Do you want to open a daycare because you love kids and want to help those struggling working parents? Or are you searching for a way to stay home with your young child while still earning a steady income to provide for your family? Both are valid and common reasons, but first, you'll need to know how to get started.
Optional Steps to Starting a Daycare
There are a few steps to starting a daycare that are not required to complete the process.
Study Early Childhood Education
It is not required to receive a specific degree to start a daycare, but some professionals do recommend it. You can typically find classes in-person or online to help you better understand the developing minds of these young children. This type of education may also look more appealing to parents searching for a daycare for their children.
Apply for Grants
Because starting a daycare can be very costly, there are plenty of grants you can apply for to assist with the cost. There may be more costs associated with starting a daycare than you expect. Some of these costs include:
Even if you believe you have enough funding on your own to begin, it wouldn't hurt to apply.
Hire Other Staff
Depending on the size of daycare you are starting, you may need additional staff to support the children. This may not be something you want to do in the beginning and may be a goal for down the line, but it's always something to think about.
Required Steps to Starting a Daycare
Some steps are required before staring a daycare, include these basic ones.
Get Licensed
The requirements to become licensed may vary by state. Reach out to your state's Department of Children and Family Services to inquire about what you need to do to be a legally operating daycare center. Some states may require you to take CPR training, have a clean driving record, etc.
Create a Financial Goal and Budget
This is where you will need to decide what you will charge your clients. You'll also need to decide if you will provide essential things like diapers and wipes or if the parents are responsible for providing those resources for you. It is very important to set a budget for necessities, as well as wants. Most importantly, stick to that budget! It's normal to start small and work your way up as you grow.
Create a Contract
This step is important. This is where you set the rules and boundaries with the parents.
In your contract, you'll need to include things like:
If you're having trouble drafting a contract, don't be afraid to consult a childcare attorney.
Spread the Word
Once you're licensed, set up, and have your contract drafted, it's time to start seeking clients. Depending on the demand for daycare in your area, this could potentially be the easiest step. Don't be afraid to promote yourself on social media to get the word out about your new daycare.
Share28 June 2021
Is taking your child to daycare something that is new to you? If so, do you know what all your child will need while he or she is in the care of others? Packing more than he or she needs or not packing enough, can make things more difficult than they need to be. So, how do you find the right amount of stuff to pack? What will your son or daughter really need while in daycare? Go to my blog to learn what your child will need and several tips that can make adapting to the daycare system easier for you and your child.
