Programs

Parents as Teachers/ Family Strengthening

 

This nationally recognized program is designed to foster parenting skills, job skills, and family literacy for parents of children ages 0-5.  Certified parent educators work with high-need families to enhance skills and knowledge in an in-home setting.  Group meetings are also offered with special topics and group discussions.
 

Library Outreach

This award winning program provides interactive storytelling for four-year-olds in the county.  This effort provides a model for childcare staff as well as a positive experience for those participating.  The children will each be given one book per month which they can then take home to 'read' to their families.  A total of 9 books per child is the goal.  Currently over 400 children are participatng.

 

 

Nutrition Program

Working to improve the nutritional needs of children is the focus of this program.  A professional nutritionist provides counseling to families, childcare centers and schools.  This program is designed to educate children, families and teachers on the benefits of improved health through diet and exercise.

Center Staff Training
And Development

The purpose of this program is to raise the quality of childcare in the county in childcare centers, homes and faith-based centers.  First Steps will provide enhancement funds, technical assistance and scholarship supplements for enrollees in the TEACH Program.  First Steps is also teaming up with Newberry Adult Education to offer affordable, convenient, continuing education classes for the county's childcare workers.
 

 

 

 

 

 Countdown to Kindergarten

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  South Carolina First Steps’ nationally-recognized school transition initiative, Countdown to Kindergarten, is designed to successfully bridge SC’s most at-risk kindergarteners into the rigors of the K-12 school environment. Through this program, parents and the community realize the importance of preparing children for confident school entry and academic success.