As a general rule, children 12 years and older may be left alone for a reasonable amount of time. Children ages 8-12 may be left unattended briefly (ex. parent running to the grocery store, after school for a short time, ect.) Children should never be left alone for long periods of time or overnight.

A child must be 13 years or older to babysit someone under the age of 8 years. Children can begin babysitting courses at age 11 and act as mommy assistants with supervision.

To become a child care provider you must attend a two part orientation sponsored by the Howard County Office of Child Care. All providers are then required to complete health & safety classes, child development and/or business classes as well as CPR & First Aid. A criminal background check is also required of each provider and person 18 years and older residing in the provider's home.

As part of the initial licensing process, child care providers undergo an inspection which includes inspection of the home or daycare center, sanitation, outdoor safety, program, health & nutrition, child protection records, and provider requirements as well as a fire safety inspection. Family child care providers are re-registered every 2 years with an announced visit and unannounced visit in the off year. Child care centers are completed every year and may have drop-in visits.

A family provider can be licensed to care for up to eight children. Two of the children may be infants under the age of 2 years. There may be limits to the actual number of children cared for based upon the home environment, provider's own children, and presence of a co-provider.

Family child care providers and child care centers are mandated to follow the open door policy. The open door policy basically gives parents the right to drop by the family home or child care center once the child is in care at any time.