Best funny parenting books according to redditors
We found 502 Reddit comments discussing the best funny parenting books. We ranked the 98 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 502 Reddit comments discussing the best funny parenting books. We ranked the 98 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
I always gift expecting parents: (men, women, and everything in-between):
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance
by Louis Borgenicht M.D.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
https://www.amazon.com/How-Marry-Finnish-Girl-Everything-ebook/dp/B006GB4LOS
When one of my friends was having a kid I found this book for him. It amused me.
New dad to a 1 year old here.
Couldn't have the decency to toss a link to the actual book?
Pick up this book immediately: https://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365/ref=sr_1_2?crid=YV792GQITCOB&keywords=dude+youre+going+to+be+a+dad&qid=1554477971&s=gateway&sprefix=dude+you%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-2
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It is really well written and addresses a lot of topics that you should hear about before it becomes an issue.
>modes of operation
This reminded me of the Baby Owner's Manual by Louis Borgenicht.
One section describing the baby's body parts I find particularly humorous.
"Neck: Upon arrival, this feature may appear 'useless.' This is not a defect. The neck will become more useful in two to four months."
Highly recommended.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_HOrIyb6XKAPWM
Have you seen the book The Baby Owner's Manual? Your post reminded me of it!
I'm partial to the baby's owner manual. Mostly because it treats it like a car or electronic purchase (ie: troubleshooting, first year maintenance, etc). Keeps the info light and fun.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
Highly recommended source: Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads
Check out the Baby Owners Manual. It's informative, funny, and doesn't make any assumptions about what you already know.
We really like this book:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
My SO has absolutely zero experience with kids or infants and it has really helped him learn a lot and feel very confident. It is written very much like a techincal manual but humorous. I have looked through it also (LOTS of experience with infants here!) and I find the information to be solid and it gets the point across easily.
Butt paste
Burp cloths
Depending on your friend, a book like Geek Dad might be a good advance purchase.
Takeout gift cards
Cereal bars for snacking
NO BLANKETS; NO STUFFED TOYS. Those things breed and you end up with thousands of them. Possible exception: Ugly Dolls.
http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371970870&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+manual
>I want to make sure that when my SO looks back on her first pregnancy, that she sees me right by her side.
Dude, that was heartwarming AS FUCK. I'd say you're already on a pretty good track just having that mindset.
I had a really tough first trimester and was having a lot of trouble eating/keeping weight on. Any time I had any little craving my SO made it happen like he was a freakin' genie or something. That was pretty nice. I think a big one is never making her feel like she needs to rationalize anything to you, whether it's a craving or a bad mood. Let her complain, be that sounding board.
And here are two books I'm really liking:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580054846/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687662&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=1594745978&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=01MTWYFH3MCT00RNPVJS
Congrats on the upcoming addition to you both. :)
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year. So I haven't read a whole lot of this book yet, but from what I've read so far I really enjoy it. It mixes in some humor with a lot of great information. I saw it recommended in another thread on /r/predaddit and decided to purchase it.
Let's Panic About Babies!: How to Endure and Possibly Triumph Over the Adorable Tyrant Who Will Ruin Your Body, Destroy Your Life, Liquefy Your Brain, ... Turn You into a Worthwhile Human Being
>he is fairly nonplussed and doesn't really seriously discuss it with me
This is going to be your biggest hurdle, you need to have an open line of communication. We don't have a perfect marriage by any means, but we've been together for 5 years (baby status I know) but we don't fight. We communicate and have discussions, it makes a HUGE difference and keeps stress levels WAY down now that I'm pregnant.
Anyway. I got him the book, Dude, You're Gonna Be A Dad. He's really enjoyed reading it. It goes through a lot of what to expect during each trimester, how to prepare for baby care, and most importantly (to me) momma care. It explains what we're going through physically and emotionally. It does a really nice job laying things out in terms that guys can relate to, or at least as closely as possible.
My husband is not much of a reader and likes things straight-forward. So i got him this: https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978 and he loves it.
I'd also recommend The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance and the Caring for Your Baby and Young Child book by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Oh... and Happiest Baby on the Block. I didn't read it... we watched the video instead. Really good advice for calming newborns.
Wherever the jew roams he always brings his filthy agenda of miscegenation and mud mixing. Check this; a how to guide for muds on how to pick up Finnish Girls. Written by the jew Phil Schwarzmann.
http://www.amazon.com/How-Marry-Finnish-Girl-Everything-ebook/dp/B006GB4LOS
Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
A bit more clinical, and more information (IMO) than "what to expect..."
Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads
AWESOME book for dads (me included). Similar info, but much lighter, and easier to read.
Excellent advice from people here. I'd also suggest that you and mom both take a parenting class. Kids are baffling for experienced adults. A good parenting class is extremely helpful for a new parent. Oh, also this book: https://smile.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547?sa-no-redirect=1
They are from a book called Safe Baby Pregnancy Tips by David and Kelly Sopp. They make another one for newborns called Safe Baby Handling Tips
I buy these for my friends when they are expecting their first child.
It gets better. At 3 months you leave the "OH MY GOD WILL IT BREAK IF I HOLD IT? IS IT BREATHING? I NEED TO CHECK." stage. At that point you don't wake up every 5 minutes to check on them if they don't cry. You think: "Oh thank goodness, they're sleeping for more than 5 minutes"
You should get this book, it's awesome.
Haven’t dug into this yet but I bought it specifically because it is structured like an owner’s manual:
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance (Owner's and Instruction Manual) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_kMH6Cb98YH7AT
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance (Owner's and Instruction Manual) on Amazon
Let's check...
My brother got me this book it's a baby instruction manual.
http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
I ordered the manual separately for my husband. He needed one with pictures.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1594745978
And speaking of books, The Baby Owner's Manual is really all you need. Most of baby books are biased as hell, this is crap free.
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12753543-how-to-marry-a-finnish-girl
https://www.amazon.com/How-Marry-Finnish-Girl-Everything-ebook/dp/B006GB4LOS
Agree with this. Also enjoyed Be Prepared.
I wasn't that interested in those things while my wife is pregnant either; it doesn't mean he won't be a great dad. I would recommend making sure you have a cushion in savings to fall back on when the diapers and formula (?) takes its toll on your finances.
Hospitals in our city offered free parenting classes that I'd recommend he sign up for. It gives critical knowledge for first-time fathers, and also helps make it a little more real.
Buy him this book. It was the one parenting book I was able to read that didn't read like a wimpy-ass man warning another man about his wife and future being taken away. It was funny and informative, and very light reading.
It didn't become totally real for me as a father until my baby was on her way out. She's the greatest person in the world to me, and nothing will change that.
Congrats and good luck to you both!
Congratulations!!!
First off just pause your fears for just a moment and take in the feeling and enjoy it!
Second - Be there for her as much as you can, that’s your ‘other’ job now.
READ as much as you can - I like this book - Dude, You're Gonna Be a Dad!: How to Get (Both of You) Through the Next 9 Months https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1440505365/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wRKEAb01K29SE
Watch YouTube videos - go to the appointments, ask questions, just overall be involved. Ask questions here! Read a lot of the posts - I’ve learned a lot from just being involved here.
You’re going to be fine - just enjoy the moment. I think everyone, myself included are going through a bunch of WTF holy shit moments.
Welcome to the club dude!
That's an unfortunate reaction from your husband. He probably doesn't understand that being supportive means being proactive.
I was browsing Amazon today for some journals and landed on this https://www.amazon.ca/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365. I'm tempted to get it for my husband this Father's day, but I'm not gonna lie, it's a bit of a gamble, given his reaction so far, though I'm hoping the humorous tone will lessen the blow of the "lessons". The fact that the author is a man might help with that (husband dealt a lot better with the news after he spoke with a newly minted dad about it).
This one is pretty good - it's a good "dad" book, and keeps things pretty straightforward but in a fun way. It's not the most detailed book (I don't think it covered things like sleep regression) but it might be a start? http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
The Baby Owner's Manual:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_8EvQwb5MKDQYT
The scary thing is it's actually really well made and has a load of well thought out information.
One of my favorite gifts was The Baby Owner's Manual, which gives practical advice on being a dad to an infant in terms similar to those used in car-repair books. (How to change a diaper, etc)
The Baby Owner's Manual is fun and informative. We have a copy that we both read before our baby arrived.
http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Panic-About-Babies-Worthwhile/dp/031264812X
I believe there is a reference to vaginas turning into Dresden in this book.
The Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy was by far my favorite. I thought it was going to be dry and medical, but it had everything I was looking for. I found "What to Expect" to be a little disorganized and kind of scary, but I know a lot of women like it.
We also really like Be Prepared, which is really a dad book but I enjoyed as well. It's lighthearted and easy to read in quick segments, but has a lot of good info.
Online, I really like the Babycenter.com community because it has so many people... almost any question I have has already been asked and answered, so I find lots of answers. If your town has a chapter of the Mommies Network you'll absolutely get great info there, and meet local parents/parents-to-be. Finally, if you're breastfeeding, Kellymom is a must.
Whew! Hope those help!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0743251547/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apis_1491009224831
This book is incredible for that! It has step by step how to do everything, and its funny without being demeaning about how useless dads are (like so many others). I bought it for my SO but use it for quick reference myself! Even my MIL wanted a copy!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0743251547/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_UzDIzb2GH5D2E
>Because bodily autonomy is absolute
Well can you give me any good reason to believe in that conviction? Because that seems like the only backbone of the argument that you are trying to present.
As a side-note, did you know that a baby passes beneficial cells to the mother aiding her healing and makes her stronger in almost every way for all of her life.
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance.
S’ok, you can always buy it from Amazon if you’re too tired for the ceremony:
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
(I have this book, it’s pretty funny, but not sure how much better it really is than flying by the seat of your pants)
Easiest recommendation I've ever made, Dr. Louis Borgenicht. He is a great guy, funny as can be and fits your last criteria by being Jewish. Here is a link to a book he wrote and a video he did for, "Old Jews telling jokes." He is a great doctor and a very good person.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTF6dOJmxqw
If you have the mind of an engineer or programmer, this.
How did you react? When my wife woke me up I just replied, "me too thanks." I don't have much of a brain until about noon.
Decent book. Also check out this one. Seems goofy but was super fact heavy and spoke to me in a language i both found humorous and easy to read.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
Baby owners manual
Baby Manual
The Baby Owner's Manual - I loved this book and found it to be useful as well as entertaining. One thing I found out pretty quickly, however, is that your baby is unique and is not necessarily going to follow some book(s) you read.
My husband read Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads He thought it was very informative without being overly serious.
Friend loaned me this. http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Practical-Handbook-Dads/dp/0743251547
Dude, you’re going to be a Dad. Cannot remember the author, but the audiobook narration was solid. Felt super informative too. And has good quotes to start each section.
Edit: Found the link finally after work; Dude, You're Gonna Be a Dad!: How to Get (Both of You) Through the Next 9 Months https://www.amazon.com/dp/1440505365/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xatVBb21N3E69
Also, congratulations!! My wife is 12 weeks today, so I’m interested to see what others here recommend!
Congratulations! Welcome to the journey :D. As far as books go, my husband likes The Expectant Father--it's full of good advice and doesn't treat you like a clueless idiot. For after the baby's born, The Baby Owner's Manual takes a humourous approach to the first year of newborn care.
I'm going to make my husband a shirt that says "copy" and a onesie that says "paste" and [The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_mwzmzbKFYZ7Q4)
I got a great instruction manual with my kid.
Mine loves this one. He loves the silly humor and pictures. It's very informative too.
I agree that hospital parenting classes are the best way to go. But you can also find some books on Amazon or videos on Youtube just by searching things like "new dad tips" or something. Here's a few links; I'm not sure how many are targeted to single dads, though. You may find a lot of references to "your partner" in the books, but there still is some truth to that -- you're not romantic partners, but you still need to be parenting partners.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0743251547?keywords=new%20fathers%20book&qid=1452471002&ref_=sr_1_3&sr=8-3
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0789212137?keywords=new%20fathers%20book&qid=1452471002&ref_=sr_1_4&sr=8-4
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316159956?keywords=new%20fathers%20book&qid=1452471002&ref_=sr_1_7&sr=8-7
http://www.amazon.com/The-New-Father-Guide-Series-ebook/dp/B00VPPYEWY/ref=dp_kinw_strp_1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSfPqgtdmAo
Yes!
The New Dad's Survival Guide
The Baby Owner's Manual
Dad's Playbook
These are all a bit lighter reading, and mind you I do not regret buying them at all. Really useful information in all of them.
Greetings Fellow-predads.
From what I hear from my wife, the "What to expect when you're expecting" book is horrible because it tells you all the things that could potentially be wrong with your baby. Causing all kinds of worrying and stress. She has been sticking mostly to reading the books her Women's clinic has given her (which I don't know what they are called, I can check later.)
The book that I have enjoyed the most so far is called: "She's Having a Baby - and I'm Having a Breakdown" Its a bit of funny, with some good solid dad advice for things you can do during and after the pregnancy.
amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Shes-Having-Baby-Im-Breakdown/dp/0688158250/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394553302&sr=8-2&keywords=The+woman+you+love+is+having+a+baby
Being here is a good start.
My favorite book is She's Having a Baby, I'm Having a Breakdown, but at the end of the day, the advice I've gotten here and just reading back posts has been the most valuable thing.
There is. I even read it. Just didn't realize it would happen to me.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0738210072/ref=redir_mdp_mobile
The only "fatherhood" book I could stand: Be Prepared
The only "baby" book I could stand: (and they have a good Toddler one from the same series)
Baby 411: Clear Answers & Smart Advice For Your Baby's First Year
We just picked up Baby Bargains by Denise and Alan Fields. It seems really helpful - lots of product guides, reviews, and suggestions for first time parents. Again, we just picked it up today so take this for what it's worth, but I'm happy we did and already feel like we've gotten our money's worth.
Edit to add I've heard good things about Experimenting with Babies and Be Prepared, but I haven't looked closely at either one.
Don't worry it's super easy. When they hand you the baby make sure it's head is in the crook of your elbow and then just cradle the bottom. You'll get the hang of it real quick. Ditch all those parenting books, this is what you need.
I rather liked this one:
http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Practical-Handbook-Dads/dp/0743251547/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1324586538&sr=8-2
It's not a kid, it's a baby, and there is a big difference.
The baby is not manipulating them, the baby has only basic needs, at 2 years old they may have some preferences but they don't even realize they can do things to influence others and get what they want. Even a tantrum is usually just having big emotions and no where to go with them.
I'd like to hope that it will be different when it's his own kid, else I'd suggest he starts seeing a therapist now do deal with the trauma of having a newborn at home and a wife that's "on the babies side".
There is a book my husband got that might help? Linky to Amazon
You want this book: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547
My husband and I have both read it at the recommendation of his sister and her husband. It's practical information presented in an entertaining way.
http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Practical-Handbook-Dads/dp/0743251547/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344482516&sr=8-1&keywords=be+prepared
This one. End topic. This is the best book out of the many I read, and it was by far the best.
Oh, and congrats!!
I recommend this book over and over. Reading it was one of the best things I did to settle my nerves and get that peek behind the curtain. I have done many, MANY of the suggestions they outline, and they have never let me down!
I bought my husband Be Prepared, but I'm actually less experienced than him, so I love it too!
Yeah, some of the other subreddits have links to parenting resources, although at a quick glance I did not see anything specifically related to baby proofing, so my bad on that.
I thought the book Be Prepared, A Practical Handbook for New Dads was pretty useful, and it has a good amount of helpful information about what to do before and after the baby arrives through the first year. It's easy to read, with some good humor. Hope that helps.
I saw this online ages ago, then bought the book for my sister when got pregnant (both, of them Safe Baby Handling tips and Safe Baby Pregnancy tips). Who says piracy doesn't sell?
link to book
This is a scan of a book. Safe Baby Handling Tips https://www.amazon.com/dp/0762456582
It's my standard baby shower gift.
"Dude you're gonna be a Dad" has been the most enjoyable to me. http://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365
I just graduated from predaddit to daddit.
Those pregnancy months are intense. The weeks after...even more so. What I would suggest is to assume she is right and work from there. Her brain is going through a ton of changes with hormones that continue on into after the child is born.
One thing to remember is that right now her body is growing a human. It sounds weird, but when I thought about it as, holy crap, she's got a human in there, I pretty much went with her thoughts.
However, names, etc. Definitely have discussions about those things. Some of the ways you used to talk about things, you might have to switch. For example; if you would have said, "That's a dumb name" she might not have reacted at all, now, it might be the thing that sets her off. Think about more diplomatic methods of disagreeing with her.
I statements work for this pretty well. I feel.... or I like...
Be prepared for her to disagree with your suggestions simply on principal.
There is a good book called "Dude, You're Gonna Be a Dad" that might help you.
The two books I've read over the last 9 months are [Baby Meets World] (http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Meets-World-Smile-Toddle/dp/0312591349) and [Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads] (http://www.beprepared.net/). Both have something different to offer.
Baby Meets World uses basic motions a baby makes - suck, smile, touch, and toddle - as launching points for baby care techniques. The author, Nicholas Day, examines current trends and opinions related to breast feeding, swaddling, pacifiers, etc. and historical practices along the same lines. The book is not good at telling parents what to do. It's strength is putting current trends in context, describing human development in the baby months, and offering often funny anecdotes about Day's own experience as a first time father. The big takeaway from the book is there are many ways to care for your child and you're free to choose what is best for your family.
Be Prepared, as the title suggests, is a how to book. Gary Greenberg, author of the Pop Up Book of Nightmares, offers up some something of a Boy Scout Handbook for early fatherhood. His guide is a sequential arc of a baby's development from the [baby's first day] (http://www.beprepared.net/samples_willnwont1.html) through his or her first birthday all with a good sense of humor. Greenberg describes various activities that will be both interesting to dad and help build baby's skills at different stages of development. I wish a second edition would come out to update some of the references, ditch the audio/visual equipment chapter (can be replaced with "Get a smartphone.") and add something about social media. A father friend of mine gave me this book and my wife and I enjoyed reading it on long car trips.
The one book I didn't like was the one my parents gave me: [Dude, You're Gonna Be a Dad!] (http://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365) by John Pfeiffer. I've seen other people recommend it here, but, I really hate the tone of the book. My wife and I started hate reading it and, to Pfeiffer's credit, his writing did spark some important conversations early in the pregnancy. My biggest objection is the author's lazy portrayal of men as oafish self-centered douchebags - the kind that get you lots of karma in /r/cringepics. If the dad to be is an oafish self-centered douchebag, this book is great. The takeaway here is "Stop being a oafish self-centered douchebag! Step up your game and be a dad." I tend to see the men in this sub as already over that obstacle.
TL;DR [Baby Meets World] (http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Meets-World-Smile-Toddle/dp/0312591349) = interesting read. [Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads] (http://www.beprepared.net/) = funny how to guide. [Dude, You're Gonna Be a Dad!] (http://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365) = for douchebags.
The sooner you can set a precedent of cards and small gifts (if your husband feels like he has to do something), the better. For coworkers, cards are enough. For friends and other people for whom I need to get gifts, I've been sending baby keepsake books like this or this [parenting diary] (https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-Club-Baby-Book-Misadventures/dp/145216620X(https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-Club-Baby-Book-Misadventures/dp/145216620X) with the coordinating [comedy book] (https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-Club-Parenting-Milestones-Coming/dp/1452153477/ref=pd_bxgy_14_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1452153477&pd_rd_r=15f6744d-b9cc-11e8-ac55-834a4eb79bb6&pd_rd_w=QHIVR&pd_rd_wg=XtLKf&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3f9889ac-6c45-46e8-b515-3af650557207&pf_rd_r=AGE6YVD8BAZ1TXGNCR39&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=AGE6YVD8BAZ1TXGNCR39) dependent upon whether I think the parents like comedy and what I've gifted in the same social circle. Your husband could talk to a few coworkers who aren't attending to go in on these books together instead of picking a big ticket item from the registry. It would be cheap and take care of the social obligations.
You have more of a relationship problem than an actual problem with life event invitations. If your husband could manage to say no, you wouldn't be forced into a position of buying gifts for people you don't know. You don't actually have to go off of the registry for events, whether it's for family or strangers. Registries make it easy to coordinate, guests don't have to struggle for ideas, and no one has to deal with return receipts or multiples of the same stuff. Inviting coworkers may be a gift grab, but she could honestly think it's the polite thing to do.
Haha. I love these.
Here's a book about parenting milestones you might like!
If you've never read this book, I strongly recommend it:
"Kids Say the Darndest Things", Art Linkletter
It's old, but entirely awesome and full of laughs.
Yes, it's [this one] (https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978)! It's meant to be humorous, but it has a lot of very practical info written in the store or an instruction manual. It's been quite helpful for us, as I too had zero experience with babies before my own arrived. ☺️👍
You should start learning how to be a Dad. First step is not calling Mom a bitch.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1469722044&sr=1-3&keywords=new+dad+gifts
Grats!
We're in our 17th week, so I'm right there with you. I picked up all 3 of these from a local used book store, and I like to read at the same pace as the pregnancy is going because these first 2 are broken up by month.
For you, there's The Expectant Father: Facts, Tips, and Advice for Dads-to-Be. Good book from the father's perspective. Covers the often overlooked male emotional issues that you may go through.
For both of you, there's the Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. Covers a lot of medical and physical issues she'll be going through. Almost like a school textbook, but a good one.
And if you're into geeky and funny, there's The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance. There is some good tips here, but it is humor first and informational second.
Which stupid? Stupid enough to need those instructions or stupid enough to think they're real?
That looks to be from this book which is actually both really funny in some places and really useful in others. Somebody gave it to us when our first was born.
http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
This, the Baby Owners Manual, was probably the most useful and appealing to me. It is presented like an actual manual but the instructions were very easy to understand, had great pictures to accompany the descriptions and appealed to my witty side.
I read this before my son was born and I learnt how to how him, swaddle him and kept it close by for reference most of the time.
I passed it on to a friend when they were expecting and I recommend it a lot.
My husband really liked the baby owners manual. It's funny, succinct but also lots of practical advice
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance (Owner's and Instruction Manual) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.BuADbY4NEDGW
Small gift,
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance (Owner's and Instruction Manual) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_05qnDbJA78KJJ
A cool gift could be his own diaper bag even. Maybe something nice leather with a monogram. Just my two cents, but having a second diaper bag for my card would be nice and easy rather than having to switch back and forth between cars.
Or something that can keep him busy while baby is sleeping and you are napping.
Oh and the Baby Owner's Manual was really good, he liked that one.
I received this with my first kid.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
If he's super into being a new dad maybe get this book. But maybe something really cool and personal that isn't necessarily baby related.
If all else fails a BJ is the best present a guy could receive.
I got the "baby manual" Funny stuff, but contains lots of useful information
Depends on if you want super serious or not. One that somebody gave me when we found out we were expecting our daughter was this:
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_rPM5yb1KDKPRF
My husband is in software so my mom gave him this book: http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
My friend with whom I used to go to happy hour weekly bought me this book: http://www.amazon.com/Moms-Who-Drink-Swear-Loving/dp/045141814X
There is a book called the The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance . In it I learned about sleep patterns of babies and we used their method on both of our kids. Basically what you do is during the day you only let them take very short naps. Like 1-1.5 hours at a time. Basically just annoy them a little bit to get them to open up their eyes... Try and entertain them. Maybe change a diaper... offer a boob/bottle... etc.
What this does is make them naturally realize that they get bothered during the day and will make them more tired at night since they didn't get a full 5+ hour stretch. As you slowly push their sleep a little bit each day in about 1-2 weeks they will be getting their longest nap at night when you want them to. I say nap because let's be real here... damn babies don't sleep like we do.
It also helps to make a grid and track their nap times so you get a better understanding about how long each one is. From this you will quickly realize where you have to wake them up to make it adjust.
The Baby Owners Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance
My favorite three were: Be Prepared, The Expectant Father, and The Dad's Guide to Pregnancy for Dummies. And for laughs, there's always The Bro Code for Parents.
https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Little-Holes-holy-crap-parenting/dp/0062341626/ref=asc_df_0062341626_nodl/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312168322760&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9908976776177679678&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1019888&hvtargid=pla-497293878132&psc=1
Ohhh OK thanks dear! I saw this book and was thinking of buying it for my preg friend lol
I've been thinking about getting this one: http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Panic-About-Babies-Worthwhile/dp/031264812X
I read 'Belly Laughs' by Jenny McCarthy in my first pregnancy. Funny! AND, she tells you all the stuff no one else will, like the goo that comes out of your girl parts and nipples to pooing on the birthing table. Funny stuff. But I am more morbid than serious. Also, it's not an 'informative' book by any means but it rationalized all my fears.
KIDS ARE AWESOME. I get the fear, nothing to be afraid of but no matter what we tell you, you'll still have it. It goes away though.
My bible.
Seriously, get that book. I swear by it. It helped me out so much. It's humorous but very educational and you can read it while you're on the throne. It's at most one or two subjects per page.
Also - don't be afraid to get in there and wipe that dirty butt. It's way easier than you think. But if it's a boy, cover his junk with a towel when you're changing him. The change in air temperature will make him spray like a freaking ocelot. I got piss in my eyes, ears, nose and mouth before I figured out that trick. You'd think it'd be gross but it's not and we laugh about it to this day.
Also, my oldest is almost 5 and his favorite wrestlers are the Usos, New Day and he just discovered Bayley. Youngest just turned 3 and loves Tyler Breeze and Fandango. So, you know there's always that possibility that you will end up with built in wrestling buddies.
Most governments (for sure in Ontario) have programs to provide information and get you as prepared as you're going to be.
I just sent a detailed email to a friend of mine that is expecting as well and was in the same boat as you. Some of the stuff you probably haven't thought about yet, so take what I say below at face value.
Also, to all in the thread, the obvious disclaimer - these are my opinions. You might not agree with them. Also, my email was based on living in Toronto, but you can change to meet your situation
a) To start, there are a multitude of books available, as well as websites. Not to mention that I'm sure you'll be hearing stuff from friends and family. I've found it best to just filter all of that. I read only one book while my wife was pregnant, and that's because it was a good read - http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Meets-World-Smile-Toddle/dp/0312591349 (it's available at Toronto Library, so no need to buy it).
This book is also a pretty good guide - http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547 (again, also at TPL)
Here's what I found with books - Most of them have the same tone when it comes to men - "Dude, no more going out to party, and since you're stupid as hell, here are the basics"
So don't spend too much time reading 1,000,000 different books - it will be repetitive.
b) My wife and I took the prenatal courses at St. Joseph's Hospital. They helped because I learned a lot, and they were great information. Definitely helped put my mind at ease because I really knew nothing about raising a child.
c) Stroller / Car Seat. This is a toughie. Scenarios as follows:
i) Buy a travel system. This is for convenience. It's an infant seat & stroller in one package. You take the infant seat out (with the baby in it) and it locks directly into the stroller. Easy transport, no fuss. Downside - infant seats are only good until they're 6 months old. Then you have to buy another car seat.
ii) Buy the stroller and infant seat separately. Doesn't really make sense to do this, but it's an option.
iii) Buy the stroller and a convertible car seat separately (this is what we did). A convertible car seat covers from 5lb to 70lb, so basically the entire time the child needs a car seat. The downfall with this compared to a travel system is that you have to take your child out of the car seat to bring into the house / put into the stroller / etc. If (s)he's sleeping, there's a chance they'll wake up.
We also bought baby carriers (Ergo Baby, Mobi Wrap) because we live right downtown, so walking around with a baby / taking the TTC with a baby is easier when they're strapped to you.
d) Clothes. Don't spend too much on clothes. There are outfits that cost far too much, and they grow so quick that the item of clothes is only used for 3 - 4 weeks. Plus it's the typical baby shower gift, so expect to get a bunch of clothes.
e) Feeding - know that it will be hard, whatever avenue your wife goes down. Just know that whatever she chooses, you need to support her and remind her to stick through it because whether it's formula or breast, it's hard. (if you don't know, they have milk / formula exclusively until 6 months)
My wife is a big fan of the Boppy pillow. Just one of many items out there. We also got a Pashmama, which is a cover for when my wife wants to feed in public.
f) Sleeping - I made the mistake of buying a crib right away, and I set it up and everything, only to have my wife decide that she wanted a bassinet, and also that she wanted our daughter to co-sleep. You will need a crib, just discuss with your wife what set up you want before you run out and buy one.
g) To elaborate on point F, the same applies for all other baby items. We have a bouncer, a crib, a bassinet, a play pad, and some toys. My appt is suddenly feeling very very small. While my daughter uses most of the items (still doesn't use the crib), I probably didn't have to buy everything at once.
h) Diapers. In our experience, Pampers Swaddlers have been the best. You will have leaks / blowouts / messes, and from there you'll determine what works best for your baby. A good price on diapers is $0.14 - 0.18 / diaper. Amazon.ca now has Amazon Family - http://www.amazon.ca/gp/family/signup/
It's a great service once you find out which diapers work best for you.
The rest of the stuff you'll learn along the way.
You need a diaper bag. Spit rags are essential. If the child's fingers are too small to cut his / her nails, you can file them down. Burp the baby after they eat (note: do this even if they fall asleep). Introduce pacifiers later on in life if breast feeding to avoid "nipple confusion". Etc. Etc.
There are so many things that you can't possibly learn from a book, and every baby is different, so the rest of the stuff you'll learn as you go along.
In the end - congrats and have fun!
I enjoyed Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads. Entertaining, yet informative.
I really liked this one. It's super practical and actually funny. The illustrations are great, like from old school men's magazines. Be Prepared by Gary Greenberg et al. http://www.amazon.com/dp/0743251547/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_AUPetb1CM32XA
Congratualtions!
I'm in the home stretch (38 weeks 5 days!) and my husband has loved reading /r/predaddit and /r/daddit
He also got a ton of helpful information from Be Prepared and the Prepared Childbirth class at our local hospital.
As for your wife, just be patient, don't hold anything against her, and try to limit your strongly scented foods if she's feeling nauseous.
There are a bunch of survival guides for new dads, but this one is my favorite. They had me at the illustration of what to do when the baby takes a poo in the bathtub. The caption is something like "10 points if you catch it in the cup".
We liked this book so much we bought it for all of our expecting friends.
Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads
I doubt there is a completely non-patronizing pregnancy book available outside of a medical text book. I had the feeling that the authors had purposefully written their books with the idea that the people who needed it the most were those without any prior experience with pregnancy, babies, or children.
There were only two that my wife and I both enjoyed. The first, What to Expect When You're Expecting, was pretty good for straight, factual information.
The other book, Be Prepared, falls into your first category and is more of a bathroom reader joke book, but it was entertaining enough and had some good ideas for the first year.
I'm currently reading Happiest Baby on the Block (really good but a little condescending) and Be Prepared I really like that one, as it's practical, useful info aimed at guys, not condescending and not preachy.
My husband and I both loved Be Prepared, it's a parenting book that covers birth through the first year and it's hilarious. Geared toward dads but it isn't one of those books that assumes dad will be clueless or hopeless.
Actually, for new dads, here's the most useful book I found:
> Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads
It's one of those humorous, but actually sort of useful books.
Examples instructions from the book:
Well I have one for after birth and it really helped my husband. It is pretty funny and it accurately describes the changes your body goes through and the baby, it's called Be Prepared
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_img_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=G9XSTNQ1HFWD6MQPCEY6
The first time he was on a trip when I got my BFP so I ran to the bookstore and got him Be Prepared. With a card that said "Congrats Dad!" Or something like that.
This time I just shoved the pee stick in his face when he came home with dinner. I think he liked the first time better.
This "Dad book" is really cool and I love it. I want to get it for my hubby! Figured I'd share.
This helped me out alot, and I suggest it to all new dads.
A fun lighthearted parenting book for men, Be Prepared.
And another, Show Dad How.
Oh and, congratulations :)
If you just use The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding as a reference, it is good. I also liked What to Expect. I kinda split the difference between crunchy SAHM and epidural-loving working mom, though.
My husband LOVED the daddy book I got him called Be Prepared. He ended up bringing it to the hospital with him, and eventually even I read the whole thing.
My friend who is really into nutrition of her babies just recommended Super Baby Food to me, but I can't vouch for it. Also seems to have mixed reviews on Amazon. I was given a book called The Best Homemade Baby Food on the Planet that I haven't really looked at yet, but might now that we're starting solids.
The only cloth diapering book I read was Changing Diapers by Kelly Wels. It was okay, but I did better just by internetting.
And if you're a frugal momma, pick up the most recent edition of Baby Bargains. I've only heard good things.
If you're as clueless as my husband and I are, we liked Be Prepared. It's kind of silly, but at the same time we seriously had no idea how to change a diaper. We have a ways to go.
I'm 9 weeks into this same thing (a boy and a girl).
One thing I've learned so far is you can't do it all. There is going to be moments where somebody's going to have to sit and cry. For example, you can only change one diaper at a time. They will be okay.
Do some research about babies being in the NICU. Don't let it worry you too much. It seems most twins go to the NICU for at least a little bit. Mine were there 3 weeks
Definitely keep both on the same schedule. If you feed one, feed the other. If you change one diaper, change the other.
There's going to be a moments where you get overly frustrated. Put the babies in a safe place and walk away for a few breaths. Also make sure momma does the same thing.
Always accept help. Don't feel proud and try to be a superhero. Weather it's somebody willing to come help you watch the kids, or someone willing to cook you a meal. If they offer, take advantage.
Some more spacific things would include:
(I may add to this later if I think of more)
A couple of good books I liked:
Be Prepared https://www.amazon.com/dp/0743251547/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_tdARDbCCNJJN0
The Baby Owner's Manual https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_leARDbH84Q31C
Lastly, and most importantly, if you're worried about being good parent, then you are being a good parent.
Good luck my fellow brethren
My husband wanted this book.
://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0743251547/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522387283&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=be+prepared+a+practical+handbook+for+new+dads&dpPl=1&dpID=51JUh%2BuvTOL&ref=plSrch
From THIS hilarious book - Safe Baby Pregnancy Tips - By David and Kelly Sopp
Which even comes with a great "wheel of responsibility" LOL
Step 1: Scan this book and post it on the Internet
Step 2: ???
Step 3: Profit
Reminds me of this book! Congrats OP, love it!
Besides the suggestions already made, here's a good book for mom
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0762456582/ref=dp_ob_neva_mobile
Your boss might like these:
And ideas for your friends:
Maybe that'll help. Good luck!
Some of those preggy pops maybe? I ended up just sucking on a lot of jolly ranchers, oddly enough. But hard candy could be good.
Maybe a peppermint oil rollerball, that can help with nausea too.
I would put in a pregnancy book you really enjoyed as well. Or one that's just interesting, like Do Chocolate Lovers Have Sweeter Babies?.
Along similar lines, there was an article in the Wall Street Journal by Jena Pincott, the author of the book Do Chocolate Lovers Have Sweeter Babies?: The Surprising Science of Pregnancy, that talked about men's reactions to pregnancy:
> What should a man expect when he's expecting? To loosen his belt. About half of all expectant dads gain weight—up to 30 pounds—during their partners' pregnancies.
> And that isn't all. A dad-to-be can expect to be slammed by at least one other pregnancy symptom, like nausea, fatigue, food cravings, odor aversions, mood swings, sleep problems or bouts of bloat. Symptoms commonly strike in the first trimester, wane in the second and return with a vengeance in the third.
> [...]
> Ms. Storey and Ms. Wynne-Edwards homed in on a hormone called prolactin. Prolactin levels rise dramatically in women during pregnancy. A Buddhist of a hormone, it slows everything down to a more meditative pace. Under its influence, fats and sugars are metabolized less effectively, which explains the weight gain.
> Prolactin also arouses sweet and tender feelings by prompting pleasure hormones known as opioids. In men, it lowers the libido. When high on prolactin, you're heavy, soft, abundant and more emotionally astute. You're about to be reincarnated as a parent.
To get to the full article for free, I googled the title and clicked the link: http://www.google.com/search?q=The+Plight+of+the+Pregnant+Man
Congrats! This is a good book for you for the next 7.5 months. It is not so much about what to do with a new baby, but I found it an easy and someone useful info for being a good partner in pregnancy.
Dude You're Gonna Be a Dad!
I used this one. Helped me understand some of the stuff that was going to happen. That being said, I would suggest you learn to tolerate an extra sprinkle of crazy that your wife will exhibit. Congratulations and good luck!!!
https://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1539975454&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=dude+you+are+gonna+be+a+dad&dpPl=1&dpID=51UysnNAM-L&ref=plSrch
This was really the only good "Dad" book I read that did not make me lose sleep. http://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1412723216&sr=8-4&keywords=dads+guide+to+pregnancy
My husband was gifted this book by our best friends (who have kids). It opened his virgin-to-babies eyes. He learned a ton and we talked about what he was learning. I've noticed him becoming even more attentive to me and planning for our little family's future.
I bought him Dude You’re Going To Be A Dad
Dude, You're Gonna Be a Dad!: How to Get (Both of You) Through the Next 9 Months https://www.amazon.com/dp/1440505365/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_KO6OBbA9N25J0
I picked up Dude, You're going to be a dad before our first was born. SHe's now 3, and we have a 15 month old. Its such a fun ride.. congrats!
I used "dude, your going to be a dad!"
It's not a huge book and actually a pretty fun read with an overview of what's going on. Think of it as supplemental. Some good tips as well.
Dude, You're Gonna Be a Dad!: How to Get (Both of You) Through the Next 9 Months https://www.amazon.com/dp/1440505365/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_kMfNzb5YTJK4Q
> how much he neeeeedddssss it
I would say you should explain to him that you neeeeeed him to respect you in this and to have some compassion.
I got my husband a copy of the Expectant Father and he's found it helpful and informative. If your guy won't listen when you explain what you need, maybe he'll listen if it's coming from a book. Or, no offense, I'm sure he's a great guy and has tons of redeeming qualities, but if he's as immature as this post makes him sound, maybe Dude, You're Gonna be a Dad might be more his speed.
Also, explain to him that pregnancy pulls crazy shit with our senses of smell, and for now you need him to either stop using his cologne or understand that he needs to wash it off before you can be near him.
But as far as meeting those neeeeeeds of his ... would it be nuts to take a trip to your local woman-owned sex toy shop to look for some toys to tide him over? There are some very classy men's masturbation devices out there, like tenga (nsfw) though they can get pricey. Maybe seeing that you still care about his sex needs would help him feel better, even if you're not able to drain his nuts yourself?
I haven't read this one yet but it was recommended at one of our child birthing classes from this week: http://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365
My wife picked up Dude your gonna be a dad shortly after we found out. It is written in a really informal style, which put me off a bit at first, but as my wife read her books and we "compared notes" I realized it has alot of really good information in it.
I haven't read them yet, but I got this book and this book for my husband, they were highly rated.
This is the funniest book I have ever read:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1587612496
I recommend one of the cheap 1st editions (yellow hardback) on eBay with a preface by Walt Disney instead of Bill Cosby.
The illustrations by Charles Schultz are the icing on the cake.
You need this.
I recommend this (which is about being pregnant, but useful, funny and informative) and this which is about taking care of an infant and all sorts of really useful information. I've read both cover to cover, they were gifts from friends of ours, and invaluable.
When we were expecting our first, someone gave us the “Baby User Manual”. https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978. It can with a poster that had swaddling steps. A bit of practice with it and could start swaddling with my eyes closed. Which was pretty normal after a few weeks of 3AM feedings.
This one is really funny but also has some useful information. Someone gave it to my husband and we loved it
The book with no pictures - http://thebookwithnopictures.com/
The baby owners manual - https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
I am reading through: http://www.amazon.com/Heading-Home-With-Your-Newborn/dp/1581104448/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397573039&sr=8-1&keywords=from+birth+to+reality
which is pretty good with what you need to know about newborns.
I also have http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397573102&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+manual+book which is a quick and easy reference guide and should be more handy when I need to look something up.
I also have what to expect the first year, but I haven't actually looked at it yet. My DH has the Be Prepared book for dads, which he likes.
The Baby Owner's Manual
I don't know if this is "small" enough, but it's relatively cheap and a smaller sized book, and I found it incredibly useful! We were gifted it after the baby was born, and I really wish we had gotten it before I gave birth!
It's funny, concise, and actually really useful. :D
We were given this one. it's great for the tech minded guy.
As mentioned by DangerDance read some books. The What to Expect Book was a pretty good start and reference during the first year. A lot of it is kinda "figuring it out as you go along" but you are going to have a MUCH easier time doing that if you educate yourself first.
Edit: Also, another book I had was The Baby Owner's Manual which is really geared towards fathers and those with a sense of humor.
Edit2: Also, there is /r/Parenting
Here's the one my wife got me.
It reads like a car manual.
I'm a FTM and I have taken absolutely zero childbirth classes or infant care classes. I have done a lot of research on my own when it comes to childbirth, however. The library has been my best friend. I don't plan on doing any infant care classes. I've been around babies with my nieces, nephews and cousin's kids so I'm not worried about that. I did, however, purchase The Baby Owner's Manual for my husband and he loves it. He's never really had any experience with babies at all.
 
You are definitely not a bad mom already! You will survive without them. A lot of child care is intuition and with childbirth you will have your doula. I think you'll be absolutely fine. You got this!
Not sure if it'd count, but there's this Baby Owner's Manual that my SO and I got when she was pregnant. Lucked out and found it at a Goodwill while buying some other baby books and whatnot. Anyway, it's actually got some pretty great info and it's presented in a pretty fun way.
Other than that, just have to say, be prepared for poop. Like, I know that you've already braced yourself for dirty diapers, yeah, that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about how babies will just magically find ways to get poop from their diapers onto everything else. Like there will be that dreaded blowout, and trust me, one of you at least will be sent into this sort of shellshocked mode of just sitting there and shaking your head and just mumbling "I don't know, I just don't know."
What to expect when you're expecting?
Also, Baby Owner's Manual
I agree that most books are broad strokes, but this one really helped out from a new parent perspective. It's also really funny, so that helps:
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
I'm a genetic counselor so I won't tell you what to do about the genetic testing (though one point you might consider is that blood testing options are something some people do just so that they have some warning ahead of time about what they might be facing, even if they would never terminate the pregnancy. But some of the blood tests have high false positive rates and might lead to stressful situations. Make sure you've discussed all options with the ob).
My husband hated all of the "expecting" books until I bought him this one: https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978 It's pretty funny and he likes fixing things and working on cars and stuff so he liked the owners manual approach
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
Amazing book written like a user manual. The sections are great because they're divided up into maintenance, troubleshooting etc so I can quickly find what I need to.
So much is stressful in preparation mode. You can't forget to laugh. Here is my suggestion. I promise you won't regret getting it.
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_g44Jub0CHEY7C
THIS BOOK really helped me out when we had our first. It's beautifully illustrated, full of helpful information, and worded just like a manual which is funny, yet gets right to the point in three easy steps.
Not being sarcastic, and even though the book is funny I highly recommend you pick up the Baby Owners Manual.
It helps the analytical person have a pocket reference for topics they can't rightly plan for. They have a toddler version to buy i can't speak to it.
I found this book funny and informative: The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_e73Mzb1J9DDF8
Deep breath. Everything's alright. Babies just happen sometimes. Remember that we somehow evolved as a species by having babies in the woods, when our best tools were sharpened rocks. Just love, relax, and be compassionate... everything else will play out on it's own. You sound like you are in a better position than I was (in college, delivering pizza, and no savings). I'm sure you can google your specific questions, but here's my opinion:
I recommend:
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance
It's amusing and actually very informative. I found it more readable than the 'What to expect when you're expecting' series. Cheers!
I never read any baby books... Just had a few apps on my phone. Baby is not dead. You'll be OK!
I do recommend this, just because it's handy and kind of funny: http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
We used The Baby Owner's Manual
An an amazing book for beginners.
I'm also a researcher in my professional life and I found just reading a few books and taking a class was the best way to get my basic knowledge of parenting. I like to keep The Baby's Owner Manual around as a nice reference. After that I talk to parents online and in person about parenting, asking questions here and elsewhere as things came up. There are so many products advertised as essential for kids that it can be useful to get feedback from other parents.
I've probably spent the most time researching medications and ingredients in various products. It seems like many things like gas drops or teething soothing medicines fall under homeopathic medicines.
I just ordered my SO this awesome shirt and onesie combo, an epic coloring book, something to help if he's feeling overwhelmed, a book for bedtime, and a shirt to help bring out his inner nerd as a late father's day/early baby day present~ get your hubby something fun that matches his personality, there's plenty of awesome things on amazon for dads-to-be for every kind of dad out there. You just have to look :3
The symptoms that I had in the beginning were far more severe than what I am experiencing now that I’m starting to show. This is totally normal and expected. Your body is going through a ridiculous amount of change and is being absolutely flooded with hormones. I got my husband a few new dad type books and he reads them, It seems to help a lot with getting them to understand what’s going on before you can physically see the changes. I’ll edit in a moment with the books that I purchased
Edit: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0789212137
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1594745978
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0789210770
I got them all used I believe, so picked out a few that had good reviews. He’s been primarily reading the one with the plaid shirt on the cover
Show dad how. Show Dad How (Parenting Magazine): The Brand-New Dad's Guide to Baby's First Year https://www.amazon.com/dp/1616281111/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_blPlxb9DGF6X1
Too bad my DH will not read anything in print. It's a puzzling shame too because he is crazy mensa-intelligent. So far I've gotten him The Expectant Father when we found out I was pregnant and even the picture-book Show Dad How. He has opened neither of them, not even once, since he got them... Sigh.
Thank you for your encouragement, it means a lot on a panicked day like today!
I have no clue what I'm doing. But I still feel pretty confident! Just read books, my friend got me a great book "Show Dad How."http://www.amazon.com/Show-Dad-How-Parenting-Magazine/dp/1616281111 it's just as funny as it is useful.
Buy this. Show Dad How (Parenting Magazine): The Brand-New Dad's Guide to Baby's First Year
I found this series of ["Show Me How"] (http://www.amazon.com/Show-Dad-How-Parenting-Magazine/dp/1616281111/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421526055&sr=8-1&keywords=show+dad+how)
books to be humorous and quite helpful, there's [one for mom] (http://www.amazon.com/Show-Mom-How-Parenting-Magazine/dp/161628112X/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1421526055&sr=8-3&keywords=show+dad+how) too.
Working at a book store I have had several new parents looking for the [Happiest Baby Books] (http://www.amazon.com/Happiest-Baby-Block-Harvey-Karp/dp/0553381466/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421526423&sr=8-1&keywords=happiest+baby+on+the+block) (there's one for toddler's too). The American Pediatric Association also has a [book] (http://www.amazon.com/Caring-Your-Baby-Young-Child/dp/0553393820/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421526506&sr=8-1&keywords=caring+for+your+baby+and+young+child+birth+to+age+5) that covers Pre-birth to 5 years. I read a chapter each month to keep me up to speed on the miles stones ahead, my son is 3 now and it was incredibly helpful.
Good luck!
There isn’t a manual, but this is the next best thing.
Also, like the other redditor said: stop whatever you’re doing right now and breathe.
Edit: missed a word
This should help.
http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instruction/dp/1931686238/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1323325762&sr=8-1
Congratulations. May I suggest a little light reading.
For the parents:
I got this in the book gift exchange and it is really good:
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance
For the kid:
Turntable Timmy
Where the wild things are
Miss Nelson Is Missing!
Goodnight Moon
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
You'll figure it out fairly quickly. Mine is 6 months and we've got it covered. My few books:
The Baby Owner's Manual
Pacify Me - One of the best chapters in here talks about listening to friends and family, but mostly family and disregard the crazy stuff. You'll get to a point where you learn to listen to your instinct, its going to be right (We reference my wife's instinct as it seems to be better honed in, or so she says)
Relax, don't stress, you'll manage.
When I became a first-time dad several year ago, I found The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance EXTREMELY helpful, and humorous, too.
There is also a toddler edition of this book.
After a little while you can get used to it - at one point I could even tell if my runt was tired/hungry/dirty just by the type of cry she emitted. Best of luck!
This thing rules: http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-shooting/dp/1931686238
Here you go.
They don't COME with instruction manuals. You have to buy it separately.
I got this book Baby Owner's Manual as a semi gag gift when we were having our first. I actually read through this book and found it really helpful overall. I even referred back to it a few times when we weren't sure on some things.
What to expect is great and all, but it's just TOO much stuff. This keeps it straight and to the point. Plus it's funny because it's written like an instruction manual.
This came up not to long ago and I will put what I put before
It is very informative and research based but still fun "Caveman's guide to ...." http://www.amazon.com/Cavemans-Pregnancy-Companion-Survival-Expectant/dp/140273526X
A something a lot lighter and just fun to get him into the idea
http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-shooting/dp/1931686238
The latter has a lot less hard fact but I know I enjoyed it and it got me prepped to read the bigger, harder stuff.
For pregnancy and for new baby
Edit: Written very well for men to read. Less earthy/crunchy and my husband says it's very informative.
That book sucks; buy this one instead: http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1931686238/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1280205820&sr=8-1
We found it far, far more useful.
on the topic of parenting books geared towards men, has anyone read this book? It looks like it could be both funny and informative.
This is a really good book for dads.
http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Practical-Handbook-Dads-ebook/dp/B000SEKFZI/ref=dp_kinw_strp_1
For a sillier but useful book, my husband (and I) enjoyed "Be Prepared!".
and it's real... https://www.amazon.com/How-Marry-Finnish-Girl-Everything-ebook/dp/B006GB4LOS
But also gay https://finland.fi/arts-culture/us-wise-guy-makes-fun-of-life-in-finland/
Looks like you're moving here for the same reason as I did, so you might as well just get this book right away, have a good laugh and learn something useful while you're at it.
My husband loved The Baby Owners Manual. It's both funny and genuinely helpful.
WEIRDLY ENOUGH, MY HUMAN BABY CAME WITH NO MANUAL, I WAS ABOUT TO RETURN IT UNTIL I FOUND A GOOD ONE HERE
/u/makenoapologies is having a rough day. I think she deserves some cheer too. How about this funny parenting book
This book looks like it will be very AMUSING, but it is 0.69 over the $10 limit, so I completely understand if it disqualifies me!
Awesome idea for a contest!
That reminds me of my favorite Amazon book, the one about lasers coming out of a baby's eyes.
https://www.amazon.com/Lets-Panic-About-Babies-Worthwhile/dp/031264812X?ie=UTF8&ref_=cm_cr_othr_d_product_top
http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Panic-About-Babies-Worthwhile/dp/031264812X is a very funny pregnancy book
My husband got me Let's Panic About Babies for Valentine's Day. I prefer it to all the serious books :)
http://www.amazon.ca/Lets-Panic-About-Babies-Worthwhile/dp/031264812X
I loved this book during my first pregnancy, and am loving rereading it this time!
I bought [this one](The New Dad's Survival Guide: Man-to-Man Advice for First-Time Fathers https://www.amazon.com/dp/0316159956/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_rBkLyb5ZQ2DP9) for my husband when I was pregnant with my first. It was a really funny read! He had never dealt with babies before in his life, and I had been dealing with them since I was 13, so it was a tongue-in-cheek gift.
I'm due at the end of June, so I'm thinking that I'll put together my husband's hospital bag for him for Father's Day.
He has mentioned that he wants this diaper bag, so I might just pack it in that, and throw in a new daddy t-shirt (I haven't found one I love; I might just make one) and one or more of these books.
Hey buddy, I don't know if this is your first but I highly recommend this book. It's funny and helped me get through our first pregnancy.
Best of luck.
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547
I'm a new dad of a 3-month old and while this isn't gospel-centered, this is an extremely practical and funny book about fathering during the first year:
Be Prepared by Gary Greenberg and Jeannie Hayden
I found this book funny, and also helpful. You can make an emergency diaper out of a tube sock and duct tape!
"Be Prepared: A Practical Guide for New Dads"
http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397582249&sr=8-1&keywords=practical+guide+for+new+dads
My wife got me this book and it was funny and practical.
Reddit is definitely a great resource. However, make sure she knows about babycenter.com. That is a great resource for new parents (mom & dad). Having a brand new baby at home can be a very stressful time. However, between all the screaming you and your wife will have some of the most precious and memorable experiences of your lives. Treasure those moments and the stressful times will feel worth the effort. Definitely pick up the Nose Frieda. It definitely helps having the right tool for the job. Also, pickup a copy of Be Prepared. It's a great (and funny) book for new dads.
Yes, the crib can come at anytime, but I think he needs to be in the same room as mommy until 6 months. You could go sooner, but why? Unless he's causing problems with sleep, as they say, "if it ain't broke....".
EVERYONE, has advice and they are more than happy to give it, so I'll repeat mine. "If it doesn't FEEL right, don't do it."
You will over think everything about the first child, I did and still do. Read, but try not to obsess with "growth charts" and the "he should be doing "blank" at this many months" charts all baby books seem to have.
Find a good pediatrician, one you like as well as respect and but most of all has kids of his own. I think having kids changes your outlook and it's important that your doctor have some perspective and first hand experience of being a first time parent. Nothing changes your life more than the first child as you will soon see.
Dad needs to read this book "Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads" it's funny but has some great advice. Yes, MORE advice sorry.
Good Luck the first six months or so are the toughest, but also the most rewarding.
I really enjoyed the book "Be Prepared." A little outdated but super practical. Still trying to get hubby to read it though ;-) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0743251547/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_H8JlxbQVXD3ZS
I got "So You're Going to be a Dad" as a gift and I loved it. It was hysterical to read, but insightful and useful as well. However, for the more serious stuff, I agree with someone else who suggested "Be Prepared". You've got a lot of good advice in this thread.
I'm a big fan of this book,
http://www.amazon.ca/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547
Seems to be written for dads, without any of the semi condescending attitude that some writers/bloggers would have regarding the male portion of the equation.
I'm about 7 weeks away... and the wife and I are doing good. There are lots of opinions you're about to hear and yours probably won't hold any weight (because.. you're not a parent.. what would you know :P :P) but taker easy, think with common sense, ask questions and you'll be good. Congrats!
These have super high reviews and are what I'm considering for my husband (I've done this before, he hasn't):
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978/ref=pd_cp_0_4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=B1JXTK40A28QF1HXVB1R
Be Prepared
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/ref=pd_cp_0_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=B1JXTK40A28QF1HXVB1R
The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be
https://www.amazon.com/Expectant-Father-Ultimate-Dads-Be/dp/0789212137/ref=pd_bxgy_14_2/165-9281146-1737814?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=A1YZ49KX0NSTEK2CF8PB
Edit: sorry for such messy links!
You may want to also ask this over at /r/daddit or /r/predaddit!
A friend of mine just got her husband this book when she found out she was pregnant: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/
You need to know the name of your doctor and this book
I bought two for my significant other. DadLabs and Be Prepared.
Be Prepared came in first and he enjoyed it. I picked it up and flipped through it a bit. Lighthearted with just enough neat little "tips" that it makes it worth the couple bucks I spent on a nice used book. It's just kind of bathroom material now.
Then DadLabs came in. He read it cover to cover. Put bookmarks in. Highlighted stuff. He LOVED it. He isn't a big "reader" so that's saying a lot for him. I read a bit of this one too. It's practical and more serious than Be Prepared, but still fun and enjoyable to read. I also got a score on Amazon with this one, bought used, it showed up in perfect condition, and was signed by all the authors. :)
Thanks for that. I read Be Prepared and found it helpful as well.
This was my favorite “dad” book — funny, but surprisingly practical.
Make reading to your child part of bedtime routine. For my two, it played a big role in making books and reading a natural part of their environment later on, and the dividends of that pay off in school. Ditto for taking them to the library. Even when it seems silly reading to an infant, it’s a great way for them to hear your voice. And you can literally read them anything — newspaper, Reddit!
Spending time alone with a baby can get boring, so don’t be afraid to leave the house with them. I was a part-time stay at home dad for a few months, and I don’t know what I would have done if I never left the house with my son!
Be Prepared
It's like someone wrote an actual manual for babies. Best practical advice I found (and I'm the mom.) The book is geared towards dads but the advice is mostly for both parents.
Also an hilarious read - they included a chapter called Bidding Farewell to the Breast
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497477383&sr=8-1&keywords=Be+Prepared%3A+A+Practical+Handbook+for+New+Dads
I really liked Be Prepared.
For your husband :
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547
Best advice is buying and reading this book. BE PREPARED, is a quick read with practical advice like How to baby proof a hotel room in 5 min, what to pack in a Guy diaper bag. Be Prepared book
Congrats!
Lots of great advice already on this thread, but I wanted to recommend this book as well. It is witty and playful, but has a lot of really good information.
Also, be the best husband in the world and as soon as your wife starts getting big, buy her a body pillow. I made it through my first pregnancy without one, but now at 31 weeks along with my second, I can't imagine how I survived without it.
Be Prepared by Gary Greenberg is a very entertaining(and informative) parenting book, written in the style of the old boy scout training and survival handbooks.
http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t
My cousin is about 3 months along now and her husband had this on his coffee table.
http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y
I feel like he's handling it very well. Admits he's scared shitless and unsure of it all, but his friends and family are very supportive and he's thankful for it and takes any advice he can get from them.
I know I'm late to the party, but congratulations. I only ever give two pieces of advice:
Be Prepared
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547
I read this one and it helped me out a lot.
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Gary-Greenberg/dp/0743251547/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=0743251547&pd_rd_r=RTJE4AVG8RTDZWGNK6X7&pd_rd_w=mTNgv&pd_rd_wg=w1cFo&psc=1&refRID=RTJE4AVG8RTDZWGNK6X7
I hear ya bud, but you dropped alot of details in your original post that is irrelevant to "my wife and I do everything together, she's super supportive, just needs some comfort around the whole entre' thing, throw a book my way.. yo."
Instead you drop info about how you're working 15+ hours and getting no respect and you got a kid coming. It sounded like you are bitching about it and feeling your needs aren't being understood. Been there buddy, totally can relate. I'd like to stick around for a flame war, but if you need a book recommendation I'd go with this one...
http://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Practical-Handbook-Dads/dp/0743251547
I like Be Prepared
I read it on my tablet. It's kind of written like one of those Survival Manual type novelty books. Has a bit of humor but a lot of practical information. Cant imagine reading anything as dry as "What to Expect When You're Expecting"
I see someone else read Be Prepared, which is hilarious and incredibly helpful. Linky
Also since you will be a new dad, this dad's survival guide is freaking great.
For example - this book as an app would be amazing!
He should've gotten Be Prepared instead.
Get him this. I paid double that price for this book, and it was more than worth it. It is an awesome book filled with knowledge and humor.
Don't spend a lot of money on clothes for the first year, the kid will probably outgrow everything before they wear it more than a couple times. We got all kinds of newborn clothes at my wife's baby shower, and the kid grew out of them before most of them were ever worn. Ask for diapers at the baby shower instead, you can't really have too many diapers.
If you'll need a daycare, start looking now because the good ones will have a waiting list.
Get your wife/yourself a copy of What to Expect When You're Expecting and yourself a copy of Be Prepared.
Your wife is about to go through some very uncomfortable times. Be there for her. Massage her back and feet when they're sore and swollen and understand that when she may say and do things that uncharacteristic for her near the end of her pregnancy, don't take any of it personally. Being the perfect husband during this time will go a hell of a long way for years to come.
If possible, take a couple of spontaneous weekend getaway trips before your wife is too uncomfortable to travel. Enjoy an evening out at a non-animated movie and a quiet dinner. This will be the last opportunity for that sort of thing for a long time.
this was a fun read. Though I'm not sure how informative.
I agree with mostly not focusing on the kid, although if you want to do something fun/goofy and geeky in with a gift I'd suggest either of these:
http://www.amazon.com/Safe-Baby-Pregnancy-Tips-David/dp/0762428430
http://www.amazon.com/HTML-Babies-Volume-Web-Design/dp/0615487661
:)
In case anybody wants to buy their book, here's the link on Amazon. I actually have two books they've done and they're great. Link: ttp://www.amazon.com/Safe-Baby-Pregnancy-Tips-David/dp/0762428430/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260820366&sr=1-1
It's from the Safe Baby Handling Tips book: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0762424915
I would also recommend a Safe Baby Pregnancy Tips book: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0762428430/
I own this one- highly recommended! https://www.amazon.com/Safe-Baby-Handling-Tips-David/dp/0762456582/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502907669&sr=8-1&keywords=safe+baby+handling+tips
My favorite movie is To Kill a Mockingbird. I would love to give the prize to my mother! She loves make up, me, not so much ahaha!
I love mad libs
Sprout and Bubble! Thank you for the contest!
I suggest entertainment such as this They are so funny. Have fun in the sun while you are there!
Congrats!
I found this book to be really helpful and well written.
https://www.amazon.com/Dude-Youre-Gonna-Be-Dad/dp/1440505365/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=TDHWHW231P89TR81TDZ8
I made a little dad prep kit: an extra large 'Papa Bear' mug, Dude, You're Going to Be a Dad, Oreos (since we can't celebrate with wine!), and the tests in a heart polka dotted bag. He loved it!
Yes! I bitched on here about my situation a while ago. I bought my SO this book and gave it to him when I found out I was pregnant, but he didn’t start reading it until recently (I’m almost 32 weeks). I had a major meltdown a couple weeks ago where I told him that I didn’t feel like he was being emotionally supportive. After having talked to friends and family, I found out that this can be normal for men.. and it does not mean they won’t be good fathers. I ended up signing us up for a childbirth class, as well as a baby basics class. We’ve had 2 out of 5 classes so far and he’s been attentive and will interact with me in class, which I didn’t expect at all.
Maybe he’s like my partner, and giving him that little push will help. Have you communicated any of this with him?
Mine has enjoyed "Dude, You're Going to be a Dad"
This book is also awesome! I included it in something similar for my friend awhile ago: https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-Club-Parenting-Milestones-Coming/dp/1452153477/ref=asc_df_1452153477/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312075063269&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8160015180436305684&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1027217&hvtargid=pla-369998962277&psc=1
Seconded - when I was pregnant I LOVED Baby Bargains.
This gift will help her save money and not feel overwhelmed about all the choices of baby gear.
I would get the Baby Bargains book and The Pregnancy Instruction Manual. It's an easy, entertaining, funny read.
http://www.amazon.com/Pregnancy-Instruction-Manual-Troubleshooting-Parents/dp/1594742456/ref=pd_sim_b_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1BN4W2EAEGN45HWCJXM5
Congratulations, and welcome! SO and I just found out about our incoming bundle of cuteness on Monday, had our ultrasound to rule out ectopic on Tuesday, and it has been a whirlwind ever since. I have been on the depo shot for 2 years, and I only missed one cycle (was due for a shot 7/1, conceived around 7/15). We are due April 11th, but they may change it to the 16th! As far as not drinking, I would go with the "new medications, can't drink" thing. It's something people shouldn't question, and if they do it is easy enough to explain. Just be prepared to answer the questions ahead of time!
One of my favorite books from my last pregnancy, especially for our dear sweet men, is The Pregnancy Instruction Manual and [The Baby Owner's Manual] (http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_y) once little one is here. They are easy to read and sort of hilarious!
Again, congratulations!
Books
These are the only ones I bought and read:
I love this Subreddit and just how easy breezy and fun the conversations were while still being helpful. I found these books had a similar feel to them.
----
Baby Bump
I'm pretty petite and really didn't start showing until 24-ish weeks? Then is was like BOOM. There's a baby in there. So, I bet it's coming sooner than you think. I honestly was able to sleep on my stomach late into the 2nd Tri - which made me very happy.
----
Food
I just ate what felt right at that moment. I had a lot of food aversions and it was just hard for a while. Eventually, I found things that worked and then the aversions tapered. I've been eating cashews a lot lately... Milk hits the spot... I'd say keep trying until you find something!
----
TIMING
I didn't really have a "timeline," and my OB would remind us and help us figure out when to do some things like, call the insurance company, schedule classes, etc. I preferred to take the classes later so the information stayed fresh.
As for a car, we started that early because we knew we had two cars to sell/trade and wanted to make sure we found something we both really liked.
Make a list of what you want done before baby comes and place it according to "MUST HAVES" / "NICE TO HAVES" -- that helped us prioritize and made it feel more managable.
Hope some of this helped!!
Yep... But since it is huge and overwhelming and reads like a textbook, I also got The Pregnancy Instruction Manual for good info in smaller doses.
Many helpful diagrams as well! Pairs well with The pregnancy instruction manual: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1594742456
We both enjoyed The Baby Owner's Manual, which is a rather nerdy look at how to care for a baby. It doesn't cover pregnancy or childbirth, though.
We particularly liked the fact that it said things like "bouncing a baby at a frequency of > 1 Hz is shaking a baby". It's nice to have good definitions of that boundary line.
Hubby got this as more of a gag gift, but it was actually really helpful for the basics - clear instructions with diagrams https://www.amazon.ca/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
Do you mean books on how to be a dad? Books to read to your baby? Books on how to teach your kid science?
Edit: For the first category, start with this
Not quite the same, but there is an owner's manual for babies! ;)
My husband and I are adopting, so I figure this is my opportunity to buy all the dorky dad and grandparent gifts. Definitely getting him this book and maybe a "manly" diaper bag or baby carrier. Any suggestions?
You can get a replacement manual here: http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
I have a couple models too. Can't believe they don't come with a manual. I had to buy mine after market. https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
Here's the manual.
No baby here yet (I'm due 3 days before you and still haven't popped yet!), but I have a few book recommendations. Your boyfriend might enjoy the first because it's amusing and not really overwhelming, called The Baby Owner's Manual. I am currently reading Mayo Clinic's Guide to Baby's First Year, which is more clinical but VERY detailed. I really enjoyed the mayo clinic pregnancy book because it wasn't as scare-tactic as some of the others (like What to Expect) but still gave good, evidence-based information. Speaking of evidence-based, I read and thoroughly enjoyed The Science of Mom, which is kind of like Expecting Better but for baby's first year of life. It goes over a lot of scientific studies, if that's your thing!
https://www.amazon.de/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
something like this?
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance (Owner's and Instruction Manual) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1594745978/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i2QWBbBR1VV1T
Highly recommend
I got The Baby Owner's Manual for practical information like this. Funny and helpful.
I totally agree. We have the AAP Guide (this one: http://www.amazon.com/Caring-Your-Young-Child-Edition/dp/0553386301 ) as well as this "baby manual"
I like both because neither push an agenda, and are very straightforward.
Am I the only that read the manual?
My friend gave me this great book before I had my first:
The Baby Owners Manual & Trouble Shooting
It's a funny, well designed book that is straightforward with all of the basics covered.
The other book that I would recommend is Baby 411
It's a really great book for reference when you are worried about everything - behavior, feeding, sickness, sleeping, etc...
There is one book I would recommend: https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978/ref=nodl_
It has everything you need to know
Dad of 2 here (4 and 2)
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Good luck, man. Congratulations!
For BIL, I would definitely get a new dad book, perhaps something along these lines?
For your sister, I suggest getting her a gift to use for her pregnancy. You didn’t mention how far along she is, but if she’s got a ways to go, then something like belly bands, a full body pillow, or maternity pajamas will help her deal with the discomfort of being pregnant.
Its silly, but this book is cheeky but can help with details around babies, cleaning, washing and sanitizing bottles etc. There is skin care for babies, stump care for the baby, and all kinds of instructions.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519927812&sr=8-1&keywords=how+to+care+for+a+baby
This is what I got for my husband when I was pregnant last time. He seemed to like it, he didn't read it beforehand, but dug it out once the baby was here and there was something he needed info on.
Baby's Owner's Manual
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-shooting Tips, and Advice on First-year Maintenance was great for us - we are both STEM nerds too, we loved this! It’s humorous yet informative - I’ll get the toddler version later as well!
Not really set in an inspirational or emotional tone, kinda the opposite really since it’s supposed to resemble an instruction manual, but it’s our favorite book.
This is the perfect book for you :http://www.amazon.com/The-Baby-Owners-Manual-Trouble-Shooting/dp/1594745978
Actually I bought it for my husband with our first, and we ended up finding it quite helpful.
This book is supposed to be for fathers/parterns for labor, but I read it and found it a much better read the the ones geared towards mothers:
http://www.amazon.com/Dads-Playbook-Labor-Birth-Practical-ebook/dp/B008MOFNH6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1426169499&sr=1-1&keywords=father%27s+guide+to+labor
Instruction manual sold separately
There's a lot of awesome suggestions here, but several would depend on your relationship with your coworker. Some of these are rather personal.
I'd personally go for a restaurant gift card and try to find some humorous things. Everyone needs to eat and who doesn't love laughter?!
One of my husband's fave gifts was a baby owners manual.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1594745978/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1409879020&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1594745978/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Gifted this to a couple of new dads in my work group. It’s great.
Pictures. Lots of pictures. They change so fast yet it’s right in front of you, you don’t realize it.
We are on almost the exact same timeline (ahead 1 week) and also having a girl. I too have a younger brother, but honestly anytime I ever imagined having a child it was a girl so I feel like im subconsciously prepared for it. I was more fearful about having a boy!
I would recommend checking out this baby book I got recently which helped put my mind at ease for the infant stage. It reads like an instruction manual and has some good humor in it. Better than any of the other books ive read, and yes it covers wiping, burping, swaddling, etc.
All in all though, i wouldnt stress about the sex. It's going to be a wild ride regardless!
I like to theme my gift around all the things my husband and I had to dash out the door for with my first. Baby Tylenol, a good thermometer, ice packs, mothers milk tea, baby spoons, a very large/warm blanket sleeper for camping or just staying somewhere chilly, things like that. Oh! And everything needed for a good pedicure to celebrate when the mom to be can see her feet again. If it is for a first child, I also like to include a numerous (but helpful) baby care guide for the dad. This is a favorite. If it is not a first child, I like to bring a small present for the older sibling(s). It doesn't have to be big, a coloring book and markers will do, but it is always very appreciated by the child and parents. Hope that helps!
Here is the mobile version of your link
As a engineer dad of twins my wife got me "The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips and Advice on First-Year Maintenance" (http://amzn.com/1594745978) It has a lot of useful information for a first timer and it's presented in a very entertaining way. Other than that I second the jogging stroller.
I bought my stepson this book for Christmas - http://www.amazon.com/Show-Dad-How-Parenting-Magazine/dp/1616281111. Their baby girl arrived 9 days ago and he says it's a great book and he wishes he'd had it months ago. Just sayin'.
Show Dad How
This is a really cute book to read, very informational and entertaining. My husband loved it. It's highly recommended.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1616281111/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1413263268&sr=8-1
This book was awesome:
http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instruction/dp/1931686238
Thought you might like this! Seems Legit!!!
Haha funny thing, my best friend bought me a baby owner's manual written in the same fashion as an appliance instruction manual. It was both humorous and helpful.
Baby Owners Manual for to-the-point advice.
Everywhere Babies is a classic the parents will love reading to their baby. It has great rhyming and as the toddler grows, he/she will enjoy looking at the many types of babies in various types of scenes. The book exudes parental love.
I'm sending my giftee a book too, actually. The Baby Owner's Manual
Here is the mobile version of your link
Awe, congrats!!!
I have 2 kiddos (now 6 and 2 1/2) and the number 1 thing I've learned this that not all kids like the same things. My oldest hated his swing, while my youngest loved it. They both liked the bouncer and jumper, and I only used the baby gym for tummy time (I tried the over head toys, neither kiddos were impressed). Looking back the best things were:
We didn't need
Extras: Books - Be Prepared and of course What to Expect When You're Expecting
:)
First of all, congrats!
Some links for you:
https://www.amazon.com/Expecting-Better-Conventional-Pregnancy-Wrong/dp/0143125702
https://www.amazon.com/What-Expect-When-Youre-Expecting-ebook/dp/B01DCHZE3A/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1500708061&sr=1-1&keywords=what+to+expect+when+you%27re+expecting
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Prepared-Practical-Handbook-Dads-ebook/dp/B000SEKFZI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500708024&sr=8-1&keywords=be+prepared
https://www.amazon.com/What-Expect-First-Heidi-Murkoff-ebook/dp/B00KVRDACW/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1500708115&sr=1-1&keywords=what+to+expect+the+first+year
I had just accepted a new job, and we had arranged for me to have the car that day so that I could go take my pre-employment drug test. I had POAS earlier that week and it was negative, and I knew I wasn't pregnant, but I thought how awkward it would be if I somehow was and it showed up on the drug test and my new company knew I was pregnant before I did. So I took a test after dropping DH off at work. Just to be sure I wasn't. And, yeah...
Took like 3 more tests throughout the course of that afternoon, and spent the day pacing around the house and around Target for a digital test, a onesie, and this book. Picked DH up from work and had to explain that I had not made it to my drug test that day, nor had I gotten anything ready for dinner. He kept his tone in check, but I could tell he thought I was the laziest wife ever.
When we got home though, I said "Well, I know I didn't figure out anything for dinner, but I did figure out one thing today..." and led him into the nursery where I had put the onesie and the book on display with all the tests. He got a big smile on his face and said "Really?!" He felt better about having such a 'lazy' wife when I explained the reason I didn't go to the drug test - I didn't have any pee left!
Be Prepared Really helped me, very easy read, and filled with good tips for new dads. Congratulations!
We received A Practical Guide for Dads as a gift and enjoyed it a lot.
I'd also recommend The Happiest Baby on the Block and Simplicity Parenting. Just my favorite parenting books, really, rather than anything geared toward "dad". Mayo Clinic was my favorite pregnancy book, however, so good choice.
I had my, now 7 y/o, daughter when I was 26. My bf was a young 23. Women, regardless of the age, usually have pictured themselves as parents. They've spent someamount of time imagining the sort of mom they'd be. They know what's acceptable and what's not with parenting more so than men- it's in our wheelhouse- I'm not being sexist.
So when I had my baby I'd already had experience with small children. I'd handled babies, changed diapers, babysat- other things a lot of boys don't experience as a kid.
My bf avoided doing things at first, like changing our preemie baby's clothing. He wouldn't take the initiative, but he communicated that he was terrified he'd hurt her-he never handled a baby before!
So I had him shadow me while I did those things. I told him what I was doing and why I was doing it that way. I did this with clothing. Bathing. Diapering. Burping was a scary one for both of us bc over the shoulder was harderso we practiced sitting her on our lap, her lil chin in our burp-rag-covered-hand while patting her back.
Bc we are highly communicative he expressed his concerns and we fixed them.
Do you guys really communicate in a positive way? I ask that bc some people may think they do, but there's a big difference btw in the heat of the moment when angry and tired and in pain snipping "Why don't you get off your phone and help me!" And waiting for a quiet moment when baby is asleep to tell your partner "We need to have a serious talk, so I need you to put the phone down and be present with me for a minute. You've been avoiding getting involved with taking care of the baby. Being in the room with your phoneup to your face all day is not the same as being present, and it's really frustrating for me to be the only one doing all the work. I pump, so there's no reason why I'm the only one feeding the baby. You avoid doing things, and I don't know why. Maybe you're unaware of how to do certain things, or your having trouble bonding with the baby, but I need you to put your phone down and be present.'
Some people don't realize what they're doing is wrong bc they're unaware of the right way. Tell him that binkies are great if they work but not all babies are soothed so easily. Some need to be wrapped like a burrito. Some need constant rocking, or holding them on your shoulder and steadily patting them on the bum or back. He may not be aware of what he's doing bc its not like babies come with a manual!
In fact, my 16 y/o cousin just had a baby and I bought her a copy of this book, which helped my bf and I with our own newborn bc new parents need help with some stuff!. It breaks down everything in a funny, illustrated format from wrapping baby snuggly to feedings to soothing-everything!
Did he use his phone this much pre-baby and you only just realized how bad it was bc your expectations of his presence have grown now that there's a baby in your life? Lots of people have unhealthy phone habits but usually their loved ones don't care until it's getting in the way of keeping their attention.
The numbers are Weeks and Days. So 38 + 2 would be 38 weeks + 2 days.
As for resources, I just Googled a lot. Granted, it's the internet so who knows, but it's not a bad place to start.
https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting-ebook/dp/B009U9S6D0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1539721229&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+user+manual
Is also a lot of fun. :)
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As an engineer I saw this book and was drawn to it. The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance
I haven't read it yet but was thinking about getting it: https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting-ebook/dp/B009U9S6D0/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1498253075&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.ca/Baby-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Trouble-Shooting-ebook/dp/B009U9S6D0/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=
Theres a manual for that, theres also a toddler and sex version their really cute and written in that same format.
I bought this book from Amazon to give to my husband along with a really sweet card I found today. He isn't much for actually reading books, but I feel like the humor in it and the silly manual-like terminology will be fun for him to take a look at.
Congratulations! I found Dr. Sears to be pretty helpful. Also, the Baby Owners Manual for the mechanics of year 1.
Edit: corrected url. Also, it's okay for her to have a beer or 1/2 glass of wine now and then, especially after 20 weeks.
Here are some things I found vital.
-Car seat. Of course. Buy new, it's worth it for this one item. Everything else can be secondhand.
-Rags. You can use what you already have but try to pick up some more cheap dishrags cuz baby's gonna puke A LOT.
-Diaper changing pads. One for at home and one for the diaper bag.
-Diaper bag. I had one big one and one small one depending on how long we were going to be gone. You don't need anything fancy just something to carry your diapers and formula/breast milk.
-Tiny garbage bags for the diaper bag! Don't want to put the used leaky diapers back into the diaper bag loose.
-I'd invest in a diaper changing station. Not 100% necessary, but very convenient. I set mine up on top of her dresser.
-DON'T BUY A BUMBO SEAT. Ugh those things are terrible.
-After baby is born and you know what size he is. Then go to the resale store and buy nice warm baby clothes. Warm sleeping clothes are better than lots of blankets.
-Bottles. Breast pump if she is breast feeding and formula if she is not.
-The very best book on raising a baby was The Baby Owner Manual I'd highly recommend it.
Um so what college are you both going to?
Also who says belly laughs? Are you pregnant?