Every state sets a maximum number of kids one teacher can watch — and a maximum group size per room. Most parents (and new operators) don't know the number off the top of their head. Pick your state, pick the age band, enter the room — get an instant pass/fail with the rule citation.
On a tour, count how many kids are in the room and how many adults. Plug it in here. If the room is over the licensed limit, that's a red flag — ask the director why. Bring the rule citation as proof.
Sketching out classrooms? Each age band has its own ratio and group-size cap. Run scenarios here to see how many caregivers you'll need per room — before you commit to a floor plan or a hiring plan.
Most directors know the rule cold. But staff transitions, sub-teacher swaps, and end-of-day combine moves drift the ratio. Use this as a quick re-confirm — and grab the printable wall poster for your sign-in sheet.
No spreadsheets. No PDF lookups. Three inputs, one answer, plus the official citation so you can show your inspector.
Each state's licensing rule is different. We've pulled and verified the current ratio table from each state's licensing agency.
Infants, toddlers, preschool — the licensed ratio changes by age. Pick the band for the room you're checking.
How many children, how many caregivers. Tool returns instant pass/fail with the rule citation and source URL.