Bill > S06550

This bill establishes a pilot program for outdoor, nature-based child care, defining it as a program for preschool or school-age children that provides early learning services outdoors for at least four hours daily or 50% of the program time, and uses a curriculum focused on nature. The Office of Children and Family Services, referred to as "the department," will create licensing guidelines for these programs within one year of the bill's effective date, with the pilot project lasting four years. The department will also develop rules and curriculum standards, potentially adapting existing licensing requirements, to ensure safety during inclement weather, provide emergency building access, address outdoor hazards, and mandate additional staff training in outdoor classroom management, behavior, and risk assessment, along with curriculum standards for navigating natural terrain, identifying plants and animals, and wilderness first aid. Up to ten pilot locations will be selected, prioritizing existing nature-based programs, licensed providers expanding into this area, and underserved communities, with an advisory group of practitioners to guide implementation. The department will report on the pilot's progress and findings, with any implementation contingent on legislative appropriations.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6550