Types of Child Care Settings

Below are general descriptions of the types of child care settings available. Detailed information about requirements can be found on the Child Care Program's site at DSS.

Family Child Care Home (FCCH)

Child care services provided in the home of the operator.
May provide care for up to six (6) children.
Must be registered or licensed if a person provides services to more than one unrelated family of children on a regular basis. (Regular basis is defined as more than two days a week and more than four hours a day).

Group Child Care Home (GCCH)

Child care services provided in the home of the operator.
Only GCCH facilities operating in a separate building prior to August 25, 2000, are allowed to continue to operate in that building.
May provide care for 7 to 12 children.
Must be licensed or approved if the program operates more than four hours a day and more than two days a week.
Programs that operate less than four hours a day may keep children during school vacations and holidays and be exempt from licensing.
When care is provided for 9 to 12 children or more than 3 children under the age of 24 months, a second caregiver is required at all times. In addition, there must be an emergency backup person available who is not included in the staff-to-child ratio.
GCCHs operating in mobile homes must meet Fire Code(s) as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s office.

Child Care Center (CCC)

Child care services provided in a facility with a capacity to serve 13 or more children.
Must be licensed or approved if the program operates more than four hours a day and more than two days a week.
Programs that operate less than four hours a day may keep children during school vacations and holidays and be exempt from licensing.
The number of staff required is based on the number and ages of children enrolled. View the staff-child ratios here.

A video highlighting quality child care settings.
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