Every child needs a village – a connected community of caring adults to support them and safe, supportive environments that will allow them to thrive. The health and well-being of children are shaped by the places they learn, play and live—and by the people who care for them. Healthi Kids ensures these places and people have what they need to give kids ages 0-8 the healthiest start possible.
Our change agenda embraces kids and families at the center of all decision making. We advocate to support policies, systems and environmental changes that nurture the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of kids age 0-8. We do this by focusing on policies that support healthy habit building and healthy relationships, create safe and secure environments and psychological safety, and cultivate skills and competencies of adults who care for children.
By fostering an environment of whole child health, and recognizing the importance of kid-centered decision-making, we begin to prioritize children across our community and create the village and supportive environment they need to thrive. Together, we must abolish inequities caused by adverse childhood experiences, structural racism, poverty and community violence to support our youngest children.