How to Become a Child Care Provider

Caring for young children is not easy.

Caring for young children is a great responsibility that requires a specialized skill set. Whether it is managing their diet and play or keeping them engaged with educative and entertaining activities, child care providers have to be equipped to deal with every aspect of child development. To become a child care provider, you will need to meet the qualifications and experience requirements specified by your state. These requirements vary depending on the type of child care you wish to provide and also your state of residence.

Instructions

1. Determine the type of child care work you wish to take up. Child care workers can work in three different settings: the child's home, the (provider's) home and a child care center. Educational requirements are most demanding if you wish to work with private child care centers or run your own private child care center as compared to the other two settings. Although it may be possible to work as a child care provider with even less than a high school diploma, higher educational qualification will make your services more prized. Map out your career path as a child care provider to decide the educational degree you need to acquire.

2. Check your state's regulations regarding the educational requirements to become a child care provider. Some states require a high school diploma wheras others look for a college degree in child development or early childhood education. Find your state's specific requirements by visiting the Department of Social Services website.

3. Take up a program that prepares you for providing child care. The Council for Professional Recognition offers a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential whereas the National Child Care Association offers a Certified Childcare Professional (CCP) credential. Visit the websites of these organizations to get more information regarding the eligibility criteria for these credentials.

4. Obtain additional qualifications that can make you a better child care provider. Take up courses in music, basic art and storytelling to help you engage children. Consider courses to develop communication skills that will help you deal with parents and other child care workers. Review the free online child care courses conducted by Brigham Young University and the University of Arkansas. Gain hands-on experience by babysitting for your family, friends and neighbors or helping out in your church's nursery.

5. Get information about your state's licensing requirements for child care providers from the state Department of Social Service. If you are planning to run a child care center you will need to obtain certification in first aid and CPR, and undergo a background check conducted by the Department of Justice to prove that you have never committed child abuse or any other criminal activity. All states will require you to undergo an orientation program as the first step toward licensure.

6. Attend the orientation program and gain more information about the procedure to obtain a license. Fill out the necessary application forms and submit the forms with the relevant documents and licensing fee specified by your state. Wait to receive your child care provider license.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Child Care Workers
• Washington State Legislature: What are the Requirements for Applying for a License to Operate a Child Care Center?
• Degree Directory: How Do I Become a Certified Child Care Provider?
• CV Tips: How to Become a Home Day Care Provider

Resources

• Council for Professional Recognition
• National Child Care Association
• Brigham Young University: BYU Independent Study
• University of Arkansas: Family Child Care Provider