ELEVATING HEALTH EQUITY: THE NEXT CHAPTER IN OUR KIDS COUNT® DATA SERIES
Building on our previous data briefs on early learning and economic justice, we're excited for the next phase of our KIDS COUNT® data project: three new briefs on health equity. This ongoing work, rooted in the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT® initiative, reflects our commitment to placing racial justice at the center of Washington’s laws and budget priorities. Using state and county-level data, we’re continuing to elevate the needs of children and families, now turning our attention to the economic conditions that shape their lives and futures.
The three new data briefs published alongside this blog focus on some of the most pressing issues children’s health advocates are faced with today. By providing accessible data—disaggregated by race and county where possible—we aim to equip advocates, policymakers, and community leaders with the information they need to pursue equitable, impactful change.
What Are Data Indicators?
To make meaningful progress, we need to measure where we stand. That’s where data indicators come in. Indicators are specific, measurable pieces of information—such as the percentage of children enrolled in preschool, the rate of uninsured children, or the number of families living below the poverty line—that help paint a clearer picture of child well-being. When disaggregated by race, geography, or income level, these indicators can expose disparities and help us better target solutions.
Spotlight: Health Equity
We are excited to share three new data briefs highlighting timely and important health equity metrics advocates are using to evaluate and develop policies in Washington. These indicators explore rates of doctor visits, prevalence of anxiety and depression, and suicidal ideation among teens. The data briefs offer insights on the effectiveness of previous youth physical and behavioral health policies and provide recommendations for future policy.
The health and wellness of children is vital to their development and futures as productive members of society. By highlighting gaps in access and where kids are struggling the most, we hope to elevate the urgent need for policies that support equitable health access for all Washington families.
What’s Next?
Children’s Alliance will continue to update these indicators, along with the previously published economic justice and early learning indicators, on the Annie E. Casey KIDS COUNT Database. Be on the lookout for future products highlighting data that helps illustrate the ways we can best advocate for kids and youth across Washington.
Why This Matters
Our goal in sharing this data is not just to inform—it’s to inspire action. With this project, we’re giving advocates, lawmakers, and community partners the tools they need to better understand, describe, and address the current state of children and families in Washington. Data should not just sit in spreadsheets; it should spark conversation, policy innovation, and community-driven solutions.
We invite you to explore the early learning and child care indicators on our website—and stay tuned as we release the next sets of data. Together, we can build a Washington where every child has the chance to thrive.
To learn more and view the data, click the links below:
To learn more about KIDS COUNT in Washington, click here.
KIDS COUNT® is a registered trademark of The Annie E. Casey Foundation, Inc., and is used with permission of the Foundation.