Latino fatherhood is evolving, with vast benefits for children. In a piece by First 5 OC program officer Andrew Montejo, he explores how shifting cultural norms around fatherhood in Latino families are strengthening child development and more. Read here: bit.ly/464SXih

Did you know? Children and adults with permanent disabilities, including kids on the autism spectrum, are eligible for a free lifetime Access Pass to our National Parks and federal recreation lands. Learn more and apply at bit.ly/46qPfgg

The Family Support Network is offering FREE developmental screenings in August and September for children ages 0-5. Qualified therapists will screen children in 7 key areas of development. Join them on select dates from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. No appointment is necessary.

As Disability Pride Month ends, we encourage you to continue leading with empathy and replace myths with understanding. KidsIncludedTogether is dispelling 11 common myths about kids with disabilities, and why they’re simply not true. #disabilitypridemonth bit.ly/4lwpVwS

Good enough parenting is good enough! First 5 OC Program Officer Jessica Castillo reminds us that kids don’t need perfect parents, they just need ones that do their best to be present, engaged, and empathetic.

First 5 OC joined the kickoff of this year’s Kamp District, a family-friendly summer event series hosted by The District at Tustin Legacy, by bringing engaging Kid Builder activities to the community. Check out our Kid Builders activities at first5oc.org/kid-builders/

We're excited to welcome Madelynn Hirneise and Katy McInnes to the First 5 Orange County Board. Both were officially sworn in today! Madelynn and Katy bring valuable experience, strong community ties, and a deep commitment to children and families! #First5OC

We’re honored to be a partner in the OC Business Council's CA Jobs First initiative and stand alongside Senator Tony Strickland and community partner CIELO Community as they receive CA Jobs First Catalyst Funding for their Childcare Business Incubator.

Charitable Ventures and the OC Health Care Agency invite you to join a virtual focus group, conducted entirely in Spanish, to help improve mental health and substance use services in our community. Participate and get a $20 gift card! Register here: bit.ly/45Fu4cb.

Every time you get in the car and buckle them into their car seat, tell toddler how important it is to wear a seat belt. This Safety Builder activity builds familiarity with the routine to keep your child safe every time you’re on the go! For more, visit first5oc.org/kid-builders

First 5 OC recently joined two incredible community events – the OC Hispanic Chamber Mixer and the OCG Mega Mixer! These mixers are an opportunity to build relationships, raise awareness about early childhood needs, and find new ways to work together for OC’s youngest residents.

With the help of Unlimited Possibilities, we’re bringing you more speech and language tips straight from a real therapy session! Watch for simple, fun ideas to support language growth at home. #speechdevelopment #earlylanguageskills #talkingtips

Wow! 37 pregnant and postpartum families in San Juan Capistrano joined with First 5 OC and Camino Health Center at an event that provided practical assistance and essential resources for families with immediate needs.

We’re back with more Grown Up Tips for parents and caregivers! First 5 OC Program Manager Andrew shares how to take a moment during frustrating times to channel your inner silly dad (or mom!). Bring on the giggles with this helpful reminder!

In July, a successful pilot of the Developmental Play Groups (DPGs) for dads and male caregivers launched in San Juan Capistrano. To be the first to hear about all future developmental playgroups, sign up for our newsletter here at first5oc.org/newsletter/

“I spend as much time as I can outdoors. I love the smells, the play of sunlight and shadow, the sounds of rushing water – this reminds me of the beauty all around me. This is from a hike with my son in the Cucamonga Wilderness!” – Lisa, VP of Learning & Community Engagement

The new school year is an exciting time for young children as they begin to build important skills. First 5 OC created a free resource, Building Blocks for Kindergarten, to help families and children prepare to start school bit.ly/4msbXN4

Join us as we celebrate #NationalBreastfeedingMonth. First 5 OC proudly supports 33 home visitors across our 6 HFA and PAT home visiting partners that are lactation certified, and 12 First 5 funded staff across HCA programs that are lactation certified.

“Spending time with my daughter and finding new places to run especially while on vacation brings me joy and fuels my wellness – I always feel so accomplished! Here is a picture of my daughter and I out on our favorite trail.” – Yvette, Program Officer #NationalWellnessMonth

Have you ever done a silly walk with your child? First, try a slow walk, like walking in mud. Then walk super-fast, but no running! The four- and five-year-old Kid Builders activity builds coordination and leg strength in a fun way. For more, visit first5oc.org/kid-builders