First Things Archive

Are children born with kindness?

baby proof

Most parents want their child to be kind and caring. But are babies born with kindness or does it need to be learned? VIDEO

Our interactive guide to the best toys and gifts for your baby, toddler or preschooler

Young kids don’t need fancy toys or electronic gadgets. Simple toys and household objects are great for what they need most: quality play time with you.

Encouraging young kids to consider the needs and feelings of others

parenting

FTF encourages parents to start planting the seeds of service early with toddlers and preschoolers by involving them in family volunteering.

woman with puppet playing with toddler boy

Raising a bilingual baby

early learning

Many parents cite positive research that says a second language aids brain development as a reason to raise a bilingual child.

Father and daughter playing with household toys

Use household objects as toys for young kids

parenting

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

play

Mirror play helps your baby develop self-awareness, part of their social-emotional development. And they love it.

Boy dressed as a bear with Halloween candy bowl

Protect kids’ teeth on Halloween

oral health

This Halloween, the best bet for avoiding tooth decay is to keep little ones on a set oral health routine.

parents and young children play with scarves

It’s scarf season! Bonding and brain building with your baby

play

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

safety

Governor Doug Ducey has proclaimed October as Safe Sleep Awareness Month in Arizona, which aims to educate families with babies about safe sleep practices.

First Things Blog

Decoding Little Minds: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Children’s Behaviors