Book Review (you gotta have this one)

I've been reading Focus on the Family's Complete book of Baby and Child Care. Do not pass go, do not collect $200, and buy this book. Right now.

Heh.

OK, maybe not. But it's so good!

Someone sent me a copy of "What to Expect When You're Expecting" while I was pregnant with Hannah. About two chapters in, panic was rising, and I put it down and picked it up again only out of desire for more punishment. As far as I can tell, those books (the children's ones too - which other people gave me) go something like this: "You have a headache. It could be this rare liver disorder and you'll be dead in two weeks, along with your baby. ...Or, maybe you need to drink some water. You better call your doctor." They are SO fear based!

Maybe that's why this book is so refreshing to me. It addresses physical, disciplinary, spiritual, and relational issues all in one place, for pre-birth through preteen. They can't afford to be as thorough as you might like because it's just one book rather than a series, but it sure answered lots of my questions. It also cross-references things, like if you're reading about disciplinary problems, it might refer you to a section about health/nutrition/sleep to help you figure out what needs to be done for your child. There is also lots of encouragement for weary parents.

Highly recommended. And actually, Hannah and I have had a much better week this week because of some things I've been missing that this book reminded me of. I'm weaning Audrey, so she's just cranky, but that's another story. :)