Organic Baby: Simple Steps for Healthy Living, by Kimberly Rider, is a gorgeously illustrated series of tips on tackling the task of creating a natural nest for your new little one.
Each chapter is organized around spheres of your baby’s life: the nursery, gear, clothing and grooming, baby food, and venturing out into the world. I appreciate the tabs that make it easy to flip to the right section.
The photographs inside this hardcover, spiral-bound book are incredibly seductive, if you thought organic had to be boring, Organic Baby will inspire you.
Incredibly practical, this guide identifies the worst ecological and health offenders and offers suggestions for those who need to make a concession to finances. For example, if you cannot afford an organic crib mattress on your own, consider a share with close neighbors or relatives who are a stage ahead or behind you in the baby department, or place natural and healthy materials between your baby and a conventional mattress.
The helpful resources section lists not only my favorite shops and few new ones to check out, but also discusses valuable human resources like your spouse or a birth doula. A wonderful take on the concept.
Another useful section discusses negotiating the complicated relationships outside of your immediate family. How do you preserve your parenting values while visiting extended family, attending play dates, hiring childcare providers, and enjoying public spaces?
You’ll need other books and websites for more in-depth coverage of specific topics, but Organic Baby is a simple, straightforward guide to getting baby off to a healthy, natural start. And it is beautiful enough to leave out–perhaps inspiring your circle of friends to consider a more harmonious lifestyle.
—
WANT IT: Organic Baby: Simple Steps for Healthy Living, by Kimberly Rider, is available for $16.47.
Check out our Earth Day Guide for more fabulous eco-friendly picks!
