Baby Ecology

by Anya Dunham

GOLD and SILVER - 2023 Feathered Quill Book Awards
GOLD - 2022-23 Reader Views Literary Awards
SILVER - 2023 Nautilus Book Awards
Winner -2023 IndieReader (Parenting)
Finalist - 2022 Foreword INDIES
Finalist - 2023 Next Generation Book Awards
Finalist - 17th Annual NIEA Book Awards
_______

Do you feel overloaded with advice about how to care for your baby? Are you finding that many parenting techniques contradict each other, while all claiming to be “best” and “right”?

As a scientist and mother, Anya Dunham knew there couldn’t be only one right way, and that raising a baby requires more than techniques. She examined hundreds of studies on infant development, sleep, and feeding through the lens of her research field, ecology, and made a key discovery:

There is a biologically optimal nurturing environment for all babies – and within it, a variety of healthy options to meet different babies’ unique needs.

In Baby Ecology, you will find:

- Scientific findings most relevant to everyday baby care
- A shift from techniques (reactively solving problems) to a holistic approach (proactively creating the environment for success)
- Ten biology-based, interconnected building blocks of the environment that nurtures every baby’s unfolding abilities
- A guide to creating these building blocks in your home in a way that works best for your unique baby and your circumstances

Unlike other parenting books, Baby Ecology offers both scientific findings and helpful advice. Use it to create a strong foundation for your baby, while bringing less stress and more joy to your parenting journey.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction

308 pages, Paperback

Published January 25, 2022

About the author

Anya Dunham has a Ph.D. in Biology and over 20 years of experience studying and writing about ecology. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and three children who inspire her to grow and learn every day.

Visit Anya at https://KidEcology.com

Reviews

[Eugenia Bragina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a scientist myself, I was looking for science-based parenting advice since my daughter was born, but it doesn’t look like there are a lot of resources out there. This book goes over all important aspects of parenting – feeding, sleep etc, - and every statement is supported with proper evidence: it has almost 400 references. Four hundred! Not every PhD thesis have such a list. I can only compare it to Emily Oster’s books, but to me, it seems like Dunham’s book is more relaxed, avoid cherry-picking and Oster’s paranoia :) As promised, the author follows holistic approach, and you gain confidence via this reading.
I really enjoy how comprehensive Dr. Dunham's chapters are. For example, when she talks about baby-led weaning, she discusses all possible perks and downsides: risk of choking, enzymes in baby saliva, getting all the nutrients etc. It’s great to have a whole picture with all pros and cons to make your own choice.
The author is not afraid to tackle stereotypes. For example, did you know that a famous ‘maternal instinct’ simply doesn’t exist, in a way that a father’s brain works just as well as a mother’s one when it comes to taking care of their child? Again, you can dive into studies that Dunham cites, and read about it yourself.
What really strikes me is the love and care on each page. The author clearly enjoys being a parent a lot, - not surprising given that she has 3 kids, and share a lot of her own experience, - and this passion translates through the text.
May be some minor critique. Sometimes the authors’ statements just do not connect with me. For example, she talks about ‘love beyond any previous experience’ at the very beginning of the book. My husband and I are still waiting for the moment when we feel love to our 14-month-old. Not ‘love beyond any previous experience’ – just any love. And looking at other fellow parents it seems normal.
But overall, I enjoyed the book a lot, and planning to order it for my pregnant friend as a gift.

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a timely read as I currently find myself on maternity leave with my second child. As a parent, there is an often-overwhelming number of books, advice, and techniques for raising babies. Author Anya Dunham recognizes the at times contradicting approaches to raising babies, as well as the fads and trends that often come with it and uses her scientific background to approach her book “Baby Ecology.”

Ecology is described by Dunham as a branch of biology focusing on the study of living beings, how they relate and interact with their environments. Thus, as the title indicates, this is a cumulation of the study of how babies interact and relate to their environment, specifically in the first 12 months of life. Dunham herself holds a doctorate degree in biology and admits to having read over eight hundred peer-reviewed articles on infants, ranging from development to sleep and feeding. Having raised two kids herself, with another on the way at the time of this book’s penning, she has compiled a comprehensive piece for new and expecting parents. Encompassing both the countless research articles and her own experiences, “Baby Ecology” is truly the only parenting book you need for the first year of life.

Organized into five chapters, Dunham focuses first on getting ready for a newborn. She then pivots into sleep, followed by feeding and care and play, wrapping up with the parents’ role. Each chapter is so well done, both in the content and in how it is pieced into two parts. Part one of each chapter houses the science and studies behind each topic. Part two is then the author’s advice, using her training to craft what she calls “the ONE” – Optimal Nurturing Environment. This approach to each chapter allows parents to get both the scientific perspective and see it in action as the author uses her own, and others’, parenting examples to put her ONE into practice.

After reading this book, I find myself both quoting parts of it to my spouse and approaching my day-to-day maternity leave activities with my new baby differently. From tips on tummy time to helpful sleep routines and nap schedules, “Baby Ecology” has already made a positive impact on our lives, despite this being our second child.

[Jill Rey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a timely read as I currently find myself on maternity leave with my second child. As a parent, there is an often-overwhelming number of books, advice, and techniques for raising babies. Author Anya Dunham recognizes the at times contradicting approaches to raising babies, as well as the fads and trends that often come with it and uses her scientific background to approach her book “Baby Ecology.”

Ecology is described by Dunham as a branch of biology focusing on the study of living beings, how they relate and interact with their environments. Thus, as the title indicates, this is a cumulation of the study of how babies interact and relate to their environment, specifically in the first 12 months of life. Dunham herself holds a doctorate degree in biology and admits to having read over eight hundred peer-reviewed articles on infants, ranging from development to sleep and feeding. Having raised two kids herself, with another on the way at the time of this book’s penning, she has compiled a comprehensive piece for new and expecting parents. Encompassing both the countless research articles and her own experiences, “Baby Ecology” is truly the only parenting book you need for the first year of life.

Organized into five chapters, Dunham focuses first on getting ready for a newborn. She then pivots into sleep, followed by feeding and care and play, wrapping up with the parents’ role. Each chapter is so well done, both in the content and in how it is pieced into two parts. Part one of each chapter houses the science and studies behind each topic. Part two is then the author’s advice, using her training to craft what she calls “the ONE” – Optimal Nurturing Environment. This approach to each chapter allows parents to get both the scientific perspective and see it in action as the author uses her own, and others’, parenting examples to put her ONE into practice.

After reading this book, I find myself both quoting parts of it to my spouse and approaching my day-to-day maternity leave activities with my new baby differently. From tips on tummy time to helpful sleep routines and nap schedules, “Baby Ecology” has already made a positive impact on our lives, despite this being our second child

[Vaiva Staugaitytė · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think a lot of science-based parenting books are as pushy and opinionated as many of their more woo-woo counterparts. Kinda reminds me of atheists that can't stop being pushy and overly verbose about how not real God is. But anyways -

This one is tender, open, incredibly (INCREDIBLY) cited and referential, and really takes you to the meat and bones of what children need in order to flourish without enforcing any specific fad or method about parenting. This kind of guide gives you the tools to take your own values, culture, background, etc etc and knead it into something that includes and represents your entire family while ensuring your baby's needs are met.

Also appreciated how concise it was. Non-fiction as a genre has a rambling and repetition habit that I can't stand, whereas Dunham was able to state, reinforce, and emphasize everything she said only up to the point where it fully stood out, no more no less.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 stars

A good overview of sleep, feeding, and care/play. I came away with a lot of helpful tidbits. A little too general to be as useful as I was hoping for- I reread the sleep section a few times but didn't find it helpful. I ended up buying another book just about baby sleep that was far more in depth and practical.

[Kelsey Pinder · Rating 5 out of 5]

New parents, grandparents, and assorted caregivers of the world - look no further. This is THE new parent handbook!

Dr. Dunham knows her stuff, and she presents it within the pages of Baby Ecology with credibility, clarity, profound kindness, and evident passion. This book cuts through all the "noise" and does exactly what it promises to do - offer parents a way forward that is empowering, encouraging, doable, and truly evidence based without judgement, without engaging in "parenting wars" and with the acknowledgment that each baby and family is unique and has specific contexts to be considered. The "ONE" approach is a brilliant, easy to understand, and helpful model for successfully nurturing a baby in a way that is intentional, honest, customizable and thoroughly evidence based, and I wish it had existed sooner. Additionally, helpful anecdotes, illustrations, diagrams and summary sections help solidify and clarify concepts. I'll admit that I was initially thrown off by the book's organization, as it is uncommon to have a book organized by chapters broken into parts. Usually you'll see parts broken into chapters. However, it became evident very quickly that in the case of this book, the inversion made total sense because of the "science" and "so what?" design of each chapter.

I was given an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchanged for an honest review - these opinions are entirely my own, and are informed by two things:

1) I am in the thick of new parenthood myself. My first child is just shy of 10 months old. From this perspective, I felt seen and cared for while reading this book. At no point did I feel shamed or judged - I only ever felt empowered by scientifically sound, accurate information presented in a clear, kind way.

2) This is my professional field. I have over a decade of experience working with young children in a variety of settings, and I hold a graduate degree in early childhood education and care. I have read many of the studies Dr. Dunham uses in her analysis. I have also read many, MANY parenting & child development books. I have engaged with many professionals and academics within this space, and thus I know how overwhelming the competing voices can be for parents, and even at times for professionals. From this perspective, I must say that I have never come across a book quite like this in how concisely and accurately it presents the evidence, and then offers clear guidance on what to DO with said evidence, without being preachy, without being judgmental, without foregoing nuance, and while acknowledging the limitations of what we know in regards to culture, context, and dominant narratives and how that impacts how, why, and what research does and does not exist. I say again: THIS IS IT. THIS IS THE BOOK.

If you only have time and energy to read one book about infant care and new parenthood, let this one be it. It is my intent to purchase a copy of Baby Ecology as a gift for every single person in my life who is about to embark on the journey of new parenthood. I so wish I had had it myself last year, as I'd have loved to have read it in preparation for my daughter's arrival (although it was just as helpful to read now - I just think it would have been great to have earlier!)

I truly think this book is a game changer, and a worthy guide for every new parent and caregiver as they make their way into the wild, all-consuming, beautiful world of parenting.

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Baby Ecology
Author: Anya Dunham

Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers:
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 9/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 3/5
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
11 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘subject knowledge’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘clarity of message’.
14 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.

Readers’ Comments
“Interesting mix, filled with helpful advice. Being a parent myself, I have read lot of ‘parenting’ books, many are terrible, a few are pretty good. I’d categorize this as better than most. The author has an accessible writing style and seems keen to help parents enjoy parenthood.” Female reader, aged 38
“Practical and not too judgmental – important aspects of any parenting book.” Male reader, aged 58
“Evidence-based, thoroughly practicable with a ‘helpful’ feel to the text. The author looks at many aspects of parenting and seems very open-minded. I suspect this would go down well with new parents and soon-to-be parents.” Female reader, aged 42
“A lot of help in this book in terms of baby sleeping and feeding. I personally enjoyed the author’s positive attitude, and her ability to understand what parents need to know. Educational with a science-based feel to it.” Female reader, aged 60
“Honest, accessibly written, well-constructed and filled with good advice.” Female reader, aged 33


To Sum It Up:
‘A smartly constructed ‘parenting’ handbook willed with honest, easy to access advice. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

[Corinna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baby Ecology synthesizes scientific information on baby care into an enjoyable and easy-to-read format for parents and caregivers. The premise is that there is a range of ways to nurture and care for babies (according to science), and parents can try various options within that range and be confident that they are meeting the needs of their babies. This idea was refreshing to explore as some books, and many online baby resources, present information and advice as the one and only way, and if that doesn't work for you then you're left questioning if there is something wrong with you or your baby. In general the book describes how to set up safe environments, respond to your baby, and reminds us that providing love is most important.

The book intersperses sections that summarize scientific studies, with personal stories, snapshots into a baby's perspective, as well as some sections with short lists on topics such as sample nap schedules and feeding tips. The variety in the writing was interesting. I was mindful about when passages of scientific findings switched to mother-to-reader advice, which was usually clear by checking to see if there were references.

The bibliography was impressive, with hundreds of books and science papers cited. I found myself looking up some of the references to learn more on a topic. While heavily science-based, the tone was warm to not make the book feel like reading a formal science article. There were also lovely sections of reassurance and encouragement that felt personal and written from the heart.

My only wish was that there was more! There were some sections that seemed short compared to the others. I would have loved to read more on "Your Role" (chapter 5).

Overall, I'm happy I got to read this book in preparation for my soon-to-arrive second and will be thinking back to the basics of creating a holistic healthy environment for baby.

[Kathleen Garber · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are pregnant or this is your first baby, Baby Ecology is a great book to get you introduced to the basics of caring for a baby. From bring baby home to sleep, feeding, environment, development and your role.

Overall it’s a good guide for new parents but if you’ve already read a bunch of basics books, you won’t find anything brand new. If you haven’t started reading yet, I do recommend this one.

One thing that is different from other books is the From Your Baby’s Perspective parts. Although the information in the book on childcare isn’t new, I’ve never seen this feature before. It is an explanation of what it must be like from your child’s point of view.

For example when the book talks about consistent sleep associations and routines, it talks about the problem with having your baby fall asleep in one spot and then moving them to another. The baby’s perspective part starts like this:

“Imagine you go to sleep as usual, on your favourite side of the bed […]. You wake up at night to find that your pillow is no longer there. You sit up to check if it somehow fell on the floor.. .and realize you are not even in your bedroom, but rather in the living room. Imagine this happening several times in a row […].

At the end of each chapter is a recap of the key points. This would make a great gift for a mom to be.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an incredibly helpful resource for new parents! There are other evidence-based books out there, but I ultimately found this one most useful.

Anya gives you a breakdown of the basics - preparing for baby, feeding, sleep habits, and how to connect and support your baby's development. She gives examples of what some experiences are like from your baby's perspective, which I found surprisingly helpful, and treats newborns as independent humans worthy of respect.

Though it's based in science, her philosophy on newborn care is centered around love and respect, and never feels clinical. She takes a truly unbiased view, and doesn't come across as condescending, even if the recommendation is one that's difficult (for example, laying out the facts about why breastfeeding can be optimal, but not shaming anyone who can't, and presenting formula as a great option that we have in those scenarios).

I also like that her recommendations are not complicated or expensive. We're surrounded with expensive baby gear, baby toys, etc. and she reinforces that you simply don't need most of those things. Not only that, but your baby may be better off without all the stimulation. She also recommends other books at the end for new parents - which is really helpful when there are SO many other books out there.

I will definitely be recommending this one to my other friends having their first baby!

[Hannah Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best baby book out there. This book truly helps quell any fears parents may have when thinking about the small details and practical steps of how to bring a baby into their lives. It is true that there are so many messages out there about the "correct" ways to raise a child, the nature vs. nurture argument, etc.--but this book really brings scientific research, historically common approaches, and new holistic approaches together in a very affirming and accessible context.

The author, Anya Dunham, clearly has a passion for this stuff. Her ability to make the sciency stuff clear, and the practical stuff easy to connect with is an actual superpower. By bringing all of the concepts together she offers several approaches and options for parents to pick from--never asserting anything negative about any one approach. Because, realistically, everyone is different and every family dynamic is different, parents should get to pick and choose which practices will work for them in the context of their own lives. And being driven by evidence-based research and her own experiences, Dunham makes that task infinitely easier than any other parenting book out there.

This is definitely a must-read for all parents, but especially new parents.

[Kathrin Spinnler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baby Ecology by Anya Dunham is a comprehensive and research-based guide about taking care of babies, from birth to around 12 months. The author dives into three important topics: sleep, feeding, and play/development.

I enjoyed the structure of this book. Each chapter is divided into two parts. First, we learn about the science behind the recommendations, then, the author gives us suggestions about how to apply the ideas to our own situation. Because each family and environment is different, there are always several options, and the advice is not prescriptive.

For new parents, this book is incredibly helpful. It dispels many of the myths of parenting, for example that you have to offer your kids lots of complex activities from an early age and that they will be behind if they don't use technology in their first year. The author's advice is reassuring for new parents, and it helps them to understand their baby better.

I would recommend this book to all new parents who are looking for a comprehensive, helpful resource. In addition to the great content, there are also lots of book and research study recommendations, so you can read more if necessary.

[Adrien Weinhoffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I would've found this book during my pregnancy!
Despite being past the first year of my own child, I still learned new things and I especially found the sleep chapter to be informative!
Rather than a book that goes over milestones and month by month growing of your baby, this book brings to light the science of baby development and how their environment affects that, whether positively or negatively.
It also advocates for breastfeeding, which feels important in contrast to the more neutral opinions I've previously read. And it feels nice to be recognized. That being said, it still supports formula feeding as an option as well and I love that!
The book brings up many different topics as it goes and tends to pick up those topics and study them more in-depth, which was really interesting. I love learning anything I can and this book was so educational.
Highly recommend if you're expecting, have a baby, or just want to be more informed on babies in general!

[Lily A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautiful and profound book. It is one of those books you go back to from time to time to dig up the nuances you may have left during the first reading, this time with a notebook at hand.
Here, Author Anya Dunham writes with immediacy, clarity, and empathy as she takes readers through the science of baby development and how their surroundings play a role in shaping that. She breaks down information, practically, empirically, and scientifically in bit consumable sizes as she analyzes day-to-day approaches to caring for and nurturing your child. It is deeply enlightening and Dunham's compassionate voice leaves an indelible mark along the chapters.
The text's infusion of anecdotes holds the attention of the reader and builds on plausibility. Its gentle nudges to parents are both encouraging and bring much-needed comfort to many parents, especially first-time parents. This thoughtful book is an invaluable resource and a blueprint for rewarding parenting.

[Dennis Ogbeide · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it comes to baby care, I’ve noticed that people usually follow practices pushed to them by family, friends and some books, without any justification or explanation - with a “that’s how it’s done approach”
But what I truly appreciate about this book, is the author’s (Anya Dunham) ability to back all her recommendations and approaches with science, while still using a practical and human approach in explaining it. Parents usually have to go through the phase of sleep cycles, feeding and not knowing what to do. I like how she portrays that caring for a baby does not have a one size fits all approach; there is no right or wrong, there is just the approach that works for your baby in that time and moment, realistically every family is different and parents should be able to understand that picking practices on baby care is heavily dependent on their baby’s needs and also what will work for them. This is a good read for parents, expecting parents and especially caregivers.

[Hiren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the fact that the book goes the extra mile in terms of treating babies as individuals with respect. There are many examples mentioned which put the reader in a baby's shoes, often bringing out concerns and reactions that adults might often take for granted.

The length of both, the book itself as well as that of individual chapters feels just about right. Chapters have a thoughtful list of key take-aways after they end and there is also a huge bibliography after the epilogue for further research and reference.

The book tries hard to deal with certain sensitive and controversial aspects of raising a baby. However, I would have liked it better if there were more mentions of the experiences of other parents (i.e. apart from the author) . I found the number of anecdotes belonging to other parents to be a bit less compared to the breadth of subjects that the book delves into.

[bird · Rating 4 out of 5]

i thought this was nice as a highly-informed but flexible and non-terrifying baby book whose main argument is "you will develop parenting skills by paying close attention to your baby and considering their experience as their own person." a lot of the gentle recommendations end up being sounding strenuous, particularly the first year nap scheduling (and "wholefood for baby" did make me laugh), but babies are indeed strenuous, and what do i know?

there's these very funny asides that are like "how to empathize with your baby through imagining a relevant adult situation" and one of them is like "imagine getting on a redeye plane to a foreign country and you get off and you know you have a next plane but you don't know when or to where or what time zone you're in. that's how your baby feels when it misses a nap." it feels ALL THAT???

[Muzakkir Masum · Rating 4 out of 5]

In South Asian culture, like many other, parenting knowledge is traditionally passed down through family rather than books or classes. For those living away from family, like me, this can be daunting. Online resources often lack reliability, so I turned to Anya Dunham's "Baby Ecology." This research-based book offers a comprehensive guide on baby care, divided into three key areas: Sleep, Feeding, and Care & Play. It combines scientific facts with practical advice, respecting cultural differences and debunking myths. While not exhaustive, it boosts new parents' confidence and knowledge. "Baby Ecology" is highly recommended for its insightful, research-backed approach to parenting.
Here is my full review on the book: https://muzakkirmasum.wordpress.com/2...

[Kelsey Godkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend reading this book if you are an expecting or new parent. It's simplicity and real life examples made it very easy to read and understand. I have been very overwhelmed with other books or online articles but found "Baby Ecology" very nicely laid out and straight forward. I was nice that Anya touched base on multiple different factors/techniques on raising our babies.

Only negative is I wish this book was published a year ago prior to having my baby! Saying that I still found lots of relatable information for my one year old. :)

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I found it very easy to follow and stage engaged with. The information is very helpful and combines science with love and nurture. I read it after I had my third baby and found some useful tips that have helped with better sleep and understanding with my newborn. Really like the gentle approach and information. Doesn't deny cosleeping which most people seem to do and gives safe advice if you are going to. Very informative for the many different stages of babies. Highly recommend this book.

[Enid Elliot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that will help new families navigate the path of welcoming a new baby. There is an overwhelming amount of advice, opinions and theories about babies. This offers information that can help a new family decide what the options might be and what will work best for them. It is clearly and thoughtfully written.
An excellent read and resource.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much. It's packed with great science backed information about the biology of your baby. There is a great mix of technical discussion, but written in a very understandable and easy to follow manner. It teaches you what your baby is biologically capable of (and not capable of) from the womb onwards. It was really eye opening and I'd recommend it to every mother!

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of all the parenting books I have read this was so very great. Easy to read. Evidence based research delivered in a practical way. No “should” was stated, just best practice. I loved it and think all new parents could benefit.

[Milos · Rating 5 out of 5]

An insightful read, carefully supported by scientific citations from cover to cover. It’s a valuable book for parents who want evidence-based parenting information presented in a clear, approachable way.

[Megan Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great information that is practical and helpful. Nothing groundbreaking, but we’ll balanced advice.

[Daniella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm ready to mild meld with baby <3

[Nadia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative with lots of handy tips. It's a book that instills confidence.