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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.

You will need to ensure that you are offering a safe, hygienic day care environment that supports healthy nutrition, appropriate activities and the overall development and protection of the child because that is exactly what the day care licensing process is designed to do. 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: - 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

Once submitted you will undergo an initial consultation with the licensing representatives to discuss the feasibility of starting a program in your area, review the regulations and examine your financial resources. A preliminary, announced visit shall be made by a day care licensing evaluator to assess the premises and determine whether or not compliance with the regulations can be met. During this visit the following will be examined: - Telephone in working order - Fire detection facilities - Fire fighting equipment - That all hazardous substances are stored appropriately - That there is adequate ventilation and heating - That the overall facility is safe - That the facility is clean and hygienic That all toys and educational equipment is safe and appropriate

You will be issued or denied a day care license following review of your entire application process. Generally, licenses are valid for a year and must be displayed in a conspicuous place at all times. Get up to date and stay on top of regulations with the following resources: Building Blocks - the latest guidelines are contained in this document in an easily accessed and understandable format. Also, Stepping Stones - good source of key health and safety practices that reduce disease disability and death in child care facilities. Your chances of success in applying for day care licensing increase dramatically if you arm yourself with knowledge in advance, so, do the preparation and good luck starting your day care.