High-quality prenatal healthcare is necessary for mother and baby health, and significantly reduces costs after birth. Well-baby care is also necessary for healthy development. Both should be universally covered by insurance.
The United States is one of only four countries without guaranteed paid leave for new mothers. This leave is necessary for attachment and for healthy brain development in infants.
Only 8% of children in childcare programs are receiving high-quality care. Regulations should ensure safe and high-quality care, adequate pay for child care professionals, and child care subsidies for families.