Optimal nutrition in a child’s first 1000 days is critical for adequate brain development, which affects the rest of his or her life. SAM teaches local women with strong leadership skills a basic nutrition curriculum. These women, in turn, teach the curriculum to other women in their communities through a series of weekly classes. Nutrition is important not only for a child’s physical growth, but also for their mental growth and immune system. Sound nutrition is the basis of a successful future; when young children are fed nutritiously they are able to excel in all aspects of life.