How to State Certify a Home Daycare

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Home daycare providers are a growing trend. Convenient hours of operation and a personal commitment to childcare are characteristics that make home daycare a popular choice. Certifying a home daycare operation varies state-to-state. An easy procedure, certification offers benefits to the provider and the client.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Understand that the procedure for certifying a home daycare operation is different in each state. Contact the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education at (800) 598-5437 for the specific procedures in your state.
Step 2

Realize that the general procedure to certify a home daycare involves completing an application and paying any applicable fees. The state may inspect the daycare site to ensure it meets safety standards. You may also be required to attend training.
Step 3

Know the benefits of being a licensed, certified home daycare. Providers may be eligible for reimbursements for food programs, may be able to apply for grants to improve the daycare facility and may receive tax deductions. There is also the benefit of offering perspective clients the knowledge that the business is legitimate.

Tips & Warnings

Although it is not always required in each state, becoming a licensed daycare provider (going above and beyond state certification) is a good step to take because being regulated by the state offers security to the daycare provider and the parents of the children in the daycare.
Follow state certification procedures. Not abiding by the laws governing home daycare centers is not only illegal but dangerous to you and the children in your care.

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