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Early Childhood Program and Training

First Steps is Missouri’s Early Intervention system for infants and toddlers, birth to age 3, who have delayed development or diagnosed conditions that are associated with developmental disabilities.

First Steps works with families by ensuring that coordinated services are provided as conveniently as possible. Participation in First Steps is voluntary and is intended to help families of children with disabilities:

  • Understand their child’s special needs
  • Obtain the help they desire to deal with situations that could interfere with their child’s growth and development.
  • Provide the best conditions for their child’s growth and development.
Call: 1-866-583-2392 to find your local office.

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Your experience can help make a difference for ALL Missouri First Steps Families. Click the image below to learn how you can join First Steps Family Stakeholder Meetings. 

Early Childhood Resources

Missouri Family Resources https://familyresources.mo.gov/

 

Missouri Early Care & Education Connections https://earlyconnections.mo.gov/

 

DESE’s Office of Childhood https://dese.mo.gov/childhood

 

United4Children https://united4children.org/

 
Missouri Parent Education Program (PAT)-

Steps to Success Online Trainings

This series of trainings was developed for parents of children, birth to age three. The trainings will help parents to understand the First Steps Program, teach them effective communication and advocacy skills, and help them to prepare for Early Child Special Education.

Understanding the IFSP

This workshop helps families of children in the First Steps program or in the process of being evaluated understand the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) process and learn how to be an effective member of your team.

Family Record Keeping

This workshop is designed to help families understand the importance of keeping and organizing their child’s records. We will discuss what types of records and documentation are important for you to keep and why.

Communicating Your Child’s Needs

This workshop is designed to support families of young children who are new to the process of working with caregivers and providers on how to communicate effectively regarding your child and your child’s needs.

Your Parental Rights

This workshop explains the Parental Rights document that every First Steps families receives. It also helps families to understand what their right are and what their child’s rights are under Part C of the IDEA.

IDEA Part C to Part B

This workshop is designed to help parents of young children make a smooth transition from an IFSP to an IEP. Learn when the transition process should begin, the difference in services and in eligibility criteria.