Unless the mandate for children advances in the public's consciousness, there will be little sustained progress on the children's front. Individuals and groups involved in children's issues are looking for new ways to draw people into the political process and to involve people in effective programs for children. The prime barrier to effective actions in support of children is failure of the imagination. What is clearly needed is positive modeling of ways in which parents and child advocates can become involved in children's lives. In addition, policymakers need to understand the emotional nature of family concerns. Children and families have a right to safe neighborhoods, health care, and education. They also need role models and mentors who care about them. Americans should move from awareness and concern to empathy and intervention, public institutions should work effectively in support of children, and media coverage should promote children's needs and interests.