Are you sick of the sight of know-it-all parenting handbooks?
Parenting advice coming out your ears? Forget all the serious reads and take a leaf out of these five books, which feature a more light-hearted view of parenthood, as well as a little bit of sage advice along the way. In fact, we reckon they’re probably the only type of parenting manuals you really need in your life.
1. How to be a hip mama without losing your cool
When Jenny Scott had her son she thought she was prepared for motherhood, but in reality, and like most of us, she had no idea of the challenges. Sick of daytime TV, she set out to meet a group of friends with the same interests as her; mums who were embracing motherhood as a new, exciting chapter in their lives. In this book, Jenny and some of her cool mama friends share their knowledge on how to embrace motherhood but still be you, including a variety of topics – from quick make-up fixes and school-run fashion pointers, to how to regain your personal identity and dealing with postnatal depression.
2. Preggatinis: Mixology for the Mom-to-Be
Not having much to do with pregnancy itself (apart from drinking pregnancy-friendly cocktails – hurrah), this book features 75 original Preggatini recipes, highlighting fresh juices, herbs, and garnishes, as well as ideas for Preggatini Parties. Organised by pregnancy stages and symptoms, this lavishly illustrated, pocket-sized guide also offers quotes from famous mums about pregnancy and health; and drink options for those who can consume alcohol (if you’re feeling generous).
3. The Rough Guide to Pregnancy & Birth
A firm HerFamily favourite, The Rough Guide to Pregnancy & Birth is an informative but very funny lowdown on pregnancy, birth and coping when you first get home. This week-by-week guide to what’s happening to you and the baby – from coping with morning sickness, to breastfeeding for the first time – was written by Kaz Cooke, an Australian author and cartoonist who offers sane and witty advice without any of the bossiness. It has everything you need to know about the scary parts, the funny parts and your private parts.
4. From Dude to Dad: The Diaper Dude Guide to Pregnancy
This book contains absolutely no expert advice or medical guidance, which is good news for any (probably all) dads who would rather pass on reading about mucus plugs and colostrum. What you will find is a candid, quick and often irreverent roadmap for making the most of your own personal transition from Dude to Dad.
A tongue-in-cheek look at raising children while maintaining a sense of self, The Three-Martini Playdate is not your average parenting manual (thankfully), but it will give you a laugh. While it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it will appeal to those who know how to appreciate quality time for the grownups, and understand that maintaining a sense of humour is important for your sanity as well as your children’s.
