Educational Media Reviews Online

The change from expectant parent to parent-with-child can be confusing, tiring, and a major upheaval. Postpartum addresses this change in five major areas: feelings about baby and self, relationship with one's partner, getting support, taking care of oneself, and work and child care.

A variety of techniques are used to lend interest to the topic. A mom or dad with a new baby talks directly to the camera or is filmed doing whatever the voiceover is explaining. At one point, a bit done in old-time film style provides a cute break; at another, a speeded-up film of a mom trying to do everything gives viewers something to smile at. Graphics are employed to highlight checklists, statistics, tips, and headings or labels; these provide organization and something to read as well as watch.

Solid information and practical advice are conveyed in an easy-to-understand manner. The dangers are clearly outlined: of trying to be Supermom, of not being honest, of not communicating with one's partner, of postpartum depression. The importance of taking a break, taking care of oneself, accepting help, and communicating is stressed.

Many scenes of parents with their babies are shown. A mom or dad with a young baby or an expectant parent would enjoy watching this video and would learn much from it. A multiracial group of parents is used, and there is a single mom who talks about her particular situation. High school parenting or family life classes would benefit from this presentation, as would childbirth classes for expectant parents or the circulating collection of videos in a public library.

With excellent production values, an interesting topic, and solid advice, this DVD is an excellent source for new and prospective parents. And of course, there are those oh-so-cute babies. . .