or organization that owns or leases the vehicle used.

3. Employees, parents, or volunteers are transporting children at the direction, request, or on behalf of the licensee.

(b) The following requirements do not apply to transportation provided in vehicles owned and driven by parents or volunteers who are not counted in the counselor-to-child ratios in Table DCF 252.425:

1. The requirement that a licensee obtain a copy of the driver’s driving record under sub. (4) (c).

2. The requirement to provide evidence that the vehicle is in safe operating condition at 12-month intervals under sub. (5) (b).

3. The requirements related to child care vehicle safety alarms under sub. (8).

(c) The licensee shall document in their policies that transportation provided through a written or verbal contract with another individual or organization meets the requirements of this section.

(2) Permission and emergency information

Before transporting a child, a licensee shall obtain signed Transportation Permission from the parent for transportation and emergency information for each child. The form shall include the following information:

(a) The purpose of the transportation and the parent or guardian’s permission to transport the child for that purpose.

(b) An address and telephone number where a parent or other adult can be reached in an emergency.

(d) Written consent from the child’s parent or guardian for emergency medical treatment.

252.09(2)(d) Commentary: A copy of the child’s current enrollment form will also contain the information required under this rule.

Note: The licensee may use the department’s form, Child Care Enrollment, to obtain consent of the child’s parent for emergency medical treatment. Information on how to obtain forms is available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

(3) Required information for each trip

The licensee shall ensure that written documentation of all of the following is maintained at the camp and in any vehicle transporting children while the children are being transported:

(a) A list of the children being transported.

(b) A copy of the completed permission and emergency information form under sub. (2) for each child being transported.

(4) Driver

(a) The driver of a vehicle used to transport children in care shall be at least 18 years of age and shall hold a valid driver’s license for the state where the driver resides and for the type of vehicle driven.

252.09(4)(a) Commentary: This is in conformity with Wisconsin Statutes 121.555, which prohibits anyone under 18 years old from driving children. No exceptions will be granted.

A person may have a driver’s license card that has not expired but still have the license suspended or revoked. The only way to ensure that a driver’s license has not been suspended or revoked (and is still valid) is through a check of the person’s driving record maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, or by the Department of Transportation for the person’s state of residence.

See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

(b) Before a driver who is not the licensee first transports children the licensee shall provide the driver with a training. The licensee shall review, document and update the training as necessary with each driver annually. The training shall include all of the following:

252.09(4)(b) Commentary: The department’s form Driver Training Checklist – Child Care Centers may be used for documenting training.

1. The procedure for ensuring that all children are properly restrained in the appropriate child safety seat.

2. The procedure for loading, unloading, and tracking of children being transported.

3. The procedure for evacuating the children from a vehicle in an emergency.

4. Behavior management techniques for use with children being transported.

5. A review of this section and the applicable statutes under s. 347.48, Stats.

6. A review of applicable camp policies.

7. First aid procedures.

8. A review of child abuse and neglect laws and center reporting procedures.

9. Information on any special needs a child being transported may have and the plan for how those needs will be met.

10. A review of the use of the vehicle alarm, if applicable.

11. Any other job responsibilities as determined by the licensee.

(c) 1. Prior to the day a driver first transports children in care and annually thereafter, the licensee shall obtain a copy of the driving record for each driver and place the record in the staff file. The licensee shall review each driving record to ensure that the driver has no accidents or traffic violations that would indicate that having children ride with the driver could pose a threat to the children.

2. In determining whether a driver may pose a threat to the children, the licensee shall consider the totality of the driver’s record, any other relevant facts, and all of the following factors in combination:

a. The seriousness of any accidents or violations.

b. How much time has passed since an accident or violation occurred.

c. The number of accidents or violations.

d. The likelihood that a similar incident will occur.

3. A driver whose driving record indicates that the driver poses a threat to the children may not transport children.
Note: Information on how to obtain driving records may be obtained by contacting the department of transportation at 608-261-2566 or Department of Transportation.

(d) 1. Except as provided in subd. 2., a driver of a vehicle that is transporting children in care may not use a cellular phone or other wireless telecommunication device while loading, unloading, or transporting children except when the vehicle is out of traffic, not in operation, and any of the following applies:

a. The phone or device is used to call 911.

b. The phone or device is used to communicate with emergency responders.

c. The phone or device is used to communicate with the camp regarding an emergency situation.

2. A navigation device may be used during transportation of children if the device is programmed to a destination when the vehicle is out of traffic and not in operation.

(5) Vehicle

(a) The licensee shall ensure that each vehicle that is used to transport children is all of the following:

1. Registered with the Wisconsin department of transportation or the appropriate authority in another state.

2. Clean, uncluttered, and free of obstruction on the floors, aisles, and seats.

3. In safe operating condition.

(b) At 12-month intervals, the licensee shall provide the department with evidence of a vehicle’s safe operating condition on a form provided by the department.
Note: The department’s form, Vehicle Safety Inspection, is used to record evidence of the vehicle’s safe operating condition. Forms are available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

252.09(5)(b) Commentary: The Vehicle Safety Inspection form is to be signed by the owner/employee of a bona fide repair business such as garage, auto repair shop or service station. Name of repair business should appear on vehicle inspection form in addition to signature. Signatures of persons not associated with a firm doing repair business with the public will not be acceptable. If inspection report indicates needed repairs, vehicle must be repaired, and inspection form must note the indicated repair or replacement has been completed. See Appendix D Resources List for information on obtaining forms.

New and used vehicles purchased from an authorized dealer with inspection report will be accepted for one year.

The State Patrol conducts safety inspections of school buses and a sticker issued by the inspector will be accepted in place of the Vehicle Safety Inspection form.

If a vehicle used to transport children has been involved in an accident, the department may request evidence that the vehicle is in safe operating condition.

See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

(c) At least once per year, the licensee shall make available to the department each vehicle that is required to have a child safety alarm under sub. (8) (a) to determine whether the child safety alarm is in good working order.

(d) Hired or contracted school buses used to transport children shall be in compliance with ch. Trans 300.

(6) Seat belts and child safety restraints

(a) No person may transport a child under 8 years of age in a motor vehicle, unless the child is restrained in a child safety restraint system that is appropriate to the child's age and size and in accordance with s. 347.48 Stats., and ch. Trans 310.

252.09(6)(a) Commentary

Most child safety seats have an expiration date embossed in plastic on the bottom of the seat. Child safety seats may not be used past their expiration date.

An integrated child safety seat may be used by children who meet the age, height, and/or weight requirements identified by the manufacturer of the vehicle.

LIST OF RESTRAINTS: A list of currently approved child safety restraints and recalls may be obtained from the Wisconsin Information Network for Safety.

All child safety restraints sold in the USA are required to comply with the dynamic testing requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) #213, Child Restraint Systems. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has developed an ease of use rating system of child safety restraints to help provide information about which child safety seat may be most appropriate for a child. More information on child safety restraints can be found on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. Most child safety seats have an expiration date embossed in plastic on the bottom of the seat. Seats may not be used past their expiration date.

Information on Recalled Car Safety Seats can be found at The Department of Transportation.

An integrated car safety seat may be used by children who meet the age, height and/or weight requirements identified by the manufacturer of the vehicle.

Information on the Wisconsin Child Passenger Safety Law can be found on the Department of Transportation website.

See Appendix D Resources List, Car Safety Seat Information

Note: For further information on child safety restraints, see Child safety seats.

(b) 1. Each child who is not required to be in an individual child car safety seat or booster seat when being transported under par. (a) shall be properly restrained by a seat belt in accordance with 347.48, Stats., and ch. Trans 315.

2. Each adult in the vehicle shall be properly restrained by a seat belt in accordance with 347.48, Stats., and ch. Trans 315.

3. Seat belts may not be shared.

(c) Children transported in school buses or vehicles built to school bus standards shall be properly seated according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

252.09(6)(c) Commentary: If a center owns, leases, or contracts for a school bus, seat belts or car safety seats are not required because these vehicles were constructed to carry children without such devices.

For additional information, contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.

(d) Children under 13 years of age who are in the care of the camp may not ride in the front seat of a vehicle.

(7) Vehicle capacity and supervision

(a) The camp shall be responsible for a child from the time the child is placed in a vehicle until the child reaches his or her destination and is released to a person responsible for the child. A parent of a school age child may authorize a child to enter a building unescorted.

252.09(7)(a) Commentary: Children are considered in care as soon as they are picked up by center-provided transportation.
See DCF 252.41 (4) (c) – CURRENT, ACCURATE DAILY ATTENDANCE RECORD. If the camp picks up the children from his / her home or a designated pick-up or drop-off point, the daily attendance record must indicate at the actual time the child was picked up or/and dropped off.

See DCF 252.41 (1) (f) 4. – POLICY SUBMITTED & IMPLEMENTED – ADMISSION. If the camp provides transportation services from home to camp, procedure should address how the camp is to be notified that a child is not attending that day (i.e. sign in the window of the home that child is not attending, prior notification to the center that child not attending, a second adult on the vehicle walks to the door to pick up the child, told at the door that child is not attending, etc.). If the center is not notified that a child will not attend, the parent must be notified if the child does not arrive at the camp as expected.

Note: The form, Transportation Permission - Child Care Centers, may be used to designate an adult to receive a child being transported. Forms are available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

(b) Children may not be left unattended in a vehicle.

(c) When children are transported in a vehicle, there shall be at least one adult supervisor in addition to the driver whenever there are more than 3 children who have a disability that limits their ability to respond to an emergency.

252.09(7)(c) Commentary: When evaluating the need to have an adult supervisor (in addition to the driver) present in the vehicle, the center needs to consider the ability of the child with a disability to evacuate the vehicle with limited additional help from the driver, the number and ages of other children being transported, and whether any children being transported have a behavioral history that might be disruptive during transportation.

(d) The licensee shall develop and implement a procedure to ensure that all children exit the vehicle after being transported to a destination.

(e) No child may be in a vehicle for transport to or from the camp, a field trip, or other camp activity for more than 60 minutes each direction.

(8) Child care vehicle safety alarm

252.09(8) Commentary: This section also applies to hired or contracted school buses. The alarm must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications

(a) A vehicle shall be equipped with a child safety alarm that prompts the driver to inspect the vehicle for children before exiting if all of the following conditions apply:

1. The vehicle is owned or leased by a licensee or a contractor of a licensee.

2. The vehicle has a seating capacity of 6 or more passengers plus the driver. The seating capacity of the vehicle shall be determined by the manufacturer.

3. The vehicle is used to transport children in care.

(b) No person may shut off a child safety alarm unless the driver first inspects the vehicle to ensure that no child is left unattended in the vehicle.

(c) The child safety alarm shall be in good working order each time the vehicle is used for transporting children to or from a center.
Note: Information on the required vehicle safety alarm is available in the Child Care Regulation Information for Providers section at Wisconsin Department of Children and Families on the department's website.

DCF 252.41 Operational Requirements for Day Camps

(1) Administration

The licensee shall do all of the following:

(a) Comply with all laws governing the camp and its operation.

252.41(1)(a) Commentary: WISCONSIN SHARES COMPLIANCE: This rule requires centers to comply with the subsidy requirements found in Ch. 49, Wis. Stats., and DCF 201.

DISCRIMINATION: The DCF Equal Opportunity Office investigates all discrimination complaints that are submitted to DCF by its clients and customers that are based on practices prohibited by relevant state and federal civil rights laws. Contact the DCF Equal Opportunity Office at 608-422-6889 or the US Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights 800-368-1019 (voice) or 1-800-537-7697 (TDD) or see the ADA website.

(b) Comply with all requirements in this chapter.

(bm) Ensure that all information provided to the department is current and accurate.

(br) Comply with all conditions placed on the license.

(c) Designate, in writing, as part of the application under s. DCF 252.05 (1), a Wisconsin resident who is responsible on behalf of the licensee for ensuring compliance with all requirements in this chapter, if the licensee resides in another state.

252.41(1)(c) Commentary: LICENSING PROCEDURES. In circumstances where the Governor’s Council on Migrant Labor operates licensed programs in Wisconsin on a seasonal basis, the person representing the Governor’s Council on Migrant Labor may be considered to be a Wisconsin resident during the period of time that program operates in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin residence address must be provided.

(d) Meet, upon request, with the licensing representative on matters pertaining to licensing.

(e) Provide documentation of insurance coverage by the submission of a certificate of insurance reflecting current dates of coverage for:

252.41(1)(e) Commentary: A licensee must submit proof of insurance coverage to the department prior to a license being issued. An insurance binder has the same intent as a certificate of insurance but may be issued by the insurance company prior to initial licensing and be accepted until the certificate is issued.

An ACORD certificate of insurance is a document summarizing key information about your business insurance policy. The document can be used to prove that the business has general liability insurance coverage and is typically provided by your insurance company. You can request a certificate of general liability insurance from your insurance company.

The department may be listed as a certificate holder so automatic notice will be sent to the department if coverage is canceled by the insurance firm or subsequent coverage is not obtained through failure of the licensee to pay the premiums. If required insurance coverage is not maintained, a non-compliance statement will be issued.

Day camps operated by the University of Wisconsin system are not required to submit certificates of insurance to the department since coverage is provided by statute for programs, employees, and agents.

1. General liability insurance which provides coverage with limits of not less than $25,000 for each person and total limits of $75,000 for each occurrence.

2. Vehicle liability insurance, when transportation is provided, with minimums no less than those specified in s. 121.53, Stats.

252.41(1)(e)2 Commentary: See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

3. Vehicle liability insurance for non-owed vehicles with minimums not less than the amounts specified under s. 121.53, Stats., if transportation is provided in vehicles that are not owned by the camp and are not public transportation vehicles or chartered vehicles.

252.41(1)(e)3 Commentary

Examples of non-owned vehicle transportation are:

Children transported in personal vehicle of employee for field trip, portal-to-portal, or for emergencies.
Children transported in personal vehicles of parents or other persons for field trips.
Children transported in vehicles donated by other agencies, but not owned by the center, such as churches, community groups, or the Red Cross.
Children transported in rideshare vehicles, such as Uber or Lyft.

The Commissioner of Insurance has recommended that camps carry a non-owned vehicle liability policy/rider even when the camp only uses public transportation for field trips or portal-to-portal transportation.

Non-owned insurance coverage may be obtained as a rider to vehicle insurance coverage or may be obtained as an extension to general liability coverage without vehicle insurance coverage but must specifically appear on the certificate as such. A common practice of insurance carriers is to issue a multi-peril policy covering general liability, property, and non-owned vehicle coverage.
A written contract between a private transportation or bus company is recommended.

4. Specific adventure-based activities identified in s. DCF 252.44 (13) when offered as part of the camp program.

(f) Develop, submit to the department, and implement written policies and procedures consistent with this chapter on all of the following subjects:

252.41(1)(f) Commentary: The Policy Checklist – Day Camps is available to assist in writing policies and contains items that are both required and recommended to be included in camp policies. The policy checklist is available on the department’s website https://dcf.wisconsin.gov.

Camps should periodically review their existing policies and procedures to determine whether they conflict with the licensing rules or to determine whether any changes are required to reflect current procedure. Any conflicts must be resolved.

Copies of policy changes must be submitted to the department at the time the policy is changed. Licensees are reminded at continuation that if they have not previously submitted policy changes, they should do so with the continuation materials. The Policy Checklist – Day Camps must be sent to the department at the time the policies are submitted.

It is recommended that policy revisions be dated.
Parent contracts are recommended but not required. If contracts are used, submit a copy with the written policies and procedures.

1. Discharge of enrolled children.

252.41(1)(f)1 Commentary: DISCRIMINATION: The DCF Equal Opportunity Office investigates all discrimination complaints that are submitted to DCF by its clients and customers that are based on practices prohibited by relevant state and federal civil rights laws. Contact the DCF Equal Opportunity Office at 608-422-6889 or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights 1-800-368-1019 (voice) or 1-800-537-7697 (TDD) or see the ADA website to file a complaint.

2. Fee payments and refunds.

252.41(1)(f)2 Commentary: It is recommended that centers utilize a contract that includes the requirements for payment of fees.

Per DCF 201.038 (5) (a), a provider must have a written payment agreement with each parent that receives Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy.

3. Personnel policies including job descriptions, hours of work, lunch and break times, holidays, vacations, sick leaves, leaves of absence, probationary periods, performance evaluations, grievance procedures and the disciplinary process. The personnel policy shall also contain a procedure requiring staff to notify the licensee and the licensee to notify the department as soon as possible but no later than the next working day when any of the following occurs:

a. The employee has been convicted of a crime.

b. The employee has been or is being investigated by any governmental agency for any other act, offense, or omission, including an investigation related to the abuse or neglect or threat of abuse or neglect, to a child or other client, or an investigation related to misappropriation of a client’s property.

c. The employee has a governmental finding substantiated against them of abuse or neglect of a child or adult or of misappropriation of a client’s property.

d. When a professional license held by a provider has been denied, revoked, restricted or otherwise limited.

4. Admission, including a procedure to contact a parent if a child is absent from the camp without prior notification from the parent.

5. Program objectives and a description of activities designed to carry out the program objectives.

6. Transportation, if children may be transported to and from the camp or for field trips. The policy shall include a procedure to ensure that no child has been left unattended in a vehicle.

252.41(1)(f)6 Commentary

Commentary: Pursuant to DCF 252.09, at a minimum, the transportation policy must include the following:

Procedure for inspecting vehicle for safety and for ensuring that any required vehicle safety alarm is in operating condition.
Procedure for loading, unloading and tracking children being transported.
Procedure for ensuring the child is released to a responsible adult.
Procedure for tracking children during an emergency.
Behavior management techniques for use with children being transported.
Procedure on the use of a cellular phone or other wireless communication device by the driver.
Procedure for sharing information with the driver on any special needs that a child being transported may have and the plan for how those needs are to be met.

7. Plans to be followed in the event of a fire, tornado, missing child, or other emergency. If an open-sided shelter is used as a base camp, the plan shall identify the location of a designated tornado shelter and the procedure to ensure the camp receives information about tornado watches or warnings. The plan shall include a procedure to ensure that children reach the tornado shelter in a timely fashion.

252.41(1)(f)7 Commentary

See DCF 252.04(12) – DEFINITION – EMERGENCY. For more information on emergency plans, see:

Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, Division of Emergency Management .
Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care webpage.
Child Care Information Center or 1-800-362-7353

8. The plan for supervising children during water activities and waterfront activities, including emergency procedures to be carried out if a child participating in water activities cannot be found.

9. The plan for providing pre-camp training to staff.

10. Child guidance, including ways to manage crying, fussing, or distraught children.

11. Health, including procedures to be followed when there is contact with animals.

252.41(1)(f)11 Commentary: Whenever children handle a pet or animal, they shall wash their hands afterwards with soap and water. If soap and running water is not immediately available, soap and water-based wet wipes or hand sanitizer may be used until running water is available.

See DCF 252.44 (6) (e) 5. – AUTHORIZATION FOR CHILD TO CARRY MEDICATION; DCF 252.44 (6) (g) 2. – MEDICAL LOG – REQUIREMENTS; DCF 252.44 (6) (i) 7. – SUNSCREEN, INSECT REPELLENT AUTHORIZATION; and DCF 252.44 (6) (g) 3. b. MEDICAL LOG – INJURIES IN CARE.

12. Nutrition.

13. Continuing education for staff.

(i) Ensure that all published statements such as brochures and publicity are accurate.

(k) Post the day camp license at the base camp in an area visible to parents and the public.

(L)1. Post next to the day camp license all of the following:

a. The current licensing statement of compliance or a noncompliance statement and correction plan, including rule violations the department has not verified as corrected and in compliance.

b. Any notice from the department regarding rule violations, such as a warning letter or enforcement action.

c. Any stipulations, conditions, temporary closures, exceptions, or exemptions that affect the license.

2. All items posted as required under this paragraph shall be visible to parents.

(m) Ensure that any action, by commission or omission, or any condition or occurrence relating to the operation or maintenance of the day camp does not adversely affect the health, safety or welfare of any child under the care of the licensee.

(n) Submit to the department by the department’s next business day a completed background check request form for any of the following:

252.41(1)(n) Commentary: The Background Check Request (BCR) form, DCF-F-5296, is required for individuals age 10 and older. Licensees submit a BCR for themselves to their regional office. Licensees submit BCRs for others through the Child Care Provider Portal (CCPP).

Per s. 48.686 (2) (ab), Wis. Stats., each child care program shall submit a request to the department for a background check prior to the date on which the individual becomes a caregiver, non-caregiver employee, or household member.

Per s. 48.686 (4m) (c) individuals may not begin working or residing at the child care center until they receive preliminary eligibility. New employees or new household members may begin working or residing at a licensed day camp with preliminary eligibility results but must be under supervision of someone with final eligibility until the new employee or household member receives final eligibility.

Licensees are reminded to remove an individual from their facility’s profile in the CCPP when the individual no longer resides at the center. Failure to do so may result in continued background checks being conducted on the individual.
In the event of a name change, individuals should submit a new BCR including any alias used in the past.

1. There is a change in the board president or chairperson.

252.41(1)(n)1 Commentary: Licensees must submit a Background Check Request (BCR) form to their regional office when there is a change in board president. Licensees submit a BCR for all other employees through the Child Care Provider Portal (CCPP).

2. A corporation or limited liability company designates a new person to be subject to the child care background check.

3. A household member turns 18 years of age, unless the household member has previously submitted a background check request form.

4. A household member turns 10 years of age.

252.41(1)(n)4 Commentary: Individuals who reside on the day camp premises are household members and a DCF background check is required.

(o) Submit to the department a completed background check request form for each potential household member prior to the date on which the individual becomes a household member, unless the person is less than 10 years of age.

(p) Submit a current delegation of administrative authority signed by the licensee that describes the organizational structure of the camp. The delegation of administrative authority shall identify by position or name those persons that will be on the premises and in charge of the camp for all hours of operation.

(2) Reports

The licensee shall report all of the following to the department via fax, email, or letter or via telephone with a follow-up written report to the appropriate regional licensing office within 5 business days:

(a) Any accident or incident that occurs while the child is in the care of the camp that results in professional medical evaluation, within 24 hours of the licensee becoming aware of the medical evaluation.

252.41(2)(a) Commentary: The Incident Report Form – Regulated Child Care is the preferred format for the report; however, other forms will be accepted as alternatives. It is recommended that a center include information on the details of what happened to cause the injury when making the written report. Examples of details that should be included in this report are date and time, a detailed description of what caused the injury, any witnesses, and what action was taken by the provider at the time of the incident or accident.

Note: The licensee may use either the department’s form, Incident Report – Regulated Child Care, or the licensee’s own form to report accidents. Information on how to obtain forms is available at Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or any regional licensing office in Appendix A.

(am) Any death of a child in care, within 24 hours after the death.

(ar) Any injury caused by an animal to a child in care, within 24 hours after the incident.

252.41(2)(ar) Commentary: If any animal bites a child, the parent shall be notified and procedures for treatment of an injury shall be followed. It is recommended a veterinarian be contacted by center personnel to determine a course of action in the diagnosis of possible rabies in the animal. It is also recommended parents be notified of any action taken by the veterinarian, as well as the name, address, and telephone number of the veterinarian who was consulted.

(b) Any damage to the base camp that may affect compliance with this chapter, or any incident at the base camp that results in the loss of utility services, within 24 hours after the occurrence.

252.41(2)(b) Commentary: Damage to any day camp space on the premises that might affect the use of day camp space must be reported. Examples of such damage includes storm damage, flooding, and power outages.

(d) A change of the day camp director, within 7 days after the change.

(e) Statistical data required by the department on forms provided by the department.

252.41(2)(e) Commentary: Other state agencies, such as the Department of Health Services, may also occasionally request statistical data.

(f) Any known convictions, pending charges or other offenses of the licensee, day camp employees or other persons subject to a child care background check which could potentially relate to the care of children at the camp or the activities of the camp by the department’s next business day.

(g) Any suspected abuse or neglect of a child by a staff member that was reported under s. DCF 252.07 (3) (a), including any incident that results in a child being forcefully shaken or thrown against a surface, hard or soft, by a staff member during the child’s hours of attendance, within 24 hours after the occurrence.

(gm) Any prohibited actions specified in s. DCF 252.44 (2) (c) by a staff member to a child during the child’s hours of attendance, within 24 hours after the incident.

(h) Any incident involving law enforcement within 24 hours after the occurrence in which any of the following occurs:

1. A licensee, a household member or an employee of the camp is involved in an incident that causes, or threatens to cause, physical or serious emotional harm to an individual, including a child in the care of the camp.

2. A person responsible for transporting children is involved in a traffic-related incident.

(i) Any change in room usage in the base camp, such as using rooms or areas not previously approved for use by children at least 20 working days prior to the change. Changes in room usage shall be approved by the department prior to the change.

(j) Any incident related to a child who leaves the premises of the camp without the knowledge of a counselor or any incident which results in a counselor not knowing the whereabouts of a child in attendance at the camp within 24 hours after the occurrence.

(k) If requested by the department, a plan of correction for cited violations of this chapter or ch. 48., Stats., in a format specified by the department. The department shall receive the plan of correction by the date the department specifies and the plan shall be approved by the department licensing representative.
Note: The licensing representative will notify the licensee if a plan of correction is required and provide the plan of correction format with the notification.

(L) Any construction or remodeling on the premises that has the potential to affect an area accessible to children or a condition of the license. Notification shall be in writing before the construction or remodeling begins.

252.41(2)(L) Commentary: Remodeling that involves a kitchen or remodeling that includes any mechanical modification may require a plan review by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) plan reviewers. DSPS’ website contains more information regarding plan review.

The addition or removal of playground structures is considered remodeling or construction that must be reported.

Note: It is recommended that the licensee check with the local municipality to determine whether a building permit is required before beginning any construction or remodeling.
Note: Alterations, additions, or changes of use to commercial buildings may require submittal of plans to and approval by the department of Safety and Professional Services or its agent before commencing construction. It is recommended that an architect or engineer be consulted prior to the beginning of any construction or remodeling to determine whether plans must be submitted.

(m) Any confirmed case of a communicable disease reportable under ch. DHS 145 in a child enrolled at the day camp or any person in contact with children at the camp, within 24 hours after the camp is notified of the diagnosis. The licensee shall also notify the local health department within 24 hours after the camp is notified of the diagnosis.

252.41(2)(m) Commentary: See DCF 252.41 (5) (b) – PARENT NOTIFICATION – COMMUNICABLE DISEASE and DCF 252.44 (6) (d) – COMMUNICABLE DISEASE. See Appendix D Resources List, Communicable Disease Chart, which identifies the diseases that must be reported to the local health department. The Department of Health Services’ website also contains the current list of reportable diseases.

COVID-19 is considered a communicable disease. If there is a case of COVID-19 in the center associated with a hospitalization or pediatric death,, providers must follow all reporting requirements.

Names of children with communicable diseases may not be shared with other families. There are penalties for disclosure of HIV antibody test results without consent. See s. 146.025, Wis. Stats. A person’s HIV status is confidential and may not be shared with others.

The camp must work with the health department to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect the children in care.

(n) Any change in meal preparation arrangements, at least 5 calendar days prior to the change. Camps adding meal preparation after an initial license has been issued shall document compliance with building codes related to kitchens before beginning to prepare meals.

252.41(2)(n) Commentary: See DCF 252.43 (3M) (H) – MEAL PREPARATION – LOCATION / TRANSPORTATION REQUIREMENTS.

(o) Any change in transportation services, at least 5 calendar days prior to the change.

252.41(2)(o) Commentary: This also includes providing or contracting transportation services for field trips.

(p) Expected temporary closures lasting more than 2 weeks, at least 5 calendar days before the closure.

(q) Unexpected closures lasting more than 2 weeks, within 24 hours after the camp has been closed for a 2-week period.

(r) Any change in swimming or water activities, boating, firearms and archery, horseback riding, or adventure-based activities, at least 20 working days prior to the change.

(4) Children’s records files

(a) The licensee shall create and maintain at the camp a current written record for each child before the child’s first day of attendance or subsequent re-enrollment. The licensee shall make the record available to the licensing representative. Each child’s file shall include all of the following:

252.41(4)(a) Commentary: See Appendix D Resources List, Instructions for Obtaining Forms – Day Camps for Children. Forms are also available from the DCF website. In some instances, the rule allows camps to develop and use their own forms. If a camp chooses to develop its own forms, all the information specified in the rule is required to be collected.

Licensees wishing to maintain electronic files on children should ensure all of the following: the files must be available for review by the licensing specialist during a licensing visit; electronic files must contain all the required information including the appropriate department-required forms; emergency contact information and any pertinent health information is immediately available to all staff without having to access electronic information.

Administrative rules do not relate to the office management or record-keeping practices of a camp. Required records must be maintained for the length of time the child is enrolled, be on the premises for children in care, and be available to the licensing specialist for review.

It is recommended that the date of discharge be added to the child’s record and that the camp retain records for 3 years after a child is discharged.

See Wis. Stat. s. 49.155 (6m); Wisconsin child care subsidy rules require child care providers retain the written daily attendance records for at least 3 years after the child’s last day of attendance.

A file is required when a child is considered a “junior counselor” or “counselor-in-training” and the parents are paying for the child to attend.

1. Enrollment information consisting of all of the following:

a. The name and birthdate of the child.

b. Names and contact information for the child’s parents.

252.41(4)(a)1.b. Commentary: Enrollment information should include both parents, if applicable. When access is prohibited or restricted by court order, permission to call for the child is also affected. To prohibit or restrict access, the center must have a copy of the court order on file at the center.

c. The child’s home address and telephone number.

d. Address and telephone number where a parent can be reached while the child is in care.

e. Name, address, telephone number and relationship to the child of the person to be notified in an emergency, when a parent cannot be reach immediately.

f. Names, address and telephone number of the physician or medical facility caring for the child.

g. Names, addresses and telephone numbers of persons authorized to pick-up the child or to accept the child who is dropped off.

252.41(4)(a)1.g. Commentary: If no one is authorized to pick up a child, a notation of “none” should be indicated.
A center may not stop a non-custodial parent from picking up a child. If parental access is denied, a current copy of the court order must be on file at the center.

h. Dates of camp session in which the child is enrolled.

2. Consent from the parent for emergency medical care or treatment;
Note: The licensee may use either the department’s form, Child Care Enrollment, or the licensee’s own form to obtain consent of the child’s parent for emergency medical treatment. Information on how to obtain forms is available at Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or any regional licensing office in Appendix A.

4. Authorization from the parent for the child to participate in field trips and other off-premises activities, if these are part of the camp program.
Note: The licensee may use either the department’s forms Field Trip or Other Activity Permission / Notification — Child Care Centers and Child Care Enrollment or the licensee’s own form for securing parental information. Forms are available at Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website.

252.41(4)(a)4 Commentary: The options for meeting this rule are:

1. The Field Trip or Other Activity Permission / Notification – Child Care Centers form or a similar center-created form that will be used for each child on each field trip.

OR

2. A blanket permission form signed by parents that covers all field trips involving use of a vehicle’ and notification to parents of the date, time, and destination of the field trip for each child prior to each trip.

Emergency information should be carried for the children during walking field trips.

5. Specific written informed consent from the parent for each incident of participation by a child in any research or testing project. The day camp shall obtain and make available to the department and to the parent a statement indicating the sponsor, the subject matter, the specific purpose and the proposed use of results with respect to each project.
Note: The licensee may use either the department’s form, Informed Consent for Observation or Testing by an Outside Agency — Child Care Centers, or the licensee’s own form for securing the parent’s written consent. Information on how to obtain forms is available at Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or any regional licensing office in Appendix A.

6. Health history information that includes all the following:

a. The name and birthdate of the child.

b. The full names of the child’s parents.

c. A telephone number where the parent can be reached while the child is in care.

d. The name, address, and telephone number of the physician or medical facility caring for the child.

e. The child’s medical conditions, such as asthma, cerebral palsy, diabetes, epilepsy, food allergies, or gastrointestinal or feeding concerns. If the child has a milk allergy, a statement from a medical professional indicating an acceptable alternative.

f. If the child has a medical condition, triggers that may cause a problem, signs or symptoms for the counselor to watch for, steps a counselor should follow, when to call a parent regarding symptoms, when the condition requires emergency medical care, and identification of all counselors who have received specialized training or instructions to help treat symptoms.
Note: The licensee may use the department’s form, DCF-F-CFS2345, Health History and Emergency Care Plan, or the licensee’s own form for obtaining the information.

6m. Documentation of each child’s immunization history that indicates compliance with s. 252.04, Stats., and ch. DHS 144.

252.41(4)(a)6m Commentary: Under s. 252.04, Wis. Stats., and ch. DHS 144, the immunization record for each child must be on file no later than 30 school days (or 6 calendar weeks) after the first day of a child’s attendance.
Immunization records are required to be on file for school-age children unless the day camp is operated on the school’s premises and the day camp has approved access to the school’s vaccination records.

The Student Immunization Law, s. 252.04, Wis. Stats, sets minimum immunization requirements for children attending a day camp. The immunization history must indicate that the child has received at least the first dose of each immunization required for the child’s age or that the immunization requirement is waived for that child.

If a parent claims a religious or personal conviction exemption, the parent may check the appropriate box and sign the Child Care Immunization Record form in place of providing an immunization history. Immunization requirements may also be waived upon signature of a physician that the child should not be immunized for health reasons as indicated on the Child Care Immunization Record.

For children whose immunization record is not submitted within 30 school days of admission; whose record at 30 school days after admission indicates that they do not have at least the first dose of each required vaccine; or who fall behind schedule (i.e., do not obtain an immunization which their health care provider has indicated is due on a certain date), there are two courses of action for the day camp:

1. As required by Wisconsin law and administrative rule, the center will notify the district attorney that a child has failed to comply with immunization requirements.

OR

2. The child who fails to comply with immunization requirements will be discharged (excluded) from the center until such time as immunization requirements are met.

7. Authorization from the parent outlining the plan for a child to come to the camp from school, home or other activities and to go from the camp to school, home or other activities unless the child is accompanied by a parent or other authorized pick-up person.
Note: The licensee may use either the department’s form, Alternate Arrival/Release Agreement — Child Care Centers, or the licensee’s own form for securing the parent’s signed agreement. Information on how to obtain forms is available at Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or any regional licensing office in Appendix A.

252.41(4)(a)7 Commentary: A parent may authorize other persons to drop-off or pick-up a child through a note or on the Child Care Enrollment form. If a child is transported by a school bus, taxi, or transportation company that may have various individuals providing the transportation, then the written agreement should specify the transportation agency as the authorized pick-up or drop-off “person.”

Children coming to the camp from school or going from the camp to school within the same school building do not need this authorization. Going to and from any other activity within the school requires an authorization.

8. Assessment of the child’s swimming ability, if swimming is included in the program of activities.
Note: Either parents or the camp may assess the child’s swimming ability.

252.41(4)(a)8 Commentary

The camp should be able to demonstrate to the licensing specialist how they have assessed the child’s swimming ability.

The American Red Cross recommends assessing the following skills to determine swimming ability:

Enter water that is over the individual’s head, then return to the surface.
Float or tread water for at least 1 minute.
Turn over and turn around in the water.
Swim at least 25 yards.
Exit the water.

More water safety tips and resources can be found on the American Red Cross’ website.

(c) The licensee shall maintain a current, accurate, written record of the daily attendance and birthdate for each child enrolled in the program. If the hours of arrival and departure of the children vary, the actual time of arrival and departure for each child shall be recorded. Each record shall be maintained as long as the child is enrolled in the program.

252.41(4)(c) Commentary: See DCF 252.425 (1) (b) – CHILD TRACKING PROCEDURE.

A child must be signed in when the child arrives and signed out when the parent arrives to pick up the child. The camp is responsible for children (i.e., knowing their whereabouts) from the time the parent, guardian, or responsible person brings the child to a counselor. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for the child until the child is safely in the camp or received by camp staff.

A center may use the department’s Daily Attendance Record – Child Care Centers form, may choose to use their own paper form, or may use an electronic form or system to capture the same information included on the department’s Daily Attendance Record form. No exception is necessary. The daily attendance record could be a sign-in / sign-out book completed by either the parents or the center; however, the center is responsible for ensuring that this record is accurate. Centers may have a central sign-in/sign-out book and another method to track children by room or provider. It is the child care program/provider’s responsibility to be able to access the electronic form to respond to the Licensing Specialist’s request to review information.

Regardless of the format of the record, it is recommended that the date of discharge be added to the child’s record and that the center retain records for 3 years after a child is discharged.

Each enrolled child’s date of birth must be included on each daily attendance record to ensure appropriate staff-to-child ratios.

The attendance record must be up-to-date and must include each time a child is checked in and out of care at the facility throughout the day (e.g., preschool, swim lessons, etc.).

It is recommended that entries on the Daily Attendance Record be made in ink. If a time was entered incorrectly or by mistake, it is recommended that the incorrect information be struck through and initialed by the person correcting the error.

The child should be signed in for actual hours of care. If a center is licensed for more than 12 hours, times documented should include AM and PM designation.

When the camp provides transportation, attendance must be kept for each child that reflects the time of transportation and the time a child is at the camp. There may be 2 attendance records kept when children are transported. One record could reflect attendance during transportation and the other could reflect attendance while the child is at the camp. Attendance records must include the actual time of pick-up and/or drop-off.

If the child is transported by means other than camp-provided transportation, the transporter is responsible for the child until the child is received by or placed in the vehicle by camp staff. If a child is not received directly by camp or school staff, an authorization for the time the child is moving between the transporter and camp staff must be signed by the parent/legal guardian.
Wisconsin Child Care Subsidy rules require child care providers to retain the written daily attendance records for at least 3 years after the child’s last day of attendance. For questions related to attendance reporting for WI Shares child care subsidy, contact the local child care coordinator.

Note: The department form, Daily Attendance Record — Child Care, may be used to document a child’s daily attendance. Information on how to obtain forms is available at Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or any regional licensing office in Appendix A.

(5) Parents

(a) The camp director shall notify the parents of a child in care immediately and shall provide sufficient detail to apprise the parent if any of the following occurs:

252.41(5)(a) Commentary: See DCF 252.44 (12) (E) – FIELD TRIP – PARENTAL NOTIFICATION.

1. The child becomes ill.

2. The child needs professional evaluation of an injury.

3. The child experiences a head injury, has a seizure, consumes incorrect breastmilk, consumes food or drink that may contain the child’s allergen, consumes or comes in contact with poisonous materials, or is given incorrect medication. For purposes of this subdivision, a “head injury” means a bump, blow, or jolt to the head.

4. The child’s whereabouts are unknown.

5. The child was subject to child guidance that is prohibited under s. DCF 252.44 (2) (c) and (d).

(b) If a child in care has been exposed to a confirmed case of a communicable disease reportable under ch. DHS 145 and transmitted through normal contact, the camp director shall notify the child’s parents when the information becomes known to the camp.

252.41(5)(b) Commentary: See DCF 252.41 (2) (m) – COMMUNICABLE DISEASE – REPORTING. Some of these diseases must be reported to the local public health department. Parents of children exposed to any reportable communicable diseases appearing on this chart must be notified of the exposure. Names of children with communicable disease may not be shared with other families.

Examples of those diseases not transmitted through normal contact are HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B and C, and sexually transmitted diseases.

Contact the local health department for further information.

See Appendix D Resources List, Communicable Diseases Chart.

(c) If a child in care has sustained a minor injury that does not appear to require professional medical evaluation, the camp director shall notify the child’s parents when the child is picked up at the camp or delivered to the parent or other authorized person.

(d) The camp shall notify the parents of any religious training that is part of the camp program. The reference to the religious component shall be included in any publicity and program objectives and activities.

(e) A copy of this chapter shall be posted or made available in an area of the camp where parents are likely to see it.

(f) A copy of the child care policies of the camp shall be made available to the parents in an area of the camp accessible to parents. Personnel policies do not need to be available to parents.

DCF 252.42 Personnel

(2) Staff records

(a) The licensee shall maintain a file on each employee and contracted employee that shall be available for examination by the licensing representative. Each employee’s file shall include all of the following:

252.42(2)(a) Commentary: Files for staff must be available on the employee’s first day of work. When a camp utilizes substitutes from an agency that is not the licensee, the agency may be responsible for collecting and maintaining the required staff file information on the substitute. The licensee is responsible for ensuring that the required information is present in the file and that the file is available for review by the licensing representative.

Information contained in a staff file may be transferred with a staff person if s/he started to work at a new/different location operated by the same licensee.
At the time of initial licensure, staff files including documentation of educational requirements are required for the person who is camp director.

Background check information required under subdivision 3. below, and documentation of the days and hours a person is included in the counselor-to-child ratios required under 5. below are not required to be kept in the individual’s personnel file; however, these records must be readily available for review by the licensing specialist.

Licensees wishing to maintain electronic files on staff should ensure all of the following: the files must be available for review by the licensing specialist during a licensing visit and the files must contain all the required information, including the appropriate department-required forms.

1. The employee’s name, address, date of birth, education, position, previous experience in child care including the reason for leaving previous positions, and the name, address, and telephone numbers of persons to be notified in an emergency.
Note: The licensee may use the department’s form, Staff Record - Child Care Centers, or the licensee’s own form for recording staff information. The form is available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

252.42(2)(a)1 Commentary: See s. 111.31 – 111.395 Wis. Stats., Wisconsin Fair Employment Law. It is not illegal to ask for age or date of birth on an employment form. Employers are prohibited from using age as a basis for discharging or failing or refusing to hire an individual and are prohibited from discriminating in compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because of age. More information can be found at The Department of Workforce Development.

2. Documentation of any pertinent certification or training required for the position, including department-approved training in abusive head trauma, and appropriate ways to manage crying, fussing, or distraught children prior to beginning to work with children in care, if the person will provide care to children under 5 years of age.

252.42(2)(a)2 Commentary: As of September 1, 2020, the new training is titled Abusive Head Trauma Prevention Training for Child Care Providers. Providers who completed Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention training prior to September 1, 2020 are not required to complete the new AHT Prevention training.

A certificate of completion used to document the required SBS/AHT prevention training must contain all of the following: printed (typed) name of student; printed (typed) name of training agency; printed (typed) date the training was completed; printed (typed) name of approved trainer; printed (typed) name of training; and signature of trainer.

3. Documentation from the department, either paper or electronic, that indicates a child care background check was completed in compliance with the timelines and requirements specified in s. 48.686, Stats., and ch. DCF 13 and the person is eligible to work in a child care program.
Note: Information on child care background checks is available at Child Care Background Check Requirements on the department's website.

252.42(2)(a)3 Commentary: Providers submit a Background Check Request (BCR) for themselves and others through the Child Care Provider Portal (CCPP). The digital form must be submitted initially and reviewed every five years at the time the five-year fingerprint check is due.

Per s.48.686 (4m) (c), Wis. Stats., individuals may not begin working or residing at the child care center until they receive preliminary day camp with preliminary eligibility results but must be supervised by someone with final eligibility until the employee or household member receives final eligibility.

As of 09/30/2018, the Preliminary Eligibility Determination and Final Eligibility Determination notices are the documentation accepted as the results of a complete child care background check.

4. Documentation of successful completion of pre-camp training.
Note: The licensee may use the department’s form, Pre-camp Training Documentation - Day Camps, or the licensee’s own form to document the successful completion of pre-camp training. The form is available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

5. Documentation of the days and hours worked when the person was included in the counselor-to-child ratio.

252.42(2)(a)5 Commentary: Documentation includes the group of children with whom the staff person worked

6. Documentation of a high school diploma or its equivalent as determined by the Wisconsin department of public instruction.

252.42(2)(a)6 Commentary: Individuals who have earned a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED) or a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) may obtain a copy of the certificate through the Department of Public Instruction. Documentation includes a high school graduation date on transcripts from an institution of higher education or verification by The Wisconsin Registry after May 31, 2019. Documentation of a 2 or 4 year degree will meet the requirement of having a high school diploma in the file.

7. Documentation of compliance with continuing education requirements under sub. (3) (g).

(b) The licensee shall maintain a listing at the base camp of the name, address, and telephone number of the person to be notified in the event of an emergency involving an employee.

(c) The licensee shall maintain a staff record that meets the requirements specified in par. (a) 1. to 6. for each student teacher or person who works at the camp and is compensated from sources other than the camp.

(2) Camp staff

(a) Camp staff members, including the camp director, counselors, and volunteers, shall be physically, mentally, and emotionally able to provide responsible care for all children, including children with disabilities.

(b) 1. Each day camp shall have a person designated as camp director. The camp director shall be responsible for the administration of the camp, including program operations, staff supervision, business operations, food service, health service, and other supportive services.

2. A camp director shall be at least 21 years of age and shall have at least one of the following:

a. The Wisconsin Afterschool and Youth Development Credential.

b. A bachelor’s degree in outdoor education, recreation, coaching, juvenile justice, social work, psychology, child development, or education, or another camp-related field.

c. Two or more years of supervisory or administrative experience in an organized camp or children’s program.

252.42(2)(b)2.c. Commentary

Experience in a family child care center may be counted toward the experience requirement for camp director.

Other settings that may be approved as experience are generally positions with regulatory oversight, including:

Public, private, or parochial school teacher
Student teacher
Substitute teacher
Employment in ECE programs within schools
Certified child care provider
Mentoring or tutoring through a community-based organization
Out of state experience in any of the above.

Babysitting and nannying will not be approved.

Please contact the regional licensing office to discuss specific situations; see Appendix A for contact information. Include the name of the program where experience was obtained, the age group worked with, the general description of duties performed, and the approximate number of hours of experience.

(d) Lead counselors. A lead counselor shall meet the following conditions:

1. Be at least 18 years of age.

2. Have a high school diploma or the equivalent, as determined by the department of public instruction.

252.42(2)(d)2 Commentary: Commentary: A General Education Diploma (GED) or High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) are diplomas that are equivalent to a high school diploma.

Individuals who have earned a Certificate of General Educational Development or a High School Equivalency Diploma may obtain a copy of the certificate through the Department of Public Instruction transcripts webpage.

Junior counselors or counselors in training are considered in care when parents pay the camp for the child to attend. Junior counselors/counselors in training may assist with activities but may not be responsible for the supervision of children.

(dm) Assistant counselors. An assistant counselor shall meet the following conditions:

1. Be at least 16 years of age.

2. Work under the supervision of a lead counselor with a group of children.

(e) In the absence of a regular staff member, there shall be a similarly qualified staff member or substitute to replace the absent staff member.

252.42(2)(e) Commentary: Individuals who are hired as float staff are not considered substitutes as float staff are regularly scheduled staff.

(3) Staff training

(a) Each day camp shall develop a written pre-camp training plan. A copy of the plan shall be submitted to the department and implemented. The plan shall include all of the following:

1. A review of the applicable parts of this chapter.

2. A review of camp policies and procedures, as required under s. DCF 252.41 (1) (f).

3. Job responsibilities in relation to job descriptions.

4. Training in the recognition of childhood illnesses and infectious disease control, including handwashing procedures and universal precautions for handling bodily fluids.
Note: A copy of the universal precautions may be obtained from the Child Care Information Center by calling 1-800-362-7353 or from the Occupational Health Section, Bureau of Public Health, department of Health Services, 1 W. Wilson St. Madison, WI 53703.

5. Daily activity plans and schedules.

6. First aid procedures.

252.42(3)(a)6 Commentary

Commentary: Procedures that should be addressed include:

Emergency procedures followed in obtaining emergency medical care.
Routine procedures for treatment of minor injuries.
First aid measures for serious accidents.
Planned source of emergency medical care.

Training in first aid procedures does not mean a formal first aid course is required. Appropriate training tools include the First Aid Guide for Parents and Caregivers created by the American Academy of Pediatrics, or the First Aid Chart prepared by the Committee on Accident Prevention and the Subcommittee on Accidental Poisoning, American Academy of Pediatrics.

7. A review of plans required under ss. DCF 252.41 (1) (f) 7. and 8., and 252.43 (2), including the plans for a missing child, fire, or tornado, and for supervision when children are swimming, if applicable.

8. The procedure for ensuring that camp counselors know the children assigned to their care and their whereabouts at all times.

252.42(3)(a)8 Commentary: This includes during camp-sponsored transportation.

9. Training in the use of fire extinguishers and recognition of local poisonous plants, snakes, and other potential hazards on the premises, such as vehicular traffic, and procedures to be followed to protect the children from these hazards.

252.42(3)(a)9 Commentary: See Appendix D Resources List, Common Plants – What’s Poisonous and What’s Not?

10. A review of child abuse and neglect laws and the camp reporting procedures under s. DCF 252.07 (3).

252.42(3)(a)10 Commentary: See DCF 252.07 (3) (b) – ANNUAL TRAINING – CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT.

11. Information on the care of children with disabilities enrolled in the camp and the procedure for sharing information related to a child’s special health care needs, including any physical, emotional, social, or cognitive disabilities with any person who may be assigned to care for that child throughout the day.

12. Child management techniques.

13. For any person who will be providing care and supervision to children under 5 years of age, department-approved training in shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and appropriate ways to manage crying, fussing, or distraught children.

252.42(3)(a)13 Commentary: As of September 1, 2020, the new training will be titled Abusive Head Trauma Prevention Training for Child Care Providers. Providers who completed Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention training prior to September 1, 2020 are not required to complete the new AHT Prevention training.

Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) Prevention Training must be conducted by a person who has completed a department-approved “train the trainer” session and who appears on the list of approved trainers maintained by the department on the Child Care Information Center website. An approved trainer could be a member of the camp staff or another agency.

A certificate of completion used to document the required SBS/AHT prevention training must contain all of the following: printed (typed) name of student; printed (typed) name of training agency; printed (typed) date the training was completed; printed (typed) name of approved trainer; printed (typed) name of training; and signature of trainer.

If a camp is licensed to care for only children age 5 and above, training in SBS/AHT is not required.

(b) All counselors and volunteers who are counted in determining the counselor-to-child ratio shall receive pre-camp training. The pre-camp training shall be for a minimum of 24 hours and shall include orientation at the base camp.

(c) Volunteers who are not counted as counselors for meeting the required counselor-to-child ratio are exempt from the 24-hour pre-camp training if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The volunteer receives at least 4 hours of training in day camp programming, as required under par. (a), including orientation at the base camp.

2. The volunteer works under the supervision of a lead counselor who has met the training requirements specified in par. (b).

(d) The camp director shall plan and implement monthly staff meetings that provide ongoing supervision and in-service training for the staff.

252.42(3)(d) Commentary: Staff meeting dates shall be available to the licensing specialist.

(e) All camp staff in regular contact with the children, including the camp director and each counselor, shall obtain and maintain a current certificate of completion for child and adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including department-approved training in the use of an automatic external defibrillator prior to working with children in care. The CPR training may be included in pre-camp training.

252.42(3)(e) Commentary: All staff in regular contact with children in care are required to have CPR/AED training. For example, if a cook, maintenance person, bus driver, or administrative assistant has regular contact with children, then that cook, maintenance person, driver, or administrative assistant would need CPR/AED training. Regular contact means that the person has contact with children on a regular basis even if a counselor is present. Volunteers who are not counted in the counselor-to-child ratio are not considered staff and do not need to have CPR/AED training.

The Department of Health Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (BEMS) approves agencies to offer CPR with Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training as required by the statutes. A list of current approved agencies is available on the BEMS website. The training must result in a certificate of completion. If the certificate of completion does not have a date specifying the length of time for which it is valid, the CPR/AED training must be renewed every year.

See DCF 252.42 (3) (b) – PRE-CAMP TRAINING REQUIREMENT – STAFF COUNTED IN RATIOS. If CPR/AED is included in pre-camp training, the amount of time required for pre-camp training does not need to be extended by the time it takes to complete CPR/AED. All required components of the pre-camp training must be covered in addition to CPR/AED.

(em) All camp staff in regular contact with children, including the camp director and each counselor, shall complete a training in pediatric first aid procedures prior to working with children in care. The pediatric first aid may be included in pre-camp training.

252.42(3)(em) Commentary: Current camp staff employed before August 1, 2026 will be required to obtain pediatric first aid training.

Current camp staff must complete the pediatric first aid training by the date of their next cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) renewal OR by November 1, 2026, whichever is later.
It is best practice for staff to occasionally take refresher courses in pediatric first aid. Pediatric first aid training is not required to be renewed.

(f) The camp director shall coordinate the volunteer program and keep on file documentation of the days and hours worked for volunteers who are included for meeting the required counselor-to-child ratio.

252.42(3)(f) Commentary: The Department of Children and Families (DCF) conducts background checks for applicants, licensees, household members, and employees of a child care center. In some instances, DCF may conduct a background check on minor household members and contracted individuals.
The Preliminary Eligibility Determination and Final Eligibility Determination notices are the documentation accepted as the result of a complete child care background check after 10/1/2018. The notice should be in the staff file or made available to the licensing specialist upon request.
Per s. 48.686 (4m) (c), individuals may not begin working or residing at a child care center until they receive preliminary eligibility.

New employees or new household members may begin working or residing at a camp with preliminary eligibility results but must be supervised by someone with a DCF-approved child care background check until they receive final eligibility. More information on determining the requirements for volunteers can be found at Child Care Background Check Requirements on the department's website.

(3m) Continuing education

(a) Except as provided in par. (b), each camp director and camp counselor shall participate in at least 8 hours of continuing education annually.

252.42(3m)(a) Commentary: There is no formal approval process through licensing for continuing education. If the licensing specialist has a question about the appropriateness of a continuing education experience, the decision on whether to count that experience should be based on the individual’s response to the question, “How does this continuing education experience/course apply to your position?” Continuing education that relates to another position with the center (such as a director’s responsibilities) may be counted as continuing education even if it does not directly relate to the care of children.

Continuing education experiences that help qualify staff for a position in a center may be counted as part of the required continuing education.

Technical assistance and/or coaching received as part of the YoungStar program may be counted as continuing education for the individual(s) who participated in the technical assistance or coaching, verified by documentation from the technical consultant or coach. For example, if the technical consultant or coach met with the director, only the director may count the technical assistance or coaching as continuing education. If the technical consultant or coach met with staff of a particular age group or classroom, only those staff may count the technical assistance or coaching as continuing education. The formal rating observation for YoungStar may not be counted as continuing education.

The director may count the courses in The Registry Administrator Credential as continuing education.

The department does not approve agencies or trainers for continuing education. However, the Wisconsin Registry’s Professional Development Approval System (PDAS) provides a platform for ensuring that trainers have met certain qualifications and that training topics are taught by qualified instructors. To find continuing education training see the Wisconsin Registry’s website.

(b) Notwithstanding par. (a), each camp director and camp counselor who works fewer than 8 months per year shall participate in the equivalent of at least one hour of continuing education per month of employment as a camp director or camp counselor.

252.42(3m)(b) Commentary: In determining the number of hours an employee works, all paid hours should be used.

(c) Any continuing education hours or courses for credit completed that exceed the annual requirement for the year may be used to meet the annual requirement in the 2 years following completion.

252.42(3m)(c) Commentary: See Appendix D Resources List: Credit to Hours Conversion – Technical Colleges and Universities.

(d) The types of trainings acceptable to meet continuing education requirements shall be any of the following:

1. Formal courses resulting in credits or continuing education units.

252.42(3m)(d)1 Commentary: See Appendix D Resources List: Credit to Hours Conversion – Technical Colleges and Universities

2. Workshops, conferences, seminars, lectures, correspondence courses, and home study courses.

3. Trainings offered by the day camp by guest or staff trainers.

4. Documented observation time in other early childhood programs.

5. Web-based training.

6. Independent reading.

7. Viewing educational materials, including videos, lesson plans, and websites.

8. For participants in the YoungStar program, technical assistance under s. 48.659, Stats.

(e) Continuing education may be in any of the following topics:

1. Prevention and control of infectious diseases.

2. Medication administration.

3. Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions.

4. Identification of and protection from hazards.

5. Building and physical premises safety.

6. Emergency preparedness and response planning.

7. Handling and storage of hazardous materials.

8. Handling and disposing of biocontaminants.

9. Child growth and development.

10. Caring for children with disabilities.

11. Guiding children’s behavior.

12. Nutrition.

13. Physical activity.

14. Transportation and safety.

15. Identification and reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect.

16. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

17. First aid.

18. Business operations.

19. Any other topic that promotes child development or protects children’s health or safety.

252.42(3m)(d)19 Commentary: A report on the video, book, etc., that includes at least the information requested on the form, Continuing Education Record – Independent Reading/Video Viewing, must be completed and placed in the employee file. While not required, this form may be used to document independent reading and watching of educational materials.

Time spent doing research in the Child Development Associate (CDA) process can be counted as a part of these allowed hours. Time spent putting together the portfolio in the CDA process does not count toward continuing education.

A staff trainer is one who has received training or who has developed expertise in a special area and who shares that expertise with other staff through a formal presentation. A staff trainer may not count the time spent providing a presentation towards the continuing education requirement, but the time spent gathering information for use during the presentation may be counted.

(f) Each camp director or camp counselor shall have documentation of their 12-month period for meeting the annual continuing education requirements and begin a new training year in the same month each year.

252.42(3m)(f) Commentary: Centers may choose to use a continuing education year individual to each staff (e.g., 1 year from date of hire) or they may choose to use a common continuing education year (e.g., the fiscal year or the calendar year)

The licensee may use either the department’s form, Staff Continuing Education Record - Child Care Centers, or the licensee’s own form to document the completion of continuing education. The form is available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

(4) Health

(a) No licensee, employee, volunteer, visitor, or parent with symptoms of a communicable disease reportable under ch. DHS 145 or a serious illness that presents a safety or health risk to children may be in contact with the children in care.

(b) 1. No licensee, employee, volunteer, visitor, or parent whose behavior gives reasonable concern for the safety of the children may be in contact with the children in care.

2. The department may require a licensee, employee or other person in contact with the children in care whose behavior gives reasonable concern for the safety of children to submit to an examination by a licensed mental health professional as a condition of licensure or employment.

(c) No person with a health history of typhoid, paratyphoid, dysentery, or other diarrheal disease may work in a camp until it is determined by appropriate tests that the person is not a carrier of the disease.

DCF 252.425 Supervision and Grouping of Children

(1) Supervision

(a) Each child shall be supervised at all times to guide the child’s behavior and activities, prevent harm, and ensure safety.

252.425(1)(a) Commentary: See DCF 252.04 (25) – DEFINITION – SUPERVISION OF CHILDREN.

See DCF 252.425 (1) (b) – CHILD TRACKING PROCEDURE regarding implementing a procedure to ensure that the number, names, and whereabouts of children are known to the assigned counselor at all times.

(am) At least one lead counselor shall supervise each group of children.

(b) All children in care shall be assigned to a counselor. The camp shall implement a procedure to ensure that the number, names, and whereabouts of children in care are known to the assigned camp counselor at all times.

252.425(1)(b) Commentary: At any time throughout the day, during the camp’s hours of operation, the camp must have a written or documented system to determine how many children are present and the names of children that are present. This includes during camp-sponsored transportation and field trips.

(c) 1. Counselors who are included for meeting the required counselor-to-child ratio may not provide care to children more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period.

2. Notwithstanding subd. 1., camps that provide an occasional overnight activity for children enrolled in the camp may allow a counselor to provide care for children for more than 12 hours in the 24-hour period to permit the counselor to remain with the children during the overnight session.

(cm) No person under 18 years of age shall be left in sole charge of a child.

(d) No licensee, employee, volunteer, or other individual in contact with children may consume alcoholic beverages or any non-prescribed controlled substance specified in ch. 961 Stats., on the premises of the camp or be under the influence of any alcohol or non-prescribed controlled substance, during the hours of the camp’s operation.

252.425(1)(d) Commentary: Section 961.01 (4), Wis. Stats., defines "controlled substance" as a drug, substance or immediate precursor in schedules I through V of Subchapter II. Broadly, this covers marijuana, narcotic drugs, opium and opiates, opium poppy and poppy straw. For additional definitions of terms and list of pharmaceuticals which are specifically controlled, see Chapter 961, Wis. Stats.

(e) A child may not be released to any person who has not been previously authorized by the parent.

252.425(1)(e) Commentary: The department recommends the camp document any verbal authorizations. It is also recommended that camp check the photo identification of the person picking up the child.

(f) The camp shall implement a procedure to contact a parent if a child is absent from the camp without prior notification from the parent.

(g) A child may not be in care for more than 14 hours in any 24-hour period.

(h) The camp director shall be at the camp during the hours of operation, except if any of the following conditions are met:

1. The camp director is on a field trip with all of the children.

2. The camp director is on a field trip with some of the children and has a reliable method of communicating easily with the camp.

3. Another qualified person that is identified in the written delegation of administrative authority under s. DCF 252.41 (1) (p) is present at the camp and is authorized to make decisions for the camp.

(i) When 9 or more children are present at the camp, there shall be at least 2 employees available at all times and at least one of the employees shall be a lead counselor.

252.425(1)(i) Commentary: The second adult may be a cook, maintenance worker, secretary, or other person who does not normally work with children as long as the person is aware that they may be asked for assistance in case of an emergency. The waterfront supervisor may be counted as the second adult as long as children are not in the water during the time the waterfront supervisor is serving in this capacity. If children are in the water or waterfront area, the waterfront supervisor may not be used as the required second adult.

(2) Grouping of children

(a) 1. Except as provided in subds. 2. and 4., the ratio of counselors to children may not be less than the minimum number of counselors to children specified in Table DCF 252.425.

Table DCF 252.425 Counselor-to-child ratio for children in a day camp

Age of children	Minimum number of counselors to children
3 Years to 4 Years	1:4
4 Years to 5 Years	1:6
5 Years and 6 Years	1:12
7 Years and Over	1:18

2. When there is a mixed-age group, the counselor-to-child ratio shall be adjusted on a pro rata basis, according to age.

252.425(2)(a)2 Commentary: See DCF 252.425 (2) (a) 1. – COUNSELOR-TO-CHILD RATIOS. When working with mixed-age groups, the Counselor-to-Child Ratio Worksheet may be used to determine the number of staff necessary to care for children.

Note: The department’s form, Counselor-to-Child Ratio Worksheet may be used to prorate the staff-to-child ratio for mixed age groups. Information on how to obtain forms is available at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications on the department's website.

4. When 9 or more children are on a field trip, at least 2 adults shall accompany the children. The counselor-to-child ratios in Table DCF 252.425 shall be met on field trips.

(b) Support staff, such as maintenance, clerical, housekeeping, and food service staff, may only be considered in determining counselor–to–child ratios if the support staff meet the qualifications of a camp counselor and are giving full attention to the care and supervision of children.

(c) A camp counselor may not engage in any duties that are not related to caring for children while he or she is counted in meeting the required counselor–to–child ratios.

252.425(2)(c) Commentary: Acceptable duties could include routine daily housekeeping in the area where the children are, such as dusting, floor sweeping, table/chair washing, straightening the room, putting out bag lunches with milk, preparing snack in the room, etc., if these are part of the counselor’s job responsibility prescribed by the camp and do not consume the full attention of the counselor.

In camps where space used by children is used for other purposes outside the hours of operation, prohibited duties include moving furnishings and equipment into storage before children have departed.

If support staff are used as counselors, the schedule of differing job responsibilities in relation to counselor-to-child ratios must be determined. An example may be a counselor who prepares a snack or meal which requires no more than 10 minutes time and who is immediately accessible in case of emergency is still considered to be a counselor while performing these tasks. If food preparation takes more than 10 minutes and/or removes the counselor from immediate availability, the counselor is considered to be support staff for that time period and does not count in determining counselor-to-child ratios

(d) Children of staff who attend the camp and who are on the premises for supervision and care shall be counted in the determination of counselor-to-child ratios.

DCF 252.43 Base Camp and Facilities

(1) Site and building

(a) The licensee shall identify a base camp that provides an environment that allows the program to be oriented to the out-of-doors. The base camp shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition at all times.

252.43(1)(a) Commentary: The base camp is the primary location where children will be spending their time or “home base” if children leave to go to other areas.

If field trips are the primary way the camp operates, then the base camp may change daily. For example, if the group is at the zoo one day and a park the next day, the camp will need to designate a base camp at the zoo and at the park. It could be a shelter or a specific meeting place or something similar.

(b) The base camp shall have a building or shelter for use by the camp during inclement weather. If the shelter is not enclosed, the camp shall implement a procedure for ensuring that children are protected from the elements.

252.43(1)(b) Commentary: The use of a one-exit basement as an emergency shelter during tornadoes and similar emergencies is allowed. Use of a one-exit level is prohibited for any other purpose.

The tornado evacuation area should be accessible and free of hazards during tornado season. Tornadoes can occur at any time of year, but peak months in Wisconsin are during the summer. The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios. Television and radio are also excellent sources of warning information. Contact the local fire department, Department of Natural Resources Ranger Station, or emergency government to determine the safest place to take shelter in the area.

(c) The base camp shall be located on a well-drained site not subject to flooding. The premises shall be properly graded to prevent the accumulation of storm or other waters that may create hazards to the property or to the health or safety of the occupants. No camp may be located in an area that is situated so that drainage for any source of filth, such as garbage or animal waste disposal, can be deposited on the site.
Note: Local authorities should be consulted to obtain any required zoning clearances or building permits. Chapter NR 115 and s. NR 116.12 (2) (b) may affect the camp’s location with regard to flood plains and shore land areas.

(d) Buildings and shelters on sites used or constructed primarily for day camp purposes shall comply with the applicable Wisconsin Commercial Building Code and applicable local ordinances. A copy of the building inspection report shall be on file with the department.
Note: Local authorities should be consulted to obtain any required zoning clearances or building permits.

252.43(1)(d) Commentary: Inspections can be obtained from a commercial building inspector certified by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) in accordance with ch. SPS 305, “Licenses, Certifications, and Registration.” Reference A map of commercial building inspection districts and contact information.

Only those buildings used primarily for day camps are required to comply with the applicable commercial building codes. If the base camp is used primarily for other purposes, a building inspection report is not required to be on file with the department.

If a building is used primarily as a base camp, a license may not be issued until documentation of compliance with all applicable commercial building codes has been submitted to the department. Documentation could be a copy of the Building Inspection Report – Child Care Centers or a letter from a registered architect or engineer or from a commercial building inspector certified by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

The documentation must indicate that all applicable commercial building codes have been met. If any codes listed are designated “not met,” all necessary modifications must be completed before the license is issued. Arrangements for inspections and reports are the responsibility of the applicant/licensee.

Licensees are encouraged to request the building inspector to inspect all potential classroom spaces to be able to care for the greatest age range of children possible. For example, in a center that intends to care for children 6 weeks through 12 years of age, it is recommended that all classrooms be inspected to determine if children 6 weeks through 12 years of age could be cared for in those rooms.

It is also recommended that licensees ask the building inspector to identify the greatest number of children who could be cared for in the building, rather than telling the inspector how many children they will initially be requesting to be licensed for.

This serves two purposes:

1. It will allow the licensee greater flexibility for mixed-age grouping of children.
2. It will alleviate the need for an additional building inspection in the future, should the licensee wish to change how they are using the space.

The person requesting an inspection should ask for assistance in determining whether any modifications are necessary to ensure that the building meets the applicable commercial building codes. Buildings used primarily for day camps will typically need to meet the "I-4" building codes. Under certain circumstances, a building may meet the "E" codes.

If a building is modified in any way that will affect the structural strength, fire hazard, internal circulation, or exits of the existing building or structure, building plans must be submitted to DSPS Plan Approval section prior to the modifications being made. Only plans affecting those areas being altered must be submitted for a plan review.

(e) All buildings and structures used by children for day camp purposes shall have not less than 2 plainly marked exits that are free of obstruction.

(f) The base camp premises and any structures used by children on the premises shall be free of litter, safe, well maintained, in good repair, and clean.

(g) If the base camp includes an enclosed building used by children, the inside temperature of the building may not be less than 67 degrees Fahrenheit. If the inside temperature exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the licensee shall provide for air circulation with fans or by other means.

252.43(1)(g) Commentary

The licensing specialist may determine the temperature of a room as follows:

Temperature is measured at 24 inches above the floor level.
Room without windows: Temperature taken in center of the room.
Room with windows: Temperature taken one foot away from windows and at the center of the room and then averaged.
All rooms designated as camp space must comply with the 67 F minimum.

Air conditioning may be used to provide air circulation. Caution should be exercised regarding fan placement and condition of fans to prevent lacerations and toppling hazards. Windows may be opened if there is sufficient breeze to circulate the air.

(h) Painted exterior and interior surfaces accessible to children shall be free of flaking or deteriorating paint and finished with lead-free paint or other non-toxic material.

252.43(1)(h) Commentary: The rule does not require that the whole room or total outside wall be refinished. The area of flaking or deteriorating paint should be refinished in a manner that protects the children in care.

Administrative Rule DHS 163 applies to child care centers when renovation or repair is made to any surface where 6 sq. ft. or more of interior paint or 20 sq. ft. of exterior paint is disturbed in a building that was built prior to 1978. Any renovation or repair that involves windows in a building built prior to 1978 must also be conducted in accordance with DHS 163.

See Appendix D Resources List, Guidance for Child Care Providers Regarding Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Child Care Settings.

For more information on asbestos or lead regulations, training, certification, work practices, inspections, or other related questions, please contact the Division of Public Health, Bureau of Environmental & Occupational Health, Asbestos And Lead Unit, phone: (608) 261-6876, fax: (608) 266-9711, email: dhsasbestoslead@dhs.wisconsin.gov.

(i) Garbage and refuse at the base camp shall be kept in rigid, watertight, and leak-proof containers with tight-fitting covers and disposed of as necessary to prevent decomposition and overflow.

252.43(1)(i) Commentary: Garbage refers to food waste. Containers for non-food waste do not require covers. Containers should be impervious to vermin.

(j) The areas around garbage and refuse containers shall be clean and dry.

(k) Solid waste disposal sites on the premises must be licensed by the Department of Natural Resources.

(L) The growth of brush, weeds, grass, and plants shall be controlled in the base camp area to prevent the harborage of noxious insects, rodents, and any other animals.

(m) Chemical and other insect, weed, and rodent control measures shall be used in accordance with label instructions.

252.43(1)(m) Commentary: If chemicals are used to control insects or rodents in the camp area, children should not be exposed to the spray or residue, if that exposure could be harmful to the children. The label instructions to prevent harm must be followed.

An integrated pest management program is recommended to reduce exposure to pesticides.

(2) Protective measures

(a) Children shall be protected from indoor and outdoor hazards, including vehicular traffic and any recalled products.
Note: Lists of recalled products are available on the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection website at Keep Your Kids Safe Newsletter or by contacting the U.S. consumer products safety commission (US CPSC) at 1-800-638-2772.

(b) Materials harmful to children, including drugs, pesticides, flammable or combustible materials, insecticides, matches, cleaning supplies, bleaches, and other hazardous, toxic, or poisonous materials shall be stored in the original, covered, and labeled container in areas not accessible to children. Power tools shall be stored so they are inaccessible to children.

252.43(2)(b) Commentary: It is recommended that day camps operating in areas or buildings used for other purposes where others may have access to the environment during non-licensed hours (school buildings, churches, parks, etc.) have staff routinely check classrooms for materials harmful to children before children arrive.

“Inaccessible” is defined as unable to reach.

Any items labeled “poisonous” or “keep out of reach of children” and items in spray cans may not be accessible to children.

There may be times when a camp wishes to use an item labeled “keep out of reach of children” for an organized activity. These types of activities are permitted as long as the activity is closely supervised by a counselor who is readily available to assist the children if necessary. The use of these materials should be based on the ages and developmental levels of children using the materials.

(c) A motor vehicle shall be immediately available at the camp in case of emergency if a public or private rescue or emergency vehicle cannot arrive at the camp within 10 minutes of a phone call.

(d) Smoking is prohibited anywhere on the premises or in a vehicle used to transport children when children are in care.

252.43(2)(d) Commentary: 2009 WI Act 12 banned smoking in all public places and workplaces, regardless of whether the building is publicly or privately owned.

Use of vapes, electronic cigarettes or other smoking devices is prohibited on the premises when children are present.

If a day camp is located in a building with other occupants, the other occupants or other persons may not smoke in rooms or areas identified as the premises of the day camp. If certain halls or passageways are used in common with other occupants of the building, smoking may not occur in these common use areas.

If a camp is located in a public area such as a park or other area open to the public and people are smoking, the counselor assigned to any children in the area of the smoker must ensure that the children are protected from the effects of smoking.

(e) The camp shall have a working telephone at the camp during the hours of operation. A list of emergency telephone numbers, including fire, law enforcement, and poison control shall be in a location known to all camp counselors. In this paragraph, “telephone” does not include a pay telephone requiring payment to reach the operator or a telephone in a locked room.

252.43(2)(e) Commentary: If a camp is in a community with 911 services, the only phone numbers required to be posted are 911 and poison control.

It is recommended that the street address for the camp be posted near the telephone, and it is recommended that the phone number for the local child protective services agency be available as well.

A working telephone is defined as a phone that can make and receive phone calls. Cell phones and cordless phones may be used as the only phone in a camp if the phone is charged and there are no dead spots in the camp that would prohibit calls from being received or made. All camp staff must have access to the designated phone and knowledge of the passcode, if applicable. Cell phones must remain at the camp when children are present at the camp. When all the children are on a field trip, the cell phone may be taken on the field trip.

Camps are not required to answer phone calls received during the camp’s hours of operation, but they must specify the procedure for receiving information from parents if they use an answering machine or voice mail service.

It is recommended that emergency numbers be saved in the cell phone.

(3) Emergency plans and drills

(a) Each camp shall have a written plan for taking appropriate action in the event of an emergency situation, including a fire, tornado, or natural disaster, extreme heat or cold, lost or missing children, a missing swimmer, an accident, an illness, allergic reactions, human-caused events, such as threats to the premises or its occupants, or other circumstances requiring immediate attention. The plan shall include specific procedures that address all of the following:

252.43(3)(a) Commentary: The camp emergency plan should address all the emergencies identified above that might occur at the camp (e.g., if the camp is not located in an area that is subject to floods, an emergency plan does not need to address floods).

The plan should include staff member duties and responsibilities; exiting on all levels of a building used by children; and identifying items that are recommended to be with the staff, such as attendance list, emergency cards, flashlight, and battery-operated radio or cell phone. Information on developing emergency plans could be obtained from local fire departments, local emergency management, the Child Care Information Center, or Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.

Tornados can occur at any time of year, but peak months in Wisconsin are during the summer. The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios. Television and radio are also excellent sources of warning information. Local fire departments, local emergency government officials, or the Department of Natural Resources should be consulted to determine the safest place during a tornado warning.

It is recommended that at least once during a camp session, the camp conduct a fire and tornado drill to ensure that staff and children are familiar with the camp’s procedure in case of an emergency.

1. Evacuation, relocation, shelter-in-place, and lock–down.

2. Procedures for ensuring that the needs of children with chronic medical conditions and children with disabilities are met.

3. Communication with parents.

4. Connecting children with their parents if the camp is required to evacuate the premises.

5. Continuity of operations, including steps the day camp will take to demonstrate that they are prepared to resume business, when possible, following an emergency.

(am) Practice the emergency evacuation plans and tornado drills monthly during day camp operation with all staff, volunteers, and enrolled children.

252.43(3)(am) Commentary: Evacuation drills must be practiced using the appropriate warning device—i.e., local alarm or interconnected or battery-operated smoke detectors. If a building has a fire protection system (sprinklers) that does not have an audible signaling device, the use of a battery-operated smoke detector is recommended. Other types of manual signaling devices are not recommended as the goal is to accustom the children to hearing a sound that might be triggered in a real emergency. The tornado evacuation area should be accessible and free of hazards during tornado season.

Children are not required to exit the building completely during a fire drill in winter or inclement weather; however, they should be directed to proceed to the nearest exit and staff should review with the children how an actual fire would affect the program. Children shall not take the time to put on their coats before evacuating a building.

Both fire and tornado evacuations should be practiced on a varied schedule developed by the center.

Tornadoes can occur at any time of year, but peak months in Wisconsin are during the summer. The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios. Television and radio are also excellent sources of warning information. Contact the local fire department or emergency government to determine the safest place in the building during a tornado warning.

(b) Each staff member and volunteer shall be informed of and knowledgeable about their duties in the event of an emergency and the appropriate evacuation routes.

252.43(3)(b) Commentary: Staff responsibilities during a fire, a tornado, or other emergency should be defined in the emergency plans required under DCF252.41 (1) (f) 7. Licensing specialist may verify that staff know what their duties are in a fire, a tornado, or other emergency by reviewing the pre-camp training plan or interviews with staff.

(bm) Keep a written record of dates and times all fire and tornado drills are practiced.

252.43(3)(bm) Commentary: The written record must contain the time of day and length of the time the drill took to complete. The recommended goal for exiting time is less than 2 minutes.

The licensee may use the department’s form Safety and Emergency Response Documentation - Group Child Care Centers, to document the results of the monthly testing of fire alarms and smoke detectors. Forms are available through Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications, or from any regional licensing office in Appendix A.

(c) All fire protection facilities and equipment, including fire extinguishers, shall be operable and maintained in working order by a qualified person. Each fire extinguisher shall be inspected once per year by a qualified person and have a label indicating its present condition and the date of the last inspection.

252.43(3)(c) Commentary: For questions regarding the type, number, and placement of fire extinguishers, it is recommended that the camp consult the local fire department.

It is the responsibility of the licensee to ensure that the extinguishers are inspected by a commercial fire safety company or fire department and appropriately tagged.

(d) Before camp opens, written notification of the camp operation shall be given to the nearest fire department or forest ranger service for protection in case of fire. The notification shall include the dates the camp will be operational and the number and ages of children in care.

(e) Any necessary permits required for operation of incinerators or for open fires shall be secured and available for review by a licensing representative.
Note: The department recommends that the licensee contact the local municipality and the Department of Natural Resources prior to the camp opening to determine what permits are required.

(f) The clearing around open fires shall be free of burnable materials for a radius of 6 feet.

(3m) Food preparation, service, and storage

(a) When meals are prepared or heated on the premises, the kitchen area shall be equipped with a microwave or stove, a refrigerator, a sink, and utensils that are necessary to prepare and serve meals. The sink shall be used exclusively for food preparation and dishwashing.

252.43(3m)(a) Commentary: See DCF 252.43 (3m) (e) – FOOD STORAGE – TEMPERATURES. If the camp provides meals or snacks that require some preparation, a kitchen area is required. If meals and snacks are supplied by parents or require no preparation, a kitchen is not required. Food must be stored at temperatures that protect against spoilage.

(b) Camps preparing or serving only snacks are not required to have a sink unless dishes or utensils requiring dishwashing are used. Camps preparing or serving only snacks are not required to have a microwave or stove unless the snacks require heating.

(c) All equipment and utensils used for preparing, serving, or storing food shall have smooth hard surfaces, be easily cleanable, in good repair, durable, non-toxic, and free of cracks, seams, chips, and roughened areas, and be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.

(d) Single-service utensils and food containers may not be reused.

252.43(3m)(d) Commentary: Single-service refers to cups, containers, lids or closures, plates, knives, forks, spoons, etc. intended by the manufacturer for one-time, one-person use and then to be discarded.

(e) Foods shall be stored at temperatures that protect against spoilage. Milk and other perishable food shall be maintained at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

252.43(3m)(e) Commentary: If meals and snacks provided by the parents require refrigeration, the camp must make provisions to store the food at the appropriate temperature.

Food kept in coolers must be maintained at the appropriate temperature by using ice or other means.

(f) Food shall be protected from potential contamination and adulteration, including dirt, insects, rodents, or animals. Dry foods, such as cereals, crackers, and pasta shall be stored in bags with zip-type closures or metal, glass, or food-grade plastic containers with tight-fitting covers and shall be labeled and dated. In this paragraph, “food-grade plastic” means any plastic material used in the manufacture of dishes or utensils which has been found not harmful to human health by the national sanitation foundation.

(fm) Food shall be clean, wholesome, free from spoilage, free from adulteration or misbranding, and safe for human consumption. Meat, poultry, fish, molluscan shellfish, eggs, and dairy products shall be from an inspected source.

252.43(3m)(fm) Commentary

Labels must include contents. Containers holding food that can be reliably and unmistakably identified such as dry pasta are not required to be labeled with the contents.

It is acceptable to store bread and buns in their original packaging.

Reusing milk jugs for food or beverage storage is not acceptable.

A plastic container that originally contained nonfood products may not be food grade plastic. A single-use plastic container used by the processor to package food may be reused for food storage if the container is smooth, easily cleanable, and durable (e.g., Cool Whip and deli containers).

(g) Raw fruits and vegetables shall be washed before being served or cooked.

(h) Meals shall be prepared at the base camp in a central kitchen operated by the camp or in another location that has been inspected by a representative of a state agency. Food delivery vehicles shall be equipped with clean containers or cabinets to store food while in transit. Containers for cold food shall be capable of maintaining the temperature at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and containers for hot food shall be capable of maintaining the temperature at or above 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Note: The rules for retail food establishments are in ch. ATCP 75, found here: Chapter ATCP 75 - Retail Food Establishments.

252.43(3m)(h) Commentary: The Department of Health Services, Division of Public Health conducts inspections of public school kitchens for the Department of Public Instruction. Private school kitchens might not be inspected by another state agency unless that kitchen holds a restaurant license. Restaurants, catering agencies, hospitals and nursing homes, and other residential agencies licensed by the Department of Health Services or the Department of Children and Families have their kitchens inspected by the licensing agency. A copy of any applicable license and the most recent inspection report is required. If a catering service is used, the meals must be prepared on the premises of the licensed catering agency.

The licensing specialist is the representative of the Department of Children and Families who conducts the inspection when a central kitchen operated by the licensee prepares food for other centers/camps owned by the licensee. Agencies preparing, transporting, and serving food may need a retail food establishment license. Contact the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection for information on obtaining a retail food establishment license.

Food that is transported from one location to another must be transported in ways that will protect the food from spoilage or contamination. Food transportation containers including coolers must be capable of maintaining hot food at 140° F or more and cold food at 40° F or less. All food transported must be covered securely to prevent spilling and the vehicle must be clean.

(i) Extra food that was prepared but not served shall be dated, refrigerated promptly, and used within 36 hours, or frozen immediately for use within 6 months.

(4) Water

(a) A safe supply of drinking water shall be available to children and staff at all times from a drinking fountain of the angle jet type or by use of disposable or reusable cup or water bottle. Common use of drinkware is prohibited.

252.43(4)(a) Commentary: The water supply shall be of sufficient volume and height so the person’s mouth does not come in contact with the fountain's spout.

Drinking water from a water hose is prohibited.

If a building is closed and unused for an extended period (i.e., one week or longer), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends flushing the building’s plumbing before reopening. Flushing involves opening taps and letting the water run to remove stagnant water from the interior pipes.
Some municipalities may have differing recommendations based on the period the building was closed. It is recommended that you contact your local municipality to check recommendations.
It is recommended that any drinking or cooking water outlets are flushed for at least 30 seconds before use. Water fountains with a refrigeration cooler are recommended to be flushed for at least 15 minutes.

Flushing water systems can increase the amount of debris found in faucet aerators. It is recommended to remove and clean aerators after flushing water systems.

(b) If a camp gets its water from a private well, the camp shall comply with all of the following:

1. a. At least 2 weeks prior to the camp opening each year, the camp shall have water samples from the well tested for total coliform and Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria using a laboratory certified by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection as specified in ch. ATCP 77. The laboratory report shall be available to the department upon request.

b. If the water test results indicate the presence of total coliform or E. coli bacteria, the water system shall be appropriately disinfected or treated and retested until it is determined to be free of bacteria. An alternative source of water shall be used for drinking and preparing food until the well is free from bacteria.
Note 1: A list of laboratories certified to test for bacteria can be found on the Department of Natural Resources website.
Note 2: Alternative sources of drinking water can include bottled water and water from a public water system that meets drinking water standards.

252.43(4)(b)1.b. Commentary: Total coliform and E. coli tests are sometimes run concurrently. If the sample tests negative for total coliform, the sample is also negative for E. coli.

2. a. At least 2 weeks prior to the camp opening each year, the camp shall have water samples from the well tested for nitrate using a laboratory certified under ch. NR 149. The laboratory report shall be available to the department upon request.

b. If water test results indicate nitrate levels are above 10 mg/L, an alternative source of water shall be used for drinking and preparing food until nitrate levels are below 10 mg/L.
Note 1: A list of laboratories certified to test for nitrate can be found on Department of Natural Resources website.
Note 2: Alternative sources of drinking water include bottled water, water that has been treated with a device certified by the Department of Safety and Professional Services to remove nitrate, and water from a public water system that meets drinking water standards.

3. a. The camp shall have the well tested for lead every five years including a laboratory certified by the Department of Natural Resources under ch. NR 149. The laboratory report shall be available to the department upon request.

b. If water test results indicate lead levels are above 15 micrograms per liter (μg/L), an alternative source of water shall be used for drinking and preparing food until action is taken to reduce lead levels below 15 μg/L as confirmed by an additional water test.
Note 1: A list of laboratories certified to test for lead can be found on Department of Natural Resources website.
Note 2: Alternative sources of drinking water include, but are not limited to, bottled water, and water from a source known to be low in lead, such as a public water system that meets drinking water standards.
Note 3: Camps that meet the definition of a “public water system” in s. NR 809.04 (67) are required to comply with ch. NR 809, Safe Drinking Water Act Standards. For further information, see Department of Natural Resources - Drinking Water.

252.43(4)(b)3.b. Commentary: The State Plumbing Codes require that any plumbing system in any building be provided with water from a known potable and bacteriologically safe source [SPS 382.10 (2) (a). Every building intended for human occupancy shall be provided with an adequate, safe and potable water supply.]. The use of bottled water is allowed only on a very temporary basis until a complying water supply is provided.

If the water tests high in nitrates, the center must still obtain an annual water test for nitrates.
If the water is bacteriologically positive or has high lead levels, it must be treated and retested.
If water is bacteriologically positive, bottled water shall be used for hand washing and laundering in addition to drinking and cooking.

Contact the DNR Bureau of Drinking Water and Groundwater for more information.

(c) 1. When running water is not available, a camp shall use a covered drinking water container that is all of the following:

a. Easily distinguishable from other containers.

b. Constructed of a food grade material that does not permit the water to become contaminated by dirt, insects, or animals.

c. Suitable for pouring or equipped with a faucet.

2. No one may dip into the water in the water container.

3. The water container shall be cleaned and sanitized daily.

4. The water in the container shall meet the requirements under par. (a) and (b).

(5) Washrooms and toilet facilities

(a) Handwashing and toileting facilities shall be provided and accessible to children.

(b) Single-use disposable towels shall be provided and accessible to children.

(d) Outdoor toilets, when used, shall be constructed according to the requirements of the applicable Wisconsin commercial building codes and maintained in good repair.

(e) A portable toilet shall be in compliance with s. SPS 391.13 and local ordinances.

(f) Plumbing shall comply with all applicable sections of Wisconsin plumbing codes.

(g) Liquid waste disposal shall be connected to a public sewer, if available. If not available, liquid waste disposal shall be in accordance with chs. SPS 382, 383, and 384.

(h) Handwashing and toilet facilities shall be in clean and sanitary condition.

DCF 252.44 Program

(1) Program planning and implementation

(a) Each day camp shall have a written program of activities that shall be planned according to the developmental level of each child and each group of children and intended to expose children to a variety of cultures. The needs of children with disabilities shall be considered when planning the programming and activities for enrolled children. The program of activities shall focus on the outdoors and the natural environment and shall reflect the camp’s written policies. The program shall provide each child with experiences that will promote all of the following:

DCF 252.44(1)(a) Commentary: See DCF 252.04 (9) – DEFINITION – DAY CAMP OR CAMP. The definition of a camp states that the program must be oriented to the out of doors. This could be outdoor sports related activities, nature activities, etc.

The program of activities should include all the types of activities specified under paragraphs (a) and (b).

The program of activities may reflect camp session focus or may be on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis and should reflect the developmental goals based on the rules. It may also include a daily schedule.

1. An appreciation and understanding of the natural environment.

2. Large and small muscle development.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)2 Commentary

Examples of activities that encourage large muscle development include:

Use of large muscle equipment such as climbing equipment, balls, bicycles, roller blades, skateboards, etc.
Group activities (musical or non-musical) involving physical activity such as marching, skipping, jumping, dancing, physical fitness activities, tumbling, running; games that facilitate understanding of how our bodies move and that develop coordination, balance, strength, and endurance.

Examples of activities that encourage small muscle development include:

Arts and crafts activities.
Construction activities such as woodworking, building, etc.

3. Intellectual growth.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)3 Commentary

Examples of activities that encourage intellectual growth include:

Science activities.
Sensory experience, such as tactile, auditory, and smelling activities.
Discrimination activities involving symbols, shapes, colors, serration, categorizing, matching, etc.
Activities involving problem solving and memory skills.
Opportunities to explore the environment and find developmentally appropriate challenges.

4. Self-esteem and positive self-image.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)4 Commentary

Examples of activities that encourage self-esteem and positive self-image include:

Group activities such as games and songs where children's names are used.
Adults address children by name when speaking to them and use child's name in group activities.
Dramatic-play activities that involve opportunities to explore multi-cultural settings, gender differences and the use of props.
Thoughtful verbal recognition of the child's ideas, expressions and contributions.

5. Opportunities for recreation.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)5 Commentary

Examples of activities that provide opportunities for recreation include:

Observation of nature during nature walks.
Group games such as Red Light, Green Light or Mother, May I.
Organized sports, such as kickball, soccer, and t-ball.

Daily physical activity is an important part of preventing childhood obesity. Some evidence also suggests that children may be able to learn better during or immediately after bursts of physical activity due to improved attention and focus. It is recommended that the camp promote children’s active play every day. Children should have ample opportunity to do vigorous activities such as running, climbing, dancing, skipping, and jumping. This could include two or three occasions of active play outdoors each day, weather permitting; two or more structured or adult-lead activities or games that promote movement over the course of the day in both indoor and outdoor settings, opportunities during transitions to use movement skills, and continuous opportunities to develop and practice age-appropriate gross motor and movement skills.

6. Social interaction.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)6 Commentary

Examples of activities that encourage social interactions include:

Dramatic play opportunities.
Self-selected cooperative play experiences that give children opportunities to interact.
Mealtime conversation.
Selected activities for children in small groups such as cooking, science, nature, and games.

7. Creative expression.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)7 Commentary

Examples of activities that encourage creative expression include:

Music, dance, and movement activities.
Sand, water, and block play.
Non-directed use of non-limiting materials such as clay, paint, and crayons.
Woodworking.
Arts and craft activities.

8. Self-expression and communication skills.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)8 Commentary

Examples of activities that encourage self-expression and communication skills include:

Non-directed creative art experiences.
Asking questions to elicit responses from children.
Encouraging children to participate in discussions and give attention to each speaker, including planning for the day, field trips, etc.
Providing opportunities throughout the day for children to converse and share their ideas with others.
Puppet play and use of flannel boards.
Creative dramatics.
Meal time conversation.

9. Literacy skills.

DCF 252.44(1)(a)9 Commentary

Activities that will help develop a child's literacy skills include:

Reading to children.
Dramatic play and play-acting activities.
Use of puppets and flannel boards.

Note: With parental consent and consultation, it is recommended that camps who care for children who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) coordinate programming activities with the local school district.

(b) The program shall:

1. Protect the children from excessive fatigue and from overstimulation.

2. Encourage spontaneous activities.

3. Be planned to provide a flexible balance each day of:

a. Active and quiet activities.

b. Individual and group activities.

4. Provide daily opportunities for children to play outdoors except during inclement weather or when not advisable for health reasons.

DCF 252.44(1)(b)4 Commentary: Centers should monitor outdoor conditions for their current physical location. This includes weather, air quality, and any regional conditional notices. The Department of Natural Resources website includes an air quality data map designed to help residents stay informed about air quality conditions in real time.

5. Provide reasonable regularity in eating, resting and other routines.

6. Provide daily periods when a variety of experiences are concurrently available for the children to select their own activities.

7. Limit the amount of time that children are kept waiting in lines or assembled in large groups during routines such as toileting and eating and intervals between activities.

(2) Child guidance

(a) Each day camp shall have a written policy on guiding children’s behavior which provides for positive guidance, redirection and the setting of clear-cut limits. The policy shall be designed to help each child develop self-control, self-esteem, and respect for the rights of others.

(b) 1. In this paragraph, a “time-out period” means a break from the large group that a counselor offers a child to provide the child an opportunity to calm and regain composure while being supported by the counselor.

2. A camp may use a time-out period to handle a child’s unacceptable behavior only if all of the following conditions are met:

a. The counselor offers the child the time-out period in a non-humiliating manner.

b. The time-out period does not exceed 3 minutes.

c. The child is not isolated.

d. The child is not removed from group location.

3. The procedures for a time-out period shall be included in the camp guidance policy under par. (a).

DCF 252.44(2)(b)3 Commentary

There are some scenarios in which there are grounds for a child to be removed from the group location. If the child is putting themself or others in danger, the child may be removed from the area. Staff must ensure that staff-to-child ratios are being met at all times. After a child is removed, staff will assist the child in regaining their composure. Centers should have a plan in place to ensure that the child is returned to the group within 3 minutes.
If the child makes the choice that they would like to leave the classroom to go for a walk or visit the front office, staff may escort the child to that area.
In some circumstances, an exception for the removal of the child from the classroom may be considered if the child has had an evaluation that resulted in an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individual Education Plan (IEP). The following conditions must be met:

The IFSP or IEP indicates the removal of the child as one part of a plan to help the child learn to manage their behaviors.
The center identifies a person(s) who will be assigned the responsibility of supervising the child.
The center documents the removal of the child and the situation leading to the removal.
The center notifies the child’s parent of the removal of the child and the situation leading to the removal.
A copy of the documentation related to the removal of the child is submitted to the department within 24 hours of the removal of the child.
A copy of the IFSP or the IEP shall be available to all providers working with the child.
The exception is reviewed and reapproved periodically (recommended every 3 – 4 months).
See Appendix D Resources List, Early Years Are Learning Years – Time Out for “Time-out.”

Time-outs may be used if:

Use is identified in the center child guidance policy for specified types of behavior which child care workers wish to stop.
The behaviors are identified to children.
The child is within sight and sound and under the supervision of an adult.
The reason for the time out is explained to the child.
The child care worker has a conversation with the child to reflect on making better choices.
The child is transitioned back to an activity.

(c) Actions that may be psychologically, emotionally or physically painful, discomforting, dangerous or potentially injurious are prohibited. Examples of prohibited actions include:

1. Spanking, hitting, pinching, shaking, slapping, twisting, throwing or inflicting any other form of corporal punishment.

2. Verbal abuse, threats or derogatory remarks about the child or the child’s family.

DCF 252.44(2)(c)2 Commentary: "Verbal abuse" means profane, insulting, or coarse language sometimes but not always delivered in a loud or threatening manner or language which is ego deflating, causing loss of self-esteem.

3. Physical restraint, binding or tying to restrict movement or enclosing in a confined space such as a closet, locked room, box or similar cubicle.

DCF 252.44(2)(c)3 Commentary

See 252.04 (21r) – DEFINITION – PHYSICAL RESTRAINT.
Physical restraint does not include:

Briefly holding a child in order to calm or comfort the child.
Holding a child's hand or arm to escort the child from one area to another.
Moving a disruptive child who is a danger to himself / herself / others and is unwilling to leave the area when other methods such as talking to the child have been unsuccessful.
Intervening or breaking up a fight.
Use of a weighted blanket or vest that a child is able to remove him/herself whenever the child chooses.

If a child has an outburst that puts him/herself or another person in danger of harm, the camp has the responsibility to protect the child and others from danger. Once a child has an outburst, it is recommended that the camp work with the parents to develop a plan to help manage the child’s behavior in a way that does not include the use of a physical restraint. The camp may want to refer the family to their pediatrician, the public schools, or a mental health professional for an evaluation.
In limited circumstances, an exception for the use of a physical restraint of an individual child may be considered if the child has had an evaluation that resulted in an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individual Educational Plan (IEP). The following conditions must be met:
The IFSP or IEP indicates the use of a physical restraint as one part of a plan to help the child learn to manage his / her behaviors.

The center identifies a person(s) who will be assigned the responsibility of implementing the restraint.
The person assigned to implement the restraint receives appropriate training in use of a restraint.
The center documents the use of the restraint and the situation leading to the use of the restraint.
The center notifies the child’s parent of the physical restraint and the situation leading to the use of the restraint.
A copy of the documentation related to a restraint is submitted to the department within 24 hours of the use of the restraint.
A copy of the IFSP or IEP shall be available to staff working with the child.

The exception is reviewed and re-approved periodically (recommended every 3 – 4 months).

4. Withholding or forcing meals, snacks or naps.

5. Actions that are aversive, cruel, frightening or humiliating.

(d) Children shall not be punished for lapses in toilet training.

(3) Equipment and furnishings

(a) The camp shall provide program equipment and furnishings in a variety and quantity that allows staff to implement activities outlined in the written policy on program objectives and activities required under s. DCF 252.41 (1) (f) 5. and meets all of the following criteria:

1. Provides for large muscle development.

2. Provides construction activities and for the development of manipulative skills.

3. Encourages social interaction.

4. Provides intellectual stimulation.

5. Encourages creative expression.

(b) All equipment and furnishings, whether or not owned by the camp, shall be:

1. Scaled to the developmental level, size and ability of the children.

2. Safe, durable, of sturdy construction with no sharp, rough, loose, protruding, pinching or pointed edges, or areas of entrapment, in good operating condition, and anchored when necessary.

DCF 252.44(3)(b)2 Commentary

Examples of unsafe play equipment include, but are not limited to:
• Metal toys with sharp edges.

Playground equipment that has loose boards or other parts, splitting wood, etc.
Hard plastic toys which have broken sharp edges.
Equipment with protruding screws.
Swing sets with chains that are rusting through.
Permanently installed outdoor equipment that is not safely anchored.

3. Placed to avoid danger of accident and collision and to permit freedom of action.

4. Used in accordance with all manufacturer’s instructions and any manufacturer’s recommendations that may affect the safety of children in care.

DCF 252.44(3)(c) Commentary: Examples of equipment and materials that reflect cultural and ethnic diversity include multi-cultural dolls, puzzles and other toys, books, pictures, posters, and music that reflect varying cultures, and exposure to foods from different cultures and ethnic groups.

(d) No trampolines or inflatable bounce surfaces on the premises may be accessible to children or used by children in care.

DCF 252.44(3)(d) Commentary: Inflatable chairs or inflatable items not intended for bouncing, such as inflatable slides, may be used. Care should be taken to ensure that children are properly supervised and the item is being used according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

(4) Rest

When a session is more than 4 hours in length, there shall be a rest period or period of quiet activities of at least 30 minutes for all children under 5 years of age.

DCF 252.44(4) Commentary: Cots, sleeping bags, or mats are not required.

(5) Meals, snacks, and food service

(a) Food shall be provided in accordance with Table DCF 252.44 which is based on the amount of time children are present. Food may be served at flexible intervals, but no child may go without nourishment for longer than 3 hours.

Table 252.44 Meal and snack requirements for each child at a day camp.

Time children are present	Number of meals and snacks
2 ½ to 4 hours	1 snack
4 to 8 hours	1 snack and 1 meal
8 to 10 hours	2 snacks and 1 meal
10 hours or more	2 meals and 2 or 3 snacks

DCF 252.44(5)(a) Commentary: The 3-hour determination is from the beginning of a snack or meal to the beginning of the next snack or meal.

It is recommended that staff document if and when a child refuses food by their own choice and goes more than 3 hours without eating.

(b) Camp-provided transportation time shall be included in determining the total number of hours a child is present for the purpose of par. (a).

(c) Food allergies of specific children shall be reported to cooks, counselors and substitutes having direct contact with children.

(d) Menus for meals and snacks provided by the camp shall:

1. Be posted in the kitchen and in a conspicuous place accessible to parents.

2. Be planned at least one week in advance, dated and kept on file for 3 months.

3. Be available for review by the department.

4. Include diverse types of food.

DCF 252.44(5)(d)4 Commentary: A diverse menu means a menu that is not be repeated within a one-week time frame.
If the provider changes items on the meal plan, those changes must be documented on the meal record no later than the end of the meal.

(e) At a minimum, each meal and snack provided to children shall meet the U.S. department of agriculture child and adult care food program minimum meal requirements for amounts and types of food. Additional portions of vegetables, fruits, bread, and milk shall be available.
Note: The USDA meal program requirements may be found on USDA CACFP.

DCF 252.44(5)(d)4 Commentary: According to the minimum meal requirements specified by the USDA, milk served to children must be 1% or fat-free (skim) milk. Only 100% fruit or vegetable juice may be served to meet USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program requirements for a fruit or vegetable serving. Other beverages, such as water, may be served in addition to the required components.

The amounts indicated on the CACFP minimum meal requirements are used for determining amounts of food that must be prepared and are not considered “helpings." It is recommended that small portions of all food items be served.

If meals are served pre-plated, all the required food items and amounts of food must be served to the child at the same time. For example, a 4-year-old child must receive at a minimum on his/her plate for a noon meal the following: 1 ½ oz. meat/meat alternate; a total of ½ cup of at least 2 different fruit/vegetable items (e.g., ¼ cup peaches and ¼ cup mashed potatoes); ½ slice bread; and ¾ cup milk. The milk must be served with the meal and may not be withheld.

If meals are served family style all the required food item amounts must be made available. For example, there are ten 4-year-old children present which requires a total of 2 ½ cups each of two types of fruit/vegetable. The menu has broccoli so at a minimum there should be 2 ½ cups cooked broccoli available. Since the children may not consume the entire 2 ½ cups, the center may bring 2 cups to the dining area and keep the remaining ½ cup cooked broccoli in the kitchen in case the children want it. Milk must be served with the meal and may not be withheld.

(f) When food for a child is provided by the child’s parent, the camp shall provide the parent with information about requirements for food groups and quantities specified by the U.S. department of agriculture child and adult care food program minimum meal requirements.

(g) A special diet, based on a medical condition, excluding food allergies, but including nutrient concentrates and supplements, may be served only upon written instruction of a child’s physician and upon request of the parent. A special diet based on a food allergy may be served upon the written request of the parent.

DCF 252.44(5)(g) Commentary: Examples of special diets are food delivered by feeding tubes, diabetic, gluten free, etc. Pediasure or Ensure may be used as part of a special diet.

(6) Health

(a) Observation. Each child upon arrival at the camp shall be observed by a staff person for symptoms of illness. For an apparently ill child, the procedure under par. (c) shall be followed.

(b) Health supervision. There shall be an adult at the camp at all times who is responsible for health supervision. The on-site health supervisor shall be one of the following:

1. A physician licensed in Wisconsin.

2. A registered nurse or practical nurse licensed in Wisconsin.

3. A physician assistant licensed in Wisconsin.

4. An emergency medical technician.

5. A person currently certified as having completed the American Red Cross Standard First Aid course or equivalent.

DCF 252.44(6)(b)5 Commentary: If more than one person is present who meets the requirements for a health supervisor, the camp needs to identify one person as the health supervisor. The specific responsibilities of the health supervisor should be identified in the job description. The health supervisor may be counted in counselor-to-child ratios.

(bm) If a public or private rescue or emergency vehicle cannot arrive at the camp within 10 minutes of a phone call, a person who is certified by the department as a first responder under ch. DHS 110 must be on the premises during the hours when children are present. This person may serve as the camp health supervisor.

DCF 252.44(6)(bm) Commentary: A card indicating that a person is certified as a First Responder by the WI Department of Health Services is required to document compliance with this rule.

1. There shall be an isolation or first aid area for the care of children who become ill. If the area is not a separate room, it shall be separated from space used by other children by a partition, screen or other means.

DCF 252.44(6)(c)1 Commentary: It is recommended that a camp have a cot or mat available for a child who becomes ill during the camp day and that the camp cleans and disinfects that surface after use.

2. When an apparently ill child is observed in the day camp, the following procedures shall apply:

a. A child with symptoms of illness or a condition such as vomiting or diarrhea, shall be isolated and shall be made comfortable, with a place to lie down available, with a staff member within the sight or hearing of the child. Isolation shall be used until the child can be removed from the camp.

DCF 252.44(6)(c)2.a. Commentary: Examples of illnesses or conditions that may affect the health of other persons and would require a child to be sent home until medical evaluation allows inclusion include fever associated with other symptoms, persistent crying, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or other unusual signs.

See Appendix D Resources List, Communicable Diseases Chart. The center’s health policy should specify which symptoms would require removal of the child from the facility.

b. The child’s parent, or a designated responsible person when parents cannot be reached, shall be contacted as soon as possible after the illness is discovered to take the child from the camp.

(d) Communicable disease.

1. No child or any other person with a reportable communicable disease specified in ch. DHS 145 may be admitted or readmitted to a camp, be permitted to remain in a camp, or be permitted to have contact with children in care during the period when the disease is communicable.

3. A person in contact with children or a child may be allowed to return to a camp if the person’s physician provides a written statement that the condition is no longer contagious or the person has been absent for a period of time equal to the longest usual incubation period of the disease as specified by the department.
Note: The Division of Public Health in the Department of Health Services has developed materials that identify those communicable diseases that are required to be reported to the local public health officer. These materials also provide information on the symptoms of each disease and guidance on how long an infected child must be excluded from the camp. Copies of the communicable disease chart are available from the Department of Health Services website at Wisconsin Childhood Communicable Diseases.

(e) Medication.

1. Camp staff may give prescription and non-prescription medication to a child only under the following conditions:

DCF 252.44(6)(e)1 Commentary: These rules allow prescription and non-prescription medication to be administered by the camp under controlled circumstances as specified. The camp health policy may be more stringent than the rule, allowing no medication or only prescription medication. It is recommended that the medication administration procedures be included in information that is shared with parents upon admission. A written authorization from the parent is required to be on-site for each request that medication be administered. The camp should ensure that any requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act are met.

Any over-the-counter topical, non-medicated lotion, cream, lip balm, or salve preparation may be applied to children upon authorization from the parent. The application information for non-medicated topical preparations does not need to be recorded in the center medical log.

a. A signed, dated, written authorization that includes the child’s name and birthdate, name of the medication, administration instructions, medication intervals, and the length of the authorization from the parent is on file. Blanket authorizations that exceed the length of time specified on the label are prohibited.
Note: The department’s form, Authorization to Administer Medication, or the provider’s own form may be used to obtain the parent’s authorization to administer medication. Information on how to obtain the form is available at Wisconsin Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or from any of the regional licensing offices in Appendix A.

DCF 252.44(6)(e)1.a. Commentary: Commentary: It is acceptable to keep the original authorization with the medication and a copy of the authorization in the child’s file or vice versa.

It is recommended that medication authorization forms should be kept with the medication during the administration period and maintained in the child’s file once the administration period has passed.

Authorizations that exceed the period of time specified on the label are permitted if authorized or prescribed by a physician.

b. The medication is in the original container and labeled with the child’s name, and the label includes the dosage and directions for administering.

DCF 252.44(6)(e)1.b. Commentary: The rule requires that the dosage instructions must be included on the medication label. For some types of over the counter medications, such as Tylenol or cold syrup, the label instructions indicate that a physician should be consulted for children under a certain age (typically under age 2).

The Authorization to Administer Medication form includes a statement to be initialed by the child’s parent indicating the child’s physician has been consulted and the dosage instructions are consistent with the physician’s recommendation. A parent’s authorization may not exceed the time specified on the label of the medication.

A medication past its expiration date as indicated on the label may not be administered to a child. It is recommended that medications kept on hand for chronic conditions, such as asthma inhalers, allergy epinephrine auto-injectors, seizure medications, etc., be reviewed periodically for expiration dates.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that over-the-counter multi-symptom cold products not be used for children under the age of 4 years.

2. All medications shall be stored so that they are not accessible to the children.

3. Medications shall be stored at the appropriate temperature as indicated on the label.

3m. All medication for a child in care shall be administered by the camp as directed on the label and as authorized by the parent.

4. No medication may be kept at the camp without a current authorization from the parent.

DCF 252.44(6)(e)4 Commentary: Leftover medication or medication past its expiration date should be returned to the parent or discarded in a safe manner after the duration of the illness.

5. Bee sting medication, inhalers, an insulin syringe, or other medication or device used in the event of a life-threatening situation may be carried by a child over the age of 7 years with written authorization from the parent and the child’s physician.

DCF 252.44(6)(e)5 Commentary: If the camp allows a child over the age of 7 years to carry medication or a device to assist in a life-threatening event and the child self-administers that medication, the camp health policy should address how the counselor assigned to that child will be made aware that the child self-administered the medication and that the administration is recorded in the medical log book.

(f) Injury. Written procedures for the treatment of children who are in accidents or otherwise injured shall be available, made known to staff, and carried out as follows:

1. Written permission from the parent to call a child’s physician or refer the child for medical care in case of injury shall be on file at the camp. The camp shall contact the parent as soon as possible after an emergency has occurred or, if the injury is minor, when the parent picks up the child.
Note: The camp may use the department’s form, Child Care Enrollment, or its own form for obtaining medical consent from the parent. Information on how to obtain the form is available at Wisconsin Department of Children and Families - Forms Search on the department's website, or from any of the regional licensing offices in Appendix A.F

2. Prior to the opening of camp, a planned source of emergency medical care, such as a hospital emergency room, clinic, or other constantly staffed medical facility, shall be designated and made known to staff and parents.

DCF 252.44(6)(f)2 Commentary: Parents may be made aware of the planned source of emergency care through a statement in camp policies or handbook or it may be posted in a visible place in the camp.

3. A camp shall establish and follow written procedures for treating minor injuries and for taking a child to an emergency medical care facility.

4. First aid equipment shall be available at a designated location at the base camp.

5. Standard first aid procedures shall be followed for injuries.

DCF 252.44(6)(f)5 Commentary: Follow standard first-aid procedures for slivers and ticks.

It is recommended that a reputable children's first aid manual or chart be readily available at the camp for use by staff.

See Appendix D Resources List, Situations That Require Medical Attention Right Away.

6. Superficial wounds may be cleaned with soap and water only and protected.

DCF 252.44(6)(f)6 Commentary: No medication (including anti-bacterial creams or ointments) may be applied or administered to the child by the camp for injuries since the administering of non-prescriptive medication must be at specific parent direction for each incident.

7. Suspected poisoning shall be treated only after consultation with a poison control center.

DCF 252.44(6)(f)7 Commentary: Statewide Poison Control toll free number is (800) 222-1222. Calling 911 does not automatically connect the caller with poison control.

Activated charcoal or any other vomit-inducing substance may only be used if advised by the poison control center.

See Appendix D Resources List, Common Plants – What’s Poisonous and What’s Not?

(g) Medical Log.

1. The licensee shall maintain a medical log book that has a stitched binding with pages that are lined and numbered.

2. Pages may not be removed from the medical log under subd. 1. and lines may not be skipped. Each entry in the log book shall be in ink, dated, and signed or initialed by the person making the entry.

3. A provider shall record all of the following in the medical log under subd. 1.:

a. Any evidence of unusual bruises, contusions, lacerations, or burns seen on a child, regardless of whether received in or out of the care of the camp.

b. Any injuries received by a child while in the care of the camp on the date the injury occurred. The record shall include the child’s name, the date and time of the injury, and a brief description of the facts surrounding the injury.

DCF 252.44(6)(g)3.b. Commentary: See DCF 252.07 (2) (c) – ACCESS TO RECORDS & REPORTS – PARENTS. The medical log is confidential because it contains individual medical information. Parents may see entries relating to their child only; therefore, it is recommended that each entry contain only one child’s name. If more than one child is involved in an accident and sustains an injury, 2 separate entries should be made in the log.

Not every injury will be apparent immediately. It is recommended to record every accident / incident. For example, a child bumps his head and no mark or bump is readily apparent, but there is the potential for a mark, bump, or bruise to develop. This should be recorded.
In addition to providing accountability to the parents and the department, bound books and recordings as specified may be admissible in court as evidence in case of a civil suit. The log should be kept as long as the camp is in operation.

See Appendix D Resources List, Center Medication and Injury Log – Directions for Use.

c. Any medication dispensed to a child, on the date the medication is dispensed. The record shall include the name of the child, type of medication given, dosage, time, date, and the initials or signature of the person administering the medication.

d. Any incident or accident that occurs when the child is in the care of the center that results in professional medical evaluation.

DCF 252.44(6)(g)3.d. Commentary: A “professional medical evaluation” is defined as a medical assessment by a medical professional acting within their licensed capacity, such as a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse, Emergency Medical Services (EMTs, paramedics, etc.), and dentist, regardless of the outcome of the evaluation.

4. The director or a designee shall review records of injuries with staff monthly during camp operations to ensure that all possible preventive measures are being taken. The reviews shall be documented in the medical logbook under subd. 1.

DCF 252.44(6)(g)4 Commentary: It is recommended that the camp review records of injuries monthly during camp season to identify patterns.

(i) Health precautions and personal cleanliness.

1. A child’s hands shall be washed with soap and running water before meals and snacks and after handling animals and toileting or diapering.

DCF 252.44(6)(1)1 Commentary: Washing in a common bucket or pan is allowed after certain activities, such as finger painting, if this preliminary washing is to eliminate excess paint and is followed up by individual handwashing under running water with soap.

2. Persons working with children shall wash their hands with soap and running water before handling food, after assisting with toileting and after wiping bodily secretions from a child.

3. Soap and water-based wet wipes may be used to wash hands when there is no running water immediately available. Disinfecting hand sanitizers may not replace the use of soap and water when washing hands.

4. Cups, eating utensils, toothbrushes, combs and towels may not be shared and shall be kept in a sanitary condition.

5. Children shall be clothed to ensure body warmth and comfort. Wet or soiled clothing and diapers shall be changed promptly from an available supply of clean clothing.

6. There shall be a supply of dry and clean clothing and diapers sufficient to meet the needs of all children at the camp.

7. As appropriate, children shall be protected from sunburn and insect bites with protective clothing, if not protected by sunscreen or insect repellent. Sunscreen and insect repellent may only be applied on the written authorization of the parent. The authorization shall include the ingredient strength of the sunscreen or repellent. If parents provide the sunscreen or insect repellent, the sunscreen or repellent shall be labeled with the child’s name. Children may apply their own sunscreen or insect repellent with written parental authorization. Recording the application of sunscreen or insect repellent is not required.

DCF 252.44(6)(1)7 Commentary: Alternatives to traditional insect repellants (e.g. Skin-so-soft, repellants containing citronella or homeopathic ingredients, etc.) may be used if authorized in writing by the parent.

It is recommended the camp health policy address at what age children can carry and/or apply sunscreen or insect repellent, and the procedure for supervision so that the application is done in a way that will protect the children.

8. Center staff shall follow universal precautions when exposed to blood and blood−containing bodily fluids and injury discharges.

9. Single use disposable gloves shall be worn if there is contact with blood−containing bodily fluids or tissue discharges. Gloves shall be discarded in plastic bags.

(j) Diapering. When children are diapered, the camp counselor shall do all of the following:

1. Consult with the child’s parent to develop a toilet training plan so that a child’s toilet routine is consistent between the camp and the child’s home, if the child is in the process of becoming toilet trained.

2. Change wet or soiled diapers and clothing promptly.

3. Change each child on an easily cleanable surface that is cleaned with soap and water and a disinfectant solution after each use. The disinfectant solution shall be registered with the U.S. environmental protection agency as a disinfectant and have instructions for use as a disinfectant on the label. The solution shall be prepared and applied as indicated on the label.

4. If the diapering surface is above floor level, provide a barrier or restraint to prevent falling. A child may not be left unattended on the diapering surface.

5. Place disposable soiled diapers and gloves, if used, in a plastic-lined, hands-free, covered container immediately.

6. Remove soiled diapers from containers as needed but at least daily for washing or disposal. Containers shall be washed and disinfected daily.

7. Apply lotions, powders or salves to a child during diapering only at the specific written direction of the parent or the child’s physician. The directions shall be posted in the diapering area. The application of diapering lotions, powders or salves is not required to be recorded in the camp medical log.

8. Wash the child’s diaper area before each diapering with a disposable or fabric towel used only once.

(7) Swimming and water activity areas

(a) Definitions. In this subsection, “waterfront” means a pool or beach accessible to or used by children in care.

(am) Swimming area.

1. Pools and other swimming areas used by children shall be located, constructed, equipped and operated according to the requirements of chs. SPS 390 and ATCP 76 for pools and water attractions. A beach shall be in compliance with applicable local ordinances.

2. a. Swimming pools shall be enclosed with a 5 foot fence with a self-closing, self-latching door. Spaces between the vertical posts of the fence shall be 3½ inches or less. In addition, all of the following restrictions apply when the pool is not in use by children.

DCF 252.44(7)(am)2.a. Commentary: Wisconsin Admin. Code SPS 390.18 (4) (f) regarding outdoor pools states that fences serving as barriers shall have no opening greater than 4 inches in width or diameter. No exception is necessary.

b. If access to the pool is through a gate, the gate shall be closed and locked.

c. If access to the pool is through a door, the door shall be closed, visibly locked and equipped with an alarm at the door that signals when someone has entered the pool area. The door may not be used as an exit.

d. Locks shall be located so that the locks cannot be opened by children.

e. The free-standing wall of an above ground pool may not serve as an enclosure unless it is at least 5 feet in height and not climbable. If a ladder is present, the ladder shall be removed or raised up so that it is inaccessible to children.

f. The area around the pool enclosure shall be free of toys or equipment that would allow a child to climb or otherwise gain access to the pool.

3. The swimming area used by a day camp shall have designated areas for non-swimmers, intermediate swimmers, advanced swimmers and divers. A child shall be restricted to the area of the pool or beach that is within the child’s swimming ability.

4. Access to a water activity area or beach shall be controlled so that children may not enter the area without the knowledge of waterfront staff and any area used for swimming shall be clearly marked.

DCF 252.44(7)(am)4 Commentary: See DCF 252.41 (1) (f) 8. – POLICY SUBMITTED & IMPLEMENTED – WATER / WATERFRONT ACTIVITIES. The plan should address situations where children have access to water that is not a pool or beach area, such as a creek or pond on the premises of the camp. The plan should identify whether children will be allowed to use the water for activities, such as fishing, and how children’s access to the water will be addressed by the camp. A waterfront supervisor is not required to be present when children have access to water that is not a pool or beach area.

5. Equipment in water activity areas, including docks, ladders, rafts, diving boards, boats, life jackets, and paddles, shall be maintained and in good repair.

6. Rescue equipment, including a shepherd’s crook type pole, a backboard, ring buoy, and rescue tube shall be maintained and immediately available at each water activity area as specified in s. ATCP 76.26.

(b) Waterfront supervisor.

1. Each day camp offering swimming, boating, canoeing, or other water activities whether at a pool or a beach shall designate a staff person as waterfront supervisor. All water activities, whether on or off the premises, shall be under the direction of the waterfront supervisor or an equally qualified adult who is present at the waterfront during water activities. The waterfront supervisor shall:

DCF 252.44(7)(b)1 Commentary: If a center has multiple water activity areas, there must be an adult who meets the qualifications below and is the designated waterfront supervisor at each water activity area.

a. Be 18 years of age or older; and

b. Hold a current certification as a life-guard from a nationally recognized certifying agency.

1m. If the center uses a pool, beach, or other water attraction that is not located on the center premises and certified lifesaving personnel are on duty, the waterfront supervisor is not required to meet the qualification in subd. 1. b.

2. The camp shall maintain a ratio of one person with a current Red Cross certified lifesaving certificate per 25 children in the water, except where a public swimming place has life-saving personnel on duty. While children are in the water, only staff who can swim may be included when determining counselor-to-child ratios under Table DCF 252.425.

DCF 252.44(7)(b)2 Commentary: The lifesaving certificate may be from a nationally recognized certifying agency.

3. The waterfront supervisor or an equally qualified person shall be on duty at all times whenever children are in the water.

4. The waterfront supervisor shall establish and enforce a method for supervising children in the water such as the buddy system, the colored cap system or another method of supervising children. The supervision plan shall be included in the camp’s written waterfront plan and reviewed during pre-camp training.

5. The waterfront supervisor shall establish and enforce a method for checking persons in and out of the water. The check-in and check-out procedures shall be included in the camp’s written waterfront plan and reviewed during pre-camp training.

5m. The waterfront supervisor shall establish and enforce procedures for ensuring that children who have access to a beach or are engaged in fishing or other shoreline activities are properly supervised.

DCF 252.44(7)(b)5m Commentary: A waterfront supervisor is not required to be present when children have access to water that is not a pool or beach area.

6. The waterfront supervisor or person acting as the waterfront supervisor may not be included when determining counselor-to-child ratios during any period when children are in the water.

1. The swimming ability of each child shall be assessed by either the parent or the camp. Documentation of the assessment shall be kept in the child’s file.

2. Children shall be restricted to swimming areas within their swimming classification.

(d) Boating prohibited in swimming areas. Except in an emergency, no rowboat, canoe, motor boat or other craft, except a lifeboat used by lifeguards, is permitted in a swimming area, pursuant to s. 30.68 (7), Stats.

(8) Boats

(a) In this section, “boat” means every description of watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, including canoes, kayaks, large inner tubes, inflatable boats, paddleboards, and sailboards. Small inflatable toys such as swim rings and air mattresses are not considered “boats” under this definition.

(am) All boats shall comply with ch. NR 5.

(b) Each occupant of a boat shall wear a type I or II coast guard-approved personal flotation device which is appropriate to the weight of the person wearing it as specified in s. 30.62 (3) (a), Stats., and s. NR 5.13.

(c) There shall be at least one adult in each boat who is a competent swimmer as determined by the waterfront supervisor. When children are using single-seat boats, such as kayaks, a counselor who is a competent swimmer and at least 18 years of age shall be close enough to the children to provide assistance if necessary.

(d) Children who have not demonstrated advanced swimming skills shall be limited to the use of the rowboats only.

(e) All boats, oars and paddles shall be in good repair and inspected annually for safety.

(9) Firearms and archery

Firearms and archery equipment may not be used by children under 7 years of age. When firearms and archery equipment are used by children 7 years of age and older, the following precautions shall apply:

(a) The archery or shooting range may be used only under the supervision of a trained adult instructor who holds a certification in bowhunter or hunter safety, respectively.

DCF 252.44(9)(a) Commentary: There is no specific organization that the archery and/or shooting range supervisor must take hunter or bowhunter safety from.
Archery range supervisors may take the USA Archery Instructor certification course to meet this requirement.

(b) Other program activities shall be in an area away from the designated archery or shooting range. The range shall be fenced in with rope or wire and marked with danger signs or flags.

(d) All firearms, archery equipment, and unused ammunition shall be returned to the instructor.

(10) Tools

(a) Power tools shall not be used by children under 7 years of age.

(b) Children under 7 years of age shall not be allowed in areas where power tools are in use.

(11) Horseback riding

(a) This subsection shall apply whether the camp owns, rents, or leases horses.

(b) Children may ride horseback only in a ring or other enclosed area.

(c) The riding tack shall be maintained in good repair to provide maximum safety for children. It shall be appropriate to the age, size, and ability of the rider.

(d) Horseback riding shall be specifically covered by the camp’s liability insurance.

(12) Field trips

(a) Staff shall carry emergency contact information and signed parental permission for the emergency medical care of all children on the field trip.

(b) The counselor-to-child ratio under Table DCF 252.425 shall be maintained, except that the number of adults accompanying children away from the base camp shall be no fewer than 2.

(d) A list of children participating in the field trip shall be maintained by the camp director and a counselor accompanying the children.

(e) Parents shall be notified in advance of the times and location of each field trip.

DCF 252.44(12)(e) Commentary

The options for meeting this rule are:

The Field Trip or Other Activity Notification/Permission – Child Care Centers form or a similar center-created form that will be used for each child on each field trip;

OR
A blanket permission form signed by parents that covers all field trips involving use of a vehicle; and notification to parents of the date, time, and destination of the field trip for each child prior to each trip.

(f) First aid supplies shall be taken on all field trips.

(13) Adventure-based activities

(a) This subsection applies whether the camp owns, rents, or leases equipment used in adventure-based activities. Adventure-based activities include but are not limited to experiences such as ropes or challenge courses, hiking and rock climbing.

(b) The licensee shall ensure that personnel leading and providing training to children are trained and have experience for the type of adventure-based experience they are supervising.

(c) Equipment used in adventure-based activities shall be properly installed, maintained in good condition and working order and appropriate to the size, developmental and ability level of the children using the equipment.

(d) Before a child is permitted to participate in an adventure-based activity, the licensee shall ensure that the child’s medical history does not prohibit participation in the type of activity planned. If there is a question about a child’s ability to participate for medical reasons, the licensee shall not permit participation without the written approval of the child’s physician and written authorization from the child’s parent.

(e) Counselor-to-child ratios shall be adequate to manage and supervise the adventure-based activity based upon the number of children participating and type of activity. At no time, shall the counselor-to-child ratio be less than that specified in Table DCF 252.425.

APPENDIX A: REGIONAL OFFICES OF THE DIVISION OF EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION

The Department of Children and Families licenses child care centers through five Division of Early Care and Education regional offices. Below are addresses and phone numbers of the regional office es and the counties and tribes within each region.

REGIONS

COUNTIES AND TRIBES

Northeastern Regional Office

200 North Jefferson, Suite 411

Green Bay, WI 54301

Gen: 920-785-7811

Fax: 920-785-7869

Counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Marinette, Marquette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Ozaukee, Shawano, Sheboygan, Washington, Waupaca, Waushara, Winnebago

Tribes: Menominee, Oneida, Stockbridge-Munsee, Ho-Chunk

Northern Regional Office

2187 North Stevens Street, Suite C

Rhinelander, WI 54501

Gen: 715-361-7700

Fax: 715-365-2517

Counties: Ashland, Bayfield, Florence, Forest, Iron, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Oneida, Portage, Price, Sawyer, Taylor, Vilas, Wood

Tribes: Bad River, Lac Courte Oreilles, Lac du Flambeau, Red Cliff, Sokaogon, Forest County Potawatomi, Ho-Chunk

Southeastern Regional Office

635 N 26th Street

Milwaukee, WI 53233-1803

Gen: 262-446-7800

Fax: 262-446-7991

Counties: Kenosha, Milwaukee, Racine, Waukesha

Southern Regional Office

201 W. Washington Avenue

P.O. Box 8947

Madison, WI 53708-8947

Gen: 608-422-6765

Fax: 608-422-6766

Counties: Adams, Columbia, Crawford, Dane, Dodge, Grant, Green, Iowa, Jefferson, Juneau, Lafayette, Richland, Rock, Sauk, Walworth

Tribes: Ho-Chunk

Western Regional Office

221 W Madison Street

Eau Claire, WI 54703-0106

Gen: 715-930-1148

Fax: 715-930-1139

Counties: Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, LaCrosse, Monroe, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Rusk, St. Croix, Trempealeau, Vernon, Washburn

Tribes: Ho-Chunk

Visit the Wisconsin State Legislature website to view key statutes related to background checks and the licensing of child care centers.

Chapter DCF 252
Licensing Rules for Day Camps for Children with Commentary

Register March No. 843A4

Licensing rules effective August 1, 2026.

The same statute directs the department to establish rules that must be met for a person to qualify for a license and that protect and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the children in a child care center. Chapter DCF 252 establishes the minimum level of acceptable care that a licensee is to provide to children in a day camp in Wisconsin. DCF 250 is the rule for Family Child Care Centers where care and supervision is provided for between 4 and 8 children under age 7. DCF 251 is the rule governing Group Child Care Centers, where care and supervision is provided to 9 or more children.

This publication may be duplicated. It is available from the department’s licensing rules webpage.

DCF 252.02 Authority and Purpose

(1) Authority
This chapter is promulgated under the authority of s. 48.67, Stats., to establish licensing requirements under s. 48.65, Stats., for day camps for children.

(2) Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to protect and promote the health, safety and welfare of children being cared for in day camps in Wisconsin.

(3) Construction
This chapter shall be liberally construed to effect the objectives in sub. (2).

252.02 Commentary

The exception to the rule may not be implemented until the exception request has been approved by the department.

Failure to comply with the conditions of the exception may result in withdrawal of the exception and/or initiation of other enforcement actions, such as forfeiture or revocation of the license.

DCF 252.03 Included and Excluded Care Arrangements

252.03 Commentary: Commentary: Camps occasionally offering an overnight activity for children enrolled in the camp that occurs on the premises of a licensed day camp may do so if parents are informed that the camp is not licensed during that time period. If the camp wishes to operate during this time as a licensed facility, an exception must be requested. Camps should also check with their insurance company to ensure coverage during this time.
Residential camps are licensed under ATCP 78. A program must be licensed as a residential camp if the children stay overnight for 4 or more consecutive nights.

(1) Group lessons to develop a talent or skill, such as dance or music lessons, social group meetings and activities, and group athletic activities.

(1m) Care and supervision of children in a program, including religious education classes, which operates no more than 4 hours a week.

(2) Care and supervision while the parents are on the premises and are engaged in shopping, recreation or other non-work activities.

(3) Seasonal programs of 10 days or less duration in any 3-month period, including day camps, vacation bible school and holiday child care programs.

(4) Care and supervision in emergency situations.

252.03(4) Commentary: Commentary: “Emergency situation” means a scenario where there is an unforeseen circumstance that poses a significant risk or threat to the safety or wellbeing of individuals involved that requires immediate attention. Examples can include but are not limited to severe weather, national emergency, natural disasters, and security threats.

(5) Care and supervision while the parent is employed on the premises if the parent’s child receives care and supervision for no more than 3 hours a day.

DCF 252.04 Definitions

In this subchapter:

(1r) “Background check request form” means a form prescribed by the department on which a person completes required information for the child care background check under s. 48.686, Stats., and ch. DCF 13.
Note: Form DCF-F-5296, Background Check Request, is available on the department’s website at Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications.

(1g) “Abusive head trauma” means a serious type of head injury, including shaken baby syndrome, that is caused by shaking, throwing, hitting, slamming, or jerking.

(1k) “Administrative authority” means a licensee’s decision-making power regarding the day camp.

(1n) “Assistant counselor” means a counselor who works under the direct supervision of a lead counselor.

(2) “Base camp” means the permanent or temporary premises, public or private, on which the day camp is operated.

252.04(2) Commentary: See DCF 252.43 (1) (a) – BASE CAMP ENVIRONMENT.

252.04(3g) Commentary: Transportation provided by rideshare companies, such as Uber or Lyft, is contracted transportation and therefore is considered to be camp-provided transportation.

(4) “Care” means providing for the safety and the developmental needs of a child in a day camp.

(4m) “Child care background check” means the requirements in s. 48.686, Stats., and ch. DCF 13.

(5) “Complaint” means an allegation that a provision of this chapter or of ch. 48, Stats., has been violated.

(8) “Counselor” or “camp counselor” means a lead counselor or an assistant counselor who works directly with children.

252.04(9) Commentary

See s.48.65., Wis. Stats.
See DCF 252.44 (1) (a) – PLANNED PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES.

(11) “Department” means the Wisconsin department of children and families.

(11m) “Division” means the department’s division of early care and education.

(12) “Emergency” means unforeseen circumstances that require immediate attention.

(13) “Field trip” means any experience a child has away from the premises of the camp while under the care of camp staff whether the child walks or is transported.

(13m) “Fit and qualified” means displaying the capacity to successfully nurture and care for children and may include consideration of any of the following:

(a) Abuse of alcohol or drugs.

(b) A history of a civil or criminal conviction or administrative rule violation that is substantially related to the care of children, as determined under s. DCF 13.05.

(d) A history of civil or criminal offenses or any other actions that demonstrate an inability to manage financial resources or the activities of a camp.

(14) “Group” means a specific number of children who have a regularly assigned counselor responsible for the children’s well-being and meeting the children’s basic needs.

(15) “Hazard” means a potential source of harm that can jeopardize the health, safety or well-being of children in care.

(15g) “Hours of operation” means the hours within the terms of the license during which children are actually in the care of the camp.

252.04(15m) Commentary: Junior counselors or counselors in training are considered in care when parents pay the camp for the child to attend. Junior counselors/counselors in training may assist with activities but may not be responsible for the supervision of children.

Examples of tasks that junior counselors may not do include but are not limited to disciplining children and supervising children alone. Junior counselors are meant for extra support to counselors and should be with a counselor at all times if they work with children.

See DCF 252.09 (7) (a) – CENTER RESPONSIBILITY FOR CHILD DURING TRANSPORTATION.

(16) “Inclement weather” means stormy or severe weather such as any of the following:

252.04(16) Commentary: The air quality index (AQI) is an index for reporting daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted the air around you is and what associated health effects might be a concern. The higher an AQI value is the higher the level of air pollution present and the greater the health concern. For example, children who have asthma may be affected playing outdoors when the index reaches 101 – 150.

See DCF 252.44 (1) (b) 4. – PROVIDE DAILY OUTDOOR PLAY OPPORTUNITIES.

See Appendix D Resources List, Child Care Weather Watch – Wisconsin.

(a) Heavy rain.

(b) Temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

252.04(16)(b) Commentary: The heat index (HI) is an index that combines air temperature and relative humidity in an attempt to determine the human-perceived equivalent temperature – how hot it feels – termed the felt air temperature.

252.04(16)(c) Commentary: Centers should monitor outdoor conditions for their current physical location. This includes weather, air quality, and any regional conditional notices. The Department of Natural Resources website includes an air quality data map designed to help residents stay informed about air quality conditions in real time.

(16g) “Lead counselor” means a counselor who meets the qualifications under s. DCF 252.42 (2) (d).

(16m) “Licensed hours” means the authorized hours specified on the license certificate and letter of transmittal within which the day camp may provide child care services.

252.04(17) Commentary: Commentary: A licensee may also include a Limited Liability Company (LLC)

(18) “Licensing representative” means a department employee responsible for licensing day camps.

252.04(18) Commentary: Commentary: A person monitoring a day camp for purposes of department initiatives (such as child care subsidy) is also considered a licensing representative.

(19) “Parent” means either “parent” as defined in s. 48.02 (13), Stats., or “guardian” as defined in s. 48.02 (8), Stats.

252.04(21) Commentary: (1) An institution is a private school if its education program meets all of the following criteria:
(a) The primary purpose of the program is to provide private or religious-based education.
(b) The program is privately controlled.
(c) The program provides at least 875 hours of instruction each school year.
(d) The program provides a sequentially progressive curriculum of fundamental instruction in reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science and health. The subsection does not require the program to include in its curriculum any concept, topic or practice in conflict with the program’s religious doctrines or to exclude from its curriculum any concept, topic or practice consistent with the program’s religious doctrines.
(e) The program is not operated or instituted for the purpose of avoiding or circumventing the compulsory school attendance requirement under s. 188.15(1)(a) and (am), Wis. Stats.
(f) The pupils in the institution’s educational program, in the ordinary course of events, return annually to the homes of their parents or guardians for not less than 2 months of summer vacation, or the institution is licensed as a child welfare agency under s. 48.60(1), Wis. Stats.

(2) An institution may request the state superintendent to approve the institution’s educational program as a private school. The state superintendent shall base its approval solely on the criteria under sub. (1). s. 118.167, Wis. Stats., Private school determination by state superintendent. If an association that regulates or accredits private education institutions in this state submits an affidavit to the state superintendent attesting that the institution meets or exceeds all of the criteria under s. 118.165 and the state superintendent finds that the institution does meet or exceeds all of the criteria under s. 118.165, the state superintendent shall determine that the institution is a private school. If at any time the state superintendent finds that an institution determined to be a private school under this section no longer meets the criteria under s. 118.165, the state superintendent may withdraw the determination.

(21g) “Pet” means an animal kept for amusement or companionship.

(21r) “Physical restraint” means the use of physical force to restrict the free movement of all or part of a child’s body.

(23) “Premises” means a tract of land on which the camp is located, including all buildings, structures, or shelters on that land.

(23m) “Regularly assigned counselor” means a person who meet the requirements of a counselor under s. DCF 252.42 and who is assigned to a specific group of children.

252.04(24) Commentary: Commentary: See DCF 252.04 (1G) – DEFINITION – ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA.

(28) “Volunteer” means a person who agrees to give time, with or without reimbursement for expenses, to provide transportation or to work in a day camp.

(29) “Waterfront supervisor” means an adult present in a water activity area during times when children are using the water and who meets the requirements under s. DCF 252.44 (7) (b).

DCF 252.05 Licensing Administration

(1) Licensing procedures

(a) A person making an inquiry to the department about obtaining a license to operate a day camp shall be provided with all of the following:

1. A copy of this chapter.

2. Written procedures on how to obtain a day camp license.

2m. A copy of the background check request form.

3. An opportunity to meet with a licensing representative to discuss the materials.

4. The necessary forms if licensing is desired.

(b) An applicant shall submit an application and other materials required for day camp licensure and license continuation on forms provided by the department at least:

1. Sixty days prior to the date proposed for the camp to begin operating.

2. Thirty days prior to the end of the current license continuation period.

DCF 252.05(1)(c) Commentary: The licensee of a camp is required to sign any documents. The licensee may designate another individual to sign on the licensee’s behalf.

1. A clearly defined statement of purpose as it relates to the provision of child care services.

2. A signed statement by the applicant or licensee accepting legal responsibility for complying with this chapter.

4. A signed authorization which permits the department to make whatever investigation it considers necessary for the verification of pertinent application information.

5. A general description of the camp area, geographic location and size of the base camp or the proposed itinerary of field trips if a program will consist primarily of field trips.

7. The name, address, and telephone number of the person to be contacted by the licensing representative for the pre-camp licensing review.

8. A statement from the state laboratory of hygiene or a state approved laboratory indicating that the water from a private well providing drinking water has been tested and found to be safe.

10. For an initial license application, a completed background check request form for the applicant and if the camp will be located in a residence, any household member 10 years of age and above.
Note: The background check request form is used for reporting background information. Information on how to request a background check is available on the Background Check Requirements webpage.

DCF 252.05(1)(c)10 Commentary: The board president of a corporation or all members of a limited liability company (LLC) are considered the licensee for the purposes of a child care background check (CBC). A CBC will be conducted on the board president unless s/he designates another member of the board as the individual who will have the CBC completed on behalf of the corporation. A CBC will be conducted on all members of an LLC unless the operating agreement specifies an individual who will have the CBC completed on behalf of the LLC.

Resident camp employees do not meet the definition of a caregiver and can be excluded as household members. It must be made clear that staff lodging is not considered part of the day camp program and the day camp must have a procedure in place to ensure there is no unsupervised access to children in care.

See Appendix C Chapter DCF 13 Child Care Background Checks and the Child Care Background Check Requirements on the department's website.

11. A statement from the applicant that indicates the camp is in compliance with this chapter.

12. A copy of all the policies required under s. DCF 252.41 (1) (f) and a completed copy of the day camp policy checklist on a form provided by the department.
Note: Information on how to obtain a copy of the form, Policy Checklist — Day Camp, is available on the department’s website Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, or from any of the regional offices in Appendix A.

13. The test results from the water on any beach on the premises of the camp that will be used for waterfront activities by the children in care.

DCF 252.05(1)(c)13 Commentary

The camp must comply with any local ordinances related to the testing of water on a beach.

See DCF 252.44 (7) (a) – DEFINITION – WATERFRONT.

14. A report indicating that any building used primarily for day camp purposes is in compliance with applicable commercial building codes.

DCF 252.05(1)(c)14 Commentary: See DCF 252.43 (1) (d) – BASE CAMP BUILDINGS.

15. Any other materials determined by the department as necessary to complete the department’s licensing investigation.

(d) Upon submission of a complete application, a licensing representative shall conduct an investigation to determine whether the applicant is eligible for a license.

(2) Amendment to license

(3) Terms of license

(a) The number of children under 7 years of age in care of the center at any one time may not exceed the number for which the center is licensed.

252.05(3)(a) Commentary: Licensed capacity may not be exceeded at any time. If a camp over-enrolls based on an absentee rate or has an occasional drop in, the camp must be sure that over-enrollment will not result in the camp being over capacity.

(b) The age of children served may not be younger or older than the age range specified in the terms of the license.

252.05(3)(a) Commentary: Section 48.65, Wis. Stats., requires programs that provide care to 4 or more children under age 7 to be licensed. Camps who serve a mix of children both under and over age 7 must decide whether to license the entire program or only the portion of the program that serves children under age 7. If the camp chooses to license the entire program, the entire program is subject to the licensing rules. If the camp chooses to license only the portion of the program that serves children under age 7, the groups of children under age 7 and the groups of children age 7 and over must have separate spaces and staff.

If children 7 years of age and older are served in the same space with children less than 7 years of age, a license for the actual age range to be served within the licensed capacity is issued. Developmentally appropriate equipment and supplies must be available.

Regulated and non-regulated portions of a day camp may be combined during transportation; however, the appropriate licensing rules must be met during transportation. See DCF 252.09 – TRANSPORTATION.

A license may be granted for the care of children through age 17. If a provider wishes to care for a child above or below the specified age on the license, an exception should be requested or the license should be amended. For example, if a provider who is licensed up to age 12 and wishes to care for one child age 14, the exception or amendment must be approved by the center’s assigned Licensing Specialist. The exception must be granted prior to caring for a child above or below the ages specified on the license; however, a camp may not care for children under age 3.

252.05(3)(c) Commentary: Licensed Hours: Authorized hours specified on the license certificate within which the camp may provide child care services.

Hours of Operation: Hours within the term of the license during which children are actually in the care of the camp.

(4) Additional license

(5) Condition of licensure

(a) The subject of a pending criminal charge if the charge substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

(b) Convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or other offense which substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

(e) The subject of a substantiated finding of misconduct in the department’s nurse aide registry under s. DHS 129.10.

(f) Had a child care center license, day camp license or certification revoked or denied within the last 5 years.

(g) Violated any provision of this chapter or ch. 48, Stats., or fails to meet the minimum requirements of this chapter.

(h) Made false statements or withheld information.

(6) Summary suspension of a license

1. Failure of the licensee to provide environmental protections for the children such as heat, water, electricity or telephone service.

(7) License denial or revocation

1. The subject of a pending criminal charge for an action that substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

2. Convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or other offense that substantially relates to the care of children or activities of the camp.

4. The subject of a substantiated finding of misconduct in the department’s nurse aide registry under s. DHS 129.10.

6. Determined to have had a child care center license, day camp license or certification revoked or denied within the last 5 years.

7. Determined to have violated any provision of this chapter or ch. 48, Stats., or fails to meet the minimum requirements of this chapter.

8. Determined to have made false statements or withheld information.

(8) Effect of notice to revoke or deny a license

(9) Appeal of decision to deny or revoke a license

(10) General conditions for approval of a license

(c) A facility that provides care on a regular basis to 4 or more children under the age of 7 years shall be deemed to be providing care for compensation and shall be licensed.

(d) Prior to receiving a license, an applicant for a license under this chapter shall complete all application forms truthfully and accurately and pay all fees and forfeitures due to the department.

(g) The department may deny or revoke the license if the examination specified under par. (f) gives the department reasonable concern for the care of children.

DCF 252.06 Complaints, Inspections, and Enforcement Actions

(1) Complaints

(2) Inspection

(3) Enforcement action

The department may order any sanction or impose any penalty on a licensee in accordance with s. 48.686, 48.715, or 48.76, Stats.

DCF 252.07 Non-discrimination, Confidentiality, and Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect

(1) Discrimination prohibited

(a) The licensee shall ensure that the day camp does not discriminate in employment against properly qualified individuals in a manner prohibited in ss. 111.31 to 111.395, Stats.

DCF 252.07(1)(b) Commentary: DISCRIMINATION: The DCF Equal Opportunity Office investigates all discrimination complaints that are submitted to DCF by its clients and customers that are based on practices prohibited by relevant state and federal civil rights laws. Contact the DCF Equal Opportunity Office at 608-422-6889 or the US Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights 1-800-368-1019 (voice) or 1-800-537-7697 (TDD) or see the ADA website to file a complaint.

(2) Confidentiality of records

DCF 252.07(2) Commentary: It is recommended that the camp have a policy regarding the use of photos and social or electronic media involving children enrolled at the day camp.

(a) The licensee is responsible for the day camp’s compliance with s. 48.78, Stats., and this subsection.

1. The child’s parent.

2. Any person, business, school, social services provider, medical provider, or other agency or organization if written parental consent has been given.

3. An agency authorized under s. 48.78, Stats., to have access to children’s records.

DCF 252.07(2)(b)3 Commentary: A licensed day camp facility may share confidential information regarding an individual in care to a public school, social welfare or law enforcement agency, or the Department of Children and Families. A social welfare agency is a county department of social or human services, an Indian tribal social services agency or agent, or a licensed child welfare agency under contract with the county department. A law enforcement agency is a sheriff or police department.

“Relative" is defined by s. 28.02(15), stats., as a parent, stepparent, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half brother, half sister, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, first cousin, 2nd cousin, nephew, niece, uncle, aunt, step-uncle, step-aunt, or any person of a preceding generation as denoted by the prefix of grand, great, or great-great, whether by blood, marriage, or legal adoption, or the spouse of any person named in this subsection, even if the marriage is terminated by death or divorce.

(c) If a parent requests a record or report on the parent’s child, the day camp shall make the record or report accessible to the parent.

252.07(2)(c) Commentary: Every parent has a right to their child’s school, medical, and dental records, and any video recordings of their child. The only exception to this rule is if a court specifically orders that a parent does not have access to the records. To prohibit or restrict access, the camp must have a copy of the court order on file at the camp

(d) All records required by the department for licensing purposes shall be made available to licensing representatives upon request.

(3) Reporting child abuse or neglect

252.07(3)(a) Commentary

Licensees, employees, and volunteers are mandated reporters under the law.

A mandated reporter who witnesses or who has reasonable knowledge to suspect that a child has been abused or neglected is required to immediately contact the proper authority (county department of social or health and human services or law enforcement).
The witness or the person who has reasonable knowledge to suspect that a child has been abused or neglected should be the person to make the report.
When in doubt, report the suspected abuse or neglect.
Because child-to-child contact may be determined to be abuse, child-to-child sexual contact must be reported.

(b) The licensee shall ensure that every employee or volunteer who comes in contact with the children at the day camp has received annual pre-camp training in all of the following:

252.07(3)(b) Commentary: The department will no longer accept a review of the brochure “It Shouldn’t Hurt to Be a Child” to meet this requirement.

The department’s online training, “Mandated Reporter Online Training,” may be used to meet this requirement. “Strengthening Families” or “Darkness to Light” (also known as Stewards of Children) training may also be used to meet this requirement.

Training may also be obtained from local child protective services, law enforcement, or other agencies that provide continuing education experiences. Documentation could be a certificate of attendance at a formal training or completing the continuing education form. Training may be counted as continuing education.

The department-approved, entry-level course called Introduction to the Child Care Profession contains training in the identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect and may be used to meet the requirement for 2 years after the completion date of the course. See DCF 252.42 (3) (a) 10. – PRE-CAMP TRAINING – CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT LAWS, REPORTING. This rule requires that a review of child abuse and neglect laws and day camp reporting procedures be included in pre-camp training.

1. Child abuse and neglect laws;

2. Identification of children who have been abused or neglected; and

DCF 252.08 Pets and Other Animals

252.08 (1) Commentary: Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies as documented by a current vaccination certificate. Other immunizations frequently given to dogs and cats are to prevent disease that is not communicable to children. Initial rabies immunization for dogs should be administered by five months of age and within one year after the initial immunization. Initial rabies immunization for cats should be administered at 8 – 12 weeks of age and within one year after initial immunization. Initial rabies immunization for ferrets should be administered at 12 weeks of age. Subsequent immunizations are to be administered at intervals stated on the certificate of vaccination. If no date is specified, a dog shall be vaccinated within three years of the previous vaccination, as specified in s. 95.21 (2), Wis. Stats. Wisconsin law does not allow persons to vaccinate their own animals for rabies.

(2) A pet that is suspected of being ill, or infested with external lice, fleas, ticks, or internal worms shall be inaccessible to children.

252.08 (3) Commentary: See DCF 252.41 (2) (a) – REPORT – INCIDENT OR ACCIDENT and DCF 252.41 (2) (ar) – REPORT – ANIMAL INJURY.

(4) Turtles, skunks, exotic animals, wild animals and poisonous reptiles may not be kept as pets on the premises of the day camp.

(5) Animal pens shall be kept clean.

252.08 (6) Commentary: Examples of aggressive behaviors include showing teeth, growling, hissing, excessive barking, hair standing up on the animal’s back, or tail between their legs.

See DCF 252.44 (6) (i) 1. – PERSONAL CLEANLINESS – CHILD HANDWASHING. Whenever children handle a pet or another animal, they shall wash their hands afterwards with soap and water. If soap and water is not available, the children may use soap and water-based wet wipes or hand sanitizer to clean hands until soap and water is available.

Petting zoos are permitted; however, it is recommended that the camp’s policy indicates what animals/pets are maintained at the camp and that parents are notified in advance of the animal’s presence and which types of animals / pets children will be able to have direct contact with. Example: The children may touch a horse, but not a llama.

(8) No horses or other livestock may be permanently quartered closer than 500 feet from any building in which the day camp is located.

(9) Pets that pose any risk to the children shall be restricted from the areas used by children.

252.08 (9) Commentary: Examples of aggressive behaviors include showing teeth, growling, hissing, excessive barking, hair standing up on the animal’s back, or tail between their legs.

(10) Procedures to be followed when children have contact with animals, other than pets, while in the care of the camp shall be included in the camp’s health policy.

252.08 (10) Commentary

It is recommended that the following items be included in the health policy:

How supervision will be maintained when children interact with animals.
Whether children will touch or handle animals.
How an injury caused by an animal, such as a bite, will be handled.
How sanitation will be maintained, including handwashing when handling animals.

Note: Service animals used by a person with a disability to assist that person are not considered pets under this rule while they are working as a service animal.

DCF 252.09 Transportation

(1) Applicability

252.09(1)(a) Commentary: If a camp contracts (either verbally or in writing) with a bus company or other agency and the driver and vehicle are regulated under ch. Trans 300 Transportation of School Children, the driver and vehicle do not need to meet the requirements under subsections (4) DRIVER and (5) VEHICLE.

Subsection (8) (a) below will be monitored annually for compliance. A written contact between the center and the transportation company is recommended. The licensee is responsible for ensuring that all applicable rules are met.

This rule does not apply when a center contracts for regularly scheduled transportation to and from the local school district school with the local school district bus company. The Alternate Arrival / Release Agreement form may be used to obtain authorization from the parent to have the local school bus company provide the transportation.

See Appendix D Resources List, Instructions for Obtaining Forms – Day Camps for Children.
Transportation provided by rideshare companies, such as Uber or Lyft, is contracted transportation and therefore is considered to be camp-provided transportation.

See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

See DCF 252.41 (4) (c) – CURRENT, ACCURATE DAILY ATTENDANCE RECORD.

1. The licensee owns or leases the vehicle used.

2. The licensee contracts with another individual or organization that owns or leases the vehicle used.

3. Employees, parents, or volunteers are transporting children at the direction, request, or on behalf of the licensee.

(b) The following requirements do not apply to transportation provided in vehicles owned and driven by parents or volunteers who are not counted in the counselor-to-child ratios in Table DCF 252.425:

1. The requirement that a licensee obtain a copy of the driver’s driving record under sub. (4) (c).

2. The requirement to provide evidence that the vehicle is in safe operating condition at 12-month intervals under sub. (5) (b).

3. The requirements related to child care vehicle safety alarms under sub. (8).

(c) The licensee shall document in their policies that transportation provided through a written or verbal contract with another individual or organization meets the requirements of this section.

(2) Permission and emergency information

Before transporting a child, a licensee shall obtain signed permission from the parent for transportation and emergency information for each child. The form shall include the following information:

(a) The purpose of the transportation and the parent or guardian’s permission to transport the child for that purpose.

(b) An address and telephone number where a parent or other adult can be reached in an emergency.

(d) Written consent from the child’s parent or guardian for emergency medical treatment.

252.09(2)(d) Commentary: A copy of the child’s current enrollment form will also contain the information required under this rule.

Note: The licensee may use the department’s form, Child Care Enrollment, to obtain consent of the child’s parent for emergency medical treatment. Information on how to obtain forms is available on the department’s website, Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications.

(3) Required information for each trip

The licensee shall ensure that written documentation of all of the following is maintained at the camp and in any vehicle transporting children while the children are being transported:

(a) A list of the children being transported.

(b) A copy of the completed permission and emergency information form under sub. (2) for each child being transported.

(4) Driver

252.09(4)(a) Commentary: This is in conformity with Wisconsin Statutes 121.555, which prohibits anyone under 18 years old from driving children. No exceptions will be granted.

A person may have a driver’s license card that has not expired but still have the license suspended or revoked. The only way to ensure that a driver’s license has not been suspended or revoked (and is still valid) is through a check of the person’s driving record maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, or by the department of transportation for the person’s state of residence.

See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

252.09(4)(b) Commentary: The department’s form Driver Training Checklist – Child Care Centers may be used for documenting training.

1. The procedure for ensuring that all children are properly restrained in the appropriate child safety seat.

2. The procedure for loading, unloading, and tracking of children being transported.

3. The procedure for evacuating the children from a vehicle in an emergency.

4. Behavior management techniques for use with children being transported.

5. A review of this section and the applicable statutes under s. 347.48, Stats.

6. A review of applicable camp policies.

7. First aid procedures.

8. A review of child abuse and neglect laws and center reporting procedures.

9. Information on any special needs a child being transported may have and the plan for how those needs will be met.

10. A review of the use of the vehicle alarm, if applicable.

11. Any other job responsibilities as determined by the licensee.

a. The seriousness of any accidents or violations.

b. How much time has passed since an accident or violation occurred.

c. The number of accidents or violations.

d. The likelihood that a similar incident will occur.

a. The phone or device is used to call 911.

b. The phone or device is used to communicate with emergency responders.

c. The phone or device is used to communicate with the camp regarding an emergency situation.

2. A navigation device may be used during transportation of children if the device is programmed to a destination when the vehicle is out of traffic and not in operation.

(5) Vehicle

(a) The licensee shall ensure that each vehicle that is used to transport children is all of the following:

1. Registered with the Wisconsin department of transportation or the appropriate authority in another state.

2. Clean, uncluttered, and free of obstruction on the floors, aisles, and seats.

3. In safe operating condition.

(b) At 12-month intervals, the licensee shall provide the department with evidence of a vehicle’s safe operating condition on a form provided by the department.
Note: The department’s form, Vehicle Safety Inspection, is used to record evidence of the vehicle’s safe operating condition. Forms are available on the department’s website, Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications.

252.09(5)(b) Commentary: The Vehicle Safety Inspection form is to be signed by the owner/employee of a bona fide repair business such as garage, auto repair shop or service station. Name of repair business should appear on vehicle inspection form in addition to signature. Signatures of persons not associated with a firm doing repair business with the public will not be acceptable. If inspection report indicates needed repairs, vehicle must be repaired, and inspection form must note the indicated repair or replacement has been completed. See Appendix D Resources List for information on obtaining forms.

New and used vehicles purchased from an authorized dealer with inspection report will be accepted for one year.

The State Patrol conducts safety inspections of school buses and a sticker issued by the inspector will be accepted in place of the Vehicle Safety Inspection form.

If a vehicle used to transport children has been involved in an accident, the department may request evidence that the vehicle is in safe operating condition.

See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

(d) Hired or contracted school buses used to transport children shall be in compliance with ch. Trans 300.

(6) Seat belts and child safety restraints

252.09(6)(a) Commentary

Most child safety seats have an expiration date embossed in plastic on the bottom of the seat. Child safety seats may not be used past their expiration date.

See Appendix D Resources List, Car Safety Seat Information

Note: For further information on child safety restraints, see Child safety seats.

2. Each adult in the vehicle shall be properly restrained by a seat belt in accordance with 347.48, Stats., and ch. Trans 315.

3. Seat belts may not be shared.

(c) Children transported in school buses or vehicles built to school bus standards shall be properly seated according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

252.09(6)(c) Commentary: If a center owns, leases, or contracts for a school bus, seat belts or car safety seats are not required because these vehicles were constructed to carry children without such devices.

For additional information, contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.

(d) Children under 13 years of age who are in the care of the camp may not ride in the front seat of a vehicle.

(7) Vehicle capacity and supervision

252.09(7)(a) Commentary: Children are considered in care as soon as they are picked up by center-provided transportation.
See DCF 252.41 (4) (c) – CURRENT, ACCURATE DAILY ATTENDANCE RECORD. If the camp picks up the children from his / her home or a designated pick-up or drop-off point, the daily attendance record must indicate at the actual time the child was picked up or/and dropped off.

See DCF 252.41 (1) (f) 4. – POLICY SUBMITTED & IMPLEMENTED – ADMISSION. If the camp provides transportation services from home to camp, procedure should address how the camp is to be notified that a child is not attending that day (i.e. sign in the window of the home that child is not attending, prior notification to the center that child not attending, a second adult on the vehicle walks to the door to pick up the child, told at the door that child is not attending, etc.). If the center is not notified that a child will not attend, the parent must be notified if the child does not arrive at the camp as expected.

Note: The form, Transportation Permission - Child Care Centers, may be used to designate an adult to receive a child being transported. Forms are available on the department’s website, Child Care Licensing Forms and Publications.

(b) Children may not be left unattended in a vehicle.

252.09(7)(c) Commentary: When evaluating the need to have an adult supervisor (in addition to the driver) present in the vehicle, the center needs to consider the ability of the child with a disability to evacuate the vehicle with limited additional help from the driver, the number and ages of other children being transported, and whether any children being transported have a behavioral history that might be disruptive during transportation.

(d) The licensee shall develop and implement a procedure to ensure that all children exit the vehicle after being transported to a destination.

(e) No child may be in a vehicle for transport to or from the camp, a field trip, or other camp activity for more than 60 minutes each direction.

(8) Child care vehicle safety alarm

252.09(8) Commentary: This section also applies to hired or contracted school buses. The alarm must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications

(a) A vehicle shall be equipped with a child safety alarm that prompts the driver to inspect the vehicle for children before exiting if all of the following conditions apply:

1. The vehicle is owned or leased by a licensee or a contractor of a licensee.

2. The vehicle has a seating capacity of 6 or more passengers plus the driver. The seating capacity of the vehicle shall be determined by the manufacturer.

3. The vehicle is used to transport children in care.

(b) No person may shut off a child safety alarm unless the driver first inspects the vehicle to ensure that no child is left unattended in the vehicle.

(c) The child safety alarm shall be in good working order each time the vehicle is used for transporting children to or from a center.
Note: Information on the required vehicle safety alarm is available in the “child care licensing/information for providers” section of the department website at Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.

DCF 252.41 Operational Requirements for Day Camps

(1) Administration

The licensee shall do all of the following:

(a) Comply with all laws governing the camp and its operation.

252.41(1)(a) Commentary: WISCONSIN SHARES COMPLIANCE: This rule requires centers to comply with the subsidy requirements found in Ch. 49, Wis. Stats., and DCF 201.

DISCRIMINATION: The DCF Equal Opportunity Office investigates all discrimination complaints that are submitted to DCF by its clients and customers that are based on practices prohibited by relevant state and federal civil rights laws. Contact the DCF Equal Opportunity Office at 608-422-6889 or the US Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights 800-368-1019 (voice) or 1-800-537-7697 (TDD) or see the ADA website.

(b) Comply with all requirements in this chapter.

(bm) Ensure that all information provided to the department is current and accurate.

(br) Comply with all conditions placed on the license.

252.41(1)(c) Commentary: LICENSING PROCEDURES. In circumstances where the Governor’s Council on Migrant Labor operates licensed programs in Wisconsin on a seasonal basis, the person representing the Governor’s Council on Migrant Labor may be considered to be a Wisconsin resident during the period of time that program operates in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin residence address must be provided.

(d) Meet, upon request, with the licensing representative on matters pertaining to licensing.

(e) Provide documentation of insurance coverage by the submission of a certificate of insurance reflecting current dates of coverage for:

252.41(1)(e) Commentary: A licensee must submit proof of insurance coverage to the department prior to a license being issued. An insurance binder has the same intent as a certificate of insurance but may be issued by the insurance company prior to initial licensing and be accepted until the certificate is issued.

An ACORD certificate of insurance is a document summarizing key information about your business insurance policy. The document can be used to prove that the business has general liability insurance coverage and is typically provided by your insurance company. You can request a certificate of general liability insurance from your insurance company.

The department may be listed as a certificate holder so automatic notice will be sent to the department if coverage is canceled by the insurance firm or subsequent coverage is not obtained through failure of the licensee to pay the premiums. If required insurance coverage is not maintained, a non-compliance statement will be issued.

Day camps operated by the University of Wisconsin system are not required to submit certificates of insurance to the department since coverage is provided by statute for programs, employees, and agents.

1. General liability insurance which provides coverage with limits of not less than $25,000 for each person and total limits of $75,000 for each occurrence.

2. Vehicle liability insurance, when transportation is provided, with minimums no less than those specified in s. 121.53, Stats.

252.41(1)(e)2 Commentary: See DCF 252.04 (3g) – DEFINITION – CAMP-PROVIDED TRANSPORTATION.

252.41(1)(e)3 Commentary

Examples of non-owned vehicle transportation are:

Children transported in personal vehicle of employee for field trip, portal-to-portal, or for emergencies.
Children transported in personal vehicles of parents or other persons for field trips.
Children transported in vehicles donated by other agencies, but not owned by the center, such as churches, community groups, or the Red Cross.
Children transported in rideshare vehicles, such as Uber or Lyft.

4. Specific adventure-based activities identified in s. DCF 252.44 (13) when offered as part of the camp program.

(f) Develop, submit to the department, and implement written policies and procedures consistent with this chapter on all of the following subjects:

252.41(1)(f) Commentary: The Policy Checklist – Day Camps is available to assist in writing policies and contains items that are both required and recommended to be included in camp policies. The policy checklist is available on the department’s website https://dcf.wisconsin.gov.

Camps should periodically review their existing policies and procedures to determine whether they conflict with the licensing rules or to determine whether any changes are required to reflect current procedure. Any conflicts must be resolved.

Copies of policy changes must be submitted to the department at the time the policy is changed. Licensees are reminded at continuation that if they have not previously submitted policy changes, they should do so with the continuation materials. The Policy Checklist – Day Camps must be sent to the department at the time the policies are submitted.

It is recommended that policy revisions be dated.
Parent contracts are recommended but not required. If contracts are used, submit a copy with the written policies and procedures.

1. Discharge of enrolled children.

252.41(1)(f)1 Commentary: DISCRIMINATION: The DCF Equal Opportunity Office investigates all discrimination complaints that are submitted to DCF by its clients and customers that are based on practices prohibited by relevant state and federal civil rights laws. Contact the DCF Equal Opportunity Office at 608-422-6889 or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights 1-800-368-1019 (voice) or 1-800-537-7697 (TDD) or see the ADA website to file a complaint.

2. Fee payments and refunds.

252.41(1)(f)2 Commentary: It is recommended that centers utilize a contract that includes the requirements for payment of fees.

Per DCF 201.038 (5) (a), a provider must have a written payment agreement with each parent that receives Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy.

a. The employee has been convicted of a crime.

c. The employee has a governmental finding substantiated against them of abuse or neglect of a child or adult or of misappropriation of a client’s property.

d. When a professional license held by a provider has been denied, revoked, restricted or otherwise limited.

4. Admission, including a procedure to contact a parent if a child is absent from the camp without prior notification from the parent.

5. Program objectives and a description of activities designed to carry out the program objectives.

6. Transportation, if children may be transported to and from the camp or for field trips. The policy shall include a procedure to ensure that no child has been left unattended in a vehicle.

252.41(1)(f)6 Commentary

Commentary: Pursuant to DCF 252.09, at a minimum, the transportation policy must include the following:

Procedure for inspecting vehicle for safety and for ensuring that any required vehicle safety alarm is in operating condition.
Procedure for loading, unloading and tracking children being transported.
Procedure for ensuring the child is released to a responsible adult.
Procedure for tracking children during an emergency.
Behavior management techniques for use with children being transported.
Procedure on the use of a cellular phone or other wireless communication device by the driver.
Procedure for sharing information with the driver on any special needs that a child being transported may have and the plan for how those needs are to be met.

252.41(1)(f)7 Commentary

See DCF 252.04(12) – DEFINITION – EMERGENCY. For more information on emergency plans, see:

Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, Division of Emergency Management .
Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care webpage.
Child Care Information Center or 1-800-362-7353

8. The plan for supervising children during water activities and waterfront activities, including emergency procedures to be carried out if a child participating in water activities cannot be found.

9. The plan for providing pre-camp training to staff.

10. Child guidance, including ways to manage crying, fussing, or distraught children.

11. Health, including procedures to be followed when there is contact with animals.

252.41(1)(f)11 Commentary: Whenever children handle a pet or animal, they shall wash their hands afterwards with soap and water. If soap and running water is not immediately available, soap and water-based wet wipes or hand sanitizer may be used until running water is available.

See DCF 252.44 (6) (e) 5. – AUTHORIZATION FOR CHILD TO CARRY MEDICATION; DCF 252.44 (6) (g) 2. – MEDICAL LOG – REQUIREMENTS; DCF 252.44 (6) (i) 7. – SUNSCREEN, INSECT REPELLENT AUTHORIZATION; and DCF 252.44 (6) (g) 3. b. MEDICAL LOG – INJURIES IN CARE.