This document presents quantitative data on Canadian children from birth through 14 years of age. The information is drawn from readily available federal government sources. The overview provided is not intended to be comprehensive and while many subjects are addressed, the amount of information varies for each topic. The variation does not relate to the importance of the issue but rather reflects the fact that certain policy issues are more easily quantified than others. An attempt has been made to use the most recent information available. Data on policy issues is presented from micro-economic and macro-economic perspectives. The micro-economic approach documents the effects of policy issues on family or individuals, while the macro-economic outlines the effects on government or society. Canada is not a homogeneous country. The situation of children varies by province, by urban/rural areas, and by the circumstances of the family. This diversity is documented in the information in a selective manner. Children are by definition dependent and rely on others for physical, economic, and social support. They lack the opportunity, experience, or resources to provide for themselves. Public policy related to children must therefore consider their vulnerability and the degree to which parents and society share the responsibility of providing for children. (RH)