This paper addresses the rights of children, families, and society regarding the care and education of young children. The paper addresses two basic questions concerning what is meant by the word "right." The first question is, "What is right for young children and families in order to ensure optimal development?" The response…

Discusses some of the issues surrounding the chronic underfunding of early care and education, and examines some of the possible reasons for our national undercommitment to young children. Stresses the need for a clear vision of an early care and education system, with concrete data on what it would cost and how funds should be generated and…

Points out that many early childhood educators are happy about current government attention to child advocacy, but are at the same time confused about the reasons why early childhood education has suddenly been singled out as important. (SKC)

Focusing on the United States as a case study, explores the nature of responsibility for children and families in America; attitudes toward responsibility for children and families; issues to be considered when shaping responsibility for children and families; and possible change if strategies for improving services to children and families are…