First Three Years of Life

This book contains outdated infomation such as using pacifiers and its effect on teeth. I found this book informative and agreed with a lot of the things he had to say such as not letting a baby "cry it out" and explaining the importance of monitoring hearing ability. What I liked about this author is that he accepts differences of opinion of other readers who may disagree with him. The author discusses the role of the father, bonding, toilet training and gives a list of recommended books to read. Some of the things he discusses:Recommended Child-Rearing PracticesLanguage DevelopmentSome Childrearing practices he doesn't recommendHelping the infant develop specific skillsHow to screen for mild to moderate hearing loss in childrenToys he recommends for babies and toddlersTalks a little about the effects of restrictive devices such as playpensObstacles to optimal achievement in the 5 fundamental edcational processesNuturing the Roots of IntelligenceA chart of recommended materials for your child to play with such as pots & pansSibling RivalryDisciplineThe Critical Importance of Hearing Ability which includes a parents' checklist and steps to take if hearing loss is detectedThe Needs of Infants & ToddlersPlay

This book is an absolute must if you'd like to avoid the terrible twos stage. I read this book as well as his other entitled "How to Raise a Happy Unspoiled Child". I followed his guidlines as best as I could and today I credit Burton White for how wonderful my five yr old turned out to be! My son went through what I call the "terrific twos" and people comment on his well-behaved and happy disposition all the time! He teaches you how to "discipline" appropriately according to age without inflicting physical pain to the child. But you must begin by ten months at the latest. Starting early is the secret. Get his books and begin now for the sake of your child's happiness and maturity. Good luck!

Thank goodness I picked this one up. My bookshelf was full of books that were too harsh (like Gary Ezzo on scheduling babies), too condescending ("What to Expect the First Year"), or relied too much on anecdotal research (like "The Baby Book" by William Sears, an otherwise wonderful book). Mr. White's goal is to help you develop your infant into a happy, "delightful" two year old who is a good companion. His methods ring true to one who is very nurturing, but has heard the folk wisdom about spoiling a baby. Do your baby a favor and read either this book or his other, shorter one called "How to Raise A Happy, Unspoiled Child."