Q: I want to provide child care in my home. What do I need to know?

A: If you plan to care for more than two non-resident children in your home, you will need to become registered or licensed. Registered family child care providers can care for seven to eight children, depending on the ages of the children, including their own. Licensed group family child care providers work with an assistant and can care for twelve to fourteen children.

Q: How do I become registered or licensed?

A: Contact us at (607) 753-0106 or stop by our office at 111 Port Watson St. We will have an application packet and the appropriate child care regulations sent to you. The Child Care Council offers free technical assistance if you have questions or need assistance filling out your application.

Q: Is there any funding available to help me get started?

A: The Child Care Council offers a Health and Safety Start-Up grant which provides safety equipment, educational materials and other items your home might need in order to comply with the New York State regulations. Scholarships are available to help pay for the cost of required child care training. Also, registered or licensed providers may participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, which provides partial reimbursement for nutritious meals fed to children enrolled in your program.