Being There: Why Prioritizing Motherhood in the First Three Years Matters

I hesitated to order this book because as a mom who works full-time "outside the home", I wasn't interested in adding to my mom guilt. I am glad that I finally ordered it! Although, yes, the author emphasizes the importance of "being there" for your children's first 3 years (soundly based in scientific research, not moralistic ideals), she also recognizes the reality of modern life (families with two dads, families with single moms who must work outside the home, families with a father and mother who both must work outside the home, adoptive families, etc.) and shows how these parents can also be present for their kids in impactful ways. It also helps to explain some behaviors that may be seen in older kids, but avoids sounding judgmental. I would recommend that moms this book during pregnancy if at all possible, and that they (and any other parental figure) otherwise read it as soon as possible--even if your children are older.