Washington - Dr. Phyllis Cavens
Updated November 2006

Dr. Phyllis Cavens attended the Governor’s Early Learning Summit where she was able to meet children’s advocates and others interested in highlighting the importance of early education.  “I thought it revealed an understanding, at both the state and local level, of the linkage required in order to have ‘healthy children ready to learn.’”  Dr. Cavens feels that pediatricians have a responsibility to provide universal screening, early identification and early intervention for maternal mental health problems and young children’s behavioral and learning problems.  “We must impact early brain development, early nurturing and parenting skills if we are going to improve readiness to learn.” 

In addition to appreciating the opportunity to meet with key figures in the early learning movement, Dr. Cavens believes that the knowledge and information gained from the Summit will be useful to her and her work.  She is currently active in an early learning coalition which represents all the local clinics, schools, agencies, and organizations that provide services for children 0-6 years.  The coalition has partnered with the United Way to help implement the Born Learning Program. 

Dr. Cavens was able to meet with and discuss a proposal with Governor Chris Gregoire.  The proposal, Healthy Tomorrows, will increase access to well child care from birth on to ensure that children are ready to learn when they enter kindergarten.