Early Learning Indiana

08/31/2026

More than 70 early childhood educators came together Saturday to learn, explore and strengthen their practice as part of our latest Expert Voices professional development session.

Led by Dr. Ryan Flessner of Butler University, the morning was filled with hands-on learning focused on data analysis, computation and the many ways young children ages 2–5 can build a strong foundation in mathematical thinking.

Showing up on a Saturday to deepen their learning is just one more example of the commitment Indiana’s early childhood educators bring to their work every day. We’re grateful for their curiosity, dedication and willingness to keep growing for the children and families they serve.

Here’s to educators who are always learning, always growing and always looking for new ways to help young children thrive.

08/28/2026

Last chance to apply!

The future of Indiana starts with early learning—and your voice can help shape what comes next.

The inaugural Civic Impact Academy from Early Learning Indiana brings together leaders to explore how early childhood education shapes our communities, workforce and economy. Across three sessions this fall, participants will connect with experts, engage in meaningful conversations and gain practical insights into one of Indiana’s most important issues.

Applications close soon. Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of the conversation.

Apply today and help shape Indiana’s future: https://earlylearningin.org/civic-impact-academy/

08/26/2026

Yesterday, the world lost a beloved artist and extraordinary champion for children.

For those in early learning, Dolly Parton’s legacy lives especially in the millions of children who have received the gift of a book through her Imagination Library. Dolly understood that a book can open a child’s mind, nurture connection and help young children imagine a bigger world.

We are grateful for the generations of young readers whose lives she touched, and for the enduring reminder she leaves us: every child deserves the chance to dream, learn and grow.

Here in Indiana, Dolly’s gift continues. Children ages 0–5 in all 92 Indiana counties can receive a free, age-appropriate book every month through the Imagination Library of Indiana. Families can register their child in just a few minutes.

Learn more and sign up: https://imaginationlibrary.com/indiana/

08/25/2026

Earlier this month, we wrapped the final session of our latest Ready to Lead Leadership Academy cohort in partnership with McCormick Institute for Early Childhood.

Strong early childhood programs need strong leadership, and investing in new and aspiring professionals gives them the skills, confidence and community to guide their teams and programs effectively.

Thank you to this cohort for investing in yourselves, supporting one another and showing up for Indiana’s children and families. We’re proud to be part of your leadership journey!

08/21/2026

The future of Indiana starts with early learning.

The inaugural Civic Impact Academy from Early Learning Indiana is an opportunity to explore how early childhood education shapes our communities, workforce and economy—and how informed leadership can create lasting change.

Across three sessions this fall, you'll connect with experts, engage in meaningful conversations and gain practical insights into one of Indiana's most important issues.

Apply today and help shape Indiana's future: https://earlylearningin.org/civic-impact-academy/

08/20/2026

Last chance to register! 🚨

Join us Saturday, August 29, for Expert Voices: Exploring Data Analysis and Computation with Dr. Ryan Flessner of Butler University.

Come explore hands-on ways to support mathematical thinking in children ages 2–5. The event and materials are free!

📅 August 29 | 8:30 AM–noon
📍 Butler University, Indianapolis

Space is limited—register by today, August 20!

👉 https://form.typeform.com/to/cSIWdO3c

08/19/2026

Join us for an Ask the Expert conversation on early childhood policy & Indiana!

How can research and evidence help shape stronger policies for young children and families? Join us on the Early Learning Exchange on Wednesday, August 26, from 1–2 PM ET for a virtual conversation with Cynthia Osborne, Professor of Early Childhood Education and Policy at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College and founder and executive director of the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center.

Professor Osborne is a nationally recognized early childhood policy and research expert who works with states and organizations to strengthen programs, policies and outcomes for young children and families.

This interactive conversation is a chance to learn from a leading expert, explore the latest research and bring your questions to the discussion.
RSVP today: https://www.earlylearningexchange.org/posts/104969052?utm_source=manual

08/18/2026

That’s a wrap on our latest Block Party trainings! 🎉

We recently brought Block Party to Evansville and Indianapolis, where early childhood educators spent the day learning, building and thinking creatively about how block play can support children’s development and learning.

From math and science to language and early literacy, blocks offer endless opportunities for exploration—and educators left with new materials and new ideas to take back to their programs.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to our partners at Purdue University Health and Human Sciences Extension for helping make these trainings possible. We loved seeing so much creativity, collaboration and, of course, building happening.

08/13/2026

Indiana’s communities need leaders ready to take action on early learning.

Early Learning Indiana’s inaugural Civic Impact Academy is bringing together leaders from business, government, economic development and other sectors to explore how they can help strengthen early learning and its impact on Indiana’s workforce, economy and communities.

No early childhood background is required. This is an opportunity for leaders outside the early learning field to bring their perspective, influence and experience to the work.

Apply today and help shape Indiana's future: https://earlylearningin.org/civic-impact-academy/

08/12/2026

Interested in how employers can help strengthen Indiana’s workforce through childcare? Join the 2026 Childcare Summit on Sept. 9 for a day of data, practical solutions and conversations about what’s working across the state.

Our CEO, Erin Kissling, will be participating in a panel discussion, and we’d love to see employers and business leaders in the conversation!

Learn more and register: https://www.indianachamber.com/event/2026-childcare-summit

Employers can’t afford to ignore the childcare issue. Join us Sept. 9 for the 2026 Childcare Summit: Building Indiana’s Workforce Through Childcare. We'll look at solutions that can help more Hoosiers get to work and stay at work. (In-person and virtual attendance options are available.)

Attendees will explore the latest data, policy updates, employer-supported childcare models, tax credit opportunities and regional examples already making an impact. Hear from state leaders, industry experts and childcare advocates on what is working, where gaps remain and how employers can help strengthen families and their workplaces.

View the agenda and register: https://www.indianachamber.com/event/2026-childcare-summit