Abstract:
This brief outlines research to make the case that state policies can promote the quality and continuity of early childhood experiences and positively impact the healthy growth and development of babies and toddlers in child care&emdash;the central tenet of the Charting Progress for Babies in Child Care project, conducted by CLASP with Zero to Three. The majority of infants and toddlers will spend some time in non-parental care during these early years; and research shows that secure relationships with parents and caregivers are of primary importance for cognitive, social, and emotional development. The project will highlight how state child care subsidy, licensing, and quality enhancement policies can increase the odds that vulnerable babies and toddlers have positive early learning and development experiences when in child care settings.