How to Start a Child Care Business

If you are interested in starting a child-care business either in your home or at a center outside your home, here is what you need to do to get started.

Step 1
Review the types of care and consider which is appropriate for your situation.

Step 2:
Contact the local Child Care Licensing office of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services nearest you. Let staff know you are interested in starting a child care business and would like to request an information packet. Also, let staff know whether you are interested in starting a business in your home or at a center outside your home.

The contents of information packets vary by location but may include things such as:

• application forms;
  
• information about upcoming orientation sessions and how to register for them;
  
• training sources in your area for CPR and first aid; and
  
• contact information for local Child Care Licensing staff.

Step 3:
While you are waiting for your information packet to arrive, you may want to contact your local municipal government to see if there are any ordinances you will need to follow regarding issues such as zoning, fire safety and related inspections, and food service permits and inspections.

Step 4:
Familiarize yourself with the state's minimum standard rules for center and home based child-care businesses.

For more information:
Applicants Guide to Listed, Registered, and Licensed Child Care

Learn about child care regulations.