Why Do Licensing Violations Happen in Maryland Child Care Programs? - post

Running a child care program in Maryland means following many rules. These rules help keep children #safe, #healthy, and #happy. Even caring providers can get licensing violations. Most violations happen because of missed paperwork, #staff training gaps, or simple daily habits.

The good news? Most violations are easy to avoid when you know what to look for. Below are the top 10 child care licensing violations in Maryland and clear, simple ways to prevent them.

1. Are Staff Training Requirements Up to Date?

Common issue:
Staff do not complete required training hours or miss important topics.

How to avoid it:

• Track training hours for every staff member

• Schedule training #early each year

• Keep certificates in a staff file

Helpful training:

• 45-Hour Director Administration Training

• 9-Hour Communication Course

Help Resource:

The Group Admin Portal offers helpful tools and information to support daily leadership decisions.

Staying trained protects your license and your team. #ChildCareTraining

2. Are Staff-to-Child Ratios Always Correct?

Common issue:
Too many children for the number of staff present.

How to avoid it:

• Know Maryland ratio rules by age group

• Have a plan for staff breaks and absences

• Keep daily #attendance records updated

Tip: Always plan for one extra staff member when possible.

3. Is Required Documentation Complete and Available?

Common issue:
Missing or outdated paperwork during inspections.

Documents inspectors often check:

• Child enrollment forms

• Emergency contact information

• Staff records and training logs

• Attendance sheets

How to avoid it:

• Use a checklist for required forms

• Review files monthly

• Store documents in one safe place

4. Are Health and Safety Practices Being Followed Every Day?

Common issue:
Unsafe conditions or missed #safety steps.

Examples:

• Cleaning supplies left unlocked

• Choking hazards within reach

• Playground safety issues

How to avoid it:

• Do daily safety checks

• Train staff on safety routines

• Fix problems right away

Safety is not just for inspections—it is for every day. #ChildCareSafety

5. Are Emergency Plans Clear and Practiced?

Common issue:
Emergency plans are missing, outdated, or staff do not know them.

Maryland requires plans for:

• Fire

• Evacuation

• Shelter-in-place

• Medical emergencies

How to avoid it:

• Post #emergency plans in each room

• Practice drills with staff and children

• Update plans when staff or building changes happen

6. Are Medication Administration Rules Being Followed?

Common issue:
Medication given without proper forms or training.

How to avoid it:

• Only trained staff give medication

• Always get written #parent permission

• Label and store medication correctly

• Log every dose given

Clear medication rules protect children and staff.

7. Is Supervision Consistent at All Times?

Common issue:
Children are left alone or not watched closely.

High-risk times include:

• Playground time

• Bathroom breaks

• Transitions between activities

How to avoid it:

• Assign clear supervision roles

• Count children often

• Stay alert—no phones or distractions

8. Are Programs Inclusive and ADA-Compliant?

Common issue:
Programs do not meet requirements for children with disabilities.

How to avoid it:

• Learn about ADA requirements

• Make reasonable accommodations

• Communicate openly with families

Helpful training:

• Including All Children and the Americans with Disabilities Act

Inclusion builds trust with families and strengthens your program. #InclusiveChildCare

9. Are Physical Space and Equipment Safe and Approved?

Common issue:
Rooms or #outdoor spaces do not meet licensing standards.

Examples:

• Crowded rooms

• Broken equipment

• Poor room layout

How to avoid it:

• Keep spaces clean and organized

• Repair or remove broken items

• Follow approved capacity limits

Helpful resource:

• Planning a Child Care Facility

10. Are Providers Staying Updated on Maryland Regulation Changes?

Common issue:
Rules change, but programs do not update their practices.

How to avoid it:

• Read updates from MSDE

• Attend training regularly

• Follow trusted child care education sources

Related article:

• What Are the Recent and Upcoming Changes to Maryland Child Care Regulations?

Staying informed helps you avoid surprise violations. #MarylandChildCare

How Can ChildCareEd Help You Stay Compliant?

ChildCareEd supports Maryland providers with:

• Easy-to-understand training

• Online courses you can take anytime

• Resources written for real child care professionals

Following the rules does not have to feel #stressful. With the right support, you can feel confident and prepared.

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