From School Library Journal
Grade 4 Up?A good update to The Complete Babysitter's Handbook (Messner, 1980; o.p.). Little of the earlier edition has been eliminated, but two chapters of timely information have been added. All aspects of babysitting are considered: from getting started and finding jobs; through techniques for feeding, playtime, and bedtime; to responding to emergencies. The advice is solid, practical, and direct. Especially pertinent is the new material, which covers responsibility and courtesy, respect for the employer's family's values and children's rights, and the need for careful personal hygiene. The authors also address potential problem situations, such as parents who are late, intoxicated, or who act in an inappropriate manner; and suspicion of child abuse. The overall appearance of this edition has been freshened with new illustrations and layout. A solid first purchase.?Joyce Adams Burner, formerly at Spring Hill Middle School, KS
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 5^-7. With portions reprinted from the authors' 1980
The Complete Babysitter's Handbook, this expanded text should find an eager audience. Included are ideas on how to get jobs, entertain infants and young children, and responsibly fulfill the custodial commitment. The section on first aid is very good: it's firm about the necessity of getting adult help but realistic enough to provide prospective sitters with sufficient information to manage an emergency till grown-ups arrive. Barkin and James also keep the sitter's safety in mind: there's a note about AIDS transmission through blood contact, some tips on answering the door and the phone, and a few words concerning sexual harassment by a parent. Serious, practical, and chockablock with good advice.
Stephanie Zvirin
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
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