First Steps Kent releases report “Today’s Investment in Tomorrow: The State of Early Childhood Programs and Services in Kent County.”

First Steps Kent has released a report titled "Today’s Investment in Tomorrow: The State of Early Childhood Programs and Services in Kent County." The report opens by challenging the conventional question of "Are kids ready for kindergarten?" by prompting a more encompassing question: "Is the community prepared to ensure kids are ready for kindergarten?" A "ready community" is described as having policies, programs, and supports that foster healthy births, ensure children's overall well-being and development, and prepare them for school.

This report serves as a follow-up to the 2017 Gap Analysis and provides an overview of the early childhood landscape in Kent County. It assesses the capacity of existing early childhood programs and services, emphasizing the progress made since the implementation of the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage in 2018. First Steps Kent, partners, and funders will be able to use the findings to identify where gaps in services exist and create strategies to reach more of our youngest children and their families.

“We have seen increased participation in programs that support young children’s health, development, and school readiness in all corners of Kent County,” said Jennifer Headley, Nordman, president of First Steps Kent. “This is thanks in large part to the community’s investment in early childhood programs and services, and the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage.”

The report delves into an evaluation of various programs and services, covering topics such as early childhood programs, outreach and navigation, developmental screenings, home visiting, behavioral health, play and learn groups, child care, and preschool. Despite the significant progress that has been made, there are still thousands of children and families in need of services. The report reinforces that investing in our community’s youngest children is not only the smart thing to do but it’s the right thing to do.

For those interested, the full report can be accessed here. A print-friendly version is also available, and physical copies can be requested by emailing Megan Streng at mstreng@firststepskent.org.