Here we hope to answer some of the more frequently asked questions about becoming a home child care provider.  If you would like to learn more about becoming a home child care provider with Action for Children, visit our Becoming a Provider section.

Frequently Asked Questions
Are there certain educational requirements for providing child care in my home?

There are no educational requirements to provide child care in a small (under six children) family child care home in Ohio.   more ...


Do I need to live in a house before I can do child care?

A house is not necessary.  You can provide child care in an apartment or townhouse as long as there are two clear means of escape in case of an emergency.  more ...


How do I become licensed to do child care in my home?

There are no licensing requirements for small child care homes in Ohio.  more ...


How do I get on the program that provides food to feed the children in care?

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) requires that a home meet certain requirements for health and safety to be eligible.  more ...


How much will it cost to set up my child care business?

Much will depend on whether your home is already set up for children.  Is it child proofed?   more ...


I am not comfortable giving anyone my Social Security Number. Do I need to do that?

It is preferable to give your clients a Tax ID Number (TIN), to use for their tax records instead of your Social Security Number.  more ...


I have never used a contract with the families that I care for. Why would I want to have a contract?

One of the most common problems among family child care providers is misunderstandings with parents.  more ...


Is it true that the more adults I have helping me, the more children I can have?

No, this is not true. The ratio of six children to one adult for small child care homes is State law.  more ...