Obtaining a Self-Declared Document
A Self-Declaration Document authorizes a child care provider to care for up to 5 children, under the age of 12. Not more than three children may be under the age of 24 months. A provider's own children, who are 12 years or younger, must be included in the total.
Learn more about North Dakota child care licensing
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Step One: County Social Services Office
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They will provide you with a rule book for Self-Declaration Providers and answer your questions. Here are some questions you may want to ask::
- Does my community have additional ordinances that regulate child care?
- Where do I go to get fingerprinted? Is there a charge?
- Do other people living in my home need to get fingerprinted as well?
- Do I need a fire inspection?
- What training do I need to complete?
- Where can I get CPR and first-aid training?
- Are there any requirements if I have pets?
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Step Two: Prepare Documents
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Other household members, child care helpers or volunteers may need background checks. Contact your county child care licenser to verify requirements.
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Step Three: Complete Required Trainings
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Contact your county social service office before you take the course.
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Step Four: Prepare for Approval
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Prepare Individual Files
Each child must have an individual file that includes the following: -
> Official documentation verifying the identifcation of the child
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> Set Up Child Care Environment
Providing adequate supply of safe materials and toys for indoor/outdoor play.
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> Smoke Detectors
One working detector in each sleeping area and one on each level.
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> Drinking Water from an Approved Source
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> Ensure That Children Do Not Have Access to Health and Safety Hazards
This includes
- Using a gate to secure stairs
- Covering outlet plugs
- Storing cleaning supplies, medications, and other chemicals in a locked cabinet or other means to make them inaccessible to children
- Locking guns and ammunition separately -
> Signage Posted to Assure a Smoke-Free Environment
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Step Five: Schedule a Pre-Approval Visit
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Contact your county social service office to schedule a pre-approval visit after you have completed all items in steps one through four. Your will need to have the following documents completed and available for the pre-approval visit.
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Schedule an inspection after you have completed all items in steps one through three.
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> Documentation of Pet Immunizations (if applicable)
Have Questions?
Contact a Child Care Aware® Start-Up Consultant
StartChildCare@ndchildcare.org | 800-997-8515
Learn More About It
Visit the Run Your Child Care section to learn more about operating a child care business.
