In June, 1999, the U.S. Departments of Justice and of Health and Human Services convened the National Summit on Children Exposed to Violence, bringing together experts to develop a framework for understanding and addressing children's exposure to violence. This Summary describes that framework, presenting an action plan that outlines principles for preventing and reducing the negative impact of such exposure on children. Following an introduction, Part 1 of the report discusses the potential impact of violence exposure on children. Part 2 presents a framework for understanding and addressing children's exposure to violence, including committing to common goals; understanding the challenges involved; knowing the facts surrounding the problem; addressing prevention, intervention, and accountability; and working across disciplines. Part 3 details eight operating principles to organize and stimulate efforts to address children's exposure to violence: (1) work together; (2) begin earlier; (3) think developmentally; (4) make mothers safe to keep children safe; (5) enforce the law; (6) make adequate resources available; (7) work from a sound knowledge base; and (8) create a culture of nonviolence. Within this section for each operating principle, specific strategies are suggested, programs are described, and additional resources are listed. The report concludes that taking the steps in the proposed action plan will bring significant progress to reducing the impact of violence exposure on children. Contains 51 endnotes. (KB)