Childcare CPR & first aid requirements

If you work in childcare in New York — whether at a daycare, preschool, home-based care, or camp — first aid and CPR certification is not optional. It's a licensing requirement, and for good reason: children are among the most vulnerable to choking, allergic reactions, and injuries. Being prepared to respond can mean everything.

What New York requires

New York requires every child day care program to have at least one staff person holding a valid CPR and first aid certificate, appropriate to the ages of the children in care, on the premises during all operating hours, under 18 NYCRR (including Part 418-1 for day care centers). The certificate must be kept on file and available for review, and certification runs on a two-year cycle. Oversight rests with the Office of Children and Family Services, Division of Child Care Services.

Anaphylaxis and medication administration

Under 18 NYCRR 418-1.11, giving medication requires written parental permission and provider instructions, and any child at risk of anaphylaxis needs an individual health care plan and a standing order for emergency epinephrine. All medication must be stored inaccessible to children, and staff must complete OCFS-approved Medication Administration Training, so a child's autoinjector is backed by a written plan and a caregiver formally trained to use it.

How our courses meet these requirements

A recognized, standards-based certification — online theory paired with a hands-on skills check — meets New York’s requirement and keeps your team ready to act.

Don't wait for renewal day

When a child chokes, collapses, or reacts to an allergen, the caregiver in the room has only moments to act, and training is what turns those moments into a life saved. A pediatric certification built on recognized national standards prepares your staff to respond with calm and skill, and gives New York families genuine peace of mind. Keeping current certificates on file also keeps your program plainly license-ready.