In this Day in the Life video, follow Child Care Licensor Lisa Mills Rodney as she visits the Squaxin Island Child Development Center in Shelton, Washington.   

Every day in the life of a Child Care Licensor, they are supporting providers and keeping children safe. 

Latest data shows JR frontline staff turnover rate is now down to 22.8%.

A total of 11 DCYF-reviewable critical incidents were reported in the second quarter of 2026.

The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) has released its latest critical incident data, which shows a continued decline in the number of child fatalities and near fatalities compared to the previous year.

The Dual Language Designation program is a formal way to recognize early learning programs that support children learning in more than one language. The program has recently undergone some changes to make it easier for early learning programs to participate. 

Key updates:

Many communities across the state are experiencing the effects of the statewide wildfire emergency including property loss, evacuation notices, road closures, and poor air quality.

Residential private schools in Washington are now required to be licensed by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).