Licensed Day Care or Not

I also take care of one family at a time for extra money I am NOT licensed only because I don't have the time to go throught the hassel. You don't have to be licensed if you are only watching one families kids. I am a foster parent have a back ground check done and visits from the social worker I love kids but don't feel that having 6-10 kids is whats best for a child. I say use your neighbor if you think she will give them good care thats what matters not a piece of paper. Good luck

its a fine line... "licensing" is a State requirement. BUT, LOTS of "babysitters" do not have a license.... it is a complicated and costly thing to complete in some States.

Like many things in life, being a "licensed" person does not mean they are better... or worse. My friend for example, casually babysat... but could NOT afford all the "requirements" to make her home into a "licensed" home facility. But she still babysat. It was just 1-2 other kids. And she is a great babysitter and great with children, and has a Masters Degree in child development, and CPR.

So, its up to you. Even "licensed" Daycare facilities have had troubles with the law too. Or child endangerment/crimes too. Unlicensed child care as well. So, it is the caregiver... that is responsible for any said actions or not.

But if the babysitter is "unlicensed"... then you CANNOT claim a child-care deduction on your taxes. AND, your friend cannot write off or claim any costs/income... because she is probably operating under the table and getting paid that way or in cash.

I would also see if she has liability insurance, if she has a "Contract" that you and she sign off on, if she have "rules" and gives you this information etc. AND, "back ground" check her too.

At least, you already know her, and has been a long time neighbor.

For some, its an ethical issue, and for others there is no difference between a "licensed" or un-licensed Home-Daycare.

I cannot make the decision for you, but just some ideas.

All the best,
Susan

I would listen to your instincts. Save the money and know that your son would be getting lots of attention from someone who already knows him. Just because a day care is licensed, doesn't mean it's good.

Hi C., I am a licensed daycare. The benefit of a licensed daycare is know that the provider has been through a Child Abuse index investigation, and has been finger printed, the license protects, you your son, and the provider in the case that something does happen, A person who is NOT licensed. by law can only watch/babysit children from one family at a time, unlicensed individuals can not legally run a daycare from their home. Also a licensed provider is CPR certified, also is certified in first aid. It may cost a little more, but you get more, plus in a regular daycare your son will get to play with other children his age. How much does she charge? and does she provide meals? does she provide an education, does she potty train, the legal aspect I would take in great consideration. J. L.

I am also a daycare provider for 25yrs. I think licensing is to protect the children from anyone that has contact with them,they should have a criminal clearance.
I did child-care for a year before I got licensed.
There are lots of benefits when you are licensed.
I think if you decide to care for more than one family
you should follow the law.
The law is to protect the children.
Its a law to have a drivers license, and if you get caught
driving without a license there are fines.
Our children should also be protected and if you have
nothing on your record you should follow the law and get
a child care license. It's not expensive.

Also its important to have CPR & first aid in case a child
needs help. The licensing dept. also makes sure that the
home is child proof. I cannot think of a reason not to
be licensed unless you have something to hide.

If you decide to run a home child care business do the right thing
get a license and follow the rules and the law.
Parents should be aware that this only protects their kids
from harm. As a parent that is your responsiblity to make sure that your children are protected when you are not able to be home with them.
You as parents are your childs advocate. Protect them from harm. They deserve to be well taken care of.
Cheaper is not always better. Saftey is more important....

Hi there C.,

I am a licensed in-home childcare provider, that is also a member of the SD Child Care Association.

Here is a question to ask yourself:
Would you trust this neighbor to come to YOUR house to watch your son? If the answer is yes, then you have nothing to worry about, since she would not need to be licensed if she came to your house.

By CA law, you DO NOT NEED A LICENSE in your home if you are caring for only ONE family at a time. If she is caring for your son and another child, then she does require a license.

That's the nitty gritty of it. However, having a legal document does not make you a better provider. I have come across many licensed providers who shouldn't be caring for children at all!! You get teachers / doctors / many other professsional who can be lowsy in their field.

The bottom line is if you feel that your son is in a caring,nurturing and safe environment, then all is well. By the sound of things, your neighbor sounds like the perfect fit for you.

Take care,
P. Smith