Wisconsin Daycare Ratios and Maximum Group Sizes

Wisconsin group child care center ratios

This table is scheduled to change on August 1, 2027 under 2025 Wisconsin Act 15. Check the current rule before relying on these figures.

Source

These figures come from Table DCF 251.055 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.

Last verified: October 2026

Rules that can change these numbers

For mixed-age groups, the ratio is adjusted on a pro rata basis by the ages of the children; the state provides a Staff-to-Child Ratio Worksheet for this. When infants and toddlers are part of a mixed-age group, the group may not exceed 8. Maximum group size does not apply during naps, field trips, outdoor play, or in areas used only for eating, but ratios still apply for awake children.

Track staff-to-child ratios in Caredence

Caredence compares the children checked in to each classroom with the staff checked in to that room, using the children-per-staff limit your center sets for the room, and shows an over-ratio warning when there aren't enough staff. It doesn't apply state rules automatically, so use the figures above to choose each room's limit.

Check another location with the state ratio calculator, or see how Caredence supports daycare compliance.

For a national overview, read the staff-to-child ratios by state guide.