Find child care, preschool, and early learning resources for your family.
Fill out our Interest Form to get started.
Early Learning and Preschool options for families in Whatcom County
If you’re looking for preschool or other early learning options for your child, Opportunity Council offers a range of early learning options for families with children from 12 months through 5 years. We operate programs directly and partner with local school districts to help families find the right place for their children to play, learn and explore.
If you’re unsure which option is right for your family, contact us now for help understanding your options.
Getting Started with Preschool and Early Learning
Opportunity Council offers both school-day preschool programs and full-day, year-round early learning options in Whatcom County. We can also help families explore additional child care options across Northwest Washington.
Not sure where to start? Contact us and we’ll help you find the best option for your family.
Need help right away? Call the Child Care Aware NW Family Call Center at 1-800-446-1114.
Full-day, year-round early education
Opportunity Council operates two full‑day, year‑round early learning centers in Bellingham. Children may attend up to 10 hours per day, with classrooms offering a mix of Early Head Start, Head Start, ECEAP, and tuition‑based enrollment. Centers are open 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Laurel Forest Early Learning Center (Downtown Bellingham)
- Toddlers (18–35 months): Early Head Start only
- Preschool (3–5 years): Head Start and tuition
Cedar Commons Early Learning Center (North Bellingham)
- Toddlers (12–29 months): Tuition only
- Preschool (30 months–5 years): ECEAP and tuition
School day preschool programs (ages 3–5)
Head Start Preschool
Opportunity Council operates Head Start preschool classrooms for children ages 3–5 in several locations throughout Whatcom County.
Locations:
- Birches – West Bellingham (Birchwood neighborhood)
- Heather Commons – North Bellingham (Meridian neighborhood)
- Silver Beach – East Bellingham (Silver Beach neighborhood)
- Mt. Baker – Kendall area (East Whatcom Regional Resource Center)
Other school-based preschool
Opportunity Council partners with local school districts to provide ECEAP preschool services. Families living within these districts should apply directly through their school district’s preschool or transitional kindergarten program.
Participating districts and sites:
Other Child Care Programs
Committed to a community that supports children and families at all stages, Opportunity Council helps families find childcare that meets their needs no matter what their income.