Support and Strengthen Vulnerable Families

Young children are most at risk when their families lack stability, are unable to provide nurturing, or are under stress. Strategies that are effective in strengthening families are needed to ensure that all children start school equipped for success. For more information on family support research.

What Can Policymakers Do?

• Enhance parenting skills . Increase parents’ knowledge and skills to support children’s healthy development.

• Enhance services for vulnerable families . Increase the number and percentage of young children (0-8) who live in safe, stable, and supportive families.

• Increase child developmental screening and services . Increase child developmental screening and appropriate referrals for families and children in the child welfare system.