Which of the following is NOT considered a caregiver for the purposes of the child/caregiver ratio?

• A. Foster parent
• B. Employee with direct care duties
• C. Volunteer providing direct supervision
• D. Adoptive parent not providing direct care

Answer: (D)

Understanding who counts toward the child/caregiver ratio is key. The ratio is based on people who actually provide direct care or direct supervision of the child. A foster parent is directly caring for the child, so they count. An employee who has direct care duties is also providing care, so they count. A volunteer who directly supervises children is actively supervising, so they count as well. An adoptive parent not providing direct care isn’t performing care or supervision tasks for the child, so they aren’t counted toward the caregiver ratio. The focus of the ratio is on those who directly care for or supervise the child, not every household member. If the adoptive parent did provide direct care, they would be included.