Pennsylvania Childcare Licensing
Pennsylvania Childcare Staff-to-Child Ratios (2026)
Pennsylvania sets a maximum staff-to-child ratio for each age band a licensed center serves. The strictest ratio applies to the youngest children: Infant (0-12 months) must be supervised at no looser than 1:4. Meeting these ratios at all times is a core Pennsylvania licensing condition.
Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the TotReady Research TeamPennsylvania Staff-to-Child Ratios: The Specifics
In Pennsylvania, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Infant (0-12 months) age group is 1:4.
In Pennsylvania, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Toddler (13-24 months) age group is 1:5.
In Pennsylvania, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Toddler (25-36 months) age group is 1:6.
In Pennsylvania, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool (3-4 years) age group is 1:10.
In Pennsylvania, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool (4-5 years) age group is 1:12.
In Pennsylvania, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the School Age (5+ years) age group is 1:15.
Pennsylvania child care centers set a maximum group size per similar age level: infant 8, young toddler 10, older toddler 12, preschool 20, young school-age 24, and older school-age 30 children, with corresponding staff:child ratios of 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:10, 1:12, and 1:15 (55 Pa. Code § 3270.51).
55 Pa
Pennsylvania Staff-to-Child Ratios at a Glance
| Infant (0-12 months) | 1:4 |
|---|---|
| Toddler (13-24 months) | 1:5 |
| Toddler (25-36 months) | 1:6 |
| Preschool (3-4 years) | 1:10 |
| Preschool (4-5 years) | 1:12 |
| School Age (5+ years) | 1:15 |
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Pennsylvania Staff-to-Child Ratios: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the infant staff-to-child ratio in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania requires a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for the Infant (0-12 months) age group.
Does Pennsylvania cap maximum group size?
Pennsylvania child care centers set a maximum group size per similar age level: infant 8, young toddler 10, older toddler 12, preschool 20, young school-age 24, and older school-age 30 children, with corresponding staff:child ratios of 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:10, 1:12, and 1:15 (55 Pa. Code § 3270.51).
How many staff do I need for my Pennsylvania classroom?
Divide the number of children in each age group by the maximum ratio shown above, rounding up. Pennsylvania ratios must be maintained continuously, including during naps, meals, and transitions.
Pennsylvania childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published Pennsylvania administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Bureau of Certification Services before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.