Book Description

This best-selling book-and-doll package includes a newly designed Joshua or Prudence doll and potty, paired with the Once Upon a Potty picture book.

Just like you, Joshua has a body, and this body has many nice and useful parts:
A head for thinking
Eyes for seeing
Ears for hearing
A mouth to talk and eat with
Hands for playing
A pee-pee for making Wee-Wee
Legs for walking and running
A bottom for sitting and in it a little hole for making Poo-Poo

Dear Fellow-Parents,

Once Upon a Potty is best used as a companion volume to a child's new potty. I wrote this book when my own child was toilet training to help him better understand the process. My son was encouraged and excited by this story. It motivated him to make the developmental leap from diaper to potty.

Learning to use the potty is often a lengthy process, taxing the patience of both parent and child. When success finally comes--and it should come in its own good time, without undue pressure or haste--it enhances the child's confidence and pride. He has taken another step toward independence. He sat on the potty as a little child and got up feeling ten-feet tall.

It's one small step for mankind, but a giant one for your family.

Love,
Alona

Reviews (43)

loved the book, even with the pitcher shaped potty!
I received this book as a gift when my son was starting to potty train. He loved the book and I found it very helpful in getting him to make the transition from diapers to potty chair. I've read the other reviews and was surprised to see so many complaining about the look of the potty in the book. Yes it does look like a pitcher and it does not look anything like my son's potty chair, but it didn't seem to matter. People need to remember that books are just a tool to help in potty training. It's not going to be accomplished any quicker just because the potty in the book looks more modern. I just bought the girl version for my daughter and hope it works for her as well.

This is my second copy.
I got one copy of this book that came with a potty that I bought from Babies R Us. I read it to my 18 month old once and then sat him on the potty. Within a minute's time he yelled "Pee Pee!" and low and behold there it was. OK so it hasn't happened since then but my son adores this book. Normally we have house toys, car toys, and going out toys but every since I bought it (just 4 days ago) it's the only toy we carry everywhere we go or else I'd hear "Potty book, potty book!" all day. I lost it last night at the supermarket and we went to sleep asking for it and woke up asking for it. Needless to say, I put in an order for it this morning.
Maybe by the fourth or fifth copy he'll be a pro at this potty thing:-)

Cute, but better for younger children
My son was a very reluctant 3.5 year old when he finally potty trained. We had gotten this book when he was much younger and he did enjoy it, but as he got older it became a bit babyish for him. It's much more sing song than practical, but it is cute. I did not find it offensive, as other reviewers may have.

My 2 year old loves it
Yes, the pictures are a bit outdated. Yes, the author uses "wee-wee" for penis. But it says right in the front that she recommends parents replace any words she has chosen for terms you, the parent, would rather use. (You don't HAVE to read a book exactly as the author wrote, you know).

Also, the white ceramic pot looks just like the white plastic pot that is inside our Safety 1st potty chair that I bought in May, 2004. Just take apart the potty and show it to your child.

don't read this to your child.
I found this book way far on the edge of what any parent would really want to teach their child.
The pictures are graphic, which for me is fine as they are nature (but may not be to all.)However he pees in something that looks like a bowl then a toilet. Also they seem to stray from potty training itself a bit. However the biggest part that bothered me was the reference to where you poop from. They refer to it as a "HOLE". Now I find nothing wrong with 'bottom' personally but even if someone was more inclined to use another word I would hear 'tush' or 'rear' but never have I heard hole. Often you here hole used in terminology as rude (ex: "shut your hole") I can't understand why the author chose to use a word that sounds more insulting the realistic or informational. There are many other book out there that teach the poitives and cover the same subjects in a better way. ... Read more

Book Description

"It seems like everyone else has the script. Everyone else knows what's happening and I look around and say, Duh."

Of course, the truth is that no one has the script because there is no script to follow. Chances are you'd find that almost everyone else has questions and worries a lot like yours, if you could get them to admit it. This brand-new, completely updated and revised edition of Changing Bodies, Changing Lives is full of honest, accurate, nonjudgmental information on everything teenagers need to know about today.

Am I the only one who

• can't get up the nerve to ask someone out?
  
• got my period so early?
  
• doesn't even know the right way to kiss?
  
• feels pressured to use drugs?
  
• still hasn't hit puberty yet?
  
• wants to avoid the gang scene?
  
• worries when my mom doesn't come home at night?
  
• is scared that I might have AIDS?
  
• can't decide what form of birth control to use?
  
• has no idea how to tell my friends I'm gay?
  
• goes on eating binges?
  
• has never had an orgasm?
  
• is shut out of the popular crowd?
  

Being a teenager is tough. With the information and the ideas inside this book, you'll have what you need to make these years the best they can be.
... Read more

Reviews (8)

a great resource for any preteen or teen
I am 20 years old and recieved this book at the age of 12. It was an amazing resource for me throughout my preteen year, and teen years. I was able to get non biased information, just the facts, whenever I was too embarased to ask someone. I am now looking at buying one for my 11 year old brother, so that he can learn from it the way I have.

Book for talking to preteens about many topics
This book is a very good spring board to help talk or at least begin talking about key topics to,or with preteens. This could be at own home or home of grandparent/friend/sister/brother/aunt/uncle/Godparent/spouse/neighbor/or at a pediatrican's/orthodontist's/dentist's/nurse's/psychiatrist's/psychologist's office or waiting room. At school,camp,business office or waiting room,local or school library, bookstore reading room,hospital,or at a shelter, wherever preteens are. It can be helpful for the preteen to browse through, read independently, and/or together with parent,guardian, significant other,teacher, friends, doctor,school administrator . Some kids could be ready to read it on their own independently,in privacy or out in the open in conjunction with others, now, or in the future. It could also be used as a gage to see where a child is developmentally by a parent,significant other,teacher,groups of adults or/preteens/researcher, college or graduate school student(eg. in a book club, study group, school course,and with others eg.those listed above).
As you can see Knowing and Changing;a Guide For Preteens is a book for many places,many uses, and for many people.

Every teen and parent should own one
This is the best book on being a teenager that I have ever read! And this should mean a lot to you coming from a teen (I'm a 15 year old male). It's different from other books in that it encourages teens to make their own decisions in life. It doesn't come out and say, "No! Sex is bad! You will rot in hell if you have sex before you are married!" Instead, it gives equal reasons of why to have sex and why not to and then describes all the means of birth control. But it doesn't just deal with sex, it also touches on emotions that you might have through adolecence, masturbation, what you can do if you do become pregnent, and even drugs.

Review from a High School Student
My Human Development class was required to read this book during this school year (freshman year). I have to say that I found this book informative but the majority of the information I already knew in some form of another. The quotes are very interesting yet one becomes drawn in by them, ignoring the point the quotes try to make. Any teen should be given this book or one like it, just to reasure him or her that (s)he is not alone in being a teenager.

Every teen should have this book!
This book is an outstanding volume for all teens. It is full of information that they need for making healthy choices through their teen years. It does not promote any single ideology, or push a certain set of values or choices. It gives information that the teen may only get hodge-podge through friends, conversations with parents or some school programs. Also, the book is full of quotes from interviews with teens. So, the teen hears the feelings and ideas in a form that they can "hear", not an adult voice telling them what to do. Far more approachable for teens. This one's a must! ... Read more

Book Description

During the summer of 1793, Mattie Cook lives above the family coffee shop with her widowed mother and grandfather. Mattie spends her days avoiding chores and making plans to turn the family business into the finest Philadelphia has ever seen. But then the fever breaks out.

Disease sweeps the streets, destroying everything in its path and turning Mattie's world upside down. At her feverish mother's insistence, Mattie flees the city with her grandfather. But she soon discovers that the sickness is everywhere, and Mattie must learn quickly how to survive in a city turned frantic with disease. ... Read more

Reviews (114)

Historical Tragedy
Imagine fleeing your home, leaving family members behind, just trying to get away from the plague!
In the book Fever 1793 written by Laurie Halse Anderson, a fourteen year old girl named Mattie Cook, has to leave her home in Philadelphia during 1793. She lives with her mother and grandfather above their family business, the Cook Coffeehouse. Many citizens come down with yellow fever and when Mattie comes home to find her mother sick, lying on the doorstep, she must help her. Ms. Cook refuses to let Mattie get near her, in fear of Mattie getting ill as well. Mattie and her grandfather decide to flee the city. Eliza, their maid, stays behind to care for Ms. Cook and other friends who have also come down with yellow fever.
I thought this was and excellent book. The author gave fantastic descriptions of what Philadelphia looked like during this crisis. she makes it posible to actually see the run-down city, and the corpses lying in piles at the cemetary waiting to be buried. What also made this book so interesting was that it was written about every day. It was almost like reading a journal. All of the details made it seem so real that I could put myself in Mattie's shoes. She had to grow up fast so that she could help out and she had to deal with so much.
Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson is and excellent historical book. It is filled with descriptions that make you feel like you were in that time period.

Catch the Fever!
I think that Fever 1793 is a wonderful book. It is very realistic and it kept me interested even though I'm not too fond of history. A good story is told, and the author has obviously done her homework because it stays true to actual historic events. The reader can get a pretty good idea of what it was like during the yellow fever epidemic while still getting the story that they are reading for.
The actual story of the book is about a girl trying to survive the yellow fever outbreak in Philadelphia that occurred in 1793. Mattie, the main character, is originally lazy and would rather sleep than do her share of work, but she learns responsibility and realizes that work isn't all-bad and that it is essential for her survival. She overcomes the odds and survives her own case of yellow fever but then is faced with other problems that she needs to solve. The city of Philadelphia has become a not so pleasant place. The fever has left Philadelphia full of scoundrels and thieves. Everyone else is either dead or deathly sick. The thieves have stolen everything that Mattie has to her name and she has to basically start all over. Her fight for life has become harder and she is beginning to break down emotionally when she meets up an old friend and realizes she is not in this alone. I think that this book not only demonstrates how hard work can help you in the long run but also how standing by your friends can help you through these hard times.
This book is a good book for teens to read because it is written as from a teen's perspective. We can relate to the lazy feelings she has and the want to just give up. Mattie also has a somewhat of a lesson to teach us. She teaches us that if you want to make a difference in this world you can't give up. You have to keep trying and you will eventually reach you goal.

Fever 1973
Author of Speak, Laurie Halse Anderson writes her amazing historical fiction book, Fever 1793 about a teenage girl named Matilda a.k.a. Mattie who faces difficulty and fights for her life. The story is written really well and Laurie Halse Anderson does a good job making Matilda sound like a girl in the 18th century. In Fever 1793 the bonds of friendship and love is written really well.
16 year-old Matilda Cook's mother and grandfather owns a popular coffee shop on High Street. Mattie was a lazy girl with a comfortable and plain life. Her whole life changes when the yellow fever epidemic arrives in Philadelphia. Her mother caught the fever and sends Matilda and her grandfather away to be safe. They leave Philadelphia and on their way both Matilda and her grandfather catches yellow fever. So much happens like the death of Mattie's grandfather and her mother goes missing. The epidemic kills thousands of people. When winter comes the epidemic ends. The fever might have ended but the bad memories are still there.
The epidemic caused Mattie to change a lot. She was a lazy girl in the beginning of the book but then she became more responsible and strong. The character shift that Laurie Halse Anderson did was really good.
I had read her other book Speak and thought it was an ok book. But Fever 1973 is one of the best books I've ever read. This book was written I such a way that it is hard to put down. Anderson makes you want to keep reading. I read this book in 3 days and couldn't put it down. I never knew historical fiction could be so fun to read.
Fever 1793 is written so well. I couldn't find any downside besides the fact that I thought the beginning was boring, other than that it was perfect. This book really gives you a picture of the 18th century. This book was not only fun to read but it also was educational. These are two qualities that make the book great.

A Little Too Melodramatic
The bubonic plague in Europe took 25 million lives. The Yellow Fever in 18th century Philadelphia took a mere 5000 lives and lasted a few weeks. Anderson overdramatizes the event both in the historical context as well as the storyline. So much happens to her heroine over such a short period of time that it strains credulity.

Also, a note to the author. On Page 187 of the paperback, 'laying' should be 'lying' according to the rules of correct grammar.

Fever 1793
A very cool author Laurie Halse Anderson wrote the adventurous book Fever 1793. Laurie Halse Anderson also wrote Speak, and other great books. Laurie Anderson wrote Fever 1793, so people would understand the devastating yellow fever that struck Pennsylvania in 1793. This story explains the reality Mattie was in. Mattie Cook, a fourteen-year-old girl who lived in Philadelphia. Her parents owned the Cook Coffeehouse, and Mattie was very proud. She had big dreams to make the coffeehouse a big company for the president. Mattie's life and dream changes after her friend, Polly, dies of a mysterious fever. Mattie was shocked of Polly's sudden death, but she was more shocked when she found out that her mother had gotten it. She couldn't admit that it was really happening. Mattie's mother decided to send Mattie to the Ludington's house, with grandfather to take her. Mattie was surprised that no one was stopping her mother. Not even Eliza, a freed slave that works for them. Eliza usually is understanding, and Mattie thought Eliza would stop Mother, but she didn't. Mattie is terribly scared when her grandfather becomes ill on the trip. Mattie and the driver's family fears that it is yellow fever, and the driver kicks Mattie and Grandfather out of the carriage. Now it was all up to Mattie to save her Grandfather and herself. Mattie learns the true fear and terror of the yellow fever. She hears terrifying screams at night, and smells blood and death everywhere. Worst of all, she sees victims dead bodies being carried out. She sees lifeless corpses in the streets. The imagery was amazing, and it makes the reader feel like they're Mattie. As the story goes on, it explains how Mattie goes back to her house with Grandfather. As soon as they go back to they house, the worst thing happens. Robbers come to the cofee house. This is Mattie transforms from an un responsible teenager to an older responsible adult. Two robbers killed grandfather, and Mattie needs to pay attention to herself, not trying to find her mother in the fever anymore. First Mattie couldn't find any hope of survival, and wondered around the streets looking for help. When she does look for survival in the streets Mattie finds out that it's very hard to survive, and on the way she met Nell. Mattie found Nell's mother dead, and Nell by herself sobbing. Mattie understood how the poor little girl felt, and took Nell with her since she felt sympathy for Nell. Mattie was losing all of her hope, and was about to give up when she saw Eliza. Eliza was helping the Free African Society, and taking care of the fever victims. Mattie stayed with Eliza, which stayed with Eliza's brother. Her brother had two sons, and took care of Nell for Mattie sometimes. The two young sons and Nell, were stricken with yellow fever. Eliza and Mattie panicked, and they were losing every hope they ever had. Then, a miracle occurred. There was frost everywhere.And I do not want to spoil the ending (...). This story is exciting, and is a great story. Mattie keeps on losing hope, and realizes that she isn't dreaming. She learns a harsh reality about life and death as her life goes on. ... Read more

Book Description

Toilet training has never been such an adventure as when it is introduced by popular cartoonist Mo Willems. With his signature humor, the author gently leads children through each step in the process that will finally bring them to their emancipation from diapers. Featuring a crew of funny mice holding up signs with the text, children will be amused and inspired by this hilarious new picture book. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Another Winner by Mr. Willems!
I think this could be the very first book about going number 1!The art, the story, the subject matter -- all beautifully put together. Educational, rewarding and even comes complete with fantastic and fun stickers to use in the encouragement of your child's learning process (mine's not there yet, but with the help of this book I know she will be soon!). This is more than just a learning tool, it is a great book and one I foresee reading together for many years to come. A Classic!

Useful -- "I feel proud"
We're using this book during a potty training marathon with our rather willful 2-year old. It has helped him put words to the positive feeling he gets when he succeeds ("I feel proud", he says, beaming.) The text is presented in a fun way, in the form of celebratory signs and banners paraded by supportive mice. His older brother enjoys sounding out the words, so it's nice to have a book they both can enjoy. I haven't used the stickers and chart yet (he's not to that stage yet) but I remember hand-making something similar for his older brother when we were working on consistency -- it worked like a champ!

GREAT, Must Get!!
As a professional Child Counselor, I recommend this book and own it. The reason for this book, is to teach children how to use the restroom in a polite way. Eating, sleeping, and using the bathroom are learned behaviors.

The author writes very simplistic, and the pictures are eye-catching. Wonderful book

It's Time to Pee
Very awful,Corny. Plus, Why would an auther writhe such a wierd book!!!! Horrifing! ... Read more

Book Description

Just like you, Prudence has a body, and this body has many nice and useful parts:
A head for thinking
Eyes for seeing
Ears for hearing
A mouth to talk and eat with
Hands for playing
A pee-pee for making Wee-Wee
Legs for walking and running
A bottom for sitting and in it a little hole for making Poo-Poo

Dear Fellow-Parents,

Once Upon a Potty is best used as a companion volume to a child's new potty. I wrote this book when my own child was toilet training to help him better understand the process. My son was encouraged and excited by this story. It motivated him to make the developmental leap from diaper to potty.

Learning to use the potty is often a lengthy process, taxing the patience of both parent and child. When success finally comes -- and it should come in its own good time, without undue pressure or haste -- it enhances the child's confidence and pride. She has taken another step toward independence. She sat on the potty as a little child and got up feeling ten-feet tall.

It's one small step for mankind, but a giant one for your family.

Love,
Alona

... Read more

Reviews (39)

I'm amazed at the effectiveness of this book
I read all the reveiews on Amazon and decided to give it a try based on the kid's reviews. It seems that it's the parents that had the biggest problem with the "out of date" illustrations and the "vase-like potty". Who cares. My 21 month old knew exactly what it was and what it was for. As I'm writing this review she just brought me her full potty bowl and said "Bye bye wee wee". Then she said "dance". She likes to celebrate by dancing to the potty song. The audio tape is awesome because it gives me a break from having to read the book for the umpteenth time. We started 3 days ago and she's only had 2 minor leaks. Now we just have to train the bladder during nap time and bed time. This book is awesome. I love the way my daughter says "Prooonence" for Prudence. I must say that I have a fast learning child, so she may have done just as well without the book, but the book sure makes her have a lot of fun learning. I love it. And I'm finding myself singing "Yes I'm going to the potty potty now" quite often. :-)

Potty Trains AND Connects Reading to Real Life
I bought this book for my daughter, and now have it on my wish list for my grandson (the boys version) We already used the girls version for my grand daughter!

Not only does it facilitate communication between parent and child concerning potty training, it's also a great way to introduce kids to non-fiction books, and books that are otherwise relavent to life skills, allows parents to potty train with some humor, but breaks the ice of embarassment for those who have a bit of reservation about how to potty train.

Not only does this book almost potty train for you, it also sparks interest in other books, and in reading. The copies of the boys' and girls' versions (I had both) were read until they were falling apart (and it wasn't because they weren't made well - we literally wore these books out reading them over and over and over again!)

This book, and paying attention to the signs of when my daughter and grandaughter needed to go, along with a potty chair, is all we needed to get her off to potty-training success! She graduated in record time! (She was out of diapers I think by about 18 months!)

This book is a MUST HAVE for any parent potty traning a child (Well, a girl anyhow - there is also a boy's version which I used with my daughter that is just as awesome!)

If I could give this book 100 stars I would! I think it ought to be given to parents in those hospital packs that hospitals send home, or given out at pediatricians' offices when kids are due for immunizations around a year old.

Daily reading to my kids is something that I started before they were even born, and is SO important to their speech development, and to their language development. Having a book toddlers can relate to in real life helps them understand reading is more than just about 'stories' - it can relate to real life experiences as well!

My kids are grown, and I am extatic to see these books (the boys and girls versions) are still available for my grandkids!

Blessings to the author, Alona Frankel Thank you!!!

Excellent Potty Learning Tool!!
My husband and I have no clue as to how to teach potty training to our first child. So, we've spent much money on guides, books, videos, stories, etc. This book (and the video) have made a major break through. My daughter loves the story of Prudence and her potty! With her plethora of videos, she chooses this one to view, and wants to sit on the potty while watching it! Last night (which is why I decided to write a review), my daughter asked to use the potty, and she proceeded to poo. When she was all done, she proudly stood up and announced that she pooped on the potty just like Prudence! Finally we've made a connection!!

Have I read this book? Only a THOUSAND times!!
Got this book AGES ago for my older daughter, now almost 10. Well, my 18 month old daughter "discovered" it about a month ago - though she's not ready to start potty training just yet - she LOVES THIS BOOK! She asks us to read it at least 6-8 times a day, and when we aren't reading it to her, she looks through it on her own. She understands more and more what the whole issue is, and this book might be the "cause" of her potty training EARLY! How much does she love this book?? Two days ago, one of the pages fell out - and I can't figure out how to fix it - she has been upset and crying over the loss of this book since then - I have to get a new one (that's why I'm here!).

down with baby talk
This book is awful. Unless you want your child refering to her body parts as 'pee-pee' and saying things like 'wee-wee' and 'poo-poo' stay away from this book! Babies and children would not talk like this if adults did not teach them to! People who do so should hang their heads in shame. Teach your children the correct names for their body parts and they wont grow up so repressed. I couldn't even donate this book to charity for fear soome unsuspecting person might buy it, first I let my youngest use it as a teather and then I pitched it! (...) ... Read more

Book Description

The innovative YogaKids(r) program offers more than just poses: It blends traditional yoga and its benefits with new theories of multiple learning styles in a comprehensive, imaginative, and playful approach to education.

The best-selling YogaKids(r) video (a Parent's Choice award winner) has been helping kids-and their parents-discover the pleasures and benefits of yoga for more than seven years. With this book, Marsha Wenig's fun and child-friendly course is expanded and enriched for parents, teachers, and caregivers.

YogaKids(r) presents more than 50 carefully selected poses, in clear, easy-to-follow, color photographs, paired with special activities that stimulate children's verbal, spatial, and artistic skills. The book includes special yoga routines to cover a multitude of common situations, such as calming down, getting ready for a test, or even riding in a car, as well as help for children with special needs. Parents learn the physical and emotional benefits of each pose; children discover that learning is fun, that exercise feels good, and that taking care of their bodies is easy. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

A Wonderful Resource for Children and their Parents
I may be slightly prejudiced as I have studied with Marsha Wenig and am certified in her educational approach. However, I am delighted with this colorful, child-friendly book. I intend to offer it in all my children's classes so students can continue exploring yoga at home. Not just a book of poses, the book includes fun-filled facts related to the 14 elements that are integrated in all YogaKids classes: From ecological echoes such as how butterflies use their antennae to laughing language: six different sounds Yogakids "lions" make, this book makes yoga fun and removes any of the mystique behind it. Parents, teachers, and librarians can use the many resources found in the back of the book such as music to set mood and accompany poses and the book list of suggested "Reading Comes Alive with Yoga" selections. Wenig brings her expertise as a yoga practitioner, teacher, mom, and innovative program developer to make this a "must have" book for all families with children who need to get up off the couch and move! From special needs (asthma, developmental delays, sensory integration, stiffness and postural deficits, etc.), if you can't get your child to a YogaKids class, this fun book is the next best thing!

Finally, one yoga book children and adults can appreciate!
This is the most comprehensive and beautiful children's yoga book available today(and I have read every other kids yoga book found on amazon.com), BUT it doesn't matter what I think. See for yourself, the expression of awe on children's faces as they look through this joyful book and become inspired by their peers. If the child has previously taken a yoga class or seen the YogaKids video the effect is even more powerful. It is truly a lovely book that helps children (and adults) learn more about the relationship between our mind and body; to use our imagination by 'playing' yoga; and to teach respect for and strengthen the bonds between each other and all other living things.

Best kids yoga book out there!
great photos - easy instructions - kid friendly games and activites.

this is a must have to introduce yoga and it's life-long benefits.

Best Yoga Book For Kids yet !
As I am in the process of studying to teach yoga, this IS the best teacher book I've seen yet to teaching children the wonderful practice of yoga. Thanks Marsha.

Amazing Holistic Approach for Children
The fullness of this book with its approach of the multiple intelligence holistic view of how we all....not only children...can learn in fun ways is awesome. The book is visually appealing and the information is easily accessed when researching ideas. It does not surprise me that the book meets so many needs in such a creative manner, as my experience with YogaKids has been and continues to be such a creative and encouraging journey. Thank you Marsha for once again inspiring the work that is so helpful to children and society at large. ... Read more

Book Description

A Time to Celebrate shows the menstrual cycle as a gift and a healthy function of the female body. It is a book a mother, father, sister, aunt, grandmother, friend or mentor can give to a girl to celebrate her first menstrual period. This momentous time in her life should be recognized like all other occasions and her transition from girlhood to womanhood honored.

This book portrays a positive picture of menstruation which helps empower girls and teaches them to love, care for, and respect their body. The more a girl knows about her body, the more she will take control of it and make the right choices for herself.

Included in the book are charts for keeping track of her period and feelings, and a journal for writing her thoughts and creative expressions.

It is never too late to celebrate this time and make it a special rite of passage. Every girl should have a copy of this book even if she has already started her period. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Time to celebrate
Joan, Where were you when I needed you? I wish I had the chance to have a book like this when I first started my period at the tended age of nine. I thought I was dying. I felt I was the only girl with the 'curse'.Y our book is what every young girl should read. This is a perfect gift for my great nieces. I purchased your book just for them. A Time to Celebrate encourages and tells young girls just how to how to celebrate their menses and to love themselves. What a great idea!

Janie Bess

Author of
Visions from God ... Read more

Amazon.com

Officer Buckle is a roly-poly bloke, dedicated to teaching schoolchildren important safety tips, such as never put anything in your ear and never stand on a swivel chair. The problem is, Officer Buckle's school assemblies are dull, dull, dull, and the children of Napville just sleep, sleep, sleep. That is, until Gloria the police dog is invited along! Stealthily pantomiming each safety tip behind Officer Buckle's back, Gloria wins the children's hearts. Meanwhile Officer Buckle assumes the cheers and laughter are all for him. As the master comedian Jerry Lewis once explained, every slapstick artist needs a straight man! Children will be highly entertained by the laugh-out-loud, adorable illustrations in this 1996 Caldecott Medal winner, while learning the value of teamwork and a pawful of nifty safety tips. (Ages 4 to 8) --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Stay with your buddy!
This book for children is about a police officer (I've been told that it is based, in part, on a San Francisco officer) who gives talks on safety to elementary school children. His talks are quite boring until he is accompanied by his police dog, Gloria. At first he is deflated that the students aren't cheering his presentation; but, with Gloria present they actually learn safety. The book won the 1996 Caldecott Medal for best illustrations in a children's book. One of the earlier reviewers gave this book only two stars apparently because they couldn't see the humor. Part of the humor can be found in the background and how it meshes with the text.

A Read-Aloud Hit!
Primary age students in our school love to have "OfficerBuckle and Gloria" read aloud to them, and upper grade studentsremember this story fondly.

While the story stands alone as a playful read-aloud, it can be an effective tool for opening a discussion on safety. Officer Buckle keeps thinking of new safety tips that he keeps thumbtacked to his bulletin board, like "never do tricks on the monkey bars without someone there to catch you." The endpapers of the book are also filled with stars containing more safety tips.

Just as the students in the story are entertained by Gloria, the dog, and come away with Officer Buckle's helpful tips, children who read or listen to this book read will be entertained, yet come away with some great advice, such as "always wear a crash helmet."

This one deserves the Caldecott Medal as the colorful, playful drawings are an essential part of the story.

Safety tips
Officer Buckle is a friendly police officer who enjoys making up safety tips and sharing them with school children. However, the school children find Officer Buckle's safety lectures boring, until the day when he takes his new police dog Gloria along with him to the lecture. Officer Buckle doesn't know it, but Gloria has a habit of acting out the tips behind his back while he is speaking. When Officer Buckle finally finds out what Gloria is doing behind his back, he decides to stop giving lectures. But Gloria finds that she can't go on without him, and the school children also miss the fun. The story is very cute and not at all scary.

An officer and a gentle dog
Widely regarded as the least deserving Caldecott winner in the last 15 years. Now that's a pretty negative opening comment about a book that is, all in all, an amusing story about a man and his eclectic dog. And I'm not saying that this book is THE worst Caldecott winner to have ever existed. That honor belongs to the ludicrously racist and factually inaccurate "Abraham Lincoln" by the Parin d'Aulaires. Certainly this is a nice little tale about safety, and it presents actual important safety tips in a fun and original manner. But it's hardly deserving of a medal. Hardly.

In this tale, Officer Buckle finds that his school safety tips are being met with more than a little disregard on the part of the students. Kids are just snoring in the aisles when Buckle reads the list of tips. All that changes when the Officer acquires a police dog named Gloria. Suddenly the kids are wide-awake for Buckle's safety demos, and it's no wonder. Gloria is faithfully acting out each and every safety tip as her owner reads them out. From "Never leave a thumbtack where you might sit on it" to "Do not go swimming during electrical storms". Of course, Officer Buckle has no clue why there has been such a rise in his own popularity. But when watching a taped recording of his own program, the law enforcement agent must decide whether or not he is of any real importance to the community, or if it's all Gloria's glory.

There's a lot to love in this story. Rathmann has fitted many a scene with tiny interesting details. Buckle fans (as well as the Officer himself) sport anti-banana peel badges and t-shirts. Officer Buckle's book collection (containing such titles as "You Can't Be Too Careful" and "Safety in Numbers") is held together by Gloria shaped book-ends. And check out Buckle's final safety tip written in front of him while angrily refusing to do anymore speeches (#100: Never turn your back on a strange dog). The plot is cute as well. It's nice to see an energetic dog in the vein of Snoopy or Mark Teague's Ike that's female for once. And there is a real affection between Buckle and his trusty canine friend. I think back to the scene of the policeman feeding Gloria an ice cream cone after she's given a stint of autographs to waiting fans. Finally, there's no denying that Buckle has come up with some really good safety tips. The front and end papers of this book show some useful stars containing Gloria acting out why one should or should not follow such n' such a tip.

Now when I said the book didn't deserve the Caldecott, I meant it. It's a swell book with a fun story and lovely pictures. But it's not superb. I can only assume it won solely on the basis that it is the only Caldecott book to discuss safety in any serious manner. And it does so without causing undue fear or worry on the part of the small child reader. Which is good. So by all means, go out and read this nice little story. Just don't expect to be blown away by its wit or depth.

just so so funny
we just read it together and laugh and laugh and laugh. and then one of us, my son or i will point to another illustration of gloria's expressions or antics and we just laugh and laugh again. a lovely book. ... Read more

Book Description

Potty training can be fun. With warmth and sensitivity, Joanna Cole and Maxie Chambliss guide young boys though the challenges and rewards potty training--from the first steps to the joy of graduating to big boy underpants! A helpful "Note to parents" is included.

Reviews (11)

This potty book will make your child into a big boy!
This book is a great source for potty training toddlers. It will build their confidence, and will gently teach them how they are expected to act as big boys. It has easy to understand text, and visual illustrations that allow children to relate on a more personal level. With warmth and sensitivity, the authors guide young boys though the challenges and rewards of potty training--from the first steps to the joy of graduating to big boy underpants! I highly recommend this book!

My son LOVES this book
We are just starting potty training and my son LOVES this book. He can totally relate to Michael, the little boy in the story. I think it does a great job of explaining the potty training process in simple, easy-to-understand terms. Each time we read it he gets excited about trying to use the potty. I highly recommend it.

Great for a Stubborn 3 year old
My son is now 3 years and 7 months old and FINALLY potty trained. Alhtough other books were cute, this one was practical explaining accidents and the need for night time diapers after day time training. Very cute and one of my sons favorite books.

Potty Problems.. Get This Book!!!!
This book is a great example for potty training toddlers. It clearly illustrates how to show, in easy to understand language, your potty trainer, suggestions on how to use the potty. Such visual illustrations allow the child to relate in a more personal level. This book also shows children that it is o.k. to have an accident, without ridicule. Great Book. Here's a tip for those anxious parents, your child is precious and unique so do not be upset if they do not catch on right away, be patient and kind, and the will succeed with your support. Good Luck.

Almost potty trained!!!
My little boy really saw himself in this book, he has a special teddy that he would sit with while reading on his potty.
Its a good book for introduction to the potty! ... Read more

Book Description

A book for children ages 6 - 12 who have Asperger's Disorder. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A Good Start
This is a book I wish had existed a generation ago. It had high and low points. The high points were the voice of acceptance that was being given to explaining Asperger's, which is a neurological condition on the autism spectrum to children. It is a good starter book for sharing with children on the spectrum who continue coping with "undefined differences."

One thing that bothered me was that the writing suggested a "uniform, one size fits all" approach and description of Asperger's. This can be misleading to readers. Still, it was a good faith effort and one that can be used to empower children on the spectrum and explain their "differences" in a clear cut, humane and frank way.

A great Child to Child Perspective
This is a great Child to child perspective on AS. It displays some humor while the child voices AS as he sees it from his family.

if you've got a young child with AS, get this book
I found this book to be helplful in dealing with other children who will be dealing with my son. We take it into his class on the first day of school and have the teacher read it to his peers so they somewhat understand him and his behaviors. We also read it right after his diagnosis and it helped our son to relate and understand what AS is. I recomend this book.

About Asperger's Huh?....
This book helped me get into my son's mind and understand why he does some of the things he does. It confronts some of the everyday problems that Asperger's kids have, and gives the disorder a face. It's not sugar-coated, which I appreciate; it accurately describes the difficulties these kids encounter. I highly recommend this book as a tool to help others understand the mind of an Asperger's child.

One perspective
Each person with Aspergers is unique and wonderful. This book was disappointing because it makes generalizations when there is not a "cookie-cutter" description that fits across the board. My husband and I read it first and decided not to share it with our 7-year old Asperger child because most of it would be more confusing than enlightening. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

A very good book for the young girl!
I bought this book for my 9 year old daughter who has yet to start her period. I wanted to give her some information without boring her or confusing her. This book covers many good topics in such a wonderful way! It explains things I wouldn't of thought to explain (emergency situations, bra sizes etc.) I did read this book with my daughter since it does cover the topic of intercourse which I don't feel she needs to know the details of yet. It explains the parts of her body without being overly graphic (pictures are of female organs only) which is wonderful. Overall it has given her confidence in what she is and will be going through. She asks questions and is no longer afraid of what is to come. I'm so glad to have found this book!! I will be using it again with my younger daughter when the time comes.

Perfect first "growing up" book for the preteen girl
I have been searching for a book for my daughter (she turned 10 today!) that will help me to explain some of what will be happening to her body over the next few years. So many of the books contain too much information about sex, birth control, etc., that I feel is more appropriate for an older girl (say, 13 and up). This book, though, is just perfect for her age. It touches on all the things I think are important (breast development, first period, pubic hair and so forth). The information, language and tone of this book are just right for a girl who is still a little girl but who will not be for much longer. I am totally comfortable with reading this book to my daughter and then discussing it with her over time. I am sure she will want to take it to read on her own later, too. A wonderful book that I cannot recommend strongly enough for 9-13 year old girls.

Patronizing, lacks good illustrations
I was extremely disappointed in this book, given the glowing reviews it has received here. The introduction describes the author's fond memories of her uninhibited mother asking her to fetch sanitary napkins, walking naked around the house, and positioning her breasts in her bra. Perhaps this book is best suited to the daughters of similarly uninhibited women. I found the semi-burlesque description embarrassing, and worried my daughter will feel deprived because her mommy values a modicum of privacy. The cartoonish diagrams were vague and unhelpful. I'm afraid the introduction set the whole tone of the book, and I found the rest just plain annoying. I will save this book for when my daughter is 13, she may find it amusing. In the mean time I'll get a good anatomy book, explain what all the "parts" are for, and go from there.

Informative book for girls
My daughter is 9 and found this book to be very interesting. It answers alot of questions girls have and are afraid or embaressed to ask. This book opens the doors to communication, a must have for all girls to read!

Not what I expected...
I was very disappointed when I receieved this book that I ordered for my nine year old daughter. In fact, I have decided not to give it to her at this time. I think it is for a little bit older girl or one who is already "maturing". I was looking for a "first" book about periods, growing/changing bodies, etc. From the reviews I read online, that is what I thought it was. It seems more geared towards girls who are already experiencing these life changes. ... Read more

Book Description

Potty training can be fun. With warmth and sensitivity, Joanna Cole and Maxie Chambliss guide young girls though the challenges and rewards potty training--from the first steps to the joy of graduating to big girl underpants! A helpful "Note to parents" is included.

Reviews (12)

SHE DID IT!
This is to update my review dated September 14, 2000. I read this book to my daughter every afternoon at naptime and every night at bedtime - at her request! Last Wednesday, October 4, 2000 I bought her big girl underpants as an incentive - just like Ashley in the book. And guess what? She started to use the potty! In fact, she still enjoys hearing the story, because now she says that she is "just like Ashley". Thank you so much for a great little book.

SHE DID IT!
I wanted to update my review from September 14,2000 to let everyone know that I read this book to my daughter - at her request! - every afternoon at naptime and every night at bedtime. Last week, October 4, 2000 she was officially "trained" - consistently using the potty. She's had two accidents, but loves her "big girl" underpants. She still asks me to read "My Big Girl Potty" every night, but now she interjects - "I do that" or "I'm a big girl" - throughout. As I said before this is a gentle introduction to potty training that really worked for us. Thank you.

Favorite Potty Book!
I think we've purchased every potty book there is to have and this one is my daughter's FAVORITE! She calls it the RED potty book and we lost our first copy and had to replace it quickly. It's simple and easy to understand without being condescending or cutesy. When my daughter has an accident, I always say, "That's okay, honey -- children have accidents when they're learning. Remember Ashley in your red potty book?" Then we go read it again. And again. Any of you with toddlers know their fourth most favorite word: 'Gain!

Worth A Look
Both Mommy and Daddy actively participating in Ashley's potty training process. Ashley realistic transitions from diapers to "special big-girl underpants" over time, not instantly. Author Joanna Cole uses questions to draw the child into the story ("Do you wear diapers, too?") as an encouraging parent would. The story concludes with ten common sense tips, such as "Don't rush!" and "Never scold or punish." and "Use a diaper at nap time..."

We have read almost every potty book available on the market as of 9/2003 (over two dozen!). Most fit into two categories: INSTRUCTIONAL books that introduce the skills needed to master the potty; and those that are primarily ENTERTAINING, for children who understand what is supposed to happen on the potty, but need extra time to make it happen.

I think My Big Girl Potty fits more in the INSTRUCTIONAL category for the following reasons:

1) It identifies the purpose of the potty.
2) It specifies bodily functions such as "poop" and "pee."
3) Shows the transition from diapers to big kid underwear.
4) Includes the hand washing step.

For other potty books that are instructional, check out What to Expect When You Use the Potty by Heidi Murkoff or You Can Go to the Potty by Martha Sears.

Great Resource
I purchased this book for my daughter to help in potty training her. Even though she likes 'The Potty Book - For Girls' by Alyssa Satin Capucilli better, she enjoys this book as well. Showing all the stages of potty training including showing Ashley sitting on the potty w/ her clothes on, then removing her diaper, accidents and finally, 'big girl' underwear, it helps little ones to understand the concept of 'going' on the potty. I gave this book 4 stars only in that it's a little more 'wordy' than 'The Potty Book - For Girls' and isn't as colorful but I do recommend it to anyone. ... Read more

Book Description

"Allie the Allergic Elephant" helps children learn about food allergies and how to be a good friend when you can't share snacks. "Allie" explains peanut allergies in a way that parents, teachers, and children themselves can talk about allergies and understand them better. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

From a kid whose been there, done that
awesome book! zeroes in on the key parts of having an allergy! great book to read to little kids. I personally have a life threatening allergy to peanuts and all tree nuts. thank you for your time.

Librarians loved it!
I bought the first edition for my nephew with a peanut allergy. He enjoyed it because it addressed his difficulty in explaining his allergy to his classmates.

I bought 2 copies of the second edition and donated them to elementary schools where I volunteer in the library. Both librarians were excited to receive the book and were anxious to read it to their students. One librarian took the book immediately to the Kindergarten teacher because a student had arrived that day with a peanut allergy.

I like the book because it explains how an allergic child must be "excluded" when it pertains to peanuts, but wants to be "included" in everything else. I can't wait for the author to write more books about other allergies.

Brings Compassion to a Clinical Subject
With three children in my family, all of them know people who can't eat nuts. At first, they think it's wierd. "What? No peanuts? Why can't you eat peanuts?"

Allie helps those with the allergy understand, and Allie brings compassion to those who live with, work with, and play with an allergic child.

As the author of three non-fiction books, I appreciate a good tale. And Allie's tail is precious.

Charming story -- Important message
I purchased this book as a gift for a friend with an allergic grandchild. He told me it was a special delight to read the book together with his grandson. The story is charming, and effectively communicates an important message about acceptance and coping... in a way even a very young child can grasp. The wonderful illustrations (by a gifted young artist) captured the boy's imagination and brought the story to life.

Excellent book for kids with food allergies
I bought the 1st edition over a year ago and the teacher in his classroom has said that the children love it. They like to hear it read to them. They love the pictures! She said after a year it was well used as they play with it alot. A book needs to hold up with kids at this age. I just purchased the 2nd edition feeling that it was different enough to own it. I am glad I did. The pictures have changed a bit and look wonderful, but the message is still excellent and kids can understand it. Most messages are lost with kids at this age when dealing with serious issues such as food allergies. Geat job! Even though the book is 100% focused on peanut allergies, which is why I got it, the rules remains the same with all food allergies in how they relate to other children playing with the children with the food allergy. I would recommend any parent that has a pre-schooler or a child in K-5 or thier school to buy this book! ... Read more

Amazon.com

"I kept wanting it to happen. When it did I remember thinking, 'It'sabout time.'"

"I was worried at first. Then it really wasn't so bad after all."

"I remember my brothers weren't allowed to hit me in the chest anymore. I waskind of pleased about that."

What mysterious condition are these now grown-up girls talking about? Ah, yes,puberty! With scads of personal stories and an abundance of useful, detailedinformation about girls' changing bodies and feelings, author Lynda Madaras andher daughter Area Madaras have expanded their guide for girls on the verge ofchange. First published in 1983, the bestselling classic has been revised andupdated several times over the years to keep up with ever evolving facts andwisdom about puberty in girls. In this third edition, the authors continue theirstraight talk on the menstrual cycle, reproductive organs, breasts, emotionalchanges, puberty in boys, body hair, pimples, masturbation, and all the otherfun, scary, and interesting things that go along with growing up. Filled withanecdotes, illustrations, diagrams, and honest, sensitive, nonjudgmentalinformation for the young girl, the revised edition also addresses the newscientific facts about when a girl actually begins puberty (earlier thanpreviously thought), advice on "female athletic syndrome," eating disorders,unwanted attention because of early development, and information on eatingright, exercise, AIDS, STDs, birth control, and so much more. A welcome,reassuring book for parents and daughters, designed with the understanding thatsome girls and parents will want to read it together, and some will want to readit on their own; without a doubt, though, all will benefit. Got boys?Don't miss What's Happening to MyBody? Book for Boys. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Good info, but better for older readers...
I have to agree somewhat (not completely) with one of the reviewers... This book is not well suited for girls who are nine or ten (my daughter is nine and a half). It's got a lot of good information, but some of the illustrations are too graphic (my daughter found the ones of male genitalia very disturbing, and she is not immature for her age). The age span on this book should be adjusted upwards to more like 12 and up, not 9 to 13.

That being said, this book covers a lot of ground, and for the most part does so well. It has a lot of important information found in books of this type: stages of puberty, signs to look for, the female reproductive cycle, bras, getting one's period, and so on. All these things are presented clearly, although again, I feel they're geared more towards older girls, rather than pre-teens.

All in all this is an ok book, but not excellent, and is not appropriate for the age range it's listed for. Buy this book for a 12 year-old or up, but don't push the envelope with younger girls, they don't need the pressure that such graphically displayed information provides, which can overwhelm them.

All girls should be as lucky as I was...
I am 21 years old now and stumbled upon this page looking for "our bodies, ourselves". When I was about 10 years old my mother gave me this book as a way to help bridge our inability to communicate well on personal topics. It helped me immensly, as well as a few of my girl friends who's mothers (gasp!) never said a word to them about anything they were going through. I had one friend who didn't understand when her mother told her their were "napkins" in the hall closet when she needed them, and that's all she ever said to her daughter. I reccomend that ALL mothers (and fathers, too) give their daughter at least one book like this, in addition to open, frank conversations. There is nothing pornographic about the pictures in this book. They are NOT photographs - they are drawings that are informative, rather than specific examples. Madaras is careful to explain that her illustrations are not what every girl's body looks like - and explains how things can vary. I read this book over and over again when I needed it, and was able to easy navigate to the information I was looking for. One of the most important aspects of this particular book for girls is that is has information about what is going on with their male counterparts, which helps girls feel less insecure when they read about how embarrassing things can be for the boys. I highly reccomend this book to girls 9 and up, but if your daughter is immature for her age, 10 or 11 might be a better age to introduce her to some of the information, as the book deals touches on topics such as sex and AIDS - which are better left to the parents' disgression at that age.

Great
My Mom bought this book for me when i was 12 and it really helped. It answered all of the questions that i wanted to know but was too embarrassed to ask. Plus it had things that other girls my age had writen in. I recomend it to girls 12 and +

ALL A YOUNG GIRL NEEDS IN A BOOK ABOUT BECOMING A WOMAN
This book covers every topic a girl is curious about as she enters puberty, (a few she might not be curious about yet, but will need to know about BEFORE she is twelve. With children becoming sexually active at 13 and not knowing how easily a girl become pregnant and teen AIDS on the rise--this is information that every girl needs to have. Buit are parents ready to let them have it before they need it, so they can be prepared to make informed choices and know why NO is the correct answer???

ONLY FOR PARENTS WHO WANT THEIR DAUGHTERS WELL INFORMED
This book has draeings and diagrams and honest language about body changes and sexuality and it answers many questions that most 9-14 year old girls are thinking. (Many don't ask because they are either too shy or too afraid). Warning, if you think giving children information is going to cause them to be sexually active, don't buy this book. Because it has all the information a preteen could want. ... Read more

Book Description

When Papa Bear tells the cubs why they should never talk to strangers,

Sister begins to view all strangers as evil until Mama brings some common sense

to the problem. "The Bears' rules for safe conduct among strangers are listed

on the last pages, including a rule about the privacy of a bear's body. A good

book to start awareness in young children."--School Library Journal.




... Read more

Reviews (20)

The best book on strangers for young children
I used this book about 6 years ago to help teach my child about "stranger danger". This book helps to teach about strangers without scaring children away from everyone and everything. All the Berenstain Books are definately worth reading to youngsters - they all teach a lesson or two in a very positive, easy to understand way that is suitable for a wide age range. Most of them also make excellent bedtime stories (I didn't think this one was good for bedtime) and often help children to open up about a subject and discuss what they are thinking or feeling. They are also very good First Books for the cild to read as they get older. I highly recommend this and all of the Berenstain Bears books. My child outgrew them and had given them away, so I am now purchasing a few to give as a Christmas present to a co-workers 3 year old who I think will enjoy them as much as my child did.

One of the least paranoia inducing "stranger books"
I have gotten rid of most "don't talk to strangers" books because they are mostly fear inducing. I want my children to use common sense, and this version emphasises that. Sister (gotta love the names :-) ) fears everyone when first told that not all strangers are trustworthy. Mama comes to the rescue with some much needed common sense and moderation. The book concludes with a plausible example of Brother maybe trusting a stranger too much.

A good starting point for working with young, very trusting children, on appropriate interpersonal interactions, and may help prevent the child from fearing even the grocery store clerk.

What about the rest of the strangers?
The book does teach children about what to do with strangers, but the view of strangers is not appropriate. They are all darkened men. A more developmentally-appropriate, anti-bias book would include strangers of all races, class, personality, and gender.

The Berenstain Bears Learn About Strangers
This is a great book for teaching young children about strangers. My son is 5 and really enjoys reading this book over and over again. The content is informative, but not scary. The comparison momma bear makes between strangers and a barrel of apples is so simple and accurate. The simplicity allows the children to understand you never know what is on the inside of an apple or a stranger. A visual key kids are likely to remember.

Learning About Strangers
This is a good book. My 5 year old son enjoyed the story, and the lessons that I wanted to convey about strangers (what is a stranger, stranger rules, etc.) were covered very well. The story shows how one can become too afraid as well as how one can be lured into leaving with a stranger. Children learn to be careful without being paranoid. Children also learn that "telling" is not the same as being a "tattletell".

We have enjoyed all 8 books that we purchased from this collection. ... Read more

Book Description

PREGNANCY AND BIRTH-GOD'S MIRACLE OF CREATION ALL OVER AGAIN.Before I Was Born is the second book in the GOD'S DESIGN FOR SEX series, written to be read with children ages 5-8.With an age-appropriate, straightforward text and informative illustrations, Before I Was Born explains sex as a special gift God gives to a husband and wife and covers su