In 2021, there were 168,063 white children in foster care in the United States. This is compared to 86,645 Black or African American children and 85,215 Hispanic children who were in foster care.

Foster care in the United States

Foster care is where minors are taken care of in different institutions, such as a group home or private home of a caregiver certified by the state (called a foster parent). The procedure for becoming a foster parent in the United States varies from state to state. It is up to the state to determine the process; however it is overseen by the Department of Child Protective Services. It is sometimes seen as a precursor to adoption, which is different from fostering a child. There are many barriers to fostering and adopting children, such as high costs and long wait times, which can discourage people from doing it.

Who are foster children?

The number of children in foster care in the United States has decreased slightly since 2011. When looked at by age, most of the children in foster care in 2020 were one year old, and slightly more male children were in foster care than female children. Most of the children in foster care were placed into non-relative foster family homes, and in most cases, the primary goal of foster care is to reunify children with their parents or primary caregivers.

In 2023, around 16,438 children in California who were the victims of child abuse were in foster care, the most out of any state. Florida, Texas, Arizona, and Illinois rounded out the five leading states for children in foster care in that year.

In 2022, about 368,530 children in the United States were living in foster care. This is a sharp decrease from the previous year, when about 407,318 children were living in foster care nationwide.

Excel version of report to City Council required per LL 147

In 2022, about 25,338 children under one-year-old in the United States were living in foster care. In that same year, about 20,163 children aged 16 years old were living in foster care nationwide.

States report information from two reporting populations: (1) The Served Population which is information on all youth receiving at least one independent living services paid or provided by the Chafee Program agency, and (2) Youth completing the NYTD Survey. States survey youth regarding six outcomes: financial self-sufficiency, experience with homelessness, educational attainment, positive connections with adults, high-risk behaviors, and access to health insurance. States collect outcomes information by conducting a survey of youth in foster care on or around their 17th birthday, also referred to as the baseline population. States will track these youth as they age and conduct a new outcome survey on or around the youth's 19th birthday; and again on or around the youth's 21st birthday, also referred to as the follow-up population. States will collect outcomes information on these older youth at ages 19 or 21 regardless of their foster care status or whether they are still receiving independent living services from the State. Depending on the size of the State's foster care youth population, some States may conduct a random sample of the baseline population of the 17-year-olds that participate in the outcomes survey so that they can follow a smaller group of youth as they age. All States will collect and report outcome information on a new baseline population cohort every three years.

Units of Response: Current and former youth in foster care

Type of Data: Administrative

Tribal Data: No

Periodicity: Annual

Demographic Indicators: Ethnicity;Race;Sex

SORN: Not Applicable

Data Use Agreement: https://www.ndacan.acf.hhs.gov/datasets/request-dataset.cfm

Data Use Agreement Location: https://www.ndacan.acf.hhs.gov/datasets/order_forms/termsofuseagreement.pdf

Granularity: Individual

Spatial: United States

Geocoding: FIPS Code

In 2022, about 108,877 children in the United States were waiting to be adopted. This is a decrease from a high of 133,682 children who were waiting to be adopted nationwide in 2007.

In the United States, most children living in foster care were in foster care for two years or less. However, in 2021, about 23,493 children living in foster care were in foster care for five years or more.

In the United States, most children who exited foster care, about half, exited due to reunification with their parents or primary caregivers. In 2022, about 91,115 children exited foster care in this manner. A further 52,985 children exited the foster care system through adoption.

Numbers and rates of child victims by single year age and by state for the most recent federal fiscal year for which data are available.

To view more National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS) findings, click link to summary page below: https://healthdata.gov/stories/s/kaeg-w7jc

Numbers, percentages, and rates of referrals to child protectives services, by state for the most recent federal fiscal year for which data are available. A referral is a notification to the CPS agency of suspected child maltreatment. Referrals may include more than one child.

To view more National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS) findings, click link to summary page below: https://healthdata.gov/stories/s/kaeg-w7jc

Increases in wages and purchase costs have challenged group homes' expenses to erode revenue. However, the industry's weak performance is mainly attributed to declines in demand, the impact of professional advocates campaigning for smaller, community-based settings and government policies supporting transitions to family settings and foster homes. Various socioeconomic conditions had also negatively impacted service providers' earnings. And contributing to softening in demand are decreases in crime, divorce and incarceration rates, which have reduced stressors on families and individuals and the need for group home services. Despite shifts in policy towards family settings, group homes and congregate care facilities serving newborns to young adults continue to provide services, but with industry revenue dropping at a CAGR of 1.0% through 2025 and gaining 0.2% to $9.9 billion in 2025 alone. Unfortunately, under-capacity does provide specific opportunities for group homes by encouraging them to diversify their services and engage more with their local community, including providing support for families. Providers can improve their financial performance by spurring demand by adopting new care and technology strategies, including trauma-informed care and technology-based, efficient health monitoring. The industry will see a higher growth in the number of enterprises than establishments, signaling a trend towards consolidation. However, the placement of enterprises may be influenced more by historical profitability rather than current market needs, potentially leading to a rise in closures of lower-performing providers. California, for instance, has a surplus of service providers for its population size, while some states have a shortage. Despite governmental policies favoring family-centered environments, a lack of foster homes across numerous states could thwart the shift away from group homes and residential treatment facilities will still be required for children who struggle to adapt or fit into a foster setting. Facing these challenges and remaining uncertain over the federal budget impacts for FY 2026, industry revenue is estimated to edge upward at a CAGR of 0.3%, to reach $10.1 billion through 2030, with declining profit.

Since 1960, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has provided estimates of expenditures on children from birth through age 17. This technical report presents the most recent estimates for married- couple and single-parent families using data from the 2011-15 Consumer Expenditure Survey (all data presented in 2015 dollars). Data and methods used in calculating annual child-rearing expenses are described. Estimates are provided for married-couple and single-parent families with two children for major components of the budget by age of child, family income, and region of residence. For the overall United States, annual child-rearing expense estimates ranged between $12,350 and $13,900 for a child in a two-child, married-couple family in the middle-income group. Adjustment factors for households with less than or greater than two children are also provided. Expenses vary considerably by household income level, region, and composition, emphasizing that a single estimate may not be applicable to all families. Results of this study may be of use in developing State child support and foster care guidelines, as well as public health and family-centered educational programs. i

Counts and rates of child fatalities by file submission type for the most recent federal fiscal year for which data are available.

To view more National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS) findings, click link to summary page below: https://healthdata.gov/stories/s/kaeg-w7jc

According to a survey conducted in 2021, ** percent of Americans approved of parents adopting a child of a different race in the United States while ** percent of Americans approved of parents in a same sex relationship adopting a child in the United States.

Check out the new, interactive program dashboard with the most recent data available

NOTE: This dataset will be retired soon. Please visit the link above.

This dashboard contains participation data related to seven California Health & Human Services agency programs: CalWORKs, CalFresh, In-Home Supportive Services, Foster Care, Medi-Cal, Women, Infants, & Children, and Developmental Services. Users are able to view these data at the county level or by legislative district level (U.S. Congress, State Assembly, State Senate). Statistics on persons served, persons per case, average grant amount, and basic demographics are presented in both tabular spreadsheets and customizable visualizations by program. In addition to presenting statistics for each program separately, the dashboard also provides data on the number of individuals participating in more than one program at the same time in a given district or county. We use monthly point-in-time data; see Sources and Methodology document for more details.

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US Early Childhood Education Market Size 2025-2029

The US early childhood education market size is forecast to increase by USD 5.37 billion at a CAGR of 4.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. One major trend is the increasing number of parents returning to the workforce, leading to a rising demand for high-quality early childhood education programs. Another growth driver is the launch of new education initiatives aimed at improving early childhood development and preparing children for future academic success. The child education system is evolving, with technology-driven innovations such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, applied learning, and personalized learning playing a significant role. However, the market also faces challenges such as workforce shortages and high turnover rates, which can impact the quality of education and consistency for children. Addressing these challenges through strategies like increased funding for teacher training and retention programs will be crucial for the continued growth of the market.

What will be the Size of the market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a range of services and programs designed to foster psychological, social, emotional, and biological development in young children. With a growing awareness among parents and policymakers of the importance of early childhood development, the market has seen significant activity in recent years. Play-based learning, social development, and emotional preparedness are key focus areas, with an emphasis on creating high-quality learning environments that support childcare workforce professional development and early literacy, numeracy, and creativity. 


Early intervention programs address developmental milestones and special needs, while preschool enrollment and kindergarten programs aim to ensure school readiness. Funding and subsidies play a crucial role in making early childhood education more accessible and affordable for working parents. Innovation In the sector includes the integration of technology such as augmented reality and virtual reality, dual language programs, and social-emotional learning. Overall, the market continues to evolve, driven by ongoing research and a commitment to providing comprehensive, developmentally appropriate programs for young children.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

School Level

  Preschool
  Kindergarten
  Day care


Sector

  Public
  Private


Type

  Full work day
  Part day
  Full school day


Geography

  US

By School Level Insights

The preschool segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. A key feature of preschools is their structured learning environment, which emphasizes early academic concepts. This structured approach helps children develop foundational literacy, numeracy, and cognitive skills. Additionally, preschools incorporate play-based learning, which encourages exploration and creativity. This method of learning through play is fundamental to preschool education, as it fosters a love for learning and supports the development of critical thinking skills.

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Market Dynamics

Our market researchers analyzed the data with 2024 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in adoption of US Early Childhood Education Market?

Rising parental workforce participation is the key driver of the market. The Early Childhood Education (ECE) market In the US is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing number of earning parents. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the percentage of children under six with both parents In the workforce increased from 65% in 2015 to 69% in 2023. This trend is particularly prominent in MidWestern and North Eastern states. This shift in workforce demographics has led to a heightened demand for dependable and superior ECE programs. Trained professionals, comprehensive child development, and evidence-based practices are becoming essential components of these programs. Early childhood learning is recognized as crucial during the impressionable age, and educational institutions are integrating technology-integrated classrooms, interactive whiteboards, online learning platforms, educational apps, and self-directed play to cater to individual needs.
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The numbers of single perpetrator relationships (unique count) are counted once for each relationship category. Perpetrators with two or more relationships are counted in the multiple relationship category. Numbers are for the most recent federal fiscal year for which data are available.

To view more National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS) findings, click link to summary page below: https://healthdata.gov/stories/s/kaeg-w7jc

This dataset was compiled by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) at the request of the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet. This data contains the population of youth ages 13-26 in each county, the total population of each county, and the number and rate of index crimes reported, with domestic violence offenses and rates reported separately for every year between 2006 and 2015.

For the purpose of this analysis the crime data was gathered from the Illinois State Police Annual report Crime in Illinois. This publication is produced by the Illinois State Police every year using the UCR data that is submitted to them by individual jurisdictions throughout the state. The accuracy of this data presented is dependent on the local jurisdictions reporting their index crime and domestic violence offenses to ISP, so it can be included in the annual report.

Therefore, if there is large decrease in number of index crimes reported in the dataset it is likely that one or more jurisdictions did not report data for that year to ISP. If there is a large increase from year to year within a county it is likely that a jurisdiction within the county, who previously had not reported crime data, did report crime data for that year. If there is no reported crime in a certain year that means no jurisdictions, or a small jurisdiction with no crime from that county reported data to the Illinois State Police. The annual Crime in Illinois reports can be found on the ISP website www.isp.state.il.us.

A direct link to that annual reports is: http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/ucrhome.cfm#anlrpts.

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority did not record the data that is expressed in the dataset. ICJIA simply used the ISP reports to compile that yearly crime data into one chart that could be provided to the Illinois Governor’s Children’s Cabinet. This data set has be critically examined to be accurate according to the annual Crime in Illinois Reports. If there are issues with the data set provided please contact the Illinois State Police or the individual jurisdictions within a specific county.

**Index offenses do not include every crime event that occurs. Prior to 2014 there were 8 index crimes reported by the Illinois State Police in their annual reports, Criminal Homicide, Rape, Robbery, Aggravated Battery/Aggravated Assault, Burglary, Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, and Arson. In 2014 there were two new offenses added to the list of index crimes these were Human Trafficking – Commercial Sex Acts and Human Trafficking – Involuntary Servitude. These are the index crimes that are recorded in the chart provided.

**“Domestic offenses are defined as offenses committed between family or household members. Family or household members include spouses; former spouses; parents; children; foster parents; foster children; legal guardians and their wards; stepchildren; other persons related by blood (aunt, uncle, cousin) or by present or previous marriage (in-laws); persons who share, or formerly shared, a common dwelling; persons who have, or allegedly have, a child in common; persons who share, or allegedly share, a blood relationship through a child; persons who have, or have had, a dating or engagement relationship; and persons with disabilities, their personal care assistants, or care givers outside the context of an employee of a public or private care facility. Every offense that occurs, when a domestic relationship exists between the victim and offender, must be reported (Illinois State Police).”

**“Offenses reported are not limited to domestic battery and violations of orders of protection; offenses most commonly associated with domestic violence (Illinois State Police).”

The crime rate was compiled using the total population, and the index crime. The Index crime whether all crime or Domestic Violence crime was divided by the total population then multiplied by 10,000, hence crime rate per 10,000.

The sources of data are the Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program and the U.S. Census Bureau.

The source of the description is the Illinois State Police and their Reporting guidelines and forms.

Kids Activity Box Market Outlook

The global market size of the Kids Activity Box was valued at approximately USD 2.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 4.7 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period. This robust growth can be attributed to several factors, including rising parental awareness regarding the importance of early childhood education and the increasing demand for engaging and educational activities that can be enjoyed at home.

One of the primary growth factors driving the Kids Activity Box market is the growing emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Parents and educators are increasingly recognizing the importance of introducing these concepts to children at an early age to foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Activity boxes that focus on science kits and educational kits are particularly popular as they provide hands-on learning experiences that are both fun and educational.

Another significant growth factor is the increasing trend of subscription-based services. Subscription boxes offer a convenient and engaging way for parents to provide their children with a variety of activities and materials regularly. These boxes often come with curated content that caters to different age groups and interests, ensuring that children remain engaged and challenged. The recurring nature of subscription services also ensures steady revenue streams for companies operating in this market.

Furthermore, the rising disposable income of families, especially in emerging economies, is contributing to the growth of the Kids Activity Box market. As more families attain higher income levels, they are more willing to spend on educational and recreational products for their children. Additionally, the shift towards dual-income households means that parents have less time to create and organize activities for their children, driving the demand for ready-made activity kits that can be easily used at home.

From a regional perspective, North America holds a significant share of the Kids Activity Box market, driven by strong demand in the United States and Canada. The presence of major market players and high consumer awareness in the region contribute to this dominance. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, fueled by the increasing population, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness of early childhood education in countries like China and India.

Product Type Analysis

The Kids Activity Box market is segmented by product type into Craft Kits, Science Kits, Puzzle Kits, Educational Kits, and Others. Each of these segments offers unique benefits and caters to different aspects of child development and interest areas. Craft Kits, for example, are highly popular for their ability to foster creativity and fine motor skills in children. These kits often include materials for arts and crafts projects such as drawing, painting, and sculpting, allowing children to explore their artistic abilities.

Science Kits are another critical segment that has seen substantial growth in recent years. These kits are designed to introduce children to basic scientific concepts through hands-on experiments and activities. They cover various topics such as chemistry, biology, physics, and astronomy, making learning fun and interactive. The growing emphasis on STEM education has significantly boosted the demand for science kits, as parents and educators seek to prepare children for future academic and career opportunities in science and technology fields.

Puzzle Kits, which include jigsaw puzzles, brain teasers, and logic games, are essential for developing cognitive skills, problem-solving abilities, and spatial awareness in children. These kits are designed to be challenging yet enjoyable, providing children with hours of entertainment while simultaneously enhancing their mental capabilities. Puzzle kits are particularly popular among parents who want to encourage their children to think critically and develop patience and perseverance.

Educational Kits encompass a broad range of activities and materials that aim to teach children various academic subjects such as mathematics, language arts, and social studies. These kits often include workbooks, flashcards, and interactive games that make learning engaging and effective. Educational kits are highly valued by parents and educators for their ability to supplement formal education and provide c