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Disclaimer – This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please contact a medical practitioner if you are concerned and have any medical issue.
In this episode we’re diving into the fascinating world of infant talking — and no, I don’t mean first words. I’m talking about the incredible ways your baby is already communicating with you before they can speak — through eye contact, facial expressions, cries, body movements, and even scent.
To help unpack this topic, I’m joined by the amazing Ann McKitrick, host of the Parenting in the First 3 Years podcast. With over 30 years of experience as a child development professor and parenting coach, Ann has helped thousands of families tune into the subtle ways infants express themselves — long before they say “mama” or “dada.”
In this episode, you’ll hear Ann share a moving story of how she cared for a foster baby who had experienced trauma and wouldn’t stop crying — until she began singing a specific John Lennon song. The moment that baby quieted, simply from the sound of her voice, is a powerful example of how infant talking goes far beyond words. It’s all about connection.
If you’ve ever felt unsure about what your baby is trying to tell you, or worried you’re missing something important, this episode will leave you feeling more confident and connected. You’ll gain practical insights into how to read your baby’s cues, and how your loving responses help shape their brain development, emotional well-being, and early sense of security.
Understanding infant talking can help you become more attuned to your baby’s needs, respond in ways that build trust, and create those magical moments of connection — even during the most sleep-deprived days.
Whether you’re feeding your baby in the middle of the night, heading out on a pram walk, or stealing a few quiet minutes to yourself, this is a must-listen that could transform how you see and respond to your little one.
🎧 Tap play to discover how your baby is already talking to you — and how you can talk back in ways that truly matter.
What You Will Learn From This Episode
- How to recognise the subtle ways your newborn communicates their needs before they can speak.
- Why responding to your baby’s cries and cues helps build lasting trust and emotional connection.
- How simple actions like talking, holding, and observing your baby can transform how you bond in the early weeks.
Links Mentioned in the Episode
- Nurtured Noggins website.
- Nurtured Noggins Facebook page.
- Nurtured Noggins on Instagram.
- Parenting in the First 3 Years podcast.
Send Me Your Questions or Feedback
- Submit your questions via e-mail.
- Submit your question via a voice message.
- Make a donation to help support First Time Mum’s Chat.
About Ann McKitrick
Ann McKitrick is an early childhood specialist, speaker and educator who’s passionate about helping parents feel confident as they navigate the early years.
With over 30 years of experience in education, Ann brings a wealth of knowledge and heart to the families she supports.
She’s the founder of Nurtured Noggins and Momentum, where she equips women with the tools to raise emotionally healthy children while building meaningful, purpose-driven careers. Ann’s warm, down-to-earth style makes complex parenting topics easy to understand and apply.
Whether she’s speaking on stage, hosting her podcast Parenting in the First Three Years, or guiding women through her dinner party coaching program, Ann empowers you to lead with love, curiosity, and confidence.
