First Bites :: A Review and Giveaway

Here at Cheeky Bums, we talk about food a lot because well, we really like to eat! We also are passionate about giving our children real food. Food that hasn’t been highly processed and provides actual nutrition for our children’s developing minds and bodies. So, we were obviously elated when Hilary Kimes Bernstein of Accidently Green asked if we would be willing to do a review of her new book First Bites!

I must admit that I was a tad bit nervous to agree to do a book review considering I am overwhelmed these days with changing diapers and feeding kids non-stop while also trying to run a business, work a part-time job outside of the home, and keep my house somewhat in order. I’m a book lover but the extent of my reading since child #2 came along has been reading our household bills. Neither fulfilling or enjoyable.

Cheeky Bums has shared several posts on teaching children to eat (see posts: Kelsi, Gretchen, Rusty). One of Hilary’s first comments in her book caught my immediate attention. She writes, ” …giving your child an early, healthy start is a lot easier than you probably think. Remember – it starts before your child is even born. ” Ultimately, we are shaping our children’s taste buds (food preferences) even while they are still in the womb.

Hilary shares great information (and supports it with research) in her book about:

Differences between breast milk and formula
Food guidelines for babies as they begin to eat solids
Store bought vs. homemade baby food
Sensitivity to artificial colors hidden in foods
Hidden ingredients in our food (lead, flame retardants, etc.)

Though I’ve read many blog posts and articles on similar topics, I really appreciated her realistic approach. We are parents who want to provide the best for our children but our ideal is not always what is possible. Some women would like to breastfeed but are physically unable. Give yourself grace!

Hilary gives helpful information on how to choose the best formula for your child. And who wouldn’t want to be able to afford buying all organic produce? For most of us this isn’t possible. She knows we are parents with busy lives and limited incomes. She’s one as well. That’s why she (and Kelsi and I) stress the importance of starting small. Making just one change can have a big impact in the health of your family.

I also greatly appreciated the personal stories that are shared throughout the book. Real moms sharing THEIR stories. These stories along with Hilary’s practical tips on a variety of topics including when and how to start solids, budget friendly baby food tips, and simple and healthy hints to make in your family’sfood life make it a great book for any mom.

Hilary is so graciously offering one of our Cheeky readers their own FREE copy of First Bites in either PDF or Kindle version. The giveaway will run at 12:01 am ET on 10/24/12. A winner will be chosen by Random.org and will be contacted via email.

This book is such a great resource that even if you don’t win the giveaway, you can always purchase it here for only $9.99.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of First Bites for my honest opinion and review. There are no affiliate links in this post.
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