Tennessee child care staff-to-child ratios
Maximum children per caregiver and group size by age band. This page isolates the configured Tennessee figures, related explanations, and primary source links from the full licensing guide.
Cited to TDHS Rules 1240-04-01Verified June 2026Summary only, not legal advice
| Age group | Ratio | Max group |
|---|---|---|
| 6 weeks to 15 months1 mo–15 mo | 1:4 | 8 |
| 12 to 30 months1 yr–30 mo | 1:6 | 12 |
| 24 to 35 months2 yr–35 mo | 1:7 | 14 |
| 3 years3 yr–47 mo | 1:9 | 18 |
| 4 years4 yr–59 mo | 1:13 | 20 |
| 5 years5 yr–71 mo | 1:16 | 20 |
| School-age6 yr and up | 1:20 | None |
- 6 weeks to 15 months1 mo–15 mo1:4Max group: 8
- 12 to 30 months1 yr–30 mo1:6Max group: 12
- 24 to 35 months2 yr–35 mo1:7Max group: 14
- 3 years3 yr–47 mo1:9Max group: 18
- 4 years4 yr–59 mo1:13Max group: 20
- 5 years5 yr–71 mo1:16Max group: 20
- School-age6 yr and up1:20Max group: None
Tennessee ratio calculator
Enter how many children you have in each age group to see the minimum number of caregivers Tennessee requires.
Estimates the legal minimum from each group's ratio and assumes single-age groupings. Mixed-age rooms must use the youngest child's ratio, and other rules (naptime, ages turning over) can change staffing. Always confirm against the official Tennessee regulations.
Citation: TDHS Rules 1240-04-01
Tennessee staff-to-child ratios FAQ
What is the staff-to-child ratio for infants in Tennessee?
For infants aged 6 weeks to 15 months, Tennessee requires one educator for every four children (1:4) with a maximum group size of 8. Ratios tighten and loosen by age across the full age bands; see the ratio table on this page for every group.
How many annual training hours are required for staff?
An educator must complete 12 ongoing training hours each year, including 6 hours of health and safety and 3 hours of literacy. A single-site director completes 24 ongoing annual hours. Safe-sleep and medication-administration training are also required.
Disclaimer: These figures summarize TDHS Rules Chapter 1240-04-01 for convenience; operators should confirm current requirements directly with the Tennessee Department of Human Services before making licensing decisions. This page is a summary for informational purposes only and is not legal or compliance advice. Confirm with Tennessee Department of Human Services, Child Care Services.