Kids' potential, our purpose

Every day we are honored to take action that inspires the world to discover, love and nurture the greatness in all children.



What we do

We at the Department of Early Learning (DEL) strive to help create safe, healthy, nurturing learning experiences for all Washington children. Our work focuses on the earliest years in children’s homes, child care, school programs and communities. We offer information and resources for children's first and most important teachers—parents—as well as others who care for and teach young children. Learn more...



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DEL Blog

Questions and answers about the proposed Washington Preschool Program 1/26/12
The Department of Early Learning (DEL) has received several questions from child care providers and others about a bill that is being considered in the Legislature. This is House Bill 2448, also called the High-Quality Early Learning Act of 2012, and moves forward the recommendations of a legislatively required work group about how to phase in a high-quality, voluntary preschool program to help children get ready for success in school and life. Read more >

Washington State's Licensed Child Care Information System
In the News


Upcoming Events
  • Public hearings on proposed rule changes
    February 7, 2012
    February 11, 2012

  • ESIT IDEA Part C Public Participation Notice
    March 8, 2012
    March 27, 2012

  • Pierce County Association for the Education of Young Children Pre-Conference: From Administrator to Innovator
    February 29 - March 2, 2012

  • Pierce County Association for the Education of Young Children Conference: As a Teacher Grows
    March 3, 2012

  • >> Go to all events...