Building on their experience, expertise, and vision, Oak Harbor’s Toddler Learning Center is evolving – taking steps to expand resources and services to meet the needs of children and their families. And they’ve changed their name to Steps.

We spoke with Rene Denman, Steps Executive Director:

Why did you decide to rename TLC?

“The Toddler Learning Center name and brand has created confusion, with many people assuming we were a daycare center.”

What type of services do you offer?

“We provide early support services for children ages birth to 36 months who have developmental delays in communication, social skills, fine or gross motor skills, adaptive behavior, and/or cognitive development.

Our comprehensive, compassionate, family centered approach builds on our deep experience and expertise, utilizing best practices in special education, specialized therapies, nursing, and social work.

Our services include Pediatric Neuro Development, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Feeding Therapy, Infant and early childhood Mental Health Therapy, parent/caregiver support and infant toddler education, We will soon be introducing ABA services to support children with Autism.”

How do you deliver those services?

“Parent/caregiver coaching is a foundational component of our evidence-based home visit model. We define customized services to help meet the unique needs of children with developmental delays and their families.

Engaging parents, caregivers, and entire families in this collaborative, strength-based, and interactive process helps improve their confidence and ability to support their child’s progress in reaching milestones now and in the future.

Our new name, Steps, reflects that collaborative approach. We’re taking steps together with families, caregivers, and community members to provide the guidance, tools, and resources they need to grow, learn, and thrive.

Plus, our service area has expanded beyond Whidbey Island to include San Juan County, and as of July 1st we’re adding Anacortes.”

For more information: Whether you want to learn more, request an assessment for services or contribute to their mission, visit their new website at takingstepstogether.org, email steps@takingstepstogether.org or call 360-679-1039.