What is the minimum square footage of outdoor play space required per child for half of the facility's population over 1 year?

The correct answer of 45 square feet of outdoor play space per child for half of the facility's population over 1 year is grounded in the established regulations that aim to ensure a safe and adequate environment for children's outdoor activities. This requirement reflects the importance of providing sufficient space for children to engage in physical play, which is vital for their development, promoting physical health, and encouraging social interactions.

Having a minimum space standard helps to prevent overcrowding and allows for diverse play activities, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. The specified amount of 45 square feet strikes a balance between space allocation and effective supervision, making it feasible for staff to monitor children while they play. This standard aligns with best practices in child care settings, ensuring that children have ample room to explore and participate in outdoor play.

In comparison, other options such as 30, 60, or 75 square feet deviate from the established regulations. A requirement of 30 square feet would provide insufficient space, potentially compromising children's ability to play safely. Higher values like 60 or 75 square feet might suggest excessive space per child, which could lead to unnecessary underutilization of the available outdoor area, limiting the capacity of the facility to accommodate children effectively while encouraging vibrant play