Group Size and Ratio
You agree not to exceed the following Group Size Maximum Standards and parameters.
Age Group |
Maximum Group Size |
Infants |
11 |
1 year old children |
13 |
2 year old children |
16 |
3 year old children |
26 |
4 year old children |
30 |
5 year old children (not school aged) |
40 |
School age children |
40 |
a. Each child in a group shares two common experiences with every other child in this group; the same primary caregiver(s) is/are responsible for the child’s basic and developmental needs and are co-located within the same space. The number of children who may be in a group varies according to the age of the children and the number of primary caregivers as determined by ratio. The age of the youngest child within the group shall determine the ratio and maximum group size. For special group activities, such as, outdoor play, mealtime, sleeping and field trips, the group may exceed the maximum group size for the specified period of time only for these activities. ADHS BCCL ratios and licensed capacity may not be exceeded.
b. A child is assigned a primary caregiver upon enrollment. This caregiver is responsible for the majority of the child’s care and interactions throughout the day; ensuring needs such as diaper changing, feeding, etc., are met in a timely manner; observation and assessment; and communicating with families. Children should always be given the opportunity to make autonomous choices of activity and their level of participation within that setting. ADHS BCCL regulations for supervision while moving between activities must be maintained at all times.
c. Primary caregiving is an intentional practice, demonstrating individualized care for children one- on-one and within the group setting. Evidence of this practice may be shown in alternate schedules, separate group rosters and classroom postings. When primary caregiving is a program practice, it must be communicated in a written policy. All staff members, regardless of primary caregiver assign well-being of all children in the child care setting.
b. A child is assigned a primary caregiver upon enrollment. This caregiver is responsible for the majority of the child’s care and interactions throughout the day; ensuring needs such as diaper changing, feeding, etc., are met in a timely manner; observation and assessment; and communicating with families. Children should always be given the opportunity to make autonomous choices of activity and their level of participation within that setting. ADHS BCCL regulations for supervision while moving between activities must be maintained at all times.
c. Primary caregiving is an intentional practice, demonstrating individualized care for children one- on-one and within the group setting. Evidence of this practice may be shown in alternate schedules, separate group rosters and classroom postings. When primary caregiving is a program practice, it must be communicated in a written policy. All staff members, regardless of primary caregiver assign well-being of all children in the child care setting.
