On Becoming Babywise - Book reviews of On Becoming Babywise

'On Becoming Babywise' book reviews

Review for'On Becoming Babywise'

"On Becoming Babywise" by Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam is a parenting guide that has garnered significant attention and sparked considerable debate since its publication. The book is primarily focused on sleep training, offering a structured approach to help parents establish healthy sleep habits for their infants. With its promise of a well-rested baby and, consequently, well-rested parents, "On Becoming Babywise" has become a popular choice among new and expectant parents.

The authors advocate for a method known as "Parent-Directed Feeding" (PDF), which emphasizes a balance between a baby's needs and the parents' schedule. This approach is designed to create a predictable routine that includes feeding, waking, and sleeping times. According to Ezzo and Bucknam, this structured routine not only helps infants sleep through the night by 8 to 12 weeks of age but also promotes healthy development and a sense of security for the child.

One of the strengths of "On Becoming Babywise" is its clear and concise writing style. The authors present their ideas in a straightforward manner, making it easy for parents to understand and implement their strategies. The book is well-organized, with each chapter building on the previous one, guiding parents through the process step-by-step. The inclusion of real-life anecdotes and testimonials from parents who have successfully used the Babywise method adds credibility and relatability to the text.

However, "On Becoming Babywise" is not without its controversies. Critics argue that the PDF approach can be too rigid and may not adequately consider the individual needs and temperaments of different babies. Some medical professionals have raised concerns that the emphasis on scheduling feedings can lead to issues such as inadequate weight gain and dehydration if parents strictly adhere to the guidelines without considering their baby's hunger cues. Additionally, some parents may find the method stressful, particularly during the initial stages of sleep training.

Another point of contention is the book's stance on "cry it out" techniques, which some parents and experts find distressing and potentially harmful. While Ezzo and Bucknam advocate for a modified version of this approach, emphasizing the importance of not letting a baby cry for extended periods, the concept remains a polarizing topic in the parenting community.

Despite these criticisms, many parents have found success with the Babywise method, reporting that their babies sleep through the night earlier than expected and seem happier and more content during the day. The book's focus on establishing a routine can also provide a sense of structure and predictability for parents, which can be particularly comforting during the often chaotic early months of parenthood.

In summary, "On Becoming Babywise" offers a detailed and structured approach to sleep training that has both its proponents and detractors. While the book's clear guidelines and emphasis on routine can be helpful for many parents, it is essential to consider the individual needs of each baby and to consult with a pediatrician before implementing any new sleep or feeding strategies. As with any parenting advice, what works for one family may not work for another, and flexibility and responsiveness to a baby's unique needs should always be a priority.

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