You can do it.
There is tremendous need in our region for quality child care. Free resources, training, and support is available to help you start your own child care business.
Mentorship for new Family Child Care Providers
- Reaching out to the Imagine Institute about their mentorship program is best first step for participants seeking to open a child care business in their home.
Licensing Questions
- The Department of Children, Youth, and Family Services (DCYF) includes information on the licensing process, rules, and regulations.
- DCYF Licensing Orientation information: Learn about DCYF orientations for child care centers and family home child care providers.
Other Resources
- Child Care Aware of America resources for opening and operating a child care business
- Business Edge – free tools for participants in Early Achievers: Tools, tips, resources, discounts, templates and more to help you run your child care small businesses
- Tom Copeland’s blog on family home child care for individuals who are in the process of starting a child care. The website includes useful handouts and checklists for getting started.
- Whatcom County small business resources compiled by the Bellingham Public Library.
Consultation for new Child Care Centers
- Free consultation sessions are available to child care centers that have started the licensing process.
- We also provide training for child care programs and early childhood educators
