This report is intended to serve as a handbook for persons concerned about analyzing the statewide need for new or additional services to young children and their families, and for those interested in developing a data base on which to base decisions. The first part of the report, an update of a report originally published in 1973, outlines the basic information a state should consider as it gathers the data necessary to plan for child development programs. The report is not intended to provide simple answers to complex questions, but rather to indicate alternatives and discuss their implications. Underlying the report is the assumption that to have impact, a needs assessment must be conducted with awareness of the political situation of the state. The second part of the report includes in-depth studies of needs assessment models used in Idaho, North Carolina and Texas, along with detailed tables and appendices. (MS)