I think it’s awesome to have some kind of “family picnic” every couple of months. This way the kids families can get to know each other better and you too.

Wow, that’s wonderful!!!

First off, the items that you have listed so far are perfect!

Your house sounds lovely.

I would look to sort of have a one on one chat with you, just to see what you were like as a person…you know? Loving, kind, etc. Those are qualities I would love to see.

I would also like to see some outdoor activities that allow the kiddies to get exercise and fresh air. In the warm weather, maybe you could set up a game outside and take the babies out in their strollers or what-have-you.

Maybe you should print out calenders or something with the hours you are open & days, holidays, etc.

Good luck!!!

Sounds like you know what your doing but here are a few tips incase you forgot these things:

First, you need to check with your state laws to see what kind of training/certificate you need.
Second, be sure you have had First Aid/ CPR training
Third, be sure to have all safety supplies needed
i.e. outlet covers, door and cabinet locks, etc
Safety should always be considered first and foremost!!
Fourth, you need to decide whether or not you will provide cots/mats for naps
Fifth, be sure to have set rules about drop-off and pick-up times, illnesses, etc. Be sure to have these things in writing and have the parents sign and keep copy for themselves
Sixth, be sure to have lots of patience, compassion, enthusiasm, and always wear a big smile!
Most important, have fun!!!!
Good Luck!

Be sure to get licensed.

Here is some info for parenting choosing child care

Taking your children to a mother who does babysitting out of her home is another alternative. It can be a licensed in-home daycare, or unlicensed one. The difference being that an unlicensed childcare provider is only allowed to have five children in her home including her own. A licensed provider would have to have someone come to their home and inspect it for the safety and well being of the children who would stay there. If you know someone who does babysitting in their home, but is unlicensed, chances are you would not be too concerned about leaving your child in that situation. If you are looking for in-home childcare, and it would be with someone you did not know, chances are you will want to go with a licensed provider because of the fact that someone did inspect the premises before they were licensed. A licensed provider may charge you more money then someone who is unlicensed. A big part of choosing the right in-home childcare is by word of mouth. If you ask around, you will find out about the various pl you can take your child/children and what each place offers. You may learn that one person spends a lot of time reading, teaching, and playing with the kids. While another has so many she can’t keep track. Some provide lunch and snacks, while at others you have to take your own.
More here

There are different levels of daycare. You should research which one would best fit your lifestyle. I found that the best attributes of a daycare is meals provided through a subsidized grant ( food program ), I like not having to pack a lunch in the morning. Staff coverage, there is nothing worse than getting a phone call in the morning telling you that you have to go somewhere else because the provider is sick or have some other family issue. Children of various age ranges require different activities and care. Don’t spread yourself to thin. I look for day cares that have children in the similar age range as mine. Get certified, you will receive/charge more money per child. A previous home based day care provider would let there friends come over and hang out during day care hours and I stopped going there instantly. Your home can be very comforting to a perspective client, but be careful not to let it seem like it is more of a babysitter than a day care. God bless you on your endeavors. You have a lot of work ahead of you. P.S. I prefer day cares that behave more like a business than a place to drop off your kids cause you have to go to work.