Your Home, Their First Classroom: Become a Family Child Care Provider in Alabama! - post

​Your Home, Their First Classroom: Become a Family Child Care Provider in Alabama!

Becoming a licensed family child care provider in Alabama is a rewarding journey that allows you to #nurture young minds while operating your own business from #home. To ensure the #safety and well-being of children, Alabama has specific regulations and requirements for family child care providers. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps and highlight how ChildCareEd can support you with essential training courses.​

Step 1: Understand Alabama's Licensing Requirements

In Alabama, a license is required if you:​Alabama Department of Human Resources+8Licensing Regulations+8Alabama Childcare Facts+8

• Provide care for one or more children not related to you.

• Offer care away from the child's home.

• Provide care for more than four hours in a 24-hour period.​Justia Law+11Licensing Regulations+11Public Health Law Center+11

These requirements are outlined in the Child Care Licensing and Performance Standards.​Licensing Regulations+1Licensing Regulations+1

Step 2: Meet the Basic Eligibility Criteria

To become a licensed provider, you must:

• Be at least 19 years old.

• Have a high school diploma or GED.

• Submit a medical report confirming your #health status.

• Pass criminal #background-checks and clearance from the State Central Registry on Child Abuse/Neglect.

• Obtain zoning approval for your home to operate as a child care facility.

• Secure fire and health department inspections with no violations.​

Detailed information can be found in the Alabama Administrative Code, Chapter 660-5-27.​Public Health Law Center+2Public Health Law Center+2Alabama Administrative Code+2

Step 3: Complete Required Training

Alabama mandates that family child care providers complete specific training to ensure quality care:​

• Initial Training: At least 24 hours of training in child care and #development.

• Ongoing Training: A minimum of 12 clock hours of training annually.​

ChildCareEd offers a variety of courses to meet these requirements, including:​

• Basic Health and Safety Training

• Early Childhood Education

• CPR & First Aid Training

• CDA Family ChildCare ​

These courses are designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing you to complete them at your own pace.​

Step 4: Prepare Your Home Environment

Your home must meet specific safety and space requirements:​brightwheel+1Childcare Design+1

• Provide at least 32 square feet of indoor space per child.

• Ensure #outdoor #play-areas are enclosed with a 4-foot-high fence.

• Maintain a clean and #safe-environment, #free from hazards.

• Have age-appropriate furniture and equipment.​Childcare Design+1Alabama Department of Human Resources+1brightwheelAlabama Department of Human Resources+1Childcare Design+1

These standards are detailed in the Child Care Licensing and Performance Standards.​Alabama Department of Human Resources+3Licensing Regulations+3Licensing Regulations+3

Step 5: Submit Your Application

To apply for a license, contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR):​Alabama Department of Human Resources+3brightwheel+3ChildCareOwner.com+3

• Phone: (866) 528-1694

• Email: [email protected]​Alabama Department of Human Resources+2brightwheel+2Alabama Department of Human Resources+2Alabama Department of Human Resources

DHR will provide you with the necessary application forms and guide you through the process.​

Step 6: Undergo Inspections and Final Approval

After submitting your application, DHR will conduct inspections to ensure compliance with all regulations. Once approved, you'll receive your license to operate as a family child care provider in Alabama.​Alabama Childcare Facts

Continuing Education and Support

Maintaining your license requires ongoing education. ChildCareEd offers a range of courses to help you stay current with best practices and regulatory requirements. Explore our full course catalog to find training that fits your needs and schedule.​Alabama Department of Human Resources

Embarking on the journey to become a family child care provider in Alabama is a significant step toward making a positive impact in your community. With the right preparation and support from ChildCareEd, you can provide a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for the children in your care.