First 5 Contra Costa builds capacity for the systems change we need so all children thrive.
First 5 Contra Costa offers providers and partners professional development opportunities that enhance service delivery, introduce new approaches, and bring an equity or trauma-informed lens to the work. Our capacity building work supports individuals, organizations, and coalitions in developing the knowledge and skills needed to improve the systems that families’ and young children interact with in our county.
Below are some examples of our capacity building work:
Early Childhood Education
We offer early educators a variety of training, coaching, and learning opportunities to enhance the quality of their programs. The Quality Matters program provides a framework, standards, and learning opportunities for early educators to continually enhance their practice. Through the Professional Development Program recipients receive stipends for courses and degree attainment. Our Family Child Care Partner Program offers peer coaching and quality supports.
Early Intervention
Through our Contra Costa Network of Care project, we provide training and networking opportunities to healthcare and social service providers about how to prevent, screen, treat, and heal childhood adversity and toxic stress. We also offer trainings and events to increase service providers’ and families’ awareness and understanding of developmental screenings through our local Help Me Grow program.
Strengthening Families
At our five First 5 Centers, we offer a variety of classes, workshops and activities aimed at educating parents and caregivers about child development and positive parenting practices. Additionally, we fund free evidence-based parenting classes in multiple languages at various locations across the county.