Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education in Indiana includes all children from birth to age 8, although often it ends upon a child's entry into kindergarten. Programs include Licensed Centers, Licensed Homes and Unlicensed Registered Child Care Ministries, all of which have oversight by the Bureau of Child Care. The Indiana Department of Education supports the care of young children through various initiatives including: The Foundations to the Indiana Academic Standards, the Indiana Birth to Age 5 Literacy Framework and the ISTAR-KR Assessment.

Foundations to the Indiana Academic Standards

The Foundations to the Indiana Academic Standards for Young Children from Birth to Age Five have been developed by individuals with expertise in children ages birth to 5. The Foundations are based on the latest national research and findings for all content areas and domains. By outlining specific skills and concepts and giving examples of instructional strategies, these foundations will support teachers, parents, and caregivers as they develop appropriate experiences for young children to help ensure success in kindergarten. The most recent version, updated in February 2012, is available below.

• Indiana Foundations (February 2012)
• Video: Foundation to the Indiana Standards, Introduction
• Video: Foundation to the Indiana Standards, Birth to Three Years
• Video: Foundation to the Indiana Standards, Three to Five Years

Resources for Parents and Families

• Five Domains of School Readiness
• Indiana State Transition Initiative for Children and Families
• National Association for the Education of Young Children: Promoting Excellence in Early Childhood Education