If you wish to start a day care you need to find out about day care licensing. Adequate preparation translates into a much smoother day care licensing application procedure and a better chance of success. Learning about the requirements for a day care license is a great way to discover exactly what is required and whether or not you are fully ready and able to embark on a business in child care.

International and state day care licensing requirements, application procedures and regulations vary and you’ll need to do the research for your area. Ofsted deal with UK licensing and in Ireland the Health Service Executive handle day care registration applications. Information on all USA licensing can be found at the website of the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Childcare and Early Education.

Generally speaking, the day care licensing process is designed to protect the children and ensure that the day care environment is safe, children’s overall welfare is being served from the point of view of safety, hygiene, nutrition, activities and all aspects of their development. Granting a day care license occurs upon completion of a detailed evaluation of the proposed service which takes into account all of the above.

The first step in applying for a day care license is the application form. Information required on this application form shall include, but not be limited to: - Contact details, name etc - Plans for the premises showing layout, playground and facilities - Number of children and hours of opening - Details of staff - Educational program proposed - Menu information and schedules - Financial resources available for start up

An examination of the regulations, a review of your finances and a discussion regarding the need for a day care in your area will be covered during an initial consultation with day care licensing representatives. An assessment of the facility to determine if it will comply with the regulations shall be carried out by a licensing evaluator during an announced, preliminary visit. Be aware that the following criteria will need to be met: - Your telephone must work - Adequate smoke detectors - Adequate fire extinguishers - Appropriate storage of all toxic and hazardous substances - Adequate heating and ventilation - There may be no hazards present and the premises should be completely safe - The premises must be hygienic and clean All educational and play equipment should be age appropriate and safe

Following completion of the application process you will be issued or denied a day care licence. Generally, licenses are valid for a year and must be displayed in a conspicuous place at all times. Some resources that will help you get up to speed are Building Blocks - a tool designed to help day care professionals in every setting keep up to date with the latest guidelines for quality child care. Also, Stepping Stones - good source of key health and safety practices that reduce disease disability and death in child care facilities. Remember, preparation is key when going for day care licensing and the more knowledge you have the better your chances of starting your day care.

To discover more about how to start a daycare, visit Child Care Only where you will find this and much more, covering all aspects of how to start a home daycare.

- Rene Sandan