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 peersa result of inadequate and flawed funding structuresIn 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 

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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. 

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News & Resources

Reflections From the Coalition on ISBE’s FY24 ECBG RFP Process

29 June 2023
Posted in

Raising Illinois asks our program partners for their perspectives on the FY24 ECBG RFP process

Spring 2023 Legislative Wrap-Up

09 June 2023
Posted in ,

Spring Legislative Wrap-Up Major strides, but some setbacks, for infants, toddlers, and expecting families at the General Assembly In the early morning of Saturday, May 27, the 103rd General Assembly adjourned this year’s spring legislative session.…

Raising Illinois’ Response to the Approved Illinois Fiscal Year 2024 State Budget

30 May 2023
Posted in ,

Raising Illinois applauds the General Assembly for approving an FY24 budget aligned with Smart Start Illinois

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