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Space Requirements |
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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. Indoor SpaceClassrooms 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 SpaceChildren 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:
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This page last updated on
Monday, November 13, 2006 |
