This guidebook for Hispanic parents advises that children's success in school may depend on the home environment during the formative years. Hispanic youth drop out of school at a rate of 40 percent; 25 percent of those who graduate are not qualified for good jobs. In Latin American countries, parents are expected to leave education to the teacher. Given the situation here, however, parents are enjoined not only to care for their children's health, but also to prepare them for school by conversing with them as much as possible, teaching them the numbers and the letters of the alphabet, and fostering an appreciation for books. When children have begun school, parents are invited to confer often with teachers and counselors, volunteer if possible, and join parent organizations. (DM)