I am trying to open up a daycare.

I am trying to start a daycare center, I live in Michigan.?

• I want to start a daycare, but I don't know how to go about it without getting my license. I need to know what you can do and how many kids you can have without a license? Also if you know what web sites that I can go to get get information on how to start a daycare with/out a license would help out a lot. That way I can look at the pros and cons of the two. I live in the city, so I don't know if that will matter on what I have to do get a daycare going.

• Answer:

  The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in. I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box. Associations may be a good avenue to explore as well. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links. Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant: * Start & Run a Home Daycare by Catherine M. Pruissen * Starting a Child Care Center: The Indispensable Guidebook for Starting a Day Care or Child Care Business by Millicent Gray Lownes-Jackson, * Opening & Operating A Successful Child Care Center by Dorothy June Sciarra * The Business of Child Care: Management and Financial Strategies by Gail H Jack There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles. Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!