Course to stress safety, prevention
Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services
Inuvik (Jan 19/01) - A babysitting course is about to start up at the Inuvik Centennial Library.
The course is being put on by Public Health in Inuvik and will run Wednesdays at 4 p.m., starting Jan. 24.
Barb Lennie, nurse in charge of Public Health in Inuvik, said the course consists of six parts, but that it may be taught over eight, depending on how quickly the participants pick it up.
"It's really geared for kids that are 12 years old and we're going a little bit younger than that," Lennie said.
"The reality in Inuvik is kids start babysitting when they're much younger than 12. By 12, they're just about finished."
Lennie said much of the course will cover first aid and safety tips, such as what to do if a child is choking or if there's a fire. She said prevention is stressed.
Also covered will be the various stages of a child's development.
"We want them to think of it as a job, you know, not something you can do if you don't have anything better to do, but as a job, and as a noble job," Lennie said.
Those wishing to sign up can do so at the library and at Sir Alexander Mackenzie school. Lennie said a lot of interest has been expressed so far, and that a second session may be offered if need be.
An assessment was done to determine what local parents expect from babysitters. Lennie said one consequence is that the course will not cover bathing babies, as most parents don't ask for that anyway.
"Primarily what parents will tell you is they want their kids looked after safe and happy."
