Kids in Washington may have an easier time getting health care. Apple Health for Kids, the state’s health coverage program for children, won $12 million from the federal government as a performance bonus.

“Children do best in school when they’re healthy,” said Jon Gould, Children’s Alliance deputy director. “Apple Health for Kids prepares children for a brighter future by connecting them with the coverage they need today.”

Washington was one of 23 states to receive a bonus for enrolling more children in health coverage.

Apple Health for Kids is affordable, comprehensive health coverage offered by Washington. It was created by the Legislature in 2007 for families with no other options for affordable health care, which covers nearly half of the state’s children.

Since December 2009, Apple Health for Kids has earned the state nearly $60 million in federal performance bonuses. The bonus money was to be delivered by the end of 2012.