The health care system has only recently established protocols and training to enable practitioners to identify and respond to victims of domestic assault. Most hospitals currently have domestic violence protocols in place, although training in the use of protocols is less routine. However, the well-being of the children of abused adults has received little attention in adult health care settings, because the provision of health care focuses on the treatment of the individual. In addition, pediatricians do not routinely receive training in identifying adult domestic violence and do not regard responding to battered mothers as within the purview of their practices. Nevertheless, innovative programs in children's hospitals in Boston and San Diego, Calif., recognize that children's safety is integrally tied to the safety of their mothers. These programs identify abused children whose mothers are the victims of domestic violence and provide advocacy and support that allow mothers and children to remain together in most instances. Opportunities for screening also exist in the settings where adolescents receive health care. Prenatal visits provide regular opportunities for domestic violence screening as well. Integrating the health care needs of mothers and children from violent households will require continued and expanded training, collaboration with community institutions, and improvements in insurance reimbursements to cover the costs of needed services. Photographs and 42 reference notes (Author abstract modified)