Parenting with Ngala

Ngala
  • 5.0 (10)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

All parents want to do their best, but there’s so much contradictory, confusing and complicated info it’s hard to know what ‘best’ even means! Hosted by Jen (RN & Midwife) and Hannah (Occupational Therapist) from Ngala - WA's Leading Parenting Organisation - each episode brings in a Ngala professional to share the latest evidence-informed parenting practices and offer practical and realistic support on the major topics that keep parents awake at night (literally!). There’s no judgement, no blame, and no shying away from the real challenges all parents face in their quest to do their best.

Episodes

  1. 25/11/2025

    Being a Partner. What is your role in these early months?

    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

    35 min

  2. 18/11/2025

    Adjusting to parenthood. Mental health and looking after yourself.

    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

    28 min

  3. 11/11/2025

    Feeding. One of the most important bonding opportunities.

    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

    23 min

  4. 04/11/2025

    Crying: What to expect and how to handle it.

    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

    42 min

  5. 28/10/2025

    Sleep Part 2: When sleep ain't working. Common sleep challenges and how to address them.

    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

    25 min

  6. 21/10/2025

    Sleep Part 1: What is typical and what to expect

    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

    26 min

  7. 15/10/2025

    Raising mentally healthy children. Supporting baby's social and emotional development.

    In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the world of infant mental health and parental wellness. Our guest, Darya, one of Ngala's registered psychologists and a mum, shares valuable knowledge and strategies for supporting the social and emotional development of babies. We explore the importance of bonding, attachment, and the role of parental well-being in raising mentally healthy children. Darya discusses practical tips like the 'serve and return' method, the significance of parental voices, and creating a supportive environment for both parents and infants.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 Infant Mental Health 00:54 Guest Introduction: Meet Darya 00:57 Understanding Social and Emotional Development 04:27 Parental Wellness and Its Impact 06:14 Navigating New Parenthood 07:30 Creating a Supportive Environment for Parents 14:30 The Concept of 'Good Enough' Parenting 18:06 The Night Shift: Calming a Crying Baby 19:32 Seeking Help and Self-Regulation 21:25 Understanding Infant Mental Health 28:50 The Importance of Serve and Return 31:40 Engaging with Your Baby: Practical Tips 37:50 Concluding Thoughts on Parenting Strategies -------------------------------------- Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit⁠License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/briefs/5-steps-for-brain-building-serve-and-return/ 🔔 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.

    39 min

  8. 14/10/2025

    Preparing for Parenthood. It's going to be okay. Mostly.

    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 Parenthood 00:53 Meet the Hosts: Jen and Hannah 01:41 About the Parenting Line Service 03:08 Expectations vs Reality of Parenthood 05:14 Creating a Postpartum Plan 08:08 Setting Boundaries and Communicating Needs 12:00 Understanding Parental Instincts 15:22 Reflecting on Parenting Styles 15:51 The OT Framework: Doing, Being, and Becoming 16:55 Learning and Adapting as Parents 18:26 The Myth of the Perfect Parent 19:37 Understanding and Managing Stress 23:23 The Concept of 'Good Enough' Parenting 26:45 Visualising and Preparing for Parenthood 30:21 Seeking Support and Looking Ahead -------------------------------------- Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podwave Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music 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.

    32 min

  9. TRAILER

    Parenting with Ngala Trailer

    All parents want to do their best, but there’s so much contradictory, confusing and complicated info it’s hard to know what ‘best’ even means! Hosted by Jen (Registered Nurse & Midwife) and Hannah (Occupational Therapist) from Ngala - WA's Leading Parenting Organisation - each episode brings in a Ngala professional to share the latest evidence-informed parenting practices and offer practical and realistic support on the major topics that keep parents awake at night (literally!). There’s no judgement, no blame, and no shying away from the real challenges all parents face in their quest to do their best. Follow Ngala on socials. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ngala.Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngala.official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ngala YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NgalaOfficial 🔔 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. Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-toes/the-summit License code: FTQLZK6PIYUYDCXK

    1 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

All parents want to do their best, but there’s so much contradictory, confusing and complicated info it’s hard to know what ‘best’ even means! Hosted by Jen (RN & Midwife) and Hannah (Occupational Therapist) from Ngala - WA's Leading Parenting Organisation - each episode brings in a Ngala professional to share the latest evidence-informed parenting practices and offer practical and realistic support on the major topics that keep parents awake at night (literally!). There’s no judgement, no blame, and no shying away from the real challenges all parents face in their quest to do their best.

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