Non-licensed Childcare

I often receive questions from parents in regards to using licensed VS non-licensed childcare providers.  As both have their pros and cons, I would not completely lean towards one side.  I will however state that licensed childcare providers must adhere to regular inspections, training, specified standards, and background checks.  This is generally why licensed providers are more expensive.  Licensed childcare centers have even more regulations to follow and are thus usually more expensive than in-home licensed providers, who are usually more expensive than unlicensed providers.

Let’s explore this topic a little more.  It is extremely rare to find an unlicensed childcare center.  It would be almost impossible to remain undetected being as though the center would be large and unable to move.  Thus, easily discovered and shut down.  Non-licensed childcare providers are different.  Since, they are small and mobile, it is more difficult to discover and enforce regulations upon them.  Non-licensed childcare providers come in many forms.  The neighbor down the street, the high school baby sitter earning some extra cash, nanny share or person who rotates homes watching several unrelated children at once and receiving payment, etc.  In my experience as an educator, I have heard both good and bad stories regarding non-licensed childcare providers.  So I will just say be extremely careful in your search for childcare.  Do not ignore any warning signs, and take a very hands-on approach. I do not care how many “assistance” the provider has, it is important for you to know the child adult ratio.  You need to know who interacts with your child and in what manor? Who takes them to the bathroom?  Are the children ever left alone with the assistants?  How does the main provider know the assistants? Are they related to the provider or did they answer a help wanted ad?  If something were to go wrong, who would be held responsible?

This Topic is considered taboo because in general, practicing childcare without a license is illegal (there are some exceptions).  However, the truth is that people use unregistered, unlicensed, illegal childcare everyday.  It is truly a booming business.  If you do choose to use a non-licensed provider, it is important to do your due diligence when it comes to research to insure that you are making the proper choice for your child.  Always remember safety first when it comes to choosing a childcare provider.    

*Note* Nannies and the baby sitter you call to watch your child when you go out, are not considered illegal providers.     
   

 

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