The nation as a whole is getting older, but variations in population growth and immigration can create big differences in the median age from place to place. The Charlotte region is no exception. While Mecklenburg's median age has risen only marginally, some neighboring counties are getting noticeably older.

All parents ask themselves “Is my child prepared?” as they think about the first day of kindergarten.  Some begin pondering this question even before their child enters a pre-k program.  Preparing children for school begins well before they step inside the classroom.  Developmental studies increasingly show the importance of a child’s first five years of life.  According to a study by Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child, the first twelve months of a child’s life hold...