I know we have Google and WebMD and hundreds (if not thousands) of other websites available to us now, but there is something about being able to open up a book and highlight or dog-ear a page that answers a question we have about our babies. So, while the internet is a great source of information, don’t forget that books can be a great resource, too (especially at 3am when you don’t feel like going to turn on the computer). Keep them on your night table with a book light, and you’re good to go! Some of my favorites are below.
Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child was an invaluable resource for me. My copy had dog-eared pages and was marked with post-it notes and highlighter! It contains lots of good, practical information about the importance of sleep for growing babies and children, and now (BONUS!) it comes in a twin version! Check it out and you may get a good night’s rest sooner than you think!
I won’t lie — breastfeeding twins can be a big challenge, especially if you are a first-time mom! It’s so important to get the support of a good friend or family member that has experienced breastfeeding. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding is a great resource that I used often. I breastfed my twins for six weeks before we started supplementing with formula because they weren’t gaining enough weight. I used this book again when their baby sister joined our family six years later.
One of the toughest choices a mother will ever make is whether to work outside the home or be a full-time at-home mom. Home by Choice was an instrumental book for me when I had to make that decision. This book supported and encouraged my decision to stay home with my babies. I realize this is a difficult decision especially for women who have worked hard to establish a career. Personally, I believe a baby needs his/her mother full time until they are at least two, preferably longer if possible. I never regretted my decision to be at home, even though it certainly required some sacrifice. I would make the same choice today if I were faced with that decision again.
These are two books I referred to often when my kids were little and even now as they grow older. I have always respected Dr. James Dobson and the work he does to promote marriage and family life. He offers guidelines and helpful advice for parents in all situations – – A great resource to keep at hand.
Good old Dr. Spock and his time-tested advice! More than ever before, this essential and classic work will help all parents face their many challenges and responsibilities with new confidence and joy. As Dr. Spock has always said, “Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.”
This book has become a classic. It contains everything new parents need to know about the care (and feeding) of an infant, from the authors of What to Expect® When You’re Expecting. It will give you reassuring answers to hundreds of questions and address both the physical and emotional needs of the entire family.
21 Twin Years 