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 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.

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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)

Upcoming Events

Our calendar’s getting a makeover. Check back soon for more upcoming events.

View Full DIEEC Calendar
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WHAT’S NEW

  1. DIEEC Early Childhood Educator of the Year 2023 – Nominations Open April 3

    Do you know an outstanding early childhood educator helping shape the minds of young children?

  2. Mark Your Calendars – DIEEC Celebrates Week of the Young Child

    Panel Discussion – “Challenging Behaviors: Partnering for Positive Outcomes.” Week of the Young Child Wednesday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m. (virtual)

  3. QIS Feedback Sessions – We Need Your Input

    As the Office of Early Learning has shared, the next step in the revision of the Quality Improvement System (QIS) is ready for feedback.

  4. UD Named Partner in Nationally Funded Early Childhood Workforce Center

    DIEEC and five other partners a cooperative agreement to establish and operate the first-of-its-kind National Early Care and Education (ECE) Workforce Center.