ZIP 98038 · Licensed center
Kindercare Learning Center 301421
At a glance
- Large center, licensed for 124 children.
- Hours 12.5 hours a day, 5 days a week.
- KinderCare: public company; majority holder Partners Group (private equity).
Company news
KinderCare, the company that runs this center, reported in a federal filing that it permanently closed 49 of its early childhood centers in the six months ending July 4, 2026. It ran 1,567 of these centers at the end of that period. In the same filing, it reported closing 7 in the same six months of 2025.
The filing is about the company. It does not name which centers closed.
KinderCare’s quarterly report to the SEC, filed August 13, 2026. Shortlist last read it on November 3, 2026.
What to know
The license is the range the state allows. It does not say which ages have openings.
What the state has found
Someone reported concerns to the state, and it found all 3 valid, most recently in September 2026. The state also cited rules at all 4 of its licensing inspections since July 2023.
See each inspection and complaint
Complaints the state found valid
Received Jul 1, 2026Valid complaint, 1 rule citedresolved Sep 22, 2026
Supervising childrenShort Term. Fix within 10 business days. Rechecked within 15.
“O345(3) Despite previously identified concerns and safety measures, an employee was permitted to assist with infant care and was observed falling asleep while holding an infant. Staff intervened to ensure the infant’s safety. The program had prior knowledge of the safety concern but did not adequately prevent the identified risk from recurring. The allegation is substantiated.”
WAC 110-300-0345(3)
Received Jan 14, 2025Valid complaintresolved Mar 17, 2025
Received Nov 22, 2023Valid complaint, 1 rule citedresolved Jan 7, 2024
Food allergies and special dietary needsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“During the complaint inspection, licensor S. determined there was enough information, to determine that the teacher did not review the current allergy list posted in the classroom / process and gave a child a known food item, causing the child to later be ill following that evening. allergen”
WAC 110-300-0186(4)
Of the 210 Seattle-area centers licensed for 116 to 323 children, 98 (47%) have no valid complaint in the last three years; 34 (16%) have three or more, as this center does.
How all 210 similar-size centers compare
Of the 210 Seattle-area centers licensed for 116 to 323 children, how many valid complaints each had in the last three years:
- None47%
- Fewer than 337%
- 3 or more16%This center
Licensing inspections
Jul 8, 20263 citations
Safety requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“o165(2)(d) During the inspection, the licensor observed a roll of trash bags placed on a children’s table accessible to children. Staff were advised to store trash bags and other non-childcare items in a designated location that is inaccessible to children. Proper storage helps prevent potential misuse, contamination, and safety hazards, including the risk of suffocation associated with plastic bags. Maintaining a child-safe environment requires keeping potentially hazardous materials out of children’s reach at all times.(Corrections made) During the inspection, the licensor observed trash bags accessible in another classroom. Staff were advised to store trash bags in a designated location that is inaccessible to children to prevent potential misuse, contamination, and safety hazards, including the risk of suffocation associated with plastic bags. (Corrections made)”
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d)
Storage of hazardous and maintenance suppliesSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“O260(1)(a) The licensor observed a liquid soap refill bag for the soap dispenser stored in an unlocked cabinet accessible to children. Children could potentially access the item by standing on the toilet seat to reach the cabinet. Staff were advised to ensure soap refills and other personal care supplies are securely stored in a location that is inaccessible to children when not in use. Proper storage helps prevent potential misuse, accidental exposure, ingestion, or other safety hazards and supports a safe and sanitary environment. (Corrections Made) The licensor observed cleaning products stored in a cabinet. Staff were reminded that all cleaning products and chemicals must be stored securely and inaccessible to children at all times. Proper storage prevents accidental exposure, ingestion, or contact with hazardous substances and supports compliance with health and safety requirements. (Corrections Made)”
WAC 110-300-0260(1)(a)
Cleaning schedulesShort Term. Fix within 10 business days. Rechecked within 15.
“O241(6) The licensor observed urine on the toilet seat in the bathroom that had remained on the seat and had not been cleaned or wiped after use. Staff were advised to ensure bathroom areas are routinely monitored, cleaned, and sanitized throughout the day to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation. Promptly cleaning restroom surfaces helps prevent the spread of germs and bacteria, reduces exposure to bodily fluids, and supports a safe and healthy environment for children.”
WAC 110-300-0241(6)
Jul 17, 202510 citations
Training requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed that one staff member’s Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) training had expired. This training is essential for safely handling situations involving exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials, especially when responding to a child with an injury.”
WAC 110-300-0106(12)
Training requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed that a staff member’s First Aid and CPR certification had expired. Current certification in First Aid and CPR is critical to ensure staff are prepared to respond effectively and promptly in the event of a medical emergency.”
WAC 110-300-0106(12)
Training requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed that a staff member’s food handler card (food handler’s permit) had expired. Maintaining a current food handler card is essential for ensuring safe food preparation and handling practices, which help prevent foodborne illnesses.”
WAC 110-300-0106(12)
Training requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed that a staff member had not completed the required Child Basics training. This training is essential to ensure staff understand fundamental child care practices and safety protocols necessary for providing quality care. 0106(8)”
WAC 110-300-0106(12)
Safety requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed that the power cords for the refrigerator and a radio were hanging from a shelf in a looped formation, creating a potential safety hazard due to the risk of entanglement or tripping.”
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d)
Safety requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed rolls of plastic bags stored on a children's toilets and on top of hand towel dispensers, making them easily accessible to children and posing a potential suffocation or choking hazard.”
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d)
Emergency preparation and exitingSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed a floor cleaning machine, trashbins and water table brought indoors and were stored near an exit door. Storing equipment in front of or near designated exits can obstruct egress and poses a potential safety hazard in the event of an emergency evacuation.”
WAC 110-300-0166(3)(c)
Food allergies and special dietary needsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed that children with known food allergies did not have completed Individual Care Plans (ICPs) on file, as required. While some ICPs were signed by the parent or guardian, they were incomplete and lacked critical information. Specifically, the ICPs were missing written instructions from the child’s licensed health care provider.”
WAC 110-300-0186(1), WAC 110-300-0186(2)
Food allergies and special dietary needsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed that for children with known food allergies, the early learning provider did not ensure that medication training—necessary to properly manage a child’s food allergy—was arranged or conducted by the child’s parent or guardian.”
WAC 110-300-0186(1), WAC 110-300-0186(2)
Storage of hazardous and maintenance suppliesSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“The licensor observed multiple cleaning tools and sanitation items stored in areas accessible to children, creating potential health and safety hazards”
WAC 110-300-0260(5)
Jul 17, 20245 citations
Food allergies and special dietary needsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“Licensor observed a child with a food allergy did not have the necessary training about specialized medication administration provided by the parent.”
WAC 110-300-0186(2)
Safety requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“Licensor observed a toilet plunger was placed on top of a plastic bag on the bathroom floor accessible to children. corrections made removal of plastic bag and plunger. 0165 (3a) Licensor observed one of the toddler table had rough splintered edges.”
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d)
Emergency preparation and exitingSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“Licensor observed the emergency exit (toddler outdoor space) remained jammed/locked from the inside when the push bar is pressed. Causing difficulty for staff and children to evacuate off the premises in the event of an emergency.”
WAC 110-300-0166(3)(a)
Storage of hazardous and maintenance suppliesSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“Licensor observed 2 vacuums were stored in the preK2 bathroom.”
WAC 110-300-0260(5)
Training requirementsShort Term. Fix within 10 business days. Rechecked within 15.
“Licensor observed a Lead Teacher left alone in a classroom of 8 children did not complete a First Aid/CPR training. 0106 (3) Licensor observed 2 staff members did not complete the child care basic trainings within 3 months of the date hired. 0106 (8) Licensor observed 1 staff member with an expired Safe Sleep training.”
WAC 110-300-0106(8)
Jul 25, 20233 citations
Safety requirementsSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“Licensor observed safety caps in outlets Licensor observed plastic bags in low open cabinets or other child accessible areas Licensor observed blinds with pull cord in infant room. Licensor observed sink & toilet in preschool room not working w/ tape on the toilet, & bathroom fans that were dirty / not operable or poor condition.”
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(a), WAC 110-300-0165(2)(b), WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d)
Emergency preparation and exitingSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“Outdoor interior gate”
WAC 110-300-0166(3)(a)
Storage of hazardous and maintenance suppliesSerious. Fix within 5 business days. The licensor rechecks within 10.
“Licensor observed brooms, and dust pans accessible to children in majority of classrooms. Licensor observed unlocked cabinet with cleaning supplies accessible to children, infant room.”
WAC 110-300-0260(1)(a), WAC 110-300-0260(5)
The state cited rules at all 4 of this center's inspections. Most Seattle-area centers inspected 4 times had fewer: 71% of 272.
How all 272 Seattle-area centers inspected 4 times compare
Of the 272 Seattle-area centers the state inspected 4 times, how many of those inspections cited a rule:
- None7%
- 1 of 415%
- 2 of 417%
- 3 of 433%
- All 429%This center
Read every record and the state’s reports
Across KinderCare's 33 locations in the Seattle area, it cited something at 81% of 135 visits.
State record — Washington DCYF
- Last visit
- July 8, 2026
- On file
- 4 visits since July 2023 — all of them cited findings · 3 complaint investigations
- Most serious
- Serious —
o165(2)(d) During the inspection, the licensor observed a roll of trash bags placed on a children’s table accessible to children. Staff were advised to store trash bags and other non-childcare items in a designated location that is inaccessible to children. Proper storage helps prevent potential misuse, contamination, and safety hazards, including the risk of suffocation associated with plastic bags. Maintaining a child-safe environment requires keeping potentially hazardous materials out of children’s reach at all times.(Corrections made) During the inspection, the licensor observed trash bags accessible in another classroom. Staff were advised to store trash bags in a designated location that is inaccessible to children to prevent potential misuse, contamination, and safety hazards, including the risk of suffocation associated with plastic bags. (Corrections made)
· July 8, 2026
Washington DCYF publishes each citation in the licensor’s own words, with a risk level.
Jul 2026 Licensing visit 3 findings
Licensing visit · July 8, 2026
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d) · Serious
o165(2)(d) During the inspection, the licensor observed a roll of trash bags placed on a children’s table accessible to children. Staff were advised to store trash bags and other non-childcare items in a designated location that is inaccessible to children. Proper storage helps prevent potential misuse, contamination, and safety hazards, including the risk of suffocation associated with plastic bags. Maintaining a child-safe environment requires keeping potentially hazardous materials out of children’s reach at all times.(Corrections made) During the inspection, the licensor observed trash bags accessible in another classroom. Staff were advised to store trash bags in a designated location that is inaccessible to children to prevent potential misuse, contamination, and safety hazards, including the risk of suffocation associated with plastic bags. (Corrections made)
Storage of hazardous and maintenance supplies
WAC 110-300-0260(1)(a) · Serious
O260(1)(a) The licensor observed a liquid soap refill bag for the soap dispenser stored in an unlocked cabinet accessible to children. Children could potentially access the item by standing on the toilet seat to reach the cabinet. Staff were advised to ensure soap refills and other personal care supplies are securely stored in a location that is inaccessible to children when not in use. Proper storage helps prevent potential misuse, accidental exposure, ingestion, or other safety hazards and supports a safe and sanitary environment. (Corrections Made) The licensor observed cleaning products stored in a cabinet. Staff were reminded that all cleaning products and chemicals must be stored securely and inaccessible to children at all times. Proper storage prevents accidental exposure, ingestion, or contact with hazardous substances and supports compliance with health and safety requirements. (Corrections Made)
WAC 110-300-0241(6) · Short Term
O241(6) The licensor observed urine on the toilet seat in the bathroom that had remained on the seat and had not been cleaned or wiped after use. Staff were advised to ensure bathroom areas are routinely monitored, cleaned, and sanitized throughout the day to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation. Promptly cleaning restroom surfaces helps prevent the spread of germs and bacteria, reduces exposure to bodily fluids, and supports a safe and healthy environment for children.
Jul 2026 Complaint 1 valid issue
Complaint · Received July 1, 2026 · Resolved September 22, 2026
WAC 110-300-0345(3) · Short Term
O345(3) Despite previously identified concerns and safety measures, an employee was permitted to assist with infant care and was observed falling asleep while holding an infant. Staff intervened to ensure the infant’s safety. The program had prior knowledge of the safety concern but did not adequately prevent the identified risk from recurring. The allegation is substantiated.
Jul 2025 Licensing visit 10 findings
Licensing visit · July 17, 2025
WAC 110-300-0106(12) · Serious
The licensor observed that one staff member’s Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) training had expired. This training is essential for safely handling situations involving exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials, especially when responding to a child with an injury.
WAC 110-300-0106(12) · Serious
The licensor observed that a staff member’s First Aid and CPR certification had expired. Current certification in First Aid and CPR is critical to ensure staff are prepared to respond effectively and promptly in the event of a medical emergency.
WAC 110-300-0106(12) · Serious
The licensor observed that a staff member’s food handler card (food handler’s permit) had expired. Maintaining a current food handler card is essential for ensuring safe food preparation and handling practices, which help prevent foodborne illnesses.
WAC 110-300-0106(12) · Serious
The licensor observed that a staff member had not completed the required Child Basics training. This training is essential to ensure staff understand fundamental child care practices and safety protocols necessary for providing quality care. 0106(8)
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d) · Serious
The licensor observed that the power cords for the refrigerator and a radio were hanging from a shelf in a looped formation, creating a potential safety hazard due to the risk of entanglement or tripping.
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d) · Serious
The licensor observed rolls of plastic bags stored on a children's toilets and on top of hand towel dispensers, making them easily accessible to children and posing a potential suffocation or choking hazard.
Emergency preparation and exiting
WAC 110-300-0166(3)(c) · Serious
The licensor observed a floor cleaning machine, trashbins and water table brought indoors and were stored near an exit door. Storing equipment in front of or near designated exits can obstruct egress and poses a potential safety hazard in the event of an emergency evacuation.
Food allergies and special dietary needs
WAC 110-300-0186(1) / 110-300-0186(2) · Serious
The licensor observed that children with known food allergies did not have completed Individual Care Plans (ICPs) on file, as required. While some ICPs were signed by the parent or guardian, they were incomplete and lacked critical information. Specifically, the ICPs were missing written instructions from the child’s licensed health care provider.
Food allergies and special dietary needs
WAC 110-300-0186(1) / 110-300-0186(2) · Serious
The licensor observed that for children with known food allergies, the early learning provider did not ensure that medication training—necessary to properly manage a child’s food allergy—was arranged or conducted by the child’s parent or guardian.
Storage of hazardous and maintenance supplies
WAC 110-300-0260(5) · Serious
The licensor observed multiple cleaning tools and sanitation items stored in areas accessible to children, creating potential health and safety hazards
Jan 2025 Complaint 1 valid issue
Complaint · Received January 14, 2025 · Resolved March 17, 2025
Jul 2024 Licensing visit 5 findings
Licensing visit · July 17, 2024
Food allergies and special dietary needs
WAC 110-300-0186(2) · Serious
Licensor observed a child with a food allergy did not have the necessary training about specialized medication administration provided by the parent.
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(d) · Serious
Licensor observed a toilet plunger was placed on top of a plastic bag on the bathroom floor accessible to children. corrections made removal of plastic bag and plunger. 0165 (3a) Licensor observed one of the toddler table had rough splintered edges.
Emergency preparation and exiting
WAC 110-300-0166(3)(a) · Serious
Licensor observed the emergency exit (toddler outdoor space) remained jammed/locked from the inside when the push bar is pressed. Causing difficulty for staff and children to evacuate off the premises in the event of an emergency.
Storage of hazardous and maintenance supplies
WAC 110-300-0260(5) · Serious
Licensor observed 2 vacuums were stored in the preK2 bathroom.
WAC 110-300-0106(8) · Short Term
Licensor observed a Lead Teacher left alone in a classroom of 8 children did not complete a First Aid/CPR training. 0106 (3) Licensor observed 2 staff members did not complete the child care basic trainings within 3 months of the date hired. 0106 (8) Licensor observed 1 staff member with an expired Safe Sleep training.
Nov 2023 Complaint 1 valid issue
Complaint · Received November 22, 2023 · Resolved January 7, 2024
Food allergies and special dietary needs
WAC 110-300-0186(4) · Serious
During the complaint inspection, licensor S. determined there was enough information, to determine that the teacher did not review the current allergy list posted in the classroom / process and gave a child a known food item, causing the child to later be ill following that evening. allergen
Jul 2023 Licensing visit 3 findings
Licensing visit · July 25, 2023
WAC 110-300-0165(2)(a) / 110-300-0165(2)(b) / 110-300-0165(2)(d) · Serious · No longer on the state’s site as of September 25, 2026
Licensor observed safety caps in outlets Licensor observed plastic bags in low open cabinets or other child accessible areas Licensor observed blinds with pull cord in infant room. Licensor observed sink & toilet in preschool room not working w/ tape on the toilet, & bathroom fans that were dirty / not operable or poor condition.
Emergency preparation and exiting
WAC 110-300-0166(3)(a) · Serious · No longer on the state’s site as of September 25, 2026
Outdoor interior gate
Storage of hazardous and maintenance supplies
WAC 110-300-0260(1)(a) / 110-300-0260(5) · Serious · No longer on the state’s site as of September 25, 2026
Licensor observed brooms, and dust pans accessible to children in majority of classrooms. Licensor observed unlocked cabinet with cleaning supplies accessible to children, infant room.
Shortlist replaces people’s names in the state’s text with initials. This is done by rule, not by hand, so it can miss a name or shorten a word that isn’t one. The state’s report, linked on each row, has the original.
What it costs
We couldn’t find it, so if you know, please share. We’ll publish it and work to confirm it with the provider directly too.
A day here
- Hours
- 12.5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Details
- Phone
- (425) 432-2855
- Address
- 22040 SE Wax Rd, 98038
- License
- PL-24240
- Quality program
- Early Achievers Level 4
We couldn’t find some information that may matter to your decision: openings, Working Connections subsidy, cost, teaching approach, ratios and staff, a typical day, and sick and biting policies. We can ask the program for you and copy you in.
Sources and dates
Where every fact on this page came from, and when Shortlist last checked it against that source. Anything Shortlist could not source is named here rather than left blank.
State record
From Washington DCYF’s published reports, last checked November 3, 2026.
Washington’s four risk levels, highest first: Immediate, Serious, Short Term, Long Term. Deadlines from DCYF procedure PRO 10.1.21.
Ages
A day here
- Hours — Checked July 2026 kindercare.com
Details
- Phone, Ages on the license — Checked September 2026 findchildcarewa.org
- Website, Who runs it — Checked October 2026 kindercare.com
- Address, License — Checked June 2026 data.wa.gov
- Quality program — Checked April 2026 data.wa.gov
- Who runs it — Checked October 2026 sec.gov/…/klc-20260704.htm
From KinderCare's quarterly report to the SEC, filed August 13, 2026. sec.gov
Large means the biggest quarter of Seattle-area’s 855 licensed centers by state-licensed capacity: 116 to 323 children. Small is 6 to 40; medium is 41 to 115.
The ages on the license are what the state licenses it to care for, which can be wider than the ages it takes.