On Tue, 14 Aug 2007 23:12:34 +0100, Sarah Vaughan
Post by Sarah VaughanWhat good books are there for preparing a child of 2 1/2 or so for a new
sibling?
I've already got the Usborne New Experiences book about having a new
baby, which seems good from the point of view of explaining the basics -
baby growing inside Mummy, she goes to hospital when it's ready to be
born, Mummy will have to feed and bath baby, etc. - but it would be nice
to have one that mentions the negatives (baby will sometimes cry a lot,
sometimes Mummy will have to take care of baby first before Jamie, etc.)
Any suggestions?
All the best,
Sarah
If you are planning to breastfeed, LLL has a list
http://www.lalecheleague.org/BEC/additChildrensBooks.html
Andreae, Giles
THERE'S A HOUSE INSIDE MY MOMMY
Albert Whitman, 2002
Through its easy-to-read, rhyming text and colorful drawings depicting
a loving, growing family, There's a House Inside My Mommy addresses
the natural curiosity an older toddler/young preschooler might have
when mom is expecting a new baby. The books illustrations portray a
loving, child-centered family with equal involvement from both mom and
dad. The story addresses the physical changes a sibling-to-be might
notice during mom's pregnancy, while reassuring the child that s/he
will continue to be just as special to mom and dad as s/he already is.
Because this book does not discuss or picture the actual birth
setting, family sleeping arrangements or infant feeding methods, it is
suitable for a wide variety of families.
Anholt, Catherine & Laurence
SOPHIE AND THE NEW BABY
Whitman, 2000
A wonderful book about the many mixed feelings a child may go through
while adjusting to the birth of a sibling, from anticipation to a
sense of lonliness, from anger to happiness. Beautifully illustrated,
the book suggests a correlation between the passing of seasons and
changing emotions. (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS Jan-Feb 2003.)
Ashbé, Jeanne
AND AFTER THAT
Kane/Miller, 2002
This loving sequel to What's Inside engages the child with colorful
images, funny text, and flaps that are lifted to reveal what happens
after various situations, such as after putting on socks and making a
mess. The book shows the child that although there will be changes
after her new sibling arrives, they aren't necessarily bad ones.
(Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, Jan-Feb 2003.)
Ashbé,Jeanne
WHAT'S INSIDE
Kane/Miller, 1999
Gentle and humorous lift-the-flap book that shows a young child what
is inside a number of everyday objects and what is inside mom when a
baby is growing. The final illustration shows the cuddly baby being
held by her older brother, at last. (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS,
Jan-Feb 2003).
Avery, Charles
EVERYBODY HAS FEELINGS: Todos Tenemos Sentimientos
Gryphon House, 1997
Beautiful candid black and white photos of multiracial, mostly
African-American, children. Photos and simple text in English and
Spanish effectively illustrate a wide range of feelings.
Bernhard, Emery and Durga
A RIDE ON MOTHER'S BACK: A Day of Baby Carrying Around the World
Gulliver Books, 1996
Families from across the globe meet the needs of their youngest
members in this colorful children's book. Babies and toddlers are
carried in a wide variety of slings and backpacks. Several
illustrations include nursing.
Boritzer, Etan
WHAT IS LOVE?
Veronica Lane, 1996
Charming illustrations and thoughtful text explore the question, "What
is Love?" A wonderful read-aloud for children four and older.
BREASTFEEDING IS SPECIAL
Gateway Maternal and Health Consortium, 1998
This bilingual coloring book reassures the older sibling that mother
will breastfeed the new baby, that breastfeeding is special, and that
s/he will always be loved.
Camp, Lindsay and Jonathan Langley
THE BIGGEST BED IN THE WORLD
HarperCollins, 2000
This children's picture book tells the story of Ben's dad who goes on
a search for an ever-bigger bed to share with his ever-growing family.
Parents and children alike will admire the creative ways this father
seeks to meet the nighttime needs of his entire family.
Breastfeeding-friendly, although there is a bottle in one
illustration.
Carroll, Teresa
MOMMY BREASTFEEDS OUR BABY
NuBaby, 1990
Realistic drawings and simple text helps children to understand
breastfeeding as a natural and special way to feed the new baby.
(Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, May-June 1998.)
Cole, Joanna
HOW YOU WERE BORN
Morrow, rev. ed. 1994
This sensitive book tells how a baby grows from an egg cell, lives
inside the mother's uterus, and is born--at home, in the hospital, or
by cesarean. Beautiful black-and-white photographs capture parents'
and siblings' excitement about the new baby, while the text describes
all that babies see and feel.
(Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, May-June 1998.)
Corey, Dorothy
WILL THERE BE A LAP FOR ME?
Albert Whitman, 1992
This beautifully illustrated book chronicles the older sibling's
transition as the new baby is added to the family. Of course, there
will be a lap for big brother, even if the baby seems to be nursing
all the time. Inexpensive format and attractive portrayal of an
African-American family add to this book's appeal.
Crary, Elizabeth
CHILDREN'S PROBLEM-SOLVING SERIES:
I Want It; I Want to Play; Mommy, Don't Go; My Name Is not Dummy; I'm
Lost; I Can't Wait
Parenting Press, 2nd ed., 1996
An excellent series of interactive problem-solving books for children.
Each story describes a child in a common childhood situation and
explores alternatives and outcomes for each. The books model thinking
before acting, choosing among different options, and how one's
behavior affects others. Some readers may be uncomfortable with the
book, Mommy, Don't Go, which does not include mother staying home as
an option. The series promotes discussion between parents and children
about problem-solving and helps children take responsibility for their
feelings and problems.
Crary, Elizabeth
DEALING WITH FEELINGS SERIES: I'm Mad; I'm Scared; I'm Proud; I'm
Excited; I'm Frustrated; I'm Furious
Parenting Press, 2nd Ed. (some titles), 1992, 1994
An excellent series of interactive problem-solving books for children.
Each book presents a child whose strong feelings are causing a problem
or dilemma. The story then explores alternatives and outcomes for each
situation. Especially helpful for parents of children who get upset
talking about their feelings or when parent or child is at a loss when
dealing with strong emotions. Reinforces loving guidance, and promotes
parent-child interaction.
Crozat, Francçois
I AM A LITTLE KANGAROO
Barron's, 1997
This cute toddler-sized book tells about the birth and life of a baby
kangaroo, and includes nursing as a normal part of his daily life.
Delis-Abrams, Alexandra
ABC FEELINGS BOOK
Adage Publications, rev. ed. 1991
Promotes discussion of feelings by associating each letter of the
alphabet with a different emotion. Appropriate for children ages 3-8.
(Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, Jan-Feb 1992.)
Deutschbein, Mary Joan
MAGGIE'S WEANING
LLLI, rev. ed., 1999
This revised version of the classic weaning book has a new look. The
story remains a delightful, child's eye view of the nursing
experience. As Maggie reflects on the time she once spent at her
mother's breast, she offers her thoughts on the joys and challenges of
slowly leaving breastfeeding behind. (First edition reviewed in NEW
BEGINNINGS, May-June 1998.)
Ehlert, Lois
EATING THE ALPHABET
Voyager, 1989
Illustrated in Ehlert's bright and appealing style, this book
introduces the family to common and uncommon fruits and vegetables
from A-Z.
Falwell, Cathryn
PJ AND PUPPY
Clarion, 1997
PJ and his new puppy learn about potties, papers, and staying dry.
Colorful drawings, positive message, and simple text are on the
child's level. A fresh approach to the potty discussion.
Falwell, Cathryn
WE HAVE A BABY
Clarion, 1999
Bright, clear drawings of positive family interactions and nursing
baby make this an excellent book for the young child about to become a
big brother or sister. (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, May-June 1998.)
Frankel, Alona
ONCE UPON A POTTY
Harper Collins, 1999
This cute story helps parents to look upon potty training as a
delightful new skill to teach their child, rather than as a necessary,
yet unpleasant task.
Frasier, Debra
ON THE DAY YOU WERE BORN
Harcourt Brace, 1991
This beautifully written children's book celebrates a baby's birth, as
the world around him rejoices. Colorful collages present the many
natural rhythms and cycles that connect the developing baby to the
other inhabitants and physical processes in the world. An appendix
explains the science behind these natural wonders.
Frechtman, Patricia
THE BROWNE TWINS BOOKS
Twin Pleasures Publishing, 1993
Book 1, The Twins' Beginning! tells the story of the news of the
twins' birth. Book 2, The Twins Come Home! tells of life at home for
the Browne family, as the twins keep their parents on the go.
Girard, Linda
WE ADOPTED YOU, BENJAMIN KOO
Albert Whitman, 1992
A loving, reassuring story of interracial adoption and how the family
copes as the child grows and asks about his origins. Benjamin explains
how he feels about being adopted and how exciting it is to welcome his
new sister from Brazil.
Girard, Linda
YOU WERE BORN ON YOUR VERY FIRST BIRTHDAY
Albert Whitman, 1992
Tells the story of an expectant mother waiting for the birth of her
child. It explains the process of the baby growing inside the mother,
the sounds and feelings the baby experiences, and the joy the family
feels when the baby is born. (Reviewed in New Beginnings, July-Aug
1992.)
Harris, Robie, illustrations by Michael Emberley
HAPPY BIRTH DAY
Candlewick Press, 1996
This beautifully illustrated book tells a child about how he was born.
It shows the loving interaction of both mother and father with the
newborn. Mother is shown breastfeeding the baby. The overall message
is how much this baby is loved.
(Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, May-June 1998.)
Hines, Anna
BIG LIKE ME
Greenwillow, 1989
A charming story of big brother introducing his new sibling to the
delights of his first year. Baby is shown breastfeeding and riding in
a soft baby carrier. (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, May-June 1998.)
Knight, Margery Burns
WELCOMING BABIES
Tilbury House, 1998
A children's book that adults will enjoy. Welcoming Babies portrays
family and community traditions for celebrating the arrival of a baby.
Colorful, multicultural illustrations. (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS,
May-June 1998.)
Krauss, Ruth
YOU'RE JUST WHAT I NEED
Harper Collins, 1999
The strength of the mother-child bond is reinforced in this account of
a delightful game of hide-and-seek. The soft, life-like illustrations
add to the coziness of the text.
Manning, Mick
SUPERMOM
Albert Whitman, 2001
With humorous and comforting illustrations, this book talks about many
ways human and animal mothers care for their babies. The emphasis is
on gentleness and holding, and it ends with the sentiment that "all
moms are Supermoms!" Includes an index about how animal mothers care
for their babies to provide details for curious toddlers and
preschoolers. Ages 2-5.
Martin, Chia
WE LIKE TO NURSE
Hohm, 1994
Large, bright pictures and short, simple sentences present
breastfeeding as a natural part of life for many different kinds of
animals--and human "animals," too. (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS,
May-June 1998.)
Marzollo, Jean
MAMA, MAMA
Harper Festival, 1999
A beautifully illustrated board book that is perfect to read to the
very youngest nursling.
Marzollo, Jean
PAPA, PAPA
Harper, 2000
While breastfeeding does not appear in this board book, the
illustrations and text repeatedly reinforce the importance of the
father to a child's attachment and sense of self. Few children's books
emphasize the father's role in child rearing. Here, fathers teach baby
birds to sing and keep baby penguins warm, along with building new
dams for baby beavers.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
LULLABIES
MMA & Gulliver, 1997
This special songbook presents lullabies from around the world paired
with beautiful fine art reproductions from the collection of the
Metropolitan Museum in New York, USA. Includes musical arrangements
for piano and guitar.
Michels-Gualtieri, Akaela
I WAS BORN TO BE A SISTER
Platypus Media, 2001
For the child in your life with a new baby sister or brother, this
colorful picture book depicts the stages that an older sister goes
through with a younger sibling: the new adventure stage, the tortured
by a toddler stage, and finally, the friendship stage. Also includes a
song with accompaniment just for sisters. Ages 3-7. (Reviewed in NEW
BEGINNINGS, Jan-Feb 2003.)
Michels, Dia
IF MY MOM WERE A PLATYPUS: Animal Babies and Their Mothers
Platypus Media, 2001
A fascinating introduction to the world of mammals. Learn about the
birth and early stages of development of 14 different mammals,
including the hooded seal, the pacific gray whale, the polar bear, and
the human. Breastfeeding is simply a normal way of life for the
creatures featured in this engaging, encyclopedic animal book. Ages
6-12.
Michels, Dia
LOOK WHAT I SEE! WHERE CAN I BE? In the Neighborhood
Platypus Media, 2001
In the Neighborhood follows a baby around town and captures the life
of a family which practices attachment parenting as they shop, go to
the doctor, and visit an aquarium. While the colorful pictures are
ideal for babies, the guess game of where the baby goes next will keep
toddlers entertained as well.
Michels-Gualteri, Akaela
I WAS BORN TO BE A SISTER
Platypus Media, 2001
For the child in your life with a new baby sister or brother, this
colorful picture book depicts the stages that an older sister goes
through with a younger sibling: the adventure stage, the tortured by a
toddler stage, and finally, the friendship stage. Also includes a song
with accompaniment just for sisters. Ages 3-7. (Reviewed in NEW
BEGINNINGS, Jan-Feb 2003.)
Moen, Cecilia
BREASTMILK MAKES MY TUMMY YUMMY
Midsummer Press, 1999
A delightful child-sized view of the joys of breastfeeding!
Myers, Anne Marie
MAMA MEANS MILK
Self-published, 2001
A children's book that shows babies nursing in a variety of situations
and demonstrates that breastfeeding is about much more than food. This
book is especially valuable for its focus on toddler nursing.
Overend, Jenni
WELCOME WITH LOVE
Kane/ Miller, 1999
First published in Australia, Welcome with Love is a warm look at
homebirth from big brother Jack's perspective. The family and midwife
are very much involved as the mother does the hard work of giving
birth to a baby boy. The book ends with a lovely illustration of the
whole family tucked up together for the night. Each stage of labor and
delivery is shown with graphic, but not frightening illustrations and
explanations. May be too explicit for some tastes.
Palmer, Pat
I WISH I COULD HOLD YOUR HAND: A Child's Guide to Grief and Loss
Impact, 1994
I Wish I Could Hold Your Hand explores a child's experience of grief
in a variety of circumstances, such as a friend or family member
moving away or the death of a pet or relative. By validating
children's feelings, Dr. Palmer encourages a compassionate discussion
between children and adults on this difficult subject.
Pinczuk, Jane
MICHELE THE NURSING TODDLER: A Story of Growing Up
LLLI, 1998
This sweet story with beautiful watercolor illustrations tells about
the many things Michele can do as she grows up. Through all of her
adventures, Michele can always return to the warmth of her mother's
arms and the love of her family.
Prytherch, Sandra
FOOD FROM MOMMY
self-published, 2001
Precious story of a little girl's development from birth to weaning,
describing the gradual progression from exclusive breastfeeding to
first foods and on to a gradual weaning. A tale of weaning from a
child's perspective, with black and white Japanese-style
illustrations.
Purnell-O'Neal, Mishawn
THE WONDERS OF MOTHER'S MILK
Self-Published, 2005
The Wonders of Mother's Milk is a multicultural information book for
the 5 plus age group that presents a positive view of breastmilk and
breastfeeding. Children will love the illustrations of families going
about their days with mother nursing close by.
Rotner, Shelley and Sheila Kelly
ABOUT TWINS
Dorling Kindersley, 1999
Brilliant, striking photographs and easy-to-understand text celebrate
the many feelings that twins and their siblings have about themselves
and others. It is affirming to twins and informing to those who love
them.
Salt, JS , ed.
ALWAYS KISS ME GOODNIGHT: Instructions for Raising Perfect Parents
Crown, 1997
Parenting wisdom from 147 children who offer drawings and their own
words in response to the question, "If I could tell my parents how to
raise me, I'd tell them..." Candid, warm, and inspiring.
Schlein, Miriam
THE WAY MOTHERS ARE
Albert Whitman, 2000
This classic storybook tells the tale of a little kitten who explains
why his mother always loves him ... even if he's naughty and
especially when he's nice. Black and white color illustrations.
(Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, July-Aug 1992.)
Scott, Ann
ON MOTHER'S LAP
Houghton Mifflin, 1992
The warm, expressive illustrations of an Eskimo family combined with a
gently repetitive text will reassure preschoolers that "there is
always room on Mother's lap," even if the lap must be shared with a
new sibling. (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, Mar-Apr 1986.)
Sears, William and Martha and Christie Kelly
BABY ON THE WAY
Little Brown, 2001
Delightful childrens' book which helps siblings anticipate the arrival
of a new baby by comparing some of the things a mother experiences
while pregnant and giving birth to experiences a child can easily
relate to. Informative and fun! (Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, Jan-Feb
2003).
Sears, William, Martha Sears & Christie Kelley
EAT HALTHY, FEEL GREAT
Little Brown, 2002
Parent resource, teaching tool, and picture book for 5-9 year olds
gives children the nutrition information they need to choose a
healthful diet. Simple recipes are included as well as illustrations
featuring red-, yellow-, and green-light foods and a happy, warm
attachment-parenting family.
Sears, William, Martha Sears & Christie Kelley
YOU CAN GO TO THE POTTY
Little Brown, 2002
Outstanding picture book and parent resource deals with toilet
learning in a developmentally appropriate way, featuring handy
"answers for the very curious." Charming illustrations reflect
attachment parenting and family-oriented activities.
Skrypuch, Marsha
THE BEST GIFTS
Fitzhenry & Whiteside, 1999
A beautiful children's book featuring glowing watercolor images of
nursing. Born in to a loving family, Sara grows up before our eyes and
passes the priceless gift of breastfeeding on to her own child.
American, Canadian, and Internet breastfeeding resources are included.
(Reviewed in NEW BEGINNINGS, Jan-Feb 2000.)
Towle-Morgan, Stacy
THE CUDDLERS
LLLI, 1993 This children's book captures the warmth and love a family
experiences when children are drawn to the security of their parents'
bed.
Voeterg, Julie
I AM A HOMESCHOOLER
Albert Whitman & Company, 1995
The narrator of this story is a nine-year-old homeschooler. Beautiful
hand-tinted photos add to a charming, informative text about a loving
family going about its day. This day-in-the-life approach supports the
experience of a homeschooled child and also answers many questions
children or parents might have about a homeschooling way of life.
WABA
BREASTFEEDING: NATURE'S WAY
WABA, 1999
A powerful 12-page comic book for children 9 and up which features two
children discussing the importance of breastfeeding and its
environmental impact. One of a kind!
Williams, Vera
MORE MORE MORE, Said the Baby
Greenwillow, 1990
This simple, warmhearted book for toddlers captures the love and
playfulness between the children and their adult playmates.
Wolff, Ashley
ONLY THE CAT SAW
Puffin, 1997
A beautifully illustrated story about a cat who sees the sunset, the
sunrise, the rain, and the mother breastfeeding the baby while
everyone in the family is busy doing other things. (Reviewed in NEW
BEGINNINGS, May-June 1998.)
Yagyu, Genichiro
BREASTS
Krane/ Miller, 1999
Humorous and informative book for children about breasts. We learn how
breasts are formed, how they make milk and why breast milk is so
wonderful for babies.
May be too explicit for some tastes.
Young, Faye
GERALD THE THIRD
LLLI 1977
Delightful children's book about family life and adjusting to a new,
breastfed baby, seen through the eyes of a six-year-old. (Out of
print.)
--
Dorothy
There is no sound, no cry in all the world
that can be heard unless someone listens ..
The Outer Limits