You Are the First Teacher
A Parent's Guide to Building Strong Learners — empowering families to nurture academic brilliance from the very beginning.
Available now in PDF · ePub
What You'll Discover Inside
Early Learning Foundations
Understand how your child learns and how to nurture curiosity, language, and critical thinking from infancy through the early grades.
Parent–School Partnership
Build powerful relationships with teachers and schools so your child receives the individualized support and advocacy they deserve.
Tools for Every Child
Practical, research-backed strategies rooted in 30+ years of classroom and special education expertise — designed for real families.
About the Author
Gia J. Cheeks, M.Ed.
Educator · Author · Consultant
With over 30 years spanning classroom teaching, special education leadership, district administration (including NYC DOE), and early childhood curriculum work, Gia founded NABE Education Consulting to empower families and educators alike. Her work bridges deep research and real-life experience — giving parents the knowledge and confidence to be their child's greatest teacher, from day one.
30+ years in education
What Readers Are Saying
"I wish I had this book when my kids were little. Gia breaks down what good learning actually looks like at home — no jargon, just real, doable guidance that made me feel confident as a parent for the first time."
— Mother of two, Virginia
"As a kindergarten teacher, I recommend this to every family at back-to-school night. It's the missing link between what we do in the classroom and what parents can do at home. Genuinely transformative."
— Kindergarten Teacher, Maryland
"My son has an IEP, and this book helped me understand his learning in a completely new way. Gia's background in special education comes through on every page — compassionate, practical, and empowering."
— Special Education Parent, New York
"I've read a lot of parenting and education books. This one stands out. It respects parents as intelligent partners in their child's education and gives us real tools — not just feel-good platitudes."
— Father & School Counselor, DC
Your Child's Future Starts With You
Join families across the country investing in their child's lifelong love of learning.
✓ Available now in PDF & ePub
Mobi, Kindle & Print editions coming soon