This paper discusses the meaning of environmental deprivation, specifically the effects of racial, ethnic, and cultural differences on education. Objectives are also given for a Head Start and Follow Through program. A child is environmentally deprived to the extent that he has not developed his intellectual ability and a positive self-image. Environmental deprivation is often caused by a limited quantity and poor quality of interaction between a child and adults, particularly his parents. The quality and the amount of interaction are reduced by conditions prevalent in poor homes: (1) parents' low educational achievement, (2) absence of the father in the home, (3) a large family, (4) a crowded home, (5) a high rate of physical and mental illness, and (6) a parental attitude of psychological defeat. All of these factors contribute to limited intellectual development and a negative self-concept. Because schools are oriented to the white middle class, they fail to respond to the life style, values, and culture of minority group children. Head Start and Follow Through should respond to minority groups and focus on developing sensory and perceptual acuity, concept formation and problem solving ability, and language competence. Home involvement is also needed. Programs should respond to the child's needs and involve the family in a meaningful way. (DR)