Forget the inaccurate child care manuals – this is the book you really need to successfully handle the first turbulent days and months. As a health journalist and mother of three, Lucy Atkins knows both the medical aspects of childbirth and baby development, as well as the reality of daily life as an exhausted first-time parent.

With her inherent spirit and humor, she starts with that first immersive day, addressing issues unique to first-time parents who look at their newborn and think “Where are the instructions?”. Facing the questions and concerns of all new mothers—Why is my baby crying so much? Will I ever lose all this weight? Am I a bad parent because…?—the book provides practical advice and clear guidance. It addresses the needs of the baby and, very importantly, those of the parent during the first year of their baby's life.

Sections include:

• Equipment – the essentials for baby care, contrary to what the store tells you
• First hours – how to cope with the first hours
• Returning home – bonding, how to survive the first days
• Sleep – for everyone!
• Crying – why your baby cries and what to do about it
• Feeding – breastfeeding, formula feeding, transitioning to solids, nutritional value
• Development – physical and mental development of the baby
• Play – yes, you can have fun too
• Health – health issues for the baby and the parent
• Adjustment – adapting to new life and changing parental relationship
• Work – how to survive as a parent at home and with the return to work

Also includes information for single parenting, as well as for adopted, twin, and special needs babies.

"The First-Time Parent" is by your side, reaffirming that you can successfully cope with your new baby and your new life.

Pages: 224, Dimensions: 18.9x18.9cm