Baby February 2019

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FEBRUARY 2019 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

talk

Little Treasure

CUTE & COSY WINTER-READY

BABY NUMBER TWO?

How to cherish their first year

Sex during pregnancy

NURSERIES

Why it’s harder second time round

Claire Danes

WEANING SUCCESS quick and easy recipes

HOMELAND STAR ON MOTHERHOOD

BE MINE… Valentine’s special THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAY

£4.20

Romantic getaways

Ultimate babymoon hotspots

2018 Product of the Year!

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

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

WHY SLE E PYH E A D?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pillows and covers present a suffocation risk to your baby.

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

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

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

4. Never leave baby alone in adult bed.

New!

BLACK MARBLE COVER

Available exclusively at Harrods.

S LE E PYH E A DOFSWED EN . CO M | @SLEEPYHEAD O FSWED EN

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

With an all weather seat, swanky storage system, and the ability to expand to a double or even a twin (24 modes in all!)—the DEMI™ grow really does have it all—no matter what fate may throw your way.

Find out more at nuna.eu

CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2019

Sebastian wears long-sleeved cotton body, £25, Noa Noa Miniature at AlexandAlexa. Merino dungarees, £39, La Coqueta Kids. Cotton socks (pack of four), £60, Tartine et Chocolat.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: RICHARD BURNS

FEATURES

48 YOURS TO KEEP Looking for gifts to cherish for years to come? Read our roundup of the very best baby keepsakes 54 DANES SUPREME Hollywood actress Claire Danes shares how becoming a mother has added calm and clarity to her life 63 PARTY TIME: VALENTINE’S DAY Carole Middleton shares her top planning tips to get the whole family involved this Valentine’s Day 69 BEHIND THE BRAND: MERCI MAMAN Natalie Keeler meets the jewellery label founder Béatrice de Montille, to talk motherhood and business 74 PILLOW TALK Have questions about sex during and after pregnancy?

Breastfeeding expert Louisa Van den Bergh reveals all

STYLE

38 BLOOMING LOVELY Soft pinks, cosy knits and hints of mauve steal the show in our new-season edit 52 LOVED UP Date-night fashion to help you feel fabulous, whether you’re pre or post baby

SHOPPING

23 BABY LOVES Embrace the season of love with these super-sweet kicks 25 SHOP THE THEMES Whatever your nursery style, say hello to spring with this season’s latest offerings 82 FEELING FUZZY Interiors guru Ali Howard shares her top tips for creating a cosy nursery space

63 Love is in the air with Carole leto s ale t e s a art ear so

FOOD & TRAVEL

85 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest treats for babies, children and parents 86 FAMILY FEAST Infant nutritionist Alice Fotheringham rounds-up a few seasonal treats that the whole family can enjoy 91 TRAVEL NEWS Fancy heading somewhere warm? Check out the newest escapes and products for young families 92 POSTCARD FROM FRANCE Martha Alexander and family travel to the peaceful Country Kids Resort in Octon, southern France 94 LOVE NESTS Whether you’re on a pre-birth break or travelling with baby, these getaways are the epitome of romantic bliss

baby-magazine.co.uk | 5

Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Acting Editor Rebecca Moore Online Editor Jennifer Read-Dominguez Sub Editors Natalie Keeler, Laura Sutherland Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Freelance Designer Matt Bookman Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West Publishing Director Paul Rayner Director of Media James Dobson

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Advertisement Director Lyndal Beeton Head of Market Julie Price Sales Executive Katie Amps Digital and Creative Solutions Manager Ben Leek

REGULARS

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BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small WIN! A BABY BUNDLE FROM KIT & KIN Bag yourself a year’s supply of nappies and wipes, worth over £450 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Our pick of the best baby-related events happening in the UK this February MY ESSENTIALS TV magician Ben Hanlin talks dad milestones and life with baby Elvis THE POWER OF LOVE Emma O’Donovan rounds up her favourite affectionate books for baby LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month MATERNITY FASHION NEWS Fashion finds to style your bump DIARY OF A MUM In Joanna Ellner’s latest instalment, she and baby Noah attempt to break their co-sleeping habit

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

Magician Ben Hanlin discusse s the prospect of having two tots under two (p.33)

60 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus we put the Egg stroller to the test 69 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS The latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing 71 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST If you’re struggling to conceive for a second time, our fertility expert is here to talk you through the facts 73 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ In her latest column, Professor Amy Brown explains what to do if you’re planning to stop breastfeeding 77 TIME TO TALK Returning to work? Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt explain how to ease yourself back in after maternity leave 78 THE REVIEW As the long nights continue, Laura Mason puts five of the very best nightlights to the test 81 INTERIOR NEWS Stylish updates and and inspiring finds to make your house a home 81 BOUTIQUES Our pick of the most beautiful baby boutiques nationwide 98 INSPIRE We chat to Alina Sack, mum-of-two and owner of Australian brand ergoPouch, about business and sleeping babies

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

BABY (print) ISSN 2516-5178 BABY (online) ISSN 2517-813X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2019 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHER: RICHARD BURNS MODEL: OSCAR Oscar wears romper suit, £39, La Coqueta.

Long-sleeved cotton body, £25, Noa Noa Miniature at AlexandAlexa. Slippers, ¤47, Easy Peasy.

Bobo Choses playsuit ¤45, bobochoses.com

Cute and cosy interior details are sure to make you and baby feel warm and fuzzy inside!

From a selection at camcamcopenhagen.com

EDITORS

LETTER

REBECCA MOORE, ACTING EDITOR

@baby_mag_insta

VISIT •

@BabyMagazineUK

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@BabyMagazineUK

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Sleepyhead Deluxe Plus cover £75, harrods.com

#babymagishere

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

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B Silent Wellness Box £100, bamford.com

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LaLa Loves Decor acrylic sign £18, scandiborn.com

Day has rounded up the dreamiest date night outfits for both pregnancy and nursing, see for yourself on page 52. Speaking of sexy… a Valentine edition wouldn’t be complete without a feature on the ‘s’ word. Louisa Van den Bergh breaks down the taboo with her fantastic piece on couples’ intimacy – make it your ultimate guide to sex during pregnancy and beyond (p.74).

Finally, as there’s all this love in the air, we’ve decided to really spoil you readers with this month’s fantastic competition. We’ve teamed up with the gorgeous eco-friendly brand cofounded by Emma Bunton, Kit & Kin to give away a year’s supply of nappies and wipes, which arrive at your door every month – could there be a better treat? Turn to page 19 to read how to enter.

Happy reading!

KEE

Coast pushchair £950, silvercrossbaby.com

I always find the first few months of the year mindboggling. Part of me is still in the year before, the other half is weeks ahead.

Keeping track of passing time can be a real struggle when there’s a little person by your side taking the lion’s share of your attention, and if like me you can’t remember what you had for lunch yesterday, let alone when your baby first rolled over, then I urge you to turn to page 48, where we’ve rounded up the best baby keepsakes for the most beautiful ways to treasure those valuable early years.

You’ll soon notice that this issue has its fair share (and a few extra for good measure) of reds and pinks. February is the lovey-doviest month, and who deserves more love than your own little babe?! Check out our Valentineinspired shopping pages, starting on page 25 for some heartfelt shopping advice. And if you’re wanting to update baby’s wardrobe, then prepare to swoon over our baby photoshoot (p.38).

If you’re currently carrying precious cargo you may not be feeling your sexiest this V-Day, but do try and make the most of it as it may be your last as a twosome. Camilla Ridley-

@baby_magazine_uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 9

Where were you born?

I was born in Birmingham.

Which month do you love the most?

August! I love the warmth of summer and opportunity it brings to enjoy the great outdoors again.

Favourite thing about motherhood?

The unconditional love – those moments when you fear you may burst with happiness, pride and love make it all worthwhile.

Laura reviews the best nightlights on p.78

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Where were you born?

Cardiff – during one of the worst snow storms the UK has ever seen; the army were brought in to help pregnant women into hospital!

Which month do you love the most?

April; flowers, baby lambs and the promise (hopefully) of warmer weather.

Favourite thing about motherhood?

Seeing them become their own little people, with their own beliefs.

Check out Amy’s feeding advice on p.73

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CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

St Thomas’ Hospital, London.

Which month do you love the most?

Has to be my birthday month, September.

It’s when treat myself by doing something fun and momentous.

Favourite thing about motherhood?

Has to be the unconditional love you receive, that despite my imperfections that little person loves me anyway – priceless.

Check out Michelle’s adorable styling on p.38

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

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BABY ONLINE

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Head online to check out our fabulous selection of competitions

Expert advice from medical professionals to keep parents in the know We talk about all things pregnancy and parenting

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICKY CHOW

One-year-old Aoibhe lives in Glasgow with mum Lilian and dad Nicky. She’s often found playing with different musical instruments or dancing around the house, but loves nothing more than a bedtime story.

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 11 January 2019.

12 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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litetrax™ 4 flex signature Welcome to a luxurious world of warmly woven quilted fabrics; aged cognac leatherette touches; and an elite, high brilliance carriage chassis; all exquisitely crafted to make memories of each moment with baby last forever.

A SIMPLY TIMELESS 3IN1 SYSTEM WITH THE FINEST OF FOLDS.

joiebaby.com/signature

in-seat suspension for a 30% smoother stroll

Available from Argos, Boots, Mothercare and all good independent nursery retailers.

baby

NEWS

NEWS

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

TRÈS CHIC

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KEEP U P

We’ve had a sneak peek at the new season collection from French brand Tartine et Chocolat, and safe to say it’s got us dreaming of sunny Riviera days. An ode to summer, there’s plenty of vintage-inspired embroidery, Liberty prints and florals, with subtle shades and classic shapes for both boys and girls from newborn up to 12 years old. tartine-et-chocolat.com

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YM A G A ZI N

RESEARCH BY CHILDCARE.CO.UK HAS FOUND THAT GRANDPARENTS WOULD EARN NEARLY £19,000 A YEAR IF THEY WERE PAID TO BABYSIT THEIR GRANDCHILDREN – MORE THAN TWICE THE AVERAGE ANNUAL STATE PENSION. WHEN QUESTIONING MEMBERS, 58% ADMITTED THEY RELIED ON THEIR PARENTS FOR CHILDCARE AT LEAST THREE TIMES A WEEK. CHILDCARE.CO.UK

baby-magazine.co.uk | 15

NEWS

CRADLE OF LOVE The Little Green Sheep’s gorgeous new organic Moses basket make the perfect addition to a nursery. As with all its products, the basket is woven from strong palm leaf that’s both durable and breathable. Choose from three shades of the cable-knit liner – midnight blue, cream and grey. The basket comes with a Little Green Sheep mattress, with a stand available to buy separately. £79.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

ISLE STYLE

Frugi’s latest muslin designs are inspired by the Isles of Scilly, a group of islands 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall. The new prints feature jellyfish, puffins, waves and aeroplanes with plenty of colour and, as always, they’re made from 100 per cent organic cotton that’s gentle on baby’s delicate skin. £14, welovefrugi.com

That’s Scandi

We’re big fans of the latest collection from Sebra. The Danish interiors label offers up a healthy dose of Nordic cool, combining modern design with pops of colour and tactile touches. Standouts include the pull-along crochet toys, signature cotbed and handpainted wooden play kitchen. nubie.co.uk

MAMAS & PAPAS HAS OPENED ITS FIRST CONCESSION IN NEXT HOME’S CRIBBS CAUSEWAY STORE IN BRISTOL, OFFERING A CURATED RANGE OF CLOTHING, FURNITURE, PUSHCHAIRS AND CAR SEATS. AND IT’S NOT JUST PRODUCTS: IT’LL HOST EDUCATIONAL PARENTING EVENTS, A PERSONAL SHOPPING SERVICE AND FREE CAR-SEAT FITTINGS. MAMASANDPAPAS.COM

WIN A COCOONABABY NEST baby’s st will ease ic cocoon ne m no ld go or er w s er Thi to the wid transition in 16 | baby-magazine.co.uk

The Cocoonababy® by Red Castle® is an ergonomic cocoon nest, which, through the first few months of life, can be used to aid your little one’s development, easing their transition from your tummy to the outside world.

Originally designed for premature infants in neonatal units, Cocoonababy®, has now introduced three beautiful new designs to its collection; Leaf, Dreamy Cloud and Miss Sunday.

To celebrate, we’ve got one to give away (worth £160) in the print of your choice. Visit our website to enter – good luck!

Enter online at baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions

NEWS

MOTHER NATURE

Emily of Brick Dust and Glitter shares local family activity inspiration and crafting tips

All-natural brand Kit & Kin, known for its gentle skincare and fun animal eco nappies, has launched a clothing line.

We’re particularly fond of the all-in-one with hand and feet covers, which comes in six prints including waves, clouds and mountains. Available in sizes newborn to 18 months. £21.99, kitandkin.com

BEST OF THE BLOGS

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

THIS LITTLE HOUSE

GOOD GIRAFFE

Help those in need with the latest Sophie La Giraffe teething pack. Teaming up with medical humanitarian organisation Médecins Sans Frontières, each set that’s sold will fund three measles vaccinations for children at risk. The pack includes an original Sophie La Giraffe and a smaller vanilla teether. £16.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Animal behaviour

The iconic Neckerchew teething bib from Cheeky Chompers is now available in two new prints. Unicorn Delight in pastel pink features the mythical creature surrounded by hearts and stars, while the Fox & Friends print depicts woodland animals on a green background. Both bibs are reversible, with a plain side for easy coordinating. £11.99, cheekychompers.com

Liverpool girl Claire’s mum to two small boys – Caleb and Archie – and lives in Edinburgh with them and her other half, Michael. On her blog she documents family adventures, various aspects of motherhood and her passion for interior and design, with sneak peeks around her stylish home.

She’s been posting since 2013, so there’s lots of archived posts to explore, and we implore you to check out her Instagram account – it’s a treasure trove of lovely family pics. thislittlehouse.co.uk

POCKET NANNIES Pocket Nannies is run by Sophie and Sarah, two nannies who met while training at the worldfamous Norland College in Bath. Their blog, with posts written by an array of nannies, parents and childcare professionals, is a space for craft ideas, family recipes, and expert views. There’s a number of categories to scroll through; including Out & About, with ideas for seasonal activities, and People & Products, highlighting new products that make parenting easier. pocketnannies.co.uk

BRICK DUST & GLITTER Emily lives in Lincoln with partner Rob and their children Raphael and Giulietta, and runs lifestyle blog Brick Dust and Glitter. Content’s frequently added, with articles covering fashion, sustainable living and travel. Emily’s quite the crafter, with a number of DIY posts, from turning old jumpers into a scarf to homemade firelighters. There’s also a section dedicated to her hometown, with posts covering local sights and family attractions. brickdustandglitter.blogspot.com

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BABY’S SOCIAL EDIT When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment to s are a et o r a l fi

Top tweets

@baby_mag_insta @RIVERISLAND

@HIBOU_HOME

@LittleRoutines: The Ultimate Baby Book is on sale now – my article on setting a #routine will help guide you & your #baby towards a good night’s sleep

@HELENMARSDENPHOTOGRAPHY

@izmiBaby: Great to see our Izmi range on double spread in @BabyMagazineUK

@LEONIEFREEMANPHOTO

@andBreathePost: ‘I came away revived and feeling that &Breathe is more than a retreat...’ says writer Zoey Goto of our 24 hour retreats @FSHampshire in the latest issue of @BabyMagazineUK

@CHLOEUBERKID

@CHRISTYLEIGHPHOTO

@me_and_em: Seen in @BabyMagazineUK – the Cashmere Box Zip Hoody

@BabyMagazineUK

@baby_magazine_uk

@babymagazineuk

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parenting news and reviews, as well as honest and intimate conversations with experts about parenting.

baby-magazine.co.uk/parenting-panel 18 | baby-magazine.co.uk

COMPETITION

WIN!

A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF NAPPIES AND WIPES FROM KIT & KIN

WORTH £545

T&C’S: COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 29 JANUARY 2019.

A

ward-winning brand Kit & Kin has been taking the baby world by storm since its launch in March 2017. Using natural, nourishing, eco-friendly and sustainable ingredients and materials, its products don’t just look good, but do good, too.

As a parent, you’ll know all about the stress that comes with discovering your nappy supplies are running low. That’s why we love the convenient, hassle-free process behind Kit & Kin’s innovative monthly bundles, which sees safe and effective everyday products, from nappies to wipes, delivered straight to your door. The eco-friendly nappies are not only super absorbent, but also use significantly fewer chemicals than standard nappies,

leaving your little one dry and comfortable for up to 12 hours – plus, for every 10 nappy subscriptions, the company fund the purchase of one acre of threatened tropical rainforest through the World Land Trust.

Babies’ bums will adore Kit & Kin’s biodegradable wipes, soft, gentle and effective, containing aloe vera, chamomile and cucumber extracts.

Prepare to indulge with their fabulous range of certified natural skincare bundles, too.

From cleansing body wash and hydrating bubble bath for baby, to deeply

moisturising body butter and breast balm for mum, each product is made with only the purest, cleanest ingredients.

It’s little wonder then, that we’re delighted to be partnering up with the brand to offer one lucky reader a year’s supply of nappies and wipes, worth over £450! Plus, as February’s the month of love Kit & Kin is throwing in a baby skincare bundle (worth £29.99), and a selection from their all new 100 per cent organic cotton babywear range, including a gorgeous print all-in-one (worth £21.99) and sleeping bag (worth £39.99), too. Enter online to be in with a shot… kitandkin.com

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

Join Bing and friends at Newcastle Tyne Theatre & Opera House

FEBRUARY

5 FEBRUARY

Go east

6 FELINE FUN

London’s Chinatown will be bursting with decorations to mark the start of Chinese New Year this weekend. Take the children to Leicester Square’s family zone on Sunday for plenty of cultural activities and shows.

Enjoy riotous rhymes as The Cat in the Hat arrives at Edinburgh’s King’s Theatre.

Open from today until Saturday, this much-loved Dr Seuss story is a purr-fect treat for the whole family. Tickets £18.50, capitaltheatres.com

8 THE BIG BANG

Take your underfour along to Fendi dress Techniquest’s £280, childrensalon.com Toddler Day in Cardiff. The centre runs pre-school days to instil kids’ interest in science from a young age. techniquest.com

The Oxfordshire Baby and Toddler Show opens its doors today from 10am, with plenty of big-name brands and boutique offerings exhibiting. £4, yourlocalbabyshow.co.uk

DIARY

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

12 STORY TIME

Enter a magical world of witches, dragons and Gruffalos as the first ever exhibition dedicated to Julia Donaldson’s wonderful stories opens its doors from today. Taking place at Z-arts in Manchester, younger visitors can also take part in fun arts and crafts sessions. z-arts.org

13 SPRING FEST 1 FEBRUARY

In style

Luxury brand Belle Enfant will launch its SS19 collection today, available both online and in various retailers worldwide, including Harrods.

The range for little ones aged newborn to six years features designs in shades of white, cornflower blue and blush pink. belleenfant-boutique.com

20 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Revel in a jam-packed programme of singing, dancing and creativity as Southbank Centre’s Imagine Children’s Festival returns.

Kicking off today, look out hip-hop theatre shows and an adaptation of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, accompanied by a live orchestra. southbankcentre.co.uk

14 LOVED UP

If date nights have become a bit of a luxury for you and your partner, tonight you have no excuses! Book the babysitter, put your gladrags on and head out for a gorgeous Valentine’s dinner at your favourite dining spot.

Better yet, we’ve rounded up some of the best romantic getaways on page 94, and baby can even come along for the ride, too.

16 HAY THERE

Visit Tatton Park in Knutsford, Cheshire today for the start of its annual Scarecrow Festival, in which more than 30 scarecrows can be found within the grounds – see if you can spot them all! tattonpark.org.uk

23 SHOW TIME

CBeebies fave Bing Live will be at Newcastle Tyne Theatre & Opera House as part of the show’s first UK tour. Join Bing, Flop and friends as they tell stories and sing songs. bingliveshow.com

24 NAMASTE

Head to Chelsea’s Triyoga for Lolly Stirk’s Active Birth and Hypnobreathing workshop.

It’ll teach you and your partner how the body works during labour, with breathing and tension release tips. £155 per couple, triyoga.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

10 SHOP SMART

dates for your

Linen yoga mat £42, johnlewis.com

first-time skiing: EAS Y AS Thanks to our unique Yeti Primer programme for 3 and 4 year olds, taking to the slopes for the first time could not be easier. Little ones will be in their element on the slopes with our team, younger siblings from 4 months will feel at home in our pb crèche, and parents will love our complimentary ski guiding service. Join us for a week or a long weekend, our award-winning programmes run every week of the season.

powderbyrne.com or call 020 8246 5300 SKI | ADVENTURE | SUN

Visit

EXPER IEN C E P OWD E R BY R N E Stay for seven nights at the Hotel Adula in Flims, Switzerland on bed & breakfast, including flights from London, resort transfers and Powder Byrne in-resort service. From ÂŁ3,989 for a family of four.

Kids five and under ski for free with Powder Byrne outside UK school holidays in Flims Laax, with complimentary ski passes throughout the season and complimentary ski and boot rental during selected weeks.

WA L L PA P E R

O R G A N I C COT TO N B E D L I N E N

CUSHIONS

NE W ORGANIC B E DL I NE N COL L E C T I ON N OW ONL I NE

HOME

HIBOU WWW.H I BOUHO M E.CO M

@hibou_home

@hibouhome

hibouhome

LOVE S Your little one will be pretty in pink when you dress her in these pastel lace-up pumps

THAT LOVING FE E LING

February is the month of love – and who deserves more XOXO than our little cherubs?! We’re thrilled that interiors brand Little Cloud is back in action after some time out, and what a comeback: teaming up with baby-shoe designer Amy & Ivor! Baby is sure to make your heart skip a beat when dressed in these super-sweet kicks. Happy Valentine’s!

Little Cloud X Amy & Ivor Blush Travellers with Liberty laces, £42, hedleyfield.com

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Hand - engraved wi� love in London mercimamanboutique.com Free shipping worldwide

Northern pendant light £1,267, madeindesign.co.uk

Velvet hairband £6, rockahulakids.com

Miffy soft toy £19.50, hurnandhurn.com Cotton sleepsuit £29.50, babymori.com

From a selection at boden.co.uk

Smocked dress £115, amaiakids.co.uk

SOFT FOCUS

Cotton-blend bloomers £46, pepaandcompany.com

Create a calming nursery environment with plenty of pieces in soothing pastel tones Garbo & Friends sleeping bag £67, smallable.com Personalised print £35, belleandboo.com

Easy Peasy shoes £43, alexandalexa.com

Muslin swaddles £44.95, adenandanais.co.uk

Moumout bouncer £178, smallable.com

Lorena Canals rug £149, nubie.co.uk

SHOPPING Meri Meri hair slides £6.95, harrods.com

Cotton bodysuit £44, bellaandfrank.co.uk From a selection at caramel-shop.co.uk

Cotton dungarees £42, lacoquetakids.com

Sew Heart Felt toy £15.95, hurnahurna.com

Cotton top £38, stellamccartney.com

SIMPLY RED

Mohair teddy £99.90, steiff.com

Whether you choose a heart print or colourblock, dress your darling in this bold shade

Oeuf NYC trousers £80, smallable.com

Phi Clothing blouse £49, childrensalon.com Suede clutch £45, jemandbea.com

One Air carrier £159, babybjorn.co.uk

Leather shoes £22, bobux.co.uk Eames elephant £185, vitra.com

Tweedmill blanket £49.95, hurnandhurn.com

happy tums. happy mums.

Care Co-lactase Infant drops Feed milk immediately after adding Co-lactase

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Colic – Treatment, NHS Choices: “Lactase is an enzyme that helps break down a sugar called lactose, which is found in milk. Your baby may have a temporary problem digesting lactose, which could contribute to their colicky symptoms.” (2015)¹

www.allthecareyouneed.co.uk You should see an improvement after 1 week. If symptoms persist after this time please speak to your Healthcare Professional.

Reference: 1. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Colic/Pages/Treatment.aspx Thornton & Ross Ltd, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD7 5QH. Telephone 01484 842217.

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Cotton bunting £37.95, torimurphy.com

Emile et Ida jumpsuit £62, smallable.com From a selection at thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

Harrods of London cardigan £89.95, harrods.com

Cam Cam Copenhagen mobile £28, beyondthestork.co.uk

Smocked romper £26, boden.co.uk

The Little Tailor leggings £12, childrensalon.com

SWEET CREAMS

Liewood plate £16.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Cotton romper £48, lacoquetakids.com

Olli Ella basket £35, notonthehighstreet.com

Stomp V3 pushchair £449, icklebubba.com

Plush toy £21.90, steiff.com

Lorena Canals rug £212.95, scandiborn.co.uk baby-magazine.co.uk | 29

SHOPPING

Sleepyhead cover £55, harrods.com

Teething toy £14, nibbling.co.uk

From a selection at alexandalexa.com

Broderie anglaise dress £22, boden.co.uk

Stella McCartney bonnet £45, alexandalexa.com Cotton romper £72, ilgufo.com

TICKLED PINK

Cotton babygrow £30, rachelriley.co.uk

This Valentine’s Day, treat your sweetheart to treats in a spectrum of rose-tinted hues Burberry dress £170, childrensalon.com Disney sleeping bag £29.95, adenandanais.co.uk

Suede moccasins £22, bobux.co.uk

Personalised chair from £315, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com

Plush toy £12, jellycat.com Cotton canvas rucksack £18, outside-the-lines.co.uk

Handwoven rug £210, verymerryberry.co.uk 30 | baby-magazine.co.uk

#25

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INTERVIEW

The couple’s iCandy pushchair draws many an admiring glance from fellow parents iCandy Peach Chrome £999, johnlewis.com

Ben’s wife Bri

ony is expect ing the couple second child ’s in May 2019

MY ESSENTIALS How’s life being father to 15-month-old baby Elvis?

At the moment we’re right in the middle of sleep training, which means the last couple of days have started with me and him watching Iggle Piggle at 5:30am!

I’m sure we’ve all been there…

What’s been your biggest dad milestone so far?

I think the first time I was looking after him for the entire night on my own was a bit of a biggie. I was also playing him AC/DC the other day and he was loving it, I feel like the important dadding landmarks have begun!

What are your favourite children’s brands?

He has a pair of velcro Vans which are amazing. His favourite toy has to be the singing cookie jar! Not quite a brand, but The Teletubbies are a life saver. When we need to change him, we stick that on YouTube and it keeps him still long enough to change the nappy.

BEN HANLIN

Magician and dad to baby Elvis talks fatherhood milestones and the prospect of having two under two And what’s been your pushchair of choice for Elvis?

I do love our iCandy pushchair – it gets nods of approval from passing dads!

When you’re out with Elvis, what can be found in your changing bag?

Snacks (for him mainly); a toy Ben’s new live show will kick off in Birmingham in the new year

remote control because he loves pushing buttons, which is hopefully not a sign of things to come; spare clothes; extra dummies and what feels like a lifetime’s supply of nappies…

You started a separate Instagram @benbehavingdadly – what was the reason behind that?

Two reasons: I wanted to document this time in my life, and I knew I would make a lot of mistakes when trying to figure out this being-a-dad thing, so hopefully by posting some of them it might serve as some use to dads in the future.

With your wife Briony expecting in May 2019, how are you feeling Swaddle suit £22.95, about having ‘two naturalbabyshower.co.uk under two’?

‘Two under two’ is a phrase I’d never heard before this year, but when you say it to another parent they react like I’ve told them I’m going skydiving as they always say: “you’re brave!”

I’ve asked a lot of people that

baby-magazine.co.uk | 33

INTERVIEW

Sleepsuit (pack of three) from £16, next.co.uk

Ben documents his fathering adventures on Instagram

How’s Briony’s second pregnancy going so far?

It’s a bit different from the last one as she felt pretty sick during the first trimester. That’s passed now. The big difference now is that she’s pregnant AND having to run around after Elvis which is obviously way more tiring than last time around.

Any advice for any mums or dads embarking on their journey to parenthood?

Ha! Yes, my advice would be to make the most of going out now! Enjoy being able to walk out the house at a moment’s notice because that changes. Also if you’re thinking of trying for a

34 | baby-magazine.co.uk

baby… try not to let it stress you out – I know that’s easier said than done!

How do you go about achieving a work-life balance?

I got a really strong piece of advice from a comedian, Justin Moorhouse. He explained that because the job of a performer means you tend to be away from home a lot, and have an all-over-

This musical toy is a favourite with Elvis!

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Cookie Shape Surprise, £14.99, argos.co.uk

the-place schedule when you’re finally at home, that you have to be present for your family.

That’s something that I’m trying to get the hang of but it’s also definitely something that I could still improve on.

Ben spends a lot of time on the road, so he tries to be a hands-on dad when at home

Will you go down the musical path again when choosing baby number two’s name?

Ha! Now, that’d be telling. I’m aware we went a bit punchy on the first one and I’m not sure how we’re going to beat that. I want “Walt” but Briony has shot that down! So I guess you’ll have to watch this space…

Alongside your new baby, what else does 2019 have in store?

I’ve got some live dates booked for my new show, 50 which will start in Birmingham. Hopefully I’ll do a few more live dates throughout the rest of the UK. I’m also working on some more telly projects, which I can’t exactly talk about at the moment. Exciting times ahead.

INTERVIEW: ANNIE QUINTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/BENBEHAVINGDADLY; KEN MCKAY/ITV/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK; ROBERTO RICCIUTI/GETTY IMAGES; STEVE ULLATHORNE

have been in this position and the general answer is that it’ll be pretty tough for the first couple of years, but then it gets really fun as they’re so close in age. Also trying to keep positive, we’re all geared up for the arrival of a baby as we still have everything we need. So it should be fine… right?!

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THE POWER OF

LOVE

Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P H ER FAVOU RITE H E ARTFELT BOOKS FOR BABY

LOVE FROM ME TO YOU

By Patricia Hegarty and Fhiona Galloway A real feel-good read to share with your beloved baby. Love emanates off every page of this bright, engaging and stylish peek-through book. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

BOOKS

This cute hide-and-seek adventure comes complete with super-soft fi er ets

A KISS FOR YOU

By Patricia Hegarty and Laura Barker Little hand will love discovering animals and their parents hidden beneath the flaps in this heartwarming board book. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

ISLE OF YOU

ILLUSTRATION: FHIONA GALLOWAY

By David LaRochelle and Jaime Kim Feelings can overwhelm little ones but this comforting picture book is the perfect introduction to hearing those three special words. £11.99, Walker Books

KISS THE CROCODILE

By Sean Taylor and Ben Mantle

The jungle crew are having heaps

of fun playing together, but crocodile wants to play too and has an idea for the perfect game.

Brilliant fun for little ones. £6.99, Walker Books

clever pop-up book destined to become a family favourite. £6.99, Templar Publishing

celebration of special moments. £11.99, Walker Books

HAPPY TO BE ME

GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU: HERE I AM

By Kathryn Cristaldi and Krystyna Litten

By Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram

By Emma Dodd

A wonderful book exploring the senses, feelings, family and friendship. This adorable bright and bubbly story celebrates diversity and inclusivity in a bright positive and engaging way. £12.99, Orchard Books

I LOVE YOU (NEARLY ALWAYS)

Squeals of delight guaranteed with this hide-and-seek adventure inspired by a much-loved classic.

It comes complete with supersoft finger puppets. £8.99, Walker Books

FOR ALL THE STARS ACROSS THE SKY

By Anna Llenas

By Karl Newson and Chiaki Okada

Roly is a woodlouse and Rita is a firefly. They are very different, but this is why they like each other. A

Fantastical adventures unfold as Luna gets ready for bed in this sweetly soporific bedtime story. A

I’LL LOVE YOU...

An anarchic celebration of love, involving a myriad of bizarre creatures from yaks to manatees.

Delightfully jolly and filled with the most beautiful illustrations. £6.99, Andersen Press

HUGLESS DOUGLAS AND THE BABY BIRDS

By David Melling

He’s back and what could be better than a Douglas hug for Valentine’s Day? He and the funny bunnies provide endless smiles as they look after a nest of chicks. £12.99, Hodder Children’s Books

baby-magazine.co.uk | 37

Reva wears cotton-mix bodysuit, £13. Hurst & Claire at AlexandAlexa. Wool-mix jumpsuit, £49, Noa Noa Miniature at AlexandAlexa.

Alpaca-wool hat, ¤40, Oeuf NYC. Cotton-mix socks (set of four), ¤60, Tartine et Chocolat. Paper pom poms, £7, Talking Tables.

Blooming

lovely PHOTOGR APHY: R ICHAR D BUR NS ST YLING: MICH ELLE PIER R E- CAR R

Goldie wears cotton cardigan with frill collar, ¤75, Tartine et Chocolat. Merino bonnet, £29, La Coqueta Kids.

James wears short sleeve shirt, £16, Rachel Riley Diffusion. Cotton babygrow, £39, Noa Noa Miniature at AlexandAlexa.

Merino bonnet, £29, La Coqueta Kids. Cotton-mix socks (set of four), ¤60, Tartine et Chocolat.

Athina wears cotton-mix jumper dress, £32, The White Company. Knitted cardigan, ¤60, Louis Louise.

Athina wears cotton-mix jumper, £32, Cyrillus at AlexandAlexa. Knitted bloomers, ¤55, Louis Louise. Merino booties, £24, La Coqueta Kids.

Reva wears printed bodysuit, £23, Hurst & Claire at AlexandAlexa. Knitted cardigan, ¤55, Louis Louise. Alpaca-wool crown, ¤40, Oeuf NYC.

Goldie wears knitted cardigan, ¤55, Louis Louise. Cotton-mix dress with bloomers, from £39, Carrement Beau at House of Fraser.

Wool-mix bonnet, ¤36, Louis Louise.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: ATHINA, GOLDIE, JAMES, OSCAR AND REVA. MODEL AGENCIES: BONNIE & BETTY, BRUCE & BROWN, GRACE & GALOR AND KIDS LONDON. ART DIRECTOR: CHLOË COLLYER.

Oscar wears merino romper. £49, La Coqueta Kids. Merino cardigan, £59, La Coqueta Kids.

C

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

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

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BABY TALK

F

ebruary is one of my favourite months. You can’t help but think of Valentine’s day and I love seeing hearts everywhere. I know everyone seems to jump on the bandwagon and it feels like Christmas has only just finished, but I really enjoy making Valentine cards with the children and baking love-heart biscuits. My father still has a Valentine card that I wrote to him when I was my daughter’s age and it makes me smile when I see it. I thought I’d written it perfectly,but I’d signed off with “Guess Shoe?”!

It’s a busy month and with half term coming up, we’ll be back and forth from the countryside, so I’m planning lots of trips to the Science Museum. I hope you enjoy my dream picks this month.

Chubby Heart backpack, £320, anyahindmarch.com

I’m lusting after anything from Anya Hindmarch’s Chubby range at the moment. This heart backpack is super-cool and seems to scream ‘I love you’. It’d also make a rather chic alternative to a nappy bag, don’t you think?

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

WHERE TO GO

You never really think of The Science Museum as being a good stop-off for a baby, but its incredible Pattern Pod is an amazing multi-sensory area for children under eight.

And when I say under eight, I mean even babies love it. They can explore water ripples without actually getting wet, recognise and copy patterns and listen to all sorts of sounds. My littlest one absolutely loves it and the great news is that it’s free AND open daily. sciencemuseum.org.uk

Leo’s

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

Mayfair watch, £425, bamfordlondon.com

I know I’m biased, but my husband designs these awesome Mayfair watches and I can’t resist sharing the red dial, which comes with a free engraving, making a perfect Valentine’s present for all those daddies out there.

Agatha Ruiz de la Prada shoes, £26, alexandalexa.com

I don’t have a baby girl anymore, but if I could squeeze my seven-year-old daughter into these, I would. These from Agatha Ruiz de la Prada T-bars shoes are absolutely adorable.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 47

BABY

DAWN FRAMED PHOTO

CARRS SILVER KEEPSAKE BOX

Commemorate the first day of baby’s life with a photograph of the first dawn on that very same day. thedaythat.co.uk

With a gold-plated fairy placed on the top, this precious trinket is ideal for storing baby’s first teeth. £129, harrods.com

BIRTHDAY LETTERS TO MY BABY

MEMORY CUSHION

Write special letters to your little ones each year inside this luxury annual keepsake book, which includes enough pages to savour memories all the way up to her 18th birthday. £50, noths.com

Make the most of baby’s old clothes by having them woven into a cosy keepsake cushion. £45, lovekeepcreate.co.uk

1ST TO 18TH BIRTHDAY MEMORY BOOK

PERSONALISED FLAT BANGLE

LEATHER KEEPSAKE BOX

Engrave your child’s name on to a beautiful bracelet, available in silver, gold and rose gold. £39, mercimamanboutique.com

This case is perfect for storing cherished items from baby’s first years, such as photos and toys. £50, thewhitecompany.com

FAMILY HANDPRINTS

THE ULTIMATE BABY BOOK

Combine your colourful prints by layering them over each other in this clever frame. £24.99, baby-art.com

Treasure the highs and lows of your pregnancy in this coveted guide, with lots of space for photos, too. £7.49, chelseamagazines.com/shop

48 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Capture memories from your child’s birthdays in this album. £29.99, noths.com

BABY FEET CASTING IN BRONZE Cherish the tenderness and size of your newborn with a bespoke lifecast sculpture of her feet, available in bronze, glass and sterling silver. wrightsonandplatt.com

BABY

Yours to keep

Hold on to every important landmark and special memory of your beloved child with these beautiful baby keepsake gifts

VERA WANG INFINITY BABY PIGGY BANK Teach baby to save for a rainy day with this silver-plated money box. £60, wedgwood.co.uk

BABY BANGLE LEATHER MEMORY CASE This gorgeous fabric trunk – complete with personalised luggage tag – can be filled with all sorts of treasures.

From £130, meminio.com

FINGERPRINT CHARM NECKLACE Engrave baby’s fingerprint and date of birth on this stunning pendant.

From £165, philippaherbert.co.uk

BABY BOOK: SO LOVED Record details from your little one’s life in this book, including her birth, family details and more. £30, kikki-k.com

IMPRINT KIT FRAME This adorable picture and imprint of baby’s hand or foot makes a great addition to any nursery. £22, mamasandpapas.com

This engravable gold-plated bracelet is a charming gift for newborn boys and girls. £79, littlestarjewellery.com

ALL THE THINGS I WISH FOR YOU Customise the story and images in this sweet personalised book. £18.99, papier.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 49

Maternity fashion for pregnancy & beyond

SALE UP TO

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SE R A PHINE.COM @SeraphineMater nity

*Online & in store while stocks last. Selected lines only.

STYLE

SUPPORTING ACT

Bravado’s Ballet Nursing Bra, ideal for light support when lounging and sleeping, will be available in a new shade come February. Launching in Antique White, the petal-soft bra features modal-lined pullaway cups, no back closure for ultimate comfort and a pretty lace trim. Other shades include black, nude and pink. bravadodesigns.com

maternity fashion WE CAN BE HEROES It’s not just kids that need superheroes. Scamp & Dude’s new super scarves for adults have the same ethos as the kids’ line: to give the wearer strength. For each scarf sold, one will be donated to a woman in need, whether she’s battling a lifethreatening illness or caring for a sick child. Super scarves are available in monochrome and khaki shades. £28, scampanddude.com

A modern-day changing bag should fit sea lessl to o r ever a l e as if it were there pre-baby. BabaBing’s Mani does just that; featuring plenty of pockets for parenting essentials – from insulated bottle holders to pouches for wipes – you can carry it as a tote or a backpack. Currently ava lable av a bla o ll be able to buy it in grey from February. £49.99, bababing.com

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

MUM-SIZED After increasing demand from its customers, girls’ clothing brand Outside The Lines has launched a line of twinning styles in women’s sizes. From faux fur coats to Breton tops and pom-pom dresses, these classic pieces aren’t strictly maternity wear, but are roomy enough to accommodate burgeoning bumps. Shop the capsule line on the website now before the main SS19 collection is unveiled.

From £48, outside-the-lines.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 51

STYLE

Faux fur sliders £195, russellandbromley.co.uk

White gold bracelet £595, kiki.co.uk

LOVED UP

Dressing up for date night is one of the best ways to treat yourself, both pre and post baby. Get some going-out-out inspo from this Valentine’s style edit COMPILED BY: CAMILLA RIDLEY-DAY

Becksöndergaard bag £52, irisfashion.co.uk Tassel earrings £10, accessorize.com

MAKE YOUR WAIST THE FOCUS FOR A FLATTERING DATE NIGHT LOOK; EMPHASISE WITH A BELT OR A SHORT PEPLUM JACKET AND FINISH THE OUTFIT WITH SOME STATEMENT ACCESSORIES

Maternity shirt dress £49, topshop.com

The Duchess of Sussex wowed tastemakers at The British Fashion Awards by dressing her bump in an understated one-shoulder Givenchy dress in black Valentino scarf £170 , net-a-porter.com

Milly dress £535, harveynichols.com Maternity leggings £28, next.co.uk

Leather ballet pumps £149, prettyballerinas.co.uk

52 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Chenille embroidered cardigan £79.99, zara.com

Faux fur embellished jacket £329, tedbaker.com

STYLE Satin blazer £275, reiss.com

Printed tie jumpsuit £179, whistles.co.uk Sea NY shirt £340, harveynichols.com

Sequin wrap dress £455, rixo.co.uk

Pleated print dress £48, next.co.uk

New mum Vogue Williams hits the town with husband Spencer Matthews in a fabulous full-length tiered gown

Ganni pouch bag £213, modesens.com

Yosi Samra sandals £101.70, shopbop.com

WHETHER ROMANCING INVOLVES PAINTING THE TOWN RED OR RELAXING TOGETHER AT HOME, LOOK TO SILKS FOR AN EVENING FEEL, OR LUXURIOUS CASHMERE WHICH CAN BE DRESSED UP OR DOWN

Zimmermann dress £1,350, harrods.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES; REX.

Suede courts £120, boden.co.uk

Needle & Thread jacket £260, selfridges.com

Vince skirt £260, harrods.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 53

RUNNING HEAD

54 | baby-magazine.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

A nanny travels with the family to ve five- ear-ol r s a e stab l t

Danes supreme ALTHOUGH Claire Danes TU R N S H ER HAN D TO A DIVER SE SELEC TION OF ROLE S, NON E AR E MOR E IM PORTANT TO TH E ON E SH E FU LFIL S AS MOTH ER TO H ER T WO BOYS, VIOLE T WILDER DISCOVER S t perhaps goes against common convention, but actress Claire Danes believes the arrival of children has brought about a period of clarity and, dare we say it, calm, to her life. Married to fellow actor Hugh Dancy, the effortlessly romantic couple welcomed a second son into the world in August 2018 – a clan that, with five-year-old big brother Cyrus, is now four-strong.

Her apparent contentment may be best looked at in comparison to what was something of an unconventional upbringing. The actress has been in therapy since the age of six, something she claims is “a helpful tool and a luxury to self-reflect and get some insight”, and revealed in an interview that her first kiss was on-screen as a 14 year old, with Jared Leto (who was 21 at the time) in teen drama My So-Called Life.

Thereafter, with a filmography that switched between Shakespeare (Romeo + Juliet), the classics (Les Misérables),

I

action thrillers (Terminator 3) and romantic comedies (Shopgirl), things began to settle in 2011 when Danes clinched the lead role in Homeland, the Showtime network drama.

“It certainly has been the role that changed my career,” she begins, “although I’m relieved to say there isn’t too much of me in Carrie! We’re two very different types of women, and since Cyrus came along I’ve been pretty good at learning how to leave my job at the door every time I come home.

“I think the harder part for me is arriving on set every morning and having to summon the kind of energy and intensity that Carrie needs, and to keep on doing that throughout the day and the overall shooting schedule; but it’s an incredible role and brilliant series.

“And I guess a good thing about doing TV is that because you’re working so fast you often don’t have enough time to torment yourself about how you’re going to say particular

baby-magazine.co.uk | 55

I’VE LEARNED THAT CHILDREN ARE VERY RESILIENT IN WAYS THAT YOU’D NEVER EXPECT line or worry over how the scene went. There’s no time for agonising over your work, and that, for an actor, is a blessing!” she smiles.

The actress, who has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and whose philanthropic engagements include work with women in Afghanistan, as well as donor awareness initiatives in the US, accepts that the conflict of professional and family life is present, though it is something Danes and her husband have always sought to minimise.

That’s perhaps easier said than done when considering Homeland, for one, has been filmed in diverse locations including Cape Town, Tel Aviv, and Berlin. But shooting season six in the Big Apple, where she has lived for many years, certainly made life easier, even if Cyrus, the couple’s first son, appears to enjoy the cut and thrust of having celebrity parents.

“He’s used to travelling with us,” she

56 | baby-magazine.co.uk

continues. “His passport’s full of stamps and he’s always been very happy everywhere his mum and dad have been. We have a nanny who has been following us everywhere and gives him some stability instead of having different babysitters, but he’s such a good kid.

“I’ve learned that children are very resilient in ways you’d never expect – for instance, he’s adapted to the constant travel and living in places like Berlin where he even learnt some German. He would say, “nein” instead of “no” when I’d try to put him to sleep! So I experienced a kind of double frustration as a mother whose kid not only doesn’t want to listen to you but is also doing that in a foreign language!” she laughs.

The latest addition to the family arrived at the end of August. The couple have been intentionally private about their second child – another boy – even though in the course of

her pregnancy with baby number two, Danes was embracing life… and compression socks.

“I’ve come out a couple of times talking about how good these things are when it comes to travelling,” she says. “Obviously when flying they’re vitally important to minimise the risk of clots, but I’ve got used to them very quickly.

They’re a job to put on when pregnant, but surprisingly comfortable after that,” she says, perhaps inadvertently aligning her next big endorsement deal!

“It’s certainly true that the second time around things are a lot more relaxed. You don’t fret about small things and you’re able to rationalise events because you’ve been through that experience.”

The family also have a helping hand from Cyrus who, under the guidance of “the classic English parent”, as Danes labels husband Hugh Dancy, is flourishing in his responsibilities.

“Cyrus is a big help already, and always says ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ – his manners are impeccable. Hugh and I are both in agreement on things like that as we are on virtually everything else. That’s why we chose to be together - it’s not just luck. And even though we come from different countries, our families are pretty similar.”

Although the actress will always step outside her bubble when it comes to standing up for what she believes in – she’s an outspoken feminist who has frequently been critical of female underrepresentation within Hollywood – you get the impression family now firmly comes first.

“It’s a joy every day to see how your children grow. I think particularly with Cyrus, however, we’ll think we’ve figured out the right way of bringing him up, but he keeps evolving and we have to start all over again!

“I know that’s no different to any other parent,” she laughs, “and you wouldn’t want it any other way – it’s a story that unfolds in front of you, better than any film script.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL BROCHSTEIN/ZUMA WIRE/ALAMY LIVE NEWS; SPLASHNEWS.COM; SHUTTERSTOCK; MEDIAPUNCH INC/ALAMY LIVE NEWS

Claire has played the role of Carrie Mathison in Showtime drama Homeland since 2011

RUNNING HEAD

Claire and husband Hugh Dancy are on the same page when it comes to how they raise their sons

baby-magazine.co.uk | 57

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BABY TALK

t’s almost 10 o’clock.

I creep into our bedroom, silently change out of my Sunday clothes and into a wafty cotton nightie.

I brush my teeth swiftly, hoping for minimal audio disruption. I slip into my side of the bed and gently lay the duvet over me.

I pull Vogue on top of me and begin to work through its pages.

The rustle is too loud, so I give up.

I mindlessly look at my phone for a minute or two before thinking, ‘Come on! Sleep is better than this.’ Turning off the soft rose glaze of the lamp beside me, I nestle in, cradle the velvety-soft hand of my bed mate into my own and go to sleep.

This bed mate, the one I tip-toe around is not the one I married, it’s the one I birthed: Noah. My husband and I said a quick ‘goodnight, love you’ to each other earlier on, before he retreated to the sanctuary of the spare room, where he has a better chance of a solid, uninterrupted eight hours before he gets up at 5.30am for work.

We’re co-sleeping. It sounds odd to say that. I never use the term itself, because in a way, we never meant for things to end up like this. I thought co-sleeping

THE GOOD STUFF

I

Two British brands combine with pretty sterling results: this chemical-free oil is helping my crepey belly regain its former strength. Tiba + Marl x Honest Soothing Body and Bath Oil, £28, tibiandmarl.com

DIARY OF A MUM part 7

A mere 26 weeks after she was born, we’ve vowed to complete Noah’s nursery, starting with this retro café-style message board spelling out ‘Noah’s room’.

Sweet, but not sickly.

Design Letters A4 Message Board, £22, alexandalexa.com

After our endless summer, I can now delight in baby winterwear, eschewing frankly pointless coats for those under 12 months in favour of snuggly pram suits, like this pretty floral number.

Padded Pram Suit, £36, monsoon.co.uk

IN Joanna Ellner’s L ATE ST IN STALM ENT, SH E AN D BABY N OAH AR E FIN DING TH E CO -SLEEPING HABIT HAR D TO BR E AK was for the hemp-shoe-wearingbreastfeed-till-they’re-in-primaryschool mums. I didn’t realise so many people – like us - just sort of… fell into it. Noah never

took to the Snüzpod that we fastened up to my side of the bed. After quickly noting that she dozed off back to sleep in lightning speed when she was next to the warmth of my body, versus just one foot away in her cosy-but-nevertheless-inanimate sleep pod, I began to place her in the middle of us at bedtime from around six weeks old. A few weeks later, Ed had claimed the sofa bed in the spare room as his own, having wisely purchased a mattress topper to make regular inhabitancy more acceptable to his each and every vertebra.

And here we are. Almost six months later. I know (because I’m

told incessantly by other mothers) that we have a mountain to climb in undoing this nocturnal intertwinement, but here’s the thing: it’s totally and utterly lovely to have Noah by my side. Yes, she somehow takes up more space than Ed or I, outstretched in the centre of our super-king bed.

Yes, I now automatically wake up to check on her every couple of hours, rendering my own sleep quality that of a 1980s Hacienda raver, but there’s simply nothing better than cupping my arm around her little body and resting it onto the small of her back as I silently soothe her back to sleep at 3am. I feel more wistful about

the prospect of co-sleeping ending than I do the conclusion of breastfeeding, such is the closeness it’s built.

But no marriage could or should survive separate bedrooms. This is what the nonco-sleepers have over us. They don’t need to stitch intimacy back into the fabric of their lives.

So from tomorrow, a change is afoot. I’m attempting the whole sleep training thing. We’re going all in with her own room, the removal of sleep aids (bye bye, dummie) and something approaching ‘crying it out’.

Though, who’ll be doing most of the crying remains to be seen.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 59

TOT GEAR

TRADITIONAL PAIRING Landing in stores this January, we’re loving Mamas & Papas latest collaboration. Sharing northern roots, British apparel brand Abraham Moon & Sons join forces with the company to create a new-look Ocarro pushchair, alongside footmuffs, blankets, changing bags and more.

With truly timeless designs, the line celebrates the best of Yorkshire design, quality and heritage. From £899, mamasandpapas.com

tot gear

NEWS

TITAN TRAVELS Car-seat giant Maxi-Cosi welcomes its latest addition – the Titan Pro. Seeing you from nine months up to 12 years, it combines high security standards with practical features: the GrowSafe headrest adjusts to fit your child as they grow, while the innovative, crash-absorbing G-CELL tech in the side panels also ensure improved side-impact protection. £250, mothercare.com

COOL AN D CLEVER BABY KIT FOR N EW FAMILY LIFE

Inspired by the impending arrival of The royal baby this spring, Cheeky Rascals is excited to launch the luxury Mima Xari pushchair in a brand-new colour.

Introducing champagne: a striking, metallic gold, set to arrive early this year.

Perfectly combining luxury with functionality, the futuristic pushchairs are lightweight and compact, making them easy to assemble and manoeuvre. £1,139, cheekyrascals.co.uk

CUTE AND CUDL’Y Parenting brand Nuna has ventured into the world of baby carrying with the Cudl.

With pre-sale from January, it’s a great investment, seeing you from newborn to large toddler without the need for any inserts. Boasting four carry positions, its magnetic buckles make for an easy attachment, and the adjustable padded straps and belt provide a comfy carry too. £150, nuna.eu

AMERICAN BRAND BECO BABY, HAS EXPANDED ITS BABY CARRYING RANGE, LAUNCHING THE BECO GEMINI (RRP £99.50) AND BECO 8 (RRP £125.00), WHICH BOTH COMBINE COMFORT AND STYLE FOR PARENTING LIFE. BECOBABYCARRIER.CO.UK

60 | baby-magazine.co.uk

REVIEW

THE REVIEW

FIR ST-TIM E MUM , Sophie Lee AN D BABY Florence PUT TH E POPU L AR EGG STROLLER TH ROUGH ITS PACE S

A

s this is our first baby, we were really conscious of making the right choice when it came to Florence’s pushchair.

After many trips to different retailers, we opted for the stylish Egg.

GOOD LOOKING? Definitely! Both the carrycot and seat shape are designed to mimic that of an egg, with smart curves. I’ve not had it long and there have already been lots of compliments! The leatherette handle and embossed logo make it look like a luxury travel system.

lore e fi r

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVEABILITY The Egg’s extremely user friendly. The carrycot is lightweight and clicks in and out easily, while the hood also doubles up as a handle, so you can lift a sleeping baby without disturbance.

The pushchair collapses easily and fits inside a good-sized boot, but with the carrycot as well it can be a snug fit. However, the front two wheels of the frame are removable if necessary. The handlebar can be adjusted with just a twist, and there’s also a great shopping basket. Not only is it comfortable for Florence, it’s also lovely to push – even one-handed, which I imagine is a real bonus if you’re holding on to a sibling’s hand!

The brake’s super easy to use and you don’t end up hurting your feet as it’s a simple click down to put the brake on, and click down again to release it. There’s a compartment at the foot of the chair for storing the raincover,

s t eas to ta e a a the

h le

The Egg make for easy strolling – even one-handed if necessary

which is easy to put on when needed. My only small niggle is the handle scrapes on the floor whenever the frame is collapsed, so it’s impossible not to scuff the middle of it.

The stroller also has a reat sho bas et at the base

COMFORT

We’re yet to try out the pushchair seat as we’ve been using the Sophie says the Egg’s smart carrycot, but so far there curved design has garnered have been no complaints. many compliments while My three-month-old out and about daughter seems extremely comfortable and has often fallen asleep in it, especially during the newborn days.

We have used the carrycot overnight while staying at my parents’ so she has slept in it on a couple of occasions, too.

Safe for overnight sleeping it basically doubles up as a

travel cot for these early days and is a decent size so she’ll fit in it for quite some time; a bonus when your car’s packed full of baby equipment whenever you leave the house!

I’m looking forward to using the seat as we also bought the fleece liner, which feels so soft and luxurious.

THE VERDICT I absolutely love it and would highly recommend! The Egg suits our needs perfectly; it’s a luxe pushchair that’s functional and looks the part. It’s easy to use, comfortable, stylish and a real eye-catcher!

Egg from £769, eggstroller.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 61

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PARTIES Embroidered hearts and shades of red and pink will look adorable on your little darling

Bubbles (pack of eight) £2.99, partypieces.co.uk

DECOR

Sweet details for a loving look

2

Rose plant £25, bloomandwild.com

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Velvet pillow £6, flyingtiger.com

Paper fans (pack of three) £6.99 each, partypieces.co.uk

VALENTINE’S

W

ho better to spend this celebration of love with, than your closest family and friends? Whether you’re hosting a mini get-together at home or planning a quiet weekend in with your little one filled with fun activities, take this time to enjoy the company of those closest to you.

Planning a party? Get into the spirit with some loveinspired décor. Valentine’s is synonymous with red and pink, but you might like to try something more contemporary, such as a monochrome palette with pops of red. Balloons, paper fans, pom-poms and heart-shaped confetti are all fun ways to brighten up your space, as are faux or fresh red roses.

For a yummy Valentine’s treat that both kids and adults will love, get creative with a cookie decorating station. Have some ready-made heart-shaped bakes to hand, and some pastry bags filled with red, pink and white icing. You could even include some clear cellophane bags and ribbon, so little ones can give them as gifts. Card-making is another fun activity that toddlers and adults will love.

Be sure to get in plenty of paper, stickers and glitter pens!

5

1. Cotton sleepsuit £34, petit-bateau.co.uk 2. Ketiketa cardigan £80, smallable.com 3. Hoot dress £35, alexandalexa.com 4. Woven dungarees £28, boden.co.uk 5. Easy Peasy shoes £36, alexandalexa.com 6. Leather T-bar shoes £22, bobux.co.uk

with Carole Middleton

Plan some Valentine’s Day fun for your little one this February, and get the whole family involved

4

6

PARTIES

Ceder’s non-alcoholic gin £16, sainsburys.co.uk

Foil balloon £4.99, partypieces.co.uk

Counteract the effects of all those sweet treats by allowing little ones to burn off some energy with games. Put a Valentine’s Day spin on classics such as a heartballoon relay race or a heart-shaped hopscotch game.

Paper plates (pack of 12) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

Helium balloon £1.29, partypieces.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

64 | baby-magazine.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

BEHIND THE BRAND

MERCI MAMAN NATALIE KEELER M EE TS Béatrice de Montille, FOU N DER OF JEWELLERY COM PANY M ERCI MAMAN TO TALK ABOUT BUSIN E SS, MOTH ER HOOD AN D ROYAL CUSTOM ER S

baby-magazine.co.uk | 65

PROFILE

here’s a wonderful buzz of anticipation in the air as I arrive at Merci Maman’s pop-up shop on a bright Tuesday morning. Based on Redchurch Street in Shoreditch, the store opened for business just a couple of hours ago, and people are already lining up for a piece of the action; I even have difficulty getting through the front door.

“This is the first pop-up we’ve ever done,” explains Béatrice de Montille, who founded the brand just over 10 years ago. “We’ve always liked that face-to-face contact with customers, especially during peak shopping periods like Christmas,” she tells me. “I think it’s becoming a trend now for online brands to provide customers with a concrete experience in pop-up shops like this. People are looking for authenticity – they want to know who’s behind the business they’re buying from.”

The French-born entrepreneur established her hand-engraved jewellery brand back in 2007, crafting the first Merci Maman bracelet while sat at her kitchen table. Over a decade on and Béatrice’s team has expanded to 43 employees; she has workshops in France, Germany and London, and has even garnered royal approval from the Duchess of Cambridge, who has been spotted wearing a Merci Maman necklace engraved with Prince George’s name.

The story began when Béatrice returned to work following the birth of her second child, as marketing manager at food production brand Del Monte. She wanted to work more flexible hours so she could be there for her children, but when she was told this wouldn’t be possible, she decided to resign.

“I was inspired by a friend who had started her own baby clothes company, and I was amazed to see what she’d managed to achieve in such a short space of time. That was what gave me the confidence to start developing my own business idea.”

Following its online launch in 2008, Merci

T

Béatrice is a hands-on maman to her four young children: Martin, Chloe, Roman and Garance

66 | baby-magazine.co.uk

I’M NOT JUST HERE TO MAKE BUSINESS; I’M HERE BECAUSE I LOVE BEING A MOTHER Maman – which translates to ‘thank you mummy’ – is now solely focused on creating intricate, hand-engraved jewellery for mothers, particularly new mums, using its signature cursive French-style handwriting and beautiful orange packaging to create a truly original gift-giving experience. As well as bracelets, bangles and necklaces, the brand also specialises in earrings, cufflinks, collar stiffeners and children’s accessories.

The brand has since established a workshop in Fulham, too, as well as Paris and in March 2018, Berlin. “This meant we could not only be close to our customers, but also influencers and journalists who liked the brand,” Béatrice explains. “Plus, it was important to align ourselves with the culture and yearly calendar; Mother’s Day, for instance, falls at different times of year depending on which country you’re in.”

As mother to four children, the founder also pays a lot of attention to the individual experiences people have when shopping with Merci Maman. “I’ve always put a lot of effort into my customers, because I know what I expect as a customer myself. I’ve personally had some really bad experiences with certain brands, and that’s been a real learning curve in

terms of what not to do!”

It’s undoubtedly this ethos that got Béatrice through what she calls the “Kate peak”, when the Duchess of Cambridge was sighted wearing a Merci Maman necklace in 2013. Business rocketed; the brand sold as many products in two weeks as it normally would at Christmas, and yet, quality was never compromised: “We put so much energy into ensuring we’d deliver the same customer service in the aftermath of all that publicity as we always had. And I honestly think that’s been one of our biggest successes, as we really made the best of those circumstances.”

Few businesses could wish for a better ambassador than Kate, but the Duchess isn’t the only member of the royal family to give their stamp of approval. 2017 also saw Merci Maman win The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category, and the founder was even invited to meet Her Royal Highness at Buckingham Palace.

“We actually got the chance to speak to her for a few minutes, then later at the cocktail reception, a lady could hear my husband and I speaking in French and exclaimed ‘ah, you’re the French people! The Queen just told me all about you’. And we could hardly believe it,

PROFILE

INSERT NAME HERE...

Merci Maman won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade in 2017

The brand has been creating hand-engraved jewellery since 2007 As worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Catherine Duchess necklace, from £119 Merci Maman now has 43 employees and studios in London, Paris and Berlin

that the Queen had been actively listening to us and was sharing our story with others. It was incredible.”

Despite all her success, Béatrice tells me she prefers to stay humble, crediting much of the brand’s accomplishments to the whole team.

“We have 43 people working for Merci Maman now, and it’s thanks to all these people that the business has been a success; it’s not only my work.”

“When I look back and see what we’ve achieved over the last 10 years, what makes me proud is obviously all the jewellery we’ve made, but also seeing our team members moving and growing within the company.”

The evidence is clear; Merci Maman is unquestionably a warm, collaborative business be involved with, as Béatrice emphasises: “it’s really important to take good care of the people who work for you, because you never know what tomorrow will bring.” She’s also established flexible working hours for team members, following the difficulties she faced with her previous employers.

“I’m very happy to see the team growing, even if it is challenging!” she laughs.

“Sometimes I put too much emotion into it, but I can’t be a mother of 43 people. My job is to offer guidance, give directions, listen and make decisions, but I’m still very involved in the product creation and brand image.”

Béatrice’s husband, Arnaud, has also been a key player in Merci Maman since 2013. “I always say it took me nine months to decide to marry my husband, but three years to decide to work

with him! Arnaud used to work in the city and now handles the financial side of the business.

We’ve now been working together for five years and it’s really paid off. I honestly don’t think we would have got the company to the level it is now without him.”

Their four children, Martin, Chloe, Roman and Garance, have also taken part in photo shoots and marketing videos for the brand.

“It’s nice for them to really understand what we’re working on while they’re at school, and they love giving their opinions on samples,” Béatrice says. “That said, Martin wants to be a diplomat when he grows up and Chloe would like to be a midwife, so I’m not sure it will be a family business in 20 years’ time!”

So, what’s next for Merci Maman? Besides developing new products and partnerships, the founder is currently focusing her efforts on developing the new Spanish and Italian websites, which launched at the end of 2018.

Should these be successful, the brand could open workshops in Spain or Italy next year, but “that’s not in the pipeline right now – they’re just dreams for the future,” Béatrice says.

Otherwise, you’ll still find her at the school gates every weekday afternoon. “I’ve always put my family first, and I think that’s where the authenticity of Merci Maman comes from. I’m not just here to make business; I’m here because I love being a mother and looking after my children. That’s something you should never have to compromise on, and it makes me so happy that our customers recognise that.”

Hammered open bangle, from £69

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This delicate chain with engraved disc charm makes a sweet Mother’s Day gift Pastille chain bracelet, from £59

baby-magazine.co.uk | 67

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HEALTH

THE ROYAL TREATMENT

As birthplace to all three of Prince William and Kate’s offspring, it comes as no surprise that the Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Hospital will now be offering parents-to-be a new maternity concierge service. An assigned assistant will take care of all your needs, from catering and transport to wellness and translation services, even creating a home-from-home in the hospital, right down to your bed linen choice.

From £250, imperialprivatehealthcare.co.uk

It’s never too early to start your little one’s oral care regime, and Bickiepegs’ Finger Toothbrush & Gum Massager will get your tot into a routine. The double-sided s l o e br sh fits over o r e fi er so you can softly clean her teeth, while the dimpled side offers soothing relief for delicate gums. bickiepegs.com

health & beauty

NEWS

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

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Baby deserves only the very best for her skin, which is why we’re loving Odylique’s new and improved range for little ones aged four months and over.

Great for soothing and protecting both normal and sensitive skin, the collection of gentle wash and shampoo, repair lotion and soothing salve contains the finest organic plant oils and no artificial additives, with extracts of soothing aloe vera, chamomile and extra virgin olive oil. odylique.co.uk

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK Are you and baby in need of a touch of winter TLC? With indulgent foaming bath oils and luxury fragranced candles, Truly – a new lifestyle brand launched by designer Tara Capp and entrepreneur Peter Jones – has just the solution.

Truly’s extensive collection also includes a gorgeous knitwear selection, as well as sleep bags, swaddles, towels, muslins and more, all made from super-soft materials that are gentle on babies’ sensitive skin. truly.co.uk

UP TO 17 PER CENT OF CHILDREN COULD HAVE SYMPTOMS CONSISTENT WITH FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER (FASD), ACCORDING TO NEW RESEARCH BY UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL AND CARDIFF UNIVERSITY. THE STUDY FOUND THAT THOSE AFFECTED COULD NOW HAVE LEARNING AND BEHAVIOUR DIFFICULTIES, AS WELL AS PHYSICAL ABNORMALITIES.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 69

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Choose your colour pink or blue

RUNNING HEAD

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

I fell pregnant quickly the first time but am struggling to conceive again. Could it be secondary infertility?

I

t’s not uncommon when you’ve tried for a first baby and got pregnant really quickly, to then struggle to conceive your second and third. This is known as secondary infertility, and many women don’t ever expect this to happen because pregnancy occurred so quickly and so spontaneously the first time.

It’s one of the things I’m often asked about and is far from uncommon. There are key areas that I look at when a woman’s struggling to conceive the second time around:

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

AGE

SEX You absolutely have to have more sex to get pregnant a second time, usually at least three times a week. Many women aren’t having enough sex because they’re exhausted from juggling looking after a toddler with work, and they just don’t have the energy for it.

bit of you time is vital. When you ask a couple about their lifestyle when they’re struggling to conceive the second or third time around, very often the woman has gone back to work, there’s a baby in the bed, they’re not sleeping, not having enough sex, and they’re exhausted.

You need energy to conceive.

NUTRITION AND DIET

SUPPLEMENTS

Many mums, especially if they’re working, aren’t getting all the nutrients they need to create a baby. Looking at diet is important, as this can impact egg quality. When you’ve had a baby, all of the energy goes into her, your partner, your house, and you have less time to focus on diet, sleep, exercise and just having a bit of head space. Again, you need to look after yourself. Look at key areas in your life, and try and draw back some energy or manage your time so you can ed nourish yourself properly.

I’m a huge believer in supplements. Alongside a healthy diet, multi-vitamins and minerals, such as omega 3 and folate, provide key nutrients to prepare your body for getting pregnant.

Age and how long you’ve been trying are key to understanding your fertility status the second time around. Many women that are getting pregnant later in life are keen to try for a second baby quite quickly and the first thing I often see is a panic about the age gap between children. Many women start worrying that their second child Recommend won’t be in the right school year, product or won’t be born at a certain time of year. You’ve got to stop putting these hurdles up for yourself. A positive mindset is hugely important Vitafem capsules for conception. £22.50, zitawest.com

EXHAUSTION If you’re a working mum, you’re exhausted by the time the weekend comes, so catching up on your sleep and having a

UNDERLYING MEDICAL ISSUES Sometimes when you’ve had your first baby, there can be underlying medical factors that you haven’t taken into account. Very often it can be a thyroid, it can be that you’re anaemic.

You may need to lose weight. Your hormones might not be as balanced as they were the first time around. It’s good to seek help and get checked, especially if you’re older.

Happily, many women who struggle the second time do get pregnant naturally but for those of you that are older, it’s about working within a timeframe, and vitally, setting a time when you’ll seek more assistance.

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

baby-magazine.co.uk | 71

CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER HOSPITAL CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER HOSPITAL

The Kensington Wing The Kensington Wing Private Maternity Unit Private Maternity Unit At the Kensington Wing you will be in the hands of Wing experienced At the Kensington you will obstetricians andofmidwives, all be in the hands experienced dedicated to ensuring you receive obstetricians and midwives, all the best possible care. you receive dedicated to ensuring the best possible care.

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BREASTFEEDING

The Breastfeeding Café with

PROFESSOR AMY BROWN

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

MY BABY’S EIGHT MONTHS OLD AND I WANT TO WEAN HER OFF THE BREAST. WHAT’S THE BEST APPROACH TO TAKE?

M

aking the decision about when to stop breastfeeding is a personal one.

It’s natural to have mixed feelings, even if you feel ready. But there are some ways to make the process simpler.

Make sure you drop feeds slowly, so your body adapts to making less milk. As a general rule, replace one feed and see how you feel for two to three days, before dropping another one. Some women get very engorged just by dropping one feed, while others find they can progress quicker. Don’t rush and take your time.

Consider whether you’re going to completely stop breastfeeding or whether you might just cut back at first. Particularly if returning to work, some women find that their baby’s fine to have solid foods and formula in the day, but still likes to breastfeed before bed or first thing in the morning.

Work out how you’ll cut down on feeds.

Some babies will refuse a bottle because they associate you with breastfeeding. However, remember breastfeeding is more than just milk – it’s about closeness too. The temptation can be to stay away from your baby so they

BEABA baby milk warmer £30, boots.com

Feeding scarf £18, mamalicious.com

have to take milk in another way. But this can be challenging for baby, as it takes away the cuddly reassurance that comes with feeding.

Balance is key – think of ways to maintain that closeness. Skin to skin is wonderful however you feed. You can still cuddle baby to sleep and wear her in a sling.

Some women feel a little low after they stop breastfeeding. This may be due to hormone levels changing, or you might be ready but still have mixed emotions. This is perfectly normal. Be kind to yourself. If you want to talk about these feelings remember you can contact a breastfeeding organisation – they’re not just there to support women who continue breastfeeding, and can offer advice and emotional support at any stage. If you’re not feeling better in a few weeks, talk to your health visitor.

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

First cups (pack of four) £6.99, babycup.com

WhyStarting Solids Matter £4.99, pinterandmartin.com

FORMULA FACTS • If you stop breastfeeding, your baby will need formula milk instead until they’re 12 months old. They all have the same main ingredients by law, so there’s little difference in content, despite price differences. Choose a firststage formula – it’s designed for babies 0-12 months.

• If your baby hasn’t had a bottle yet, try them with a first ottles sho l be stopped from around 12 months as they can affect jaw evelo e t o a avo having to wean a baby from a bottle it’ll make things easier!

• It’s really important to follow formula instructions.

Some people think it’s the water than needs boiling, but it’s the formula powder that isn’t sterile. The water must hit the formula at over 70°C. • Bottle feed just like you breast e er s all ee s in a similar pattern to how she breastfed, letting her set the pace and decide how h to have

BBHugme nursing pillow £139, kidly.co.uk

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RUNNING HEAD

While recovering from the birth, you should still maintain a level of intimacy with your partner

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LABOUR

Pillow talk

IT’S WH ER E THIS JOU R N EY ALL BEGAN , BUT WHAT ABOUT SE X DU RING AN D AF TER PR EGNAN C Y ? BR E ASTFEEDING CON SU LTANT Louisa Van den Bergh R EVE AL S ALL ex, hmm. Not the easiest topic to tackle, but one that’s relevant. If there’s a history of miscarriage, premature delivery, bleeding or complications in pregnancy, you’ll need to take your doctor’s advice. But for most mums it’s absolutely fine to have sex throughout pregnancy.

However, many report feeling less perky in the bedroom, often starting at the beginning of pregnancy, as exhaustion and sickness sets in and breasts are tender. These earlypregnancy symptoms usually pass by weeks 12 to 14 and this can be a great time to get jiggy.

S

it’ll stop by three to four weeks after birth.

If you’ve had some stitches, wait until they’re out or have dissolved and you feel okay down there. You may be anxious that things won’t be the same, but obstetric physios praise the body’s ability to heal quickly. Many wait until after the six-week check with their doctor. For mums who had c-sections, again it’s worth waiting until you’re not in much discomfort.

While you wait, be affectionate with your partner. It can be easy to put all your love into the baby but staying close (physically and emotionally) is so important.

ARE YOU OVERDUE? You may have heard that sex brings on labour?

Although there’s scant research to back this up, there are several reasons why it may help.

Firstly, reaching that ‘magic moment’ might stimulate your uterus into movement.

Secondly, you release a hormone called oxytocin when having sex or your nipples are being stimulated. Oxytocin is the hormone that brings on contractions. If you’re being induced, you’ll often be given a synthetic form of oxytocin to help move things along.

Finally, semen contains a high number of prostaglandins which are chemicals that can help to soften the cervix and bring on labour.

In fact, if you’re induced, you’ll be given some form of prostaglandin to kick things off. You may prefer to try the natural version at home, although you’d have to do it about eight times to match the strength of the medication!

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

SET YOUR OWN PACE Let’s be honest: for most new mums, sex is quite literally the last thing on their minds. The demands of looking after a new baby, coupled with lack of sleep, is definitely not going to get you in the mood. Throw in a few stitches and sex can seem pretty terrifying. You do have a stay of execution: it’s important that you wait until you stop bleeding – often it’ll stop and start so hold off until it’s fully stopped. This is because your womb’s still healing, and you don’t want to risk infection. For most mums,

NO MORE PUTTING IT OFF The day, however, will come when you just have to do it. Maybe it will happen

breastfeeding with no top-ups of formula, solids or expressing (expressing doesn’t stimulate you as efficiently as your baby does). In addition, your baby must be less than six months old and you must have not had a period. Very few mums actually fit this tight criteria so almost all are at risk of falling pregnant while breastfeeding.

WORTH KNOWING If you’re breastfeeding, the hormone prolactin can lower your libido and can make you a bit drier down there so you may find it helpful to engage in lots of foreplay or lube up. There, I said it. And I think it’s fairly obvious that rushing into rough penetrative sex is hardly the way to go. One thing though, if you’re breastfeeding and you reach orgasm, be

IF YOU’RE BREASTFEEDING AND YOU REACH ORGASM, BE PREPARED FOR YOUR BREASTS TO LEAK! spontaneously and you end up having amazing sex on the kitchen table while your baby is napping upstairs… or, more likely, you’ll realise three months have passed and you really can’t put it off any longer.

prepared for your breasts to leak! It’s all down to wonderful oxytocin again. It not only makes your womb contract, but also facilitates the let down of your milk. That unsexy nursing bra and breast pads may have to stay on after all.

BUT BE PRUDENT

SQUEEZE AND HOLD

Unless you’re actually planning Irish twins (two babies born within 12 months), it’s a good idea to put some thought into how to avoid getting pregnant immediately after you’ve just had a baby. In fact, it’s often the first thing your doctor or midwife will talk to you about once your baby has been born. If you’ve had a c-section, it’s generally advised to wait a year before getting pregnant again. This is to allow the scars (particularly the internal incision on your womb) time to really heal.

The tale of breastfeeding being a natural contraceptive isn’t entirely true. It’s 98 per cent effective but only if you’re exclusively

Whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery or a c-section, it’s worth remembering to do your pelvic floor exercises. Pregnancy and birth puts a huge strain on these muscles which hold up your bladder, bowel and womb, and control bladder function; but that’s not all, they also affect your vaginal muscles. Basically, sex is better if your pelvic floor muscles are in good shape. All the more reason to invest in a clever little Elvie device (elvie.com) which you insert discreetly for five minutes a day. With iPhone to hand, the app will guide you on your progress: say goodbye to stress incontinence and hello to amazing sex...

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PARENTING

TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

BACK TO WORK

This issue, the sisters discuss returning to work after maternity leave

f all the challenges motherhood throws at you, guilt is possibly the hardest to deal with. And the guilt that comes with being a working mother is often harder than any professional task.

Motherhood changes women profoundly; the ambition and love of a challenge they took for granted are tested in a way they never anticipated. Many mothers have to return to work, but for most, working makes them happy, balanced and fulfilled – and the biggest winner in the scenario is the baby.

It’s important to spend time and money on getting your childcare right. Start thinking about what will work best about three to four months before you go back – nursery, childminder, nanny or nanny share? And spend as much as you can afford – think of the money as an investment in your children.

Persuade your employer that flexible working hours will work for both of you.

Many mothers will only consider returning to their job with a degree of flexibility – either

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

O

working from home part time, or three or four days a week. Employees have the right to apply for flexible working once they return from maternity leave. While it doesn’t have to be accepted, any application must be seriously considered and there has to be a business justification for any refusal. Don’t be shy of bigging yourself up, and make sure you outline how you’ll manage your workload with your proposed hours. If you can show that what you’re proposing will work, then it’ll be difficult for your employer to say no.

Take a focused look at your week and all the things you’re doing and prioritise the most important. Remember you simply cannot do it all! Use technology to speed things up (Ocado or Amazon) and outsource anything you can (ironing, cleaning). And remember, even if it’s

just an hour a week, leave time for yourself.

There’s no such thing as the perfect mother – so focus on doing the best you can. You could set up a Whatsapp group with your nanny and your partner and ask her to send photos and videos of your child during the day. When you’re together, savour every precious moment. Switch the mobile off and give your child your full attention; an hour of quality time is worth more than five hours of distracted time.

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

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SHOPPING

THE REVIEW AS TH E LONG NIGHTS CONTIN U E, Laura Mason PUTS TH E VERY BE ST NIGHTLIGHTS TO TH E TE ST

Best for CALMING

Best for THERMOMETER

Best for

DISCREET

The Infantino nightlight projects stars on to the nursery ceiling

Best for PROJECTION

Best for SOUND

LUMIE

Bedbug Known for making products that counteract seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Lumie’s children’s nightlight similarly focuses on the use of a low blue LED light to create a sense of calm around bedtime.

Endorsed by sleep experts, the sunset, reading and nightlight modes gently help your child settle down for a soothing sleep. £59.95, selfridges.com

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SKIP HOP

GROEGG

INFANTINO

MEEMOOBABY

This cute light plays nursery songs and mimics nature sounds, heartbeats and white noise. This is really helpful in getting babies to fall and stay asleep, as it masks sounds that may wake them. The timer and continuous functions also ensure no night-time disturbances. £40, kidly.co.uk

This dual-purpose nightlight doubles up as a room thermometer that provides a clear visual to help parents to monitor temperatures and adjust baby’s clothing or bedding accordingly. Using a colour-coding system, the light shines red when too warm; blue when too cold, and amber at the recommended 16-20°C. £29.99, gro-store.com

This nightlight can be used as a standard lamp, or for a more animated sensory experience, it can project a beautiful array of coloured stars on the ceiling. Combined with the melodies, it’s a mesmerising piece that will captivate restless babies that struggle to fall asleep naturally. £19.99, argos.co.uk

be a standalone light, yet also comes complete with a Meeclip that attaches to your clothing to provide a soft, warm glow in three different light levels.

This makes it perfect for nursing mothers feeding in the night, and those midnight nappy changes where you just need a little discreet light. £44.99, cheekyrascals.co.uk

Moonlight & Melodies Projector

Soothing Light Meelight & Projector This handy product can

SHOPPING The charming owl-character Skip Hop Moonlight & Melodies Projector masks the sounds that wake baby up

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MICKLEFIELD SCHOOL 10 Somers Rd Reigate RH2 9DU 01737 224212

Open Morning March 9th 10am - 12noon

Open Morning: Friday, 1 February 2019 Head’s Welcome at 9.30am ea e emai o e ar i e

hoo o u

Built on Tradition – Embracing the Future

Co-Educational Independent Preparatory School Rising 3s - 11 Years T: 01737 224212 E: admissions@micklefieldschool.co.uk www.micklefieldschool.co.uk Toddler Group 2pm - 3pm term time only

Open Mornings

2019

Monday 11 March Tuesday 7 May Monday 10 June 9.30 - 11.00am

Tumbling Toddlers

Fridays 2 – 3.00pm 11, 18, 25 January 1, 8, 15 February To book please contact mobrien @tormeadschool.org.uk

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www.tormeadschool.org.uk Tormead School, Cranley Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2JD

JUNIOR SCHOOL

o re i ter

@Tormead_JS Registered Charity No: 312057

GROWNUP GAMES

Spark your little one’s imagination with Ella James’ new children’s interiors collection. The latest range comprises a playful mixture of prams and kitchens, plus a luxury wooden baby gym with eight sensory toys, helping her to learn handto-eye coordination. For older tots, the toy tool bench makes a wonderful gift for the nursery, complete with a vice, jigsaw, chalkboard and six-piece tool kit. ellajames.co.uk

interior

NEWS

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

DREAM WEAVER Add a flourish of Frida Kahlo-inspired Mexicana to the nursery with The Basket Room’s vibrant SS19 collection. Created in collaboration with illustrator Jacqueline Colley, these colourful embroidered basket designs are ideal for tidying away toys in the nursery, available in three different sizes and embellished with a range of colourful motifs, including rainbows, llamas, pineapples and watermelon slices. thebasketroom.com

MAKE YOUR BED If you love the iconic Tripp Trapp as much as we do, prepare to go crazy for the new Tripp Trapp Ash, now available for a limited time only. What’s brilliant about this design is the swirled-marble effect and varied colour palette of ash-tree wood, with unique patterns ensuring that each highchair’s one of a kind. Complete the look with cosy cushion accessories for maximum comfort. £204, stokke.com

For luxury linens that are super soft to the touch, check out Hibou Home’s latest collection of children’s bedding, all designed with 100 per cent organic cotton. Inspired by the brand’s bestselling wallpapers, the new sets come in four gorgeous styles, including sparkling stars, delicate florals, royal crowns and Scandi forest scenes, with a sophisticated palette of blush pink, indigo blue, soft grey and aqua. hibouhome.com

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INTERIORS

FEELING FUZZY Interiors guru Ali Howard shares her top tips and product picks for creating a cosy nursery space for your baby

T

he chilliest days inspire the cosiest nurseries. Keep baby snug and warm by introducing layers of comforting textures and you’ll create a space that’s instantly calming, too. Think faux fur, chunky knits and the softest accessories to cuddle up and snuggle down in. A neutral colour palette inspired by nature’s hues will bring the outside in, while protecting your little one from the real elements. Up the toastiness even further with a helping paw from some funky furry friends so that baby can hibernate style.

Winter, do your worst…

A Moses bedding set refreshes your basket while adding a level of cosiness, too Moses basket bedding set (four piece) £125, camomile.london

TIP: Lighting’s all-important when it comes to creating a cosy atmosphere in the nursery. This dreamy pendant is made from natural goose feathers, emanating diffused light and giving your baby’s bedroom a warming glow.

Eos light, from £199, umage.com

Soft toy rattle, £16, bonordic.co.uk

Felt rug, £65, hurnandhurn.com

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TIP: Created from the softest wool felt, this modern Moses basket not only keeps baby toasty by blocking out winter chills, it also encourages sleep by eliminating noise. In the perfect cocoon made from natural fibres, they’ll be snug as a bug!

WoolNest, £99.95, en.mokee.eu

Pompom blanket, £29.99, zarahome.com

The Bonnie Mob blanket, £55, kidly.co.uk

INTERIORS Bloomingville cushion, £29, kidly.co.uk

Liewood hooded towel, £35, themodernnursery.com

TIP: Leopard print is everywhere this season so why not the nursery? Snuggle up for a bedtime story in the most stylish way with a child-sized fur throw and cushion set that’s made for blissful snoozing.

Faux fur comforter and cushion set, £189, limelace.co.uk

Konges Sløjd mobile, £36, bonordic.co.uk

Mini Rodini cushion cover, £60, themodernnursery.com Unisex sleeping bag, £69, petit-bateau.co.uk

Takeshi Sawada chair, £230, houzz.co.uk Bring the magic of the great outdoors in with these enchanting wall stickers Winter branch with stars wall sticker, £32, kokokids.com

Felt slippers, £26.95, scp.co.uk

Sheepskin rug, £75, loaf.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 83

The magazine for everyone who loves beautiful gardens

SUBSCRIBE TODAY Inside every issue: l The loveliest gardens

in the land l Expert planting advice and inspiration l Beautiful borders and imaginative ideas

Glorious gardens Explore gardens that embody the quintessential ‘English’ style

Inspiring design We reveal the latest trends and provide helpful guidance

Plant expertise Discover the best plant varieties and how to grow them

Subscribe today and receive: l FREE delivery to your home l Big SAVINGS off the

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"The English Garden is a constant reminder of the beauty of English gardens, and keeps alive the passion that all gardeners feel for the plants and flowers that do so well in our temperate climate."

– Alan Titchmarsh MBE

TO ORDER

www.chelseamagazines.com/CTEGP108 USA & Canada 800-998-0807 (quote code K1804UK) Rest of the World +44 (0) 1858 438 854 (quote code CTEGP108)

FOOD

FIT THE SPILL If your babe’s the messy type, the new bib range from Tidy Tot allows them to be inquisitive about food without getting it all over themselves.

The new long-length coverall bib is one of the longest on the market, with a large crumb catcher, unique side opening and water-resistant fabric. The new disposable coverall bib is great for when you’re travelling, too; made from recyclable materials, simply throw away once used. tidytot.co.uk

food

SUCH A SMOOTHIE

TUM TUM YUMS

Foodie families are sure to love the cleverly designed feeding products from family business Tum Tum. Bringing excitement to dinner time, each piece is designed to encourage little ones to feed themselves independently. Top products include its bear face plate, ergonomic cutlery, and sippy cups. The bundles make great gifts, too. tumtumtots.com

Premium baby food brand Little Freddie has launched a range of smoothies with 30 per cent less sugar than its competitors. Made from the finest organic ingredients and with a focus on ‘real’ flavours, the range consists of two blends; Mighty Mango, made with mango, passionfruit and coconut milk, and Strawberry Smash, a strawberries and raspberries combo. They make delicious snacks for parents, too… £4 for a four-pack, ocado.com

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

Renowned children’s food expert Annabel Karmel has launched a new recipe bundle on her app to help curb picky eating.

The Annabel Karmel food app encompasses hundreds of recipes for both baby and toddler, with the Fussy Eaters category adding another 50, from delicious dinners to lunchbox pleasers and tasty snacks. £1.99 for Fussy Eating bundle, apple.com/itunes

ORAL HEALTH EXPERT BICKIEPEGS IS RECOMMENDING THAT BABIES OF WEANING AGE HAVE THEIR TEETH AND GUMS BRUSHED MORE THAN TWICE A DAY, ESPECIALLY IF THEY’RE ENJOYING SWEET TREATS. A BABY SHOULD HAVE ALREADY VISITED A DENTIST AND HAVE A GOOD ORAL CARE REGIME IN PLACE BEFORE THEIR FIRST BIRTHDAY. BICKIEPEGS.COM

baby-magazine.co.uk | 85

FOOD

Family

FEAST

IN FANT N UTRITIONIST SPECIALIST Alice Fotheringham SUGGE STS SOM E IR R E SISTIBLE TR E ATS FOR TH E WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY S W E E T P O TAT O R O U N D S W I T H G U AC A M O L E Preparation: 25 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes Makes 12 bites Suitable from 6 months without the nut and seed topping

These irresistible sweet potato rounds are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside and so easy to make.

INGREDIENTS

• 300g sweet potatoes • 2 teaspoons olive oil • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika seasoning • Topping option: avocado, pistachio & sesame • 1 tbsp coriander seeds • 200g raw pistachios hulled • 100g sesame seeds • ½ tsp smoked paprika • 1 tsp sea salt • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper • 3 ripe avocados pitted • Squeeze of lemon juice • Seeds of about ½ pomegranate (optional) METHOD

Preheat your oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.

Slice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch rounds.

Place rounds on a lined roasting pan or rimmed cookie sheet.

Brush each sweet potato slice with oil and

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sprinkle with paprika and pepper. Flip slices over and repeat. Roast sweet potato slices for 10-15 minutes. Remove the pan and carefully flip the rounds with a fork or spatula. Return to the oven and cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until golden and caramelised. Serve rounds plain or with your favourite toppings.

To make the pistachio and sesame seed topping. Toast the coriander seeds in a dry frying pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they start to pop. Once they become fragrant and begin to pop, transfer to a mortar and pestle and let them cool.

Meanwhile, roast the pistachios in same pan for about 5-6 minutes over medium heat.

Remove from heat and transfer to a cutting board to chop finely. Now toast the sesame seeds for about 2-3 minutes until golden.

Grind the coriander seeds in the mortar and pestle and then transfer to a small bowl. Add the chopped pistachios and toasted sesame seeds. Add salt, pepper and smoked paprika and mix to combine.

To assemble, dice the avocados and place in a bowl. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning. Mash lightly with a fork, keeping some chunks for texture. Once the sweet potato slices have baked, top each with a dollop of the avocado mixture. Add a few pomegranate seeds on each bite, and then top with a generous portion of the pistachio and sesame sprinkle. Serve immediately.

FOOD

With creamy avocado, crispy sweet potato and juicy pomegranate seeds, these rounds o er a reat bala e o avo r

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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 W I T H Q U I N OA A N D OAT S Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 15 minutes Serves 4 Suitable for freezing and great to make ice-lollies INGREDIENTS

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

Combining fruit, vegetables and grains, this hearty purée is well-rounded nutritionally

METHOD

Rinse the quinoa in cold water, then add to a pan with 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 to get to the required consistency.

C H E R RY C H O C O L AT E T H U M B P R I N T C O O K I E S Preparation: 25 minutes Cooking: 18 minutes Makes 45 cookies Suitable from 1 year INGREDIENTS

• 250 g unsalted butter (softened) • 200 g granulated sugar • 1 medium egg • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 280g plain flour • 60g cocoa powder • ½ tsp salt • Cherry chocolate ganache: • 200g dark chocolate (min 70% cocoa) • 4 tbsp double cream • 60g frozen cherries, 15 cut in half, the others chopped finely METHOD

Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add an egg and vanilla extract and mix again. Add flour, cocoa and salt, and mix until all the ingredients are just combined.

Line the baking tray with baking paper. Roll balls of dough, a little less than 1 tbsp each, and place on a baking tray leaving 3-4cm space between each cookie. Using your thumb (or a back of measuring spoon or spatula), make an indent into each cookie. Once you have used up all the dough, place cookies in the fridge for at least 40 minutes.

Heat the oven to 180C/160C Fan. Remove cookies from the fridge and place in the middle shelf in the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, If the indents lost their shape or puffed up, use your thumb or the back of the spoon to make the indents again. Allow the cookies to cool for about 10 minutes and transfer to a wire rack.

Fill a small saucepan about a quarter full of hot water, then sit a bowl on top, so it rests on the rim of the pan, not touching the water. Add the cream, chocolate and cherries into the bowl, and allow them to melt slowly, stirring from time to time, until combined together. Spoon the ganache into each cookie, and top with half a cherry.

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

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Here We Play Happily

Come along and join in our activities in a welcoming and toddler friendly environment with other parents and carers.

All children under 5 welcome.

Rowan Toddler Group Friday afternoons during term time from 1.45pm-3.15pm £2.50 per session

For further information, please contact Mrs Drake: 01372 462627 Rowan Brae 41 Gordon Road, Claygate, Esher Surrey KT10 0PJ rowanprepschool.co.uk

“Conclusive proof that all-girls education from an early age can be simply brilliant.”

The Good Schools Guide 2018

The Study is a leading prep school situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village.

We identify and nurture each girl’s unique academic, creative and sporting skills in a caring and supportive community.

For further details and to book a school visit, contact Jane Davis on 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Registered Charity No. 271012

We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+. New bursary available for entry into Year 1 in September 2019.

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

baby-magazine.co.uk | 89

NEXT ISSUE

IN THE MARCH ISSUE OF

The ultimate Mother’s Day gift wish list How to city break with a baby on board, where to go and how to make the most of your trip Is it colic? We offer hope and reassurance to parents whose babies won’t stop crying We round up the best baby bouncers On the download... the parenting apps worth having

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The White Company

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PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD BURNS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Sebastian wears cotton body, £25, Noa Noa Miniature at AlexandAlexa.

Merino dungarees, £39, La Coqueta Kids. Merino bonnet, £39, La Coqueta Kids. Cotton-mix socks (set of four), £60, Tartine et Chocolat.

PARADISE FOUND

The Baglioni Resort is the latest luxury destination to land in the Maldives.

Set to open in March on the island of Maagu, the five-star hotel will bring Italian hospitality, elegant design and tropical luxury. There will be 96 villas, with garden, beach or over-water options. There’s also a kids’ club, range of water sports and a garden spa to enjoy. baglionihotels.com

travel

NEWS

WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW Reima’s new overalls for little ones are perfect for wintry weather, whether at home or on the slopes. The all-in-one is made from a water- and dirt-repellent fabric, with a removable faux furtrimmed hood, a long zip fastening and snap buttons for easy dressing. Available in sizes from nine months to three years, there’s a number of prints to choose from, l bears b r s a s o a es £110, reima.com

VIVA ESENCIA! Set on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Hotel Esencia is about to get even better. Expansion plans include two new duplex penthouse suites, complete with arresting views and a private champagne bar, as well as two master beach suites, each with a private beachfront terrace and plunge pool. The spa menu has a pregnancy massage for babymooners, or if it’s baby’s first holiday, make use of the babysitting service. From $700 per night in a Jungle Room Suite, hotelesencia.com

SNOWED IN Iconic St Moritz hotel Suvretta House is now open for winter.

Nestled on the Upper Engadine Mountains, the resort has 181 rooms, ski-in/ski-out access and its own ski lift. While you hit the slopes, little ones can enjoy the in-house kids’ club or the hotel’s ski school, where they’ll learn how to ski on a gentle incline. Double rooms from £402 per night, suvrettahouse.ch

MARTINHAL, THE AWARD-WINNING LUXURY PORTUGUESE FAMILY HOTEL PORTFOLIO IS OFFERING ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES AT ITS CASCAIS AND SAGRES RESORTS. ALL MEALS, DRINKS AND SNACKS ARE COVERED, AND GUESTS CAN MAKE THE MOST OF THE KIDS’ CLUB SERVICES TOTALLY FREE OF CHARGE TOO. THE OFFER IS AVAILABLE UNTIL 31 MARCH. MARTINHAL.COM

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RUNNING HEAD

POSTCARD FROM

FRANCE

Mar tha Alexander AN D FAMILY H E AD TO COU NTRY KIDS R E SORT IN OC TON arents looking for that holiday sweet spot – where adults can relax in elegant surroundings and children can be completely happy – the answer to this eternal riddle lies on an idyllic farm an hour’s drive west of Montpellier, run by a French husbandand-wife team, Sylvain and Laure, along with warm staff, whose raison d’être is ensuring families have a brilliant time.

We pitched up at Country Kids Resort after a fraught day of cancelled flights and satnav-related passive aggression.

However, the moment we arrived in Chestnut House (each family has its own house or apartment, of which there are seven) all anxieties evaporated. The sight of a welcome hamper bursting with French carbs and a huge bed was more comforting than I can put into words.

Each morning at 9am, a bell rang and Farmer Syl, as he’s known, cajoled everyone on to his tractor’s trailer, and we rumbled over to the barn, where hungry animals waited to be fed. There’s plenty for infant farmers to do here, from collecting eggs and petting rabbits to giving greedy pigs leftovers. Robin even got to ‘drive’ the tractor.

Back at the ranch, children head over to the crèche. Run by a team of friendly nannies, it has a soft-play area, a sleeping room and plenty of toys and books.

Any worries that Robin would be reluctant to leave us were dispelled as she removed both sandals, yelled “see you” and launched herself into the ball

P

Country Kids Resort offers guests both grownup time and family activities

Martha’s personal highlight was the farm’s wine cellar, La Cave

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pit. On that first child-free morning, the parents all sat dumbly, nursing espressos, the freedom not quite sinking in. Then our options opened up. My husband and I had two massages each. We had a sailing lesson on Lac du Salagou. One morning I even had a yoga class on the front lawn.

Of course, there are family activities too. A highlight was Robin’s riding lesson, perched aloft Deesse (“goddess”) a Shetland pony who was wider than she was tall, but surprisingly nifty.

The chef’s cassoulet was heavenly, but the gazpacho was my favourite. And then there’s my spiritual home, the La Cave wine cellar. We opted for the all-in package, meaning everything – including nappies, milk and wine – is included.

Country Kids boasts luxury, but not in a butler-service-and-helipads way. This is the luxury of reading uninterrupted for an hour, or swimming without a child on your back. Or having a glass or two of wine at lunch without feeling like a lush.

I loved it so much that I began to get anxious about leaving. “I can’t go back to real life,” I whined to my husband as I drank an icy beer in the evening sun.

But back to real life I went. And while the memories of Country Kids will last a lifetime, perhaps they won’t have to.

Robin still puts leftovers in the bin and looks at me hopefully: “For the piggies?”

“Next year, darling. Next year.”

Prices from ¤3,950 for a family of four country-kids.fr

Chestnut House was a comfortable home away from home for the Alexander family

Robin enjoyed helping out with duties around the farm

TRAVEL

Love nests BABYMOONS

WH E TH ER YOU ’R E ON A PR E-BABY GE TAWAY OR TR AVELLING WITH YOU R TOT IN TOW, TH E SE E SCAPE S AR E TH E EPITOM E OF ROMANTIC BLISS Seychelles North Island

Sparkling white beaches? Check. Azure waters? Check. Lush palms? Check. Spa treatments for mums-to-be? Check.

This private-island paradise is ideal for expectant parents looking to unwind before their baby arrives. Choose from 11 luxury villas, each of which boasts a private butler service and super-soft maternity pillow. Take a stroll across the tropical plateau before heading to the island’s restaurant for a feast curated by Michelin-starred chef, Farrel Hirsch. Rooms from £5,540 per night; north-island.com

Northern Ireland The Culloden Estate & Spa

The five-star hotel boasts traditional luxury interiors and furnishings

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A home from home – but with breathtaking views of the glorious County Antrim coastline – this traditional five-star resort is nestled on the forested slopes of the Holywood Hills, with original marbled fireplaces, stained-glass windows and mahogany panelling. Revel in a range of ESPA products and lavish couples’ therapies at the premier spa, with specially designed treatments for expectant mothers, too. Despite its location, if you fancy a spot of shopping; take a train from the station at the bottom of the garden, and you’ll be in Belfast city centre in just 15 minutes. Rooms from £125 per person, per night; hastingshotels.com

TRAVEL

Crete Arosmari Village Hotel

After sun, spa and Insta-worthy vistas? This luxe adults-only retreat in the village of Vamos is just a 10-minute drive to the nearest beach.

Here you’ll find 10 enchanting detached and semi-detached cottages, each with access to a beautiful communal garden, as well as a delightful reading room with pool views; the optimum spot for a leisurely lie down. If its cultural activities you’re after, enjoy a romantic supper at the small amphitheatre in the gardens of Arosmari, or learn to whip up a few Cretan delicacies yourself at a local cookery course. Rooms from £854 per person for seven nights; simpsontravel.com

WITH BABY Portugal Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort

Can’t remember the last time you enjoyed a tranquil few hours alone together? This idyllic resort is home to some of the best childcare facilities in Europe, welcoming tots as young as four months old into its crèche, and evening babysitting is available, too. As well as its 280 rooms, the hotel has a golf course, four swimming pools and a beach shuttle service. If you’re looking to splurge, the Presidential Suite has a lavish rooftop whirlpool tub. Now that sounds like our kind of family break... Rooms from £131 per night; anantara.com

France Le Pavillon de la Reine

Where’s more romantic than the city of love? Set back from the beautiful Places des Vosges, this elegant family-owned hotel is surrounded by the capital’s chicest boutiques and restaurants. Despite its location, there’s a country-house feel that’s emphasised by its ivy-covered exterior and grand marble fireplaces. Make the most of its babysitting service and indulge in relaxing spa treatments, or book yourself in for some haute cuisine at the hotel’s new restaurant. Rooms from £286 per night; pavillon-de-la-reine.com

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Boutiques PEPA & CO, LONDON

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

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

TREEHOUSE, SCOTLAND

Run by sisters Kim and Sophie, Treehouse is your one-stop shop for kids, set on the banks of the Water of Leith in Edinburgh. As well as a selection of clothes and gifts, there’s a particular focus on children’s shoes, with knowledgeable staff available to help you find the perfect pair for your little one. They offer a hairdressing service, too; from first haircuts to regular trims, the team will transform the experience into a fun activity with car chairs and DVDs. 10-12 HAMILTON PLACE, EDINBURGH EH3 5AU treehousechildrenswear.co.uk

LUNA & CURIOUS, LONDON

Luna & Curious, the trendy boutique based in East London's Shoreditch, is a treasure trove of goodies, with pieces for baby, mum and the home. Established in 2006, the founding trio have a passion for high-quality, traditional craftsmanship, constantly sourcing new talent from near and far. The store stocks some of our favourite children's brands, including Mabli, Amy & Ivor and What Mother Made.

24-26 CALVERT AVENUE, LONDON E2 7JP lunaandcurious.com

NATURAL BABY SHOWER, SURREY

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

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

TOYVILLE, BRISTOL

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

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

PAPOUELLI, LONDON

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

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

STORES ACROSS LONDON papouelli.com

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Boutiques BIRDKIDS, CORNWALL

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

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

WILD & GORGEOUS, LONDON

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

STORES ACROSS LONDON wildandgorgeous.co.uk

THE LITTLE WHITE COMPANY

The Little White Company’s immaculate stores are a favourite with stylish mamas looking for luxury clothes, bedding and toys that are still practical and affordable. From gorgeous cashmere sweaters to the cutest ballet slippers and pure cotton sleepwear, everything at The Little White Company maintains the simple, elegant aesthetic of the adult collection, but with a touch of childhood magic thrown in, too.

STORES ACROSS THE UK thewhitecompany.com

TOBY TIGER, EAST SUSSEX

If you’re passionate about all things eco, or simply want to try and do your bit to support the planet, Little Green Home’s careful curation of natural and non-toxic essentials for babies, children and parents will help ease your guilty conscience. Every product is tried and tested by the site’s founders, from bottles and muslins to toys and towels, so you can rest assured that each item is truly nurturing, reliable, ethical and safe. littlegreenhome.co.uk

SCANDIBØRN

For those who love the Nordic aesthetic, Scandibørn is the name to know. Launched in 2016, the family-run online retailer stocks a whole host of Scandinavian brands, plenty of which are new and exclusive to the UK market.You can shop for everything from clothing and shoes to nursery furniture and toys, with stand-out pieces from Nordic labels, such as Cam Cam Copenhagen and Ooh Noo. scandiborn.co.uk

ON LIN E

LITTLE GREEN HOME

ON LIN E

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

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

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BUSINESS

The 2.5 tog Winter Sleepsuit Bag is extra cosy for chillier months

The easy-to-use ergoCocoon has a handy dual zipper feature and is made from breathable organic cotton 2.5 tog Cocoon Swaddle + Sleep Bag £39.99, ergopouch.co.uk

INSPIRE How did you launch ergoPouch?

In 2008 I was a super sleepdeprived mum. My first son was a challenged sleeper, waking frequently during day and night.

I designed the first ergoPouch to help him sleep with more comfort and allowing natural movability without getting tangled. It worked, so I wanted to share my product with the world. Today ergoPouch is a market-leading, award-winning brand in Australia and our products are now sold worldwide in the UK, New Zealand, USA, Europe and Asia.

How do you achieve a healthy work-life balance?

It’s tricky, but you have to draw the line, home is home and work is work. I try to follow this as much as I can, but it’s not always possible. I try going for long walks with music and taking some uninterrupted zen time to recharge. It’s important to take time for yourself, as well as family and work commitments.

What’s been your proudest ergoPouch moment so far?

When other babies, and therefore their parents found better sleep.

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ALINA SACK The mum of two and owner of Australian brand ergoPouch talks business, balance and sleeping babies I feel so proud when other mums gave me feedback about how the product worked for them, resulting in more sleep for the family. I needed that to keep developing more products.

In what’s now quite a saturated market, why do you think your brand has been around for more than a decade?

All of our products are made using natural breathable fibres such as organic cotton, bamboo

ergoPouch now offers parents a whole range of sleeping bags and suits

and merino. Our entire range is ergonomically shaped for hip development and has been officially recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as “hip-healthy”, plus our ergoPouch products are tog-rated to suit every temperature and season, and is convertible for multi-functionality. Our products are designed to not only make baby sleep better, but to look good too, with fashion-forward designs and prints.

Do you have a favourite product?

It’s hard to choose one, but I’d have to say the ergoCocoon as it was the first zip- up swaddle in the world. I’m very proud that we pioneered that

design, and the dual zipper was an excellent addition. We often hear from parents who find the Cocoon so easy to use, especially at night and during changing, it’s so simple and yet no one had thought of it before us. Our new sleep bag, the Organic Cotton Jersey Bag, is an introductory piece for babies transitioning out of the ergoCocoon.

What would be your one piece of advice for parents with babies struggling to sleep?

Every phase passes – if they’re still doing the same thing at 18, then you have a problem! Although it doesn’t feel like it at the time, the sleep thing passes and one day you wake up and realise that life has adjusted to your new normal.

Any plans in the pipeline?

So many actually… but it’s not something I can talk about yet for many reasons. However, 2019 is going to be a big year for the brand; not only will our products be providing better quality sleep but also peace of mind too. It’s an exciting time for us. ergopouch.co.uk

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

We believe every child can learn to fly.

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

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

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

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

FINE CASTING & BESPOKE HAND ENGRAVED JEWELLERY Telephone 020 8769 4757 Mobile 07977 477 518 enquiries@philippaherbert.co.uk www.philippaherbert.co.uk philippa_herbert Registered Charity no. 1167073