Career in Child Care - Loving Kids Isn't Enough for This Hard Job

Know the Pros and Cons Before Becoming a Family Child Care Provider

Tough economic times are driving an increasing number of people to become family child care providers. Sometimes, a job loss is the reason behind considering a career in child care. For many working parents of small children, the cost of daycare is too hard of a hit on an already-tight family budget. Having a parent stay at home with their children while earning money by watching other kids at the same time may seem like a positive solution. But, is it?

A profession of watching children for hours every day is far from easy. Plus, simply "watching kids" isn't enough. A caregiver must first ensure that all kids are kept safe, healthy and happy. Nutrition needs have to be met along with reasonable protection against any injuries. But, that's just for starters. Care providers must also become early educators as well. Providers often offer early academic instruction, various forms of enrichment, and hours of entertainment daily. If a provider watches kids of differing ages, then that presents an even greater challenge. And, then there are the kids' parents to communicate with and handle their needs and expectations.

If that all still sounds good, look into what it takes to be a licensed family care provider in your state. Also consider what modifications or extras may need to be purchased in order for you to be considered a safe place for raising kids. Then, consider your own skills and qualifications. You'll certainly want to become CPR and first-aid trained, and that's just for starters. If you're still interested, there are a number of support sites and contacts.

Finally, you'll want to be sure that there is a market where you live for family child care services. Keep in mind that other families are paring back their household and child care expenses as well, so you'll need to provide affordable fees. Try and establish a niche or service that is different than others (such as weekend or evenings or even flexible or part-time care) to attract working parents who may have to work nontraditional hours and need nontraditional child care as a result.