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Guide: the steps to open your home daycare
The whole path, from idea to first family, in six steps.
Guide · September 15, 2026
Every state has its own process; in New York it is run by the state children and family services agency. This guide sums up the common steps.
- Attend the licensing agency orientation
- Complete the required training hours
- Prepare your home with the safety checklist
- Submit the application and background checks
- Get inspected
- Open your doors and keep records from day one
Want help along the way? Our opening and licensing consulting guides you through each step.