Licensed Daycare in Wisconsin
Search 2,379 verified daycare and childcare centers across Wisconsin, sourced directly from Wisconsin Department of Children and Families — Child Care Regulation. Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
Wisconsin Childcare Licensing
In Wisconsin, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families — Child Care Regulation. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:4 for infants under 12 months, 1:6 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:10 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.
Verify a license at Wisconsin Department of Children and Families — Child Care RegulationWhat's distinctive about Wisconsin: Wisconsin's YoungStar QRIS is rigorous (5-star scale). Wisconsin Shares serves families up to 200% federal poverty with sliding-scale copays.
Quick licensing facts
- Regulator
- Wisconsin Department of Children and Families — Child Care Regulation
- Infant ratio
- 1:4
- Toddler ratio
- 1:6
- Preschool ratio
- 1:10
- Avg infant cost
- $1,170/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $870/mo
Wisconsin Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
Wisconsin families can apply for Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy Program based on income and work/school status. Federal programs — the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, Dependent Care FSA ($5,000 cap), and Head Start — stack on top of state assistance.
Local intake line: (608) 422-7200
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Daycare in Wisconsin — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in Wisconsin is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Wisconsin?
How much does daycare cost in Wisconsin?
Are subsidies available for childcare in Wisconsin?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Wisconsin daycare?
Search 2,379 Licensed Wisconsin Centers
Free, no signup, filter by age and subsidy acceptance.