French Children Don't Throw Food

Amusing and insightful.

Initially, I really enjoyed reading this book, and found some of it fascinating. Unfortunately, the advice dished out here is predominately based in anecdote rather than science, and could potentially be pretty undermining. It demonises completely natural infant behaviour, disregards the importance of responsive parenting and undermines breastfeeding as well as feeds into some patriarchal ideals that to this day repress women. The pitching of “Anglo-Saxon” and “french” parenting against each other throughout this book is also distasteful in the least and irresponsible, especially in the current socio-political climate. A somewhat interesting read but to be enjoyed with a massive pinch of salt.

I loved this book. As a new mum, it was fascinating to get an insight into child rearing and the way it is practiced and achieved in Paris. I set out to try to take key messages from this book, to equip us for the years ahead with our child, but as I kept reading, I actually just enjoyed it, relaxed into it, laughed out loud at some of the stories, and probably the 'messages' just got through without me trying to memorise any fancy new parenting technique!

I kept thinking of the French friends we've had over the years, and it all made sense. They do parenting very effectively over in France. The results are clear to see. We have a lot to learn in the UK and USA (on the whole) and this book gives you plenty to think about. If our society's children were all so well-behaved, there would be no need for this book!

All in all, a humorous, intimate and interesting cultural comparison which strangely leaves the reader feeling chuffed they're now in on some sort of secret. It's not supposed to be a parenting manual, but no doubt it will teach any parent, new or experienced, something they hadn't before considered and may find helpful. At the very least it should challenge the way we sometimes view our offspring, and the subsequent behavioural problems this creates.

My only question is why the title of this book - Bringing up Bebe - is different for the American market. Not that it matters. Great book!