Baby London July/August 2016

baby london JULY/AUGUST 2016

BABYLONDON.CO.UK

How to…

CHOOSE THE RIGHT BUGGY FOR YOU

Marissa Hermer WELCOMES BABY SADIE TO HER FAMILY

PLAN THE BEST BABY SHOWER with Carole Middleton

Behind the scenes

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SUMMER • COPING WITH THE HEAT • TRAVEL TIPS • NEW SEASON FASHION • DELICIOUS RECIPES

S TA RT

WAL KING Made with super soft and super flexible materials

startriteshoes.com Share your #SpecialMoments

HELLO. WHICH ONE ARE ?

YOU? Available online or in store:

A carrier?

B slinger ?

C wrapper?

IT TAKES ALL SORTS!

Lapsi are fast becoming known for bringing award winning unique and innovative baby products from Europe into the UK – Micuna, Babyhome, Memola and Noordi are the new and exciting brands that are being launched in 2016!

www.lapsi.co.uk

CONTENTS JU L /AUG 2016

Oscar wears cotton-blend bodysuit, £21, Mini Rodini. Jeans, model’s own.

44

26

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOM LEIGHTON

FEATURES

58 MARISSA’S LITTLE LADY Ladies of London star Marissa Hermer talks to Kate Freud about welcoming her third child 60 BABY SHOWERS Celebrate your anticipated arrival in style with Carole Middleton’s top tips 63 THE TALE OF BEATRIX POTTER Danielle Wilkins explores the work of the iconic author on her 150th anniversary 66 IT’S IN THE BAG, BABY! Regain your pre-baby sense of style with Kate Finney’s pick of the coolest changing bag brands 78 WHAT TO PUSH A comprehensive guide to buying a buggy 81 TOT GEAR We test out the Silver Cross Zest, plus the best summer strollers and car seats

63

87 THE DAD DIARY Dad of four girls Simon Hooper shares the good and the bad of fatherhood 91 A MODEL TRAINER Jenni Baden Howard talks pre- and postnatal fitness with Pilates expert Hollie Grant 94 HOME COMFORTS The tried-and-tested at-home services for busy families 102 FEELING HOT, HOT, HOT Louisa van den Bergh dispenses her tips on keeping cool during pregnancy 110 A PINCH OF STARDUST One mother shares the story of her son, who suffered a stroke at birth 119 NURSERY FENG SHUI Create a harmonious environment for your baby with Louise Pyne 142 CURTAIN CALL Theatrical classes for babies and toddlers

Let Jemima Puddle-Duck waddle into your home

STYLE

44 BLOCK PARTY Embrace bright colour and quirky prints this season 56 SHOP THE SHOOT Get the look with our edit of high street favourites 73 CELEBRITY MATERNITY STYLE Get an A-list pregnancy look for yourself, whatever the occasion

SHOPPING

23 BABY LONDON LOVES Parents will shine bright with this metallic rucksack 25 SHOP SUMMER Celebrate the sun with these irresistible pieces, from dreamy ice cream shades to bright, tropical treats 116 LITTLE DREAMERS The most gorgeous Moses baskets for every nursery

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 7

78 Editor-in-Chief Kate Finney Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Features Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton Publisher Chatty Dobson Finance Director Vicki Gavin Marketing Manager Will Delmont Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Ginny Maclean, Catrina Linz Sales Manager Amy Thacker Sales Executives Harriet Cottrell, Helena Murphy

FOOD

123 FOOD NEWS Table talk for baby and you 124 TASTE OF SUMMER Annabel Karmel cooks up sensational summertime dishes for little diners 128 FACING FOOD Facial expressions can say it all during the weaning process, according to Organix

Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross

Simon Hooper’s fat herhood truths (p.

87

41 42

TRAVEL

131 TRAVEL NEWS Prepare to pack your bags 132 BORN TO BE WILD Emma Jordan takes toddler Charlotte on her first safari

REGULARS

89 98

101

15

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know 33 MY ESSENTIALS We chat with presenter Isabel Webster 36 CRAZY FOR COLOUR Bold and beautiful books 38 MEET THE AUTHOR Book illustrator and fairtrade advocate Chris Haughton talks new projects

Perfect nursery pieces for your little lamb

119

104 109

112

115 139 140 145 152 162

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Goings-on in the capital FOCUS ON: NOTTING HILL The best spots to eat, shop, learn and play HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS What’s new in the world of wellbeing DIARY OF A MUM Martha Alexander pretty much has her birth plan all sussed out…

THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÈ How to find a latching technique that works for you MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals TIME TO TALK… Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt of The Bump Class discuss late scans THE REVIEW Laura Mason guides us through the best baby sleeping aids INTERIOR NEWS Stylish updates and inspiring finds EDUCATION NEWS The latest from classrooms and beyond MEET THE HEAD We get the lowdown on St. Catherine’s MINI AGENDA What’s on in London this summer CHANCE TO WIN Exclusive competitions INSPIRE Talking business with Tobias & The Bear co-founder Ruth Cozens

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: editorial@littlemedia.co.uk

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 2016 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 £14.99.

PLUS we’ll send you a £20 JoJo Maman Bébé gift voucher absolutely FREE! Simply visit:

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PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: CASSIUS Cassius wears jersey cotton T-shirt, £26, Gray Label.

Linen shorts with braces, £46, Nanos at Childrensalon.

dove grey

A SnuzPod " to match your style

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Bringing you closer

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Find your SnüzPod colour match at snuz.co.uk

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ENJOY 15% OFF WHEN YOU ENTER THE CODE BL15 ONLINE* London Stores: 45 Marylebone High Street, W1 I 179 Kensington High Street, W8 I 102 Northcote Road, SW11 Leeds Store: Victoria Quarter, LS1

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Excludes sale items, baby wear and the bump kit.

Anything to ensure a good night’s sleep! Check out our favourite moses baskets on p.116.

Classic Moses basket £75, thewhitecompany.com

Pineapple-print rash vest £20, molo.com

EDITORʼS

LETTER

Sunday Riley Good Genes moisturising treatment £85, cultbeauty.co.uk

KATE FINNEY, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Join me online…

Babylondonmagazine

@Baby_London

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L

Egg by Susan Lazar cotton romper £34, bluealmonds.co.uk

P-TO-DAT

• B A BY

We’d love to hear what you think about our latest issue

PU

ISIT • E, V

KEE

Pineapple-print jumpsuit £10, next.co.uk

of changing bags (p.66). With new brands springing up all the time, set up by mothers full of innovative ideas, there’s never been a better time to be in the market for a new bag.

In fact, changing a nappy has never been so stylish, even for the dads out there!

Talking of dads, we’re excited to be kicking off our new series on fatherhood – The Dad Diary – with Simon Hooper, aka the hugely popular Insta-dad, @father_of_daughters, in this issue (p.87). With newborn twin daughters as well as two older girls, he is seriously outnumbered, and shares all his advice for coping with extreme fatherhood!

For any mothers out there – or dads for that matter – in need of some pampering but unable to visit a salon, we’ve pulled together our favourite at-home beaury services (p.94).

It’s a tough life trying out beauty treatments, but someone’s got to do it, right?! A little bit of luxury in your very own home – you just need to convince your baby to take a nap and you’re in for a treat!

ND

UK

Beautiful changing bags from Baby Beau

It’s amazing how it can creep up on you... one minute you’re wondering how on earth you’ll ever leave the house again and struggling to juggle a tiny baby with all the usual life admin, and the next you’re multi-tasking like a pro, anticipating your baby’s needs and adapting to new phases with a can-do attitude. It seems to go hand-in-hand with the concept of developing a ‘mother’s instinct’ – that feeling of just knowing your baby inside out. I don’t know about you, but with both my babies this feeling has taken me by surprise, along with the major sense of achievement that accompanies the smallest victory, like leaving the house with both of them! Whatever stage you’re at – whether you’re busy preparing for a new arrival or if you’ve already met your little one, we have an exciting issue packed with helpful health advice, colourful fashion ideas and all the latest baby-related news.

Now that summer is finally upon us, we have some brilliant tips for coping with the heat in pregnancy from the wonderful Louisa van den Bergh (p.102) and a round-up of our favourite maternity fashion for every occassion (p.73).

We’ve also taken a closer look at the world

O N .C O

.

@babylondonmagazine

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 11

Where were you born?

Johannesburg, South Africa.

What’s the best thing about being a mum?

Watching my baby grow into her own person, and the pride she takes in accomplishment.

What’s your number-one tip for travelling with a little one?

Surrender. Let go of any expectations and serve yourself a hefty dollop of patience.

Emma takes her daughter on her very first safari on p.132

LOU ISE

J E MM A

CLA I

Where were you born?

In Gloucester. I’m one of six children.

How many babies have you delivered?

As I haven’t delivered a baby since 1983, I can’t really remember! Probably a few hundred.

What led you to focus on breastfeeding?

The realisation that it isn’t as easy as everyone makes out. Once I became known as a hands-on problem-solver, my career as an expert soon launched.

For Clare’s breastfeeding advice, see p.101

, JOURN AL DAN R IS O

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-COOK, BRE AM AS Y B

ING EXPER EED T TF

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CONTRIBUTORS NE , Y P

JOURNALI ST

Where were you born?

Northwick Park Hospital, London.

What was your favourite thing about decorating a nursery?

Adding the finishing touches – a pretty mobile, pastel-coloured cushions and soft lighting.

What’s your favourite thing to do in the capital on a summer’s day?

Head for a long family walk in the park, followed by a lovely picnic in the sunshine.

Louise gives her nursery advice on p.119

-TO-DATE, UP

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UK

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

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There are great competitions and giveaways to be found ‒ it could be your lucky day!

From choosing a nanny to weaning, we’ve got expert advice on all areas of parenting covered

Join in Stay updated with the latest news and talking points

We want to see your pics of you and your little ones enjoying Baby London

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12 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

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For the greatest gift in life

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the new NUK Genius Soother Inspired by nature, perfected with dental health experts, the new NUK Genius soothes your baby in a way that is both natural and kind to teeth.

Available in either Silicone or Latex, the award winning NUK Genius is accredited by the Oral Health Foundation for promoting healthy oral development.

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Lala + Zizo is the new name to know when it comes to childrenswear. The enchanting collection of pieces is inspired by founder Vickie El Rayyes’ far-flung travels, namely to the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur. With a strong sense of bohemia running through the collection, think exotic printed shirts and embroidered sundresses. Available for little ones from six months to three years. Prices from £20. lalaandzizo.com

NDON

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babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 15

NEWS

AN ARTY PAIRING

Petit Bateau has collaborated with American graffiti artist Keith Haring to create a capsule collection for all ages. The French brand has adorned its jersey essentials with Haring’s bright artwork and iconic characters.

There are pieces for babies, children and adults, from babygrows to T-shirts, so everyone can join in on the fun. Shop online or in store. petit-bateau.co.uk

GET YOUR TEETH INTO IT

WILD ONES

Teething toys don’t come much cooler than those from British newcomer Squidge & Pip. Founded by mum-of-two Mary Lord, the medical-grade silicone shapes are easily attached to pushchairs and come in two gender-neutral colours. We love! £20, squidgeandpip.com

Vild House of Little, the luxury Scandinavian-inpired childrenswear label, has released a limited edition collection just in time for summer.

Two babygrow styles and a blanket feature the iconic jungle print, and are made with super-soft thermoregulating bamboo yarn. Each item sold will see the brand donate 20% to charity. Babywear that not only looks good but does good, too.

From £32, vildhouseoflittle.com

OF SOUND MIND Connect with your unborn baby through the power of music with BellyBuds by WavHello; the functional speaker system that allows you to play sounds directly to the womb. Babies develop hearing at around 20 weeks, with memories forming 10 weeks later. This allows you to record messages and create playlists to share with your child. £49.99, wavhello.co.uk

16 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

A ST Y L I S H WO R L D FO R LIT T LE O NE S , DE S IG NE D AND MADE IN B RITAIN S H O P O N LINE AT TO B IASANDT H E B E AR.CO M

GOING FOR GOLD

MOTHER MEETINGS Described as Tinder-meets-NCT, Mush is the revolutionary new app for mums looking to meet other mothers in the local area. The clever algorithm matches users with mutual interests and children of similar ages. Free to download, available on Apple and Android.

The latest limited edition to be wheeled out of iCandy HQ is something quite magical. Brimming with rose-gold accents, the Peach Designer Collection ‘Midnight’ pushchair has an integrated pocket with rose-gold zip, and plush magnetic buttons on the footmuff. Available to pre-order now. From £1,050, icandyworld.com

You’ll feel totally glam wheeling around the new ‘Midnight’ pushchair ‒ evening wear optional

CURATED COOL New fashion site Little Giant is home to a carefully curated collection of kids’ pieces from a variety of independent designers.

With clothing for boys and girls from newbon to 10 years, there’s something for every sense of style. littlegiantedit.com

SLEEP LIKE A BABY

FRESH THREADS

Three Bears Threads brings together the best play apparel for little ones. Featuring cool North American labels such as This Kid Clothing Co and HI Future, expect plenty of cheeky slogans. threebearsthreads.com

Getting our children to sleep well is the top concern amongst parents, according to a survey

by BookTrust. Its new campaign, Bath Book Bed, fronted by parenting guru Jo Frost, aims to make bedtime reading an integral part of a child’s routine. Sign up to receive exclusive content with daily tips to help keep those little ones firmly in the land of nod. booktrust.org.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 19

NEWS

NEW HEIGHTS BabyBjörn is encouraging us to get outside this summer with its new carrier, One Outdoors.

Perfect for hiking and long walks, it’s been created with the help of active parents. The ergonomic carrier has four-way front and back carrying, and the material is both water- and dirtresistant, so you can enjoy your time outdoors without a care for the weather. Suitable from newborn to three years. £169.99, babybjorn.co.uk

A HAPPY HOMEBIRTH

Veteran midwife Annie Francis has released her first book – a reassuring guide for women who are considering a homebirth. The Homebirth Handbook guides you through the entire process; including first-hand experiences, a list of the things you’ll need, and your pain relief choices. £10.99, Trade Paperback

BEST OF THE BLOGS

Discover recipes, read expert advice and more with the Pocket Nannies

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

POCKET NANNIES

Pocket Nannies is run by three working nannies – Sophie, Sarah and Siobhan – who met while training at the world-famous Norland College in Bath. Their blog, with posts written by an array of nannies, parents and childcare professionals, is an online space for discovering imaginative craft activities, recipes for the whole family, and expert views on current childcare topics. pocketnannies.co.uk

20 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

LIFESTYLE WITH SOFIA

Sofia and her young daughter Suri are the power couple behind Lifestyle With Sofia.

Their blog is treasure chest of fashion, lifestyle, travel and interior design, with appearances from Sofia’s architect husband.

Sofia has an eye for all things beautiful, and even offers a personal shopping service for mothers and their kids.

You’ll just love following their adventures across the capital. lifestylewithsofia.com

WE MADE THIS HOME

Laura is the wife, mother, homemaker and designer behind lifestyle journal We Made This Home. It documents the adventure of making a house a family home, with posts on everything from styling a small kitchen to building a children’s den. Alongside the DIY and home renovations, there’s snippets of motherhood and everyday life, all with a dose of creativity. Watch as Laura’s home grows and changes with her family – you’re sure to feel inspired. wemadethishome.com

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More milk for your baby, more time for both of you.

The innovative double pump technology in the Medela Swing Maxi helps you pump more energy packed milk, in less time.

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BABY STYLE

LOVES

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Shine bright Ah, the rucksack: the 90s favourite that allows busy parents to roam hands-free. And now, Tiba + Marl has released its classic ‘Elwood’ backpack in a modern metallic hue for a touch of urban cool. With a luxury changing mat, bottle holder, removable clutch and plenty of space for baby’s essentials inside, this hero piece is both functional and flashy. We’re sold.

‘Elwood’ faux leather backpack, £120, tibaandmarl.com

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 23

SHARE YOUR ADVENTURES WITH THE ONES YOU LOVE NEW! Baby Carrier One Outdoors www.babybjorn.com

The Parallel Line Design is a sign of a genuine BABYBJÖRN product.

Wool and cotton hanging mobile £36.04, needleandidesign.com

Rylee & Cru cotton bodysuit £37, cissywears.com

Woven cotton bodysuit £20, rockinbaby.com

High chair £189.99, babybjorn.co.uk

These adorable little high-tops will brighten baby’s outfit in an instant High-top trainers £42.50, geox.com

Wall clock £4, tigerstores.co.uk

Printed swimsuit £29, rachelriley.co.uk

Summer

SUNDAES

Tomy Foam Cone Factory bath toy £19.99, argos.co.uk

These dreamy ice cream-inspired accessories are just too sweet to resist

Annabel Karmel by NUK ice lolly moulds (set of four) £5.99, nuk.co.uk

Catimini dress £51, melijoe.com Wooden ice cream parlour toy £18, gltc.co.uk

Mimi Lou knitted cushion £29, eenymeenykids.co.uk

Knitted rattle £6, pebblechild.com babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 25

SHOPPING

Pom-pom garland £14, talkingtables.co.uk

Embroidered cotton sleepsuit £16, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Cotton bodysuit £20, polarnopyret.co.uk

Miniyou booties £38, ruedespetits.co.uk

Zip-up cotton hooded top £30, welovefrugi.com

Giraffe toy £10, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Rainbow

WAVES

Let your little ray of sunshine show their stripes in this season’s technicolour pieces

These stimulating beads will provide baby with hours of enjoyment Baby beads £12, shop.royalacademy.org.uk

Liberty print cotton bib £12, cocoandwolf.com

Stroller summer kit (pushchair sold separately) £119, stokke.com

Jean Bourget printed T-shirt £16, melijoe.com

Rainbow Friends touch-and-feel book £7.99, waterstones.com

26 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

There is only one Original KonfidenceÂŽ BuoyancyJacket

Four

but now you can have it in

great new designs, including beach-chic themed nautical stripes inspired by our Cornish heritage

Safety. Style. Fun. Head to the beach this summer with the essential holiday accessory for kids.

See them online now at konfidence.co.uk Telephone 01566 777 887

I

email sales@konfidence.com

Europe’s leading designer of premium protective swimwear for babies, infants and children.

is here to help!

We all know how unpredictable babies can be!

Even if you follow a regular routine, no two days are the same, and there are certain trigger times1 when your baby may be more prone to nappy rash 1.Morris H, The bottom line on nappy rash, British Journal of Midwifery, September 2012, Vol 20, No 9, pages 540-543

1

wea ning

Treatment

for Nappy Rash

For occasions when it does strike, Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment can be used to treat nappy rash, relieving the irritation and redness.

Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine. Always read the label.

www.metanium.co.uk 8236 Baby London

2

common cold

3 teething

4

antibiotic s

5

first sle ep

throug h the nig ht

6

change in diet

7

dia rr hoea

Protection

from Nappy Rash For daily protection, use Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment or Easy Spray Barrier Lotion at every nappy change to help protect against the irritants that can cause nappy rash.

we

babies’ bums

SHOPPING The ‘Hug’ transforms from baby car seat to child’s booster seat, lasting up to 10 years ‘Hug Tropico’ car seat £210, cosatto.com

Hitch-Hiker cotton shirt £50, childrensalon.com

LOW RES

Cactus night light £75, mollyandthewolf.com

Leather moccasins £38, amyandivor.com

Stella McCartney cotton bodysuit £36, alexandalexa.com

Tropical

BREEZE Give baby’s style an island twist with palm prints and vibrant colours

UV-protection parasol £34.95, bugaboo.com Bamboo bodysuit £32, vildhouseoflittle.com

Plush ‘Jamila’ snake £169, steiff.com

Flamingo light £35, talkingtables.co.uk

Cotton dress £34.50, howtokissafrog.com

Little Man Happy tank top £26, busyandtheboy.com Knitted rattle £6, pebblechild.com

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 29

SHOPPING

Baseball cap £19.99, littlehotdogwatson.com

Noodoll large plush toy £30, lullabuy.co.uk

‘Apple 2 Pear’ pushchair £595, icandyworld.com

Fruity

Pineapple night light £69.95, mollyandthewolf.com

I Like Fruit touch-and-feel book £6.99, waterstones.com

PUNCH

Bobo Choses plate £15, caramel-shop.co.uk

LOW RES

Get into summer’s juiciest trend with fresh and fun finds that look good enough to eat

Apple core eraser £2, tigerstores.co.uk Sunuva swimsuit £42, bluealmonds.co.uk

Molo dress £48, melijoe.com

IDo Baby T-shirt £19, childrensalon.com

30 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

This cotton-yarn fruit is ideal for newborn sensory discovery Crochet banana toy £12.99, alegriach.com

Easy Peasy leather moccasins £22, alexandalexa.com

The perfect Baby Gift Box for every Occasion

New Born Gift Boxes NUU ADDITION has put together a varied selection of items either for a baby boy or baby girl, from 0-3 months. A Gift Box assembled to assist in the new transition and to make life a little easier.

We understand that having a baby brings so much pleasure and happiness yet it can also be quite stressful in the initial preparation, which is why we have selected an assortment of gift packages, inclusive range of bodysuits, towels and nappies.

NUU ADDITION is set apart because we supply all the necessities for a new born, everything available at one place full of baby clothing and baby products adored by Parents or Guardians.

Gift Boxes for a Mother or Father, family member or best friend, present for a work colleague, baby shower, for a young Mum, whatever the reason or occassion we have a box for you.

We take special pride in our work and services in order to meet our clienteles needs and preferences.

We ensure that every recipient is completely happy when they have received our gift box.

For more information or to place your order visit our website:

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WW W. N I N E I N TH E M I RRO R. CO M 3 .1 P HILLIP LI M • AL E XAN D E R WAN G • M ARN I • PRAB AL GU RU N G • VAL E N TI N O • AND MA NY MOR E

INTERVIEW

Ice lollies were one of Isabel’s biggest pregnancy cravings

The new mum admits she is looking forward to going back to work at some point

MY ESSENTIALS ISABEL WEBSTER

How are you finding life as a new mother to baby William?

He is the apple of my eye! It feels such a privilege to witness the dawning of this little man’s life. I’m amazed every day by the way he’s changing, growing and learning. The love I have for him just grows and grows more than I could ever have imagined.

How was pregnancy for you?

My pregnancy was filled with such anticipation and excitement that I’ll always look back fondly on that time in my life. It’s incredible to see what a woman’s body is capable of. Having said that, I didn’t enjoy being so immobile or having to constantly down Gaviscon!

Did you have any indulgences?

I became obsessed with ice lollies – they helped quench

Oilatum Junior Bath Additive £6.89, boots.com

The presenter and Sky News Sunrise host reveals all about becoming a mother for the first time my insatiable thirst and cool me down, I was always hot! I could also eat a whole packet of cold chicken – a friend once said it was because I was having a boy, but I think my body was just craving protein.

What are your baby essentials now William’s arrived?

William has very sensitive skin and suffers from eczema so we can’t live without his Oilatum products and Aveeno moisturising cream. If I skip day without those, the little guy flares up.

Where do you like to shop for his wardrobe?

I started out

as a big fan of Trotters, where I bought Christmas outfits and formalwear for a friend’s wedding, but now he lives in Baby Boden and anything with a nautical print.

If we were to rummage through your changing bag, what would we find?

All the expected baby-changing essentials, but also a stash of toys, a hat and jumper in case of an unexpected cold turn in the weather, and I’ve recently bought a modesty cover for breastfeeding. Now William is older he’s becoming easily distracted during feeds!

You must be used to early starts after presenting

Sunrise – how have you found adjusting to a different sort of early morning schedule?

I naively thought it would be a doddle after working night shifts and early mornings, but I was totally unprepared for the sleep deprivation that comes with a newborn. Those first few months of William’s life were a total haze – days and nights blurred into one and weeks blended into each other. It was far harder than the labour for me, which in itself was pretty awful!

Holmes ost Eamonn Isabel ’s co-h iam ill W ith w is a natural babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 33

INTERVIEW

The presenter sa ys she looks back on her pregnancy days with fondness

Isabel with baby William

Has your co-host Eamonn Holmes and the rest of the Sunrise team met little William?

Yes! You could tell Eamonn and our sports presenter, Jacquie Beltrao, are both parents – they knew exactly what to do. Naz Ghaffar, our weather presenter, was a little more timid with him but has been so sweet and spoilt William with lots of presents.

you my own name or locate a hair brush until recently! But now William is sleeping through and we have started to wean him, I am getting excited about seeing the old gang and testing my brain in other ways again. I just hope it still works…

How have you been keeping up with current affairs while on maternity leave?

Sky News is always on in our house and everyone teases me because every time a story breaks, the Sky News theme tune belts out from my phone with the

Isabel loves to take walks along the Thames with her baby

What are your favourite things to do in London when you’re out and about with baby?

I love walking along the Thames with William strapped onto me in his BabyBjörn baby carrier. It’s great fun watching all the rowers going up and down the river on a sunny day. We also enjoy walking round Richmond Park – surely London’s greatest park.

Have you attempted a family holiday with William yet?

We took William to Amsterdam at Christmas to introduce him to all our friends who live there (my husband lived there for five years). Unfortunately there was a poo explosion incident on the plane when the seatbelt sign was switched on so we couldnt change him straight away. I had to watch the brown stain spreading up his back and through his clothes – while he was sitting on my lap. He’ll thank me for sharing that when he’s older, I'm sure!

How do you feel about returning to work?

I couldn’t even think about work in the beginning – I’m so grateful to those women who fought for mothers to get good maternity leave rights enshrined in law.

I really don’t know how women used to go back after three months or even sooner – I couldn’t even tell

34 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

details and a link to the Sky News app. I am also a big fan of Twitter, but during maternity leave I’ve become more of a consumer and less of a poster.

William’s wardrobe is filled with Baby Boden Cotton dungarees £24.50, boden.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: PA IMAGES DAVID JENSEN/EMPICS ENTERTAINMENT, ISTOCK

I WAS TOTALLY UNPREPARED FOR THE SLEEP DEPRIVATION THAT COMES WITH A NEWBORN

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36 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

BOOKS

This exciting, definitive lookbook contains more than 40 famous artworks for babies to enjoy

BLUE & OTHER COLOURS WITH HENRI MATISSE Playful text leads you through a beautifully curated collection of art by Henri Matisse. The perfect introduction to fine art for little ones aged one to three years. £6.95, Phaidon

BLOCKS

By Irene Dickson A simple and enchanting story about learning to share, told through the clever use of red and blue geometric building blocks. £9.99, Nosy Crow

ART FOR BABY: COLOUR A set of four sturdy concertina board books themed by colour celebrating well-known

contemporary art from the likes of Damien Hirst and Jeff Koons. £14.99, Big Picture Press

and educational adventure. £9.99, Walker Books

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By Sophy Henn From multicoloured rainbows and bunches of balloons to swathes of coral and bright orange elephants, this technicolor tale about happiness will have little readers beaming with joy. £6.99, Puffin

SHAPES, RESHAPE!

By Silvia Borando

Can you guess which animals the shapes are going to transform into before they reshape? A menagerie of creatures appears before your very eyes in this fun

THE COLOUR MONSTER Your own little monsters will delight in this gentle pop-up book about emotions. Engaging foldout scenes and a wonderfully expressive monster will enthral readers from start to finish. £12.99, Templar

BIG BOOK OF COLOURS An early learning journey through a world of more than 130 colours, this book includes a colour wheel to turn and see-through acetate pages to discover what happens when you mix colours together. £9.99, Usborne

HUGLESS DOUGLAS COLOURS

By David Melling

In board-book format for little paws, our beloved Hugless Douglas brings a whole world of colours to your little ones and, of course, as every good story should, this one ends with a hug. £5.99, Hodder Children’s Books

MY FIRST GRUFFALO: COLOURS

By Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

Part of the Gruffalo baby series, this bold, bright board book features all your little one’s favourite characters from the Deep Dark Wood. £5.99, Macmillan

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 37

INTERVIEW

Chris has offered his designs to social enterprise groups in Nepal, where women create hand-woven raw cotton goods, including hand puppets and stuffed toys

The author and illustrator has lived in London for 12 years

MEET THE AUTHOR CHRIS HAUGHTON

You’re best known for your distinctive children’s picture books. Tell us a bit about your new title, Goodnight Everyone.

I was trying to experiment with scale. It seemed like a nice nonverbal way to communicate with younger children. They are able to understand the concept of turning pages and things getting bigger. I tested the idea on my eight-month-old twin nieces who were too young at the time to grasp my other books. They got this one, though.

You taught English to children in Hong Kong, and recently took part in a project inviting kids to your studio. Do you find working with children inspiring?

I hadn’t a clue about children until I was thrown in the deep end with

38 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

The Irish children’s book illustrator talks new projects, life in London and his passion for fair trade my teaching job. I never had any training, and I just made up the lessons as I went. It was actually quite helpful when I think back – I can tell pretty fast which stories are going to bomb from my time reading to kids in Hong Kong.

Do you also find your work is inspired by your travels?

It helps a lot! Although, I may just be telling myself that because I love travelling. I always have my best ideas on the road, though.

I find just having your routine turned on its head shakes you out of your usual ways of thinking.

If you could settle anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I have chosen to be in London for the last 12 years. I love it. Actually, though, I am looking around for somewhere new, just for a change.

I love San Francisco and would love to give New York a go, too.

What are your favourite places to visit in London?

The Wellcome Collection and British Library have great exhibitions. Plus, the Design Museum and Tate. And nothing beats sitting in the parks with friends and a bottle of wine!

You’re co-founder of Fair Trade initiative Node. Can you tell us a bit more about the project?

I found this amazing business when I was working in Nepal in 2010. It was set up by a family of the lowest caste to train adults in technical skills. One of the things they do is weave rugs, so I helped them by offering some designs.

First it was just my own, then later I roped in other designers and artists. We are selling them online and through the Design Museum.

What’s on your reading list?

I’m reading about computers at the moment. I’m working on something new about the history of IT – it’s taking a while! bl Goodnight Everyone (£12.99, Walker Books) is out 4 August

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1 A NEW TIGER

COMES TO TOWN

In Denmark, Tiger has already caused a mini retail revolution, and it’s now time to conquer Chelsea. From quirky gifts to a tavern of toys, you’ll find an eclectic mix of treats in-store.

234 Kings Road SW3 5UA

9 BREAKFAST BONANZA

Calling all hungry dads! Make your way to St Katharine Docks for the Dads Breakfast Club. dadsbreakfastclub.com

dates for your

15 ARM CANDY

DIARY

Show off your ‘Mama’ status with the brand new clutch bag teaser from the Jem + Bea AW16 range, released today!

20 LITTLE

LUXURIES

Lunchbox, £3, available in most Tiger stores

Chic label Belle Enfant launches its AW16 pieces in Harrods, comprising muted hues and quality fabrics.

Pens at the ready, we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy for the next two months

23 CALLING ALL MINI RAVERS

Baby raves are the place to be right now. Award-winning Big Fish Little Fish is hosting a family festival at Ally Pally for newborn to eight year-olds (plus their parents, too!). bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk

28 BABIES

LOVE BEATRIX

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Baby’s first flight?

Many babies will be off on their first getaway during these months, and parents might naturally feel anxious about flying with a little one. The SkyBaby travel mattress is specially designed for this – a comfy alternative to having your baby sleep on your lap or in an airline bassinet. £29.99, sky-baby.co.uk

‘Olympic Medal’ bib, £12.99, shop.olympic.org

This year we celebrate 150 years since the birth of best-loved children’s author Beatrix Potter. Her wonderful creations have warmed the hearts of adults and children for generations. From limitededition books to toys, crafts and clothes, see page 63 for our favourites from the author and illustrator.

AUGUST

25 BABY’S

5 THE OLYMPICS

Want to spend your weekend listening to music in the sunshine? Well, we can’t promise good weather but the entertainment at Shambala in Northampton is perfect for young families. shambalafestival.org

BEGIN!

As the world goes mad for medals, make sure your little sport looks the part, too.

11 BE A WINNER

It’s your last chance to enter our fantastic competitions!

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15 MESSY

MONDAYS

Drop in to this baby-friendly class at The National Gallery, where each week is focused around a different colour. nationalgallery.org.uk

FIRST FESTIVAL

26 FOODIE FRIDAYS

Every Friday is a food-filled day at St Katharine Docks.

The World Food Market takes place on Marble Quay from 11am to 3pm. With more than 20 food stalls offering a diverse range of delicious dishes, there’ll be something to suit everyone’s tastebuds. skdocks.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 41

RUNNING HEAD

WHERE TO SHOP

With its quaint streets and rustic townhouses, Notting Hill’s unique charm attracts visitors from all over

FOCUS ON

C de C

NOTTING HILL

Add a pinch of Parisian style to your child’s wardrobe and pop into C de C by Cordelia de Castellane for adorable French fashions.

38b Ledbury Road

Discover the best spots to eat, shop, learn and play in this fashionable West London space Daylesford

PORTOBELLO MARKET Seven days a week, visitors and locals alike can lap up stall upon stall of goodies, from the finest antiques to fresh fruit and flowers. portobelloroad.co.uk PLAY & LEARN CLASSES From baby sensory to music, games and storytelling, Gymboree’s play-based classes for infants encourage learning and development. gymboree-uk.com NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL Ever since the first carnival in 1964, this historic event has brought colour and culture to the streets of Notting Hill

ILOVEGORGEOUS

From perfect party dresses to the sweetest knits and accessories, ILG is a treasure trove of stunning pieces for stylish little girls from newborn to 15 years old.

52 Ledbury Road each year for two days. Get involved on Sunday 28 and Monday 29 August.

CLUB PETIT PIERROT Enjoy fun french lessons from as young as a year old at The Crypt, the Greek Cathedral of St Sophia, Moscow Road. clubpetitpierrot.uk.com

GRAB A BITE DAYLESFORD From seasonal vegetables to artisan breads and cheese, Daylesford is a diner’s delight.

Swing by for brunch, lunch or coffee. daylesford.com

GRANGER & CO Set yourself up for the day with one of Bill’s classic breakfasts. Teasmoked salmon, anyone? grangerandco.com

PARENTAL ADVICE BUMPS, BABIES & BEYOND If you’re looking to meet other parents, the NCT-run, Bumps, Babies & Beyond is a free weekly group for anyone who is expecting a baby, or has a little one. Thursdays, 3pm to 5pm, at St Peter’s Church, Kensington Park Road. nct.org.uk

HONEYJAM

Co-owned by designer Jasmine Guinness, this quirky shop is filled with traditional and modern toys alongside cool puzzles, dolls, stationery, fancy dress and more.

2 Blenheim Crescent

NURSERIES: THE ACORN NURSERY SCHOOL, 020 7727 2122; MONKEY PUZZLE, 020 7792 5522, MONKEYPUZZLENOTTINGHILL.CO.UK; BRIGHT HORIZONS LADBROKE GROVE, 020 3780 3016, BRIGHTHORIZONS.CO.UK; ROLFE’S NURSERY SCHOOL, 020 7727 8300, ROLFESNURSERYSCHOOL.CO.UK; LADBROKE SQUARE MONTESSORI SCHOOL, 020 7229 0125, LADBROKESQUARENURSERY.COM 42 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: MAP DATA ©2016 GOOGLE, ISTOCK

OUT AND ABOUT ELECTRIC SCREAM On Monday mornings, take your little one to the Electric Cinema and check out its dedicated screenings for babies under one year. electriccinema.co.uk

SOME FORWARD THINKING ON REARWARD FACING Our DUALFIX, suitable from birth to 18 kg, makes a world of difference for families on the go.

Its 360 degree rotation easily adjusts from rear to forward facing, and it helps parents get their little ones in and out of the car without having to strain their backs.

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DUALFIX

safety

Harlen wears cotton overalls, £54, Stella McCartney Kids.

LED balloons (pack of five), £4.50, Paperchase. Metal chair, £12.50, Maileg at Sisters Guild.

BLOCK PARTY PHOTOGR APHER : TOM LEIGHTON FASHION ST YLIST: Y VADN EY DAVIS PROP ST YLIST: JOAN NA THOR N HILL

LEFT PAGE Leonardo wears cotton-blend dungarees, £59, Rachel Riley.

Cotton T-shirt, £20, Kidscase at The Mini Edit.

Cloud sculpture, £165, Mini Objects Of Desire. Geometric cotton cushion, £20, and throw, £59, both John Lewis.

Toy elephants, £4.95 each, Lapin & Me at Sisters Guild.

THIS PAGE Poppy wears silk dress, £450, Gucci at Harrods. Cotton cardigan, £107, Bonpoint.

Patent leather shoes, £32, Clarks.

Paper pom-poms (pack of three), £6, Paperchase.

Gracie wears cotton-blend bodysuit, £32, Mini Rodini.

Printed ‘Bunny’ booties, £100, Minna Parikka at Harrods.

Lambswool throw, £75, Rigby & Mac. Play balls (pack of 100), £10, Mothercare.

THIS PAGE Harlen wears cotton-blend bodysuit, £29.95, and leggings, £19, both Noé & Zoë at Harrods.

Honeycomb paper ice cream decoration, £16.50, Paperchase.

RIGHT PAGE Oscar wears cotton bodysuit, £23, Mini Rodini. Cotton shorts, £58, Stella McCartney Kids.

Ribbed cotton-blend socks, £12, Raspberry Plum.

Fabric bunting, £10.50, Paperchase.

THIS PAGE Elodie wears cotton dress (with matching bloomers, not seen), £75, Rachel Riley.

Wire stool, £24.95, Rigby & Mac. Toy elephant, £4.95, Lapin & Me at Sisters Guild. Play balls (pack of 100), £10, Mothercare.

RIGHT PAGE Lani wears cotton pinafore dress, £45, I Love Gorgeous. Hairslide set, £12, and metallic sandals, £55, both Rachel Riley.

Paper tassle garland, £14.50, Paperchase. Rubber origami boat, £8, Oli & Carol at Sisters Guild.

Gracie wears cotton playsuit, £47, No Added Sugar.

Textured throw, £45, Habitat.

Toy giraffes, £5.25 each, and toy fawn, £4.95, all Lapin & Me at Sisters Guild. Rubber ducks, from a selection, Tiger. Rubber origami boat, £8, Oli & Carol at Sisters Guild.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: ELODIE, GRACIE, HARLEN, LANI, LEONARDO, OSCAR, POPPY. MODEL AGENCIES: BRUCE & BROWN, GRACE & GALOR, TINY ANGELS, URBAN ANGELS

Cotton dress £19.95, gap.co.uk Cotton check-print shirt £7, mothercare.com

Poppy wears cotton dress and leggings set, £51, Catimini at Alex and Alexa. Patent leather shoes, £32, Clarks

Ruffle dress £19, next.co.uk

SHOP THE SHOOT

Embroidered cotton tassle top £11, johnlewis.com

The high street is bursting with colour-pop pieces for baby. The brighter the better…

Cotton-blend shorts £8.99, zara.com

Be inspired by one of summer’s coolest looks with this tropical rainforest-print tee Polarn O. Pyret cotton T-shirt £12, johnlewis.com

Knitted cotton poncho £12.99, zara.com

Polarn O. Pyret cotton shorts £10, johnlewis.com Cotton vests (pack of two) £6, next.co.uk

WEAR WITH…

Left to right: Cotton denim dress, £16, johnlewis.com. Little Punk cotton hat, £6.99, houseoffraser.co.uk. Cross-strap sandals, £8.95, gap.co.uk.

Denim jeans, £9.99, zara.com. Cotton denim overalls, £19.95, gap.co.uk. Leather trainers, £35, bobux.co.uk. Cotton chambray skirt, £14.95, gap.co.uk.

Marrissa’s

LITTLE LADY AF TER A CHALLENGING PR EGNAN C Y, L ADIE S OF LON DON STAR Marissa Hermer TALKS TO Kate Freud ABOUT WELCOMING BABY SADIE

I

58 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

“I couldn’t stand for more than five minutes and when I would explain to them that the baby has to rest so she can grow bigger, I could feel them becoming resentful. But since Sadie arrived home it has been magical, she gets showered with love and kisses from her brothers and they tell her how much they love her all the time,” she says with a smile.

Despite the difficulty of her pregnancy, another positive thing came out of being housebound. “Because I felt so out of control with the situation, my maternal instincts went into overdrive and I wanted to nurture my family in any way I could”, Marissa explains.

“I would pull up a stool in the kitchen and

and secure, I am very lucky.” The couple met at a dinner party at Café Royal in 2005. Despite being attracted to one another, she admits she was wary because he worked in nightclubs – he owns the Ignite Group, which includes Boujis, Bumpkin and the Eclipse bars – so she headed back to New York to work in PR. They remained in touch when he visited Manhattan, and in the summer of 2009 he convinced her to come to Europe. She never left.

They spend their holidays in Newport, California, where Marissa was raised and her family remain, and their hope is to spend more time there. “When something like this happens, it really makes you reassess what is

WE COULDN’T LET OURSELVES GET EXCITED – WE WERE SO TERRIFIED WE MIGHT LOSE HER cook. I started writing recipes – a mixture of the healthy Californian food I grew up with and Matt’s meat and two veg favourites – and before I knew it, I had a cookbook’s worth. An American Girl in London is due for release in April 2017, and I’m really proud of it.”

She has also started filming the third series of Bravo’s Ladies of London, the reality show that follows some of the capital’s most glamorous residents. It involves three to four days of filming a week, but the cast and crew have become like family to the Hermers, and were a tremendous support to Marissa during her pregnancy. And viewers of the show can see for themselves what a rock-solid marriage she has with Matt.

“He has been the most incredible support the past year,” Marissa says. “He is so strong

important,” Marissa explains. “I love the idea of my kids spending more time on the beach as I did as a child.” Though, of course, they love London, too. Weekends are spent at the Duke of York Square farmer’s market, Battersea Park Zoo, or having dim sum in Bayswater’s Royal China after a run-around in Hyde Park.

So, how does she juggle such a busy working life and three children under five? “Honestly, there’s no magic formula. I wake up and figure out how to get through each day, and whoever needs my attention the most will get it!” she laughs. “A friend once told me to never compare myself to other mothers. I have found what works for me and I feel content as a result.” And sitting here with babe in her arms, Marissa Hermer truly is the picture of contentment.

PHOTOGRAPHY: DAVID VENNI /CHILLI MEDIA

f ever there was a snapshot of maternal bliss, it’s seeing Marissa Hermer cradling her four-week-old daughter Sadie in her arms. Sitting in the kitchen of her Chelsea home, she confides it was a moment she feared would never come.

“Early on I found out I had placenta praevia, but at 18 weeks I was told I had placenta accreta as well, a potentially life-threatening condition where the placenta grows into the lining of the womb,” she explains.

The same day they were also told they were having a girl. Marissa and her husband, entrepreneur Matt Hermer, already have two boys, Max, four, and Jake, two, but she says, “we couldn’t let ourselves get excited because we were so terrified we might lose her.” Marissa was on bed rest for most of her pregnancy, taking progesterone to keep the baby ‘locked in’ and praying for the best. But there were scary moments along the way.

“I found myself back in hospital several times with bleeding, and I really felt as though I could miscarry at any moment.” Thankfully, Sadie was born safe and well at 34 weeks, delivered by caesarean in an operation during which Marissa also had a full hysterectomy because her placenta was so embedded in the womb. They brought Sadie home from hospital after 10 days. “The word ‘blessed’ doesn’t even begin to cover it,” says Marissa.

“Life is non-stop. I’m breastfeeding almost constantly, but I couldn’t be happier.” And alhough she had always hoped to sneak a fourth child past Matt, she knows how lucky she is to have three healthy children.

She is also extremely relieved to be back on her feet. As a working mum, she found being put on bed rest during her pregnancy particularly hard, especially not being able to be there for her sons as much as normal.

INTERVIEW

Marissa admits that although life is non-stop, she couldn’t be happier

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 59

PARTY TIME

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

All that baby talk can cause quite the sugar craving, so don’t forget the cake!

Chocolate mice (pack of six) £1.99, partypieces.co.uk

Paper party treat tubs (pack of eight) £3.29, partypieces.co.uk

TOP TIPS FOR THROWING A BABY SHOWER • If the gender of the new arrival hasn’t been revealed, choosing a neutral theme doesn’t have to mean basic shades. Soft lemon and pale grey look chic together, or go for a combination of pastel blue and pink.

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

Baby arrival chalkboard sign £2.49, partypieces.co.uk

• It’s easy to go overboard with cute gifts for the little one and forget about the mum-to-be!

Lotions and potions as well as relaxing candles will all be very welcome. Or, as a treat, book her into her favourite spa.

Bespoke pram picture cake £60, lolascupcakes.co.uk

• Gift-opening is often seen as the main event, but it’s always nice to add to the occasion with themed games. If time is a struggle, you can buy a huge selection of ready-made baby shower games online, or, if you’re feeling creative it might be nice to organise your own. Why not ask guests to bring their own old baby photos and play the game of guessing who’s who?

Spinner game (pack of six) £3.49, partypieces.co.uk

• Make memories of this special day by setting up a corner of the room as a photo booth complete with baby-themed props. You could use a polaroid camera so guests can take the photos home.

• No party is complete without cake. Go down the cupcake route and complete with themed toppers, or host your own baby ‘bake off’, where guests bring their own homemade treats.

60 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

TOP TIP

If you know whether it’s a boy or girl, adding pink or blue to the cake offers a traditional touch.

Ready-made personalised vanilla cake £19.99, partypieces.co.uk

Truly Scrumptious cake toppers (pack of 24) £5.99, partypieces.co.uk

Cookie cutter £1.49, partypieces.co.uk Photo booth props (pack of 10) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

Paper lanterns (pack of three) from £9.99, partypieces.co.uk

THE GIFT LIST

Paper bunting £9.99, partypieces.co.uk

TOP TIP

Balance your gift list between mum and baby.

If you’re clubbing together, why not present a mini hamper?

Mini baby bottle favours (pack of 24) £1.49, partypieces.co.uk The Whimsical Cake Company filled chocolates £12, notonthehighstreet.com

d ting editor an Our contribu eton dl id M le ro t Ca party specialis

BABY SHOWERS with Carole Middleton

From sweet decorations to gorgeous gift ideas, celebrate your anticipated arrival in style

This survival kit features a trio of aromatherapy oils, perfect for heavy breasts and sore nipples

(From top) Pasito a Pasito changing bag and accessories, £117, lucyandbelle.com. Peter Rabbit My First Little Library, £5.95, johnlewis.com. Lime Basil & Mandarin home candle, £42, jomalone.co.uk. Natural Birthing Company Bosom Buddies breastfeeding kit, £29.99, boots.com. Go Everywhere mat, £65, avery-row.com.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 61

Wallpaper, £48 (per metre), Jane Churchill

The tale of

Beatrix Pot ter pictured with her sheepdog, K ep, at Hill T op Farm

BEATRIX POTTER AS WE CELEBR ATE TH E 150TH AN NIVER SARY OF TH E MUCH-LOVED AUTH OR , Danielle Wilkins E XPLOR E S TH E LIFE AN D WOR KS OF ARTIST AN D STORY TELLER Beatrix Pot ter

or decades, few childhoods have been complete without a treasured copy of The Tale of Peter Rabbit lurking on bookshelves, tucked underneath pillows and hidden inside toy boxes; the story of the mischievous, vegetable-thieving bunny who snuck into Mr McGregor’s garden, experienced some unfortunate events, and was finally put to bed with a spoonful of chamomile tea. Author Beatrix Potter has been delighting generations of children for more than 115 years with her animal tales, which have gone on to be immortalised through a vast range of toys, crafts and clothes.

Potter was born on 28 July 1866 in Kensington, and later studied and worked at Kew Gardens producing botanical drawings.

But she had a lifelong love of the countryside and later retired to Hill Top Farm in Cumbria, a location that would become a feature in many of her tales.

It was her childhood pet rabbits, Benjamin Bouncer and Peter Piper,

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Peter Rabbit soft toy £14.95, peterrabbitstore.co.uk

who inspired her stories. After being rejected by several publishers, Potter decided to produce The Tale of Peter Rabbit herself, printing 250 copies for friends. Its success soon forced Frederick Warne & Co, who had previously turned it down, to reconsider. Upon publication in October 1902, it was a bestseller.

This July, Potter would be celebrating her 150th birthday and, rather unsurprisingly, the world is keen to celebrate with her. There will

British designers to re-release five of Potter’s classics with new high-fashion covers in July.

Last but not least, a previously unseen Potter story featuring an older (and somewhat portlier) Peter Rabbit – The Tale of Kitty-inBoots – is set to be published in September, 100 years after it was written, with illustrations

by Quentin Blake. The tale was left unfinished after “interruptions began”, according to letters from Potter in the V&A archives.

POTTER HAS BEEN DELIGHTING GENERATIONS OF CHILDREN FOR MORE THAN 115 YEARS be showcases of her works, alongside limitededition products and literary events.

For traditional collectors, the Royal Mint has released four colour 50p coins featuring some of the much-loved characters alongside its uncoloured Beatrix Potter coin collection, which is expected to start circulating this summer. For design devotees, Penguin Random House Children has teamed up with five iconic

She never returned to it, and it remained unillustrated apart from one colour sketch of Kitty-in-Boots and a pencil drawing of archvillain Mr Tod, when she died in 1943, aged 77.

Globally, a Beatrix Potter book is sold every 15 seconds – the author is as popular now as she ever was. And, as the new tale reveals, she is still surprising us to this day. Here’s to another 150 years of magical reading.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 63

SPOTLIGHT ON

Paper bunting £5, paperchase.co.uk

Cotton bibs (pack of two) £6, marksandspencer.com

Peter Rabbit wooden skittles £18.99, lucyandbelle.com

Peter Rabbit jack-in-the-box £24.75, bundlesofjoy-shopping.co.uk Cotton bodysuit and knitted dungarees £16, mothercare.com

Three-piece children’s dining set £24.99, johnlewis.com Illustrated by the much-loved Quentin Blake, the new book is available from 1 September The Tale of Kitty-in-Boots by Beatrix Potter £12.99, amazon.co.uk Wall stickers (pack of 27), £14.99, Becky & Lolo

Wedgwood silver-plated baby cup £60, amara.com

Tom Kitten large soft toy £19.95, beatrix-potter-shop.co.uk

Beatrix Potter anniversary limited edition silk scarf £70, shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

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INSpecial-edition THE SPOTLIGHT colour coins, £55 each, The Royal Mint

Wooden pegs (pack of 12) £3.50, paperchase.co.uk

Beatrix Potter biscuits £10.95 each, biscuiteers.com

Personalised hand-painted chair £295, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com

Jemima Puddleduck pull-along toy £7.99, lucyandbelle.com

Toddler backpack £18.99, beckyandlolo.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: © NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES, FREDERICK WARNE & CO

Mounted print £12, shop.vam.ac.uk

21ST CENTURY-STYLE BEATRIX POTTER Peter Rabbit and friends get a streetwise makeover

The Tale of Jemima Puddle Duck, Henry Holland. The Tale of Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, Orla Kiely. The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Cats Brothers.

The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin, Preen. The Tale of Tom Kitten, The Rodnik Band. All priced £6.99, available from 7 July 2016.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 65

STYLE

It’s in the bag, baby!

TR AN SL ATING YOU R PR E-BABY SEN SE OF ST YLE TO MOTH ER H OOD HAS N EVER BEEN E ASIER , SAYS Kate Finney

The KAOS canvas bags can be worn as a backpack, a shoulder bag or draped over the handles of a pushchair

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STYLE

STORKSAK

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Established label Storksak started in 2003, all thanks to a humble school run, when working mothers Melanie Marshall and Suzi Bergman decided to create a range of bags. The brand’s mantra, ‘a place for everything and everything in its place’, doubles as the perfect motto for a well-organised parent! With stylish leather, nylon and canvas options, each bag comes with an insulated bottle holder, padded changing mat and wipe-clean linings, but there are additional extras, too, like the FAB (food and beverage) bag and the mini organiser.

Our favourites: the almond leather ‘Catherine’, the sunset orange ‘Lucinda’, all the colourful tote options and the unisex ‘Ashley’ satchels. storksak.com

KAOS

Sisters-in-law Mette Bordal Hansen and Gineline Kalleberg founded their brand in Norway, after they both became parents and were on the lookout for aesthetic, functional and unisex products. Their canvas bags can be worn as backpacks or shoulder bags, hang neatly across the handlebars of any buggy, and even feature an iPad sleeve. The collection launched in 2015, is made from canvas, leather and copper-plated hardware, and we love that the name was inspired by their everyday lives.

Our favourites: all the colourways of the KAOS ‘Ransel’ rucksack, and the mini version. itskaos.com, available from thetipi.co.uk

BELLAMY

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Crafted from luxury leather with panels of printed leather, the three bags in the Bellamy range are both sleek and sophisticated. Clever side zips allow you to change the size of the bag to suit your needs. “Whether buying a morning coffee, doing buggyfit in the rain, changing a nappy or on a city commute, we wanted to create a bag that makes all mothers look and feel fantastic,” explain founders Jessica Irving and Alex Wolahan-Black.

Our favourites: the limited-edition ‘Gazelle’. bellamybaby.com

1. Navy and orange tote, £70, storksak.com 2. Storksak founders, Melanie Marshall and Suzi Bergman 3. KOAS founders, Mette Bordal Hansen and Gineline Kalleberg 4. ‘Ashley’ satchel in coral, £70, storksak.com 5. ‘Gazelle’, £219, bellamybaby.com

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 67

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68 | JULY/AUGUST 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

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STYLE

JEM + BEA

When one half of the founding duo has designed bags for Mulberry, Burberry and Anya Hindmarch, you can be sure that these covetable changing bags exude quality and style. Mothers Rebecca Da Silva Lima and Dominique Hughes are old school friends who launched their brand in 2015, named after two of their children, Jemima and Beatrice.

“Our ethos is to create incognito baby bags designed with the idea that function and style can, and should, coexist,” says Rebecca.

Signature touches include polished gold-tone hardware, discreet embossed logos, premium leather and the option to personalise.

The best thing is the bags’ versatility, as Dominique explains, “The bags transfer seamlessly to all situations – from baby group to a work meeting, to dinner with friends”.

Our favourites: the grey-white ‘Amber’, the tan ‘Jemima’ and the orange ‘Beatrice’. jemandbea.com

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Supercool London duo Anna McDonald and Lydia Barron set up their business after they had babies and were unable to find contemporary, trend-inspired changing bags. With a background working for Urban Outfitters, Topshop and Kurt Geiger, they designed a range of bags that they’d like to use themselves. “We aim to provide modern mums and dads with cleverly designed, superfunctional changing bags where an edge of cool always comes as standard,” says Anna.

With an East-London vibe, their passion for fashion, as well as family and functionality, is obvious. “Ultimately, this generation of mums doesn’t want to suddenly give up buying the kind of bag that gives you a buzz when you wear it, just because you’ve given birth!” exclaims Lydia. With options to personalise bags with Anya Hindmarch-esque stickers, and a range of current mini-me rucksacks, this label is just as popular with dads.

Our favourites: the quilted ‘Elwood’ backpack, and its mini-me versions, and the floral ‘Etta’ changing clutch. tibaandmarl.com 1. Jem + Bea founders, Dominique Hughes and Rebecca Da Silva Lima 2. ‘Amber’ in grey-white, £230, jemandbea.com 3. ‘Farah’ in black, £115, jemandbea.com 4. ‘Elwood’ backpack, £115, tibaandmarl.com 5. Tiba + Marl founders, Anna McDonald and Lydia Barron

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 69

STYLE

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PINK LINING

From hand-stitching bags in a basement flat in Bayswater, to being stocked internationally in places as far as Australia, Saudi Arabia and South Korea, the Pink Lining journey is an impressive success story. After having her first daughter, founder Charlotte Pearl diversified into changing bags and has never looked back.

Since the original designs, Pink Lining has expanded to offer totes with geometric prints, travel pouches, hospital and weekend bags, plus a huge range of kids’ bags, all of which are tried and tested at her Notting Hill home.

Our favourites: the ‘Notting Hill’ tote in the Busy Bees print and the new ‘Wonder’ bag in True Love. pinklining.com/uk

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KERIKIT

After her twins were born, Keri Jamieson found herself with three children under two, yet still found the energy to set up a business!

After becoming frustrated by the lack of bags that offered what she needed, she set to work on KeriKit, her collection of luxury Italian leather bags named after each of her children.

With a high price point, these bags are an investment piece, and the clever internal, removable organiser guarantees that it will continue life as a regular handbag long after the nappies have disappeared.

Our favourites: the black ponyskin ‘Charlie’ shoulder bag and the burnt orange ‘Jasper’. kerikit.com

BABY BEAU

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In 2010, Rebecca Gono was six months pregnant, browsing for a changing bag when she realised she wanted to create her own range of multifunctional designs. The resulting changing bags aim to meet the demands of your growing baby, evolving to suit the different baby and toddler phases. The leather bags have the “bottomless practicality of the Mary Poppins holdall” and aim to help parents “fuel their inner fashionista without sacrificing their individuality”.

Our favourites: the ‘Grab and Go’ clutch, the classic ‘Ellie’ totes and the ‘Joel’ unisex bags. baby-beau.com

1. ‘Jasper’ in zebra-print, £360, kerikit.com 2. KeriKit founder, Keri Jamieson 3. ‘Henrietta’ tote, £79, pinklining.com/uk 4. Pink Lining founder, Charlotte Pearl 5. ‘Ellie’ in tan, £199, baby-beau.com

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Nursery to playroom, we can help create the perfect space for your little ones Furniture – Monogramming Service – Bedding – Gifts – Fashion Complimentary Interior Design Service Visit us at our store or online 63 Abbeville Road, London, SW11 2AH

www.piccoliandco.com

STYLE

Celebrity MATERNITY STYLE FROM R ED - CAR PE T GL AMOU R TO EFFORTLE SS DAY TIM E EN SEM BLE S, TH E SE A-LISTER S MAKE BUM P DR E SSING LOOK E ASY. H ER E' S OU R GUIDE TO GE T TING TH E LOOK

Kerry Washington

aternity styling can be a challenge.

Particularly when the ‘blooming’ and ‘glowy’ vision you had of yourself pre-bump doesn’t exactly live up to expectation. Do you cover up in breezy boho blouses à la Emily Blunt, or show your bump with pride in a form-fitting dress?

It’s not easy to dress a shape you’ve never experienced before – not to mention one that is changing on a daily basis. The key is to not give up on your personal style. Avoid the temptation to dress completely in black (unless that’s your thing, of course). If you usually wear rainbow hues, don them with pride! And while you might not be able to fit into your trademark skinny jeans, the one thing that can’t be taken from you are your accessories – your favourite necklace, scarf or bag will all help you feel like yourself, not to mention give you another excuse to go shopping. As if we needed one…

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PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES: MPI99/BAUER-GRIFFIN, JOSIAH KAMAU, RB/BAUER-GRIFFIN. PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGES,DOUG PETERS/DOUG PETERS/EMPICS ENTERTAINMENT

Nicky Hilton

Emily Blunt switches up her relaxed daytime look for the glitz and glam of the Met Gala

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 73

STYLE

LOUNGEWEAR

PLAY DATE

Keep it loose and dress for comfort in these key wardrobe staples

A relaxed jumpsuit and trainers will keep you cool while on the go

Top to bottom: Rose gold and leather-strap watch, £75, oliviaburton.com. Knitted mix top, £32, mamalicious.com. Nursing bra, £20.30, mumbabra.com. Maternity jogger trousers, £40, topshop.com. Cashmere bed socks, £35, thewhitecompany.com.

Top to bottom: Stella McCartney sunglasses, £165, harrods.com. Cotton nursing top, £35, seraphine.com. Linen jumpsuit, £135, claryandpeg.co.uk. Lexy Pexy wooden teether necklace, £18, nineinthemirror.com.

Golden Goose Deluxe Brand trainers, £255, net-a-porter.com.

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WORKWEAR

Inject your own style by adding a statement necklace to a simple dress

Top to bottom: Beaded necklace, £105, stelladot.co.uk. Stretch-fit dress, £59, justpolly.co.uk. Faux leather tote bag, £115, justpolly.co.uk. Solidea maternity support tights, £24.50, pebbleuk.com.

STYLE

WEDDING

If you’re going to show your bump, you may as well make it look pretty…

DINNER DATE

For a casual evening, team a printed blouse and loose trousers with heels

EVENING WEAR

Top to bottom: Pillbox fascinator, £120, johnlewis.com. Mary Katrantzou printed silk dress, £1,000, nineinthemirror.com. Vince leather clutch, £285, harrods.com. Patent leather wedges, £175, lkbennett.com.

Top to bottom: Printed silk top, £150, maddersonlondon.com. Sterling silver cuff, £260, dinnyhall.com. Maternity joggers, £28, marksandspencer.com. Lace trim nursing bra, £17, seraphine.com. Lace trim briefs, £7, seraphine.com.

Top to bottom: Gold-plated sapphire earrings, £390, econe.co.uk. Silk dress, £225, seraphine.com. Cord-detail clutch, £110, reiss.com. Carvela sandals, £89, kurtgeiger.com.

Shimmer in simple lines, sparkling accessories and a block heel

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 75

CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER HOSPITAL

The Kensington Wing Private Maternity Unit The birth of a new baby is a very special moment for any family and the Kensington Wing at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital ensures that you will be in the hands of experienced Consultant Obstetricians and Midwives, all dedicated to ensuring you receive the best possible care.

You'll enjoy the privacy and comfort of our private en-suite bedrooms and can be reassured that you are in a dedicated private maternity wing within one of the safest hospitals in the UK.

To find out more about our services, please call us on:

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Having maternity support can have a range of positive effects, not least allowing your family to have a happier and healthier life that involves spending more quality time together.

Hiring help is not without its difficulties, however, and that’s where Your Way Maternity Services comes in. The company’s aim is to take the stress out of choosing a nurse or nanny and provide the bestquality support to parents by educating and empowering them along the way. The company’s nurses and nannies are available to provide hands-on support, while sharing their expert advice in a gentle, non-patronising way.

Whether you require help to get your newborn into a routine, relief from physical tasks to help you recover from a caesarean section or problematic birth, support with postnatal depression, or you quite simply just want someone to help build your confidence in the basics of newborn care, Your Way Maternity understands the importance of finding the right person to suit your needs.

The company offers a bespoke service to ensure it finds the perfect candidate for your requirements, with the option of both live-in and day or night nurses and nannies available.

Once you have found your solution, Your Way Maternity will guide you through the rest of the process. This includes preparing for interviews, finalising bookings and answering any questions you may have along the way.

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Enjoy quality time with your new baby and build your confidence along the way

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If you would like more information on pursuing a career in maternity support, email the team at recruitment@ yourwaymaternity.com babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 77

RUNNING HEAD

WHAT TO PUSH… Laura Slater, FOU N DER OF N U R SERY CON SU LTAN C Y E AT SLEEP LOVE, SHAR E S WHAT TO LOOK FOR WH EN PU RCHASING YOU R STROLLER

uying a pushchair can be an emotional experience – imagining yourself pushing your new baby around can make it exciting, but it can also be daunting. This is a purchase that you are going to use almost every day for the next few years.

Before you start to shop, think about what your requirements are. Ask yourself, do you have space restrictions? Do you want a travel system that you can attach the car seat to?

What is your style preference? What kind of terrain will you be using the pushchair on?

Will it fit in your car, and does it fit into your budget? With so many things to consider, try to pick the two most important elements and prioritise those.

Going into lots of different stores will only confuse you, so visit a store where the staff will demonstrate the pushchairs, showing you how they fold and how to adjust the seat and handle. They should also discuss colour options and lead times with you. Certain colours and styles may be out of stock so don’t leave it too late to make your selection.

To be safe, I recommend choosing a pushchair eight weeks before you need it. As a general rule, start your search after the 20-week mark.

When looking at the cost of a pushchair remember to ask what is included in the price.

There is quite a big difference between brands on what you get, and you may have to buy carrycots, rain covers, bumper bars, car seat adaptors and cup holders separately. Some buggies are sold at a complete price with

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CHECK WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE – SOME ONLY OFFER THE CHASSIS AND SEAT the majority of accessories included, while others only include the chassis and seat, and everything else is an extra.

Ask yourself, where am I going to be using my pushchair the most? Consider the shopping basket size if you are going to be using it for shopping trips and days out. If you know that you are going to be using it for long walks and want something that works well on uneven ground, then look at the wheel size and push it around to see how it feels.

The Mountain Buggy Urban Jungle design is a great sporty looking option, perfect for city or country life and all weather conditions. Or, for a sleeker mixed-terrain option, the iCandy Peach All-Terrain is a joy to move around.

Another thing to consider is what it feels like to push. If the handle doesn’t feel comfortable or it doesn’t extend or retract to an ideal position, then it is not the pushchair for you. I would recommend that if you or your partner are tall then you might not want a carrycot or seat that you have to bend down too far to reach. Check how easily the pushchair goes up and down curbs, and test out how well it tips back so you can lift it up on to a pavement – the handle of the Stokke Xplory extends really well.

Many new parents find themselves tight on storage space or simply require a buggy to make daily travelling easier. If this is you, look for a lightweight pushchair with a small

Look out for matching and personalised accessories for a more bespoke travel system Joolz Geo Duo Tandem, £999, mamasandpapas.com

fold, something you can store out of the way when you are not using it, or that will fit into a small car boot. It is also worth considering a style that allows the seat to recline – if you’re using it all day, your little one will want to nap. The Babyzen Yoyo+ offers a super-small handbag-style fold, a travel system with car seat adaptors and can now be used from birth.

Additionally, the Mountain Buggy Nano can be taken onto an aeroplane, too.

Most of my customers are first-time parents and although their first child has yet to arrive they do sometimes make choices that take into consideration the needs of a growing family. There are some pushchairs that start as a single but have the option to extend to a double, such as the Phil & Teds Double Dot or the soon-to-launch Britax B-Ready. Many of these also make great double pushchairs for twins, much like the Uppababy Vista.

You are going to be using your pushchair a lot so you need to enjoy how it looks – for many parents it is an extension of their own personal style. Many brands offer additional matching accessories, such as foot muffs, blankets and even personalised bumper bars and matching car seats, such as Joolz, which has a great new range of Be Safe car seats.

If this appeals to you, then select a retailer who can add all these items to your order.

There are a fabulous array of colours on offer and some exciting limited edition styles on the market so you and your little one can stand out from the crowd. If you’re seeking something high-fashion, look out for the new Cybex Priam collaboration with designer Jeremy Scott or the ever-popular Bugaboo

By Diesel range.

Buying a pushchair is a big investment so don’t rush into it. Carefully weigh up where you are going to use it, and where and how it will be stored. While I tend to be practically minded, I also love to pick something that I know a baby will be comfortable and cosy in. Buying a pushchair that is well-made and sturdy will naturally give it longevity of use but, most importantly, pick a pushchair that you will feel proud to push.

1. Urban Jungle, £449, from Eat Sleep Love

2. Peach All-Terrain, £640, icandyworld.com

3. Xplory, £849, stokke.com

4. Yoyo+, £339, babyzen.com

5. Nano, £274, mountainbuggy.com

6. Double Dot, £399, philandteds.com

7. B-Ready, £595, britax.co.uk

8. Vista, £699, uppababy.co.uk

9. Cybex Priam X Jeremy Scott, £1,850, harrods.com

10. Bugaboo By Diesel Denim, £1,089, johnlewis.com

eatsleeplove.co.uk

Priya Trio Set Takes you anywhere, anytime.

Everything you need from birth through to toddler stage. +44 (0)1978 664362

www.hauckuk.com

info@hauckuk.com

REVIEWS

TOTGEAR

H E ADING ON H ER FIR ST FAMILY GE TAWAY, Cour tney Robinson TRIE S OUT SILVER CROSS’S L ATE ST ADDITION SILVER CROSS ZEST A vain admission: my first priority when shopping for baby gear has always been to find something stylish and easy to clean, ideally in black. Additionally from a travel pushchair, we wanted something lightweight, robust and easy to steer. Plus, bonus points for a system that could be folded with one hand and foot, and didn’t require a degree or third arm to get it into our car boot.

The versatile model can hold a max weight of 25kg

THE LOWDOWN While perhaps not ideal for ‘off-roading’, the Zest certainly delivers on the easy-to-managewith-one-hand and lightweight requirements, and the style of the buggy is simple and clean.

GOOD LOOKING? We opted for the black design which hides dirt and marks, and looks sleek and stylish. I personally would have preferred black all over (the seat too!) but it wipes clean, is durable and looks smart. The subtle elephant print on the inside hood is cute, too.

COMFORT Our daughter Belle seems pretty comfortable in the Zest – there’s lots of wriggle room, a comfy padded seat and the fabric doesn’t seem to make her too sweaty.

The lie-down position is a definite drawcard for me, Baby Belle sits comfortably in the five-point harness

particularly as Belle is only five months old, she sleeps well in this position. The fivepoint harness is secure and comfortable.

The addition of padded straps by the face would be great for when she’s sleeping, but overall we’re happy that she’s comfortable. A standard winter kit would easily fit the design – great for keeping us moving through seasons.

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVABILITY The stroller is easy to collapse with one hand and foot while holding a baby, which proved supremely helpful in the airport. The carry strap was also a great addition. The multi rotation in the wheels offered a smooth ride and made navigating the airport crowds a breeze.

Though we gave it a go, the Zest is not ideal for dirt or gravel tracks, and like most travel strollers, it isn’t particularly gentle on the cobble-stone roads in European cities, so stick to the paved paths.

I like being able to see her through the mesh in the hood when the sunshade is down fully, though it could also benefit from having a mesh peek-through when the shade is zipped halfway to ensure you can see your passenger is sitting comfortably.

The rain cover also allows her lots of space, which is great, though I wasn’t able to fold the stroller with the rain cover in the basket, you

The smart stroller is great for families on their travels

need to remove it and attach it to the outside of the pram.

What I particularly like about the Zest, as opposed to other lightweights we’ve looked at, is the sturdy frame – it certainly doesn’t feel like it has been thrown about airplane stowage. The basket is a handy size for a travel stroller, and easily accessed when the seat is upright. Plus, it held all we needed for day trips without off-weighting the pram.

THE VERDICT We like the Zest. It’s easy to travel with, which was the primary purpose for us. It’s light yet structurally sound, and Belle sleeps well in it.

Apparently the straps are pretty tasty, too! £130, silvercrossbaby.com

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 81

TOT GEAR

The GB Pockit is the smallestfolding stroller on the market, making it the ideal travel companion

Summer strolling Whether you’re heading on a getaway or exploring your local park, make sure you’ve got the wheels to match

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MACLAREN MARK II The durable Mark II is the lightest pushchair on the market. The handy carry strap makes it a doddle for when little ones want to walk, too. £144, johnlewis.com u it

GB POCKIT Launching in the UK in July, the Pockit offers two options – the everyday fold for setting aside, and the ultra-compact fold for travel. £149.99, gb-online.com

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ICKLE BUBBA AURORA With its swift, one-handed folding action, the cool and compact Aurora stroller is the perfect pushchair for city life. £125, icklebubba.com

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BABYZEN YOYO+ Use from newborn with the ‘0+’ fabric and switch to the ‘6+’ fabric when they’re older. It’s a popular choice, thanks to its super-nifty fold. £339, harrods.com

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OMNIO If your child wants to walk, simply pack up the Omnio and carry it on your back – great for family walks. Available to pre-order from June. £299, born.com

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HAUCK SHOPPER SPORT Sleek and lightweight, the Hauck Shopper Sport ticks all the boxes. The extra-large shopping basket is perfect for storing a picnic. £59.95, preciouslittleone.com

TOT GEAR

GET SEAT-WISE This issue we focus on choosing the right car seat for your newborn, giving you the low-down on group �+

Installation

Car seats can be fixed using a diagonal lap belt or ISOFIX anchor points.

Deactivate any front airbags before fitting a rear-facing car seat in a front seat.

Rearward facing

Government law says you must keep the seat rear facing until your baby is around nine months old, but it’s suggested that staying rearward for longer is the safest way to travel.

Newborn inlay

For optimum comfort, an inlay will ensure your newborn is in the best position. The harness, headrest, handle and recline system can all be adjusted, too.

BRITAX BABY-SAFE PLUS SHR II With 50 years of expertise under its belt, expect advanced safety features and sleek style with Britax’s Baby-Safe Plus. £140, britax.co.uk

BE SAFE IZI GO MODULAR Compatible with most prams, this design from the Scandinavian safety pros ticks all the boxes. £199.95, johnlewis.com

84 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Side impact

One in four car accidents is a side impact collision, so side protection is imperative when buying the right car seat.

JOIE EVERY STAGE This is a car seat that quite literally grows with your child, and can be used from newborn all the way up to 12 years of age. £200, johnlewis.com

MAXI-COSI PEBBLE When teamed with a Maxi-Cosi base unit, this stylish car seat is super easy to clip in and go. £165 (seat sold separately) peppermint.co.uk

NUNA REBL With its handy 360° rotating system, taking your baby in and out of the seat and switching positions is a doddle. £395, mothercare.com

CYBEX ATON Q Easy on the eye and superbly engineered, this travel system ensures the highest level of safety and comfort. £175, mamasandpapas.com

Summer 2016 collection

Ways to keep in touch:

Call us on 0871 423 5656 or visit our website at www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk Visit one of our London stores: Balham, Battersea, Blackheath, Chelsea Green, Chiswick, Crouch End, Dulwich, Muswell Hill, Putney, Stoke Newington, Westbourne Grove, West Hampstead & Wimbledon * Free delivery to UK and Ireland. See website for full details.

BABY TALK

Simon and wife Clemmie with the twins

THE DAD DIARY

Simon Hooper

Your local DIY store: the hideout of choice for fathers

Just a standard evening in the Hooper household

Sunday evening bathtime is a particularly bonding experience

What challenges have the twins thrown your way so far?

I’ve had to become a lot better at multitasking – can you cook dinner while bouncing one baby, feeding another and holding a conversation with an eight-year-old about homework? I certainly didn’t think I could, but look at me now! Another thing I hadn’t considered was how were going to deal with the nights. My wife Clemmie and I currently sleep in separate rooms with a baby each, and compare notes in the morning about who had the worst sleep. Not an ideal situation, but it means we stand a fighting chance of not being too knackered the next day.

“I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT…”

The dad assures us no kids were hurt in the making of this photo

How does it feel having newborns again?

It’s shocking just how much I’d forgotten about what it takes to look after newborns.

I guess that’s a survival technique the brain has built in so we continue to procreate. That said, I’m loving it. And, of course, being numbers three and four, I finally know what I’m doing and don’t get so overwhelmed by it all.

The Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep machine – great for having bottles ready when you need them!

The Insta-dad shares the good, the bad and the oh-so honest about life as a father of four girls

Why did you launch yourself as an Insta-dad?

Women seem to have embraced social media as a kind of support network, while men have quietly got on with things in the background.

I just wanted to show what parenting was like from a male perspective, while providing some guidance along the way. I also wanted to expose ‘real’ family life – there is a lot of sugar coating in Instagram-land and a dose of reality seemed to be missing.

How does it feel to be outnumbered by girls?

I wouldn’t have it any other way. Sure, it’s loud and emotions run high, but I like being the one who finds the balance. People still ask me if we’ll try for a boy – my response is always, “No, I’ve got everything I need.” From my experience, girls seem mentally quicker than boys, so it’s fun trying to keep up.

Tommee Tippee Closer To Nature Perfect Prep bottle machine £69.99, mothercare.com

hters, Anya, Simon with his daug d Delilah an e tili Ot e, Marni

The downside is that girls, if they want to be, can be incredibly mean to each other.

Where do you go when you feel like dodging dad responsibilities once in a while?

I have three locations of choice. The first is B&Q/Wickes/Screwfix. In fact, every man walking around these stores is secretly hiding from his family. Secondly, the shed. It’s damp and has spiders in it – perfect for warding off girls. Lastly, the toilet. Dads (and more mums than I thought, actually) have been practicing the age-old art of hiding in there for years.

Fatherhood has taught me…

To be calm, kind and patient. You can’t reason with children in the same way you can an adult so adjust your approach accordingly, unless you want your blood pressure to sky-rocket.

What piece of advice can you give new dads?

Don’t enter fatherhood with too many expectations. Everyone finds their own way.

That said, don’t be afraid to ask your friends who have kids for advice. Traditionally, we men aren’t great at asking for help but we really need get over it and learn from others to make us the best dads we can be.

Follow on Instagram @father_of_daughters

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 87

Simply suits some babies better

Made from whole milk with far less processing Forms soft curds in the baby’s stomach, aiding digestion Available at stockists below, and also nationwide from selected health food stores and pharmacies by order if not already in stock. Simply quote ‘Alliance’ to your pharmacist for delivery within 24 hours.

Call 0800 328 5826

Email enquiry@nannycare.co.uk

Visit nannycare.co.uk

IMPORTANT NOTICE *NANNYcare® Follow on milk is only suitable for babies from 6 months, to complement breastfeeding or the start of weaning, as part of a varied and balanced diet. It is not intended as a breast milk substitute and is not suitable for babies under 6 months. It is recommended that NANNYcare Follow on milk is used only on the advice of a doctor, midwife, health visitor, public health nurse, dietitian, pharmacist,or other professional responsible for maternal and child care,based on your baby’s individual needs.NANNYcare Growing up milk is for young children between 1-3 years as part of a healthy balanced diet.

Goat milk formula is not suitable for infants with a cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a suitably qualified healthcare professional.

HEALTH

health & beauty

NEWS TH E L ATE ST R E SE ARCH AN D DEVELOPM ENTS IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING

SCANDI SKINCARE

BATHING JOY

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

The fairtrade crochet washcloths from Alegria are perfect for baby’s bathtime. The soft cotton yarn is gentle against delicate skin, the crochet stitching is better at producing foam and will dry faster than a towelling flannel, too. £14 (pack of two), alegriach.com

If there’s ever a time you need a multitasking wonder product, it’s as a new mother.

Thankfully, Scandi brand True Organic of Sweden has arrived in the UK with its miracle lotion, All You Need Is Me. From nipple cream to make-up primer, baby balm to sunburn soother – this moisturing lotion does it all. From £7.99, trueorganicofsweden.co.uk

GENTLY DOES IT

Inspired by the success of its awardwinning nappy cream, Childs Farm has introduced an entire range dedicated to newborns. There’s four new items, including baby massage oil and bedtime bubble bath, all made with the brand’s trademark natural, ‘freefrom’ ingredients. You can purchase the new range exclusively at Boots, with products starting at £3.99.

From 13 June, boots.com

A NEW REPORT BY THE INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE REVEALS THERE MAY BE NO NEED TO SLOW DOWN YOUR EXERCISE REGIME DURING PREGNANCY. RESEARCH SAW THAT KEEPING UP FITNESS LEVELS RESULTED IN BETTER BLOOD DISTRIBUTION, CARDIOVASCULAR CAPACITY AND JOINT FLEXIBILITY.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 89

FITNESS Hollie believes postnatal exercise should be about strengthening the body

A MODEL

TRAINER Jenni Baden Howard TALKS PR E- AN D POSTNATAL FITN E SS WITH PIL ATE S E XPERT Hollie Grant

t’s always refreshing to come across a fitness mentor who is as real as she is inspirational. Thankfully, Hollie Grant, London-based Pilates instructor and founder of The Model Method, is exactly that. Warm, approachable and boasting a seriously fun-but-motivational Instagram feed (thepilatespt), she’s all about helping women feel their healthy and fittest best, however much they’re juggling. Among those Hollie has worked with are wellness experts and foodie authors Melissa Hemsley and Ella Woodward, and the Sweaty Betty brand, for which she’s a global ambassador.

Hollie also counts many busy mamas among her clients, but she’s adamantly against the one-size-fits-all approach. “I often hear about the pressure new mums are under to snap back into shape after giving birth,” she says.

“I think focusing on how your body feels and is functioning should be far higher up the list of priorities than how it looks. Pilates is fantastic for new mums for so many reasons.

It’s low-impact, and it’s so important that your joints are exercised with care post-pregnancy and labour to allow them to recover correctly.

More than a third of new mums suffer incontinence, so low-impact exercise like this can reduce anxiety surrounding the effect this has on movement.”

I

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HOLLIE’S TOP TIPS

HOW YOUR BODY FEELS AND IS FUNCTIONING SHOULD BE A HIGHER PRIORITY THAN HOW IT LOOKS

92 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

The Model Method videos allow new mothers to exercise at a time to suit them

doctor is happy for you to do so, Pilates and yoga can be introduced.

“It is best to avoid high-impact exercise such as running, high intensity interval training (HIIT) for around six months – maybe longer if you are breastfeeding – as the hormone relaxin will still have an effect on your joints.”

Hollie’s teachings are now available to all in her online health and fitness course, The Model Method. “It combines 30- and 15-minute videos [one per day], making it ideal for those who are limited on time. A lot of our clients are mums who have found it easy to crack on with their videos in between nap and feeding times,” says Hollie. “The workouts are

Hollie has w orked with the likes of Sweaty Bet ty at the br and ’s head office

tailored to your particular goals and issues, so you know that you are maximising your time.

The only equipment needed is a resistance band, which is sent to you in your starter pack along with superfood goodies and my educational cookbook Nourish.”

Find out more about Hollie’s London classes at pilatespt.co.uk. For a bespoke plan, visit themodelmethod.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM/THEPILATESPT

Since Pilates focuses on core strengthening, explains Hollie, it’s ideal both before and after birth. “During pregnancy, your rectus abdominis slightly separates, which is perfectly normal. Occasionally, the separation can be more extreme – the condition is called Diastasis Recti – and cause problems later down the line. Pilates before pregnancy can be really helpful in preventing this, but a good postnatal Pilates instructor will know how to adapt exercises to prevent further issues and improve the problem. It not only strengthens the abdominals but also the pelvic floor. Also, a new mum will spend a lot of time leaning forwards and bending over to pick up her baby. Pilates works on strengthening the muscles in the back, core and legs, making all these tasks easier,” she adds.

So, how soon after birth should new mothers be working out? “Unfortunately, there is a lot of conflicting advice,” says Hollie.

“Of course, you should wait until you have had the all clear from your doctor, but we often have clients who have been signed off but actually have a bad case of Diastasis Recti and should not be carrying out abdominal exercises. So be careful to work with someone who is experienced with postnatal ladies.

“The protocol tends to be gentle exercise, such as walking and pelvic floor exercises, for the first six weeks after a vaginal birth and for 12 weeks after a c-section. After this, if your

• Be posture-aware. Mothers are forever leaning forward and this causes a lengthening of the postural muscles in the spine. Over time, these muscles become weak, leading to neck and back pain and often headaches. Pilates strengthens the back extensors which in turn become more effective at keeping your posture neutral.

• In Pilates, we focus on the breath – in through the nose and out through the mouth. This helps to relax the neck and jaw, is energising and stretches the muscles around the lungs. Place your hands on your rib cage, fingers spread wide. Breathe in through the nose and, as you do so, make sure your hands are being pushed apart (your ribcage is expanding). Hold for a second, then exhale out through the mouth until there is no air left at all in the lungs. Repeat. You should be able to hear the exhale, almost like you are blowing out a candle.

• Whatever you do, just listen to your body. If an exercise doesn’t feel right, avoid it and come back to it later.

WELLBEING

Home comforts N O TIM E FOR A SU PER MAR KE T STOP OR SALON APPOINTM ENT ?

N O PROBLEM . WE’ VE TRIED AN D TE STED TH E AT-HOM E SERVICE S MAKING LIFE FOR N EW MOTH ER S THAT LIT TLE BIT E ASIER

s any parent of small children will agree, there’s no time for an emergency manicure or last-minute blow-dry with a baby in tow. And when it comes to food shopping, the chance for new mothers to pack away the pushchair and hang up their meal-planning hat (at least for a little while) sounds nothing short of heaven.

Thank goodness, then, for the new breed of on-demand services bringing everything from pampering facials to market-fresh ingredients to our front doors. We’re talking spa-standard therapists, nourishing foods for the whole family and relaxing treats to enjoy while your little one is napping or playing.

To help you see what’s out there right now, we put five companies to the test, all dedicated to busy mothers. It’s time to sit back, breathe, and let these experts help you look and feel your best…

A

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WELLBEING

LeSalon offers at-home treatments, seven days a week, 365 days a year

Blow Ltd

LeSalon

What is it? If you’re a new mum, taking care of yourself in the way you did pre-baby goes on the backburner. You can only dream of finding a window to paint your nails, let alone have the time to wait for them to dry. That is why Blow Ltd’s premise of ‘fast beauty’ cries out as being the ideal way to get that pampering fix, all the while keeping one eye on your snoozing baby. You can book online or via the app, and the brand has two salons in central London.

Chloë says: I decided this face was in need of a pep-me-up, so I opted for a facial. All of these come as part of a package, so I paired mine with a gel manicure. Sara, my manicurist, arrived promptly with her tools, and just as my hands were having their top-coat dried, my therapist, Denise, arrived to start the facial.

She explains that although it can be done lying down, it’s designed to be done sitting upright.

And when she tells me my particular facial was initially created for the models backstage at Stella McCartney, my hopes sky-rocket!

The verdict? I was apprehensive about how much I’d enjoy having a treatment at home, but I was quickly put at ease. The facial was quick – living up to the company’s mantra – but I still felt very relaxed. Another advantage of having this done at home was allowing myself to stay make-up free and let the oils sink into my skin overnight. I woke up glowing!

Prices from £35, blowltd.com

What is it? This on-demand mobile beauty service promises to bring the ‘polish of a professional nail salon to your London home, office or hotel’. The app is easy to navigate, on a phone or desktop, and allows you to book treatments that fit your busy schedule and lifestyle – whether it’s a quick fix or a longer and more luxurious treatment. Plus, LeSalon works hard behind the scenes to provide flexible working opportunities for its professional technicians, many of whom are mothers themselves.

Kate says: One of the few places I refuse to take my baby or toddler is a nail salon. There’s no definitive research on whether phthalates – the chemicals present in many polishes – are harmful to babies or not, but I’m not willing to take any chances. So, I jump at the chance to try a Shellac manicure and pedicure at home one evening after bedtime. Christine, my technician, is incredibly professional and skilled, and gets going quickly. We chat about motherhood and compare toddler horrorstories, and before I know it my fingers and toes have been transformed.

The verdict? I’m delighted with the results and can’t believe how easy and enjoyable the whole experience had been, I only wish I’d found LeSalon sooner.

Prices from £25, lesalonapp.com

Chloë Collyer, creative director

Kate Finney, editor-in-chief

Milk Beauty

Rebecca Moore, managing editor What is it? As well as the mental aches and pains, newfound motherhood can bring about a strain on your body – but escaping the house for a massage is the last thing on a very long list. Thankfully, mobile beauty service Milk offers treatments in the comfort of your own home through its website. Plus, it’s easy to amend your appointment within 48 hours if something else crops up.

Rebecca says: When I heard Milk had launched its new full-body coconut massage, I was sold instantly. Simone, my therapist, arrived right on time with everything needed for the treatment – even a small, lavender-scented beanbag to fill the room with a calming aroma.

Although slightly apprehensive as to how a relaxing environment could be achieved in my noisy London flat, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I managed to switch off.

After swiftly setting up, Simone put on some soothing music and the blissful hour-long treatment began.

The verdict? The massage itself was both professional and relaxing. Naturally, the coconut oil left my skin feeling soft and rejuvenated, and it was a treat to completely drift off, if only for an hour.

Priced £70, milkbeauty.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 95

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Available at Argos, Babies R Us, Kiddicare, Mothercare, Very and all good independent nursery retailers.

simply brilliant.

WELLBEING Tasty and filling recipes include tamarind chicken and yellow pepper kebabs with red rice

SNAP ’APPY

On-demand services to your door in a flash? There’s an app for that…

LIKE MINDERS This babysitting and childcare service was started by two London mums.

Free to download on iTunes. likeminders.co.uk

Mindful Chef

Danielle Wilkins, features editor

LAUNDRAPP Order laundry and dry cleaning at the click of a button, with prices from just £2. laundrapp.com

FARMDROP The newest way to shop – Farmdrop allows you to have the freshest food from local producers across London delivered to you. farmdrop.com

BIZZBY Pro cleaner? Check. Plumber? Check. Man and van? Check. This super-handy service is available on both Apple and Android. bizzby.com

TRUBE Forget the gym slog, this app offers personal training at a time and place to suit you. Priced from £99 per month. trubeapp.com

Ruuby

Annie Quinton, editorial assistant What is it? Ruuby is London’s first beauty concierge app – perfect for busy mothers who simply don’t have the time (or energy) to venture outdoors in the pursuit of selfindulgence. Using its little black book of salons and therapists, you can book a plethora of beauty treatments, from deep-tissue massages to a speedy cut-and-colour, to enjoy at home.

Simply download the free app, and pay as you book. Alternatively, you can book and pay for services on the website, too.

Annie says: I booked a blow-dry at home with hairstylist Nico. I had been instructed to wash my hair before his arrival, which was perhaps the only downside of the whole experience – who doesn’t love having their hair washed for them? Nevertheless, he arrived promptly with his magic case of lotions and potions, ready and willing to tame my mane. Many hairdressers underestimate the amount of time it takes to blow-dry my thick hair, often resulting in a half-hearted ’do that quickly loses its shape. Nico, on the other hand, took the time to do the job properly.

The verdict? Despite the lengthy process, Nico kept me amused with celebrity anecdotes and tales of his Italian homeland, and even spoke kindly of my poorly made offering of coffee.

He left me, more than an hour later, with bouncy, glossy tresses worthy of a night out.

Prices from £28, ruuby.com

What is it? Of course, every parent has the intention of putting healthy, home-cooked meals on the table for their family. But with hectic schedules, little ones to look after and post-work hunger often ruling our lessthan-healthy choices, it’s not always possible.

Step up, then, Mindful Chef, which allows busy parents to dish up nourishing meals by delivering fresh, seasonal ingredients and recipes straight to your door.

Danielle says: I ordered the ‘Classic’ box for two people, which offers meat, fish and plantbased recipes that change weekly. A purely plant-based box is also available for vegans.

The box arrived promptly on Monday, in time for the busy week ahead, and I have to admit, it was a delight to not have to decide for myself what I was going to eat that night.

The ingredients for each recipe are separated into brown paper bags and had been kept perfectly chilled. The vegetables were vibrant and undeniably fresh, and the 30-minute recipes were easy to follow. Night one saw us create tamarind chicken and yellow pepper kebabs with red rice. The following evening we enjoyed a rich lentil and tomato bolognaise with courgetti and pine nuts. It was so tasty, even my usually carnivorous partner wasn’t worried about the lack of meat.

The verdict? Creative and convenient, Mindful Chef will definitely save new parents valuable time, and drag you out of your cookery rut.

All the recipes are gluten-free and made with organic produce. In short, it’s the subscription service that makes healthy dinners a doddle – and that’s something I can get on board with.

Two-person and four-person boxes available, from £7 per person. mindfulchef.com

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 97

BABY TALK

Diary of a

mum

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I

PART 3

IT MAY BE A FEW MONTH S AWAY, BUT Mar tha Alexander ALR E ADY HAS H ER BIRTH PL AN MAPPED OUT IN ON E WOR D…

feel as though I’ve been pregnant for a thousand years.

I’m so ready to meet the female kidney bean with the mean roundhouse kick, but I have still got a couple of months to wait. I know she needs to fatten up before I can get my mitts on her but I really miss her. How can I miss someone who literally lives inside me? How can I miss someone who I have never met? I don’t know, but I do.

I keep wondering if she’ll be late or catch me by surprise (Mum: “Television makes it look like you’re minding your own business in Peter Jones and suddenly your waters break and half-an-hour later a baby comes out. But it’s not like that.”).

Where will I be? How long will I have to wait?

I have my plan. It is very simple and I have been unswervingly loyal to it. I have not had visions of myself wallowing in a birthing pool listening to whale music in nothing but a sports bra, or hypnobirthing by candlelight on my kitchen floor, or asking for a caesarean.

I just want an epidural. Knowing that pain relief is the beginning and end of my birth plan is what has kept me sane.

But, as I’m beginning to discover, pregnancy is riddled with politics and often completely unsolicited advice.

I’m relaxed about what’s to come (although it could be a potent strand of denial masquerading as calmness) but with every tuppenceworth of advice given to me (from literally anyone – friends, nurses, the proprietor of St John’s Newsagent who is male and does not have any children) chunks of my cool façade crumble.

“Are you getting excited? Not long now!” The conversations always begin in a benign way. And then: “God, an epidural.

Really?” Or, “You won’t get the full experience…” Or possibly variants of the spectacularly patronising, “Babe, do you know what an epidural involves?”

I said to Dionne, my midwife, that my birth plan was basically “all the drugs” as well as shutting up for once in my life and listening to instruction.

I told her I thought the birthing suite looked lovely, but I know myself, and so I might as well head directly into the Victorian labour ward from the start and save everyone a lot

of time, energy and emotional trauma. She actually said it was rare to speak to an expectant mother who did not have a romanticised view of childbirth.

“Oh no, I’m confident that this is the closest to death I will have ever been...” I said smugly, vindicated in my plan.

I love Dionne. She is so wise that I am in danger of becoming co-dependent and treating her like a lifestyle guru, having to stop myself ringing her for non-pregnancy related reasons: “Oh, hi Dionne, just wondered if you think I can put jeans on a boil wash or if they are liable to shrink?” “Dionne, hi. Me again.

Do you think the DVLA will fine me for being late in updating the address on my license?” But I especially love her because she respected my choice regarding my non-existent birth plan: “I’m just going to write ‘epidural’, right?” she said, scrawling the word at the top of the blank A4 pages in my maternity file, usually dedicated to the intricacies of an expectant mother’s labour wishes.

So, given my feelings for Dionne, and how she understands me and carefully answers questions that I truly cannot publish, I was devastated when she told me she would probably not be there on the big day.

“But why?” I wailed, genuine panic decimating the last of my composure. “I need you to be there. I can’t do it without you!

I don’t know the other midwives! I won’t like them!”

I bartered with her for a bit (“well, is there any way I could drop you a quick text when I go into labour and if you fancy popping in, you can?”) but it turns out I am not the only pregnant woman on Dionne’s radar.

Anyway, I’m having an epidural and that is that. Until a friend told me she too wanted an epidural but when she got to hospital both anaesthetists were busy and she had to wait.

And wait. Until it was too late and she gave birth with the help of two paracetamol and a terrified boyfriend. With this fresh piece of hellish potential in mind, I am printing a sign to carry with me at all times, rather like a blood donor card: ‘DO NOT TELL ME IT’S TOO LATE FOR AN EPIDURAL…’ Next time: Martha tackles maternity leave

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 99

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HEALTH

The Breastfeeding Café with CLARE BYAM-COOK

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

“HOW DO I FIND A LATCHING TECHNIQUE THAT WORKS FOR ME?”

I

n the last edition, I asked why our breastfeeding rates in Britain were so low and questioned whether mothers were being given the right help and advice to get breastfeeding successfully established.

I mentioned two of the most common breastfeeding problems – difficulty in latching baby onto the breast and sore nipples – and now I would like to explain how you can avoid these problems and latch baby on quickly and easily, without pain.

The main reason why many mothers find it difficult to latch is because breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Large breasts with flat nipples make latching harder than small breasts with prominent nipples. In the past, midwives used to show mothers how to shape their breast to make it easier for their baby to latch on, but nowadays mothers are told that they must leave their baby to do it alone.

The current thinking is that the mother should line her baby up with his nose in front of her nipple and then wait for him to open his mouth wide and latch on of his own accord.

The problem with this is that many babies don’t open their mouths wide enough, so they either struggle to latch on at all or end up sucking on the nipple rather than on the breast – and this hurts!

When your baby is latched on correctly, his sucking should not hurt at all. Another bonus of a good latch is that it makes it easier for your baby to ‘milk’ your breast, which means he can feed more quickly and efficiently, so feeds will often become shorter.

Hopefully the technique I have offered opposite is enough to help you resolve any latching problems you might be having, but if it doesn’t work, both my books and DVD go into more detail about how to latch your baby on and how breastfeeding works. I also discuss all the questions new mothers tend to ask me, such as how you can tell whether your baby is sucking properly, when to swap breasts and how you know when your baby has had enough milk. clarebyamcook.co.uk

And if you buy only one thing…

Clare’s DVD offers invaluable, practical advice on everything from reducing the pain of sore nipples to how to swaddle and settle a baby after feeding, and everything in between.

Breastfeeding Without Tears £15.99, amazon.co.uk

TRY THIS AT HOME • If the ‘nose-to-nipple’ isn’t working for you, you might like to try this simple technique which I teach my clients. This involves making your breasts smaller, rather than expecting your baby to open his mouth wider, using the same principle as trying to post a large parcel into a small letterbox – if the opening is too narrow, you have to squash the parcel to make it fit in! This is how you do it: • Place your baby on a pillow so he is level with your breast and has his mouth (rather than his nose) in front of your nipple.

• Slide your hand underneath your breast and place the balls of your thumb and middle finger level with your nipple and on the outside of the areola at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock position.

• Gently squeeze your breast until your nipple protrudes.

• Brush your nipple against your baby’s lips until he opens his mouth, then bring him swiftly to the breast so you get as much areola as possible into his mouth. I call this the ‘shape-and-shove’ technique!

In the next issue, Clare will be discussing breastfeeding aids, such as nipple shields and breast pumps, and how to use them.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 101

PREGNANCY

feeling hot, hot, hot SUMM ER CAN BE A CHALLENGE WH EN YOU ’R E PR EGNANT. H ER E’S HOW TO KEEP YOU R COOL, SAYS Louisa van den Bergh OF LU LU BABY

t is lovely to have some sunshine after what feels like a very long winter, but for those who are pregnant, it can be a double-edged sword as extra weight, extra blood flow and hormonal changes can all contribute to feeling more uncomfortable than usual. We know that a warm spell in the UK doesn’t tend to last for long, so make the most of having a good excuse to not do too much.

Put your feet up, enjoy a glass of lemonade and check out these tips on staying healthy throughout the summer…

I

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COTTON FRESH It may sound obvious, but make sure you wear clothes made from natural fibres such as cotton or linen. It’s amazing how many clothes (especially stretchy maternity ones) are made from man-made materials, such as nylon or viscose, which really don’t allow your skin to breathe. Also, try to avoid dark-coloured clothes (which will naturally attract the sun) and stick to loose-fitting clothing to help keep the air circulating around your body and avoid unsightly sweat patches.

STAY PROTECTED As a general rule, you should avoid sitting in the sun for too long but, of course, it’s impossible to stay in the shade at all times. SPF is an essential (look for the most natural brands), especially as your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy and the sun can accelerate melanin production, leading to pigmentation.

PREGNANCY

BEWARE THE BARBIE Nothing says summer like a barbecue, but make sure when eating meat or fish that it is properly cooked. Sausages can blacken quickly but still be raw inside. One option is to cook the meat in the oven and then pop it on the barbecue for that chargrilled flavour.

Avoid homemade mayos (often made with raw egg) and any food which has been wilting in the heat for too long.

Light-coloured clothing, staying hydrated and keeping your feet raised can all help ease discomfort

SNACK SMART Some foods are more refreshing than others.

You probably won’t feel like tucking into beef casserole in the height of summer anyway, but choose foods with high water content such as cucumber, iceberg lettuce and watermelon.

Don’t forget to keep it balanced, though – cucumber, although refreshing, won’t give you all the nutrients you need to nourish yourself and your baby!

BAG OF TRICKS Pop a hand-held fan and water spray in your handbag to use when you are overheating while on the go. Give yourself a little spritz with water first and then use the fan. It works as an instant cooling fix as the water evaporates off you.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

GET SOME POOL TIME

THAT SWELLING FEELING

KEEP HYDRATED

Many pregnant women find that they swell in the heat, which can make you feel even more uncomfortable. This is water retention, or oedema, which mostly affects feet, ankles and hands. It may sound counterintuitive but drinking plenty of fluids, and minimising your salt intake, can help. If possible, avoid standing for long periods of time and try to keep your feet raised. If you experience sudden swelling, see your doctor as this can sometimes be a sign of pre-eclampsia or high blood pressure.

It’s really important to keep up your fluid intake during pregnancy, especially at this time of year, so carry a bottle of cold water around with you. Lukewarm water just doesn’t hit the spot, so be sure to leave it in the freezer overnight so it defrosts during the day. If water doesn’t float your boat, mix things up with homemade lemonade or ginger and lemongrass water. If you have been sweating a lot, you may want to consider orange juice or milk to help replace lost electrolytes.

It is good to continue with exercise while pregnant and it can help reduce swelling but nobody wants to go on a brisk walk in the heat. The perfect solution is swimming – weight-less exercise in cool water. Check out your nearest lido or swimming pool. If swimming isn’t an option, try light walking or exercising gently at the coolest time of the day and where possible stick to a shady route.

COOLING CLOTH You might have seen damp cloths being applied to feverish patients – well, it really works! Apply a cold, damp cloth or flannel to your forehead, the back of your neck or your wrists to help reduce body temperature. lulubaby.co.uk

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HEALTH

meet

the

EXPERTS OU R PAN EL OF H E ALTHCAR E PROFE SSIONAL S AN SWER YOU R QU E STION S ABOUT PR EGNAN C Y, BIRTH AN D BEYON D

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HEALTH

THE PLACENTA, EXPLAINED

MY DAUGHTER TURNED A YEAR OLD A FEW MONTHS AGO, WHAT MILESTONES SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR IN HER SECOND YEAR?

I’M GOING ON HOLIDAY WITH MY TODDLER AND YOUNG BABY, WHAT SHOULD I TAKE ON THE PLANE? Travelling with a baby and toddler can be a daunting prospect, but with a bit of preparation you can all enjoy a happy and healthy holiday.

When flying, remember to pack small sachets of Calpol or Nurofen as they can help your little one if the air pressure hurts their ears. Chewing, sipping water or sucking on a dummy during take-off can also help.

Pack enough toys and books to keep them occupied during the journey, and a special toy or blanket to encourage them to sleep. Have a good supply of snacks in case they won’t eat the food given out on the plane.

If permitted, take your buggy as far as the departure gate, or many designs are now so compact that they can be stored in the overhead lockers. A baby sling can also be helpful – if your buggy is in the hold, it is not returned until baggage reclaim.

Get to the airport in good time as you may be allocated specific seats; bassinets are generally available for babies up to two years.

It is usually possible to pre-order baby food and ready-to-drink formula through Boots airside store. Remember to take enough for the flight and to acclimatise once abroad, and order at least seven days prior to departure.

Always travel with toilet roll, tissues, hand sanitiser and a compact first aid kit. Add additional first aid items relevant to your trip and attend a first aid course tailored to the particular needs of your family holiday.

Emma Hammett, founder, firstaidforlife.org.uk

With greater mobility and a better overview when standing, children learn about the features of objects through visual, oral and manual exploration in their second year.

They can now use the more sophisticated and useful pinch grip with their little fingers.

These advanced physical skills are combined with big mental and social developments.

Children learn to distinguish between themselves and others, and start to become more independent. They tolerate temporary separation from parents more easily – this is an important aspect of their social development and a prerequisite for longer nursery attendances.

In their second year, children will develop their own self-determined will. Their improving language skills enable them to express this and say what they want – ‘no’ becomes a very popular word! Your child will start to imitate and want to ‘help’ you, drink from a cup and eat with a spoon, and take off their clothes on their own (with a little help).

Typically, children between one and two years of age can play alone for a while.

Container games, where things are put from one box into another, are very popular with one year olds and help them to understand sizes, shapes and spatial relationships as well as the function of everyday items. Other milestones typically seen at two years of age include the ability to kick a ball and climb stairs (two feet per step); build a tower with two to four cubes (showing hand preference); speak six to 12 words, and display symbolic play, for example, ‘talking’ on a telephone, or ‘helping’ in household chores.

Consult your doctor if you have any doubts about your child’s motor, social or speech development, or notice any of the following: a regression in development (loss of their acquired skills), no walking by 18 months (in males) or 20 months (in females), no speech by 18 months or out-of-control tantrums.

Dr Tobias Odenwald, richmondpractice.co.uk

What is the difference between natural and active delivery of the placenta?

The difference between the two is that with the natural delivery, no drugs are given.

Your midwife or obstetrician will wait for the umbilical cord to stop pulsating before clamping the cord, and then will await spontaneous delivery of the placenta. This can take up to an hour, but the timing can vary. Holding and feeding your baby, as well as passing urine or sitting upright, can help.

With an active third stage of labour (the stage where the placenta is delivered), a drug called syntometrine is given into your thigh, usually as the baby’s body is delivering. You won’t feel it as you will be busy delivering your baby! This drug helps the uterus to contract more quickly, so the placenta will separate and deliver without a delay – the benefit is a reduction in the incidence of excessive blood loss. It is particularly recommended if you have had a long labour, required drugs during the labour to make you contract, have twins or fibroids, or if you have an instrumental or caesarean delivery – all of which can increase the risk of bleeding. The placenta is smaller and much softer than your baby so apart from feeling an urge to push, it rarely feels painful.

What are the benefits of delayed cord clamping?

This is where the cord is clamped after it stops pulsating – which can take several minutes. It allows your baby to get more blood from the placenta while acclimatising to the outside world, and appears to decrease anaemia in little ones. It is safe as long as there is no concern about your baby needing resuscitation or with you bleeding excessively.

What is stem cell collection?

This is collection of blood from the umbilical cord after clamping and cutting by specialist companies who will extract your baby’s stem cells and freeze them. It is still experimental but may be helpful if your child has certain illnesses later in life. There is an ongoing donation programme in the NHS for stem cell research and you may be asked to participate.

You will not be able to have delayed clamping if you wish to have stem cell collection, as this will affect the amount of blood collected.

Dr Shazia Malik, consultant gynaecologist and obstetrician, theportlandhospital.com

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HEALTH

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF VISITING A CHIROPRACTOR DURING PREGNANCY? While pregnancy is a time to be enjoyed, as many know it really can be a pain in the backside (or the shoulders, back or groin).

Your body will change as it adapts to your growing baby. As well as changes in posture and mechanical stressors, your spinal curves will become exaggerated and the hormone relaxin will be secreted. Chiropractic care can be a real saviour during pregnancy, not only to relieve the aches and pains but also to ensure that the pelvis is functioning correctly and in good alignment to help to enable a growing baby to get into the desired position and sit comfortably within the womb.

Vital and dramatic changes take place in the body, and these changes can put a huge amount of strain on a mother’s joints and the supporting muscles. Chiropractic care helps to achieve balance in the body, ensure that the joints are functioning well and that the muscles aren’t having to work overtime.

While, as chiropractors, we can’t stop the changes that take place, we can support the body through the process and enable it to remain as strong as possible, ready for labour.

Polly Hand, chiropractor and doula, chiropracticbyhand.com

WHY DO MY BREASTS PRODUCE DIFFERENT AMOUNTS OF MILK? Firstly, do not worry, this is totally normal.

Many find that the right breast produces more milk than the left. You will also find that your baby has a preferred side and therefore will suck more effectively, resulting in taking in more milk which will increase the supply. This is the same if you exclusively pump for the same amount of time from each breast, one will always make more, and each feel different.

To be honest, you don’t need to do anything. However, if this is bothering you, you could start feeding from the breast that produces the least to see if this helps. If this makes no difference, don’t be alarmed as this is all perfectly normal.

If you believe your breast is feeling empty it is important not to squeeze your nipple to see if there is more milk, there will be when doing this, as right behind the nipple is a tiny reserve which will release just a few drops. Instead, with a flat hand, rub down from the top of your breast to the nipple, and work all the way around your breast.

Deearna Withey, founder, deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk

For lots of us, that pregnancy glow we were promised goes the other way. We go from peachy skin to acne or dry itchiness. There are things we can do, with a two-pronged approach of eating healthy fats and slathering them on our skin. Omega 3 is the ultimate nutrient during pregnancy. Not only does it play a critical role in the development of baby’s brain and protecting yours, it can help with skin problems. Omega 3 is most abundant in oily fish such as anchovies, sardines and mackerel, as well as plant-based foods like flaxseeds and chia seeds. Or, you could try taking fish oil supplements which are high in DHA (a type of Omega 3), too.

Omega 3 supports sebum production, a waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands that helps keep our skin hydrated and elastic. Approximately 57% of sebum is made from essential fatty acids, including Omega 3. Mum’s Omega 3 is prioritised for her baby’s brain and nervous system, and if there’s not enough in the diet we become deficient.

This leaves tight and dry skin, increasing the risk of stretch marks. Your baby also puts pressure on your vessels. For some women, it can result in spider-like veins. DHA is a key structural component of blood vessels. More importantly, Omega 3 has been shown to widen blood vessels, helping reduce the risk of broken capillaries.

Hormonal fluctuations can result in flareups on the face, back and chest. Omega 3 is well known for its anti-inflammatory benefits and may help reduce these symptoms, while balancing our hormones. Combine eating Omega 3 with slathering coconut or avocado oils on your skin; both are completely safe and natural with plenty of benefits for you and your baby’s health.

Melanie Lawson, founder, barebiology.com

OUR PANEL

Emma Hammett

Dr Tobias Odenwald

Deearna Withey

Polly Hand

Melanie Lawson

Dr Shazia Malik

First Aid for Life

Richmond Practice

Deearna’s Maternity Agency

Chiropractic by Hand

Bare Biology

The Portland Hospital

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

WHAT CAN I EAT TO IMPROVE MY SKIN DURING PREGNANCY?

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.

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Time to Talk…

LATE SCANS

MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

The sisters discuss the option of a late scan during 34-36 weeks of pregnancy Should I have a late scan?

Women having their first child are often surprised at how little the NHS scans mothers-to-be during the 40 weeks of their pregnancy.

For those who are deemed low risk, they’ll have a scan at 12 weeks, and another at 20 weeks but then, as long as there are no concerns, the next time you’ll see your baby is when they are born.

There is, however, growing evidence that having a late scan at 34-36 weeks might reduce the stillbirth rate, of which the UK is among the highest in developed countries. It will probably take time for the NHS to be persuaded that the extra cost is worth the benefit but that doesn’t stop some couples from paying and arranging for a late scan to be done privately.

What is checked at a late scan?

The sonographer will have a good look at your baby – measuring the size of the head, abdomen

and thigh bone so they can estimate a foetal weight and check the growth is normal.

A midwife usually checks a baby’s growth by measuring the mother’s abdomen. While this does give an idea of growth, it is an estimate and cannot take into account the size your organs, fat, the size of the placenta and the amount of amniotic fluid that may be hiding a small baby.

A sonographer will also look at the placenta. This organ is your baby’s lifeline; it is wholly responsible for oxygenating and nourishing your baby in utero.

The position is also crucial – if it is anywhere near the cervix, it is dangerous to have a vaginal delivery. However, this is usually picked up at the 20-week scan.

Most sonographers will offer a Doppler ultrasound, which looks at the blood flow to the foetus from the placenta. If there is any restriction, your baby’s life could be at risk. Professor Kypros

Nicolaides, who pioneered the 12-week nuchal scan and Down’s Syndrome test, believes that offering women Doppler scans at 12, 22 and 32 weeks could half the national stillbirth rate.

The amount of amniotic fluid will be noted. Your baby is constantly swallowing and peeing this fluid, so it’s important there’s enough of it.

Around 95% of babies naturally get into the head-down position, which is the safest way to be delivered. But of the five per cent of breech babies, half of these are undiagnosed, meaning the medical team only realise the baby is coming bottom-first when they can see the bottom, rather than the head, emerging.

Usually, midwives are pretty good at feeling the mother’s stomach and working out which position the baby is in. If there are any concerns, they’ll recommend a scan, which is the only fail-safe way to determine the position.

Are there any negatives to having a late scan?

Probably the biggest issue is the cost – around £150. It’s worth remembering that the majority of pregnancies where women aren’t offered a late scan are low risk, and their babies are born healthily and safely. Every choice is individual, but we believe it’s worth being aware of the possible benefits, so you can make an informed decision.

Where can I have it done?

Many places offer this privately, including The Fetal Medicine Centre (fetalmedicine.com), The Medical Chambers (themedicalchambers.com) and Ultrasound Diagnostic Service (uds.uk.com).

Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are founders of The Bump Class, with classes in Parsons Green and South Kensington. thebumpclass.com

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REAL LIFE

The family do everything they can to help Laurence be the best he can be

Natasha and Laurence

A PINCH OF

stardust

Older brother Henry is particularly protective of his younger sibling

WH EN H ER SON SU FFER ED A DEVASTATING STROKE AT BIRTH , PAR ENTHOOD AS SH E KN EW IT CHANGED FOR Natasha Wood remember being in hospital after having my first son, Henry. I was attempting to walk under strict orders of the nurses. I had just experienced an emergency c-section after Henry had decided he had no intention of making an appearance.

It took me five minutes just to straighten my body into a semi-upright position, as I shuffled along the hospital corridor looking remarkably like my elderly nana who had acute arthritis.

It was on my second lap that I passed a room with two women in it. One of the women was in deep conversation with a doctor and a nurse, nodding with silent tears streaming down her face. The other was walking towards me holding on to a man who

I

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Laurence required surgery almost immediately after being born

reflected her tired eyes. I stopped as I watched them head towards the neonatal unit, and took a minute to remind myself that despite the pain I was in, I had a beautiful, healthy boy and I should count myself lucky.

Fast-forward four years and I found myself in that same room with those same tired eyes and silent tears. I had experienced another emergency c-section but this time things hadn’t gone quite so well. My partner, Matt, had gone home to look after Henry and get some rest. It was 3am, and I was woken by a nurse who explained that our baby boy was having seizures and they were taking him for an MRI. Later, we were taken into a room and told that Laurence had suffered a massive Grade 4 bleed on his brain. In other words, he had suffered a stroke and was about to be transferred to King’s College Hospital for surgery. Consent wasn’t needed as this was a matter of life and death.

REAL LIFE

The outcome was poor. If he did make it through the surgery, his ability to lead a normal life would be seriously compromised.

He wouldn’t be able to walk or, in fact, move his right side at all. Speech and eating would also be affected and he would most likely have severe learning and behavioural difficulties.

Life inside a neonatal unit is surreal.

Amongst the beeps and flashing lights, and the hustle and bustle of the incredible doctors and nurses, lie teeny-tiny beings, many no bigger than your hand, hanging on to life with the help of machines and drugs, and the overwhelming love of their families.

Weeks went by, and tubes were gradually removed, oxygen was decreased and visitors appeared. Laurence was moved out of NICU and into a less-dependent room but still under 24-hour care. He was defying the odds and doing well enough for us to be given a date to take him home, six weeks after he had arrived into our world.

The doctors decided to do another MRI, to make sure everything was good to go – this was when they found further swelling. They decided to keep him in for more vital surgery and to fit him with a shunt, a clever contraption that relieves fluid pressure on the brain. We left the hospital without our son to get more clothes, and for the first time, I cried solidly throughout the night and into the morning.

After the surgery and recovery time, we were finally able to take Laurence home after almost two months of being in the hospital. Before we left, we had one last visit from one of the surgeons who had saved Laurence’s life. It was during this conversation that I feel the future changed for our son.

She explained that, of course, we would want to find out why this had happened, but there was a strong chance we would never know. And, of course, we would want to find out what we could expect in terms of what his abilities might be but, again, there was a chance we would never know. But what she could tell us was that all babies are born with brain plasticity, which means that although the brain begins to form just three weeks after conception, brain development is a life-long journey. The brain forms pathways as babies grow, learn and experience new things. Many of Laurence’s pathways had been damaged as a result of the stroke but he could still form new ones. For example, he may have been right-handed but because his right side was

damaged, his brain would form a new pathway leading him to be left-handed, instead.

We clung to this information like barnacles to a vessel. We decided that what had happened, had happened and there was nothing we could do to change it. Instead, we would do everything we could to help Laurence be the best that he could be. If we were told he wouldn’t be able to talk, we would find a way to help him communicate.

If we were told he couldn’t walk, we would

Laurence spent the first two months of his life in hospital

night out, slightly wobbly myself, when I opened a video emailed to me from my mum. I subsequently burst into tears and was stopped by a man who was concerned that something terrible had happened to me. After explaining and showing him the video, the man began to cry, too!

Developmentally, Laurence is clearly behind.

He is not talking properly but is about to start speech therapy. He has cerebral palsy but is having block therapy. He’s had more hospital visits than I’ve had in my lifetime.

Matt and I have had amazing support from our parents, close friends and Laurence’s nursery, and I hope they know how much we appreciate everything they do. There are no words or actions that could possibly match our feelings towards them.

Our eldest son, Henry, goes to a Church of England school. Matt and I are both atheists but my mother’s side of the family are Hindu. We try to give our boys a balanced and impartial view on different beliefs, as well as all the necessary tools to decide for themselves what they believe. It’s not an easy thing to do, most of the time I feel like I’m overthinking the subject and we should just stick to reading them books about dinosaurs, space and Greek mythology.

However, we were walking past the church attached to Henry’s school one day, when I overheard him talking to his dad about where we came from. “Did me and Laurence come from God?” he asked. “No, you came from mummy and me,” said Matt.

“But don’t we all come from God?” “Well, some people believe that, other people believe we came from other gods, but what actually happened is that every atom in your body came from a star that exploded.

And, even more amazing is that the atoms in your left hand probably came from a different star than your right hand.”

Henry turned to Laurence and beamed, “Did you hear that Laurence, we are made from stardust, isn’t that cool?”

I often look at Laurence and think about what he has been through. I try not to dwell on what his future may or may not hold but ultimately my thoughts end with this: Laurence is happy, he is loved and he is a fighter. He and his brother continue to amaze us with their humour, compassion for each other and their ability to try their best in all they do.

They are mine and Matt’s true loves, our world. Our very own pinches of stardust.

WE LEFT HOSPITAL WITHOUT OUR SON – I CRIED SOLIDLY THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT AND INTO THE MORNING find a way for him to get from A to B. We got ourselves referred to any type of early intervention we could knowing that the first three years of his life would be key to helping him develop to the best of his ability.

Laurence is now two years old and his story is far from over. He has worked harder in the last 24 months than anyone I have ever known. It’s not been easy – we’ve taken lots of punches. Our parents had to fork out £2,000 to have a cranial helmet fitted to correct his severe flat head from being in NICU for so long; we discovered he was only partially sighted; he began having absent seizures, and he doesn’t have any use of his right arm.

But for every hit there came a hug, like when he started to feed himself, or laugh in delight at his older brother’s presence; being weaned off his medication as a result of him being seizure-free for a year; handing me a biscuit and saying his first word, “there”, and taking his first wobbly steps unaided – this I discovered on my way home from a work

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SHOPPING

THE REVIEW

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THE LITTLE GREEN SHEEP

Custom Mattress

For a high-quality mattress to suit all your Moses, crib or carrycot needs, this handcrafted mattress can be created with square or rounded edges. Made of completely natural fibres, including organic wool, it’s a pure, supportive and eco-friendly sleep environment for baby.

From £59.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

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RED CASTLE

Cocoonababy Nest Developed by a paediatrician and a physiotherapist, this ergonomic cocoon mimics the secure and tranquil feel of the womb, which has been proven to help little ones develop their sleep patterns. The design also reduces issues such as flat head syndrome and gastric reflux. £129.99, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

SLEEPYHEAD

BABYMOOV

SLEEPCURVE

For babies that love to be held, this sleeping aid will replicate the freedom yet security and reassurance of the womb. It is also one of the few products that can be used for co-sleeping – babies often settle better knowing mum is nearby. £110; covers from £55, johnlewis.com

This snug sleep positioner offers posture support for newborns. Made of breathable memory foam, it sculpts to your baby’s body shape, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal stress while cradling them to prevent anxiety and sudden movement. The removable leg bolster helps to keep legs in a natural position, too. £29.99, babymoov.co.uk

This innovative new mattress, designed by a renowned paediatric osteopath, ensures a healthy sleep for baby.

The ergonomic ‘curve’ opens up your little one’s airwaves, dissipates excess body heat, reduces reflux and relieves pressure on the skull to help prevent flat head syndrome. £73, sleepcurve.com

Deluxe Portable Baby Pod

Cosydream

Moses Basket Mattress

‘Coolest on ‘Coolest moses moses basket basket on Earth’ ‘Coolest moses basket on Earth’ Earth’ allbabyadvice.com allbabyadvice.com allbabyadvice.com

buy now from buy now from www.mobauk.com buy now from www.mobauk.com www.mobauk.com

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Give your little one the greatest welcome home gift with a luxury nursery to call their own. Izziwotnot have joyfully spent over 40 years carefully crafting beautiful nurseries for little bundles of joy.

Our beautiful Bailey cot bed and matching nursery furniture is available in natural oak, mahogany or elegant white and will make any nursery feel like home.

Shop our dreamy award-winning collection online at www.izziwotnot.com

www.izziwotnot.com

Izziwotnot

@Izziwotnot

interior

NEWS

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

THE SOHO SOLUTION Silver Cross has added some swish new furniture designs to its collection of nursery products. Introducing the Soho – a revolutionary combo dressing unit with a patented hidden changing station that comes out with just one press. If space is an issue, the Soho could be the perfect solution.

The three deep drawer units have soft close, and the wardrobe has double hanging rails. A matching cot is also available. Prices from £300 for the cot, £595 for the dressing unit. silvercrossbaby.com

TOP TOY BOXES

BABY BRIGHTS

Following the successful launch of Berlin-based Noé + Zoë babywear in Harrods last season, this summer will see the launch of the highly anticipated nursery accessories line. Featuring the brand’s signature neon and monochrome star prints and iconic bold stripes, the organic cotton collection is perfect for giving your little one’s space a modern makeover. harrods.com

Hit refresh with a scattering of these cool, contemporary pieces

PAINT THE WHOLE HOUSE GREEN

Top to bottom: ‘Mr Bear’ storage stool, £50, gltc.co.uk. Wooden storage bench, £48.30, verbaudet.co.uk.

HelloHome stacking storage, £49.99, mothercare.com. ‘Race Track’ toy box and desk, £100, whiterosebaby.com.

When it comes to decorating your baby’s nursery, you want to create the ultimate cocoon that’s free from toxic nasties. This was the case for decorator and dad-of-two Phil Robinson, who began his career working for Channel 4’s Sarah Beeny. He was only too aware of the potential damage that conventional paints can do, so, in 2007, decided to launch his own eco-friendly, non-toxic, designer paint brand, Paint The Town Green. Now, you’ll find the label’s very first showroom in Allfarthing Lane, Wandsworth. paintthetowngreen.biz

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BEAUTY

LITTLE DREAMERS

In those first few months, your baby can sleep up to 18 hours a day.

Fortunately, the days of scratchy Moses baskets that creak at every turn are long gone – now your newborn can sleep soundly in the cosiest of dens. Clockwise from top left: for traditional styling in a neutral palette, turn to this example from Izziwotnot (from £99, izziwotnot.com); design buffs will love the style of MoKee’s ‘Wool Nest’ bassinet (from £89.95, en.mokee.eu); handmade in Devon, this adorable willow addition from Naturalmat will be the focal point of any nursery (£295, naturalmat.co.uk); pick a hue to suit your room with the modern, eco basket from Moba (£99, mobauk.com).

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The Online Baby Boutique Enter LB5 at checkout for £5 off!

www.lucyandbelle.com

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of f

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I can dream...

About mummy and daddy and my favourite things...

sleep-pod ™ is the deluxe sleep aid and sunshade that helps your baby nap-on-the-go. Easy to fit to buggies and car seats, it offers superior ventilation and can be used in 4 ways to block light and up to 99% of UV.

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INTERIORS

NURSERY FENG SHUI Louise Pyne DISCOVER S H OW TO CR E ATE A H E ALTHY AN D HAR MONIOUS ENVIRONM ENT FOR YOU R BABY IN FIVE E ASY STEPS cosy refuge for feeding, playing and sleeping – your baby’s nursery needs to fulfil multiple roles, so it makes sense to maximise its potential as best you can. A happy environment naturally equals a happier child, so by better understanding the dynamics of a living space you can start to create a welcoming retreat of peace and calm for your little bundle of joy.

Cue feng shui. This ancient Chinese art is all about putting strategic measures in place to ensure that energy flows freely through its surroundings. “The function of feng shui is to design the best and healthiest bedroom for babies so they can grow up healthy, intelligent and happy,” explains feng shui consultant Jan Cisek of Feng Shui London. Here, we’ve rounded up the ultimate tips to create a haven of yin and yang for your child.

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Create a peaceful environment for your little one with the right palette. We love the natural tones available from Camomile London

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 119

INTERIORS

1

Natural wooden cots, like this design from Piccoli & Co, should be placed against a wall for soothing support

COLOUR THEM HAPPY Colours naturally influence our mood, so it makes sense to adapt a colour scheme to suit your baby’s needs. “Colours should be used as a background prop and should be more calming than stimulating, for example, light apple green works better than a bright, grassy green. At the same time, warm and nourishing pastels can work well as they are not too overwhelming,” advises Jan. We like Tunsgate Green and Cooking Apple Green from Farrow & Ball, below.

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SWEET DREAMS Placement of the cot is the most important aspect of feng shui for a child’s bedroom, because if your baby sleeps well, they will thrive. “The best place is away from the door and window, and with the support of a wall. Foam mattresses and wooden cots are best, since they won’t attract electrostress (so, no metal spring mattress or metal cots). Never place the baby monitors too near the cot as these create electromagnetic pollution,” says Jan.

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PICTURE PERFECT

Winnie The Pooh photo frame £20, johnlewis.com

Displaying family photos in your baby’s nursery helps create an environment of love and offers an anchor of belonging. “Photos will help your baby to develop a sense of identity and self-esteem in due course, and photos of babies doing things, having fun and learning new skills will naturally boost their serotonin levels,” explains Jan.

Cotton-blend babygrow, £26, Aden + Anais

4

Trousselier musical mobile £49, piccoliandco.com

Organic cotton basket £24, fermliving.com

Organic cotton play blanket £59, olliella.com

TOUCH AND FEEL Natural fabrics can help to create a nourishing environment where you baby feels safe.

“Use warm and soft organic rugs and vibrant, rich stimulating objects to boost the senses.

Personalisation of their rooms is important, and even small babies have preferences,” maintains Jan. We love the idea that babies are interiors experts from the word go!

Cotton whale cushion £35, ivycabin.com

5

CENTRE POINT Creating a focal point in the centre of the room will provide a natural sense of equilibrium.

“Instead of hanging a mobile above the cot, hang it in the centre of the ceiling so that when the baby lies down their attention is drawn to the centre of the room,” advises Jan.

BABY LONDON

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Rainforest Cafe is a unique venue bringing to life the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

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Includes gluten free, dairy free and organic options for kids.

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food

NEWS

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

BIBS MADE FUN TASTE OF THE MED New organic baby food brand Piccolo has launched in Waitrose.

The purées are inspired by the Mediterranean approach to health and wellbeing, with 10% of the profits going towards the NCT. The six flavours include cherry yogurt with wholegrain oats, and spring greens with mint. Suitable from six months. £1.10, waitrose.com

STEELY KLEAN

Already a hit in New Zealand, the bibs from Make My Day are now available in the UK. Stain-resistant and BPA-free, they’re inspired by imaginative play, with designs including a smart tuxedo, string of pearls, and plenty of cheeky animals. All the bibs are dishwashersafe, feature the all-important crumb catcher and, thanks to the adjustable strap, can be used throughout your little one’s foodie journey. £14.99, cheekyrascals.co.uk

The soft, stain-resistant bibs can be worn again and again and still look great

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

For a cool, sustainable alternative to plastic baby bottles, Klean Kanteen has launched its stainless steel version. The BPA- and toxin-free bottle has various teats available, and the contoured shape and wide mouth encourages a natural-paced feed.

Available from July. £15.95, whitbyandco.co.uk

A STUDY BY ASTON, LOUGHBOROUGH AND BIRMINGHAM UNIVERSITIES HAS REVEALED THAT REWARDING KIDS WITH FOOD IN EARLY LIFE MAY LEAD TO EMOTIONAL EATING. FEEDING PRACTISES WITHIN A GROUP AGED 3-5 WERE MONITORED, THEN AGAIN AT AGES 5-7. THE CHILDREN WHO WERE EMOTIONALLY FED AT A YOUNGER AGE LATER SOUGHT OUT HIGH FAT, HIGH SUGAR TREATS TO CURB THEIR STRESS.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 123

FOOD

Taste of

SUMMER

Annabel Karmel COOKS U P SEN SATIONAL SUMM ERTIM E DISH E S FOR LIT TLE DIN ER S

reating the flavour of summer is easy with these tasty and refreshing purées. Pack in a punch of fruity goodness by using seasonal strawberries, peaches, pears and apricots to create delicious flavour combinations. If you can, it’s always best to taste any fruit yourself before giving it to your baby to ensure it has fully ripened.

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Having fed more than four million babies worldwide, Annabel’s New Complete Baby & Toddler Meal Planner (£14.99, Ebury Press) turns 25 this year with a special anniversary edition complete with brand new recipes and a pull-out weaning chart.

124 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

BANANA & PEACH PURÉE SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 1 PORTION INGRE DIE NTS

1 small ripe banana, peeled and sliced 1 small ripe peach, skinned, stoned and cut into pieces METHOD

• Simply mash together the banana and peach flesh.

FOOD

PEACH, APPLE AND STRAWBERRY PURÉE SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 2 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

1 large apple, peeled, cored and chopped 1 large peach, peeled, stoned and chopped 75g strawberries, halved 1 tbsp baby rice METHOD

• Steam the apple for around 4 minutes.

• Add the peach and strawberries to the steamer and continue to cook for a further 3 minutes.

• Blend the fruits to a smooth purée and stir in the baby rice.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 125

FOOD PEACH, APPLE, APRICOT AND PEAR SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 3 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

75g dried apricots, chopped 1 large dessert apple, peeled and chopped 3 tbsp apple juice 2 tbsp water Few drops of vanilla extract 1 large ripe pear, peeled and chopped METHOD

• Put the apricots and apple into a saucepan with the apple juice, water and vanilla.

• Bring to the boil, then cover and simmer for 4 minutes.

• Add the pear and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

• Purée using an electric hand blender.

CHICKEN AND APPLE BALLS SUITABLE FROM 9-12 MONTHS • MAKES 20 BALLS INGRE DIE NTS

250g chicken breast, cut into chunks 250g boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated 1 onion, finely chopped 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme or sage, or a pinch of mixed dried herbs 1 egg yolk 1 low-salt chicken stock cube, crumbled (for babies over 1 year only) 50g fresh white breadcrumbs Salt and freshly ground pepper (for babies over 1 year only) Plain flour for coating Vegetable oil for frying METHOD

• Put the chicken into a food processor and pulse for a few seconds.

• Using your hands, squeeze out the excess liquid from the grated apple.

• Mix the apple with the chicken, onion, herbs, egg yolk, stock cube (if using) and breadcrumbs and roughly chop in a food processor for a few seconds.

• Season with a little salt and pepper (if using).

• With your hands, form into 20 balls, roll in flour and shallow fry in oil for 5 minutes, until lightly golden and cooked through.

• Can be served hot or cold.

126 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Top finger food for summer picnics

FOOD

Facing food WE ANING OF TEN CONJU R E S U P A FE AST OF EMOTION S. Organix LOOKS INTO BABY ’S FACIAL E XPR E SSION S WH EN TRYING N EW FL AVOU R S

picture paints a thousand words.

And that’s the same for our babies’ faces. As new parents we become obsessed with every little expression our child pulls. And it’s no different when they reach the weaning stage.

A survey commissioned by leading baby food brand Organix, reveals that one of the biggest barriers when introducing foods during weaning is baby’s facial expressions in response to new tastes. The weaning process can be a challenging one, and new foods will inspire a mix of expressions.

The faces babies pull can be interpreted as disgust or dislike, which can make giving them new foods all the harder. But that scrunchedup nose or pursed lip doesn’t necessarily mean your baby doesn’t like what they’re trying, according to Vivien Sabel, clinical

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eye, brow, mouth, lip and tongue movements say about new tastes, too.”

From sweet carrots to sour lemons and bitter broccoli, weaning is the first opportunity for your baby to explore and experience taste sensations. Evidence shows that it can take between 10 and 15 times to introduce a new food or flavour, and that learning about food is all about familiarity and repetition, so it’s no surprise that 42% of parents are saying they find it difficult to get their babies to try new foods during weaning.

But by understanding more about their babies’ facial expressions, parents are likely to feel more confident about introducing new foods.

“What might be interpreted as a look of shock or disgust, doesn’t necessarily translate as not liking the taste. What’s more likely is that baby is puzzled by the intensity of a

A LOOK OF SHOCK OR DISGUST DOESN’T NECESSARILY TRANSLATE AS NOT LIKING THE TASTE psychotherapist and body language expert.

With more than half of mums revealing that their baby’s facial expression puts them off trying to encourage them to like a new texture or flavour, Organix has commissioned Vivien to help parents understand their little one’s facial expressions.

Vivien says, “Just as we learn to interpret our baby’s signals when they’re sleepy, hungry, happy or windy, we can also read what those

128 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

new flavour,” explains Vivien. “A surprised expression could be curiosity about the depth of flavour. The chances are, they think the flavour is good but it’s very different to what they’ve eaten before – it’s all part of them experiencing and learning new tastes on their weaning journey.”

To encourage your baby’s curiosity, check out Organix weaning foods at organix.com

UNDERSTANDING YOUR BABY’S EXPRESSIONS Advice from Vivien Sabel, clinical psychotherapist and body language expert • Your baby has a curious mind and understanding their non-verbal cues can support you both throughout the weaning process.

• Look out for all of your baby’s non-verbal expressions – observe their expression and mirror it back to your baby as a way of saying you understand.

• Remember, babies do what babies see! They are like sponges and will soak up everything you do. So when it comes to encouraging your baby to try new foods, your expression needs to be seen and needs to be encouraging – if you look like you’re enjoying the food, your baby is likely to copy you.

• The more time you spend observing your baby during mealtimes, the more you will understand what they are communicating.

HAPPY

CURIOUS

FOOD Your baby is born with an innate need to explore

DISINTERESTED

THE SNUB

SHOCKED

SURPRISED

Babies mouths are sensitive, and this may just be a reaction to a mind-boggling new taste

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 129

London_Baby_210316.pdf

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Our timeless, elegant little shop has been London’s well kept secret for over 31 years. From our exclusive fabrics to create your nursery, butter-soft cashmere to keep your baby snug and our well loved Moses baskets that make the perfect first bed for your little one.

Visit our website www.nurserywindow.co.uk or pop in and visit us in store!

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Hand-picked family holidays that are perfect for children and their parents too!

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SANDALS STEPS INTO LONDON The first overseas hotel brand to have a stand-alone high street outlet in the UK, Sandals Resorts has opened its first retail experience in the heart of London.

The new interactive store includes a dedicated Family Zone, and while parents book their dream getaway, little ones can enjoy the toys, books and games consoles.

135 Fulham Road. sandals.co.uk

STAY COOL

travel

elf, like a holiday in its Visiting Sandals is joy en to es nc rie pe with interactive ex

NEWS

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

ARABIAN NIGHTS Top to bottom: Sunnylife baby inflatable flamingo, £24, roosbeach.com.

Swim jacket, £24.99, konfidence.co.uk. ‘Dinky Divers’ diving aids, £9.99, swimfin.co.uk.

Tucked away in the medina of Marrakech, the luxurious Riad Farnatchi is a dreamy desination for a Moroccan babymoon. The boutique hotel features a courtyard complete with swimming pool, and a rooftop terrace boasting views of the Atlas Mountains. Make the most of your downtime with a hammam at the new spa, while autumn sees the opening of Le Trou Au Mur, a restaurant celebrating Moroccan delicacies. riadfarnatchi.com

The lightweight travel-cot mattress from Naturalmat helps baby sleep comfortably in any climate. Made from organic lamb’s wool and cotton, the mat rolls up compactly inside a duffle bag for easy storage, while essential oils offer constant protection from dust mites. £68, naturalmat.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 131

TRAVEL

born

wi

Emma Jordan GEARS UP TO INTRODUCE HER TODDLER TO THE AFRICAN BUSH, AND TAKES HER OWN MOTHER ALONG FOR BACK-UP 132 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

TO BE

TRAVEL

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babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 133

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TRAVEL View more than 40 species of game on foot, truck or horseback

Making mem

ories: Emm a, Charlotte and her mot her

“

ebbies!” shouts Charlotte as we turn a dusty corner. We’ve been on the back of a game-viewing truck for over an hour and the rocking from the rutted road, combined with a whole day of travel and the baking heat has taken its toll on my two year old. She’s tired. And grumpy.

And generally the novelty of ‘going to see the animals’ has long worn off.

We’re three hours north of Johannesburg in the Waterberg region of South Africa and taking a girls’ holiday. I’m a single mum and I’ve invited my mother to join us, so we’re travelling as a threesome, ‘making memories’, as my friend Kate would say.

We all know, as useful as mothers can be, they can also be a nightmare. Especially on holiday when it’s likely your accommodation is smaller than at home and a different routine is disruptive. It’s lucky, then, that we’ve chosen a reserve that is entirely flexible – and spacious.

Ant’s Hill is luxurious, but not precious. All the specs are high – the linens are fine, the beds large and the service impeccable. And it really excels at its home-from-home approach – anything is possible at any time.

We have our own cottage with two double bedrooms, one with a spectacular outdoor bath and the other

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Spot everything from rhino to buffalo at Ant’s Hill

with an equally impressive outdoor shower.

There’s a private plunge pool with kikoycovered day beds and a deep, shaded terrace perfect for afternoon massages. It’s beautiful, but comfortable enough that I don’t have to spend my time worrying about sticky fingers and dirty feet. An analogy for the entire Ant’s experience – things are fine, but easy.

It’s Charlotte’s first safari and I’m clearly more excited than her. She’s been animated about going on the aeroplane, and has enjoyed seeing Granny, but I feel she would

Little ones have the opportunity to play, swim and track animals

actually rather be back home, in her bed, in her routine. As many times we’ve practiced animal noises and talked about their habits, actually being with them is still an abstract.

It’s also hot and there’s a lot going on.

As we’re out of season, there are only eight other guests, ranging in age from 30 to 70 and they’re all here for one thing: to ride horses.

Ant’s offers South Africa’s best riding safaris.

It has almost 50 horses and can accommodate all skill levels. There are no lions or elephants in the 45-hectare reserve, but plenty of buck, warthogs, kudu, eland, buffalo, zebra, giraffes and rhino that hide in the shade and drink thirstily from the waterholes. On the back of a horse, man’s scent is masked, allowing riders

TRAVEL For the duration of their holiday, the family had a whole new routine

Children w ill be in thei r element a they experi s ence their fi rst bu sh ride

136 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

IT’S BEAUTIFUL BUT COMFORTABLE – I DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT STICKY FINGERS OR DIRTY FEET astride the pony, riding through the bush.

Unfortunately the ‘zebbies’ and ‘piraffes’ have moved on. But we find them on our way back when we’re in the truck. Dan explains that giraffes’ tongues are 45cm long and are tough enough to wrap around thorny branches, stripping the tasty leaves. Charlotte is fascinated and forever now her favourite animal is the ‘piraffe’. During our trip she also gets to go on bug walks, follow spoor, play with chameleons and swim in a pool just 10 metres from a crash of rhino.

As with most holidays, as soon as you really get into it, it’s time to return home. I would, however, happily go back to Ant’s year after year – but probably in the school holidays when it’s filled with kids of a similar age. It would allow us all a chance to grow with the experience. As it is, I hope we have made a few first memories. waterberg.net

The thatched lodges exude African charm

PHOTOGRAPHY: NMOOREPHOTO.NET.2007

to really get up close and personal with these wild creatures in their natural habitat.

After day one, I realise I need to take charge, Charlotte is definitely feeling strained. I need to create some bush boundaries. I let my mother know we can’t do everything and be extra gentle with my child. I, too, have to let go of holiday expectations.

I’ve tried the babysitter – Charlotte’s not keen, so I’ve set up our own safari routine.

We all go to breakfast, then I go riding, leaving Granny and her granddaughter to swim, play on the trampoline and ride the push bikes. I return for lunch, which I take in our cottage with Charlotte, while Granny joins the adults under the trees for bush barbecues. This is followed by nap time – for all three of us.

Then it’s time for another activity – a bush drive, bush walk or the best for little Charlotte, her first bush ride.

Jiggy is Ant’s resident pony. He’s piebald and everything a bush pony should be – incredibly docile and extremely friendly. Dan, our guide – who has been with Ant’s for more than 15 years – merely has to walk in front of Jiggy for him to gently keep in step.

We passed giraffe and zebras grazing on our way to the stables, so Dan suggests we go find them with Jiggy. Out of the gate we plod, Charlotte and Jiggy in the lead as we pass warthogs, kudu and antelope. She’s in her element. I have to remind myself she’s only two years old as I see her sitting proudly

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Baby and toddler friendly holidays on the Cornish coast …a welcoming family-friendly retreat and a very stylish one at that.

ST. JOHN’S WOOD

PRE - PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Over 30 Years of Happiness & Success in Education

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education

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

NEWS

EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM

BABY TALK

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 just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

Since a recent report by Save The Children, which claimed all nurseries should have qualified Early Years teachers, Busy Bees’ fully trained childcare practitioners have created Babble to Chatter, a programme designed to encourage language development and communication skills in little ones – essential for when they start school. Book a free session, and find out how to get involved at home. busybeeschildcare.co.uk

CLEVER CUTLERY Ease the transition from baby-led weaning to selffeeding with Doddl cutlery. The clever new product, with its ergonomically designed handles, has been created alongside child development specialists. The pincer grip needed to control the utensil is the same used when learning to write – who knew cutlery could be so clever! £20, doddl.com

GUMMY SMILES Wrigley’s Extra has released a book as part of its Smile Back project. The Lost Smile informs children about the importance of smiling, and how to protect your child’s teeth. Profits will go towards Action For Children and the creation of oral health workshops across the UK. smileback.wrigley.co.uk

The clever cutlery is available for little ones from 12 months

L’ECOLE INTERNATIONALE FRANCO-ANGLAISE IN MARYLEBONE IS SET TO BECOME LONDON’S FIRST ALL-THROUGH BILINGUAL SCHOOL. FROM 29 AUGUST, CHILDREN CAN BEGIN NURSERY AT 18 MONTHS AND POTENTIALLY STAY ON AT THE SCHOOL UNTIL THE AGE OF 18. ECOLE-IFA.COM

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 139

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 that every girl achieves her full potential?

From day one, we recognise that the partnership between home and school lies as 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 stretch and challenge them.

Specialist teachers in PE, ICT and Music enhance the work of

140 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

NAOMI BARTHOLOMEW St Catherine’s, Bramley

We talk to the head of the preparatory girls’ school based in Surrey the form tutors and the girls are taught by exceptional teachers, in superb surroundings. We also make time to pause and reflect during a busy week. Assemblies, form times and tutor group activities provide this chance to pause. Weekly chapel services also play a key role in the girls’ education here.

What kind of feedback have you received from parents and pupils?

One of the comments that particularly stuck with me from a parent at a recent 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. The words, ‘Let us go on’ from his address have been adopted as the school motto.

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, new buildings and the school’s centenary celebrations followed. The Anniversary Halls, which house a large gymnasium and sports hall, along with an outstanding 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, she links the school’s present to its past.

How do you see St Catherine’s progressing in the future?

St Catherine’s is a forwardthinking and dynamic school.

My commitment is to continue to promote an education befitting of the strong traditions of the past and to build on our present success. We aim to ensure that the girls continue to love their time at school, flourish in their senior school and their life beyond. We are proud of what has been achieved and optimistic and excited about the future. stcatherines.info @stcatsbramley

Hawkesdown House School

For boys aged 3 to 8 years Queen’s Gate School offers girls a friendly, supportive environment where individuality is nurtured, academic standards are high and a broad-based curriculum ensures a well-rounded education.

For a prospectus or to make a private visit to the School, please contact the Registrar: 020 7594 4982 · registrar@queensgate.org.uk

Endeavour Courage Truth

I N D E P E N D E N T D AY S C H O O L FOR GIRL S AGED 4 TO 18 133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE · queensgate.org.uk

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

Day, full & weekly boarding | GSA School 900 girls 4-18 years | Founded 1885

ST CATHERINE’S PREP, BRAMLEY

OPEN MORNINGS babylondon01 May 2016.indd 1

Bramley, Surrey GU5 0DF StCatherine’s 01483 899665 prepadmissions@stcatherines.info Bramley www.stcatherinines.info

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EDUCATION

Curtain call

Rhiane Kirkby AN D H ER TODDLER E XPLOR E AN IMAGINARY WOR LD IN TH E ATRICAL CL ASSE S, SU R E TO BE HAR BOU RING H OLLY WOOD’S N E X T SU PER STAR S

here’s music, singing, rhythm and rhymes, but this is no ordinary music class. Hartbeeps is, in fact, the complete antithesis of the sit-in-a-circleand-clap-your-hands-to-the-beat type of baby class. “It’s a mini production, a magical and memorable theatrical experience where children and their parents are encouraged to play,” explains founder Sarah Godwin.

“Ordinary spaces are transformed into tactile wonderlands with clever use of lighting, props, puppets and sound effects.” But for Sarah that is where the connection with the theatre ends. “This isn’t a performance and there aren’t any show tunes, it’s a creative and inspiring interactive experience.”

Adults are invited to leave the ‘real world’ at the door and enter into the theme of the day by playing alongside their little ones.

From teddy bears’ picnics to treks through the jungle and trips into space, there’s a whole host of new adventures to be had, each one set to a musical soundtrack. The words ‘adult participation’ may have some parents running for the door, but even the most reluctant join in. Many admit they never would have imagined themselves waddling round a room with a bright yellow shower cap on their head

T

Hartbeeps transforms ordinary spaces into a tactile wonderland for curious babies

142 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

lar e most popu ell is one of th es bi ba d Kimmy New an s ers with mum session lead

and washing-up gloves on their feet, singing Five Little Ducks, but say they find it easy to immerse themselves into what’s going on.

“Such a break from the norm – the highlight of my week,” comments one mum, while another admits, “I could almost turn up in my pyjamas, I feel so relaxed!”

Adults may have a part to play but there’s no mistaking the fact that the children are, in Sarah’s eyes, “the beating heart of Hartbeeps.”

Years of scientific study have gone into each class to ensure there’s a developmental purpose, from bonding and nurturing to socialising and interacting, and for Sarah it’s crucial children are given the freedom to express themselves and explore and play

in their own way. A musician by trade, she came up with the idea for Hartbeeps during a music session for adults with learning disabilities. She noticed the difference adding props and multisensory objects made and thought it would translate well into a class for babies and toddlers. And translate well it did – from humble beginnings in a youth club in Watford, Hartbeeps has grown into a multinational operation which is still expanding.

The session leaders, or ‘imaginators’ as Sarah prefers them to be known, have a big part to play and it’s fair to say that Kimberley Newell is one of West London’s most popular. “The energy and fun Kimmy brings to Hartbeeps is unlike any other class we do, I can’t recommend it highly enough,” says one mum.

For Kimmy, who has been leading sessions for five years and has recently been nominated for a national award, the feeling is mutual.

“It’s pure, pure joy. I feel very honoured to be part of a special time in people’s lives.”

With a degree in Performing Arts, she feels music and drama are key to early stage development, enabling children to experience things they may otherwise miss out on. She talks of children who’ve never been near animals falling in love with her cat puppets,

EDUCATION

Hartbeeps believes in giving children the freedom to explore and play in their own way

PHOTOGRAPHY: ANA BARREIRA

Props and multisensory objects add to the joyful experience

and of a little boy who was so taken with the doll he was looking after at the toy ‘hospital’, his grandma vowed to buy him one on the way home. “Children get so much out of the Hartbeeps experience,” says Kimmy. “It’s really wonderful to see the shyest come out of their shells, and the more boisterous learn how to interact and play.”

If, however, glitz, glamour and razzle dazzle are more your thing then look no further than Baby Broadway – a new addition to London’s baby class market. Here you can sit with your little one and immerse yourself in the sounds of the musicals, and while audience participation is encouraged, it’s by no means a necessity. Top West End performers are on hand to deliver an uplifting programme of show tunes carefully put together by Anna Unwin, Baby Broadway’s creator. Anna came up with the idea while on maternity leave after realising that “no one was doing musicals.”

Having worked in the West End for more

CHILDREN OFTEN LEARN HOW TO SING WORDS BEFORE THEY CAN SAY THEM than six years, she knew she’d be appealing to mothers, with two thirds of visitors to London’s shows being women, most aged between 25 and 34.

Anna’s background in music also taught her that as well as attracting tired parents looking for a little escapism, her concerts would be hugely beneficial to babies and toddlers. “It’s scientifically proven that the first three years of life change the formation of the brain”, she explains. “Clapping and tapping both develop fine motor skills and the expression in music helps develop emotional intelligence.”

Music also helps language development,

as children often learn how to sing words before they can say them. Anna’s key aim, however, is enjoyment. She wants to create an atmosphere that “excites and delights both parent and child” and it seems on that note she’s already succeeding, with regular standing ovations from audiences: “Went home on a total endorphin-high”; “Literally had the best time”; “Really put a spring in my step.”

With critical acclaim like this, expect Baby Broadway to be treading the boards for quite some time yet. hartbeeps.com, babybroadway.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 143

Cuddle Mates® help little kids sleep better.

Little kids simply love wrapping both their arms & legs around a Cuddle Mate for the most comfortable night’s sleep. Help your child wake up happy, full of energy and ready to have fun!

Visit cuddlemates.co.uk now!

cuddlemates.co.uk

Tips for teaching your child to swim…

CuddleMates_PressAd-129x99mm_FA2.indd 1

23/05/2016 1:55 pm

for every mini shark adventure!

Children love to swim and generally as a rule the earlier you get them into the water the better.

When teaching your child in the water make sure your eye level is the same as your child's and always maintain a smile – kids pick up on negativity so remember to reinforce the positive and never use negative comments. Lavish your child with praise in the water and you will see their confidence grow immensely.

A fun way to teach children to breath properly in the water is to use phrases like “talk to the fish” by blowing bubbles in the water, or “listen to the fish” by turning the head with an ear in the water and breathing in. If your child really doesn’t want to get into the water then don’t force them – play it down and suggest they sit on the side with their feet over the edge so they can kick and splash the water instead. Just sitting will increase their confidence – not every child wants to jump straight in!

SwimFin aims to provide and encourage a fun learning experience for children and family members of all ages and abilities without being restrictive. Most importantly ensure your child is safe at all times – whether it be during a lesson, for recreational use at the weekend or on your summer holidays in a pool or down at the beach!

For more information or to buy please visit

www.swimfin.co.uk 144 | JULY/AUGUST 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

RRP

£21.99

OUT AND ABOUT

mini

AGENDA

Lianne Kolirin ROU N DS U P TH E CAPITAL’S BE ST EVENTS Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival NOTTING HILL London W10, W11. thelondonnottinghill carnival.com Notting Hill Carnival is the largest street festival in Europe.

Sunday is traditionally family day – expect to enjoy steel bands, decorative floats, masquerades and plenty of loud music and Caribbean food to sample along the way.

Admission: Free.

Sunday 28 and Monday 29 August. Sunday is children’s day and Monday is adults’ day.

Bands take to the streets from around 9am.

Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall

Hampstead Heath Summer Fair

Kick & Play Summer Mini Season

LONDON WONDERGROUND Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 0844 875 0073 londonwonderground.co.uk

LOWER FAIRGROUND SITE East Heath Road, London NW3 cityoflondon.gov.uk/ hampsteadheath

JW3 341-351 Finchley Road, London NW3 6ET 020 7433 8988 jw3.org.uk

The traditional and historic Hampstead Heath Summer Fair, which has been returning to this leafy part of north London for centuries, is back for the bank holiday weekend. There will be thrills, spills and sugary treats for kids and adults alike.

Admission: Free, ride and activity charges apply.

Saturday 27 to Monday 29 August, from 12pm daily.

Join experienced instructors and their puppet friends, Mimi and Pepe, as they take you and your little one through a world of physical activity. Individual attention and engaging music help develop pre-soccer and movement skills that will have your toddler learning to balance, run, kick and play.

Admission: £10 per child.

Sunday 31 July, 2.30pm.

This dance party is hosted by Australian DJ and mum-of-two Monski Mouse, who spins an eclectic selection of retro hits and nursery rhymes. A superfun session for you and baby.

Admission: £8 each.

Various Sundays throughout July and August, 3pm. See website for details.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 145

Something Happening For Kids Festival 2016

Frozen Worlds

Walthamstow Garden Party

Walthamstow Garden Party LLOYD PARK Forest Road, Walthamstow, London E17 5JW walthamstowgarden party.com This popular festival is back for a third year and also features a Mini Garden Party for babies and young children. There are feeding and changing facilities readily available, as well as a soft-play area and lots of family-friendly activities.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 July.

BeachEast QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK Stratford, London E20 2AD beacheast.co.uk One thousand tons of sand on Stratford Waterfront, near the Olympic Stadium, make BeachEast Britain’s answer to Copacabana this summer.

Besides the sandy seaside vibes, there will also be a paddling pool, funfair rides, bars and sporting activities for all ages.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 23 July to Sunday 4 September, from 10am daily.

146 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Summer Spectacular WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM Coursers Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 willowsactivityfarm.com With a huge programme of events, there’s lots to keep the kids entertained. Discover musical instruments in the Jeremy Fisher Music Pond, explore the Lily Bobtail Nature Discovery Area and hide out from Mr McGregor in the Secret Treehouse.

Admission: Adults, £18.50; children, £19.50; under-twos go free.

Saturday 23 July to Sunday 4 September.

Chester Tuffnut POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com Join Chester the tree mole and his brave friends for an action-packed tale of nearmisses and great escapes.

Admission: £12 each.

Wednesday 22 June to Sunday 14 August. Performance times vary, see website for details.

Summer Spectacular, Willows Activity Farm

Something Happening For Kids Festival 2016 THE PLACE 17 Duke’s Road, London WC1H 9PY 020 7121 1100 theplace.org.uk Enjoy a day of activities as The Place gets taken over by an explosion of dance in all its forms. There are shows, plus workshops for all ages, such as family yoga and street dance.

Admission: Free, some activity prices vary, see website.

Saturday 16 July.

Family Saturday, RHS Hampton Court Flower Show HAMPTON COURT PALACE Surrey KT8 9AU 020 3176 5850 rhs.org.uk The world’s largest flower show returns and there’s a special day dedicated to families. There are lots of rocket science themed activities planned, including a family trail, storytelling and children’s cookery classes.

Admission: Prices vary, see website for details.

Saturday 9 July, 10am to 7.30pm.

Frozen Worlds SEA LIFE LONDON AQUARIUM Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB visitsealife.com/london The new Antarctic-themed experience gives an insight into the habitat of the resident Gentoo penguins and explains how we can all play our part in conserving their environment.

Admission: Adults, from £24.50; children, from £18.10; underthrees go free.

Daily from 10am.

Picnics In The Park DUKES LONDON St James’s Place, London SW1A 1NY 020 7491 4840 dukeshotel.com Five-star Dukes Hotel is offering families the chance to enjoy a gourmet picnic – complete with private butler. The hampers, which include a range of mouth-watering treats, are served in Green Park, just a short walk from the hotel.

Admission: Traditional British Picnic, from £35 per person; Children’s picnic, £12 per child.

Until Friday 30 September.

OUT AND ABOUT

Super Saturday of Sport Minions At The Hard Rock Cafe

Summer Festival, V&A Museum of Childhood

Summer Festival

Super Saturday of Sport

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA museumofchildhood.org.uk

TURNHAM GREEN Chiswick High Road, London W4 5DT supersaturdayofsport.co.uk

Summer in the city just isn’t the same without a visit to the museum’s Summer Festival.

Join an afternoon of live music, dance, walkabout acts, food, designer stalls, henna, facepainting, games and crafts.

Admission: Free.

Sunday 24 July, 11.30am to 4.30pm.

Hello Kitty Afternoon Tea

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHRIS NASH, ISTOCK

CUTTER & SQUIDGE 20 Brewer Street, London W1F 0SJ 020 7734 2540 cutterandsquidge.com Get in quick to book a table for the Hello Kitty pop-up café, open this summer only. The Hello Kitty Secret Garden will feature inside this Soho eaterie and will offer afternoon tea with oh-so cute goodies.

Admission: Adults, £40; under-eights, £20.

Until Wednesday 31 August, bookings being taken now.

Children as young as two are invited to come along to this wonderful event to have a go at more than 40 different sport activities. Expect everything from football and cricket to skateboarding and American football – plus, a sizzling barbecue to enjoy!

Admission: Free.

Saturday 16 July, 11am to 4pm.

Lambeth Country Show BROCKWELL PARK Brixton, London SE24 0NG 020 7926 7085 lambethcountryshow.co.uk Now in its 42nd year, the Lambeth Country Show has all the attractions of a traditional country fair with an urban South London vibe. 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 16 and Sunday 17 July, 12pm to 8pm.

CBeebies Proms

Minions At The Hard Rock Cafe HARD ROCK CAFE 148 Old Park Lane, London W1K 1QY 020 7514 1700 hardrock.com Hard Rock Cafe London is set to extend its cinema screenings with a new series of interactive children’s experiences – one of which will be Minions. Meet the characters from the film and tuck into a delicious breakfast.

Admission: Adults, £12; children, £5.50. Breakfast charges apply.

Saturday 23 July, 9am to 11.30am.

Little Creatures Family Festival ZSL LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo Bring your own little creatures to the zoo for a weekend of entertainers, storytelling, puppetry and more. Also enjoy animal talks, feeds and crafts.

Don’t forget to bring a picnic!

Admission: Adults, from £24.25; children, from £17.60; underthrees go free.

Friday 29 to Sunday 31 July.

CBeebies Proms ROYAL ALBERT HALL Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP royalalberthall.com Join the BBC Concert Orchestra and some of CBeebies’ best-loved presenters and characters in two proms for under-fives and families. You’ll be taken on a journey through time and space, from dinosaur adventures to swashbuckling treasurehunts and stargazing.

Admission: Standing, £6 each; seated tickets, from £7.50.

Sunday 28 and Monday 29 August. Doors open at 10.15am.

Make A Splash SOMERSET HOUSE Strand, London WC2R 1LA 020 7845 4600 somersethouse.org.uk If the weather gets sticky this summer, take the little ones to cool off in the magnificent setting of Somerset House. Kids are free to run between the fountains, just don’t forget to bring a towel and dry clothes!

Admission: Free.

Fountains are on daily, 10am to 11pm, except when events take place in the courtyard.

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 147

OUT AND ABOUT

ONE YEAR FOR JUST £16

Greenwich + Docklands International Festival

VENUES ACROSS LONDON 020 8305 1818 festival.org With plenty for families, GDIF 2016 brings together awesome night-time spectaculars with street theatre, art installations and dance, coming together to show Royal Greenwich and East London at its most creative.

Admission: Free.

Friday 24 June to Saturday 2 July. Event times vary.

The Fantastic World Of Dr Seuss DISCOVER CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE 383-387 High Street, Stratford, London E15 4QZ 020 8536 5555 discover.org.uk The first exhibition in the newly refurbished Discover Story Centre brings to life the world of Dr. Seuss. Step inside this vivid showcase for kids aged up to seven, inspired by the cool illustrations and funny stories.

Admission: £6.50 each; under-twos go free.

Opens Saturday 23 July and runs until May 2017.

148 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Ugly Bug Safari

Little London guides you through the next stage of the adventure that is childhood – from nursery, first trips away from home and the most exciting activities and events in and around the capital, to the hottest holidays, coolest kidswear and interiors ideas. PLUS expert advice on your child’s health and education.

ELTHAM PALACE & GARDENS Eltham, Greenwich, London SE9 5QE 020 8294 2548 english-heritage.org.uk

SPECIAL OFFER

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Grab a magnifying glass and join the big hunt for mini beasts.

Peer into the parterre, unearth insects near the stable block and encounter bugs near the laundry room. Plus, create your own mini beasts to take home.

Admission: Adults, £15; children, £9; under-fives go free.

Monday 8 to Wednesday 10 August, 11am to 5pm.

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WALTHAM ABBEY GARDENS Abbey View, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1XQ 03000 030 610 visitleevalley.org.uk This will certainly keep little ones occupied on a day out at Waltham Abbey Gardens. Free activities include pond dipping, a mini beasts trail, face-painting and the chance to encounter bees, bats and birds.

Admission: Free.

Tuesday 2 August, 10am to 3.30pm.

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Glow Gorgeous with Little Butterfly London Little Butterfly London, the award winning infant skincare label, has welcomed a new arrival - a luxury skincare collection just for mothers.

Uniquely formulated for pre and postnatal skin, the range boasts precious ingredients to nourish, treat and repair even the most sensitive of skin.

CHELSEA, BELGRAVIA, GLOUCESTER ROAD, PIMLICO E: chelsea.westminster@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8767 9827 PUTNEY, BARNES, FULHAM E: putneybarnesfulham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8480 6064

From stretchmark butters to toning body serums, the new results-focused range is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding and guarantees to get you glowing. www.littlebutterflylondon.com

MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, HAMPSTEAD, KENSINGTON, NOTTING HILL E: hampstead.nottinghill@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8438 0189

ww Follow our sculpture trails zanyzebras.org.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JULY/AUGUST 2016 149

A SELEC TION OF

LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

Groups & Classes

ACTIVITIES

150 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

THE LITTLE THINGS MAKE A DIFFERENCE Classes across London Unfortunately, it only takes a split second for accidents to happen and knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make all the difference. A short course in first aid can make you feel more confident to manage life’s little emergencies.

Little Aid specialises in practical first aid courses in the comfort of your home. Courses can be held at any time, including evenings and weekends. The most popular course is the three-hour Child & Baby First Aid Class which covers CPR, choking and the recovery position, along with serious illness. Little Aid also offers a shorter CPR & Choking course. info@littleaid.co.uk littleaid.co.uk

FOR LITTLE LEARNERS From babies to 11 years 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 Holiday Workshops throughout the summer.

0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com

Club Petit Pierrot 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 from 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 admincpp@btconnect.com clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

ACTIVITIES

PRIVATE, BESPOKE ANTENATAL CLASSES

COULD YOU HELP A CHOKING CHILD?

AWARD-WINNING AND INTERACTIVE CLASSES

Classes across London Pregnancy is both an exciting and anxious period for every couple embarking on this journey. To help relieve the anxiety, Eileithyia Ltd has the class for you. Eileithyia is a midwife-led company offering women and their partners one-to-one antenatal classes in the comfort of their own home. There is a range of personalised and interactive classes from early pregnancy through to labour and birth, and finally caring for your newborn. Also available is private breastfeeding support and assistance in the first few days after labour to enable you to feel confident right from the beginning. eileithyia.info@gmail.com eileithyia.co.uk

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, hand-on 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

LEARN TO SWIM

NURTURE A LIFETIME OF MUSIC

Gymboree’s commitment to quality is unsurpassed, and every day thousands of parents and carers across the UK choose Gymboree 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 30 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’s tried-and-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 be the artists. 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 suitable for newborns onwards, and feature physical stimulation from a varied mix of props. Little ones become attentive and interested in their growing understanding of the world with songs, tactile play, physical games and more.

Free trial classes are available at Bayswater and Notting Hill, Bromley, Chiswick, Clapham, Docklands, Ealing, East Dulwich, Hampstead, Harrow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Putney, Wandsworth and Wimbledon. gymboree-uk.com

Chelsea, Knightsbridge, South Kensington Swimming Rocks has established itself as London’s most exclusive swim school with a reputation for exceptional service. Its dedicated teaching team are well known for their outstanding knowledge.

Providing swimming lessons in luxury locations, courses are available for babies, children and adults either on a private or shared basis, or in a small group for babies and toddlers. And Swimming Rocks’ creative teaching pathway will ensure every child develops their individual swimming style. Lessons are available every day during term time as well as intensive crash courses in the holidays.

07557 051 904 info@swimmingrocks.co.uk swimmingrocks.co.uk

Classes across London Monkey Music offers award-winning music classes for children aged three months to four years. The company has 20 years’ experience of providing classes that captivate children and adults with a combination of songs, activities, instruments and props.

Monkey Music’s progressive curriculum encourages children to grow in confidence, improve listening, communication and concentration skills, and make new friends. Classes are offered in Putney, Barnes, Parsons Green, Fulham, Chelsea, Gloucester Road, Belgravia, Kensington, Notting Hill, Primrose Hill and Hampstead.

Visit the website for a timetable and to book your complimentary session. monkeymusic.com

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 151

COMPETITIONS

CHANCE TO WIN

Exclusive competitions and offers for Baby London readers WORTH £465

WIN A MELOTOTE WITH METANIUM

STROLL IN STYLE WITH BRITAX

Nappy rash treatment brand Metanium is giving away three fabulous Melobaby tote bags (RRP £70), alongside a Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion. The stylish and practical Melotote has space for everything you need when out and about.

Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to prevent nappy rash, and is ideal to keep in your changing bag. Two sprays are enough to form a thin, protective layer. Pat around the area to maximise coverage for ultimate protection – no need to rub in. metanium.co.uk

As the sun starts to appear, what better way to enjoy the weather than strolling outdoors with your little one? Exclusively for Baby London readers, we have a Britax Affinity 2 travel system, worth £465, to give away! Available in six colours, it’s been designed to perform on both city and countryside terrain, and with front and back suspension, parents and baby will enjoy a super-smooth ride. britax.co.uk

WORTH £169

WIN £100 VOUCHER FOR SNUGLO If you’re on the hunt for cool baby gear, look no further than British company Snuglo. From chic baby grows to witty dummies, babies and toddlers can rock an on-trend look from day to night.

Designed and lovingly crafted in Britain, the cheeky slogans will make everyone smile, and what’s more, you could be in with a chance to win a voucher for £100 to spend online. snuglo.com

SLEEP EASY THIS SUMMER WITH SNÜZPOD As the warmer weather draws near, the soft and stylish tones of the comfortable new SnüzPods are sure to be a huge hit. With the launch of Putty, Blush and Sherbet to the collection, there’s a shade to suite every style. To celebrate the new colourways, Baby London will be giving one away, worth £169! snuz.co.uk

ENTER ONLINE AT BABYLONDON.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS 152 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Bébégrow

First Aid for parents

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..confidence for life's little emergencies

• Antenatal Contact • Sleep management

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off group classes*

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Quote BYL81 when booking your class

The Little London Music School The Little London Music School Introducing your child to the joytoof Introducing your child themusic joy of music

Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based *10% offer not valid for couples classes. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

This voucher is valid until 31st August 2016.

info@littlehouseofscience.com info@littlehouseofscience.com

Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK

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classes for curious minds

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SOUTHKENSI NGTON babylondon.co.uk | JULY/AUGUST 2016 153

60-105 cm <18 kg

NEW from Scandinavia the BeSafe iZi Modular car seat system.

Suitable from newborn to approx 4 years you only need to buy one base for both seats. BeSafe iZi Modular also meets the latest i-Size Standards, can be used rearward or forward facing and uniquely can be extended to increase the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leg room as they grow!

See www.carseat.co.uk for Retailers.

For more information contact BeSafe UK/Ireland on: sales@hts.no www.facebook.com/besafe.united

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

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 155

MARIE-CHANTAL

Founded by HRH Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, this beautiful childrenswear collection is made from the most luxurious fabrics, including cotton and cashmere. In the boutiques you’ll find traditional-meets-contemporary pieces for girls, boys and babies from newborn up to 12 years old. The children’s 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

ILOVEGORGEOUS

Designing exclusively for little girls aged from newborn to 13 years, ilovegorgeous 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. More recently, ilovegorgeous opened its second boutique in Primrose Hill.

52 LEDBURY ROAD, LONDON W11 2AJ 73 REGENT’S PARK ROAD, LONDON NW1 8UY ilovegorgeous.co.uk

NURSERY WINDOW

Nestled in Chelsea’s Walton Street, Nursery Window is home to top quality baby products, featuring exclusive fabric designs and handmade pieces. From moses baskets to nappy stackers, solid oak furnishings to knitted pram suits, the range of classic designs will charm and inspire.

Nursery Window’s baby gift baskets are also a popular choice, featuring a personalised selection of toys, clothing and accessories for new or expectant parents.

83 WALTON STREET, LONDON SW3 2HP nurserywindow.co.uk

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

RACHEL RILEY

Rachel Riley’s traditionally-inspired pieces for girls, boys, infants and mamas are beautifully crafted and feature hand-embroidery and vintage prints. And we’re spoilt in London, with two charming Rachel Riley 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

LITTLE BEVAN

Little Bevan creates beautiful bespoke occasionwear and accessories for little ones, perfect for weddings and special events. With charming collections for children of all ages, as well as shoes from Scarlet Ribbon Merino and Rainbow Club, all the brand’s pieces are designed and made in London. Just a stone’s throw from Pimlico station, this boutique offers a relaxing environment in which to shop, with an array of toys to keep the children occupied.

53 MORETON STREET, LONDON SW1V 2NY littlebevan.co.uk

156 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOPPING

JOUJOU & LUCY

After naming their children’s boutique after their son and his imaginary friend, Lucy, the founders of JouJou & Lucy continually look to source exclusive baby brands and new designers who echo their quest for originality. A firm favourite of celebrity parents, the boutique’s collections celebrate the best in European individuality with bespoke French knitwear, eccentric Italian dresses and rustic Dutch booties.

32 CLIFTON ROAD, LONDON W9 1ST joujouandlucy.com

OLIVE LOVES ALFIE

Blazing the style trail in the world of baby and children’s retail since 2006, Olive Loves Alfie offers a hand-picked selection of inspiring and imaginative clothing, interiors and toys for stylish little ones up to 14 years. We’re talking fun, Scandinavian-style clothing with quirky prints from a mix of lesser-known brands such as Rukka, Modéerska Huset and Little Titans. Olive Loves Alfie’s founder, Ashlyn Gibson, also designs her own pieces.

84 STOKE NEWINGTON CHURCH STREET, LONDON N16 0AP olivelovesalfie.co.uk

ON LIN E

FANCY KIDS

The people at Fancy Kids believe there need not be a trade off between eco-friendliness and style; packed with characterful fashion, toys and lifestyle accessories, everything here is organically produced and of the highest quality. You can shop from a wide range of worldwide independent designers for children up to 10 years old, and every product is just as ethical as it is beautiful, so you can indulge your little ones without an ounce of guilt. fancykids.com

ON LIN E

IZZIWOTNOT

STOCKISTS

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOM LEIGHTON

Welcome home your bundle of joy with a luxury nursery set from Izziwotnot. Timeless and elegant, it’s furniture that will grow with your family. As a boutique dedicated to great British design, the prestigious Bailey Sleigh cot bed and the bestselling wicker moses baskets are firm favourites amongst London mums. izziwotnot.com

STOCKIST INFORMATION

Harlen wears cotton dungaree shorts, £68, Alex Eagle X Elfie.

Cotton T-shirt, £21.45, Emile et Ida at Smallable.

Bonpoint Catamini Clarks Elfie Emile at Ida Habitat Harrods I Love Gorgeous Mini Objects of Desire Mini Rodini Mothercare No Added Sugar Paperchase Rachel Riley Rigby & Mac Sisters Guild Stella McCartney The Mini Edit Tiger

bonpoint.com alexandalexa.com clarks.co.uk elfielondon.com en.smallable.com habitat.co.uk harrods.com ilovegorgeous.co.uk miniobjectsofdesire.com minirodini.com mothercare.com noaddedsugar.com paperchase.co.uk rachelriley.co.uk rigbyandmac.com sistersguild.com stellamccartney.com the-mini-edit.com tigerstores.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2016 | 157

The Wellbaby range has been formulated by Vitabiotics’ nutritional experts, to support the nutritional requirements of babies and young children. These needs are particularly high in order to support health and rapid physical growth. The UK Department of Health recommends that all infants aged from six months onwards should be given a supplement that contains vitamins A, C and D.1,2 Each Wellbaby formula provides a carefully balanced range of nutrients.

Multi-vitamin Drops – with iron, zinc, vitamins A, C and D comes with measuring syringe to safely administer drops onto your baby’s tongue.

Infant Liquid – great tasting liquid with 14 vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C and D, plus Swiss Alpine malt.

Vit D Drops – provides the exact level of vitamin D for young children as recommended by the UK Department of Health3, which is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.

Also available

MULTI-VITAMIN DROPS

INFANT LIQUID

VIT.D DROPS

INFANTS

ADWBYCONP 18-02-16E

4–12 months

4 months to 4 years

SMART CHEWABLE

CHILDREN 4–12 years

Great tasting VITAMINS for babies From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores and & wellbaby.com 1. Source: Healthy Start. 2. Unless they are drinking 500ml (or approx. 1 pint) of infant formula a day, as infant formula has vitamins added to it. 3.The UK Department of Health recommends that all infants and young children aged 6 months to 5 years take a daily supplement containing 7-8.5µg of vitamin D. *Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Value Sales 52 w/e 25th April 2015.

EMPORIUM

YOUR SHOPPING

emporium The Fine Cotton Company Soft to the touch, kind on your conscience

Personalised Garlands Personalised children’s clocks Only £2.00 letter made in per Britain plus p+p

Organic bedding & accessories for children & babies

www.littletimbers.co.uk

www.thefinecottoncompany.com

Horkesley 01234 589383 Joinery Ltd tel: web: www.littletimbers.co.uk

richmond practice

Bespoke Wooden • Stair Gates • Fire Guards • Stair Refurbs

35,9$7( '2&7256µ 6(59,&(

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01206 271 509 horkesleyjoinery@hotmail.co.uk www.horkesleyjoinery.co.uk

GP · Paediatrician · Gynaecologist

Artistic. Relaxed. Timeless.

020 8940 5009 Clinical excellence hassle-free

babylondon.co.uk | JULY/AUGUST 2016 | 159

EMPORIUM

160 | JULY/AUGUST 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

EMPORIUM

Baby London_99x129.indd 1

01/12/2015 15:23

Award winning

Multi-functional Nursing Scarf Turns into a Fashion accessory or a cover for Carseat and Pram

£5 off with code

BabyLondonND To help you lidays plan your ho EE FR ur yo t ge S S ACTIVITIE ID K 10 P TO ve Algar & monthly : news at http s id /K ly t. bi // ThingsToDo

Tel: 07976 660526 www.GreatHolidayLocations.com

Easy to Wear, even with one hand Maintain Eye Contact Available in range of designs

www.loveyush.co.uk

Intelligent Maternity Wear Different shape, same style.

0845 0038301 BumpaliciousMaternity.co.uk 10% discount quote London14 at checkout

babylondon.co.uk | JULY/AUGUST 2016 | 161

BUSINESS

The brand’s modern prints adorn everything from baby rompers to bedding

INSPIRE What prompted you to start Tobias & The Bear?

Leanne and I had been colleagues at an online fashion retailer for six years. We ended up having baby boys three months apart and both felt disheartened with the UK’s offering of clothing for little boys. After realising our shared passion for printed baby leggings, we discovered that they were an item seriously lacking on the UK scene. We decided to start our own brand named after our boys, Tobias Fox and Arlo Bear.

What sets the brand apart from other baby clothing labels?

We make absolutely everything in the UK, that’s always been important to us. We also want Tobias & The Bear to be a bank of great styles rather than revolving seasonal collections, so we keep all of our prints and then add to them every three months.

Where do you get your ideas?

Our boys. Our very first designs were based on their names, and most of the others have come from things they love, like robots and monsters. We try to keep an element of them in each print.

162 | JUL/AUG 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

RUTH COZENS

We catch up with the mother-of-two and co-founder of children’s clothing and interiors brand Tobias & The Bear You have a great ‘shoppable’ Instagram page. Are you both big fans of social media?

Huge fans! When we started the brand we set up an Instagram page and started posting pictures of our boys in the leggings, then we noticed customers would post their photos of their babies in Tobias & The Bear. Now, every time we log on, we have dozens of beautiful new images that our customers have shared – it’s so lovely to see. Another great thing

Leanne and Ruth with their boys

is that it allows us to get instant feedback – it’s often how we test the water for new designs.

How do you manage to juggle business with family life?

I’m that mum in the park pushing her toddler on a swing with one hand and sending emails with the other! Arlo goes to nursery three days a week and that’s when I get most of my work done. I also have a four-month-old daughter who’s with me each day, but I’m fortunate that she is an incredible sleeper and also currently very content to come along to meetings. Plus, Leanne and I are in constant contact on WhatsApp. What advice would you give to mothers who dream of starting their own company?

Don’t wait for the perfect time, just jump in! We deliberated

After starting with just four styles of leggings, Tobias & The Bear has added to its range

on starting the business for a while. Then, one afternoon, after reading Tim Ferriss’ The 4-Hour Work Week, we decided to just do it. We started small, with just four styles of leggings but were quickly able to add to our range as sales started to come in. There is also great support out there, including the brilliant Mothers Meeting, where you can mingle with like-minded mums.

What’s next on the horizon for Tobias & The Bear?

We’re currently designing our SS17 collection. Over the next few months we’ll be introducing new products and can’t wait to see what our customers think of them. We also have some exciting collaborations in the pipeline. We just can’t believe we started the business two years ago as a hobby and it’s growing into something that keeps us motivated every day. tobiasandthebear.com

SkyBaby Travel Mattress for Flying with a Baby SkyBaby Travel Mattress for Flying with a Baby

The SkyBaby Travel Mattress provides an ideal little bed when flying with your baby. Designed to fit neatly within a standard aeroplane seat, the SkyBaby works with or without the airline infant belt and allows your little one to sleep comfortably in your lap.

The SkyBaby Travel Mattress provides an ideal little bed when flying with your baby. Designed to fit neatly within a standard aeroplane seat, the SkyBaby works with or without the airline infant belt and allows your little one to sleep comfortably in your lap.

Not Rocket Science Ltd. StLtd. Crispin House, Not Rocket Science St Crispin House, St Crispin Way, Haslingden, Rossendale St Crispin Way, Haslingden, Rossendale Lancashire BB4 4PW Lancashire BB4 4PW www.sky-baby.co.uk Twitter: https://twitter.com/SkyBabyUK

info@notrocketscienceltd.com info@notrocketscienceltd.com Tel: +44Tel: (0)0151 151 528 528 8608 8608

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