WAHM > Stay at Home Mom Work Ideas > Selling a Service > In Home Daycare Center

Start a Home Daycare Center

What you will be doing.  Parents need to work. With the state of the economy it is necessary for both parents to hold a job. That means the kids who are not of school age need a place to go.

Costs pertaining to childcare are rising just as fast as gas prices. As a daycare provider, you will give parents a safe place to leave their children and embark on a rewarding career.

How to start.  Decide if this is the best option for you. Usually home daycare providers are also parents. They are used to handling their children so they know how a parent feels who has to work but worries about sending their kids to a stranger.

Before putting out the word about your business, get the necessary requirements met. Find out what regulations must be observed according to the state. Permits to house a certain amount of children may be required. They will also judge how many children can be cared for in a certain size space. Classes in pediatric CPR and basic first aid lend weight to your credentials when parents come to look at your home.

Starting costs. Daycare businesses can be operated from the home. Costs related to facility are not a problem since you already live in a dwelling. There will be the cost of food. When children are with you for a certain amount of time, a meal is required to be served.

Inspection of the kitchen facilities could also be necessary before you open your doors to the little tikes. A daycare business is manageable for around $2,000. This cost may rise if you take in infants. They will need cribs and changing tables. Older kids need sleeping mats and pillows and toys.

Skills needed.  What do all parents need? Patience is a necessity when dealing with small children. They try your nerves, throw tantrums, get sick, and throw food. Organization skills keep the merry band of kids from getting out of control. A set schedule for all of the children teaches them to deal with routine and lets you stay in charge of the day.

Daycare providers communicate with parents on a daily basis. If there is a problem with the child’s behavior they need to know about it in a tactful way. Handing out a rule sheet on the first day avoids the possibility of misunderstandings.

Marketing.  Churches, schools, hospitals, and play groups are all excellent places to hang flyers. Be sure to state the ages of the children you want to attract clearly in the flyer. Detail times of operation and holiday procedures.

Take out ads in the Yellow Pages, newspapers, and community newsletters so as many people as possible know about the new business. A sign in your front yard with the name of the daycare and your telephone number catches all the passers-by.