The early years of a child’s life lay the foundation for lifelong success. Establishing the conditions that promote educational achievement for children is critical, beginning with quality prenatal care and continuing through the early elementary years. Adolescence also represents a pivotal window for growth and developmental opportunities that equip youth to remain on track to graduate from high school, pursue postsecondary education and training and successfully transition to adulthood. Yet our country continues to have significant gaps in educational achievement by race and income among all age groups of child development. Closing these gaps will be key to ensuring the nation’s future workforce can compete on a global scale.
Learn more in the 2024 KIDS COUNT Data Book.
