Bill > A05352

This bill directs the Department of Social Services to establish a four-year pilot project to develop licensing guidelines for "outdoor, nature-based child care" programs, which are defined as programs for preschool or school-age children that provide early learning services outdoors for at least four hours daily or 50% of the program time, and use a curriculum focused on nature. The project aims to explore how to license these programs, which emphasize physical fitness, cognitive development, and environmental appreciation, by developing safety protocols for outdoor settings, including inclement weather shelter and emergency access, and requiring additional staff training in outdoor classroom management and risky play. Curriculum standards will focus on navigating natural terrain, identifying flora and fauna, and wilderness first aid. The department will select up to ten pilot locations, prioritizing existing outdoor programs, licensed centers looking to expand, and areas with limited child care options, and will form an advisory group of practitioners to guide the process. The department is required to report on the pilot's implementation and findings to the governor and legislature.

Budget and Finance, Education, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5352