Current Western parenting advice, says Deborah Jackson, stresses the need to minimise the "bother" that children cause; Jackson claims that this culture views the child as a potentially dominating personality that could undermine parental authority when older and emphasises that this tendency needs to be trained out of them early. The author disputes the scientific basis for such claims, and such a culture, and appeals to parents to trust their own instincts. Using extensive research she puts the case for a child-orientated approach to parenting.

This book is controversial, thought-provoking, carefully researched and passionately argued. It is extremely interesting, and, even if you don't accept all her conclusions, will definitely prompt the reader to reassess their own expectations of the parent-child relationship. --Alison Jardine

This book is wonderful. I did not think I would love it this much. I am currently reading it again with a highlighter in my hand. I'm finding it very hard not to highlight every sentence! I have made my younger sister promise to read it before having children of her own.

My daughter has been a Velcro baby since we arrived home from hospital, refusing to sleep in her crib. So, against what I was led to believe was better judgement, at 8 days old commenced co-sleeping.

To support my decision and unable to obtain that officially from midwife or health visitor (although unofficially acceptable) I researched co-sleeping and have read the Dr Sears and Elizabeth Pantley books. BUT what these books lack is the assurance from research that supports what I deem 'intuitive parenting' which Deborah's book has throughout.

Deborah Jackson's take on baby-focused parenting feels right. It is ultimately comforting to read that it is fine to have my baby fall asleep by breast feeding without being told that this is a bad habit I should take steps to break. She also confirms that babies do not naturally desire to sleep alone for survival reasons.

My baby is four months old and sleeps contentedly, safe and sound by my side every night. She feeds 2-3 times each night but neither of us barely wake to do so. She is happy and thriving, excelling in motor and vocal skills. She rarely cries as her needs are met continuously. This is unobtrusive babycare because it is 100% natural and, thanks to Deborah Jackson, her well researched and ground-breaking book confirms this for me.

If you have ANY doubt about raising your baby in a compassionate and intuitive way, please read this book to settle your mind. I wish I had read it first!

This book made all the difference to my approach to parenting and more importantly sleeping! We had been co-sleeping with our daughter since she was born and had been made to feel that we were indulging her and we would find it hard to break the habit. This book made me realise my instincts were right and to enjoy this time with her as she will soon grow up. If you are thinking of buying this book then don't hesitate as it is the only book I read that has made sense in relation to my baby!

I read the book 11 years ago,when I had my first daughter and just did it-nobody I knew had read it before,it just made sense from page 1.No cot for me then(no pram either) and it was great.All the reviews here are true-every mum should try it and just be open to it.And no,you will not roll on the baby by mistake,unless you're drugged or totally drunk!You won't-will you? I would give Deborah Jackson 10 stars if I could.Buy it.

This book is a wonderful book, it clearly explains why co-sleeping is in the best interest of mother and children. The cartoon of the 2 caves is one that I use a lot to explain to parents why co-sleeping is what a child expects and why this feels safe. SUPERB!