Wondering how to actually play with a newborn? In today’s episode, I’m answering one mom’s question that many new parents have: “How do I play with my baby when they’re so little?”

As a Pediatric Developmental Therapist, I walk you through 7 easy and powerful ways to bond with your newborn while supporting their development in the first weeks of life. These aren’t complicated or time-consuming—they’re intentional and nurturing.

You'll learn:

• Why eye contact builds social-emotional skills

• How skin-to-skin and gentle touch support regulation

• What high-contrast visuals do for early vision

• How to use your voice, babywearing, and sensory play to spark early learning

Whether you're a new mom soaking in the snuggles or a parent looking to make the most of your baby's early days, this episode will give you confidence and connection as you nurture your newborn.

🍼 Got a baby or toddler question for me? Ask your question here: [Insert your Google Form link]

👩‍👶 Want daily access to me, a pediatric developmental therapist? Join the Milestone Mom Academy: https://milestonemom.com/mma-waitlist

• My favorite newborn toys for play & development: https://www.amazon.com/shop/milestonemom

Welcome to the very first episode of The Milestone Mom Podcast! 🎉 I'm Ehrica Dorsey, a pediatric developmental therapist and the creator of the Milestone Mom Academy, and I’m so glad you’re here. In this powerful kickoff to Season One, we’re diving into one of the most tender and misunderstood phases of early motherhood—the Fourth Trimester.

You might be asking, "Isn’t pregnancy only three trimesters?" Yes—but those first 12 weeks after birth are just as important, both for your baby and for you. In this episode, I’ll walk you through what’s really going on developmentally with your newborn, what your baby actually needs (hint: it's not expensive gadgets), and how your loving presence is shaping your baby’s brain in powerful, life-giving ways.

We’ll also bust some myths about spoiling babies, explore why responsive parenting is essential, and gently remind you that you don’t need to have it all figured out to be a great mom.

You'll walk away with practical tips, real encouragement, and a whole lot of grace for this sacred season.

👶 Don’t forget to download your FREE Baby & Toddler Toolkit in the show notes and learn more about how you can join the Milestone Mom Academy. (Both coming soon), https://milestonemom.com

If you have concerns with your baby or toddlers development, you can find the Early Intervention program in your state, which is a birth-36 month program. You will find it here.

✨ You are doing holy, important work, mama. And your baby is so lucky to have you.

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:13

Welcome to the very first season of the Milestone Mom Podcast! I'm your host, Ehrica Dorsey, a pediatric developmental therapist, mom of faith, and the creator of the Milestone Mom Academy. This podcast is your safe space for grace-filled guidance, gentle encouragement, and expert-backed developmental support for your baby's very first months of life, from birth to 6 months.

In this kickoff episode, we’ll explore what you can expect this season as we gently walk through the early milestones of your baby’s life. From the magic of the fourth trimester and newborn routines, to tummy time tips, sleep support, bonding through play, and noticing signs of developmental growth (or delay). This season is all about laying a strong, faith-filled foundation., one milestone at a time.

💛 Whether you’re holding a newborn in the middle of the night or tuning in during naptime, know this:

• You are not alone.
• You were chosen for your baby on purpose.
• And you are doing kindgom work in your home.

📢 Plus, you’ll hear how to join the Milestone Mom Academy, a low-cost monthly community where you’ll receive personalized support, milestone education, a community of moms who get it, and direct access to Ehrica for all your child development questions. Keep in mind that the Milestone Mom Academy is for moms who have little one ages birth to 36 months.

✨ Mentioned in this episode:

• Join the Milestone Mom Academy: https://milestonemom.com

📖 “ He will tend his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that are with young.” Isaiah 40:11