Should you use a dummy for your newborn — or is there a gentler way to soothe them? In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I’m exploring 7 shocking downsides of newborn dummies and sharing simple, calming alternatives that really work.

You’ll learn:

• Why over-reliance on dummies can delay self-soothing and even affect speech.
• How newborn dummies can become a habit that’s tricky to break later.
• Gentle, sensory-rich strategies — from music to baby massage — that help your baby feel safe and settled without depending on a dummy.

Whether you call it a dummy or a pacifier, you’ll discover practical tools to comfort your baby and build lasting connection right from the start.

👉 If you’ve ever wondered how to ease your infant without relying on dummies, this episode is packed with ideas to help you feel calmer and more confident.

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of First Time Mum’s Chat. For links and resources mentioned, check the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/193.

Ever wondered how to nurture sibling love without the sibling rivalry—or the tears? In this heartwarming episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, we share 5 powerful, practical steps you can take today to foster bonding newborn and toddler… and yes, you’ll do it without tears!

We dive into:

• Creating a special helper role that makes your toddler feel big and important
• Establishing a comforting big sibling routine filled with predictability and fun
• Preparing them emotionally with engaging stories and baby-inclusive rituals
• Encouraging toddler-friendly bonding moments during baby care
• Celebrating their growing role and validating big emotions—without overwhelm

These positive steps for sibling bonding are gently explained, joyous, and especially designed for real-life family rhythms.

Whether you're desperate to ease toddler jealousy or simply seeking stress-free ways to bond your toddler with your infant, this episode is your roadmap to a loving, harmonious home.

Hit play to support your toddler in becoming the confident, caring big sibling they were born to be.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/192.

Feeling unsure about your feeding choices? You’re not alone. In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I share 5 pieces of infant feeding advice to help you let go of guilt and feel more confident — whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding, combo feeding, or still figuring it out.

We’ll bust some of the most common and harmful myths about feeding your baby, including why “breastfeeding is natural so it should be easy” isn’t the whole story, and why flexibility in feeding is a strength, not a weakness. You’ll walk away with clarity, reassurance, and practical tips you can use right now.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• 5 infant feeding myths that cause unnecessary guilt
• Why both breast and bottle feeding can build deep bonds
• How to respond when pain or challenges arise
• The truth about switching feeding methods
• How to focus on presence, love, and connection over method

Whether you’re navigating newborn days or adjusting feeding routines, this episode will help you breathe easier and trust yourself more. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/191.