If I wanted to watch some kids for some extra money how many could I watch w/o having to get a license?

Question

I have two of my own. My husband is in Iraq and I don't want to have to pay for daycare but we need the extra money. We live in Texas. Thanks for any help you can give us.

Answer 1

There is too much liability, responsibility, aggravation and hours involved with babysitting and not enough pay. Not to mention the fact that I believe that in almost any state you are in ( or every state ) you must be licensed to to run a daycare which essentially what you are talking about.

Check out this website, it is an excellent resource for moms who want to work at home. My sister used it and found two jobs that she now works while at home with her 5 month old son.

Good Luck

http://www.wahm.com/

Answer 2

I contemplated doing daycare to stay home with my kids. It's a lot of work and long hours. Have you ever considered doing a home-based business? I decided on lia sophia jewelry instead of daycare. You'll still have to have someone watch the kids for a few hours while you're away, but you'll be making WAY more per hour than a regular job. You can see my web site for more details and contact me if you have questions...good luck.

If you're really into doing childcare...it depends on the laws in Texas. Word of mouth seems to be the best way to get families. Also, there is usually a certain number of children (depending on ages, and relation to you) that can be in your care before liscensing is required. I do know, however, that in my state, the penalty for not paying income taxes on what you make is greater than the penalty of the state discovering you have more than the allowed number of kids in your home.

Answer 3

I would say no more than $12 to $15 an hour without being licensed.

Answer 4

Good question. I believe it depends on your local government i.e. city or county. And if it is something you are doing for profit, you might still need to some form of registration. Start here first:

http://childcare.about.com/od/childcareprovider/bb/childcarecareer.htm?terms=childcare+regulations

Go to the "In-Home Care Regulations Differ" section.

http://childcare.about.com/od/childcareprovider/f/nolicenseneeded.htm?terms=childcare+regulations

http://entrepreneurs.about.com/od/businessideas/a/fundsinthesun_2.htm?terms=babysitting+regulations

Best wishes!

-Leon S

Answer 5

Check local ordinances, but I believe the answer is that you can look after less than 6, counting your own kids.