Things I Wish I’d Known Before We Became Parents by Gary Chapman & Shannon Warden

Dr. Gary Chapman, who has guided millions in preparing for marriage, now helps you prepare for parenthood. Things I Wish I’d Known Before We Became Parents equips you to raise young children with confidence.

Teaming up with Dr. Shannon Warden—a counseling professor, wife, and mother of three—Chapman (renowned relationship expert and author of the #1 New York Times bestseller The 5 Love Languages) delivers a book that’s insightful, practical, and engaging. Drawing from their personal experiences and decades of counseling parents, they share wisdom they wish they’d had before starting a family.

Children reshape your time, finances, and marriage—and that’s just the start. With warmth and humor, the authors offer guidance on everything from potty training to managing schedules, apologizing to your child, and nurturing a strong marriage—all while embracing the incredible joy kids bring.

“We hope to pass along lessons from our own journeys and the hundreds of parents we’ve counseled. Read this book before your baby arrives, then revisit its advice as you navigate the beautiful, rewarding challenges of raising children.”