| Maybe you've already decided that starting a daycare | | | | For starters, check out the licensing requirements in |
| center is for you, or maybe you're simply considering | | | | your state. Then go take a look at some successful |
| the idea. As with all entrepreneurial ideas, it's best to do | | | | daycare centers and try to talk to the owner or |
| your homework and research them thoroughly before | | | | manager. Don't be afraid to tell them that you're |
| jumping in midstream. | | | | thinking of starting a daycare facility and ask them for |
| Starting a daycare and making a success of it will | | | | any tips on how to make a go of it. |
| require certain very specific strengths in your situation | | | | While you're visiting the other daycare, notice their |
| and character and that of anyone who helps you | | | | setup. How is the place laid out? What kind of furniture |
| work it. Consider these essential traits: | | | | and supplies do they have? Ask them how hard it |
| -Do you like kids? | | | | was for them to start a daycare center. Ask to see |
| -Are you a people person? | | | | the contract they use. If they're reluctant, offer to buy |
| -Can you start a daycare center and run it for a year | | | | them lunch! If they say they don't have time, offer to |
| without a profit? | | | | hand them the money you would have spent on the |
| -Do you have childcare experience? | | | | lunch. Usually, though, successful business people are |
| -Are you a self-starter, responsible and reliable? | | | | happy to share tips. |
| -Are you willing to put in long hours, at least at first? | | | | Gather your information first. If you do a good job on |
| -Can you lead well? | | | | this first, crucial step, you will be rewarded when you're |
| If your answers were positive, read on. Otherwise | | | | ready to start a daycare. |
| starting a daycare center may not be for you. | | | | |