Apply to First Steps
We welcome new children year-round. Our goal is to make the enrollment process as simple, transparent, and equitable as possible.
How we assign spots
Childcare spots are generally offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with a few exceptions we like to be upfront about:
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Siblings of currently enrolled children may receive priority.
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Openings within specific age groups (like older children) might accelerate some applicants.
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Infant classrooms often have much longer wait times due to limited class size. This is mostly because the state ratio for infants is 1 provider per 4 infants.
Our Enrollment Steps
1. Application & Waitlist Fee
Submit your New StudentApplication
via the Brightwheel App and your $50 non-refundable waitlist fee.
2. Watch Waitlist & Tour
Watch our online waitlist for updates, and while you are waiting, review our center handbook, and schedule a tour.
3. Receive a
Start Date
Once a slot is open, we'll send you a start date* and a digital packet to fill out about your child.
* Want to ease in? You can begin with up to a week of half-days to help your child adjust.
4. Before the
First Day
Before their first day, set up your payments in the Brightwheel app and pay one week of tuition.
You'll also receive first day instructions from staff.
1. Application & Fee
Submit your New Student Application via the Brightwheel App and your $50 non-refundable waitlist fee.
2. Watch Waitlist & Tour
Watch our online waitlist for updates, and while you are waiting, review our center handbook, and schedule a tour.
3. Recieve a Start Date
Once a slot is open, we'll send you a start date* and a digital packet to fill out about your child.
* Want to ease in? You can begin with up to a week of half-days to help your child adjust.
4. Before the First Day
Before their first day, set up your payments in the Brightwheel app and pay one week of tuition.
You'll also receive first day instructions from staff.
Submit an Application
New Child Applications are submitted through our Brightwheel App — the same app you'll use to communicate with us once your child has a start date. Download it after applying to stay connected.
A $50 non-refundable fee is required to join the waitlist. Think of it as your handshake with us — a sign you're serious about enrolling, and a way to keep our waitlist fair for every family.
First Steps Childhood Learning Center is a trusted daycare in Atchison, Kansas providing nurturing care and programs for children from birth to age 12.
Locations
First Steps on Main
1427 Main
Atchison, KS 66002
First Steps (coming 2026)
1926 N. 2nd
Atchison, KS 66002
Contact Us
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