ECE Credential

The ECE Credential is a voluntary credential that defines what a person working with children birth to age 8 should know and be able to demonstrate at various levels of training, education, and experience within the early care and education field. The ECE Credential was developed from the seven Gateways Content Areas. The ECE Credential, awarded through Gateways to Opportunity, is recognized by the State of Illinois.

The seven Gateways Content Areas are:

1. Human Growth and Development
2. Health, Safety, and Well-Being
3. Observation and Assessment
4. Curriculum or Program Design
5. Interactions, Relationships, and Environments
6. Family and Community Relationships
7. Personal and Professional Development

Three areas are woven throughout the seven content areas listed above: (1) children with special needs, (2) culture and diversity, and (3) individual and group guidance.

A person applying for an ECE Credential will need to show competency in four areas:

1. General Education
2. Education in Early Care and Education
3. Work and Practical Experience in Early Care and Education
4. Professional Contributions

How to receive the ECE Credential:

• Participant Application and Credential Supplement
• Routes, Fees, and Submission Dates
• Components and Framework

New ECE Credential Recipients.     

Please contact us for additional information.