If you're looking for an alternative to traditional age appropriate strategies, then you may want to consider gentle parenting. Gentle parenting is all about creating a nurturing relationship between parent and child that encourages open communication, mutual respect for both sides and empathy towards the other's needs—all while keeping toddler discipline positive.
But if you're new to this approach, it can be hard to know where exactly to start. That’s why we've rounded up our top 5 best books on gentle parenting journey to help guide your journey with your kiddos in raising happy kids, confident so little kids in a kind-hearted way.
Whether you prefer interactive storybooks, helpful how-tos or touching personal essays there's something here for everyone so keep reading.
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How We Choose The Best Gentle Parenting Books
When it comes to selecting the best gentle parenting book, we looked at a variety of factors. We took into account the book's overall message and themes, how well it was reviewed by readers, what topics it covered and other important criteria like author credentials.
Ultimately, we made our picks based on the books that could be most helpful for peaceful parent seeking an alternative to traditional parenting strategies. Also, we didn't limit ourselves to just books—we also included interactive storybooks, helpful how-tos and touching personal essays. And with that, here are our top 5 best books on gentle parenting.
The Danish Way of Parenting
Why It's Our Top Pick
This book is a fantastic read for anyone looking to learn more about gentle parenting, with practical advice and examples on how to effectively implement the principles into their parenting style. The authors—Jessica Joelle Alexander and Iben Sandahl— are both wellness experts from Denmark, so they provide an authentic and insightful perspective of the Danish way of parenting.
Moreover, the book was extremely well-received by readers with numerous glowing reviews. The authors also have a website with additional resources and activities to help parents apply the principles of gentle parent. So, if you're looking for a comprehensive guide to gentle parenting, this is it.
All The Details
The Danish Way of Parenting is a book that helps parents understand and implement the parenting strategies used by Danish families to raise their children, leading to some of the happiest kids in the world.
This book lays out six essential principles (P-A-R-E-N-T) that focus on topics such as play and development, authentic communication, reframing, empathy, using no ultimatums, and togetherness. The book includes practical advice and examples to help parents understand and embrace the Danish way of parenting.
Raising Good Humans
Why It's Our Top Pick
This book is essential reading for parents who are looking to learn more about gentle parenting and mindful communication. Raising Good Humans focuses on breaking the cycle of reactive parenting and helping parents raise kind, confident kids.
It offers practical strategies on how to respond thoughtfully in moments of stress and cultivate respectful communication. Also, the author, Carla Naumburg, is a parenting expert and has been featured in numerous publications such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
All The Details
The Raising Good Humans is a comprehensive guide book for parents who want to use gentle parenting techniques. It helps readers understand the importance of using mindfulness and compassionate communication when interacting with their children, as well as how to manage their own emotions in stressful situations.
This book also provides insight on how generational patterns can affect parenting styles, and offers practical strategies for breaking free from unhelpful habits.
The Importance of Being Little
Why It's Our Top Pick
The Importance of Being Little is an important read for parents who want to understand the importance of early childhood development through gentle parenting. This book explores how different learning environments, such as school and home, can affect a child's development and emotional wellbeing.
It also offers practical advice on how to create nurturing spaces that support children in growing their emotional intelligence. Additionally, the author, Erika Christakis, is an expert in early childhood development and has been featured in various publications such as The New York Times.
All The Details
The Importance of Being Little: What Young Children Really Need from Grownups, written by Erika Christakis and published in 2017, is an essential read for parents (and caregivers) who want to understand more about gentle parenting.
Christakis looks at a wide range of topics related to raising young children from the language they use to the way they express themselves and build emotional bonds and the book serves as an insightful guide on how to create a nurturing environment that encourages learning and growth. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about gentle parenting.
How to Stop Losing Your Sh*t with Your Kids
Why It's Our Top Pick
If you’re looking for a practical guidebook on how to embrace gentle parenting and manage your own emotions, then How to Stop Losing Your Sh*t with Your Kids is a must-have. Written by Carla Naumburg, this book draws upon evidence-based practices and provides an insight-packed plan for parents that want to become calmer and happier.
It offers a compassionate, yet realistic approach that helps readers gain self-compassion and an action plan for staying calm in stressful family moments.
All The Details
How to stop losing your cool with your kids can feel like a thing of the past when you ahere to the easy-to-follow steps in How to Stop Losing Your Sh t with Your Kids. Written by parenting expert, Laurie A. Naumburg, this book will give you a fresh perspective on how to manage difficult and emotional moments.
The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read
Why It's Our Top Pick
If you’re looking for a book that can provide an understanding of the most important and challenging relationships in your life, then The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) is a must-read.
Written by leading psychotherapist Philippa Perry, this book explores how different learning environments and how the relationships within them can affect emotional wellbeing. It also offers practical advice on how to create nurturing spaces that support children in growing their emotional intelligence.
All The Details
The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) is an international bestseller by leading psychotherapist Philippa Perry. In the book, Philippa provides invaluable advice and realistic tips on how to nurture relationships with the children and partners.
Drawing from her vast experience as a psychotherapist, she offers insight into understanding how the upbringing has shaped us and provides guidance on how to handle our child's feelings in a constructive and gentle way. She also provides advice on communication, discipline, understanding emotions, and the importance of self-care for the parents.
Best Gentle Parenting Books FAQs
Is gentle parenting the same as attachment parenting?
Gentle parenting and attachment parenting are similar in many ways, but there are a few key differences. Attachment parenting focuses more on physical closeness such as co-sleeping and baby carrying, while gentle parenting places an emphasis on emotional connection and communication.
Should I read more than one book on gentle parenting?
Reading multiple books on gentle parenting children can be beneficial, as it allows you to get a range of perspectives and advice. Plus, many of the topics covered in these books are complex and require some time to digest – so having multiple sources of information can help you understand each topic better.
What is the best book on gentle parenting?
That really depends on your specific needs, but we believe any of our top five picks are a great place to start.
Are there any online resources for gentle parenting?
Absolutely! There are plenty of online resources, such as blogs and websites, dedicated to gentle parenting. These can be a great way to learn more about the approach and get access to helpful tips and advice.
Do I need to read all the books on gentle parenting?
No, you don't have to read every book on the topic. Start with one or two that interest you and go from there. The more you read and research, the better equipped you'll be when it comes to implementing gentle parenting techniques in your home.
Does gentle parenting require specific techniques?
Yes, gentle parenting does require certain techniques, such as active listening and responding empathically. Additionally, it's important to set clear boundaries and expectations while being understanding of your child's needs.
Who should read books on gentle parenting?
Gentle parenting is suitable for all parents and caregivers, so anyone who has an interest in learning more about this approach could benefit from reading a book or two.
What topics are covered in books on gentle parenting?
Books on gentle parenting typically focus on topics such as discipline, communication, respect for both parties, and setting clear boundaries. They also cover topics like dealing with tantrums, understanding your child's emotions, how to create a nurturing relationship between parent and child, and more.
What are the benefits of gentle parenting?
The main benefit of gentle parenting is that it creates an environment where both parties feel respected, valued, and heard. It also encourages open communication and understanding, which can help strengthen the parent-child relationship. Additionally, gently parenting allows parents to implement positive discipline parenting books discipline techniques that focus on teaching rather than punishment.
How can I make sure I'm following gentle parenting principles?
The most important thing is to be mindful of your words and actions, as well as how you respond to your child's needs. Additionally, it can be helpful to take time for self-reflection or talk with a trusted friend or family member so you can get their perspective on how you're parenting.
Best Gentle Parenting Books For You
All in all, if you want to become the best parent possible and need a helping hand navigating the parenting process -- be sure to check out the Top 5 Best Gentle Parenting Books recommended here.
They each offer remedies on how to minimize punitive approaches while emphasizing respect and positivity as central tenets of good behavior management in children.
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