The information provided on this page is a basic outline of Kansas Child Care requirements that pertain to the design and construction of Child Care Facilities in the State of Kansas. This information is a brief synopsis and does not include all of the detailed requirements needed to satisfy the governing authorities for Child Care Licensing, Building Code, Fire Code, Accessibility, or local Zoning. These guidelines are for general information and planning purposes. Contact the governing authority directly or engage a Licensed Architect to complete a full analysis of your school location.
KANSAS Child Care Licensing Requirements
Child Care license obtained from:
Kansas Department of Health and Environment Bureau of Child Care and Health Facilities
Curtis State Office Building, 1000 SW Jackson, Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612-1274
See Kansas childcare regulations here
(785) 296-1270
License renewal is required every year.
Indoor Space Requirements: 35 sf per child
|
|
2 Wks. -2 Mos. |
Infants to 6 Mos. |
12 Mos.-2 Years |
2-3 Years |
2 1/2-5 Years |
3-5 Years |
5 Years |
6+ Years |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Required Teacher:Child Ratio |
1:3 |
1:4 (2 Infants) |
1:5 |
1:7 |
1:10 |
1:12 |
1:14 |
1:16 |
|
|
Required Max. Group Size |
9 |
8 (4 Infants) |
10 |
14 |
20 |
24 |
28 |
32 |
|
|
Recommended Classroom Capacity |
9 |
8 (4 Infants) |
10 |
24 |
20 |
24 |
28 |
32 |
|
|
Recommended Staff per Classroom |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Recommended Min. Classroom Area |
315 sf. |
280 sf. |
350 sf. |
490 sf. |
700 sf. |
840 sf. |
980 sf. |
1120 sf. |
|
Outdoor Space Requirements: 75 sf per child
- The outdoor play area must be well drained and free from hazards.
- The play area will have no greater than four feet tall fence surrounding the whole space, areas that will have both shade and sun, and staff supervision at all times.
- A hard-surfaced area or gravel will not be under the plat equipment. It will have a soft surface like a rubber.
- Sandboxes shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition.
Building Code Requirements
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CHILD FIXTURES |
ADULT FIXTURES |
DRINKING FOUNTAINS |
MOP SINK |
BATH TUB/ SHOWER |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
1: 15 |
1:50 |
1:100 |
1 |
1 |
Fire Code Requirements
|
18 |
Applicants for a license have to be 18 years old or older. |
2 |
The building will have 2 exits approved by a fire inspector. One of the exists has to lead directly outside. |
14 |
Volunteers must be at least 14 years old. If they are 16 years old they can be counted in the child: staff ratio. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Did you know . . .
 |
The programs will provide regularity in routines such as eating and napping. |  |
Facilities licensed for more than 100 children will have an assistant program director. |  |
Every day, there will be a written plan which includes daily learning experiences to improve their development levels. |
|---|
Research completed by Calbert Design Group, LLC. Updated 2019
Kansas Childcare Licensing Process
Hello, there! You’re probably reading this because you’re considering a fulfilling and meaningful career as a childcare provider in the beautiful Sunflower State. You might be wondering about the steps needed towards achieving your dream. Well, you are in the right place! Our article “The Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Childcare Provider License in Kansas” offers a detailed and easy-to-follow guide to help you navigate the process of getting a childcare provider license in Kansas.
From meeting the initial qualifications to understanding Kansas-specific requirements, we have all the information you need to start your journey. So, let’s delve in and get you on your way to your dream job.
Ever wondered how to embark on the amazing journey of becoming a licensed childcare provider in Kansas? Well, you’re in the right place! We’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, breaking down the requirements, the process and providing some handy tips along the way.
Becoming a licensed childcare provider can be a challenging process, but with the right guidance and persistence, you can turn it into an exciting adventure.
What is a Childcare Provider License?
Good question! A childcare provider license is a regulatory requirement to provide childcare services in Kansas. It ensures that you have met all state regulations and guidelines set by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This city-approved document ensures the safety, health and well-being of the children you’ll be caring for.
Becoming a licensed childcare provider can open many doors for you. Besides the ability to work in a daycare or open your own, it may qualify you for various grants and programs offered by the state and opens you up to a network of support.
Prerequisites for Applying
Before you can begin the licensing process, there are several prerequisites you must fulfill:
Meet the Age Requirement:
In Kansas, childcare providers must be at least 18 years of age. You’ll likely need to provide valid identification to verify your age.
Be Free of Criminal Convictions:
Kansas requires that licensed childcare providers pass a comprehensive background check. This requirement ensures that personnel caring for children are trustworthy and reliable.
Satisfy Health Requirements:
You must provide proof that you’ve received a health assessment within the last two years, stating you are free from infectious or communicable diseases. This not only protects the children but also ensures that you are able to effectively carry out your duties.
Complete Required Training:
You’re required to complete pre-service health and safety training. This includes Pediatric First Aid and CPR, Health and Safety Orientation, and more.
How to Apply for a Childcare Provider License in Kansas
Once you have satisfied these prerequisites, you can move onto the steps required to apply for your Childcare Provider License. The process may seem daunting at first, but with a little persistence and organization, you’ll be through in no time!
Step 1: Complete the KDHE Orientation:
Everyone applying for a childcare provider license in Kansas must first complete the KDHE online orientation. This step gives you important information about the licensing process and answers many of the questions you might have.
Step 2: Make an Application:
Once you’ve completed the orientation, it’s time to fill out the childcare provider license application form. You can download this form from the KDHE website, fill it in, and submit it along with the associated fees.
Step 3: Undergo an Inspection:
After you submit your application, the KDHE will arrange for a Licensing Surveyor to inspect your proposed facility or your home (if you plan to provide home childcare services). They’ll be checking for things like safety, cleanliness, and space availability.
Step 4: Complete the Required Training:
You are also required to undertake a few specified KDHE training courses. These cover topics like health and safety, child development, and child behaviour.
Step 5: Obtain Your License:
Once everything has been completed and checked, the KDHE will issue your childcare provider license!
Maintaining Your Childcare Provider License
Remember, this license isn’t a one-time deal. Keeping your license involves ongoing work and effort:
Annual Renewal:
Your license will be valid for one year. Each year, you’ll need to fulfill ongoing training requirements and pay renewal fees.
Continued Professional Development:
Continuing to upskill and educate yourself is key to maintaining your license. The State not only requires it but also offers a variety of courses and seminars to help.
Stay Updated with Policy Changes:
Regularly check the KDHE website or subscribe to their newsletter to stay updated with new policies, regulations or initiatives that may affect your childcare provider license.
Becoming a licensed childcare provider in Kansas is a journey of responsibility and growth. By choosing this path, you’re not only opting for a fulfilling career, but you’re also taking on the noble task of nurturing and educating tomorrow’s leaders. So, keep moving forward, explore every opportunity, and never stop learning along the way!
Rest assured, with this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle every step of your childcare provider licensing journey in Kansas. The joy of caring for and positively influencing a child’s life awaits you at the end of this process. Happy licensing!
-This article was written by Rebecca Calbert.
With over 35 years of experience, Rebecca leads the way at Calbert Design Group. She is dedicated to guiding her clients through the complexities commercial real estate development.
Discover more of her valuable insights and resources at SaveOnBuilding.com , where Rebecca’s “purpose” is to educate small business owners and protect them them from what they don’t know.