MDI Hospital is offering a Safe Sitter Class on Monday, July 9th from 10AM to 4PM at the Lisa Stewart Women’s Health Center. The class will be held in the Wolf Conference Room on the 2nd floor at 330 Main Street in Bar Harbor.

The one-day class is designed to teach students in grades 6 through 8 a variety of safety skills that they can put to use when they are home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. “First aid and rescue skills such as choking rescue and CPR are often students’ favorite part of the class,” says instructor Lisa Marie Parkin, RN, BSN. “Students also learn a system to help them assess and respond to injuries and illnesses.”

The class offers students the opportunity to learn what to do when faced with dangers such as power failures or weather emergencies, how to prevent unsafe situations, and tips to manage behavior that will help them stay in control of themselves and the children in their care. Also included is education on the ages and stages of child development and diapering practice. “This class also teaches business skills, such as the ability to screen jobs, discuss fees, and greet employers, which will set students up for success now and in the future,” says Parkin. Students practice these skills through various role playing activities.

The class fee is $40. Students should bring a sack lunch. To register, contact Lisa Marie Parkin, RN, BSN, at 207-288-5082 x1444 or lisa.parkin@mdihospital.org. Early registration is recommended as classes fill quickly.

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