New and improved: First Steps has been refreshed to make registration and learning easier.

First Steps adoption readiness course

Prepare for adoption at your own pace

First Steps is a free online course for people thinking about adoption, with expert guidance, real-life case studies, audio lessons and quizzes. Be a better prepared parent. Read More…

First Steps gives you practical insight into the adoption journey, including children’s early experiences, attachment, identity, transitions and family life.

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.

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

IDENTITY, HERITAGE AND LIFE STORY WORK

There is an imbalance of ethnic backgrounds between prospective adopters and children waiting to be placed.

Illustration of nested dolls representing identity and life story
audio 20 mins

CHALLENGES AND TRANSITIONS TO NEW SITUATIONS

The day of placement is a hugely significant point of transition for everyone, but particularly the child.

Illustration representing moving into an adoptive family
audio 10 mins

First Steps is not an adoption website but a pre-adoption training website. If you want to find out more about how you can adopt, please go to First4Adoption.

Illustration of an adoptive father with a child

Register with First Steps

Register, and you'll be able to access more of what you need to know — whether you're researching or actively preparing for your formal adoptive training.

  • Add to your readiness to become an adoptive parent
  • Read and listen — on desktop, tablet and mobile
  • Listen to our experts and adopters
  • Save your progress
  • Test yourself and demonstrate your understanding
Register now — it's free

What is First Steps?

First Steps is a free online pre-adoption training course from First4Adoption for people considering adoption in England. It introduces key topics including children’s early experiences, attachment, trauma, identity, contact and adoptive family life.

First Steps has been online since 2014 and has supported thousands of prospective adopters through free pre-adoption learning.

Who is it for?
Prospective adopters who want to understand adoption before or during formal preparation.
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.