The first three years lay the foundation for lifelong learning, health and achievement. In this time of rapid brain development, every moment matters, and any service delay is a lost opportunity to keep a child on track.
The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) are vital federal programs that help families access the services babies need, when they need them.
Key Stats
- Nearly 400,000 babies under age 3 receive child care support through CCDF.
- Infant child care costs more than in-state college tuition in 41 states and DC.
- The lack of affordable infant-toddler care costs the U.S. economy $122 billion each year.
- 9.2 million children benefit from SSBG-funded services.
- Nearly 155,000 babies are in families receiving TANF assistance annually.
Research shows that high-quality early learning returns $7 to $13 for every $1 invested through increased earnings and reduced need for public services.
