The Basics
The Basics is a national movement dedicated to giving every child the best possible start in life. The mission is to equip every adult with simple, research-based tools that help children learn, grow, and thrive from birth.
Research shows that approximately 80% of brain development occurs by age three and 90% by age five, making the early years a critical window for learning and development. The Basics empowers parents and caregivers with practical, science-backed strategies that maximize love, build knowledge, and create joyful interactions that lay the foundation for lifelong learning.
Through this initiative, the Iredell County Partnership for Young Children continues its commitment to closing early childhood opportunity gaps by ensuring that all families - regardless of background or resources - have access to the knowledge and tools needed to give our children a strong start in life.
The Basics Principles
The Basics Principles are five fun, simple, and powerful ways to connect with your child and help them reach their full potential. Supporting healthy brain development does not require expensive programs or specialized training. Everyday moments between children and the adults who care for them—whether talking during mealtime, reading a book together, or playing while running errands—provide meaningful opportunities to build strong brains and lifelong skills.
The Basics and Smart Start
As a member of North Carolina's Smart Start Network, the Iredell County Partnership for Young Children is proud to bring The Basics NC to families throughout Iredell County.
The Basics is a nationally recognized movement led by The Basics, Inc., a Boston-based nonprofit and member of the Basics Learning Network. Through the Smart Start Network, The Basics NC brings this proven approach to communities across North Carolina, helping ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Locally, the Iredell County Partnership for Young Children is integrating The Basics into our comprehensive early childhood efforts by equipping parents, caregivers, educators, and community members with five simple, science-based principles that support healthy brain development and school readiness from birth to age five.
Together, we are building a community where everyday interactions help children learn, grow, and thrive.
For more information, contact Peyton Barrows at
pbarrows@icpyc.org or 704.838.0742.
Learn and Grow With Your Child
Enroll today! Basics Insights is a free text messaging platform for parents and caregivers of young children that sends science-based tips to boost your child’s development. By enrolling in Basics Insights text messaging you will receive 2-3 text messages a week.
- Text 1: Includes a fact about your child’s development
- Text 2: a tip for incorporating more child development into your daily routine
- Text 3: a custom North Carolina message that will provide information, local resources, and supports.