Because foster children generally have a higher prevalence of physical, developmental, dental, or behavioral obstacles, all children in foster care from birth to age five participate in the Department of Public Health’s Children 1st program. Through a systematic process, children are identified, their risk factors are screened, and children with sufficient biological, social, and/or emotional risk factors are linked to appropriate public health programs and community-based resources. 

Children under the age of three may be eligible for the Department of Public Health’s Babies Can’t Wait program. This program provides supports and resources to assist family members and caregivers to enhance children's learning and development through everyday educational opportunities.