The information provided on this page is a basic outline of Tennessee Child Care requirements that pertain to the design and construction of Child Care Facilities in the State of Tennessee. 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.
TENNESSEE Child Care Licensing Requirements
Child Care license obtained from:
Department of Human Services, Child Care Services
400 Deaderick Street, 14th Floor, Nashville, TN 37243
https://publications.tnsosfiles.com/rules/1240/1240-04/1240-04-01.20190103.pdf
(615) 770-3884
License renewal is required every year.
Indoor Space Requirements: 30 sf per child
|
|
6 Wks.- 15 Mos. |
12-18 Mos. |
18-24 Mos. |
2Years |
3Years |
4Years |
5Years |
6+Years |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Required Teacher:Child Ratio |
1:4 |
1:6 |
1:6 |
1:7 |
1:9 |
1:13 |
1:16 |
1:20 |
|
|
Required Max. Group Size |
8 |
12 |
12 |
14 |
18 |
20 |
20 |
None |
|
|
Recommended Classroom Capacity |
8 |
12 |
12 |
14 |
18 |
36 |
20 |
40 |
|
|
Recommended Staff per Classroom |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Recommended Min. Classroom Area |
240 sf. |
360 sf. |
360 sf. |
420 sf. |
540 sf. |
600 sf. |
600 sf. |
1400 sf. |
|
Outdoor Space Requirements: 50 sf per child
- Equipment that is 12″ high or less can be on grass or another type of cushioning material.
- Preschool children should not use swings over 8′ high.
- Spacing requirements for gross motor play equipment of 30″ high is 9 feet.
- Use CPSC’s “Handbook on Public Playground Safety” for guidance, but compliance is not required.
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
|
10 |
Occupants allowed in a room with room with only one exit. |
20 |
Percentage of wall mounted artwork allowed to cover the wall area |
0 |
Number of child cubbies allowed in a corridor of a non-sprinklered building. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Did you know . . .
 |
Plans must be submitted to the local county Health Department at least 15 days prior to construction. |  |
Children under 16 months may not be grouped with children 3 years old and older. |  |
Diaper changing tables must be within arm’s reach of the diapering sink. |
|---|
Research completed by Calbert Design Group, LLC. Updated 2019
Tennessee Childcare Licensing Process
Embarking on the journey to becoming a licensed Childcare Provider in the beautiful state of Tennessee? You’re in luck, as this comprehensive guide will become your trusty companion throughout the process. It’s carefully crafted to help you navigate each step, especially finding your way through the maze of requirements and paperwork. From understanding the guidelines and eligibility to submitting a successful application, this useful resource is designed to turn your licensing dream into a reality.
Get ready to fuel your determination, you’re about to make a huge difference in the lives of many children.
Understanding the Importance of a Childcare Provider License
When it comes to caring for children, parents need to be reassured that their child is in safe, capable and trustworthy hands. This reassurance comes from knowing that the provider is properly licensed. This is where a Childcare Provider License comes into play.
What is a Childcare Provider License?
A Childcare Provider License is essentially a certification or registration that verifies an individual or institution has met the necessary standards set by the state to provide childcare services responsibly and safely. It’s like a badge of credibility that instills confidence in parents about the quality of your establishment or services.
Why is it necessary to have a license?
Having a license to provide childcare is not only a legal requirement in many places but also a necessity to maintain a standard of care within the industry. The license ensures that the provider meets all necessary health, safety, and educational guidelines necessary for the growth and development of the child. Strict observance of these guidelines provides a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Eligibility Criteria for Childcare Provider License in Tennessee
Gaining a Childcare Provider License in Tennessee doesn’t just automatically happen. There are specific criteria you need to meet to be eligible.
Minimum age requirement
The state of Tennessee requires individuals applying for a Childcare Provider License to be at least 21 years old. This ensures that an individual possesses a level of maturity necessary to handle the challenges of childcare.
Educational qualification
In Tennessee, the license application also mandates that the applicant should possess a high school diploma or its equivalent as the minimum educational requirement. This is to equip the provider with basic understanding and knowledge appropriate for delivering effective childcare.
Background check and fingerprinting process
You are required to undergo a comprehensive background check and fingerprinting process. This is to ensure the safety of the children under your care by confirming you have no history of criminal activity.
Health requirements
To ensure the safety of the children under your care, it is also mandatory to meet certain health requirements. These may include immunizations, tuberculosis testing, and a general health assessment.
Training Requirements
Training is an integral part of being a childcare provider. Getting a license in Tennessee requires that you meet certain training requisites.
Mandatory training programs
These programs are designed to provide you with necessary skills and knowledge about child development, safety measures, emergency procedures, and more.
First Aid and CPR certification
As a childcare provider, you are expected to address all sorts of emergencies. One way to ensure you’re equipped for such scenarios is by getting a First Aid and CPR certification.
Continuing education
Even after earning your license, you will be expected to participate in continuing education programs. These programs will ensure you stay updated with latest practices in childcare.
Understanding the Licensing Process
You know you need a license, but you might be wondering how to get it. Below is the necessary information about the licensing process.
Application process
To embark on this journey, you will need to go through an application process that usually involves submitting an application form and several required documents.
Required documentation
Required documents may include proof of the educational qualification, age, health assessments, background check results, and training certifications.
Evaluation and inspection process
Before a license is issued, an evaluation and inspection process will be carried out to ensure that everything aligns with the stipulated standards of the state for providing child care.
Filling Out the Application Form
Details to be filled in the form
The form usually requires basic information like your name, address, background details, training credentials, and more.
Additional documents to be attached
As mentioned above, along with the filled form you need to attach all the required documents or copies to verify the information provided.
Application fees
Every application comes with a fee. The fee covers the processing cost of your application and is usually non-refundable even when the application is not successful.
Background Check and Fingerprinting
Background checks and fingerprinting are essential steps when applying for a Childcare Provider License.
Procedure for background check
A thorough background check involves checking your records for any criminal activities, civil suits, etc. This is crucial in ensuring a safe environment for the children.
Understanding the fingerprinting process
Fingerprinting is another aspect of the background check, often used to confirm identity and check your records on several databases. This is usually done at designated law enforcement agencies.
How and where to get it done
Background checks and fingerprinting can typically be done at local police departments, or any authorized centers. Always remember to take a valid form of identification with you when going for fingerprinting.
Inspections and Evaluations
Inspections and evaluations are an important part of the licensure process. They help ensure your skills, knowledge, and facility meet the state’s childcare standards.
Types of evaluations
Evaluations may assess the safety and health standards of the facility, program curriculum, your interaction with children, and more.
On-site inspection process
During on-site inspections, evaluators will visit your establishment to assess the environment, facilities, and childcare practices.
Meeting safety and health standards
Your facility must adhere to all safety and health standards to pass the inspection. This may include cleanliness, availability of amenities, adherence to codes and more.
Preparing for an inspection
You can prepare for an inspection by making sure your place is clean, safe, and conducive for children. Also, have all your required documents readily presentable.
Obtaining First Aid and CPR Certifications
These certifications equip you to handle emergencies that may arise while caring for children.
List of approved providers
There are specific providers approved by the state for these certifications.
Signing up for the course
You can usually sign up for these courses online or by contacting the providers directly.
Duration of the course
Typically, courses run for specific durations, and you need to attend all sessions to be certified.
Receiving Your License
After meeting all the requirements, passing your inspections and evaluations, you will be ready to receive your license.
Understanding the scoring system
Each aspect of the evaluation process will be scored, so it is important to understand this system to know where improvements may be needed.
Receiving and displaying your license
Upon successful completion of the process, you will receive your Childcare Provider License. It is required that you display it prominently at your facility/establishment.
Time taken to receive the license
The processing time can vary but usually takes a few weeks after all processes and documentation have been submitted and approved.
Maintaining And Renewing Your License
Getting a license is not the end. You will need to maintain and renew it throughout your tenure as a childcare provider.
Continuing education requirements
Continuing education programs will keep you updated with the latest practices and guidelines in childcare. Your attendance at such programs is usually a condition to renew your license.
Renewal process
There will be a set timeline to follow when renewing your license. This usually involves submitting an application for renewal, paying the renewal fee, and showing proof of continuing education.
Addressing any violations or complaints
Addressing violations or complaints promptly is crucial in maintaining a high standard of service and ensuring that your license is not at risk. Remember, the goal is to provide the best child care service possible, and your license is evidence of that commitment.
-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.