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8 Child Care Subsidy Provider Handbook program standards SECTION 2 Review health and safety requirements and make sure facilities meet standards. Make sure all staff have completed the required trainings. Build a plan for a smoke-free environment and be aware of the dangers of secondhand smoke, including vaping. Know the signs of child abuse and monitor children in your care. Be sure you understand your obligations as a provider if you find evidence of child abuse and/or neglect. Review best practices related to discipline, create a clear disciplinary plan and communicate this plan to all staff. Review the car seat safety requirements. Be aware of the importance of immunizations and review the CDC’s immunization recommendations. QUICK STEPS DHHS strives to provide the state’s children and families with the highest quality child care services available. As a provider, you know the value of excellent child care and want to do the same. Because payments to child care subsidy providers come from a combination of federal and state funds, providers enrolled with DHHS are required to meet program standards. It is important to review both the general program standards and standards suited to the type of care you provide.