Everything You Need to Know About Starting and Running a Daycare in Maryland (2025 Edition)
Everything You Need to Know About Starting and Running a Daycare in Maryland (2025 Edition)
Starting a daycare in Maryland is a rewarding way to support families while building a successful business. With its strong demand for childcare services, Maryland provides a great environment for daycare operators. This guide outlines the steps and regulations to help you open and operate a daycare in Maryland in 2025.
Why Start a Daycare in Maryland?
Maryland has a high demand for childcare, driven by its family-focused communities and workforce needs. Whether you’re starting a small family daycare or a large childcare center, Maryland offers an ideal setting to provide essential services while building a thriving business.
Licensing Requirements for Daycare Centers in Maryland
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) oversees daycare licensing through the Office of Child Care. Below is a step-by-step outline of the licensing process:
- Determine Your Daycare Type:
- Family Child Care Home: Up to 8 children in a home-based setting.
- Large Family Child Care Home: 9-12 children in a home setting with additional staffing requirements.
- Child Care Center: Facility-based care for 13 or more children.
- Complete Required Training:
- Training includes health and safety standards, child development, CPR, and first aid certification.
- Submit a Licensing Application:
- Applications must include proof of training, background checks, and a detailed floor plan for your facility.
- Pass Required Inspections:
- Your daycare must pass health, safety, and fire inspections before receiving a license.
Regulations for Daycare Operations in Maryland
Daycare providers in Maryland must follow strict regulations to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for children. These include:
- Staff-to-Child Ratios:
- Infants (0-18 months): 1 caregiver per 3 children
- Toddlers (18-24 months): 1 caregiver per 6 children
- Preschoolers (2-5 years): 1 caregiver per 10 children
- School-age (5+ years): 1 caregiver per 15 children
- Health and Safety Standards:
- Maintain clean, safe facilities with regular sanitation practices.
- Ensure all toys, equipment, and materials are age-appropriate and hazard-free.
- Emergency Preparedness:
- Create and maintain an emergency plan for fires, natural disasters, and medical emergencies.
- Conduct regular safety drills with children and staff.
FAQs About Starting a Daycare in Maryland
- Can I open a daycare in my home in Maryland?
- Yes, home-based daycares are permitted under the Family Child Care Home or Large Family Child Care Home designation, provided they meet state regulations and pass inspections.
- What are the startup costs for a daycare in Maryland?
- Startup costs vary depending on location and facility size but typically include licensing fees, training, insurance, and equipment.
- Do I need a degree to operate a daycare in Maryland?
- No degree is required, but you must complete pre-licensing training and certifications, including CPR and first aid.
Resources for Daycare Providers in Maryland
- Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE): Licensing and resources for childcare providers.
- Childcare Aware of America: National resources for daycare operators.
- IRS EIN Application: Apply for an EIN for tax purposes.
Final Thoughts
Starting a daycare in Maryland is a fulfilling opportunity to serve families while building a successful business. By adhering to state regulations and maintaining high standards, you can create a thriving childcare center in 2025 and beyond. Explore our other state-specific guides for more insights and resources!
My name is Nick Caucci and I help run the Rentroom blog. Over the years, I have seen and helped many different property managers and owner-operators streamline their daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly workflows.
