We are the county's leading resource connecting families and child-serving organizations with services and programs, preparing children zero to three to reach their highest potential as they begin their educational journey.
For Families - Evidence shows that the earlier development is assessed - the greater chance a child has to reach their potential. HCFS uses the Ages and Stages Questionnaire because it relies on parents as experts, is easy to use, family-friendly, and creates a snapshot needed to catch delays and celebrate milestones. Our Development experts are here to support families to determine if their child is developmentally on-tract.
- Early Identification and Referral
Early Care and Education - When children attend high-quality care and education from birth, they are more likely to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Horry County First Steps increases classroom quality and professional development in early childhood programs. Programs increasing the quality of early care and education settings:
- Creative Curriculum Cohort
- Workshops for Early Care and Education Staff
PASOS - PASOS helps build a stronger South Carolina by supporting Latino communities with education, advocacy, and leadership development.
Community Programs - Horry County First Steps takes a holistic approach to accomplishing its mission. We offer support to programs that focus on early care and education, family support, health, and early literacy. Programs currently supported by Horry County First Steps:
- Early Education Art Program (MB Art Museum)
- Story Walk (Chapin Library and Horry County Library)
- Finklea Family Afterschool Program (Finklea Family Community Association)
