The Complete Book of Christian Parenting and Child Care: A Medical and Moral Guide to Raising Happy Healthy Children

Our family enjoyed this book for several reasons. It is a biblically based book that speaks not only how to raise children to know and love Christ, but also spells out the spiritual role for both mom and dad. It discusses in length the importance of attachment parenting and the benefits of the nursing relationship with mother and child. It was so helpful for us to read this book because we focused on getting to know our son instead of applying a list of do's and don'ts to his sleeping and eating patterns. Dr. Sears also offers great suggestions, but I love that he recognizes there every baby is different and there is not "one" right way to raise children

I am so thankful I discovered this book! After being given the "Babywise" books before I had my first child, I quickly realized, especially after he was born, that there must be another way, something that was right for our family and for my child. So often as I've read this book, I find myself saying "That is so true," as the Sears' statements echo my own heart in raising my children., i.e., that we have a responsibility to be "God with skin on" to our children so that eventually they will seek the God that we reflect to them. I think what I appreciate most about this book, aside from the Sears' obvious love for God and for children, is that they are not dogmatic about their advice. Yes, they advocate certain parenting practices, but they never claim that theirs is the only way, or even "God's way." They acknowledge that others may be led to do things differently and that while they may not agree (e.g. about spanking), that leading can be valid. They continually reaffirm parents' abilities to discover what's right for their own children by learning their children and by following the leading the Lord gives them, regardless of what "everyone else" seems to be doing. Reading this book will remind you of why you became a parent -- I recommend it before your children are even born, if possible!

This book is extremely well-rounded and gives excellent sections on pregnancy, becoming a father, discipline, sibling rivalry, childhood sexuality development, and of course baby care. The Sears are parents of eight themselves and their experience shows. I especially like the Bible verses that they list on how God responds to his children's cries, and how they gently refute (without naming names) the Babywise tenets. I respect their credentials and their commitment to high-quality parenting, and I think this book is a great way to get on the right track from pregnancy onward.

In this age of "Do it this way or you are sinning" the Sears offer a common-sense yet Scriptural approach to pregnancy and parenting. As always, it is clear that they don't think their's is the only way to do things, and encourage you to adapt to your own baby and circumstances. I found their strong Biblical, yet non-judgmental approach inspired and refreshing.I love it that they tell the truth about what God actually said to Eve in Genesis 3:16, where the original text has been distorted and affected our whole birth culture. What freedom there is to know that Eve was NOT cursed to pain in childbirth, but was told that she would have to work hard to give birth, the same as Adam would have to work hard to get food from the ground.As a Christian childbirth educator and labor support specialist, I recommend this book before all others except the Bible. Even if you are reading other Christian parenting books, please read this one to get a different point-of-view.

This is a wonderful guide for Christian parents. I refer to it daily. Dr. Sears has obviously practiced what he preaches and his approach is wonderful. His love for children is genuine, and all of his advice is backed up by not only medical knowledge but also sound Biblical teachings.