Babyworld Product Reviews

Author: Dr John Briffa

Publisher: Michael Joseph

What it's all about: Dr John Briffa is one of the UK's leading complementary medicine practitioners and authors. This book contains information on over 150 childhood complaints and how to help them naturally (eg through complementary therapies or vitamin and mineral supplements), advice and guidance on what to eat during pregnancy, breastfeeding and weaning and practical tips on how to offer a balanced diet, even if eating problems are rife!

Presentation: The book is presented in an attractive reference format. There are three main sections: the first of which is an introduction to child health, which examines the role supplements and alternative therapies can play in general health; the second of which is an A-Z of common childhood complaints; and the third of which looks in great depth at food, both in nutritional and medical/psychological terms. The book ends with a good list of useful contacts and information. The general layout is very user-friendly - the font size and type is easy to read and the pastel colour-coding for the different sections warms up what could otherwise be a cold white page!

Tone and target audience: Dr Briffa comes across as authoritative but never judgemental. He offers clear and concise definitions of illnesses, options for treatment and prevention and considers all the questions a parent would want discussed. He does too acknowledge that we live in an ideal world, which is particularly welcome when he looks into children's eating problems, warning against becoming too militant with your greens in fear of encouraging your child's rebellious streak!

The good points: For a comprehensive health guide that's easy to dip in and out of, you couldn't ask for anything better. Some of the information included was even relevant and helpful for me as an adult (eg natural approaches to address period pains)! The nutritional charts, showing where, for example, you can obtain certain vitamins from certain foods, was helpful and easy to read.

The bad points: There was not really much bad about this. The only thing that surprised me was the lack of information on complementary therapies such as homeopathy and aromatherapy, both of which can play quite central roles in helping to heal children (eg chamomila for teething, or lavender oil for relaxing a stressed or overtired child). Since he is a complementary practitioner, I would have expected at least a mention of these.

Best Feature: It’s informative without being dull! Worst Feature: More please on other complementary therapies than just the Bach Essences. Verdict: Fantastic book that I will be able to refer to till at least my daughter’s teenage years.

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