ECE Credential
For ECE professionals working with children from birth to age 8
Need money to further your education in child development or early childhood education? Apply for a Gateways Scholarship!
Do you want extra money for completing college coursework and staying employed at the same place? Great START does just that! Get more information about how you can participate!
Are you considering applying for a Gateways Credential? Gateways Credentials are symbols of professional achievement that validate knowledge, skills and experience. They are an individual achievement that you can be proud of.
Gateways Credentials are awarded and recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Bureau of Child Care and Development. They are required for some Circles of Quality in ExceleRate Illinois and can be used to help with employment decisions in early learning programs.
Below are the Credentials offered by Gateways. You can click each Credential title to see information about applying, specific requirements, and the forms you will need.
For ECE professionals working with children from birth to age 8
For child care professionals working with children from birth to age 3
For administrators of ECE and School-Age Programs
For professionals working with children and youth ages 5-18
For professionals who offer relationship-based professional development
For a professional working in their home as a family child care provider for children ages birth through 12 years
For professionals who provide direct services to children and families, such as Parent Educators, Family Advocates and Case Workers
For ECE professionals who have formal college education, training, and experience with multilingual/multicultural children and families
Search for colleges and universities in your area that offer courses in child development and child care related topics
For colleges and universities interested in becoming entitled for one or more Gateways Credentials
A PDA is familiar with a variety of degree programs and is available to share their knowledge on how to complete a degree.
A PDA can discuss the various credentials available and lead you to resources about how to obtain them.
Yes! A PDA has extensive experience and knowledge in the fields of: Early care and education, school-age, Head Start, and Early Head Start. A PDA can assist by guiding you to resources regarding specific licensing regulations for various types of programs and positions.
No, however, technical assistance to open a child care business is available through your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Agency.
PDA services are Free.
It also provides standards, guidelines, resources, and support to help you make sensible changes that lead to better quality outcomes for children.