For Child Care Providers

Supporting child care providers across Northwest Washington

Opportunity Council supports child care providers, early learning programs, and child care businesses across Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom Counties because a strong child care system is essential to family stability, workforce participation, and positive outcomes for children.

Through Child Care Aware of Northwest Washington, C-RECC (Center for Retention and Expansion of Child Care), and partnerships with Child Care Aware of Washington, the Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce, Whatcom Taking Action, and SEAS, we collaborate to support the child care workforce, expand access to quality child care, and strengthen the early learning systems families and communities rely on.

Resources for Current Child Care Providers

Child Care Aware of Northwest Washington (CCA Northwest) supports licensed and license-exempt child care providers with tools and services designed to strengthen quality, sustainability, and access to care. Coordinated by Opportunity Council and serving Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, and Snohomish Counties, CCA Northwest partners with providers, businesses, community organizations, and families throughout Northwest Washington.

CCA Northwest can help child care providers with:

  •  Coaching and technical assistance
  • Access to training and professional development
  • Connections to community resources and systems
  • Support navigating child care programs and services

Contact CCA Northwest:

Starting or Expanding a Child Care Program

If you are thinking about opening a child care program—either in your home or in a center—The Center for Retention and Expansion of Child Care Northwest (CRECC) offers specialized support for new and prospective providers.
The CRECC team can help with:

Pediatric Oral Health Resources for Early Learning Programs

If you serve young children and are looking for support with oral health education, prevention, or supplies, Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) can help. Opportunity Council participates as part of ABCD’s statewide network in Washington. ABCD focuses on early childhood oral health and works with providers serving children from birth to age five, as well as children with special health care needs up to age 12.

Provider support includes:

  • Oral health education for early learning settings
  • Guidance on prevention and healthy habits
  • Connection to ABCD specialists and resources

Contact ABCD:

Resources for Families with Developmental Concerns

Providers who work with families that have concerns about a child’s development can refer families to Single Entry Access to Services (SEAS), a collaboration with Opportunity Council and Whatcom Taking Action. SEAS connects families and professionals to screenings, evaluations, and support services for children from birth through age 21 in Whatcom County.

SEAS Support Line:

Partnering to Strengthen Early Learning

Opportunity Council and its partners are committed to ensuring every child has access to high-quality early learning experiences—and that providers have the support they need to thrive. Explore the resources above or reach out to learn how we can work together