This booklet discusses the opportunities and challenges for improving the educational opportunities of young children in the developing world in light of recent political and economic changes, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), the World Conference on Education for All (1990), and the World Summit for Children (1990). After defining child development, child care, and early childhood development programs, the importance of learning in the early years is examined. Young children learn by constructing knowledge, social interaction, exploration, inquiry, and play. Effective programming approaches must: (1) educate caregivers (2) promote community development; (3) deliver a service; (4) strengthen national resources and capabilities; (5) strengthen demand and awareness; (6) develop national child care and family policies; and (7) develop supportive legal and regulatory frameworks. The health, social, emotional, and educational benefits of early childhood development programs are also examined. The booklet ends with a call to action to proceed toward an enlightened program of child survival and development. (MDM)