[2] The Institute was established to provide training for people working in the recently created Head Start program.

Previous presidents include Samuel J. Meisels, who left Erikson to become founding executive director of the University of Nebraska's Buffett Early Childhood Institute.

Forty full- and part-time faculty teach approximately 260 masters, 12 doctoral, and 60 certificate students enrolled in the institute’s academic programs: Master of Science degree programs offer opportunities for specialization in areas that include administration, infancy, bilingual/ESL, and child life.

Established in 2005, the center conducts policy research on early childhood issues in the Great Lakes region, including infant mental health and social emotional support services, services and support for immigrant children and their families, and prekindergarten early education initiatives.

Opened in January 2019, the Center offers assessment and treatment services for children from birth to age eight "inflicted by gun violence, poverty, and other pressing issues.