First 5 OC is excited to share the 2025 Early Developmental Index findings, which features updated data that provides an in-depth look at the Orange County’s kindergarten readiness.
While overall readiness numbers have improved from the last data collection, the 2025 data reveals a decline in the Emotional Maturity domain. These trends underscore the urgent need for expanded mental health supports, trauma-informed care, and social-emotional learning strategies—especially in the early years.
The Santa Ana Early Learning Initiative and Latino Dad Connection are using Santa Ana-specific EDI data to design workshops that support social-emotional regulation for both children and parents. These programs address rising concerns in emotional maturity, equipping families with tools for emotional wellness and helping children build empathy, resilience, and self-regulation.
Discover the other EDI domains and see how organizations across Orange County are leveraging the data to strengthen children’s development at first5oc.org/edi.
