Parenting Right From the Start

Build a firm, caring presence in the early years

Dr. Vanessa believes that the conscious focus of all parenting efforts should be nurturing a secure attachment. Supported by the latest scientific research, Dr. Vanessa shows how a strong bond with parents is the foundation from which children learn to regulate their emotions, master social skills, and develop a sense of identity. Yet many accepted parenting practices, such as sleep training and timeouts, disrupt healthy connection.

Parenting Right From the Start will show you how to nurture the vital connection between you and your child as you manage their physical needs and cope compassionately with their emotional growth. Learn how connection helps to grow a young child’s brain and how parents can be in charge without compromising healthy attachment. When you build a firm, caring, and connected presence in the early years, your child will lean into it for a lifetime.

Dr. Vanessa Lapointe

Dr. Vanessa Lapointe is the author of the bestselling Discipline Without Damage and award-winning Parenting Right From the Start. A registered psychologist, she is also the founder of The Wishing Star Lapointe Developmental Clinic. She has supported families and children for more than fifteen years and is a sought-after lecturer. She lives in Vancouver, Canada, with her partner and two sons.

Praise for Parenting Right From the Start

“This book paves the way for parenting that is connected, rewarding, and meaningful.”

Tina Payne Bryson, PhD, bestselling co-author of The Whole-Brain Child and No Drama Discipline

“A wise and encouraging guide to nurturing the life-changing connection between you and your child.”

 Ann Douglas, bestselling author of Happy Parents, Happy Kids

“This is the book the world has been waiting for. It is the absolute best exploration of early parenting, gifting parents with so many beautiful understandings of this ancient and sacred dance.”

Maggie Dent, author of Mothering Our Boys and other books

“A brilliant, soulful, and insightful book on the primacy of early years. Connection and compassion shine in Dr. Vanessa’s parenting wisdom.”

Raffi Cavoukian, CM, OBC, singer, author, Raffi Foundation for Child Honouring

“Dr. Vanessa’s book is the one every parent needs to be able to navigate the white waters of parenting. If every parent read this book we could change the world within the next generation for the greater good of humanity.”

Kerwin Rae, creator of the podcast Unstoppable, entrepreneur, and international speaker

“Dr. Vanessa shows us that parents can choose the kind of parent they want to be. Grounded in the science of child development, Parenting Right From the Start is empowering, inspirational, and practical! A must-read for new parents and caregivers.”

Marilyn Price-Mitchell, PhD, developmental psychologist and author of Tomorrow’s Change Makers