I’ve always believed that when it comes to discussing important topics with your child(ren), starting with a book is the perfect approach. Before my second baby’s home birth, I wanted to prepare my oldest for what was to come, especially since she’d be around and free to move in and out of the birth space as she wished. As it turns out, she was a little mini doula, not wanting to miss a moment!
Explaining things like the “animal sounds” mom might make and what a physiological birth involves was so much easier with the help of the books we read. I truly believe they set us all up for success on the big day. And when it was time for my third baby’s birth, these books came in handy again for my oldest two. Here are the books that helped us along the way!
The Waterbirth Story by Lisa Marie Sanchez Oxenbam
This book offers an empowering account of water birth. The way it details ‘mama’s sounds’ is very helpful and the illustrations grab you immediately!
Mommy’s Having a Homebirth by Natalie Johanik
This is such a sweet and informative book that introduces the concept of home birth in such a simple way. It celebrates the beauty and normalcy of birthing at home. The illustrated glossary at the end is also great to help littles learn what to expect in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum in their household.
Birth is Magic by Christie Murray & Matea Lehpamer
My friend in Australia recommended this one to me, and it is perfect in every way, from prepping the birth space, to the stages of labour. If you can get your hands on it, it’s truly beautiful!
My Mother is the Strongest by Cynthia Durand
This one uses very simple language and lots of imagery to help a very young child understand birth and what to expect.
Mama Says Homebirth by Miquilaue Young
This book is told through the voice of the ‘big-sister-to-be’ and builds up the love and excitement that comes with having a new sibling.
The Midwife’s Visit by Kelly B. Jenkins
The illustrations in this book were hand drawn using actual photographs from the author’s birth, and it was loved as much by me as my children. It’s information is as powerful as it’s beauty!
Welcome Home by Alisha Bourke
Like many of the other books suggested so far, this one continues to give such an informative account of birth, in such a digestible way for kids – from positions in labour, to baby crowning, to birthing the placenta and breastfeeding – it’s all there!
The Birth of Our New Baby by Ashley Comer
This is another book that’s told through the eyes of the big sister and filled with excitement and wonder, and bright illustrations.
Our Homebirth with a Midwife by DeShaun Desrosiers
This one is very informative about midwifery care and how to take good care of mama!
Hello Baby by Jenni Overend
My one objection to this book is that the illustration of bedsharing at the end is not shown in a safe manner. However, the heartwarming story of a winter birth in a cottage, where the father chops wood for the fire and the family comes together to welcome their new arrival, makes this cozy book worth sharing.
Happy Birth-Learning with Your Littles!