Growing Little Humans

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we are joined by Safe Sleep expert Natalie van Winckel to explore the essentials of safe sleep for babies and toddlers, including how much rest they need and tips for establishing healthy sleep routines at home. We discuss methods for helping babies fall asleep, the debate between crying it out and self-soothing, and when to expect your little one to sleep through the night. Plus, we touch on SIDS prevention and how educators at The Wishing Tree work with parents to maintain sleep consistency between home and childcare. Tune in for expert insights to support restful nights for your little ones! 

Join us in this episode of Growing Little Humans as Kitchen Garden and Early Learning specialist Maree Knock helps us uncover the many ways kitchen gardens benefit young children. From introducing STEM concepts to fostering a love for sustainability and the environment, gardening offers hands-on learning that supports overall education and growth. We discuss how kitchen gardens encourage kids to explore new foods, the importance of safe practices, and the role of guided risky play. Our guest shares heartwarming stories from their experiences with children in garden settings, showcasing the joy and lessons that grow from the soil. Tune in for inspiration to cultivate green thumbs and curious minds! 

In today’s episode, we are joined by Tania Johnson from the Institute of Child Psychology to discuss separation anxiety in children. We explore how this common issue affects young children and the signs to look out for. Tania shares valuable insights on how parents and caregivers can support children through this challenging stage, offering practical strategies to ease their anxiety. Tune in for expert advice on fostering emotional resilience and helping children feel secure during transitions. 

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Dr Sanobia Palkhiwala joins us to unpack the magic of play and its vital role in childhood development. What’s the difference between play and play-based learning? Why is it more than just fun and games? We address these questions and explore how structured play supports learning, creativity, and social skills.

We’ll discuss ways parents can support meaningful play at home, what play might look like in different settings, and how play-based learning lays a strong foundation for the transition to formal schooling. Plus, we tackle common questions: Will my child really play all day in an early learning setting? Why is this better than just staying home? Tune in to learn why play is one of the most powerful tools in early education!

In our first episode, meet your hosts, Lea and Mel — mums, entrepreneurs, and early learning enthusiasts passionate about helping families thrive. Discover what Growing Little Humans is all about, why we started, and how we’ll tackle the big questions parents face. From emotional growth to developmental milestones, we’re here to help you give your kids the best start. Let’s grow, learn, and laugh together!