For Parents
For Parents.To help you do the best you can, here’s some information, tools and resources for supporting your child’s healthy development and learning.
- Find Programs
Find free early childhood programs across Arizona
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About FTF
About FTF. Created by Arizona voters, First Things First partners with families and communities to help our state’s young children be ready for success in kindergarten and beyond.
- What We Do
  
  Our Mission
  
  How We Work
  
  Investments
  
  Publications
- Governance
  
  Board
  
  Regions
  
  Tribal Affairs
Latest FTF Annual Report highlights FTF’s work on behalf of Arizona’s generation next
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Grants
Grants. First Things First invests in strategies and programs that support the development, health and learning of children birth to age 5 (before kindergarten).
- Grant Opportunities
- Potential Applicants
- Strategy Toolkit
- Grantee Resources
Building strong families one visit at a time
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Get Involved
Get Involved. First Things First partners with families and communities to give all Arizona children the opportunity to arrive at kindergarten healthy and ready to succeed.
- Serve Your AZ Community
- Giving
- Businesses Can Take Action
Business Impact of Child Care Calculator
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First Things Blog

Information and inspiration for parents and caregivers of babies, toddlers and preschoolers

A parent interacts with her children as they learn social-emotional skills and play together.

Developing a child’s social skills through playtime

social-emotional development sharing

Sharing is an important social skill young children need to learn, but it can be one of the most challenging. Understanding the difference between sharing and taking turns is key to helping your child navigate these early learning… Read More

girl and boy holding hands

Four things to consider when setting up a playdate

play

Play dates are great for young children’s development because they help them explore, learn and develop social skills through play.

Baby reading a book

First steps in reading: Tips for reading with baby

language & literacy

Reading with your baby is a great way to help them build language skills and form a close bond with you.

Father sitting in park and playing with toddler boy

Outdoor play is important and boosts learning

play

Play in an outdoor, natural environment helps engage a young child’s senses and allows toddlers and preschoolers to exercise their bodies and minds.

Mother feeding daughter and son at table

9 tips for healthy toddler eating habits

health & nutrition

Parents know that developing healthy childhood eating habits is important, but it’s not easy. Here’s some advice.

TV time and language

The reality of screen time and language development

language & literacy

Unlock your child’s language skills with real talk and interaction. Find out why screen time is not a substitute for human connection.

girl in pink bathing suit with bubble wand

Throwin’ shade: protecting kids from the sun

safety

Discover the importance of sun safety for children. Learn how to protect your little ones from sun exposure and heat-related illnesses.

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