The Nurture Method: Mindful Parenting with Babies

“Parenting is a skill and, like anything else, parents need to learn the skills to be present,” according to this empowering guide from podcaster Ambrose (Peaceful Mama) and yoga teacher Joy (Keep This Off the Record). They define mindfulness as “a practice that helps you become aware of all things that you are sensing, thinking, and feeling while also staying balanced and choosing how you respond.” Explaining how to apply it to parenting an infant, they identify three core principles of mindfulness—stillness, observation, and intention—and tout the power of breathing and songs. For example, they show that research suggests music is beneficial for babies and may lead to improved cognitive development and enhanced language skills. Ambrose and Joy also provide helpful suggestions for common challenges in the “What to do when...” section, which urges readers to try a technique called “Bumble Bee Breathing,” which involves humming while exhaling, if their baby won’t stop crying; not only will it “help calm you, but the funny sound might be just the distraction your little one needs.” The authors compassionately remind readers that mindfulness and nurturing grow with practice, refuting the illusion that perfect parenting should come naturally. This is worth a look. (Aug.)