The Business Side of Child Care
Nearly 100% of child care providers are small businesses. In an industry already stretched thin by narrow profit margins, child care providers can’t cut corners without risking quality of care and education. Many providers are independent and community-based, which means even small disruptions to their daily operations can have serious consequences. First Things First CEO … Read More
Family-Friendly Policies
According to the American Psychological Association, 92% of workers want to work for an employer that values their well-being. Yet Arizona businesses lose $958 million annually due to turnover and productivity disruptions tied to child care challenges. Family-friendly policies directly address these issues, making employers more competitive in both recruitment and retention. What are family-friendly … Read More
Child care is key to a thriving Arizona economy
Money invested in early childhood development yields extraordinary public returns. Economist Art Rolnick talks about the importance of early childhood education and child care.
Raising a Confident, Happy Child
Every parent wants their child to grow up feeling good about themselves, and it starts with the little things you do each day. Between the ages of 3 and 5, your child is becoming more independent, curious and social. With your support, they can build confidence, express emotions in healthy ways and develop friendships that … Read More
Parents and caregivers learn how to best support young children
Parenting education provides parents with knowledge, skills and resources to help them nurture their child’s development.
Family, friend and neighbor caregivers show significant improvement after participation in programs
A recent evaluation of family, friend and neighbor programs found that caregivers reported significant improvement in key areas of caregiving.
Parents As Teachers study shows significant improvements for families in key areas
First Things First is one of the largest funder of home visitation programs in the state, allocating around $14 million per year.
Child care providers took a step forward with federal pandemic relief funding and now feel like they are back to where they started
The loss of federal COVID-19 relief funding with no replacement funding has left Arizona child care providers struggling.
Working toward a better system for families to find resources in Yavapai County
The FTF Yavapai Regional Council is committed to making sure families who need services are able to find a connection for help.