The Imagine Institute

Become a Family Child Care Intern

While a career educating and caring for children is incredibly rewarding, the process of becoming a licensed family child care provider is often intimidating. Because of this, the Imagine Institute has created Imagine U, a program designed to help individuals as they prepare to open a licensed child care business.

Be part of the movement to increase access to warm, supportive, and quality child care to Washington’s children.

Become a licensed family child care provider!

HOW IT WORKS

Get matched with an experienced licensed family child care provider-mentor
Earn money while gaining on-the-job experience
Attend free training
Complete 8 Licensing Milestones that will prepare you for success
Receive financial support to complete all lead teacher requirements

Intern Prerequisites

Register in the Washington State’s Professional Development Registry “MERIT” to obtain a STARS ID and complete the following:
- A Portable Background Check
- The Education Application that meets the DCYF requirement of high school diploma or equivalent
Obtain a TB test at your local health department or physician
DCYF Licensing Orientation Module 1
Complete the Facility Feasibility Checklist
Obtain permission from the homeowner or HOA to use the home for a licensed child care business

For priority placement, join the substitute pool and register for orientation and any training you haven’t completed.

Program Requirements

Meet and follow all Washington State WAC and RCW for a licensed family child care business
Follow all local building code requirements
Complete all required pre-service and in-service training to become licensed
Complete all milestone assignments in Matrix
Work in your mentor’s licensed family child care each month after being accepted
Commit to opening a licensed family child care and serving children on subsidy