Starting a daycare?

Question

If i would like to start a daycare in North eastern PA what steps do I have to take? I would like for it to be licensed and all. And about how much do you think I would need for start up money?

Answer 1

You need to obtain a license from the state if you wish to open a daycare. The type of license depends on the number of kids you want to watch, where they will be cared for, and how many people will be employed. Remember, once you go from "babysitting" to "daycare" there are strict rules you must follow unless you like being sued. Once you have your license you need to check with the local zoning office at city hall to see if there are any local ordinances you need to follow. Daycare is considered a home business so there are usually some rules you need to follow and maybe a low-cost license. Most rules revolve around the number of kids that can be watched in a residential neighborhood. Then you need to establish a business entity (sole propritership, LLC, sub S corp, C corp, Partnership, etc.) This can best answered by your accountant. Expect to pay about $300 to $800 for this service, depending on the type of entity you choose, and make sure it includes the filing of all required paperwork. After than you need to get insurance, and that can range in price depending on number of kids, etc. Make sure you check with your homeowners insurance if you do this our of the home so you can add this service. Then you need to set up a set of books to keep track of all your expenses. Add up all the costs of labor, insurance, taxes, play toys and equipment, videos, etc., divide by the number of kids you are watching, add a profit % and you now know what you need to charge. There is a lot to that step by a good accountant (an EA) should be able to help you, for a fee.

Answer 2

The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.

I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* Start & Run a Home Daycare by Catherine M. Pruissen
* Starting a Child Care Center: The Indispensable Guidebook for Starting a Day Care or Child Care Business by Millicent Gray Lownes-Jackson,
* Opening & Operating A Successful Child Care Center by Dorothy June Sciarra
* The Business of Child Care: Management and Financial Strategies by Gail H Jack

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 3

Go to http://www.score.org/ to find the nearest SCORE chapter. Contact them to arrange for a free one on one meeting with a SCORE counselor about starting a daycare.

SCORE is a nonprofit organization. They provide a public service by offering small business advice and training. .

SCORE's 10,500 volunteers have more than 600 business skills. Volunteers share their wisdom and lessons learned in business. The volunteers are working/retired business owners, executives and corporate leaders.

Answer 4

even you start one the insurance is way high and what if one dyes what then Hugh dint do it