In this section, we will review the requirements for substitutes and other caregivers, should you choose to use them in your program.
Minnesota Rules, part 9502.0315, subpart 29
"Substitute" means an adult at least 18 years of age who assumes the responsibility of the provider as specified in part 9502.0365, subpart 5.
Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.53, subdivision 1
Notwithstanding Minnesota Rules, part 9502.0365, subpart 5, the use of a substitute caregiver in a licensed family child care program must be limited to a cumulative total of not more than 500 hours annually. The license holder must document the name, dates, and number of hours of the substitute who provided care.
Having a substitute is not a requirement, but you may find it useful to have someone who can cover your program in case you have an appointment or wish to attend a child’s school event, etc. and do not want to close. Some providers may also appreciate having a substitute for a longer period of time, such as for a vacation or to cover a medical leave.
A substitute temporarily fills in for you and works under your license. It is important to select a substitute you trust to run your program in your place. There are requirements that a substitute must meet before working in your program.
Before providing care, all substitutes are required to:
Minnesota Rules, part 9502.0315, subparts 6 and 24
Subpart 6. Caregiver. "Caregiver" means the provider, substitute, helper, or another adult giving care in the residence.
Subpart 24. Provider. "Provider" means the license holder and primary caregiver.
Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.50, subdivision 1a
“Second adult caregiver" means an adult who cares for children in the licensed program along with the license holder for a cumulative total of more than 500 hours annually.
Due to the level of responsibility a second adult caregiver would have in your program, they must meet similar requirements to you as the provider.
Before providing care, all second adult caregivers are required to:
Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.50, subdivision 1a
An adult who cares for children in the licensed program along with the license holder for a cumulative total of not more than 500 hours annually has the same training requirements as a substitute.
Adult caregivers have a more limited role in your program and do not need to meet the same requirements as you do.
Before providing care in your program, an adult caregiver must:
Minnesota Rules, part 9502.0315, subpart 14. "Helper" means a person at least 13 years of age and less than 18 years of age who assists the provider with the care of children.
Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.50, subdivision 1, paragraph (b). Paragraph (b) Helpers who assist with care on a regular basis must complex six hours of training within one year after the date of initial employment.
Helpers are ages 13 through 17. Children younger than age 13 may not be helpers in your program.
Helpers assist providers with things like reading to children, playing with children while they are outside, or helping with crafts; helpers cannot supervise children nor do your work, such as feeding infants or changing diapers. They cannot be left alone to supervise children. A helper is required to:
Helpers who assist with care on a regular basis must complete six hours of training within their first year. They can take training with you or they can take classes at school, such as music, art, physical education, or sign language classes. As long as the training that a helper takes relates to the things they help you with, the hours will apply.
You, as the provider, need to be the primary caregiver for your program. If another person will be helping you in caring for the children, then there are several requirements that you will need to follow. Other caregivers can be:
The training caregivers need to take is based on:
