Investing in child health is an investment upstream. Quite simply, health in infancy and the early years contributes to healthy children and youth, and healthy children and youth contribute to health throughout the lifespan. Indeed, “the early development of cognitive skills, emotional well-being, social competence and sound physical and mental health builds a strong foundation for success well into the adult years these abilities are critical prerequisites for economic productivity and responsible citizenship throughout life.” (2) Unhealthy outcomes for children contribute to a negative health trajectory over time. Poor child health and devel- opmental outcomes contribute to poorer short- and long-term growth.
