During the critical early years, every child needs five essentials for building the foundation for a happy and healthy life. Modeled on-screen by a diverse group of loving parents with children ages 1 to 5, viewers learn the specific behaviors and techniques that will allow their children to reach their fullest potential.

The program provides parents with ideas for becoming an outstanding parent who loves and respects his/her children.

A single DVD includes five volumes (15 minutes per volume). From the DVD, a facilitator's guide and handouts can be downloaded. Closed-captioned. Suitable for ages 13 to adult. 2003.

The volumes are:

• Love and Stability - The pivotal component of all healthy development is that the child feels loved. Volume 1 teaches parents the behaviors that let children know they are loved, leading to security, trust and self-esteem.
  
  
• Time Together - Teaches parents the importance of daily focused interaction with their child and the specific activities that children find fun and comforting. The result? More involved parents, and a reduced risk of neglect and abuse.
  
  
• Inspire and Challenge - Demonstrates to parents how to provide a variety of age-appropriate experiences that gently challenge and stimulate growth, cultivating their children's curiosity and love of learning.
  
  
• Positive Discipline - This volume helps parents set rules and limits that are consistent with their child's development, giving them techniques to discipline without shaking, shouting, or hitting.
  
  
• Safety and Health - Shows the importance of good health care and regular doctor visits, plus how to create safe environments, model safe behavior, and choose high quality daycare.