What is required if a mesh-sided crib has a side folded down?

• A. Caregivers never leave a child in a mesh-sided crib with a side folded down.
• B. A side folded down is allowed if a parent approves.
• C. It is acceptable for short periods.
• D. It is allowed only for infants under 6 months.

Answer: (A)

A folded-down mesh side creates a real safety hazard, so the rule is to keep the side up whenever a child is in the crib. When the side is down, gaps and the lower railing height increase the risk of a child falling, getting clothing or limbs caught, or becoming trapped. Because of that, caregivers must never leave a child in a mesh-sided crib with the side folded down. If you need access to the child, you should either remove the child from the crib or raise the side before leaving the area. The safety standard isn’t about parental approval, time limits, or age; it’s about keeping the crib fully guarded at all times.