Childcare in America is a $22 billion industry, and the demand for quality childcare providers has never been greater. There are more children in daycare and more two-parent families
where both parents work outside of the home. The good news is that you have plenty of options when it comes to starting your own childcare business
, whether you want to be a daycare center or start preschools for toddlers! This article will discuss the different types of child care businesses to make an informed decision about which one best meets your goals.
There are many different types of childcare businesses to choose from, but we'll help you find the best one for your goals. You can also read about the benefits and drawbacks of each type of child care business. Whether it's a daycare center or an in-home care service, there are plenty of options out there that will work with your budget and lifestyle.
What are the different types of childcare businesses?
- Daycare Center
- Childcare with a preschool
- Preschool only
- Home Childcare Business
What is a childcare center?
Daycare centers offer care for children of all ages, but typically up to 12 years old. These childcare businesses usually operate from about six in the morning until about seven at night Monday through Friday and often Saturday mornings. Some areas may need 24/7 childcare centers to support the workforce.
Starting a childcare business is one of the safest and most profitable investments you can make. If you are wondering what type of business to start, a daycare center is one option. Daycare centers offer care for children of all ages, but typically up to 12 years old. These childcare businesses usually operate from about six in the morning until about seven at night Monday through Friday and often Saturday mornings. Daycares are often the best quality care option for working, single or lower-income families who can't afford private preschools.
The pros of opening a childcare center
- The most obvious benefit of opening a daycare center is that you will be providing valuable childcare services to those in your community.
- Daycares also offer the opportunity to make money from infant age to early middle school.
- Grow your daycare business by adding before-and-after-school programs and summer camps that help keep kids active over summer break.
- Most States offer parents assistance to pay for childcare services.
The cons of opening a childcare center
- The high levels of stress of dealing with children, parents, and employees.
- Finding good quality daycare teachers and keeping them happy.
- The cost of opening a childcare center is much higher than home-based child care businesses because it requires more space and equipment, and licensing fees.
- Collecting payments from the parents.
- Dealing with the ever-changing government regulations.
How To Open A Preschool Business
Preschools offer language arts, math instruction, and developing social skills through playtime in an infant care center. Preschools typically offer scheduled classes with playtime in the morning and afternoons, with lunch. The work schedule is usually between eight to 12 hours per day during weekdays. Owning a preschool is a significant undertaking and is not for everyone. In addition, preschools need to be licensed, registered, or accredited institutions. Laws vary in every State.
The pros of opening a preschool are:
- A preschool can be a lucrative business.
- A preschool provides more opportunities for expansion than other child care businesses.
- Watching the growth of the children in your care will be rewarding.
The cons of opening a preschool are:
- There is no way around local and State childcare licensing laws, so if you want to open your preschool, make sure you have all the paperwork in order beforehand, or else expect some hefty fines.
- Preschools also require an initial investment that may cost $50,000 upfront before opening doors depending on location and size requirements set by law within each State.
- Employee costs will be higher due to the education needed for a preschool teacher.
Is A Home Base Childcare Business Profitable?
Opening a childcare business in your home can be profitable. Unlike daycare centers, this type of childcare operates during the hours that match your availability. However, home-based businesses are often more challenging to manage than commercial locations because there's no buffer between the caregiver and child. When you watch children in your home, it requires much higher levels of care for children who might be injured by playing around or exploring things on their own. You may need to sacrifice some home amenities for the safety of the children.
A Home Childcare Business can provide extra income for parents and grandparents looking to work from home and stay close to family members who need assistance. An in-home daycare means that parents can drop their children off at your home for care while they work or run errands, or go to work. This type of service offers convenience for both parents and providers alike.
However, before starting a daycare center at home, make sure you understand the risks involved. For instance, a common misconception is that the lack of zoning laws and regulations around a home-based location will make it easier.
The pros of offering childcare in your home
- Less oversight from state laws means you'll have more freedom in how to run your daycare center at home.
- You can stay close to family members who need assistance.
- Home childcare businesses can provide extra income for parents and grandparents while helping out a family member.
- You may be able to keep child care costs lower than a traditional childcare business because there are no rent or lease expenses.
- A Home ChildCare Business is easier to start with less paperwork, permits, training requirements, government regulations that need follow-up, etc.
The Cons of Starting a Daycare Center at home
- There's a higher chance of getting sued since the children are in your home
- Time off due to illness or an emergency can be difficult
- You'll need special home insurance
- Your local laws cap the number of children you can have
- Your parents think you work 24/7 and may stretch drop-off and pick-up times
In conclusion
You've heard it before, but we can't say it enough. Starting your own childcare business is an exciting endeavor, but it will take hard work and dedication if you want to achieve success like any other business. There are a few things to ask yourself when deciding on the correct childcare business venture. How much can I afford to invest? Do I want to care for children or manage a group of caretakers? We hope this blog gave some food for thought as well as a little bit of inspiration!
