How to start a preschool in Washington

Aspiring preschool founders in Washington State are embarking on a fulfilling journey to provide essential early learning services. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is the primary licensing authority, responsible for overseeing approximately 6,800 early learning programs and school-age sites throughout the state. Their foundational quality standards, outlined in the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), ensure that all licensed child care settings are safe, healthy, and nurturing environments for children. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is paramount for a successful launch. The DCYF’s commitment to quality child care is evident in its comprehensive regulatory framework, including specific WACs for various program types, from family homes to outdoor nature-based settings. Prospective providers should thoroughly familiarise themselves with the relevant WACs to navigate the licensing process effectively and establish a program that meets Washington's high standards for early learning. Resources like Child Care Check and Child Care Aware of Washington are invaluable for understanding existing provisions and preparing for your own establishment.

Regulations

Health safety: Health and safety standards for early learning programmes in Washington are governed by the Washington Administrative Code (WAC). While specific details on safeguarding policies, medication administration, immunisation protocols, or illness exclusion criteria are not provided, the DCYF has policies covering emergent situations after hours (POL10.1.5) and managing safe sleep practices (POL10.1.16). Incident reporting would fall under the broad scope of managing child care complaints (POL10.3.1) and reviewing child fatality and near fatality incidents (POL10.1.17). Approving sanitizers or disinfectants (POL10.1.24) is also part of their regulatory oversight, indicating a focus on hygiene. Providers must consult the relevant WAC chapters, particularly WAC 110-300, for comprehensive health and safety regulations.

Licensing overview: The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is responsible for licensing early learning and school-age child care programmes in Washington State. Licensing ensures providers meet foundational quality standards defined in the Washington Administrative Code (WAC). The application process involves adhering to specific WACs relevant to the type of programme: Family Home, Child Care Center, School-Age, or Outdoor Nature-Based. DCYF conducts monitoring visits as part of its ongoing oversight. Licensed programmes must comply with a range of policies and procedures covering everything from facility compliance to health and safety practices. Non-expiring licenses require annual compliance, and DCYF maintains policies for managing various situations, including complaints, emergent situations, and changes to the child care environment.

Licensing authority: Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF)

Staff qualifications: Specific staff qualifications are detailed within the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) for different types of early learning programmes. While the provided sources do not specify exact lead teacher or assistant requirements, all staff working in licensed programmes must undergo background checks in accordance with WAC 110-06. These checks are a critical component of ensuring child safety and are managed by DCYF. Ongoing training requirements are also a general component of maintaining childcare licensure; however, specific details on these requirements are not provided in the source material. Providers should consult the relevant WAC sections for precise qualification and training mandates.

Facility requirements: Facility requirements for early learning programmes in Washington State are established within the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), primarily WAC 110-300 for Child Care Centers and Family Homes, and WAC 110-302 for Outdoor Nature-Based programmes. These codes detail the foundational quality standards that licensed facilities must meet. Though specific square footage per child, outdoor space mandates, or ratios for fixtures are not explicitly provided in the summaries, the WACs cover comprehensive requirements. Additionally, policies for requesting fire inspections (POL10.1.11) indicate that fire and safety codes are a crucial part of facility compliance. Providers must ensure their physical environment aligns with these detailed state regulations.

Curriculum requirements: The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) sets foundational quality standards for early learning programmes through the Washington Administrative Code (WAC). While the sources do not explicitly mandate a specific curriculum framework such as EYFS or NQF, adherence to the WAC — particularly WAC 110-300 for Early Learning Programs — implies a set of expectations for educational content and child development outcomes. Programmes are expected to align with these foundational standards to ensure children in licensed care receive quality early learning experiences. How a specific curriculum like the IPC aligns would depend on its ability to meet the general educational and developmental objectives outlined in the state's WACs.

Startup costs

Startup costs in Washington vary significantly based on the programme type and scale. A small, home-based family early learning programme will incur lower initial costs, primarily for minor renovations, supplies, and licensing fees. A larger purpose-built Child Care Center serving 60-100 children would face substantial expenses related to property acquisition or long-term leasing, extensive facility modifications to meet WAC standards, higher staffing needs, and comprehensive furnishing. Monthly operating costs are similarly influenced by rent/mortgage, utility expenses, staff salaries, insurance, programme supplies, and food services. Location within Washington State, particularly urban versus rural, can also impact property and labour costs.

Timeline

1. Understand Licensing Requirements (1-2 months): Thoroughly review the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) relevant to your chosen programme type: WAC 110-300 for Family Home or Child Care Center, WAC 110-301 for School-Age, or WAC 110-302 for Outdoor Nature-Based. This step involves understanding the foundational quality standards, facility requirements, staff qualifications, and health and safety regulations mandated by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Familiarise yourself with policies on background checks (WAC 110-06) and general licensing procedures to ensure a strong foundation for your application.

2. Prepare Your Facility (2-6 months): Based on the WAC requirements, prepare your physical space. This may involve renovations, ensuring adequate indoor and outdoor learning environments, and checking compliance with fire and safety codes. For Child Care Centers, this could mean significant construction or retrofitting. Family Home programmes will adapt their residential space. Requesting fire inspections (POL10.1.11) is a critical component of this stage. Ensure all health and safety stipulations, including those for safe sleep practices, are met before proceeding with the application.

3. Submit License Application (1-3 months): Submit a comprehensive license application to the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). This application will demonstrate how your programme meets all WAC requirements, including details on your programme's policies, staff background checks, facility plans, and operational procedures. DCYF's policy on issuing child care licenses (POL10.1.12) outlines the process. Await an initial review and potential on-site consultation or inspection to verify compliance with all state foundational quality standards.

4. Undergo Inspections and Approval (1-2 months): Following application submission, DCYF will conduct monitoring visits as per POL10.1.8 to ensure your programme meets all licensing standards. This includes verifying facility compliance, staff qualifications, health and safety protocols, and general operational adherence to the WAC. Address any identified deficiencies or requests for additional information promptly. Successful completion of inspections and full compliance with all regulations will lead to the issuance of your child care license by DCYF.

5. Ongoing Compliance and Operations (Ongoing): Once licensed, your early learning programme must maintain continuous compliance with all Washington Administrative Code (WAC) requirements and DCYF policies. This includes annual compliance checks, managing any changes to the environment or capacity, and adhering to all health and safety regulations. DCYF maintains policies for ongoing licence management, including maintaining active status (POL10.1.14), managing complaints (POL10.3.1), and addressing any emergencies. Utilize resources like Child Care Check for ongoing support and information.

6. Enroll Children and Begin Operations (Ongoing): With your licence secured, you can officially enrol children and commence operations. Continue to uphold the high standards set by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and the Washington Administrative Code. Regularly review DCYF's policies and procedures to ensure your programme remains current with all regulations and best practices in early learning. Consider registering for programmes like Early Achievers to support ongoing quality improvement and maintain positive engagement with state resources for child care providers.

7. Apply for Funding and Support (Variable): Explore available funding and subsidy programmes to support your early learning programme. In Washington, the Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) and Seasonal Child Care Subsidy Programs (WAC 110-15) are vital resources for families, which indirectly supports providers. While direct grants for start-up are not explicitly detailed in the provided sources, engaging with DCYF’s 'Early Achievers Supports and Resources' and Child Care Aware of Washington can provide information on financial aid, quality improvement initiatives, and business support that may be available to licensed providers.

Next steps: explore the IPC curriculum, read about preschool enrollment, or browse all start-a-preschool guides.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find out if a child care provider in Washington is licensed?

You can check the licensing status and history of any child care provider in Washington State through 'Child Care Check,' which is the state's official licensed child care status and record database. It provides information on background check statuses, licensing history, and monitoring reports. For further assistance in finding programmes that meet your family’s needs, you can also contact Child Care Aware of Washington’s Family Center at 1-800-446-1114. This service helps families navigate the options and understand provider records.

What are the different types of child care licenses in Washington State?

Washington State offers several types of child care licenses, each catering to different operational models. These include a Family Home early learning programme, which is provided in the licensee’s home for up to 12 children from birth to age 13; a Child Care Center early learning programme, offered in a facility for groups of children from birth to age 13 for less than 24 hours per day; a School-Age child care programme, for children ages 5 to 13 outside of school hours; and an Outdoor Nature-Based child care programme, conducted mostly outdoors for preschool and/or school-age children.

What is the role of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) in child care?

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating early learning programmes in Washington. DCYF ensures that all licensed programmes adhere to foundational quality standards outlined in the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), which cover aspects such as facility safety, staff qualifications, and health protocols. They also manage background checks, conduct monitoring visits, and handle complaints to ensure children are in safe, healthy, and nurturing environments. DCYF also provides access to resources and policies for child care providers.

Are there any exemptions to child care licensing in Washington?

Yes, Washington State provides specific exemptions from child care licensing. These include informal parent co-ops, care provided by family members, friends, or neighbours who care for children occasionally rather than on a regular basis. Additionally, some ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program) and Head Start programmes may be exempt, particularly when operating on a school-day basis and located within or on the property of public schools, community colleges, or technical colleges. However, this specific exemption for ECEAP and Head Start programmes is effective from June 11, 2026 onwards.

Where can I find the specific rules and regulations for child care licensing in Washington?

The specific rules and regulations for child care licensing in Washington State are detailed in the Washington Administrative Code (WAC). Key WAC chapters include WAC 110-300 for Foundational Quality Standards for Early Learning Programs (Child Care Centers and Family Homes), WAC 110-301 for Licensed School-Age Child Care Standards, and WAC 110-302 for Outdoor Nature-Based Child Care Licensing Rules. WAC 110-06 outlines the Background Check Rules for Early Learning Programs. These documents, available via the Washington State Legislature website, provide comprehensive details on the requirements for becoming and remaining a licensed provider.

What is Early Achievers in Washington State?

Early Achievers is Washington's quality recognition and improvement system for licensed child care and early learning programmes. While the provided sources do not detail its specific mechanisms, it is highlighted as a programme offering supports and resources for providers. Engaging with Early Achievers generally assists programmes in enhancing their quality beyond the basic licensing requirements, fostering continuous improvement in early learning environments. Further information on Early Achievers can be found through the DCYF or related early learning support organisations in Washington.

Who can I contact for more help with child care in Washington?

For comprehensive assistance with child care in Washington State, you can contact the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) directly at 360-902-8060 or 1-800-723-4831. Additionally, Child Care Aware of Washington provides family support services through their Family Center, which can be reached at 1-800-446-1114. These organisations offer guidance on licensing, searching for providers, and understanding state resources for early learning.