CBeebies Parenting

How do you tell a young child their parents are separating? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore honest, age-appropriate conversations that can help children feel safe when family life changes.

Broadcaster and former Love Island contestant Laura Anderson shares her experience of being a single mum and creating a blended family for her three-year-old daughter.

Podcaster and author of The Co-Parent: A Toolkit for Parenting Together, Apart Aaron Dale discusses communication between co-parents, keeping children out of adult conflict and learning to respond rather than react.

Psychotherapist Zara Kadir explains why children need simple information, reassurance that the separation is not their fault, and reminders about what will stay the same.

For more advice and support, visit the CBeebies Parenting website. Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Where does ordinary parental tiredness end and burnout begin? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore the warning signs that can leave parents feeling overwhelmed.

DJ, broadcaster and author Ashley James shares her experience of sleep deprivation, overstimulation and balancing motherhood with her career. She also explains why sharing the mental load and making time for herself help her step back before reaching breaking point.

Clinical psychologist Dr Emma Hepburn explains how burnout can affect daily life and why it is important to notice the signs early. She offers realistic ways to reduce pressure, ask for support and start topping up your 'body budget'.

If you've been affected by anything in this episode, you can find support links on the BBC's Action Line website.

For more advice and support, visit the CBeebies Parenting website. Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Why does parental guilt follow us into so many parts of family life? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore guilt around work, missed bedtimes, nursery drop-offs and finding time for yourself.

Presenter Siân Welby shares her experience of returning to work after having her daughter, while parenting expert and author of The Work-Parent Switch Anita Cleare explains how to question unhelpful guilt and focus on the small moments that strengthen the relationships with our children.

For more advice and support, visit the CBeebies Parenting website. Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

How can singing and music help children learn, connect and express themselves? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore why music can be such a powerful part of family life, from babies hearing voices before they are born to children developing their own musical tastes.

MOBO and Mercury Prize nominated musician Kojey Radical talks about music at home, becoming a dad and learning to embrace the songs and sounds his son naturally loves. Professor Lauren Stewart, a professor in the neuroscience of music at the University of Roehampton and consultant on the Happy Song, the first piece of music scientifically proven to make babies smile, explains why singing to children is not about having a perfect voice, but about communication, bonding and emotional connection.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Starting school is a big milestone, so what does school readiness really mean? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B are live from the CBeebies House studio in Salford, in front of an audience of local parents and children, to explore how families can help little ones build confidence, independence and everyday skills without putting pressure on them to be academically ahead.

With CBeebies already helping children explore that big step through shows like Dodge’s Pup School, this episode looks at how parents and carers can support school readiness through play, routines and reassurance. Clinical psychologist and CBeebies Parenting expert Dr Martha Deiros Collado shares practical advice on separation, asking for help and managing big feelings.

The Traitors fan favourite turned presenter Minah Shannon talks about preparing her daughter for school, while Emma Gill, Parents Editor at the Manchester Evening News, shares what local families often worry about, from school gate nerves to getting extra support.

Visit the CBeebies Parenting website for expert-backed advice, activities and practical support around starting school. There’s also the Get Ready to Go with CBeebies song, which families can watch and sing along to together as a fun way to start conversations about school, routines and feelings.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Boredom. It’s a word that strikes fear into the hearts of parents everywhere. Because let's be honest, the moment a child says, 'I'm boooored,' many of us feel an urgent need to become all singing, all dancing entertainers, and activity planners, all rolled into one.

But what if boredom isn't the enemy? What if those moments of unstructured play are where imagination, creativity, and a little bit of independence begin? What happens when we accept our own experiences of parental boredom?

Well, join Katie and Guv as they explore why it's okay, and maybe even healthy, for us and our little ones to be bored from time to time with NHS GP, TV doctor, Strictly star and author of The Mother Load: Every Mother’s Guide to Juggling Health, Dr Punam Krishan and experimental social psychologist at the University of Essex, Dr Wijnand van Tilburg, whose research specialises in boredom.

So step away from the glue gun and start listening.

Recorded in front of a live audience at Camp Bestival, Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore why parents so often feel judged for the choices they make and the best ways of dealing with it.

In The Library tent, with the sounds of the main stage drifting in from outside, they sat down with viral content creator MumBum and GP and author of How to Be a Dad, Dr Oscar Duke, to talk about the judgements they've faced as parents.

Feeling judged is something that can seep into every part of parenting. It's there in the small decisions and the big ones, in the comments people make, the looks they give, and even the assumptions we make about what others might be thinking.

And sometimes it's not even coming from other people. Sometimes it's the voice in our own heads, telling us we should be calmer, more patient, more organised, more present, more fun... more everything.

So why do parents often feel judged? We explore what really matters and what we can afford to let go of.

For more ideas and resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com

You might not believe it, but both Charlie and comedian Sara have struggled with shyness their entire lives.

Shyness affects half of UK adults and can often begin in childhood. How should we approach shyness in our kids? Author and confidence coach Nadia helps to provide some answers.

Going on holiday with babies, toddlers or young children can feel like a very different kind of break. There are snacks to pack, sleep routines to think about, spare clothes, travel toys, nappies, long journeys, new surroundings and the challenge of being away from familiar home comforts. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B put together a guide to family holidays, exploring how parents can travel with little ones with a bit less stress and a lot more confidence.

Anna Whitehouse, also known as Mother Pukka, shares her honest take on travelling with children, from agreeing who does what and who the ‘designated flight parent’ is, to letting go of the idea that every holiday has to look perfect.

Travel expert and author of travel blog Bridges and Balloons, Victoria Watts Kennedy, offers practical advice on planning a holiday that suits your family, not someone else’s. She shares tips on packing light, preparing for flights, managing sleep and remembering that babies and children can be more adaptable than we imagine.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

How can parents help children feel calmer when they need to see a doctor, visit the dentist or go to hospital? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore why health appointments can feel worrying for children, from sterile waiting rooms and strange smells, to bright lights and unusual equipment, and look at simple ways to make those moments less stressful for the whole family.

JLS star and voice of The Dentist’s Apprentice, Aston Merrygold, shares how his children have each responded differently to dentists, jabs and hospital visits and the tricks that have helped in his own family.

NHS GP and TV doctor, Dr Sara Kayat, explains why children can feel anxious about healthcare appointments and how parents can help them prepare, from using play to make doctors and dentists feel more familiar, to reading books and being honest about what might happen.

For more ideas, resources and advice, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

How can we help children become brave without putting them in danger or passing on our own worries? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore how parents can support children to climb, jump, explore and take safe risks, while learning when to step in and when to give them space to work things out for themselves.

Saturday Night Live UK star and toddler mum Emma Sidi shares how she gives her young son space to crawl, climb and test things out in a safe environment. She also reflects on her own childhood, becoming a parent, and the bravery it can take to keep doing the things that make you feel like yourself.

Professor of Child Psychology Helen Dodd explains why adventurous play can help children build confidence, resilience and independence. She shares practical advice on managing parental anxiety, including why repeating ‘be careful’ may not always help and how pausing before stepping in can give children the chance to problem-solve for themselves.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website. Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

How can we feel more confident in our parenting choices and quiet our inner critic? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore what it takes to trust ourselves as parents, overcome self-doubt and understand the positive impact confidence can have on our children.

Atomic Kitten singer and mum of five Natasha Hamilton opens up about losing confidence in her parenting during the height of her fame and the journey to rebuilding it. She also shares how her children have been her biggest supporters, cheering her on throughout her musical career, including the release of her debut EP, Extraction.

Clinical Psychologist and perinatal expert Florence Bristow also joins the conversation, offering practical ways to challenge self-criticism and explains why we should pay attention to our inner “shark music.”

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Winning can feel brilliant and losing can feel overwhelming, especially when children are still learning how to manage disappointment, excitement and frustration. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B look at how parents can help children cope with wins and losses, from the football World Cup and sports day to board games at home.

Women’s Super League winner, Euro 2022 champion and England’s all-time leading women’s goalscorer Ellen White shares what football has taught her about competition, teamwork and bouncing back after defeat. She also talks about life as a mum, and how she’s helping her daughter enjoy taking part without always needing to win.

Kate Silverton, is a former BBC News reader, now qualified child counsellor and author of There’s No Such Thing As Naughty, she explains why losing can trigger such big emotions in young children and offers practical ways to support them in the moment.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Patrescence is the term used to describe the physical, psychological and emotional changes men can go through as they become fathers. In this episode, Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore the science behind fatherhood and look at what can shift for dads in the early stages of parenting, from identity and confidence to bonding, care and support.

Dr Anna Machin, evolutionary anthropologist, pioneer of fatherhood science and author of The Life of Dad: The Making of a Modern Father, explains what research tells us about patrescence. She shares how becoming a father can involve hormonal changes, brain changes and a growing sense of emotional connection. Anna also discusses paternal mental health, the confidence gap that can open up if dads have less time at home in the early months, and why fathers should be recognised as equal parents rather than seen as secondary helpers.

CBeebies presenter Nigel Clarke brings his own experience as a father of three and founder of Dadvengers. He reflects on fully immersing himself in fatherhood, the value of community and encouragement, and why it is never too late for dads to build a stronger bond with their children and feel more secure in their role.

For more ideas and resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

If you’ve been affected by anything in this episode, you can find support links on the BBC Action Line website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B take on loneliness in parenthood. Inspired by a listener’s message, they explore why parenting can sometimes feel isolating, even when your days are full and your child is at the centre of everything.

Former Love Island contestant and mental health advocate Malin Andersson shares her experience of loneliness in parenthood while navigating grief, co-parenting and a major shift in identity. She reflects on how reconnecting with herself helped her move forward, and how parenthood changed her friendships, priorities and sense of what really matters.

Clinical psychologist Dr Chanelle Dennis explains why loneliness is different from simply being alone, and why so many parents struggle to talk about it. She offers practical advice on opening up to others, making space for connection, valuing small everyday interactions and knowing when it may be time to seek extra support.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

This episode includes discussion of child loss and bereavement. You can find support links on the BBC Action Line website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk

Why do babies laugh, and what can those early giggles tell us about how they are growing?

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore the surprising power of laughter in the very earliest stages of life, from a baby’s first smile or chuckle to the bigger laughs that come with play, connection and shared joy.

Professor Sophie Scott, Director of the Institute for Cognitive Neuroscience, and Head of the Speech Communications Group at University College London explains how laughter begins far earlier than many parents might think, and that it's not really about jokes at first but grows out of social interaction. She shares how laughter helps babies bond with their parents, and how it can reduce stress and create a sense of safety.

Comedy writer and actor Brona C. Titley brings the lived experience of laughter at home, reflecting on the delight of a baby’s first giggles to the funny little routines children create before they can even speak. She talks about how humour can turn everyday parenting moments into opportunities for connection, whether that is bedtime, brushing teeth or your child demanding another snack.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

If you’ve been affected by anything in this episode, you can find support links on the BBC Action Line website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk

Katie Thistleton & Guvna B return on Saturday 6 June with a brand new series of CBeebies Parenting Download.

Each week, they’ll unpack the parenting headlines everyone’s talking about, with warmth, insight and expert-led conversations — helping you make sense of the stories and what they mean for your family.

Comedians Louise Boyce and Hannah East bring the laughs! The pair chat about the chaos, joy, and hilarity of imaginative play with kids, navigating the first year of parenting, and tips for finding fun in everyday moments with what you already have.

Plus, a make-believe master calls into the show to try some of his characters and Louise introduces us to her secret weapon - Philippa the hand puppet.

Holly Ramejkis, aka The Body Positive Mum is shattering taboos about body confidence on this empowering episode. She shares her journey to post-partum confidence and gives practical tips to callers for building body gratitude and acceptance.

Holly and Charlie share their experiences with social media pressures and raising body-positive kids.

This episode contains some frank discussion about how women’s bodies change during and after pregnancy as well as feelings about sex after giving birth, so you might want to make sure you listen without any little ears around!

Presenter, author and parenting campaigner Anna Whitehouse joins our hosts for a frank conversation about miscarriage & baby loss.

The trio talk about processing traumatic experiences, seeking partner & workplace support and practical ways friends/family can help you to heal.

Callers share their vulnerable stories of loss.

If you or someone you know is grieving, support can be found via organisations listed at BBC Action Line.

Midwife and “Milkfluencer” Shaheeda Yasmeen-Khan joins the helpline to bust breastfeeding myths and unpack the slogan, “fed is best.”

Charlie and Holly ask questions about pumping, formula and mum guilt. Shaheda demystifies baby feeding and supports whatever choice is right for your family.

1 in 7 babies need neonatal intensive care - but so many parents are blindsided by NICU stays.

Dr Frankie Harrison shares her experience of an unexpected NICU birth and helps callers process impulsive control, separation anxiety and guilt. She offers honest reassurance and practical advice on coping.

Autism advocate James Hunt shares the realities of raising his two autistic sons.

This episode covers everything from diagnosis and “grieving what you expected” to celebrating small “inchstones” like a first text saying “Hello Dad.”

An honest conversation about parenting burnout, resilience and finding light on hard days.

TikTok couple, Caitlin and Leah join Charlie and Holly to talk about the realities of LBTQ parenting: answering awkward “who’s the real mum?” questions, raising kids in a same-sex relationship and the real story behind how they got together.

Special guests Stuart and Francis also send in their question.

Parenting through unimaginable loss: Kelsey Parker, widow of Tom Parker (The Wanted) shares how she navigates grief, resilience and raising children after losing a partner and experiencing child loss. 

Callers share their experiences of navigating child and sibling loss while continuing to parent.

If you or someone you know is grieving, support can be found via organisations listed at BBC Action Line.

Parenting styles and advice shift across decades as guidance on sleep, discipline and children’s autonomy changes. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B ask what truly evolves from one generation to the next and how parents and grandparents can compare approaches without friction.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor, singer and mum of five, focuses on keeping core values consistent while tailoring responses to each child. She highlights the importance of communication, aiming for two way respect and staying flexible when one child needs a different approach from a sibling.

Janet Ellis MBE, former Blue Peter presenter, mum of three and grandmother of six, shares her simple grandparent rule of thumb. Wait to be asked, stay supportive without taking over and respect the parents’ non negotiables so everyone remains on the same team.

Clinical psychologist Dr Tara Porter explains why good enough, relationship first parenting, balanced with firm but kind boundaries, tends to serve children better than more extreme parenting approaches.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808.

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B raced to the studio to record a bonus episode to find out what the new government guidance on screen time for under-fives in England means for parents.

BBC Education and Family Editor Branwen Jeffreys and Clinical Psychologist Dr Martha Deiros Collado join them to examine this new advice and share their screen time tips.

You can find more advice around screen time for under-fives on the CBeebies Parenting website.

You can also check out the government’s Best Start in Life site for more information around the guidance mentioned in the podcast.

Matrescence is the physical, psychological and emotional changes you go through after the birth of your child, but despite being coined over 50 years ago, it is a word many still don’t understand.

In this episode, Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore how pregnancy and early parenthood can reshape the brain, alter priorities and change identity. They discuss why moving beyond the phrase ‘baby brain’ helps parents feel understood, and how recognising a real transition can change expectations at home, in friendships and at work.

BBC Health and Science Reporter Smitha Mundasad shares insight from the Be Mother project in Spain, which scanned the brains of 127 pregnant volunteers and found neurological changes in mothers-to-be. Smitha explored this in her documentary Baby Brain: What’s really going on?

Author, podcast host and Motherkind founder Zoe Blaskey shares her own experience of matrescence and the work she's been doing to raise awareness of these changes with other parents and businesses. She also sets matrescence as a life stage alongside adolescence, to frame it as a normal developmental process.

There is information and support for pregnancy related issues on the BBC Action Line website www.bbc.co.uk/actionline.

For more ideas and resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

How do you fit movement and exercise into family life when you are tired, busy and juggling everything at once? Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore realistic, low‑pressure ways to get active with your little ones. From five‑minute bursts at home to quick trips outside, the focus is on doing what you can, when you can, so everyone feels better.

Harry Aikines‑Aryeetey (Gladiators star Nitro) talks about keeping activity playful and letting children lead the way. He explains how becoming a parent shifted his motivation from performance to wellbeing and connection. Whether it is seizing a sunny hour after school to ride a new bike, turning a trampoline park into a family workout, or joining in alongside them at a class, his message is to take part and look for balance, even on busy days.

The nation’s PE teacher, Joe Wicks MBE, brings a short and doable outlook for parents who are pressed for time. He champions five‑minute resets, home workouts even in small spaces, and quick walks in fresh air that lift energy and mood. Exercise, he says, is a tool for patience as much as fitness, and he highlights the importance of encouraging active play for families, even when you do not feel in the mood.

For more ideas and resources on getting active and playing with your kids, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Parents often worry that their children just aren't ready to take the step up to school. Early years educator Christina Lydon takes questions on how to help kids start school with confidence.

For BBC AI Unpacked Week Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore Artificial Intelligence chatbots, where they can genuinely help parents and when to be cautious, offering practical ideas to save time and stress while keeping human judgment at the centre.

Singer, songwriter and Grammy, BRIT and Ivor Novello award-winner Kamille shares how she uses AI to help organise her parenting life from navigating missed naps to managing her busy schedule.

BBC technology editor Zoe Kleinman explains what AI chatbots are, how they work and why some people can become over reliant on them. Zoe recommends we use AI as a 'second brain' and gives expert advice on how to use this technology safely and effectively.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Recorded in front of a live audience at London’s Natural History Museum, this bonus episode brings Katie Thistleton and Guvna B together with CBeebies legend, Andy Day, research psychologist and founder of the Good Play Guide, Dr Amanda Gummer, and celebrity parents, Olivia and Alex Bowen.

The group share playful childhood memories: from Olivia’s forest dens to Alex’s love of drawing, Andy’s dinosaur games with his brothers and Dr Amanda’s board game evenings with her grandparents, setting the scene for how early experiences shape the way we play with children today.

They explore why play can feel difficult to prioritise, how busy routines add pressure and why even short bursts of focused attention can help little ones learn. The guests talk openly about finding ideas in everyday life, whether that’s outdoor time, quick imaginative games or playful routines inspired by children’s favourite shows.

This bonus episode offers reassurance that play does not have to be perfect to be meaningful. For more ideas and resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore how to build a balanced play diet that helps children learn, imagine and unwind, even when time is tight. They focus on turning everyday routines into quick games, choosing ideas that work indoors and outside, and using short bursts of activity to keep things fun without adding pressure.

Research psychologist and founder of the Good Play Guide Dr Amanda Gummer explains how to blend active, social, solo and calm moments across the day, and why letting children lead makes play more engaging.

DJ and presenter of the CBeebies Parenting Helpline podcast Charlie Hedges offers what is working in her home right now, including small ‘silly’ rituals that build connection and make ordinary moments feel special. From treasure hunts for leaves and stones and a morning coffee machine dance, to simple make believe, she shows how a cardboard box and mud pies can deliver big smiles on any budget.

For more information, research and guidance, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore how to get ready for another baby when there is already a child or children at home, focusing on what to say, how to keep routines steady and the small moments that help everyone feel settled and involved.

Professional child development and parenting support specialist Lorraine Lee explains how to handle big feelings around scans, baby showers and changing routines. From using a simple 'feelings' chart to keeping language calm and age appropriate, and why aiming for equality rather than sameness helps children feel valued. She also shares phrasing to avoid negativity about the baby, such as attributing every change to ‘because of the baby’, and offers tips for tricky school days when an older child imagines home is more exciting than class.

6Music presenter and DJ Jamz Supernova, who is expecting her second child, shares what is working in her home right now, including small rituals that build connection, and a collaborative family approach to planning life around the new arrival. Together they underline that there is no perfect age gap, and that simple, consistent steps can help older children feel prepared and confident about their new sibling.

For more information and guidance, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Romance after kids can look and feel very different, but CBeebies Parenting Download is here to help reignite that spark. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B are joined by TV personality and presenter Scarlett Moffatt, psychologist Dr Lalitaa Suglani and dating coach Hayley Quinn to decode love languages, shifting routines, and share Valentine’s ideas for tired couples and single parents.

Former Gogglebox star, Scarlett offers a playful way to defuse petty rows, suggests keeping some individual interests and hobbies so there is more to talk about than nappies, and encourages parents to accept the inevitable changes that come with parenting. Dr Lalitaa explains how priorities shift, why naming feelings of guilt or shame helps, and how short, consistent moments of emotional intimacy can begin to rebuild connection. Hayley talks about her own parenting experience and recommends micro rituals like a quick phone-free walk and, for single parents, advises honesty, plus small weekly steps toward dating at a manageable pace.

Expect practical takeaways on sharing the load without scorekeeping, cherishing bite-size time together and keeping Valentine’s low pressure. For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website. Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Friendships often shift when children arrive, from missed invites and new routines to the relief of finding people who are in the same boat as you. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B look at why these changes happen and how to handle them with confidence, offering relatable stories and practical ideas to keep connections strong.

TV personality and presenter Dani Dyer shares what helped her after becoming a mum at 24, from leaning on childhood friends to using baby groups as a pressure free place to talk with other parents. She also explains why time with non-parent mates helps her stay connected and feel like herself.

Journalist and author Claire Cohen explains the 'friendship gap' that opens when life stages no longer match and shares straightforward ways to stay close, including speaking up when you feel left out and giving each other flexibility while routines change.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Finding time to read with your child is not always straightforward. Recent research suggests fewer families are reading aloud and some parents have said it doesn't feel enjoyable. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore why this happens and how a small, workable routine can make story time feel easy and fun again.

Camilla Reid, author of the Pip and Posy and the Peekaboo book series, explains how short, simple plots and interactive pages help young children stay engaged, and why a few minutes most days can be enough to build a lasting habit. Performance storyteller and author of Bedtime Stories: Beautiful Black Tales from the Past, Wendy Shearer, offers confidence‑building guidance on voice, pace and expression, and reassures parents that perfection is not required. If reading feels daunting or difficult, you can tell the story from the pictures, or make up your own version and still get the same benefits.

Whether the barrier is tiredness, time pressure or low confidence, this conversation offers reassurance, expert perspective and practical ideas to rebuild a joyful, sustainable story time. For more ideas and resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

67% of couples say their relationship satisfaction dropped in the years after having kids. Can it be repaired?

Psychosexual therapist Kate Moyle talks to Charlie about re-prioritising our relationships, navigating the invisible load and building intimacy back from the ground up.

Callers share their vulnerable stories of disconnection and hope for the future.

Parental anxiety can appear in countless forms, from restless nights and racing thoughts to the constant feeling that you need to be one step ahead. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B look at why these feelings surface for so many parents and how they might shift over time.

Former Traitors winner Leanne Quigley shares her experiences as a mum of twins, reflecting on the uncertainty of IVF, the shock of premature labour at 26 weeks and the intensity of raising two lively children after such a difficult start. Psychologist Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo offers clear, practical guidance on what can sit beneath these emotional responses, how the mind interprets everyday challenges and what simple techniques can help parents steady themselves when things begin to feel overwhelming.

Whether your moments of doubt come from disrupted sleep, big transitions, growing independence or the mental load of keeping family life moving, this conversation offers reassurance, expert perspective and useful ideas to help you feel more confident and supported in your parenting.

For more information, wellbeing advice and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

Tom Piccirilli gives straight-talking support for new dads. How can you support your partner, bond with your baby and become a new and confident you?

Callers share honest stories and get practical tips to help them show up and thrive as dads. Plus, Tom opens up about his experience of baby loss and grief.

If you're affected by issues raised in this programme, BBC Action Line have details for organisations that may be able to help - https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

Pelvic physiotherapist Clare Bourne talks to Charlie about why prevention beats panic. Is there a how-to guide to healing after birth? And when is it time to seek help?

Callers share their pain journeys and Clare guides them to reclaim movement, intimacy and everyday wins!

Charlie is joined by pediatric sleep consultant Rosey Davidson to talk about surviving sleep deprivation, controversial sleep myths and the science behind controlled crying.

From co-sleeping to nighttime wake-ups, Rosey shares practical and reassuring advice for tired families.

What does it mean to be a man and a father? Do genetics affect our ability to bond? Male fertility advocate Shaun Greenaway talks to Charlie about his powerful journey through male infertility and identity and the realisation that changed his whole life.

If you are affected by the issues raised in this episode, BBC Action Line has links to organisations that may be able to help - https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore why the art of negotiation is such a vital parenting skill and share practical ways to handle everyday standoffs without the stress.

They’re joined by former international hostage and crisis negotiator Nicky Perfect, who reveals how techniques from her high-pressure career can help parents stay calm and in control. Comedian and mum-of-three Hannah East brings stories from her own parenting life, including the time she booked a family trip to Lapland in the middle of the night.

Whether you’re dealing with bedtime battles or family friction, this conversation offers practical strategies to make negotiations easier and parenting more peaceful.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808

How do we set healthy screen limits, build family boundaries and become our child's best digital role models?

Clinical psychologist Dr. Marta Collado helps Charlie answer all your tricky questions about kids’ screen time and online safety.

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore why Christmas can feel overwhelming for children and share practical ways to keep the magic alive without the meltdowns.

They’re joined by comedian and dad of three George Lewis, who reveals how his family adapted festive traditions to reduce stress, and parenting and child behaviour specialist San Mehra, who explains why children experience Christmas overwhelm and how empathy and planning can make all the difference.

Whether you’re planning your first Christmas as a parent or juggling multiple family expectations, this conversation offers practical strategies to reduce sensory overload, manage routines, and create stress-free festive fun for children.

Find more information and resources on the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp 0800 0224808

Early years expert Sophie David packs this festive Parenting Helpline special with loads of practical takeaways!

Sophie shows Charlie that the magic of Christmas truly happens in the home. She demonstrates her top budget-friendly Christmas crafts, homemade gift ideas and creative ways to make magical family memories without overspending.

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B unpack paternal mental health and the often-overlooked challenges dads can face during pregnancy and the early years after their child’s birth.

They’re joined by rapper and mental health advocate Professor Green and podcaster and former Made in Chelsea star Ryan Libbey, who share honest experiences of fatherhood and reveal the barriers men can face when they need help, and why breaking the silence matters.

Clinical psychologist and researcher specialising in perinatal mental health, Dr. Jill Domoney, explains how paternal mental health impacts the whole family ecosystem. She highlights common signs that dads might be struggling and offers practical advice on where to find support.

Whether you’re a new dad, a partner, or simply want to understand more, this episode provides essential insights into spotting symptoms early, reducing stigma, and creating open conversations about mental wellbeing.

This episode contains discussion about depression and difficult pregnancy and birth experiences. Find more information on the CBeebies Parenting website. Details of help and support with mental health and pregnancy-related issues are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 0224808

Psychotherapist Philippa Perry joins Charlie and her dad Terry, aka "Gaga," to explore the roles of grandparents, family boundaries, and generational bonds.

Philippa has honest advice on everything from choosing nicknames to “toxic” therapy culture and navigating festive season tensions.

If you are affected by issues raised in this programme, BBC Action Line has details of organisations that may be able to offer support - https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B unpack Sharenting — where parents post children’s photos and milestones on social media. They’re joined by comedy creator and influencer Jane Dowden, who explains why she never shows her twins’ faces online and shares creative ways to make relatable content without compromising privacy.

Child psychotherapist and cyber-trauma expert Catherine Knibbs reveals the hidden risks of oversharing. She explains how innocent images can be misused, and why even private accounts aren’t truly safe. Catherine also explores the emotional drivers behind Sharenting and offers practical advice for parents who want to stay connected.

Whether you post occasionally or share every milestone, this episode offers essential insights into privacy, consent, and the long-term impact of raising children with a digital footprint.

Find more information on the CBeebies Parenting website. Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.com or WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

How do you talk to a child about death? In this episode of CBeebies Parenting Download, Radio 1 presenter Katie Thistleton and rapper Guvna B are joined by McFly star and children’s author Tom Fletcher, and child, adult and family therapist Amanda Orange, to unpack one of the toughest conversations a parent can face. Tom shares the inspiration behind his new book Pudsey and the Thread of Hope, which he's written for BBC Children in Need, and Amanda offers practical advice on explaining death to young children, avoiding confusing language, and using creativity to help families navigate grief.

You can find more information on the CBeebies Parenting website. Details of organisations offering information and support with bereavement are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.

Katie Thistleton & Guvna B introduce CBeebies Parenting Download — a brand-new podcast unpacking the week’s parenting headlines with warmth, insight and expert-led conversations.

Toddler tantrum advice as psychologist Dr Emma Hepburn, aka The Psychology Mum joins the studio from Scotland. Emma answers a call from a listener struggling with their child’s behaviour when feeling big emotions.

Dads’ mental health practitioner Raoul Lindsay chats to Holly and Charlie about how dads can look after themselves. Raoul answers questions about dads’ roles and advises a dad who is currently away from his child.

Dr Emma Svanberg joins Charlie and Holly to talk attachment styles. Emma offers advice to a listener whose daughter often refuses to let her partner carry out care duties at home.

Sex and relationship therapist Rachel stops by to chat about sex and physical touch in parenthood. A listener asks how to navigate a lack of intimacy since becoming a mum.

Relationship counsellor Tamara speaks with Holly and Charlie about co-parenting relationships. Holly recounts her own experiences as a child, while a caller asks how best to manage her family’s co-parenting routine.

Children’s speech development queries are answered by speech and language therapist Emma Pomroy. A caller asks about how to get her child saying more words.

Potty training expert Brenda from ERIC, the children’s bowel and bladder charity, chats to Holly and Charlie about getting children using the loo. Brenda answers a call about how a listener might go about potty training their 4 year old daughter.

Children’s nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reid chats with Charlie and Holly and takes calls from parents about their mealtime struggles. What can you do to avoid fussy eating and how can parents model a healthy attitude to food for their little ones?

Lynn Beattie, aka Mrs Mummypenny, joins Charlie and Holly and shares her money saving tips from affording birthday parties to cooking economically. A caller asks for advice on managing nursery fees when working part-time.

Clinical psychologist Dr Alison McClymont joins Charlie and Holly to talk about the often-unspoken subject of birth trauma. A caller shares her story and asks how she can help others who may have had a similar experience.

Morning Live’s Dr Oscar Duke joins Charlie and Holly in the studio to discuss parental overwhelm and dad guilt, and a dad of four calls to ask for advice on keeping a sense of perspective and calm.

Psychologist Dr Suzy Reading joins Charlie and Holly to discuss parent wellbeing. A caller asks about informed decisions on work-life balance, and Suzy shares some easy self-soothing techniques for when times are tough.

Midwife Pip has caller questions on the dos and don’ts of pregnancy exercise, and birth option decisions. She shares pelvic floor tips with Charlie and Holly and encourages expectant parents to speak up for themselves.

Sleep specialist Dr Lyndsey Hookway joins Charlie and Holly in the studio to discuss sleep and bedtime routines. And a caller has a dilemma – they’re getting little sleep and they’re about to start back at work.

Emotional development chat as Charlie and Holly are joined by clinical psychologist Dr Martha. We hear about positive emotional development, and a caller asks about helping their child with their feelings.

TV doctor Dr Ranj joins Charlie and Holly to discuss physical development. A caller gets the lowdown on first steps and other milestones, and Dr Ranj reveals common questions parents as him as a paediatrician.

Are you going potty over potty training, suffering from a shortage of sleep, or battling baby bills? Charlie and Holly get you expert help with your parenting problems, to make parenting that little bit easier.