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
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, which means I will earn a commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase.
Bringing Up Bébé: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting by Pamela Druckerman
Parenting with Love & Logic by Foster Cline and Jim Fay
I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women Make the Most of Their Time by Laura Vanderkam
31 Days to Better Parenting by Nina Garcia
Brain Rules for Baby: How to Raise a Smart and Happy Child from Zero to Five by John Medina
All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenthood by Jennifer Senior
Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting by Laura Markahm
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success 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
Nurtureshock: New Thinking About Children by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman
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
Get more tips:
- 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
- Top 16 Books for Working Moms
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:
Excited 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.
Aw thanks so much Rea 🙂
I 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!
Thanks so much for the support, Charlee!
Congratulations Nina; I’m so excited for you!
Thanks so much Steph 🙂 I appreciate it!
Parenting 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.
Thanks 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.
CONGRATS on the book! What a HUGE accomplishment! I should read these other books too :).
Thanks so much Lisa! Oh you’d love them. They might even make for a great book club selection 😉
Wow 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.
No-Drama Discipline is awesome, Melissa. I learned so much from that book. And thanks for your support—I really appreciate it 🙂
Interestingly, 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!
I’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 🙂
Loved reading Nurture Shock, and can’t wait to read your book. Congratulations Nina!
Wasn’t it so good, Leslie? That was one of the earlier ones I read. Thanks so much for your support 🙂
I liked Parenting With Love and Logic… great explanation of natural consequences.
Awesome! Thanks for the book recommendation. I’m adding it to the list.