First-Time Mom

Rating:
Summary: Urgh - chauvenistic tendencies abound
Review: I got this book as a baby shower present but after the first few chapters I was disappointed and threw it in the trash rather than give it to another hapless soul. As parents, what kind of world are we making for our kids if we follow a book on child-rearing laced with the "expert's" male chauvenistic tendencies? For example, the author writes: "Our true first born, Holly, came before all the other kids. Our second 'first born,' Kevin was... as the first and only male ... has taken on many first born characteristics." (p. 5) A comment like this should be left in the Dark Ages. I certainly wouldn't want to see anyone's daughter (first born or not) grow up feeling less than equal to her male counterparts. True, the book presents some other practical information, but you're better off with books by Magda Gerber.

Rating:
Summary: First-time Mom
Review: I was amazed at Dr. Leman's practical advice and took every bit to heart. For those who take things out of context I supposed it would seem chauvinistic. However, for those of us who listend closely to the entire text it was very helpful and I recommend and buy it for all the expectant firt-time moms I know!

Rating:
Summary: A great approach...a must read
Review: This is the first book I've bought while pregnant except for What to Expect When You're Expecting. The approach the author uses here is simple and laid back. Instead of telling you what to do and saying anything different is wrong, he pretty much deals with common sense and the fact that you really can't screw up your child, so stop stressing out about it. He states that all babies, like all pregnancies, are different and unique. Loving your child and bonding is important, yet comes only after bonding with your spouse and keeping your faith strong. I like how he says that too much preparation and worry over what products to use, how to feed, keeping to a schedule, is all unnecessary stress and doing what you feel is right is what is important. It is a great read and easy to follow. I feel a lot better already about bringing my baby into this world knowing I don't have to follow any plan or measure up to any other parent.

Rating:
Summary: A great approach...a must read
Review: This is the first book I've bought while pregnant except for What to Expect When You're Expecting. The approach the author uses here is simple and laid back. Instead of telling you what to do and saying anything different is wrong, he pretty much deals with common sense and the fact that you really can't screw up your child, so stop stressing out about it. He states that all babies, like all pregnancies, are different and unique. Loving your child and bonding is important, yet comes only after bonding with your spouse and keeping your faith strong. I like how he says that too much preparation and worry over what products to use, how to feed, keeping to a schedule, is all unnecessary stress and doing what you feel is right is what is important. It is a great read and easy to follow. I feel a lot better already about bringing my baby into this world knowing I don't have to follow any plan or measure up to any other parent.