Investments in children during the early years of life are regarded as one of the most effective ways to promote children's learning. This book synthesizes the research base and state of practice of early childhood learning and answers such questions as: What programs are most effective, and who benefits most from them? What are the key components of effective programs and services? What are the implications of the knowledge base for program development, modification, and expansion? How can the best or most promising practices be disseminated and widely used, especially for children at risk? Part 1 of this volume covers the child's first five years, including Head Start, child care, and model programs. Part II covers kindergarten and early school-age years, including school readiness, grade retention, and extended interventions. Part III examines broader implications of the knowledge base for program development and policy formation. The articles are as follows: (1) "The Federal Commitment to Preschool Education: Lessons from and for Head Start" (Edward Zigler and Sally J. Styfco); (2) "Understanding Efficacy of Early Educational Programs: Critical Design, Practice, and Policy Issues" (Sharon Landsman Ramey and Craig T. Ramey); (3) "Universal Access to Prekindergarten: A Georgia Case Study" (Anthony Raden); (4) "Child Care Quality and Children's Success at School" (Deborah Lowe Vandell and Kim M. Pierce); (5) "Kindergarten in the 21st Century" (Elizabeth M. Graue); (6) "The Added Value of Continuing Early Intervention into the Primary Grades" (Arthur J. Reynolds); (7) "Grade Retention, Social Promotion, and 'Third Way' Alternatives" (Karl L. Alexander, Doris R. Entwisle, and Nader Kabbani); (8) "The Three Types of Early Childhood Programs in the United States" (Lawrence J. Schweinhart); (9) "The Science and Policies of Early Childhood Education and Family Services" (Robert B. McCall, Lana Larsen, and Angela Ingram); (10) "Lessons from Europe: European Preschools Revisited in a Global Age" (Sarane Spence Boocock); and (11) "Understanding the Promise of Universal Preschool" (Darcy A. Olson). An epilogue discusses common themes and next-step recommendations. Each article contains references. (HTH)