The volume is intended to help mentally retarded adults learn how to interact with infants and children in a caring and safe manner. The manual may be used by counselors or trainers in one-to-one or small group sessions. Each unit includes line drawings to illustrate proper techniques; the drawings have been designed for the trainees' use and are capable of being used by non-readers as well as readers. Six major areas of child care are addressed: holding (support of head, sitting, crawling, pulling to stand); feeding (breast and bottle feeding, finger foods, use of spoon); diapering (safety); bathing (preparation); dressing (preparation, undressing); and playing (looking at, reaching for, self-exploration). Appended material includes a listing of equipment and supplies for the parenting program and resources for infant toys and games. (CL)