376. The Data-Driven Guide to Sane Parenting

In 'Cribsheet', Emily Oster applies her economic perspective to the challenges of early parenting. The book debunks myths and conventional wisdom by analyzing research and scientific studies on various parenting issues such as breastfeeding, circumcision, sleep training, and childcare. Oster emphasizes that there is often no single 'right' answer and that decisions should be based on a combination of data and what works best for each family's unique circumstances. The book aims to empower parents with a decision framework, helping them navigate the complexities of parenting with a calm and informed approach.

In *Expecting Better*, Emily Oster, an award-winning economist, evaluates the data behind conventional pregnancy rules and discovers that many are misguided or flat-out wrong. The book explains everything from the real effects of caffeine and alcohol to the surprising dangers of gardening, aiming to empower pregnant women to make their own informed decisions and enjoy a healthy and relaxed pregnancy. It is organized into sections covering conception, each trimester, and labor and delivery, making it accessible and practical for pregnant women.

Raising America explores the evolution of child-rearing advice in the United States, highlighting the ongoing debate between 'child-centered' and 'parent-centered' approaches. The book examines how experts like L. Emmett Holt, G. Stanley Hall, Benjamin Spock, and Bruno Bettelheim influenced parenting practices, reflecting broader societal anxieties and expectations.