Washington state is a leader in Outdoor Nature-Based (ONB) child care programs. These programs provide care mostly outdoors for children when school is not in session.
ONB programs serve:
- Preschool-age children
- School-age children
- Mixed-age groups (preschool and school-age together)
Care is offered for less than 24 hours a day.
DCYF currently licenses more than 20 ONB programs. For questions about Outdoor Nature-Based child care licensing, email
dcyf.outdoornaturebasedchildcare@dcyf.wa.gov.
Program Participation and Support
ONB programs can take part in:
- Early Achievers
- ECEAP
- Child care subsidy programs, including Working Connections Child Care
Tribal programs may offer ONB care through an agreement with DCYF.
ONB programs may also apply for grants that are available to all licensed child care providers.
What does an ONB Program Look Like?
You can watch a video that shows ONB programs across Washington state:
- Voices of Success - Nature's Classroom
- Outdoor Nature-Based child care
- Outdoor Nature-Based Facilities - YouTube
Getting Licensed
If you want to operate an ONB program, you must complete a licensing orientation.
Visit the DCYF training website and complete the Licensing Orientation for Outdoor Nature-Based Providers” course.
Use of Indoor Spaces
ONB programs may use indoor spaces only for basic needs, such as:
- Toileting
- Handwashing
If a program wants to use indoor spaces for learning activities, it must apply for a child care center or family home child care license.
If you are thinking about using indoor spaces for reasons other than basic needs, email dcyf.outdoornaturebasedchildcare@dcyf.wa.gov for help choosing the correct orientation.
