Neonatologist Adrienne Gordon helps save the lives of tiny babies in intensive care. They constantly amaze her.

Their unique personalities. How fast they learn. The way they can be so close to death and yet go on to thrive.

Adrienne shares what parents need to know about the first 1,000 days, the critical period from conception to the age of two.

“Some of the most important aspects of life are before you even arrive,” Adrienne says.

The first 1,000 days lay the foundation for lifelong physical and mental health, cognitive abilities, and social and emotional development, and have been linked to heart disease, diabetes, obesity and ADHD in later life.

Adrienne also offers insights into coping with stillbirth and keeping pregnant women safe in extreme heat. And if you’ve been wondering if it’s better to play your unborn baby music by Metallica, Mozart or Taylor Swift, get ready for a surprise.

You can find out more about Adrienne’s research on the University of Sydney website. More information about the Safer Baby Bundle is available on the Stillbirth Centre of Research Excellence website.

You’ll also hear from Kerry Arabena, the managing director of First 1000 Days Australia, a First Nations model aimed at strengthening all families so they can give their children the best start in life.

For the transcript and notes for this episode, visit the website.

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The Solutionists is a production of Deadset Studios.

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This episode was produced by Monique Ross. Sound design by Jeremy Wilmot. The executive producer is Rachel Fountain. Executive editors are Jen Peterson-Ward, Kellie Riordan and Mark Scott.

This podcast was recorded on the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. For thousands of years, across innumerable generations, knowledge has been taught, shared and exchanged here. We pay respect to elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

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