The Baby Playbook – Details, episodes & analysis

On this episode of The Baby Playbook Podcast, I sit down with psychologist Stephanie Alexander to explore the often-overlooked signs that you might be struggling with your mental wellbeing during the peri and postnatal period. Stephanie shares practical guidance on what to do if you’re feeling overwhelmed, how to ask for support, and actionable ways friends and family can provide meaningful help. 

Whether you’re a parent navigating the early days of babyhood or a loved one looking to support someone you care about, this episode offers insights, reassurance, and expert advice to help you navigate this crucial period with confidence and care.

#PerinatalMentalHealth #PostnatalMentalHealth #NewMomSupport #MentalHealthMatters #ParentingJourney

LINKS: 

Connect with Stephanie: www.feelgoodpsych.com.au

https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodpsychologist/

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe 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 Eimear Colleran, co-founder of the Maggie App — a brilliant new tool helping parents discover free, local, community-based activities for babies and young children.

Eimear shares the story behind Maggie, how it’s making life easier for new parents, and why getting out and about with your baby is so valuable — not just for little ones, but for parents too. We chat about the power of community, the benefits of social play, and the kinds of activities that help nurture early development and connection.

Whether you’re a new parent looking for inspiration or simply curious about building your village, this episode is full of practical tips, encouragement, and insights on how to make the most of those early days with your baby.

#TheBabyPlaybook #ParentingPodcast #NewParentLife #MomLife #DadLife #ParentingTips

LINKS:

Download on Apple: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/maggie/id6744465756

Join Android waitlist: https://maggie-app.com/android

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe 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 #ListenAndLearn

LINKS: 

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst: https://amzn.to/4ir2GDe 

Follow Jessica’s Early Learning Centre here: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasearlylearning/?hl=en

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe 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.com

Instagram: @towardwellbeing 

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

Subscribe 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 months

How to make tummy time more enjoyable (for baby and you!)

What toys and play items are actually worth buying — and what to skip

Gift ideas that support learning, not just clutter the nursery

Whether 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/all

Check 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=en

Subscribe 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 #HonestParenting

LINKS:

Follow Chantae and her family on Instagram: @thesaltsirens

You can also catch her at www.TheSaltSirens.com and www.ChantaeReden.com

My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): ⁠https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge⁠

Follow 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 normal
  

• Proven techniques to encourage variety without pressure
  

• Making mealtime playful (and peaceful!)
  

• An approach to introducing solids
  

• Smart ways to manage snacking without power struggles
  

Whether 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 #ToddlerParenting

LINKS:

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_7xSUKUag4uOPRiAc67YVdlEWfCiuH0oc8

Follow 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/mymummylovesfudge⁠

Follow 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 months

• Key developmental milestones and when to seek support

• How to create a safe sleep environment for your baby

• The 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=en

Subscribe 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 family

Whether 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/mymummylovesfudge⁠

Follow 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

In this empowering episode of The Baby Playbook, we’re joined by Kelly Prior, founder of CAKE — the platform that’s helping parents and employers find flexible, family-friendly work opportunities. Kelly shares her expert insights on how to navigate the often overwhelming transition back to work after having a baby.

We dive deep into:
👶 Navigating maternity leave and preparing for your return
🧘‍♀️ Building a realistic work-life balance with young kids
💬 How to approach your employer about flexible working arrangements
💔 Coping with the emotional weight of mum guilt

Whether you’re preparing to head back to work, considering a career shift, or simply trying to stay afloat in the chaos of parenting and productivity, this episode is filled with practical advice and heartfelt encouragement.

LINKS:

Keep up to date with Kelly here: https://www.instagram.com/kellyprior__tm

Check out CAKE here: https://www.thecake.com.au 

Not So Mumsy by Marcia Leone can be found here: https://www.amazon.com.au/shop/heynikolinak/list/3T762RPXBU5ZG?ref_=aipsflist

My Mummy Loves Fudge (the best gift for yourself or a new mum friend!): https://heynikolinak.co/b/mymummylovesfudge

Follow Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh here: https://www.instagram.com/heynikolinak/?hl=en

#TheBabyPlaybook #WorkingParents #MumGuilt #MaternityLeave #ParentingPodcast #WorkLifeBalance #FlexibleWorking #ReturnToWork #MotherhoodUnfiltered #CAKECommunity #ParentSupport #ModernParenting #CareerAfterKids