What Is First Steps PEC?
Updated
First Steps PEC is an early childhood education program that describes its curriculum as tailored to each child's personal learning style, developmental level, and interests. It is aimed at families who want a preschool-style setting that also strengthens Armenian identity, language, heritage, and culture. The program states that it aligns with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and emphasizes social learning, self-esteem, and emotional maturity in a loving environment.
What the program says it offers
Based on the program's own description, its approach centers on:
- Individualized education — an educational program designed for each child's personal learning style, developmental level, and interests.
- Lifelong skills — a focus on developing skills and knowledge intended to serve the child over a lifetime.
- Social and emotional growth — emphasis on social learning, self-esteem, and emotional maturity.
- Parent involvement — the program states that learning begins at home and encourages parents' participation.
- Armenian cultural identity — alongside general learning, it aims to strengthen Armenian identity, language, heritage, and culture.
The program also says that when children leave, they should have a sense of independence and responsibility needed for continued education.
Who it may suit
First Steps PEC could be a fit if you are looking for:
- An early childhood program that adapts to your child's individual pace and interests.
- A setting that treats social skills and emotional development as central, not secondary.
- A program that intentionally includes Armenian language and culture.
- A school that expects and welcomes parent participation.
If you need a program with no cultural or language component, or one that follows a strictly standardized curriculum for all children, this model may not match what you are looking for.
How to learn more or get started
The homepage offers a few direct next steps:
- Read More — for additional detail on the program.
- Take our virtual tour — a way to see the setting before visiting or applying.
- View Academic Calendar — for the schedule of terms and events.
The site also lists upcoming activities, which gives a sense of the program's rhythm and cultural focus:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Great California Shakeout | Thursday, October 15 |
| Armenian Cultural Week | Monday, October 19 – Friday, October 23 |
| Staff Seminar (minimum day) | Friday, October 23 |
| Armenian Cultural Breakfast | Sunday, October 25 |
| Pumpkin Patch Week | Monday, October 26 – Thursday, October 29 |
| Halloween Parade Party | Friday, October 30 |
What the page does not cover
The homepage does not list tuition, fees, ages served, hours, enrollment requirements, or licensing details. If any of those matter to your decision, you will need to request them directly rather than assume them from the site. The virtual tour and "Read More" links are the most likely places to find further specifics.