Baby Think It Over: A Lesson in Parenting Teens Won't Forget!

Baby Think It Over is a lifelike newborn doll used to educate young people about the realities of parenting and childcare. The doll contains a computer which causes it to "wake up" and demand care at random intervals - from 1½ to 4½ hours - around the clock. The young "parent" must provide 10-30 minutes of care each time the baby wakes. The computer records any incidents of abuse or neglect.

Where Can I Borrow a Baby Think It Over Doll?

Planned Parenthood houses these dolls in our New Haven office.  Arrangements can be made for training and pick up in other parts of the state.  The weight of the doll makes shipping costs prohibitive, therefore mailing services are not offered for this tool.

How is the Doll Used?

Baby Think It Over is not effective when used for a short period of time. In fact, because the doll is so loveable, short-term use is found to be counterproductive!  Ideally, a period of three days and three nights or, at minimum, two days and three nights, is required for the effective use of this tool.

Who Can Borrow the Doll?

This teaching tool is available for loan to professional educators who are willing to take responsibility for the doll and its use. School personnel, social workers and other professionals who are working with young people have found it useful as either a general educational tool or in an attempt to provide perspective to a particular young person. Because Baby Think It Over is an expensive piece of equipment ($450), the doll is not loaned directly to teens. It is sturdy and not easily damaged, but it is not a toy. Professionals who borrow the doll will be trained on proper usage and are expected to mentor (and monitor) the student "parent."

How Do I Borrow the Doll?

1. The borrower must schedule loan of the doll for an agreed upon period of time.  Loan is subject to availability.
2. The borrower must be trained in proper use and care of the doll, including ways to make the experience effective, troubleshooting tips, etc. This training is provided by a PPC Educator and takes about 45 minutes.
3. The borrower must sign an agreement to return the doll in good working order and to reimburse PPC  for any missing or damaged items.
4. The borrower must pick up and return the doll. PPC does not loan Baby Think It Over by mail.

What is Included with the Doll?

The borrower receives the diapered doll, a key for the battery box, two tending probes, a copy of the Operating Instructions, Student Workbook and Teacher’s Manual.  All of these are to be returned with the doll. The borrower supplies the 4 C  batteries required to make the doll function, and any infant care materials.

What is the Fee for Borrowing the Doll?

The cost is $40.00 per week per doll. Payment is expected at the time of the pick up. Professionals may arrange to be billed. 

What if I Have a Problem Using the Doll?

We are happy to help with any problem you may encounter.  Phone the Education & Training Coordinator at PPC’s State Administrative Office.  We can be reached at (203) 865-5158.
 

Do You Have Other Questions About Baby Think It Over?

Email us, or phone the Education & Training Coordinator at (203) 865-5158.