Starting a home based daycare in Arkansas?

Question

I just had a baby a few months ago, I want to stay at home with my child and make money at the same time. There is a great need for child care in my area. I live in Arkansas, Does anyone know the rules and regulations for starting a home based daycare in AR? Do I absolutely need to be certified, or licensed? I am only wanting to keep about 3 children, so I can give them all the proper attention they need. I am planning on using the preschool curriculum for those children old enough, and of course daily activities like coloring, painting and of course playing outside. The city park is my backyard! What do I have to do to get this set up legally? I am wanting to do this right out of my home.

Answer 1

Congratulations on your new baby.  I too, live in Arkansas, and there is a huge need for child care all over the state, especially affordable child care.  Here is the link for the minimum licensing requirements  http://www.arkansas.gov/childcare/licens...

Go here and it will tell you everything you need to know!  Good luck in your quest to help us care for Arkansas children.

Answer 2

the poster above gave a great link.  I suggest speaking with someone in your area that is already doing in home child care  that is licensed to find out what kinds of things they went through.  It is true that each state has its own laws, but the interpretation of those laws can vary from licensor to licensor.  and there also may be city regs to consider.  If you live in a gated community or apartment, there are additional rules.  Good luck and congrats!

a little OT... but hopefully this will be helpful once you get started

there is a support forum for in home child care here:

http://www.123child.com/bb/

and a ton of theme based curriculum here:

http://www.123child.com/act