Books worth a look

Teaching Pre K-8, Oct 2003 by Pitino, Donna

Always be Safe by Kathy Schulz (Scholastic, 2003). This rhyming text reviews basic safety rules. This is a great read for kids ages 6-7.

The Upstairs Cat by Karla Kuskin (Clarion, 2003). Feeling safe today involves teaching our children about peace. Two fighting cats help bring this concept to a child's level of understanding.

Rookie Read-About Health series, (Scholastic). Numerous titles introduce various facets of health and safety. Some of the newest titles are Allergies, Asthma and Earaches.

Soldier Boys by Dean Hughes (Atheneum, 2001). Set in World War II, this book gives the views of two young soldiers: one German and one American. It presents something for kids ages 12 and up to think about in today's troubled world.

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens (Simple Ways to Keep Your Cool in Stressful Times) by Richard Carlson (Hyperion, 2000). This book offers teens practical advice and inspiration on a variety of subjects. Among its 100 topics are "Experience Vibrant Health" and "Notice Your Parents Doing Things Riant."

Millicent Min, Girl Genius by Lisa Yee (Scholastic, 2003). Do you have a child who feels "too smart" to fit in and is becoming anxious about it? He or she may identify with Millicent, who faces the same dilemma in this fiction book. This is a terrific book for kids ages 9-12.

PICK FOR PARENTS

Chicken Soup for the Mother & Daughter Soul by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, Julie Firman, Dorothy Firman and Frances Firman Salorio (Health Communications, 2003). These heartwarming stories will inspire you to be the best parent you can be and to pick yourself up and try again on those discouraging days. Forthcoming titles include, Chicken Soup for the Father & Daughter Soul and Chicken Soup for the Single Parent's Soul. These previous titles on parenting are also available: Chicken Soup for the Parent's Soul, Chicken Soup for the Father's Soul, Chicken Soup for the Mother's Soul.

Donna Pitino was a teacher for 14 years and is now a freelance writer. She is the mother of two daughters.