For a service with less than 25 children, how often must an Early Childhood Teacher (ECT) be present?

The requirement for Early Childhood Teachers (ECT) to be present in services with fewer than 25 children is based on regulatory guidelines that emphasize the importance of quality interactions and oversight in early childhood settings. In such smaller programs, having an ECT present for at least 20% of the time ensures that there is adequate professional guidance and support for both the educators and the children. This level of presence allows the ECT to facilitate learning experiences, engage with the children, and support the overall educational environment while recognizing that the program may function with various staffing dynamics.

The emphasis on the minimum percentage—20%—highlights a flexible approach that acknowledges the potential for effective educational practices even with limited presence, without compromising the quality of early childhood education. In contrast, higher percentages such as 50%, 75%, or even 100% imply a stricter requirement that may not be necessary or feasible in smaller settings, where operational needs and staff capabilities can vary more widely.