I would like to do in home daycare. What kinds of things do I need to start? What resources are available?

Question

I would like to do in home daycare. What kinds of things do I need to start? What resources are available?

Answer 1

I want to do it too! I need to think about it though.

Answer 2

There's a state agency that you have to be licensed with, at least in Califonria.  Might be dept of social services, something like that.  Go on their website and take a look for 'day care licensing'.

they have all kinds of resources as to what courses you have to have, what modifications to your house you'll have to do, etc.

Answer 3

I have been a licensed child care provider in my home for almost 21 years.  Your first step will be to check out the rules and regulations for your state.  Each state sets their own rules and they do vary considerably from state to state.  Where I live, in Michigan, the licensing office is run through the Department of Human Services.  To find information for Michigan you would go to www.michigan.gov/dhs.  You could do a similar search for your state.  Some states allow you to care for 1-2 children without being licensed, but in Michigan, anyone who regularly cares for any unrelated children in their home must be licensed by the state.  Some states only require you to be registered and not licensed.  I would suggest you start with contacting your state's child care licensing board.  You will find your best initial resource there.  The process will vary, but in Michigan the process starts with paperwork including an application form, a medical release form, references, and a mandatory introductory class where you go over the licensing rule book and receive additional resources.  In our area, we also have several additional agencies that provide support and resources, including one that provides the free service of helping to match up licensed care providers with families needing care.  Look in your yellow pages under the heading of "Child Care Referral Services" and see what organizations are available in your area.  I am required to keep my CPR and First Aid certificates current (I take my classes through the American Red Cross) plus I am required to take a minimum of 10 hours yearly of continuing education.  A degree is not required to provide child care in your home, but I do have an Early Elementary Teaching degree.  Many Community Colleges offer child care associates degrees.  Especially helpful are classes in child development.  Again, not required, but useful.  Additionally, we have a county wide daycare homes association made up of care providers which offers monthly meetings with guest speakers and classes.  I love what I do, but as with nearly all jobs, there are certainly some downsides to consider.  Hours are long with no breaks and the pay is not necessarily all that great.  In home child care providers are considered self-employed so after taxes and expenses, my net income would probably be considered rather pathetic for many.  I am fortunate enough to do it most for the love of the children as my husband's job is sufficient to pay the bills.  Most of my income is used for some of the extras such as traveling and eating out.  There is also considerable wear and tear on your home.  My own children are now 29, 26, 23, and 10 so I also love it because I am able to also be an at-home mom, which is nice for before and after school and school breaks.  Being an in home child care provider has many rewarding moments and I love it most because I enjoy being part of the lives of children.

Answer 4

My first recommendation would be to take first aid, CPR, and child care courses if you have not already. Good luck with your endeavor!