Education for parenthood is seen as an urgent priority in this paper, which presents a rationale and methods for implementation. National symptoms relating to family problems, teenage parents, mental health, crime, venereal disease, and child abuse are described, and existing preventive efforts in many areas are discussed. Problems facing educators in implementing programs are considered, but powerful sources of assistance are delineated and procedures for initiating and developing education for parenthood programs are described. Concepts and content for a coordinated parenting curriculum are suggested, depending on the readiness of diverse communities. The role of the school social worker as advocate of a healthy balance between cognitive and affective education is also set forth, and the importance of this role is stressed. (Author)