Whether you’re about to start potty training, are going through a big transition, or simply trying to understand a developmental phase, consider the author’s tone, credentials, and relevance before purchasing. We carefully evaluated books for their subject matter, author credentials, voice and tone, relevance, and value when reviewing products. Here are the parenting books we trust the most. Dr. Karp uses a blend of proven science and ancient wisdom to guide parents through some easy ways to get their babies to stop crying, among other things. Using Dr. Karp’s famous 5 “S’s” (swaddling, putting the baby on their side or stomach, making shushing noises, swinging the baby, and giving them a way to suck), parents have been safely and effectively calming their crying babies for years and years. Price at time of publication: $30 Pointing out research that indicates how the seeds for adult success are planted during the toddler years, Dr. Klein explains to readers what they can do today to install key qualities like resilience, self-reliance, self-regulation, and empathy in their kids so that they are ready to take on the world when they start school. Price at time of publication: $19 Pointing out the big-picture view of God’s plan for parents and outlining 14 foundational principles centered on the gospel, Tripp shows parents how their faith can provide them with the grace that has the power to shape what they do as parents if they let it. Price at time of publication: $23 The revised version includes new research-based information about child temperament, as well as a new section on how to collaborate on discipline with your child’s preschool teachers, among other things. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $18 The book is relevant to parents with kids of any age, really, although there may be something extra helpful in there for parents of teens. The book is a No. 1 best seller in the parenting teenagers category. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $17
Voice
Peruse the parenting aisle of your local bookshop and you’ll find books that range from comedic to cerebral. Before making your purchase, be sure to thumb through the first few pages to make sure you identify with the author’s voice and tone.
Relevance
A book on breastfeeding won’t serve a parent who’s about to send their child to college. Look for books that speak to issues that are relevant to you based on your kids ages and life stages.
