Baby September 2018

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SEPTEMBER 2018 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

NEW!

Benedict

Cumberbatch on fatherhood

Make a splash

The benefits of baby swimming

THE PORTLAND HOSPITAL TALKS

C-SECTIONS

Carole Middleton

THE ULTIMATE BABY SHOWER

We review the

BUGABOO FOX The Food Medic

HOW TO HAVE A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

HELLO WORLD

£4.20

TAKING YOU FROM DECORATING THE NURSERY AND PACKING YOUR HOSPITAL BAG, TO BOOKING BABY’S FIRST HOLIDAY

forget we’d love to but…

have it all with the new bugaboo fox

say ‘YES!’ the new bugaboo fox is here to help you say ‘YES!’ to all the things you love to do visit bugaboo.com/fox to find out how © copyright Bugaboo International BV

FOUR SEASONS

Q U I N TA D O L A G O

Your Time, Your Place For friends, family, or just you

FA M I LY F R I E N DLY . U P S I DE - D OW N W OR L D K I D S C LU B LU X U RY V I L L A S W I T H PR I VAT E S W I M M I NG P O OL

. HOM E F R OM HOM E ATM O S PH E R E

H E AT E D I N D O OR A N D O U T D O OR P O OL S . OH , A N D T H E BE A C H OF CO U RS E

F O U R S E A S ON S FA I R WAY S . Q U I N TA D O L A G O . A LG A RV E . P ORT U G A L

For enquiries and bookings please visit www.fourseasonsfairways.com

CONTENTS SEP TEM BER 2018

40

Benedict Cumberb atch reveals how mu ch he loves being a fat her (p.62)

27 Amin wears knitted cotton romper, £58, Pepa & Co. Rug, £20, Ikea. Cushion, £45, Caramel. Silk gauze quilt, £95, Caramel.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN

FEATURES

62 A NEW BATCH Actor and father-of-two Benedict Cumberbatch talks films and family 71 PARTY TIME: BABY SHOWERS Carole Middleton offers her tips on making this joyous occasion memorable 72 BEHIND THE BRAND: ADORABLE TOTS We meet the faces behind the UK’s largest children’s furniture retailer 78 AND BREATHE...

Kiki Morriss unveils the plus-points of doing yoga before and after birth 82 PACK YOUR BAGS What to bring on your trip to hospital 86 DELIVERING THE GOODS Everything you need to know about having a c-section 88 ONLY MUMMY WILL DO How to handle separation anxiety

71

92 SAY CHEESE! Keep baby’s teeth and gums healthy with these top tips from Georgina Blaskey 96 IN THE SWIM OF THINGS Paul Thompson explains the benefits of swimming with your little one 104 SWEET DREAMS Rebecca Moore reveals what to look for when buying a cot 126 BABY COMES FIRST How to find the right childcare for baby

STYLE

40 SUMMER NIGHTS Pair quirky prints with dusky shades of amber, salmon and sunset orange 48 SHOP THE SHOOT Get the look with our high-street edit 55 SPORTY CHIC Stylish pieces that are easy to exercise in and offer maximum comfort Carole Middleton shares her baby shower gift ideas

SHOPPING

21

BABY LOVES Why Stella McCartney’s cartoon-inspired collection should be top of your shopping list 23 SHOP THE THEMES New season fashion for baby’s nursery 102 SITTING PRETTY Combine comfort, safety and style with these timeless, trendy high chairs

FOOD & TRAVEL

107 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest treats for babies, children and parents 109 SUNSHINE CURRY Dr Hazel Wallace shares her favourite pregnancy recipe 110 TASTE SENSATION Delicious and seasonal recipes for baby 115 TRAVEL NEWS The newest escapes for young families

baby-magazine.co.uk | 5

Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Acting Editor Rebecca Moore Online Editor Jennifer Read-Dominguez Sub Editors Natalie Keeler, Hayley Hamilton Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Designer Annel Christopher Freelance Designer Maggie Bonner Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West

118

Publisher Caroline Scott Director of Media James Dobson Marketing & Events Executive Meagan Hyett

116 POSTCARD FROM CRETE Neev Spencer visits one of Greece’s most beautiful islands with her little one in tow 118 TAKE FLIGHT Top tips for heading long-haul with baby 122 BABYMOON BREAKS The best pre-baby getaways in the UK

REGULARS

15

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small 19 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY What’s going on in the UK this September 30 WIN! £4,000-WORTH OF GOODIES Including a pushchair, cot and car seat 33 MY ESSENTIALS Young Gums founder Beth Bentley talks family life and cooking up a storm 36 PEEK-A-BOO Emma O’Donovan rounds up the very best lift-the-flap books 38 INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION Home renovator Sally Fazeli discusses online blogging and motherhood 51 LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES New columnist Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month

102

6 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Head of Market Lyndal Beeton Sales Executive Caroline Kimber Digital and Creative Solutions Manager Ben Leek Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin

Get weaning of f to the best po ssible start with these baby -friendly recip es (p.110)

53 MATERNITY FASHION NEWS Fabulous fashion finds to style your bump 61 DIARY OF A MUM In her first column, Joanna McGarry talks labour, Lucozade and life lessons 67 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus we review the latest Bugaboo Fox 77 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS What’s new in the world of wellbeing 81 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert reports on the facts behind secondary infertility 85 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Get breastfeeding off to a good start with guidance from Professor Amy Brown 91 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt share their tips on tackling morning sickness 94 MEET THE EXPERTS Our healthcare professionals answer your questions about pregnancy and beyond 98 THE REVIEW Laura Mason puts the best baby monitors to the test 101 INTERIOR NEWS Stylish and inspiring finds for your home 125 EDUCATION NEWS What’s new in and out of the classroom 130 INSPIRE We talk business and family life with Happyology founder Jessie Gao

Baby is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: baby-magazine.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 Email: baby@chelseamagazines.com

BABY (print) ISSN 2516-5178 BABY (online) ISSN 2517-813X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2018 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHER: HELEN MARSDEN MODEL: ELECTRA Electra Wears cotton romper, £42, Olivier Baby and Kids. Silk gauze quilt, £95, Caramel.

Be ready for tomorrow You can’t control your destiny, but you can be ready for the stroll ahead.

With an all weather seat, swanky storage system, and the ability to expand to a double or (gasp!) even a twin— the DEMI grow™ really does have it all—no matter what fate may throw your way.

Find out more at nuna.eu

Let baby cosy up with a new furry friend Kids concept musical mobile £30, smallable.com

Liewood rattle £22, natauralbabyshower.com

EDITORS

LETTER

REBECCA MOORE, ACTING EDITOR

@baby_mag_insta

VISIT •

@BabyMagazineUK

E,

@BabyMagazineUK

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#babymagishere

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• B A B Y-

We’d love to see pics of you and your bump, or baby, ith o r first iss e

PU

.U

Cotton joggers £26, tobiasandthebear.com

A Z I N E .C

O

Cotton and bamboo swaddle £34.99, ergopouch.co.uk

pool action and more sea splashing? Jo Caird makes travelling long-haul with a toddler a doddle on page 118 – just don’t forget the aeroplane snacks for parents and child alike.

On drier land we’ve been up and down the country to offer parents and parents-to-be the ultimate in retail therapy with the very best baby boutiques – and I was lucky enough to catch up with the talented Jessie Gao the founder of childrenswear brand Happyology.

Whether you’re a reader in bonnie Scotland, living the coastal life in Cornwall or a citydweller in the big smoke – we’d love to see pics of you and your bump, or baby, with our first issue – just use #babymagishere on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to get involved. You could even bag yourself a spot in the next issue!

And to celebrate our first issue, we’ve gone competition crazy with our £4K giveaway on page 30 – that’s the pushchair, car seat, cot and more sorted. Good luck!

KEE

Gold plated watch £125, oliviaburton.com

Putting an issue together is always an enthusing – albeit somewhat chaotic – experience. But when you’re sending your first national magazine to the printers, excitement levels hit the roof. And at Baby HQ we’ve been working our socks off to make our first monthly mag a whopper!

Firstly, I’m thrilled to welcome the super-talented Joanna McGarry as our new Diary of a Mum columnist – read all about her crash-landing into motherhood on page 61.

We’ve also been joined by My Baba founder and mum-of-three, the wonderful Leonora Bamford, who’ll be spilling the beans on her favourite places to go and what to buy each month, with Leo’s Little Luxuries on page 51.

Whichever stage you’re at we’ve got something for everything – from those running-to-the-toilet moments when morning sickness strikes (p.91), to what to expect if you have your baby delivered by c-section (p.86).

Or if those pregnancy days are over, then we’ve got plenty to keep you and your babe busy – why not take a dip at your local pool?

The benefits of baby taking the plunge are huge says Paul Thomson, founder of Water Babies – find out more on page 96. Want less

@baby_magazine_uk

Leather brogues £46, youngsoles.co.uk baby-magazine.co.uk | 9

N

Where were you born?

I was born in St Thomas’ Hospital, London.

Where do you live now?

I live in Dorking, Surrey – famed for bike riding, British wine and a specific breed of chicken.

What has kept you happy this summer?

Permanently deploying the paddling pool.

Describe motherhood in three words…

So much Lego.

Emma rounds up the very best lift-the-flap books on p.36

SP E

OVAN, JOUR

KISS FM D ER , J C N

NEEV

E MM AO

LEON

F MY BABA

Where were you born?

Wimpole Street, London.

Where do you live now?

When we’re not in London, we’re enjoying the countryside in Oxfordshire.

What has kept you happy this summer?

This scorcher of a heatwave! I love how a proper English summer makes everyone smile.

Describe motherhood in three words…

Terrifying, love, emotional.

Check out Leonora’s new column on p.51

ON ’D

IST AL

A

MFORD, FOUN BA

RO DE

OR

CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

At the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading.

What has kept you happy this summer?

I’ve loved eating al fresco with my little one and taking trips to the beach. This summer has also been quite exciting as my baby has finally started talking!

Describe motherhood in three words…

Joyful, rewarding, exhausting.

Neev explores the beautiful island of Crete with her husband and baby in tow on p.116

When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment

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KEEP U P

BABY ONLINE

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YM A G A ZI N

From choosing a nanny to exclusive weaning recipes, we’ve got expert advice on all areas of parenting

Be sure to stay updated with the latest news and talking points Head online to discover great competitions and giveaways it could be your lucky day!

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First child stays free

Includes: 25% summer special discount, free half board upgrade Saving up to £715 per family of 3, departing 15 August 2018 from London Gatwick

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*Offer subject to availabilty and change. †Calls from UK landlines cost the standard rate, but calls from mobiles may be higher. Check with your network provider.

Sovereign is a member of the Travelopia group of companies. ATOL protected.

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WWW.LUCYANDBELLE.COM

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O F TH E MO NTH

Joshua

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SUZANNE MITCHELL AT LITTLE WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY

�5 A WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY HERE? UPLOAD YOUR FAVOURITE SNAP AT BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK/BABY-OF-THE-MONTH baby-magazine.co.uk | 13

every stage™ fx signature Welcome to a luxurious world of soft, textured, quilted fabrics; aged cognac leatherette touches in all of the most elegant of spaces; and beautifully tailored lines; all exquisitely crafted to make memories of each moment with baby last forever.

A SIMPLY TIMELESS MEGA GROUP SAFETY SYSTEM THAT GROWS FROM INFANT TO INFINITY.

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joiebaby.com/signature Available from Argos, Boots, Halfords, John Lewis, Mamas and Papas, Mothercare and all good independent nursery retailers.

baby

NEWS

NEWS

U PDATING YOU ON ALL THINGS GR E AT AN D SMALL

NATURAL SELECTION

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KEEP U P

Inspired by the Norwegian tradition of protecting nature, the new Caring Collection from Stokke features lovely pieces for little ones of all ages. The line includes nursery accessories and bathing essentials made from organic fabrics, with playful prints inspired by natural surroundings. We love the printed cushions for the Tripp Trapp chair, as well as the embroidered hooded towels for bathtime snuggles. From £22, stokke.com

YM A G A ZI N

APTAMIL’S FOLLOW ON MILK WILL BE REPLACING ITS CURRENT FORMULA AND PACKING DESIGN FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 15 YEARS. THE POWDER FORMULA COMBINES A NEW PROCESS AND UNIQUE BLEND OF INGREDIENTS, WITH ALL THE ESSENTIAL VITAMINS AND MINERALS TO SUPPORT THE MOST IMPORTANT STAGES OF BABY’S GROWTH. £10.99, OCADO.COM

baby-magazine.co.uk | 15

NEWS

IT’S ALL GOOD IN THE HOOD The latest innovation from French brand Je Porte Mon Bébé is unlike anything we’ve seen before. The HoodieCarrier gives the sturdiness and support of a structured carrier, but with the gentle cocooning of a wrap and a sweet little clip-on hood for baby’s head. Available in two stylish shades of grey, there’s three different carrying positions, suitable from newborn to three years old. ¤115, boutique.jeportemonbebe.com

FANCY FEET Cath Kidston has teamed up with American sports brand New Balance for an exclusive shoe collection. The iconic trainer styles have been paired with classic Cath Kidston prints from the archive, resulting in a retro-feel shoe with sizes for both mum and child. There’s even a stylish design for baby, too; the crib shoe features the Woodstock Ditsy print in light pink, in sizes 0-18 months. £32, cathkidston.com

LEADING NANNY AND CHILDCARE AGENCY, HARMONY AT HOME, HAS ARRIVED IN SOMERSET AND BATH WITH A BRAND NEW BRANCH. HEADED UP BY NORLAND NANNY ZOE FEARNLEY, SHE’LL HELP BOTH FAMILIES AND NANNIES IN THE AREA FIND THEIR PERFECT MATCH, VISITING THEM IN THEIR OWN HOMES TO UNDERSTAND THEIR REQUIREMENTS. HARMONYATHOME.CO.UK

MUM’S MUST-HAVES ON YOUR BIKE! Famous for fusing Japanese technology with clean Dutch design, bike brand Urban Iki is launching in the UK. The children’s bike seats are as attractive as they are functional – choose between front and rear chairs, each featuring adjustable footrests and safety buckle, with a shockproof windscreen for the front-facing seat. Suitable from nine months and available in four shades.

From £54.99, tredz.co.uk

16 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Ravishing reads to guide you from pregnancy to motherhood...

Hollie de Cruz’s new book, Your Baby, Your Birth, offers expert advice to help you through labour, with tips on how to approach motherhood with confidence. On sale 30 August. £12.99, Vermilion From the creators of social app Mush comes The Mumsition, a book to support you through the first year of motherhood. Like a smart mum friend, it’s packed with all kinds of useful advice while still being funny and relatable. £12.99, Little Brown

NEWS The Curious Mummy covers everything from family and careers, to style, travel and food

SNUG AS A BUG If you’ve got a little wriggler on your hands, the revolutionary new bedtime invention from The Gro Company will keep them warm and super snug. Made from cosy jacquard, the Groromper is an all-in-one bodysuit to be worn in bed in place of blankets, and features breathable underarms and a reversible zip for easy nappy changes. Available in a pink or blue pinstripe. From £40, gro-store.com

BEST OF THE BLOGS

The internet is awash with information but these brilliant bloggers cut to the chase with honest and practical advice

BY LAURA A born-and-raised Londoner, Laura Rutherford lives in Notting Hill with her husband and two boys, Harry and Stanley. Posts on her blog range from travel to crafts, as well as her Wednesday Wardrobe series, in which she interviews other women about their personal style. Alongside running her own personalised wreath art business, she also enjoys browsing Portobello Market or trudging through Hampstead Heath with her sons in tow. laurarutherford.com

DOING IT FOR THE KIDS Doing It For The Kids helps freelance parents make flexible working easier. Set up by motherof-one Frankie, her aim is to build a community of parents to support, reassure, collaborate with and motivate one another, creating a platform for people to share their stories and advice about choosing a career that works around family life.

The site also includes downloadable resources and a shop with reward charts, stickers and greetings cards. doingitforthekids.net

THE CURIOUS MUMMY

PUSH IT REAL GOOD

The popular Flip XT² pushchair model has had a redesign with new athleisure style. Inspired by trends in the world of fitness, the two new designs feature a variety of textures, coloured mesh and gradient effects. It’s the most compact one-handed folding model from Mamas & Papas, and is compatible with car seats and carrycots, too. Available as a pushchair-only option or as a bundle with rucksack and footmuff. Pushchair from £649, mamasandpapas.com

Mummy to Finley and Olivia, The Curious Mummy is a lifestyle blog run by Donna. She captures moments from their everyday lives; from favourite clothes to major milestones, travel tips to musings on motherhood. Regular features include The Curious Kids Book Club, where she reveals the titles that went down best with her brood, interviews with inspirational business founders in The Curious Mummy Meets, and healthy family recipes. thecuriousmummy.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 17

BABY’S SOCIAL EDIT When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment to s are di in and get o r dail fi @baby_mag_insta @SARAHWINBORNPHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY: PETE HELME

Top tweets @QuartoKids: The newest issue of @BabyMagazineUK features two of our baby books! @Maybeswabey picks her favourite seaside reads for a #sunnyday @PegPeregoUK: Struggling to come up with the perfect name for your baby? Take inspiration from the most popular unisex names, as shared by @BabyMagazineUK @JoCaird: Delighted to be making my @BabyMagazineUK debut in the current issue with a story on booking baby’s first holiday

@BabyMagazineUK @ADENANDANAIS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK @AMYANDIVOR

@babymagazineuk @LEONIEFREEMANPHOTO @CAMCAM_CPH

@NINEINTHEMIRROR

@baby_magazine_uk 18 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Grab your apron with Kids En Cuisine

And...Action!

Mark the final days of summer with an outdoor family film at Luna Kids Cinema. Head to Tatton Park in Cheshire to catch screenings of The Gruffalo, Frozen and Star Wars: The Last Jedi before it shuts up shop for winter.

Final day is 4 September. Tickets from £7.50, lunakidscinema.com

SEPTEMBER 6 GET THE

KNOWLEDGE

One in four women have labour induced, but many are unaware about the benefits or the risks involved. Pick up your copy of midwife and lecturer Dr Rachel Reed’s book Why Induction Matters today to discover the latest research. £7.99, Pinter & Martin

8 SLEEP TIGHT

Today sees the launch of four new Gro to Bed designs from The Gro Company. The unique zip-in duvet is the ideal first bedding set for little ones making the transition from cot to bed, and is suitable from 18 months. Prints include owls, moons, whales and swans.

From £39.99, gro-store.com

dates for your

DIARY

Cotton bed set From £39.99, gro-store.com

Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy this month

14 WHEELING IN 21 BREAST Say hello to the new lightweight Familidoo Air pushchair, launching today with Cheeky Rascals. Easily fold it down into a supercompact size with just one hand – it’s the perfect companion for summer strolls. £150, cheekyrascals.co.uk

15 BY THE SLICE 1 SEPTEMBER

Show Time Start off the month with a CBeebies favourite live on stage. Bing comes to life with plenty of music and puppetry, featuring all the characters from the TV show. Today is your last chance to catch it at G Live in Guildford, before its other performances in Chester, Winchester and Cambridge later in the month. From £21.50, bingliveshow.com

Head to Cuckoo Hibou in Parsons Green from 4pm today for a pizza-making masterclass from Kids En Cuisine. Children aged three and above can learn how to craft their own rainbow pizza using vegetables and watch it cook to perfection in the authentic pizza oven. £15 each, kidsencuisine.com

IS BEST

Professor Amy Brown has a new book out today on breastfeeding. The Positive Breastfeeding Book, is a stepby-step guide for navigating nursing with confidence.

She provided Baby with tips on tackling those tricky first days breastfeeding your little newborn – check out page 85. £14.99, Pinter & Martin

Familidoo Air pushchair £150, cheekyrascals.co.uk

28 BEST OF

THE BUNCH

The Baby and Toddler Show is back for another year at EventCity in Manchester.

Running until Sunday, enjoy huge deals on over 150 top parenting brands and speak with experts for tips and advice. Tickets from £10, babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

30 MUSIC TIME

Rave it up at the Big Fish Little Fish event, held at London nightclub Fabric for the first time. The music is an eclectic mix of jungle, techno and house, with plenty of bubbles, balloons, face-painting and crafts to keep little ones amused. From £8.50, bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 19

More milk for your baby, more time for both of you.

The innovative double pump technology in the Medela Swing Maxi helps you pump more energy packed milk, in less time.

Proud pioneers of breastfeeding innovation since 1965.

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Pump more milk in less time, thanks to our 2-Phase Expression Technology* Journal of Human Lactation 18 (4) 2002 “Effect of Vacuum Profile on Breast Milk Expression Using an Electric Breast Pump.�

*

SHOPPING

LOVE S

The 40-strong line follows on from last year’s womenswear collection which also featured the cartoons

CARTOON KID

The cheeky characters made famous by British comics The Beano and The Dandy have found their way onto the premium rails of designer Stella McCartney. The new season collection, with pieces for newborn to age 14, features unique designs chosen by Stella herself, including Minnie The Minx, Cuddles and Dimples and Korky the Cat. From ÂŁ38, stellamccartney.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 21

SHOPPING Rainbow mobile £26, beyondthestork.co.uk

Little Bird by Jools Oliver top £11.50, mothercare.com

From a selection at adenandanais.co.uk

Cord shorts £39, dottydungarees.com

Cord romper £42, olivierbaby.com

Velvet Incy x Hobbe rocker £899, cottage-toys.co.uk

BLUSHED TONES

From pretty pinks to bursts of berry, this season’s fresh crop of nursery essentials is looking rosy Alpaca wool and cotton blend cardigan £89, aswegrow.is

Stella McCartney Kids babysuit £80, childrensalon.com

Cotton and cashmere romper £57.45, thebonniemob.com

Cotton dress £27, cosstores.com Olli Ella suitcase £59, teaandkate.co.uk

Suede leather clutch £45, jemandbea.com Leather shoes £40, lunaandcurious.com

Djeco wall-hanging tableau £6.40, tickety-boo.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 23

SHOPPING Wild & Wolf light-up globe £99.95, cuckooland.com

Cotton romper £80, caramel-shop.co.uk

Little Bird by Jools Oliver dress £16.50, mothercare.com

Corduroy Miffy £17, scandimini.com From a selection at Organic Zoo £25, thelittlenaturalco.co.uk

Petit Bateau cotton bodysuit £29, selfridges.com

A Little Lovely Company neon light £64, lullabuy.co.uk

SWEET AS HONEY Inject baby’s September wardrobe with a sugar rush of shades, from subtle apricot hues to sharp punches of pineapple

Young Soles shoes £33.60, scandimini.com

Hugo Loves cotton top £26, scandimini.com

Cashmere romper £179, cashmirino.com

Mima Xari pushchair £1,699, cheekyrascals.co.uk

Nobodinoz teepee £153.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Organic cotton romper £20.45, thebonniemob.com

24 | baby-magazine.co.uk

C

am Cam Copenhagen’s core originates from the love of babies and children, and a belief that they only deserve the best.

The strong values of Cam Cam Copenhagen are to create sustainable, functional and high quality products with a focus on Scandinavian and timeless design. All products are organic and free of chemicals and toxins and produced under controlled and safe conditions. Cam Cam Copenhagen is a GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standards) certified company, which is the world’s leading certification standard for organic textiles including both ecological and social criteria. Cam Cam Copenhagen’s purpose is not only to create a beautiful children’s universe, but also to make a positive difference in the world for generations to come.

www.c amc amc o pen h agen .c o m

!

D L I M E B O BORN T

H E RE ’S A W IL D ID E A.

packed fu ll o f ’s at th r se ri tu is o m How abou t a sp ec ially de ve lo ped d an s nt ie ed gr in d nat ur ally de ri ve s an d babi es? to care fo r n ew bo rn ve su itable fo r se n siti en ev ’s it d, il m so O n e th at ’s in . o r ecze m a- pr o n e sk litt le id eas, So if yo u love ou r f th e revolu tio n . jo in th e ch ildr en o ch ilds farm .co M

SHOPPING ‘Balmoral’ pram £1,900, silvercrossbaby.com

Suede Vans £30, alexandalexa.com

From a selection at thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

Sebra crochet pull-along toy £39.99, scandiborn.co.uk

A-line dress £135, caramel-shop.co.uk

LEAFY GREENS

Ubang cotton top £43, childrensalon.com

From soft suede to verdant velour, give baby the green light with a bright and breezy twist

Velour sweatshirt £31, molo.com Chloé dress £148, childrensalon.com

Oeuf NYC cotton vest £66, sistersguild.co.uk Cotton twill romper £51.75, omibia.com

Moses basket set £99, mobauk.com Cotton toy £22, pebblechild.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 27

SHOPPING Life Factory glass bottle £15.99, littlegreenhome.co.uk

Cam Cam Copenhagen rattle £17.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Tana Lawn cotton dress £63, libertylondon.com

Catimini cotton knit cardigan £53, childrensalon.com

Tripp Trapp chair £174, stokke.com From a selection at The White Company £30, thewhitecompany.com

Plush bear £25, steiff.com

PURPLE PARADE

Add a cool and calming touch to baby’s wardrobe with soft pops of periwinkle and subtle violet hues Turn-up shorts £18, boden.co.uk

Pima cotton dress £89, aswegrow.is

Mayoral shoes £15, childrensalon.com

Denim dungarees £22, mamasandpapas.com

Kids Concept wooden truck £35, daisiesanddinosaurs.co.uk Merino and cashmere sweater £74, belleenfant-boutique.com

28 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Molo velour trousers £21.80, neimanmarcus.com

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PRIZE GIVEAWAY

‘Mia’ cot bed £517, mamasandpapas.com

‘Ewan’ the dream sheep soother £29.99, sweetdreamers.co.uk

11-week swimming course £160, waterbabies.co.uk

Sansa swing and rocker £150, joiebaby.com

Leather tote bag £125, ju-ju-be.com Trybike four-in-one £159.99, hippychick.com

Long-sleeve cotton bodysuit (pack of four) £74, babymori.com ‘Twist’ cot bed mattress £179, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

Deluxe+ and ‘Marble’ cover £150, sleepyheadofsweden.com

Frugi gift voucher £100, welovefrugi.com

‘Pebble’ and ‘Pearl’ car seats and ‘FamilyFix’ base £525, maxi-cosi.co.uk

Joolz HUB pushchair plus carrycot £744, my-joolz.co.uk Bundle of maternity and nursing bras £150, bravadodesigns.com

30 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Gift set £150, cheekychompers.com

PRIZE GIVEAWAY Gro Company Bundle – including Grosnug, Grobag, Ollie the Owl, Groegg and Gro Anywhere blinds, £160 gro-store.com

Babycook £120, beaba.com

To celebrate the launch of Baby magazine, we are having a

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baby-magazine.co.uk | 31

INTERVIEW

Beth was delighted to unpack her eldest’s mini swimsuits again after giving birth to another girl TinyCottons swimsuit £52, alexandalexa.com Beth and her daughter wel comed a new addition to th eir family in May

MY ESSENTIALS BETH BENTLEY

You welcomed another little girl four weeks ago. How are you finding it second time round?

I’m more relaxed this time and taking things slowly. Going back to night feeds has been an adjustment – I’d forgotten how often newborns wake up! But returning to the tiny newborn days is a dream come true. We chose not to find out the gender of either of our babies, so it was a lovely surprise to be able to bring out the dresses, bonnets and mini swimming costumes again.

How did you shift from being a brand strategist to setting up Young Gums?

I still am one, but just split my time nowadays, spending less time on trains and planes and more time on video calls. I run the brand strategy function at VICE (global youth media empire) in East London three days a week, and write, cook and study for the rest of the time. I’m on

The founder of infant feeding brand Young Gums talks about family life, busy weekends and cooking up a storm maternity leave right now, but my working life works because I have a brilliant husband, a supportive publisher and a forward-thinking employer, plus half the contents of the Apple store in my handbag.

You’ve just launched your first book. How did this come about?

It happened during my first maternity leave. When my baby

Beth with her newborn daughter

was ready for solid food, I realised how confusing weaning can be for modern parents: the conflicting advice, equipment, schedules, stages and strategies, and the question of what’s actually in the jars and packets of commerciallyproduced baby food. It seemed that things were being made unnecessarily confusing, so I started an Instagram feed charting my experiences and learning how to cook for my baby. I suddenly had thousands of parents trying my recipes, and supportive nutrition experts, child development

Elastic lace Vans £27, vans.co.uk

professionals and academics, and journalists wanting to chat or offer help. I signed the book deal when my baby was 10 months old and staggered my return to work, to allow time to draft the manuscript.

What’s your favourite recipe from the book?

I have a soft-spot for the tagine, as it’s the first proper meal I ever cooked for my baby and it remains a crowd-pleaser in our house. But I think the ones I’m most proud of are the oneingredient ice cream and the homemade teething biscuits.

They’ve become some of my most-shared recipes.

Working on a food book while pregnant, did you have any weird cravings?

For me, it was sadly aversions rather than cravings and I suffered from hyperemesis. But thanks to my hungry, curious toddler I

baby-magazine.co.uk | 33

INTERVIEW

Beth enjoys cuddles on the beach in Spain

Olli Ella basket £45, littlehomes.co.uk

All sorts of fun, creative recipes appear in Beth’s book, from ‘magic’ pizza to raspberry macaroons

Anthelios pocket suncream £10, laroche-posay.co.uk

Instagram and blogging has been huge for Young Gums.

Why do you think you engage with so many new parents?

I think it’s because I’m going through the same experience that they are. I understand the reality of life, juggling work, exhaustion and everything else with weaning a baby, because it’s my life, too.

Parents also often tell me they like the type of food I make and the way it’s presented.

What products would we find in your changing bag?

Kit & Kin nappies; I met the brand’s founder, Emma Bunton, last year, and she told me a standard disposable nappy takes 500 years to biodegrade, whereas Kit & Kin’s take just five. Kokoso coconut oil is my go-to for nappy rash and dry skin. I also love La Roche-Posay suncream, the Tiba

34 | baby-magazine.co.uk

+ Marl changing mat, WaterWipes and my Yoli + Otis soft sling.

Where do you like to shop for the girls?

With my oldest, her first shoes came from Trotters, then we moved onto baby Vans and Birkenstocks, with plain leather Mary-Janes for special occasions.

Barcelona-based TinyCottons is my favourite for statement items like coats and swimwear, and my day-to-day go-to is Arket. I swoon for the rompers and piecrustcollar dresses at Bonpoint, and Little Liberty is fantastic. For the The family love heading down to the sunny shores of Cornwall on their holidays

girls’ bedrooms and toys, we love Olli Ella and Nobodinoz.

What’s a typical weekend like for you?

On Fridays, I make something a bit special for dinner – a Moroccan tagine, Sri Lankan curry or Mexican burrito bowls with heaps of guacamole. We head to Broadway Market on Saturdays, and the afternoon is spent swimming at the outdoor lido. Sunday morning is the flower market at Columbia Road, then home for a BBQ in the garden.

One of the best things about having babies is the huge circle

of like-minded friends you make.

We’ll get a bunch together for lunch most weekends, and the babies test my recipes for me!

Where’s your favourite place to be in the UK with the family?

Cornwall. We’ve spent so many happy summers there and I love to see my babies in the fresh air.

Plus, the food scene is incredible!

With a new book and new baby this summer, what’s next?

We’ve just renovated a campervan, so we’re planning to take off for an extended trip later this year. We’ll pack up the girls and chase the sun down through France and Portugal, cooking, surfing and mapreading. We’re all so excited!

Young Gums: Baby Food with Attitude by Beth Bentley (£14.99, Ebury Press) is out now

INTERVIEW: REBECCA MOORE. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/YOUNG_GUMS; ISTOCK; HAARALA HAMILTON

cooked my way through it and managed to write some pretty ingenious recipes during that time.

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LIFESIZE

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A WHISPER FROM GREY

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Delicately mindful, this gentle story introduces colours through

a story about a quiet and shy little bird while teaching kids to shine and be proud no matter what. £7.99, Egmont

stylish and fun read, this treasure of a book is sure to be enjoyed time and time again. £5.99, Templar Publishing

INTO THE OCEAN

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Enjoy a game of hide-and-seek and meet the inhabitants of this underwater world as a lulling, rhyming text leads you gently through layers of the sea. £9.99, Quarto Publishing Group UK

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SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: IN THE PARK

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The perfect choice for summer reading in the park, this charming spot-the-difference book will provide hours of entertainment for you and your child. £6.99, Lincoln Children’s Books

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By Ingela Peterson Arrhenius Will you be able to find Mr Dog amongst the other pets?

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baby-magazine.co.uk | 37

PROFILE

GET THE LOOK

Cotton and beech wood teepee £72, uk.funwithmum.com

Cotton cushion ¤26.50, camcamcopenhagen.com

Coffee dot baby gift set £39.99, cuddledry.com

INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION

@SALLYFAZELI

The home renovator and mother of sons Remy, one, and Hugo, three, talks online blogging and motherhood Why did you start blogging?

I started blogging in 2013, mainly because I was often being asked on Instagram where different outfits were from. Since then it’s become an outlet where I can share aspects of my life, from fun memories to fashion finds. I’m so glad I took the plunge to do it!

Who do you like to follow on Instagram?

I met three of my best friends on this platform: Jules (@thisisjules), Claire (@thislittlehouse_), and Lauren (@huntersandheels) and I check their profiles daily for updates. I’ve also met with Masha (@masha_theone) a few times and her imagery gives me great inspiration.

What do you love about the platform?

I find the community really supportive – it’s a place where I can share the highs and lows of parenthood

and life in general. I feel like someone is always behind me on Insta and I’ve made many real-life friends there.

Where do you take the boys on a sunny day?

There’s a place called Lytham St Anne’s in the North West and it has the most amazing ice cream, beach, park, little train and trampolines. The kids and I love it!

And if it’s raining?

We head to an indoor play centre or have fun at home.

What tips do you have for decorating a nursery?

Create a mood board! I’m a bit old-school and use PowerPoint because you can easily crop photos with it. Take screenshots of everything you like and put the pictures on one page – you’ll soon see how the palette starts to come together and this will help you to recognise what will work well in the space.

Kidsmill crib £339, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Cotton blanket £140, hammamandhome.co.uk

Jupiduu slide £214.95, scandiborn.co.uk 38 | baby-magazine.co.uk

happy tums. happy mums.

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Summer nights PHOTOGR APHY: H ELEN MAR SDEN ST YLING: Y VADNEY DAVIS

Amina wears cotton romper, £40, What Mother Made at Luna & Curious. Leather shoes, ¤36, Easy Peasy. Rug, £20, Ikea.

Cushions, from £23, Caramel.

Christopher wears shirt, ¤55, Ketiketa. Cotton shorts with braces, £65, Cashmirino. Mat, £2.25, Ikea. Silk gauze quilt, £95, Caramel.

Navy-Grace wears cotton bodysuit, £28, Pepa & Co. Cotton bloomers, £40, Pepa & Co. Cotton gauze blanket, £42, Numero 74 at Smallable.

Amin wears knitted cotton romper, ÂŁ58, Pepa & Co.

Christopher wears cotton shirt, £66, Cashmirino. Cotton-blend shorts with braces, £42, Pepa & Co. Quilt, £95, Caramel.

Amin wears cotton shirt, ¤57, Louis Louise. Cotton trousers, ¤79, Little Creative Factory. Leather sandals, £19.99, Zara.

Ariana wears cotton romper, ÂŁ65, Caramel.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: AMIN, AMINA, ARIANA, CHRISTOPHER, ELECTRA, IZZIE, JAYDEN, NAVY-GRACE. MODEL AGENCIES: BONNIE & BETTY, GRACE & GALOR, KIDS LONDON, URBAN ANGELS.

Amina wears cotton top and knickers outfit, from £16, Marks & Spencer. Leather shoes, £46, Young Soles.

RUNNING HEAD Sequin cushion £40, monsoon.co.uk

Jayden wears cotton top, £19, Carrément Beau at House of Fraser. Cotton trousers, ¤65, Ketiketa. Izzie wears cotton blouse, ¤49, Emile et Ida. Cotton trousers, ¤69, Animals Observatory. Cushion, £45, Caramel. Silk gauze quilt, £95, Caramel. Mat, £2.25, Ikea.

Rug, £20, Ikea.

Textured dungarees £15.99, mango.com

Cotton romper £9.99, lindex.com

Cotton shirt £12, johnlewis.com

SHOP THE SHOOT Choose gingham prints with stripes and sequins for a vibrant twist on baby’s autumn wardrobe

Pleated cotton blanket £69.99, zarahome.com

Cotton bodysuit £14, marksandspencer.com

Cotton tank top £5.99, lindex.com

Cotton shorts £5.50, hemashop.com

Jersey bodysuit £28, marksandspencer.com

Pom pom cushion £12, next.co.uk

48 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Dungarees bodysuit set £14, next.co.uk

Anchor print joggers £9, johnlewis.com

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BABY TALK

I

can’t tell you how excited I am to be writing this new monthly column. I started writing in Baby magazine’s sister title, Little London, when my daughter was small, with a regular Get Crafty spot. Now that I’ve gone back to nappies with my latest addition, I’m going to be sharing news from my own baby bubble and revealing some of the cool products I’ve been testing. That’s the greatest thing about the baby world, there are literally so many amazing products coming to market, purely to help new parents on their way. This month is all about weaning for us, as the little man is really into his food – and finally some teeth have started showing. I really hope you enjoy my selections!

Baby Cübes (pack of 20) £4.99, ocado.com These organic purées come in nifty little ice cubes and have been coming in very handy!

I’ve also been whizzing the fruit ones up with avocado, banana and milk to make the most delicious smoothies for the whole family!

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

Leo’s

WHERE TO GO

One of my favorite places to take my little one when the sun is shining has to be Chelsea Physic Garden.

Tucked away behind the Thames, you would miss the door if you weren’t looking.

Inside it’s home to thousands of plants and is one of the most peaceful places in London. Whether you have a babe in a pram or a toddler, it’s an absolute joy to visit.

The café also serves a mean cup of tea and slice of cake! chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

LITTLE LUXURIES OU R N EW COLUM NIST Leonora Bamford SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE THINGS THIS MONTH

Nurture: Notes and recipes from Daylesford Farm £35, daylesford.com I love a great recipe and I have been reading my mother-in-law’s book, Nurture, cover to cover, which is all about how and why she decided to go organic over 40 years ago.

Bamboo set, £14.99, bamboobamboo.co I’m completely crazy about this brand Bamboo Bamboo. The natural, non-toxic plates and bowls have a fun coloured suction base so little hands can’t pull them off the table and I love the matching spoons.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 51

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STYLE

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NEWS NAIL TH E ART OF ST YLING YOU R BUM P WITH TH E SE CHIC FIN DS

MAMA STYLE

The latest range from GeBe has got us looking forward to a brand new season of cosy clothing. The stylish, trend-led pieces have been carefully crafted to accommodate burgeoning bumps, whether you’re dressing for an event, a weekend in the country or for comfort. Highlights from the collection include the white lace Dreamy Dress and the Marilyn Jumpsuit in grey check. gebematernity.com

Stay cool in summer heatwaves with this trendy off-the-shoulder dress

THAT’S A WRAP

A DRESS TO IMPRESS

Perfect for pregnancy and beyond, the kimono has many uses. Wear it over pyjamas, style it up as a jacket when out and about or throw it over a bikini on the beach. We love the styles from ethical loungewear label Verry Kerry – each one is made from organic cotton or bamboo and flatters with eye-catching prints. From £55, verrykerry.com

CARRIED AWAY The changing bags in Ju-Ju-Be’s latest range offer a departure from the company’s traditionally busy designs. The Ever Collection features tote bags, backpacks and weekenders made from vegan leather, all available in go-with-everything black, tan and dove grey tones. Each has a memory foam changing pad too. From £125, europe.ju-ju-be.com

Celebrate your newfound shape with the beautiful occasion dresses from Tiffany Rose. The new season line features full-length and shorter gowns in sumptuous fabrics and rich tones, using plenty of lace, flattering waist ties and unique prints. Plus, many feature a hidden nursing panel. From £119, tiffanyrose.com

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STYLE

SPORTY CHIC

September often feels like the start of the year, whether you’re in back-to-school COMPILED BY: CAMILLA RIDLEY-DAY

Hunter vinyl rain jacket £155, lyst.com

Ultra-soft stretch jersey £45, seraphine.com

Hollywood actress Claire Danes takes her small bump for a stroll in vibrant leggings S’well Graphite water bottle £35, amara.com

Nursing sports bra £17.99, hm.com

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE AT THE GYM TO ENJOY THESE ATHLEISUREWEAR PIECES – SUPER SOFT SUPPORTIVE FABRICS ARE JUST THE THING FOR A GROWING BUMP

Maternity leggings £100, leoandi.com

Cotton clutch £28, scampanddude.com

‘Capri’ leggings £20, next.co.uk

Cotton T-shirt £18, topshop.com

Adidas Originals suede trainers £100, net-a-porter.com

Cotton T-shirt £25, selfishmother.com

Garmin Sports watch £169.99, johnlewis.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 55

STYLE

Elwood backpack £130, tibaandmarl.com Stella McCartney for Adidas mesh top £45, harveynichols.com

Ultra-light down jacket £49.90, uniqlo.com

Cotton sweatshirt £55, boden.com

POST BABY, CHOOSE FLATTERING NEUTRALS FOR YOUR TOP HALF AND TEAM IT WITH PRINTS AND COLOUR. FROM BUGGIES TO GYM BAGS, THERE’S NO REASON WHY WORKING OUT CAN’T STILL BE DONE WITH BABY IN TOW!

Wool jumper £125, hush-uk.com Kylie Jenner rocks a loosefitting shirt ith shorts

The Upside leggings £99, mytheresa.com Cotton elastane jersey £69, meandem.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: SPLASH NEWS

Supersoft joggers £25, marksandspencer.com

Leather tie bracelet £45, pandora.net

Rebecca Taylor La Vie tshirt £85, trilogystores.co.uk Puma sneakers £125, farfetch.com Out ‘N’ About pushchair £248, johnlewis.com 56 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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BABY TALK

“

id you pack the BluTak?” I wailed at my husband from the spare room. “Er, no…?” he replied. “I’ll get it, then,” I huffed back, and with my laptop perched on the bed and a Google spreadsheet as my guide, I sifted through my four (yep, four) hospital bags; one filled with baby stuff, one for the birth, one for a potential hospital stay and one for snacks (Lucozade, dried strawberries and, because pregnancy cravings die hard, a multi-pack of Kinder Buenos).

Preparation, I reasoned, was the key to success. It was careful forensic planning that had anchored me through 10 years as a beauty director at deadlineheavy weekly magazines. It was precision planning – and many a spreadsheet – that saw my husband and I save for a deposit, get married and buy a house within the same year. Mapping out how to do stuff, before you do it, is what I know.

So, paralysed by the knowledge that I had no knowledge, three months before my due date, I buckled down and took on ‘Project Birth’. I read books, booked an NCT course, organised hypnobirthing classes and dragged my puffy

THE GOOD STUFF

D

The ultimate antidote for the paranoia that loomed over the first few days at home with Noah.

Plus, it kicks out just enough light for night feeds without having to reach for the lamp. Gro-Egg 2 Baby Thermometer and Night Light, £29.99, johnlewis.com

DIARY OF A MUM part 1

Now we’re bathing Noah every other day, a capful of this cucumber and lavender-infused wash gently soothes, while Babassu oil provides anti-fungal, anti-viral protection.

CWTCH Nos Da Baby Bath & Gentle Milk Wash, £43, cwtchskincare.co

If there is such a thing as a grownup baby bag, this is it. Big enough to fit umpteen baby bottles, but compact enough to sit neatly under pram handles. Nylon holdall, £140, tibaandmarl.com

IN H ER FIR ST COLUM N , Joanna McGarry TALKS L ABOU R , LUCOZ ADE AN D LIFE LE SSON S legs to pregnancy classes at Triyoga. And, after extensive research, I concluded a natural, hypnobirthing-led experience at the birth centre was the route I wanted to take. There wasn’t a doubt in my mind that this would be how things worked out for us.

The Blu-Tak? For pinning an A1 poster of the Peruvian rainforest I’d ordered from Amazon (a visualisation aid to help anchor the hypnobirthing meditations I’d been practising) to the walls. I’d also packed a Tens machine, a fan, a water-spray bottle, batteryoperated candles, an oil diffuser, compression socks, nipple pads, affirmation cards, and a yoga mat (to cushion my knees). I took my birth plan pretty seriously.

And yet, it wasn’t to be.

Reduced fetal movement, a ‘large baby’ and being three days past my due date led me down a rabbit hole of induction, 12 hours of contractions, 12 hours of

epidural-bolstered contractions, and steady dilation.

Then, things started to slow.

I had a raised heart rate, a high temperature and the final crux – my cervix had started to swell and close. The doctors told me I had become infected with maternal sepsis, and the safest option would be to go to theatre for a c-section delivery immediately.

Our baby – a daughter – was ushered into the world 20 minutes later, only to be taken a nearby table to be checked over while I cried so hard I could barely see. But, in its own way, it was perfect. Because out of that room came Noah Leonor Ellner, and she

is perfect. And the experience, though I’m still making sense of it all, taught me the first rule of motherhood: there are no rules.

It is an ever-unfurling ribbon; unpredictable, messy, joyous, traumatic and gut-wrenching. No spreadsheet or overly-stuffed baby bag could have prepared us for birth or the four-day hospital stay that followed.

Birth – for many of us – is beyond our control, and that’s a humbling thing. It’s taught me to be more elastic, and I was naïve to think I held all the jigsaw pieces, As a mother, I’m starting to see that all I can do is try to put them together, one by one.

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INTERVIEW

A new batch…

Benedict Cumberbatch IS KN OWN TO TU R N HIS HAN D TO A VARIE T Y OF CHAR AC TER S, BUT H OW IS H E FIN DING HIS OVER ARCHING ROLE AS FATH ER TO T WO SON S, CH RISTOPH ER AN D HAL? SIMON E LEE FIN DS OUT MOR E

Benedict with wife Sophie Hunter, sporting her second bump

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RUNNING HEAD

ost dads have big plans for their children and dream about all the ways they will support and influence them in the future, from coaching a football team and building a treehouse to cooking breakfast in the morning and reminding them how cherished they are. But when you’re one of Hollywood’s finest film stars, the goals can be a little more unusual.

For instance, when Benedict Cumberbatch appeared on Good Morning Britain in March last year, not long after it was announced that he and wife Sophie Hunter were expecting their second child, he revealed to the show’s presenter Richard Arnold: “I want them to know what I do for a living, but I can’t always reveal much because of the certifications of my films – it has to remain a mystery really.”

“We’ll all be a lot older by the time they get to see them, so with that in mind, I would definitely like to do some more child-friendly work in the future,” he continued.

Now a proud dad to three-year-old Christopher and one-year-old Hal, it would seem that the handsome Londoner, 42 in July, has been making good on his intentions, and later this year he will voice the villainous tiger Shere Khan in Andy Serkis’s live action film Mowgli. Beyond that, fans can also see him lend his vocal talents to festive fiend the Grinch this Christmas, when a new 3D adaptation of Dr Seuss’s work will be released.

The actor is certainly skilled at playing oddballs. In fact, the smart and savvy Cumberbatch simply can’t stop landing roles as loveable misanthropes. Having won a legion of fans as Britain’s most beloved detective in the BBC’s Sherlock, he’s continued to wow critics with his performance as a dark and damaged aristocrat in the titular role of new drama Patrick Melrose. And let’s not even mention his starriest (and most lucrative) work yet as Marvel’s Doctor Strange.

In short, Cumberbatch is thriving both personally and professionally, and as a result is keen to dispel one particular myth regarding the arrival of little ones: “Having children has taken nothing away from my life, it has only added to it,” he says. “When you’re expecting, everyone tells you how it’s going to affect your life and how your career is going to suffer as a result. It does affect everything but only for the better. I know I’m in a very privileged position in my career. But I think for anyone,

M

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INTERVIEW

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES/DAVID LIVINGSTON; ©HARTSWOOD FILMS/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK/ROBERT VIGLASKY; REX/SHUTTERSTOCK/TOM NICHOLSON; INTERVIEW HUB; SPLASHNEWS.COM; SHUTTERSTOCK

Benedict and Sophie dressed to impress at the premiere of engers nfinit ar

no matter what’s happening, if you’re in a challenging part of your life, you’ll find you draw strength from your children.”

Either way it is undeniable that parenthood causes a profound shift in a person’s life.

Anyone who has suddenly found themselves the guardian of a precious newborn knows how it can alter one’s habits and perceptions.

New parents are inclined to become less blasé about certain things, and experience an increase in their instinct to protect. It’s also common to feel suddenly moved by things which perhaps wouldn’t have caused much of an impact in the past. As an actor, this can enhance your ability to connect emotionally to characters, as Cumberbatch discovered when he was tasked with playing a father whose daughter disappears in the BBC One adaptation of Ian McEwan’s award-winning novel The Child in Time.

“When you’re dealing with the loss of a child it’s distressing, I won’t lie,” he told Weekend magazine.

“It was an unpleasant place to go to. By circumstance it happened that my second boy had been born weeks before, but it’s not a prerequisite for this role to be a father.

If you were a childless actor trying to imagine it, you’d have to be made of stone not to feel the enormity of what that must be like... how trying to make sense of a life with an ever-present absence is a horrible thing to contemplate.”

As possibly one of the most intellectual stars on the celebrity circuit, it is not surprising to learn that Cumberbatch has given great thought into how fatherhood will – and does – alter his experience as a performer, and how it has changed the relationship he has with his own parents, Timothy Carlton and Wanda Ventham, who are also actors. “I was really intrigued by the idea of playing Hamlet as an only child, because the character has an obsession with his parents. As a new parent, I don’t have that,” he explains.

“But what I have really taken through this process is a sense of empathy. For years I have assumed my parents to be one thing,

HAVING CHILDREN HAS TAKEN NOTHING AWAY FROM MY LIFE, IT HAS ONLY ADDED TO IT but when you have children yourself your perception of them changes, as does the things they have done over the years.”

He continues: “You interpret events and actions differently, and take a much deeper understanding of what it is they did for you and went through for you. It’s a lovely thing.”

For celebrity parents, there is also the added intrusion of the press to consider. And for a man who has always been an enthusiastic actor but reluctant star, the balance hasn’t always been easy to maintain. However, Cumberbatch and Hunter have been firm regarding the privacy of their sons, with no pictures ever being released, and a request

in place with the UK press that all pap shots featuring the children have the faces blurred.

“You get on with it,” he says, “you just get on with it. That’s the only way I can cope with it.

I’m loving the work I do so I have to deal with the consequences, and I think I’m dealing with them as best as I can.”

But for all of Cumberbatch’s protestations, there is also of course one huge benefit of playing Doctor Strange, a character in the most popular superhero franchise of our time – that surely it will win him some dad points down the line? “Well it’s a little early to tell but yes perhaps in the future – we’ll see,” replies Cumberbatch. “We’ll see.”

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Discover blissful baby & toddler friendly holidays Everything that parents need for stress free getaways in luxury villas and resorts All private pools barriered

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At just 2.6kg, Nuna’s latest product, the PIPA Lite Lx, is the lightest infant carrier on the market and its cosy merino wool and Tencel lining makes it super snug for baby. It pairs with all Nuna pushchairs, comes with the PIPAFIX base as standard and can be fitted into your car in seconds. £250, nuna.eu/uk

tot gear

NEWS COOL AN D CLEVER BABY KIT FOR N EW FAMILY LIFE

Parents can now choose between a parent-facing or forward-facing set-up at just the push of a button, thanks to the launch of Cybex’s Eezy S Twist. Meeting the hand-luggage criteria for most airlines, this travel system stroller is perfect for navigating narrow streets on holiday and carving through crowds at airports. £270, cybex-online.com

PRETTY IN PRINT

CARRIED AWAY

After an impressive first collaboration last spring, Mr. Wonderful and Spanish brand Fun*das BCN are back together for a second time. The exclusive collection includes 29 covers in adorable prints for a selection of essential baby products, as well as a mix of delightfully soft and charming accessories for baby’s nursery. From ¤14.75, fundasbcn.com

Off on your travels? Baby Elegance has launched the perfect product! The Kangu Crib is a light and foldable cot that makes travelling with a newborn much easier. Suitable to use from birth to approximately six months old, this stand-alone cot offers an alternative choice to the traditional moses basket and is ready to go on all your adventures with you. £119, babyelegance.co.uk

MUTSY’S NEWEST PUSHCHAIR, NIO, IS ALL ABOUT ADVENTURE. WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT FRAME, AN EXTENDED CANOPY, A FULLY ADJUSTABLE FOOTREST AND THE FLATTEST RECLINE SO FAR, GETTING LITTLE ONE TO SLEEP WHILE YOU’RE ON THE MOVE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER. FROM £689, MUTSY.COM

baby-magazine.co.uk | 67

REVIEW

THE REVIEW Kate Freud AN D BABY WILLOW PUT TH E N EW BUGABOO FOX TH ROUGH ITS PACE S

T

hough the Bugaboo brand needs no introduction, the new Bugaboo Fox deserves a fanfare all of its own.

Combining the best design features of the dependable Cameleon and the lightweight Bee, but sporting a few brilliant new innovations too, it’s safe to say Willow and I couldn’t wait to give it a try.

THE LOWDOWN The Bugaboo Fox is billed as the company’s best all-terrain buggy and is suitable from birth to 17kg. With its large wheel base and solid suspension it handled both smooth and rough ground, navigating shops and buses with ease.

Though it looks big, it folds down to almost nothing. The press-and-pull mechanism makes it easy to put up and down and it fitted easily into the boot of our car. Like all Bugaboos, it was compatible with my Maxi-Cosi car seat.

Taking W illow out fo ra

spin!

ATTRACTIVE? The Fox has received more compliments than any pushchair I have used before. You can make it totally your own, customising the fabric colours, handlebar grips, wheel caps and even the chassis. And as the main range of Bugaboo Fox fabrics are recycled from plastic bottles, there’s something for eco-friendly parents to get especially excited about. We opted for the gender-neutral grey melange hood, bassinet and seat. The waterproof extendable shade looked swish and offered UPF 50+ protection – handy for the heatwave.

The sun and rain shade keeps baby dry and shaded

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVING When I first started using the Fox, I felt utterly relieved that, despite its size, it was easy to manoeuvre. It feels lightweight, and with its big front wheels it really can tackle anything.

I bought the Cameleon when I had my son Jago six years ago and for me the only downside was that the basket underneath was way too small. But this defect is now a thing of the past – the Fox’s vast mesh basket and hidden pockets provide ample storage – and because the bassinet and seat sit so much higher, your belongings are much more accessible and your baby can sit at table height in a restaurant. The Fox’s footbrake is easy to use, even in flip flops, and the handle extends to accommodate taller users.

COMFORT Little Willow was snug and well protected in the bassinet and the variable recline positions look like they will prove comfortable and

he larger air filled ront heels e i the o to handle ore s r aces and le els

useful when the time comes. I occasionally swapped the bassinet for the seat so my three-year-old Georgia could use the pushchair, and this was the only tricky and time-consuming part of using the Fox.

THE VERDICT I can honestly say the Bugaboo Fox is a joy to use. It glides seamlessly from pavement to park, both the bassinet and seat are extremely comfortable for both baby and toddler, and it works brilliantly with my dayto-day life. It’s a good-looking ride, and with all fabric parts removable and washable at 30 degrees, I’m sure it will continue to look swanky for years to come.

From £979, bugaboo.com

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1

PARTIES Thoughtful gifts can transform into keepsakes for years to come

ON THE DAY

PARTIES

Set the scene with these showstoppers

with Carole Middleton

2 Emilia Wickstead dress £1,380, nineinthemirror.com

3

4

Gender reveal party cannon £4.49 each, partypieces.co.uk

Make this wonderful occasion an afternoon to remember with plenty of personalised details

A

s you wait the arrival of your little one, a baby shower is a great opportunity to get together with your closest friends and family, share advice and revel in all things miniature! Start by picking a theme or colour scheme, as this will help guide your décor choices.

Whether you are hosting indoors or outdoors, set the scene with beautiful floral tablecentres. Want to stick with either pink or blue? Some of my favourite pink blooms include lisianthus, ranunculus and roses, while posies of hydrangea, sweetpeas, delphiniums or forget-me-nots work for a blue palette.

Confetti balloons (pack of three) £9.99, partypieces.co.uk

5

BABY SHOWERS

Get your guests involved in some fun games! Ask them to write their own pearls of wisdom or baby name ideas and drop them into a box. Or why not hand out the fabric pens and get them to decorate their own babygrows!

Keep the nibbles easy by sticking to pre-prepared canapés and finger foods and arranging them buffet-style. Or, for a fun twist on a sweet buffet, how about a retro-themed ‘Ready to Pop!’ popcorn station, complete with toppings.

Frame guest book £19.99, partypieces.co.uk

Finally, the bubbly may be flowing for your guests – but don’t forget yourself! There are some fabulous nonalcoholic alternatives to champagne at the moment, simply pair with sparkling water or juice.

Eisberg alcohol-free sparkling Blanc £3.99, waitrosecellar.com

1. Peter Rabbit baby dinner set £14, paperchase.co.uk 2. Muslin squares £19.95, adenandanais.co.uk 3. Cotton babygrow £68, mariechantal.co.uk 4. Mum and baby bundle £54.99, kitandkin.com 5. Beatrix Potter keepsake box £255, elizabethyoungdesigns.co.uk

Party advice cards (pack of ten) £4.99, partypieces.co.uk

Baby shower cupcakes From £22, rachaelskitchen.com

Non-alcoholic spirit baby-magazine.co.uk | 71 £27.99, seedlipdrinks.com

PROFILE

As the UK’s largest independent children’s furniture retailer expect to fall in love with gorgeous brands such as Boori

Take a test drive in the showroom with a vast range of pushchairs on display

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PROFILE

BEHIND THE BRAND

Adorable Tots

WH EN IT COM E S TO THOSE BIG-TICKE T ITEMS, PAR ENTS WANT R E ASSU R AN CE. STARTING BUSIN E SS FROM TH EIR SPAR E ROOM , Victoria and Conrad Parrot t HAVE BUILT U P ON E OF TH E MOST E XCLUSIVE N U R SERY R E TAILER S IN TH E COU NTRY, MARTHA ALE X AN DER FIN DS OUT MOR E

baby-magazine.co.uk | 73

PROFILE

oused in a gorgeous old mill in Rochdale, with whitewashed exteriors and pale blue accents is Adorable Tots, the UK’s largest independent children’s furniture retailer, a description which would usually call to mind impersonal vast warehouse-style shop floors.

This is a family affair; Adorable Tots is run by Victoria and Conrad Parrott, along with their son Thomas.

It’s hard to believe that this space, set over two floors and boasting row upon row of prams and pushchairs, over 30 full nursery settings and an abundance of cuddly toys was once as cotton mill, built in 1874, and then later a snooker club (owned by comedian Bernard Manning).

Like most great business ideas, Adorable Tots was born out of necessity.

“We were looking for baby products in anticipation of a new arrival and were disappointed with the lack of choice, especially since we had a reasonable disposable income and wanted something a little special,” explains Victoria. “I saw a gap in the market for unique baby furniture and furnishings.”

Adorable Tots started as an online-only store back in 2007, run from the Parrott’s spare bedroom, before opening a showroom in a former Manchester cotton mill and eventually upscaling to the current location in Rochdale.

What initially was a shop which focused solely on furniture soon began to incorporate much, much more. Adorable Tots displays 50 pushchairs and travel systems – top of the range brand, akin to cars rather than strollers – car seats and highchairs as well as themed rooms. There is also a wide range of beautiful soft toys and gifts.

“We truly are a one-stop shop for parents, our range is second to none in the UK,” says Victoria proudly.

Looking around, things you didn’t even know you wanted, you will now need. Like a Theophile & Patachou dummy bag.

Or a rustic crown canopy for over a little bed.

The bedroom furniture is so luxurious.

The children’s bedroom ranges are entire worlds of play: with racing car themes or romantic styles. Not only does Adorable Tots offer top-of-the-range furniture and accessories for babies, but it also bespoke services for more discerning parents.

You can arrange a private appointment with a personal shopper, or even organise a home visit, where experts come to your house and advise on how best to

H

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equip your nursery. The interior design service includes the likes of mural paintings and personalised furniture design and build.

“I love designing nurseries and children’s rooms,” says Victoria. “There is something very magical about it, and I love parents and children’s reactions as they see their dream rooms materialise. We have some amazing products and to be able to pull them together for parents and create magical spaces is just amazing. Some rooms can be very challenging, give me 90 degree walls and windows any day!”

Adorable Tots are also experts in creating themed rooms for children that are both exciting and educational but with a beautiful, luxurious finish.

“My favourite is the pirate ship room which has a sensory light ceiling replicating the solar system,” says Victoria. “You can even find The Plough, Sagittarius and Orion’s Belt hiding up there. There is also laser show on the walls and a dropped ceiling with Halo effect mood lighting to boot!”

Their sense of commitment to Adorable Tots is evident: they have tried and tested every product they sell, meaning that quality is assured.

And it needs to be. Adorable Tots have plenty of high profile clients from all over the world, including many premiership footballers.

“In fact over 10 of our clients are playing in this 2018 Russian World cup,” says Victoria. “In one match England played recently there were 11 players on the pitch that were our clients. They are mainly from Manchester United and Manchester City for obvious geographical reasons, but we have players from Liverpool, Everton, Chelsea, Burnley, Bournemouth, Huddersfield town and Leicester city who have all bought their nursery items from us.”

Thanks to their knowledge of the industry, the Parrotts are aware of trends – often travelling all over the world to research new products.

Is there such a thing as trends in nursery styling? The Parrotts believe there is, although concede that the traditional trio of matching cot, dresser and changing table still stands.

“Oh, and grey!” says Victoria. “It’s everywhere. On the furniture, wall textures and bedding. It might once have been considered a drab colour, but not anymore. Embroidery is also very popular at the moment.”

But of course, the best part of running a shop like Adorable Tots is meeting the babies.

“When our clients return to show us their little treasures, it feels like we have become part of and shared in the pregnancy journey,” says Victoria.

Hu sband-and-wi fe duo Conrad an Victoria Parrot d t set up Adorable Tots in 20 09

PROFILE

ULTIMATE WISH LIST Cybex Sirona car seat, £375

Kidsmill toy box, £229 he tea find the er best brands ro across the globe s ch as ool ro sterda

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Theophile & Patachou cushion, £92

Joolz HUB pushchair, £549

baby-magazine.co.uk | 75

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HEALTH

MAKING A SPLASH

Make bathtime the best time of day with the new Cheeky Rascals Bath Support.

Suctioned to the base of the tub to avoid slipping, the device gently cradles baby’s body at the right height, allowing legs and arms to move around freely – great if your little one loves to splash around!

The product also keeps baby extra safe by identifying a maximum water line for parents to stick to. £19.99, cheekyrascals.co.uk

health bea t

NEWS

TH E L ATE ST PRODUC TS AN D IN N OVATION S IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Exposure to hard water has been linked to an increased risk of developing eczema at three months old. But the pioneering shower filter s ste ro itaclean eli inates up to 98 per cent of the chlorine in hard water, optimises water pressure and gives the skin a burst of vitamin C too.

Scented filters from £12, vitacleanhq.com

NEW ARRIVAL

SIMPLY THE BREAST

If you find yourself perusing the aisles of Boots any time soon, watch out for new children’s skincare brand Harry & Rose. The British baby brand is now available in selected stores nationwide, launching with its Baby Bonding Gift Set that includes a body lotion, hair and body wash and bamboo wash mitt. £18.99, boots.com

Medela has launched a brand new e-book for mums to support and guide them through every aspect of breastfeeding. The Amazing Science of Mother’s Milk, which can be downloaded for free on any device, is packed with advice and information about the science behind breast milk.

Free, ebooks.medela.com

ACCORDING TO RESEARCH CONDUCTED BY SLEEP BRAND SIMBA TO MARK THE LAUNCH OF ITS NEW COT BED MATTRESS, NEW PARENTS GET ON AVERAGE JUST FOUR HOURS AND 44 MINUTES OF SLEEP PER NIGHT DURING BABY’S FIRST YEAR. THEY’LL ALSO TREK ABOUT 730 MILES HOPING THEY’LL DROP OFF. SIMBASLEEP.COM

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RUNNING HEAD

r the tter ose to strengthen o r bac and abdo en scles

Butterfly pose

And breathe… egular yoga practice during your pregnancy and after birth is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your baby. Pregnancy yoga is suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced practitioners, and offers a wealth of benefits for your mind, body and spirit.

It is generally advised not to practise yoga during your first trimester. However, you can start in your second trimester and continue until the day your baby is born.

R

78 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Before your baby arrives, by practising yoga you’ll notice an increase in your energy and vitality, which will improve the quality of your sleep, quieten your mind and reduce anxiety.

You’ll also increase your fitness levels and wellbeing, while strengthening your body and mind in preparation for birth and motherhood.

Following the birth, spend the first six weeks resting and bonding with your baby. Listen to when your body feels ready to restart your yoga practice and consult your GP if necessary.

Practising yoga together gives your baby a foundation of peace and wellbeing, and the high level of attention helps them to feel settled. While you’re strengthening and toning your body, you’re also releasing physical and mental tension, which will improve your posture. Yoga is also the perfect chance to slow down, deepening the communication you have with your baby. primrosehillyoga.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: VANESSA BERBERIAN

Kiki Morriss, YOGA TE ACH ER AN D M EDICAL DOC TOR , TALKS US TH ROUGH TH E BEN EFITS OF BEN DING AN D STR E TCHING BEFOR E AN D AF TER BABY

WELLBEING

TRY AT HOME, BABY AND BUMP OPTIONAL...

If you’re up for trying yoga with baby, be mindful that your little one may be unsettled and not in the mood, so try to focus on your breathing rather than on your frustration.

When baby is yoga-ready, gaze into their eyes, smile and sing songs to them as you hold the poses. Place your baby underneath you during downward dog and cat, or in the other poses, they can lie in front of you. Immerse yourself in every moment of this precious time!

1

BUTTERFLY

Sit with your back straight and lean against a wall if you need support. Place the soles of your feet together, hold your feet and gently lower your knees towards the floor.

Breathe slowly and deeply 10 times.

Butterfly stretches the groin and inner thighs and strengthens the back and abdomen.

It also grounds and reassures while relieving anxiety and tiredness.

3

CAT

Kneel on all fours. Breathe in, lift your face and chest, hollow your back, press your tummy button towards the ground, tilt your pelvis back.

Breathe out, lower your head, arch your back, lift your tummy button towards your spine, tilt your pelvis forwards and tuck your tailbone under. Repeat 7-8 times.

Cat develops and maintains flexibility of spine, relieves tension in the lower back and calms the mind.

2

COW

Sit, kneel or stand. Reach your right arm up alongside your head and bring your right hand down to your upper back with your palm facing inwards.

Bend your left elbow and bring your left hand behind your back from below with your palm facing outwards. Bring the fingertips of both your hands together and interlock your fingers if possible. If your fingers don’t meet, hold a folded scarf in your right hand, let it hang down your back and take the loose end in your left hand. Breathe 5 times, then repeat on the other side.

Cow opens the chest and stretches the arms and spine, creating space in the body as the baby grows and, postnatally, it helps relieve tension in the shoulders and upper back.

Cow pose

5

Cat pose

Downward dog

4

WARRIOR II

Stand with your feet wide apart and stretch your arms wide at shoulder height. Turn your left foot in and your right foot out. Bend your right knee and look towards your right hand.

Breathe 4-5 times. Repeat on the other side.

Warrior II strengthens and stretches the legs and arms, developing inner strength.

DOWNWARD DOG

Kneel on all fours, tuck your toes under, straighten your legs, lift your sitting bones as high as possible and press your heels towards the ground. Breathe slowly and deeply. Rest on all fours when you need to.

Downward dog stretches and strengthens the back, shoulders, arms and legs, energising the body and calming the mind.

Warrior II

baby-magazine.co.uk | 79

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

I had my first baby naturally three years ago and we’ve been trying for a second for two years. I’m about to turn 40 – am I experiencing secondary infertility?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I

NUTRITION AND DIET: Many mums, t’s not uncommon to experience especially if they’re working, aren’t getting the difficulty conceiving a second child if you proper nutrition they need to create a baby. fell pregnant quickly the first time around.

Known as secondary infertility, the condition When they get home from work they have a baby to bathe and put to bed, and they don’t is far from abnormal but most women never nourish themselves enough. Looking at diet expect it to happen. I’m often asked about it and nutrition is really important as this can and there are several key things that I look at: impact egg quality. Often mothers put all their AGE: Age and how long you’ve been energy into their family and home, leaving trying for are key factors in understanding their own health and wellbeing further down your fertility status the second time around. the pecking order. You need to make space Women that are getting pregnant later in life for yourself and look after your diet, sleep and are often keen to try for a second baby quite exercise needs. Look at the key areas in your quickly and I regularly see mothers panicking life and create some time for nourishment. about the age gap between their children or EXHAUSTION: If you’re a working mum, the time of year their child will be born. These you’ll likely be exhausted by the time the kinds of thoughts create hurdles where a weekend comes, so catching up on your positive mindset is much more beneficial. sleep and having a bit of time to SEX: You absolutely have to have more sex to get pregnant a second ed yourself is vital. Often when Recommend I speak to couples that are time – aim for at least three times product struggling to conceive a week. Many women I see the second or third time just aren’t having enough sex around, their lifestyles because they are exhausted are a big contributing from trying to juggle looking factor. Both parents after a toddler and working and Vitafem supplement report not getting enough therefore they lack the energy. £22.50, zitawest.com

sleep, they’re too tired to have regular sex, and having their baby in the bed is draining them.

You’ve got to find a way to build up energy, because you need a lot of it to get pregnant.

SUPPLEMENTS: I’m a huge believer in supplements. Alongside a healthy diet, multivitamins and minerals like omega 3 and folate provide essential boosts for your body.

UNDERLYING MEDICAL ISSUES: When you have your first baby, sometimes things can happen that create complications when you come to the second attempt. For instance, you could have sustained a thyroid issue, or you could find that you’ve become anaemic. You may have put on some weight and need to drop a few pounds to be healthier, or your hormones might be less balanced than before. It’s a good idea to get a medical check, especially if you’re older.

Happily, many women who are struggling the second time around do go on to get pregnant naturally. But for those of you that are older, with more severe time constraints to consider, a good piece of advice is to set yourself a limit for trying naturally before you seek out professional help and assistance.

Zita West is the founder of the Zita West Fertility Clinic which specialises in a holistic approach to IVF. Instagram: @the_first_1000_days

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RUNNING HEAD

Pack your bags AS TH E BIG DAY N E AR S, FOU N DER OF BABYNIZER Judy Goldberg R EVE AL S H ER TOP TIPS FOR HOSPITAL BAG SUCCE SS

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PREPARATION

ARM CANDY HOT LIST

Getting your bits and pieces ready for delivery day may be an essential job but that doesn’t mean it has to weigh you down. Find a bag you love, make a list and you’ll have one less thing to do before you know it. After all, who doesn’t love a spot of bag shopping…

Storksak duffle £150, babynizer.co.uk

The water-repellent bag features a stylish fabric and includes a matching wash bag

Nylon weekender £160, jemandbea.com

hat starts off as a rather therapeutic task can soon become quite the opposite. Packing your hospital bag can be tricky because you don’t want to pack things you won’t use and end up with a bag that’s too heavy to carry, but at the same time you want to have the peace of mind that anything you might need will be easy to get hold of. Just remember – if all goes well, you won’t be in hospital for very long, and if you do have to stay longer, you can always ask your partner or a family member to bring you anything you may have overlooked.

The first thing I would advise is to call your hospital and ask what they will provide so you can tick those bits off your list. After that, pack two bags – one for you and one for baby. Inside baby’s bag, have a small pocket or separate compartment for the things you will need straight after birth. This could also take the form of a labelled freezing bag. Make sure to show your partner where everything is and explain your packing process to them. And don’t forget to pack any personal notes too.

In your bag, pack everything you would take for a short weekend away. Buy all your daily essentials fresh – like your toothbrush, toothpaste and soap – so you can put them in your bag in advance rather than having to remember them when labour has set in.

The other option, and the reason I set up Babynizer last year, is to purchase a prepacked hospital bag. With Babynizer you can buy a suitcase or changing bag with all the essentials you’ll need already packed inside, or you can just buy small bundles of fillings for your own bag instead. Next stop, delivery…

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

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Cotton-mix bag £184, theophile-patachou.com

Cotton-mix nursing bag £71, camcamcopenhagen.com

Hard-shell spinner case £319, samsonite.co.uk Vegan leather bag £178, zellieadventure.com

Blossom Paris changing bag £74, smallable.com

Don’t know where to start? Head to baby-magazine.co.uk/ hospital-bag to download our checklist! baby-magazine.co.uk | 83

2018

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HEALTH

The Breastfeeding Café with

PROFESSOR AMY BROWN

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

MY BABY IS DUE NEXT MONTH. WHAT THREE TIPS WILL GET BREASTFEEDING OFF TO A GOOD START?

T

hinking about breastfeeding for the first time can feel daunting. It’s really common to worry about whether you will know what to do, or whether you will be able to breastfeed your little one well.

These doubts are not helped by (typically exaggerated) horror stories shared in the media, and it’s important to remember that for every freak occurrence there are thousands of examples to the contrary.

Successful breastfeeding comes down to three main things: • Getting informed about how breastfeeding works • Working out who can support you • Believing in yourself The number one thing you can do to get breastfeeding off to a good start is to read up as much as you can about how it works. Don’t think that just because something is natural it will be instantly easy. After all, walking is natural but most of us had a bumpy ride of that in the beginning. One of the main reasons that problems arise is a lack of understanding about how breastfeeding works. A lot of new parents are surprised to find that their baby feeds far more often than they ever expected. But frequent feeding is normal and a good thing. Breast milk production works best when you feed your baby whenever they signal to be fed, rather than trying to force some kind of limit or schedule. Breast milk is also very easy to digest which means breastfed babies can feed every two

hours or more. They often feed irregularly too, sometimes on and off for a few hours (known as cluster feeding). This is normal and helps with milk production – the more you feed your baby, the more milk you will make.

The next thing to consider is your support system. Talk to your health professional and ask for relevant contacts like the breastfeeding specialist in your area. Or you can contact the National Breastfeeding Helpline (0300 100 0212) where trained experts can answer your queries. Never be afraid to ask for help.

Emotional support matters too. Sometimes it can feel like you’re doing it alone and no one else understands. This is where breastfeeding peer support groups come in. Again, ask your health professional for details of your local group – there you can meet other mothers and trained peer supporters who can help you with all your questions. It’s actually a great idea to go along and cultivate friendships before you have your baby if you can. Many have social media groups too, meaning you can still get support if you don’t fancy leaving the house or just want to know if someone else is awake in the dark early hours of the morning.

Finally, as cheesy as it sounds, believe in yourself. The majority of women can breastfeed, but support is available if you have any issues that might make it challenging.

Women have been breastfeeding their babies for millennia and with the right guidance there is every chance you will too. You’ve got this.

Professor Amy Brown is the author of The Positive Breastfeeding Book, (£14.99, Pinter & Martin Ltd) available September 2018

NURSING PILLOWS

Dreamgenii feeding pillow £26, mothercare.com

Nursing pillow £64.89, bbhugme.com

Nursing pillow £49.90, ergobaby.co.uk

My Breast Friend nursing pillow £55, johnlewis.com

Widgey nursing pillow £30, kidly.com

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LABOUR

Delivering THE GOODS

aesarean sections are a muchdebated area of childbirth and pregnancy and many people harbour strong opinions about it. Some are adamant that too many c-sections are performed nowadays without justification, and argue that, in many cases, a vaginal birth could have taken place if the mother or healthcare professionals had “really wanted it to”. Others feel that the advantages almost always outweigh any reasons why the procedure could or should be avoided. Either way, educating yourself as much as possible is the best way to develop an informed opinion – and prepare yourself for the occasion should it arise.

The rate of c-sections has increased significantly in the space of one generation and there are several explanations for this.

One reason is that the operation is now much safer. It is usually carried out under regional anesthetic, with an epidural or spinal block or both, rather than using general anesthetic (only used for two per cent of cases).

Another reason is that rotational forceps are now used less frequently because of their capacity to harm mother or baby, and though other assisted delivery methods (such as ventouse extraction) have improved, often a c-section is still the safer option in the event of complications during labour.

There are also social factors to consider.

More women are giving birth for the first time when they are over the age of 35, and older mothers may experience more complications in pregnancy and labour. IVF is commonly used and can lead to multiple pregnancies, which are more likely to need a c-section, and also there’s an increasing number of women who

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have gestational diabetes or a BMI over 35 – both of which increase the chance of needing a caesarean delivery.

A c-section can be either elective, meaning the timing is planned, or emergency. An emergency procedure usually occurs because a medical problem has arisen, and different grades are used to indicate the immediacy level. Grade one means that the baby needs to be delivered in 30 minutes, whereas grades two to four signify that delivery is required but not necessarily immediately.

An emergency caesarean may be needed if: the cord from the baby to the placenta protrudes from a woman’s cervix (known as a cord prolapse); the baby has an abnormal fetal heart rate pattern; the mother suffers on-going vaginal bleeding, or if, despite medicines, the mother’s cervix does not open.

The obstetrician may offer (it is always your choice) the chance for an elective caesarean if the placenta is lying over the cervix and preventing the baby’s head from descending into the birth canal, if the baby is lying transverse or breech or if the mother has had a c-section before and does not wish to try a natural birth. Sometimes babies arriving prematurely or need surgery following birth will require delivery by c-section.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THEATRE If you do need a c-section, your baby will be delivered in an operating theatre on a table.

There will be several experts with you, all with their own role, including theatre nurses, an obstetrician and assistant obstetrician, an anesthetist and assistant anesthetist and of course the midwife and paediatrician.

Be prepared for noise in the theatre – anything from high-pitched beeps from the anesthetic machine to the operating theatre telephone ringing. There are also bright spotlights above the operating table to enable the obstetrician to see clearly and to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Before starting the delivery you will hear the theatre staff reading through a “safe surgery checklist”, so that all present are clear about the nature of the operation and any possible complications that may occur.

When having an elective c-section, you can ask to see your baby slowly coming out of your abdomen, which is still a very special moment, but not wanted by everyone.

In total it usually takes less than five minutes to deliver your baby but about 45 minutes to repair the individual muscle and skin layers afterwards – so do expect the full process to take about one hour.

When your baby has been delivered, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut in the same way as if you had delivered vaginally, and you will be given the option of having the baby handed straight onto your chest or cleaned first. You will also be asked if you wish to breastfeed straight after the delivery or wait until you are in your recovery room.

For most women recovery is very quick.

New mothers often go home after just 24 hours if they wish to. But before you go, take advantage of your medical professionals’ expertise and ask them all your questions.

Remember your mode of delivery is your choice, and the obstetrician and midwife are there to make sure you have all the information you need.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Dr Penelope Law, CON SU LTANT OBSTE TRICIAN AN D GYNAECOLOGIST AT TH E PORTL AN D H OSPITAL, DISCUSSE S TH E CAE SAR E AN SEC TION PROCEDU R E AN D YOU R OP TION S

FAMILY

These days more and more women are giving birth by caesarean section

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MOTHERHOOD

ONLY MUMMY WILL DO WH EN YOU R BABY STARTS E XPERIEN CING SEPAR ATION ANXIE T Y IT CAN BE A TA XING TIM E. Georgina Blaskey E XPL AIN S H OW TO GE T TH ROUGH IT

ne day you have a newborn baby who, so small and fragile, so vulnerable and delicate, so reliant on you as their sole provider, is surprisingly happy in anyone’s arms. Once fed, changed and content, this bundle will happily nod off to sleep in a grandparent’s embrace or a maternity nurse’s care. Then a few months in to their life, they throw the rule book out the window and suddenly the only person they want is you. They seem panicky and upset when you’re not around and this can be difficult both for parents and other carers.

O

is between you and your baby.” Although your baby will have started to recognise familiar faces, such as grandparents, and surroundings, like their home, and feel comfortable with both, it’s not knowing when, or if, you will return that will upset them.

Angela Spencer, is a baby wellness and childcare expert with over 20 years experience, and the creator of Babyopathy, a child development programme based on your baby’s sensory journey from womb to birth and beyond. “Separation anxiety is such

SEPARATION ANXIETY IS SUCH AN IMPORTANT PART OF A BABY’S DEVELOPMENT Separation anxiety starts around eight months old and usually subsides by around one year. However, there’s no set pattern and it often returns when your baby is around two years old and aware of their own independence. This is a normal part of development, according to clinical psychologist Dr Sharon Lewis, who specialises in working with parents of under fives.

“Crying is to be expected when a baby is separated from their primary care giver – it demonstrates they have a healthy attachment,” explains Dr Lewis. “Rather than being a sign that something is wrong, it’s simply an indication of how strong the bond

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an important part of a baby’s development but quite often not thought about or acknowledged. I think we now ‘socialise’ our babies too much in the first six weeks of their lives when what they really need is to be building a very strong bond and contact with their closest family and establishing a routine.

But we don’t socialise them enough from three to six months when they should be meeting a wider circle of people and building new bonds ready for when that all-important separation anxiety stage kicks in. Introducing your baby to key people they will be left with (nursery staff or grandparents, for example) before they start is one of the best ways to

ensure your baby will not be traumatised when you return to work.”

Returning to work can be a difficult stage for many families, with childcare arrangements often unsatisfactory and stressful to fit around office hours. “I feel the current statutory maternity pay rulings mean that mums return to work somewhere around when their baby is six to nine months old, just as they begin experiencing separation anxiety,” explains Angela. “If, for whatever reason, the baby hasn’t been introduced to the carers before this it can be a tricky first few weeks for baby, mum and nursery staff.”

For pre-school children, separation anxiety can begin again when they take their first steps into a classroom. Dr Lewis explains, “At a later stage, such as starting nursery or Reception, a child will often cry at drop off for a few minutes but then move on and engage with what’s happening around them.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

XXXXXXXXXX

However, warning signs that separation anxiety has increased include bed wetting, stomach aches, nightmares, refusing to go to school and a fear that something may happen to the parent while they are out of sight,” says Dr Lewis.

Elaine Halligan, from The Parent Practice, offers this sage advice: “Be your child’s emotional coach – allow your child to be upset. Don’t deny or ignore their feelings by telling them to be a big boy and not to cry. Instead acknowledge that it can be hard to say goodbye and accept they may feel sad when you leave them. Allowing these emotions to be expressed does not make the emotions or behaviour worse but in fact it alleviates the stress these feelings are causing. Encourage your child to talk about how they feel, if they can. It’s not indulgent or making them weaker but helping them develop emotional intelligence which is key to communication.”

WAYS TO COPE According the National Childcare Trust (NCT), the best common strategies for dealing with separation anxiety are: Timing: Try not to leave when your baby is likely to be tired, hungry or restless.

If possible, schedule your departures for after naps and mealtimes.

Practice: Leave your child with a relative or friend for brief periods initially. If you’re planning to leave your baby with a relative or babysitter invite that person over in advance so they can meet them beforehand.

Consistency: Have a regular group of people who look after your baby and interact with them.

Familiarity: Keep surroundings as familiar as possible and make new surroundings

more familiar. If your baby is starting a new nursery make a few short visits there before a full-time schedule begins.

Ritual: Create a goodbye ritual during hich o sa a cal lo ing and fir goodbye. Don’t sneak away when she is not looking. Reassure her that you’ll be back. When you leave mean it, as returning will make things worse.

Follow through: Make sure you return when you promised and your child will de elo the confidence that she can a e it through the time apart.

The best way to deal with separation anxiety is give your baby reassurance – over and over again – that your absence doesn’t mean that you have gone away forever.

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Claremont Fan Court School Claremont Drive Esher Surrey KT10 9LY www.claremontfancourt.co.uk 90 | baby-magazine.co.uk

PREGNANCY

TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

MORNING SICKNESS The sisters talk about one of pregnancy’s most undesirable side effects

eeling sick during your pregnancy is not, as its name suggests, confined to the morning. It hits at random; some women spend their pregnancies amazed that they’ve never felt better, while others are plagued by vomiting and a general feeling of wretchedness.

Although we don’t know what exactly causes morning sickness, it tends to be more profound in women with high levels of hCG, the hormone your body produces as soon as the egg is fertilised. If you’re carrying twins or multiples, your hCG levels will be higher and you’re more likely to feel sick. For this reason, as annoying and uncomfortable as the nausea is, it’s actually reassuring that all is progressing well with your pregnancy.

Most women feel sickest between weeks four and 12; it usually gets better once you’re in your second trimester. But while you’re suffering, you’ll be wondering if there’s anything you can do to make it better.

Unfortunately, nobody has yet come up with a magical cure for morning sickness. However, after five years of supporting women through their pregnancies on The Bump Class, we’ve heard every tip that helps.

EAT: Even though this is probably the last thing you feel like doing, eating little and often will make you feel better. Women often find that if they get hungry, they will very quickly start to feel sick, so if you can prevent that hunger, you might prevent the sickness.

TRY GINGER: This is actually a natural anti-emetic (anti-sickness). It doesn’t matter whether the ginger is fresh or not, so make sure you stock up on ginger tea, biscuits or juice.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

F

VITAMIN B12: Some studies have revealed this can help with nausea, too.

Annoyingly its highest levels are in liver and shellfish, which you shouldn’t eat during pregnancy, but it’s also found in fish, cheese and eggs. If you can’t face these, use a supplement instead.

EXERCISE: Lots of women find that being active for as little as 20 minutes makes the world of difference. It doesn’t have to be the gym; try a brisk walk and see how you feel.

REST: Women often say they feel sicker in the mornings when they haven’t slept well. Since your body is doing so much work to create your baby in the first 12 weeks, it makes sense that your body is doing all it can to make sure you’re getting enough sleep. You might find it hard to justify daytime sleeps before you have a visible bump, but your body knows best, so listen to it!

ACCUPUNCTURE: Although the evidence behind it isn’t concrete, many pregnant women swear by accupuncture and reflexology. Just make sure you are seeing someone who has a good knowledge of treating pregnant women.

STAY POSITIVE: As wretched as you might feel in your first trimester, the one thing we can guarantee is that the joy your baby will bring you will make all that vomiting worth it.

However, if you really aren’t coping, speak to your doctor about treatment with medication. Although the advice is to avoid all medication in pregnancy, it’s a matter of weighing up the risk against the benefit. If your prescribed medication prevents you from getting dehydrated and allows you to function again, it’s probably worth it, plus there is increasing data on the safety of these medications in pregnancy.

Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are the founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South West London.

Their podcast The Parent Hood, is free to download on iTunes and Acast. Visit thebumpclass.com

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HEALTH

FROM THAT FIR ST FL ASH OF WHITE, DENTAL CAR E IS E SSENTIAL FOR YOU R CHILD’S TEE TH , SAYS Georgina Blaskey

hile it’s true babies (for the most part) are born with soft gummy smiles, their teeth are already embedded in their gums, waiting to make their first appearance. The first tooth to emerge can be pre-empted by days (and nights!) of red cheeks, drooling and unsettled feeding and sleeping. But the first time you spot that pure white gnasher gleaming in their mouth, it’s a momentous milestone.

Following that you can expect the others to come through over the course of the next 12 months. Most typically you can anticipate the bottom incisors first (bottom front teeth), usually at around five to seven months, followed by the top incisors (top front teeth), which tend to come through at about six to eight months. After that the top lateral incisors (either side of the top front teeth) come through at around nine to 11 months and then the bottom lateral incisors (either side of the bottom front teeth) at around 10 to 12 months. These are followed by the first molars (back teeth) around 12 to 16 months, the canines (towards the back of the mouth) around 16 to 20 months, and finally the second molars, around 20 to 30 months. Most children will have all of their milk teeth by the time they are two and a half years old – hallelujah!

Caring for your child’s teeth before they

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come through is more important that you may think. The number one worry is tooth decay – even when there are no teeth! If your baby consumes breast milk or formula out of a bottle, it is important you don’t put them to bed with the bottle. Because sugar is present in milk (from either source), you should avoid it soaking your baby’s teeth all night long. Less saliva is produced at night to wash the milk away so all teeth, even the ones that haven’t come through, are vulnerable.

Once that first tooth makes its grand entrance, start brushing. As well as being important for dental care, it’s an excellent habit to get in to. A small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a smear of special toothpaste designed specifically for babies is all you need – but make sure it contains fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay. Talk positively about brushing teeth, show them how you brush yours and make it a happy experience.

The sooner you can take your baby to see the dentist the better, usually once their first milk tooth has appeared. It will help them become familiar with the environment and get to know the dentist. They’ll be happy to open wide and it’ll help stop them worrying about future visits. NHS dental care for children is free so start them early and continue regular check ups.

HELP IS AT HAND You’ll need to find out what works best for your child but here are the NHS guidelines:

TEETHING RINGS Teething rings give your baby something to chew safely. This may ease their discomfort and distract them from any pain. Some teething rings can be cooled first in the fridge, which may help to soothe your baby’s gums. The instructions that come with the ring should tell you how long to chill it for. Never put a teething ring in the freezer, as it could damage your baby’s gums if it gets frozen.

TEETHING GELS These contain a mild local anesthetic, which helps to numb any pain caused by teething. The gels may also contain antiseptic ingredients, which help to prevent infection in any sore or broken skin in your baby’s mouth. Make sure you use a teething gel that’s specially designed for young ones.

RAW FRUIT AND VEGETABLES If your baby is six months or older, you can give them healthy things to chew on, such as raw fruit and veg.

Always stay close when your baby is eating in case they choke.

PARACETAMOL AND IBUPROFEN If your baby is in pain or has a mild raised temperature (less than 38°C), you may want to give them a sugarfree medicine.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Say cheese!

HEALTH

GET TO GRIPS Let baby get stuck into toys, teething rings and more – all designed to take the discomfort away from teething!

Always check the products are age appropriate…

Dental wipes £4.99 brushbaby.co.uk Silicone teething toy £9.99 matchstickmonkey.com

Silicone rattle ring £12, nibbling.co.uk

Teething gel £7.99 frezyderm.co.uk Sugar-free Nurofen for children £3.90 boots.com

Silicone finger brush £4.99 jackandjillkids.com Brush and teether set £6.75 brushbaby.co.uk

Aquafresh toothpaste £1.25 superdrug.com

Silicone bangles £9.95 each laraandollie.co.uk

It’s important to instil good hygiene habits even when they are small issa mikro baby electric toothbrush £79 foreo.com

HEALTH

meet

the

EXPERTS OU R H E ALTHCAR E PROFE SSIONAL S AN SWER YOU R QU E STION S ABOUT PR EGNANC Y AN D BEYON D WHAT IS MEASLES, MUMPS AND RUBELLA (MMR), AND WHEN WILL MY DAUGHTER NEED HER FIRST INJECTION? Measles, mumps, and rubella (also called German measles) used to be quite common in childhood. However, the conditions are far more infrequent now because we routinely vaccinate most children against them.

Measles causes a red rash, high temperature, runny nose and sore eyes. It can also produce acute complications like convulsions and diarrhoea and – very rarely – permanent brain damage and even death.

Mumps causes swelling of the glands in the neck, aches, pains and tiredness. It can lead to inflammation of the pancreas, which increases the risk of diabetes and can result in meningitis and swelling in the brain. Sometimes this can make it difficult for the inflicted to walk

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and they may be more inclined to show behavioural problems too. Boys and men may suffer inflammation of the testicles, which can (if it happens after puberty) make it difficult for them to reproduce in the future.

Rubella usually causes a rash and swollen glands but sufferers can often have it without displaying any symptoms. It is most harmful to pregnant women because it can lead to miscarriage or serious birth defects, including deafness and heart problems. Your baby is most likely to be affected if you catch rubella early in your pregnancy (before 11 weeks).

The MMR vaccine protects children from contracting measles, mumps and rubella and from experiencing the complications associated with them. It is given out over the course of two injections. We administer the first when the child is between 12 and 15 months old and give the second when the child is aged between three and five years.

Not everyone responds to the MMR vaccine the first time they receive the injection. After the first dose, up to 10 in 100 children will have no protection against the conditions. But after two doses, this figure drops to less than one in 100. Your child may experience some mild side effects from the vaccine like a high temperature, a rash or swollen glands. Some children also become a bit irritable and a small number have convulsions (fits). These are temporary however and there’s no evidence that the vaccine causes long-term harm.

Consult your doctor if your child is unwell or has a disease when they’re due to take the vaccine, or if they’re taking a medical treatment that affects their immune system or if they have had a severe allergic reaction to neomycin. You can also seek advice if you have general concerns about the vaccination.

Dr Daniela Peeva MD, consultant paediatrician at Richmond Practice

HEALTH

MY DUE DATE WAS EARLIER THIS WEEK AND BABY IS SHOWING NO SIGNS OF ARRIVING. IS IT LIKELY THAT I’LL BE INDUCED? NOW THAT MY BABY’S A LITTLE OLDER I NEED TO START THINKING ABOUT CONTRACEPTION. BUT I’M STILL BREASTFEEDING, SO WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?

If your pregnancy has been uncomplicated up to this point, then the short answer is no.

If your pregnancy has been straightforward then the best option is to wait a little longer for labour to start spontaneously. In most cases, you won’t be offered an induction until you have reached 41-42 weeks, in accordance with the guidelines from the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE).

However, if you notice a reduction in fetal movement, or you begin to feel unwell, you need to alert your clinical team as soon as possible, and they will advise you whether it is necessary to take some kind of action.

If you have been diagnosed with any kind of medical condition or complication before or during your pregnancy, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, then it is highly likely that you’ve already been induced anyway. If not, you’ll probably find that your team will recommend an induction shortly.

There are also some alternatives that can help to bring on labour before induction needs to be considered. Your consultant or midwife can administer a “stretch and sweep” internal examination of your cervix, which can sometimes encourage labour naturally. You should also try to keep active, because being mobile can help a lot. The best thing to do, however, is just to carry on as normal – go for walks, eat and drink regularly and ensure you stay hydrated.

I know it is hard and extremely tiresome, but try to stay as relaxed as possible. Sit back and let your hormones do the work!

Rebecca Crowe, midwife on the Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Hospital, London

Everyone is different, but women’s bodies can become fertile again as early as 21 days after giving birth. For this reason, unless you are intending to have another child immediately, it is recommended that you discuss your options with your health visitor or GP no later than one week after having your baby.

Don’t assume that because you’re breastfeeding you don’t require an effective contraceptive, even if you’re not having periods. Ovulation takes place two weeks before a period happens, so you will be unaware of when there is a risk of pregnancy.

Some contraceptive methods can impact breast milk supply – notably those that contain oestrogen, like the combined oral contraceptive pill, the vaginal ring or the combined skin patch. Apart from these, you can trust most options. Typically the most popular choices are the mini-pill or condoms.

Most women do not experience any major side effects when taking contraception shortly after having a baby, especially if they have made an informed choice with the help of their GP. While you are breastfeeding, you may find that you don’t have periods, and especially so while you’re taking the mini-pill.

You can also take emergency contraception while breastfeeding. The coil must be inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse, but it may not be a suitable option if you have had a caesarean. The emergency pill contains progesterone only, so it can be taken without problems and Levonelle can be used while breastfeeding too. Although small amounts of the hormones contained in the pill may pass into your breast milk, it’s not thought to be harmful to your baby.

If you want to have another baby next year or avoid too much of an age gap, use something that doesn’t affect your cycles too much, such as condoms or a coil.

Dr Shazia Malik, obstetrician and Rebecca Crowe Daniela Peeva MD gynaecologist at The Portland Hospital imperialprivatehealthcare.co.uk richmondpractice.co.uk

I’VE DECIDED THAT I WANT TO HAVE AN EPIDURAL. CAN I STILL USE HYPNOBIRTHING TECHNIQUES DURING LABOUR? Absolutely, of course you can! Hypnobirthing is simply a programme of antenatal education.

It can be used for all births, with or without an epidural, from water births and home births to inductions and even caesareans.

This might come as a surprise because it’s common to associate hypnobirthing with natural water births, but actually it’s always crucial to have a set of tools you can use to help you stay calm when the pain becomes more challenging, regardless of your specific birthing circumstances. It’s amazing when a birth passes without complications but the reality is that every woman’s journey is different and we should be open-minded and recognise that all births can be positive with the right tools and mindset in place.

By far the most common “hypnobirthing techniques” involve breathing, massage and guided relaxations. All are designed to help you feel calm and in control. Not only can you use these techniques if you’ve had an epidural but you can use them whenever you feel anxious or stressed too. They are life skills!

When it comes to the delivery room, the reason it’s so important to be relaxed is so that your body can produce oxytocin, the hormone you need for birth. When you are scared or panicked, you produce adrenaline which slows labour down and can make things more painful – not ideal! Although an epidural provides effective pain relief, you still need oxytocin – and not adrenaline – for labour to progress without the need for further intervention. Creating the right environment, using your breath through the surges and exploring light touch massage and other relaxation exercises will help you enormously.

Siobhan Miller, hypnobirthing teacher at The Positive Birth Company

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

OUR PANEL

Shazia Malik

Siobhan Miller

theportlandhospital.com thepositivebirthcompany.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 95

ACTIVITIES

In the swim of things Paul Thompson, FOU N DER OF WATER BABIE S, E XPL AIN S TH E BEN EFITS OF SWIMMING WITH BABY id you know that babies have the natural ability to swim? This is due to two intelligent reflexes: the swimming reflex and the dive reflex. The former means baby will move their arms and legs in a swimming motion when supported in the water while tummy-side down; the latter means that baby’s can hold their breath and open their eyes when underwater.

These reflexes are strongest in the first six months of life. And the NHS advises you can take your baby swimming any time before and after their immunisations – so it’s never too soon to get them in the pool, as long as the water’s warm enough (above 30˚C for a baby

D

older than 12 weeks or heavier than 12lbs, and 32˚C if they’re younger or smaller).

Baby swimming originally evolved out of a desire to ensure they were safe and confident in water. However, the exercises used to teach this confidence – gentle rocking, reaching for objects, kicking movements and learning to respond to commands – also provide stimulation for your baby’s brain. In the first year of their life, the brain develops more rapidly than at any other time, and swimming with your baby can have an extremely positive effect on this development – even more reason to take to the water with your little one as early as possible.

BABY’S CAN HOLD THEIR BREATH UNDERWATER DEVELOPMENT OF MOTOR SKILLS Babies love the repetitive movement of bouncing and splashing in the pool, and this movement provides fantastic stimulation for the vestibular system, which allows us to sense motion and to balance.

As this system matures, it will help a baby to keep their head upright, pull themselves up onto their feet, balance, and eventually walk.

Chasing after bright and colourful toys in the pool, and grasping them to bring them closer for a good old chew, is a great exercise for enhancing hand-eye coordination. The crosslateral movement of reaching out is the same one used in crawling. This teaches both sides of the brain to work together, not only helping to coordinate physical movements but also strengthening nerve pathways between the two sides, helping the brain store and retrieve information more effectively.

One study recently carried out in Iceland (where baby swimming is extremely popular in the country’s thermal pools) concluded that, when tested at the age of four, children who

96 | baby-magazine.co.uk

ACTIVITIES Swim nappy £10.99, waterbabies.co.uk

Swim seat bouyancy aid £18, speedo.com

Archimede float suit £44, childrensalon.com

Changing mat £19.99, closeparent.com

Orby warm suit £22, kidly.com

had attended baby swimming lessons from a young age showed significantly better balance than their peers. Their ball skills and dexterity were also tested, with the early water babies achieving better results.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JEZ DIXON FOR WATER BABIES; IAN TAYLOR FOR WATER BABIES.

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT It’s not only motor skills which are benefited by swimming; physically it is wonderful for your baby, and the only form of exercise they can do literally from birth. Just half an hour in the pool can provide a complete work-out for them (and you!) and parents often comment that their little ones eat and sleep better on the days they go swimming. Babies can exercise many more muscles in the water than they can on land, and amazingly can swim short distances unaided from when they are tiny. Sessions in the pool are great for strengthening arm, leg and neck muscles, and are superb for tiny lungs and cardiovascular fitness.

Swimming will not only make your baby fitter and stronger, you will also notice the difference in their physical ability on land, where regular

swimmers have often been shown to crawl and walk earlier than their non-swimming peers.

EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT As babies learn how to manoeuvre in the water on their own, their confidence blossoms, and they enjoy being in the pool more and more.

Where they might be very dependant on you in the early days, a few months on, a baby will happily swim a short distance between you and the instructor, or splash off the poolside and into the water all by themselves.

The confidence and self-esteem will often then be transferred into other aspects of their life. For a toddler, the thrill of grasping a new skill in their lesson, or achieving something they have been working up to for a while, will be evident in their ear-to-ear grins – and may also give them the confidence to try new things and increase their interest in learning in general.

Lastly, is the benefit of all the fun you and your baby can have together. So enjoying a swim every week, with all these added benefits, is surely conducive to a dip!

Swimming aid £22.99, swimfin.co.uk

Armbands £6, jojomamanbebe.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 97

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW KEEPING AN EYE ON BABY COU LDN ’ T BE E ASIER WITH TH E SE MONITOR S, SAYS Laura Mason Best for TECH

Best for VIDEO

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SECURITY

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Angelcare’s kit provides audio and video and monitors the temperature of baby’s room

Best for AUDIO

NETGEAR

Arlo Baby Video Camera This monitor works with an app on your phone and offers 1080p HD video, lullabies, white noise, sound and motion detection and thousands of light options. It checks temperature, humidity and air quality and can connect to Alexa and Google Assistant too. £222.31 (cat skin extra), shop.bt.com

98 | baby-magazine.co.uk

VTECH

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With an extended reach of 450m and zero interference, this fab monitor picks up a secure transmission and offers a clear sound. An LED visual indicator complements the sound recording and the handy clip makes it easy to transport. £24.99 (on sale end of July), argos.co.uk

This smart security camera doubles as an intuitive baby monitor. You can watch a live stream directly from your phone and use the microphone for two-way talking, all the while feeling reassured by the enhanced security features. The whole family can feel safe knowing the alarm will be triggered if an intruder is detected. £229, amazon.co.uk

Pop the sensor pad beneath the mattress to receive reports on baby’s movements. The gadget will trigger an alert if no movement is detected for 20 seconds, providing the ultimate piece of mind, especially in those early days. £269.99, angelcareshop.co.uk

You can expect a clear picture day or night with this new device. Moving the parent monitor adjusts baby’s camera, giving you the ability to find the exact angle you need to check up on your little one. Also, receive alerts if baby moves outside a safe sleeping boundary. £199.99, summerinfant.co.uk

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baby-magazine.co.uk | 99

Sleep small.

We believe that everybody deserves the perfect start, including new additions to the family. That’s why we made the eve baby mattress. It’s suitable from birth to six years and available in both cot and cot bed sizes.

evemattress.co.uk

It’s breathable, it’s supportive, it’s everything your little one needs in a mattress. Plus with our specialised waterproof panel it protects against those small accidents.

We also donate 15% of profits on the baby mattress to The Lullaby Trust, who provide expert advice on safer sleeping for babies. With free delivery and a 30 night home trial, what’s not to love?

INTERIORS

THE ROYAL TREATMENT Luxury childrenswear designer Princess MarieChantal of Greece has teamed up with nursery brand Silver Cross to create a gorgeous array of prams, bedding and furniture. Included in the collection is a stylish chest of draws with an easy-to-remove changer top, and a wooden cot bed complete with antique bronze handles, elegant panel detailing and a large drawer for storage. £750 each, silvercrossbaby.com

interior

NEWS

ST YLISH U PDATE S AN D IN SPIRING FIN DS TO MAKE YOU R HOUSE A H OM E YOURS TO KEEP As if Cam Cam Copenhagen’s Harlequin Changing Table wasn’t stylish enough, the Danish brand has now launched the product in a gorgeous petroleum colour. It features minimalistic brass knobs and can easily transform into a regular cabinet when you no longer need nappies. £530, camcamcopenhagen.com

SOFT TOUCH Have you seen Indigo and Rose’s beautiful new website? Founded in 2010, the home and lifestyle brand now has a fresh online space to show off its collection of contemporary and classic interiors, from soft cushions and blankets to adorable wool animals scented with lavender. And with a plethora of design options, there’s something for everyone!

From £6, indigoandrose.co.uk

The SnüzKot Ombre, which launches exclusively with Mothercare this summer, has a sophisticated light wood and white design and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is older. Complete the look with the matching changing unit. £828 for the two-piece set, mothercare.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 101

SIT PRETTY

Finding the right highchair for your baby should be primarily about comfort and safety, but this doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. Clockwise from top left: this functional design from Danish brand Leander comes with a handy removable tray and a selection of colourful cushions (£204.95, scandiborn.co.uk); we love the versatility of the iCandy MiChair, with its optional waist harness, easy-to-clean surfaces and high back for maximum support (£465, icandyworld.com); the award-winning Tripp Trapp highchair has an iconic and timeless style, as well as an adjustable seat and useful footplate to provide comfort for all ages (£174, stokke.com); make eating together easy with this contemporary creation from Scandinavian label Flexa, which will see your child right through to the age of 12 (£200, innes.co.uk).

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14/06/2018 11:59:58 baby-magazine.co.uk | 103

RUNNING HEAD

Sweet dreams

BAT TLING TH E MIN EFIELD OF COTS? Rebecca Moore TALKS YOU TH ROUGH WHAT TO CON SIDER TO MAKE TH E PER FEC T CHOICE

British brand Snüz offer a style to suit every nursery with the SnüzKot

hh, there’s such an air of excitement when you’re in the throes of sorting baby’s nursery. Along with the artsy wall prints, height chart and bundles of cushions, there is, of course, the most important part to the puzzle… the cot.

It’s a known fact that for the first two years of a baby’s life, they’ll spend more time sleeping than not, so putting some time aside for buying the right cot is crucial. The safest place for your baby to sleep is on their own surface, in the same room as you, for the first six months. Many parents choose to use a small crib or moses basket for the first four to

A

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six months, then move the baby into a cot.

The first thing to address, of course, is safety. In the UK, all cots must meet European Safety Standards and should carry the British Standards Institution (BSI) number BS EN 716:2008. This means that the cot is deep enough to be safe for your baby, that the bars are the correct distance apart (no more than 6.5cm apart), and that the cot does not have cut-outs on which babies could potentially harm themselves.

When it comes to choosing a cot, space is obviously a major influencer. If you’re on the cosy side, you may be best off buying a cot

as the dimensions are usually much smaller than those of a cotbed. If space isn’t an issue, cotbeds are a better investment as they grow with your child; just remember to check the measurements before making a purchase.

Style is also high up on the list. Skandidesign has been a real trend in the nursery world, with Dutch and Danish brands such as Kidsmill and Leander offering some modern takes on the traditional cot. British brands offering some real crowd pleasers include Snüz, as part of The Little Green Sheep empire who launched the Snüzkot last year, and emerging effortlessly cool brand Mokee.

NURSERY Tutti Bambini ‘Katie’ cotbed, £249, uberkids.com Converting into a junior bed, this mini cotbed will last until your little one is around four years old.

‘Mia’ sleigh cot package, £279, mamasandpapas.com This three-piece cot package comes complete with cot, attachable changer and under-bed storage unit.

Mini cot, £79, mokee.eu This cot from British brand Mokee is a real space-saving solution. With seven mattress positions, it’ll see you through until your toddler is three.

Leander baby bed, £765, (includes ‘Coco’ mattress) naturalmat.co.uk Use the included extension parts and you have a bed for a seven-year-old child!

‘Alma Papa’ cotbed, £499, bloombaby.co.uk This fully-foldable cotbed from Bloom comes with wheels, lasting until around your child is four years old.

There are also heritage-style brands such as Silver Cross, Boori and Dragons of Walton Street offering some rather opulent options.

Features to look out for are drop-sides and adjustable base heights, both designed predominantly for comfort of the parent. A drop-side – as the name suggests – literally means that one of the sides drops down – a saving grace if you’re suffering with a bad back or have had a c-section; however, this isn’t usually an option with cotbeds. Adjustable base heights work in a similar way, changing the height of where the mattress sits. Start with the base high while your baby is very

Cam Cam Copenhagen ‘Harlequin’ baby bed, £799, nubie.co.uk At the push of two buttons, remove the side panel and this becomes a cosy toddler bed.

young, so that you can easily take her in and out. As she gets older, you can lower the base so the mattress is further from the top, preventing adventurous babies from climbing out. The majority of cots on the market come with this function, but the number of different heights can vary; realistically you need no more than two or three settings.

Some other features you may come across are teething rails and wheels. A teething rail protects your cotbed as many toddlers make a habit of chewing on their cot. A few cots come with one fitted, or you can often buy these separately from the cot

Kidsmill ‘Nikki’ cot, £709, naturalbabyshower.co.uk Parents can rely on Danish brand Kidsmill to provide plenty of cool playful designs.

SnüzKot ‘Skandi’ cotbed, £349, snuz.co.uk By purchasing an extension kit (additional £79.95), the SnüzKot extends the life up to 10 years.

manufacturers. You’ll also find that cots can come on wheels, but fear not – these are lockable. Far from an essential, but something worth contemplating if you think you’ll be moving the cot from room to room.

Finally, don’t leave it to the last minute!

Delivery times for cots can alter depending on the company, with some taking over four weeks to arrive. Bear in mind that some companies offer to build the cot for you, while those such as TaskRabbit offer flat-pack services. Remember this is a special time, so enjoy it, because before long you’ll have a beautiful sleeping baby in there.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 105

At The Hawthorns we believe in every child.

We give them every opportunity to realise their potential, through both academic achievement and enriching activities. Our happy, family atmosphere is complemented by the school’s beautiful parkland setting, in a location just 30 minutes from London via Redhill rail station.

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106 | baby-magazine.co.uk

JUNIOR SCHOOL

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food

NEWS TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST TR E ATS FOR BABIE S, CHILDR EN AN D PAR ENTS

SAY CHEESE

Childhood classic macaroni and cheese is the latest meal option to join the line-up at Little Dish. Made with creamy cheddar and hidden chunks of sweet potato and carrot, just pop the meal in the microwave from chilled or frozen and dinner will be ready in no time.

As with all Little Dish products, it’s made from 100 per cent natural ingredients and is low in salt. Suitable from age one. £2.30, tesco.com

This clever book offers an unusual approach to help little ones improve shape recognition

SMOOTH OPERATOR

EYES ON THE PRIZE Can you spot the umbrella amongst the mushrooms? How about the snake hiding in the root vegetables? Food Hide and Sneak is the latest odd-oneout title in the Phaidon series, featuring two-tone stencil-print illustrations

by Bastien Contraire. Help little ones find the imposter in each drawing and have a giggle along the way. Published 3 September. £9.95, phaidon.com

Blend up a healthy dish for your baby wherever you are with the ingenious, 18cm Itsy Blitz portable blender. The handy gadget lets you purée food to your desired texture and holds an impressive four days’ worth of energy per charge. It also features a standby function to avoid battery drain. £50, myitsy.com

READY STEADY COOK Originally launched almost 30 years ago, the Babycook from Béaba is still as popular as ever. The four-in-one food processor can steam, blend, defrost and reheat food for your baby, from fruit and veg to fish and meat. The device has also been transformed recently with the release of a limitededition collection of pastel colours including rose gold, jade green, aqua blue and vanilla. £120, beaba.co.uk

KIDDYLICIOUS’ NEW PRODUCTS ARE SURE TO DELIGHT. THE CHEESY STRAWS ARE SUITABLE FROM NINE MONTHS AND MAKE A GREAT FINGER FOOD; THE STRAWBERRY, APPLE AND BANANA BISCOTTI ARE FAB MASHED IN MILK; AND THE OATY PORRIDGE IS THE FIRST READY-TO-EAT BABY PORRIDGE ON THE MARKET. FROM 70P, OCADO.COM

baby-magazine.co.uk | 107

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108 | baby-magazine.co.uk

55 Cheam Road, Sutton, Surrey SM1 2AX T. 020 8225 3001 E. admissions@sut.gdst.net

NUTRITION

SUNSHINE CURRY

Dr Hazel Wallace, BE ST KN OWN AS TH E FOOD M EDIC , SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE PR EGNAN C Y R ECIPE FOR GOOD IRON INTAKE

I

ron is needed to make haemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen around the body. Usually women aged 18 to 50 are advised to have 14.8mg per day, but they will need more if pregnant. Low levels can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, and can result in pale skin, headaches, tiredness, dizziness and – if left untreated during pregnancy – even low birth weight or preterm delivery. A simple blood test will inform you of your iron levels.

All pregnant women are offered a screening for anaemia at 28 weeks, and if deficient you will be advised to take a supplement.

But while your need for iron will increase as your baby grows, this doesn’t have to mean that you will become deficient, and there is no benefit to taking a precautionary supplement if your levels are already fine. A well-crafted diet should provide for your nutritional needs, but if you do feel you may need a supplement, speak to your doctor or midwife first.

CHICKPEA, CARROT & RED PEPPER CURRY Serves 4

Chickpeas are a great source of plant (nonhaem) iron and the inclusion of yellow bell peppers will boost the vitamin C content of the dish, helping to improve absorption.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp coconut oil • 1 onion, finely sliced • 2 garlic cloves, grated • 1 tsp garam masala • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 1 tsp ground cumin • ¼ tsp chilli powder, or more if preferred • ¼ tsp salt • 1 tbsp tomato purée • 400g tomatoes • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped • 1 bell pepper (yellow, orange or red), deseeded and sliced • 400ml reduced-fat coconut milk • 400g chickpeas, drained and rinsed TO SERVE (OPTIONAL)

• Brown rice • 1 large roasted sweet potato, to stuff with the curry

METHOD

Heat the oil in a large saucepan and add the onion. Cook until it has softened, usually no more than 5 minutes.

Add the garlic, spices, salt and tomato purée and stir to combine. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

Tip in the tomatoes, breaking them up with a wooden spoon, and simmer for 10 minutes.

Add the carrots and pepper, then pour in the coconut milk and bring to the boil. Simmer for 15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened

and the carrots have softened but still have some bite to them.

Add the chickpeas and warm through for a further 5 minutes. Eat immediately, served with rice or stuffed into a baked sweet potato.

Alternatively, store in an airtight container in the fridge for a last-minute dinner later on.

THE FOOD MEDIC FOR LIFE: Easy recipes to help you live well every day (£20, Yellow Kite) by Dr Hazel Wallace is available now

baby-magazine.co.uk | 109

FOOD

Taste Sensation IN FANT N UTRITION SPECIALIST Alice Fotheringham BRINGS H ER FAVOU RITE BABYFRIEN DLY R ECIPE S TO TH E TABLE

110 | baby-magazine.co.uk

FOOD

B A N A N A , B L U E B E R RY, A P P L E & VA N I L L A P U R É E Cooking: 10 minutes Makes 4 portions Suitable from 6 months Suitable or freezing (and makes a delicious ice cream, too!)

Blueberry brings a burst of freshness to this sweet combination of bananas and apples.

Make this comforting mix even more special with the addition of smooth vanilla.

INGREDIENTS

• 132g banana, peeled (1 large banana) • 200g apples, peeled, cored and chopped (around 2 and a half apples) • 80g blueberries • Pinch of vanilla beans METHOD

Steam the apples until soft.

Transfer the apples, banana, blueberries and vanilla into a bowl or mixer, and then purée until smooth.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 111

FOOD

MEDITERR ANEAN STEW Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 30 minutes Makes 6 portions Suitable for freezing

This is a perfect batch-cook recipe! All it takes is a bit of prep with the vegetables, but if you make double you can split some to purée into a pasta sauce for later. Some can also be served as a stew with baked sweet potato, or with couscous, rice or quinoa.

INGREDIENTS

• Dash of olive oil • 1 shallot or half a small onion, peeled and finely chopped • ½ garlic clove, peeled and crushed • 1 red pepper, cored and diced • ½ aubergine, cubed • 1 courgette, cubed • ½ medium butternut squash, cubed • 400g tin chopped tomatoes • 400g tin of chickpeas • 4 dried dates, destoned and chopped • 75ml water or low salt stock • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or mixed herbs • ½ teaspoon of cinnamon • 2 basil leaves, chopped METHOD

Heat the oil in a deep pan and add the onions.

Stir until the onions are soft, add the garlic and cook for a few more minutes.

Add all the other vegetables (throw in a dash of water or reduce the heat if they start to catch on the bottom of the pan).

Add the tinned tomatoes and chickpeas, stock, dates, cinnamon and oregano and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Cook for around 15-20 minutes until all the vegetables are soft. Take off the heat and add the basil, and serve either chunky or purée to the desired consistency.

112 | baby-magazine.co.uk

FOOD

B A BY B R E A D S T I C K S Preparation: 40 minutes plus proofing Cooking: 10 minutes Makes around 20 breadsticks Suitable from 6 months INGREDIENTS

• 250g bread flour • 130g water plus 15-30g extra • 2g instant yeast • 4g salt • 12g extra light olive oil • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped • 2 teaspoons freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional) METHOD

Preheat oven at 180°C. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast with 130g water.

In a large mixing bowl, add flour and make a well in the centre. Mix in the yeast mixture and add salt. Add the remaining water little by little, though it’s not necessary to use all the water. Knead until a dough is formed.

Add the olive oil and continue kneading until this is fully absorbed into the dough (the dough should be wet and sticky at this stage).

Knead until the dough is less sticky.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead until soft and smooth.

Test the dough by doing a ‘membrane test’.

You do this by taking out a small piece of

dough, gently stretch it outwards at all the directions to form a thin layer of ‘membrane’.

If your dough has not reached this stage, continue kneading. In the last few minutes of kneading, add rosemary and parmesan if using.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with cling film and proof for 20 minutes at room temperature.

Divide the dough into 3 equal portions and shape into balls. Place them into a large container, cover with cling film and proof in the fridge for 1 hour.

Remove the chilled dough from the fridge.

Let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.

Work on one dough at a time.

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangular shape with 0.2-0.3cm thickness. Roll from centre towards outside at four different directions. Make sure the dough has equal thinness – you may need to roll it several times. Sprinkle some flour (on the surface and on the rolling pin) as and when required to avoid dough from sticking.

Brush the dough lightly with olive oil. Use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into small strips (about 8-10cm long x 1cm width each). Hold both ends and twist the strip.

Place on a lightly greased baking tray. Cover with cling film and proof for 15 minutes.

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Then leave it in the oven (without heat) for another 2 minutes.

Alice Fotheringham is infant nutrition specialist at Piccolo. Piccolo is an organic baby food brand with roots in the Mediterranean approach to feeding children. The brand also supports the NCT and gives 10 per cent of its profit to food education. For more information, visit mylittlepiccolo.com

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chinthurstschool.co.uk

Open Mornings 4 October & 15 November

Outstanding 11+ Results 2018

Co-educational school for children aged 3-11 years 52 Tadworth Street, Tadworth, Surrey, KT20 5QZ admissions@chinthurstschool.co.uk Telephone 01737 812011 @Chintschool

facebook.com/ChinthurstSchool

reigatestmarys.org

Part of the Reigate Grammar School Family

reigatestmarys.org reigatestmarys.org

An Extra Year 3 Class From September 2017

‘Excellent’ - ISI Inspection 2016 An Extra Year 3 Class From September 2017

An Extra Year 3 Class From September 2017

OPEN MORNING Wednesday 3 May OPEN MORNING Open Mornings 10 October and 21 November OPEN MORNING Co-ed School for children aged 3-11 Reigate St Mary’ s School Chart lane, Wednesday 3 May Junior School of Reigate St Mary’s School, Chart Lane, Reigate, RH2 7RN 01737 244880 Reigate RH2 7RN 01737244880 Wednesday 3 May office@reigatestmarys.org office@reigatestmarys.org @RSMPrepSchool Reigate St Mary’s School Chart lane, Reigate RH2 7RN 01737244880 office@reigatestmarys.org

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facebook.com/ReigateStMarys

Junior School of Reigate St Mary’s School Chart lane, Reigate RH2 7RN 01737244880 office@reigatestmarys.org

Junior School of

FUN IN THE SUN

If you’re heading for Martinhal’s resorts in the Algarve in the next few months, there’s a lot going on in the local area to entertain the whole family. Fiesa, the impressive international sand sculpture festival will be at Pêra until November; Pirate Week, a festival with markets and performers takes place in Alvor from 24 to 28 August and Portimão Arena’s Fun Day is on 27 October. martinhal.com

travel

NEWS

WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW LOOK EAST Powder Byrne has added a new division to its collection of holiday offerings.

Inspired Japan is a tailor-made service offering the best the country has to offer, from seasonal recommendations to hand-picked hotels, whether you want to ski in Hokkaido or soak up the city sights. There are sample itineraries for families too, with activities to keep kids entertained. inspiredjapan.com

BabyBjörn’s Travel Cot Easy Go opens in one motion and features a breathable, translucent mesh fabric on every side, allowing you to keep an eye on your sleeping tot. It weighs 6kg and comes with its own travel case. Suitable from birth to three years old. £219, babybjorn.co.uk

AT YOUR SERVICE Entertain the little ones with the Toy Butler service from Jumeirah Hotels. Available in its Carlton Tower and Lowndes Hotel sites in London, lucky children will receive a bespoke box of outdoor toys while their parents enjoy a picnic hamper full of edible goodies. The full package includes a night’s stay with breakfast and further treats for the kids during your stay. From £434, jumeirah.com

THE POPULARITY OF STAYCATION HOLIDAYS IS SET TO CONTINUE DUE TO THE WEAK POUND-TO-EURO EXCHANGE RATE, PREDICTS LUXURY FAMILY HOTELS. RECENT RESEARCH REVEALED THAT A QUARTER OF ADULTS WOULD STAY IN THE UK IF THEY WON £1,000 FOR A HOLIDAY. LUXURYFAMILYHOTELS.CO.UK

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RUNNING HEAD

POSTCARD FROM

CRETE

KISS FM DJ AN D MOTH ER Neev Spencer H E ADS TO ON E OF GR EECE’S MOST BE AUTIFU L ISL AN DS n all my years of travelling in Europe I had never made it to Greece, so when the time came to arrange a big family holiday, Crete and its crystal-clear waters seemed like the perfect option. But accommodating a large group is never easy and with my toddler – Genevieve is almost two – and seven-month-old nephew in tow, it was crucial to find a resort that would cater for all our needs.

Transporting a little one can be one of the most challenging aspects of travelling, so I ordered the Silver Cross Reflex stroller before jetting off – and it turned out to be a real lifesaver.

We cruised through the airport and Genevieve drifted off into a long afternoon nap just as we boarded the four-hour plane journey – bliss! We had no mid-air tantrums and trusty Peppa Pig was on hand to keep her amused.

I’ve been wanting to visit Blue Palace Resort & Spa for many years. A 50-minute drive from Heraklion airport, the resort stands along a stunning hillside with enviable views of the impressive island of Spinalonga. You can’t help but get those “holiday feels” all day long while you’re looking out over the bay. The waters in Greece are exactly as people say: bright blue and crystal clear. And as for the hospitality, we received the warmest of welcomes – something that lasted throughout the whole holiday.

I

The resort’s Arsenali Lounge Bar is perfect at sunset

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Our room for the week was one of the impressive Island Suites, complete with a separate living dining space and a private pool. The accommodation was super spacious and the whole hotel was a pleasure to be in. The standards are very high, and the design combines traditional Greek architecture with modern style.

Having a space this large allowed us to enjoy the break ourselves, too.

Genevieve was able to go to bed on time and my husband and I could enjoy the odd glass of wine on the terrace or watch a film in the adjacent room while she was asleep. We spent our days exploring the resort – its facilities kept the group interested – and we indulged in fresh fish and delicious local delicacies at the hotel.

Our favourite dinner was at the Blue Door Taverna, the resort’s traditional Greek restaurant set on the beach.

From the trees and blossoming flowers to the stunning sea, the resort was perfect. The staff were friendly and always tried to help with any of our babyrelated needs, like having high chairs ready at our breakfast table and washing bottles, plates, bibs and cutlery after meals. We made some amazing memories in this spot and I will always remember Genevieve’s excitement every breakfast, thinking about the day ahead.

From ¤235 per night in a superior bungalow, bluepalace.gr

Blue Door Taverna offered fabulous food and superb views

Genevieve’s stroller was a lifesaver

Click on a sitter’s profile to read about their dog care experience, see photos of their home, and reviews from other dog owners.

So, whether you’re looking for a sitter to give one-on-one care, or hoping to find a sitter with a compatible furry playmate of their own, DogBuddy helps you find the perfect sitter based on your dog’s exact needs.

Whether it’s dog boarding, doggy day care or walking you’re looking for, DogBuddy means you’ll never be stuck without a dog sitter again.

There’s no doubt about it, owning a dog is a huge commitment.

But now it doesn’t have to mean giving up on the things you enjoy!

Whether it’s taking the trip of a lifetime or making time for a family day out, life can get busy. It’s not always possible to be around to give your dog the attention they need.

DogBuddy, a handy service available online or as an app, connects you with vetted and reliable dog sitters in your area, giving your family and four-legged friend the freedom to enjoy life.

Solving a real problem The story of DogBuddy’s creation is an all-too-familiar tale to anyone who has ever owned a dog. The company was founded in 2013 by entrepreneur Richard Setterwall after he struggled to find a sitter for his own dog.

Friends and family were unavailable, and he didn’t want to leave his dog in a kennel due to the stress it would cause. Realising that there are hundreds of willing dog sitters out there, Setterwall came up with a simple and efficient way of connecting dog owners and dog sitters. Since then, DogBuddy has grown into a community of more than half a million dog lovers across eight countries.

Reviewed by other dog owners The service is easy to use; simply enter your postcode and the dates you need help, and you’ll be shown a list of available sitters in your area.

DogBuddy also recommends you have a meet and greet before your booking to make sure everyone gets along. Plus, for added peace of mind whilst you’re away, your sitter can send photos, videos and tracked walks, so you know your dog is enjoying themselves in the safety of their sitter’s care. DogBuddy sitters also have access to a special 24/7 vet line, so if they suspect your dog is feeling under the weather, they can get expert advice straightaway.

- Kiri, DogBuddy customer

Trusted dog sitters Every sitter has to complete an assessment and create a profile that is then manually checked by DogBuddy. In fact, only 10% of applicants are approved, which ensures every sitter is of the highest quality.

So next time you’re off on a family holiday, or taking the kids on a weekend adventure, treat your dog to a comfortable and caring home from home with a DogBuddy sitter.

Find your perfect sitter at

TRAVEL

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TRAVEL

Take Jo Caird PROVIDE S H ER BE ST TIPS AN D TRICKS FOR H E ADING LONG-HAU L WITH BABY

ne of the best things about no longer being pregnant (aside from the wonderful new addition to your family, of course) is that there’s no need to worry about zika anymore. This means you’re free to explore far-flung destinations and take your little one on their first proper adventure.

O

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TRAVEL VACCINATIONS While the routine NHS infant vaccinations your baby receives at eight weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks and 12 months will protect them for travel within Europe and to other developed nations, more exotic destinations may require additional vaccines.

Some of these vaccines – such as those for typhoid and hepatitis, as well as common antimalarial medications – can only be given above a certain age or weight, so if you’re thinking of travelling to a high-risk area, you should talk to your GP or practice nurse before booking your trip.

Even if a destination you’re hoping to visit qualifies as high risk for a particular disease, you might still be able to take your baby depending on the type of trip you’re planning.

If you’re staying in an upmarket resort and unlikely to be spending lots of time with the local population, for example, your risks are greatly reduced, to the point when you might not need vaccinations at all. In destinations where malaria isn’t a risk, you’ll still need

baby-safe insect repellent and a mosquito net to cover your baby’s cot (and pram if you’ll be going out in the evening). There are plenty of universal-fit ones available online.

SURVIVING A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT Try to book the bulkhead row and a carrycot or child seat (depending on the age of your baby). This is often more straightforward to do over the phone rather than online, and you should reconfirm the booking before you fly.

If these seats aren’t available, and there are two of you travelling with your baby, book a window and aisle, in the hope that the middle seat will be left empty. This tactic often works, and even when it doesn’t, your neighbour is very likely to be willing to swap their middle seat for one of yours, so you end up sitting together anyway.

If money is no object, you might consider paying for a seat for your baby – you won’t regret having the extra space. Children under 12 usually pay around 75 per cent of full fare.

As with short-haul flights, pack a large supply of baby food, milk and snacks. This means you’ll be covered in case of delays and will have reserves to hand for the moments when nothing else is working to calm your baby down. Pack all your food into one bag and all your baby toys and books into another within your carry-on luggage, so everything

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TRAVEL

BEING OUTDOORS IN THE DAYTIME IS A GOOD IDEA, AS THE DAYLIGHT KICKS THE BODY CLOCK INTO LINE is easy to find whenever you need it.

Hope for the best but expect the worst: if you prepare yourself for your baby not sleeping for the entire flight, any naps they do take will feel like you’ve won the lottery.

JET LAG Once you get to your destination, you might find that your baby sleeps really well the first night because they’re exhausted from the journey, but they’re wakeful at night and grumpy in the daytime after that. Don’t worry, as it will pass in three or four days. Being easy on yourself during this period is crucial, so avoid attempting any ambitious adventures while you’re all exhausted.

Try to nap when your baby does, so you’ve got some back-up energy to cope with additional night-time wake-ups. Being outdoors in the daytime is a good idea, as the daylight helps kick the body clock into line. Try to keep your baby’s bedtime routine as close to what it is at home, so she knows on some level that it’s time to sleep even if her body is telling her the opposite.

Where to go…

Top travel spots that little ones will love

WHEN TO GO December to April is the best time to visit the Caribbean, with hurricane season over and the wet season yet to start. Expect temperatures of around 30°C year-round.

Temperatures in Indian Ocean destinations stay fairly constant, too – think lows of 26°C and highs of 30°C – but the Maldives get their best weather between December and April.

Any later in the year and you risk running into the monsoon.

The situation is similar in Thailand. Bali’s dry season coincides with British spring and summer, so head there in May, June or September to avoid the crowds. Temperatures in Bali dip to around 22°C at night all year, making it a more comfortable option for restless sleeping. In May, you can expect daytime highs of 28°C. To keep your baby cool, make sure they’re drinking plenty of fluids. Not all toddlers are big water-drinkers, so offer snacks like cucumber and watermelon. Air conditioning is a good idea if available, as hot weather can make napping more difficult.

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BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS, CARIBBEAN. The all-day creche accepts even the very youngest guests, or take your baby along for the ride as you explore this huge allinclusive resort, with its seven swimming pools (including a dedicated toddler pool), mini train and miles of beach. Rooms from £210 per night. beachesresorts.co.uk

TRAVEL

BABY’S HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS

NIYAMA PRIVATE ISLANDS, MALDIVES. The Explorers Kids’ Club at this luxury private island resort is the only one in the Maldives open to babies from 12 months. There’s an extensive programme of activities on offer, too, leaving you to hop from the sandy beach to the spa, or why not give watersports a try?

Rooms from £383 per night. niyama.com

Adjustable sun hat £16.65, twinklebelle.com Cotton romper £36, sunuva.com

iGuy iPad case £34.95, speckproducts.co.uk Roll-on sun cream £9.29, sunsense.co.uk Kiddylicious straws 70p, ocado.com Gaze out to glorious sunsets and ocean views from inside the resort’s exquisite wooden villas

DAJUMA BEACH ECORESORT AND SPA, BALI. This resort is very popular with families with young children, especially as it provides cots and high chairs. Garden-view cottages look out onto a delectable lawn for those moments when you’ve had enough of hanging out on the volcanic beach or splashing in the pools.

Rooms from £76 per night. dajuma.com

Tommee Tippee cup £2.19, superdrug.com

My First Peter Rabbit soft toy £15, johnlewis.com

UPF swim shorts £36, sunuva.com

Dear Zoo buggy book £5, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Deluxe Travel Centre and Travel Cot £89, nsauk.com

RUNNING HEAD Chewton Glen, Hampshire

The babymoon package at Chewton Glen in the New Forest has been specially created with parents-to-be in mind. Take advantage of the award-winning spa and leisure facilities, from the aromatherapy saunas and crystal steam rooms to the 17m indoor pool, and enjoy overnight accommodation in a room or suite of your choice. Don’t forget to indulge in a full English breakfast too. From £535 per night, chewtonglen.com

BABYMOON BREAKS LOOKING TO R EL A X BEFOR E YOU R BU N DLE OF JOY AR RIVE S? TH E SE PR E-BABY GE TAWAYS AR E SU R E TO HIT TH E SPOT, SAYS Natalie Keeler

The Egg Store, The Cotswolds

Based on Daylesford Farm in Gloucestershire, this charming bolthole for two is an idyllic place to unwind before baby arrives. Revel in the cosiness of your own cottage as you sit in front of a flat-screen TV by a burning log fire, or soak up some rays in the spacious shared courtyard garden when the weather is warm.

Upon arrival you’ll also find the cottage fully stocked with a selection of treats from the farm’s shop, including fresh bread and other delicious savoury goodies. From £1,215 for a weekend stay, daylesford.com

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TRAVEL The Balmoral, Scotland

In the market for some old-school glitz and glamour? The Balmoral in Edinburgh offers interesting history, lavish bedrooms, an awardwinning spa and an exquisite Michelin-starred restaurant. Its central position in the heart of the city puts attractions like the Scottish National Gallery and the Old Town within easy walking distance, but if you’d rather a quiet afternoon away from the crowds, enjoy a cup of tea in the hotel’s Palm Court or retreat to the spa for some “me” time. From £335 per night, roccofortehotels.com

Bedruthan Hotel, Cornwall

If the promise of fresh sea air, beautiful beaches and tantalising cuisine wasn’t enough to draw you to Cornwall, then this seaside retreat in Mawgan Porth, Newquay will certainly do the trick. Its beachfront location gifts sea views all around, even from inside the spa, where you’ll find a mind-blowing whirlpool overlooking the ocean. Enjoy a range of blissful pregnancy treatments, too.

From £140 per night, bedruthan.com

Chill out with a refreshing dip in Galgorm Resort & Spa’s gorgeous indoor pool

StarBed Hideaways, Devon

For a babymoon with a difference, why not give luxury glamping a go? These oakclad cabins offer absolute privacy, stunning interiors (complete with curved-glass skylights for bedtime stargazing) and easy access to some of Dartmoor’s best country walks.

Each hideaway also includes a king-sized bed draped in luxurious linen, an up-lit bath and a glowing wood-burning stove. And if that isn’t enough, maybe the thought of taking in the surrounding views from your seat on the radial deck will sway you. From £350 for two nights, starbedhideaways.co.uk

Galgorm Resort & Spa, Northern Ireland

With 163 acres of parkland and an array of sublime suites, nothing says indulgence quite like Galgorm Resort & Spa. Riverside hot tubs, pools and saunas are just some of the luxury spots where parents-to-be can unwind – and with a rustic pizzeria and the River Room restaurant on offer, there’s no shortage of tasty bites for dinnertime either. From £310 per night, galgorm.com

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NEXT ISSUE

IN THE OCTOBER ISSUE OF

Electra wears cotton blouse, from £19, Carrément Beau at House of Fraser.

Cotton dungarees, £49, Rachel Riley.

Model and mum, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley on the power of motherhood and how it shapes you How to make sure the upcoming clock change doesn’t affect your baby’s sleep Which foods can help you on your way to healing your post-baby body?

Expert advice on the top routines for sleep success Plus, party-planning advice from Carole Middleton, the latest new season pieces for baby’s wardrobe, interior inspiration for the nursery and beyond, and new product reviews!

ON SALE

�5 AUGUST 124 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Animals Observatory theanimalsobservatory.com Caramel caramel-shop.co.uk Carrément Beau houseoffraser.co.uk Cashmirino cashmirino.com Easy Peasy easypeasy.fr Emile et Ida emile-et-ida.fr Ikea ikea.com Ketiketa ketiketa.com/fr Little Creative Factory littlecreativefactory.com Louis Louise louislouise.com/fr Luna & Curious lunaandcurious.com Marie Chantal mariechantal.co.uk Marks & Spencer marksandspencer.com Olivier Baby & Kids olivierbaby.com Pepa & Co pepaandcompany.com Rachel Riley rachelriley.co.uk Young Soles youngsoles.co.uk Zara zara.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN; ISTOCK

STOCKISTS

education

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

EDUCATION

NEWS

EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW, IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM

COOL CODE

Education and entertainment app Hopster has launched Coding Safari, a free game for children as young as two, after computing pioneer Dame Stephanie Shirley suggested that young learners should be introduced to coding. While the game doesn’t teach any specific programming language, it does give foundations on which kids can learn to code. hopster.tv

If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector. The guide Guidecovers coverseach each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700.

The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for £5.95 in selected supermarkets and at all all good newsagents.

Coding Safari game Free, hopster.tv

TICKLING TALES Young readers who love a good giggle will be delighted to hear they can now vote for the book they think is the funniest, as part of the Laugh Out Loud Book Awards 2018. Created

by Scholastic UK, the awards aim to celebrate humorous books in children’s literature and there are three categories in the running.

Pupils, parents and teachers can vote online until 14 December. scholastic.co.uk/lollies

BON ANNIVERSAIRE!

Do you know a funny book that deserves an award?

Don’t miss your chance to vote!

Get the party poppers out – Club Petit Pierrot of London is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. The premier French club is best known for delivering innovative, stimulating programmes for children and babies as young as eight months old, giving them a head start with language. clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

ALMOST TWO THIRDS OF CHILDREN UNDER TWO REGULARLY USE TABLETS, WITH A THIRD ABLE TO OPEN APPS AND TURN ON DEVICES THEMSELVES. BUT MORE THAN HALF OF PARENTS LIMIT THE TIME THEIR CHILDREN SPEND ON DEVICES TO LESS THAN HALF AN HOUR PER DAY. PARENTSINSIGHTS.CO.UK

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BABY COMES FIRST

STRUGGLING TO DECIDE ON TH E BE ST CHILDCAR E FOR YOU R FAMILY ?

Georgina Blaskey WEIGH S U P TH E OP TION S

hen it comes to choosing a childcare option, there are several things you’ll need to consider. How many hours per day do you need cover? How many days per week? What’s your budget? With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, because we’ve explored the pros, cons and costs of each.

W

NANNIES AREN’T REQUIRED TO HOLD A CHILDCARE QUALIFICATION tailored care in a secure environment, and might be more flexible with drop-off times.

Cons: You may have to subsidise additional outings and you’ll need a back-up for sick days.

CHILDMINDERS Childminders are self-employed and usually take care of children within their own (rather than the child’s) home. Registered with Ofsted in England, they are inspected every two years and can look after six children under eight years old – three of these can be five or under, but only one can be under 12 months.

They must complete a local authorityapproved training course and also a 12-hour paediatric first aid course. Hours are agreed between the childminder and parents.

How much does it cost? On average it’s just under £200 per week for full-time care.

Pros: They are inspected regularly, can offer

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DAY NURSERIES Day nurseries offer care for children from six weeks old to around age four (when they start school). The number of children attending each one will vary but many have multiple rooms so they can separate kids by age. There are also different types to be aware of: private, community, local authority and workplace.

All are inspected by Ofsted and must abide by legally-set ratios for adults to children.

For babies aged five weeks to two years, nurseries must provide one carer to every three children; one adult is required for every four children aged two to three years, and for

children over three, one adult is needed for every eight kids (or every 13 if led by a teacher).

How much does it cost? Typically, a full-time day nursery is about £210 a week for a child younger than two, but prices can reach £280.

Pros: Staff are well qualified and nurseries are inspected every two to three years. They stay open during the holidays and are equipped to replace carers that call in sick. Also, there are lots of kids for your child to play with.

Cons: Drop-off and pick-up times are fixed and staff turnover can be high. Your child may not receive as much one-to-one care and may catch colds more easily around other kids.

NANNIES A nanny is employed by you to care for your child in your own home. Whether they live in or out is up to you.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Depending on your particular circumstance and the age of your child, a nanny may be responsible for all kinds of jobs, from feeding, bathing and dressing your child to changing their nappies or helping them use the toilet.

Some nannies are also expected to prepare meals, wash and iron clothes and bedclothes and plan activities like swimming, reading and interacting with other kids (for instance, arranging to visit a playgroup).

Be aware that nannies aren’t required to hold a childcare qualification, but many have some form of training, often from institutions like Norland Nannies (norland.co.uk).

How much does it cost? The average for a live-in nanny is around £300-350 per week and £400-£475 for live-out. You’re responsible for their tax and national insurance.

Pros: Hours are flexible, especially if you have a live-in nanny. Your children will enjoy being looked after in their own home and they may develop a strong bond with their nanny.

Cons: It’s the most expensive form of childcare and they’re not inspected unless

they’re registered. You will have to arrange back-up care if they get ill or go on holiday.

AU PAIR These are generally foreign students living in England to improve their English, and they live with you. You can expect them to help around the house and look after your children when needed, working about five hours per day, five days a week. However, due to their age and experience level, they’re not a suitable choice if your child is under two.

How much does it cost? You must provide a bedroom, meals, and “pocket money” for the au pair (£70-£120 per week). They are not classified as employees so they don’t need national insurance or tax.

Pros: The “big sibling” role can be beneficial to older children (au pairs tend to be 17 to 27 years old) and your child may enjoy the exposure to another language and culture.

Cons: They may lack experience and struggle to speak English. They’ll need time to attend college, which will affect their availability.

Need some help?

Koru Kids: Want a nanny but don’t need one full-time? Koru Kids has families across London willing to share their topclass nannies. It’s the perfect opportunity to give your child a friend to play with, and save a bit on the cost. korukids.co.uk Student Nannies: This clever model connects parents who need some cover during school holidays with local students who have plenty of time on their hands and fees to pay. Founder Tracey Blake calls Student Nannies “a win-win situation”. studentnannies.com KidSitter: A genius, London-based ondemand service with a network of more than 150 trusted childcare professionals available to babysit at any time, even on short notice. No membership or booking fee required. kidsitter.co.uk

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Boutiques BON TOT, SCOTLAND

Opened in 2014 by Kristina and Graham Currie, Bon Tot is home to a selective collection of kids’ clothing and toys, sourced from small brands all over the globe. The team is passionate about slow, sustainable fashion; instead of chasing seasons and trends, their focus is on the designer and slowbatch production, bringing customers the very best. As well as clothing, there’s a selection of toys, books and homeware from brands including Amy & Ivor, Bobo Choses and Olli Ella.

46 ST STEPHEN STREET, EDINBURGH EH3 5AL bon-tot.com

CROCODILE TOYSHOP, GLOUCESTERSHIRE A traditional independent toyshop that’s been around for over 30 years, Crocodile Toyshop stocks a wide selection of the latest toys on the market today – as well as some old favourites – including brands like Meccano, John Crane and Pintoy. Owner Mark Mitchell is always on hand to offer expertise and advice to clueless buyers, and, for fans of the humble brick, the shop houses one of the largest dedicated Lego rooms in the country.

4 THE WOOL MARKET, CIRENCESTER GL7 2PR crocodiletoys.com

TICKITTYBOO, OXFORDSHIRE

In the heart of the popular Cotswold town of Chipping Norton is children’s boutique Tickittyboo, which opened five years ago and has been drawing in shoppers from all over the region ever since.

The shop stocks its own brand exclusively designed by owner Julia Cook, as well as a whole host of other well-known names such as Hatley, Mayoral, Billybandit, Billieblush and Frugi. Colourful clothing and gifts for little ones from birth to 12 years old are available.

8 MIDDLE ROW, CHIPPING NORTON, OX7 5NH tickittyboo.myshopify.com

TOBY TIGER, EAST SUSSEX

When it comes to colourful, ethical and organic childrenswear, Toby Tiger has been leading the way since 1998. Instantly recognisable for its rainbow bright colour palette and friendly appliqués, its clothing range is suitable from newborn to age six. Everything is designed with a child’s view in mind, resulting in fun clothes bursting with personality. There are over 500 stockists around the world but only one boutique, which you can find in the vibrant North Laine area of Brighton.

11 GARDNER STREET, BRIGHTON BN1 1UP tobytiger.co.uk

LA COQUETA, LONDON

Inspired by the childhood of founder and mother of five Celia Munoz, La Coqueta’s collection faultlessly channels a sweeter, more old-fashioned part of the Spanish aesthetic. Timeless smock designs, ruffled collars, vintage-style frocks and delicate pointelle knits are given a contemporary twist with fresh cuts, rich colours and modern prints – and everything, from the fabrics and designs to the methods of production can be traced by to a Spanish family-run business.

STORES ACROSS LONDON lacoquetakids.com

NATURAL BABY SHOWER, SURREY

When her son Dylan was born, Victoria Hampson noticed a lack of ethical baby products on the market and was inspired to set up Natural Baby Shower. Nowadays her established store brings together high quality, natural, meticulously-researched parenting products, from baby carriers and buggies to skincare solutions and sleeping bags. Many of the items for sale are from small, familyrun businesses, and all are offered at the best prices.

WINDLEBROOK HOUSE, 55 GUILDFORD ROAD, BAGSHOT GU19 5NG naturalbabyshower.co.uk

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Boutiques PAPOUELLI, LONDON

Head to Papouelli for truly beautiful, timeless shoes just for your little one. Fitting and foot health is of the highest importance to the team, and staff will size up your child’s feet using their professional system. Sizing ranges from 16 in baby shoes, through to child and then teenage sizes.

More recently, the founders Maggie and Nicole have added a selection of clothing and accessories to their shops, so now shoppers can walk away with a whole new outfit too.

STORES ACROSS LONDON papouelli.com

TOYVILLE, BRISTOL

New to the Bristol shopping scene is Toyville, which officially opened its doors in October 2016.

The independent toy shop in Bedminster is a family business, run by Lindsay and Joel and – sometimes – their son Xander. They only stock toys that they would buy themselves as parents, offering a brand identity and collection of products that appeals to both the child and the buying adult. Choose from both traditional toys and new arrivals that are set to be future classics.

20 NORTH STREET, BRISTOL BS3 1HW toyvilleshop.co.uk

BIRDKIDS, CORNWALL

Nestled in the seaside village of Fowey in Cornwall, Birdkids is, as the name suggests, inspired by the wonders of nature. Founded by Jane Bird over a decade ago, here you can shop from an everevolving selection of clothes, toys and gifts for children. Browse its eclectic mix of products and you’ll find animals, butterflies, bugs, birds and flowers just about everywhere. We especially love the sweet animal towels from Liewood and the aquatic soft toys from Wild Republic.

3 CUSTOM HOUSE HILL, FOWEY PL23 1AA birdkids.co.uk

WILD & GORGEOUS, LONDON

Designing for both girls and boys from newborn to age 15, Wild & Gorgeous has proven a hit with families worldwide. Luckily for London parents, the brand’s flagship store is located in the heart of bustling Notting Hill, and there’s a second boutique nestled in Primrose Hill too. Ponder through the beautiful clothes and accessories to your heart’s content, admiring the unique, playful and imaginative designs. And as a supporter of several children’s charities, every penny is well spent.

STORES ACROSS LONDON wildandgorgeous.co.uk

SISTERS GUILD, SOMERSET

As the name might suggest, Sisters Guild is run by siblings Carla and Bekka in the picturesque town of Frome in Somerset. Set on a pretty, cobbled hill, the shop is a treat for the eyes, with a plethora of beautiful design-led products available to purchase, from kids’ clothing to bits for mum, decor and nursery furniture. Brands include well-known names such as Meri Meri and Oeuf NYC, as well as newer labels like Sleepy Doe. 32 CATHERINE HILL, FROME BA11 1BY sistersguild.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ©2018GOOGLE

MILKSHAKE BOUTIQUE, CHESHIRE

Independent children’s shop Milkshake Boutique offers a range of brands for little ones from newborn up to 14 years of age. First opened just two years ago by Tors Nichols and Jacquie Swede – both experienced in the retail industry and parents to three young children between them – the store stocks designer labels such as Kenzo and Ralph Lauren, alongside cool contemporary outfitters like Molo and Billiebandit.

59 ALDERLEY ROAD, WILMSLOW SK9 1NZ milkshakeboutique.com

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BUSINESS

Jessie’s beautiful Brighton store has been a huge success after opening its doors two years ago

Jessie gives each store her full attention, from picking the location to sourcing furniture

INSPIRE What’s the story behind Happyology?

I was born and raised in Ningbo in China, where my parents had a business making childrenswear.

As a little girl I always had quality clothes to wear, and would play among the fabric piles and run through the sample room as if it was my own wardrobe.

But the real drive was my little sister, who is now eight. I always love dressing her up, but here in the UK it was difficult to find quality, beautiful, affordable and not-so-high-street childrenswear.

Not long after I’d graduated with a master’s degree in engineering in 2014, I moved back to my family house in Brighton and opened up my own design studio.

I spent 2015 setting up our factory in Ningbo, and when in Brighton, I organised my technical team, office and design studio while designing and sampling my first collection. I opened my first shop in Leamington Spa in December 2016, then a second shop in Brighton in April 2016, and finally launched our website in spring 2016. As soon as we opened our first shop, people seemed to love our design concept and were

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JESSIE GAO The founder and creative director of Happyology talks family life and the secrets behind her growing business so amazed by our quality and affordability. The popularity of the brand has been since spread both locally and internationally.

Describe a typical day for you.

My colleagues always say I am too busy! Due to time difference, I always start my day early and speak with our factory to check on production and address any outstanding issues. I then check emails and deal with daily matters.

I usually design in the evenings, when I can focus properly.

Do you have a favourite Happyology shop, and why?

It’s hard to pick one shop as each one means so much to me. Every project receives my full attention, from picking a location, to designing, sourcing furniture and going through the fitting process.

Any advice for anyone wanting to start their own business?

Have determination and persistence! In the initial stages you may have times when you want to give up, but you have push yourself, learn from mistakes and embrace all obstacles.

What has been your proudest moment since setting up?

I love encountering happy customers, whether it’s in store or online. I very rarely work in the shop these days, but I still try to squeeze some time in as

The Happyology store in Bath opened late last year

I love meeting people face to face and being able to hear first-hand feedback from them. It’s good to know what we’re doing right and what can be improved.

If you could open another store, where would it be?

We have plans to expand both nationally and internationally.

Next in our sights is Singapore, which will be opening in August this year and is where my parents and sister currently live. After that, I have Japan and China on my list. In the UK, we’re aiming to open further shops in towns and cities such as Cambridge and York, where I’ve lived previously.

What are your plans for the rest of the year?

We’re very excited to launch our AW18 collection in early September! This includes our special Mummy & Me range, which features a couple of maternity and ladies’ styles. We’ve also just completed the design and sampling for SS19, and the factory in Ningbo will be starting the production on this soon. happyology.uk

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A luxury children’s footwear brand with an award-winning collection of lightweight shoes, sandals and boots for both boys and girls from baby to toddler to junior.

YO U N G S O L E S . C O. U K

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Photography by Emma Donnelly.