Rhode Island Childcare Licensing
Rhode Island Childcare Staff-to-Child Ratios (2026)
Rhode Island sets a maximum staff-to-child ratio for each age band a licensed center serves. The strictest ratio applies to the youngest children: Younger Infants (6 weeks - 12 months) must be supervised at no looser than 1:4 (max group size 8). Meeting these ratios at all times is a core Rhode Island licensing condition.
Licensing Agency
Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Care, Child Care Licensing Unit →Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the TotReady Research TeamRhode Island Staff-to-Child Ratios: The Specifics
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Younger Infants (6 weeks - 12 months) age group is 1:4 (max group size 8).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Older Infants (12 - 18 months) age group is 1:4 (max group size 8).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Toddlers (18 - 36 months) age group is 1:6 (max group size 12).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool 3 (3 years old) age group is 1:9 (max group size 18).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool 4 (4 years old) age group is 1:10 (max group size 20).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool 5-6 (5-6 years, not in kindergarten) age group is 1:12 (max group size 24).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the School Age - Kindergarten age group is 1:13 (max group size 26).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the School Age Grades 1-6 age group is 1:13 (max group size 26).
In Rhode Island, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the School Age Grades 7+ (under age 16) age group is 1:13 (max group size 26).
Rhode Island sets maximum group sizes for Child Care Centers by age band: younger infants (6 weeks–12 months) 8
6 weeks–12 months
older infants (12–18 months) 8
12–18 months
toddlers (18–36 months) 12
18–36 months
preschool 5–6 years (not in kindergarten) 24 (218-RICR-70-00-1.11(B)(1)).
218-RICR-70-00-1.11(B)(1)
Rhode Island Staff-to-Child Ratios at a Glance
| 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) |
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Rhode Island Staff-to-Child Ratios: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the infant staff-to-child ratio in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island requires a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 (max group size 8) for the Younger Infants (6 weeks - 12 months) age group.
Does Rhode Island cap 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)).
How many staff do I need for my Rhode Island classroom?
Divide the number of children in each age group by the maximum ratio shown above, rounding up. Rhode Island ratios must be maintained continuously, including during naps, meals, and transitions.
Rhode Island childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published Rhode Island administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Care, Child Care Licensing Unit before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.