Programs

Literacy-Library Program

In collaboration with Saluda County Library, Saluda County First Steps contributed curriculum materials, other materials, books, a summer intern assistant, and performers/entertainers to provide high quality educational programs for children 0-5 years of age and their families in Saluda County. With continued restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these performances were presented using in person and virtual media outlets. This allowed us to reach more children and families in Saluda County and provide services to families in need.

Child Care Scholarships

We currently provide 5 scholarships to eligible families in Saluda County. Through SC Department of Social Services (SCDSS) – This program provides funded child care scholarships distributed by SC First Steps Local Partnerships. Eligible children receive tuition-free enrollment at quality child care programs. These Child Care Scholarships are part of a special voucher category designated by SCDSS exclusively for SC First Steps families. To qualify for a scholarship, client parents or caregivers must be enrolled in an evidence-based program through a Local Partnership.

Positive Parenting Program

The Positive Parenting Program is a system of family interventions for parents of children who have, or are at risk of developing, behavior problems. It is a preventively oriented program that aims to promote positive, caring relationships between parents and their children, and to help parents develop effective management strategies for dealing with a variety of childhood behavioral and emotional problems and common developmental issues.

Early Education Program

The Saluda County First Steps Early Education program collaborated with Saluda School District One for Saluda Primary School and expanded to Hollywood Elementary School to provide high-quality educational support for 4K and 5K students in English and Spanish. The students are identified based on assessments and noted as in need of additional assistance to master skills. We continued to offer these services in person and small group or one-on-one as our school district came together to provide the safety protocol measures to address the needs of Saluda County children.

Child Care Training

High-quality child care hinges on high-quality professional development that meets the needs of the local child care workforce. Our training programs are certified through SC Endeavors and include topics in the areas of nutrition, health and safety, curriculum, child guidance, professional development, and program administration.