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Daycare at home is a great way to spend the early years with your child, give them social interaction, and is flexible. Here are some guidelines for getting started running your own business.
First check with your local regulations. Some states require licensing, others just require a sworn affidavit that you have not been convicted of a crime. It is probably a good idea to take a CPR class and a basic first aid class before you start, even if your state doesn't require it.
Now that you know what the state regulations are, decide what age children you are willing or allowed to care for. You will need cups, plates, silverware, beds, or cots/mats, sheets, pillowcases, etc., enough for as many children as you will care for. You might be able to get some of the supplies at your local thrift store.
You will also need an assortment of sturdy toys. Having two or three of each type of toy will help avoid arguements. Make sure you have some indoor and some outdoor toys.
Decide what hours you are willing to watch children, but be prepared to be somewhat flexible, since not everyone works the same hours. Consider whether you will work nights, weekends, but do allow one or two evenings for you and your family, with no other children.
Fixing an hourly rate can be the hardest. Don't be afraid to call daycare providers and ask what they charge. You don't want to price yourself higher than the local average, or lower. Decide if the rate you charge will include meals, snacks, field trips etc. Decide how often you want to be paid: once a week, every two weeks, monthly, will you offer a discount if they pay in advance? Will you accept checks, or would you prefer cash? If you accept checks, will you hold them for a few days, if they bounce what will you charge?
Advertising is probably the easiest task. A classified ad detailing your hours and rates will generate a fair amount of interest, as will ads placed in grocery stores and other local family orientated businesses. You might talk to other daycare providers and ask if they have too many children, could they offer your name as another provider?
You will need to make arrangements with another provider or two to cover for you if something should happen and you are unable to care for children. It will happen, no matter how well prepared you are, so plan ahead.
Now that you are ready to start caring for children, good luck and congratulations, you have entered the world of being a business owner, enjoy yourself.
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