Welcome to DEC. . . Welcome Home!
The Division for Early Childhood is your professional home. By joining DEC, you join hundreds of early intervention/early childhood special education professionals across the world who share your passion for promoting policies and practices that result in enhanced outcomes for young children with disabilities and their families!
DEC is the voice for early intervention/early childhood special education. Your professional voice. Joining the Division for Early Childhood gives you the opportunity to engage in advocacy conversations that matter to you!
DEC is also the home of the DEC Recommended Practices, which support the implementation of evidence based practices across the field of early intervention and early childhood special education.
Take a moment to browse some specific DEC member benefits below.
Why DEC?
Opportunities to interact, collaborate, and communicate with a multidisciplinary group who understands the work you do.
Access to professional development opportunities such as webinars, conferences, and learning decks.
Advocacy opportunities to influence legislation at federal, state and local levels.
Membership includes a wide array of evidence-based resources to help you get the best out of your work in early intervention/early childhood special education.
Join Today!
To become a member of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) you first need to become a member of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and choose DEC as one of CEC’s Special Interest Divisions.
A NETWORK OF SUPPORT
Connect with colleagues to learn more about early intervention and early childhood special education. Join DEC Collaborate to participate in discussion groups & forums with other professionals and family members.
LOCAL CONNECTIONS
DEC Subdivisions connect members with colleagues in state and provincial groups that offer resources and support related to local interests. Visit DEC's Subdivisions Page to learn about opportunities in your state.
OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE EXPERTISE
Use DEC as a forum to share your research findings, present intriguing new ideas, and disseminate your work. Share your knowledge at the annual conference, regional training events, and in DEC publications.
POLICY & ADVOCACY
DEC members have a voice in public policy. Receive updates on legislation, take advantage of opportunities to engage in advocacy efforts, and become involved in shaping policy that affects young children and families.