This book is the result of a nationwide collaborative effort in Canada to draft national goals on healthy child and youth development. Following a brief introduction, the book is divided into three main sections. Section one examines how children develop in the following four chapters: (1) "The Mind Matters: A Child's Developing Brain"; (2) "No Time To Waste: Early Experiences Are Key"; (3) "Bouncing Back: Children's Resilience"; and (4) "More Reasons To Invest in Children: Child Development and a Changing World." Section two examines what makes a difference to children's development in the following five chapters: (5) "What All Children Need: Four Determinants of Optimal Child Development"; (6) "Childhood Should Be Protected: The First Determinant of Optimal Child Development"; (7) "Relationships are Key: The Second Determinant of Optimal Child Development"; (8) "Opportunity and Hope: The Third Determinant of Optimal Child Development"; and (9) "Community Is Us: The Fourth Determinant of Optimal Child Development." Section three examines how society can make a difference in the following two chapters: (10) "Communities in Action"; and (11) "Finding Solutions and Taking Action." The book's six appendices highlight new research, assessment, relevant Canadian organizations, health goals, criteria for research, and contributors. (SD)