What are The Basics?

Science shows that 80% of brain growth happens by the age of three! Beginning from birth, young brains develop like little muscles, getting bigger and stronger the more you and your family interact with your child. The Basics are five fun, simple, and powerful ways to make sure that every child gets a great start in life.

Why Should I Sign Up for the Newsletter?

Everyday interactions between children, their parents, and other caregivers provide plenty of opportunities to give children from every background an equal start in life. The Basics are five evidence-based parenting and caregiving principles that include much of what experts find is important for children from birth to age five. The newsletter will share tips on including The Basics in daily routines.

Registration is now open for MECK Pre-K! All children residing in Mecklenburg County who will be four years old on or before August 31, 2023, are eligible for the 2023-2024 school year. Experts agree that anything parents or caregivers can do to prepare children for kindergarten, including enrolling in a pre-k program, can provide a strong foundation for academic success. Click below to learn more about this high quality, free pre-k program.

Smart Start of Mecklenburg County is proud to celebrate 30 years of mobilizing resources, forging partnerships, and supporting families to improve early childhood health, education, and development. Click the link below to learn more about how you or your organization can become a sponsor!

We invite you to celebrate our 30th anniversary by downloading our new Smart Start of Mecklenburg County app for iOS and Android. Our mobile app is designed to connect Mecklenburg County families and professionals to resources now at your fingertips.