Best Start

Parents naturally hope their children will grow into capable, content adults, yet the practical route to that goal is not always clear, especially with a baby or toddler. The early months and years shape how a child comes to see themselves, what they believe and feel, how much they value themselves, and how they connect with others. Feeling safe and cared for, and learning to trust, are central to this process.

Clinical psychologist Lynn Jenkins explains how a child's emotional foundations take shape in infancy and why those foundations go on to influence later development. The book focuses on what a baby needs in order to form a healthy, positive sense of self, and offers concrete ways parents can provide it.

Written in a frank, good-humoured style, the book is aimed at parents who want to understand the emotional and psychological needs of their baby and give their child the strongest possible start.