The conception and development of the Early Adolescent Helper Program is detailed in this article. The Early Adolescent Helper Program encourages growth through activities that meet the developmental needs of 10- to 15-year-olds. Volunteers or program leaders are trained to provide a structured after-school environment that is both positive and safe. Three "guides for teachers and program leaders" may be purchased to aid in the organization and implementation of an Early Adolescent Helper Program. These resources explain the "Child Care Helper Program," "Latchkey Helpers," and "The Partners Program."

The Dade County Juvenile Center in Florida was used as the example institution to determine what is currently being done in juvenile facilities in reference to AIDS. The facility holds 200 youth for an average of 14 days. Mandatory screening and testing was not done although testing was offered to high risk youth. In fact, only those showing symptoms were offered blood tests. However, the author discusses problems and topics affecting screening procedures such as housing, counseling, availability and other factors. The author concludes that not enough is being done despite the ideal situation for testing, screening and education.

Author describes a joint effort of the Kansas Action for Children, Inc. and the Kansas Department of Social Rehabilitative Services to prevent unnecessary out-of-home child placement. This program is being conducted in 35 countries in the State. Methodology is described and the importance of networking is emphasized. Programs to obtain community support were designed and contacts made with over 2000 people in community meetings, a state wide conference, ect.

Project WIN was created in Boston to provide appropriate, coummunity-based services for intravenous (IV) drug using families and their children who are at risk for, or diagnosed with AIDS, AIDS Related Complex (ARC) or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The project uses a transagency service delivery approach which is coordinated by a board composed of representatives from 31 organizations. Children under the age of six whose parents are involved in or have completed treatment programs for IV drug using families are typically labor-intenseve clients. This approach has resulted in more coordinated, cost effective, and efficient referral and intervention process.

Natural good health during adolescence is a myth says this North Carolina author. In the 1980's youth are experiencing a number of problems which carry a high mortality rate such as suicide, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, accidents, and violent behavior. Teen Link was developed in Durham, North Carolina to combat these problems. The author describes implementation and networking for the program. Program evaluation and participant motivation is also discussed.

This article examines the answer to the question of why youths resort to violence. This is handled by looking at some of the underlying causes of violence, examining approaches to solving them, and a look at some specific programs that offer hope. In conclusion, the article recommends a need for general and social service exchange program opportunities in order to claim and value teenagers.

This article raises the question of whether the well-intentioned external control of adults can diminish children's capacity for self control both now and in the future. Brown contends that children need to be motivated to manage their own lives in order to be self reliant individuals. Components of self reliance are dealt with using such important words as awareness, independent thinking, social independence, self worth, self efficacy, environment, self discipline, values and standards. Finally, the three methods used to make children more effective are examined, i.e., behavioral patterning, expectation, and modeling.

This article examines different caregivers and various methods they can employ to help children of alcoholics. Three broad areas are identified: 1) the schools and the role played by teachers; 2) youth agencies and associations which includes correctional halfway houses for runaways and youth with substance abuse problems, recreational associations in churches and communities; and 3) treatment settings which includes hospitals, private and public agencies. Caregivers in each of these categories range from teachers to social workers, youth workers, physicians, nurses, psychologists and alcoholism counselors.

The accomplishments of the Head Start program, now in its 20th year, are highlighted, based on findings of recent research studies. These studies are confirming that this program has stimulated learning experiences, parent involvement, and the provision of health, nutritional, and social services to promote the intellectual, physical, and emotional well-being of children in low-income families. The program's contribution to children's school performance may actually be less important than its accomplishments in involving parents in local Head Start programs. Currently, Head Start reaches about 20% of all preschool children living in poverty. Illustrations of Head Start children and their parents are included. (wz)