See more information on Why Love Matters: How Affection Shapes a Baby's Brain at Amazon UK


Rating: - This book should be compulsory reading prior to anyone bringing a human being into this world.
I truly believe this book should be a compulsory read for anyone thinking or putting themselves in a situation which will result in a human being introduced into this world.

It is a relatively simple read but it explains so well why love is important - even vital - for proper development, not only in order to be able to relate and empathise with others but also for sound mental health.

Many parenting books will talk about "developmental milestones" and so-called "must-haves" ... Read More

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Rating: - A MUST for any parent
I bought this book on a whim without really knowing in which context it was written, whilst I was surprised, I was not dissapointed.

This is not a wishy washy parents handbook with vague advice, it is a very thorough study into the development of babies based on the care given. It is no easy read, but certainly a worthwhile one.

I must add, that if you are reading it following the birth or impending birth of a second, third or fourth (and so on) child then prepare yourself for ... Read More

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Rating: - Opinion dressed up as science
Sue Gerhardt's style of argument can be summed up as follows. Some of the people with problem A also have B. One possible explanation for B is C. C might be linked to experiences in early years. Therefore problem A is caused by not being loved enough as a baby. This is used to explain every problem from asthma to unemployment.

Starting with the simple and uncontroversial point that babies who are cared for tend to do better than babies who are not, Sue Gerhardt's obsession with her view of ... Read More

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Rating: - Why love matters is a conversation starter
Taking the book with me on the bus or at the Waitrose checkout or at the barbers shop or Sussex University its title attracts attention. In the brief encounters which follow I enjoy speaking to parents whose infants obviously enjoy what's going on with the adults. I'm able to affirm that the love care and attention they give the child in those early years do make a difference and will set her up for life. To older people, and I am elderly, I speak of the 'forgiving space' that Sue Gerhart gives me in which ... Read More

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Rating: - An eye opener
I'm expecting my first baby in Feb-2008. I was looking for books about babies psychology, it's true that there are many things you know by instinct but many others are part of medical research, also important to consider.
I read the reviews of this book and that made me buy it immediately!. I loved it since the beginning, although it gives lots of technical info in the first chapters,I found it important as well, to understand in depth the rest of the book.
It's a great eye opener for all parents, ... Read More

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