1. (1) A certified ONB program must provide play equipment and materials that are:
   (a) Appropriate to the developmental needs, interests and abilities of the children;
   (b) Sturdy and free of protruding nails or bolts, loose or rusty parts, or paint that contains lead or other toxic materials;
   (c) Have smooth, nonporous surfaces or washable fabric surfaces that are easy to clean and sanitize, or be disposable;
   (d) In good condition; and
   (e) Easily accessible to the children.
   (2)   Certified ONB programs may provide natural materials to children to support the nature-based curriculum that may not be able to meet the requirements of OAR 414-320-0910(1)(c)-(d), for example decomposing logs, leaves, or items in a mud kitchen. Such materials must be nonpoisonous and free of toxins.
   (3) A certified ONB program must offer a quantity and variety of play materials (i.e., toys, books, and games) for each age group that is sufficient to:
   (a) Avoid competition for popular items;
   (b) Provide a variety of choices to each child;
   (c) Provide a balance of:
   (A) Active and quiet activities; and
   (B) Individual and group activities;
   (d) Meet the developmental needs of each group of children; and
   (e) Provide the variety of activities required in OAR 414-320-0520, Activity Plan for All Children, as appropriate.
   (4) A certified ONB program must provide a variety of developmentally appropriate toys, materials and equipment which give children choices such as:
   (a) Discovery of nature;
   (b) Fine motor activities;
   (c) Writing utensils and materials;
   (d) Books;
   (e) Sensory experiences;
   (f) Gross motor activities;
   (g) Music;
   (h) Art;
   (i) Dramatic play; and
   (j) Science and/or exploration.
   (5) A certified ONB program must provide culturally and racially diverse learning opportunities within the ONB program’s curriculum, activities, and materials that represent all children, families, and staff.
   (a) Equipment and materials that support diversity include, but are not limited to:
   (A) Diverse dolls, books, pictures, games, or materials that do not reinforce stereotypes;
   (B) Diverse music from many cultures in children's primary languages; and
   (C) A balance of materials from or related to different ethnic and cultural groups, ages, abilities, family styles, and genders.
   (b) A certified ONB program must actively reflect on the learning opportunities provided in the program to broaden cultural understanding and representation of the cultural backgrounds of the children, families, and staff in the program.

Statutory/Other Authority

ORS 329A.260

Statutes/Other Implemented

ORS 329A.280

History

DELC 2-2025, adopt filed 03/26/2025, effective 07/01/2025