A significant portion of Even Start's efforts are directed toward helping families support their young children's education. The quality of the home environment contributes to children's success in school. To improve the quality of this environment, Even Start concentrates on five major aspects of family life which can affect children's school performance: (1) parents' understanding of child development and children's abilities; (2) parent teaching strategies; (3) the extent to which the home is developed as an early literacy environment; (4) parental control and methods of discipline; and (5) family dynamics. Stress, the amount of familial support, early family experiences, child characteristics, and stage of parenthood all contribute to parenting styles and effects on children. Even Start efforts must begin where parents are, encourage parent discussion, use multiple interventions, and maintain a balanced focus. To accomplish program goals, managers of Even Start programs need to develop experiences appropriate to the clients, include children, and respect and learn from parents. (JW)