Home day care?

Question

Looking to open a home day care in Alaska.
If you have a home day care, how'd you egt started?
What did you need to start up?
Best way to do Fed. taxes?
Do you accept state assistance?
Did you make mistakes, what were they?
What would you have done differently and why?

Answer 1

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 2

I had a home day care. I did make mistakes. I let people walk all over me. (my only regret) I got to meet wonderful kids/parents and be home at the same time when my oldest were toddlers.

So first off advertise. - and think about interviewing the family and child. Infants are nice they learn to know you - etc.
Also be FIRM in your hours. Let the parents provide something but offer "lunch" or snacks or something like that.

After a family made me leery I looked in to
a franchise called Monday Morning moms.
They were insured and bonded and offered interviews so if you know this wasn't a good match for you and or your kids too - you could say no. State your hours, and if you are sick they have a back up plan.
Check in to that first. It's just a comfort they have your back and they are there for the kids/parents too. Win/Win.

Otherwise taxes - Claim everything you honestly use for your business. How much space is used, toys, books, food..

Good Luck.