Visits by Child Care Health Consultants (CCHC), previously called infant nurse consultants are required for all licensed child care centers that work with infants. This is considered “best practice” to support the health and safety of children in group care and is encouraged by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
As of August 2019, in addition to current onsite reporting to center staff, the WAC requires nurses also report their monthly visits to DCYF.
Any additional changes will be shared on this webpage.
What services do CHCC provide?
A CHCC helps child care providers create and maintain a healthy and safe environment for the children in their care. They also help providers promote the health and development of the children, families, and staff in their center.
CHCC currently provide services to centers in Washington state through monthly onsite nurse visits in infant rooms, and additional phone or email consultations.
These consultants:
- Do not offer direct nursing services
- Share health and developmental expertise
- Conduct assessments of child, staff and family health needs in relation to the child care environment
- Make referrals to community resources as necessary or requested by the staff and families.
CHCC work with families to coordinate care with their medical home and other health and developmental specialists and help child care providers address developmental concerns with families.
The CHCC also collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of early childhood consultants, such as early childhood education, mental health, nutrition consultants and Early Achievers coaches. The specific needs for an individual facility will depend on the characteristics of the facility, the experience of the staff, and the children they care for.
