First Step Learning Center

Our Teachers

Owner-Director, Lisa Young

Lisa Young (“Auntie Lisa”) has been caring for children since she was a little girl. This field is her passion. Lisa completed courses in Early Childhood Education while studying at Evergreen Valley College in San Jose. She then became a licensed childcare provider, more than 15 years ago, determined to create a program worthy of her youngest daughter. According to Lisa, her biggest reward has been to witness the incremental development of each individual child she has cared for with the understanding that every child is unique in how they approach everyday life situations. Personally, she is also a wife to a loving husband and mother to four amazing children that keep her very busy with their own extracurricular activities.

Lisa is also joined by two assistant teachers:

Assistant - Part-Time, Jayda Young

Assistant - Part-Time, Ivory Young

Philosophy

Our philosophy is to treat each child with respect and as a whole individual by fostering the development as well as social and emotional domains on a level that is appropriate for each child. Always allow children to explore their artistic abilities while building self-confidence and knowledge. It is our hope that each child will leave at the end of the day feeling better about themselves and equipped with knowledge and confidence that they can accomplish any tasks given. If we achieve this goal we add tremendously to the resources that each child takes with him or her as they move up the educational ladder.

Location

First step learning center has relocated to Brentwood, Ca. Now accepting virtual and in-person tours.

About our program

The play-based program at First Step Learning Center is inspired by the Reggio-Emilia child development approach. This approach draws from experience education rather than a more structured approach. It creates a program that is organic, intentional, and evolving while fostering a love for learning in a nurturing and safe environment. All staff is CPR, first aid, and health and safety certified.

Parent Involvement

Parent involvement is always welcomed. Parents can read a book, donate supplies, lead an activity or prepare a meal. Parents are also welcomed to participate in field trips and celebrations.

Our Approach to Discipline

We believe in using positive words and redirected actions to foster healthy behaviors and a positive learning environment. Our goals include teaching children self-control and respect for themselves and others. Our constructive techniques include redirection, modeling, natural consequences, teaching children to resolve conflicts on their own in an appropriate manner, and lastly a take a break moment is used in which the child will be directed to another part of the facility designated for the children to take a break and relax. This area contains materials, such as books, writing utensils, and puzzles, that will help the child calm down.

Outdoor Play

Outdoor play is always promoted in our program. We offer 3 play and learn structures, 1 slide as well as bikes, scooters, balls, and jump ropes. We believe that fresh air and exploring outdoor spaces enrich our learning environment.

Admissions

Join the First Step Learning Center community in four easy steps:

1. Explore our website

We’ve provided information about our philosophies and offerings to help you decide if our program may be right for your family.

2. Tour our school

Come see what makes First Step Learning Center unique. Please schedule a tour by clicking on an open slot at the top of the page.

3. Submit an Enrollment Application

If you would like to enroll, please submit an application. Please note that we require tours for all prospective families. Please do not submit an application if you have not toured.

4. Enroll

After reviewing your application, we’ll send an enrollment invitation. Upon accepting your invitation, you’ll pay your deposit (usually equal to one month’s tuition), fill out enrollment documents and review our Parent Handbook.