It's obvious. Young children benefit from stable, caring, and supportive relationships during their formative years. In fact, brain research is compelling: 90 percent of a child’s academic and life potential is shaped by the neural connections formed before his or her 4th birthday — connections stimulated by safe, interactive care.

We know that early investment is better — for the children, and for South Carolina.

At First Steps, where the focus is South Carolina’s 340,000 children under age 6, we are working to ensure that each of South Carolina’s children is prepared to reach his or her full potential. Harnessing the talents of our many partners, First Steps continues to use data to identify children most at-risk for school failure, and to provide them with early learning supports that make the difference for school and life success.

By targeting services where they are needed most and ensuring programs are well-coordinated statewide, First Steps is making a difference for families in every community. With an intentional focus on improving the odds for our youngest children, we are assuring the Palmetto State’s bright future.

My thanks for all you do to support South Carolina’s children,



Susan DeVenny
Director
South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness