52 Small Changes for the Family: Sharpen Minds, Build Confidence, Boost Health, Deepen Connections

by Brett Blumenthal, Danielle Shea Tan

Small changes work. In this practical book, wellness experts Brett Blumenthal and Danielle Tan reveal how to build a foundation of overall health and happiness in the family. They present one small, achievable change every week and the accumulation of these lifestyle changes leads to optimal family health and well-being: deep connections, healthy bodies, emotional balance, intellectual curiosity, and sustained happiness. Backed by research from leading experts and full of helpful charts and worksheets, 52 Small Changes for the Family provides a road map to a better life for the whole family.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Self Help, Family

366 pages, Paperback

Published March 12, 2019

About the author

Brett Blumenthal is co-creator and illustrator of I Wish for You. Prior to becoming a full-time artist, she was the International bestselling author of the wellness book series - 52 Small Changes. Her art career began after giving birth to her son and daring to paint his nursery art. Passionate about wildlife, animals, and the environment, Brett uses her art to raise awareness about the importance of preserving our beautiful planet. You can purchase her artwork directly at www.tinytoesdesign.com.

Brett received her MBA from Johnson at Cornell University, where she graduated as a Park Fellow; she also earned her bachelors degree from Cornell University. She is certified by WELCOA (Wellness Council of America) and AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America).

Reviews

[Leah · Rating 2 out of 5]

As soon as this book starting telling me to put less sunscreen on myself and my family because of the “chemicals” they lost me.

[Tesha Ham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book includes so many ways to create a better family bond and be healthy and mindful together. There is plenty of information on how to approach changes that you could use in your life, and how to apply them to your life. It can very easily be made to be a pick and choose what works for you and your family or do everything; it is very applicable to all different family's way of life and improving it in small to large ways.

I voluntarily read and received a free ARC copy of this title through NetGalley in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love the concept of this book, and as soon as I saw it online, I felt it was right up my street. I think I have tried to read it 4 or 5 times now and can never finish it. I’ve tired to do it weekly as suggested and also all in one go, but whatever I do, it just gets lefts unread - and it’s hard to put my finger on why.

Lots of good ideas, but perhaps it just feels too overwhelming, or you have to be completely on board and in the right mindset. I have finally come to the realisation that I will never finish this book.

[Alicia Bayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a nice, doable way to make positive changes for your family in small weekly doses. Most of the things on the list are things we already know to do -- sleep better, drink enough water, laugh more, etc. -- but the author offers a range of helpful tips for each one to actually make it easier to accomplish. This could be a fun way to start a new year and try to do better all around, with 52 healthy goals instead of one big resolution. Hopefully, by the end of each week working on that one goal, it will have become more of an ingrained habit long-term.

I read a temporary ARC for the purpose of review.

[Karah Spahn · Rating 2 out of 5]

The back of this book reads, "...practical and encouraging guide, you'll learn how even small changes can generate health and happiness in your family. By making one small, achievable change each week... you will build the foundation of a contented family."

I feel like that might be overstepping just a bit-- and for most people, it will take more than a 320 page book to build the foundation of a contented family.

That being said, there are several nice ideas in the pages of this book. Most of which, many families already incorporate. These things seem super obvious and part of our daily life already, but perhaps this will be helpful to other families.

Some of the ideas in this book:
Tickle your funny bone
Sleep Soundly
Hydrate Healthfully
Be a Bookworm
Minimize and Organize
Befriend the Sun
Foster a Positive Relationship to Food
Make Screen Time Purposeful
Say Thanks
Eat the Rainbow
Toss Plastics
Have Real Conversations
Love to Do not to Have
Go Fish
Go Beyond the Piggy Bank
Cook In, Eat Together
Give Back
Live Intentionally

[Kristen · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a great idea, one change a week for your family. But perhaps if you are the kind of person who is picking up this book, you are already doing most of this work.
Lots of focus on physical and emotional health. While there is an extensive bibliography, I question some of the health advice. Especially the parts about essential oils or diet supplements. Chapters become a bit redundant about half way through, though it certainly helps reinforce earlier adopted habits.

[Nur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth reading.

[Ann Mireles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great tips and advice for everyone!

[Rachelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

52 Small Changes for the Family... a book relevant for any individual or family wanting to improve quality of life. Numerous behavioral and activity suggestions for families with children are included. Much of the information was repeated throughout, nothing new here, but a good summary of creative ideas to implement throughout a gradual shift in habits.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short quick read about practical changes to improve your family life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author. All opinions are my own.