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Illinois Subdivision of the Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children 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 or talented and are at risk of future developmental problems. Recommended Practices The DEC Recommended Practices were developed to provide guidance to practitioners and families about the most effective ways to improve the learning outcomes and promote the development of young children birth through age 5 who have or are atrisk for developmental delays or disabilities.