Parenting with Ngala

S2Ep7: Play is the work of childhood but what does that actually look like in the first year of life? In this episode, Jen and Hannah are joined by Jane, a psychologist and mother of three at Ngala, to explore how babies play long before they ever pick up a Barbie or a dinosaur. Jane unpacks two powerful theories of play, Vygotsky's social scaffolding and Piaget's "little scientist" model, and explains why both give parents permission to show up differently on different days. From the "serve and return" interaction and object permanence through peekaboo, to the honest conversation about phones and the still face experiment, this episode reframes play as something that's already happening and something that benefits parents just as much as their babies.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 "Play is the work of childhood"(01:00) Jane introduces herself(01:30) What is play, really? Beyond Barbies and dinosaurs(03:00) Two theories of play: Vygotsky vs. Piaget(05:30) Independent play giving yourself permission to step back(07:00) Normalising that play doesn't come naturally to every parent(08:45) Serve and return the tennis game between baby and caregiver(10:45) How play builds brain architecture and neural networks(11:30) Play as mindfulness for parents(13:00) How play supports language development(16:00) Practical play ideas for the early months sensory, faces and lotion time(18:15) Books, puzzles and letting go of the predetermined outcome(20:45) Peekaboo and object permanence(22:00) Play ideas for the second half of the first year pulling up, tempo games(23:15) Winding down the importance of regulating play before bed(24:30) Bath time and water play(25:30) Nature as the ultimate sensory playground(29:45) Do babies need toys? What the research actually says(33:45) The still face experiment and phones an honest conversation(36:15) Wrap up and Ngala Parenting LineFollow Ngala 🌐Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=auProduced 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

S2E5 (3-12m) In this episode of Parenting with Ngala, child health nurse Jill, with over 20 years of experience, joins the conversation to discuss the essentials of starting solids. Moving beyond strict schedules, the discussion focuses on what babies truly need for a safe and healthy transition to food: physical readiness, core strength, and sensory exploration.Jill provides practical advice on introducing iron-rich foods and common allergens, while addressing the "poker face" required to handle normal gagging. From debunking the myth that solids improve sleep to managing digestive changes, this episode offers a grounded guide to navigating nutrition in the first year.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.00:58 Meet Jill: Child Health Nurse and Parenting Line Expert.01:41 Physical Readiness: Looking for "trunk strength" over "jellyfish blobs".02:50 Timing and Safety: Why we aim for six months and never before four.03:37 Setting the Scene: Familiarising babies with highchairs and spoons early.05:15 The Gagging Reflex: Why gagging is a safe and necessary learning experience.06:04 Introducing the First Bite: Consistency, iron-rich foods, and smooth purees.08:11 Modern Guidelines: Moving beyond the "one food a week" rule.08:55 Transitioning Textures: Moving from purees to soft lumps and finger foods.10:41 Sensory Exploration: Embracing messy food play and "nutrients through eyebrows".11:42 Balancing Milk and Solids: Why milk stays the priority initially.13:33 The Sleep Myth: Why solids won't solve sleep challenges.14:20 Digestive Changes: Managing constipation and new gut reactions.16:47 Safety First: Distinguishing gagging from choking and the value of first aid.20:23 Navigating Allergies: Introducing common allergens as "welcome friends".22:23 Identifying Reactions: Rashes, eczema, and when to consult a GP.24:55 Foods to Avoid: Honey and high-risk choking hazards in the first year.26:22 Closing Thoughts: Contacting the Ngala Parenting Line for support.Follow Ngala 🌐Instagram 🔗https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official/Facebook 🔗https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official/LinkedIn 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala/?originalSubdomain=auProduced 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=auProduced 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

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 PodcastSubscribe: 🔗 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 Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music 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 PodcastSubscribe: 🔗 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 Thoughts00:41 Meet Divyah: Adjusting to Parenthood01:23 The Baby and Someone: Caregiver's Role03:48 Common Parental Concerns07:23 Intrusive Thoughts Explained10:58 OCD and Postpartum Psychosis16:25 Tools for Managing Intrusive Thoughts19:59 Self-Care for New Parents26:45 Conclusion and Resources--------------------------------------Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music 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 PodcastSubscribe: 🔗 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 Night00:54 Meet Angela: Experience and Background02:24 Understanding Baby Crying: Communication andPatterns05:50 Coping with Crying: Tips and Advice09:54 When to Seek Help: Postnatal Depression and Professional Support10:44 Recognising Different Types of Cries15:05 The Witching Hour: Evening Crying Explained19:36 Settling and Soothing Techniques21:42 Ditching the Swaddle: When and Why22:15 Swaddling Alternatives and Baby Gear23:26 Burping and Wind Relief Techniques24:25 The Magic of Bath Time26:09 Managing Car Rides and Baby Stress28:43 Tag Team Parenting: Sharing the Load33:30 Responsive Settling vs. Controlled Crying35:37 Engaging with Your Baby: Communication Tips38:20 Adapting to Your Baby's Unique Needs--------------------------------------Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music 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 PodcastSubscribe: 🔗 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 Challenges00:57 Meet the Expert: Kate's Background01:46 Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns02:36 Feeding and Sleep: The Connection04:27 Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment06:21 Parental Competency and Learning06:52 Safe Sleep Practices and Recommendations12:51 Noisy Newborns: Understanding Baby Sleep Sounds13:39 REM Sleep Explained: Why Babies Wake Up Easily15:01 The Fourth Trimester: Creating a Womb-Like Environment15:47 Settling Techniques: Helping Your Baby Sleep16:48 Responsiveness: Building Trust with Your Baby17:35 Parenting Challenges: Balancing Attention with Older Children19:37 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents21:23 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Parenthood--------------------------------------Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

In this first episode, hosts Jen (RN and midwife) and Hannah (OT) discuss the challenges and expectations of becoming a parent. They emphasise the importance of being kind to yourself, recognising the stress of the early days, and developing a postpartum plan. They also cover the concept of parental instincts, the significance of being responsive to your baby, and the evolving nature of parenthood. The episode offers valuable insights into managing visitors post-birth and maintaining balance amidst new parenting challenges.Follow the PodcastSubscribe: 🔗 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 Parenthood00:53 Meet the Hosts: Jen and Hannah01:41 About the Parenting Line Service03:08 Expectations vs Reality of Parenthood05:14 Creating a Postpartum Plan08:08 Setting Boundaries and Communicating Needs12:00 Understanding Parental Instincts15:22 Reflecting on Parenting Styles15:51 The OT Framework: Doing, Being, and Becoming16:55 Learning and Adapting as Parents18:26 The Myth of the Perfect Parent19:37 Understanding and Managing Stress23:23 The Concept of 'Good Enough' Parenting26:45 Visualising and Preparing for Parenthood30:21 Seeking Support and Looking Ahead--------------------------------------Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe.📞 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.