Child Nurturing in the 1980s follows upon aseries of lectures presented at Michigan State University in conjunction with the uni­ versity's celebration of the International Year of the Child. The chapters, although far from an inc1usive set, outline childrearing perspectives, issues and concerns relevant to the 80s and beyond. The authors have used different styles ranging from empirical review to essay. The book is designed to provide those concerned with the nurturing of children in the United States with perceptions of what is and what could be. The initial chapter by Edward Zigler sets the stage for comments related to specific areas and modalities of child nurturing concerns for the decade. Some of the chapter authors are more futuristic than others in their perspective, but all have focused upon issues judged to be focal for those concerned with the nurturing of children in this culture during this period of our history • The book is not addressed specifically to those who would set policy or those who would implement it. Rather , it is hoped that it can be read with benefit by a wide range of individuals inc1uding but not limited to parents, faculty members, child care workers and child agency personnei. The editors wish to extend our appreciation to many individuals who made this effort possible. Funding of the IYC program was provided through the International Year of the Child Committee under the most able leadership of Andrew D. Hunt, M. D.