If you’re an early childhood education professional, you may already know how Quality First can support your early learning program. But quality care matters after preschool, too. School-age children benefit from strong before-school, after-school and summer programs. These programs are known as out-of-school time (OST) care. They play an important role in children’s learning, growth,
Category: Child Care
Why consistent schedules matter: How predictable routines support children’s success
Predictable daily schedules benefit both children and teachers. Learn how keeping routines consistent can reduce stress and help your day run smoothly, even on assessment days.
Arizona child care center licensing rules update: What you need to know
Learn what’s new with Arizona’s new child care licensing rules update. Understand key changes and what they mean for child care providers across the state.
Preventing expulsion in preschool: Why it matters and what we can do
Preschoolers are expelled at much higher rates than older students. Learn why expulsion matters, what supports exist and how to keep young children in the classroom.
Why ratios and group sizes matter in early learning settings
High-quality early learning programs don’t happen by accident. They are planned with care. As a program leader, you help shape what each day looks like for children. A key part of that plan is keeping groups small and adult-to-child ratios low. What the research says Studies show that children do better when there are fewer
Safe feeding adds to the fun of meal times
Serving meals safely is essential in child care, and a new tool helps providers learn best practices for safe feeding. Learn tips on planning, preparing, and serving food, preventing choking, managing allergies, and making mealtimes safe and positive for every child.
Where are the men? Why male educators matter in early childhood education
Men are underrepresented in early childhood education, yet their presence enriches learning environments. Hear from five Arizona educators on what men bring to the classroom, the challenges they face, and how we can better support gender diversity in ECE.
Thank you, heroes of early childhood
Dear Early Educator, May 9 is Child Care Provider Appreciation Day, and I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you on behalf of the First Things First Board and staff. Thank you for your continued commitment to Arizona’s youngest learners. You know, better than most, that the first five years shape a child’s future.
Celebrate, learn & connect during Week of the Young Child
The Week of the Young Child™ (WOYC) is an annual celebration hosted by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Since 1971, this annual event has recognized the importance of early care and education, while shining a spotlight on the needs of young children and their families. WOYC is a joyful, week-long
A warm welcome: Tips for welcoming new children and families
Four tips to help you warmly welcome new children and their families to your early learning setting.