A childcare
license is required for all individuals and daycare centers that provide care
to one or more children. To obtain a license, every facility needs to follow
standard norms and undergo regular inspection. Licensing can be obtained from
state licensing authorities. All applicants for childcare license require
mandatory orientation. State agencies conduct background checks on all employees
before granting the license to a facility.
As a parent, you should always inquire about
the license of a daycare center or an individual. Ensure that the license
is valid. In case a person or a center is operating without proper license,
report them immediately to the local authorities.
All childcare facilities are inspected by licensing
officials at least once a year to determine if they meet the minimum standards
and licensing laws. Such facilities are also inspected at least once a year
unannounced.
Licensing staff complete a compliance letter
or compliance evaluation form when an inspection is conducted. The most recent
letter or form is posted or available at the facility for parents' review.
During the process of monitoring, when a facility
fails to correct compliances in a timely manner, action against the facility
can result in evaluation, probation, suspension, administrative penalties,
or revocation of the license or registration certificate.
All states recognize broadly two types of legal
childcare facilities - one that is licensed and the other that is not licensed
but yet legal. Although, it is always recommended that you put your child
in a licensed facility, you may go with some of the unlicensed options to
save childcare costs.
Licensed facilities are classified into:
- Childcare Centers
- Childcare Homes
- Preschools
- School Age Childcare
- Large Home Childcare
Unlicensed facilities are classified into:
- Child being cared for in a home by a relative
- Child being cared for in a home by a non-relative
- Child being cared for out of a home by a
relative
- Child being cared for out of a home by a
non-relative
