Kids food health 1: nutrition and your child's development--the first year. (Book Reviews).

McVeagh P, Reed E, Finch Publishing, Sydney, 2001, 202 pages, $21.95, ISBN 1-876451-14-9

This book is a comprehensive resource for parents on all aspects of children's eating in the first year. It is the first in a series; other titles cover toddler to preschool and school-age to teenage. It is intended for parents, but would also be useful for students of dietetics, medicine, or nursing who need accurate and practical information on a wide range of issues around children's eating, or even practitioners to offer confidence in areas where they may not regularly be called on for advice.

The authors offer the book in response to requests for 'further information', gathered together in a 'current review'. The information is authoritative and evidence-based, and the book is crammed with information. The credibility of the authors is high; they are knowledgeable and experienced and this is reflected in the content and writing. They do not encourage over-concern but try to engender a relaxed sense of enjoyment in having a baby.

The illustrations are few and are in black and white, and there is a large amount of concentrated reading. For the educated parent who wants plenty of background to help inform her own decision it is a great source of additional information. For many parents there would be too much reading presented in an overpowering way. There is a comprehensive discussion of the effects of ante-natal influences on child and later health, and many parents would find the concepts of programming quite complex, and the formal definitions of organic labelling and GM foods daunting and perhaps not relevant to them. There is also a lot of very practical information. While clearly supportive of breast-feeding as the feed of choice, with three chapters on the mechanics, choice and problem solving, there is also practical advice on choosing between the formulae at the supermarket or pharmacy, and tips on formula feeding. Areas such as introduction of solids are covered well, but are available from many sources. The information here is extended to include formal definitions of organic, and GM foods. Current issues such as food allergies, and a section on childcare for the child in the first year are included.

Of course, the book is hardly expected to be read cover to cover, but to be used as a resource as the baby grows up, or as a question arises. Every topic is included from 'poos in infants', to 'reflux and vomiting'. There is an extensive glossary of terms relating to baby health and nutrition, and a list of resources for further advice.

Generally, an accurate and comprehensive book for the parent (and not so-experienced professional) who wants plenty of background to the issues of concern. Not so useful for the parent who wants a no-frills, and not too much to read, source. Well recommended, and at an affordable price.