How to Start a Child Care / Daycare Center
The majority of self-employed workers in the child care industry operate a family child care center, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Family child care services offer emotional, physical and nutritional support to preschool and school-aged children. Caring for infants, toddlers and preteens requires knowledge and skill. Each state requires that child care providers complete a minimum level of education and obtain licensing.
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Instructions
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Write a business plan. Your plan should include a summary of the business, the age group of the children you intend to serve, marketing and advertising techniques, financing, and a profile of the parents, at minimum. Your business plan will serve as the foundation of your business, provide guidance and evolve as your business grows. You can review business plan templates at the Small Business Administration website.
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Contact your state's division of child care licensing. Each state requires persons offering child care to non-relative children to complete the licensing process. Licenses require a specific number of training hours regulated by the state. Furthermore, if you open a day care center, you need to request information about the center's structure including the maximum number of children per teacher and the director's responsibilities and education.
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Select an appropriate site. Day care centers are established outside the owner's home. Home care centers use existing space in the owner's residence. Make sure your selected location meets your state's safety and size regulations. If you select a facility other than your home, you must make sure it meets the municipal zoning regulations.
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Enroll in training courses at an educational institution approved by the state's board. Visit your state's licensing website for further information.
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Enroll in the appropriate courses. Typically, child care providers must complete at least 24 clock hours of child development, sudden infant death syndrome, medical and nutritional training. Furthermore, you may need training in CPR, which your Red Cross or community college can provide.
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Select a name for your business and register with your state's business registration division. Conduct a business name search, request an application and submit the required fee.
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Choose an age-appropriate curriculum. Your state's department of education can provide guidance on selecting the right education system for the children.
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Create a nutritious meal plan. You can draw from your nutrition training to select the most appropriate foods.
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Request an inspection of the center, per licensing division requirements. Prepare for the inspection by ensuring all locks work, lighting is appropriate, the location is child-proof and there is ample space for the children to conduct activities, eat their meals and sleep.
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Market your business using word of mouth, brochures and advertisements. List your business with your state's child care resource for parents.
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Tips & Warnings
Apply to accept the state's child care subsidy. The program pays child care fees on behalf of participating parents.
Contact your state to request information on supplemental food programs. These programs provide food at reduced rates for child care providers.
References
Resources
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