Here are my favorite resources for the baby years, the toddler and preschool years, discipline, getting along, food and nutrition, and elimination communication.
The Baby Years
In the first year and especially the first six months, it was all about The Happiest Baby on the Block: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Baby Sleep Longer
. That book was a lifesaver! I ended up using all five S’s for my son and just occasional swaddling for my daughter. They couldn’t have been more different as babies!
The Toddler and Preschool Years
When my son entered toddlerhood and before my daughter was born, I found myself constantly looking for ways to keep him entertained so I could get my own things done. At some point, it dawned on me that what interests him the most is whatever I’m doing and playing with whatever I’m using over his toys. Slowly, I began changing all my routines, incorporating him into my everyday tasks. Yes, it takes me longer to get things done but in the long run, there’s less of a need to split play time with chore time. Then, a relative who was also a Montessori teacher thought I should look into that. My son does not go to a Montessori school. So, I get most of my ideas from this Montessori book, Teaching Montessori in the Home: Pre-School Years: The Pre-School Years (Teaching Montessori in the Home)
. Since all the books not written by Maria Montessori herself are just the authors’ interpretation of her philosophy, I thought it would be worthwhile to actually read her writings. The two that I keep around are The Montessori Method
and The Absorbent Mind
Discipline
To raise happy, responsible children, you have to discipline. In Parenting With Love And Logic (Updated and Expanded Edition)
and Love and Logic Magic for Early Childhood: Practical Parenting from Birth to Six Years
, the authors’ take on discipline is refreshing and optimistic, turning episodes of misbehavior and tantrums into opportunities to teach our kids to be wiser. And, have fun doing it. I like their perspective, making these bouts of fits all the more manageable.
Getting Along
Hands down, Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too
. Even if you have an only child, this book helps parents teach kids to cooperate. It is a fast read and a great resource to have around.
General Heath and Wellness
The The Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby from Birth to Age Two (Revised and Updated Edition)
is a great reference on a wide range of topics: newborn basics, infant feeding, development, modern parenting, and health and safety. Now that I’m past the baby phase, I occasionally flip open the book for generic medical advice.
Food and Nutrition
I was given Super Baby Food
Elimination Communication or Infant Potty Training
Online resources:
Dy-dee Diaper Service
Diaper Free Baby
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