Uplifting Early Education Professionals
First Up training and teaching raises professional skill levels and helps further our goal of promoting inclusive, equitable and developmentally appropriate practices in supporting young children. We work with educators individually and in groups and encourage collaborative action with our Communities of Practice.
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Supporting Early Childhood Professionals Across Pennsylvania
First Up supports early childhood educators throughout Philadelphia, Southeastern Pennsylvania, and across the Commonwealth with opportunities to strengthen their skills, advance their careers, and grow within the early childhood education field. Our work serves professionals in child care, preschool, Pre-K, infant and toddler programs, home-based child care, and other early learning environments.
By investing in educators, First Up helps strengthen the early childhood workforce and the quality of care and education available to young children. Whether you are beginning a career in early education, pursuing a new credential, or looking for ongoing professional development, First Up provides resources and pathways designed to support continued growth.
Professional Development, Training and Career Growth
Ongoing learning helps early childhood educators build stronger classroom practices, develop leadership skills, and respond to the changing needs of children and families. First Up offers Professional Learning opportunities for child care educators, preschool teachers, Pre-K professionals, program leaders, and other members of Pennsylvania’s early childhood workforce.
Professional learning opportunities support educators at different stages of their careers and can address topics relevant to high-quality early childhood education. First Up’s training also supports professionals working within Pennsylvania’s early learning system, including opportunities connected to PQAS continuing education, Keystone STARS, and NAEYC-aligned professional competencies.
Educators looking for additional tools and practical information can also explore First Up’s Resources for Professionals.
Degrees, Certifications and Early Childhood Career Pathways
First Up helps early childhood professionals continue their education through Degrees and Certifications that support career advancement and long-term workforce development.
The Learn and Earn Career Pathway Program creates opportunities for early childhood professionals to combine employment with college coursework, coaching, mentorship, and professional growth. Pathways can help educators work toward credentials and college degrees while continuing to gain experience in the field.
Professionals who work with very young children can also explore the Infant Toddler Proficiency Program, which provides a specialized pathway for building infant and toddler expertise and advancing educational goals.
Through training, career pathways, professional resources, and continued learning, First Up works to support early childhood educators while strengthening the workforce that serves young children and families throughout Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Professional Development
What Professional Development Does First Up Offer for Early Childhood Educators?
First Up provides early childhood professional development and training for educators throughout Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania. Learning opportunities are designed to help early childhood educators strengthen their skills, advance professionally, and provide high-quality learning experiences for young children in child care, preschool, and Pre-K settings.
Who Can Participate in First Up’s Early Childhood Educator Training?
First Up supports professionals throughout the early childhood field, including child care educators, preschool teachers, Pre-K professionals, program leaders, directors, and home-based child care providers. Available training and professional learning opportunities vary by program, experience level, and professional goals.
How Does First Up Support Early Childhood Educators in Pennsylvania?
First Up supports early childhood educators through professional learning, career development, coaching, degrees and certification pathways, and specialized programs. These opportunities help educators build their knowledge and skills while supporting early childhood workforce development throughout Pennsylvania.
Does First Up Offer Career Pathways for Early Childhood Educators?
Yes. The Learn and Earn Career Pathway Program combines academic learning with on-the-job experience, coaching, mentorship, and professional development. First Up also offers other degree and certification opportunities for early childhood professionals at different stages of their careers.
Does First Up Provide Training for Infant, Toddler, Preschool, and Pre-K Educators?
First Up offers professional learning opportunities for educators working across the early childhood years. Professionals working with infants and toddlers can also learn about the Infant Toddler Proficiency Program, while additional training and resources support educators working in preschool, Pre-K, child care, and other early learning environments.
Where Does First Up Provide Support for Early Childhood Professionals?
First Up is based in Philadelphia and supports early childhood professionals throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. Its training, professional learning, career pathways, and early childhood resources also contribute to broader efforts to strengthen the early childhood education workforce across Pennsylvania.