In Defense of Children: Understanding the Rights, Needs and Interests of the Child

Nazario, a law professor and practicing attorney in San Francisco, and several colleagues here assemble a vital resource guide. They cover seemingly all areas of children's rightsthe right to financial support, to be fed, to health care, etc.from infancy onward, even discussing situations that arise when grown offspring leave and then return to the parental home. Charts, statistics, sample legal forms and the like amplify data provided in the well-organized, accessible sections on infant care, finding a responsible child-care center, helping teenagers in trouble with the law or threatened by drug/alcohol addiction, questionable sexual relations and other problems. Cases of abused minors are documented; lists of organizations that offer aid in a variety of crises are appended. This is an essential book for those involved with the welfare of the young.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The co-authors of this book have backgrounds in law, medicine, and social work. While the book's primary focus is on the legal rights of parents and children, there is also a wealth of general advice on parenting. Beginning with the decision to have children, the book moves chronologically through early childhood to teenage years and the eventual departure from home. There are also chapters on families, schooling, trouble with the law, and governmental assistance programs. The clearly presented material is dotted with names, addresses, and phone numbers of additional sources, and each chapter has a summary checklist. Highly recommended. Jack Ray, Loyola/Notre Dame Lib., Baltimore
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.