New digital technologies and the rapid growth of the Internet are restructuring communications systems and transforming education and the economy. Noting that many of the resulting telecommunications policies will be made at the state level, this publication provides guidelines for child advocates to influence state policy regarding children's use of telecommunications. Chapter 1, "Children in the Digital Age," discusses the influences and benefits of digital technology in children's daily lives, the need to develop skills to benefit from these technologies, the current inequality in children's access to computer technologies, and opportunities at the state level to ensure that all children have the same access to information and other educational services. Chapter 2, "Shaping Futures State by State," discusses regulating telecommunications at the state level, targeting the states' Public Utilities Commissions (PUC) for advocates' action, and examines initiatives involving an advanced network connecting public schools and libraries such as that in Maine. Chapter 3, "The Promise of Universal Service," discusses the basic elements of universal service, the requirements of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, and suggests a framework for a universal service agenda. Chapter 4, "Winning at the PUC," outlines the development of an effective campaign for influencing telecommunications policy at the PUC, including identifying key corporate players, enlisting allies, developing an agenda, marshaling research and documentation, developing an effective filing, lobbying the PUC, negotiating with corporations, and working with the press. Chapter 5, "Beyond the PUC," considers state legislatures and administrations as additional targets for advocates' efforts. Chapter 6, "Closing the Digital Divide," summarizes the need to close the growing gap between children with and without access to technology. The publication concludes with a list of useful organizations and print resources and acknowledgments. (KDFB)