Date of Award

1997

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Daniel W. Kemper

Second Advisor

Jan Kniffen

Third Advisor

Joseph Silverio

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the child care industry and the feasibility of opening a child care center in the O'Fallon, Missouri area. It takes a look at the industry from both a national level as well as a local level, analyzing the history, business philosophy, marketing strategies, financial components, competition, management needs, and the service itself.

Research shows there is a definite lack of quality child care centers to care for the number of children in the United States who are between the ages of six months and twelve years. This is also the case in the O'Fallon area where the recently established child care facilities have not been able to keep up with the growing population. Research also shows that many centers are poorly managed and may neglect the health and safety regulations established by the state government. Many centers are also unable to retain quality care givers due to low wages and benefits that are offered by the centers because of the unavailability of adequate funds.

There is a great need for centers that provide good care as well as the educational nurturing necessary to prepare children for school, college and the world around them. Children need a safe, secure environment to grow mentally, physically and emotionally while parents need to know they are leaving their children in the best possible place while they are at work.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not it is possible to open a child care facility in the O'Fallon area that can incorporate the necessary components to nurture children in the best possible way. This includes good care, a quality curriculum, individual attention and maintenance of state and local child care regulations and, at the same time, being a profitable business with.in the community.

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