Outcomes
The Institute for Professional Development’s programs contribute to stronger learning environments where young children develop foundational language, literacy, social-emotional, and school readiness skills. By promoting evidence-based practices and child-centered approaches, IPD helps improve outcomes for children, families, and the early childhood programs that serve them.
Program Purpose
The Institute for Professional Development (IPD) supports early childhood and school-age professionals by providing high-quality professional development, training, and technical assistance that strengthen their knowledge, skills, and practices. IPD focuses on promoting positive social-emotional development in young children and supporting effective, developmentally appropriate curriculum and learning experiences for preschool-aged children.
Emerging Language & Literacy Curriculum (ELLC)
The Emerging Language & Literacy Curriculum (ELLC) prepares preschoolers for success in kindergarten and gives them a strong foundation in oral language and literacy with this scientifically based curriculum. This program not only addresses all developmental domains with theme-based units, children’s literature, multi-sensory activities, scaffolded instruction and parental involvement but also creates an engaging environment with activity and play-based learning.
Through an activity- and play-based approach, ELLC creates an engaging learning environment where children learn through exploration, interaction, and meaningful experiences. By emphasizing language and literacy while supporting all areas of development, ELLC helps preschoolers build the skills and confidence needed for a successful transition to kindergarten.
Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) Program
The Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) Program is a strength-based system designed to support the social and emotional health, resilience, and well-being of infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children. The program focuses on identifying and strengthening protective factors that help children develop positive relationships, emotional skills, and the capacity to navigate challenges successfully.
Through assessment, individualized strategies, and practical resources, the DECA Program empowers families, educators, and professionals to build on children’s strengths and create supportive environments that promote healthy social-emotional development. You can learn more about the Devereaux Center for Resilient Children by clicking the button below.
Program Contact
Dr. Kathy Thornburg
Q106C 1400 Rock Quarry Road Columbia, MO 65211
Related Resources
Newsletter
Sign up to receive the ELLC newsletter, update your contact information, or request to be removed from the mailing list by emailing Dr. Kathy Thornburg using the Email Dr. Thornburg button below. To access ELLC newsletters from 2025, click the ELLC Archives button below.
Curriculum Books
Order ELLC books and additional curriculum resources by clicking the button below.
ELLC Out of Print Books Replacement Information
Many unit books are no longer in print but may still be available through local libraries, used book retailers, or other sources. When books listed in Book B, the ELLC Unit Theme Overview, or individual unit guides are out of print, you can view recommended replacement titles by clicking the ELLC Book Replacements button below.
Explore Related Labs, Programs, and Services
Learn more about our Enhancing Early Childhood Development, Care, and Learning Labs, programs, and services by clicking the button below.