In the twenty-first century, no single racial or ethnic group will constitute a majority of young people in an increasing number of states and communities in the United States, and, therefore, children need to be prepared to share a society of diverse students, neighbors, and co-workers. This book addresses some of the issues involved in making democracy work for the next generation of children, called the children of 2010, and explores population trends, the need to respect cultural and individual differences, problems confronting children and youth, best practices for programs, and action strategies for seeking needed change. The book is based on three dialogue sessions sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children conducted among national leaders. The sections of the book are: (1) "Democracy for a New Century"; (2) "The Knowledge Base: Demographics"; (3) "The Knowledge Base: Diversity, Change, and Opportunity"; (4) "Best Practices: Principles, Volunteerism, and the News Media"; (5) "Best Practices: Movements to Change Society"; (6) "Visions of 2010 and How to Get There"; and (7) "Letter to the Children of 2010." Each section is organized into four parts reflecting the dialogue process: focusing on a theme; exploring information; reflecting on learning; and dialoguing to expand the ideas. The book concludes with questions regarding the changes in personal lives, professions and workplaces, communities, values, the socioeconomic system, and commitment to activism to make full participation in democracy accessible to all children of 2010. Contains approximately 50 references. (KB)