What To Look For
Thousands of books have been written about the proper way to raise a child, many espousing contradictory approaches. This can make finding the right books a daunting challenge. For best results, check the credentials of the person writing the book. For example, if you're looking for a book about the psychology of infants, check to see if the author has a Ph.D in a relevant field. Also, read the blurbs on the cover to see if reputable publications or well-known people vouch for the book's quality.
Common Pitfalls
Some books on child rearing are too clinical or academic, using language and dropping psychological theories that you'd need a graduate degree in psychology to interpret. Others have the opposite problem, using anecdotal evidence and home-spun wisdom in place of empirical research and critical insight. Try to find a book that strikes a balance, one that is both readable and academically rigorous.
Where To Buy
Child rearing books are available at almost any non-specialty bookstore, both on line and off line, such as Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble. Many stores will have a section devoted exclusively to parenting. In addition, some baby supply stores will also stock a cache of popular titles. If possible, shop off line so you can flip through the books before you purchase them.
Cost
Prices of parenting books range from between $10 and $20 for paperbooks and about twice as much for hardcovers. For example, a paperback of "What to Expect the First Year" by Heidi Murkoff can be purchased from Barnes & Noble's online store for $12.20, while a hardcover of "Parenting with Love and Logic: Teaching Children Responsibility" by Foster Cline and Jim Fay has a list price of $24.99.
Comparison Shopping
While some books, such as Dr. Benjamin Spock's "The Commonsense Book of Baby and Child Care" may act as a general guide to parenting children, most books on parenting have a specific focus. Some may focus on a particular age range, such as "Your Baby and Child : From Birth to Age Five" by Penelope Leach. Consider your needs before making a selection.
Accessories
Childcare books are generally stand-alone items, containing ideas that parents can incorporate in their child rearing without the need for additional purchases. However, some books may suggest items that parents should purchase to help raise their child, such as toys, books and certain types of food. Consult the books of your choice for information on items necessary to be a good parent.
Insider Tips
The first sentence of Dr. Spock's classic tome reads "Relax. You know more than you think you do." While parenting can be greatly abetted by the purchasing of child rearing books, its no a replacement for natural instinct.
