Our Approach
Early Childhood Program Improvement in Philadelphia and Southeastern PA
Grounded in research-based evidence and data-driven decision-making, First Up works alongside programs to co-design strategies that enhance the experiences educators, children and families have every day. Our programming integrates:
Professional Development and Leadership Training
that equips educators and program leaders to develop learning environments where children flourish, families are engaged, and staff grow as leaders.
High-Level Coaching and Peer-to-Peer Communities of Practice
that foster collaboration, shared learning, and sustainable improvements in both program practices, systems change and family engagement.
Support for Center and Home-Based Programs
that strengthens program quality, aligns with early childhood standards to raise programs quality as assessed by the Keystone STARS quality rating system, and ensures every child has access to enriching, nurturing learning experiences.
Business and Operational Guidance
that helps program leaders build sustainable programs.
Through our work, we have helped early childhood centers strengthen and sustain high-quality practices that directly benefit young children, families, and teachers. Our team—made up largely of professionals with lived experience as directors, administrators, and teachers—brings practical expertise, empathy, and insight to every partnership.
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Frequently Asked Questions About First Up’s Approach to Early Childhood Program Improvement
How Does First Up Help Early Childhood Programs Improve Quality?
First Up works collaboratively with early childhood programs to identify strengths, set goals, and develop practical strategies for improvement. Support can include coaching, professional learning, leadership development, business practices, program administration, and family and community engagement.
What Is Early Childhood Program Coaching?
Early childhood program coaching is a collaborative process that gives educators and program leaders ongoing opportunities to reflect, practice, and apply new strategies in real learning environments. First Up coaches work alongside programs over time rather than relying on one-time training.
Programs interested in individualized support can learn more about First Up’s Coaching services.
What Areas of an Early Childhood Program Can First Up Help Strengthen?
First Up works with program leaders and educators across five key focus areas: learning environments, leadership development, business practices, program administration, and family and community partnerships. Together, these areas support stronger early learning environments and more sustainable child care programs.
Does First Up Support Child Care Quality Improvement?
Yes. First Up helps center- and home-based child care providers strengthen program quality through individualized support, coaching, and professional development. Programs working to improve quality through Pennsylvania’s Keystone STARS system can also explore First Up’s Quality Improvement Programs.
Does First Up Work With Both Child Care Centers and Home-Based Providers?
Yes. First Up supports center-based programs as well as home-based child care providers throughout Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania. Support is responsive to each program’s structure, goals, community, and professional needs.
Home-based educators can also learn more about First Up’s Home-Based Child Care Services.
How Does First Up Support Early Childhood Program Leaders?
First Up helps program leaders strengthen leadership skills, program administration, staff development, family partnerships, and long-term organizational practices. This support is designed to help leaders create high-quality environments for both educators and young children.
Does First Up Help Child Care Providers With Business Practices?
Yes. Business practices are one of First Up’s core areas of program support. Assistance can help providers strengthen operations, financial sustainability, technology use, and planning. Programs needing additional operational assistance can explore First Up’s Technology Services.
Where Does First Up Provide Early Childhood Program Support?
First Up is based in Philadelphia and works with early childhood programs throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. Its program improvement efforts also support the broader goal of strengthening early childhood education and the child care workforce across Pennsylvania.