Best, Evidence-Based Brain Development Books of 2022 (babies, toddlers and young children)

Brain Rules for Babies: How to Raise a Smart and Happy Child from Zero to Five – A fun, scientifically-based guide addressing the most important questions of early brain development. Dr. Medina presents useful tips and tricks for topics: What to do during pregnancy? How to sleep train a baby? What is the most effective parenting style? And much, much more.   

Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby’s First Year – This practical and comprehensive best-selling reference book will leave you in awe of the brain changes occurring during first year of infancy. By following along, you will be better attuned to your child’s needs. Doctors agree that the first year of a child’s life is the most critical – it is filled with novel, rich experiences at the brain builds the blueprint for the rest of the child’s life.  

Einstein Never Used Flashcards – For the super parent who is uncertain about how to raise a child the right way in today’s competitive age of academics and technology. This data driven book written by leading researchers in the field of child brain development covers everything that you need to know to help your growing child succeed. Integrated into the book are fun mini experiments that you can try with your child and assess where they are on their developmental journey!

The Montessori Toddler: A Parent’s Guide to Raising a Curious and Responsible Human Being – See the world through your toddler’s eyes with this fascinating read. Based on the renowned Dr. Montessori’s method of raising a well-adjusted and happy child. Contains practical application ideas extending across every stage of toddler development.

 Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child – Emotional intelligence, defined as self-awareness and empathy skills in social situations, is a key predictor of future success. Nurture the young child’s developing brain during the early years by using an effective and emotionally engaging parenting style, that will bring out the best in every child.

The Music Advantage: How Music Helps Your Child Develop, Learn and Thrive – Have you ever wondered why music makes you smarter? If so, then this book is for you. It provides evidence-based insights into the benefits of music and high school achievement as related to learning. It details the activation of paralleling brain structures ultimately leading to a more intelligent child by teaching the principles of success including work ethic, perseverance and grit.

How Toddlers Thrive – A lively and practical book from the “toddler whisperer” herself. Dr. Klein is a child psychologist and a parenting expert. This book will reward its readers with a thorough understanding of the world through a young child’s eyes. It is rich with science-based tips and tricks and is strongly recommended as a starting point for a first time parent or care provider.

1,2,3, Magic – Take your power back, eliminate tantrums and enhance your relationship with your child with this top best seller child discipline book. Children thrive with set limits and boundaries. By applying simple child psychology principles you can raise your toddler with confidence and peace. This method has worked for many children and is highly recommended by pediatricians.

Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans – In a one of a kind book filled with ancient wisdom and relevant advice applicable to modern parents, you will acquire a new perspective after learning how other cultures raise their children around the world. Doucleff goes on a journey into native family homes, taking her toddler daughter along for an unforgettable experience. She learns discipline without yelling, practical takeaway tips and tricks that have been scientifically proven to support the development of mentally and emotionally well balanced children.

The Whole Brain Child – An outstanding book written by brain experts and New York best selling authors. It is filled with real life examples of parent-child scenarios on how to navigate the complex and emotional world of childhood. You will gain a deep understanding of brain development and learn useful science-based strategies to help troubleshoot any situation. Become a skillful parent and see the results for yourself with happier and calmer children! 

How to Parent So Children Will Learn – In this timeless classic, renowned child psychologist, Dr. Sylvia Rimm, answers all of your child-related questions in a one of a kind comprehensive guide. The book is written in an easy-to-follow dialogue format and feels like you are right there in the room with her. Dr. Rimm advises parents on many topics ranging from the Preschool years to College age. It is a gem of a book and one of those rare reads that you will keep referring to during your child’s development!