Baby March 2019

MOTHERHOOD

Kick-starting labour

YOUR GUIDE TO INDUCTIONS

CHOOSING YOUR PUSHCHAIR

NEW WHEELS FOR 2019

Skin deep

HOW TO CARE FOR AND PROTECT YOUR LITTLE ONE

MARCH 2019 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Teigen ON MILLENNIAL

PA R E N TI N G M AGA Z I N E

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baby T H E LUXU RY P R EG N A N C Y &

COULD IT BE COLIC? TOP TIPS FOR

CRYING BABIES

THE PARENTING APPS WORTH USING

SLEEP

solutions HELP YOU AND

BABY CATCH SOME zzZ’S

love is all around

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL

Quick & easy weaning recipes

£4.20

HEALTHY START

2018 Product of the Year!

Meet the game-changer in infant & toddler comfort Sleepyhead® has been designed to create a soothing environment for babies. Many babies prefer a nurturing, cozy surrounding that mimics the mother’s womb.

Sleepyhead® was designed to help co-sleeping families prepare for bed-sharing.

WHY SLE E PYH E A D?

1 NE VER COM PROM IS E ON ST YL E Mix and match chic covers designed to compliment today’s sophisticated home and nursery trends.

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FACILI TATE S TU MMY TI M E Tummy time can help babies develop neck strength and motor skills when they are awake and ready to play.

TR AVE L A NY WH E R E WI TH BA BY An ideal travel companion for parents with babies and toddlers, as it maintains familiarity in a new environment.

MU LT IFU N C T ION AL Resting, bonding, playing, nursing and changing all in one. Ultra-portable, can be used in any room of the house.

T I P S F O R B E D S H A R I N G FA M I L I E S If you choose to use a pod while bed-sharing, consult with your paediatrician, and be sure to follow the precautions we share on sleepyheadofsweden.com, including: 1. Never allow baby to co-sleep with an adult who suffers sleep disorders, is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication, or is obese. Ensure that each adult in the bed is aware of the baby’s presence.

2. Carefully prepare the bed: Place the pod on a firm mattress only. Be sure it lays flat and remains flat with adult(s) in the bed.

Make sure there are no extra pillows on the bed that can go over the baby while in the pod.

Pillows and covers present a suffocation risk to your baby.

Position pod in center of bed, near headboard. Each side of the pod should be at least 12 inches from edge of bed.

Make sure there are no covers (including blankets, sheets, pillowcases, shams, comforters, and other bedding) over the pod.

3. To reduce risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, only place baby on back in the pod.

4. Never leave baby alone in adult bed.

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CONTENTS MARCH 2019

42 t the power opens up abou Chrissy Teigen (p.54) up ng speaki of honesty and

25

Archie wears cotton shirt, £56, Caramel. Cotton romper, £19, Jojo Maman Bebe. Cashmere booties, £34, Olivier Baby. Hand-quilted blanket, £89, Camomile London.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN

FEATURES

40 APP’INESS Sarah Dawson picks the best parenting apps to take you right through pregnancy to baby’s early years 54 CLEAR AS CHRISSY Model and author Chrissy Teigen speaks to Violet Wilder about becoming a role model for mothers everywhere 62 PUSH IT REAL GOOD Rebecca Moore rounds up her favourite new wheels to hit the road with over the next 12 months 65 PARTY TIME: MOTHER’S DAY Make plans to celebrate your first Mother’s Day with these extraspecial ideas from Carole Middleton 66 SLEEP RIGHT Worried about the clock change?

Louise Pyne offers her troubleshooting guide to bedtime setbacks

37

70 A ROUGH PATCH Georgina Blaskey looks into children’s sensitive and eczema-prone skin 74 WHEN THE CRYING WON’T STOP Becky Dickinson offers hope for parents whose babies are suffering from colic

STYLE

42 SPRING FEVER Key wardrobe staples to see baby into the new season 52 THE BRIGHT SIDE Block colours and bold prints steal the show in our spring maternity wear edit

SHOPPING

23 BABY LOVES Mother’s Day is for mums-to-be, too!

And we’ve got the perfect treat for you...

We round up the cutest keepsakes and stylish finds for Mother’s Day on p.37

25 SHOP THE THEMES Whatever your nursery style, say hello to spring with this season’s latest offerings 37 MUMMY DEAREST A few of the best spoil-me hints to drop in the lead-up to Mother’s Day

FOOD & TRAVEL

85 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest treats for babies, children and parents 86 SPRING DELIGHTS Infant nutritionist Alice Fotheringham shares her favourite family recipes for this time of year 91 TRAVEL NEWS Fancy heading somewhere warm? Check out the newest escapes and products for young families 92 POSTCARD FROM CORNWALL Rebecca Moore heads for a short family break on Cornish sands

baby-magazine.co.uk | 5

62 Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Acting Editor Rebecca Moore Online Editor Jennifer Read-Dominguez Sub Editors Laura Sutherland, Natalie Keeler Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Freelance Designers Matt Bookman, Maggie Bonner Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West Publishing Director Paul Rayner Director of Media James Dobson Advertisement Director Lyndal Beeton Head of Market Julie Price Senior Sales Executive Miranda Gyamfi Ma Sales Executive Emma Cain Digital and Creative Solutions Manager Ben Leek

94 CITY PLEASE? Got the New Year travel bug? Here’s Jo Caird’s guide to city breaks with baby

REGULARS

15

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small 19 WIN! A LUXURY STROLLER Worth £495, this stylish pushchair from Silver Cross and Marie-Chantal could be yours to keep 20 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY What’s happening in the UK this March 33 MY ESSENTIALS Singer-songwriter Jessie Ware reveals all about her new children’s clothing range 38 MOTHERLY LOVE Emma O’Donovan rounds up the best books to celebrate Mother’s Day 51 LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month 59 DIARY OF A MUM In Joanna Ellner’s latest instalment, she and baby Noah decide to cry it out

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Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin

Jessie Ware re veals how she’s finding pregnancy seco nd time round (p.33)

60 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus we put the Nuna Demi Grow pushchair to the test 69 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS The latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing 73 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert talks through the benefits of acupuncture treatment during pregnancy 77 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Can you continue breastfeeding while on medication? Professor Amy Brown reveals all 78 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt address the rumours around being induced for labour 80 THE REVIEW With rainy days inside on the horizon, Laura Mason puts five of the very best baby bouncers to the test 83 INTERIOR NEWS Stylish and inspiring finds for your home 96 BOUTIQUES Our pick of the most beautiful baby boutiques nationwide 98 INSPIRE We chat to Sinead and Adam Murphy, husband-and-wife co-founders of Shnuggle, about business, balance and clever baby products

Baby is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: baby-magazine.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 Email: baby@chelseamagazines.com BABY (print) ISSN 2516-5178 BABY (online) ISSN 2517-813X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2019 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHER: HELEN MARSDEN MODEL: ARCHIE Archie wears cashmere jumper, £110, Caramel. Cotton shorts, £44, Caramel. Cashmere booties, £34, Olivier Baby. Cotton-mix blanket, £38, Camomile London.

The International Hip Dysplasia Institute acknowledges this baby carrier as a hip healthy product.

Keep them close Introducing You can’t hold your baby all the time. Even though you may want to.

CUDL™ makes it easy to keep baby close and secure, all while keeping your hands free. It’s comfortable and customizable with mesh fabric, padded shoulder straps and waist belt. And the magnetic buckles ensure an easy and secure attachment.

Keep baby facing in and snuggled up starting with an integrated infant booster for newborns, which then easily unzips as your child grows. As baby wants to explore the world, have them face out (up to 18 months) or switch to backpack mode (up to 36 months) for growing toddlers.

Find out more at nuna.eu

Spring is just around the corner, so keep baby comfy yet cool in fun coordinated T-shirts and trousers Two-piece set, £16, mamasandpapas.com China mug £11.50, sophieallport.com

EDITORʼS

LETTER

REBECCA MOORE, ACTING EDITOR

@BabyMagazineUK

@baby_mag_insta

VISIT •

@BabyMagazineUK

E,

#babymagishere

AG

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Hurlingham cot bed £799, teddyone.uk

P-TO-DAT

• B A B Y-

We’d love to see pics of you and your bump, or baby, with our current issue

PU

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Aigle rain boots from £22, melijoe.com

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Eye mask £15, desmondanddempsey.com

A Z I N E .C

O

Toy racing car ¤45, ooh-noo.com

those sleep setbacks on page 66.

In light of getting back some time, if you’ve constantly got a little one glued to you, wouldn’t it be nice to be hands-free again, even just for 10 minutes? Well, we can’t perform miracles but we’ve rounded up the best bouncers that keep baby occupied, safe and happy – plus you’ll get those vital limbs back! Check it out for yourself on page 80.

And if you’ve caught the new-year travel bug but are also worried about how to get around with a tot in tow, Jo Caird’s guide to city breaks with baba on page 94 is a must read. It’ll have you booking that long weekend away in no time at all.

Finally, a big happy Mother’s Day to all those wonderful mums out there – I’m lucky enough to have bagged one of the best – you do a truly fabulous job.

KEE

Weekend changing bag £125, storksak.com

Dare I say that the days are drawing out… or maybe with my ‘new year, new me’ vibe I’m getting better at filling my hours? Either way spring’s on the horizon, I promise. To me, springtime has so much to offer… more daylight, a wardrobe freshen up and one of loveliest Sundays of the year: Mother’s Day. And that’s what this March issue is all about, celebrating motherhood.

One mum that goes against the social media rulebook, and offers up the honest truth about millennial parenting is Chrissy Teigen.

Read all about her pregnancy struggles, family holidays and marriage to singer John Legend on page 54.

We’ve also put together a dreamy wishlist for that all-important Mother’s Day gift; whether you’re treating your own mum or need to give partners a gentle nudge in the right direction, simply flick to page 37 for all the inspo you could need.

Or perhaps, like many tired-out mums, you’d just LOVE a lie-in. We can’t promise you that, but we’d like to help. With the clocks springing forward on 31 March, Louise Pyne offers a troubleshooting guide to banishing

@baby_magazine_uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 9

Where were you born?

Bromley, Greater London.

Where do you live now?

As above – I haven’t flown far from the nest!

Favourite thing about spring?

The lighter mornings, budding trees and that first hit of sunshine on your bare skin. Heaven!

Planning to spoil mum on Mother’s Day? She’s easily pleased, so a hearty meal out with my brother and I should do the trick.

Annie’s interview with Jessie Ware is on p.33

JO CA IR D

EQ ANN I

BECK Y

Where were you born?

Oakham, the East Midlands.

Where do you live now?

North Devon. We relocated four years ago.

Favourite thing about spring?

I love growing my own fruit and veg.

What would be the best Mother’s Day gift?

I know it sounds cheesy, but I feel so grateful to have children that they’re the best gift, really. A lie-in would be nice too though!

Read Becky’s colic advice on p.74

ON, EDITORI AL NT I U

ANT SIST AS

ON, JOURN INS A K IC

T LIS

D

CONTRIBUTORS

RNALIST OU J ,

Where were you born?

I was born in London.

Where do you live now?

Still London – just one postcode away from where I grew up!

Favourite thing about spring?

Talking to my toddler about all the new plants.

What would be the best Mother’s Day gift?

My daughter’s still very little, so I’m hoping my partner will help her get a massage voucher...

Check out Jo’s city break roundup on p.94

-DATE, VI S -TO

When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment to spare, dip in and get your daily digital fix…

E .C

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IT •

KEEP U P

BABY ONLINE

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YM A G A ZI N

Head online to check out our fabulous selection of competitions

We talk about all things pregnancy and parenting

Expert advice from medical professionals to keep parents in the know

H T A B E H T N I S H G U A L E R MO

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Hettie

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ROZ SISSONS

Say hello to the beautiful 10 month old Hettie. She lives in Whitstable, Kent, with mum, dad and two big sisters, Elsie, five, and Martha, two. The three siblings love nothing more than playing and laughing together.

WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY HERE? UPLOAD YOUR FAVOURITE SNAP AT BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK/BABY-OF-THE-MONTH Entries close at 11:59pm on 4 February 2019.

12 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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O .U K E .C

KEEP U P

• BA

YM A G A ZI N

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NEWS

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IT •

baby

NEWS

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

YOGI IN TRAINING

See your little ones get to grips with all sorts of playful poses as they explore Yoga Whale, a wonderful new tale from author and illustrator Sarah Jane Hinder.

Released 5 March 2019, this colourful board book has your toddler meeting a whole host of underwater creatures – from crabs and dolphins to seahorses and jellyfish – while learning 10 simple yet authentic yoga poses. £7.99, Sounds True

CHILDCARE IN LONDON NOW COSTS AN AVERAGE OF £8.60 PER HOUR, MAKING THE CAPITAL THE MOST EXPENSIVE REGION IN THE UK FOR BABYSITTERS AND NANNIES. THE RESEARCH FROM CHILDCARE.CO.UK ALSO FOUND THE SOUTH EAST TO BE AN EXPENSIVE AREA FOR CHILDCARE, AVERAGING OUT AT £7.75 PER HOUR.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 15

NEWS

THE FINE PRINT

Womenswear label Heimstone and children’s brand Catimini have joined forces to create an exclusive collection for SS19. The exciting collaboration has produced gorgeous, contemporary designs with creative prints, as Heimstone founder Alex Petit admits she wanted to create a line that was “both modern and not too childlike”.

The range will be available from 15 February, both online and in store. catamini.com

Bags of style

We’ve always gone a bit weak at the knees for Jem + Bea’s luxury changing bags, and the same can be said for its SS19 collection, which stars three new unisex designs. Great for on the go, the Elliot and redesigned Jamie backpacks have padded backs and straps for extra comfort, while the compact Cici crossbody is the ideal everyday bag. jemandbea.com

WITH MADONNA, BEYONCÉ AND MIRANDA KERR AMONG ITS MANY FANS, MINI RODINI COULDN'T BE MORE POPULAR. AND NOW, THE CHILDRENSWEAR LABEL IS OPENING ITS FIRST UK STORE THIS MARCH IN WESTBOURNE GROVE, LONDON, COMPLETE WITH A SPACE DEVOTED TO FOUNDER CASSANDRA’S FAVOURITE PRINTS FROM ARCHIVED COLLECTIONS. MINIRODINI.COM

FAMILY PORTRAIT Both relatable and amusing, you’ll find it hard to hold back a smile as you flick through Yang Liu’s latest pictogram book, Big Meets Little, which features painfully accurate family observations. Across 128 pages you’ll find a variety of hilariously different perspectives from grownups and kids, including what we like to do when we have spare time on our hands. £10, taschen.com

16 | baby-magazine.co.uk

NEWS

From interiors to Instagram engagement, Lucy has you covered

SUMMER BREEZE As the promise of warm weather and sunny days gradually approaches, you may be dreading the humid summer months if you’re pregnant. That’s why we’re seriously coveting the light and elegant pieces within GeBe Maternity’s spring-summer collection; with a blend of bold block colours, polka dots, stripes and floral prints, these stunning wardrobe essentials are a must on holiday or at your next garden party. gebematernity.com

BEST OF THE BLOGS

Fix up, look sharp There are few things more adorable than dressing up your little man for an occasion, which is why we love the dapper offerings from new kidswear brand Buckle Jr 1922. With wedding season coming up, your sophisticated boy is sure to look the part in the perfectly proportioned Australianmade belts, bow ties, matching pocket square and braces available in more than 20 colours. buckle1922.com

PRETTY GREEN

Eco nappy brand Bambino Mio is now offering a wider range of reusable items in mainstream stores, such as Aldi and Morrisons, making them more accessible than ever before. Alongside reusable wet bags, nappies and changing mats, there’s the new Bug’s Life range, featuring ladybird, dragonfly and grasshopper prints. bambinomio.com

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

IT’S LUCY Lucy lives in Liverpool with her husband and their toddler, Alexander. A self-confessed interiors addict, she’s renovating Pluen Cottage, by the seaside in Morfa Nefyn, North Wales. On her Instagram account, you’ll find plenty of pictures from inside her Victorian home, from the tiled hallway to her son’s gorgeous nursery. Archive blog posts include advice on interior styling, hospitalbag essentials, boosting Instagram engagement and the platform’s algorithm. itslucy.blog

THE HOME EDIT If you’re struggling to get organise your family clutter, let The Home Edit team inspire you. Based in the US, the site was founded by friends Clea and Joanna, with an aim to reinvent trad organising and merge it with design and interior styling. Alongside their at-home services, the blog offers tips on curating your home, a look at their homes, and heaps of storage hacks. You can get your hands on the ultimate tidying guide in March, when their first book comes out. thehomeedit.com

ISABLOG Ross is dad to toddler Isabelle – the website’s namesake. After her birth, he started suffering with postnatal depression, a mental health illness is normally associated with new mums. Ross discusses his experiences on the site, with tips to aid recovery and how to bond with your baby.

This is all interspersed with other aspects of parenthood, from separation anxiety to trying for a second baby, and guest posts by his wife, Rachel. isablog.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 17

BABY’S SOCIAL EDIT When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment to spare, dip in and get your daily fix…

Top tweets

@baby_mag_insta @DRAGONSOFWALTONSTREET

@Arenatweet: A lovely review for ‘I’ll Love You...’ by Kathryn Cristaldi and illustrated by @KristynaLitten in the latest issue of @BabyMagazineUK #kidlit #illustration

@DOTTYDUNGAREES

@TOTTERANDTUMBLE

@ANTIPODREAM

@JOHNLEWISRETAIL

@OphirPR: “A home from home – but with breathtaking views of the glorious County Antrim coastline.” Great inclusion of @cullodenestate in @BabyMagazineUK’s ‘Love Nests’ piece @HastingsHotels @verymerryberry_: Fan of pink?

Fab piece in @BabyMagazineUK full of ‘pinkspiration’ for the New Year.

Featuring our pink rug! #nursery

@BabyMagazineUK

@KENCOPSEYKIDS

@babymagazineuk

@baby_magazine_uk

And introducing the…

We’ve put together a dedicated parenting panel of bloggers and influencers to bring you all the latest celebrity parenting news and reviews, as well as honest and intimate conversations with experts about parenting.

We’ll bring you expert features, Facebook live chats, video reviews, parenting panel events and more, covering all the issues that matter to you. Say hello to our panel at…

baby-magazine.co.uk/parenting-panel

18 | baby-magazine.co.uk

WIN!

COMPETITION

AfromLUXURY STROLLER the Marie-Chantal Silver Cross collection With comfort-led technology, the stylish Marie-Chantal Reflex is perfect for spring park strolls

WORTH £495

T&C’S: COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 26 FEBRUARY

H

ere at Baby HQ we love a good collaboration; and we’re still swooning over the gorgeous partnership between British brand Silver Cross and the irresistibly adorable Marie-Chantal, which launched last summer. As March sees the clocks going forward (hoorah!) it means cosy park strolls are back on the agenda, and to celebrate we’ve teamed up with Silver Cross to give away one fantastic Marie-Chantal Silver Cross Reflex pushchair, plus a luxury wool and cashmere Marie-Chantal pram blanket so you can stroll in the utmost style and comfort.

The stunning Reflex offers standout luxury, from the exclusive vintage-inspired cream chassis to the beautiful grey melange fabrics. Stylish hand-stitched tan leatherette trims and handles, exquisite chrome detailing and a subtle striped piping complete the look. Suitable from birth up to 25kg, the roomy seat and tall back rest are perfect for

growing boys and girls – making Reflex a great allrounder to see you through 2019 and beyond.

While there’s no doubting the look and feel, parents can also expect all the fancy functions that come with pushing a Silver Cross product. Travel and storage is a doddle; when folded down, the chassis is compact, with a one-hand mechanism to pack it away. With built-in Unique Baby Curve™ technology, you can expect extreme comfort for your little one: the ergonomic backrest is breathable with maximum airflow, creating a natural position for baby. There’s also a super-soft memory foam head hugger and baby comfort pad, shoulder pads, crotch pad and waist pad.

To take your darling’s comfort to the next level, the luxury cashmere-wool mix Marie-Chantal blanket will keep them as snug as a bug. Good luck!

To enter, visit baby-magazine.com/competitions baby-magazine.co.uk | 19

There’s much messy fun to be had at the Critters workshop in Cliveden

MARCH

1 MARCH

New arrival

2 CUTE N’ COSY

Cam Cam Copenhagen’s fabulous new spring collection will finally be available from today. Look out for a stunning range of textiles, bedding, nursery accessories and furniture, all inspired by the Art Deco era. camcamcopenhagen.com

Look out for gorgeous new Liewood pieces at Beyond the Stork, including a supersoft towel poncho available in blue grey and dusky pink, ideal for bathtime and beach trips. beyondthestork.co.uk

5 FLIP IT

Frying pans at the ready, folks! Shrove Tuesday’s here, so whether you’re a fan of traditional lemon and sugar, ham and cheese, or chocolate spread and banana, be sure to indulge before Lent begins…

dates for your Liewood towel poncho £48, beyondthestork.co.uk

7 STORY TIME

Today sees the largest celebration of reading across 100 countries, with the 22nd World Book Day. If baby’s a bit of a bookworm, check out our pick of the best reads on p.38, and find local events at worldbookday.com

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

12 SLEEP TIGHT 20 BLOOMING Learn about good sleep habits, day napping and dropping night feeds at The Parent and Baby Coach’s Baby Sleep & Routine workshop from 10.30am today in Wandsworth, London. Visitors will be given sleep plans, tip cards and refreshments. £60 per session, theparent andbabycoach.com

15 GET RED 17 MARCH

Show me

Today’s your last chance to visit the Baby and Toddler Show at Manchester’s Event City, where you can make the most of exclusive offers, goodie bags and expert advice workshops. Kicking off on 15 March at 10am, over 150 brands will be exhibiting.

Tickets from £10, babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

20 | baby-magazine.co.uk

DIARY

Red Nose Day 2017 raised a record-breaking £82m, and even bigger things are expected for this year’s event.

Get involved by purchasing one of the charity’s T-shirts or aprons, available at TK Maxx and HomeSense. £2.50 from each sale goes to the cause. £6.99, comicrelief.com

WONDERFUL

Say hello to warmer days and bright yellow daffodils, as we welcome the first day of spring. We love the Little Bear’s Spring illustrations, a charming new tale from Elli Woollard and Briony MaySmith that celebrates the season. £6.99, Pan Macmillan

27 CRITTER TIME Head to Cliveden in Buckinghamshire for the Critters workshop, where under-fives can have a go at crafts and nature-themed activities.

Booking is essential. £5, nationaltrust. org.uk

29 HIT THE

RIGHT NOTE

Great for under-twos, Wigmore Hall’s Chamber Tots sessions are a wonderful way to introduce your little ones to the magic of musicmaking. Visit the Central London venue today for the On the Farm workshop from 10.15am. From £5, wigmorehall.org.uk

31 CLOCK WORK

Remember, the clocks will go forward in the early hours of this morning to mark the start of British Summer Time – hooray!

The days are getting longer at last.

Disney apron £12.99, comicrelief.com

NEW

HUBB

BRING IT ON

Whether it’s a spontaneous adventure, a shopping spree or even a second child- Bring it on!

Meet the Hubb, your ideal city companion. This spacious, highly comfortable and modular pushchair is ready from birth until your child can walk their own way. With 12 stylish configurations, including a Duo option, no matter what your plans are, you’re ready for anything!

The new Quinny Hubb is available now

Quinny.com

LOVE S

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/THREE.LITTLE.TINKERS

This all-natural candle will help mums-to-be with the very necessary task of unwinding

ETE R NAL FL AME

If you’re a mum-to-be then Mother’s Day is about you too; after all who could be more deserving of a gift than an expectant mother?! Whatever stage you’re at in your pregnancy, it’s a given that you’ll be yearning for some relaxation.

Lovingly created to provide support and balance throughout pregnancy, HYP Candles contains all-natural ingredients hand-poured in England using 100 per cent clean-burning, natural wax and smell divine. Go on, put your feet up!

Calm candle, £25, helpyourpregnancy.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 23

Jeweery made by mums, for mums mercimamanboutique.com Free shipping worldwide

Jellystone teether £9.95, slumber-roo.co.uk

Cotton-blend socks (part of set) £5.99, zara.com

Sproet and Sprout sweatshirt £22, alexandalexa.com From a selection at boden.co.uk

Printed bloomers £18, ceciliabelle.co.uk

Velvet baby carrier £440, shop.artipoppe.com

Bamboo-blend sleepsuit £32.50, babymori.com

CORAL SUPPORT

Bring baby’s wardrobe into 2019 with clothes and accessories in this fresh pink hue Leather shoes £85, minnaparikka.com

Cotton-blend bodysuit £12, mamasandpapas.com

Plush toy £17, jellycat.com

Ooh Noo rocking horse £230, lullabuy.co.uk

Cotton T-shirt £12, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Kids Concept xylophone £17.95, allmamaschildren.com

Sheepskin rug £59, made.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 25

Carrement Beau trousers £25, childrensalon.com

Sebra mobile £47.50, trouva.com

Sproet and Sprout romper £27, alexandalexa.com Early Days Baypods shoes £15, childrensalon.com

From a selection at camomile.london

Denim shirt £70, shop.diesel.com

JEAN DREAMY

Kit out the nursery in a host of baby-blues, from classic denim to chic chambray Grimm’s toy truck £16.95, consciouscraft.uk

Trixie rattle £12.50, kidly.co.uk

Maclaren Quest stroller £195, pramworld.co.uk

Cotton shirt £56, caramel-shop.co.uk

Skirt and top set from £32, boden.co.uk

Smallstuff toy £22.95, coolshop.co.uk

Cam Cam Copenhagen rattle £18, libertylondon.com Storage bag £40, my1styears.com

Play & Learn

Let their imagination run wild and their creativity flow... from writing their name to completing their ďŹ rst piece of homework, our new range is designed to be there for you at every stage.

NEW FOR Follow us @booricollections

Find out more by visiting our website: boori.com/uk

SHOPPING Knitted name sign from £12.50, little-cloud.co.uk

Linen-blend all-in-one £90, stellamccartney.com

Cotton T-shirt from £16, boden.co.uk Cybex highchair £159.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

From a selection at next.co.uk

Ferm Living rattle £29, alexandalexa.com

Spa Tricot romper £38.50, kidefashion.com

SUNNY SIDE UP

Bring cheer to your cherub’s spring days with tropical yellow accents Cotton skirt £16, mamasandpapas.com

Numero 74 bib £12, smallable.com

Plush toy £22.50, noodoll.com Cotton cushion £23.95, camcamcopenhagen.com

Babycook food processor £120, beaba.co.uk

Brio pull-along toy £19, arket.com

Leather shoes from £67, youngsoles.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 29

SHOPPING Life Factory bottle £18, kidly.co.uk Cotton bodysuit £34, vildhouseoflittle.com From a selection at smallable.com Cotton T-shirt from £16, boden.co.uk

Best Years rattle £12, trotters.co.uk

Digital thermometer £9.99, safety1st.com

GRASS ROOTS

Mayoral jumpsuit £29, childrensalon.com

Personalised A4 print £18, buddyandbear.com

Celebrate that spring has finally sprung by dressing your little one in the freshest greens Frilled tunic from £10, next.co.uk

Kids Concept stacking rings £18.95, scandiborn.co.uk Babybjörn bib £9, alexandalexa.com

Boys&Girls trousers £20, our-kid.co.uk

Easy Peasy shoes £44, smallable.com

Wooden changing table £560, camcamcopenhagen.com

Handcrafted nursery furniture that becomes part of the family

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INTERVIEW

The Anyware collection is designed to be gender equal and worn for a longer period Cotton canvas overalls £79, anywarekids.com

Jessie and

hu sband S am have be married fo en r four year s

The family holidayed in India over Christmas

MY ESSENTIALS How did your new clothing range, Anyware, come about?

I met George Redding – she was the Mothercare designer who masterminded Little Bird with Jools Oliver – and we immediately hit it off. It’s always been such a pleasure dressing my daughter [age two] and I’ve learned along the way what works for her. I’d buy these beautiful items but was too scared to put my daughter in them as they were almost too luxurious, and she could only wear them for six months anyway. With Anyware, we wanted to create a premium clothing line that could be used for a longer period of time; cherished pieces to dress up or down, get wear out of and then pass on to a sibling or friend.

And how does the sizing work?

The sizing is one of the things we’re really proud of – kids are different sizes at different ages, so it’s mad to think that two year olds will all fit into the same thing.

The oversized pieces adapt as kids

JESSIE WARE

The singer-songwriter tells us about her new clothing range, her love of cooking and pregnancy the second time round grow: trousers can be rolled up, a dress becomes a shirt...

The pieces are described as gender equal – why was that important to you?

Everyone would always mistake my daughter for a boy – I was dressing her in things that I liked, but I didn’t realise that clothing

can still be quite prescriptive.

We wanted these garments to be shared among siblings with colours that work for everybody.

You’re due to give birth to your second soon – how has this pregnancy been?

I’ve been lucky with both my

pregnancies, but it’s different this time because I haven’t had much time to do yoga and have massages. I don’t think I was holding boxes from around 12 weeks last time and now I’m holding a two-and-a-half-year-old who wants me to carry her up the stairs! I’ve been seeing Gowri Motha, who teaches an ayurvedic approach on prepping for the birth. I was petrified the first time round and thankfully had a really good experience, but this time I can barely remember my due date. I haven’t focused on it as much, which I think is healthy.

Does your daughter understand that’s Smock shirt she has a sibling on £14.99, zara.com the way?

I think she’s starting to! It’s been really helpful as a lot of kids in her nursery have recently become older siblings, so mums are coming in with newborns and Jessie’s daughter comes on tour with her

baby-magazine.co.uk | 33

INTERVIEW

Her daughter is starting to understand that her sibling is on the way Jessie’s daughter is obsessed with the Disney film Moana at the moment Moana soundtrack CD £5.99, store.hmv.com

making a fuss over the toddlers. She likes babies and is obsessed with her doll, but I don’t know what she’s going to think when this kid turns up.

Cotton harem pants £65, anywarekids.com trousers £xxx, website

How do you dress your bump?

I don’t really wear maternity clothing, but I like Zara’s mum range because a lot of the stuff isn’t maternity, it’s just roomy. Cos always serves me so well – I’ve just been buying trousers two sizes bigger. I’ve got these Citizens of Humanity maternity trousers that I absolutely adore, and empire-line Ghost dresses have been great for red-carpet events.

Where do you like to shop for your daughter?

Cos and Zara are wonderful for her too, and I love the Smallable outlet for a bargain. Caramel’s amazing but that’s more like window shopping! My favourite thing is when an auntie or a friend

34 | baby-magazine.co.uk

knits her a lovely cardigan.

Have you found a healthy worklife balance?

I think I really struggled if I’m being honest. I think I rushed going back too early with the last record, but I felt like I needed to prove I could do everything. I’m still working it out and I’m trying my hardest, but I don’t think I’ll ever feel like I’ve got it right.

How do you treat yourself when you’ve got time alone?

Watch crappy TV! I’m watching You on Netflix at the moment.

I adore massages, and I cook as well – I find it really therapeutic.

I wish I could get to the cinema and read more but sometimes you just want to switch off.

roast, but she’s very particular about nothing touching. She’s just learnt about chocolate too which is the end of the world – my mum got her a Peppa Pig advent calendar at Christmas, so now she thinks she gets a chocolate a day.

Speaking of cooking, you host the podcast Table Manners, with your mum. Do you try to eat as a family?

We do, and I think my daughter eats better when we eat together.

She’s been really fussy recently and it’s breaking my heart. She’s obsessed with eggs and loves a

Is music a big part of her life?

Yes, she comes on tour with me, which I think has been amazing for her social confidence.

We took her to a Big Fish Little Fish event recently, and the Morning Gloryville party on New Year’s Day – it was real house music rather than just Baby Shark and she loved it! She’s also obsessed with Moana – I have to sing How Far I’ll Go every morning.

It’s taken her a while to like Disney but now she’s into it, which I love.

What’s the best thing about being a mum?

It’s this new kind of love – a scary kind, but undeniable.

INTERVIEW: ANNIE QUINTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/JESSIEWARE

Jessie has always loved dressing her daughter

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SHOPPING

MUMMY DEAREST Here are some spoil-me hints to drop in the lead-up to Mother’s Day...

Little Butterfly London Mother skincare gift set £89.95, harrods.com

Elwood backpack £140, tibaandmarl.com

Flowers letterbox biscuit £9, biscuiteers.com

Fingerprint charm necklace from £165, philippaherbert.co.uk

Fortnum’s alphabet mug £16, fortnumandmason.com

Personalised sterling silver bracelet £59, littlestarjewellery.com

Olivia von Halle silk pyjamas £395, harrods.com

Esmie large photo album £55, libertylondon.com

Baby changing clutch bag £49, seraphine.com

The Wisley bouquet from £50, wildabout.co.uk

Personalised family keyring from £49, mercimamanboutique.com

Green Regime beauty box £75, greenpeople.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 37

Motherly

LOVE

Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P H ER FAVOU RITE BOOKS TO CELEBR ATE MOTH ER’S DAY

WITH YOUR PAW IN MINE

By Jane Chapman Dip and dive underwater with an adorable otter family as they keep each other safe at sea. A breathtaking educational tale of belonging and bonds that last a lifetime. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

BOOKS

This comforting mummy read celebrates identity and acceptance

A KISS FOR YOU

By Patricia Hegarty and Laura Barker With candy-hued illustrations, this lift-the-flap rhyming story is charming. Each page reveals touching moments between animals and their offspring. £7.99, Little Tiger Press

THE GIRLS

ILLUSTRATION: JANE CHAPMAN

By Lauran Ace and Jenny Lovlie Every mum should have a copy.

This story inspires children and adults alike to believe that they can achieve anything. £6.99, Caterpillar Books

WHAT MATTERS MOST

By Emma Dodd

A comforting, life-affirming read

that celebrates difference and acceptance. The rhyming text makes this book a delight to read aloud to little ones. £7.99, Templar Publishing

SUPERHERO MUM AND SON

By Timothy Knapman and Joe Berger

A bright board book celebrating magnificent multi-tasking mums everywhere. A fitting salute to mothers and all of their not-sosecret superhero powers. £6.99, Nosy Crow

I WANT MY MUM!

By Tony Ross

Everyone’s favourite royal finds herself in all kinds of situations where only mummy can help, but

separation leads her to discover a newfound independence. £6.99, Andersen Press

READ TO YOUR BABY EVERY DAY

HUGS AND KISSES

Infinite treasured moments are just waiting to be created with this beautiful collection of short stories and poems for parents to share with their babies. £12.99, Lincoln Children’s Books

By Sam Hay and Emma Dodd This two-sided love story unites Octopus and Whale in a romantic oceanic quest for a kiss. This heart-warming adventure comes with a surprise pop-up ending. £7.99, Egmont

By Rachel Williams and Chloe Girodano

FIVE MORE MINUTES

MY MUM ALWAYS LOOKS AFTER ME SO MUCH

Many parents will relate to occasional exasperation of looking after little ones. This humorous observation of family chaos will have both reader and listener in stitches. £12.99, Macmillan

Little gorilla has to be brave on a trip to the doctors and mummy is going to help the only way a big hairy gorilla mummy can. A beautiful, comforting read. £11.99, Quarto

By Marta Altes

By Sean Taylor and David Barrow

baby-magazine.co.uk | 39

PARENTING

APP’iness

Sarah Dawson PICKS TH E BE ST PAR ENTING APPS TO TAKE YOU FROM PR EGNANC Y RIGHT TH ROUGH YOU R BABY ’S E AR LY YE AR S

This comprehensive app is like having your very own midwife in your pocket.

Log in for tailored insights and expert tips to see you through every stage of your pregnancy. You can even see what your baby looks like each week, with incredibly detailed fetal development images and videos.

Free. Available on iOS and Android.

40 | baby-magazine.co.uk

KEGEL TRAINER EXERCISES We’ll cut to the chase – it may not be very glamorous but doing your pelvic floor exercises when you’re pregnant is an absolute must. This clever app sends daily reminders to strengthen your pelvic floor, as well as easy to follow Kegel exercise routines that take less than three minutes. Your pelvic floor will thank you after the birth.

Free. Available on iOS and Android.

BABYNAME Hailed as the Tinder of baby names, this genius app is perfect if you’re struggling to decide on a name with your partner. You both need to download the app, then you can swipe through hundreds of names and if you get a match, it’s saved.

So clever! Why not build up a list of potential monikers to argue over?

Free. Available on iOS and Android.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

BABYCENTRE PREGNANCY TRACKER

PARENTING

SOUND SLEEPER – WHITE NOISE

There are now more handy mum-hack apps at your fingertips than ever before

If you’re struggling to get your baby to sleep, this app is a dream come true. Packed with a huge choice of white noise, including fan, vacuum cleaner, rain and womb noises, as well as soothing nature sounds and lullabies, it works like magic to get your baby to fall asleep – and vitally – stay asleep.

Free. Available on iOS and Android.

CLOUD BABY MONITOR Perhaps you don’t want to lug your baby monitor on holiday, or you’re visiting friends for the weekend? Then this app is the one for you. Cloud Baby Monitor turns any two Apple devices into a two-way video baby monitor. Set one up in baby’s room and keep the other with you, for crystal-clear audio and live video. Technology, hey? £3.99 on iOS.

MUSH If you’re new to an area or haven’t got any friends with babies, maternity leave can feel a bit lonely. But that’s where Mush comes in. The app helps you find like-minded mums with kids the same age as you, chat online and organise local meet-ups.

Think of it as a fun, social network for mums!

Free. Available on iOS and Android. meet like-minded local mums

HOOP Struggling with ideas on what to do and where to go with your baby?

Hoop makes it easy to find and book local activities that are suitable for children, from newborns right up to 11-year-olds. It’s really useful to find nearby baby and toddler groups, as well as special kid-friendly events – perfect for keeping the inevitable weekend and school holiday boredom at bay.

Free. Available on iOS and Android.

THE WONDER WEEKS This multi-award-winning app is based on the international bestseller, The Wonder Weeks®. Backed up by impressive scientific research, the app helps track your baby’s mental development and leaps through the first 20 months. A lifesaver for parents wondering who swapped their chilled-out baby for one who refuses to sleep! £2.99 on iOS and £2.19 on Android.

BABYTIME The ultimate baby-tracking app.

Here, you can log your baby’s sleep, nappy changes and feeds, so you can spot trends and help start a good routine. It’s also super-helpful for sleep-deprived breastfeeding mums, who can’t remember which side the baby last fed on, or for how long. We’ve all been there! £1.99 on iOS.

BUBBLE Whether you’re looking for an evening sitter for date night, or some daytime help if you’re trying to juggle working from home, Bubble is an easy way to book brilliant, recommended babysitters.

Every babysitter on the app is insured and background checked, plus you can read their reviews before you decide to book.

Free. Available on iOS and Android.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 41

THIS PAGE: Bonnie-Beau wears cotton blouse, £70, Caramel. Cashmere bonnet, £36, Olivier Baby. Cotton cushion, £25, Nobodinoz at Nubie.

RIGHT PAGE: Archie wears cotton all-in-one, £54, Pepa & Co. Cotton Peter Pan collar bodysuit, £29, Pepa & Co. Cotton blanket, £84, Camomile London.

Spring fever

PHOTOGR APHY: H ELEN MAR SDEN ST YLING: KELLIE DAGGE T T

THIS PAGE: Thea wears cotton bodysuit, £29, Pepa & Co. Cotton romper, £22, Boden.

Cotton cushion with pompoms, £25, Nobodinoz at Nubie. Cotton cushion, £24, Camomile London.

Cotton cushion, £21, Camomile London.

RIGHT PAGE: Freya wears silk bloomers, £28, Belle Enfant.

Cashmere cardigan, £110, Caramel.

Merino rug, £70, Sew Heart Felt at Bobby Rabbit. Cotton blanket, £84, Camomile London. Cotton cushion, £21, Camomile London.

LEFT PAGE: Thea wears cotton top (part of gift set), £70, Caramel. Cotton leggings, £46, Belle Enfant. Cashmere bonnet, £39, Olivier Baby. Cotton blanket, £59.95, Cam Cam Copenhagen at Scandiborn. Cotton-mix cushion, £34, Camomile London.

THIS PAGE: Jordan wears knitted sweater and bloomers set, £64, Pepa & Co. Cotton cushion, £23.95, Cam Cam Copenhagen at Scandiborn.

THIS PAGE: Cameron wears linen shirt (part of a set), £122, Il Gufo. Linen romper, £59, Caramel. Cotton-mix blanket, £38, Camomile London. Woven cotton blanket, £99, Camomile London. Cotton-mix cushion, £34, Camomile London.

RIGHT PAGE: Freya wears embroidered cotton playsuit, £195, Chloé at Childrensalon. Cashmere bonnet, £36, Olivier Baby. Cashmere booties, £34, Olivier Baby.

Cotton cushions, £23.95 each, Cam Cam Copenhagen at Scandiborn.

Cotton cushion, £22, Camomile London.

Cotton-mix blanket, £38, Camomile London.

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BABY TALK

M

y dream Mother’s Day would start with breakfast in bed with my whole family. My son makes the world’s best eggs to order! Then we’d all snuggle down, watch cartoons and read the papers. After that, a long walk with the dogs and back for more food.

Food’s high up on the agenda on a day dedicated to mums! We love cooking together as a family and my go-to comfort food has to be a good baked potato with cheese, beans, tuna and coleslaw. I ate one every day at school and it’s still my absolute favourite. I’d spend the afternoon at Cotswold Wildlife Park, followed by tea at Huffkins – which does the most delicious Lardy Cake, – then roll home for games before bed. Perfect!

Oli & Carol teether, £14, smallable.com

One of my son’s first words was ‘nana’ and when I found this teether, it made me smile so much. He can never see the difference between this and a real one and it either makes me laugh or a bit angry, if he’s hungry. It’s handmade, hand painted and eco-friendly.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

WHERE TO GO

I’m going to take my three kids to Cotswold Wildlife Park for the penguin feeding. It’s so much fun and there’s loads to do. It’s a pretty regular feature in my calendar from March onwards and from April, they usually have an amazing train that circulates the whole zoo, so you almost feel like you’re on safari! cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Leo’s

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

The Wondering Workshop stacking toy, £35, mollymeg.com

I love this stacking and balancing toy. It’s a great educational piece which stimulates imagination and fine motor skills. It’s made of Beachwood and finished with non-toxic paint.

Benefit Super Natural Brows by Anna Saccone, £49.50, selfridges.com

My friend Anna has the world’s best brows and if I can look anything like as good as her, I’m ready to give this kit a go!

baby-magazine.co.uk | 51

STYLE

THE BRIGHT SIDE

The days of heading out without a coat may be some way off, but spring is finally here! Whether you’re styling your first bump or putting together a post-baby wardrobe, our edit of vibrant layers will carry you through the next few months

Silver ring £75, annalouoflondon.com

Print blouse £29.99, zara.com

Print wrap dress £45, mamalicious.com

Leather purse £695, jasperconranshop.com

Don’t be afraid to make a statement with your post-maternity style, Hilary Duff rocks double denim complete with coordinating baby!

Maternity jeans £40, topshop.com

Isabel Marant earrings £191, farfetch.com

Pucci scarf £285, harrods.com

WHETHER IT’S KEEPING YOU TOASTY OR SHADING THE BUGGY FROM THE SUN, A LARGE SCARF IS A SPRING ESSENTIAL Leather boots £85, office.com

Satin maternity skirt £22.99, newlook.com

52 | baby-magazine.co.uk

STYLE

Tailored dress £109, seraphine.com

Alpaca wrap coat £1085, sentaler.com

MEGHAN'S ACTUAL COAT AND SHOES!

Make like Meghan in bold block colours. Long silhouettes are flattering shape for burgeoning bumps

Suede stilettos £485, stuartweitzman.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUG PETERS/PA IMAGES; REX.

Séraphine top £39, johnlewis.com

A BUTTONED-UP COAT WILL WORK FOR YOUR ALL YOUR NEEDS, FROM PREGNANCY THROUGH TO NURSING AND BEYOND

Adidas Originals trainers £91, mytheresa.com

Regina Pyo trench coat £595, harrods.com Beaded necklace £15, marksandspencer.com

Maternity jumper £32, topshop.com

Lozenge bag £35, cathkidston.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 53

INTERVIEW

54 | baby-magazine.co.uk

INTERVIEW After Miles’ birth last summer, the couple took their family to Bali for a ʻcleanseʼ

Clear as

Chrissy

RIPPING U P TH E SOCIAL M EDIA RU LEBOOK , Chrissy Teigen HAS BECOM E A BE ACON OF H ON E ST OP TIMISM FOR MOTH ER S AN D PROSPEC TIVE MUMS-TO -BE ALL OVER TH E WOR LD. VIOLE T WILDER FIN DS OUT MOR E

few decades from now, when Chrissy Teigen decides to take a backseat from a showbiz world that, even in her early 30s, has consumed over half of her life, it’ll be interesting to note what she becomes mostly remembered for. Being a model? A friend to the Kardashians? Or maybe as the wife of one of the planet’s best-known musicians. Perhaps it won’t be any those things at all – maybe the way we’ll recall the 33-year-old Utah-born beauty as someone who, in a fiercely private world, was willing to speak up.

“The other day, I heard someone refer to me as the saviour of celebrity pregnancy,” begins Chrissy. “I found that really funny. I mean, it’s lovely, but all I’ve done is speak from the heart, as that’s what felt natural for me.”

Speaking from the heart is one thing, but baring all on her path to parenthood – through infertility heartbreak, IVF treatment, physical and mental pain, and the rebuffing of a barrage of internet trolls – is something else.

“I think at first I just wanted to vent a little about some of the stuff that was going on,” she says. “It was healthy for me to be able to do that and I gained a lot from the experience.

But as things went on, I found myself becoming an advocate for a positive but realistic approach to pregnancy, and it didn’t matter if the person reading it was trying for their first baby or last, if they were in the US or abroad – it just felt good to think we, as a community across the world, could help each other.”

A

After speaking out about her path to motherhood, Chrissy has become an advocate for a realistic approach to pregnancy

Luna and Miles were both conceived via IVF

baby-magazine.co.uk | 55

INTERVIEW

Chrissy says that quality time at home with husband John is precious for their family

Teigen admits the early days were difficult.

“It wasn’t nice having to deal with all kinds of people asking John and I when we’d be having children. Lots of people go through what we went through all the time, so I knew that they’d appreciate the situation. The fact is we would have had kids five or six years ago if it’d happened, and I was struck by the insensitivity of asking that us that, when they have no idea what’s going on in the background. I guess that inspired me to speak up even more.”

Four years on, the challenges of falling pregnant have been replaced by those of bringing up a family. Luna Simone Stephens, who is two, arrived in April 2016, while son Miles will have his first birthday this May. Both were born via IVF, and you’ll no doubt spot the ventured off with Miles and Luna to Bali for a music links in their names, referencing icons ‘cleanse’. “For me, I just wanted to eat healthily Nina Simone and Miles Davis. again. I wanted to move and feel free. I hadn’t “Being a mum has been everything I hoped worked out since I’d given birth, and was it’d be,” Chrissy says. “It’s the quiet moments, slowly getting back into Pilates and figuring but we also love showing our children the out my body again, working out how to get world; that has been really special, particularly back to a better mental state. I think we’ve all places like aquariums and zoos where they’re felt like that.” just in awe of what they see.

Motherhood has, by “Luna is lucky too Chrissy’s own admission, because she’s at the age made her a more rounded where she gets to go person. Things she rarely backstage with us. She cared about in the past hasn’t gone to one of her – like White House policy – dad’s shows yet, but I know are now at the forefront of she’s excited about that.

“And at-home time John is great at with John is so precious. changing and feeds He has always been great with changing and feeding, although his bathtime serenades were not as successful as they should have been! I loved chipping away at this veil of perfection he has to his fans… that was a lot of fun, even if he is really perfect, after all.”

Of course, there’s still a little celebrity pampering that goes into how this couple look after their family. Last July the couple

ALL I’VE DONE IS SPEAK FROM THE HEART, AS THAT’S WHAT’S FELT NATURAL FOR ME

56 | baby-magazine.co.uk

her mind as she looks to ensure the America her daughter grows up in is as safe and fair as possible. She’s also embraced cooking, and even admits early-morning feeds made her business aims all the more efficient.

“I’ve become so much more domesticated,” she laughs. “It’s me, just a slicker version! When I was doing the promotion for my cookbook a month after giving birth to Luna, it was a godsend that I was up early. Beforehand, I’d have struggled to get up for 4.30am – the sort of time you need to be up for those earlymorning shows. And yet, there I was, finding myself awake at those hours naturally.”

Overall though, the message from someone who rebelled so perfectly against the celebrity ideal of saying a lot but revealing very little, is do things your own way.

“Only you know best for your child and if you stick together as a couple and invest everything in your family, there’s nothing more that can be expected of you. Sure, we have criticism – we went out for an evening meal, for an hour, soon after Luna was born, and it was everywhere. It was unbelievable.

“But I say, ‘happy mommy, happy daddy, and happy life’, and how can that be wrong?”

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/CHRISSYTEIGEN; GETTY IMAGES/STEVE GRANITZ/WIREIMAGE; EMMA MCINTYRE/GETTY IMAGES FOR FAMILIES BELONG TOGETHER LA); WENN RIGHTS LTD / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Being a mother is everything Chrissy hoped it would be

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58 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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BABY TALK

.19, 6.23, 6.26, 6.32,… No, I’m not plotting the coordinates of Everest, I’m recording the times I go to calm Noah, while she cries her heart out. Somehow, writing it down saves me from bursting into Noah’s room, scooping her up and depositing her back in my bed.

She’s six months old and we’re now sleep training.

As I mentioned last month, we’d fallen into co-sleeping and I’d become attached to having this fleshy hot water bottle by my side each night. The thought of banishing her to another room – her room – but still, a room she doesn’t much know, is a dagger in my heart. And yet, I know bed-sharing’s unsustainable. I also know, based on cursory research, that the longer we leave it, the harder it’ll be to stop.

I remember a book I’d stashed at the back of a cupboard, hoping, I suppose, that I’d never need it. The bond I’d have with my child would be such that I could merely hold her in my arms and she’d intuitively know it was time to sleep for 10+ hours. All this is, of course, hokum. It was simply another thing I was setting myself up to fail at. Babies thrive on structure. Scratch that, humans

THE GOOD STUFF

6

Lipikar Gentle Cleansing Oil, £10, laroche-posay.co.uk Baby skin isn’t immune to the drying effects of winter wind and central heating. I’ve been using this gentle oil in Noah’s bath to help soothe a little patch of parched skin.

So warm, so snug…

Wouldn’t it be great if they came in adult sizes? Oh wait, they do!

Bravo to Binibamba for these winter booties of dreams. Binibamba Merino Wool Booties, £36, binibamba.com

DIARY OF A MUM part 8

Noah is rolling over and sitting up, albeit in a slightly wobbly manner.

This jigsaw-style mat lends comfort and insulation against cold wooden floors. Sebra Playmat, £59.95, scandiborn.co.uk

IN H ER L ATE ST IN STALM ENT Joanna Ellner AN D BABY N OAH CRY IT OUT thrive on structure. Why else would we have invented days of the week, January sales and the Sunday soap omnibus? We like to know where we are with things.

And we just need to grit our teeth a bit to get used to a new routine.

The book? The Sensational Baby Sleep Plan by Alison Scott-Wright. No impenetrable anthropology, just the stuff you need to know, in digestible prose, because, frankly, that’s all a sleepless new mother can master.

It is, essentially, a form of crying it out. Here’s how it went: NIGHT ONE – Ed’s at a work dinner, Noah cries for 40 minutes before going to sleep and wakes four times. I go in to to use my ‘reassurance phrase’ – “Night night, it’s SLEEPYTIME Noah, night night”, 17 times.

Sounds like a lot. Felt oddly manageable. NIGHT TWO – Noah

cries for 25 minutes, working up to a blood-curdling shriek. I repeat the reassurance phrase three times, stroking her head and back. She wakes twice, my visits to calm her total 13. NIGHT THREE – 10 minutes of crying and she’s curled up on her side, fast asleep. She doesn’t wake until 5.45am. Ideally, she’d have slept ’til 7am like in the book, but this still feels like a monumental victory.

And here’s the bring-out-thesancerre-amazing part: the whole thing took three days. We used the same method to lock in three daily naps, with patchier success, but now, on the other side of Christmas, we’re in our groove.

Sleep, along with how you choose to feed your baby, is the most contentious aspect of motherhood. Some will tell you that they didn’t bother with sleep training, because “he just sort of trained himself,” You’ll want to run them over with your pram.

Others will say they couldn’t put their baby through crying it out, it seems so… “barbaric.” Also hugely unhelpful. And one might say, “it’s a total life saver, it worked for us in three days.” This is me. I want to plaster it on the side of a bus. New mums need to know it gets better. And that a tiny bit of tough love can sometimes be the kindest thing of all.

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TOT GEAR

IN A SPIN

Joie’s got us in a spin with its latest addition the i-Spin 360, the brand’s first i-Size rotating car seat rearward-facing to four years, and with auto-engaging side impact protection, the i-Spin 360 makes a great option for parents looking for a swivel car seat packed with safety features. We love the six recline positions allow newborns to lie as flat as possible, as recommended by the Lullaby Trust, promoting healthy spine and lung development. £300, joiebaby.com

tot gear

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

PERSONAL TOUCH The hugely popular Joolz Day3 is now fully customisable through the Joolz Tailor service. Parents can pick the fabric, chassis and wheels, and even an accent shade. With 20 hues to choose from, add a splash of colour to the bumper and handle bars. You can even have your child’s name laser engraved into the bumper bar for a truly personalised ride. £1119, my-joolz.co.uk

THAT’S A WRAP! Chicco’s new Boppy ComfyFit carrier is a super-easy way to wear your baby – click, strap, tie and go. Between a wrap and semi-rigid carrier, it’ll keep your little one correctly supported, plus it’s approved by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. Use parent facing up to six months and outward facing from six months. £50, chicco.co.uk

Popular pushchair brand BabyStyle, has just welcomed a car seat to the family: the Carapace i-Size collection. The Carapace Toddler i-Size and the Duofix i-Size base, together offers rearward-facing comfort and safety up to around four years old.

Oyster Carapace Toddler i-Size £149, Carapace Duofix i-Size Base £100, babystyle.co.uk

SHOPPING FOR YOUR FIRST PUSHCHAIR? HEAD TO THE BABY SHOW AT LONDON EXCEL 1-3 MARCH, WHERE YOU CAN TEST-DRIVE HUNDREDS OF PRODUCTS, WITH OVER 30 PUSHCHAIR BRANDS EXHIBITING THERE. TICKET PRICES FROM £14.70, THEBABYSHOW.CO.UK

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REVIEW

THE REVIEW

Laura Harris U PGR ADE S FROM A SINGLE PUSH CHAIR TO A DOU BLE AS SH E PUTS TH E N U NA DEMI GROW TH ROUGH ITS PACE S

H

aving recently had my second daughter and moved to the Cotswolds, I found my much-loved Stokke Xplory was no longer suitable. The countryside terrain made it tricky to manoeuvre, and the added sibling board on the back meant I was about three feet away from the pushchair!

A double buggy was the way forward; I didn’t want a bulky side-by-side design but I wanted all the features that I’d loved in the Stokke, such as the adjustable handlebar, table-friendly height, varied reclining positions and easy folding. I also didn’t want a double buggy that left my two-and-a-half year old cramped, lying on the floor or stuck behind the top seat with no view. With these factors in mind, we opted for the Nuna Demi Grow.

While Mia snoozes, E vie can pre she’s in her tend very own g o-kart!

GOOD LOOKING I think it looks super stylish. I love the colour – we went for Aspen, a shade close to dark denim which has proved to hide all the marks and spillages well. It also doesn’t look like a cumbersome buggy as it’s pretty slick and compact, even with both seats in position.

The Nuna Demi Grow was a breeze for Laura to assemble

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVEABILITY With the assistance of a Youtube video, assembly was a breeze! The wheels clicked in and the frame folds out as you’d expect while the seat slots straight on top. When I first added in the second seat my older daughter, Evie, found it so exciting – it was like she was in her own little go kart. It also looks super

The girls feel comfy, safe and secure

comfy, and still allows seat and foot rest adjustments to both, plus she can pop her head up to check on her baby sister. It offers lots of settings to cater for the multiple variances involved in strolling with two small children: one asleep, one awake, both asleep, both awake.

So far it’s been brilliant on all terrains, a little heavy when both children are in the seat and you’re lifting over a step or kerb, but what double wouldn’t be? There isn’t really anywhere for bags to hang easily on the handle when both seats are being used. When I’m just using it with Mia, there’s plenty of storage at the base, but of course this is replaced by the seat when Evie is in cargo too. I really like the

The double pushchair is also available in stylish Frost grey

magnetic mesh ‘windows’ so that I can look through the hood of the seat at any time.

COMFORT My daughters seem to love it! They’re comfy, protected and safe, especially with footmuffs attached. My younger daughter, Mia, is almost at head height when facing me and can see out even when rear facing, while Evie, can see out to the side and through the front even on the bottom seat – it feels like she’s still got her independence in the bottom seat too.

THE VERDICT So far the Nuna ticks all the boxes for our family of four. We’re loving it!

From £600, nuna.eu/uk

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TOT GEAR

Push it real good

Rebecca Moore ROU N DS U P TH E BE ST N EW WH EEL S TO HIT TH E ROAD WITH IN 2019

Nuna MIXX

Nuna has just released its new and improved Nuna MIXX pushchair. Fancy upgrades include a no re-thread harness for custom adjustments and an all-season seat – which can easily be flipped and switched to the additional carrycot or connected to PIPA series car seat. Choose from Aspen, Birch and Caviar, all matching the luxe leatherette-accented handle and bumper bar beautifully.

From £450, nuna.eu

Mutsy Nio

Last year Dutch brand Mutsy added the Nio to its fleet, and this spring sees the launch of the Explore edition. With the design revolving around adventure, its lightweight frame, integrated sun canopy and robust design, means exploring is second nature. The backrest and leg support on the Nio seat can be fully adjusted to multiple positions, including an ergonomic sleeping position: the flattest lying position from the Mutsy group. Add to that the robust wheels with extra tread and suspension and the world’s your oyster! £639 mutsy.com

Quinny Hubb

January 2019 saw the release of the Quinny Hubb, a spacious, comfortable and completely modular pushchair. Since releasing the new-look Zapp X in 2017, the brand’s been turning heads with its cool designs. The Hubb is totally flexible; just add one of the matching from-birth solutions, extra storage or even a second seat! And with six stylish colours to choose from, you’re sure to find the one for you. From £629, quinny.com

62 | baby-magazine.co.uk

TOT GEAR

With its latest innovations, the Cybex Mios and Priam offer style and substance

Cybex Priam and Mios

Cybex has always been a strong contender in the pushchair department, but its latest invention has got us well and truly weak at the knees. Available in both the Priam and the Mios, the rosegold offers a new level of aesthetic superiority. Looks aside, the new model offers improved functionality too. We’re loving the LITE Cot; a new lightweight mobile travel attachment for the new Mios and Priam. Use from birth, up to approximately four years. For the first few months it’s a newborn cot and later as a windstopper. It folds with the stroller too, for a quick, space-saving storage. From £499.95, cybex-online.com

Silver Cross Coast

Known for its traditional styling, Silver Cross’ latest pushchair release, Coast, sees the brand taking a slightly new direction.

This contemporary-luxe pushchair pairs a matt-black chassis with premium textured fabrics, available in Limestone, Flint and Tundra shades. Fashion aside, parents will enjoy the patented two-height elevated position, which keeps baby that little bit closer to you. £950, silvercrossbaby.com

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#18

February 10-12

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Paper bunting £4.99, partypieces.co.uk

PARTIES

Treat mum with something that’s made to last, so she’ll remember this special day forever

DECOR

Pink florals make for a pretty afternoon tea

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PARTIES

with Carole Middleton

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MOTHER’S DAY

Mini cake domes (pack of six) £9.99, partypieces.co.uk

4 P&T Perfect Day tea £17, harrods.com

5

Make plans to celebrate your very first Mother’s Day with these extra-special ideas

Y

our first Mother’s Day will be one that you never forget – so why not mark the occasion? You may just want to commemorate the day at home with your new little one (ideally with breakfast in bed and a guilt-free afternoon nap!) or you may want to call upon your friends and family for a fun get-together. However you choose to celebrate, mum gets to decide! So do what makes you happiest.

Afternoon tea is making a comeback – think dainty sandwiches, cakes and scones – and is perfect for such an occasion, particularly if you’re hosting for other mum friends with children because you can keep it as informal as you like. Decorate the table with fresh flowers and mismatched crockery – or pretty paper equivalents make an inexpensive and child-friendly alternative.

Take the time to get crafty with some fun activities. Handand footprint pictures, embellished memory boxes and decorated vases of flowers are all lovely ways to spend time with baby – and they make great gifts for grandmas!

Eton Mess cupcakes (a dozen) £34, crumbsanddoilies.co.uk

6 1. Royal Pip teapot £50, amara.com 2. Plant subscription from £25, geo-fleur.com 3. Mondaine watch £175, ariashop.co.uk 4. Breathe by Jean Hall £7.99, afternoah.com 5. Monogram canvas bag £195, raefeather.com 6. Cosonuova necklace £107, wolfandbadger.co.uk

Teapot vase £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

Finally, don’t forget to document the day.

Capture photos of the little ones, snap selfies and ask loved ones to take photos of you reading and playing with baby. You could also get them printed and made into a photo book for the coffee table, along with their art handiwork!

Paper plates (pack of eight) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

Paper plates (pack of 12) £3.49, partypieces.co.uk

PARENTING

Daytime napping is important, but every baby’s snooze schedule is different so tailor your routine to her

Sleep right

SOLVE NIGGLING NAPPING AN D BEDTIM E SE TBACKS WITH OU R TROU BLE SHOOTING GUIDE, SAYS Louise Pyne

66 | baby-magazine.co.uk

PARENTING

aby’s sleep pattern is one of the biggest issues that new mums face, and just when you thought you’d managed to get your baby into some sort of sleep routine, the changing of the clocks goes and jolts her natural rhythm. “Her internal body clock controls when she releases the hormones that keep her active and alert and the hormones that help her wind down into sleep. This internal clock is regulated by signals in her daily routines. Unfortunately, when the clocks move forward or back, this has no effect on your baby’s internal body clock,” explains paediatrician Dr Tamara Bugembe. This means that it can take time for her routine to sync with the one-hour time change, but don’t worry, she’ll gradually adapt.

And if your child’s generally super-sensitive when it comes to sleepy time, you may be struggling with a whole host of sleep woes.

Here we share the essential tips that’ll help you get your little one’s slumber time safely back on track.

B

NIGHT-TIME WAKING If your child’s got into the habit of waking in the middle of the night, it may be because she’s fallen into a habit of relying on certain sleep rituals. “This could be the presence of a parent or a back rub, and when she wakes in the middle of the night she is likely to need the same sleep ritual to fall back to sleep, so she’ll cry out or come looking for the parent or back rub in order to fall back to sleep,” explains Tamara.

You’ll need to try and break any habits and establish a sleep routine that works for your bub. “Gradually pulling back your involvement and showing them ways they can achieve the same comfort independently, such as hugging a teddy instead of mummy, will make it easier for them to soothe themselves back to sleep when they wake in the middle of the night,” shares Tamara.

AN INCONSISTENT ROUTINE

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

If you’re finding it difficult getting your child to go to bed at the same time each night, it might be due to her daytime structure. “Her brain relies on signals from the daytime routine to know when to release certain hormones.

That’s why she gets hungry at certain times of the day, and craves movement and activity at others,” says Tamara. Children thrive on routine so try to create a predictable pattern to her day. “Try to ensure that meals happen at around the same time every day, make sure that exposure to fresh air and exciting play time happens in predictable and consistent ways to help your child’s body clock release the sleep hormone at the same time most evenings,” continues Tamara.

OVERDOING NAP TIME Daytime napping is an important part of a baby’s schedule and is individual to each and every child. Snoozing during the day will help set up her mood and energy levels, but if napping is interfering with her evening bedtime routine, it may be because she’s sleeping for too long during the day.

“Children’s sleep patterns are very individual, and not all children take to daytime naps. If your child has long periods of night-time sleep they may not feel the need to nap in the day.

If they tend to sleep in short spurts, they may need one or two naps a day. The quality of sleep is more important than the time spent asleep. Get a sense of your child’s individual sleep requirements using their mood and irritability as an indicator of how much sleep they need and when,” maintains Tamara.

SLEEP SAVIOURS

Rest really is assured with this arsenal of bedtime essentials

Dreami Moses Basket £134.95, shnuggle.com

Ollie the Owl sleep aid £29.99, gro-store.com Mrs Mighetto Sleepyhead Pod £160, harrods.com

DIFFICULTY SETTLING DOWN When your child resists bedtime, it can turn the evening hours into a battle of wills, and in order for your little one to settle at night, she needs to feel comfortable. “There are many things that might be making her uncomfortable. It may be the fabric of her pyjamas, the heaviness of her bedding, the temperature of the room or she may be hungry or thirsty,” believes Tamara. It’s also important to make sure they feel safe. “If they’re afraid of sudden strange noises, use background noise like an audiobook or music to muffle it out. If it’s the dark that frightens them, use a night light to help put their minds at ease,” advises Tamara.

NIGHT-TIME HUNGER Somewhere between four and six months,

WHEN YOUR CHILD RESISTS BEDTIME, IT CAN TURN THE EVENING HOURS INTO A BATTLE OF WILLS

Mori X Central Saint Martins PJ set £31.50, babymori.com Pillow spray £12.99, loveboo.com

your baby will be able to sustain a straight sleeping stretch around five to six hours because she’ll have consumed enough calories during the day to satisfy her needs. But many young babies still wake up during the night out of habit. “When babies get used to having a bottle of milk at night, they will wake up hungry and struggle to settle back to sleep.

After six months of age, this is more of a habit than a biological necessity. Their body gets used to expecting a snack at this time and so the child wakes up hungry,” says Tamara.

Weaning a baby off a night-time bottle can be difficult, but taking things slowly can help to ease the process. “It’s much easier to gradually reduce the volume of the night-time feed by an ounce every two nights and bulk up their last evening feed with a slow-release snack over a period of two weeks,” she continues.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 67

Formulated by Vitabiotics’ nutritional experts, to support the nutritional requirements of babies and young children Contains UK Department of Health recommended levels of vitamin D1

Wellbaby multi-vitamins contain the recommended vitamins A, C and D1

2018-07-09 ADWBYCONP E

Vit D Drops

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Multi-vitamin Liquid

From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores and wellbaby.com 1. The UK Department of Health recommends that all babies from birth until the age of 1 should be given a daily supplement containing 8.5-10mcg of vitamin D and that children from one to 4 years should be given a supplement containing 10mcg Vitamin D. In addition, all infants aged from 6 months to 5 years should be given a supplement containing vitamins A, C and D (Unless they are drinking 500ml (or approx. 1 pint) of infant formula a day, as infant formula has vitamins added to it).

Source: NHS Choices. *UK’s No1 baby supplement brand. Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Unit Sales 52 w/e 24 March 2018.

HEALTH

SKIN DEEP

In need of a little pregnancy pick-me-up? Famed for its natural, organic approach, Unearthd Company has unveiled its Good On You Skin Repair Oil, designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars, while boosting skin elasticity. The oil, which contains 15 natural ingredients, also uses bioactive extract Inca Inchi, which helps to improve the texture and appearance of skin. £24.99, unearthdco.com

PUSH IT REAL GOOD If the prospect of giving birth fills you with dread, Siobhan Miller’s new book explains how to make the experience truly powerful.

Hypnobirthing: Practical Ways to Make Your Birth Better teaches women how to work with their bodies to make labour more efficient and comfortable, with breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, light touch massages and various other methods. £13.99, Piatkus

health & beauty

SLEEP TIGHT With a smart design, the Enchanted Sleeper ensures maximum snoozing comfort. It features a cosy built-in duvet, plus a patented leg divider that ensures she remains sleeping on her back, while still allowing lots of room for movement. We love the handy three-stage popper system that adjusts as baby grows. £89.99, enchantedbabycompany.com

NEWS

TH E L ATE ST PRODUC TS AN D IN N OVATION S IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING WIPE RIGHT Simply Coconuts has expanded its skincare range with new biodegradable wipes. The wipes, which leave baby’s skin soft and replenished, are infused with organic coconut oil and free from any nasty chemicals. Better yet, as they’re biodegradable, they’re kind to the environment. simplycoconuts.co.uk

These eco-friendly wipes are parabens, fragrance and colourant free

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baby-magazine.co.uk | 69

HEALTH

A ROUGH PATCH Georgina Blaskey TAKE S A DEEPER LOOK AT SEN SITIVE SKIN AN D WHAT TRIGGER S ECZEMA

y son has had dry, sensitive skin since he was a baby – rashy, rough areas, sometimes in patches, sometimes all over – and he can’t help but scratch, occasionally drawing blood, so I try to keep his nails short. It’s never progressed to the full-on eczema that I’ve seen some children I know suffer with, more a substantial irritation. On his cheekbone, for the last two to three years, he’s had a patch of dry skin with raised, paler bumps that wouldn’t go. I tried pharmaceutical brands with fancy French names, bathtime emollients and creams from the GP, basic oils, nothing would bring it down.

Then a friend came to dinner and mentioned she wasn’t eating dairy because of her eczema.

The next day I replaced his yogurt and milk with dairyfree alternatives and within a month the patch had disappeared completely.

Dry, sensitive skin can be can trouble for many families – according to children’s skincare brand Childs Farm, 82 per cent of UK parents believe their child has sensitive skin, and one in five children suffer from atopic eczema. Also known as atopic dermatitis, in the majority of cases eczema is inherited. It tends to run in families, so having a parent, aunt or sibling with atopic dermatitis, asthma, or hay fever raises the chances a person will develop atopic dermatitis. It’s a chronic condition where skin feels red and itchy, with periodic flare ups. Triggers can be environmental as well as dietary and genetic.

We know we are what we eat, but to think we can combat chronic conditions through diet is a powerful notion. Lucinda Miller, a top child’s nutrition expert and founder of Nature Doc Kids, is passionate about gut health and its impact on our bodies. “If your eczema is triggered by dairy products then your

M

baby is likely to have the same trigger. The microbiome, the gut’s bacteria, dictates your immune system. Mothers who take a probiotic during pregnancy and while breastfeeding are more likely to have babies who are protected from eczema. I have a saying, ‘Itchy on the outside equals itchy on the inside’. The gut is the core of so many illnesses. You need good bacteria to develop an immune system that doesn’t overreact to the environment because the immune system can tag certain things as alien, for example, house mites, animals and dairy. Also, if your baby had antibiotics at birth, this could have disrupted the microbiome to be more susceptible.”

If dairy is the trigger and you’re considering

during breastfeeding and when weaning. These can be found in salmon, mackerel, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds, organic milk and omega 3-rich eggs. From five months onwards you can give fish oil supplements too. Avocados, olive oil and tahini will have also help.

For children with sensitive skin, it’s worth researching what you’re putting on their skin and Lucinda recommends seeking out the most natural products you can. When I was using a bathtime emollient, I had to bathe my children separately as I didn’t want my daughter to get emollient in her long hair as it can be very greasy, but my son missed out on bubbles and yummy-smelling products which can make bathing more fun. I’ve just discovered Childs Farm, which has managed to combine natural ingredients with effective results. “We believe that every child should feel happy in their skin, whether it’s normal, sensitive or even prone to eczema,” say founder Joanna Jensen.

“With naturally-derived ingredients and essentials oils, our range is dermatologist and paediatrician approved for sensitive skin and safe for people who may be prone to eczema.”

From its delicious-smelling tangerine oil through to the deeply nourishing shea butter, the range is kind and safe.

On a recent ski holiday, I used a suncream I picked up in the ski-hire shop and liberally applied it to my son’s face. By the end of the day, his entire face with inflamed, hot and itchy. I swapped products and gave him an antihistamine every day for a week until it settled down. The tipping point for children with sensitive skin is subtle. What I thought may be dietary is obviously more than that, but identifying triggers can make sufferers more comfortable and help their skin heal.

AS ECZEMA IS AN INFLAMMATORY CONDITION, YOU CAN HELP OIL THE SKIN FROM WITHIN

70 | baby-magazine.co.uk

cutting it out, it’s important you seek support from a nutritional therapist to ensure your child still gets the right amount of calcium, iodine, vitamin D, magnesium and zinc they need to support healthy growth and development – dairy-free milk doesn’t have much of those. I told Lucinda that my son has recently had a preference for soya milk but, as he’s 10 years old now, she was quick to inform me that soya milk is high in oestrogen and with the the beginnings of puberty not far off, it was preferable that I switch him to an oat milk to avoid hormonal imbalance at this important stage. It was a powerful reminder that expert help is so important when thinking about cutting out food groups.

As eczema is an inflammatory condition, you can help oil the skin from within. It’s important to consume lots of healthy oils

HEALTH

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

If your baby had antibiotics from birth, this could disrupt their microbiome, making them more susceptible to eczema

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ADVERTORIAL

Born to be mild

CHILDS FAR M AR E H ER E TO MAKE SU R E BABY ’S BATHTIM E E XPERIEN CE IS A HAPPY ON E

Naturally derived ingredients and essential oils that are kind to baby’s skin

f you haven’t bathed a baby before, and find yourself ready to bathe your own precious newborn, it’s natural to feel a little uneasy. NHS guidelines suggest washing your baby with water and cotton wool for the first month, but when you’re ready to take the plunge and introduce products, start with the unfragranced body wash from British skincare brand, Childs Farm. The whole range uses naturally derived ingredients and essential oils that are mild, kind and deliciously scented – ideal for taking gentle care of newborns, babies and children’s hair and delicate skin.

If you’re using any oils, bubbles or baby washes, read the instructions carefully and do a patch test before first use.

I

To see the full range and for more information about Childs Farm product range, please visit childsfarm.com

“All our lovely products are dermatologist and paediatrician approved as suitable for sensitive skin and safe for people who may be prone to eczema. Coupled with a good dose of fun and some delicious fragrances, we hope you love using them as much as we do!”

JOANNA JENSON, CEO & FOUNDER, CHILDS FARM

TOP TIPS FOR WASHING YOUR BABY A bath before bed can help some babies get into a rhythm, as newborns don’t instinctively know whether it’s day or night.

Use your elbow to check the water before putting baby in to make sure it’s warm and not too hot nor cold. If you prefer, you could use a bath thermometer (the water should be about 37°-38°). Use Childs Farm baby wash or bubble bath to ensure skin is clean and soft.

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Dry, and dry again. Once baby’s out of the bath, completely dry every nook and cranny with a clean towel then soothe with a massage using Childs Farm baby moisturiser or baby oil, both specially formulated to hydrate baby’s delicate skin.

Nappy time. Protect baby’s bottom by moisturising it thoroughly with Childs Farm nappy cream before putting on a clean nappy and getting them cosied up in their sleep wear.

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

I’m six months pregnant and starting to suffer from back pain, how does acupuncture help?

T

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

owards the end of your pregnancy, a mixture of your growing uterus and pregnancy hormones can put a great deal of stress on your lower and mid-back, which is why it’s so common for women to suffer from backache during pregnancy.

Many women worry about taking medication during pregnancy as a method of treatment, but there are a number of remedies, including acupuncture, which can be used to help ease, or even relieve, back pain.

I’ve been an acupuncturist for more than 25 years and I’ve always been a huge believer in its benefits. Despite the fact that there remains a lot of mystery and scepticism surrounding the practice, I’ve seen how it helps so many women that are going through a stressful time.

resulting in the body producing natural substances, such as pain-relieving endorphins.

Traditional acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or life force, known as Qi flows through the body in channels called meridians. Practitioners believe that when it doesn’t flow freely through the body, this can restore the flow of Qi, and so can help minimise the effect of back pain.

INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Women can sometimes be anxious on their first visit to the clinic, especially if they’ve never had acupuncture before. The sensation you experience is quite personal, but could be described as dullness or tingling around the insertion site. Once this feeling settles, many women find themselves in a very restful state, making the session deeply relaxing .

HOW IT WORKS We believe it’s important to Acupuncture is a treatment derived from treat you according to your ancient Chinese medicine, in which ed Recommend individual circumstances. very fine needles are inserted product On your first visit, your into specific pressure points on practitioner will take the body that correspond with into consideration your various systems of physical and medical history and emotional health. It involves lifestyle, as well as making stimulating sensory nerves Vitamin D spray observational diagnosis. under the skin and in the muscles, £10.50, zitawest.com

QUALIFIED NETWORK It’s important to highlight that if a woman is considering acupuncture as a means of solving back pain during pregnancy, it must be administered correctly by a fully qualified and accredited practitioner. The Zita West Clinic has an extensive network of affiliated acupuncturists throughout the UK and Ireland, all of whom specialise in providing acupuncture during pregnancy and will help with any unwanted side effects such as nausea, headaches and backache.

In addition to helping reduce back pain during pregnancy, many women will come to the clinic for weekly sessions of acupuncture in the lead-up to labour. Our experience is that it can give them more energy and also help improve sleep quality, as there are some studies that suggest acupuncture in the leadup to labour can help to relax the body and have a better experience during labour.

It’s also important to understand when backache is not backache but an underlying factor, such as a UTI or premature labour – that’s why it’s important that you must always consult your midwife about any aches and pains you’re experiencing, alongside any treatment you may be having.

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

baby-magazine.co.uk | 73

HEALTH

When the crying

won’t stop

Becky Dickinson OFFER S HOPE AN D R E ASSU R ANCE FOR PAR ENTS WH OSE BABIE S AR E SU FFERING FROM TH E DR E ADED COLIC f there’s one thing guaranteed to bring you down to earth after the euphoria of having a baby, it’s having a baby who won’t stop crying. All newborns cry of course; it’s how they communicate. Yet there’s crying with a small c and then there’s crying with a capital C. The kind of crying that only gets louder the more you try to soothe her, the crying that can literally last for hours, the crying that only ends in yet more tears – yours – and leaves you wondering why nobody ever told you having a baby could be this outrageously difficult.

If this sounds awfully familiar, it may be that your baby is suffering from colic. It’s a word that’s often bandied about, yet although colic in babies isn’t usually serious, it can have a serious affect on parents. Research shows that having a colicky baby can increase the risk of postnatal depression, severe sleep deprivation and anxiety and can place a strain on relationships, too.

The average newborn cries five hours a day.

In a baby’s first year they may cry for 50 days in total. Often that’s because they’re hungry, cold or tired. Yet colicky babies can remain distressed even after you’ve attended to all of their needs.

So how can you tell if your baby has colic? Health visitor Sarah-Jane Thornton, from the Colief Expert Panel, says colic is characterised by inexplicable crying in babies who are otherwise healthy and have no difficulty feeding.

“If your baby is excessively crying in her early weeks of life, with no signs of illness or a condition, and you’ve tried everything

I

possible to console her, from feeding to wrapping warm, your baby may be suffering from colic,’’ she advises.

Colic is also associated with crying later in the afternoon and evening and a flushed red face and cheeks when crying. Some colicky babies also tend to draw their knees up or arch their back during colicky episodes.

Nobody really knows what causes it, but one explanation is that her digestive system is immature, so she can’t digest lactose, leading to trapped wind and gut sensitivity.

“If the colic is lactose-related, it means that your baby’s digestive system may not be producing enough lactase in her early weeks – meaning milk can’t be digested without

option is for breastfeeding mums to drink fennel tea, which is thought to have the added bonus of increasing milk flow.

Although distressing, colic isn’t usually anything to worry about. “Colic is a common problem and the symptoms can persist up until around three months,’’ says Sarah-Jane.

“The condition can improve on its own and not require a GP appointment or medical intervention. Help can be found from contacting your health visitor or attending a Child Health Clinic for face-to-face support.

Also, ask for help from family and friends. It’s important to have a break; you need to eat, drink and rest to be able to care for your baby with maximum energy.”

However, if your baby has other symptoms, or you’re finding it difficult to cope, see your doctor, or contact Crysis, a UK charity offering help and support to parents with babies who cry excessively or have sleeping problems.

Sarah-Jane also stresses the importance of remembering that you’re not doing anything wrong and bearing in mind that your baby doesn’t dislike you and isn’t unwell. Finally – and from someone who’s been there three times – it’s important to hang on to the fact that colic really doesn’t last forever. So stay strong, enjoy the in-between times, and remember colic is probably far harder for you than it is for your baby.

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discomfort,’’ says Sarah-Jane, who has worked with parents and new babies for more than 20 years. “There are treatments you can buy over the counter, like Colief Infant Drops that contain lactase and can be simply added to your baby’s feed, whether breast or bottle, to help your baby digest the lactose in milk and ease the symptoms of colic.’’

There’s also evidence to suggest that fennel seed could help to calm colicky babies. One study found that babies treated with fennel seed oil were reported to have 65 per cent less colic, measured by crying episodes, than infants given a placebo. As promising as this sounds, there’s as yet no established safe way to treat babies with fennel, so the safest

More information on colic can be found at colief.com and the NHS Choices website.

For further help and support, contact cry-sis.org.uk 0845 122 8669 (9am-10pm, seven days a week).

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

THERE’S CRYING WITH A SMALL C AND THEN THERE’S CRYING WITH A CAPITAL C

RUNNING HEAD

HEALTH VISITOR SARAH-JANE THORNTON’S TOP TIPS FOR CARING FOR A COLICKY BABY • Hold your baby when they’re crying as they may not like lying flat.

• Try carrying your baby over your shoulder or over your forearm and gently rock them.

• Try and create a calm environment.

• Feed a formula-fed baby upright during feeds, ensuring the bottle is positioned to prevent intake of air. For breastfed babies, short and frequent breast feeds may increase colicky behaviour.

• Burp your baby after a feed and allow any natural pauses during a feed.

• Try gently massaging your baby’s tummy or giving them a warm bath.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 75

NEXT ISSUE

IN THE APRIL ISSUE OF

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Freya wears cashmere romper, £54, Olivier Baby. Cotton bodysuit, £29, Pepa & Co. Cashmere booties, £34, Olivier Baby. Cashmere bonnet, £36, Olivier Baby. Cotton-mix blanket, £38, Camomile London.

How to cope with a teething tot and the miracle products that actually help Royal Correspondent Katie Nicholl discusses Meghan Markle’s glamorous pregnancy journey We round up the best activity gyms and play centres for baby We reveal the benefits of baby swimming

ON SALE

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PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN

The royal baby countdown commences: the ultimate gifts perfect for a very special new arrival

BREASTFEEDING

The Breastfeeding Café with

PROFESSOR AMY BROWN

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

ONES TO WATCH

CAN I CARRY ON BREASTFEEDING IF I’M TAKING MEDICATION?

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any of us are fighting winter bugs with over-the-counter remedies, but if you’re breastfeeding, you might be unsure about what’s safe to take. Or maybe you’ve been prescribed medication and are wondering… can I take this?

The good news is that many medications are fine to take when breastfeeding. This is because some can’t get into your breast milk and others do in such small amounts that they don’t pose any harm – for many just one per cent reaches your baby.

Common medications that are safe to take when breastfeeding include antidepressants, antihistamines, asthma medications and antibiotics. Vaccinations are fine. And you’ll be relieved to know that over-the-counter treatments for cystitis, diarrhoea, and vaginal thrush are all fine too.

Unfortunately, sometimes GPs give outdated information. If you’re prescribed a medication and told to stop breastfeeding there are sources that you can use to double check the information. The Breastfeeding Network has lots of evidence-based information sheets for the most commonly prescribed medications.

Swing maxi breast pump £239.99, medela.co.uk

Essential Vie nipple cream £12.99, boots.com

You can contact the Drugs in Breastmilk service, run by a specialist pharmacist, by email or Facebook for advice on your situation.

For some one-off or short-term medications that are incompatible with breastfeeding, you shouldn’t breastfeed while taking the medication, but it’s fine to carry on once the course is finished. If you’re prescribed a medication for a short period you should regularly express and discard your milk during this time to keep your supply up and yourself comfortable. For information on keeping your supply up, contact the National Breastfeeding helpline on 0300 100 0212.

You might be wondering why most overthe-counter medications say that they’re not advisable to take if you are breastfeeding.

Often (but not always) this is because there’s a lack of evidence of their safety rather than evidence that they’re unsafe, as it’d be unethical to test medication on breastfeeding women and manufacturers don’t want to take the risk. If in doubt, use the links above to get advice based on the latest evidence.

Professor Amy Brown is the author of The Positive Breastfeeding Book, £14.99, Pinter & Martin Ltd

Maya nursing bra £30, mumbabra.com

Pregnancy and nursing pillow £34.99, babymoov.co.uk

There are some medications that you shouldn’t take while feeding: lithium, methotrexate for arthritis, chemotherapy, radiation therapy. If you realise your medication’s incompatible, see your GP, as it’s important you don’t stop taking it – your health is important. If you must stop breastfeeding, you should express and discard, gradually cutting down to avoid discomfort, blocked ducts or infection.

For help, call the national breastfeeding helpline.

Choose painkillers carefully: ibuprofen and paracetamol are fine. Avoid codeine as it can make babies lethargic, and aspirin because continued use can harm babies. But if you accidentally take a one-off dose of these, there’s no need to discard as there’s no evidence one dose is harmful. You also don’t need to stop breastfeeding after general or local anaesthetic, but do take care post op.

Some medications won’t harm baby, but some decongestants and oestrogen-based contraceptive pills will impact on your supply.

You might see a short-term drop in milk if you take the morning-after pill, but as it isn’t regular medication, this should improve again.

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RUNNING HEAD

For more pregnancy and parenting tips, listen to the sister’s podcast, The Parent Hood

78 | baby-magazine.co.uk

HEALTH

TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

INDUCTION

This issue the sisters address the rumours around being induced for labour f all interventions in pregnancy, induction seems to have the worst reputation: it’s painful, it doesn’t work, you’ll definitely end up with a caesarean.

In fact, a lot of the stories women told us they’ve heard when at The Bump Class are steeped in exaggeration and often completely untrue. Most of all, these lies are unhelpful because induction, when it needs to be done, makes giving birth to our babies safer.

Induction is recommended for many reasons. The most common is going overdue.

Babies are considered term between 37 and 42 weeks but we know that because the placenta ages as your pregnancy progresses past term, it’s not safe for your baby for pregnancy to progress beyond 42 weeks. But there are other reasons too, for example, if there’s a concern about mother or baby’s health or if your waters have broken but labour hasn’t started. These are things your midwife will be checking at every appointment and if there are concerns, induction will be discussed.

Induction is simply starting labour artificially. It’s split into three stages. The first is giving a vaginal pessary of prostaglandin which softens the cervix, encouraging it to dilate.

Often this is all that’s needed to start labour off but sometimes two or three pessaries are needed, at between 6 and 12 hour intervals.

At the very least, if it starts to open the cervix but if labour is not progressing as the doctors would like, they’ll move to the second stage: breaking the waters.

The waters breaking is part of the labour process that can happen at any time during labour. A doctor or midwife will do a simple vaginal examination and during the process, break the amniotic sac, as if they were popping a balloon.

Often by now, labour has kicked off and there’s no further intervention needed but if they’re still concerned about the lack of progress, they can move to the third stage of induction. This involves giving you another hormone, oxytocin, intravenously through a drip in your arm. It’s a synthetic version of the hormone you create when you go into

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

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labour naturally and its job is to stimulate contractions. While many women who are having an induction never need to proceed to this third stage, if you do, you’ll need to be continuously monitored on the labour ward.

This is to make sure your contractions are strong enough to be effective, but not too strong to cause the baby distress. You’re more likely to need an epidural if you get to the third stage of induction.

It seems rather unfair that induction gets such bad rap. The lives of millions of babies around the world every year are saved because of induction but all you hear are the horror stories – no one tells you the good ones, which do happen. In fact, two-thirds of women who are induced, go on to have no further intervention, not even an epidural.

When induction doesn’t work, a caesarean is recommended as it’s the only way to get your baby out safely, and while this will be classified as an emergency caesarean, it shouldn’t be too stressful. There should be plenty of time for you to understand why it’s being recommended and for you to prepare to meet your baby.

TRUE OR FALSE? Sex will stimulate my labour to start: false.

While semen contains prostaglandins, the hormone that will be used in the pessary to soften your cervix, you’d need a bucketload of the stuff to make it effective. That said, you’re probably not going to be having much sex after the baby’s born, so if you’re up for it, go for it.

I’ll be offered a sweep before an induction: true. A midwife or doctor can stretch open the cervix with her finger and sweep around the membranes in the uterus, hoping to trigger labour. This can be quite painful and is not part of the induction process. Most women are prepared to give it a go. It’s a good opportunity for a midwife to check how ripe or ready the cervix is to start softening and dilating and if it’s too painful you can always ask the midwife to stop. You don’t have to have it if you don’t want to.

Inductions usually end up with an emergency caesarean: false. Two-thirds of women who are induced go on to have natural labours with no further intervention needed. Only 20 per cent of inductions result in a caesarean.

You can’t be on the birth centre if you’re induced: false. While protocol differs depending on where you deliver, most birth centres can accommodate the first two stages of induction. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about your options – they’ll look at your individual situation to work out the best place for you to give birth.

It’s dangerous for your pregnancy to progress beyond 42 weeks: true. The risk of stillbirth doubles after 42 weeks and usually an induction plan is discussed from 40 weeks. The risk increases if the mother is over 40 years old, and there’s increasing evidence that older mothers should not progress beyond 41 weeks.

Induction can take a long time: true. It’s unlikely that you’ll give birth on the day your induction starts and it can be a tiring process.

It’s worth considering having two birth partners who can tag team.

Breaking the waters is painful: false. In spite of them using a scarily-named instrument called an amniohook, actually breaking the sac doesn’t hurt, as the sac has no nerves.

However, the examination needed to break the waters can be uncomfortable but only lasts a few minutes.

Eating a hot curry will bring on labour: false.

Spice might bring on a big bowel movement which in itself might start labour, but quite frankly, rushing to the loo is the last thing you need. There are old wives’ tales around dates, prunes, pineapple, acupuncture and homeopathy that you’ll hear – none are evidence based but you’ll probably give one or two of them a try.

Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are the founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South West London. Their podcast The Parent Hood, is free to download on iTunes and Acast. Visit thebumpclass.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 79

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW

WITH R AINY DAYS IN SIDE ON TH E CAR DS, Laura Mason PUTS TH E BE ST BABY BOU NCER S TO TH E TE ST

Best for LUXURY

Best for BUDGET

Best for STYLE

Best for

BOUNCING

This rocker sings, dances, plays and travels well!

Best for ENTERTAINMENT

CHICCO

Hoopla A rocker needn’t break the bank – this affordable lightweight chair has an appealing design, offering plenty of comfort. The removable toy bar is also a nice addition, allowing you to slide the mirrors, teethers and squeakers along the rail. It supports sensorial, cognitive and motor skills all while keeping baby stimulated. £60, johnlewis.com

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BABYBJORN

4MOMS

JOIE

NUNA

Super-soft padding – combined with an agile frame – allows baby to power this chair’s natural rocking. Using an aerobic motion, the bouncer’s very responsive to baby’s movement, and as a result, helps develop balance and motor skills. It also means there’s no batteries or cords to worry about. £137, babybjorn.co.uk

Replicating the movement of a parent, this multimotion rocker smoothly moves up, down and side to side. The vast range of speed and motion choices allows you to find the right setting for baby’s every mood. Aimed at modern families, I love the in-built music selections, MPS hook up and remote Bluetooth control. £299.99, amazon.co.uk

For an all-singing, alldancing rocker, this is fantastic choice, as it provides a variety of music, sounds, rocking motions and play toys. It’s the most compact chair tested, making it great for smaller rooms; and the lift-off seat with option to operate off mains or battery power make it handy for transporting. £150, mothercare.com

This rocker will add an element of elegance to any room. Coming in deep grey organic cotton, it’s not just its fanciful style that ticks boxes – it’s really practical too. Angled just perfectly for both naps and play, it only takes a gentle push for it to rock from side to side like a leaf in the wind, providing a soft bouncing motion. £200, nuna.eu/uk

Bouncer Bliss Cotton

mamaRoo

Sansa 2 in 1

Leaf Grow

SHOPPING The Nuna Leaf Grow is angled perfectly for both peaceful snoozing and playtime

baby-magazine.co.uk | 81

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NORDIC NIGHTS

There’s a new range of beds available at Cuckooland, thanks to the latest launches from Danish brand Oliver Furniture. Adding to its Mini+ line, the toddler bunk bed and junior bed are both designed to grow with your child, with conversion kits that allow you to extend its size over time. Made from solid birch and finished in white and oak, it’s the perfect dose of Scandi cool for bedtimes. From £674, cuckooland.com

interior

NEWS

ST YLISH U PDATE S AN D IN SPIRING FIN DS TO MAKE YOU R HOUSE A H OM E CUTEY FRUITY

Start your baby on four of their five a day early with a fruit rattle set from Fabelab. Crafted from organic muslin, the four toys can be handheld or added to a baby gym for aerial stimulation. The set includes a pear, apple and grapes. £24.95, scandiborn.co.uk

THESE FOUR WALLS

Get a head start on the big spring clean by investing in some clever – and cool – storage solutions. Retailer Molly Meg has got you covered; ideas we love include the stacking and folding crates in a variety of attractive shades, Numero 74’s wicker storage baskets and hanging wall storage with pockets of all shapes and sizes, and Nobodinoz self-storage drawstring bags. mollymeg.com

Newbie’s new Bedtime Stories collection sees the brand’s first foray into interiors with a line of wallpapers. Created in collaboration with prestigious Swedish wallpaper house BoråsTapeter, the four whimsical prints include a delicate rose garden and a forest-friends design, featuring various hand-drawn animals and plants. There’s even matching pyjamas and bedding for ultimate coordination. Available from 5 February. newbiestore.com

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FOOD

food

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

Great for creative lunches, this eco-friendly children’s dinner set features divided plates and bowl with steeper sides that make scooping super easy for baby. The bundle, which includes utensils and a small drinking cup, is made from beautiful biodegradable bamboo fibre, which means when it reaches the end of its life cycle, you can simply bury it underground where it’ll decompose. £32, tumtumtots.com

ON THE BLEND Still on a new-year health kick? Keep it up with Honestly Good Smoothie, a blend-it-yourself kit that’s comes with weekly, fortnightly or monthly subscriptions. In each box you’ll find organic, prepared ingredients: fruit, vegetables, herbs, seeds, nuts, cannellini beans, peas and tofu. honestly-good.co

HANDY MEALS

We’ve all been there: you finally sit down to dinner, only for your little one to start wailing from the bedroom. But no longer; say hello to One Out the Oven, a new London delivery service offering organic, guilt-free microwavable meals that can be eaten hot or cold. Better yet, each dish is designed to be easy to eat one-handed, leaving your other hand free for baby.

Choose from dishes such as lamb koftas, Indian-style cauliflower and rice, and Moroccan chicken. oneouttheoven.com

BOTTOMS UP! If you’re still craving a crisp G&T while pregnant, Ceder’s is a new non-alcoholic gin alternative. Handcrafted in Sweden and filled with South African botanicals, it’s available in three flavours.

Garnish with a slice of cucumber or a lemon and rosemary garnish. ceders-alt-gin.com

NEARLY HALF OF BRITISH PARENTS FACE CRITICISM ABOUT WHAT THEY FEED THEIR CHILDREN, ACCORDING TO RESEARCH BY BABY FOOD BRAND, BABEASE. TWO THIRDS ALSO ADMITTED TO FINDING WEANING CONFUSING, WITH 74% UNSURE ABOUT WHICH FOODS WERE BEST TO GIVE THEIR BABY. BABEASE.CO

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FOOD

This comforting dish combines complex carbs and fresh vegetables: perfect for springtime dinners

86 | baby-magazine.co.uk

FOOD

Spring delights IN FANT N UTRITIONIST SPECIALIST Alice Fotheringham SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE FAMILY R ECIPE S FOR THIS TIM E OF YE AR PA R M E S A N & C O U R G E T T I R I S O T T O W I T H T U R M E R I C A N D A S I D E O F A S PA R AG U S Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 25 minutes Makes 6 portions (freeze any leftovers for up to 3 months) Suitable from 8 months INGREDIENTS

• 235ml cold water • 100g white rice (preferably Arborio rice) • ½ tsp of turmeric • 1 medium courgette • 50g grated parmesan • 60ml of milk

• 1 minced garlic clove or ½tsp garlic powder • 3 sprigs of chopped thyme • 2-3 asparagus stems METHOD

Grate the courgette and cheddar cheese into a bowl and set aside.

Pour the rice and water into a medium saucepan and bring to the boil.

Add the milk, reduce to a medium heat and simmer, stirring until some liquid is absorbed.

Stir in the turmeric, garlic and thyme. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes (or until the

liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked).

In another saucepan, gently steam the asparagus for 6-8 minutes.

Mix the grated courgette, cheddar and parmesan into the saucepan with the risotto and stir until combined.

Take the asparagus off the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Serve up your risotto warm in a bowl, and place the asparagus sprigs on a side plate to encourage self-feeding.

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FOOD

C A R R O T, M A N G O , COCONUT & TUR M E R IC W I T H A M A R A N T H & OAT S Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes Makes 4 portions (Suitable for freezing and making ice-lollies) Suitable from 6 months

This sweet treat with subtle yet complex flavours is perfect for elevenses, dessert and even picnics

An organic fresh blend of carrots, mango and coconut, made even more nutritious with the addition of amaranth and oats.

INGREDIENTS

• 10g amaranth • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped • 1 mango, peeled and chopped • 80g coconut milk • 10g oats • pinch of ground turmeric, or 1cm cube of fresh turmeric METHOD

In a saucepan, cook the amaranth according to packet instructions. While it’s cooking, add the carrot, mango, coconut, oats and turmeric to a blender and blend until smooth (add more coconut milk or water for thinner consistency).

Once the amaranth has cooked, add it to the blender and blend until smooth.

L E M O N , P O P P Y A N D P I S TAC H I O C A K E Preparation time: 30 mins Cooking: 50 minutes Makes 1 cake Suitable from 1 year INGREDIENTS

• 100g shelled pistachios, plus extra to decorate • 125ml sunflower oil, plus extra for greasing • 100g caster sugar • 2 large free-range eggs • 1-2 drops vanilla essence • 8 green cardamom pods, seeds removed and ground (to make 1 tsp ground cardamom) • 1 unwaxed lemon, zest only • 80g/3½oz plain flour • 60g/1oz ground almonds, • 1tsp baking powder • ½tsp bicarbonate of soda • 50g milk For the lemon syrup

• 2 lemons, juice only • 100g icing sugar For the lemon, Icing • 75g icing sugar • 1-2tbsp lemon juice METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180C/160C Fan/Gas 4.

Grease and line an 8in cake tin or 2lb loaf tin.

In a food processor, pulse the pistachios and cardamom seeds to make a powder.

In a large bowl, mix together the sunflower oil and caster sugar. Add the eggs, vanilla, and lemon zest. Stir until combined.

In a separate bowl, add the flour, ground pistachios and cardamom, ground almonds, salt, baking powder and bicarbonate soda. Stir until well combined then fold into the wet ingredients in the other bowl. Fold in the milk.

Pour the mixture into the tin and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean.

Meanwhile, prepare the syrup. Heat the lemon juice and sugar in a saucepan until the sugar is dissolved, then briefly bring to the boil. Remove from the heat and set aside.

As soon as the cake is cooked, poke holes all over the top using a skewer. Pour the hot syrup over the cake and leave it to cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes.

When the cake is cool, remove it carefully from the tin.

For the lemon icing, sift the icing sugar into a bowl and stir in the lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

To finish, finely chop the remaining pistachios and scatter over the icing.

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

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Hawkesdown House School

For Boys & Girls aged 3 to 11 years

OPEN MORNING Thursday 14th February 2019 9.15 am or 10.15 am.

Please telephone the School to register for a place.

27 Edge Street, Kensington, London W8 7PN Telephone: 0207 727 9090 Email: admin@hawkesdown.co.uk www.hawkesdown.co.uk

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FREEPHONE 0800 433 4757 www.pebbleuk.com

Built on Tradition – Embracing the Future

baby-magazine.co.uk | 89

DAIOS COVE, CRETE

Nestled in a private cove on the secluded Vathi Beach, this luxury resort features sea views, as it sits nestled in its own private bay with white sand beaches and a crystal clear ocean. Ten minutes from Aghios Nikolaos and twenty minutes from Elounda, Daios Cove is the perfect place for a relaxing break with the little ones.

Daios Cove offers a plethora of activities for the whole family, but the resort puts a special emphasis on children.

Boasting a complimentary creche and kids clubs run by renowned Worldwide Kids Co, there is a huge range of fantastic age appropriate activities for toddlers and teens alike to take part in and a constant supply of new games and toys. Multi-lingual nannies oversee exciting pirate treasure hunts, dino adventures as well as incredible space exploration evenings. After a day of chasing velociraptos and blasting off into outer space, the children can rest in the outdoor shaded area. The late kids club opening times and early supervised childrens’ supper are the perfect opportunity for parents to indulge in a quiet adults-only dinner, while the little ones enjoy one final run-around at the kids club before bed.

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Deluxe Sea View Room and Deluxe Sea View Room with Individual Pool - Save up to 40% Booking Discount on your stay - €80 resort credit per room, per stay - Complimentary 30 minute massage for one adult - Four complimentary creche sessions per booking

Prices start from £3,195 for two adults, one infant (flights included) Suites and Villas

- Save up to 35% discount - Complimentary transfers for all Villa guests staying 5 nights or more - Complimentary 30 minute massage for one adult - Four complimentary creche sessions per booking - Complimentary upgrade to Premium All Inclusive

Prices start from £5,470 for two adults and two children (flights included) Valid during: 12 April 2019 - 16 May 2019

Book by 28 February 2019

LET US ARRANGE IT ALL FOR YOU Convenient flight times, private transfers, nanny services and restaurant bookings - travelling with Tots Too is a holiday.

For a luxury holiday that even parents can enjoy, just call Tots Too, that’s what we do.

CALL 020 7284 3344

Email sales@totstoo.com Scan our QR code for more information and to enquire.

PLEASURE ISLAND

travel

NEWS

WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW

Parklane, part of the Marriott Hotel Group’s Luxury Collection, is set to open in Cyprus this March, with something to please all ages. Set on the beachfront, the hotel boasts 274 Harrods Interiors-designed rooms and suites, with cots available upon request.

Little ones will love the Park Kidz play area, and if they’re sports mad, the football academy and tennis courts will keep them busy while you unwind at the adults-only spa. From ¤310 per room per night, parklanecyprus.com

JOURNEY EAST Opened in 2018, Wattura Resort & Spa is Sri Lanka’s first family-oriented luxury boutique hotel. Sat overlooking pristine sands, there are 27 villas and suites, with a vast kids’ area that includes a toddler lounge, water playground, mini theatre and a dedicated café. The resort offers bespoke experiences, from private dinners in secluded bays to whale watching expeditions. watturaresortandspa.com

Leading luxury family holiday specialists Tots Too has added a Nanny Inclusive service to its portfolio of worldwide hotels and resorts. The unique package provides one-on-one attention from experienced local child-carers, giving you the chance to kick back on the sun lounger undisturbed – it’s ideal for younger children who might be too little for the kids’ club. Hotels offering the service include resorts in Portugal, Cyprus and the Canary Islands. totstoo.com

PEAK YOUR INTEREST New to the UK market, the four-star Sonnwies hotel in the Italian Alps is run with the whole family in mind, offering a variety of kids’ activities, from skiing to pony riding. It’s great for babies too; you’ll be treated to up to 35 hours of complimentary childcare a week.

There’s even a baby pool and buggyfriendly hiking trails. And that’s not all: an infinity pool and 10 new rooms will be added this year. sonnwies.com

EMBRACE THE WELSH COASTLINE AT THE NEW LUXURY LODGES IN LAUGHARNE, CARMARTHENSHIRE. WITH AWE-INSPIRING BAY VIEWS, THE 145 SELF-CATERING LODGES CAN ACCOMMODATE UP TO SIX PEOPLE – IDEAL FOR BABY’S FIRST HOLIDAY WITH GRANDPARENTS IN TOW! FACILITIES INCLUDE A CLUBHOUSE, RESTAURANT AND SPA. LUXURYLODGES.COM/LAUGHARNE

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RUNNING HEAD

POSTCARD FROM

The azure shallow waters and soft sands are perfect for little ones’ play time

CORNWALL Rebecca Moore H E ADS FOR A SH ORT FAMILY BR E AK ON COR NISH SAN DS

aving family in Cornwall means I’m often found in the south west, surrounded by my growing tribe of nieces and nephews.

During my latest visit, I decided to make the most of it by taking my sister Kathryn and two-year-old niece Ruby on a close-to-home adventure: an indulgent two-night stay at Carbis Bay’s new beach lodges, just a few miles from St Ives.

Winding down a steep and bendy road, we arrived at the hotel, which is almost within touching distance of the beach. Ruby also noticed this, shouting: “mummy, you’re driving into the sea!” as we approached. And the picturepostcard finish is made complete by what looks like a toy train set nestled in the cliffs, meandering through the trees on its journey between St Erth and St Ives.

The Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate dates back to the 19th century, but the beach lodges have only been open for a few months. After a hefty £15m investment, they’re an unrivalled slice of luxury, offering premium beachside accommodation. A two-minute walk, or golf buggy ride if you prefer, from the hotel towards the bay, the eight lodges sit pretty on the shore. We were shown round by a helpful member of staff, our jaws dropping at every turn.

Staying in a three-bedroom lodge meant we had a room and a bathroom each; with mood lighting throughout, and breathtaking bay vistas visible from every window, this temporary home was

H

Lodge guests can relax with complimentary Bollinger and plan activities with the in-house tablet system

Every window in the beach lodge offers stunning sea views

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the height of luxury and space. And with the Blue Flag-awarded beach just through our patio doors, we were truly spoilt. The shallow waters and powder-soft sand make it the perfect playground for young families. When relaxation calls, or rather, afternoon naps, the lodge hot tub, with its spectacular views, is heavenly.

On our first night we ate at the hotel’s Beach Club, which offers a Mediterranean menu with delicious seasonal dishes and a well-considered kids’ menu: Ruby managed to demolish a handmade pizza bigger than her head.

This really demonstrates the convenient nature of the lodges; you can enjoy your own space while reaping the benefits of the hotel’s unrivalled facilities!

Admittedly we had a rather lazy stay, comprising of strolls along the mile-long stretch of sand and cups of Cornish Tea back at the ranch. For more daring types the sky is the limit though. Activities include helicopter rides, chauffeur-driven tours, treatments at the award winning C-Spa or sunset sails aboard the estate’s private Sunseeker motor yacht, all bookable via a tablet in each lodge.

From the Dyson hairdryers to the bottle of Bollinger on arrival, new parents or groups of families will simply revel in this dreamy Cornish getaway full of laidback-luxury: we certainly did.

Beach Lodge rates for up to six people, including breakfast, start from £1,200 per night. carbisbayhotel.co.uk

The sumptuous comfort of the new beach lodges offers an unrivalled slice of luxury

The Beach Club menu gets a thumbs up from Ruby

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Beachside or swaddling a newborn they are the must have for any on-the-go Mummy. Fair-trade, natural and eco-friendly, what’s not to love!

Find Honey Blossom at: www.honeybmuslin.com Instagram @honeybmuslin

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City please?

GOT TH E N EW YE AR TR AVEL BUG , BUT WOR RIED ABOUT HOW TO DO IT EN FAMILLE? H ER E’S Jo Caird’s E SSENTIAL GUIDE TO CIT Y BR E AKS WITH BABY

C

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR ACCOMMODATION Self-catering accommodation is almost always going to be preferable to a hotel when travelling with a baby. Not only does an apartment with a sitting room give you a place to hang out separately from your little one after you’ve put her down for the night, having a proper kitchen is also easier when it comes

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SIGHTSEEING WITH A BABE IN ARMS ISN’T REALLY VERY DIFFERENT FROM SIGHTSEEING CHILD-FREE to making up bottles.

The first thing to check when booking is whether babies are welcome – most booking sites should have a box you can tick. The next question to ask is what’s provided in the way of equipment. If you can avoid packing a travel cot (and high chair if your baby is weaned), so much the better.

In terms of access, how easy will it be to get into and out of the property with a pushchair?

And is there somewhere to store it? If you’re renting a flat on an upper floor, is there a lift, or can you leave the buggy safely in a common area downstairs?

If you prefer the idea of a hotel, always go for a room with an en suite bathroom and remember to check if there’s a kettle and fridge. Parents of bottle-fed babies will need to pack cold-water sterilising equipment and a bottle brush for cleaning (the latter is a good idea for self-catering too).

HOW TO EAT OUT The good news is that restaurants on the continent tend to be more baby-friendly than in the UK in terms of staff attitudes. The bad news is that baby-change facilities are often few and far between so there’s a good chance

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

ity breaks may be considered the preserve of carefree couples and footloose friends, but there’s no need to discount them now that baby’s arrived. Those first months with your little one are actually a great time to tick some European cities off your bucket list: no elaborate bedtime routines to get in the way of a good time, nutrition is still mainly about milk, and your baby will be perfectly happy spending hours cuddled up in a sling while you explore museums, markets and walking tours.

WHERE TO GO Top city-break destinations within a couple of hours’ flight time of the UK Valencia, on Spain’s Costa Blanca, has a lovely old town on a very explorable scale and an enormous park that runs through the city’s ancient river bed that’s just perfect for strolling with a pram. If city pursuits get too much for you, it also has a Blue Flag beach just 15 minutes from the city centre. visitvalencia.com The food in the northern Italian city of Bologna is second to none – think ragù alla Bolognese, tortellini and amazing risotto – and there’s art aplenty in its churches and galleries. Beautiful covered porticos mean you’ll never get wet, even on the rainiest of days. bolognawelcome.com Austria’s capital, Vienna, is all about café culture, so stopping to feed your little one will feel like a treat rather than a chore. Several of them also host regular informal concerts, a great way to get your culture fix without worrying about babysitting. The MuseumsQuartier is a convenient spot for experiencing lots of culture in a compact space. wien.info European restaurants are generally very baby friendly but do check the facilities Why not explore Valencia’s charming old town and blue-flag beach with baby?

you’ll need to be creative about changing your little one’s nappy. Avoid nasty surprises by checking what’s available before settling on an eatery: if there’s no baby change table, is there a shelf you can use? Or at least enough space on the – hopefully clean – floor?

Carrying baby in a sling rather than using a Newborns will be content in a sling while you explore the city’s sights on foot

pram increases your options as you don’t need to worry about parking it. A LapBaby is a useful piece of kit for parents travelling with slightly older babies – it’ll keep your little one securely on your lap, leaves your hands free, and packs down very small and light.

Choice of table is important: if you’re breastfeeding, a chair with a back makes for a much more comfortable experience. Consider your escape route for that moment when your baby kicks off and needs jiggling and pacing to calm down – outside, away from other diners, is often less stressful than in. In warm weather I’d always go for an outside table when given the option, for this very reason.

HOW TO GO SIGHTSEEING Sightseeing with a babe in arms isn’t really very different from sightseeing child-free. If you’re bringing a pram, you’ll need to factor that into

your route planning. Be prepared to leave it at the entrance of some attractions though, as many will be inaccessible to pushchairs. Bring a sling with you, just in case.

Don’t forget to transfer any essentials (bottles, muslins, nappy-change wallet) from the pram into your bag so you’ve got everything on your person. It’s better to take a little longer getting sorted on arrival than have the faff of returning to the pram for something important later on.

Factor in lots of breaks. Lugging a baby around, even a newborn, is more tiring than sightseeing solo, and you’ll need to stop to feed every couple of hours anyway.

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Boutiques MARIE-CHANTAL, LONDON

Founded by HRH Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, this beautiful childrenswear range is made from the most luxurious fabrics, including pure cotton and cashmere. In the boutiques you’ll find traditional-meets-contemporary pieces for babies, girls and boys from newborn up to 12 years. The clothing exudes modern elegance, and the comprehensive collection of baby essentials includes cosy sleepsuits, cotton rompers and bib sets.

4 MOTCOMB STREET, LONDON SW1X 8JU mariechantal.co.uk

OUR KID, MANCHESTER

Run by a trio of mums, Our Kid is a cool space for all things family. The stylish shop emits a laidback atmosphere that both children and parents will love – browse through a selection of independent brands, then grab a coffee and a slice of cake at the in-store café afterwards. There’s also an astroturf lawn and toy corner, plus plenty of events to amuse little ones. The team will even host a fabulous birthday party or baby shower at your request, too.

9A OSWALD ROAD, CHORLTON, MANCHESTER M21 9LP our-kid.co.uk

TOBY TIGER, EAST SUSSEX

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

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

LA COQUETA, LONDON

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

STORES ACROSS LONDON lacoquetakids.com

EVE’S TOY SHOP, WALES

A veritable treasure trove for kids big and small, Eve’s Toy Shop in the colourful town of Llandeilo, South Wales has toys of every kind. Whether you’re after something creative, want to get messy or spark imaginations, you’ll find it here. The owners source products from the best toy makers across Europe, with featured brands including Djeco, Moulin Roty, Haba and Jellycat. Keep an eye on its Facebook page for updates on the latest in-store events, from pet parties to Lego fun.

1 KING STREET, LLANDEILO, CARMARTHENSHIRE SA19 6AA evestoyshop.co.uk

CARAMEL, LONDON

Founder and director Eva Karayiannis launched Caramel back in 1999, after spotting a gap in the market while shopping for her daughters. With an emphasis on clothing that’s both beautiful and durable, only the finest materials are used to craft each piece, from cashmere and lambswool, to linen and leather. Sizes for baby start from six months, with the children's line extending up to age 12 for both boys and girls.

STORES ACROSS LONDON caramel-shop.co.uk

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Boutiques MILK & HONEY, NORTH YORKSHIRE

Situated in the spa town of Harrogate, Milk & Honey stocks a range of clothes, accessories and toys for all ages. There’s more than 40 renowned labels to browse, from sweet baby clothing to fashionconscious pieces for your teen, and their friendly team is always happy to make your experience as pleasurable and stress-free as possible. They’ll even gift-wrap your purchase should you request it.

Brands include Ralph Lauren, Levi’s and Pepe Jeans.

14-16 CHELTENHAM PARADE, HARROGATE, NORTH YORKSHIRE HG1 1DB milkandhoneykids.co.uk

PEPA & CO, LONDON

Pepa & Co’s clothing collections for both boys and girls from newborn up to eight years old capture the best of British and Spanish heritage design. Founded only five years ago, the brand’s loved by the royal family, with Prince George and Princess Charlotte seen in a number of styles, including the page boy and bridesmaid outfits for their aunt Pippa’s wedding in 2017. More recently, the brand has opened its first boutique on Belgravia’s Elizabeth Street.

40 ELIZABETH STREET, BELGRAVIA, LONDON SW1W 9NZ pepaandcompany.com

TOYVILLE, BRISTOL

New to the Bristol shopping scene, Toyville officially opened its doors in October 2016. The independent toy shop in Bedminster is a family business, run by Lindsay and Joel, and sometimes their son, Xander. They only stock toys that they would buy themselves as parents, offering a brand identity and collection of products that appeals to both the child and the buying adult. Choose from both traditional toys and new arrivals that are set to be future classics.

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

MAMAS & PAPAS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ANTONIO PAGANO

Founded in 2012 by architect couple Sara Giese Camre and Robert Warren Paulsen, Cam Cam Copenhagen is all about creating products for children that combine tradition with a touch of the contemporary, as a gentle contrast to modern-day life. Its pieces are designed to be handed down through the generations, created with sustainability in mind. We particularly love the charming mobiles and Scandi-inspired furniture. camcamcopenhagen.com

LUCY & BELLE

After being inspired to set up her own online boutique after the arrival of her twin daughters, Clara Bentata founded Lucy & Belle as a shopping destination for discerning parents. The site prides itself on delivering the best customer experience with an extensive selection of products, from baby clothing and changing bags, to outdoor pieces and accessories. Top brands include Pasito a Pasito, Cam Cam Copenhagen and Babidu. lucyandbelle.com

ON LIN E

CAM CAM COPENHAGEN

ON LIN E

From cots to clothing, pushchairs to playtime accessories, Mamas & Papas is your go-to store for picking up everything you need for baby. Founded in 1981, the business was born out of a desire to better meet the needs of new parents, debuting with a range of coloured prams. Now, 35 years on, and with branches and stockists across the world, we challenge you to leave its boutiques empty handed. Be sure to check out its most recent launch, the Ocarro pram.

STORES ACROSS THE UK mamasandpapas.com

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BUSINESS The hypoallergenic Shnuggle Moses Basket was the very first product that Sinead and Adam designed

The award-winning Shnuggle Dreami Moses Basket has two positions

The Shnuggle Baby Bath’s bum bump helps little ones sit up in the water

How did Shnuggle come about?

S: I vividly remember Adam and I bringing Rose home from the hospital. Not only were we trying to figure out how to be parents for the first time, but we were also caring for a very sick little baby. As we used various baby products, like lots of parents, we had ideas on to improve them. At this stage, we were purely focused on looking after Rose with so many hospital appointments, but the ideas were brewing in the background.

A: Our first product idea was for a hypoallergenic Moses basket, which launched in 2009. Rose had a small dose of chemotherapy and her immune system was very weak. Our traditional basket couldn’t be cleaned easily, it creaked whenever she moved, and the hood would never stay up. So, the Shnuggle Moses Basket was born – a super-strong, easy-to-clean basket with a hood that stayed put. My background in design and manufacturing meant we could design models on a computer and start talking to factories to have them made.

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INSPIRE SINEAD & ADAM MURPHY The husband-and-wife co-founders of Shnuggle talk business, balance and clever baby products S: We were both working full time and packing orders in our garage after the kids went bed.

When I look back, I think we must have been mad. We had two children under two, a business to grow, and our day jobs. Not knowing what care Rose might need in the future changed our outlook; we wanted to create our own business which could give us flexibility to work around her, while also designing products that make parenting easier.

Now the kids are at school, the couple ha achieved a be ve tter work-life balance

How do you maintain a familywork balance these days?

S: Balancing family life and work is a constant juggle. We still try to travel separately as much as possible. Now that all of the kids (Rose 11, Liam nine, and Ruby four) are in school and we have a bigger team at Shnuggle, we have more of a balance. We’re lucky to be able to drop them off and pick them up every day and getting time off for nativity plays and concerts isn’t too tricky – the bosses are pretty reasonable!

In 2017 you appeared on Dragons’ Den, winning investment from Touker Suleyman. How has this changed your business?

A: At the time it was terrifying, but we wanted people to see our brand and what we were trying to achieve. We

decided not to go ahead with the investment, but we’ve seen Touker at a few industry events. It certainly raised the brand profile.

What have been your proudest business moments?

S: It’s hard to pick just one! The very first review we received from a really happy mum who loved our Moses basket gave us the confidence to carry on. The first time we saw Shnuggle baths in John Lewis was exciting too.

A: Being able to grow the business and expand the team. It’s a huge responsibility to employ others and we’ve been very lucky to find dedicated people who are as passionate about Shnuggle as us.

What’s next for Shnuggle?

A: We’re launching our most exciting product yet in the coming weeks. I can’t say too much, but do keep an eye on social media for the details.

S: We’re still full of ideas. As long as we keep safety at our core, and create products that make life easier, Shnuggle will continue to be loved for the right reasons. shnuggle.com

Teaching children to fly Open days 2019: 1 March 11 May 4 October Founded in 1947, Bassett House in Notting Hill is a proudly non-selective, co-educational prep school for 3 – 11 year olds.

We believe every child can learn to fly.

Individual teaching combined with our dynamic growth mindset approach teaches children to think fearlessly, consistently producing excellent academic results.

In the words of Mrs Philippa Cawthorne, the headmistress: ‘The spirit and enthusiasm of our pupils has to be seen to be believed.’

To arrange a visit, please call our registrar, Mrs Thalia Demetriades, on 020 8969 0313 or email registrar@bassetths.org.uk.

Bassett House School, 60 Bassett Road, London W10 6JP 020 8969 0313 | registrar@bassetths.org.uk | bassetths.org.uk