On this week’s episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we delve into parenting with purpose for the New Year. Meg Faure and guest Tove Gant explore how small, compassionate changes can transform parenting in 2025. Together, they offer strategies for creating intentional parenting resolutions that prioritize both self-care and connection with children. This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to thrive, not just survive, in the year ahead. Moving from Resolutions to Intentions Meg and Tove discuss the pressure traditional resolutions create for parents. They advocate for replacing resolutions with flexible, compassionate intentions. Intentions focus on achievable goals while acknowledging life’s unpredictability. This shift fosters a more forgiving and empowering mindset for parents. The Four Buckets of Intentions Meg introduces four key areas for parenting intentions in 2025: Self-Care and Mindfulness: Parents are encouraged to schedule one act of self-care weekly to recharge and avoid burnout. Fostering Connection with Children: Intentional activities, such as reading together or prioritizing screen-free car rides, strengthen parent-child bonds. Positive and Patient Mindset: Techniques like speaking “low and slow” during stressful moments help parents model calm behavior. Healthy Boundaries and Routines: Establishing consistent routines, such as family dinners or limiting screen time, creates structure for children. Embracing Imperfection and Repairing Relationships The hosts emphasize that perfect parenting is unattainable. Instead, they highlight the value of repairing relationships when mistakes occur. Parents should aim for "good enough" parenting, as it builds resilience and teaches valuable life skills. Strengthening Partnerships A strong partnership between parents benefits the entire family. Meg shares practical ways to prioritize time with a partner, from shared hobbies to meaningful communication strategies. This episode inspires parents to approach the New Year with purpose and compassion. Listeners will gain practical tools to set achievable parenting intentions and strengthen family connections. Tune in to discover how small changes can lead to a more joyful and intentional parenting journey in 2025.

On this week's episode of Sense by Meg Faure, we tackle a vital topic: preventing baby allergies. Joined by Dr. Claudia Gray, a Cape Town-based pediatrician specializing in allergies, Meg explores actionable ways parents can reduce the risk of allergies in their little ones. The episode provides expert insights, from pregnancy through weaning, to help parents navigate the complexities of allergy prevention. With practical advice and evidence-based tips, this discussion is essential for any parent concerned about their baby’s health and well-being. 1. Understanding Allergies Dr. Claudia Gray explains what allergies are and how they result from the immune system’s improper response to harmless substances. She highlights genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors that contribute to the rise of allergies. 2. Pregnancy and Allergy Prevention Parents are advised not to eliminate allergens during pregnancy, as it does not reduce the risk of allergies. Claudia emphasizes the importance of eating a balanced diet and possibly including oily fish or omega supplements for added protection. 3. Weaning and Early Allergen Introduction Introducing allergens between 4-6 months is critical in reducing the likelihood of developing food allergies. Claudia shares guidance on safely incorporating foods like peanut butter and eggs into a baby’s diet. She also stresses seeking professional advice if the baby shows signs of severe eczema or allergy risks. 4. Managing Eczema to Reduce Allergy Risks Claudia calls eczema an "allergy emergency" due to its role in allowing allergens to penetrate the skin. She discusses effective skin care, including moisturizers and anti-inflammatory treatments, to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce risks. 5. The Role of the Gut and Skin Microbiome Claudia explores the importance of the gut and skin microbiomes in developing a healthy immune system. Recommendations include breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, and introducing a wide variety of foods to support gut health. This episode equips parents with evidence-based strategies to prevent allergies and navigate early signs of potential risks. With actionable advice and expert insights, listeners gain confidence in managing their baby’s health. Tune in to Sense by Meg Faure for a practical guide to reducing allergy risks and building a strong foundation for your child’s future well-being.

On this week’s episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we reconnect with Julia and her 21-weeks-old daughter.  Explore the exciting milestones of this developmental stage. From rolling over to engaging smiles, Aurelia’s journey offers valuable lessons for parents. Meg and Julia discuss sensory personalities, the transition to solids, and practical sleep strategies, providing tools to support confident and joyful parenting. Developmental Milestones at 21 Weeks Aurelia has transitioned from the newborn "blob stage" to actively engaging with her surroundings. She has mastered rolling, an essential milestone for motor and cognitive development. Meg explains how rolling strengthens the brain’s corpus callosum, vital for coordination and communication. Understanding Sensory Personalities Julia shares her observations of Aurelia’s emerging social butterfly traits. Social butterflies seek sensory and social interactions, often showing interest in new people and environments.Meg highlights the importance of identifying sensory personalities for tailored parenting approaches. Preparing for Solids Aurelia is showing signs of readiness for solids, such as stable sitting and interest in food.Planning to combine finger foods with spoon feeding, embracing flexibility in her weaning approach.Meg emphasizes making the transition enjoyable, encouraging parents to focus on exploration over perfection. Sleep Success and Self-Regulation Julia reflects on her surprising success with Aurelia’s sleep habits, avoiding the dreaded 17-week regression.Meg and Julia discuss the balance between responding to cries and allowing babies to self-soothe.They stress the importance of parental self-regulation to create calm and effective sleep routines. This episode is packed with practical advice and heartfelt insights for parents of babies in their early months. From celebrating milestones to preparing for weaning, Julia’s journey provides relatable and actionable takeaways. Meg’s expert guidance empowers parents to understand their baby’s unique personality, fostering confidence and joy in the parenting journey. Tune in to learn, reflect, and feel supported in these precious early months.

On this week’s episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we dive into juggling motherhood with Lexi Bird, the creative force behind South Africa’s beloved confectionery brand, Mamere. Lexi shares how she built her thriving business while raising two young daughters. From practical advice on work-life balance to celebrating creativity, this episode is packed with wisdom for moms navigating their own unique journeys. Building Mamere: From Hobby to Thriving Brand Lexi recounts how Mamere began as a passion project and evolved into a leading confectionery brand. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance, creativity, and trusting the process of organic growth. Lexi emphasizes starting small, staying flexible, and building a business that aligns with family priorities. Redefining Work-Life Balance as Work-Life Seasons Lexi introduces the concept of “work-life seasons” to replace the unrealistic idea of perfect balance. Some seasons demand more focus on work, while others prioritize family, and both are equally valid. Accepting the ebb and flow of responsibilities helps avoid burnout and guilt. Motherhood, Creativity, and Celebration Lexi shares how her role as a mom influences her creativity and approach to celebrations. She provides unique ideas for children's parties, blending fun and practicality. From unicorn trail mixes to bath ball party favors, Lexi inspires parents to embrace imperfections and enjoy the process. Practical Parenting and Empowering Children Lexi shares her approach to fostering healthy eating habits and involving her children in the kitchen. She emphasizes making food fun and not labeling treats as “forbidden,” promoting balance and curiosity. Her parenting style celebrates individuality and encourages kids to explore their interests. This episode is a must-listen for parents striving to balance ambition with family life. Lexi’s insights on work-life seasons, creativity, and embracing imperfections will leave listeners inspired. Whether you're a mompreneur or simply navigating the parenting journey, this episode offers actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on juggling life’s demands while finding joy along the way.

On this week’s episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we revisit Julia, a mom of two, as she shares the 17 weeks of baby bliss and challenges of parenting, Aurelia. This stage is full of rapid changes, from sleep patterns to emotional connections. Meg and Julia explore key milestones and offer practical advice to help parents navigate this delightful yet complex phase. The Joy of Parenting a 17-Week-Old Julia shares how Aurelia's emerging personality makes this age particularly rewarding. Aurelia is cooing, smiling, and engaging more, reflecting her growing social and emotional development. These moments, especially Aurelia’s interactions with her older sibling, make this stage heartwarming for Julia. The Magic of "Serve and Return" Meg explains the concept of "serve and return" as a cornerstone of social-emotional development.Parents are encouraged to engage in reciprocal interactions, leaving pauses for their babies to respond. These exchanges build emotional connections and lay the foundation for lifelong communication skills. Sleep Transitions and Challenges Julia shares her experience of dropping Aurelia’s dream feed and the adjustments that followed.Meg provides strategies for managing the 17-week sleep regression, emphasizing self-soothing and avoiding dependency habits. Parents are guided to listen carefully before responding to night wakings, fostering better long-term sleep patterns. Gender, Sensory Personalities, and Parenting Differences Julia and Meg reflect on how gender, sensory personalities, and parenting styles influence children’s behaviors. They debunk stereotypes about boys and girls, highlighting the impact of innate traits and parental confidence. Meg emphasizes the importance of adapting to each child’s unique needs rather than following rigid expectations. This episode is packed with insights for parents of young babies. From understanding emotional development to managing sleep, Julia and Meg provide practical advice grounded in experience and research. Whether you're navigating a sleep regression or marveling at your baby's milestones, this podcast will leave you feeling informed and empowered. Tune in for actionable tips and heartwarming stories that celebrate the journey of parenting.

On this week's episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we dive into the world of toys and their impact on our children's development. Joining Meg is Tove, and together they explore the importance of choosing the right toys for our little ones. With the festive season approaching, this episode is a must-listen for parents looking to make informed decisions about the toys they buy for their children. Understanding the Role of Toys in Development Meg and Tove discuss the significance of toys in a child's life, emphasizing that toys are not just for entertainment but also play a crucial role in their development. They highlight the importance of choosing toys that are durable, sustainable, and offer multiple play options. Toys that can be used in various ways encourage creativity, problem-solving, and imagination, which are essential skills for children to develop. The Impact of Toys on Sensory Development The conversation also touches on the impact of toys on sensory development. Meg explains that toys with different textures, colors, and sounds can stimulate a child's senses, promoting cognitive growth and development. They also discuss the benefits of toys that encourage active play, such as puzzles, blocks, and balls, which help develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Tips for Choosing the Right Toys Meg and Tove offer practical tips for parents on how to choose the right toys for their children. They emphasize the importance of considering a child's interests, age, and abilities when selecting toys. They also suggest that parents should look for toys that promote imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, they recommend choosing toys that are made from sustainable materials and can be passed down to future generations. The Benefits of Storytelling and Book Sharing The episode also explores the benefits of storytelling and book sharing in a child's development. Meg and Tove discuss how books with simple, colorful pictures and engaging stories can stimulate a child's language skills and encourage a love for reading. They also highlight the importance of interactive books with flaps, textures, and sounds that promote sensory development and engagement. In conclusion, this episode of Sense by Meg Faure is a must-listen for parents who want to make informed decisions about the toys they buy for their children. By understanding the role of toys in development, considering a child's interests and abilities, and choosing toys that promote creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills, parents can provide their children with the best possible start in life. Tune in to this episode to learn more about how to choose the right toys for your child and promote a lifelong love of learning.

On this week's episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we dive into the world of attachment-based parenting, a topic that has been gaining momentum in recent years. Joining Meg is Dr. Jenny Rose, a clinical psychologist with a deep passion for parent-child relationships and attachment. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Dr. Rose brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, making this episode a must-listen for any parent looking to build a strong, healthy relationship with their child. The Importance of Attachment Dr. Rose explains that attachment is not just a buzzword, but a fundamental aspect of parenting that has long-term effects on a child's mental health, academic success, and social relationships. She emphasizes that attachment is not just about being present, but about being attuned to a child's emotional cues and responding in a way that helps them feel safe and secure. Dr. Rose also highlights the importance of being "good enough" as a parent, rather than striving for perfection, which can actually create anxiety and detract from the attachment relationship. Breaking Intergenerational Patterns The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Dr. Rose shares an anecdote about witnessing a young mother struggling to connect with her child. She notes that this behavior is often a result of intergenerational patterns, where parents repeat the same behaviors they experienced in their own childhood. Dr. Rose stresses the importance of recognizing these patterns and actively working to break them, in order to create a more secure attachment with our own children. Practical Tips for Building Attachment For parents looking for practical advice, Dr. Rose offers valuable insights on how to build a strong attachment with their child. She emphasizes the importance of being present, putting away distractions like phones, and engaging in activities that promote emotional attunement. Dr. Rose also encourages parents to prioritize quality over quantity, recognizing that even small moments of connection can have a profound impact on a child's development. This episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, is a game-changer for parents seeking to build a strong, healthy relationship with their child. With Dr. Jenny Rose's expert guidance, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of attachment-based parenting and its long-term benefits. By tuning in, parents will learn how to break free from intergenerational patterns, cultivate emotional attunement, and create a secure attachment that will benefit their child for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to raise confident, resilient, and well-adjusted children.

On this week's episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we delve into the exciting 14-week stage of a baby’s life. This episode offers parents invaluable insights into routines, teething myths, and sleep strategies during the transition to month four. Meg Faure, a renowned occupational therapist and infant specialist, is joined by regular guest Julia. Together, they discuss Julia’s journey with her baby, Aurelia, exploring the joys and challenges of parenting through this developmental stage. Establishing Routines Meg and Julia dive into the importance of a flexible but consistent routine for three- to four-month-olds. They discuss how a well-balanced schedule can provide comfort for both parent and child. Bedtimes, day sleeps, morning wakings, and feeding schedules are explored in detail. By understanding these principles, parents can create predictability, which supports a smoother daily flow. Julia shares her routine with Aurelia, explaining how it brings structure and peace to their day. Debunking Teething Myths The episode addresses common misconceptions surrounding early teething, a frequent concern among parents of infants. Julia wonders if Aurelia is teething due to her red cheeks and discomfort. Meg clarifies that true teething rarely begins before six months. She discusses how early signs of teething, like red cheeks, are often misinterpreted. Instead, these signs could be linked to other developmental changes or sensory experiences. Preparing for the Four-Month Sleep Regression Meg introduces parents to the four-month sleep regression, a stage many find challenging. She explains that while daytime naps may remain short, there may be an increase in night wakings. Meg encourages experimenting with longer sleep stretches by minimizing nighttime responses and encourages self-soothing skills. Teaching babies to settle themselves at this stage can positively impact their future sleep patterns. Parenting in the "Gray" Areas Julia and Meg discuss the idea of “thriving in the gray,” where parenting is neither perfect nor predictable. Meg emphasizes that embracing flexibility and resilience is crucial for parents. By allowing room for uncertainty, parents can find peace in the ups and downs of the journey. This approach reminds listeners that occasional discomfort or unpredictability is natural for both parent and baby. This episode provides essential advice for navigating the unpredictable early months of parenting. Listeners gain practical tips on routines, understanding teething, and handling sleep regressions, helping them thrive with confidence. Whether you’re a new or seasoned parent, this episode offers tools to create a more peaceful, balanced experience.

On this week’s episode of Sense by Meg Faure, we welcome back Annie Hamilton, a renowned speech pathologist and feeding specialist sharing some practical feeding tips. Annie joins Meg to discuss everything parents need to know about starting solids for their little ones. This episode is packed with insights on creating positive, engaging, and effective mealtime routines. Annie provides expertise on practical feeding approaches and shares essential tips to make your child’s weaning journey enjoyable and successful. With her background in both feeding and speech development, Annie offers a unique perspective that supports parents in understanding their child’s feeding needs holistically. Preparing for the Weaning Journey Annie explains the basics of introducing solids, stressing the importance of proper seating and setting realistic expectations. She describes the process of balancing traditional feeding approaches with baby-led weaning to support each child’s individual pace. Annie encourages parents to introduce a variety of textures and foods early on to promote adventurous eating. This balanced approach allows caregivers to incorporate both guided feeding and independence, building confidence in their little ones as they explore new foods. Social Eating and Family Mealtime Connection Annie highlights the importance of social interaction during mealtime and its role in a child’s development. Eating together, she says, offers children valuable opportunities to learn from observing others, especially during family meals. She also shares tips on creating positive connections with food through family routines and without screens at the table. Annie describes how these mealtimes strengthen family bonds and provide learning moments that extend beyond feeding. Feeding Challenges and When to Seek Help Acknowledging that not all feeding journeys are easy, Annie discusses common challenges such as picky eating and limited diets. She encourages parents to pay attention to red flags, like long feeding times, weight issues, or respiratory difficulties while eating. For these challenges, Annie recommends seeking support from health professionals to address both the child's and parents' needs. Practical Strategies for Parents Annie and Meg share practical tips, including sensory-rich experiences to engage children without relying on screens. Simple activities like music, storytelling, and descriptive language create meaningful interactions around food. Annie emphasizes that making mealtime engaging and low-pressure can help reduce feeding struggles. This episode offers parents invaluable guidance on starting solids and overcoming common feeding hurdles. Annie’s expertise reassures parents as they embark on this journey, emphasizing the importance of connection, patience, and trust. Whether you’re just beginning or facing mealtime struggles, this episode will inspire confidence and make mealtime moments with your child more enjoyable.

On this week’s episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we explore the joys and challenges of early parenting, unpacking some crucial parenting tips. As Julia’s daughter Aurelia reaches 12 weeks, she joins Meg to discuss the realities of caring for a young infant. Together, they delve into early developmental milestones, feeding decisions, sleep patterns, and the unique journey of bonding with a baby. This episode provides a compassionate and practical look at navigating the first months of parenthood. The Joys and Milestones of Early Parenting Julia shares her experience of how joyful and heartwarming this phase of infancy can be. She describes how much Aurelia has grown since birth, delighting in her smiles and developing personality. Meg reflects on this tender phase, explaining that the first few months are a special bonding time. She notes how mothers often experience “primary maternal preoccupation,” feeling their baby is the most important and delightful person in their lives. This phase strengthens the parent-child bond, helping babies feel secure and cherished. Balancing Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding Feeding decisions are a central theme as Julia shares her journey with bottle feeding. Initially, she transitioned from breastfeeding to bottle feeding when Aurelia experienced illness. Julia expresses the mixed emotions involved, balancing the freedom bottle feeding offers with the emotional attachment to breastfeeding. Meg reassures listeners, emphasizing that each parent’s feeding journey is unique. She notes how important flexibility and comfort are in making the best choices for both parent and baby. Tackling Sleep Challenges and Habits Meg and Julia discuss one of the greatest early parenting hurdles: sleep. Julia describes Aurelia’s recent sleep habits, including short naps that disrupt a restful routine. Meg provides guidance on managing sleep patterns, explaining the importance of establishing habits while avoiding overstimulation. She offers advice on how parents can gently teach babies to self-soothe, suggesting patience, consistency, and allowing room for natural development. This episode is an essential listen for new parents navigating the early months of infancy filled with fantastic parenting tips. Meg and Julia share relatable experiences, tips, and compassionate guidance on feeding, sleep, and development. By tuning in, you will gain insights that make this challenging phase feel more manageable and rewarding. Whether you're struggling with sleep routines or finding joy in baby milestones, this episode provides valuable support for your parenting journey.