Get important age-based health texts from the AAP!

A reminder that the Ages & Stages text messaging program is now available! If you’re expecting a baby—or have kids up to the age of five—be sure to sign up below to receive important, age-based text messages for your family from the American Academy of Pediatrics! Your weekly messages will include

  • Safety and injury prevention information
  • Nutrition and feeding advice
  • Timely health reminders like COVID updates
  • What to expect at well-child check-ups
  • Upcoming vaccine reminders
  • Developmental milestones to watch for
  • Seasonal health and wellness tips
  • And much more!

As a HealthyChildren.org registered user, you will automatically receive an email version of the Ages & Stages program if you are pregnant or have a child up to 15 months of age—and you’ve provided your due date or child’s birthday information. You may update your profile here if you haven’t provided this information yet.

They plan to add more Ages & Stages text and email messages in the near future—with content for parents of kids all the way up to age 18!

Sign Up Now!

Best wishes to you and your family,

​First Five Years & Beyond

Car seat education and installation support

Free child car seat check events are happening locally for parents, parents-to-be and caregivers. Whether this is your first time installing a car seat in preparation for the arrival of a new baby or you’ve done this many times, installing car seats correctly can be tricky. Only one in four car seats are installed correctly according to national data. That’s in part because every car seat and vehicle is different and as your child grows, how they sit in your car will change.
Access a list of locations in King County where you can have your child’s car seat inspected.
NOTICE: In order to maintain social distancing recommendations, many car seat checks will be postponed or cancelled. Please reach out to the event contact to confirm the status of posted car seat checks before you attend an event. If you are interested in a “Virtual” car seat check, please contact Laura Miccile at laura.miccile@kingcounty.gov or 206-477-8664.

Backpack Connection Series

First Five Years & Beyond is excited to promote the The Backpack Connection Series, created by TACSEI to provide a way for parents/caregivers to work together to help young children develop social emotional skills and reduce challenging behavior. Each Backpack Connection handout provides information that helps parents stay informed about what their child is learning at school and specific ideas on how to use the strategy or skill at home. Click on the image for more information.