Why Early Childhood Matters to... FAITH COMMUNITIES

The support and guidance of communities of faith have a powerful impact on the lives of young children and families. First Things First values the role that those of all faiths play in nurturing the health, learning and well-being of Arizona's infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

“We take our example from a tree: when it is a sprig, it needs to be carefully treated, nurtured and protected so that it can grow and bear good fruit. So also a child, if well treated, nurtured, protected and taught, will grow to be a productive and upright citizen.”

Most Reverend Eduardo A. Nevares
Auxiliary Bishop, Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix

“The first 5 years are critical in a child's life because everything about the child is in its formative stages, and that formation will impact the child – positively or negatively – in his or her future. As parents, guardians, extended family and as the community, we have a responsibility to ensure every child has the opportunities provided early in life to excel in every way possible.”

The Reverend Karen E. Stewart
First Institutional Baptist Church of Phoenix
Chair, First Things First Phoenix South Regional Partnership Council

"We expose young children to good things and teach them the Navajo way of life early. Even starting before birth, the mother carries herself in positivity. It's a sacred time for a child because what they learn in the first five years will stay with them for the rest of their lives."

Benjamin Barney
Faith Representative, First Things First Navajo Nation Regional Partnership Council 

“The Bible compares the human being to a tree. When a small nail is hammered into a fully grown tree, there will be very minimal damage. However, when that same nail is hammered into a young budding tree, the damage is severe. We must be careful with what we expose our young children to, because even the smallest thing can have a long term effect.”

Rabbi Shimi Ash
Chabad Jewish Center of Gilbert

“Explore, learn. Play, learn. Laugh, learn. Cry, learn. Get dirty, learn. Clean up, learn.
With your child, the smallest interaction creates a memory you will cherish, the learning experience that develops your child.”

Reverend Pete Imus
Pastor, Consuming Fire Christian Church, Peach Springs
Faith Representative, First Things First Hualapai Tribe Regional Partnership Council

“Such an amazing percentage of learning, both cognitive and affective, brain development, attitudes and personality development all occur during early childhood. A child may not remember specific events or opportunities, yet research shows that such exposure nonetheless has a profound effect. These years are the foundation for human life, and each child is deserving of love, affection, quality health care, academic and cultural stimulation. When we invest in the child, we are opening the door to endless possibility and potential!”

Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman
Congregation Kehillah, Scottsdale