Quinn Fordham, Founder & CEO, mother of three

First Steps has figured out a flexible and reliable model that works for today’s family.

~ John, father of three

We understand that childcare is not one size fits all.

Built on strong word-of-mouth referrals, First Steps began solving the major problems that exist in the childcare industry. First Steps was founded in 2008 when it became apparent that the childcare industry lacked adequate standards and functionality to meet the needs of today’s family. Since its founding, First Steps has continued to grow overwhelmingly in size and popularity.

Say goodbye to:

  • Phone tag
  • Minimum hours
  • Blackout times or dates
  • Placement fees

And say hello to:

  • Convenient technology
  • Direct contact information
  • Developing relationships
  • On the ground support

The First Steps model is flexible. Some members prefer to use the fast matching technology every time, while others aim to develop ongoing relationships following initial matches. First Steps strives to provide peace of mind so parents and sitters can choose how to best use their membership. Securing childcare should make life easier, not more difficult.

Praise for First Steps

Real quotes from real members.

“We looked at those big matching sites, some other apps and some small local agencies, but both are missing something. First Steps has figured out a flexible and reliable model that works for today’s family.”

~ John, father of three

“Quality over quantity every time. I don’t need or want 50 profiles to sift through. I don’t have the time. I trust my First Steps sitter matches, knowing they have surpassed the rigorous screening process put in place by First Steps.”

~ Suzy, mother of two

“They say ‘Necessity is the mother of invention.’ Well, First Steps was built by a mother from the ground up and she and her team ‘just get it’”

~ Laura, mother of two

“Becoming a parent was as wonderful as it was overwhelming, as I struggled to find time to be a professional, a wife, a daughter, a friend and myself without a lot of help to watch my infant. I also quickly learned that not everyone is willing to share their go-to babysitters since they don’t want to miss out on reserving their time. A colleague referred me to First Steps and I was instantly intrigued; it almost seemed too good to be true. I quickly learned that they really are truly great and take just as wonderful care of their nannies and sitters as they do their families, prioritizing safety needs above all else. I am constantly impressed by everyone we meet from the First Steps Network, in addition to their level of professionalism and communication. First Steps gives me peace of mind, the ability to work, and the freedom to enjoy ‘me time’ without wondering if my infant will be properly cared for by his nanny or babysitters. ”

~ Allyne, mother of one

“With my first child we had tons of family willing to babysit, but now that our second baby has arrived we are needing more sitters. I implicitly trust First Steps. All I do is reach out and there’s an available sitter’s profile in my inbox. Though I could, I never have to call a reference because of this trusted network. I was really nervous with having a ‘threenager’ and a newborn, but only the most qualified candidates have arrived at my doorstep. First steps was one of the best decisions I made for our family.”

~ Leisa, mother of two

“We were in a huge jam last weekend with a friend’s birthday, an out of town guest and a sick babysitter. We were amazed that with only a few hours notice a wonderful babysitter was located and able to help us out. We are so thankful to First Steps and their wonderful service. I couldn’t recommend them more highly.”

~ Daryn, mother of one

“The First Steps sitters are fantastic! We have used this service since our twin daughters were about 6 months old and couldn’t be happier with our decision. Being new parents, and living away from family, we were at a loss as to how to find sitters who we would feel comfortable leaving our children with. First Steps was recommended to us by friends and we have used it ever since. We have always felt very comfortable with the sitters we have gotten. They are always wonderful with our children (and dog), and are prompt, professional and trustworthy. My husband and I know when we go out that our daughters are being well taken care of. We have some wonderful First Steps sitters who our girls absolutely love – and we now contact first – but when they aren’t available I never hesitate to reach out because I know the First Steps Network of sitters are all well qualified and kind. I highly recommend it to all my friends!”

~ Heather, mother of twins

“Being far away from family, finding someone to occasionally care for our young son felt overwhelming. However, through the recommendation of our neighbor, I reluctantly contacted the First Steps Network. I am so happy I did! The process was easy, and the results have put our minds at ease. We’ve now used a couple sitters and felt comfortable leaving our son with each of them. We are finally able to have an enjoyable, worry-free, child-free night out!”

~ Kate, mother of one

“I have to say I have been so impressed with all the First Steps sitters that have babysat for us. Even though we’ve had a different girl each time so far they have been lovely! What a blessing this service is to moms like me who are new to the area and don’t know anyone. First Steps definitely takes all my fears away from having a first time sitter!”

~ Audra, mother of four

“We have found almost all of our ‘go to’ sitters from First Steps. When we can’t get a regular sitter, we know we can always find someone with First Steps. Money well spent!”

~ Lainie, mother of three

“I could not recommend this company more! One of the very first families I started babysitting for has literally become my second family. They even took me to visit Wyoming, where I ended up moving for two years. I really cannot imagine life without them today, and it’s crazy to think that they just started off as people I babysat for. So, so great!”

~ Michelle, sitter since 2012

“While First Steps is a lifesaver for parents, it’s fantastic for sitters and nannies as well! I worked as a sitter for over 5 years. FS is such a financial asset. I have been able to career hop, try my hand at entrepreneurship (twice) and travel to some amazing places! If that wasn’t enough, I have met some great families along the way. I highly recommend First Steps to families as well as prospective sitters.”

~ TaJanna, sitter since 2013

Our Partners

Our Members Love Us.
And we know you will too.

  • First Steps has figured out a flexible and reliable model that works for today’s family.

    ~ John, father of three
  • I trust my First Steps sitter matches, knowing they have surpassed the rigorous screening process put in place by First Steps.

    ~ Suzy, mother of two
  • With First Steps, only the most qualified candidates have arrived at my doorstep.

    ~ Leisa, mother of two
  • What a blessing. First Steps definitely takes all my fears away from having a first time sitter!

    ~ Audra, mother of four
  • What a blessing. First Steps definitely takes all my fears away from having a first time sitter!

    ~ Audra, mother of four
  • First Steps is a lifesaver for parents, and it’s fantastic for sitters and nannies as well.

    ~ TaJanna, sitter since 2013
  • I could not recommend this company more.

    ~ Michelle, sitter since 2012