If our society and economy are to prosper in the future, all children must have the opportunity to develop intellectually, socially and emotionally. Unfortunately, by the time children reach kindergarten in Minnesota, approximately 50% are not ready for school - some will catch up, but many will continue to struggle.

We can do better. In Minnesota, we spend public and private resources on early care and education programs, but we know little to nothing about whether these investments effectively support the development of our youngest children. And we know that many families are unable to access quality programs because they cost too much or are unavailable. Minnesota has the highest percentage of working mothers in the country, yet many child care providers know little about supporting the healthy development of children in ways that lead to school readiness.