Recommended Reading

Here are a few books that I have found very helpful:


1- What To Expect When Expecting - I found this super helpful when I was pregnant but don't read ahead as it can freak you out.


2- The Nursing Mother's Companion - I haven't read it cover to cover and I do find some of it a little pushy on breastfeeding but it has helped me troubleshoot a few issues along the way.


3- Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems by Richard Ferber - Yes this is referred to as the "cry it out method". What I found helpful is that he describes the sleep cycles and the psychology behind sleeping habits. It was also very eye opening as to how parents can really screw up their babies when it comes to sleeping. Even if you decide not to let your baby "cry it out" you will still learn a lot. I also liked that he is the director of The Center of Pediatric Sleep Disorders at Children's Hospital in Boston versus some of the other books are written by moms with years of experience, which I found annoying because they don't explain why and lots of the examples contradicted what they had just told you to do.


I personally did not find it helpful to read the last two ahead of time (meaning before your baby is born). Your pregnant brain will probably not remember much of the info. For me these are books that are good to have around the house so you can refer to them as needed.