How to Start a Babysitting Service

Good, reliable childcare is always in demand. With the right clients, organization and a few educational toys, you can start your own successful babysitting service.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Childcare license
• Insurance

1. Determine what type of babysitting service you are going to offer. Select the age ranges for which you will provide care. Also, determine the hours of operation for your childcare service. Most services are open during the day but, you could elect to provide evening hours or even 24-hour service.
2. Acquire the necessary licenses, if applicable, for your local area. Find out what type of license is needed for you to care for children in your home or in someone else's home.
3. Get business, childcare or relevant insurance for your business in cases of accidents. Be prepared for this in case your client's insurance doesn't cover certain accidents or injuries. This will most likely prevent lawsuit or civil judgment payouts.
4. Place fliers or advertisements around the neighborhood. Attach a flier to the sides of mailboxes. Find out if your local school will let you advertise. Put up ads for your business wherever you think parents might congregate including local toy stores, shops carrying children's book and children's clothing stores.
5. Put a classified ad in the newspaper about your babysitting service.
6. Ask for referrals from your church organization. Find out who in the church is in need of babysitting services.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, always keep the children in your home. This will allow you to control the environment better.
• Be sure to increase your auto liability and personal property insurance if you will be transporting children.