Introduces this special issue and presents a variety of clinical, research, interview, classroom, observation, assessment, and survey techniques. These techniques are intended to improve children's lives. Notes that some of the articles provide theoretical support for the techniques suggested and used, some describe programmatic models, and some…

Suggests that, considering the many benefits to mothers, babies, and caregivers, maintaining the breastfeeding relationship is an important aspect of quality child care. Provides an extended list of breastfeeding advantages. Proposes that care providers should fully realize the positive difference breastfeeding can make, encourage mothers' choice…

Research demonstrates that children develop psychological "resilience" through the fostering of certain protective factors in their lives. Youth programs can promote development of these protective factors by helping children build attachments to adults and others and develop social competence and by providing meaningful participation in…

Examines the quality of care and education for Curacao's children under the age of four. Notes that, whereas the children's health situation is generally good and stable, child abuse and negligence are on the rise, and there is a growing need for good quality child-care centers. (TJQ)

Describes the present status of early childhood education in Turkey, contrasting the provision of government-supported preschools and increased formal educational opportunities in urban areas with the lack of preschool education in rural areas. The important role of primary teachers in rural villages is also discussed, as well as new government…

The report by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, "Starting Points: Meeting the Needs of Our Youngest Children," presents a comprehensive strategy for child well-being. Parent education and universal health coverage are but two aspects of an approach that considers the needs of all families. (SLD)

Participants in a weekend camp program developed for families of children with AIDS indicated that the experience gave them a respite from daily challenges and provided them with a sense of community. Families participated in arts and crafts, a challenge course, fishing, horseback riding, cooking, and parent support groups. (LP)

Examines adolescents' health-care needs and the barriers that keep young people from receiving services. Explores the role of school-based health services in adolescents' health care and discusses access to care, adolescent demographics and health-risk factors, services and program philosophy, service utilization, and the continuum of care. (RJM)

To aid at-risk children, summer intervention programs must emphasize links between physical well-being and drug awareness, nutrition, health, and safety. West Virginia's Project YES (Youth Enrichment Services) is a comprehensive, community-based program highlighting many aspects of child development. The article describes the program's history,…

Describes a 15-year study of cardiovascular disease-related nutrients in a school lunch program. According to the findings, although school lunches contributed less than one-third of total daily nutrients, intakes of diet components related to cardiovascular disease risk were excessive. (SM)

The number of accidental deaths and injuries could be reduced if more children knew how to identify potentially dangerous situations, respond effectively to emergencies, and properly treat common injuries. Parents must teach their children self-care and safety skills, demonstrating, guiding, and praising the children as they practice the skills.…

Analyzes a number of financing options commonly proposed to pay for health care reform, considering the costs and benefits to society as a whole. Outlines criteria that can be used to evaluate various revenue options, and discusses the effect that these plans would have on children, especially those not presently covered by health insurance. (MDM)

Reports on a national survey that measured elementary school teachers' attitudes on child health and its impact on school readiness and that asked for solutions. One conclusion is that health-care professionals, schools, and parents must work together to solve the child-health crisis. (SM)

Advances in medical technology have enabled more children who are medically fragile and technologically dependent to survive. Local school districts must determine whether a particular service is a "related service" covered by the Education for the Handicapped Act (EHA) or a "medical service" excluded under EHA. Reviews court…

Describes the accomplishments and distinguishing features of California's Healthy Start Program, a statewide, school-linked initiative to provide health and human services support to children and their families at the local level. (MDM)