2 Questions re: starting an unlicensed day care at home in Virginia.?

I want to start a before and after school home daycare for children in my home to help bring money into my family. The average hours spent at my home will probably be 5 1/2 to 6 hours every day. My first question: What is fair price to charge? I know daycare facilities charge around $75-90 a week but I don't know what the ave. is for home daycare. My second questio: Does anyone know what the child ratio is for home care? I know the law is different for unlicensed home care. In some states it is 3 children in addition to your own. I live in Winchester, VA

Answer:
to get the official confirmation and make sure that you do not run afoul of the law, I suggest you check with the agency licensing daycares in Virginia. Ask for their policies on unlicensed daycares:

Virginia Department of Social Services
Division of Licensing Programs
7 North Eighth Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: 800-543-7545 (within state)
or 804-662-9743 (nationwide)
Fax: 804-662-9743
Web site: http://www.dss.state.va.us/division/lice...

According to the Virginia Department of Social Services
http://www.dss.virginia.gov/facility/chi...

"The Code of Virginia mandates the licensure of family day homes that provide care for six to twelve children (exclusive of the provider's own children and any children who reside in the home)."

From the above, I would surmise that you can run an unlicensed daycare if you have 5 or less children. But I suggest you call them and verify
Another thing to consider in starting a day care in your home is what does your home owners insurance policy state? You may not be covered if a child gets injured on your property. You'd be better off in that regard going through whatever licensing process your state requires. But do check your policy.