The TADPOLE (Tech Assessment and Development for the Preparation of Optimal Learning Environments) Research Project assessed areas of parental competence in setting up home learning environments for children from birth to three years of age. Six half-hour videotapes were made of each of 30 families in their homes. Two instruments, Parent "Q" and TADPOLE Observation Scale, were used by the investigators to compare parents' knowledge of child development with parents' interactions with their children. The comparison was made to determine significant parental competencies in providing optimal learning environments for normal and developmentally delayed children. (Author)