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

Physio Baby Ltd
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  • Parenting

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. 4d ago

    Sleep Training Newborns: Should you do it? A sleep consultant answers this and all your other baby sleep questions.

    Why won't my baby sleep through the night? Is co-sleeping ever safe? Will feeding or rocking my baby to sleep create a "bad habit"?  In this episode of the Best for Baby Podcast, host Lisa Rogers Sergeant sits down with Maddy Thompson, a social worker, mum of two, and paediatric sleep consultant at Balanced Bedtime Sleep Consultancy, for an honest, guilt-free look at baby and toddler sleep. Maddy explains the enormous "normal" range for newborn sleep, why safe sleep guidelines and natural instincts to hold and comfort your baby aren't in conflict, and how to safely navigate co-sleeping and contact naps. She breaks down practical, science-backed tools like sleep pressure, light exposure and anchoring the day, and reframes "sleep training" as gentle, responsive sleep optimisation. If you've ever felt judged, confused or anxious about your baby's sleep, this conversation will leave you feeling reassured and equipped. In this episode: The huge "normal" range for newborn sleep (11–19 hours)Safe co-sleeping guidance and why the conversation has changedWhy feeding, rocking or contact-napping to sleep isn't a "bad habit"What sleep pressure is and how it drives good sleepWhy light exposure within 30 minutes of waking mattersSleep training vs. sleep optimisation: the gentler, responsive approachCommon sleep myths busted (overtiredness, "if I respond too much…", age cutoffs)Why comparing your baby to others online does more harm than goodMentioned in this episode: Maddy Thompson, Balanced Bedtime Sleep Consultancy Maddy's Safe Sleep ResourceMaddy's Blog on Red Light and SleepBook reference: French Children Don't Throw Food (Affiliate Link)Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

  2. Sep 18

    When Should You Start Tummy Time with a Newborn? Is it safe, how much Tummy Time should you do, and exactly how should you do it?

    Struggling with tummy time? In this episode paediatric physiotherapist, Lisa goes back to basics on one of the most confusing and most important parts of early infant development. You'll learn why babies today get far less tummy time than previous generations (safe sleep guidelines, car seats and bouncers), and how that's linked to issues like baby flat head syndrome and delayed gross motor skills. Lisa breaks down exactly how to build a safe tummy time space at home and how contact naps on your chest count as tummy time. She also talks through simple techniques like anchoring the bottom, using a slight wedge, and elbow-plank positioning to help babies who resist tummy time. Whether you're expecting or already navigating a tummy-time-averse baby, this episode gives you a clear, safety-first roadmap. In this episode: Building a genuinely safe space for supervised tummy/side napsBreathing safety: surface, firmness, airflow and positioningHow contact naps and side-lying count toward tummy timeSimple techniques to make awake tummy time easier (bottom anchor, wedge, elbow plank)How to introduce tummy time gently without building negative associationsWhat to do if your baby has a head-turning preferenceMentioned in this episode:Lisa's new clinic rooms at the Osteoperformance Clinic, Wimbledon (Tuesdays). Book a face to face session at the clinic here or remote session hereTotter and Tumble play mats (affiliate link)Next week's episode: a conversation with sleep consultant Maddie Thompson of Balanced Bedtime Sleep ConsultancyConnect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

  3. Aug 7

    10 Household Items to Help Babies with or without Developmental Delay: Help your Baby Crawl, Walk and Get Strong!

    Want to help your baby crawl, sit, stand and walk using things you already own? In this episode, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers shares 10 everyday household items that can boost your baby's gross motor development and strengthen their muscles safely and enjoyably.  In this episode you'll learn:  Why floor time is the single most important activity for baby development  How a simple changing mat can provide valuable sensory stimulation  Why stairs are one of the best tools for learning to crawl  How to safely use your sofa to encourage pulling to stand  Ways to use a cot mattress and sofa cushions to build strength  Why your bed creates the perfect strengthening challenge  How a coffee table can improve balance, coordination and ball skills  Sensory activities using scatter cushions  How clothes pegs can strengthen your child's hands, core and coordination  Why expensive baby equipment is often unnecessary for healthy motor development Links Mentioned  Totter + Tumble Play Mats (affiliate link)  Pull-to-Stand YouTube Tutorial Developmental Miniseries - Best for Baby PodcastIf you found this episode helpful, please: ⭐ Follow the Best for Baby Podcast ⭐ Leave a review to help more parents discover evidence-based advice ⭐ Share this episode with another parent Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

  4. Jul 31

    Six Ways to Reduce Risk of Traumatic Birth: Inductions, Epidurals & C-Sections (and more!)

    In this eye-opening episode, Lisa is joined by Gina Mundy, a childbirth attorney who has spent more than 23 years analysing thousands of cases where childbirth complications have resulted in lifelong injury and disability. Drawing on decades of experience, Gina has transformed what she's learned into practical guidance for expectant parents. Her mission is to help families reduce the risk of birth complications before labour even begins. Together, Lisa and Gina explore the common patterns seen in traumatic births, why understanding your options during labour is so important, and how parents can confidently advocate for themselves throughout the birth process. The six key ways to reduce risk discussed in this episode: 1. Slow down oxytocin: Ask for oxytocin (also known as Syntocinon or Pitocin) to be administered slowly and kept at the lowest effective dose. 2. Prepare before labour: Learn about the birth process and your options before contractions begin. 3. Consider hiring a doula:  Discover how continuous support during labour can improve the birth experience. 4. Choose your hospital carefully: Understand why your choice of maternity unit can influence outcomes. 5. Learn to understand your baby's heart rate:  Become familiar with the terminology healthcare professionals use and what it means. 6. Know your options for assisted birth:  Understand the benefits and risks of forceps, vacuum extraction (ventouse/Kiwi cup), and emergency Caesarean section so you can make informed decisions if the situation arises. This is an invaluable episode for anyone preparing for childbirth and wanting to understand the practical steps they can take to help achieve the safest possible birth. Resources mentioned A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth by Gina Mundy (affiliate link) The Childbirth Attorney Podcast with Gina Mundy: Here If you require paediatric physiotherapy or EHCP support for your child, you can get in touch with Lisa here. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

  5. Jul 24

    Neurodivergence, Birth Injury & Cerebral Palsy: What Parents Should Know

    Can traumatic birth cause cerebral palsy? What exactly is cerebral palsy? Can it be prevented or cured? In this deeply personal episode, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers Sergeant shares a side of her career she has rarely spoken about publicly. After spending more than 25 years working with babies and children including children with complex neurological conditions, Lisa explains how cerebral palsy can be linked to traumatic birth, how neurological disorders can affect movement and development, and why there is always hope. Rather than creating fear, this episode aims to build understanding, compassion and awareness for children living with neurological disabilities and their families. Lisa also explains: • What happens when the brain is injured before, during or shortly after birth • The incredible ability of a baby's brain to adapt through neuroplasticity • How physiotherapy and early intervention can dramatically influence outcomes • What EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) are and how they support children in school • CMV (cytomegalovirus) infection during pregnancy and why every expectant parent should know about it • Why she chose an elective caesarean section after years of working with children affected by birth injuries This episode is also the introduction to a special two-part series. Next week, Lisa is joined by childbirth attorney Gina Mundy, who explains practical ways parents can reduce the risk of birth injury and discusses what every family should know before labour begins. Whether you're pregnant, planning a family, or simply want a better understanding of childhood neurological conditions, this is an episode filled with compassion, education and hope. Mentioned in this episode Gina Mundy : The Childbirth Attorney Podcast : https://www.youtube.com/@UCWk3fI8M6sQyXRuolBn5IFw  If you had a traumatic birth and would like to discuss this with Lisa, see how she can help here: https://physiobaby.co.uk/neuro-physio Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

  6. Jul 17

    Swaddling: Is it Safe? Swaddling mistakes that can harm your baby (and the right way to swaddle)

    Can swaddling be harmful to your baby's development? The short answer is Yes! If done incorrectly, swaddling can affect your baby's development, cause upper limb stiffness and make a baby uncomfortable! In this episode, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers Sergeant explains how incorrect swaddling techniques interfere with your baby's movement and development; and how to swaddle safely. You'll learn why babies naturally sleep better when they feel supported, how the Back to Sleep campaign continues to save lives but also changed infant sleep, and why swaddling can be a wonderful tool when it's done correctly. In this episode you'll learn: • The difference between safe and unsafe swaddling. • Why correct swaddling helps babies sleep. • Why your baby's arm position matters. • When you should stop swaddling. • How to transition your baby out of a swaddle safely. 🎁 FREE Swaddling Video Tutorial Learn exactly how to swaddle your baby safely, with step-by-step demonstrations: HERE If you have any concerns regarding your baby's development and well being including head shape, torticollis or positional talipes, you'll also find free resources and Lisa's online courses here: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with another parent. Every share helps more families get evidence-informed advice. Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

  7. Jul 10

    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!

  8. 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!

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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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