Our innovative programs are nationally recognized and locally relevant: we bring together cutting-edge expertise with a real understanding of what it takes to make a difference in the lives of Chicago-area children.
Annual Events
Opening Minds: The Chicago Early Education, Child Care and School-Age Conference - January 22-24, 2009
Opening Minds is the largest early childhood conference in the region. Over 5,000 early childhood professionals come together each year to get real world advice from experts in the field, make connections, and grow professionally. The three-day event is the largest event of its type in the region and one of the largest in the country. CPDUs, CEUs for Social Workers, Early Intervention and In-Service Training credits are available. For information on this year's upcoming conference, click here.
Head to Toe: The Midwest Interactive Infant-Toddler Conference
Featuring the nation's experts in infant-toddler learning and care, "Head to Toe" brings together more than 500 early childhood professionals and civic and social community leaders for a day of more than 20 workshops. Past topics included easing transitions, managing challenging behavior, music & movement, social & emotional development, and continuity of care. For information on this year's upcoming conference, click here.
Annual Meeting & Brunch
Members and thier guests enjoy brunch and conversation while we celebrate and reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and present the Service to Chicago Metro AEYC Awards. This is a networking opportunity, and a chance to discuss topical issues in the field of early education.
Great Expectations Institute
Part of the Illinois State Board of Education’s Division of Early Childhood’s comprehensive quality assurance initiative, the Great Expectations Summer Institute is a collaborative initiative designed to enhance the educational opportunities for young children enrolled in community based preschool settings through a combination of professional development and follow–up program consultation. Institutes are designed to provide a “beyond the basics” understanding of curriculum for selected applicants.
Basic Skills Training Course
The Bilingual Basic Skills Test Preparation Course will prepare students for the Illinois Basic Skills Exam. This course is designed to help students achieve a better understanding of the content and context of the Illinois Basic Skills Examination. The course will thoroughly review and teach the core information in each subject area tested, with added emphasis on test-taking strategies and test-taking time management. Each student is allowed to ask questions in a supportive, friendly, nurturing environment. Discussion is channeled as needed to address the specific concerns of students. For a calendar of upcoming trainings, click here.
Spring/Fall Events
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To request a list of past events, or to suggest ideas for new ones, please contact us.
If you would like to exhibit at an event, please click here.
