How to Open a Daycare in Maryland

Opening a daycare in Maryland requires understanding and complying with state regulations aimed at safeguarding the well-being and safety of children. At Winnie, our deep experience in the daycare and preschool industry makes us a reliable resource to guide you through this process. Whether you're considering starting a home-based daycare or a center-based facility, becoming familiar with the licensing requirements is the essential first step to launching a successful childcare business in Maryland.

Is a Childcare License Required in Maryland?

In Maryland, whether you need a childcare license depends on the type of care you plan to provide. Generally, if you intend to care for unrelated children in your home or a separate facility, obtaining a license is necessary. Maryland recognizes two primary types of childcare businesses: family childcare homes and childcare centers. If you're only offering babysitting services and caring for children from one family at a time, a license isn't usually required. However, once you start caring for children from multiple families, a license becomes mandatory.

Types of Childcare Businesses in Maryland

In Maryland, there are three types of childcare licenses available:

• Family Child Care Home: Allows care for up to eight children in a residential setting.
• Large Family Child Care Home: Permits care for up to 12 children in a residential home.
• Child Care Center: Authorizes childcare in a facility outside of a home, specifically zoned for use as a childcare center.

Childcare Licensing Requirements in Maryland

To start a daycare in Maryland, you need to meet specific licensing requirements

Family Child Care Home Licensing

Provider Requirements:

• Must be 18+ years old
• Hold a CDA credential, associate's, or bachelor's degree in early childhood education
• Complete basic first aid and CPR training via the American Heart Association
• Have SIDS training if caring for children under 24 months
• Complete 24 hours of approved training, including core competencies, within two years before registration
• Finish emergency planning, breastfeeding support, medication administration, and ADA compliance training

Substitute Requirements:

• Must be 18+ years old
• Appointed by the provider and approved by the department
• Undergo federal and state criminal background checks
• Present no risk to children's safety

Additional Adult Requirements:

• Must be 18+ years old
• Attend an info session for caring for children under two
• Complete first aid, CPR, and SIDS training
• Pass a background check

Volunteer Requirements:

• Must present no risk to children’s safety
• Undergo health and safety orientation
• Pass federal and state background checks
• Must be 18+ years old to care for children under two

Capacity Requirements:

• Care capacity cannot exceed the number on the registration certificate
• A family childcare home can care for up to eight children, with no more than four under two years old
• For more than two children under two, an additional adult must be present

Large Family Child Care Home Licensing

Director Requirements:

• Must be 21+ years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Complete 9 hours of communication training and 3 hours in administrative procedures
• Hold a national child development credential or complete 90 hours of child development training

Teacher Requirements:

• Must be 19+ years old
• Complete approved training in child development, curriculum, and ADA compliance
• Have one year of supervised experience with children in a licensed setting
• Approved by the Department for Early Childhood for nursery to third grade
• Finish basic health and safety training
• Complete breastfeeding support training if caring for children under two

Aide Requirements:

• Must be 16+ years old
• Complete 90 hours or equivalent pre-service early childhood education training

Substitutes:

• Must be 18+ years old
• Maintain staff-to-child ratios in the absence of regular staff
• Submit necessary forms to the department and undergo background checks
• Present no risk to children’s safety

Support Personnel:

• Handle duties not involving direct child supervision (e.g., food prep, housekeeping)

Volunteers:

• Must pass a criminal background check or review of abuse/neglect records
• Work under close supervision of the provider or staff

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Childcare Provider in Maryland

After submitting your application to the Maryland State Department of Education’s Office of Child Care, you'll need to follow several steps:

1. Develop a Business Plan: A well-structured business plan will help you set clear goals and organize your daycare effectively.
2. Mission Statement and Branding: Craft a mission statement that reflects your daycare’s values and objectives, and create a strong brand identity.
3. Research Grants and Funding: Look into available grants and funding options to assist with startup costs.
4. Choose a Location and Furnish It: Ensure that your chosen location meets state requirements and is appropriately furnished and equipped.
5. Obtain License and Permit: Complete the necessary applications, pass all required inspections, and secure your license.
6. Hire Qualified Staff: Make sure that all staff members meet Maryland’s childcare regulations.
7. Establish a Curriculum: Select or develop a curriculum that aligns with Maryland’s early childhood education standards.
8. Market and Advertise Your Daycare: Promote your daycare through various channels to attract clients.
9. Manage Enrollment: Streamline the admission process to handle enrollments efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• My State Offers Free Preschool; How Can I Stay Competitive? Offering unique services and flexible hours can help your daycare remain competitive even when free preschool programs are available.
• Do I Need a Degree to Open a Daycare in Maryland? While a degree isn't strictly required to open a daycare, having relevant education or experience can be beneficial, particularly for center-based providers.
• What Certifications Are Needed to Open a Daycare in Maryland? Certifications such as CPR, first aid, and safe sleep practices are mandatory. Additionally, directors of center-based daycares may need to meet specific educational qualifications.
• How Can I Make My Daycare Inclusive? Creating an inclusive environment involves accommodating children of all abilities and backgrounds, offering diverse learning materials, and training staff on inclusivity best practices.