Indoor and Outdoor Space Requirements

Once you've found the right site, make sure the building and grounds are suitable for child care. Inside the building, you'll need many things in place before opening your doors.

Classrooms should have more than the minimum required square footage per child required for licensing, as well as natural light from windows or skylights. Areas for both quiet and active play, along with sufficient space for children to play alone or with a group, are important. A child care classroom typically includes interest areas for blocks, dramatic play, reading, manipulatives, art, sand/water play, indoor active play (gross motor area), science, and a napping area. In addition, each class needs space for cubbies and coat hooks at children's level.

Diapering Area -- An area for diaper changing may be located within or adjacent to the classroom, and should include a changing table, disposable table paper, diapers, wipes, spray bottle with disinfectant solution, disposable rubber or latex gloves, and covered diaper pail, with a sink for handwashing nearby.

Bathrooms -- A child's lavatory should be located within or immediately adjacent to the classroom, with sinks and toilets at children's level to facilitate handwashing and toilet training. A separate adults' lavatory should be conveniently located.

Kitchen -- Food storage areas, equipment suitable for food preparation, and industrial appliances (including a dishwasher) are essential elements in the kitchen, which should be located on the ground floor near the classroom areas, but closed off, so children cannot enter without adult supervision.

Storage -- There should be ample storage space(s) in each classroom, particularly in areas for art, science, cooking projects, and manipulatives.

Staff Room -- Supply a comfortable room that staff use for breaks, conferences, and meetings, with a secure place to store handbags and personal items. Tea and coffee, and a small refrigerator for keeping lunches and soft drinks, are welcoming touches.

Resource Library Area -- Set aside a place for parents and staff to share resources on child development and parenting, and to store children's books not currently being used in the classrooms.

Office Administrative Area -- You will need a private space to house all files and records pertaining to the center and families, office equipment (including telephone and computer), all money and checks, and space and equipment for administrative functions. It should have a door that locks and a locking file cabinet to keep confidential records secure. You can use this space to interview parents for enrollment and for confidential staff meetings, parent-teacher conferences, etc. In addition to a desk and chair, you may want a small sofa or several comfortable chairs.

Outside Space

Children will spend time each day in the outdoor play area, which must be a fun, safe, and developmentally appropriate space. Outdoor space adjacent to the classrooms is ideal. If that is impossible, find outdoor play space as close as possible to the center. Your center's playground space will need to be approved by the zoning department and licensing agency, and should have the following:

• Cushioned ground covering under play equipment (approved rubber matting, or eight to twelve inches of soft sand or woodchips -- never concrete, asphalt, or gravel)
• Sturdy playground equipment that meets safety standards, properly spaced to avoid accidents from collision or crowding
• Sturdy fencing around the entire outdoor space
• Adequate drainage
• Balance of sunny and shady areas
• No broken glass, animal waste, standing water, or other hazards