This report on child care and the Federal government's role in child care is based on the National Networking Conference on the Absent Parent which was held May 9-10, 1988 under the sponsorship of the President's Intergovernmental Advisory Council on Education (IACE). The report begins with 12 recommendations concerning day care and latchkey programs, and continues with a summary of the dialogues. The emphasis throughout the dialogues was on the responsibility and control parents have in the education and upbringing of their children. The keynote speaker, United States Congressman, Thomas J. Tauke, set the theme for the conference by asking the participants and attendees to ponder the options available for care for latchkey children. Topics discussed by other speakers included corporate contributions to the needs of the absent parent, private and community resources available for child care, and perspectives on current child care programs. The report also includes letters from President Reagan and Secretary of Education William J. Bennett, the conference agenda, a list of IACE members, biographies of the speakers and panelists, and a list of conference participants. (RJC)