Child Care Small Business

If you love kids, starting a home-based preschool or daycare maybe one of the easiest and most rewarding small businesses. The majority of parents now work outside of the home creating a high demand for quality child care. Licensed child-care homes provide a safe and comfortable environment for children of all ages.

Many parents prefer to have their children in a home environment with 5-10 other children rather than a large child care center with hundreds of other children. These homes provide a unique and essential service to the families they serve. Often the children spend the majority of their waking hours in child care and the love and education they are provided will influence them for the rest of their lives!

Pros:

• You can be with your own children at the same time you earn money watching other children. Some child care homes will provide only a supplemental income while other can support a family.
• As a business owner you can chose both the children you take on and the times when you are available. Some child care homes offer 24/7 care at a premium, while others only offer after school programs for older children.
• You already have the experience you need to be a great child care provider by being a great mom!

Cons:

• Some states have very specific licensing requirements.
• In most states you will need to be the homeowner in order to conduct a business out of your home.
• You need to have enough space that can be set aside for child care, including an outdoor play area. I would recommend a separate space from your own living area; examples would be a basement, or a garage.
• Keeping both young children and their parents happy can be challenging! Know your own skills before beginning on this endeavor.

What do I need to do to get started?

• Make sure you are prepared emotionally for the stresses of having additional children under your care.
• Start with your state government website. Do a search for licensed child care homes within that site and you should get a list of state specific requirements.
• Check with your town chamber of commerce to verify that there is a need for additional child care services in your area. You can also get phone numbers of existing child care homes.
• Complete all the requirements for licensing including CPR and First Aid certification.
• Get insurance specifically for child care homes. Contact your current homeowner’s insurance provider or check with your state’s website to find the right insurance.
• Purchase toys and activities for your children. If you are not sure where to start, try a web search for “preschool curriculum” and you will find thousands of free activities ideas as well as complete curriculums for sale.
• Advertise through word-of-mouth and flyers.

Providing a family child care home can be one of the most rewarding and challenging career choices you can make. It is full of grave responsibilities and immense joy. Deciding to take the step to begin on this small business venture could indeed change your life.