1. A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

2. B. Terms Defined.

   1. (1) “Department” means the Maryland State Department of Education.

   2. (2) “Hazard” means a source of harm that:

      1. (a) Is not obvious to the child because the potential for injury is hidden; or
      2. (b) Is obvious to the child but is greater than a child can manage to avoid.
   3. (3) “Office” means the Office of Child Care within the Department.
   4. (4) “Operator” means an individual or entity that establishes a pilot under the Program.

   5. (5) “Pilot” means an early learning or child care program:

      1. (a) That is primarily operated outdoors; and
      2. (b) In which children are enrolled on a regular basis for 3 or more hours per day.
   6. (6) “Program” means the Outdoor, Nature-Based Child Care License Pilot Program.
   7. (7) “Risk benefit assessment" means a process used to identify and document hazards and risky play elements associated with childhood outdoor play and make plans to mitigate the risk of injury to children while maintaining developmental benefits for children.
   8. (8) “Risky play” means physical activity and play that is challenging and involves risk of physical injury or getting lost.

Authority: Education Article, §§2-205 and 9.5-1101—9.5-1104, Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: March 3, 2025 (52:4 Md. R. 220)