Gratitude is a powerful skill that supports children’s emotional development, resilience, and overall happiness. When kids learn to appreciate the people and experiences around them, they build stronger relationships and a positive mindset that lasts well into...
News & Media
Holiday Kid Builder Activities: Helping Little Hands Prepare for Thanksgiving
Fall is the perfect time to help children grow their independence, practice new skills, and participate in meaningful family traditions. With Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings just around the corner, these Kid Builder Activities give little ones fun, age‑appropriate...
Kid Builders Safety Tips for Halloween
Halloween is full of excitement for little ones - costumes, candy, and adventures after dark. With a few simple, kid-friendly activities, you can help your preschooler practice the safety skills they’ll use on Halloween night and throughout the year. These playful...
World Mental Health Day: Nurturing the Emotional Well-Being of Our Children and Families
Every year on World Mental Health Day, we pause to reflect on what helps communities - especially families - thrive. One truth stands out: our children’s mental health is inseparable from the mental health of the adults who care for them. Why Family Mental Health...
Safe Sleep Awareness Month
Welcoming a new baby into your family brings joy, wonder, and plenty of questions, especially about sleep. Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your little one. In celebration of Safe Sleep Awareness Month, we...
Honoring National Substance Abuse Prevention Month: How Peer Support Strengthens Families and Builds Hope
Substance Abuse Prevention Month is a time to reflect on the power of compassion, connection, and community. At First 5 Orange County, we see every day how these elements can support families with young children who are navigating challenges. One of the most...
Reflecting on the HealthySteps SoCal Summit
This week, we had the privilege of welcoming more than 100 leaders and partners to Orange County for the HealthySteps SoCal Summit: Putting Dyadic Care Into Practice. Co-sponsored by HealthySteps, CalOptima, Health Management Associates (HMA), and First 5 Riverside,...
Celebrating Impact at the “Their Futures First” First 5 California Summit 2026
Last week, several members of the First 5 Orange County team had the opportunity to attend and present at the “Their Futures First” First 5 California Summit in Anaheim. The statewide conference brought together early childhood leaders, policymakers, and practitioners...
Website Redesign Request for Proposal (RFP) – Questions and Answers (Q&A)
Below are answers to each question submitted to First 5 Orange County on the Website Redesign Request for Proposal (RFP). Are firms based outside the United States eligible to apply for this project? International or non‑U.S.‑based contractors are not eligible for...
Four Ways to Celebrate National Literacy Month
National Literacy Month is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the power of reading and the impact it can have on a child’s future. Early literacy helps children build language skills, develop their imagination, and gain confidence as learners. When children grow up...