On behalf of Children, all decisions:

1. Enhance the opportunity for all children to be free of the effects of inherited and acquired disease or disability.

2. Emphasize the prevention of developmental problems.

3. Recognize the need for the early detection and treatment or correction of developmental disorders.

4. Facilitate the provision of health, educational, and social opportunities for all children, so they may gain the knowledge and skills they need to become competent, caring, and contributing adults.

5. Assure that the developmental progress of all children is frequently and appropriately monitored, and information about it is shared with parents.

On behalf of children’s families, all decisions:

1. Recognize that preparation for parenthood and support for parents are critical factors in the successful development of children.

2. Assure that each family has access to resources sufficient to meet the child’s health, learning, social, and emotional needs.

3. Enhance each parent's access to information so they may make appropriate decisions on behalf of their children.

4. Facilitate communication in the family’s language and within their cultural context.

5. Ensure all services and supports are flexible and individualized; directed by individual family strengths, needs, and choices; and responsive to the changing needs of the children and families.

6. Assure that families are involved in the design and modification of systems and programs for developmental services, especially as these relate to their children.

On behalf of communities serving children and families, all decisions:

1. Ensure that all community agencies, organizations, and individuals providing direct developmental services or support services demonstrate the collaboration that is essential for efficiency and effectiveness.

2. Assure that all needed developmental supports and resources are appropriate, accessible, available, affordable, and accountable.

3. Support opportunities for all Iowans to become more aware of the developmental needs of children and their families, and of the resources necessary to meet those needs.

For more information about the guiding principles, please contact the ABCD II project coordinator.