Cribsheet

More about the book

In her latest work, award-winning economist Emily Oster addresses the overwhelming and often conflicting advice new parents face during the early years of parenting. Building on her previous insights into pregnancy, she explores how conventional wisdom can mislead parents regarding critical decisions about feeding, sleep, and schedules. Oster highlights that many common beliefs are overstated, and the trade-offs involved in these choices can be significant. By analyzing data, she debunks several myths, including those surrounding breastfeeding, sleep training, potty training, and language acquisition. Additionally, she guides parents through complex issues such as returning to work, toddler discipline, and balancing relationships with parenting. With a focus on economics as a framework for decision-making, Oster offers a thoughtful approach to navigating the chaos and misinformation prevalent in early parenting. As a trained expert and mother of two, she empowers parents to make informed choices, helping them to maintain their sanity during these formative years.