This document is an integrated statement about early childhood education (ECE) services by the Early Childhood Committee of the Kentucky Department of Education. The document provides indicators of effective programs; reviews service delivery systems; supports program planning; encourages the adaptation of existing models; and promotes the formation of interagency partnerships. The beliefs and assumptions about child development held by the Early Childhood Committee are listed. Among other considerations, the design of an ECE program should: (1) incorporate components identified by research as present in high-quality programs; and (2) provide for evaluation through indicators of program quality. The implementation of an ECE program must consider the need for: (1) comprehensive services; (2) a variety of service delivery models; (3) appropriate curriculum; and (4) ongoing staff development. Appendixes include: (1) a checklist of indicators of program quality; (2) lists, for the State of Kentucky, of Head Start programs, supervisors of parent and child education programs, school-age child care programs, members of preschool interagency planning councils, and early childhood training centers; (3) descriptions of learning centers, and educational equipment and materials; and (4) a list of professional educational organizations. A 12-item bibliography is included. (BC)