Business Plan for Child Care Center

Creating a business plan for a child care center is a detailed process, but does not have to be complex. Here are some basics.

Principal

Business plans for a child care center include related educational and professional experiences that define your qualifications for working with children. Clearance from a Child Protective Services agency proves you have never been party to child abuse or neglect.

Need

To explain why your community needs a child care center, discuss the ratio of elementary and preschools to existing day care providers. Compare the rates, hours of operation and locations for existing day care providers with your plans.

Structure

When creating a business plan for a child care center, include the chain of command and professional requirements for lead care givers, assistant caregivers and volunteers. Include how parents can voice concerns.

Policies

Explain how fees are charged, hours of operation, late pick-up and early drop-off penalties, unexpected closing procedures, privacy and safety measures, dietary provisions and emergency procedures.

Finances

Discuss how many children will need to be cared for by your center each week to cover expenses for food, electricity and staffing. Explain how your center will grow over the next three to five years.

Resources

• U.S. Small Business Administration
• Business plan workbook
• Business plan template