Having a few good natural parenting books around the house can keep parents from dashing to the phone with every question. Four much-needed resources include:
The Baby Book by William Sears, Martha Sears, Robert Sears and James Sears [Little, Brown and Company, Revised Edition, 2003]
A product of Dr. William Sears, the father of attachment parenting, this large guide is invaluable to new parents. Covering the years from birth to age two, The Baby Book will help readers learn about the basics. The Sears Family Library includes books on birth, breastfeeding, vaccines and more. For a natural parent, the Sears family’s work really is the place to start.
Naturally Healthy Babies and Children by Aviva Romm, CPM, Herbalist AHG [Storey Books, 2000]
From colic to acne, Naturally Healthy makes a point of treating the whole child, recommending alternative therapies such as herbal remedies and dietary changes. This book is a must-have in every parent’s natural “medicine chest.”
The No-Cry Sleep Solution by Elizabeth Pantley, [McGraw-Hill, 2002]
The No-Cry Sleep Solution is a guide for parents looking to avoid cry-it-out methods and instead practice a gentler way, whether in a crib or a family bed. Pantley also published a similar style potty training book in 2006.
Raising Your Spirited Child by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka [Harper Paperbacks, Revised Edition, 2006]
An award-winning educator, Kurcinka based this book on her years of working with families in crisis, dealing with power struggles and negative labels. Parents raising a “strong-willed” or “intense” child, will appreciate Kurcinka’s gentle approach to changing the behavior without changing the child.
Bonding Time
The Creative Family by Amanda Blake Soule [Trumpeter, 2008]
Mother, crafter, and super-blogger Soule’s first book is not just about making projects for and with your children. It offers a glimpse into a naturally creative life. Many a crafty and non-crafty parent alike will find this book inspiring.
Pretend Soup and Other Real Recipes by Mollie Katzen [Tricycle Press, 1994]
Nothing helps parents connect to their child quite like making a mess (and meal) together. Mollie Katzen’s healthy cookbook for pre-school-age and older children offers illustrated recipes for meals and snacks that kids will actually eat.
Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv, [a revised edition is being release in July 2009 by Atlantic Books]
Being a “natural” parent isn’t always about reading books indoors. Last Child in the Woods encourages parents to reconnect with nature and to introduce their children to an outdoors almost forgotten by recent generations.
Finding Peace
Everyday Blessings by Myla and Jon Kabat-Zinn [Hyperion, 1997]
Educators and parents, the Kabat-Zinns' book helps readers embrace the dailyness of life with children while teaching that often parenting is as simple as putting yourself in your child’s place.
Mitten Strings for God by Katrina Kenison [Warner Books, 2000]
Sit down with this book, a cup of tea and explore the magic of being a parent. Kenison’s essays about finding family rhythm and recharging the spirit help bring peace to a natural home.
Mommy Mantras by Bethany E. Casarjian, Ph.D. and Diane H. Dillon, Ph. D. [Broadway Books, 2006]
Like bound and jacketed peace-of-mind, this little book offers sayings and affirmations mothers can repeat to themselves when the everyday hiccups of motherhood get to be a bit too much. Sometimes just remembering that “No Phase Lasts Forever” is enough to get a mom to the other side.
A well-stocked library can help many parents who find themselves taking a "natural" route. Because some of these books are older, search for them at your local library or favorite used book store or site.
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