The information provided on this page is a basic outline of New Hampshire Child Care requirements that pertain to the design and construction of Child Care Facilities in the State of New Hampshire. 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.
NEW HAMPSHIRE Child Care Licensing Requirements
Child Care license obtained from:
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
129 Pleasant Street Concord, NH 03301-3852
See New Hampshire state childcare regulations here
(603) 271-4624
License renewal: required once every three years.
Indoor Space Requirements: 35 sf per child
|
|
6 Wks.-12 Mos. |
13-24 Mos. |
25-35 Mos. |
36-47 Mos. |
48-59 Mos. |
60+ Mos. |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Required Teacher:Child Ratio |
1:4 |
1:5 |
1:6 |
1:8 |
1:12 |
1:15 |
|
|
Required Max. Group Size |
12 |
15 |
18 |
24 |
24 |
30 |
|
|
Recommended Classroom Capacity |
8 |
10 |
12 |
16 |
24 |
30 |
|
|
Recommended Staff per Classroom |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Recommended Min. Classroom Area |
280 sf. |
350 sf. |
420 sf. |
560 sf. |
840 sf. |
1050 sf. |
|
Outdoor Space Requirements: 40 sf per Infant, 50 sf per Toddler, 65 sf per Preschool and Older
- The outdoor play area should directly adjoin the indoor space of the facility
- The outdoor play space should operate 5 or fewer hours per day.
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
|
6 |
Infants may have access to toys with a string or a chord that is up to 6 inches long. |
5 |
If a child stays for longer then 5 hours, there will be an opportunity for at least an hour of sleep or rest. |
2 |
Playpens are required to have no more than 2 3/8 inches in between the slats. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Did you know . . .
 |
All doors and exists should not have anything blocking it so children and staff can run out of the building if needed. |
 |
Toy boxes accessible to children will either have a safety lid or not a lid at all. |
 |
There should be no gaps that are between 3 1/2- 9 inches apart on handrails, guardrails, slats or anywhere where it is accessible to children. |
|---|
Research completed by Calbert Design Group, LLC. Updated 2019
New Hampshire Childcare Licensing Process
Hello there! So you’re considering pursuing a Childcare Provider License in the beautiful state of New Hampshire? That’s fantastic! Our comprehensive guide provides you with a step-by-step walkthrough of everything you need to know in this process. From understanding the licensing requirements to navigating the application procedures, we’ve got everything covered for you. By the end of this informative guide, you’ll be well-prepared to successfully obtain your Childcare Provider License in New Hampshire. So let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Are you thinking of venturing into the child care industry in New Hampshire? Or do you already have a child care center and want to become licensed officially? If so, it’s important to understand the process to get your childcare provider license in New Hampshire.
In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, explaining the necessary requirements, licensing process, and any additional information that you need to know.
Getting Started: Understanding the Need for a License
As a childcare provider, your goal is to ensure that the children in your care are safe, healthy, and well-cared for. Having a license ensures that your facility meets the required health, safety, and educational standards set by the state. A licensed provider also increases the parents’ confidence in your service. Moreover, in New Hampshire, it’s the law of the Department of Health and Human Services that all childcare programs caring for six or more children need a license to operate legally.
Eligibility and Type of Licenses
In New Hampshire, the Department of Health and Human Services offers several types of licenses depending on the nature and size of your program.
Family Child Care Program License
For you to be eligible for this license, you must operate the program from your home and won’t be supervising more than six children at a time.
Child Care Center Program License
You are eligible for this license if you will supervise more than six children in a non-residential setting.
School Age Program License
This license is for those who want to care for children aged 5 – 14 years in a non-residential setting (after school hours or during school holidays).
Licensing Process in New Hampshire
Now that you understand the need for a license and the various types available, let’s walk through the process of getting a childcare license in New Hampshire.
Self-Assessment and Pre-licensing Orientation
Before you begin the application process, the New Hampshire Child Care Licensing Unit recommends taking a self-assessment to ensure you meet the criteria. Also, attend a pre-licensing orientation to familiarize yourself with the regulations and requirements.
Licensing Application
The first step in the licensing process is the submission of an application form and the necessary supporting documents. The licensing application will require vital information such as the number of children you plan to take care of and the hours, plus program information, background information, and the provision of various key documents (e.g., health examination certificates, proof of eligibility to work in the USA etc.).
Inspection Process
Once you submit the application and the required documents, an inspector from the Child Care Licensing Unit will visit your facility to verify if your center meets the required licensing standards. It will embrace fire safety, health and sanitation, and child safety.
Issuing of License
Upon successful completion of the inspection, the New Hampshire Child Care Licensing Unit will issue your childcare provider license. This license will be valid for one year and will need to be re-evaluated and renewed annually.
Maintaining Your License
Being granted a license is not the final step. You need to ensure that your center maintains the required standards, and you need to renew it annually. Apart from adhering to the rules, you’re required to attend an ongoing training and development program to stay updated with the latest trends and regulations in the childcare industry.
Conclusion
You are now ready to embark on your journey to serve the children and the community. Remember, your goal should go beyond meeting the minimum requirements for licensure. Aim to provide a safe and nurturing environment that promotes the growth and development of every child that you care for. Get your Childcare Provider License in New Hampshire today and make a lasting impact on the lives of the children in your care.
We hope this guide has equipped you with the information you need to navigate through the process. Possible challenges might occur during the way, but your determination and passion will see you through. Good luck, and here’s to your success as a licensed childcare provider in New Hampshire.
-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.