The process includes a background check, a safety inspection of your home, and some training. Initial training must be completed within one year of becoming a licensed child care provider. You may also choose to work in a child care center. Centers employ different types of child care workers. Depending on your experience and education, you may qualify to be a teacher, assistant teacher, aide or cook.
Many centers offer child care for their employees at a reduced rate.
Some offer other benefits including health and dental insurance and paid vacations. Many child care arrangements are informal. You may be caring for the children of a friend, relative or neighbor. You may be providing care for free or you may be paid. Training grants and other incentives are occasionally available to legal unlicensed child care providers.