Wisconsin’s Early Learning and Development Guidelines Revision Project In 2025 and beyond, DCF and its state partner agencies are reviewing the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS). The reason for this public review process is to consider User feedback New research in the field Promising innovations from other states All of this could be incorporated into future updates to our state’s early learning and development guidelines (ELDGs). Frequently Asked Questions What are ELDGs? ELDGs are a foundational tool for all early childhood professionals and families. They offer expectations of children’s growth and development to support learning, planning, collaboration, and assessment. They can also improve state and local systems that benefit all children and families served. In Wisconsin, our current ELDGs are the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS). The core content of the WMELS has not changed in over 20 years. Research into brain science and early childhood development has evolved during this time. Updating the ELDGs could create opportunities to increase knowledge, consistency, and collaboration, and bring partners together to strengthen Wisconsin’s early childhood state system. Are ELDGs and WMELS the same thing? Essentially, yes! ‘Early learning and development guidelines’ (ELDGs) is the generic federal term used by all states. The Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS) currently fulfills federal ELDG requirements for the state of Wisconsin. Until an official name is established for the document(s) that will fulfill Wisconsin’s requirements in the future, we’ll refer to the standards under review (WMELS) by their legal federal name — Early Learning and Development Guidelines (ELDGs). Using this neutral label keeps the conversation clear and flexible as we shape the state’s future guidance. This project will determine what document(s) will be used for this purpose in the future. Why do we have ELDGs? It’s required by federal law. States must establish early learning and development guidelines, “describing what children [from birth to kindergarten entry] should know and be able to do and covering the essential domains of early childhood development.” It's also good for professionals, children, and families. Who uses ELDGs? Implementing this tool requires deep and broad partnerships. DCF is the lead state agency governing ELDG implementation in Wisconsin. We work with many partners, such as the Departments of Public Instruction (DPI) and Health Services (DHS), along with many others at regional support agencies and in local communities. Some of the programs and services who use ELDGs and/or are looking to expand their use include: School district PreK and kindergarten Child care Head Start Early Intervention Early Childhood Special Education Pre-service and in-service instructors and professional development trainers Home Visiting Family Resource Centers Child Welfare including CPS, foster care, and kinship care Libraries, children’s museums, play groups, camps, and more! What will the review and revision process look like? In 2025-26, DCF will lead a collaborative process to revise the ELDGs, maintaining a “core team” of close partners from DPI and DHS, and an advisory workgroup representing many other state and local partners. They include: Family Foundations Home Visiting Family Resource Centers Youngstar Quality Rating and Improvement System Head Start DPI Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education DHS Bureau of Children’s Services Maternal Child Health University of Wisconsin Extension This process will build on current collaboration and find new ways to connect system partners. We will gather input from professionals who use the ELDGs, as well as those who don't but may find them useful. DCF recently conducted a national procurement process to identify a partner agency with significant experience leading statewide ELDG revision processes. That partner, Marzano Research, will be completing a literature review, exploring other states’ innovations, and leading a discovery process to gather input from everyone who is interested in ELDGs across Wisconsin. The discovery phase will result in a set of recommendations for revising Wisconsin's ELDGs. What are the next steps in the review process? Holding project advisory team meetings (see graphic above for membership) Planning and executing a statewide community engagement process to gather input on what is working well and what needs to be updated in the WMELS document and supporting materials Reporting the outcomes of the engagement process to partners across the state Determining what level of ELDG revision is needed and how it will be carried out in 2026 and beyond How can I get involved or offer my feedback on WMELS? Keep checking this webpage to learn about upcoming opportunities planned for spring and summer of 2026. What if I facilitate WMELS trainings or my staff are signed up to attend one? Partnering agencies remain committed to the foundational vision and values of WMELS. While the process is underway, professional learning opportunities on WMELS should continue throughout the review and potential revision processes. Who can answer my questions about the project? If you have other questions, please contact dcfweldg@wisconsin.gov.
