February 22, 2008

The Kids Are Priority One Coalition's 2008 policy agenda was developed by Kids Are Priority One coalition members and staff. It provides a “road map” for incremental steps that Vermonters can take towards ensuring the healthy development of all Vermont’s young children. We know what works to ensure all children have equal opportunity for healthy development. We know that supporting healthy child development is easier and more effective than trying to make up for damaging early experiences later on. (Supports can include services provided in a child’s home; child care and preschool in family and center based programs; as well as physical and mental health services.)

Although we know that we can shift the odds toward more favorable life outcomes for our kids and our communities, we are not investing adequately in quality services to assure healthy development in the early years. We are the stewards of our children’s and our state’s future. To ensure that all Vermont children grow into solid community members and active participants in our economy, we must work together to meet our young children’s needs.

For more information about the policy agenda, contact Kay Van Woert, Kids Are Priority One Policy Specialist, at 985-5668 or vanwoert@aol.com.