Though there is no national rulebook on childcare licensing, there are common goals supported by national organizations. One such nonprofit group, the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Childcare and Early Education, is based at the University of Colorado Denver. Its mission is "to promote health and safety in out-of-home childcare settings throughout the nation." To this end, its primary resource, the publication "Caring for our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards Guidelines for Out-of-Home Child Care Programs," outlines some basic goals for childcare centers. However, for specific guidelines for your state, you must contact its childcare licensing agency.
Every state has regulations regarding issues of staff. There are strict staff-child ratios. The younger the children, the lower the ratio should be. Also, each employee is expected to meet standards, including a certain number of continuing education hours each year.
Centers must protect the health of their children, and thus standards are written for this purpose. For example, staff must observe each child upon his entrance for any sign of contagious conditions, such as rash or fever, and isolate the child and contact the parent immediately with instructions to pick him up. There are also immunization requirements, and the center's director is responsible for compiling and maintaining appropriate records based on state rules.
Daycare centers must keep a nutrition plan that outlines types of food and drink offered and the number of meals and snacks available based on the number of hours a child attends. The facility must meet guidelines regarding clean and healthy preparation practices as well. Furthermore, the staff must adhere to written instructions for special considerations for children with food allergies.
Each facility must follow rules regarding its equipment, including the building in which the center is housed. Licensing agencies regulate the location and condition of the building, how its rooms are arranged and used and how much space is available per child. Also, an emergency evacuation plan must be posted and explained to all staff. In addition, play equipment must be safe and clean and meet standards in those areas.
Under IDEA, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, centers have rules regarding the care of children with certain disabilities. IDEA is a national law, but states have individual standards that affect care as well. Generally, daycare centers cannot discriminate against children with disabilities and must make certain accommodations. However, depending on space, staffing and other concerns, licensing agencies may make exceptions in specific circumstances.