Maternal & Child Health

At Child Trends, we believe that maternal and child health is broader than the health of mothers and babies. Our researchers examine the health of newborns, babies, toddlers, and young children, as well as the health of mothers and birthing people before, during, and after a pregnancy. We also explore the relationships between parents and children, and the ways in which communities, programs, and policies influence family well-being.  Child Trends’ analysis of the recent historic declines in child poverty point to the policies that can impact the well-being of pregnant and parenting individuals and their young children. However, persistent gaps remain when it comes to the race and ethnicity of young children and their families living in poverty, and child poverty rates vary by state. Our researchers understand that maternal and child health are influenced by policy and program decisions across a wide range of sectors.