Hawaii’s children are among the nation’s healthiest, according to the most recent data published by the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH). Areas where Hawaii’s children exceed the national level include having been breastfed, oral health, vigorous daily activity and positive social skills. More of Hawaii’s children are insured (96.2%), compared to Mainland children (90.9%), which may explain why they receive more preventative care.
Children in Hawaii fall slightly below national levels for days of school missed (5.7 in the las year, compared to 5.8 for Mainland children) and watch slightly more TV (55.9% watch TV one or more hours a day, versus 54.4%).
Still, children are highly valued in Hawaii’s culture, and it shows in these latest health data.