Easy access to essential information for setting up your childcare business...
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Learn about the South Central Child Care Circle and our work to support childcare efforts in Cowley County and the surrounding areas
The first three steps toward launching your childcare business
✅ 1. “Becoming a Child Care Provider” Guide — Child Care Aware of Kansas
This downloadable guide clearly walks through the steps of becoming a licensed provider, including things to consider before starting, licensing basics, and where to get support. It’s produced by Child Care Aware of Kansas, which is part of the national Child Care Aware network and widely used by providers in the state.
🔗https://ks.childcareaware.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ProviderGuide_GettingStarted_2024update.pdf
🗣️Thinking about starting a child care business? This easy-to-follow guide from Child Care Aware of Kansas walks you through key steps from exploring whether it’s a good fit to preparing for licensing and building your business.
• Child Care in Kansas – Provider Resources: A one-stop portal of state-level resources to save you time and support business quality improvement. https://childcareinkansas.com/ece-resources
✅ 2. Kansas Child Care Provider Starter Kit — Kansas Business One Stop
This is a practical business resource from the official Kansas business portal with clear steps on registering a business, determining tax and licensing requirements, and starting a child care provider operation.
🔗https://ksbiz.kansas.gov/business-starter-kit/childcareprovider/
🗣️This is especially good to link when talking about the business side of opening care — the part that many providers find overwhelming but essential.
• Early Childhood Resource Connections: A national database of child care policy research and practice tools to inform local decision-making. https://earlyeducatorcentral.acf.hhs.gov/research-connections
✅ 3. “How to Open a Licensed Child Care Facility” — Kansas Department of Health and Environment
This page outlines the official state licensing steps, including orientation requirements, application, background checks, and training topics. It’s authoritative and required for anyone who plans to operate legally in Kansas.
🔗https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1808/How-to-Open-a-Licensed-Child-Care-Facili
🗣️This is useful when explaining the first official steps providers need to take.
Additional Resources for Starting & Strengthening Your Child Care Program
Opening or sustaining a child care program requires more than passion. It requires clear information, strong planning, and trusted support. Early Years Village connects providers to reliable Kansas and national resources so you can move forward with confidence.
Whether you are exploring a new home-based program, expanding a center, or strengthening your current operation, these resources can guide you.
Explore the Path to Becoming a Provider
Child Care Aware of Kansas – Provider Support Services
Offers peer networks, technical assistance, and professional development for both new and experienced providers. Their specialists can help you understand licensing requirements, quality standards, and available supports.
https://ks.childcareaware.org/helpful-resources-for-providers
Becoming a Child Care Provider Guide
A practical, step-by-step downloadable guide that walks through what to consider before opening, licensing basics, and how to prepare your business.
https://ks.childcareaware.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ProviderGuide_GettingStarted_2024update.pdf
Understand Kansas Licensing Requirements
Kansas Department of Health and Environment – How to Open a Licensed Child Care Facility
This is the official state process outlining required orientation, applications, background checks, training, and inspection steps. Anyone planning to operate legally in Kansas must complete this process.
https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1808/How-to-Open-a-Licensed-Child-Care-Facili
Build the Business Foundation
Strong child care programs are also small businesses. Understanding registration, taxes, and financial planning protects your sustainability.
Kansas Business One Stop – Child Care Provider Starter Kit
Clear guidance on registering your business, understanding tax responsibilities, and meeting regulatory requirements.
https://ksbiz.kansas.gov/business-starter-kit/childcareprovider/
Child Care in Kansas – Provider Resource Portal
A one-stop Kansas site compiling tools, compliance information, and quality improvement supports.
https://childcareinkansas.com/ece-resources
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