Professional Development
Illinois AEYC supports early childhood educators in advancing their knowledge, skills, and practice to ensure high-quality learning experiences for all young children. Visit our events calendar to stay up to date on professional development through Illinois AEYC.
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
https://www.naeyc.org/events/trainings-webinars
IRIS Center
Hosts a comprehensive library of free, interactive, self-paced training modules and webinars on evidence-based practices in special education and early intervention. Participants can explore modules on topics like behavior, accommodations, assessment, and family partnerships and earn certificates of completion for professional learning hours.
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Learning Library
Offers on-demand professional learning opportunities through free and member-only webinars, podcasts, toolkits, and courses. Topics include inclusive practices, instructional strategies, legal/ethical updates, and supports across the birth–21 spectrum. Many sessions feature nationally recognized experts in the field of special education.
Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules (AFIRM)
Provides free, self-paced online modules designed to help practitioners, families, and educators learn how to plan, use, and monitor evidence-based practices for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Modules include step-by-step strategies, interactive activities, and downloadable resources for immediate classroom or program use.
Understood
A nonprofit organization that offers free online professional development resources, articles, and webinars to help educators, caregivers, and specialists support children with learning and attention issues. Topics include executive functioning, dyslexia, ADHD, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and strategies for building inclusive environments.
Illinois SLD (Specific Learning Disability) Support Project
Provides statewide professional development, consultation, and resources to support early childhood professionals and families of young children with disabilities. Offerings include free workshops, webinars, conferences, and training sessions covering topics such as inclusion, evidence-based practices, and family engagement, often tailored for Illinois early childhood educators and specialists.