Partnering For A Strong Start For Delaware’s Children

Every child deserves a great beginning – our job is to help make this happen.

The Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood (DIEEC) improves the lives of young children and their families by providing exemplary services for the early childhood community. We conduct research that helps to advance equity and promote high-quality education. DIEEC is housed within the University of Delaware’s College of Education and Human Development.

I am an Early Childhood Educator
I am a Family Child Care Educator
I am an Owner and/or Administrator

Why Early Childhood Matters

About Young Children

Nearly 90% of brain growth takes place during the first five years of life. The first years of a child’s life are critical in developing certain functions like language, reasoning and empathy.

Delaware at a Glance

16.6% of Delaware’s children live in poverty. The national average is 12.3%. 45% of Delaware’s children have one or more ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences Score)

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Upcoming Events

WHAT’S NEW

  1. Join us on April 10 at 6:30 pm, for Welcoming All Children, a panel discussion hosted by DIEEC. View details here!

  2. Funding will provide access to high-quality, affordable childcare for parents pursuing an education at the University of Delaware. With a New $2 Million Federal Grant,

  3. Family child care (FCC) educators from across the state of Delaware gathered to further their professional development and build relationships with colleagues.

  4. Universal supports are available to ALL licensed programs Delaware Stars, the state’s quality improvement system, has undergone a revision over the past several years. A