Choosing a childcare option can be overwhelming. In the South Louisville area, there are many daycare and home childcare options to place your children. But what is the difference between daycare and home childcare?
What Is Daycare?
Daycares are usually larger businesses with classrooms divided by age, such as infant (0-12 months), toddler (12-24 months), two’s, three’s, pre-K, kindergarten, and school-aged children.
Daycares in Kentucky have the following child-to-teacher ratios:
- 6 weeks-12 months (5:1)
- Toddlers (6:1)
- 2 – 3 years (10:1)
- 3 – 4 years (12:1)
- 4 – 5 years (14:1)
- 5 – 7 years (15:1)
- 7 years and older (25:1)
In addition to child-to-teacher ratios, the state of Kentucky caps the maximum classroom size:
- Infants: 10
- Toddlers: 12
- Three’s: 20
- Pre-K (3 and 4-year-olds): 24
- Pre-K (4 and 5-year-olds): 28
- School-age (5+ years old): 30
What Is Home Childcare?
Home childcare is when a licensed childcare provider watches other children in their own home. This is a common way for stay-at-home parents to bring in extra income, as providers can care for related children (biological children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews, or step-children) at the same time as other children.
There are two categories for home childcare: small-family childcare homes and large-family childcare homes.
Small-Family Childcare Homes
Childcare providers can have up to four related children and 4-6 unrelated children in the home. This means a maximum of ten children can be in the home at a time, but no more than four infants (under 12 months) can be present in the home at a time.
Large-Family Childcare Homes
Large-family childcare homes can have 7-12 children at one time. The child-to-teacher ratios for this childcare option are:
- 5:1 for under age 12 months
- 6:1 for 1-2 years
- 10:1 for 2-3 years
- 12:1 for 3-4 years
- 14:1 for 4-5 years
- 15:1 for 5-7 years
While there’s a lot to consider when choosing childcare, we believe Children’s Academy Childcare and Preschool is a top option for South Louisville childcare. We strive to care for each child individually and help them reach their maximum potential. Contact us today for more information!
Children’s Academy Childcare and Preschool is proud to offer an outstanding curriculum that is educational, fun, and prepares your child for kindergarten per state educational standards.
If you’re looking to give your child a head start in school, contact Children’s Academy Childcare and Preschool today!
What’s Next
A Day in the Life at Children’s Academy Childcare and Preschool