Essential parenting books for newborns and toddlers
Whether you’ve spent the last nine months planning and preparing for your first child or have toddlers running around your house, parenting can be overwhelming. It’s a journey filled with joy, challenges and endless learning opportunities, but there’s no instruction manual. Fortunately, there are plenty of parenting books available, offering valuable wisdom tailored to the unique needs of newborns and toddlers. Below, you’ll find a curated list of some of our favorite and recommended books to help you stock your shelves and navigate the parenting journey with confidence.
When searching for books on child development, choose from credible books written by professionals who have dedicated their careers studying child development. It’s equally important to choose books that are easy to understand or approachable and leave you feeling empowered rather than judged. Keep in mind that not all advice will align with every family, so it's alright to approach it with a bit of skepticism.
“What To Expect - the First Year” by Heidi Murkoff
A world’s best-selling pregnancy and parenting, What to Expect: The First Year by Heidi Murkoff is an indispensable guide for new parents embarking on the parenting journey. With trusted advice from parents and medical professionals, Murkoff navigates parents through the exciting and sometimes overwhelming first year of a baby's life. From newborn essentials to developmental milestones, feeding, sleeping, and more, this resource answers the myriad of questions and concerns that come up during the first year and ensures parents feel informed and supported every step of the way.
“Raising Good Humans” by Hunter Clarke Fields
“Raising Good Humans” is a guide for parents who are navigating the complexities of raising children in today’s world. The author, Hunter Clarke Fields shares her wisdom and advice on fostering resilience and emotional intelligence in our little ones. By creating a nurturing environment where kindness and empathy thrive, parents can build a strong bond and foundation with their children. This book not only helps parents to raise their kids, but also helps them to discover strategies for cultivating respectful communication, effective conflict resolution and reflective listening, which can be beneficial for their own personal growth and development.
"The Happiest Baby on the Block" by Dr. Harvey Karp
Dr. Harvey Karp's book provides invaluable insights into soothing techniques for newborns. Drawing from his experience as a pediatrician and child development expert, Karp introduces the concept of the "fourth trimester" and shares simple yet effective methods to calm fussy babies and promote better sleep. With practical advice and gentle strategies, this book is a must-read for new parents navigating the early days of parenthood.
"The Montessori Toddler" by Simone Davies
A comprehensive guide for parents and caregivers, “The Montessori Toddler” by Simone Davies is the perfect book for those who want to apply the Montessori principles in their toddler’s everyday life. Davies provides explanations and practical tips to help you understand your toddler’s developmental needs and create an environment that encourages independence, curiosity, and self-discovery. This book covers everything from setting up a Montessori-inspired home to promoting positive habits and respectful communication. This book will give you the tools to confidently support your child’s growth and development with joy and confidence.
"The Whole-Brain Child" by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
Understanding the developing brain can profoundly impact our approach to parenting. In "The Whole-Brain Child," Siegel and Bryson explore the latest neuroscience research and translate it into practical strategies for raising emotionally intelligent and resilient children. From managing tantrums to promoting emotional regulation, this insightful book equips parents with tools to support their child's cognitive, social, and emotional development. With its accessible language and actionable advice, "The Whole-Brain Child" offers a holistic framework for nurturing thriving young minds.
"Parenting with Love and Logic" by Foster Cline and Jim Fay
As toddlers start to become more independent, it's essential to establish a positive and respectful parenting approach. "Parenting with Love and Logic" offers practical techniques that can help you establish clear boundaries, teach responsibility, and foster healthy decision-making skills in young children. Through empathy, consequences, and shared control, Cline and Fay empower parents to raise self-reliant and resilient individuals while maintaining a loving connection.
As you dive into the knowledge in these essential parenting books, remember that your journey as a parent is unique. Whether comforting your crying newborn or guiding a curious toddler, remember that you are not alone. The insights and advice offered in these books are here to assist you, providing guidance and reassurance along with your support system. Just like our Doona Car Seat & Stroller seamlessly adapts to your needs and the Liki Trike can foster independence, our commitment at Doona is to stand by you through every twist and turn of parenthood.
