baby london BABYLONDON.CO.UK
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016
Kate Silverton THE BBC STAR ON HAVING KIDS AND A CAREER
SLEEP EASY How to achieve your
DOING IT FOR DADS The fathers taking inspiration from their children
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IMPORTANT NOTICE *NANNYcare® Follow on milk is only suitable for babies from 6 months, to complement breastfeeding or the start of weaning, as part of a varied and balanced diet. It is not intended as a breast milk substitute and is not suitable for babies under 6 months. It is recommended that NANNYcare Follow on milk is used only on the advice of a doctor, midwife, health visitor, public health nurse, dietitian, pharmacist,or other professional responsible for maternal and child care,based on your baby’s individual needs.NANNYcare Growing up milk is for young children between 1-3 years as part of a healthy balanced diet. Goat milk formula is not suitable for infants with a cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a suitably qualified healthcare professional.
CONTENTS JAN/FEB 2016
46
Dress your mini me to match your pregnancy style
76
Design Letters – Arne Jacobsen, 28 ABC wooden cubes, £60, The Kid Who
PHOTOGRAPHY: ABI CAMPBELL
FEATURES
42 FAMILY MATTERS BBC newsreader and mum of two Kate Silverton tells us why her kids come first 60 NAMING DAY Celebrate your new arrival with party expert Carole Middleton’s top tips 62 DADPRENEURS Rebecca Moore chats to three dads who mixed babies with business 80 LOST AND FOUND After three miscarriages, Kitty Galsworthy tells us about the joy of motherhood 83 SITTING COMFORTABLY The lowdown on car seats from Which?
89 TOT GEAR Get in line! We review the revamped Phil & Ted’s Dot 92 IT’S ENERGY O’CLOCK Feel amazing all day with nutritionist Louise Pyne’s round-the-clock guide 95 WORK IT BABY! The best classes for bump and beyond 106 ROCK THAT ROUTINE How to achieve your little one’s routine 141 BORN READY The new phenomenon of planning your child’s schooling from the womb
STYLE
46 RISE AND SHINE Muted meets metallics
27
56 SHOP THE SHOOT Get the look with some subtle shine 68 BLOOMING LOVELY Eimear Varian Barry models the ultimate in maternity fashion 76 SHOP THE SHOOT Look the part with our edit
SHOPPING
25 BABY LONDON LOVES Bag yourself this baby essential 27 SHOP THE HOUSE Style ideas for all baby’s rooms 59 SOMETHING TO TREASURE Bespoke jewellery for a new arrival 79 SIMPLY THE BREAST Maternity bras under the spotlight
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 9
Editor Susannah Warren Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Senior Sub Editor Sally Hales Editorial Assistant Lily Smith Senior Art Editor Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Pio Blanco Designer Maria Sagun Contributing Editors Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton
68
Client Development Manager Lesley McDiarmid Sales Executives Amy Thacker, Harriet Cottrell, Helena Murphy
112 YOURS TO KEEP Interior pieces that stand the test of time 117 SCENTSATION Indulge in the finest candles this winter
Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby London is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd,
FOOD
Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: babylondon.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: editorial@littlemedia.co.uk
Discover a dream
REGULARS
17
35
TRAVEL
129 TRAVEL NEWS Prepare to pack your bags 132 FOLLOW THE SUN Where to stave off the winter blues 134 A POSTCARD FROM... A Cornish retreat is the ideal babymoon 137 BEST OF CORNWALL Our guide to the coastal county
38 98
102 105
108 110 139 145
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152 162
Choose the right car seat for your little one with our definitive guide 10 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
babymoon (p.134)
BABY NEWS Stay in the know MY ESSENTIALS We chat to new mum Georgina Cohen BEST BOOKS FOR BABIES Light reading for the year ahead IT’S ALL MILK, ISN’T IT? Louisa van den Bergh explains the difference between hind and foremilk MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals TIME TO TALK... The second instalment from Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt on c-sections DIARY OF A MUM Becky Dickinson says a tearful goodbye THE REVIEW Laura Mason tests out thermometers EDUCATION NEWS The latest from classrooms and beyond MINI AGENDA What’s on in London this winter GET MORE... Win a car seat worth over £1,700! INSPIRE This issue we chat to JoJo Maman Bébé founder Laura Tenison
Baby London ISSN 2040-8550 | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2016 All rights reserved
SUBSCRIBE Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive Baby London magazine for a year, delivered straight to your door all for just £14.99. PLUS we’ll send you a £20 JoJo Maman Bébé gift voucher absolutely FREE! Simply visit:
babylondon.co.uk/subscribe 01442 820 580
PHOTOGRAPHER: ABI CAMPBELL MODEL: AMOUR Amour wears Pink Knitted Sweater Dress, £96, Chloé. Silver Mouse Crib Shoes, £56, Little Marc Jacob. Numero 74 Glitter Crown, £6.95, Molly Meg.
PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY, COURTNEY ROBINSON
119 FOOD NEWS Table talk for baby and you 120 BUMP TO BABY What to eat when you’re pregnant 122 INTELLIGENT EATING Giving your unborn baby the best start 124 EXPLORE A WORLD OF FLAVOUR Annabel Karmel spices things up
Publisher Chatty Dobson Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Marketing Manager Will Delmont Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Stephanie Organ, Ginny Maclean
NEW! Baby Carrier One The ultimate ergonomic edition www.babybjorn.com
The Parallel Line Design is a sign of a genuine BABYBJĂ–RN product.
Join us for our We are committed to delivering nutritious food and encouraging healthy lifestyles for children
Enrolment Week
Sample our fresh and healthy menu, with recipes available to take and try at home Book your place during this week and take advantage of our amazing Special Offer... 25% off one month’s fees* *t&c’s apply
Celebrating Nutritious Food that Children Love 18th January – 22nd January 2016 To find your nearest nursery visit us at www.busybeeschildcare.co.uk
Cashmere Baby Hat £25, littleleggies.com
Savio Children’s Train Bed POA, harrods.com
EDITORʼS
LETTER
Stella McCartney Kids Pop Trainers £87, childrensalon.com
I’d love to hear what you think about our latest issue
Charlotte This super cute shot of Princess bridge Cam of hess Duc the by n was take
Babylondonmagazine
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PHOTOGRAPHY: HRH THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE
Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Limited Edition Rose & Cedrat £20.75, lizearle.com
Someone who really understands the need to bond with her babies is BBC news anchor and mother-of-two Kate Silverton, I was lucky enough to catch up with ahead of her imminent return to work (p.42). And it’s not just multitasking women we’re celebrating this issue. To highlight the rise of the dadpreneur movement, we get together three fathers who’ve launched start-ups in the parenting industry to share their success stories and find out how they make it work (p.62). Sleep is the holy grail for new mums and getting your baby into a routine is one way for both of you to get more of it. Norland baby consultant Gillian Stewart explains how to put one in place and offers invaluable advice on striking the right balance between structure and flexibility (p.106). Finally, as a Cornish girl myself, I have to recommend a read of stylist Courtney Robinson’s (p.134) postcard from the stunning coastal county. There’s nowhere quite like it! Here’s to 2016. Let’s hope it’s a goody!
ND
UK
A pelvic floor saviour Kegel Tracker £149, elvie.com
There’s nothing like the start of a brand new year to refocus the mind and body. Having eaten all the (mince) pies and rolled back to London, I’m ready to get back on track with a new healthy eating and workout regime. Luckily, this issue is chock-full of expert advice on nutrition and exercise and, whether you’re pregnant or already have a baby, we hope it will fill you with resolve for the year ahead. Working out what you can eat when you’re pregnant can be a bit of a minefield, but nutritional therapist Henrietta Norton cuts through the noise, as well as offering top tips on how to relieve common pregnancy symptoms (p.120). Meanwhile, our gorgeous maternity fashion story (p.68), featuring stylist and blogger Eimear Varian Barry, offers all the inspiration you need to style your bump. Getting moving in these dark days is always tough, but our pick of the best pre- and postnatal workout classes (p.95) will help motivate you when you just want to stay under the duvet. And you can’t even use the baby as an excuse as little ones are welcome, too, offering you the chance to bond with your baby while getting active.
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babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 13
G KITT Y
Where were you born? St Thomas’ Hospital in London. What was your favourite toy? My little brother! What’s the best thing about being a mum? It has to be dressing up Isadora. Any New Year’s resolutions? It’s always the same – a rather half-hearted attempt give up Home and Away. Kitty shares her story of miscarriage on p.80.
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@silvalining_AS Very happy to have stumbled across Baby_London mag! Can’t believe it’s taken so long! It’s fab X @toyella Our head honcho Carl knows a whole lot about toys – check out his guide to the most beautiful baby toys @cocomamastyle What’s that you’re doing Little Mo? Oh, just checking out mummy in @babylondonmagazine Thanks for featuring me Baby London!
Join in
We want to see your pics of you and your little ones enjoying Baby London
#BLLOVES facebook.com/babylondonmagazine twitter.com/baby_london instagram.com/babylondonmagazine Baby London’s Rebecca Moore and Chatty Dobson
14 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk Eimear and daughter Saoirse hard at work during our maternity fashion shoot
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Where were you born? I was born in Oakham. What’s the funniest thing your kids have said? Recently, I was shopping with my youngest when she saw an old man with a long beard and yelled: “Hello Father Christmas!’’ Where would you like to visit in 2016? A bit of sun in 2016 would be nice. I’m thinking about Sardinia. Read Becky’s last Diary of a Mum on p.108.
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ORTHY, JO SW UR AL LIST NA
Where were you born? In my hometown of Cork, Ireland. What’s your first outfit memory? The two floral dresses I wore the weekend of my sister’s communion. I was four! What’s your go-to label for maternity clothes? I couldn’t live without Topshop maternity jeans. Have you any New Year’s resolutions? To plan a sun holiday! Eimear models maternity fashion on p.68.
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BOY MEETS GIRL
The idea behind fashion journalist Molly Gunn’s brand and blogzine Selfish Mother is unity: the notion that everyone around the world can use parenthood to relate to one another. Her collection of organic cotton tees and sweatshirts for men, women and children now includes sleepsuits. The babygrows come with the trademark ‘Boy’ or ‘Girl’ slogan in sparkly prints on fun block colours. Or if you have an older one who might fancy a tee, £5 from the sale of each #GoodTees goes to disabled charity Kids UK. selfishmother.com
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 17
NEWS
GIFT OF ADVICE Your Parent Guide is a new governmentfunded handbook featuring parenting tips and advice on post-natal depression. London jeweller SWAG is an official partner and is giving 20% of proceeds from its push presents collection ‘Circle of Life’ to pre- and postnatal charity Pandas. swaguk.co.uk
WELCOME TO THE WORLD Photographer Jenny Lewis has taken her One Day Young project, which captures mums and babies in their first precious day of life, to the Simulemba Health Centre in Malawi, as part of WaterAid’s Deliver Life appeal. The centre delivers 90 babies a month yet has no water or electricity, four toilets, crumbling bathrooms and no sterilisation equipment. It is, unsurprisingly, impossible to keep clean. Despite this, Jenny’s pictures radiate with the universal joy of new life. This winter, Deliver Life aims to bring safe water to 130,000 mothers and families worldwide and, until 10 February, the UK government will double every donation. deliverlife.wateraid.org, jennylewis.net Karl Lagerfeld’s cat Choupette has inspired his first baby range
NEED FOR TWEED This winter sees the arrival of a buggy that’s so soft and cosy that parents will want to clamber in it as well. Naturally stylish, the special edition Bugaboo Cameleon³ Blend combines a supersoft brushed polyester tweed outer fabric with blue Tencel lining for extra cosiness. Riders who snuggle up in this luxurious lair may never want to leave! bugaboo.com
PURRFECT PRINTS
Iconic designer Karl Lagerfeld has brought his witty, chic style to his first collection for children and babies. The designer’s feline muse, Choupette, spices up the collection, featuring in embroideries and prints as well as starring in videos and animations. Exclusively at melijoe.com, Karl Lagerfeld Kids has pieces from newborn to 16 years old. melijoe.com
18 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
The days of popping fiddly snaps and buttons on baby clothes are no more. Magnet Mouse has revolutionised changing time by creating beautiful rompers, sleepsuits and bibs that all fasten with magnets. Simple, speedy, stylish. magnetmouse.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPHY: WATERAID /JENNY LEWIS
BABE MAGNET
CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER HOSPITAL
The Kensington Wing Private Maternity Unit The birth of a new baby is a very special moment for any family and the Kensington Wing at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital ensures that you will be in the hands of experienced Consultant Obstetricians and Midwives, all dedicated to ensuring you receive the best possible care. You'll enjoy the privacy and comfort of our private en-suite bedrooms and can be reassured that you are in a dedicated private maternity wing within one of the safest hospitals in the UK.
To find out more about our services, please call us on:
020 3315 8616 Š Merino Kids 2014
NEWS
GO FOR GOLD
American fashion designer Jeremy Scott joins forces with global lifestyle brand Cybex to launch its second capsule collection. Cybex by Jeremy Scott features a stylish black stroller, car seat, baby carrier and accessories, all embellished with fabulous gold details – some featuring Jeremy’s signature angel wings. cybex-online.com
FIT FOR A PRINCESS Cecile Reinaud of maternity-wear brand Séraphine has launched a range of babywear with a difference. The Diana Collection is created in partnership with the Diana Award, a charity that remembers the legacy of Princess Diana. It features the blue-and-pink tartan woven in Scotland in memory of the princess. 12% of sales will be donated to the charity. diana-award.org.uk | seraphine.com
The new collection by US fashion designer Jeremy Scott fuses functionality with design
ONE-STOP SHOP HOUSE OF FUN Houseology has launched its first range for children and babies, so little ones’ rooms can be as on trend as parents’, with the chicest array of themed bedding, funky furniture and quirky interiors. We’re wild about the gorgeous animal-themed accessories, such as their plush polar bear pillows and jungly rugs, which will transform your little one’s den into an animal kingdom. houseology.com
When expectant mum Laura Slater moved to Blackheath she was amazed that the family-friendly area lacked baby shops. So she opened Eat Sleep Love, an appointment-only store with expert advice to help expectant parents navigate the products on the market. As well as showcasing furniture, the store gives demos of pushchairs. eatsleeplove.co.uk
A TREAT IN STORE Smallable, the one-stop online shop for all things baby, children and teens, has opened its first store, in the heart of Paris. Its exclusive products will be showcased in the flesh in a 300-square-metre, Eiffel Towerstructured space in the glamorous Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Customers can enjoy an interactive shopping experience with tablet computers available to browse through its 450 brands. smallable.com
20 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
A PASSAGE TO INDIA Bring the magic of India to your home with CMYK, featuring bed linen, cushions and accessories for babies and children decorated using the ancient art of block-printing on Indian percale. From £18.95 | cmykliving.com
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SCAN HERE /ANALYSER ICI
NEWS
MUMMY BEAR Due to popular demand, Tobias and the Bear has launched a limited edition line of Just Call Me Fox leggings for adults, so grown-ups can enjoy the brand’s signature cute and quirky patterns, too. tobiasandthebear.com
LINKED UP
The new Silver Cross range is perfect for stylesavvy mummies. Exclusive to John Lewis, the marvellously monochrome Links collection features the Silver Cross Pioneer system, with carrycot, multi-recline seat, faux-fur seat liner and Pop pushchair. silvercrossbaby.com
BEST OF THE BLOGS
Make sure your diet doesn’t suffer, with Emily’s recipes for time-pressed parents
The internet is awash with information but these brilliant bloggers cut to the chase with honest and practical advice
A MUMMY TOO
Marvellous home-cooked food often stops being a priority for parents once baby arrives. While it’s only the best for the little one, our diets can deteriorate. But Emily Leary’s blog, which is refreshingly unpreachy, focuses on daily recipes, tips and video guides. She also reviews eating out and takeaway options from high-street chains, as well as covering other lifestyle issues. amummytoo.co.uk
22 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
DADBLOGUK
Having left work to become a full-time dad, John Adam is blogging about his experience. While he covers the gamut of fatherhood’s joys and woes, he loves to shine a light on his bugbear, the casual sexism he encounters from the school gate to the surgery. As well as cooking, cleaning, days out and finances, he weighs in on the big issues of fatherhood, masculinity and male infertility. Fearless stuff. dadbloguk.com
MUMMYTRAVELS
Writer Cathy Winston loves to travel. She really, really loves to travel. And so as mum to a three-year-old mini traveller, she has refused to hand over her passport and mothball her suitcases. As a result she has a wealth of knowledge about the realities of travelling with a bump, baby and, now, an energetic toddler. From the most useful paraphernalia, tips and advice to travel tales and resort reviews, MummyTravels is a must for mummies on the move. mummytravels.com
Twister Let's twist again‌ and turn pram, car seat or seat unit by 360° using only one hand.
‘The Dudes’ View the complete range at www.clair-de-lune.co.uk T: 0161 491 9800. facebook.com/clairdeluneuk
BABY STYLE
LOVES Includes five interior pockets, an insulated bottle pocket, a padded changing mat and more
Bag yourself some style We think this gorgeous Beatrice changing bag from Jem + Bea is the very definition of chic. Made from super-soft leather, it mixes sleek style with all the practicality you need when leaving the house feels like packing for a holiday. And, created by an ex-Mulberry designer, this tote is every bit as desirable. ÂŁ199, jemandbea.com
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 25
Noodoll Giant Cloud Cushion £40, lullabuy.co.uk
SHOPPING
NURSERY
Ivory Sheepskin Rug £35, johnlewis.com
Make your little one’s space a little oasis of calm with these gorgeous products in soft colours and cosy textures
Monty Sleepsuit £25, thebrightcompany.uk
Pure Baby Oil £7.50, nealsyardremedies.com
Ubbi Nappy Bin £69.95, johnlewis.com Done By Deer Rhino £13.77, smallable.com
Merino Kids Go Go Bag £70, merinokids.co.uk Baby Sleep Pillow Spray £16, thisworks.com
From a selection at jacadi.com
Moba Moses Basket and Mattress £99, johnlewis.com
Wooden Story Cat Teether £13, lullabuy.co.uk
REX Rabbit Nightlight £7.29, smallable.com
Grey Elephant Cot Bed Bumper £69, luluandnat.com Wiho Design I Wish Poster £19.95, lullabuy.co.uk
Charlie Crane Baby Rocker Levo £153.09, smallable.com babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 27
SHOPPING Béaba Silicone Freezing Tray £10, johnlewis.com
KITCHEN Feeding baby needn’t be dull, just add a bold splash of colour to mealtimes with these bright and beautiful essentials
Fresco Chrome From £369.99, bloombaby.co.uk
Le Toy Van Kitchen £169, harrods.com
PATCH Countertop Drying Rack £13.50, bebemoda.co.uk Béaba Babycook Solo £109.95, johnlewis.com
Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 £39.95, johnlewis.com
From a selection at stokke.com Nurture Bottle and Teat Brush £3.49, vitalbaby.co.uk
Myum Aubergine £28, fancykids.com Space Dinner Set £10, sciencemuseum.org.uk
Liberty Print Red Mitsi Bib £13, liberty.co.uk
Fruit Friends Plastic Plate £7, buddyandbear.com
28 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
Dotty Kettle £15.95, letoyvan.com
Apron and Utensil Set £17, selfridges.com
igo pure Nature. Nature. Tenderness. Tenderness. Comfort. Comfort. Purity. Purity.
30 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
SHOPPING
BATHROOM
Banana Teething Toothbrush £7.99, gadgetbaby.co.uk
Whether it’s teeth-brushing, potty-training or bath time, we have everything you need to wash away the day in style From a selection at harrods.com
Chevron Mat £47.95, turtlemat.co.uk
3 Sprouts Walrus Bath Storage £34.95, lullabuy.co.uk
Sophie la Girafe Bath Toy £11.95, johnlewis.com
Puj Elephant Spout Cover £9.95, johnlewis.com
BabyBjörn Smart Potty £19.95, johnlewis.com Nellie Mucky Pup Wash Mit £5, magnusandmouse.co.uk
Oli & Carol Origami Boat Toy £8, thekidwho.eu
Play ‘n’ Splash Frog Family £2.49, vitalbaby.co.uk Lili Flower Bath Toy £9.99, toyella.com
Night Time Hugs Hooded Towel £19, mamasandpapas.com
Angel Care Bath Support £24.99, mothercare.com Baby Bath Wrap £35.95, adenandanais.com
Baby Bath Towel £29.99, cuddledry.com
Bennetts Aqueous Bath Drops £3.99, superdrug.com
Moisturiser £3.99, childsfarm.com babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 31
SHOPPING Bruno Racing Car £61, fancykids.com
PLAYROOM Having fun has never looked so good with these terrific toys to spark your little one’s imagination
Drum £15, johnlewis.com
Ferm Living Indoor Kids’ Tent £118.95, lullabuy.co.uk
Wooden Diplodocus Rocker £150, nhmshop.co.uk
Classic ABC Blocks with Wagon £49.99, toyella.com
Woouf! Pink Cupcake Bean Bag £75, thekidwho.eu
From a selection at olliella.com Pets Blocks £17, alexandalexa.com Potter Library Table £90, gltc.co.uk
Elephant £10, pinchtoys.com Offi Woody Table £368.55, smallable.com
Baa-Baa Book Shelf £92, rowenandwren.co.uk
Steiff Trampili Riding Elephant £399, harrods.com
32 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
Fisher Price Chatter Telephone £14.99, selfridges.com
19-21 February
ExCeL London
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*Saving based on the standard ticket price of £20. To book by phone call 0871 231 0844, Calls cost 10p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Advance Booking Office closes 18/02/2016, £2.20 transaction fee applies per booking. For more information on the products featured visit thebabyshow.co.uk.
January, 2016 Sunday 24th to Tuesday 26th Paris, France
The international children’s & maternity trade show
500 collections
illustration Anne Laval
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January 24-26, 2016
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CHILDREN’S & MATERNITY TRADE SHOWS WORLDWIDE! FOR PROFESSIONALS ONLY
February 23 - 25, 2016
INTERVIEW
The art dealer at work
y Caleb is a calm and happy bab
MY ESSENTIALS GEORGINA COHEN
How are you finding life as a mum to little Caleb? It’s absolutely amazing and every day gets better and better. There’s no greater thing than to wake up in the morning and see him smiling back at you. I’m completely blessed, because he’s just the calmest, happiest boy. You found love quite late so you’re an older mum. How has this affected your experience of motherhood? I think it’s been a benefit. I’m maternal and loved spending time with my friends’ babies before I had Caleb. I’m a curious person, so by the time I had him I was quite knowledgeable, which made me more confident.
We talk to the Gagosian art dealer and Porter contributor about life as a new mum to baby Caleb have helped to keep me balanced. One is Dr Gowri Motha, a fascinating and incredible woman who does ‘creative healing’. It helps the body regulate itself. As a fan of alternative medicine, do you have any recommendations for babies? There can be a bit of trauma attached to c-sections so Caleb Caleb with his craniologist
had cranial with an incredible guy called Philip Owen. It really helped him. It helps with sleep, routine and how often they poo. Where do you shop for Caleb? We haven’t really had to buy anything yet! I think the Little White Company is amazing. It’s easy, affordable and I love it. Nanos is great, too. And I’m not sure what I would have done without Amazon or Boots. What’s your changing bag of choice? And what’s in it? I have a big, stylish Bamford bag instead. The Anya Hindmarch
How did you find pregnancy? I enjoyed every second and I felt amazing, too. I credit that feeling to years of taking care of myself. I have a couple of go-to gurus I have seen over the years who Georgina loves the Anya Hindmarch Baby Emergency Kit
Georgina is already introducing her little one to the art world
Baby Emergency Kit is brilliant, too. It made me feel stylish and has everything you need. Did your passion for art inform your choice of nursery décor? We like things very neutral, but we put this beautiful little alphabet over two walls. The letters start in dark grey and go lighter as they go round. My brother Adam [who runs the Gagosian Gallery in New York] sent us an amazing group of prints we’re going to put up, which was such an amazing gesture. Art runs in your family. How are you introducing your little one to the world of culture? We show him a lot of books and pictures, and we read to him. He’s very alert for such a little person. He loves music as well. We do a ‘naked kick’ at 5.30pm every day when we put music on and sing and dance, and he shrieks. It’s his happiest time of the day.
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 35
INTERVIEW
Georgina shows off her fabulous pregnancy style
r a c-section Getting back into shape afte
Caleb loves the Baby Spa
must for any mum, too. I hardly ever wear heels now – I live in my Lanvin trainers and Céline flats.
How do you feel about going back to work? I definitely want to go back to work because I love what I do, and I have more of an incentive than ever as I have another little mouth to feed. I’m very fortunate that I’ve been at the gallery for 10 years and they are very flexible. I’m very lucky that I have help – good help. I really wanted to make sure that when I go back to work, I had someone who I could trust to look after him and educate him.
You’re in great shape. How did you do it? If you’ve had a c-section, it can take longer, and you want to make sure you do it at the right pace and in the right way. There is a fantastic girl called Paola diLanza, whose Bodybarre is wonderful for your core and
pelvic floor. I really enjoy the mixture of barrecorre, ballet and Pilates. She has a studio, but she will come to your house, too. Where do you like to go with Caleb? If you want to see your child blossom, I recommend the Baby Spa in Kensington, which was set up by this amazing lady, Laura Sevenus. Babies can go there from as early as two or three Georgina and her husband Jonathan with baby Caleb
weeks old. We go every week now and Caleb absolutely loves the water, and the massage afterwards. It is so calming for babies. They then graduate to the swimming classes. Caleb also goes to Gymboree. And where do you escape to when you need a break? My parents live in Cheshire and my husband’s parents live in Dublin, so we have two great places to go to where we are welcomed with open arms. When we take Caleb to Cheshire, he blossoms in the fresh air. It’s great. What’s in store for you over the next year? Being a little bit older, I’ll probably try for another baby. I’m doing a bit for a new art blog, called The Art Gorgeous. I’m also a contributing editor for Porter magazine, so I’ll be working on and off on art and lifestyle pieces. I also want to do more writing and share my knowledge of hotspots – it makes me feel connected and I enjoy it.
You had a very stylish pregnancy. Do you have any tips on dressing while pregnant or as a new mum? I absolutely love Bamford and Phillip Lim. They are my two go-tos. They are so comfortable – it’s like wrapping yourself in a blanket. Nine in the Mirror is a
Next issue: we chat to Blue Almond owner Iza Minkiewicz
36 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
The new mum lives in her Lanvin trainers
PHOTOGRAPHY: ANASTASIA EVDOKIMOVA, ROWLAND ROQUES O'NEIL FOR NINE IN THE MIRROR
Then at bedtime we play him his own personalised lullaby with the RockabyBoo app.
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BEST BOOKS FOR
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OU R R E SIDENT BOOK WOR M Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P SOM E LIGHT R E ADING FOR TH E N EW YE AR
ACHOO!
By Virginie Morgand Something surprising happens each time an animal says ‘achoo’ in this highly entertaining introduction to shapes and colours. Brilliantly bright and fantastically fun, young readers will be completely enthralled. £9.99, Tate Publishing
38 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
BOOKS
Littles one will love trying to spot Migloo the dog
PIP AND POSY: THE NEW FRIEND By Axel Scheffler
Pip and Posy are having a day at the seaside when Pip makes friends with a boy. Perfect for introducing themes of friendship. £8.99, Nosy Crow
BABY’S VERY FIRST COT BOOK – NIGHT TIME A comforting cloth book that explores bedtime rituals in a woodland setting and also comes in a beautiful presentation box. £9.99, Usborne
LADYBIRD TOUCH: TOOT! TOOT! Bold captivating and colourful images introduce little ones
to simple shapes, animals and vehicles. This bright and engaging book folds out into a wall frieze. £6.99, Ladybird
ELMER’S LITTLE LIBRARY By David McKee
Jane Foster with striking artwork and peep-through die-cuts. £8.99, Templar Publishing
for encouraging little ones to try something new during weaning. £11.99, Hodder Children’s Books
MIGLOO’S DAY
TECHNICOLOR TREASURE HUNT
By William Bee
This is full of brilliantly immersive search-and-find fun. Can your little ones spot little Migloo the dog on each dazzling, detailed spread? They will have hours of fun searching. £11.99, Walker Books
By Nan Na Hvass and Sofie Hannibal
BROWN BEAR COLOUR BOOK
HUGLESS DOUGLAS AND THE GREAT CAKE BAKE
WISHES FOR BABY
Join Brown Bear as he learns about colours in this stylish concept book by textile designer
The sheep are baking cakes but lovable Douglas is sure that food without honey isn’t yummy. Ideal
From pre-school character Elmer comes the perfect library for little hands to discover first concepts. It contains tiny books on actions, numbers, shapes and colours. Pocket-sized perfection. £4.99, Andersen Press
By Jane Foster
By David Melling
Learn to count with this beautiful treasure hunt. Turn the chunky tabs to discover the colours of the rainbow. Fun early learning. £9.99, Wide Eyed Editions
Friends and family can write messages for baby in this delightful keepsake book. Perfect for sharing with guests at a baby shower or on that first visit. £9.99, Little Tiger Press
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 39
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babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 41
INTERVIEW
Family MATTERS e all know, as parents, you can’t have it all. But BBC newsreader Kate Silverton might just have cracked the hallowed work/life balance to which we all aspire. Having taken nearly two years off to have her second baby, she is due to return to our screens in January as the 6pm and 10pm Saturday news anchor. It’s an arrangement that leaves her free to be with her children, Clemency, four, and Wilbur, one, for the remainder of the week, as well as continue her charitable involvement and pursue her work in children’s education and development. “I have just loved my time as a full-time mum,” says Kate. “Having had this much time off has allowed me to really assess how to best balance my life.” Her new schedule, she says, will still involve a bit of a juggling act. But it’s one she’s looking forward to: “I am really excited. I love my work as a journalist and feel very privileged to do what I do.” One thing she’s clear about, though, is that there’s no competition between her home and work lives. “My priority is my family and I have faith that my work will follow when the time is absolutely right. I think one gets over the fear of losing in terms of one’s work by facing it head on and saying, ‘If I lose, I lose – my family has to come first.’”
W
42 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
It’s a realisation she attributes, in part, to being an older mother. “It is perhaps a little easier to put things into more context. I am lucky to feel fulfilled in my career, am relatively financially secure and don’t feel as though I am missing out or have anything left to prove.” Her biggest buzz, she says, is simply walking Clemency to nursery with Wilbur and being there for her at the gate, hearing her news and taking her to ballet. “Don’t get me wrong,” she interjects, “I love my work, it’s just that maybe I feel I am able to take more time out than perhaps I would have done in my early 30s, and it’s why I am also still trying to keep my work to part time if I’m able.” Even so, with so much at stake professionally it wasn’t easy for her when deciding whether to take time out after having her babies. “For any working woman who has invested so much of her life creating a successful career, there is always going to be this emotional tug of war,” she says. “But I have learned that it is possible to take proper time out and to simply be ‘present’ for my children.” Her lightbulb moment came when Wilbur arrived: “I simply realised it was not possible for me to do everything as well as I wanted. And I wanted, above all, to be a mum to my children at an age when I felt they needed me more than I needed to work.”
Kate is passionate about wildlife conservation
PHOTOGRAPHY: SIM CANNETTY-CLARKE, TUSK TRUST, GETTY IMAGES: TRISTAN ELBRICK.
AS SH E PR EPAR E S TO GE T BACK BEHIN D TH E N EWS DE SK , MUM- OF-T WO Kate Silver ton TELL S Susannah Warren WHY FAMILY COM E S FIR ST
INTERVIEW
MY PRIORITY IS MY FAMILY AND I HAVE FAITH THAT MY WORK WILL FOLLOW
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 43
INTERVIEW Kate has really enjoyed her time as a full-time mum to Clemency and Wilbur
Kate’s
favourites
“Margot Sunderland’s books on loss and emotions connect with children and encourage them to let their feelings go.” A Nifflenoo Called Nevermind £11.25, waterstones.com
As patron of cons ervation charity Tu sk, Kate work s alongside the Duke of Cambrid ge
Kate’s desire to be fully present is related to an earlier fear that she would not be able to have any children. After years of failed IVF treatment – and having had an ovary removed at 29 – Kate had all but given up hope, but then miraculously fell pregnant naturally with Clemency. She attributes this surprise turn of events to a number of things, not least to the fact that she was in Afghanistan when she went through her first round of IVF. “Looking back I cannot believe it was going to work when I was coming under mortar fire and reporting from the front line. I think I was in a bit of denial – wanting to pursue a career, but knowing I had a limited time to fall pregnant.” Going through IVF was, Kate says, “tough beyond anything we had been through before,” (bearing in mind she has reported in war zones and her husband, Mike Heron, is a former Royal Marine). She encourages anyone to “explore every means of getting pregnant naturally before you embark on the process”. And she advises starting with the obvious: “Do make sure you are making love at the right
44 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
time of the month – it sounds crazy but I have spoken to a lot of women who think they are trying at the right time, but when they use ovulation sticks they find they are days out!” Eager to share her experiences, Kate is actually in the process of starting a blog. “I am so lucky to have had access to so many talented and devoted experts, so I rather like the idea of putting all that information online in some form of hub, for free. I intend for it to be incredibly honest and ask advice of other parents as well as share things I have learned.” She is passionate about children’s mental health and used her maternity leave to return to her studies in child psychology. “I’d like to see us collectively become more knowledgeable about the impact of our behaviour on our children’s brains,” she says. “So that we can learn to parent positively and ensure that our children can, in the future, manage stress better and cope with whatever life throws at them.” As a patron of Tusk Trust, for which she works alongside the Duke of Cambridge, she is also committed to championing conservation issues and preserving our planet for future generations. “If we have a healthy society and collective psychology, then we create an empathic and caring society that is not afraid to look to the long term and see the damage we are causing. [These are] big issues, but I want to be able to look my children in the eye when they are adults and say, ‘I did my bit.’” Of that I think we can be certain.
Geo Flowerbed Dress £69, noaddedsugar.com
“I find having a supply of stickers, colouring books and puzzles invaluable to keeping the kids entertained while out.” Sticker Dolly Dressing Book £5.99, waterstones.com
Djeco Primo Puzzle Cats £8.95, toyjeanius.co.uk
Star and Crown Cardigan £75, mariechantal.co.uk
THIS PAGE Amour wears Pink Knitted Sweater Dress, £96, Chloé. Silver Mouse Crib Shoes, £56, Little Marc Jacob. Numero 74 Glitter Crown, £6.95, Molly Meg.
RISE AND SHINE PHOTOGR APHER : ABI CAMPBELL ART DIRECTOR AND ST YLIST: EVA DZIEDZIC DE AGUIRRE
THIS PAGE Joey wears Jersey Chain Logo T-Shirt, £48, Moschino at Harvey Nichols. Niko Burger Pants, £28, Soft Gallery. Velcro Bootie, £52, Step2wo at Harvey Nichols. LEFT PAGE Eleanor wears Sweater, £72, Chloé at Harrods. Knit Shorts, £30, Billieblush. Babies Shoe, £27, Billieblush. Raindrops Cloud Mobile, £36.45, The Butter Flying at Smallable.
THIS PAGE Darcey wears Copper Dress, £69, No Added Sugar. Embroidered Tiger Sweatshirt, £58, Kenzo. Sparkly Tights, £7, Monsoon. Grey Sparkle Star Boots, £16, Mothercare. Foil Tassel Satchel, £12, Monsoon. RIGHT PAGE Grace-Rose wears Lurex Dress, £55, Carremént Beau at House of Fraser. Sandals, £26, Billieblush at House of Fraser.
THIS PAGE Amour wears Top, ¤44, Jacadi. Stargazer Shorts, from a selection at No Added Sugar. RIGHT PAGE Nico wears Baby Bodysuit, £14, Mainio. Pants, £18, Soft Gallery. Fion Metallic Shoe, £52, Step2wo. at Harvey Nichols. Design Letters, £60, Arne Jacobsen at The Kid Who.
THIS PAGE Felix wears Grey Elbow Patch Cardigan, £20, Cyrillus at Alex and Alexa. Motif Bodysuit, ¤19.90, Mainio. Pants, £33, Patachou at Harvey Nichols. First Star Shoes, £22.99, Converse at Office. Metallic Knit Cushion, £20, Next. Storm Boy Cushion, £16, Tobias and the Bear. LEFT PAGE Nico wears Block Bodysuit, £16, Mainio. Count Leggings, £16, Tobias and the Bear. Hat, £15, Patachou at Harvey Nichols. Boots, £24, Next.
SPECIAL THANKS TO: PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: CHRISTOPHER BUTCHART HAIR AND MAKEUP: AMY ATKINS POST PRODUCTION: KRYZYSZTOF KOZAK STYLIST’S AGENCY: ROXY & JACK REPRESENTS MODELS: AMOUR, DARCEY, ELEANOR, FELIX, GRACE-ROSE, JOEY, NICO MODEL AGENCIES: BONNIE AND BETTY, GRACE AND GALOR AND URBAN ANGELS
Shiny Jacquard Dress £17.99, zara.com
Tartine et Chocolat Dress £78, iglookids.co.uk
Chloé Pink Dress, £96, harrods.com. Silver Geometric Glitter Garlands by My Little Day, £5.60 for 12, mollymeg.com. Tights, £9, uk.accessorize.com.
Babystar Jersey Top £12.95, joules.com
SHOP THE SHOOT
Quilted One-piece £14.95, gap.co.uk
Cream Furry Sweatshirt £14, riverisland.com
Get the look with muted tones and a smattering of metallic shine Silver Bow Hair Clip (Pack of Two) £3.50, mothercare.com
Gold Skirt £13, boots.com
SHINY SHOES 1
2
Faux Suede T-shirt £12, riverisland.com Pure Cotton Joggers (Part of Two-piece Set) £14, marksandspencer.com
3 4 Benetton Jogging Bottoms £9.90, houseoffraser.co.uk
Let your little one be the star of the show Conscious Kids Bodysuit £12.99, hm.com/gb
1. Gold Speck Moccasins, £19.99, meandhayari.co.uk 2. Sparkling Moon Booties, ¤39,95, little-indians.nl 3. Baby Cozy Gold Shoe, £18, clarks.co.uk 4. Lucky Lacey Boot, £45, bobux.co.uk
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www.bystroom.co.uk babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 57
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JEWELLERY Personalise with birthstone charms, letters and numbers for a timeless keepsake Constellation Necklace £1,865, brookegregson.com
Loquet Heart Locket £1,850, nineinthemirror.com
Charms can be worn to signify the initials or spell out the name of your loved one Acorn Necklace £79, mercimamanboutique.com
Silhouettes of children make lovely charms
18ct Bee Charm £475, theofennell.com
Silhouette Charms bespoke, cassandragoad.com Gold and Diamond Zodiac Charm £1,300, theofennell.com
Lucky Stackable Signet Ring £365 each, kirstengoss.com
SOMETHING
to treasure
WHAT BE T TER WAY TO CELEBR ATE BABY ’S AR RIVAL THAN WITH A PIECE OF BE SPOKE JEWELLERY ? Lisa Car ter ROU N DS U P H ER PICK OF TH E BE ST n the age of mass-production, we appreciate anything personalised, hand-crafted and conscientiously sourced even more. We crave jewellery with significance – and that often manifests itself as a love token. Traditionally given as an eternity ring, the ‘push’ present now comes in more unique and original ways. Whether you’re looking for a newborn present or a piece of meaningful jewellery, here are a few of the best. Hattie Rickards creates beautiful discs with your child’s fingerprint to hang from a necklace. The discs are created according to the weight and length of chain wanted. She comes to your home to take the fingerprint with her forensic ink pad, which toddlers find immensely entertaining. If your child can scrawl its names, it too can be added. Beautiful cuff links for daddies can also be made. Loquet London has to be the ultimate in keepsake jewellery, with a timeless circular or
I
heart-shaped locket that you can fill with your choice of charms. And, if you can’t find what you want, just about anything can be made for you. Kirsten Goss handcrafts beaten gold
Cassandra Goad creates bespoke silhouettes for when the children are a little older, with hand-engraved messages, names or dates and traditional zodiac charms.
WE CRAVE JEWELLERY WITH SIGNIFICANCE – THAT USUALLY MANIFESTS ITSELF AS A LOVE TOKEN stacking rings with the initial of your child or loved one, while star constellations by Brooke Gregson are the ultimate zodiac charm. They combine diamond constellations in textured hand-cast gold that mimics the surface of the moon. Felt in Chelsea Green has a whole tray of necklaces, diamond-studded letters, zodiac signs and antique St Christopher pendants that can be specially made.
Theo Fennell makes adorable gold letter charms with bees on them, along with diamond-studded heart charms with baby feet in blue or pink. If you want something more elaborate, Theo’s classic Bombe ring can be customised with birthstones. If you are after a birthstone with a difference, the queen of ethically sourced jewellery, Pippa Small, creates unique pieces, using rough and uncut gems.
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 59
PARTY TIME This adorable dungarees set will catch everyone’s attention
Premium Silver Plastic Champagne Flutes £8.99, partypieces.co.uk
Lace Christening Dress £322, littlebevan.co.uk
Porcelain Blue Large Paper Plates £3.99, partypieces.co.uk La Stupenderia Dungarees and Top Set £150, childrensalon.com
Porcelain Silver Paper Party Napkins £2.99, partypieces.co.uk
Sarah Louise Christening Gown £150, harrods.com
Porcelain Silver Paper Plates £3.99, partypieces.co.uk
CAROLE’S TOP TIP “A naming day is such a celebration, keep it simple by sticking to a set of colours.” ‘Will You Be My Godmother?’ Card £5, notonthehighstreet.com
A beautifully intricate knit in the softest alpaca yarn Pure Alpaca Christening Shawl £115, plumoflondon.com
Porcelain Blue Party Teapot Table Centrepiece £5.99, partypieces.co.uk
Personalised Christening Biscuit Tin £43.50, biscuiteers.com
GIFTS FOR BABY 9ct Gold Engraved Bangle £230, my1styears.com Carrs Sterling Silver Baby Rattle £139, harrods.com
The World Of Peter Rabbit £140, peterrabbit.com 60 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
Personalised White Wooden Children’s Chair £40, my1styears.com
Man In The Moon Feeding Spoon £120, tiffany.co.uk
PARTY TIME
White Decorative Mini Party Fans £1.49, partypieces.co.uk
Presentation is key at a party. Remember the final touches like this beautiful cake stand
d editor an n tributing dleto id M Our con le o ar ecialist C party sp
from partypieces.co.uk
White Birdcage Cake Stand £12.99, partypieces.co.uk
NAMING DAY with
Carole Middleton Blossom Branch Cake from £15, fionacairns.com
Vera Wang Infinity Baby Cup £45, wedgewood.co.uk
IT’S TIM E TO CELEBR ATE WELCOMING A N EW AR RIVAL INTO TH E WOR LD
Christening Photo Album £20, my1styears.com
Arthur Price Child’s Egg Cup, Napkin Ring and Spoon Set £59, harrods.com
Sterling Silver Expandable Bracelet £75, linksoflondon.com
Personalised Keepsake Box £30, my1styears.com
Silver Brush and Comb Set £350, mappinandwebb.com babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 61
BUSINESS
DADPRENEURS Rebecca Moore TALKS TO TH R EE AM BITIOUS DADS WHO HAVE HAR MONISED TH EIR BUSIN E SS VENTU R E S AN D FAMILY LIFE
ailing the perfect balance of family and work life is no easy feat. A lot of exposure is given to the dilemmas of the modern working mother and the ‘mumpreneurs’ who set up their own businesses to earn money, while still giving themselves the freedom to be there for their children’s milestones. But what about the fathers who face the same problems? With dads becoming more involved than ever in children’s lives, it seems fathers are also increasingly looking to non-traditional career routes. And what better way to harmonise family life with business than starting a company in the baby and children’s industry? A recent Not On The High Street (NOTHS) survey of 1,000 dads in the UK revealed six out of 10 confessed to only spending quality time with their children at weekends, citing long working hours and exhaustion among the reasons why. In response to the findings, NOTHS launched its dadpreneur movement to give fathers a voice. It is calling for dadpreneurs to come forward and register on the site, as well as offering support to fathers who are thinking about starting a business. With one in five fathers confessing they have no idea what their child’s favourite book is because of missing bedtimes while working late, I decided to chat to three dads who have launched successful businesses in the bid to achieve a better work-life balance.
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Our children were the focus group, test team and model agency
62 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
”
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN
“
Carl from Toyella with his children, Ollie, Ella and Charlie
BUSINESS
“
The business is like a member of the family – a demanding teen
” Simon Booth, of Kiddimotto, with children Kitty and Ruby
Little Green Sheep’s Mark Nicholls with daughters Emily and Lydia
“
New products are born of my experience as a first-time dad
”
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 63
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BUSINESS
Simon Booth KIDDIMOTO
You had a unique way into the baby industry. Tell us how The Little Green Sheep began? It began after leaving Aston University where I became friends with co-founder Paul Maurice. We set off on different paths after university. Paul, who studied product design, went to work as a recruitment graduate in Cheshire, while I ventured down south to work in marketing for Kerry Foods in Surrey. It was at Kerry Foods I first learned about the benefits of organic and, after reading news articles on the dangers of chemicals in baby mattresses, the penny dropped! From there on, Paul and I set out to create and launch a range of high-quality baby bedtime products. Since launching the business you’ve had two kids. How has that affected your outlook on The Little Green Sheep? I’m lucky to have two amazing girls – Emily’s three and Lydia is 18 months. It’s been amazing to use my own products and I am constantly trying to find ways to develop our range.
How and when did your business begin? The initial idea came almost 13 years ago, while discussing balance bikes over a few beers. Then, the only bikes available were plain and simple. My idea was to make them look like motorbikes. In 2011 you appeared on Dragons’ Den. Can you tell us a little bit about that? In the years 2003 to 2010, the business was growing by more than 100% a year. It was a real strain on cash flow and maintaining stock levels. I needed an injection of cash. I took my eldest daughter, Ruby, for support. I think that tamed the Dragons. The involvement has been positive. How did it affect your business? Dragons’ Den swung the balance bike door wide open. Since that moment, balance bikes have become the norm, and parents now see them as a prelude to a bicycle. There has been a remarkable increase in the number of other balance bike suppliers, which has made me innovate and develop products. What makes Kiddimoto unique? Our design. We create original and distinctive products, London Bus Rider and Walk-on £69.99, kiddimoto.co.uk
such as our replica wooden motorcycles, and beautiful, colourful cycle helmets. How does the business fit around family life? Life, family and business all sync perfectly. The business came before the family, and both have evolved to live in harmony. The business is like a member of the family – a demanding teenager. How do you involve your kids in the business? Are they chief testers? The kids are definitely involved. They are chief product testers, opinion formers and idea generators. They also come to trade shows, are models at photo shoots and are brand ambassadors at school. What advice would you give anyone setting up his or her own business? Self-belief is key, but be realistic. Be totally committed. Get support from your family, you will need them for emotional backup. Enjoy every day.
Mark Nicholls THE LITTLE GREEN SHEEP
What plans do have for the future of the business? Develop a load more amazing and fun products, and have a heap of fun along the way. kiddimoto.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 65
BUSINESS
What makes The Little Green Sheep unique? Our honest, passionate and simple approach helps us focus on offering parents beautiful products in a pure and healthy environment for their baby. Sometimes not over-complicating things can provide the most benefits, and that goes for our range of organic baby mattresses, which use only four ingredients but to great effect.
Carl Shaw TOYELLA
What’s your bestselling product? We like to think when it comes to natural and organic mattresses, we’re the experts having sold more than 120,000 to parents. Our mattress protectors are also very popular. How does running a business fit around family life? My father said the biggest challenge in life is getting the right balance – he’s right! Having children has altered the way I approach business. I’m lucky to have a supportive wife. Do you try to involve your little ones? Definitely! I spent a lot of my childhood surrounded by business, which is probably where I caught the bug. While they are too young to understand everything, I enjoy having them involved. Lydia and Emily have been models for The Little Green Sheep. Do you hope to keep the business in the family? You just want Organic Knitted Baby Blanket the best for your £29.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk children and for them to be happy. I’ve never assumed it would be something that I would pass down. What advice would you give someone looking to set up his or her own business? Set out what you believe in then stick by it, no matter what. Of course, determination and broad shoulders are a pre-requisite. What plans have you got for the future? The Little Green Sheep will have a new website in 2016 and we’re excited to be investing in lots of new products – many of them have been born from my own experiences as a first-time dad. thelittlegreensheep.co.uk
66 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
What inspired you to set up Toyella? Our own frustration at not being able to purchase the kind of product we wanted for our family. We couldn’t find the toyshop we wanted, so we created it. What makes Toyella unique? Original products, service and philosophy. Most of our toys are sourced from outside the UK and offer children a unique play experience. It’s a personal curation of the very best in toys. Service is vital to Toyella’s success and we have high standards. What’s your bestselling product? The Moluk Pluï Rain Cloud. Toyella introduced it to the UK last Christmas and its sales have rocketed. It is a lovely water toy in the shape of a cloud. How does running a business fit around family life? At Christmas it goes crazy and the children sometimes have to come to our office after school while mum and dad finish up. I put them to work picking products off the shelves. They love it. How do you involve your little ones in the business? When we started our children were Toyella’s focus group, test team and model agency. You get very honest feedback! Magnetic Toy Rocket £49.99, toyella.com
Do you hope to keep the business in the family? Toyella is my baby: conceived by me and raised with great care and love. Seeing Toyella in the hands of someone unrelated would be difficult. But a big part of me wants my children to carve their own path. What advice would you give anyone setting up his or her own business? Have faith in your instinct, take calculated risks and adapt. You don’t have to have an original idea but you must have an original approach. Real business is not like The Apprentice, nor is it necessary to put your house and health on the line. You recently began in-store concessions in London stores. Do you think a standalone Toyella store will exist in the future? Partnering with gift stores has proved mutually beneficial. I do like the idea of a London flagship store but not until we have window space in each corner of the UK. Any other exciting plans? By the end of 2016 the aim is that nearly all the brands available at Toyella can only be bought at Toyella. Hopefully, Toyella’s very own range is not too far off either. toyella.com
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BLOOMING LOVELY PHOTOGR APHER : KEN COPSEY ST YLIST: COURTNEY ROBINSON HAIR AND MAKE-UP: ROSE ANGUS MODEL: EIME AR VARIAN BAR RY with daughter Saoirse
THIS PAGE Eimear wears Silk Chiffon Printed Jumpsuit, £290, A Day in the Life. Blog Rings, £7.99, Parfois. Saoirse wears Flower Blandine Dress, £127, Bonpoint. Cotton Tights, £20, Marie-Chantal. Large Plain Hair Clip Bow, £5, Verity Jones London. Medium Bashful Bunny, £16, Jelly Cat.
THIS PAGE Eimear wears Mary Pointed Collar, £30, Slacks & Co. Dropped Waist Crepe Dress, £199, Sandro at Nine in the Mirror. Alice Boots, £140, Shop Pyramid. Blog Rings, £7.99, Parfois.
THIS PAGE Saoirse wears Cord Romper, £79, Marie-Chantal. Ivory Top, £20, Le Mu. Cotton Tights, £20, Marie-Chantal. Maria Shoes, £119, Vevian London.
THIS PAGE Eimear wears Cashmere Ribbed Roll Neck, £180, Whistles. Denver Cropped Faux Leather Jacket, £169, Slacks & Co. Asymmetrical Criss-Cross Jersey Skirt, £140, IRO at Nine in the Mirror. Blog Rings, £7.99, Parfois. Saoirse wears Pleated Collar Blouse, £49, Marie-Chantal. Cat Sweater, £135, Marie-Chantal. White Skirt, ¤180, Simonetta. Cotton Tights, £20, Marie-Chantal.
THIS PAGE Eimear wears Maternity Shapewear Dress, £18, Topshop. Silk Chiffon Shirt Dress, £250, A Day in the Life. Blog Rings, £7.99, Parfois.
THIS PAGE Eimear wears Jersey T-shirt, £28, Topshop Boutique. Leather Pencil Skirt, £435, By Malene Birger at Nine in the Mirror. Bacardie Heels, £89, Dune. Jemima Black Changing Bag, £265, Jem + Bea. Blog Rings, £7.99, Parfois.
THIS PAGE Eimear wears Shirt, £14.90, Uniqlo. The Sash Pants, £150, Hatch at Nine in the Mirror. Bacardie Heels, £89, Dune. Blog Rings, £7.99, Parfois. Saoirse wears Blue Haven Dress, £41, Le Mu. Large Plain Hair Clip Bow, £5, Verity Jones London. Cotton Tights, £20, Marie-Chantal. Alfonso Shoes, £139, Vevian London.
SPECIAL THANKS TO PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: GEORGIA SHANE
Jeans Maternity Blouse £56.99, enviedefraise.co.uk
Maternity V-Neck Tee £22, topshop.com
Maternity Pull On 7/8 Trousers £35, marksandspencer.com
Ellen Dress in Ivory $585, Mitera. Narrow Belt £3.99, H&M. Blog Rings £7.99, Parfois.
SHOP THE SHOOT
Printed Dress £49.99, zara.com
Treasured trends to see you and your little lady through the season
It’s easy to look chic but stay comfortable with this versatile skirt
Black Leather Pointed Block Heel Ankle Boots £54.99, newlook.com
Maternity Ribbed Tube Skirt £22, topshop.com
FOR YOUR MINI ME Mini Girls Mid-Wash Denim Zip Shift Dress £14, riverisland.com Petticoat Skirt £11, vertbaudet.co.uk
Pretty Baby Sweater £14, vertbaudet.co.uk Bow Shine Ballet Flats £14.95, gap.co.uk
Metallic Oxfords £16.95, gap.co.uk
Hand Smocked Dress £30, johnlewis.com
W W W. N IN E IN T H E M IRRO R. CO M 3. 1 P H I L L IP L I M • J O S E P H • L A N V I N • MI SSONI • SANDRO • VA LENTINO • A ND MANY MO RE
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01252 351076 or 07771 660121 www.deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk 78 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
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SPORTS Lorna Murchie, managing director of lingerie brand Lorna Drew, explains what to look for in a maternity bra
SUPPORT
A strap that gets wider will support bigger cups. A deeper underband gives better lift, while mesh side panels provide added support.
ADJUSTABILITY
Four hooks are best for adjusting as your rib cage expands. Choose an adjustable clasp, which can be altered up to three cup sizes.
COMFORT
Brushed cotton-lined bras are a great option for comfort. They are perfect for anyone experiencing discomfort or soreness.
AND SO TO BED… Maternity Pyjamas £28, topshop.com
Lace Detail Chemise £62, nineinthemirror.com
Clara Whispering Robe £250, stellamccartney.com
Maternity and Nursing Nightie £29, seraphine.com
Eberjey Lounge Bottoms £58, nineinthemirror.com
Keep your toes warm in style with these gorgeous Brora cashmere socks babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 79
The road to motherhood was difficult but Kitty now delights in being a mum
Lost and found
Mum and daughte r find plenty to smile abou t
AF TER TH R EE MISCAR RIAGE S, Kit ty Galswor thy TELL S US ABOUT TH E JOY OF MOTH ER HOOD AN D HOW H ER DOU L A TR AINING H ELPED
80 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
BIRTH STORIES
xciting times were ahead. We were expecting a baby in January 2014 and due to move to San Francisco soon after. I thought I’d be on maternity leave and the baby would be a few months old when we left. Such expectations are not necessarily realised. At almost five months pregnant, our baby stopped kicking, and I was induced at Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital. It was incredibly sad waiting for test results and I had mixed emotions when we were told there was no answer to why it happened. Having had two previous early miscarriages, it was hard to hear it was just one of those things. What I found most difficult was the expectation; a natural adjustment takes place
E
the baby is born. She describes it as being “hazy” with a “rose tint” and stresses that, although it might not feel like it, it’s a short time in your life.
HYPNOBIRTHING I had discovered I was pregnant again on my last day of work in London, just a few weeks before we headed to San Francisco. Training while pregnant was a great focus, and I felt I couldn’t have been in a better place. Hypnobirthing was an amazing discovery and I truly believe that, if you can break the cycle of ‘fear equals tension equals pain’, it will have a huge impact on your labour. I would encourage anyone to read about it, whatever
I BELIEVE THAT THE MENTAL PREPARATION HELPED: I FELT EMPOWERED WITH KNOWLEDGE to allow for the impact pregnancy and a baby will have on your life. It takes time to readjust and it’s important to grieve. As a level-headed person, it rocked me to feel so low in the weeks that followed. I couldn’t see how it was going to pass until I had a baby in my arms. In fact, the realisation it was out of my hands helped me to enjoy things again.
type of birth you intend to have, because it has so many benefits – I still use the breathing techniques when Isadora is screaming. I was also inspired by my mother, who had me and my brothers naturally and was positive about the experience. I hoped to do the same. My husband Sam was curious – albeit with a bit of scepticism – and would happily fall asleep listening to the relaxation audio at night.
INSPIRATION In San Francisco, I trained as a postnatal doula. I had become fascinated by birth, labour and the first few weeks of life for mother and baby. I was lucky to have had an inspirational midwife at Queen Charlotte’s, Jenny Smith. Her book Your Baby, Your Body, Your Birth introduced me to hypnobirthing and her concept of surrendering to and protecting “the pink bubble” in the first six weeks after
Kitty with baby Isadora
RETURNING We returned to London and Isadora arrived on November 11. The pregnancy had been straightforward, and we went back to Queen Charlotte’s and Jenny the midwife. The baby was head down and engaged a few weeks before my due date so we waited excitedly. I went into labour the evening of my due date and into hospital the next morning, where she was born in a birthing pool. I believe the mental preparation helped: I felt empowered with knowledge. My strength of feeling since becoming a mother has amazed me: the responsibility, guilt, anxiety, protection, pleasure, joy and the enormity of love has been surprising. And I have had so many questions, from how to get pregnant and how to stay pregnant to what to do if the baby hates the car. Despite being the most natural thing in the world, it seems there are questions about pregnancy, birth and motherhood that may never properly be answered, which makes the fact we’ve been doing it for hundreds of thousands of years all the more miraculous. bl
m Isadora and dad Sa e tim iet qu e enjoy som
SUPPORT
Where to get advice after a miscarriage THE MISCARRIAGE ASSOCIATION This charity offers support and information to anyone affected by miscarriage through its helpline and website, which also has a free private forum where you can share your thoughts, feelings and experiences. miscarriageassociation.org.uk
MISCARRIAGE: WHAT EVERY WOMAN NEEDS TO KNOW by Professor Lesley Regan This is a definitive account of the causes, prevention and treatment of miscarriage written by the director of the world-renowned recurrent miscarriage service at St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington. £9.99, amazon.co.uk More information can also be found at: nhs.uk/conditions/miscarriage
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 81
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RUNNING HEAD
Car seats are a legal requirement for all children from newborn to 12 years of age
t’s one of the most important purchases expectant parents will ever make: a car seat to keep their brand new little bundle safe on the way home from the hospital and beyond. But with ever-changing safety standards, so many different options and a whole new lingo to learn, navigating the process can be tricky. Luckily, Which? is on hand with its trusted advice to expertly guide you through it.
I
Sitting
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
COMFORTABLY SAFE T Y IS EVERY THING WH EN IT COM E S TO CHILDR EN , SO LE T WHICH? H ELP YOU CHOOSE TH E BE ST CAR SE AT FOR YOU R S
KNOW THE LAW When we asked parents about the law surrounding child car seats, we found a worrying lack of awareness, with threequarters (76%) not knowing the law. In the UK, children must normally use a child car seat until they are 12 years old, or 135cm tall, whichever comes first. However, safety experts recommend you use a child car seat for all children under 150cm. ECE R44 is the European safety standard for car seats, which all seats on the UK market must be approved to before they can be sold. Seats approved to R44/04 (or R44/03) or approved under R129 (also known as i-Size) are legal to be sold in the UK. The date the R44/04 is due to be phased out is not fixed yet, but it
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 83
SAFETY
GLOSSARY
The experts at Joie provide a handy guide to understanding car seat lingo COMPLIANCE STICKER are secured by two All car seats must display an ECE R129/00, R44/03 or R44/04 certification label to indicate they comply with the current minimum legal safety requirement.
FIVE-POINT HARNESS A five-point harness works with five main attachment points that make sure that children are restrained by the rigid parts of their body: shoulders and hips. The five-point harness transfers the crash forces from the harness to the rigid points of the body and into the seat.
FORWARD FACING Forward-facing child seats provide impact protection and an integral five-point harness, with a vehicle three-point seatbelt or an impact shield to hold the child in place.
IMPACT SHIELD Impact shields reduce the slipping of a harness. They are secured using the vehicle's three-point seatbelt (and ISOFIX in some models), which in turn secures the seat as a complete unit.
I-SIZE i-Size is the new regulation (ECE R129/00) for child car seats. i-Size will make rear-facing travelling mandatory for children up to 15 months. It uses ISOFIX as the primary fixing method, so you will need a vehicle with ISOFIX fixings.
attachments at the base of each side of the car seat embedded within the vehicle seat structure, usually combined with a third antirotational device (top tether strap or load leg system).
NEWBORN INLAY Provides additional support and padding to a newborn baby when they are using the seat. The inserts also help ensure that babies fit in the harness so they can be properly strapped in.
REAR FACING A rear-facing car seat is the safest way to protect your baby if your car is involved in a head-on collision. This means that the shell of the car seat will absorb most of the impact in an accident, meaning that the chance of injury is reduced.
RECLINE To lean or lie back a car seat in a position with the back supported.
TRAVEL SYSTEM A type of pushchair, stroller or pram that is compatible with a rear-facing infant carrier. The car seat can quickly attach to the wheeled device for ease of transportation when out of the car.
ISOFIX An alternative to securing your car seat with seat belts, instead seats
is expected to run parallel with the R129 until at least 2018. i-Size is part of the European child car seat regulation which came into force in 2015. You can only use an i-Size seat if your car has Isofix connectors. i-Size car seats fit all i-Sizecertified cars and almost all cars with Isofix. Check with your car manufacturer. See also our guide to i-Size car seats at which.co.uk.
THE RIGHT TYPE The first car seat you’ll need is a Group 0+ infant carrier, suitable from birth up to 15
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY Go along to your retailer for a fitting trial. It’s vital you try a child car seat in your car to make sure it fits before you splash the cash. If you plan on using the seat in more than one
NEVER FIT A CHILD CAR SEAT IN FRONT OF AN ACTIVE AIRBAG – IT COULD BE FATAL months old or 13kg (whichever comes first). However, our research has shown mums and dads are unsure when it comes to changing from a Group 0+ to a Group 1 seat. Almost a quarter of parents (22%) falsely believed they should make this change when their child turns one year old, while 26% of parents did not know the answer at all. Parents are therefore exposing their babies to a higher risk of injury in a crash by turning them forward too soon. Moving up to a Group 2 car seat for toddlers happens when your child weighs 18kg or is around four years of age. A Group 2/3 seat is usually the last seat your child will use and will last up to the age of 12 or, ideally, 150cm. After this, they will be able to use an adult seatbelt. There are multi-group seats, which cover from birth to 12 (Group 1/2/3). They may seem like an economical choice, but our crash tests have found many that don’t protect well in every group.
ALWAYS BUY NEW AND READ REVIEWS Never buy a second-hand car seat because it could have been in a crash, which will have weakened it, or the harness may have been weakened over time. You cannot tell just by looking. Our tough crash tests reveal which car seats will best protect your child in the event of a collision. The tests are specially designed by experts to be more
Sitting in th e back is th e safest way i-AnchorSaf to travel! e™ system at joiebaby.co m
84 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
demanding than the legal minimum standard requirements, with frontal and side-impact tests. If a child car seat scores 40% or less in our car seat tests, it automatically becomes a Which? Don’t Buy. Our crash tests have uncovered some car seats that have scored as low as 0%.
car, check it fits each of them and be wary of issues such as under-floor storage, which could prevent the use of a car support seat leg. Don’t buy it unless you’re sure it’s right for you, for your child and all the cars you plan to use it in.
FIT YOUR CAR SEAT CORRECTLY Once you’ve made a purchase, always make sure you ask an expert to show you how to fit the car seat first time around – then practise yourself afterwards. An incorrectly fitted car seat will reduce its protection if you’re involved in a crash. The back of a car is generally considered the safest place for baby or child. If possible, use the centre rear seat, as long as it has a diagonal three-point seatbelt. Never fit a child car seat in front of an active airbag because if it goes off the force could be fatal. If you must have your baby in the front passenger seat, disable the airbag and move the seat back as far as possible. Just remember to ensure you activate the airbag again for an adult passenger. Car seats can be fitted to a car either by using Isofix connectors, or by using the car’s adult seat belt, so the way you fit the seat to your car will be different depending on which model you choose. Our advice is to always read the instructions and warning labels before trying to install the seat, and to get the car seat fit checked by experts. Which? has a free, downloadable guide available at which.co.uk to help parents check whether their seat has been fitted correctly.
SAFETY Recaro Privia £135, mothercare.com
Giraffe Retractable Car Sunblinds £9.99, mothercare.com
Hauck Varioguard £279.99, mothercare.com BeSafe iZi Modular £214.95, johnlewis.com
Whoozit Spiral Toy £17.95, johnlewis.com
Britax Dualfix £340, babydino.com
OUR PICK of THE BEST
Whether you’re purchasing your first car seat or the next stage we’ve got it covered
LambPOD Heather Grey From £70, 7amenfant.co.uk
Joie Every Stage £150, mamasandpapas.com
Skip Hop Bandana Buddies Fox £13.60, johnlewis.com
Nuna Rebl £395, peppermint.co.uk Maxi-Cosi Cabriofix £135, johnlewis.com
Cybex Aton Q Plus £205, huggle.co.uk
Pitter Patter Car Seat £140, cosatto.com Diono Car Seat Organiser £14, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
86 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
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REVIEWS
TOTGEAR
TH E R EVAM PED PHIL & TEDS DOT IS EVEN MOR E CIT YFRIEN DLY THAN BEFOR E. Kate Finney GE TS IN-LIN E PHIL & TEDS DOT V3 REVIEW Think of double buggies and you immediately think of Phil & Teds, so synonymous is the brand with travel solutions for two children. Stacking your children one on top of the other is undeniably the most streamlined option. With a toddler and a new baby I was keen to test out how versatile the new Dot would be.
The Dot V3 can be used as a double for both a new baby and toddler or an older baby
THE LOW DOWN Now sold only as a double, it works both as a single for a new baby or a toddler, or as a double for a newborn baby and a toddler or – if you switch the seats – for an older baby and a toddler. You can attach a carrycot or a car seat, and in single mode you can turn the extra seat so your baby faces you. The new Dot is a fully functioning travel system, with the bonus of being expandable to suit a growing family.
GOOD LOOKING? Very. It sports a smart black frame, wipeable canvas exterior and washable seat liners. But most of all it is just so neat. At only 59cm wide it really is a slimline double. It’s almost impossible to believe there is a baby stashed under the main seat. And in a sleep-deprived fog I may have forgotten once or twice myself.
COMFORT PRACTICALITY AND DRIVEABILITY The aerotech tyres remove the threat of a puncture, but still offer a degree of cushioning for a non-air tyre. At only 59cm wide, it is seriously compact and easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. With most of the weight on the back wheels, it takes on a kerb surprisingly easily, given there are two children on board. The one-hand folding mechanism takes some getting used to (and a second hand) but it is neat once folded. There is an easy-to-use foot brake, an adjustable handlebar and an extendable sun hood. As compact as a single buggy
The baby loves the flat bed
I was worried my toddler would be too big for the smaller second seat but she seems to fit it fine and has even fallen asleep in it. The baby loves the flat bed, which sways a little bit like a hammock. Padded seat liners offer extra comfort, and the five-point safety harnesses are also padded and are easy to adjust.
THE VERDICT I love that this feels like a single buggy even when you have two children on board. It’s perfect for city living, especially as there is no risk of punctures, and it must be one of the most compact doubles on the market. Twice as many children doesn’t have to mean twice as much buggy! bl £399 | philandteds.com/uk
My toddler fits on top
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 89
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HEALTH
health & beauty
NEWS TH E L ATE ST R E SE ARCH AN D DEVELOPM ENTS IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING
TOTAL MAKEOVER
The newly revamped Belsize Health Clinic takes a holistic, organic approach and offers cuttingedge health and beauty treatments in the heart of Belsize Park. The treatment rooms now offer more beauty products and treatments, such as the Heaven Organic Bee Sting Facial, used by the likes of Victoria Beckham, as well as baby massage classes. And there’s even a new fitness studio, so you can pop to Pilates before your appointment. belsizehealth.co.uk
These clever new drops will help your baby digest lactose, leading to a happier tummy. Co Lactase Infant Drops £9.99, weldricks.co.uk
BEYOND BABY BLUES Half of new mums are concerned about mental health, shows research by the National Childbirth Trust. Its #BeyondBabyBlues campaign aims to help those suffering mental health issues associated with childbirth. Show support by sharing a photo on social media of you linking hands with someone. nct.org.uk
PUMP IT UP
Multi-award-winning brand Medela’s Swing Electric Breast Pump is featured in Francesca Hornak’s new History of the World in 100 Modern Objects. Based on the The Sunday Times column, it features today’s most valued products and its inclusion sends a positive message on breastfeeding. medela.com
MORE SMILES A major appeal has been launched to improve the Children’s Intensive Care Unit at St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington. The More Smiles Appeal hopes to raise £2 million towards a £10 million project to create a bigger, state-ofthe-art facility to care for 200 extra children each year. Find out more at moresmiles.org.uk
PREGNANCY CHARITY TOMMY’S HAS LAUNCHED THE #MISCOURAGE CAMPAIGN TO ENCOURAGE WOMEN TO SPEAK MORE OPENLY ABOUT MISCARRIAGE
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 91
HEALTH
IT’S energy O’CLOCK! FEEL AMA ZING ALL DAY LONG WITH N UTRITIONIST Louise Pyne’s ROU N D -TH E- CLOCK GUIDE 7AM
8AM
8.30AM
9AM
Swap caffeine for a natural pick-me-up. Ginseng is immune-enhancing and has a natural pep. Sip Birt & Tang Ginseng Tea, £4.49, birtandtang.co.uk
Kick off your day with a good breakfast such as porridge with berries and seeds. Oats release energy slowly so you feel fuller for longer whilst seeds are a good source of protein and berries are rich in antioxidants.
Whether you’ve given birth recently, are breastfeeding or need a kickstart, a postnatal multivitamin can help boost your nutrient stores.
The sun is shining so take your baby outdoors for a morning stroll. Power walking offers a gentle (yet effective) postnatal workout while exposure to sunlight increases moodboosting vitamin D stores.
11AM
12PM
12.30PM
2PM
Whizz together healthy goodies such as kale, cucumber, apple and lemon for a quick and easy mid-morning nutrient-filled smoothie.
Want to snap back into shape? Have a spoon of coconut oil, thought to boost metabolism. Try Lucy Bee Organic Coconut Oil, £6.50, lucybee.co
Eating three meals a day will provide your body with the energy to care for your baby. Speedy meals like baked sweet potato with tuna, a chicken and salad wrap or lentil soup will leave you feeling energised.
Looking after a little one is demanding, so keep healthy snacks to hand. Nibble on oatcakes with hummus or fruit with nuts to keep blood sugar levels balanced and energy levels high.
ENJOY A HEALTHY BREW
GET JUICING
3PM
TAKE A NAP
As your baby goes down for her afternoon nap, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to catch up on your own zzzs. Research shows that power naps improve alertness and slash stress levels. Win-win!
7PM
ENJOY DINNER
Meals combining lean protein with complex carbs are a surefire weight-loss formula for mums. Nosh on grilled salmon with roasted veggies or bean stew with brown rice.
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EAT BREAKFAST
HAVE SOME OIL
4PM
DRINK WATER
Chugging back at least eight glasses of water a day is a simple way to melt away post-baby pounds thanks to its toxin-flushing, belly debloating properties. Liven up plain H20 with lemon or cucumber.
8PM
RELAX
If your baby’s old enough to have started to form a routine, hopefully she’s now asleep, so it’s your turn to kick back and relax. Run a hot bath, grab a glass of wine – whatever you need to unwind. Ahhh!
POP A MULTIVITAMIN
EAT LUNCH
BE ACTIVE
HAVE A SNACK
5PM
6PM
Being a mum is emotionally demanding so taking time to destress will help wellbeing. Pop your baby in her bouncer and spend 10 minutes breathing in deeply through the nose and out through the mouth.
Studies show that soft, slow music helps to increase serotonin and decrease adrenaline, so play classical tunes to help settle you and your baby as the day ends.
BREATHE DEEPLY
10PM
LIGHTS OUT
The chances are your baby is an early riser, so size up your bedtime slumber to make sure that you’re brighteyed when your mini alarm clock sounds.
LISTEN TO RELAXING TUNES
GET MORE ONLINE Discover plenty more practical parenting tips on every aspect of raising your baby from a beautiful bump to a thriving toddler at babylondon.co.uk
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EXERCISE
WORK IT BABY! Whether you’re cardio crazy or a downward dog devotee, here’s our top 10 classes for pre- and postnatal exercise
YOGABELLIES
Where: across London Choose between prenatal yoga and an aqua class. YogaBellies incorporates traditional yoga postures, self-hypnosis and soothing techniques for birthing, while AquaBellies classes offer light cardio, games and strength sessions in the pool. yogabellies.co.uk
MATERNALLY FIT
Where: across London A fitness service focusing on cardio and strength training, its classes mainly use an exercise ball and hand weights. Physiotherapists who specialise in pregnancy fitness conduct the training. maternallyfit.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
BUMPS AND BURPEES
Where: Chelsea At Bumps and Burpees babies are more than welcome to come along, too. It has a dedicated pre- and postnatal fitness space housed in the Lomax facility, and each client receives a free screening session to tailor a bespoke fitness programme to suit their own pregnancy goals. lomaxpt.com
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 95
EXERCISE
DRESS THE PART 1 Experts can help you get back into shape after baby in a safe and fun way
2
3
REEBOK SPORTS CLUB
Where: Canary Wharf From antenatal aqua to bumpercise, Reebok offers a range of pregnancy classes to help you stay fit and well throughout your pregnancy and beyond. reebokclub.co.uk
MY BABY PILATES
Where: Fulham Exercises are modified according to your trimester, physical ability and doctor’s recommendations to help get you fit for delivery and prepared for your recovery. mybabypilates.co.uk
BUGGYFIT
Where: across London The largest buggy workout network in the UK. You’ll endure an hour-long fitness class along a three- to five-mile route. Activities include group exercises selected to strengthen and tone particular muscle groups, and enable you to cope with the demands of motherhood. buggyfit.co.uk
FRAME
Where: Kings Cross, Shoreditch or Queens Park A variety of postnatal classes with or without baby. Bring your little one to Frame Mums Club and use them as a weight or have them dance to the music – a great chance to bond with baby and keep active, too. moveyourframe.com
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4
SLICE STUDIOS
Where: Parsons Green Its Mum and Baby Bootcamp is a fat-burning, core-conditioning, full-body toning, all-round workout, which is open to all abilities. Babies are welcome to bop along in their buggies or play in the créche while you break a sweat. slicestudios.co.uk
5
CARIFIT
Where: across London This programme has been carefully created for new mothers with babies aged six weeks to six months, and is the perfect opportunity to get closer to your baby while working out. The 30-minute routine focuses on restoring your core, strengthening your posture, toning key areas and increasing your heart rate. carifit.co.uk
TRIYOGA
Where: Camden and Chelsea Triyoga runs more than 400 classes per week. You can start its pregnancy yoga classes in your second trimester or, if you already have a little one, try its Mummy and Me Postnatal Yoga Class. New mums can de-stress and relax, bond with their baby and strengthen their back, abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. triyoga.co.uk
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IT’S ALL MILK,
isn’t it?
BR E ASTMILK CAN CHANGE DU RING A FEED. LOUISA VAN DEN BERGH OF LU LU BABY E XPL AIN S TH E DIFFER EN CE BE T WEEN FOR EMILK AN D HIN DMILK
C
GRADUAL TRANSITION Foremilk is typically described as the milk that is released at the beginning of a feed, while hindmilk comes towards the end of a feed. There is, however, no sudden switch, which is why I find these terms problematic. It is a gradual transition, similar to the way a hot water tap starts running cold but gradually warms up. Mums can often see their milk is a different colour and consistency depending on the stage they are at in the feed. Foremilk is runnier and often more grey in hue, while the hindmilk is creamier in colour and consistency. I often tell my mums it’s like baby is having a meal: they start with a drink, then a light starter and the main course, followed by the creamy, fat-rich pudding, which is less plentiful but highest in calories.
WHY THEY MAY MATTER There is some debate in breastfeeding circles as to whether mums should learn about these two terms. Are we just worrying and confusing mothers even more? For many mothers whose babies are thriving
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and content, there is no reason to complicate matters. However, I think there are two important reasons why mums should be aware that there is a change in their milk, even if they can’t remember the precise terminology.
FAT CONTENT The first reason is that foremilk is generally lower in fat content, while the hindmilk is higher in fat. The consequence is that, if a mother does not “do” one breast well but offers both for a short time, her baby may be hungry soon after feeding because they have not had the benefit of the satisfying, fat-rich hindmilk. This transition happens because, as milk is produced in the breast, fat globules tend to stick together and to the walls of the milk-making alveoli. When baby is not feeding, the milk amasses in the breasts and moves towards the nipple making them feel fuller, while the fat gets “stuck” further back in the milk ducts. As you progress through a feed, the globules are drawn down and the fat content of the milk increases.
LACTOSE OVERLOAD? The second reason is that foremilk is higher in lactose than the hindmilk. Lactose is an essential part of your baby’s diet and, in basic terms, most babies are born with a suitable amount of lactase, which breaks down the lactose. The problems begin if a baby is receiving too much foremilk. She will also receive higher quantities of lactose,
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
hances are, if you breastfed, you are aware of the terms foremilk and hindmilk. For some mothers, understanding how their milk changes is crucial to successful breastfeeding. For other mums, ignorance is bliss. So what exactly are foremilk and hindmilk?
HEALTH
which she may struggle to cope with. A baby that is receiving too much foremilk may be uncomfortable, in pain and windy, as well as having explosive green stools.
HOW LONG? Not understanding that your baby needs to drain one breast fully can sometimes lead to uncomfortable, unhappy babies, which require extremely regular feeding. At this stage, mums often ask me, “How long should I feed on one side to make sure that my baby gets the right balance?” It is a good question, and one only mum can really answer. It depends on several factors including the speed of her let down, the efficacy of her baby’s sucking and how long it has been since the last feed. This last point is important and it’s worth noting that, if it has not been very long since the last feed, the hindmilk is more readily accessed – again, a bit like that hot water tap. If you go back to it soon after you have turned it off, the water will run warm and get hot more quickly than if you left it for a long time.
YOU ARE THE EXPERT Mums are quick to get to know their babies and how they feed. One way of checking is to see the colour of the milk and softness of the breast. For many mums, a quick squeeze of the
I TELL MUMS IT’S LIKE BABY IS HAVING A MEAL: A DRINK, STARTER, MAIN AND THEN THE FAT-RICH PUDDING breast will indicate how full it is and how well their baby has fed from it – something that is hard to imagine while you are pregnant but, once you are in the thick of feeding, you will understand where I am coming from. And you can never have an empty breast. There is always something there, even if the milk is not very plentiful. While there is no need for many mums to be aware of the nature of their milk, it is helpful to be aware that there is a gradual change in milk during the feed. Mum should make sure that her baby has a good feed from one side, before offering the second side. In this way, she can ensure her baby has a full “meal”. After all, in my book, no meal is complete without pudding. bl lulubaby.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 99
You’re In safe hands The birth of your baby is a moment you’ll always treasure. having your child delivered by a team you know and trust gives you the comfort every mother wants. at The Portland hospital, you’ll have the security of knowing our critical care units are in-house. With our resident Consultant obstetric anaesthetist, adult high dependency unit, neonatal Intensive Care unit, special Care Baby unit and Transitional care unit on hand 24/7, we’re ready for those very rare occasions when extra immediate support is needed. You’re guaranteed one to one care from some of the country’s finest consultant obstetricians and midwives, so it’s no wonder more than 1,600 expectant mothers a year choose to have their babies with us. Plus your partner can stay with you overnight in our range of luxury en-suite rooms.
discover how you can experience the best in private maternity care, call us on 020 8003 3628
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EXPERTS OU R PROFE SSIONAL S GIVE YOU TH E LOWDOWN ON BIRTH AN D BEYON D
BREATHING DURING LABOUR Dr Penelope Law Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at The Portland Hospital Whether you are planning a water, vaginal or hypnobirth, managing your breathing can help you to relax and focus during your contractions. Here is how to maximise the benefits of breathing during labour. How can breathing act as a natural form of pain relief during labour? Practising controlled breathing has many benefits during labour. Not only does it help to keep your muscles relaxed but it also ensures there is an adequate supply of oxygen all around the body. Training the mind to focus on inhaling and exhaling to develop a steady rhythm will also ensure you feel calmer, more focused and more in control of your labour. What is the best way to manage your breathing during labour? Managing your breathing is a skill that comes with training and practice. It is best to master your breathing well in advance and women are encouraged to attend specially designed
102 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
antenatal classes where they can learn techniques and rhythms that are proven to reduce the intensity of contractions. During the initial stage of labour you will likely be encouraged to breathe in and out slowly. The best technique is to inhale through your nostrils and count to five, and then exhale through your mouth for five seconds. As your labour intensifies, you will find your breathing naturally becomes stronger and more prolonged, and you may benefit from taking two to three breaths per contraction. How can breathing help to manage the first stages of labour? The first stage of labour is often the longest. It can be a tiring time for expectant mothers, who will experience a mild contraction every 15 or so minutes. These contractions can feel similar to strong period cramps and concentrating on managing your breathing can help you to focus throughout the contraction. Other non-medicinal pain relief includes having a warm bath or using a TENs machine. How can breathing help in the later stages? Active labour is said to have begun once your cervix is 2-3cms dilated, and you are having regular and strong contractions that become more intense. During active labour your midwife will encourage you to maintain a deep and rhythmic breathing pattern with each contraction. It is remarkable how much focusing on your breathing, with help from your partner or a recording, can help you to relax. However, if at any point if this is not enough to keep you comfortable advise your midwife who can offer you a range of options. Remember, you do not need to be in pain. Why should you switch between shallow and deep breathing during labour? During the second stage of labour, when you are ready to start pushing, your body will let you know how your breathing can help you to deliver your baby. Try to hold your breath and push into your bottom, as if you were constipated, for as long as you can. A good length of time to aim for is about as long as it takes to swim a length of a 20m pool underwater without coming up to take a breath. It can be useful to practise this antenatally in the pool. Once you hear your midwife or doctor advising you to stop pushing and lightly pant, you know your baby is about to be born and you have done all the hard work. 020 7390 6068 theportlandhospital.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
HEALTH
HEALTH
CREATING A SAFE SLEEP ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR BABY Katie Hilton Registered midwife and health visitor working with iCandy Regardless of whether you are at home, out and about or away with the family, you will always want to provide your baby with a safe sleeping environment. Good sleep habits are also important for your baby’s physical health and emotional wellbeing. The safest place for your baby to sleep in the first six months is in a cot, moses basket or carrycot. Always be sure to place your baby to sleep on his back, with his feet at the foot of the carrycot. This helps to reduce the risk of sudden infant death
UNUSED EXPRESSED BREAST MILK Deearna Withey Premature, newborn, toddler and multiples consultant Did you know that unused expressed breast milk has many uses? Never throw it away! Here are my five top tips. Milk bath: It’s brilliant for softening your baby’s skin. Collect any unused milk during the day, shake and mix throughout the bath water. Do not add anything else to the bath.
syndrome (SIDS). Don’t be tempted to use a pillow; your baby needs a surface that is firm and flat. Position your baby out of direct sunlight, away from windows, radiators and lamps. This will help keep your baby at a safe and comfortable temperature. Room temperature should be 16-20c. If you find the room cooler or warmer than necessary, dress your baby accordingly, and remove or add a layer of bedding if needed. Buy a room thermometer to ensure the room is always the right temperature. Don’t cover your baby with too much bedding or wrap them in lots of clothes. As a rule of thumb, don’t use more than you would yourself. Avoid quilts and duvets until your baby is more than one year old. Finally, make sure your baby’s sleep environment is smoke-free. Ensure all smoking guests wash their hands and remove their top layer of clothing before going near your baby. All iCandy carrycots are certified safe for overnight sleep, and are ideal for use around the home and when away.
Sticky eyes: Get a cotton wool pad (not cotton wool balls), add a little unused breast milk and wipe it along the eye. Do not use the same cotton wool on both eyes and never use the same piece to go over the same eye twice. Nappy rash: First, cool the milk in the fridge and then apply to baby’s bottom with cotton wool and pat – do not rub in with your hands. Leave to dry with baby’s nappy off. Face wash: Add to some warm water, mix and then pat onto baby’s skin. Do not rub. Ear infections: Warm the milk just a little and then drip a couple of drops into the ear. The milk needs to be less than 12 hours old. This can be very effective. 07771 660121 deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk
BABY’S BRAIN GROWTH
Melanie Lawson
Founder of Bare Biology Omega 3 During pregnancy, women are advised to make sure they have enough Omega 3 in their diet, but most don’t know why. In a nutshell, DHA (a type of Omega 3) is essential for the proper growth and development of babies’ eyes and brains. Our brains are 60% fat and around 20% should be made of Omega 3 fatty acids. During pregnancy and infancy, an insufficient intake of DHA has been shown in many studies to greatly impact the development of babies’ brains. Research shows that babies with Omega 3/DHA deficient diets have 50% fewer synapses. A study into the diet of 12,000 pregnant women, which was published in the Lancet, found that children of those who consumed the lowest amount of Omega 3 were more likely to score in the lowest quartile on IQ tests. During the last trimester of pregnancy (week 28 onwards) a baby’s brain grows by an astonishing 260%, so it’s crucial that the mother has adequate DHA intake during this time. The DOLAB study is one of the most quoted in recent times. It looked into the effect of Omega 3 on the behaviour, memory and reading of healthy children aged between seven and nine. After six weeks of taking a DHA supplement, the study found the children with below-average reading ability (under the 20th centile) showed significant improvements. Confusingly, pregnant women are also advised to avoid too much fish because of the levels of mercury, especially tinned tuna, which incidentally doesn’t contain any Omega 3 contrary to popular belief. So it’s advisable for women to take a very good quality, pure supplement to reduce the risk of DHA deficiency while being safe when it comes to mercury intake. barebiology.com
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 103
INNOVATIVE AND EXPERT ADVICE ON PARENTING Establishing routine Fostering positive behaviour Sleep and food issues Language development
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01392 877 247 Notting Hill Shop ~ 99 Talbot Road, London, W11 2AT 01/12/2015 14:09
INTERVIEW
Time to Talk…
Missed our first part? Check out babylondon.co.uk to see all of Marina and Chiara’s discussions
CAESAREANS part 2 MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT
It’s the second part to our c-section special, and this issue the sisters discuss in detail what to expect during the procedure
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
H
aving a caesarean is a unique experience. In no other situation does open surgery have such an air of excitement. The moment your baby is born and delivered into your arms is an instant of unparalleled joy. It is crucial you are relaxed and enjoy the day. Many women, even those having emergency caesareans, are surprised how relaxed the operating theatre seems. The radio will be on or you can choose music, and the anaesthetist will probably chat to you. Unless there is an unusual situation, you will be awake. Before surgery, you will have an intravenous line inserted and the epidural will be administered. A catheter will also be inserted and the area around the incision shaved. You will be on a firm bed so narrow you may feel like you are going to fall off; don’t worry, you’re strapped on.
There are lot of medics in the room. This is something we warn The Bump Class about so they don’t think it means there is a problem. In an elective c-section there may be up to 10 staff, and it’s standard to have a paediatric team in an emergency c-section, bringing the number up to around 12. They all have a role and a lot of those roles are precautionary. A screen will be put between your head and lower body so you can’t see any of the operation. There are lots of machines around – they are standard, so try to ignore them. You are usually allowed one person with you in the theatre. They will be asked to wear surgical scrubs and sit on a stool next to your head. The obstetrician will make a small incision just above your pubic bone, trying to keep this as small as possible. Your muscles will be pulled aside – not cut as so many women believe. Another
incision will be made in your uterus. Even if your waters have broken, there will still be amniotic fluid around your baby and a suction machine, similar to the dentist’s, will be used. When you hear this distinctive noise, you know your baby is about to be born. You will feel a tugging or pulling sensation, as well as a lot of pressure on your tummy. This is a surgeon pushing your baby from behind to help him out. The team will often lower the screen so you can see the baby just after he is born. Many women are surprised at how quick the procedure is; your baby is usually out in 15 minutes. The rest of the operation can take another 40 minutes but this will pass quickly as you will be looking at your baby for the first time! Your baby will be checked by the midwife or paediatrician before being given to you or your partner to hold. If you are keen to
have skin-to-skin contact, ask to leave one arm out of the surgical gown you’ll be wearing so you can lie your baby on your chest. Once the operation is finished, you will transfer to the recovery room where you will be monitored for about an hour. You will be on a bed, so this is a good time for skin-to-skin contact and that all-important first feed. Once you are stable, you will be moved to a postnatal room. The epidural will wear off over the next few hours and you will slowly be allowed to eat and drink. Most women stay in hospital for two or three nights. The midwives will encourage you to get up and about as soon as possible. This will feel very sore but gets better quickly, and getting mobile will speed up your recovery. Next issue they’ll be discussing recovering from a c-section. thebumpclass.com
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 105
RUNNING HEAD
MERINO KIDS™
the natural choice
ROCK THAT
ROUTINE
GOOD HABITS WILL R E AP R EWAR DS SAYS LIT TLE ROUTIN E’S NOR L AN D BABY CON SU LTANT Gillian Stewar t
I
eing a mum is not easy. Everyone assumes that because you have had a baby you know what to do, but babies don’t come with their own manuals. It can be overwhelming trying to decide whose advice to take. Try to remember there isn’t a wrong way to care for your baby, as long as it is safe. I trained at the Norland College and have had three children, so I am aware how difficult it can be to put even the best advice into practice. New mums often ask me what I think is the single most important tip for coping with a baby. Without a moment’s hesitation I say, “routine”.
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A routine needs to have structure with some flexibility. Life goes on, and it is not sustainable for you to stay at home and dedicate every hour to your baby. Feeding when you are out is possible. In the early days, it can seem daunting but your baby will learn to nap away from home. If there are siblings, you want to be able to slot your baby into their routine. Most babies will slot into a three-hourly routine if you guide them, but they need time to adjust. Your baby is looking to you for help because he can’t do it alone. A flexible routine will teach your baby what is expected of him, and knowing when feeds and naps are due will allow you to plan your days. It will give you confidence – if you are confident, your baby will feel safe, relaxed and calm too.
SLEEPING Babies aren’t born with their body clocks set. If you let your baby make the decisions, he
will always choose to party at night and sleep all day. Babies get tired after being awake for about an hour-and-a-half – any longer and they become overtired and find it difficult to settle. All babies need one long stretch of sleep in a 24-hour period and you want this to be at night. The best sleepers are babies who have been taught to self-settle. By putting babies to sleep fed and settled, but still awake, you will be allowing them to fall asleep on their own. My golden rule for a peaceful evening is to not let your baby sleep after 5pm. This is the time for him to be awake, have a snack
RUNNING HEAD
MERINO KIDS™
the natural choice
Slotting baby into the existing bedtime routine means everyone can have peaceful evening
and enjoy bath time before the bedtime feed and sleep. Other siblings can enjoy bath time, too, and have their story time while you are feeding your baby. Bedtime needs to be consistent, calm and positive. The goal is to have your baby in bed by 7pm. Swaddling may help. Babies are born with the Moro reflex. When startled, they wave their arms uncontrollably causing them to brush their hands across their mouth stimulating the sucking reflex. Babies wake thinking it is time for a feed. Swaddling makes them feel secure and able to sleep peacefully.
FEEDING Good feeds are also key to a successful routine, so wake your baby for feeds during the day. Encourage him to feed well every three hours
or so and wake him if he falls asleep. Just because your baby dozes off during a feed, it doesn’t mean he has had enough. If you try to put him down to sleep, he will wake after a few minutes feeling hungry. If your baby is hungry after two-and-a-half hours, you must feed him. I don’t let babies go longer than four hours between feeds during the day. I know that many parents think it is cruel to wake their baby for feeds. It is not.
IF YOU LET YOUR BABY MAKE THE DECISIONS, HE WILL CHOOSE TO PARTY AT NIGHT We all need to sleep, not just your baby, and we need it at the right time so that we are able to cope with life’s daily demands.
MOVING FORWARD
MY FIVE TOP TIPS FOR SETTING A ROUTINE 1. Teach your baby to self-settle. 2. Encourage good nap times so your baby isn’t overtired. 3. Wake your baby for regular, good feeds during the day. 4. No sleeping past 5pm for a 7pm bedtime. 5. Have a calm bedtime at the same time each evening.
Many of the problems parents encounter with their toddlers and young children stem from lack of routine. Set boundaries and, if you remain consistent, everything else will follow. As your baby grows, you will be able to shorten daytime naps and move feeds on to become family meals. You will have a happy child who is eager to learn and enjoy life, and you will feel confident and in control. Babies don’t judge you or hold grudges. They love you unconditionally, so approach a routine with a positive mind. Be confident you will be doing the best for your baby. You will be rewarded with a happy, content and inquisitive child ready to conquer everything with confidence, trust and huge smiles. littleroutines.co.uk
Safe Sleep and Better Routines for Newborns, Babies and Toddlers. www.merinokids.co.uk Call +44 (0)207 738 0977 or visit us at 151 Northcote Road, Battersea, London SW11 6QB
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 107
BABY TALK
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BABY TALK
y r Dia of a
mum
Part 16
IN TH E FINAL PART OF OU R SERIE S, MUM- OF-TH R EE Becky Dickinson SAYS GOODBYE AN D WIPE S A WISTFU L TE AR y youngest is almost three. Three. How did that happen? I started writing Diary of a Mum when she was just a faint blue line on a white stick. Before I lost the final third of my sanity – along with the car keys. Before I knew what it was like to have more children than hands: the sleep deprivation, the tantrums, the joy, the chaos, the perpetual challenge of trying to juggle work and motherhood. But as my tiniest human is no longer quite so tiny, it’s time to move on. This is my last Diary of a Mum. There will be no more blue lines for me – other than those drawn in felt tip over the walls. Child number three is my last, unless, of course, something wildly unexpected occurs. Assuming it doesn’t, my uterus is off the hook. Every month is now a countdown to the menopause, when there will no longer be that outside chance of a little surprise. The odds are off. My nearly three-year-old is marching daily towards increased independence and self-reliance. She shouts above the racket of her brother and sister – it’s survival of the loudest when you’re number three. She doesn’t want to hold my hand when we go for a walk. Nor does she want to sit in the buggy. She refuses to let me put her socks on, even when we are late and she can’t figure out where the heel goes. She’s trying to tell me her baby days are over, and so are mine. With my first two children, I couldn’t wait for them to learn to get themselves dressed, go to the toilet alone and sleep past 5am. But with my third, much as these things would make life easier, they will also signify the end of an era – one that has been as enchanting as it is exhausting and, at times, frustrating. It’s not that I want another baby. There are so many reasons why a fourth child wouldn’t be a good idea: sanity (already questionable), finances (lack of), sleep (lack of), age (ascending), pelvic floor (tell me you don’t clench when you hear those words), not to mention pregnancy, labour and the fact my partner would rather emigrate than endure another newborn. I know I’ve reached my limit. I’ve been blessed with three healthy children and a fourth would probably put me in The Priory. But however many children you have, there will always be something a little bit sad about blowing the final whistle.
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I didn’t know I was a baby person until I had my own; until I felt the weight and warmth of another human being in my arms and fell in love in a way that was scary, crazy and incredible all at once. I remember the fear that it wouldn’t be the same the second or the third time round, and the rushing relief that it was. But there won’t be a fourth time. I’m done. Yet even though they’re big(ish) and I couldn’t possibly love them any more than I do, there will always be a part of me that can’t help lingering over the new arrivals page in the local paper gazing at the new mums with swept-back hair and bloodshot eyes, who don’t care they’re wearing pyjamas and no make-up. Because whatever pain and gore they’ve just survived, they are now holding the most precious thing in the universe and it was all worth it. Those pages are bad for my ovaries.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
THERE WILL ALWAYS BE A PART OF ME THAT LINGERS OVER THE NEW ARRIVALS PAGES They make me wonder how long I’ll have to wait for a grandchild, whether it will be even a fraction as amazing as the first time around and whether I can wait that long, or could I possibly squeeze out just one more to tide me over. And then I remind myself that I haven’t had a decent night’s sleep in more than eight years. I look at my little trio and I’m thankful they are all ok, and here. Another one would mean even less time to go around. And sometimes it feels like there isn’t enough of that already. Friends tell me it gets easier as they get older. They’re probably right and I know there is so much more to look forward to in my children’s lives, possibly even sleeping past 5am. But I can’t help wishing they wouldn’t grow up quite so fast. Better get a puppy, then. bl If you missed any of Becky’s hilarious adventures in early motherhood check them all out at babylondon.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 109
SHOPPING
Best for
EARS
THE REVIEW
WH E TH ER IT’S HOT FOR EH E ADS OR COOL ROOMS, Laura Mason PUTS TH ER MOM E TER S TO TH E TE ST TO TACKLE YOU R TEM PER ATU R E CON CER N S
Best for
EASE
Best for
BATHS
Best for
ROOMS Best for
HEADS
BROTHER MAX
BRAUN
PHILIPS AVENT
VITAL BABY
ACTIV8RLIVES
This uses infrared technology for a quick and accurate result, which claims to get within 0.2 degrees in just one second. Its curved, wipe-clean probe is perfect for little ears, and it is also handy for travel coming with a hard casing that protects it when you are on the go. £37.99 | mothercare.com
Preventing the need to wake babies is always a plus, and this no-touch device lets you record forehead temperature from as far as 5cm away. The subtle backlight and absence of sound are also a welcome addition for night-time check-ups. A great fuss-free option. £42.99 | boots.com
This flower-shaped thermometer doubles as a handy toy to provide stimulation for baby during bath time. It floats in water and has an easy-to-read digital display that guides parents to the optimum water temperature. Available in baby blue or pale pink. £19.99 | babythingz.com
This bear character makes a colourful addition to a nursery. A large LCD screen gets the thumbs up for clarity, while a warning light alerts parents to any concerning changes in temperature. It is also reasonably priced and has a high level of accuracy. £9.99 | vitalbaby.co.uk
This fantastic all-rounder will record body, ambient room and surface temperature, making it ideal for the whole family. You’ll need an Android smartphone, iPhone or iPad to link to the free app, but it is spot-on for keeping records. £39.99 | amazon.co.uk
Three-in-One Thermometer
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No Touch + Forehead Thermometer
Baby Bath and Room Thermometer
Nurture Digital Bath and Room Thermometer
Contactless Infrared Thermometer Bluetooth 4.0
Peaceful bedtime for baby, peace of mind for you. With a dreamy lightshow and soothing lullabies, the BT Video Baby Monitor 7500 Lightshow helps your little one drift peacefully to sleep.
BT Video Baby Monitor 7500 Lightshow
• 3.5" colour touchscreen display • Remote pan, tilt and zoom video • Crystal clear HD sound • Talk back to your baby • Night light • Connect up to 4 cameras
Find out more at shop.bt.com
BT Baby Monitor 350 Lightshow
BT Baby Monitor 300
INTERIORS
YOURS TO KEEP Some things are worth holding on to. Here’s our pick of nursery interior pieces that are sure to stand the test of time
abies come with a deluge of stuff and, as most parents are acutely aware, the majority of it is disposable. Clothes are quickly outgrown, toys discarded, bibs, bottles and baby monitors binned. But this doesn’t have to be the case with everything you buy. These days, there are so many transitional interior pieces that can grow alongside your baby to last them throughout their childhood days and, in some cases, become treasured heirlooms. Savvy parents looking to invest in something that will hold its emotional and financial value are increasingly turning to furniture. The most obvious investment piece is a cot that can transform into a toddler bed (or more), but other essentials, such as changing tables or rocking chairs, can be just as useful and clever. The key is to think ahead. For example, a beautiful blanket box could start life storing toys and hold everything from clothes and school work over a childhood, before being dragged off to university as storage and a seat. Or a Gustavian dresser might start life with its removeable changing-table top, only to be reborn as a chest of drawers for clothes or toys once the baby days are over. More than anything, investment pieces are a great way to ensure your child stays connected to their childhood as they grow, as well as giving them something they may treasure for their whole lives.
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Stokke Sleepi 112 ÂŁ575, | JAN/FEB stokke.com 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
INTERIORS Laurette Mischief Wardrobe £954.99, smallable.com
iCandy MiChair Coming soon, icandyworld.com
Kutikai Peekaboo Wardrobe £895.95, lullabuy.co.uk
Tripp Trapp £159.99, stokke.com
Nomi High Chair £179, bebemoda.co.uk
TRANSITIONAL INTERIOR PIECES CAN GROW ALONGSIDE YOUR BABY
HIGH CHAIRS
These will see you through from birth to your child’s early teens
Makula Blanket £180, caramel-shop.co.uk Sparrow Cot Bed by Oeuf £659, bobokids.co.uk
Grand Old Mohair Teddy Bear £350, steiff.com
Dawn Expandable Cot Bed £549, boori.com
Be Cot with Fixed Rails £556, shanael.com
Kalon Studios Caravan Crib £965, nubie.co.uk
COTS
These will see you through to the toddler years and beyond
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 113
CHILDHOOD ECZEMA HOW INFORMED ARE YOU? czema or atopic dermatitis is thought to affect 1 in 5 babies in the UK. If your little one suffers with eczema you are not alone and share your concerns with thousands of other parents across the country.
How to care for your baby’s skin
After 9 months in the womb, your baby’s skin is highly sensitive to the chemicals that can be found in many mainstream baby skin care products. The first year of life is crucial to the health of your baby’s skin; still developing it is 30% thinner than at 12 months. This delicate skin is more prone to water loss which leads to dryness, making it a less effective barrier against chemical toxins. The early introduction of harsh toiletries onto delicate skin may be a factor in the rising rates of eczema and allergies in children.
Be informed & skin smart
It is important to avoid toiletries that contain harsh foaming agents, sensitising preservatives and perfumes, as these are known irritants to eczema-prone skin. By choosing ‘natural products’ it doesn’t guarantee they will be free from nasties. Did you know, a product only needs to contain 1% natural ingredients to be classed as ‘natural’? Choose trusted organic products like the Organic Babies range which is certified organic and naturally free from parabens, MI, artificial colours, lanolin, ethyl alcohol and petrochemicals.
Natural goodness you can trust
One to try - Organic Babies Soothing Baby Salve is certified organic and rich in Shea butter and Calendula which reduces inflammation and skin soreness, plus Omega-3&6 fatty acids which are essential for healthy skin. Baby Salve is beautifully nurturing for ultra dry skin and trusted to deliver results without chemical nasties. Organic Babies use only the best ingredients with all products suitable for babies and children who may be prone to eczema. Available from John Lewis, Ocado and independent health stores.
01403 740350
Visit www.greenpeople.co.uk/babies for 20% discount.
Baby Fact 1 in 5 children in the UK has eczema
SAVE 20% on Organic Babies, Quote BABYLD16 Expires 31.03.16
INTERIORS
Wooden Name Train From £5, theletteroom.com
Savills Drag POA, harrods.com
Appropriated Alphabet Set by Sir Peter Blake £10,250, picture.gb.com
INVESTMENT PIECES ENSURE CHILDREN STAY CONNECTED TO THEIR CHILDHOOD CHANGING TABLES These gorgeous pieces will see you through a whole lifetime
Laurette Changing Table £60.75, smallable.com
Bunny Ear Chair £3,850, bluealmonds.co.uk
Kalon Studio Caravan Dresser £1,232, nubie.co.uk
The Little Prince £12.99, piccoliandco.com Gustavian Dresser £799, piccoliandco.com Mozartkugel Music Box £64.99, toyella.com
The Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Andersen £24.99, piccoliandco.com babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 115
potters crouch
Lovingly hand made with traditional
passionate about fragrance since 1986
ingredients... especially for you!
Discover why more discerning mums are choosing Potters Crouch for their home fragrance – and recommending us to their friends. It could be the pure clean pharmaceutical grade waxes that don’t smoke and soot as they burn; perhaps it’s the fine natural French perfumes delivering outstanding fragrances that permeate the whole house; maybe it’s just the brilliant customer care or free delivery on most orders. Either way you’ll be delighted you bought a Potters Crouch fragrant product
Tel: 01727 836454 Email: info@potterscrouchcandles.co.uk Prae Wood Farm Barn, Hemel Hempstead Road, St Albans AL3 6AA
www.potterscrouchcandles.co.uk
STUDIO OPEN Monday to Friday 9 - 5.30 Saturday 9.30 – 5.00
INTERIORS
SCENTSATION Relax and indulge with the finest candles this winter
Jo Malone White Jasmine and Mint £42 | johnlewis.com
Uplifting Orange Clove and Cedarwood £25 | zitawest.com
Cocolux Sweet Pomegranate and Acai £36 | selfridges.com
Gorse £39 | laboratoryperfumes.com
Repair and Restore £29 | greenandspring.com
White Rose and Lemon Leaves £45 | joloves.com
Roja Parfums Jasmin de Grasse £75 | harrods.com
Real Luxury £45 | neomorganics.com
Relieve and Relax for Pregnancy £30 | joyandjoice.com
Le Labo Santal 26 £47 | liberty.co.uk
The Glass Vessel £59 | feudebeaumont.com
Duchess £45 | ralphlauren.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 117
FOOD
WE’VE GOAT IT COVERED
Goat’s milk has been praised by nutritionists for having less allergenic proteins, less lactose and more digestible fat than cow’s milk, so here’s our pick of goat’s milk formulas:
NANNYcare NANNYcare’s formula is based on 25 years of research in goat milk-based nutrition and is made from the finest New Zealand goat milk with no added whey protein. It is clinically proven to give nutritional outcomes comparable to breastfeeding. nannycare.com
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
Kabrita Kabrita’s three goat’s milk formulas are created to meet the nutritional requirements for different stages in your baby’s or toddler’s development. They’re enriched with vitamins, minerals, unsaturated fatty acids (DHA & AA) and prebiotic fibres (GOS) to ensure that your baby gets all the nutrients that he or she needs. kabrita.com
HIGH AND MIGHTY
Cosatto is on a mission to save the world from boring baby stuff and is doing so by bringing the thrill of colour, pattern and quirky design to mundane, everyday items. Its vibrant highchairs will make your little one want to laugh through lunch and dance through dinner with their vibrant colours and bold patterns. Cosatto’s adjustable highchairs cover all courses from baby to toddler and truly put the ‘fun’ into functionality. cosatto.com
SCRUBS UP WELL
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
Holle Infant Goat’s Milk Founded in 1933, Swiss firm Holle is one of Europe’s oldest baby food manufacturers. Its Organic Goat Milk Formulas 1 and 2 contain more than 99% of ingredients from organic agriculture. Suitable for vegetarians they’re super quick to prepare. gb.holle.ch
Every parent will relate to the tiresome scrubbing of bottles to remove milk residue. But this is solved with the Nimble Babies Milk Buster, which cleans bottles using no harsh chemicals, dyes or fragrances. nimblebabies.com
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 119
NUTRITION
BUMP to BABY FOLLOWING TH E R ELE ASE OF H ER BOOK , YOU R PR EGNANC Y N UTRITION GUIDE, WE SPE AK TO N UTRITIONAL TH ER APIST Henriet ta Nor ton ABOUT WHAT TO E AT WH EN YOU ’R E PR EGNANT
What inspired you to write Your Pregnancy Nutrition Guide? I am passionate about increasing awareness of the fact that the right nutrition in pregnancy can optimise your baby’s health in utero and in later life. I also feel many women are confused about what to eat; there is so much conflicting information. The book cuts through the noise, offering sound, practical and evidence-based advice that will empower mums-to-be. Why is good nutrition so important for mums during pregnancy? Research has shown that the quality of nutrition before and during these nine months has lifelong effects, and can improve your baby’s resistance to infection and degenerative disease later in life. What are the fundamentals of a healthy diet during pregnancy? Eating sufficient amounts of good-quality protein (free-range or organic chicken thighs or mixed pulses) and healthy fats (avocados and oily fish) is fundamental. It is easy for mums-to-be to graze on grain-based snacks or meals. For fear of putting on weight, some women also avoid fat completely, but the brain is 70% fat, so it is vital. Why is maintaining a healthy blood-sugar level so important? It will support your energy levels, reduce morning sickness and the risk of gestational diabetes, as well as support your body’s response to hormonal changes. In the first trimester, too much blood sugar instability can slow growth, whereas in the last trimester, it can accelerate growth leading to heavy babies. Which foods should be avoided? Soft blue-veined cheese, rinded soft cheese, raw eggs, raw meat and pate are well-known
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foods to be avoided. Be mindful of liver and some fish, as well as caffeine and alcohol. What vitamins and minerals do pregnant women need to support the growth of their baby? And where can they find them? The focus has traditionally been on folic acid (green leafy vegetables) during pregnancy
but calcium (fish, broccoli, yoghurt and cheese), vitamin B12, iodine (eggs, seafood and seaweeds), vitamin D (eggs, oily fish, dairy), iron (spinach, lentils, eggs and red meat or chicken thighs) and the fatty acid DHA (oily fish, nuts and seeds) are also essential.
What are the most important supplements to take and why? A good Omega 3 oil with at least 400mg of DHA and a pregnancy multinutrient. I Henrietta was inspired to write recommend choosing a formula using the book after her own food-grown nutrients, such as Wild Nutrition’s pregnancy experiences Food-Grown Pregnancy. This means the nutrients are not synthetic chemicals but in a food form, which makes it easier for the mother and baby’s body to use and store. Choline, inositol and glycine are also important for development of the nervous system.
HENRIETTA’S SIMPLE STEPS TO A HEALTHY PREGNANCY
• Eat every three hours. Smaller meals will support your appetite • Eat protein, complex carbohydrate and healthy fats at each meal • Avoid processed foods and foods containing added sugar. This includes fizzy diet drinks • Eat a rainbow of colour at every meal. This will increase nutrient variety and fibre • Eat the stems. They are packed with nutrients, so use them in soups and juices • Slow cook. Low temperatures preserve many essential nutrients found in meat and make it more digestible without destroying the amino acids • Steam vegetables. Boiling causes many nutrients to leach into the water. If you do boil, use as little water as possible and save it for soups or sauces
Your book offers advice on what to eat for the whole cycle. What are the key differences between the three stages? Conception is about building the foundation stores of nutrients. Pregnancy is about increasing the nutrient value of your diet so it supports growth, and early motherhood is about supporting hormonal fluctuations and building in the right nutrients for breastfeeding and restoration. How has your experience of pregnancy and motherhood influenced your perspective? Greatly. I felt very strongly about making the advice practical, which is why there is a section with recipes and meal planners. A healthy pregnancy is not just about eating well, it’s about thinking well, too, so there’s a section on emotional wellbeing. I have written a book I wish I had when I was pregnant.
henriettanorton.com
NUTRITION
Eating magnesium-rich green vegetables can help heartburn
HOW TO FEEL BETTER
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
Top tips to relieve common pregnancy symptoms MORNING SICKNESS
HEARTBURN
CONSTIPATION
• Get plenty of fresh air and excercise throughout the day • You may benefit from taking additional vitamin B6 • Consider taking Swedish bitters to improve digestive enzymes • Eat every two to three hours to maintain blood sugar levels • Include some protein with every meal and snack • Grate fresh ginger into your meals
• Reduce the portion sizes of your meals to help reduce symptoms • Don’t drink too much liquid in one go or with your meals • Try to get plenty of exercise throughout your pregnancy • Make sure that you eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, which are rich in magnesium • Keep your meals light and simple during the morning
• Try soaking one tablespoon of flaxseeds in half a tumbler of water. Leave for half an hour and then drink • Eat plenty of vegetables • Drink at least six to eight cups of water or herbal teas • Regular, gentle exercise, such as yoga, swimming and walking, helps to strengthen peristaltic movement • Consider switching your iron tablets to a more natural version
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 121
Intelligent
EATING
PR EGNANC Y N UTRITION E XPERT Dr Rana Conway OFFER S FOOD FOR TH OUGHT ON HOW TO PUT YOU R BABY ON TH E PATH TO GOOD H E ALTH
esearch has shown that the first 1,000 days of life, from conception to a child’s second birthday, are the most significant for health and development. A mum-to-be who eats a healthy, varied diet can have a positive impact on the lifelong health and eating habits of her child. For the first two trimesters, a healthy, balanced diet of fruit and vegetables, protein-rich foods, dairy foods and unrefined carbohydrates, such as whole grains, will provide all the nutrients your baby needs.
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healthy recipes, covering each trimester and once baby is born, so mums can do the best for their babies while enjoying their food. Dr Rana Conway says: “Everyone seems to have a different view of food during pregnancy. The advice and information is constantly being updated, so it can be a worry wondering if you’re doing what’s right. And, while it’s important to eat a varied, healthy diet, it’s not always easy to do so.” As well as helping women to make good food choices, the book also helps them to
A MUM WHO EATS A HEALTHY DIET CAN HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE LIFELONG HEALTH OF HER CHILD A baby’s first food is the amniotic fluid in the womb. Research shows the foods you eat as a mum-to-be will change its flavour, so your unborn child experiences these tastes. There also appears to be a link between the foods mums eat frequently during pregnancy and the foods that their children grow up to enjoy. Babies remember the flavours that they first tasted in the womb. To help mums-to-be eat as well as possible and avoid the junk during their pregnancy, baby food brand Organix has teamed up with with Dr Rana Conway, a registered nutritionist and a leading expert in pregnancy nutrition, to create the Organix Little Book of Good Food – Bump to Baby. The handy book is packed with simple, practical advice, as well as delicious and
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avoid the many pitfalls of pregnancy eating. For example, mums-to-be often develop a sweet tooth or crave salty snacks, but there is no evidence your body needs what you crave. Dr Rana says, “The problem with eating junk food is that you end up eating less of the good stuff. Plus, when mums-to-be eat a high glycaemic index (GI) diet – and most junk foods are high GI foods – babies are exposed to slightly higher levels of glucose.” Good glucose levels increase the chances of a healthy baby. By eating well during pregnancy you will be doing the best for your baby, so they can grow to love good food even before they’re born. Download a free copy of the Organix Little Book of Good Food – Bump to Baby at organix.com/ bumptobaby
Try Dr Rana’s six junk food swaps to help keep cravings under control while still staying healthy:
CHOCOLATE SWAP WITH: strawberries dipped in a good-quality dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa solids.
ICE CREAM SWAP WITH: sliced banana with natural yogurt, a swirl of honey and some flaked almonds.
CRISPS SWAP WITH: plain or lightly salted popcorn.
CAKE SWAP WITH: a toasted wholemeal bagel with mashed banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
FIZZY DRINKS SWAP WITH: Pure fruit juice mixed with sparkling water.
CHEWY SWEETS SWAP WITH: a small handful of dried apricots or raisins.
NUTRITION Check out Dr Rana’s recipes at babylondon.co.uk
YOUR TRIMESTER TIMELINE FIRST TRIMESTER Eating at least a small breakfast can help relieve the symptoms of morning sickness, and breakfast eaters are more likely to get all the nutrients they need than those who skip it. If you don’t have breakfast, the tendency can be to reach for unhealthy snacks that are high in sugar and fat, and low in essential vitamins and minerals.
SECOND TRIMESTER In the second trimester the morning sickness can ease off. You might find you have more energy, so it’s a good time to think about what you are eating. You have six months to give your bump lots of good nutrients, and what you eat between now and the birth will have a big effect on your child’s future health.
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK
THIRD TRIMESTER It’s not about eating for two. In fact it’s only in the last trimester that you need an extra 200kcal a day as your baby’s weight increases to get ready for birth. You won’t need more than this because your body adapts to help you get the extra nutrients you need. Opt for low GI snacks that will help keep you feeling fuller for longer, like a slice of granary toast with mashed avocado, black pepper and lemon juice, or a handful of nuts.
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 123
FOOD
Explore a world OF FLAVOUR
Annabel Karmel TR AVEL S TH E GLOBE TO FIN D TH E FIN E ST FOOD FOR YOU R LIT TLE ON E S
rom a chicken curry to a taste of the orient, tuck into my delicious child-friendly recipes inspired by some of my favourite foodie destinations. Mums and dads will love them too! Explore a world of flavour with Annabel’s delicious range of chilled toddler meals. Low in salt and a tasty way towards their five a day, find them in the chiller aisle at Sainsbury’s and Tesco.
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FOOD
MEDITERRANEAN VEGETABLE PURÉE SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 5 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS
100g red onion, peeled and chopped 150g courgette, diced 100g yellow pepper, deseeded and diced 175g aubergine, diced 1 clove garlic, crushed 400g can of chopped tomatoes 200ml unsalted vegetable stock 1 tbsp tomato purée 1 tbsp chopped, fresh basil 30g Cheddar cheese, grated METHOD
• Put all the ingredients, except the basil and cheese, into a saucepan. • Cover with a lid, bring to the boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until all the vegetables are soft. • Add the basil then blend everything until smooth. Stir in the cheese until it is all melted together.
LENTIL AND CHICKEN CURRY SUITABLE FROM 9 MONTHS • MAKES 4 TO 6 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS
2 tsp olive oil ½ onion, diced 1 clove garlic, crushed 2 tsp mild curry paste 20g red lentils 400g can of chopped tomatoes 100g chicken stock 75g butternut squash, diced 1 chicken breast, diced ½ tsp mango chutney METHOD
• Heat the oil in a saucepan. • Add the onion and garlic, and fry for 2 minutes. • Add the tomato paste and lentils, then blend in the tomatoes. • Cover with a lid and simmer for 10 minutes. • Add the chicken stock, squash, chicken and mango chutney, and simmer for another 10 minutes until tender.
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 125
CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE STIR FRY SUITABLE FROM 1 YEAR • MAKES 4 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS
2 tbsp olive oil, plus a little extra for frying 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips 1 tbsp honey 1 red onion, sliced 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 red pepper, deseeded and sliced 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and sliced 1 courgette, sliced into batons 250g brown mushrooms, thickly sliced 1 tbsp oyster sauce 1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tsp hoisin sauce METHOD
• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a frying pan or wok. Toss the chicken in the honey and season, then stir fry over a high heat for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate. • Heat the remaining oil in the frying pan or wok, then add the onion and fry for 3 to 4 minutes. • Add the garlic, peppers and courgette and fry for 3 minutes, then add the cooked chicken to the pan. • Heat a little oil in another frying pan and fry the mushrooms for 3 minutes until just cooked. Add these to the other vegetables along with the oyster sauce, soy sauce and hoisin sauce, and season to taste. Toss together and heat through.
CHICKEN, SQUASH AND PEA RISOTTO SUITABLE FROM 1 YEAR • MAKES 4 TO 5 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS
2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 125g risotto rice 450ml chicken stock 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped 100g butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and diced 1 chicken fillet, chopped 50g frozen peas A knob of butter 40g Parmesan, grated METHOD
• Preheat the oven to 170C/325F. Heat a tablespoon of oil in an ovenproof saucepan or casserole dish. • Add the onion and fry for 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, then the rice. Add the stock, thyme and squash. • Bring to the boil, then cover and transfer to the oven for 15 minutes, adding the peas for the last 5 minutes. • While the risotto is cooking, heat the remaining oil in a small frying pan and fry the chicken until just cooked. • Remove the risotto from the oven. Stir in the chicken, butter and Parmesan. Serve immediately.
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The must-have recipe app FOR Your baby and toddler With over 220 delicious recipes, planners and a host of interactive features, Annabel’s Essential Guide to Feeding Your Baby & Toddler is the must-have app to keep your family on track. Download from the app store www.annabelkarmel.com
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bethanblasephotography children’s portraits, family, newborn
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IGN
WEE ONES DAY NURSERY 4 St Ann’s Crescent, Wandsworth SW18 2LR WEE ONES DAY NURSERY 4 St Ann’s208 Crescent, T: +44(0) 870 7729 Wandsworth SW18 2LR E: enquiries@wee-ones.co.uk www.wee-ones.co.uk T: +44(0) 208 870 7729 E: enquiries@wee-ones.co.uk www.wee-ones.co.uk
Montessori Teaching fromspace 2 ½ years Fantastic Outdoor garden Flexible childcare options Good daily balance of play,
• Fantastic Outdoor space learning and socialgarden interaction Good daily balanceactivities of play, for 2 ½ years +, • Exciting afternoon learning social Drama interaction includingand Spanish, and Sports • Exciting afternoon activities for 2 ½ years +, Please speak to our Registrar, including Spanish, Drama and Sports Jodie Nelson, to find out more about the childcare we provide. Please speak to our Registrar, Jodie Nelson, to find out more about the childcare we provide.
IDYLLIC ISLE
If finding the perfect family holiday is proving tricky, then Mr & Mrs Smith may have solved your woes. Revealing the winners of the Smith Hotel Awards, the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji (right) was named its best family hotel. The South Pacific resort, founded by the son of diver Jacques Cousteau, wowed judges with the chance it gives kids to explore the water, its free kids’ club and dawn-to-dusk nannies. An island sanctuary, it mixes indulgence, cultural immersion and eco-friendliness for a unique holiday. mrandmrssmith.com
Travel
NEWS
WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW
FAMILY PARADISE Shangri-La Le Touessrok Resort & Spa, Mauritius, has reopened after six months’ renovation, with even more family friendly hospitality. While lounging on its beach may sound ideal, the resort knows kids love to be busy. Land and watersports and a free kids’ club are available. Evening babysitting lets grownups enjoy the nightlife. shangri-la.com
Our favourite moisturiser is now in a handy travel mini pot. Use for baby’s cradle cap or eczema, or as a lip balm! Kokoso Baby Organic Coconut Oil from £5.49, kokoso.co.uk
NEW RESEARCH FROM TRAVEL WATCHDOG HOLIDAYTRAVELWATCH HAS REVEALED THAT 2.7 MILLION PARENTS SUFFER AIRPORT RAGE, WITH THEIR BIGGEST STRESSES BEING CHECK-IN QUEUES AND BEING SEATED SEPARATELY FROM THEIR CHILDREN ON THE FLIGHT.
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ADVERTORIAL
The kids COME TOO WANT A H OLIDAY TH E WH OLE FAMILY WILL LOVE? Powder Byrne’s SUMMER R E SORTS WILL DELIGHT ADU LTS AN D CHILDR EN ALIKE
Hotel Hermitage, Elba
options sive childcare Offering exclu b clu with its kids’
hen we’re in winter’s chilly grip, there’s always one thing that’s sure to lift the spirits: planning the family’s summer escape. Yet finding the perfect place to ensure everyone has a fabulous time can become a challenge, especially if you have little ones to consider. You need to strike the balance between spending quality time together, activities to entertain the kids and, of course, some serious downtime for mum and dad. Powder Byrne is the expert in providing the best holiday experience for young families. Its selection of hand-picked private hotels in some of Southern Europe’s loveliest spots, including Crete, the Sotogrande, Sintra and Elba, offer sumptuous accommodation, outstanding sports and spa facilities, along
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PICK THE PERFECT RESORT AND START LOOKING FORWARD TO THE SUNSHINE with award-winning restaurants. They’re the perfect places for grown-ups to get busy with some relaxation and, just as importantly, Powder Byrne offers exclusive kids’ programmes. So with its help you can pick the perfect resort and start looking forward to the sunshine, knowing everything will be taken care of by its team of experts. This year, its ever-popular hotels are joined by new resorts at Dolce CampoReal in Turcifal, just north of Lisbon in Portugal, and Asia
Garden in Alicante, Spain. These destinations will have all the first-rate services holidaymakers have come to expect from Powder Byrne – the pre-travel service, attention to detail provided by their English-speaking resort staff and inspiring children's programmes – so parents can be assured a stress-free holiday. If you’re travelling as a family for the first time, you’ll be relieved to find that you won’t have to pack all that baby paraphernalia as
ADVERTORIAL Asia Garden, a tropical oasis above the calm Mediterranean waters of Alicante, Spain
GET BOOKING
Stay at Dolce CampoReal, Portugal, during July 2016 from £839 per adult, sharing a deluxe room for seven nights. Price includes private transfers from Lisbon Airport and full Powder Byrne service in resort. Flights can be quoted for separately. Call 020 8246 5300 or visit powderbyrne.com
Parents will love the fine dining
Dolce CampoReal in Portugal
Children are in the safest hands
Powder Byrne arranges everything, from nappies to high chairs. And, once you’re there, it also takes care of the little details, such as booking restaurants, activities and pampering, so you get stuck straight into having fun. The new Dolce CampoReal resort makes a great introduction to Powder Byrne’s amazing summer programme. A hidden gem, it is nestled in the breathtaking area of Serras do Socorro just 30 minutes north of Lisbon, and 20 minutes from the beaches of the Atlantic coast. Powder Byrne knows this region, having operated nearby at Penha Longa, Sintra, for many years: it’s a firm favourite with families. Dolce CampoReal offers excellent value for families with very young children. Its wide choice of accommodation, from generous-sized double rooms to two-
storey townhouses, means there’s sure to be something to suit your needs, while the exclusive kids’ activities will have your children begging to return next year. There’s a crèche for little ones aged four months to three years, while the Scallywags club caters for four to nine year olds. Both make full use of the extensive outdoor space and kids’ areas, so children can have the time of their lives enjoying expertly crafted activities, such as outdoor games, arts and crafts, swimming and trips to local attractions. While the children are having a whale of a time, parents can explore the resort’s more grown-up offerings. Whether it’s golf, tennis or horse riding, visiting nearby wineries and cultural sites, or just relaxing by the pool, in the spa and, of course, enjoying the fine
dining, mums and dads will be spoilt for choice as to how they spend their well-earned downtime and, even better, the resort team will arrange everything for them. Whichever resort, you can be assured that the kids’ programmes are run by experienced and fully qualified staff, and safety is always a top priority. Older siblings are also catered for, with sports and adventure-focused programmes availiable. Children under two travel free and the pb crèche is complimentary in select resorts outside of school holidays. And with the teams’ knowledge of their destinations, families can explore what lies beyond the resort, if they wish. With so much on offer, all you have to do is pick the perfect spot and start looking forward to having some fun in the sun.
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RUNNING HEAD
Follow the
SUN
STAVE OFF TH E WINTER BLU E S AN D ENJOY SOM E QUALIT Y FAMILY TIM E AT ON E OF TH E SE HOT DE STINATION S inter may be here but, instead of digging out the de-icer and pulling on some trusty thermals, why not book a winter sun break to keep your vitamin D levels topped up? Travel consultant Charlotte Heyman, of boutique hotel experts Smith & Family, gives us the inside track on her top three family-friendly retreats. smithandfamily.co.uk
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The gorgeous thatched huts at the tranquil Constance Le Prince Maurice, Mauritius
CONSTANCE LE PRINCE MAURICE MAURITIUS
Located on the tranquil eastern shore of Mauritius and nestled in sugarcane plantations is Constance Le Prince Maurice, a luxury resort with beachfront and lakeside suites for families. Thatched-roof villas propped on stilts sit by the lake, while two-tiered suites boast spectacular views over the Indian Ocean’s aquamarine waters. The resort is completely set up for babies and toddlers. There is an abundance of all the vital paraphernalia, as well as extras such as soft toys, picture books and swimming aids, which means you can travel much lighter. For siblings aged four and above, there is Les Petits Princes (the resort’s free kids’ club), which has everything a child could wish for – swings, slides, a tree house, trampolines and more. For the ultimate in relaxation, indulge in a session at the Sisley Spa. It has six treatment rooms and one set aside for couples. Request one of the resort’s qualified babysitters if you want to steal an evening at the hotel’s Lotus Lounge Bar. There are bucket seats to sink in to and cocktails to sip while you admire the spectacular ocean views. Our top tip: hail the head sommelier for a tour of the wine cellar. Doubles from £371 per night, including breakfast. Under-twos stay free.
RUNNING HEAD
ROUND HILL HOTEL AND VILLAS JAMAICA
Se within 40 hectares of tropical paradise just steps from the shore, Round Hill Hotel and Villas is the ultimate holiday spot. The family-friendly, whitewashed cottages were built in the 1950s and retain a sense of the era’s high Hollywood glamour – many rich and famous patrons have passed the night in them. All 36 rooms (excluding the Junior Suite) are located in Pineapple House and accommodate two adults and one or two children. Ocean-facing rooms, designed by Ralph Lauren, have one or two four-poster beds (interconnecting rooms are available) and suites have classic black-and-white tiled floors, white clapboard shutters and retro furnishings. Round Hill has a fabulous free kids’ hangout; the Pineapple Club keeps little ones entertained, from 9am to 5pm daily, with games of hide and seek, craft sessions (including learning how to basket weave) and tours of the garden. Parents will love the spa’s relaxing and revitalising treatments, from a Jamaican coffee-bean scrub to a pineapple body buff. Martin Maginley is the award-winning resident chef and the genius behind the Grill’s contemporary Jamaican-inspired dishes. All ingredients are locally sourced, and many of the herbs and vegetables come from the on-site kitchen garden. Doubles from £218 per night. Cots from £49 a night.
Round Hill’s suites have beautiful clapboard shutters and a retro 1950s feel
JNANE
TAMSNA MOROCCO A home-from-home retreat on the leafy outskirts of bustling Marrakech, Jnane Tamsna is an elegant child-friendly riad with 24 rooms, including interconnecting suites for families. Set in nine hectares of beautifully manicured gardens, this palm-dotted paradise has a tennis court, spa treatment rooms and five pools (all open to little Smiths). Interiors are traditional in style and richly hued, lit by antique Moroccan lanterns and strung with intricately woven handmade wall hangings. There isn’t a kids’ club at Jnane Tamsna but childcare services include nannies, babysitting and baby-listening, and there’s an incredible range of family activities on offer, with painting, calligraphy, cookery and tours of the kitchen garden. Besides splashing about
in five swimming pools and exploring the vast gardens, kids can ride camels and take part in special tot-tailored cookery classes. The Mediterranean-Moroccan meals at Jnane Tamsna are made using fresh herbs and vegetables picked straight from the grounds. The warming tagines and refreshing salads don’t disappoint and the children’s menu has picks to please the fussiest eaters. Doubles from £130. bl
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Cornwall is the ideal retreat
The spectaular backdrop
ª Postcard from…
CORNWALL
Cour tney Robinson AN D H ER PARTN ER H E AD WE ST TO TH E SE ASIDE BEFOR E BABY AR RIVE S
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Courtney and her partner Gareth enjoyed a relaxing walk on the beautiful beach
time by the huge windows showing off the sweeping morning views. The menu was simple and delicious. Breakfast was followed by a private pregnancy yoga class with Julia, a local teacher, who was informative, gentle and calming. After a quick stop for a cup of tea, I met with Ayurvedic beauty and health consultant Anna, ahead of an afternoon of magnificent pregnancy-tailored Pai treatments. The body scrub was the highlight: hugging a pregnancy pillow, perched neatly on the treatment bed, it felt as though every last little niggle or stress was scrubbed away. It was an absolute relief to my legs, feet and the rest of my skin, which has been somewhat neglected since the focus moved to stretch-mark prevention. A short rest (from resting) ensued before meeting Anna again to experience the rest of The Scarlet’s Pregnancy Journey. I was taken through a relaxation meditation before a full-body massage, a ‘bump wrap’, mini Pai facial and luxurious scalp massage. The experience felt akin to floating on a warm cloud. A tasty, light dinner on Sunday evening and a relaxed morning on Monday topped off our divine weekend. The Scarlet, powerfully therapeutic and brimming with relaxing charm, was the ideal place for our cosy babymoon. scarlethotel.co.uk
Hearty and simple brea kfasts were accompani ed by sweepi ng views
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
here’s something delightful about enjoying the comforts of home in an unfamiliar place, and The Scarlet feels just like a tranquil home. It was exactly what we needed – the perfect weekend escape from London before our lives change forever. The Scarlet immerses you in the local spirit of warmth and coastal calm. Every touch, from its curated spaces and rooms to its locally sourced products, pairs luxury with warmth and the human touch. The hotel is set in the Cornwall cliffside at Porth Mawgan, and the relaxing coastline can be seen from almost everywhere in The Scarlet. After a relaxed check-in on Saturday afternoon, Gareth and I enjoyed a walk through the gardens, down the private access path and along the beach. The air was fresh, weather delightfully dry and the beach beautiful. The remainder of the afternoon was spent enjoying the perfectly catered pool and spa facilities, before a three-course dinner by candlelight in the restaurant. The food was nothing short of exceptional – seamlessly catering for dietary requirements, and offering a tasty menu filled with locally sourced produce. Dessert was the hardest choice to make with so many gorgeous options. Sunday was a day of treats, starting with breakfast in the restaurant, this
The stunning Cornish coast
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…a welcoming family-friendly retreat and a very stylish one at that.
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JOIN US ON OUR PLAYGROUND SELF-CATERING FAMILY HOLIDAYS ON THE CORNISH COAST
RUNNING HEAD
e the Cornish Little ones will lov surf ge coastline’s ntle
Where to stay? The Rosevine, South Cornwall Billed as ‘The Big House By the Sea’, The Rosevine is a truly family-friendly boutique hotel that’s stylish and right by the beach. With its relaxed atmosphere, children will feel at home, while parents can pack light as it has everything from changing mats and travel cots to potties and sterilisers. There’s a fabulous children’s menu and if the weather turns, there’s an indoor pool and playroom. rosevine.co.uk Cove Cottage, Sennen Cove, West Cornwall With a great spot by Sennen Cove, this three-bedroom Cornish cottage is as enchanting as it is practical. An old fisherman’s house, it has been restored to offer the ultimate comfort and charm and is a short walk to the harbour, which has all you need. Voted one of Britain’s top beaches by Conde Nast Traveller, Sennen’s cove is long and sandy with turquoise waters. beachretreats.co.uk
Cove Cottage, Sennen Cove
Where to eat? The Green Room, Retallack Resort, North Cornwall Executive chef James Nathan brings the finest Cornish ingredients to your plate at this fabulous restaurant near Padstow. There’s no doubting the MasterChef winner’s passion for food: the menu features edible flowers grown in his own garden and foraged in local fields, as well as the finest seafood handpicked from Newlyn’s fishing fleets. Have a lazy family breakfast or long lunch, or for something a bit special, enjoy a romantic dinner with the seven-course taster menu. retallackresort.co.uk
Best of
CORNWALL
With its pretty coastline and foodie hotspots, Cornwall has been voted the top UK holiday spot seven times. Here’s the best places to go Where to explore?
Where to surf?
Camel Trail, North Cornwall A beautiful way to take in some of Cornwall’s views. A picturesque bike ride from Padstow to Wenford Bridge, via Wadebridge and Bodmin.
Perranporth, North Cornwall The ideal spot for some family surfing, this beautiful stretch of golden sand has an exceptional ‘swell window’, for plentiful, quality waves. RNLI Lifeguards patrol here more than any other beach and it is very near to town, so everything is accessible. Head to Piran Surf to rent or buy gear or grab a lesson. Put the little ones in an IGLU wetsuit to make sure they stay warm and comfy. Designed for kids for year-round use, they are sealed so they don’t leak. piransurf.co.uk, igluwetsuits.com
The Rosevine, near Portscatho
Eden Project, South Cornwall For something more cultured, the Eden Project is a garden housed in tropical biomes in a giant crater. edenproject.com The Point, North Cornwall Situated just outside of Polzeath, head for a bite to eat, a splash in the pool or practise your golf skills. thepointatpolzeath.co.uk
Perranporth beach has plentiful waves and golden sands – perfect for kids
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LOCATED LESS THAN A MILE from the stunning North Cornish coast and the buzzing surfing haven of Polzeath. The Point at Polzeath is an ideal base from which to explore Cornwall. With an 18 hole golf course, North Cornwall’s premier Health Club, featuring an indoor pool, Spinning® room, fully equipped modern gym, dedicated brand new studio, tennis courts, restaurant with top reviews, accommodation ranging from one bedroom apartments to 5 bedroom houses together with 7 NEW contemporary apartments. The Point at Polzeath has become a premier destination for both short breaks and main holidays.
www.thepointatpolzeath.co.uk info@thepointatpolzeath.co.uk • 01208 863 000 The Point at Polzeath, Cornwall PL27 6QT
EDUCATION
Education
PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP
Researching schools
NEWS
EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM
MATCH AND LEARN
If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector. The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.
ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW!
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700. The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.
The new Match and Learn the Professions app is sure to delight little ones who love to talk about what they want to be when they grow up. The puzzle game for two to six year olds lets your child observe, remember and match 10 characters, including Mr Bigbear, Miss Pirouette and Dr Feelgood, with their profession. Created by education experts and parents who understand the importance of creative play, the game is beautifully crafted with more than 1,000 hand-drawn animations and filled with silly songs and poems to entertain and educate. petitademas.com
BOOK WEEK BONANZA AT ST BENEDICT’S! Pupils at St Benedict’s Junior School in Ealing showed off their own illustrated poetry anthologies and favourite poems recently as part of a special Book Week dressing-up assembly. All kinds of creative writing was on display, with poems about the dancing leaves of autumn, sinister verses from Roald Dahl, sonnets from Shakespeare and even the Dinosaur Rap. The children had previously met the zany and insightful poet James Carter, who had inspired them with performance of his humorous poetry. stbenedicts.org.uk
Little ones will love matching fun characters with their professions
PLAYING POLITICS A new parliamentary report has called for play to be at the centre of a ‘whole child’ approach to health and wellbeing. While there is consensus about the importance of physical activity for children, play has lost its political momentum. Now, the report from the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on a fit and healthy childhood, sponsored by LeapFrog, is calling for a fresh approach. Contributor Helen Clark says: “The APPG sees play as central to a child’s learning and healthy development. Research has shown that integrating time for play into the school day is essential to develop creativity, promote emotional intelligence and improve academic achievement.” royalpa.co.uk
WITH SCHOOL FEES AVERAGING £15,675 A YEAR AND RISING, A FIFTH OF PARENTS RELY ON – OR PLAN TO RELY ON – GRANDPARENTS TO HELP PAY, ACCORDING TO RESEARCH FROM INVESTEC WEALTH AND INVESTMENT
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 139
For For boys boys aged aged 33 to to 88 years years old old For boys aged 3 to 8 years old For boys aged 3Street to 8 years old 27 Edge 27 Edge Street Kensington, London 7PN 27 Edge StreetW8 Kensington, London W8 7PN Tel: 020London 7727 9090 Kensington, W8 7PN Tel: 7727 9090 27020 Edge Street Fax: 020 7727 9090 9988 Tel: 020 7727 Fax: 020London 7727 9988 Kensington, W8 7PN Fax: 020 7727 9988 Tel: 020 7727 9090 Fax: 020 7727 9988
Independent Day School for Girls from 4 -18 years Queen’s Gate School offers girls a friendly, supportive environment, where individuality is nurtured, academic standards are high and where a broad based curriculum ensures a well rounded education. For a prospectus, or to make a private visit to the School, please contact the Registrar Miss Janette Micklewright, on 020 7594 4982 or email, registrar@queensgate.org.uk Queen’s Gate Junior School 125-126 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5LJ
Queen’s Gate Senior School 131-133 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5LE
www.queensgate.org.uk
St Benedict’s, Ealing Independent Catholic Day School Teaching a way of living Co-education from 3 years through to 18
NURSERY OPEN MORNINGS 21 January, 23 February, 10 March
One of the ten best value private schools in the UK The Telegraph (August 2015) SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES IN THE SENIOR SCHOOL To book a place at an Open Event or for more information please contact:
T: 020 8862 2254 E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk We respect the dignity of all and welcome children of other faiths.
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RUNNING HEAD
BORN
READY
EDUCATIONAL CON SU LTANT Gabbitas FILL S US IN ON TH E N EW PH EN OM EN ON OF PL AN NING YOU R CHILD’S SCH OOLING FROM TH E WOM B he last thing that pops into your mind when you get that positive pregnancy test is: what nursery or school should I send my child to? But competition for schools – and increasingly for nurseries, too – has become so fierce in London that parents are resorting to planning their child’s school career before they have
T
even been born. If it seems crazy, it’s not. The early bird catches the worm. Catherine Kelsey, who leads the schools placement team at Gabbitas Education, says, “Competition for nursery places is tight. The momentum seems to be for children to join the more structured environment of a nursery school rather than go to a church hall and do
some painting, singing and messing about in the sandpit, as in the past.” It’s never too soon to start your child on the right trajectory, says Kelsey. “Increasingly ambitious parents like to put their child into a ‘good’ nursery school because this will ensure a good pre-prep school, followed by a favoured prep school
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 141
EDUCATION
and an excellent school at 13-plus, followed by acceptance into a demanding university.” This creates a heated market for places. “The more competitive the school environment becomes, which is especially pertinent in London, it has a knock-on effect all the way down to nursery schools. Historically, some parents would have preferred to keep their children at home until the start of school age at four, with the occasional visit to a playgroup or nursery for a few afternoons. But now the pressure to gain a good place for your child means that parents feel obliged to join the nursery school race.” This domino effect, along with the large number of international parents in London, has resulted in many more applicants to nursery schools. And the pick of the bunch are seriously oversubscribed, often sending parents into a flat spin. “The more prestigious nurseries are able to pick and choose their intake as demand is so high,” says Kelsey. “This causes parents to become very anxious even before their children are born and they are ready with registration forms completed immediately after the birth, not just for nurseries, but pre-preps and prep schools, too.” bl
Competition for school places is so fierce parents are starting the search before birth
gabbitas.co.uk
CASE STUDY
M
ichael and Jonna Scherb are organised about everything they do – even deciding their unborn child’s future. Michael, who is the founder of a private equity firm, wanted to avoid the distraction of school searches he had seen friends go through. Jonna, who runs a luxury bespoke jewellery design business, didn’t want the pressure – and possible disappointment – of trying to secure a good school place. The couple decided they needed support in navigating the choices. “I’m half-Austrian and half-Singaporean. I was born in Taiwan and grew up in the
US and Germany, while Jonna is from Finland,” says Michael. “So, with little understanding of the British private school system and busy lives, we wanted to find a company with the best experience, reputation and quality service that we could really trust.” They interviewed three education consultants when Jonna was seven months pregnant and chose Gabbitas after meeting the head of the schools placement team, Catherine Kelsey. “I have a creative background while Michael is more business focused, so it
was a challenge to find the right solutions to match all our values,” says Jonna. “But Catherine did it. She was very pro-active, got to know us very quickly and really drove the process forward with good planning and by taking the
Michael an d 142 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
Jonna with th
eir baby
initiative, so we were always on the front foot.” Kelsey, who has three children who attended prestigious independent boarding schools and 20 years’ experience in the industry, says: “Getting a place at the best schools for your child is often stressful. My advice is to start as early as possible. This was the first time I had helped a child who wasn’t even born, but I’m sure this will become more usual as there is increasing competition – especially from abroad – to secure limited places in the most prestigious British schools.”
PHOTOGRAPHY: RACHEL PICKTHALL, SHUTTERSTOCK
One couple explains why hiring a specialist company was the right choice
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144 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
OUT AND ABOUT
mini
AGENDA
L i a n n e K o l i r i n R O U N D S U P T H E C A P I TA L’ S B E S T E V E N T S
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Chinese New Year Celebrations
PHOTOGRAPHY: DAVID @ FLICKR, CHRIS HILL
VARIOUS VENUES AROUND SHAFTESBURY AVENUE, TRAFALGAR SQUARE AND CHINATOWN chinatownlondon.org The celebrations will see more than 500,000 people descend on London’s West End to celebrate the Year of the Monkey in a blaze of colour. The festivities, the largest outside Asia, are a feast of Chinese culture, including a gravity-defying lion dance. Admission: free. Sunday 14 February, check website for times.
Festive Afternoon Tea
Imagine Festival
THE LANDMARK LONDON HOTEL
SOUTHBANK CENTRE
222 Marylebone Road, London NW1 6JQ 020 7631 8000
Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 020 7960 4200
southbankcentre.co.uk
landmarklondon.co.uk Christmas may be over, but there’s still time for a festive tea. Kids will adore the thrones, gingerbread grotto and life-size gingerbread Santa’s sleigh. Admission: prices start from £45 per person. Reservations between 3pm and 5.15pm, Monday to Friday, and between 1.30pm and 5.15pm at weekends until Sunday 3 January.
Little Feet: Celtic Artist Workshop THE BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG 020 7323 8299
britishmuseum.org Children take over the Southbank Centre in February, as the Imagine Children’s Festival returns with a range of theatre, music, dance, film and comedy alongside readings by some of the UK’s top authors. Admission: some events are free, prices vary for others. Wednesday 10 February to Sunday 21 February. Various performance dates and times. See website for details.
An arty workshop for children aged five and under to accompany the British Museum’s latest exhibition, Celts: Art and Identity. Discover how objects were used for feasting, battles and dressing to impress. Kids can also make their own Celtic masterpiece. Admission: free. Drop in from 10.30am to noon, Monday 18 January.
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 145
Mini VAULT
Orchid Festival
Lumiere London
Lumiere London
Mini VAULT
New Year’s Day Parade
Peppa Pig’s Surprise
SITES AROUND KING’S CROSS AND THE WEST END visitlondon.com/lumiere
THE VAULTS Leake Street, Waterloo, London SE1 7NN 020 7401 9603 vaultfestival.com
PICCADILLY TO PARLIAMENT SQUARE lnydp.com
DUKE OF YORK’S THEATRE St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4BG 0844 871 7623 peppapiglive.com
The perfect antidote to the post-Christmas blues, London will be aglow for the biggest light festival the capital has ever seen. International artists will illuminate two areas – King’s Cross and the West End – with 3D projections. Admission: free. Thursday 14 January to Sunday 17 January.
Magical Lantern Festival CHISWICK HOUSE AND GARDENS London W4 2RP 020 7101 5405 magicallantern.uk To coincide with Chinese New Year, the world-famous Magical Lantern Festival comes to Chiswick House and Gardens for the first time. Take the family to marvel at the stunning hand-sculpted lanterns illuminating Chiswick House. Admission: adults £18, children £12 and under-fours go free. From 5pm to 10.30pm, Wednesday 3 February to Sunday 6 March.
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Big Fish Little Fish is staging a launch party for the kids’ version of the VAULT festival so expect glitter balls, storytelling, interactive displays and more. Admission: the launch party is £15 for adults, £12 for children and non-walkers go free. For other events see website. The launch party is noon to 3pm on Saturday 6 February. See website for other events.
Cope’s Family Songbook ROYAL ALBERT HALL Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP 020 7589 8212 royalalberthall.com Nick Cope creates interactive concerts for the whole family, singing about things children are really interested in: monkeys, bears, socks and mud. Sit back and relax, or get up and dance. Admission: Adults and children, £7.75. 11am and 2pm on Wednesday 17 February.
The parade is a spectacular event with up to 10,000 performers from across continents and hundreds of thousands of spectators. The route takes in Piccadilly Circus, Pall Mall and Trafalgar Square. Admission: free. Noon to 3.30pm on Friday 1 January.
Nursery Rhyme Time: Four Centuries in One Week THE GEFFRYE MUSEUM OF THE HOME 136 Kingsland Road, London E2 8EA 020 7739 9893 geffrye-museum.org.uk Explore homes from different centuries with fun craft and storytelling sessions tailored to budding artists aged two to five. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis 30 minutes before each activity. Admission: free. Tuesday 16 February to Friday 19 February, 10.30am to 11.30am, and noon to 1pm.
Peppa is playing with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have a surprise for her and George. Enjoy fun, games and surprises in this live show. Admission: £13.50 to £35 plus £3 transaction fee. Friday 18 December to Sunday 17 January. Performance times vary, see website for details.
Orchid Festival KEW GARDENS Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB 020 8332 5655 kew.org Melt away the winter blues inside the tropical paradise of the Royal Botanic Gardens with this beautiful celebration of Brazil’s magnificent plant life. There are activities for kids, as well as the Climbers and Creepers playzone. Admission: children under-16 go free, adults £15. Saturday 6 February to Sunday 6 March.
OUT AND ABOUT
Shiny
The Garden at the Science Museum
The Alligator’s Storytime
Shiny
The Baby Show
HALF MOON THEATRE 43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND 020 7709 8900 halfmoon.org.uk
EXCEL LONDON Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL 0871 231 0844 thebabyshow.co.uk
Enter a long-forgotten room where two people find friendship, joy, and treasures that turn from ordinary to extraordinary. Very young children and their grown-ups are invited to watch and play. Booking is recommended. Admission: £6. Performances at 11am and 2pm on Saturday 20 February.
The fantastic parenting event for bump, baby and beyond returns to London’s ExCel, with more than 200 exhibitors showcasing the best baby and infant essentials. Admission: £20, under-12s free. Open from 9.30am to 5.30pm, Friday 19 February to Sunday 21 February.
The Alligator’s Storytime The Garden at the Science Museum THE ALLIGATOR’S MOUTH 2a Church Court, Richmond TW9 1JL 020 8948 6775 thealligatorsmouth.co.uk
A regular story session at a lovely children’s bookshop, The Alligator’s Mouth. Each session is themed and features a selection of picture books, plus a poem and/or song. Suitable for pre-schoolers. Admission: free. Mondays at 10.30am and 3.45pm, and 3.45pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
THE SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition Road, London SW7 2DD 0870 870 4868 sciencemuseum.org.uk An interactive space has been created in the basement especially for very young children. While playing with construction, water, light and sound, little ones can find out about floating and sinking, shadows and reflections. Admission: free. Open daily, 10am to 6pm.
The Great Spitalfields Pancake Race DRAY WALK Brick Lane, London E1 6QL alternativearts.co.uk In celebration of Shrove Tuesday, pancake enthusiasts should head to the East End for the Great Spitalfields Pancake Race. Teams of four should come in fancy dress with frying pans – pancakes are provided. Admission: free for spectators and participants, although teams asked to fundraise for the charity. Tuesday 9 February at 12.30pm.
The Little Draw THE WALLACE COLLECTION Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN 020 7563 9527 wallacecollection.org Drop-in drawing workshops for all ages at The Wallace Collection, where families can step back in time into glittering rooms filled with musical clocks, secret stories and the tantalising treasures of tragic queens and heroic knights. Admission: free. From 1.30pm to 4.30pm on the first Sunday of every month.
The Palace Explorers FULHAM PALACE Bishop’s Avenue, London SW6 6EA 020 7736 3233 fulhampalace.org Explore Fulham Palace and its grounds with your little one in this fab and friendly weekly group for toddlers and their parents or carers. It’s always best to book in advance. The entrance fee includes a drink and healthy snack. Admission: £3. Monday from 10.30am to 11.30am.
The Paper Dolls for Toddlers POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com This is a gentle story about childhood, memory and the imagination with puppetry and music. Suitable for children aged one to two. Admission: £12. Selected dates from Thursday 28 January to Wednesday 9 March, see website.
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 147
Ready, set... Goodies With busy little explorers, make sure you’re always ready to go with Goodies.
Our snacks contain nothing unnecessary and keep them happy on the go, full between meals and give them lots of new tastes and textures to explore. To explore our range and download our Little Book of Good Food, visit www.organix.com Always organic Nothing unnecessary Setting standards
OUT AND ABOUT
Wiggly Jigglers
Up Club at the Unicorn
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STRATFORD CIRCUS ARTS CENTRE Theatre Square, London E15 1BX 0844 357 2625 stratford-circus.com
UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com
Toddler Time at The Cutty Sark CUTTY SARK King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 9HT 020 8312 6608 rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Bring your little sailors on board the world’s sole-surviving tea clipper for group story and song time followed by themed play for under-fours. Admission: included with ticket. Under-fives go free, adults, £18.50. Wednesdays during term time, 10am to 11.30am.
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Little ones are always welcome at the play club, which takes place on selected weekends. Expect a host of fun activities, from portrait painting and potato printing to giant Jenga! Admission: free. From noon to 2pm on Saturday 16 January, 30 January, 6 February, 20 February and 27 February.
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RICH MIX 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6LA 020 7613 7498 richmix.org.uk A fast-paced session for toddlers, led by movement practitioner Jasmine Pasch. At these sessions your youngsters will get the space, freedom and time to move in ways that support their development. Admission: £4 per child. Sessions from 1pm to 3pm on Monday 25 January, February 8 and 22 February.
£20
GIFTS AVAILABLE WHILE STOCKS LAST
A weekly drop-in club that focuses on a new skill each term. In the new year, it’ll be acrobatics so little ones can get physical and creative. Admission: £7 or £50 a term. From 9.30am to 10.30am, Saturdays from 9 January to 19 March (no class 13 February).
Little London guides you through the next stage of the adventure that is childhood – from nursery, first trips away from home and the most exciting activities and events in and around the capital, to the hottest holidays, coolest kidswear and interiors ideas. PLUS expert advice on your child’s health and education.
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A SELEC TION OF
LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E
Groups & Classes
ACTIVITIES
150 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
NURTURING A LIFETIME OF MUSIC Classes across London Award-winning pre-school music classes for children aged three months to four years. Monkey Music has 20 years’ experience of providing entertaining classes that captivate both children and adults with a combination of songs, activities, percussion instruments and props. Monkey Music’s progressive curriculum encourages children to grow in confidence, improve listening, communication and concentration skills, and make new friends. Classes are offered in Putney, Barnes, Parsons Green, Fulham, Chelsea, Gloucester Road, Belgravia, Kensington, Notting Hill, Primrose Hill and Hampstead. Check the website for timetable and book your complimentary session. monkeymusic.co.uk
FOR LITTLE LEARNERS Starting from babies to 11 years NEW: Unique Baby and Little Discovery Classes for six months to 24 months old. Magical classes allow babies to explore their senses with new topics each week, such as bees, frogs and stars, combined with music, colours, shapes. Little Maths, Rhythm and Shapes and Little House of Science are two fantastic after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps in the world of numbers and science that much easier. Little Maths workshops, for two to four year olds, build your child’s confidence with numbers. Meanwhile, The Little House of Science workshop, for three to 11 years old, introduces new scientific concepts through discussions and experiments. 0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com
Club Petit Pierrot AS SOON AS YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN PLAY FOOTBALL
FUN FRENCH LESSONS FOR CHILDREN
Classes across London The very best football coaching for toddlers and children aged from 18 months to 10 years, Kiddikicks is unique because it involves the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Join 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 player’s free kit (registration fees apply). Quote BABY LONDON to receive a 5% discount. 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, has a unique approach and offers innovative, stimulating immersion programmes for children from eight months old. Led by a team of passionate and qualified native teachers, children flourish and learn French effortlessly while having fun with a wide range of activities, including contemporary songs from its educational CD. Language experts agree that learning a second language early in life enhances overall cognitive skills and improves brain development. 020 7385 5565 admincpp@btconnect.com clubpetitpierrot.co.uk
COMPETITIONS
CHANCE TO WIN We bring you exclusive competitions selected for Baby London readers
WORTH OVER
£1,700
The Verity Changing Bag, £150, iCandy. Jacky Hi Boots, £239, United Nude. Jack Shoes, £139, Vevian London.
WIN a Very Clever Car Seat! A new concept in child safety, the Multimac car seat is bursting with innovation. The only car seat that allows you to have three or four children seated in a row, from newborn to 12 years old, means there’s no need to get a bigger car when another child comes along! The Multimac fits solidly into most cars, secured to the highest safety standards using tether straps, and can be installed and removed in minutes. Designed and manufactured in Britain and tested in Sweden, the home of child car safety, it can be instantly adjusted to different-sized children and adults, making it perfect for car sharing. The lucky winner can choose from a three- or four-seater Multimac worth £1,499 in plush black leather, plus a Minimac (£269) which takes babies from newborn to approximately 18 months. To find out what fits your car and where your nearest installer is, see the website for more details: multimac.co.uk
WRAP UP WITH METANIUM Metanium is giving away three organic quilted reversible blankets (RRP £50) from the Charpoy Handcrafted Children’s Bedding company plus a sample of Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion. In winter, there’s nothing like a cosy cot quilt for extra comfort, particularly if your little one is feeling under the weather. Remember that having a cold can be a trigger for nappy rash. Double-action Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash. metanium.co.uk
ENTER ONLINE AT BABYLONDON.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS 152 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
STOCKIST INFORMATION A Day In A Life Accessorize Anne-Claire Petit Arne Jacobsen Billieblush Bonpoint Carrément Beau Chloé Dune iCandy Jacadi Jelly Cat Jem + Bea Kenzo Le Mu Little Marc Jacobs Mainio Clothing Marie-Chantal Monsoon Moschino Mothercare My Little Day Next Nine in the Mirror No Added Sugar Patachou Ralph Lauren Shop Pyramid Simonetta Slacks & Co Soft Gallery Step2wo The Butter Flying Tobias and the Bear Topshop Uniqlo United Nude Verity Jones London Vevian Whistles
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Leading retailer of eco, ethical & premium baby brands.
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baby london Leap into spring with our shopping pages • The most eggsellent recipes from food guru Annabel Karmel • Our guide to contraception after pregnancy and how to approach it • Bringing up a bilingual baby • What’s happening to my body? We uncover pregnancy taboos • and much, much more!
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Get cracking with Annabel Karmel’s delicious egg recipes
SHOPPING
London
Boutiques A FIN E SELEC TION OF HAN D -PICKED LON DON BOUTIQU E S. H ER E’S OU R SHOPPING GUIDE
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NIDDLE NODDLE
Niddle Noddle began as an online shop, stocking unique labels that were hard to find in the UK. Now, its stock is just as exclusive but in a real space in London’s Crouch End. You’ll find an abundance of original handmade goodies including toys, home accessories and knitwear both modern and vintage. It’s a space both parents and children will love – while you’re browsing, little ones can play with the selection of toys and on the boutique’s tubular yellow slide. 5 TOPSFIELD PARADE, LONDON N8 8PR niddlenoddle.com
MASIEL BEBE
The founder of Masiel Bebe thought London needed an injection of Spanish panache and so this boutique is dedicated to offering the finest Spanish clothing for babies and children in every style. With classics from Pili Carrera to Agata Ruiz de la Prada’s chic, cheeky sets, Masiel Bebe ensures all your needs are met, in the highest-quality materials. The team thinks there’s nothing more wonderful than seeing your baby look gorgeous in stunning clothes – we agree. 56 ABBEY GARDENS, LONDON NW8 9AT masielbebe.co.uk
MERINO KIDS
Merino Kids’ showroom, located on Northcote Road, is a breath of fresh air, bedecked with all things cute and cosy. The team at Merino Kids knows how important sleep is to little ones, so check out its award-winning Go Go Bag and Cocooi swaddle baby wraps. From the fabric to the finish, its collection is internationally renowned for its quality. If you’re looking for silky soft, light sleepwear that’s kind to delicate skin, Merino Kids is the perfect solution. 151 NORTHCOTE ROAD, BATTERSEA, LONDON SW11 6QB merinokids.co.uk
JOUJOU AND LUCY
Named after their son and his imaginary friend Lucy, the founders of JouJou and Lucy are inspired by all things different. That’s why it sources exclusive baby brands and new, enthusiastic designers who echo its quest for originality. A favourite of celebrity mummies, JouJou and Lucy’s different collections all celebrate European individuality with bespoke French knitwear, eccentric Italian dresses and Dutch rustic booties. 32 CLIFTON ROAD, LONDON W9 1ST joujouandlucy.com
MAISON AUGUSTE
Maison Auguste presents a curated range of eclectic designer nursery brands, stylish toys and exclusive creations by up-and-coming talent. The elegant boutique in Hampstead offers a range of nursery accessories, from quilts in flashy colours to retro sleeping bags, as well as gorgeous sought-after clothing from exclusive French brands, such as Georges et Rosalie, Barnabe Aime Le Café and Mon Petit Chausson, who’s adorable booties are hard to source in the UK. 6 HEATH STREET, LONDON NW3 6TE maisonauguste.co.uk
BLUE ALMONDS
Since the Duchess of Cambridge was spotted browsing the beautifully adorned shelves of Blue Almonds back in 2013, the Chelsea boutique has gained a reputation as the one-stop-shop for all things luxury – and quite rightly. As well as fashion, the boutique specialises in bespoke children’s interiors and gorgeous accessories from a good mix of international labels including Spanish brand Paz Rodriguez, Olli Ella chairs and Italian cashmere from Masserano. 164 WALTON STREET, LONDON SW3 2JL bluealmonds.co.uk
156 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
SHOPPING
NECK AND NECK
Everything at Neck and Neck is perfection, down to the smallest detail, and their supersmart, classic-style collection has already been given the nod of approval by the royal baby trendsetter himself, with Prince George wearing a pair of Neck and Neck’s red-and-white striped overalls to the Polo in June. Make like the Royals, and head to this lovely boutique in Chelsea to find timeless pieces that will give your little one’s wardrobe a hint of European chic. 73 DUKE OF YORK SQUARE, LONDON SW3 4LY | 18B HILL RISE, RICHMOND TW10 6UA neckandneck.com
JACADI
French baby and childrenswear label Jacadi was created in 1976 and has since established itself as an international brand with stores worldwide. Popular with celebrities, Jacadi believes in passing down heritage and timeless fashion in the French tradition to younger generations. As a result, its baby clothes are elegant and eclectically beautiful; stylish, but also a celebration of youth. Its latest addition has just opened its doors in Hampstead – happy shopping! 39 KING’S ROAD, SW3 4NB | WESTFIELD, SHEPHERD’S BUSH, W12 7GF | 29 HAMPSTEAD HIGH STREET, NW3 1QA jacadi.com
PURE BABY
Shopping at Pure Baby is a treat: its beautifully bright and airy store is the perfect hub for hosting a variety of eclectic collections. The Fulham Road boutique offers toys, feeding essentials and baby clothing from classic formalwear to modern, everyday outfits from a variety of designers. It promotes British brands, such as Bonnie Baby and Toffee Moon, but also gives a nod to international fashion with the likes of clothing from Tartine et Chocolat and Il Gufo. 208 FULHAM ROAD, LONDON SW10 9PJ purebaby.co.uk
LITTLE FLOCK OF HORRORS
Muddy Puddles makes brilliant-quality, affordable children’s outdoor clothing. Passionate about inspiring kids to go outside, the range is designed using performance fabrics and is tested to ensure children stay warm, dry and happy whether splashing about in puddles or rolling in snow. The skiwear is designed to be 100% snow-proof and the collection includes jackets and salopettes as well as soft base layers and fleeces. We love their range of stylish snow boots too. muddypuddles.com
JAXON JAMES
Jaxon James opened its virtual doors in autumn and has quickly gained a name for itself as one of the coolest boutiques around. With a monochrome theme running through everything from rattles to the website branding, style-conscious parents can now have access to exclusive brands across clothing, accessories, toys and home interiors. It stocks some of the most sought after global brands – including Dill Clothing, Liten Landa and Lucky No.7 – and yet is based in the UK, so there’s quick delivery and no pesky extra payments. jaxonjamesuk.bigcartel.com
ON LIN E
MUDDY PUDDLES
ON LIN E
New Zealand’s most talked about new children’s label, Little Flock of Horrors fuses edgy design, adventurous colour and a lot of attitude into a chic line of 100% merino playwear for your little monsters. Handmade from nature’s ‘wonder fibre’, a full range of Little Flock of Horrors products can be found in the heart of Battersea. We would never pull the wool over your eyes – trust us when we say that merino is the best fabric on earth for kids. 151 NORTHCOTE ROAD, SW11 6QB littleflockofhorrors.co.uk
babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2016 | 157
YOUR SHOPPING
emporium The Fine Cotton Company Soft to the touch, kind on your conscience
Personalised Garlands Personalised children’s clocks Only £2.00 letter made in per Britain plus p+p
Organic bedding & accessories for children & babies
www.littletimbers.co.uk
www.thefinecottoncompany.com
tel: 01234 589383 web: www.littletimbers.co.uk
Artistic. Relaxed. Timeless.
Horkesley Joinery Ltd Bespoke Wooden • Stair Gates • Fire Guards • Stair Refurbs 01206 271 509 horkesleyjoinery@hotmail.co.uk www.horkesleyjoinery.co.uk 158 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
EMPORIUM Make your gifts personal! Luxury, stylish, individual ranges for the little people in your lives.
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BUSINESS
INSPIRE What inspired you to set up JoJo Maman Bébé. Where did the name come from? I started a property business in Brittany, but fashion was my first love. I spent time in hospital, where my ward neighbour had a stack of childrenswear catalogues. Her lack of choice sparked the idea for JoJo. I called my business JoJo (our bunny mascot), Maman (everything you need for pregnancy) and Bébé (a range from newborn to pre-school). You grew up in Wales and have spent time in France. What do you love about those places? I love that country and coastal children aren’t told, “You can’t go out today – it’s raining.” In Brittany, I would see toddlers on the beaches, fishing net ready, hand in hand with grandparents. How does London compare? London is different but great. I’ve been here since I was 16. I cycle everywhere. I love the ‘villages’ and enjoy exploring. Describe a typical day. I don’t have a routine – my life is frantic! Right now I’m on the train
162 | JAN/FEB 2016 | babylondon.co.uk
LAURA TENISON
We talk to the JoJo Maman Bébé founder about her business success and mixing work with motherhood to our head office in Wales. I’ll spend time chatting and training, and meet with our directors. I’ll unwind on my cycle ride from Paddington, arriving home in time to cook supper for my boys. JoJo won Best Online Retailer at our Little London Awards. Why did you open on the high street? I was advised against it. The internet was taking off, but I did not believe we would give up good quality shopping. My remit
was to open in county towns to help regenerate high streets. To what do you attribute the success of JoJo? Imaginative design, good service and value for money. But good people make the world go round and are without a doubt the reason JoJo is a success. What are your proudest achievements so far? I’ve been given two honorary fellowships and a doctorate. And, of course, I have my MBE and a business. But I am most proud of having two lovely boys. How have you managed to juggle your career and family? It’s not easy. I love my job and I generally have half an eye on work, but we have got by. I would bring them to work when I was
Laura realised her customers wanted their much-loved baby clothes to go to a good home
breastfeeding but, later on, I had a fantastic live-in au pair. Tell me about your From A Mother to Another charity. I hate that as a retailer we are contributing to landfill. So it was my idea to help those in need and extend the lifespan of clothes. We collected nearly 40,000 pieces of clothing last year, which we made into emergency packs. What is your advice for women thinking of starting a company? Don’t think it is the easy option. If you can find a niche, it gives you freedom. But I have friends with part-time jobs who can concentrate on work some days and their children on others – a luxury I can only dream of. What is the company’s future? We’re sorting the next four JoJo Maman Bébé openings, and I’m building the business plan for the next five years. Across the pond, our US launch is going well. bl jojomamanbebe.co.uk
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