Licensed child care centers and family child care homes must pass a criminal background check, attend initial and ongoing training, and pass health and safety inspections. The number of children who can be cared for by one adult is limited by licensing regulations.
(3) A subject individual will be disqualified when their background contains a negative action, as defined in WAC 170-06-0020 that relates to: (a) An act, finding, determination, decision, or the commission of abuse or neglect of a child as defined in chapters 26.44 RCW and 388-15 WAC.
Once you send in your application, the department may take up to 90 days to process an initial license application.
Families residing in Washington state may be eligible for Child Care Subsidy if their income is at or below 60% of the state Median Income (SMI) at application or 65% of SMI when reapplying. For a family of two, that is $3,641 per month, for a family of three $4,498, and for a family of four $5,354.
(1) An early learning provider may keep a child in care up to a maximum of ten hours each day. If needed, the maximum time may be extended based upon the parent or guardian's work, an agreed upon alternate schedule, or travel to and from the early learning program.
Complaints. File a complaint: If you have any concerns about a provider please call CPS (Child Protective Services) at 1-800-562-5624. Child Care Check provides information on complaints on a provider. Access this information at 866-482-4325 or their website at .
Families residing in Washington state may be eligible for Child Care Subsidy if their income is at or below 60% of the state Median Income (SMI) at application or 65% of SMI when reapplying. For a family of two, that is $3,641 per month, for a family of three $4,498, and for a family of four $5,354.