This guide shows how the Race Relations Act of 1976 and the Children Act of 1989 apply to young children in the United Kingdom and to those who have responsibility for their care and education. The 1989 Children Act, a comprehensive piece of legislation that addresses religion, racial origin, and cultural and linguistic background, adds to the specific requirements of the Race Relations Act. The guide examines existing provisions and the extent to which they meet the needs of ethnic minority communities. It then highlights key areas where a commitment to racial equality policies and practices would benefit all children. It also discusses the issues of access to services, training, and employment. The guide concludes by suggesting ways in which policies might be developed to ensure that all aspects of early childhood services are founded on the principles of equality of opportunity. Differences between the English and Scottish systems of early childhood education are noted. The following chapters are included: (1) "Early Childhood Services and the 1976 Race Relations Act"; (2) "Early Childhood Services and the 1989 Children Act"; (3) "Early Childhood Services and Ethnic Minority Communities"; (4) "The Experiences of Young Children and Racial Equality"; (5) "Equal Access to Early Childhood Services"; (6) "Training, Education, and Qualifications for Work with Young Children"; (7) "Practical Policy Making"; and (8) "Checklist for Action." One appendix presents the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the other summarizes law enforcement under this legislation. A list of 45 sources is provided for further reading, and 27 organizations are listed as sources of additional information. (Contains 47 references.) (SLD)