|
Browse categories
|
 |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 Customer Reviews
Baby weaning Bible!, 22 Nov 2008
We simply refer to this book as 'The Food Bible'. I have used it constantly since starting to wean my daughter. She is now over one and I'm still getting my money's worth out of it. Some of the recipes have become family favourites! Simple, practical recipes which are tasty, what more could you ask. I found I picked about 5 or 6 from each age range and kept cooking batches, adapting to suit what i had in the cupboard, and to my daughters changing tastes. Good practical advice and a great starting point for weaning and cooking for a family.
learn to love cooking!, 06 Nov 2008
I've never been one for cooking, and I was never taught how to cook either.
This book has been great for learning how to enjoy cooking, and both my son and I have really benefited from it.
The recipes are simple, and I still dip into the book now, even though my son's older, for inspiration. The pages are covered in food splashes and half of them are repaired with sellotape, a sign of a well used, well loved receipe book :o)
Essential for every Mum facing the weaning milestone!, 21 Oct 2008
I bought this book, along with the Gina Ford one, because everyone I know has it and so I figured they were on to something! Have to say I have been really impressed with the information in it and also the recipes. I've used them as the basis for weaning my daughter - initially the puree recipes are pretty basic and you wonder why you needed a book but now she's nearly 7 months, the recipes give great ideas for introducing protein and different foods. They also tell you about good combinations. The only thing I don't like is the timings of meals and bottles as Annabel seems to have an extra feed a day so I simply used Gina's timings and Annabel's recipes which worked for us. I felt quite daunted by the prospect of weaning, feeling like we'd just got the whole milk/breast/bottle thing sussed but like with all things baby, read a few books and then adapt to your needs & you'll be find. Happy pureeing!
Fabulous book for advice and recipes, 30 Sep 2008
I have recommended this book to everyone. It's full of good advice for different weaning stages. And I cook the 9months + recipes for my husband...he always says how nice they are and then I tell them that the meal was designed for a 12 month old!! Lovely food for babies, toddlers, and adults.
Location, location, location, 10 Sep 2008
This book does give lots of interesting ideas, but depending on your location, many of the ingredients might not be readily available, like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash and some fruits. There also seem to be a lot of fish recipes.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Baby weaning Bible!, 22 Nov 2008
We simply refer to this book as 'The Food Bible'. I have used it constantly since starting to wean my daughter. She is now over one and I'm still getting my money's worth out of it. Some of the recipes have become family favourites! Simple, practical recipes which are tasty, what more could you ask. I found I picked about 5 or 6 from each age range and kept cooking batches, adapting to suit what i had in the cupboard, and to my daughters changing tastes. Good practical advice and a great starting point for weaning and cooking for a family.
learn to love cooking!, 06 Nov 2008
I've never been one for cooking, and I was never taught how to cook either.
This book has been great for learning how to enjoy cooking, and both my son and I have really benefited from it.
The recipes are simple, and I still dip into the book now, even though my son's older, for inspiration. The pages are covered in food splashes and half of them are repaired with sellotape, a sign of a well used, well loved receipe book :o)
Essential for every Mum facing the weaning milestone!, 21 Oct 2008
I bought this book, along with the Gina Ford one, because everyone I know has it and so I figured they were on to something! Have to say I have been really impressed with the information in it and also the recipes. I've used them as the basis for weaning my daughter - initially the puree recipes are pretty basic and you wonder why you needed a book but now she's nearly 7 months, the recipes give great ideas for introducing protein and different foods. They also tell you about good combinations. The only thing I don't like is the timings of meals and bottles as Annabel seems to have an extra feed a day so I simply used Gina's timings and Annabel's recipes which worked for us. I felt quite daunted by the prospect of weaning, feeling like we'd just got the whole milk/breast/bottle thing sussed but like with all things baby, read a few books and then adapt to your needs & you'll be find. Happy pureeing!
Fabulous book for advice and recipes, 30 Sep 2008
I have recommended this book to everyone. It's full of good advice for different weaning stages. And I cook the 9months + recipes for my husband...he always says how nice they are and then I tell them that the meal was designed for a 12 month old!! Lovely food for babies, toddlers, and adults.
Location, location, location, 10 Sep 2008
This book does give lots of interesting ideas, but depending on your location, many of the ingredients might not be readily available, like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash and some fruits. There also seem to be a lot of fish recipes.
Is it coincidence, or has this book really made my life with kids better!?, 16 Oct 2008
I bought this book about three months ago after a particularly bad week with my boys (aged 2 and 4). A lot of tantrums, whining, shouting, crying (on all parts) plus the anxiety of starting school made me feel I really needed to change something. I had read an earlier book by the same author (Siblings without Rivalry) and liked the style so gave it a go.
The first few weeks were a difficult transition. Trying the new methods, yet in the back of mind doubting them, I kept reverting back to the usual methods (after all naughty steps and reward charts seem so popular these days). Again - a difficult week and I gave it another go.
After four weeks of effort on my part we finally started getting somewhere and slowly but surely their suggested behaviour and responses became more natural.Three months on, I can honestly say we all have a much better relationship. I still shout (which thankfully is `allowed' in this book) - but situations don't spiral out of control... I am angry about a situation, I suggest better options and we all carry on. I don't bombard my son with questions about school - `who did you play with', `did you eat lunch' and yet he chats much more readily. My two year old still has tantrums and a very determined personality; but even he has softened and seems to respond much better.
Fingers crossed it isn't coincidence or a phase and I have really have made things better!
Sanity Found - All Parents Should Read, 13 Sep 2008
I was looking for some serious guides on my children - this book put it all into perspective and gave me some wonderful guidelines - I've recommended it to loads of friends and some even finish the title before me and smile noting the help it provided. GET THIS BOOK TODAY!
We can't get enough , 18 Feb 2008
This book is excellent. Parents, who want lasting discipline, in the true sense of the word [teaching], look no further. As other reviewers have said, there is no quick fix. If that's what you are after, God help your kids!
As an author, I also found the techniques and suggestions easy to pick up and assimilate.
It is relevant for school, home and life in general.
We can't get enough of this kind of material.
Useful book and relevant but no masterpiece!, 20 Dec 2007
I am a mother of three boys aged 2, 4 and 5. Getting them to cooperate is sometimes such a challenge. And it is difficult to focus attention to three at a time so I often have the feeling that one will cry, no matter what I do or don't do. I bought this book because I was looking for ways to improve my communication with my elder boys (aged 4 and 5) who sometimes can seem so unreasonable and so defiant to me and their father. The book has helped me reacting differently and communicating comfort better to my children but I found it a touch too simplistic. I need not do my homework and see drawings to understand what this is all about. Examples are useful but I need not read ten very similar examples to get the message. It seemed to me that it was bit of a school text rather than a book aimed at grown up parents. Moreover, most examples focused on elder children (e.g. aged 8, 10 or older) contrary to what I expected, i.e. advice for communicating with toddlers and pre schoolers. In conclusion, I do recommend the book as a useful guide to improving communication with your children but it is certainly not the best book I have ever read on parenting.
My new bible, 29 Oct 2007
Really useful book.
I read it over and over again.
Excellent tips for keeping kids motivated and behaving well.
I have recommended this book to all my friends.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Baby weaning Bible!, 22 Nov 2008
We simply refer to this book as 'The Food Bible'. I have used it constantly since starting to wean my daughter. She is now over one and I'm still getting my money's worth out of it. Some of the recipes have become family favourites! Simple, practical recipes which are tasty, what more could you ask. I found I picked about 5 or 6 from each age range and kept cooking batches, adapting to suit what i had in the cupboard, and to my daughters changing tastes. Good practical advice and a great starting point for weaning and cooking for a family.
learn to love cooking!, 06 Nov 2008
I've never been one for cooking, and I was never taught how to cook either.
This book has been great for learning how to enjoy cooking, and both my son and I have really benefited from it.
The recipes are simple, and I still dip into the book now, even though my son's older, for inspiration. The pages are covered in food splashes and half of them are repaired with sellotape, a sign of a well used, well loved receipe book :o)
Essential for every Mum facing the weaning milestone!, 21 Oct 2008
I bought this book, along with the Gina Ford one, because everyone I know has it and so I figured they were on to something! Have to say I have been really impressed with the information in it and also the recipes. I've used them as the basis for weaning my daughter - initially the puree recipes are pretty basic and you wonder why you needed a book but now she's nearly 7 months, the recipes give great ideas for introducing protein and different foods. They also tell you about good combinations. The only thing I don't like is the timings of meals and bottles as Annabel seems to have an extra feed a day so I simply used Gina's timings and Annabel's recipes which worked for us. I felt quite daunted by the prospect of weaning, feeling like we'd just got the whole milk/breast/bottle thing sussed but like with all things baby, read a few books and then adapt to your needs & you'll be find. Happy pureeing!
Fabulous book for advice and recipes, 30 Sep 2008
I have recommended this book to everyone. It's full of good advice for different weaning stages. And I cook the 9months + recipes for my husband...he always says how nice they are and then I tell them that the meal was designed for a 12 month old!! Lovely food for babies, toddlers, and adults.
Location, location, location, 10 Sep 2008
This book does give lots of interesting ideas, but depending on your location, many of the ingredients might not be readily available, like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash and some fruits. There also seem to be a lot of fish recipes.
Is it coincidence, or has this book really made my life with kids better!?, 16 Oct 2008
I bought this book about three months ago after a particularly bad week with my boys (aged 2 and 4). A lot of tantrums, whining, shouting, crying (on all parts) plus the anxiety of starting school made me feel I really needed to change something. I had read an earlier book by the same author (Siblings without Rivalry) and liked the style so gave it a go.
The first few weeks were a difficult transition. Trying the new methods, yet in the back of mind doubting them, I kept reverting back to the usual methods (after all naughty steps and reward charts seem so popular these days). Again - a difficult week and I gave it another go.
After four weeks of effort on my part we finally started getting somewhere and slowly but surely their suggested behaviour and responses became more natural.Three months on, I can honestly say we all have a much better relationship. I still shout (which thankfully is `allowed' in this book) - but situations don't spiral out of control... I am angry about a situation, I suggest better options and we all carry on. I don't bombard my son with questions about school - `who did you play with', `did you eat lunch' and yet he chats much more readily. My two year old still has tantrums and a very determined personality; but even he has softened and seems to respond much better.
Fingers crossed it isn't coincidence or a phase and I have really have made things better!
Sanity Found - All Parents Should Read, 13 Sep 2008
I was looking for some serious guides on my children - this book put it all into perspective and gave me some wonderful guidelines - I've recommended it to loads of friends and some even finish the title before me and smile noting the help it provided. GET THIS BOOK TODAY!
We can't get enough , 18 Feb 2008
This book is excellent. Parents, who want lasting discipline, in the true sense of the word [teaching], look no further. As other reviewers have said, there is no quick fix. If that's what you are after, God help your kids!
As an author, I also found the techniques and suggestions easy to pick up and assimilate.
It is relevant for school, home and life in general.
We can't get enough of this kind of material.
Useful book and relevant but no masterpiece!, 20 Dec 2007
I am a mother of three boys aged 2, 4 and 5. Getting them to cooperate is sometimes such a challenge. And it is difficult to focus attention to three at a time so I often have the feeling that one will cry, no matter what I do or don't do. I bought this book because I was looking for ways to improve my communication with my elder boys (aged 4 and 5) who sometimes can seem so unreasonable and so defiant to me and their father. The book has helped me reacting differently and communicating comfort better to my children but I found it a touch too simplistic. I need not do my homework and see drawings to understand what this is all about. Examples are useful but I need not read ten very similar examples to get the message. It seemed to me that it was bit of a school text rather than a book aimed at grown up parents. Moreover, most examples focused on elder children (e.g. aged 8, 10 or older) contrary to what I expected, i.e. advice for communicating with toddlers and pre schoolers. In conclusion, I do recommend the book as a useful guide to improving communication with your children but it is certainly not the best book I have ever read on parenting.
My new bible, 29 Oct 2007
Really useful book.
I read it over and over again.
Excellent tips for keeping kids motivated and behaving well.
I have recommended this book to all my friends.
A look at things through the eyes of an economist., 08 Oct 2008
This book is a general interest book- and it certainly is interesting. The book, for anyone looking for an entertaining read, will like it. In a nutshell, the book takes a look at all sorts of things in society, from crack gangs to parenting, and then attempts to make sense of them by applying econonmic principles. According to the book, economics is really the study of incentives, and so using this kind of angle, the book comes up with answers to why things work the way they do.
A book that's hard to put down, I'm sure many readers will enjoy it. Also recommend The Sixty-Second Motivator for a more simplistic explanation of what motivates people and gives them incentives to do what they do.
Ho hum not very interesting application of numerical data to sociology, 26 Aug 2008
I really can't see why this book attracted much interest. It's a collection of not very interesting observations, some obvious (children of rich parents do better than children of poor parents, estate agents are more interested in their commissions than in getting you the best price for your house), others tendentious (the crime statistics prove that more adding police reduces crime, IQ is hereditary). By and large the authors' opinions and observations are middle-of-road conservative, with some liberalism on race issues. Very little of this is about economics, just the application of some minute degree of numerical rigour to social issues. I'd skip it if I were you.
Fun & interesting, 17 Aug 2008
This is a really interesting romp through some fairly random questions like "How is the KKK like a group of estate agents". The answers to the questions that drive this book are well discussed and backed up with research. Logical thought processes which bring to light some interesting answers. I particularly liked the discussion about reduction in crime rates being related to abortion policy (rather than policing or improved government crime prevention policies).
I'd agree with other reviewers in that it was a bit light on content...I got to the end and wanted more, but worth a read.
If you only read one book about economics, make sure this is the one, 13 Aug 2008
One could maybe argue that this isn't an economics book at all but instead a collection of connected essays drawing on concepts from economics and statistics to get the point across.
I find the style of writing very easy to get on with, and the book as a whole very easy to read. In many ways I wish this book had been written before I studies economics all those years ago as it would have been a good introduction to some concepts from the world of economics presented in a way which means that anyone can enjoy this book.
Many other reviews on here have already mentioned a lot of the good points about this book so I won't go on and repeat it all here. All that's left for me to say is ... go for it, give this book a go.
Fun, informative read, 16 Jun 2008
I am 23, studying Physics with strong interest in finance/market and investments. I found this book very interesting and fun as well.
English is not my mother tongue, but this book is so well written that didn't give me any trouble.
Totally recommended
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Baby weaning Bible!, 22 Nov 2008
We simply refer to this book as 'The Food Bible'. I have used it constantly since starting to wean my daughter. She is now over one and I'm still getting my money's worth out of it. Some of the recipes have become family favourites! Simple, practical recipes which are tasty, what more could you ask. I found I picked about 5 or 6 from each age range and kept cooking batches, adapting to suit what i had in the cupboard, and to my daughters changing tastes. Good practical advice and a great starting point for weaning and cooking for a family.
learn to love cooking!, 06 Nov 2008
I've never been one for cooking, and I was never taught how to cook either.
This book has been great for learning how to enjoy cooking, and both my son and I have really benefited from it.
The recipes are simple, and I still dip into the book now, even though my son's older, for inspiration. The pages are covered in food splashes and half of them are repaired with sellotape, a sign of a well used, well loved receipe book :o)
Essential for every Mum facing the weaning milestone!, 21 Oct 2008
I bought this book, along with the Gina Ford one, because everyone I know has it and so I figured they were on to something! Have to say I have been really impressed with the information in it and also the recipes. I've used them as the basis for weaning my daughter - initially the puree recipes are pretty basic and you wonder why you needed a book but now she's nearly 7 months, the recipes give great ideas for introducing protein and different foods. They also tell you about good combinations. The only thing I don't like is the timings of meals and bottles as Annabel seems to have an extra feed a day so I simply used Gina's timings and Annabel's recipes which worked for us. I felt quite daunted by the prospect of weaning, feeling like we'd just got the whole milk/breast/bottle thing sussed but like with all things baby, read a few books and then adapt to your needs & you'll be find. Happy pureeing!
Fabulous book for advice and recipes, 30 Sep 2008
I have recommended this book to everyone. It's full of good advice for different weaning stages. And I cook the 9months + recipes for my husband...he always says how nice they are and then I tell them that the meal was designed for a 12 month old!! Lovely food for babies, toddlers, and adults.
Location, location, location, 10 Sep 2008
This book does give lots of interesting ideas, but depending on your location, many of the ingredients might not be readily available, like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash and some fruits. There also seem to be a lot of fish recipes.
Is it coincidence, or has this book really made my life with kids better!?, 16 Oct 2008
I bought this book about three months ago after a particularly bad week with my boys (aged 2 and 4). A lot of tantrums, whining, shouting, crying (on all parts) plus the anxiety of starting school made me feel I really needed to change something. I had read an earlier book by the same author (Siblings without Rivalry) and liked the style so gave it a go.
The first few weeks were a difficult transition. Trying the new methods, yet in the back of mind doubting them, I kept reverting back to the usual methods (after all naughty steps and reward charts seem so popular these days). Again - a difficult week and I gave it another go.
After four weeks of effort on my part we finally started getting somewhere and slowly but surely their suggested behaviour and responses became more natural.Three months on, I can honestly say we all have a much better relationship. I still shout (which thankfully is `allowed' in this book) - but situations don't spiral out of control... I am angry about a situation, I suggest better options and we all carry on. I don't bombard my son with questions about school - `who did you play with', `did you eat lunch' and yet he chats much more readily. My two year old still has tantrums and a very determined personality; but even he has softened and seems to respond much better.
Fingers crossed it isn't coincidence or a phase and I have really have made things better!
Sanity Found - All Parents Should Read, 13 Sep 2008
I was looking for some serious guides on my children - this book put it all into perspective and gave me some wonderful guidelines - I've recommended it to loads of friends and some even finish the title before me and smile noting the help it provided. GET THIS BOOK TODAY!
We can't get enough , 18 Feb 2008
This book is excellent. Parents, who want lasting discipline, in the true sense of the word [teaching], look no further. As other reviewers have said, there is no quick fix. If that's what you are after, God help your kids!
As an author, I also found the techniques and suggestions easy to pick up and assimilate.
It is relevant for school, home and life in general.
We can't get enough of this kind of material.
Useful book and relevant but no masterpiece!, 20 Dec 2007
I am a mother of three boys aged 2, 4 and 5. Getting them to cooperate is sometimes such a challenge. And it is difficult to focus attention to three at a time so I often have the feeling that one will cry, no matter what I do or don't do. I bought this book because I was looking for ways to improve my communication with my elder boys (aged 4 and 5) who sometimes can seem so unreasonable and so defiant to me and their father. The book has helped me reacting differently and communicating comfort better to my children but I found it a touch too simplistic. I need not do my homework and see drawings to understand what this is all about. Examples are useful but I need not read ten very similar examples to get the message. It seemed to me that it was bit of a school text rather than a book aimed at grown up parents. Moreover, most examples focused on elder children (e.g. aged 8, 10 or older) contrary to what I expected, i.e. advice for communicating with toddlers and pre schoolers. In conclusion, I do recommend the book as a useful guide to improving communication with your children but it is certainly not the best book I have ever read on parenting.
My new bible, 29 Oct 2007
Really useful book.
I read it over and over again.
Excellent tips for keeping kids motivated and behaving well.
I have recommended this book to all my friends.
A look at things through the eyes of an economist., 08 Oct 2008
This book is a general interest book- and it certainly is interesting. The book, for anyone looking for an entertaining read, will like it. In a nutshell, the book takes a look at all sorts of things in society, from crack gangs to parenting, and then attempts to make sense of them by applying econonmic principles. According to the book, economics is really the study of incentives, and so using this kind of angle, the book comes up with answers to why things work the way they do.
A book that's hard to put down, I'm sure many readers will enjoy it. Also recommend The Sixty-Second Motivator for a more simplistic explanation of what motivates people and gives them incentives to do what they do.
Ho hum not very interesting application of numerical data to sociology, 26 Aug 2008
I really can't see why this book attracted much interest. It's a collection of not very interesting observations, some obvious (children of rich parents do better than children of poor parents, estate agents are more interested in their commissions than in getting you the best price for your house), others tendentious (the crime statistics prove that more adding police reduces crime, IQ is hereditary). By and large the authors' opinions and observations are middle-of-road conservative, with some liberalism on race issues. Very little of this is about economics, just the application of some minute degree of numerical rigour to social issues. I'd skip it if I were you.
Fun & interesting, 17 Aug 2008
This is a really interesting romp through some fairly random questions like "How is the KKK like a group of estate agents". The answers to the questions that drive this book are well discussed and backed up with research. Logical thought processes which bring to light some interesting answers. I particularly liked the discussion about reduction in crime rates being related to abortion policy (rather than policing or improved government crime prevention policies).
I'd agree with other reviewers in that it was a bit light on content...I got to the end and wanted more, but worth a read.
If you only read one book about economics, make sure this is the one, 13 Aug 2008
One could maybe argue that this isn't an economics book at all but instead a collection of connected essays drawing on concepts from economics and statistics to get the point across.
I find the style of writing very easy to get on with, and the book as a whole very easy to read. In many ways I wish this book had been written before I studies economics all those years ago as it would have been a good introduction to some concepts from the world of economics presented in a way which means that anyone can enjoy this book.
Many other reviews on here have already mentioned a lot of the good points about this book so I won't go on and repeat it all here. All that's left for me to say is ... go for it, give this book a go.
Fun, informative read, 16 Jun 2008
I am 23, studying Physics with strong interest in finance/market and investments. I found this book very interesting and fun as well.
English is not my mother tongue, but this book is so well written that didn't give me any trouble.
Totally recommended
Can serve the whole family, 22 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my son's first solid food and I wasn't dissapointed. Although you probably don't need a recipe to make an apple pure, once you're past the first stage, it's getting more interesting. I cooked my son many meals from that book and served them (not mashed) to his Daddy too - they both loved them! Gives you ideas how to combine flavours and you can get surprised.
Presentation is nice and although I owe some other cook books for children - this one is by far my favourite one.
Please consider the alternative way to wean..., 12 Nov 2008
There is a great new book for parents who like to consider the options and chose the best way for their baby and their family: Baby-led Weaning: Helping Your Baby to Love Good Food (Rapley & Murkett).
Purees are unnecessary for babies of 6 months and over, who are developmentally capable of starting on suitable finger food. Free your baby from the boredom of purees and enable your baby to start with a healthy and happy relationship with real food!
Essential feeding for your little one, 25 Oct 2008
I bought this book before I had my daughter but didn't actually bother to pick it up until she was 4 months old. I haven't put it down since. If someone had aked me how to make chicken stock from stratch this time last year I would have laughed at them.
This book gives simple and delicious recipes for your babies to enjoy. They are a little time taking at first (if you are not a 'cooky' person) but once you get the hang of it there's no holding you back. The recipes are explained clearly and don't require a mountain of ingredients.
There is nothing in this book my daughter has wolfed down!
Essential reading for any new parent.
A must have!, 18 Oct 2008
Annabel Karmel's New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner
Annabel Karmel is like the Nigella of the weaning world lol. Her recipes are unbelievably easy to follow, even for someone like me who is not by any means an accomplished cook! Our baby now eats better than we do, but I'm going to try and adapt some of the recipes to suit all of the family.
One thing I will say though, I bought this at the same time as buying Annabel's "New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner" - I've found that a lot of the recipes are similar, if not the same, and having both books isn't necessary.
Useful but not enough variety!, 15 Oct 2008
I really liked the look of this book and I had already used the Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner by Annabel Karmel, so I bought this expecting it to build on the older edition and have something new to offer for the eary stages of weaning.
Sadly, I dont think it met expectations. Lots of the recipes were duplicated from the other book and the information in the introductions to each chapter also seemed like an abridged version of the other book.
I appreciate there are only so many vegetable and fruit purees that you can use to wean your baby but I would still have expected this book to have more to offer that its older counterpart.
My advice would be don't bother with it if you have the other one, and if you are in two minds which to get, at least the other one will see you through toddler-dom as well.
Happy Pureeing!
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Baby weaning Bible!, 22 Nov 2008
We simply refer to this book as 'The Food Bible'. I have used it constantly since starting to wean my daughter. She is now over one and I'm still getting my money's worth out of it. Some of the recipes have become family favourites! Simple, practical recipes which are tasty, what more could you ask. I found I picked about 5 or 6 from each age range and kept cooking batches, adapting to suit what i had in the cupboard, and to my daughters changing tastes. Good practical advice and a great starting point for weaning and cooking for a family.
learn to love cooking!, 06 Nov 2008
I've never been one for cooking, and I was never taught how to cook either.
This book has been great for learning how to enjoy cooking, and both my son and I have really benefited from it.
The recipes are simple, and I still dip into the book now, even though my son's older, for inspiration. The pages are covered in food splashes and half of them are repaired with sellotape, a sign of a well used, well loved receipe book :o)
Essential for every Mum facing the weaning milestone!, 21 Oct 2008
I bought this book, along with the Gina Ford one, because everyone I know has it and so I figured they were on to something! Have to say I have been really impressed with the information in it and also the recipes. I've used them as the basis for weaning my daughter - initially the puree recipes are pretty basic and you wonder why you needed a book but now she's nearly 7 months, the recipes give great ideas for introducing protein and different foods. They also tell you about good combinations. The only thing I don't like is the timings of meals and bottles as Annabel seems to have an extra feed a day so I simply used Gina's timings and Annabel's recipes which worked for us. I felt quite daunted by the prospect of weaning, feeling like we'd just got the whole milk/breast/bottle thing sussed but like with all things baby, read a few books and then adapt to your needs & you'll be find. Happy pureeing!
Fabulous book for advice and recipes, 30 Sep 2008
I have recommended this book to everyone. It's full of good advice for different weaning stages. And I cook the 9months + recipes for my husband...he always says how nice they are and then I tell them that the meal was designed for a 12 month old!! Lovely food for babies, toddlers, and adults.
Location, location, location, 10 Sep 2008
This book does give lots of interesting ideas, but depending on your location, many of the ingredients might not be readily available, like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash and some fruits. There also seem to be a lot of fish recipes.
Is it coincidence, or has this book really made my life with kids better!?, 16 Oct 2008
I bought this book about three months ago after a particularly bad week with my boys (aged 2 and 4). A lot of tantrums, whining, shouting, crying (on all parts) plus the anxiety of starting school made me feel I really needed to change something. I had read an earlier book by the same author (Siblings without Rivalry) and liked the style so gave it a go.
The first few weeks were a difficult transition. Trying the new methods, yet in the back of mind doubting them, I kept reverting back to the usual methods (after all naughty steps and reward charts seem so popular these days). Again - a difficult week and I gave it another go.
After four weeks of effort on my part we finally started getting somewhere and slowly but surely their suggested behaviour and responses became more natural.Three months on, I can honestly say we all have a much better relationship. I still shout (which thankfully is `allowed' in this book) - but situations don't spiral out of control... I am angry about a situation, I suggest better options and we all carry on. I don't bombard my son with questions about school - `who did you play with', `did you eat lunch' and yet he chats much more readily. My two year old still has tantrums and a very determined personality; but even he has softened and seems to respond much better.
Fingers crossed it isn't coincidence or a phase and I have really have made things better!
Sanity Found - All Parents Should Read, 13 Sep 2008
I was looking for some serious guides on my children - this book put it all into perspective and gave me some wonderful guidelines - I've recommended it to loads of friends and some even finish the title before me and smile noting the help it provided. GET THIS BOOK TODAY!
We can't get enough , 18 Feb 2008
This book is excellent. Parents, who want lasting discipline, in the true sense of the word [teaching], look no further. As other reviewers have said, there is no quick fix. If that's what you are after, God help your kids!
As an author, I also found the techniques and suggestions easy to pick up and assimilate.
It is relevant for school, home and life in general.
We can't get enough of this kind of material.
Useful book and relevant but no masterpiece!, 20 Dec 2007
I am a mother of three boys aged 2, 4 and 5. Getting them to cooperate is sometimes such a challenge. And it is difficult to focus attention to three at a time so I often have the feeling that one will cry, no matter what I do or don't do. I bought this book because I was looking for ways to improve my communication with my elder boys (aged 4 and 5) who sometimes can seem so unreasonable and so defiant to me and their father. The book has helped me reacting differently and communicating comfort better to my children but I found it a touch too simplistic. I need not do my homework and see drawings to understand what this is all about. Examples are useful but I need not read ten very similar examples to get the message. It seemed to me that it was bit of a school text rather than a book aimed at grown up parents. Moreover, most examples focused on elder children (e.g. aged 8, 10 or older) contrary to what I expected, i.e. advice for communicating with toddlers and pre schoolers. In conclusion, I do recommend the book as a useful guide to improving communication with your children but it is certainly not the best book I have ever read on parenting.
My new bible, 29 Oct 2007
Really useful book.
I read it over and over again.
Excellent tips for keeping kids motivated and behaving well.
I have recommended this book to all my friends.
A look at things through the eyes of an economist., 08 Oct 2008
This book is a general interest book- and it certainly is interesting. The book, for anyone looking for an entertaining read, will like it. In a nutshell, the book takes a look at all sorts of things in society, from crack gangs to parenting, and then attempts to make sense of them by applying econonmic principles. According to the book, economics is really the study of incentives, and so using this kind of angle, the book comes up with answers to why things work the way they do.
A book that's hard to put down, I'm sure many readers will enjoy it. Also recommend The Sixty-Second Motivator for a more simplistic explanation of what motivates people and gives them incentives to do what they do.
Ho hum not very interesting application of numerical data to sociology, 26 Aug 2008
I really can't see why this book attracted much interest. It's a collection of not very interesting observations, some obvious (children of rich parents do better than children of poor parents, estate agents are more interested in their commissions than in getting you the best price for your house), others tendentious (the crime statistics prove that more adding police reduces crime, IQ is hereditary). By and large the authors' opinions and observations are middle-of-road conservative, with some liberalism on race issues. Very little of this is about economics, just the application of some minute degree of numerical rigour to social issues. I'd skip it if I were you.
Fun & interesting, 17 Aug 2008
This is a really interesting romp through some fairly random questions like "How is the KKK like a group of estate agents". The answers to the questions that drive this book are well discussed and backed up with research. Logical thought processes which bring to light some interesting answers. I particularly liked the discussion about reduction in crime rates being related to abortion policy (rather than policing or improved government crime prevention policies).
I'd agree with other reviewers in that it was a bit light on content...I got to the end and wanted more, but worth a read.
If you only read one book about economics, make sure this is the one, 13 Aug 2008
One could maybe argue that this isn't an economics book at all but instead a collection of connected essays drawing on concepts from economics and statistics to get the point across.
I find the style of writing very easy to get on with, and the book as a whole very easy to read. In many ways I wish this book had been written before I studies economics all those years ago as it would have been a good introduction to some concepts from the world of economics presented in a way which means that anyone can enjoy this book.
Many other reviews on here have already mentioned a lot of the good points about this book so I won't go on and repeat it all here. All that's left for me to say is ... go for it, give this book a go.
Fun, informative read, 16 Jun 2008
I am 23, studying Physics with strong interest in finance/market and investments. I found this book very interesting and fun as well.
English is not my mother tongue, but this book is so well written that didn't give me any trouble.
Totally recommended
Can serve the whole family, 22 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my son's first solid food and I wasn't dissapointed. Although you probably don't need a recipe to make an apple pure, once you're past the first stage, it's getting more interesting. I cooked my son many meals from that book and served them (not mashed) to his Daddy too - they both loved them! Gives you ideas how to combine flavours and you can get surprised.
Presentation is nice and although I owe some other cook books for children - this one is by far my favourite one.
Please consider the alternative way to wean..., 12 Nov 2008
There is a great new book for parents who like to consider the options and chose the best way for their baby and their family: Baby-led Weaning: Helping Your Baby to Love Good Food (Rapley & Murkett).
Purees are unnecessary for babies of 6 months and over, who are developmentally capable of starting on suitable finger food. Free your baby from the boredom of purees and enable your baby to start with a healthy and happy relationship with real food!
Essential feeding for your little one, 25 Oct 2008
I bought this book before I had my daughter but didn't actually bother to pick it up until she was 4 months old. I haven't put it down since. If someone had aked me how to make chicken stock from stratch this time last year I would have laughed at them.
This book gives simple and delicious recipes for your babies to enjoy. They are a little time taking at first (if you are not a 'cooky' person) but once you get the hang of it there's no holding you back. The recipes are explained clearly and don't require a mountain of ingredients.
There is nothing in this book my daughter has wolfed down!
Essential reading for any new parent.
A must have!, 18 Oct 2008
Annabel Karmel's New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner
Annabel Karmel is like the Nigella of the weaning world lol. Her recipes are unbelievably easy to follow, even for someone like me who is not by any means an accomplished cook! Our baby now eats better than we do, but I'm going to try and adapt some of the recipes to suit all of the family.
One thing I will say though, I bought this at the same time as buying Annabel's "New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner" - I've found that a lot of the recipes are similar, if not the same, and having both books isn't necessary.
Useful but not enough variety!, 15 Oct 2008
I really liked the look of this book and I had already used the Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner by Annabel Karmel, so I bought this expecting it to build on the older edition and have something new to offer for the eary stages of weaning.
Sadly, I dont think it met expectations. Lots of the recipes were duplicated from the other book and the information in the introductions to each chapter also seemed like an abridged version of the other book.
I appreciate there are only so many vegetable and fruit purees that you can use to wean your baby but I would still have expected this book to have more to offer that its older counterpart.
My advice would be don't bother with it if you have the other one, and if you are in two minds which to get, at least the other one will see you through toddler-dom as well.
Happy Pureeing!
BLW Just go for it...this book will give you your confidence, 02 Dec 2008
We have been following the BLW principles before this book came to press but I eagerly awaited its publishing and bought it the first week. It did not dissappoint. I read the book cover to cover in 24 hours it was such an interesting and easy read so even if you are not thinking of BLW I would suggest reading it.
It puts all of the current and recent weaning practices (most of which can be happily ignored) into context so that you can explain to parents, health visitors, random advice wishers that you know what you are doing and that actually it is a healthy and sensible and more than safe approach.
I loved the pictures in the book as they made me smile that we are not the only ones going down this route and it gave me confidence to try some of the not so obviously baby friendly meals like Spag bol and stew.
The brilliant thing about BLW is that it can be so easy and fun. All you really need is a shower curtain or wipe clean floor and some nutritious food! No food processers, no fancy little pots or insulated this and that and also no worries that you have missed meal time because meal time is just when you eat.
Ok it is not rocky science and mums have been weaning like this for years...at least mums of very lucky children have , but I am so glad there is a book to give those of us who just need a little convincing we are right or need some explanations to justify our gut feel.
Read this and help your child and family enjoy their food.
Just the best and easiest way for your baby to eat, 29 Nov 2008
Forget hours of pureeing and mashing and cooking veg and fruit. This book gave me confidence to let my little one just get on with it, and eat proper food. A month in and she's eaten Sunday roasts, Chinese Food, Spicy food, in fact she's tried everything, and she's the one in control of what goes in her mout, so no food battles.
Expect some odd looks from people who think your baby is going to choke as she begins to eat an apple (to date my baby has not). But I feel so proud when we sit down for a family meal and she tucks in with gusto to anything and everything. By not spoon feeding it means you get time to eat to with your baby to so it actually gives you more time.
Thankyou Gill Rapley!!
Read but dont buy, 24 Nov 2008
Having recently started feeding my daughter solid food, I was very interested in the idea of baby led weaning, taking it to mean that the baby was more in control of the process, and making suitable(salt free low allergen)foods that she could hold herself or I could initially hold for her.
I was very disappointed in the book. It just seemed to say 'put your own food down in front of them and leave them to it. Dont worry if they dont eat anything til they're 8 or 9 months, thats perfectly normal'. I dont feel that thats baby led, its still an adult agenda, and also coincides with the time that most babyfood books expect babies to be eating finger food.
My daughter has munched happily on food held to her mouth that was too soft for her to hold and eat easily, and she wouldnt have had that opportunity if Id followed this book.There is stuff in here that's worth reading and it is reassuring, but if you'd like to see tips and recipes for hand held food this isnt the book for you, have found some great blogs though so look elsewhere!
Very useful and informative guide to weaning, 23 Nov 2008
This is a very useful and well written book that simply suggests putting your baby in the drivers seat when it comes to eating. It makes perfect sense and really clarifies the weaning process.
As a parent, I really apprehensive about weaning - having to make loads of stuff and blend special things in advance - then shovelling food into my baby, when he was so keen to pick up things and chew them himself.
This book explains that it's OK to allow your baby to eat what you're eating. There aren't any recipes because you don't need them; you just make sure you're eating healthily and away you go. I'm one week in and it's going really well so far!
I'd recommend this book to any parent - it really is easy to wean your baby.
BRILLIANT, BRILLIANT BRILLIANT!!!!, 20 Nov 2008
A must for all parents. BLW is fun and messy but above all has made me realise just how amazing babies really are. My little one is just 6 monts and after 3 weeks of puree, spoons and neither of us really enjoying ourselves it was time to put the blender, ice cube trays etc away!! Mealtimes are now so easy my baby loves exploring food, breadsticks and humus are a real winner. This book gave me the confidence I needed to trust in the decisions my little one makes, we both enjoy eating together... the same food!
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Baby weaning Bible!, 22 Nov 2008
We simply refer to this book as 'The Food Bible'. I have used it constantly since starting to wean my daughter. She is now over one and I'm still getting my money's worth out of it. Some of the recipes have become family favourites! Simple, practical recipes which are tasty, what more could you ask. I found I picked about 5 or 6 from each age range and kept cooking batches, adapting to suit what i had in the cupboard, and to my daughters changing tastes. Good practical advice and a great starting point for weaning and cooking for a family.
learn to love cooking!, 06 Nov 2008
I've never been one for cooking, and I was never taught how to cook either.
This book has been great for learning how to enjoy cooking, and both my son and I have really benefited from it.
The recipes are simple, and I still dip into the book now, even though my son's older, for inspiration. The pages are covered in food splashes and half of them are repaired with sellotape, a sign of a well used, well loved receipe book :o)
Essential for every Mum facing the weaning milestone!, 21 Oct 2008
I bought this book, along with the Gina Ford one, because everyone I know has it and so I figured they were on to something! Have to say I have been really impressed with the information in it and also the recipes. I've used them as the basis for weaning my daughter - initially the puree recipes are pretty basic and you wonder why you needed a book but now she's nearly 7 months, the recipes give great ideas for introducing protein and different foods. They also tell you about good combinations. The only thing I don't like is the timings of meals and bottles as Annabel seems to have an extra feed a day so I simply used Gina's timings and Annabel's recipes which worked for us. I felt quite daunted by the prospect of weaning, feeling like we'd just got the whole milk/breast/bottle thing sussed but like with all things baby, read a few books and then adapt to your needs & you'll be find. Happy pureeing!
Fabulous book for advice and recipes, 30 Sep 2008
I have recommended this book to everyone. It's full of good advice for different weaning stages. And I cook the 9months + recipes for my husband...he always says how nice they are and then I tell them that the meal was designed for a 12 month old!! Lovely food for babies, toddlers, and adults.
Location, location, location, 10 Sep 2008
This book does give lots of interesting ideas, but depending on your location, many of the ingredients might not be readily available, like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash and some fruits. There also seem to be a lot of fish recipes.
Is it coincidence, or has this book really made my life with kids better!?, 16 Oct 2008
I bought this book about three months ago after a particularly bad week with my boys (aged 2 and 4). A lot of tantrums, whining, shouting, crying (on all parts) plus the anxiety of starting school made me feel I really needed to change something. I had read an earlier book by the same author (Siblings without Rivalry) and liked the style so gave it a go.
The first few weeks were a difficult transition. Trying the new methods, yet in the back of mind doubting them, I kept reverting back to the usual methods (after all naughty steps and reward charts seem so popular these days). Again - a difficult week and I gave it another go.
After four weeks of effort on my part we finally started getting somewhere and slowly but surely their suggested behaviour and responses became more natural.Three months on, I can honestly say we all have a much better relationship. I still shout (which thankfully is `allowed' in this book) - but situations don't spiral out of control... I am angry about a situation, I suggest better options and we all carry on. I don't bombard my son with questions about school - `who did you play with', `did you eat lunch' and yet he chats much more readily. My two year old still has tantrums and a very determined personality; but even he has softened and seems to respond much better.
Fingers crossed it isn't coincidence or a phase and I have really have made things better!
Sanity Found - All Parents Should Read, 13 Sep 2008
I was looking for some serious guides on my children - this book put it all into perspective and gave me some wonderful guidelines - I've recommended it to loads of friends and some even finish the title before me and smile noting the help it provided. GET THIS BOOK TODAY!
We can't get enough , 18 Feb 2008
This book is excellent. Parents, who want lasting discipline, in the true sense of the word [teaching], look no further. As other reviewers have said, there is no quick fix. If that's what you are after, God help your kids!
As an author, I also found the techniques and suggestions easy to pick up and assimilate.
It is relevant for school, home and life in general.
We can't get enough of this kind of material.
Useful book and relevant but no masterpiece!, 20 Dec 2007
I am a mother of three boys aged 2, 4 and 5. Getting them to cooperate is sometimes such a challenge. And it is difficult to focus attention to three at a time so I often have the feeling that one will cry, no matter what I do or don't do. I bought this book because I was looking for ways to improve my communication with my elder boys (aged 4 and 5) who sometimes can seem so unreasonable and so defiant to me and their father. The book has helped me reacting differently and communicating comfort better to my children but I found it a touch too simplistic. I need not do my homework and see drawings to understand what this is all about. Examples are useful but I need not read ten very similar examples to get the message. It seemed to me that it was bit of a school text rather than a book aimed at grown up parents. Moreover, most examples focused on elder children (e.g. aged 8, 10 or older) contrary to what I expected, i.e. advice for communicating with toddlers and pre schoolers. In conclusion, I do recommend the book as a useful guide to improving communication with your children but it is certainly not the best book I have ever read on parenting.
My new bible, 29 Oct 2007
Really useful book.
I read it over and over again.
Excellent tips for keeping kids motivated and behaving well.
I have recommended this book to all my friends.
A look at things through the eyes of an economist., 08 Oct 2008
This book is a general interest book- and it certainly is interesting. The book, for anyone looking for an entertaining read, will like it. In a nutshell, the book takes a look at all sorts of things in society, from crack gangs to parenting, and then attempts to make sense of them by applying econonmic principles. According to the book, economics is really the study of incentives, and so using this kind of angle, the book comes up with answers to why things work the way they do.
A book that's hard to put down, I'm sure many readers will enjoy it. Also recommend The Sixty-Second Motivator for a more simplistic explanation of what motivates people and gives them incentives to do what they do.
Ho hum not very interesting application of numerical data to sociology, 26 Aug 2008
I really can't see why this book attracted much interest. It's a collection of not very interesting observations, some obvious (children of rich parents do better than children of poor parents, estate agents are more interested in their commissions than in getting you the best price for your house), others tendentious (the crime statistics prove that more adding police reduces crime, IQ is hereditary). By and large the authors' opinions and observations are middle-of-road conservative, with some liberalism on race issues. Very little of this is about economics, just the application of some minute degree of numerical rigour to social issues. I'd skip it if I were you.
Fun & interesting, 17 Aug 2008
This is a really interesting romp through some fairly random questions like "How is the KKK like a group of estate agents". The answers to the questions that drive this book are well discussed and backed up with research. Logical thought processes which bring to light some interesting answers. I particularly liked the discussion about reduction in crime rates being related to abortion policy (rather than policing or improved government crime prevention policies).
I'd agree with other reviewers in that it was a bit light on content...I got to the end and wanted more, but worth a read.
If you only read one book about economics, make sure this is the one, 13 Aug 2008
One could maybe argue that this isn't an economics book at all but instead a collection of connected essays drawing on concepts from economics and statistics to get the point across.
I find the style of writing very easy to get on with, and the book as a whole very easy to read. In many ways I wish this book had been written before I studies economics all those years ago as it would have been a good introduction to some concepts from the world of economics presented in a way which means that anyone can enjoy this book.
Many other reviews on here have already mentioned a lot of the good points about this book so I won't go on and repeat it all here. All that's left for me to say is ... go for it, give this book a go.
Fun, informative read, 16 Jun 2008
I am 23, studying Physics with strong interest in finance/market and investments. I found this book very interesting and fun as well.
English is not my mother tongue, but this book is so well written that didn't give me any trouble.
Totally recommended
Can serve the whole family, 22 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my son's first solid food and I wasn't dissapointed. Although you probably don't need a recipe to make an apple pure, once you're past the first stage, it's getting more interesting. I cooked my son many meals from that book and served them (not mashed) to his Daddy too - they both loved them! Gives you ideas how to combine flavours and you can get surprised.
Presentation is nice and although I owe some other cook books for children - this one is by far my favourite one.
Please consider the alternative way to wean..., 12 Nov 2008
There is a great new book for parents who like to consider the options and chose the best way for their baby and their family: Baby-led Weaning: Helping Your Baby to Love Good Food (Rapley & Murkett).
Purees are unnecessary for babies of 6 months and over, who are developmentally capable of starting on suitable finger food. Free your baby from the boredom of purees and enable your baby to start with a healthy and happy relationship with real food!
Essential feeding for your little one, 25 Oct 2008
I bought this book before I had my daughter but didn't actually bother to pick it up until she was 4 months old. I haven't put it down since. If someone had aked me how to make chicken stock from stratch this time last year I would have laughed at them.
This book gives simple and delicious recipes for your babies to enjoy. They are a little time taking at first (if you are not a 'cooky' person) but once you get the hang of it there's no holding you back. The recipes are explained clearly and don't require a mountain of ingredients.
There is nothing in this book my daughter has wolfed down!
Essential reading for any new parent.
A must have!, 18 Oct 2008
Annabel Karmel's New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner
Annabel Karmel is like the Nigella of the weaning world lol. Her recipes are unbelievably easy to follow, even for someone like me who is not by any means an accomplished cook! Our baby now eats better than we do, but I'm going to try and adapt some of the recipes to suit all of the family.
One thing I will say though, I bought this at the same time as buying Annabel's "New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner" - I've found that a lot of the recipes are similar, if not the same, and having both books isn't necessary.
Useful but not enough variety!, 15 Oct 2008
I really liked the look of this book and I had already used the Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner by Annabel Karmel, so I bought this expecting it to build on the older edition and have something new to offer for the eary stages of weaning.
Sadly, I dont think it met expectations. Lots of the recipes were duplicated from the other book and the information in the introductions to each chapter also seemed like an abridged version of the other book.
I appreciate there are only so many vegetable and fruit purees that you can use to wean your baby but I would still have expected this book to have more to offer that its older counterpart.
My advice would be don't bother with it if you have the other one, and if you are in two minds which to get, at least the other one will see you through toddler-dom as well.
Happy Pureeing!
BLW Just go for it...this book will give you your confidence, 02 Dec 2008
We have been following the BLW principles before this book came to press but I eagerly awaited its publishing and bought it the first week. It did not dissappoint. I read the book cover to cover in 24 hours it was such an interesting and easy read so even if you are not thinking of BLW I would suggest reading it.
It puts all of the current and recent weaning practices (most of which can be happily ignored) into context so that you can explain to parents, health visitors, random advice wishers that you know what you are doing and that actually it is a healthy and sensible and more than safe approach.
I loved the pictures in the book as they made me smile that we are not the only ones going down this route and it gave me confidence to try some of the not so obviously baby friendly meals like Spag bol and stew.
The brilliant thing about BLW is that it can be so easy and fun. All you really need is a shower curtain or wipe clean floor and some nutritious food! No food processers, no fancy little pots or insulated this and that and also no worries that you have missed meal time because meal time is just when you eat.
Ok it is not rocky science and mums have been weaning like this for years...at least mums of very lucky children have , but I am so glad there is a book to give those of us who just need a little convincing we are right or need some explanations to justify our gut feel.
Read this and help your child and family enjoy their food.
Just the best and easiest way for your baby to eat, 29 Nov 2008
Forget hours of pureeing and mashing and cooking veg and fruit. This book gave me confidence to let my little one just get on with it, and eat proper food. A month in and she's eaten Sunday roasts, Chinese Food, Spicy food, in fact she's tried everything, and she's the one in control of what goes in her mout, so no food battles.
Expect some odd looks from people who think your baby is going to choke as she begins to eat an apple (to date my baby has not). But I feel so proud when we sit down for a family meal and she tucks in with gusto to anything and everything. By not spoon feeding it means you get time to eat to with your baby to so it actually gives you more time.
Thankyou Gill Rapley!!
Read but dont buy, 24 Nov 2008
Having recently started feeding my daughter solid food, I was very interested in the idea of baby led weaning, taking it to mean that the baby was more in control of the process, and making suitable(salt free low allergen)foods that she could hold herself or I could initially hold for her.
I was very disappointed in the book. It just seemed to say 'put your own food down in front of them and leave them to it. Dont worry if they dont eat anything til they're 8 or 9 months, thats perfectly normal'. I dont feel that thats baby led, its still an adult agenda, and also coincides with the time that most babyfood books expect babies to be eating finger food.
My daughter has munched happily on food held to her mouth that was too soft for her to hold and eat easily, and she wouldnt have had that opportunity if Id followed this book.There is stuff in here that's worth reading and it is reassuring, but if you'd like to see tips and recipes for hand held food this isnt the book for you, have found some great blogs though so look elsewhere!
Very useful and informative guide to weaning, 23 Nov 2008
This is a very useful and well written book that simply suggests putting your baby in the drivers seat when it comes to eating. It makes perfect sense and really clarifies the weaning process.
As a parent, I really apprehensive about weaning - having to make loads of stuff and blend special things in advance - then shovelling food into my baby, when he was so keen to pick up things and chew them himself.
This book explains that it's OK to allow your baby to eat what you're eating. There aren't any recipes because you don't need them; you just make sure you're eating healthily and away you go. I'm one week in and it's going really well so far!
I'd recommend this book to any parent - it really is easy to wean your baby.
BRILLIANT, BRILLIANT BRILLIANT!!!!, 20 Nov 2008
A must for all parents. BLW is fun and messy but above all has made me realise just how amazing babies really are. My little one is just 6 monts and after 3 weeks of puree, spoons and neither of us really enjoying ourselves it was time to put the blender, ice cube trays etc away!! Mealtimes are now so easy my baby loves exploring food, breadsticks and humus are a real winner. This book gave me the confidence I needed to trust in the decisions my little one makes, we both enjoy eating together... the same food!
makes you question your ability as a new mum!, 10 Nov 2008
I got this book after reading Amazon reviews and at a time when I was feeling very low, after I'd just given birth to my baby girl. This book made me feel worse! Tracy Hogg implies that if you don't get positive results after following her advice, then you are probably guilty of 'accidental parenting. This is NOT the message you want to hear when you are suffering from Post Natal Depression and struggling with a baby who doesn't appear to 'fit in' with any of her clever little 'categories'. In the end I took my fiance and families' advice and followed my own instincts..which proved to be the best course of action after all.
In summary, don't beat yourself up like I did when it doesn't all magically work Miss Hogg's way. Just enjoy the adventure of being a new Mum (even if it is a scary one at times!) and do it your way!
A must buy for new parents, 28 Jul 2008
This book was the BEST purchase we made. Even though we read the whole book, we didn't follow it like a manual, we picked the parts we needed and/or agreed with and used those. Our baby was (and still is) peacefully sleeping through the night from 3 1/2 months on and following a routine - NOT a timetable. As parents we are calm, coping and know exactly what our baby wants and needs thanks to the advice in this book. All in all we are are very contented household! We were TOTALLY against controlled crying and this book (along with our instincts)helped us to get our baby sleeping without EVER leaving her to cry. Our siblings have now all bought this book after seeing how well it worked for us while they were still struggling with their babies of similar ages.
Saving sanity with structure but not for new borns!, 24 Jul 2008
Ok Ok so there ARE flaws in this book and i'm not about to say that her tone and habit of referring to her readers as "duckie" and "luv" isn't annoying but i work in child psychiatry/psychology and it taught me a few new tricks!
I started off instinctively as a mother and went with attachment parenting...which i whole heartedly believe is the best thing for a new born baby. I co-slept, slinged and demand fed.
When a baby is new to the world trying to instill structure and seperation on a teenie tiny person who actually doesn't know or comprehend that they are seperate from the world around them is just cruel and potentially damaging on a psychological level...so i really wouldn't recommend this book for neonates. However, after 8 weeks or so (whenever YOU feel your baby might be ready) then i think this book is fantastic. Once babies begin to interact and take in the world around them, structure is a really positive thing, helping them to feel safe and contained.
I started my first with a slightly adapted baby whisperer routine after a few months and within a few nights my cherub was sleeping through the night and our whole family was settled into happy, predictable bliss.
Noone should take ANY book as written in stone or allow someones opinion (who has never even met your child) to overwrite your own maternal/paternal instintcs....for crying out loud...surely that's common sense????...so if you can read a book OBJECTIVELY and interpret what would be helpful for your family then you will find this book an absolute godsend.
This book recommends teaching your child how to self soothe, which again, on a psychological level, is really positive. Tracey Hogg advocates dummies, but if you or your baby doesn't use dummies then there are plenty of other ways to self soothe. My little girl sucks her thumb and i have never introduced a dummy but she is still able to self soothe. She also advocates you helping your baby learn how to fall asleep independently, (as you would help them learn so many other skills) but she doesn't advocate "crying it out". Which is great for most parents...after all who can bear hearing their beloved little bub crying till they either fall asleep from exhaution of just give up because they learn that no one comes when they cry?
I found it actually increased my connectedness, intuition and confidence with my little 'un.
However, a word of warning...Tracey Hogg uses a silly phrase of "accidental parenting" a lot during the book...which could feel quite critical to the more sensitive among us, or to those that are inclined to take guide books literally. What she means by "accidental parenting" is really just that she's agrees with the psychological theories on conditioning and that babies get into the habits their parents give them (DUH!! thanks for pointing out the obvious there Tracey)....so if you feed your baby to sleep, they will come to expect it...until you condition them into another method....which is what Tracey's book is all about...conditioning your child into a routine, where both you and your babies lives are structured and predictable. The way she goes about explaining it, isn't ideal at times but her basic idea is great. If you are a new parent and have just been through those first few months of crazy, sleep deprived cookoo land with a new born then this book is straightforward, easy to read and offers some sensible advise on structure.....but please please please take this and any other book with a pinch of salt...no one can know you own child like their own parent!!!!!
Tracey Hogg hasn't solved my problems, 27 Apr 2008
After the recent birth of my first child, I bought this book in the hope that it might give me a better idea of how to develop a routine for my son, as well as giving me some confidence in my ability to be a good parent. Unfortunately, although some of the things Tracey Hogg talks about in this book make sense, I could not see how I could make her routines work for me and my son. For example, Tracey aserts that babies should not feed any more frequently than 3 hourly. However, I am breast feeding my son and in the early weeks he sometimes wanted to feed every hour. Tracey suggests that in this situation your baby is either not getting enough milk, or is comfort sucking (and should therefore be given a dummy). I knew my son was getting enough milk as he was putting on weight very well, but despite trying to give him a dummy on several occasions he just would not take it. Tracey states that if your baby will not take a dummy, then you are giving up too easily and should keep trying. However, the whole premise of this book is that the parent needs to learn to listen to their child, and my son was clearly telling me that he did not want a dummy!
The author states that if her methods do not work for you, then you are at fault and either you are just not doing it right, or not trying hard enough. This approach left me feeling inadequate as a mother, at a time when I needed to feel understood and supported as a new parent. My negative feelings about this book are compounded by Tracey Hogg's insistence on calling the reader 'duckie' and 'luv' throughout, which I found incredibly patronising.
I have since realised that being a good enough parent means trusting your instincts and dipping in and out of various parenting texts, using the bits that work for you, and ignoring the bits that don't.
Oh, and my son is now able to go for 3 hours between feeds without me having to shove a dummy in his mouth!
Brilliant!, 20 Apr 2008
This book is the best thing I ever bought I think. Especially for first time parents it is such a help. We only found it when our daughter was already 3 months old, if we had had it from the beginning it would have saved us a lot of worrying and sleepless nights! However, once we got it, we had her sleeping 11 to 12 hours through the night in just 2 weeks. From day 1 our life became a lot easier and more structured. I highly recommend this, even for parents with older babies who have sleeping or eating issues.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Baby weaning Bible!, 22 Nov 2008
We simply refer to this book as 'The Food Bible'. I have used it constantly since starting to wean my daughter. She is now over one and I'm still getting my money's worth out of it. Some of the recipes have become family favourites! Simple, practical recipes which are tasty, what more could you ask. I found I picked about 5 or 6 from each age range and kept cooking batches, adapting to suit what i had in the cupboard, and to my daughters changing tastes. Good practical advice and a great starting point for weaning and cooking for a family.
learn to love cooking!, 06 Nov 2008
I've never been one for cooking, and I was never taught how to cook either.
This book has been great for learning how to enjoy cooking, and both my son and I have really benefited from it.
The recipes are simple, and I still dip into the book now, even though my son's older, for inspiration. The pages are covered in food splashes and half of them are repaired with sellotape, a sign of a well used, well loved receipe book :o)
Essential for every Mum facing the weaning milestone!, 21 Oct 2008
I bought this book, along with the Gina Ford one, because everyone I know has it and so I figured they were on to something! Have to say I have been really impressed with the information in it and also the recipes. I've used them as the basis for weaning my daughter - initially the puree recipes are pretty basic and you wonder why you needed a book but now she's nearly 7 months, the recipes give great ideas for introducing protein and different foods. They also tell you about good combinations. The only thing I don't like is the timings of meals and bottles as Annabel seems to have an extra feed a day so I simply used Gina's timings and Annabel's recipes which worked for us. I felt quite daunted by the prospect of weaning, feeling like we'd just got the whole milk/breast/bottle thing sussed but like with all things baby, read a few books and then adapt to your needs & you'll be find. Happy pureeing!
Fabulous book for advice and recipes, 30 Sep 2008
I have recommended this book to everyone. It's full of good advice for different weaning stages. And I cook the 9months + recipes for my husband...he always says how nice they are and then I tell them that the meal was designed for a 12 month old!! Lovely food for babies, toddlers, and adults.
Location, location, location, 10 Sep 2008
This book does give lots of interesting ideas, but depending on your location, many of the ingredients might not be readily available, like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash and some fruits. There also seem to be a lot of fish recipes.
Is it coincidence, or has this book really made my life with kids better!?, 16 Oct 2008
I bought this book about three months ago after a particularly bad week with my boys (aged 2 and 4). A lot of tantrums, whining, shouting, crying (on all parts) plus the anxiety of starting school made me feel I really needed to change something. I had read an earlier book by the same author (Siblings without Rivalry) and liked the style so gave it a go.
The first few weeks were a difficult transition. Trying the new methods, yet in the back of mind doubting them, I kept reverting back to the usual methods (after all naughty steps and reward charts seem so popular these days). Again - a difficult week and I gave it another go.
After four weeks of effort on my part we finally started getting somewhere and slowly but surely their suggested behaviour and responses became more natural.Three months on, I can honestly say we all have a much better relationship. I still shout (which thankfully is `allowed' in this book) - but situations don't spiral out of control... I am angry about a situation, I suggest better options and we all carry on. I don't bombard my son with questions about school - `who did you play with', `did you eat lunch' and yet he chats much more readily. My two year old still has tantrums and a very determined personality; but even he has softened and seems to respond much better.
Fingers crossed it isn't coincidence or a phase and I have really have made things better!
Sanity Found - All Parents Should Read, 13 Sep 2008
I was looking for some serious guides on my children - this book put it all into perspective and gave me some wonderful guidelines - I've recommended it to loads of friends and some even finish the title before me and smile noting the help it provided. GET THIS BOOK TODAY!
We can't get enough , 18 Feb 2008
This book is excellent. Parents, who want lasting discipline, in the true sense of the word [teaching], look no further. As other reviewers have said, there is no quick fix. If that's what you are after, God help your kids!
As an author, I also found the techniques and suggestions easy to pick up and assimilate.
It is relevant for school, home and life in general.
We can't get enough of this kind of material.
Useful book and relevant but no masterpiece!, 20 Dec 2007
I am a mother of three boys aged 2, 4 and 5. Getting them to cooperate is sometimes such a challenge. And it is difficult to focus attention to three at a time so I often have the feeling that one will cry, no matter what I do or don't do. I bought this book because I was looking for ways to improve my communication with my elder boys (aged 4 and 5) who sometimes can seem so unreasonable and so defiant to me and their father. The book has helped me reacting differently and communicating comfort better to my children but I found it a touch too simplistic. I need not do my homework and see drawings to understand what this is all about. Examples are useful but I need not read ten very similar examples to get the message. It seemed to me that it was bit of a school text rather than a book aimed at grown up parents. Moreover, most examples focused on elder children (e.g. aged 8, 10 or older) contrary to what I expected, i.e. advice for communicating with toddlers and pre schoolers. In conclusion, I do recommend the book as a useful guide to improving communication with your children but it is certainly not the best book I have ever read on parenting.
My new bible, 29 Oct 2007
Really useful book.
I read it over and over again.
Excellent tips for keeping kids motivated and behaving well.
I have recommended this book to all my friends.
A look at things through the eyes of an economist., 08 Oct 2008
This book is a general interest book- and it certainly is interesting. The book, for anyone looking for an entertaining read, will like it. In a nutshell, the book takes a look at all sorts of things in society, from crack gangs to parenting, and then attempts to make sense of them by applying econonmic principles. According to the book, economics is really the study of incentives, and so using this kind of angle, the book comes up with answers to why things work the way they do.
A book that's hard to put down, I'm sure many readers will enjoy it. Also recommend The Sixty-Second Motivator for a more simplistic explanation of what motivates people and gives them incentives to do what they do.
Ho hum not very interesting application of numerical data to sociology, 26 Aug 2008
I really can't see why this book attracted much interest. It's a collection of not very interesting observations, some obvious (children of rich parents do better than children of poor parents, estate agents are more interested in their commissions than in getting you the best price for your house), others tendentious (the crime statistics prove that more adding police reduces crime, IQ is hereditary). By and large the authors' opinions and observations are middle-of-road conservative, with some liberalism on race issues. Very little of this is about economics, just the application of some minute degree of numerical rigour to social issues. I'd skip it if I were you.
Fun & interesting, 17 Aug 2008
This is a really interesting romp through some fairly random questions like "How is the KKK like a group of estate agents". The answers to the questions that drive this book are well discussed and backed up with research. Logical thought processes which bring to light some interesting answers. I particularly liked the discussion about reduction in crime rates being related to abortion policy (rather than policing or improved government crime prevention policies).
I'd agree with other reviewers in that it was a bit light on content...I got to the end and wanted more, but worth a read.
If you only read one book about economics, make sure this is the one, 13 Aug 2008
One could maybe argue that this isn't an economics book at all but instead a collection of connected essays drawing on concepts from economics and statistics to get the point across.
I find the style of writing very easy to get on with, and the book as a whole very easy to read. In many ways I wish this book had been written before I studies economics all those years ago as it would have been a good introduction to some concepts from the world of economics presented in a way which means that anyone can enjoy this book.
Many other reviews on here have already mentioned a lot of the good points about this book so I won't go on and repeat it all here. All that's left for me to say is ... go for it, give this book a go.
Fun, informative read, 16 Jun 2008
I am 23, studying Physics with strong interest in finance/market and investments. I found this book very interesting and fun as well.
English is not my mother tongue, but this book is so well written that didn't give me any trouble.
Totally recommended
Can serve the whole family, 22 Nov 2008
I bought this book for my son's first solid food and I wasn't dissapointed. Although you probably don't need a recipe to make an apple pure, once you're past the first stage, it's getting more interesting. I cooked my son many meals from that book and served them (not mashed) to his Daddy too - they both loved them! Gives you ideas how to combine flavours and you can get surprised.
Presentation is nice and although I owe some other cook books for children - this one is by far my favourite one.
Please consider the alternative way to wean..., 12 Nov 2008
There is a great new book for parents who like to consider the options and chose the best way for their baby and their family: Baby-led Weaning: Helping Your Baby to Love Good Food (Rapley & Murkett).
Purees are unnecessary for babies of 6 months and over, who are developmentally capable of starting on suitable finger food. Free your baby from the boredom of purees and enable your baby to start with a healthy and happy relationship with real food!
Essential feeding for your little one, 25 Oct 2008
I bought this book before I had my daughter but didn't actually bother to pick it up until she was 4 months old. I haven't put it down since. If someone had aked me how to make chicken stock from stratch this time last year I would have laughed at them.
This book gives simple and delicious recipes for your babies to enjoy. They are a little time taking at first (if you are not a 'cooky' person) but once you get the hang of it there's no holding you back. The recipes are explained clearly and don't require a mountain of ingredients.
There is nothing in this book my daughter has wolfed down!
Essential reading for any new parent.
A must have!, 18 Oct 2008
Annabel Karmel's New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner
Annabel Karmel is like the Nigella of the weaning world lol. Her recipes are unbelievably easy to follow, even for someone like me who is not by any means an accomplished cook! Our baby now eats better than we do, but I'm going to try and adapt some of the recipes to suit all of the family.
One thing I will say though, I bought this at the same time as buying Annabel's "New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner" - I've found that a lot of the recipes are similar, if not the same, and having both books isn't necessary.
Useful but not enough variety!, 15 Oct 2008
I really liked the look of this book and I had already used the Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner by Annabel Karmel, so I bought this expecting it to build on the older edition and have something new to offer for the eary stages of weaning.
Sadly, I dont think it met expectations. Lots of the recipes were duplicated from the other book and the information in the introductions to each chapter also seemed like an abridged version of the other book.
I appreciate there are only so many vegetable and fruit purees that you can use to wean your baby but I would still have expected this book to have more to offer that its older counterpart.
My advice would be don't bother with it if you have the other one, and if you are in two minds which to get, at least the other one will see you through toddler-dom as well.
Happy Pureeing!
BLW Just go for it...this book will give you your confidence, 02 Dec 2008
We have been following the BLW principles before this book came to press but I eagerly awaited its publishing and bought it the first week. It did not dissappoint. I read the book cover to cover in 24 hours it was such an interesting and easy read so even if you are not thinking of BLW I would suggest reading it.
It puts all of the current and recent weaning practices (most of which can be happily ignored) into context so that you can explain to parents, health visitors, random advice wishers that you know what you are doing and that actually it is a healthy and sensible and more than safe approach.
I loved the pictures in the book as they made me smile that we are not the only ones going down this route and it gave me confidence to try some of the not so obviously baby friendly meals like Spag bol and stew.
The brilliant thing about BLW is that it can be so easy and fun. All you really need is a shower curtain or wipe clean floor and some nutritious food! No food processers, no fancy little pots or insulated this and that and also no worries that you have missed meal time because meal time is just when you eat.
Ok it is not rocky science and mums have been weaning like this for years...at least mums of very lucky children have , but I am so glad there is a book to give those of us who just need a little convincing we are right or need some explanations to justify our gut feel.
Read this and help your child and family enjoy their food.
Just the best and easiest way for your baby to eat, 29 Nov 2008
Forget hours of pureeing and mashing and cooking veg and fruit. This book gave me confidence to let my little one just get on with it, and eat proper food. A month in and she's eaten Sunday roasts, Chinese Food, Spicy food, in fact she's tried everything, and she's the one in control of what goes in her mout, so no food battles.
Expect some odd looks from people who think your baby is going to choke as she begins to eat an apple (to date my baby has not). But I feel so proud when we sit down for a family meal and she tucks in with gusto to anything and everything. By not spoon feeding it means you get time to eat to with your baby to so it actually gives you more time.
Thankyou Gill Rapley!!
Read but dont buy, 24 Nov 2008
Having recently started feeding my daughter solid food, I was very interested in the idea of baby led weaning, taking it to mean that the baby was more in control of the process, and making suitable(salt free low allergen)foods that she could hold herself or I could initially hold for her.
I was very disappointed in the book. It just seemed to say 'put your own food down in front of them and leave them to it. Dont worry if they dont eat anything til they're 8 or 9 months, thats perfectly normal'. I dont feel that thats baby led, its still an adult agenda, and also coincides with the time that most babyfood books expect babies to be eating finger food.
My daughter has munched happily on food held to her mouth that was too soft for her to hold and eat easily, and she wouldnt have had that opportunity if Id followed this book.There is stuff in here that's worth reading and it is reassuring, but if you'd like to see tips and recipes for hand held food this isnt the book for you, have found some great blogs though so look elsewhere!
Very useful and informative guide to weaning, 23 Nov 2008
This is a very useful and well written book that simply suggests putting your baby in the drivers seat when it comes to eating. It makes perfect sense and really clarifies the weaning process.
As a parent, I really apprehensive about weaning - having to make loads of stuff and blend special things in advance - then shovelling food into my baby, when he was so keen to pick up things and chew them himself.
This book explains that it's OK to allow your baby to eat what you're eati | | |