Since the inception of its program of Standards development, CWLA has formulated a series of Standards based on current knowledge, the developmental needs of children, and tested ways of meeting these needs effectively. The preparation of Standards involves an examination of current practices and the assumptions on which they are based; a survey of professional literature and standards developed by other groups; and a study of the most recent scientific findings of social work and related fields, such as child development, education, mental health, psychology, medicine, psychiatry, and sociology, as they bear on child welfare practice. The final formulation of each Standards volume follows extended discussion of principles and issues by committees of experts in each service, the drafting of a preliminary statement, and a critical review by CWLA member agencies and representatives of related professions and other national organizations. The format of each volume is similar: each Standard is numbered, with subsumed elaboration, and is also cross-referenced and indexed. Standards volumes are three-hole punched, with their own cover/divider and identifying tab, and are packaged individually. Binders are available for purchase separately.