#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 body
• The hidden emotional toll few talk about
• Secret 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.

#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 guilt
• What helped one mum finally feel relief after switching to formula
• How to push back against judgment (internal and external)
• Reassurance that your baby being nourished and loved is what matters most

Whether 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.

#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.

#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 confidence
• Why rhythm and repetition work wonders for coordination
• When to step in—and when to lovingly let go
• How music and movement support emotional growth
• Real-life stories to reassure and inspire your parenting journey

Host 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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

💡 You’ll learn:

• What your baby’s gaze, grimace, and coos are telling you
• Why picking up your baby when they cry builds trust, not “spoiling”
• How a baby’s sense of smell deepens attachment
• Why singing the right song can soothe even the most distressed newborn
• What it truly means to “dance” in tune with your baby's cues

Whether 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.

#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 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.