What is First Steps?

First Steps is based on the national program Parents as Teachers.  We have a staff of certified parent educators as well as a highly trained teaching staff.  In Ann Arbor, many families come to us because they are interested in taking one of our classes together with their child.  Our classes are terrific because they are taught by an excellent, caring staff and that's not all we are.  When you join, here is what you get:

➢    Fun and exciting classes offered year-round to help children socialize with others.  Your participation fee includes one adult/child class per week, per family.  Additional classes may be added for a fee.  Check out our evening and Saturday classes!
➢    Parent group meetings to exchange information about parenting issues and child development.  We bring in knowledgeable presenters as well as providing discussions so parents support and learn from each other.
➢    Parent Educators who provide an introductory visit for all new families and are available to share age-appropriate child development and parenting information and address your parenting concerns.
➢    Screenings for your child using the Ages &  Stages Questionnaire.  This tool helps you observe your child's developing skills.
➢    Bi-Monthly Newsletters share news about First Steps and helpful parenting tips for you!
➢    Resource Network that links your family to other community services and supports.

The fee for all these supports (including classes) is  different for each session and is based on the number of weeks of the class.  Our fee schedule is found here.
Partial and full scholarships are available. There is also a 1-time $10 processing fee when you join the first time.

Are you interested in signing up?  Please click here to learn how to participate!

Please fill out the Scholarship Application and provide necessary verification paperwork.  You must be a permanent resident or have a green card to qualify.

How did we begin?

In 2001 our county received a 2-year grant from the State of Michigan to begin a program for all families with young children, birth to entry into kindergarten.  It was called ASAP-PIE (All Students Achieve Program-Parent Involvement and Education). All 10 school districts in Washtenaw County began Parents as Teachers programs to fit their communities.  You are learning about the Ann Arbor program.

Why are we here?

Because every experience your children have is important and we believe you, their parents, are their first and most influential teacher.  We work hard to continue our program because the foundation for the future lies in our children.  The more parents know about how to support their children's unique development, the more likely all children are to succeed in school and in life. 

How are we sustained?

Our families support us by telling others about our program, by participating together with other families and through their participation fees. 

Our community supports us through donations, grants and advocacy.

We also receive some local, state and federal money to support our programs.