b b SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2017
WIN!
COSI A MAXI-& MORE T C AR S E A
WOR£T7H00 OVER SEE INSID
E FOR DE
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Bring it on
IS IT TIME TO BE INDUCED?
Tiny tasters
BABYSURREY.CO.UK
BABY’S NEW WARDROBE The cutest looks for autumn
Fearne Cotton
on motherhood and the joys of baby yoga
Play it safe
What can you take during pregnancy?
WAITING GAME How to cope when you are overdue
Delicious recipes for weaning babies
HEALTH and happiness £2.99
• STAY HEALTHY THROUGH PREGNANCY • BREASTFEEDING ADVICE FROM CLARE BYAM-COOK • ESSENTIAL KIT TRIED AND TESTED
bugaboo atelier collection our modern classic
we love to create key features: • stone mélange fabric • leather-look details • hand-stitched leather-look handlebar and carry handle • black chassis • coordinating black quilted seat inlay
limited edition 2017 The Atelier Collection is available for the Bugaboo Cameleon³ and Bugaboo Buffalo. learn more at www.bugaboo.com © Copyright 2017 Bugaboo® International BV
bugaboo atelier collection our modern classic Bugaboo introduces the Atelier Collection, a limited edition design for the Bugaboo Cameleon3 and Bugaboo Buffalo. By using a stone mélange fabric and black leather-look trim, our designers have cleverly added another dimension to the contours of the pushchair.
Stone mélange fabric crafted from Bugaboo’s in-house design studio
Hand-stitched detailing and leather-look materials.
Coordinate in style with matching footmuff.
from concept to creation The Atelier Collection showcases the craftsmanship of our in-house design studio, which has been producing fashionforward pushchairs for over 15 years.
measure twice, cut once Quality is of the utmost importance, so there is painstaking attention to every detail. Our designers uphold the highest standards in order to please the most critical eyes.
FREE CHILD PLACES
family skiing at its best
2017-18
• EXCLUSIVE À La Carte Childcare 0 -12 years all in your own beautiful chalet. No snowy trudge to a central crèche: just pop on your skis and leave the rest to us • Superb ski schools and exhilarating activities for children of all ages • Fabulous catered chalets in world class ski areas offering hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, boot warmers and even cinema rooms! • Nationwide flights, Eurostar from London direct to the Alps
skifamille.co.uk | 01252 759069 Ski Famille | Pearson Court | 1 Kings Road | Fleet | Hampshire | GU51 3DL
ATOL 10863
ABTOT 5141
CONTENTS
b b Editor-in-Chief Kate Freud Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Features Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West Publisher Caroline Scott Finance Director Vicki Gavin Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Chatty Dobson, Ginny Maclean Head of Market Samantha Howard Sales Executive Harriet Cottrell Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby Surrey is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: editorial@littlemedia.co.uk
Baby Surrey Print ISSN 1757-6156 Online ISSN 2059-9838 | 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 2017 All rights reserved
SUBSCRIBE Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive Baby Surrey magazine for a year, delivered straight to your door, all for just £18. Plus, we’ll send you a £20 JoJo Maman Bébé gift voucher absolutely FREE! Simply visit:
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Back Issues chelseamagazines.com/shop
SEP TEM BER /OC TOBER 2017
FEATURES
27 LITTLE LONDON AWARDS 2017 They’re back and bigger than ever – vote now, and you could win a luxury holiday! 30 COTTON TALES Fearne Cotton on family, writing books and the pressure to be a perfect mother 41 TOT GEAR Yvadney Davis takes the Cybex Mios out on the road – plus, the latest kit news 44 THE WAITING GAME How to maintain your sanity when your due date passes 48 BRING IT ON… A run down of everything you can expect when you’re being induced 50 ROCK-A-BYE BABY Are they – and you – getting enough sleep? Here’s how to avoid setbacks 60 BEAT THOSE POTTY TRAINING PITFALLS Ensure you’re well-prepared and you’ll ace your toddler’s transition 64 WHOLESOME & HEARTY From veggie yoghurts to savoury muffins, dive into these family recipes to give baby a variety of tastes and textures 72 FIRST-DAY NERVES Ensure the leap from nursery to school is a smooth one
STYLE
17
SHOP THE COLOURS Blues to greens to powder pink – just pick your palette 32 GOLDEN HOUR Take it back to basics with the sweetest cream and metallic tones
REGULARS
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN
9
PHOTOGRAPHER: HELEN MARSDEN MODEL: WILLOW Willow wears cardigan, £45, Wild & Gorgeous. Blouse, £14, and shorts, £18, Marie-Chantal for Marks & Spencer. Turban, £30, Lili Gaufrette at Childrensalon.
BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know 15 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY What’s hot in Hampshire over the next two months 24 PEEK THROUGH The best lift-the-flap books for baby 39 PARTY TIME: NAMING DAY Carole Middleton’s tips for celebrating your new arrival
Willow wears cashmere babygrow, £125, Oscar et Valentine. Wool shawl, £69.95, G.H Hurt & Son.
32 47 DIARY OF A MUM Martha Alexander tackles new heights as she takes baby Robin on her first holiday 53 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ This issue we ask, could your baby be using you as a dummy? 54 MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals 56 TIME TO TALK In this two-page special, The Bump Class demystifies the medications you can take during pregnancy 58 THE REVIEW Baby monitors tried and tested 63 FOOD NEWS The latest offerings for busy families 69 DIARY OF A NIGHT NANNY Georgie Bateman is on hand to help a new family with sleep issues 71 EDUCATION NEWS All you need to know from the classroom 74 MEET THE HEAD Behind the scenes at Sutton High Junior School for girls 77 MINI AGENDA What’s on in the county throughout September and October 82 INSPIRE Talking business with Christina Moss and Julia Yule of Bloom and Blossom
39
Carole Middleton shares her gift and party ideas for naming day celebrations
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 5
Third Floor
From beautiful gifts to the top pushchair brands, Bentalls Kingston’s Nursery Department on the Third Floor has everything you will need for your new arrival. Choosing the perfect pram or nursery accessory to suit your daily needs and lifestyle can sometimes be tricky. Let us do the hard work for you. First, it’s the NEW Geo2 from Joolz. Featuring an adjustable handlebar, super smooth onepiece fold and an extra-large shopping basket. Secondly, the beautifully-finished Silver Cross Wave has 15 different combinations of carrycot, carriers and seating – we love the claret colourway. And finally, the BabyBjorn One Carrier is soft with an airy mesh fabric, perfect for carrying your newborn in the most comfortable way. To see a demonstration of any of these prams or nursery accessories, please visit our experts on the Third Floor.
Joolz
Silver Cross
BabyBjorn
You are invited to MEET THE NURSERY EXPERTS on Saturday 9 September, from 10am - 4pm Up to 20% OFF selected Prams and Nursery Accessories and up to 15% OFF selected Nursery Furniture 10% OFF selected Babywear
020 8546 1001
We’re totally in love with the new shoe designs from German label Birds of Nature Leather booties £52, birdsofnature.com Elephant soft toy £22, jellycat.com
EDITORS
LETTER
We’d love to hear what you think about our latest issue
BabySurrey
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P-TO-DAT ISIT • E, V
Organic cotton trousers £12.99, hm.com
KATE FREUD, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
• B A BY
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
Billybandit shirt £40, alexandalexa.com
K
Carrément Beau pram shoes £29, childrensalon.com
Christina Moss and Julia Yule, the dynamic sister-in-laws behind beautiful baby skincare brand Bloom and Blossom (p.82). We have plenty of tips to help women who are overdue cope with the frustration (p.44), and if baby is stubbornly staying put, the Portland Hospital’s consultant obstetrician Dr Asma Khalil explains the process of induction (p.48). And the brilliant Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt from The Bump Class give us a comprehensive guide about which medication is and isn’t safe to take during pregnancy (p.56). Finally, we cherry pick the cheeriest autumn buys for baby (p.17), review the best baby monitors so you don’t have to (p.58) and have delicious recipes from Piccolo for weaning your little ones (p.64). And last but by no means least, don’t forget to enter our Little London Awards for a chance to win yourself a five-star holiday to the Maldives. Enjoy!
KEE
Leather weekend bag £800, eddieharrop.com
I like to imagine that, come September, we’ll find ourselves enveloped in the balmy warmth of an Indian summer, but knowing the British weather as we do, it’s nothing if not full of surprises. So, whatever the forecast, one thing we can be sure of is that September heralds the start of a new school term for big brothers and sisters, and plenty of new and fun activities for baby to enjoy in our Mini Agenda (p.77). It might also prove the perfect time to beat all of baby’s sleep setbacks with Louise Pyne’s helpful tips (p.50). As the nights draw in, we’re ever hopeful that baby’s sleep will improve too! And while we’re running through the todo list, breastfeeding expert Clare Byam-Cook explains what to do if your baby always falls asleep on the boob after a feed (p.53). And for those facing the onerous task of potty training their toddler, our guide makes the whole process easier (p.60). On a more glamorous note, this issue we were lucky enough to interview the gorgeous Fearne Cotton who, on the release of her latest book, Yoga Babies, tells us how motherhood and writing have become her greatest pleasures (p.30). We also meet
R E Y.C O
.U
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 7
baby
NEWS
NEWS
U PDATING YOU ON ALL THINGS GR E AT AN D SMALL
EARTH MOTHER
O-DATE, V P-T
O.
A • B
BY
UK
• ISIT
KEEP U
Tilly + Cub’s artisan baskets are designed to stay in your family for generations
Tilly + Cub’s charming moses baskets are hand woven by women in Ghana, where each one is crafted in four days using elephant grass and natural dyes. Set up by local mum Jo Harris, the company donates money from each sale to her chosen charities, including Afrikids, which works with children in West Africa. It may be new, but Tilly + Cub’s first range sold out in a matter of days, so keep your eyes peeled for the next product drop! £125, tillyandcub.com
.C SU RREY
CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES IS TACKLING PRAM JAMS HEAD ON WITH ITS NEW DEDICATED BUGGY LANE. DESIGNED TO BE USED BY PARENTS WITH PUSHCHAIRS DURING PEAK TIMES, THE BESPOKE 100M LANE RUNS FROM WILD WOODS TO THE PARK’S NEWEST TODDLER ATTRACTION, THE GRUFFALO RIVER RIDE ADVENTURE. CHESSINGTON.COM
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 9
NEWS
SLEEP EVE-N BETTER
The geniuses behind the renowned Eve mattress have introduced a new version for baby. Made from premium materials with exceptional breathability, the design features supportive pocket springs, an added foam layer and a waterproof panel to protect against leaks. We can’t guarantee your little one will sleep through the night, but with this mattress, we reckon the odds are in your favour. Available in two sizes. From £125, evemattress.co.uk
OPEN FOR BUSINESS WIN AN ORGANIC BABY SKINCARE PACKAGE To celebrate the launch of the Harry & Rose organic baby skincare range at The Conscious Parent Company, the online retailer is giving away luxury Harry & Rose goodies, worth more than £50. The prize package includes a Baby Bath Gift Set, a Baby Skincare Gift Set and two bottles of soothing Nappy Spray. Formulated from gentle, natural ingredients and dermatologically tested, this innovative range will leave your little one’s skin hydrated, nurtured and baby soft. theconsciousparent.co.uk. To enter, visit babysurrey.co.uk/competitions
Nurturing Mums, the company which hosts postnatal courses across London, has relaunched its online store. From 1 September, you can shop a new selection of artisan brands, from nursery gear and baby clothing to treats for mum. nurturingmumsuk.com
SENSORY SOOTHER From nursing to swaddling, the humble muslin is most definitely a nursery necessity – but what if it could also help baby’s development? Each sensory muslin from Etta Loves is adorned with stimulating patterns, with the range split into two age groups for optimal effectiveness. From £19, ettaloves.com
NATURAL BABY SHOWER IN BAGSHOT HAS BEEN UNDERGOING A TRANSFORMATION. THE SHOWROOM HAS EXPANDED TO ALMOST THREE TIMES THE SIZE, WITH MORE ROOM FOR PARENTS TO ROAD-TEST A HUGE RANGE OF BRANDS. THERE’S A NEW FUNCTION SPACE WHICH WILL HOST BABY AND TODDLER CLASSES, TOO. NATURALBABYSHOWER.CO.UK
10 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
The Silver Cross Avia makes it into entalls to fi e nu se u s this season
GET SET, SHOP!
Head to Bentalls in Kingston on Saturday 9 September for a special parenting event on its third floor, where shoppers can enjoy selected discounts and experts will be on hand to talk all things baby.
WEAR YOUR WORDS
THE TOP FIVE BUYS
Selfish Mother’s range of cult slogan tees and sweaters have been joined by a line of bright, oversized vests. This is a chance to really let the world know how you feel, whether it’s ‘love’, ‘solidarity’ or that you’re, quite simply, ‘winging it’. With each sale, £7 is donated to Selfish Mother’s chosen charities, including War Child and Help Refugees. £25, thefmlystore.com
Lena Omo, Bentalls’ nursery department buyer, shares her picks.
WIN ONE OF 12 SOPHIE LA GIRAFE TEETHING RING SETS WITH METANIUM Metanium is giving away 12 prize packs, all featuring a Sophie la Girafe So Pure Teething Ring and a 60ml Metanium Everyday Easy Spray, worth £15 each. Sophie is perfect for little hands to hold and ideal to help soothe your baby’s painful gums. Double-action Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion forms a barrier to protect delicate skin from irritants like urine and poo that can cause nappy rash. Two sprays are enough to form a protective layer. Pat around the area to maximise coverage – no need to rub in. metanium.co.uk; sophielagirafe.co.uk. To enter, visit babysurrey.co.uk/competitions
SILVER CROSS AVIA This super-lightweight pushchair weighs just 5.5kg, and as it is inspired by British tailoring, it’s quite the looker, too. YOYO BABYZEN The YoYo is the first folding buggy to comply with cabin luggage restrictions, making it ideal for travel. THE SNÜZPOD The Snüzpod 3-in-1 bedside crib has a zip-down mesh for easy access, as well as a lift-on bassinet, making it easy to move around the home. There’s also a rocking stand for soothing to sleep. SLEEPYHEAD DELUXE POD Ideal for lounging, playing and resting, this cosy and cool Swedish piece of kit is lightweight enough to take just about anywhere. SKIPHOP STROLLER ORGANISER AND BOTTLE BAG Keep all your essentials in one place with this machine-washable organiser bag and insulated bottle warmer.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 11
+44 (0)1978 664362
www.hauckuk.com
info@hauckuk.com
b b
Christabel PHOTOGRAPHED BY BOGGIO STUDIOS
One-year-old Christabel is full of giggles and always on the lookout for the next adventure! She lives with her parents, Camilla and Ed, her sister
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 13
RUNNING HEAD
The Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus can be used from birth up to 12 months
WIN!
A QUINNY PUSHCHAIR AND MAXI-COSI CAR SEAT S
ummer may be fading out, but strolls with your baby needn’t become dull. The latest collection from Quinny – the Zapp X – is about adapting to your little one’s everchanging needs. With one iconic frame, the designs offer several travelling solutions, suitable from birth to when your child is able to walk their own way. To celebrate the launch, Quinny is offering readers the chance to win a Zapp Flex Plus, worth £335, complete with MaxiCosi Pebble Plus car seat (£199) and a Maxi-Cosi 2wayFix Base (£199), ensuring you’re ready for any adventure as soon as your baby arrives.
A functional and stylish option for parents, the high-end finish of the Zapp Flex Plus is thanks to the use of premium materials inspired by the latest athleisure trend, making it lightweight, water-resistant and breathable. Matching its sporty look, the addition of the Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus offers parents a complete travel system that can be used from birth – all it takes is a few clicks to switch, and folding is a doddle, too. The winner will get to choose a colour – will you mix and match with graphite and blush, or keep it simple with one block colour? Good luck! bs
WORTH £733
To enter, visit babysurrey.co.uk/competitions COMPETITION CLOSES 11:59PM ON 12 OCTOBER 2017. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT QUINNY.COM
14 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
NEW COLLECTION
Prints charming
SEPTEMBER
This September, our friends over at Aden + Anais are launching three new print designs; Bird Song, Dream Ride and Wild Horses. The prints are available as swaddles, muslins, bibs and blankets – a dreamy companion for baby through the autumn months. From £8, adenandanais.co.uk
1 RAIN READY!
Today Bugaboo launches a high-performance raincover to fit all its strollers, so we can be prepared for whatever the weather has to throw at us this autumn! £52.95, bugaboo.com
9 BIG BABY BUYS Head to the third floor of Bentalls in Kingston today, where you’ll be able to enjoy up to 20% off selected pushchairs and accessories, and up to 15% off nursery furniture. Plus, there will be experts on hand to answer any questions. 10am to 4pm, bentalls.co.uk
14 MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT
Today is the last day to have your say in our Little London Awards! Now in its third year, don’t miss your chance to vote for your favourite brands, and you could win a holiday to the luxury Kurumba family resort in the Maldives. littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/ awards
dates for your
DIARY
My First Book of Patterns £12.95, Phaidon
Pens at the ready, we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy for the next two months
16 BIRTHDAY
OCTOBER
Entertainment hub The Lightbox is turning 10 this month and to celebrate, it is opening its doors for a familyfriendly birthday party. All the galleries will be free for today only, and the afternoon will see activities galore. 10.30am to 5pm, thelightbox.org.uk
2 BRA-ILLIANT!
BONANZA
18 SHAPE
SHIFTERS
WHAT’S NEW
Family fashion As the ‘mini me’ trend grows, September sees the launch of Envie de Fraise’s AW17 Family Collection, aimed at expectant mothers, nursing mothers and beyond, with matching styles for kids up to six. Dads can get matching tees, too! enviedefraise.co.uk
Stella McCartney gives creepy a cool twist with this fringed number Cotton top £36, childrensalon.com
Explore polka dots, plaid, stripes, chevron and more with the My First Book of Patterns board book, available today. This artisic introduction to patterns is the creation of two Montessori educators, Bobby and June George. £12.95, phaidon.com
Looking for the perfect nursing bra? The new Body Silk seamless nursing bra from Bravado combines comfort and style, and goes on-sale in John Lewis stores today.
5 BOUNCE, BABY
BabyBjörn adds new designs to its Bouncer Bliss range this month. Say hi to the Bouncer Bliss Cotton, with pure cotton cover and soft grey frame. From £144.99, babybjorn.co.uk
Bravado Designs seamless bra £30, johnlewis.com
6 SHOW TIME
Taking place at Sandown Park in Esher, the Baby & Toddler Show is a three-day event for new and expectant parents that combines top brands, fab shopping opportunities and plenty of expert advice. babyandtoddlershow.co.uk
12 WIN BIG!
Today’s your last chance to win prizes at babysurrey. co.uk/competitions
31 HAPPY
HALLOWEEN
It’s the spookiest time of the year, so make sure your little pumpkin looks the part. We love Stella McCartney's wicked offerings. stellamccartney.com
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 15
Over 150 of the finest brands
Sandown Park 6-8 October
VIP TICKETS PACKAG WITH BA E LONDO BY N
FREENG I PARK
Amazing shopping and expert advice for new and expectant parents to give their baby the best start
Save 1/3 on tickets, quote SEB23 at babyandtoddlershow.co.uk Expert Advice Workshops | Baby First Aid Seminars | Baby Carrier Trial Baby Feeding Area | Baby Changing Area Offer closes 5 October 2017. Standard adult tickets £12, children under 16 do not require tickets. Booking fees not included. Show content subject to change.
Cotton cardigan £40, lucyandbelle.com
Ralph Lauren cotton babygrow £59, chocolateclothing.co.uk
From a selection scandiborn.co.uk
Cashmere booties £67, bonpoint.com
Merino wool dungarees £59, mabli.co.uk
Cotton musical mobile £24, fermliving.com
BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One £134.99, johnlewis.com
Cotton dress £52, cocoandwolf.com
SING THE BLUES
A host of indigo and dove grey tones adds a cool and calming touch to baby’s nursery. Pair with white for a softer feel
Charlie Crane Levo baby rocker £184.95, scandiborn.co.uk
Changing mat £6.50, mothercare.com
Cotton blouse £39, olivierbaby.com Livly cotton hat £11, alexandalexa.com Cotton bodysuit £66, lacoqueta.com
Baghera pedal car £162.54, en.smallable.com
Mayoral pram shoes £13, childrensalon.com
SHOPPING
OYOY cotton cushion £35, decobaby.co.uk
Plastic bowl £7.50, buddyandbear.com
Corduroy dress £19, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
Cotton t-shirt £29, wildandgorgeous.co.uk
From a selection next.co.uk
Chloé dress £124, childrensalon.com
Billieblush babygrow £29, childrensalon.com
EARTH ANGELS
Polka Dot Club teddy bear £120, rosesandthestars.com
Merino sleeping bag £75, merinokids.co.uk
Baby’s wardrobe gets the green light with a painterly palette of verdant hues
Bugaboo Cameleon3 Kite travel system £1,049, johnlewis.com
Leather moccasins £42, amyandivor.com
Aden + Anais muslin swaddles set £39, alexandalexa.com
Knitted cotton romper £56, benedita.co.uk 18 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
Billybandit trousers £27, littlegiantedit.com
WE ARE FAMILY Have fun with your nearest and dearest, yet still have some grown-up time for yourselves. We offer our guests an unstuffy mix of elegant yet comfortable interiors, fantastic seasonal food, pampering spa treatments, extensive gardens and even a complimentary crèche. Bliss!
0844 482 2152 LUXURYFAMILYHOTELS.CO.UK
Search for us socially
The Ickworth Suffolk | Fowey Hall Cornwall | Moonfleet Manor Dorset Woolley Grange Wiltshire | New Park Manor Hampshire | Polurrian Bay Cornwall
SHOPPING
Lambskin gilet £260, bonpoint.com Wool felt mobile £35, hedgehogshop.co.uk Linen romper £49, mabokids.com
Kalon wooden dresser £1,330, lullabuy.co.uk
Cotton leggings £18, ministylin.com
Suede shoes £48.99, alexandroskids.com
From a selection at Smile by Julien Macdonald mothercare.com
SUPER
Laranjinha cotton top and shorts £52, childrensalon.com
Wooden stacking toy £12.50, decobaby.co.uk Micuna OVO high chair £297.95, scandiborn.co.uk
Djeco wooden rattle £7.50, babyme.com
Rattan tray £36, kalinko.com Sheepskin bear £30, whiterabbitengland.com Cotton bodysuit £16.50, petit-bateau.co.uk Cotton muslin bibs (pack of two) £29, camomile.london
Cashmere blanket £120, olivierbaby.com
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 21
SHOPPING
By Heritage organic blanket £65, decobaby.co.uk Knitted cotton crown £20, angels-face.co.uk
Chloé gilet £112, childrensalon.com
Sebra cot bed £699, nubie.co.uk
Cotton dungarees £39.50, dottydungarees.com
From a selection stellamccartney.com
Jellycat soft toy £28, alexandalexa.com
Nobodinoz cotton sleeping bag £45, nubie.co.uk
BLUSH
Cotton dress and bloomers set £68, lacoquetakids.com
From pastel to peachy to bubblegum, these
Cotton bib £36, bonpoint.com
Elodie Details play mat £71, alexandalexa.com
Cotton hat £26, lacoquetakids.com
Carrément Beau leather pram shoes £29, childrensalon.com Cam Cam Copenhagen organic cotton blanket £55, mamaowl.net Olivier Baby & Kids cashmere cardigan £59, rosesandthestars.com
22 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
Wheat tulle skirt £25, johnlewis.com
20-22 October
Olympia London
Everything You Need For Bump, Baby & You
Book Now
Exclusive Offers
Leading & Boutique Brands
Expert Advice
Advance Ticket Offer Book Tickets Now & Save Over 30% - Quote BSURREY thebabyshow.co.uk
Official Charity
TM
* Saving is based on the standard on-the-door ticket price of £20. To book by phone call 0871 231 0844. Calls cost 10p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Advance Box Office closes midnight 19/10/2017. £2.20 transaction fee applies per booking.
PEEK
through Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P TH E BE ST LIF T-TH E-FL AP BOOKS FOR BABY
KIKI AND BOBO’S SUPER SURPRISE By Yasmeen Ismail
Juicy technicolour illustrations bring Kiki and Bobo to life as they plan a secret surprise party. The clever flap details create an immersive and fun-filled read for toddlers. £10.99, Walker Books
BOOKS
Discover a whole host of Egyptian animals while you look for mummy…
CAN YOU SAY IT TOO? GROWL! GROWL! By Sebastien Braun
Parents and children alike will delight in mimicking the sounds of the jungle as you get to know all creatures great and small. A fun robust book for the very young. £5.99, Nosy Crow
NO, NANCY, NO! By Alice Tait
Nancy tries to reunite a lost teddy with its owners in this mischieffilled romp across London. A deliciously stylish and beautifully illustrated storybook. £12.99, Walker Books
THIS WAY, THAT WAY By Antonio Ladrillo
Create your own stories with
this clever wordless flip-and-fold book. Bold jolly shapes interact with each other and the reader in this fun book-sharing experience. £7.99, Tate Publishing
OPPOSITE THINGS By Anna Kövecses
Little Mouse encourages young readers to lift the flaps and learn about opposites. Simple, stylised illustrations and familiar images will make this a big hit with babies. £5.99, Wide Eyed Editions
HIDDEN ANIMALS By Agnese Baruzzi
Colourful geometric patterns reveal hidden animal surprises through the use of peek-through holes. Little ones will delight in the transformations, which also
promote shape recognition. £6.99, Templar Publishing
experience for little hands. £6.99, Nosy Crow
MUMMY!
LITTLE HAZELNUT
By Lerryn Korda Help a young Egyptian girl find her mummy, who is hidden somewhere in the story. Filled with easy-to-lift flaps and fun historical facts, it’s the perfect mix of educational content, interactivity and story-telling. £5.99, Nosy Crow x The British Museum
WHERE’S MRS LADYBIRD?
By Ingela P. Arrhenius Explore a beautiful garden and find new friends along the way, hidden under the soft felt flaps. A stylish and satisfying reading
By Anne-Florence Lemasson and Domenique Ehrhard An exquisite first pop-up book for all ages. The poetic story features delightful birds, cats and plants. This would make a beautiful christening or first birthday gift. £10.99, Old Barn Books
FLIP FLAP OCEAN By Axel Scheffler
Take the first steps into independent reading with this whimsical exploration of creatures from the sea. Little ones will have hours of fun mixing and matching the familiar faces. £8.99, Nosy Crow
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 25
As seen on
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0-6+ Months
Breathable Mesh Cover
Available in Three Colours
Drea
Stand has Two Positions Hypo-allergenic Ventilated Base
Foam Backrest for Comfort and Warmth
0-12+ Months
Bum Bump™ for Support
Elevated to Help with Reflux
From Newborn
To find out about our other products, Check out our website To contact us, email hello@shnuggle.co.uk
Includ
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mi B as Mesh e with B r Quilt Cover, C eathable o Ma sy Curv ttress & e St and
Comfy and Warm Material
Raised Sides for Safety
Celebrating the best in children’s brands, the
2017
ARE BACK! PHOTOGRAPHY: SAM CHURCHILL
Turn over to discover all the brilliant nominees…
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babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 27
LITTLE LONDON AWARDS
I Last year’s judges get ready to make their choices for the four special categories
t’s that time of year again, when the great and good of the pregnancy, baby and children’s industry come together to applaud all they have achieved over the last year, and you – our loyal readers – get to choose who you’d like to see win at our Little London Awards 2017. Whether you are pregnant, a first-time mother or already have little ones approaching their tweens, we all have those can’t-live-without products that make parenting life that little bit easier. It might be the pregnancy pillow that’s helping you sleep at night, the handbag-friendly baby wipes that have saved you from many a food explosion, or the fail-safe buggy that makes navigating tubes and buses a breeze – whatever you’re thankful for, you can show your favourite brands just how much you love them by voting for them in this year’s awards. Plus, when you do, we’ll automatically enter you into our draw to win a luxury family holiday to the Maldives. With 22 categories, four of the winners of these will be chosen by our expert judging panel, and all the winners will be announced in a special ceremony later this year. Happy voting!
THE NOMINEES BEST CHILDREN’S FASHION BRAND • Alice à Paris • Blade & Rose • Emile et Rose • Kingdom of Origin • Magnet Mouse London • Molo • My Little Shop • Noé & Zoë Berlin • Peacheyboo • Scamp & Dude • Someday Soon • Sophia Schneider-Esleben • The Bonnie Mob • Wild & Gorgeous
BEST BOUTIQUE
BEST TRAVEL ESSENTIAL
• Cuckoo Hibou • Eat Sleep Love • Lucy and Belle • Molly Brown London • Peacheyboo • The Little Square Gallery
• A Little Bit Brilliant Space Cot • Avery Row Go Everywhere Mat • Bundle Beds • Hauck Swift Buggy • Penny Scallan 4-Wheel Spinner • Sleepyhead Of Sweden Sleepyhead Deluxe Pod • Splash About Go Splash Swim Vest • Splash About The New Improved Happy Nappy • Storksak Cabin Carry-On
BEST ONLINE RETAILER • Alex and Alexa • All By Mama • Childrensalon • Me & Buddy • Mori • My 1st Years • Stuck On You
BEST CHILDREN’S SHOE BRAND
BEST APP
• Bobux • Clarks • Moccstars • Salt-Water Sandals • Start-rite
• Ebookadabra • Hopster • MyMedela
BEST CHILDREN’S FOOD BRAND • Annabel Karmel • Little Dish • Piccolo • Kiddyum
BEST TRAVEL COMPANY • Abercrombie & Kent • Bushbaby Travel • Powder Byrne • Scott Dunn • Ski Famille • Tots To Travel
BEST FAMILY DAY OUT • Kidzania London • Lapland UK • ZSL London Zoo
BEST KIDS’ CLUB, GROUP OR CLASS • Club Petit Pierrot • Gymboree Play & Music • iCoolKid Ltd • Kids en Cuisine • Little House of Science: Little Discovery • Nurturing Mums Postnatal Courses • Purple Dragon
Vote now at littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/awards
êêêê ê
FIVE STAR R E S OR T
Vote today for your chance to WIN a luxury family holiday to the Maldives! BEST BABY ESSENTIAL
BEST CHILDREN’S TOY
BEST NURSERY NECESSITY
• BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One • Childs Farm Baby Moisturiser • Green People Organic Children Sticky Hand Sanitiser • Huggies Little Swimmers • Huggies Pull-Ups • Kit & Kin Biodegradable Nappies • Kokoso Baby Coconut Oil • Little’Un Baby Box • Matchstick Monkey Teething Toy • Medela Swing Essentials breastfeeding pack • Mori Clever Sleeping Bag • Motorola MBP36XL video monitor • Motorola MBP855 Connect monitor • Mustela UK Gentle Cleansing Gel • Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules • OptiBac Probiotics For Babies & Children supplement • Sleepyhead Of Sweden Sleepyhead Deluxe Pod • Snugbags Merino Sleeping Bags • Smalls Merino Swaddle • Sophie la girafe Cosmetics SOS Cream • Splash About The New Improved Happy Nappy • Stokke Tripp Trapp • The Little Green Sheep Organic Mattress Protector
• Gymboree Play & Music Bubble Ooodles • Lego Juniors construction toys • Ooh Noo Toy Pram • Ooh No Toy Chest on Wheels • Scamp & Dude Sleep Buddy
• Belo + Me wardrobe dividers • Ethaca Sofa Bed / Merry-Go-Round • Katie Bourne Children’s Wallpaper • Matchstick Monkey Teething Toy • Naturalmat Coco Mat • Noé & Zoë Berlin storage baskets • Ooh Noo Alphabet Blocks • Ooh Noo Rocking Horse • Sleepyhead Of Sweden Sleepyhead Deluxe Pod
BEST PUSHCHAIR • Britax Affinity 2 • Bugaboo Cameleon 3 • Uppababy Vista • YippieYo Crossbuggy
BEST PREGNANCY ESSENTIAL • Bump & Baby Club London • Elderflower & Delilah Feed 3-in-1 maternity top • Weleda Perineum Massage Oil
BEST MATERNITY FASHION BRAND • Envie de Fraise • Isabella Oliver • Nine in the Mirror
BEST CHANGING BAG • Jem + Bea ‘Jemima’ • PacaPod ‘Madison’ • Storksak ‘Charlotte’
BEST BLOG • Dress Like a Mum • Mama Still Got It • The Dad Network • The EVB Edit
Plus, the top scorers from the categories above go through to our judges categories:
BEST NEW BRAND BEST NEW PRODUCT BEST PRODUCT BRAND OF THE YEAR
Vote now at littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/awards
INTERVIEW
COTTONtales earne Cotton is famously bubbly, warm and charming on camera, so I’m delighted to find her much the same when we meet in person. Today, we’re talking about her latest book, Yoga Babies, a delightful children’s read praising the practice of yoga for all the family, complete with humorous insights into life with little ones and heart-warming illustrations by Sheena Dempsey. “This year my book, Happy, came out, which was very personal to me. Then there was a cook book, so writing Yoga Babies at the end was just a total joy. It’s all been pretty full on!” Fearne laughs. Yoga is something Fearne has enjoyed herself for years, having discovered it before she had her son, Rex, four. She says, “I was very into running before, but then discovered a fabulous yoga teacher and it’s been part of my life ever since. It’s integral to my sanity! And it makes me feel fit. I do one class a week, then practice twice a week at home for 45 minutes, too.” And clearly the kids, who both feature in the book, love to join in, which is where the idea for Yoga Babies came from. “I think anything that helps children to concentrate in a calm way has to be a good thing,” Fearne explains. “Rex, and little boys in general, are so energetic and testosterone-fuelled it’s great to see them unwind when they do yoga. I love seeing my two channelling their energies into something so positive, even just for 10 minutes,” she says. “At the moment Rex is determinedly working on his handstand while my daughter Honey, two, is focusing on the tree pose, though the balancing bit is tricky!”
F
but once it was out there I was relieved. The public’s response has been amazing, and I’m proud to say it’s probably the best thing I have ever done in my career,” she says. She is currently working on the sequel, which is due for release next year. Fearne always knew she wanted a family, but her path to motherhood came about in an unexpected way. When she met her husband, Jesse Wood, a musician (and son of the Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie) he already had two children; Arthur, now 15, and Lola, now 11, so as she says, she fell into parenting by chance. “I was so lucky,” she says. “They are such cool, smart, accepting kids, and they are amazing with the two little ones now.” The family live in South West London, near Richmond Park, and love spending time outdoors together. “Sometimes I do the soft play thing, but we tend to just put our wellies on and head to the park. Rex can ride a bike now, and Honey pushes her little buggy, and it’s something we all enjoy,” Fearne explains. When they’re at home they love to bake cakes and do arts and crafts together, which, given Fearne’s own love of sketching and writing, proves the artistic streak runs in the family. So now she’s been through it twice, what advice would she give to a first-time mother? “It’s going to be chaos, but it will pass!” she laughs. “Rather than fight it, just go with it and you’ll be happy.” And if she’s anything to go by, it’s a mantra that’s clearly working. bs
RATHER THAN FIGHT THE CHAOS, JUST GO WITH IT AND YOU’LL BE HAPPY
30 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
These kinds of simple pleasures have become part of Fearne’s ethos in general. Happy is about letting go of ‘perfect’, a concept that is near impossible for many mothers to achieve, and part of the reason she wrote the book in the first place. “Our parents’ generation just tried to keep their children alive, but these days, there’s a plethora of ideals that mothers are expected to live up to, and it’s just too much pressure,” she says. “It was an incredibly cathartic process to write, to be honest. I wrote completely freely from personal experience, and I was so glad I did.” She read and re-read the book 20 times before it was published, and right up to the moment it came out she wasn’t sure she had done the right thing. “I felt nervous the night before, like I wanted to take it all back,
Yoga Babies (£9.99, Andersen Press) is available from 7 September
PHOTOGRPHAY: RAY BURMISTON; INSTAGRAM/FEARNECOTTON. ILLUSTRATION: SHEENA DEMPSEY
Fearne Cot ton TALKS TO K ATE FR EU D ABOUT LIFE AS A MOTH ER OF T WO, H ER N EW BOOK , AN D H OW WE CAN ALL LE AR N TO FIN D JOY IN TH E EVERYDAY
Fearne and Jesse have be en married for three ye ars
THIS PAGE: Elvis wears cotton babygrow, £29, Carrément Beau at Childrensalon. Cotton blanket, £20, Smile by Julien Macdonald at Mothercare. RIGHT PAGE: Ivy Rae wears cottonblend top, from £14, Marie-Chantal for Marks & Spencer. Cashmere bonnet, £28, Olivier Baby & Kids. Cotton blanket, £52, Patachou.
Golden hour
PHOTOGR APHY: H ELEN MAR SDEN ST YLING: KELLIE DAGGE T T
THIS PAGE: Vivi wears cotton cardigan, £20, Monsoon. Silk taffeta bloomers (part of a set, dress not shown), £229, Bonpoint. RIGHT PAGE: Ivy Rae wears cotton-blend dress, £53, Patachou. Cashmere leggings (part of a set, hooded top not shown), £25, Smile by Julien Macdonald at Mothercare.
THIS PAGE: Elvis wears cotton velour babygrow, £68, Marie-Chantal. LEFT PAGE: Vivi wears cashmere romper, from £42, Olivier Baby & Kids. Cashmere booties, £39, Brora. Cotton swaddles (pack of three), £38.95, Aden + Anais.
SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: ELVIS, IVY RAE, VIVI, WILLOW. MODEL AGENCIES: ALPHABET KIDZ, BONNIE & BETTY, GRACE & GALOR
Available from
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BABY PARTIES Carole Middleton
Personalised book £23.99, noths.com
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Naming day
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Personalised bracelet £39, mercimamanboutique.com
Personalised silver money box £25, my1styears.com
Sterling silver teething ring £95, mappinandwebb.com
6 English Troussea rattle £39.95, harrods.com
7
1. Ancar shirt and shorts set £44, childrensalon.com 2. Lace dress £90, monsoon.co.uk 3. Merino wool shawl £49.95, ghhurt.com 4. Cotton dress £27.30, petit-bateau.co.uk 5. Silk romper £45, marksandspencer.com 6. Cotton and linen-blend romper £82, pepaandcompany.com 7. Leather shoes £49, rachelriley.co.uk
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osting a naming day party is a wonderful opportunity to get together with friends and family and introduce them to your new addition. Decide on a clear theme for the décor. You might want to pick an all-white theme, or pastels are a perfect way to add a subtle splash of colour. If you want to avoid pink or blue; lemon, grey and pale green all work well. Keep the decorations simple; think hanging paper pom-poms, tealights and small posies of flowers in silver vases on the tables. Ensure there are plenty of refreshments. While you might choose to keep things formal with circulating canapés, a dessert table laden with iced biscuits, macarons and, of course, a cake, works particularly well for this kind of event.
Paper pom-pom £1.99, partypieces.co.uk
It’s likely friends will bring their children, so offer entertainment to keep the little ones occupied. Balloon modelling, storytelling and soft play are all good options. Finally, why not create a special ‘time capsule’ box for your little one by asking your guests to place handwritten notes, photos or small gifts inside. This box of mementos is then presented to your child when they turn 18.
Paper fan £1.99, partypieces.co.uk
Personalised wall print £20, letterfest.com Plastic flutes (pack of six) £7.99, partypieces.co.uk
Paper plates (pack of eight) babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 39 £3.99, partypieces.co.uk
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REVIEW
TOTGEAR
Yvadney Davis AN D H ER DAUGHTER LOLO PUT TH E L ATE ST C YBE X STROLLER TO TH E TE ST
M
y daughter is now at the age where we need a buggy which is a little more streamlined and speedy to go about our daily adventures with ease. We still need a buggy that has comfort, but perhaps a bit more lightweight than the previous travel system that saw her through the early baby years. Working in fashion, I’d already heard of Cybex through the brand’s various collaborations with designers such as Jeremy Scott. The Cybex Mios is the newest model, and when I discovered its Hide & Seek butterfly fashion collection I knew something that’s so lightweight, compact and easy on the eye would be the perfect fit for our family.
he
ios uts a st lish fi u e
GOOD LOOKING? Cybex pushchairs really are things of beauty. Already dedicating many designs to the works of Charles and Ray Eames, the Mios is the latest tribute, so as you can imagine it’s super sleek with great attention to detail. I love the on-trend camouflage print with appliqué butterflies. The butterfly wings on the canopy even flutter when we’re zooming down the road on the school the run, while the leather handles give a luxurious finishing touch.
PRACTICALITY & DRIVABILITY For me, the best pushchairs are the ones you can steer with one hand, be it to have a quick sip of your coffee or hold on to your toddler if they want to walk for a while. The Mios is super easy to manoeuvre, and it handles
ei hin in at ust k the esi n makes ettin f om to a ee e
well on a gravelly path or train carriage. It’s lightweight, so is easy to pick up, even with a toddler inside. You can even switch easily between forward and parent facing if you wish, but these days my daughter loves to see as much of the world as possible. The shopping basket, while not the largest, has enough space for essentials and is accessible from both sides, which is very handy when you’re on the move. My favourite feature, however, is how easy it is to fold down and up again – this is something else you can do with one hand and all it takes is the push of a button. There is a vent on the canopy which means I can check in on the little one, too.
seat design matched with the deep canopy means I can keep her cool in the summer heat, but I would recommend purchasing the additional padded inlay to make this more user-friendly and cosy during the colder months. I have to say, even though it’s a narrower model than we’re used to (measuring in at just 50cm wide), it still feels surprisingly spacious, but also whizzes through those station barriers.
THE VERDICT COMFORT Although the days of Lolo snoozing her way through lengthy walks are long gone, the reclining backrest can be adjusted to four different positions, while the leg rest has three different positions meaning she’s comfortable enough for catnaps on the move. The mesh
The Cybex Mios really strikes the perfect balance of form and function. It looks exquisite, but does the job well, too. And, most importantly, my daughter loves it as much as I do. bs From £600, cybex-online.com
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 41
All-new essentials The latest and greatest baby kit to get your hands on
JOOLZ GEO2 The redesigned Joolz Geo is fully prepared for bumpy rides on all terrains, with punctureproof tyres and an ergonomic seat complete with open harness. From £849, joolz.com
BRITAX TRIFIX I-SIZE CAR SEAT The perfect follow up to the popular BabySafe i-Size seat, Britax has launched the Trifix i-Size, suitable for children from around 15 months up to four years. £250, britax.co.uk
42 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
GB CAR SEAT RANGE GB has strengthened its car seat range with a trilogy of new designs, including the Idan Group 0+ (pictured), the Vaya i-Size, and the Group 2-3 Elian-Fix. From £175, gb-online.com
ERGOBABY OMNI 360 Ergobaby has revealed its most versatile carrier yet, with four carry positions that enables you to easily switch baby to face out while on the move. £154.90, ergobaby.co.uk
STOKKE TRIPP TRAPP The Tripp Trapp’s new colours are inspired by nature with Heather Pink, Moss and Forest Green. There are four new botanical-print cushions available, too. From £169, stokke.com
DIONO QUANTUM TRAVEL SYSTEM A brand known for car seats, Diona has venture into the world of pushchairs. The Quantum’s canopy has extra-large coverage, while the basket can hold a cabin-sized bag. £500, diono.com
The new Quantum stroller. One-step brake
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PREGNANCY
THE WAITING
GAME
ongratulations! You have carried a baby for nine long months. But whether or not you have enjoyed every moment, or been plagued by sickness, backache and heartburn, there comes a point for every woman when enough is enough. Your uterus has done a sterling job, but by 40 weeks all you want to do is to hold your baby in your arms, especially as that immortal due date has been engraved in your mind since your first antenatal appointment. But what happens when that longedfor day arrives, but your baby doesn’t? For many women, the lack of labour can be accompanied by feelings of intense frustration, sadness, disappointment and even surprise. But it’s important to remember that your due date isn’t a deadline, or an expiry date. It’s simply an estimate, a rough guide to when your baby is likely to enter the world – give or take a week or two. In fact, though babies are considered term from 37 weeks, most don’t arrive until 41 weeks, so try to keep this in mind. Community midwife Emma Herbert says despite the anticipation, try to treat your due date as a regular day. “Going over your due date can make your
C
44 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
pregnancy feel like it is never ending. The best thing to do to keep your sanity is to carry on as normal; be mobile, eat and drink regularly and ensure you keep well hydrated.” In fact, only around five per cent of babies arrive on their so-called due date. So to avoid the anti-climax of your baby not arriving on schedule, forget due date, and think due fortnight instead. Unfortunately, it can be hard to stay sane when you have a chorus of friends and family repeatedly asking whether there’s ‘any news’, so, keep your due date under wraps and never reveal it to anyone who has a tendency to ask annoying questions – this may even include your own mother. Of course, if you’ve already told people it’s probably too late to erase the date from their minds (but something to bear in mind for future pregnancies). Also consider turning your phone off, or avoiding Facebook for a while. They’ll soon forgive you once there’s a gorgeous newborn to coo over. Once you’ve politely told people to mind their own business, concentrate on staying busy. Staring at your bump all day isn’t going to make your waters break. So try and focus on other things instead by planning something every day for the next week: meet up with friends, book a haircut or pedicure, bake a
cake, or stockpile meals for the freezer. If you’re still pregnant the following week, make further plans. No one is going to mind if you cancel because you’re in labour. Try to plan some relaxation time too; read a book, take long baths, try gentle yoga or have a nap, because very soon you won’t have the chance. If you have other children, then enjoy quality time with them. Finally, you may feel like you’ve been pregnant for years, but doula and antenatal teacher Cathy Williams says to enjoy it while it lasts. “We only have a few times of feeling a baby growing inside us. Treasure these last days of connection,” she says. And remember, if you’re tired of the whole thing you can always book a midwife appointment for a cervical sweep to speed things up, or book an induction. bs
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
IF IT’S BEEN 40 WEEKS BUT IT APPEARS BABY IS YET TO GET THE MEMO, Becky Dickinson OFFER S ADVICE ON H OW TO COPE WH EN YOU ’R E OVER DU E
PREGNANCY
Be patient – he’s probably pretty comfortable in there!
KEEPING SANE Remind yourself it’s normal. Very few babies come on their due date – most arrive late. Keep busy. Plan something every day. Ignore the questions. Stay away from social media and turn off your phone if people are pestering you for news. Focus on yourself. Sleep deprivation is imminent, so relax while you can. Be grateful you’re not an elephant. The gestation period of an elephant lasts up to 22 months. Your pregnancy is almost over and soon you will have your baby!
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 45
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BABY TALK
PART
Diary of a MUM Mar tha Alexander TACKLE S N EW H EIGHTS AS SH E TAKE S BABY ROBIN ON H ER FIR ST H OLIDAY
T
his comes to you from the aisle seat of a budget airline: Robin is asleep, koala-style on my front, slack of mouth and milky of breath. My husband (Mikey is his name – I realised he has been, as far as this diary is concerned, nameless and there’s no actual reason for that; he’s not famous or shy or precious) is not talking to me because I asked the air stewardess, who looks like she missed her calling as the fifth member of Little Mix, if the Duty Free Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick was a miniature and she responded with a loud monologue about the translucence of the powder, letting me, and all of the suitcases in the hold, know that her sister-in-law swears by it and never leaves home without it. Robin woke up and howled like a chainsaw. “What did you think was going to happen?” hissed Mikey after I spent £40 on said product. “Now Robin is awake and it’s because of you and your ridiculous conversation about glitter bombs or whatever they’re called that you could have literally any hour of the day at home and not in the middle of the night at 40,000 feet over the Aegean Sea after 45 long minutes of patting our daughter to sleep. You are completely bloody mad.” He pulled his hood over his eyes and nuzzled into the shoulder of the stranger next to him. It hasn’t been like this the entire time. In fact, as far as travelling with an infant goes, we’ve kind of been nailing it. I feel capable, for the first time in ages. Our first triumph was getting a Doona, which is basically a car seat that grows wheels. It’s genius, lightweight and really satisfying to use. I cannot believe it’s the first of its kind. How has it taken so long for a species to come up with something so essential? We whipped it off the baggage reclaim belt, released the wheels in two seconds flat and sashayed smugly out of Ben Gurion airport feeling slick and together, as other parents struggled with unfolding clunky pushchairs. No matter that I found a small rubber giraffe knotted into the hair behind my ear hours later. We’ve been to both France and Israel in the past month. It took ages to get Robin’s passport (word to the wise: whoever is your guarantor needs to reply within
about 48 hours or the passport office reject the forms – I should know). But now we are fully international. People, on the whole, are nice when you are travelling with a baby. Obviously the person next to us on the plane, well, their heart sinks when they see us bearing down on them from the gangway. They reach for their headphones and order gin and tonics. But then again, so do we. There have been a lot of firsts. Robin has seen the sea. She has floated inside an enormous pink flamingo. She has felt (and eaten) sand. She has screamed in rage as I smothered her with sun cream. She has delighted the Israeli side of our family with her frilly sun hat (“she’s so English!”). She has watched her mum bellowing with fury after being stung by the same wasp twice in one minute. She has taken to eating warm croissants for breakfast. She has spat out olives in abject disgust. She even has her own sunglasses by Babiators, so she’s now cooler than me (which admittedly is not hard). As for me, on the beach, I’m not taking #belfies in a laser-cut one-piece by any means, but I’m feeling pretty confident. I have been lounging around in beautiful pieces by SZ Blockprints – kaftans and dresses all handprinted in India. I cannot believe the compliments I have had, which only makes me question how basic my poor old wardrobe must have been before. Holidays have changed, in much the same way life has changed. There’s less spontaneity, more cost, and the opportunity to float off into the middle of an eternity pool beached on top of an inflatable slice of pizza with a pina colada in one hand and a copy of Arundhati Roy’s long-awaited new novel in the other is basically nil (so many abandoned attempts because of explosive nappies, lost bottles and the like). However – and this is cheesy, so gird your loins – there’s so much excitement in being able see the world through the eyes of a tiny child again. But before I get too misty eyed, I must remember we have a long-haul flight soon, so ask me how I feel about travelling with a baby after that… bs Twitter: @marthalondon
Turn your car seat into a stroller in seconds – and save valuable luggage space Doona infant car seat £329.99, cuddlecoshop.co.uk
Next time – Martha turns her attention to going back to work
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 47
PREGNANCY
BRING IT ON… Dr Asma Khalil, CON SU LTANT OBSTE TRICIAN AN D FE TAL M EDICIN E SPECIALIST AT TH E PORTL AN D HOSPITAL, DISCUSSE S IN DUCING L ABOU R
ne of the most joyous moments in any mother’s life is the day she welcomes her child into the world, and while usually the little one will make an appearance on its own, on occasions where the estimated time frame is exceeded and you’re approaching 42 weeks, your obstetrician or midwife may recommend inducing labour. Every year, one in five labours is induced, so knowing what to expect from this common procedure is important.
O
HOW IS INDUCED LABOUR DIFFERENT TO ‘NATURAL’ LABOUR? Induced labour is generally known as the process of using medications or natural methods to help kick-start the process. When labour starts naturally, the hormone prostaglandin is released in the muscle wall of your womb. Later on in labour, your brain releases a second hormone, called oxytocin. Both of these stimulate the contractions in the uterus. The advice during an induced labour is that baby should be monitored more closely. This is partly because if too much hormone is given, it can make the contractions happen too close together, and this could make the baby unhappy. It’s also because the underlying reason for the induction may put baby at increased risk of becoming unhappy when regular contractions start (whether they had started naturally or not), so it’s important to have an obstetrician or midwife on hand.
WHY WOULD I NEED TO HAVE AN INDUCTION? An induction will be recommended if a pregnancy runs a couple of weeks past the due date. When women go past the 42-week mark, it is more common for the placenta to ‘run down’ and not give the baby as much food and oxygen as it needs.
48 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
Additionally, if there is a chance that other medical conditions may present harm to either the mother or the baby, your doctor may advise that labour is induced. Common reasons include high blood pressure in the mother (known as pre-eclampsia), reduced fetal movements, diabetes, or issues relating to the baby’s development and size. Ahead of an induced labour, your doctor will discuss the advantages and disadvantages with you. They will also help to determine the safest way to continue with the delivery, and advise you on the best course of action. I always stress that receiving an induction is a personal choice, however when there is a
be offered before labour is induced. This involves a vaginal examination and an attempt to separate the membranes in your uterus away from the cervix. This may release your natural prostaglandin hormones to help start labour. The sweep can be a bit uncomfortable but usually only takes a minute or two. Unfortunately, it’s not that successful; it only increases the chances of going into labour in the next 48 hours a little. But if there’s time, it’s worth a try. If labour doesn’t start after this, or if there isn’t time to try a sweep, you will be offered induction of labour, which will take place at a hospital maternity unit. As a first step, the
EVERY YEAR, ONE IN FIVE LABOURS IS INDUCED USING MEDICATIONS OR NATURAL METHODS medical reason, such as high blood pressure, it’s usually pretty obvious that inducing labour is much safer for both you and the baby.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS? Labour induction is not always successful. If attempts to get the labour started have been going on for 24 hours or more and there’s still no sign of labour, the doctors will discuss your options with you. If all is well with you and your baby, there may be time to take a break for a further 24 hours, then try again. If there isn’t time to wait – for example, if high blood pressure is becoming increasingly difficult to control, the only remaining option may be a caesarean section.
WHAT DOES THE INDUCTION PROCESS INVOLVE? A membrane sweep or ‘cervical sweep’ may
baby’s heartbeat will be monitored for 10 or 15 minutes to make sure baby is completely happy before giving any hormones. A vaginal examination will take place before the mother is administered a hormone-like substance called prostaglandin. This is very much like your own natural prostaglandin hormone that your womb releases when labour starts naturally. It does two things: it acts to ‘ripen’ your cervix, or in other words, makes your cervix softer and more elastic, so when the contractions come, it’s more ready to dilate. These hormones can also gradually bring on contractions. Usually, you will be given either a tablet, pessary or gel containing this hormone. Over the next few hours you may experience period-like pains, or contractions, or you may feel nothing at all. Depending on which type of prostaglandin has been used (gel, tablet or pessary), this
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
If labour doesn’t start naturally after a ‘sweep’, you will be offered an induced labour at hospital
may be repeated after six hours or so. This is sometimes all that is needed to induce labour, and at some point the contractions will start to come regularly and your cervix will dilate. Sometimes, however, as the hormone wears off, the contractions may also reduce or even stop. In this situation, if your midwife finds that your cervix is already a little open (as a result of the contractions), she may suggest breaking your waters. This is done during a vaginal examination and usually takes a minute or two. As the water comes out, it can help to stimulate some of your own natural prostaglandin hormones and get the contractions started again. If, a few hours after the waters have broken there is still no sign of the contractions returning, the midwife or doctor may suggest giving you a second hormone – oxytocin. Although this is a synthetic hormone, it is actually identical to your own natural oxytocin. This is given via a drip in your arm. It’s started off at a very low level and increased in small steps every 10 to 15 minutes until the contractions are coming every three minutes or so (which is what you would expect in normal labour). The oxytocin drip almost always makes the contractions come. But it’s not safe to use until the waters have broken (either naturally or by the doctor). And it’s not possible to break the waters until the midwife can get to them, in other words, your cervix is open a little. So it’s typical to go through the steps in the order above. Some women will need just the prostaglandin, some will need that and their waters broken, and some will need all three. Other options include doctors using a Foley catheter or cervical ripening balloons; these can help to induce labour and are particularly useful when hormones must be avoided. bs
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 49
WELLBEING
Rock-a-bye
BABY
A WELL-R E STED BABY MAKE S FOR A HAPPY BABY. Louise Pyne SHAR E S H ER GUIDE TO BE ATING THOSE SLEEP SE TBACKS
aking sure your child gets enough sleep is paramount for their development, but as any new parent can vouch, getting them to drop off like clockwork is no easy task. Dealing with issues that might be preventing your newborn from catching enough zzzs while in the throes of bleary-eyed sleeplessness yourself can take its toll on your emotions and energy levels, but on the flip side, prioritising your little one’s sleep from day one can offer big rewards for both you and your bubba. “Sleep is essential for your baby’s cognitive development, immune system and general growth, and fortunately there are many ways you can help to ensure they get enough rest,” adds The Baby Show’s sleep expert, Chireal Shallow. So, here are the secrets to making sure your baby drifts off soundly.
M
READ THE SIGNS During the first three months, your baby’s sleep pattern will be erratic, but as you get to know them, you’ll notice they give you clues to their tiredness. Along with obvious clues like yawning and eye rubbing, you may notice changes in their behaviour. “They may
50 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
be more irritable than normal or restless and cry more than usual,” says Chireal. Don’t miss the window of opportunity to put them down for a nap as soon as you sense drowsiness, and use the time to relax yourself so you feel refreshed for the rest of the day’s activities.
BALANCE BABY’S SLEEP-AWAKE SYSTEM At around three months you can start to set up an evening sleep routine with your child by following the same pre-bedtime routine. This could involve bath time, followed by baby massage, reading a picture book together with the lights dimmed and lots of cuddles to release the stress-busting hormone oxytocin. “Your baby’s body rhythm matures at nine months so between three-to-nine months their sleep may still fluctuate. Try not to get frustrated and just remember this is totally normal. They will find their natural rhythm when they are ready,” explains Chireal.
when to hit the sack – naturally helping to regulate their internal body clock. Sleeping in a darkened room at night will also help to boost levels of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin. “Use a balanced combination of blackout blinds and low lighting to ensure your child drifts off happily,” advises Chireal.
ENJOY THE SUNSHINE
DREAM FEED YOUR BABY
Take your baby out for a walk in their pram every day so they have plenty of exposure to natural sunlight. This will reinforce the difference between rise-and-shine time and
Waking your baby up for a feed when they are asleep might sound counter-intuitive but it’s thought that having a full tummy will help them sleep for a longer stretch at night. At
WELLBEING
Babies are born with an undeveloped biological clock that takes months to mature
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
around 11pm give them a bottle or nurse them – without making eye contact. Introduce this as soon as possible. “You can drop the feed when your baby is old enough without the worry that they will wake up,” adds Chireal.
MAKE THEM FEEL SAFE Providing a cosy, secure environment that will encourage daytime naps will also help your child to sleep better at night. “Turn on white
noise, leave a picture of you in the room, and a blanket smelling of your natural scent. This will allow your child to feel safe and to focus on these things,” shares Chireal. Reducing the space they sleep in will also help them feel more secure, so try swaddling them so they feel snug and cosy.
REGULATE THE TEMPERATURE Babies wake in the night when they’re too hot
or too cool so adding or removing layers when necessary is key to making sure they are not too sticky or cold. Make sure your baby sleeps away from radiators or windows in the room, and use a temperature gauge to regulate the coolness. “The optimal temperature is 20˚C,” says Chireal. And with all this advice your baby will be enjoying a happier, healthier slumber in no time at all. bs
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 51
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HEALTH
The Breastfeeding Café with CLARE BYAM-COOK
THIS ISSUE WE ASK:
IS MY BABY USING ME AS A DUMMY?
I
s it OK for your baby to use your breast as a pacifier? Well, the short answer is yes, because breastfeeding is not just a means of giving a baby milk but is also about bonding and spending time with them – and this involves giving comfort as well as food. However, the long answer is that it is not a good idea if feeds start to become unnecessarily long because you regularly allow baby to stay on the breast long after he has finished feeding. Apart from long feeds being tiring for the mother, when a baby learns to suck himself to sleep on the breast rather than being able to settle happily in his own bed, this can create a habit that is hard to break. This might not matter too much during the day, but at night it gets very tiring indeed if a baby demands constant suckling and cries every time you try to put him down. To prevent this from happening, it is important to learn the difference between a baby who is sucking properly and getting milk and a baby who is simply sucking for comfort but no longer getting milk.
STEP-BY-STEP TIPS TO TRY • Try to make each feed a full meal rather than a snack.
Your baby is feeding properly if: • His sucking is deep and rhythmic • He settles well when you put him down • He is feeding every three to four hours • His weight gain is good
• Try to notice when your baby’s sucking changes. Take him off the first breast once he stops sucking properly and offer him the second.
He is not feeding well if: • His sucks are shallow and infrequent and he keeps falling asleep • He doesn’t settle well in his own bed • He is feeding very frequently without a good sleep in between feeds • His weight gain is poor
• When he is no longer feeding effectively on either breast, it’s time to stop feeding.
It takes time to get used to being a mother, so don’t expect to become an expert overnight. In the early days you may find it difficult to recognise your baby’s signals but don’t be afraid to experiment as this is the way to learn what suits you and your baby the best. A little trial and error is always the best solution. Invariably you will have good days and bad days – this is all part of parenthood! bs
• Try to put him down while he is still awake so he doesn’t get used to falling asleep in your arms. • Hopefully baby will settle, but if he fusses you may need to put him back to the breast for a few minutes longer, then wind and swaddle him so he feels comfortable and secure. • Try offering him a dummy.
clarebyamcook.co.uk • Observe your diet to see whether you could be eating anything that disagrees with him.
And if you buy only one thing… Pick up a copy of Clare’s book for invaluable, practical advice on how to prepare and how to overcome the common problems that many new mothers face. What To Expect When You’re Breastfeeding… And What If You Can’t? £12.99, amazon.co.uk
• Check that your milk supply is plentiful and you are producing. • See your GP if you think he might be suffering from a problem such as gastrooesophageal reflux.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 53
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 THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ‘NATURAL’ AND ‘ACTIVE’ DELIVERY OF THE PLACENTA? The difference between the two is that with the natural delivery, no drugs are given. Your midwife or obstetrician will wait for the umbilical cord to stop pulsating before clamping the cord, and then will await spontaneous delivery of the placenta. This can take up to an hour, but the timing can vary. Holding and feeding your baby, as well as passing urine or sitting upright, can help. With an active third stage of labour (the stage where the placenta is delivered), a drug called syntometrine is given into your thigh, usually as the baby’s body is delivering. You won’t feel it as you will be busy delivering your baby! This drug helps the uterus to contract more quickly, so the placenta will separate and deliver without a delay – the benefit is a reduction in the incidence of excessive blood loss. It is particularly recommended if you have had a long labour, required drugs during the labour to make you contract, have twins or fibroids, or if you have an instrumental or caesarean delivery – all of which can increase the risk of bleeding. The placenta is smaller and much softer than your baby so apart from feeling an urge to push, it rarely feels painful. Dr Shazia Malik, consultant gynaecologist and obstetrician at The Portland Hospital
54 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
HEALTH
CAN YOU TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE BCG VACCINE?
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
HOW COULD MY BLOOD GROUP AFFECT MY PREGNANCY? Pregnant women are always given a blood group test. Essentially, there are four main blood types – A, B, AB and O. However, each can either be RhD positive or RhD negative, which means there are eight main blood groups in total. Mixing blood groups can be life-threatening, so you will always receive blood from the same blood group in hospital. In blood group A, for example, there are anti-B antibodies in the plasma, which would attack the cells in blood group B. While more than eight in 10 people in the UK are RhD positive, if a mother is RhD negative but the child inherits an RhD positive blood group from the father, it could cause complications if not treated in a timely manner. It is important to identify at-risk pregnancies early on, so women are usually screened during early pregnancy and again at 28 weeks, regardless of RhD status. If a woman is RhD negative, then there’s a few considerations, such as partner testing, and potential steps that will need to be taken. Anti-D prophylaxis may be administered – which can actually be given to an RhD negative mother following birth to protect future pregnancies, too. Depending on your initial screening results, you may be referred to a specialist clinic for further investigation and detailed antenatal management. It is best to have a clear plan in place for your pregnancy – from the planning stages through to labour and beyond – as each individual will have a completely different circumstance. But there’s no need to worry, if your tests are organised by an experienced professional you will be able to enjoy all the best bits of the next nine months and relax! Dr Anuj Chaturvedi, medical director and GP at HealthClic
The BCG vaccine is a live vaccine against tuberculosis (TB), which can be a serious disease in young children. Studies have shown that immunisation in the first year of life protects against the most severe forms in 70% to 80% of cases. The BCG vaccine is recommended to all babies up to one year who are born in areas of the UK with high rates of TB or who have a parent or grandparent from a high-risk country (see Government TB report 2016:13). In London, areas north of the river Thames are particularly affected. Live vaccines such as MMR should either be given at the same time as the BCG vaccine or at least four weeks after the injection but all routine immunisations in the first year, including the Rotavirus vaccine, can be given. Babies who have a high fever or weakened immune system should not be vaccinated. The vaccine is administered into the skin of the left arm. It leaves a small mark which can develop into a blister after two to six weeks. It heals by itself but usually a small scar remains. The site doesn’t need to be protected during washing. Sometimes a scab appears which might take longer to heal. Small ulcers should be kept dry and exposed to air; otherwise it might not heal properly. Occasionally, the axillary lymph nodes can swell after the injection. Immunity is reached after six weeks. Dr Sophie Niedermaier MD, consultant paediatrician at Richmond Practice
WE’RE GOING ON HOLIDAY THIS MONTH AND OUR VILLA HAS A POOL. WHAT CAN WE DO TO ENSURE OUR 18-MONTH OLD STAYS SAFE? Eighteen months is a great age to encourage your child to enjoy swimming, and it’s lovely to have a pool to relax in when on holiday. But fearless little ones don’t understand the potential dangers – they are likely to find the water irresistible – so you will need to remain vigilant at all times. Drowning can happen quickly and often silently, without any obvious struggle. In fact, a child can drown in just 2cm of water. Ensure you are prepared with the necessary skills to help your child if they have a near-drowning experience. Ensure your child is always supervised in or near the water. Never rely on a buoyancy aid or inflatable, and never leave your child on their own around the pool. Also remember that the sun’s rays are magnified by water, so be sure to reapply sun cream regularly when swimming, and keep your little one out of the midday sun. Swim suits with built-in sun resistance are a great idea, and waterproof hats and tops will also protect your child’s delicate skin. Beach shoes are good for protecting little one’s feet, especially if you decide to spend the day at the beach. Emma Hammett, founder of First Aid for Life
OUR PANEL
Emma Hammett fi stai fo life o
uk
Dr Anuj Chaturvedi
Dr Shazia Malik
Dr Sophie Niedermaier MD
healthclic.co.uk
theportlandhospital.com
richmondpractice.co.uk
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 55
HEALTHL SPECIA
Time to Talk
SAFE MEDICATIONS Marina Fogle & Dr Chiara Hunt
IN THIS SPECIAL EDITION , TH E SISTER S DEMYSTIF Y WHICH R EM EDIE S YOU CAN AN D CAN ’ T USE DU RING PR EGNAN C Y 56 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
PREGNANCY
hile a lot of women are health conscious even before they become pregnant, this consciousness often reaches obsessional levels when expecting. Myths abound; they predate the internet like vermin. If you look hard enough you’ll probably find someone, somewhere, saying that anything is either harmful or safe. Remember though, the internet is not regulated, so it’s worth getting important information like this from a trusted source. When it comes to medication, doctors are generally reluctant to give anything to pregnant women, particularly in the first trimester and, if you read the small print on any medication or supplements, the advice is to always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The reason for this is simple; it is unethical to test drugs on pregnant or breastfeeding women and so while, in many cases, they probably won’t be harmful, the evidence base is not there, so decisions are made on a case by case basis. Doctors therefore make the assessment according to the risk and benefit. For example, if a mother has an infection which needs to be treated with antibiotics, the doctors will ask, is the baby more at risk from the antibiotics or the mother’s infection? Very often the small risk from the medicine is less than not treating something potentially serious in the mother. But at a time when you’re driven crazy by hormones, the minefield of which medicines are safe to take is enough to drive you mad. As a general rule, avoid taking medicines that are not strictly necessary, during the whole pregnancy but particularly in the first trimester when most of baby’s development is taking place. In the meantime, here’s a list of what’s safe and what’s not.
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natural antiemetic, so drinking ginger tea or eating ginger biscuits sometimes helps. Eating little and often tends to keep sickness at bay and, surprisingly, exercise has been shown to reduce the feeling of nausea – even if it’s the last thing that you feel like doing. Anecdotally, women report acupuncture and reflexology as being helpful. When women get an extreme form of nausea, called hyperemesis gravidarum, they are so sick, they cannot keep anything down and risk getting dehydrated. This is a typical case of risk versus benefit where the risks of antiemetic drugs in the pregnancy are considered less than the effects of dehydration.
HAY FEVER Broadly speaking, the nasal sprays and eye drops that contain sodium cromoglicate, antihistamines and corticosteroids are considered the safest first line of treatment when pregnant. If you feel you need to take oral antihistamines, you should speak to your
relief’ which may contain other drugs as well. Raising your pillow while you’re bunged up helps, as does a room humidifier.
COUGHS Over-the-counter cough medicines are not advised and are not that helpful, in any case. If you are feeling unwell with a cough it is important that a doctor listens to your chest to make sure you are not brewing an infection. Night-time coughs can be helped by keeping the air moist with a humidifier.
ECZEMA / ITCHY SKIN RASH Eczema often gets worse during pregnancy and using plenty of emollient cream can help to prevent it. Topical corticosteroids are considered safe if the benefit outweighs the risk – it’s likely that baby will be more affected if the mother is stressed and unable to sleep because of the itchiness, than by the effects of the cream.
THRUSH Thrush is also a common problem during pregnancy and best cleared up as soon as possible. The thrush cream clotrimazole is generally considered safe to use, either in cream or pessary form. If this doesn’t work speak to your doctor about taking the one-off oral tablet fluconazole.
AVOID MEDICINES THAT ARE NOT NECESSARY, PARTICULARLY IN THE FIRST TRIMESTER
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
PAIN RELIEF Paracetamol is the safest painkiller to take in pregnancy. Ibuprofen and high-dose aspirin have both been linked to complications, especially later on in pregnancy, so the advice is to stay away from these.
NAUSEA Nausea in pregnancy is mostly mild and ridden out without the need for drugs. Ginger is a
doctor. Generally the ones that make you drowsy have been studied in pregnancy more than others, and are considered safer. Oral or topical decongestants should be avoided. Otherwise, applying a balm to your nostrils is a good way of preventing pollen getting into your nose and poses no risk to your baby.
HEARTBURN Heartburn can be helped by over-the-counter brands such as Rennie and Gaviscon, and these are safe. Lots of women with bad reflux say constantly sipping the liquid Gaviscon works best. Some foods will irritate heartburn – typically acidic foods, but it often varies from woman to woman so keep a note of what you’re eating to see what exacerbates your symptoms, and try to eat little and often.
COLDS Annoyingly, taking a decongestant is not safe in pregnancy. Paracetamol does help but make sure it is just paracetamol rather than a ‘flu
ANAESTHETIC Anaesthetics are not considered safe in pregnancy and if an operation is avoidable, it’s postponed. An epidural is the safest. This is why pregnant women are advised against any risky sports such as riding and skiing. In the first trimester it’s unlikely that a fall would affect your pregnancy, but if you get injured and doctors need to administer drugs or anaesthetic, then the risk is from those drugs. For more, BUMPS (medicinesinpregnancy.org) is a good online source that compares all the evidence, and of course, always speak to your doctor if you’re worried. bs Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are founders of The Bump Class.Their book, The Bump Class: An Expert Guide to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond (£20, Vermilion) is available now. thebumpclasss.com
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 57
SHOPPING
THE REVIEW
KEEP AN EYE – AN D AN E AR – ON YOU R LIT TLE ON E WITH A TOP- OF-TH E-R ANGE BABY MONITOR , SAYS Laura Mason Connect to the Hubble app on iOS and Android for live video st eamin an notifi ations
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This Wi-Fi video monitor features an impressive pan, tilt and zoom function that spans 300˚ to give a clear, full-colour picture on the 3.5-inch LCD display. The infrared night vision is incredibly clear and intuitive, as it automatically switches depending on the room’s light levels. £149.99, motorolahome.co.uk
58 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
ANGELCARE
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This excels at being a great wireless monitor – not only does it have a fantastic wide lens and crystal-clear sound, but the sensor pad provides additional reassurance. The pad is placed under baby’s mattress and logs all movement, alerting parents when required. £269.99, mothercare.com
Slight and compact, the Minicall has a battery life of 25 hours and vox muting technology that enables it to save energy. The design is water and humidity resistant, making it great for travel to more tropical climates. Charged via USB, it’s definitely one of the more flexible options for parents. £40, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
For peace of mind, this monitor ensures zero electromagnetic waves in baby’s environment. To get the most out of it, the app can host up to four users, offering a two-way talk function, the taking and sharing of images, the chance to share your music library and various soothing light options. £170, kidly.co.uk
This wearable device attaches to baby’s nappy to finely monitor their breathing. The closeness of the monitor means it detects even the slightest of breaths and alerts parents in cases of weak or no breathing within 15 seconds, switching from monitor to vibration mode to rouse baby if they do stop breathing. £79.99, babiesrus.co.uk
Minicall Monitor
FAMILY
BEAT THOSE
potty training PITFALLS
TIM E TO DITCH TH E NAPPIE S? EN SU R E YOU ’R E WELL-PR EPAR ED AN D YOU ’LL ACE YOU R TODDLER’S TR AN SITION , SAYS Louise P yne
astering the switch from nappies to pants is a huge milestone in your toddler’s life, and as a parent, setting a positive tone right from the start will make the learning process a whole lot easier. “The average age a child starts showing signs of readiness to potty train is between the age of two and two-and-a-half years, however, it’s important to remember that every child is different,” says toilet training expert Amanda Jenner (pottytrainingacademy.co.uk). If your little one is demonstrating cues that he’s ready to go nappy-free, here’s what you need to do to teach your child to become a pro.
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Clues that your child might be physically ready to swap nappies for pants include stopping in his tracks or hiding when he needs to go, asking you to change his nappy when it’s full or tugging at the sides. But if your child doesn’t seem interested in sitting on the loo, he might not be mentally ready. Whatever you do, don’t force the issue – it might be worth taking a break and trying again in a few weeks. “Quite possibly your child doesn’t have the verbal communication skills or he is not fully ready, so be patient and give him some time,” adds Amanda.
YOUR CHILD STILL WANTS TO POO IN HIS NAPPY If your child has mastered bladder control but still protests at the prospect of
60 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
YOUR CHILD HAS ACCIDENTS WHEN YOU’RE OUT Accidents are all part of the toilet training learning curve, and when they do happen don’t make a big deal about them as your tot will feel like he has done something wrong. When you go out, make sure to bring at least one change of clothes with you and plenty of baby wipes. “His bladder muscles may not be fully developed yet if he’s under two-and-a-half, so do bear this in mind. Toddlers are also very busy at this age playing and sometimes they forget to tell you that they need to go, so keep offering gentle reminders to minimise accidents,” says Amanda.
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HE’S DRY IN THE DAY, BUT WAKES UP WET IN THE MORNING
If your child is dry in the day but still needs a nappy at night then tweaking your nightly routine might help him tune into his body a little more. “Reduce liquids one hour before bedtime – this includes avoiding fruit snacks, as some fruits can contain up to 80% water,” advises Amanda. Take your child to the loo just before he goes to bed and reassure him that if he wakes up in the night needing to go that he can call you for help.
YOUR CHILD IS SCARED OF THE LOO The toilet can seem like a scary place to a toddler. Your little one might be frightened of falling down it or be scared of the flushing noise, he may even feel anxious about sitting on the seat because it just feels too big. “Take your child out to chose his own seat. Allow him to decorate the seat with his favourite character stickers, and if the loo is still overwhelming, start with a potty and progress when he feels ready,” says Amanda. bs
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
EVEN THOUGH HE’S SHOWING SIGNS, YOUR CHILD JUST ISN’T INTERESTED IN USING THE LOO
pooing on the loo he may not be emotionally ready. “This is very common. Children will often go to hide to do a poo as this is a new sensation for them and they feel embarrassed,” says Amanda. He may also be scared about having an accident, so try to offer as much reassurance as possible and don’t insist he goes to the toilet if he doesn’t want to. “If he poos in his nappy, take him to the bathroom and let him see you flush away the contents so he can see where it goes. Give lots of positive praise when he does eventually sit on the loo to go for a poo,” adds Amanda.
FAMILY
If your child lets you know when they ‘need to go’, it could be time to start potty training
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 61
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FOOD NATURAL HIGH Heavenly Tasty Organics has been awarded a prestigious Sugarwise certificate in recognition of its commitment to low-sugar foods. Its collection of snacks, made with healthy organic ingredients, all met the certification body’s strict standards regarding quality and free-of-sugar content. heavenlytasty.com
food
NEWS CUPBOARD STAPLES
Little Dish has launched a new range celebrating those childhood classics we all know and love. The collection includes baked beans, spaghetti hoops, macaroni cheese and tomato soup, all packed with veg but zero added sugar. There’s also two new cooking sauces to get taste buds tingling; mild korma and tomato. From £1, sainsburys.com
BRAIN FOOD
The meals are made with bigger chunks of veg, rice and pasta to encourage chewing
WE BRING TO TH E TABLE TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST FOOD FOR TH E SMALLE ST OF DIN ER S
TRULY HUNGRY BABY Holly Willoughby is taking on the world of weaning with her second parenting book, Truly Scrumptious Baby. Published this autumn, the title features practical advice on the basics of nutrition, the equipment that’s worth the splurge, feeding techniques, and of course, a ton of recipes. Out 7 September (£16.99, Harper Collins)
What if mealtimes could support baby’s future development? The new Little Bistro range from Kiddylicious does just that; its pouches contain larger chunks to encourage the development of important tongue and speech muscles, with plenty of veg for optimum nutrition. There’s 20 meals to choose from, covering all weaning stages. From £1.20, ocado.com
RESEARCH CONDUCTED BY THE INFANT & TODDLER FORUM FOUND ALMOST NINE IN 10 PARENTS DON’T FOLLOW THE RECOMMENDED FOOD GUIDELINES FOR THEIR TODDLER. 65% MISTAKENLY THOUGHT THEIR CHILD SHOULD ONLY EAT STARCHY FOODS LIKE BREAD AND PASTA ONCE A DAY, RATHER THAN THE SUGGESTED THREE TO FIVE SERVINGS.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 63
FRESH GREENS WITH PEAR AND A HINT OF MINT Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing Makes 4 portions
This smooth purée is packed full of greens; creamy spinach and courgette with sweet peas and juicy apple and pear. INGREDIENTS
• 100g frozen peas • 40g baby spinach, washed • 60g courgette, chopped • Pinch of chopped fresh or dried mint • 1 ripe pear, peeled, cored and chopped • Squeeze of lemon juice (optional) METHOD
Place the frozen peas in a steamer and cook for a few minutes. Then add the courgette and spinach and steam for a further 5 minutes. Take off the heat and drain, reserving a little of the water. Add the pear and mint, and purée. Add a little of the reserved water (or freshly boiled water) to the purée if it’s too thick. Tip: Add a spoonful of natural yoghurt to this, to add a little protein.
64 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
FOOD
Weaning advice Alice Fotheringham answers the most frequently asked questions around introducing solids. What is weaning and when do I begin? Weaning is the introduction of complementary foods other than breast milk or formula. The recommended age to start introducing solids is around six months of age. But it’s important to remember that breast or formula milk are still your baby’s main source of calories and nutrients in the first year: foods are in addition to this.
Wholesome & hearty FROM VEGE TABLE YOGH U RTS TO OLIVE MU FFIN S, GE T R E ADY TO COM BIN E SE ASONAL INGR EDIENTS IN A WHOLE N EW WAY THIS AUTUM N , SAYS N UTRITIONIST Alice Fotheringham
What are the best foods to start with? There really is no one ‘best food’, so don’t feel under too much pressure! I like the Mediterranean approach of offering a wide range of vegetables, fruit, pulses, grains, lean meat, fish, eggs and good fats from food like olive oil – from early on. Try not to stick to vegetables and fruit for too long and get that variety in. Good first food examples include steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or steamed or baked root vegetables such as carrot, sweet potato, butternut squash and parsnips. Easy (and no-cook) foods such as mashed banana or avocado are quick and simple to prepare. What’s best, finger food or purées? A mix of both. Finger food is an important part of your baby’s development, as it helps with hand-eye coordination and speech development. Try them with a steamed broccoli floret or carrot baton, a finger of toast with a bit of full-fat cream cheese, or pop a bit of raspberry on their finger. The most important thing is being responsive to your baby’s hunger, and not worrying too much if some days they don’t appear interested. Never force your baby to eat and try not to distract them if they turn away or clamp their mouth shut – they’ll probably be keen again tomorrow!
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 65
FOOD Using a good quality olive oil makes these muffins extra healthy
MAN GO, PE AR AN D K A L E W I T H A DA S H O F YO G H U R T Preparation: 8 minutes Cooking: 5 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing (into ice lollies) Makes 4 portions
This purée is a delicious combination of juicy, tropical mango and apple with vitamin-rich kale and a swirl of smooth yoghurt. INGREDIENTS
• Handful of curly kale, washed and tough stems removed • 1 small ripe pear, peeled, cored and chopped • ½ mango, peeled and de-stoned • 3 tbsp of full-fat natural or Greek yoghurt
F E TA , O L I V E A N D PA R S L E Y M U F F I N S Suitable from 1 year (remove the salt if giving to a child under 1 year) Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes Storage: Store in fridge; suitable for freezing Makes 12 muffins
These savoury muffins are packed with flavour and perfect for eating on the go. The fresh herbs are great for introducing new tastes to baby, and you can use any cheese you like in this recipe.
METHOD
Place the kale in a steamer and steam for five minutes until wilted. Remove the kale from the steamer and place into a blender. Blend until as smooth as possible, and you only have very small bits. Add the pear, mango chunks and yoghurt and blend all together. Tip: This also makes great breakfast smoothies for grown-ups, or freeze into lolly moulds for an iced yoghurt treat!
INGREDIENTS
• Olive oil for greasing • 2 tsp baking powder • 250g plain flour • 3 free-range eggs • 2 tbsp semi skimmed milk • 50ml extra virgin olive oil • 100g black or green olives, pitted • 2 tbsp flat-leaf parsley • 1 tbsp fresh tarragon • 150g feta, roughly chopped
• 100g cream cheese • 30g pumpkin or sunflower seeds • pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a standard-size 12-hole muffin tin. To make the muffin mixture, combine the flour, baking powder, salt and pepper together in a mixing bowl, and mix in the feta cubes. Stir the eggs, cream cheese, milk, oil, olives, parsley and tarragon and thyme together, then add the dry ingredients and lightly mix together until just combined. Fill each mould in the muffin tin with the mixture. Sprinkle pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top, then place in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Leave the muffins to cool in their tin before serving. Tip: If your little one is not a fan of olives, you could instead try using 50g sundried tomatoes or 100g grated carrot.
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 supports the NCT and gives 10% of its profits to food education. Visit mylittlepiccolo.com to find out more and receive an exclusive discount off your next purchase.
66 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
Small Class Sizes Outstanding & Affordable
Independent Co-Ed
Family Ethos Book a school tour now!
I
3 - 11 Years
Staines Preparatory School @stainesprep
I
stainesprep.co.uk
01784 450909 info@stainesprep.co.uk 3 Gresham Road, Staines. TW18 2BT
Please join us for one of our forthcoming Open Mornings, from 9am: Thursday 21st September Friday 3rd November Thursday 7th December
A school for life
Bringing out the best in every child
The Hawthorns is a thriving independent school in Bletchingley, Surrey, for girls and boys aged 2 to 13 years
Call us to discuss admissions throughout the year
01883 743048
www.hawthorns.com babysurrey.co.uk | SEP/OCT17 | 67
Here We Play Happily
Come along and join in our activities in a welcoming and toddler friendly environment with other parents and carers. All children under 5 welcome.
Rowan Toddler Group Friday afternoons during term time from 1.45pm-3.15pm £2.50 per session
Working
TOGETHER
For further information, please contact Mrs Drake: 01372 462627 Rowan Brae 41 Gordon Road, Claygate, Esher Surrey KT10 0PJ rowanprepschool.co.uk
St Nicholas’ School F L E E T
•
H A M P S H I R E
Celebrating the Individual
Open Mornings Saturday 7th October 10am-1pm
Saturday 18th November 10am-1pm
An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-7 and girls aged 3-16
• Small class sizes • Inspirational teachers • A caring, family ethos • Purpose-built facilities • Idylic grounds • Focus on the individual • ‘Excellent’ ISI Inspection
st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk
01252 850121
registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk 68 | SEP/OCT17 | babysurrey.co.uk
BABY TALK
night nanny Z
Z
Z
DIARY OF A
Georgie Bateman M EE TS A N EW FAMILY IN N EED OF SOM E GUIDAN CE
’m on my way to an interview for a sleep training job and I consciously get my head in the right place. Because I do this all the time, I have to remind myself that, though these are everyday scenarios for me, the family I am going to see are new to it all. The interview generally starts with both of us trying to put on a professional front, but as we get to know each other the barriers come down. This is important, because at the bottom of each successful placement is trust, which can only be achieved when we are being completely honest with each other. At this point it can get emotional, and there can be other pressures, too. Grandparents might make remarks about the fact that their own child slept soundly from a month old – the very ‘child’ who is now struggling to understand why her own baby doesn’t sleep the same way. It can help to understand how society has changed. In the last few decades, the increase in breastfeeding has led to a diminishing focus on the importance of sleep. Many newborns tend to be fed until they fall asleep, or on demand, which isn’t a problem in the first few weeks but then they don’t learn to self-settle. As they grow they develop certain sleep habits which may be fine in very young babies but become less so as they get older. The most important thing you can give your baby is the ability to fall asleep on her own. And like anything in life, a little investment in the early days will reap big benefits throughout her childhood. Newborn babies aren’t aware of much beyond the immediate needs of feeding and sleeping. But as your baby grows, she will become more aware of the world around her, including the difference between being awake and being asleep. If she doesn’t have a peaceful sleep environment
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
I
It’s important to give baby the ability to fall asleep by themselves
and a calming bedtime routine which eases the transition between these two states, she may develop a fear of falling to sleep. As adults, we embrace that moment when we lose consciousness, and the cares of the day slip from our minds. But for a baby of six months or so, letting go in that way can be a terrifying prospect and many parents describe their babies as actively ‘fighting’ sleep. So how can you overcome this fear and instil in your baby an acceptance of something that is so necessary to their health and development? That is my skill, and at an interview I need to reassure parents that I will help their baby learn to sleep through the night without trauma. To this end I always bring references from previous clients. When I knock, the door is opened by mum Heather, her baby nuzzling into her neck. Both look sleep-deprived, Heather looks a little wobbly. We sit down and I explain what I do. “There’s no magic formula, any technique I use will be something you’ve probably
heard of and maybe tried yourself, but the difference is that your baby knows you and has an expectation of how you will respond. She doesn’t know me, so she will wait for me to set the boundaries of our relationship, and she will respond to my confidence that she absolutely can sleep through the night. Also, I’m not as tired as you – I will keep going until she has learnt for herself. Each morning I will give you a sleep diary so you can see what has happened, and track the progress. And within five nights, I am sure you will all be sleeping much better.” Heather smiles and I feel a connection has been made – the trust begins here. bs Contact Katie Price at Night Nannies on 07800 843618 or katie@nightnannies.com. Also check out the Facebook page, Night Nannies South of England.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 69
MICKLEFIELD SCHOOL Built on Tradition – Embracing the Future
Co-Educational Independent Preparatory School Rising 3s - 11 Years Drop-in toddler group Tues, Weds, Thurs, term time 2pm - 3:00pm
Co-ed 2-4 years, Boys aged 4-13 years OUTSTANDING
Micklefield School is a happy flourishing, Independent Preparatory School for boys and girls. We aim to create a family atmosphere that encourages each child to become confident, responsible and to develop their potential.
Next Open Morning, Friday 29th September 2017 Headmaster’s Welcome at 9.30am To register please email office@parkside-school.co.uk
T: 01737 224212 E: office@micklefieldschool.co.uk www.micklefieldschool.co.uk Drop-in Morning 1st November 10am to 12 noon
reigatestmarys.org
www.parkside-school.co.uk
twitter.com/parksideprep
facebook.com/ parksideprep
reigatestmarys.org
An Extra Year 3 Class From September 2017
‘Excellent’
An Extra Year 3 Class -From September 2017 ISI Inspection 2016
OPEN MORNINGS Nursery & Junior School
College & Sixth Form
29 & 30 September 2017
30 September 2017
OPEN MORNING Wednesday 3 May Open Days 11 October and 29 November OPEN MORNING Reigate St Mary’s School Chart lane, Junior School of Reigate RH2 7RN 01737244880 Wednesday 3 May office@reigatestmarys.org
Call 01932 839437 Book now at www.stgeorgesweybridge.com Leading independent co-educational Roman Catholic day schools and Nursery in Surrey offering a values-led education for 3 to 18 year olds.
Reigate St Mary’s School, Chart Lane, Reigate, RH2 7RN 01737 244880
A Registered Educational Charity No.1017853
@RSMPrepSchool
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28/07/2017
Reigate St Mary’s School Chart lane, Reigate RH2 7RN 01737244880 10:41office@reigatestmarys.org
facebook.com/ReigateStMarys
Junior School of
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
A HEAD START
Research on behalf of Pat-A-Cake books reveals 87% of parents agree that reading is important to a newborn’s development, but most are not aware of why. Reading to baby helps to stimulate the brain at precisely the time when important connections are being formed. 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 covers 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!
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
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 all good newsagents.
COLOUR CODING Inject a little fun into learning numbers and letters with The Jam Tart’s new range of colouring-in posters. And, if you’re after something to keep your toddler educated on the go, check out its collection of colourful flashcards for reciting the alphabet and maths basics. From £11, thejamtart.co.uk
ON THE UP Co-ed prep school Feltonfleet has announced the appointment of new headteacher Shelley Lance. Shelley began her teaching career at Alleyn’s School in Dulwich, joining Feltonfleet in 2010 where she currently holds the position of deputy head. She will begin her new role in January. feltonfleet.co.uk
From Red Robin to Orange Orangutan, little ones can enjoy learning the colours ‘hidden’ within each animal letter
ON THE LAST DAY OF TERM, MORE THAN 500 PUPILS AT ST GEORGE’S JUNIOR SCHOOL IN WEYBRIDGE DONATED THEIR OLD SCHOOL SHOES TO CHILDREN IN AFRICA. CHARITY SAL’S SHOES SENDS THE SECOND-HAND PAIRS TO KIDS IN NEED, MANY OF WHOM ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND SCHOOL WITHOUT THEM.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 71
EDUCATION
First-day nerves
STARTING ‘ BIG SCHOOL’ CAN BE DIFFICU LT FOR CHILDR EN AN D PAR ENTS ALIKE. H ER E, Becky Dickinson E XPL AIN S HOW IT CAN PROVE AN E XCITING N EW CHAP TER FOR BOTH
hen the email arrived to say my daughter had been allocated a school place for September 2017, I couldn’t help shedding a tear. With those few impersonal lines came the final realisation that my little girl would soon be a schoolgirl. And my nest would finally be empty – at least between the hours of 9am and 3pm. Although I’d been through first-day nerves with her older brother and sister, it felt different this time. When my eldest two started school, I still had another child at home. But as Anya is my last, it’s just going to be me and the dog. Like many parents, part of me is looking forward to finally having a bit more time. Instead of trying to cram my working week into 15 hours of childcare and a marathon of late nights, I’ll be able to get more done during the day. I may even take up Pilates, or make that photo book I’ve been meaning to do for years. But there is also sadness in knowing that a significant phase of her childhood will soon be over – and with it perhaps a little part of my own life, too. With the ring of a bell, those delightful, exhausting preschool years will soon be gone. Psychiatrist Dr Hayley van Zwanenberg, associate medical director of The Priory Group, says September can affect parents in different ways. “If a parent has spent the last five years totally focused on their child’s happiness they
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can feel quite a loss of their own identity and a big void in how to fill their time. However, there is a proportion of parents who feel some relief when their child walks through the school gates as they can focus on their other interests during the day without guilt.” For children, starting school is likely to be the biggest transition of their lives so far. But if you’re feeling anxious on their behalf, it’s important not to show it. Instead, focus on the positives: the new friends they’ll make, the fun they’ll have, even the school lunches! Most schools offer settling-in sessions before the start of term and these provide a fantastic opportunity for you and your little one to get to know the classroom and the teacher in a relaxed atmosphere. You can also help prepare your child by reading books about starting school and talking about what they’re looking forward to. Don’t overdo it though, it’s important to maintain a sense of normality despite the change ahead. It’s also a good idea to buy the uniform in advance. Not only does this avoid the lastminute stress of trying to get hold of sizes that have sold out, but it helps your child become familiar with it. Let them try it on, and even do some role play. Of course, many children do get upset on those first few mornings, or even weeks. Reassure them that you’ll be back before they know it, and remember, any distress is usually
short-lived. Once they’ve got over the initial separation, most children quickly become absorbed in an activity. It can be a daunting time for parents too – it’s natural to feel unsettled at such a significant milestone. Yet Dr van Zwanenberg adds that most parents quickly adapt to the routine of school. “Many do start to enjoy their time apart from their child and to optimise their time with their child after school,” she says. “For the vast majority the sad feelings diminish as they see their child flourish and remain happy and healthily attached to their family.” However, Dr van Zwanenberg points out that if the negative feelings don’t subside, it’s important to seek help. “There is a small proportion of parents who
EDUCATION
BEAT THE NERVES Feeling anxious? Dr Hayley van Zwanenberg shares her tips Remind yourself that these feelings are normal. Discussing them openly with friends can help.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
STARTING SCHOOL IS LIKELY TO BE THE BIGGEST TRANSITION OF THEIR LIVES SO FAR find their anxieties remain, and their mood and enjoyment of life does not return as expected. They may continue to feel a sense of guilt or hopelessness about their life or the future. I would suggest they visit their GP, as they may be suffering from, or developing an anxiety or mood disorder, both of which are very treatable.” It’s also a good idea to get things in place before the start of term so you’re not suddenly faced with a school-sized hole come
September. Make career plans, join an exercise class, look into volunteering or start that novel. I’m already starting to fill the calendar. So while there may be tears – both Anya’s and mine – I know there is so much more to look forward to, in both our lives. As much as I will miss those unstructured hours together, I can’t wait to see her develop into an independent person with dreams and ambitions of her own. And that, of course, is the irony of parenting. bs
The quality of the time you spend with your child is more important than the quantity. Engage them in conversation, relax with them and have fun. Get to know the staff. There is ample evidence to show that children do better in school if there is good communication between parents and teachers. Try not to be visibly upset when term starts. You and your child mirror each other’s emotions. Develop your own sense of identity in other ways. Parents who have other roles often find it easier to balance their emotions in a healthy manner.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 73
EDUCATION
MEET THE HEAD How long have you been at Sutton High Junior School? I joined in September 2014 as deputy head, and was appointed head a year later. I have extensive experience of teaching the Junior School age range in both the independent and maintained sectors, including a number of years teaching in Australia. What do you see as Sutton High’s main strength? We are a Junior School aiming to develop girls both pastorally and academically – this is based on knowing each girl individually, her personality and her skills set. Our priority is to enable the girls to be happy, confident and independent. Our belief is that when the girls enjoy coming into school they will develop a love of learning, they will feel supported to try challenges and to discover their individual talents. Sutton High is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, how do your pupils benefit from this? The GDST is the largest network of independent girls’ schools in the country. It gives us a scope
74 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
ANNE MUSGROVE Sutton High Junior School
We talk to the headteacher of the independent girls-only day school no other school can match – in how we teach, how we manage ourselves and make plans, how much we can invest in our schools and their facilities, and in how we collaborate in the classroom or the sports field. Our combined strengths mean we can help girls perform to be the best that they can be, to a high level. We are among the nation’s leaders in terms of developing our youngest
girls’ learning in the Junior School to the GCSE and A-Level results we achieve, in terms of the number of girls studying STEM subjects and languages, in terms of sporting success and in terms of desired university destinations achieved. The quality of our schools and the network of which they are part enable us to equip our girls with the skills, qualifications and confidence they need for adult life. What kind of feedback have you received from parents? You’ll be hard pushed to find a parent that doesn’t reference the strong teaching and pastoral offering as our key strengths. ‘Girls don’t feel under pressure to be a certain way or certain type here, and they’re very supportive of each other,’ said one. ‘My
daughter has been happy and confident since joining because of the way they have treated her, and the result has been that she’s done really well academically,’ said another – and that, really, sums up the philosophy of our school. Can you tell us a bit about the school’s history? It was founded by the then Girls’ Day School Trust. The first head was Miss Margaret Whyte, and there were 80 pupils on the opening day, 17 January 1884. What’s in store for school for the rest of the year? This year we are planning for our potential new Nursery pupils to be able to ‘Discover School’ from as early as six weeks before they turn three years old. Girls can dip their toe into school life through our nurturing environment. The girls have qualified teachers in their Nursery classes, along with teaching assistants, and have specialist teachers for Music and PE les, including weekly swimming lessons in our school pool. bs suttonhigh.gdst.net
An outstanding education for girls aged 3-18 Register for Open Events at www.suttonhigh.gdst.net
HAPPI NE SS • C ON FID EN CE • AC HIEVE ME N T
‘ Excellent ’ Latest ISI Inspection
55 Cheam Road, Sutton, Surrey SM1 2AX T. 020 8225 3001 E. admissions@sut.gdst.net
Claremont Fan Court School An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years
Open Mornings 3 October 2017 & 6 March 2018 A happy, caring environment for girls & boys in Woking aged 3 - 13 & just 25 minutes from London
hoebridgeschool.co.uk admissions@hoebridgeschool.co.uk 01483 772194
Prep School - Day, Weekly & Full Boarding 8-13 Years | Nursery & Pre-Prep 3-7 Years
Pre-Preparatory and Nursery School Children join the Pre-Nursery class in the term they turn three. Please come and visit us.
“A First-Rate Education” ISI Report
“Full Marks for Pastoral Care”
To arrange an appointment, telephone 01372 463695 or email preprepschool@claremont.surrey.sch.uk
Good Schools Guide
Highfield Open Morning Saturday 7th October 10am - 12 noon
Brookham Pre-Prep & Nursery Bespoke visits – please call to arrange
For more information or to arrange a bespoke visit please call 01428 728000 www.claremont-school.co.uk
www.highfieldschool.org.uk | Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ
babysurrey.co.uk | SEP/OCT17 | 75
New warm water pool open in Oxshott Surrey
Teaching your baby to love the water
Receive 20% discount when booking a foundation course! Just mention ‘Baby Surrey Magazine’
www.littledippers.co.uk 01273 229390 • 07793 270 555 chinthurstschool.co.uk chinthurstschool.co.uk chinthurstschool.co.uk
chinthurstschool.co.uk
CHINTHURST CHINTHURST SCHOOL SCHOOL CHINTHURST SCHOOL START THE JOURNEY THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME chinthurstschool.co.uk START THE JOURNEY THAT WILL LAST A THAT LIFETIME START THE JOURNEY WILL LAST A LIFETIME
CHINTHURST SCHOOL Start the journey that will last a lifetime START THE JOURNEY THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME
Outstanding 11 + Results 2017
Teething Jewellery for Stylish Mama www.mamaandbelle.com
Open Days 5 Oct and 9 Nov @ChintSchool facebook.com/ChinthurstSchool
76 | SEP/OCT17 | babysurrey.co.uk
Now available at
OUT AND ABOUT
mini
AGENDA
Charlot te Tomlinson-White ROU N DS U P SU R R EY ’S BE ST EVENTS
Wizards & Witches Week
Wizards & Witches Week
Spin a Web
BOCKETTS FARM PARK Young Street, Fetcham, Leatherhead KT22 9BS bockettsfarm.co.uk
HASLEMERE EDUCATIONAL MUSEUM 78 High Street, Haslemere GU27 2LA haslemeremuseum.co.uk
This half term, enjoy a packed programme of activities including a quiz trail, magic shows, creepy craft corner and the Reptile Roadshow. There will be hundreds of pumpkins on sale, too, plus all of the usual farmyard fun. Admission: Adults, £10.50; children, £10.95; under-twos go free. Saturday 21 to Sunday 29 October, 10am to 5.30pm.
Part of the museum’s Early Years sessions, this is a drop-in workshop for little ones aged under five, and their parents and carers. Listen to the story of The Very Busy Spider and help make a giant web. You might even capture some web from the museum’s garden. Admission: Adults, £1; children, £2. Friday 8 September, 10.30am to 11.30am.
Spooky Autumn Singalong
The Hunting of the Snark
ROSE THEATRE KINGSTON 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL 020 8174 0090 rosetheatrekingston.org
G LIVE London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA glive.co.uk
Úna Guitar Girl returns with 40 minutes of singalong tunes for your little ghouls and boys! Perfect for children under six years, dress up in your favourite Halloween costume and join in the spooky fun, with themed toys and props to hand and the chance to play with a variety of percussion instruments Admission: £6 each. Saturday 14 October, 10.30am.
Enter the imaginative world of Lewis Carroll in this brand new adaptation of his classic poem. With life-like puppets and lashings of humour, the story follows a riotous gang of bold adventurers as they set off on a quest to catch the mysterious Snark. Admission: £15.50 each. Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 September, performance times vary.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 77
OUT AND ABOUT Jungle Jive
Handa’s Surprise
Half Term Family Fun
Mister Maker & The Shapes Live!
Handa’s Surprise POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com Travel to Kenya and follow Handa as she journeys to see her best friend Akeyo, in the next village. Performance, puppetry, live music and song combine to create a magical, intimate production with audience participation. Suitable for ages two to six years. Admission: £12.50 each. Saturday 30 September and Sunday 1 October, 11.05am, 12.30pm and 2.35pm.
Painting For Under Fives THE LIGHTBOX Chobham Road, Woking GU21 4AA
thelightbox.org.uk Little ones are invited to enjoy some painting fun at The Lightbox. Dress for mess and discover your creative side, with all materials included. Be sure to book in advance – these workshops get filled up fast. Admission: £3 per child and accompanying adult. Friday 15 September and Friday 13 October, 11am to 11.45am.
78 | SEPT/OCT 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
Sea Shells on the Sea Shore HASLEMERE EDUCATIONAL MUSEUM 78 High Street, Haslemere GU27 2LA haslemeremuseum.co.uk This Early Years session is open to little ones under five, and their parents and carers. Pop along and marvel at the beauty of the shells from the museum’s handling collection and make your own shell picture. Admission: Adults £1; children, £2. Friday 22 September, 10.30am to 11.30am.
Mister Maker & The Shapes Live! NEW VICTORIA THEATRE Peacocks Centre, Woking GU21 6GQ atgtickets.com Join ultimate arts and craft hero Mister Maker for his first ever live theatre tour, packed full of arty fun. There’ll be a big ‘make’ to take part in, songs to join in with – and not forgetting his pals, The Shapes, too! Admission: £17.65 each. Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 October, times vary.
Half Term Family Fun BROOKLANDS MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN brooklandsmuseum.com
Goblin’s Peter and the Wolf G LIVE London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA glive.co.uk
This is your chance to look out for Bertie the Brooklands Bear, take part in family workshops and venture up Test Hill in a vintage-style car. Plus, little ones will love the dedicated kids’ tour of Concorde where fun and noise are encouraged! Admission: Standard admission applies. Adults, £11; children, £6; under-fives go free. Monday 23 to Friday 27 October, 10am to 5pm.
The show follows Peter and Grandad as they go camping for the weekend. Join Peter on his adventure through the fields and forest, as he discovers new sounds and noises. There will be music created with a variety of instruments and objects, including musical vegetables! Admission: £10.50 each. Saturday 28 October, 10.30am and 1pm.
Go Autumn Nuts
Jungle Jive
SHALFORD MILL Shalford, Guildford GU4 8BS 01483 561389 nationaltrust.org.uk
POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com
Take part in seasonal activities using the fruits of autumn. Make your own nutty jewellery or characters from conkers, sweet chestnuts and acorns, then follow the Jay trail and enjoy some chestnut roasting. Admission: Standard admission applies, plus £2 per child. Wednesday 25 October, 11am to 4pm.
This lively, hour-long movement, dance and craft workshop has been designed for little adventurers aged three to five years. Don’t forget to dress your child in clothing they can move freely in. Admission: £18 each. Friday 27 October, 10am to 11am or 11.15am to 12.15pm.
OUT AND ABOUT
In a Nutshell The Night Pirates
PHOTOGRAPHY: JASON DODD; PAMELA RAITH PHOTOGRAPHY; MARK DAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY; GEORGI MABEE
The Railway Children
Creepy Creatures
The Railway Children
The Night Pirates
Haslemere Food Festival
Tractor Ted Live
RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1Q J atgtickets.com
ROSE THEATRE KINGSTON 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL rosetheatrekingston.org
GODSTONE FARM Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone RH9 8LX godstonefarm.co.uk
Enjoy this musical adaptation of the children’s classic for an insight into rural Edwardian life. When their father disappears one evening, the children’s lives are turned upside down. This tale is packed with intrigue, adventure and joy, and promises to be an uplifting experience for all ages. Admission: From £12.25 each. Friday 1 to Sunday 3 September, times vary.
Adapted from the bestselling children’s book by Peter Harris and Deborah Allwright, The Night Pirates tells the tale of a group of little girl pirates who descend on a young boy called Tom at bedtime. This show combines original songs and swashbuckling adventures, for ages three years and over. Admission: £15 each. Wednesday 6 to Saturday 16 September, times vary.
HASLEMERE EDUCATIONAL MUSEUM 78 High Street, Haslemere GU27 2LA 01428 642112 haslemeremuseum.co.uk
Wey River Festival
Storyteller, Storyteller
RIVER WEY AND DAPDUNE WHARF Wharf Road, Guildford GU1 2PP nationaltrust.org.uk
FARNHAM MALTINGS Bridge Square, Farnham GU9 7QR farnhammaltings.com
There will be entertainment, stalls and activities on offer, including children’s crafts and a climbing wall. Then, at dusk, there will be an illuminated boat pageant accompanied by the Croydon Steel Orchestra. Admission: Free. Saturday 23 September, 11am to 10pm.
Slapstick and non-verbal storytelling create a feast of laughter as two storytellers go head-to-head in a high-energy battle for laughs. This madcap extravaganza comes from Storypocket Theatre and is suitable for children aged three years and over. Admission: £8 each. Thursday 26 October, 2.30pm.
Head over to Lion Green and celebrate all that is great about local produce with a packed programme of demonstrations, live music and children’s entertainment and activities. Admission: Free. Saturday 23 September, 10am to 4pm.
The Tractor Ted Live team comes to Godstone Farm once again for a weekend full of themed activities, including a giant Tractor Ted bouncy slide, Digger Den and Welly Wanging. Admission: Standard admission applies. From £8.90 each; under-twos go free. Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September, 10am to 6pm.
In a Nutshell
Creepy Creatures
POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com
RHS GARDEN WISLEY Wisley Lane, Woking GU23 6QB 0845 260 9000 rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley
Puppetship presents this touching tale of Little Acorn, who wakes up too early and embarks on a breakfast adventure that takes him to the edge of his world and beyond. Told with puppets, music, and bits and pieces, it’s a theatrical treat! Recommended for children aged three to six years. Admission: £12.50 each. Friday 6 to Sunday 8 October, performance times vary.
Try your hand at pumpkin carving this autumn at Wisley, and embrace your creative side with bug-themed craft activities. Little ones can listen to stories and play music, too. Admission: Standard admission applies. Adults, from £12.60; children, from £6.30; underfives go free. Saturday 21 to Sunday 29 October, 10am to 6pm.
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 79
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OUT AND ABOUT
Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
1 YEAR for just £18
Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Mini Aces Under 5s Clubs
NEW VICTORIA THEATRE Peacocks Centre, Woking GU21 6GQ atgtickets.com
BROOKLANDS MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN brooklandsmuseum.com
Starring X Factor winner Joe McElderry, don’t miss Bill Kenwright’s magnificent production of the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours. This magical family musical is full of unforgettable songs. Admission: From £16.90 each. Tuesday 12 to Saturday 16 September, times vary.
With the use of stories, crafts, song and dance, the Mini Aces club brings the museum to life for little ones, focusing on different objects, stories and exhibits each month. Admission: Standard admission applies, plus £2 per child. Thursday 14 September and Thursday 12 October, 10.30 to 11.15am and 11.30am to 12.15pm.
Spooky Family Fun Afternoon
Butterflies and Beautiful Minibeasts
THE LIGHTBOX Chobham Road, Woking GU21 4AA thelightbox.org.uk
HASLEMERE EDUCATIONAL MUSEUM 78 High Street, Haslemere GU27 2LA haslemeremuseum.co.uk
Get in the spirit of Halloween, as little ones transform into their favourite ghost, ghoul or monster with the help of expert face painters. Then drop into the Cup Ghosts craft workshop and make your own friendly ghost to take home. Admission: Free; suggested donation, £2. Friday 27 October, 1.30pm.
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This fun-filled Museum Explorers session is open to children aged five to 11 years. Marvel at the beautiful creatures, then create your very own artwork inspired by them. Booking is advisable. Admission: £7 each. Saturday 2 September, 10.30am to 12pm.
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Groups & Classes A SELEC TION OF LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E
Willow wears silk taffeta dress, £229, Bonpoint. Cashmere shawl, £88, G.H Hurt & Son.
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN
STOCKISTS Aden + Anais adenandanais.co.uk Bonpoint bonpoint.com Brora brora.co.uk Burberry uk.burberry.com Caramel caramel-shop.co.uk Childrensalon childrensalon.com Cole & Son cole-and-son.com G.H Hurt & Son ghhurt.com Harrods harrods.com Hucklebones hucklebones.co.uk Little Knittle littleknittle.com Mabli mabli.co.uk Marie-Chantal mariechantal.co.uk Marks & Spencer marksandspencer.com Monsoon monsoon.co.uk Mothercare mothercare.com Next next.co.uk Noé & Zoë noe-zoe.com Olivier Baby & Kids olivierbaby.com Oscar et Valentine oscaretvalentine.com Patachou patachou.com Pepa & Co pepaandcompany.com Rachel Riley rachelriley.co.uk Scandibørn scandiborn.co.uk Wild & Gorgeous wildandgorgeous.co.uk Woollywonder Knits woollywonder.co.uk
CLASSICAL MUSIC CLASSES
FOR WATER BABIES
Classes held in Esher for babies and toddlers Baby Maestro offers a whole world of music to discover each week. Fun percussion instruments, puppets and other props are used to engage and stimulate your child’s interest in music. Each session, a well-known piece of classical music is used to act as a theme which is explored through nursery rhymes and interactive play to create an exciting and stimulating musical experience. The classes are taught by a professional musician who will be playing the clarinet or piano each week, exposing your child to the beautiful world of classical music throughout each session. 07973 119855 info@babymaestro.co.uk babymaestro.co.uk
Teach them to swim The UK’s leading baby swimming company, Water Babies, runs fun and innovative swimming classes for newborns through to toddlers in Surrey, providing core swimming skills that could potentially save your little ones’ lives. The lessons are taught by world-class instructors and the company’s award-winning programme gives babies confidence in the water and teaches safety skills from birth. They are great classes for you and your baby to experience together. Water Babies was also voted best National Baby & Toddler Development Activity in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Contact Melissa, or visit the website for class details. 01932 227428 waterbabies.co.uk
RHYTHM AND NO BLUES
AS SOON AS YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN PLAY FOOTBALL!
Classes held six days a week Monkey Music is the pre-school music group for children aged three months to four years, which won Best National Pre-schooler Development Activity – as voted for by parents! Monkey Music introduces music to children in a fun way that they can easily understand, with specialist teachers who gently encourage social and musical skills in a stimulating environment. The classes use a combination of music, percussion instruments and visual props. More than 300 songs, musical games and movement ideas are used. Enjoy a complimentary introductory session. For contacts and classes in your local area, visit the website. monkeymusic.co.uk
Classes across Surrey The very best football coaching for toddlers and children for ages 18 months to seven years. The classes are unique in that they involve the whole family and encourage parent participation. Join the fun and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks Football Classes! Birthday parties, private and holiday classes, nursery and after-school sessions can all be arranged. Kiddikicks is also available to franchise – contact Kiddikicks now for more information. Sign up to receive your free kit (registration fees apply). 01932 489 335 | 07590 467571 jen@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk
babysurrey.co.uk | SEPT/OCT 2017 | 81
BUSINESS
The duo create products for both mum and baby
INSPIRE What inspired you to set up Bloom and Blossom? Christina: Julia and I have always been interested in beauty and skincare – searching for innovative solutions to looking and feeling our best – and no time more so than when we were pregnant. We wanted effective, safe, ingredient-led products that delivered the same results as our non-maternity focused skincare. We also wanted something stylish and elegant, that didn’t scream ‘pregnant’. When we couldn’t find anything on the market we liked, we decided to create our own. What did you both do before you set up the business? Christina: My background is in marketing and financial services, having spent six years in the city. Julia: My background is PR and publishing – I spent 10 years in PR followed by six years at Glamour magazine. It gave me an incredible foundation in an industry that I love. Are your children an inspiration for the brand? Christina: Bloom and Blossom is a brand created for mums, by
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CHRISTINA MOSS AND JULIA YULE The sisters-in-law and founders of skincare brand Bloom and Blossom talk family, early starts and multi-tasking mums. We have five children between us, ranging from two to seven years old. They’re definitely a daily inspiration, from the products we need to the ingredients we want to use on our kids’ skin. Describe a typical day for you. Christina: My mornings start early and most days I am up by 6am so I can work out and meditate before my kids wake up. One of the things I love
most about my job is that no two days are the same – I don’t really have a ‘typical’ day. The only constant is that I drop my daughter off at school every day (this was a non-negotiable factor in choosing the right office space for both Julia and I). After the school run, it could be heading into London for retailer meetings, or to the office to review sales figures or inventory control or planning a marketing campaign. With a small business you have to be very hands on and willing to apply yourself wherever you are needed. I’m still no stranger to packing up last-minute press kits and making emergency runs to the post office! What is your advice for anyone wanting to start a business? Julia: Believe in yourself, believe in your product and just go for it.
Don’t be put off when you hear the word ‘no’ – make a judgement or a change and try again. You have to be quite thick-skinned, and also open-minded, so listen to advice and try, try again. What has been the highlight of the business so far? Julia: It might not sound like much, but seeing our products on the shelf in a store or shop window is everything to us. Watching the orders coming through our website, seeing the customer feedback and people’s love for the products, and holding a copy of a magazine or newspaper with a rave review – all of these are highlights for us. They’re all accomplishments we are so proud of. What are your plans for Bloom and Blossom moving foward? Julia: 2017 is a big year for us – we have a very large launch happening in early 2018! We can’t say too much yet but we are so excited about the new steps we are taking with the business, so watch this space! bs bloomandblossom.com
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