fss-mini-rag-github/childcare-compliance-research/state_licensing_requirements.md
fss-code-server 0dcfb4dfb3 Agent Test Results: Childcare Regulations Compliance System
- Tested FSS-Mini-RAG with childcare regulatory documentation
- Created intelligent compliance knowledge base with 3 documents
- Evaluated search effectiveness for regulatory workflows
- Documented 1 critical issue found (chunking algorithm)
- Rating: 4/10 overall effectiveness due to search precision issues
2025-09-08 15:57:40 +00:00

2.6 KiB

State Childcare Licensing Requirements

General Licensing Standards

Facility Requirements

  • Minimum space per child: 35 square feet of indoor floor space per child
  • Play area requirements: 75 square feet of outdoor play space per child
  • Ceiling height: Minimum 8 feet in all child-occupied areas
  • Natural lighting: At least 10% of floor area must be window space
  • Emergency exits: Minimum 2 exits required for facilities serving 15+ children

Staff Requirements

  • Staff-to-child ratios:
    • Infants (0-12 months): 1:4 ratio
    • Toddlers (13-35 months): 1:6 ratio
    • Preschoolers (3-4 years): 1:12 ratio
    • School-age (5+ years): 1:15 ratio

Background Check Requirements

All staff must complete:

  • FBI criminal background check
  • State criminal background check
  • Child abuse and neglect registry check
  • Sex offender registry check
  • Motor vehicle records check (for transportation staff)

Disqualifying offenses:

  • Any felony conviction involving violence
  • Child abuse or neglect convictions
  • Sexual offenses
  • Drug trafficking convictions within 10 years

Training Requirements

  • Director qualifications: Bachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field, plus 2 years experience
  • Lead teacher requirements: Associates degree or CDA (Child Development Associate) credential
  • Annual training: 20 hours continuing education annually for all staff
  • Mandatory training topics:
    • Child development
    • Health and safety procedures
    • Emergency response
    • Mandated reporting
    • CPR and First Aid certification

Health and Safety Standards

Health Requirements

  • Immunization records: Required for all children and staff
  • Health examinations: Annual physical for staff, biannual for children
  • Sick child policies: Children with fever over 101°F must be excluded
  • Medication administration: Only trained staff can administer prescription medications

Safety Requirements

  • Fire safety inspections: Annual inspection by fire marshal required
  • Safety drills: Monthly fire drills, quarterly severe weather drills
  • Playground safety: Annual inspection by certified playground safety inspector
  • Water safety: 4-foot fence around pools, constant supervision during water activities

Nutrition Standards

  • Meal requirements: Facilities operating 4+ hours must provide nutritious meals
  • USDA guidelines: All meals must meet Child and Adult Care Food Program standards
  • Special diets: Accommodations required for children with documented allergies or medical needs
  • Food safety: All kitchen staff must have food handler's certification