2roads
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4409
posted
I have been kicking around doing this or real estate. I have received a diploma for real estate training but I have to pass the board. I am studying for it.
The other option is to open a day care in my home. I don't know the first thing about that. I would start small, only up to 4 kids.
Has anyone done this and what do I need to know?
Thanks,
2roads
Posts: 2214 | From West Chester, PA | Registered: Aug 2003
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sammy
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 13952
posted
Start by talking with friends. Word will get out quickly. Someone will know someone who is looking for reliable childcare.
If you already have kids, taking on a couple more would probably be easiest for you. That way the kids can play together, you can still have fun and do things with your kids and it won't feel so much like work.
If you want to care for more than a couple kids you will probably need to look at state laws.
Good luck Posts: 5237 | From here | Registered: Nov 2007
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Hoosiers51
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Member # 15759
posted
Not sure. I think with the whole daycare thing, you could probably do it almost like babysitting, where it's word of mouth and people pay you in check or cash.....or I sure there is some way to make it more "official," and there is probably some kind of certification process you'd have to go through.
I bet the certification would involve taking First Aid (includes CPR), etc, and probably being educated on what is safe to have around your place, etc.
The certification (whatever it is, if it does exist) would probably make parents feel safer if they don't know you personally. It would probably be good also if you could have certain clients that don't mind if you give their number out as a reference.
To me, real estate seems like it would be really hard. You live in IN, right? I have inlaws that are realors in IN...it is a TON of work! If you want to be successful at it, you work long hours. That is my perception, at least.
So if I had to choose, I would think running a daycare would be easier.
I am also in the position where I'm thinking about what I'm going to do to bring in some money (once well enough). I will have to decide between either going back to school (then getting some kind of job) or figuring out some kind of job, to help contribute to bringing in some money.
I'm not healthy enough to do either yet, but I have been already started thinking what I'm going to do for $$ once I am better. Because of where we are moving, living will be more expensive, so me bringing in some money will be helpful.
Best of luck to you!!!!! (((hugs)))
Posts: 4590 | From Midwest | Registered: Jun 2008
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2roads
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4409
posted
Thanks Sammy and Hoosiers.
My kids are in school full time now.
I am going to take the real estate test the month and pursue a child home care program.
I want to begin working in the fall.
I want to do something that I am good at, and I want to make a decent living should I find myself a single parent.
I am trying to contact someone locally to assist me in the home licensing process, but if I only have 4 kids, do I really need to go through all that, and will Uncle Sam garnish my small wage if I get licensed?
ugh....
Posts: 2214 | From West Chester, PA | Registered: Aug 2003
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kam
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 3410
posted
I did the home child care thing a long time ago.
Mistakes I made were not charging if they did not show up. I later learned I needed to charge a monthly rate
I was licenses. That only means you do not have a record and you have removed your knives out of drawers that toddlers could get into.
Your home is checked for safety...also no cleaning products under the sink, etc.
By the time I deducted expenses, it was not worth it financially.
I learned that I could tell within 2 weeks if the child was going to work out with the other children.
I also made the mistake of not setting my hours to 40 hours a week.
I was taking care of kids around the clock. I also watched children who parents were working at night.
And I was watching children 7 days a week. If I were to do it over again, I would not do this.
Too many babies in diapers too and with running noses non stop.
parents would not bring enough diapers. Looking back I needed to charge for the diapers I purchased on my own.
I also provided food and snacks which needed to be factored into the cost. I just went by the going rate in the area.
it is a lot like any business...you do not see a profit for about 3 years.
I was amazed at the parents who would call and want me to watch their child that day without even meeting me or coming to see what the environment was like.
They assumed because I was licensed I was a good person. I was. But, they did not know that.
I would explain to them that having a license just meant i did not have a criminal record and the home had been inspected for safety.
I had a park nearby which worked out great.
I was a single parent at the time with a baby at home and one child in school.
I worked harder doing that job than any other I have done with less pay than I have ever earned after expenses were deducted.
I had my carpets professionally cleaned every 3 months to keep things clean for the babies.
I also had no down time.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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2roads
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4409
posted
Kam,
Your experience is very helpful. Some of the things you confronted I had asked others about, some I didn't think of.
I do know you have to charge them even if they don't come. I was told you do not charge only when you must shut down for any reason, usually vacation or sickness.
I know it must be set hours, whether the parents like it or not, especially if it's a weekly/monthly rate.
Did you have to pay taxes because of licensure?
I would not provide diapers. I am hoping my clientele is quality not quantity and I have only children between 2-6 yrs old. I do not want more then 4 children.
I would supply the food.
I would charge $150.00 per child per week. That's $600.00 per week- food bill.
Only my downstairs would be accessable. The upstairs would be gated.
I have a large downstairs and a good yard with a large play set.
I would schedule vacation time and handout a fact sheet explaining all of this. It's likely no one would come.
My hours would be 7:30-5 pm or maybe 8-5:30 pm. Anytime over is charged additional.
You are a teacher now based on your profile. Did you receive training in that after the home care thing?
Posts: 2214 | From West Chester, PA | Registered: Aug 2003
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kam
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 3410
posted
I had the two years of early childhood ed at a local community college before opening the day care.
but, I did return to college after having the day care business to get my teacher's credential.
It sounds like you have things worked out.
As far as taxes, I do not recall that being an issue. Most likely due to write off's for having your own business.
I also recall talking to the insurance company re: having the day care at home and what I needed for homeowners insurance to protect myself.
But, never had any problems. One single mom I knew who did have her own home and a child care business at her home did have something go wrong..a broken leg or something and learned the hard way to do whatever she needed to take care of that..again..to long ago to recall what that was all about...just recall her not being able to make her house payments for a while because she went in the hole.
I kept the babies dry. I was surprised at a couple of mom's who had a set amount of diapers they used on their day's off with their children and thought I should do the same.
They would keep them in wet diapers a long time.
That was just two mom's out of all the families I dealt with.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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2roads
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4409
posted
I don't have anything worked out Kam...I am so depressed.
I am now leaning more to real estate.
I spent 13 years rearing 2 children after receiving a Master's degree, have become totally stupid in my field, and now feel a failing marriage necessitates a career.
But, I've served the family for so long, I don't know where to start.
I guess the truth is out. Posts: 2214 | From West Chester, PA | Registered: Aug 2003
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Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673
posted
- State licenses can vary. I thought some required current first aid and CPR certification. I used to teach CPR for the Red Cross and we had lots of child care workers in our classes.
Now, some states require electronic fingerprinting for child care workers. In my state, that's a brand new regulation.
I'd want to talk with an attorney about all the legalities, including the kind of insurance coverage you'd need in case someone gets hurt while in your care, regardless of how that happened -- or in your home or anywhere on your property.
I knew a parent once who sued their neighbor when their child broke his foot jumping off the neighbor's porch. Hopefully, such unreasonable persons are rare but you need protection.
You might also need legal documents from each parent with permission to take a child to emergency care (or call 911 -or other medical transport) if the parents could not be reached. The way that document would be worded, and the parents' signature could protect you in several ways.
There also may be legal documents for what the children can bring with them - in case another child gets into a kid's pocket and eats something they should not, etc.
Pardon the cautions. I used to teach a class in contingency planning. I've had so many mishaps of my owns that looking ahead for prevention is second nature.
Mostly, though, I cannot imagine having the energy to spend ten minutes with a child of any age. It's a enormous undertaking just in that regard.
Were I to have energy, (and you may have that) there may be some other sort of niche for child care in very controlled and time-limited environments. If you are skilled in a certain area, you could teach a class or have an ongoing open workshop.
This could be just about anything. And it could be something you are not yet skilled in but would love to do. Learn more, and then share that love of it. Provide a place for kids to grown in a unique way.
My speed would be to just have a reading room &/or conversation room for older kids to come after school. And then, I'd want to extend it to a music school. My desires get ahead of my energy.
Such an "activity center" could range from structured instruction in yoga, to Tai Chi, to art, to music or writing - or public speaking and self assurance tutoring. You could bring in other instructors or guests, too. It would be so much easier to contain the context and the schedule this way.
And - Real Estate is picking up - and you may be able to reinvent your role. So many areas are over looked. You might work with some owners to recreate true affordable living.
Whatever calls to you - it may be a whole new picture but the beauty is that you can recreate just about anything. What's needed? What would be appreciated? How would that look or work? Have fun. -
Posts: 48021 | From Tree House | Registered: Jul 2007
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2roads
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
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posted
Thanks Keebler for your wise words. You are right about the legal issues you mention, especially in this day and age.
I received a call from a local home care consultant with the state. He left a message saying I start with a training type/informational class. I can see it now as someting out of "Cool Runnings"....."so who wants in?...." (no one was left.)
You have good ideas but I am not worthy of them. I am not that artistic or musically inclined. I am a nurturer though.
Wherever your tranquil tree house is, maybe you can convert it into the "magic tree House" and transport yourself next door. I sure cold use your lead. Posts: 2214 | From West Chester, PA | Registered: Aug 2003
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randibear
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 11290
posted
first, check your city ordinances. ours does not allow for child care businesses in the home.
no sense in wasting time if it can't be done.
-------------------- do not look back when the only course is forward Posts: 12262 | From texas | Registered: Mar 2007
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Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673
posted
- 2roads,
Well, nurturers certainly are needed. I can see a quiet oasis of sorts from the busy world. I have very fond memories of the woman who nearly raised me and 5 siblings as my folks were gone a lot and not really the kind to get close.
I just called her today. She's 94 and still has a very special place in my heart. I wish I were able to travel to see her but it seems highly unlikely. So, with each call, I wonder if it will be our last.
It does takes a village. I hope you find your niche. We need more nurturers in the world, for sure. That is an inner talent that few really have in the proper degree. Keep the light shining. -
Posts: 48021 | From Tree House | Registered: Jul 2007
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2roads
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
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posted
That's a good point Randibear. I should check that first. Thanks.
Thanks also for reminding me about how much a nurturing person can leave an impression in someone's life, Keebler. I think it's great that she is still alive. Thank goodness we have a phone to communicate. I'm sure it makes her day as well hearing from you.
I have been sick this weekend. Some kind of throat infection. I have not studies my real estate because of that. I will try today to, but I have sweats like a fever, and I coughed all night.
ugh............
Posts: 2214 | From West Chester, PA | Registered: Aug 2003
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What happened?
Posts: 921 | From CT | Registered: Apr 2009
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Hoosiers51
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 15759
posted
It is kind of ironic....lately I've been feeling a little better, and thinking I would like to help my husband by bringing in some money if possible.
And I'm considering, of all things....real estate!
Kind of funny considering a couple months ago I was saying how much work it is.
For some reason, it is just something I see myself doing. But who knows really.
I am thinking of seeing if any real estate corporations need interns, just to surround myself with it, so I can see if it's something I would do okay in.
I live in CA now, so I am a little worried about how difficult it could get here....both with the current state of real estate, and also considering CA is such a different type of market.
I would not be ready to start yet, but I am considering it. I want to give myself about 6 more months at least, to keep recovering.
2roads....how are you doing? What did you decide?
Posts: 4590 | From Midwest | Registered: Jun 2008
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kam
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 3410
posted
Looking forward to hearing from someone who actually is in the market.
When I first moved here a local couple had an office and had to shut it down.
one is now working at Walmart last I heard.
Don't know what the husband is doing.
But, they were working under the umbrella of another couple.
I have considered it but I could not read the books to learn the material I need to pass the exam right now and haven't been able to ever since my health went south in 2001.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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Are the books available on tape? Could you just play the tapes over - and - over - and - over - and -
Posts: 921 | From CT | Registered: Apr 2009
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kam
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 3410
posted
Nice thought Grandmother but I have yet to get back my listening skills too. The brain has trouble processing or taking in things.
but, this does not mean I am willing to let the idea go on down the line.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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2roads
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4409
posted
I'm here.
Sorry.
Well, a lady in our neighborhood came with a petition the other day to our home to block her neighbors Massage business next door to hers. There were some legal homeowners clauses listed.
I realized a child care business probably won't be allowed. But, I have not researched it yet. I have been caught up in the summer with children and no summer camps.
Anyway, Grandmother, Hoosiers and Kam (you guys are great), I have decided to pursue my real estate career. When the kids go back I will cram and take my State Board. I actually have a friend that might go into real estate as well, and I can see us working as a team down the line after we both gain experience.
I am also dabling in something else. My very artsy friend has me thinking about it. It is a surprise. I don't want to put any pressure on myself. Plus, it may not be accepted. But, if it becomes so....you three will be the first to know. It stems from a more creative side of me, so I must reserve space.
Big Hugs,
2roads
Posts: 2214 | From West Chester, PA | Registered: Aug 2003
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