This collection of short articles focuses on various dimensions of childhood ecology. Section I introduces a conceptual framework for the study of childhood ecology and poses 4 methodological principles for human development specialists. Four ecological subsystems are identified and discussed briefly. Section II discusses the family microsystem in terms of the growth of optimal mother-infant interaction and home/child relationships and intellectual development. Section III looks at neighborhood mesosystems in terms of classroom environments and day care versus home care. Section IV examines community exosystems in terms of: television as seen through the eyes of the family; an ecological approach to prevention of school failure by a community mental health center; and the effects of population density and noise pollution on child development. Section V explores the national sociocultural macrosystem in terms of developmental research, public policy and the ecology of childhood, and the ecology of child development. References and suggested readings on the topics discussed are listed. (RH)