There’s a high demand for child care in Whatcom County. Many child care providers have long waiting lists, and parents often have trouble finding open slots.
Information sessions
Considering opening a child care business? In free community meetings offered throughout Whatcom County, child care professionals will provide an overview of the first steps to become a licensed child care provider, as well as information on the 
scholarship opportunities available to potential child care providers.
This Q & A session is a great place to start if:
- you already care for children in your home and would like to increase your income
- you are looking for a career change
- you are an aspiring entrepreneur with a love of early learning.
You will also be given information about free trainings, scholarships, and mentorships for potential child care providers.
For more information, email childcare@nulloppco.org or call (360) 739-0257.
- RSVP Here: Downtown Bellingham: Wednesday, May 9, 6:00-7:30pm — The Opportunity Council, #1111 Cornwall Ave.
- RSVP Here: North Bellingham: Tuesday, May 22, 6:00-7:30pm — Whatcom Community College, Kelly Hall #201
- RSVP Here: Maple Falls: Monday, June 4, 6:00-7:30pm — East Whatcom Regional Resource Center
- RSVP Here: Ferndale: Thursday, June 14, 6:00-7:30pm — Ferndale Public Library
- RSVP Here: Lynden: Saturday 9:30-11am — Lynden Community Center
Provider Resources
Training
- The Imagine Institute has a mentorship program for individuals interested in becoming a family home provider. Those who complete the program receive a $4,000 grant to invest in their new business.
Licensing
- The Department of Early Learning’s (DEL) webpage on licensing rules includes information on the rules and regulations surrounding child care businesses.
Business Tools
- DEL’s first steps for potential child care providers
- DEL’s child care provider handbook
- A guide to family home child care in Washington
- A small business guide from the Governor’s Office of Regulatory Innovation and Assistance includes resources for business strategies and tax information.
- Tom Copeland’s blog on family home child care is a great resource for individuals who are in the process of starting a child care. His website includes useful handouts and checklists for getting started.
- A guide on how to start a quality child care business from the US Small Business Administration.
- Whatcom County small business resources have been compiled by the Bellingham Public Library.
Early Achievers
- DEL’s Early Achievers page for providers has background information on Washington’s Quality Rating and Information System.
- University of Washington’s Cultivate Learning helps design Early Achievers.
Health, Safety, and Child Development
- DEL’s health and safety resources
- Tips, research, and information on child development from the Center for Disease Control.
- Zero to Three provides resources on the importance of a child’s earliest years.