The book every new parent should read

The first days with the new baby are quite a stress. You need to buy many new things you never knew it exist and get used with the sleep deprivation and, if you breastfeed, to be sure that everything is done right for offering the baby the right amount of nutrition. Written by an experienced professional and private maternity nurse, The Baby Book helps you turn a potential nightmare into an enjoyable, unforgettable experience. 

This new edition of the book published ten years ago is very well structured and written in an accessible style. You'll find personal short stories, useful hints and, especially, detailed to-do and to-have lists that helps you navigate smoothly through the first year of your baby. Wish I had this book before, but even now it is not too late to check and make eventual corrections.

The encouraging tone of the author makes you feel just normal. There is no perfect parent and what we can do the best is to follow the general rules and principles, while trying to write your own parenting book. In fact, we are quite priviledged nowadays with so may advice and available resources that can be used regardless of our geographical location. 

The book is organised in big chapters, covering important issues such as feeding, sleep, emotional development. The main approach is the importance to create routines and rules. The sooner the better as the kids need to get used not always with a lot of love and cuddling, but also with rules and respect. 'Toddlers often gain a great sense of security from routine in an ever-changing world; for example, using the same bowl for breakfast or having the same story at bedtime'. It is what I noticed myself during the last extended trip with the baby, when my baby had to cope with a lot of challenges due to a different weather and room setting. 

I strongly recommend this book to new or old parents, as a very useful guidance during the first year of baby life. It makes the integration of the baby into your life and your life in general much easier.
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher via NetGalley.com