Looking Into Home Daycare as a Business
A home daycare seems like it would be the ideal business for many women who would like to stay at home, but still need to bring in an income. Choosing to open a home daycare can be a challenge, and it does involve many big decisions that should be taken seriously.
A home daycare is a big commitment that involves using your home for a business. Before jumping into this business it is probably a wise decision to find out about what would be needed for this business.
Space
Some things that will be important to a home daycare are is there enough space within your home to accommodate this type of business. Consider what age children that you will be working with. If infants are your target group, you will need to have cribs, strollers, blankets and toys that stimulate this young age group. If it is older children, a type of before and after school program, activities are a good idea and should be looked into. With this age group, it is good to keep in mind that during summer months and holidays they will need daycare and this is something to consider.
Finances
Many items for a home daycare can be purchased at second hand stores and garage sales. It may take some time to build up enough stock to feel ready to open a home daycare. Also it may be a good idea to check with an accountant to find out if anything can be used for tax purposes. A tax accountant can provide important information about taxes and how to file the proper paperwork when owning a home daycare.
Demand and Supply
If after evaluating your home space and making a decision on the target age group, you feel this is a good avenue for you, it is time to find out if there is truly a need for another home daycare. Find out how many home daycares are in business in your area. This can sometimes be done by calling a daycare referral service that lists daycares.
Call these home daycare providers and find out if they have wait lists. If there seems to be a lack of providers discover how to get on the referral list so that your business is already being marketed.
License
It is imperative to find out how to get licensed in your area and this can be done by calling your states Family Services department. The regulations for a home daycare can be provided and you can then begin the process of getting your home ready for licensing. Opening your own home daycare business can be an exciting opportunity, check into the legalities and find out if this is the right path for you.
