Start Early works alongside Illinois leaders, partners and communities to advance policies that expand access to high-quality early learning and care for Illinois’ youngest children, their families and those who care for them. We’re proud to have deep partnerships and ongoing collaboration with the Illinois Department of Early Childhood, the Governor’s office and the City of Chicago, among other nonprofit partners.
The earliest years of life are the most critical for healthy development and lifelong well-being. During this period of rapid brain development, children and families rely on access to supports like early learning, health care and family services. Thoughtful public policy helps ensure these supports are available, accessible and high-quality – creating an early childhood system that provides a seamless continuum from before birth through age 5.
