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Understanding Staff-to-Child Ratios in Tennessee

What is the staff-to-child ratio for child care centers in Tennessee?

Understanding Staff-to-Child Ratios in Tennessee

Tennessee Daycare Staff-to-Child Ratios


In Tennessee, ensuring the safety and well-being of children in daycare is a top priority. To maintain high-quality care, the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) enforces specific staff-to-child ratios that all licensed childcare providers must follow. These ratios are tailored to meet the developmental and supervision needs of children across various age groups.


Tennessee's Staff-to-Child Ratios

The following are the staff-to-child ratios required for licensed daycare centers:



Age of Children

Staff-to-Child Ratio

Maximum Group Size

6 weeks to 15 months

1:4

8

12 months to 30 months

1:6

12

24 months to 35 months

1:7

14

3 years old

1:9

18

4 years old

1:13

20

5 years old

1:16

20

School-age children

1:20

No maximum

Alternate Ratios for Mixed-Age Groups

Tennessee provides additional staff-to-child ratios for mixed-age groups, ensuring adequate supervision across broader age ranges:

Age of Children

Staff-to-Child Ratio

Maximum Group Size

6 weeks to 30 months

1:5

10

2 years to 4 years

1:8

16

2½ years to 3 years

1:9

18

2½ years to 5 years

1:11

20

2½ years to 12 years

1:10

10

3 years to 5 years

1:13

22

4 years to 5 years

1:16

24

5 years to 12 years

1:20

No maximum

These ratios must be adhered to at all times, including during activities such as mealtime, naptime, transportation, and outdoor play. Compliance ensures that children receive proper supervision and care, minimizing risks and fostering development.


Why Do Daycare Staff Ratios Matter?

1. Safety

Maintaining proper ratios allows caregivers to provide close supervision, reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries.

2. Quality of Care

Lower staff-to-child ratios enable caregivers to offer individualized attention and foster a nurturing environment, which is essential for children's growth and development.

3. Regulatory Compliance

Licensed daycare providers in Tennessee must follow these ratios to meet DHS standards. Non-compliance can result in penalties or loss of licensure.


Challenges for Childcare Providers

Daycare centers often face difficulties in maintaining the required ratios, particularly during staff absences or times of increased demand. Finding qualified staff quickly can be a challenge, which is where flexible staffing solutions become invaluable.


HelloSubs: Your Partner in Staffing Solutions

HelloSubs is here to help daycare centers meet their staffing needs and maintain compliance with regulations. Our platform connects childcare providers with vetted, experienced substitute teachers who can step in when needed, ensuring that staff-to-child ratios are never compromised.


With HelloSubs, you can:

  • Quickly fill staffing gaps during unexpected absences.

  • Access a pool of qualified professionals ready to work.

  • Maintain compliance with Tennessee’s daycare regulations effortlessly.


Childcare Ratios by State



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HelloSubs can help meet these requirements by providing quality substitute teachers when needed, ensuring that childcare facilities always have the necessary staff to maintain proper ratios and deliver exceptional care.


Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulations. Child care and daycare center regulations vary by state and can change frequently. Always consult your state's official regulatory bodies for the most up-to-date and accurate information. We are not liable for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions in the information provided. Use this article at your own risk.

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