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Amanda Seyfried talks movies and motherhood
LITTLE EINSTEIN How to boost your child’s brain power
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THE TRUTH ABOUT ZIKA
THE BIG SPLASH! Discover the joys of
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Wave Family planning As all parents know, it’s good to plan ahead. With this thought in mind, we created the Wave – a flexible travel system designed to carry your newborn in comfort and style, yet future-proofed for the arrival of a second baby. All available in one ready-to-go package. So, whatever the plans for your family, visit: Selected nursery specialists nationwide silvercrossbaby.com
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CONTENTS JU LY/AUGUST 2017
Tristan wears cottonblend romper, £42.14, Buho at Smallable
27
46
new knocking Seyfried: (p.56) rk a Amanda p e th od out of motherho
PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY
FEATURES
56 MAMMA MIA! Hollywood actress Amanda Seyfried reveals why motherhood is her biggest but most exciting challenge yet 76 BEHIND THE BRAND: RACHEL RILEY Danielle Wilkins meets the London designer and royal family favourite 81 TOT GEAR Road-testing the Mountain Buggy Duet and the Cybex Sirona 92 BOOST YOUR BABY’S BRAIN POWER The five simple steps you can take to supercharge their cognitive development 96 THE MOTHER OF ALL WORRIES Postnatal anxiety is more common than you might think – here’s how you can beat it 102 THE BIRTH YOU WANT We discover more about the birthing options available to you
108 IN THE SWIM OF THINGS Find out the benefits of taking to the pool with your little one 146 IS YOUR BABY PLUGGED IN? How damaging is screen time for our children – really? Georgina Blaskey investigates
STYLE
46 YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE Summer stripes, fun prints and cool colour; baby’s beach wardrobe is beckoning! 66 BABY BLOOM Take it back to basics with delicate linen and super-soft cotton
SHOPPING
25 BABY LONDON LOVES Your little one is sure to look sartorially sharp in this fruity number from Stella McCartney
87
Snap up these gorgeous baby shower gift ideas
27 SHOP THE THEMES Think ice creams, rainbows, leafy prints and fruits for baby’s nursery 63 SUMMER STYLE Maternity and nursing wardrobe essentials to take you from beach to bar 90 SUMMER BEAUTY KIT What’s new, what works and what to try 116 UNDER CANVAS The best indoor and outdoor teepees to enhance their playtime
FOOD & TRAVEL
119 FOOD NEWS The latest offerings for little diners 120 COOKING WITH MADELEINE SHAW The nutritional coach and foodie shares the recipes she’s been enjoying while pregnant with her first child 124 SUMMER FLAVOURS TO SAVOUR Make the most of the season’s bounty with these family-friendly weaning dishes
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 5
Editor-in-Chief Kate Freud Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Features Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West
138 129 TRAVEL NEWS Prepare to pack your bags! 130 POSTCARD FROM VIETNAM Louise Pyne explores this area of south-east Asia with her two-year-old 132 I DREAMED OF AFRICA Why it’s easier than you might think to explore the beautiful Western Cape with young children 138 BABYMOONS The best retreats to visit for a spot of pre-baby relaxation 140 HOLIDAY HEROES These suitcase essentials will make travelling with baby a breeze
REGULARS
15
35
39 40 42
BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small MY ESSENTIALS We chat motherhood and must-haves with the wonderful Emma Bunton DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Goings-on throughout July and August FOCUS ON: ST JOHN’S WOOD The best spots to shop, learn and play SUNSHINE TALES Book releases perfect for holiday reading
124
Publisher Caroline Scott Finance Director Vicki Gavin Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Chatty Dobson, Ginny Maclean Marketing Executive Catrina Linz
Tom Fletche r gets ador ably honest about father hood (p.8 5)
44 INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION Meet the family behind Nappy Nomad 61 MATERNITY FASHION NEWS Do bump style right – here’s how 85 THE DAD DIARY McFly musician and children’s author Tom Fletcher opens up about life at home 87 PARTY TIME: BABY SHOWERS Carole Middleton shares her advice 89 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS What’s new in the world of wellbeing 95 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert answers your questions 99 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ This issue, we explore how you can boost your milk supply 101 DIARY OF A MUM Spoons at the ready: Martha Alexander shares baby Robin’s weaning journey 104 MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals 107 TIME TO TALK The Bump Class gives the lowdown on Zika 112 THE REVIEW The best baby carriers to try this summer 115 INTERIOR NEWS Stylish updates and inspiring finds 143 EDUCATION NEWS The latest from classrooms and beyond 144 MEET THE HEAD Behind the scenes at St Catherine’s School 149 MINI AGENDA What’s on over the next two months 162 INSPIRE Talking business with Alice Hedley of baby shoe label Amy & Ivor Weaning recipes little ones will love
Head of Market Freddy Halliday Sales Executives Harriet Cottrell, Emma Payne Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby London is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: babylondon.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: babylondon@chelseamagazines.com
Baby London Print ISSN 2040-8552 Online ISSN 2059-982X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2017 All rights reserved
SUBSCRIBE Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive Baby London magazine for a year, delivered straight to your door all for just £18. PLUS we’ll send you a £20 JoJo Maman Bébé gift voucher absolutely FREE! Simply visit:
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PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: MARGOT Margot wears cotton-blend dress and matching bloomers, £67, Hucklebones London.
eco-white
A to match your style
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3 in 1 Bedside Crib
Bringing you closer
Find your SnüzPod colour match at snuz.co.uk
#snuzpod
If you’re looking for some seriously stylish holiday clothes for baby, Boden’s summer range is practical and dreamy From a selection at boden.co.uk Personalised basket £170, raefeather.com
EDITORS
LETTER
Printed kaftan £42, octaviahix.com
KATE FREUD, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
Join me online…
Babylondonmagazine
@Baby_London
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Swim shorts £85, vilebrequin.com
P-TO-DAT
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We’d love to hear what you think about our latest issue
PU
ISIT • E, V
KEE
Sunnylife inflatable £49.88, en.smallable.com
us the lowdown on films and first-time motherhood (p.56) and how apt that ex-Baby Spice Emma Bunton has launched her own baby range, Kit & Kin. She tells us all about it on p.35. And the gorgeous lifestyle guru Madeleine Shaw shares some of the delicious recipes she has been enjoying throughout her first pregnancy (p.120). We’re delighted to welcome our new columnist, the inimitable fertility expert Zita West, who shares all her invaluable advice on p.95. And Becky Dickinson takes a closer look at postnatal anxiety, a surprisingly common phenomenon amongst mothers (p.96). We look at ways to boost your baby’s brain power (p.92) and how much screen time your little one should really be having (p.146). And finally, if you’re reading this without your babe in arms just yet, we’ve rounded up our favourite babymoon escapes (p.138) and Carole Middleton shows you how to throw the perfect baby shower (p.87). Enjoy!
ND
UK
Mini Melissa jelly shoes £52, childrensalon.com
Ah, for the love of summer! From picnics in the park with your little ones to stealing an evening for yourself spent dining al fresco with good company and a glass of chilled rosé in hand, it’s a time to really appreciate all the capital has to offer. But it’s also a time when life as a parent somehow becomes just a little simpler. I love that as the weather warms up it means less layers to put on and peel off with each outdoor adventure. Less clothes to wash. Less time spent in soft-play centres. And more time enjoying the simple things in life: watching your baby feeling the grass between their toes for the first time, tasting their first summer fruits or squealing with delight while sitting in a makeshift washing-up bowl paddling pool in the garden. So, in celebration of this and so much more, we’ve put together a summer diary of outdoor events to enjoy with the whole family (p.149), and cherry-picked the best tropical-inspired fashion for baby to wear (p.46). We also have a comprehensive guide to baby swimming, which many parents are often surprised to hear can be enjoyed from birth (p.108). Hollywood star Amanda Seyfried gives
O N .C O
.
@baby_london
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 9
Where were you born? Guy’s Hospital, Southwark. I was raised in this wonderful city, too. What do you like most about the summer? Being able to wear shorts, travel and those long, lazy evenings. Where are you off to for your next holiday? We’re off on a road trip this summer, driving from the east coast of the USA to the west. Paul discusses the health benefits of baby swimming on p.108
F
EM RE
AN, PHOTOG
LEON IE
PAUL
LAUR Where were you born? Birmingham, West Midlands – born and bred! Best thing about summer? I love the warm weather, it allows us to do so many more activities outdoors as a family. We love going for picnics in the park, and doing farm visits with the children. Where are you going for your summer holiday? The Algarve, for family time by the beach! Laura puts baby carriers to the test on p.112
SON, BABY SW MP I O
NG EXPERT MI
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R
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ON AS
M
AM
CONTRIBUTORS
Where were you born? I was born in Essex, and spent my childhood in Holland. We moved back to the UK in 1989. Best thing about summer? I’m a July baby, so I would say my birthday! Also strawberries, barbecues, paddling in the sea, and cold prosecco on a balmy evening. Where are you off to for your next holiday? We’re off to North Devon, staying in a converted chapel overlooking the beach. Leonie captures our fashion editorial on p.66
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Head online to discover great competitions and giveaways it could be your lucky day!
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Join in We want to see your pics of you and your little ones enjoying Baby London
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10 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
e ce to fac t a f e m o a C Gruffalo e h T h t i w World n o t g n i Chess s Resort e r u t n e of Adv
Look out for promotional packs of Goodies and discover the new Gruffalo River Ride Adventure at Chessington World of Adventures Resort for free!* Plus visit organix.com/gruffalo for your chance to win a monster prize!** © 1999 & TM Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd. *Promotional packs have a cut out voucher giving ONE ADULT OR ONE CHILD free entry with a full priced adult ticket purchased at the attraction entrance until 30.04.18. Advanced bookings and tickets bought online or by phone are excluded. The voucher can also be redeemed at Alton Towers Resort (excluding 4 and 5 November 2017 (inclusive)) and SEA LIFE Bray. **T&C’s apply, see organix.com/gruffalo
BUGABOO CAMELEON3 KITE THE ONE THAT’S INSPIRED BY FREEDOM • • • •
easy-open canopy window unique geometric print lining three-layer muslin blanket handstitched leather-look trim learn more at www.bugaboo.com © Copyright 2017 Bugaboo® International BV
WITH THANKS TO: SIGNATURE MODELS
Larnie
PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEN COPSEY
As you can tell from this adorable snap, Larnie is always laughing and shows an interest in everything, particularly when the camera comes out. She lives with her mum and dad in Canvey Island, Essex. babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 13
More milk for your baby, more time for both of you.
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U PDATING YOU ON ALL THINGS GR E AT AN D SMALL
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NEWS
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.
LITTLE ANGELS
Olivier Baby & Kids has created a special capsule collection to raise funds for FAST UK – the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics. The genetic disorder affects the nervous system, causing severe disabilities. Cashmere rompers and sweaters feature sweet angel wings on the reverse, crafted from Liberty print fabrics. The range is available in sizes newborn to four years, with all proceeds going to the charity. olivierbaby.com
LACK OF SLEEP AFFECTS 91% OF MUMS AND TAKES ITS TOLL ON THREE IN FOUR RELATIONSHIPS, ACCORDING TO A SURVEY BY SLEEP CONSULTANCY SWEET DREAM BABIES. COMMON PROBLEMS INCLUDE BABIES GETTING UPSET WHENEVER A PARENT LEAVES THE ROOM, WITH THOSE AGED SIX TO 12 MONTHS PROVING THE MOST TESTING. SWEETDREAMBABIES.CO.UK
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 15
NEWS
THE BEST OF BRANDS If it’s independent children’s brands you’re after, new online boutique Marshes & Flint is the name to know. With a mix of labels, from local start-ups like Willa & The Bear to cult favourites Aden + Anais, you’ll find clothing, toys and homeware for every mood. The founders also offer a bespoke service, bringing their pop-up to your home for a shopping experience like no other. marshesandflint.co.uk
GIRL POWER Superhero Collective is looking to go global with its new Kickstarter campaign. The online marketplace sells a range of sustainable children’s clothing, toys and décor from brands all founded and run by mothers. If the target is achieved, there are plans to launch the site in Europe, empowering even more women around the world. superhero-collective.com
The sweet baby designs feature wooden buttons and the brand’s signature polka dots
TREND SPOTTING
The new Diddy Dotty designs from children’s favourite Dotty Dungarees are made from pure combed cotton jersey. The range features rompers and dresses with the brand’s signature polka-dot print in adorable shades of pale blue, pink and grey. Sizes start from newborn to 12 months. £30, dottydungarees.com
CLICK FOR ZZZS Pick up everything baby needs for restful slumber at The Baby Sleep Shop. The new online boutique stocks a variety of sleeping bags, muslins and other dreamy nursery décor. You’ll also find expert advice and tips on sleeping and swaddling on the brand’s blog, too. thebabysleepshop.com
NEW RESEARCH BY PARENTING COMMUNITY CHANNEL MUM HAS FOUND THAT ALMOST TWICE AS MANY MOTHERS-TO-BE WANT GIRLS OVER BOYS, WITH A QUARTER FEELING DISAPPOINTED IF THE BABY IS THE OTHER SEX. ON THE OTHER HAND, DADS ARE THREE TIMES MORE LIKELY TO WANT SONS, WITH ONLY ONE IN 10 WISHING FOR A DAUGHTER. CHANNELMUM.COM
16 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
Don’t let your hair spoil this moment Bringing a baby into the world is one of the most exceptional and rewarding events that can change a woman’s life. However many new mums will experience another change, which may not seem related to childbirth at first.
Did you know that 40-50% of new mums experience postpartum hair loss? By using Nourkrin® you can support and maintain the approximately 100,000 hairs you have on your head. Nourkrin® POST PREGNANCY – FOR HAIR MAINTENANCE is a safe and drug-free food supplement developed to maintain natural, beautiful hair for new mums.
Find out how Nourkrin® POST PREGNANCY can help you: www.nourkrin.co.uk Tel: 0845 894 9680
+ Available from good independent Pharmacies and Health Food Shops
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O f fe r i n g 3 c a r r y i n g p o s i t i o n s fo r u l t i m a t e c o m fo r t a n d b o n d i n g bet ween pa rent a nd baby
BIRDS AND THE BEES Answer their questions about pregnancy – even the awkward ones – with new book 9 Months. Written by Babyccino founders Courtney Adamo and Esther van de Paal, it helps children of all ages understand how babies develop, with sweet illustrations and no-nonsense facts. £12.99, Frances Lincoln
A NATURAL PAIRING
SUPERMARKET SWEEP Waitrose has unveiled baby clothing as part of its new line for little ones; charming prints and embroidery feature on babygrows, bloomers and more. The Waitrose Mini collection also includes skincare and laundry items, so you can pick up all you need alongside your regular food shop. From £3, waitrose.com
Mamas & Papas’ new limited edition collection with nursery label Bunny & Clyde is designed to grow with baby, and includes a cot that transforms into a toddler bed, a changer that turns into a dresser and a rocking chair. Handcrafted in solid, sustainable birch wood, the sleek collection has an art deco feel that’s synonymous with Bunny & Clyde’s signature geometric designs. Be sure to get in quick though – there’s only 100 of each item available! From £599, mamasandpapas.com
CARTOON COOL
MILKING IT You’ll notice a distinctive difference about new board book What Does Baby Want? by Japanese design duo Tupera Tupera, which tells the story of a hungry baby and his breastfeeding mother. Perfect for reading aloud to nursing babies and their older siblings. Out 26 June. £8.95, Phaidon
Vans and Peanuts are collaborating again for an upcoming autumn collection that’s sure to put a spring in their step. The range brings back Charles M Shultz’s iconic 60s and 70s characters atop Vans’ classic footwear styles and apparel for men, women and children, with special toddler designs featuring vintage Snoopy and his alteregos. From £32, vans.co.uk
CHILDREN’S TV SERIES IN THE NIGHT GARDEN HAS TEAMED UP WITH THE NSPCC TO OFFER PARENTS SUPPORT ON BONDING WITH BABY AND COPING WITH STRESS. THE DEDICATED WEB PAGE INCLUDES ADVICE AND, LATER THIS SUMMER, A RANGE OF BLANKETS AND CUSHIONS FEATURING THE POPULAR CHARACTERS WILL GO ON SALE FOR CHARITY. NSPCC.ORG.UK
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 19
NEWS
BOX FRESH Mothercare has teamed up with illustrator Clifford Richards to create its very first baby box. The two designs feature Richards’ signature bold graphics, and hide a whole host of newborn essentials, including Water Wipes, crib sheets, muslins and bodysuits, as well as an ultrabreathable foam mattress by Eve. It’ll make a lovely keepsake box once your baby has grown, too. £99, mothercare.com
ALL ABOARD
New from smarTrike this summer is the 5-in-1 Recliner Infinity. The clever stroller grows with your child as they get older, transforming from a stroller to a guided trike, and eventually into a classic independent tricycle. Available in three colours and suitable from 10 months upwards. £129.99, smythstoys.com
BEST OF THE BLOGS
The internet is awash with information but these brilliant bloggers cut to the chase with honest and practical advice Hannah shares her family photography tips, as well as her mum tales
NOT SO MUMSY
A MOTHER’S EDIT
HANNAH ARGYLE
She may live on the other side of the world, but mums everywhere will be able to relate to Marcia Leone’s thoughts on parenting, as well as admiring her most definitely ‘unmumsy’ sense of style. The Sydney-based mother of two set up her blog while on maternity leave, and manages to balance practical posts on mum life with plenty of lustworthy fashion, travel and food. She’s also roped in a variety of fellow mothers and experts to share their perspectives via guest posts. notsomumsy.com
After having her first child, Ashley Wilson started documenting what she was wearing to challenge herself to make more of an effort with her style. Three years on, and having just had her second daughter, A Mother’s Edit has evolved to include musings on family life, beauty, fitness and travel, as well as posts on inspiring fashion trends and picks from the high street. amothersedit.com
Hannah Argyle has many strings to her bow. She’s a mother to two small boys, was a picture framer in a previous life, and now takes commissions as a portrait and family photographer. Her blog, which has become somewhat of an extension of her wildly popular Instagram account, includes tips for budding photographers, including taking pictures of little ones. hannahargyle photography.com
20 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
COMPETITION
WIN!
A PERSONALISED JOOLZ DAY² TAILOR The Day2 Tailor boasts Joolz’s signature luxe fabrics and stylish accents
Y
ou are unique. Your baby is unique. So naturally you want your pushchair to be unique, too. We’ve joined forces with Joolz, the premium pushchair brand that fuses Dutch design with a luxury aesthetic, to offer you the chance to win the pushchair of your dreams. Joolz’s latest creation, the Day² Tailor, is set to hit the UK at the end of 2017, but you could be one of the first to own one. Firstly, choose one of two fabric colours; silver or grey, then your wheel colour, and finally, finish your Joolz with one of 20 colour accents for your handle and bumper bar. With a whole host of new and improved features, the
WORTH £1,119
pushchair offers comfort, style and sustainability together in one design. The super-smooth fold, easyaccess, extra-large shopping basket and adjustable handlebar ensure you’re all set – from those very first strolls with your newborn in the carrycot, to trips to the park in seat mode with a toddler. The Joolz Day² Tailor also comes complete with a matching lightweight nursery bag for all your baby bounty, and a footmuff to keep your little one cosy. So what are you waiting for? Your custom ride is just an online entry away…
To enter, visit babylondon.co.uk/competitions COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 10 AUGUST 2017. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MY-JOOLZ.CO.UK
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 21
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Discover more at aptaclub.co.uk/profutura IMPORTANT NOTICE: Breastfeeding is best for your baby. Aptamil Profutura Follow On milk should only be used as part of a mixed diet and not as a breastmilk substitute before 6 months. Use on the advice of your healthcare professional.
Because our little ones have good taste too. Leading the way with innovative, vegetable-led recipes packed with flavour and nutrition giving your little one only the best start on their foodie journey!
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SHOPPING
LOVES
Tropic like it’s hot: Grab these sweet dungarees from Stella McCartney’s summer collection while you still can
Sartorially sharp If you’re still counting the ways to dress your little one in fashion’s favourite fruit, you can’t go wrong with these adorable pineapple-print dungarees from Stella McCartney. The super-soft organic cotton set will make a totally tropical addition to baby’s summer wardrobe. Cotton dungarees, £62, stellamccartney.com
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 25
From a selection nobodinoz.com
Guimo cotton canvas banner £23, shak-shuka.com
A Little Lovely Company night light £14, decobaby.co.uk
Engel bamboo plate (part of a set) £23, decobaby.co.uk
Emile et Ida cotton T-shirt £25.80, en.smallable.com
SUNDAE’S CHILD Harness this summer’s coolest motif and scoop up these super-sweet ice cream designs. Talk about a sugar rush…
LED light garland £16.95, alittlelovelycompany.nl High chair £199.99, babybjorn.co.uk
Cotton jersey leggings £13, lilcubs.co.uk Cotton sleeping bag from £23.50, gro-store.com
Cotton cardigan £19.95, gap.co.uk
Dapperbaby denim romper £38, lobellaloves.com
Knitted cotton rattle £6.75, bestyears.co.uk
Mini Melissa sandals £40, alexandalexa.com
Lulujo cotton muslin blanket £11.95, potwells.co.uk
Le Toy Van wooden gelato set £20, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 27
SHOPPING Leather moccasins £40, amyandivor.com
Plan Toys wooden stacking tree £15.95, consciouscraft.co.uk
Organic cotton romper £34, palava.co From a selection mariechantal.co.uk Baby Liberta cotton bodysuit £27, milieethector.com
GREEN PARTY
Take inspiration from the natural world with a verdant ale e and flamboyan foliage a ngle o ere Cotton rattle £12, olliella.com
Kalon Studio crib £1,160, nubie.co.uk Rice DK melamine cup £4.99, sistersguild.co.uk
Soft Gallery cotton-blend babygrow £34.95, harrods.com
Limited-edition BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One £134.99, johnlewis.com Mini-A-Ture cotton-blend T-shirt £27, milieethector.com
Fiona Walker faux cactus plant £29, bijoulifestyle.co.uk
Lorena Canals cotton rug £110, cuckooland.com Organic cotton muslin blanket £21, littlebabycompany.com 28 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
Soft Gallery cotton sweater £39.56, en.smallable.com
With over 30 configurations and an integrated ride-on-board, the new British designed and engineered iCandy Orange is packed with innovation. Featuring our trademark elevator adaptors, unique 'cinema' double seating mode and a 64 litre basket, the Orange leads the field whilst still being compact enough to fit through a standard door. Brilliantly flexible, beautifully crafted and absolutely futureproof.
SHOPPING Pom Pom Galore wool garland £16, hurnandhurn.com
RAINBOW BURST
Oeuf NYC wool pillow £77, shak-shuka.com
Let your little one show their stripes in bold prints and a dazzling spectrum of colour
Organic cotton chambray dungarees £24, welovefrugi.com
Organic cotton romper £28.45, thebonniemob.com
Grimm’s wooden puzzle toy £79.95, consciouscraft.uk From a selection boden.co.uk Tobias & The Bear X Mr Men cotton T-shirt £16, tobiasandthebear.com
Bajo wooden abacus £20, lilyandfred.co.uk
Go Everywhere waxed cotton mat £65, avery-row.com
Fly pushchair £279.95, cosatto.com Wool wall hanging £600, luluandnat.com Chloé cotton-blend T-shirt £38.99, en.smallable.com
Bamboo muslin blanket £15, storkandco.co.uk Leather trainers £54, step2wo.com
Knitted cotton sweater £62, stellamccartney.com
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 31
SHOPPING
Konges Sløjd knitted pram toy £23, cissywears.com
Cotton chambray jacket £55, wildandgorgeous.co.uk
Rice DK enamel plate £11, sistersguild.co.uk Leather pram shoes £20, bobux.co.uk Printed dress £12, next.co.uk
From a selection alexandalexa.com
Myum knitted musical toy £42.14, en.smallable.com
TUTTI FRUITTI
Printed romper £39, rachelriley.co.uk
From banana prints to watermelon toys, these erry i ked ie e de ni ely a k a n Knitted cotton rattle £12, roseandrex.com
Wee Gallery stroller cards £12, kidly.co.uk
Organic cotton romper £34, palava.co
3Sixti2 high chair £184.95, cosatto.com
Cotton romper £24.50, boden.co.uk
Tutto Piccolo jelly shoes £19, childrensalon.com 32 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
A Little Lovely Company night light £11.18, en.smallable.com
Woven Kip & Co wool blanket £89, antipodream.co.uk
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INTERVIEW
The presenter has lots of laug hs with her Heart co-host Jamie The akston
MY ESSENTIALS EMMA BUNTON
This year saw the launch of your eco-friendly baby brand, Kit & Kin. Now your two boys are older [Beau is nine, Tate is five], what made you want to delve back into the world of babies? Kit & Kin is something I’ve wanted to do for many years actually. My sons have always suffered with eczema and I hated the fact that I couldn’t make it comfortable for them. I remember telling this to a friend, who introduced me to Chris [Money; Emma’s business partner and Kit & Kin co-founder] – he’s been in the industry for 15 years now. We chatted, and agreed that we wanted to come up with a range of products that were certified natural, hypoallergenic and approved by dermatologists, all the while using sustainable materials and giving back by working with a charity in some way. That was two years ago! Now I love being able to use the products on my children and seeing the difference in them.
The singer turned radio presenter and entrepreneur on motherhood, new work and why she’s feeling broody again Did having children prompt you to start thinking about your impact on the environment? Definitely. Something like using biodegradable nappies or turning the lights off when you leave the room – it all feels so small in the scheme of things, but actually, Emma’s eco range includes skincare for mum and baby
it makes a big difference. As parents, we are all busy. I felt we needed a brand that was safe, affordable, does good and has products that actually work! There are some products in there for mum, too. Did you
have enjoyable pregnancies? I was definitely nervous the whole time, but I did love being pregnant. But then, I’ve always been very maternal. The products we included in the range for mum, such as the stretch mark oil and breast balm, were all products I felt I needed when I was pregnant with my boys. I still use the stretch mark oil every day. So this hasn’t tempted you into having another baby? I’m always broody! I haven’t had much of a chance to think about it lately, as I’ve been so busy with my two – but never say never! One wonders how you might manage it, particularly with your work on Heart radio, your television and UNICEF work, and now Kit & Kin… Like all working mums, it’s a huge balancing act, but I have an amazing partner in Jade. He’s so supportive, and we make it
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 35
INTERVIEW
With Kit & Kin cofounder, Chris Money
Emma loves coming into London for cocktails with her girlfriends
ys talking Girl power: The star says she enjo mates band er form her with od erho moth
So what does a typical day look like for you? I leave very early in the morning every day for my Heart breakfast show – but I know the kids are always listening on their way to school, and my friends too, so I often feel like I’m talking to them over the radio! Then I’ll have various meetings, but I’ll always try to get home to pick the boys up from school, because then we have homework, football or swimming. Family dinnertime is also important to me. Sometimes it’s perfect – other times they’ll just be yelling at me to put the TV on for them!
36 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
What about the weekends? We live in Hertfordshire, and my weekends are usually spent ferrying the kids around. Tate goes to a stage group where he does dance and performance in the mornings, and Beau goes to football. Then there is usually a children’s party of some sort… What about when you manage to carve out some time for yourself; how do you relax? I love coming into London to have cocktails with the girls. And date night with Jade – we still try to do
These nappies will biodegrade within three to six years – standard nappies take up to 500 years Eco nappies £9.99, kitandkin.com
that as much as we can. Jade is a great cook. What’s your favourite thing about being a mother? Cuddles! I also love board games, although my boys aren’t quite as keen. They’re always like, “Mum, not again!” And making dens – Emma has been with her partner, former Damage singer Jade Jones, for 16 years
generally just hanging out with them, being silly and having that downtime. What’s the toughest part? Having that responsibility to shape them into good, wellrounded kids. I’m lucky because they’re really good boys, but I still always hope they’ll grow up to be polite and respectful of the world around them. Do you think you’ll expand the Kit & Kin range down the line? Chris and I would love to expand the range – we felt that this year was the right time to release these products because these are the essentials; the basics that you need. But there will be more products. I’d love to do swaddles and organic clothing, but we don’t want to release anything unless we know it’s the best product on the market – for baby and the environment.
INTERVIEW: DANIELLE WILKINS. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/EMMALEEBUNTON, ISTOCK
work. He does music, so tends to go out gigging or recording in the evenings. We’ve never had a nanny, but we are lucky enough to have my wonderful mum who’s the best babysitter in the world. I love working, but ultimately my kids will take priority. I always try to be home in time for tea, and in time to put them to bed and read them stories.
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LITTLE LONDON AWARDS
Cast your votes…
JULY
Now in its third year, the Little London Awards are back! Don’t miss your chance to vote for your favourite brands in the baby world, and you could win a holiday to the luxury Kurumba family resort in the Maldives. Yes please! littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/awards
1 BABY ON BOARD
Your little one can cruise the capital in style with the latest BuggyBoard Maxi launch from Cheeky Rascals. The limited edition Lascal BuggyBoard features a print of the iconic London skyline, and goes on sale today. £69.99, argos.co.uk
4 BIRD SONG
Flying into the Gro Company’s range today is Ollie the Owl, an adorable sleep aid with built-in cry sensor technology. He plays four soothing sounds; heartbeat, rainfall, white noise and a lullaby. £34.99, mothercare.com
27 FUN & GAMES Today marks the start of six weeks’ of events from family app Toddlepass at the Great Little Trading Co in Wandsworth. Join in the fun with the likes of Amanda’s Action Club, Sing & Sign, Club Petit Pierrot and more. toddlepass.com
dates for your
DIARY
Cheeky Rascals Lascal BuggyBoard £69.99, argos.co.uk
Pens at the ready, we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy for the next two months
29 GET OUT OF TOWN
Make the most of the weekend at baby’s first festival! Family-friendly Camp Bestival will be providing more fun and frolics at Lulworth Castle in Dorset from 27-30 July. Babies under one year go free; adult tickets start from £65. campbestival.net WHAT TO DOWNLOAD
Peanut… it’s free! As lovely as these long summer days are, sometimes motivation runs dry. Peanut is a new app designed to connect a mobile generation of mothers. With functionality much like a dating app, Peanut suggests mothers nearby with similar-aged children, You can chat, create group chats and schedule meet-ups. peanut-app.io
The stylish new SnüzKot makes its debut this August SnüzKot from £349, snuz.co.uk
30 CELEBRATE
FRIENDSHIP DAY
Whether you choose to enjoy a morning with the NCT girls, or a picnic playdate with your little one’s bestie – make sure you surround yourself with your nearest and dearest today, as it’s International Friendship Day!
AUGUST 1 SNÜZ TIME
From the brand that brought you the bedside crib SnüzPod, today sees the launch of the cot bed version – the SnüzKot! From £349, snuz.co.uk
2 GO DISCOVER
Every Wednesday and Saturday this month, the Museum of London Docklands will be running specially adapted Time Tuneller shows for under fives. museumoflondon.org.uk
10 WIN BIG
Today’s your last chance to enter our comps! babylondon. co.uk/competitions
24 DIVE IN
Feeling ready to get back into fitness? Head to Wimbledon Leisure Centre in Merton on Thursday evenings for its women-only Antenatal Water Workout. 9pm, better.org.uk
26 HAVE A TASTE Head for the hills at Alexandra Palace as the Bank Holiday weekend sees the return of the UK’s biggest food festival. Tickets from £16. foodiesfestival.com
31 BEACH BABES
Savour your last chance to enjoy sand between your toes without leaving the capital, at the Royal Docks Urban Beach. londonsroyaldocks.com
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 39
WHERE TO SHOP
The area is famed for being the home of Lord’s Cricket Ground and Abbey Road Studios
FOCUS ON
MASIEL BEBE
ST JOHN’S WOOD
If you’re looking for sweet Spanish clothing for baby, then look no further than this boutique which caters for children up to 10 years old. 56 Abbey Gardens
Discover the best spots to eat, shop, learn and play in this popular north-west London district OUT AND ABOUT ST JOHN’S WOOD CHURCH GROUNDS This park offers a picturesque backdrop for family picnics. It also features a wildlife area and refurbished playground. Wellington Place, NW8 9JA
BACH TO BABY These marvellous concerts at St Mark’s Church will have you and your tot enjoying the
3 House Club
ZSL London Zoo
sweet tunes of classical music. bachtobaby.com
MEET OTHER MUMS 3 HOUSE CLUB This family hub will keep every member of the brood busy. Start your day with mum and baby yoga, take part in a fun educational class, or simply sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee with other mums while the little ones play. 3houseclub.com THE KAILASH CENTRE Looking for a birthing class? The Kailash Centre provides
a variety of alternative health treatments and classes for pregnancy and beyond. kailashcentre.org
GRAB A BITE THE IVY CAFÉ This branch of the popular brasserie opened last year. There’s something for all the family on the menu, from breakfast to afternoon tea. theivycafestjohnswood.com THE SALT HOUSE This friendly pub is a perfect spot for a Sunday roast. salthouseabbeyroad.com
GRIZZLY KIDS
Grizzly Kids specialises in shoes, toys and children’s hair! It’ll have you covered from baby’s first hair cut to their first pair of walking shoes and much more in-between. 77 Abbey Road
NURSERIES AND SCHOOLS: ST JOHN’S WOOD NURSERY, BRIGHTHORIZONS.CO.UK; ST JOHN’S WOOD PRE-PREP, 020 7722 7149, STJOHNSWOODPREP.ORG.UK; TIGERLILLIES PRE-SCHOOL, 020 7998 8323, TIGERLILLIESPRESCHOOL.COM 40 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPHY: MAP DATA ©2017 GOOGLE, ISTOCK
ZSL LONDON ZOO Take a wander to see some of London’s wildlife residents in the flesh, with more than 750 species to visit. Be sure to hang out with the gibbons at the zoo’s latest exhibit. zsl.org
HUGGLE
Shopping for a newborn is a minefield – we all know that. Thankfully, one-stop-shop Huggle is a good place to head for those all-important purchases. It even holds mum and baby classes. 8-10 Winchester Road
• cafe
birthday parties • crèche • • play-area • classes for mothers, babies and toddlers
• after-school classes for 4-8 yrs old 3 House Club, St John’s Wood is the place to meet other parents, join the best classes London can offer for babies & toddlers, learn about parenting and celebrate birthdays! We are OPEN ALL SUMMER!!! Special offer for new clients – Unlimited classes for two weeks for just £55!
3 House Club Bridgeman Street, NW8 7AL • 020 7586 9871 info@3HouseClub.com • www.3HouseClub.com
Sunshine tales MAKE THIS SUMM ER HOLIDAY TH E HAPPIE ST, WITH Emma O’Donovan’S SELEC TION OF BOOKS FOR BABY
THE SAFARI SET
By Madeleine Rogers Set off on a sunny safari and meet the inhabitants of the savannah in this early learning animal adventure. Hippos, zebras, elephants, lions and giraffes are brought to life with a fun rhyming text and bold illustrations. £4.99, Button Books
BOOKS
Yasmeen Ismail brings little readers another delightful story about Kiki and Bobo
A HOME FOR GULLY
By Jo Clegg and Lalalimola Join gull-about-town Gully as he explores the big city looking for a home and ends up finding a family. A touching story about friendship and belonging. £6.99, Oxford University Press
THAT’S NOT MY PLANE… By Fiona Watt and Rachel Wells
Develop sensory and language awareness with this fun addition to a much-loved series. Plane illustrations with a variety of textures will be a holiday hit. £6.99, Usborne Books
BING: EGGY HEADS Join familiar friends Bing and Flop
as they get busy making their very own cressy egg heads. This story is sure to inspire lots of craft activities over the holidays. £5.99, Harper Collins
MAISY’S BUS
By Lucy Cousins Take a trip with Maisy the bus driver and all her friends as they head to the coast, in this bright, engaging board book. £5.99, Walker Books
NOODLE LOVES THE BEACH By Marion Billet
Enjoy a day at the seaside with the adorable Noodle. Digging, splashing and having fun are what holidays are made for in this
tactile tale with a rhyming story. £5.99, Nosy Crow
KIKI AND BOBO’S SUNNY DAY By Yasmeen Ismail
A beautifully witty exploration of feelings featuring confident Kiki and her shy friend Bobo. Will Kiki’s support help Bobo take the plunge and go for a swim? £10.99, Walker Books
ONE HAPPY TIGER By Catherine Rayner
This first counting book for little ones exudes sunshine from every page. Help them learn number skills while falling in love with Tiger along the way. £7.99, Little Tiger Press
LIFT-THE-FLAP AND COLOUR: OCEAN By Alice Bowsher
The perfect opportunity for little ones to start getting creative. The bold and simple line illustrations featuring underwater worlds provide the perfect canvas for toddlers to colour in. £5.99, Francis Lincoln
LOIS LOOKS FOR BOB AT THE PARK
By Min Flyte and Gerry Turley Take a jolly jaunt outdoors, searching under the flaps to help Lois find Bob. This quirky and vibrant book for young explorers is perfect for enjoying together in the garden or the park. £6.99, Nosy Crow
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 43
PROFILE
GET THE LOOK
Cotton romper £12, next.co.uk
Bioderma Photoderm Kid SPF50+ Spray £17.10, feelunique.com
‘Jean’ bikini £68.99, international.triangl.com
Women’s straw hat £8.99, hm.com
INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION
@NAPPY_NOMAD_
Child’s straw hat £9.99, hm.com
Mum Annika shares her travelling journey with husband Felix and baby daughter Lilly via her blog Tell us more about your travel blog, Nappy Nomad. It started when we left to go on an around-the-world trip with our seven-week-old baby. We decided to share our know-how and experiences – good and bad. When did you realise that you wanted to travel? When I got pregnant, our first thought was that a baby would give us less freedom, but when I realised I didn’t necessarily have to work during maternity leave, and my husband was able to work remotely, we thought, why not? Our first stop was Basel, Switzerland. What are your essentials for travelling with a baby? The Doona car seat stroller is a must, a baby sleeping tent, which is a good alternative to a bulky travel cot,
44 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
and a good sunscreen that’s free from octocrylene. More than 5,000 people follow your travels through Instagram, what do you love most about it? I love getting in contact with like-minded people and sharing experiences. We’ve even met some of them in person along the way. And sometimes I enjoy stalking other travelling families… Who do you take inspiration from? @thebucketlistfamliy and @mumpacktravel inspire us to keep going in times of beach-boredom. Favourite place you’ve visited? Mauritius for its beaches, Bali for the hipsters, and New Zealand for quality of life.
Soft Gallery UV protective T-shirt £30.96, en.smallable.com
Doona car seat stroller £299.99, mamasandpapas.com
THE TRUSTED CHOICE IN MATERNITY The Lindo Wing of St Mary’s and Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital Imperial Private Healthcare offers world-class private maternity care, with the added security of 24-hour specialist services in London’s most trusted NHS hospitals. Having your baby with us means that you receive care from your chosen consultant, supported by our specialist team of midwives, throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond. With highly experienced midwives and support staff, private en suite rooms and a nursery run by fully qualified nursery nurses, you can expect the very best personal care throughout your pregnancy journey. All our profits are reinvested to support our NHS services.
The Lindo Wing, St Mary’s Hospital, London, W2 +44 (0) 20 3312 6224 Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital, London, W12 +44 (0) 20 3313 3925/1466 private.healthcare@imperial.nhs.uk | www.imperialprivatehealthcare.co.uk
THIS PAGE: Raegan wears cotton dress, from £12, Next. RIGHT PAGE: Oscar wears cotton jersey vest, £23.22, + 1 In The Family at Smallable. Cotton bloomers with braces, £50.74, Babe & Tess at Smallable. Sunglasses, £60, ZooBug.
You are my
sunshine PHOTOGR APHY: KEN COPSEY ST YLING: Y VADNEY DAVIS
THIS PAGE: Wynter May wears cotton romper, £19.99, Zara. Cotton bodysuit (part of a set), from £11, Marks & Spencer. Cotton cushion, £55.90, Grampa at Smallable. Velour beach towel, £9.50, Marks & Spencer. RIGHT PAGE: Leo wears cotton romper, £80, Caramel. Cotton sun hat, £30.50, Noé + Zoë at Harrods. Cotton beach towel, £12.50, Marks & Spencer. Ice cream soft toy (part of a set), £29.99, Oskar & Ellen at Crafts 4 Kids.
THIS PAGE: Elena wears cotton bodysuit, £12.99, Zara. Cotton blanket, £35, Marks & Spencer. Inflatable, £28, Bando at Selfridges. RIGHT PAGE: Margot wears cotton dress, £18, Marks & Spencer. Cotton cushion, £55.90, Grampa at Smallable. Velour beach towel, £9.50, Marks & Spencer.
THIS PAGE: Elena wears cotton romper, £44, Pepa & Co. Cotton beach towel, £12.50, Marks & Spencer. RIGHT PAGE: Leo wears cotton sweater, £92, Bonpoint. Cotton bloomers, £22, Elfie London. Cotton blanket, £35, Marks & Spencer.
SPECIAL THANKS TO: PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: GEORGIA SHANE. MODELS: ELENA, LEO, MARGOT, OSCAR, RAEGAN, TRISTAN, WYNTER MAY. MODEL AGENCIES: ALPHABET, BRUCE & BROWN, GRACE & GALOR, TINY ANGELS
Cotton sun hat £7, johnlewis.com
Cotton romper £16, mamasandpapas.com Cotton dress £12.99, lindex.com
Sunglasses £3.99, lindex.com
Oscar wears cotton romper, £54.18, Ketiketa. Cotton beach towel, £12.50, Marks & Spencer. Ice cream soft toy (part of a set), £29.99, Oskar & Ellen at Crafts 4 Kids.
Cotton romper £29, petit-bateau.co.uk
Lace dress £6, primark.co.uk
Cotton bodysuit £17.95, gap.co.uk
Cotton dungarees and bodysuit set £15, next.co.uk
Cotton dungarees £20, marksandspencer.com
SHOP THE SHOOT
The high street has picked up on this season’s sweetest shades with aplomb
Gingham dungarees £14.99, zara.com
Cotton dungarees and bodysuit set £18, marksandspencer.com
Cotton dress and bloomers set £30, boden.co.uk
Cotton romper £16, monsoon.co.uk
Cotton chambray shorts £12, mamasandpapas.com
Babiators sunglasses £45, naturalbabyshower.co.uk
COMPILED BY: CHLOE COLLYER
Cotton dungarees and bodysuit set £12, tesco.com
Whe re MAMAS MAMAS meet Wh e re meet
Me et aas Maamas Connect M e et s M mas ,, Co n n ec t as as Wo Women men
INTERVIEW
Seyfried and husband Thomas ados i ma e thei fi st post-baby appearance at the World of Children Awards
mamma mia!
SH E’S STAR R ED IN EVERY THING FROM LES MISÉR ABLES TO MEAN GIRLS, BUT Amanda Seyfried TELL S K AR EN AN N E OVERTON H OW MOTH ER HOOD MAY BE TH E BIGGE ST CHALLENGE OF ALL
“
On the red carpet for the premiere of The Last Word
56 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
’ve been asked what kind of mother I want to be,” chuckles actress Amanda Seyfried, who gave birth to her first child – a daughter – at the end of March. “What a weird question to ask! Does anyone ever sit there and write down the pros and cons of which type of parent they’d like to be? It’s a really odd question.” Notoriously outspoken, candid yet highly personable, the 31-year-old was refreshingly open about what she felt motherhood would stand for in the months leading up to the birth, declaring excitedly: “I’m ready – I’m excited! It’s time. This bun is cooked. I’m ready to get this show on the road, meet the kid, and start our life together. I’m very excited. I’ve been pregnant for 13 months – at least it feels that way.” Understandably less media-friendly in these early days post-birth, Seyfried has revealed few details about her new arrival, but has been
I
seen looking radiant on the red carpet since for Showtime’s upcoming Twin Peaks revival with husband Thomas Sadoski in May. The couple, who married in early March, began dating while working on their latest film The Last Word, but their romance was far from love at first sight. “It’s kind of crazy because we worked together twice last year, and it was like, ‘Well, it didn’t hit first time round, let’s give it another whirl.’ The universe really wants you to be together!” laughs Seyfried. “So we did this crazy, amazing two-man play – The Way We Get By – and got to know each other, and then got to know each other more on the film. He is an amazing, unbelievably talented actor and I may be biased, but I think he’s the best there is. I’m biased, but I’m right!” The couple wed in secret, with Wild star Sadoski revealing all on The Late Late Show with James Corden. Proudly flashing his wedding ring and referring to Seyfried as his
INTERVIEW
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 57
INTERVIEW
The actress has said she’s more than ready to enjoy motherhood now
The pair had their dog, Finn, present at their wedding
58 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
YOU’RE BRINGING A PERSON INTO THE WORLD YOU’RE RESPONSIBLE FOR – IT’S A PRETTY BIG DEAL have been totally against it. A strange blessing.” In the upcoming dramedy, Seyfried plays Anne – a meek obituary writer – whose humdrum existence is suddenly rocked by the tumultuous arrival of Harriet (MacLaine), a controlling, retired businesswoman who demands to be involved in the creation of her own epitaph. A courageous and heart-warming portrait of two women in different phases of their lives, the timid Anne grows fond of the cantankerous older woman who teaches her to live a bolder, fuller life. “The script is all about risk and how enriching life can be if you risk it all. I’ve been asked in the last few days, ‘What would I like written on my tombstone?’ I want, ‘She risked it all’,” reveals Seyfried. Which begs the question: what does the actress consider to be the biggest risk of her life so far? “Well, I’d say motherhood probably takes that honour. It’s probably the biggest
risk I’ll ever take. You’re bringing a person into the world and you’re responsible for their wellbeing, their care, their development,” she says matter-of-factly, before adding with a chuckle: “It’s a pretty big deal!” It seems unlikely that motherhood will alter Seyfried much. She’s long stated that she feels comfortable with herself, refusing to let the odd blemish or bout of bloating ruin her day. In fact, on her post-baby outings she has been joyously make-up-free, wearing a denim and t-shirt combo that would befit any new mum. It’s no secret that this new phase of her life will bring unforeseen challenges, but the star adds how working on The Last Word has inspired her to “jump in feet-first”, adding sagely: “I think I’m getting a little wiser day by day. It comes with age, doesn’t it? It’s a cliché, but the older you get, the wiser you become. There’s no avoiding that one.”
PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES/JON KOPALOFF; GETTY IMAGES/JB LACROIX; GETTY IMAGES/ AMANDA EDWARDS; REX FEATURES; INSTAGRAM/MINGEY
wife, he described how the pair wrote their own vows and had the actress’s pet dog, Finn, bear witness. “We eloped – we just took off into the country with an officiant, just the two of us, and we did our thing,” he said. The romance may have blossomed quickly, but that doesn’t mean the marriage was hasty. Seyfried is wise beyond her years, having started modelling aged 11, acting professionally at 17, starring in numerous popular US soap operas. In 2004 she made her film debut in Mean Girls as the dimwitted ‘plastic’ Karen Smith. Thanks to the film’s blockbuster success, Seyfried’s career blossomed, landing her roles in the screen adaptations of ABBA musical Mamma Mia! and the epic Les Misérables. But for all her success, motherhood was never far from the Pennsylvania native’s mind, saying in 2015: “I keep feeling like my eggs are dying off. I need to get on it… I want a child, badly. I want to be a mother, badly. That’s what I feel. I’ve been feeling it for two years. I’m not ready, but nobody’s ready. It changes everything… so how can you ever be ready for that?” Perhaps this explains Seyfried’s relative eagerness having found the right partner in Sadoski, with their co-star in The Last Word, 82-year-old legend Shirley MacLaine, joking that ‘they got pregnant’ on the set. “I think she said she was nearly there for the conception,” says Seyfried with a broad smile. “Which would have been weird. Although I wouldn’t
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STYLE
SHAPE SHIFTERS
Heading off somewhere exotic this summer? It’s the perfect excuse to invest in some new swimwear to accommodate that bump. First stop, Seraphine, whose swimwear collection has it covered; one-pieces, tankinis and bikinis featuring adjustable straps, built-in bust support and adjustable waistbands give you fantastic shape, no matter what stage of pregnancy you’re at. From £35, seraphine.com
FULL SUPPORT Bravado Designs’ award-winning bras have a new limited-edition colourway to unveil; the Body Silk Seamless Yoga Nursing Bra is now available in subtle ‘Dove Heather’. The popular design features convertible straps and drop-away cups, as well as patented technology to support low impact activity like yoga or Pilates. £30, johnlewis.com
maternity fashion
NEWS NAIL TH E ART OF ST YLING YOU R BUM P WITH TH E SE CHIC FIN DS
There’s no need to go down the traditional changing bag route with Kaos’s stylish designs
BABY GOT BACK Kaos’s new changing bags are every bit as stylish as they are practical. The Weekender is inspired by old army bags; made from green canvas and nude leather, and it can be split into three compartments for optimal organisation. Plus, the brand’s signature Ransel bag now comes in grey. From £133.39, itskaos.com
STYLISH SMALLS Six is out to prove that maternity underwear can be just as beautiful as your pre-baby lingerie. Made using French lace and Italian jersey, each piece from its debut collection has the functionality required to support your evolving figure, including pullaside cups for easy nursing access. Available at Selfridges and Nine In The Mirror. From £27, six-studio.com
babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 61
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ADPRGRANGEP 06-02-17E 3
With iron which contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue, plus biotin to help maintain normal skin & hair.
From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores & www.pregnacare.com
The ONLY vitamin company to receive The Queen’s Award For Innovation in PREGNANCY CARE
1. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. 2. Based on a survey of 1000 midwives. 3. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol.18, No.5, 487-489 (1999). 4. A beneficial effect can be obtained from a maternal daily intake of 200mg DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg DHA / EPA for adults – Annex of Commission Regulations (EU) No. 440/2011. *UK’s No.1 pregnancy supplement brand. Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Unit Sales 52 w/e 3 December 2016
STYLE
SUMMER STYLE
Get ready to escape London’s unreliable temperatures with the ultimate holiday wardrobe – think bold prints, easy-breezy cover-ups and a statement beach bag
Gucci sunglasses £229, stylebop.com
Printed kaftan £135, harperscout.com Beaded earrings £38, jcrew.com
Serena Williams Cotton-blend maxi dress £425, bymalenebirger.com
Printed cami £39, hush-uk.com
Stretch denim jeans £55, seraphine.com
Beaded clutch £85, reiss.com
DRIFT SEAMLESSLY FROM BEACH TO BOARDWALK IN A LIGHT COTTON MAXI DRESS. AN EMPIRE LINE WILL FLATTER YOUR BUMP AND KEEP YOU COOL
Floral-print dress £45, marksandspencer.com Miu Miu espadrilles £425, mytheresa.com
Aranáz beach basket £210, selfridges.com
Six lace-detail bra £75 and matching briefs £32, nineinthemirror.com
Maternity swimsuit £36, topshop.com
Mes Demoiselles shirt £105, beachflamingo.com babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 63
Sergio Rossi leather wedges £409, stylebop.com
Straw hat £17, stories.com
Whole organic French wool blanket £30.10, en.smallable.com
Melissa Odabash ruched swimsuit £200, net-a-porter.com
POST-BABY, OOZE GLAMOUR EFFORTLESSLY IN FLATTERING RETRO SWIMWEAR SHAPES AND EASY-TO-WEAR KIMONOS
Metallic leather bag £129, mintvelvet.co.uk
Cotton kimono dress £195, neveandnoor.com Carven crêpe shorts £239, mytheresa.com
Kourtney Kardashian
Leather passport cover £55, aspinaloflondon.com
Chantelle nursing bra £39 and matching briefs £26, selfridges.com
Linen kaftan £69, jigsaw-online.com Gas Bijoux charm bracelet £109, stylebop.com
Palmer Harding linen shirt dress £318, matchesfashion.com 64 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
Goya leather sandals £235, matchesfashion.com
COMPILED BY: CAMILLA RIDLEY-DAY. PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES
Sunglasses £16, topshop.com
RUNNING HEAD
2017
Have you voted yet? êêêê ê
FIVE STAR R E S OR T
Vote today for your chance to WIN a luxury family holiday in the Maldives A destination in itself, the stunning Kurumba Maldives was the first private island resort in the Maldives. Just 10 minutes by speedboat from the airport and Malé, the resort draws on its proud history and dedicated service to offer families a compelling experience amid a cosmopolitan island setting, with a variety of accommodation options and a diverse choice of restaurants and bars. Young explorers can also make the most of the Majaa Kids’ Club, which offers a varied programme of events for little ones.
Fun in the sun: Kurumba Maldives is a slice of bliss for beach-loving families
Enter now at littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/awards TERMS & CONDITIONS: PRIZE INCLUDES ACCOMMODATION IN A DELUXE BUNGALOW FOR FIVE NIGHTS, MAXIMUM TWO ADULTS AND TWO CHILDREN (CHILDREN UP TO 11 YEARS OLD), ON A BED & BREAKFAST BASIS. INCLUDES RETURN SHARED AIRPORT TRANSFERS, ONE SUNSET CRUISE EXCURSION FOR THE FAMILY, ONE GLASS BOTTOM BOAT EXCURSION FOR THE FAMILY AND ONE SNORKELLING SAFARI EXCURSION FOR THE FAMILY. FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 65
THIS PAGE: Arlo wears cotton shirt, £12, Marks & Spencer. Cotton shorts, £22, Petit Bateau. RIGHT PAGE: Isabella wears cotton top and matching shorts set, £30, The Little White Company. Cotton blanket, £22, The Little White Company.
B A B YB L O O M
PHOTOGR APHY: LEONIE FR EE MAN ST YLING: Y VADNEY DAVIS FLOWER S: BLOMST LON DON
THIS PAGE: Margot wears cotton voile dress, £55, Wild & Gorgeous. LEFT PAGE: Nancy wears cashmere romper, £42, Olivier Baby & Kids.
THIS PAGE: Arlo wears linen romper, from £16.99, Freya Lillie. RIGHT PAGE: Isabella wears cotton blouse, £64, Bonpoint. Cotton-blend trousers, £42, Soft Gallery at Liberty.
THIS PAGE: Riley wears cotton romper, £45, Annaliv. RIGHT PAGE: Margot wears cotton vest and bloomers set, £45, Elfie London.
SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: ARLO, ISABELLA, MARGOT, NANCY AND RILEY. MODEL AGENCIES: RAY & ROBIN, TINY ANGELS
Faux scabious stem £6, bloom.uk.com
Cotton shorts (pack of two) £13, next.co.uk
Cotton and cashmere cardigan £14, marksandspencer.com
Faux hollyhock and quaking grass stems from £6, bloom.uk.com
Cotton-blend coat £29.99, zara.com
Cotton jersey shirt £7.99, lindex.com
Cotton dress £10, direct.asda.com
Cotton cardigan £7.99, hm.com
Cotton top £12, riverisland.com
Faux larkspur posy £2.99, hobbycraft.co.uk
Polarn O Pyret cotton dress £18, johnlewis.com Linen-blend shirt £16, monsoon.co.uk
Cotton romper £29.50, petit-bateau.co.uk
SHOP THE SHOOT
Choose meadow-fresh linen and pure cotton for an angelic twist on baby’s summer style
Cotton romper £11, next.co.uk
Cotton twill dungarees £25, petit-bateau.co.uk
Linen-blend dungarees £17.99, hm.com Faux peony posy £9.59, maisondumonde.com
COMPILED BY: CHLOE COLLYER
Cotton T-shirt £10, mamasandpapas.com
Handcrafted Natural Dolls www.ciaobimba.com /ciaobimbadolls
@ciaobimba.dolls
/CiaoBimbaDolls
SPOTLIGHT ON Rachel’s designs have been given the royal seal of approval
Behind the brand
RACHEL RILEY
FOR MOR E THAN 20 YE AR S, Rachel Riley HAS BEEN CR E ATING CHILDR EN SWE AR THAT HAS CAUGHT TH E EYE OF EVEN TH E MOST E STEEM ED YOU NG SH OPPER S. Danielle Wilkins M EE TS TH E DE SIGN ER
Sample making at the designer’s French workshop
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babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 77
SPOTLIGHT ON
hen my three children were young, I wanted clothes that were cute and stylish but also allowed them to run around and do the things children like to do. Everything I found was either too formal or not particularly well made, and I wanted items that would last, in the hope all three of them would be able to wear them at some point. “I love that quote from Vivienne Westwood – you know, ‘buy less; choose well’,” smiles Rachel. “It’s all about longevity for me.” We’re sat around the corner from the designer’s flagship store on Marylebone High Street, drinking citron pressés in the sunshine. Rachel looks immaculate as always, dressed in her signature forties-style dress and oversized sunglasses, her hair neatly tied back into a bun. The London-born designer – a former model who met her husband, Daniel Jouanneau, a French photographer, when she was working in Paris – was already making clothes for her three children, Felix, Alfie and Rose, and her friends’ children, when she realised that she wanted to start her self-titled business back in 1994. “We were living in France at the time and the location of our house used to be an area that used very traditional sewing methods – unfortunately not much sewing happens there anymore,” she says. “Everything was made to order. We had two local ladies who would make our leather slippers using a method that had been passed down through generations. When they told me they were going to retire, I offered – on the spur of the moment –
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The brand’s baby slippers are hand-sewn and turned, and made from the softest leather
to buy their machinery. We still have two seamstresses who work there, and that’s where we continue to make all our samples.” The family relocated to London in 1998, and now with bricks-and-mortar stores in both Marylebone and Knightsbridge, Rachel has become famed for her traditional children’s tailoring. The collections feature everything from old-fashioned hand smocking and delicate embroidery to colourful, vintageinspired prints. But with new ranges coming out four times a year, where does she get her inspiration? “I’ve been collecting prints and fabrics ever since I was a teenager,” she recalls. “I have a huge archive of vintage prints – I used to go to jumble sales to find interesting textiles and bits of fabric, and even now, if I’m somewhere in the world that might have a market or something going on, I’ll try to go along. “I also like to look through books,” she adds. “People don’t really look through books these days, but I love seeing how children’s clothes have been made over the last 100 years.” The designer also admits that watching how the royal family have dressed their children over the decades has been a huge inspiration. So much so, when she first heard we would be expecting a new royal baby in December 2012, Rachel reacted quickly, and began working on a 30-piece collection to tie in with the birth. “I designed the Heritage Collection in time for the new-season shows in the January – we
wanted to get it in stores for June, when Prince George was due, and we did,” she recalls. The range, which gets added to every year, was based around classic baby layette, with a prince and princess theme. “It was a great innovation for our business and has remained popular ever since,” says Rachel. “Many of the big department stores – Harrods, Selfridges, Saks – they picked up the Heritage Collection at that time because it tied in nicely with the royal news.” Little did she know, not long after that, Rachel would reap the benefits of a royal endorsement herself. When Prince George was spotted in her sailboat-print smocked dungarees back in April 2014, on his first public
PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM/RACHELRILEYGLAM
“
Rachel’s ‘slipper factory’, La Roche, still uses traditional French sewing methods
Rachel also designs a selection of women’s clothes, which she calls ‘Mother Match’
Key
ays on the lookout The designer is alw rics and trims fab ng sti for intere
engagement with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in New Zealand, the designer says she was unprepared for the frenzy that followed: “The reaction was incredible,” she smiles. “I knew he had some of our clothes, but I had no idea if he would ever wear them in public. I’ve seen a lot of press over the years – we’ve had a lot of celebrity customers – but this really pushed us into the international spotlight. The media’s response to anything Prince George has worn has been wonderful.” Young George followed up with a few different Rachel Riley outfits during that official tour of New Zealand and Australia, and the following year he was spotted in what Rachel describes as “probably one of our most formal outfits” for Princess Charlotte’s christening – the little red cotton shorts and embroidered smocked shirt. The Duke and Duchess also chose the designer for the first official photos of him with his baby sister. Since then, Rachel’s designs have continued to catapult the brand into the limelight. But she reveals that for her, designing children’s clothes is about more than just “putting something out there”. “What I love is creating matching pieces – I used to love matching my kids, people thought they looked really endearing,” she laughs.
“But it’s important to me that our prints are uplifting and can be mixed and matched. Our map print, for example, is something I love to put on little boys’ shirts, but I equally love putting it on our girls’ dresses. Clothing is meant to make you feel happy and empowered,” she says. “I once had a four-year-old girl in our store who was trying on our jellyfish print swimsuit. She was marching around, feeling completely and utterly proud because it reminded her of the time she had conquered her fear and had touched a jellyfish. It was more than just a swimsuit to her,” she smiles. And in that moment it becomes clear that, to Rachel, each and every little customer is a prince or princess in their own right. This autumn, the designer reveals she is keen to expand even more internationally, with her focus right now being on next year’s collections, and samples for an affordable and accessible home range later this year. “It’s actually a really fun collaboration,” she explains, “bedding for babies, toddlers, children, teens and adults. The teen one was really fun for me, having had teens of my own! I did some quite daring things,” she laughs. Daring or not, Rachel’s spirit and passion is infectious. And for a designer who first built her business around her family – a business that is true to her own personal style and the beauty of traditional craftsmanship – the future is looking very rosy indeed.
styles for summer xxxxxxxx
Seahorse-print romper £39 Smocked cotton bodysuit £79
Cotton dress and bloomers £59
Cotton striped jersey top and shorts set £65
Anchor-print swim shorts £39
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 79
A brand new nursery opening in Battersea, August 2017 “Shaping children’s futures for four decades” Part of the Riverlight Development in Battersea, The Battersea Nursery & Pre-School is set to be the most amazing environment for under 5s. With dedicated spaces to suit each individual child, equipment to stimulate and delight, plus an amazing team to nurture, teach and care for your child; we believe that our brand new nursery, will be a great place for children to develop, flourish and grow
To register your interest, visit battersea.busybees.com or call 0330 134 8829 The Battersea Nursery & Pre-School, Riverlight, Nine Elms Lane, Battersea, London, SW8 5BP
REVIEW
TOTGEAR
Catherine Balston AN D H ER T WIN GIR L S CLOCK U P TH E MILE S WITH TH E MOU NTAIN BUGGY DU E T MOUNTAIN BUGGY DUET The Duet cruises comfortably across mud, snow and sand
My twin daughters, Frances and Marcela, turn one this week, which means not only have I made it through the first year with my sanity intact, but their Mountain Buggy Duet has proven to be a trusted four-wheel companion. Most mothers of twins I know have tandem buggies – the slim option for getting around town, albeit with one child always stuck in the back seat. What first sold me on the side-byside Mountain Buggy Duet was its claim to be no wider than a single buggy (63cm). And as yet, no door or alleyway has defeated us.
GOOD LOOKING? The Duet is definitely a looker, with a choice of colours for the seat and sun covers. The handlebar easily accommodates different heights, and the basket is tucked neatly away underneath, though this does mean you’ll be down on your knees to access it. The real innovation, however, is the buggy’s versatility. The two front-facing seats are the default, but you can buy accessories to create a jigsaw puzzle of seat options to suit your set-up – from a single seat and tote shopping basket, to two parent-facing bassinets for newborns. There’s even a scooter attachment for toddlers. I picked the Carrycot Plus, an interchangeable set of two bassinets and two parent-facing seats, to see us through from the girls’ first outing to their first birthday.
PRATICALITY & DRIVABILITY The Mountain Buggy Duet can turn corners so tight, it makes a London cab look cumbersome. Its manoeuvrability is exceptional, taking on the highest of kerbs, the
knottiest of tree roots, and gliding on and off buses with ease. With all-terrain credentials, it’s given us a great sense of freedom. We’ve been for walks along beaches in Brazil, down dirt tracks in Dorset and through snowy fields in Wiltshire, and we’ve yet to get stuck. There’s even a ski attachment for the wheels. The off-road action of Mountain Buggy owners is perhaps the reason why the standard air-filled tyres reportedly don’t survive hard wear and tear. I heard from friends, and read in a number of reviews, that tyres started to puncture after a few months. The thought of juggling two crying babies and a puncture repair kit convinced me to fork out for the puncture-proof rubber tyres from the start, and they’re still going strong. The compact design has a plethora of seat options
The twins snooze in their smooth ride
THE VERDICT The Mountain Buggy Duet has certainly lived up to its reputation as an all-terrain stroller. It’s comfortable and reliable, and has accessories that can adapt the buggy to your growing brood – although be prepared to spend around 50% more on top of the buggy price for these. The storm cover and mesh cover, and the puncture-proof tyres, were nonnegotiable for me, but the carrycot set for newborns is a nice-to-have. The standard seats recline fully, and with a lambswool liner to keep them cosy, my girls have loved cruising in the buggy right from the very start. From; £599, mountainbuggy.com
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 81
Summer strolling
The latest and greatest baby gear to get your hands on
ICANDY STRAWBERRY iCandy has revamped its Strawberry pushchair with six new nature-inspired colourways, featuring a luxury leatherette handle and bumper bar. £645, icandyworld.com
STOKKE ATHLEISURE COLLECTION Chic and practical, this range includes the My Carrier baby carrier and the Xplory pushchair. The mesh fabrics are super breathable, with quicky-dry properties. From £129, stokke.com
MACLAREN X DYLAN’S CANDY BAR In the mood for something sweet? Maclaren has teamed up with American confectioners Dylan’s Candy Bar to offer a capsule collection of three buggy designs. From £50, maclaren.uk
BUNDLEBEAN BUGGY ORGANISER With two Velcro straps, these organisers fit both one- and two-handled buggies. We’re definitely getting summer vibes from this flamingo design… £14.99, bundlebean.com
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QUINNY ZAPP X Arriving just in time for summertime saunters, the Zapp offers one iconic frame but endless seating options, all of which slot in with just a single click. From £195, quinny.com
SILVER CROSS AVIA The new sleek and stylish Avia comes in two special editions – Eton Grey and Henley. We love that the bumper bar can be used as a carry handle, too. £225, silvercrossbaby.com
TOT GEAR
ON THE ROAD
Laura Harris and baby daughter Evie review the Cybex Sirona It’s protective
It grows with them
The Cybex Sirona has won multiple awards for its safety and design. It installs using Isofix and features a five-point harness, telescopic shock absorbers and removable covers.
Suitable from birth to four years (or 18kg), the seat has an 11-position adjustable headrest which changes the length and angle of the harness, so it grows as your child does.
It’s easy to adjust
The base rotates 360˚ so you can move baby in and out of the car seat with ease. The clever rotation system also allows you to adjust the seat forward as well as rear-facing. The 360˚ swivel is a ‘godsend’
WHY A CYBEX SIRONA? When pregnant with Evie, choosing a car seat proved a minefield for my husband and I. Our primary requirement was that it could work with a pushchair base, but with hindsight we should have chosen one that would last longer than the first 15 months. So with our toddler in tow, this time we decided to try the Sirona, which came highly recommended and will last Evie until she reaches four years old. £375, cybex-online.com
HOW SAFE IS IT? Rearward facing is the safest option when travelling with young children, and the Sirona allows you this option right up until the age of four. As a German brand, safety is high on the agenda; the Sirona is perhaps a little larger than other models but this gives me assurance that it’s safely cocooning Evie. Not only does the seat excel on testing but it also feels sturdy, supportive and robust.
IS IT PRACTICAL? Completely! We travel long distances as well as jumping in and out of the car locally and it ticks all those boxes. Lifting Evie in and out is easy, thanks to the 360° swivel – this really is a parental godsend, I just wish my first car seat had this feature. It also has several reclining positions which is useful. Realistically I’m not sure Evie’s legs will fit rearward facing when she’s four, but for now she’s very comfy.
DOES IT LOOK GOOD? I’m worried we should have perhaps chosen a more classic colour – we have tinted windows in the back but you can still spot the ‘Autumn Gold’ from a distance! So once I get bored of the colour in six months, I’ll perhaps invest in a cover. However, the high-quality material is soft and comfy for Evie and most importantly it wipes and washes clean really easily.
THE VERDICT This car seat really works for us – I only wish we’d got it from birth! I feel like we haven’t yet explored all the Sirona has to offer – I’m determined to use all seven reclining positions at some point. Luckily we have plenty of time to make the most of it. Oh, hey!
ADVERTORIAL Sleep safely, feed easily and be closer to your baby with the 3-In-1 Bedside Crib
Sleeping soundly SAFE, SECU R E AN D CLOSE, DISCOVER TH E PER FEC T SLEEP SOLUTION FOR YOU R N EWBOR N RIGHT H ER E e know how it feels during those early months – the worry, the desire to be nearby. Your newborn baby is the centre of your world, but is there a safe way to keep her close while you sleep? Not only do experts suggest that sleeping in the same room as your baby will help her to regulate her breathing, there is also evidence to suggest that sleeping in the same room can
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help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Then there’s the added benefit of keeping baby close for mothers who have had caesarean sections – after all, it’s no fun getting out of bed and reaching down into a Moses basket, or walking through the house to the nursery to feed several times in the night, when you should be recovering. For some, co-sleeping solves the problem. For others, the worry associated with sharing the same bed is too much. That’s why bedside cribs, such as the SnüzPod, offer an alternative, so you can sleep next to your baby safely. The SnüzPod 3-in-1 Bedside Crib easily attaches to your own bed, and features a unique zip-down mesh wall that allows you to access your little one during the night to
comfort and feed her. Then, simply zip back up to create a safe, four-walled sleeping space for baby. The transparent mesh allows you to see her at all times. Come morning, the lift-off bassinet allows your baby to nap away to her heart’s content in her own bed, anywhere in the house, or in comfort and familiar surroundings when you’re travelling. A third function transforms the SnüzPod into a rockable stand-alone crib for the nursery. The SnüzPod is offered in seven different colours to suit your home décor and style; choose from Blush, Sherbet, Putty, Eco-White, Dove Grey, Espresso and Natural. Suitable from birth to six months, this bedside crib could be the safe and secure sleep solution your newborn needs. snuz.co.uk
BABY TALK
Baking dad
THE DAD DIARY Tom Fletcher
Does Giovanna ever feel outnumbered? [Laughs] Maybe when we’re running around dressed as Star Wars characters and having battles on the sofa. We’re a definite unit, but I’m sure there are moments when she feels like a single mother with three kids…
INTERVIEW: DANIELLE WILKINS. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/TOMFLETCHER
Weekend vibes
“Probably my proudest moment of fatherhood so far”
Buzz Fletcher: McFly’s fifth member
So would you say you’re the ‘fun’ parent? I think you have to be a bit of everything. You can be the one who is silly and fun but you also have to be responsible sometimes and tell them, ‘no, you can’t climb out of the window’. There will be phases when you’ll be the one the kids come to when they want to play; other times you’ll be the one they come to when they fall over and hurt themselves. Where do you go when you feel like dodging dad responsibilities once in a while? Whenever I’m not in dad mode, it’s because I’m working. Like this morning, I was literally Dad until I stepped into a cab and came into London. When they go to bed, that’s when we get to do adult things. You know, like shopping for carpets and curtains. Tell us more about your new title, There’s a Monster in Your Book. It was actually the first book I ever wrote. I was on tour, and I remember having this idea for a children’s book that meant when you tilted or shook it, you would see results when you turned the page. I sketched it out roughly on the hotel room notepad – complete with a very badly drawn
A good bag! A good, trustworthy bag with lots of pockets.
Little Buddy turned one this year
How has life been lately as dad to your boys Buzz [three] and Buddy [one]? Great! We’ve just got back from an amazing trip to Disneyland, which threw up the usual challenges of trying to get through airports with two kids and a crazy amount of luggage. Now we’re home, it’s back to normality!
“I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT…”
The McFly musician, children’s author and father of two shares the good, the bad and the oh-so honest about family life
Boys together: Home
it’ alone and ‘winging
monster – and showed the rest of the band. They all laughed, so I thought, ‘great, it works!’ Now, six years on, it’s being published. What made you want to go into children’s writing in the first place? When I was on tour, I would always end up in bookshops to get inspiration for music and album artwork, and would naturally gravitate towards the children’s section. Plus, I’ve always had a passion to write. At first it was just a side project to McFly, but when The Christmasaurus was published – that’s how much I realised I loved it. I get the same buzz from writing stories as I do from writing music. What advice would you give to new dads? Every child is different, and ‘professional’ advice seems to change all the time. Your kid lets you know everything you need to do – you just need to listen to them. Is that what fatherhood has taught you? Definitely. Fatherhood isn’t what you expect it to be. As much as I ‘prepared’, it’s still hard. You just have to wing it! There’s a Monster in Your Book by Tom Fletcher (£10.99, Puffi n) is available from 29 June
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 85
PARTY TIME
This adorable design comes presented in a beautiful gift box
PARTIES
DECORATE
1
Sweet finishing touches for a stylish celebration
with Carole Middleton
Foil balloon £3.99, partypieces.co.uk
2
3
Baby showers Hand-tied bouquet POA, blomst.co.uk
Make this joyous occasion with friends and family one you’ll never forget
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baby shower is a wonderful way to celebrate the impending arrival of a little one – not to mention a great way to get a group of friends together to share advice and revel in all things miniature!
4
Paper plates (pack of eight) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk
5
‘Secret Centre’ sponge cake £30, marksandspencer.com
6 1. Cotton-blend babygrow £68, mariechantal.co.uk 2. Ewan the Dream Sheep soother £29.99, johnlewis.com 3. Wool baby shawl £69.95, ghhurt.com 4. Mother & Baby Organic Collection skincare set £45, nealsyardremedies.com 5. Aden + Anais muslin swaddles £44.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk 6. Hooded towel £24, mollyandmoo.co.uk
Advice cards (pack of 10) £4.99, partypieces.co.uk
Start by picking a theme or colour scheme. If you don’t want to stick to pink or blue, a mixed palette of ice cream shades will work beautifully in the garden or indoors. Set the scene with bright floral tablecentres. Nothing says, ‘it’s a girl!’ quite like a bouquet of hot pink roses, ranunculus or carnations. For blue blooms, try delphiniums, cornflowers, hydrangeas or sweet peas. A buffet of easy-to-prepare finger foods works best for gatherings like these, or why not serve up a simple brunch? Whatever you choose, don’t forget to finish with sweet treats and cake. Passed down recipes, such as Granny’s famous carrot cake, will add a memorable and personal touch. Finally, get everyone involved with a few games. Ask your guests to write their own pearls of wisdom, or baby name ideas, and drop them into a box. Or why not try a babygrow decorating station, complete with fabric pens and paint?
Party balloons (pack of six) £2.49, partypieces.co.uk Edible biscuit card £9, biscuiteers.com babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 87
Helping you prepare for your newborn and beyond Specialising in supporting expectant mothers, providing honest, professional and excellent customer service. Our primary focus is to equip Mums-to-be with pregnancy and birth essentials, being fully engaged throughout the process.
Our Services: Bra Fitting • Maternity Styling • Post Pregnancy Support • One-on-One Product Consultation Baby Shopping • Nursery Decor Consultation • Maternity Shoot Private Midwives • Hospital Bags • Baby Shower
To book a free consultation visit our website: www.prepmum.com (+44) 79 0895 1334
contact@prepmum.com
prepmum
HEALTH
IN GOOD SHAPE Research has revealed 34% of pregnant women aren’t sure how to exercise safely, with 28% of mothers-to-be giving it up altogether for fear of harming their unborn baby. Aptaclub’s new Active for 2 campaign includes fitness videos and advice to help educate pregnant women about the benefits of keeping fit, showing them how to adapt their routines to suit each trimester. aptaclub.co.uk/activefor2
BOTTLED LUXURY
The debut range from Unity Beauty Essentials has been specifically designed to target stubborn stretch marks during your pregnancy. Launching with three products – the Daily Body Hydrator, Stretch Mark Cream & Oil and Intensive Body Nourisher – each harnesses the power of the brand’s staple ingredient, Indian gooseberry, for natural hydration. From £35, unitybeautyessentials.com
Clean up all sorts of mess with these soothing, dermatologist-approved wipes
IT’S A WIPE OUT Childs Farm – already a hit with parents for its supersensitive skincare – has launched its first range of wipes. The biodegradable sheets contain more than 99% natural ingredients, including aloe vera, with an ‘everyday’ pack for the whole family and another just for baby. From £1.49, boots.com
health & beauty
NEWS
TH E L ATE ST PRODUC TS AN D IN N OVATION S IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING C’EST SOFT! Cult skincare brand La RochePosay is already a firm favourite in our beauty arsenal, and now the brand has launched a range especially for baby. The collection includes products ranging from gentle wash to a multitasking wonder balm that treats everything from dry patches to bites. From £7, boots.com
A NEW SURVEY FROM BRUSH BABY HAS REVEALED PARENTS ARE UNAWARE OF THE BENEFITS OF EARLY ORAL CARE, WITH ONLY 13% REALISING THAT BABY FIRST NEEDS TO BE TAKEN TO THE DENTIST AT SIX MONTHS OLD. BRUSHBABY.CO.UK
LABOUR OF LOVE Reading up on the birth? Take heed of Suzy Ashworth’s advice in new book, The Calm Birth Method. The pregnancy coach shares tips for a positive labour, with mindful breathing techniques. Out 4 July. £12.99, Hay House UK
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 89
TROPICAL WAVES
Philip Kingsley’s multi-award winning Elasticizer has been transformed for the new season with a gorgeous coconut scent; sure to evoke memories of the beach every time you use it. The intensive, super-conditioning preshampoo treatment adds elasticity, bounce and shine to all hair types, and provides UV protection to avoid sun damage, too. £33 (150ml), johnlewis.com
SUMMER BEAUTY KIT Kate Freud R EVE AL S WHAT’S N EW, WHAT WOR KS AN D WHAT TO BUY
THE MIDAS TOUCH Luxury skincare brand 111Skin’s CO2 Crystallising Energy Masks are just the ticket for getting your skin to sparkle this summer. The brightening treatments create a chemical reaction on the skin’s surface, producing an influx of oxygen to the face, which boosts elasticity and the skin’s ability to repair. £125, spacenk.com
DOUBLE ACT We love a time-saving beauty cheat, like the Skinesis Lash Boosting Eye Cleanse from Sarah Chapman. Not only does it act as a make-up remover – even shifting stubborn waterproof mascara – it reduces puffiness, refreshes sleep-deprived eyes and promotes growth of lashes using aminoacid ingredients. £33, lookfantastic.com
Fake a good night’s sleep in just 30 minutes with 111Skin’s illuminating masks
KISS AND MAKE-UP Lips are often neglected when it comes to our skincare routines, so step forward Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil, which contains a cocktail of botanical oils to nourish your pout. It also boasts all the benefits of a high-shine gloss, and plumps the lips at the same time. Now available in four new shades. £19, johnlewis.com
TRIED & TESTED
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
Still waiting for that pregnancy glow to reach full beam? Well, the latest Pregnancy Glow Facial at Aesthetics Lab in Primrose Hill might just be the boost you need. The clinic – a firm favourite with locals such as Millie Mackintosh and Sadie Frost – has created a pampering facial for expectant mothers that promises to soothe, balance and give your skin a new lease of life. Does it deliver? Absolutely. The experienced therapist handled my delicate, congested skin with care, and her massage techniques were incredible. The choice of products is tailored to you and in this case, were spot on, because I left beaming – in every sense of the word. The secret behind the glow was a double cleanse to remove make-
up and grime, followed by a medley of products infused with hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to boost collagen and promote cell renewal. And while the mask was working its magic, the therapist got busy massaging my neck and shoulders. If pregnancy hormones are doing all sorts to your complexion, I’m convinced this can work wonders, even if the effects only last for a few days… £180 for 75 minutes, aestheticslab.co.uk Danielle Wilkins, Features Editor
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DEVELOPMENT
Boost your baby’s brain power Louise Pyne ON TH E FIVE SIM PLE STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO SU PERCHARGE YOU R CHILD’S COGNITIVE DEVELOPM ENT
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DEVELOPMENT
uring pregnancy and throughout your baby’s first year, his brain undergoes a massive amount of growth. By the time he reaches three months, your little one’s brain will have reached half its adult size, and by 12 months he will be making sense of everything he hears, sees, feels and tastes. “The brain stem connects to the brain at around 13 weeks of pregnancy and from that moment on, it’s all systems go,” explains Angela Spencer, author of Babyopathy. Genetics, environmental factors and his earliest experiences all contribute to this basic neurological wiring, and you too can help to nurture his development on an everyday basis – here’s how:
D
ENGAGE WITH YOUR BABY From day one, your baby is constantly absorbing the world around him, and while he might not be able to speak back to you, interacting with him around the clock will help him develop intellectually, so take advantage of this window of opportunity. “Wherever possible always be descriptive, you’re not just
able to visually recognise it for quite some time,” continues Angela. Finally, in order to encourage a love of reading from an early age, take your baby on an outing to the library every few weeks to stock up on new material.
SET UP A GOOD SLEEP ROUTINE Ensuring your baby gets enough sleep is as important for mental development as it is for physical, so prioritising a good routine from around week eight should be a top priority. “As adults we recognise that a lack of sleep can affect our ability to function and perform tasks the next day, and so it makes sense that sleep is important to a baby and their brain development too,” says Angela. Be aware of tiredness cues such as baby rubbing his eyes and becoming restless, and make sure to show him the difference between night and day to help regulate his internal body clock.
BE EXTRA AFFECTIONATE Your baby is dependent on you not just for round-the-clock feeds and nappy changes but also for care and affection. By month five,
BY THREE MONTHS YOUR LITTLE ONE’S BRAIN WILL HAVE REACHED HALF ITS ADULT SIZE putting a sock on, for example, you are putting ‘one red sock on your foot’ and then, ‘two red socks on.’ Don’t just wipe his nose or face but tell him what you are doing before you do it and as you do it, so he starts to associate your words with actions. He will develop a much wider understanding of vocabulary this way,” says Angela.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
TAKE TRIPS TO THE LIBRARY It’s never too early to start reading to your child, in fact, experts believe that reading should begin in the womb. “As his senses come to life, what he hears, sees and feels all contributes to early brain development. By reading to your baby in the womb (even reading a magazine out loud while having a cup of tea), means your baby will already be forming patterns of voice and tone recognition,” explains Angela. And once your baby is born and babbling away, try to find books that have pictures as babies absorb much more information before they can actually verbalise it. “So by the time he can actually say ‘giraffe’, he will have been
your baby will be able to show his emotions by smiling and cooing and it’s important to encourage his positive expressions to foster a strong emotional bond. Responding to your baby’s signs of affection also builds intelligence and logic as he gradually learns that his actions have an effect on you. “Your baby needs to know through every sense that he is loved, so smiles, words, actions and touch play a big role,” says Angela.
PLAY GAMES Playtime is hugely rewarding for babies of all ages, so whether it’s shaking a rattle or building a tower of blocks, your little one will be actively learning how the world works through play. “You don’t have to shell out on expensive toys, use everyday items like a cardboard box filled with colourful scraps of material, or make a rattle from a water bottle filled with pasta shells, to help strengthen brain cells. Songs with lots of hand gestures, tummy time and enticing items to encourage baby to reach out and pick up are all ways of boosting his reasoning skills,” Angela says.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 93
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Actress Mila Kunis talks openly about life in Hollywood as a mother of two • The pros and cons of egg freezing: the latest updates and fertility FAQs • A comprehensive guide to choosing the right childcare for your family • Beat those sleep setbacks and supercharge their snoozing time • Discussing siblings: is there such a thing as the perfect age gap? • Ready, set, shop! Stylish buys for baby • A breathe… the best postnatal retreats • and much, much more!
Q&A
RUNNING HEAD
with fertility expert
Zita West
“I’ve just found out I am pregnant and though I’m excited, I’m also feeling very anxious. Is this normal?”
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
P
to have some anxiety. It is essential to manage regnancy can be overwhelming to the your stress, so I always advise techniques like point that after wanting a baby for so visualisation to help you relax. long, getting a positive test can quickly Having a healthy mindset is also linked turn into stress and anxiety. After the initial with sleep – and during pregnancy, one of period of happiness, pregnancy can seem very lonely and scary, and your head can start to fill the first things to suffer is sleep. If you’ve been through an IVF cycle to conceive, you with thoughts of what might go wrong. may already be physically and emotionally We all experience a host of emotions as exhausted, and most women I see are working we go through change, and most pregnant full-time jobs, renovating houses and running women’s feelings are heightened by the on energy reserves. Get to bed early and rest hormones rushing around their bodies. And plenty, building up those reserves through the bottom line is, the process of having a eating a varied and balanced diet, and going baby is profoundly life changing. In extreme out for gentle walks. This will all help you feel cases – if you notice you feel low, anxious healthier and better about things. or stressed without relief for more than Nutrition plays a key role, and at my a fortnight – you may be suffering from clinic we stress the importance of taking antenatal depression. It’s less commonly multivitamins and Omega 3 to help known about than postnatal supplement your diet. Finally, if depression, but affects one in ed d n e m m o c you have any burning questions, 10 pregnant women. But for e R product ask your midwife for support. most of us, it’s just a case She’s there to help you. of emotional turbulence, Never be afraid to share how which can be managed with you are feeling. You should a few simple techniques. also consider joining a local Firstly, don’t give yourself Vital DHA capsules antenatal group. a hard time, it’s only natural £15.50, zitawest.com
TO BEAT MORNING SICKNESS 5 WAYS Feeling sick or vomiting are one of the common symptoms of early pregnancy. Here are my tips on how to cope:
Drink lots of water Staying hydrated is very important during the whole of your pregnancy to avoid fatigue and dehydration, and it can help with nausea and headaches. Eat small, simple meals more frequently. Choose foods that appeal to you and eat small amounts of them often to keep your blood-sugar levels stable. Try acupuncture As well as helping you to manage stress, acupuncture can help with morning sickness, and there are bands you can buy which work on the key pressure points. Ginger is good Ginger is rich in zinc and is one of the best remedies for nausea. Try a warming cup of ginger tea or snack on ginger biscuits to help combat feelings of sickness. Try yoga or meditation Regular yoga and meditation can help relax your diaphragm and can help with feelings of nausea.
Zita West is the founder of Zita West Fertility Clinic, which specialises in a holistic approach to IVF. Instagram: @the_first_1000_days
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 95
WELLBEING
The mother of all worries MOST N EW MUMS HAVE N EVER EVEN H E AR D OF POSTNATAL ANXIE T Y, BUT IT COU LD BE MOR E COMMON THAN POSTNATAL DEPR E SSION , SAYS Becky Dickinson
t doesn’t matter how many books you read, or how many antenatal classes you attend, nothing can really prepare you for the responsibility of keeping another human being alive – of caring for a tiny, vulnerable person whose primary means of communication is crying. And while the sleepless nights, sore nipples and physical effects of delivery can be painfully tangible, often it’s the inner churnings of the mind, those nebulous, corrosive thoughts that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and psychologically exhausted. Because however much you love your baby, looking after one can be, frankly, terrifying. For some women, natural worry can quickly spiral into full-blown postnatal anxiety. This can manifest itself in many ways, such as not being able to sleep when your baby is sleeping, for fear they may stop breathing. Or avoiding contact with friends and family in case they pass on any germs. Even refusing to let your child travel in a car for fear of there being an accident. Postnatal anxiety is something 41-year-old Sophie, mum to six-month-old Albie, can identify with only too well. “About a week after the birth, I began worrying about my partner going back to work. My stomach was in knots, and I was retching all the time,” she says. “I lost loads
I
of weight and felt like I couldn’t cope. I didn’t think I could look after him and thought he was going to die.” Of course, most of us fret about whether our baby is warm, happy and healthy. But when these worries become an all-consuming world of worst-case scenarios, this can be a sign of something more serious. Unlike postnatal depression (PND), many mums don’t even realise postnatal anxiety is a recognised condition, perhaps believing it’s a normal part of motherhood. But recent studies suggest it may be even more common
really well and loved him, and didn’t want anything bad to happen to him,” she says. “But I didn’t realise it would be so life-changing, I didn’t know if I was built for motherhood.” Many mums will relate to the fear of not being able to protect their baby from harm – because only when we love someone so immeasurably, do we realise that love and fear go hand-in-hand. Yet when these worries interfere with everyday activities, it’s important to seek help. Dr Christine Langhoff is a Dulwich-based psychologist, who specialises in perinatal therapies. She says: “It’s really normal to have an increased level of anxiety postpartum, and also during pregnancy. There is a change in responsibility and roles, and the lack of sleep can also impact levels of anxiety. But if it gets in the way of life or family life, causes significant distress, significantly decreases enjoyment or parenting, or impairs functioning, then it is recommended to seek help.” Unfortunately, postnatal anxiety has received little attention, and is often mistakenly diagnosed as PND. But Dr Langhoff points out there are essential differences. “In PND, often energy levels may be very low, there may be an overwhelming sense of sadness and it could be hard to do things, even getting out of bed could be tough. Anxiety is often more characterised by
IF POSTPARTUM ANXIETY GETS IN THE WAY OF FAMILY LIFE OR CAUSES DISTRESS, SEEK HELP
96 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
than PND. According to the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) around 20% of women experience perinatal mental illness during pregnancy and the first year of their babies’ lives, and for many of these women, the main problem is anxiety. Janet Fyle, midwife and professional policy advisor for the RCM, says there is a need for much greater awareness: “Postnatal anxiety is commonly overlooked by society and health professionals. There’s a lack of intervention, but the toll on women’s lives can be crippling.” In her darkest moments, Sophie wasn’t even sure if she wanted to keep her son. “I bonded
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
WELLBEING
high energy levels, as in an inability to relax, restlessness, constant worries and often an array of physiological symptoms of anxiety such as shakiness, butterflies in stomach and sometimes even panic attacks.” The key thing is not to suffer in silence, but to speak to friends, family and other mums. This can help normalise the feelings you’re experiencing. But if your worry seems excessive compared to that of others, speak to your midwife, health visitor or doctor. The good news is much can be done to manage, or even eradicate the symptoms. For some women, medication helps. Sertraline, for example, can be prescribed for both postnatal
depression and anxiety, and is compatible with breastfeeding. Dr Langhoff also recommends psychological therapies. “Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is very effective for anxiety disorders,” she says. “Moreover, the NICE guidelines would use this as a gold standard treatment approach. Other forms of psychological intervention also have good results for postpartum difficulties, such as compassionfocused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and group therapies. I generally see results with short-term therapy of six to 12 sessions, where postnatal anxiety is either resolved or manageable.’’
Meanwhile, Janet Fyle is passionate about debunking the myths and stigmas that surround maternal mental illness. “Women play down their anxieties for fear of being judged. They want to be seen as ‘tough’ but women really do need to report these issues. They won’t be judged; they will be helped and pointed in the right direction so the condition doesn’t get worse.” Fortunately, Sophie did seek help. Her symptoms have dramatically improved thanks to a combination of medication, CBT and mindfulness exercises, which have helped her to come to relish motherhood – despite the sleepless nights.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 97
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HEALTH
The Breastfeeding Café with LOUISE PYNE
THIS ISSUE WE ASK
HOW CAN I BOOST MY MILK SUPPLY?
Y
ou need all the energy you can muster to cope with the changes that come with newborn territory, so focusing on a nutritious diet will help. And if you’re breastfeeding, upgrading your plate could also come with some super-important benefits. There’s a secret substance found in certain kitchen staples that could supercharge your supply – called galactagogues, these lactation enhancers are thought to work by increasing levels of prolactin, the hormone involved with milk production. These are my dietary picks:
issues, it makes sense to load up on iron-rich foods. Swiss chard is the veggie of choice, as 200g of the dark green leaf contains more than 5g of iron – one third of the RDA.
DON’T JUST EAT IT, DRINK IT… GINGER
Fatty acids are one of the key components in breast milk so loading up on foods containing fats called EPA and DHA is extremely important when you’re nursing. These fats also ensure proper brain and eye health in newborns. In addition to salmon, nuts, seeds and fortified foods are all good options.
Best known as a remedy for morning sickness, ginger may also be a potent galactagogue. One study showed that mothers who consumed ginger had a higher milk volume in the first few days postpartum than those who received a placebo. Ginger tea is an easy way to get your fix, or include the root in soups and stir-fries.
GARLIC
FENNEL
You might think garlic would automatically put your baby off feeding, but research shows that newborns nurse more frequently from mothers who have consumed large amounts of garlic. The more baby latches on, the greater your supply, so flavouring meals with the cloves could help to ensure a steady flow.
Fennel is packed with hormone-like compounds called phytoestrogens, and these are thought to have a positive effect on postpartum prolactin levels. Enjoy fennel in tea form, or shred the bulb into salads.
SALMON
OATS Starting your day with a bowl of oats might just be the easiest way to ensure a good flow. Oats contain an amino acid called glutamine which naturally has a calming effect on the body, and this is also thought to encourage let down.
SWISS CHARD If you lost a lot of blood during labour, your iron levels may be low. Deficiency signs include fatigue, low immunity and a pale complexion. Since studies link low iron levels with lactation
Louise Pyne is a nutritionist. For more information, visit louisepynenutrition.com
Maternity bras to love
Hotmilk lace-detail nursing bra £39.99, figleaves.com
ASOS Maternity jersey and lace nursing bra £18, asos.com
Royce printed nursing bra £30, figleaves.com
WATER OK, so it’s technically not a galactagogue food, but staying hydrated is one of the best ways to help your body to make milk. You’ll naturally crave more water when you’re feeding but pay extra attention to thirst cues. Sip on a large glass with each feed and if you get bored of regular water, add some lemon slices and a few sprigs of mint for a flavour boost.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 99
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100 | JUL/AUG17 | babylondon.co.uk
NEW
CHEL SEAHARBOUR
GOL DERSGREEN NEW
REGENTSPARK
BABY TALK
PART
Diary of a MUM
Mar tha Alexander IS IN A FOOD FR ENZ Y AS ROBIN AN D TH E KITCH EN FLOOR PROPEL INTO TH EIR WE ANING JOU R N EY
“
W
ill Robin have a lamb chop?” said my father, wearing an apron and wielding a spatula on our last visit. “Not for another millennium, Dad, sorry.” Blimey, weaning is a bore. After the initial awe generated from feeding an infant their first spoonful of puréed carrot, it really is the last word in frustrating. I write this from a kitchen which once had white walls. It now looks like a poor man’s Jackson Pollock – an unoriginal joke, sure, but how else to describe the lumpen splatters of orange encasing me? Obviously, I had pledged to cook everything from scratch, buying organic root veg from the farmers’ market, smugly telling anyone who would listen that I was preparing a season’s worth of food for my daughter. I steamed and puréed my pumpkins and swedes and parsnips before distributing the results into Annabel Karmel freezing trays then popping the frozen cubes out into labelled and dated bags. I even bought a pen especially for the labelling. My freezer became a focal point: “Look what I’ve been doing!” I’d announce with conceit untold, to my visitors, swinging the door open to reveal bags and bags of orange and yellow cubes. I was the best mother ever with my labelled bags and steaming skills. And initially Robin was the world’s best eater. Excited by everything I gave her, opening her mouth expectantly whenever food wasn’t actually in it. But then something changed. She decided against lumps. She couldn’t be doing with potato. She spat apple out and rejected berries of any kind. She also won’t drop her bottles. People keep saying, “it’ll work itself out” but every day Robin eats more and keeps her five bottles. I hate to sound lazy but this works out as eight feeding times each day. Eight! I can’t go anywhere without food. My friends with older children literally throw food into the back seats of the car when they are driving (“it’s like having a human dog,” beamed Julia, lobbing half a pitta and an open pouch of bangers and mash into the back of an Audi that once smelled of middle management and Coco Mademoiselle and now, well, you can imagine), and that is a meal time,
whereas I have to dress Robin up in a Terry cloth boiler suit and additional bib, and spend hours spooning food into her face. And no matter how careful and slow I am, at least 50% of it ends up not in her mouth. Anyway, I won’t give up. I toiled over a delicious vine tomato, basil and mozzarella pasta feast (“maybe I can be the next Ella of Ella’s Kitchen!” I thought, as I peeled, chopped and garnished, fantasising about making my fortune out of gourmet baby food despite barely being able to boil an egg, and making a mental note that we should invest in a marble worktop in the kitchen because it was likely that my ideas would be franchised into a TV show. I would become a human brand. A film crew would want to capture my culinary genius at home, and this MDF from 1994 was not #houseporn). I served my delicacy in an electric blue Tommee Tippee bowl and spoon-fed my infant diner. She considered my efforts for less than a second before disintegrating into disgusted tears and clamping her little mouth shut. My gourmet baby food business and becoming a human brand looked increasingly unlikely to be anything but a pipe dream. “RIGHT, THAT’S IT!” I unplugged the Nutribullet with a flourish. I’m sorry but I just do not have time to painstakingly create gastronomic delights for them only to be rejected out of hand. Jars, let’s be having you! Pouches, reveal yourselves. Now here’s the thing. It’s not all absolute rubbish in jars and pouches, and it’s not bland old sludge. I have discovered all sorts, some of which consist of combinations that you might hear mentioned as a part of a Masterchef finalist’s dish – Mango, Pear And Kale With A Dash Of Yoghurt, anyone? All I need to accomplish now is to teach Robin to eat directly from the pouch and then, well I still won’t quite be cooking on gas, but you know what I mean. I never thought I’d dream of the day I would throw food into the back of a moving vehicle for my child and be able to call it teatime, but here we are. bl Twitter: @marthalondon
For when time is of the essence, Piccolo’s o hes a e filled ith o gani goodness Piccolo Cherry & Yoghurt with Wholegrain Oats £1.10, waitrose.com
Next time – Martha shares the trials and tribulations of baby Robin’s first holiday
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 101
PREGNANCY
The birth you want Dr Asma Khalil, CON SU LTANT OBSTE TRICIAN AN D FE TAL M EDICIN E SPECIALIST AT TH E PORTL AN D H OSPITAL, DISCUSSE S ALTER NATIVE BIRTHING OP TION S he birth of your child is a special experience that will be individual for every mother, but in each case, a truly life-changing event. Developing a plan ahead of labour and reviewing the different options available can help to ensure it’s both a memorable and enjoyable experience.
T
ACTIVE BIRTH
What is it? During an active birth, mothers are encouraged to take control of their bodies and move around freely. They usually adopt upright positions during both labour and birth, instead of delivering in bed while on their back. An active labour might involve birthing balls and cushions to allow for comfortable sitting and kneeling, or items such as ropes, which can help support a squatting position. What are the benefits? Studies have found that an active birth can make the process of labour easier, more efficient and less painful. For example, upright positions can help to work with the force of gravity, and squatting positions can widen the pelvis outlet for the baby. Is it right for me? An active birth is all about listening to your body, so there may be elements you wish to incorporate into your birth plan, even if you don’t decide to choose this option for delivery. Many antenatal classes incorporate elements of the active birth philosophy into their agendas, so make sure you ask about it during your sessions. Active birth techniques are particularly useful in women who are not using other types of pain relief in labour, but they can also enhance the experience of women using other pain relief, including Entonox (gas and air), injections of morphine or pethidine, or an epidural.
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HYPNOBIRTHING
What is it? In recent years, we have seen an increase in the demand for hypnobirthing – or the use of hypnosis during labour. Hypnobirthing can help you feel calm and relaxed during labour, and more confident in the birthing process. It’s a form of self-hypnosis that triggers a physical and mental state of deep relaxation. What are the benefits? Expectant mothers may find the whole experience calmer and more relaxed, and they may feel more in control throughout. Is it right for me? The hypnobirthing technique can be modified to suit every woman. If a mother is interested in approaching the birth with this technique, I usually advise she researches hypnobirthing early on in her pregnancy, as with more practice it usually comes more easily when required. Even women who have an epidural for pain relief can still benefit from continuing to use hypnobirthing techniques.
WATER BIRTH
What is it? A water birth, where a woman spends much of her labour in a pool of water at body temperature, can provide a relaxing environment during labour. Some women will spend much of their labour in the pool, but come out of the water for the birth; others will stay in the pool to deliver their baby there. However, sometimes hours submerged in the pool can become uncomfortable, and might prevent the mother from staying mobile, so we usually advise women to enter the pool once they are at least 4cm dilated. What are the benefits? The relaxing nature and feeling of weightlessness in water can, in many cases,
ease the pain during labour, and is therefore a natural option for mums-to-be who are wary of medical intervention, as contractions are often more manageable. It is also much easier to move around and change into different positions. Often the woman’s partner will get into the pool, too, to support her. Once your baby is born, it needs to be lifted with its face out of the water so it can breathe – your midwife will do this or help you to do it yourself, if you prefer. This is because the oxygen supply from the placenta will stop at some stage soon after the birth, and because baby’s circulation at birth changes its lungs must therefore fill with air. Is it right for me? It is important to note that water births are suitable only for low-risk pregnancies, as the water can make it more difficult for your doctor to assess the baby’s wellbeing by monitoring its heartbeat. However, some maternity units have telemetry which allows your baby’s wellbeing to be monitored, even when you are in the water. Epidurals are also not suitable for mothers who choose to give birth in water, as they require the mother to be connected to a drip; there would also be a risk of infection getting into the place where the epidural has been inserted in her back. Water births might not be for everyone, so if you find the experience too uncomfortable, feel free to leave the pool at any time and consider the other options available to you. There are a range of options out there for mothers-to-be; however, the most important thing is that it works for you. I always urge expectant mothers to research their options and raise any concerns with your network of professionals, who are all there to support you in bringing your child into the world safely and, as far as possible, on your own terms.
PREGNANCY
DOS AND DON’TS Remember, there is no right or wrong way when it comes to your birth plan
DO: • Think about what will make you most comfortable and relaxed. • Make sure you attend antenatal classes before developing your plan, as they will help give you some ideas. • Remember that birth plans are rarely the same – there is no right or wrong! • Keep a record of your birth plan, and make sure you share it with your midwife or consultant. • Keep an open mind. Make a plan that suits you but be prepared to consider your options if things change during labour.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
DON’T: • Make your birth plan too prescriptive. It should only be a guide, so don’t put pressure on yourself to follow it exactly. • Leave out your birthing partner. • Forget to ask questions! It’s important parents feel confident, and the more you know, the more you will feel reassured.
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HEALTH
I’M PLANNING TO BREASTFEED, CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT MASTITIS IS?
meet
the
EXPERTS OU R H E ALTHCAR E PROFE SSIONAL S AN SWER YOU R QU E STION S ABOUT PR EGNANC Y AN D BEYON D
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Mastitis is a breast infection which is normally the result of a clogged duct or an infection carried from baby to mum via cracked or sore nipples. If you have mastitis, there are a few symptoms to look out for. The most common are headaches, intense pains, tender breasts, redness, fever, cracked nipples, flu-like symptoms and generally feeling unwell. If you think you have mastitis, you must contact your GP straight away. Antibiotics will be prescribed and you should notice your fever dropping within 24 hours, with the soreness calming down after 36 hours. If you have mastitis, you must be sure to go to bed and stay there – you need to rest! Apply a heat pad to the area using a hot water bottle or warm wet towel, or have a warm bath or shower. You should never apply an ice pack. Continue to nurse frequently to keep the milk flowing and avoid engorgement. Be sure to drink lots of fluids, too. Occasionally, baby may not nurse well from an infected breast as the milk can taste salty from the infection. If your baby is refusing or fussing, offer the uninfected breast and express the infected breast. Deearna Withey, founder of Deearna’s Maternity Agency
HEALTH WE’VE WORKED TO SAFEGUARD OUR HOME SINCE HAVING OUR 14-MONTH-OLD, BUT IS THERE ANYTHING WE NEED TO THINK ABOUT WHEN WE’RE PLAYING OUTSIDE WITH HIM?
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
I’M 32 WEEKS AND MY MIDWIFE HAS SUGGESTED I HAVE A GROWTH SCAN. WHAT IS THIS AND HOW IMPORTANT IS IT? A third trimester ultrasound is not necessary for all women but if your midwife has specifically recommended this, then it may be to check for any complications or to assess the size, anatomy and wellbeing of your baby. There is usually nothing to be concerned about. The scan may also be simply to assess the position of the baby as you near your delivery date, or to review things following on from something that was picked up during your last ultrasound. Often, if you have experienced worrying symptoms such as pain, contractions, reduced foetal movement or vaginal bleeding, or have an underlying condition (such as high blood pressure), your doctor will probably send you in for a third trimester ultrasound. Conditions like this could influence the growth of your baby, so it is a good idea to keep a close eye on foetal development. This scan may also be undertaken due to having twins, as twins are at greater risk of growth issues. Privately, many women opt for a growth scan to provide reassurance that baby is growing well and to enjoy the experience of seeing their baby on 3D or 4D images. Ultrasound scans are totally safe, so many couples choose to have a growth scan for their own peace of mind and for memories. On the NHS, if you have a straightforward pregnancy then you will not have any further scans after about 20 weeks. I would advise anyone hoping to conceive to plan their pregnancy with their GP, taking into account diet, wellbeing, any underlying conditions and risk factors. Each individual will need to prepare for a baby in a different way to maximise the chances of a healthy, happy pregnancy. I look after our pregnant members in this same way; it is important to improve health literacy surrounding pregnancy not only for women but also their partners and families; who often play a huge supporting role. Dr Anuj Chaturvedi, medical director and GP at HealthClic
Toddlers fall over repeatedly, run into things, stand up underneath things and put things in their mouths. They’re head-heavy, headstrong and totally devoid of any risk awareness, so it’s vital that we remain one step ahead. When you’re out and about, always strap them into the buggy and avoid overloading it with shopping. Particularly if you have another child on the buggyboard. Discourage little ones from eating plants or putting things they find on the ground in their mouths, and be sure to check their hands for dog feces, as this is particularly dangerous. Always apply appropriate suncream (and remember to reapply after swimming), cover up and keep them out of midday sun. If you’re near water, never leave them unattended, even for a second. Toddlers can drown in just a couple of centimetres of water. Children this age are prone to poking their fingers into hinges and small spaces. Keep them clear of the buggy when it’s being folded and don’t let them play with bike chains or park gates. Also be aware of swings and other moving play equipment in the park or garden. It’s always a good idea to carry saline pods to irrigate their eyes, particularly if they are playing in a sandpit or dusty area. Always supervise them on play equipment, especially when there are older children around, as toddlers do like to copy them. Finally, carry a small first aid kit to patch up any minor injuries, and I would always suggest that parents attend a practical or online first aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. Emma Hammett, founder of First Aid For Life
HOW MUCH CRYING IS NORMAL FOR A BABY, AND WHEN WILL I KNOW IF THERE’S A PROBLEM? On average, babies cry around 60 minutes a day. A healthy baby has an automatic capacity to settle without help from their parents. Studies show that crying often gets worse at about six weeks of age. You should be concerned if your child cries continuously for more than three hours in a row, more than three days a week, over a period of three weeks or more. Research suggests that up to 30% of babies cry excessively. It usually starts at two weeks and can go on until the age of six months. There are a variety of possible medical causes for this, which include rhinitis – an irritation or inflammation inside the nose; reflux – frequently associated with a cow’s milk protein intolerance; urinary tract infections, a hernia, an intestinal intussusception or gut malformation or Meningitis, so contact your GP if you are worried about any of these. Unfortunately soothing measures such as massage, homeopathy, and even some commonly used medication, lack reliable evidence as a remedy, but a regular feeding and sleep routine which creates a predictable secure environment is important. Try to avoid excessive sensory stimulus, or allowing yourself to become overtired and emotionally exhausted. You should also try to avoid ‘misunderstandings’ – an example of this is when baby turns their head away. This usually means the baby has had enough and needs space. If anxious parents misinterpret this as rejection, they may attempt to play more with baby. This could make the child cry and affect their ability to settle. Dr Robert Arlt MD, consultant paediatrician at Richmond Practice
OUR PANEL
Emma Hammett fi staid o li e.o g.
Dr Anuj Chaturvedi
Dr Robert Arlt MD
healthclic.co.uk
richmondpractice.co.uk
Deearna Withey deea nas mate nity agen y. o.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 105
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Time to Talk
THE ZIKA VIRUS Marina Fogle & Dr Chiara Hunt TH E SISTER S DISCUSS TH E ISSU E OF ZIK A IN PR EGNAN C Y couple of years ago, few people were familiar with the word Zika. Spread by daytime-active mosquitoes, its name comes from the forest in Uganda where it was first identified in the 1940s. For decades it was confined to a narrow area along the equator in Africa and Asia, and appeared to pose no serious health risk. But a few years ago it started spreading eastwards into the Americas and as more people became infected, it emerged that there was a correlation with Zika and brain defects in the unborn children of those who had been infected. The danger of Zika is not so much for the person affected – symptoms are mostly mild. The real risk is in pregnancy; we now know Zika can spread from a woman to her baby resulting serious birth defects, most commonly a condition called microcephaly. As a result, in 2016, the US Centre for Disease
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
A
Control & Prevention (CDC) issued travel notices, warning pregnant women, or couples trying to conceive, that visiting Zika areas would put their unborn child at risk. Here is our guide to managing Zika in pregnancy: What if I’ve already been to a Zika area while pregnant? Your GP will recommend that you be tested. This will either be a blood or urine test. If you test positive for Zika, obstetricians will keep a close eye on the development of your baby. What is microcephaly? Babies born with microcephaly have smaller heads because the brain has not developed normally during pregnancy. While they generally survive birth, these children frequently have intellectual disability, poor motor function and speech, abnormal facial features and seizures. There is no treatment, and usually
babies with the condition have reduced life expectancy.
unless you get tested and have a negative result.
What if I’ve booked a holiday and can’t get my money back? Don’t go – it’s just not worth it. You could try asking your travel insurance company if it will cover cancellation fees.
If I have Zika and am pregnant, what are the chances that our baby will have a brain defect? Neonatal outcomes take years to determine, so there is no accurate data on this yet. That said, the risk of Zika to unborn children is significant so always follow the advice from the CDC.
What if my partner has visited a Zika area while I’m pregnant? He needs to be tested. Because Zika can be passed on through sex, you should not have sex without using condoms before the results are back. We are trying to conceive but have just visited a Zika area, what should we do? The advice is for women to wait eight weeks before trying. However, because Zika stays for longer in sperm, men need to wait for six months. So if you have both travelled, you both need to wait for six months
Where do we need to avoid? This is often changing, so check the cdc.gov website before you travel. Broadly, travel notices have been issued in parts of Central Africa, Central America, South America, the Caribbean and some Pacific islands. Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South Kensington and Parsons Green. thebumpclasss.com
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DEVELOPMENT
In the
SWIM
of things
Paul Thompson, FOU N DER OF WATER BABIE S, E XPL AIN S TH E BEN EFITS OF TAKING TO TH E POOL WITH YOU R LIT TLE ON E
id you know that babies have the natural ability to swim? This is due to two intelligent reflexes: the swimming reflex and the dive reflex. The former means baby will move their arms and legs in a swimming motion when supported in the water while tummy-side down; the latter means your baby can hold their breath and open their eyes when underwater. These reflexes are strongest in the first six months of life. And the NHS advises you can take your baby swimming any time before and after their immunisations – so it’s never too
D
soon to get them in the pool, as long as the water’s warm enough (above 30˚C for a baby older than 12 weeks or heavier than 12lbs, and 32˚C if they’re younger or smaller). Baby swimming originally evolved out of a desire to ensure they were safe and confident in water. However, the exercises used to teach this confidence – gentle rocking, reaching for objects, kicking movements and learning to respond to commands – also provide stimulation for your baby’s brain. In the first year of their life, the brain develops more rapidly than at any other time, and swimming
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RUNNING HEAD
BABIES CAN EXERCISE MANY MORE MUSCLES IN THE WATER THAN THEY CAN ON LAND with your baby can have an extremely positive effect on this development – even more reason to take to the water with your little one as early as possible.
DEVELOPMENT OF MOTOR SKILLS Babies love the repetitive movement of bouncing and splishing and splashing in the pool, and this movement provides fantastic stimulation for the vestibular system, which allows us to sense motion and to balance. As this system matures, it will help a baby to keep their head upright, pull themselves up onto their feet, balance, and eventually walk. Chasing after bright and colourful toys in the pool, and grasping them to bring them closer for a good old chew, is a great exercise for enhancing hand-eye coordination. The cross-lateral movement of reaching out is the same one used in crawling. This teaches both sides of the brain to work together, not only helping to coordinate physical movements but also strengthening nerve pathways between the two sides, helping the brain store and retrieve information more effectively – all great for learning! One study recently carried out in Iceland (where baby swimming is extremely popular in the country’s thermal pools) concluded that, when tested at the age of four, children who had attended baby swimming lessons from a young age showed significantly better balance than their peers. Their ball skills and dexterity were also tested, with the early water babies achieving better results.
TOP SWIMMING AIDS
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT It‘s not only motor skills which are benefited by swimming; physically it is wonderful for your baby, and the only form of exercise they can do literally from birth. Just half an hour in the pool can provide a complete work-out for them (and you!) and parents often comment that their little ones eat and sleep better on the days they go swimming. Babies can exercise many more muscles
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BABY FLOAT For a supported introduction to the water, this is a great option for babies once they’re able to maintain a sitting position. £15, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
SEVYLOR PUDDLE JUMPER This all-in-one device is an arm and chest floatation that provides an upright positioning in the water, and fastens at the back. £17.99, sevylor-europe.com
Forget the hassle of individual armbands and swim rings with this all-in-one aid
DEVELOPMENT
in the water than they can on land, and amazingly can swim short distances unaided from when they are tiny. Sessions in the pool are great for strengthening arm, leg and neck muscles, and are superb for tiny lungs and cardiovascular fitness. Swimming will not only make your baby fitter and stronger, you will also notice the difference in their physical ability on land, where regular swimmers have often been shown to crawl and walk earlier than their non-swimming peers.
EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT As babies learn how to manoeuvre in the water on their own, their independence and self-confidence blossoms, and they enjoy being in the pool more and more. Where they might be very dependant on you in the early days, a few months on, a baby will happily swim a short distance between you and the instructor, or splash off the poolside and into the water all by themselves. The confidence and self-esteem involved in learning to swim will often then be transferred into other aspects of their life. For a toddler, the thrill of grasping a new skill in their lesson, or achieving something they have been working up to for a while, will be evident in their ear-to-ear grins – and may also give them the confidence to try new things and increase their interest in learning in general. Last, but certainly not least, is the benefit of all the fun you and your baby can have together in the pool, and just how much they’ll love it. So enjoying a swim every week, with all these added benefits, is surely conducive to a dip!
LOCAL CLASSES
PHOTOGRAPHY: IAN TAYLOR FOR WATER BABIES PRODUCT REVIEWS: LAURA MASON
Water Babies waterbabies.co.uk Little Dippers littledippers.co.uk
SUNUVA FLOATSUIT This adorable, quick-drying floatsuit will ensure baby not only looks super stylish, but will be safe in the water and protected from UV rays too. £42, sunuva.com
SWIMFIN SwimFin is worn on your little one’s back, allowing total freedom around the arms and better natural movement in the water. £22.99, swimfin.co.uk
KONFIDENCE ORIGINAL SWIM JACKET Suitable for babies from 18 months, this buoyant jacket straps on securely to provide confidence and security. £24.99, konfidence.co.uk
Swimming Rocks swimmingrocks.co.uk Turtle Tots turtletots.com Puddle Ducks puddleducks.com
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SHOPPING
THE REVIEW
TH ER E’S NO E ASIER WAY TO GE T AROU N D THIS SUMM ER THAN WITH A QUALIT Y BABY CAR RIER . Laura Mason PUTS FIVE FAVOU RITE S TO TH E TE ST
Best
BACK CARRIER
Best for
NEWBORNS
Best
WRAP
Best for DADS
Most
STYLISH
Check out the cool denim and leaf-print designs in the range, too
STOKKE
CYBEX
WE MADE ME
BABYBJÖRN
FORNESSI
Suitable for babies from four weeks, this carrier is the best I’ve tested in terms of weight distribution on the front and back. As baby grows, they go from front to rear facing, and then on your back. The design fits around your body, with adjustable features to ensure that both parent and baby are comfortable. £129, stokke.com
This carrier from Cybex’s Birds of Paradise collection features three ergonomic positions – front and rear facing, along with a unique side positioning that perches on the hip. Combining a blend of elasticated fabric and strapping, this is a strong and modern carrier that will appeal to styleconscious parents. £200, harrods.com
The Pao can be used from a weight of 8lbs, thanks to a detachable insert that fits neatly inside this ergonomic carrier. The infant insert has been designed to provide additional padding as baby faces the parent. As they grow, the carrier offers varying settings to ensure comfort for both parties. £129.99, wemademe.com
With a refreshing new focus on fathers, this design is great for dads who need confidence when it comes to baby wearing. The latest Babybjörn One has been designed and modelled by fathers, with men in mind – think padded straps, lockable zips and a sturdy waistband to boot. £134.99, babybjorn.co.uk
This eco-friendly wrap is made from tree fibres, making it super soft with plenty of stretch to provide the perfect cocoon. The carrier moulds to your baby to support their back, legs and hips as they grow. With no complicated buckles or settings, the tying process quickly becomes second nature. £59, fornessi.com
MyCarrier
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Yema
Pao Carrier Deluxe
Baby Carrier One
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INTERIORS
interior
NEWS
ST YLISH U PDATE S AN D IN SPIRING FIN DS TO MAKE YOU R HOUSE A H OM E
FINAL FLOURISH
British interiors brand Hibou Home has added to its range of wallpapers, bedding and fabrics with a beautiful cushion collection inspired by the line-drawn detail of its wallpaper range. Printed on organic cotton for super-soft comfort, choose from teepee, feather and bear designs for the boys, with swans, crowns and moons for girls. A perfect way of adding subtle splashes of colour to a Scandi-inspired nursery. From £22.50, hibouhome.com
THE ART OF PLAY
COMPILED BY: KATE FREUD
There’s nothing quite as lovely as a patchwork blanket, but new London brand Too Many PJs has taken the art form to a whole other level with its quilted playmats and sensory toys. Made from screen-printed fabrics on organic cotton, these pieces are designed to be passed down through generations. Playmats from £59, toomanypjs.com
The label’s braided storage baskets are perfect for storing excess toys
MADE WITH LOVE
DARLING DETAILS
Add a unique touch to your little one’s bedroom with this beautiful felt feather mobile from Hedgehog. Handcrafted by women in India under fair trade guidelines, using only organic lambswool felt, its design is inspired by native American folk art and crafts. £40, hedgehogshop.co.uk
Addie & Harry is a gorgeous homeware brand selling everything from bedding to cushions that will please mother and baby in equal measure. The wallpapers will add magic to baby’s nursery, and the furniture you’ll want to keep long after they have grown up. Storage baskets from £16, addieandharry.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 115
UNDER CANVAS
Let us count the reasons why we love the humble teepee! They can be used for imaginative play whatever the weather, act as a great storage solution, and offer little ones a place of their ‘own’, helping to develop motor and social skills. Clockwise from top left: Nobodinoz has teepees available in a range of cheerful prints (£129, mollymeg.com); if you want something to blend in, Kids Concept’s tent will look stylish in any room of the house (£119, allmamaschildren.com); play ‘peekaboo’ at the windows of Numero 74’s design (£139.32, en.smallable.com); fold back the opening of this style to reveal a trendy monochrome print (£100, thetipi.co.uk).
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The Mummy & Baby Co. is a new brand containing classic and traditional pieces for babies & toddlers. It offers stylish baby wear along with Nursery decor & accessories, providing you with a one stop destination for all things beautiful for baby. You can shop the full collection at www.themummyandbabyco.com and don’t forget to check out their social media outlets @themummyandbabyco for exclusive offers.
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FOOD
food
NEWS Vanessa Clarkson’s recipes appeal to all ages, so you’ll spend less time cooking multiple meals
WE BRING TO TH E TABLE TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST FOOD FOR TH E SMALLE ST OF DIN ER S
A HEAD START
Nutritionist Vanessa Clarkson’s first book, Real Food for Babies & Toddlers, calls for parents to learn how to read their little one’s cues during weaning, introducing them to ‘real’ food, and a variety of tastes and textures, as opposed to just spoon-feeding purées. Featuring more than 80 seasonal recipes suitable for the whole family, there’ll be no need to make separate meals for baby. £14.99, Murdoch Books
PICKY EATERS Help baby on their weaning journey with Kiddylicious’s My First Wafer. The new finger food is made with rice flour, fruit and veg, and contains 50% less sugar than standard rusks. Flavours include Sweet Potato & Banana. £1.30 (five individual twin packs), ocado.com
A COLD BLEND There’s a new face in the baby food aisle that might look familiar. Smoothie brand Savsé’s My First Savsé pouches include a blend of fruit and vegetables that have been coldpressed to maintain the quality of vitamins and minerals for maximum goodness. £1.49 each, ocado.com
FLEXIBLE FEEDING Annabel Karmel’s Baby-Led Weaning Recipe Book is the latest title from the queen of infant nutrition. With more than 120 recipe ideas, from breakfast and snacks to poultry and fish, it offers a flexible approach to weaning – whether you want to try baby-led weaning exclusively, or combine it with spoonfeeding. £8, Pindock Publishing
THIS YEAR SEES INFANT FOODIE FAVOURITE ORGANIX CELEBRATE ITS 25TH BIRTHDAY. OVER THAT TIME, THE BRAND HAS SOLD MORE THAN 1.6 BILLION RICE CAKES – THAT’S ENOUGH TO SHARE WITH ONE FIFTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION! HERE’S TO ANOTHER 25 YEARS OF BABY BITES… ORGANIX.COM
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RUNNING HEAD
Madeleine prepares the tray-roasted cod â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one of her favourite dishes from the book
Cooking with
Madeleine Shaw TH E N UTRITIONAL COACH AN D FOODIE SHAR E S R ECIPE S FROM H ER N EW BOOK , AS SH E TALKS ABOUT H ER PR EGNANC Y AN D IM PEN DING MOTH ER HOOD
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RUNNING HEAD
adeleine Shaw has never been about fad diets or deprivation (amen to that), but she has always been an advocate for eating seasonally. “Seasonal foods have evolved that way because that’s what your body needs at the time,” she says. “Providing your body with what it wants is a great way to keep it happy and healthy.” So it comes as no surprise her latest book, A Year of Beautiful Eating, focuses on the importance of eating in tune with nature. From light papaya and peanut salads in summer to indulgent coconut chocolate cookies in the winter, these recipes are Madeleine’s answer to ensure wholesome eating every day of the year. But has she found, 30 weeks into her first pregnancy, cravings have got the better of her? “In the beginning it was Softmints, but then I ate loads in one day and felt really unwell,” she says. “I also had an aversion to fruit, but thankfully that’s passed now! I’m grazing a lot – I’m always hungry so I love to have a big plate of chopped veggies or fruit to hand. “On the whole, pregnancy has been great. Tiredness has been the most challenging aspect – I’ve had no choice but to slow down. “Looking ahead, I know motherhood will change my focus for sure, but I’m excited about this new path,” she smiles.
M
TRAY-ROASTED COD WITH OLIVES, SMOKED PAPRIKA AND ASPARAGUS INGREDIENTS (Serves 4)
• 1½ tsp sweet smoked paprika • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 4 x 150g cod fillets • 200ml fish or chicken stock • 200g pitted green olives • 2 tbsp capers • bunch of asparagus, trimmed • 3 tbsp avocado oil or melted butter • 1 lemon METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Mix the smoked paprika, garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper together and rub the mixture into the cod. Then pour the stock into a large roasting tray and scatter in the olives, capers and asparagus. Nestle the cod fillets amongst the veggies and pour the avocado oil over the fish. Thinly slice the lemon into 1cm slivers and place around the cod fillets. Sprinkle salt over the entire dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the asparagus and cod are cooked through. Serve hot.
SWEETCORN FRITTERS WITH TOMATO SALSA AND AVOCADO INGREDIENTS (Makes 6 fritters)
• 250g uncooked corn kernels • 2 eggs • 1 garlic clove, crushed • big pinch of salt • ½ tsp ground coriander • ½ tsp ground cumin • ½ tsp smoked paprika • ½ tsp baking powder • 2 spring onions, chopped • 3 tbsp chopped fresh coriander • 3 tbsp porridge oats • 1 tbsp coconut oil • 1 avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced • 1 lime, cut into wedges For the salsa • ½ red chilli, deseeded and chopped • 1 beef tomato, diced • 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil • ¼ red onion, finely chopped • 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp red wine vinegar • pinch of salt METHOD
Place three quarters of the corn in a food processor along with the eggs, garlic and salt. Blend until smooth. Add the rest of the corn, the spices, baking powder, spring onions, fresh coriander and oats, and process for 10 seconds. Then pour the fritter mixture into a bowl. Melt the coconut oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Pour 2 tablespoons of mixture into the pan to form a fritter. Fry for 3 minutes on one side, then flip over and cook for another minute until cooked through. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the rest of the mixture to make 6 fritters. To make the salsa, mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl. Serve the fritters with slices of avocado, the salsa and wedges of lime to squeeze over.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 121
RUNNING HEAD RHUBARB AND COCONUT RICE PUDDING “This is the most comforting dish – and any leftover rhubarb compote is great on top of porridge or toast,” says Madeleine. “Pudding rice can be hard to find – trust me, it took some time! But if you can’t find it, just use short-grain or basmati rice.” INGREDIENTS (Serves 2) • 500ml rice milk or other milk • 200g coconut cream • 1 vanilla pod • 1 cinnamon stick • 1 cardamom pod • 1 tbsp maple syrup • 120g pudding rice or short-grain rice • 2 tbsp flaked almonds, to serve • extra maple syrup, to serve (optional)
For the compote • 2 rhubarb stalks • 2 tbsp maple syrup
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• grated zest and juice of 1 orange METHOD
First make the compote. Finely chop the rhubarb into 1cm pieces. Place in a saucepan with the maple syrup and orange zest and juice. Bring to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked. Keep warm to serve with the rice pudding. Put the milk, coconut cream, vanilla pod, cinnamon stick, cardamom pod and maple syrup in another pot, over a medium to low heat. Bring to a simmer and cook gently for 10 minutes. Then bring to the boil and add the rice. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring well, until the rice is cooked through. Take out the cinnamon stick, vanilla pod and cardamom pod (if you can find them). Serve the rice pudding with a dollop of the compote and sprinkled with flaked almonds, plus a drizzle of maple syrup if needed.
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WHATEVER TH E WE ATH ER , ENJOY TH E SE PER FEC T FAMILY R ECIPE S AL FR E SCO OR AROU N D TH E KITCH EN TABLE
This summer fruit purée will make a tasty addition to a grown-up dessert
B A N A N A , S T R AW B E R RY & P E AC H P U R É E W I T H A HINT OF MINT Preparation: 20 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing Makes 4 portions
This summer fruit recipe allows for the sweet taste of strawberries and peaches to combine with creamy banana to make a smooth purée. INGREDIENTS
• 2 ripe peaches • 6 strawberries, hulled • ½ banana, peeled • 1 fresh mint leaf METHOD
Prepare a bowl of ice cold water. Score crosses onto the top and bottom of the peaches and place in a pan of boiling water. After 30 seconds, remove the peaches and place into the bowl of ice water and leave for 1 minute. Take out the peaches and you should be able to remove the skin easily. Cut the peaches in half and remove the stone. Place the peaches, strawberries, banana and mint leaf in a blender and blend until smooth. Tip: You can use tinned peaches too, but buy the ones in fruit juice, not syrup.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 125
FOOD These delicious lollies are packed with beta-carotene and vitamin A
ZEST Y SUMME R ICE- LOLLIES Preparation: 20 minutes (freeze overnight) Makes 6 ice lollies
T O M AT O & B A S I L R I C O T TA TA R T Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 40 minutes Makes 8 toddler servings
This is a great picnic recipe! You can also use courgette instead of tomato if you want to change things up. INGREDIENTS
• 1 roll of filo or puff pastry • 4 tbsp of olive oil • 250g ricotta cheese • 300g mixed tomatoes, sliced 2cm thick • 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil, plus extra for topping • 2 tsp chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for topping • 1 tsp lemon zest • Salt and pepper, to taste
METHOD
Heat the oven to 180˚C. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. If using filo pastry, place 1 sheet of pastry on the parchment paper. Brush lightly with olive oil. Top with another sheet of filo, and brush
lightly with oil. Repeat until all the filo sheets are stacked. Otherwise, roll out the puff pastry to fit the tray. Place a piece of baking paper over the top of the pastry, and line with baking beans or rice to blind bake the pastry for 20-25 minutes. While the pastry is cooking, make the filling. Slice the tomatoes, cutting out any extra seeds in the larger tomatoes to reduce the amount of liquid. Sprinkle with a little salt and allow to rest. In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, basil, parsley, lemon zest and salt and pepper until well combined. Once the pastry is cooked, take it out of the oven and leave to cool for 5-10 minutes. Spread the ricotta mixture over the top of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges. Drain the excess liquid from the tomatoes and place on top of the ricotta. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Bake for 25 minutes until dough is golden brown and flaky. Cool the tart slightly. Top with more chopped basil and parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature. Tip: For a dairy-free option, make a tomato sauce base and mix in some sundried
These refreshing ice lollies make a great chilled treat for the summer months, and are crammed full of vitamins! The combination of orange and carrot is a winner. INGREDIENTS
• 4 large carrots, peeled • 3 medium oranges or 4 tangerines (you can also use fresh orange juice) METHOD
Blend the carrots in a juicer and either use the pulp and the juice or, using a muslin or clean tea towel, place all the blended carrot in the material and squeeze out the juice into a measuring jug and discard the pulp (you could use this in a savoury muffin or add to an omelette or sauce). Zest the oranges and add to the carrot juice, then juice the oranges. Add the orange juice to the carrot juice and zest mixture. Pour the mixture into lolly moulds and freeze overnight. Tip: You can use pretty much any fruit and vegetable combination you like to make these ice lollies, and you don’t need to add any sugar. To make a creamier ice lolly, mix the fruit with yoghurt or coconut milk.
All recipes and tips by Alice Fotheringham, infant nutrition specialist at Piccolo. Piccolo is an organic baby food brand with roots in the Mediterranean approach to feeding children. The brand supports the NCT and gives 10% of its profits to food education. Visit online at mylittlepiccolo.com to find out more and receive an extra exclusive discount off your next pouch.
126 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
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MAMA MINIBREAK We’ve long known about the wonders of hypnobirthing, and now you can combine classes with a babymoon, as the The Positive Birth Company launches its luxury Devonshire retreats. Founder Siobhan Miller already offers classes in London and is extending her base in the West Country to allow couples the opportunity to undertake hypnobirthing classes as well as enjoy yoga, massage and good food. From £1,095 per couple, thepositivebirthcompany.co.uk
WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW JET, SET AND GO For the ultimate in stress-free travel, private jet company JetSmarter will be running additional shuttle services to Nice, Malaga and Ibiza this summer. Wave goodbye to waiting around at the airport – simply arrive 15 minutes before take-off. When on board, little ones can meet the pilot! Membership from £3,900 per year for unlimited travel to selected European cities, jetsmarter.com
NEW RESEARCH FROM MONEY-SAVING WEBSITE VOUCHERCODESPRO.CO.UK HAS REVEALED THE MOST POPULAR HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS FOR YOUNG FAMILIES. THE CANARY ISLANDS TOPPED THE POLL AT 27%, FOLLOWED BY THE BALEARICS (22%), WHILE 19% OF FAMILIES OPT FOR A STAYCATION TO CORNWALL.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 129
Spot ornate buildings from the river in Ho Chi Minh City
ª Postcard from…
VIETNAM
Louise Pyne EXPLORES SOUTH-E AST ASIA WITH HER T WO-YE AR-OLD SON
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Little Leo gets in some chopstick practice
The palm-fringed Cua Dai beach is located just off the streets of Hoi An
body wraps to ocean-inspired facials on offer, plus a sauna, steam room, beauty salon and hair salon. After a week in the big smoke, it was time to head to our second destination, the quaint town of Hoi An. Located in central Vietnam, just an hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An’s colourful lantern-lit cobbled streets are made for families. We whiled away the days in the old town, browsing boutiques and soaking up the town’s café culture while chatting to the friendly locals. The picturesque river front also gives you the chance to explore the tranquil surroundings by boat, for an hour or so. Hoi An is also a bicycle-friendly town so it made sense for us to rent a mountain bike (which came fitted with a child seat) for an afternoon of sightseeing. We meandered through the stunning patchwork of rice paddies, spotted exotic birds and water buffalo, and watched farmers tending to the land wearing their traditional conical hats. Leo was in awe. And after we’d had our fill of town and country life, it was time to hit the powder-soft sands of Cua Dai beach, where we had plenty of fun making sandcastles in the sunshine. Two wonderful weeks later, it was time to return to London. All three of us knew we would miss the laidback locals and colourful culture. Vietnam is a very special place, and we’d go back in a heartbeat! thereveriesaigon.com
The vibrant streets of Hoi An
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
ith as much a spirit of adventure as a sense of trepidation at the thought of taking our toddler, Leo, halfway across the world, we set off on an epic 12-hour plane ride to Vietnam’s cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City happens to be far more of a family destination than you might assume. While this sprawling metropolis is pretty chaotic, it also offers a perfect mix of activity and relaxation that’s suited to family life. Ho Chi Minh City is the place where you can spend the morning marvelling at mega malls, skyscrapers, street markets and Buddhist temples, yet kick back for some quality family time come the afternoon. We were staying at The Reverie, a sky-high hotel located in the heart of the city, which offered a welcome break from the hustle and bustle. The huge outdoor pool was our go-to hangout, providing plenty of splashing fun for Leo and sun-soaking time for mum and dad. When it comes to dining options, The Reverie is in a class of its own. With five restaurants serving everything from local cuisine to Italian and Chinese dishes, the chefs are more than happy to make childfriendly meals off the menu that will suit even the fussiest of toddlers. And before our stay in Ho Chi Minh City came to an end, I made a conscious effort to fit in an afternoon session at the hotel’s state-of-the-art spa, where you’ll find everything from salt crystal
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I DREAMED OF
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o jet lag; wildlife at every turn; English-speaking; kid-loving and unbelievably good value for money. Cape Town and the surrounding region has lots going for it when it comes to family travel. Combine all this with epic drives between the most family-orientated self-catering accommodation out there – darting between beachfront huts, wild farmsteads and stone cottages on ancient lagoons – and you’ve got a pretty wonderful family holiday. Depending on how long you have, how good your kids are in the car and what’s top of the agenda (wine-tasting, kite-surfing or safari), here is a mix and match guide to family travel in Cape Town and the Western Cape:
CAPE TOWN However well it goes, a 10-hour flight with little ones will take its toll. Head straight to boutique aparthotel More Quarters (morequarters.co.za) to recover. Here you’ll be welcomed by a soothing lounge, the friendliest of staff and homemade iced tea. Apartments
vary from one to three bedroom, tucked away on a pretty cobbled road off trendy Kloof Street. It also has everything you could ever want for the kids, including toys, cots, high chairs, snacks and babysitters. Early the next morning (if you can resist spending two hours over corn fritters and pastries at breakfast), head up to Table Mountain for sweeping views and a chance to get your bearings. Over to the east is Cape Town’s Hackney – edgy, arty coffee shops and markets centred around Woodstock. To the west is the V&A Waterfront where kids will love the big wheel, watching street performers and spotting seals popping up to say hi to the fisherman and tourist boats. Once you’ve had your fix of wandering and shopping, hit the beach. Clifton Fourth Beach is popular with families, but just around the headland, Camps Bay is slightly more accessible (with no steps) and has a toddler-friendly tidal pool. When refreshment calls, escape the crowds by heading up to The Roundhouse’s Rumbullion
The breathtaking view from Betty’s Bay, Overberg
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Head to the Vineyard Hotel for a charming brunch on the lawns
Slaley Beach Cottage – the prettiest Airbnb in town
(theroundhouserestaurant.com) lawn for a picnic or sundowners with a view; it’s here that The Twelve Apostles – a collection of limestone stacks – dramatically cascade down into the sea.
CONSTANTIA, CLAREMONT AND CAPE PENINSULA Cape Town is cocooned by mountains, vineyards and sea, making it easy to escape the urban bustle. The Tarragon (thetarragon.com) in Hout Bay is a laidback base from which to explore Cape Town’s greener side. Several selfcatering apartments are nestled into the side of the mountain with views down to the sea. Pretty gardens with a pool, roaming wildfowl and huge purple giraffe statues will keep kids of all ages entertained. Ensure a day to explore the Cape Peninsula itself; enjoy surfer hangouts in Muizenberg, ice creams in Simon’s Town, penguins at Boulders Beach and zebra and baboon sightings in Cape Point National Park. When hunger calls back in Hout Bay, feast on seafood at the childfriendly Dunes restaurant on the beach or the slightly grittier Fish on the Rocks in the old harbour. Up over the hills from Hout Bay are the vineyards and mansions of Constantia; Groot Constantia (grootconstantia.co.za) is South Africa’s oldest wine-producing estate and is big enough for the children to romp about under the oaks while you enjoy a glass of Chardonnay in the sunshine. To the north of Table Mountain National Park is the leafy suburb of Claremont. Kirstenbosch Gardens is a beautiful spot for
134 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
• If you want your trip planned ahead, get in touch with Sally & Alice (sallyandalice.com) which specialises in family travel in Africa. • Hiring a car is the easiest way to get around; make sure you have enough boot space for baby clobber and watch out for Google sending you down dirt roads. • July and August are chillier but blue skies are plentiful and tourist attractions tend to be quieter; December to March is peak season due to the warm weather; September to November is the best time for whale-watching. • To enter South Africa with kids, you need their birth certificates. • No vaccinations or anti-malarial tablets are required for Cape Town or the Western Cape.
NO JET LAG, ENGLISH-SPEAKING, GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY – CAPE TOWN HAS LOTS GOING FOR IT a nature-filled morning of picnics and flower trails. Pop into the Vineyard Hotel (vineyard. co.za) for brunch served up with old-fashioned charm on the lawns. The hotel is famous for its mountain views and resident tortoises.
WEST COAST NATIONAL PARK When leaving the city, most people make a beeline for the garden route, so heading in the opposite direction can feel quite intrepid. Langebaan is a world-renowned kite surfing resort on the edge of West Coast National Park. Whether kite surfing is your thing or not, this laidback resort is a pleasant stop for seaside fun. There are lots of Airbnb hideaways in this area, but hands down the best is Slaley Beach Cottage. This corrugated
iron ‘villa’ is one of the oldest and prettiest holiday homes in town. There’s no Wi-Fi or TV, but with a west-facing veranda overlooking the sea and the beach for your backyard, simple pleasures remove any need for mod cons. Lazy days should include at least one seafood extravaganza; head to Die Strandloper (strandloper.com) for a fiesta on the beach, or Beaches (dining-out.co.za) in Yzerfontein for calamari on its shady terrace, which overlooks the 16-mile beach. For an afternoon paddling in balmy water and bird-watching, drive to Churchhaven, where rustic, wood-clad beach houses fringe the shallow lagoon beach.
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RUNNING HEAD Rent one of the cosy lodges at Mosaic Private Sanctuary, just outside of Stanford
and aquamarines of the seaside turn into deep browns and blues; welcoming you to big-sky country. Through quaint Darling and industrial Malmesbury, the landscape becomes prettier again in Swartland – a wine region home to South Africa’s oldest village, Riebeek Kasteel, which is worth a stop for pre-loved shops and organic cafés. For some of the finest hospitality out there, spend the next few nights at Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse (bartholomeusklip.com), a 10,000-hectare reserve. Kids aren’t allowed in the main lodge itself (although it’s worth making the most of the onsite babysitters to sneak out for a romantic dinner there at least one evening) so families get put up in their own cottage: Wild Olive House. Beautifully furnished with heaps of soul, staying here is a little bit like visiting your Great Aunt. Brunch, high tea and dinner is all brought to the house ready prepared, and Jonathan turns up daily in his Land Rover to take the whole family out on game drives. After spotting springbok, zebra, bat-eared foxes and ostrich all basking in the early sunlight, you can wander down to the boathouse for tea by the water or go for a paddle on the dam in a kayak. Later, the private pool at Wild Olive House helps wile away the hottest parts of the day – if the whole family doesn’t end up slumbering amongst swallows on the shady veranda. Explore the wonderful wilderness of Bartholomeus Klip estate
Spot springbok, zeb ra and more on a Bartholomeus Klip game drive
If anything can tear you away from the warm embrace of Bartholomeus Klip it’ll be the seriously slick wine estates of Franschhoek. While hopping on and off a wine tram from one estate to the next doesn’t sound particularly child-friendly, the reality is quite different. Head to the bigger estates like Boschendal (boschendal.com) for picnics and music concerts, or opt for a deli lunch at La Petite Ferme (lapetiteferme.co.za) where kids can play on the lawn as the adults enjoy the views of Franschhoek Valley. Watch out for the baboons that come down from the mountain in the late afternoon.
OVERBERG Meander back down to the coast to the foodie haven of Stanford, in between the whale-watching and shark-diving centres of Hermanus and Gansbaai. The drive is worth taking your time over; drifting over the famous Franschhoek Pass, skirting the epic Berg River
Dam and heading off-road when Google Maps fails you (it’s all part of the adventure). Stay at Mosaic Private Sanctuary (mosaicsouthafrica. com), just outside of Stanford, where families can rent cottages with cosy fire pits surrounded by thick fynbos bush, or the main house, which has views of Hermanus Lagoon. Meals can be pre-ordered to cook on the braai, and Mosaic Lagoon Lodge’s restaurant, which serves locally sourced dishes, is on the doorstep. Between the lagoon, sand dunes, fynbos trails and Walker Bay, activities like kayaking and mountain biking are plentiful.
BUT IS IT SAFE? This is the question asked by almost everyone before and after our trip. During two weeks of driving more than 200 miles and staying in eight different places, we didn’t once feel threatened. Admittedly security is big business in South Africa; the electric fences and armed response team signs all over Cape Town can be unnerving. Sadly, this is the reality of living in a city trying to overcome a wealth of social problems. South Africa is a young country and a large proportion of people living in the Western Cape are working hard to make it a better place for everyone. This energy is infectious and is reason alone to visit. If you want to understand this first hand, go on an enlightening Uthando tour (uthandosa.org) of social projects in the townships.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 137
RUNNING HEAD
BABYMOONS WITH YOU R N EW AR RIVAL AROU N D TH E COR N ER , TH ER E’S N O BE T TER TIM E TO E SCAPE FOR A SPOT OF PAM PERING . Kate Freud CH ER RY PICKS TH E BE ST R E TR E ATS FOR PR E-BABY R EL A X ATION
La Réserve Genève, Geneva
What to expect: Nestled in the heart of a 10-acre park, on the serene shores of Lake Geneva, this unashamedly opulent hotel houses a five-star spa and suites that boast dark wood, leather, leopard print and gold leaf interiors reminiscent of an African lodge. Insider info: La Réserve is as peaceful as they come, with many guests spending their days in their robes and slippers. The prenatal treatment combining massage with a cellulite reduction technique is bliss, and post-baby it offers La Petite Réserve, where staff will look after children as young as six months. Rooms from £513, lareserve.ch
138 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
Coworth Park, Ascot
What to expect: Just 45 minutes from London, Coworth Park is country house grandeur without the airs and graces. If you can bring yourself to venture from your exquisite room – we’re talking four-poster beds, roll-top baths and marble bathrooms – head straight for Restaurant Coworth Park for a mouthwatering British feast. Insider info: For some light exercise, take a turn on the croquet lawn, explore the grounds by bike or take a dip in the pool. The spa’s exclusive pregnancy treatments include the Nurturing Envelopment, a full-body exfoliation and massage before being cocooned in a warming wrap. Rooms from £345, dorchestercollection.com
Lindos Blu, Rhodes
What to expect: Perched, tier-like, on a tranquil hillside, Lindos Blu will blow you away. It caters for adults only – so enjoy it while you can! The piercing blue sea beautifully offsets the minimalist architecture, but there’s no scrimping on luxuries inside. Upon arrival you’ll be greeted by a bountiful treat basket in your room, which is replenished daily so you can tuck in before taking a load off your weary feet in one of the hotel’s three pools. Insider info: Try to nab one of the rooms with a leafy patio and its own plunge pool, and enjoy daily open-air yoga classes. Rooms from £215, slh.com/lindosblu
La Residencia, Mallorca
Capri Palace, Anacapri
What to expect: When it comes to hospitality nobody does it better than the Italians, and Capri Palace is the jewel in the crown. Set in unspoilt countryside, with breathtaking views of the Med, be prepared for some serious indulgence. Have a treatment at the medical spa, Capri Beauty Farm, or explore the island by taking the chairlift to Monte Solaro, the highest point of Capri. If that’s not enough, hire one of two yachts available to guests, and enjoy seeing all the island has to offer by sea. Insider info: Try the 10-course taster menu from the two-Michelin starred L’Olivio, where you’ll also find a water sommelier to guide you through your non-alcoholic options. Rooms from £309, mrandmrssmith.com
What to expect: Set in the historic village of Deia, sheltered by green mountains on the north west of the island, this is a boutique hotel like no other. It’s surrounded by lush olive and citrus groves, so has plenty of shady spots to escape the heat. For a Mallorcan feast with a view, the hotel will pack you up a picnic on one of the resident donkeys, who will amble up to the resort’s ancient terraces. Insider info: Enjoy a complimentary boat ride along the rugged coastline, take a wander through the sculpture garden, or kick back in the spa. The Babymoon Spa Day Ritual may be the best three-and-a-half hours of your life… Rooms from £500, belmond.com
SHOPPING
HOLIDAY HEROES
A good trip starts with a well-stocked suitcase, so be sure to pack these essentials
Bric’s four-wheel suitcase £515, selfridges.com
At The Beach: First Words by Katja Spitzer £5.99, flyingeyebooks.com
Rash top £16, mamasandpapas.com
Travel Cot Light £214.99, babybjorn.co.uk
Bikini bottoms £22, molo.com
Mustela Sun Lotion SPF50+ £17.50, sanareva.co.uk
Beach Lulu printed beach towel £55, amara.com
Canvas wash bag £25, sunuva.com
Swim shorts £36, lacoquetakids.com
JetKids BedBox suitcase and in-flight bed £117.99, kidstravel2.com
Cotton sun hat £40, caramel-shop.co.uk
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Organic cotton and bamboo scarf £75, marloelondon.com
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TRUSTEDBABYSI TTERS I N LONDON Hawkesdown House School
For boys aged 3 to 8 years
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Greycoat Lumleys Maternity Nurses Our Maternity Nurses gently help Mum recover and calmly dispense their knowledge and experience, giving parents the confidence to relax and really enjoy those extraordinary first weeks.
Our Maternity Nurses are: • Highly experienced with excellent references • Love what they do and are extremely knowledgeable and reassuring • Able to look after Mum and baby and help set first time Mums on the right track • Able to establish routines, such as sleeping and feeding • Able to take the pressure off Mum, so she can enjoy her first precious weeks with new baby • Often willing help look after older children • Often multiple specialists
Call Kaisha Hastu to discuss your requirements on 0207 2339950 or email kaisha@greycoatlumleys.co.uk
www.greycoatlumleys.co.uk 142 | JUL/AUG17 | babylondon.co.uk
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education
PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP
Researching schools
EDUCATION
NEWS
EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM
BEST OF BOTH
An English-Chinese dual language prep school is set to open its nursery and reception class in September. The school will take children aged three to 13, immersing them in both cultures for a truly unique education. Based on the corner of Kensington High Street and Warwick Road, the school also features a large sports hall and rooftop terrace playground. kensingtonwade.com If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector. The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.
ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700. The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.
There’s lots of fun and silliness packed into this rhythmic read-aloud book
PLUG IN AND PLAY Incorporate learning into your toddler’s playtime with Muro. The wooden board, designed to be secured onto a wall, can be personalised with a number of toys to aid development, from xylophones to counting frames. Since launching on crowdfunding site Kickstarter, its target has been reached, and you can order yours for delivery in October. From £129 mymuro.com
IN FINE FORM Circle, Triangle, Elephant! A Book of Shapes & Surprises by husband and wife duo Kenji Oikawa and Mayuko Takeuchi offers a new approach to learning about shapes. Beginning with familiar forms, the bright visuals are interrupted with unexpected but recognisable silhouettes. £7.95, Phaidon
EALING IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE LONDON BOROUGH WHEN IT COMES TO CHILDCARE, AND WITH AN HOURLY RATE OF £10.84 ON AVERAGE, IS 50% HIGHER THAN THE REST OF THE COUNTRY. THE RESEARCH WAS CONDUCTED BY ONLINE LOCAL NETWORKING PLATFORM CHILDCARE.CO.UK
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 143
EDUCATION
MEET THE HEAD How long have you been at St Catherine’s School? I joined St Catherine’s in 2009 as the deputy head and later became head of the prep school in January 2012. What do you see as the school’s main strengths? We take enormous pride in providing an environment for the girls that is both nurturing and challenging in equal measure. We have hugely talented and committed staff, and the relationships between the staff, parents and girls are outstanding. How do you ensure every girl achieves her full potential? We recognise that the partnership between home and school is the key to a successful education. Hence, we adopt an open-door policy for parents, who we hope feel warmly welcome at all times. We ensure that the girls are taken outside of their comfort zone and provided with activities that challenge them. Specialist teachers in PE, ICT and Music enhance the work of the form tutors, and the girls are taught
144 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
NAOMI BARTHOLOMEW St Catherine’s, Bramley
We catch up with the head of the preparatory girls’ school based in Bramley, Surrey in superb surroundings. We also make time to pause during a busy week. Assemblies, form times and tutor group activities provide this chance to reflect. Weekly chapel services also play a key role in the girls’ education here. What kind of feedback have you received from parents? One of the comments that particularly stuck with me from
a previous parents’ evening was, “There is pure joy in the school.” I agree with her wholeheartedly! Can you tell us a bit about St Catherine’s history? Having opened to 11 boarders and just six day students back in September 1885, St Catherine’s soon grew in popularity. By 1890, the buildings were extended and in 1894, the chapel was completed and dedicated by the Archbishop of Canterbury. By 1945, there were 97 boarders and 155 day girls, and in 1949, the governors purchased Church House which forms the focal part of the prep school. Decades of expansion and the school’s centenary celebrations followed. The Anniversary Halls, which house a large gymnasium and sports hall, along with an
auditorium, were opened to mark 125 years. Last year, HRH Duchess of Cornwall agreed to be our patron, as the great-great granddaughter of Lord Ashcombe, one of the school’s founders. What plans are coming up? The school’s vision for the next decade is an ambitious one. Immediate plans are for the refurbishment of our science laboratory. Work is underway to provide a modern space for girls to experiment with innovative technology. Science is a real strength here and hence we feel strongly that the very best facilities be provided for this part of the girls’ education. We have also recently launched our Baby Cats Creatives series and are welcoming two to four year olds for music, storytime, creative arts and physical activities. These have proven to be popular already and our young visitors, along with the parents, grandparents and nannies, have thoroughly enjoyed the sessions. stcatherines.info, @stcatsbramley
St Catherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Prep, Bramley GSA Day & Boarding School since 1885 | 4 - 18 years | Guildford GU5 0DF | www.stcatherines.info babylondon01 May 2017.indd 1
25/05/2017 12:39:50
Claremont Fan Court School An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years
Pre-Preparatory and Nursery School Children join the Pre-Nursery class in the term they turn three. Please come and visit us. To arrange an appointment telephone 01372 463695 or email preprepschool@claremont.surrey.sch.uk
Claremont Fan Court School Claremont Drive Esher Surrey KT10 9LY
www.claremont-school.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG17 | 145
TECHNOLOGY
Is your baby
plugged in?
WE’R E USED TO SEEING H E ADLIN E S R EMIN DING US H OW MUCH SCR EEN TIM E (IF ANY) OU R CHILDR EN SHOU LD HAVE. BUT HOW DAMAGING IS IT R E ALLY, ASKS Georgina Blaskey
A
long with whether ‘breast is best’, how much fruit and veg we should feed our children and the right age to start toilet training, screen time is up there as another issue to make parents feel like they’re failing. Look around an aeroplane full of holidaymakers and most children will be plugged in to a device, usually swiping an app with all sorts of rewards toting up. Each reward they accrue is another dopamine hit that tells them, ‘yes you’re doing it right, you can move up a level; look, you’re doing so well, let’s play some more!’ What this ultimately means is the game is never over, so turning off the device usually involves a battle so fierce, you wish you’d never let them have it in the first place. Very young children do not have the self control to know when enough is enough; it’s up to us to teach them, and this means moderating our own behaviour when it comes to tech. If you’re in the playground having a quick scroll through Instagram while they whoosh down a slide, what’s to say they shouldn’t just sit on a swing and watch In The Night Garden? If you’re checking an email while they eat their lunch, why shouldn’t they play Toca Boo in between mouthfuls? It’s all the same to a toddler. New York University professor Adam Alter, in his book, Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us
Hooked, describes how Steve Jobs didn’t allow his kids to have an iPad. “In 2010, Jobs described it as a wonderful device that brought you educational tools. It allowed you to surf the web, to watch videos, to interact with other people. And he basically said it’s the best way to do all those things. Two years later when Jobs was asked, ‘Your kids must love the iPad?’ He said, ‘Actually we don’t allow the iPad in the home. We think it’s too dangerous for them in effect.’ Evan Williams, a founder of Blogger, Twitter and Medium, bought hundreds of books for his young sons, but refused to give them an iPad.
This response to stimulation continues to develop throughout the crucial first year of brain development, so it is vital that babies are not overstimulated. Even babies can be overstimulated by screens and miss the sleep they need to grow,” she explains. Sometimes we see a baby try to swipe a photo and think it’s endearing. Actually it’s because he believes that anything he touches creates an immediate response; after all, do it on a screen and it does. He’s used to the dopamine hit of creating a reaction through simply touching, which releases a feeling of pleasure. If a baby gets used to that feeling, he will always prefer to interact with a touchscreen over the real world, which requires more patience. But once a child is over the age of two, screen time can help develop coordination, quick reactions, and improve language skills. And research also shows that it can encourage light exercise (think Wii tennis or Just Dance). With so many factors to consider, ask yourself this: does my toddler have a balanced diet? Does my toddler get enough sleep? Does my toddler interact well with people? Do we spend time outside? Then restricted time on screens is probably not going to do any lasting damage. The TV has always been a parent’s free babysitter, and who wants to hear a toddler crying on a flight? There are times when common sense is allowed to prevail.
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Chris Anderson, the former editor of WIRED, enforced strict time limits on every device in his home, ‘because we have seen the dangers of technology firsthand.’” If the dons of Silicon Valley understand the addictive nature, but don’t filter it down, we don’t stand a chance! Angela Spencer, author of Babyopathy, points out the difference between stimulating a baby and overstimulation. “Although a baby’s nervous system is one of the first things to develop after conception, it is one of the last to reach complete maturity. A newborn baby therefore reacts quickly to sensory stimulation and can easily become overstimulated.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK,
BABIES CAN BE OVERSTIMULATED BY SCREENS AND MISS THE SLEEP THEY NEED TO GROW
DEVELOPMENT
SET YOUR LIMITS Even from very young, it’s important your toddler knows their limits with screen time, here’s how… Set clear boundaries and stick to them. When your child sits down to use a screen, make sure they know at the start how long they can play for. Consider using a ‘third party’ to indicate the end of the screen time such as an alarm clock, cooker buzzer or even an egg timer. Set a clear next activity. Think of something for them to do after they finish. Ideally something that involves some one-to-one time with you or something active to balance out the solo, inactive screen time. Set a penalty if they do not stop willingly or a reward if they do. There may be some tantrums at the start but children quickly fall in line when they know you aren’t going to change your mind.
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The Baby Cot Shop is a luxury baby & children’s furniture boutique based on The King's Road in Chelsea, London. We take pride in producing the world’s most beautiful furniture, bed linens & accessories. Our interior design service brings our clients’ ideas of a magical space to life. Visit us at 408 Kings Road in Chelsea. www.thebabycotshop.com
148 | JUL/AUG17 | babylondon.co.uk
OUT AND ABOUT
mini
AGENDA
Lianne Kolirin ROU N DS U P TH E CAPITAL’S BE ST EVENTS The Gruffalo
The Gruffalo
PHOTOGRAPHY: J.DONALDSON & A.SCHEFFLER
RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1Q J 0844 871 7651 atgtickets.com Enjoy songs, laughs and scary fun in this much-loved show that’s toured the UK and the world. Join Mouse and friends on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Admission: From £15.15 each. Friday 18 to Sunday 20 August, performance times vary.
Baby Loves Disco Mini Roadshow
Discovery Days
SHOREDITCH TOWN HALL 380 Old Street, London EC1V 9LT 020 7739 6176 babylovesdisco.co.uk
THE ROYAL PARKS EDUCATION CENTRE Hyde Park, London W2 2UH 020 7036 8040 supporttheroyalparks.org
Baby Loves Disco’s resident club DJs mix chart floorfillers with nostalgic pop classics for parents and young children to enjoy together. There are play tents and inflatables, balloons, bubbles, arts and crafts, healthy snacks and dancefloor fun with games and giveaways. Admission: £4 each; nonwalking babies go free. Saturday 1 July, 10am to 12pm.
The Royal Parks Foundation offers nature-inspired activities for all the family, including themed trails, arts and crafts, pond-dipping and bug-hunting. There’s even a carpeted corner for babies, complete with soft animal toys and puppets. Admission: £3 each. Wednesday 2, 9, 16 and 23 August; Thursday 10 and 24 August, 11am to 3pm.
Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 0844 545 8252 underbellyfestival.com As part of the Southbank’s Underbelly Festival, this dance party is created and hosted by Australian DJ, producer and mum of two, Monski Mouse, who spins an eclectic selection of retro hits and funky nursery rhymes for tots under five. Admission: £8.50 each. Sunday 2 and 16 July, and Sunday 6, 13 and 27 August, 3pm.
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East London Waterways Festival Nursery Rhyme Time: Upcycle It!
Southbank Centre Beach
East London Waterways Festival CARPENTERS ROAD LOCK Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 2ST queenelizabeth olympicpark.co.uk The newly completed lock site will form the centrepiece of the festival, which will include a boat flotilla, dragon boat racing, canoeing taster sessions, free boat trips and pedalos. There will also be live music, family activities and food stalls. Admission: Free. Monday 28 August.
Family Saturdays SKIP GARDEN Tapper Walk, King’s Cross, London N1C 4AQ globalgeneration.org.uk Global Generation invites families to enjoy gardening, cooking, homemade cake and crafts in the quirky surroundings of the Skip Garden – a moveable, edible garden in the centre of the King’s Cross development site. Admission: Free. Every Saturday from Saturday 23 July to Saturday 1 October, 2pm to 4pm.
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Super Saturday of Sport
Sensacional
Ugly Bug Safari
Super Saturday of Sport
UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com
ELTHAM PALACE & GARDENS Court Yard, Eltham, London SE9 5QE 020 8294 2548 english-heritage.org.uk
CHRIST CHURCH TURNHAM GREEN Town Hall Avenue, Chiswick, London W4 5DT supersaturdayofsport.co.uk
This sensory show for toddlers has stunning visuals and an enchanting soundtrack. Dressed in white, little ones are enticed by alluring images projected on the white floor, and the games they inspire. Aimed at children aged 18 months to three years. Admission: £10 per child and two accompanying adults. Thursday 29 June to Monday 17 July, performance times vary.
Grab a magnifying glass and join the big hunt for some mini beasts. Discover the secret life of our creepy friends and create your own to take home. Admission: Adults, £14.40; children, £8.60; under-fives go free. Monday 14 to Thursday 17 August, 11am to 5pm.
Chiswick’s incredibly successful Super Saturday of Sport is back. Children as young as two are invited to come along to this wonderful free event to have a go at more than 40 different activities. Expect everything from football and cricket to skateboarding and dance. Admission: Free. Saturday 8 July, 11am to 4pm.
Southbank Centre Beach
Nursery Rhyme Time: Upcycle It!
Octonauts to your Stations!
SOUTHBANK CENTRE Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX southbankcentre.co.uk
THE GEFFRYE MUSEUM 136 Kingsland Road, London E2 8EA geffrye-museum.org.uk
LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey EN9 2EF 01992 892781 visitleevalley.org.uk
Can’t make it to the seaside this summer? Pop down to the Southbank Centre and you’ll hardly notice the difference! Bring your own bucket and spade and enjoy the golden play sand – and hopefully some sunshine to go with it. Admission: Free. Until Monday 28 August, 10am to 10pm.
As part of its packed summer programme, The Geffrye is running these special hour-long sessions for toddlers, with stories, songs and crafts. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission: Free. Tuesday 25 and Friday 28 July; Tuesday 1 and Friday 4 August, 10.30am and 12pm.
Join the adventurous Octonauts, as they lead new recruits in becoming fullyfledged Octonaut Cadets. Get ready to sing all your favourite Octonaut songs! Admission: £9 each; under-twos go free. Saturday 1 July, 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm.
OUT AND ABOUT
First Steps
Zoorassic Park
Summer Festival
Notting Hill Carnival
Notting Hill Carnival
Zoorassic Park
Giffords Circus
First Steps
NOTTING HILL London W10 and W11 thelondonnottinghill carnival.com
ZSL LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo
THE PLACE 17 Duke’s Road, London WC1H 9PY 020 7121 1100 theplace.org.uk
Notting Hill Carnival is the largest street festival in Europe. Sunday is traditionally family day, where you and your little one can enjoy decorative floats, masquerades, steel bands and plenty of music and Caribbean food to sample along the way. Admission: Free. Sunday 27 and Monday 28 August. Sunday is children’s day and Monday is adults’ day. From 9am.
Take a trip back in time to meet the zoo’s newest residents in its Zoorassic Park experience. Come face to face with life-size, moving dinosaurs – from the immense but gentle Brachiosaurus to the formidable Tyrannosaurus Rex! Admission: Adults, from £24.30; children, from £18; under-threes go free. Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September.
CHISWICK HOUSE & GARDENS Great West Road, Chiswick, London W4 2QN 0845 459 7469 giffordscircus.com
Greenwich + Docklands International Festival
Hatch
PHOTOGRAPHY: HAYLEY MADDEN, VICTOR FRANKOWSKI
VENUES ACROSS LONDON 020 8305 1818 festival.org With plenty of attractions for families with little ones, GDIF 2017 brings together night-time spectaculars, with street theatre, art installations and dance, to showcase Royal Greenwich and East London at its most creative. Admission: Free. Friday 23 June to Saturday 8 July, event times vary.
POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com Hatch follows the extraordinary journey of an egg through different sensory worlds in this introduction to music and theatre for babies, from flowing water and whistling winds, to the beautiful call of birds. Admission: £12.50 each. Friday 7 July to Sunday 27 August, times vary.
This vintage circus has a 17th century Spanish theme. Expect thrilling, candle-lit gymnastics shows, with dancing horses and a live band. The traditional circus experience can even be enjoyed alongside a meal in Giffords’ travelling restaurant. Admission: From £14 each. Thursday 29 June to Monday 10 July, performance times vary.
Summer Festival V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA 020 8983 5200 museumofchildhood.org.uk Join an afternoon of live music, dance, walkabout acts, food, designer stalls, henna, facepainting, games and lots of crafts at this unmissable event. Admission: Free. Sunday 23 July, 11.30am to 4.30pm.
These creative dance workshops provide you with an opportunity to bond with your toddler. Explore shape, space and rhythm with live music, colourful sari fabrics and plenty of imagination and giggles. Admission: £7 per session, or £12 for two sessions. Monday 24 and Tuesday 25 July, 9.45am to 10.45am.
Walthamstow Garden Party LLOYD PARK Forest Road, Walthamstow, London E17 5JW walthamstowgarden party.com This festival is back for a fourth year, featuring a Mini Garden Party for babies and young children. There are feeding and changing facilities available, as well as a soft-play area and lots of family-friendly activities. Admission: Free. Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 July, from 12pm.
babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 151
OUT AND ABOUT
BrickLive
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BRICKLIVE EXCEL LONDON 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London E16 1XL bricklive.co.uk This is the definitive event for Lego lovers young and old. Expect brick pits, incredible models and lots of fun. Attractions for toddlers include a dance zone, a Duplo play area and pits of large bricks designed especially for curious children. Admission: From £21.75 each; under-threes go free. Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 July, 10.30am to 6pm.
Lambeth Country Show
Henley Festival Family Sunday HENLEY ON THAMES Oxon RG9 2LY henley-festival.co.uk From learning ballet to playing the African drums, there’s fun for all at Henley Festival’s Family Sunday. World-class performers, kids’ entertainers, musicians, comedians and storytellers will give little ones the time of their lives. Admission: Adults, from £10; children, from £5; under-threes go free. Sunday 9 July, 11.30am to 3pm.
Read! Make! Play!
BROCKWELL PARK Brixton, London SE24 9BJ 020 7926 7085 lambethcountryshow.co.uk
THE BRIGHT EMPORIUM 103-105 St John’s Hill, London SW11 1SY 020 7326 9140 thebrightemporium.com
Now in its 43rd year, this show has all the attractions of a traditional country fair. Expect plenty of music, as well as horticultural shows, sheep dog and owl displays, home-grown vegetables, numerous craft and food stalls, and an on-site farm. Admission: Free. Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 July, 12pm to 8pm.
Join artist Kim Hillyard on selected Sunday mornings for drama, storytelling and crafts. Each workshop begins with a new tale, brought to life through costumes and play. Little ones can then get busy with collage and colouring. Admission: £10 per child. Sunday 9 and Sunday 23 July, 11.30am to 12.30pm.
152 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
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A SELEC TION OF
LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E
Groups & Classes
ACTIVITIES
154 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
TAILORED PILATES CLASSES
FOR LITTLE LEARNERS
Classes across London As the first private clinic in London to run Pilates classes back in the ’80s, and with over 230 classes a week, Six Physio has the capital covered. The machine- and mat-based Pilates classes offer a session which is tailored to you, not the person next to you. With only three people per class, the qualified physios can encourage you to work harder, knowing the exercises are safe and effective for your body. The tailored nature of these classes means they are suitable for both antenatal and postnatal, so be sure to give Six Physio a call and book an initial assessment to get your programme started. 020 7036 0286 sixphysio.com
Workshops across London Check out the Little Discovery classes for ages six months to 24 months old. These allow babies to explore their senses with music, colours and shapes. Little Maths Rhythm & Shapes and Little Science are two after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps into the world of numbers and science that much easier. The Little Maths workshops, for two to four year olds, builds their confidence with numbers. While the Little Science workshop, for ages three to 11 years, introduces new scientific concepts through discussions and experiments. Visit the website for a timetable of workshops throughout the summer months. 0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com
AS SOON AS YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN PLAY FOOTBALL
FUN FRENCH LESSONS FOR CHILDREN
Classes across London Offering the very best football coaching for children aged 18 months to 10 years, Kiddikicks involves the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Join up and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks football classes. There are also sporty birthday parties with a variety of themes for children aged three and up, private and holiday classes, and nursery and after-school sessions. Sign up to receive your mini player’s free kit (registration fees apply). Plus, quote ‘Baby London’ when you sign up to receive an extra 5% off! 020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk
Chelsea, Putney, Notting Hill and St John’s Wood/Maida Vale Club Petit Pierrot, London’s premier French club since 1993, offers innovative, stimulating immersion programmes for children from eight months old. Led by a team of passionate and qualified native teachers, children will flourish and learn French effortlessly while having fun with a wide range of activities, including contemporary music from the company’s educational CD. Language experts agree that learning a second language early in life enhances overall cognitive skills and improves brain development. 020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk clubpetitpierrot.co.uk
ACTIVITIES
EXPERT-LED POSTNATAL COURSES FOR PARENTS
COULD YOU HELP A CHOKING CHILD?
AWARD-WINNING AND INTERACTIVE CLASSES
Weekend courses in London Expecting your first baby? Going through a difficult period with your toddler? The Parenting Chapter provides a programme of expert-led, Londonbased postnatal courses aimed at expectant and new parents, and parents with toddlers. The programme is split into four chapters: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 7-12 months and 12+ months. Using a combination of traditional and modern techniques, each chapter covers all the potential hurdles that parents may encounter with their first and subsequent children at each age and stage, empowering them with practical and impartial advice and solutions. lauren@theparentingchapter.com theparentingchapter.com
Classes across London Every year, thousands of parents choose First Aid for Life to empower them with the skills to help their child in an emergency. Join a course in the company’s training room, or book a bespoke course at a time and place to suit you. The medical professionals run informative, reassuring, handson training. Learn CPR, how to help if your baby chokes and first aid for common injuries. Everyone receives comprehensive first aid manuals, CPR flow charts and certificates, and the paedriatic courses fulfil Ofsted requirements for child carers. Quote ‘Baby London’ to receive a free preschool first aid kit with your booking. 020 8675 4036 firstaidforlife.org.uk
LIVE JAZZ GIGS FOR BABIES
ANTENATAL AND POSTNATAL TWINS CLASSES
Classes across London Gymboree Play & Music’s commitment to quality is unsurpassed, and every day thousands of parents and carers across the UK choose its classes because they want the best for their little ones. The team has a simple goal: to provide the best Play & Learn, Art and Music classes for newborns to five year olds in the world! With more than 40 years of experience behind the brand, the classes and activities are based on a blend of early childhood development theories and years of hands-on experience. Gymboree Play & Music’s triedand-tested formula of physical, social, sensory and imaginary elements make for 45 minutes of fun. Enjoy challenging and age-appropriate activities which will help your little one through the crucial early stages. Themes, props and set-ups change frequently. Members also get exclusive access to Open Gym free-play sessions on site. Little ones can bring an adult along with them to play in a clean, colourful and safe environment with purpose-built equipment. Art classes are for children from 18 months and allow them to demonstrate their artistic flair. Selfexpression and creativity are inspired by painting, drawing, printing and more. Music classes run for ages six months plus, using a global mix of language and genres. Sensory Baby Play classes are for newborns onwards, and feature physical stimulation from a varied mix of props. Little ones become attentive and interested through songs, tactile play and physical games. Free trial classes are available at Bromley, Chiswick, Docklands, Ealing, East Dulwich, Hampstead, Harrow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Putney, Wandsworth and Wimbledon. gymboreeclasses.co.uk
Across South West London As cool as a baby group can be, Jazzabyebabies offers music you and your baby will love. The Jazzabyebabies musicians come from top London music colleges and play a range of traditional jazz with a cheeky injection of original Jazzabyebabies songs that you and your baby can sing along to. With amazing musicians, baby percussion instruments, play parachutes and bubbles, Jazzabyebabies is like a mini jazz café, brimming with friendliness where your baby can play and you can get comfy on beanbags. There’s even free homemade cake! Online tickets are just £5, and private birthday parties can be booked over the phone. 020 8788 7014 jazzabybabies.com
Classes across London As the UK’s only specialised service for new and expectant parents of twins, triplets and multiples, Twin Love Concierge is certified by the International Maternity & Parenting Institute™, and most importantly, is run by mothers of twins. Whether you’re expecting twins or are in your first year of parenthood, there is a group or class for you. Twin Love Concierge also offers maternity concierge including nursery design, baby planning, registry creation and more. Join a local class to meet other parents, or get in touch for your complimentary pre-consultation. 07460 712 580 info@twinloveconcierge.com twinloveconcierge.com
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COMPETITIONS
CHANCE TO WIN
Exclusive competitions and offers for Baby London readers ONE OF THREE SKINCARE KITS To celebrate the launch of Unity Beauty Essentials – the first luxury beauty brand designed specifically for pregnancy – we have three kits to give away, worth £95 each. They contain the Complete Duo Stretch Mark Cream + Oil, Daily Body Hydrator and Intensive Body Nourisher. Both nurturing and luxurious, the label’s debut range will ensure your pregnancy beauty ritual is a pleasure from start to finish. unitybeautyessentials.com
ONE OF FIVE MELOBABY CHANGING WALLETS WITH METANIUM The nappy rash experts at Metanium are giving away five Melobaby All-In-One Nappy Wallet & Change Mats (RRP £38), plus a sample of Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion with each one. The Melobaby wallet holds everything you need for a quick nappy change on the go, as well as doubling up as a handy changing mat. Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash, and is ideal to keep in your bag. The spray format is easy to use – two spritzes should be enough to form a thin protective layer, simply pat the area to maximise coverage. metanium.co.uk
A WOODLAND FRIENDS GIFT SET
ONE OF THREE FAMILY ZOO PASSES
Introducing Little Aurelia from Aurelia Probiotic Skincare; a range of luxury, bio-organic skincare designed to nurture your child’s wellbeing and help them sleep soundly. Designed exclusively for babies and young children, Little Aurelia blends gentle yet effective botanical ingredients with soothing essential oils to calm and settle at bath time and before bed. One lucky winner will receive the Woodland Friends Gift Set, worth £200, featuring the full range of skincare from Little Aurelia, including top-to-toe wash, massage oil, rescue cream and pillow mist, plus a limited-edition Sleep Time Tales book. The set comes in an enchanting suitcase, adorned with delightful illustrations of Little Aurelia’s Woodland Friends – perfect for keeping your little one’s keepsakes and treasures in. aureliaskincare.com/littleaurelia
This summer, visit Marwell Zoo near Winchester and spend time with their playful primates at ‘Lemur Loop’, a new immersive walkthrough exhibit. Plus, from 1 August to 1 October, enjoy The Great Brick Safari: An Interactive Experience with Lego that is exclusive to Marwell Zoo. Along the trail will be a 1.5 tonne elephant and even a life-size Bengal tiger, and we have three family passes, worth £63 each, to give away! marwell.org.uk
ENTER ONLINE AT BABYLONDON.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS 156 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babylondon.co.uk
Celebrating 25 years
Wet
play?
throughout 2016-17
No With 3 sports
Bright children, exceptional opportunities: visitors to Newton
problem. indoor halls to add to our 70m x 40m huge all-weather pitch
Prep in the last year have included the Dalai
Lama, Rowan Williams, Michael Gove MP, Shami Chakrabarti, Johnny Ball. World Cup Rugby player Josh Lewsey and film director Alan Parker.
we have more sports facilities than most secondary-level London schools.
During 2016-17, we celebrate
Newton@25,
marking the first 25 years since its 1991 foundation. So far we have raised £25k, giving 25% each to our four chosen charities—and we stage an event on the 25th of each termtime month. Thinking big: with
“Newton combines knowledge of families with great space and facilities in which children are encouraged to be themselves. All the teachers understand my children, the management is open to fresh ideas and the school is big enough to accommodate variety.”
650+ pupils, aged between 313, Newton is London’s biggest stand-alone prep school.
Current parent Several 100% Bursaries are
If music be the food of love, we are eating well
available from Year 3 upwards for sparky children who
at Newton: over
300 children learn a musical instrument
or take singing lessons
might not otherwise be able to afford a fee-paying school. Bright children Exceptional opportunities
A co-ed London prep school for children aged 3-13 020 7720 4091 www.newtonprepschool.co.uk
Large selection of Maternity and Nursing tops, dresses, jeans, occasion dresses, gym wear and much more. Fast delivery and free returns.
www.yummymummymaternity.co.uk
Horkesley Joinery Ltd Bespoke Wooden • Stair Gates • Fire Guards • Stair Refurbs
Artistic. Relaxed. Timeless. www.samantha-black.com samantha@samantha-black.com 07958 213 958
01206 271 509 info@horkesleyjoinery.co.uk www.horkesleyjoinery.co.uk
Fun French Lessons
Innovative immersion programme Highly recommended by BBC, Daily Telegraph, Daily Express and Time Out
richmond practice .
The family doctor. Venues across London
Est. 1993
020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk
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GP · Paediatrician · Gynaecologist
020 8940 5009
Clinical excellence hassle-free
SHOPPING
London
Boutiques
FOR TH E FIN E ST SELEC TION OF HAN D -PICKED LON DON BOUTIQU E S, H ER Eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OU R SH OPPING GUIDE
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BONPOINT
Bonpoint has to be the haute couture of children’s fashion, with in-house design studios and stores all over the globe. Under the artistic direction of Christine Innamorato, each piece from the Parisian boutique is meticulously hand-crafted to exacting standards. Its clothing features signature detailing and unrivalled quality fabrics, catering for stylish boys and girls ranging in age, from newborn to young teenagers. STORES ACROSS LONDON bonpoint.com
LUNA & CURIOUS
Luna & Curious, the trendy boutique based in East London, is a treasure trove of goodies, with pieces for baby, mum and the home. Established in 2006, the three founders have a passion for high-quality, traditional craftsmanship, constantly sourcing new talent from near and far. The store even stocks some Baby London favourites, including Piu Pia, Amy & Ivor and What Mother Made. 24-26 CALVERT AVENUE, LONDON E2 7JP lunaandcurious.com
MAMAS & PAPAS
From cots to clothing, pushchairs to playtime accessories, Mamas & Papas is your go-to store for picking up everything you need for baby. Founded in 1981, the business was born out of a desire to better meet the needs of new parents, debuting with a range of coloured prams. Now, 35 years on, and with branches and stockists across the world, we challenge you to leave its boutiques empty handed. Be sure to check out its most recent launch, the Ocarro pram. STORES ACROSS LONDON mamasandpapas.com
LA COQUETA
Inspired by the childhood of founder and mother of five, Celia Muñoz, La Coqueta’s collection channels the sweeter, more old-fashioned look of the Spanish aesthetic faultlessly. Timeless smock designs, ruffled collars, vintage-style frocks and delicate pointelle knits are given a contemporary twist with fresh cuts, rich colours and modern prints. Shop here for bright and breezy summer styling. 5 HEATH STREET, LONDON NW3 6TP lacoquetakids.com
WILD & GORGEOUS
Now designing for both girls and boys from newborn to 15 years old, Wild & Gorgeous has proven a hit with families worldwide. Luckily for London parents, the brand’s flagship store is in the heart of bustling Notting Hill, where you can browse the beautiful clothes and accessories to your heart’s content, with a second boutique in Primrose Hill. 52 LEDBURY ROAD, LONDON W11 2AJ 73 REGENT’S PARK ROAD, LONDON NW1 8UY ilovegorgeous.co.uk
MARIE-CHANTAL
Founded by HRH Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, this beautiful childrenswear collection is made from the most luxurious fabrics, including pure cotton and cashmere. In the boutiques you’ll find traditional-meets-contemporary pieces for babies, girls and boys from newborn up to 12 years old. The clothing exudes modern elegance, and the comprehensive collection of baby essentials includes cosy sleep suits, cotton rompers and bib sets. STORES AND CONCESSIONS ACROSS LONDON mariechantal.co.uk
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SHOPPING
RACHEL RILEY
ON LIN E
The royals can’t get enough of Rachel Riley’s traditionally-inspired pieces for infants, girls, boys and mamas, which are beautifully crafted and feature hand-embroidery and vintage prints. And we’re spoilt in London, with two charming boutiques to choose from. These authentic stores are the perfect place to head if you’re looking for something that little bit special. 82 MARYLEBONE HIGH STREET, LONDON W1U 4QW 14 PONT STREET, LONDON SW1X 9EN rachelriley.co.uk
IZZIWOTNOT
ON LIN E
Welcome home your bundle of joy with a luxury nursery set from Izziwotnot. Timeless and elegant, it is furniture that will grow with your family. As a boutique dedicated to great British design, Izziwotnot’s prestigious Bailey Sleigh cot bed and bestselling wicker Moses baskets are firm favourites amongst London mums. izziwotnot.com
SCARLET RIBBON MERINO
Keep your little one warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and wrap them up in nature’s best. Scarlet Ribbon Merino makes knitted daywear for babies aged up to 18 months from the finest merino wool. Combining quality with everyday practicality, Scarlet Ribbon’s knitwear is versatile and long-lasting; something to treasure and pass down to younger siblings. scarletribbonmerino.com
ON LIN E
BRELOKQ
STOCKISTS
PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY
Brelokq creates luxury shoes and accessories for little ones, with each piece designed in Montreal and made in Italy. The stand-out creations put baby’s feet centre-stage; boots, sandals, loafers and ballet pumps are fashioned from the softest leather, featuring lace details and even exotic skins. And not forgetting mothers, its signature ‘Keylina’ changing bag has plenty of compartments to make sure you stay organised. brelokq.com
Tristan wears cotton shirt and shorts set, £69, Rachel Riley.
STOCKIST INFORMATION Annaliv Bonpoint Caramel Crafts 4 Kids Elfie London Freya Lillie Harrods Liberty Marks & Spencer Next Olivier Baby & Kids Pepa & Co Petit Bateau Selfridges Smallable The Little White Company Wild & Gorgeous Zara ZooBug
annaliv.co.uk bonpoint.com caramel-shop.co.uk crafts4kids.co.uk elfielondon.com freya-lillie.com harrods.com libertylondon.com marksandspencer.com next.co.uk olivierbaby.com pepaandcompany.com petit-bateau.co.uk selfridges.com en.smallable.com thewhitecompany.com wildandgorgeous.co.uk zara.com zoobug.com
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BUSINESS
Alice says Amy & Ivor is very much a family run business, and incorporates their ethical values
INSPIRE What inspired you to set up your label, Amy & Ivor? The business really started by accident. I was looking for some traditional moccasins for my two baby daughters. After failing to find anything that was suitable, I decided to have a go at making a pair from some red leather I had in my studio. Those little shoes turned out nicely, and every time the girls wore them we would get compliments about them. Encouraged by a friend, I started a Facebook page. The response was incredible and the rest is history, as they say! Where did the name come from? It’s named after my grandparents. At the time I set up Amy & Ivor, I was starting to get itchy feet creatively and was considering starting a blog to show all the crafts I was doing with my girls. When the business was born the name went to that instead. I love that it isn’t too definitive in any one direction. What did you do before you set up the business? My professional background is as a creative textile developer.
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ALICE HEDLEY The founder of children’s footwear brand Amy & Ivor talks business, family and flexible working I have always worked in fashion. I worked as part of the design team at Burberry and then on the designer ranges at Puma, and as a consultant for smaller luxury brands. I feel lucky to have worked in teams with some of the best creative professionals on the planet. Are your children an inspiration for the brand? I started Amy & Ivor when my daughters, Edith and Clementine, were babies. At the time, all the soft shoes you could buy for babies were covered in motifs and I was looking for something more stylish. The girls are now six and four – I’ve made
them footwear throughout their childhoods and they still wear them as their ‘comfy shoes’ now. They have grown up around the business and are always involved in whatever is going on. The brand is an extension of our lifestyle. As a family we are very ethically minded, so it makes sense that in the business we work by those rules, too. Describe a typical day for you. My youngest daughter started
Designs are made from soft, chrome-free leather
school last September. After four years of having one or both girls by my side each day, this is a huge change of routine. So now, for the first time, my day is split into work time and ‘mum time’. I get up with the kids and get them to school and then start work right after the school run. I catch up with the Amy & Ivor team and then we get to work. Right now we’re a team of like-minded mums working flexibly. The mornings are busier – answering everyone’s queries – then in the afternoon I tend to get time to get my teeth into the next project. I pick up the kids at 3pm, then work again in the evening once the girls are in bed. What is your advice for anyone wanting to start a business? I’m proud to have managed to be a mother and run a business. So in light of this, I think my advice would be to follow your passion. Always make decisions you are 100% happy with – don’t ever compromise your integrity – and, of course, be prepared to work very hard! amyandivor.com
OPEN DAY DAY 2017 2017 OPEN Saturday 77 October October 9.30am 9.30am Saturday
PLEASE CONTACT US TO BOOK A PLACE PLEASE CONTACT US TO BOOK A PLACE
AN INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS 4 – 11 YEARS AN INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS 4 – 11 YEARS
Parsons Green Prep, 1 Fulham Park Road, London SW6 4LJ Parsons Green Prep, 1 Fulham Park Road, London SW6 4LJ
T: 020 7610 8085 E: admissions@parsonsgreenprep.co.uk www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk T: 020 7610 8085 E: admissions@parsonsgreenprep.co.uk www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk
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