Understanding the Types of Child Care Facilities in Pennsylvania

When it comes to choosing or running a child care facility in Pennsylvania, it's crucial to understand the different types of care settings available, as well as the regulations that apply to each. Whether you're planning to operate a child care facility in your home or in a commercial setting, knowing the distinctions between them can help you make informed decisions.

1. Residential Child Care Facilities (In Your Home)

• Family Child Care Home

  • Capacity: Up to 6 children (or up to 12 with a Special Exception, except in the 6th, 9th, and 10th City Council districts, where the limit is 4 unrelated children).

  • Setting: This is a business located in the provider's primary residence and must be situated in a single-family or two-family residence. The care provider must live in the home, whether they own it or are a tenant authorized by the owner. Family Child Care is intended for children who are not relatives of the provider.

  • Zoning: Must be in a building zoned for residential use and located in the business owner’s primary residence.

  • Special Exceptions: In some areas, with approval, the capacity can increase to 12 children, but this is not applicable in certain districts where stricter limits apply.

• Group Child Care Home

  • Capacity: Up to 12 children who are not related to the provider.

  • Setting: Unlike Family Child Care, this type of facility is not located in the provider’s primary residence. Group Child Care Homes in residential districts are allowed only if they are accessory to a principal residence or an accessory building used for purposes such as education, healthcare, cultural exhibits, religious assembly, or recreation.

  • Zoning: May require a special exception or variance to operate in a residential building. In Districts 6 and 10, the limit is 4 unrelated children or adults; District 9 allows for up to 6 children.

  • Location: This type of care can also be provided in commercially zoned properties, which may have different regulatory requirements.

2. Commercial Child Care Facilities (Outside Your Home)

• Child Care Centers

  • Capacity: 13 or more children

  • Setting: These facilities are typically operated outside the caregiver's home in a commercial space and are equipped to handle larger groups of children. Child Care Centers often provide more structured programs and can cater to a broader age range.

• Group Child Care (Commercial Setting)

  • Capacity: Up to 12 children

  • Setting: Similar to residential group child care homes, but located in a commercial setting, these facilities provide care for smaller groups of children outside the home environment.

In summary, Pennsylvania offers several types of child care facilities:

• Family Child Care Homes: Operated in the provider's primary residence, typically for up to 6 children (with possible exceptions up to 12).

• Group Child Care Homes: Can accommodate up to 12 children and may be located in residential or commercial settings, often requiring special exceptions.

• Child Care Centers: Commercial facilities for 13 or more children, providing more structured programs.

Do related children count toward my facility's maximum capacity?

No, related children do not count toward the maximum number of children allowed in your facility.

• For family child care providers, "related" means your child, stepchild, grandchild, or foster child.

• For group or center-based providers, in addition to a child, stepchild, grandchild, and foster child, "related" also includes siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. You can care for any number of related children beyond the stated maximum for unrelated children.

Understanding the types of child care facilities and regulations around related and unrelated children is crucial for operating a child care business in Pennsylvania. By staying informed and compliant, you can create a safe and effective environment, whether in a small family care home or a larger center.

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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.