The Natural Baby: A Holistic Guide to Caring for Your Newborn

by Janet Balaskas

Book Overview

Balaskas, founder of the International Active Birth Movement and bestselling author, presents a comprehensive step-by-step guide to providing natural and holistic care during the first year of a... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1589230183
• ISBN13: 9781589230187
• Release Date: November 2001
• Publisher: Creative Publishing International
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 7.5" x 9.7"

Customer Reviews

Great, simple, encouraging book - European perspective

This is just an awesome little book - one that I'm so glad I stumbled on accidentally! Due to the smaller size of the book, it's not as in-depth as others, but I actually found that refreshing. After reading all the detailed books that tend to characterize the subject of natural birth/parenting, this book was like a cool drink of water. Although an overview, it gives a very helpful amount of information about even "lesser-known" infant care ideas, such as elimination communication, baby massage, homeopathic/herbal remedies, and much more. From the style and design of the book to it's beautiful photography (which truly make the book: DK style - multiple photos on each page), each page reminds you of the simple beauty of new life. Janet Balaskas is truly an expert in her field, and her writing style is both informative and encouraging. I only wish I lived in the United Kingdom, where her perspective is the norm, instead of here on the other side of the pond, where even mentioning "natural birth" still elicits all sorts of cynical comments. A truly great book, and one that I highly recommend to any parent interested in giving birth and caring for their baby in the most instinctive, natural, and loving way possible. Some of the subjects covered include: Life before birth The last weeks of pregnancy Approaching birth Meeting your baby First hour after birth The babymoon Preparing to breastfeed Learning breastfeeding together Baby-led feeding Solving problems Bottle-feeding for those unable to breastfeed Approaches to baby care Comforting your baby Elimination Step-by-step baby massage (with step-by-step pictures!) Baby development and play Sensory awakening Social baby Sitting, crawling, walking, talking, swimming How babies sleep A baby-centered sleep approach Nighttime environment Settling your baby for sleep Family life Well mother Partner relationship Sibling relationships Parenting support Natural healthcare for your baby Complementary therapies (includes general information on homeopathic & herbal remedies and aromatherapy suggestions, and then specific remedies/suggestions are listed for all the health concerns below) Caring for a sick baby Allergies & respiratory problems Ear & eye problems Nutrition & digestion Mouth & teeth Skin problems Childhood infections illnesses Accidents and first aid