The lack of U.S. students' knowledge of history and geography has been portrayed on television and in the newspapers as a national problem. California's public schools are taking significant steps to ensure that all students have a well developed understanding of their society and the world. This guide for parents answers some of the most commonly asked questions about the 1987 California History-Social Science Framework (for K-12) and suggests concrete ways in which parents can help their children succeed in school. A literature list for parents and children (K-12) is included. (DB)