We recommend Virginia adopt this language, which is close to what is recommended by NAEYC (https://www.naeyc.org/.../supervision_in_naeyc_accredited...): “(1) For preschool children staff must supervise by sight and sound most of the time. Supervision by sound alone is also permissible for short intervals, under five minutes, as long as staff check on children who are out of sight and children are always in a safe area” (any details needed on what a safe area is could be below). “(2) For school-age children doing tasks in a safe environment, they may be out of sight and sound supervision for up to ten minutes provided staff are nearby so they can provide immediate intervention if needed” (any other details could be added). This language would allow educators to scaffold the learning of young children so they can build competency in a safe environment. For preschoolers this is a school readiness skill. For school age children my proposed language would be consistent with how they are treated in other settings, in which they can go to the nurse’s office or a hallway bathroom.

The language in 781-260 is rediculously restrictive. Safety doesn't need to be compromised to have reasonable expectations for teachers and children.