This paper highlights deficits in key determinants of Aboriginal children's wellness and education outcomes. It focuses on the potential for early childhood programming, delivered in concert with other programmatic supports, to form a significant part of a comprehensive strategy involving all levels of government, in partnerships with Aboriginal groups, to ensure equity and dignity for Aboriginal young children and to improve outcomes for Aboriginal Peoples over the long term. Outstanding needs for population data and for research on program outcomes are also highlighted as part of the solution because they can inform investments and program improvements to ensure accountability and critical gains in opportunities for success and quality of life for Aboriginal children. (author abstract)