Starting a daycare is very fulfilling because you are actually giving something back to the community, although, at the same time, you will be providing one of the most important services to families. But before you can open your doors, you need to go through the licensing process in Denver. So here's a quick guide on how you do it to actually ensure that you're going to be licensed in the state and succeed.
There are two major types of child care licenses that are allowed in Denver.
Family Child Care Home License
With this kind of a license, you offer the services of child care at your home but to fewer children. This is usually up to six children at a time. The number of the children may be increased depending on their age.
Non-Home Child Care License
This license is for facilities that take care of children outside their homes. Such centers accommodate many children and their operations require some more investment.
Pre-Licensing Requirements
Before making an application for your daycare license, there are a number of pre-licensing requirements you must meet:
Pre-Licensing Training
You have to undergo a 15-hour Family Child Care Pre-Licensing training program. The course entails topics that are elementary for child care, among them include:
- Child care rules and regulations
- Child growth and development
- Health, nutrition, and safety practices
- Professionalism and building community partnerships
And you will also need certifications for:
- First Aid and CPR
- Standard Precaution training
- Medication Administration training. These courses give you the knowledge you will use to safely and effectively care for the children.
Background Checks
All adults who live within your home or work in your daycare have to have a background check. This includes:
- A criminal background check
- A search for records of child abuse and neglect
- Verification against the state sex offender registry
- These are vital safeguards to observe to ensure that the children you take care of will be safe.
Physical Exams
Individuals who will apply for a Family Child Care Home License must undergo physical exams with all adults dwelling in the residence. This should give proof that the individual is healthy enough to work with children.
Apply for Your Daycare License
After completing the pre-licensing, it is now time for you to start applying for your daycare license in denver:
Set Up Your Account
Start by creating an account on the Colorado Shines Professional Development Information System (PDIS). This is how you will obtain training materials as well as application forms.
Application
Complete the correct application form to specify the type of license you want:
- Family Child Care Home Original License Application
- Non-Home Original License Application
Collect Required Documents
Get all the documents needed:
- Note: " Lawful presence" in the U.S.
- Completed Facility Child Abuse and Neglect (Trails) Request for non-resident employees (if applicable)
- Zoning approvals, fire safety inspections, and sanitation reports
Application and Fees
Submit your completed application and any associated fees through the Provider Hub or by mail with a check or money order Be sure to pay the correct fee so your application doesn't get delayed
Licensing Inspection Preparation
After you submit your application, you will need to prepare for an inspection
Complete Pre-Service Training
All mandatory training must be complete prior to the inspection date.
Inspection Date
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood will schedule an inspection within 45 days from receiving your application.
Inspection Day
A licensing specialist will visit your facility and inspect that you comply with the state laws. Among them are background checks, health statements, copies of training certificates, and the general state of the facility.
Post-Inspection Process
If your facility passes all its requirements during an inspection, then you're the champion-you get your daycare license! The license will let you operate legally within Colorado.
Continuation Compliance and Renewal
As much as you earned your license after passing through a very tight inspection, it's very important that you keep maintaining compliance with the state regulatory requirements going forward. Here are some essential points.
Expect Annual Inspection
You should know of any new changes in licensing requirements.
You should renew your license according to your state law.
Keep utilizing local resources, including Denver Early Childhood Council, for further support and training.
Conclusion
To obtain a daycare license in Denver, some planning is always necessary and especially if you are looking to adhere strictly to all the rules and regulations of the state. This all-inclusive guide will take you through the licensing process in confidence and set up a successful daycare that really makes an impact for families in your locality. Remember education and compliance are part and parcel of any successful childcare business.
