These guidelines were written to help families coordinate the health care that may be needed by a child with spina bifida. The booklet begins with general information about spina bifida. It then discusses the goals of health care, the health care team, the importance of periodic health care, and record keeping procedures. The child's health care needs, development, and educational needs are then examined by age, from birth to age 21. Family support and services are described, including advocacy, human services, schools, family support groups and networks, respite care, transportation, recreation, travel, and siblings. The booklet concludes with a glossary, a list of organizational (primarily in Minnesota) and printed resources for children with spina bifida, and a list of more general resources for children with special health care needs. (JDD)