Redesigning the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) System with Families at the Center

Birth to Five Illinois is on a mission to shift the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) landscape across Illinois by centering the experiences of families. Where there are families, there are stories: stories of bureaucracy and systemic shortcomings, and stories of families and children thriving in the face of compassionate providers and exemplary services. We are here for it all!

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Starting July 1, 2026, the Illinois Department of Early Childhood will officially become the lead agency for a range of early childhood supports. This is inclusive of Birth to Five Illinois administered through INCCRRA.

Click here for IDEC Transition Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). Click here to email Questions.IDEC@illinois.gov.