​Click below to see our Transition to Kindergarten presentation and guide!

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Contact Us

Jayne Smith, Chief Program Director for Early Childhood & Disability Services 718.475.5265 [email protected]
Dianna Russo, First Foot Forward Director  718.475.5100 [email protected]
Celeste Nieves, First Foot Forward Coordinator - Avis South Shore
718-475-5278 • [email protected]
Jennifer Karczewski, First Foot Forward Coordinator-Bernikow
718-475-5225 [email protected]
Celeste Nieves, First Foot Forward Coordinator-Berman 718.475.5100 [email protected]
Diane Recca, Family Liaison/Case Aide 718.475.5100 [email protected]

​The JCC has over 30 years of experience serving preschool children with special needs!

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First Foot Forward is dedicated to assisting children 2.6 to 5 years old with developmental needs. Our individualized curriculum allows children to reach their full potential in a warm, nurturing environment. New York City and State fund First Foot Forward programming.

First Foot Forward specializes in helping children with:

• Speech/Language Delays
• Socialization Concerns
• Developmental Delays
• Poor Motor Skills
• Sensory Needs
• Autism Spectrum Disorder

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.

Services Offered

• Individualized instruction in small center-based or integrated settings
• Full day, 10 or 12 month options
• Evaluations
• Therapy
  • Speech
  • Occupational
  • Physical
  • Counseling
• Weekly arts enrichment experiences
• Parent support groups
• Door-to-door transportation
• Smart table technology
• Related Services (therapy is provided around your child’s preschool schedule)

Locations

Classes and related services are available at three JCC locations

Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC,
​1466 Manor Road

Avis/South Shore JCC,
​1297 Arthur Kill Road

JCC/Berman Early Childhood Center, 2221 Richmond Avenue