Publications2020-02-14T12:40:32-05:00

PUBLICATIONS

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20232023-12-05T18:04:18-05:00

2023 county data bookThe 2023 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 16 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the Commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period.

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Fostering Connections: Actions Needed to Prevent Homelessness Among Foster Care Alumni, Sept 20232023-09-20T15:54:12-04:00

Fostering Connections: Actions Needed to Prevent Homelessness Among Foster Care AlumniThe Fostering Connections report examines the housing challenges facing young adults in Louisville with a foster care experience and systemic barriers that contribute to those challenges. It also offers recommendations to improve outcomes and promote stability among foster care alumni.

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Residential Foster Care Analysis Report, Nov 20222023-09-20T15:54:38-04:00

Residential Foster Care Analysis ReportThe Residential Foster Care Analysis Report examines issues often seen in residential and institutional placements and offers recommendations to improve the outcomes of the youth in foster care.

VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20222023-09-20T15:55:27-04:00

2022 County Data BookThe 2022 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 16 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the Commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period.
VIEW NOW

Community and Jail Practices to Support Children with Incarcerated Parents, Oct 20222023-09-20T15:55:55-04:00

Parental incarceration is often referred to as a ‘shared sentence’ because of the impact it has on the community, caregivers, and most importantly, the children. Kentucky currently has the 11th highest rate of children who have had a parent incarcerated.

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Guide for Supporting Children Who Have a Parent Incarcerated, May 20222023-09-20T15:56:34-04:00

This guide offers tips, resources, and conversation starters for parents, caregivers, and community members.

 

VIEW NOW | VIEW PRINT VERSION

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20212023-09-20T15:56:57-04:00

The 31st edition of the Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing how outcomes for children across the commonwealth have changed over a five-year period. This data book focuses on advancing race equity, with an examination of racial disparities and the longstanding systemic barriers that contributed to them, alongside policy and practice solutions to address these disparities.
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Impact of Maternal Incarceration on Kentucky’s Children, Dec 20202023-09-20T15:57:24-04:00

This issue brief highlights the prevalence of parental incarceration in Kentucky, the impact maternal incarceration has on children, and the state policy and practice changes that could hold parents accountable for their actions in ways that allow them to continue to care for their children and become successful contributors to society.

VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20202023-09-20T15:57:48-04:00

The 30th edition of the Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing how outcomes for children across the commonwealth have changed over a five-year period. Though this data is not reflective of conditions during the COVID-19 crisis, it does indicate pre-existing barriers and areas of needed improvement. The opening essay examines the impacts of the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racial injustice on children and families with data disaggregated by race/ethnicity. VIEW NOW

A Kentucky Grandparent and Relative Caregiver Handbook, Sept 20202023-09-20T15:58:11-04:00

A Kentucky Grandparent and Relative Caregiver Handbook,In A Kentucky Grandparent and Relative Caregiver Handbook, caregivers will find information on the basics of kinship care and the court process, tips for engaging with birth parents and navigating the complex child welfare system, and resources to help the vulnerable children in their care grow and thrive.

VIEW HANDBOOK

COVID-19 Impacts on the Kentucky Child Welfare Community Report, Aug 20202023-09-20T15:58:41-04:00

COVID-19 Impacts on the Kentucky Child Welfare Community: A Public Health Crisis Meets a Vulnerable SystemCOVID-19 Impacts on the Kentucky Child Welfare Community: A Public Health Crisis Meets a Vulnerable System

Report, August 2020

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Family First Act Communications and Advocacy Toolkit2023-09-20T15:59:03-04:00

Family First Act Communications and Advocacy ToolkitThis toolkit can help child welfare leaders and professionals, advocates, private providers, and other stakeholders understand Family First and talk about how it will improve outcomes for kids and families in Kentucky.

VIEW TOOLKIT

Kentucky Can End the Epidemic of E-Cigarette Use Infographic, Jan 20202023-09-20T15:59:24-04:00

Kentucky Can End the Epidemic of E-Cigarette UseKentucky Can End the Epidemic of E-Cigarette Use So Kentucky Kids Will Grow Into Healthier Adults

Infographic, Jan 2020

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20192023-09-20T15:59:53-04:00

The 2019 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book offers the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period.  The opening essay explores how another undercount of young children in the 2020 census would negatively affect funding provided to our state and communities, reduce the reliability of data on child well-being, and could diminish political representation. VIEW NOW

Federal Child Care Investment is Fueling Local Economies and Offering Opportunities Infographic, May 20192023-09-20T16:00:18-04:00

Federal Child Care Investment is Fueling Local Economies and Offering Opportunities

Infographic, May 2019

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Kinship Care in Kentucky Infographic, March 20192023-09-20T16:00:47-04:00

The infographic describes the different types of kinship care in Kentucky and provides the latest available data.

Infographic, March 2019

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Ending the Surge in E-Cigarettes Infographic, Dec 20182023-09-20T16:01:08-04:00

Ending the Surge in E-Cigarettes so Kentucky teens can grow into healthier adults.

Infographic, Dec 2019

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20182023-09-20T16:01:30-04:00

The 2018 County Data Book offers the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period. The opening essay takes a deep dive into the impact of trauma, specifically abuse and neglect, on children’s short- and long-term health and well-being. VIEW NOW

Minimizing the Impact of Parental Incarceration on Children, Feb 20182023-09-20T16:03:18-04:00

Children need their parents to care for them and earn a living to meet their basic needs. Unfortunately, Kentucky has a high rate of children who have experienced separation from a parent due to incarceration, which impedes parents’ ability to stay employed and raise their kids. Through smart criminal justice policy changes, more Kentucky parents can be held accountable for their actions in ways that allow them to still care for their children. VIEW NOW

Helping Pregnant Women to Quit Smoking Infographic, Jan 20182023-09-20T16:03:45-04:00

Protect pregnant mothers and their babies by helping pregnant women to quit smoking through an increased Kentucky tobacco tax of at least $1 .

Infographic, Jan 2018

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Prevent Teens from Starting to Smoke Infographic, Jan 20182023-09-20T16:04:05-04:00

Prevent teens from starting to smoke and protect the health of Kentucky’s future by increasing Kentucky’s tobacco tax by at least $1.

Infographic, Jan 2018

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20172023-09-20T16:04:34-04:00

The 2017 County Data Book provides data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period. It also calculates how many children would be impacted if Kentucky was able to make just a 10 percent improvement for each measure.

VIEW NOW

A State Earned Income Credit Would Help Kentucky Families and Local Economies, Updated September 20172023-09-20T16:04:59-04:00

Kentucky children thrive when parents can earn a living and meet basic needs for the family. Built on the premise of supporting work over welfare, the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is designed to encourage and reward work while also delivering much-needed support to low-income families.

VIEW NOW

Keep Kindergartners Out of Court, February 20172023-09-20T16:05:20-04:00

To create safer communities in Kentucky, we must respond to children who get in trouble as early as possible and in the most effective way possible.  Positive or negative factors in a child’s development stack up like weights on a scale and can tip their futures toward good or bad outcomes.

VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20162023-09-20T16:05:47-04:00

The 2016 County Data Book focuses on key state and county level measures of child well-being, including county-level rankings on child well-being. This book also examines how children fare based on where they live, how much their families earn, and the color of their skin.

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Medicaid Expansion in Kentucky: Benefits to Kids and Families, September 20162023-09-20T16:08:09-04:00

All children, especially those living in low-income and vulnerable families, need access to affordable health care. Research has shown that children with health coverage are more likely to receive regular preventive care, such as well-child exams, and to stay connected to a primary care doctor.

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Clearing the Air for All Kentucky Children, Updated December 20152023-09-20T16:12:42-04:00

All children deserve to breathe clean air and be healthy, yet approximately 69 percent of Kentucky’s children live in a community that does not offer them strong protections from secondhand tobacco smoke in workplaces and other enclosed public places. Clearing the Air for All Kentucky Children explains how smoke-free policies in workplaces and public places can protect babies, children, and teens. VIEW NOW

Every Kentucky Kid Needs a Family, December 20152023-09-20T16:13:01-04:00

Every child needs a family and a safe place to call home. This issue brief provides recommendations to ensure children who have experienced abuse or neglect receive an appropriate level of care and have a chance to grow up in the care of a family.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20152023-09-20T16:13:21-04:00

The 2015 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of child well-being. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Kentucky KIDS COUNT, this book reflects on 25 years of policy wins for kids and sets goals for the next 25 years.

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Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Infographic, Sept 20152023-09-20T16:13:43-04:00

The infographic highlights the important advantages of a state-level EITC in Kentucky and shows that workers, families, and communities all stand to gain from a state EITC.  Enacting a state EITC would help keep Kentucky’s children out of poverty by supporting their working parents.

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Kinship Families Coalition of Kentucky Infographic, May 20152023-09-20T16:14:04-04:00

The infographic describes the facts about kinship care in Kentucky. It also displays the inequity in supports for kinship care vs. foster care and offers some suggestions on how we can better leverage the strengths of kinship families to ensure they are thriving.

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Shared-Use Agreements Infographic, April 20152023-09-20T16:14:26-04:00

A shared-use agreement is a formal agreement between a school and a community agency for the use of facilities, such as gymnasiums, tracks, cafeterias, and athletic fields, during non-school hours.  Learn more in the infographic.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20142022-09-26T13:16:27-04:00

The 2014 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of child well-being. It opens with an essay on adverse childhood experiences and offers recommendations to prevent and help kids recover from these experiences so they can thrive as adults.

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Integrated Health Care Benefits Kentucky’s Children, April 20142022-09-26T13:17:11-04:00

Integrated care leads to better health outcomes for Kentucky’s children and their families. It addresses health care needs using a range of strategies and resources in a variety of settings, promoting increased access to care and to higher-quality care.

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The State of Kentucky’s Oral Health Infographic, Feb 20142022-09-26T13:17:36-04:00

The infographic displays fun facts about oral health and the consequences of poor oral hygiene. It also looks at what barriers Kentuckians face when it comes to having optimal oral health including cost, lack of prevention, and lack of access.

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Building the Foundation for Education: Investing in Kentucky’s Young Children, January 20142022-09-26T13:35:40-04:00

This report highlights the key role early childhood plays in lifetime success; outlines the critical components of strong early childhood experiences; reviews how Kentucky is working to provide young children a solid foundation; and identifies additional opportunities for Kentucky to provide every child from birth through age eight a chance to reach their full potential. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20132022-09-26T13:18:14-04:00

The 2013 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of child well-being. It opens with an essay on how to create a Kentucky where all children succeed.

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Increasing Support for Kinship Families in Kentucky, December 20132022-09-26T13:36:12-04:00

Kinship care is an extremely valuable alternative to traditional foster care that allows children to retain strong familial bonds when children cannot stay in their homes with their parents. This issue brief summarizes the findings of a series of focus groups, interviews, and surveys conducted with kinship caregivers and support providers and offers recommendations for increasing supports for kinship families. VIEW NOW

Jefferson County KIDS COUNT Data Book – 20132022-09-26T13:19:07-04:00

The Jefferson County KIDS COUNT Data Book published in 2013 provides data on children in Metro Louisville at the Council District level. This micro level data can help neighborhoods in Louisville look at unique issues impacting children in various parts of the city.

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Medicaid Expansion in Kentucky: Kids Have Much to Gain, March 20132022-09-26T13:19:23-04:00

All children, especially those living in low-income and vulnerable families need access to affordable health care. Providing affordable health coverage for parents is one proven way to improve overall family health and reduce the number of uninsured children.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20122022-09-26T13:19:37-04:00

The 2012 County Data Book focuses on key state, county, and district level measures of education. It opens with an essay on how to strengthen alternative education programs.

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Sharing School Facilities: How Collaboration Can Increase Physical Activity in Communities, May 20122022-09-26T13:19:54-04:00

Shared-use allows spaces such as gymnasiums, tracks, cafeterias, athletic fields and other school facilities to be used for recreation by community members of all ages. This report outlines the current landscape of shared-use agreements and explains the challenges and opportunities for opening more shared-use facilities in communities across Kentucky.

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Ending the Use of Incarceration for Status Offenses in Kentucky, Updated May 20122022-09-26T13:36:47-04:00

Youth incarcerated for status offenses, which are acts defined as illegal only because they are committed by people who are under 18 years of age, face greater risk of poor education, work, and health outcomes, as well as future incarceration. This issue brief provides data on youth incarceration for status offenses and provides recommendations for more efficient and effective alternatives to incarceration. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20112022-09-26T13:20:54-04:00

The 2011 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of children’s health. It opens with an essay on how to improve the oral health of Kentucky families.

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Ending Corporal Punishment in Kentucky Public Schools, December 20112022-09-26T13:21:09-04:00

A learning environment that is safe and nurturing is necessary for all children to grow and thrive in school. For children in schools that use corporal punishment, or physical force, as a form of discipline, the classroom can become a threatening environment.

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Reclaiming Futures in Kentucky, August 20112022-09-26T13:37:12-04:00

While secure detention may be appropriate for violent offenses, it is rarely an appropriate or effective option for addressing status offenses, which are offenses that are illegal if committed by someone under age 18. The Reclaiming Futures model has been developed to identify the critical stages for implementing a successful plan for youth who have been or are at risk of being charged with a status offense. VIEW NOW

Complete Streets: Venues for Safety and Wellness in Kentucky, May 20112022-09-26T13:21:41-04:00

Complete streets are designed to accommodate everyone using the road, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and public transportation users of all ages and abilities. This issue brief explains how complete streets increase safety and improve health and makes recommendations for more Kentucky communities to incorporate complete streets.

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A Picture of Health: A Report of Kentucky School Districts’ Health Services, March 20112022-09-26T13:37:33-04:00

A Picture of Health: A Report of Kentucky School Districts’ Health Services presents the findings of a study of school health services offered in Kentucky school districts during the 2008-2009 school year and offers highlights of promising practices across the state. Study topics included school health services funding, school health services offered, and types of school health providers. VIEW NOW

Increasing the High School Graduation Rate, Updated January 20112022-09-26T13:38:01-04:00

All young people need a strong education to succeed in today’s economy, and graduating from high school is more critical than ever before. Failing to graduate high school has long-term negative consequences for the individual and for society. This brief focuses on prevention of high school dropout and strategies for improving the state’s high school graduation rate. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20102022-09-26T13:26:32-04:00

The 2010 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of economic well-being. It opens with an essay on how to increase access to work supports for Kentucky families.

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Prevention of Out-of-Home Placement for Children, December 20092022-09-26T13:27:02-04:00

All children need a safe environment and caring adults to thrive. This brief focuses on prevention of out-of-home placement for children who have been abused by ensuring that family preservation services and family reunification services are available.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20092022-09-26T13:27:19-04:00

The 2009 County Data Book focuses on key state and county level measures of safety. It opens with an essay on the need for better collaboration between the juvenile justice and child welfare systems.

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Opportunities Lost: Racial Disparities in Juvenile Justice in Kentucky and Identified Needs for System Change, September 20092022-09-26T13:38:23-04:00

Though unintentional, the system of juvenile justice results in different vulnerabilities, treatment, and outcomes for youth of color compared to white youth, even when they have engaged in the very same behaviors. This issue brief includes data that shows that youth of color are clearly over represented at some of the key decision-making points within Kentucky’s juvenile justice system and provides recommendations for eliminating these disparities. VIEW NOW

A Cycle of Debt: Kentucky Families Share Their Experiences with Payday Lending and Other High-Cost Financial Services, June 20092022-09-26T13:38:45-04:00

All families need reasonably-priced financial services to pay bills and provide for their families. Yet, low-income families in Kentucky often pay higher prices than higher-income families for basic financial services, such as cashing a check or taking out a small loan. This report presents information that was shared by low-income working families across the state about their financial situations and use of financial products, specifically payday loans. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20082022-09-26T13:28:46-04:00

The 2008 County Data Book includes key state, county, and district level measures of education, economic well-being, health and safety. It opens with an essay on the influence of three factors on the lives of Kentucky children: place, income and race.

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Payday Lending: Whittling Away at Working Families’ Income, February 20082022-09-26T13:39:02-04:00

All families need a steady, stable income to meet basic needs and support their children’s healthy development, yet many Kentucky families struggle to make it until their next payday. Some families rely on short-term payday loans to make ends meet, but working Kentuckians lose millions of dollars annually in fees paid for these loans.  This report details the higher costs low-income families pay for goods and services. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20072022-09-26T13:29:24-04:00

The 2007 County Data Book includes key state, county, and district level measures of education, economic well-being, health and safety. It opens with an essay on the importance of using data to improve the lives of children in Kentucky.

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The High Price of Being Poor in Kentucky, July 20072022-09-26T13:39:22-04:00

Lower-income families in Kentucky often pay hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars more in higher prices for basic necessities than their higher-income neighbors. Although not a new problem, the costs today are much greater in scope. This report examines the prices charged to lower-income families in Kentucky for basic necessities: financial services, auto-related products, home financing and household goods, and groceries. VIEW NOW

The High Cost of Being Poor: Families Speak Out, July 20072022-09-26T13:30:08-04:00

To better understand how the “high cost of being poor” is affecting local families, Kentucky Youth Advocates conducted in-depth interviews and focus groups throughout the Commonwealth. In this report, KYA focused on how families manage the costs of basic goods and services, and what they think is needed to help bring down these costs.

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Bullying: A Schoolhouse Reality for Kentucky Students, February 20072023-09-06T14:42:52-04:00

Bullying can result in substantial long-term negative impacts for the victim, the bully, the school’s learning environment, and society as a whole. This issue brief presents findings about bullying in Kentucky and offers recommendations for effectively responding to and preventing bullying.

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Mulch, Hoops and Homemade Pie, 20062022-09-26T13:30:44-04:00

Mulch, Hoops and Homemade PieA Report to the Kentucky State Board of Education on A5 and A6 Programs in the Commonwealth.

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Kentucky’s Cavity: Parents Voice Concerns about Children’s Dental Care in their Communities, 20052022-09-26T13:31:05-04:00

Many Kentucky families face barriers when trying to access dental care, including lack of transportation to dental offices, lack of dental coverage, and a shortage of dental care providers in some areas. In this report, parents share experiences in obtaining dental health services for their children in communities across Kentucky.

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Publications

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20232023-12-05T18:04:18-05:00

2023 county data bookThe 2023 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 16 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the Commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period.

VIEW NOW

Fostering Connections: Actions Needed to Prevent Homelessness Among Foster Care Alumni, Sept 20232023-09-20T15:54:12-04:00

Fostering Connections: Actions Needed to Prevent Homelessness Among Foster Care AlumniThe Fostering Connections report examines the housing challenges facing young adults in Louisville with a foster care experience and systemic barriers that contribute to those challenges. It also offers recommendations to improve outcomes and promote stability among foster care alumni.

VIEW NOW

Residential Foster Care Analysis Report, Nov 20222023-09-20T15:54:38-04:00

Residential Foster Care Analysis ReportThe Residential Foster Care Analysis Report examines issues often seen in residential and institutional placements and offers recommendations to improve the outcomes of the youth in foster care.

VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20222023-09-20T15:55:27-04:00

2022 County Data BookThe 2022 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 16 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the Commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period.
VIEW NOW

Community and Jail Practices to Support Children with Incarcerated Parents, Oct 20222023-09-20T15:55:55-04:00

Parental incarceration is often referred to as a ‘shared sentence’ because of the impact it has on the community, caregivers, and most importantly, the children. Kentucky currently has the 11th highest rate of children who have had a parent incarcerated.

VIEW NOW

Guide for Supporting Children Who Have a Parent Incarcerated, May 20222023-09-20T15:56:34-04:00

This guide offers tips, resources, and conversation starters for parents, caregivers, and community members.

 

VIEW NOW | VIEW PRINT VERSION

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20212023-09-20T15:56:57-04:00

The 31st edition of the Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing how outcomes for children across the commonwealth have changed over a five-year period. This data book focuses on advancing race equity, with an examination of racial disparities and the longstanding systemic barriers that contributed to them, alongside policy and practice solutions to address these disparities.
VIEW NOW

Impact of Maternal Incarceration on Kentucky’s Children, Dec 20202023-09-20T15:57:24-04:00

This issue brief highlights the prevalence of parental incarceration in Kentucky, the impact maternal incarceration has on children, and the state policy and practice changes that could hold parents accountable for their actions in ways that allow them to continue to care for their children and become successful contributors to society.

VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20202023-09-20T15:57:48-04:00

The 30th edition of the Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book features the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing how outcomes for children across the commonwealth have changed over a five-year period. Though this data is not reflective of conditions during the COVID-19 crisis, it does indicate pre-existing barriers and areas of needed improvement. The opening essay examines the impacts of the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racial injustice on children and families with data disaggregated by race/ethnicity. VIEW NOW

A Kentucky Grandparent and Relative Caregiver Handbook, Sept 20202023-09-20T15:58:11-04:00

A Kentucky Grandparent and Relative Caregiver Handbook,In A Kentucky Grandparent and Relative Caregiver Handbook, caregivers will find information on the basics of kinship care and the court process, tips for engaging with birth parents and navigating the complex child welfare system, and resources to help the vulnerable children in their care grow and thrive.

VIEW HANDBOOK

COVID-19 Impacts on the Kentucky Child Welfare Community Report, Aug 20202023-09-20T15:58:41-04:00

COVID-19 Impacts on the Kentucky Child Welfare Community: A Public Health Crisis Meets a Vulnerable SystemCOVID-19 Impacts on the Kentucky Child Welfare Community: A Public Health Crisis Meets a Vulnerable System

Report, August 2020

VIEW REPORT

Family First Act Communications and Advocacy Toolkit2023-09-20T15:59:03-04:00

Family First Act Communications and Advocacy ToolkitThis toolkit can help child welfare leaders and professionals, advocates, private providers, and other stakeholders understand Family First and talk about how it will improve outcomes for kids and families in Kentucky.

VIEW TOOLKIT

Kentucky Can End the Epidemic of E-Cigarette Use Infographic, Jan 20202023-09-20T15:59:24-04:00

Kentucky Can End the Epidemic of E-Cigarette UseKentucky Can End the Epidemic of E-Cigarette Use So Kentucky Kids Will Grow Into Healthier Adults

Infographic, Jan 2020

VIEW PDF | VIEW JPG

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20192023-09-20T15:59:53-04:00

The 2019 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book offers the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period.  The opening essay explores how another undercount of young children in the 2020 census would negatively affect funding provided to our state and communities, reduce the reliability of data on child well-being, and could diminish political representation. VIEW NOW

Federal Child Care Investment is Fueling Local Economies and Offering Opportunities Infographic, May 20192023-09-20T16:00:18-04:00

Federal Child Care Investment is Fueling Local Economies and Offering Opportunities

Infographic, May 2019

VIEW PDF | VIEW JPG

Kinship Care in Kentucky Infographic, March 20192023-09-20T16:00:47-04:00

The infographic describes the different types of kinship care in Kentucky and provides the latest available data.

Infographic, March 2019

VIEW PDF | VIEW JPG

Ending the Surge in E-Cigarettes Infographic, Dec 20182023-09-20T16:01:08-04:00

Ending the Surge in E-Cigarettes so Kentucky teens can grow into healthier adults.

Infographic, Dec 2019

VIEW PDF | VIEW JPG

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20182023-09-20T16:01:30-04:00

The 2018 County Data Book offers the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period. The opening essay takes a deep dive into the impact of trauma, specifically abuse and neglect, on children’s short- and long-term health and well-being. VIEW NOW

Minimizing the Impact of Parental Incarceration on Children, Feb 20182023-09-20T16:03:18-04:00

Children need their parents to care for them and earn a living to meet their basic needs. Unfortunately, Kentucky has a high rate of children who have experienced separation from a parent due to incarceration, which impedes parents’ ability to stay employed and raise their kids. Through smart criminal justice policy changes, more Kentucky parents can be held accountable for their actions in ways that allow them to still care for their children. VIEW NOW

Helping Pregnant Women to Quit Smoking Infographic, Jan 20182023-09-20T16:03:45-04:00

Protect pregnant mothers and their babies by helping pregnant women to quit smoking through an increased Kentucky tobacco tax of at least $1 .

Infographic, Jan 2018

VIEW PDF | VIEW JPG

Prevent Teens from Starting to Smoke Infographic, Jan 20182023-09-20T16:04:05-04:00

Prevent teens from starting to smoke and protect the health of Kentucky’s future by increasing Kentucky’s tobacco tax by at least $1.

Infographic, Jan 2018

VIEW PDF | VIEW JPG

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20172023-09-20T16:04:34-04:00

The 2017 County Data Book provides data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period. It also calculates how many children would be impacted if Kentucky was able to make just a 10 percent improvement for each measure.

VIEW NOW

A State Earned Income Credit Would Help Kentucky Families and Local Economies, Updated September 20172023-09-20T16:04:59-04:00

Kentucky children thrive when parents can earn a living and meet basic needs for the family. Built on the premise of supporting work over welfare, the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is designed to encourage and reward work while also delivering much-needed support to low-income families.

VIEW NOW

Keep Kindergartners Out of Court, February 20172023-09-20T16:05:20-04:00

To create safer communities in Kentucky, we must respond to children who get in trouble as early as possible and in the most effective way possible.  Positive or negative factors in a child’s development stack up like weights on a scale and can tip their futures toward good or bad outcomes.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20162023-09-20T16:05:47-04:00

The 2016 County Data Book focuses on key state and county level measures of child well-being, including county-level rankings on child well-being. This book also examines how children fare based on where they live, how much their families earn, and the color of their skin.

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Medicaid Expansion in Kentucky: Benefits to Kids and Families, September 20162023-09-20T16:08:09-04:00

All children, especially those living in low-income and vulnerable families, need access to affordable health care. Research has shown that children with health coverage are more likely to receive regular preventive care, such as well-child exams, and to stay connected to a primary care doctor.

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Clearing the Air for All Kentucky Children, Updated December 20152023-09-20T16:12:42-04:00

All children deserve to breathe clean air and be healthy, yet approximately 69 percent of Kentucky’s children live in a community that does not offer them strong protections from secondhand tobacco smoke in workplaces and other enclosed public places. Clearing the Air for All Kentucky Children explains how smoke-free policies in workplaces and public places can protect babies, children, and teens. VIEW NOW

Every Kentucky Kid Needs a Family, December 20152023-09-20T16:13:01-04:00

Every child needs a family and a safe place to call home. This issue brief provides recommendations to ensure children who have experienced abuse or neglect receive an appropriate level of care and have a chance to grow up in the care of a family.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20152023-09-20T16:13:21-04:00

The 2015 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of child well-being. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Kentucky KIDS COUNT, this book reflects on 25 years of policy wins for kids and sets goals for the next 25 years.

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Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Infographic, Sept 20152023-09-20T16:13:43-04:00

The infographic highlights the important advantages of a state-level EITC in Kentucky and shows that workers, families, and communities all stand to gain from a state EITC.  Enacting a state EITC would help keep Kentucky’s children out of poverty by supporting their working parents.

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Kinship Families Coalition of Kentucky Infographic, May 20152023-09-20T16:14:04-04:00

The infographic describes the facts about kinship care in Kentucky. It also displays the inequity in supports for kinship care vs. foster care and offers some suggestions on how we can better leverage the strengths of kinship families to ensure they are thriving.

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Shared-Use Agreements Infographic, April 20152023-09-20T16:14:26-04:00

A shared-use agreement is a formal agreement between a school and a community agency for the use of facilities, such as gymnasiums, tracks, cafeterias, and athletic fields, during non-school hours.  Learn more in the infographic.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20142022-09-26T13:16:27-04:00

The 2014 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of child well-being. It opens with an essay on adverse childhood experiences and offers recommendations to prevent and help kids recover from these experiences so they can thrive as adults.

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Integrated Health Care Benefits Kentucky’s Children, April 20142022-09-26T13:17:11-04:00

Integrated care leads to better health outcomes for Kentucky’s children and their families. It addresses health care needs using a range of strategies and resources in a variety of settings, promoting increased access to care and to higher-quality care.

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The State of Kentucky’s Oral Health Infographic, Feb 20142022-09-26T13:17:36-04:00

The infographic displays fun facts about oral health and the consequences of poor oral hygiene. It also looks at what barriers Kentuckians face when it comes to having optimal oral health including cost, lack of prevention, and lack of access.

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Building the Foundation for Education: Investing in Kentucky’s Young Children, January 20142022-09-26T13:35:40-04:00

This report highlights the key role early childhood plays in lifetime success; outlines the critical components of strong early childhood experiences; reviews how Kentucky is working to provide young children a solid foundation; and identifies additional opportunities for Kentucky to provide every child from birth through age eight a chance to reach their full potential. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20132022-09-26T13:18:14-04:00

The 2013 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of child well-being. It opens with an essay on how to create a Kentucky where all children succeed.

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Increasing Support for Kinship Families in Kentucky, December 20132022-09-26T13:36:12-04:00

Kinship care is an extremely valuable alternative to traditional foster care that allows children to retain strong familial bonds when children cannot stay in their homes with their parents. This issue brief summarizes the findings of a series of focus groups, interviews, and surveys conducted with kinship caregivers and support providers and offers recommendations for increasing supports for kinship families. VIEW NOW

Jefferson County KIDS COUNT Data Book – 20132022-09-26T13:19:07-04:00

The Jefferson County KIDS COUNT Data Book published in 2013 provides data on children in Metro Louisville at the Council District level. This micro level data can help neighborhoods in Louisville look at unique issues impacting children in various parts of the city.

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Medicaid Expansion in Kentucky: Kids Have Much to Gain, March 20132022-09-26T13:19:23-04:00

All children, especially those living in low-income and vulnerable families need access to affordable health care. Providing affordable health coverage for parents is one proven way to improve overall family health and reduce the number of uninsured children.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20122022-09-26T13:19:37-04:00

The 2012 County Data Book focuses on key state, county, and district level measures of education. It opens with an essay on how to strengthen alternative education programs.

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Sharing School Facilities: How Collaboration Can Increase Physical Activity in Communities, May 20122022-09-26T13:19:54-04:00

Shared-use allows spaces such as gymnasiums, tracks, cafeterias, athletic fields and other school facilities to be used for recreation by community members of all ages. This report outlines the current landscape of shared-use agreements and explains the challenges and opportunities for opening more shared-use facilities in communities across Kentucky.

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Ending the Use of Incarceration for Status Offenses in Kentucky, Updated May 20122022-09-26T13:36:47-04:00

Youth incarcerated for status offenses, which are acts defined as illegal only because they are committed by people who are under 18 years of age, face greater risk of poor education, work, and health outcomes, as well as future incarceration. This issue brief provides data on youth incarceration for status offenses and provides recommendations for more efficient and effective alternatives to incarceration. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20112022-09-26T13:20:54-04:00

The 2011 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of children’s health. It opens with an essay on how to improve the oral health of Kentucky families.

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Ending Corporal Punishment in Kentucky Public Schools, December 20112022-09-26T13:21:09-04:00

A learning environment that is safe and nurturing is necessary for all children to grow and thrive in school. For children in schools that use corporal punishment, or physical force, as a form of discipline, the classroom can become a threatening environment.

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Reclaiming Futures in Kentucky, August 20112022-09-26T13:37:12-04:00

While secure detention may be appropriate for violent offenses, it is rarely an appropriate or effective option for addressing status offenses, which are offenses that are illegal if committed by someone under age 18. The Reclaiming Futures model has been developed to identify the critical stages for implementing a successful plan for youth who have been or are at risk of being charged with a status offense. VIEW NOW

Complete Streets: Venues for Safety and Wellness in Kentucky, May 20112022-09-26T13:21:41-04:00

Complete streets are designed to accommodate everyone using the road, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and public transportation users of all ages and abilities. This issue brief explains how complete streets increase safety and improve health and makes recommendations for more Kentucky communities to incorporate complete streets.

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A Picture of Health: A Report of Kentucky School Districts’ Health Services, March 20112022-09-26T13:37:33-04:00

A Picture of Health: A Report of Kentucky School Districts’ Health Services presents the findings of a study of school health services offered in Kentucky school districts during the 2008-2009 school year and offers highlights of promising practices across the state. Study topics included school health services funding, school health services offered, and types of school health providers. VIEW NOW

Increasing the High School Graduation Rate, Updated January 20112022-09-26T13:38:01-04:00

All young people need a strong education to succeed in today’s economy, and graduating from high school is more critical than ever before. Failing to graduate high school has long-term negative consequences for the individual and for society. This brief focuses on prevention of high school dropout and strategies for improving the state’s high school graduation rate. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20102022-09-26T13:26:32-04:00

The 2010 County Data Book focuses on key state and county-level measures of economic well-being. It opens with an essay on how to increase access to work supports for Kentucky families.

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Prevention of Out-of-Home Placement for Children, December 20092022-09-26T13:27:02-04:00

All children need a safe environment and caring adults to thrive. This brief focuses on prevention of out-of-home placement for children who have been abused by ensuring that family preservation services and family reunification services are available.

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KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20092022-09-26T13:27:19-04:00

The 2009 County Data Book focuses on key state and county level measures of safety. It opens with an essay on the need for better collaboration between the juvenile justice and child welfare systems.

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Opportunities Lost: Racial Disparities in Juvenile Justice in Kentucky and Identified Needs for System Change, September 20092022-09-26T13:38:23-04:00

Though unintentional, the system of juvenile justice results in different vulnerabilities, treatment, and outcomes for youth of color compared to white youth, even when they have engaged in the very same behaviors. This issue brief includes data that shows that youth of color are clearly over represented at some of the key decision-making points within Kentucky’s juvenile justice system and provides recommendations for eliminating these disparities. VIEW NOW

A Cycle of Debt: Kentucky Families Share Their Experiences with Payday Lending and Other High-Cost Financial Services, June 20092022-09-26T13:38:45-04:00

All families need reasonably-priced financial services to pay bills and provide for their families. Yet, low-income families in Kentucky often pay higher prices than higher-income families for basic financial services, such as cashing a check or taking out a small loan. This report presents information that was shared by low-income working families across the state about their financial situations and use of financial products, specifically payday loans. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20082022-09-26T13:28:46-04:00

The 2008 County Data Book includes key state, county, and district level measures of education, economic well-being, health and safety. It opens with an essay on the influence of three factors on the lives of Kentucky children: place, income and race.

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Payday Lending: Whittling Away at Working Families’ Income, February 20082022-09-26T13:39:02-04:00

All families need a steady, stable income to meet basic needs and support their children’s healthy development, yet many Kentucky families struggle to make it until their next payday. Some families rely on short-term payday loans to make ends meet, but working Kentuckians lose millions of dollars annually in fees paid for these loans.  This report details the higher costs low-income families pay for goods and services. VIEW NOW

KIDS COUNT County Data Book – 20072022-09-26T13:29:24-04:00

The 2007 County Data Book includes key state, county, and district level measures of education, economic well-being, health and safety. It opens with an essay on the importance of using data to improve the lives of children in Kentucky.

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The High Price of Being Poor in Kentucky, July 20072022-09-26T13:39:22-04:00

Lower-income families in Kentucky often pay hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars more in higher prices for basic necessities than their higher-income neighbors. Although not a new problem, the costs today are much greater in scope. This report examines the prices charged to lower-income families in Kentucky for basic necessities: financial services, auto-related products, home financing and household goods, and groceries. VIEW NOW

The High Cost of Being Poor: Families Speak Out, July 20072022-09-26T13:30:08-04:00

To better understand how the “high cost of being poor” is affecting local families, Kentucky Youth Advocates conducted in-depth interviews and focus groups throughout the Commonwealth. In this report, KYA focused on how families manage the costs of basic goods and services, and what they think is needed to help bring down these costs.

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Bullying: A Schoolhouse Reality for Kentucky Students, February 20072023-09-06T14:42:52-04:00

Bullying can result in substantial long-term negative impacts for the victim, the bully, the school’s learning environment, and society as a whole. This issue brief presents findings about bullying in Kentucky and offers recommendations for effectively responding to and preventing bullying.

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Mulch, Hoops and Homemade Pie, 20062022-09-26T13:30:44-04:00

Mulch, Hoops and Homemade PieA Report to the Kentucky State Board of Education on A5 and A6 Programs in the Commonwealth.

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Kentucky’s Cavity: Parents Voice Concerns about Children’s Dental Care in their Communities, 20052022-09-26T13:31:05-04:00

Many Kentucky families face barriers when trying to access dental care, including lack of transportation to dental offices, lack of dental coverage, and a shortage of dental care providers in some areas. In this report, parents share experiences in obtaining dental health services for their children in communities across Kentucky.

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