The Kids Behind Our Mission
First Step embraces the many differences among children. By addressing unique needs across various age groups and circumstances, we lay the groundwork for their robust growth and blossoming individuality.
Infants and Toddlers:
The Early Bloomers
We work with infants and toddlers from birth to 3 years of age. We serve families who are experiencing concerns due to premature birth, or any other situation that could cause developmental delays.
Pre-School Children:
The Eager Explorers
We prepare your pre-schooler, who may have developmental delays or concerns, for their journey into public school. Our goal is to instill a sense of pride and accomplishment in your child, nurturing them into becoming their very best.
School-Age Children:
The Independent Learners
For school-age children who require special focus, our program is designed to nurture the key skills they need to function to the best of their abilities. Our certified Special Education teachers tirelessly work with every child, providing them with the important skills they need to thrive.
Children with Sensory Needs:
The Special Stars
Children with autism and those with sensory, behavioral, and communication needs are unique, and we believe in treating each as an individual. We offer a specialized approach to serving their needs.
No matter where your child is on their developmental journey, we’re here to take those crucial first steps with them. At First Step, we serve children while paving the way to their bright futures.
Building Independence and Communication
Services that Guide, Nurture, and Inspire
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our services are meticulously crafted to echo the individual needs of your child, irrespective of their age or circumstances, promoting a sense of achievement, self-confidence, and vital life skills.
Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers
Our Early Intervention program offers comprehensive support for children aged birth to 3 years old who are experiencing developmental delays. A dedicated developmental therapist will work closely with your child and caregiver, demonstrating practical techniques to boost crucial life skills like sitting, talking, and walking.
The best part? These services can be provided in the comfort of your home, at your child’s current childcare setting, or the First Step Center – and are often available at no cost to the family.
Developmental Preschool – Early Intervention Day Treatment (EIDT)
Our EIDT Developmental Preschool program serves children ages 18 months to 6 years old with and without developmental disabilities, special needs, and autism. Programs include early intervention day treatment, transportation, nutrition, and case management. Our therapy services can be received in conjunction with EIDT for the children with developmental delays and require short- or long-term intervention.
Developmental Treatment for School-Age Children
Our School-Age Developmental Treatment program serves children who need extra attention to succeed with academic studies. Whether the individual has physical, emotional, or medical needs, we help focus on supporting Activities of Daily Living (ADL).
Our certified Special Education teachers are committed to teaching fundamental tasks such as washing, mobility, self-dressing and self-feeding. We also have onsite nursing services for medication management as well as health and safety for our clients.
We’re dedicated to bringing about the highest levels of independence in our students, continuously assessing their progress and celebrating their achievements.
One Vision, Multiple Approach
Here at First Step, we’re guided by a singular vision – equipping every child with the necessary tools to flourish in their unique way. Our methodology is a blend of empathy, professional acumen, and a deep understanding of each child’s specific needs.
Proactive Early Intervention
Our approach begins with the principle that the first few years of a child’s life are critical in shaping their future. Therefore, we focus on fostering an environment that encourages growth and development. Our strategy includes regular one-on-one interaction to cultivate and strengthen essential developmental skills. We also incorporate teaching methods that parents or guardians can reinforce throughout the week, thereby extending the impact of our intervention into the child’s daily routine.
Aiming for Independence
Preparing children for school, especially those with developmental concerns, requires an approach that goes beyond academic skills. We adopt creative strategies that promote a sense of self-confidence and achievement in each child. Our team of experts is dedicated to developing individualized programs that stimulate learning while celebrating each of their milestones along the journey.
Skills for Life
For school-age children needing special attention, our approach emphasizes teaching practical life skills. From dressing to eating, placing orders, to shopping, we guide children toward self-reliance. Our team of certified Special Education teachers exhibits a commitment to patient and caring instruction, constantly assessing each child’s progress to adapt and refine our strategies.
Customized Care for Sensory Needs
Understanding that every child with autism or sensory, behavioral, and communication needs is unique, we prioritize personalizing our methods. We train our staff extensively to cater to the individual needs of each child. We maintain a low staff-to-child ratio that allows for focused attention, ensuring that our approach is as unique as the children with developmental delays that we serve.
Start a Conversation, Ignite a Change
Every monumental journey starts with a simple conversation. Whether you’re a parent, a caregiver, or a family member eager for information or ready to plunge into our services, we’re excited to partner with you.
To facilitate this, we are pleased to offer transportation solutions for our participants. Regardless of your location, we strive to ensure that joining our programs is effortless and uncomplicated. Enjoy the journey with us at First Step Inc., focusing on personal growth while we handle the rest.
You can reach out to us by filling out the contact form. One of our dedicated team members will get back to you promptly to answer your questions, provide more information, or guide you on how to access our services.
Please note that your information is kept confidential and is used solely to provide the best assistance to you and your child.
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