Low adult-to-child ratios and small group sizes are essential for supporting children’s health, safety and development in child care settings. In recognition of the unique needs of infants and toddlers, ZERO TO THREE recommends a ratio of 1 adult for every 4 children under the age of three with a maximum group size of 8 children in center-based settings.
What we know about child care ratios and group sizes in states
Rules for ratios and group sizes vary significantly from state to state and fall short of national recommendations. The gap between state licensing regulations and best practice recommendations for ratios and group sizes is particularly glaring for toddlers.
Several states have weakened support for child safety and development by increasing ratios and group sizes, and more states may be considering such changes. In addition to ratios and group sizes, states make determinations regarding age groupings. In some cases, states have lowered the age at which children are considered toddlers, resulting in younger children being placed in classrooms with higher ratios and larger group sizes that aren’t appropriate for their age.
Download our brief to learn more about the impact of group size and ratios in child care settings and for facts about the hidden costs of increased ratios.
