BABY ON THE WAY

TLC is the main ingredient in this first of a series for children by these leading husband-and-wife experts on parenting. With help from Christie Watts Kelly (New Families, New Finances: Money Skills for Today’s Nontraditional Families, 1998, etc.), the Sears Children’s Library begins with the preparations necessary when a family is expecting its newest member. Older siblings are taught about the developing baby and included in what their mother is experiencing. As her body changes from day to day, the children are given examples of when they may have had similar feelings of physical discomfort. Suggestions for further involvement include ideas for how the children can help around the house and welcome the new baby. Preceding the story are tips for parents to encourage family bonding during the pregnancy, and a resource box following the story teaches expectant moms and dads about “attachment parenting.” Factual information boxes throughout the pages include answers to children’s more advanced questions, allowing parents to modify the story as a child ages. Andriani’s (Annabel the Actress Starring in Gorilla My Dreams, 1999, etc.) illustrations come alive with even brush strokes of vivid watercolor. The light and dark shades display subtle transitions that easily reveal depth and shadow. Black sketched outlines lend excellent detail to the artwork. At a time when an older sibling’s self-assurance may become challenged, the importance of honesty, tenderness, and inclusion are evident and appreciated. (Picture book. 3-7)