Southern Region Early Childhood Program

Southern Region Early Childhood Programs (SRECP) represent a partnership between the Illinois State Board of Education, nineteen public school districts (in 4 counties), the Child Development Laboratories (CDL) and Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The programs offer high-quality early childhood and parent education opportunities to families with children ages birth to five in the southern Illinois counties of Franklin, Jackson, Perry and Randolph. These programs encompass several grant-funded initiatives that have had a significant impact on at risk children and families of southern Illinois.

The Prevention Initiative (0-3) Program has two available options. The classroom-based program (at CDL) has a strong emphasis on parent involvement and child development and offers parents/guardians support in navigating their parenting roles and offers infants and toddlers nurturing experiences to encourage their growth and development. The home-based program (in various counties) offers weekly personal visits with families and community-based group experiences that encourage child and parent interactions.

The Preschool for All Prekindergarten Program (3-5) offers rich, developmentally appropriate classroom learning environments and personal visits for children age three to five. Half-day and full-day programs are offered in a variety of public school classrooms and at CDL. Eligibility is determined by using a Play-Based Developmental Screening, in addition to a Family Questionnaire, Home-Language Survey and Income Verification.

The Parental Training Program (3-5) encourages and supports parents/guardians in their role as their child’s first and most important teachers. The program focuses on offering support to the Prekindergarten Teachers, while providing resources to families that help them identify the importance of their role in the education of their child.

For more information on the Southern Region Early Childhood Programs, call 618-453-4271 or fax 618-453-4048.