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Getting Your Child Care Business Started
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Common Questions

Why become a licensed child care provider?

Choosing a child care provider is one of the most important decisions families make. By becoming a licensed child care provider, you can reassure parents that your facility is regulated, meets the minimum health and safety standards and is monitored for ongoing compliance by county social services. As a licensed child care provider, you can also discuss with parents the requirements for programming and your ongoing training requirements.

How do you apply for a license?

Contact your county social service agency to receive information and an application. Counties hold orientation sessions for prospective licensed child care providers. Check with your local county licenser for orientation dates, times and locations in your area.

What does licensing involve?

It will involve a licensing study of your home by the county licenser to determine if you meet the minimum health and safety standards (rules and regulations). You may be required to have a fire inspection.

How much does it cost to become licensed?

Rates very and change. Check with your county licenser.

How many children can be cared for in your home?

Your county licenser, your educational training, local ordinances and amount of facility space determine the number of children you can care for. You must not exceed the maximum number allowed by your license. There needs to be a minimum of 35 square feet of usable indoor space per child. An average home is generally adequate. Your county licenser can discuss the numbers allowed depending on the square footage and local ordinances.

Can you, as a licensed child care provider, have pets?

Check with your county licenser.

Do you need to fence your yard?

Fencing is necessary for areas in close proximity to busy streets or hazardous areas from which children need to be protected. Contact your local county licenser for further information.

Do you need special training to be a licensed child care provider?

Before you are licensed, you must have a current card for the completion of CPR and first aid training.

How do you qualify for the food program?

If you are licensed, you are eligible to participate in the child and adult food program which provides information and reimbursement for serving nutritious meals and snacks in your program.

Links to the food programs are in the Business Resource Section under Food Programs. Contact the food program of your choice for more details.

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