Licensed child care centers and family homes now have an updated Facility/Site Details page in MERIT. Join us and learn what this update entails! We'll discuss the following in more detail:

• A look into the new “Licensed Job Roles” tab
• A step-by-step tutorial to help employers refine staff information 
• A review of how to use the MERIT dashboard

Thursday, July 14 | 6 p.m.

Register Here

Please note this webinar has been cancelled for the July date, but will be rescheduled for a later date. The PD team has been busy working with an advisory group to develop dual language (DL) standards for the DL designation as part of the Fair Start for Kids Act work. 

Join us to hear the update on this work. The following will be discussed in detail: 

• Outreach and engagement strategies for the designation 
• An update around the language standards
• Next steps and important timelines for this work 

New Date To Be Determined-- Stay Tuned!

If you would like to register for this webinar when the new date is scheduled, please email Marlene White. 

In 2021, DCYF became the first agency in the nation to license outdoor, nature-based (ONB) child care programs.  

ONB programs offer early learning services to
children in outdoor natural space and teach children a nature-based curriculum.

ONB professionals must have specialized knowledge and skills in order to offer a safe, high-quality outdoor learning experience.

The recently published Washington State Nature-Based Learning Competencies: Supplement for Early Care and Education Professionals is a tool for professionals who provide this type of care.  

During this live webinar, we'll take a closer look at the ONB Competencies! Join us and learn more about this exciting venture.

Tuesday, Aug. 16 | 6 p.m.

Register Here

The publication is available in the DCYF publication library in English, Spanish, and Somali.

You know that feeling you get when you know where you're going? You may not know how to get there, but you're excited to you know your path? Well, we want to help you get there with this refresher webinar!

Join us as we discuss the multiple options, known as 'equivalents,' for meeting the educational requirements. We'll discuss the following options in detail: 

• Education: Alternative Credentials: College/Credit Bearing
• Training: Community-Based Training Series
• Experience: Experience-Based Competency Demonstration

Wednesday, Sept. 21 | 6 p.m.

Register Here

• Please make sure you input your email address correctly when registering, otherwise you will not receive the meeting details
• The webinar series are voluntary and in-service (STARS) hours are not available
• These webinars are created as a resource and participation is always optional
• Most webinars are recorded and posted to our Webinars webpage

The PD team is committed to having the public and stakeholders engage and contribute to our work.

Currently, our team has multiple opportunities to get involved in areas around PACE (Provider Access to a Community Equivalent), dual language, and the State-Approved Training Program.

We'd love to hear your voice! 

Get Involved