The Basics

The Basics, Inc. grew out of the Achievement Gap Initiative at Harvard University in partnership with the Black Philanthropy Fund in Boston. Their mission is to bolster brain development for social, emotional, and cognitive skill building among children from birth to age 3 as a sturdy foundation for school readiness across whole communities. Watch the videos below to find our more about the five principles of The Basics.

Watch this short video to find out more: The Basics – Overview Video

 

What are The Basics Principles?

 

Maximize Love, Manage Stress

Babies and toddlers thrive when their world feels loving, safe, and predictable. Respond with smiles, words, and touch to help them see, hear, and feel your love. You will help them develop a sense of security and self-control.

Watch this short video to find out more: Maximize Love, Manage Stress

 

 

 

Talk, Sing, and Point

Babies learn language from the moment they are born. Respond to their sounds, and later, their words. Connect with eye contact and a loving tone of voice, while pointing to help them know what you are talking about.

Watch this short video to find out more: Talk, Sing, & Point

 

 

 

 

Count, Group, and Compare

Every child’s brain is wired for math. Talk about numbers, shapes, patterns, and comparisons as you go about your routines together. Watch your child learn to love math.

Watch this short video to find out more: Count, Group, & Compare

 

 

 

 

 

Explore Through Movement and Play

Babies are like scientists who love making discoveries. Watch to see what interests your child, then encourage their curiosity and help them learn when they play and explore.

Watch this short video to find out more: Explore Through Movement & Play

 

 

 

 

 

Read and Discuss Stories

Reading turns kids into confident thinkers. Make books a regular part of your relationship from the very beginning. With infants, point at the pictures and speak with excitement. With toddlers, just make it fun.

Watch this short video to find out more: Read and Discuss Stories

 

 

 

Watch: The Basics Caregiver’s Promise

Inspire commitments from new parents and caregivers with this poem from the perspective of a fellow caregiver. The narrator recites a set of promises to their new baby, linked to each of the five Basics.