Books

At Foundations, we’re passionate about early relationships—between babies and their parents, and the ways these shape lifelong emotional wellbeing. Below are some of the books we regularly recommend to parents and professionals alike. Whether you’re preparing for a new baby, raising a toddler, or working in this space, these titles offer insight, compassion and practical support.

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For Parents and Caregivers

Raising a Secure Child
Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper & Bert Powell
Based on the Circle of Security parenting approach, this book offers gentle guidance on how to raise children who feel safe, seen, and supported—without needing to be perfect.

The Whole-Brain Child
Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson
A practical favourite that blends neuroscience with day-to-day parenting. Helps parents understand what’s going on in their child’s brain—and how to respond in ways that build connection and regulation.

Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts
Karen Kleiman
For mothers navigating the intensity of the early months, this illustrated guide normalises intrusive thoughts and perinatal anxiety with warmth, humour, and clinical wisdom.

Mothering Our Boys
Maggie Dent
A popular title from one of Australia’s most trusted parenting educators. Focuses on raising emotionally healthy boys with empathy, boundaries and understanding.

The Gentle Parenting Book
Sarah Ockwell-Smith
A reassuring read for parents wanting to parent without punishments or power struggles. Offers a developmentally attuned, respectful approach grounded in attachment science.

For Expecting and New Parents

Why Love Matters
Sue Gerhardt
This beautifully written book explains how early love and connection literally shape a baby’s developing brain—and why the first years matter so much.

The Birth of a Mother
Daniel Stern & Nadia Bruschweiler-Stern
Looks at the profound psychological changes that come with becoming a parent. Especially helpful for those feeling disoriented in early motherhood.

This Isn’t What I Expected
Karen Kleiman & Valerie Raskin
A compassionate, evidence-based guide for parents struggling with postnatal depression or anxiety. A go-to resource for many of our clients.

For Professionals and Curious Minds

Becoming Attached
Robert Karen
A comprehensive introduction to attachment theory—perfect for those wanting to understand the work of Bowlby, Ainsworth and beyond.

The Psychology of Babies
Lynne Murray
Richly illustrated and clinically informed, this book explains how babies develop socially and emotionally in their first two years.

Parent-Infant Psychodynamics
N. O’Rourke
For those working in depth with early relational trauma and the infant-parent dynamic, this text offers psychodynamic reflections on the emotional life of babies.

Hold On to Your Kids
Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Maté
Explores the importance of preserving parent-child connection in a world increasingly dominated by peer influence.

It takes a village
— and we’re here to be part of yours.

Whether you're navigating parenthood, supporting your child, or caring for your own wellbeing, our team is here to walk alongside you.

Reach out to our client care team today —
we're ready to listen and support you every step of the way.