How to Become a Certified Child Care Provider in Texas

<h2 id="section---CareerInformationAtAGlance">Career Information at a Glance</h2> <p>Child care providers in Texas must be licensed, rather than certified, through Texas Health and Human Services. This requirement is designed to protect children in the state and ensure the right level of care is being provided. Find out more about becoming a licensed child care provider in the table below. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Licensure</b> </td><td> Child Care License is required</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Skills Required</b> </td><td> Communication and decision-making skills, patience, stamina</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Job Growth (2020-2030)</b> </td><td> 8% (for all child care workers)*</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Average Salary (2020) </b></td><td> $26,790 (for Texas child care workers)*</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i> </p> <h3 id="section---HowCanIBecomeCertifiedAsAChildCareProviderInTexas">How Can I Become Certified as a Child Care Provider in Texas?</h3> <p>To become a fully licensed child care provider in Texas, you must apply for a license online and complete a pre-application interview. Thorough background checks are also taken on all child care providers (14 years and above) where care will be provided. Those who wish to become licensed should submit their application online or via mail to a local child care licensing office and wait for the preapplication interview. If you are hoping to provide child care from your home, an inspection of your property will take place before you receive a license. </p> <h3 id="section---WhyDoINeedToBeLicensed">Why Do I Need to Be Licensed?</h3> <p>The state government requires licensure to ensure that the health and safety of all children within the state are protected. The state provides vital information needed to properly care for children through its preapplication interview and makes sure that child care providers are up-to-date with the latest safety and training through mandatory professional development of 15 hours per year. Licensure also ensures that the state can provide support to providers when necessary. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatIsAPreapplicationInterview">What Is a Preapplication Interview?</h3> <p>A preapplication interview is a chance to learn about the application and licensing process. A state inspector will help you determine the administrative requirements for your child care setting, such as the responsibilities of staff and what the background check entail. During the interview you will receive an information packet that provides important details, such as who the child care licensing staff are in your area. These interviews can take place at your home, office, a Health and Human Services office or via phone. </p> <h3 id="section---WhereCanIWork">Where Can I Work?</h3> <p>Licensed child care in Texas can be provided in a center or in the home. During the application process, you will be able to specify the type of license you require depending on the type of care you will provide. Once your home is licensed, you can provide care for 7-12 children aged 13 or younger. This number includes your own children, if applicable. To meet the minimum requirements, you should provide care for a minimum of two hours a day for at least three days a week. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatSkillsDoINeed">What Skills Do I Need?</h3> <p>Child care requires strong communication skills to interact with children of varying ages and their parents. Being able to respond to emergency situations with good decision making is also an important part of the role. You should expect to find some aspects of child care physically demanding. Having a lot of physical stamina is essential.</p>