Welcome to
First 5 Santa Barbara County

All children deserve the best start in life. In the first 5 years of a child's life, critical connections are made in the brain that impact lifelong learning. How we nurture and support our children today will impact their success in school and in life.

First 5 Santa Barbara County Children and Families Commission works in partnership with individuals and organizations throughout the county, to support the health, early learning and well-being of children pre-natal through age 5 and their families.

Help us to make Santa Barbara County the best place for young children to grow and learn!

 

Would you like to be part of the Advisory Board?

We are currently recruiting for 4 members.  To apply click here. If you have any questions please contact Sara Soto 805-884-8085

July is Summer Safety Month

Summer activities are a favorite among young children, from playing on swings to swimming in cool water. But spending more time outside near garages, pools, lakes, and playground equipment can increase a child’s risk of injury. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 2.5 million children are injured around their homes every year. To help parents and caregivers protect kids from potential dangers and reduce accidents this summer, First 5 Santa Barbara County offers the following tips on childproofing outdoor areas. Visit the parent page

NEWS & EVENTS

Santa Barbara County Children's Oral Health Summit

Santa Barbara County Children's Oral Health Summit took place on Friday, June 25, 2010 at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott in Buellton. To view the powerpoint presentations click on the links below:

The Critical Role of Oral Health in Optimal Child Health

Santa Barbara County Children's Oral Health Summit

Children's Oral Health Scorecard

Smiles Within Reach in Santa Barbara County

Recommended Funding Allocations for Contract Renegotiations

First 5 Santa Barbara County's Recommendned Funding Allocations for Contract Renegotiation are now available. 

Take a look at the School Readiness Miniseries videos on the Kindergarten Student Entrance Profile (KSEP)

Each miniseries video is about the efforts taking place in Santa Barbara County to better understand and assess the school readiness of entering kindergarten students.

Video #1: What is School Readiness

Video #2: Why is School Readiness Important

Video #3: About the KSEP

Video #4: Entering Kindergarten- Are you Ready?

Video #5: How Does the KSEP Relate to Later Academic Achievement

There will be no July Commission Meeting.

The next Commission Meeting will be on August 16, 2010 from 9:00-12:00 at the Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors Hearing Room. If you have any questions please contact Sara Soto at 805-884-8085