Nebraska Childcare Licensing
Nebraska Childcare Staff-to-Child Ratios (2026)
Nebraska sets a maximum staff-to-child ratio for each age band a licensed center serves. The strictest ratio applies to the youngest children: 6 weeks to 18 months must be supervised at no looser than 1:4. Meeting these ratios at all times is a core Nebraska licensing condition.
Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the TotReady Research TeamNebraska Staff-to-Child Ratios: The Specifics
In Nebraska, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the 6 weeks to 18 months age group is 1:4.
In Nebraska, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the 18 months to 3 years age group is 1:6.
In Nebraska, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the 3 years age group is 1:10.
In Nebraska, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the 4 and 5 years age group is 1:12.
In Nebraska, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the School-age age group is 1:15.
Nebraska sets no statewide maximum group-size cap distinct from staff-to-child ratios
391 NAC 3-006.15C
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).
391 NAC 3-006.15C
Nebraska Staff-to-Child Ratios at a Glance
| 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 |
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Nebraska Staff-to-Child Ratios: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the infant staff-to-child ratio in Nebraska?
Nebraska requires a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for the 6 weeks to 18 months age group.
Does Nebraska cap 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).
How many staff do I need for my Nebraska classroom?
Divide the number of children in each age group by the maximum ratio shown above, rounding up. Nebraska ratios must be maintained continuously, including during naps, meals, and transitions.
Nebraska childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published Nebraska administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health, Licensure Unit - Children's Services Licensing (Child Care Centers) before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.