As your baby grows, most parents experience a significant shift in identity, relationships, and daily routines. In this episode we discuss the challenges of 'managing the juggle' as life moves on and many of us need to return to work (and life). Often referred to as the "forgotten period," our guest, Child Health Nurse Penny explores the reality of the mental load and the common feeling of losing one's sense of self during this intense period of change.The conversation offers practical strategies for managing expectations, maintaining relationships and building confidence in new routines while dealing with big emotions. Key concepts include letting go of perfection and embracing the power of "good enough".

#Resources:📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast:

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA

Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

Timecodes:

(00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgement of Country.

(00:54) Meet Penny: 35 years of experience in the perinatal and parenting field.

(01:50) The Transition: Understanding the shift from "me" to "we".

(03:15 The Identity Shift: Navigating the "lost" feeling in early parenthood.

(05:25) Communication is Key: How to talk to your partner about the invisible load.

(08:10) The Support Network: Why it's okay (and necessary) to ask for help.

(11:05) Expectations vs. Reality: Letting go of the "perfect" image.

(14:30) Managing the Mental Load: Strategies for shared responsibility.

(18:15) Self-Care and Compassion: Recharging your own battery.

(21:40) Returning to Work: Navigating the emotions and logistics of the "double juggle".

(25:10) Childcare and Separation: Building confidence in new routines.

(29:30) Maintaining Relationships: Finding time for connection beyond the baby.

(33:15) The Power of "Good Enough": Embracing the mess and the learning curve.

(35:20) Closing: Information on the Ngala Parenting Line.

Follow Ngala 🌐Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

Produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe.

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

#parenting #parentingtips #baby #parenthood #ngala #grossmotordevelopment #podcast #perthparents #parents

In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, we sit down with Darya, a Registered Psychologist, to understand social and emotional development in infants. While physical milestones like crawling often get the most attention, Darya explains that a baby’s emotional growth is the "foundation of everything", shaping how they learn, relate to others, and manage their feelings.The discussion focuses on the power of "serve and return" interactions, the simple back-and-forth exchanges that build a baby's brain. We dive into why being a "responsive" parent doesn't mean being perfect, how to navigate the challenges of separation anxiety, and why your baby's "difficult" behaviours are actually important forms of communication. This episode offers practical, evidence-informed guidance for the first year and beyond.

Resources:📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast:Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

Timecodes:

(00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgement of Country

(01:05) Meet Darya: Registered psychologist.(01:44) Defining Social and Emotional Development: The foundation of future learning.

(02:54) Serve and Return: How simple interactions build baby's brain architecture.

(03:52) The Role of Connection: Why babies need safe, predictable relationships.

(05:08) The "Good Enough" Parent: Why you only need to be responsive 30–50% of the time.

(07:03) Repairing the Connection: The importance of making up after a "mismatch".

(08:03) Social Milestones: From the first smile to recognising familiar faces.

(09:27) Separation Anxiety: Understanding the "stranger danger" phase as a sign of healthy attachment.

(11:06) Developing Emotional Regulation: How parents help babies "co-regulate".

(12:50) Decoding Behaviour: Looking at what is "under the hood" of a baby's distress.

(14:34) Self-Care for Parents: Why your own emotional well-being is the best tool for your baby.

(16:03) When to Seek Help: Identifying "red flags" and trusting your gut.

(17:40) Final Tips: Keeping it simple with eye contact, touch, and presence.

(18:21) Closing Thoughts: Contacting the Ngala Parenting Line.

Follow Ngala 🌐Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/Facebook

🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/LinkedIn

🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

Produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe.

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

#parenting #parentingtips #baby #parenthood #ngala #grossmotordevelopment #podcast #perthparents #parents

From the first time a newborn grips your finger to the complex coordination required to use a spoon, fine motor development is a fascinating journey of "brain-to-hand" connection. In this episode, Jen and Hannah sit down to explore how small movements in the hands and fingers lay the foundation for a child's independence.We discuss the transition from involuntary reflexes to "volitional" reaching and why "tummy time" is actually a secret weapon for hand strength. Whether you're curious about why your baby is suddenly obsessed with picking up tiny "carpet fluff" or wondering how to introduce cutlery without the stress, this episode provides practical, play-based insights for every stage of early childhood.

Resources:

📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:

(00:00) Intro: The "beige baby" trend and the importance of colour and books

(01:25) Defining fine motor skills: Hands, feet, and mouth

(02:00) The newborn grasp reflex vs. intentional reaching

(03:30) The "scratching" phase

(04:10) The magic pincer grip

(05:15) Activity ideas: Steamed peas, tissue boxes, and board books

(06:40) Mouth muscles: The connection between solids and babbling

(08:00) Language milestones: From single syllables to first words

(09:10) Why echoing your baby's sounds is better than asking questions

(10:15) Vision development: From grey scale to full-colour tracking

(11:45) The "distracted" phase: Why babies become swivel-heads at 6 months

(13:50) Recommendations on screens and environmental stimulation

(14:20) Vision red flags: What parents should look out for

(16:05) Melatonin and the 4-month sleep progression

(17:40) Using morning and afternoon light to support circadian rhythms

(18:55) The problem-solving approach to parenting

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

Welcome back to Season Two of Parenting with Ngala! Join Hannah, a registered Occupational Therapist, and Jen, a Nurse and Midwife, as they discuss the challenges of the transition period between having a newborn to having a little person.In episode 1, we focus on Gross Motor Development, the big changes that happen as your baby begins exploring the world. From the "workout" of tummy time to those precious (and often shaky) first steps, we discuss what to expect and how to support your little one’s journey.Resources:

📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:

(00:00) Welcome

(01:32) Why Gross Motor Matters

(03:33) Tummy Time Basics

(05:16) Tummy Time Tips

(10:37) Rolling and Swaddling

(15:19) Crawling Variations

(16:17) Movement Styles and Temperament

(17:39) When to Seek Advice

(18:27) Baby Proofing Your Home

(20:49) Pulling to Stand Basics

(21:53) Helping Baby Get Down

(24:27) First Steps Timeline

(26:11) Falls Comfort and Trust

(26:56) Fine Motor Next Episode

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, hosts Jen and Hannah speak with Keith from the Ngala DadsWA program on the important role partners play. We explore the significant role of partners in their child's development, both antenatally and postnatally. Keith discusses the importance of early involvement, the unique contributions Dads bring to parenting, and practical ways to support partners. The episode also delves into the mental health challenges Dads may face and offers advice on seeking help and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Resources:

DadsWA: https://www.ngala.com.au/resources/online-tips-resources-information-for-dads/📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Importance of Active Fatherhood

01:10 Meet Keith: A Veteran in Fatherhood Programs

03:04 The Role of Fathers in Child Development

05:32 Supporting Mums: A Key Role for Dads

08:22 Encouraging Proactive Parenting

12:29 Building Confidence in New Dads

13:56 Antenatal Period: Preparing for Fatherhood

16:04 Understanding Mutual Gaze and Baby Communication

16:43 Practical Tips for Engaging with Your Baby

18:10 Supporting Your Partner Post-Birth

19:15 The Importance of Bonding and Attachment

21:31 Balancing Work and Parenting

23:00 Recognising and Addressing Dad's Stress

25:13 Mental Health and Wellbeing for Dads

32:29 Connecting with Other Dads

33:53 Conclusion and Resources

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, hosts Jen and Hannah speak with Ngala clinical psychologist and mum, Divyah, to discuss the mental health challenges and adjustments that come with parenthood. Learn about the significance of understanding intrusive thoughts, balancing the invisible mental load, and the importance of self-care. Divyah shares practical tools for managing stress, grounding yourself, and maintaining your emotional wellbeing.

Resources:

Ngala Mental Health Resources: https://www.ngala.com.au/resources/all/mental-health/📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: Understanding Thoughts

00:41 Meet Divyah: Adjusting to Parenthood

01:23 The Baby and Someone: Caregiver's Role

03:48 Common Parental Concerns

07:23 Intrusive Thoughts Explained

10:58 OCD and Postpartum Psychosis

16:25 Tools for Managing Intrusive Thoughts

19:59 Self-Care for New Parents

26:45 Conclusion and Resources

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, join hosts Jen and Hannah as they speak with Charlotte, a Ngala Child Health Nurse and parent of three, to discuss the vital role feeding plays in bonding with your baby. The conversation covers the benefits of skin-to-skin contact for both mothers and fathers, the importance of trusting parental instincts, and the different ways to create a nurturing and distraction-free feeding environment. They also touch on safety considerations, such as the dangers of prop feeding, and share tips for recognising and responding to your baby's feeding cues.

Resources:

Australian Breastfeeding Association: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Skin-to-Skin Bonding

00:42 Feeding as a Bonding Experience

01:21 Meet Charlotte: Child Health Nurse

02:04 The Importance of Skin-to-Skin Contact

04:58 Creating a Calm Feeding Environment

09:35 Safety Tips for Feeding Your Baby

11:32 Challenges of Feeding Babies

12:07 Ideal Baby Position for Bottle Feeding

13:12 Recognising and Responding to Baby's Cues

15:32 Trusting Your Instincts as a Parent

19:17 Bonding Activities Beyond Feeding

22:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, join hosts Jen and Hannah as they speak with Angela, a seasoned Ngala Child Health Nurse and Midwife, to explore what crying means for babies, why it happens, and how parents can effectively handle it. Angela shares her in-depth knowledge and practical advice from 26 years of experience, discussing everything from the definition of 'sleeping through the night' to understanding different types of cries. This episode also touches on important topics such as the significance of a supportive parenting network, responsive settling techniques, and the impact of stress on both parents and babies.

Resources:

https://www.ngala.com.au/resources/settling-your-crying-baby/

📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: The Myth of Sleeping Through the Night

00:54 Meet Angela: Experience and Background

02:24 Understanding Baby Crying: Communication and

Patterns

05:50 Coping with Crying: Tips and Advice

09:54 When to Seek Help: Postnatal Depression and Professional Support

10:44 Recognising Different Types of Cries

15:05 The Witching Hour: Evening Crying Explained

19:36 Settling and Soothing Techniques

21:42 Ditching the Swaddle: When and Why

22:15 Swaddling Alternatives and Baby Gear

23:26 Burping and Wind Relief Techniques

24:25 The Magic of Bath Time

26:09 Managing Car Rides and Baby Stress

28:43 Tag Team Parenting: Sharing the Load

33:30 Responsive Settling vs. Controlled Crying

35:37 Engaging with Your Baby: Communication Tips

38:20 Adapting to Your Baby's Unique Needs

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, hosts Jen and Hannah are joined by Beth, a registered nurse with a background in perinatal and infant mental health. Together, they discuss the common challenges new parents face with newborn sleep. The conversation covers the lack of structure, the variability of newborn temperament, and practical advice for managing unsettledness and sleep routines. The episode also emphasises the importance of seeking help and using everyday tools to create a comforting environment for both parent and baby. 

Resources:

https://rednose.org.au/resources/safe-sleeping-guide-for-parents/https://www.ngala.com.au/resources/all/sleep-and-settling/

📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:00:00 Understanding Baby Temperament

00:58 Introducing Our Guest Expert

01:36 Common Sleep Challenges for Newborns

03:35 Coping Strategies for New Parents

04:45 Support Systems and Sleep

10:06 Recognising Baby's Sleep Cues

12:32 Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

15:58 Dealing with Sleep Struggles

24:19 Final Thoughts and Resources

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, hosts Hannah and Jen are joined by child health nurse Kate to discuss newborn sleep. They delve into common patterns and the variability of newborn sleep behaviour, emphasising the concept of the fourth trimester and the importance of creating a womb-like environment. The conversation covers effective settling techniques, the relevance of the circadian rhythm, and how to respond to your baby's needs. Parents are encouraged to understand that newborn sleep can be unpredictable but is a temporary phase. 

Resources:

https://rednose.org.au/resources/safe-sleeping-guide-for-parents/

📞 Need more help? For those in Western Australia, you can call the Ngala Parenting Line on 08 9368 9368 for free expert support from our team.

Follow the Podcast

Subscribe: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@UCctvj5LUZ1eAzSErNAmAvxA Website: 🔗 https://www.ngala.com.au/

--------------------------------------

Follow Ngala

Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/

Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/

LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=au

--------------------------------------

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Newborn Sleep Challenges

00:57 Meet the Expert: Kate's Background

01:46 Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns

02:36 Feeding and Sleep: The Connection

04:27 Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

06:21 Parental Competency and Learning

06:52 Safe Sleep Practices and Recommendations

12:51 Noisy Newborns: Understanding Baby Sleep Sounds

13:39 REM Sleep Explained: Why Babies Wake Up Easily

15:01 The Fourth Trimester: Creating a Womb-Like Environment

15:47 Settling Techniques: Helping Your Baby Sleep

16:48 Responsiveness: Building Trust with Your Baby

17:35 Parenting Challenges: Balancing Attention with Older Children

19:37 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents

21:23 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Parenthood

--------------------------------------

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK