Beyond the Sling: A Review

I recently read Beyond the Sling by Mayim Bialik, and I have to say, I truly enjoyed it. Bialik has an ease in her writing that I appreciate. Her tone is friendly and her voice is supportive, rather than preachy.

As an attachment parent, I felt some level of confirmation in reading this book. For me, I've always parented my children by instinct. I never thought if it as a "style," but calling it "attachment parenting" certainly fits.

I enjoyed reading about her struggles and appreciated her openness about it. She said her husband often helped her through moments when she just wanted to give up, or when she missed her old life before children.

I too, have felt that way. As a matter of fact, I feel I had to almost mourn the loss of that life. I know I'll have it back one day (or some variation of it), but for now it is gone.

Most of what she discusses in the book are things I practice. However, she discussed elimination communication (EC) and this is something I had never heard of until her book. I have seen many pictures of indigenous people, where the babies wear no diapers, but it never occurred to me to question where/how the babies use the bathroom. This section of the book intrigued me very much, but I'll not use it with my daughter. Why? Honestly, it is because I'm not organized or consistent enough to do it.

I think it makes sense and I think it would be healthier for baby, but I just don't see myself doing it effectively.

I also don't adhere to the no vaccines mentality that is discussed in the book. I will not have my baby get the varicella vaccine, but I'll allow her to get the others. I just feel like I'll be mortified if she ends up with a terrible disease because I decided not to get her immunized.

That said, I agree with a lot of the ideas regarding avoiding vaccines. Are they truly necessary? I don't know, with our modern medicine. I'm not going to chance it though. I'm afraid to.

The book was a lovely read and it has influenced me to explore other books. I've downloaded samples of others to my Nook, including a couple by Dr. William Sears.

I highly recommend this book. To anyone who is curious about AP and anyone who wants to form a strong bond with their baby.