Washington State stands at the forefront of innovative child care solutions, championing Outdoor Nature-Based (ONB) programs. These unique programs offer scheduled care in nature-rich settings for preschool and school-age children, providing enriching experiences outside traditional classrooms. If you’re passionate about outdoor education and considering starting A Licensed Outdoor Child Care Program, Washington offers a supportive framework to turn your vision into reality. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) currently licenses numerous ONB programs and provides resources to help you through every step of the licensing process.
For those intrigued by the prospect of operating a licensed outdoor child care program, DCYF offers comprehensive support and guidance. Initiating your journey is straightforward: simply reach out to the DCYF’s dedicated ONB team at [email protected]. This initial contact will connect you with the resources and information necessary to understand the licensing requirements and application process.
Licensed ONB programs in Washington State are not only beneficial for children and families but also offer operational advantages. These programs are eligible to participate in various state initiatives designed to support early learning and child care accessibility. This includes participation in Early Achievers, a quality rating and improvement system; the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), which provides comprehensive early learning services to eligible children and families; and child care subsidy programs like Working Connections Child Care, which helps low-income families afford child care. Furthermore, a licensed outdoor child care program can access grant opportunities available to all licensed child care providers in the state, enhancing financial sustainability and program development. Notably, Tribal programs can also integrate ONB programming through collaborative interlocal agreements with DCYF, expanding the reach of nature-based education.
Understanding the ONB Program Experience
To truly grasp the essence of a licensed outdoor child care program, visualizing it in action is invaluable. A brief video showcasing existing ONB programs across Washington State offers a glimpse into the dynamic and engaging environments these programs cultivate. This visual introduction provides prospective providers with a clearer understanding of the daily activities, learning methodologies, and the overall atmosphere of a successful ONB program.
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-->Steps to Become a Licensed ONB Provider: Orientation and Registration
Embarking on the path to establish a licensed outdoor child care program requires a structured approach. DCYF has outlined a clear, step-by-step process to guide aspiring providers through the licensing journey. A mandatory first step is attending an ONB Child Care Orientation. DCYF is transitioning to a convenient online orientation format, anticipated to launch in mid-July/August. Once live, the online orientation will be accessible via the DCYF website, providing on-demand access to crucial information. Until the online version is launched, interested individuals should email the ONB team at [email protected] to register for a virtual orientation session.
Step-by-Step Licensing Guide
Step One: Obtain a STARS ID in MERIT
If you are new to Washington State’s early learning systems, your initial action is to register for a STARS ID number within the MERIT system. MERIT, the Managed Education and Registry Information Tool, is Washington’s professional development and workforce registry for early learning professionals. You can register for your STARS ID through the MERIT application portal. This unique identifier is essential for accessing various resources and completing the licensing process.
Step Two: Access the DCYF Online Training Site
Next, navigate to the DCYF Online Training Site. If you are a first-time user, you will need to create a new user account on this platform. This training site is your central hub for accessing the required ONB Child Care Program Orientation and other valuable training modules.
Step Three: Complete the ONB Child Care Program Orientation
Within the DCYF Online Training site, locate and complete the ONB Child Care Program Orientation. This orientation is a critical component of the licensing process, providing essential information about ONB program requirements, best practices, and regulatory guidelines. The online system automatically records your completed orientation within your MERIT Workforce Registry record, provided that the personal information in both systems is consistent. If you encounter any issues with your completed training not being recorded in MERIT, contact MERIT support at [email protected] for assistance.
Step Four: Initiate Your License Application (If Applicable)
After completing the orientation and deciding to proceed with your application for a licensed outdoor child care program, the final step is to formally express your interest. Email the dedicated ONB team at [email protected] to begin the application process. The ONB team will provide you with the necessary application materials and ongoing support throughout the licensing procedure.
For detailed information regarding staff qualifications and required professional development training specific to ONB providers, refer to the Qualifications & Roles Requirements section on the DCYF website. This resource outlines the necessary credentials and training for staff members in a licensed outdoor child care program, ensuring high-quality care and education in nature-based settings.
By following these steps and leveraging the resources provided by DCYF, you can successfully establish and operate a licensed outdoor child care program in Washington State, contributing to the growing movement of nature-based early learning.
