Kansas state law regulates the licensing and operation of day care facilities to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of children in their care. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is responsible for administering and enforcing these regulations.
Types of Licensed Day Care Businesses in Kansas
There are three types of day care facilities in Kansas:
Licensed Day Care Homes: These facilities care for a maximum of ten children under 16 years of age and includes children under 11 years of age related to the provider. The license is usually issued for the provider's own home but may be issued at a location other than the provider's home such as a commercial setting.
Group Child Care Homes: These homes care for a maximum of 12 children under the age of 16, including children under 11 years of age related to the provider. The license is usually issued for the provider's own home but may be issued at a location other than the provider's home such as a commercial setting.
Child Care Centers: These facilities care for at least 13 children under the age of 16, including children under 11 years of age related to the provider. They must meet specific safety, health, and staffing requirements.
Licensing Requirements
All child care facilities in Kansas must be licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environmnet or KDHE. To obtain a license, a facility must meet the following requirements:
Submit an application and fee: The application must include information about the facility, the provider, and the staff.
Pass a background check: All staff members must undergo a criminal background check.
Meet health and safety standards: The facility must meet requirements for fire safety, sanitation, and infection control.
Provide adequate staffing: The facility must have the necessary staff to meet the needs of the children in care.
Inspections and Compliance
KDHE licensing specialists conduct regular inspections of licensed day care facilities to ensure compliance with the regulations. If a facility is found to be out of compliance, it may be fined or ordered to make changes. In some cases, the facility's license may be revoked.
Additional Resources
For more information about Kansas state day care law, please visit the KDHE website.