The primary goal of the Children's Sabbaths and Children's Days is to inspire new long-term actions to help children and families. During the Children's Sabbath, religious services and programs focus on the needs of children and ways in which the religious community can help meet those needs. This booklet is designed to provide religious congregations with the resources they need to begin planning a special Children's Sabbath or Children's Day during the National Observance of Children's Sabbaths on October 18-20, 1996. The booklet contains the following sections: (1) "A Letter from Marian Wright Edelman," urging people to participate in Children's Day activities and requesting that groups participating also let the Children's Defense Fund know of their plans; (2) "Suggestions for Planning Your Children's Sabbath or Children's Day," including a sample news release and sample media coverage; (3) "Bulletin Inserts," including material that may be photocopied for newsletters; (4) "Resources for Religious Services," including an interfaith service, Spanish-language resources, suggestions for mosques, and prayers and reflections concerning children; (5) "Activity Ideas for All Ages," including activities to stimulate reflection and further action among religious congregations on behalf of children; (6) "Education Resources," including a list of suggested religious education materials for Muslim children and resources for Spanish-speaking children; (7) "Follow-up Suggestions and Resources," including activities for education, service, and child advocacy as well as lists of books, multi-faith materials, and organizations for child advocacy. (AA)