Since its launch in 1985, the Program for Infant/Toddler Care (PITC) has been at the forefront of improving the quality of care for California’s youngest children. Created through a groundbreaking partnership between the California Department of Education (CDE) and WestEd, and now supported by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), PITC was born from a simple but powerful vision: to ensure that every infant and toddler in group care receives relationship-based, responsive, and culturally sensitive care.

The initiative began when Janet Poole, then CDE Administrator, and J. Ronald Lally, WestEd’s PITC Director, brought together an innovative team of researchers, child development experts, and media professionals to design a cutting-edge multimedia training system for infant/toddler caregivers.

Today, PITC has evolved into California’s leading resource for professional learning in infant/toddler care. Its influence extends far beyond state lines, providing high-quality training, videos, and print materials; facilitating institutes, conferences, and graduate events; and supporting a vibrant Regional Support Network of certified Infant/Toddler Specialists who deliver coaching and training across the state and country.

With a presence in more than 20 states and territories, and partnerships with Early Head Start and international organizations, PITC continues to set the standard for excellence in early childhood professional development, inspiring caregivers everywhere to provide nurturing, responsive environments where the youngest learners can thrive.

Learn more about professional development offerings funded  by the California Department of Social Services by exploring the options below.