The first 2,000 days of a child’s life between birth and kindergarten are critical to development and their chances of lifelong health and well-being.
We’re Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development serving 140,000 children, families and professionals.
Our more than 800 caring and highly-qualified staff provide 40 early childhood programs and services to children, families and professionals in Arizona.
BIRTH TO FIVE HELPLINE™
Call 877-705-KIDS (5437) for Free Child Development Support
The Birth to Five Helpline is a free service open to all Arizona families with young children looking for the latest child development information from experts in the field. Professionals may also take advantage of this service.
Call the Helpline to speak with one of our bilingual (English/Spanish) early childhood specialists, on duty Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. You can also leave a voicemail, complete our online contact form (below), or text the Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
NEWS
Ariel’s Journey: Finding Joy and Independence at the Adapt Shop
Three-year-old Ariel has been a familiar face at Southwest Human Development’s Adapt Shop—visiting more than 13 times since she was just under a year old. When her mom, Angel, first …
The Power of Reading: Making Storytime Fun and Interactive
Reading with young children isn’t just about words on a page—it’s about building connections, sparking imagination, and laying the foundation for lifelong learning. From birth to age five, children’s brains are …
Encouraging Growth Through Everyday Moments
Parenting is full of small, everyday moments that shape your child’s development. Here are some creative ways to turn daily routines into learning opportunities. This is especially important for children …
Everyday Tips to Support Your Child’s Growth and Development
The early years, from birth to age five, are filled with exciting milestones and opportunities for learning. Whether your child is just starting preschool or you’re thinking about Head Start, …
Creating Holiday Memories
Creating Cherished Memories: Tips for Quality Family Time This Holiday Season The holiday season is a prime opportunity for families to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. During the festive …
Top 10 Baby Safety Tips Every Parent Needs to Know
September is Baby Safety Month—a perfect time to review some essential safety tips for parents of young children, especially those from birth to five years old. Keeping your little one …
We’re here to help.
Our early childhood professionals are available to answer any questions you may have about young children ages 0-5 in the areas of child development, feeding, sleep, behavior and more.
Programs for Children & Families
Southwest Human Development offers more than 40 programs that support Arizona children and families with a special focus on ages 0-5.
Child Development and Mental Health
Supporting children’s early relationships and promoting healthy development.
Helping children enter school ready to learn through high-quality early childhood education programs.
Easterseals Disabilities Services
Providing comprehensive support, evaluation and intervention that best fits each child’s unique needs.
Family Support & Child Welfare
Offering families and caregivers support, counseling and resources critical to a child’s well-being.
The Martinez-Aguirre Family
“I see a difference between them and others not in the program. They’re learning basic skills like being the line leader or the door holder. Other kids don’t know their letters and numbers.”
Early Childhood Professional Development Opportunities
We offer a variety of nationally-recognized professional development opportunities for people who work with young children including Quality First Coaching and Assessment, Smart Support Mental Health Consultation, Birth to Five Helpline for Professionals, and Language and Learning Initiatives.
STAY IN THE KNOW
Join our email list and stay up to date on upcoming events, professional development trainings, news and more.
Helping Arizona Children & Families
With your support we can do even more