In these difficult economic times, Arkansas faces major challenges in meeting the needs of vulnerable children and families. Decreasing tax revenues and growing demand for services and support require tough decisions, thoughtful approaches and the political courage to balance a range of demands on state government. This year’s release of the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s annual KIDS COUNT Data Book is the perfect opportunity to stop and reflect on how these challenges affect the daily lives of Arkansas children and their families. It also allows us to see how Arkansas children and youth compare to other states.