Child Development

Who are children in Illinois? As a whole, kids in Illinois account for 27% of the state’s entire population of almost 13 million. This demographic group is 3,179,260 strong and exhibits diversity that is comparable to the adult population. White children make up 56% of the total juvenile population in Illinois, Hispanic and African-American children comprise 20% and 18% of it respectively. The remaining 6% is made up of various ethnic groups.

The following statistics provide an eye-opening glimpse into social conditions experienced by many children in our state.

22% of Illinois children live in poverty. This is the highest percentage of all demographic groups.
280,000 Illinois children are not covered by health insurance yet 592,000 children have special health care needs.
69% of fourth-graders in Illinois read below grade level. 68% perform below grade level in math.
In 2006, 409 Illinois teens died in accidents, homicides, and suicides.
35% of children aged 10 to 17 years of age are obese and a full 54% do not exercise regularly.
31,058 children were victims of abuse and neglect during the previous year.
There are currently 17,875 Illinois children in foster homes. The average stay in foster care is 49.6 months, or over four years.