Inadequate preparation for parenting during the prenatal period, and the inability to provide adequate parenting have been cited as major reasons for a myriad of problems experienced by parents. This study examined support and education programs based on the aggregate 7-year experience of over 75 support and education programs funded by the Michigan Children's Trust Fund. This agency provided funding for a variety of local and statewide child abuse and neglect prevention efforts. The programs fell into the following three categories: neighborhood-based family resource centers; pregnancy/newborn programs; and parenting skills training and support groups. The focus of this investigation was on a number of the conceptual issues relating to the design, implementation, and evaluation of support and education programs. The following guidelines have been suggested for effective support and education programs which extend from a prevention framework. Programs should: (1) utilize an ecological approach to promoting human development; (2) be community-based and sensitive to local needs and resources; (3) provide social support services in three domains: information, emotional and appraisal support, and instrumental assistance; (4) emphasize primary and secondary prevention of various child and family dysfunctions; (5) develop innovative and multilateral approaches to service delivery; (6) underscore the interdependent relationship between family and community while reinforcing and respecting the family's role and prerogatives; and (7) emphasize the promotion of competence or "person-environment fit." (LLL)