How to Start a Preschool Daycare
Parents who need to work during the day, or those who want their child prepared for kindergarten, will need to find a place that offers learning activities combined with traditional daycare. To start your own preschool daycare, you need to follow the guidelines set by your state department of licensing, secure a location and acquire materials for the students.
- Settle a location for the preschool daycare center. You may be able to use your home, as long as you have enough room to accommodate children attending. If you do not want to use your home or you don't have adequate space, you will need to find a building to rent or buy. You should also take into account the outside space. There should be plenty of room for children to go outside and play during the day.
- Find financing in your area. Contact The Small Business Administration and ask what types of financing is available in your area. Search for grants and loans to help with the total cost of running your preschool daycare.
- Contact your state department of licensing. Each state has guidelines that a preschool and daycare facility must adhere to. Some states will require you to obtain a license, pass a criminal background check and complete CPR and First Aid courses. Request an application packet and ask what guidelines are for a preschool in your state.
- Purchase materials. Look for desks or a table and chairs to set up a classroom area. Most preschool daycare centers offer care for children between the ages of two and five, so you should purchase age-appropriate learning materials. Look for toys, games and arts and crafts activities, too. Nap mats for the kids and outdoor toys are essential. Make sure have cleaning products and first aid supplies.
- Determine the type of care you will provide. Consider if you want children to be potty trained before they attend your school and if you will provide aftercare.
- Schedule and pass an inspection. After you have sent in your application packet, the department of licensing will contact you to inspect the facility. Make sure you meet all criteria mentioned on the inspection list.
- Advertise your preschool daycare center. Pass out flyers, post your business in the newspaper and list your services with an online directory, such as Merchant Circle. Invite all the children and their families to an open house night. Meet potential parent and students and invite them to visit anytime and learn more about you.