careers
 






 

Question by  Nickie (24)

Is it legal to watch one child in my home?

I don't want to go to the hassle of getting set up through a government agency for one child.

 
+7

Answer by  tml (538)

It depends on the jurisdiction you are in. Some cities are not passing laws that make it illegal to take care of children without having a daycare license registered and on hand. Other cities treat the issue as basic babysitting. Your best bet is to take a look at your local rules to be sure.

 
+6

Answer by  technogeek (6640)

It is legal to watch a child in your home without government intervention. Legally, you can watch several children without a license, depending on which state you live in, as long as they are from the same family.

 
+5

Answer by  Mary (2095)

Most states do not require you to get a license when you are watching children from one family, other than your own. This is because of the extreme burden it would place on babysitting. Some states however do require every babysitter to have a license. You would need to contact one of those government agencies.

 
+4

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

In most states, it is legal to watch one child in addition to your own children. More than that or allowing drop in child care may require a child care license.

 
+4

Answer by  Vllad45 (1886)

If you do this informally, then you'll be fine, but you cannot call yourself a daycare or take in more than two children.

 
+3

Answer by  guyver3869 (449)

This is regulated by state. In most states if you are watching 1 child it is considered babysitting. Any more than 2 and you need to be licensed.

 
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