About

About IU Bloomington childcare services

Early Childhood Education Services (ECES) supports Indiana University Bloomington families by strengthening, coordinating, and advancing campus early learning services.

We serve faculty, staff, and students by providing clear guidance, centralized information, and leadership that supports high-quality early childhood education across the IU Bloomington campus.

Our work reflects Indiana University's commitment to academic success, family well-being, and a supportive campus community.

Explore IU Bloomington childcare centers

Contact Early Childhood Education Services

Our Mission

Early Childhood Education Services operates with a focused three-part mission that guides our work across campus.

Advocate for strong early learning support at IU Bloomington

We advocate for investment in and institutional support for early learning services at IU Bloomington. Accessible, high-quality early learning programs enable faculty, staff, and students to thrive in their academic and professional roles.

By strengthening campus early learning infrastructure, we help ensure that families have dependable options that meet their needs.

Oversee and coordinate campus early learning services

ECES oversees and coordinates university-affiliated early learning programs on the IU Bloomington campus. We work collaboratively with childcare centers and campus partners to:

Support consistent standards of quality and safety
Promote developmentally appropriate early childhood education
Improve access and transparency for IU families
Align services with university priorities

Provide a central point of entry to programs

Navigating early learning options can be complex. ECES serves as a single, trusted point of entry for IU Bloomington employees and students seeking childcare information.

IU Bloomington campus early learning centers

ECES oversees university-affiliated centers that provide nurturing and developmentally appropriate early childhood education programs.

Programs vary by center and include:

Infant care
Toddler care
Preschool education
Full-time and part-time options

Explore IU Bloomington Childcare Centers

Supporting the success of IU families

Access to reliable childcare strengthens the entire Indiana University community. High-quality early childhood education:

Supports student persistence and completion
Enhances faculty and staff retention
Promotes work-life balance
Contributes to a thriving academic environment

What is the difference between early learning and childcare or day care?

Early learning programs for children focus on education. Early learning programs are designed to build on children's natural curiosity and creativity through play activities that inspire confidence and expand critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work as part of a team.

A day care or childcare center typically tends to children's basic needs. While many include playtime and activities, childcare or daycare centers are less likely to implement a curriculum focused on cognitive and social development.