The More You Know II

Josh and I have been reading a fair number of books on raising kids. I think our idea was to find out what was out there and then pick and choose what felt the best for us. I've come to believe that each home and parenting style is different and to each his own, since some things work for others and that exact same thing doesn't work for others.

Here are our favorite reads so far:

1. The Mission of Motherhood - Sally Clarkson

My sister gave me this book and said that another mom, whom I look up to in parenting, gave it to her and said this book is what she raised her children from. That alone lent it enough credibility since her and her kids are top notch. After reading it I can tell you this book has changed my perspective on motherhood and helped me to hone my own philosophy and course of thought and action as we begin this parenting journey. I would recommend it to every mother on the planet.

2. Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child - Marc Weissbluth
It seems this is a very popular among moms and reviewers on Amazon. Although, in my opinion, the book isn't that well written, I think the ideas resonated with me. We do see the benefits of helping to guide children to healthy sleep patterns (it affects their temperament, ability to learn, interact, and think/respond rationally!).

3. Mind in the Making - Ellen Galinsky
Josh found this one and he loved it (if not for the chapter of research studies backing up the studies alone). A lot of the concepts he had already been throwing around so it was good affirmation for him and for me. Small but significant ways that you raise your child will have a huge impact on their potential development in seven specific areas. I haven't asked him, but I would guess Josh would say this book has, so far, had the most profound affect on him.

4. Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy - Mayo Clinic
Anything and everything you need to know about pregnancy and the year after birth. We found that there's a lot of information online and sometimes it's hard to decipher fact from fiction. This book cleared up all those questions. Plus, there's not much you can't find in here.

5. The Happiest Baby on the Block -Harvey Karp
Another widely popular train of thought in today's world. I haven't read it yet but it's on my list because "the more you know" I'm not sure how much we'll use this method but if we're having issues I doubt I'm gonna regret having this in my backup arsenal.

6. Bringing Up Girls - James Dobson
My friend told me about this book and I'm in the middle of it right now. TBD.

We have several others in our queue, but Josh and I would love to hear if you had any parenting books that have helped you. We are always looking to keep learning. As the popular slogan (and now me) used to say, "The More You Know".