This document addresses: (1) the lack of knowledge concerning the scope and nature of child abuse and neglect fatalities; (2) the need for better investigation and prosecution and for major efforts to improve and train front-line professionals; (3) the encouraging emergence of Child Death Review Teams; and (4) the need for more aggressive efforts to protect children and facilitate community-based family services and primary prevention efforts to help families live safe and healthy lives. The Board made 25 recommendations, including the following: (1) Establish a national commitment at the highest levels to understand the scope and nature of fatal child abuse and neglect; (2) Significantly increase Federal and State research efforts on the problem; (3) Increase the supply of professionals qualified to identify and investigate child abuse and neglect fatalities; (4) Create criminal investigation teams that include States, military branches, and Indian Nations; (5) Enact legislation in every State establishing child autopsy protocols; enact State statutes that define child abuse and neglect as felonies, not misdemeanors; (6) Establish Child Death Review Teams in every State, military branch, Indian Nation, and territory, with teams also at local or regional levels; (7) Enact model legislation to address confidentiality; (8) Provide an array of primary prevention services to all families; (9) Establish State and local prevention programs for men; and (10) Use family support services for prevention programs aimed at families with infants and toddlers. Figures, references