Childcare facilities are a necessity; such facilities provide a safe and healthy environment for children of working parents, in addition to having an important role in child development; however, different types of facilities statewide are subject to varying levels of rules and regulations.
Childcare facilities are to be licensed through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and regulated through the Department of Social Services (DSS). All faith-based facilities and childcare facilities of no more than 6 children are exempt from licensure (RSMo 210.211).
DSS has very little oversight on licensed-exempt childcare facilities until a report of child abuse or neglect is made.
