Crisis intervention type services were initiated in the Battered Women's Shelter in Fayetteville, Arkansas with the purpose of assisting children with their immediate distress and possibly preventing repetition of the violent patterns within families. Services were provided by volunteers or hired staff as funding allowed. The families the shelter typically served were from a rural, poor area. Services to children were provided on an individual and group basis, varying from a Big Brother/Big Sister recreational approach to a longer term, more intensive approach similar to traditional child psychotherapy. Group intervention was centered on a weekly children's discussion group, during which time feelings, fears, and fantasies were discussed. When appropriate, specialized groups were also conducted. Interventions with the mothers focused on improving parenting skills. Women were taught how to interact with their children in a more positive manner and how to discipline by setting consistent limits. Also presented to the mothers were the basic principles of child development. Although this intervention program was not formally evaluated, on an informal questionnaire most mothers reported an improved relationship with their children. Research needs to be conducted to facilitate implementation of effective intervention strategies for children living within violent families. (ABL)