State Day Care Licensing

State requirements may vary.

Although some church daycare centers may qualify as license-exempt, it is a good idea to become familiar with the licensing requirements in your state. At the very least, these can serve as a guideline to the minimum acceptable standards of care. Being a licensed center also brings a measure of peace to the parents entrusting their children to your care.

While standards may vary from state-to-state, it is assumed that child safety is the driving principle behind the regulations. Here is a list of general guidelines to consider:

Staffing

  • Age/education qualifications
  • Continuing education needs
  • Specific certification such as CPR, first aid, and the Heimlich maneuver
  • Child-to-caregiver ratios/maximum group size

General Program Requirements

  • Parent access during program hours
  • Balance of active and quiet activities – indoor/outdoor activities
  • Number of emergency exits
  • Emergency drills such as for fire or tornado
  • Equipment and play materials required
  • Daily cleaning/sanitization

Outdoor Play Area

  • Protected play area, including shade from sun
  • Play space must be visible to staff at all times
  • Equipment must be sturdy and in good repair
  • Protective surfaces under play equipment in case of falls

Nutrition and Meals

  • Menus posted
  • Meals and snacks meeting nutritional guidelines
  • Hours of care regulate number of snacks/meals

Napping and Sleeping

  • Hours and bedding dependent on child’s age and hours of care

Physical Space

  • Toileting facilities must be readily accessible to children
  • Hot and cold running water must be provided
  • Hazardous materials must be locked away

Guidance and Discipline

  • Parents must be given a copy of the guidance and discipline policy.
  • The following are prohibited:
  • Corporal punishment
  • Threatened or actual withdrawal of food, rest, or use of the bathroom
  • Abusive or profane language
  • Public or private humiliation
  • Emotional abuse, including shaming, rejecting, terrorizing or isolating a child

This is not an exhaustive list. State-specific requirements may be found at Daycare.com.

Karen Arneson has a degree in Early Childhood Education and Care and has observed in numerous daycare facilities. She also volunteers as Head Teacher/Coordinator of Preschool Ministries at her local church.

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