Anne Diamond on the topic of Parenting 'Gurus'

[MmeLindt]

In the DM

It is tragic that the recommendation of letting babies sleep on their tummies led to 2000 babies a year dying from cot death in the 80s and early 90s.

How many of you have books on parenting, and do you follow them?

I had a pregnancy and birth book, by Sheila Kitzinger but it stopped at about 12 weeks I think.

And a breast feeding book.

Had a glance through Raising Boys.

I read every single parenting book apart from GF (was already an MNer and this was backed up by my friend pulling a face as she mentioned it ) by the time I had my baby I'd forgotten most of it and relied on MN

yes, actually that;s really impressive
And makes me at DH's aunt who scornfully shouted "ooh there are so many rules today, just do what you think best" about this very issue

That figure shocked me too. I think she has a point that some expert advice can be dangerous.

this book

here

is very good on the history of childcare advice

and makes you realise that no-one has the right answer

Post to read later.

That book looks interesting Foosa.

Reality
What shocked me is that 4 or 5 babies were dying every day due to the recommendation that they should sleep on their tummies.

Mme You're right, its beyond shocking. Thank god for the 'back to sleep' campaign.

I have to say though that I have GF (4 of her books actually) and Tracey Hogg (2 of her books) and they have been my saving grace. I think though, like everything in life, you have to look at them as a guide. You read it, with a good head on your shoulders, recognise what/which bits won't work for you with your 'mummy style' and use the bits you like.

Getting DD into a nice, easy going schedule of a day was the only way for me to cope with her colic and get her sleeping it really was a lifesaver. Did I make sure I had a glass of water at 8.15pm on the dot everyday, no - I'm a big girl and can decide for myself when I'm thirsty!!

I haven't bought any other books because I think if you by too many and the parenting style is different in all of them you don't know whether you are coming or going. Once you find one you like and think suits you, stick with it.

Mind you, I know loads of mums who don't have any and just feel their way through the baby years.

I remember when Anne lost her son. I was living abroad but buying an English paper and the photo of the tiny coffin was just heartbreaking. Anne should be very proud that she has helped to save many thousands of babies when she must have been distraught.