An estimated 2.5 million professionals are responsible for the care and education of more than 50 percent of U.S. children ages 0-5. The potential growth and development of children in this critical stage are greatly influenced by the quality of care and education they receive from these early childhood professionals. Unfortunately, the current workforce training and support systems are not consistent across government programs. This ICF International white paper presents strategies for establishing an effective and efficient cross-sector workforce development system designed to attract and retain qualified early childhood professionals. (Contains 6 resources.)