The first eight years of a child’s life set the foundation for their health,
safety and overall 
well being
well-being.
Our Eight Essential Outcomes provide a framework for Black child development from birth through age 8.
We envision a world in which every Black child…
Lives And Plays In A Safe Community
Lives in an uplifting community where they can
play, explore and thrive
When Black children grow up in safe and supportive physical and social environments, they experience a sense of community that promotes long-term resilience.
Is Born At A Healthy Weight
Is born at a
healthy weight,
When Black children are born between 5.5 and 8 pounds, they are more likely to lead healthy lives.
Attends A School That Affirms And Expands Them
Attends a school that
affirms and expands them
When Black children participate in schools that support who they are, it expands the potential for who they can become
Is Seen As A Child
Is seen as a
child
When Black children are perceived as children, their self expression and imaginative exploration is protected.
Enjoys Meals With Vegetables
Enjoys
meals with vegetables
When Black children have access to culturally-relevant meals that provide them with the nutrition they need to grow while honoring their culture, they are more likely to maintain their health and wellbeing.
Breathes Clean Air And Drinks Clean Water
Breathes
clean air and drinks clean water
When Black children have sustained access to clean air and water, they are able to develop into strong and healthy adults
Has Books And Toys That Reflect Who They Are And Can Be
Has books and toys that reflect
who they are and can be
When Black Children see characters and read stories that reflect who they are, their positive self-identity and self-esteem improve, as well as their empathy and understanding of their own and other cultures.
Hangs Out On A Safe And Appropriate Internet
Hangs out on a safe and
appropriate internet
When Black children engage with digital content that is both safe and developmentally appropriate, learning is fun, and they build digital skills.