When I first because a parent, I was introduced to the "Babywise" series by the Ezzos. We have appreciated the information and have used much of it. Lately, I've heard mentioned the book called "The Secrets of the Baby Whisper" which I understand uses many of the same princples. Is anyone familiar with both books? How are they different? My neighbor is about to have a baby and likes how I raise my kids. If either, which of these books would be best for a new mom?
Before practicing Ezzo, I strongly suggest you look at www.ezzo.info. His practices are dangerous and can be damaging to babies and children.
I suggest reading up on Dr. Sears. He has wonderful loving ways of being a great parent.
I read both Babywise and the Baby Whisperer, and don't see much in common between them myself. Before getting too into anything the Ezzos write, however, you might want to do a bit of research on the history and problems surrounding their enterprise. When I read Babywise, I was a bit concerned about the strictness of the feeding schedule, but otherwise had few opinions. However, after taking the Ezzo's class for parents of preschool and elementary aged children, I have serious concerns about the Ezzos' credibility. In my professional opinion, they have very little understanding of child development (and their theology is questionable as well). As it turns out, babies have had considerable health issues after their parents followed the Babywise guidelines strictly.
I have read Babywise and started to read the Baby Whisperer. I definitely prefer Babywise. It was a lot of very common sense ideas whereas the Baby Whisperer I couldn't even finish! Plus, if you have used Babywise advice yourself that would be the one to buy someone else. It is hard to give something to someone that you haven't tried yourself. Good luck!
I just did a real quick scan of both books at Amazon.com, and I like both. I think if THE BABY WHISPERER is as direct and to the point writing styled as they say, I'd go for that book first. It seems a lot is about lifestyles and time management with a baby so you don't go insane over every little detail. For that reason, I'd pick BABY WHISPERER....but overall, either book would make a lovely and caring gift. P.
My children are 7 and 9 and I have followed Babywise since my oldest was 4 weeks old. It's only as strict as you make it. It even says in all of the books (and their websites) if you think your baby is hungry-NO MATTER how long it has been, feed him/her. If you think they need consoled, do that. My children learned to sleep on their own and they still sleep 12 hours a night and are on a good schedule-I love it and so does everyone else who watches them. They are not whiney and fussy-they have pretty positive attitudes. If the baby is crying in your arms and can't be consoled, it's not any worse laying them down to sleep. Most babies who cry is from them being tired. I can spot a tired baby almost anytime. They need their sleep to learn/grow/develop. Again, I took what was helpful to me out of the books and didn't go overboard. I think they have a great process and every child I know who has been "raised" that way is very happy and healthful. You have to use common sense. Now, after that long book-I've never heard of the other! Good luck with whatever you choose!!!
A.
I have one son who just turned one and I used the babywise book like it was a dictionary and still do. I found that it really helped me get him on a schedule and bedtime routine real quick. I think in doing anyhing you have to be willing to take any advice in either book as advice and do with it as you please. I followed the book because I felt they were right with what they had to say. In doing so he has been on a routine since he was 1 months old. It's really nice because I can tell when he needs to be fed or go to bed. Godd luck with either book!
i believe both would be good
Hi A. -
While I was pregnant, I read both books. Secrets of the Babywhisperer was better adapted to my personality. I think it is just a personal preference as to which book you prefer. I know mothers who swear by Babywise. If you follow either of the methodologies, a new mom will find success. My boy slept through the night the very day he turned 2 months old. I have continued to use the SOTBW methodology to deal with other issues as well. Either of these books would make a nice gift to the new mom.
