Noting that one of every eight Ohio children live in Appalachian counties and that preparing these children to become productive, contributing members of Appalachia's culture and economy hinges on making sure that all children are healthy, ready for school, and attend safe and effective public schools, this report is the first to examine health care, early care and education, and public education for Ohio's Appalachian children. Among the major findings of the report are that household income in Appalachia increased at a faster rate than in the rest of Ohio during the 1990s, although overall incomes remained lower than those statewide, with child poverty rates higher than those in the rest of the state. Welfare rolls have dropped dramatically since 1995. Compared to the rest of the state, there are fewer health care and child care programs available to serve Appalachian children. Despite fewer educational resources available in Ohio's urban and suburban schools, Appalachia's achievement rates on Ohio's Proficiency Tests are about equal to statewide results. In spite of poverty and limited resources, Appalachian communities are working to create partnerships and services to meet children's needs. The report includes an action agenda detailing suggestions for local leaders, businesses, and other community groups to help ensure the healthy development of children in Ohio's Appalachian region. The report further provides contact information for the programs profiled in the report. Statewide trends are noted for each indicator presented in the accompanying factsheets. Region-wide and county factsheets detail: (1) population, poverty rates, and welfare rolls; (2) children enrolled in Medicaid; (3) key birth outcomes; (4) oral health status of third graders; (5) child care costs, assistance, and supply; (6) Head Start enrollment; and (7) school district proficiency test results and trends. (Contains 36 references.) (KB)