Research & Evaluation
Supported by federal, state, and foundation funds, our research encompasses programs, early childhood staff, and children and families. DIEEC is a core partner in multiple national-level research initiatives. DIEEC also provides direct services to children and families as a federal Early Head Start grantee.
Quality Improvement System
DIEEC partners with the Delaware Department of Education to implement the state’s Quality Improvement System. We provide quality improvement planning support, professional learning opportunities, and technical assistance to all licensed early care and education programs in the state. We’re here to support you!
How We Help
DIEEC Resources for You
DIEEC creates practical tools and shares fresh ideas and inspiring stories that support your work in early childhood education. Explore our newsletters, articles and resources.
Quality Improvement Planning
DIEEC supports early childhood programs as they evaluate practices, set goals, and implement strategies for delivering high-quality early care and learning environments. A Quality Improvement Plan is a prerequisite for applying for Quality Improvement Award funds.
Professional Learning Experiences
DIEEC offers a range of professional learning experiences (PLEs) that provide the most relevant, research-based training so every early childhood professional is equipped with the skills necessary to teach and care for young children.
New Directions Early Head Start
New Directions Early Head Start (NDEHS) provides pregnant participants, infants, toddlers and their families with quality care and family services. We support families by providing the best services for them and their very young children with the goal to promote children’s success and families’ self-sufficiency through community collaboration and partnerships.
Resource Hub
The Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood is dedicated to elevating the quality of care in early childhood programs due to the profound impact of these formative years on a child’s development. Recognizing the enduring influence of high-quality early education, the institute believes that investing in these programs is an investment in the well-being of both individual children and society as a whole.
Latest News
Meet The 2026 Excellence in Early Childhood Award Winners!
In this month’s Provider Spotlight, we introduce the inspiring educators who were winners or runners-up in our 2026 DIEEC Excellence in Early Childhood Awards initiative.…
Rena Hallam Named CEHD Dean
Rena A. Hallam, a professor of human development and family sciences, has been named the new dean of the University of Delaware’s College of Education…
A Leader in Early Childhood Care and Education
Each April, the National Association for the Education of Young Children celebrates Week of the Young Child, recognizing the importance of high-quality early childhood care…
