1 SENTENCE SUMMARY: This book is an invaluable resource for couples to understand the impact of parenthood on their relationship, and to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a healthy and supportive partnership.
“The parenting journey is an invitation to growth, to explore our inner resources, to learn the importance of connection, and to find joy in our deepest work as parents.”
Quick Info

Category: Parenting
Publish Date: 1993-06-01
# Pages: 272
ISBN: 0465091601
Where to Get It:
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Table of Contents
Overview
When Partners Become Parents by Carolyn Pape Cowan is an insightful book about the challenges and rewards of parenting for couples.
It provides an in-depth look at how couples adjust to their transition from partners to parents and explores the potential pitfalls along the way.
Cowan draws from her decades of experience as a clinician and researcher to provide couples with the necessary tools to successfully navigate the transition to parenthood.
The book provides practical advice on how to cultivate strong relationships and build healthy families, while also acknowledging the inevitable challenges that come with being a parent.
4 Key Lessons from When Partners Become Parents by Carolyn Pape Cowan
1. Understand the Impact of Parenthood on a Relationship
Parenthood has the potential to both enhance and challenge a relationship.
It is important to be aware of the changes that come with having children and to take the time to discuss these changes with your partner.
Understanding the impact of parenthood on a relationship can help couples to navigate their new roles and responsibilities as parents in a way that fosters connection, growth, and closeness.
2. Communicate Openly and Effectively
Parenthood often brings up tensions and disagreements between partners.
It is important to be able to communicate openly and effectively with your partner, both during and after the transition to parenthood.
Creating a safe space to talk about feelings and be honest about what is going on can help partners to express their needs and feelings, and to reach a resolution that is satisfactory to both.
3. Utilize a Support System
Having a strong support system is essential for navigating the transition to parenthood.
This support system can include family, friends, and even professionals.
Utilizing these resources can help couples feel less overwhelmed and more confident in their parenting roles.
4. Celebrate the Positive Moments
Parenthood can be a challenging time, but it is also a time to celebrate the joys and positive moments.
Taking time to appreciate the good times with your partner can help to strengthen your relationship and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Who Should Read It
This book should be read by couples who are expecting a baby, parents who already have children, and couples who are considering having children.
It is also a good read for marriage counselors and therapists who work with couples.
Where to Get It
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About Carolyn Pape Cowan
Carolyn Pape Cowan and Philip A. Cowan are a husband-and-wife team of psychologists and teachers who have studied family dynamics for more than 30 years.
They are the authors of many books and papers on the topic, including When Partners Become Parents: The Big Life Change for Couples.
The book was published in 1992 and is widely recognized as a pioneering work in the field of family dynamics.
The Cowans have received numerous awards and recognition for their work on family dynamics and parenting.
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Other Parenting Books you may Like:
- Best Parenting Books
- Your Turn: How to Be an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims
- All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior
- Becoming Attached by Robert Karen
- Beyond Behaviors by Mona Delahooke
Over to You
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Thanks a lot,
Simon

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