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First Steps has been refreshed to make registration and learning easier — now with Fostering subjects.

First Steps adoption and fostering preparation courses

Prepare for adoption or fostering at your own pace

First Steps provides free online learning for people considering adoption, fostering or both, with expert guidance, real-life case studies, audio lessons and quizzes. Be better prepared to care for a child. Read More…

First Steps gives you practical insight into children's early experiences, attachment, identity, transitions and family life, with separate Adoption and Fostering courses.

The course is designed to fit around everyday life. You can browse first, then register when you want to save your progress and test your knowledge with quizzes.

Take your First Steps by selecting one of the exercises below. To access all material you'll simply need to register — all we need is an email address, which we’ll keep safe.

Adoption subjects

Try one of these sample subjects

BACKGROUNDS OF CHILDREN AND WHY THEY COME INTO CARE

The neglect of children is now recognised as a major contributor to emotional harm.

Illustration representing neglect and children's early experiences
audio 7 mins

ATTACHMENT AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN ADOPTION

Babies and children develop a pattern of attachment based on their experiences with their primary caregivers.

Illustration of a child holding an adult's hand
audio 12 mins

View all Adoption subjects

Fostering subjects

Try one of these sample subjects

Reasons why some children need foster homes

Understand how neglect can affect a child’s wellbeing, safety and trust—and how fostering can help them feel secure.

Fostering: Illustration representing neglect and children's early experiences
audio 9 minutes

Attachment and Child Development and Its Importance in Fostering

Understand how trauma can affect development, behaviour and trust, and how everyday relationships help children feel safer.

Fostering: Illustration of a child holding an adult's hand
text 9 minutes

View all Fostering subjects

Illustration of a parent with a child

Register with First Steps

Register for Adoption, Fostering or both and continue through the complete First Steps courses at your own pace.

  • Build your readiness to become an adoptive or foster parent.
  • Read and listen — on desktop, tablet and mobile.
  • Hear from experts, experienced adopters and foster carers.
  • Save your progress.
  • Test yourself and demonstrate your understanding.
Register now — it's free

What is First Steps?

First Steps provides free online preparation for people considering adoption, fostering or both. It introduces key topics including children’s early experiences, attachment, trauma, identity, contact, transitions and family life.

Each course records progress separately, while one account can provide access to both.

Common questions about First Steps
Who is it for?
People considering adoption, fostering or both who want to understand important preparation topics.
Is it free?
Yes. You can preview the first modules and register free to save progress, use quizzes and continue through the course.
How long does it take?
You can work through the lessons in your own time on desktop, tablet or mobile.
Can I use both courses?
Yes. Choose Adoption, Fostering or both when you register, and add another course later if your plans change.