6 answers
Celina
Student
Fountain, Colorado
1
Question
Asked
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How long would it take to own a business if I have not been to college yet?
I have been interested in early childhood education for most of my life, and I took an early college class on the subject once. But I have not fully been through college.
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6 answers
Hasnain Joiya
CEO at SeeMake
38
Answers
Pakistan
Updated
Hasnain’s Answer
The time it takes to own a business in early childhood education without a college degree can vary based on several factors. Here are some considerations:
𝟭. 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲:
If you already have a strong background in early childhood education and relevant experience, you may be able to start a business more quickly. Practical experience and a deep understanding of the field can compensate for the lack of a formal degree.
𝟮. 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀:
Check the legal requirements for starting an early childhood education business in your location. Some regions may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Ensure you meet all the necessary legal standards.
𝟯. 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Developing a comprehensive business plan is crucial. This includes defining your target market, outlining your services, setting pricing strategies, and planning your marketing approach. Taking the time to create a solid business plan is essential for long-term success.
𝟰. 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Building a network within the early childhood education community can be beneficial. Establishing connections with professionals, parents, and organizations can help you gain insights, find potential clients, and navigate the industry more effectively.
𝟱. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
Consider your financial situation. Starting a business requires initial investment and ongoing operational costs. Ensure you have a clear understanding of your financial needs and have a plan for sustaining the business until it becomes profitable.
𝟲. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:
Familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal regulations related to early childhood education businesses. Compliance with regulations is critical for the safety and well-being of the children in your care.
𝟳. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴:
While you may not have a college degree, consider pursuing continuous learning opportunities. Attend workshops, conferences, and training programs to stay updated on best practices in early childhood education.
𝟴. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Invest time in marketing and branding your business. Creating a strong online presence, developing promotional materials, and establishing a positive reputation in the community are essential for attracting clients.
𝟵. 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄:
Consider starting small and gradually expanding your business. This allows you to test your approach, gain experience, and refine your services based on feedback from clients.
𝟭𝟬. 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆:
Be adaptable and open to learning from your experiences. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and continuously improve your services is key to long-term success.
✌️ 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻:
The time it takes to own and successfully run a business in early childhood education without a college degree depends on your individual circumstances and the factors mentioned above. It's important to thoroughly research and plan your business, seek guidance from mentors or professionals in the field, and be prepared for the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.
𝟭. 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲:
If you already have a strong background in early childhood education and relevant experience, you may be able to start a business more quickly. Practical experience and a deep understanding of the field can compensate for the lack of a formal degree.
𝟮. 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀:
Check the legal requirements for starting an early childhood education business in your location. Some regions may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Ensure you meet all the necessary legal standards.
𝟯. 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Developing a comprehensive business plan is crucial. This includes defining your target market, outlining your services, setting pricing strategies, and planning your marketing approach. Taking the time to create a solid business plan is essential for long-term success.
𝟰. 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Building a network within the early childhood education community can be beneficial. Establishing connections with professionals, parents, and organizations can help you gain insights, find potential clients, and navigate the industry more effectively.
𝟱. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
Consider your financial situation. Starting a business requires initial investment and ongoing operational costs. Ensure you have a clear understanding of your financial needs and have a plan for sustaining the business until it becomes profitable.
𝟲. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:
Familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal regulations related to early childhood education businesses. Compliance with regulations is critical for the safety and well-being of the children in your care.
𝟳. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴:
While you may not have a college degree, consider pursuing continuous learning opportunities. Attend workshops, conferences, and training programs to stay updated on best practices in early childhood education.
𝟴. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Invest time in marketing and branding your business. Creating a strong online presence, developing promotional materials, and establishing a positive reputation in the community are essential for attracting clients.
𝟵. 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄:
Consider starting small and gradually expanding your business. This allows you to test your approach, gain experience, and refine your services based on feedback from clients.
𝟭𝟬. 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆:
Be adaptable and open to learning from your experiences. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and continuously improve your services is key to long-term success.
✌️ 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻:
The time it takes to own and successfully run a business in early childhood education without a college degree depends on your individual circumstances and the factors mentioned above. It's important to thoroughly research and plan your business, seek guidance from mentors or professionals in the field, and be prepared for the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Starting a business can be a pretty strait forward process. With some luck and know how, you could have something going within a week. It really does depend on the type of business. If you want to work with kids, education will be vital to satisfy government requirements and show those you are supporting that their kids are in qualified hands.
Find someone who has a similar company can call them! Let them know you are looking to do something similar and you’d like to pick their brain. You can learn so much by just asking the right questions. If you do this, try reaching out to someone in a different city that way they won’t fear you as potential competition :)
Find someone who has a similar company can call them! Let them know you are looking to do something similar and you’d like to pick their brain. You can learn so much by just asking the right questions. If you do this, try reaching out to someone in a different city that way they won’t fear you as potential competition :)
deborah kania, bfa, mba
Marketing
70
Answers
New Bern, North Carolina
Updated
deborah’s Answer
Hello Celina! In order to own your own childcare business, going to college for early childhood credential. Each state's requirements are different. You may not need a 4-year degree. In our state, students can complete credential at junior/community college. I suggest working in childcare in as many functions in that business for experience. In addition to direct childcare experience, this will prepare you to be able to successfully operate the center and the business. I am estimating 5-7 years before opening your own childcare business.
I have included link to Colorado's early childhood credentials requirements.
I hope my answer is helpful too you. Good luck!
https://www.coloradoofficeofearlychildhood.com/OEC_Providers?p=Providers&s=Early-Childhood-Teacher-Certification&lang=en
I have included link to Colorado's early childhood credentials requirements.
I hope my answer is helpful too you. Good luck!
deborah recommends the following next steps:
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Celina !
What a wonderful career goal you have and I would like to share some thoughts and advice for you.
You would not be able to open an early childhood center or preschool or such until you have both the education and financial means to do so. There is grant funding (not guaranteed) for certain types of child care work, but grant writing is also a full time job. You will need to go to college for Early Childhood Education first.
After college, with the appropriate degree and credentials, you will need to work in the field and there are several ways that you can apply your qualifications. You can work as a teacher's aid, child care provider, kindergarten teacher, preschool teacher, nanny, special ed teacher, school counselor, education director, education consultant, sales representative for children's toys and books or work in a social service at an agency that serves families and children. At work you will learn a lot about business, profit or non-profit by actually doing before you open your own place. No one can tell you how long it will take. It is a process just like every other career. Take it a step at a time. There may be certifications you may need so you should research this on line to be sure you meet requirements. While you are in college you will obtain the current information about all of this.
Since you like to work with children you can consider volunteering now as a recreation leader or in whatever capacity you want to specialize in.
You will need the education and the experience plus a large financial investment in order to have your own organization or company. I highly suggest researching what is needed to work in these fields and I highly suggest that you consider obtaining a Masters Degree in the subject. You will be getting most of your information about what you've asked while you are in college. When people bring their children to services they want to be assured that the director of a place has valid education and credentials, so now is not the time to open a company. No matter what career you go into it takes time and happens at different times for everyone.
Working or volunteering with child care now will teach you about yourself, too. You will learn which specialty you'd like to pursue, how you work in groups or with a child one on one. There's so much more you will learn, so enjoy each step and know that the preparation for this career is part of the enjoyment. One day when you do have your own agency, you will be happy for the journey that led to it !
Best wishes in all you do !
What a wonderful career goal you have and I would like to share some thoughts and advice for you.
You would not be able to open an early childhood center or preschool or such until you have both the education and financial means to do so. There is grant funding (not guaranteed) for certain types of child care work, but grant writing is also a full time job. You will need to go to college for Early Childhood Education first.
After college, with the appropriate degree and credentials, you will need to work in the field and there are several ways that you can apply your qualifications. You can work as a teacher's aid, child care provider, kindergarten teacher, preschool teacher, nanny, special ed teacher, school counselor, education director, education consultant, sales representative for children's toys and books or work in a social service at an agency that serves families and children. At work you will learn a lot about business, profit or non-profit by actually doing before you open your own place. No one can tell you how long it will take. It is a process just like every other career. Take it a step at a time. There may be certifications you may need so you should research this on line to be sure you meet requirements. While you are in college you will obtain the current information about all of this.
Since you like to work with children you can consider volunteering now as a recreation leader or in whatever capacity you want to specialize in.
You will need the education and the experience plus a large financial investment in order to have your own organization or company. I highly suggest researching what is needed to work in these fields and I highly suggest that you consider obtaining a Masters Degree in the subject. You will be getting most of your information about what you've asked while you are in college. When people bring their children to services they want to be assured that the director of a place has valid education and credentials, so now is not the time to open a company. No matter what career you go into it takes time and happens at different times for everyone.
Working or volunteering with child care now will teach you about yourself, too. You will learn which specialty you'd like to pursue, how you work in groups or with a child one on one. There's so much more you will learn, so enjoy each step and know that the preparation for this career is part of the enjoyment. One day when you do have your own agency, you will be happy for the journey that led to it !
Best wishes in all you do !
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
350
Answers
Spanish Fork, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
The best two resources I know of for learning to run a business are Dave Ramsey's book EntreLeadership and this workbook (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/bc/content/ldsorg/topics/self-reliance/2017/14678_sgmb_book_eng.pdf?lang=eng).
Please note that the workbook provided in this answer represents a religious perspective on the subject matter.
Sharyn Grose, Admin
Moataz Elfar
general manger
17
Answers
Mansoura, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt
Updated
Moataz’s Answer
The journey to business ownership can greatly differ depending on various factors such as the nature of the business, industry prerequisites, your readiness, and your distinct business objectives. When it comes to early childhood education, there are several pivotal steps on the path to ownership:
Educational and Training Path:
A college degree can be advantageous, but it's not always a rigid requirement for entrepreneurship, particularly in fields like early childhood education.
Your initial college courses on the subject are a fantastic starting point, and you might want to explore further specialized training or certifications in childcare or education.
Strategic Business Planning:
Invest time in crafting a robust business plan. This encompasses outlining your business idea, identifying your target audience, detailing the services you'll provide, and creating a comprehensive plan for operations and finances.
Get to know the legal and regulatory prerequisites for establishing a childcare or early education business in your locality.
Acquiring Relevant Experience:
Think about acquiring hands-on experience by working in the early childhood education sector. This experience will not only polish your skills but also offer invaluable insights into the industry.
Networking and Establishing Connections:
Forge connections with professionals in the field, become a member of relevant associations, and participate in conferences or events. Building a strong network can offer support, mentorship, and potential collaborations.
Financial Readiness:
Evaluate the financial necessities for initiating and maintaining your business. This might involve securing funding, either through personal savings, loans, or grants.
Legal and Licensing Obligations:
Investigate and adhere to the licensing prerequisites for early childhood education businesses in your area. This might require obtaining essential certifications and adhering to health and safety norms.
Business Launch:
Once you've crafted a comprehensive plan, gained the necessary qualifications, and fulfilled legal obligations, you can move forward with launching your business.
Promoting your services will be crucial to draw in clients.
Ongoing Learning and Enhancement:
Even post-launch, continue to stay updated about advancements in early childhood education. Attend seminars, engage in professional growth, and adjust your services based on industry trends.
While a college degree can lay a solid groundwork, successful entrepreneurship often blends education, experience, and a proactive approach to learning and adapting. Some entrepreneurs opt to start businesses without a college degree, emphasizing practical experience, industry expertise, and networking. However, it's vital to be thoroughly prepared and knowledgeable about the specific prerequisites and challenges of your chosen industry. Always seek guidance from mentors or professionals in the field to steer you on your entrepreneurial voyage.
Educational and Training Path:
A college degree can be advantageous, but it's not always a rigid requirement for entrepreneurship, particularly in fields like early childhood education.
Your initial college courses on the subject are a fantastic starting point, and you might want to explore further specialized training or certifications in childcare or education.
Strategic Business Planning:
Invest time in crafting a robust business plan. This encompasses outlining your business idea, identifying your target audience, detailing the services you'll provide, and creating a comprehensive plan for operations and finances.
Get to know the legal and regulatory prerequisites for establishing a childcare or early education business in your locality.
Acquiring Relevant Experience:
Think about acquiring hands-on experience by working in the early childhood education sector. This experience will not only polish your skills but also offer invaluable insights into the industry.
Networking and Establishing Connections:
Forge connections with professionals in the field, become a member of relevant associations, and participate in conferences or events. Building a strong network can offer support, mentorship, and potential collaborations.
Financial Readiness:
Evaluate the financial necessities for initiating and maintaining your business. This might involve securing funding, either through personal savings, loans, or grants.
Legal and Licensing Obligations:
Investigate and adhere to the licensing prerequisites for early childhood education businesses in your area. This might require obtaining essential certifications and adhering to health and safety norms.
Business Launch:
Once you've crafted a comprehensive plan, gained the necessary qualifications, and fulfilled legal obligations, you can move forward with launching your business.
Promoting your services will be crucial to draw in clients.
Ongoing Learning and Enhancement:
Even post-launch, continue to stay updated about advancements in early childhood education. Attend seminars, engage in professional growth, and adjust your services based on industry trends.
While a college degree can lay a solid groundwork, successful entrepreneurship often blends education, experience, and a proactive approach to learning and adapting. Some entrepreneurs opt to start businesses without a college degree, emphasizing practical experience, industry expertise, and networking. However, it's vital to be thoroughly prepared and knowledgeable about the specific prerequisites and challenges of your chosen industry. Always seek guidance from mentors or professionals in the field to steer you on your entrepreneurial voyage.