This annual report for 2001 describes the year's activities, achievements, and financial status of the Bernard van Leer Foundation, a private foundation based in The Netherlands operating internationally to improve opportunities for young children from birth to age 7 living in circumstances of social and economic disadvantage. Following the introduction by the chair of the board of trustees and a report from the executive director, the annual report describes the foundation's dissemination activities; reviews its interests in 2001; describes events, achievements, and awards; lists countries in which the foundation made earmarkings in 1999-2001; provides the 2001 financial report; and details the major grants approved by the foundation during 2001. The report concludes with a description of the foundation, its mandate, a description of the types of grants awarded, and a list of trustees and staff. (KB)