Qualification Guidelines for Colorado Child Care Center Directors

Large Childcare Center Director Requirements in Colorado

To become a director of a large childcare center in Colorado, you must meet specific educational and experience requirements:

Educational Requirements:

1. Hold a current director qualifications letter or an early childhood professional credential level III or higher.

2. Complete one of the following educational paths:

   • A Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate degree from an accredited university in one of the following:

     
     

     • Child Development, Child Psychology, Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Special Education, Educational Leadership and Administration, Elementary Education, Family and Human Development, Family Studies, Special Education.

       
       

   • Complete of specific coursework, including subjects like Early Childhood Professions, Guidance Strategies, Health and Safety, Administration, Curriculum Development, Child Growth and Development, and Infant/Toddler Theory.

   • Complete a Department-approved training program that includes relevant coursework and experience.

Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate Degree Holders: No additional experience required.

• Associate’s Degree Holders: Three months (455 hours) of verified experience.

• Bachelor’s Degree with 30 Specific Credit Hours: Three months (455 hours) of verified experience.

• No Degree but 30 Specific Credit Hours: Six months (910 hours) of verified experience.

• Additional experience requirements include direct work with children and specific types of care settings.

You can refer to the Code of Colorado Regulations for more info and specifics.

Assistant Director Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old with nine months (1,365 hours) of experience as an early childhood teacher.

• Must meet educational qualifications, including half of the required coursework for director qualifications.

Small Childcare Center Director Requirements in Colorado

Directors or substitute directors of small centers must meet large center qualifications or one of the following:

• Current Teaching License: Issued by the Colorado Department of Education with relevant endorsements.

• Early Childhood Professional Credential: Level II or higher.

• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential: In relevant areas such as preschool or infant-toddler.

• Experience and Coursework: Two years and nine months (5,005 hours) of experience with two early childhood education courses, or nine months (1,365 hours) of experience with an Associate’s degree and specific coursework.

Meeting these qualifications ensures that childcare center directors in Colorado are well-equipped to provide high-quality care and education. Adherence to these standards promotes a safe, nurturing, and effective childcare environment.

Note: All course grades must be a "C" or better. For further details, please refer to the official Colorado Department of Early Learning, Licensing, and Administration guidelines.

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Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulations. Child care and daycare center regulations vary by state and can change frequently. Always consult your state's official regulatory bodies for the most up-to-date and accurate information. We are not liable for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions in the information provided. Use this article at your own risk.