Is your little one turning up their nose at peas, spitting out carrots, or demanding snacks every hour? You're not alone—and we've got you covered.

In this episode of The Baby Playbook, we're joined by Nutritionist and Author Lisa Baker to dive deep into the world of picky eating in babies and toddlers. From identifying whether your child is truly a picky eater to building a positive relationship with food from the very first bite, Lisa shares expert tips and realistic strategies to make mealtime less stressful and a lot more fun.

We cover:

• The signs of picky eating—and what’s actually normal
  

• Proven techniques to encourage variety without pressure
  

• Making mealtime playful (and peaceful!)
  

• An approach to introducing solids
  

• Smart ways to manage snacking without power struggles
  

Whether you’re starting your solids journey or in the thick of toddler food battles, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you raise a confident, happy eater.

#PickyEating #BabyNutrition #ToddlerMeals #FeedingBabies #StartingSolids #HealthyEatingHabits #ParentingTips #TheBabyPlaybook #MealtimeTips #BabyFoodJourney #ToddlerParenting

LINKS:

Enter our giveaway with Lisa Baker here: www.heynikolinak.co 

You can get your hands on Lisa’s books here: https://coffeetablenutrition.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooHg_YntYKTYWdMiF_7xSUKUag4uOPRiAc67YVdlEWfCiuH0oc8

Follow Lise on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/the.coffee.table.nutritionist/ 

My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge⁠

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en⁠

👶 In this special Red Nose Day Australia episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re joined by paediatric doctor Dr. Nelu Simonsz to explore what the first six months of your baby’s life look like from a medical and developmental perspective.

From essential health check-ups and vaccinations, to understanding early developmental milestones, Dr. Simonsz shares expert insights to help new parents feel informed and empowered. We also take a deep dive into safe sleep practices—what they are, why they matter, and how to follow the trusted guidelines from Red Nose Australia to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

❤️ This episode coincides with Red Nose Day Australia, a national day of awareness and fundraising to support research and education around SIDS and safe sleeping. Learn how you can help make a difference while keeping your baby safe.

In this episode:

• What to expect at baby health appointments from birth to 6 months

• Key developmental milestones and when to seek support

• How to create a safe sleep environment for your baby

• The life-saving work of Red Nose Australia and how to get involved this Red Nose Day
  

🛑 Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical advice and vital information to support your baby’s health and safety.

Support the work of Red Nose Australia here: www.rednoseday.org.au 

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/

Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice 

Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 

Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, I sit down with Jess de Varine-Bohan, the inspiring owner of Too The Moon Kids, a beloved second-hand kids’ clothing store. Jess brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the table as we dive into everything you actually need to know about dressing your baby.

We cover: 👕 Understanding baby clothes sizing (and why it’s so confusing!) 💡 Tips on choosing clothes that are stylish and functional 📦 Smart storage solutions for baby clothes 💸 What’s not worth spending money on 🛍️ How to save money without sacrificing quality 🎁 Navigating clothing gifts from friends and family

Whether you're a new parent feeling overwhelmed by the piles of baby clothes—or you're just trying to be more intentional and budget-savvy—this episode is packed with helpful, real-world advice.

Tune in and get dressed for success—baby style!

LINKS:

Enter our giveaway with Too The Moon kids here: www.heynikolinak.co 

Too The Moon kids website: https://tothemoonkids.com.au/

Too The Moon kids Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tothemoonkids_

My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge⁠

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en⁠

#TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #BabyClothesTips #SecondHandBabyClothes #TooTheMoonKids #BabyClothingSizing #SaveMoneyOnBabyClothes #SustainableParenting #NewParentAdvice #BudgetBabyShopping #BabyClothingStorage #StylishBabyClothes #MinimalistParenting #EcoFriendlyParenting #ParentingPodcast #BabyClothingHacks #NewMumTips #BabyGiftGuide #ParentingOnABudget #SlowFashionKids #SecondHandKidsClothes

In this empowering episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re joined by Kelly Prior, founder of CAKE — the platform that’s helping parents and employers find flexible, family-friendly work opportunities. Kelly shares her expert insights on how to navigate the often overwhelming transition back to work after having a baby.

We dive deep into:
👶 Navigating maternity leave and preparing for your return
🧘‍♀️ Building a realistic work-life balance with young kids
💬 How to approach your employer about flexible working arrangements
💔 Coping with the emotional weight of mum guilt

Whether you’re preparing to head back to work, considering a career shift, or simply trying to stay afloat in the chaos of parenting and productivity, this episode is filled with practical advice and heartfelt encouragement.

LINKS:

Keep up to date with Kelly here: https://www.instagram.com/kellyprior__tm

Check out CAKE here: https://www.thecake.com.au 

Not So Mumsy by Marcia Leone can be found here: https://www.amazon.com.au/shop/heynikolinak/list/3T762RPXBU5ZG?ref_=aipsflist

My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

#TheBabyPlaybook #WorkingParents #MumGuilt #MaternityLeave #ParentingPodcast #WorkLifeBalance #FlexibleWorking #ReturnToWork #MotherhoodUnfiltered #CAKECommunity #ParentSupport #ModernParenting #CareerAfterKids

In this episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re doing something a little different. We're featuring a special crossover episode from the Mothers & Daughters podcast, where I had the joy of joining as a guest—alongside someone very special to me: my mum, Danica.

Together, we open up about our journeys as first-time mums, the highs and lows of new motherhood, and how our mother-daughter relationship has evolved over the years. This episode is an honest, emotional, and often funny look at parenting through two different lenses—but with the same deep love at the heart of it all.

Whether you're a new parent, a seasoned one, or just curious about how family bonds grow through parenting, this episode is a warm, candid conversation you won’t want to miss.

LINKS: 

Listen to the Mothers & Daughters podcast wherever you get your podcast from. 

Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice 

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/

Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 

Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re doing something a little different. We're featuring a special crossover episode from the Mothers & Daughters podcast, where I had the joy of joining as a guest—alongside someone very special to me: my mum, Danica.

Together, we open up about our journeys as first-time mums, the highs and lows of new motherhood, and how our mother-daughter relationship has evolved over the years. This episode is an honest, emotional, and often funny look at parenting through two different lenses—but with the same deep love at the heart of it all.

Whether you're a new parent, a seasoned one, or just curious about how family bonds grow through parenting, this episode is a warm, candid conversation you won’t want to miss.

LINKS: 

Listen to the Mothers & Daughters podcast wherever you get your podcast from. 

Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice 

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/

Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 

Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

👶 What Should You Pack in a Diaper Bag? Baby Bag Essentials + Sleep Tips for On-the-Go 🍼

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, we’re breaking down exactly how to pack a baby/diaper bag for newborns and infants—without overpacking or forgetting the essentials. Whether you're a first-time parent or just need a refresher, this guide covers everything you need for feeding, changes, and baby comfort while out and about.

Plus, we share practical baby sleep tips for traveling and naps on-the-go—including what to bring to help your baby nap in the stroller, car seat, or wherever the day takes you. Learn how to create a peaceful sleep environment anywhere.

LINKS:

SnoozeShade here: https://snoozeshade.com.au/

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/

Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 
Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

#DiaperBagEssentials #BabyBagChecklist #NewbornMustHaves #BabySleepTips #OnTheGoParenting #FirstTimeParent #NewParentTips #WhatToPackForBaby #BabyTravelTips #NewbornEssentials #WhatsInMyDiaperBag #ParentingPodcast #BabySleepOnTheGo #DiaperBagMustHaves #StrollerNapTips #NikolinaKharoufeh #TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #BabyPackingTips #SleepTipsForBabies #LifeWithABaby

🌸 Playtime with Your Newborn: Tips, Toy Recommendations, and Ideas for Bonding 🌸
In this insightful episode, I dive into the beautiful world of newborn playtime! As a new parent, play is one of the most rewarding ways to bond with your baby and support their early development. I share some of my favorite tips and tricks on how to engage with your newborn through play, along with recommendations and fun ideas that will create special moments between you and your little one.

Play isn’t just about toys—it’s about connection, sensory exploration, and nurturing that bond with your baby. In this episode, I’ll explore why play is crucial in the first few months, how to choose the right toys, and simple, easy ways to engage your baby during those early weeks. I provide practical suggestions to make every moment of play meaningful and developmental.

Whether you're a first-time parent, expecting your second, or a loved one looking to support someone with a newborn, this episode is packed with valuable tips and heartwarming ideas. Tune in to learn how to make the most of your baby’s early months through engaging, fun, and educational play.

DOWNLOAD your free Newborn Play Ideas Checklist here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/nugic

LINKS:
Enter our giveaway here: https://heynikolinak.co/

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/
Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282

#NewbornPlay #BabyDevelopment #ParentingPodcast #FirstTimeParents #NewbornBonding #TummyTime #BestToysForNewborns #SensoryPlay #BabyGames #ParentingTips #NewParentTips #ParentingSupport #PlaytimeIdeas #BondingWithBaby #TheBabyPlaybookPodcast

🌸 My Journey with Postnatal Depression: A New Mum’s Honest Story 🌸

In this deeply personal episode, I share my journey with postnatal depression as a new mum, shedding light on the emotional and mental challenges many of us face after childbirth. Postpartum depression is often an unspoken part of the motherhood experience, and in this video, I open up about my struggles, how I recognized the signs, and the steps I took toward recovery.

This episode is for anyone who feels isolated or overwhelmed by the emotional rollercoaster of new motherhood. Whether you're experiencing postnatal depression yourself or supporting someone who is, my hope is that this video helps you feel less alone and more understood. I'll discuss the impact of mental health after childbirth, coping strategies, the importance of seeking help.

Opening up about my postnatal blues when I have my first child Noah was really hard. I felt embarrassed and confused about how I fell into the feelings that had a profound impact on my time as a new mum. Being able to speak about it on the How To Podcast at the time was tough, but so rewarding. I was able to share the experience and connect with so many mums who had felt the same. 

So in this week’s The Baby Playbook Podcast episode I wanted to share that moment, as I still feel like it can help someone out there who may be feeling the same. Whether you’re a new mum, a soon-to-be parent, or a loved one trying to understand the complexities of mental health after childbirth, this episode provides valuable insights and support for those navigating the postpartum period.This episode discusses topics of mental health.. If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline 131 114, or Beyond Blue 1800 512 348.In an emergency dial 000.LINKS: Listen to the rest of the How To Life Podcast here: ⁠https://novafm.com.au/podcast/how-to-life/5060f830-b58c-4479-984a-68d1f205bbb7⁠ Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en⁠Subscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/⁠Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282⁠ Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge ⁠#PostnatalDepression #FirstTimeMom #PostpartumWellness #MentalHealthAfterBirth #PostpartumDepression #MotherhoodAndMentalHealth #PostpartumSupport #NewMomLife #MentalHealthMatters #ParentingPodcast #PostpartumJourney #CopingWithPostnatalDepression

🌟 Taking Care of Yourself as a New Mum: Wellness & Nutrition Tips 🌟In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Ana Robinson from Nourish Us, a certified nutritionist and wellness coach, to discuss the importance of self-care and maintaining your health as a new mum during the early stages of parenthood. Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience, but often, new mums can neglect their own wellness in the midst of caring for their newborns.We dive deep into practical nutrition tips, self-care routines, and mindset shifts that will help new mums find balance and boost their energy as they navigate this transformative journey. Whether you're struggling with postpartum recovery, lack of sleep, or simply trying to stay healthy, this conversation offers valuable insights and support for every new parent.🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Essential nutrition tips to nourish yourself during the postpartum periodThe importance of sleep and stress management for new mumsHow to create a sustainable self-care routine, even with a busy babyMindset strategies for staying positive and connected to yourselfAnd so much more!If you're a new mum or expecting, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you thrive during the first chapter of parenthood.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes focused on wellness, self-care, and parenting tips.This week is PART TWO of our chat focusing on wellness - so make sure you catch PART ONE which talks about using food and nutrition to nourish your body at this tricky time.

LINKS: 

Follow Ana Robinson here: https://www.nourishus.com.au/ 

Yoga with Adriene can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/yogawithadriene 

Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice 

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/

Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 

Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

#PostnatalWellness #NewMomTips #MaternalMentalHealth #MomSelfCare #PostpartumRecovery #WellnessForMoms #HealthyMomHealthyBaby #MotherhoodJourney #PostpartumSupport #SelfCareForMoms #ParentingPodcast #MomLifeBalance #HolisticMotherhood #MentalHealthMatters