Join the Alliance

A trusted partner for schools and early childhood programs across Chicago and the North Shore.

Membership Overview and Benefits

Six children sitting on tree stumps outdoors near a large tree, with some raising their hands, wearing badges with their names, in front of a brick building.

Who Should Join the Alliance?

The Alliance for Early Childhood brings together early childhood educators, leaders, and professionals dedicated to the healthy growth and development of children from birth to age 8.

If you share our commitment to enriching the early years, you belong here. Our members include:

  • Public and private schools serving preschool through early elementary

  • Park districts and community centers with early childhood programs

  • Early childhood educators and program leaders

Professional Development for Members

The Alliance provides member schools and organizations with exclusive opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow through research-based, high-quality professional development.

Early Childhood Enrichment Virtual Series: Free PD events for member educators and directors. Gateways Credits available.

Annual Preschool–Kindergarten Summit: Priority registration for members. Explore research and strategies to support early childhood learners. Learn More→

Early Childhood Directors Roundtables: Early Childhood directors of member schools convene quarterly to collaborate, problem-solve, network.

A young boy with glasses, a red vest, and yellow rain boots playing with wood and sticks arranged in a teepee shape outdoors on a grassy lawn.

Member Resources and Programs

Alliance members gain access to resources and community programs designed to support families, educators, and organizations serving young children.

Early Childhood Newsletter: Published five times a year, Early Childhood features articles from local and national experts on parenting strategies, book recommendations, child development insights, and health topics.

Parenting Speakers & Workshop Series: Stay informed about programs year-round. Members receive event notices to share with families through newsletters, websites, and social media.

Let’s Play!: An ongoing community program encouraging families to engage in child-directed, creative, free play. Members receive the annual Let’s Play! Guide at the start of the school year for distribution to families.

Ready to roll? Your journey with the Alliance starts here!

Three children wearing helmets riding a red tricycle with a bench for additional riders in a park.