Noting that the physical and mental growth of children are influenced by many environmental and familial factors, this paper explores improving the well being of children. The first part of the paper discusses child rearing, emphasizing three fundamental themes: creating an environment where children are born healthy and wanted; helping children to develop empathy and identification with thoughts and feelings of others; and increasing one's commitment to public interest. This section claims that when parents can watch their children's growing independence with affection and pride, and when these children can leave parents and become autonomous citizens capable of new relationships, then it is a step forward to a just society. The second part of the paper introduces a book, scheduled to be published in late summer 1996, which examines programs that have demonstrated effectiveness in developing more competent and empathic children, adolescents, and adults. This section goes into detail describing the five major sections of the book, emphasizing a few successful prevention programs and strategies. The paper concludes with an essay written by a third grader on the topic of social support. (MOK)