Smoking/alcohol/illegal drug policies

Most states require daycare centers to restrict all parents and employees from smoking on the premises (prim-ih-sis). A few states allow smoking outside the building, in areas not designated for children's play. State laws prohibit public inebriation or use of illegal drugs, which extends to public areas such as daycare centers. No employee should work when affected by alcohol consumption or illegal drug use, and centers often have termination policies regarding these acts. When employing a family daycare, these policies may not be formalized, but are important to the safety of the children. Before hiring a childcare provider, ask if cigarettes, alcohol, prescriptive, or illegal drugs are ever in the home to help you determine if this caregiver is right for you.