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U.S. gender wage gap grows for first time in a decade; Trump has embraced NC's Mark Robinson, calling him 'Martin Luther King on steroids'; Volunteers sought as early voting kicks off in MN; Women's political contributions in congressional races fall short of men's.

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Rising threats of political violence, a Federal Reserve rate cut, crypto industry campaign contributions and reproductive rights are shaping today's political landscape.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

First 8 Years Give TN Children Foundation for Success

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Tuesday, November 5, 2013   

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A new report says the first eight years of a child's life are the most critical in determining if he or she will go on to success or perhaps struggle throughout life, and that's why investments are needed.

According to Linda O'Neal, executive director of the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, the strategy must focus on all aspects of a child's well being from health to education to the financial stability of the family.

"We need to create a comprehensive, coordinated approach that starts with improving parenting for infants and toddlers,” she insists, “and continues through prekindergarten and elementary school programs to really give children the opportunities to succeed and to ensure a brighter future, not only for those children but for the economic prosperity of the state."

The report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation found that for third graders, nearly two in three are behind in terms of cognitive development. The figures for low-income and minority children are even worse.

In Tennessee, O'Neal says more than half of children live in poverty or in families considered low income, and that's why the efforts on behalf of children also need to support their parents.

"Young children succeed when their parents have the opportunity to support them, to provide them with the nurturing and the learning opportunities,” she explains. “So we're talking about real threats for the future of Tennessee if we don't figure out ways to provide the coordinated and integrated services to help parents succeed and help children succeed."

The report suggests improvements in the transition from preschool to elementary school, which can include data sharing.





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