What are the rules and regulations regarding starting a daycare center for pre-school children?

Question

Please cast light on the following issues;

doing this in residential area and converting private home

general health and safety

toilets and wash hand basins for +- 20 kids

the required square meters of space available for kids use

and anything you can think of that could be of importance

thanx allott

Answer 1

There are a ton of regulations that you need to adhere to.  Check with your local Department for Youth and Families (or your equivalent)  They should send you a packet with all of the necessary information regarding regulations.  You usually need about 35 square feet per child.  One toilet and sink per 10 children.  You also need to have appropriate exits, exterior play yard space, sleeping area, food prep. handling and space etc.

As for using a residential property, be prepared to deal with the local zoning board to discuss re-zoning the home.  The neighbors in the neighborhood will be notified of you intent and will have a say in its approval.  Getting on their good side is helpful!  Sending around a survey can also be helpful to you.  Also, have the home checked for lead, radon, mold, etc.  before moving along with any purchases.  If you find a home you are interested in and want to bid on it, be sure to put in the offer that purchase is dependent on all proper permits and zoning to be approved.

If you are thinking of using your own home, keep in mind that being able to leave work at work can be very helpful to your well being!  I believe that you are additionally limited in the number of students you would be able to accomodate.  Only so much of your home space can be used towards the square footage per student.

Visit other daycares and collect samples of their paperwork, etc.  to help you design your own.  You don't need to tell them why, just say you are looking into local daycare.  This way, you can also get an idea of local rates and schedules.  

There are so many things I could tell you, but this should get you started!  Check our the SBA (Small Business Association) for financial guidance also.

Answer 2

Depends on your state. Usually you can do this out of your own home but in this case there are sometimes a limit to the number of children you can take in.

Answer 3

This varies depending on both your state and county and sometimes your city.  I would start by taking tours of local daycare centers.  Remember child to adult ratios also depend on the age of the children, if you have a mixed age group then generally you have to do the ratio for the youngest.  Most states have a department that regulates Day-cares, find out who it is in your state and call them.  Another good resource would be a local community collage that offers childcare courses.

Answer 4

you should watch the film daddy daycare. they have some information on there. it depends on where you live?

Answer 5

First it all depends on your state,  so I would cjeck with your local health department,  and they  will tell you everything you will need to know,  you will have to get inspected by them anyways,  so its bettter to know everything from them right off the bat.  Good Luck

Answer 6

well according to daddy daycare

lol

there has to be a ratio with adults and children

(e.g: 1 adult 4 every 5 children)

and there has 2 be safety regulations made to.