You may be required by the state to move certain plants that can be poisonous if eaten, and we all know how young kids are notorious for sticking anything and everything in their mouths. If you have considered all these things and feel this is the perfect job for you and your family, then you are ready to move forward to the next step. Your first step is to call Human Services and apply for license. You will want to know how many children you can accommodate, and what kind of training is required. Someone will be sent out to your home to do an inspection, and you will have a certain amount of time to comply.
Most states have similar requirements.
You will be required to have CPR and first-aid training. You should also have a file for each child on whom to contact during an emergency, authorization to provide emergency medical care, and a disaster plan in case of fires, flash floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, etc. Keep in mind you will be checked out by the FBI for any criminal records and fingerprinted. Parents want to know their children are in a safe environment, and I am sure we can all understand this concern and the importance of setting their minds at ease. Be sure to set clear policies before ever taking in a new child.