(1) An individualized diet and feeding schedule shall be provided according to a written plan submitted by the parents or by the child's physician with the knowledge and consent of the parents, guardian or placement agency. A change of diet and schedule shall be noted on each child's daily diet and feeding schedule.

(2) A day's supply of formula or breast milk in nursing bottles or formula requiring no more preparation than dilution with water shall be provided by the parents, unless an alternative agreement is reached between the parents and provider ensuring that the infant's nutritional needs are sufficiently met. Bottles of formula or breast milk shall be clearly labeled with each infant's name and date and immediately refrigerated. After use bottles shall be thoroughly rinsed before returning to the parent at the end of the day. Special dietary foods required by the infant shall be prepared by the parents.

(3) Bottles shall not be propped. Infants too young to sit in high chairs shall be held in a semi-sitting position for all bottle feedings. Children who use a bottle should not be allowed to lie on their backs when drinking from the bottle. Older infants and toddlers shall be fed in safe high chairs or at baby feeding tables. Infants six months of age or over who show a preference for holding their own bottles may do so provided an adult remains in the room and within observation of the infant. Bottles shall be taken from the infant when the child finishes feeding, when the bottle is empty and while the infant is sleeping.

(4) If the parent is unable to bring sufficient or usable formula or breast milk, the facility may use commercially prepared and packaged formulas. Older infants shall be provided suitable foods which encourage freedom in self-feeding. Unused infant food shall be stored in the original container and kept separate from other foodstuffs. Dry cereal, cookies, crackers, breads and similar foods shall be stored in clean, covered containers.

(5) If the container in which the formula was purchased does not include a sanitized bottle and nipple, then transfer of ready-to-feed formula from the bulk container to the bottle and nipple feeding unit must be done in a sanitary manner in the kitchen. Bottles filled on the premises of the facility should be refrigerated immediately if not used and contents discarded if not used within 12 hours.

(6) If bottles and nipples are to be used by the facility, they must be sanitized by boiling for five minutes or more just prior to refilling. Terminal (one-step) sterilization of bottles, nipples and formula is acceptable.