How to Start Home Daycare Centers

Starting a home daycare is simple. There are a few rules to follow and classes to take. Home daycares are a wonderful way to be a stay-at-home parent, while still generating an income. You should research a home daycare thoroughly and understand that this is very much a family commitment; your job will be in your home and part of your daily life.

Running a home daycare is rewarding job. There are many factors to consider before jumping into to this line of work. Think carefully about all factors. If you feel that you can address these issues and not feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to handle a situation then this is probably a great line of work for you.

Ask yourself the following questions

• Do you have experience with children other than your own?


• Do you have CPR/First Aid training? If not, do you feel comfortable getting it?


• Are you willing to take classes and obtain state certification?


• Is your home child safe? If not, are you willing to childproof?


• Can you commit to a set schedule each day?


• Are you willing to keep your pets out of the daycare area?


• Are you comfortable confronting people about monetary issues?

These are only a few of the many questions that you will need to ask yourself during this process. As you learn more about each part of the business, it will become clear quickly if this is the right business for you or not.

Contact your state human services office. They will explain what certification you need, as well as what the rules are in home daycare businesses. You will receive a list that includes a list of the classes, home inspection guidelines, required certification and laws regarding the children you care for. Classes are generally free of charge or require a $5 fee. You need to attend classes on mandatory reporting, abuse and neglect, State laws for daycare workers and home safety. All of these classes are very basic and easy to understand.

Once you have the states okay to open your daycare, take the time to research and draw up a contract for potential clients to sign. The following is a list of common forms and policy documents that you should have on hand to give all new clients.

• Client contract– include payment terms and a termination agreement.


• Health history for each child– also include places for favorite foods, toys, games and any other important things parents fell you should know.


• Daycare Policies – Clearly state your rules, what you expect from parents, rules regarding sick children, your days off, you payment policy and any other information you feel is important.


• Daycare handbook- Some providers create a handbook that reiterates the policies and contract, as well as adding more detail about their daily program and activities.


• Other forms – there are many forms available some of those tell how a child’s day was, reminders of upcoming days off, list of wet diapers, notice of supplies needed or anything else you can think of that a parent may need to know weekly.

Becoming a daycare provider is a fun job, but it can be a hard one. Sometimes your day job will cross over into your family’s evening and that will be the biggest challenge- learning how to balance it all.