More families with young children have access to, and are participating in, high quality child care programs in both Beaufort and Hyde counties.
And, the programs are showing promise in moving these child care programs upward. As the programs increase in size, the benefit for the children, their families and the children’s living environments grow toward self-fulfillment.
“Smart Start data shows continued improvement in child care quality in these two counties,” said Lisa Woolard, executive director of the Beaufort/Hyde Partnership for Children. “This definitely says that the new year starts with good news for parents in both counties.”
The North Carolina Partnership for Children Inc. leads the state Smart Start program and evaluates local and statewide progress every December.
Data released after the evaluation process this December offers a snapshot of how Smart Start’s numerous programs are going statewide.
Smart Start is North Carolina’s early childhood leadership network dedicated to assuring that every child reaches his or her potential and is prepared for success in a globally competitive world.
Since 2001 in Beaufort County, the Smart Start program increased 28 percentage points when identifying the number of children enrolled in high quality child care.
In Hyde County, the increase was 13 percentage points since 2001.
“These numbers reflect an improvement in child care quality and an increase in the number of children enrolled in high quality programs,” Woolard said. “We are very proud of this and are working to keep on moving.”
Currently, 70 percent of Beaufort County children and 60 percent of Hyde County children in child care are enrolled in the highest quality programs.
“This is really great news for the children of Beaufort and Hyde counties,” said Stephanie Fanjul, president of North Carolina Partnership for Children. “Not only are young children experiencing improved care, but families seeking child care are better able to find high quality programs.”
Woolard said that the Beaufort/Hyde Partnership for Children actively works with child care programs throughout the county to improve the quality of child care.
First of all, she said the partnership assesses center quality. Then, it recommends changes where it thinks there are needs for changes. In conclusion, the partnership extends its arms to help child care teachers continue their education.