For all students to achieve a certain academic achievement level, educators must broaden their understanding of how children learn and ensure that financial resources are provided for child- and family-support services beginning at birth. This article reviews research that forms the basis for this recommendation, highlighting the School of the…

This study compared two methods for evaluating ecological and developmental factors in Individualized Family Service Plans for families of young children with disabilities. The two methods were (1) goals and objectives written from a curriculum-based assessment, and (2) a computerized list of goals and objectives based on professional judgment.…

A British adult education center successfully offered foreign language instruction to children and adults together. Lessons learned from the experience include limiting attendance to 1 child per adult, targeting children aged 9-10, and extending the course to 20-25 weeks. (SK)

Presents an Izaak Walton League of America's Save Our Streams (SOS) program that teaches citizens how to protect streams. This organization provides activities for families, school groups, scout troops, 4-H clubs and other youth organizations. (MCO)

This article describes a hospital-based education program that provides early intervention services to infants with chronic health impairments and developmental disabilities and their families during hospitalization. Emphasis is on family-centered care and transition to home/community services. An additional benefit is education of other health…

This study assessed child maltreatment group differences in 530 families receiving intensive family preservation services based on the HOMEBUILDERS model. Results indicated that neglectful families, compared to abusive ones, were poorer and more likely to be headed by a single parent, to have mental health and substance abuse problems, and to have…

Highlights the efforts of 11 Kiwanis groups across the country who have formed partnerships with Head Start centers. Sponsored activities described include (1) reading and literacy programs; (2) building and maintenance projects for centers and playgrounds; (3) a health fair; (4) a family sports event; and (5) donations of time, labor, books,…

HOMEBUILDERS, a home-based crisis intervention model, is described. The core beliefs of the program are listed; therapists' availability and caseloads are discussed; and reasons for limiting intervention to a four-week period are indicated. (BC)

Describes in-home family support programs for low-income and minority children and families. Family-centered programs attempt to link families to services that meet their educational, health and social needs. The community needs to be involved in program development if programs are to be truly helpful and supportive of families. (SH)

Describes the Residential Services for Parents program, which provides residential service for single mothers and their families. The program provides a variety of services including help with income, housing, abuse and other family dysfunctions, and prevention of separation. The program is effective in keeping families together. (GH)

Reviews and summarizes the Immigration Act of 1990, P.L. 101-649, a major revision of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) of 1952. The new legislation authorizes increased admissions, especially for those in employment programs or from underrepresented countries, and reflects new attitudes toward exclusion, deportation, and naturalization.…

One major obstacle to collaboration is perception of value--especially in urban areas where resources are shrinking and social problems are increasing. Sharing of resources is weighted by considerations of proximal benefit and proximal concern. This article shows how a New Orleans full-services school pilot project successfully garnered funding…

Addresses effects of beliefs of professionals working with families of children with disabilities and/or from culturally different groups. Considered are beliefs about groups of people such as stereotypes and generalizations, beliefs about what disabilities mean, beliefs about parenting skills, and beliefs about goal setting. Greater awareness of…

The team approach recognizes that children have multifaceted needs that cannot be effectively addressed by a single service provider. Although "Partnerships in Family-Centered Intervention" is directed toward early-intervention settings, it is a useful text for preservice teachers, family members, and others involved in the educational process.…

Describes how the clinical early intervention assessment report (CAR) can be used as a tool to promote family-centered practice. Strategies and examples for incorporating a family perspective into the CAR are presented, along with suggestions for using family-friendly terminology. An example of a rewritten CAR is provided. (Author/CR)