Things You'll Need:
- energy, patience, and love
- large space devoted for childcare
- toys, books, and music
- diapers and wipes
- sanitizing wipes
- healthy snacks/meals
- cribs/pack n' plays
- signed contract
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Step 1
Before you jump feet first, there are some things you should consider. Operating an in-home daycare is not as easy as some may think. Childcare providers often work long hours, have little or no breaks, change dirty diapers several times a day, multi-task and deal with stressful situations without losing their tempers, and patiently deal with crying children. However, all of your hard work can result in an extremely rewarding experience.
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Step 2
Once you decide that you are ready to start your own home childcare business, find out your state's laws in regard to being a provider. Different states have different laws mandating such things as the number of children you may watch and if you need to be licensed. Furthermore, consider becoming CPR and first-aid certified - many parents will search out providers with these extra qualifications.
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Step 3
Write out a contract to be signed by you and the parents. Include your salary requirements, the days/hours your childcare will be open, holidays the daycare will be closed, what will occur in case you are sick and unable to work, your rules for accepting an ill child into your care, and the amount of notice for termination of care. Consider a 2 week trial period with any new child to make sure that he/she is a good fit in your daycare and that both you and the family are happy with the situation.
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Step 4
Designate a child-friendly place in your home that will be devoted strictly to the daycare. Finished basements, play rooms, and large family rooms work well. Stock the room with age appropriate toys, books, and music. Make this room bright, comfy, and inviting for little ones. Also, determine where the children will nap and/or have quiet time. Take into consideration space for cribs, pack n' plays, and nap mats.
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Step 5
You are running your own business now, so you must advertise and promote it! Place an ad in your local newspaper, hang flyers in your pediatrician' s office or local grocery store, place a bulletin at your church. Websites like craigslist.com are a great tool as well. However, nothing beats word of mouth!
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Step 6
Have a weekly schedule planned so you and the children know what to expect. Include creative activities, outdoor play, quiet times and/or nap time, music and singing, arts and crafts, reading, hand washing, and snack/lunch times.
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Step 7
Keep two-way communication positive and frequent with parents. Most parents like an "end of day page" with such things as what their child did that day, bathroom details (wet/soiled diapers, how potty training is going), food/drink consumption, behavior, etc.
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Step 8
Have fun! You are helping to shape a child and there is no job more important.
Comments
mazong said
on 11/6/2009 Good info and comments! 5*
llparker said
on 10/13/2009 informative..thanks
emp04 said
on 8/31/2009 These are great tips. Just be sure that you are insured and licensed and that you run background checks on any other employees
kp3028 said
on 8/23/2009 Running a day care from your home is no different than being the business owner of any other type of business. GET licensed, get every certification you can that can help you attract clients, get insurance to cover YOUR own liability. Take no chances with your own future as well as the care you will give to others.