15 Books Everyone Should Read Before Having Kids

Jun 7, 2019
Articles

Introduction

Welcome to Marjorie Cowley's collection of 15 Books Everyone Should Read Before Having Kids. This handpicked selection of literary masterpieces offers valuable insights, guidance, and inspiration for anyone considering starting a family. Whether you are preparing for parenthood, curious about the joys and challenges of raising children, or simply looking for captivating reads, these books are bound to enrich your perspective on the journey of becoming a parent.

1. "The Whole-Brain Child" by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson

Dive into the world of neuroscience and child psychology with this groundbreaking book. "The Whole-Brain Child" provides practical strategies that help you understand and foster your child's emotional development, resilience, and overall well-being.

2. "Parenting from the Inside Out" by Daniel J. Siegel and Mary Hartzell

Discover the deep connections between your own childhood experiences and your approach to parenting. "Parenting from the Inside Out" guides you through a journey of self-reflection, enabling you to develop a more conscious and empathetic parenting style.

3. "The Power of Play" by David Elkind

In this insightful book, David Elkind explores the importance of play in early childhood development. Learn how play enhances creativity, problem-solving skills, and social interactions, and how you can incorporate play into your parenting approach to support your child's growth.

4. "Simplicity Parenting" by Kim John Payne and Lisa M. Ross

In a world filled with distractions, "Simplicity Parenting" offers a refreshing perspective on raising children. Embrace minimalism, establish predictable routines, and nurture imaginative play to create an environment that allows your child to thrive.

5. "The Montessori Toddler" by Simone Davies

Unlock the potential of the Montessori approach and discover practical tips for fostering independence, curiosity, and self-confidence in your toddler. "The Montessori Toddler" empowers you to create an environment that promotes exploration and a love for learning.

6. "How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk" by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

Communication is key, and this book provides essential tools for effective parent-child communication. Explore respectful and supportive dialogue techniques that strengthen your connection with your child and foster mutual understanding.

7. "The Whole-Brain Child Workbook" by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson

Deepen your understanding of the concepts introduced in "The Whole-Brain Child" through practical exercises and worksheets. This workbook offers valuable hands-on tools to help you apply the book's strategies in your daily interactions with your child.

8. "Operating Instructions: A Journal of My Son's First Year" by Anne Lamott

Anne Lamott's heartfelt memoir takes you through the rollercoaster ride of her own experiences as a new mother. Honest and poignant, "Operating Instructions" offers a relatable insight into the challenges and joys of the first year of parenthood.

9. "The Conscious Parent" by Dr. Shefali Tsabary

Challenge conventional parenting norms and embark on a transformative journey with "The Conscious Parent." Dr. Shefali Tsabary invites you to develop a mindful, present, and authentic connection with your child, fostering their emotional intelligence and self-esteem.

10. "NurtureShock" by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman

NurtureShock takes a science-based approach to bust popular myths about parenting. Delve into fascinating research findings that shed light on topics such as sibling relationships, sleep, praise, and self-control, challenging conventional wisdom and encouraging a more informed approach to raising children.

11. "The Read-Aloud Family" by Sarah Mackenzie

Create cherished memories and instill a love for reading with "The Read-Aloud Family." Sarah Mackenzie shares practical tips and inspiring book recommendations to help you create a culture of reading in your home, fostering literacy, imagination, and connection.

12. "The Danish Way of Parenting" by Jessica Joelle Alexander and Iben Dissing Sandahl

Explore the secrets of Danish parenting and uncover the principles that make Denmark one of the happiest countries in the world. "The Danish Way of Parenting" introduces the values of empathy, play, and authenticity, offering a refreshing perspective on raising confident and resilient children.

13. "Parenting with Love and Logic" by Charles Fay and Foster Cline

Equip yourself with effective parenting strategies that empower your child to make responsible decisions. "Parenting with Love and Logic" emphasizes empathy and natural consequences, teaching valuable life skills while nurturing a healthy parent-child relationship.

14. "The Emotional Life of the Toddler" by Alicia F. Lieberman

Gain insights into the emotional world of toddlers and learn how to support their emotional development. "The Emotional Life of the Toddler" provides practical advice for navigating tantrums, understanding emotions, and fostering secure attachments with your little ones.

15. "Elevating Child Care: A Guide to Respectful Parenting" by Janet Lansbury

Discover a compassionate and respectful approach to parenting with "Elevating Child Care." Janet Lansbury shares insights on setting boundaries, nurturing independence, and maintaining healthy parent-child relationships using principles inspired by Magda Gerber's RIE philosophy.

Conclusion

These 15 Books Everyone Should Read Before Having Kids offer a diverse range of perspectives, tools, and inspiration for anyone embarking on the incredible journey of parenthood. Whether you seek practical strategies, psychological insights, or heartfelt memoirs, these books provide invaluable wisdom that will equip you to navigate the joys and challenges of raising children.

At Marjorie Cowley, we believe in the power of reading and lifelong learning. Explore our website to discover more literary recommendations, helpful resources, and a community of book lovers passionate about nurturing a love for reading in the next generation.