Facts on Child Daycare in Iowa
In Iowa, child care is available in a number of settings, from small, home daycares with three or four children to large daycare centers and preschools. Most daycare facilities provide educational and recreational activities for children. A daycare setting provides benefits such as early childhood socialization and a structured daily schedule. Licensed daycares report to the Iowa Department of Human Services, which keeps a publicly accessible record of complaints and violations.
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Home Daycare Providers
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Home daycares provide a small, comfortable setting and offer competitive rates. Always request references and credentials when considering an unlicensed home daycare provider. In Iowa, home daycare providers do not have to obtain licensure if they provide care for fewer than six children. However, some home providers still opt for licensure because of its benefits, including a certificate of registration and support from the Iowa Department of Human Services.
Licensed Home Daycare Providers
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A licensed home daycare provider meets or exceeds the guidelines and requirements set forth by the Iowa Department of Human Services. This means the care provider and any other staff members have undergone criminal background and child abuse registry checks, and the facility has been inspected for health and safety compliance. Licensure is required for Iowa home daycares providing care to six or more children.
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Child Daycare Centers
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A child daycare center is a non-residential facility for childcare. Operating a child daycare center in Iowa without a license is a misdemeanor offense. An Iowa child daycare also must submit to inspection by the fire marshal, Department of Human Services and Department of Public Health. The center must have a director who meets the criteria set forth in the Iowa Department of Human Services Childcare Licensing Provider Handbook Regulations.
Preschools
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Preschools generally focus on kindergarten preparation and provide more educational structure than do child daycare centers. Preschools may require staff members to possess education certification, such as an associate degree in early childhood education. Lesson plans must meet Iowa early learning standards for ages birth through five years. Licensing requirements for an Iowa preschool are the same as those of a child daycare center.
School Daycares
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Some Iowa public schools and accredited private schools provide daycare facilities. In some high schools, students in enrolled in early childhood education courses may assist in providing childcare in order to fulfill class requirements. Daycares in school settings must be either licensed through the Iowa Department of Human Services or certified through the state board of education.
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