Become a Provider

Become a Family Child Care Provider

More than 60% of children of all ages need some form of child care – from infant care to after-school programs.  As a Family Child Care provider, you’re free to set your own hours and design your own caring activities.

The Process for Starting your own Child Care Business:

  • Evaluate your potential – what are the possibilities of the space you want to use, what type of program do you want to have, what ages, meals and activities? Take this short questionnaire; Is Child Care a Good Fit for Me?
  • Discuss the idea with your family members and other important individuals -Your family needs to understand what is involved, how it will affect their lives, and how your home will be impacted.  If you rent your home, discuss the idea with your landlord.  Possible neighborhood concerns should be addressed.
  • Visit another family child care program  -You will get ideas for setting up your home, planning your program, deciding about policies, hours, etc.
  • Visit the State Child Care Licensing Site for an application packet  or contact a Child Care Licensing Specialist in the Southeast Office -Ask for a copy of the regulations so you can prepare to become a licensed provider and start on your policies and paperwork.
  • Put together a business timeline and budget so you know how long it will take you to become regulated and how much it will cost.  Click here for a Budget Worksheet.
  • Other things to consider
    • State of Alaska Business License
    • CPR/First Aid Training
    • Fire Marshall Inspection
    • Emergency Preparedness kit
    • Home Safety Equipment (fire extinguisher, CO2 detectors, hot water adjustments, safety gates, outlet plugs, etc.)
    • Play equipment, sleeping cots, chairs and tables
    • Complete Background Check Unit Application, payment and fingerprinting for anyone over 16 residing in your household.

Is becoming licensed difficult?

The licensing procedure is more straight forward than you might expect.  Basically, it means ensuring that your home offers a safe, healthy, and engaging environment for young children.  And that’s just common sense.

Are you ready to Open Your Heart & Your Home?

To become a Licensed Provider contact State of Alaska Child Care Licensing: 907-465-4756.