What to Expect the Toddler Years

I initially didn't buy this book based on the reviews. But, after I read a little bit of it at the bookstore - I had to get it. I found several of its topics VERY helpful. YES, some things in the book seem like common sense, but with a first child and lack of sleep and so much information out there, it's nice to get a quick, concise OPINION based on the information the authors have. We do not use this book as a bible for raising our child, but we do get some great ideas from it. We have really enjoyed having this book on hand, just as a quick second opinion when it's not something important enough to call the pediatrician. Most of our friends have older children or no children so it's handy to have in the house. We enjoyed the previous two books and have found this one just as helpful.

The authors write the most comprehensive survey of all aspects of parenting a toddler. In particular, I find the advice on behavioral issues so helpful. Something I didn't "expect" to be so enlightening and thorough. The common sense format makes it easy to find exactly what you are looking for. A must for any parent! I'd also like to comment on the customer review from NY dated 1/24. I do not think the author's biases on nursing and self comforting stand out any more than any other author on the wide variety of subjects on children that are out there. We are ALL passionate about raising our children the way we think is best for each and every one of us, including the authors. I'd be surprised if they were NOT apparent. I'm happy to know that you still found it helpful!

Don't be put off by a few negative comments in these reader reviews. There is a reason this series is a national best seller. I have young twins and this book (and the entire series) has been simply invaluable. I use it as a starting point/reference, read a few other books that have different perspectives (I like Penelope Leach but think Dr. Sears is much too liberal for me) and then apply common sense. That is what parenting is all about, right?

I bought WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARE EXPECTING for my first pregnancy and I don't know what I would have done without it. Now my child is 13 months and in "FULL TODDLER MODE"!. WHAT TO EXPECT THE TODDLER YEARS has been right on track for the most part and has given me peace of mind on many subjects such as, When to start the weaning process, The NO,NO,NO Syndrome and baby proofing your home. I take all adivse as sugesstions and apply them to my toddler when approriate. Child rearing is very personal and we all have different ways of going about it. This book is ment to be a guide not the Bible. But it can be very helpful.

If you want to...have a handy reference around for when you've got a question about your kids, this book (and the other title, "What to Expect the First Year"), are solid, well-balanced guides. The information is presented in such a way so that it does not preach, and parents can use their common sense as to how to apply the advice to their situation. As a first time parent, I thought it was nice to have around, and is a lot easier than having to call the pediatrician -- or, worse yet, friends or relatives -- every time you've got a question. With this book, you get the basics and can decide for yourself what to do next without wading through all the guilt or nonsense of everyone else's opinions. Cuts down on the conversations that start, "Well, with *my* kids, I always thought it was best if ..."