Karen L. Mapp--former Deputy Superintendent for Family and Community Engagement for Boston's schools and noted researcher and author on how schools can partner with families--talks with "EL" editor Naomi Thiers on the need to approach engaging family caregivers in students' learning in a new way, starting with emphasizing active…

This final article in a theme issue on socialization of the young child draws conclusions from the preceding ten articles and suggests some directions that educators may pursue to socialize young children in today's environment and to prepare them for the future. (Editor/SJL)

Chronically ill children and their families are a neglected group in American society. This article identifies several chronic illnesses and their commonalities, offers an overview of selected school problems, and lists principles for public response. (DF)

Discusses the importance of, and issues associated with, developing strong partnerships with the families that early childhood programs serve. Describes resources that recognize the centrality of the relationship between professionals and families and that offer advice on building quality programs that reflect this relationship. (TJQ)

Discusses the ways in which families and children with developmental disabilities can attain "full citizenship" with a creed of positive contribution, great expectations, friendships, choices, and strengths. (BB)

Three papers from the 1980 American Educational Research Association Conference, with an introduction and afterword, examine the evidence, possibilities, and problems for parental involvement in curriculum decision-making. The introduction, by Ralph Tyler, places parental involvement in education in its historical context, summarizes the three…

Examines the roots of drug/substance abuse and the long-term positive social consequences of good programs for young children, as well as the components of a model drug abuse prevention program that easily can be incorporated into any Head Start, child care, or other early childhood program. (BB)

These proceedings consist of: a brief opening address by Ms. Val Emerson, Director of the Virginia Division for Children and Youth; a keynote address, "Perspectives on the Family," by Dr. Earl S. Schaefer of the University of North Carolina; and a dialogue on "Programs and Practices for Professionals Working With Parents" by Dr. Ann O'Keefe,…

Discusses the state of education, social problems, and child welfare. Urges teachers to press government representatives to better the lives of children in the United States by allotting more funds for education, health care, and the fight against poverty. Argues that children need teachers who have faith and confidence in their students. (DK)

Presents the official position of the National Association for the Education of Young Children on the role of early childhood programs in preventing child abuse. Outlines recommendations on early childhood program policies; staff screening, recruitment, and retention policies; and policies to promote close partnerships with families. Offers…

Although multiple perspectives of democracy are reflected among the diverse people that make up the United States, two crucial elements of democracy are the creation of a public space for a continuous conversation promoting freedom of expression and tolerance, and the importance of compassion. Yet, one of the most basic conflicts in any system, be…

Reports on the development of a comprehensive education program "Step by Step: A Program for Children and Families" in Eastern and Central Europe and the former Soviet Union. Designed for young children from birth to age eight and their families, this program attempts to share U.S. teaching methods that promote democratic principles…

Argues that early childhood educators must create partnerships between parents and teachers to facilitate parents' interest and support of their children's education, the most important determinant of success in school. Notes that successful partnerships begin with mutual respect, communication, understanding, cooperation, and provision of varied…