The study estimated the unduplicated count of the homeless children and youths by conducting a survey in 40 large urban counties. The method yielded a nationally representative estimate of the number of children in shelters and hotels or motels in urban counties on October 24, 1988. The study estimated the number of children and youths in other settings by adjusting the county estimates derived from expert opinions. To check on the likely accuracy of estimates, the study compared results, where possible, with the results of other published and unpublished studies, and case studies were conducted in three cities. On a given night, approximately 68,000 children and youths aged 16 and younger may be members of families that are literally homeless. Of these children and youths, approximately 25,500 are likely to be in urban shelters and hotels; approximately 21,800 are likely to be in suburban and rural areas; approximately 4,000 are housed by churches; approximately 9,000 may be sleeping in abandoned buildings, cars, or public places; and approximately 7,700 may be in various other settings. Approximately 186,000 children and youths may be precariously housed, spending the night in doubled-up ("shared housing") circumstances. Estimates do not include homeless children and youths. Tabular data, 16 footnotes.