How to Get Started
Set Up a Budget
Startup costs for a daycare in Florida include items such as: readying the physical location, logistics like rent, renovations, playground equipment, furniture and security cameras. Other items that should be included in a startup budget include fees for starting utilities, licensing, inspections and insurance. You may also need to advertise for employees, and then pay to train them. Make a list of every possible startup expense and you’ll know how much money you’ll need to get started. We can help determine what the cost will be.
Licensing Requirements
Research the rules for your specific city and county regarding general business licensing, daycare specific licensing and occupancy requirements. Each city or county may have slightly different requirements, so it is important to contact the correct local office. If you are incorporating, start the process and choose a name for your daycare. When you have received all licenses, display copies in the appropriate areas of the daycare.
Choose a Location
New Development
If you have a site in mind where you would like to build – great! Let us know and we have contractors that can help with the entire build out of the facility. Keep in mind the number of families or children you wish to serve, and the number of classrooms you plan on running. The ideal facility will have enough playground space as well.
Purchase or Lease
Not interested in developing a facility? No problem, we’ve got you covered. Let us know how many families or children you’re looking to serve, as well as the number of classrooms you need to meet business goals and we can help you find the perfect facility for your students! You can either purchase the facility or lease it; we’re here to make sure you find a solution for success.
Government Review
Call your local licensing department and set up a meeting to review your plans or complete Florida’s Licensure Survey form for daycares, who will guide you through the specific daycare requirements for Florida. Your counselor will supply you with teacher licensing information and forms, and help you work through the complex daycare facility system. You will have to complete the counseling and meet all requirements before your daycare can open.
Set Up a Budget
Startup costs for a daycare in Florida include items that involve readying the physical location, like rent, renovations, playground equipment, furniture and security cameras. Other items that should be included in a startup budget include fees for starting utilities, licensing, inspections and insurance. You may also need to advertise for employees, and then pay to train them. Make a list of every possible startup expense and you’ll know how much money you’ll need to get started. We can help determine what these cost will be.
Hire Staff
Recruit, interview and hire a director, teachers and support staff. Work with your licensing counselor to be sure that each new hire meets the licensing requirements for a Florida daycare.
Purchase Supplies
Purchase toys, playground items and classroom supplies and stock your classrooms. If you are caring for infants, purchase baby furniture and products for your infant area.
Advertise Your Business
Begin advertising for daycare clients. Offer an introductory special or incentive to sign up early. Website, Social Media and more. If you need help with this step, we’re happy to help!
Tips:
- Hire an experienced lawyer
- Before you sign a lease or purchase contract, have the proposed building inspected by local fire, zoning and structural authorities. Once you are assigned a licensing counselor, it can take up to 90 days to work through the licensing process in Florida. Choose your opening day accordingly.
- Many daycare businesses fail in the first year because they underestimate the costs associated with running the business. Be as accurate as possible when setting up your budget. Since daycare workers in Florida require a background screening before they can work with children, be sure to factor in the time the screening takes as well.