Written by

Tara Farmer

July 30, 2025

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

How to open a daycare in Pennsylvania

Starting a daycare in Pennsylvania is a rewarding journey that lets you shape young lives while building a thriving business. Whether you dream of a cozy home daycare or a bustling child care center, this guide walks you through every step, from planning and licensing to opening your doors and attracting families.

Understanding daycare regulations in Pennsylvania

If you plan to care for four or more children who aren't related to you, you must be licensed by the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), under the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). This ensures your daycare meets health, safety, and educational standards.

There are three types of child care licenses in Pennsylvania—family child care homes, group child care homes, and child care centers—each with specific requirements outlined in state regulations.

All daycare types in Pennsylvania must obtain a Certificate of Compliance (license) before operating legally. Review the Pennsylvania Human Services Code (Title 55, Chapters 3270, 3280, and 3290) for the full regulatory details of the type of daycare you want to open:

• Family child care home: Chapter 3290

• Group child care home: Chapter 3280

• Child care center: Chapter 3270

Step 1: Research and plan

Before diving into setting up your new daycare, take time to research and plan:

• Explore your market: Look at local demographics, existing daycare options, and community needs. Identify what sets your future daycare apart. Maybe it's flexible hours, a bilingual program, or a focus on outdoor play.

• Create a business plan: Outline your mission, vision, target market, daily operations, staffing, financial projections, and marketing strategy. This plan is essential for keeping you focused and attracting funding or partners.

Step 2: Choose a legal structure

Decide how you'll structure your business:

• Sole proprietorship: Simple to start but leaves you personally liable for business debts

• LLC or Corporation: Offers liability protection but comes with more paperwork

• Nonprofit: If you plan to serve the community and seek grants

Consult a lawyer or accountant to choose the best fit for your goals and circumstances.

Step 3: Secure your location and zoning

Find a suitable location that meets zoning requirements for child care. If you're opening a home daycare, confirm your home is zoned for this use. For centers and group homes, check with your municipality about zoning and occupancy permits.

You'll also need to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy before applying for your license. This document from your local government proves your space is approved for child care use.

Step 4: Complete the required orientations

Pennsylvania mandates both online and in-person orientations for all daycare applicants. Start with the online orientation specific to your daycare type. You'll receive a digital certificate valid for 12 months.

Next, contact your regional OCDEL office to register for the in-person orientation. This certificate is also valid for one year, so plan your timeline accordingly.

Step 5: Complete pre-service training

As of January 1, 2025, all prospective daycare operators in Pennsylvania must complete 6 hours of pre-service training before receiving a Certificate of Compliance. This training covers crucial areas including:

• PA Required Health and Safety training:

  • Safe sleep practices, including reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome/Sudden Unexplained Infant Death (SIDS/SUID)

  • Infectious disease control and prevention (including immunizations)

  • Prevention of shaken baby syndrome, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment

  • Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions

• Pediatric First Aid & Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

• Recognition and Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect (Mandated Reporter Training)

Step 6: Gather documentation and submit your application

Prepare a thorough application package, including:

• Completed Form PW 633 (Certificate of Compliance Application)

• Business documentation (articles of incorporation, LLC registration, fictitious name approval, tax-exempt status if nonprofit)

• Civil Rights Compliance Approval letter

• Certificates from both orientations (valid for 12 months)

• Proof of completed pre-service training (including Mandated Reporter Training certificate)

• Criminal background checks for all staff

• First aid and CPR certifications

• Certificate of Occupancy from your municipality

• Proof of compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act

Submit your application to your regional OCDEL office. Incomplete applications can delay your license, so double-check every requirement.

Step 7: Prepare for inspection

Once your paperwork is in, the OCDEL will contact you within 3 to 4 weeks to schedule a pre-licensing inspection. During this appointment, inspectors will:

• Check your facility for health, safety, and program compliance.

• Review staff files, background checks, and training certificates.

• Ensure your space is clean, secure, and child friendly.

Address any issues promptly to avoid delays in opening.

Step 8: Secure funding

Consider funding options such as personal savings, small business loans, grants, or community support. Starting a daycare requires upfront investment in space, supplies, insurance, and staff. A solid business plan helps you make your case to lenders or investors.

Step 9: Develop your program and curriculum

Design a daily daycare schedule and learning program that supports children's development. Include:

• Age-appropriate activities (art, music, reading, outdoor play)

• A daycare menu with meals and snacks that meet nutritional guidelines

• Policies for health, safety, discipline, and emergencies

A well-structured program with clear routines and engaging activities reassures parents and helps children thrive.

Step 10: Hire and train staff

Building a qualified, caring team is essential for your daycare's success and regulatory compliance. Pennsylvania has specific requirements for staff qualifications, training, and ratios that you must understand and follow.

• Staff must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.

• All staff members need background checks and must demonstrate they have no record of child abuse or neglect.

• Each staff person must obtain a minimum of 12 clock hours of child care training annually.

• Training must be conducted by accredited institutions or professionally licensed entities.

Look for staff who share your passion for children's development. Offer competitive wages and benefits to attract and retain quality caregivers.

Child-to-staff ratios

Pennsylvania has specific staff-to-child ratios that vary by age group. The younger the children, the more staff required per classroom. These ratios are crucial for maintaining your license and ensuring quality care.

The table below shows the current ratio requirements for group child care homes and child care centers when grouping children at similar age levels. When a group of children has mixed age levels, use the ratio and size maximum for the youngest child's age.

For a family child care home:

• The provider may care for no more than 5 related and unrelated infants and toddlers at any one time.

• The provider may care for no more than 2 related and unrelated infants at any one time.

• Additional specifics for infant and toddler care:

  • If no infants, 5 toddlers are permitted.

  • If caring for 1 infant, 4 toddlers are permitted.

  • If caring for 2 infants, 3 toddlers are permitted.

Step 11: Market your daycare

Once you are licensed and ready to open, it's time to fill your daycare with happy families! Effective marketing strategies will help you connect with parents in your community and showcase what makes your daycare special.

• Creating your brand: Develop a memorable name, logo, and tagline that reflect your daycare's personality and values. Your brand should appeal to parents while accurately representing the care and education you provide.

• Establishing an online presence:

  • Create a professional website showcasing your facility, staff, curriculum, and policies.

  • Set up a profile on TrustedCare so locals searching for a daycare can easily find you.

  • Use social media to engage your community and update them on your daycare program.

  • Ask satisfied families to leave reviews on TrustedCare, Google, and Facebook to build trust and boost your search rankings.

• Community outreach: Partner with local pediatricians, family service organizations, and employers who might refer families to your program. Attend community events and health fairs to build awareness.

• Parent communication: Implement systems for regular communication with parents. Many modern daycares use apps that allow real-time updates, photos, and messaging between staff and families.

Staying compliant with a Pennsylvania daycare license

Maintaining your daycare license requires ongoing attention to regulations, quality standards, and renewal requirements. Staying compliant protects your business and ensures you continue providing safe, quality care. You'll maintain compliance by:

• Renewing your license as required

• Keeping up with staff training and background checks

• Documenting incidents, attendance, and health records

• Staying informed about regulation changes

Licensing rules and regulations are subject to change, so regularly review requirements to maintain compliance. Subscribe to updates from the OCDEL and attend training sessions when they're offered.

Annual renewal process

Pennsylvania daycare licenses are valid for 12 months and require annual renewal. DHS sends renewal notices 130 days before expiration. You must submit renewal information along with a Civil Rights Compliance Attestation form. A mandatory facility inspection is part of the renewal process.

Resources for Pennsylvania daycare owners

Running a successful daycare doesn't have to be a solo journey. Pennsylvania offers numerous resources, support systems, and professional development opportunities to help you succeed and grow your business.

• State resources

  • Pennsylvania's CONNECT Helpline: 1-800-692-7288 for child development information

  • Pennsylvania Child Care Association (PACCA) for professional development and advocacy

  • The Pennsylvania Key for official announcements and training resources

• Professional development

  • The TEACH (Teacher Education And Compensation Helps) Early Childhood® Scholarship Program provides educational opportunities for child care professionals. Take advantage of training opportunities to enhance your skills and meet continuing education requirements.

  • The Pennsylvania Keys to Professional Development (PA Key) partners with organizations to offer educational, professional, and administrative services to early childhood educators.

• Networking opportunities

  • Connect with other daycare providers in your area.

  • Join professional associations like PennAEYC and attend conferences to stay current with best practices and industry trends.

Your daycare can make a meaningful difference in your community while building a sustainable business. Take the first step today by researching your local market and contacting your regional OCDEL office. Your dream of starting a daycare in Pennsylvania is within reach!