First
Foot Forward
First Foot Forward is dedicated to assisting children 2.5 to 5 years old with developmental needs. Our individualized curriculum allows children to reach their full potential in a warm, nurturing environment. Funded by New York City and New York State.
Helping Children Thrive: Specialized Support Services
First Foot Forward fosters children’s growth in the following areas:
Early Learning and Pre-Academics
Speech/Language Acquisition
Social/Emotional Skills
Motor Skills
Sensory Regulation and Processing
Independence in Activities of Daily Living
To receive services, children need to be evaluated at an approved evaluation site. Our team of certified professionals can evaluate your child at no cost to you. Program eligibility is recommended by the Department of Education’s Committee on Preschool Special Education and is based upon the individual needs of your child.
We have an open door policy and you are welcome at any time. We welcome children of all faiths and nationalities. All services (evaluations, transportation, tuition) are at no direct cost to parents.
Our organization has worked with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to be designated as a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC). Our staff has completed training and certification in best practices when assisting autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals. By undergoing additional autism-specific training, the goal is for our team to be better equipped to provide better service and experiences to all. Click to learn more about what it means to be a Certified Autism Center™
Services Offered
Educational Programs
Individualized instruction in small center-based or integrated settings
Full day, 10 or 12 month options
Evaluations & Therapy Services
Evaluations
Related Services (therapy around preschool schedule)
Speech Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Physical Therapy
Counseling
Enrichment & Support
Weekly arts enrichment experiences
Parent support groups
Door-to-door transportation
Smart table technology
Meet the Team
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Jayne Smith, M.S. SpED,SAS, SDL
Chief Program Director for Early Childhood & Disability Services
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Dianna Russo, MSE SpEd/SBL
First Foot Forward Director
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Jennifer Karczewski, Ms.SpEd
First Foot Forward Coordinator – Bernikow JCC
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Diane Recca
Family Liaison/Case Aide
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Pamela Colon, MSE Sp. Ed.
First Foot Forward IEP Coordinator- Berman
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Allison Romeo, MS CCC-SLP
Clinical Coordinator
Three Convenient Locations
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Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC
1466 Manor Road
Staten Island, NY 10314
(718) 475-5225 -

Nancy & Ronald Avis - South Shore JCC
1297 Arthur Kill Road
Staten Island, NY 10312
(718) 475-5278 -

JCC Berman Early Childhood Center
2221 Richmond Avenue
Staten Island, NY 10314
(718) 475-5100