How to Open a Daycare in Wyoming

Opening a daycare in Wyoming can be a rewarding opportunity for those passionate about early childhood education and care. However, child care businesses are regulated at the state level, requiring providers to obtain a license and adhere to specific safety and operational standards. The Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) oversees child care licensing to ensure compliance with state laws and quality care for children.

This guide outlines the essential steps to opening a daycare in Wyoming, including licensing requirements, regulations for home-based and center-based care, and resources to help you establish a successful childcare business.

Do You Need a Childcare License in Wyoming?

Yes, in Wyoming, you need a license to operate a childcare facility, unless you meet the criteria for an exempt program. Wyoming recognizes two main types of licensed child care facilities:

Family Child Care Homes (FCCH): Care provided in a caregiver's residence for up to 10 children, including the provider’s own children under 13.
Child Care Centers (CCC): Facilities providing care for more than 10 children in a non-residential setting.

Exemptions from licensing include care provided by relatives, babysitting arrangements, or programs operating less than two hours per day. If you plan to care for multiple children on a regular basis, you will likely need a license.

Childcare Licensing Requirements in Wyoming

The Wyoming Department of Family Services outlines specific requirements for obtaining a childcare license, which vary depending on whether you are operating a Family Child Care Home (FCCH) or a Child Care Center (CCC).

For Family Child Care Home Providers:

The provider must be at least 18 years old.
Must complete pre-service training, including health and safety courses.
Background checks, including fingerprinting, for all household members over 18.
Home inspections to ensure compliance with fire, sanitation, and safety codes.
Annual training requirements for continued education in child care.

Family Child Care Home Capacity Requirements:

A maximum of 10 children, including the provider’s own children under 13.
If caring for more than two children under 24 months, an additional staff member may be required.

For Child Care Centers:

Directors must have formal early childhood education or relevant experience.
Staff-to-child ratios must be maintained:
- Infants (0-12 months): 1 caregiver per 4 infants.
- Toddlers (12-36 months): 1 caregiver per 6 children.
- Preschoolers (3-5 years): 1 caregiver per 10 children.
- School-age (5+ years): 1 caregiver per 15 children.
Facility must pass health, fire, and safety inspections.
All staff must pass background checks and complete health and safety training.

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Childcare Provider in Wyoming

Once you determine the type of daycare you want to open, follow these steps to obtain your license and launch your business:

Create a Business Plan: Outline your daycare’s mission, services, and budget in a business plan.
Complete Required Training: Wyoming requires pre-service training in health and safety, CPR, and first aid.
Submit an Application: Applications are processed through Wyoming’s Department of Family Services (DFS).
Pass Background Checks: Fingerprinting and criminal history checks are mandatory for providers and household members.
Pass Home or Facility Inspections: Your home or center must meet Wyoming’s safety, health, and fire regulations.
Hire Qualified Staff: If operating a larger facility, you must recruit and hire staff. ensure your staff meets state educational and background check requirements.
Establish a Curriculum: Align with Wyoming’s early childhood education guidelines.
Market Your Daycare: Claim and advertise your business on platforms like Winnie to reach parents in your area.
Enroll Children and Open Your Doors: Finalize contracts, policies, and safety measures before welcoming children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a degree to open a daycare in Wyoming?

For Family Child Care Homes, a degree is not required. However, for Child Care Center directors, Wyoming requires early childhood education credentials or relevant experience.

What certifications do I need to open a daycare in Wyoming?

Required certifications include pediatric CPR/First Aid, health and safety training, and pre-service training approved by the Department of Family Services.

What is the process for completing a full national fingerprint criminal background check?

Each individual must complete the CCL-108 fingerprint cover letter and submit it along with fingerprint cards and a cashier’s check or money order to the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS). DFS processes the request through the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and determines eligibility based on state exclusionary rules.

What criminal convictions would disqualify me from working in a child care facility?

Wyoming excludes individuals from working in child care if they have convictions or pending deferred prosecution for felonies related to child abuse, neglect, sexual offenses, violent crimes, drug offenses, or arson. Misdemeanor exclusions include violent misdemeanors against children or domestic violence offenses within the last five years.