“Disability is so unique from one person to the next in terms of how it impacts them outside of pregnancy and well as pregnancy.” 

Dr. Anne Berndl (MD MSc FRCSC) is the director of the Accessible Care Pregnancy Clinic at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine. The clinic provides holistic, individualized obstetrical care to patients living with physical disabilities. 

Care options are individualized to each patient and their family, with the goal of providing seamless and holistic care throughout planning, pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period.

The Accessible Care Pregnancy Clinic opened in March 2017 and is the first of its kind in North America. It strives to improve obstetrical care for pregnant people living with physical disabilities. 

*This episode was recorded in 2024. 

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“Every pregnancy is different. There is something of a risk at every step of the way in every pregnancy.” 

While there is no ‘perfect’ prenatal scenario, Dr. Dini Hui ensures an optimal outcome for her patients. 

As a maternal fetal medicine specialist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, she cares for and advises those who have a ‘high risk’ or complicated pregnancy through consultation, frequent visits and specialized testing. 

*This episode was recorded in 2024. 

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It’s an expense that most parents can’t wait to do without: the cost of diapers. Of course, potty training is also a significant milestone for your little — and you too. Before embarking on this diaper-free journey, consider having a solid plan in place and asking yourself two key questions to determine readiness. In this episode, potty training consultant Lily Horbatiuk shares tips and tricks to a successful transition. 

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Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa leads a life of purpose. Heavily pregnant with her second child, Chika continues to write her memoir, advocate for the marginalized and work to end systemic racism in healthcare. In this episode, she shares how becoming a mother allows her to more deeply connect and empathize with her patients. Despite her professional successes, of which there are many, she puts happiness above all else — and wishes the same for her children. 

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Our Internet searches say a lot about us! This episode breaks down the top 5 online searches for the first half of 2023. From ‘lightning crotch’ (if you know, you know), to creepy crawlers in unmentionable places, the data is clear: parents are overwhelmed and looking for answers. Share a few laughs as we unpack and analyze what’s on Canadian parents’ minds.
~ Colleen Fisher Tully, freelance content writer & editor.

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It’s a gut wrenching feeling: Your toddler clinging to you while screaming and/or crying those big, real tears. If you’re struggling with dropping your little off at daycare, the babysitter, or with a loved one, you are not alone. In fact, separation anxiety is usually healthy and normal, and often shows a deep bond between parent and child. Explore attachment theory, and how a secure or insecure relationship may exacerbate these strong emotions. 

~ Mirra Wicker, licensed clinical social worker, founder of Ohana Therapy. Host of the Connected Beginnings Facebook page. 

Bonus Episode: Listen to Part 2 now!

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In this bonus episode, Mirra Wicker walks me through a typical morning, before the dreaded daycare drop off. She shares coping mechanisms and strategies for alleviating some of the separation tension — because your child is likely sensing your anxiety, despite your best efforts to appear calm, cool, or collected. 

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It's a big responsibility, naming that brand new tiny human! To choose the name they will carry for life, without even knowing who they are yet. Do you go for trendy, vintage, classic or quirky? Maybe there’s a family name you have to incorporate — but it’s dated, gendered, or downright unpalatable — what can you do?

Steph Coffield is a mom-of-three turned content creator and name consultant. She uses her imagination, creativity, and even historical data to help parents find the perfect name for their little one.

 

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Will you ever sleep again? Short answer: yes. When sleep is out of reach, thanks to miserable bedtimes, wakeful nights and early mornings, it can feel like a never ending cycle. While completely developmentally normal, the 18-month sleep regression is considered to be the toughest of the baby and toddler regressions. Rest easy, there are ways to manage — and survive — this trying time.

~ Bridget Jensen, consultant, Better Bedtime.

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Vassy Kapelos is a well known and respected Canadian journalist. While her on-air persona never wavered during her pregnancy, it was a different story behind the scenes. Vassy suffered from Hyperemesis, a debilitating and persistent disorder that gravely impacted her mental and physical well being. When her son was born, the symptoms disappeared — leading to her own feelings of rebirth. 

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You know those absurd ‘mom moments’ that leave you shaking your head? Shawna Lander perfectly captures the good, the bad — and the funny — as her character, ‘Shawna the Mom.’ Beneath the humour is a loving mom of two, journeying back to herself after surviving breast cancer, with gratitude and a fresh perspective.

~ Shawna Lander, creator, actor, writer. 

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“Daniel isn't our adopted son. He's our son. Period.” Robyn and Mike adopted Daniel in 2011 after years of infertility, pregnancy loss, and heartache. They had just 10 days from when they were first told he existed until the day he came home for good. By fostering open communication, Robyn and Mike have created a safe space for Daniel to ask as many questions as he likes — which will be answered in due time.   

~ Robyn Brady, mom of two: Daniel and Molly.
~ Daniel Regnier, Robyn's son. 

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“This experience of loss really changes who you are in the world — and changes you for the rest of your life.” 

Michelle La Fontaine is the manager of the Pregnancy & Infant Loss Network (PAIL) at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. As a bereaved mom herself, she guides grieving families with a full heart, connecting them with programs and resources. 

PAIL joined Sunnybrook in 2017 and aims to bring awareness to this uncomfortable topic while providing grief literacy and support to the wider community.

*This episode was recorded in 2024. 

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Do you know the cost of raising a child in Canada? It may be higher than you think, which is why it’s so important to start planning. Learn budgeting, saving, and investing tips and explore what government benefits you may be eligible for. It’s never too early — or too late — to establish good spending habits to help secure your child’s financial future.

~ Sara Cook, Investment Advisor, Cook and Associate, BMO Nesbitt Burns. 

This episode is brought to you by Cook and Associates BMO Nesbitt Burns. Proudly supporting families and businesses through SouthWestern Ontario. When it comes to managing your wealth, we can help you navigate whatever comes your way.

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Navigating pre and postnatal care can be overwhelming for many first time moms. There are certain expectations that women face, including how to give birth and how to feed their child. Heading into her first pregnancy, Jessica was clear on her choices: she wanted a cesarean on maternal request — and wasn’t planning to breastfeed.

~ Jessica Pratezina, PhD student in Interdisciplinary Studies (Child and Youth Care and Sociology), University of Victoria, first time mom. 

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Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Kimberly Amato turned her grief into action following the tragic and preventable death of her daughter Meghan. Her advocacy work — and tribute site  — has informed, educated, and paved the way for higher safety standards for dressers and other clothing storage furniture.

~ Kimberly Amato, Vice Chair, Parents Against Tip-Overs.

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If you’re struggling with the so-called “Mom Guilt” this episode is for you. There’s no ‘perfect parent’ who gets everything right all the time, despite what we see on social media. By adjusting our thought patterns and responses, we can learn to manage the little things — so we can appreciate the big picture moments.

~ Doctor Tanya Cotler, adult and child clinical psychologist, Toronto. 

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The stress of motherhood is real. Burnout exists. The juggling act can feel overwhelming. By recognizing the signs of fatigue, we can work toward the holy grail: balancing your kid(s) and your career. From setting firm boundaries and showing ourselves grace — to drilling down to what’s really important — it's time to take a deep breath and enjoy the ride. 

~ Leigh Duncan, mom of three and executive director of public affairs and communications, Ontario-based hospital.
~ Madison Cox, mom of two and director and chief of staff, Ontario-based University. 

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It can be so difficult to establish a nap or bedtime routine with your little one. And it’s so frustrating when something happens to throw that schedule off. With Daylight Saving Time quickly approaching on Saturday, here are some tips on how to adjust and (hopefully) get back to normal — whatever your normal is!

~ Bridget Jensen, sleep consultant, Better Bedtime 

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If you’ve reached that one year anniversary — congratulations! If you’re not quite there yet, here’s a sneak peek at what to expect in terms of physical, cognitive, social, and communication/language milestones. There’s also newfound independence, lots of ‘testing’ — and innate and insatiable curiosity. Get ready for this exciting new chapter. 

~ Dr. Eugene Ng, newborn and developmental paediatrics, Toronto. 

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Becoming a new mom is daunting enough — not only are you preparing for a massive lifestyle change, your mental and physical health is about to transform too. Embarking on this journey at an advanced age comes with its own set of challenges, including the possibility of increased complications and societal stigma. Luckily, later-in-life pregnancies have become the norm.

~ Candace Cobbing, TV producer, soon-to-be new Mom.

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Are you home from the hospital, new baby in bassinet, and still feel a bit confused by it all? Not to worry — those blurry, hazy days are completely normal, and even have a name. The first 12 weeks after giving birth is referred to as the ‘fourth trimester.’ Not only is your new baby going through changes, you are too! Your body is adjusting: organs are shifting back into place, milk is being produced, and hormones are working to regulate. So, give yourself the time, space, and grace to heal and adjust as you find your way.

~ Marygrace Taylor, freelance journalist, Women’s Health, O Magazine, The Bump, What To Expect, among others. Also the co-author of three books. 

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“Most parents are doing just fine. It’s sloppy and messy, and you’re going to get upset. Some days are harder than others; if that’s the best you had today, it was good enough.” One of Canada’s leading parenting experts talks behavioural patterns, corrective strategies, and setting boundaries in a kind and loving way. It’s never too early to figure out what kind of parent you want — or need — to be!

~ Alyson Schafer, family counselor, parenting expert, author and international public speaker.  

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“I would go to emergency with extreme blood loss, clots, completely drained out. I was white like a piece of paper and they would send me back home with Tylenol.”

Flora Kestin suffered for years with undiagnosed endometriosis. Her hellish journey began at the age of 14. She was eventually treated by Dr Jamie Kroft, one of Canada’s leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.

Dr. Kroft, a gynecologist who specializes in minimally invasive surgery at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, has helped countless people regain control of their lives.

Visit The Endometriosis Network Canada for additional information and resources. 

*This episode was recorded in 2024. 

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Whether your baby is two months old, or a year-and-a-half, embarking on the childcare journey can be overwhelming. There are a number of important decisions to make, like when and where, but you’re also preparing yourself (and them) for this massive change. A mom and freelance journalist shares advice and learnings from her own experience.

~ Jenn Sinrich, freelance journalist and content strategist who writes for a myriad of publications including WhatToExpect.com, Well+Good, Oxygen Magazine, Women's Health, SELF and more. She is also the proud mom of a 3-year-old, Mila and a baby boy due in November.

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Got Milk? If you find yourself with an oversupply of breast milk, The Rogers Hixon Ontario Milk Bank may be a viable option for you. This passion project was started nearly two decades ago and is still the only milk bank in Ontario to collect, pasteurize and provide donated breast milk to hospitalized babies.

~ Sarah Petrick, beneficiary, mom of premature twin boys.
~ Debbie Stone, director, The Rogers Hixon Ontario Milk Bank. 

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Do you and your partner adhere to traditional gender roles? If so, what impact does that have on your parenting style — and your relationship? If you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out by societal pressures and expectations, you’re not alone! Unpack the invisible ties that bind, and discover how you and your family can work toward meaningful change.

~ Jessica Pratezina, MA, PhD student, child and youth care, Sociology, University of Victoria.
Listen to It's About Time: How Moms and Dads Can Share the Care here. 

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Like so many new moms, 24-year-old Lauren Davis struggled to breastfeed her infant  son. She was prescribed domperidone, which is often used off-label to induce lactation. When she tragically died in her sleep, her parents suspected a link between her death and the medication. Seven years later, they graciously share Lauren’s story so other women may proceed with caution.

~ Erin Davis and Rob Whitehead, Lauren’s parents 

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Thanks for listening! Here's what you heard during Season 1 (and, what you didn't hear). Until next time...

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Community building (or finding) is so important during this exciting yet challenging time. How connecting with like minded people benefits your mental, emotional and physical well-being. And, veteran parents share words of wisdom for new moms and dads.  

• Gillian Kuriyan, director of Mommy Connections, Midtown Toronto.
• Hayley, new mom, teacher & program facilitator.
• Special thanks to: Sara, Rosie, Daryl, Josh, Alana, Paul, Harmony, Catherine. 

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Going through pregnancy and delivery is a lot. It's tough on your emotional, mental and physical well-being. Forget the number on the scale or fitting into your pre-baby jeans. This episode focuses on building strength and confidence, so you can feel good, wherever you're at. 

• Jessica Sennet, certified personal trainer CPT and Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness Specialist. Founder and CEO of Mighty Mom.

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Are your stairs gated? Is your furniture anchored? Are sharp objects within reach? There’s so much to consider when babyproofing your home and surroundings. Prevention truly is at the heart of child safety; learn what steps you can take to ensure peace of mind. 

• Lucy, mom of two, shares a traumatic story involving a buggy (stroller).
• Nancy Reynolds, owner, BabySecure & Advanced Certified Professional Childproofer.
• David Drutz, owner, Kiddie Proofers. 

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Music truly is the universal language; connecting all ages, backgrounds and cultures. Making music with your little one is fun and engaging, but did you know it’s also educational? Learn how the components of sound act as early building blocks of language and communication. Making Music Together’s Risa Waldman shares her emotional adoption journey with music — and a baby girl — at its heart.

*PROMO* Use promo code BABYPODCAST to receive $20.00 off a summer OR fall Making Music Together session! Click here for more information. 

• Risa Waldman, director, Making Music Together 
• Katie, 10 year old daughter of Risa
• Natalie, mom, 10 month old son

Music © 1987-2022 Music Together LLC used by permission. All Rights Reserved.

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These short sleep stories are for you, tired parent. A reminder that if you’re exhausted and don’t have bed or naptime figured out, you’re not alone. Three Moms and a Dad share their challenges — from restless sleepers and regressions — to trial and error successes. A sleep consultant explains what’s behind those 2 a.m. wake up calls. 

• Liz, Mom of 18 month old 
• Rich, Dad of 4 month old 
• Bex, Mom of 16 month old 
• Kelsey, Mom of two; 10.5 month old and 4 year old 
• Bridget Jensen, sleep consultant, Better Bedtime. Bridget also appeared in episode 3, Sleep like a baby.

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"We were absolutely terrified, and our biggest question was, 'is our baby going to die?' I didn't know anything about babies being born in the second trimester."

Ten years ago, Karen Bong didn’t know if her daughter would make it home from Sunnybrook’s NICU. She is now the proud mother of two, and guides other new parents as the NICU’s Family Support Specialist. 

Dr. Eugene Ng is a neonatologist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. He outlines the processes and protocols in place for NICU support and how this hospital has the best outcome in all of Canada for micro-preemies and babies born with anomalies. 

*This episode was recorded in 2024. 

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“Accidents happen quickly. Water can be fun, but we need to be safe in and around it.”
From bathtubs and pools to natural bodies of water, this episode focuses on building water confidence, safely. Learn the basic safety precautions that save lives, and how to get your little one comfortable in water (you can help!) It’s never too early — or too late — to make a splash.

• Carolyn, mom of two, Parent & Tot: Love to Bubble swimming lessons. 
• Davina Lopez, owner, Davina’s Swim House. 
• Avi Kerbel, mom of three, used First Aid on her infant son. 

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Ever wonder what it’s like to have twins? Or… what the odds are of having TWO sets? Mom of four Molly Malone is a self-made twin expert: from myth busting and learned experience, to words of advice and what not to say to a mom of multiples.  And — Dr. Ng sheds light on the statistics around multiples, and shares his own thoughts on being a twin Dad. 

• Molly Malone, mom of two sets of twin boys.
• Dr. Eugene Ng, newborn and developmental paediatrics, Toronto.  

Dr. Ng is featured in episode 11, Paediatrician 101: Need to Know.

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The benefits of breastfeeding are well documented, but that doesn’t mean the experience is without challenge — an LC shares advice and reassurance. Unpack the ‘Breast is Best’ narrative and understand the impetus behind the ‘Fed is Best’ movement. 

• Dr. Christie del Castillo-Hegyi, emergency physician and co-founder, Fed is Best.
• Mary Lynne Biener, IBCLC, Kindercare Pediatrics, and founding member, The Breastfeeding Collective. 
• Kesha, mom of two. 

You can listen to Tracey’s story here. Her difficult breastfeeding journey led to a diagnosis of Postpartum Depression and a rock bottom moment involving her newborn son. 

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Planning a trip but feeling anxious about air travel with your little one? That's understandable — but it’s totally manageable with preparation, patience, and a positive attitude. Tune in for tips and tricks on airline allowances, seating options, and on-board essentials.  

• Yashy Murphy, digital creator and travel writer; curator of parentingtogo.ca. 
• Ben, new dad. 

Growing Up: Baby is listed by Feedspot as one of the 80 Best Mom podcasts. 

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Ever wonder what your newborn sees, how baby’s brain grows, or the effect of positive vs. negative stimuli? A doctor specializing in newborn and development paediatrics walks us through key milestones. And — a general paediatrician covers the most common questions and concerns new parents face. Hint: Sleep and breathing top the list. 

• Dr. Eugene Ng, newborn and developmental paediatrics, Toronto. 
• Dr. Nicole Radziminski, general paediatrician, Yellowknife NWT.

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Don’t be deterred if your photography skills aren’t quite up to scratch. The perfect picture is one that makes you smile — so take it! Learn the do's and don'ts of newborn photography so you can capture those precious moments from the comfort of your own home. 

• Nina Polidoro, Nina Polidoro Photography, St. Marys Ontario. 

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“It’s going to happen. It’s a normal part of infant development; it’s neither the fault of the parent or caregiver, or the baby.” Your baby’s incessant crying is difficult to endure, and it’s important to remember that the period of PURPLE Crying has a beginning — and an end. Utilize five coping and soothing components that can help prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome or Abusive Head Trauma. Learn more at dontshake.org.

• Kat Jacobs, MSc, Injury Prevention Specialist, Victoria Hospital, Trauma Program, London Health Sciences Centre.

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Preparing to enter the world of solids, but don’t know where to start? Learn to read baby’s cues, when they’re ready, and what to start with (and avoid). From Baby Led Weaning to introducing the 10 most common allergens, a registered dietician shares tips and advice. And, we hear from a mom whose daughter is now climbing the ‘egg ladder’ in hopes of overcoming her allergy.

• Andrea Carpenter, registered dietitian, founder of NutriKidz.
• Sara, mom of two. 

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Introduce your little one to hydrotherapy and massage — treatments that can help improve circulation, muscle tone and digestion. Touch and body awareness are so important; learn simple techniques like ‘milking’,  ‘wringing’ and the ‘ILU’ massage.  And, Best Life Mom is important too: don’t forget to take care of you. 

• Saleha Rajab, registered massage therapist, Snuggles n Bubbles Baby Spa & Wellness. 
• Jimmy Cho, registered kinesiologist.
  
  

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As a new parent, you may know what to expect, but a brand new baby can come as quite the shock to your four-legged family member. Prepare your dog or cat using positive reinforcement and techniques utilizing sound or smell. Keep an eye on body language and other signs of distress so the integration process can go as safely as possible. 

• Beverley McKee, program manager, public training services and care support, Toronto Humane Society.
• Krystina, mom of newborn, dog owner. 

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This five-part Sunnybrook Series features the lived experience of those navigating motherhood, trauma and loss, and the specialists, doctors and directors dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable of patients. 

Stream a new episode every Wednesday, beginning March 5. All guests on this podcast were provided by Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. 

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This Mom-to-be had everything one could hope for leading up to the birth of her first-born: a stable relationship, a thriving career, a beautiful home. So when postpartum depression struck out of nowhere — it struck hard. The inability and pressure to breastfeed, combined with lack of sleep, led to a downward spiral that culminated in a rock bottom moment. 

• Tracey, mom of two.

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A new baby brings about a host of new feelings, for better or for worse. It’s not uncommon for a heightened sense of caution to lead to some pretty unsettling thoughts, imagery or compulsions. Know the difference between mama bear mode, baby blues, and the signs of a mood disorder. Your mind matters — don’t be afraid to seek advice, help, or treatment.

• Hiltrud Dawson, retired health promotion consultant, Best Start Resource Centre.
• Dr. Lucy Barker, psychiatrist, Women’s College Hospital.

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What is sleep training; how does it work and when should you begin? How to navigate the dreaded, yet misunderstood, sleep regression. And, one third of bone tired Canadian parents report sleeping with baby in bed. This episode covers safe sleep, bed sharing, and mitigating risk.

• Bridget Jensen, sleep consultant, Better Bedtime.
• Sarah, mom of two.
• Dr. April Kam, associate professor and director of research in the department of pediatrics, division of emergency medicine at McMaster University.

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If your baby started choking right now, would you know what to do? Airway obstructions are the most common emergencies in infants and young children. Get a refresher on the First Aid basics with a certified trainer. And, one mum shares her harrowing story; she almost lost her youngest son to an everyday item. 

• Chris Riley, lead instructor, SAJE Vital Signs.
• Claire, mom of three. 

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