The early years of a child's education, ages birth through five, are the most critical in a child's development. In fact, ninety percent of a child's intellect, personality and social skills are formed by age three. Studies consistently show that children who experience high-quality, stable child care demonstrate better language and math skills, are more able to form secure attachments with adults and other children, and develop better cognitive and social skills.

Smart Start Georgia was established as the Georgia Early Learning Initiative (GELI) in 1999 to develop and implement a long-term plan to increase school readiness in Georgia with the aim of having all children ready to succeed in school by the time they enter kindergarten.

In 2003, GELI changed its name to Smart Start Georgia to reflect the outcome of its initiatives - which provide a smart start for all of Georgia's children. Smart Start is a public/private partnership among the State of Georgia, the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation, United Ways of Georgia, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, and more than 40 additional supporting organizations.

Through innovative programs and outreach initiatives, Smart Start is working to improve the quality of early care and education for all children ages birth through five, promoting lifetime learning and ensuring greater achievement throughout the child's education and beyond.

Want to know about the work United Way is doing on early childhood care and education? Read our one page summary. (pdf)

For more information: 1877 startga (1.877.782.7842)

Contact: Sharen L. Hausmann (info@smartstartga.org)