How to get and use the Benchmarks and supporting resources

The Benchmarks are meant to be used by parents, as their children’s first and most important teachers, as well as other educators and caregivers. They are a tool that offers useful information about the skills and behaviors you might see in children at different ages and stages. The Benchmarks recognize that all children develop in their own way, and in their own time.

If you would like a copy of the Benchmarks, it is available here: English or Español.

If you have questions or concerns about your infant or toddler's development, talk with your pediatrician or try one of these resources:

Infant/Toddler Early Intervention Program (ITEIP) Family Health Hotline, at 1-800-322-2588 TTY: 711 (TTY relay) or visit the ITEIP Web site.
Family Helpline at 1-800-932-HOPE (4673). Live parenting coaches can provide information about child development and area resources.

Several resources have been created to make the Benchmarks useful to different audiences:

For parents:
An Introduction for Parents to the Washington State Early Learning and Development Benchmarks
English
Español

For trainers of early care and education professionals:
An Introduction to the Early Learning and Development Benchmarks for Trainers of Early Care and Education Professionals

For early care and education providers:
An Introduction to the Washington State Early Learning and Development Benchmarks for Early Care and Education Providers

We are interested in hearing from communities who are using the Benchmarks in innovative ways or have adapted the Benchmarks for their community’s unique cultural, linguistic or geographic needs. Please e-mail communications@del.wa.gov and tell us how you’re using the Benchmarks in your community!