Creating a Day Care Business in Kansas

Kansas state law regulates the licensing and operation of day care facilities to ensure children's health, safety, and well-being in their care. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) administers and enforces these regulations.

Day Care Businesses in Kansas must be licensed and controlled, per Kansas law.

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.

Even small Kansas day care businesses must be licensed by the state.

Licensing Requirements

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment or KDHE must license all child care facilities in Kansas. 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 fire safety, sanitation, and infection control requirements.

• 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 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.

Learn More at KDHE Website