This monograph reports the key findings of the Foundation for Child Development's 1989 Forum on Children and the Family Support Act, a forum convened to examine the potential effects of the Family Support Act (FSA) on children. The following topics were addressed: (1) population and characteristics of children who will be affected by the FSA; (2) effects of mothers' transition to work on parenting and family functioning; (3) care arrangements for children and their implications for child development; (4) transitional and longer-term health care coverage for children; and (5) economic and parenting roles of fathers. Participants were an interdisciplinary group of researchers, public officials, program administrators, and representatives of foundations and national organizations. Analysis identified major lessons from available research that should guide both the implementation of state and local FSA programs and the development of related program and policy initiatives. It also specified important questions that should be answered in future efforts to monitor programs and study their effects on children and families. Supplemented by relevant research, Part I presents the key findings related to program planning and implementation. Part II outlines program monitoring and research questions and the types of studies needed for adequate understanding of the effects of the Act. A synopsis of the Family Support Act is appended. (RH)