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First Things Blog

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

caregiver talks with baby while feeding

Need quality child care for your infant?

  • infants

There are quality child care programs in communities across Arizona, and there are things you can look for and ask about to help you feel more confident in…

national reading month

Children’s books open a world of words and ideas

  • language & literacy

Librarian Wendy Resnik shares how bonding with books helps spark your child’s curiosity and introduces them to new words.

Quality First provides resources to help Arizona families find quality child care

Tools to help you choose quality child care programs

  • child care

The new QualityFirstAZ.com offers tools and information to help you find an early learning program that’s right for your family.

Don’t miss ‘Won’t You Be My Neighbor?’ February 9 on Arizona PBS

  • child development

The acclaimed documentary tells the story of the gentle force behind “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” and his unwavering care and compassion for…

babies sleep more when they're more active

Physical activity helps babies get more sleep

  • sleep

New research shows that being more active in the day can help babies sleep more at night. And tummy time is a great way to boost physical activity.

boy picking up toys

Chores serve as learning moments for toddlers and preschoolers

  • social-emotional development

For parents and caregivers of toddlers and preschoolers, setting new year goals offers an opportunity to expand children’s learning through everyday chores.

baby girl playing with puzzle together with mom and sister

Pediatricians say simple toys are best

  • play

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends basic toys that encourage imagination and interaction between parent and child.

Premature child at birth and at his second birthday

Why our preemie son’s second birthday was so special

  • child development

With support, most babies born prematurely will catch up to their full-term peers by the time they turn 2.

new tool for parents to find early childhood programs in Arizona

Find early childhood programs in your Arizona community

  • AZ communities

Use our new search tool to learn about and connect with early childhood programs near you.

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