A Collaborative Effort With the World's Leading Communication Experts

New York, NY (February 15, 2002) -- Answering 101 of the most pressing questions facing today's parents and caregivers, Understanding Children is a guidebook for the 21st century that clarifies information, advises on action and empowers parents and caregivers to make the most informed decisions about caring for children through the early critical years of life. It is developed through a unique combination of Civitas, a not-for-profit communication group that provides educational tools for millions of parents and caregivers, Richard Saul Wurman's publishing company TOP, a network of leading experts who specialize in making complex information easily understandable, and Johnson & Johnson.* For the first time, one comprehensive guidebook presents the views of the world's leading child development experts on the broadest range of topics most important to today's parents and caregivers.

Understanding Children tackles such formidable questions as:

• How do I help my child develop good sleep habits?
• What role does nature versus nurture play in brain development?
• How does play affect my child's social development?
• What happens when a woman goes into labor?
• What makes some children shy?
• What products do I need for baby's first year?
• What type of childcare is best for my situation?
• How do mothers and fathers differ?
• How does violence affect children?
• What do I need to know about discussing adoption?

"In spite of an abundance of information, parents and caregivers are still overwhelmed and confused," says Suzanne Muchin, CEO of Civitas. "A recent national benchmark survey conducted by Civitas revealed that there was a significant knowledge gap about child development among adults, which has very real implications for American society. We felt compelled to address this pressing need with Understanding Children."

Richard Saul Wurman adds, "Our focus is getting marvelous information into the hands of parents and caregivers who are joyous but also terrified about raising their children. Understanding Children relieves this anxiety by bringing forward good information that inspires dialogue and empowers them to be the best they can be."

"Good parenting is not a science, nor is it a one-size-fits all formula. We need to support parents and other caregivers with the knowledge, advice and understanding that support their most basic instincts to love, touch, hold and talk to their babies," says Ralph S. Larsen, Chairman and CEO, Johnson & Johnson.

Understanding Children cuts through the clutter and clarifies the most important information for todayıs parents in a way that is easily accessible and fun to read and discuss.

"Who would have thought that a book on child care could be a page turner?" says Wurman. "This breakthrough project would not have been possible without my unique collaboration with Civitas combined with the vision, enthusiasm and support of Johnson & Johnson.*"

Taking the Complex and Making it Understandable
Understanding Children presents a communication style reflective of the 21st century. Each spread includes the "big" question and answers supported by theories, explanations, and visually appealing charts, diagrams, illustrations and photographs. The bottom one third of each spread contains action items -- things that caregivers can actually do, as well as relevant books, Web sites and other helpful contacts.

Where to Find the Book
Understanding Children is available at bookstores nationwide, specialty toy stores and on-line at places such as BabyCenter.com. The books sell at retail for $25.00.

* Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc., a member of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies, contributed to and supported this project.