A Subdivision of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC)of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)

Our Mission

The Division for Early Childhood (DEC) of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is a nonprofit organization advocating for individuals who work with or on behalf of children with special needs, birth through age eight, and their families. Founded in 1973, the Division is dedicated to promoting policies and practices that support families and enhance the optimal development of children. Children with special needs include those who have disabilities, developmental delays, are gifted/talented, and are at risk of future developmental problems.

Exceptional Children's Week - May 11-15, 2009

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) has sought ways to promote public awareness for children with disabilities and support for special education. To that end, the second week, in the month of May is typically identified as Exceptional Children's Week (ECW). The Division for Early Childhood (DEC), a subdivision of CEC, is made up of individuals who promote policies and evidence-based practices that support teachers, related service providers, paraeducators, and families of young children with developmental delays or other disabilities, birth through eight. Each year VA DEC joins other chapters around the nation in recognizing the second week in May as Exceptional Children's Week.

The goal of ECW is to create public awareness about children with disabilities and enhance understanding and acceptance of the needs and capabilities of individuals with exceptionalities. ECW provides an opportunity for communities to celebrate collaborative partnerships, successes, and the accomplishments of children and their families with exceptionalities. The following is a list of activities offered for consideration to promote and celebrate ECW.
- Send a copy of the Governor's Proclamation to your mayor and request a city-wide proclamation;
- Sponsor an art exhibit at a local mall, library or administrative office featuring the works of exceptional children;
- Invite and partner with other organizations that focus/support individuals with exceptionalities such as United Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down Syndrome, etc. to participate in the activities;
- Invite a supportive local politician, a local business partner or a school board member to an inclusive classroom to share in activities with students;
- Present awards to local individuals who have done something special to help exceptional students i.e., outstanding general educator, outstanding principal or outstanding special educator.

Click here for a copy of the 2009 Governor's Certificate of Recognition for Exceptional Children's Week. I hope you will print and post this certificate in a prominent place as a visual reminder of the public awareness campaign as well as heartfelt gratitude and thanks from families, colleagues, and administrators for early childhood special education professionals who promote collaborative partnerships and innovative research-based instructional strategies with young children with disabilities.