How to Start an In-Home Preschool
People looking for an at-home business and love working with children may be interested in starting an in-home preschool or child care center. Getting a home set up to serve as a preschool can seem complicated and overwhelming. A few simple steps will make the process seem much more achievable.
- Check with the city or county to find out if you are zoned to have a business in your home. See what the requirement are for an in home preschool. There may be rules about adding a fence or notifying the neighborhood.
- Research the state's licensing requirements. In some states it is not required unless exceeding a certain number of children (five is common in many states). Even if licensing isn't required, it is in the best interest to become licensed. It will set the upcoming school apart from other at-home care providers and allow a possible contract with state child care subsidy programs.
- Follow state guidelines to prepare the home to meet the health, safety and sanitation requirements needed for a child care center. This information should be available on state's child care website. Lock up medications and cleaning supplies, for example.
- Take the training courses required by the state for operating an in-home child care center. These requirements also vary by state, and some offer the training completely online.
- Contact the local child care licensing office. A licensing representative can give tips on how to prepare a home and provide information about obtaining and maintaining a license.
- Check garage sales, online classifieds and consignment shops for the furniture and materials required. Ask to tour an existing home child care center to get ideas for what may be necessary.
- Once licensed (if applicable), have a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment set up, children may start attending.