The Top Parenting Canon Books

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I’m a reader and researcher. When I entered the vast and occasionally tumultuous waters of motherhood, I turned to what I knew best: books. I’ve read possibly an embarrassing amount of books on parenting and running a household. Now, I’d like to share which books have most shaped my parenting and how I handle our home. I fondly refer to these books as my parenting canon.

Parenting Handbooks

1. Simplicity Parenting by Kim John Payne

This is the first book on the list because if you only read one book on this list, this is the one. It’s an extremely comprehensive look at the day to day life of your family. It explains WHY children need a slower and simpler pace to life (really why we all do) and HOW to realistically accomplish this. Dr. Payne takes you through simplifying your family’s schedules, spaces, meals, and more.

2. No Such Thing as Bad Weather by Linda Åkeson McGurk

I love the skillful storytelling of the author mixed with the research and practical advice of the importance of getting kids outside. Linda takes readers through raising her daughters in the states versus the six months they spend in Sweden and different attitudes about being outside and play.

Reading this book made me passionate about getting my son outside everyday. And it worked! He loves being outside. I should let you know that my husband would caution you about the impact of this book. While I’ve been inside soaking up newborn snuggles, he has been taking my toddler on his 5th “walky” of the day. So proceed with discernment.

My sweet husband and son on one of their many daily walks

3. How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen by Joanna Faber and Julie King

I love all the practical strategies and examples in this book. As a special educator, I found that the tips in this book align with best practices used in classroom behavior management. This book gives handles to effectively collaborating with your kids to reduce problem behaviors while maintaining boundaries and sticking to what works for your family.

Keeping House

I did not know how to organize or maintain a tidy space until college. Even then, it was frequently hit or miss. Adding a kid and all the STUFF that comes with them highlighted my need to figure out some systems. These are the two books that I read that gave me starting point to do just that.

1. Organizing for the Rest of Us by Dana K. White

Dana K. White has written a handful of books on decluttering and organizing. I found all the ones that I have read to be practical and refreshing takes on organization. She addresses common behaviors and beliefs that can prevent a home from being organized. Her explanations and strategies were so helpful!

Decluttering and organizing all of baby boy’s 0-12 clothes

2. Declutter like a Mother by Allie Casazza

I found Allie’s tips for decluttering and organizing valuable as well. I specifically adopted the suggestions she makes about the kitchen, such as only have plates and bowls for the number of people in your house. Then having a separate place to keep additional dishes for when company comes. We also limit the number of cups and mugs that we have and opt for mason jars when we need more.

Happy Reading!

If you’re look for more suggestions check out this list. I know it can be hard to find time to read when in the trenches of parenting, but I have found my parenting better for it. Even if it’s just a few pages here and there that can spark some inspiration! Or you can download the Libby app and do things while renting these books from the library! What books have most influenced your parenting?

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