Pregnancy and childbirth (found 8080 titles)

What to Expect When You're Expecting: 4th Edition

Authors: Heidi Murkoff, Sharon Mazel
Publisher: Workman Publishing Company
Publication date: 2008-04-10
ISBN: 0761148574
Pages: 616
Rating:
Price: $14.95

Announcing a brand new, cover-to-cover revision of America's pregnancy bible. What to Expect When You're Expecting is a perennial New York Times bestseller and one of USA Today's 25 most influential books of the past 25 years. It's read by more than 90% of pregnant women who read a pregnancy book--the most iconic, must-have book for parents-to-be, with over 14.5 million copies in print.

Now comes the Fourth Edition, a new book for a new generation of expectant moms--featuring a new look, a fresh perspective, and a friendlier-than-ever voice. It's filled with the most up-to-date information reflecting not only what's new in pregnancy, but what's relevant to pregnant women. Heidi Murkoff has rewritten every section of the book, answering dozens of new questions and including loads of new asked-for material, such as a detailed week-by-week fetal development section in each of the monthly chapters, an expanded chapter on pre-conception, and a brand new one on carrying multiples. More comprehensive, reassuring, and empathetic than ever, the Fourth Edition incorporates the most recent developments in obstetrics and addresses the most current lifestyle trends (from tattooing and belly piercing to Botox and aromatherapy). There's more than ever on pregnancy matters practical (including an expanded section on workplace concerns), physical (with more symptoms, more solutions), emotional (more advice on riding the mood roller coaster), nutritional (from low-carb to vegan, from junk food–dependent to caffeine-addicted), and sexual (what's hot and what's not in pregnant lovemaking), as well as much more support for that very important partner in parenting, the dad-to-be.

Overflowing with tips, helpful hints, and humor (a pregnant woman's best friend), this new edition is more accessible and easier to use than ever before. It's everything parents-to-be have come to expect from What to Expect... only better.

---

Amazon.com Exclusive
An Essay from Heidi Murkoff
What to Expect started with information--or, actually, lack of information. In fact, when I found out I was expecting for the first time--I didn't have the slightest idea of what to expect. And back then, it wasn't as easy to find out what to expect as you'd think. I created What to Expect When You're Expecting because I couldn't find the answers to my questions or the reassurance for my worries that I was searching for in the pregnancy books I read (and believe me, I read plenty). I was a mom on a mission--a mission to help other moms and dads worry less and enjoy their pregnancies (and their babies, and their toddlers) more. And I've been on that mission ever since.

So what sent me back to recreate What to Expect--for a fourth time? Today, there's definitely no lack of information on pregnancy. In fact there's more information than ever before (a quick online search of pregnancy or a glance at pages and pages of pregnancy and parenting options right here on Amazon will clue you in on that). But often what's still hard to find is the right kind of information. Information that's accurate yet empathetic, reassuring yet realistic--that empowers you, but doesn't overwhelm or confuse you, that guides you but doesn't dictate to you. And it's not just about the right information, it's about information that's presented in the way that's most helpful--easy to access, easy to digest, easy to use. It's about information that makes your pregnant life less stressful--more enjoyable, and, well, easier.

The fourth edition is a new What To Expect for a new generation of readers--you!--and I'm excited to say it's the best What To Expect yet. It's packed with all new information, of course (since things tend to change quickly in the baby-making and baby-delivering business--something you're probably all too aware of already if you've made more than one trip to the birthing room). But it doesn't only take into account what's new in obstetrics and what's new in pregnancy; it takes into account what's relevant to pregnant women now. Lifestyle. Working. Eating on the run. Juggling the pregnant life with real life. Keeping up with relationships. Birthing options that are family friendly and pregnancy care that incorporates the best that complimentary and alternative medicine has to offer. Managing multiples (which more and more moms are carrying). Sorting out the information from the misinformation--the reality from the hype, fact from Internet legend.

The fourth edition also takes into account how you likely use books these days, so the format is even more accessible than ever. More geared to in-the-moment, find-it-in-a-flash reading.

Most important of all, the fourth edition celebrates pregnancy. I have a passion for pregnancy, and always have. I love moms, I love dads, and I love babies. But everything about this fourth edition from the happy, excited mom-to-be on the cover, proudly caressing her beautiful belly and its even more beautiful contents, to the adorable week-by-week description of the making of your baby, to the positive (yet realistic), mom-to-mom tone throughout--this fourth edition is not just an explanation of those 9 amazing (though often bewildering) months you have ahead of you. It's a celebration of them.

What to Expect When You're Expecting fourth edition is everything moms and dads have come to expect from What to Expect... only better. And I can't wait to start sharing it with you.

I guess you can say--I'm a proud mama all over again.

--Heidi Murkoff

---

More to Explore

What to Expect: Eating Well When You're Expecting

What to Expect the First Year

The What to Expect Pregnancy Journal & Organizer

---

Customes reviews 209

A very complete and reassuring book (2010-03-11)

I usually do not write reviews but I felt I had to do it for this book : when I read the bad reviews about it, I wonder if we really had the same book in hand ? For me it was a mine of information and above all, a mine of reassuring tips and advices. I'm the type of person who worries about all and everything. I got this book for my first pregnancy and it helped me getting started and understanding the pregnancy step by step.

It is much less a catalog of awful things than other books such as "your pregnancy week by week", for instance - that, in a funny way, readers that actually disliked "what to expect" preferred. In a funny way, because for each week, you have about three pages about you and the baby, and the rest for what can go wrong, full chart of what substances will do to your baby, money concerns, it even talks about tuberculosis !! Personnally, I realy disliked "week by week" as, after every chapter, I felt I had read more about problems than about the pregnancy. I did not have this impression with "what to expect".

I got very worried at the beginning of my pregnancy because I'm older (37) and was experiencing cramping and no morning sickness. In at least 4 places in "what to expect" they explain this is perfectly OK and normal and that this is not necessairly bad unless associated with other symptoms.
I also had a miscarriage - and the book helped me cope with it in a wonderful way. It told me more than my own doctor... I actually found that it is written in a way that leaves room for everyone, every taste, every reaction, without judging nor condescending as others have said.

Honestly I have few usage of a book that would NOT tell me the truth abouth what to expect : the various pregnancy symptoms, the procedures, what can go wrong. In other books I got they do not talk about "normal cramping" - and I would have begun to worry about not reading about it. This is the exact reason WHY I got this book - so that I can find most of the answers that I'm looking for. And if there is something to be looked at in more detail, there is always your practitioner, and the internet. And let's face it : pregnancy is not a piece of cake. I do not need a book enhancing how wonderful time it is... I need a book that is practical and matter-of-factly.

Actually I found strange all the reviews of hate - as if the readers had developped a personal relationship with the book itself. After reading the book, I find most of the reviews exagerated - this is of course my own take at it ;). I guess people find in there what they want to find... maybe the style in which it is written is not the cup of tea of everybody. Personnally it did not prevent me from getting the information that I was looking for without getting emotional over it.

A few excerpts of the book that answer some concerns of other reviewers :

Reader : "it was so discouraging to be reading the guilt-inducing message that I might be denying my baby something because I was gagging on my spinach". Extracts :
- page 89 : "there is a very important point to keep in mind as you embark on making a diet change for the better :what's presented in this chapter is the ideal, the best possible plan for eating when you're expecting. Something you should strive for, certainly, but nothing you should stress over (especially early in pregnancy) [...] "
- page 92 : a full "No more guilt" section...

Reader : "You know what it says in the index? "Mood swings: see depression."
This is absolutely not true. Tere are two pages on mood swings, one on panick attacks, and it explains why and how to cope with it and how your husband can cope with yours... the index actually says : mood swings : 162-164 ; and DHA/Omega 3 ; and thyroid condition; father's ; spouse coping with your ; see also : baby blues, depression, emotions

Reader : "This book is full of information unfortunately, it is all the scary information."
Well, I think the contrary. The scary information is actually regrouped at the end of the book, in a chapter called "managing a complicated pregnancy". The introduction to the chapter reads : "If you've had a problem-free pregnancy so far, though, this need-to-know chapter is not for you (you don't need to know any of it). Most women sail through pregnancy and childbirth without any complications. While information is definitey empowering when you need it, reading about all the things that could go wrong when they're not going wrong is only going to stress you out - and for no good reason. Skip it, and save yourself some unneeded worry."
By the way, this is the same disclaimer this reader is talking about here :
Reader : "I also hated that the miscarriage section had a big disclaimer warning pregnant women not to read it unless they actually had had a miscarriage, because the knowledge alone that miscarriage could happen would be so emotionally devastating to her that she couldn't handle it."
I call this an far-fetched interpretation of what is actually written.

Reader : "...was advised to have an amniocentesis. The language in "What to Expect" emphasizes: 1. The large size of the needle, 2. The risks of the procedure, and 3. Pain"
I think you read what you want to read. These facts were not "emphasized" but merely described. And these ARE the facts. Would you prefer a book stating that the needle is nothing to notice, that the procedure has no risks and there is no pain ? You would call that book a liar...

"Although it explains procedures, it does not emphasize a pregnant woman's rights to refuse those procedures if she chooses, and take ownership of her medical care during this crucial time."
Again I do not think this is true. Of course if you jump directly to the paragraph talking about amniocentesis, there is nothing there. But there are some caveats in a lot of other places, particularly in the few pages preceding the description of the invasive procedures. For instance :
- page 59 : "for those whose concerns represent more than normal expectant-parent jitters, the benefits of prenatal diagnosis can far outweigh the risks."
- page 63 : (talking about screening which is a blood test) : " once you have that information, you can decide, together with your practitioner, whether you want to undergo diagnostic testing". page 64 (same) : "the major risk of the test is that a positive result may lead to follow-up procedures that present greater risks. Before you consider taking any action on the basis of prenatal screening, be sre an experienced physician or genetic counselor has evaluated the results." (follow the descriptions of various procedures including amniocentesis)

Anyway, I will just stop here, it was just an illustration of what people disliked vs what was really written. Try to borrow the book or have a peak inside here or at a library to get an idea of whether it's right or wrong for you. It was definitely right for me. Every pregnancy is different... everybody is different.

Full Disclosure would be nice (2010-03-01)

It didn't say that there was writing on the inside cover of the book - otherwise it was fine

What to expect? Horrible things! (2010-02-20)

As a birth doula, I understand that the very best way to approach your pregnancy and birth is with a calm attitude. Even if a problem arises or you choose a medical intervention, remaining calm and collected is key to enjoying pregnancy and childbirth, also to remain in control of the experience. Unfortunately, What to Expect does the opposite. It makes women and their partners literally freak out about every little inconsistency with "textbook" information. According to this book, what you should expect are TERRIBLE THINGS. Which is the absolute WORST way to view your body as it goes through the wonderful changes during pregnancy and childbirth. As alternatives, I would suggest "Pregnancy Childbirth and the Newborn" by Penny Simkin, the "Our Bodies Ourselves: Pregnancy and Birth," or "The Pregnancy Book" by Dr. Sears. Same information in these books, but a far more positive outlook on your birth!

Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide (medically updated)
Our Bodies, Ourselves: Pregnancy and Birth
The Pregnancy Book: Month-by-Month, Everything You Need to Know From America's Baby Experts

Good reference. (2010-02-13)

This is a good reference for when situations arise. Read it in about two hours.

The cute-ification of the writing upstages the value of the book (2010-02-08)

Pregnancy is an exciting time and it's good to have fun with it, but the 4th edition takes the most simple descriptions and turns them into terms 15 year olds use. Sperm is routinely referred to as "the guys", and the following is taken from page 8, "Knowing when the Big O (ovulation) occurs is key when doing the Baby Dance (aka trying to conceive). Here are a few ways to help you pin down the big day--and pin each other down for baby-making activities."
I will only use this until my new pregnancy book arrives at which point this is going to a book drive.

How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

Authors: Adele Faber, Elaine Mazlish
Publisher: Harper Paperbacks
Publication date: 1999-10-01
ISBN: 0380811960
Pages: 286
Rating:
Price: $15.95

Outline How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk is an excellent communication tool kit based on a series of workshops developed by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish. Faber and Mazli

Customes reviews 232

Good book with good ideas (2010-03-12)

I was told about this book as good and i can agree more. It has exercises to go over and use them in your personal situations with your kid.

Everyone should read this (2010-03-09)

This book gave me lots of new ways of dealing with my child. Before that I felt like I was sometimes beating my head against a wall. It gives you lots of different ways to deal with your child by showing him/her respect most of all & not just barking orders, which always backfires on me anyway. Not everything will work all the time but when it doesn't there's usually another strategy you can use.

wonderful for the experienced and unexperienced communicator (2010-03-07)

Well written easy read about real communication between parent and child.
Great for the novice and experienced communicator. Highly recommend.

How to talk....to people (2010-03-04)

Ah, the parents' condundrum: How to treat children respectfully and also get them to LISTEN? to Cooperate? They are not mini-adults, so they don't think about things the same way we do. It is not my goal to have my children "obey-without-question;" it is my goal to raise critical thinkers! But it is nonetheless essential that children obey without question at times -- with my very young children, 2 and 3 at the time of this review, safety issues in particular are hot buttons.

I believe in modeling desired behavior. Being raised in a more authoritarian-styled household, I found myself searching for ways to get children to listen without becoming a spanker, a yeller or a nag, because I think all of those things model negative behavior. But on the flip side, I can't have kids who grab toys or who run in the parking lot or say "no" and run away when it's time to leave.

I'd read Unconditional Parenting: Moving from Rewards and Punishments to Love and Reason and liked the general philosophy, but needed actual tactics for real-life scenarios and that's what I found from this book! Simple, concise examples for how to present things objectively and help children learn to assess and make GOOD decisions! Great examples of how to correct without becoming critical or nagging!

I constantly receive comments on my children's polite behavior when they interact with other people and other children. They are not perfect, but we continue to work/practice to treat others kindly and respectfully. In my experience, this type of approach yields individuals who are empathetic and compassionate and who are internally-motivated to treat others well instead of doing it because they fear punishment. I think the best way to teach others about respect is by demonstrating respect FOR them, especially in the parent-child relationship where one individual has so much authority over the other. If you agree with that philosophy, then this book has tools that you will use again and again.

The best book on parenting ever--even for kid with LD (2010-02-25)

I have two kids, one of whom was challenging developmentally. This book gave me the language to work with him so that he could learn to help himself. He has grown into an extremely sensitive pre-teen, a joy to be around.

When I was desperate with my children, a friend handed me this book. I'm the kind of person who tends to not like parenting books and I though the comics were stupid looking. Lo and behold, when I started reading this book, it literally changed my life. The telling incident came when I was stuck on the tarmac of an airport. My anxious and antsy child had already been sitting for three hours. The plane, now landed and waiting to taxi for deplaning, was getting hot in the Florida sun. He started to explode. Thanks to this book, I could "talk" to my almost pre-verbal kid. I handed him the barf bag from the seat in front of me and a pen and I said, "I can see you're uncomfortable. Draw me how you feel." And boy did he draw! He could finally express himself. The situation defused instantly and I really understood--and he felt understood.

During the visit with his cousins, I used the techniques in the book to help him figure out strategy for dealing with group situation. Over time, I used every technique in the book.

After asking permission of parents, I've bought this book and handed it to them, just as my friend handed the book to me.

My challenging (and challenged LD child) has grown into a lovely pre-teen, gentle and understood, thanks to the techniques in this book.

1-2-3 Magic: Effective Discipline for Children 2-12

Authors: Thomas W. Phelan
Publisher: ParentMagic, Inc.
Publication date: 2004-02-01
ISBN: 1889140163
Pages: 224
Rating:
Price: $14.95

Addressing the task of disciplining children ages 2 through 12 without arguing, yelling, or spanking, this program offers easy-to-follow steps to immediately manage troublesome behavior with reason, patience, and compassion. Parents and teachers learn how to encourage and respect children's growing independence with 10 strategies for building self-esteem. Also discussed are the three most important qualities for parents or teachers to exhibit in order to foster competence in kids. Tips are included on how to prevent homework arguments, make mealtimes more enjoyable, conduct effective family meetings, and encourage children to start doing their household chores. This award-winning program discusses the importance of establishing and maintaining a home or classroom with fair and consistent discipline. This revised edition includes suggestions on how to avoid over-parenting, build children's social skills, and apply the program within mental health agencies and classrooms.

Customes reviews 341

Sound, practical advice (2010-02-21)

Using real life situations Phelan gives us straight forward, simple techniques that will demand perseverance and perhaps resourcefulness. I was leery when the author delved into the area of psychoanalysis. Also, I don't agree with his "no dessert or treat" for a punishment. This implies one food as being more important than others. And, he frequently points to ADD and others, as battlegrounds. I believe this to be an excuse; what young boy doesn't have it. And I was surprised by the "no spanking" rule. I don't know how you can rule it out though I agree when used in excess it loses its effectiveness. Although some chapters were superfluous he did get to the point often enough to convey sound, practical advice. What if the child reacts with his own resourcefulness? He gives us helpful ideas to combat it and how to react. I have started using the system and am thankful for the book. My son usually doesn't give me the chance to get to 3:

The title led me to believe it referred to the "counting", but it is actually the "steps": The first step is getting us started, the second is getting your kid started and the third is the most wonderful of all, building a relationship. Though counting is used for discipline, but the mistake that many tend to make is to count for what you "want" them to do instead for what they are "doing". Two other areas that Phelan touches on is the use of discipline outside the house and what to do with more serious problems. It is crucial we stay calm and not talk too much or, convey emotions; we should not try to reason with toddlers, but this will change with age.

Lord bless
Scott

discipline made fun (2010-02-15)

I bought this book as a give-away prize in foster parent classes that I teach. The DVD is a delight to watch and gives parents many positive options for discipline. It provides insights into the minds of children and how "to teach" positive behaviors.

Perfect title (2010-02-14)

It really works! I have very active 4 year old twins. They both respond to the count of one now! (most of the time)

Easy Discipline (2010-02-12)

Bought several of these books from my daughters and friends and I can report that they are all pleased with the easy steps in letting the child know that YOU are the 'pack leader'. This is about consistency, and discipline and lessons without resorting to spanking or shouting. Easy read.

Best Discipline Book Ever (2010-02-11)

I have a 2 1/2 year old that isn't talking but about 7 words and this book did wonders. It basically gives them to the count of 3 before putting them self in time out in their room with the door shut. My son usually stops what he is doing as soon as I say that's 1 and hold up 1 finger. I was very skeptical when the book was recommended to me but it's great. It's also has measures for people with older kids but I didn't read that far since I only have a toddler. Good Luck!

Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy

Authors: Mayo Clinic
Publisher: Harper Paperbacks
Publication date: 2004-04-01
ISBN: 0060746378
Pages: 624
Rating:
Price: $21.99

This new Mayo Clinic book on pregnancy provides you with practical information and reassurance on pregnancy and childbirth. Compiled by Mayo Clinic experts in obstetrics, it offers a clear, thorough and reliable reference for this exciting and sometimes unpredictable journey. This comprehensive book includes:

• A month-by-month look at mom and baby
• In-depth "Decision Guides" to help you make informed decisions on topics such as how to select a health care provider, prenatal testing options, pain relief for childbirth, and many others
• An easy-to-use reference guide that covers topics such as morning sickness, heartburn, back pain, headaches and yeast infections, among others
• Information on pregnancy health concerns, including preterm labor, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, along with an overview on being pregnant when you have pre-existing health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or hyperthyroidism

Customes reviews 209

Perfect. (2010-02-24)

I really have enjoyed this book. I like how its broken down and how they give the information. It's logical and percise. Which is perhaps maybe exactly what one would expect from the Mayo Clinc.

I have loved their graphs, checklists, pictures and weekly breakdowns.

This book has been very informative to my husband and I as we go through the journey of our first prengancy.

I have also really enjoyed. Your Pregnancy Week by Week, 6th Edition (Your Pregnancy Series) which my fave part now is reading about how big I am. And YOU: Having a Baby: The Owner's Manual to a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy which is a little scattered, but is fun and has some great tips, recipes, workouts, etc.

With all of these books I am a Super Star at Fetal Development. Merit badge please.

Superb (2010-02-15)

A masterpiece of information about pregnancy from one of the most authoritative sources possible. Another terrific book from the Mayo Clinic!

So Much Information (2010-02-15)

There's so much information you get overloaded. This book has everything. But its a bit overwhelming for me. I ended up using it more as a reference guide. My main pregnancy book I used was 'Your Pregnancy Week by Week'. I'm not a big reader so this suited me well, I could just read each week as my pregnancy progressed. It had all the same information as the other pregnancy books, but in a more organized fashion.

Great Book! (2010-02-11)

I LOVE this book! I ordered it when we first started trying for a baby, and it has been an invaluable resource. I'm now 8 weeks pregnant and I have found the information to be both accurate and timely. My husband really likes the book because it is medically based and very scientific - as opposed to the new-age books with all their 'god knew what she was doing when she created you' mumbo jumbo. The book has lots of great information - checklists before the baby comes, questions to ask your doctor, tips on choosing a health care provider, and even answers to oddball medical questions about the safety of hair dye, tanning beds, pain relievers, etc. I would highly recommend this book, it's a great resource for anyone who's expecting!

Great information, great tone (2010-02-06)

My wife and I purchased and received many pregnancy books. This book is our favorite. It is simplistic, straight forward, and evidence based. My mother is 15 year childbirth educator and lactation consultant and she could not put this book down. She loved the tone and information. Start with this book for your pregnancy book library.

The Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby from Birth to Age Two (Revised and Updated Edition)

Authors: William Sears, Martha Sears, Robert Sears, James Sears
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication date: 2003-03
ISBN: 0316778001
Pages: 769
Rating:
Price: $21.99

In their excellent (and hefty) resource guide, The Baby Book, attachment parenting specialists William Sears and Martha Sears have provided new parents with their approach to every aspect of baby care basics, from newborns to toddlers. Attachment parenting is a gentle, reasonable approach to parenting that stresses bonding with your baby, responding to her cues, breastfeeding, "wearing" your baby, and sharing sleep with your child. For those parents who worry about negative effects of this attention, the Sears say, "Spoiling is what happens when you leave something (or some person) alone on the shelf--it spoils."

Customes reviews 903

Indispensable (2010-03-12)

I have two kids (4 and 9 months) and this book is really wonderful. I refer to it often and the advice is very helpful. I recommend this for all parents, especially new parents.

Great book, with a couple of caveats (2010-03-01)

Excellent book by the fabulous Sears family! Provides a thorough overview of baby care, including child development, medical/health issues, etc.

A couple of caveats: (1) I also own the Sears' "The Attachment Parenting Book," and I will say that owning both is a waste -- The Baby Book contains enough info about AP that you don't really need the separate book; and (2) the chapter on being an attached but working parent was sooo disappointing! I was really looking forward to reading it, as I will be working full-time after my son is born, but instead of giving useful information, the vast majority of the chapter was dedicated to trying to convince moms to stay at home! Obviously, that would be wonderful, but it's not an option for me (or for many other women). That chapter was a bummer and, truth be told, I finished it feeling a bit offended. But absent that misstep, The Baby Book is great & definitely recommended.

A Must Have! (2010-02-14)

If you hate the idea of using the Ferber method than this book is for you. I do not understand how anyone could let their baby cry because they find it inconvenient to pick up them up or go without some sleep. They are not babies forever and this book explains that. I love this method, I think you should love your baby and do everything you can for them. Anyone using the Ferber method is completely insane. Buy this book, you will not regret it!

Just ok. (2010-02-13)

Per my review title, this book is just ok. Haven't read the whole thing, but just seems "fluffier" than I expected after browsing through it in a bookstore. My opinion may change, but so far seems light on the add value quality for a father-to-be looking for some guidance.

Priceless (2010-02-09)

Yet somehow you can buy it for such a great price! This book is fantastic. My wife and I constantly use it as a reference and love to read it when we get a free moment (which of course is rare). Out of the 15+ books that we bought before our son was born, this is #1 on our list. Amazing how much detail and depth this book has. Written by professionals who are parents, or vice-versa. A must for any parent!

What to Expect the First Year

Authors: Heidi Murkoff
Publisher: Workman Publishing Company
Publication date: 2003-10-16
ISBN: 0761152121
Pages: 832
Rating:
Price: $16.95

Is our baby eating enough? Is this much crying normal? How do I know when she is really sick? This hefty, 671-page guide to your baby's first year is brought to you by the creators of the bestselling What to Expect When You're Expecting. The three authors, all mothers themselves, are calm, clear, and encouraging as they tackle the first year of child-rearing, month by month. The easy-to-absorb, chronological format includes sections such as "What Your Baby May Be Doing," "What You Can Expect at This Month's Checkups," "Feeding Your Baby This Month," "What You May Be Concerned About," and "What It's Important to Know."

Part Two addresses special concerns such as illness, first aid do's and don'ts, the low-birthweight baby, the adopted baby, becoming a father, and sibling relationships. You'll also find discussions of breastfeeding and bottlefeeding, selecting a physician for the baby, diapers and clothing, safety, and many ways of stimulating the baby's development. The recipes for babies and toddlers in Part Three are useful, as are the recommended home remedies; charts on common childhood illnesses; height and weight; and the thorough index. (A particular strength of the book is the authors' careful attention to diet and nutrition for both mother and baby, incorporating the American Academy of Pediatrics' latest recommendations on infant nutrition.) While some of the authors' perspectives are controversial (such as whether to let your baby "cry it out" or not), this book remains one of the most comprehensive resources for new parents as they toddle through their baby's first year.

Customes reviews 465

What to expect. The first year. (2010-03-09)

This book is great. It gives you a lot of info a month at a time. Great for first time mother & great grand mother. ( things have changed a lot.) There are a lot of tips too. We b oth love it.

Just as good as the original (2010-03-04)

We're only about 5 weeks in, but this book has already proven to be an invaluable reference. We got hooked on "What to Expect When You're Expecting" and so buying this one was a logical next step. Obviously there's no substitute for talking with a pediatrician, but for simple little questions in the middle of the night, this book is great.

The best parts are the "troubleshooting" sections that tell you what to look for in the case of particular illness symptoms and particular illnesses, and the "checkpoint" sections that tell you what your baby should/can/might do every month.

The only downside is that I don't have as much free time to read ahead and see what's coming :)

great information guide (2010-02-12)

I actually refer to this book a lot in caring for my now 10 month old daughter.

Great information guide (2010-02-08)

This book is a great information guide for any first time parent. It is easy to read and touches on almost every topic. Some topics go in great detail.

What to Expect The First Year (2010-02-04)

For me, this was an essential guidebook. Coming into parenthood with very little knowledge of infants, What to Expect... let me know when to expect certain milestones, how to cope with certain common problems and how to encourage, however slightly, the little one's development. This book may be a little haphazardly organized for some. The book provides separate chapters for each month of the child's life covering the normal development of the child and adding several short essays regarding topics that might be of interest around that time period. For me, though, the book allowed me to follow along, without getting overwhelmed by too much information too early. The more single subject focused chapters following the month-by-month guide were also useful, but more often in the sense of knowing when to look for further help - that is to say, these chapters were perhaps less comprehensive than needed to cover issues like illness and feeding. My biggest complaints are that the book clearly makes certain assumptions about what constitutes good parenting - essentially living a typical modern suburban American lifestyle - and engages too often in the relentless scare mongering of new parents that is ubiquitous in American childcare literature. I doubt, however, that a book as useful as this that doesn't have those shortcomings exists. Generally good information, usefully presented - worth at least your consideration.

Taking Charge of Your Fertility, 10th Anniversary Edition: The Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control, Pregnancy Achievement, and Reproductive Health

Authors: Toni Weschler
Publisher: Harper Paperbacks
Publication date: 2006-11-01
ISBN: 0060881909
Pages: 512
Rating:
Price: $24.99

This comprehensive book explains in lucid, assured terms how to practice the fertility awareness method (FAM), a natural, scientifically proven but little-known form of birth control (which is not to be confused with the woefully ineffective "rhythm" method). Author Toni Weschler has been teaching fertility awareness for almost 20 years, and it's only just now gaining in popularity. As the book explains, by using simple fertility signs including peaks in morning body temperature and changes in cervical position and cervical mucus, it's possible to determine when ovulation is taking place. Fertility awareness is therefore useful for not only couples who are trying to conceive, but for those who are aiming to avoid pregnancy without the use of chemical contraceptives. It will be of special interest to those women who have suffered from infertility; many FAM practitioners have told the author that by filling in the detailed charts in the book, they've realized that they were chronically miscarrying, even when their doctors told them they weren't conceiving at all. As the book explains, by charting body temperature, it's simple to tell when pregnancy has occurred--and when there's danger of miscarriage. Taking Charge of Your Fertility also explains how to choose the sex of your baby by timing intercourse according to certain fertility signs. It also features thorough, easy-to-understand explanations of hormones, the menstrual cycle, and menopause, along with fertility tests and treatments and their long- and short-term side effects, plus a topnotch resource section. Recommended for any woman who wants to better understand her body. --Erica Jorgensen

Customes reviews 1195

Very Informative (2010-03-08)

Great book. It's nice to know that I don't have to use birth control which has way to many side effects. This natural method is pretty low key and in many ways empowering.

Absolutely worked for us, can't recommend enough! (2010-03-01)

I can't recommend this book enough, whether you are trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy. I wish every girl was taught this information growing up. As a woman, you should know what's going on with your body, including what's normal and what's not! This book really does put you in charge.

I read the book in May 2009 and began charting that month, in the hopes of conceiving our first. We charted three cycles and ta-da! We got pregnant in July 2009 and are expecting our daughter in 5 short weeks now. The book and the method it describes have taught me so much and I'm so grateful I found it when I did. Don't wait until you've been trying without success for 6 months to a year. Get this book and give it a try. It can only help you. It certainly changed our lives!

Good luck!

How did I not know this before??? (2010-02-28)

I just finished this book and I have a few thoughts:

1) How was I not taught about fertility? I am a sexually active 38 yo woman with an Ivy league education. I read the NY Times. I Google everything. How did I not know what cervical fluid was and how it related to my own fertility? I am so grateful to the author for the education.

2) The feminist undertones of this book may be off putting to some.

3) The 10th anniversary edition was published in 2006 - 4 years ago. Much has changed. Women I know are indeed freezing their eggs. And vaginal sonograms are the norm.

4) I appreciate the overview of procedures, HOWEVER, please note that an HSG is perhaps the most pain you will ever experience outside of childbirth. I don't know why the author did not mention this in the description. After taking 12 advil and a vicoden before the procedure, i was still screaming bloody murder and worse.

Before you use fertility drugs, read this book!!!!! It works! (2010-02-22)

This was probably the greatest gift I ever received. I read and followed this book's charts for two months after trying to conceive for 2+ years. I thought I knew everything I needed to and was exhausted of hoping. I had already filled a prescription for the fertility drug Clomid & was waiting for my next cycle to start to take it. Well, I was already pregnant!!!! This book works. I swear I knew the day I conceived but still wasn't convinced---I am now!!!!!

Very informative (2010-02-21)

I purchased this book because I wanted to be proactive in trying to become pregnant. This book is so helpful and informative! I finally have a better understanding of my cycle and Basal Body Temperature charting!

Baby 411, 4th Edition: Clear Answers & Smart Advice For Your Baby's First Year (Baby 411: Clear Answers and Smart Advice for Your Baby's First Year)

Authors: Denise Fields, Ari Brown
Publisher: Windsor Peak Press
Publication date: 2009-09-25
ISBN: 1889392340
Pages: 576
Rating:
Price: $14.95

You are having a baby! Congratulations! Now the reality hits you: what the heck am I doing? What if you could bottle the wisdom of all those parents who've come before you and mix it with the solid medical advice from an nationally-renowned pediatrician? Baby 411 is the answer! Think of it as the ultimate FAQ for new parents.

Baby 411 hits today's hot-button issues head-on. Inside the revised and updated 3rd edition, you'll find info on: picking a pediatrician, with savvy questions to ask and insider tips; finding the best way to get your baby to sleep through the night; deciding what to do when baby gets sick, including when to worry and when not to; discovering secrets to soothing a fussy baby; breastfeeding your baby and introducing new, improved formulas and solid food, with detailed nutritional information and step-by-step guide.

Customes reviews 97

New parents should read this!! (2010-03-11)

My son is 6 months old and after some reflection, I believe this is the only good book out there. The rest are up for interpretation. This is like an encyclopedia...the closest thing to a handbook you can get.

Great new parent reference! (2010-03-04)

This was one of the best baby gifts we received!! You have so many little questions the first year with a new baby and I referred to this book many times. I actually read it almost cover to cover (gave me something to do while nursing my daughter in the early months), but also referred to it as a quick reference as little challenges came up. There is a lot of parenting advice out on the web, but I felt like some of it is questionable. This book was a better quality reference and it helped me avoid many new parent challenges. My daughter is now a toddler and just started throwing some tantrums. My initial reaction was "what do I do?" and I went to grab the baby 411 book. I realized it was time to move up to "toddler 411" and I just purchased it (thank goodness the first chapter is on discipline!)This was a comprehensive, complete, and funny essential guide for babies first year! A must have and a great gift!

Very Useful Book!!! (2010-03-03)

My friend who has 2 kids recomended me this book. When I got pregnant I remembered and ordered it from Amazon. It's amazing. It gives you advise on everything you want to know in a very clear and easy to understand and remember way. It has very good organization and you can easily find whatever you need later on. I'd greatlt advise to get it, especially for first time parents, like myself.

great reference for first time expecting mom (2010-02-26)

I'm a first time mom and, at 8 1/2 months pregnant, was looking for a book with specifics about WHAT to expect, literally, once baby arrives, not HOW to parent (which, I have to believe, is pretty much irrelevant when you're dealing with a new-new-newborn). This book has all of it in a very easy-to-digest, easy-to-reference layout, and even made me giggle a few times (much needed). It is easy to skim the main points or read a whole chapter (and not necessary to read in sequential order) for greater depth on the subject, depending on your interest. Since sleep seems to be the hottest parent-topic out there, I immediately read the chapter on sleep and GREATLY appreciated the information (baby's sleep needs/patterns from day 1 on) AND their reviews of all of the major "sleep books" out there. It gave me a general sense of what's what, and I can decide from there how to parent. While I expect some of the information to come naturally once baby arrives, I really like having a book in hand just in case my common sense short circuits from to time, which I hear is also common!

Baby 411 is like a baby owner's manual- but better! (2010-02-24)

I wish I had gotten this book while still pregnant instead of when my son was 6 weeks old. This really should be required reading for new parents. This book is thorough and detailed, while still being funny and modern, unlike a lot of other baby books. The authors take a ton of conflicting information and clearly break it down for you. They also spend a lot of time encouraging and empowering you to make the best decisions for your baby, even if they are hard decisions to make.

Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child

Authors: Marc Weissbluth
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication date: 2003-04-12
ISBN: 0449004023
Pages: 345
Rating:
Price: $16.00

One of the country's leading researchers updates his revolutionary approach to solving--and preventing--your children's sleep problems

Here Dr. Marc Weissbluth, a distinguished pediatrician and father of four, offers his groundbreaking program to ensure the best sleep for your child. In Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, he explains with authority and reassurance his step-by-step regime for instituting beneficial habits within the framework of your child's natural sleep cycles. This valuable sourcebook contains brand new research that

- Pinpoints the way daytime sleep differs from night sleep and why both are important to your child
- Helps you cope with and stop the crybaby syndrome, nightmares, bedwetting, and more
- Analyzes ways to get your baby to fall asleep according to his internal clock--naturally
- Reveals the common mistakes parents make to get their children to sleep--including the inclination to rock and feed
- Explores the different sleep cycle needs for different temperaments--from quiet babies to hyperactive toddlers
- Emphasizes the significance of a nap schedule
-

Rest is vital to your child's health growth and development. Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child outlines proven strategies that ensure good, healthy sleep for every age. Advises parents dealing with teenagers and their unique sleep problems

Customes reviews 1286

GREAT BOOK (2010-03-09)

Borrowed this book from a friend and liked it so much that I had to get myself a copy. Very helpful and useful information that is organized well. :)

Well Rested Family = Happy Family! (2010-03-09)

This is by far the most helpful, important book for parents and babies! We used Dr. Weissbluth's methods with our first baby and solved all of her sleep issues. When we had our second baby, we started off on the right foot all because of this book. Not a day goes by that I don't think about something that was suggested from this book. Our children have predictable, healthy sleep patterns all because of what my husband and I learned through this book. I buy it for EVERY expecting parent I know! Sleep is the foundation for healthy eating and happy playing and Dr. Weissbluth shows you why and how to establish healthy sleep habits...this will create a well rested, happy family!

This is an essential book when having a baby! (2010-03-09)

Someone my husband works with gave us this book at our baby shower. The woman who gave it to us pointed out that she followed the general principles of the book and NEVER had sleep issues with any of her kids. I finally started to read the book when our son was about 5 weeks old. This book has helped us nurture a 14-month-old who sleeps 12 hours at night and takes two 2-hour naps.....and has been doing so since he was about 2-3 months old (napping more frequently when he was a little younger). This book discusses how much sleep infants/children require at their respective age from a biological/neurological/physical/developmental standpoint. The author approaches the topic in a very non-judgemental way and provides several examples of how his suggestions have helped specific families as well as ways he has had to problem solve with families when his suggestions didn't work the first time. This is nice b/c many other books I've read don't troubleshoot if the authors suggestions don't work. The book operates off the basic premise that we need to respect our children's sleep needs and really fight to provide them the opportunity to sleep as much as they need (e.g., no evening trips to the supermarket with the kids in their pjs, and no more taking the baby to lunch with your gal pals to nap in the infant carrier instead of napping peacefully at home).

BOTTOM LINE: All of my co-workers, family member and friends are jealous of how well our kids sleep. Their great sleeping habits started when I implemented the strategies discussed in this book. I regularly use strategies in this book to make recommendations to my friends when they ask for help getting their kids to sleep better. This book is a must buy! The last bit I would like to add is that you have to be very consistent or it probably won't work!

Great book for sleep training...and for the desparate sleep deprived parent! (2010-03-05)

When my daughter was ~5 to 6 months old, she started to fight napping during the day, started waking at night and would scream because she was overly tired. She refused to sleep, nurse, rock...nothing worked! After reading this book, everything made sense! We followed the suggestions in the book about watching for your child's sleep cues and put her down for her nap and for bed earlier and it worked! She went back to sleeping not just through the night, but for like 12 hours! 6:30 pm to 6:30 am!! She's now almost 3 years old and still is a great sleeper! She generally sleeps 11 hours or so at night and takes a short nap during the day. By making sleep a necessity for her, she has some great sleep habits and is a happy child with happy parents :-) For our next child, I plan to use the suggestions in this book from the start!

Should of had it for baby #1 &2 (2010-03-03)

Awesome! My 5 month old sleeps through the night (7PM-5AM) and takes 3 scheduled naps!!!!

The Expectant Father: Facts, Tips and Advice for Dads-to-Be, Second Edition

Authors: Armin A. Brott
Publisher: Abbeville Press
Publication date: 2001-04-03
ISBN: 0789205386
Pages: 271
Rating:
Price: $11.95

An information-packed guide to all the emotional, financial and physical changes the father-to-be may experience during the course of his partner's pregnancy. Incorporating the wisdom of top experts in the field, from obstetricians and birth-class instructors to psychologists and sociologists, this book is filled with sound advice and practical tips for men, as well as New Yorker-style cartoons that will keep anxious fathers-to-be chuckling.

Customes reviews 286

Better books out there (2010-02-20)

I was excited to get this book for my husband- but after reading through it I was very disappointed. There is too much information about how "expensive" babies are (as if Dads are not already worried about money) but the information is too generalized and many times inaccurate. For example when they discuss the "added costs" of labor and how expensive a complication can be- I wonder if they have health insurance? All insurance policies are different...ours covers such "complications". Why freak out new Dads so much? The section that makes excuses for why men cheat on their pregnant wives also personally offended me. I gave it 2 stars because I'm not a man and I think some of the later chapters dealing with emotions of men have merit. That said- I personally think Dad would have a better time reading some standard baby books though.

Are you an expectant father with no clue? (2010-02-06)

This is a must read for expectant Fathers. This book totally nails what the expectant father should look out for during the pregnancy period. Great Read!!

Book (2010-01-27)

This is a great book for a daddy to be. It gives many great advices!

Good book, was not used by my husband (2010-01-10)

I liked the information in this book and figured my Husband would like it too. However, he really wasn't interested in reading a baby book (most guys aren't) But if your man is gung-ho about learning every thing he can before you have the baby, get this book for him.

Nothing can fully prepare you for fatherhood but get this book anyways. (2009-12-25)

Here's a bit of advice for all new dads dealing a pregnant woman. The past means nothing. You are on a whole new journey parts of which will blow your mind, be extremely stressful. Your relationship with your child's mother is going to evolve and you need to reach deep inside for a new level of maturity. No one book is going to prepare you. Your strength comes from inside - look for it there, not in a book. What you will find inside is a mix of practical advice split between what you need to know as "dad" and what is happening to mom. It is worth reading and I'd just buy this book, read it, commit it to memory and go from there. I purchased a few other recommended titles besides this one - they weren't great. Stick to this one.

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302 303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 321 322 323 324 325 326 327 328 329 330 331 332 333 334 335 336 337 338 339 340 341 342 343 344 345 346 347 348 349 350 351 352 353 354 355 356 357 358 359 360 361 362 363 364 365 366 367 368 369 370 371 372 373 374 375 376 377 378 379 380 381 382 383 384 385 386 387 388 389 390 391 392 393 394 395 396 397 398 399 400