The earliest years of childhood are critical. Experiences during this time literally shape the structure of the brain. Because today's children are tomorrow's leaders, parents and workers, everyone has a stake in making sure that all children have the experiences they need to thrive. Smart Start brings together all the people involved in a young child's life - families, teachers, doctors, caregivers, social workers and many other - to ensure every child has all they need for healthy growth and development.

Donate Now!

Smart Start of New Hanover County seeks to build bridges to develop, sustain and enhance health, family support and early education services for all children, ages birth to five.

"The foundations of social competence that are developed in the first five years are...[the] same social skills [that] are essential for the formation of lasting friendships and intimate relationships, effective parenting, the ability to hold a job and work well with others and for becoming a contributing member of a cummunity."

- National Scientific Council on the Developing Child
("Children's Emotional Development Is Built into the Architecture of Their Brains," April 2004)