Illinois Child Care Assistance Program

08/27/2026

Early Childhood Home Visiting is a FREE, voluntary program that provides support, encouragement, and resources for families during pregnancy and throughout a child’s first five years.

Whether you’re expecting a baby, have questions about your child’s development, or are looking for extra parenting support, trained Home Visitors are here to help. They can answer questions, share child development information, and connect your family with healthcare and community resources.

To learn more about home visiting and to find a program near you, visit the link below.
https://idec.illinois.gov/forparents/home-visting-.html

08/25/2026

08/19/2026

Did you know that Early Intervention (EI) is a free federal program that helps infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) who have a disability, developmental delay, or are at risk for developmental delays?

Early Intervention provides support and services to help children reach important developmental milestones while empowering families with the tools and resources they need to support their child’s growth and learning.

Research shows that early support can improve long-term outcomes and may reduce the need for special education services later on.

Wondering if your child is eligible? A FREE Early Intervention screening can help determine if your child may benefit from services.
https://idec.illinois.gov/forparents/early-intervention.html

08/17/2026

Parents remain the most important influence for their children from birth through young adulthood. One of the most important decisions you can make for your children is the type of early care and education they receive. While location, cost, and availability are all critical factors, the quality of the program needs to be a primary consideration.

Visit the Illinois Cares for Kids website to find a program near you!
https://www.illinoiscaresforkids.org/provider-search/

08/13/2026

Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) partners with child care providers throughout Illinois and the Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies to help families access affordable, quality child care.

IDEC supports services for families looking for care including free referrals to child care providers, consumer education information, Head Start/Early Head Start, and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).

Contact IDEC’s customer service for questions.

Starting July 1, 2026, the Illinois Department of Early Childhood will officially become the lead agency for Child Care Licensing, Head Start State Collaboration Office Grant, Home Visiting, Early Intervention and the Child Care Assistance Program, Early Childhood Block Grant, and a range of other e...

08/11/2026

Preschool starts long before the first day of class!

Did you know you’re already helping your child get ready for preschool through everyday activities? Reading together, practicing routines, encouraging independence, and playing all help build the skills your child needs to succeed.

Starting preschool is a big milestone for both children and parents, but a little preparation can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Learn ways to help your child get ready for their next big adventure!

Here’s a crash course to help your child get ready for that next big adventure, so they can do well in preschool and beyond. Did you know that you can help your child start getting ready for preschool even before they ever even step foot in a classroom? Starting preschool is a big change, both for...

08/03/2026

Child care can be costly. The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can help you pay for it.

The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible families to pay for child care for children up to age 13 while they are working or attending school. Eligibility depends on the age of children, family income, and your schedule.

Applying for CCAP for the first time is easier than ever before with the Digital CCAP Application! Get started today!
https://idec.illinois.gov/forparents/child-care-assistance-program.html

Administered by Illinois Department of Early Childhood

07/27/2026

On July 1, 2026, the Illinois Department of Early Childhood officially began administering the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) as well as many other early childhood programs across Illinois.

Here’s to a new chapter for early childhood in Illinois and to the bright future ahead!
https://idec.illinois.gov/forproviders/ccap.html