Parenting / 16 October, 2018 / Ellie Thompson

12 of The Best New Parenting Books This Autumn Winter

Navigating pregnancy and parenting is a minefield at best. Yes, there’s always Google to give you a quick answer to whatever it is you’re going through, but can you always trust the information you read online (unless you’re on My Baba of course!)? If you’re looking for extra support then do check out my top ten new parenting books released this autumn. They cover everything from meal planning, deciphering baby body language to helpful hacks, happy babies and safe exercises to do while pregnant.

A Helpful Guide to a Happy Baby, Fiona Cooke

Written by midwife and maternity nurse this book contains easy-to-read practical wisdom for babies aged 0-3 months. Step by step instructions are accompanied by images so you fully understand how to do things such as swaddle or massage.

The Little Book of Self-Care for New Mums, Beccy Hands and Alexis Stickland

We love this book as it brings together years of experience from a midwife and a doula. In it, there are many tips and tricks to deal with the feeling of overwhelm. You’ll find answers to those questions you might be too embarrassed to ask, written in a nurturing and warm tone. This book will help you navigate the first few months with a newborn.

7 Secrets of the Newborn, Robert Hamilton

Preparing for Pregnancy, Birth and Motherhood, Nancy Murphy

A comprehensive bible providing the ultimate low-down on all aspects of pregnancy and childbirth written by midwife and antenatal teacher Nancy Murphy. The book is a must-read for prospective parents trying to conceive, as well as those already pregnant. There’s a detailed account of the entire nine month process in a basic and easy-to-read format.

The Positive Breastfeeding Book, Amy Brown

Professor Amy Brown from the Department of Health at Swansea University is one of the UK’s leading researchers into infant feeding. Understand how breastfeeding really works with this no-judgement evidence based information included in this fantastic new book. There are strategies for coping with different situations and tips for planning for your new arrival and for coping in the first few months.

Life After Baby Loss, Nicola Gaskin

Nicola Gaskin opens up the conversation around baby loss offering raw, honest and deeply empathetic support to all parents.

There’s information on how to cope with the initial shock, and ways to overcome jealousy, anger, birthdays and Mother’s Day. There are strategies to help you navigate through a wide range of intense and complex emotions. This book will hold your hand through your darkest and lightest moments: read it to know you are not alone and that all your feelings are absolutely valid.

Pilates for Pregnancy, Anya Hayes

Anya Hayes a member of the Body Control Pilates Association is a maternity Pilates instructor specialising in bumps and mamas. This book is a straight talking, woman-to-woman guide which focusses on core strength and the pelvic floor. Pilates for Pregnancy aims to improve health, mood and energy during pregnancy.

Baby Body Language, Emma Howard

This book promises to guide and reassure parents in the art of communicating with their babies and toddlers. Baby Body Language gives parents a valuable insight into their child’s thought processes and meanings behind their actions. The book addresses lots of common parenting issues – teething, potty training, first steps, new friends, pets, sibling rivalry and separation anxiety. By understanding telltale body postures and gestures, one can learn how to be a more effective parent.

Young Gums, Beth Bentley

The Good Stuff, Lucinda Miller

Delicious recipes and tips for happier and healthier children. Lucinda Miller is a top child nutrition expert and founder of NatureDoc. Lucinda’s new book The Good Stuff shoes you how to cook nutritious food that your children will love. There are recipes for all ages, from toddlers to teens. There are meal planners, lunchbox and snack ideas – with clever alternatives for main food allergens.

Parenting for £1 and Other Baby Budget Hacks, Mark & Roxanne Hoyle

Ladbaby’s genius money-saving hacks have taken Facebook and the internet by storm, and their new parenting manual is set to help you dodge parenting’s biggest expenses with a sense of humour to boot! Husband and wife duo have suggestions on alternative Moses baskets, do-it-yourself newborn photo shots and homemade soft-play ball pits. You name it, they’re all over it, with some very handy advice. A brilliant gift for any new parent.

The Mother of All Jobs, Christine Armstrong

This book brings together the thoughts, opinions and wisdom of women who have opened up about everything to create a manifesto for happy professional families. The Mother of All Jobs is a practical book offering new working parents knowledge that others have learnt the hard way.