What are The Basics?

The Basics are five simple, science-based ways to help your child learn and grow through everyday moments. Small things you already do — talking, singing, reading, counting, and playing — make a big difference. Before kindergarten, 90% of brain development happens, making the early years especially important.

Just a few simple things each day can help your child learn and grow.

The 5 Basics Principles

Maximize Love, Manage Stress

Babies and toddlers thrive when their world feels loving, safe, and predictable. Respond with smiles, words, and touch to help them see, hear, and feel your love. You will help them develop a sense of security and self-control.

Talk, Sing and Point

Babies learn language from the moment they are born. Respond to their sounds, and later, their words. Connect with eye contact and a loving tone of voice, while pointing to help them know what you are talking about.

Count, Group, and Compare

Every child’s brain is wired for math. Talk about numbers, shapes, patterns, and comparisons as you go about your routines together. Watch your child learn to love math.

Explore Through Movement and Play

Babies are like scientists who love making discoveries. Watch to see what interests your child, then encourage their curiosity and help them learn when they play and explore.

Read and Discuss Stories

Reading turns kids into confident thinkers. Make books a regular part of your relationship from the very beginning. With infants, point at the pictures and speak with excitement. With toddlers, just make it fun.

Start Using the Basics at Home

You can do The Basics everywhere!

At the grocery store

“Let’s count apples”

In the car

“What do you see outside?”

At bedtime

“Let’s read one more story”

The Basics Insights

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. Messages are made for North Carolina families.

97% of people enrolled agree that the messages keep them thinking about how to help their child develop and learn.

84% of individuals use most or all of the messages.

Sign-Up for Basics Insights Today!

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.

›› Click here to sign-up! ‹‹