News & Resources

Being a parent can be one of the most fulfilling experiences, but with any major commitment, it comes with its own set of challenges. The sleepless nights and the emotional overwhelm can take a toll on any parent, but this is especially true for those navigating the early days of motherhood and fatherhood.

A free guide to help South Carolina families get ready for kindergarten. Includes registration info, tips, activities, and a form parents can share with teachers about their child’s early learning and needs. Available in English and Spanish.

South Carolina First Steps is pleased to share the draft of its 2025–2030 strategic plan. This plan provides a five-year roadmap for the agency’s direction, priorities, and actions, beginning July 1, 2025.

This National Home Visiting Week, we're highlighting the individuals who directly serve the families of their communities, building relationships and creating impact that lasts. Read what being a home visitor means to them and how their passion drives their work.

Discover the inspiring journey of Janice. From her start as a licensed home care provider in Hawaii, she brought her passion to South Carolina 24 years ago to establish MEGA Child Development Center.

A Midlands academy is giving young children a strong foundation before kindergarten, with parents and educators praising its impact. At Northeast Enrichment Academy, children in the First Steps 4K program are thriving. Dalias Ravenell, whose daughter has attended since 4K, says the experience has been life-changing.

Last year, something beautiful happened in church basements, community centers, and school cafeterias across South Carolina. Parents arrived—nervous and exhausted but carrying hope: to be the best parents possible for their children. What they found was First Steps. And that hope starts with A Night to Celebrate Community. The funds raised from this event are distributed equally among all 46 counties, providing critical support that other funding sources can’t cover.

Karen Durand's dedication to early childhood education spans over 30 years, a journey that began with summer camp counseling and Sunday school teaching in her high school years. These early experiences ignited a passion that led her to a fulfilling career shaping young minds. Today, Karen serves as the principal at Saint John Catholic School in North Charleston and is this month’s First Steps 4K Leader Spotlight.

South Carolina First Steps is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 First Steps 4K program, which provides free, full-day preschool for eligible four-year-old children across the state.