Programs

This project helps licensed child care programs increase the level of star rated licensure and the level of provider education. Professional Development services are also available for facilities that complete an Educational Facility Plan. Teachers in these facilities who are attending school may be eligible for Educational

Awards. 

Raising A Reader helps child care providers work with families to build and maintain the home-based language and literacy experiences young children need for later school success. By rotating high-quality children’s literature into homes each week, Raising A Reader’s research-based program helps children and parents

develop the habit of “book cuddling.” Families also build connections to libraries that result in lasting family literacy habits and improved outcomes for children. 

Reach Out & Read prepares America’s youngest children to succeed by partnering with doctors to prescribe books and encourages families to read together. At each well-child visit, children between the age of six months and five years receive brand new, age and developmentally appropriate books to keep and their parents receive guidance on the importance of reading aloud to their children. 

This activity provides early identification of special needs and enhances the provision of early intervention services to ensure positive outcomes for all children ages birth to five in child care settings. 

For assistance, call 910-618-9260.

This scholarship program provides assistance with the cost of child care to qualified parents with children ages birth to five. 

For assistance, call 910-642-3178.

Expectant mothers and children ages

birth to five who are not eligible for Medicaid reimbursable transportation can be transported to and from medical appointments. 

For assistance, call Joy Jacobs at 910-642-7201

This project provides child care professionals with education-based salary supplements and addresses teacher turnover and increased teacher educational levels. 

For assistance, call 919-967-3272.

The Early Learning Facility provides child development resources which parents and providers can use to enhance the early care and education of young children. A variety of children’s books, videos, topic resource books, resource kits and toys, a computer with Internet access and other resources are available to library members at a nominal fee. Training and workshops are offered as well as consumer materials in Spanish. 

For assistance, call 910-212-6352.

Smart Start and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library are working together to get books into the hands of North Carolina’s youngest children. This program is made possible through funding appropriated by the North Carolina Legislature.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a 60 volume set of books that will be offered FREE of charge to children living in Columbus County. Each month, children ages birth to five, who are registered for the program will receive a brand new book mailed directly to their homes.

All preschool-aged children, ages birth to five, who are residents of Columbus County are eligible to participate. Parents or guardians must register their children in order for them to participate.

​Register online at:

www.imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/NCPCCOLUMBUS/​

Questions about registering for the Imagination Library should be directed to the Smart Start Early Learning Facility (ELF), 910-212-6352