First Steps Program

First Steps is a free early literacy program for children from birth through age 5 and their caregivers. In small groups organized by age, children and caregivers learn together through stories, songs, movement, play, and hands-on activities that support language, literacy, and development.

First Steps is based on Every Child Ready to Read, an approach that helps caregivers understand how everyday activities like reading, talking, singing, writing, and playing support early learning. You’ll practice simple strategies with your child and discover ways to keep the learning going in everyday life.

First Steps groups include up to eight children and their caregivers. Groups are organized by age so activities can support children at similar stages of development.

During First Steps, you and your child will:

• Share stories, songs, and rhymes
• Explore movement, music, and creative play
• Try engaging activities that build early learning skills
• Practice age-appropriate pre-writing and hands-on activities
• Learn simple ways to support language and literacy throughout the day

Caregivers are an important part of First Steps. 

During each group, you’ll see early literacy strategies in action and have opportunities to practice them with your child. You’ll also learn alongside other caregivers and leave with ideas you can continue using at home, in the car, at the store, or anywhere you and your child spend time together.