Have you had to enroll for any professional course for starting a day care? What are the basic qualifications one needs to start a day care?

No, one does not need any professional training for starting a day care. Immense patience, along with a lot of affection for children, is the only qualification required to work with kids.

What has your experience of running a day care been? What according to you would be the different aspects one needs to look into, if planning to enter the field?

The first thing needed is a good property in a convenient location. A place close to any residential area is ideal for starting a preschool/daycare. The ideal situation is, if you have a property of your own, because if you have to rent out a place, then the rent expenses eat up a substantial portion of the profit.

One can consider being associated with a good brand of preschool through a franchise option. The risks of a first timer can be considerably mitigated through this, as it is a tried and tested option.

Are there any regulatory requirements?

Barring basic registration, under Shops and Establishment Act, the Labor Laws, viz. Professional Tax, Provident Fund, etc have to be complied with.

How does an average working day of yours look like, and has life for you changed in anyway after starting of this venture?

Yes, my life has definitely changed after starting my own venture. The overall work-life balance has improved, and it makes a lot of difference, being the mother of a five-year old. I can now take several breaks, to take care of my family, even though I have to continuously be in touch with my team, and be available at any point of time, for any emergencies.

A typical day starts at 9 am at the school. The preschool goes on till 12.30 pm, followed by the daycare which is open till 7 pm. I usually take a break for a few hours in the afternoon and am back again in the evening. My day usually ends around 7.30 pm to 8 pm after seeing off all the little ones at the daycare, and each of my staff members.

What will be the general financial requirements for starting a venture of this kind?

The initial capital required will be in the range of Rs 10 to 12 lakhs. The main areas of capital requirement would be rental deposit (10 months of rent in a big city like Bangalore), furniture, indoor and outdoor painting, toys, fabrication work, and other areas to get the day care ready in all respects to welcome the children.

What advice would you give someone who is planning to make an entry into the field?

A thorough research of the area, where you plan to open your school, would help a lot in identifying the business potential prior to opening the school.

Where do you see yourself five years from now? What other future plans for your venture do you have in mind? 

I see this as a beginning. Ever since I have started this venture, each day has been a learning experience. I love kids and so definitely something related to children is on the cards.

Mouchhanda, the team here at IndusLadies wishes you all the best in all your endeavours.