Ensuring that Rhode Island’s children and youth have excellent physical, oral, and mental health is critical for success at all stages of development. Health impacts child well-being in all aspects, including success in school, meeting developmental milestones, and reaching their fullest potential.

A child’s health is strongly affected by the family and community environment in which he or she lives, learns and plays; as well as by access to high-quality health care, high-quality early learning and educational opportunities, and nurturing relationships with parents and other adults. Health insurance and health care are critical to a child’s health, to prevent or treat health problems, and to and educate families about health issues.