What is the minimum space that must be maintained around individual sleeping areas for children?

The minimum space that must be maintained around individual sleeping areas for children is crucial for ensuring safety and comfort. Maintaining an 18-inch space allows for adequate room between sleeping areas, which helps to reduce the risk of children accidentally disturbing one another while sleeping. It also provides sufficient space for caregivers to attend to the children, ensuring that they can easily monitor and access each child if needed. This spacing requirement is designed to promote a safe environment where children can sleep peacefully without the risk of conflicts or disruptions that can arise from closer sleeping arrangements.