How to start a preschool in Vermont

Starting a preschool or early-years setting in Vermont is a deeply rewarding venture, contributing significantly to the well-being and development of the state's children. Future providers will interact closely with the Vermont Department for Children and Families, Child Development Division (CDD), which is the primary licensing authority for all child care programs in the Green Mountain State. The CDD is committed to ensuring that all regulated programs meet minimum standards for health, safety, positive growth, and educational experiences. Vermont's regulatory framework for center-based child care and preschool programmes is designed to reflect current scientific evidence on child development, industry standards, and the evolving landscape of early childhood services. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for establishing a compliant and thriving early learning environment in Vermont, from understanding licensing regulations to securing necessary funding and navigating the application process.

Regulations

Health safety: Vermont's regulations prioritise safeguarding children's health and safety. Programs must have robust safeguarding policies. Protocols for medication administration, immunisation tracking, and illness exclusion are clearly defined to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Comprehensive incident reporting procedures are also mandatory. These regulations embody an understanding of current scientific evidence related to child health and development, aiming to provide a wholesome and safe environment for all children in care.

Licensing overview: The CDD licenses Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs, Family Child Care Homes, and Afterschool Child Care Programs. The licensing process is divided into three phases, each focusing on different aspects of program establishment and compliance. Phase I involves establishing the business entity. Phase II includes a visit from a licensor to review the potential location and business plan, culminating in the submission of a completed application. Phase III involves a final site visit to assess compliance with regulations, leading to a recommendation for licensure. Programs are regularly inspected to ensure ongoing adherence to health, safety, and educational standards. These regulations are minimum requirements and programs are encouraged to exceed them.

Licensing authority: Vermont Department for Children and Families, Child Development Division (CDD)

Staff qualifications: A bill currently working its way through the Vermont Legislature proposes new individual licensing and three tiers for child care providers. Entry-level applicants would need a credential with at least 120 hours of training, while the top level would require a bachelor's degree. This aims to professionalise the sector and improve safety. Current regulations mandate specific qualifications and experience for lead teachers and assistants, including educational backgrounds relevant to early childhood development. All staff must undergo thorough background checks, and ongoing professional development is a continuous requirement to ensure they remain updated with best practices and regulatory changes.

Facility requirements: Facilities must meet specific standards for physical environment and safety, detailed in the Licensing Regulations for Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs. These include requirements for adequate indoor and outdoor space per child, adherence to fire and safety codes, and ratios for essential fixtures. The regulations ensure that the physical setting promotes the well-being, positive growth, and development of children. Regular inspections assess compliance with these requirements, covering aspects from structural integrity to sanitation and accessibility.

Curriculum requirements: Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs must provide a program of developmental activities, or curriculum, that ensures wholesome growth and educational experiences. These activities should be developmentally appropriate, reflecting how children learn and develop. While a specific mandated framework like Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) or the National Quality Framework (NQF) is not explicitly named as a singular framework, the regulations require a curriculum that aligns with principles of early childhood education to foster positive growth and development. The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) could be integrated if it meets the developmental activity requirements.

Startup costs

Startup costs vary significantly based on the size and type of the facility. A small home-based operation might incur costs primarily for modifications, initial supplies, and licensing fees. A larger, purpose-built centre for 60-100 children would involve substantial expenses for property acquisition or long-term lease, construction or extensive renovation, considerable equipment, and a larger initial staffing complement. Operating costs are driven by staff salaries, rent/mortgage, utilities, food, educational supplies, and insurance. The higher end reflects expenses for premium facilities with extensive programmes and amenities.

Timeline

1. Review Licensing Regulations (1-2 months): Thoroughly review the 'Licensing Regulations for Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs' provided by the Vermont Department for Children and Families, Child Development Division (CDD). Understanding these regulations is critical as they outline the minimum standards for health, safety, and educational experiences.

2. Complete Application Phase I (Business Entity) (2-3 months): This phase focuses on establishing the legal business entity for your proposed child care program. It involves tasks such as registering your business, obtaining necessary clearances, and preparing foundational business documentation. Consult the 'Resource Guide For Phase I' provided by the CDD for a step-by-step process.

3. Complete Application Phase II (Location and Business Plan Review) (3-4 months): In Phase II, a CDD licensor will visit your potential program location to review its suitability and discuss your comprehensive business plan. This phase is crucial for ensuring your proposed site meets physical environment and safety standards. Following the visit, you will submit a complete application package.

4. Complete Application Phase III (Final Compliance Assessment) (2-3 months): The final phase involves a conclusive visit from a CDD licensor who will assess your full compliance with all licensing regulations. The licensor will issue a site visit report, identify any required actions, and make a recommendation to a licensing supervisor. The supervisor will then conduct a final review and issue a licensing decision.

5. Staff Recruitment & Training (Ongoing): Begin the recruitment process for qualified staff, ensuring all candidates meet or exceed the educational and experience requirements set by the CDD. All staff must undergo background checks and complete any mandated training, including pediatric first aid and infant/child CPR. Continuous professional development is encouraged to maintain high standards of care and education.

6. Obtain Operating License (1-2 weeks): Once all requirements are met and the CDD licensing supervisor approves your application, your operating license will be issued. This signifies that your program is legally authorised to provide child care services in Vermont. Display your license prominently and adhere to all ongoing regulatory obligations.

Next steps: explore the IPC curriculum, read about preschool enrollment, or browse all start-a-preschool guides.

Frequently asked questions

Who regulates child care programs in Vermont?

The Vermont Department for Children and Families, Child Development Division (CDD) is the official licensing authority for all child care programs in the state. They are responsible for setting and enforcing the licensing regulations to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of children in out-of-home care. The CDD provides guidance manuals, FAQs, and offers support through a Licensor on Duty for any questions regarding regulations.

What are the different types of child care licenses in Vermont?

Vermont offers several types of child care licenses to accommodate different operating models. These include 'Licensing Regulations for Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs,' 'Licensing Regulations for Registered and Licensed Family Child Care Homes,' and 'Licensing Regulations for Afterschool Child Care Programs.' Each license type has specific regulations tailored to the environment and services offered, ensuring appropriate oversight for all settings.

Are there new training requirements for child care workers in Vermont?

Yes, a bill is currently under consideration in the Vermont Legislature that proposes new individual licensing requirements for child care workers. This includes a tiered system for providers' scope of practice, with entry-level positions requiring a credential with at least 120 hours of training, and the highest tier mandating a bachelor's degree. This initiative aims to professionalise the field and enhance child safety across all programs.

How can I get clarification on licensing regulations?

For any questions or clarification regarding the Child Care Licensing Regulations in Vermont, you can contact the Licensor on Duty (LOD) at 800-649-2642 (option 3) or via email at AHS.DCFCDDChildCareLicensing@vermont.gov. The CDD also welcomes comments on their rules for future revisions, demonstrating their commitment to clear, reasonable, and enforceable requirements that prioritise children and families.

What is Bright Futures Child Care Information System?

Bright Futures is the Vermont Child Care Information System, serving as a comprehensive resource for parents, early childhood and afterschool programs, and professionals. It provides up-to-date information on local child care options, and details about child care benefits, and serves as a platform for existing providers. It is an essential tool for navigating child care services and resources in Vermont, ensuring access to quality care.

What kind of curriculum is required for preschool programs in Vermont?

Vermont's regulations mandate that Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs implement a 'program of developmental activities' or curriculum. The aim is to provide developmentally appropriate care, education, protection, and supervision that ensure wholesome growth and educational experiences for children. While a specific named curriculum framework isn't dictated, the focus is on practices that align with current scientific evidence on how children learn and develop.