The evaluation, which pooled results from various studies, found signs that Sure Start was helping children and families, and that there was widespread enthusiasm for the initiative.
This was supported by evaluations of individual Sure Start schemes, which showed tangible improvements in areas such as children's language development, play and parenting skills.
Children's minister Margaret Hodge said Sure Start will not be rolled out, as children's centres will provide a childcare focus.
Stephen Burke, director of the Daycare Trust, said: "The preliminary findings demonstrate that these quality services can lift families out of disadvantage and give children a great start in life.
"Children's centres will build on the model of joint working developed within Sure Start local programmes to provide quality services for every child and family no matter where they live."
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