How to Open a Daycare in California

Opening a daycare in California can be exciting. If you have a passion for early education and want to be your own boss, you might consider starting your own childcare business. However, before you can launch your daycare business, it is important to do all your research to be sure you are meeting the correct licensing requirements for the type of daycare you are opening. 

At Winnie, we specialize in providing expert guidance and insights into the daycare and preschool industry. We’ve put together this guide that dives into the licensing requirements for starting a daycare in California along with information about the application process and maintaining compliance. 

Table of Contents

Do you need a childcare license in California?

Overview of state requirements in California

Childcare License Application in California

What to Do After Applying for a Childcare License in California

Overview of Steps to become a licensed childcare

Making the business successful (FAQ)

Do you need a childcare license in California?

In California, a childcare license is required if you intend to offer care to children from multiple families. However, it's important to note that you may be exempt from licensing requirements if you provide care solely for children from one other family or your own relatives.

Childcare licensing in California is overseen by the Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) of the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). This department assumes the responsibility of overseeing childcare businesses in the state, making sure they are following the rules and regulations required for licensing. 

California has two primary types of daycare licenses: Family Child Care Home Licenses for family-based childcare homes (FCHs) and Child Care Center Licenses for childcare centers (CCCs). Depending on your business model, you'll require a Family Child Care Home License if you plan to operate the daycare in your residence or a Child Care Center License for a commercial facility. Furthermore, you have the option to apply for a California daycare license as an individual, a group, or an institution.

There are several key differences between child care homes and child care centers in California:

Family Child Care Home (FCH)
Family Child Care Homes are typically located in the provider's residence. These facilities are run out of a provider's home, and the provider may care for a smaller number of children compared to Child Care Centers.

Child Care Center (CCC): Child Care Centers are often situated in commercial or non-residential buildings. These centers are designed to accommodate a larger number of children and may have multiple classrooms or age-specific areas.

Capacity:

Family Child Care Home (FCH): FCHs have a smaller capacity and are generally limited to caring for a smaller number of children. The specific capacity may vary based on factors such as the size of the home and the provider's qualifications.

Child Care Center (CCC): Child Care Centers have a larger capacity and can accommodate a significantly higher number of children. The capacity of a CCC depends on factors such as the facility's size, staff-to-child ratios, and the age of the children being cared for.

Provider:

Family Child Care Home (FCH): FCHs are typically operated by an individual or a family, often with the provider serving as the primary caregiver. Some FCHs may have assistant caregivers, but they are generally smaller-scale operations.

Child Care Center (CCC): Child Care Centers are operated by organizations or entities and may have multiple staff members, including directors, teachers, aides, and support staff. Centers often serve a broader range of ages and offer structured programs.

Licensing Process:

Family Child Care Home (FCH): The licensing process for FCHs involves meeting specific requirements related to the provider's qualifications, home safety, and background checks. FCHs are regulated by the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) of the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).

Child Care Center (CCC): Child Care Centers must adhere to a more extensive set of regulations and requirements, including those related to facility safety, staff qualifications, and program curriculum. CCCs are also regulated by the CCLD, but the licensing process is typically more complex due to the larger scale of operations.

Overview of state requirements in California

The following are key licensing requirements mandated by California state law:

For Family Child Care Home Providers:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must reside in the home
• Must possess a clear criminal record
• Must undergo a TB test
• Must complete 16 hours of Pediatric Health and Safety training from an Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) approved vendor or accredited college/university
• Must furnish proof of at least one year of experience as a small family childcare home licensee, or as a teacher or director in a licensed childcare center for large family childcare home applicants

Family Child Care Home Capacity Requirements: 

The capacity regulations differ for small and large family child care homes:

• Small family child care home capacity: Limited to four infants (0-24 months) or six children, with no more than three infants and three older children over 2 years old. An option for up to eight children is permissible, provided no more than two are infants, and six are older children, including two school-age children. Additionally, caring for more than six children requires landlord consent and written parent notification.
• Large family child care home capacity: Allows for up to twelve children, including a maximum of four infants (0-24 months) and eight 2-year-old children. A qualified assistant, at least 14 years old, is required for this capacity. Alternatively, a large family child care home can accommodate up to 14 children, with no more than three infants (0-24 months) and eleven children over 2 years old. Similar to small family child care homes, caring for more than twelve children necessitates landlord consent and written parent notification.

For Childcare Center Providers: 

The qualifications required for childcare center providers are as follows:

Directors:

• Early childhood education background, such as a degree in child development
• Training in administration or staff relations
• A minimum of four years of teaching experience

Teachers:

• Early childhood education training
• A minimum of six months of experience in a licensed childcare center

Aides:

• Early childhood education training
• High school diploma or enrollment in a recognized ROP program at an accredited high school

Childcare Center Capacity Requirements: 

Childcare centers must adhere to staff-to-child ratio requirements for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children:

Infant Ratios:

• One teacher for every four infants
• Alternatively, one fully qualified teacher and two aides for 12 infants

Toddler Ratios:

• One teacher for every six toddlers
• Alternatively, one fully qualified teacher and one aide for 12 toddlers

Preschool Ratios:

• One teacher for every 12 children
• Alternatively, one teacher and one aide for 15 children
• One fully qualified teacher and one aide for 18 children

School-age Ratios:

• One teacher for every 14 children
• Alternatively, one fully qualified teacher and one aide for 28 children

Childcare License Application in California 

The process of obtaining a Family Child Care Home License or Child Care Center License in California involves several steps:

Step 1: Attend a Childcare Licensing Orientation

Begin by attending either an online or in-person childcare licensing orientation, depending on the type of childcare business you intend to establish—Family Child Care Home License orientation or Child Care Center License orientation. This orientation serves as a crucial introduction to the requirements and regulations governing daycare businesses in California. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable orientation fee, and ensure that you meet the minimum criteria for either license application before attending.

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with Licensing Laws and Regulations 

It is essential to acquaint yourself with the pertinent laws and regulations governing family child care home licensing or child care center licensing in California. Particular attention should be given to health and safety codes, including those related to fire protection, communicable disease prevention and control, and environmental health

Step 3: Complete and Submit Your Application 

Depending on your business model, complete either the Family Child Care Home License application or the Child Care Center License application. These applications involve various forms and documentation requirements, and it is important to follow the specific guidelines provided for each. Additionally, certain fees will apply, and the submission of proof of orientation completion, preventive health practices training, childcare experience, and TB clearance is required.

Step 4: Pre-Licensing Inspection for Family Child Care Home License 

If you are applying for a Family Child Care Home License, you will need to prepare for a pre-licensing inspection. A licensing program analyst will contact you following the submission of your application package to assess your compliance with specific requirements, such as home cleanliness, safety measures, and emergency preparedness.

Step 5: Await Approval 

The entire application process typically spans 60 to 90 days, during which your application will be reviewed, and necessary inspections conducted.

What to Do After Applying for a Childcare License in California

Once you've completed the application process and submitted your paperwork for a childcare license in California, there are several essential steps to take as you await approval. 

These steps will help you prepare for the next phase of launching your childcare business:

1. Attend Pre-Licensing Orientation (if required): Depending on the type of license you're applying for, you may need to attend a pre-licensing orientation. These orientations provide valuable information about the licensing process, regulatory requirements, and what to expect during inspections. It's an opportunity to clarify any doubts and gain a deeper understanding of your responsibilities as a childcare provider.
2. Prepare for Inspections: After your application is submitted, you can expect pre-licensing inspections. These inspections are conducted to ensure that your childcare facility meets all safety and health standards set by the state. Be ready for visits from licensing specialists who will evaluate your facility's physical environment, safety measures, and adherence to regulations.
3. Maintain Compliance: During the waiting period, it's crucial to continue complying with any relevant health and safety codes and regulations. Ensure that your facility remains in good condition and that all safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and smoke alarms, are functional. Consistently following health and safety protocols will increase your chances of a successful inspection.
4. Prepare Required Documentation: Keep all necessary documentation readily available for review during inspections. This includes records of staff qualifications, health screening reports, emergency plans, financial information, personnel policies, enrollment agreements, and other documentation specific to your facility type.
5. Hire and train staff: If you plan to hire staff, make sure they undergo any required training and obtain the necessary certifications. Staff members should be well-prepared to provide quality care and adhere to state regulations. Keep records of their training and qualifications.
6. Communicate with Licensing Specialists: Maintain open lines of communication with licensing specialists. If you have any questions or concerns during the waiting period, don't hesitate to reach out to them for clarification or guidance. They can provide valuable insights and address any issues that may arise.
7. Review and Update Policies: Continuously review and update your facility's policies and procedures to ensure they align with licensing requirements. This includes safety protocols, emergency response plans, and operational policies related to the care and well-being of children.
8. Fulfill Additional Requirements: Depending on your specific situation and the type of childcare license you're pursuing, there may be additional requirements to fulfill. Stay informed about any additional steps or documentation needed for your license application.
9. Prepare for Annual Renewal: Keep in mind that childcare licenses in California typically require annual renewal. Familiarize yourself with the renewal process, including deadlines and fees. Staying organized and proactive about renewals will help maintain your compliance with licensing regulations.
10. Plan for the Grand Opening: While awaiting your license, start planning for your childcare facility's grand opening. Consider marketing strategies, enrollment procedures, and staff hiring if applicable. Creating a positive first impression and establishing a safe, nurturing environment for children will set the tone for your childcare business.

Overview of Steps to become a licensed childcare

As you await approval, there are several crucial tasks and considerations to address to ensure the success of your childcare business. Here's an overview of what to expect and how to prepare:

1. Develop Your Business Plan:

2. Craft Your Mission Statement and Branding:

3. Explore opportunities for grants
   
   Proper financial planning is crucial. You’ll want to explore how you will organize your finances, especially during tax season and learn about available childcare grants for providers.

4. Obtain the Necessary Licenses and Permits
   
   Maintain a close collaboration with licensing authorities as you work to fulfill any outstanding requirements for your childcare license. Ensure that you remain fully compliant with all regulations and make the necessary preparations for upcoming inspections.

5. Hire Staff
   
   If your plans include hiring additional staff members, Winnie provides valuable resources and toolkits to assist you in the process.

6. Establish Your Curriculum:
   
   Craft a curriculum that closely aligns with your mission and overarching goals for your childcare business. This curriculum should be designed to meet the developmental needs of the children you'll be responsible for caring for.

7. Market and Advertise Your Childcare Business:
   
   Effectively marketing and advertising your childcare program are vital for attracting families. Maximize the potential of your Winnie page, explore proven strategies for promoting your childcare business, and consider various advertising opportunities available on Winnie's platform.
   
   
8. Streamline the Enrollment Process:
   
   To provide a seamless and user-friendly admission process for daycare centers, it's important to optimize your enrollment procedures. Additionally, take advantage of the opportunity to promote your availability on Winnie, making it easier for families to discover and choose your childcare services.

Making the business successful (FAQ)

As you embark on your journey as a childcare provider in California, you may have various questions about making your childcare business successful. 

Here are some frequently asked questions along with answers and resources to help you navigate these important aspects of your business:

Here’s the thing, free programs can’t possibly meet the needs of every family in your community. Some people would rather pay extra for more convenient hours or smaller class sizes, so don’t get discouraged. Parents will take notice if you are confident about what you offer. 

In California, the educational requirements for opening a daycare can vary. To find out if you need a degree or specific qualifications to operate a daycare, refer to California's childcare licensing agency or regulations. They can provide you with the specific requirements for the state.

What certifications do I need to open a daycare in California?

California has its own certification and training requirements for childcare providers. To determine the necessary certifications for opening a daycare in California, consult California's childcare licensing agency or regulatory authority. They can provide you with a list of required certifications and training programs.

What should I do to make my daycare inclusive?

Creating an inclusive environment in your daycare is essential for providing equal opportunities to all children. Ensure that your childcare facility is a welcoming and nurturing space for every child in your care.