Resources for Starting a Child Care Business


New York's Guide to Becoming a Child Care Provider

The Office of Children and Family Services provides support for people and organizations interested in starting child day care programs in their communities.

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Types of Child Care

Brightside Up's tri-fold brochure (PDF) gives an overview of child care program types. The NYS Office of Children and Family Services also has a series of videos detailing the types of programs and the differences and benefits of each.

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Opening a Child Care Center

There are many things to consider when starting a new child care center. Read through this guide from Child Care Aware of America to help you think through the steps you need to take to operate a successful child care program.

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Opening a Family or Group Family Child Care Program

There are many things to consider when starting a new family child care business. Read the guide from Child Care Aware of America to help you think through the steps you need to take to operate a successful child care program.

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How to Start a Child Care Business in Your Home

Brightside Up's information session to help you start a child care program in your home.

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Dowling Law

Setting up a new business can be an exciting chapter of a small business owner's professional life. Download Dowling Law's Resources for Setting Up a Small Business for tips on where to start, questions to consider, and links to small business development resources.

Even if you only have one or two employees, your new small business will need a roadmap for HR functions. Start with Dowling Law's Human Resource Tips for Starting a New Business.

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New York Early Learning Alliance

A professional network of child care business owners and Directors in New York State and access free software and business support to help you save time on administrative tasks, increase your bottom line, and reduce your stress.

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Brightside Up's Quick Guide to Starting a Family Child Care Business

This 2-page pdf walks you through the basics and what to expect during the 90-application process

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Resources to Help Build a Quality Program

Resources to help build a quality child care program, understand children's needs and developmental milestones, and create an optimal environment for learning.

New York State EARLY LEARNING GUIDELINES: A Child Development Resource for Educators of Children Ages Birth Through Eight

A Resource to Special Education Support Services from the University of the State of NY Education Department

NYS Prekindergarten Learning Standards: A Resource for School Success from the NYS Education Department 2019

New York State's Core Competencies for Early Childhood Educators (CBK)

Family Guide to NYS Early Childhood Services - Prenatal through Age 5

DAP Briefs - Developmentally appropriate practice for early childhood

Community Playthings Classroom Design Guide for PreK Visit https://www.communityplaythings.com/ for more

Community Playthings Classroom Design Guide for Infant & Toddler Visit https://www.communityplaythings.com/ for more