ChildCareEd is approved as a Gateways to Opportunity Registry Authorized Entity. ChildCareEd offers Gateways-approved trainings that align with ECE Credential Competencies for Levels 2–6. ChildCareEd an IACET Accredited Provider offering online self-paced and Virtual Instructor-led format trainings. In addition, our online courses are available in multiple languages (excluding media) such as Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Urdu, Farsi, and others. Need group registrations for staff or an onsite training? Contact us at 1-833-(2-TEACH-1) for discounts and availability.
Our MOST popular trainings in your State are:
- Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Use of Safe Sleep Practices
- Shaken Baby Syndrome
- Supporting Skill Development: Children with Special Needs
- Special Needs: From Referral to Inclusion
- IEPs and IFSPs in Family Child Care
- Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases
- Health & Nutrition
- Staying Positive: Guidance for Preschoolers
- Viewing Guidance in a Positive Light
- Community and Family Engagement in Childcare
- A Closer Look into Developmental Theories
- Emergent Learning & Development
Illinois ECE Credential
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Credential is awarded through the Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Registry and recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS).
It shows your knowledge, skills, and experience in early childhood education and is often required for ExceleRate Illinois programs. Employers also use Credentials to guide hiring and promotions.
ECE Credential Competencies
ChildCareEd offers Gateways-approved trainings that align with ECE Credential Competencies for Levels 2–6. Each course is online, self-paced, and 6 hours long.
Health, Safety & Wellness (HSW)
- Safe and Sound: Creating Healthy Environments for Every Child → HSW1
- Healthy Starts: Safety, Nutrition, and Wellness in Child Care → HSW2
- Everyday Safety: Creating Healthy Environments → HSW3
- Creating Safe & Healthy Child Care Environments → HSW4
- Wellness in Action: Teaching Healthy Habits to Children → HSW5
Human Growth & Development (HGD)
- Roots & Resilience: Understanding What Shapes a Child → HGD3
- Growing the Whole Child: Health, Emotions & Early Learning → HGD2
- Recognize, Respond, Respect: Supporting Diverse Learners → HGD4
Observation & Assessment (OA)
- Tracking Progress, Shaping Futures: Observation & Assessment Skills → OA1
- Culture, Communication, and Collaboration in Assessment → OA2
- Privacy Matters: Documentation and Observation in Early Learning → OA3
Get Started Today
👉 Already have your Level 1 ECE Credential? Get ready to move to the next level!
👉 Not yet earned your Level 1? Click here to complete the 16 i-learning trainings online.
CDA Trainings:
Please contact your local child care licensing office to confirm all requirements as standards are subject to change:
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
Phone Number: (312)328-2779 OR (877)746-0829
Email: cfpolicy@illinois.gov
Child Care Licensing Website
Illinois approval information
120 hours courses
45 hours courses
9 hours courses
6 hours courses
0.6 CEUs5 hours courses
4 hours courses
3 hours courses
2 hours courses
1 hours courses
0.1 CEUs- Unlocking Creativity and Fine Motor Skills with DIY Scratch Art
- Halloween Safety
- Adding math to the early childhood classroom
- National Read a Book Day: Engaging Reading Activities to Spark a Love for Stories
- Don't Miss Out on $193 in Savings! Grab the Stars, Stripes & Startups Bundle Before It Expires!
- What are the different types of CDA (Child Development Associate) Credentials?
- Emergency Preparedness in Childcare: Creating and Practicing Safety Protocols
- Preparing for your First Aid & CPR Training
- Día del Padre
- Juneteenth Crafts and Stories
- Healthy Snacks for Dad
- Taste Safe Mud is a fun Hands-on activity for children.
- July 4th Fireworks in the classroom
- Importance of Play for Child Development
- Father's Day Is Coming Up!
