Are you passionate about nature and early childhood education? Do you believe in the power of outdoor learning for young minds? If so, exploring the option of a licensed outdoor child care program could be your next rewarding venture. This innovative approach to childcare is gaining momentum, offering a unique blend of structured learning and nature immersion for preschool and school-age children. In Washington State, licensed outdoor nature-based (ONB) child care programs have become an official and increasingly popular choice for providers and parents alike since July 25, 2021.
These programs provide regularly scheduled care for children of various age groups – preschool, school-age, or mixed-age – outside of school hours and for less than 24 hours per day. The growing interest in this model is evident, with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) currently licensing 18 licensed outdoor child care programs and anticipating further expansion.
Why consider a licensed outdoor child care program? These programs offer a range of advantages:
- Financial Support and Program Integration: Licensed ONB programs are eligible to participate in key initiatives such as Early Achievers, the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), and child care subsidy programs like Working Connections Child Care. This access to funding and established frameworks can significantly benefit both providers and families.
- Tribal Program Partnerships: For Tribal communities, licensed outdoor child care programs can be integrated through interlocal agreements with DCYF, fostering culturally relevant and nature-based early learning opportunities.
- Grant Opportunities: Just like all licensed child care providers, ONB programs can apply for grants, providing avenues for program development, enhancement, and sustainability.
Embarking on the Journey to Become a Licensed Outdoor Child Care Provider
If you are inspired to establish your own licensed outdoor child care program, the DCYF has streamlined the initial steps to guide you through the process. A crucial first step is attending an orientation session, designed to equip you with the foundational knowledge and requirements for operating a successful and compliant program.
Currently, DCYF is finalizing an online orientation module for prospective ONB providers, anticipated to launch in mid-July/August. Once available, this online resource will offer convenient access to the necessary orientation materials. In the interim, expressing your interest is simple. Just send an email to [email protected], and your name will be added to a list for upcoming virtual ONB orientation sessions.
Navigating the Initial Steps to Licensing
To begin your journey toward becoming a licensed outdoor child care program provider, follow these essential steps:
Step One: Obtain a Stars ID in MERIT
If you don’t already possess a Stars ID number, your first action is to register for one through the MERIT system (https://apps.dcyf.wa.gov/MERIT). This unique identifier is essential for accessing DCYF resources and tracking your professional development.
Step Two: Access the DCYF Online Training Site
Next, visit the DCYF Online Training Site (https://dcyftraining.com/). If you are a new user, you will need to complete a brief registration process to access the training modules.
Step Three: Complete the Required Orientation
On the DCYF Online Training site, locate and complete the “Outdoor Nature-Based Child Care Program Orientation.” This orientation is a mandatory step in the licensing process and provides crucial information about program requirements and best practices.
The online training system is designed to automatically update your MERIT Workforce Registry record with your completed orientation, provided that the personal information in both systems matches. If you encounter any issues with your training record not being reflected in MERIT, reach out to [email protected] for assistance.
Step Four: Express Your Interest and Apply
After completing the orientation, and if you wish to formally apply for a licensed outdoor child care license, email the dedicated ONB team at [email protected]. They will provide you with the necessary application materials and guidance.
For detailed information regarding staff qualifications and professional development training specific to ONB providers, visit the Qualifications & Roles Requirements page.
Licensed outdoor child care programs represent an exciting and impactful direction in early childhood education. By embracing nature-based learning, these programs offer children enriching experiences and foster a lifelong connection with the natural world. If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of children while working in the inspiring setting of the outdoors, explore the possibilities of becoming a licensed outdoor child care program provider today.
