First Steps
Early Intervention Program
We are excited to introduce First Steps Navigation, a hybrid parenting and early intervention program, designed for families with children ages 6–60 months.
Through guided play coaching, virtual parenting sessions, developmental screenings, CPR training, and personalized resource navigation, the program helps parents strengthen their connection with their child while supporting healthy social-emotional development and early intervention.
This program is proudly funded by Ventura County Behavioral Health through the Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA)
Meet The Program Team
Parenting Coach & Family Navigator
Megan Fehte, LMFT, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, parent, and board member of Childhood Matters, a nonprofit dedicated to early intervention and expanding access to mental health support for children and families. With more than 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, Megan specializes in supporting emotional development, anxiety, life transitions, parent-child connection, and social-emotional growth.
Her approach is warm, collaborative, and relationship-based, with a strong belief that children thrive when the adults supporting them feel informed, connected, and empowered. In addition to providing therapy,Megan offers parent consultation and guidance to help families better understand their children's emotional and developmental needs.
Play Coach
& Program Lead
Shaleena Tareen is the founder and president of Childhood Matters, a children’s author, and an early childhood education professional with more than 25 years of experience. Throughout her career, she has worked as both a teacher and preschool director, creating nurturing learning environments and supporting the growth and development of young children. Her experience working closely with children, parents, and educators has shaped her belief in the importance of early intervention, emotional wellness, and strong family partnerships.
Shaleena provides engaging mental health and social-emotional wellness workshops for students, as well as specialized trainings for parents, educators, counselors, and community professionals. Her work equips participants with practical tools to understand emotions, strengthen coping skills, support children experiencing challenges, and create safer, more responsive learning environments
Play Coach
Shelley holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and is continually seeking opportunities to grow in her field. She is also the proud mother of two amazing adult children, a role she considers her greatest teacher, shaping the empathy, patience, and joy she brings into every aspect of her life and work.
Passionate about building strong partnerships with families, Shelley is committed to creating spaces where both children and parents can thrive. She continues this journey with warmth, wisdom, and heart in all that she does.
With a dedicated career of 30 years, focused on the growth and development of children ages two to five, Shelley believes in the power of play, discovery, and meaningful connection. She is committed to creating safe, inclusive environments where every child feels loved, seen, and empowered to learn.
Outreach Coordinator
Ayla is a Youth Mental Health Ambassador and Events Coordinator with Childhood Matters. She has supported the Playful Bonds program, working directly with children and families to help create a welcoming and engaging environment.
Ayla also leads community outreach for Childhood Matters programs, helping connect families, schools, and community members with Childhood Matters services and resources. She brings dedication, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for strengthening the community through meaningful connections.
Program Registration
First Steps Cohort 1 (6mths-18 mths)Sat, Sep 19Newbury Park- First Steps Cohort 1 (19mths-35mths)Sat, Sep 19Newbury Park
- First Steps Cohort 1 (36 - 60 mths)Sat, Sep 19Newbury Park