Cribsheet Summary
"Cribsheet" is a book by economist and parenting expert Emily Oster that aims to provide evidence-based insights and advice for new parents as they navigate the complex and often overwhelming world of child-rearing. The book is structured as a series of questions and answers, covering topics such as sleep training, feeding, vaccinations, and child care.
Throughout the book, Oster draws on her expertise as an economist to analyze the available data on various parenting practices, and to provide a clear-eyed assessment of what the research does and does not tell us about the best ways to care for our children. She also emphasizes the importance of considering individual circumstances and values, and of making informed decisions that are tailored to each family's unique situation.
One of the key themes of the book is the importance of balancing the desire for perfect parenting with the reality of limited time and resources. Oster acknowledges that many new parents feel pressure to do everything "right," but she also emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and that what works for one family may not work for another. Instead, she encourages parents to focus on the things that matter most to them, and to make informed decisions that prioritize their own needs and values as well as those of their children.
Another important theme of the book is the idea that parenting is not a zero-sum game, and that many of the choices we make as parents can have both positive and negative consequences. For example, Oster notes that while breastfeeding is often touted as the "gold standard" for infant nutrition, the benefits of breastfeeding may be overstated, and there are many other factors to consider when making feeding decisions. Similarly, she discusses the potential trade-offs involved in sleep training, and the ways in which different approaches may impact both the child and the parents.
Overall, "Cribsheet" is a valuable resource for new parents who are seeking evidence-based guidance on a wide range of parenting topics. Oster's approach is refreshingly pragmatic and data-driven, and she presents complex information in a clear and accessible way. The book offers a much-needed antidote to the many myths and misconceptions that abound in the world of parenting, and empowers parents to make informed decisions that are grounded in both science and common sense.
