starting a child day care center (home, moving to, license)

[Jackie21]

Hello
we are thinking of moving to the tampa bay area to start a child day care center. Does anyone have any idea whether there is a need. Are there areas that are booming with young families?
Thank you

[stpeteguy]

Regulation nightmares, that's what i've been told by people who've tried it.

As with anything that involves kids, the government will inspect, regulate, fine, charge, tax, etc. too the point it's very tough to make any money at it.

[Jackie21]

thanks. I know its a tough business. I have two young kids and don't want to go back to corporate america!!!
thank you any way for your insight.

[Keeper]

My niece owns a daycare with several employees. I can tell you she and her hubby spend hours keeping it up to reg. It is hard to keep employees even though she pays better than min wage. It isn't an 8-5 job. You have to be open from 7 to at least 6 every work day. This also means if someone is late picking up a child, means you probably won't get home until 7...

IMHO.. you might do better getting a license for your home. The biggest need is for infants. Most daycares have an age limit which does not include newborns. I knew someone who kept 3 infants and was making very good money taking care of them until they reached daycare age.

[Jackie21]

thanks for your insight.