To ensure that all kids across the
Commonwealth have the chance to reach their full potential, Massachusetts has
introduced a number of programs that support children's behavioral development.
The success of some of these efforts is
reflected in a KIDS COUNT report released today by
the Annie E. Casey foundation which finds Massachusetts leading the nation in
providing screenings that assess whether
a child is at risk for developmental or
other behavioral health concerns and that allow for timely
intervention.
Two-thirds of young, low-income children in
Massachusetts get early, developmental screenings, compared to just one-third
nationwide.
Massachusetts is making major strides in the
assessment of post-partum depression.
Making
sure that mental health screenings are followed up by community-based treatment
and family supports could help improve outcomes for
children.
Research
has shown that maternal depression affects the well-being of kids. According to
Liz Friedman, Program Director for MotherWoman, "There are serious implications
for children who are born to mothers with untreated depression or anxiety such
as being more likely to experience social, emotional, and cognitive delays, have
the potential of facing unintended neglect and can have lifelong increases in
medical care utilization and expenses."
The national KIDS COUNT report,
"The First Eight Years: Giving Kids a
Foundation for Lifetime Success," presents a strong case for investing in
the early years of a child's life. The report details the many, long-term
benefits of investing in the early years of a child's life.
For children to succeed, classroom learning should be integrated with
other aspects of child development, such as social, emotional and physical
development, to create opportunities for children to develop the full array of
competencies they will need in life.
"All
children need nurturing and plentiful opportunities to develop during their
crucial first eight years," said Patrick McCarthy, president and CEO of the
Foundation. "Today's complicated world can strain families' ability to ensure
their children are receiving all the stimulation and care they need to develop
to their full potential."
The
Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center
(MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations
focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults,
strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in
Massachusetts.
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