First Things First

Nutrition is extra important in those first five years of life, yet many Arizona families struggle to afford food.

Food insecurity = higher rate of stress for the whole fam = harder for kids to build strong, nurturing relationships they need to thrive.

But no matter what or where you're eating, the Arizona Department of Health Services reminds us that mealtime is a chance to connect, talk and help children feel safe and supported while building healthy eating habits.

Find free meals and guidance: https://www.FirstThingsFirst.org/first-things/family-table-mealtime/

Making friends is an important part of growing up. Sometimes that means big feelings, shy moments, or even a few tears.

Get the full guide to helping your preschooler make friends at the link in bio. 🔗

And remember, this isn't easy for every child. If they're shy or if conflicts happen, give them time and step in with calmness—like, "Let's try taking turns," or, "Let's find a different toy to play with." 🫶

1 in 5 mothers are affected by maternal mental health conditions, yet so often these conditions go untreated.

Sometimes it's hard to sort through what you're feeling as a parent, especially with the responsibility of a new baby. Have an honest check-in with yourself and call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline if you're feeling unsure.

As Arizona's early childhood agency, First Things First has resources and support for pregnant and postpartum parents at FirstThingsFirst.org.

Learn the signs. Act early. 🚼

Every kid is different, but it helps to know if your child is meeting typical milestones at different ages and stages—and how you can support their healthy development.

How your child plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves offers important clues about your child’s development. Find information to help you understand what’s happening at every stage through First Things First.

Ages and Stages All kids develop differently, but along the way, it helps to know if your child is meeting typical developmental milestones -- the things most children can d...

Save this if you have kids 5 and under! ☎️ The Birth to Five Helpline is a free service available to ALL Arizona families—real early childhood specialists ready to answer all your questions.

Call 877-705-KIDS (5437) and learn more at: https://www.FirstThingsFirst.org/program-types/birth-to-five-helpline/

How do you know when picky eating is something more serious? Swipe to learn about pediatric feeding disorders—and learn what to do when you have a concern.

As Arizona's early childhood agency, find FREE early childhood resources: https://www.FirstThingsFirst.org/first-things/babies-and-toddlers-can-be-fussy-or-picky-eaters-sometimes-its-more-serious/

Teaching your toddler to name their feelings is one way to help them validate emotions. It helps them feel understood and reassured that big feelings are normal.

As Arizona's early childhood agency, First Things First has a guide to help you navigate toddler tantrums, emotions and feelings: https://www.FirstThingsFirst.org/az-new-parent-guide/caring-for-your-toddler/feeling-safe-and-secure/