Throughout the communities in the North Country, there are far more children that need child care than there are slots available. In order to increase the availability of child care, we need to find individuals willing to open their own child care program and provide the high-quality care that children need. Having child care available not only allows families to secure stable employment or continue on with their education, but also provides an environment for children to learn and develop the social and emotional skills needed as they grow.
OCFS CHILD DAY CARE ORIENTATION
Any day care program planning to serve three or more children, for more than three hours a day on a regular basis, must obtain a license or registration. To start an application, you will have to take the Child Day Care Orientation.
This orientation will help you decide if operating a child care program is right for you. It outlines requirements for opening a child care program, spaces where care can be provided, the ratios of children to adults, and resources for providers.
CHILD CARE AWARE
Child Care Aware has a great resource to help guide you through important questions when you are considering opening your own in-home program. It includes any personal and professional considerations, creating a business plan, preparing a budget, some common categories to include in a family handbook, developmentally appropriate practice, and evaluating your indoor and outdoor environment.
Jefferson Community College Home-Based Child Care Training Program
The Home-Based Child Care Training program provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and support to become in-home child care providers. Jefferson County, the Community Action Planning Council, Jefferson Community College, and the Small Business Development Center have collaborated to design this innovative program. The program is provided at no cost to participants through the generous sponsorship of Jefferson County.
Program Benefits
- Become an In-Home Child Care Provider
- Free training
- Program Coordinator assigned to provide individual mentorship through the program
- SBDC Advisor assigned for one-on-one business counseling
- CAPC Regulator assigned to provide guidance on NYSOCFS approval
- Start-up supply funding may be available for eligible individuals through CAPC or Naturally Lewis, depending on county of residence and availability of funding