Qualifications ensure professionals have the training and knowledge they need to provide high-quality services to Washington’s children, youth, and families.
Providers have three general requirements to qualify for their role:
Get detailed information on the Qualifications & Role Requirements page.
The 2025 Child Care Complex Needs Fund application is now open. Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) will accept applications until 5 p.m. on March 5, 2025.
The fund supports eligible child care providers serving children with developmental delays, behavioral needs, and other disabilities.
There are many ways to get involved with our agency, whether you are a parent/caregiver, service provider, or legislator. Below is a list of active committees, councils, and advisory groups that work in coordination with DCYF.
Early Learning Advisory Council (ELAC)
Young people exiting Juvenile Rehabilitation (JR) facilities will soon receive healthcare coverage prior to their release from secure residential facilities through the Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) Reentry Initiative.
Seahawks players once again surprised young people by spending the day at Echo Glen Children’s Center.
Tyler Mabry, DK Metcalf, and Noah Fant kept their promise visited Echo Glen Children's Center for holiday festivities marking the second time they visited the facility, sponsored by UPower which provides recreational opportunities at Echo Glen.
Caseworkers, juvenile rehabilitation staff, and licensors were among the 1,400 staff who tuned into the unofficial handoff between Secretary Ross Hunter and Rep. Tana Senn, who is set to lead the Department of Children, Youth, and Families on Jan. 15.
Senn began by thanking Secretary Hunter and letting staff know she looks forward to working with everyone.