The Baltimore City Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC) is a diverse group of early childhood educators, service providers, funders, public agencies, researchers, community advocates, and families — all working together to support young children and their caregivers.
We’re united by a shared commitment: to help Baltimore’s children — from before birth through age five — grow up healthy, supported, and ready to learn. Our members share knowledge, connect resources, and advocate for stronger policies and better outcomes for families across the city.
Raising a young child can be joyful — and challenging.
You don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need help with child care, parenting support, housing, or other essentials, there are trusted services in Baltimore here for you. We’re here to help you find what your family needs, when you need it.
Your child’s early years — from birth to age five — are a time of incredible growth, especially in the brain.
Loving relationships, safe environments, and good health all support your child’s development. From checkups and nutrition to mental health and early intervention, there are resources in Baltimore to help your child thrive every step of the way.
You are your child’s first and most important teacher.
Everyday moments — like talking, reading, playing, and listening — help build the skills your child needs for school and life. School readiness means more than ABCs; it includes confidence, curiosity, and strong relationships.
Baltimore has programs and tools to support you in getting your child ready to learn — from birth through kindergarten.
The ECAC believes that every child deserves a strong start — and that systems should work better for families.
We advocate for stronger support for young children and their caregivers by sharing knowledge, raising awareness, and bringing community voices to the table. Together, we aim to influence decisions that improve early learning, health, and family well-being across Baltimore.
The Baltimore City Early Childhood Advisory Council is committed to ensuring that all Baltimore City children enter school ready to learn.