RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES DURING CORONAVIRUS
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First Things First is Arizona’s early childhood agency, committed to the healthy development and learning of young children from birth to age 5.
First Things First is committed to continuing to serve Arizona’s youngest children, their families and our community during this challenging time. In order to help ensure the health of our staff and those we serve, many of our staff members will be working from home. While our central Phoenix office remains open, some of our regional offices may be closed. In those cases, you can reach regional staff by phone or email. Please visit the Find Your Region page to find the contact information for the office near you.
FIND FTF PROGRAMS
First Things First supports programs across Arizona through grants to community organizations that provide services—at no cost—for young children from birth to age 5 (before kindergarten) and their families.
Why Early Childhood Matters
90% of a child’s brain develops before they start kindergarten. And research shows that the quality of a child’s experiences in their first five years helps shape how their brain develops.
Kids with positive, stable relationships with parents and caregivers, as well as quality child care and preschool experiences, go on to do better in school and in life. They’re more likely to read at grade level and graduate from high school. They are more prepared for college and career. They also tend to be healthier and demand less from the public welfare system. These are better outcomes for kids that also save taxpayers money.
First Things More First Things
Positive Parenting: See things through their eyes
Toddlers have very big feelings and very little self-control. Understanding your child’s point of view can help you stay calm when they’re losing it.
The Parent Kit is here to help you meet the challenges of being a parent.
Positive Parenting: 5 ways to manage your own big feelings
Holding it together during high-stress moments is one of most important skills we can develop as parents.
2020 Gift Guide: The best toys and gifts for young children
Our interactive guide offers low-cost options by age and stage of development. Many are free, like the best gift you can give: quality time with you.
Top 5 tips for video chat with young children
Video chat with is a great way to help your little one build relationships and stay connected with long-distance family and friends.
Halloween Tips and Tricks for 2020
Halloween may be different this year, but there is plenty of good information available to help families make it safe and fun for little ones.
Honoring the bond of grandparents
A mom reflects on her daughter’s bond with her grandmother and the benefits that she’s watched as the bond grows.
5 things grandparents do for young children
Grandparents can play many important roles in the healthy development of their grandchildren.
Latest News More Latest News
FTF/Partner Sites
Region Stories More Stories
Developmental screening helps San Carlos boy get support to speak clearly
The FTF San Carlos Apache Regional Partnership Council funds the Developmental and Sensory Screening program for local families.
Nurse-Family Partnership helps first-time mom learn how to take of care of infant son in Tempe
The Nurse-Family Partnership program provides regular visits by trained nurses starting in early pregnancy through the child’s second year.
Quality First scholarship in Show Low helps shy 3-year-old boy socially prepare for kindergarten
The FTF Navajo Apache Regional Partnership Council funds Quality First scholarships so families can send their children to quality child care programs.