Building a new center or renovating space in an existing building is a complex job. There are many resources to help you during your planning phase.
To make your job easier, consider a team approach. Your team can help you make sure that your space is friendly, functional and meets required standards.
Your team can help you address the following topics:
Child care licensing: Your state licensing regulations give guidance about policies you need to observe. Child Care Aware's State by State Resource Map provides you with a direct link to the office in your state that is responsible for child care licensing.
Facility design: You will need to plan for many types of spaces for a variety of uses. Think about how the following needs would apply to either a child care center or family child care program.
An area where providers can take breaks away from the childrenBathrooms and handwashing areas for both children and adultsChild activity roomsEating areaHallwaysJanitorial closets (lockable)Kitchen and food storage areaLaundry areaManagement and administrative areaRoom for large motor activitiesStorage for individual children's possessionsStorage for equipment and materials for adult useReception areaAlso see Location - indoor and outdoor spaces.