There are over 6.8 million people in America that use some type of assistive device to help them with mobility. Out of this group, 1.7 of them are in wheelchairs. This amount includes children, and parents of these children may have a hard time finding a daycare that is equipped for wheelchairs. Below are four tips to help you get everything set up properly.
Toys
Secure things like wood blocks, mixing bowls, paper, etc., onto the tables so they will remain in place when the child hammers, stirs, paints, or draws. You can use tape to secure these things, or you can use a hook and loop fastener for each item. Make sure the children can fit their wheelchair under all tables, and able to comfortably reach everything.
Bathroom
The bathroom you provide for the children in wheelchairs must follow specifications set by the ADA. There must be grab bars that have a smooth surface and fully anchored. The diameter of the bar has to be between 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches, and must be between 34 and 38 inches from the ground.
There are also toilet specifications. The toilet center line has to be between 16 and 18 inches from the wall, and there must be at least 60 inches of space to allow the wheelchair to turn properly. There must be a 30 inch by 48 inch access to the bathroom sink.
Entrance to Your Home
To make it much easier for parents to bring the children into your home, you should install a wheelchair ramp for them. Before you start building a ramp, you should learn the stipulations put in place by the American Disabilities Act (ADA)
The width of the ramp has to be a minimum of 36 inches, and the ramp must have edge protection. The ramp has to have a landing both at the bottom and top that is at least 60 inches long. Handrails must be on both sides of the ramp. Cross slopes have to be less than 1:50, and the ramp surface has to be stable and slip resistant.
Licensing Requirements
Your state has licensing requirement to ensure that your daycare provides a safe and healthy environment for the children. The laws you have to follow depends on the state that you live in. Contact your local Department of Family and Protective Services to find this information.
Making sure you have everything set up correctly for these children will help make your daycare a great place for them to go to each day. For more information about available day care services, contact a company like Cottonwood Montessori.
