Research conducted on youth exposure to violence has generally focused on documenting the prevalence of community violence and its emotional and behavioral implications. However, there is a dearth of information related to the impact of violence on the implementation and evaluation of community and school-based programs. This commentary examines…

Recent evidence has emerged that in Britain, like the United States, many children below minimum school-leaving age are working. Often, the work is illegal. Research in the United States suggests that many risk accidents and other hazards to health. Evidence from Britain is of a more fragmentary nature, but enough exists to suggest a need for…

The National Playground Safety Institute believes it is essential to develop and administer a national voluntary certification program for playground safety inspectors. Certified individuals would routinely receive new information and instruction in new procedures. The paper discusses who should receive such certification and how they would be…

This paper describes the evolution of playground safety, discussing the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) "Handbook for Public Playground Safety" and examining the direction in which CPSC guidelines are moving. The paper notes the importance of certification of playground equipment, reviews pertinent questions to address, and…

Argues a violent society adversely affects the development of young children, and caregivers must play a healing role in caring for children. Examines how violence affects children's sense of self, a child's relationships with others, and a child's world view. Supports building worthwhile relationships with parents and providing a safe haven. (SD)

This paper discusses eight precepts that parents, educators, and society as a whole should follow to ensure that children in the United States enjoy a safe and secure environment. These proactive principles declare that: (1) every baby born in our country has the right to adequate health care; (2) guns, knives, and other potential weapons must not…

The Canadian Child Day Care Federation's National Statement on Quality Child Care suggests separate principles of quality care for center-based and family-based child care. The principles of quality center-based care are divided into seven areas, each with a statement of general philosophy. The philosophical principles are then defined in more…

Presents five articles on health and safety of caregivers: (1) "Taking Care of Caregivers: Wellness for Every Body" (Aronson); (2) "Caregiver Mental Health" (Aronson); (3) "Show and Tell: Modeling Healthy Behaviors and Attitudes" (Rafanello); (4) "Preventing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries" (Wortman);…

This report covers the risks to health, safety, and emotional well-being for infants and toddlers in child care settings, and examines opportunities for diminishing those risks and promoting healthy development. Part 1 examines the risks of poor caregiving practices, including the spread of infectious disease, the incidence of injury, and the…