How the Next President Can Build a Foundation for a Healthy Future: Improving Children’s Lives

* Abbreviation: AAP — : American Academy of Pediatrics In a tumultuous and unpredictable election year, Americans selected Donald Trump as our 45th president. Mr Trump’s approach to policymaking is still unknown, and his positions on certain issues do not follow the typical partisan patterns within American politics. However, Mr Trump has expressed support for family-oriented policies, including paid family leave and child care subsidies. His administration may present an opportunity to continue working on efforts to provide children with the essential elements needed to lead healthy and productive lives. The priorities and policy decisions President Trump takes will have a lasting impact on our nation’s future. To help guide these decisions, in advance of the election, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) laid out a comprehensive plan for the federal government to give children, families, communities, and the nation a solid foundation for the future. The Academy’s plan, Blueprint for Children: How the Next President Can Build a Foundation for a Healthy Future, is grounded in the belief that society’s health depends on its children’s well-being.1 It reflects the AAP’s commitment to programs and policies that improve the lives of children and families so they can achieve their full potential. The Blueprint contains a high-level policy vision as well as many specific administrative and legislative recommendations relevant to 24 federal agencies and departments that can influence the … Address correspondence to Benard P. Dreyer, MD, 564 1st Ave, Apt 23 E, New York, NY 10016-6469. E-mail: benard.dreyer{at}nyumc.org