MILFORD — The Step Forward Center for Discovery & Learning, operated by The Courageous Steps Project, is proud to announce the expansion of its early childhood programs starting Sept. 1. New program options will include morning, afternoon and full-day sessions — meeting the needs of more families across Eastern Maine.
The Step Forward Center, a is known for its inclusive, play-based and child-led approach to early learning, welcoming children ages 2.5 to 5 from diverse backgrounds and abilities. The center provides a nurturing environment where children develop essential social-emotional and early academic skills, supported by a dedicated team of certified educators, therapists and professionals.
This year’s expansion is driven by high demand and growing need in this region for inclusive environments. To meet this need, The Courageous Steps Project is moving forward with plans to expand into a future state-of-the-art center, tripling the center’s enrollment capacity — growing from 20 to at least 60 children — and adding specialized therapy spaces, early intervention services for 2 year-olds, and building partnerships with higher education institutions to strengthen Maine’s early childhood and human services workforce.
“We believe every child deserves an inclusive opportunity to grow, thrive, and succeed,” said Connor Archer, founder & chair/CEO of The Courageous Steps Project. “This expansion will help us do more of that, while also creating a state-of-the-art space for services, collaboration and community building.”
Families may qualify for financial support through programs like Child Care Affordability Program, HOPE Scholarship, MaineCare Section 28, Child Development Services and local school district programs. Placements are first come, first serve and enrollment for 2025 is open now.
The center currently serves children from communities including Bangor, Old Town, Orono, Brewer, Milford, Bradley, Greenbush and beyond.
To schedule a tour or learn more about enrolling your child, visit www.stepforwardcenter.org or call 207-827-7270.
