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Impacting Young Lives in AZ
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RESOURCES & INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
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First Things First is committed to the healthy development and learning of Arizona’s young children from birth to age 5.
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
Raising a bilingual baby
Many parents cite positive research that says a second language aids brain development as a reason to raise a bilingual child.
The Parent Kit is here to help you meet the challenges of being a parent.
Use household objects as toys for young kids
To encourage imaginative play at home, parents and caregivers only have to look around the house to keep little ones entertained and learning.
Reflecting on babies and mirror play
Mirror play helps your baby develop self-awareness, part of their social-emotional development. And they love it.
Protect kids’ teeth on Halloween
This Halloween, the best bet for avoiding tooth decay is to keep little ones on a set oral health routine.
It’s scarf season! Bonding and brain building with your baby
Playing with scarves is fun, easy, and you can do it almost anywhere. Plus, it’s a great way to enhance a child’s development.
Creating a safe sleep environment at home for baby
Governor Doug Ducey has proclaimed October as Safe Sleep Awareness Month in Arizona, which aims to educate families with babies about safe sleep practices.
Celebrating the power of grandparents
Grandparents can play a very important role in the lives of families with young children. Free child care is often at the top of that list, but the benefits…
Region Stories More Stories
Quality First scholarship helps Coolidge boy become more independent
Quality First scholarships help eligible families afford to send their child to quality child care centers and preschools.
Quality First center in Peach Springs preserving native language for next generation
The Hualapai Day Care center teachers in Peach Springs focus on preserving the region’s native language by teaching it to the next generation of young…
Positive experiences at Quality First preschool impact all seven Scottsdale siblings
Scottsdale siblings received early education at Quality First preschool and their positive experiences impacted the entire family.