Building a Stronger Early Childhood Community
The Alliance connects educators, families, and partners with programs and resources to help children from birth to age eight thrive.
Professional Growth and Collaboration for Member Educator
From research-based training to peer networking, Alliance members—early childhood educators and directors—gain the tools to strengthen their practice and inspire young learners.
Our professional development programs and events foster shared learning, innovation, and connection across the field.
Support for Your Parenting Journey
Parents and caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. The Alliance offers free, public programs that nurture family connections, provide practical guidance, and create joyful opportunities for child-directed play and learning.
From just-for-parents workshops to nature walks, fort building, and hands-on art adventures for the whole family, The Alliance offers experiences that inspire and connect.
Preschool Kindergarten Summit
A day of inspiration, learning, and community for early childhood educators. The Summit brings together local and national experts to share the latest research, best practices, and actionable strategies to support children’s thriving.
Participants can also earn Gateways and ISBE professional development credits.
Early Childhood Community Calendar
Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago announces the addition of an all-new “WhirlWind” exhibit designed to provide young visitors with the opportunity to explore the capabilities of wind and air.
Get ready to rock out with The Luna Blues Machine as they present Little Lunas, an interactive, bilingual musical experience just for little learners!
Join us for a morning to deepen your knowledge of practical strategies for designing classrooms and interactions that support regulation, belonging, and engagement for a wide range of learners.
Mindful Beginnings is a monthly outdoor meet-up for new and expecting parents to connect and share in community with fellow parents.
Get ready to kick off the school year with a night of fun, friends, and fantastic music!
Mark your calendars for the most joyful, jam-packed family day of the year—Fall Fest 2026 is almost here!
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, the Winnetka Park District, and the Chicago Botanic Garden Nature Preschool for a day of building, imagining, and playing together!
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, the Winnetka Park District, and the Chicago Botanic Garden Nature Preschool for a day of building, imagining, and playing together!
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, Joseph Sears School, Kenilworth District 38, and the Winnetka-Northfield Public Library for a morning of hands-on creativity and open-ended fun!
Bundle up and head outside for a morning of winter play with The Alliance for Early Childhood, Heller Nature Center, and the Park District of Highland Park.
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and Park West Cooperative Nursery School for a special morning designed just for young children!
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood and Historic Wagner Farm for a morning of springtime exploration on the farm!
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, BackYard Nature Center, and the Forest Preserves of Cook County for a morning of outdoor, child-directed play in the beautiful Erikson Woods!