A Parent's Guide to Child Development

Annamarie von Firley

Let's face it—nobody ever went to college to learn how to raise a baby. Everyone is just making it up as they go along. "A Parent's Guide to Child Development" is your lifeline to expert wisdom. Learn about the most important information that you didn't know existed. Hosted by Annamarie von Firley from Fledglings' Flight, this podcast gathers insights from experts in child development such as pediatric OTs, speech language pathologists, child psychologists, lactation consultants, & more, delivering practical tips & actionable advice to help optimize your child's development.

  1. SEP 20

    How Play Shapes Child Development - A Parent's Guide to Child Development

    Play isn’t just fun — it’s the foundation of your child’s learning, growth, and confidence. Host Annamarie Von Firley talks with Dr. Celina Moore, a board‑certified pediatrician with 20+ years of experience, about how play evolves from infancy through the preschool years. Discover why play is essential for brain development, social‑emotional growth, and motor skills — and learn practical ways to support your child at every stage. From tummy time to pretend play, from parallel play to kindergarten readiness, this conversation is packed with expert insights and actionable tips for parents Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction01:30 – Why Play Matters03:00 – Play in Infancy12:00 – Early Play Stages17:00 – Onlooker Play21:00 – Parallel Play28:00 – Play at Ages 2–334:00 – Play at Ages 3–440:00 – Play at Ages 4–549:00 – Caregiver’s Role53:00 – Screens & Development56:00 – Key Takeaways58:00 – Closing About Dr. Celina Moore She is a board certified pediatrician dedicated to delivering personalized, relationship‑based medical care for children and their families. As the founder of the concierge pediatric practice, Moore Healthy Kids, she combines the highest standards of clinical excellence with a warm, attentive approach that prioritizes accessibility, trust, and continuity. Beyond her private practice, Dr. Moore serves as the Medical Director of the Akoma Ntoso Foundation, a nonprofit organization that she founded with her husband, Steven. ANF provides healthcare outreach, education, and resources to underserved communities in rural Ghana. Her commitment to service extends globally and locally, reflecting her belief that every child deserves compassionate, quality medical care—no matter where they live. Links Website: moorehealthykids.comInstagram: @moorehealthykidsPhone: 561-834-5528 About Annamarie von Firley After 20 years of owning and running her own fashion house, reVamp, Annamarie von Firley returned to her toy design roots. With a BA in Wooden Toy Design and Construction and a BFA in Furniture Design, she took her knowledge of child development and expertise in play to found Adventuretown Toy Emporium in 2016. In the summer of 2020, it became apparent to her that pandemic lockdowns were going to have a profound effect on the development of babies born after 2018. About Fledglings' Flight At Fledglings’ Flight, we understand that every child is unique and deserves the best opportunities for growth and learning. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of play‑based exercises specifically designed for children from birth to 3 years of age. These exercises are carefully curated to stimulate their cognitive, motor, and social‑emotional development. With our user‑friendly app, parents and caregivers have access to a library of engaging exercises that change monthly. You can customize your daily routine by selecting exercises that align with your child's developmental needs. As a Basic Member, you can track your child's milestones and receive insights into their progress. For even more personalized guidance, our Premium Members gain access to a developmental profile. Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/ Music: Purple Planet Music

    55 min
  2. SEP 6

    The Science of Sleep: Helping Babies, Toddlers & Parents Rest Better

    Sleep is one of the biggest challenges for new parents — and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we sit down with sleep expert Diana Zales to answer the questions parents are asking most about healthy rest for babies, toddlers, and themselves. From understanding how much sleep children really need at each stage, to decoding night wakings, naps, and sleep regressions, Diana shares practical strategies backed by science and compassion. We’ll tackle hot topics like: How baby and adult sleep cycles differ Whether sleep training causes emotional harm The best time and method to start sleep training Navigating night feedings, naps on the go, and early morning wakeups How parental sleep deprivation impacts mental health What role screens, light, and supplements play in sleep quality If you’ve ever felt exhausted, anxious at bedtime, or unsure of the “right” approach, this episode is here to give you clarity, reassurance, and tools to help the whole family rest easier. About Diana: As a pediatric sleep consultant, Diana believes in personalized sleep solutions, tailored to each family’s goals and their child’s needs. As an advocate for safe sleep practices and positive sleep habits, she works closely with families to create plans that parents feel confident and comfortable implementing. Her journey began with a deep dive into infant sleep when her daughter was born, driven by her commitment to fostering healthy sleep habits while nurturing our bond. Certified through the Center of Pediatric Sleep Management, Diana is dedicated to supporting families in achieving their sleep goals with effective, compassionate care. Website: https://www.zzzsbyzales.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/zzzsbyzales/ About Annamarie von Firley: After 20 years of owning & running her own fashion house, reVamp, Annamarie von Firley returned to her toy design roots. With a BA in Wooden Toy Design & Construction & a BFA in Furniture Design, she took her knowledge of child development & expertise in play to found Adventuretown Toy Emporium in 2016. In the Summer of 2020, it became apparent to her that pandemic lockdowns were going to have a profound effect on the development of babies born after 2018. About Fledglings' Flight: We understand that every child is unique & deserves the best opportunities for growth & learning. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of play-based exercises specifically designed for children from birth to 3 years of age. These exercises are carefully curated to stimulate their cognitive, motor, & social-emotional development.With our user-friendly app, parents & caregivers have access to a library of engaging exercises that change monthly. You can customize your daily routine by selecting exercises that align with your child's developmental needs. As a Basic Member, you can track your child's milestones & receive insights into their progress. For even more personalized guidance, our Premium Members gain access to a developmental profile. Follow us: Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.Flight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/ Music: Purple Planet Music

    46 min

About

Let's face it—nobody ever went to college to learn how to raise a baby. Everyone is just making it up as they go along. "A Parent's Guide to Child Development" is your lifeline to expert wisdom. Learn about the most important information that you didn't know existed. Hosted by Annamarie von Firley from Fledglings' Flight, this podcast gathers insights from experts in child development such as pediatric OTs, speech language pathologists, child psychologists, lactation consultants, & more, delivering practical tips & actionable advice to help optimize your child's development.