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Vulnerable Infants and Toddlers in Four Service Systems |
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From Urban Institute: This brief compiles the best available data on the characteristics of vulnerable young children in four service systems: Early Head Start (EHS); the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC); the child welfare (CW) system; and Part C Early Intervention Programs (Part C). Data reveal that the children and families in these systems look fairly similar on some key dimensions, suggesting that policy initiatives to support young children's development might be informed by distilling common lessons from the systems' different research bases. This brief compiles the best available data on the characteristics of the young children served by each system. Specifically, neuroscience research has established that the brain develops rapidly during the early years of life, largely forming the trajectory of a child's future cognitive and emotional development. Parents caring for very young children, with and without means, struggle to nurture their children's development, maintain connections with the workforce, juggle child care arrangements, secure needed services, and build supportive relationships with family, friends, and the broader community. Families' efforts to navigate this difficult period can be further challenged by insufficient income, domestic violence, substance abuse, or mental health problems. Disclaimer: The nonpartisan Urban Institute publishes studies, reports, and books on timely topics worthy of public consideration.
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