High-quality Learning
Revamp & strengthen programs to support the needs of infants and toddlers and the professionals who work with them.
Despite research that consistently demonstrates the effectiveness of early learning and development interventions, the United States invests relatively little in its youngest learners. In Illinois, the impacts of this reality are critical.
> 10%
access rate for
many
communities
Flawed funding structures & inadequate access
Statewide, there are significantly fewer early childhood slots for infants and toddlers compared to their 3- to 5-year-old peers—a result of inadequate and flawed funding structures. In fact, only 25% of Illinois’ infants and toddlers have access to licensed child care, with many communities experiencing access rates of less than 10%. Access rates fall even further when it comes to high-quality care.
Early Intervention: A Critical Service Drastically Underutilized
Early Intervention (EI) services, which are critical for children who have or are at risk for significant developmental delays, are drastically underutilized across the state.
Approximately only 4% of children under age 3 in Illinois receive EI services, although research indicates that 13% of children could be eligible for EI services.
Only 4% of children
under age 3 receive
EI services in IL.
Recommended Strategies
Our recommendations outline timely and ample opportunities to revamp and strengthen current programs and services and to make the most of new investments, specifically through accessible and appropriately funded early learning and care programs and optimized early intervention services.
Accessible Family & Center-based Care and Learning
Provide necessary early learning experiences that help infants and toddlers lay the foundation for future health and success.
Optimized Early Intervention
Ensure equitable access to EI services, necessary developmental supports that can make a difference in a child’s lifelong trajectory.
News & Resources
Stand For Early Head Start
June 11, 2025 Stand For Early Head Start Share your Early Head Start story! We’re collecting real stories from families, alumni, educators, advocates, business leaders and partners to amplify the transformative power of Head Start programs…
Raising Illinois’ Response to Approved Fiscal Year 2026 State Budget
June 3, 2025 Raising Illinois’ Response to Approved Fiscal Year 2026 State Budget Our state’s prenatal-to-age-3 coalition appreciates the ongoing commitment to strengthening child care and economic supports for families-yet other maternal health and early childhood…
National Home Visiting Week 2025
April 23, 2025 National Home Visiting Week 2025 This week is National Home Visiting Week, an opportunity to celebrate the work of home visitors who provide vital support to young children and families. Our home visiting…