This paper discusses the stresses our society places on parents, the influence of fathers on their children's development, how parents can actively influence development, individual differences in temperament among children, and environmental as well as ecological factors that affect the development of children. Concluding remarks focus on the responsibility of parents to be advocates for children. In particular, it is recommended that parents enter the public arena and lobby for policies and practices that are in the interest of children in their neighborhoods and communities. (Author/RH)