Why 0-5?

The science is clear: 90% of a child’s brain develops by age five (Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University). By age four, roughly 85% of the brain’s core structure is in place—forming the critical foundation for how a child learns, behaves, and grows throughout life.

Early experiences—whether nurturing or stressful—have a profound impact on a child’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development.

At Richland First Steps, we believe school readiness begins at birth—and research supports it. High-quality support during the first five years leads to better outcomes in school, stronger mental and physical health, and long-term success.

Right now in Richland County, thousands of young children are at risk of falling behind—before they even set foot in a classroom.

• There are more than 26,800 children ages 0–5 in our county, yet 4 out of 10 kindergartners are starting school already behind—lacking the basic skills they need to thrive.
• 42% of children under age five live in poverty or low-income households—conditions that can severely limit access to quality early learning, health care, and stable home environments. Without early intervention, these gaps only grow wider.
  

At Richland First Steps, we know that when parents are supported, children thrive. That’s why we walk alongside families during the most critical years of their children’s development—from birth to age five. Whether it’s helping your baby reach key milestones, connecting you to high-quality child care, or strengthening parent-child bonds, we’re here for the first steps—and every step after.

We deliver programs grounded in what research shows children need to succeed:

• Strong, nurturing caregiver relationships
• Safe and engaging learning environments
• Routine health and developmental screenings
• Support for early language, literacy, and communication
• Opportunities for play and social-emotional growth

Our services are built on nationally recognized, evidence-based models designed to meet families where they are and help them build strong, healthy foundations for their children.

Full-time, high-quality care for infants and toddlers that promotes brain development, health, and social-emotional growth.

Weekly, in-home support that empowers parents with tools to foster development, strengthen relationships, and detect potential delays early.

A proven, research-based program that equips families with knowledge and guidance to raise healthy, safe, and school-ready children—starting from birth.

Our work is not only urgent—it’s effective.

A 2019 evaluation by the University of South Carolina’s Institute for Families in Society found that children who received services from First Steps local partnerships were:

• 74% more likely to score at the highest level on the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment
• 34% less likely to be chronically absent in kindergarten

These results demonstrate the power of starting early and supporting families during the most critical years of development. At Richland First Steps, we’re using this evidence to guide our approach—scaling programs that work, meeting families where they are, and ensuring every child enters school ready to succeed.