Growing Little Humans

A Child's First Day at Nursery

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:19:06 +0300

Starting nursery is a big milestone for both children and parents! In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Melissa and Lea explore how to prepare your child for their first day, manage separation anxiety, and help them adjust to the nursery environment.

We discuss what to expect on day one, how nursery supports social and emotional growth, and practical tips for smoother drop-offs. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or a bit of both, this episode offers valuable insights and advice to make the transition easier for everyone.

Toilet Training 101: Your Survival Guide

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In today’s episode, we sit down with Amanda Jenner, the UK’s leading toilet training expert, inventor of My Carry Potty and founder of the Potty Training Academy to discuss the essential skills and strategies for successful potty training. We explore common challenges parents face during this milestone and how to navigate them with patience and positivity. Amanda shares her expertise on understanding the signs of readiness, creating a supportive environment, and making the process smoother for both parents and children. Tune in for practical tips and advice to help your child transition into this important stage of development with confidence.

Raising Resilient Kids in a Changing World

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Dr Tovah Klein helps us explore what resilience means for kids, why it matters, and how it develops from early childhood. Learn practical ways parents can support resilience, recognize signs of stress, and guide kids through tough times like loss or big changes.

We’ll also discuss how play, friendships, and managing social media pressures help build resilience, as well as its vital link to mental health. Tune in for tips to raise strong, adaptable children ready to thrive in a changing world.
Raising Resilience: How to Help Our Children Thrive in Times of Uncertainty:
https://www.harpercollins.com/products/raising-resilience-tovah-klein?variant=41366399877154
How Toddlers Thrive:
https://www.amazon.com/How-Toddlers-Thrive-Children-Lifelong/dp/1476735131

The Magic of Reading: Nurturing a Love for Books in Early Childhood

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Publisher Layal Idriss joins us to explore the transformative power of reading to children with expert advice on fostering a lifelong love for books. Learn why reading aloud is crucial for early development, when to start, and how to choose the best books for children aged 0–8. We also dive into practical tips for introducing new vocabulary, navigating bilingual households, and keeping little ones engaged during story time. Discover how audiobooks and digital platforms can complement traditional reading, and hear our guest Layal Idriss’ top book recommendations for young readers.

Perfect for busy parents, caregivers, and educators, this episode offers actionable insights to make story time magical and impactful!

Travelling With Kids: Tips for Stress-Free Adventures

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:15:47 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Lea and Melissa explore how traveling can shape children’s personalities and broaden their horizons. Discover creative ways to introduce your kids to new cultures, languages, and foods while making the most of family holidays.

We also cover practical advice for planning trips with young children, from preparing them for the journey to packing essentials like strollers, snacks, and activities. Plus, get expert tips for flying with kids and learn about must-have travel products to make your adventure smoother.

Whether it’s your first trip with little ones or you’re seasoned travelers, this episode is packed with advice to help your family enjoy stress-free journeys!

STEM in the Early Years: Sparking Curiosity and Building Skills for the Future

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 27 May 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Chris Buswell, an expert in EdTech and a STEM education leader helps us explore the exciting world of STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—and its profound impact on young children. Why is it essential to introduce STEM concepts in the early years? What does engaging with STEM look like for children at different developmental stages, and how does it support creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills?

We’ll share practical tips for parents to incorporate STEM learning into everyday activities, like cooking or outdoor adventures, and discuss the role of technology in early education. How can digital tools enhance learning while maintaining a healthy balance with hands-on play? We also address the importance of nurturing curiosity while preparing children for a rapidly evolving future.

Join us as we delve into how STEM education can empower your child to be a confident, inquisitive learner ready to tackle tomorrow’s challenges!

Teaching Kids About Money: Building Financial Literacy

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 20 May 2025 08:14:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Matt O’Bryan and Ben Bolger, the Co-Founders of Squirrel Education, help us to explore why financial literacy is a vital skill for kids and how early lessons can shape healthy money habits. Learn practical tips for introducing concepts like saving, allowances, and goal-setting, and discover Squirrel Education’s innovative app for teaching kids about money.

Empower your little ones with essential financial skills in this insightful and actionable episode!

Understanding Paediatric ADHD: Signs, Diagnosis and Support

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In today’s episode, we take a deep dive into pediatric ADHD with Dr Dalal Elsori providing insights on recognizing early warning signs, the ideal age for diagnosis, and how parents can navigate the evaluation process.

Learn how to differentiate between typical childhood behaviors and ADHD symptoms, what to expect during a diagnosis, and the importance of early intervention. We also discuss practical steps parents can take to support their child emotionally and advocate for their needs at home and school.

Whether you're a concerned parent or simply curious about ADHD, this episode is packed with essential information and resources to guide you!

Nurturing 21st Century Skills in Early Childhood

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Early Childhood expert Kirsty van Rooyen helps us explore the importance of developing 21st-century skills—like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration—in young children. Learn how play, exploration, and technology help foster these skills, and how parents can support them at home. We also discuss the balance between traditional learning and these essential skills, and the role of outdoor activities in shaping well-rounded learners.

Tune in for practical tips on preparing children for the future!

Spotting Developmental Warning Signs in Young Children

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In today’s episode of Growing Little Humans we are joined by Melissa O’Donnell, the Founder of Meaningful Measures to talk about the early development of young children. What are the warning signs that your child may have developmental issues, when it might be time to seek medical intervention and who you can approach for help. Melissa is a Behavior Analyst and Neurodiversity Advocate and works with young children daily, interacting with their schools and medical professionals.

Understanding Pediatric Allergies: Insights and Tips

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we chat with Dr Nitin Verma, a pediatric allergy expert from Kings College Hospital London in Dubai, about the rise of allergies in children and how parents can manage and prevent them. From common triggers and the difference between allergies and intolerances to diagnosing allergies and navigating social situations, Dr Verma shares practical advice and the latest on emerging treatments.

Gain expert insights, tips for allergy prevention, and resources to support your family’s journey. A must-listen for parents managing or concerned about pediatric allergies!

The Magic of Music: Unlocking Early Childhood Development through Sound

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0300

Music has a profound impact on early childhood development. In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we are joined by Teresa Novak, an expert in Early Childhood and Primary Music Education to explore the lasting benefits of musical experiences for young children, from enhancing creativity and learning to fostering emotional growth.

Discover how play and music go hand in hand, simple ways to introduce music at home, and how to incorporate melodies into daily routines. We also discuss choosing the right music programs, exploring different genres, and nurturing a child’s budding interest in music.

Tune in for practical tips and resources to bring the joy of music into your child’s life!

The First 1000 days: Building a Strong Foundation Through Nutrition

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0300

The first 1,000 days of a child’s life, from conception to age two, are a critical window for growth and development. In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we are joined by Aisling Oslizlok, the Founder of Great Little Eaters, to explore the profound impact of nutrition during this period, from supporting brain development to laying the groundwork for lifelong health.

We discuss the role of prenatal nutrition, breastfeeding, and best practices for introducing solid foods, including which foods to prioritize or avoid. Plus, we address common challenges families face in meeting nutritional needs and share expert advice and resources for parents.

Join us to learn how to give your child the best nutritional start in life!

Working Mums V’s Stay At Home Mums: Debunking the Debate and Embracing Choice

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Lea sits down with girlfriends Joanna King and Tara Davidson to tackle the age-old debate: stay-at-home mum or working mum? We explore the societal shifts that have shaped this discussion, the pressures mums face today, and the real impact of "mum guilt."

Through an honest look at the pros and cons of each path, we dive into why women can be so judgmental of one another and how we can foster more support and understanding. Drawing on personal experiences of both roles, we answer the big question: Is one truly better than the other?

Join us for practical tips on how to be the best mum you can be—whether you're at home or in the workplace—and learn why there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.

Building Brains: Early Development and Learning in Young Children

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:16:04 +0300

The early years are a critical time for brain development and learning. In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Cognitive Neuroscientist Dr Claudine Habak helps us to explore how a child’s brain grows during this formative period and the key factors that influence cognitive abilities.

We discuss the power of play-based learning, the importance of social interaction, and how early life experiences shape development. Plus, we delve into the impact of technology and screen time on young minds and share practical tips for parents to support optimal brain growth and learning.

Join us for expert insights into nurturing your child’s potential!

The Benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Kids

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:24:19 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Amadu Jorge, a seasoned BJJ Professor joins us to dive into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and its unique benefits for young children. Learn how BJJ differs from other martial arts, the ideal age to start, and how it supports physical, cognitive, and emotional development.

We explore how BJJ fosters discipline, respect, and confidence while remaining safe and accessible for young learners. From finding the right dojo to supporting your child’s journey at home, this episode offers practical tips for parents considering this dynamic sport.

Whether your child is a beginner or ready to compete, this episode highlights why BJJ can be a transformative experience for kids!

Childhood Obesity: Causes, Impacts and Solutions

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we explore the growing issue of childhood obesity with Dr Rajeev Tomar, a Consultant of Pediatric Medicine at Kings College Hospital London in Dubai, focusing on its causes, health risks, and the role of genetics. Our guest shares practical advice for promoting healthy habits, the importance of nutrition education, and how to encourage physical activity while reducing screen time.

We discuss effective interventions, how to approach sensitive weight conversations, and ways communities and policies can support families in tackling this challenge. A must-listen for parents and caregivers seeking solutions to this critical issue!

Understanding the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:20:17 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we dive into the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) — a cornerstone of early childhood education in Australia with Karen McCord, the Executive Principal from the Australian International School Dubai. We explore what the EYLF is, the philosophy behind its holistic approach, and how it nurtures children’s development across physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and creative domains.

Discover how the EYLF tailors its practices to meet the unique needs of every child, fostering a love of learning and resilience. We’ll also discuss how the EYLF prepares children for the transition to formal schooling, equipping them with essential skills and confidence to thrive in the next stage of their educational journey. Whether you're a parent or educator, this episode offers valuable insights into how the EYLF supports children in becoming capable, confident, and curious learners.

Feeding Your Baby: Navigating Breastfeeding, Formula and Beyond

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Zahra Mokhber, a Registered Midwife and Certified Lactation Consultant from Kings College Hospital London in Dubai helps us to explore the choices, challenges, and realities of feeding your baby. From the breastfeeding vs. formula debate to overcoming common feeding challenges, we discuss how factors like diet, medication, and stigma impact a parent’s journey.

Learn about responsive feeding, preparing for a return to work, and continuing breastfeeding during childcare transitions. We also cover introducing solids and what both breastfeeding and formula-feeding parents should know.

This episode offers practical insights and support for all parents, no matter how they choose to nourish their little ones!

How to Choose a Nursery

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we are joined by the hosts Lea and Mel to explore the key factors in choosing the right nursery for your little one. We discuss what to look for in a high-quality early learning environment, the importance of play-based learning, teacher qualifications, and how to assess safety and wellbeing in a childcare setting. Plus, we share tips on navigating nursery visits, understanding different educational approaches, and ensuring a smooth transition for both parents and children. Tune in for expert advice to help you make an informed decision for your child’s early years!

Baby & Toddler Safe Sleep Practices

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, we are joined by Safe Sleep expert Natalie van Winckel to explore the essentials of safe sleep for babies and toddlers, including how much rest they need and tips for establishing healthy sleep routines at home. We discuss methods for helping babies fall asleep, the debate between crying it out and self-soothing, and when to expect your little one to sleep through the night. Plus, we touch on SIDS prevention and how educators at The Wishing Tree work with parents to maintain sleep consistency between home and childcare. Tune in for expert insights to support restful nights for your little ones!

Kitchen Gardens: Growing Curiosity in Kids

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:26:23 +0300

Join us in this episode of Growing Little Humans as Kitchen Garden and Early Learning specialist Maree Knock helps us uncover the many ways kitchen gardens benefit young children. From introducing STEM concepts to fostering a love for sustainability and the environment, gardening offers hands-on learning that supports overall education and growth. We discuss how kitchen gardens encourage kids to explore new foods, the importance of safe practices, and the role of guided risky play. Our guest shares heartwarming stories from their experiences with children in garden settings, showcasing the joy and lessons that grow from the soil. Tune in for inspiration to cultivate green thumbs and curious minds!

Navigating Separation Anxiety

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0300

In today’s episode, we are joined by Tania Johnson from the Institute of Child Psychology to discuss separation anxiety in children. We explore how this common issue affects young children and the signs to look out for. Tania shares valuable insights on how parents and caregivers can support children through this challenging stage, offering practical strategies to ease their anxiety. Tune in for expert advice on fostering emotional resilience and helping children feel secure during transitions.

The Power of Play Based Learning

The Wishing Tree — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0300

In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Dr Sanobia Palkhiwala joins us to unpack the magic of play and its vital role in childhood development. What’s the difference between play and play-based learning? Why is it more than just fun and games? We address these questions and explore how structured play supports learning, creativity, and social skills.

We’ll discuss ways parents can support meaningful play at home, what play might look like in different settings, and how play-based learning lays a strong foundation for the transition to formal schooling. Plus, we tackle common questions: Will my child really play all day in an early learning setting? Why is this better than just staying home? Tune in to learn why play is one of the most powerful tools in early education!

Meet The Hosts

The Wishing Tree — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 09:23:26 +0300

In our first episode, meet your hosts, Lea and Mel — mums, entrepreneurs, and early learning enthusiasts passionate about helping families thrive. Discover what Growing Little Humans is all about, why we started, and how we’ll tackle the big questions parents face. From emotional growth to developmental milestones, we’re here to help you give your kids the best start. Let’s grow, learn, and laugh together!