Decades of research have provided strong evidence of what an integrated early childhood system should look like. Several groups, including the Alliance for Early Success, have outlined research-backed state and local policies that can move systems closer to meeting this goal. In fact, many states and communities across the country have already put significant pieces of the puzzle in place, and others are working to integrate local programs and services. What we know is that to meet the needs of every child, these systems should focus on three primary goals: (1) Support parents as they care for their children; (2) Improve access to quality early care and education, health care, and other services; and (3) Ensure that care is comprehensive and coordinated for all children from birth through age 8. High-quality early care and education play an important role in preparing children for success and lead to higher levels of educational attainment, career advancement, and earnings. The findings in this policy report suggest that high-quality early childhood programs that include supports for families have a powerful and lasting impact on children as they progress through school and into adulthood. States have already shown great creativity in improving systems for children from birth through age 8. The federal government must work in partnership with states to build on their achievements. Policymakers at the federal, state and local levels should look to the decades of evidence on best practices in early childhood fields as they advance their legislative efforts. With such evidence on their side, elected officials, advocates, and other policymakers are well positioned to make the case for a comprehensive and integrated birth through age 8 system that ensures all children have a real chance to succeed and contribute to a stronger nation. (Contains 1 table, 3 figures, and 49 endnotes.) [Writing assistance for this report was provided by Deborah Stein, Amy Saltzman, Thomas Showalter, Shelley Waters-Boots, Jessica Donaldson, Florencia Gutierrez, and Laura Speer.]