Find the best advice with these top parenting books moms and dads should read. Learn how to discipline and become the best parent you can be!
I’m a researcher. When I run into an issue with my kids, I read as much as I can about it. I start online where a quick Google search will turn up some good articles. But some of the best advice I’ve heard and applied comes from reading top parenting books.
These aren’t “how-to” guides like when to start solids or how to change a diaper (though I have those as well!). These books discuss parenting. From how to best communicate with our kids to dealing with parent-child conflict.
Many of these will sound familiar from me talking about it so much. They’re intuitive. The actionable items make sense. And the goals for many of them are long-term change, not quick-fix tips.
Below are my top parenting books for new parents and veteran moms. These are my go-to books that form the foundation of how I view parenting.
Top parenting books moms and dads should read
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The Self-Driven Child by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson
Parenting with Love & Logic by Foster Cline and Jim Fay
The Gift of Failure by Jessica Lahey
How to Be a Happier Parent by KJ Dell’Antonia
I Know How She Does It by Laura Vanderkam
31 Days to Better Parenting by Nina Garcia
Becoming the Parent You Want to Be by Laura Davis
Taking Back Childhood by Nancy Carlsson-Paige
The Whole Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
No-Drama Discipline by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
The Bright Kid Challenge by Andrew Fuller
Brain Rules for Baby by John Medina
All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior
Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids by Laura Markahm
Mindset by Carol Dweck
The Smartest Kids in the World and How They Got There by Amanda Ripley
Overwhelmed: Work, Love and Play When No One Has the Time by Brigid Schulte
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Nurtureshock by Po Bronson
The Conscious Parent: Transforming Ourselves, Empowering Our Children by Dr. Shefali Tsabary
How to Raise an Adult: Break Free of the Overparenting Trap and Prepare Your Kid for Success by Julie Lythcott-Haims
Want to learn more about discussing emotions with your child (plus other parenting tips you can apply right away)? Join my newsletter and download the bonus chapter of Parenting with Purpose at no cost to you:
Get more tips:
- Communicate Effectively with Kids by Changing Just a Few Words
- 12 Ways You’re Already Practicing Montessori Parenting Without Even Realizing It
- 7 Reasons You’re Doing Fine as a Mom
- Top 7 Ways to Make Parenting Toddlers Easier
- 8 Remarkable Parenting Goals Every Mom Should Have
Your turn: What are your top parenting books? What problems are you looking to solve with parenting books?
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Rea says
August 22, 2015 at 2:45 amExcited for your book Nina!! ♥ Most of the parenting tips I read are from the web so getting a parenting book is something I’m looking forward to.
Nina says
August 22, 2015 at 8:43 pmAw thanks so much Rea 🙂
Charlee @ Humble in a Heartbeat says
August 24, 2015 at 7:10 amI figured you probably read a lot of parenting books. I will admit that I have read 1 1/4 parenting books so far. I am ecstatic to read yours!
Nina says
August 24, 2015 at 8:07 pmThanks so much for the support, Charlee!
Steph says
August 24, 2015 at 10:27 amCongratulations Nina; I’m so excited for you!
Nina says
August 24, 2015 at 8:11 pmThanks so much Steph 🙂 I appreciate it!
Tamara says
August 24, 2015 at 10:28 amParenting With Purpose is first on my list, but you know that!
I have read some pretty great parenting books in the last few years – before that, they were never my thing. Now I know that the right one is.
Nina says
August 24, 2015 at 8:12 pmThanks my dear! There are definitely a slew of books out there! I guess that’s a good thing; it means people are interested in parenting.
lisacng @ expandng.com says
August 24, 2015 at 1:57 pmCONGRATS on the book! What a HUGE accomplishment! I should read these other books too :).
Nina says
August 24, 2015 at 8:18 pmThanks so much Lisa! Oh you’d love them. They might even make for a great book club selection 😉
Melissa says
August 26, 2015 at 12:40 pmWow awesome! Congratulations on writing a book. I can’t wait to read it. As for now, I think I should read the No Drama Discipline.
Nina says
August 26, 2015 at 9:48 pmNo-Drama Discipline is awesome, Melissa. I learned so much from that book. And thanks for your support—I really appreciate it 🙂
Tarana Khan says
August 26, 2015 at 2:22 pmInterestingly, I’ve never read a parenting book, but do a lot of research online. You’ve got my attention with some of these books, though. I’m especially a fan of Dr. Markham. And congratulations on your book, that’s exciting news!
Nina says
August 26, 2015 at 9:52 pmI’m all about online research too Tarana! But then I keep seeing the same books popping up so I end up borrowing them as well. Dr. Markham’s book was a huge eye-opener for me and I learned so much from her book. And thanks for your support with my book 🙂
Leslie says
August 31, 2015 at 3:39 amLoved reading Nurture Shock, and can’t wait to read your book. Congratulations Nina!
Nina says
August 31, 2015 at 7:46 pmWasn’t it so good, Leslie? That was one of the earlier ones I read. Thanks so much for your support 🙂
Seana Turner says
December 7, 2015 at 11:56 amI liked Parenting With Love and Logic… great explanation of natural consequences.
Nina says
December 7, 2015 at 9:17 pmAwesome! Thanks for the book recommendation. I’m adding it to the list.