The Toddle About Show

Toddle About
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The Toddle About Show is the parenting podcast for families with babies, toddlers and preschool children aged 0–5. Hosted by Bill and Emily Clapson, each episode brings honest conversations, practical parenting advice, real-life hacks, expert insights and inspiring stories from the people supporting young families. Featuring child development specialists, local businesses and parents navigating everyday life, The Toddle About Show helps you feel more confident, connected and prepared for the adventure of raising little ones.

  1. 4h ago

    Is Your Child Really Ready for School? 5 Skills They Need Before Reception

    Starting school is a huge milestone for children and parents but what does it actually mean for a child to be "school ready"? In this episode of The Toddle About Show, Bill and Emily Clapson look beyond school uniforms, reading and writing to talk about the everyday skills that can make the transition into Reception much easier. They share five practical things they believe children benefit from being able to do before starting school: using the toilet independently, putting on their coat and getting dressed, recognising their own name, eating lunch independently and understanding simple instructions. They also talk about the importance of building independence at home, getting children used to routines, waiting their turn and sharing attention with other children. The conversation then turns to choosing a school. Bill and Emily discuss what they looked for when choosing their children's school, why visiting open days can be so valuable, why you should talk to existing parents, teachers and governors, and why the "feel" and community of a school can sometimes matter just as much as its results. They also discuss SEND provision, school admissions and the importance of checking the individual admissions criteria for each school. And there's a surprising connection between physical activity and handwriting. Emily explains why posture, core strength, shoulder and wrist strength, coordination and fine motor skills can all contribute to developing good handwriting meaning activities such as dance, sport and physical play can have benefits that go far beyond simply keeping children active. Finally, parenting coach Carolina Taylor shares some advice on the emotional side of starting school, including talking to children about their feelings, helping them understand that it's possible to feel nervous and excited at the same time, and finding simple ways to reassure them when they miss you. Whether your child is starting Reception soon or you've got a few years before school is on the horizon, this episode is packed with practical ideas to help make the transition a little less overwhelming. Useful resources: For families in England, the Department for Education's latest guidance on getting children ready for Reception focuses on confidence, independence, wellbeing and everyday skills such as using the toilet, getting dressed, listening to instructions, taking turns and managing belongings. You can also find information about applying for a primary school place through your local council, including key application deadlines and the admissions process. And if you're looking for local activities that can help children develop confidence, coordination and physical skills, head to the Toddle About website to find classes and groups in your area. Find out more about Toddle About and discover local activities, classes and groups for babies, toddlers and young children: https://www.toddleabout.co.uk/ Connect with Carolina Taylor:Website: www.carolinataylor.com (Book a discovery call!)

    Is Your Child Really Ready for School? 5 Skills They Need Before Reception

  2. Aug 25

    Pregnancy & Birth: Expectations vs Reality, Birth Plans & Hypnobirthing

    In Episode 3 of Season 3 of The Toddle About Show, Bill and Emily Clapson talk honestly about pregnancy and birth expectations versus reality. When you're expecting your first baby, there is an enormous amount to learn but how much of what you hear actually prepares you for pregnancy, labour and bringing your baby home? Bill and Emily share their own experiences, including the things they wish they'd known before having children, the reality of making a birth plan, dealing with unexpected medical concerns, and why it's OK to ask questions and advocate for yourself during pregnancy and birth. They also discuss hypnobirthing, doulas and the different types of support available before, during and after birth. Emily explains why she wishes she'd known more about hypnobirthing, while both Bill and Emily reflect on how valuable additional support can be for parents-to-be.  The conversation also explores the dangers of relying too heavily on Google when something unexpected appears during pregnancy, why online stories can make everything seem worse than it is, and why finding reliable information and the right people to support you can make such a difference. Whether you're pregnant, planning a family, preparing for your first baby or supporting someone through pregnancy, this episode is a reminder that you can prepare without expecting everything to go exactly to plan. Useful Resources Emily Guiver – Antenatal & Hypnobirthing Teacher, Newborn Care Specialist & Paediatric Sleep Coachhttps://seedwellness.co.uk/emilyguiver/Toddle About Article - Why Postnatal Recovery Matters by Sophie Messagerhttps://www.toddleabout.co.uk/news/why-postnatal-recovery-matters/Toddle About Article - I'm a Midwife and Health Visitor : Here's the One Thing New Parents Are Too Polite to Tell You https://www.toddleabout.co.uk/parenting/im-a-midwife-and-health-visitor-heres-the-one-thing-new-parents-are-too-polite-to-tell-you/Toddle About Pregnancy Articles https://www.toddleabout.co.uk/parenting/category/pregnancyNHS - Preparing for Labour and BirthA useful starting point covering birth plans, where to give birth, pain relief, hospital bags, hypnobirthing and more. https://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/pregnancy/preparing-for-labour-and-birth/ NHS - What to Include in Your Birth PlanThe NHS explains what you can consider when creating your birth plan and recommends discussing your choices with your midwife. https://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/pregnancy/preparing-for-labour-and-birth/what-to-include-in-your-birth-plan/ NHS - Antenatal & Hypnobirthing ClassesInformation about antenatal education and what hypnobirthing involves, including relaxation, breathing and visualisation techniques. https://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/pregnancy/preparing-for-labour-and-birth/what-to-include-in-your-birth-plan/?utm_source=chatgpt.comPlease remember that the podcast is intended for general information and discussion rather than individual medical or sleep advice. Always check current guidance from appropriate professionals and trusted organisations.To find out more about Toddle About do make sure you head to https://www.toddleabout.co.uk and subscribe to the FREE magazine.

    Pregnancy & Birth: Expectations vs Reality, Birth Plans & Hypnobirthing

  3. Aug 11

    Baby & Toddler Sleep: Myths, Safe Sleep & Bedtime Tips for Parents

    Why won't my baby sleep? Are sleep regressions real? Should you have a strict bedtime routine? And what does safe sleep actually look like? In Episode 2 of Season 3 of The Toddle About Show, Bill and Emily Clapson tackle one of the biggest challenges for parents of babies and young children: sleep. They explore common baby sleep questions and myths, from night waking and sleep regressions to bedtime routines and the pressure parents can put on themselves when their child's sleep doesn't match expectations. Bill and Emily also discuss safer sleep, including sleeping position, keeping the cot clear, using a firm and flat sleep surface, room temperature and room sharing during the first six months. For the latest safer-sleep guidance, always check the Lullaby Trust's official advice. The episode also features sleep advice from Melanie Hastings, The Sleep Nanny, plus real-life bedtime routines and tips from Toddle About franchisees Bethan from Toddle About Warwickshire and Jade from Toddle About Suffolk. Whether you're dealing with night waking, bedtime battles, sleep regressions or simply wondering whether your child's sleep is "normal", this episode offers practical advice and, most importantly, reassurance that you're not alone. THE TODDLE ABOUT SHOW The parenting podcast for families with children aged 0–5, hosted by Bill and Emily Clapson. Expect honest conversations, parenting advice, practical hacks and insights from experts and businesses supporting young families. USEFUL RESOURCES Toddle About: Improving Babies' Sleep https://www.toddleabout.co.uk/parenting/improving-babies-sleep/ Toddle About: Are Sleep Regressions a Myth? https://www.toddleabout.co.uk/parenting/are-sleep-regressions-a-myth/ The Lullaby Trust: Safer Sleep Information https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/baby-safety/safer-sleep-information/ Melanie Hastings: The Sleep Nanny Blog https://site.melaniehastings.sleepnanny.co.uk/blogs Please remember that the podcast is intended for general information and discussion rather than individual medical or sleep advice. Always check current guidance from appropriate professionals and trusted organisations.

    Baby & Toddler Sleep: Myths, Safe Sleep & Bedtime Tips for Parents

  4. Jul 28

    Surviving a Heatwave with Babies & Toddlers | Parenting Tips, Summer Hacks & Safety Advice

    Welcome to Season 3 and the brand-new The Toddle About Show! Bill and Emily Clapson kick off the new format with what feels like a very relevant conversation about parenting through a summer heatwave. As parents themselves Bill and Emily have been at the coal face just like you…trying to keep the kids, the house and each other cool in what has felt like a never ending heatwave here in the UK. In this episode they chat about their own experiences as parents, keeping babies and young children cool, encouraging hydration, managing difficult bedtimes, staying safe in the sun and finding practical ways to survive those sleepless, sticky nights. While they share the parenting hacks that have worked for their own family remember Bill and Emily are not medical experts so do please seek professional advice where needed. To launch the new series, Bill and Emily are also joined by two of Toddle About's franchise owners, Bethan from Toddle About Warwickshire and Jade from Toddle About Suffolk, who each share their favourite summer parenting tips and heatwave survival hacks. The Toddle About Show is your fortnightly parenting companion, bringing together real conversations, practical advice and expert insights for families with children aged 0–5. In this episode: • Keeping babies and toddlers cool in hot weather• Summer safety tips for parents• Hydration ideas for young children• Sleep tips during heatwaves• Pram safety in the sun• Parenting hacks from real mums• Advice from Toddle About franchisees Subscribe for new episodes featuring parenting advice, child development experts and businesses supporting families through the early years. To find out more about Toddle About do make sure you head to https://www.toddleabout.co.uk and subscribe to the FREE magazine.

    Surviving a Heatwave with Babies & Toddlers | Parenting Tips, Summer Hacks & Safety Advice

  5. Jul 7

    How Rugby Tots Builds Confidence Through Play | Tom Brown | Tod Talks

    Is Rugby Tots really about rugby? Not exactly. In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson speaks with Tom Brown from Rugby Tots about how their structured play programme helps children build confidence, coordination, communication skills and physical literacy through fun, imaginative activities. From obstacle courses and relay races to creative games involving frogs, dinosaurs and rugby balls, Rugby Tots uses play-based learning to help children develop key life skills while having fun alongside their parents. Tom explains why parent involvement is so important, how the sessions are carefully structured to support development, and why Rugby Tots is suitable for children regardless of whether they ever play rugby in the future. If you're looking for a fun, active class that supports your child's development while creating special shared experiences, this episode is well worth a listen. Find your local class and book a free taster session through Rugby Tots. Find out more about Tom and his work at https://www.rugbytots.co.uk About Toddle About: Tod Talks is powered by Toddle About, the UK’s ultimate resource for parents of 0-5 year olds and the businesses that support them. Subscribe to the Magazine or feature your business: https://toddleabout.co.uk Want to be a guest or sponsor the show? Email us at: ⁠bill@toddleabout.co.uk⁠ Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/

    How Rugby Tots Builds Confidence Through Play | Tom Brown | Tod Talks

  6. Jul 3

    Navigating Autism, SEND Support & EHCPs | Liz McCarthy from SENDHUGS | Tod Talks

    What should you do if you think your child may need additional support? In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson sits down with Liz McCarthy from SENDHUGS to discuss autism, neurodiversity, SEND support and the challenges many parents face when trying to access help for their children. Drawing on her experience as both a parent of autistic children and a SEND advocate, Liz explains how parents can identify concerns, work with schools, seek professional support and navigate the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process. She also shares why understanding behaviour as communication can transform the way families approach challenges and support their children. This is an essential conversation for parents, carers and anyone wanting to better understand the SEND journey. Find out more about Liz and her work at https://www.sendhugs.co.uk About Toddle About: Tod Talks is powered by Toddle About, the UK’s ultimate resource for parents of 0-5 year olds and the businesses that support them. Subscribe to the Magazine or feature your business: https://toddleabout.co.uk Want to be a guest or sponsor the show? Email us at: ⁠bill@toddleabout.co.uk⁠ Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/

    Navigating Autism, SEND Support & EHCPs | Liz McCarthy from SENDHUGS | Tod Talks

  7. Jun 30

    The Hidden Reality of Motherhood: Understanding Matrescence | Rebecca Hogan | Tod Talks

    Have you ever heard of matrescence? In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson speaks with author and coach Rebecca Hogan about the life-changing transition into motherhood and the inspiration behind her book, Me to We. Rebecca explains why becoming a parent is about far more than caring for a baby. It's also about rediscovering who you are, navigating major emotional and physical changes, and learning to thrive through one of the biggest transformations of your life. Drawing from her own fertility journey, coaching experience and personal reflections, Rebecca shares practical insights to help parents understand that struggling doesn't mean you're failing—it means you're human. If you're a parent, expecting a baby, or supporting someone through early parenthood, this conversation is packed with reassurance, understanding and valuable perspective. Listen now and discover why motherhood is a journey, not a destination. Find out more about Rebecca and her work at https://rebeccahogan.co.uk About Toddle About: Tod Talks is powered by Toddle About, the UK’s ultimate resource for parents of 0-5 year olds and the businesses that support them. Subscribe to the Magazine or feature your business: https://toddleabout.co.uk Want to be a guest or sponsor the show? Email us at: ⁠bill@toddleabout.co.uk⁠ Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/

    The Hidden Reality of Motherhood: Understanding Matrescence | Rebecca Hogan | Tod Talks

  8. Jun 26

    Creating Calm for Babies and Parents with Little Glow Aylesbury

    In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson sits down with Charli Slade, owner of Little Glow Aylesbury and Bunny Hop Bookshop. After losing her mum to lung cancer and facing challenges around flexible working, Charli made the bold decision to leave employed life behind and step into self-employment. What followed was the launch of two businesses dedicated to supporting babies, children and families. Charli explains how Little Glow's sensory sessions provide a calm, welcoming environment for pre-walking babies to explore lights, sounds, textures and movement while giving parents valuable time to relax, connect and recharge. She also shares how she's expanding her knowledge through SEND training and why supporting parental wellbeing is such an important part of what she does. The conversation also explores Bunny Hop Bookshop, Charli's independent Usborne partnership and pre-loved children's book business, which helps families access affordable, engaging books while promoting sustainability and reuse. Find out more about Little Glow at https://aylesbury1.thelittlesensory.co About Toddle About: Tod Talks is powered by Toddle About, the UK’s ultimate resource for parents of 0-5 year olds and the businesses that support them. Subscribe to the Magazine or feature your business: https://toddleabout.co.uk Want to be a guest or sponsor the show? Email us at: ⁠bill@toddleabout.co.uk⁠ Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/ Subscribe for more conversations with local businesses, family experts and inspiring entrepreneurs. #SensoryPlay #BabyDevelopment #ParentingPodcast #LittleGlow #TodTalks #EarlyYears #Aylesbury #ParentingSupport #UsborneBooks #SmallBusinessUK

    Creating Calm for Babies and Parents with Little Glow Aylesbury
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About

The Toddle About Show is the parenting podcast for families with babies, toddlers and preschool children aged 0–5. Hosted by Bill and Emily Clapson, each episode brings honest conversations, practical parenting advice, real-life hacks, expert insights and inspiring stories from the people supporting young families. Featuring child development specialists, local businesses and parents navigating everyday life, The Toddle About Show helps you feel more confident, connected and prepared for the adventure of raising little ones.

Information

  • Creator
    Toddle About
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Toddle About
  • Show Website
    The Toddle About Show