This report presents the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the National Commission on Children. The report is prefaced by a statement by the commission chairman, Senator John D. Rockefeller, and an executive summary. The first part of the report discusses issues relating to the development of a national policy on children and families. Chapters in this part concern: the high cost of failure to provide for the needs of America's children; the changing American family; child development; and principles for taking action on behalf of children. The second part proposes an agenda for the 1990s. Chapters in this part concern: ensuring income security; improving children's health; increasing educational achievement; supporting the transition to adulthood; strengthening and supporting families; protecting vulnerable children and their families; making policies and programs work; and creating a moral climate for children. The third part discusses the process of building the necessary commitment for the future of America's children. A series of appendixes presents background tables on the effects of income security policies, projections of program costs, views of interested individuals, and additional related materials. (BC)