From tiny newborns to the throes toddler— we've laughed, cried, and celebrated it all. In this final episode of Baby Banter, join Mon, Helen, and I as we wrap up two beautiful years of growth, love, and the messy magic of parenting. Grab a cuppa and come celebrate Geo, Seb, and the mums who made it all happen.

The episode delves into myth-busting surrounding toddler milestones, the significance of risky play, and the best types of toys and play for developmental support. The conversation also touches on the future potential of their children, providing an insightful and heartfelt look at parenting and child development.

In this episode of Baby Banter, host Nicole Pates, a paediatric physio and mom, is joined by moms Mon and Helen and their 2-year-old boys, Geo and Seb. The podcast offers a heartfelt reflection on their journey over the past two years, from early concerns to current developmental milestones. Special guest Catherine Monaco, an educational and developmental psychologist, provides expert advice on toddler development, covering topics like separation anxiety, frustration management, role-playing, and behavioral challenges. Nicole introduces helpful tools like the Toddler Play Academy and discusses practical strategies for engaging with and supporting young children. The episode is a valuable resource for parents navigating the complexities of raising toddlers, filled with humour, personal stories, and professional insights.

Want more child development support?Check out the ⁠Toddler Play Academy⁠ – an online program filled with fun play ideas, expert-led masterclasses, and direct access to a team of paediatric professionals. From motor development and communication to emotional regulation, you’ll find everything you need to support your child’s growth. See the show notes for a special discount!

Links:• ⁠Follow Nicole Pates on Instagram⁠• ⁠Baby Play Academy⁠• ⁠Toddler Play Academy⁠• ⁠The Ultimate Guide to Tummy Time⁠• ⁠Head Preference & Head Flattening Webinar⁠• ⁠Positioning and Play Ideas for Babies with Hip Dysplasia⁠

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Professor Cylie Williams—a podiatrist, researcher, educator, and the Deputy Head of the School of Primary and Allied Health Care at Monash University. Cylie is an absolute legend in the field of children’s foot health, with a wealth of experience gained from her work in community health and private practice. She leads cutting-edge research on kids’ feet, shoes, and pain, making her insights invaluable for parents and professionals alike. Beyond her impressive credentials, Cylie is also one of the funniest and most down-to-earth experts I’ve had the pleasure of learning from.

From baby foot development and picking a first shoe, through the toddler years and into runners and school shoes, Cylie answers all your questions. Cylie generously shares her tips on helping kids with sensory needs who find shoe shopping and changing shoes difficult. If you have questions about “what’s the best shoe?” This podcast chat has all the answers.

So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and get ready for an enlightening chat with one of my greatest inspirations. Enjoy the show!

Welcome to Baby Banter, the podcast dedicated to exploring the joys and challenges of play, child development, and everything in between! Hosted by Nicole Pates, a passionate paediatric physiotherapist and mum of two, this show is your friendly guide through the beautiful yet sometimes overwhelming journey of parenthood.

Want more child development support?
Check out the Toddler Play Academy – an online program filled with fun play ideas, expert-led masterclasses, and direct access to a team of paediatric professionals. From motor development and communication to emotional regulation, you’ll find everything you need to support your child’s growth. See the show notes for a special discount!

Links:
• Follow Nicole Pates on Instagram
• Baby Play Academy
• Toddler Play Academy
• The Ultimate Guide to Tummy Time
• Head Preference & Head Flattening Webinar
• Positioning and Play Ideas for Babies with Hip Dysplasia