Building Brighter Futures for Children in Rural Nepal
Since 2009, First Steps Himalaya has been transforming rural schools into safe, vibrant, and child-friendly spaces. We believe every child deserves a joyful start to learning—one that sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and lays the foundation for lifelong success.
Above: Srijansheel School Nuwakot before and after our project
Why It Matters
The early years are critical for brain development, shaping a child’s future learning and success. Yet in rural Nepal, many classrooms are empty and under-resourced, leaving children unprepared for school and life.
Our programme changes that—transforming classrooms into safe, vibrant spaces and giving children the stimulating start they deserve.
Our Approach: Creating Dynamic Learning Environments
We believe the learning environment is just as important as the lessons taught within it. Our programme focuses on transforming empty or under-resourced schools into engaging, child-friendly spaces where children feel safe, motivated, and eager to learn.
What We Do
Classroom Refurbishment: Upgrading walls, floors, and furniture to create clean, welcoming, and safe classrooms.
Learning Materials & Storybook: Providing books, puzzles, toys, art supplies, and sensory play items that are age-appropriate, durable, and culturally relevant. We have also published and distribute our own culturally appropriate storybook, Sita’s Search, which helps children develop literacy, spark imagination, and connect with their heritage—all while training teachers to create additional local resources.
Child-Friendly Design: Organising classrooms into “learning corners” such as literacy, numeracy, creative arts, and quiet reading spaces to encourage creativity, collaboration, and engagement.
Sustainability: Ensuring resources are long-lasting and improvements benefit schools for years to come.
Early Years Support
Early Learning Support
Our School Support programmes reach children aged 2–7 years through:
Playgroups: Interactive, play-based sessions that foster curiosity, social skills, and early learning.
Early Childhood Development (ECD) Classes: Structured activities that promote cognitive, physical, and emotional development.
Early Primary Support: Supplementary resources and guidance to help children succeed in the first years of school.
The Impact
The schools we select for this programme become engaging, stimulating learning environments. Children enjoy their lessons, attendance improves, and teachers can focus on delivering high-quality education. Storybooks like Sita’s Search inspire reading and storytelling while reflecting local culture and traditions.
These upgrades provide a strong foundation for future learning and personal development.
Your donation can help us turn classrooms into safe, inspiring spaces where children in rural Nepal can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Get Involved
Help us turn empty classrooms into safe, inspiring spaces where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
