Report: Children's wellbeing declined in 29 states since 2019
By
Rebecca Falconer
Crackles when you bite it. Shows the baker did the work.
Summary
A new report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation's 2026 Kids Count Data Book reveals that children's wellbeing has declined nationally from 2019 to 2024, with kids in 29 states faring worse than before the COVID-19 pandemic. The report measures wellbeing across economic wellbeing, education, health, and family/community categories. Researchers warn that rising costs and reductions to safety-net programs could further strain families, ultimately affecting future workforce participation and economic growth.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledChildren's wellbeing declined nationally from 2019 to 2024, with kids in 29 states faring worse than before the COVID pandemic
Children's wellbeing affects future workforce participation and economic growth
Rising costs and safety-net reductions could further strain families
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