SC First Steps

Getting children ready for school

All In for South Carolina’s Young Children

South Carolina First Steps works collaboratively to ensure that all children start school ready to reach their highest potential, with engaged support from parents, caregivers, and communities. All In for South Carolina’s Young Children, our 2025–30 strategic plan, is a five-year roadmap for strengthening the system of individuals and organizations supporting children from birth through age five.

See the Plan

The Latest with First Steps

SC First Steps 4K Academy reignites passion for teaching young learners

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Last week, nearly 1,000 early childcare educators across South Carolina laced up their boots and set out on an adventure for the annual First Steps 4K Academy, a multi-day professional development conference hosted by South Carolina First Steps.

Blog Post

Conquering fears as a new mom with Nurse-Family Partnership

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When Olivia Pierce discovered she was pregnant again, she was flooded with both joy and fear. That's when Olivia found the Nurse-Family Partnership, a long-term program through SC First Steps that pairs registered nurses with first-time moms from pregnancy through their child’s second birthday. She said the program helped her anxieties and changed her and her son Ja’dore’s life forever.

Blog Post

Dakota’s journey as a third-generation childcare provider

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The halls of ABC Academy in Saluda County, home to a First Steps 4K classroom, echo with the excited chatter, the clatter of building blocks and art materials, and the sound of students jumping up and down to their favorite Fun Friday song, just like they did when Dakota Chariker was a child herself, when her mother ran the center.  Today, she’s the one behind the desk.

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Creating excitement around reading, one classroom at a time

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As Outreach Librarian for Newberry County First Steps, Jennifer Polaski partners with local preschools and the Newberry County Library to bring literacy activities to 3- and 4-year-olds. Her goal: get kids excited about reading and give parents the tools to keep that excitement going at home. 

Blog Post

24 October

Palmetto Pre-K Keep Jammin!

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Make the most of your lunch break by discovering fresh, innovative ways to engage young learners through Palmetto Pre-K Keep Jammin’, Friday, Oct. 24, noon – 1 p.m.

11 November

Office Closure | Veterans Day

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South Carolina First Steps office is closed in observance of the state holiday.

27 November

Office Closure | Thanksgiving Day

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South Carolina First Steps office is closed in observance of the state holiday.

Find the SC First Steps Local Partnership Near You

Wherever you are in South Carolina, there's a local partnership nearby. Contact your local partnership to find out how we can help you and your family get connected to the resources you need.