Stress in relationship to preschool children, day care environments, and the parents of children in day care is examined in this conference paper. Some events that may cause stress in individuals and the defense mechanisms associated with stressful experiences are indicated. Guidelines are provided for identifying children under stress and for examining day care environments for stressful conditions. Additionally, aspects of the caregiver's role in minimizing stress in children are listed. Clues indicating stress on parents are identified, and a list of parents' needs is provided. Stress affecting caregivers, providers, and decision-makers in day care settings is discussed, and advice for coping with stressful situations is offered. Throughout the discussion, reference is made to the book "Day Care, Families and Stress" and to five associated training modules developed by the Texas Department of Human Resources. (Author/RH)