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Resources

Original research, evidence reviews, and more about how state policies can help all children thrive. Can’t find what you need? Contact us directly with an information request.

Rigorous scientific evidence informs our annual policy guide, which gives states actionable solutions to improve outcomes for all young children.

How do you know if a state policy truly improves outcomes for infants, toddlers, and their families? We reviewed thousands of research studies for you.

We conduct original research—including program evaluation, policy analyses, benefit-cost analyses, and mixed methods studies—to build the evidence.

These worksheets walk you through the key levers for policy and program design and implementation—with a focus on building an equitable system of care.

In your state, how do policy choices affect the financial resources a family can use to provide for their children? And how do other states compare?

Our blog features state legislative updates, explainers on complex prenatal-to-3 policy topics, and coverage of important events and emerging research.

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Renewed Support from the Buffett Early Childhood Fund Fuels Continued Growth and Impact at the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center

Funding will support policy research and evidence translation to inform state action and improve outcomes for young children and families As families navigate evolving social and economic challenges, advancing evidence-based policy solutions is critical. The

The Prenatal-to-3 Policy Landscape in 2026

This blog post outlines the state policy changes in effect since the release of our 2025 Roadmap, providing timely and up-to-date context for consideration as policy discussions continue in 2026.

New Reports Illustrate Historical Patterns of Inequity in Policy Design and Their Impact Across Generations

Tracing policy decisions from early America to today, the reports reveal how long-standing choices continue to shape access and outcomes for families The Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Vanderbilt University published the first installment in

Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center Executive Director Cynthia Osborne elected president-elect of APPAM

Osborne will lead the nation’s premier public policy research association, shaping its 2026 Fall Research Conference and advancing excellence in policy analysis and management Dr. Cynthia Osborne, professor of early childhood education and policy at Vanderbilt University’s

Willing Providers, Waiting Families: Subsidized Child Care in North Texas

In North Texas, child care providers already serving subsidized families are willing to serve more; yet, thousands of families remain waitlisted. Download the brief Child care is one of the highest expenses families with young

Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center Secures $4 Million in Renewed Funding to Support Ongoing Progress in Early Childhood Development

Funding renewals from major philanthropic organizations will strengthen operations and research efforts aimed at improving outcomes for young children and families Press Contact: Sydne Lewis, 615-343-9946, sydne.lewis@vanderbilt.edu The Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Vanderbilt University’s

Our 2025 Year In Review

A Snapshot of our Work to Strengthen Prenatal-to-3 Systems of Care Across the Country In 2025, the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center continued to support state leaders with rigorous evidence and policy analysis focused on the

2025 Prenatal-to-3 Legislative Roundup

With most legislatures adjourned for the year, we recap the 2025 action on state policies to support children and families. So far this year, lawmakers throughout the country debated—and many passed—legislation that aligns with four key components of the prenatal-to-3 system of care.

State Policy Progress on Community-Based Doulas in 2025

Community-based doulas are trained social service professionals who provide non-clinical emotional, physical, and informational support to expectant parents, starting during pregnancy and continuing throughout the postpartum period. When integrated into a larger system of supports

Benefit-Cost Analysis of a Paid Family and Medical Leave Program in Vermont

Paid family and medical leave policies are proven to strengthen families’ economic security, support the health and wellbeing of children and parents, and improve mothers’ labor force participation, among other benefits. In partnership with the
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