The rise in the number of home daycare services has increased as more families must have two or more incomes in order to survive. However, it is not an easy business to own and operate.

There are countless numbers of child care services shutting down within the first year because of healthcare code or safety violations. Even if you are completely up to state code, there are competitors looking for an advantage. But by doing your homework and knowing the facts, you can succeed.

The first thing to consider before opening up your home daycare facility is whether or not you have enough space to accommodate a set number of kids, both for indoor and outdoor activities. Also, what ages do you intend to provide care for? This requires a careful review of your start-up costs.

More children attending your daycare means higher initial costs, as well as unforeseen expenditures such as a business license, insurance and the assorted toys or learning material that you will need to provide. All daycare facilities must have safety equipment installed, so this expense must be factored in as well.

The second thing you should consider is whether or not you will have anyone working for you. Most states set a limit on how many infants or children can be cared for by one person. While you are researching this, it is a perfect opportunity to think about what you would do to provide relief for yourself.

What happens if you are sick? Who will watch the children that day? Being reliable is the key to keeping parents happy. You may have to consider hiring at least one person to help you in case of an emergency.

Third, but definitely not last, is the type of child care services you intend to offer. Most parents do not want their children eating sugary snacks or being parked in front of a television all day.

If you provide nutritious meals and snacks, outdoor activities and an educational curriculum in which the children can learn and grow, you will draw in more parents. It is not always about being the lowest priced care facility in the area. It is about education, protection and keeping the child's best interests in mind.

A home daycare service is a business, and as such, you have to look at every conceivable angle. You want it to thrive and grow. Sometimes it is easier to start smaller and work up from there.

By providing top quality child care services, you can have an establishment to be proud of and gain new referrals. As word gets out among the parenting community, you can expect positive results from your professional, personal care approach.