Using 2000 U.S. Census data, this report compares the situation of children in American Samoa to children's situations in neighboring territories and the nation overall. Between 1999-2000, the number of children in American Samoa increased 24 percent, while the increase was only 14 percent nationwide during the past decade. In 2000, 45 percent of American Samoans were under age 18 years, compared with 26 percent of the U.S. population. While the national economy grew at a record pace in the 1990s, economic conditions for American Samoan children and families deteriorated. In 2000, women were the heads of household in 1 in 10 American Samoan families with children (substantially below the national average). Between 1990-2000, the percentage of 16-19-year-old American Samoan high school dropouts decreased from 21 to 17 percent (compared to 10 percent nationwide). Between 1990-2000, the number of children increased most rapidly in the western half of Tutuila Island. Poverty levels were high in all parts of the territory, with the highest rates on the Manu'a Islands. Sua County had the lowest high school dropout rate. Three appendices present Census 2000 questionnaire information, data for the total population and for children, and selected percentages for children in American Samoa. (Contains 13 references.) (SM)