Connecticut's Children: Increasingly Poor. 1998 Data Book.

This Kids Count data book examines statewide trends in the well-being of Connecticut's children. The report first examines the extent of child poverty in Connecticut, as well as its causes and effects, and suggests some possible courses of action. Following demographic information, the bulk of the report provides a statistical portrait of Connecticut's children based on 14 indicators of well-being: (1) children living in poverty; (2) family setting; (3) children in families receiving welfare benefits; (4) children receiving free or reduced-price meals; (5) low birthweight; (6) infant mortality; (7) prenatal care; (8) births to teen mothers; (9) performance on Connecticut Mastery Test; (10) performance on Connecticut Academic Performance Test; (11) high school dropout rate; (12) juvenile violent crime arrests; (13) child abuse; and (14) teen deaths. Among the findings, the report indicates that increasing numbers of children are living in poverty; the number of children in families receiving welfare benefits has declined; the low birthweight rate has increased; and test performance has improved, as has the dropout rate. Percent of births to teen mothers has remained static. The final portion of the report presents the child well-being information organized by region rather than indicator. An explanation of terms and methodology concludes the report. (HTH)