Things I Wish I'd Known Before We Became Parents - Review

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Thinking about starting a family in the near future - or already in the trenches, but want to prepare for what's ahead?

Gary Chapman (author of The 5 Love Languages) has teamed up with Shannon Warden to provide a little help for your journey...

I received a free copy of this product in exchange for writing a review.  All opinions are my own.

Gary Chapman is a familiar name - whether you're an otter, a beaver, a golden retriever or a lion, you're probably have some experience with him or his 5 Love Languages.

In fact, many preparation for marriage classes include his books or Gary's views and advice as part of the curriculum.  

Now he's teamed up with Shannon Warden (who was on staff at his counseling office) to provide you not only with his years of experience, but tips from someone whose home is still filled with children, as well.

The simple cover is both fitting and clever - setting just the right tone for this no muss, no fuss guide.

The book was a quick read - it does a perfect job of hitting the main topics that face parents today.

I loved how each chapter gets in there, says what it needs to with a personal story or two that you can connect with, and then moves on to the next issue - because who has time to read endless droning about a point that's already been made in the beginning paragraphs, right?

I also really appreciate how Chapman is up-front about being a Christian, but doesn't feel the need to insert a zillion Bible verses into every other sentence.  I'm all for relating everything in life to the Bible, but sometimes I just wish an author would get on with things and reach the point more quickly.

By not feeling the need to constantly "prove" his beliefs, he's able to discuss his faith in a more natural manner, which I think makes this work more approachable for non-Christians to read, as well.

Some of the "things" that Chapman wishes he'd known before he became a parent include the impact kids have on a couple's schedule, budget, and marriage.  Other topics that are highlighted include boundaries, personalities, and all aspects of a child's health.  The wisdom shared by Chapman and Warden really hits all the bases!

My favorite chapters centered on discipline, emotional health and the ways we are models for our children.  Chapman continues to expand the information presented in his previous books while discussing these subjects.

Even though I have several Chapman titles sitting on my bookshelf and know that some information is common throughout all of them, it's always good to be reminded of such important lessons - and see these concepts in action with situations relating specifically to parents and children!

As a bonus, each chapter concludes with a "Talking it Over" section.  The 4-8 questions presented are a great place for you and your spouse to start when discussing what you want your parenting team to look like.

This book is a great addition to my list of books that I always hand out to friends when I learn they're expecting (SL, I'm talking to you!  Add this one to the list!)

I highly recommend grabbing a copy to read here.

Have you read any books by Gary Chapman before?  I'd love to hear!  Either leave a comment below or email me at lisahealy (at) outlook (dot) com.

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