Baby Magazine April 2020

baby TH E LUXU RY PR E G N AN C Y &

PAR E N TI N G M AGA Z I N E

W I N! a

n 8-piece pushchai r bundle

APRIL 2020 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

Alesha

DIXON on family life

BREASTFEEDING POSITIONS

Finding what works for you

EMBRACE NATURE

HOW TO CAMP WITH YOUR BABY

WEAN O’CLOCK

RECIPES FOR THE BEST START

HAPPY BUNNIES

CAROLE MIDDLETON

on how to celebrate Easter

Make a splash THE BENEFITS OF SWIMMING WITH BABY

CELEBRATING THE GREAT OUTDOORS

£4.40

SPRING forward

2019 World's Leading Family & Beach Resort

“A gorgeous treat for kids and parents” The Daily Express (on My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty)

The Peacock, London 9 – 18 April

Churchill Theatre, Bromley 9 – 10 May

Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe 25 – 26 April

Richmond Theatre 27 – 31 May

Book now ballet.org.uk/myfirstballet Illustration: Mark Ruffle

CONTENTS APRIL 2020

FEATURES

45 PARTY TIME: EASTER TIME Make plans to celebrate baby’s first Easter with these eggstra-special ideas from Carole Middleton 46 DIXON DOES IT! Songwriter, dancer, model and author Alesha Dixon opens up about the most important role in her life: being a mother 52 HELLO, WORLD As the sunshine peeps through the clouds, Natalie Keeler uncovers the benefits of getting baby outside 54 BEHIND THE BRAND: PICCOLO Kate Freud meets the founder of the organic baby food brand to talk ingredients and sustainability 66 MAKE A SPLASH Sarah Dawson reveals what you need to ace that first trip to the swimming pool with your newborn

Millicent wears organic cotton sweatshirt, £12, Newbie. Knitted bloomers with braces, €59, Louis Louise. Leather boots, £22.99, Zara.

STYLE

36 ALL NATURAL Dress your little one up in super-soft, breathable cottons, linens and knits in soft tones this springtime

SHOPPING

23 BABY LOVES This month, we’re put the spotlight on Fabelab’s gorgeous Rainbow Valley nursery collection 25 DIGGING DEEP Whatever your style, say hello to spring with this season’s cutest wardrobe and nursery offerings

PHOTOGRAPHY: LOL JOHNSON

FOOD & TRAVEL

69 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest new treats for babies, toddlers and parents 70 SPRING FRESH Kickstart baby’s weaning with these tasty seasonal recipes from Piccolo’s infant nutritionist 75 TRAVEL NEWS We round up the hottest new getaways and products for young families

36 76 POSTCARD FROM BEDFORDSHIRE Rebecca Moore enjoys a family weekend away at Center Parcs in Woburn Forest 78 HAPPY CAMPERS Martha Alexander explains why it pays to be prepared when camping with tots

REGULARS

15 BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small Carole Middleton picks out the cutest Easter buys (p.45)

Alesha Dix on speaks ab out becomin a mum agai g n in her fort ies (p.4 6)

20 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you busy this April 19 WIN! AN ASTON ROSE SET This month, we’re giving away a luxury eight-piece carrycot and pushchair bundle, worth £699 31 MY ESSENTIALS We chat to presenter Anna Williamson about mental health, baby brands, and welcoming her new arrival

baby-magazine.co.uk | 5

50 EDITORIAL Editor-at-Large Kate Freud Editor Rebecca Moore Sub Editors Laura Sutherland, Natalie Keeler Editorial Assistant Henrietta Easton Online Editor Ruby Norris

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West

DESIGN Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Freelance Designer Matt Bookman

PUBLISHING Chairman Paul Dobson Chief Operating Officer Kevin Petley Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin Director of Media James Dobson Managing Director of Sales and Chelsea Create Steve Ross Publisher Caroline Scott Circulation Manager Daniel Webb EA to Chairman Sarah Porter

ADVERTISING Sales Director Cameron Hay Head of Market Julie Price Sales Executives Emma Cain, Miranda-Alix Forsyth

34 HOPPILY EVER AFTER Are you sitting comfortably? Emma O’Donovan puts forward the freshest spring reads for little ones 43 LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month, from cosy scampsuits to superhero slippers 49 DIARY OF A MUM In her latest instalment, our columnist Jakki Jokes and her growing bump head to Paris for a family weekend 50 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus first-time mum Amy Martin and baby Hayden put the iCandy Peach to the test 59 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS From skincare to baby tech, these are the latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing

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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

Anna Will iam son open s up about struggles w her ith postnata l depression (p.31)

61

Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert explains how stress can affect your unborn baby, with tips on how to handle it 63 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Ever wondered what the most comfortable breastfeeding position is – for both you and baby? Professor Amy Brown reveals all 64 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt offer advice on the potentially harmful bacteria in pregnancy and babies 81 THE REVIEW From the most stylish feeding gear, to the best for breastmilk, Laura Mason lines up the top bottles for baby 82 INSPIRE Samantha Brückner, founder of Toddlekind, talks chic interiors, making time for family, and her proudest business moments to date

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 2020 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHY: LOL JOHNSON Millicent wears cotton top, €48, Tiny Cottons.

Everyday travel companion This fully-featured compact stroller is perfect for city living or jet-setting travelers.

TRIV™ is cleverly designed with a seat that can face both ways and fold both ways, and can easily convert to a travel system.

The ring adapter can even fold with the frame, creating the perfect sidekick to your everyday adventures.

For a quick trip to the corner store or getting across town, TRIV is a natural city dweller that packs up quickly with a one-hand fold and stands on its own, keeping your busy hands free.

Find out more at nunababy.com

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Let baby celebrate the new season in style, head to toe in a ora le florals From a selection at boden.co.uk

Cotton all-in-one £14, mamasandpapas.com

EDITORS

LETTER

REBECCA MOORE, EDITOR

KEE @baby_mag_insta

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@BabyMagazineUK

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#babymag

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

@BabyMagazineUK

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Baby Carrier Mini £84.99, babybjorn.co.uk

gathering around the dining table, tucking into a delicious Sunday roast, followed by an unruly, all-ages egg hunt in the garden. This year, I’m going to whip up infant nutritionist Alice Fotheringham’s Quick Creamy Broccoli and Almond Soup with a generous slice of parmesan toast on the side as a warming starter (p.88). Rich in folate and vitamin C, it’s perfect for pregnancy, and is handy as a (perhaps futile) attempt to balance out the chocolate intake.

If you’re planning a cracking (sorry, couldn’t resist the pun) Easter celebration, then our resident party columnist Carole Middleton’s page is not to be missed (p.45). Her top tips on partying with a little one will have you hopping to it in no time at all.

Happy spring everyone!

O

Liewood bamboo set £22.50, scandiborn.co.uk

As the daffodils perched on my coffee table shine bright, and I get more familiar with my sunglasses being perched on my nose, I can say with great pleasure that spring has sprung, which I’m sure has come as a relief to many, especially those looking after an energetic little one. The days of being confined to your house and countless soft-play visits are over; it’s time to dust off your stroller, don your baby carrier and venture out.

Now if you need a push from the comforts of the sofa to open-space strolling, then our feature on getting outside with baby on page 52 is just the ticket. From bikes to baby carriers, we have all the inspo you need to embrace the great outdoors.

This month, my family and I took a car-free and care-free trip, as we headed for the trees in the woodland utopia of Woburn Forest. This adventure provided our party – from newborn to grandma – with the perfect mix of respite, relaxation and a good old-fashioned dollop of quality family time nestled in the woods. Read all about it on page 76.

For me, Easter is celebrated with a family

A Z I N E .C

@baby_magazine_uk

Leather shoes £29.99, startriteshoes.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 9

CHLO ËC

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LEON

SAR A H

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Where were you born?

At a lovely nursing home on Wimpole Street.

Favourite thing about spring?

It has to be spring bulbs and lambing.

Your perfect Easter weekend?

I love old-fashioned craft and we make everything from Easter bonnets to egg blowing and papier-mâché. I want the house to be full of friends, a good egg hunt and everyone eating too much chocolate!

Leo shares a few of her favourite things p.43

R , CREATIV ED LYE L O

CTO IRE

ST NI

Where were you born?

Leicester Royal Infirmary Favourite thing about spring?

The promise of sunnier days!

Your perfect Easter weekend?

Sunny dog walks, an Easter egg hunt for the kids in my parents’ lovely orchard and huge family gatherings with plenty of food and wine.

Sarah talks about the benefit of baby swimming on p.66

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CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

I was born in Crawley Hospital, West Sussex Favourite thing about spring?

The first day you step out of the office and it’s still light. And I hate being cold, so being able to wear just the one coat rather than my usual double layer of coats is bliss.

Your perfect Easter weekend?

I’d quite like to squeeze in a late-season ski trip! Failing that, a weekend filled with plenty of pub lunches will do.

BABY O NL INE

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When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment os a e a e ou a a fi

A Z I N E .C

The latest headlines and guidelines from the world of pregnancy and parenting

Check out our roundups and reviews of the best baby-friendly activities Browse our pick of the top maternity trends

O

CA M CA M COPE NH A G E N

L i b ert y L ond on . sca n diborn .co.u k . modern n u rsery.com . th ehu t.com ca mca mcopen h a gen .com

O F TH E M O N TH

l e PHOTOGRAPHED BY LOVE TO FRAME

Th s mo h s e s he o eous mo h o fie ho ves u o u e h mum m a a a e fa of u h ea he a so oves hav h s umm sse a a hhs a s o 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 6 March 2020.

12 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Explore the great outdoors with

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The Acorn Baby Carrier PRODUCT

For L ife’s L ittle Adventures www.littlelife.com

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It’s playtime Premium baby playmats

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NEWS

NEWS

UPDATING YOU ON ALL THINGS GRE AT AND SMALL

Arket’s eco-friendly new baby range means you can stock your tot’s wardrobe with a clear conscience

THE GREEN SCENE

ARKET has expanded its already manyfeathered bow with the launch of a newborn and baby collection made exclusively from responsibly-sourced and natural materials such as organic cotton, merino wool and recycled polyester. Supporting a no-waste initiative, each piece was designed for durability and to be passed on to others, with clever details that allow garments to follow the child’s growth.

Choose from bodysuits, rompers, overalls, T-shirts, cardis and socks in a colourful array of adorable styles. From £4, arket.com

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DESIGN-LED BABY INTERIORS COMPANY MOKEE HAS ANNOUNCED A PLEDGE TO HAVE ALL OF ITS PACKAGING MADE FROM RECYCLABLE MATERIAL BY JUNE THIS YEAR. THE BRAND HAS BEEN USING ONLY COTTON AND PAPER BAGS FOR SMALLER PRODUCTS SINCE THE END OF 2019. MOKEE WILL ALSO CUT DOWN ON PAPER BY SENDING EMAIL RECEIPTS. MOKEE.EU

baby-magazine.co.uk | 15

In the clear

Clean skin, clear conscience is sustainable adult-andbaby skincare brand, Skin Sapiens’ motto. Completely natural, 100 per cent vegan and kind to sensitive skin, the brand uses very few ingredients, all of which are clearly listed on the packaging. Skin Sapiens is also part of 1% for the Planet, meaning one per cent of each sale goes to climate-change charities. From £7, skinsapiens.com

BABES IN THE WOOD

Baby interiors brand Bobby Rabbit is treating us to a brand new Bedtime Story collection for little ones’ bedrooms. Forest Friends, a story written by Bobby Rabbit founder Nicky King, is the stuff of whimsical woodland childhood dreams. In an earthy palette of beige, grey, green and ochre, the playful line features a wooden cabin bed, an indoor tipi ideal for story time and an adorable range of Forest Friend toys, from foxes and badgers to snakes. From £4.50, bobbyrabbit.co.uk

A SPRING IN THEIR STEP

British brand Poco Nido has done it again with a beautiful new line of comfy, stylish shoes for the smallest of feet this summer. Bursting with tutti-frutti prints, the barefoot-friendly designs feature the label’s signature pull-on-stay-on technology and grippy suede soles, ideal for outdoor adventures. £19, poconido.com

RECENT SALES DATA COLLECTED AND ANALYSED BY LEADING BRA BRAND BRAVADO HAS REVEALED THAT 63% OF EXPECTANT MUMS ARE WEARING A SPORTS BRA RATHER THAN SPECIFIC MATERNITYWEAR BRAS DURING THEIR PREGNANCY, WHILE 42% OF WOMEN AREN’T INVESTING IN NURSING BRAS UNTIL THEIR LITTLE ONE ARRIVES. BRAVADODESIGNS.COM

WIN A SECRET

SAVIOURS BUNDLE

Secret Saviours is the only clinically-proven Stretch Mark Prevention System able to prevent stretch marks. With an 82 per cent success rate, this simple three-step system is centred around clever textile technology developed by surgeons at University College Hospital, London. The soft, stretchy underwear is printed with gripping pads which disperse the pressure of stretching skin and block the path of stretch marks as they try to rip downwards.

Accompanied by Day Gel to help the pads grip the skin and Night Cream to keep the skin supple. We’re giving away two sets worth £85 each! secretsaviours.com

Hung up on you...

Fall with Grace creates bespoke handmade clothes hangers for your little one’s clothes.

Born in a workshop deep in the West Sussex countryside, each order is personally processed and hand engraved with love by brother-andsister team Katie and Mark, using the finest Old English Oak wood. Engrave your hanger with baby’s name, birth or christening date and create a gift and keepsake you’ll be sure to treasure forever. From £35, fallwithgrace.co.uk

Visit our website to enter baby-magazine.co.uk/ competitions Mark your little darling’s birth date with a hand-engraved keepsake

Mum-of-three Laura puts pen to paper about all things parenting

HOME SWEET HOME

International Swedish fashion company Lindex have expanded their very popular baby line to include a Baby Home line of stylish pieces to brighten up bedrooms. Made from organic cotton and recycled polyester, the unisex range includes bedding, towels, soft toys and storage baskets in playful animal print and timeless Scandi patterns. From £5.99, lindex.com

SERIOUS FOAM-O

Looking for a playmat that offers plenty of crawl-space fun without sacrificing your carefully-styled interiors? Gus + Beau’s premium foam-tile designs come in a muted palette of simple patterns. With each set comprising six wipe-clean tiles that fit together to make a rug-sized soft spot, tummy time has never looked so good! £70, gusandbeau.com

WIN A PACAPOD

HARTLAND CHANGING BAG WITH METANIUM

We’ve teamed up Metanium to offer you the chance to win one of two Pacapod Hartland Baby changing bags, worth £94, plus a Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion to help soothe baby’s skin and prevent nappy rash, and the perfect size to keep in your changing bag. The Pacapod Hartland is beautifully streamlined with a clever pod system, leaving you hands-free and ready to go... metanium.co.uk

Visit our website to enter baby-magazine.co.uk/ competitions

BEST OF THE BLOGS

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

LAURA’S LOVELY BLOG

Mum to Logan, Aria and Bodhi, Laura lives in Berkshire with her family and their dog Florence. Her delightfully readable blog is an expression of all her loves, from motherhood and feminism to TV and handbags. Previously an editor, Laura reviews kids’ books and writes about getting little ones into reading. Her husband Ben contributes a weekly column, covering everything from family recipes to fatherhood. laurasummers.co.uk

KATIE ELLISON

Katie likes to document her life as wife to Jon and mother to Mads, Lottie and Wren through storytelling, photography and videos.

The family section of her blog is a beautifully photographed selection of posts covering everything from travel, home life, school, fitness tips, and snaps of their lovely pup Rolo. Follow for gorge fashion inspo, holiday tips, precious moments and one of the most pleasing Insta feeds ever. katieellison.co.uk

LE COIN DE MEL

Mother-of-four Mel’s family blog is her own creative space, where she shares ramblings, recipes and the ups and downs of family life, from allergies to adventures. Her main passion is food, and the delicious kid-friendly meals on her blog are inventive, inclusive and truly mouth-watering, from curried fish fingers to almond granola. Mel also has a crafty corner with homemade gifts and planet-saving home tips. lecoindemel.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 17

NEWS

Baby news roundup KATE FREUD Editor-at-large

I

f you’re looking for a brand that just screams summer, look no further than Sproet & Sprout, whose new collection is full of handdrawn cockatoos, lifebuoys and exotic tigers on earthy tones such as curcuma, mango and tropical green. The sustainable brand also uses the softest cotton, guaranteeing comfort and style in equal measure for your little one.

Colourful Dutch brand Sproet & Sprout is preparing us for summer with its sunny shades.

Available from alexandalexa.com

DUMMY RUN

As someone who clearly remembers the mixed blessing a dummy can be (you’re thrilled they take it at a six weeks when they’re screaming, then it’s one hell of a battle getting them to give it up when they’re two!), these new mini UV Portable Sterilisers from Munchkin are genius. They kill 99.99 per cent of bacteria and viruses in just 59 seconds, making life on the go with little ones in tow just that little bit easier.

SNUZ BUZZ

Make life on the run a little simpler with this pocket-size dummy steriliser from Munchkin. £19.99, munchkin.com

In a sea of neutrals and pastel shades, it’s lovely to see these punchy new bedding designs from sleep brand, Snuz. The rainbow, star and polka-dot themes are now featured across the cot, cot bed, crib and Moses basket ranges, ensuring a little cheer is added to any nursery scheme.

SUMMER VIBES

With summer, thankfully, just around the corner, I am already getting excited about the kids’ new-season wardrobes. That said, Willow is definitely going through a wearing-very-little-phase, so I’m hoping she’ll compromise with Spanish brand Bobo Choses’ beautiful soft cotton harem pants in a variety of wild prints, including blue spots, leopard and my personal favourite, hearts. When you’re two years old there isn’t really a need to wear much else...

The softest cotton is used for these Bobo Choses harem pants, making them ideal for keeping your little one cool this summer. £41, smallable.com Pack a punch of colour in your baby’s nursery with these beautiful prints from Snuz. From £17.95, snuz.co.uk

LET’S GET SOCIAL…

There are plenty of ways to get the lowdown on all things Baby

ONLINE

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FACEBOOK @babymagazineuk

INSTA

@baby_mag_insta

TWITTER

@BabyMagazineUK

PINTEREST

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WIN!

COMPETITION

an ASTON ROSE This month we are giving away a luxury eight-piece carrycot and pushchair bundle, which is sure to stand out in both town and country

8-PIECE SET

Worth £699, includes:

T&C’S: COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 24 MARCH 2020.

• PUSHCHAIR • CARRYCOT • CHANGING BAG • CHANGING MAT • SEAT LINER • FOOTMUFF • CUP HOLDER • RAIN COVER

S

pringtime strolls with your newborn baby are moments to cherish – and we can't think of a better way to rejoice in the longer days than to celebrate the launch of luxurious pushchair Aston Rose by giving away one of the stunning eight-piece pushchair and carrycot bundles to a lucky reader!

Beautifully blending the highest levels of safety and comfort with impeccable style and design, the Aston Rose is the gold standard for luxury travel systems. Available in a classic black or stone colourway, from the swish gold

accent detailing, to the cosy footmuff and luxe matching changing bag, no stone has been left unturned.

The fully-extendable canopy with ventilation provides maximum shade from the sun, while the large extendable shopping basket ensures that you and baby are ready to face the world. All these thoughtful details demonstrate that the Aston Rose has been designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Good luck! astonrosedesigns.com

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

Bach to Baby arrives in Islington, North London

APRIL

12 APRIL

Spring fest

1 SMALL LOLS

Egg hunts? Check. Chocolate? Check.

Newborn lambs? Check. Yep, it’s business as usual at Daylesford Farm this Easter weekend, where families will also have the chance to make floral crowns and tuck into a fabulous Sunday roast. daylesford.com

Enjoy grownup laughs without booking any childcare at Clapham Picturehouse’s Bring Your Own Baby. Note that comics will be using adult material, so only tots under 15 months will be admitted.

From £11, byobcomedy.com

It’s International Children’s Book Day! And we can think of nothing more appealing that cosying up with Julia Donaldson’s latest read, What the Ladybird Heard at the Seaside, which hits shelves today. An instant classic. £12.99, Macmillan Children’s Books

3 SHOP SMART

Your one-stop shop for tot gear, the Baby and Toddler Show at Sandown Park, will host more than 150 top parenting brands such as Bugaboo, Cybex and MaxiCosi, plus workshops on

dates for your Plush toy, £25, steiff.com

DIARY

Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy this month birth, sleep, and nutrition.

Running until 5 April, there’ll also be great deals to make the most of. Tickets from £11, babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

4 GO WILD

25 APRIL

#Mamaste

Spend two whole days relaxing, practising prenatal yoga and bonding with fellow mums-to-be at Mamamoon’s City Retreat in Hamburg this weekend. There’ll also be coaching workshops, hypnobirthing classes, and yoga sessions for partners. From £253, mamamoon.me

20 | baby-magazine.co.uk

What the Ladybird Heard at the Seaside, £9.35, whsmith.co.uk

Looking for a reason to get the family outside? Knettishall Heath Nature Reserve in Suffolk will host a Wild Walk today, where you can explore the woodland and do a bit of crafting too. While trails are buggy-friendly, baby slings or carriers are advised. From £2, suffolkwildlifetrust.org

10 GO FOR A DIP

Know your water snails from your pond skaters? Head to RSPB Newport Wetlands for a morning of pond dipping and sand sculpting, while little

ones learn about a huge range of creatures. rspb.org.uk

11 OINK OINK!

Pencil in a trip to Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall for Peppa Pig: My First Concert, where Peppa and her crew will learn about classical music, accompanied by a live orchestra. From £13, bridgewater-hall.co.uk

22 TWIT TWOO

Hear stories and play games based on The Owl and The Pussycat at Tyntesfield, North Somerset.

Starting at 10am, little ones can try fishing, take to water in their own boat, and create an owl decoration.

From £2, nationaltrust.org.uk

29 TIME TO TALK Today kicks off UK Maternal Mental Health Matters Awareness Week. Flick to page 31 to read our chat with presenter Anna Williamson on the subject. maternalmentalhealth alliance.org

30 HIGH NOTE

Much-loved classical concert series Bach to Baby pops up at St James’ Church in Islington this morning, where tots can dance and revel in the magic of live music performed by real professionals. £10, bachtobaby.com Mica car seat, £299, maxi-cosi.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: BACH TO BABY-AP

2 TELL TALES

Magic for baby, calm for you.

Our sensory essentials are designed with love and science to support babies’ visual and cognitive development.

The results are magical.

ettaloves.com

LOVE S

While full of whimsy, the designs come in muted shades, meaning that they’ll look super-chic even hen stre n a ross the floor

OVE R TH E R AIN BOW

High above the chimney tops, Fabelab land is where magic happens and dreams really do come true. Sweet as lemon drops, the Rainbow Valley collection taps into the wonderful world of fairytales in the Nordic brand’s deliciously chic Scandi style.

Made of the purest organic unbleached cotton in a soft spring palette of fresh green, raindrop blue and pastel pink, the playful range features baby basics and soft toys ready to welcome the joys of spring into your little one’s nursery.

From £8.98, fabelab.com

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A chair for life

Designed by: Peter Opsvik

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T H E C H A I R T H AT G R OW S W I T H T H E C H I L D™ TRIPP TRAPP® Created in 1972 by Norwegian designer Peter Opsvik, the iconic Tripp Trapp® chair has been used by more than 11 million children world-wide for over forty years. Unique and unchanged, it is height and depth adjustable to grow with your child, always offering a comfortable seat. Bring your baby to the table and into the heart of your family.

@stokkebaby | #chairforlife | stokke.com

SHOPPING

Donsje Amsterdam shoes £52, alexandalexa.com

Fiona Walker wall head £60, sorenshouse.co.uk

Cotton sleepsuit £21.99, kitandkin.com

DIGGING DEEP

Cybex Cloud Z i-Size car seat £224.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Wool bodysuit £16.99, zara.com

All pasteled out? Switch up your darling’s colour world with burnt orange, purple and forest green shades

Cotton hat £5, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Minimalisma top £31, smallable.com

Cotton dress £55, emileetida.com

Baby Carrier One Air £163.99, babybjorn.co.uk

T SAYI

RUS Cotton and bamboo bodysuit £22, babymori.com

Corduroy beanbag £104.99, oyoylivingdesign.co.uk

Cotton romper £60, oeufnyc.com

NG.. .

Plush toy £49.90, steiff.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 25

SHOPPING

RGINE

M

DREA

AUBE Plush toy £11, jellycat.com

Cotton T-shirt £9.95, gap.co.uk

Lambswool blanket £71.99, trouva.com

Cotton leggings £12, newbiestore.com

Get more mileage out of basics in transeasonal shades of deep purple, from violet to eggplant

Cahsmere jumper £86, kidpix.uk

Cotton beanie £40, oeufnyc.com

Ergobaby sling £50, alexandalexa.com

Bold Monkey chair £589, cuckooland.com

Corduroy dungarees £22, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

26 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Condor tights £12, kidly.co.uk

Donsje Amsterdam shoes £52, alexandalexa.com

Bobo Choses bloomers £20, smallable.com

Mima Moon highchair £425, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

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Bobo Choses bodysuit £29, alexandalexa.com

Linen pendant lamp £180, mindtheg.com

Mayoral trousers £27, childrensalon.com

Plush toy £23, jellycat.com

Fastfold pushchair £375, micralite.com

Cotton romper £40, arseneetlespipelettes.com

Cotton trainers ¤9.99, z-eshop.com

Soft Gallery joggers £43, smallable.com

Spruce up baby’s nursery and wardrobe with rich emerald and sage hues

Cotton sweatshirt £16.50, babymori.com

Cotton blanket £59, bayiriknits.com

Sproet & Sprout romper £36, alexandalexa.com

Sleepyhead Deluxe Pod £150, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Cotton sleepsuit £34, catimini.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 29

94% of parents would recommend Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment* Treatment Prevention

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INTERVIEW

Anna loves to dress her newborn daughter up in H&M’s super-cute babywear Cotton romper suit £14.99, hm.com

Anna and husband Alex welc omed their second child, Eleanora in Dec ember 2019

MY ESSENTIALS Congratulations on the birth of your daughter, Eleanora! How’s it all going?

Thank you! The last six weeks have been brilliant – I’m very much in my baby bubble and Eleanora and I bonded instantly.

She’s an absolute joy, and I’m really enjoying motherhood.

How has your three year old, Enzo, taken to having a sister?

He adores her and is embracing his new role as a big brother, which is wonderful as I was a bit concerned that he wouldn’t. He’s constantly trying to kiss and hug her, which is very sweet.

You suffered perinatal and postnatal depression with Enzo. How did you approach pregnancy this time?

I was initially very anxious, as I was worried about going through the trauma all over again. But because I knew roughly what to expect this time, I felt a lot more in control and had to remind myself that I’d done it before and got through it. Equally, I recognised

ANNA WILLIAMSON

We chat to the presenter about mental health, baby brands, and welcoming her new arrival that my body would know what was right in the moment and just go with the flow, which really took the pressure off. I also took more time to relax, and I did pregnancy yoga and practised hypnobirthing, and I ended up really enjoying it.

How were you supported emotionally this time?

The whole experience was completely different, because I had access to the mental health support I needed. I had some counselling sessions, just to readdress any flashbacks or

During this pregnancy, Anna practised hypnobirthing

Demi Grow pushchair from £600, shopnuna.co.uk

Enzo has taken to the big brother role with ease

reverse trauma from my last birth experience, and I opted for an elective caesarean, which is harder and takes longer to recover from, but was absolutely the right choice for me.

You’ve been vocal about the fact the stigma around perinatal and postnatal mental health.

Are things improving?

It’s definitely edging in the right direction, but much more needs to be done. One in five mothers experience mental health challenges before and after pregnancy, and because we’ve historically just swept it under the carpet, so many people are suffering unnecessarily. The NHS is now starting to put more into it, but currently new mothers only get three minutes on average to talk about how they’re feeling mentally after birth. More needs to be done to acknowledge that pregnancy, labour and parenthood can be as much of an upheaval emotionally as they are physically, and that it’s okay to say that you’re not okay.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 31

This BabyBjörn bouncer is one of her must-have home purchases Bouncer Bliss £154.99, babybjorn.co.uk

Anna’s making the most of her time in the cosy baby bubble

You also made a brilliant documentary for BBC Inside Out. Can you tell us about it?

It’s quite a raw, warts-and-all side to my story, and it gave me the chance to meet other parents who were going through varying degrees of mental health issues, from day-to-day struggles to being sectioned in a mother-and-baby unit. I felt such an overwhelming amount of empathy for the people I spoke to, and a realisation that it doesn’t matter which race, religion, age or social class you identify with, we can all experience the same challenges. I just want people to know that they don’t have to suffer in silence, and I’ll continue to raise awareness until I feel like there’s enough being done.

What needs to change?

Time and space are absolutely essential to allow women to process how they’re feeling, and just as we have six-week physical checkups, I think there needs to be mandatory six-week checkups

32 | baby-magazine.co.uk

to address emotional and mental health, too. The support is there, but we currently don’t have the infrastructure or funding in place for those who need it to access it.

What do you like to do when you have time for yourself?

Guilt-free me-time is important to me, and I like to have a beauty treatment or bubble bath – I’m going for a facial next week, which I’m really looking forward to. The best gift you can give any new parent is time; even the luxury of shaving your legs in peace can make you feel so much better!

Me-time is very important to Anna, so she always makes sure there’s a beauty treatment in the calendar

Where do you like to shop for Enzo and Eleanora?

There are some lovely ecofriendly brands, like Frugi, that I think are really cute. H&M has gorgeous baby clothes, and I’m a massive fan of Matalan, as the clothes are so affordable and such good quality.

We also have a lovely BabyBjörn bouncer and Nuna travel system, plus an iCandy, which we keep at my parents’ house.

Do you have any favourite interiors brands?

I really love My 1st Years! 3 Sprouts also has some very cute storage boxes for the nursery, and Eleanora sleeps in a Shnuggle Air Bedside Crib at the moment, which is great.

What’s the best thing about being a mum?

It sounds a bit corny, but motherhood gives me this feeling of 3 Sprouts Toy Storage Box completion. It £17.95, hurnandhurn.com took me a little while to get into my mum stride and I feel like I had a bit of a false start, but now I’m three-anda-half years into the role, I can honestly say it’s the best job in the world!

Anna Williamson’s BBC Inside Out documentary is available on BBC iPlayer now.

INTERVIEW: NATALIE KEELER. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/ANNAWILLIAMSONOFFICIAL; ISTOCK/SNORKULENCIJA

Motherhood makes Anna feel complete

Hoppily ever after

Emma O’Donovan PUTS FORWARD THE FRESHEST SPRING RE ADS FOR LIT TLE ONES

THAT’S NOT MY CHICK

By Fiona Watt & Rachel Wells With an abundance of fluff on every page, tots are encouraged to identify the perfect spring chick in this seasonal addition to a popular series. £6.99, Usborne

BOOKS

Join this eager band of bunnies in their pursuit of Easter eggs

GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU: 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

By Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram

A luxurious limited edition print of a much-loved, heart-warming classic. A bookshelf essential. £6.99, Walker Books

BEE MINE

ILLUSTRATION: RACHEL WELLS

By Patricia Hegarty and Bryony Clarkson A rhyming celebration of love and friendship told with a host of jolly bugs and mini beasts. The perfect calming story to read at bedtime. £6.99, Caterpillar Books

BUNNY MAKES BREAKFAST

By Seb Braun

With 35 flaps and a recipe at the back of the book, little bunnies will delight in helping Blossom forage and hunt for all of the ingredients needed to make her favourite breakfast. £7.99, Little Tiger Press

RABBIT! RABBIT! RABBIT!

By Lorna Scobie

When Rabbit unexpectedly ends up with more than several siblings, a serious action plan is required.

This funny bunny tale with a surprise ending is sure to become a firm family favourite. £6.99, Scholastic

WHERE’S BABY CHICK?

By Ingela P Arrhenius

Large, brightly-coloured felt flaps perfect for little hands provide

hiding places for friendly faces.

A supremely stylish story full of hide-and-seek fun. £6.99, Nosy Crow

WE’RE GOING ON AN EGG HUNT

By Laura Hughes

A charmingly illustrated Easter adventure unfolds as we embark on an egg hunt alongside a band of eager rabbits. Collect the eggs as you go, while watching out for a wolfish surprise. £11.99, Bloomsbury

Easter treat is an utter delight. £7.99, Chronicle Books

GOODNIGHT, LITTLE DUCKLING

By Amanda Wood

A fresh series cleverly created to enhance baby’s bedtime routine.

These chic books filled with adorable baby animals will make the perfect gift for new parents. £8.99, Magic Cat Publishing

POPPY AND SAM AND THE BUNNY

EGGS ARE EVERYWHERE

By Sam Taplin and Simon Taylor-Kielty

A stunning and highly entertaining game-in-a book. Turn the wheel to hide the eggs, then guess where they’ve ended up. This

Our friends Poppy and Sam have been joined by a fluffy bunny finger puppet in this fun and interactive farmyard-based story. £7.99, Usborne

By Wednesday Kirwan

baby-magazine.co.uk | 35

THIS PAGE: Amari wears cotton sweatshirt, €40, Mini A Ture. Jersey leggings, £5.99, Zara. Jute basket, £19.99, Zara Home.

Cotton blanket, £34.99, H&M Home.

Jute rug, £39.99, H&M Home.

RIGHT PAGE: Millicent wears flannel playsuit, €55, Emile et Ida. Cotton seersucker tunic, €44, Arsene et les Pipelettes.

A L L N AT U R A L It’s time for a spring refresh, and where better to start than baby’s wardrobe? Think super-soft, organic and breathable cottons in cream, pastel and sunshine hues PHOTOGR APHY: LOL JOH NSON

ST YLING: H EBA KLEIN ER

THIS PAGE: Winston wears organic cotton bodysuit, £8, Newbie. Knitted leggings, £9.99, H&M RIGHT PAGE: Amani wears linen romper, £77, Caramel. Knitted cardigan, €76, Louis Louise. Straw basket, £17.99, H&M Home.

Jute rug, £39.99, H&M Home.

LEFT PAGE: Aubrie wears cotton blouse, £82, Chloé at Childrensalon.

Knitted leggings, £14.99, Zara. Organic cotton quilt, £53, Numero 74. Straw basket, £17.99, H&M Home.

THIS PAGE: Amari wears cotton shirt, £63, Caramel. Knitted cardigan, £33, Paloma De La O at Childrensalon. Trousers with straps, £14.99, Zara. Leather boots, £22.99, Zara.

Organic cotton quilt, £53, Numero 74.

Cotton blanket, £34.99, H&M Home.

SPECIAL THANKS TO MODELS: AMANI, AMARI, AUBRIE, MILLICENT, WINSTON. MODEL AGENCIES: BONNIE & BETTY, BRUCE & BROWN, GRACE & GALOR, KIDS LONDON.

Designer baby bags for mums and dads who love bold prints and vibrant colour! www.bubbleandpop.co.uk

BABY TALK

A

My toddler’s always falling over when we’re out walking, so I’ve taken to wrapping him up in this adorable snow scampsuit, which comes in lots of different colours and weights. Sizes start at newborn to six months. £75, muddypuddles.com

pril showers and Peppa Pig springs to mind this month. I always make the most out of ‘jumping in muddy puddles’ at this time of year and it’s been so mild that less layering has been needed. It’s nice to get out and about, and I’ve been using the Hoop app to keep up with what’s going on in town – perfect for those rainy days and beyond!

Leo’s

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

WHERE TO GO This month I’m taking one of my godchildren to Deen City Farm: a sweet little farm that’s part of The National Trust’s Morden Hall Park. You can buy some animal feed for the 150-plus residents – which include Kimby, a cute alpaca and Edna the barn owl – as well as some locally-sourced jam for yourself. There’s always loads happening here, from lambing to riding lessons. There are more farms than you realise in London, so hit up Google to find one near you. deencityfarm.co.uk

LITTLE LUXURIES OUR COLUMNIST Leonora Bamford SHARES HER FAVOURITE THINGS THIS MONTH

I never know what to put on a baby’s feet at this time of year, but mine all lived in Moccis. I have to say, I’m digging these new superhero ones. I know they’re classed as slippers, but they’re perfect for baby feet.

From £25, moccis.co.uk

With the outdoors on my mind, I never leave home without a beaker for my son.

And Munchkin’s cups are the absolute best. With a huge range of super-cute designs, I couldn’t love them more.

Munchkin toddler sippy cup, £7.49, amazon.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 43

W E

N

FROM THE TEAM BEHIND BABY MAGAZINE

The Ultimate Baby Book

Your guide to pregnancy and beyond The Ultimate Baby Book showcases expert advice from the country’s leading professionals offering tips on everything from feeding to antenatal care, alongside helpful shopping guides which demystify the world of baby kit. Designed to help expectant parents navigate a whole new lifestyle; from selecting the perfect pushchair to finding the best location for baby’s first holiday.

You can buy The Ultimate Baby Book for £6.99 at all good newsagents and supermarkets nationwide, and online at chelseamagazines/ultimatebaby

PICK UP YOUR COPY NOW!

1

PARTIES

It doesn’t have to just be about the chocolate-based gifts at Easter time

SET THE SCENE

PARTIES

Spring has sprung with our Easter edit

with Carole Middleton

2

Paper bunting £3.99, partypieces.co.uk Woven flower basket £4.95, rexlondon.com

3 Table cover £8.99, partypieces.co.uk

4 Paper plates (pack of eight) £1.99, partypieces.co.uk

5 Iced Easter biscuits £22, honeywellbakes.com

6

1. Liewood basket £26.50, nubie.co.uk 2. Meri Meri rattle £17, smallable.com 3. Cotton knitted hat £16.99, kitandkin.com 4. Plush toy £12, jellycat.com 5. Ewan the Dream Sheep £29.99, johnlewis.com 6. Cotton bodysuit £11.99, sleep-no-more.com

EASTER TIME

Celebrate this spring weekend with egg hunts, crafted bonnets and cute bunny-themed décor

I

t’s time to grab your basket and don your best bonnet because Easter’s just around the corner! And I can’t think of a more perfect way to welcome in the spring than with a themed celebration at home or in the garden. From egg hunting to crafts, make time for some family fun, filling the afternoon with activity and sweet treats. Plus it’s the perfect excuse to dress baby up in bunny-themed attire – there are some adorable hats and booties to swoon over.

Firstly, make sure your party is adorned with seasonal décor – colourful baskets filled with painted eggs, spring wreaths, a bright or faux-grass table runner and lots of animal-themed details all ooze Easter fun. Get crafty with an egg-decorating station. Fill a table with paints, pens and activity sheets, and dish out the hard-boiled eggs. If you’re worried about giving your toddler real eggs, you can also buy lightweight faux versions – and even paint-your-own egg kits – from most craft stores.

Finally, encourage them to burn off some energy with a mini egg hunt. Hide some plastic or chocolate eggs in the garden or around the house, and see who can collect the most! Older children and parents will love the chance to take on an egg-and-spoon race too with a chocolate treat for the winner!

Carrot cake £22, marksandspencer.com

Balloon kit (pack of eight) £15.99, partypieces.co.uk

Cotton-mix bodysuit £66, stellamccartney.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 45

INTERVIEW

Alesha’s LOVES

Diana Ross. “Growing up she was one of the true female icons I would look up to,” she says.

“Her music carried such a grace and emotive quality, but she could mix it up with some uptempo stuff. She is the complete artist.”

Aquazurra. The stylish heels have been seen on Meghan Markle, but Alesha has recently taken to wearing them on Britain’s Got Talent.

Dogs. Dogs have always played a big role in Alesha’s life. At present she has four – golden cocker spaniels Rose, Prince and Paris, and Daisy, a pointer who was rescued from a previous owner by the RSPCA.

HATES

Fear of failure. A troubled home-life when growing up led Alesha to miss one of her scheduled GCSE exams. She says she went to her school the following day in floods of tears convinced she had messed up her chance to aspire to something in life. “Fear of failure has defined me since as far back as I can remember – it’s what has brought me back from the brink on many occasions.”

Mirrors. “Or rather, I used to hate mirrors.

Even when I was in Mis-Teeq, I had a real problem looking at myself. I knew that was something I would need to get over, and I knew as well it was nothing to do with physicality, more what was going on mentally. As my selfesteem has improved, so too has my appreciation of who I am.”

46 | baby-magazine.co.uk

After a stellar music career, Alesha has reached the top tier of light entertainment as a Britain’s Got Talent judge

INTERVIEW

• TA L K I N G W I T H A L E S H A D I X O N •

DIXON DOES IT!

Songwriter, dancer, model, author: while Alesha Dixon’s work ethic has never ee ou he o she fi s fam has a e he o e he h s erhaps it’s because she’s seen the booming highs and the crashing lows of the music industry as one quarter of British R&B/garage pop princesses Mis-Teeq; perhaps it’s the reflections of a troubled upbringing that saw her witness domestic abuse and the break-up of her parents’ relationship; or perhaps it’s a result of watching the swaying fortunes of those who perform in front of the judges at Britain’s Got Talent. Whatever it is, Alesha Dixon’s outlook on life is very much ‘what will be, will be’ – a philosophy that holds her career and marriage close, and her children closest.

You sense that in Azura Sienna and Anaya Safiya, Alesha has found security, salvation and no small amount of purpose, in a life and career that has offered so much in terms of money, status, success and adulation, yet never given her what she has truly wanted – the love and fulfilment we associate with being a parent.

“I think there’ll always be the perception that if you’re successful and in the limelight, that that’s all anyone wants, but I knew very quickly that wasn’t going to be enough and, perhaps because of a difficult childhood, I yearned to be a good mother,” she begins.

She most certainly is that now. Born to father Azuka Ononye – the pair reportedly married in 2017 but Alesha has never officially declared that to be true – daughters Azura, six, and Anaya, born August 2019, are both in the image of their hard-working parents… Azuke is a dancer and choreographer. In fact, her eldest even took on the mini-me tag after a series of adorable Instagram snaps of the little girl and her mother.

“She had me from the very first moment I saw her, and with every day she just keeps evolving into this incredible person,” says Alesha. “I can see a lot of me in her.

“I think a lot of what I experienced in the record industry reflects quite nicely with becoming a parent. There are so many amazing days and incredible experiences, but at other times, everything seems so challenging and so difficult.

Ultimately, you always know the battles are worth it and there’s always a solution up ahead.”

One of the battles Alesha encountered was the literally, weight of expectation she experienced when getting back into shape. “The spotlight is on you and the press love to make a story out of body size. It can be a real problem for people to think they have to shed the pounds, but I’ve worked hard mentally to ensure that’s not the

WORDS: SIMONE LEE. PHOTOGRAPHY: REX IMAGES/BROADIMAGE/SHUTTERSTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/ALESHAOFFICIAL

P

sort of thing that’s going to influence me,” she says. “I was always so much the other way – if it was natural and if mother nature intended it to be this way, then that’s just what it’ll be.

“If there’s one thing that I could say to new mothers or expectant mums, it’s to do absolutely everything that’s right for you. Don’t be swayed by what others say, don’t bow down to pressure or stereotypes – just be yourself!”

Alesha, who has been a judge on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent for eight years, first leapt into the spotlight in 1999 when girl band Mis-Teeq were signed to Telstar Records. The London-based foursome enjoyed significant commercial success before splitting in 2005, and while her subsequent solo career stalled at first, excelling as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing dancefloor saw her promoted back to the top level of light entertainment.

Tracks The Boy Does Nothing and Breathe Slow both went top five, and she was still hitting the charts regularly in 2009 when the offer to join the judging panel on Strictly Come Dancing was made. Three years later, when Simon Cowell’s BGT office called, she switched allegiances to ITV, reportedly tripling her salary in the process.

As for what the future holds, Alesha is certainly keen to extend her family. She grew up in a busy household in Welwyn Garden City, surrounded by six half-siblings. “There was always something going on, there was always activity, and really that’s the sort of energy I envisaged I would have with my own family.”

While she feared age had run away with her in the lead-up to second daughter Anaya being born, the singer and presenter accepts now that there may still be time to add to her brood. “I think once you have a second child you worry a lot less, as I think there’s proof there that you still have it, in a way.”

As for her aspirations for her children – typically, Alesha returns to that stabilising mantra of ‘what will be, will be’. “Clearly we’re both parents who have performing careers and it would follow then that the children we have would fall into that area, but to be truthful, we have no expectations whatsoever.

“All any parent wants is for their children is for them to be healthy and happy – if you have those two things, then I think you have everything in life.”

Alesha and Azuka wou ldn’t rule ou adding to th t eir happy fa mily of four

baby-magazine.co.uk | 47

NEXT ISSUE

IN THE MAY ISSUE OF

STOCKISTS ARSENE ET LES PIPELETTES ARSENEETLESPIPELETTES.COM BOBOCHOSES.COM

CARAMEL

CARAMEL-SHOP.CO.UK

CHLOÉ

CHILDRENSALON.COM

EMILE ET IDA

EMILEETIDA.COM

H&M HOME

HM.COM

LOUIS LOUISE

LOUISLOUISE.COM

MINI A TURE

MINIATURE.COM

MINIMALISMA

ALEXANDALEXA.COM

NEWBIE

NEWBIESTORE.COM

PALOMA DE LA O

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SCANDIBORN

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SOFT GALLERY

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TINY COTTONS

TINYCOTTONS.COM

ZARA

ZARA.COM

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/TATYANA_TOMSICKOVA

BOBO CHOSES

We round up the BEST-LOOKING PUSHCHAIRS on the market The tastiest springtime WEANING RECIPES for a healthy start FAVOURITE SKINCARE PRODUCTS for both mother and baby

Style inspiration WITH THE MOST BEAUTIFUL NURSERIES

ON SALE

MARCH

48 | baby-magazine.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: LOL JOHNSON

Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt discuss WHAT HAPPEN WHEN YOU HAVE A RETAINED PLACENTA

Amani wears blouse, €37.34, MINI A TURE. Jersey shorts, €36, ARSENE ET LES PIPELETTES. Jute rug, £39.99, H&M HOME.

DIARY OF A MUM

MY TOP FINDS

@JAKKIDOODLES

LOVE necklace, £50, smellthecactus.com

MY STAR PRODUCT I had a Silver Elwood gifted to me four years ago when I had Riley and it was literally a godsend. Not only does it look cool as hell, it’s so practical and even an insulated compartment for a bottle of milk (or mini bottle of prosecco!). This pastel pink number is a definite must for me… LOVE! Tiba and Marl Elwood Bag, £140, tibaandmarl.com

DIARY OF A MUM

Trish McAvoy Instant Eye Lift, £40, trishmcevoy.com

PART 2

Her husband’s latest tour sees Jakki, her daughter Riley and the growing bump en route to Paris for a French family weekend to remember eing married to a professional musician – as you can imagine – means he’s on the road a lot. Most recently he has been away on the Stereophonics’ European tour. We thought it’d be a great opportunity for a family mini-break. Riley – our three year old – has never been to Paris, so we decided it would be a timely opportunity to take her! And with my baby bump growing fast, I figured it’s now or never… or at least for 2020 anyway.

Eurostar makes travel a whole lot easier with a little lady in tow. We set off early Sunday morning, feeling smug about our impressive packing. We pre-planned outfits for each day, made an immense packed lunch for the journey, and remembered all the usual tech devices, headwear and activity bag.

Paris adventure– here we come!

As suspected, the Eurostar journey was gorgeous, pain free and comfortable. And with our M&S picnic, this was fine dining at its best! We arrived at the wonderful Hyatt Paris Madeleine later that day and Riley was delighted to be welcomed by a pick ’n’ mix stall in reception. Kelly arrived a few hours later and we ran out to meet him as his car pulled up! Despite this being work for him, he was able to have a relaxing family evening, with a rare day off the following day.

Being tourists for only a couple of days it would be rude not to pay a visit to the Eiffel Tower. When we reached the top, who did we bump into, but Kelly’s bandmate, Adam! Despite the drizzle, the view never disappoints, and

B

Roald Dahl & NHM T-shirt, £9, marksandspencer.com

Faux leather headband, £45, borninthesun.co.uk

tting to join ghlight was ge re Riley’s Paris hi ge for his enco her daddy on sta

with JAKKI JONES

Riley loved the excitement of it all. After taking in the Parisian panorama, we took a carousel ride and scoffed a delicious Nutella-filled crepe.

The highlight of the trip was most definitely our evening at daddy’s concert – where Riley was guest of honour. Every door was opened for her and a goodie bag was waiting for her in the dressing room, bursting with treats. This being-on-the-road malarkey is brilliant! But there’s no doubt about it, attending a gig with a toddler is eventful; we moved from stage side to sound desk, up to the balcony and back to the dressing room for snacks, not easy at six months pregnant. At the end of the gig, I suggested to Riley that we go to the side of the stage to see ‘daddy’s last song’. She ran to him as we bumped into him in the corridor ahead of the last track. A big good-luck hug certainly perked Kelly up before he took to the stage one last time.

As they started to play Dakota, Riley ran out on stage before I could pull her back. Luckily, she stopped, and just sat down crossed legged and began to clap at the side of the stage. She watched her dad in amazement until the end where she jumped to her feet for a standing ovation. By this point the audience were now looking at Riley, rather than the band. Elation peaked when Kelly summoned her over at the end of the song and lifted her up high to rapturous applause from the audience. Although she wasn’t fazed in the slightest it was a night for us all to remember. Now, perhaps a more chilled-out babymoon is on the cards next…

baby-magazine.co.uk | 49

TOT GEAR

COME RAIN OR SHINE

Never let mother nature stop you adventuring with baby again, with smart parenting brand Infantino’s new ergonomic Baby Carrier, In Season. No need for additional carriers or covers: Baby will stay toasty in winter, thanks to the special cotton insulation panel and full rain cover, which folds easily into the side pocket, and cool in summer, thanks to the Breathe Mesh panel and muslin hood for sleep and sun protection. £74.99, infantino.com

tot gear

NEWS COOL AND CLEVER BABY KIT FOR NEW FAMILY LIFE

The Cybex Balios S Lux Pushchair is designed to take you from city streets to country lanes with a smooth ride; the suspension on the large all-terrain wheels makes cobblestones, pavements and rural tracks a doddle, while functions like the memory buttons, one-hand fold mechanism an full lie flat osition of the a rest make life on the move with baby easier.

From £399.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

THE LONG HAUL

WHEEL THIS WAY

Wheeling in this spring is the latest in MaxiCosi’s Lila range, the Lila CP. Designed for modern urban and suburban life, it has taken on the range’s most popular features, including a dual-sided, thermo-regulated mattress for all-season comfort and four-wheel suspension for an ultra-smooth ride. The Lila CP is even fitted with an integrated nap keeper to shut out sunlight and insects. £489, maxi-cosi.co.uk

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Designed to stand the test of time, the TRES i-Size car seat by Nuna is suitable from birth to 12 years. Fitted with top safety technology, it will cradle your newborn and support your tween. Fitted with six recline positions and a ten-position adjustable headrest, it comes with two seat covers – to stay warm in winter and cool in summer. £300, nunababy.com

A SURVEY BY KIDDI CARU REVEALS THAT A QUARTER OF UK PARENTS OF UNDERFIVES ARE BREAKING THE LAW WHEN CHOOSING A CAR SEAT. ONE IN 10 WRONGLY BELIEVE BABIES CAN SWITCH TO A FORWARD-FACING SEAT AT JUST SIX MONTHS

REVIEW

THE REVIEW

FIRST TIME MUM Amy Mar tin AND BABY Hayden PUT THE ICANDY PE ACH THROUGH ITS PACES

W

e wanted (what we now know is called) a travel system that was both stylish and practical. It was important to us that it collapses easily, but also springs back into life swiftly, allowing us to take Hayden wherever he needs to go.

The pushchair’s weight was also an important consideration, as we wanted all members of our family to be able take him out. That meant the pushchair in question needed to be sturdy yet nimble and not too cumbersome, without sacrificing quality – were we asking too much?! iCandy is the brand that we were instantly drawn to. The Peach is a much-trusted pair of wheels now on its sixth generation – and to us it felt practically perfect in every single way.

But what really sealed the deal was the launch of the new Twill and Check editions.

A ride in his iCandy Peach = sweet dreams for Hayden

GOOD LOOKING? This is one very sleek and good-looking travel system. We like that it has the classic pram shape, but with a contemporary feel. The wide range of colour combos available allowed us to select colourways that reflect our taste.

We also love that you’re given the option to choose the frame colour, and were smitten with the blue check and phantom finish pairing. It’s refreshing to be able to go for something other than black or chrome, and the fabric is plush yet practical. We’ve had lots of compliments from friends and family.

USABILITY Folding and unfolding the Peach is now second ‘Pushee’ Amy loves the Peach’s soft, padded handle bars

The bassinet doubles u as a erti e e for overnight sleep and day-bed naps

Amy loves her pushchair’s bespoke blue check and phantom finish

nature to us – of course the first few attempts aren’t exactly effortless, but it’s a doddle once you’ve done it a couple of times. The day-today use is so simple, the wheels are smooth and it’s very easy to push and glide around using just one hand.

The bassinet attaches securely and clicks into place and the buttons for releasing the bassinet are easy to unlock. You can also raise the bassinet (or seat unit) with the supplied iCandy elevators. The handle length is easily adjustable to make it accessibel for different heights too, plus the basket below is generous, fitting a good amount of shopping in.

COMFORT Hayden always snoozes so peacefully when he’s tucked up in the Peach, which must means he’s pretty comfortable in there. We’ve been out in some pretty windy weather but he seems unfazed, content and snuggly. The bassinet has also doubled as a nifty day bed

for him when we’re downstairs, and it’s certified for overnight sleeping. As for the ‘pushee’ benefits, the handlebar is nicely padded and soft either side of the button to raise the bar, and is a super-smooth ride.

VERDICT The Peach is a smart and practical solution for our and Hayden’s travel needs and he’s very happy when he’s in it. We thoroughly enjoy using it and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an easy to use and comfortable travel system.

From £999, icandyworld.com

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DAYS OUT

Hello, world

AS THE SUNSHINE PEEPS THROUGH, THERE’S AN ARR AY OF BENEFITS TO GET TING BABY OUTSIDE, SAYS Natalie Keeler e all know that a bit of fresh air is good for our health, but for your little one, time spent outside is crucial. From stimulating her senses to establishing good sleeping patterns, research shows that even a short stroll outdoors can have a huge impact on her development as she learns to process her surroundings.

Simply talking to your baby as you walk and describing the things you see can help to promote early language development, according to the European Journal of Social Sciences Education and Research. The fresh air also offers a sense of calm, which translates into quality sleep time.

Other studies have shown that introducing her to different environments promotes the formation of her brain synapses, making her more adept at learning, plus you’ll probably feel better for it, too. Happy exploring!

W

The Thule Yepp Nexxt Maxi comes with shock-absorbing abilities for rougher rides

Scooters

Bike seats

Whether you’re out on a family cycle, or trying to get from A to B, attaching a bike seat to your own pair of wheels means baby can join the ride. Most designs are best suited to nine months and above, as she needs to be able to sit up unsupported. Some, like the Thule Yepp Nexxt Maxi, can carry children up to six years. Priority number one?

Safety. The seat should have an adjustable, padded three- or five-point harness, like the Hamax Caress Child Seat, to keep her securely strapped in for the journey. Footrests are a must, as are foot straps, to avoid the risk of tiny feet getting caught in your bike spokes.

The seat should also have full back and head support, padded seating, built-in reflectors and added safety buckles.

The Hamax Caress Child Seat can be adjusted to allow baby to snooze comfortably in the back while you’re on the go.

Hamax Caress Child Seat

Once your baby is a bit older, a scooter is a fun alternative to sitting that helps develop hand-eye coordination, muscles and balance. Signs that she’s ready are if she’s reaching and grasping objects, in control of her head position, and in the initial stages of walking, usually from 12 months. Scooters take little ones through the years, thanks to robust structure and adjustable heights. Micro Scooter’s 3in1 Deluxe Push Along Scooter is for 12 months to five years; its sleek design comes with an extra-grippy footplate – to help balance – and a handlebar that grows. Globber’s Evo Comfort Scooter is for 15 months to nine years; built for comfort, it has an extrawide seat on which she can perch. When she’s confident enough to take control, just remove the footrest and handle, and let her loose!

Mini Micro 3in1 Deluxe Push Along Scooter £119.95, micro-scooters.co.uk

£154.99, evanscycles.com

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Globber Evo Comfort Scooter £90, kidly.co.uk

DAYS OUT It’s essential to have a pushchair that’s fearless in the face of an unpredictable climate

Joie Versatrax Pushchair From £300, uberkids.com

Pushchairs

The great outdoors offers up a multitude of terrains, which means you’ll need a pushchair that’s robust, easy to steer, and fearless in the face of the unpredictable British climate.

Because high-spec strollers are an investment for most, longevity is key: you’ll want a pair of wheels that takes you from those very early days to just past toddler stage. A seat that diffuses vibration, like that offered by Micralite’s FastFold – suitable from newborn to five years – also ensures a comfortable ride for baby, while its one-handed steering function and lightweight design make muddy days out in the country a breeze. Joie’s Versatrax stroller similarly makes outdoor ventures super-easy, with its adjustable forward- and rear-facing seat and multi-position recline, not to mention its weatherproof canopy, which will keep baby sheltered come rain or shine.

THE OUT AND ABOUT EDIT

Carriers DoddleFliptop Set £9.99, doddlebags.com Toddler reins £12.99, littlelife.com

Changing bag £99, mamasandpapas.com

Piccolo Squares £0.99, planetorganic.com Leather backpack £295, kerikit.com

Baby carriers are essential on a family day out, especially if there are other youngsters in your pack. Baby-wearing comes with several other plus-points, too; it encourages bonding, aids her balance, boosts breast milk production due to the close contact, and stimulates her early language development.

While she’s small, a forward-facing design like the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Move is perfect – suitable from newborn to 15 months, easy to take on and off, and offering proper support for her back, legs and hips. Once she’s older, something like the Little Life Cross Country S4 Child Carrier is ideal, suitable from six months to three years, with breathability, an adjustable back system and foot stirrups, plus a viewing mirror and sunshade for warm days.

Cross Country S4 Child Carrier £169.99, littlelife.com

Baby Carrier Move £119.99, babybjorn.co.uk

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Six-year-old Juliet is very much part of the business

PROFILE

Cat co-founded Piccolo with creative Kane O’Flaherty and nutritionist Alice Fotheringham

BEHIND THE BRAND

PICCOLO Kate Freud MEETS THE INFANT FOOD BR AND’S FOUNDER CAT GAZZOLI TO FIND OUT HOW HER KITCHEN TABLE IDE A BECAME A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Cat’s daughter Juliet was the inspiration behind the brand

baby-magazine.co.uk | 55

PROFILE

“

s with everything I do, the decisions I make are with new mums and their babies in mind – I feel passionately that parents should be given choices that work for their family.” Cat Gazzoli, founder of Piccolo baby food is explaining the ethos behind the company with such enthusiasm, it’s clear there’s much more to this brand than delicious Mediterranean-inspired fare for babies and toddlers.

As a mother herself – she has a six-year-old daughter Juliet and is pregnant again – Cat is a rare breed in the business world – an entrepreneur with a strong social conscience and priorities which reach far beyond her profit margins.

Much of this is down to Cat’s earlier career, working in the charity sector with the United Nations food agencies in Rome, and later as CEO of Slow Food UK, the global campaigning organisation for good, clean and fair food.

“My father ran a refugee agency for the UN, so I guess you could say the giving back thing is in my blood,” Cat explains. “And I strongly believe that businesses – no matter whether they’re a huge multinational corporation or a tiny kitchen table startup like Piccolo – all have a duty to help.”

One of Piccolo’s early champions was celebrated chef and Great British Bake Off host Prue Leith, who had such faith in the concept she invested in the brand herself.

“She was a huge supporter and encouraged me to start the company,” explains Cat. “I’m

A

Piccolo donates the range to the British Red Cross for refugees

very grateful to her as I’ve been able to make more of a difference with Piccolo than I could before, like donating the range to the British Red Cross to feed baby and toddler refugees.”

“Sustainability has also always been important to Piccolo too, so we’re particularly proud to be the first baby food company in the UK to launch a bio-based pouch, made from 80 per cent plant-derived materials,” she explains. “As a mother, I have a responsibility to my daughter’s future.” And it’s this strong ethical backbone to the company that really set Piccolo apart from the mainstream.

Another area that Cat feels strongly about is the lack of regulation when it comes to sugar content in many well-known baby brands.

“We’re always careful never to add any sugar to our recipes, and wherever possible we reduce the naturally occurring sugars in our pouches too.” We all know that if you give babies sugar they develop a sweet tooth,

so it’s crucial to Cat to give them a diverse mixture of ingredients so they develop a more varied, well-rounded palette.

All of Piccolo’s ingredients are sourced from independent family farms whenever possible, and the organic fruit and vegetables are grown in the sun-soaked Med. As Cat explains, with just a few cherry-picked ingredients in each pouch, it’s important they contain as much flavour as possible. Some tropical herbs and spices may be picked up from further afield.

To date, there are 20 people making up the Piccolo team, working across everything from recipe formulation to packaging design. And integral to that are Cat’s co-founders, Kane O’Flaherty, who heads up the creative side of the business and Alice Fotheringham, the

PROFILE

The brand’s healthy cooking range in lu es fla ourso e pastas and stir-in sauces

Piccolo’s ingredients are largely sourced from independent family farms

“AS A MOTHER, I HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO MY DAUGHTER’S FUTURE.” nutritionist, who has worked on developing the recipes since day one.

Cat lives in Covent Garden in the centre of London, around the corner from the office, juggling the business and motherhood with style. “My daughter Juliet was the inspiration behind Piccolo, as I wanted healthy choices to feed her when we were out. She’s very much a part of the business, so she’s learnt to understand if sometimes I have to travel or can’t be there for pick up. But working so close

to the office has made my life a lot easier.”

“No two days in my job are the same,” Cat explains. “I do everything from meeting retailers to expanding the product range.

But I’m fortunate enough to have a very supportive extended family that help me a lot. And Juliet is lucky enough to have her grandparents in Italy, where she loves to spend time during the school holidays.”

It’s amazing to think that, despite launching just four years ago, Piccolo is now sold in

Piccolo also

offers a broa d range of sn from breads acks, ticks to wafer s

every major supermarket in the UK, with an estimated turnover of £7.5m in 2020. And, despite expecting a new baby imminently, Cat shows now sign of slowing down, with plenty of innovative launches in the pipeline.

Most excitingly the company is bringing a new range of organic formula milks to market, developed alongside experts with 35 years’ experience in infant nutrition. “When my daughter was born, I was surrounded by family who supported me through my decision to breastfeed, but I know it doesn’t always work out that way,” says Cat. “So I want mothers to have the best alternative possible.”

It’s this constant desire to give other parents the very best for their children too, that’s sure to guarantee Piccolo its continued and wellearned success. mylittlepiccolo.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 57

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Makes a lovely gift for every mother and mother-to-be

HEALTH

ALL THINGS MOTHERHOOD with NEEV SPENCER

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e decided to start the year with a trip to Dubai for some much-needed winter sun. The Ritz Carlton is a great place for families, and having had such a fantastic time at its Tenerife outpost for our last break, it was a no-brainer to choose this resort for our first holiday as four, and it didn’t disappoint.

Travelling with a little one can be daunting, so be sure to check out JoJo Maman Bebe’s online Holiday Shop section. It’s an easy-touse shopping list – it’s surprising the things you might not have thought of.

Every tot feeds differently, so it’s important to know your baby and trust your instincts.

Baby-led weaning worked perfectly for Genevieve, who now at three and a half years old eats most things and has a varied diet.

Vivienne had naturally started to show an interest in food, so I consulted Gill Rapley who wrote Baby-led Weaning with Tracey Murkett. Gill advised that now Vivienne can sit up independently, reach out, grasp things and take them into her mouth she was ready for solids. She suggested sharing meals, eating healthily, avoiding highly-processed food, making sure iron is included once a day and cooking without salt or sugar. Offering veg sticks was the starting point. She stressed that it’s more about discovering than eating, and that breast milk or formula are still a baby’s main source of food at this stage. So far so good, and she loves joining in mealtimes!

Catch me next month for more on my motherhood journey, don’t forget to check out the online version of this column and follow me on social media @neevofficial

I’M LOVING...

This month I’m loving the Béaba Babycook Neo. Now that I’m preparing fresh meals for my baby daily this food processor is an absolute dream. Making it easier than ever to blend up yummy fresh ingredients to expand her new palate. Béaba Babycook Neo, £160, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

BRING IT HOME

Great news for mamas-to-be: beauty service Blow LTD has added an at-home pregnancy massage to its treatment menu, ideal for relieving common prenatal symptoms such as water retention, swollen joints and back stress. Book either a 60- or 90-minute session and unwind in the comfort of your own home, as a qualified therapist gets to work. Minimal effort required! From £79, blowltd.com

health & beauty

NEWS

THE L ATEST PRODUCTS AND INNOVATIONS IN THE WORLD OF WELLBEING

Renowned for its fab food pouches, snacks and sauces, Piccolo has now launched its rst range of infant follo on an gro ing up milk, suitable for tots from birth to three years ol a e fro organi high uality ingre ients this nutritious for ula has been sourced from family farms and is a e ith all the goo ness a y nee s to stay strong an healthy in the ro u ts in a o an oots fro e ruary an in Sainsbury’s from early March. £14.99, mylittlepiccolo.com

BREASTFEEDING MUMS SHOULD EAT MORE EGGS TO PREVENT THEIR BABY HAVING AN ALLERGY, RESEARCH HAS FOUND. THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA STUDY SHOWED THAT EGG ALLERGIES IN KIDS ARE FOUR TIMES LESS LIKELY WHEN THEY’VE BEEN EXPOSED TO BREAST MILK CONTAINING EGG PROTEIN.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 59

Rolling green hills, ancient forests, valleys of wild flowers, rugged cliffs and maritime air – this land is called home.

BRITAIN IN A BOTTLE Find us in Liberty, Harrods and Fortnum & Mason nobleisle.com

RUNNING HEAD

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

How will stress affect my unborn baby?

P

regnancy is one of the most challenging experiences is a woman’s life, and some stress is inevitable. If it’s prolonged, it can affect both you and your baby, so it’s important that you understand what causes it and how to cope with it.

inducing chemicals from your blood stream – but if you’re unduly stressed, she may be getting high levels of stress chemicals, so learning to control stress early in your pregnancy will not only help you get through the nine months with ease, but will give you vital tools for the years of parenting to come.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/ANTONIOGUILLEM

HOW THE BRAIN REACTS TO STRESS Depending in the stress or stressors, the HOW YOUR BODY RESPONDS pituitary gland in the brain and the adrenal In a stressful situation, the brain sends a signal glands, which sit at the top of the kidneys, to the adrenals to produce adrenalin and determine the amount of the stress hormone cortisol. These compounds increase your cortisol to release. blood pressure, heart rate and breathing, and Research has shown that having high levels raise your blood sugar levels, preparing your of cortisol in an expectant mother’s body over body for a ‘fight or flight’ predicament. This a long period of time is detrimental to the reaction is perfectly normal when it happens developing baby and it can cross the placenta. occasionally, but if you become stuck in a Unborn babies who are repeatedly exposed more continuous stress response, the reaction to high levels of stress chemicals have their can become chronic. The constant presence own stress response system distorted, so that of cortisol in your body also uses up B it becomes unable to regulate itself. vitamins, so you can easily Therefore, the baby, child and later become depleted of these ed Recommend the adult will overreact to stress, vital nutrients. product and her response to quite minor stressors may be overwhelming EFFECTS OF STRESS fear, anxiety or rage.

ON YOUR BABY From as early as the seventh Your developing unborn Guided Relaxation Download for During Pregnancy week of pregnancy, your baby baby is particularly £9.95, zitawest.com may be receiving pleasuresusceptible to stress

chemicals and hormones from the mother in the third trimester when her brain is developing rapidly. A certain level of cortisol is good for the baby, with levels naturally rising towards the end of pregnancy to help her organs, such as the lungs, to mature. However, if the levels are continually high, your baby will be in an anxious state, her own levels of the stress hormone will rise and it may not only influence her response to stress, but also affect her cognitive function.

MANAGE YOUR MIND Identify the major stresses in your life: • Which area of your life do you most need to change?

• Think about who can help and support you.

• How can you change your reaction to a problem?

• Implement changes: 20 minutes a day of sitting quietly, visualising or meditating will help and if you practise it regularly it will give you a greater sense of control.

• Improve your breathing.

• Try some gently exercise.

• Protect yourself, where possible, from stressful situations (and people who make you feel anxious).

• Nourish and nurture yourself.

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

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Meet the new members of our team, making bath-time fun and clean

SAVE 20% On Pureana Voucher code: PURE20 www.anawiz.com 0800 1114800

Dermatologically Tested

BREASTFEEDING

The Breastfeeding Café with

PROFESSOR AMY BROWN

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

WHAT IS THE BEST BREASTFEEDING POSITION?

T

he best breastfeeding position is the one that you find most comfortable – and there are lots to choose from. Here are some of the most common ones: CRADLE HOLD – this is the traditional breastfeeding pose you usually see in pictures, but isn’t necessarily the easiest or more comfortable for you. You hold your baby across your body, with her latched on one side and her feet on the other. Her head will rest on your forearm, with her whole body and tummy against you.

RUGBY HOLD – this is when you position your baby along the side of your body so her feet are behind you, and her head round at your breast. It’s useful for feeding twins at the same time, or if you’ve had a caesarean section. It’s important to make sure that your baby is far back enough, and that she still has her head tilted back, rather than her chin crunched into her chest.

LYING DOWN – this can be great to let you get some rest, or if you’re in pain sitting up. It is also useful if your milk flow is very fast, as your baby can let a little trickle out.

LAIDBACK BREASTFEEDING – where you lie in a reclined position

and let your baby come to you. First of all you need to make yourself comfy, reclined in a bed supported by pillows or in a semi-reclined position in a chair – aim for your sacrum (the hard part at the back of your pelvis) to be the part supporting your lower weight. Then place your baby on her tummy so her head is near your breasts. Make sure the rest of her is on you as well, rather than dangling off the edge.

She’ll use her little feet and legs to wiggle her way up. You might want to bring your knees up a little if you’re lying on a bed to feel like she is more supported.

You don’t need to hang on to her, but make sure she’s secure and not going to drop off.

Make sure she’s facing your nipple rather than needing to turn her head, although it’s likely she’ll be able to do this to latch on. Let her use her hands and feet to push herself closer to your nipple. She’ll know which direction to go by smell and will automatically open her mouth wide as she comes up to your nipple.

Professor Amy Brown’s title The Positive Breastfeeding Book (£14.99, Pinter & Martin Ltd) is out now Nursing pillow £39, mamasandpapas.com

Cam Cam Copenhagen nursing pillow £69, smallable.com BabyMoov Mum & B Maternity Cushion £35, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Nursing pillow £49.90, ergobaby.co.uk

Widgey feeding pillow £29.99, boots.com

TOP TIPS

• Being comfortable is really important! Make sure you aren’t hunched up over your baby – bring them to you rather than sitting in an awkward position. You can use pillows for comfort.

• A good latch will feel comfortable to you. If you’re in pain during a feed, or your nipples are misshapen after a feed, there’s a good chance that something isn’t quite right – speak to your health visitor or a breastfeeding specialist.

• Looking at visuals can really help you work out what goes where. La Leche League shares great advice and pics on the different latches at laleche.org.uk. There are also some great videos on the Biological Nurturing website, at biologicalnurturing.com.

• If you’ve had a caesarean and want to try laidback nursing, but are worried about your baby kicking your wound, there are a few different approaches that you can try – including from the other direction so her feet are nowhere near you!

This might need some help to start with, but nipples work the same way from any direction, and your baby can approach it from the side, or even from over your shoulder. This means her feet will be nowhere near your tummy.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 63

HEALTH

TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

GROUP B STREP

The sisters advise on testing for the potentially harmful bacteria while pregnant t often comes as a surprise to expectant mums that the most common cause of severe newborn infections is Group B Strep (GBS), something that many have never heard of. We believe that being informed is one of the most powerful ways to protect your child.

I

WHAT IS GBS?

CAN YOU TEST FOR IT? You can, but it’s not routinely tested for on the NHS, which instead treats women and babies who show symptoms with antibiotics. There’s now pressure for the NHS to change its policy, to be in line with countries such as Germany, France and Spain, which all routinely test for GBS in the weeks before labour, and treat accordingly.

HOW CAN I TEST FOR IT? Just because the NHS doesn’t cover it, that doesn’t mean it’s unavailable. The ECM test is a straightforward rectal and vaginal swab you can do at home and send to a lab to be analysed, costing around £35. The lab grows the bacteria, then give you the results in a few days.

Find out more at gbss.org.uk.

64 | baby-magazine.co.uk

AND IF I’M GBS POSITIVE? You’ll need to share the results with the team looking after you. Not a huge amount changes in your pregnancy, but once you go into labour, you’ll be given antibiotics to protect your baby.

This doesn’t prevent you from having a natural birth, but since antibiotics are given intravenously, you’ll need to be in hospital. If you’re planning a birthcentre delivery, talk to them about whether you can have antibiotics there, as this is often possible.

WHY DOESN’T EVERYONE GET TESTED? This is a contentious issue and the root of it probably lies in funding.

Although the test would probably only cost the NHS £11 per person, across a population, this adds up. However, the rate of GBS is rising and there’s pressure

on the NHS to adopt a national policy of testing. Until that happens, the best thing you can do is be informed, which is why we need to talk about this. Many women on The Bump Class choose to test themselves and are grateful that they know about it.

You can hear Marina and Dr Chiara in conversation about Group B Strep on The Parent Hood Podcast, which is available to download for free on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts.

ARE THERE ANY DOWNSIDES? The two biggest downsides are probably the cost and that the test isn’t the most dignified thing to do. But it’s really not bad – certainly no worse than putting in a tampon. Some women have opted not to do it because if they’re found positive, they’d be urged to give birth in a hospital rather than at home or a birth centre. This is short sighted though, as if you’re GBS positive, IV antibiotics during the birth is potentially lifesaving for your baby, which should be the priority.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

It’s common for women to be carrying GBS, along with a host of other bacteria, both good and bad, in their vagina and mostly, it causes no problems; in fact 10-30 per cent of pregnant women carry GBS without any symptoms.

It becomes a concern if you’re carrying at the time of delivery because there’s a 50 per cent chance of transferring it to your baby. Of the babies that catch it, one to two per cent will develop a life-threatening infection like meningitis, septicaemia or pneumonia.

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW Laura Mason LINES UP THE BEST BOT TLES FOR BABY Best for STYLE

Best for

PREMATURE BABIES

Best for

TECHNIQUE

Best for BREAST MILK

Best for

ANTI-COLIC

DR. BROWN’S

NANOBÉBÉ

TOMMEE TIPPEE

VITAL BABY® NURTURE™

LANSINOH

To support a weaker sucking reflex, this smaller bottle features a special teat that reduces flow by nearly half that of a standard teat. Instead of a vacuum, the bottle features a special vent that pushes air away from baby, so that she can stay in control of the milk flow without increasing the risk of colic. £6.49, boots.com

This newcomer has been designed to preserve the essential nutrients from breast milk, and includes a pump adaptor to help breast-to-mouth feeding.

With an increased surface area, it cleverly funnels the milk into a thinner layer, so that it cools and warms up to three times quicker than standard bottles. £17.99 (pack of two), johnlewis.com

Want to stand out from the crowd? Tommee Tippee has two sets that’ll definitely set you apart. Morning Sky is a trio of gold, bronze and dusky pink bottles, while the Midnight Sky set is a purple, black and silver. The bottle design is a case of style meeting substance. £12.99 (pack of three), johnlewis.com

Ingesting air during bottlefeeding is strongly linked to colic. To eliminate the risk, a triple anti-colic valve draws away any air that may have entered the bottle during preparation, or as baby feeds. The flat teat also promotes a good latch, further reducing air intake, and replicates the stretch and flex of a breast. £8.99 (pack of two), vitalbaby.com

This bottle encourages baby to adopt a wave-like tongue movement while feeding, which aids natural oral development. The teat lets baby control milk flow, while its textured base provides a great latch. It’s also good for the planet, being 100 per cent recyclable. £10.99, amazon.co.uk

Natural Flow Feeding Preemie Bottle

Breast Milk Bottle

Closer to Nature AntiColic Bottle

Breast Like Feeding Bottle

Glass Baby Bottle with NaturalWave® Slow Flow Teat

baby-magazine.co.uk | 65

PARENTING

Make a

SPLASH

Sarah Dawson OUTLINES EVERY THING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO ACE THAT FIRST POOL TRIP WITH YOUR NEWBORN our first time in the pool with your baby is a moment you’ll never forget.

There’s something magical about a baby in water – born with the natural reflex to move their arms and legs when supported in the water, as well as hold their breath and open their eyes underwater, babies really are natural swimmers.

There are no rules as to when you can take your baby swimming for the first time – the NHS advises you don’t need to wait until after their immunisations – so it’s up to you when you feel ready to take the plunge. Get baby used to the water at bathtime, with plenty of splashing. It can be handy to play with bath toys and sing songs while they bathe, then use these as reassuring prompts when you’re in the pool for the first time.

Just make sure the pool water is warm enough – 30°C for a baby older than 12 weeks or heavier than 12lb, and 32°C if they’re younger or smaller.

The first year of life is crucial to your baby’s development, and swimming has an impressive number of benefits. Ali Beckman, technical director and head teacher at Puddle Ducks, explains, “Swimming is a truly amazing activity, facilitating development of higher brain functions, core muscles and coordination.

In fact, swimming gives your baby the opportunity to develop all of these skills earlier than their non-swimming peers.”

Studies have shown that, on the whole, babies who swim have much better balance out of the pool than those who don’t. Swimming is the only opportunity babies have to move freely, plus all that grasping for the colourful swimming toys is great for their early motorskills development.

It’s not just the physical benefits that get

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the thumbs up. Swimming is so important for a baby’s emotional development, too.

“It’s the only time your baby can feel truly independent,” says Ali. Signing up to baby swimming lessons gives your little one’s brain a workout, as they learn to respond to certain key words and thrive on the repetition. Not to mention meeting their fellow bathers “Classes are a fun and socially stimulating activity for both parents and babies,” Ali explains.

As well as all of this, swimming classes are a great way to bond with your baby through all that skin-to-skin and eye contact. “The bonding experience is second-to-none,” says Ali. “It’s a time for you and your baby to relax together, plus it helps your baby build confidence in the water, and you, too, if you

time in the pool can affect their super-soft, delicate skin. “Chemicals used to disinfect swimming pools are known to dry out skin,” explains Dr Stefanie Williams, Dermatologist and Aveeno Baby expert, “but if you take the correct precautions before and after time in the water, baby skin can be protected. Wet skin is less absorbent that dry skin, so by rinsing your baby in non-chlorinated water (or at least less chlorinated) before getting into the pool, you can reduce the amount of pool water absorbed by your baby’s skin. I’d also recommend washing away the chlorine straight after you’ve taken your baby swimming, using a moisturising wash like the Aveeno Baby Dermexa Wash.”

If your little one has eczema, it pays to be extra careful when taking them swimming, as the pool water can irritate baby’s skin further. “In this case, I’d recommend applying a lipidrich barrier cream all over your baby, such as Aveeno Baby Dermexa Emollient Balm, before they get in the water,” suggests Dr Williams. “It’s also worth speaking to the leisure centre to find out what time they add more chlorine to their pool, so you can avoid swimming directly after this, and ask what the temperature of the pool is too. The warmer the water the more likely skin will dry out – especially eczema-prone baby skin. Finally, be mindful of how long your baby is spending in the water – a newborn should start with just 10 minutes in the pool, building up to 20, then 30 minutes max, until they’re over a year old.”

It goes without saying that any outing with a small baby can be a little daunting – throw in the prospect of wrangling them out of wet costumes and swim nappies, while desperately trying to keep your towel firmly wrapped

66 | baby-magazine.co.uk

lack water-confidence.” It’s a fun way to give your baby some undivided attention, plus it’s great for your fitness (not to mention providing a bit of structure and sanity to those hazy newborn weeks), is something both parents can get involved with and can even help improve baby’s eating and sleeping patterns – music to our sleep-deprived ears!

Classes are the perfect way to start a habit that will hopefully last a lifetime. “Encouraging a baby to take regular exercise, such as swimming, will make it easier to establish a healthy lifestyle in the future,” Ali explains, plus, what could be more important than teaching them a potentially life-saving skill?

One thing to keep in mind when introducing your baby to swimming, is how spending

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/EVGENYATAMANENKO

INSTILLING A LOVE OF WATER AT AN EARLY AGE IS SOMETHING YOU’LL NEVER REGRET

PARENTING

POOL YOUR RESOURCES

Ready to start swimming with baby?

Here are the water-ready essentials ...

Surf suit £26, muddypuddles.com

3 in 1 Swim £3, childsfarm.com

Babies who swim have better balance on land than little ones who haven’t taken the plunge

Cotton hooded towel £22.95, snuz.com Happy Nappy £10.99, splashabout.com

Pop-in Change & Go mat £19.99, closeparent.com

around you, and it’s understandable that a lot of first-time parents can be nervous about the first trip to the pool. As a mum who’s been there, done that (and dropped the towel far too many times than I’d like to remember), it pays to be prepared. The first rule of baby swimming? Double up! Always dress them in a swim nappy, with a Happy Nappy (a pullon, neoprene nappy with snug fabric bands around the thighs and tummy) on top, to keep any accidents out of the pool. A lot of public swimming pools and classes insist on this. Have a soft, hooded towel on the sidelines to wrap your baby up as soon as you leave the water, then make sure you have a clean nappy and change of clothes laid out ready to get them

dressed as quickly as you can. This is not the time to be frantically scrabbling around inside the change bag searching for that ever-elusive matching baby sock!

Another thing to bear in mind is that swimming works up a serious appetite, so try to find a quiet spot to give them a quick feed Aveeno Baby moisturising wash or bottle before heading home. And if they £9.99, boots.com cry? Don’t stress. All the other parents are in exactly the same boat as you, so just relax and Organic Babies by Green People know that no one is judging. body wash and shampoo Whether you opt for some solo swimming Trainer seat (three to 12 months) £8.50, greenpeople.com £20, zoggs.com with your baby or decide to sign up to classes, instilling a love of water at an early age is something you’ll never regret. Time to dig out the swimming costume...

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FOOD

VEGAN EXPRESS

Fully organic and delivered straight to your door, Bellota Baby is a weaning brand you’ll want on your radar. Its plant-based purées and toddler bites are packed with vitamins and minerals and are free from meat, fish, dairy, gluten, added salt and preservatives.

Let baby dig into moreish butternut squash & coconut, while older tots snack on gooey brownie bites – made from sweet potatoes, dates and almonds. bellotababy.com

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FOOD BIBLE

If your 2020 resolution was to cut down on dairy, meat or fish, it’s worth flicking through Rachel Boyett’s brill guide, Little Veggie Eats. Out on 12 March, the book is packed with recipes, from brunch suggestions and snacks to baby buddha bowls and family meals – not to mention heaps of dessert ideas. We’ll be giving the rainbow pancakes a go here at Baby HQ… £14.99, Vermillion

NEWS

THE L ATEST AND GRE ATEST TRE ATS FOR BABIES, CHILDREN AND PARENTS

PURE AND SIMPLE

No, not a Hear’Say comeback, but a new range from yoghurt brand Danone, which uses a modest mix of milk, live cultures and a fruit layer in its latest line of sweet snacks. Free from artificial sweeteners and added sugar, flavours in the organic Simply Fruit and Veg range span from appetising strawberry and banana, to adventurous mango and carrot, all potted in recyclable packaging. From £1, danone.com

Having chomped our way through the Organix range, we’re thrilled to hear that the brand has added another baked snack to its growing collection. Made with corn, rice, pea, tomato and sweetcorn, Melty eggie ti s are the i eal nger foo for eaning tots, whether kept as a cupboard stash, or stored in your hanging ag for on the go ni les he est it hey re gluten free an ontain no a e salt arti ial olours or fla ours esult organix.com

IDEAL FOR TOTS FROM SEVEN MONTHS, THE UK’S FIRST BABY-LED WEANING BRAND TO OFFER ORGANIC FINGER FOOD HAS JUST LAUNCHED. LITTLE SENSES WHOLE FOODS DELIVERS MEALS DIRECTLY TO YOUR DOOR AND USES NUTRITIOUS INGREDIENTS, INCLUDING KALE, SPINACH, CHIA SEEDS AND FLAX SEEDS. LITTLESENSESWHOLEFOODS.COM

baby-magazine.co.uk | 69

RUNNING HEAD

Spring fresh PICCOLO’S INFANT NUTRITIONIST Alice Fotheringham BIRNGS HER FAVOURITE SE ASONAL FARE TO THE TABLE

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RUNNING HEAD

CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP This nutritious, immunesystem-boosting soup is ideal as a lunch for chillier spring days

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Serves: 4 portions Suitable from 8 months Suitable for freezing

Chicken thigh is more nutrient-dense than chicken breast, so it’s good to use in this delicious baby noodle soup.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tsp olive oil • ½ small onion, peeled and finely chopped • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped • 1 celery stalk, chopped • 150ml water • 1 cube Piccolo chicken stock • 1 skinless chicken thigh or breast, chopped • 50g fine noodles or Piccolo baby pasta • 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme, chopped METHOD

Heat the oil in a large lidded saucepan. Once hot, add the onions and cook for a few minutes before adding the garlic. Cook for 5 more minutes until the onions go translucent.

Add the carrots and celery to the onion mix and continue to cook for a few minutes.

Add the chicken pieces and brown on all sides for a few minutes while you prepare the stock. Bring the water to boil and in a jug mix the stock cube in the water until it has dissolved with no lumps left.

Add the stock to the vegetables and chicken, along with thyme and stir. Bring to the boil and reduce the heat to medium-low.

Add the noodles or pasta and simmer until chicken and pasta are cooked through and tender, which should take around 15 minutes.

If needed, transfer the soup to a food processor or blender and purée until smooth.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 71

RUNNING HEAD

This early-pregnancy recipe is rich in protein and will quell your craving for comfort food

P E A R S , S W E E T P O TAT O , C A R R O T S & P O M E G R A N AT E Preparation time: 20 minutes Suitable for children of one year and above

This recipe is not only delicious and healthy, but because it’s crammed full of interesting ingredients like sweet potato, pomegranate and acerola cherries, it’s a great way to introduce bigger kids to more complex flavours that pack a nutritional punch too.

INGREDIENTS

• 20g quinoa • 1 medium ripe pear, peeled, cored and chopped • 1 sweet potato • 1 carrot • 30ml pomegranate juice • 10g oats METHOD

QUICK CR E AMY BROCCOLI AN D ALMON D SOUP W I T H PA R M E S A N T OA S T Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves: 2 portions Not suitable for freezing Best for first trimester of pregnancy Vegetarian

Chances are you’ll be feeling tired and nauseous in your first trimester and only simple comforting foods are what you can stomach. Piccolo’s founder Cat and I survived on a lot of easy pasta dishes and baked potatoes in our first trimesters, but tried to include lots of greenery and good proteins where possible with smoothies, homemade pesto, nuts and seeds. These are just a few ways you can get in extra nutrients during this stage of pregnancy This soup takes minutes to make and is rich in folate and vitamin C. The almonds and peas are a good protein source, too.

MAKE THIS BABY FRIENDLY: This also makes a

delicious vegetable purée for babies. Simply hold off adding any salt and pepper seasoning to ensure that it’s suitable from 6 months.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 head broccoli, chopped up into small pieces, including the stalk • 100g frozen peas • 60g almonds • 150ml boiling water • 1 garlic clove • 1 Piccolo vegetable or chicken stock cube • Splash of milk or plant milk • Salt and pepper to taste • 2 slice of wholemeal bread • 60g parmesan, grated

Rinse the quinoa in cold water, then add it to a pan of cold water along with the carrot and sweet potato, and cook gently for 15-20 minutes until the grains are cooked and the vegetables are soft.

In a blender mix the pear, cooked quinoa, carrot and sweet potato with the oats and pomegranate juice. Add more water or juice to taste and achieve the required consistency.

METHOD

In a pan, boil the broccoli, peas, almonds, garlic and stock in the water for 6-8 minutes until the broccoli is soft. Remove from the heat and ladle out half of the liquid and set aside.

Blend the ingredients together, adding more liquid if needed for the desired consistency.

Add milk and salt and pepper to taste.

Turn the grill on to medium, toast the bread on one side for a minute, then sprinkle the parmesan over the uncooked side and grill for 2 minutes until melted. Serve with the soup.

Alice Fotheringham is a co-founder and infant nutritional therapist at Piccolo. Piccolo makes a range of organic baby meals, snacks and ingredients to fuel your family for a lifetime of adventures. Piccolo is committed to adding no sugar, salt or palm oil. 10 per cent of Piccolo’s profits go to charity. Visit mylittlepiccolo.com or follow on Instagram @mylittlepiccolo

72 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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contact@kerikit.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 73

Because they deserve it ...

Offer your little ones a world of illusion and spend some unforgettable family holidays.

HOVIMA La Pinta Beachfront Family Hotel puts at your disposal the most outstanding programs and entertainment facilities, guaranteeing you spectacular views of the ocean.

Curious?

Visit our webpage www.hovimalapinta.com/en/

HOVIMALAPINTA.COM Costa Adeje - Tenerife South

TRAVEL

travel

THIS MONTH W E VI S IT…

Chewton Glen

NATALIE KEELER ventures to Hampshire for a taste of rural luxury

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efore seeing it for myself, I’ll admit I was a little sceptical about Chewton Glen. It had been sold to me by friends and social media as the hotel that ‘has it all’ – outdoor hot tubs, amazing food, lush green countryside, stylish seaside towns, a fantastic beach nearby... the list went on and on. Surely the world was overstating it just a little?

Reader, how thrilled I was to be proved wrong.

Located on the border of the New Forest, encased by 130 acres of verdant scenery, this fivestar hideaway genuinely lives up to its dazzling reputation, and as a popular choice for families, couples, and those – like me – there to sample the babymoon offering – it continues to deliver again and again.

With the weather forecast predicting glorious sunshine, our weekend was off to a strong start as we checked into one of the croquet lawn rooms; kitted out with plush sofas, a dressing area, marble bathroom and – much to my partner’s delight – spectacular views of the golf course.

A light lunch in the café hit the spot after a morning spent in spa and hydrotherapy pool, where there’s also a menu of pregnancy treatments for mums-to-be, from facials to massages. Venturing out of the main house, we were also lucky enough to catch a short tour of the magnificent treehouse suites, situated high in the forest canopy and just a short walk through the gardens.

Our evening meal in The Dining Room was equally sublime – the standout dish being the cheese soufflé starter, which has been on the menu for around 30 years because guests love it that much. If you’re craving something sweet to finish, try the divine homemade ice cream, too.

Worn out from a day of doing not very much at all, we kicked back in our king-sized bed, savouring the smug feeling of total bliss that Chewton Glen had gifted us. Yes, we thought; we could definitely get used to this.

NEWS

WHEREVER YOUR DESTINATION, TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW

ADVENTURE AWAITS

Launching this summer, Greek travel collection MarBella will be opening a thrilling new activity programme in partnership with London’s Exploration Society. The club, which will be available at MarBella Corfu and MarBella Elix (opening June 2020), is themed around the epic tales of Greek gods and goddesses, with youngsters trying everything from treasure huntsto orienteering, with trips to water parks and hidden island caves. marbellacollection.gr

FLYING WITH TOTS FROM DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT JUST GOT EASIER, AS TERMINAL 3’S NEW PLAZA PREMIUM LOUNGE HAS OPENED ITS DOORS. EXPECT IMPRESSIVE PRIVATE FAMILY SUITES, BUTLER SERVICE AND A PLAYROOM PACKED WITH SUSTAINABLE TOYS. PLAZAPREMIUMLOUNGE.COM

SUITE FRANÇAISE

If you’re after short-haul sun with a home-from-home feel, Country Kids in Languedoc-Roussillon ticks every box. This relaxed French resort has great weather, delicious food and warm hospitality in abundance, not to mention dazzling pools, cosy rooms and top childcare facilities. This summer will see the addition of a farm with ample space for tots to play, new walking trails and a supper club, offering authentic dishes. country-kids.fr

Rooms from £325 per night, chewtonglen.com Dive into laidback family-friendly luxury at Country Kids

baby-magazine.co.uk | 75

RUNNING HEAD

The family went car-free for the whole holiday

POSTCARD FROM

BEDFORDSHIRE CENTER PARCS IN WOBURN FOREST WAS JUST THE SPOT FOR EDITOR Rebecca Moore’s FAMILY GETAWAY

he first time I’d visited a Center Parcs I was part of a group of 20-somethings on a birthday weekend away. Laughs were had, bikes were fallen off, and the lazy river completed; but when I returned some years later, it had different boxes to tick.

Conjuring up a family weekend away – my three-month-old niece’s first getaway – we had three non-negotiables: easy to reach, baby and child friendly, and somewhere we wouldn’t need a car. I pitched the idea of Center Parcs; which fulfilled the credentials and then some.

Taking a 45-minute train from London St Pancras, the seven of us – ranging from 12 weeks old to 60 years young – were Woburn Forest-bound, alighting at Flitwick Station. As a car-free break was the aim, we hopped on Center Parcs’ handy shuttle bus service for the last leg.

Continuing our green mission, the first stop was collecting our two-wheel companions. For little legs, you can get bikes with stabilisers, a child seat, a trailer or a tagalong. The resort is designed with cyclists in mind: while the terrain is largely flat, there are more challenging slopes for those with energy to burn!

We found ourselves extolling the joys of two-wheeled life for most of the stay.

Families won’t be short of options when it comes to filling their days either.

The activities on offer are second to none; from Aerial Adventures to snuggly sensory play, little ones are spoilt for

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Becca snuggled baby Poppy on the sidelines

76 | baby-magazine.co.uk

choice. While fearless monkeys Sam and Sophie swung from tree to tree, I seized the opportunity to enjoy cuddles with Poppy from the sidelines, lulling her into a sweet slumber in her BabyBjörn carrier.

But the biggest spills and thrills took place in Tropical Paradise, which is at the heart of every Center Parcs resort. The crème de la crème of pools, heated to 29.5˚C all year round and decked out with lush jungle greenery, it transports you to a far-flung idyll. We took a swim float for Poppy to bob around on and within minutes she fell asleep, much to everyone’s amusement. Taking turns as buoyant babysitter, we all had the chance to get our kicks on the wild-water rapids.

But with all this adventuring, I was pining for something a bit more subdued as was, unsurprisingly, my mum-of-three sister, Vicky. We made a beeline for the Aqua Sana Spa. It was the first time Vicky had been away from Poppy, and it was lovely to spend some quality time together. While we didn’t make use of the service, the new crèche & spa session allows parents a perfect pampering opportunity. A three-hour session saw us floating back to our lodge.

I think it’s safe to say Center Parcs delivered on the family front. Even if Poppy doesn’t remember her first holiday, the rest of us certainly will!

For current availability and prices, visit centerparcs.co.uk

The seven-strong family group shared a spacious modern lodge

The activities on offer are endless, from bowling to roller disco

Greenwood Grange, recently awarded Self Catering Accommodation of the year at the 2019 Dorset Tourism Awards and Bronze in the South West Tourism Awards with a collection of 17 luxury stone-built self-catering holiday cottages deep into Hardy Country near Dorchester in Dorset. There’s so much to offer, so whether its relaxing in your own private cottage, some with hot tubs, taking a dip in the indoor pool, indulging in the sauna or playing a game of tennis, we’ve got it all. Our Games room has exciting school holiday children’s activities. You can even pick your own fruit or vegetables from our kitchen garden. Explore the nearby Thorncombe Woods for great walks and off-road biking trails.

There’s even an onsite shop with essentials…including wine!

Call our Friendly Reception Team on 01305 268874 or booking online www.greenwoodgrange.co.uk Greenwood Grange, Higher Bockhampton, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8QH

The Park Cornwall is what children’s dreams are made of!

Cornwall’s award winning holiday park, just a stone’s throw away from Mawgan Porth beach, complete with numerous play areas, an indoor and outdoor pool, holiday fun activities, resident chickens and not forgetting our friendly goats who love rich tea biscuits.

Our Restaurant – The Kitchen by The Beach just the place for yummy locally sourced food. There’s a soft play area for the little ones to explore whilst the adults enjoy a chill out!

01637 860322 • www.theparkcornwall.com • The Park, Mawgan Porth, TR8 4BD baby-magazine.co.uk | 77

RUNNING HEAD

Happy campers Mar tha Alexander EXPL AINS WHY IT PAYS TO BE PREPARED BEFORE VENTURING UNDER CANVAS EN FAMILLE

et’s go camping” they said! “It’ll be fun” they said.

And suddenly it’s 9.30pm in a waterlogged field in the boondocks, and you’re ‘sheltered’ by a tent which is, you realise, too small for three people, even if one of them is a toddler. Rain is driven sideways by a hostile wind and the night looks set to be a long one, thanks to everyone being high on marshmallows. Your will to live is dying, much like embers of the pathetic fire you lit earlier – oh and the matches are all soggy too.

This might be my first experience of camping with a toddler but this isn’t how it needs to be. And no, you don’t need to be Bear Grylls to get it right. But where to start?

First off: don’t overwhelm yourself. If you’re not a typical outdoorsy type, it’s unwise to dive into a two-week survival expedition in the Cairngorms with nothing but your small family, a tent and a compass for company. Start small and head to a camp site for a weekend – one

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78 | baby-magazine.co.uk

that has shower blocks and maybe even a little shop. Or you could go glamping – where a tent or yurt will have already been erected for you and cosy bedding provided. As your confidence grows you can seek adventures with fewer home comforts.

Assuming you aren’t going glamping, you’ll need a tent. “Whether you’re taking an old tent or have bought a new one, I highly recommend testing your tent before taking it on your first family outing,” says David Scotland, camping expert and owner of familyrun camping retailer Outdoor World Direct.

“It’s wise to have a trial run camping overnight in your garden, but if this isn’t possible, then at

least erect the tent to make sure you have all the correct components, there are no rips and tears and that you have adequate space. This will help you determine if you need any new equipment and adjustments. Although a brand new tent is unlikely to be faulty, it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

We recommend one of those pop-up tents – like the Core 4 Person Instant Dome Tent which does all the hard work for you (although packing any tent up is always a different story, let’s be honest).

It’s worth remembering that babies and toddlers might be best sleeping in a travel cot.

“Camping beds and sleep systems are

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/BNMK0819, CHIYACAT

“

TRAVEL

WHEN CONSIDERING A FAMILY CAMPING TRIP, IT PAYS TO KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON THE FORECAST not designed for babies and toddlers,” says Scotland. “This takes up valuable tent space, so be sure to test that there’s enough room in the tent for the cot and any other sleep systems you intend to take to ensure a comfortable stay.”

You’ll also need sleeping bags, plenty of layers and good outdoor boots. Extra socks are essential. I recommend placing different items of clothing in separate plastic or waterproof bags to prevent mass soaking.

Nothing says ‘I want to go home’ more than a rucksack full of sodden clothing.

Ensure you have a fully charged mobile phone and ideally one of those battery packs that can keep your phone ticking over without a mains socket.

A little camping stove won’t break the bank and is essential for hot drinks and heating up baked beans and milk bottles!

Unless you’re going to a wilderness, it’s unlikely that you won’t be able to pick up food, nappies or toiletries on your trip, but it’s always prudent to have emergency supplies.

What is completely essential is a first-aid kit.

This should have all the usual accoutrements including plasters, antiseptic wipes, bandages and antihistamine cream, but you should also ensure that you have Calpol and sun cream.

As a Brit, I spend my life checking the

weather in an obsessive fashion despite not being able to change it – but when considering a family camping trip, it pays to keep a close eye on the forecast.

“If any weather warnings are issued then cancel or rearrange the trip,” advises Scotland.

“Be aware that, even if the temperatures don’t look too low, it always feels colder than you remember at night when camping! Be sure to pack extra clothes and blankets for your little one. If it’s the height of summer, you may want to consider a tarp, which will help to keep the light off your tent – remember the sun rises very early and sets late! This can help with sticking to a bedtime routine too, and it’ll also provide shade outside your tent. A lot of the newer tents have darkened bedrooms or blackout bedrooms, which are perfect for keeping children asleep through the night.”

This might seem a little puritanical, but banning tablets and smartphones (or keeping them hidden in case of emergencies) is worth considering. Camping should be about the great outdoors – unplugging, disconnecting and allowing nature to inspire and excite.

And of course, the most important part of camping is having fun – tapping into your children’s imaginations and instilling a sense of adventure that will make memories you’ll all cherish forever. Time to get packing!

The famous five Intrepid family travellers, listen up!

Here are the five best UK spots to go camping with infants in tow

Wardley Hill

WARDLEY HILL This Norfolk spot is ideal for beginners, with hot showers, compost loos and a shop nearby. There are bell tents, shepherd’s huts and yurts for those too posh to pitch. wardleyhillcampsite.com

BERYL’S With both beaches and rolling hills, Devon’s Beryl’s is a family-run bucolic dreamland, with a 30-year history. This is somewhere you can let young imaginations run wild. berylscampsite.co.uk

The Real Campsite

THE REAL CAMPSITE Camping doesn’t have to be about roughing it – there’s also the option of a pre-pitched yurt

Set on a 280-acre working farm – complete with chicken coop – this family-friendly Oxfordshire campsite offers some lowkey luxury (each pitch has a private loo!). therealcampsite.co.uk

CLEADALE The rugged views from Cleadale on Isle of Eigg is otherworldly – this is as close to going wild as one can get on a campsite.

Organic eggs and veg available on site. eiggorganics.co.uk

RUKINS-KELD In the heart of the wonderful Yorkshire Dales, this campsite at Keld boasts peace and quiet (there’s no mobile phone signal) and a river for leisurely paddling. rukins-keld.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 79

Did you know that worldwide more than 100 billion food pouches ended up in landfill last year?  DoddleBags have no nasties, and because you can wash them and re-use them, you'll help save our planet too!

Store & freeze breast milk in DoddleBags 100ml calibrated pouches Fill with home pureed foods and add a doddle spoon for easy weaning Snacks on the go for all ages DoddleNozzles & brushes encourage healthy habits in little kitchen helpers Skin care on the go Sports gels and work snacks Hand luggage friendly lotions and potions THE POSSIBILITIES ARE LIMITLESS

UPDATES

ON BOARD

Let us list the reasons we love Muro’s modular busy board… it’s designed with eco materials, such as sustainable birch plywood; it encourages key skills, from counting to colour matching; and it’s in-tune with baby’s development, allowing parents to swap toys as she grows. New for 2020, there’s five add-on kits, including letter packs to introduce her to the alphabet, and counters for early maths practice. From £12, mymuro.com

nursery

NEWS

HERE YOU’LL FIND THE L ATEST E ARLY YE ARS UPDATES

PICK UP THE PIECES

Bring big ideas into bedtime reading with Baby Robot Explains… Rocket Science, a fab new board book that’s perfect for budding physicists. Written with the help of science consultant Lisa Burke, it follows a young robot’s dream of flying to the oon ith a using illustrations and accessible science e lanations o in nity an eyon Published 26 March. £5.99, DK

Launching this April, My First Story Puzzle is a wonderful new early learning series that encourages toddlers to build simple stories by completing three-piece jigsaws.

Created by Japanese illustrator Kanae Sato, the game sees little ones learn about how flowers grow, as well as how a caterpillar forms into a chrysalis, before transforming into a beautiful butterfly. £9.99, laurenceking.com

TAKE THE LEAD

What could your toddler teach you about being a boss? Emma Turner’s new read Be More Toddler answers this with a fascinating dive into what we can learn from our little ones about navigating the workplace. Filled with hilarious anecdotes, it outlines how to instil confidence, set boundaries, and develop your leadership presence. £12, John Catt Educational

THE DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION HAS ANNOUNCED THAT IT WILL BE EXTENDING ITS NATIONAL SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAMME THIS YEAR WITH FUNDING OF UP TO £11.8M. AT LEAST 650 MORE SCHOOLS WILL BENEFIT FROM THE SCHEME, WHICH HELPS TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO BREAKFAST PROVISION IN SCHOOLS IN DISADVANTAGED AREAS.

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BUSINESS Inspired by her young children, Samantha wanted to create a stylish yet safe flooring solution for young families

The wipe-clean surfaces makes these mats perfect for drooling babies

What inspired you to launch the Toddlekind brand?

We’d just moved into our new house when my youngest was born and had opted for wooden floors and tiles, but buying a rug just didn’t seem logical when we had a dribbling baby! That’s when we realised that there really needed to be a wipe-clean flooring solution for babies that was stylish, fitted into a modern home, but also provided protection for little ones. We came up with the idea for the Prettier Playmat, which worked as both a rug replacement and playmat for those early years, with a wipe-clean surface.

What are the brand’s values?

Our customers and community are at the heart of everything we do, and as a mum creating products for other mums, my goal is to understand what our customers’ value – from design, to the service we offer, and of course the products themselves. We have a thriving online community with whom we interact daily. Aside from that, we strive to deliver on innovation and quality, taking existing products

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INSPIRE

SAMANTHA BRÜCKNER

The founder of Toddlekind talks chic interiors, making time for family and her proudest business moments to date and working to make them even more beautiful and functional.

When it comes to sourcing materials and suppliers, we only work with the very best, to ensure production stays ethical and the quality remains second to none.

Describe a typical day for you.

I work from home, which makes life much easier! At around 8.30am, my husband takes the children to kindergarten (we live in Germany), while I answer emails

from our suppliers, who are based in other time zones. My role involves working on new designs, marketing strategies, logistics and sales. I also try to fit a run in every day, and after collecting the kids at 4pm, I run after them until bedtime. After that, I sometimes go back to my office, watch Netflix, or read before bed.

How do you maintain a good work/life balance?

I don’t believe in trying to do everything yourself, Toddlekind’s designs so if something can come in an array of chic be delegated or colours and prints outsourced, it is! By passing over tasks like accounting or customer service, it allows me to focus on strategy and frees up more time to spend with my young family.

What’s been your proudest business moment?

Having celebrities and influencers endorse our products, positive feedback, winning awards, and shops all over the world reaching out to work with us.

What’s next for Toddlekind?

This spring, we’re bringing out a new range of playmats, including The Earth collection, which comes in a gorgeous range of earthy tones. We’re also launching Clean Wean Mats, which is the ultimate splat mat for under the highchair, to protect your floor during mealtimes. They’re multifunctional and can be used under a desk or dressing table, and look like a work of art! We’re launching a stunning range of organic textiles, too, including our Bare Baby Mats, which are made from 100 per cent organic cotton.

They have a waterproof centre, so baby can enjoy bare-bottom time without the risk of floors getting damaged. As well as this, we have a new range of storage baskets, tipis, cushions and accessories to match the playmats. toddlekind.co.uk

COLLECTION BABY CARRIER ONE Ergonomic, soft and comfortable