Children who participate in high-quality early learning environments are more likely to enter school with strong language, math, and social-emotional skills. These environments are grounded in responsive relationships, engaging and age-appropriate learning experiences, and safe, healthy settings where children can grow and thrive.

Through the work of Smart Start, investments are made to strengthen and expand access to high-quality early care and education across North Carolina. This includes supporting increased access to NC Pre-K, expanding resources for infants and toddlers, and advancing the education, compensation, and stability of the early childhood workforce.

By focusing on these key areas, Smart Start helps ensure more children have access to nurturing, high-quality learning experiences during their most critical years of development. These efforts not only prepare children for kindergarten, but also support the relationships and environments that are essential to healthy development and lifelong success.