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As you begin the journey to making a difference in the lives of Indiana’s children, Child Care Answers is here to guide you through the process of starting your child care business. To open a licensed family child care home, you’ll need to fulfill a variety of requirements. We’re here to hold your hand, every step of the way.
In order to become licensed as a family child care home, you must complete the following trainings. You will register for all trainings in Indiana Learning Paths, which you can access through the I-LEAD portal. All of these courses are available online 24/7, and some classes may be available in a face-to-face or live-virtual format.
Although not required for licensing, we highly recommend that you join one of our free emerging child care provider support groups. These cohorts are based on the individual needs of the people in your group and meet monthly.
We discuss resources for funding, food programs, furniture and materials, and professional development. We also bring in experts so you have an opportunity to ask questions. Presenters may include licensing consultants, current providers, marketing specialists, tax accountants, or attorneys.
You will learn more in Orientation II about what is required for a family child care home. You will also need to check with your local municipality as some municipalities require you to submit documentation for your child care business.
The Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning (OECOSL) mandates child care center rules and regulations and the application process from a state perspective. This includes requirements such as fingerprinting and drug testing of all staff. You’ll also need to ensure you abide by local regulations for your county, city, or town.
Although not required, our program engagement specialists can do a walkthrough of your child care program before the licensing consultant comes for your inspection. We can provide guidance on:
Next, you must complete a number of forms and submit copies of paperwork as a part of the process. You’ll learn more in your Orientation II course.
You will submit your application and all associated paperwork on the I-LEAD portal. Child Care Answers is happy to provide free support to you during this process.
Finally, your licensing consultant will come out to your home for your licensing inspection. They have 60 days from the time you submit your application to schedule a time.