Build Team Competencies
Working with babies, toddlers, and their families takes more than passion—it takes specific knowledge and skills. That’s what Prenatal to Age 5 (P-5) Competencies training is all about.

This flexible, self-paced course is perfect for onboarding new staff or providing continuing education for experienced professionals. Because whether you're just starting out or have years in the field, this training helps strengthen your ability to support young children and their families across different systems.
This course was created by ZERO TO THREE in partnership with First 5 LA, based on what professionals actually need to do their work better—and together. It’s designed to help teams build shared language, improve coordination, and deliver stronger services across sectors.
Who should take this training?
This training is a great fit for:
- IECMH clinicians and therapists
- Child development specialists
- Social workers supporting young children and families
- Early childhood educators and program leaders
- Home visitors, family support staff, and care coordinators
What will you learn?
The training focuses on eight key areas that are essential for anyone working with children from pregnancy to age 5:
- Early childhood development
- Family-centered practice
- Building strong, respectful relationships
- Understanding health risks and protective factors
- Cultural and language responsiveness
- Leading efforts that meet family needs
- Professional ethics and reflective practice
- Coordinating and collaborating with other services
What’s included in the training?
The training focuses on eight key areas that are essential for anyone working with children from pregnancy to age 5:
8 self-paced, advanced-level online lessons
Online discussions for reflection and peer feedback
Community-of-practice sessions for deeper support
Optional fieldwork to help apply what you’ve learned
I looked at the baby in my arms and saw that he was looking right at me. He had always been looking at me. I suddenly realized that all the babies I had fed over the years were looking at me and that I had missed those opportunities. I felt so sorry to have missed those moments and vowed to never miss another. Thank you for creating this training that helped me to see this.
Ava, early childhood professional
Register your team from 1-100 with flexible 6- and 12-month licenses. Seats are non transferable. Complete this form to see your custom pricing and get started:
Trainings & Events
We offer professional development opportunities grounded in early brain science, infant and early childhood mental health, and more, delivered through workshops, conferences, virtual events, and group training tailored to elevate the collective expertise of teams.
Content & Resources
ZERO TO THREE provides an extensive library of resources for early childhood professionals across all disciplines, with exclusive content and discounts on books and trainings available to Members, empowering them to elevate their practice.

DC:0–5™ Manual and Training

ZERO TO THREE Critical Competencies for Infant-Toddler Educators™

Virtual Event Archive

IECMH Training Suite

The Growing Brain: From Birth to 5 Years Old, A Training Curriculum for Early Childhood Professionals
Don't miss our early childhood conference.
Join us for idea-sharing, actionable takeaways, new inspiration and old friends. Together, we will move the early childhood field forward.