This June parents seeking a meaningful way to connect with their newborns will find the perfect companion in the new board book by crisis interventionist, humanitarian, and author-illustrator Eleanor Brindle. THE FIRST DAYS blends high-contrast, brain-boosting artwork with heartfelt words to create a beautifully crafted book that nurtures connection and supports early development during those precious first moments with a newborn.

The first days with a newborn are a whirlwind of emotions—joy, exhaustion, and an overwhelming sense of wonder. As a parent herself, Eleanor Brindle deeply understands this transformative time and crafted a book that captures the hopes, dreams, and heartfelt wishes caregivers hold for their little ones. Featuring abstract black-and-white illustrations and evocative language, this book offers a meaningful, shared reading experience for families of all kinds. Inspired by both personal experience and scientific research, Brindle’s work is designed to foster connection and early engagement.

“When my child was born, I created a series of black-and-white drawings to engage with my newborn,” Brindle explains. “Over time, I noticed my baby becoming more responsive to visual stimuli, reacting more quickly and attentively. Seeing this impact firsthand inspired me to develop this book, so other parents could share in the experience.”

 Some of the key features of the book include:

  • High-Contrast Art for Early Development – Scientifically proven to enhance brain growth and visual development in infants, the book’s black-and-white illustrations are designed to engage young minds.
  • Rooted in Expert Psychology – Authored by an international crisis interventionist, this book nurtures the bond between caregiver and child, laying the foundation for lifelong resilience.
  • Support for Postpartum Mental Health – By articulating complex emotions, this book offers new parents a comforting, shared experience that promotes mental well-being.
  • A Multi-Sensory Learning Experience – Engaging both sight and sound, this book supports early sensory and emotional development.

With its powerful combination of developmental benefits and emotional depth, Eleanor Brindle’s new board book is a must-have for parents, caregivers, and gift-givers looking to celebrate the joy of new life while fostering meaningful early connections.

ISBN: 9781685557409

By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.