Best for Baby | Expert Baby Advice & Support for Overwhelmed Mums

Physio Baby Ltd

This go-to podcast for new parents offers expert advice, practical tips, and thoughtful discussions about all things baby-related! New parents will be armed and ready to tackle any niggling or overwhelming concerns they may have about their babies. Hosted by a paediatric physiotherapist (and mum!) with more than 20 years experience working with babies and children, this podcast dives into the unique challenges and joys of caring for newborns and infants. Have you been googling any of the following? * How to do tummy time? * Should I swaddle my newborn? * How to fix a flat head in babies * Why won't my baby sleep? * Reasons for late walking in babies * What is hypermobility? Google no more! Whether you're a first time parent or adding to your family, Best for Baby will answer all your baby questions. With real-life tips, interviews with healthcare professionals and parents, this podcast empowers parents with the knowledge they need to give their baby the best start in life. Tune in weekly for thoughtful advice and support, tailored to help you navigate your baby's first year with confidence and ease. www.physiobaby.co.uk

  1. 3d ago

    E26: Ten Baby Tips Every Parent Needs | My Best Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Care Hacks

    In this episode, Lisa shares the practical tips that completely changed her own experience of becoming a mum. From easing pregnancy nausea to making the first postpartum poo less frightening, preventing meconium from sticking to your baby's skin, avoiding nappy rash, and creating stress-free nappy changing routines, these are the simple hacks she recommends to every new parent. Whether you're expecting your first baby or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with realistic advice that can make those early weeks much easier. In this episode you'll learn:  Why pregnancy vitamins may sometimes contribute to nausea  How to make the first bowel movement after birth much easier  How to support your stitches after a vaginal birth or caesarean  What meconium is and why it can be difficult to clean  A gentle nappy changing routine that may help prevent nappy rash  Why delaying your baby's first bath has important health benefits  What vernix is and why you shouldn't rush to wash it away  Simple products that made life easier with a newborn  Budget-friendly parenting hacks you'll still use years later If you're preparing for birth or navigating life with a newborn, this episode is full of practical advice you can start using straight away. Helpful Resources: Cheeky Wipes If you're worried about your baby's head shape, flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly), brachycephaly or torticollis, visit the plagiocephaly page on my website for trusted guidance, downloadable resources and specialist support. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another new or expectant parent. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    32 min
  2. Jul 3

    MS 3: E3: Baby Flat Head: Why Some Babies Improve More than Others (and When to Think About a Helmet)

    If you've been doing everything "right" and your baby's head shape still isn't improving, this episode is for you. In the final episode of our Head Shape Miniseries, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers Sergeant explains why some babies respond quickly to repositioning and exercises while others need additional support. You'll learn the biggest factors that influence head shape correction including your baby's age, movement patterns, severity of flattening, and even family circumstances; and why none of these mean you've failed. Lisa also gives an honest, experience-based look at helmet therapy:  When is it worth considering?  How do helmets actually work?  How do you know if your baby needs one?  And can babies still achieve great results without one? Whether you're seeing encouraging progress or feeling stuck, this episode will help you make informed, confident decisions about the next step for your baby. In this episode, you'll learn:  Why some babies improve much faster than others  The biggest predictors of successful head shape correction  When it's time to seek extra support  How helmet therapy works (and who it helps most)  Common myths about helmets  Why physiotherapy should empower parents, not create endless appointments  How to know you're on the right track Resources mentioned:  Free Head Shape Guide  Baby Flat Head Fix Booklet  Baby Head Flat Head Syndrome Solution (Online Course for Parents)  Book a free discovery call (Ten Minutes) One-to-one physiotherapy consultations (One hour)If you've found this mini-series helpful, I'd love it if you'd leave a review and share it with another parent who might be worrying about their baby's head shape. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    27 min
  3. Jun 26

    MS3: E2: Three Common Mistakes That Make Flat Head Syndrome Worse (And What to Do Instead)

    Are you doing everything you can to improve your baby's flat head syndrome but still not seeing the progress you hoped for? In this episode of The Best for Baby Podcast, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers Sergeant explains the three most common mistakes parents unknowingly make when trying to correct flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly and brachycephaly). Building on last week's episode, Lisa shares practical, evidence-based strategies that help reduce pressure on your baby's flat spot while supporting healthy movement and development. She also gives an update on a real patient whose head-turning preference has already improved significantly after just one week of physiotherapy. You'll learn why tummy time alone isn't enough, how to safely encourage better head positioning, and why certain baby equipment may be slowing your baby's progress. In this episode you'll learn: ✔️ Why tummy time isn't the only solution for flat head syndrome ✔️ The biggest positioning mistakes parents make ✔️ How to encourage your baby to turn their head naturally ✔️ Safe ways to reduce pressure on your baby's flat spot ✔️ Tips for making tummy time easier and more enjoyable ✔️ Why constantly repositioning your baby's head can be counterproductive ✔️ How supervised daytime naps may help reduce pressure on the flattened area ✔️ Which baby equipment contributes most to flat head syndrome ✔️ When helmet therapy may become necessary ✔️ Simple changes you can make today to support your baby's head shape If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure whether you're doing the right things, this episode will help you feel more confident with practical advice you can start using straight away. Resources mentioned: Download the Baby Flat Head Fix Booklet (use code PODCAST for 50% off) Explore the Complete Baby Flat Head Syndrome Solution (Online Course) Listen to Episode 1 of the Baby Head Shape Mini-Series If you're worried about your baby's head shape, remember that early action, consistent positioning, and the right guidance can make a significant difference. Subscribe to The Best for Baby Podcast so you don't miss next week's episode, where Lisa explains everything parents need to know about baby helmets when they're recommended, how they work, and whether your baby might need one. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    32 min
  4. Jun 12

    E25: 5 Modern day threats to your baby's health and development

    From Toxins and Poor Nutrition to Screen Time and Microplastics we are hard-up to keep our babies healthy and safe these days!! Join Lisa as she goes through what to believe (and what to do about ) this minefield of baby health topics. Today's episode explores five modern parenting habits that may be affecting your baby's physical, cognitive and long-term health, often without us even realising it. Lisa shares practical insights to help parents make informed decisions without guilt or overwhelm. Remember: this episode isn't about perfection. It's about awareness, small changes, and celebrating the wins. In This Episode You'll Learn: ✔ Why babies are exposed to more microplastics than adults ✔ How microplastics may affect hormones, gut health and long-term wellbeing ✔ Why tummy time remains one of the most important activities for baby development ✔ The surprising ways baby equipment can delay movement milestones ✔ What the latest screen time recommendations say for babies and young children ✔ How screen time impacts learning, emotional regulation and social development ✔ The role ultra-processed foods may play in children's long-term health ✔ Why family mealtimes matter more than you might think ✔ Practical ways to reduce risks without adding stress to your parenting journey The 5 Things Discussed in This Episode:  Microplastics  Lack of Tummy Time  Overuse of Baby Equipment  Screen Time  Ultra-Processed Foods & NutritionKey Takeaway Parenting in today's world is hard. The goal isn't perfection, it's making small, intentional changes that support your baby's development and long-term health. Every tummy time session, screen-free meal, outdoor play opportunity, and nutritious food choice adds up. Resources Mentioned  Free Microplastics Reduction Checklist Head Shape Resources The Gentle Birth Method by Dr Gowri MothaConnect With Lisa If you have questions about your baby's development, head shape, tummy time, or movement milestones, reach out and connect. You're not meant to do this alone. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    41 min
  5. Jun 5

    E 24: Why New Mums Need More Postnatal Support: Postnatal Anxiety, Boundaries and Finding your Village with Postnatal Doula, Jade Harkness

    What happens after the midwives leave and the reality of motherhood begins? As new mums, we have all been through those moments where you feel isolated, unheard and unseen. You are "happy" to put your needs second (or third, or fourth...) as long as your baby is well. This isn't always the best way, but how do we create an environment where mum can thrive as well as the new baby, despite the sleepless nights and overwhelm. In this episode of the Best for Baby Podcast, Lisa is joined by postnatal doula Jade Harkness from the Mamas Wellbeing Hub. Jade shares her own experience of postnatal anxiety and explains how it led her to become passionate about supporting mothers through the often-overlooked fourth trimester. Together, they discuss the emotional, practical and informational support new mums need, why community matters so much in early motherhood, and how postnatal doulas can help families feel seen, heard and supported during one of life's biggest transitions. Whether you're expecting a baby, navigating the newborn stage, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers reassurance, practical advice and a reminder that mothers deserve care too. In This Episode We Discuss:  What a postnatal doula is and how they differ from birth doulas  The emotional challenges many mums face in the early weeks after birth  Why the day 3–5 hormone shift can feel overwhelming  The importance of holding space for mothers without trying to "fix" them  Setting boundaries with visitors after birth  Why community can be a lifeline in motherhood  Supporting both mums and partners through the transition to parenthood  Birth and hospital debriefs after difficult experiences  Returning to work after maternity leave  The power of skin-to-skin contact for babies, mothers and fathers  Learning to ask for — and accept — practical help Find out more about Jade and her postnatal support services through Mamas Wellbeing Hub: Connect with Jade here! Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    41 min
  6. May 22

    E 23: Microplastics & Babies: 5 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Baby’s Exposure

    Are babies really more exposed to microplastics than adults? In this eye-opening episode of the Best for Baby Podcast, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers Sergeant explores the growing concern around microplastics in babies’ environments and what parents can realistically do to reduce exposure without stress, guilt, or perfectionism. From baby bottles and food pouches to clothing, toys, nursery dust, car seats, and feeding equipment, Lisa shares the biggest hidden sources of microplastics affecting babies today and explains why little ones may be more vulnerable than adults. Importantly, this episode is not about fear or becoming completely plastic-free. Instead, it’s about simple, affordable changes that can reduce exposure in the areas that matter most. You’ll learn: ✨ Why babies are exposed to more microplastics than adults ✨ What emerging research says about microplastics, inflammation, hormones, and gut health ✨ The surprising everyday baby items that may release microplastics ✨ Safer swaps for baby bottles, feeding, food prep, and toys ✨ How to reduce exposure without overwhelm or guilt ✨ Lisa’s practical 80/20 approach to making manageable changes In This Episode We Cover:  What microplastics are and where they come from  Why babies may absorb more microplastics than adults  Formula feeding, breast milk storage, and bottle concerns  Food prep, weaning, and hidden plastic exposure  Nursery dust, carpets, baby toys, and teething rings  Synthetic clothing and bedding  Five simple ways to reduce your baby’s exposure Resources Mentioned: The Plastic Detox documentary  FREE Microplastics Checklist for Babies 💛 Remember: this episode is about progress, not perfection. Small changes can make a meaningful difference. If this episode helped you, please share it with another mum or parent who would love practical, evidence-informed ways to support their baby’s health. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    30 min
  7. May 15

    E 22: Tummy Time & Supervised Tummy Naps: What’s Actually Safe for Babies?

    Confused about tummy time? Worried about tummy naps after scary headlines or conflicting advice online? In this episode of the Best for Baby Podcast, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers Sergeant explains what tummy time actually is, why it matters for your baby’s development, and how supervised daytime tummy naps may fit safely into your routine. After recent conversations around infant sleep safety, many parents feel frightened and unsure about what’s safe, especially when it comes to newborn tummy time and contact naps. This episode gives you clear, practical guidance without the overwhelm. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✔️ Why tummy time matters for baby development, strength, and milestones ✔️ How tummy time affects head shape and flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly) ✔️ Why many babies hate tummy time, and how to make it easier ✔️ What counts as tummy time (it’s more than just floor time) ✔️ The safest ways to start tummy time from day one ✔️ How to create a safe tummy time space ✔️ The difference between night sleep and supervised daytime naps ✔️ What supervised daytime tummy naps mean and the conditions required for safety Key reminder from this episode: Overnight sleep = always on their back in a clear cot. Daytime tummy time = supervised, safe space, clear airway. This episode is designed to help parents feel calm, confident and informed especially if tummy time has been stressful or confusing. Links Mentioned: Totter and Tumble Play Mat: 10% off: Here Loved this episode? Please share it with another parent who may be worried about tummy time or feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    46 min

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About

This go-to podcast for new parents offers expert advice, practical tips, and thoughtful discussions about all things baby-related! New parents will be armed and ready to tackle any niggling or overwhelming concerns they may have about their babies. Hosted by a paediatric physiotherapist (and mum!) with more than 20 years experience working with babies and children, this podcast dives into the unique challenges and joys of caring for newborns and infants. Have you been googling any of the following? * How to do tummy time? * Should I swaddle my newborn? * How to fix a flat head in babies * Why won't my baby sleep? * Reasons for late walking in babies * What is hypermobility? Google no more! Whether you're a first time parent or adding to your family, Best for Baby will answer all your baby questions. With real-life tips, interviews with healthcare professionals and parents, this podcast empowers parents with the knowledge they need to give their baby the best start in life. Tune in weekly for thoughtful advice and support, tailored to help you navigate your baby's first year with confidence and ease. www.physiobaby.co.uk

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