State-based policies to promote early childhood health and improve equity

Abstract

Purpose of review Several states are advancing policies to promote equity and positively impact the health of infants, toddlers, and their families. We review five broad issues areas that states can pursue through policy or dedicated funding. Recent findings Policy campaigns to support nutrition security, early childhood education, healthcare access, tobacco cessation, and family income supports will improve the health and wellbeing of young children and their families through short-term and long-term impacts, including improved birth outcomes, social–emotional learning, and chronic disease prevention. Summary Clinicians, researchers, advocates, and decision-makers play a crucial role in advancing policies and programs that promote equity and positively impact the health of infants, toddlers, and families. To advance equity, states should strive to center families and communities in policy-change efforts.