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Original research, evidence reviews, and more about how state policies can help all children thrive. Can’t find what you need? Contact us directly with an information request.

Rigorous scientific evidence informs our annual policy guide, which gives states actionable solutions to improve outcomes for all young children.

How do you know if a state policy truly improves outcomes for infants, toddlers, and their families? We reviewed thousands of research studies for you.

We conduct original research—including program evaluation, policy analyses, benefit-cost analyses, and mixed methods studies—to build the evidence.

These worksheets walk you through the key levers for policy and program design and implementation—with a focus on building an equitable system of care.

In your state, how do policy choices affect the financial resources a family can use to provide for their children? And how do other states compare?

Our blog features state legislative updates, explainers on complex prenatal-to-3 policy topics, and coverage of important events and emerging research.

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New Report Finds Wide Disparities in Investments in Children’s Earliest Years Across States

POLICIES ADOPTED BY STATES DRIVE MAJOR DIFFERENCES IN THE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO FAMILIES  Press Contact: Sydne Lewis, 615-343-9946, sydne.lewis@vanderbilt.edu The first three years of life are critical for healthy development, yet families in some states

Paid Family and Medical Leave

PAID FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE WHAT IS PAID FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? Paid family leave policies allow workers to take time off work and receive a portion of their salary

State Minimum Wage

STATE MINIMUM WAGE WHAT IS A STATE MINIMUM WAGE AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? A minimum wage establishes a floor for workers’ hourly wages to prevent exploitation by employers and ensure a minimum level of

State-Level Outcomes

CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING IN ARIZONA State policy choices influence the wellbeing of children and families. The data below illustrate the range on 19 outcome measures of child and family wellbeing between the state in

2025 Roadmap Summary

THE PRENATAL-TO-3 SYSTEM OF CARE IN ARKANSAS The prenatal to age 3 (PN-3) period is the most rapid and sensitive period of development, and it sets the foundation for long-term health and wellbeing. The science

Demographic Characteristics

DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF INFANTS AND TODDLERS IN ARKANSAS The characteristics of families vary considerably by state. A clear picture of the current demographic composition and characteristics of a state’s prenatal-to-3 population can help to inform

State-Level Outcomes

CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING IN ARKANSAS State policy choices influence the wellbeing of children and families. The data below illustrate the range on 19 outcome measures of child and family wellbeing between the state in

2025 Roadmap Summary

THE PRENATAL-TO-3 SYSTEM OF CARE IN ALASKA The prenatal to age 3 (PN-3) period is the most rapid and sensitive period of development, and it sets the foundation for long-term health and wellbeing. The science

Demographic Characteristics

DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF INFANTS AND TODDLERS IN ALASKA The characteristics of families vary considerably by state. A clear picture of the current demographic composition and characteristics of a state’s prenatal-to-3 population can help to inform

State-Level Outcomes

CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING IN ALASKA State policy choices influence the wellbeing of children and families. The data below illustrate the range on 19 outcome measures of child and family wellbeing between the state in