First Time Mum's Chat

#184 - Struggling with tummy time? You're not alone. In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, certified baby massage instructor and childcare educator Helen Thompson introduces the new series, "Move, Play, Grow," and shares 5 powerful ways to transform tummy time from a daily battle into a bonding experience that builds your baby's strength, confidence, and curiosity. Learn why those tiny early movements matter more than you think—and how to nurture them with rhythm, connection, and joy.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/184.

#183 - In this eye-opening episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm joined by parenting expert and podcast host Ann McKitrick to uncover the fascinating world of infant communication - from subtle cries and facial expressions to scent, gaze, and touch.With 30+ years of experience in early childhood development, Ann brings heartfelt stories and practical insights that will shift the way you understand your baby's needs.

#182 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson welcomes Joss Goulden, a Level 2 Aware Parenting Instructor with over 30 years of experience supporting families.They delve into understanding children's behaviors, emphasizing that actions like tantrums are often a child's way of communicating underlying needs and emotions.Joss shares insights on interpreting these behaviors and offers strategies to respond with empathy and connection, aiming to foster a nurturing environment for both children and parents.Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on nurturing your child's emotional well-being and enhancing your parenting journey.​ Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/182.

#181 - Ever wished your baby came with an instruction manual? While they might not have words yet, babies are amazing little communicators! In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'll help you decode your baby's non-verbal cues so you can better understand their needs—before the crying starts.You'll discover:✔ Early hunger signs (beyond crying!) that can make feeding time easier✔ Subtle discomfort cues that signal gas, tiredness, or temperature changes✔ How to use touch—like baby massage—to soothe and bond with your little oneI'll also share real-life stories from my experience as a childcare educator and nanny to help you recognize and respond to your baby's unique signals. Trust me, learning this “secret language” can make parenting feel so much easier!

#180 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson delves into the nuances of infant communication, focusing on how to interpret your baby's various cries.With her extensive background as a childcare educator and baby massage instructor, Helen offers practical insights to help you distinguish between cries signaling hunger, fatigue, or discomfort.She emphasizes the importance of responding empathetically to these cues to foster a strong parent-child bond. Tune in to enhance your understanding of your baby's needs and strengthen your connection.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/180.

#179 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson delves into the challenges of toddler bedtime routines. Building upon insights from the previous episode on newborn sleep, Helen offers practical strategies to help your toddler recognize their own sleep cues and establish a peaceful, independent bedtime routine.Tune in to transform bedtime struggles into a calming experience for both you and your child.

#178 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson delves into the challenges of newborn sleep.Drawing from her extensive experience as a childcare educator and baby massage instructor, Helen shares five essential strategies to help your baby—and you—get more restful nights.Discover how to interpret your baby's unique sleep cues, establish a calming bedtime routine, and learn why baby massage can be a game-changer in promoting better sleep. Tune in to uncover practical tips that can make your parenting journey smoother and more enjoyable.

In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson sits down with Lauren Dionysius, a former NICU nurse turned baby soul communicator, to explore the profound ways babies connect beyond traditional cues.Discover how understanding your baby's energy and telepathic abilities can deepen your bond and enhance your parenting journey.Are you ready to uncover the hidden wisdom your baby holds? Tune in to learn how to support your little one's unique path with insights that may transform your approach to motherhood.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/177

#176 - Welcoming a new baby into your family is an exciting journey, but what happens when you have a furry family member to consider too? In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, Helen Thompson chats with Aileen Cronin, a seasoned Canine Behavior Consultant and founder of Baby Pack Leader.Aileen shares her expert advice on fostering safe and harmonious relationships between dogs and babies, drawn from over a decade of hands-on experience and her personal journey as a mother.Listen now to gain confidence in managing this exciting transition and start fostering a stronger connection between your baby and your beloved pet!

#175 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm chatting with Leanne Tran, a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist, to explore the early signs of ADHD and autism in infants.We discuss how to distinguish between typical developmental behaviors and potential red flags, offering practical, non-medication strategies to support your baby's growth.Leanne shares strategies and insights for creating a nurturing environment, such as observing patterns in a baby's preferences, adjusting routines, and understanding sensory sensitivities. Tune in to empower yourself with knowledge and confidence in your parenting journey.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/175.

#174 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, licensed mental health therapist Allison Ly shares her personal experiences as a second-generation immigrant and offers practical advice on setting boundaries as a new mum.Discover how to navigate cultural expectations, manage family dynamics, and prioritize self-care to prevent burnout. Tune in to learn strategies for fostering healthy relationships with your parents and in-laws while confidently embracing your own parenting style.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/174.

#173 - Is your newborn's relentless crying leaving you feeling helpless?In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, Helen Thompson, a seasoned childcare educator and baby massage instructor, delves into effective baby massage techniques designed to alleviate colic and soothe your little one. Discover how gentle touch can transform fussy moments into peaceful bonding experiences, bringing comfort to both you and your baby. Plus, don't miss out on Helen's free guide, '4 Simple Ways to Soothe Your Colicky Baby,' offering practical tips to ease your baby's discomfort.Tune in to learn how to bring tranquility back to your home. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/173.

#172 - In this episode, Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers joins First Time Mum's Chat to discuss sensitive but crucial conversations for moms with curious toddlers.Learn how to approach questions like “How are babies made?” and teach body autonomy without fear. Dr. Tina shares insights from her work on raising shame-free, confident kids, helping parents foster healthy, open communication. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable tips for creating a positive legacy for your little ones.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/172. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#171 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson interviews Garrett Wood Kusmierz, founder of Kozēkozē.Garrett shares how her personal challenges with postpartum breast milk leakage led her to create a sustainable, absorbent bra that provides comfort and ease for breastfeeding mums. Learn how her innovative approach can help you manage common postpartum issues like engorgement and leakage.If you're looking for practical, eco-friendly solutions to make your postpartum journey smoother, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in now for expert insights and Garrett's inspiring story.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/171. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#170 - Struggling to calm your baby or figure out their cues? You're not alone!In this special Q&A episode, I'll reveal the secrets behind baby massage — a powerful way to soothe fussy babies, improve sleep, and boost bonding.You'll get answers to common questions like are there any specific techniques to soothe and calm my baby and the best times to massage your baby. Whether you're a first-time mum or experienced, these tips could be your game changer!Hit play to learn techniques that will help your baby feel happier and more settled!Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/170. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

In this special Q&A episode of First Time Mum's Chat, Helen Thompson dives into your most pressing questions about postpartum depression and anxiety. Drawing on wisdom from previous episodes, Helen shares powerful excerpts from past interviews with experts and real mums who have experienced the ups and downs of early motherhood.Here's what you'll learn:

#168 - I think it's fair to say that many of us spend too much time comparing ourselves to others, often coming up short! A lot of first time mums that I speak with face this issue and it's easy to go in a downward spiral isn't it, particularly when you're getting started in your parenting journey.If you can relate to this, then you're going to find what Blanka Falk my guest in this episode has to say very interesting. Blanka is the host of the Renew Motherhood podcast and a mum of 4 located in Germany who faced her biggest challenge when child number 4 came along!During our chat you'll hear us talk about:-The importance of going within and getting in touch with your intuition.The importance of being 100% present for your baby and how it will help deepen the bond between you for life.Being honest and allowing yourself to be vulnerable and accepting that you don't always have the answers.And much more...Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/168. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#167 - In this episode, I'm talking with Sukie Baxter, an equestrian, entrepreneur, and healer who is deeply passionate about how we humans craft a vibrant and meaningful existence in our complex, imperfect world.We talk about anxiety and I'm sure that you'll find her take on this topic very interesting. During our chat you'll hear us talk about:-How being with animals and spending time in nature can help relieve states of anxiety or stress.The importance of becoming self aware, developing your internal compass and being in tune with your surroundings.The importance of developing sensory skills and being attuned to your body.Why it is so important to encourage movement in your little one and to challenge society's norms.And much more...Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/167. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#166 - In this episode, I'm bringing you the second of of two episodes with the amazing Austin Rees.Austin has been supporting families for more than 20 years and has a wide repertoire as a craniosacral Therapy Practitioner, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, a Licensed Massage Therapist, Babywearing Educator, as well as a TummyTime! Method TM Professional..Combining her expertise in lactation, babywearing, and craniosacral therapy, Austin is able to offer comprehensive care and support to families.During this episode you'll hear Austin share tips from her vast experience specifically around how she helps families faced with flathead in infants or a misshapen head.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/166. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#165 - In this episode. I'm chatting with author of the Bodywork Book Series, Susan Vaughan Kratz. Susan has 40 years of Occupational Therapy Experience and participates in clinical research of current innovative ways to assist her clients and families to overcome their difficulties. Her books offer real solutions that have helped real babies and real families and she routinely teaches these to parents seeking help with their little ones.During our chat you'll hear Susan talk about issues including torticollis, umbilical cord issues, digestion issues including colic, reflux and constipation.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/165. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#164 - In this episode, I'm chatting with Jess. Jess was so frustrated with a lot of the advice she received after becoming a first time mum that she decided to launch her own podcast to help support other mums!During our chat you'll hear Jess talk about her experiences during her early stages as a first time mum including:-Her biggest frustrations when she commenced her parenting journey.Two books which helped her understand her little one better and learn about co-sleeping.How massaging her daughter helped relax her and relieve some tummy issues.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/164. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#163 - In this episode, I'm bringing you the first of two episodes with the amazing Austin Rees.Austin has been supporting families for more than 20 years and has a wide repertoire as a craniosacral Therapy Practitioner, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, a Licensed Massage Therapist, Babywearing Educator, as well as a TummyTime! Method TM Professional..Combining her expertise in lactation, babywearing, and craniosacral therapy, Austin is able to offer comprehensive care and support to families.During this episode you'll hear Austin share tips from her vast experience specifically around how she helps families faced with infant tummy troubles and tummy time challenges.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/163. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#162 - In this episode, I'm bringing you an amazing woman, Suzzie Vehrs, who is a doula and childbirth educator.Suzzie is passionate about helping moms have a safe and healthy birth and she also helps mums after they return home, supporting them as they start to navigate their way through the world of parenting.During our chat you'll hear Suzzie talk about:-How she helps familiesWhy you shouldn't feel guilty or anxious reaching out for help and why it's so important to do soThe importance of valuing and looking after yourself and ensuring you are getting the nutrients you need.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/162. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#161 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat I'm doing something a little different, a question and answer (Q&A) session.I'm regularly asked questions by mums who are getting started in their parenting journey and I've assembled a number of questions that I'm often asked and posed them to a number of mums, many of whom I've spoken with on the podcast in the past. There are also several mums that I'm chatting with in coming episodes.During the episode, you'll hear questions and answers relating to topics including:-SleepTummy TimeGetting started as a parentPotty training.I hope to continue including regular Q&A episodes in the podcast, so please send me your questions!Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/161. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#160 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm re-visiting the area of baby/toddler sleep and I'm thrilled to be chatting with mum of 3, Occupational Therapist, certified Family and Infant Sleep Specialist and podcast host, Heather Boyd.Heather's baptism of fire with sleep challenges came with her eldest son, who had sleep challenges when he was a baby. Heather has worked with babies throughout her entire career as an occupational therapist, but she knew nothing about the sleep area and needed to work out how to support her son.During our chat you'll hear Heather talk about her journey and how she helps tired parents support their baby's sleep without sleep training using a holistic approach.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/160. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#159 - Just try to imagine for a moment commencing your parenting journey with 7 children aged less than 3 years of age to feed and look after! This is exactly what life delivered to this week's guest, Katie Ferraro!Katie had been struggling with feeding her first child only to discover that she was pregnant expecting quadruplets. Not surprisingly, her immediate worry was how was she going to feed another 4 needy little ones when she was struggling with just one!During our chat you'll hear Katie explain how she came across baby led weaning and utilized her background as a nutrition professor to develop her hundred first foods approach. You'll hear Katie share many great tips and insights during our interview including:-How a baby-led weaning approach will save you both money and timeHow baby-led weaning helps your baby to develop a foundational love of foodWhy snacks and too much milk are the biggest saboteurs of the toddler dietCheck out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/159. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#158 - In this episode I'm chatting with birth healing specialist and pelvic health physical therapist, Lynn Schulte. Lynn is on a mission to improve postpartum care worldwide and her passion is in helping moms have smoother births and faster recoveries.With more than 30 years experience, you'll hear Lynn talk about topics including:-What happens to the pelvic bones in order for a baby to be born and what keeps them from returning to their original position?How this affects the pelvic floor muscles?How can you strengthen your pelvic floor muscles after giving birth?Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/158. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#157 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm chatting with Dr. Emily Guarnotta. Dr. Emily is a licensed clinical psychologist specialising in maternal mental health and will shortly be launching an online practice aiming to reduce the barriers that mums often face when looking for support and therapy in areas such as postpartum anxiety or depression.During our chat you'll hear us talk about the challenges of returning to work after maternity leave, which is often a hard time of readjustment for mums.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/157.If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#156 - In this episode, I'm bringing you an amazing woman, ThetaHealer and mother of one, Emily Miotto. Emily helps moms work on themselves to release any limiting beliefs around motherhood and to connect with their inner selves to trust their intuition and heal both themselves and their little ones!During our chat, you'll hear Emily talk about:-Her postpartum depression journey and how understanding why she manifested it, helped break the cycle.Why your little one may be hypersensitive to everything happening around them and may have trouble sleeping.Why children coming into the world today are different and why moms need to do everything possible to support them as they grow up.Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/156.If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#155 - In this episode, I'm chatting with Tessia Watson, the author of the international bestselling book, Rejuvenated Mums Make Happy Kids who shares her journey into parenthood.Tessia is a big advocate for mums to create their support system to ensure they are well supported and to appreciate that "it takes a village to raise a child". The bottom line is that you can't do this journey alone!Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/155.If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#154 - I've spoken with a lot of great women on First Time Mum's who help families with their sleep but what's different about Kim Hawley who I'm chatting with today, is that her focus isn't just on helping your little one.She helps entire families, which is so important because we all need our sleep right!During our chat you'll hear Kim talk about how her holistic sleep support helps entire families optimise their daily routine, daily rhythms and environment to help improve sleep for all members of your household.Visit me here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast.If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#153 - Imagine being pregnant and being sick up to 15 - 20 times per day at times, with what you thought was morning sickness. This was the day to day struggle that physiotherapist and holistic health practitioner Jes Reynolds endured for the first 5 months of her pregnancy!During our chat you'll hear Jes talk about her frustrations with the medical system, feeling unsupported, facing endless appointments with specialists who could offer nothing to help her, finding nothing wrong and telling her just to accept it and get on with life!In desperation, Jes took matters into her own hands and using her grit and determination worked out how to deal with the root cause of these stubborn symptoms.Visit me here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast.If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

I've always been a big believer in getting into a regular routine of reading to children as soon as possible after they are born. This benefits their future development in many ways, and I've discussed this in a number of earlier episodes with some wonderful guests.Recently, I was fortunate enough to meet a wonderful woman on Instagram whose handle is Nanny Miss Monique. I was intrigued after listening to Miss Monique participate in a live titled 'It's Never Too Early To Start Reading To Your Baby'. I loved her passion, and I asked her if I could talk with her on First Time Mums Chat.I'm sure you'll find her passion as enthralling as I do and during our chat, I asked her what sort of books she would recommend to a mum with a baby aged from 0 - 6 months.In this episode, you'll hear her share tips on reading to your little one, including:-Suggestions on the types of books to read to your little one.Suggestions of some specific book titles that she reads to a toddler in her care, and the benefits and the smiles that she got from that toddler.What colours a book should contain for children of this age,And so, so, so much more.Visit me here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast.If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram. 

Welcome back to First Time Mum's Chat.I'm kicking off the year with a second chat with Kelly Durbin.Kelly is a mother of 2, lactation consultant, childbirth educator, author, and volunteer breastfeeding counselor and this week we'll be talking about how breastfeeding can enhance or protect a mother's health after giving birth.During the episode, you'll hear Kelly talk about:Why breastfeeding is so important and beneficial in helping heal the uterus after birth and decrease the likelihood of postpartum hemorrhages.How breastfeeding can reduce the risks of being diagnosed with diabetes later in life.How breastfeeding can lower the risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer.And much more...

This week, I am thrilled to be bringing you the 150th episode of First Time Mum's Chat. Please help me celebrate reaching this amazing milestone by sharing this episode with other mums. Way back in January 2021, when I started the First Time Mum's Chat podcast, I had a goal to help mums who were about to become parents or who had just entered the daunting world of parenthood by providing a weekly episode with information, tips and tricks and resources to help.I am proud of my track record over almost 3 years and looking back over the podcast, I've interviewed many wonderful women and let's not forget the handful of gents who have shared their expertise in a wide range of areas.

Recently, I was surprised to learn that in the USA and Australia, that the cesarean rate is in excess of 30%. So more than one third of moms will experience a cesarean! Of course when you add the other routine labor interventions this percentage goes up.I've wanted to talk with someone about how these routine labor interventions can cause problems for breastfeeding for some time and in this week's episode of First Time Mum's Chat I'm delighted to be chatting with mother of 2, lactation consultant, childbirth educator, author, and volunteer breastfeeding counselor, Kelly Durbin about this very topic!During our chat you'll hear Kelly talk about:-What routine labor interventions can cause problems for lactation?What happens when more than one intervention is used during a single birth experience, for the same mother.Lactation and breastfeeding don't seem to be related to the process of birth. How do labor interventions cause breastfeeding problems?And much more...

Helping expecting and first time mums prepare for what is ahead is my main goal of First Time Mum's Chat. This week's guest, Jessica Dawson is a mum who has been through it all. To help other mums who are about to embark on this journey, she published a book last month called 'Postpartum: The Expectations & Reality of the Fourth Trimester', which focuses on the often-overlooked fourth trimester.Jessica's experience was that there are lots of resources out there for what to expect during pregnancy and how to raise a child, but there's not a lot of resources out there for new moms on what they're going to experience in the first couple of days, weeks and months postpartum and she wanted to help mums to bridge this gap!Her book is a candid and compassionate guide that addresses the physical and emotional challenges that new moms face, offering practical advice, personal anecdotes, and expert insights to navigate this incredible journey with confidence.In this episode Jessica and I talk about her book which is the number 1 new release on Amazon for:-Pregnancy and child birth.Maternity and women's health.And breastfeeding.

Jill Wright has recently finished writing a book, Happy Healthy Wealthy and Wise, which launches later this week, which is the culmination of 20 years of work! It is geared towards anyone who wants to create a better life for themselves and is willing to do some work to get there.It is a collection of the most impactful and inspiring quotes, ideas, practices, habits, tactics, and strategies that Jill has come across in the past two decades and is intended to support people in improving their lives in any area where they need a bit of a boost.In this episode, you'll hear Jill talk about her book, her motivations for writing it and her exciting journey getting there.

In this week's episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm talking with certified Academic Language Practitioner, Sarah Scheldt about why it is important to talk to your baby.During our chat you'll hear Sarah talk about:-How you can start creating language development that leads to literacy development as early as the 3rd trimester of your pregnancy instead of waiting until after birth.Why you need to avoid the use of 'baby talk' and instead talk to your baby using your regular speech style.The importance of helping to develop their phonemic awareness using rhythms and melodies.The importance of encouraging your little one to develop their imagination to help them evolve into better problem solvers.And much more...

In this week's episode, I'm discussing the topic of postnatal depression with Lisa Quinney, a perinatal counsellor located in Melbourne, Australia.Lisa had her baptism of fire when her second daughter was born and she faced a few years of postnatal depression. Lisa now supports families so they don't have to go through what she did and you'll hear her talk about her journey including the importance of:-Being honest with yourself and recognising that you have a problem and not being afraid or shy to go and get the necessary help.Accepting that you have a lot to learn about being a parent and a mother and you are not perfect.Finding a supportive doctor who doesn't simply dismiss postnatal depression and tell you to "toughen up and get on with it!".And much more...

I'm sure you will agree that it's always valuable to have all the facts at your fingertips so you are prepared, so why should childbirth be any different? This week I'm discussing this with special guest Gina Mundy. Gina is an attorney that has specialised in childbirth cases for more than two decades. Gina wants to share mistakes that are made during labor and delivery with the world and has authored a book, drawing on her knowledge, to help parents prevent these mistakes and have a healthy baby. Gina has poured her heart and soul into her book which took more than one year to put together, with thousands of hours invested.During our chat you'll hear Gina talk about her book and the following topics that are covered:-The top 10 most common facts and issues in baby cases and how the drug Pitocin often plays a part.The importance of doing a birth plan to help you make better decisions which maybe necessary at a difficult, highly stressful time for mums.The importance of having someone who is there for you during this difficult time and able to make difficult decisions on your behalf if necessary.And much more...

In this week's episode of First Time Mum's Chat I'm talking about the importance of sleep to you as a parent. Yes, I'm focusing on you instead of your little one because you won't be at your best and able to be there 100% for your child if you are sleep deprived. Don't underestimate the importance of sleep because it refreshes your mind and repairs your body. During this episode I'll be sharing tips and ideas to support yourself to ensure you do not succumb to sleep exhaustion and/or sleep deprivation.

If you're fighting feelings of misery, hopelessness and despair and your little one is difficult to get to sleep, awake for hours at night, waking frequently or fighting sleep then this episode of First Time Mum's Chat is just for you!I'm chatting with sleep coach, mom-mentor, podcast host and mother of 5, Meredith Brough who shares her expertise on holistic sleep methods. Meredith has taken the best things out of the sleep training world and then totally meshed them in with the holistic world and has been referred to by her clients as the "Baby Sleep Whisperer".You'll hear Meredith share:-How she specialises in helping high needs, very challenging babies sleep well using a very peaceful loving approach, utilising tear free methods.What to look out for in your child that could indicate signs of a sleep disorder.Tips and advice for a parent who is transitioning their child into their own room.Tips on how to build sleep pressure for kids with conditions such as autism who often don't like to be touched or cuddled.And much, much more...

Your journey as a mum is often a stressful one, right! Well imagine to add to the stress and overwhelm of your new parenting journey, discovering that one of your children has Celiac disease! This is what mum of 2, registered nurse and natural health professional, Laura Tate faced in her parenting journey and she quickly needed to find ways to structure a life that met her family's health needs.During our chat, you'll hear Laura talk about her journey and the challenges she and her family faced, very much from the coal face and how she structured a life to accommodate them all including:-Tips and symptoms to look out for to help identify whether your little one has G.I. (gastrointestinal tract) issues.Suggestions on a range of celiac friendly flours and ingredients that are must haves for your larder for their diet.The massive adjustment that you need to make in your home environment to ensure that they cannot ingest gluten.And much more...

When it comes to building a bond with your little one, then a great way for you to do this is by introducing them to the water early on. In this week's episode I'm chatting with Jo Wilson. Jo is the founder of the child-development program in water; Aqua Sensory, and is a Developmental Play Practitioner, Aquatic Tutor and author.Jo is passionate about what she does and during our chat, you'll hear her share some great tips and insights including:-Why you need to ensure that 100% of your attention is on your little one whilst they are in the water and why multitasking mustn't occur.Tips on how to tell when your baby is ready to explore the water further.Why it's extremely important to understand your baby's cues and behaviors so you can pick up on their subtle cues.And much more...

A lot of the parents that I talk to via my baby massage classes, ask me whether everything is going as it should with their little one's development. I've been on the lookout for an expert to talk to who knows their stuff when it comes to baby development and in this week's episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm chatting with Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Munira Adenwalla.Munira talks about how she helps babies to be able to get in and out of positions so they are comfortable with their bodies and explains how she contributes to their development by helping with all the little movements required to get up to sitting, standing and eventually crawling and walking.During our chat you'll hear us talk about:-Why it's so important not to rush your baby to be doing their developmental milestones and let them take their own time.How a pediatric occupational therapist can help when babies are not meeting their developmental milestones or when your gut feeling is telling you that something isn't right.How a pediatric occupational therapist helps babies that are struggling with coming into sitting and crawling positions and to be more comfortable, relieving tension in their bodies.And so much more....

This week on First Time Mum's Chat I'm talking about comfort and pain relief in birth with birth and postpartum doula, Janet Purcell.Janet shares some excellent tips from her wealth of experience and if you are pregnant or in the family planning stages, then I highly recommend listening. You'll hear her share:-How devices such as TENS machines, birthing combs and acupressure balls help trigger non-painful stimuli to help distract your brain away from focusing on your uterus.How to use the force of gravity to make the whole birthing process easier and more comfortable.Suggestions on what your birth environment should look like and why it's so crucial to get this right.The importance of choosing the right birth partner to ensure you get that all important 100% unconditional support when you're giving birth.And so much more...

In this week's episode, I'll be focusing on the topics of healthy eating and raising your children in a healthy nurturing environment.You'll hear me talk about:-The dangers of feeding your family processed food and caffeinated drinks.Ways to encourage more family time and to avoid screen time during meal times.Why role playing is so vital when it comes to setting your children on the road to a lifetime of healthy eating.How you can avoid and reduce the risk of overeating and obesity by encouraging healthy eating habits.And so, so much more...

I'm regularly asked by mums for advice on potty training and I've been on the lookout for an expert in this area. If you're looking for help with potty training then you won't want to miss this week's episode.I'm chatting with Kaley Medina who is a pediatric sleep consultant and Certified Potty Training Consultant. Kaley has developed a quick and really effective method to get children potty trained and during our chat you'll hear us talk about:-The 2 different methods of potty training and which one is recommended due to its general quick turnaround time.The number one reason that parents fail with potty training and how to avoid making this mistake.At what age should you commence potty training your little one.The 3 problems that you will encounter if you promise your child rewards for using their potty.And much more...

Matrescence which is the process of becoming a mother, is a difficult time for many women and occurs each and every time we have a child! For many of the mums I speak with, it often leads to feelings including disconnect, grief and self-doubt.For many this is a highly challenging time as bodies, hormones and brains change.This week's guest, Kirryn Lee, is a Matrescence Mentor, Energy Coach, mother of two and host of the Matrescence Awakening podcast.During our chat you'll hear Kirryn talk about:-The importance of putting yourself first as well as looking after you, so you can be fully there for your family.How she helps moms connect again to who they are in this new season of their life.The importance of releasing friendships that no longer serve you so you are ready to welcome in new friendships and connections.And much more...

I've spoken with a number of wonderful women on First Time Mum's Chat who help women during their fourth trimester including lactation consultants and doulas and this week's guest, Dr. Cindy Rubin is a general pediatrician, international board certified lactation consultant and breastfeeding medicine specialist.Dr. Cindy has taken the step to operate her practice outside the US insurance system so that she can provide quality care without the clock constantly ticking!During our chat you'll hear Dr. Cindy talk about:-The many benefits of having a pediatrician who visits your home during the 4th trimester which for many moms is a particularly challenging time.An explanation on the causes of biting during breastfeeding and ways to help ease this.What she offers parents in the Chicagoland area during the first 6 weeks after your little one is born.And much more...