Baby London November/December 2017

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CONTENTS NOVEM BER /DECEM BER 2017

48 about the l opens up g ei H e (p.6 0) in Kather renthood ’ ‘perfect pa of s re u ss pre

Halle wears cotton bodysuit, from £12, Cyrillus at Alex and Alexa. Cotton dungaree dress, £49, Wild & Gorgeous.

PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY

FEATURES

30

60 HEIGL ON HAPPINESS Hollywood actress Katherine Heigl is back with a new film, a new baby, and a whole new outlook 70 HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS We ask some of our favourite celebrities to reveal what the festive season means to them 76 RAISING THE BARRE Royal Ballet dancer Tara-Brigitte Bhavnani models some of this season’s most coveted maternity partywear 82 BEHIND THE BRAND: MERRYTHOUGHT Becky Dickinson meets the sisters who saved the UK’s last teddy bear factory 92 MIND THE GAP Is there really an ideal age difference for your children?

96 BABIES AND THE BIG SCREEN Leila Latif rounds up the capital’s top child-friendly cinemas 108 MOTHER KNOWS BEST What does new motherhood really teach you? Louise Pyne finds out 114 COULD IT BE TIME? Unsure of what to look for? These are the signs that you could be in labour 122 TACKLE THOSE TODDLER TANTRUMS Why adjusting your child’s diet could be the secret to a more peaceful life

STYLE

48 BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Adorably festive party dresses and knits to get them in the seasonal spirit 67 THE PARTY MIX As Christmas gets into full swing, feel your best in a maternity-friendly LBD and statement accessories

95

SHOPPING

27 BABY LONDON LOVES The perfect look for Christmas morning 29 SHOP THE SEASON From cosy sweaters to nursery essentials, your present wish list starts right here 104 TIME TO SHINE Beauty to add a little sparkle to your party season style 126 BABY’S FIRST CHRISTMAS Sweet stocking-fillers and decorations little ones will love

FOOD & TRAVEL

129 FOOD NEWS The latest offerings for little diners 130 CHRISTMAS COMFORTS From parsnip soup to sweet treats like cookies and fudge, these easy recipes can be enjoyed by everyone 135 TRAVEL NEWS The latest updates and family escapes

Carole Middleton helps you ce e rate a s first rist as babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 9

Editor-in-Chief Kate Freud Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Features Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West

138

Publisher Caroline Scott Finance Director Vicki Gavin Digital Media Manager James Dobson

136 POSTCARD FROM HAMPSHIRE Kate Freud and family report back from the palatial Four Seasons 138 HAPPY HOLIDAYS Heading away this Christmas? These are the best places to visit with baby in tow

REGULARS

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37

41

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65 87

Head of Market Samantha Howard Advertising Manager James Waldron Sales Executive Caroline Kimber

Illustrator Oliv er Jeffers talk s art lessons and the realiti es of fatherhood (p.91)

91

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small MY ESSENTIALS Binky Felstead talks London life, her new daughter India and date night with JP DATES FOR YOUR DIARY What’s going on this November and December FOCUS ON: COVENT GARDEN Where to eat, shop, learn and play in this trendy central location FESTIVE FAVOURITES The best reads for baby’s first Christmas INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION Family blogger Chloe Thurston is giving us all kinds of house goals MATERNITY FASHION NEWS Do bump style right – here’s how TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus, we review

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125 145 146 149 162

10 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

the Out ‘N’ About Nipper Double THE DAD DIARY Children’s author Oliver Jeffers answers all the important questions about fatherhood PARTY TIME: CHRISTMAS Carole Middleton is here to help you make baby’s festive season one to remember HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS What’s new in the world of wellbeing Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert shares her coping mechanisms for fertility struggles THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ This issue we ask, how much can breastfeeding mums drink?

DIARY OF A MUM Martha Alexander waves goodbye to maternity leave and heads back to work MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals TIME TO TALK The Bump Class discuss the signs of reflux THE REVIEW The best sleep suits and sleeping bags for baby’s best-ever bedtime INTERIOR NEWS Stylish updates and inspiring finds EDUCATION NEWS The latest from classrooms and beyond MEET THE HEAD Behind the scenes at Chinthurst School MINI AGENDA What’s on over the next two months INSPIRE Talking business with Cecile Reinaud of maternity label Séraphine

esti e finis ing touc es for the home

Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby London is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: babylondon.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: babylondon@chelseamagazines.com

Baby London Print ISSN 2040-8552 Online ISSN 2059-982X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2017 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: NELLIE Nellie wears cape with faux-fur trim, £64.95, Sarah Louise at Harrods. Sweater (just seen), £32, The Little White Company. Tights, £14, MP at Luna & Curious.

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Keep them cosy with the newest knits from La Coqueta Merino wool sweater £44, lacoquetakids.com Felt So Good felt wreath £51.45, notonthehighstreet.com

EDITORS

LETTER

Tonka scented candle £39, laboratoryperfumes.com

Oeuf NYC cushion £60, sistersguild.co.uk

KATE FREUD, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

Cashmere sweater £175, mariechantal.co.uk

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range of Christmassy recipes young taste buds are guaranteed to appreciate (p.130). And finally, Camilla Ridley-Day puts together the perfect pieces for pregnant or new mums to feel special during the party season (p.67).

We speak to Hollywood star Katherine Heigl about her new life as a mother of three, and juggling parenthood with the movies (p.60).

On a more everyday note, we look at how to control those toddler tantrums with the right foods when temptation lies everywhere (p.122), Clare Byam-Cook advises on how much we can really drink when breastfeeding (p.111) and Zita West offers helpful coping mechanisms for those desperately hoping for a child but unable to conceive (p.107).

And for those escaping the capital for the festive season, we round up the best sun and snow holidays for all the family to love (p.138). But, wherever you end up, enjoy this precious time with your family.

Merry Christmas everyone!

ND

UK

Caro & Zolie rattle £25, en.smallable.com

Hello, and welcome to our Christmas issue! I don’t know about you, but the festive season is one of those times I appreciate the most with my little ones. All the mystery and wonder as you see everything for the first time again through awe-filled eyes, and that sense of anticipation and excitement that just makes everything feel, well, magical again.

So, here we are, celebrating all that is glorious about it. If you’re looking for inspiration to get you in the mood in the lead up to the big day, our Mini Agenda is a must read (p.149), and our resident bookworm chooses the best Christmas books for baby (p.44). We speak to our favourite celebrities about what they are asking Santa for this year (p.70) and Made in Chelsesa star Binky Felstead tells all about her life in London and her excitement about her first Christmas with baby India (p.37). The beautiful Royal Ballet dancer Tara-Brigitte Bhavnani models the latest maternity fashions (p.76), and we cherry pick the cutest festive fashions for baby (p.48).

We also go behind the scenes of Britain’s last remaining teddy bear factory which makes bears for everyone from Harrods to Burberry (p.82). And Piccolo has created a delicious

O N .C O

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@baby_london

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 13

REBEC CA

LA

LEILA Where were you born?

At Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital in London.

Growing up, I split my time between Pimlico and Khartoum, Sudan.

What do you love most about the season?

It has to be the Christmas markets, especially the one down at the Southbank Centre.

What are your plans for Christmas this year?

This year I will be enjoying an extended Latif family trip to Koh Samui!

Leila talks baby-friendly cinemas on p.96

OR E , MO

MANA GI N ITOR ED

Where were you born?

I was born in Tooting, South London, and grew up in Wandsworth, St Albans and Esher.

What are your plans for Christmas this year?

This year my brother, sister and their families will be at my parents’ house for Christmas Day – we usually host so I am looking forward to a day off! My kids are super excited, they love everything about Christmas.

Helen captured our interview with Tara-Brigitte Bhavnani on p.76

RITER F, W I T

G

N, PHOTO GR SDE R A

HER AP

HELE NM

CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

I was lucky enough to grow up in Cornwall, but the hospitals are so few and far between, I was actually born across the border in Devon.

What do you love most about the season?

Nothing beats watching Home Alone on a cold night, next to the fire, glass of port in hand.

What are your plans for this year?

Every year I head south west to spend Christmas with my family. We love a walk on the beach on Christmas Day!

UK

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14 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

a litte bit about us... the boutique Eat Sleep Love is a beautiful, boutique, for expecting families. With a mixture of top brands and independent labels which we have hand picked to bring you the best in both value and style.

service Our appointments allow plenty of time to help you complie a list of essential and little luxuries for both Mummy and Baby. Giving you time to browse and receive thorough demonstrations and advice to help you make informed decisions. delivery We deliver all of your items on one convenient day. Ensuring that everything is set up for you and we will even take boxes!

location Conveniently located near Blackheath Standard 9 Delacourt Road, London SE3 8XA

book an appointment VISIT eatsleeplove.co.uk EMAIL info@eatsleeplove.co.uk CONTACT Laura or Andrew on 020 8269 2525

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Helpline 0800 328 5826 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 follow on formula is not suitable for infants with a cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a healthcare professional.

STYLING: KELLIE DAGGETT. WITH THANKS TO GRACE & GALOR. VELOUR BABYGROW, £68, MARIE-CHANTAL.

Maya

PHOTOGRAPHED BY HELEN MARSDEN

Ten month old Maya lives in Brighton and likes to play guitar like her daddy Manuel, and piano like her mum Eleanor. She also loves cats, playing with her friends, swimming and bananas. babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 17

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Our appreciation for Scandi style reaches new heights this winter with the ultra chic Nordic Blue Exclusive Edition of the Stokke Trailz pushchair.

Described as being ‘as robust and rugged as it is elegant’, it makes a perfect choice for active families. The new design’s lighter, water-repellent fabrics, optional wind-resistant storm cover and coordinating changing bag means you’ll have no problem protecting baby from the elements. £1,263, mothercare.com

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RESEARCHERS AT CARDIFF UNIVERSITY ARE CONDUCTING A STUDY TO LOOK AT HOW TONE OF VOICE MOTIVATES BABIES, AS IT’S THOUGHT THEY UNDERSTAND THE MEANING OF WHAT IS SAID LONG BEFORE THEY UNDERSTAND THE WORDS. TO TAKE PART IN THE 15-MINUTE STUDY, EMAIL TINYTOTOTS@CARDIFF.AC.UK. BABIES WILL BE REWARDED WITH A TOY AS A THANK YOU!

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 19

NEWS

SHOP ’TIL YOU POP Now there’s another great reason to make a trip to Harrods – the store has just opened its new baby layette, nursery furniture and prams department. Located amongst childrenswear on the fourth floor, shop a wide variety of brands, including Kissy Kissy, Paz Rodriguez and Bugaboo.

There’s a bespoke hamper service available, too, if you’re in need of a thoughtful gift. harrods.com

KNITTED WITH LOVE Cotton essentials brand Mori has launched its brand new organic knitwear collection.

The label, already known for its super-soft fabrics and socially conscious approach to manufacturing, will now offer adorable machine-washable hooded baby coats, cardigans, leggings and booties alongside its coveted range of sleeping bags, swaddles and sleepsuits. Available in sizes newborn to two years. From £28, babymori.com

LUNAR LESSONS An enchanting story that’s perfect for bedtime, Goodnight Baby Moon tells the story of a family of rabbits and their fascination with the moon as it waxes and wanes throughout its four-week cycle.

Little ones will love lighting up the moon on the interactive front cover, too! £11.99, DK Publishing

COMFORT AND JOY

You’ll find the perfect outfit for Christmas Day with the new Mini Collection from Bebe Bombom. Its traditional styles are made using the softest pima cotton – ideal for sensitive skin – and feature the brand’s trademark hand-smocked details in rich reds, crisp whites and navy. From £45, bebebombom.com

SHOP, SHARE AND SELL YOUR SECOND-HAND BABY KIT AT NEW ONLINE MARKETPLACE SPROUT + SHED. BROWSE THE SITE TO SHOP A RANGE OF QUALITY PIECES FROM OTHER SELLERS, INCLUDING PRE-LOVED CLOTHING, PRAMS, TOYS AND MORE. THERE’S ALSO A CURATED SELECTION FROM BOUTIQUES ACROSS THE UK, IF YOU’RE AFTER SOMETHING NEW. SPROUTANDSHED.CO.UK

20 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

NI NE I NTH E M I R R O R .CO M

NEWS

MONKEY MAGIC

PRINT POWER

Now even the littlest babies can join in on the Scamp & Dude fun! The label’s four new babygrow designs feature its signature leopard and lightning bolt prints, plus its slogan, ‘a superhero has my back’. Sizes start from newborn. £30, scampanddude.com

Since the success of its ingenious teething toy, Matchstick Monkey is continuing to comfort teething little ones with a new range of sumptuously soft bamboo blankets. The quick-drying designs are able to help regulate baby’s body temperature and offer soothing tactile stimulation with a clever woven-cotton label. £49.95, matchstickmonkey.com

INSIDE THE BOX The curated boxes from TwinkleBoxCo make the perfect gift to celebrate a new arrival. The four packages include luxury goodies such as Donsje leather booties, a Molly & Moo swaddle, and milestone cards, all wrapped up lovingly with a handwritten note. And if you want to treat the new parents, there’s boxes for coffee addicts and bathtime-lovers alike.

From £35, twinkleboxco.com

A DECADE OF DESIGNS Personalised jewellery brand Merci Maman is celebrating its 10th anniversary with an exclusive collection of necklaces. Combine a hammered disc charm with a hand-engraved message and a choice of 12 birthstones for a truly special piece of jewellery.

From £59, mercimamanboutique.com

CAPTURE THOSE PRECIOUS MEMORIES AND CHART HOW YOUR LITTLE ONE CHANGES OVER TIME WITH NEW APP BABY SNAP. TAKE A ONE-SECOND SNAPSHOT OF YOUR LITTLE ONE EVERY DAY AND, OVER TIME, THE CLIPS WILL BE COMPILED INTO A MINI TIME-LAPSE FILM FOR YOU TO SHARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS ON THE APP. FREE ON APPLE/ITUNES. BABYSNAP.CO

22 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

URBAN JUNGLE Walthamstow Wetlands, Europe’s largest urban wetland nature reserve, reopens to the public this month after a £10 million makeover.

Just 15 minutes from central London, the 10 reservoirs are home to waterbirds, a vast heronry and over 500 acres of land. walthamstow-wetlands.org.uk

FESTIVE FRIEND Get your tot in the Christmas spirit with this elf from Jellycat, named Leffy. The adorable chap, in his fur-trimmed coat and hat, looks equally good perched on a nursery shelf or being dragged around by baby. You’ll just have a hard time putting him away again until next year! £22, selfridges.com

FITNESS MEETS FASHION

Nutritional coach Madeleine Shaw, who recently gave birth to her first child, has created a line of activewear with Mamas & Papas. The nine-piece range offers practical features for both pregnant and postnatal women, such as popper detailing for easy breastfeeding, and leggings with a comfortable over-thebump waistband. In fact, these pieces are probably too good to save just for the gym… From £16, mamasandpapas.com

COVETABLE COLLAB

MAMA’S MUSLINS We’ve fallen head over heels for the latest swaddles from Mama Designs. Available from November, the geometric hummingbird print features in two shades. The pure cotton muslins are a multi-functional changing bag essential; from swaddling and comforting to burping and wiping. £15, mamadesigns.co.uk

This season has already served up some super-stylish collaborations and now cool comic strip Peanuts has teamed up with the equally cool Tobias & The Bear for a special collection.

The 23-piece range – which includes cute bibs and blankets as well as basic clothing essentials – features illustrations of Snoopy and friends, as well as Charlie Brown’s iconic yellow zigzag sweater print. That’s right, your baby is officially cooler than you.

Sizes from newborn to six years.

From £8, tobiasandthebear.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 23

NEWS

ALL WRAPPED UP Keep baby close and mimic the feeling of having a baby bump with the wrap carriers from Fornessi. Made from a biodegradable modal fabric, the wrap moulds to baby’s shape, supporting their back, leg and hips as recommended by the Hip Dysplasia Institute.

For instructional videos on the various ways you can tie the carrier, visit the Fornessi website. £62, fornessi.com

SLICE OF NICE

Parisian bakery export Paul has introduced a line of baby shower cakes. The Mon Bébé range is made with a lighter-than-light Genoese sponge and silky crème mousseline filling, coated in marzipan and suitably decorated in blue, pink or ivory, with four different sizes available to suit the occasion.

From £29.95, paul-uk.com

BEST OF THE BLOGS

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

Stylist and mum Bronagh rings ou er as ion finds while little Dolly is snoozing

THIS IS MOTHERSHIP

THE HOME THAT MADE ME

WHILE DOLLY SLEEPS

Run by beauty journalist Samantha Silver and celebrity stylist Gemma Rose Breger, This Is Mothership is a fashion and beauty destination for busy mums. After meeting on maternity leave, the pair felt there was a major gap in the market for a platform that ‘cool’ 30-something mums could relate to, from the best stain-resistant jeans to the top flake-free mascaras. The pair are expecting their second children, so current content includes lots on pregnancy essentials and maternity fashion. thisismothership.com

Charlotte, mum to four-year-old Elsa and twoyear-old Rory, lives just outside Bournemouth with husband Joe, and Mungo the pug. Her blog is a haven for interiors addicts, with posts on DIY makeovers, tutorials, bargain finds and upcycles, all on a limited budget. Amongst these posts are handy tips for taming the toys, tastefully styling a child’s bedroom and even the occasional guest post by her husband. thehomethatmademe.com

Fashion stylist Bronagh is mum to Dolly, and finds time to work on her blog, well – while Dolly sleeps. It features a double dose of fashion inspiration, with posts displaying both Bronagh and Dolly’s latest purchases and outfit choices. Little Dolly is hot on the heels of her mum; at only 18 months old she goes from kid rocker to Parisian chic to denim diva all in one week. whiledollysleeps.com

24 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

WIN

COMPETITION

£500 gift voucher from

o celebrate the launch of its Chelsea store opening this November, British fashion favourite Boden is offering a magical Christmas present exclusively to the readers of Baby London.

With ranges to keep the whole family looking effortlessly stylish this season, Boden is a brand known for its outstanding quality.

Baby Boden is the youngest member of the Boden family, with fun and functional styles for newborns to little ones aged up to four years. Shop the range to discover joyful prints and supersoft bodies, rompers and sleepsuits,

COMPETITION CLOSES 14 DECEMBER 2017

T

while its clever gifting range features everything from newborn head-to-toe outfit sets packaged in a beautiful gift box to adorable bibs, socks and muslins in matching printed bags.

Highlights from Baby Boden’s latest range include appliqué reindeer and robin playsuits, Fair Isle knits and gorgeous tulle party dresses for the festive season – think Mini Boden but with extra ‘aww’.

The Baby Boden collection is cleverly designed in capsules, so you can choose from a selection of ready-to-wear sets or mix and

match different pieces with ease. And talking of making things easy – when it comes to getting ready in the mornings, the welcome addition of poppers, envelope necks and elasticated waists will make dressing a doddle.

To celebrate the opening of the new store, which is set to feature pieces from the brand’s women’s, Mini Boden and Baby Boden collections, Boden is giving away a gift voucher worth £500 to spend in store or online. Visit the new opening on King’s Road, or shop for your family online at boden.com.

Good luck – and happy shopping!

To enter, visit babylondon.co.uk/competitions babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 25

LONDON’S SPECIALIST BABY CARRIER STORE Need help choosing the right baby carrier? Want to try before you buy?

Come to an in-store workshop. You can hire slings and carriers at our Boutique for up to 2 weeks, so you can be confident you are buying the right ones.

Our expert team offers one-to-one Consultations and drop-in sessions around London and the South East, so get in touch for sling help near you.

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SHOPPING

LOVES

Watch baby waddle!

That’s Christmas chic sorted from front to back

Pick up a penguin If you want to make a nod to the season but don’t want to dress your tot in the traditional Christmas pudding or Santa suit, look no further than this gorgeous printed cotton babygrow from Stella McCartney Kids. There will be no need to get in a style flap with this cute-as-a-button penguin sketch design on both the front and back, it is guaranteed to make the perfect seasonal suit for baby on Christmas morning.

Stella McCartney Kids babygrow, £50, childrensalon.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 27

mercimamanboutique.com

Baghera pedal car £160, cottage-toys.co.uk Cashmere bonnet £32, olivierbaby.com

Patent leather shoes £9.95, gap.co.uk

Cotton velvet shirt and shorts set £79, rachelriley.co.uk

From a selection mothercare.com

Wool and cashmere sweater £115, chloe.com

Corduroy dress £32, welovefrugi.com

Mayoral sweater £22, childrensalon.com FUB wool mittens £18, lunaandcurious.com

CHERRY PICKED

Go cosy and crimson for Christmas, with fun woolly knits and adorable tartan pieces

Maileg matchbox mouse £13.50, polarpost.co.uk

Orb all-terrain pushchair £450, mothercare.com

Cotton-blend trousers £77, bonpoint.com

Cotton dress £28, jojomamanbebe.co.uk Merino wool hat £67, bonpoint.com

Cotton babygrow £44, elfielondon.com

Wool stocking £35, ianmankin.co.uk

SHOPPING Cotton tights £9, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Alimrose Designs fairy doll £25, lilyandfred.co.uk

Leander hanging cradle £179, miniobjectsofdesire.com

From a selection adenandanais.co.uk Siebensachen music box £84.99, toyella.com

Nobodinoz changing pad £16, mollymeg.com

Organic cotton bodysuit £49, mabelchild.co.uk

Cotton-blend dress £173, chloe.com

HIGH SHINE

Put some sparkle into the festive season with polished gold and a magical sprinkling of stars and sequins

Carrément Beau lurex shorts £33, alexandalexa.com

Alpaca wool sweater £79, mamaowl.net

Sheepskin baby nest £592, bonpoint.com

Young Soles leather shoes £67, scandimini.com

Cotton jacquard dress £150, mariechantal.co.uk

Linen crown £25, fableheart.com

Crochet 30 | NOV/DEC 2017rug | babylondon.co.uk £69.99, zarahome.com

Sequin teddy bear £140, steiff.com

The Online Baby Boutique

www.lucyandbelle.com

Cashmere blanket £120, olivierbaby.com

Miann & Co crochet rattle £12, lilyandfred.co.uk Annaliv snowsuit £65, rosesandthestars.com From a selection scandiborn.co.uk

Stokke Tripp Trapp chair £169, stokke.com

The Snowman plush toy £59, steiff.com

Cotton poplin dress £107, bonpoint.com

Merino wool cardigan £44, lacoquetakids.com

Maileg reindeer £45, nubie.co.uk

Timberland padded coat £70, houseoffraser.co.uk

Merino wool bodysuit £51, scarletribbonmerino.com

EVER GREEN Wool sack £65, ianmankin.co.uk

Merino wool cardigan £34, mamaowl.net Cotton bib £8.95, gap.co.uk

Caramel corduroy romper £87, childrensalon.com

Nofred dolls’ house £119.95, scandiborn.co.uk Crochet Miss Rudolph toy £26.99, en.naturezooshop.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 33

Crochet playmat £99.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Cotton bodysuit £66, lacoquetakids.com

Organic cotton bodysuit £22, babymori.com

Merino wool sweater £44, scarletribbonmerino.com

Fable Heart angel wings £50, lilyandfred.co.uk Nobodinoz changing pad £16, mollymeg.com

From a selection bimbleshoes.com

Merino wool stocking £44.95, torimurphy.com

Cotton trousers £14, cathkidston.com

Sebra crochet rattle £12.99, scandiborn.co.uk

TOUCH OF FROST

Kenzo Kids snowsuit £118, childrensalon.com

A parade of pastel blues and greys mixed with icy silver accents makes a sweet, shimmery addition to baby’s party wardrobe Cotton bodysuit £26.45, thebonniemob.com Misha & Puff merino wool romper £118, scandimini.com Faux leather backpack £130, tibaandmarl.com

Cotton blanket 34 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk £45, babymori.com

Tartine et Chocolat dress £105, harrods.com

Stomp V3 travel system £449, icklebubba.com

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INTERVIEW

Binky keeps a tube of Weleda’s smoothing body cream to hand for both her and India Weleda Baby Calendula Moisturising Body Cream £8.95, weleda.co.uk

Pictured with the cast of Made in Chelsea for the show’s BAFTA win in 2013

MY ESSENTIALS

The reality TV star shares a sweet snap of her family

BINKY FELSTEAD

How has life been lately as mother to baby India?

It’s just incredible; I absolutely love it. She is developing such a sweet personality – she’s really smiley which makes me so happy! In case you couldn’t tell, I’m smitten…

How has having your daughter changed things for you?

It gives you a crazy amount of responsibility overnight, but it’s been just the best thing for me.

I’ve always been a very maternal person so thankfully I feel it’s all come very naturally.

Did you have an enjoyable pregnancy?

I was very lucky – no morning sickness, and just a few headaches at the beginning. I did, however, crave everything naughty I could get my hands on, and carbs galore!

Cotton fleece babygrow £30, thewhitecompany.com

The Made in Chelsea star on life with her new daughter India, London lifesavers and date night with JP Tell us more about your product range with My 1st Years – what can we expect?

It’s just a dream come true because I’ve been a customer of My 1st Years for years – it’s always been my go-to shop for baby gifts. My collection features 10

wardrobe staples in two prints.

There’s a sleepsuit, pyjama set, comforter, blanket and a selection of bibs, and they can all be personalised. It’s available for babies and children aged up to six years. We also wanted to ensure everything was still very

affordable, as kids grow so fast, so prices start at £9.

Why did you decide to venture into parenting retail?

Now I’m a mum I know exactly what I want and need for India – I’m living and breathing it every day at home – so it felt like the perfect collaboration for me.

Where else do you love to shop for India?

I love The Little White Company and JoJo Maman Bébé at the moment because she just lives in babygrows. We seem to get through so many! But we have lots of beautiful outfits hanging in the wardrobe for her to wear when we get through this stage.

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

Probably Pampers nappies and wipes, and Weleda Baby Calendula Body Cream, which

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 37

INTERVIEW

The family like to escape to the Sussex countryside on weekends

I also use on myself. Weleda’s products are amazing, we always use them in the bath, too.

How have you found juggling new motherhood with your TV work?

It is really hard to get that balance right but I enjoy being a working mother. I have great help with the support of my mum, and I can sometimes take India to work with me.

You started filming Born in Chelsea when you were pregnant, was it difficult having a camera crew around with a small baby or did you get used to it pretty quickly?

Honestly, I’m so used to it – and I’m really pleased we decided to document that time in our lives. We were also lucky that the response from the viewers was so kind, JP and I were very touched by everyone’s comments.

38 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

The star’s new baby and children’s collection includes comforters, bibs and sleepwear Personalised blanket £22, my1styears.com

Where do you live in London?

We still live in Chelsea and love it. That said, we try to get out to the Sussex countryside as much as possible at the weekends for fresh air and relaxation.

Where in the capital do you like to go with India when you get Binky and JP have been giving viewers an insight into their lives as a growing family on their show, Born in Chelsea

some free time?

It sounds really simple but a walk always makes me feel better. We head to Battersea Park and stroll along the river.

What about when you manage to carve out some time for yourself?

I enjoy a little pampering, so I tend to use Secret Spa, which brings luxury beauty treatments to your home. It offers everything from manicures, tans, and hair and make-up, to massages and facials.

The therapists come to my home,

and are wonderful – it’s a lifesaver now that I have India!

And for date night with JP? We really like The Ivy Chelsea Garden, it’s near to where we live and it’s so beautiful. Bluebird Chelsea is also great for supper and cocktails, but at the moment we’re pretty happy to stay in!

What are your plans for Christmas?

We’re planning on spending Christmas in Sussex with my family and sister, who had her baby recently, too! We do a really traditional Christmas – lots of games, food and presents. I’m so excited for India’s first Christmas.

What does next year hold?

It’s definitely about having lots more fun with India, JP and my family, and I’ll also be doing more designing for My 1st Years.

‘With Love From Binky’ for My 1st Years is available at my1styears.com

INTERVIEW: KATE FREUD. PHOTOGRAPHY: EMMA TUNBRIDGE; ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK; REX IMAGES/JAMES GOURLEY; INSTAGRAM/BINKYFELSTEAD

s been she has alway Binky admits on nal pers ’ ‘a very mater

H OT E L A N D S PA

BA BY F RIE N DLY H O LI DAYS IN CORN WAL L You play, relax and catch up on some sleep. We’ll take care of the rest

CRÈCHE

•

WARM POOLS

www.sandsresort.co.uk

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SOFT PLAY

•

2-ROOM FAMILY SUITES

reception@sandsresort.co.uk

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Handcrafted Natural Dolls www.ciaobimba.com /ciaobimbadolls

@ciaobimba.dolls

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NOVEMBER 1 FOOD FOR THOUGHT

For every Piccolo pouch purchased in November, the infant food brand will match it with a pouch donation to The Trussell Trust, which helps struggling families across the country feed their children. £1.10 each, waitrose.com

Take a spin

Winter scenes make for the cosiest date nights, and from 15 November one of London’s most vibrant festive settings comes alive as Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason returns. Once you’ve dusted your skates off, warm up in The Lodge for a hot chocolate and a spot of cheese fondue. Tickets from £7.50, somersethouse.org.uk/skate.

5 LIGHT UP

Remember, remember… it’s the most illuminating night of the year! Wrap baby up nice and warm and celebrate Guy Fawkes Night at one of the fantastic firework displays across the capital. Or grab the sparklers, toast marshmallows and host your own party.

dates for your

DIARY

9 WELCOME

TO THE CLUB

Mothercare has partnered with a team of parenting heroes, including Zoe De Pass of @DressLikeaMum, to host an interactive event for expectant parents. 12pm to 2pm, Mothercare Greenwich, Brocklebank Road SE7 7FR

Knitted cotton set £35, boden.com

FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER

Jumpers for joy To celebrate Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day, the charity has joined forces with Selfish Mother for a second year. Selfish Mother founder Molly Gunn and a host of stars, including Poppy Delevingne, David Gandy and Lauren Laverne, have created a range of slogan sweaters that not only look good, but do good too. Available to purchase from 29 October. A 50% donation goes to Save the Children, £50, thefmlystore.com

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

11 BUST A MOVE

Could there be a better way to see in the party season than with Rave-A-Roo? We think not. The baby and kids’ party is the best in town – this month shake it with Shaun The Sheep as he hits the decks at Ministry of Sound.

12.45pm and 4pm. From £12.10 each; babies under 18 months go free. rave-a-roo.com

18 SANTA, BABY! Returning for its 10th magical year, today sees the opening of Lapland UK. Expect a truly immersive experience with interactive storytelling, enchanting props, and of course, the big man in red.

From £65, laplanduk.co.uk

DECEMBER 3 SHOP SMART

This weekend discover gorgeous wares from some of the most exciting kids’ brands around at Babyccino’s Shop Up event. Entry is free. Chelsea Old Town Hall, babyccinokids.com

9 TRÉS JOLIE

From 2pm to 5pm today, selected Petit Bateau stores will be partnering with Club Petit Pierrot to host a festive family event with a Parisian twist. Expect Christmas arts and crafts, plus music and dancing. All ages and levels of French welcome. clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

14 WIN BIG!

Today’s your last chance to win prizes at babylondon. co.uk/competitions

25

MERRY CHRISTMAS The big day is finally here!

We wish you a very happy Christmas, from everyone at Baby London.

31

HE’S BEHIND YOU! Christmas day may be over but panto season hasn’t quite ended yet – you can still catch Cinderella at Hackney Empire until today, with original music by Steven Edis. Tickets vary from £10 to £36.50, hackneyempire.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 41

WHERE TO SHOP Located in the capital’s West End, Covent Garden is a hub of food, theatre and entertainment

FOCUS ON

ZARA BABY

COVENT GARDEN

High street favourite Zara has launched its first standalone baby shop in the heart of Long Acre. Sizes stocked range from newborn up to four years. 52-56 Long Acre

Discover the best spots to eat, shop, learn and play in this trendy central location London Transport Museum

THE PHOENIX GARDEN This community garden, just off Seven Dials, is one of the area’s best-kept secrets, offering an oasis of calm all year round. thephoenixgarden.org THE NATIONAL GALLERY See some wonderful art and enjoy a variety of workshops

Wahaca

PlayCantonese, where little ones can learn the language through songs, stories and play. westminster.gov.uk MINI MOZART Held at St Martin-in-theFields, Trafalgar Square, these interactive sessions are taught by professional musicians. minimozart.com

for babies and toddlers. nationalgallery.org.uk

MEET OTHER MUMS YMCA CLUB Just minutes from Charing Cross Road, the YMCA Club is part of the health charity of the same name. Here you’ll find activities for babies aged up to three, including an art group, cooking class and soft play sessions. ymcaclub.co.uk CHARING CROSS LIBRARY Enjoy weekly sessions for under-fives featuring songs and rhymes, as well as

GRAB A BITE

THE MOOMIN SHOP

Who can resist The Moomins? Tove Jansson’s loveable characters adorn babygrows, bibs and melamine crockery.

There are pieces for older children, too.

43 Covent Garden Market

WAHACA With a dedicated kids’ menu, stylish Stokke high chairs and brilliant Mexican fare, this restaurant chain caters for everyone. wahaca.co.uk FRANCO MANCA The best sourdough pizza in London for a very reasonable price. francomanca.co.uk TREDWELLS There’s a seven-course menu for kids (yes, really) and plenty of delicious dishes for parents, too. tredwells.com

SASS & BELLE

Shop here for a lovely selection of goodies for baby, from nursery décor to bright crockery. We defy you not to pick up something for yourself, too!

21-22 New Row

NURSERIES AND SCHOOLS: SOHO FAMILY CENTRE NURSERY, 020 7439 1578, LEYF.ORG.UK; TURTLES NURSERY, 020 7240 8136, TURTLESNURSERYCOVENTGARDEN.CO.UK; ÉCOLE JEANNINE MANUEL, 020 3829 5970, ECOLEJEANNINEMANUEL.ORG.UK 42 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

WORDS: ANNIE QUINTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: MAP DATA ©2017 GOOGLE, ISTOCK

OUT AND ABOUT LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Little ones of all ages will love this enchanting museum – step aboard real buses and trains, and have a go on the tube driving simulator. Kids go free. ltmuseum.co.uk

Festive favourites Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P TH E BE ST R E ADS FOR BABY ’S FIR ST CH RISTMAS

CHRISTMAS This simple yet beautiful adaptation of the Nativity story by Miffy creator Dick Bruna features his trademark bold illustrations. It makes an eye-catching and supremely stylish Christmas keepsake for baby’s nursery. £10, Simon & Schuster

ILLUSTRATION: © MERCIS

By Dick Bruna

BOOKS

This adorable board book comes from author Raymond Briggs, best known for The Snowman

CHRISTMAS ABC

By Jannie Ho

This first alphabet book is packed with festive details encouraging letter-sound practice, with bright illustrations and sturdy pages. £5.99, Nosy Crow

THIS IS THE KISS

provides more than just a jingle.

Easy-to-use fingerprint points activate six jolly songs, bringing the bold illustrations to life. £7.99, Nosy Crow

SNOW

By Sam Usher

of Christmas: Will Morris’s greedy behaviour get the better of him?

This read is brilliantly funny. £9.99, Flying Eye Books

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT: SNOW GLOBE GIFT BOOK

This mini gift edition tells the tale of a boy and his grandfather experiencing the excitement and anticipation of a fresh fall of snow, but are they the only ones looking forward to a snowball fight? A delightfully sensitive future classic. £5.99, Templar Publishing

By Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury

LISTEN TO THE CHRISTMAS SONGS

MORRIS WANTS MORE

By Patricia Toht and Jarvis

By Marion Billet

By Amélie Falière and Joshua Seigal

Perfect for sharing, this book

An anarchic retelling of the 12 days

By Claire Harcup and Gabriel Alborozo This charming, lyrical picture book celebrates the bond between parent and child, with illustrations that will warm even the frostiest of hearts! £6.99, Walker Books

The unique snow globe cover adds a special festive flurry to this timeless classic. Little ones will be entranced by the well-loved and beautifully lyrical bear hunt story. £12.99, Walker Books

PICK A PINE TREE

Stunning illustrations complement a beautiful narrative celebrating the rituals of decorating the tree;

a classic to revisit every Christmas. £11.99, Walker Books

A CHRISTMAS FOR BEAR

By Bonny Becker and Kady MacDonald Denton

Celebrate with Bear and Mouse in this charming story about Bear’s first-ever Christmas party.

A lovely, seasonal introduction to friendship and sharing. £12.99, Walker Books

THE SNOWDOG

By Raymond Briggs

A Snowdog isn’t just for Christmas – and this board-book version can be treasured forever. A heartwarming rhyming tale for the very young, starring everyone’s favourite snowy pup. £7.99, Puffin

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 45

PROFILE

GET THE LOOK

Misha & Puff wool sweater £126, scandimini.com

Handmade basket £42, tillyandcub.com

Numero 74 cotton canopy £95, mollymeg.com

INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION

@CHLOEUBERKID Why did you start your blog, Uber Kid? I started blogging about four years ago after I had my fourth baby. I was really aware of time whizzing by and wanted to force myself to have a photo sort-out every week to try to record some of our everyday life that my brain would be otherwise too full to remember!

What do you love about Instagram in particular?

My favourite thing about Instagram is that you can make friends all over the world, who you know are just as interested and excited about the same things as you, that you would in no way meet otherwise.

Who do you take inspiration from?

I love @scandimini, @cissywears, @themodernnursery and @molly_meg_ for kids’ fashion and décor, @dhowelldesigns for interiors, and @apphia___ for her

46 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

Ostheimer wooden toys From £12.45, consciouscraft.uk

amazing family. I’m lucky to have met most of them in person, and they are all just as inspiring in reality.

You share photos of the many corners of your lovely home, do you have a particular interest in interiors?

I am obsessed! The only problem is, I want to be minimalist, and it just doesn’t fit well with five kids!

What is the key to taking a good snap?

Daylight! I always think lots of natural light makes for the best shots. That, and perhaps clearing some of the more unsightly day to day stuff out of the way…

What’s on your Christmas wish list this year?

I think with the present influx, gorgeous baskets are always high on my list. My husband and I tend to buy a joint gift for ourselves, and as we’ve recently moved, it will definitely be something house related.

Fable Heart satin crown £25, cissywears.com

Mini Be ball pit £125, themodernnursery.com

A

LIVE

THE

SHOPPING

ULTIM ATE

EVENT

CHRISTMAS

SHOPPING MORE

THAN

50

FABU LOUS SUN MON

FAIR

INDEPENDENT

BOUTIQUES

UNDER

FOOD 3

&

DEC

4

CHELSEA KING’S

DEC

OLD

BY

CHILDREN’S

ONE

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ACTIVITIES

NOON-6PM 10A M - 5PM

TOWN

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@THESHOPUP #THESHOPUP BABYCCINOKIDS.COM/SHOPUP

THIS PAGE: Owen wears cotton-blend shirt and shorts set, £53, Sarah Louise at Childrensalon.

Cotton socks, £7, Amaia. Pram shoes, from £10, Next.

RIGHT PAGE: Halle wears cotton dress, £53, Patachou. Knitted bonnet, £28, What Mother Made at Luna & Curious.

Baby, IT S COLD OUTSIDE

PHOTOGR APHY: KEN COPSEY ST YLING: CHAR LOT TE KEWLEY

THIS PAGE: Nellie wears embroidered mesh cape, £48, Velveteen. Corduroy romper, £85, Caramel. Cotton blouse, £30, Patachou. Cotton tights, £14, MP at Luna & Curious.

LEFT PAGE: Violetta wears cotton bodysuit, £40, What Mother Made at Luna & Curious. Fleece bonnet, £44, Grevi at Childrensalon.

THIS PAGE: Violetta wears cotton dress, from £15, and pram shoes, from £13, both Next. Cotton tights, £10, Pepa & Co. RIGHT PAGE: Lola Jade wears cotton and lurex bodysuit, £52, Velveteen.

Cashmere bonnet, £32, Olivier Baby and Kids.

THIS PAGE: Carter wears cotton cardigan, £28, Cath Kidston.

Cashmere romper, from £49, Olivier Baby and Kids. Cotton bodysuit (just seen), £44.95, Paz Rodriguez at Harrods.

LEFT PAGE: Elias wears wool-blend sweater, £22, Mayoral at Alex and Alexa. Cotton shirt (just seen), £40, Pepa & Co. Corduroy trousers, £42, Olivier Baby and Kids.

THIS PAGE: Halle wears lamé dress, £229, Bonpoint. Cashmere bonnet, £32, Olivier Baby and Kids.

RIGHT PAGE: Owen wears cottonknit bodysuit, £42, Emile et Rose.

Cotton shirt (worn underneath), £42, Amaia.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: PABLO ANTOLLI. STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: PARIS CAMPBELL. MODELS: CARTER, ELIAS, HALLE, LOLA JADE, NELLIE, OWEN, VIOLETTA, VIVIENNE. MODEL AGENCIES: ALPHABET KIDZ, BABY GRACE, KIDS LONDON, RAY & ROBIN, TINY ANGELS CHRISTMAS TREES THROUGHOUT COURTESY OF CHRISTMASTREEWORLD.CO.UK

Cotton tights £6.95, gap.co.uk Jacquard dress £29, mamasandpapas.com Cotton dress and bloomers set £12, matalan.co.uk

Cable knit cardigan £12, marksandspencer.com

Cotton dress and bodysuit set £20, mothercare.com

Laranjinha bonnet £22, childrensalon.com

Lola Jade wears cotton blouse, £32, Patachou.

Cotton romper, £39, Olivier Baby and Kids. Headband, £22, Noé & Zoë at Monkey McCoy

Cotton bodysuit and trousers set £22, next.co.uk

Cotton denim dungarees £16, johnlewis.com

Pleated chiffon dress £34.95, gap.co.uk Cotton dungarees and bodysuit set £18, marksandspencer.com

Cotton and cashmere cardigan £14, johnlewis.com

Cotton sweater £18.99, hm.com

SHOP THE SHOOT

From bow-bedecked dresses to classic tartan and fair isle knits, here’s our edit

Cotton dress and tights set £16, mothercare.com

Taffeta dress £12, matalan.co.uk

Celavi wool bonnet £8, childrensalon.com

Cotton-blend sweater £12, next.co.uk Knitted cotton bodysuit £16, next.co.uk

Marie-Chantal velvet and silk-blend dress £38, marksandspencer.com

Cotton leggings £9.99, zara.com

COMPILED BY: CHLOE COLLYER

Metallic cardigan £18, monsoon.co.uk

Fornessi

The wrap Supporting the transition from womb to the world

INTERVIEW

60 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

INTERVIEW

Heigl on happiness WITH A N EW FILM , A N EW BABY AN D A BR AN D -N EW AT TITU DE, Katherine Heigl IS BACK – WELL AND TRULY, SAYS K AR EN AN N E OVERTON

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 61

INTERVIEW

eductive, sexy and – whisper it quietly – sensible, Katherine Heigl isn’t the first A-lister to have taken time away from the big screen to recharge her batteries, but she’s arguably one of the more deserving. Having appeared in more than 30 film roles since bursting onto the scene at the start of the 1990s, her acrimonious departure from Grey’s Anatomy marked a subtle slowing-down of screen time, certainly as far as her selection of blockbuster scripts goes.

Attention, instead, has been directed towards family life. The 38 year old has cultivated an adorable brood with husband Josh Kelley, 37; the youngest of whom – Joshua Jnr – arrived just days before last Christmas.

“We’re going all over again with the diapers and sleepless nights,” she says with a jokey sigh. “Actually, Joshua is good. He sleeps pretty well. And I’ve got my little army of helpers – that’s why you have older kids!”

Those ‘helpers’ comprise daughters Naleigh, eight, and Adaline, four. Both are adopted – Adaline from Louisiana and Naleigh from South Korea, where Heigl’s own sister, Meg, was adopted from. Motherhood suits the actress, who is warm and open when I speak to her about family. In fact, her life outside of Tinseltown is so down to earth, you begin to wonder if it’s Hollywood that doesn’t suit Heigl, rather than the other way around. In the past she has been labelled ‘difficult’, but there’s very little indication of that as we chat.

The family lives on an idyllic ranch in Utah, eschewing the madness of Los Angeles for a life of rambling fields and animals. But despite her surroundings, the Killers actress does admit to feeling pressure, particularly with the rise of social media, to portray ‘the good life’.

“Before, we were bombarded to a certain extent, but there was an accessible off-switch.

Now, it’s pinging on your phone multiple times a day,” she says. “And I’m guilty of it, too. I use filters; I want that pose to accentuate my best side. And then I just want to put up a cute picture with my kids, even if there’s an extra

S

62 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

Katherine and husband Josh Kelley married in 2007

THERE HAS TO COME A POINT WHERE YOU SAY, ‘ENOUGH – I CAN ONLY DO SO MUCH’ chin in there!

“Life is not perfect. Parenthood is far from perfect, but we all try to emulate that. When I was younger, I strove for perfection a lot; I had this attitude that I can physically do it all, so I should do it all. But that isn’t feasible.”

But with three children, a career and a ranch to run, how does she balance it all? “I don’t, I really don’t, and that’s OK!” she says. “I think women can beat themselves up over this, but there has to come a point where you say, ‘Enough. I can only do so much at one time’.

“When you’re working, it’s time away from the family. When I’m with my family, that’s a choice to keep me away from my job. That’s how it is and I can’t do it all. Fortunately, I have an amazing husband. He’s the best, best dad.”

The one-time rom-com queen this year made a triumphant return to cinema in Unforgettable alongside Rosario Dawson.

Playing a deranged ex-wife intent on ruining her estranged husband’s new relationship, Heigl comes across as terrifying – in one scene she even disturbed herself when she had to be deliberately cruel to her character’s daughter, Lily (played by 10-year-old Isabella Rice).

“That was the hardest aspect by far,” she admits. “I’ve never had to be horrible to a child before and she is so professional, she knows it’s all part of the job. But that scene, where I’m cutting her hair and she’s sobbing, it’s not fake – no tear stick or drops in her

eyes, she is actually crying so hard. After the first take, I walked straight out of the room and cried my eyes out. It took a while to get it together after that. It felt so wrong and went completely against the nature of who I am.”

Heigl rarely disappoints in front of the camera. Her punchy spirit is certainly a draw, but most of all she has proven herself to be a talented actress. Over time, she will likely go from strength to strength, understanding that it’s life’s experiences – whether difficult or wondrous – that propel you to be your best.

“I’m pretty sure I could never have played a mum until I became one myself, and fortunately it worked like that. You can’t really pull on something so powerful and encompassing without having gone through it yourself,” says Heigl fervently, before adding with a wistful sigh, “And it is powerful – motherhood is the most powerful experience you will ever go through.”

With co-sta r Leslie Man n in 20 07’s romantic co medy Knock ed Up

PHOTOGRAPHY: PA IMAGES/DOUG PETERS; GETTY IMAGES /BAUER-GRIFFIN; GETTY IMAGES/JASON LAVERIS; INSTAGRAM/KATHERINEHEIGL; UNIVERSAL PICTURES

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babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 65

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Kate Freud asks a few famous faces what Christmas means to them

Jade PARFITT

Model and mother to Jackson, Tabitha and Silver What do you love most about Christmas?

I love the whole build up; the planning and shopping, the mulled wine and mince pies, and most of all the chaos and excitement of watching the kids opening their presents on Christmas morning.

What are your plans this year?

This year we will be spending Christmas at home with whichever family members we can persuade to join us! And then we will divide the rest of our time between my parents’ home in Devon and my partner Jack’s family here in London.

How lovely to have your new addition, Silver [who was born in September], arrive just in time for the big day. Are your older children excited?

Jackson is 10 and absolutely loves Christmas; he already has a pretty long present list that ranges from a lizard to a Nintendo Switch. His sister Tabitha will be two, so it will be her first Christmas that she really gets involved with.

She has just worked out how to open presents so I think she is going to have a lot of fun this year, and having Silver is just the icing on the cake for all of us.

Where do you shop for your children’s Christmas presents?

One of my favourite new discoveries for beautiful kids’ clothes is Elfie London. I have bought some super pretty dresses and babygrows for my girls there recently. The Lego store is a must for Jackson; Boden for winter coats and scarves; Hunter wellies for the kids and grown ups, and high on my list this year is a kids’ art easel from Ikea.

And for your food, tree and decorations?

We’ve been gathering decorations from all sorts of places over the years, the best ones are always the ones the kids make. With two under-twos at home I’m quite partial to an Ocado shop at the moment, which we will be topping up with some fresh organic veg and meat from Riverford Farm. I will also pop into Jeroboams to get some cheese and crackers.

What do you do in London at this time?

I love London in the run up to Christmas. We will likely take the kids to see the lights on Oxford Street, maybe on the way to Winter Wonderland, which has become a yearly excursion. We also enjoy the ice skating at Somerset House, and try to see a pantomime

at the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith – this year it’s Jack and the Beanstalk – it always gets everyone in the mood for Christmas.

And what’s on your wish list for yourself?

High on my list this year are some new jeans from Mother denim, an oversized men’s cashmere jumper and some small gold hoop earrings.

What are your hopes for 2018?

At the moment I would settle happily for a few nights sleep in a row! Otherwise, I am excited to see my little ones growing up and I look forward to getting back to work, too.

Jasmine GUINNESS

Model, muse and mother to Elwood, Otis and Ruby What do you love most about Christmas?

I love giving presents! I used to be very good at finding the perfect thing for each person but as I have had more kids, they seem to take up all my inspiration. I also love all the preparation, decorating the tree, putting the presents under it (usually last minute) and getting the lunch table ready.

Ireland g back to e headin b as l m il st w ri e is Ch Jasmin family th with her

What are your plans this year?

I hope to go to Ireland with my family

this year, to my grandparents’ house. Ireland will always be home to me and I count the days until I get back.

Where do you love to shop for your children’s presents?

Until last March I had a toy shop in Notting Hill called Honeyjam, so all I had to do was go to work to sort out all my kids’ presents, and most of my family’s too. However, now I will have to venture into other shops, which is very exciting. I will still shop around Portobello though; I love all the independent stores that have such original things to discover. I particularly love Ceramica Blue, the Spice Shop, Supra, Books for Cooks and Lutyens & Rubenstein.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 71

We end up dancing around the sit ting r��m t records with the ids til l m And for your Christmas food, tree and decorations?

I always get my tree from Pines and Needles, and I love Dukeshill Ham Co, which delivers all sorts of amazing food like cured meats, Brie and piccalilli. It’s also great for sending people presents if you won’t see them. Decorations I pick up all over the place – every year I give my kids a special one each. My favourites last year were my new Lulu Guinness tree decorations which are chic and just stand out, like all her designs.

What do you do in London during the festive season?

This is the first time I won’t be living in London for 20 years or so, as we have recently moved to Wales. I will be doing a few shopping and party trips on the train though, which sounds very festive and Christmassy – I can’t wait.

And what’s on your wish list for yourself?

It’s not very glamorous, but what I would love more than anything is a chicken run!

Do you have any plans for New Year’s Eve? None, as ever! We usually organise a lastminute dinner with my mother-in-law in Wales. Then run round the house at midnight, banging pots and pans, and end up dancing round the sitting room to records with the kids till 1pm. Always a great night.

What are your hopes for 2018?

Having just moved to Wales, my main priority is settling my children into their new schools.

I’m still Lulu Guinness’s brand ambassador, too, so I look forward to lots of glamorous parties for her. Her new clothing line is deliciously chic – I’m really enjoying wearing it out and about, and showing it all off!

Marissa HERMER

TV personality, author and mother to Max, Jake and Sadie What do you love most about Christmas?

I adore the lazy mornings in pyjamas, afternoon games of UNO and Candyland, and evenings filled with family and food.

What are your plans this year?

We will be in Mexico for the run-up to Christmas, and then we will be enjoying our first Christmas Day in LA, where we relocated to earlier this year.

Where do you shop for your children’s Christmas presents?

We’re still in the UK a lot, so I love visiting Rachel Riley for the children’s outfits and pyjamas, the Natural History Museum always has interesting educational toys, and online store Orchard Toys has great games.

And for your food, tree and decorations?

Now we’re in LA, I’ll be decorating our tree with childhood tree decorations that have been stored at my mum’s house for the last decade. And though we will probably get our produce from Brentwood Farmers’ Market, we will, of course, be ordering our traditional Fortnum & Mason hamper with all my favourite British goodies.

Will you be over in London at some point during the festive period?

We are going to be in London early December, so we’re excited to celebrate the holidays with friends and family. We’ve booked our tickets for Christmas at Kew Gardens, a matinee performance of The Snowman at Sadler’s Wells, a morning at Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, and an afternoon at the Pottery Café painting our annual holiday mugs and plates for godparents and grandparents.

And what’s on your wish list for yourself?

I’d love a few days to go on a retreat – I keep hearing amazing things about We Care, which is a mind and body detox spa in California.

What are your hopes for 2018?

This year has been filled with lots of family time, adventure, and discovery – so more of the same would be amazing!

Louise ROE

TV presenter, model and mother-to-be What do you love most about Christmas?

I am a huge, huge Christmas fan! I think I love the feeling of seeing decorations go up, all the good movies on TV, and generally slowing down even more than I love the actual day!

What are your plans this year?

For the first time, my husband Mackenzie and I are hosting Christmas at our home in LA. We have lived here for eight years and gone back to England each time, but this year our families are coming to us, which is extremely lucky, because I’ll be eight-and-a-half months’ pregnant! I’m very bad at cooking so I’ll let the mums take over that, but I do love decorating and creating a pretty table setting.

Your baby is due in January – how are you feeling about it all?

Very excited! I have so many friends with babies and they have all been amazing with advice. It has been a busy lead up to Christmas with travel and work, so I’m looking forward to resting up a bit now.

Will you be making the most of your last Christmas as a couple, before baby arrives?

Absolutely. Things will all change from now on, so I definitely want to enjoy the time (and sleep, and quiet!) that we have now. We are planning a little road trip to Santa Barbara before Christmas too, as a babymoon.

Where will you be shopping for your Christmas food, tree and decorations?

I’m really excited to pick out a real Christmas tree this year – we never had a real one growing up, and the scent is delicious.

Anthropologie does the most beautiful table decorations, and I’m obsessed with Ralph

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 73

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Lauren’s Holiday Christmas candle – I’ll be burning that non-stop! I love to make a wreath for the front door, too. This time around I’m attempting one made from dried sliced oranges and peppers, so we will see how that turns out! As for food, there’s an incredible supermarket here in LA called Bristol Farms (it’s basically the closest thing to M&S I can find), so we will get all our nibbles from there.

What have you enjoyed doing in London over the festive season in previous years?

I always had a Christmas trip to the ballet with mum, that’s our special day out and I love it. We have lots of walks in the nearby woods, and lots of dinner parties with friends, catching up. I try to avoid the crazy crowded shopping areas of London over Christmas, but there is something special about seeing Bond

h t a e r w a g n i t p m e t t a I’l l be s e g n a or d e c i sl d e i r d made fr�m s! oe g t a h t ow h e se l ’l e –w

Street or Sloane Square all lit up with colourful twinkling lights.

What’s on your present wish list for yourself this year?

Mostly baby things. Although I did just see a pair of thigh-high velvet boots from Yves Saint Laurent… I hope Mackenzie is reading this!

Finally, what are your hopes for 2018?

To have a happy, healthy little newborn in the house, who sleeps a bit. Oh, and I’m very excited about the thought of cocktails again!

Jools OLIVER

Designer of Little Bird at Mothercare, wife of Jamie and mother to Poppy Honey, Daisy Boo, Petal Blossom, Buddy Bear and River Rocket What do you love most about Christmas?

I love it all! Buying and making gifts, decorating the house and tree, spending time with family, playing silly games, roast turkey and potatoes and all the trimmings, I could go on and on…

What are your plans this year?

It doesn’t change much from year to year, we just get slightly larger as a family. We will be at home in Essex with everyone.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK;

Where do you like to shop for your children’s presents?

I love to find independent shops for unique toys and gifts, there are lots where we live in North London. And now the older girls are teenagers, I’ll no doubt be popping into Topshop!

socialising with friends, or the girls do. They have a much more exciting social life than Jamie and I do these days!

And for your tree decorations?

I have bought so many decorations over the years but I do like to add something new to the tree each year to see if anyone can spot it. I love Christmas markets, especially the small village ones, there’s a lovely one near our place in Essex. And we always make some pretty DIY decorations at home each year – it’s a tradition, the children love it, even the two older girls.

And what’s on your wish list for yourself?

I think I’m really easy to buy for. Jamie knows what I like, although if he buys me clothes it’s always something casual like a vintage sweatshirt or (another) pair of Converse. The children always make me something that I can treasure forever – there’s nothing better than a handmade gift from them.

What do you do in London during the festive season?

We actually don’t spend too much time in London over the festive period, but when we do, we mostly spend our time

What are your hopes for 2018?

For the children not to get any bigger! I just hope my family continues to be happy and healthy – with lots of laughter!

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 75

Raising the barre

Tara-Brigit te Bhavnani, A FIR ST ARTIST WITH TH E ROYAL BALLE T, TALKS TO K ATE FR EU D ABOUT H ER PR EGNANC Y, LOVE OF DANCE AN D H OPE S FOR MOTH ER H OOD PHOTOGR APHY: H ELEN MAR SDEN ST YLING: KELLIE DAGGE T T HAIR & MAKE UP: JESS BUCKLEY

F

or most women in the third trimester of pregnancy, the thought of hauling their well-cushioned behind from the sofa is effort enough, but for Tara-Brigitte Bhavnani, this couldn’t be further from the case.

Watching the stunning Royal Ballet dancer elegantly posing en pointe for our photographer, the grandeur of Somerset House as our backdrop, it’s easy to forget in fact that she is 29 weeks’ pregnant. Though according to Tara, she’s far from her ballet best. “As dancers, we spend our lives trying to control every single muscle in our bodies into making these perfect lines and precise movements, while making it look effortless,” she says.

“But I’ve completely lost control now! It can feel so alien to try and do a step that once came so naturally to me, but I’m learning to let go.”

Tara was born and raised in Canada, but has been based in the UK for more than 15 years, performing as a First Artist everywhere from Covent Garden to the other side of the world. She now also teaches new dancers in the company, though since her pregnancy began, she has had

76 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

to slow right down.

“It wasn’t easy at the beginning. Tiredness soon turned to nausea, which became terrible morning sickness,” she explains. “In fact, the first day I was physically sick, I was at work, dancing on stage at the Royal Opera House! The entire Royal Ballet company was there, as well as the make-up team, wardrobe department, all the stage crew, ballet staff, full orchestra and even some photographers.

I was doing a principal role at the time as well, so I didn’t have anyone to hide behind, nor could I discreetly run off stage. The only good thing was that it was only a dress rehearsal, so luckily there was no audience,” she says.

“From then on it only got worse and I haven’t been able to perform since that time. Initially because of the sickness and then later because no costume would fit!”

But Tara is philosophical about the changes to her body and has learnt to go with it. “I lost nearly 5kg in my first trimester so I was very weak, but once I could eat again, my weight has steadily increased, and every week it has become more difficult to dance,” she says. “The reality

Dress, ÂŁ515, Kalita at Nine in the Mirror. Necklace, ÂŁ6.99, H&M.

I’VE LEARNED TO LET GO, AND LET MY BODY DO WHAT IT NEEDS TO DO 78 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOT ON LOCATION AT SOMERSET HOUSE, SOMERSETHOUSE.ORG.UK

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80 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOT ON LOCATION AT SOMERSET HOUSE, SOMERSETHOUSE.ORG.UK

THIS PAGE: Dress, £530, 3.1 Phillip Lim at Nine in the Mirror. Necklace, £14.99, H&M. RIGHT PAGE: Dress, £185, Needle & Thread at Harrods.

Necklace, £12, Next.

80 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

is there’s nothing I can do about it, but I’ve learned to let it go, and let my body do what it needs to do. I’m now completely fascinated by all the changes that are taking place to accommodate for this little person inside me. I’ve had to slow down the pace of some exercises and limit myself. And obviously, the bump does get in the way with certain movements, so I’ve been modifying a lot.”

But Tara isn’t one to just kick back and relax, and is already looking forward to getting back to proper training post-birth. “I will start with some form of gentle movement as soon as I can I think. I don’t feel myself when I’ve been sitting down all day – I’m active by nature so as soon as the doctor allows, I hope to get into a routine that will safely get me back dancing.”

I ask Tara, now she knows she’s having a little girl, would she love her to dance one day, too? “Only if she also loves it!” she says.

“It’s a very tough job – you need to have the drive, the discipline, the passion and very thick skin. I must confess, though, I have already bought a couple of baby tutus, I couldn’t resist!” For now, Tara is just looking forward to Christmas. “Normally I would be performing in the Nutcracker from December to January, including Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, so it will be a real treat to be able to fully enjoy the festive season with my family and the new baby. I can’t wait!”

Tara-Brigitte is a First Artist with the Royal Ballet. She also vlogs on her YouTube channel Brigitte Ballet about life as a dancer going through pregnancy.

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SPOTLIGHT ON

Each stage of the bear-making process is carried out by a skilled specialist

Sarah Holmes has been running the factory with her sisters since 2011

Behind the brand

MERRYTHOUGHT Becky Dickinson MEETS TH E SISTER S WH O SAVED TH E U K’S L AST R EMAINING TEDDY BE AR FAC TORY

82 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

Merrythought bears continue to delight a generation of children and adults alike

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 83

SPOTLIGHT ON

mid the sea of all-singing, all-dancing toys this Christmas, there is one gift that has remained unchanged for decades. Cuddly, charming and oh-so British, the traditional teddy bear has been a feature of nurseries and bedrooms for generations, with a timeless appeal that bridges childhood and nostalgia.

Yet despite the flurry of cuddly toys that adorn shelves at this time of year, there is only one remaining teddy bear factory in the UK. Merrythought was established in Ironbridge, Shropshire, in 1930, and grew into a thriving business specialising in beautiful handmade teddies. But in the 1970s fortunes changed, when competition from China and the Far East saw the soft toy market flooded with cheap imports. Other traditional British toy makers folded, but Merrythought fought to stay afloat by refocusing solely on high-end products, made from the finest materials.

Yet the factory faced further uncertainty in 2011, following the sudden death of Oliver Holmes – the third generation of the family to run the business. Fortunately, his daughters stepped in – almost overnight – to take the helm. Today the company is run by Sarah and Hannah Holmes. Sarah was living in London when her father passed away, but gave up a career in marketing to step in, as there was literally no one else to open the factory gates.

She admits it was a baptism of fire and there have been some challenging times. But it’s a testament to the sisters that Merrythought is once again a unique and thriving business.

Hannah is currently on maternity leave, having recently given birth to her first child, Oscar. And Sarah and Hannah’s younger sister, Sophie, helps out with the social media.

Sarah attributes Merrythought’s success and survival to the fact the company has never compromised on quality. The teddy-making process has remained almost unchanged for 87 years.

A

ctor y thought fa The Merry 30 19 in opened

84 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

EACH ICONIC BEAR IS HANDMADE FROM SCRATCH, USING NATURAL MOHAIR OR ALPACA PLUSH Each iconic bear is handmade from scratch, using natural mohair (from the Angora goat) or sometimes alpaca plush, too. First, the pieces are cut out, before being sewn together inside out. Next the eyes are added, and the limbs stuffed and jointed. The limbs are then attached to the body, which is stuffed and sewn up at the back. It’s a delicate, labourintensive process. Each stage is carried out by a highly-skilled specialist and there is a sense of magic as each creation takes shape, especially during the festive build up.

“No two teddy bears are identical,” says Sarah. “The nose and the smile are handembroidered on at the end, and it’s this that really brings the bear to life. He is then brushed, combed and trimmed, before a ribbon or accessory is added to finish.”

All this doesn’t come cheap. Prices start

from around £60 for a classic 10-inch bear, rising into the hundreds, even thousands, for a giant display teddy. But these bears are built to last – a toy and heirloom combined.

“We appreciate a Merrythought bear is an investment,” says Sarah. “But we think they are rather special. They have a place in both childhood and English heritage.”

Sarah also believes parents are increasingly turning away from mass-produced toys in search of those from a more upstanding background, offering substance and longevity.

Merrythought branded bears are sold in Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and other high-end stores, and the company supplies bespoke bears for luxury brands like the The Dorchester, too. Sarah says they were also thrilled to be asked to make the official teddy bear for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

SPOTLIGHT ON

A personalised bear makes a treasured gift

It all starts with a sketch

Top

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PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/MERRYTHOUGHTBEARS; HARRY GLADWIN; BARRY MACDONALD

The factory’s shop is open seven days a week, and features a number of exclusives

Unsurprisingly, the bears have long been a favourite with the royal family – the Queen was presented with a Merrythought corgi in the 1950s, and more recently there have been specially produced commemorative bears to celebrate the births of Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

Merrythought bears have also made silent appearances in television dramas, including Peaky Blinders and Downton Abbey. Look closely, and you may notice Sybbie Branson, daughter of Tom Branson and Lady Sybil, is never far from her beloved stuffed toy rabbit which is, of course, a Merrythought.

As well as producing high-quality toys which meet CE safety standards, Merrythought also makes collectors’ bears. These are produced in limited editions to guarantee their rarity and

are especially popular in Japan.

For the first time in 30 years, the firm has expanded its range of animals to include a vintage-style dog and cat, known as Digby Dog and Coco Cat. There has also been a recent growth in demand for personalised bears. In response, Merrythought now offers custommade bears with an embroidered name on the paw and a choice of ribbon or accessory, for that perfect new-baby gift or treasured Christmas present.

A soft touch, a nose for business, and an unflinching devotion to quality have helped Merrythought overcome some tough times and competition. It seems the hard work has paid off; the last teddy bear manufacturer in England looks set to stay, and Sarah has her sights firmly set on the future, with plans for more exports in 2018.

With a team of elves behind her, she says the final reward is seeing the happiness these bears bring to their owners. “The feedback we get from customers is fantastic,” she says.

They may cost a little more than your average soft toy, but then a Merrythought teddy is a bear for life, not just for Christmas.

Digby Dog £69

Harrods of London bear £160

HM Queen Elizabeth II bear £259

2017 Christmas bear £169 Little Bert bear £95 babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 85

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The buggy can be used from birth with a bassinet

CAR COMFORTS The Dualfix i-Size from Britax has received a plush makeover alongside advances in comfort and design, making it the brand’s most premium offering to date. We adore this Sand Marble colourway. £430, britax.co.uk

NEXT YEAR SEES THE LAUNCH OF THE FIRST EVER PUSHCHAIR DESIGNED TO GENERATE ENERGY SIMPLY

BY WALKING IT. WITH ‘THE MAYFAIR’, PARENTS CAN CHARGE THEIR PHONES, WARM UP MILK BOTTLES AND PROVIDE BABY WITH A HEATED SEAT, ALL FROM A TOTALLY GREEN SOURCE. STAY TUNED! HEE-TEE.COM

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 87

TOT GEAR

A ROYAL RIDE

To celebrate Silver Cross’s 140th anniversary, the iconic British brand has released a new edition of its Balmoral pram. Only 140 models of the anniversary edition with matching Baby Balmoral dolls’ pram, have been made. The brand has collaborated with Yorkshire’s long-standing luxury wool manufacturer Abraham Moon & Sons to design the exclusive tweed for each pram’s hood and apron. £2,500; dolls’ pram and matching changing bag, £750. silvercrossbaby.com

LAST YEAR’S BABY KIT-BUYING TRENDS HAVE REVEALED THAT CONVENIENCE WAS THE BIGGEST PRIORITY FOR NEW PARENTS, AS ALL-IN-ONE TRAVEL SYSTEMS ACCOUNTED FOR 70% OF ALL PUSHCHAIR SALES. STATS ALSO SHOWED THAT PARENTS SPENT AN AVERAGE OF £300 ON THE BUY. MOTHERCARE.COM

ALL IN A SPIN The super-lightweight Raspberry pushchair has had a London-friendly upgrade

CITY SLICKER Having launched in 2014, iCandy’s lightweight stroller has enjoyed a makeover. The tagline for the new Raspberry is ‘Own The City’ – and we can confirm the redesigned wheels and puncture-proof PU tyres will make navigating the capital a breeze. The new pushchair also features iCandy elevators, and includes the option of a carrycot. £550; carrycot, £180. icandyworld.com

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Graco’s latest innovation, the Turn2Reach car seat, makes getting kids in and out of the car a doddle.

As well as the 360° rotation, the seat has three positions to grow with your child, while the lieflat bed is brilliant for premature babies. Suitable from birth to four years. £299, gracobaby.com

REVIEW

TOTGEAR

IN SE ARCH OF ADVENTU R E, DAD OF TH R EE Ben Finney CLOCKS U P SOM E MILE S WITH TH E OUT ‘ N ’ ABOUT NIPPER DOU BLE

O

f our three girls – all of whom are under five years old – the youngest can’t yet walk, the eldest usually refuses and the middle one is a toddler so it’s barely worth the effort. Given these logistics, it is impossible to imagine life without wheels.

There’s a bewildering selection of off-road buggies out there, catering for dads who like to imagine they could one day take their toddlers to Everest base camp. We struggle to reach the end of the road most weekends – but still, it’s important to look the part. Cue the Out ‘n’ About Nipper Double V4, a great addition to our fleet of child-carrying devices.

Perfect for city strolls and off-roading alike

GOOD LOOKING? In reality, all double buggies can look a bit cumbersome, but if you have no choice then this is a great option. And you don’t have to be quite as brave as us with the Mojito Green hue, there are a few colour options to choose from, including black and grey.

PRACTICALITY & DRIVABILITY The Nipper couldn’t be more ideal for offroad walks if it tried – enormous wheels, and the kind of suspension that wouldn’t look out of place on a downhill mountain bike. I’m a bit wary of three-wheelers – having tipped a couple over in my time – but this one is surprisingly stable, wherever you take it.

In fact, the handling is this buggy’s big selling point. It turns on a sixpence, and hops off kerbs with barely a bump. Even our two-yearold can push it around without too much

trouble. It drives like a dream.

For a stripped-back adventure wagon, it has a surprising amount of features. No shopping basket underneath (although you can buy one as an extra if needed) – but there are innovative pouches on the back of each seat instead. There’s more easy-access storage in zipped pockets along each side of the sun hoods, too, perfect for snacks on the go.

My only gripe is the five-point harness: it’s fiddly and you can only strap the kids in if you attach both the shoulder and waist straps.

With a reluctant child, this means having to actually put down your flat white and use both hands.

COMFORT

The Nipper Double is the sturdiest three-wheeler Ben has come across

For a double buggy, the Nipper is pretty slim, which means the seats are narrow – but that just means less wriggling around. The seats recline all the way back, and it comes with a mosquito net that you can also use to cordon off any children due for a sleep. It’s also pretty easy to open up and fold down.

The Nipper Double can also be used from birth with the carrycot addition

THE VERDICT Rugged enough to satisfy your inner Ranulph Fiennes, but practical too, the Nipper Double is a saviour. It’ll still likely spend most of its life travelling to the supermarket and back, but at least every time you return home, you can pretend you’ve survived another epic adventure.

From £524.95, outnabout.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 89

Quality childcare for under 5’s in Battersea and Wandsworth

Visit our brand new nursery in Battersea or take a look around our new look nursery in Wandsworth to see how happy your child could be in our care Visit battersea.busybees.com or call 020 7720 9336 to arrange your visit today

Visit wandsworth.busybees.com or call 020 8877 1135 to arrange your visit today

The Battersea Nursery & Pre-School, Riverlight, Nine Elms Lane, Battersea, London, SW8 5BP

The Wandsworth Nursery & Pre-School, Dolphin House, Riverside West, Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, SW18 1DE

BABY TALK

The children’s author and soon-to-be father of two talks parenthood, art lessons and seeking advice from dad How has fatherhood been treating you?

Great! We’ve been very fortunate with how good-natured our son [Harland] is. My wife and I are pretty laid back people, so I like to think he gets it from us. He’s just turned two – he’s big for two, though. He’s probably more the size of several four year olds…

The boys take on New York

How have things changed for you since becoming a dad?

It’s been a total paradigm shift. The hours in which you work obviously change – I feel quite strongly that I want to be there for dinner and bedtimes, but evenings and weekends used to be my most productive hours. A lot of things haven’t changed as much as I thought they would, though. I kind of thought [fatherhood] would be all constant turmoil and no social life, but that’s not really true. The things that I want to do have changed, that’s probably the best way to describe it.

INTERVIEW: DANIELLE WILKINS. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/OLIVERJEFFERS

What kind of dad would you say you are?

Hands-on in a sense that [Harland] doesn’t fall down the stairs or stick his fingers in a plug socket, but I like to think I’m pretty relaxed.

Free rein at the Hay Festival

Three will become four in January

What has fatherhood taught you?

When we found out we were having a baby, I remember asking my dad, ‘Come on, lay it on me, what’s the secret?’ [Jeffers is one of four boys]. He shook his head and said, ‘I don’t know. Luck maybe?’ Then he thought about it and said he thought perhaps it’s because he was consistent. We always knew where we stood with him. The world is a topsyturvy, upside-down place, so if you can offer consistency as a parent, that’s probably the most important thing. I try to do that.

You’ve dedicated your new book to Harland.

How did you come up with the idea?

It started with me semi-humorously giving

Harland has been given lots of Jellycat toys but it’s a Marks & Spencer elephant that he loves. Even now, if he trips and falls, it’s his elephant that he asks for!

The Brooklyn-based family stay true to their Belfast roots

THE DAD DIARY Oliver Jeffers “I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT…”

Oliver with newborn Harland

Here We Are was inspired by Harland

him a tour of our apartment when he was just two days old. Then the novelty of that led me to realise I had to introduce him to everything. I suddenly had this awareness that he didn’t know anything at all and it was our responsibility to educate him. Despite the strange political climate of the world at the moment, and how much divisiveness there is, I tried to remain as positive as possible when explaining things to him, and many of those views filtered down into this book.

Were there any books from your childhood that were special to you?

I wasn’t a big ‘book kid’, to be honest. I liked The Bad-Tempered Ladybird by Eric Carle – particularly the last spread where the ladybird picks a fight with a whale. That sense of scale on the page – the whale looks so big because of the existence of this ladybird. I learned an art lesson that day.

How will you be spending Christmas?

Waiting with my bags packed by the door!

My wife Suzanne is due on New Year’s Eve, so we won’t be straying too far. After that, I’ll be taking some time off to spend with the baby – take my foot off the accelerator for a bit.

Here We Are (£14.99, Harper Collins Children’s Books) is out 14 November

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FAMILY

Mind the gap IS TH ER E R E ALLY AN IDE AL AGE DIFFER EN CE FOR YOU R CHILDR EN , AN D HOW DO YOU KEEP TH EM CLOSE IF TH EY AR E YE AR S APART ? Rhiane Kirkby FIN DS OUT

always had a plan of when things were going to happen in life – not a concrete plan, but a rough timetable of events. Of course, my schedule was hit with a large dose of reality when I hadn’t met my husband at 29 or had a child by the age of 31.

As most parents know, conception and fertility aren’t really things you can timetable.

You can try, but nature tends to want to play a part in mapping out these areas of your life.

Some couples find it impossible to conceive the first time around, but get a shock when it happens almost instantaneously with baby number two. And then there are people who, for many different reasons, end up having a much bigger gap between their offspring.

“Mine are 12 and four,” says Gabriela. “It was our choice, but it’s hard as they want to do such different things. The younger one idolises his older brother, but the older one finds it annoying to have a ‘baby’ following him around.”

Friends Stephanie and Wenting both have a 20-month gap between their children. “My husband and I didn’t plan it that way,” says Stephanie. “In fact, it was quite a shock, but it’s worked out as they enjoy the same things.”

“I can see the benefits of having them close together,” adds Wenting. “Logistically it’s easier and the baby gear gets reused very quickly.”

The Journal of the American Medical Association analysed data from over 11 million pregnancies worldwide and concluded that, from a biological point of view, the perfect gap is 18 to 59 months between pregnancies, while the latest medical research says the risk of premature birth is at its lowest when there’s

I

a gap of between 18 and 23 months. The study by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists found that women who conceive less than 11 months after giving birth, or conversely wait three years or more, are more likely to go into labour early.

Gynaecologists and midwives agree a gap of around two years between pregnancies is also ideal when it comes to the mother’s physical and mental health, giving the body time to replenish the nutrients lost during the previous pregnancy and breastfeeding, and the mind time to prepare for a new addition.

Mothers also experience a better recovery at this time, because their bodies are best placed to deal with pregnancy and labour.

eldest child, before your second is born.”

It’s also fair to say that, given a two-year age gap is most common, it’s likely the friends you made the first time around will also be having more children. You’ll therefore be able to share the experience with people you’re close to, rather than having to make a new group of friends. This is something which can be hugely beneficial to parents trying to simultaneously juggle the demands of a newborn with those of a tantrumming toddler!

But, as with anything, there are downsides of having such a small gap between children.

Firstly, there’s the sleep deprivation, as it’s common for the older child to drop naps or regress with their sleeping when a new sibling comes along. And no matter how well-behaved, a newborn and a toddler are both exceptionally demanding. It’s also easy to underestimate the physical and mental impact of being pregnant, breastfeeding and going through multiple labours in a short space of time. Despite this, evidence suggests that in London, many parents are choosing to have around an 18- to 20-month gap, partly because mums are generally older.

While the sociological and medical facts speak for themselves, experts agree that the concept of an ideal gap between children is highly subjective. They stress that a family’s unique set of circumstances must be taken into consideration, and adding that pressure can make parents less likely to achieve their ‘perfect gap’. So whatever you end up with, just be thankful you’ve got healthy children, and provided you share your attention equally, you’ll have a happy family regardless.

A TWO-YEAR GAP BETWEEN PREGNANCIES GIVES YOUR BODY TIME TO REPLENISH

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Of course, there’s more to this than just science. Professor Sybil Hart, who studies sibling rivalry, believes that, in most cases, an age gap of two to three years is ideal.

“Families are more cohesive if everyone can participate in the same activities,” she explains.

“Children can go to the same school, watch the same films and holiday at the same time.

Siblings are more likely to be companions and parents can compress the number of years they devote to childrearing.”

Authors Simone Cave and Dr Caroline Fertleman agree, adding, “Even though your children will be close enough in age to want to play with each other, you’ll still have had the chance to enjoy the early milestones with your

FAMILY

HOW TO KEEP SIBLINGS CLOSE Plan family outings that are suitable for all ages – think trips to the beach or a park, rather than a toddler-friendly soft play centre.

Give them their space and oneon-one time with each parent.

Involve older children in caring for their younger siblings – make them feel grown up and responsible.

Don’t allow teenagers to be ‘too cool’ to spend time with their brothers and sisters.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Make sure each child socialises with children their own age, too.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 93

A BRAND NEW MUST-HAVE GUIDE FOR MOTHERS AND MUMS-TO-BE Taking you from the day you discover you’re expecting, through regnanc irt t e ear da s o arent ood to a s first irt da The Ultimate Baby Book will be on hand every step of the way…

You can buy The Ultimate Baby Book for £5.99 at all good newsagents and supermarkets nationwide, and online at chelseamagazines.com/shop

PICK UP YOUR COPY NOW!

1

DECORATE Finishing touches for your tables

2

BABY PARTIES Carole Middleton

Faux eucalyptus wreath £30, johnlewis.com

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3

5

Christmas Confetti balloons (pack of six) £2.49, partypieces.co.uk

Crackers (pack of six) £13.99, partypieces.co.uk

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elebrating Christmas with a new addition to the family is an immensely special time. And while your new baby might not remember much of the festivities at this age, this is the perfect time to start new family traditions for the Christmases to come, and the memories you start now will live through your photographs.

Each year, why not make an ornament, stocking or bauble for the tree? Stock up on DIY crafts and glitter, and get messy with your toddler, or look out for pre-made designs that can be personalised.

Personalised wooden coasters (set of four) £19, ellieellie.co.uk

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1. Oeuf NYC crown £45, scandimini.com 2. Cotton dress and bloomers set £64, lacoquetakids.com 3. Cashmere romper £42, olivierbaby.com 4. Waddler alpaca wool sweater £70, rosesandthestars.com 5. Noé & Zoë dress £50, libertylondon.com 6. Foque sweater and shorts set £62, childrensalon.com 7. Fleece bodysuit £58, molo.com 8. Leather booties £22, bobux.co.uk

Napkins (pack of 20) £5.99, partypieces.co.uk

Another fun tradition is to handmake your own Christmas cards using baby’s painted handprints. Just be sure to add the date to the back of the card, and make a couple of extras to keep as memories for yourself.

Along with all those toys, why not give baby an heirloom gift that can be passed down one day. Snowglobes, teddy bears and keepsake boxes are all good options.

Finally, don’t forget to leave evidence of Father Christmas’s visit. Get creative with fake snow or sooty footprints, and leave half-eaten treats, like mince pies and carrots, next to the tree. Don’t forget to capture their wonderous little faces on camera!

Wooden LED light £24.99, partypieces.co.uk

Baby’s First Christmas letter £20.95, polarpost.co.uk

Personalised stocking £15.50, bundlesof joy-shopping.co.uk

OUT AND ABOUT

BABIES and the

BIG SCREEN AS TH E CAPITAL SEE S A RISE IN BABY-FRIEN DLY CIN EMAS, Leila Latif ROU N DS U P TH E BE ST

s a new parent, it’s easy for once-avid cinephiles to forgo the idea of seeing the latest releases and settle into endless reruns of Homes Under The Hammer instead. After all, once baby is bathed and in bed, the idea of a two-hour showing at 9.30pm sounds less than appealing for tired parents.

But what you might not realise is that the first year of your child’s life could potentially be jam-packed with wonderful trips to the big screen, even if all the pair of you want to do is snuggle up and nap. London is filled with amazing baby-friendly screenings that even the most flustered new mums can settle into.

Unless you are lucky enough to be sitting front-row at the Lexi in Kensal Rise, eschew a pram (if you can) in favour of a carrier or car seat, and free up your arms with a backpack.

Bring a couple of swaddles and blankets to create a cosy space for baby, and stock up on drinks and snacks on arrival so you can use this as an opportunity to eat your lunch.

Most importantly, going to the cinema is a great way to get you out of the house, even on rainy days, and make great daytime dates with dad or friends. With that in mind, here are our picks in the capital.

A

The Electric

Mondays, 11am This Notting Hill institution is now owned by private members’ club Soho House, which has lovingly restored The Electric it to its former glory with leather armchairs and two-seater sofas, complete with cashmere blankets and footrests. Park your pram at the end of the row or at the back of the auditorium and bed down with baby while drinks and

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Barbican

pastries are brought to your seat from the bar. electriccinema.co.uk/portobello

Lexi Cinema

Mondays, 11am Going to the Lexi in Kensal Rise feels a bit like visiting an old friend’s house. The popcorn is in bowls, the tea is in mugs and the ticket prices are low, with all profits going to charity. Above the screen there is a gorgeous Bruce Munro

light installation, which you may find has a hypnotic effect on your little one. Be sure to arrive early, as the prized seats are right at the front where you can park you pram by your feet. thelexicinema.co.uk

Barbican

Mondays, 11.30am Nestled inside the sprawling concrete building,

OUT AND ABOUT

CODE OF CONDUCT If baby cries, you have a minute to try and sate her in your seat, at which point you should go to the end of the aisle and jiggle her. You then have another three minutes, at which point you should head into the lobby.

Noisy snacks are encouraged.

You deserve nachos, you’ve just had a baby.

Preferably, nappy changes should happen in the bathroom, but during exceptionally interesting arts o t e fi a uic et change is permissible.

It’s fine to keep your phone on (on a dim setting) as chances are you will get distracted, miss critical movie moments and need to check the Wikipedia plot summary to keep up.

PHOTOGRAPHY: REX IMAGES/VIEW PICTURES; REX IMAGES/BLAKE EZRA; SOHO HOUSE ELECTRIC CINEMA

No shushing, sighing or rolling of eyes – we are all in this together!

the cinema at the Barbican is surprisingly cosy.

Prams are left at the back of the screening room, with plush chairs and excellent coffee and snacks to hand (if you’re feeling peckish, the crêpes are just the ticket). Lighting is left on, too, so there’s no risk of falling asleep. barbican.org.uk

Rio Cinema

Thursdays, from 10.30am Set in a beautiful art deco building on Dalston’s Kingsland High Street, this community cinema may not be the most luxurious screening experience in London, but it is definitely one of the best. The bar offers exceptional coffee and artisan snacks – think chicken-salt popcorn, onion bhajis with a mint yoghurt dip and salted caramel, miso and chocolate ice cream sandwiches. It’s one to pack light for if you can, as prams are left in the lobby and you’ll need a free hand for all

that snacking…riocinema.org.uk

Olympic Studios

Tuesdays, 11am Set in the heart of Barnes, Olympic Studios offers a sophisticated cinema experience. Prams are left by the door, so be sure to bring a blanket to curl up with your little Everyman Maida Vale one in the roomy, reclining seats.

It’s a perfect place to meet up with other parents, as the adjoining restaurant with a hot drink and a slice of cake, brought is bright and spacious enough for even the to your sofa-side table. Prams are parked at bulkiest pushchairs, and offers an indulgent the end of the row, so bring a blanket to place seasonal menu. olympiccinema.co.uk your slumbering baby on. These mornings are very popular, so be sure to book in advance. everymancinema.com/maida-vale Everyman Maida Vale Wednesdays, from 10am Honourable mentions: Everyman This branch of the Everyman cinema is worth Hampstead; Everyman Belsize Park; Greenwich the admission just for the chance to curl up Picturehouse; The Phoenix, Chelsea. with baby on the lovely sofas. Tickets come

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PROMOTION

SLEEP EASY The perfect gift for a new family, the BabyHub SleepSpace travel cot converts into a tepee.

£169, babyhubshop.com

PERSONAL TOUCH

LITTLE LIBRARY

This beautiful charm is engraved with your baby’s actual-sized fingerprint and date of birth.

Introduce your little one to the world’s iconic landmarks and sights with this sophisticated collection of board books by Jane Foster.

Charm, from £165; chain, £40, philippaherbert.co.uk

£6.99 each, amazon.com

NURSING NATURALLY

THE GIFT THAT GIVES BACK

Award-winning Ollie the Owl is a 2017 Christmas must have. He is a sleep aid with built-in CrySensor.

The Medela Freestyle Breast Pump features 2-Phase Expression technology for more comfortable and efficient expressing.

Made from 100% organic cotton, every Darlo sleep suit sold feeds one child in India their school meals for a week.

£34.99, gro-store.com

£329.99, medela.com/breastfeeding

£20, darloethicalbabywear.com

HE’S A HOOT

TOASTY TOES

MADE FOR MUM

OH-SEW CUTE

Dotty Robin’s hand-embroidered, pure linen baby shoes feature a cosy fleece lining. In sizes three months to two years.

Awarded for its design and innovation, the FEED® 3-in-1 is an essential item from bump and beyond.

Exclusively created for Sophie la Girafe, use Sophie’s Hat Knitting Kit to knit your baby this signature design using pure merino wool.

£16, dottyrobin.com

£45, elderfloweranddelilah.com

£24.99, stitchandstory.com

KEEP THEM COSY

BATHTIME BLISS

SLEEPY TIME

This beautiful hand-knitted overall in merino wool

by Marlon and Little Friends is made in France.

Enjoy a versatile selection of gentle, handmade aromatherapy formulations with the Nurture Baby Set.

Shop award-winning sleeping bags that regulate body temperature for the perfect night’s sleep.

From £70, marlonandlittlefriends.com

£59.99, penny-price.com

£79, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

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PROMOTION

COTTON CARDI

NURSERY MAGIC

SHOES ON POINTE

This beautiful hand-knitted cardigan is from the Bebe Bombom Mini collection.

This ethereal Celeste & Fae rocking unicorn is sure to answer every little girl’s Christmas wish.

These sweet, soft leather shoes are available in Vintage Pink, Gold-Rush and Rock-Star.

£45, bebebombom.com

£99.95, littlebirdtoldme.co.uk

£26, bohemiascloset.co.uk

Bringing you the very best gifts to put under the tree

TRENDY TEETHER This sensorial silicone toy will soothe baby’s gums while helping develop their sense of touch and hand-eye coordination.

£12, bunnyandbella.com

BABIES WHO LUNCH Keep your little one happy when out and about with this adorable snack box and cutlery set.

£18, beatrixpottergiftsbyenesco.co.uk

CULT CLASSIC

Baby’s wish list A new arrival makes Christmas extra special, and these thoughtful gift ideas will help to make it one you truly remember

HEART ON YOUR SLEEVE

LOVE LETTERS

Get the beloved lift-the-flap book Dear Zoo in this special 35th anniversary gift edition.

This personalised Hammered Open Bangle by Merci Maman is hand-engraved with a message of your choice and delivered in a gift box.

Choose a handmade wooden letter in either pink or blue, with a personalised name tag.

£12.99, dearzooandfriends.com

From £59, mercimamanboutique.com

£8, arbellodesigns.etsy.com

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PROMOTION

STYLE SUIT

ON THE BALL

IT’S IN THE BAG

These long-sleeved rompers have wooden button fastenings and are made from a soft, thick cotton.

Both a football table and a feature-packed electronic activity centre, this teaches first letters, numbers, shapes, colours and new words too!

This personalised sack is a great way to store presents, and is perfect for toy storage after.

From £25, oliviagraekids.bigcartel.com

£34.99, smythstoys.com

£14.95, henryfredandfelicity.co.uk

GIFT OF THE GRUFFALO Young children will love this Gruffalo gift set, complete with a mini edition of the classic story and a cuddly Gruffalo toy plush.

SLEEP TIGHT

SHOW YOUR STRIPES

Shop luxury baby and toddler bedding handmade in Canada with specially curated fabric.

Dotty Dungarees are made for little adventurers…

£12.99, gruffalo.com

¤47, lespetitsloulous.com

SHAKE IT AND SEE

Dungarees, £41; Ochre Stripe Top, £14, dottydungarees.com

This personalised snow globe, featuring a mini gingerbread house, makes the perfect handmade, personalised gift for baby.

PRINTS CHARMING

SEASIDE CHIC

Made with organic cotton muslin, this sweet robin comforter is the perfect stocking filler for baby.

Discover eco-friendly swimwear made using chlorine-resistant materials with UPF50+ protection.

£31.57, kikkaandtikka.etsy.com

£14, littlebluenest.com

£32, folpetto.com

TAKE NOTE

SUPER SIPS

A unique ornament to capture family memories – write a note to your child each year, and imagine the delight when they open them 12 years later!

The Babycup is a perfect alternative stocking filler for weaning and beyond. Recommended by dentists for healthy oral development.

This comfortable, high-quality Christmas Elf costume is handmade in the UK.

£14.99, 1two.co.uk

£6.99, babycup.co.uk

£59.99, guuguuga.etsy.com

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SANTA’S LITTLE HELPER

PROMOTION

SUPER SET

ARM CANDY

CHRISTMAS KEEPSAKES

This gorgeous oxblood leather baby changing backpack makes the perfect stylish gift.

Cherish those first Christmas memories spent with your little one in a personalised photo album.

The Mama Bundle features luxuriously soft essentials that are ideal for packing your hospital bag. Designed for pregnancy and nursing.

£275, kerikit.com

£27, knightandgray.etsy.com

¤186, francisandhenry.com

AND RELAX…

LITTLE NIBBLER

Chill Pill Bath Bombs by Pomme d’Or Gift Ideas – handmade in Devon using allergen-free fragrance.

Little ones will love having a good play and chew on the Aurora quartz teething necklace.

This award-winning, functional and stylish handmade bib has a detachable wooden teether.

Over 50 different designs to choose from.

£10.95, pommedorgiftideas.co.uk

£16.95, mamaandbelle.com

£10, bibminders.etsy.com

THAT’S A WRAP

CHIN UP

Luxury large multi-use baby muslins in fashionable prints for style-conscious mums. The perfect gift for both mum and baby.

BABY BOUNTY

PARTY PIECE

All of mum’s favourite things to celebrate a new baby, presented in a beautifully wrapped box.

Made from the softest cotton fabric, this classically designed Doves Daisy dress is a trusty favourite.

£24, mama-rules.com

£20.40, sweetbellagifts.co.uk

£39, bumbleandava.com

MAKE PLAY

CLOSE COMPANION

The Bumpermat is an award-winning playmat, playpen, ball pool, travel cot all in one.

Portable and easy to clean.

Give the gift of sleep with the Lulla Doll. Voted by parents as the best baby comforter, and proven to help babies sleep longer.

Delight your little one this Christmas with this beautiful hand-embroidered Tea Shop playhouse.

£225, bumpermat.co.uk

£49.99, johnlewis.com

£195, kiddiewinkles.co.uk

TIME FOR TEA

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HEALTH

BACK ON TRACK On-demand fitness app TruBe has launched special PT sessions for pregnant women and new mothers.

Book a slot with your desired trainer in a place that suits you, and enjoy a tailored programme based on your fitness levels. Operating across London, there’s no joining fee – just pay for each class as you go. trubeapp.com

health & beauty

NEWS

ON-HAND HELP

The service from new online healthcare platform iDoc allows you to book same-day video or audio consultations with GPs through the app or via the website. And if it’s your little one who has the health issue, consultant paediatricians are on hand, too. They can give prescriptions and arrange referrals to a specialist if necessary. From £15 per month for a child subscription; idochealth.com

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

SKIN DEEP

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

French skincare favourite Bioderma has revealed its first range for babies. The ABCDerm line comprises six products, including essentials like wipes and hydrating milk, as well as targeted treatments for nappy rash and cradle cap. From £5.95, bioderma-uk.com

The new range includes a selection of treatments to soothe and repair

Encourage good habits early on with Bleep Bleeps’ smart toothbrush. The ‘Benjamin’, featuring soft silicone bristles for milk teeth, connects to a music store, from which millions of tracks are available for download. Brush along to your child’s favourite tune and track their progress with the app. £59, bleepbleeps.com

ORAL CARE EXPERTS BICKIEPEGS HEALTHCARE AND THE BRITISH SOCIETY OF PAEDIATRICS ARE CALLING ON PARENTS TO TAKE INFANTS FOR A DENTAL CHECK-UP BEFORE THEIR FIRST BIRTHDAY. IT COMES AS RESEARCH REVEALS ALMOST HALF OF THE UK’S FIVE YEAR OLDS HAVE ALREADY EXPERIENCED TOOTH DECAY.

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BEAUTY

LIKE A FLAME

What better time of year to experiment with a red lip than Christmas? No matter how tired you might feel, a slick of rouge is guaranteed to make you feel better. This L ’Absolu Gloss Cream lipgloss from Lancôme comes in 14 shades, and with its balmy base and buildable colour, you’ll feel a million dollars by the time you head out. £21, lancome.co.uk

TIME TO SHINE

Kate Freud ADDS A LIT TLE SPAR KLE TO TH E PART Y SE ASON TRUE COLOURS If you buy one product for your skin this winter, make sure it’s the Glamglow’s Flashmud Brightening Treatment.

Made with White Birch leaf, it delivers natural betulin, betulinic acid and ellagic acid to improve skin tone and give you a natural glow. £36, spacenk.co.uk

The three levels of exfoliation in Glamglow’s Flashmud gives radiant results

DAILY PLEASURES Who needs chocolate when you can find 24 of Cowshed’s bestselling products hidden behind closed doors? It will be like Christmas every day with this gorgeous advent calendar bounty. £90, johnlewis.com

FIVE OF THE BEST

DIPTYQUE Ambre candle with incense and tonka bean. £60, johnlewis.com

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MOLTON BROWN Fabled Juniper Berries & Lapp Pine candle. £42, moltonbrown.co.uk

COCHINE SAIGON Tuberose & Wild Fig candle with jasmine. £45, cochine.co.uk

NEOM ORGANICS Christmas Wish candle with cinnamon. £30, neomorganics.com

JO MALONE Incense & Embers candle with white pepper and fir. £44, jomalone.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Get in the spirit with these festive scented candles

be a

flamingo

Bebe Bombom collections are steeped in tradition and quality creating pieces that are generational and can become family heirlooms. From newborn to 4 years.

Visit our online shop www.bebebombom.com

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babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC17 | 105

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Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

“My husband and I are trying to conceive, and find Christmas a particularly difficult time of year as a result. Any advice on how we can survive it?”

C

hristmas can be a challenging time for those who find themselves desperately wanting a child but spending the season without one. Many couples dread this time of year, and even dealing with family and friends can be tough at times. Here are my tips for getting through it:

BE PREPARED In the coming weeks, you may have to deal with unwanted questions about children, or have to cope with insensitive comments. To avoid an uncomfortable situation, rehearse a few lines you can say if someone enquires about this sensitive topic. Take control of the situation, be friendly and change the subject.

NURTURE YOUR RELATIONSHIP Dedicate some time to your relationship as well. Your partner is probably feeling the same anxious feelings as you, and you should use each other for support.

REDUCE ALCOHOL HAVE MORE SEX The truth is, many couples simply do not have sex frequently enough. And although sex tends to become more stressful than enjoyable for many couples who are trying to conceive, it’s absolutely essential that you are having sex at least three times weekly during your fertile period. Sperm can live up to a week inside you, so regular sex helps you ensure a constant flow of sperm for ovulation.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TAKE TIME IF YOU NEED IT Set aside some time each day to build up your mental and emotional strength. Include things that give you pleasure: listen to music, go for a walk, meditate, but also begin to use positive affirmations using the present tense.

such as tomatoes, carrots and red peppers. Of course, it’s OK to indulge, but it’s important to also consume nutrient-dense foods in order to create healthy eggs and healthy sperm.

EAT WELL Although Christmas and New ed Recommend Year is a time to indulge, product remember that nutrition plays an important role.

Eat a range of foods such as green leafy vegetables, eggs, nuts, yoghurt and Vitafem Premium Nutrition for Female Fertility £22.50, beta-carotene-rich foods zitawest.com

Research shows us that, on average, the more alcohol you drink, the longer it will take you to get pregnant. For some women, alcohol may contribute to irregular periods, irregular ovulation and luteal phase defects, and for men, alcohol can affect sperm morphology and motility (their shape and ability). Although it’s hard at this time of year, I recommend you cut out, or at least cut down, on alcohol to boost your chances.

MAKE A PLAN An action plan for the new year can help you take back control over things you feel you have no control over. Is your body baby ready?

Are you having enough sex? Do you need to make a step to discuss IVF options? Despair is easier to feel than hope, but I have so often seen hope return once couples begin to take back control through planning.

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

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RUNNING HEAD

Mother knows best IT’S ONE OF THE BIGGEST LIFE ADJUSTMENTS YOU ’LL EVER MAKE. BUT WHAT DOES MOTHERHOOD REALLY TEACH YOU? Louise Pyne FIN DS OUT

ick up a baby manual and you’ll get the answers to a range of practical, need-to-know questions that face new mums. How do I swaddle my baby properly? What are the benefits of white noise? Should I invest in a sling or a carrier?

But there’s also a whole host of other things you won’t read about in those handbooks.

“With motherhood comes the biggest joys in your life and also the greatest challenges – physically, mentally and emotionally. Yes, it will be tough but it will also give you some of the happiest and proudest moments you could ever experience,” says Justina Perry, wellbeing expert and founder of MamaBabyBliss.

This is what we learn with the arrival of our tiny human beings:

P

ACCEPTANCE OF YOUR BODY

understanding as you navigate challenges you never thought you would encounter, so don’t underestimate the magnitude of who you’ve become,” adds Justina.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE Are you feeling shattered but still get that warm, fuzzy feeling every time you gaze into baby’s eyes? Nothing can prepare you for the love you feel for a child. “It’s all-consuming, and is what will keep you going through tough times. When you want to cry from tiredness or scream with frustration, just a smile from your baby will fill your heart with love and remind you why this is all so worthwhile,” notes Justina.

YOU MIGHT FEEL LIKE A WALKING ZOMBIE, BUT YOU’LL STILL PUSH THE PHYSICAL BOUNDARIES

You might have been obsessing over your slightly dimply thighs or less-than-perfect tum before you were pregnant, but you'll probably see your figure in a whole new light now that you’ve had a baby.

Your body has done something amazing by carrying that child for nine months, and those stretch marks and scars become an integral part of you. And say goodbye to fad diets: “You’ll be more focused on keeping healthy and energised to look after yourself and your baby,” believes Justina.

EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE During those early days you will go through plenty of highs and lows. Dropping levels

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of oestrogen and progesterone, along with the massive life shift that comes with having a baby can cause overwhelming feelings of sadness and tiredness. But just when you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom, you’ll probably experience a surge of love and awe just from looking at the little one you’ve created.

“Motherhood is a journey with one big difference – the destination is never really what you think it’s going to be,” says Justina.

“Dealing with a tiny person that has her own personality will make sure that every day is not the one you expected.” Learn to live in the moment and focus on the big picture rather than the little things.

NEW SKILLS You might be taking a career break right now, but you’ll learn a whole host of new skills while on maternity leave. From dealing with the unpredictability that comes with newborn territory (changing a nappy for the third time in 20 minutes, anyone?) to becoming nothing less than a multitasking ninja (think sending a text message while loading the washing machine and singing your baby to sleep at the same time), you’ll be surprised at how you quickly adapt to motherhood.

“You’ll also learn to have endless patience and

YOU’RE CAPABLE OF MORE THAN YOU THINK

Everyone will tell you that newborn babies wake up all the time, but it’s another thing actually experiencing a debilitating lack of sleep firsthand. One of the hardest adjustments of early motherhood is getting used to fragmented sleep but while you might feel like a walking zombie most of the time, you’ll still push the physical boundaries and get on with being the best mum you can.

“And don’t forget the old-fashioned advice of sleeping when your baby is asleep,” adds Justina. “Rather than tidying or filling your time with activities, take some time out. Studies have shown that a 20- to 30-minute nap is all it takes to recharge and leave you mentally more alert and able to cope.”

RUNNING HEAD

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

From patience and resilience to the art of multitasking, motherhood changes us, whether we like it or not

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With you every step of the way

BEFORE

DURING PREGNANCY

AFTER

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Helping to make healthy mums and babies for over 25 years, Pregnacare® provides the recommended level of folic acid,4 along with vitamin D which is advised by the UK Department of Health throughout pregnancy.5 It also provides a range of micronutrients, and is supported by unique clinical research with mums-to-be6,7.

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1. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol.18, No.5, 487-489 (1999). 2. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. 3. Based on a survey of 1000 midwives. 4. Folic acid contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Pregnacare® has always contained 400mcg folic acid, the level recommended for all women from the start of trying to conceive until the 12th week of pregnancy. 5. Source: NHS Choices. 6. Agrawal, R. et al. Prospective randomised trial of multiple micronutrients in women undergoing ovulation induction, Reproductive BioMedicine Online December 2011. 7. L Brough et al. Effect of multiple-micronutrient supplementation on maternal nutrient status, infant birth weight and gestational age at birth in a low-income, multi-ethnic population. British Journal of Nutrition (2010), 104, 437-445. *UK’s No.1 pregnancy supplement brand. Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Unit Sales 52 w/e 25 March 2017.

HEALTH

The Breastfeeding Café with CLARE BYAM-COOK

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

WHAT DO I NEED TO CONSIDER WHILE BREASTFEEDING OVER CHRISTMAS?

B

reastfeeding mothers will often worry whether it’s OK to drink alcohol, whether their baby will become colicky if they eat the wrong foods, and how they can possibly find time to relax when there is so much to do! To avoid feeling overwhelmed, the answer is to prepare well in advance.

Check baby is happy to feed from a bottle Christmas is a good time to get other family members to help you with some of the feeds, preferably using your expressed milk. If your baby is used to having the occasional bottle, she will be happy to switch between bottle and breast without any problems. But if she has been exclusively breastfed since birth, you might find that she gets upset or fussy when you first introduce a bottle, so don’t leave it until the last minute to see how she reacts.

Try offering her a bottle at some feeds instead of the breast and experiment to see which bottle she prefers – what suits one baby does not necessarily suit another.

Store some breast milk in the freezer It’s a good idea to start freezing some spare

milk in the weeks leading up to Christmas to ensure you have some in reserve if you get overtired and your supply temporarily goes down. It might also come in handy if you overindulge on alcohol and need to ‘pump and dump’ afterwards! The best time to express is immediately after a feed so that you do not affect the amount available for the next feed.

Think before you drink Even medical professionals cannot agree on how much alcohol is safe to consume when pregnant or breastfeeding, which makes it rather difficult for anyone else to make an informed decision. Some health professionals say that it is not safe for a breastfeeding mother to drink any alcohol at all until her baby is three months old, while others take a more relaxed view. It is my opinion that your baby is unlikely to come to any harm if you occasionally drink 1-2 units of alcohol (the equivalent of a glass of wine) immediately after a breastfeed so that your body has time to eliminate most of it before the next feed. You can have fun, but do think before you drink!

And if you buy only one thing…

Pick up a copy of Clare’s book for failsafe ways to make breastfeeding simple, and help overcome the problems that many new mothers face.

Top Tips for Breastfeeding £7.99, amazon.co.uk

FESTIVE FOOD TIPS • Once your baby is born, it’s safe to eat all the foods that you avoided during pregnancy, and most babies are not adversely affected by everyday foods. It is therefore unlikely that your baby will react badly to anything you eat, but if you think she is becoming windy or colicky three to six hours after you have eaten a certain food, you might want to consider temporarily excluding it from your diet.

• Some foods can change the taste of your breast milk, so again, assess from your baby’s reaction what she does and doesn’t enjoy.

• Remember that many Christmas treats contain alcohol, so this needs to be taken into account when you are looking at your daily alcohol intake.

• Chocolate contains caffeine so consuming it in large amounts might make your baby less placid and more wakeful than usual.

• Nuts, including peanut butter, are safe to eat and won’t put your baby at greater risk of a nut allergy.

In fact, they can make a great energy-boosting snack!

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BABY TALK

PART

Diary of a MUM Mar tha Alexander IS IN N EED OF SOM E NOR MALIT Y, SO SH E H E ADS BACK TO TH E OFFICE

W

hen people ask me if I’m back at work yet, I love saying, “Well I never really stopped”, as if I’m a vigorous hybrid of Sheryl Sandberg, Wonder Woman and Gwyneth Paltrow: Jaeger trouser suits, Bluetooth headsets and avocado pulp coursing through my veins.

In a sense, I didn’t stop: I wrote my Diary of a Mum and other pieces at night or during Robin’s naps. But I am now freelance. This is what I had always wanted: a chance to work for myself.

The house opposite ours was being renovated. Being a nosy parker, I went over to have a butcher’s: would their Farrow & Ball paintwork be a source of jealousy for me?

What type of shutters would they choose? OMG, are they getting a bespoke bin shed?! In the window was a small sign. It said that the new owner was a childminder.

“I bet she’s a psycho,” I sniffed to my husband as I prepared to call Susie for the first time.

Susie wasn’t a psycho. She’s an ex-headteacher with two children of her own. Her place is like a nursery. She’s flexible and friendly with brilliant assistants, exciting toys and daily excursions. Robin loves it. She smiles when she arrives and cries when she leaves, which is a bit insulting. (“Am I bad mum? She likes being away from me! Maybe she thinks Susie is her mum…” etc).

But these intrusive thoughts were the least of my worries. No one tells you that your professional confidence also takes a beating when you take time out to have a baby. I suddenly found myself more confused and uncertain than I ever was as a teenager.

I’m riddled with insecurity. I send speculative emails which are meek: I feel apologetic and embarrassed about ‘taking up time’. And as my sense of self gets smaller, the presence of others and their achievements become inflated, omnipresent and almost gloating.

Social media is a nightmare: a terrifying catalogue of brilliance from my peers. Promotions, trips, awards, sponsorships, head-huntings, TV appearances, as well as holidays and handbags – presumably the result of enormous salaries or bonuses.

“God, I hate everyone,” is something I say too often.

I know that being mean-spirited will eat me up. Is this the ugly truth; that I can only be happy for others if I am happy myself? Having to be chipper and graceful about other people’s success when my career feels on hold is hard work. And people say, “But you’ve got a beautiful baby!” which makes me feel like an ungrateful toad who doesn’t deserve her.

The worst is the pigeonholing: the smirking gallerist with a conceptual haircut, living in a warehouse space in Peckham, who said, “So you’re all about this now?” pointing at Robin and laying bare the judgement.

But I’m not all about ‘this’ now. I don’t know what I’m all about.

I started to do a few days a week at a national newsroom, which is the sort of fast-paced environment I needed to kick me up the tush. Also, it’s lonely being freelance all day, sending emails out into the ether.

“I just want someone to talk to,” I said. “I’m so alone.”

“I thought you wanted to be alone?” said everyone.

“I did. But now I miss offices and the jokes, and all the free birthday cake and gossip.”

My editors have been understanding about my childcare commitments but I can’t escape the feeling they think of me as nothing more than a part-timer when I leave early (as agreed).

While at work, I try to talk about being a mum as little as possible to prove I don’t just talk about parenting.

A younger woman sitting next to me said, “Childbirth is so freaky, isn’t it? Have you ever seen a baby being born?” I just said “yes” and looked out of the window.

“You’ve got a baby?” someone asked after a few weeks, leaning forward in his seat and eyeing me with wonder, as if I’d just said I kept a unicorn in my utility room. I nodded. He asked to see a picture and of course, I gave him an album.

I’m proud of my daughter and I’m sick of pretending she doesn’t exist in case a 25-year-old hipster thinks I’m a mum. I am a mum. But I’m other things too, it’s just a case of believing it. bl Twitter: @marthalondon

Returning to work: the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to some new stationery A5 notebook £12, kikki-k.com

Next time: Martha talks competitive parenting, and the politics of dressing girls

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 113

PREGNANCY

COULD IT BE TIME?

Dr Asma Khalil, CON SU LTANT OBSTE TRICIAN AN D FE TAL M EDICIN E SPECIALIST AT TH E PORTL AN D HOSPITAL, R EVE AL S TH E SIGN S OF L ABOU R TO LOOK OUT FOR

T

BROKEN WATERS The most obvious sign of labour is ruptured membranes – or broken waters, as it is more commonly known. This is when some of the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby leaks out.

It is not always as dramatic as shown in the movies – it’s often just a small amount. And this doesn’t necessarily mean you are in labour either – it can sometimes happen before any contractions start, or even during labour after you’ve had contractions for several hours, but you should always report it to your midwife or consultant. In many cases, women aren’t surprised by their waters breaking as they would have been experiencing a number of other signs of labour beforehand.

CONTRACTIONS Another common sign of labour is contractions. Labour contractions feel different for everyone, but will cause pain in your abdomen and perhaps your lower back, starting at the top of the uterus and ending at the bottom of it. These will intensify throughout your labour, becoming more frequent and regular as time passes. However, you should be able to relax between each

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wave of discomfort.

Many women experience ‘false’ contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These differ from contractions experienced in labour, so it is important to understand the differences so you don’t worry unnecessarily! These may start around halfway through your pregnancy and are caused by a tightening of the muscles in your uterus.

Braxton Hicks contractions are sometimes called ‘practice contractions’. They can start as early as 20 weeks of pregnancy in women who have had babies before, but usually only in the last few weeks in women having their first baby. They are relatively painless – your whole uterus goes very hard and tight; sometimes uncomfortable because it’s so tight, but they’re not intensely painful. After a minute or two, it passes, and your uterus relaxes again. On the other hand, labour contractions are painful; initially like mild period pains, then they grow in intensity and will occur more frequently.

LIGHTENING Some women feel their baby ‘drop’, which is when it settles much lower in your abdomen, or ‘engages’. This process we often term ‘lightening’. The baby’s head will fall lower into the pelvis, and sit on your pubic bone. This can be accompanied by an increased urge to urinate due to increased pressure on your bladder, as well as other symptoms such as a reduction of your heartburn and breathing difficulties. While this can happen up to a few weeks before you give birth, it is a sign that

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

here are many questions I’m asked by first-time mothers, but one of the most popular is, ‘How will I know when I’ve gone into labour?’ During our pregnancies we all feel a number of different changes and, for a woman who has never had a baby before, the prospect of going into labour can sometimes feel a bit scary.

PREGNANCY

LABOUR IS ESTABLISHED WHEN CONTRACTIONS ARE EVERY THREE MINUTES OR SO your pregnancy is reaching an end and your body is getting ready for labour, though this doesn’t necessarily mean your labour is imminent.

ANYTHING ELSE? There are a few more vague symptoms that labour may be coming, including poor sleeping patterns, tummy problems and drastic mood changes. If you start to notice these as you approach your due date it might be time to pack your hospital bag. Having said that, these symptoms aren’t unusual throughout pregnancy, so don’t hold your breath!

Most of the signs of labour can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few hours before, which is important to keep in mind before you rush to the hospital a week early!

WHAT NEXT? Once labour has started, you should have enough time to get to your chosen hospital – it very rarely lasts less than a few hours. If you’re a first time mum, the average time for your baby to be born is 12 hours after labour has become fully established, that is, your contractions are coming every three minutes or so, and your cervix has started to dilate.

This average time is usually much shorter for mums who have had a baby before.

What’s important to note is when you are in labour, it’s essential you stay calm. Staying relaxed will help you to deal with pain and contractions. Hypnobirthing classes can help you prepare for this. I advise you have a birth plan prepared well ahead of your due date, including your plan for getting to the hospital and your preferences in case something was to go unexpectedly.

Labour can be a stressful time, but it’s also one of the most important days of your life so I always advise women to ask any questions they have before their due date so they know exactly what to expect in the run up to the special day.

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HEALTH

WHAT AGE IS BEST TO START A ROUTINE AND WHAT ARE THE FIRST STEPS?

meet

the

EXPERTS OU R H E ALTHCAR E PROFE SSIONAL S AN SWER YOU R QU E STION S ABOUT PR EGNANC Y AN D BEYON D

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There is no specific age to start a routine. It’s more about when you are feeling confident.

However, ideally it is best to start within the first month, before unhelpful habits take hold.

Babies need to learn to distinguish between night and day, so the first step is to wake your baby during the day for regular feeds. This isn’t cruel, as some people think. Everyone needs sleep, and it’s best that this is at night time.

Babies need a full tummy so they can sleep well, but they can easily doze off after just a few minutes of sucking. Encourage your baby to stay awake and feed well.

Set a consistent bedtime routine. Babies love bath time so enjoy this time with her.

Create a calm environment and give her a really good feed before settling to bed.

Regular daytime naps are important – a well rested baby will sleep well at night. Aim for lengthy naps in the morning and lunch time, but a shorter nap in the afternoon so your baby is ready for sleep come bedtime.

You will also need to encourage your baby to be awake and active for short spells during the day, to avoid the partying at night!

Gillian Stewart, baby and child consultant at Little Routines

HEALTH WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A POSTNATAL CHECK, AND WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?

DO ALL TODDLERS GET PERSISTENTLY ILL FROM NURSERY? Starting nursery brings a lot of exciting development for parents and their children.

Unfortunately, there is also a downside, as children do get recurrent infections, and parents can catch their illnesses too! This could easily happen without there being an underlying immune system deficiency.

Twelve to 14 episodes of acute infection (upper respiratory tract infection, middle ear infection, diarrhoea and vomiting) in one year are considered normal. First-born children are often more prone to infections and international families can also experience additional problems. Infants will enjoy immunity from antibodies transferred from their mother, but this protection slowly subsides towards the end of the first year of life. The upside is that frequent infections train the immune system and make it stronger to tackle viruses and bacteria once a child grows up. Recurrent infections are a normal step in your child’s development.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Strategies to prevent illnesses: • Get your child vaccinated according to the recommended schedule.

• Ensure your child gets enough fresh air.

• A healthy balanced diet can help. Vitamin A and C as well as iron, zinc and folate are particularly important, and vitamin D during the winter months.

• An adequate amount of sleep supports immunity. Children aged one to three years usually need 11 to 12 hours, from ages four to six, 10 to 11 hours.

• A smoke-free environment is crucial for healthy airways.

• Plan ahead to allow enough time free to support your child when they start nursery.

Remember, allergies can mimic or aggravate respiratory symptoms such as coughs and difficulty breathing. A doctor can help you diagnose whether an allergy is the cause of the problem and how to treat it.

Dr Sophie Niedermaier MD, consultant paediatrician at Richmond Practice

Your first check-up will occur between six and eight weeks after giving birth. Around this time, your anatomy will be returning to its non-pregnant state. This check-up is an opportunity for your GP to ensure you are well both physically and emotionally, along with the chance to meet your newborn for the first time. I always encourage new mothers to bring with them a list of questions they might have, and I tend to allow one hour for each postnatal check-up to run through everything clearly so you can leave feeling at ease.

Your physical examination will involve being weighed, having your urine checked for kidney function, checking the healing process of any stitches and a discussion about bleeding or periods since delivery. Your doctor will also ask whether you have had a smear test recently and book you in for one if not. Although it’s recommended on the NHS to have a smear test every three years, I recommend my patients have this annually.

Finally, your GP will need to ensure you are up to date with your own immunisation schedule (including rubella), and you can even have a discussion about your little one’s immunisation schedule, too. Do also expect a discussion about contraception options, even if this isn’t the first thing on your mind. The most important thing is that you are honest and able to relax. Most worries you may be experiencing are normal, but it is always best to speak to your GP openly about them.

Even if you are slightly overwhelmed, tired or suffering the baby blues; your doctor can help you take proactive steps. Your emotional wellbeing is equally as important – don’t forget that.

Dr Anuj Chaturvedi, medical director and GP at HealthClic

I’VE ALWAYS SUFFERED WITH MY EYES, HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY BABY HAS POOR EYESIGHT? Babies eyesight may be blurry to begin with, but they can see from birth and their vision continues to develop until about the age of seven. It’s therefore important to get eye problems checked out early on.

Children won’t tell you if their sight is bad, as they have no terms of reference. Look out for tell-tale signs such as sitting too close to the television, an inability to recognise siblings and a short attention span. Eye checks are also recommended and your baby’s health visitor should carry out an eye check – the ‘red reflex test’ – soon after birth. This checks for signs of eye conditions such as cataracts.

Most children are born long-sighted, becoming less so as their eyeballs grow.

Both long and short sight can result in an optician prescribing glasses. A squint, when the eyes point in different directions, is also common among small children, and usually requires glasses. A squint should be addressed promptly before a child develops a lazy eye. I find parents often worry how their child will cope with glasses, however, they adjust easily.

Young children aren’t self-conscious and will be happy they can see properly.

Thankfully, serious eye conditions in children are rare. But if your child’s pupil reflects as white in a photograph using the flash, this could be a sign of eye disease. You get a lot of false positives with digital cameras, but this trick can save lives.

Gillian Adams, consultant paediatric ophthalmologist at The Portland Hospital

OUR PANEL

Gillian Adams

Dr Anuj Chaturvedi

Gillian Stewart

Dr Sophie Niedermaier MD

theportlandhospital.com

healthclic.co.uk

littleroutines.co.uk

richmondpractice.co.uk

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Time to Talk

REFLUX

Marina Fogle & Dr Chiara Hunt TH E SISTER S DISCUSS TH E SIGN S OF THIS COMMON CON DITION ll babies cry – some more than others, and some seemingly all the time. But when does excessive crying suggest there might be a medical problem? Reflux is when the muscle at the top of a baby’s stomach that keeps milk in after it’s been swallowed is not quite strong enough, allowing both milk and stomach acid to travel back up the oesophagus. This occurs mildly in a lot of babies, causing them to vomit or ‘posset’ after a feed. For most babies this doesn’t cause any pain and they keep enough milk down not to lose weight. However, when reflux is severe it can cause discomfort or worrying weight loss.

Silent reflux is when the baby doesn’t vomit but the acidy milk keeps travelling up and down the oesophagus. This is often painful and can be more difficult to diagnose, as these babies tend to scream the whole time but don’t vomit any more than normal.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

A

Silent reflux is often confused with colic, as the symptoms are similar. Babies with both are clearly uncomfortable, but babies with reflux tend to cry all day, while colic tends to affect babies more in the evenings. Colic can be eased with over-the-counter remedies such as Infacol, and babies tend to grow out of it between 10 and 12 weeks.

Many paediatricians feel the reason we see more cases of reflux nowadays may be because we are more likely to put babies to sleep on their backs. Although babies suffering reflux would be more comfortable sleeping on their front, putting babies to sleep on their backs significantly reduces the risk of cot death. So, as tempting as it might seem to relent and put your baby to sleep on her front, don’t – it’s not safe.

Most cases of reflux can be diagnosed by a paediatrician or GP simply by examining the baby.

In complicated cases, tests can

be done to confirm the diagnosis, but these are somewhat invasive so are not done routinely.

The treatment for both reflux and silent reflux are the same. Most cases are mild and require only simple measures to make baby more comfortable, but others require medication prescribed by doctors.

As miserable as it can be for both of you, rest assured that the vast majority of little ones will grow out of it, most within the first six months of life, or when baby is established on solids – even without treatment. And most ‘refluxy’ babies turn out to be robust, healthy and happy toddlers, full of beans and ready to explore the world.

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

TOP TIPS • Keep baby upright as much as you can, particularly during and after feeds.

• Feed little and often, particularly if your baby is vomiting a lot.

• Dummies can help as they encourage baby to suck the acid back down.

• A warm pad on baby’s tummy can ease the pain.

• Reflux is sometimes linked to cow’s milk protein allergy, especially if baby also has eczema. Try a cow’s milk-free formula, or if you’re breastfeeding, try excluding cow’s milk from your diet for two weeks.

• Gaviscon Infant coats the stomach and oesophagus, protecting it from the acid.

It also acts as a thickener, causing the milk to sit more heavily in the stomach.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 119

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW

TO EN SU R E YOU ’R E GIVING BABY H ER BE ST-EVER BEDTIM E, Laura Mason PUTS THESE SLEEP SUITS AND BAGS TO THE TEST Best

FLEXIBILITY

Best for

NEWBORNS

25p of every item sold from The Little Green Sheep’s Wild Cotton collection goes to the Woodland Trust

Best for WINTER

Best for TRAVEL

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SUMMER

LOVE TO DREAM

Swaddle UP A combined sleeping bag and swaddle in one, the Swaddle UP secures babies and encourages them to sleep with their arms raised to emulate their natural sleeping position in the womb. It also assists with self-soothing, as babies are able to touch their faces for comfort, all the while feeling safe and snug. £22.99, cheekyrascals.co.uk

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ADEN + ANAIS

Classic Sleeping Bag This sleeping bag comes in an array of prints, including this Winnie The Pooh design which is part of the brand’s endearing Disney range. The pure muslin bag is incredibly breathable, so it’s a perfect choice for warmer months, allowing baby’s temperature to regulate more easily. £29.95, adenandanais.co.uk

THE LITTLE GREEN SHEEP

Wild Cotton Sleeping Bag This 2.5-tog bag is thick and chunky to touch and made from organic, soft and snuggly cotton.

Spacious armholes and a voluminous interior ensure there’s plenty of wiggle room, too. A donation from each purchase goes towards supporting the Woodland Trust. £38.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

THE GRO COMPANY

ERGOPOUCH

To transport a sleeping baby safely, and let you gently lift her into the cot without disturbing her, this bag features flaps to accommodate a five-point harness on a car seat or pushchair, alongside a protective two-way zip closure. Better still, it’s available in a range of standout Orla Kiely prints. £36.99, gro-store.com

This design cleverly converts from a traditional sleeping bag to a sleep suit with leg pockets, allowing toddling babies to freely move their legs. It allows little ones to not only stand comfortably, but the addition of slip-free grip feet ensures walking is easy, and helps to prevent any falls when standing in the cot. £55.99, buggybaby.co.uk

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babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC17 | 121

NUTRITION

Tackle those TODDLER TANTRUMS ADJUSTING YOU R CHILD’S DIE T COU LD BE TH E SECR E T TO A MOR E PE ACEFU L LIFE, SAYS N UTRITIONIST Louise Pyne

hink about the last time your tummy started to grumble. At the same time you probably experienced an energy lull, mood changes, and you might have even felt shaky and lightheaded – so it makes perfect sense that when your child is hungry, her behaviour changes, too. In children, hunger is often manifested as temper tantrums, and while they are too young to realise why they’re flipping out, it’s down to you to read the tell-tale signs. Here’s my guide to help maximise your child’s diet and minimise any meltdowns at the same time:

T

B IS FOR BLOOD GLUCOSE BALANCE Of course, there are lots of reasons why toddlers have tantrums. Frustration, boredom

glucagon, which releases stored glucose into the bloodstream so we always have a steady supply. When your little one eats foods high in simple carbs or sugar (think cakes, biscuits or white bread), they are broken down quickly, causing a sharp rise in blood sugar levels, whereas complex carbohydrates release glucose more slowly into the bloodstream.

LOOK FOR CUES Your child may give you clues when she’s about to lose her cool, so keep a close eye on her behaviour, and if she starts to shows signs of anger, frustration and even anxiety, offer her a healthy snack. Keep a tantrum diary for two weeks to see if you can trace any patterns that might be linked to her diet. You may

MOST FRUIT JUICES ARE CRAMMED WITH SUGAR – TRY A SMOOTIE WITH FULL-FAT MILK AND BERRIES and difficulty communicating often lurk behind meltdown patterns, but controlling her blood glucose levels though a balanced diet leads to a calmer child. When the carbohydrate part of food is digested it enters your child’s bloodstream as glucose, and the pancreas releases a hormone called insulin.

Insulin’s job is to transport glucose out of the bloodstream and into the cells, where it can be used for energy or storage. As cells absorb this glucose, levels begin to drop and so the liver starts producing a hormone called

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notice that she exhibits flare-ups when she eats certain foods, or possibly at specific times of the day.

OFFER REGULAR SNACKS It’s important that your child eats little and often. As a general rule this should be every two to three hours, however, it’s not only timing that’s important but also the choice of snack. Choose the wrong types of foods and her inner monster is more likely to make an appearance! Carbs on their own increase

HEALTHY SNACKS

Keep energy levels high with these bite-sized meals

Oatcakes with cottage cheese Oatcakes are high in energising B-vitamins as well complex carbohydrates. Cottage cheese is rich in protein and has a soft texture that your child will love.

Spread one tablespoon of cottage cheese on two oatcakes and top with cucumber slices.

Apple with almond butter Apples are low in sugar while high in fibre, and almond butter is a good source of protein. Cut an apple into slices and spread a layer of smooth almond butter on top for tasty blood glucose balancing snack.

Mashed banana it a seed on wholemeal toast The riper the banana, the higher the sugar content, so opt for yellow skinned bananas over ones that have already turned brown.

Mash a small banana and stir through half a teaspoon of ground flaxseed powder for a protein hit.

Spread the mixture onto a slice of wholemeal toast.

NUTRITION

A full and happy tummy equals a happy baby!

insulin levels, while protein raises stress levels, however combining these two macronutrients provides the perfect food match as together they counteract blood glucose surges. (See our list, left, for healthy snack ideas).

FILL HER UP WITH FIBRE Foods like brown bread, wholemeal pasta and fruit (with the skin on), will offer an energy boost and a dose of fibre. Since fibre doesn’t rely on insulin to be digested it won’t result in blood sugar peaks and will keep your child feeling fuller for longer.

REFILL THE BEAKER Thirst is often mistaken for hunger so it’s just as crucial to ensure your child fills up on liquids as well as offering her snacks at regular intervals. And when it comes to fluids, water always wins. Adequate H2O will give her the energy she needs while nourishing her body’s cells so they function optimally, and keep her bowels working well.

There are no official guidelines on water intake for toddlers but making sure she takes regular sips throughout the day should help her stay hydrated. If she refuses plain water, invest in a bottle infuser, which allows you to flavour water with her favourite fruit. Avoid sugar bombs like fruit juice and squash. Most varieties are crammed with the sweet stuff and contain zero fibre, which sends blood sugar levels skyrocketing. Instead, you can also make smoothies with full-fat milk and plenty of low-sugar fruits like blueberries and raspberries.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

ALWAYS FEED HER FULL-FAT DAIRY Although NHS guidelines state that you can swap to semi-skimmed products once your child reaches two years old, sticking to full-fat products will give her the calories she needs to fuel her activities.

Furthermore, the fatty acids contained in full-fat products will help your toddler feel more satisfied sooner and for longer. Avoid low-fat foods like diet yogurts – they usually contain sugar, which will play with her blood glucose levels, and always make sure you read the ingredients list.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 123

!

The Little London Music School Introducing your child to the joy of music Comprehensive, structured & stimulating music classes for children 6 months – 5 years.

Limited places available for Autumn Half Term intake!

Spring Term bookings open late November.

Our classically based curriculum is taught by opera singers, accompanied by orchestral instruments and is tailored to each stage of your child’s development.

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NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • NEW FULHAM LOCATION!

The Little London Music School

Family Christmas Carols Join us this December for our Annual Family Christmas Carols. This sell out event is the perfect way to get in to the festive spirit. Sing some Christmas favourites with our professional singers and live instrumental trio, while your little ones play along on our bells, maracas and more!

Knightsbridge, Notting Hill, Fulham www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

INTERIORS

THAT’S A WRAP Just in time for Christmas, Aden + Anais’ beautiful blankets have had a metallic makeover. Bring a touch of sparkle to bedtime with the breathable cotton muslins, that only get softer the more you wash them. £42 (pack of three), adenandanais.co.uk

ALL THE FEELS

Is there anything more decadent than Helen Moore’s faux fur Christmas stockings? Available in a rainbow of shades – from delicious raspberry and peach to classic white – there’s one for all the family, and baby will love the super-snuggly feel of hers. From £50, notonthehighstreet.com

These sweet Nordic animals will help you create a cosy Scandinavian vibe

interior

NEWS

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

COMPILED BY: KATE FREUD

FELT FRIENDS

If you’re looking for a one-stop Christmas shop for the season, look no further than Cox & Cox. Its beautiful festive pieces are guaranteed to get you in the spirit, from stunning table decorations to these charming felt mice (£30). coxandcox.co.uk

Babies and grown-ups alike will love these furry little additions to the Christmas tree. A perfect way to tap into the Scandi trend, the hanging decorations come in a multipack with four penguins, four reindeer and four polar bears. £4.49, talkingtables.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 125

BABY’S FIRST CHRISTMAS

’Tis the season to shop sweet stocking-fillers and magical nursery ideas! Clockwise from top left: Maileg’s cotton polar bear and penguin toys make the perfect cuddly companions (from £23 each, polarpost.co.uk); give baby a gift to treasure forever, with Clara & Macy’s personalised print (£18.75, claraandmacy.com); this adorable rocking horse, with his brown leatherette saddle and houndstooth print, makes the ultimate present (£164.95, littlebirdtoldme.co.uk); add a festive touch to their playroom with The White Company’s range of knitted decorations, including this jolly Father Christmas design (£10, thewhitecompany.com)

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CHRISTMAS with Campbell Books

The perfect Christmas books for babies & toddlers www.campbell-books.com

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FOOD

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

SPECIAL DELIVERY

Piccolo Plates’ new gift packages might just be the perfect treat for busy mums. For £20, you can send a week’s worth of fresh, home-cooked kids’ meals straight to the door of a lucky friend, ready to be eaten immediately or frozen for later. Each package comes lovingly wrapped with a personalised card and a treat for mum, too. £20, piccoloplates.com

BABIES WELCOME Battersea’s Nutbourne brasserie has joined forces with childcare pros Mimi’s Minis to launch the UK’s first in-house restaurant babysitting service. Simply book a table and request a sitter – you’ll even get 10% off the food bill just for using the service. What better excuse do you need for date night? nutbourne-restaurant.com

SMOOTH OPERATOR A HELPING HAND Sign up to Detox Kitchen’s brilliant new Mama package and rest assured you’ll be getting all the nutrients you need postbaby. Developed alongside nutritionist Amelia Freer, each tasty meal, snack and drink has been selected to nourish your body, with each home-delivered box containing all you’ll need throughout the day. £39.95 per day, mamadkitchen.com

Creating nutritious meals for your baby needn’t be complicated. The new Nutribaby(+) from Babymoov is one smart food preparation device – it can steam and blend food, heat and sterilise bottles, defrost, and handles even more than the original model. Available in five different finishes. £139.99, johnlewis.com

This fabulous food maker’s XXL capacity is enough to feed the whole family

NEW RESEARCH FROM HIPP ORGANIC HAS UNCOVERED PARENTS’ BIGGEST WEANING WORRIES. A KEY CONCERN IS THE ACCEPTANCE OF DIFFERENT TEXTURES, WHILE 46% WORRY THEY ARE NOT SUPPORTING THEIR BABY’S NUTRITIONAL NEEDS. HIPP.CO.UK

TAP THE APP New app Whatsinit? allows parents to scan food labels for a summary of contents, with your pre-set dietary profile warning you of any offending ingredients. Perfect for those with allergies.

Free, whatsinitapp.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 129

FOOD

Christmas

comforts

IN FANT N UTRITION SPECIALIST Alice Fotheringham COOKS U P A STOR M WITH H ER SE ASONAL R ECIPE S FOR ALL TH E FAMILY

PA R S N I P, L E E K & C A R R O T P U R É E Preparation and cooking: 30 minutes Suitable from 6 months Makes 4 portions

This is a great vegetarian recipe that’s perfect for using up those leftover roast veggies. The sweet, smooth flavours of parsnip and carrot make great first tastes for babies, and the slightly nutty taste of celeriac complements the carrot and leek perfectly.

INGREDIENTS

• Dash of olive oil • ¼ leek, trimmed, washed and chopped • ½ garlic clove, peeled and crushed • 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped • ½ carrot, peeled and chopped • ¼ medium celeriac, peeled and chopped • 100ml of boiling water • 1 sage leaf, chopped • Pinch of thyme, fresh or dried

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METHOD

Heat the olive oil in a deep, heavy bottomed pan and add the leek. Stir for a few minutes until the leek starts to soften, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the parsnip, carrot and celeriac and stir.

Cook over a medium heat for 6-8 minutes.

Add the sage and thyme, and stir through.

Take off the heat when you can easily pierce the vegetables with a knife and they are cooked through.

Add half of the water, then blend everything together. If you want a smoother purée, you can add the rest of the water.

Tip: This makes a delicious soup for the rest of the family. Simply use 1 whole leek, 4 parsnips, 2 carrots and 1 whole celeriac.

Remove baby’s portion once finished and add seasoning, a dash of milk and a sprinkling of parmesan to the rest.

FOOD

With just a few additions, this purĂŠe becomes a tasty soup for the whole family!

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 131

FOOD

Delight young and older party guests alike with these tasty biscuits

H E A LT H Y C H O C O L AT E & PECAN FUDGE Preparation: 20 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing Suitable from 1 year Makes 20 large squares INGREDIENTS

• 150g pecans, roughly chopped • 454g jar of no-added-sugar smooth peanut butter • 150g dark chocolate • 100g (approx 6 heaped tsp) coconut oil • 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional) METHOD

CHRISTMAS ROBIN BISCUITS Preparation: 30 minutes Cooking: 12 minutes Suitable from 1 year Makes 20-24 biscuits

These adorable biscuits make great sweet treats for festive parties, or packaged up as a gift for friends and family. The cinnamon and spices add a real warmth – the taste of Christmas!

INGREDIENTS

• 150g butter, softened • 100g light brown soft sugar • 1 medium egg • 300g plain flour • 2 tsp mixed spice • ½ tsp cinnamon TO DECORATE

• Dried cranberries • Raisins • 150g icing sugar • Water • Red and black food colouring

METHOD

In a bowl, beat together the butter and sugar with an electric whisk until pale and creamy.

Add the egg, then sift in the flour, mixed spice and cinnamon. Mix well to form a dough.

Shape the dough into a large flat ball or disc, and wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 190°C and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Unwrap the dough, place between 2 sheets of cling film, and roll out to about 5mm thick. Using a bird cookie cutter, cut out 20-24 shapes.

Place the biscuit shapes on the baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 5 minutes on the tray before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

To decorate, mix the icing sugar with a little water until you get icing that is the consistency of thick honey. Use a piping bag to decorate the biscuits. Once iced, stick on flattened dried cranberries or glace red cherries for the chest and raisins for the eyes.

Leave the icing to set before serving.

Line a square tin or Pyrex dish with cling film.

Have the cling film draped over the edges so you can lift out the fudge once set.

Gently heat water in a saucepan and place a glass mixing bowl on top. Break the chocolate into the bowl and add the peanut butter and coconut oil. Stir until it all melts together.

Meanwhile, heat up a frying pan and dryroast the pecans for around five minutes, stirring continuously to avoid the pecans catching and burning.

Pour the pecan pieces into the melted chocolate and mix together.

Pour the mix into the prepared dish, and gently wiggle side to side to get a flat surface.

Put in the freezer for 60 minutes, or until set, before slicing into squares or fingers.

You can keep this fudge in the fridge for 3-4 days or store in the freezer, as it will go soft at room temperature.

Tip: Mix up your flavours! Try using cashew nut butter instead of peanut butter, or a combination of the two. Add in dried cranberries or desiccated coconut, or try using crunchy peanut butter for even more texture.

Alice Fotheringham is infant nutrition specialist at Piccolo. Piccolo is an organic baby food brand with roots in the Mediterranean approach to feeding children. The brand supports the NCT and gives 10% of its profits to food education. mylittlepiccolo.com

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A boutique dedicated to great British design, with beautifully crafted products in timeless and elegant designs that will both charm and inspire. Shop here for an exclusive range of gifts that will be cherished and loved by all. A haven for mothers-to-be.

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SEASIDE ESCAPE

FAMILY MANOR Take the stress out of Christmas and check into The Ickworth in Bury St Edmunds. The stately home will treat you to fabulous food with all the trimmings, entertain the kids, and play host to lots of festive fun – from outdoor scavenger hunts to board games and films for everyone. You might never want Christmas at home again… £1,499 per room for three nights, ickworthhotel.co.uk

travel

Cornwall isn’t just for summer.

The Time Out Toddler Break at Bedruthan Hotel & Spa ensures you and baby have an amazing stay whatever the weather, with spa access, free childcare, plus breakfast and dinner. Don’t forget your bucket and spade! From £825 for three nights, bedruthan.com

NEWS

WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW WELLNESS WONDER A bespoke mum-to-be massage with this view? Yes please!

&Breathe retreats has added a new location to its list. Taking place at a riad in rural Morocco in March 2018, the week-long break is aimed at new parents with babies under 18 months.

Enjoy tailored fitness classes, as well as PT sessions and massage. £2,100 per family, andbreathepostnatal.com

PEACE AND PAMPER Escape to Paris for a romantic getaway with the Mandarin Oriental’s new babymoon package. The hotel is offering expectant parents two nights with breakfast, spa treatments and a private aqua gym session. Top it off with dinner at the Michelin-starred Sur Mesure restaurant. £1,160 per night, mandarinoriental.com

SEVEN IN 10 PARENTS ARE PUT OFF THEIR FIRST HOLIDAY WITH BABY DUE TO THE AMOUNT OF STUFF THEY NEED TO TAKE WITH THEM, ACCORDING TO RESEARCH BY THE LUXURY FAMILY HOTELS GROUP. MANY DECIDE TO STAY CLOSE TO HOME, WITH 61% CHOOSING A UK STAYCATION. LUXURYFAMILYHOTELS.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 135

The restored manor house blends English country charm with modern touches

Kate Freud AND FAMILY VISIT TH E PAL ATIAL FOU R SE ASON S H OTEL FOR A WINTRY WEEKEN D

hough our arrival at the Four Seasons was not one of our finest – our youngest, Georgia, vomiting on a biblical scale as we drove up the hotel drive, leaving the rest of the family caught in the crossfire – thankfully it wasn’t an omen for the weekend to come.

From the moment we were helped from the car by a kindly doorman (who then spent half an hour helping clean up the aftermath), to our fond farewells with the hotel labrador on departure, the staff couldn’t have been more accommodating. And as for the hotel itself, where do I begin? Less than an hour’s drive from London, this Georgian pile oozes cosy, countryside charm, making you feel relaxed the moment you step inside.

On arrival to our beautiful suite, my kids did the obligatory bed-jumping and lying-in-the-empty-bath thing they do whenever we visit a swanky hotel, before their delight was complete with homemade cookies.

We headed down to the restaurant for supper with the children, who – we were thrilled to find – ate for free as they were under five. They enjoyed a mini feast before crashing out for the night. At which point, the hotel babysitter arrived, and my husband and I snuck downstairs to enjoy dinner à deux, feeling like we were a world away from everyday life.

The next morning, our room service breakfast arrived to squeals of delight at the sight of crispy bacon and the pastry basket – a perfect start to

T

the day before the adventures really began. The hotel is set in 500 acres, so we set off on bicycles to see the sights. It’s a truly beautiful place, where the kids ran free. They loved visiting the stables to see the hotel’s horses, and later, retreating from the chilly weather, we returned to the hotel for hot chocolate, before going for a swim in the heated pool.

For those with older children, there’s plenty to do, including clay pigeon shooting and falconry, and the hotel’s new Highwire Adventure. And for parents wanting a child-free break, you can book them into the Kids For All Seasons programme, a free service where guides will occupy your little ones with arts, crafts, treasure hunts and kite-flying, while you kick back in the spa. Not quite ready to leave our two yet, my husband Jack and I took it in turns to enjoy a little indulgence with an excellent massage.

The following day, after a morning of play, we dug into one of the tastiest Sunday The Four Seasons is lunches I’ve ever enjoyed. To located less an hour’s d than rive from L confirm the ‘best weekend ondon ever’ status given by my son, Jago, the hotel had a pudding cart where the kids chose from a selection of treats, stuffing their little faces to their hearts’ content. And thankfully this time, we made it back to London without any repercussions.

Double rooms from £295. Call 01252 853000 or visit fourseasons.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Jago and Georgia take their pick from the dedicated children’s buffet

ª Postcard from…

HAMPSHIRE

Jack and Jago make the most of the open space

Dip in the indoor-outdoor pool, anyone?

New little friends from Nattou

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babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC17 | 137

TRAVEL

Happy holidays FANC Y A CHANGE OF SCEN ERY THIS CH RISTMAS? Danielle Wilkins E XPLOR E S TH E BE ST PL ACE S TO H E AD FOR A WINTER BR E AK

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TRAVEL

SNOW

LAPLAND

The beautiful winter landscape and snow activities make Lapland a thrilling family destination

Finnish Lapland could be the holiday of your child’s dreams. As well as having the chance to meet Father Christmas, starry-eyed little ones can enjoy sleigh rides and snowmobiles, and get up close to reindeer, huskies and even Santa’s mischievous elves. You’ll find many tour operators offering breaks at this time of year, including Canterbury Travel, which offers stays at the resorts of Luosto and Pyhä. Both of these unspoilt villages are a sight to behold, with various accommodation options. For the ultimate in cosy Christmas chic, choose one of the open-plan log cabins, with log fire, kitchenette and sauna. Keep in mind that while babies under two are welcome, the nature of the terrain and the Arctic weather mean this could be one for walking toddlers. Packages from £1,125 per person, santa-holidays.com

COTSWOLDS

For a traditional country house Christmas filled with endless hot chocolates and mince pies in the library, crisp buggy-friendly walks around a 500-acre estate, and the chance to explore nearby Bath and its magical Christmas market, Lucknam Park makes an idyllic escape for families. Its dedicated Christmas packages include a festive afternoon tea with carols from the local parish choir, an appearance from Father Christmas in a Victorian horsedrawn carriage to deliver presents to your excitable toddler, and a visit to the Theatre Royal for panto, as well as a Boxing Day treasure hunt and black-tie dinner and dancing.

All the trimmings, indeed! Christmas package from £995 per room, lucknampark.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 139

TRAVEL

GSTAAD

For a postcard-worthy, snowy setting, this upscale resort town in the Swiss Alps couldn’t be more idyllic. And at the heart of it, Gstaad Palace is the perfect base to celebrate the festivities, as well as enjoy a range of ski and snowboarding activities. There’s fun to be had off the slopes, too, with visits to famous Swiss chocolatier Maison Cailler for chocolatemaking workshops, cosy horse and carriage rides through the town and star spotting at the nearby Igloo Village. Over Christmas, the hotel offers an array of activities for toddlers, with cookie-making classes, face painting, and a visit from the jolly present-giver himself on Christmas Eve. Rooms from £500 on a half-board basis, palace.ch

Have your very own fairytale Christmas in New York

NEW YORK

If you and baby are happy to take on the seven-hour flight, Christmas in NYC is spectacular – and for good reason. The sights, sounds and smells are unlike that of any other city, with so much to explore. Visit the iconic Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center, go ice skating in Central Park, enjoy a rendition of the Nutcracker on Broadway, and nibble your way through the New York Hall of Science’s Gingerbread Lane, a miniature village made from gingerbread, peppermints and icing.

And when you’ve had enough of the bustle, retreat to the newly opened Whitby Hotel in midtown Manhattan. Its dedicated family package includes complimentary cots, milk and cookies, games, DVDs and popcorn for those nights you just want to kick back in your swanky suite. Family package from approx £749 per room, firmdalehotels.com

TRAVEL

SUN

LANZAROTE

The Canary Islands are perfect for a spot of reliable winter sunshine, and with its golden beaches, wealth of family friendly hotels and short four-hour flight time, Lanzarote has so much to offer new parents. To ensure you actually get to relax, check into the Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel in the island’s prime resort of Playa Blanca. With spacious suites, plenty of action and a huge area dedicated to little ones, there is plenty to cater for young family members. And for those staying in a Royal Kiko suite, you’ll be treated to two hours of complimentary childcare, giving you the chance to hit the spa or enjoy a date-night dinner at the Isla de Lobos restaurant. Rooms from approx £352, princesayaiza.com

MALDIVES

The Maldives offers little ones some of the most imaginative activities around, with the chance to explore local marine wildlife, get creative with crafts and enjoy water play with the in-house babysitting service, leaving you free to snorkel, eat, sleep, spa, sundowner, and repeat. For pure paradise, the all-villa St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is nestled on a private island, just a 40-minute seaplane flight from Malé. The beachside family villas, designed to resemble traditional dhoni boats, are perfect for those with babies, while the two- and three-bedroom villas can accommodate extended family, au pairs or nannies. And while the stunning Iridium Spa is strictly a childfree zone, under-threes are supplied with their own Burt’s Bees skincare so they can enjoy a little pampering too. Rooms from £940, stregismaldives.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 141

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TRAVEL Make time to enjoy Mansour Eddahbi’s wellness facilities, too, including the Ô de Rose spa

MARRAKECH

With Instagram-worthy gardens to explore, colourful souks to shop and scenic tours of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is a veritable feast for the senses at any time of year. In winter, temperatures reach the early to midtwenties – ideal for escaping the winter blues and exploring comfortably with baby in tow.

The city boasts a wealth of luxury hotels, including the newly restored Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi, which launched its new family programme this year. The five-star property is located just minutes from the vibrant Medina. Pack light, as you’ll have all the essentials you’ll need on demand – including baby baths, night lights and travel cots, leaving more suitcase space for all that shopping.

Rooms from approx £128, movenpick.com

DUBAI

If you’re happy to travel further out, Dubai is a hit with families seeking guaranteed sun.

For one, the country’s modern standard of living means you’ll find all your usual creature comforts, plus there are plenty of outdoor playgrounds and efficient public transport. For a festive retreat, the recently opened Dukes Dubai, on the west trunk of Palm Jumeirah, has a quintessentially British feel that’ll remind you of home, sans the nippy weather. It also boasts its own beach with skyline views over the Marina, various food and drink outlets and facilities for toddlers. The Dukesy Kids’ Club will offer age-appropriate activities, essential baby kit, healthy snacks and even adorable baby bathrobes and slippers – because baby deserves to holiday in luxury too, right?

Rooms from £200, dukesdubai.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 143

North Bridge House Nursery, Pre-Preparatory, Preparatory, Senior and Sixth Form Schools

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Full event details on the website

Book onto an Autumn Term open event today northbridgehouse.com/open admissionsenquiries@northbridgehouse.com

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education

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

EDUCATION

NEWS

EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM

IT TAKES TWO

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.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARCUS HARVEY

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700.

The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

North Kensington schools Avondale Park Primary and St Anne’s Nursery have merged sites after a significant refurbishment. The upgrade includes four new classrooms, a community hall, staff and pupil facilities and a dedicated entrance lobby, with environmentally friendly techniques being the primary focus of the project. apsafederation.com

ODD ONE OUT Challenge your toddler with Bastien Contraire’s latest board book, Vehicles Hide and Sneak.

Amongst the different types of transport, there’s an animal hiding on each page – like a ladybird disguised as a car, or an eagle flying amidst the aeroplanes. See if your little one can spot the object that shouldn’t be there. £9.95, Phaidon

STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY The youngest pupils at St Benedict’s in Ealing have been enjoying their brand new Junior School building, which opened this term. The eco-friendly facility was built to meet strict energy requirements, with an insulated timber frame. The classrooms can be opened up to create an area for shared teaching, and there’s an outdoor learning space, too. stbenedicts.org.uk

This vibrant board book will exercise categorisation skills and visual acuity

THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS SHOW RETURNS FOR ANOTHER YEAR ON SATURDAY 11 AND SUNDAY 12 NOVEMBER AT BATTERSEA PARK, WHERE THE EXPERTS WILL BE ON HAND TO ANSWER YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS ABOUT PRIVATE EDUCATION. REGISTER NOW FOR FREE TICKETS. SCHOOLSSHOW.COM

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 145

EDUCATION

MEET THE HEAD How long have you been at Chinthurst School?

I joined Chinthurst in March, when the school became part of the Reigate Grammar School (RGS) family. I had joined RGS’s junior school, Reigate St Mary’s, in 2007 and was deputy head for seven years. I loved the atmosphere there and was delighted to have the opportunity to take up a headship within the RGS group at a school with a very similar feel.

The children at Chinthurst make me smile every day!

Can you tell us a little bit about the school’s history?

The school was founded in 1908

by Miss Alice Atkins, in an old perfume factory. Two years later she purchased a farmer’s field in Tadworth and constructed a large building to house the increasing number of pupils. The school remains on this site today and has grown into a modern, forward-thinking prep. We hope that Miss Atkins would be pleased to know that her original school building is still at the heart of it.

What do you see as the school’s

146 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

CATHY TRUNDLE Chinthurst School

main strengths?

We are proud of our reputation as a caring, family school with excellent academics. This year our 11-plus results were outstanding and our Year 6 pupils went on to a range of top independent and state schools, many with scholarships for academics, music, sport and art. More than that, they left as well-rounded individuals ready to embrace the next set of challenges and with an enthusiasm for life that is very much a reflection of Chinthurst.

The school is now in the fortunate position that it can thrive and grow within the supportive framework of the RGS family and our Year 5 pupils can benefit from early offer entrance arrangements to RGS, should this be their chosen path.

How do you nurture learning in the Early Years?

Our ‘Little Chicks’ have a gentle introduction to school life within a caring and stimulating environment that encourages learning through fun and rewarding play activities. The learning journey is continued in Kindergarten and, as the children develop, they benefit from a wealth of activities and experiences.

We have a fully qualified Forest School teacher and the children enjoy enormously the regular outdoor Forest School sessions. Specialist music and games lessons each week are great fun and the children love using their own ICT suite and the interactive whiteboards. They reach Reception as enthusiastic

learners where a significant boost to the pace of learning is facilitated by excellent teacher to child ratios. I always enjoy visiting the Reception classrooms and watching how the pupils and staff interact. Whether they are collecting conkers or working on their phonics, the children are clearly secure and happy, and that is the best foundation for learning they can get.

What’s coming up for Chinthurst School in 2018?

It is an exciting time for us! Our numbers have grown significantly this academic year and we have plans to continue to improve our beautiful school site and expand our children’s opportunities.

The best way for prospective parents to find out about the excellent education we offer is to come to one of our regular open mornings or arrange a private tour and see the teachers and children at work, happy and engaged in their learning experiences.

52 Tadworth Street, Tadworth KT20 5QZ. 01737 812011, chinthurstschool.co.uk

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OurOur branches: Our branches: branches: Hampstead Hampstead Hampstead Garden Garden Garden Suburb Suburb Suburb Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb Our branches: Garden Suburb Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb • Belsize • Belsize •Hampstead Park Belsize Park • Holland Park • Holland • Holland ParkPark Park Belsize Park • Holland Belsize Park Holland Park • ••Belsize Park • Holland Park Contact Contact Contact us today us today usPark today Contact us today Contact us us today Contact today hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com 8 St8James’s St 8James’s St James’s Gardens Gardens Gardens W11W11 4RB W11 4RB 4RB James’s Gardens 8StSt StJames’s James’s Gardens Gardens W11 W11 4RB 88 W114RB 4RB

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Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb Ofsted Outstanding

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Hawkesdown House School

For boys aged 3 to 8 years

Endeavour Courage Truth

Developing Self-Esteem & Independence Stimulating Curriculum Claremont Fan Court School Healthy Meals Freshly Prepared Daily Pre-Preparatory Bi-lingual Nursery

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

An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

and Nursery School

Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb •Belsize Park • Holland Park Contact us today hollandpark@kerensnursery.com 8 St James’s Gardens W11 4RB

Children join the Pre-Nursery class in the term they turn three.

Please come and visit us.

To arrange an appointment, telephone 01372 463695 or email preprepschool@claremont.surrey.sch.uk

www.kerensnursery.com

Claremont Fan Court School Claremont Drive Esher Surrey KT10 9LY

www.claremont-school.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC17 | 147

INDEPENDENT DAY SCHO OL FOR GIRL S AGED 4 TO 18 — Queen’s Gate School offers girls a warm, supportive environment where individuality is nurtured, academic standards are high and a broad-based curriculum ensures a well-rounded education.

A range of scholarships and means-tested bursaries are available to assist girls to join us and parents are welcome to visit us throughout the year.

Details of Open Events for entry to the Junior and Senior Schools are available on our website.

For a prospectus or to arrange a visit, please contact the Registrar, Miss Isabel Carey: — registrar@queensgate.org.uk · 020 7594 4982 queensgate.org.uk/admissions

Queen’s Gate School, 131–133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE

CHINTHURST SCHOOL

chinthurstschool.co.uk

Start the journey that will last a lifetime

Open Days 9 Nov & 25 Jan

Outstanding 11+ Results 2017

Co-educational school for children aged 3-11 years 52 Tadworth Street, Tadworth, Surrey, KT20 5QZ admissions@chinthurstschool.co.uk Telephone 01737 812011 @Chintschool

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facebook.com/ChinthurstSchool

Part of the Reigate Grammar School Family

OUT AND ABOUT

mini

AGENDA

Lianne Kolirin ROU N DS U P TH E CAPITAL’S BE ST EVENTS

PHOTOGRAPHY: JEFF EDEN/RBG KEW

Christmas at Kew

Christmas at Kew

Boing!

Christmas Market

KEW GARDENS Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE 020 8332 5655 kew.org

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com

HORNIMAN MUSEUM & GARDENS 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 horniman.ac.uk

There’s something for everyone at this after-dark experience, where fairytale meets fantasy in a world of magical flora, giant baubles and a flickering fire garden. Kew’s mile-long trail winds its way through trees and buildings, and boasts more than a million twinkling lights.

Admission: Adults, from £16; children, from £10; under-fours go free.

Wednesday 22 November to Monday 1 January, 5pm to 10pm.

This piece of dance theatre captures the excitement of two boys waiting for Santa to arrive on the most magical night of the year. There are beds to be jumped on, pillows to fight with, seas to sail… the show is filled with colourful images and playful sounds.

Admission: From £12 each.

Wednesday 22 November to Sunday 31 December, performance times vary.

Enjoy a special late-night Christmas shopping experience with gorgeous gifts, mulled wine, workshops and plenty of festive tunes for the family.

The museum will be filled with stalls and products from local designers, craft breweries, music and dancing.

Admission: Free.

Thursday 7 December, 5.30pm to 9.30pm.

Bach to Baby Festive Family Concert ST. PAUL’S COVENT GARDEN Bedford Street, London WC2E 9ED bachtobaby.com Get your friends together to enjoy a perfect prelude to the holiday season, with one of Bach to Baby’s acclaimed family concerts. This classical music session features outstanding musicians and exhilarating festive-themed performances.

Admission: £12 each.

Monday 18 December, 11am; Wednesday 20 December, 11am and 3pm.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 149

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Battersea Park Fireworks

The Lord Mayor’s Show

Disney on Ice: Passport to Adventure

Disney on Ice: Passport to Adventure THE O2 ARENA Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX 0844 338 0338 disneyonice.co.uk Explore the African Pride Lands with Simba, Timon and Pumbaa, voyage to Ariel’s underwater kingdom, and tour London with Peter Pan and Wendy before flying to Neverland to meet Tinker Bell. The cast will also whisk you away to the wintry wonderland of Disney’s Frozen.

Admission: From 32.50 each.

Wednesday 20 to Saturday 30 December, times vary.

Hamleys Christmas Toy Parade

Battersea Park Fireworks

Twinkle Twinkle

BATTERSEA PARK London SW11 4NJ enablelc.org/fireworks

HALF MOON THEATRE 43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND 020 7709 8900 halfmoon.org.uk

It’s going to have to be ‘remember, remember the 4th of November’ for this dazzling annual display. Watch the sky light up above the capital for this colourful whizzing, fizzing and popping night show. Come hungry as there’s plenty on offer to eat and drink. Advance booking required.

Admission: £10 each; under-10s go free but must have a ticket.

Saturday 4 November, from 6pm; bonfire lighting, 7.30pm; fireworks, from 8pm.

Parent & Baby Cinema

REGENT STREET London W1 hamleys.com

WATERMANS ARTS CENTRE 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS watermans.org.uk

Everyone’s favourite characters come to life as London’s greatest toy shop puts on a festive show. Head down to Regent Street for the largerthan-life parade, but be prepared for crowds, especially with a buggy in tow.

Admission: Free.

Sunday 19 November, 10.30am.

Check out these relaxed screenings of the latest films for parents or carers with babies under one. There’s baby changing and plenty of buggy parking in the foyer, as well as a café for post-film coffee.

Admission: £7 per baby and accompanying adult.

Every Wednesday, 11.30am.

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Twinkle Twinkle is an adventure in music and light, featuring brilliant puppetry and an original score for babies aged one to three years. Admission also includes a play session.

Admission: £7 per child and accompanying adult, Saturday 11 November, 1pm and 3pm.

The Lord Mayor’s Show MANSION HOUSE London EC4N 8BH lordmayorsshow.london Every year, the new Lord Mayor travels through the streets of London to Westminster to swear loyalty to the Crown.

The procession sets off from Mansion House and returns via Victoria Embankment at 1pm.

Later, there will be celebratory fireworks over the Thames.

Admission: Free; Grandstand seats, £39 each.

Saturday 11 November. River pageant, from 9am; procession, 11am; fireworks, from 5.15pm.

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy CROUCH END PICTUREHOUSE 165 Tottenham Lane, London N8 9BY 020 3524 0236 byobcomedy.com Round up some friends and have a laugh without the worry, at this baby-friendly comedy club. Soft flooring, toys, bugging parking and changing facilities are provided, so you can relax and be entertained.

Admission: £10 per baby and accompanying adult.

Tuesday 7 November, 10.30am to 11.45am.

Baby to Toddler Show EXCEL LONDON 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London E16 1XL babytotoddlerevents.co.uk Dubbed the ultimate shopping event for modern parents, this weekend extravaganza promises all the must-have products to see you through the early years.

Admission: Adults, £12; under-16s go free.

Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 November, 10am to 5pm.

OUT AND ABOUT

Jazz For Toddlers

Christmas at Legoland

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

Tales on Tour

Jazz For Toddlers

Tales on Tour

Hush-A-Bye

Christmas at Legoland

SOUTHBANK CENTRE Royal Festival Hall, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 020 3879 9555 efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk

WILTON’S MUSIC HALL 1 Graces Alley, Whitechapel, London E1 8JB chickenshed.org.uk

ARTSDEPOT 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, London N12 0GA 020 8369 5454 artsdepot.co.uk

LEGOLAND RESORT Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY 0845 373 2640 legoland.co.uk

This multisensory production features music, puppets and the sights and sounds of a wooded wonderland, following the story of Oily Cart’s treetop world, with special showings for babies aged six months to two.

Admission: £11 each.

Thursday 14, Saturday 16, Tuesday 19, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 December, 10.30am.

Board the Bricksmas Express and discover an enchanted land where you can meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto.

In Miniland, Christmas comes to life with new miniature festive additions, while families can take part in a scavenger hunt and marvel at the giant tree.

Admission: From £35 each.

Saturday 2 and Sunday 3, Saturday 9 and Sunday 10, and Saturday 16 to Sunday 24 December.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CLIVE TOTMAN; ELYSE MARKS; PAMELA RAITH

Part of the annual EFG London Jazz Festival, this workshop for children aged two to five years returns with more fun from musicians Chris Sharkey and Heidi Heidelberg. The session includes music and movement, as well as ideas to try at home.

Admission: £5 per child and accompanying adult.

Friday 17 November, 1.30pm.

Tales from the Shed is back at Wilton’s Music Hall by popular demand. The Chickenshed’s interactive theatre shows are perfect for toddlers, who are encouraged to join in with the singing, dancing and puppetry.

Admission: £6 each; babies under six months go free.

Thursday 9 to Saturday 11 November, 11.30am.

Spirit of Christmas Fair

Far, Far Away: Tchaikovsky and the Marvellous Kingdom

OLYMPIA LONDON Hammersmith Road, London W14 8UX spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk

KING’S PLACE 90 York Way, Kings Cross, London N1 9AG kingsplace.co.uk

AMBASSADORS THEATRE West Street, London WC2H 9ND hungrycaterpillarshow.com

Have Christmas all wrapped up at the UK’s biggest high-end festive shopping event, featuring stylish gifts for families and the home. There will be workshops, too, plus a food hall to feed the kids.

Admission: Adults, £24; children, £14; under-12s go free.

Monday 30 October to Sunday 5 November.

Featuring new chamber arrangements of Tchaikovsky’s enchanting ballet music, join the Aurora Orchestra for an immersive performance for children aged up to four years.

Admission: Adults, £8.50; children, £6.50.

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 November; Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December.

One of the most iconic characters in children’s literature will be wiggling his way back into the West End this Christmas with a four-week run.

Some of Eric Carle’s other tales are also featured in this delightful puppet show.

Admission: From £15 each.

Wednesday 13 December to Sunday 7 January, times vary.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

Roman Toga Party Family Rave MANGLE E8 13-18 Warburton Road, Hackney, London E8 3FN bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk Get all dressed up for this ancient-inspired party, complete with glitter cannons, multisensory dancefloor, live DJs, bubbles and more.

Admission: Adults, £9; children, £6; non-walkers go free.

Sunday 19 November, 2pm.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 151

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OUT AND ABOUT

Winter Wonderland

HYDE PARK London W2 hydeparkwinter wonderland.com Expect all the family favourites plus plenty of new attractions to keep the kids sparkly-eyed this year. Meet Santa, board the rides or pop along to see Cinderella on Ice or The Sooty Christmas Show – just be sure to book ahead.

Admission: Free. Tickets for specific attractions cost extra.

Friday 17 November to Monday 1 January, 10am to 10pm.

Animal Magic V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA 020 8983 5200 vam.ac.uk Enjoy multisensory storytelling inspired by well-loved animal tales especially for early years children. If there’s still time, borrow one of the museum’s Montessori family packs to make the most out of your visit.

Admission: Free.

Monday to Friday, 2pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10.30am.

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My Brother, My Sister and Me POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com This playful new show is based on conversations with young children about their own sibling relationships, and has been designed to keep children aged two to five years enthralled.

Admission: £12.50 each.

Until Sunday 11 February, times vary.

Christmas Carols on Trafalgar Square TRAFALGAR SQUARE London WC2N 5DN london.gov.uk/events Babies and little ones will be enchanted by the mesmerising sound of carol singing in the capital’s iconic Trafalgar Square.

Over the festive period nearly 40 different groups of singers will entertain crowds beneath the square’s famous tree.

Admission: Free.

Monday 11 to Friday 22 December. Monday to Friday, 4pm to 8pm; Saturday and Sunday, 2pm to 6pm.

includes FREE iPad access

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babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC17 | 153

A SELEC TION OF

LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

Groups & Classes

ACTIVITIES

154 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

TAILORED PILATES CLASSES

FOR LITTLE LEARNERS

Classes across London As the first private clinic in London to run Pilates classes back in the ’80s, and with over 230 classes a week, Six Physio has the capital covered.

The machine- and mat-based Pilates classes offer a session which is tailored to you, not the person next to you. With only three people per class, the qualified physios can encourage you to work harder, knowing the exercises are safe and effective for your body.

The tailored nature of these classes means they are suitable for both antenatal and postnatal, so be sure to give Six Physio a call and book an initial assessment to get your programme started.

020 7036 0286 sixphysio.com

Workshops across London Check out the Little Discovery classes for ages six months to 24 months old.

These allow babies to explore their senses with music, colours and shapes.

Little Maths Rhythm & Shapes and Little Science are two after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps into the world of numbers and science that much easier. The Little Maths workshops, for two to four year olds, builds their confidence with numbers.

While the Little Science workshop, for ages three to 11 years, introduces new scientific concepts through discussions and experiments. Visit the website for a timetable of workshops throughout the winter months.

0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com

AS SOON AS YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN PLAY FOOTBALL

FUN FRENCH LESSONS FOR CHILDREN

Classes across London Offering the very best football coaching for children aged 18 months to 10 years, Kiddikicks involves the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Join up and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks football classes. There are also sporty birthday parties with a variety of themes for children aged three and up, private and holiday classes, and nursery and after-school sessions.

Sign up to receive your mini player’s free kit (registration fees apply).

Plus, quote ‘Baby London’ when you sign up to receive an extra 5% off!

020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk

Chelsea, Putney, Notting Hill and St John’s Wood/Maida Vale Club Petit Pierrot, London’s premier French club since 1993, offers innovative, stimulating immersive programmes for children from eight months old. Led by a team of passionate and qualified native teachers, children will flourish and learn French effortlessly while having fun with a wide range of activities, including contemporary music from the company’s educational CD. Language experts agree that learning a second language early in life enhances overall cognitive skills and improves brain development.

020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

ACTIVITIES

EXPERT-LED POSTNATAL COURSES FOR PARENTS

COULD YOU HELP A CHOKING CHILD?

AWARD-WINNING AND INTERACTIVE CLASSES

Weekend courses in London Expecting your first baby? Going through a difficult period with your toddler?

The Parenting Chapter provides a programme of expert-led, Londonbased postnatal courses aimed at expectant and new parents, and parents with toddlers. The programme is split into four chapters: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 7-12 months and 12+ months. Using a combination of traditional and modern techniques, each chapter covers all the potential hurdles that parents may encounter with their first and subsequent children at each age and stage, empowering them with practical and impartial advice and solutions. lauren@theparentingchapter.com theparentingchapter.com

Classes across London Every year, thousands of parents choose First Aid for Life to empower them with the skills to help their child in an emergency. Join a course in the company’s training room, or book a bespoke course at a time and place to suit you. The medical professionals run informative, reassuring, handson training. Learn CPR, how to help if your baby chokes and first aid for common injuries. Everyone receives comprehensive first aid manuals, CPR flow charts and certificates, and the paedriatic courses fulfil Ofsted requirements for child carers. Quote ‘Baby London’ to receive a free preschool first aid kit with your booking.

020 8675 4036 firstaidforlife.org.uk

LIVE JAZZ GIGS FOR BABIES

ANTENATAL AND POSTNATAL TWINS CLASSES

Classes across London Gymboree Play & Music’s commitment to quality is unsurpassed, and every day thousands of parents and carers across the UK choose its classes because they want the best for their little ones.

The team has a simple goal: to provide the best Play & Learn, Art and Music classes for newborns to five year olds in the world! With more than 40 years of experience behind the brand, the classes and activities are based on a blend of early childhood development theories and years of hands-on experience.

Gymboree Play & Music’s triedand-tested formula of physical, social, sensory and imaginary elements make for 45 minutes of fun. Enjoy challenging and age-appropriate activities which will help your little one through the crucial early stages. Themes, props and set-ups change frequently.

Members also get exclusive access to Open Gym free-play sessions on site. Little ones can bring an adult along with them to play in a clean, colourful and safe environment with purpose-built equipment. Art classes are for children from 18 months and allow them to demonstrate their artistic flair. Selfexpression and creativity are inspired by painting, drawing, printing and more. Music classes run for ages six months plus, using a global mix of language and genres.

Sensory Baby Play classes are for newborns onwards, and feature physical stimulation from a varied mix of props. Little ones become attentive and interested through songs, tactile play and physical games.

Free trial classes are available at Bromley, Chiswick, Docklands, Ealing, East Dulwich, Hampstead, Harrow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Putney, Wandsworth and Wimbledon. gymboreeclasses.co.uk

Across South West London As cool as a baby group can be, Jazzabyebabies offers music you and your baby will love. The Jazzabyebabies musicians come from top London music colleges and play a range of traditional jazz with a cheeky injection of original Jazzabyebabies songs that you and your baby can sing along to. With amazing musicians, baby percussion instruments, play parachutes and bubbles, Jazzabyebabies is like a mini jazz café, brimming with friendliness where your baby can play and you can get comfy on beanbags. There’s even free homemade cake! Online tickets are just £5, and private birthday parties can be booked over the phone.

020 8788 7014 jazzabybabies.com

Classes across London As the UK’s only specialised service for new and expectant parents of twins, triplets and multiples, Twin Love Concierge is certified by the International Maternity & Parenting Institute™, and most importantly, is run by mothers of twins.

Whether you’re expecting twins or are in your first year of parenthood, there is a group or class for you. Twin Love Concierge also offers maternity concierge including nursery design, baby planning, registry creation and more. Join a local class to meet other parents, or get in touch for your complimentary pre-consultation.

07460 712 580 info@twinloveconcierge.com twinloveconcierge.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 155

COMPETITIONS

CHANCE TO WIN

Exclusive competitions and offers for Baby London readers A MEMORY CASE FROM MEMINIO, WORTH £125

A NEW BRITAX HOLIDAY PUSHCHAIR, WORTH £120

Christmas is all about cherishing those precious memories, and what better way to keep them than in this beautifully crafted memory case from Meminio. From first shoes and babygrows to hospital bands and pregnancy scans, this luxurious leather case, lined with gorgeous printed fabric, is a perfect new-baby gift, and you could win one in cream! meminio.com

Whether it’s an outing to the local park or swimming pool, or seeing the sights during a family Christmas getaway, parents and little ones alike will be wellprepared for their next adventure with the latest addition to Britax’s pushchair offering, the Britax Holiday. Suitable for babies from six months to 15kg (approximately three years), it weighs in at only 5kg, is free-standing when folded, and comes with a handy carry strap allowing for simple and comfortable over-the-shoulder transportation.

Britax is offering Baby London readers the chance to win a Britax Holiday in a colour of their choice; Cosmos Black, Coral Peach, Aqua Green, Flame Red, Ocean Blue or Steel Grey. britax.co.uk

A TOMMEE TIPPEE BABY FOOD STEAMER BLENDER WITH METANIUM

ONE OF TWO LUXURY LAYETTE SETS

Introducing your baby to solid foods usually starts when your little one is around six months old. And now, to make weaning even easier, Metanium is giving away two Tommee Tippee Baby Food Steamer Blenders, worth £107 each.

Remember, any change in baby’s diet can lead to runny stools which may in turn cause nappy rash.

Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment and Easy Spray Barrier Lotion provide daily protection from nappy rash, while Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is licensed specifically to treat nappy rash. Please note, Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine, so always be sure to read the label. metanium.co.uk

Blue Almonds, the luxury baby boutique on London’s Walton Street, is celebrating its 10th birthday this year and to mark this milestone, is delighted to announce an exclusive collaboration with American baby brand Kissy Kissy. The labels have created a limited-edition Blue Almonds x Kissy Kissy layette collection comprising a hat, bib, babygrow and blanket, in their choice of grey, prink or blue. Worth £89 each. bluealmonds.co.uk

ENTER ONLINE AT BABYLONDON.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS 156 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

Lotus Maternity aims to provide premium quality, naturally sourced and unique, UK made nursing tops, designed ‘by midwives for mothers.’

View our award winning, debut range today at:

www.lotusmaternity.co.uk enquiries@lotusmaternity.co.uk • 07722 921660 @lotusmaternity

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158 | NOV/DEC17 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOPPING

London

Boutiques

FOR TH E FIN E ST SELEC TION OF HAN D -PICKED LON DON BOUTIQU E S, H ER E’S OU R SH OPPING GUIDE

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 159

BONPOINT

Bonpoint has to be the haute couture of children’s fashion, with in-house design studios and stores all over the globe. Under the artistic direction of Christine Innamorato, each piece from the Parisian boutique is meticulously hand-crafted to exacting standards. Its clothing features signature detailing and unrivalled quality fabrics, catering for stylish boys and girls ranging in age, from newborn to young teenagers.

STORES ACROSS LONDON bonpoint.com

PETIT BATEAU

Petit Bateau is renowned for its chic, pared-back aesthetic, and uses only the finest quality cottons to create iconic, timeless staples for babies, adults and children, from soft knitwear to classic Breton-stripe tees. A Baby London favourite, it remains the go-to destination for discerningly stylish parents in the capital who yearn for an injection of classic Gallic chic for their family’s wardrobe.

STORES ACROSS LONDON petit-bateau.co.uk

JOJO MAMAN BÉBÉ

With its vast and competitively priced collections, JoJo Maman Bébé has everything you could possibly need for young family life; from maternity, baby and childrenswear to toys, home décor and everything in between. Whether you’re hunting down a pair of mini snow boots for a family skiing holiday or practical toy storage solutions, you’ll find them here. Some stores even have drawing areas to keep little ones occupied, so shopping will be enjoyable for all the family.

STORES ACROSS LONDON jojomamanbebe.co.uk

THE LITTLE WHITE COMPANY

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

STORES ACROSS LONDON thewhitecompany.com

WILD & GORGEOUS

Designing for both girls and boys from newborn to 15 years old, Wild & Gorgeous has proven a hit with families worldwide. Luckily for London parents, the brand’s flagship store is in the heart of bustling Notting Hill, where you can browse the beautiful clothes and accessories to your heart’s content, with a second boutique in Primrose Hill.

52 LEDBURY ROAD, LONDON W11 2AJ 73 REGENT’S PARK ROAD, LONDON NW1 8UY wildandgorgeous.co.uk

RACHEL RILEY

The royals can’t get enough of Rachel Riley’s traditionally-inspired pieces for infants, girls, boys and mamas, which are beautifully crafted and feature hand-embroidery and vintage prints. And we’re spoilt in London, with two charming boutiques to choose from. These authentic stores are the perfect place to head if you’re looking for something that little bit special.

82 MARYLEBONE HIGH STREET, LONDON W1U 4QW 14 PONT STREET, LONDON SW1X 9EN rachelriley.co.uk

160 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOPPING

LA COQUETA

ON LIN E

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 cosy knits and sweet accessories just perfect for the new season.

5 HEATH STREET, LONDON NW3 6TP lacoquetakids.com

SCANDIBØRN

ON LIN E

For those who love the Nordic aesthetic, Scandibørn is the name to know. Launched only last year, the family-run online retailer stocks a whole host of Scandinavian brands, plenty of which are new and exclusive to the UK market. You can shop for everything from clothing and shoes to nursery furniture and toys. Some of our favourites labels include Cam Cam Copenhagen and Ooh Noo. scandiborn.co.uk

ALEX AND ALEXA

Home to more than 200 fashion, sportswear and toy brands from across the world, Alex and Alexa is one of the coolest online boutiques around. Founded a decade ago by husband and wife team Alex Theophanous and Alexa Till, the site remains dedicated to offering parents ‘the world’s best kids’ brands’ at the click of button. alexandalexa.com

ON LIN E

SCARLET RIBBON MERINO

STOCKISTS

PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY

Keep your little one warm in the winter and cool in the summer by wrapping them up in nature’s best. Scarlet Ribbon Merino makes knitted daywear for babies aged up to 18 months from the finest merino wool. Combining quality with everyday practicality, Scarlet Ribbon’s knitwear is versatile and long-lasting; something to treasure and pass down to younger siblings. scarletribbonmerino.com

Vivienne wears cotton-blend dress, £98, Amaia.

Alex and Alexa

alexandalexa.com

Amaia

amaiakids.co.uk

Bonpoint

bonpoint.com

Caramel

caramel-shop.co.uk

Cath Kidston

cathkidston.com

Childrensalon

childrensalon.com

Emile et Rose

emile-et-rose.co.uk

H&M

hm.com

Harrods

harrods.com

Luna & Curious

lunaandcurious.com

Next

next.co.uk

Nine in the Mirror

nineinthemirror.com

Olivier Baby and Kids

olivierbaby.com

Patachou

patachou.com

Pepa & Co

pepaandcompany.com

Velveteen

velveteenclothing.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2017 | 161

BUSINESS

The brand offers beautifully designed maternity and nursing outfits and accessories

The Duchess wore Séraphine for Prince George’s first official photos

INSPIRE

What sparked your passion for women’s clothing?

When I started to look into it, I couldn’t believe how limited the maternity fashion industry was at the time. Then, the more research I did, the more excited I got. I had so many ideas of how to improve things, and I started to realise that I could make a real difference in women’s lives. Pregnancy is a time of amazing change, but holding on to your sense of style is a great way of staying in touch with your own identity, even when your body is changing in ways beyond your control.

Describe a typical day for you.

I travel quite often, and tend to flit between our stores in London, New York, Paris, Hong

162 | NOV/DEC 2017 | babylondon.co.uk

CECILE REINAUD The French-born founder of maternity brand Séraphine talks family, to-do lists and ultimate career highlights Kong and Dubai, as well as visiting suppliers in other countries, though I always love coming back to our office in London.

Some days I’ll be speaking with journalists, other days I’ll have planning meetings with my design team, or I’ll be overseeing shoots.

There’s never a dull moment!

What’s the best thing about your job?

Working on creative ideas with my team is what I enjoy most. We The award-winning brand is set for even more growth

are a diverse team of nationalities and backgrounds, and we get on so well. It feels like an extended family, and I love that.

How do you juggle family life with work?

I’d be lying if I said it was easy!

I have two sons, Lorenz, who’s 13, and Florian, nine, and in the early days I used to get frustrated about not having enough time.

My trick now is to make a list of 10 things I want to achieve in a day, then to cross out the four least urgent and accept that they can wait. That way, I find that I have more positive energy for both my family and the business.

What’s been your proudest moment?

There have been so

many! Seraphine has dressed some of the most glamorous bumps in the world, from Anne Hathaway to Jessica Alba and Gwen Stefani. But my proudest moment has to be the day that the Duchess of Cambridge chose our fuchsia Knot Front maternity dress for her first official pictures with Prince George. It was an incredibly proud day for all of us!

What advice would you give to mothers wanting to launch their own brand?

Expect a lot of hard work.

Entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted – things won’t always go to plan and you’ll have to learn to think on your feet and bounce back quickly from setbacks. That said, if you have an idea you are passionate about, the rewards are worth the effort.

What can we expect from Séraphine next year?

Next season’s collections are coming together beautifully, I’ll also be expanding our babywear range and I’m looking to open a flagship store in LA. seraphine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL MIDDLETON/WPA POOL/GETTY IMAGES

Why did you set up Séraphine?

It all started when I was working as an advertising director at J. Walter Thompson. I used to hear pregnant friends and colleagues complaining about how few options they had when it came to maternity clothes.

That’s when I spotted a gap in the market for stylish maternity wear and I decided to fill it!

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