Childcare Licensing Glossary
Family Child Care Home (FCCH)
A childcare program operated in the provider's own residence, typically serving a smaller group of children than a licensed center.
Last updated: June 2026
Compiled by the TotReady Research TeamDefinition
A family child care home — also called a home daycare — is a licensed childcare program where the provider cares for children in the provider's own home. Every state that requires FCC licensing sets a capacity limit (often 6–8 children for a solo provider), an infant sub-limit, and staff-to-child ratio rules. Some states have two tiers: a basic family home license for smaller groups and a group home license for larger groups that require an additional staff member. The provider's household members of a certain age typically must also pass background checks. Square footage, outdoor space, and sanitation requirements apply, though often at lower thresholds than for a licensed center. See /data/fcc-capacity-by-state for capacity limits by state.
Related terms
Capacity
The maximum number of children a licensed childcare program is approved to serve at any one time, as stated on the license.
License-Exempt / Registration Threshold
The number of unrelated children you can care for without a childcare license — once you exceed it, licensure is required.
Group Size
The maximum number of children allowed in one group or classroom at the same time, separate from the overall program capacity.
Background Check (CBC)
A criminal-history and child-abuse registry search required for all childcare staff and, in most states, household members in a family child care home.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Family Child Care Home (FCCH) in childcare licensing?
- A childcare program operated in the provider's own residence, typically serving a smaller group of children than a licensed center.
- Does Family Child Care Home (FCCH) vary by state?
- Yes. Family Child Care Home (FCCH) rules differ across states. A childcare program operated in the provider's own residence, typically serving a smaller group of children than a licensed center. Check your state's licensing agency for the exact requirements that apply to your program.
- Where can I find the Family Child Care Home (FCCH) rules for my state?
- Your state's childcare licensing agency publishes the current rules in its administrative code or licensing regulations. TotReady's state pages at /states cover key licensing topics by state, and the /data section has cited 50-state tables for ratios, training hours, capacity limits, fees, and exemption thresholds.