New York State Council on Children and Families

The Council on Children and Families (CCF) is a New York State agency that serves as a convener, innovator, and change agent among the state’s health, education, and human services agencies. strengthens the connections between the NYS service systems that support children and families.
The “Starting Life Together” book is a resource created by the New York State Council on Children and Families (CCF) and the New York State Education Department’s Partnership for Early Childhood Education (NYSPEP). It offers guidance for parents and caregivers on the first five years of parenting, focusing on child development and evidence-based practices.
Ruth&Co. was commissioned to create the guide. This 120-page spiral-bound book serves as both a comprehensive resource for families navigating every stage of prenatal and early childcare, and a personal journal where parents can record milestones, capture memories, and reflect on their unique parenting journey. In addition to providing practical tips, checklists, and dedicated space for documenting important events, the guide is designed as a keepsake that families can cherish for years to come. Its accessible, well-organized content empowers parents to actively participate in their child’s development and confidently access available support systems. By blending evidence-based information with opportunities for personal reflection, the guide ensures that all parents—whether new or experienced—can find relevant advice, encouragement, and a sense of belonging as they move through the early years of parenthood.