Child Trends is the nation’s leading research organization focused exclusively on improving the lives of children and youth, especially those who are most vulnerable.

We work to ensure that all kids thrive by conducting independent research and partnering with practitioners and policymakers to apply that knowledge.

We believe that programs and policies that serve children are most effective when they are informed by data and evidence and grounded in deep knowledge of child and youth development.

Our team includes over 200 staff with expertise in areas including psychology, sociology, social work, statistics, public health, public policy, education, and communications, who work with passion and rigor on behalf of all children in America.

Community, state, and federal policymakers and practitioners rely on our cutting-edge research, independent analyses, actionable recommendations, and clear communications to improve policies and interventions that serve children and their families. Our partnerships with these stakeholders are two-way, with learning happening in both directions.

Child Trends has a proven track record of impact. For 40 years, we have been the nation’s most respected source for research and data on children. Our work helps set the national agenda on child well-being, shapes policies that affect children and their families, and elevates important issues for vulnerable groups of children and youth.

We imagine a better world for children and youth, and we are committed to lending our expertise, experience, and ingenuity to further this vision.