A Child Quality of Life Index (CQLI) should be developed in order to realize three objectives: (1) to raise the consciousness of decision makers, prospective donors, field workers, and community members concerning the needs of children; (2) to assist field workers and community members in planning specific programs to meet the priority needs of local children; and (3) to promote enhanced coordination and communication among organizations working to address the needs of children, their families, and communities. Available options for formulating a CQLI include a modified physical quality of life index, normative and non-normative micro-assessment tools, and a combination of micro and global approaches. Concerning (1) sub-scales for age groups, (2) multiple indicators in a small number of sectors, (3) selection of measures, (4) equity considerations in developing countries, (5) practicality, (6) selection of indicators most amenable to intervention strategies, (7) identification of factors exerting the greatest influence on the status of children, and (8) formulation of working hypotheses providing a conceptual framework for the CQLI, eight general principles should govern the technical construction of the CQLI. Technical development could occur in three phases: delineation, testing and validation, and application of procedures. (In conclusion, illustrations of specific dimensions and indicators that should be considered for inclusion in a CQLI are offered, and an example of how subdimensions might be weighted is provided.) (RH)