When I first started out I was fortunate to have my sisters help. She was an ECE who did home daycare for 10+ years. When I was on maternity leave with my first child, I considering doing home daycare. I took that year to job shadow my sister and help in her home daycare. This allowed me the opportunity to see if being a daycare provider was something that I wanted to do or could handle. She also taught me all the basics that’s that I needed to know for running a home daycare. I spent a lot of time beforehand preparing my handbook and contract. I researched many different sites online regarding daycare policies and procedures. I also ordered “Daycare Start-up” packages either online or through resource centers. I even took an online Early Childhood Education course (not accredited), and Family Child Care Training course just so that I could have some educational training.

My mother and I found many great toys and equipment at garage sales for very cheap. I also came across many great finds (such as boxes of children’s books and other toys) that people left on the curb. There are many teaching resources available online for free. You don’t need much else beside the basic toys (i.e. blocks, puzzles, dolls, lego, books), and equipment (playpens, high chairs, stroller), everything else can be provided by the daycare parents. You will quickly build your resources over the years as you buy specific items for your own children.