#199 - Baby walkers, jumpers, and exersaucers are some of the most popular baby devices on the market — but are they really helping your little one learn to stand and walk, or could they be holding them back? In this episode, Helen Thompson breaks down the surprising truths many parents never hear about how these devices impact a baby’s hips, posture, balance, and overall development.

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience and her recent work with six-month-old twins, Helen gently explains why babies placed in upright positions before their bodies are ready often develop compensations like knee-locking, toe-walking, back-arching, and delayed milestones. You’ll hear why these devices aren’t “bad” — but why awareness matters, and how simple movements like rolling, wriggling, tummy time, and floor play build the strongest foundations for confident walking later on.

Whether you already use baby gear like jumpers or you’re thinking of buying one, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance to help you support your baby’s natural development in a safe and empowering way.

Helen also shares a special end-of-year update — including an exciting announcement about the upcoming 200th episode — and invites you to reflect on the key question of this episode: “Is my baby’s body truly ready for the positions these devices put them in?”

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/199.

#198 - If bedtime has started to feel stressful, tense, or full of tears (for you and your baby), you’re definitely not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 gentle soothing techniques that can help your baby feel safe, settle more easily, and relax into calmer, happier nights.

You’ll learn:

• How to read your baby’s cues so you can support them before overwhelm hits
• A simple jawline + toe reflexology routine to ease teething and tension
• How to use your breath and voice to help your baby regulate
• A calming back massage story that brings emotional grounding and connection
• Why your calm is the key ingredient — even when settling takes time

If you’re ready to bring a little more peace into your evenings and feel more confident soothing your baby, this episode will help you build rhythms that truly support both of you.

👉 Show notes: mybabymassage.net/podcast/198

If you’ve ever stood in a baby store aisle thinking, “Which stroller is actually right for me?” — you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing 7 smart questions that every first-time mum should ask before buying a baby stroller, so you can avoid the overwhelm and choose one that truly fits your lifestyle.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to find a stroller that matches your day-to-day routine — not just what looks good in the shop

✅ Simple ways to save money and skip costly “must-have” mistakes

✅ How to balance comfort, safety, and practicality without feeling pressured by trends

If you’re ready to feel confident about your stroller choice and enjoy those first walks with your baby feeling calm and stress-free, this episode will help you shop smarter and spend wiser.

👉 Check out the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/197.