Discusses the substance of project TIES (Teaching Interpersonal Skills to Strengthen Systems), a short-term project designed to enhance the mission of Head Start. Primary goals of TIES were to enhance the affective environment of Head Start children, families and staff, and increase the availability of high quality mental health services. (RWB)

Describes the role of the guardian "ad litem"--a person invested with the power and duty to protect the rights and interests of a child (or incompetent person) involved in litigation. Areas of consensus arrived at during the first national policy conference on the use of guardians "ad litem" are listed. (Author/RH)

Examines research about serious childhood injuries. Describes a state program that tries to ensure the safety of children in family day care homes. (PCB)

Summarizes longitudinal and other research on (1) demographic and family predictors of mild mental retardation in children and (2) the effects of two types of early education programs on child performance. (Author/ RH)

Looks at the mission of Camp Adventure, a U.S. cultural contact summer camp program contracted between the Department of Defense and the University of Oregon for the children of military personnel overseas. (RWB)