Start Your Daycare
Your Roadmap to Opening a California Family Child Care Home
Opening a family child care home involves licensing, paperwork, training, home preparation, and more. Here's what you need to know — and how I can help you get there.
The Path to Opening Day
Every California Family Child Care provider walks through these key stages. I'll help you understand each one and move through them with confidence.
Decide on Your License Type
California offers two types of Family Child Care licenses: Small (up to 8 children) and Large (up to 14 children). Understanding the difference — and which fits your home and goals — is your very first step.
Complete Required Training
Before you can apply, you'll need to complete specific training hours including Pediatric First Aid & CPR, preventive health practices, and more. I'll help you understand exactly what's required and where to get it.
Prepare Your Home
Your home must meet specific safety and space requirements set by Community Care Licensing. This includes smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, safe storage, outdoor space, and more. I'll walk you through what inspectors look for.
Submit Your Application
The licensing application involves forms, fees, background checks, and documentation. I'll help you gather everything you need and understand the process so nothing falls through the cracks.
Pass Your Inspection
A Community Care Licensing analyst will visit your home to verify it meets all requirements. I'll help you prepare so you feel confident and ready on inspection day.
Set Up Your Business
Once licensed, you'll need to set up your business structure, open a business bank account, create your enrollment policies, set your rates, and prepare your parent documents. This is where it all comes together.
Licensing Preparation
Understanding California's Licensing Requirements
California's Community Care Licensing Division oversees Family Child Care Home licenses. The process can feel complex, but it becomes manageable when you break it down into clear steps.
I've been through the licensing process myself and I know exactly what to expect at each stage. I'll help you build your checklist, gather your documents, prepare your home, and walk into your inspection with confidence.
Talk to me about licensingKey Licensing Facts
- Small Family Child Care: up to 6 children
- Large Family Child Care: up to 14 children
- Background checks for all adults in the home
- Required training before application
- Home inspection by CCL analyst
- Annual renewal and ongoing compliance
Business Setup
Build a Business, Not Just a Daycare
Running a family child care home means running a small business. I'll help you set up the right foundation from the start.
Business Name & Structure
Choose a business name, understand your options for business structure, and get guidance on obtaining your EIN.
Rates & Pricing
Set competitive rates that reflect your value, cover your costs, and work for your local market.
Recordkeeping & Finances
Learn what financial records to keep, how to track income and expenses, and what to expect at tax time.
Insurance Guidance
Understand what types of insurance are recommended or required for family child care providers in California.
Parent Documents & Policies
Create enrollment packets, contracts, payment policies, illness policies, and handbooks that protect you and inform families.
Home Setup & Environment
Design a safe, welcoming, and organized child care space with age-appropriate learning areas, storage, and outdoor access.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
You don't have to figure this out alone. Whether you're just exploring the idea or ready to move forward, I'm here to help you take the next step.