How ECE Competencies Guide Your Professional Growth in Illinois - post

Introduction

In Part 1, we explored the structure of the Illinois ECE Credential and why it matters for #early-childhood-educators. In Part 2, we dive deeper into the competencies—the foundation of the entire credentialing system. These competencies describe exactly what educators need to know and be able to do to support high-quality #early-learning environments in Illinois.

Whether you are working toward Level 2, 3, 4, or beyond, understanding the competencies helps you choose the right trainings, feel confident in your skills, and advance your career.

What Are ECE Competencies?

Competencies are detailed, measurable skills tied directly to the seven content areas. Each credential level includes increasingly advanced versions of the same competency areas.

For example:

• HGD1 (Level 2): Identify theories of typical and atypical #development.
• HGD5 (Level 5): Integrate #developmental-theories with observational data to guide practice.
• HGD6 (Level 6): Justify evidence-based practices that support each child’s learning..

Why Competencies Matter in Illinois

Illinois uses a competency-based system, meaning:

• You don’t just complete hours—you demonstrate skills.
• Training aligns directly to competencies.
• Your credential level represents what you can do, not just what you have completed.
• Competency alignment ensures quality and consistency across child care programs statewide.

Competencies are used in:

• DCFS licensing standards
• ExceleRate Illinois quality ratings
• PFA and Head Start program requirements
• Community college ECE programs
• Gateways-approved trainings such as ChildCareEd

Detailed Look at the Seven ECE Competency Areas

1. Human Growth & Development (HGD)

HGD competencies cover child development, developmental differences, cultural influences, and environmental impacts on learning.

Educators must demonstrate an understanding of milestones, typical vs. atypical development, trauma, resilience, and first/second language acquisition.

2. Health, Safety & Well-Being (HSW)

These competencies ensure educators can maintain safe, sanitary learning environments based on regulations and best practices.

Higher-level competencies require designing policies, collaborating with families, and supporting healthy habits.

3. Observation & Assessment (OA)

Competencies include ethical observation, assessment tools, documentation, data use, and family collaboration in assessment.

4. Curriculum or Program Design (CPD)

Competencies cover responsive planning, curriculum standards, instructional strategies, anti-bias practice, UDL, and differentiated instruction.

5. Interactions, Relationships & Environments (IRE)

These competencies emphasize positive relationships, classroom management, environmental design, social-emotional support, and #culturally-responsive practices.

6. Family & Community Relationships (FCR)

Skills include communication, family #engagement, culturally respectful practices, and collaboration with community agencies.

7. Personal & Professional Development (PPD)

PPD competencies cover professionalism, ethics, communication skills, reflective practice, and leadership.

How ChildCareEd Helps You Master These Competencies

ChildCareEd’s 29 Gateways-approved trainings each target a single competency. For example:

This competency-specific system ensures that Illinois educators can:

• Meet EXACT Gateways requirements.
• Fill gaps in professional portfolio.
• Advance easily through Level 2–6.

Choose the exact training that matches your professional development goal — from Human Growth and Development to Family & Community Relationships.

 👉 Browse All 29 Approved Trainings