Starting young: Improving the health and developmental outcomes of infantsand toddlers in the child welfare system

The number of infants and toddlers entering out-of-home care has increased dramatically in the past few years, yet few published reports examine their needs. This article describes a collaborative, multidisciplinary developme ntal follow-up program for infants and toddlers that builds on the communit y-based family support model described in the Family to Family Foster Care Reform Initiative. The children's health and developmental status, as well as the program's effectiveness, are highlighted.