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
Find out more about Willow House’s free monthly Family Peer Grief Support Group for youth ages 3 -28 years experiencing the loss of a family member.
Join Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences for their annual celebration of our beloved butterflies as the monarchs begin their migration!
Make new friends and improve your chess game with the guidance of an experienced chess player!
Join us for the Alliance’s Early Childhood Directors’ Roundtable, a welcoming leadership community where Member School directors can connect, share ideas, and learn from one another.
Celebrate National Good Neighbor Day by contributing to a service project and exploring ways to make a difference in our community!
Mark your calendars for the most joyful, jam-packed family day of the year—Fall Fest 2026 is almost here!
Have a baby born since Spring 2026? Join us to build community and confidence as you navigate life with your new little one.
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 Wilmette Public Library for fun stories and activities in Russian that the whole family will enjoy.
Join Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant Molly Pope for four, 1-hour virtual conversations across the school year.
