This paper examines recent empirical evidence and policy analyses of family-oriented research projects funded by ACYF in order to identify general principles for public policies affecting families with young children. An initial definition of the policy problem focuses on the relationship between families as private systems that enhance human development and bureaucratic structures intended to maintain public good. Two levels of policy implications are identified: policy principles or goals and program options or choices for implementing principles. A review of the Administration for Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF) funded research projects on child welfare programs, child abuse and neglect services, day care regulation, child development programs, and youth development services provides a major source of empirical information for the policy principles and options listed. These policy principles and options are categorized under (1) preschool child care (care of preschool children by adults other than the children's primary caregiver), (2) family participation (aspects of parent or sibling involvement in policies and programs aimed at strengthening their child rearing capacities), (3) work place issues (allocation of adult's time between child caring and market-place activities), and (4) delivery mechanisms (strategies for implementing federal policies affecting family life and child development). (CM)