The 2021 back-to-school season is unlike any other. With many school districts moving to in-person learning only this fall, parents who must work away from home are scrambling to find safe before and after-care options for their school-age children. Child care providers are working hard to support these families by opening spaces for children ages 5-12.
Child Care Aware of Washington is supporting families and providers as we navigate these uncertain times. Here are some resources that can help.
Resources for parents:
- Search online for child care near you
- Contact our Family Center for free help finding child care and financial assistance programs
- Learn what to look for when selecting a child care program – English, Spanish Somali
- Use our checklist when considering a child care program – English, Spanish
- Spanish how-to video on Google Classroom and other K-12 apps
- Link to local school district websites
- Learn more about how Child Care Aware of Washington supports child care – English, Spanish, Somali
- Special services for finding free child care for families with young children who are experiencing homelessness
- Our newsletter for families – English, Spanish
Resources for child care providers who want to serve school-age children:
- Link to the Washington State Department of Health guidelines for COVID-19 prevention in child care
- View sources of important child care small business supports to help your program during the pandemic
- Resources to support providers who care for school-age children from School’s Out Washington
- Link to local school district websites