The Baby Playbook

In this episode of The Baby Playbook, your host Nikolina Kharoufeh dives into one of the most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — milestones in your baby’s first year: starting solids. 🍎🥄Nikolina shares her personal journey of introducing solids to her little one — the wins, the messes, and the moments that taught her what really matters. From knowing when your baby is ready, to choosing between purées and baby-led weaning, to managing the inevitable mess (and anxiety!), Nikolina offers practical tips, honest reflections, and plenty of reassurance for parents navigating this new stage.Whether you’re a first-time parent or just looking for a fresh perspective, this episode will help you feel more confident, relaxed, and informed as you start your baby’s food adventure.#TheBabyPlaybook #StartingSolids #BabyMilestones #FirstFoods #BabyLedWeaning #ParentingTips #NewMumLife #FeedingJourney #MumHacks #BabyNutritionLINKS:Grab a copy of Save Our Sleep Feeding here (25%use the special code ‘PLAYBOOKS25’): https://www.saveoursleep.com/product-category/books-app-advice/books/Check out Nourishing Bubs here: https://www.nourishingbubs.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=pmax_remarketing_11_feb_24&utm_content=all_assets&utm_term=non_purchasers&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21018097402&gbraid=0AAAAADH8g23XLUt3ryftQH_stA2lrs-Lr&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmYzIBhC6ARIsAHA3IkRgWUOf6Bdr1DCg2TSUL8wysfvH4iyZQ-uRX-SEz5z1qKD2-LTkGeEaAhaHEALw_wcBCheck out the Allergen Website here: https://preventallergies.org.au/Get a Catchy here: https://catchyandcrew.com.au/?srsltid=AfmBOor3dqJF0nUczkDigcFLYvh686Nv16jc0jpotPEmd0XwB7z64swL Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, we’re joined by nutritionist Cat Dean to dive into one of the biggest milestones in your baby’s first year — starting solids! Cat shares her expert insights on how to choose nutrient-dense foods to support your baby’s growth and development, plus practical tips for making mealtimes positive and low-stress for both you and your little one.We’ll cover: 🍎 The best first foods for your baby — and why nutrient density matters 🥑 How to introduce variety and flavor early on 🥣 Simple strategies for meal prep without feeling overwhelmed 🧡 Creating a calm, confident approach to feeding that supports lifelong healthy eating habitsWhether you’re just starting solids or looking to make family mealtimes smoother, this episode is full of reassuring, evidence-based advice to help you feel empowered and inspired in the kitchen.#TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #StartingSolids #BabyNutrition #CatDeanNutrition #NutrientDenseFoods #BabyLedWeaning #FeedingTips #HealthyBabies #StressFreeMealtimes #NewParentSupportLINKS:Follow Cat Dean Here: https://www.instagram.com/little.vegan.eats Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re joined by sleep expert and experienced midwife Jazz Kostov, who shares practical, compassionate advice on how mums (and dads!) can optimise rest during the newborn phase. We talk about:Why sleep looks different in the fourth trimesterTips for maximising rest even with broken sleepHow to tune into your baby's natural rhythmsThe myth of "sleep when the baby sleeps"Creating realistic sleep goals for exhausted parentsWhether you're in the thick of newborn nights or preparing for what's to come, this episode is full of supportive insight to help you feel more rested – and a little more human – in those early weeks of parenting.🍼 Because good sleep isn't perfect – it's possible.#NewbornSleep #MumSleep #PostpartumRest #SleepDeprivedMum #NewParentLife #FourthTrimester #ParentingPodcast #RealParentingTalkLINKS:Enter out giveaway here: www.heynikolinak.coFollow Jazz on Instagram @lets_sleep Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, we're joined by baby sleep expert Jazz Kostov to talk all about baby sleep on the go — because life doesn’t stop when you have a baby, and neither should your ability to get out and enjoy it!Whether it’s a coffee run, a day out with friends, or a family road trip, we dive into practical strategies that help parents support healthy naps and sleep routines even when they're not at home. Jazz shares her top tips for managing naps in the pram, car, or carrier, as well as how to protect your baby’s sleep without becoming housebound.If you're a new parent who’s nervous about leaving the house for fear of “wrecking the nap,” this episode will give you the confidence and tools to make it work — for both you and your baby.#TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #BabySleepOnTheGo, #PramNaps#ParentingTips #NewParentLife #SleepSupportForParents #OnTheGoParenting #MomLife #DadLifeLINKS: Enter out giveaway here: www.heynikolinak.coFollow Jazz on Instagram @lets_sleep Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, we sit down with experienced childcare and early learning educator Michelle Danguilan to talk about one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of early childhood: the relationship between parents and their child’s carers.Michelle shares practical advice for building open, respectful communication with your child’s educators, why consistency and trust matter, and how parents can help their little ones feel emotionally safe and secure in a new care environment. From drop-off routines to managing separation anxiety, this conversation is full of helpful tips to support both you and your child through the transition into childcare.Whether you're preparing for your child’s first day or looking to strengthen an existing relationship with your centre, this episode will give you confidence and clarity on how to work with your child’s educators to create the best possible foundation for learning and care.#TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #ParentingTips #ChildcareAdvice #ParentEducatorRelationship #EarlyLearning #DaycareTransition #BuildingTrust #EmotionalSafety #PositiveParentingLINKS:Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode, I sit down with author Nicki Esler Gill, the brilliant mind behind My Body, My Rules—a children’s book that introduces the vital concept of consent in an accessible and empowering way. We dive into why having conversations about consent early on is so important, how parents and caregivers can approach this topic with young children, and the best moments to start these discussions. If you’re looking for practical insights and thoughtful guidance on nurturing respect and boundaries from the very beginning, this episode is for you!LINKS:Follow Nicki here: https://www.instagram.com/nickieslergill/See all the books I love here: https://www.amazon.com.au/shop/heynikolinak/list/1EQ245IXZMLR?ref_=aipsflist Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge #ConsentForKids, #MyBodyMyRules, #ParentingTips, #EarlyEducation, #RespectAndBoundaries, and #TheBabyPlaybookPodcast

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, we're joined by Lauren Perrett, founder of BubbaDesk — a game-changing flexible childcare solution designed with modern parents in mind.Lauren shares her personal journey that led to creating BubbaDesk and dives into the current landscape of childcare in Australia (and beyond). We explore the urgent need for more flexible childcare options, how the financial burden of care impacts parents’ decisions, and the crucial role employers play in supporting postpartum return-to-work transitions.Whether you're a parent navigating care, an employer seeking to do better, or someone who wants to push for change, this episode is packed with insights on how to advocate for more adaptable, affordable, and realistic solutions for your family.LINKS:Checkout BubbaDesk here: https://bubbadesk.com/ Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge #TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #FlexibleChildcare #WorkingParents #PostpartumReturnToWork #BubbaDesk #ChildcareSolutions #WorkLifeBalance #ParentingPodcast #AdvocateForChange #ChildcareCosts #ModernParenting

In this episode of The Baby Playbook, host Nikolina dives into one of the biggest decisions new parents face—choosing the right childcare. She shares her top tips and insider tricks for navigating the search, what to look for during visits, and key questions to ask to ensure your little one is in safe, nurturing hands. Whether you’re exploring daycare centers, in-home care, or nanny options, Nikolina breaks down everything you need to know to make this important choice with confidence and peace of mind.#BabyPlaybook #ChildcareTips #FindingChildcare #ParentingAdvice #ChildcareSearch #DaycareTips #ParentingHacks #ChoosingChildcare #NewParents #MomLife #DadLife #ChildcareJourneyLINKS: Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

Deciding on a daycare for your little one can feel overwhelming. What are you looking for in a center? What questions should you be asking on a tour? How can I ensure my little one is being looked after?To ease the anxiety and stress of finding care and transitioning your baby into care, this week we are focusing on daycare. Jessica Saad has over 10 years experience working in childcare, so she knows all about the system. She shares her tips on how to find a good centre, how to navigate waitlists, what’s the ideal age and amount of days … and everything in between. We also discuss the dreaded emotional drop off! #ParentingPodcast #ChoosingChildcare #ChildcareOptions #InfantCare #DaycareDecisions #NannyOrDaycare #SafeChildcare #ParentingSupport #WorkingParentLife #PodcastEpisode #ListenAndLearnLINKS: The Invisible String by Patrice Karst: https://amzn.to/4ir2GDe Follow Jessica’s Early Learning Centre here: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasearlylearning/?hl=enFollow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re joined by Registered Psychologist Rachel Tomlinson to talk about one of the biggest emotional hurdles many parents face—sending their little one to childcare. We dive into the common anxieties parents experience during this transition, and Rachel shares practical advice on how to manage those feelings while confidently choosing the right childcare centre for your family’s unique needs.But that’s not all—we also explore the crucial topic of body safety. Rachel offers age-appropriate strategies for teaching young children about body autonomy, privacy, and personal boundaries in a way that empowers them and supports healthy development.Whether you're preparing for your child’s first day at daycare or looking to build a strong foundation for body safety from the start, this conversation is packed with expert insights and compassionate guidance to support your parenting journey.LINKS:Connect with Rachel here www.towardwellbeing.comInstagram: @towardwellbeing Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge #TheBabyPlaybook #ParentingPodcast #ChildcareAnxiety #ChildcareTips #ParentingSupport #BodySafety #BodyAutonomy #ToddlersAndPreschoolers #EarlyParenting #ParentingAdvice #RachelTomlinson #ChildPsychologist #FirstDayOfDaycare #ParentingJourney #ConsciousParenting

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, we're joined by educator and founder of E&J Toy Co, Rebecca Naim, for an insightful conversation on how to approach play with your newborn during those crucial first six months.We dive into what babies are actually capable of during this time, what they’re learning through play, and how to support their development with the right tools and environment. Rebecca shares expert tips on:The essential skills newborns are developing from birth to 6 monthsHow to make tummy time more enjoyable (for baby and you!)What toys and play items are actually worth buying — and what to skipGift ideas that support learning, not just clutter the nurseryWhether you're a new parent, gift-giver, or just curious about what purposeful play looks like in those early months, this episode is packed with practical guidance and encouraging insight.Tune in to learn how to confidently support your baby’s development from day one — with play that’s simple, intentional, and rooted in connection.LINKS: Enter our incredible giveaway with E&J Toy Co here: https://heynikolinak.co/  Shop the E&J Toy Co range here: https://www.ejtoyco.com/collections/allCheck out the high contrast book Rebecca talks about here: https://www.mesmerised.com.au/product/high-contrast-baby-book-set/Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge #TheBabyPlaybookPodcast  #NewbornPlay #InfantDevelopment #TummyTimeTips #BestBabyToys #PurposefulPlay #NewParentTips #EarlyLearning

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of The Baby Playbook, we sit down with twin mum Chantae Reden to talk all things twins — from the moment she found out she was expecting two babies, to the whirlwind of navigating the newborn phase.Chantae shares her journey through the medical side of a twin pregnancy, what surprised her most during those early weeks, and the practical ways she saved money without compromising on what her babies needed. We also dive into how she leaned on her community, friends, and family for support — including second-hand gems and baby gear that made a big difference.Whether you're a parent of multiples, expecting twins, or just curious about what it’s really like, this episode is packed with honest insights, tips, and lots of love.🔗 Tune in for real talk, relatable moments, and practical advice from a mum who's been there — twice over.#TheBabyPlaybook #TwinMumLife #NewbornTwins #ParentingPodcast #RealMumTalk #SavingMoneyWithBabies #TwinPregnancy #MumSupportNetwork #LifeWithTwins #HonestParentingLINKS:Follow Chantae and her family on Instagram: @thesaltsirensYou can also catch her at www.TheSaltSirens.com and www.ChantaeReden.comMy Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge⁠Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en⁠

Is your little one turning up their nose at peas, spitting out carrots, or demanding snacks every hour? You're not alone—and we've got you covered.In this episode of The Baby Playbook, we're joined by Nutritionist and Author Lisa Baker to dive deep into the world of picky eating in babies and toddlers. From identifying whether your child is truly a picky eater to building a positive relationship with food from the very first bite, Lisa shares expert tips and realistic strategies to make mealtime less stressful and a lot more fun.We cover:The signs of picky eating—and what’s actually normalProven techniques to encourage variety without pressureMaking mealtime playful (and peaceful!)An approach to introducing solidsSmart ways to manage snacking without power strugglesWhether you’re starting your solids journey or in the thick of toddler food battles, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you raise a confident, happy eater.#PickyEating #BabyNutrition #ToddlerMeals #FeedingBabies #StartingSolids #HealthyEatingHabits #ParentingTips #TheBabyPlaybook #MealtimeTips #BabyFoodJourney #ToddlerParentingLINKS:Enter our giveaway with Lisa Baker here: www.heynikolinak.co You can get your hands on Lisa’s books here: https://coffeetablenutrition.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooHg_YntYKTYWdMiF_7xSUKUag4uOPRiAc67YVdlEWfCiuH0oc8Follow Lise on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/the.coffee.table.nutritionist/ My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge⁠Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en⁠

👶 In this special Red Nose Day Australia episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re joined by paediatric doctor Dr. Nelu Simonsz to explore what the first six months of your baby’s life look like from a medical and developmental perspective.From essential health check-ups and vaccinations, to understanding early developmental milestones, Dr. Simonsz shares expert insights to help new parents feel informed and empowered. We also take a deep dive into safe sleep practices—what they are, why they matter, and how to follow the trusted guidelines from Red Nose Australia to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).❤️ This episode coincides with Red Nose Day Australia, a national day of awareness and fundraising to support research and education around SIDS and safe sleeping. Learn how you can help make a difference while keeping your baby safe.In this episode:What to expect at baby health appointments from birth to 6 monthsKey developmental milestones and when to seek supportHow to create a safe sleep environment for your babyThe life-saving work of Red Nose Australia and how to get involved this Red Nose Day🛑 Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical advice and vital information to support your baby’s health and safety.Support the work of Red Nose Australia here: www.rednoseday.org.au Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=enSubscribe to the mailing list for more INFO: https://heynikolinak.co/Get your copy of MUM ADVICE (a great gift for an expecting friend!) here: https://heynikolinak.co/b/mumadvice Join our private FB page to share and request advice from fellow parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1615190698987282 Grab a copy of My Mummy Loves Fudge (your favourite children’s book!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

In this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, I sit down with Jess de Varine-Bohan, the inspiring owner of Too The Moon Kids, a beloved second-hand kids’ clothing store. Jess brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the table as we dive into everything you actually need to know about dressing your baby.We cover: 👕 Understanding baby clothes sizing (and why it’s so confusing!) 💡 Tips on choosing clothes that are stylish and functional 📦 Smart storage solutions for baby clothes 💸 What’s not worth spending money on 🛍️ How to save money without sacrificing quality 🎁 Navigating clothing gifts from friends and familyWhether you're a new parent feeling overwhelmed by the piles of baby clothes—or you're just trying to be more intentional and budget-savvy—this episode is packed with helpful, real-world advice.Tune in and get dressed for success—baby style!LINKS:Enter our giveaway with Too The Moon kids here: www.heynikolinak.co Too The Moon kids website: https://tothemoonkids.com.au/Too The Moon kids Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tothemoonkids_My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge⁠Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en⁠#TheBabyPlaybookPodcast #BabyClothesTips #SecondHandBabyClothes #TooTheMoonKids #BabyClothingSizing #SaveMoneyOnBabyClothes #SustainableParenting #NewParentAdvice #BudgetBabyShopping #BabyClothingStorage #StylishBabyClothes #MinimalistParenting #EcoFriendlyParenting #ParentingPodcast #BabyClothingHacks #NewMumTips #BabyGiftGuide #ParentingOnABudget #SlowFashionKids #SecondHandKidsClothes