FIRST THINGS FIRST

At First Things First, we’ve seen the positive outcomes of prioritizing programs and resources that support young children and their families. Quality early education for babies, toddlers and preschoolers helps set a strong foundation for later success in school and in life.?But early childhood isn't just a family matter—it's everyone's business. What if one investment could strengthen families, improve schools, build a stronger workforce and boost Arizona’s economy? Nobel Prize-winning economist James Heckman found that every $1 invested in quality early childhood programs generates $4 to $16 in returns. The earlier we act to support early childhood, the greater the impact—for kids, families, businesses and communities.

Super excited to see our friends at FIRST THINGS FIRST today at Glendale Chamber of Commerce - Arizona’s Business Over Breakfast. Having quality affordable childcare helps us become workforce ready so the workforce can get to work. Did you know Arizona’s economy loses $4.75 billion annually due to lack of quality and affordable childcare? Many families spend 12-32% of their income on childcare and infant childcare costs more than state college tuition. We are thrilled to welcome First Things First, our meeting sponsor, to the Hats Contest & Lunch. They are Arizona’s early childhood agency, committed to the healthy development and learning of young children from birth to age 5. Come join us April 1 at thee Hats Contest & Lunch. Registration link in comments.

Representatives from the tribal gaming industry in Arizona recently gathered at a Tribal Child Care Forum hosted by First Things First to discuss child care challenges for their workforce. One pain point discussed was finding extended hours of child care support in an industry that runs 24 hours a day. Coming together to address solutions not only strengthens our community but also improves the lives of families. https://lnkd.in/gDRvqC2M

As child care providers and early educators, working with challenging behavior can be a difficult part of your role. Michelle Bortz, a Quality First assessor with Southwest Human Development, shares field-tested behavior management tips on the Quality First Blog. Read here: https://bit.ly/3DAlW1C Here are four strategies to help you create a positive classroom environment and manage behaviors effectively ?? Start with acknowledging emotions—instead of dismissing their emotions with an "I'm busy" or "you're okay," respond to their big feelings with comfort and reassurance such as,"I like how you're sharing your thoughts with me." ?? Use positive phrases as opposed to calling out misbehavior—think, "let's use walking feet" instead of "stop running." ?? Reduce waiting time between transitions with songs or games, and prep the classroom activities before kids arrive. Lastly, provide plenty of active play to help support childrens' development

One thing about FIRST THINGS FIRST staff—grit and passion fuel every effort to create a better future for young children in Arizona. We're celebrating Senior Regional Director Annette Sutfin, MNLM, CVA for being selected for the 2025 The National Association of State Leaders in Early Education (NASLEE) Leadership Academy, an opportunity to collaborate with early childhood leaders from across the country to strengthen organizational capacity in support of early education programs and policy. NASLEE’s mission is to connect, empower, and amplify the collective influence of state early childhood leaders to drive meaningful change for young children. We're looking forward to the valuable insights and strategies Annette will gain as she continues championing early learning initiatives in Arizona.

Supporting our youngest Arizonans also means supporting our working families. There are currently more than 2,500 children that need child care assistance that are currently on the waitlist. Without some assistance, working families may not have the opportunity to hold down a job. This also continues to add to the struggles businesses face when trying to retain quality talent. ? https://lnkd.in/djA8yaG4

Today's infants, toddlers and preschoolers are tomorrow's young adults graduating and interviewing for jobs—early childhood plays a critical role in the success of Arizona's economic and workforce development. Social Venture Partners Arizona hosted an insightful State of Education in Arizona event with panelists including our very own Chief External Affairs Officer, Angela Rabago. Collaboration and partnership across the education continuum, from early to post-secondary education, reinforces our collective responsibility for building solid foundations for generations to come.

Arizona is among the 38 states where child care is more than college tuition in an analysis conducted by the Economic Policy Institute. The average annual cost of infant care in Arizona is $15,625—that’s $3,654 (30.5%) more per year for in-state tuition at ASU, UofA or NAU. ?? ?? ?? Working families deserve access to affordable, high-quality child care that helps their children thrive. Our future depends on it.

Great leaders inspire, uplift and create lasting change. That’s exactly what Steve Peru, MPA our Vice Chair of the Board, has done throughout his career—and we’re beyond proud to celebrate his latest achievement. Peru was recently honored with the John J. DeBolske Professional Excellence Award from the Arizona City/County Management Association (ACMA), a recognition given to city and county managers who demonstrate the highest level of professional excellence and impact. His leadership in Coconino County has shaped communities and set the standard for public service. Join us in congratulating Steve Peru on this well-earned honor!

According to a recent report commissioned by the Arizona Commerce Authority, child care demand in Arizona is expected to grow by up to 32% in the next decade. Access is already out of reach for many families—especially those with infants and toddlers, parents working non-traditional hours, rural families and children with special needs. The workforce impact is massive: 71% of Arizona parents with young children have missed work due to child care issues, costing employers $829 million annually in lost productivity. So, what can we do? The report highlights key strategies to build a sustainable, high-quality child care system: ?? Employer investment. Businesses can subsidize child care for employees and invest in expanding child care supply. ?? Public-private partnerships. A local impact investment fund can allow employers to reserve child care slots while increasing availability. ?? School district support. Expanding early childhood education and before- and after-school care. ?? Municipal leadership. Connecting local officials and employers to align on child care expansion efforts. Read more about the report: https://lnkd.in/g-RJGW8X