New Mexico is home to nearly 70,000 infants and toddlers. New Mexico families are the state’s strongest asset, yet current policies aren’t meeting their needs. Children’s growth and development are shaped by early life experiences. Good health, secure and stable families, and positive early learning environments foster children’s physical, intellectual, and social-emotional development. Culturally and linguistically appropriate programs and policies that are developed in collaboration with local communities are also essential to their success.

This profile provides an overview of several key policy areas—including home visiting, child care assistance, minimum wage, and cash assistance—that would be particularly impactful for families with infants and toddlers in New Mexico.