Home based and family preschools in the state of Maryland must register, and receive a certificate of registration before opening for business. Individuals interested in opening a home based preschool must apply with the state for an initial registration. Before applying for initial registration, the applicant must participate in a state mandated child care orientation, have state and federal background checks completed, and provide a medical assessment for every person living in the home. Additionally, other documents may need to be given to the state as part of the application process. These can include zoning documents, training certificates, or fire and health code compliance documents. Following initial registration, home based providers must apply for continuing registration to remain in compliance with state certificate requirements.
All individuals wishing to open a home-based preschool in Maryland must attend a family child care orientation. The orientation is broken down into two sessions; one session provides important information about the registration application process, the second instructs individuals who have already applied for registration on how to maintain all licensing regulations.
Maryland requires all home-based preschool providers to participate in at least 24 hours of child development training. This can include developmental theory, activity planning, health, safety training, nutrition and professional child care practice. All classes taken towards the 24 hour requirement must be at a school or training site that has been approved by the Maryland State Department of Education's office of Child Care. Any one of the 12 regional licensing offices can provide individuals with approved school and class lists.
All home-based preschool providers must complete CPR and First Aid Certification for children. The specific certification must follow the ages of the children attending the preschool. Regional licensing offices can provide applicants with a list of accepted CPR/First Aid training classes.
Prior to opening a home-based preschool, Maryland providers must pass two home inspections. The first inspection consists of a preregistration assessment. This assessment helps the provider determine if he or she has met all in-home regulations for health and safety. These may include the proper use of baby gates, electric outlet covers, hazardous material (e.g. cleaners or medications) storage, smoke detector use, and first aid kit maintenance. The second inspection must be done by the regional fire company. Additionally, some homes, depending on location, may need to be inspected by the health department.