Human Resources

Child care & parenting

Child care at UW

Securing convenient, affordable and reliable child care is a top priority for most new parents. Start here to learn how UW supports student parents and employees with families in accessing care.

Child care centers and school-aged care

UW faculty, staff, and students are eligible for enrollment priority at designated Bright Horizons and KinderCare centers on a first-come, first-served basis. Enrollment priority does not guarantee placement, but it will move you up their waitlist as a UW priority.

In-home child care and tutoring

Increase your peace of mind when hiring someone to work in your home by using trusted services to find care and conduct background checks for you.

UW Children’s Centers

University of Washington Children’s Centers (UWCC) offer year-round care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers at four Seattle campus locations.

Child care at Harborview

The University of Washington Children’s Center at Harborview provides priority child care to medical center faculty and staff. It offers year-round care to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Child care at UW Medical Center – Northwest

Eligibility and priority details about year-round care at UWMC Children’s Center at Northwest for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

Backup care

Backup care is available at locations throughout Puget Sound and nationwide. Sick child care is available in your home 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whenever you need to attend to academic or work responsibilities.

Paying for child care

Resources and discounts that may be helpful for securing in-home care, before- or after-school care, and summer camps.

Planning for children’s summer activities

You can never begin your planning too early for summer camps, classes and other child care options -- many programs begin accepting applications for summer enrollment as early as February.

UW programs for kids

If you’re looking for a school, camp, or other program for your child to attend, UW provides unique opportunities for children of all ages and interests.

Lactation stations

UW provides many private, secure, and clean lactation stations. You’ll find them in buildings across campus and at medical centers and other UW offices.

Additional parenting resources

This page collects helpful resources for parents including medical and dental care clinics as well as other programs that help you and your family flourish.

Critical hire & retention designations

APS 51.1: Enrollment for University On-Site Childcare Centers Located in Seattle outlines a process in which appointing authorities may recommend priority child care placement for a faculty or staff member who plays or will play a key role within a unit.