Start a Child Care Business
Starting a child care business is both a meaningful career path and a smart business opportunity. Early childhood professionals play a critical role in shaping young children's growth, learning, and long-term success.
Programs can operate in a home or in a community setting such as a center, church, or school. Many child care business owners have the added benefit of caring for and educating their own children within their program.
Quality child care strengthens families, supports the local workforce, and fuels a thriving community. Guidance and support are available every step of the way to help turn this vision into reality.
License-exempt Homes
A license-exempt home child care business is typically operated by one individual who provides care for a small group of children in either their home or the home of a child(ren).
Become a License-exempt Home Provider
Licensed Home
A licensed home child care provider delivers care within the provider's own residence and meets all standards established by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
Become a Licensed Home Provider
License-exempt Centers
A license-exempt child care center is a facility that is not required to be licensed by the state, often due to its type of affiliation, such as those run by public schools, certain religious organizations, or military agencies.
Become a License-exempt Center Provider
Licensed Centers
A licensed child care center offers care to children within a group/classroom setting and has met the standards set by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
Become a Licensed Center ProviderSign up for a one-on-one consultation or training for becoming a licensed child care provider.
Contact Dawn Wiles, Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, at dwiles@salccc.org
Click below for a step-by-step guide
