#33 Do Newborns Really Need Toys? With Rebecca Naim
In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, we're joined by educator and founder of E&J Toy Co, Rebecca Naim, for an insightful conversation on how to approach play with your newborn during those crucial first six months.We dive into what babies are actually capable of during this time, what theyโre learning through play, and how to support their development with the right tools and environment. Rebecca shares expert tips on:The essential skills newborns are developing from birth to 6 monthsHow to make tummy time more enjoyable (for baby and you!)What toys and play items are actually worth buying โ and what to skipGift ideas that support learning, not just clutter the nurseryWhether you're a new parent, gift-giver, or just curious about what purposeful play looks like in those early months, this episode is packed with practical guidance and encouraging insight.Tune in to learn how to confidently support your babyโs development from day one โ with play thatโs simple, intentional, and rooted in connection.LINKS:ย Enter our incredible giveaway with E&J Toy Co here: https://heynikolinak.co/ย ย Shop the E&J Toy Co range here: https://www.ejtoyco.com/collections/allCheck out the high contrast book Rebecca talks about here: https://www.mesmerised.com.au/product/high-contrast-baby-book-set/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/1615190698987282ย Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite childrenโs book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge #TheBabyPlaybookPodcastย #NewbornPlay #InfantDevelopment #TummyTimeTips #BestBabyToys #PurposefulPlay #NewParentTips #EarlyLearning
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#32 What Does Life With Newborn Twins Look Like? With Chantae Reden
In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of The Baby Playbook, we sit down with twin mum Chantae Reden to talk all things twins โ from the moment she found out she was expecting two babies, to the whirlwind of navigating the newborn phase.Chantae shares her journey through the medical side of a twin pregnancy, what surprised her most during those early weeks, and the practical ways she saved money without compromising on what her babies needed. We also dive into how she leaned on her community, friends, and family for support โ including second-hand gems and baby gear that made a big difference.Whether you're a parent of multiples, expecting twins, or just curious about what itโs really like, this episode is packed with honest insights, tips, and lots of love.๐ Tune in for real talk, relatable moments, and practical advice from a mum who's been there โ twice over.#TheBabyPlaybook #TwinMumLife #NewbornTwins #ParentingPodcast #RealMumTalk #SavingMoneyWithBabies #TwinPregnancy #MumSupportNetwork #LifeWithTwins #HonestParentingLINKS:Follow Chantae and her family on Instagram: @thesaltsirensYou can also catch her at www.TheSaltSirens.com and www.ChantaeReden.comMy Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): โ https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudgeโ Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: โ https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enโ
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#31 How Can You Tackle Picky Eating in Babies and Toddlers? With Lisa Baker
Is your little one turning up their nose at peas, spitting out carrots, or demanding snacks every hour? You're not aloneโand 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 eatingโand whatโs actually normalProven techniques to encourage variety without pressureMaking mealtime playful (and peaceful!)An approach to introducing solidsSmart ways to manage snacking without power strugglesWhether youโre 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 #ToddlerParentingLINKS:Enter our giveaway with Lisa Baker here: www.heynikolinak.coย You can get your hands on Lisaโs books here: https://coffeetablenutrition.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooHg_YntYKTYWdMiF_7xSUKUag4uOPRiAc67YVdlEWfCiuH0oc8Follow Lise on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/the.coffee.table.nutritionist/ย My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): โ https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudgeโ Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: โ https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enโ
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#30 Why Are Medical Visits and Safe Sleep So Important in Early Parenthood? With Dr. Nelu Simonsz
๐ถ In this special Red Nose Day Australia episode of The Baby Playbook, weโre joined by paediatric doctor Dr. Nelu Simonsz to explore what the first six months of your babyโs 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 practicesโwhat 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).โค๏ธ 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 monthsKey developmental milestones and when to seek supportHow to create a safe sleep environment for your babyThe life-saving work of Red Nose Australia and how to get involved this Red Nose Day๐ Whether youโre a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical advice and vital information to support your babyโs health and safety.Support the work of Red Nose Australia here: www.rednoseday.org.auย Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe 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/mumadviceย Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282ย Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite childrenโs book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge
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#29 How Do You Really Dress A Baby? With Jess de Varine-Bohan
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 kidsโ 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: ๐ Understanding baby clothes sizing (and why itโs so confusing!) ๐ก Tips on choosing clothes that are stylish and functional ๐ฆ Smart storage solutions for baby clothes ๐ธ Whatโs not worth spending money on ๐๏ธ How to save money without sacrificing quality ๐ Navigating clothing gifts from friends and familyWhether you're a new parent feeling overwhelmed by the piles of baby clothesโor you're just trying to be more intentional and budget-savvyโthis episode is packed with helpful, real-world advice.Tune in and get dressed for successโbaby style!LINKS:Enter our giveaway with Too The Moon kids here: www.heynikolinak.coย 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!): โ https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudgeโ Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: โ https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enโ #TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #BabyClothesTips #SecondHandBabyClothes #TooTheMoonKids #BabyClothingSizing #SaveMoneyOnBabyClothes #SustainableParenting #NewParentAdvice #BudgetBabyShopping #BabyClothingStorage #StylishBabyClothes #MinimalistParenting #EcoFriendlyParenting #ParentingPodcast #BabyClothingHacks #NewMumTips #BabyGiftGuide #ParentingOnABudget #SlowFashionKids #SecondHandKidsClothes
๐๏ธ Welcome to The Baby Playbook Podcast โ Your Guide to the First 6 Months of Parenthood! ๐๏ธ
This podcast is for new parents navigating the exciting (and challenging) journey of raising babies and newborns. Get expert tips on baby sleep, feeding, developmental milestones, and self-care for parents. Tune in for real-life stories, practical advice, and parenting hacks to help you confidently tackle the first 6 months. Join us as we support each other on this incredible journey!
#NewbornParenting #BabySleep #ParentingTips #FirstSixMonths