Alabama requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (Ala. Admin. Code r. 660-5-26-.01(9) & (19) (Definitions: 'Day Care Center' - day care begins no earlier than 5:00 a.m.; 'Nighttime Center' - nighttime care after 7:00 p.m.); additional after-hours/past-midnight requirements at 660-5-26-.09 (Nighttime Centers); a major change or extension of the basic operating schedule (hours) must be reported under 660-5-26-.08(2)(a)6.).
Maximum group size: No fixed statewide numeric group-size cap; Alabama defines "group size" as determined by the capacity of the room, age of the child, number of staff, and amount of equipment, and instead enforces staff-child ratios: 1:5 for 0 up to 18 months, 1:7 for 18 months up to 2.5 years, 1:8 for 24 up to 36 months, 1:11 for 2.5 up to 4 years, 1:18 for 4 years up to school age, 1:21 school age up to 8 years, and 1:22 for 8 years and older, per the DHR Minimum Standards for Day Care Centers (Ala. Admin. Code ch. 660-5-26). Children younger than age 2.5 years must be grouped separately from children older than 2.5 years.
- 0 up to 18 months
- 1:5
- 18 months up to 2.5 years
- 1:7
- 24 months up to 36 months
- 1:8
- 2.5 years up to 4 years
- 1:11
- 4 years up to school age
- 1:18
- School age up to 8 years
- 1:21
- 8 years and older
- 1:22
Alaska requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (Alaska Admin. Code tit. 7, § 57.505).
Maximum group size: In a child care center, maximum group size at any one time may not exceed twice the maximum number of children allowed per caregiver under the child-to-caregiver ratio, yielding maximum group sizes by age band of: infants through 18 months = 10; toddlers 19-36 months = 12; preschool (3-4 yrs) = 20; kindergarten (5-6 yrs) = 28; school age (7-12 yrs) = 36 (7 AAC 57.510(e), applying the per-caregiver ratios of 5/6/10/14/18 in 7 AAC 57.505(c)).
- Infants — through 18 months
- 10 children : 2 caregivers (1:5) in a child care center (7 AAC 57.505)
- Toddlers — 19 through 36 months
- 12 children : 2 caregivers (1:6) (7 AAC 57.505)
- Preschool — 3 and 4 years
- 20 children : 2 caregivers (1:10) (7 AAC 57.505)
- Kindergarten — 5 and 6 years
- 28 children : 2 caregivers (1:14) (7 AAC 57.505)
- School age — 7 through 12 years
- 36 children : 2 caregivers (1:18) (7 AAC 57.505)
- Family child care home
- One caregiver may care for not more than 8 children younger than 13 (incl. caregiver's own under 13); of the total, not more than 3 younger than 30 months and not more than 2 nonambulatory (7 AAC 57.505)
- Group child care home
- At least 2 caregivers for not more than 12 children younger than 13; of the total, not more than 5 younger than 30 months and not more than 4 nonambulatory (one caregiver permitted if 8 or fewer children with the same under-30-months/nonambulatory limits) (7 AAC 57.505)
Arizona requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (Ariz. Admin. Code § R9-5-404).
Maximum group size: No statewide maximum group-size cap: Arizona child care center rules establish minimum staff-to-children ratios by age (1:5 for infants, 1:6 for 1-year-olds, 1:8 for 2-year-olds, 1:13 for 3-year-olds, 1:15 for 4-year-olds, and 1:20 for 5-year-old not school-age and school-age children) but do not impose a separate maximum group-size limit (Ariz. Admin. Code R9-5-404, Supp. 25-2).
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:5
- Toddler (12-24 months)
- 1:6
- Toddler (24-36 months)
- 1:8
- Preschool (3 years)
- 1:13
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:15
Arkansas requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (20 CAR § 1025-401).
Maximum group size: For child care CENTERS, group size shall be limited to two (2) times the number of children allowed with one (1) staff member (e.g., 10 for birth-18 months at 1:5, 16 for 18-36 months at 1:8, 30 for 4-year-olds at 1:15), excluding periodic or special group activities and structures licensed before November 1, 2002 (Child Care Center MLR 301.13, with ratios per 301.2). Licensed Child Care Family Homes have no separate group-size cap distinct from their overall capacity and ratio limits.
- Birth – 18 months (infants)
- 1:5
- 18 months – 36 months (toddlers)
- 1:8
- 2½ – 3 years
- 1:12
- 4 years
- 1:15
- 5 years to Kindergarten
- 1:18
- Kindergarten and above (school age)
- 1:18 (also 1:18 for transporting children kindergarten and above only; driver may be counted)
California requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Cal. Code Regs. tit. 22 § 101216.3).
Maximum group size: California does not impose a general statewide maximum group-size cap for child care centers separate from staff-to-child ratios; the principal group-size limit is in the infant/toddler care component, where a maximum of 12 infants may be in a room (one fully-qualified teacher plus aides each supervising no more than 4 infants, a 1:4 infant ratio) and a toddler group is likewise capped at 12 (Cal. Code Regs. tit. 22 § 101216.3).
- Infant (0-24 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (24-36 months)
- 1:6
- Preschool (3-5 years)
- 1:12
- School Age (6+ years)
- 1:14
Colorado requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (8 CCR 1402-1-2.217).
Maximum group size: Colorado sets statewide maximum group sizes for child care centers by age band: 10 for ages 6 weeks-18 months; 10 for 12-36 months; 14 for 24-36 months; 16 for 2 1/2-3 years; 20 for 3-4 years; 24 for 4-5 years; and 30 for 5 years and older (8 CCR 1402-1, Section 2.217 REQUIRED STAFF AND SUPERVISION). [Could not verify against Colorado .gov source a separate group-size maximum of 20 for a mixed-age 2 1/2-6 years group; the verified Section 2.217 table lists only the seven single-band figures above, and for mixed preschool groups the youngest child's maximum applies when more than 20% of the group is younger children.]
- Infants (6 weeks to 18 months)
- 1:5 (max group size 10)
- Toddlers (12 months to 36 months)
- 1:5 (max group size 10)
- Toddlers (24 months to 36 months)
- 1:7 (max group size 14)
- 2-1/2 years to 3 years
- 1:8 (max group size 16)
- 3 years to 4 years
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- 4 years to 5 years
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- 5 years and older
- 1:15 (max group size 30)
- Mixed age group 2-1/2 to 6 years
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- Formal kindergarten class session
- 1:25 during class session; 1:15 at other times of the day
Connecticut requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Regs. Conn. State Agencies § 19a-79-4a).
Maximum group size: For child care centers and group child care homes the overall group size shall not exceed twenty (20) children, per Conn. Agencies Regs. 19a-79-4a (group-size subdivision); under the infant/toddler (under-three) endorsement the group size shall not exceed eight (8) children for children under two years of age and shall not exceed ten (10) children for two-year-olds, per Conn. Agencies Regs. 19a-79-10. Family child care homes have no separate group-size cap beyond their licensed capacity.
- Infants and toddlers (under 2 years; under three endorsement, RCSA 19a-79-10)
- 1:4 (group size max 8)
- Two-year-olds (under three endorsement, RCSA 19a-79-10; effective Oct 16, 2024)
- 1:5 (group size max 10)
- Preschool (3 years to school age, RCSA 19a-79-4a)
- 1:10 (group size max 20)
- School-age (school age children endorsement, RCSA 19a-79-11)
- 1:15 (group size max 30)
Delaware requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (14 Del. Admin. Code § 933-IV-27.0).
Maximum group size: Delaware sets center maximum group sizes by age band distinct from ratio: infant (under 12 months) 8, young toddler (12-23 months) 12, older toddler (24-35 months) 16, young preschool/3-year-old (36-47 months) 20, older preschool/4-year-old (48 months or older not yet in kindergarten) 24, and school-age 30 (no variance above 30 granted); maximum group size need not be maintained when 12 or fewer children are present in the center (DELACARE Regs for Early Care and Education and School-Age Centers, Sec. 27 Ratios, Group Size, and Supervision).
- Infant (under 12 months)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- Young toddler (1 year old / 12-23 months)
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- Older toddler (2 year old / 24-35 months)
- 1:8 (max group size 16)
- Young preschool (3 year old / 36-47 months)
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- Older preschool (4 year old / 48+ months, not yet attending kindergarten or higher)
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- School-age (attending kindergarten or higher)
- 1:15 (max group size 30); variance to 1:20 allowed only when a currently certified Delaware teacher teaches school-age children in the teacher's area of certification; no variance from the max group size of 30
Florida requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Fla. Admin. Code r. 65C-22.001).
Maximum group size: There is no statewide maximum group-size cap; Florida regulates supervision only through staff-to-child ratios (1:4 for birth to 1 year, 1:6 for 1 to under 2, 1:11 for 2 to under 3, 1:15 for 3 to under 4, 1:20 for 4 to under 5, and 1:25 for 5 years and older), with no separate limit on total children per group or room (Fla. Stat. 402.305(4)(a)).
- Infant (0-11 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (12-23 months)
- 1:6
- Toddler (24-35 months)
- 1:11
- Preschool (3 years)
- 1:15
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:20
- School Age (6-8 years)
- 1:25
Georgia requires a 1:6 infant staff-to-child ratio (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 591-1-1-.32).
Maximum group size: Child Care Learning Centers must observe maximum group sizes of 12 for infants under 1 (or under 18 months not walking), 16 for one-year-olds, 20 for two-year-olds, 30 for three-year-olds, 36 for four-year-olds, 40 for five-year-olds, and 50 for children six and older; these group-size caps do not apply to centers licensed for 18 or fewer children or to outdoor/playground time and special activities under two hours (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 591-1-1-.32).
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:6
- Toddler (12-18 months)
- 1:6
- Toddler (18-36 months)
- 1:8
- Preschool (3 years)
- 1:15
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:18
Hawaii requires a Not permitted in a group child care center / group child care home infant staff-to-child ratio (Haw. Code R. § 17-892.2-36).
Maximum group size: Hawaii DOES impose a maximum group size in addition to staff-child ratios: group child care centers are capped at 16 children for two-year-olds, 24 for three-year-olds, 32 for four-year-olds, and 40 for five-and-older (with corresponding ratios of 1:8, 1:12, 1:16, and 1:20, and infants under 24 months not permitted in group child care centers), and 'the maximum group size of the number of children in one group shall not be exceeded' (HAR § 17-892.2-36(d)-(e)). Infant and toddler child care centers have maximum group sizes of 6, 8, 10, or 12 depending on age (HAR § 17-895-17(f)).
- Under 24 months (under 2 years)
- Not permitted in a group child care center / group child care home (per HAR §17-892.2-36(d) Ratio and Group Size Chart I; infants/toddlers are served under HAR Chapter 17-895.1)
- 2 years old
- 1:8 (one staff member per 8 children; maximum group size 16) — HAR §17-892.2-36(d)
- 3 years old
- 1:12 (one staff member per 12 children; maximum group size 24) — HAR §17-892.2-36(d)
- 4 years old
- 1:16 (one staff member per 16 children; maximum group size 32) — HAR §17-892.2-36(d)
- 5 years and older
- 1:20 (one staff member per 20 children; maximum group size 40) — HAR §17-892.2-36(d)
Idaho requires a 2 points per child infant staff-to-child ratio (Idaho Code § 39-1109(4)).
Maximum group size: No statewide numeric group-size cap — Idaho defines "group size" as "the maximum number of children in one (1) group or classroom" (Idaho Code 39-1102(10)) but sets no numeric maximum per age band; capacity is governed solely by the twelve (12)-point child:staff ratio system rather than a separate group-size limit (Idaho Code 39-1109(4)).
- Under 24 months
- 2 points per child; max 12 points per staff member = up to 6 infants per staff (Idaho Code § 39-1109(4))
- 24 months to under 36 months
- 1.33 points per child; max 12 points per staff = up to ~9 children per staff (Idaho Code § 39-1109(4))
- 36 months to under 5 years
- 0.923 of a point per child; max 12 points per staff = up to 13 children per staff (Idaho Code § 39-1109(4))
- 5 years to under 13 years
- 0.48 of a point per child; max 12 points per staff = up to 25 children per staff (Idaho Code § 39-1109(4))
- All ages (minimum staffing floor)
- At least one adult employee must be present at all times when any child is in attendance (Idaho Code § 39-1109(3)); maximum 12 points per staff member overall (§ 39-1109(4))
Illinois requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (89 Ill. Adm. Code §407.190).
Maximum group size: Illinois sets maximum group sizes for day care centers by age band: 12 for infants (6 weeks-14 months), 15 for toddlers (15-23 months), 16 for two-year-olds, 20 for three- and four/five-year-olds, and 30 for school-age children (89 Ill. Adm. Code 407.190 / Appendix). Day care homes have no separate group-size cap beyond the 12-child capacity maximum.
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (13-23 months)
- 1:5
- Toddler (24-30 months)
- 1:8
- Preschool (31 months-5 years)
- 1:10
- School Age (5+ years)
- 1:20
Indiana requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Ind. Admin. Code tit. 470, r. 3-4.7-48).
Maximum group size: Indiana sets maximum GROUP SIZE limits for licensed child care centers, posted on the same chart as the ratios: infant 8, toddler 10, two years 10, 30-36 months 14, three years 20, four years 24, and five years and older 30 (470 IAC 3-4.7-47); the corresponding child/staff ratios from that same chart are infant 4:1, toddler 5:1, two years 5:1, 30-36 months 7:1, three years 10:1, four years 12:1, and five years and older 15:1 (470 IAC 3-4.7-47). No separate group-size cap beyond the overall home capacity is set for family child care homes.
- Infant (birth to 12 months)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- Toddler (12 to 24 months)
- 1:5 (max group size 10)
- 2 years (24 to 30 months)
- 1:5 (max group size 10)
- 30 to 36 months
- 1:7 (max group size 14)
- 3 years
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- 4 years
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- 5 years and older (school age)
- 1:15 (max group size 30)
Iowa requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Iowa Admin. Code r. 441—109.8).
Maximum group size: Iowa sets no separate statewide maximum group-size cap for child development homes beyond the total capacity and infant/toddler sub-limits fixed by registration category (Iowa Admin. Code r. 441-110.13 through 441-110.15); the categorical capacity numbers themselves serve as the only group limits.
- Two weeks to two years (infants)
- 1:4
- Two years
- 1:7
- Three years
- 1:10
- Four years
- 1:12
- Five years to ten years
- 1:15
- Ten years and over
- 1:20
- Combined age group containing a child under two years (441-109.8(2)(c))
- 1:7 maintained whenever a child under age 2 is in the group
- Beginning/end of operation period of two hours or less (441-109.8(2)(j))
- 1:8, with no more than 4 children under age 2 and no more than 8 children in the center
Kansas requires a 1:3 infant staff-to-child ratio (Kan. Admin. Regs. § 28-4-428).
Maximum group size: Kansas sets maximum-children-per-unit (group size) caps for child care centers under K.A.R. 28-4-428(a)(2): infants 9 (at a 1:3 staff-child ratio) or 8 (at 1:4); infants and other children under age 6 = 12 (including not more than 6 infants, at 1:6); toddlers = 12 (at 1:6); children at least 2 but under 3 years = 14 (at 1:7); children at least 2.5 years but under school-age = 24 (at 1:12); and school-age children = 32 (at 1:16).
- Infants
- 1:3 (max 9 per unit) or 1:4 (max 8 per unit); only one staff-child ratio may be used at any one time for each infant unit (K.A.R. 28-4-428(a)(2), eff. 8/2/2024)
- Infants and other children under the age of 6 (mixed)
- 1:6 (including not more than 3 infants); max 12 per unit (including not more than 6 infants)
- Toddlers (learned to walk, 12 to 30 months)
- 1:6 (max 12 per unit)
- Children at least 2 years but under 3 years
- 1:7 (max 14 per unit)
- Children at least 2.5 years but under school-age
- 1:12 (max 24 per unit)
- School-age (will attain kindergarten eligibility, not yet 16)
- 1:16 (max 32 per unit)
Kentucky requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (922 KAR 2:120).
Maximum group size: Kentucky sets maximum group sizes for Type I child-care centers by age band: infants 10, toddlers 12-24 months 12, toddlers 24-36 months 20, preschool 3-4 years 24, preschool 4-5 years 28, and school-age (5-7 years) 30 (922 KAR 2:120 Section 2(2)).
- Infant (0–12 months)
- 1:5 (max group size 10, Type I centers only)
- Toddler (12–24 months)
- 1:6 (max group size 12, Type I centers only)
- Toddler/2-year-old (24–36 months)
- 1:10 (max group size 20, Type I centers only)
- Preschool (3 to 4 years)
- 1:12 (max group size 24, Type I centers only)
- Preschool (4 to 5 years)
- 1:14 (max group size 28, Type I centers only)
- School-age (5 to 7 years)
- 1:15 (max group size 30, Type I centers only)
- School-age (7 years and older), full-day
- 1:20 (max group size 30, Type I centers only)
- School-age (7 years and older), before/after school only
- 1:25 (max group size 30, Type I centers only)
Louisiana requires a 5:1 infant staff-to-child ratio (La. Admin. Code tit. 28, § CLXI-1711).
Maximum group size: Louisiana sets explicit maximum group sizes for centers by age band under §1711.L: infants under 1 year, 15; 1 year, 21; 2 years, 20; 3 years, 26; 4 years, 30; 5 years, 38; and 6 years and up, 46 (La. Admin. Code tit. 28, Pt. CLXI, §1711.L).
- Infants under 1 year
- 5:1 (max group size 15)
- 1 year
- 7:1 (max group size 21)
- 2 years
- 10:1 (max group size 20)
- 3 years
- 13:1 (max group size 26)
- 4 years
- 15:1 (max group size 30)
- 5 years
- 19:1 (max group size 38)
- 6 years and up
- 23:1 (max group size 46)
Maine requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (10-148 C.M.R. ch. 32, § 7).
Maximum group size: Maine sets maximum group sizes for Child Care Centers (distinct from ratios): 8 for ages 6 weeks-1 year; 12 or 10 for ages 1-2.5 years; 21 for ages 2.5-3.5 years; 24 or 20 for age 3 to not-yet-school-age (5); and not applicable (no cap) for school-age 5-15 years (10-148 CMR Ch. 32 §28.1, adult-to-child ratio / maximum group size table). Family child care homes have no separate group-size cap beyond the 12-child capacity limit (10-148 CMR Ch. 33 §7.C).
- Infants (6 weeks to 1 year)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- Young toddlers (1 year to 2.5 years)
- 1:4 (max group 12) or 1:5 (max group 10)
- Older toddlers/young preschool (2.5 years to 3.5 years)
- 1:7 (max group 21)
- Preschool (3 years to under 5 years)
- 1:8 (max group 24) or 1:10 (max group 20)
- School-age (5 years to 12 years)
- 1:13
Maryland requires a 1:3 infant staff-to-child ratio (Md. Code Regs. 13A.16.08.03).
Maximum group size: Maryland sets maximum group sizes for child care centers by age band: 6 for infants, 9 for toddlers, 12 for two-year-olds, 20 for preschool-age children (3-4 years), and 30 for kindergarten-age and older children (5 and older), per COMAR 13A.16.08.03.
- Infants (under 18 months)
- 1:3 (max group size 6)
- Toddlers (18 months to under 2 years)
- 1:3 (max group size 9)
- Two-year-olds
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- Preschool (3 to 4 years)
- 1:10 (max group size 20); 1:12 (max group size 24) in Department-approved educational programs during a school day approved by the Department (COMAR 13A.16.08.03 E(1))
- School-age (5 years and older)
- 1:15 (max group size 30)
Massachusetts requires a 1:3 infant staff-to-child ratio (606 CMR 7.10).
Maximum group size: Massachusetts sets maximum group sizes by age for large group child care: infants (up to 15 months) 7; toddlers (15-33 months) 9; preschoolers (33 months to school age) 20 full-day / 24 half-day; kindergarten 30; school age 26 (606 CMR 7.10(9)(b)).
- Infant (0-15 months)
- 1:3
- Toddler (15-33 months)
- 1:4
- Preschool (33 months-4 years)
- 1:9
- Preschool (4-6 years)
- 1:10
- School Age (6-14 years)
- 1:13
Michigan requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Mich. Admin. Code R. 400.8222).
Maximum group size: Child care centers have maximum group sizes of 12 (birth-30 months, 1:4), 24 (30 months-3 years, 1:8), 30 (3-4 years, 1:10), 40 (4 years-school age, 1:12), and 54 (school-age, 1:18) per Mich. Admin. Code R 400.8222 (small capacity centers use a minimum 1:6 ratio with a maximum group size of 20); family and group child care homes have no separate statewide group-size cap beyond their total capacity limits.
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (12-30 months)
- 1:4
- Preschool (2.5-3 years)
- 1:8
- Preschool (3-4 years)
- 1:10
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:12
- School Age (5+ years)
- 1:17
Minnesota requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Minn. R. 9503.0040).
Maximum group size: Minnesota child care centers must observe maximum group sizes of 8 for infants, 14 for toddlers, 20 for preschoolers, and 30 for school-age children; these maximums apply at all times except during meals, outdoor activities, field trips, naps and rest, and special activities such as films, guest speakers, and holiday programs (Minn. R. 9503.0040). Family child care does not set a separate group-size cap beyond its total capacity limits.
- Infant (6 weeks up to 16 months; per 9503.0040, subp. 4 may extend up to 18 months)
- 1:4 (maximum group size 8)
- Toddler (16 months up to 33 months; per 9503.0040, subp. 4 may extend up to 35 months)
- 1:7 (maximum group size 14)
- Preschooler (33 months to first day of kindergarten)
- 1:10 (maximum group size 20)
- School-age (attending kindergarten and older)
- 1:15 (maximum group size 30)
Mississippi requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (15 Miss. Code R. § 11-55-1.8.2).
Maximum group size: Mississippi sets explicit maximum group sizes (distinct from staff-to-child ratio) for centers: infant (birth through 12 months) 10, toddler (12 months to under 24 months) 18, 2 years 24, 3 years 28, 4 years 32, 5-9 years 40, and 10-12 years 50 children per group (MSDH Subpart 55, Chapter 1, Rule 1.8.3 Grouping, Source: Miss. Code Ann. § 43-20-8).
- Less than 1 year (infants, birth through 12 months)
- 1:5 (max group size 10, min 2 caregivers, 40 sq ft/child); Rule 1.8.2 / Rule 1.8.3
- 1 year (toddlers, 12 months to under 24 months)
- 1:9 (max group size 18, min 2 caregivers, 45 sq ft/child); Rule 1.8.2 / Rule 1.8.3
- 2 years
- 1:12 (max group size 24, min 2 caregivers, 35 sq ft/child); Rule 1.8.2 / Rule 1.8.3
- 3 years
- 1:14 (max group size 28, min 2 caregivers, 35 sq ft/child); Rule 1.8.2 / Rule 1.8.3
- 4 years
- 1:16 (max group size 32, min 2 caregivers, 35 sq ft/child); Rule 1.8.2 / Rule 1.8.3
- 5 through 9 years
- 1:20 (max group size 40, min 2 caregivers, 35 sq ft/child); Rule 1.8.2 / Rule 1.8.3
- 10 through 12 years
- 1:25 (max group size 50, min 2 caregivers, 35 sq ft/child); Rule 1.8.2 / Rule 1.8.3
- Transport vehicle 10,000+ lbs GVWR (e.g., school bus)
- 1:25 (driver not counted as caregiver, except in dually-licensed facilities when the vehicle carries only school-age children); Rule 1.15.4(2). On vehicles under 10,000 lbs GVWR the classroom ratio applies and the driver is not counted — Rule 1.15.4(1)
Missouri requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (5 CSR 25-500.112).
Maximum group size: For child care centers and group child care homes, maximum group size is set by age band: 8 for infants/toddlers/2-year-olds (birth-36 months, ratio 1:4), 16 for groups solely of 24-36-month-olds (ratio 1:8), 20 for 3-4-year-olds (ratio 1:10), and 32 for children 5 and older (ratio 1:16) (5 CSR 25-500.112); family child care homes have no separate group-size cap beyond the 10-child licensed capacity (5 CSR 25-400.105(2)(A)).
- Birth through 2 years (infants/toddlers, birth to 36 months, mixed)
- 1:4, max group size 8 (5 CSR 25-500.112)
- 2-year-olds only (groups solely 24–36 months)
- 1:8, max group size 16 (5 CSR 25-500.112)
- 3 through 4 years
- 1:10, max group size 20 (5 CSR 25-500.112)
- 5 years and older
- 1:16, max group size 32 (5 CSR 25-500.112)
- Mixed ages 2 years and up
- 1:10 (max group 20) with no more than four 2-year-olds; 1:8 (max group 16) when more than four 2-year-olds are in the group (5 CSR 25-500.112)
Montana requires a 4:1 infant staff-to-child ratio (Mont. Admin. r. 37.96.106).
Maximum group size: Montana sets child-to-staff ratios and maximum group sizes for child care CENTERS by age: 4:1 with a maximum group size of 12 for children newborn through 23 months; 8:1 with a maximum of 16 for two through three years; 10:1 with a maximum of 24 for four years; and 14:1 with a maximum of 32 for five years and over (ARM 37.95.623(1)). When children of different ages are mixed, the ratio and group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained (ARM 37.95.623(2)). Family and group day-care homes are governed by total registered capacity (three to eight and 9 to 15 children respectively under 52-2-703, MCA) rather than per-age group-size caps.
- Newborn through 11 months (infants)
- 4:1 (maximum group size 12)
- 12 months through 23 months (toddlers)
- 6:1 (maximum group size 12)
- 2 years old
- 8:1 (maximum group size 16)
- 3 years through 5 years
- 10:1 (maximum group size 20)
- 6 years old and over (school-age)
- 20:1 (maximum group size 40)
Nebraska requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (391 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 3, § 006.15C).
Maximum group size: Nebraska sets no statewide maximum group-size cap distinct from staff-to-child ratios; child care center ratios are set per age band (1 staff per 4 infants 6 weeks-18 months, 1 per 6 toddlers 18 months-3 years, 1 per 10 three-year-olds, 1 per 12 four- and five-year-olds, 1 per 15 school-age) and "compliance with staff-to-child ratios is determined on a center-wide basis" rather than by capped group sizes (391 NAC 3-006.15C).
- 6 weeks to 18 months
- 1:4
- 18 months to 3 years
- 1:6
- 3 years
- 1:10
- 4 and 5 years
- 1:12
- School-age
- 1:15
Nevada requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Nev. Admin. Code § 432A.5205).
Maximum group size: For Nevada child care centers, maximum group size by age band is: under 9 months = 8; 9 months to under 2 years = 12; 2 to under 3 years = 18; 3 to under 4 years = 24; 4 to under 5 years = 26; and 5 years and older = 36 (State of Nevada Child Care Licensing Reference Guide; NAC 432A.5205, with ratios determined by the youngest child in a mixed-age room).
- Infants under 9 months (daytime 6:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m.)
- 1:4
- 9 months to under 2 years (daytime)
- 1:6
- 2 to under 3 years (daytime)
- 1:9
- 3 to under 4 years (daytime)
- 1:12
- 4 to under 5 years (daytime)
- 1:13
- 5 years and older (daytime)
- 1:18
- Under 3 years (night, 9:00 p.m.-6:30 a.m.)
- 1:6
- 3 years and older (night)
- 1:10
New Hampshire requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (N.H. Code Admin. R. He-C 4002.36).
Maximum group size: New Hampshire sets maximum group sizes by age: infants (6 weeks-12 months) 12, toddlers (13-24 months) 15, older toddlers (25-35 months) 18 (He-C 4002.37(b)); and preschoolers (36-59 months) 24 and school-age children (60 months and over) 30 (He-C 4002.36(b)).
- Infants 6 weeks to 12 months
- 1:4 (max group size 12); a second staff person must be in the building when 5 or more children are present — He-C 4002.37
- Toddlers 13 to 24 months
- 1:5 (max group size 15) — He-C 4002.37
- Toddlers 25 to 35 months
- 1:6 (max group size 18) — He-C 4002.37
- Preschool 36 to 47 months
- 1:8 (max group size 24) — He-C 4002.36
- Preschool 48 to 59 months
- 1:12 (max group size 24) — He-C 4002.36
- 60 months and older (in a group child care center)
- 1:15 (max group size 30); a second staff person required when 11 or more children are present — He-C 4002.36
- School-age 56 months or older (school-age program)
- 1:15 (max group size 45) — He-C 4002.39(f)
New Jersey requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3).
Maximum group size: New Jersey sets no statewide maximum group-size cap for child care centers; it regulates only staff/child ratios (under 18 months 1:4, 18 months to under 2.5 years 1:6, 2.5 to under 4 years 1:10, 4 years 1:12, 5 years and older 1:15), with no separate limit on the total number of children grouped together (N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3).
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (12-30 months)
- 1:6
- Preschool (2.5-3.5 years)
- 1:10
- Preschool (3.5-5 years)
- 1:12
- School Age (5+ years)
- 1:15
New Mexico requires a 1:6 infant staff-to-child ratio (N.M. Admin. Code § 8.16.2.23).
Maximum group size: New Mexico centers set maximum group sizes alongside ratios: infants 12 and toddlers 12 (ratio 1:6), two-year-olds 20 (1:10), three- and four-year-olds 24 (1:12), and five-year-olds and older 30 (1:15) (8.16.2.23.C.1 NMAC); home rules use minimum-educator thresholds rather than a separate group-size cap.
- Infants (standard ratios per 8.16.2.23(C)(1) NMAC)
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- Toddlers
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- Two years
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- Three years
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- Four years
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- Five years
- 1:15 (max group size 30)
- Six years and older
- 1:15 (max group size 30)
- Combined: six weeks through 24 months
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- Combined: two through four years
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- Combined: three through five years
- 1:14 (max group size 28)
- Combined: 18-24 months grouped with 24-35 months
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- Swimming pools more than two feet deep (water-activity ratio table, 8.16.2.24(K)(4) NMAC)
- By age of youngest child: 0-23 months 1:1; 2 years 1:2; 3 years 1:6; 4 years 1:8; 5 years 1:10; 6 years and older 1:12 (heightened supervision beyond standard ratios)
New York requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. tit. 18 §418-1.8).
Maximum group size: New York sets per-age-band maximum group sizes for child day care centers in addition to staff:child ratios: infants under 6 weeks ratio 1:3 / max group 6; infants 6 weeks to 18 months 1:4 / max 8; toddlers 18-36 months 1:5 / max 12; three-year-olds 1:7 / max 18; four-year-olds 1:8 / max 21; five-year-olds 1:9 / max 24; school-age through 9 years 1:10 / max 20; school-age 10-12 years 1:15 / max 30 (18 NYCRR 418-1.8).
- Infant (6 weeks-18 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (18-36 months)
- 1:5
- Preschool (3-4 years)
- 1:7
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:8
- School Age (5-6 years)
- 1:10
North Carolina requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (10A NCAC 09 .0713).
Maximum group size: North Carolina sets a maximum group size per age band for child care centers that never exceeds 25 children: 10 for ages 0 to 12 months, 12 for 12 to 24 months, 20 for ages 2 to 3 years, and 25 for ages 3 years and older (NCDHHS/DCDEE "Child Care Centers Basic Information for Potential Providers," Revised December 2024, standard staff/child ratio and group size table; the higher-star Enhanced Ratio standard in 10A NCAC 09 .3208 instead caps the 2-to-3-year group at 18).
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:5
- Toddler (12-24 months)
- 1:6
- Toddler (24-30 months)
- 1:7
- Preschool (30 months-3 years)
- 1:10
- Preschool (3-4 years)
- 1:15
- School Age (5+ years)
- 1:20
North Dakota requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-10-08).
Maximum group size: North Dakota sets no separate group-size cap and instead regulates staffing through age-based minimum staff-to-child ratios expressed in decimal form (.25 for children under eighteen months, .20 for eighteen to thirty-six months, .14 for thirty-six months to four years, .10 for four to five years, .08 for five to six years, and .05 for six to twelve years), with licensed capacity caps of seven children for family child care, thirty for group child care, and more than thirty for a child care center (NDAC 75-03-09-09 and NDCC 50-11.1-03(1)-(3) and 50-11.1-02).
- Under 18 months (infants)
- 1:4 (max group size 10)
- 18 months to 36 months (toddlers)
- 1:5 (max group size 15)
- 3 years to 4 years
- 1:7 (max group size 20)
- 4 years to 5 years
- 1:10 (max group size 25)
- 5 years to 6 years
- 1:12 (max group size 30)
- 6 years to 12 years (school-age)
- 1:20 (max group size 40)
Ohio requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (Ohio Admin. Code 5180:2-12-18).
Maximum group size: Ohio sets statutory maximum group sizes for child care centers by age: 12 for infants under 18 months, 14 for toddlers 18-30 months, 16 for toddlers 30 months to 3 years, 24 for 3-year-olds, 28 for 4-5-year-olds (not in school), 36 for school-age (kindergarten through 10 years), and 40 for ages 11-14 (ORC 5104.033; OAC 5180:2-12-18 Appendix A).
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:5
- Toddler (12-24 months)
- 1:6
- Toddler (24-30 months)
- 1:7
- Preschool (30 months-3 years)
- 1:12
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:14
- School Age (6+ years)
- 1:18
Oklahoma requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Okla. Admin. Code § 340:110-3-286).
Maximum group size: Oklahoma sets statewide maximum group sizes for child care centers per single-age band in OAC 340 Appendix GG — Ratios and Group Sizes (enforced under OAC 340:110-3-286): infants 8, 1-year-olds 12, 2-year-olds 16, 3-year-olds 24, 4-year-olds 30, and 5-year-olds and older 40; mixed-age groups follow the youngest child's limit (max 40).
- Infants (single-age group)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- 1-year-olds (single-age group)
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- 2-year-olds (single-age group)
- 1:8 (max group size 16)
- 3-year-olds (single-age group)
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- 4-year-olds (single-age group)
- 1:15 (max group size 30)
- 5-year-olds and older (single-age group)
- 1:20 (max group size 40)
- Mixed-age: Infants, 1s, and 2s only
- 1:6 (max 12; no more than two infants per teaching personnel)
- Mixed-age: Infants and older
- 1:8 (max 16; no more than two under age 2 per teaching personnel)
- Mixed-age: 1-year-olds and older
- 1:8 (max 16; no more than two 1-year-olds per teaching personnel)
- Mixed-age: 2-year-olds and older
- 1:12 (max 24; no more than four 2-year-olds per teaching personnel)
- Mixed-age: 3-year-olds and older
- 1:15 (max 30; no more than six 3-year-olds per teaching personnel)
- Mixed-age: 4-year-olds and older
- 1:18 (max 36; no more than eight 4-year-olds per teaching personnel)
- Out-of-School Time (youngest 5+)
- 1:20 (youngest 3yo 1:12 / max 24; youngest 4yo 1:15 / max 30)
- Swimming/wading (youngest infant or 1-year-old)
- 1:1 (2yo 1:2; 3yo 1:6; 4yo 1:7; 5yo 1:7; 6yo and older 1:10)
Oregon requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Or. Admin. R. 414-305-0400).
Maximum group size: Oregon sets maximum group sizes for Certified Child Care Centers in Table 3A (centers initially licensed after July 15, 2001): 8 children for ages 6 weeks-24 months, 10 for 24-36 months, 20 for 36 months to school-age, and 30 for school-age; a center may exceed maximum group size only on field trips, outdoor play, planned large-group activities, napping, and eating (OAR 414-305-0400(6) and Table 3A; exceptions at 414-305-0400(7)(c)). Registered Family Child Care homes have no separate group-size cap beyond the 10-child total capacity.
- 6 weeks to 24 months of age (Table 3A, OAR 414-305-0400)
- 1:4, maximum group size 8
- 24 months to 36 months of age (Table 3A)
- 1:5, maximum group size 10
- 36 months to school-age (Table 3A)
- 1:10, maximum group size 20
- School-age (Table 3A)
- 1:15, maximum group size 30
- Legacy Table 3B (centers with initial certification on or before July 15, 2001): 6 weeks to 30 months of age
- 1:4, maximum group size 8
- Legacy Table 3B: 30 months to school-age
- 1:10, maximum group size 20
- Legacy Table 3B: school-age
- 1:15, maximum group size 30
Pennsylvania requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (55 Pa. Code § 3270.51).
Maximum group size: Pennsylvania child care centers set a maximum group size per similar age level: infant 8, young toddler 10, older toddler 12, preschool 20, young school-age 24, and older school-age 30 children, with corresponding staff:child ratios of 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:10, 1:12, and 1:15 (55 Pa. Code § 3270.51).
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (13-24 months)
- 1:5
- Toddler (25-36 months)
- 1:6
- Preschool (3-4 years)
- 1:10
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:12
- School Age (5+ years)
- 1:15
Rhode Island requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (R.I. Code R. 218-RICR-70-00-1.11).
Maximum group size: Rhode Island sets maximum group sizes for Child Care Centers by age band: younger infants (6 weeks–12 months) 8; older infants (12–18 months) 8; toddlers (18–36 months) 12; preschool-3 (3 years) 18; preschool-4 (4 years) 20; preschool 5–6 years (not in kindergarten) 24 (218-RICR-70-00-1.11(B)(1)).
- Younger Infants (6 weeks - 12 months)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- Older Infants (12 - 18 months)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- Toddlers (18 - 36 months)
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- Preschool 3 (3 years old)
- 1:9 (max group size 18)
- Preschool 4 (4 years old)
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- Preschool 5-6 (5-6 years, not in kindergarten)
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- School Age - Kindergarten
- 1:13 (max group size 26)
- School Age Grades 1-6
- 1:13 (max group size 26)
- School Age Grades 7+ (under age 16)
- 1:13 (max group size 26)
South Carolina requires a 1:5 infant staff-to-child ratio (S.C. Code Regs. 114-504).
Maximum group size: South Carolina sets no statewide maximum group-size cap distinct from staff-to-child ratios; centers must meet staff:child ratios (1:5 birth-to-1 yr, 1:6 1-2 yrs, 1:8 2-3 yrs, 1:12 3-4 yrs, 1:17 4-5 yrs, 1:20 5-6 yrs, 1:23 6-12 yrs) posted in all classrooms, with no rule limiting total children per group or room beyond ratios and square footage (S.C. Reg. 114-504.B, eff. June 22, 2018).
- Birth to one year (infants)
- 1:5
- One to two years
- 1:6
- Two to three years
- 1:8
- Three to four years
- 1:12
- Four to five years
- 1:17
- Five to six years
- 1:20
- Six to twelve years
- 1:23
South Dakota requires a 5:1 infant staff-to-child ratio (S.D. Admin. R. 67:42:17:19).
Maximum group size: No statewide numeric group-size cap per age band - for center and school-age programs maximum group sizes are determined by individual approved room capacity (subject to staff-child ratios of 5:1 up to age three, 10:1 ages three through four, and 15:1 age five and over), not a fixed group-size number, per ARSD 67:42:17:19 and 67:42:17:21; family day care has no group-size limit beyond the 12-child home capacity in ARSD 67:42:17:23.
- Children up to 3 years of age
- 5:1 (five children to one provider) — ARSD 67:42:17:19
- Children 3 years through 4 years
- 10:1 (ten children to one provider) — ARSD 67:42:17:19
- Children 5 years and over (school-age)
- 15:1 (fifteen children to one provider) — ARSD 67:42:17:19
- Mixed-age group, program serving 20 or fewer children
- 10:1, with no more than four children under age 2 in the group — ARSD 67:42:17:20
- Mixed-age group serving more than 20 children that includes 3 or more children under age 3
- 5:1; otherwise (children 3+ only) the ratio of the age group comprising the majority of the group is maintained — ARSD 67:42:17:20
Tennessee requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 1240-04-01-.22).
Maximum group size: Tennessee sets maximum group sizes for child care centers in addition to ratios: 8 for infants (6 weeks-15 months), 12 for toddlers (12-30 months), 18 for three-year-olds, 20 for four- and five-year-olds, and no maximum group size for school-age children (Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 1240-04-01-.22).
- 6 weeks - 15 months (infants)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- 12 - 30 months
- 1:6 (max group size 12)
- 24 - 35 months (2 years)
- 1:7 (max group size 14)
- 3 years
- 1:9 (max group size 18)
- 4 years
- 1:13 (max group size 20)
- 5 years
- 1:16 (max group size 20)
- School-age
- 1:20 (no maximum group size)
Texas requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (26 Tex. Admin. Code § 746.1601).
Maximum group size: Texas does not impose a fixed maximum group-size cap per age band; for child-care centers a 'maximum group size' under 26 TAC Sec. 746.1609 becomes operative only when 13 or more children are in care under two or more caregivers, with the specific limits set in a chart in that rule (commonly summarized as twice the single-caregiver child/caregiver ratio for the youngest age in the group, a formula that could not be confirmed in quotable .gov text because the chart is published as an image); otherwise classroom size is governed by the staff-to-child ratio. (26 TAC Sec. 746.1609)
- Infant (0-17 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (18-23 months)
- 1:5
- Toddler (24-35 months)
- 1:9
- Preschool (3 years)
- 1:11
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:15
- School Age (6+ years)
- 1:26
Utah requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Utah Admin. Code R381-100-10).
Maximum group size: Utah child care centers set maximum group sizes per age band: infants and younger toddlers (0-17 months) 8, older toddlers (18-23 months) 10, two-year-olds 16, three-year-olds 24, four-year-olds 30, and school-age (5+) 40 (Utah Admin. Code R381-100-10, Table 1); family child care homes are capped by overall capacity (max 16) rather than per-band group size (R430-90-10).
- Infant (0-11 months)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- Younger toddler (12-17 months)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- Older toddler (18-23 months)
- 1:5 (max group size 10)
- Two-year-olds (24-35 months)
- 1:8 (max group size 16)
- Three-year-olds
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- Four-year-olds
- 1:15 (max group size 30)
- Five years and older / school-age
- 1:20 (max group size 40)
Vermont requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Code Vt. R. 13-171-004-X § 6.2.1).
Maximum group size: Vermont sets maximum group sizes for center-based programs distinct from staff ratios: birth-18 months = 8, 18-30 months = 10, 24-36 months = 10, 32-42 months = 15, 36 months-Kindergarten = 20, and 1st grade and up = 26 (Vermont Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs Licensing Regulations § 6.2.1.3).
- Birth – 18 months (infants)
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- 18 months – 30 months
- 1:4 (max group size 10)
- 24 months – 36 months
- 1:5 (max group size 10)
- 32 months – 42 months
- 1:6 (max group size 15)
- 36 months – Kindergarten (preschool)
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- 1st grade and up (school age)
- 1:13 (max group size 26)
Virginia requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (8 Va. Admin. Code § 20-780-350).
Maximum group size: Virginia sets maximum group sizes for licensed child day centers distinct from ratios: 12 for birth-16 months, 15 for 16-24 months, 24 for two-year-olds, and 30 for three-year-olds through school-age-eligible, with no group-size limit for school-age-eligible through 12-year-old children (8VAC20-780-350).
- Infant (0-16 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (16-24 months)
- 1:5
- Toddler (2 years)
- 1:6
- Preschool (3 years)
- 1:9
- Preschool (4-5 years)
- 1:10
Washington requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Wash. Admin. Code § 110-300-0356).
Maximum group size: Centers have age-band maximum group sizes and ratios: infants (birth-11 months) 8 at 1:4 or 9 at 1:3; toddlers (12-29 months) 14 at 1:7 or 15 at 1:5; preschoolers (30 months-6 years) 20 at 1:10; and school-age children 30 at 1:15 (WAC 110-300-0356).
- Infant (0-12 months)
- 1:4
- Toddler (12-29 months)
- 1:7
- Preschool (30-59 months)
- 1:10
- School Age (5+ years)
- 1:15
West Virginia requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (W. Va. Code R. § 78-1-10).
Maximum group size: West Virginia child care centers set maximum group sizes per age band (distinct from ratio) in Appendix 78-1 E, Table A: max group 8 for ages 6 weeks–12 months (ratio 1:4); 12 for 13–24 months (1:4); 16 for 25–35 months (1:8); 20 for ages 3 / 36–47 months (1:10); 24 for ages 4 / 48–59 months (1:12); 24 for ages 5–school-age / 60 months–school-age (1:12); and 32 for school-age (1:16) (78 CSR 1 §10.5.b.1 and Appendix 78-1 E, Table A).
- 6 weeks to 12 months
- 1:4 (max group size 8)
- 13 to 24 months (1-2 years)
- 1:4 (max group size 12)
- 25 to 35 months (2 years)
- 1:8 (max group size 16)
- 36 to 47 months (3 years)
- 1:10 (max group size 20)
- 48 to 59 months (4 years)
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- 60 months to school-age (5 years)
- 1:12 (max group size 24)
- School-age
- 1:16 (max group size 32)
Wisconsin requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (Wis. Admin. Code § DCF 251.055).
Maximum group size: Wisconsin does not set a separate per-age-band maximum group size for family child care centers; capacity is governed instead by the overall 8-child limit and the per-provider direct-count limits in Table DCF 250.055, which cap the number of children one provider may serve based on how many children under age 2 are present (Wis. Admin. Code DCF 250.055(2)).
- Birth to 18 months
- 1:4 (maximum group size 8)
- 18 months to 2.5 years
- 1:7 (maximum group size 14)
- 2.5 years to 3 years
- 1:8 (maximum group size 16)
- 3 years to 4 years
- 1:10 (maximum group size 20)
- 4 years to 5 years
- 1:13 (maximum group size 26)
- 5 years and over (school age)
- 1:18 (maximum group size 36)
Wyoming requires a 1:4 infant staff-to-child ratio (049-11 Wyo. Code R. § 11-2).
Maximum group size: Under the current Wyoming staff:child ratio and group-size table (WY Child Care Licensing Rules, Chapter 11, Section 2(b), effective April 2026): infants (birth-12 mo) 1:4 / 2:8 / 3:10 (max group 10); one-year-olds 1:5 / 2:10 / 3:12 (max group 12); two-year-olds 1:8 / 2:16 / 3:18 (max group 18); 3- and 4-year-olds 1:12 / 2:24 / 3:30 (max group 30); school age (5+) 1:18 / 2:32 / 3:40 (max group 40); group size may be further limited by room/facility capacity. NOTE: the draft's group sizes (all 8-10, from the 2014 Table 6-1) are superseded by this revised table.
- Infants (birth to 12 months)
- 1:4 (1 staff); 2:8 (2 staff); 3:10 max group size
- One-year-olds
- 1:5 (1 staff); 2:10 (2 staff); 3:12 max group size
- Two-year-olds
- 1:8 (1 staff); 2:16 (2 staff); 3:18 max group size
- Three- and four-year-olds
- 1:12 (1 staff); 2:24 (2 staff); 3:30 max group size
- School age (5+ years)
- 1:18 (1 staff); 2:32 (2 staff); 3:40 max group size
- Mixed Age Option 1
- 1 staff: 1:8, no more than 2 infants and 2 one-year-olds. 2 staff: 2:15, no more than 4 infants / 4 one-year-olds / 4 two-year-olds / 3 three-year-olds or older
- Mixed Age Option 2
- 1 staff: 1:10, no more than 2 children under age 2
- Water/swimming — infants & toddlers (birth to 36 months)
- 1:1 while in the water (adult in direct physical contact with infants; not more than an arm's length from one-year-olds)
- Water/swimming — three to four years old
- 1:4 while in the water
- Water/swimming — five years or older
- 1:6 while in the water