The NC Pre-K Program is a program of the Division of Child Development and Early Education in the NC Department of Health and Human Services.NC Pre-K is funded by the state of North Carolina and is free to eligible families.

The NC Pre-K Program is designed to provide high-quality educational experiences to enhance school readiness for eligible four-year-olds. The goal of NC Pre-K is to reach at- risk children and give them a chance to grow socially and educationally before entering kindergarten. ​

Healthy Habits for Harnett

Healthy Habits for Harnett is a multifaceted approach to help reduce childhood obesity in Harnett County.  This activity provides training, technical assistance, community leadership and education focusing on the issues related to early childhood obesity (specifically nutrition, physical activity, outdoor learning environments, and screen time) in child care settings in the community.  This project implements the Be Active Kids Program: assisting families and child care providers with children birth to five by increasing their knowledge of best practices in the areas of health and nutrition.  In child care facilities, the Health Activity Specialist will provide onsite technical assistance and training utilizing the GO NAP SACC tool to assess needs.  For information on how you can participate in Healthy Habits for Harnett, please contact us at info@harnettsmartstart.org or 910-893-2344.

Circle of Parents

The Circle of Parents program will offer family support services to families who reside in Harnett County with children ages birth to five. Family support services will include parent education, support groups and resources which may focus on appropriate discipline, safety, child development, early literacy and school readiness/transition.

For more information, contact info@harnettsmartstart.org or call 910-893-2344.

Ready to Grow Playgroups

Ready to Grow will facilitate developmentally appropriate play groups for children and caregivers who reside in Harnett County. Eligible children must be between the ages of birth through 5 years old and not enrolled in full time regulated child care facility. Priority will be given to children who demonstrate delays in one or more developmental domains. Playgroups will meet twice weekly for a minimum of 90 minutes. Playgroups are offered in various accessible locations throughout Harnett County. Playgroup facilitators use Kaleidoscope Curriculum to provide hands on activities that focus on early literacy and social emotional competency. Caregivers learn about the purpose of play and will connect with other parents during group time. Children and caregivers will participate in coordinated group activities.