FirstSpark

06/05/2026

Screens are part of life—but balance matters.

Try this approach:
• Prioritize interactive play first
• Watch together and talk about what you see
• Replace some screen time with hands-on activities

Real-world interaction is what builds strong brains in the early years.

06/04/2026

👀 Are you passionate about supporting quality interactions for young children?

Join us for an upcoming CLASS Observer Interest Session and learn how you can help elevate early childhood education by promoting meaningful teacher-child interactions across Virginia.

Whether you’re already certified or interested in becoming a CLASS Observer, we’d love to connect with you!

📅 Upcoming Sessions:
• June 23, 2026 | 10:00 AM
• July 1, 2026 | 1:00 PM

Register today:

06/03/2026

📘✨ Our FY2025 Impact Report is here.

This past year, FirstSpark continued working alongside families, educators, and community partners to strengthen early childhood systems across Ready Region Chesapeake Bay. From expanding access to quality early learning opportunities to supporting educators and advocating for families, this work is only possible because of our community.

Together, we are helping create:
💛 Stronger support systems for families
👩‍🏫 More resources and professional growth for educators
🧠 Better outcomes for young children during the most critical years of development

As we reflect on the progress made in FY2025, we remain committed to building a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

📖 Read the full report here:
https://www.firstsparkva.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/First-Spark-FY2025-Impact-Report-FINAL-web.pdf

06/02/2026

👀 June is Child Vision Awareness Month.

Vision plays a big role in how children learn, explore, and connect with the world around them. Early screenings and regular eye care can help identify concerns early and support healthy development.

✨ Little eyes are taking in big things every day.

06/01/2026

Parents and Child Care Providers — don’t miss this opportunity!

FirstSpark is hosting 1‑hour virtual Community Discussion Groups to help develop real solutions that reduce barriers to child care in the Chesapeake Bay region. Your story matters. By sharing your experience finding or providing child care, you can help improve access for families and providers across your community.

The first 50 participants will also be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card (pretax and fees) — register now to be part of this exclusive opportunity!

Why Your Voice Matters
FirstSpark is gathering real experiences from families and licensed child care providers.

Tell us:
Where did your child care journey begin
What challenges you faced
What would make things better for families and providers
Your insight helps shape meaningful, community‑driven solutions.

Family Focus Group
Open to parents/guardians of children age 5 or younger June 4 • 12–1 PM
Family Registration: https://forms.gle/tiQZehJmLaXkxi5aA

Provider Focus Groups
Open to child care providers serving children age 5 or younger June 9 • 1–2 PM June 18 • 6–7 PM (Please attend one session)
Provider Registration: https://forms.gle/iArThLSZbpQBsH6z9

FirstSpark would love to hear about your search for child care. Where did you start? What problems did you face? And what would make finding child care easier for your family and other families in the region? This virtual discussion will give local families a chance to talk to one another and to our...

05/29/2026

💛 Every spark counts—and yours can make a lasting difference.

Across our region, families are working hard to give their children the best possible start. But without access to affordable, high-quality child care, too many are forced to make impossible choices—between work and family, stability and opportunity.

At FirstSpark, we’re building a stronger early childhood system—one that supports families, empowers educators, and ensures every child has the foundation they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

✨ When you give, you’re helping:
👶 Children access safe, nurturing learning environments
👩‍🏫 Educators gain tools, training, and support
🏡 Families find stability and opportunity during the most critical years

This isn’t just about today—it’s about shaping futures.

💛 Be part of the change. Make your impact today:

Support the ongoing efforts of FirstSpark through a gift to our Annual Campaign. A gift of any amount is appreciated and recurring gifts are welcomed! 

05/28/2026

Children thrive on predictability.

A simple daily routine can help:
• Reduce stress and meltdowns
• Build independence
• Support healthy sleep habits

It doesn’t have to be perfect—just consistent. Even small routines (like bedtime reading) make a big difference.

05/26/2026

🤝 Support today = independence tomorrow.

05/25/2026

🇺🇸 Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

Their sacrifice is the foundation of the freedoms we experience every day.

As we spend time with family and loved ones, we pause in gratitude for those who made it possible. ❤️🤍💙

05/21/2026

Big feelings can be overwhelming—for kids and adults. 💛

Instead of rushing to fix the moment, try:
• Naming the feeling: “You seem upset”
• Staying calm and close
• Offering simple choices once they’re regulated

Children learn emotional regulation from the adults around them. Your calm becomes their calm.