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.

💡 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.

#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.

👉 Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/179.

#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.

👉 Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/178.

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! 🎧✨

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/176

#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.