Researchers in many fields agree. The physical, social, and economic health and well-being of adults and society as a whole are strongly influenced by the early experiences of children, when the foundation for effective cognitive and social skills and abilities are developed. Children who have developmental delays or disabilities require and often receive early intervention. Children who have adverse experiences or prolonged toxic stress associated with poverty, child abuse and serious neglect, parental substance abuse, neighborhood violence, or maternal depression also need interventions to build the foundational skills necessary to reach their full potential. The most cost efficient time to intervene--to break the cycle of disadvantage for vulnerable children through providing access to comprehensive developmental, health, and educational resources--is in the very early ages. This report provides a snapshot of how young children and their parents in Minnesota are faring, presenting indicators and trends with regard to births, newborns, infants, and toddlers as well as with regard to family strengths and stressors. When data are available, differences based on geography, income, and race/ethnicity are also noted. The report concludes with both implications of the major trends and differences and effective strategies for improving the well-being of our most vulnerable young children. A list of data sources is included. [Funding for this paper was provided by the Minnesota Community Foundation.]