How to Start a Daycare or Preschool

One of the first steps is to get licensed by DCFS. If you give them a call they can set up a homesteady. Someone will come out to your house and evaluate the space that you are going to use, your home and employees.

That is as far as I have gotten. :-) Good luck, this is somehting I have always wanted to do. As a matter of fact, I was really thinking about starting an evening daycare for parents that work nights. I dont think there are many of those.

Also get in touch with Children's Home and Aid. They offer Foundations which is a group of two hour meetings that will teach you everything you need to know to start and run a family daycare. I am not sure where you are at but here's the number for the Northwest Suburban office ###-###-####. I am sure they will help get you started in the right direction. If you have any questions please give me a reply. I have been a family daycare provider for 17 years and have loved it.

Cheryl

Your other poster is correct. Contact DCFS. They will mail you an application to fill out along with other needed forms. Once your forms have cleared, they inspect your home and you are on your way. With your background, it should be an easy process.

Good Luck!
Amy

I’m in the middle of changing careers and starting a daycare. I attended an all-day conference regarding how to open one. DCFS requires you to take a few classes like First Aid and CPR, but these great to have under your belt anyway since you have a child. You can also look on the www.actforchildren.org website to see what the requirements are and link you up with the closest resources in your area. For a working mom, it’s a great way to spend time with your children, make money and own your own business.

Good luck.