First Things First Porter County

10/20/2026

Talk with your child about favorite seasonal activities by asking, “What do we do every year when the weather gets cooler?” Sharing memories about pumpkin carving, apple picking, or family gatherings helps build vocabulary, language skills, and a sense of belonging.

10/19/2026

SPOTS ARE FILLING FAST!!!

Register today
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/9cqr43v

This immersive, hands-on workshop will explore how professionals can encourage families to use blocks to support children in all facets of their development.

After participating in the workshop, you will receive a kit of materials (valued at over $450) related to the content to use with the children and families you serve.

10/16/2026

No tricks, just tasty treats! Try these playful Halloween lunch ideas for a little extra fun in your child's day.

Want more great ideas? Text PORTER to to 274 448.

Receive simple, practical tips, easy activities you can use right away, updates on community events, helpful resources — and so much more.

10/15/2026

Here in Indiana, we’re proud to recognize that every business, from micro startups to large corporations play a vital role in supporting working parents.

Through the Best Place for Working Parents® [Insert Region] initiative, local companies can take a free, 3-minute self-assessment to see how their family-friendly policies measure up and earn official designation as a Best Place for Working Parents®.

Free 3-Minute Assessment
Confidential Results
Recognition for All Business Sizes

Join the growing network of employers proving that family-friendly is business-friendly.

Earn Your Free Designation Today
business.bestplace4workingparents.com

10/14/2026

Sometimes a book in the mailbox can spark something much bigger.

In this heartfelt blog, Lexi Hendricks (daughter of staffer Kimberly Hendricks) shares how Dolly's story inspired her to embrace her own journey, overcome challenges, and find confidence in what makes her unique.

https://www.firstthingspc.org/blog/lovedolly

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10/13/2026

What activities can we do in the fall? Use this question to start a conversation with your child! Talk about jumping in leaves, picking pumpkins or collecting acorns. Taking turns sharing ideas helps children develop language, listening, and critical thinking skills while making special fall memories together.

10/12/2026

You're Invited:
Two-Part Help Me Grow Virtual Open House

The Help Me Grow (HMG) National Center will host a two-part
Virtual Open House, and we’re extending an invitation to state and community leaders, changemakers, and partners like you.

Why? Because families’ needs don’t begin and end at the boundaries between programs, but support often does. Families may be left to figure out what’s available, where to start, and how to connect with the next resource on their own.

REGISTER:
Help Me Grow Virtual Open House - Part One
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/uxgJRMAaSNObgOxoacDtJA #/registration

Help Me Grow Virtual Open House - Part Two
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/QYXR2llsQ-K_Udip8LtqRA #/registration

In the first session of our two-part Open House, you’ll be introduced to the HMG Model and how it is implemented to improve family experiences in communities nationwide.

10/09/2026

Stuck? Curious? Just wondering?

Drop into A.S.K. - our virtual open office hour this Monday from 1:00-2:00 PM and get your questions answered live. No appointment, no pressure, just support when you need it.

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84952978261

10/08/2026

First Things First is inviting you to "Block Party!", an Expert Voices* session featuring Linda Curley from Purdue Extension and supported by Early Learning Indiana.

This immersive, hands-on workshop will explore how professionals can encourage families to use blocks to support children in all facets of their development.

Breakfast will be served at 8:00 AM. Come hungry!

After participating in the workshop, you will receive a kit of materials (valued at over $450) related to the content to use with the children and families you serve.

*Expert Voices is a series of professional development opportunities, supported by Early Learning Indiana, that showcase outstanding instructional practices to help early childhood professionals deepen children's learning.

REGISTER: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/9cqr43v

10/07/2026

"This October, make your little pumpkin’s future shine!

Seeds of Promise offers eligible Porter County babies $100 toward education after high school. It’s an easy step that can help your little one grow toward big dreams.

Visit: firstthingspc.org/savings to learn more.