In this new look at the beginnings of life we tell the story of a child from fertilisation to first birthday through the lens of society, history, and science.

India explores the canonical image of the mother-baby bond, and the speed at which babies make social and emotional connections. Show more

India Rakusen explores the influence that people and place have over labour and birth, and how this has changed over the centuries. Show more

It is so hard to discuss pregnancy loss or unexpected news in pregnancy. But why? India speaks to Clea Harmer CEO of baby loss charity Sands, and Dr Gareth Thomas about screening. Show more

The changes that occur during pregnancy have been felt by people for millennia, but it's only in recent years that we've had data to back those feelings up. India Rakusen explores. Show more

How can we truly plan for something as big and unknowable as birth? What are we forgetting to prepare for, or not being told? Show more

Find out more about the next episodes of Child, coming soon. Show more

India examines how the body reacts and recovers in the first hour after birth and how the rush of love isn’t always instant. Show more

India Rakusen examines choice and consent during birth and how much it’s prioritised when services are stretched. Show more

India Rakusen explores the final stages of labour through to crowning, and examines how pain has been acknowledged historically and in the modern day. Show more

India explores the complicated world of nutrition with the help of Dr Emma Derbyshire. And what are we not exploring when it comes to our influence over an unborn baby? Show more

India explores due dates. She speaks to Holly Dunsworth, who is challenging the obstetrical dilemma. How does this theory impact the way we view what pregnant bodies can achieve? Show more

India heads to the hospital where she's due to give birth to speak to the director of midwifery, a consultant obstetrician and a doula about the breakdown and rebuilding of trust. Show more

Find out more about the next episodes of Child, coming soon. Show more

Milk. However it comes, its a vital source of life. India Rakusen explores its various forms and the history and politics that have shaped the way we view how we feed our babies. Show more

So many huge emotional shifts are happening in the 'Fourth Trimester'. We discuss postnatal care, the history of lying-in and postnatal depression. Show more

Play is just fun, giggles and brightly coloured toys, right? India Rakusen speaks to Rebecca Saxe and Graham Music about why we play and what makes good play. Show more

India Rakusen explores the concept of “maialogical time”, and how the new rhythms and disruptions that come with a new baby could be embraced. Show more

Sleep. It drives people crazy. When did we start getting so anxious about baby sleep, and what’s ‘normal’ for a baby anyway? Show more

India Rakusen examines infant motor development and looks at whether milestones are a thing of the past, or whether they can still be of use. Show more