This article introduces social workers to policy and practice innovations that address men's roles as fathers. Through a critical review of research and descriptive programmatic material, this article considers the mixed implications of these policy and practice interventions for family well being and recommends future directions for policy and…

Children experiencing the trauma of divorce often feel alone and ashamed. This article describes a Virginia elementary principal's provision of school support groups to give children a chance to acknowledge their problems and discuss their feelings. The project was developed in cooperation with a community family services agency. (MLH)

State and federal budget cuts make it increasingly important for child welfare organizations to influence policy development. Accurate knowledge of legislators' beliefs about child welfare issues allows agencies and advocacy groups to develop positive means of promoting positive legislation. (SAK)

The Salvation Army Emergency Lodge in Chicago, Illinois, provides a playschool and home visitation program for homeless children and families who have recently found homes. The lodge temporarily houses families, and the playschool gives children a protective, supportive environment during their stay. (SKC)

Discusses child-care legislative reforms in Northern Ireland during economic and political uncertainty and organizational upheaval in the delivery of services to children and families. Explores the impact of new legislation and the implications of the contract culture, and considers ways in which future child-care provision can create…

Summarizes a North Carolina study examining 27 homeless parents' experiences and perceptions regarding their children's education. Semistructured interview data showed that parents perceived educational continuity and stability as very important for their children. Parents were generally satisfied with their children's education, particularly…

Reviews history and content of recent U.S. child care and family legislation comparing it to that of four European nations on five policy objectives: increasing supply, supporting maternal employment, easing burdens of child rearing, permitting parental choice, and raising quality of programs. Recent legislation brings United States slightly…

Focuses on the content of adoption disclosure counseling and the perceptions of adult adoptees and relatives about the helpfulness of counseling. Data were gathered from 225 adult adoptees and 143 biological relatives who participated in mandatory counseling services in Ontario, Canada. The majority of subjects indicated counseling was very…

In 1988, the Head Start Bureau envisioned a system fostering collaboration among Head Start, child care, and early childhood community to meet the needs of eligible preschoolers not being served by Head Start. The National Head Start Association encourages the Head Start community to develop such collaborative programs. Programs in Missouri,…

The article details statements of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, addressing respect for dignity; the "children first" principle; protection of personal integrity; protection from exploitation; consideration of cultural heritage; and rights to a family environment, to assistance when in the state's care, to…

Introduces special theme issue on concerns facing family foster care in the 21st century. Discusses the challenges of serving increased numbers of children in the out-of-home care system and areas of concern in responding to the need for change, including meeting the needs of special populations and responding to mandates for expedited permanency.…

Interviews about educational experiences and needs with 36 British working-class fathers were used to develop family "taster" courses in bricklaying, woodworking, and computers, offered at times and locations that enabled joint activities with children. Course participants welcomed the opportunity to share existing skills and develop new…

Examined the extent of family-centered practices in early intervention, professionals' and families' values about the practices, and relation of participants' characteristics to practices. Found that professionals reported more family-centered typical practice than did families. Home-based services were most predictive of frequent reports of…

Presents an exclusive interview with Karl Dennis, one of the pioneers of the wraparound approach to providing youth and family services, who shares his insights on how this system of unconditional care can help build resilient families and communities. (Author/GCP)

Surveys reactions and preferences related to a support program for siblings (N=40) of children with disabilities. Results identified the benefits participants received from the program and the different components participants preferred, such as favored recreational activities. Suggests the clinical utility of the program for school personnel…