Starting a career as a nanny or family care provider
In today’s economy, two incomes are often necessary to provide the lifestyle most families want. This has led to an increase in the demand for personal, affordable child care, such as that offered by a home daycare provider or nanny.
If you’ve been thinking of a career in the child care field, now is the perfect time to get started. Child care training is available from a variety of sources, including community colleges, universities, continuing education programs and online providers. The requirements for child care certification vary from state to state, but with the wide range of educational options, you’re sure to find a program that provides the training you need and fits your lifestyle.
Setting Up a Child Care Business
Once you have the requisite training, you can begin to offer your services as a child care provider. There are two main options for independent child care work:
- Nanny – A nanny works for a single family and takes care of the child or children in the family’s home. Nannying tends to be less structured than daycare, but the duties tend to be more varied. Nannies may be expected to take children to activities, sports or events, as well as prepare meals for them and maybe even perform some household duties like sweeping, general tidying and laundry.
- Family Care Provider – A family care provider offers child care to several families from his or her own home. Generally, the number of children cared for is kept low to allow for greater interaction between the provider and each child, as well as more focused, personalized care. This tends to be the most affordable option for many families and provides a nice balance between the individual care of a nanny and the cost-effective care of a large daycare center.
If you choose to run a home-based daycare, you will likely have to comply with several health and safety regulations, and you will probably incur startup costs to secure the appropriate toys and furniture, as well as ongoing overhead for food and care items. However, these items can generally be claimed against income on your tax return.
As a nanny, you are not generally responsible for supplying the food, toys or other items required for the child’s care. However, this means that all income you make is taxable.
Either way, a career in independent child care can be profitable and will provide you with the flexibility to be your own boss and choose your own clients.
