Lancaster County First Steps

Family Fun Friday

Fall has arrived and a little exploring is a fun way to welcome the new season! Take a walk around your neighborhood, yard, or a local park and see what colors and nature treasures you can find.

🏠 What You Need: Nothing, just your walking shoes!
💛 Why It Matters: Noticing changes in nature builds curiosity, observation, and conversation.
💬 Talk About It: “Can you find something that looks different than it did this summer?”

As we mark 25 years since September 11, 2001, we pause to remember the families whose lives were changed forever.

May we use this day to hold our loved ones a little closer, cherish the moments we share, and remind our children of the importance of kindness, compassion, and coming together as a community. 🇺🇸❤️

Happy Labor Day from Lancaster First Steps! Today, we celebrate the hardworking families, caregivers, educators, and community members who help our children and families thrive.�

Wishing you a safe, relaxing Labor Day filled with time to connect and enjoy your loved ones! 🇺🇸�

Introducing Family Fun Friday! 🥳�

Every Friday, we’ll share a simple, fun idea your family can do together, because some of the best moments don’t require a big plan, just a little intention. These moments of play and connection help children grow, learn, and thrive! ✨

This week: Family Dance Party! 💃🕺
Turn on a favorite song and take turns choosing dance moves. Jump, twirl, stomp, wiggle, or make up your own!

No rules. No perfect moves. Just music, laughter, time together, and a little fun to kick off the weekend! 🎶

🏠 What You Need: Music and a little space.
💛 Why It Matters: Dancing together encourages movement, confidence, creativity, and connection.
💬 Talk About It: “What should our next dance move be?”

When our community comes together, children and families feel the difference. ❤️

At Lancaster County First Steps, we’re committed to creating opportunities that help children get a strong start and families feel supported along the way. Through our programs, partnerships, and connections to local resources, we’re helping build a stronger foundation for children across Lancaster County.

The impact isn’t just measured in numbers. It’s seen in families accessing support, children getting the resources they need to thrive, and community partners working together toward a shared vision for our children. This is the work that drives us every day! 🌟

Learn more about our programs, resources, and community impact, and find out how you can get involved by visiting our website: www.lancastercountyfirststeps.org

What a beautiful legacy Dolly Parton left behind. 💗 Her belief in the power of a book to inspire a child, spark imagination, and open new doors will continue to make a difference for generations to come!

Through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, eligible children from birth through age 5 can receive a new, age-appropriate book in the mail every month, completely free for their families.

Lancaster families can learn more and check their eligibility at https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/SCLANCASTER/

Join us in carrying her legacy forward, one child and one book at a time. 💙📚

Millions of children started home libraries because of Dolly Parton’s commitment to early literacy.

For more than three decades, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library has mailed books directly to young children around the world — creating more opportunities for reading, connection, and learning.

Today, we remember and honor Dolly for a lifetime of advocacy and for the generations of young readers her vision will continue to inspire. In her words, “You can never get enough books into the hands of enough children.” We couldn't agree more. 📚❤️‍🩹

Parents with children who will be 4 on or before Sept. 1, 2026 with family income(s) between 185% and 300% FPL are now eligible for participation in First Steps 4K. For example, a family of four making $99,000 annually or less now qualifies.

First Steps 4K provides high quality, FREE preschool in private child care, charter schools, and private schools. Check out www.Free4KSC.org for open slots near you!

NOTE: Parents who qualify under expanded eligibility do NOT qualify for 4K+ Sibling Scholarships.

A throwback evening filled with good vibes! Our preservice event was full of laughs, throwback looks, and well-deserved recognition for the great members on our team, all while gearing up to continue serving families and our littlest learners. Because when you’re helping kids prepare for success, you’ve got to keep the energy BIG! 🥳💿📚