ECPIHE

The Early Childhood Policy in Institutions of Higher Education (ECPIHE) initiative supports the development of a new field of early childhood policy. It seeks to enhance the study of, and experiences related to, advancing early childhood policy in American institutions of higher education (IHEs). The initiative intends to establish a new field of inquiry, early childhood policy, and train leaders to design, analyze, and advocate for constructive early childhood policies driven by research and evidence-based practice. More precisely, ECPIHE seeks to: 1. Prepare individuals to assume ECP roles; 2. Develop and disseminate a core body of ECP knowledge that can prepare those individuals and their legatees effectively; and 3. Instantiate the study of ECP durably in IHEs throughout America by creating institutionalized and sustained programs, degrees, and Centers. The Early Childhood Policy Network is an on-line network for individuals interested in the design, analysis, and implementation of early childhood policies. An outgrowth of the ECPIHE initiative, the Network is designed to enhance the discussion and practice of early childhood policy (ECP), bringing together those interested in advancing their work in these areas. It provides information, policy resources, and activities that support the open flow of ideas related to implementing ECP diverse settings, including institutions of higher education, local, state, and federal governments, and public and private organizations domestically and internationally. The Network has several components: access portals, webinars, and policy resources. For those interested in more in-depth exchanges, Policy Connect creates a community of practice that focuses on advancing ECP.