| Starting a daycare center, like any other business, | | | | reasonably priced toys. You just need to think of |
| requires an initial investment of sorts. This | | | | how many kids you plan to have in your day care |
| shouldn't make you give up your dreams of | | | | and plan accordingly. Remember that you can |
| having your own daycare. It's just something to | | | | always buy more toys later if you find that you |
| be aware of when you begin making your plans. | | | | need them. |
| How Much Does it Cost to Start a Daycare | | | | 4. Books - Children books can be bought used. |
| Center? | | | | The kids won't tell the difference and it's a great |
| The good news is that it doesn't have to cost all | | | | way to save more than 50% of the cost of |
| that much. Of course, if you're not careful, you | | | | books. |
| can spend a lot of money on the startup, but if | | | | 5. Advertising - If you plan to start with just a |
| you're okay with beginning modestly and slowly | | | | few kids, you really don't need to invest a lot in |
| expanding your business, then the initial | | | | advertising. You just need to spread the word |
| investment doesn't have to be large. | | | | around and let word of mouth help you get |
| Here are some of the things you will need to | | | | started. |
| invest in when you start your daycare center: | | | | 6. Management software - A daycare |
| 1. Permits and licenses - These shouldn't cost too | | | | management software shouldn't cost all that |
| much but they are an expense. Each state has its | | | | much, especially if you're just getting started. You |
| own regulations so you will need to check where | | | | can get a software for less than $50. |
| you live. However, this expense shouldn't be that | | | | Other than that, be prepared to shell out some |
| high. | | | | extra cash on unexpected expenses, but overall, |
| 2. First aid kit - Very important and often looked | | | | if you're starting small with under 5 kids and you |
| over. Kids tend to get banged up. You need to be | | | | have your own place to run your business in, it |
| to administer first aid. | | | | shouldn't cost a lot to start a daycare center. |
| 3. Toys - There are plenty of sources of | | | | |