Consider aesthetics and durability as you plan the daycare center. Many daycare centers have replaced bright, primary colors, wall murals and plastic bins with muted natural colors, plants and baskets to create a homelike environment. Install sturdy cabinets for storage space. Install a combination of durable carpets for group time activities and floor play, and laminate or vinyl flooring for arts and crafts areas.
Address any safety and licensing requirements. Install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and outlet plugs, and make sure exits are adequate. Store all sharp objects, including staplers, teachers' scissors and knives out of children's reach, as well as paint, glue and cleaning products.
Set up an office for the director at the front of the building. The office is the first impression parents usually get of a school. Keep it clean, organized and light, and include a bookshelf with books for parents and children. Hang framed art work from the children in the school or black and white photos of the children at play on the walls. Display information on the philosophy of the daycare center on a bulletin board.
Set up cubbies or some other place for the children to put personal items in each classroom. You'll need a corner for parent communication, as well. Place a table or bookcase in the corner for a sign-in log, newsletters and correspondence. Install a bulletin board over the table to post information to parents.
Define areas of the classrooms for different activities. For example, you'll need large areas with soft flooring for story time, block play or group activities. Place bins or bookcases with books in these areas, along with pillows or bean bag chairs. Organize art areas with bins full of art supplies, easels and paint smocks. Don't forget a place to dry art work. Set up areas for table activities with child-size tables and chairs. Add bins with writing materials, science activities or math games.
Consider how you'll handle nap times. Most schools use cots or mats that are stored in a closet or corner of the room when not in use. Decide on a place to store the mats, as well as a routine for disinfecting the mats and washing linens.
Set up an office area for teachers. This is one of the most important, yet overlooked areas of most daycare centers. Teachers need an area to keep curriculum and planning materials, as well as time during the day to plan. The office should include a desk, cabinets, computer and filing cabinet.