Funded by King County
Best Starts for Kids Wage Boost Pilot Project
Best Starts for Kids, a voter-approved initiative, includes an investment of a $5 million Child Care Wage Boost Pilot that will provide already-deserved wage enhancements to 1,400 workers at selected child care sites in King County through 2027 and study the impact of these wage boosts.
The Best Starts project is taking action on equity problems long-spotlighted by advocates, learning more about our child care systems from on-the-ground experts, and building tools towards long-term policy changes towards countywide sustainable funding. Together, we can build stronger child care infrastructure in King County that benefits us all.
The Best Starts project is taking action on equity problems long-spotlighted by advocates, learning more about our child care systems from on-the-ground experts, and building tools towards long-term policy changes towards countywide sustainable funding. Together, we can build stronger child care infrastructure in King County that benefits us all.
Our Goals
Together, we're working towards a brighter future for child care providers and the families they serve. The Best Starts for Kids Child Care Wage Boost Pilot looks to create a stronger, more equitable child care sector in King County.
Wage Boost
Provide additional compensation for dedicated child care providers in our community
Impact Evaluation
Partner with child care providers to assess the success of our Pilot Project
Retention & Voice
Improve retention rates in the child care sector by prioritizing and amplifying provider voices
Eligibility
To be eligible for the program, applicants must:
Provide child care services within King County
Be licensed by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and maintain good standing as either a Child Care Center (CCC) or Family Child Care (FCC) provider
What is the timeline?
Stay up-to-date with the Best Starts for Kids Child Care Wage Boost Pilot program by following our progress through each phase.
Phase One: Program Development (November 2022 - January 2023)
Laying the groundwork for the program by establishing its structure, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Phase Two: Outreach and Program Application (April 2023)
Spreading the word about the program, inviting eligible providers to apply, and selecting participants.
Phase Three: Implementation, Reflection, and Adjustment (May 2023 - Ongoing)
Implementing the program, monitoring its impact, and making adjustments based on feedback and evaluation.
Learn how to apply to the Wage Boost
Join us in our mission to create a more equitable child care sector in King County. Follow these simple steps to apply for the program and get the support you deserve.
Step 1
Check Your Eligibility
Review the eligibility criteria to ensure you meet the requirements as a licensed Child Care Center (CCC) or Family Child Care (FCC) provider in King County.
Step 2
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the online application form available on the program website, providing accurate and up-to-date information about your child care services.
Step 3
Submit Required Documentation
Attach any necessary documentation to your application, including proof of licensure and good standing with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).
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