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. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. May 1

    E 21: Struggling with Breastfeeding? Latch, Milk Supply and Newborn Feeding Explained

    Breastfeeding is often described as “natural”—but for many mums, it’s anything but easy. In this episode, I’m joined by lactation consultant and paediatric nurse Michelle Kuteyi of the Baby Care Consultancy, who shares clear, practical strategies to help you feel confident feeding your baby, whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or combining both. We cover everything from painful latch and low milk supply to cluster feeding and newborn feeding cues, with simple explanations that will completely change how you approach feeding in those early weeks. If you’ve ever felt confused, overwhelmed, or unsure if your baby is getting enough milk, this episode is for you. 🎯 What You’ll Learn:  The CHINS method for a pain-free, effective latch  How to tell if your baby is getting enough milk (without guessing) The real reason babies feed so frequently in the early days  What cluster feeding actually means  The biggest mistake affecting milk supply (and how to fix it)  Why pumping output doesn’t reflect your actual supply How to transition from breast to bottle without refusal The truth about foods, teas, and “milk-boosting” products👶 Key Takeaways:  Breastfeeding is a learned skill for both mum and baby Frequent feeding in the early days is normal and necessary Milk supply works on supply and demand, not schedules A painful latch is not normal and can be fixed Babies don’t just feed for hunger - they feed for regulation and comfort🧠 Practical Tips You Can Start Today:  Feed your baby based on cues, not the clock Aim for 8–10 feeds per day in the early weeks  Use nappies (wet + dirty) to track intake  Prioritise night feeds or pumping to protect supply  Keep baby close, supported, and aligned when feeding  Don’t compare your journey to others—especially online 💛 Support & Resources: If you’re struggling with feeding, you’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. You can connect with Michelle here! Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    1h 1m
  6. Apr 24

    E20: Doulas, Home Births and Hospital Births: How Doulas Support Calm, Confident Births

    In this episode of the Best For Baby Podcast, I’m joined by experienced doula Emma Inglefield, founder of By Your Side Doula, to explore how doulas can completely transform your pregnancy, birth, and postnatal experience. If you’ve ever felt anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure about childbirth, this conversation will open your eyes to what’s truly possible. Emma shares what a doula actually does, how to prepare for a calm and confident birth and the powerful role of mindset, environment, and support during labour. We also dive into birth choices, including home birth vs hospital birth, the realities of induction, and how to feel informed and in control of your decisions. Whether you’re pregnant, planning a baby, or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you feel more empowered, informed, and confident. 💛 Key Takeaway Birth doesn’t have to be something you fear. With the right preparation and support, it can be a calm, empowering, and positive experience whatever path your birth takes. 🔗 Resources & Links  Connect with Emma Inglefield: By Your Side Doula  Free virtual coffee mornings for mums  Birth partner workshops & antenatal preparation  Monthly miscarriage support group 👶 Loved This Episode? Make sure to follow the podcast and share this episode with a mum-to-be who needs to hear this 💛 Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    1h 1m
  7. Apr 16

    E19: Tongue Ties, Breastfeeding and C-Section Scars: How Osteopathy can Help Mums and Babies, with Stephanie James

    Worried about tongue tie, breastfeeding struggles, tummy time, or your baby’s head shape? Learn practical, expert advice from an osteopath on how to support your baby’s development and your recovery after birth. In this episode, Lisa is joined by Stephanie James, founder of The Osteoperformance Clinic in London. Stephanie explains how the body is deeply interconnected and why gentle, hands-on therapy can make a powerful difference for both babies and mothers. This episode focuses on the physical reasons behind common challenges and offers clear, practical guidance to help you feel more confident in what to do next. ⭐ Key Advice from This Episode  🤱 Feeding & Latching Difficulties Stephanie explains that many feeding issues are not simply due to tongue tie. Instead, they are often caused by:  Tension or restriction in the neck and jaw  Compression during birth (forceps, ventouse, or C-section)  Reduced movement affecting the nerves to the tongue 👉 Her key advice:  Don’t assume it’s tongue tie straight away  Consider a non-invasive approach like osteopathy first Remember: “Don't blame yourself—there is often a restriction in baby's body causing the difficulty”🤸‍♀️ Tummy Time (Her Biggest Advice) Stephanie explains it’s essential not just for strength but also for:  Brain development  Integration of primitive reflexes  Coordination and future learning skills She links lack of tummy time to:  Delayed development  Retained reflexes  Attention and coordination difficulties later on 👉 Important point she makes: If a baby can’t do tummy time, it’s not because they’re being difficult— it may be due to a physical restriction in the body. 🚫 Containers & Baby Movement Stephanie advises limiting time in:  Bouncers  Car seats  Other “containers” 👉 Her key message: Babies need time on the floor to:  Move freely  Explore movement  Develop properly 💛 C-Section Recovery (For Mums) Stephanie highlights that C-sections are often under-recognised in recovery. She explains that scar tissue can:  Create tightness and adhesions  Affect the pelvis, hips, and lower back  Impact overall movement 👉 Her advice:  Osteopathy can help release scar tissue—even years later  Treatment often improves movement and reduces discomfort  Emotional release during treatment can also happen, especially after traumatic births 🎯 Key Takeaway Before jumping to invasive treatments or assuming the worst, consider whether your baby’s body may just need support to move more freely. Links Mentioned: The Osteoperformance Clinic  The Tomatis Method Connect with Lisa here! For help on:  Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here! Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!

    55 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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