The Heart of Oklahoma Chapter of the American Red Cross will offer Babysitting Boot Camp to youth ages 11 to 15 during the holiday school break this year, Dec. 29 and 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"Babysitting Boot Camp is our babysitting course with adult, infant and child CPR added," said Robin Outland, Health and Safety Director for the Chapter.

In addition to being certified in adult, infant, and child CPR and first aid, participants will learn babysitting skills such as:

· Supervising children and infants.

· Performing basic child care skills such as diapering, feeding, and dressing.

· Choosing safe, age-appropriate games and toys.

· Handling bedtime and discipline issues.

· Identifying safety hazards and preventing injuries.

· Communicating effectively with parents.

· Finding and interviewing for babysitting jobs.

The cost of the two-day course is $85 and includes lunch both days. Participants will receive a babysitter's book bag which includes a first aid kit, a babysitter's emergency reference guide, a Babysitter's Training CD Rom and handbook. Participants also will receive certification in adult, infant and child CPR and first aid, which alone typically costs $60.

American Red Cross Health and Safety courses help finance all Chapter services, including disaster assistance and emergency assistance to the military. For more information or to enroll in the course, call Outland at 321-0591 or log on to www.redcross.org.