A Good Foundations Starts With the Basics
The Basics Houston
The Basics Houston
As a nationally-recognized affiliate of the Basics Learning Network, The Basics Houston is a collective movement supporting early learning and development. We offer training and resources that integrate 5 simple principles to foster healthy brain development.
Launched by the Houston Health Department, The Basics Houston aims to improve the quality of life for Houston’s children. With a public health perspective, we focus on family and community while incorporating the latest research to address disparities and implement innovative solutions. Through partnerships, The Basics Houston offers tools and resources to support parents in nurturing their baby’s brain development with love.
Maximize Love, Manage Stress.
Hold your child close to you. Listen to the different sounds for clues as to what your child needs. Always make eye contact with your child. Have a routine. Involve them.
Talk, Sing, and Point
Use a playful voice. Point at an object you’re talking about. Talk and point while walking down the street, on the bus, in the car. Sing songs while making dinner, getting dressed, and ready for bed.
Count, Group, and Compare
Name shapes. Use math words. Compare one object to another (shapes/sizes). Count cars that go by, blocks as you walk, or people on the bus.
Explore Through Read Movement & Play
Begin tummy time. Play peek-a-boo. Give your child things to hold. Let your child hold different items throughout the day to touch, hold, and smell. Set aside a few minutes each day to play a game.
Read and Discuss Stories
Speak with expression. Read every day. Describe the pictures (remember to point!) Read to your child for a few minutes every day. Ask your child about stories you read. Let them touch the book, turn the pages, and examine the picture
10,000
Local Children
over 10,000 parents integrate simple brain-
building practices into their daily routines
50
Partnerships
Formed partnerships with over 50 local organizations, including schools, libraries, and healthcare providers
2,500
Keep It Kits
love for reading and literacy
Every parent of every background can make a positive difference in their child’s life
Ronald Ferguson, Director,
The Achievement Gap Initiative Harvard University
Our Brilliant
Futures Partners
At the Houston Health Foundation, transforming lives and building healthier communities is a collective effort. Our mission relies on the unwavering support of our partners and sponsors, whose contributions are essential to driving meaningful change.
