This handbook for educators, administrators, and community leaders shows how innovative and outstanding programs can demonstrate by example. It offers helpful guidelines and models, raises and comments upon present and future issues, and suggests valuable resources. Chapter 1 defines family life education by discussing its importance and addressing areas in which confusion over family life education exists. Chapter 2 comments on external and internal factors that contribute to family well-being. Chapter 3 profiles family life education practices at the local and state/territorial levels. Chapter 4 provides a comprehensive analysis of 14 "innovative and outstanding" family life education programs. The common components that have contributed to their achievements are divided into two categories: community relations and educational particulars. The analysis is interspersed with information from state guidelines and commentaries on ways to improve programs using these components. Chapter 5 addresses three needs: community acceptance, continuing education for educators, and evaluation of the impact on students. Chapter 6 deals with three emerging areas of essential importance for the future: curriculum, computer technology, and values education. Appendixes include extensive listings of reference books and articles, textbooks and curriculum materials, teacher guides and books, audiovisual resource material, and resource organizations. (YLB)