First Encounters, LLC spearheaded an art and literacy experience for economically challenged babies and their parents at Baby University in Toledo, Ohio. Community college students are trained to implement our art viewing curriculum as a launchpad for early literacy learning. Using tier-two vocabulary, students describe the artwork to the child, pointing out colors, shapes, and textures. Sensory materials related to the work of art are then explored with the baby. The session ends with the student and baby reading a related picture book together. Parents join in at the end of the experience and learn how to extend the art & literacy learning at home.