Episodes
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#199 - Baby walkers, jumpers, and exersaucers are some of the most popular baby devices on the market — but are they really helping your little one learn to stand and walk, or could they be holding them back? In this episode, Helen Thompson breaks down the surprising truths many parents never hear about how these devices impact a baby’s hips, posture, balance, and overall development.
Drawing on more than 20 years of experience and her recent work with six-month-old twins, Helen gently explains why babies placed in upright positions before their bodies are ready often develop compensations like knee-locking, toe-walking, back-arching, and delayed milestones. You’ll hear why these devices aren’t “bad” — but why awareness matters, and how simple movements like rolling, wriggling, tummy time, and floor play build the strongest foundations for confident walking later on.
Whether you already use baby gear like jumpers or you’re thinking of buying one, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance to help you support your baby’s natural development in a safe and empowering way.
Helen also shares a special end-of-year update — including an exciting announcement about the upcoming 200th episode — and invites you to reflect on the key question of this episode: “Is my baby’s body truly ready for the positions these devices put them in?”
Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/199.
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#198 - If bedtime has started to feel stressful, tense, or full of tears (for you and your baby), you’re definitely not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 gentle soothing techniques that can help your baby feel safe, settle more easily, and relax into calmer, happier nights.
You’ll learn:
How to read your baby’s cues so you can support them before overwhelm hitsA simple jawline + toe reflexology routine to ease teething and tensionHow to use your breath and voice to help your baby regulateA calming back massage story that brings emotional grounding and connectionWhy your calm is the key ingredient — even when settling takes timeIf you’re ready to bring a little more peace into your evenings and feel more confident soothing your baby, this episode will help you build rhythms that truly support both of you.
👉 Show notes: mybabymassage.net/podcast/198
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Missing episodes?
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If you’ve ever stood in a baby store aisle thinking, “Which stroller is actually right for me?” — you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing 7 smart questions that every first-time mum should ask before buying a baby stroller, so you can avoid the overwhelm and choose one that truly fits your lifestyle.
You’ll learn:
✅ How to find a stroller that matches your day-to-day routine — not just what looks good in the shop
✅ Simple ways to save money and skip costly “must-have” mistakes
✅ How to balance comfort, safety, and practicality without feeling pressured by trends
If you’re ready to feel confident about your stroller choice and enjoy those first walks with your baby feeling calm and stress-free, this episode will help you shop smarter and spend wiser.
👉 Check out the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/197.
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If you’ve ever stared at a baby shopping list wondering, “Do I really need all this?” — you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing the 5 baby essentials I truly love and recommend for those first few months, plus the 4 popular items that usually just collect dust.
You’ll learn:
How to simplify your shopping list without missing what matters mostThe key baby items that make daily life calmer and easierCommon “must-haves” that end up forgotten after a few weeksIf you’re ready to save money, reduce clutter, and focus on what really helps you and your baby thrive, this episode will help you start small and stress less.
Check out the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/196.
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Discover three simple but powerful techniques that can transform your day-to-day with a newborn. In this episode, I talk with Hannah Eccles of Oscha Slings about how smart sling choices, safety tweaks, and wearing practices can calm fussiness, enhance bonding, and give you more freedom (yes, your hands back!).
You’ll learn:
Which fabric types help regulate baby’s temperatureHow to use positioning to soothe reflux or unsettled momentsConfidence-boosting tips for first-time mums just starting outIf you’ve ever wondered “Will a sling really help me survive the early days?”, this is your answer. Tune in and walk away with real, actionable hacks you can try today.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/195.
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Are your white noise infant habits helping — or secretly wrecking sleep? I break down 5 costly mistakes with white noise sleep sounds and sound machines—and the quick fixes that make nights calmer, safer, and easier. Which one are you making?
You’ll learn:
The safe volume & distance rule that protects little earsWhen to use white noise—and when to switch it offA gentle 7-night fade to reduce dependence without tearsThe sleep sounds that soothe (and the ones that disrupt)How to avoid timer-click wake-ups and midnight panicIf this helped, follow the show and share it with a tired mom — every play supports the podcast.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/194.
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Should you use a dummy for your newborn — or is there a gentler way to soothe them? In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I’m exploring 7 shocking downsides of newborn dummies and sharing simple, calming alternatives that really work.
You’ll learn:
Why over-reliance on dummies can delay self-soothing and even affect speech.How newborn dummies can become a habit that’s tricky to break later.Gentle, sensory-rich strategies — from music to baby massage — that help your baby feel safe and settled without depending on a dummy.Whether you call it a dummy or a pacifier, you’ll discover practical tools to comfort your baby and build lasting connection right from the start.
👉 If you’ve ever wondered how to ease your infant without relying on dummies, this episode is packed with ideas to help you feel calmer and more confident.
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of First Time Mum’s Chat. For links and resources mentioned, check the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/193.
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Ever wondered how to nurture sibling love without the sibling rivalry—or the tears? In this heartwarming episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, we share 5 powerful, practical steps you can take today to foster bonding newborn and toddler… and yes, you’ll do it without tears!
We dive into:
Creating a special helper role that makes your toddler feel big and importantEstablishing a comforting big sibling routine filled with predictability and funPreparing them emotionally with engaging stories and baby-inclusive ritualsEncouraging toddler-friendly bonding moments during baby careCelebrating their growing role and validating big emotions—without overwhelmThese positive steps for sibling bonding are gently explained, joyous, and especially designed for real-life family rhythms.
Whether you're desperate to ease toddler jealousy or simply seeking stress-free ways to bond your toddler with your infant, this episode is your roadmap to a loving, harmonious home.
Hit play to support your toddler in becoming the confident, caring big sibling they were born to be.
Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/192.
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Feeling unsure about your feeding choices? You’re not alone. In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I share 5 pieces of infant feeding advice to help you let go of guilt and feel more confident — whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding, combo feeding, or still figuring it out.
We’ll bust some of the most common and harmful myths about feeding your baby, including why “breastfeeding is natural so it should be easy” isn’t the whole story, and why flexibility in feeding is a strength, not a weakness. You’ll walk away with clarity, reassurance, and practical tips you can use right now.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
5 infant feeding myths that cause unnecessary guiltWhy both breast and bottle feeding can build deep bondsHow to respond when pain or challenges ariseThe truth about switching feeding methodsHow to focus on presence, love, and connection over methodWhether you’re navigating newborn days or adjusting feeding routines, this episode will help you breathe easier and trust yourself more. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/191.
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#190 - Discover the real, sometimes brutal truths behind the breastfeeding journey:
Why pain, guilt & exhaustion don’t mean you’re “doing it wrong”What cluster feeding does to your mind and bodyThe hidden emotional toll few talk aboutSecret hacks that saved mum’s sanity 🍼If you’ve ever wondered “Is breastfeeding supposed to hurt?”, this feels like a supportive chat with your best friend. Press play to learn what they never warned you—and find comfort, community & clarity. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/190.
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#189 - Feeling judged for how you're feeding your baby — or second-guessing every decision? You’re not alone.
In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I explore 5 common infant feeding difficulties that far too many mums face in silence — from painful breastfeeding and bottle-feeding guilt, to lack of support, emotional overwhelm, and the pressure to get it “right.”
You’ll hear:
Why “fed is best” isn’t always enough to ease mum guiltWhat helped one mum finally feel relief after switching to formulaHow to push back against judgment (internal and external)Reassurance that your baby being nourished and loved is what matters mostWhether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding, doing both — or still figuring it out — this episode is a gentle reminder that your journey deserves compassion, not criticism.
Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/189.
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#188 - Is your toddler out of control — throwing meltdowns, resisting transitions, or bouncing off the walls with no off switch? You're not alone, and there is a way through it that doesn’t involve yelling, bribing, or giving up.
In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I’m sharing 5 genius reset routines that help bring calm, connection, and cooperation back into your day. These are real tools I’ve used time and again in my years of childcare — from playful tidy-up dances to Brain Gym-style movements that soothe both overstimulated toddlers and frazzled mums.
You’ll hear personal stories, simple strategies, and why movement — not control — is often the key to shifting chaos into calm. Whether you're dealing with toddler tantrums, daily resistance, or just need a reset of your own, this episode is packed with ideas to help you both thrive.
🎧 Press play to discover how to turn meltdowns into moments of joy — using these 5 genius reset routines for toddlers.
Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/188.
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#187 - Is your baby taking their first wobbly steps—or still hesitating to let go of your hand? In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, we explore what really helps babies move from unsure to unstoppable… without rushing them.
You’ll discover:
7 gentle strategies to encourage walking confidenceWhy rhythm and repetition work wonders for coordinationWhen to step in—and when to lovingly let goHow music and movement support emotional growthReal-life stories to reassure and inspire your parenting journeyHost Helen Thompson, baby massage instructor and early childhood educator, shares her personal experiences and practical tips to help you support your little one with calm, confidence, and connection.
Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/187.
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#186 - Is your baby starting to pull up, cruise along furniture, or bounce to music? In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I explore how rhythm, song, and simple play can help your baby build balance and confidence—without rushing those big milestones.
I share one of my favorite nannying stories that shows just how magical movement and music can be in supporting your little one’s development. Whether they’re wobbling, swaying, or clapping mid-walk, these joyful moments matter.
🎶 Tune in to discover playful ways to support your baby’s next steps—with connection, rhythm, and calm. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/186.
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#185 - Is your baby showing signs of rolling over? Discover three simple, expert-backed techniques to support and encourage this vital developmental milestone.
From rhythmic play to gentle massage, learn how to make your baby's journey to rolling both fun and effective. Tune in now to empower your baby's growth with confidence! Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/185.
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#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.
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#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.
💡 You’ll learn:
What your baby’s gaze, grimace, and coos are telling youWhy picking up your baby when they cry builds trust, not “spoiling”How a baby’s sense of smell deepens attachmentWhy singing the right song can soothe even the most distressed newbornWhat it truly means to “dance” in tune with your baby's cuesWhether you’re navigating sleepless nights or wondering how to connect more deeply with your little one, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, reassured, and seen.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/183.
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#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.
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#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 one
I’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!
🎧 Hit play and start tuning into your baby’s amazing ways of communicating!
Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/181.
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#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.
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