How To Start a Daycare

[Interested]

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

[Michael]

Every state has differing standards when starting a daycare. Most require a license but not all depending on the number of children involved.

Please see your state's requirements and contact numbers located at:
http://www.daycare.com/states.html

Daycare Startup Guide Kit:
http://www.daycare.com/advertisers/startingadaycare/

Accredited Daycare Classes:
http://www.pennfoster.edu/urm.php?source=UDCA1ZT&url=http://www.pennfoster.edu/daycare-micro/index.html

Daycare Insurance:
http://daycare.com/advertisers/insurance/index.html

To add your Daycare listing Information to Daycare.com:
https://daycare.com/php/start_new_signup.php

[Interested]

I noticed a Daycare Starter Kit on the site. Is it worth purchasing?

[Michael]

It is in file format which means it is a file download and there is also a full had copy kit that can be delivered. It has been on the site for several years and many have used it to start their daycare. I believe for the price it is well worth it. You can find it here:
http://daycare.com/starting_a_daycare/index.html

I have started a daycare center in Oregon. There are various dept that get involved in this process.
The City Planning Dept to see if the area is Zoned for child care
The City Building Dept to see if the Building Code needs to be changed
The Health Dept
The Fire Dept
Check the City Planning Dept for what kind of sign you can post
The Child Care Division in your state.
Once all of the criteria from these Dept were met, then you can open your doors for business.
There is the USDA food program that helps pay for some of the food served.
There are a multitue of website for curriculum and art activities.
There are some websites of other center or homes that can give you ideas on how to start up your business.
I am not stating this to deter you from opening, just to give you a perspective of what needs to happen. It can vary from state to state.

The best of luck! It is a fun adventure.

Thanks this was good info

im 28 and i what open up a daycare what r some of the things i need...

[Michael]

Please see your state's requirements and contact numbers located at:
http://www.daycare.com/states.html

Daycare Startup Guide Kit:
http://www.daycare.com/advertisers/startingadaycare/

Daycare Open Forum:
http://www.daycare.com/forum

Daycare Insurance:
http://daycare.com/advertisers/insurance/index.html

Accredited Daycare Classes:
http://www.pennfoster.edu/urm.php?so...cro/index.html

To add your Daycare listing Information to Daycare.com:
https://daycare.com/php/start_new_signup.php

[joelietz]

Aside from knowing the regulations for starting a daycare and having an appropriate space you are going to need daycare furniture. Check out the other links for all of the regulations, etc. that you need and think about how suitable your space is for caring for children. Good Luck!

Originally Posted by aaliyah

im 28 and i what open up a daycare what r some of the things i need...

[mac60]

There are not too many of us home providers that can afford these kind of items. There are way more inexpensive alternatives to use.

my wife wants to start a daycare in lexington ky and she was wondering how much it cost to get it started without the lease of course. inspections and all

[Michael]

The Division of Regulated Child Care is responsible for licensing and investigating complaints against child day care programs, residential child caring facilities and child-placing agencies. The division also is responsible for certifying and investigating complaints against certified family child care homes.

To apply for a license to operate a child day care facility, residential child caring facility, a child-placing agency or a certification for a certified child care home please contact the Division of Regulated Child Care at (502) 564-7962.

Child day care facilities can be licensed as either Type I facilities or Type II facilities. If care is provided in a dwelling for 13 or more children or in a non-dwelling for four or more children, the facility is a Type I. If care is provided in a dwelling (which is your home) for up to 12 children, the facility is considered a Type II. The fee for initial licensing for both Type I and Type II facilities is $50. The annual license renewal fee is $25.

The licensing fee for residential child caring and child-placing facilities is $100 for initial licensing and $50 for the annual renewal.
The certification fee for a certified family child care home is $10.

The regional offices of the Division of Regulated Child Care are responsible for conducting on-site visits of all licensed child care facilities and certified homes in the state to determine compliance with applicable licensing and certification regulations. Complaints concerning these facilities and certified homes are investigated by regional office staff.

what certificates and training do you need to open a daycare? do you need a degree in early childhood? cda? 40 hrs? directors license?

[Michael]

Please see your state's requirements and contact numbers located at:
http://www.daycare.com/states.html

Originally Posted by Michael

Please see your state's requirements and contact numbers located at:
http://www.daycare.com/states.html

Hi I just have a question maybe you can answer this I have my CDA i had work as a part time at some daycare facilities but i had always work as a manager at a rest, unfurnately i got layoff from work an i have decided to open a daycare what other certificates do i need i do know that i need to have my credential is that all i need excluding all the permits

[leg828@hotmail.com]

I have been very enthused to start a child care facility of my own. I am proficient in Licensing regulations, day-to-day operations, staffing, etc. I have an education degree, not business! I am finding it difficult to decide what the best financial route is to take for my situation. I do not plan to have In-home care. I am definitely planning to provide out of a specific child care facility. I am hopeful for any advice from Leasing/Renting to Owning, but mostly where to start looking for outside financing to get started. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE.

Originally Posted by Interested

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

I am interested in starting my own day care in westbury/new york, can you please tell me some of the things I need to know

I'm a 16 year old Female who lives in Florida. I am currently a Junior in High School and have decided to be a childcare provider after school. I want to open my own daycare facility, but have no idea where to start. I have taken Early Child Development in school and am currently in level 2-3 which is mostly assisting in running the preschool on grounds. In level 1 I took the Florida state tests for Pre-school Appropriate Practices, Behavioral Observation and Screening, Child Growth and Development, Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect, Health Safety and Nutrition, and Child Care Facility Rules and Regulations. I passed them all and have the certificates. Soon I will be taking the Infant/Toddler test to get certified for those ages as well. I am starting to look for a job in a local child care facility. What do I need to do to start my own daycare and are there any other certificates or classes that I need to take? Thanks for you help.

[zosim]

Hi All,

I'm happy I encountered this forum. Thanks to all for the great info. I am planning on starting a daycare as well (in South NJ). Almost all of the resources I've looked at pretty much say the same thing... read the licensing requirements of the state first. But what seems to be missing for me is the fact that like in NJ, the first thing the licensing agency requires you to do is to find a location and then get a certificate of occupancy from that location.

How do you do that? If you need to find a location first, does that mean I need to:

1. Find a location
2. Have it inspected if it is feasible to be a daycare center
3. Talk to the municipal zoning board to see if it's zoned for childcare. if not, try to meet the requirements to get the zoning class you need.
4. To get the zone class changed, you'd need to hire an architect to design a plan for your daycare. The plan should meet all state regulation requirements.
5. Once you have an architectural plan, do you submit that first to the licensing board to get it approved, or do you go to the municipal board to get it approved?
6. While all of these are happening, will the landlord be patient enough to let you do all of this? I'm assuming there will be a clause in the lease contract that committing to the lease is dependent on whether a license will be issued by the state.

These are what I've understood as what needs to be done to even get to a point of getting the state to look into your request to get a license. Am I missing anything or have made some incorrect assumptions?

I hope those who have successfully opened a commercial daycare center can provide some insights.

Thanks!

[Michael]

Caregivers in charge of a group: Must be at least 18 and must complete the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services approved introductory training course.

Introductory Training http://www.daycare.com/florida/training.html

http://www.daycare.com/florida.html

Daycare Startup Guide Kit:
http://www.daycare.com/advertisers/startingadaycare/

Daycare Open Forum:
http://www.daycare.com/forum

Daycare Insurance:
http://daycare.com/advertisers/insurance/index.html

Accredited Daycare Classes:
http://www.pennfoster.edu/urm.php?so...cro/index.html

To add your Daycare listing Information to Daycare.com:
https://daycare.com/php/start_new_signup.php

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I'm a 16 year old Female who lives in Florida. I am currently a Junior in High School and have decided to be a childcare provider after school. I want to open my own daycare facility, but have no idea where to start. I have taken Early Child Development in school and am currently in level 2-3 which is mostly assisting in running the preschool on grounds. In level 1 I took the Florida state tests for Pre-school Appropriate Practices, Behavioral Observation and Screening, Child Growth and Development, Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect, Health Safety and Nutrition, and Child Care Facility Rules and Regulations. I passed them all and have the certificates. Soon I will be taking the Infant/Toddler test to get certified for those ages as well. I am starting to look for a job in a local child care facility. What do I need to do to start my own daycare and are there any other certificates or classes that I need to take? Thanks for you help.

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[Carole's Daycare]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I'm a 16 year old Female who lives in Florida. I am currently a Junior in High School and have decided to be a childcare provider after school. I want to open my own daycare facility, but have no idea where to start. I have taken Early Child Development in school and am currently in level 2-3 which is mostly assisting in running the preschool on grounds. In level 1 I took the Florida state tests for Pre-school Appropriate Practices, Behavioral Observation and Screening, Child Growth and Development, Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect, Health Safety and Nutrition, and Child Care Facility Rules and Regulations. I passed them all and have the certificates. Soon I will be taking the Infant/Toddler test to get certified for those ages as well. I am starting to look for a job in a local child care facility. What do I need to do to start my own daycare and are there any other certificates or classes that I need to take? Thanks for you help.

Check out your local rules, but to run a licensed daycare most places require you to be 18. It sounds like you are very well prepared educationally thus far. Make sure you have First Aid/CPR. I added training on the Epi-pen because of the increasing numbers of kids w/ allergies. Some experience in another daycare will help you prepare and give you more ideas on specific further training. In running your own center, you want a full range of training on supporting early literacy, ITTI or Infant Toddler Intensive Trainings if you will accept children under two, perhaps some further training in identifying and working with children w/ specific disabilities suh as ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Sensory Integration etc. You also should have training on record keeping and taxes (Redleaf Press/Tom Copeland is a great resource) and dealing w/ employees. Most licensed centers provide meals, so of course nutrition training and food handling practices will be necessary.Your licensing will require a certain number of hours of continued training each year- but each state varies so refer to the administrators resources on your own state's regulations. Your school district may have an after school/vacation daycare program you could apply at to gain experience in the field while you finish High School.

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I'm a 16 year old Female who lives in Florida. .

I'm not sure if it's the same in all states but at least here in California you have to be at least 18 years old to have your own daycare. You can work for a licenced daycare but to start your own I'm almost sure you have to be over age. You should try contacting your states local licensing office for all of the details. Mosts states offer a workshop that gives you all of the information you'll need to open your own up, including CPR and preventative health practices.

[itcgnyc]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I am interested in starting my own day care in westbury/new york, can you please tell me some of the things I need to know

My Company specializes in New Center Development for developers and individuals interested in opening a daycare/childcare center in NYC and Long Island. Are you looking at opening a childcare center or group family daycare? Have you secured your financial backing and found a location? I can certainly help you. The very first thing you will need to do aside of the prior two things is read through the OCFS Rules and Regulations; they can be found at http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/chi...ycare_regs.asp be sure you read the correct ones, as there are separate ones for group family vs. childcare centers. My Company can assist you with a free consultation/site viability meeting and then we can further discuss how we can further help with your project.
Cindy O'Neill, Island Training & Consulting Group cindy@itcgnyc.com

I would like to open a Home Day Care in NC for 1 or 2 children (age group 2-3 years). I have myself 2 children (2 and 11 years). I am German and I don't really understand the page of the Licening standards for NC. It says: "Number of Children Allowed: 3-5 (plus 3 SAC)". Does it mean that I don't need a license and can start right away? How much of a weekly rate can I expect for one week?

SAC means "School-Age Care". The family ratio with School-age children for you seems to fit. You are within the regulations for cared children with your own included. You WOULD need a license. I am not sure of rates for your area. I would do a search on daycare.com using the zip code in your area and inquire as if you were looking to find care for your own children.

http://www.daycare.com/listing.html

Child Care Licensing Agency
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Division of Child Development
Regulatory Services Section
2201 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-2201
Phone: (919) 662-4499
Toll Free: (800) 859-0829 (within State)
Fax: (919) 661-4845

I live in north carolina and I already have an in home daycare. By the end of the year I will be married and we are moving to Georgia. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina and have a 3 star rating. Will this mean anything to state of georgia. I mean can I transfer licenses and all the classes I have to take to the state of Georgia or will I have to start at a one star again once I move. And if so why. I have been in business for 3 years and will have a diploma in Early Childhood Education by the end of the year. How would I get started?

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I live in north carolina and I already have an in home daycare. By the end of the year I will be married and we are moving to Georgia. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina and have a 3 star rating. Will this mean anything to state of georgia. I mean can I transfer licenses and all the classes I have to take to the state of Georgia or will I have to start at a one star again once I move. And if so why. I have been in business for 3 years and will have a diploma in Early Childhood Education by the end of the year. How would I get started?

What did you have to do to start your daycare??? Did you have to go to college for it? (like is college required?)

[Bryce Polk]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

What did you have to do to start your daycare??? Did you have to go to college for it? (like is college required?)

Hello,

My name is Bryce Polk and I would just like to welcome you. Glad to have you as a fellow member.

I know as person just beginning the adventure of daycare ownership your mind is flooding with a sea of questions & concerns. At least I know mine was when I first started.. .

*What classes do I need to take?
*How do I promote & advertise my daycare to acquire customers?
*Do I need any certifications or permits?
*How many children can I legally take in?
*How much should I charge?
*Where do I even start?

Well fortunately for you I can sum up in "3 words" why you already have a competitive advantage over most in the industry and why you already have half of what it takes to "successfully" run and manage a daycare center....

"YOURE A MOM!!!"

Furthermore anyone who is able to "successfully" raise children as a single parent already has the "Patience, Love, Disciple, Maturity and most imoportantly the Mindset" that its gonna take to grow and maintain their child care business.

As a successful business owner myself one thing I can guarantee you is that the success of any business owner, in any particular industry be it child care or opening a resturant is directly attributed to

"3 key principles".

1. Mindset
2. Education or Experience
3. Bussness Plan & Marketing Strategy

You already have the mindset down which is most imortant.

The "education" process is the most "time consuming". I spent countless hours on the computer researching, downloading, and studying the market and other marterials to acquire the neccessary skillset I needed to get our business where it is today.

Fortunately for you! You dont have to go through the same sleepless nights, and countless hours of research as I did.

"daycare.com" has provided you with an "inexpensive", "all-in-one", "grab bag", solution. It essentially compiles in an simple, easy-to-understand,step-by-step checklist "exactly" what you need to. As well as the neccesary prelimenary education and generic marketing materials you need to "get started".

Lastly the MARKETING,

This is one of the most important factors because this how you get customers to begin with. And the more customers, the more "profit you generate". It really just baffles my mind how most daycare owners never really "market" their business and they wonder why they can't get clients to enroll in their daycare.

"You can have all the education in the world, and the prettiest daycare center with huge playards."

"But if you're not fundamentally marketing you're business "properly", to be perfectly honest, you risk either going into debt or losing potential customers to the other competition."

Just like in any other business. My uncle is a perfect example. "Check out this website"http://daycaremarketingdomination.com/?p=115 to read how my uncle managed to BBQ a sure thing business and what you can do to avoid the costly mistakes he made.

On the other hand,

Any customer you do attain with proven effective marketing strategies will be "loyal to you for a lifetime". And I guarantee you that your bank teller will know you by name evry time you walk into your local bank. XO


Sincerely, Bryce Polk-President/AdministrativeDirector of Theresa's Creative Mind's Learning Center


P.S. Add me as a friend by clicking my name, then click "Add as friend" at the top : )
http://www.daycaremarketingdomination.com

Originally Posted by Interested

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

I am also interested in starting a daycare any idea on how to predict the number of students you can bring in each month.

[Michael]

Ratios are icluded. Here are the Licensing Standards listed on daycare.com: http://www.daycare.com/states.html

I live in Los Angeles and would like to get start with a day care what is the first thing I need to do?

I am looking for a sample of a Daycare Business Plan which will allow me to focus on the possibility of starting a Daycare Center in North Florida close to Thomasville, GA line. Can you email me one?
lucy_61 @ yahoo.com. Very school oriented city - most people are phd but not enough jobs anyway. People just love to learn. Planning to include after school tutoring program for the late working parents. Looking for a plan to extend to a personalized education system for up to 8th grade.
Any help?

Thanks,
Lucy

[Michael]

This one may get you started. http://www.firstbusiness.ca/guides/Daycare.pdf

There are a lot of forms. I am trying to start my own daycare and I have to go though all kinds of things like people coming here and looking my place over. You have to make sure you are really ready for this and your mind to it. If you really want to do it, you can.

Originally Posted by Interested

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

Legal issues should also be detailed in the business plan, as there are unique legal issues faced by day care business. As with insurance, it is important for the business owner to research any legal coverage that may be required before the business opens. For much more information on <a href="http://www.daycaresurvey.com/">day care business</a>...

Please help me to get start.I need kids age starting at 5mth to 6yrs. ago .

Thanks. This was very useful.

Happy Kidz daycare and learning center.
www.happykidzdaycare.com
Fremont, CA

[daycaremom1998]

Hi all,

I'm new to this forum, but I would like to jump in here if I may. I have owned an in-home daycare for a very long time. I always have friends asking me how they can start their own home daycare, and one thing that I always recommend that they do first is contact their city agency to see what their requirements are for home daycare. Yes, I agree that you need to know your state requirements, but if you don't meet your city requirements as well, you are really waisting your time.

I hope this helps.

[daycaremom1998]

I think I need to clarify the "contact your city agency" as mentioned in my above post. What I mean is that I recommend that people call their City Government usually located at City Hall and ask to speak to the department that handles small business licences. Once transfered to this department, you can ask questions about what the requirements are in your city for having a daycare in your home.

Sorry, I just felt I needed to clarify this a little more.

Originally Posted by Interested

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

i want to open a day care but i dont know how

[Michael]

Some Useful Tips Starting a Home Daycare Business Please see your state's requirements and contact numbers located at:
http://www.daycare.com/states.html

Daycare Startup Guide Kit:
http://daycare.com/starting_a_daycare/index.html

Daycare Insurance:
http://daycare.com/advertisers/insurance/index.html

Accredited Daycare Classes:
http://www.daycare.com/advertisers/p...ter/index.html

To add your Daycare listing Information:
https://daycare.com/php/start_new_signup.php

I have been working at a daycare in Alabama since Feb. 2008.I am wanting to open up my own.I saw where you have to work at a daycare for a year.Does this year include previous daycares you worked at or does it have to be a year straight at one daycare?

In addition to contacting your local child care licensing agency, you should also contact your Child Care Resource and Referral Agency. Every state, and most areas, have a Resource and Referral Agency that exists to help parents find child care and to provide assistance to child care providers. Most of the services are free or low cost. You can find your local "R&R" at http://www.naccrra.org/

Best of luck!

A friend and I are interested in starting a daycare in Los Angeles, CA. I need to know what to do in order to get started.

[kidcentric]

Contact your child care licensing office. You can find address/phone number at: http://www.ccld.ca.gov/res/pdf/CClistingMaster.pdf

I would like to know about starting a large day care center in a commercial setting. Is the location required to have a outdoor play area? I have many more questions.

[kidcentric]

I don't know of any states that do not require outdoor play space--usually it's 75 square feet per child. In some urban areas, where space is at a premium, there is a possibility of doing a play area on top of a building. Sounds wild, but I have seen it done.

Originally Posted by Dee

I would like to know about starting a large day care center in a commercial setting. Is the location required to have a outdoor play area? I have many more questions.

I would like infomation on how to start a family daycare in my home.what do i need to start.

Can someone please tell me where and how do get my license? I'm interested in opening a center and I'm having problems getting started. I'm located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Thanks..

[Michael]

Information for Georgia licensing standards are located at:
http://www.daycare.com/georgia

[MissLisa]

I am not sure what state you are from... but in PA there is the Office of child development that inspects and will license a day care... be it center, family or group child care. We have a HUGE manual of regulations... lots of paperwork and rules. We also have what is known as Keystone Stars. This is a program that sets even stricter standards that rate a center as 1, 2, 3, 4 star. Just like they rate hotels 1 - 4 they rate the centers based on your standards. You begin at Star 1 and work through each level. It is a very involved process to explain in a brief but you can go to http://www.pakeys.org/ and read more about it. It has it's good points and it has it's down side as well. Day Care is not a get rich business and they have requirements to meet the Star 3 or 4 that would be too costly for a home town center. Now if you are with in a school district or organization...maybe it can be done.. but we would have to charge astronomical rates to cover their expectations. We are working on the Star 2 but doubt we will ever see a higher star level unless they start funding more of the costs. They do offer small grants to help you progress through the stars but it isnt enough to sustain a center.

I can only suggest that you do your homework before you decide to go forward. It is rewarding but it is also time consuming if done correctly.

I am wanting to open a preschool in florida.I would like to start from scatch,find land and build it ground up. i need money to do that and my credit is no go.. I know all that there is to know as far as state requirements go. Is there a grant money out there to suport my business.

I am wanting to start up a preschool in florida. My credit is not all that great and i was wondering if there are any grants out there for the childcare business. I would like to start my business from the ground up. Build the center and start from scratch. Any ideas or helpful hints. Thanks

I am wanting to start a daycare in Florida and I think I know what I need to have from the state, what do I need fron the city? Ay helpful kints would be great. I keep looking on the internet for whatever I can fine. Thanks

I would like to know about starting a large day care center in a commercial setting.I need each and every idea such as the philosophy, rules and all other things related with day care centre.

For those of you who would like more information on how to start up a day care or preschool, here is a great site to ask questions: www.PreschoolMentor.com

Pam Koons

iwould like to open a day care center in nj i am currenly in school to get my lcense can someone help me?

I am trying to start a home daycare in Illinois but I am renting my home now so i need help in getting an inspection to get my license so what can I do?

[MommyMuffin]

I am so impatient. I am so excited to start my daycare. I have done everything I need to except the fire marshal and inspection. My husband is building the basement for my daycare but he wont be done for about 6 months but I think would like to start in November. Should I go through with the process and just get my upper level which is not childcare "looking" and just get the lower level inspected whenever it gets done? I'm just afraid I wont get children because of the basic looking upper level.

I think you should do what you are comfortable with. So if you want to get started by working on your upper level, then go for it. You will have parents coming in to interview, so the whole house needs to be in tip-top shape anyways. Does your state allow for you to care for a few children before getting licensed? I am in MO and I am watching 4 kids right now (unrelated to me) while I am waiting to get everything for licensing. I am so glad I did this. It has allowed me to figure out what type of advertising works best, what arrangement of toys/furniture/shelving works best for the kiddos, and has helped me to feel more confident about the service I provide. Plus I am getting some money now which is really coming in handy as I think of more & more stuff we need to get!!

Good luck to you!

[daycare architect]

one of your first steps should be to identify a few possible sites for your daycare and then make sure that the zoning codes allow for that use in the space(s). Certain municipalities require pre-set distances from other types of businesses.

[itcgnyc]

Originally Posted by daycare architect

one of your first steps should be to identify a few possible sites for your daycare and then make sure that the zoning codes allow for that use in the space(s). Certain municipalities require pre-set distances from other types of businesses.

I"m not sure where you are planning to open a daycare, but my Company provides Center Development Services, and I use a fantastic architect who specializes in daycares. Please let me know if you would like her contact information.

Cindy O'Neill
Island Training & Consulting Group
(800) 974-4982
cindy@itcgnyc.com

http://www.nataliesdaycarekids.com/H...-Business.html

[barkley31]

I am wantin to lease a house and use it as a daycare , i live in atlanta ,ga and would like to know what is the first move in georgia to starting a day care home from 6 weeks to 12 years old . And are there grants that will help me get started if so what's web sit can i apply on for the grants.

thanks in advance

[Checkinkids.com]

After all the licensing and set up is ready, don't forget to run a nice ad in the phone book. That's the secret that really made our daycare take off.

[smallfish]

People just love to learn. Planning to include after school tutoring program for the late working parents. Looking for a plan to extend to a personalized education system for up to 8th grade.

[TGPII]

I heard that there are agencies (for a fee) will help you start a daycare. I tried to find one online but not luck. What are they called? What do they do? Can you recommend any? What do they charge? I had a place that wanted me to be a director they said an agency would train me. I came in every day and the agency person never showed. After a week of this I said this is not for me.

Congratulations on your new venture! Where are you located?

I started my company three years ago and have been in the field of early childhood for over 23 years. I help developers open childcare centers from the ground up, working with the architect, licensing, I can help you with marketing, developing your startup budget and operating budget, knowing what materials to order, helping (or do myself) your write policies and procedures, screen and interview candidates for teaching positions, set up the center, etc. I have opened many childcare centers.

I also am a New York State Credentialed Early Learning Trainer, so I teach all workshops which meet the requirements for licensing. I can certainly talk to you about my services; I promise I won't "not show"! when we have an appointment. I work with professionals that are serious about their projects and I feel I owe you the professionalism in return. Please e-mail me at cindy@itcgnyc.com if you would like to set up a time to chat further.

Cindy O'Neill
Island Training & Consulting Group

[Dawn Fox]

I want to open my very own daycare center and I don't know where to start. I have a babysitting certificate but what other licences would I need to have in order to start a daycare center? After I get all my requirements done what would be the next step? I need to know how to start my own daycare center step by step.

[GretasLittleFriends]

Dawn
Not sure what state you live in, but that makes some difference on the required steps. A GREAT place to start would be to contact the county's (the one where the daycare will be) Department of Human Services. It's extremely likely that they'll have the department that'll be licensing you. If not they can surely steer you in the right direction. A heads up, the county I live in had a huge information packet they sent me ahead of time, then also had a required orientation with the licensor. Good luck!!

[Michael]

Some Useful Tips Starting a Home Daycare Business
Please see your state's requirements and contact numbers located at:
http://www.daycare.com/states.html

Daycare Startup Guide Kit:
http://daycare.com/starting_a_daycare/index.html

Daycare Insurance:
http://daycare.com/advertisers/insurance/index.html

Accredited Daycare Classes:
http://www.daycare.com/advertisers/p...ter/index.html

To add your Daycare listing Information:
https://daycare.com/php/start_new_signup.php

Hi, I am starting a home daycare and would love to use my garage as part of the space.
If I remove all garage type items and I remodel : put down flooring and paint the walls and decorate it nice, will I need to remove or cover up the overhead door. I looked at the IN code and it doesnt say anything about this. Maybe I should call someone... but who?


I'm so thankful for daycare.com and all your posts and great info. Thanks gals!

: )

Jenna

[yes there are regulations that you have to go by if you want to be state lic. but it is not hard to do it just take a lot of work on your behalf. QUOTE=Interested;2]What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?[/quote]

[MiamiMom]

I am currently in interested in buying an existing daycare in Miami Fl. Does anyone have any suggestion as to what I should ask or know before meeting the current owner? Also, where I can obtain funding besides going into my savings.

[Liliya]

Hello, I do have Licensed in home childcare, but want to go for a group. I live in subdivision and I think it would not allow me to go for 12 kids, I want to buy a small house, but how I know if it zoned for a child care,do I call for every house I look?? or realtor should know? Anyone knows how its done, please share.

[GretasLittleFriends]

Personally, I'd say make the realtor earn their paycheck. They should be able to look into those things for you. That's just my .02.

[l.c.williams20007]

I need help on the procedure to open a daycare.

[PositvityRuLes]

Are there any grants to help get your daycare started? (MI resident) Thanx all.

[Michael]

New article regarding remodeling and construction on the front page of Daycare.com:
http://daycare.com/story/daycare_design/index.php

I'm also in the process of starting a daycare. Do I need a business license as well as a daycare license? THANKS!

I have been providing in home child care for over 25 years... would love to help you get started- check out my new website for tons of free information that should answer most of your questions that you have. My goal for my website is to help new providers.

http://www.child-care-business.com/index.html
be happy to help with questions that you didn't find answers to. Just click on the "submit question" tab and it will take you to the page to do so. JC

Hi! I am new to this site, but I am certainly not new to daycare- I have been providing child care in my home for more that 25 years. I'd like to help you - I have been building a website dedicated to new providers that are starting out. The info is all free and there is a tab that you can click that you can "submit a question" to me directly and I will do my best to answer and help you... I want to use my experience to help others get a good start. my site is
www.child-care-business.com Check it out... I'd appreciate any feedback. Look forward to meeting new people on here and learning from everyone! JC

[Ilka]

I am about to start small...as a listed home day care with not more than three unrelated kids.
I am in Texas and was told that I have to fill out some forms (background check,...) and send in a check or money order over $20 to Austin. As soon as I receive that permit I can get started

...now my question: Can anybody give me a clue about how long it'll take to receive that permit?

Thanks a lot,
Ilka

What are the regulations for qualifacations for a in home day care.

[Michael]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

What are the regulations for qualifacations for a in home day care.

Please see http://www.daycare.com/states.html

[KCDaycare]

My friend and I are both interested in starting a home day care together. We have looked at all the state websites and are now confused on the difference between being registered and licensed. We just want to be registered so that we can provide care to 8 children between the two of us; that would be 4 per provider.

We are looking for any suggestions on what to do? We are both unemployed and have decided that we can do this together but need a place to start.

Any suggestions?

[Charity]

Hello All!! I am new to the forum and currently starting a small Child Care Business in my home. Any help wouldbe greatly appreciated. The laws here are so touchy.... and have thrown me from one person to the next. Can anyone tell me what would help to get word out?? Can I be licensed in myome and watch more than 6?? The Health department tells me that once I become licensed I can not watch from my home that I have to open a building. PLEASE any help on home child care is appreciated

[joelietz]

Originally Posted by Charity

Hello All!! I am new to the forum and currently starting a small Child Care Business in my home. Any help would be greatly appreciated. The laws here are so touchy.... and have thrown me from one person to the next. Can anyone tell me what would help to get word out?? Can I be licensed in myome and watch more than 6?? The Health department tells me that once I become licensed I can not watch from my home that I have to open a building. PLEASE any help on home child care is appreciated

Well, to get the word out you could have some business cards printed and take them around to doctor's offices or leave a few at any place that attracts a lot of parents with kids. A brochure that outlines what you can offer as a daycare provider and your rates would be good too. I wouldn't spend a lot on printing - just keep it simple because most printed small business advertising is highly disposable and usually gets thrown out quickly. Local cultural centers and recreation facilities would be a good place to pin up your business card too. Mention your business to everyone you meet and word of mouth should help you too. Also talk to your local daycare supplies company because they probably have some good ideas too. Good luck.

Joanna

Originally Posted by Interested

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

i need to know what regulations i need to open a daycare in the state of texas, but i dont know where to start..

[Michael]

For Texas see: http://www.daycare.com/texas/

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

[Michael]

Some Useful Tips Starting a Home Daycare Business
Please see your state's requirements and contact numbers located at:
http://www.daycare.com/states.html

Daycare Startup Guide Kit:
http://daycare.com/starting_a_daycare/index.html

Daycare Insurance:
http://daycare.com/advertisers/insurance/index.html

Accredited Daycare Classes:
http://www.daycare.com/advertisers/p...ter/index.html

To add your Daycare listing Information:
https://daycare.com/php/start_new_signup.php

Originally Posted by Interested

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

I am learning about what is involved in terms of starting a day care as well I am interested to find out if you are looking to start a home day care since I would love to work with a partner on this project rather than by myself.
hope to hear back
Sara Scripps

I live in Washington state and operate a in home daycare. I have an oppurtunity to expand into on-site child care. The problem I have been running into is finding an insurance company to offer liabilty insurance for this venture. If you have any leads it will be greatly appreciated. Steph

[Michael]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I live in Washington state and operate a in home daycare. I have an oppurtunity to expand into on-site child care. The problem I have been running into is finding an insurance company to offer liabilty insurance for this venture. If you have any leads it will be greatly appreciated. Steph

Try http://morganinsurance.com/

[Diana]

Hello! I am new to the Daycare.com family and I just received my GFDC license for 12-14 kids in NY. I am unemployed and will like to know if anyone has links or advice on buying cheap furniture/items. Do you know of any organizations that will donate free items? Do you know of what I should do to receive funding to help me with the start-up process. Do you have a successfull way to promote your daycare? Thank you so much in advance!

[Michael]

Welcome to Daycare.com Forum Diana! We would of course mention you consider listing in the Daycare.com Registry: https://daycare.com/php/start_new_signup.php

There are also threads relating to other sites that you can find here: http://www.daycare.com/forum/tags.php?tag=advertising

PM me if you need assistance.

[Diana]

Hello Michael,

Thanks for the quick response! I will review the links you provided me.

Originally Posted by Interested

What is involved with starting my own daycare? Are there regulations?

What do I need 2 do?