Drawing on the writings of scholars in the field, this report presents the case for increased parental control over the education of children. It begins by maintaining that the American public school has fallen from favor mainly because of a decline in academic achievement and the replacement of the teaching of basic skills with social…

Introduces this special issue focusing exclusively on care for children by family relations separate from their parents (kinship care). Addresses kinship care issues of policy, practice, caregiver support and advocacy, and research. Contains general definitions, program history and development, and descriptions of the care issues explored in the…

Presents six myths about early childhood education and care. Myths concern day care quality, the impact of day care on families and communities, academically oriented curricula, the importance of caregiver training, and parent involvement. Emphasizes that professionals need to dispel these myths, recognize the complexity of good child care, and be…

All over America, young adolescents' experiences of growing up have changed dramatically in the past two decades. Family life for adolescents has changed, adolescents face greater risks to their health, and greater risks of being poorly educated for the next century. Families, schools, and community organizations, the three pivotal institutions…

A careful analysis by Zelnik and Kanter of the Department of Population Dynamics at Johns Hopkins disclosed that abortions, unwed teenage pregnancies, venereal diseases, and sexual promiscuity have all increased dramatically in spite of a massive public and private program of contraceptive indoctrination and dissemination. This increase is…

The 11 papers assembled in this volume reflect the readiness of professional social work to develop practice approaches for working with parents of children in foster care. The papers were written from different perspectives, emphasize diverse aspects of foster care, and disagree on many issues. A unifying theme exists, however, in the shared…

The Counselor to the U.S. Secretary of Education outlines eight education challenges: (1) safe and disciplined schools; (2) parent and family involvement; (3) a reading, literate society; (4) high standards and real accountability; (5) computers available to all children; (6) strong transition from school to work; (7) college accessibility; and…

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…

Discusses the teaching of children's rights in the Philippines. Suggests that the provisions of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child remain ineffective if not disseminated in companion programs. Argues that no rights exist without obligations. Describes nongovernmental organization, broadcast media, and government programs. (DK)

Argues that white, upper-middle-class adolescents are particularly vulnerable to depression, suicide, alcohol/substance abuse, date rape, anxiety, low self-esteem, and eating disorders. Discusses lack of parental involvement and the difficulties wealthy youth have in developing inner resources. Recommends involving students in service projects and…

The theme issue of this bulletin is a discussion of youth with emotional disturbances who are in the juvenile justice system and how to meet their needs. Articles include: (1) "Responding to the Mental Health Needs of Youth in the Juvenile Justice System" (Susan Rotenberg); (2) "Prevalence of Mental Disorders among Youth in the…

This paper examines the legal mandates as well as the definitions and indicators for a family-centered early childhood system of care for children with special needs. Legislation discussed includes the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant (Title V of the Social Security Act). Various definitions…

This report of a consensus conference on pediatric rheumatology deals with the complex nature of rheumatological conditions of children, which require diagnostic, therapeutic, and follow-up services for comprehensive care and demand the cooperation of medical, health, education, mental health, and social service professionals. Conference…

This report of the Oregon Special Education Technology Task Force presents recommendations reflecting both the demands expected early in the coming century for students with disabilities and corresponding advances in technology. It encompasses four broad areas: administration; professional development; children, youth, and their families; and…

This paper discusses some misconceptions about Asian American elementary school and secondary school students, and describes ways of building effective communication with the families of these students. The essay begins by noting the stereotyping of Asian American students as "whiz kids" and discussing the damaging effect of that…