This publication contains six papers presented at the 1975 Texas Conference on Infancy. The papers present discussions of (1) intervention studies and programs for infants and families, (2) the interaction between infants and their caregivers, (3) mutual adaptation of mother and child, (4) discontinuous mothering, and (5) the emergence of self-concept. Also included is an abstract bibliography of recent infant research. "Intervention and Infant Education" traces the evolution of government programs for infants and families through the past ten years. "Competent Infants and Their Caregivers: The Feeling Is Mutual" discusses the development of competence through interaction with self, others, and inanimate objects. Ideas about ways infants learn, and descriptions of real life behaviors are presented to help caregivers understand the dynamics of developmental changes. "Reciprocal Interactions Between Infants and Mothers" explores the mutual adaptation of mother and child. It is proposed that the quality of feedback from the infant's actions influences the quality of his motivation for subsequent interaction and his competence in getting what he needs or wants. "Discontinuous Mothering - Expanding the Alternatives" reviews statistics associated with discontinuous mothering, describes its effects on children, and presents some alternatives. The need for quality caregiving is identified as a national problem, involving comprehensive economic, political and social factors. "Roots in Infancy for Later Development" points out the importance of self-concept in the development of a competent, healthy adult. (Author/SB)