Book Reviews for New Moms and Dads

How To Survive Your Baby’s First Year

By Hundreds of Happy Moms and Dads Who Did

And some things to avoid, from a few parents who barely made it

As parents, we’ve all “been there, done that, got the scars.” So often we talk with friends who are also parents and share triumphs, failures, and the inevitable foibles of parenthood. In true Hundreds of HeadsTM style, How to Survive Your Baby’s First Year is a compilation of parents worst, best, and funniest advice for parents – from the novice to the most experienced. Useful information for fathers like “Six Steps for a Peaceful Pregnancy” or tips on how to deal with middle-of-the-night feedings are sure to be well received by both parents. Common sense rules for moms will come in handy too: when to buy maternity clothes, how to deal with crying (when you feel like crying yourself), breastfeeding and post-baby weight loss are helpful to the new mom who needs some reassurance. All in all this handy guide is the perfect book for any new parent who is looking for some light hearted advice. Published by Hundreds of Heads Publishing, Inc. and available at bookstores nationwide.

Feed Me I’m Yours 30th Anniversary Edition

By Vicki Lansky

Anyone with kids knows feeding them nutritious food they are likely to eat is a challenge. The 30th edition of Feed Me I’m Yours by Vicky Lansky is a sure-fire way to keep the kids happy, well fed and give parents the peace of mind of knowing they have given their kids the best meals they can. Since it was first released in 1975, this handy cookbook has sold over three million copies, and has been passed down from mother to child. Author Vicky Lansky has appeared on many TV shows like Today, Oprah and Regis and Cathy Lee. Recipes for everything from baby foods, fun meal ideas for older kids, holiday fare and seasonal favorites make this book a valuable resource. The final chapter is a potpourri of helpful tips: how to feed a child who is ill, first aid tips and what to do if your child is choking or poisoned. Published by Meadowbrook Press, Feed Me I’m Yours is available in bookstores nationwide.

New Dad’s Survival Guide: Man to Man Advice For First Time Fathers

By Scott Mactavish

Many men are stumped by the role of fatherhood. It is uncharted territory for many men and they often need help. Enter Scott Mactavish. He’s not a psychologist or a doctor, he is just your average guy who has been a father a few times and learned a few things along the way. Refreshingly funny, this honest, tongue in cheek commentary is written military-style and has more than a few pearls of wisdom buried within. Chapters like Preparations, Birth and Ancillary Duties will keep dads entertained as well as give them some valuable parenting (and husbanding) advice. Unique and fun, the New Dad’s Survival Guide is the perfect gift for the fathers and father-to-be in your life. Published by Little, Brown and Company and available at bookstores nationwide.

Good Night, Sleep Tight

By Kim West with Joanne Kenen

It is estimated that 20 to 25 percent of children have sleep difficulties. That’s a lot of kids. And a lot of tired parents. If you find yourself in this category and do not have the heart to let your child “cry it out,” Kim West’s gentle alternative may be just the thing for you and your child. West understands that while many of these sleep problems are physical or emotional, she maintains most toddlers who have problems sleeping simply have not learned to soothe themselves alone in their cribs. A mother herself, West understands the havoc sleep disturbances can cause on families, and has developed a way to combat them gently, lovingly and with a minimum of tears. Called The Sleep Lady by the families she works with, Good Night, Sleep Tight offers an innovative approach to helping babies and toddlers go to sleep, stay asleep and wake up happy. Published by CDS Books and available in bookstores nationwide.

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