Articles from GBE Friends

Day care licensing knowledge and information is a necessary prerequisite if you wish to start a day care. Adequate preparation translates into a much smoother day care licensing application procedure and a better chance of success. You will discover, through thorough research, whether or not you are suited to starting a day care business as well as all the necessary requirements you must have in place for a day care license.

Licensing requirements, regulations and applications vary from state to state and internationally. Details for your particular area can be found at the website of the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Childcare and Early Education. UK information is handled by Ofsted and in Ireland contact your local HSE Pre-school Officer plus the Childcare Authority can provide relevant contacts.

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. Taking into consideration all of the above a detailed evaluation of the proposed service is conducted before a day care license will be issued.

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: - Personal and contact details - Plans for the premises showing layout, playground and facilities - Hours of opening and number of children catered for - Details of staff - Details of the program you intend implanting - Menu information and schedules Details of the financial resources available

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 starting a daycare center.