Review of What Would You Do? A Kid's Guide to Staying Safe by Melissa Ridenour

What Would You Do? A Kid's Guide to Staying Safe in a World of Strangers by Melissa Harker Ridenour

Headline Books
ISBN# 978-0938467113
Children’s Book   Child Safety


Melissa Harker Ridenour, formerly a teacher and librarian, is now a freelance writer and children's book author. She has published essays, poetry, magazine articles, and web articles as well. A portfolio of samples of Melissa's work can be accessed through her writing website, Write Solution Ink.

Melissa believes in the power of words. "Words define us," she contends. "Our use of words, in both spoken and written communication, is often the first and most formidable impression that we make."

Review:


What Would You Do? A Kid's Guide to Staying Safe in a World of Strangers is a fantastic way to teach children about staying safe in a non-scary, parent approving way that children will understand.


For every parent there is always that lingering fear of something terrible happening to their children. The truth is that no matter how many times children are reminded about being safe, they are constantly put to the test on a daily basis. Will they remember what to do to keep themselves safe when the time comes? Every parent would like to think so, but as parents we also have our doubts. That is where this book becomes an invaluable resource for parents and children.   


The first chapter helps children identify a stranger and also talks to the reader about creating an 'In Case of Emergency'  list for children to know who to call if they are in trouble and more. The following chapter has sections where children are tested on what they know to see if they would make the right decisions if they were placed in a particular situation. The choices are simple and provides children with the answers to the questions, also providing a thourough explanation.   


Another important chapter is talking about what was learned. Every child can benefit from this section. It serves as reminders and reassures the children of what is right. This book is different in the sense that it provides great information in a simple way yet also tests them about what they know in a nonpreaching way. The book holds many facts and children who may have not felt comfortable before, may believe enough in themselves to talk to a parent or caregiver after reading the book.


Children from the ages of 9-12 are going to appreciate this 64 page chapter book as it helps them understand what it means to be safe and to know what they should and shouldn't do in certain situations. Parents will enjoy the reference part in the back of the book which supports them on this endeavor. This book helps teach safety in a nonthreatening way, helps empower children to believe in themselves, and for them to trust their instincts.