CBeebies Parenting Download is back

Download: Patrescence and the hidden science of fatherhood

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

Download: Tackling parental loneliness

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

Download: Why do babies laugh? With a neuroscientist and a comedy writer

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

CBeebies Parenting Download is back

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.

Helpline: Fostering Imagination with Louise Boyce and Hannah East

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.