ABOUT FIRST STEPS-ANN ARBOR
What is First Steps-Ann Arbor?
First Steps's purpose is to create a positive community for families with young children. We have a highly trained teaching staff who care deeply about our mission. 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.
➢ Family gatherings to socialize in informal, fun ways are offered regularly. Favorites are musical evenings and open gym playtime.
➢ Teachers who provide age-appropriate development activities and even share parenting information to address any of your parenting concerns.
➢ Screenings for your child using the Ages & Stages Questionnaire. This tool helps you observe your child's developing skills.
➢ Monthly E-Newsletters share news about First Steps and our community.
➢ 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.
Partial and full scholarships are available.
Are you interested in finding a class? You may always email us for help at firststeps@aaps.k12.mi.us.
Please fill out the Scholarship Application and provide necessary verification paperwork. You must be a permanent resident or have a green card to qualify.
Our Philosophy
First Steps-Ann Arbor believes every experience your children have is important and 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.
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How We Began
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. Things have changed quite a bit in the last 20+ years and some districts no longer have a program. Ann Arbor Public Schools are proud to say we do!
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