"This book documents the early lives of almost 19,000 children born in the UK at the start of the 21st century, and their families. It is the first time that analysis of data from the hugely important Millennium Cohort Study, a longitudinal study following the progress of the children and their families, has been drawn together in a single volume. The unrivalled data is examined here to address important policy and scientific issues. The book is also the first in a series of publications that will report on the children's lives at different stages of their development." "The fascinating range of findings presented here is strengthened by comparison with data on earlier generations. This has enabled the authors to assess the impact of a wide range of policies on the life courses of a new generation, including policies on child health, parenting, childcare and social exclusion. The book also includes the under-researched perspectives of minority ethnic families and fathers, and assesses the impact of devolution on the lives of those living in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In addition, the book has important insights about service planning for the 21st century in health and social services, epidemiological analyses, and forecasting and actuarial forecasts for pensions and life expectancy." "It is essential reading for academics, students and researchers in the health and social sciences. It will also be a useful resource for policy makers and practitioners who are interested in childhood, child development, child poverty, child health, childcare and family policy."--BOOK JACKET.