Certain experiences or conditions are associated with educational disadvantage upon entry into kindergarten. The South Carolina First Steps Board of Trustees has identified a set of risk factors as those most likely to affect school readiness.

Understanding First Steps' purpose and its relationship with the Early Childhood Advisory Council is key to envisioning our goals.

This essential resource covers everything families need to know about First Steps 4K, from our goals and policies to our curriculum and approach to school-family partnership. The handbook also includes the 2022-2023 First Steps 4K calendar.