Stating the beliefs, principles, goals, and dimensions of the Early Childhood Services (ECS) program, this document provides basic direction for parents, program staff, and community services in developing, implementing, and evaluating programs responsive to the developmental and special needs of young children and their families. ECS is a coordinated delivery system of local, regional, and provincial programs especially focusing on preschool children and their families, and including government departments responsible for health, social, educational, and recreational services. Intended for use by parents, staff, and community service workers, most of the material in this document centers on ECS program dimensions. Based on the philosophy and goals described in sections 1 and 2, the following dimensions are identified: physical development, (including health and physical skills), social development, emotional development, self-concept, intellectual and creative development, parent involvement, staff development, and community services. The dimensions are expanded in terms of objectives for parents, staff, community services, and young children. The basic components of ECS programs, as well as guidelines for the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs and the identification of staff development needs, are discussed in terms of these identified program dimensions. (RH)