They Say: Not Your Average Parenting Book
“They” have a lot to say about parenting, but is what “they say” truly the best way? Who is the ever-present “they” anyway, and how do they know what’s best for your child? With insightful information from a real mom who’s learned how to navigate the hearsay when it comes to parenting, They Say: Not Your Average Parenting Book encourages new parents to trust their instincts, listen to their gut, and keep in mind that what may work for one family may not work for another. With a firmly guilt-free approach and helpful insights on parenting from the newborn stage through the toddler years, Lauren shares the good, the bad, and the ugly truths that helped shape the practical ideas she offers within these pages. Tackling subjects such as potty training, discipline, breastfeeding, infant and toddler sleep, traveling, and managing relationships within the whirlwind of new parenthood, Lauren shares what worked for her, and reminds parents from all walks of life that it’s normal to question oneself as a parent, especially in the age of social media…but that we don’t have to let our anxieties get in the way of enjoying the large and small moments along the way. Candid, insightful, and ultimately revelatory, They Say is a judgment-free, uplifting guide for parents and parents-to-be, from one mom who’s been there.
Praise for They Say (Not Your Average Parenting Book)
“They Say is a down-to-Earth, no shame, guilt-free guide for new and expecting parents! As a mom of three, I could relate to this all too well, and love her approach to parenting. Lauren accurately expresses many of the common emotions and frustrations of being a new parent. She makes you feel like you’re not alone in this parenting journey, and reminds you that though we all make mistakes and all feel guilt, we’re all doing the best we can.”
— Stefanie Eadie,
fashion and lifestyle blogger, According to Blaire, www.accordingtoblaire.com
“Lauren Jumrukovski shares her own honest journey through early motherhood, and reminds all moms to trust their intuitions while raising tiny humans. Relatable and heartfelt, They Say will leave readers with a reassuring message—Mama knows best!”
— Kristin Helms,
author of From Boardroom to Baby: A Roadmap for Career Women Transitioning to Stay-at-Home Moms
“From bringing a newborn home from the hospital to feeding, potty-training, disciplining, venturing out of the house, housework, relationships, recharging as an individual, and much more, Lauren writes openly and honestly about her experiences as a mom. While Lauren shares personal experiences as well as tips and strategies that worked for her family, she is quick to point out that what worked for her might not be what works for others. Lauren’s anti-guilt approach to parenting is refreshing and reassuring. From the advice she received from well-intended family, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers, to the challenges, successes, and amusing anecdotes she never dreamed of before motherhood, They Say encourages new parents to trust their instincts and do what works best for the parent and child.”
— Sharon Neeley,
child care director
“As a new mother, this book is so refreshing! The ‘they says’ of this world constantly surround new parents, and it’s often hard to know who to listen to or what advice to heed. They Say reminds parents that we are exactly who our children need. Lauren provides her honest thoughts and raw emotions she faces as a parent, all while offering practical tips for addressing the challenging moments. Above all, she reminds parents to confidently listen to our God-given intuition and to stand firmly in the joys and decisions of parenting, free of guilt and comparison. Not only has this book helped me keep a sound mind as I navigate the adjustments of becoming a parent, but it’s also reminded me to see the beauty in both the good and the hard parts of raising a child.”
— Callie Simmers,
licensed in K-12 special education and K-6 elementary education
“In They Say, Lauren writes to parents all over the globe, succeeding at promoting a culture of respect and tolerance when it comes to parenting, and encouraging new parents to follow their instincts.”
— Maria Rooney,
former elementary school teacher and current pre-K teacher
“Lauren Jumrukovski does a fantastic job of normalizing intense emotions all parents face, and encourages parents to persevere and let go of the ‘mommy guilt.’ They Say focuses on trusting yourself as a parent and doing what you think is best for your family. It reminds us all to focus on the present and accept the impossibility of perfection. This book offers insightful tips from breastfeeding, to potty-training, to the transition from having one child to having multiple, and so much more!”
— Erin Austin,
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Early Intervention Professional (EIP)
“They Say is a real-life journey through the many joys and struggles of parenting. It’s full of great ideas and common sense approaches to keep your new baby happy and healthy, while still keeping in mind your needs as a new parent. Filled with amusing and heartwarming stories from her own experiences, Lauren has gone far beyond your average parenting book.”
— Christy Sandefur,
registered nurse