About IDEC
The Illinois Division for Early Childhood (IDEC) brings DEC’s vision to life here in Illinois by connecting professionals, families, and advocates across the state. Our members gain access to high-quality professional development, evidence-based resources, and discounts on conferences and learning opportunities. We also create space to collaborate, network, and engage in advocacy efforts that advance equity and inclusion for all children.
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To cultivate a society where inclusion and belonging is a lived reality for young children and their families across a diverse diaspora that embraces, celebrates, and empowers them to be actively engaged in their communities.
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It is the collective responsibility of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) of the Council for Exceptional Children to center the needs and realities of those who are most negatively impacted by systemic inequity. We advance and shape leadership, research, policy, and practice that supports, engages, and informs those who care for, educate, and work on behalf of young children with or at risk for developmental delays and disabilities.* DEC works to identify, interrogate, and dismantle systemic inequities so that young children and their families thrive.
*Children with diverse learning and developmental needs include those with disabilities, developmental delays, those who are gifted or talented, and those who may be at risk for future developmental challenges.
