Baby London November/December 2015

NATALIE PINKHAM Motoring through motherhood

Baby’s FIRST Christmas with Carole Middleton

BABYLONDON.CO.UK

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baby london NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2015

ALL THE WINNERS

CHEERS! HOW TO PARTY WHEN YOU’RE PREGNANT

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CHRISTMAS ALL YOU NEED FOR YOU AND YOUR NEW FAMILY

R A NE W NG E

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100% Merino Playwear for your little Monster! www.littleflockofhorrors.co.uk Visit us at 151 Northcote Road, Battersea, London SW11 6QB

* 20% discount is only available on full-priced items. Use the coupon code BL1115a on our website or present this advert at our showroom. Offer ends 31/01/16 while stocks last and excludes certain items.

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* 10% discount is only available on full-priced items. Use the coupon code BL1115b on our website or present this advert at our showroom. Offer ends 31/01/16 while stocks last and excludes certain items.

C

ameras are time machines. Literally. They catch a moment in time. Your child can look at your faded snaps one day and say, “I was there. I did that. I felt that.” That’s what life’s about. That’s what nostalgia is …

CRAFTED •

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Wonder is the proper pram from your childhood. The pram you always dreamed of.

Capture new memories with Wonder.

igo pure Nature.

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CONTENTS N OV/DEC 2015

Leander wears Snowflake Baby Jumper, £89, Caramel Baby & Child.

Hafren Baby Trouser in Midnight, £66, Caramel Baby & Child. Twinkle Star Tunic Top, £17, aden + anais. Cashmere Hand Knitted Booties, £25, Mandarine Coco. Rock Ewe Rocking Sheep, £348, Rowen & Wren Homewares.

The most festive treats with our Gift Guide

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FEATURES

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44

PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY

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55

77

TERRIFIC TOYS We discover the most beautifully designed toys for baby STAYING NEUTRAL Inspiration for a unisex nursery BACK IN THE FAST LANE First-time mum and FI reporter Natalie Pinkham tells us about returning to work LITTLE LONDON AWARDS Behind the scenes at the party where we crowned winners A GOOD YARN We champion the wonder wool merino

127

101 WHEN THREE BECOMES FOUR Growing your family? Jessica Jonzen tells her story 112 FIVE BEAUTY SAVIOURS Look and feel fresh this winter 124 TEETHING PROBLEMS The lowdown on caring for your child’s oral health 134 HAPPY SAFE HOMES Top tips to keep your family safe this festive season 157 FESTIVE FUN The very best Christmas events in the capital from Local Mummy

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STYLE

64 WONDERFUL WOOL Cute knits and cashmere for littles ones 74 SHOP THE SHOOT Wrap up warm with our wool edit 82 DRESS THE PART Elaine Lloyd-Jones offers A-list inspiration for your maternity wardrobe 104 LONDON SIBLINGS Our beautiful bedtime style edit

SHOPPING

27 WINTER SHOPPING Polar bears, penguins and all things snowy come out to play

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 9

Editor Susannah Warren Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Senior Sub Editor Sally Hales Editorial Assistants Lily Smith Senior Art Editor Chloë Collyer Senior Designers Pio Blanco Designer Maria Sagun Contributing Editors Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton

48 88 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Your Christmas shopping sorted, plus exclusive vouchers 116 HOT SEATS We round up the most stylish nursing chairs on the market 122 THE REVIEW This issue we’re breathing easy with the help of humidifiers

143 TRAVEL NEWS Prepare to pack your bags 144 A POSTCARD FROM MEXICO Discover the babymoon beach paradise of Tulum

REGULARS

17

BABY NEWS Stay in the know 35 MY ESSENTIALS Rebecca Kiff shares with us her journey into motherhood 38 WINTER WONDERS The most festive books for baby 97 TOT GEAR We put the Mountain Buggy Nano to the test 111 HEALTH AND BEAUTY NEWS The latest in wellbeing

80 Carole Middleton offers her brilliant ideas for a fabulously festive party 10 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Client Development Manager Lesley McDiarmid Sales Executives Amy Thacker, Harriet Cottrell, Katie Amps Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby London is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: babylondon.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: editorial@littlemedia.co.uk

Cracking Christm

as cupcakes (p.13

8)

114 PARTY TIME? Louisa van den Bergh looks at how to enjoy the party season while pregnant 119 TIME TO TALK… Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt discuss the issue of caesarean sections 120 MEET THE EXPERTS Advising you on bump, birth and more 130 DIARY OF A MUM Becky Dickinson, mum of three, faces a bathroom dilemma 138 WINTER WEANING MADE EASY Annabel Karmel creates some taste sensations for the chilly season 147 EDUCATION NEWS The latest developments from the classroom and beyond 148 MEET THE HEAD We travel to Surrey to find out more about St Catherine’s Preparatory School 151 MINI AGENDA What’s on in the capital this winter 166 GET MORE… Your chance to win big prizes 170 INSPIRE This issue we chat to the founders of personalisation company My 1st Years

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 2015 All rights reserved

SUBSCRIBE Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive Baby London magazine for a year, delivered straight to your door all for just £14.99.

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

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PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: CASSIUS Cassius wears Bear Sweater, £150, Marie-Chantal.

Grandad Shirt, £55, Marie-Chantal. Cashmere Striped Trousers, from £39, Olivier Baby and Kids.

Baby Bobbl Grey Hat, £45, Bobbl.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

TRAVEL

Publisher Annabella Ward Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Marketing Manager Will Delmont Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Stephanie Organ, Chatty Dobson, Ginny Maclean

REARWARD SEAT WITH I-SIZE APPROVAL FROM BIRTH UP TO A HEIGHT OF 105 CM

REVERSO A new benchmark.

EASY HANDLING The convenient rotating wheels allow the leg supports and, in particular, the angle of sitting or lying to be adjusted.

EXTRA LIGHT With the inlay for newborns inserted, the Reverso weighs 10.9 kg – without the inlay it even weighs in at under 10 kg (9.9 kg).

EXTREME SAFE The Reverso fulfils the new European i-Size standard and provides the highest standards of safety.

http://en.concord.es, Facebook: www.facebook.com/concord.childrensproducts, Twitter: @Concordforbaby, Phone: 01273 416179 Also available on Amazon.

Take control of your child’s education Nursery School for children 6 months to 5 years

“Happy, excited and raring to start every morning, is how I would describe Jack every time he is due to go to Abacus Ark Nursery.”

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Clapham Junction • Maida Vale • Wandsworth Town

www.abacusark.com • info@abacusark.com Call 020 7624 5718

We love this graphic print Pyjama Set £28.99, pandaping.com

My First Christmas Decoration £14.95, harrods.com

EDITORʼS

LETTER

SUSANNAH WARREN, EDITOR

Join me online…

Babylondonmagazine

@Baby_London

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L

London Read all about the first Little 5) (p.5 rice Cap by ed host rds Awa

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

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Handmade Merino Slippers in Aqua £30, camomile.london

special with her fabulous festive tips (p.80).

Talking of Kate, we’re all delighted about the safe arrival in August of Charlotte Grace, who has already made it into the magazine in our adorable London Siblings shoot (p.104).

If you’re expecting, getting through the party season may feel like an uphill struggle. But don’t worry, help is at hand.

Our maternity-wear feature shows you how to dress your bump like a Hollywood A-lister (p.83), Lulubaby gives us the lowdown on what you can and can’t eat from the canapé tray (p.114) and we feature five beauty saviours that will keep you looking fresh throughout (p.112).

As the nights draw in and the leaves start to fall, it’s time to cosy up in some winter woollies and our Wonderful Wool shoot (p.64) showcases the pick of the most stylish pieces for your baby’s wardrobe. And if that doesn’t warm you up, then our travel pages certainly will (p.143).

A happy and healthy festive season to all!

ND

UK

Jo Loves Christmas Trees Candle £45, joloves.com

Christmas always manages to creep up on me, no matter how many lists I write or presents I squirrel away. Not this year, however. Putting together our festive issue has really got me in the spirit of things ahead of time and put me one step ahead – and we very much hope it will do the same for you, too. There’s inspiration galore throughout the magazine, from toys to books to fashion, as well as a dedicated gift guide to help you pick the perfect presents for your little ones (p.88).

I’m delighted to have joined the Baby London team at such an exciting time for the magazine, not least ahead of its inaugural Little London Awards, which were hosted with remarkable aplomb by Caprice Bourret on 6 October, and recognised the best of the best in the parenting industry (p.55).

Having just returned to work myself, I take my hat off to Natalie Pinkham, who tells us about life back on the Formula One circuit with baby Wilf in tow (p.48). If like Natalie and Kate Finney – whose editor’s chair I’m keeping warm – you’ve had a baby this year, let Carole Middleton help you make their first Christmas that extra bit

O N .C O

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@babylondonmagazine

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 13

,E

LIAN NE

EN BERGH

Where were you born?

Odstock, Salisbury.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings?

Stodge – and plenty of it, thank you!

What’s your favourite London family day out?

Wimbledon Common to make dens.

What do you want in your Christmas stocking?

Planning permission. And maybe some cashmere socks, too.

Louisa gives her festive party tips on p.114

Where were you born?

Melbourne, Australia.

What’s your first outfit memory?

I loved to dress up – tutu skirts and ballet tops!

Tell us the best thing about being pregnant.

Feeling all the magical little wriggles inside.

Do you have a Christmas wish?

Our baby is due on Christmas Day, so a happy, healthy little girl.

Courtney discovers Wonderful Wool on p.64

N, JOURN LIRI AL KO I

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CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

I was born in Tel Aviv in Israel.

Where do you live in London?

I live with my husband and our three sons in Whetstone, in the borough of Barnet.

What’s your favourite place in the capital for a fun family day out?

One of our current favourite hangouts is the former Olympic Park.

Lianne brings you the best days out on p.151

BABY LONDON ONLINE When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee and have a moment to spare, dip in and get your daily digital fix. Here’s what we’ve been up to recently…

YOU SAY…

@PeekabooBabyBox shared this great shot on Twitter

@dinosaurclaire @Baby_London Love your latest issue! Makes a heavily pregnant commute much more bearable! @LittleRoutines @Baby_London Fantastic tips for #baby proofing your home. #babyadvice #toddler

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@3BubblegumGirls We hope last night was a success! Congrats to the winners! #llawards #babylondon #eventprofs

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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

@LittleLdnMusic Piccolo’s first award ceremony! #LittleLondonAwards2015

14 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk Baby London’s amazing stand at the Baby & Toddler Show at Sandown Park

NEW! Baby Carrier One The ultimate ergonomic edition www.babybjorn.com

The Parallel Line Design is a sign of a genuine BABYBJĂ–RN product.

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

baby

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NEWS

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NEWS

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TOY CLUB

Fed up with tripping over your children’s toys and endlessly tidying away? London mothers Jessica Green and Sheela Berry were too, which is why they’re launching Toy Box Club.

Designed for pre-schoolers, the monthly subscription service delivers a carefully edited, age-appropriate selection of quality books and toys each month, collecting the old set in the process. The first of its kind in the UK, Toy Box Club aims to stimulate your child’s development at every stage, reduce waste and give you back your floor space. From £20 a month. toyboxclub.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

as ever y month It’s like Christm ub with Toy Box Cl

FOLLOWING ON FROM ITS POPULAR ANTENATAL COURSES, LULUBABY IS READY TO HELP YOU AFTER YOUR BABY IS BORN. IT HAS JUST LAUNCHED LULUNANNIES, A MATERNITY NURSE AND NIGHT NANNY BUSINESS OFFERING A PERSONAL TOUCH AND LOWER THAN INDUSTRY-AVERAGE PRICES. CHECK OUT LULUBABY.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 17

NEWS

��% OFF

In true festive spirit it’s time to enjoy Christmas shopping for less with My �st Years

FASHION FORWARD A personalised gift is one to cherish and British company My 1st Years specialise in personalisation.

Christmas is a time for giving, so the team at My 1st Years is offering Baby London readers an exclusive 20% off to enjoy just in time for those Christmas stockings! All products come personalised and presented in a beautiful gift box free of charge, making the perfect gift for a special new addition to the family.

Award-winning personalised gifts for newborns and toddlers

Fashion-conscious fathers rejoice: this is the ultimate man pram. Diesel x Bugaboo is back and the second instalment focuses on Diesel’s demin heritage. The Bugaboo Buffalo is made of hand-ripped, faded denim, with black and leather-look details. A matching denim and leather bag is available for stylish practicality. bugaboo.com

my1styears.com OFFER CODE: LDN20 * Offer valid until midnight on Wednesday 16 December 2015.

Valid on full price items only. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers. Code can only be redeemed once per customer.

A Swedish behavioural psychologist has created a book that uses psychological techniques to help children sleep. The Rabbit Who Wants To Fall Asleep has had great reviews and topped Amazon charts. Tired of tricky bedtimes? Give it a go.

GET ANIMATED Fashion brand Mamas & Papas has joined forces with Disney to add a touch of magic to baby’s attire. There are two collections: the first is inspired

by Bambi, while the cheeky charm of Pinocchio influences the second. mamasandpapas.com

18 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PERFECT POLLY

Being pregnant shouldn’t mean sacrificing your style. Polly Hayward’s new maternity brand Just Polly aims to ensure women look and feel great during and after their pregnancy. Her designs are timeless and stylishly intelligent, from concealed breastfeeding options in your LBD to ‘modesty blankets’ in the same style as your outfit. This may be just what modish mums-to-be have been waiting for. justpolly.co.uk

Discover more at www.icandyworld.com

NEWS

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

Get all your Christmas shopping done under one roof at the annual Spirit of Christmas Fair at Olympia from 2 November to 8 November. With more than 600 companies showcasing goods, the fair has all the inspiration you need. Browse through the finest seasonal products and discover unique gifts for your little ones that you won’t find in the high street. And if you need a break, there’s the Louis Roederer Champagne Bar. spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk

CELEBRITY STYLE Seen on the children of Katie Holmes, Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck, Canadian clothing brand Hatley has opened its first UK boutique in West London’s Chiswick High Road. The store showcases its funky and fresh designs for daywear, outerwear, beachwear and sleepwear. hatley.com

WHEELS OF GOLD

SLEEP WELL

Shnuggle has launched Dreami, a flexible and versatile sleep system. Its base has a ventilated inner core, while the Curve stand can be transformed into a low-level rocker and can be easily folded up. shnuggle.com

Silver Cross has launched a bespoke Balmoral pram. The carriage is plated with 18-carat rose gold, while the hood and trims are the finest English leather and Italian Alcantara fabric.

Made to order, with your name engraved on a plaque, the unique Balmoral is exclusive to Harrods. harrods.com

BABY AND CHILDRENSWEAR BRAND POWELL CRAFT HAS JUST LAUNCHED ITS VERY OWN WEBSITE. VISIT POWELLCRAFTBOUTIQUE.COM TO BROWSE ITS TREASURE TROVE OF VINTAGE-INSPIRED PIECES, INCLUDING THE BEAUTIFULLY HAND-FINISHED NIGHTWEAR AND DISTINCTIVE RAINCOATS FOR WHICH THE BRAND IS RENOWNED

20 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Beautifully presented in its own suitcase the Cableknit Blanket combines a traditional knit pattern with modern contrasting colours.

This lambswool blanket provides a warm and cosy environment perfect for use all year round.

Available in Grey or Rose.

Discover more www.icandyworld.com

NEWS

FLOWER POWER

HEDGE FUNDS

Online kids’ boutique Hippychick has teamed up with the British Hedgehog Preservation Society to create the Hedgehog Wheelybug.

For every prickly pal sold, 20% of the proceeds will go towards protecting the UK’s hedgehogs. hippychick.com

Leading British childrenswear brand Nicki Macfarlane, which dressed the bridesmaids at the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding in 2012, has celebrated its 10-year anniversary by opening its first boutique. Situated in the heart of Chelsea, the one-stop shop stocks the designer’s muchloved flower girl, page boy, party and special occasion garments, with accessories from the best of British brands, including Little Linens and Angel’s Face. nickimacfarlane.com

BEST OF THE BLOGS

The Dad Network is your guide to the highs and lows of fatherhood

The internet is awash with wisdom but these brilliant bloggers get straight to point with spot-on honest and practical advice

THE DAD NETWORK

The days of fatherhood involving little more than the occasional bit of babysitting and a kickaround in the park on a Saturday afternoon are long gone. Today’s dads want to part of the parenthood journey every step of the way.

Founded by Al Ferguson, The Dad Network blog aims to be your guide as you tackle the unique challenges of 21st-century fatherhood. thedadnetwork.co.uk

22 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

COCO MAMA STYLE

It’s easy to lose your style mojo when you’re pregnant or a new mum. Changing bodies and a lack of time can cause wardrobe malfunctions. But inspiration is at hand thanks to stylist and mum-of-two Helen Canning, who shares her fashion and lifestyle advice in this super-slick blog. Combining her professional styling knowledge and personal experiences of pregnancy and motherhood, Coco Mama Style will remind you just how good you can look. cocomamastyle.com

THE UNMUMSY MUM

If you feel like everyone is a better mum than you, you are not alone. Sarah Turner knows how you feel. When she had children, she was shocked to discover everyone seemed to be coping so well and felt compelled to counter this with her refreshingly honest blog. Her hilarious guide to motherhood documents the reality of parenting, rather than the sugar-coated version so many mothers present to friends.

It will cheer you up when things gets tough. theunmumsymum.blogspot.co.uk

View the complete range at www.clair-de-lune.co.uk www.facebook.com/clairdeluneuk T: 0161 491 9800.

Made in the UK.

There for the most preci us in life

BABY STYLE

LOVES

Crowning Glories As a mother of five and the Crown Princess of Greece, Marie-Chantal knows about style and practicality. This season, her children’s label beautifully blends the two with a dose of preppy styling to create winter wonders such as these.

Dress £79, Cardigan £69 | mariechantal.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 25

SHOPPING

Organic Bear Sleep Set £19.95, gap.co.uk

Arco Polar Bear £189, steiff.com

Polar Bear Face Top £14.95, johnlewis.com Sail Boat With Polar Bear Bath Toy £12, mollymeg.com

tinycottons Bear Trousers ¤22,50, smallable.com

POLAR BEARS Celebrating the beauty of this Arctic giant, these fun and stylish must-haves are the perfect addition to your Christmas list

Fuddle Wuddle Polar Bear £20, my1styears.com Polar Bear Baby Sleepsuit £16, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Bear Sweater £15.99, zara.com

Forever Book £6.99, templarco.co.uk Polar Bears Rain Boot £22, hatley.com Emile Et Ida Bears Onesie ¤37,50, smallable.com

Introduce your little ones to the lovely world of Sylvanian Families Sylvanian Polar Bear Family ¤29, smallable.com

Ingela P Arrhenius Polar Bear Poster £18.50, thekidwho.eu

Polar Bear Cashmere Mix Jumper £22, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 27

SHOPPING Give the nursery a super cool and fun feel Penguins Wallpaper £72, turnerpocock.com

Wooden Stacker and Rocker £15, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Penguin Chime Toy £5.95, mamasandpapas.com

Bass & Bass Push Toy ¤29, smallable.com

Penguin Sweatshirt £38, minirodini.com

PENGUINS Our funny feathered friend loves cool climes and makes the ideal inspiration for these adorable wintry designs

Penguin Hat £12, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Penguin and Pinecone Book £5.99, bloomsbury.com

Notting Hill Tote Penguin Love £69, pinklining.com Percy the Penguin Sweatshirt £21, tobiasandthebear.com

Bobble Penguin £9, jellycat.com

Penguin Toe Muff £100, minirodini.com 28 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Penguin Bedsocks £8, cathkidston.com

Stripey Cats Personalised Print £30, johnlewis.com

beautiful clothes for gorgeous girls 0-13y Notting Hill, London W11 2AJ 020 7229 5855 Primrose Hill, London NW1 8UY 020 7586 1552

www.ilovegorgeous.co.uk

SHOPPING The Snowman Ornament £69.90, steiff.com Jacquard Sweater £50, petit-bateau.co.uk

Cosy Star Two-in-One Jacket £50, boden.com

SNOW

Snowflake Mitts £16, hambroandmiller.com

Dreaming of a white Christmas? Here’s our pick of the best snowy buys to introduce your little ones to the wonder of winter

Christmas Knitted Romper £22, mamasandpapas.co.uk

Adorn your Christmas tree with these tasty decorations Gingerbread Tree Decoration £3.49 each, daylesford.com

Snowman Slipper Socks £10, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Snowman Baby Sleepsuit £16, jojomamanbebe.co.uk Snowman Fair Isle Romper £30, boden.com The Snowman and the Snowdog £7.99, penguin.com

Chloe Baby Fur Boots ¤90,83, smallable.com Falling Snowflakes Mod Dress £28, hatley.com

Sparkle Snow Box £10, fortnumandmason.com 30 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

D E A R S A N TA . . .

This very special Holly doll’s pram is finished in festive red, and comes complete with a beautiful Holly rag doll and co-ordinating bag www.silvercrossbaby.com

PHONE 01978 664 362

INTERVIEW

MY ESSENTIALS REBECCA KIFF

How are you finding life as a new mother to little Alfred?

I love it! It can be tiring but I can’t imagine life without him. Every day more of his personality shines through and it’s so much fun.

What were your ‘can’t live without’ pregnancy products?

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter, for stretch marks, leggings and bottles of water. It isn’t a product per se but I also did yoga every day, which was so important for my pregnancy wellbeing.

We talk to the fashion designer about her eponymous children’s brand and life as a new mum massages. It’s lovely for bonding.

Some unexpected finds were using microfibre cloths instead of muslin cloths, cravat-style dribble bibs and white noise to help Alfred sleep. I must also

add how brilliant baby wipes are, as they have a million uses, not just for bottoms. Dan is quite obsessed with them and uses them to clean

Any unexpected finds you’d recommend for new mothers?

If you find time to have a relaxing bath, Neal’s Yard Mother’s Bath Oil is wonderful. We also use the Neal’s Yard Pure Baby Oil to give Alfred

A relaxed Rebecca nurses her little one Rebecca loves Neal’s Yard oils for mother and baby

everything, including the house and his own face.

What do you use as a changing bag and what is in it?

I use Mothercare’s Grey Stripes Satchel. I love that it doesn’t look too much like a changing bag. I have essentials for me: a scarf for nursing, a clean top, lip balm and my phone. For Alfred: nappies, wipes, clean clothes, a blanket, bibs and antibacterial gel.

We noticed Alfred was modelling chic, animal-print reusable nappies on Instagram.

Is being an eco-friendly parent important to you?

It is important to me but I can’t pretend I’m perfect. I use disposables when I run out of reusables and I throw away more than I care to admit.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 35

INTERVIEW

A tender moment with baby

Where do you like to shop for Alfred?

High street stores such as GapKids, H&M and Zara, and smaller brands such as Monkey & Mole and Goat-Milk. I also make him clothes myself. For essentials, we go to Aldi as the products are award-winning and so cheap.

As an artist and designer, it must have been exciting kitting out Alfred’s nursery?

It was indeed. I couldn’t wait to get started. I decided on white walls as a fresh and modern base so I could accessorise with fun and colourful bedding and objects. I made him a couple of my blankets, which felt special.

It was amazing to see him using them after he was born. I have held back with his nursery to a degree because I see it as a work in progress – a room that can grow with him.

Seeing how he uses products has given me some new ideas.

He uses his Rebecca Kiff Zebra Blanket as a playmat.

Your designs are animal-inspired.

Do you have a favourite animal?

I have a few, among them are birds, monkeys and sloths.

Has having a little one of your own given you new inspiration?

Putting clothes on him every day has influenced how I design clothing in terms of practicality.

The young family enjoys going on long walks

How do you juggle running your own business with the demands of a new baby?

I try to make full use of his nap times. My husband, Dan,

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is invaluable, too. He is also a business owner, so he can sympathise with how hard it can be to find a good work-life balance. He is always trying to find ways to help with my work, whether that is answering emails or taking Alfred for a while so that I can concentrate.

Where do you like to go with Alfred in your spare time?

Dan and I love to taking him to cafes and restaurants, and on long walks. I also love meeting up with my friends and family.

We adore the new Zebra collection. What other products can we look forward to from you?

New bedding ranges are in the works for 2016, along with some completely new products to complement the old favourites.

And, lastly, how will you be spending your first Christmas as a little family?

I imagine that it will be quiet, filled with lots of relaxing at home and going for long walks. rebeccakiff.com

36 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: DAN RAYNHAM

Rebecca and husband Dan with little Alfred

Alfred

Winter WONDERS Emma O’Donovan FIN DS TH E MOST FE STIVE BOOKS FOR BABY

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

By Jennifer Adams and Alison Oliver

Part of a series of engaging and entertaining first concept books that reference classic literature, in this case Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, this is a deliciously stylish introduction to colours and shapes. £5.99, Gibbs Smith

38 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Hunt for Reindeer’s squeaky nose in this hilarious adventure

WINTER

by Ailie Busby

I LOVE YOU, FATHER CHRISTMAS

the North Pole. Join the fun and help Santa deliver the presents. £4.99, Nosy Crow

THE MAGICAL SNOW GARDEN

Christmas is captured through one little boy’s enthusiasm. Joyful rhyme makes this a must-have. £6.99, Orchard Books

CHRISTMAS FOR GRETA AND GRACIE

Snuggle up and share this heart-warming picture book about refusing to give up on a dream. This is an unforgettable story about how each of us can achieve our dreams. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

Sensory and engaging, this beautifully illustrated exploration of indoor and outdoor play introduces little ones to winter.

From warming soup to feeding the birds, this is a delightful read. £3.99, Child’s Play

By Giles Andreae and Emma Dodd

SANTA’S REINDEER

By Lucy Cousins

By Tom Duxbury and Matilda Tristram, illustrated by Nick Sharratt An irresistible squeaky nose plays a pivotal role in this madcap Christmas adventure. Hunt for Reindeer’s missing nose and meet a gaggle of charming friends along the way. Bold, bright and bonkers. £10.99, Walker Books

BOOKS

MAISY’S CHRISTMAS TREE Maisy is decorating the tree.

There are lights and ornaments to place. A perfect stocking filler. £5.99, Walker Books

BIZZY BEAR: CHRISTMAS HELPER

By Benji Davies

Christmas is almost here, and Bizzy is making himself useful at

By Yasmeen Ismail

A beautifully observed story about sisterly love and overcoming differences. Told with humour, it includes a magical encounter with Santa. Exquisite. £10.99, Nosy Crow

IS IT CHRISTMAS YET?

By Jane Chapman

Christmas is coming and Ted is so excited, he’s ready to pop. This charming story is an ideal book to read in the run up to the big day. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

By Tracey Corderoy and Jane Chapman

BABY’S VERY FIRST CHRISTMAS PLAYBOOK Full to the brim with seasonal features for the youngest readers, this playbook explores Christmas scenes embellished with a stimulating and engaging variety of interactive elements. £14.99, Usborne

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 39

Personalised gifts for newborns & beyond Free personalisation

♥

Complimentary gift box

♥

Free UK delivery over £40

www.my1styears.com

PLAYTIME

Terrific

TOYS Carl Shaw, H E AD H ONCH O AT TH E MU LTI-AWAR D WIN NING SPECIALIST R E TAILER TOYELL A , PUTS TH E MOST BE AUTIFU L BABY TOYS TO TH E TE ST

Wood Mini Maracas Circus

Sirch SIBIs Max Ride-On Car

WOOD MINI MARACAS CIRCUS The best toys are those that have a timeless quality. They work in the background with continuous appeal for everyone. This set of three beechwood maracas has everything: a beautiful smooth tactile finish using sustainable non-toxic materials; high-contrast yet on-trend colouring; varied shapes; and, of course, sound. Baby has plenty of stimulus before the music even starts. And for mum this is the kind of toy that doubles as objet d’art and is far too attractive to tidy away. £28, e-side.co.uk

SIRCH SIBIS MAX RIDE-ON CAR In a market where many mass-market toys have minimum quality for maximum profit, it is reassuring there are still artisans out there who put maximum care into toy design. The Germans have a heritage in car design and

Wobble Raccoon

wood craft. This ride-on brings both together.

A single piece of steamed plywood is moulded in 360° to create the unique ergonomics of this delightful toy – not because they needed to but because they wanted to. £84.95, lullabuy.co.uk

DEUZ BALL It’s a known fact that babies respond to high-contrast toys as their sight develops. The market is packed with black-and-white and multi-stimuli toys, so we’re all looking for a new twist on a tried-and-tested toy.

French brand Deuz has produced an elegant surface-patterned ball that offers visual stimulus but doesn’t overdo things by adding the complexity of a spaceshuttle cockpit. £7.29, en.smallable.com

WOBBLE RACCOON Those who owned Weebles will remember how much fun they were but have probably not forgotten how ugly they were. This little chap is a cuter twist on the wobble principle and comes from the very sleek Kid O range.

There are three animal characters to choose from but I always like the more unusual ones.

Raccoons may be native to the US, where these toys are designed, but sometimes it is nice to introduce different animals to our little ones. It is much better than relying on an annual trip to the zoo. £7.99, toyella.com

Deuz Ball babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 41

PLAYTIME

Su Animals

gg* Gakki

Mozartkugel Beech Music Ball

Equus Rocker

Mix and Match Game

SU ANIMALS can be played at different distances and with custom spacing. It’s a challenge that channels the natural appeal of things falling down. £40, mollymeg.com

The discerning doll owner need look no further than these cashmere cuties from Snuggly Ugly. Made from 100% upcycled cashmere, hypoallergenic filler and featuring Liberty of London print ties, the Mouse, Dear or Pig designs are right on the mark for style.

From $56, snuggly-ugly.com

GG* GAKKI A set of three original musical toys that stylishly add a dimension of colour and shape to sound. Many early years toy instruments go no further than adding nursery decorations to create child appeal. These Japanese offerings deliver typical understated depth. Basic mathematical shapes and primary colours almost go unnoticed at first glance but the designers have extended the live span of the toys by not alienating older children. £50, thekidwho.eu

MOZARTKUGEL BEECH MUSIC BALL For a unique heirloom toy consider this exquisite handmade German music ball. Turn the clockwork mechanism for four minutes of

42 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

MIX AND MATCH GAME

BY INGELA P ARRHENIUS Nobodinoz Bowling Set

Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro. Created in Bavaria the Mozartkugels are a perfect Christening gift and nursery piece for soothing bedtime music.

The key can be removed to allow the music ball to be rolled while playing. £49.99, toyella.com

NOBODINOZ BOWLING SET Another example of the great use of colour in children’s toys. Nobodinoz recognises not everything has to be red, blue, yellow. Breaking away from primary colours adds a level sophistication to toys and elevates them to something more than just playthings. Skittles

One factor that affects the attention span of a toy is how much the parents have to work with. The beauty of this mix and match game is the detail in the illustration. Children will love mixing head, body and legs to create zany personalities but parents can get involved pointing out and explaining the subtle layers. £12, thekidwho.eu

EQUUS ROCKER The desire for key sentimental pieces for the nursery has not disappeared. This contemporary twist on the rocking horse will appeal to many. The chic ‘lamb’ is made to order from certified sustainable plywood to stand the test of time. Designer Osian Batyka-Williams cleverly adds adjustable foot support positions so parents get longevity. £600, bouf.com

The ultimate Connection stroller.

Stokke® Xplory®

STYLE AWARDS 2014

WINNER

Best buggy design

stokke.com

Available at

and other leading nursery stores.

Design: Bjørn Refsum/Hilde Angelfoss, Design development in cooperation with K8 Industridesign AS, Product development in cooperation with Bård Eker Industrial Design AS.

RUNNING HEAD

STAYING NEUTRAL TAKE YOU R CU E S FROM ROOM TO BLOOM OWN ER AN D DE SIGN ER Ursula Wesselingh TO CR E ATE TH E PER FEC T GEN DER-N EUTR AL N U R SERY

World Map Poster, £25, Mint Dipped Belly Basket, £29, Nema Kilim Rug, £139, olliella.com

44 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

INTERIORS

Polar Bear Knut Cushion £39, skandivis.co.uk

Studio Bibi Felt Mobile £12.99, thismodernlife.co.uk

This Danish-designed graphic print will add a wonderfully nostalgic feel Ferm Living Bear Flying A Kite Wallpaper £59.95, nubie.co.uk

here are many good reasons to go for a gender-neutral style when decorating your baby’s nursery: you might not want to know the sex until the birth; you might have a girl and a boy sharing a room; or you might want to avoid gender stereotyping on more philosophical grounds.

Whatever your reason, here are some tips for beautiful gender-neutral decorating:

T

1

Keep it simple: choose strong, clean lines for the main pieces of furniture and don’t over decorate – the simpler you keep it, the less there is to say boy or girl.

2

Reduce the room’s palette to white and muted neutrals such as stone, beige or grey. This soothing background gives you the option to accessorise with more gender-specific colours once your baby is born, if you wish.

3

A neutral palette doesn’t have to be boring: make sure you layer in lots of texture and natural materials such as timber, soft fabrics, linen, baskets, fluffy pillows, sheepskins or woven rugs to add depth to the scheme.

4

If you want to use more colour, mint, green and turquoise-based tones are great gender-neutral choices as they have a restful and calming effect. Yellow is wonderful for gender-neutral rooms too, but is best kept to small accents as it’s a very energising colour.

5

If you want to use additional colour, choose more grown-up variations such

as grey-blue, ochre, mustard, dusky plum or midnight blue, for example.

6

Snug Studio ABC Blocks Poster

£19, thismodernlife.co.uk Monochrome decorating is very popular right now and perfect for a gender-neutral nursery. But make sure that you add lots of texture and natural wood to create warmth when using this colour scheme.

7

Give the room personality and focus by creating an accent wall with patterned wallpaper or a bold two-tone paint effect.

8

Another way to create a focal point is to use a large vintage wardrobe painted in a statement colour. Doubling as toy storage, it keeps the room feeling calm and clutter-free.

Oeuf NYC Knitted Snake £60, mollymeg.com

9

Avoid themes for gender-neutral nurseries because these are usually gender led.

Exceptions are nature-inspired themes, such as a woodland or animals. Other good choices are stars and clouds, or letters and numbers.

10

Use pattern sparingly and keep it to geometrics and simple shapes such as chevrons, stripes, dots and stars rather than, say, flowers or cars. Shapes are often more gender-defining than colour.

11

Shop away from the high street, where gender stereotyping still dominates children’s décor. Seek out indie designers and look at Scandinavian brands, which are generally better at avoiding the boy-girl divide.

Sheepskin Rug £35, johnlewis.com

room-to-bloom.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 45

Stars Garland £23.49, smallable.com

Cloud Wall Light £64, thismodernlife.co.uk

Harlequin Wallpaper £59.95, thismodernlife.co.uk

Mini Polka Dot Cot Quilt £78, camomile.london Rabbit Nature Decoration £25, skandivis.co.uk

Oeuf Mini Library £509, huggle.co.uk

Alphabet Pebbles £16, thismodernlife.co.uk

Houses Storage £75.65, thismodernlife.co.uk Mister Polar Bear Print £12, thismodernlife.co.uk Mix and match products to create the perfect colour palette for your baby’s cot

Circus Bruno Print £15, thismodernlife.co.uk

Lightbox DIY Letter Lamp £18, thismodernlife.co.uk

Spot Floral Cot Quilt £78, camomile.london

46 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

More brilliant colours than ever!

Tripp Trapp速

First launched in 1972, the iconic Tripp Trapp速 high chair is now available in more trend-led and classic colours than ever before. Its smart, adjustable design grows with your child, providing a comfortable seat at any age. The latest additions to our collection also include accessories in a rich palette of new patterns in vivid colours. Personalise your Tripp Trapp速 with our expanded range of styling options.

Discover our full collection at stokke.com

Best high chair design

DESIGN AWARDS

HIGH CHAIR DESIGN

WINNER

Tripp Trapp速 Designed in Norway by: Peter Opsvik.

WINNER

2015

STYLE AWARDS 2014

Available at

and other leading nursery stores.

48 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

CELEBRATE

BACK IN THE

fast lane

F 1 R EPORTER AN D N EW MUM Natalie Pinkham TELL S Lily Smith ABOUT MOTH ER HOOD, H ER R E TU R N TO WOR K AN D TAKING BABY WILF ON TOU R

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 49

RUNNING HEAD

ubbly and animated, Natalie Pinkham is every bit as charismatic in person as she is on screen. At her home in Kew, the TV reporter happily chats to me about her morning spent doing an assault course for Sky Sports, and readily shares stories about her travels and work.

But, when we hear gurgling from upstairs, something in her shifts. As she returns with her seven-month-old son, Wilf, who is dressed in an adorable racing car hoodie, she is quieter, completely mesmerised by her son.

“I always knew I would love and bond with this little creature,” she says. “But it has blown me away just how much I have. I can’t remember life before him. I’ll probably start crying now if I talk about it too much. But the intensity is overwhelming. I love him so much.”

Wilf was born in January and, despite a very harrowing birth that put both her and her son’s life in danger, Natalie has taken to motherhood like a duck to water.

“I absolutely love it. There’s nothing that I don’t love about it!” she smiles. “Obviously, I’m knackered, but being exhausted is a small price to pay for being happy all of the time.”

A Formula 1 pit lane reporter for Sky Sports since 2011, Natalie has built an excellent reputation in the industry and beyond. Outside sport, she has recorded documentaries in orphanages and is a patron of multiple charities. But her success, she admits, is a result of a heavy focus on herself.

“You go through a massive chunk of your life

B

50 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

where it’s all about you,” she says. “Different things matter, different things are important.

Then you have a baby and realise there isn’t time to be selfish anymore. It’s a really grounding, humbling experience. It makes you grow up properly.”

Nevertheless, work is still a big part of her life. She returned just six weeks after giving birth, a decision she made based on the sporadic nature of her work and the fact she lives just five minutes away from Sky’s studios.

“I could easily pop home to feed him. I was even pumping my boobs in the office!” she laughs. “Some of my friends face the dilemma of finding it heart-wrenching to leave their baby, but also missing work and adult interaction. I feel so lucky my job allows me to have both. So far, it’s been a great balance.

Today, for example, he was with his nanny for three hours while I was filming and now I’m back. Both our parents are fantastic at helping out, too. It’s a real team effort.”

Her role in the limelight means looking good is important but she has nothing to worry about on that score. She is in enviable shape for someone who gave birth just eight months ago. I wonder how she has done it.

“Breastfeeding is amazing for getting rid of the baby weight. I’m a vegetarian and I’ve always eaten reasonably healthily but, primarily, it is because I married someone

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG, SKY SPORTS

I ALWAYS KNEW I WOULD LOVE AND BOND WITH THIS LITTLE CREATURE, BUT IT HAS BLOWN ME AWAY JUST HOW MUCH

Natalie at work as a reporter for Sky Sports on th e F1 circuit

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Which is why we make baby mattresses and bedding out of entirely natural, chemical free materials. www.naturalmat.co.uk Mattresses made by hand in Devon Naturalmat_babylondon_202x129_Nov15.indd 1

52 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

01392 877 247 Notting Hill Shop ~ 99 Talbot Road, London, W11 2AT 22/09/2015 15:56

RUNNING HEAD

Natalie’s travel essentials “He loves looking out and taking in the world” BabyBjörn One Carrier £120, johnlewis.com

“It’s lightweight and folds away really easily” Bugaboo Bee³ Bee ³ Stroller From £539, bugaboo.com

“It always calms him down when he’s ‘aggy’!”

Infacol £2.99, boots.com

like Owain [her TV executive husband]. He gets me out in the garden doing fitness sessions, like boxing. He’ll say, ‘Right, 100 burpees now, Pinky!’ and he makes me do it.”

Work isn’t always five minutes up the road.

Natalie’s job as a presenter on The F1 Show involves a worldwide tour from March to November to cover the 20 or so Grand Prix races in the calendar. Such a crazy schedule seems incompatible with caring for a new baby, but Natalie miraculously has managed to do both and has never gone a full day without seeing her son.

Wherever she goes, Wilf goes too.

“So far, he has been to Marrakech, Spain, Monaco, Austria, Hungary, Italy and the Caribbean. And he is about to go to Singapore.

My mum comes with me to the races and takes him off sightseeing into the city while I’m filming.”

Natalie’s decision to take Wilf on tour stems from her desire to shape him into the happiest and most carefree person he can be. “I just want him to experience as much as he can, and have the confidence to be bold enough to go out and do whatever he wants with his life. I took him down a zipwire the other day in the Caribbean. He loved it, whizzing along the seafront. My mum killed me!”

But it must be hard having a baby in tow, especially when you work in such a male-dominated industry? Not so, according to Natalie, who says that everyone in the “incredible F1 family” pulls together to help with the baby.

“When we fly to and from the races, someone will be carrying his buggy, someone will be carrying him and someone will be feeding him. On our last flight, four or five

different people held him and he was just passed down the plane. I am also lucky to have a really supportive employer, which is very pro-family and supportive of women in the workplace,” she says.

Having ticked off eight different countries before he’s even nine months old, life for Wilf has been one long adventure so far.

But, at home, Natalie insists that things are more relaxed. “I love it when we are all home and I am snuggled up with my boys in bed.

Then we get up, go for a walk in Kew Gardens and have a delicious brunch at High Road House in Chiswick.”

For someone who seems to have the work-life balance sorted against the odds, I wonder if she has any advice for other new mums.

“My advice is don’t listen to advice. You are the only one who knows because [being a mum] is instinctive. Trust your instincts, they are rarely wrong.” bl

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 53

laplanduk.co.uk 0871 620 7063* Swinley Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 8BD * Calls cost 10p per minute from most landlines plus network charges.

AF TER THOUSAN DS OF YOU VOTED IN OU R INAUGU R AL AWAR DS, WE GATH ER TH E BR AIN S BEHIN D TH E BR AN DS YOU LOVE MOST TO CROWN TH E BE ST PRODUC TS IN TH E BUSIN E SS

ur very first Little London Awards took place in early October to recognise the crème de la crème of the baby, children and parenting industry, expertly hosted by model, TV personality, businesswoman and mother-of-two Caprice Bourret.

A glamorous 200-strong crowd descended on The Hurlingham Club for the GapKids-sponsored event to celebrate the launch, find out this year’s winners and enjoy the free-flowing Champagne and delectable canapés.

Set up to champion excellence in every area, the awards featured 30 main categories covering everything from fashion, interiors and health to food, travel and toys. And what made them even more special is that they were voted for by thousands of you, our wonderful readers.

The final four categories: Best New Brand, Best New Product, Best Product and Brand of the Year were decided earlier by our expert panel of judges, who, along with Caprice, included My Baba founder Leonora Bamford, The Bump Class’ Marina Fogle, Rebecca Maberly, of The Doctor and Daughter’s Guide to Pregnancy, Jenny Scott, of Mothers Meeting, and our very own editor Kate Finney.

O

With glasses charged and much excitable chatter about the impending results, everyone gathered around the stage as Caprice announced the winners and runners up for 2015.

Delivering the news in her own inimitable style, she kept the audience amused throughout and presented the awards to the winners with warm hugs and kisses.

And the party didn’t end there. Long after the last award was handed over, everyone was still circulating the room, which was fabulously decked out by Bubblegum Balloons, celebrating, networking and taking photos to mark the occasion.

“We are thrilled that the inaugural Little London Awards have been so popular with readers and businesses alike, and there’s nothing we like more than championing excellence within the industry,” says Kate.

“As a mother myself, I’ve found so much of my interaction with other parents is about swapping advice and ideas, recommending favourite products and sharing new discoveries.

The winners are all at the top of their game, and deserve to be recognised and applauded for their achievement.”

Suspense killing you? Turn over the page now to find out who won what.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 55

LITTLE LONDON AWARDS BEST BABY FASHION BRAND

BEST CHILDREN’S FASHION BRAND

BEST MATERNITY FASHION BRAND

ROCKIN’ BABY

RACHEL RILEY

ISABELLA OLIVER

Rockin’ Baby is renowned for its stunning reversible baby carriers and cheeky childrenswear. Each collection is playfully themed: try a pink printed pyjama set from the Forest Friends range or a retro romper from the Circus collection. The brand also has an impressive ‘charity first’ ethos: for every item sold from its collection, a new item will be donated to mothers and children in need. rockinbaby.com

British luxury brand Rachel Riley draws inspiration from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s to create elegant collections that hark back to the past with a hint of nostalgia. The fine tailoring, beautiful hand smocking, hand embroidery and vintage-inspired prints have made her designs a habitual favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge. And we can see exactly why. rachelriley.co.uk

We have been fans of this brand for a long time now. Having designed maternity wear for 12 years, Isabella Oliver has established its reputation season by season and is leading the way in maternity fashion. Focusing on elegant simplicity and premium fabrics, Isabella Oliver offers expectant mothers the very best in terms of style, fit, quality and comfort. isabellaoliver.com

RUNNERS UP Dotty Dungarees, Rachel Riley

RUNNERS UP iglo+indi, Marie-Chantal

RUNNERS UP Séraphine, Bumpalicious Maternity

BEST INFANT SHOE BRAND

BEST ONLINE RETAILER

BEST BOUTIQUE

CLARKS

JOJO MAMAN BÉBÉ

ILOVEGORGEOUS

As the number one shoe brand in the UK and the fourth largest footwear company on the planet, Clarks doesn’t need an introduction.

Parents all over the globe choose it for their children’s school shoes and commend the quality, reliability, versatility and fit. With width fittings and half-sizes available, you can count on Clarks to look after those little growing feet. clarks.co.uk

JoJo Maman Bébé’s nautical French-style clothes are loved by mummies and children alike. Its maternity collection is not only supremely comfortable but ensures you stay bang on trend with the season’s fashion. And once baby arrives, he or she can be stylishly kitted out with everything from fashion to the latest nursery and practical products. This is the one-stop shop everyone knows and loves. jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Vintage-inspired but with a modern twist, ilovegorgeous designs beautiful clothing and accessories for babies and girls up to aged 13 and is a go-to brand for style-savvy mothers. It was started in 2006 by Lucy Enfield and Sophie Worthington, who wanted to create clothing for their daughters. The brand is stocked across the globe and has two independent boutiques in Primrose Hill and Notting Hill. ilovegorgeous.com

RUNNERS UP Ollipops, Angulus

RUNNERS UP Merci Maman, Great Little Trading Company

RUNNERS UP Rachel Riley, Marie-Chantal

56 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK

LITTLE LONDON AWARDS BEST STROLLER

BEST CAR SEAT BRAND

BEST BABY CARRIER

BUGABOO BEE³

MAXI-COSI

BABYBJÖRN BABY CARRIER ONE

Designed for parents who live life on the fly, the Bugaboo Bee³ features an easy-to-carry lightweight carrycot for exploring the city without disturbing your sleeping baby. The various style options, with different fabrics and colours to choose from, mean you can make it your own. Its unique seat grows with your child, and it is easy to collapse, carry and store in the tightest of spaces. bugaboo.com

Safety is everything when it comes to our kids, something that Maxi-Cosi knows all too well. Its baby, toddler and child car seats are as safe as can be, allowing mums and dads to worry less and focus more on the precious moments of parenthood. And they look good too. Maxi-Cosi’s website also allows you to find which car seat is right for you and your child, with a car seat fitting list and advice tool. maxi-cosi.co.uk

BabyBjörn is on a mission to make parents’ lives easier. Its products are available to buy in more than 50 countries and the Carrier One is a favourite across the globe. Designed for children from newborn to three years old, the carrier is equipped with a sturdy waist belt, padded buckles, form-fitting shoulder straps and four ergonomic carrying positions that you can vary as your child grows. babybjorn.co.uk

RUNNERS UP iCandy Raspberry, Maclaren Quest

RUNNERS UP Britax, Cybex

RUNNERS UP Connecta Baby Carrier, phil&teds Airlight

BEST HIGH CHAIR

BEST BABY ESSENTIAL

BEST BABY MONITOR

STOKKE TRIPP TRAPP

WATERWIPES

TOMY

Stokke’s philosophy is based on a core concept: design products that are in the best interest of the child. The Tripp Trapp® is an ingenious highchair that revolutionised the children’s chair when it was launched in 1972.

It is designed to fit right up to your dining table, bringing your baby into the heart of your family, while the adjustable design allows freedom of movement. stokke.com

Founded by Edward McCloskey after his daughter suffered from sensitive skin and nappy rash, WaterWipes are the only baby wipes made with just two ingredients: water, specially purified and softened, and a tiny drop of grapefruit seed extract. Carefully designed to be gentle on babies’ sensitive skin, the wipes are absolutely chemical-free and are the only wipes to be approved by Allergy UK. waterwipes.com

Tomy is a stalwart of the baby product scene.

Its innovative, high-quality toys and nursery products have been earning parents’ trust since 1924. The company’s extensive range of monitors range from value-for-money, easy-to-use models to high-tech video monitors and movement pads, but all offer parents the peace of mind they crave while their little one sleeps. uk.tomy.com

RUNNERS UP phil&teds Poppy, bloom fresco chrome

RUNNERS UP Dribblebuster, TotsBots

RUNNERS UP Motorola, Babymoov

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 57

BEST INFANT SKINCARE RANGE

BEST PREGNANCY PRODUCT BRAND

BEST INFANT FOOD BRAND

SUDOCREM

VITABIOTICS

ELLA’S KITCHEN

This iconic skincare cream has been a parenthood staple for generations. Created by pharmacist Thomas Smith in 1931, the healing cream is great for treating nappy rash, eczema, pressure sores and other minor skin lesions, and it is suitable for all ages and all skin types.

While it’s perfect for the whole family, it’s as parents’ go-to choice to heal baby’s sore bottom that Sudocrem is most prized. sudocrem.co.uk

A British company committed to health and research, Vitabiotics has manufactured innovative healthcare products for more than 40 years. Its portfolio is at the forefront of scientific developments in key sectors, including women’s health. With pregnancy products that range from support for couples trying to conceive to help keeping mum in tiptop health, Vitabiotics has family life covered. vitabiotics.com

Set up by father Paul Lindley in 2006, Ella’s Kitchen stormed onto the children’s food market with its handy organic pouches.

Making healthy food fun, tasty and cool, the company approaches food from a child’s point of view and really connects with little ones through its flavours, colours and textures, which appeal to all of their senses. Everyone loves Ella’s! ellaskitchen.co.uk

RUNNERS UP Green People, Childs Farm

RUNNERS UP Motherlylove, Secret Saviours

RUNNERS UP Organix, HiPP

BEST FEEDING PRODUCT

BEST CHANGING BAG

BEST NURSERY FURNITURE & INTERIORS

VITAL BABY UNBELIEVABOWL

STORKSAK NOA GREY

SILVER CROSS

For 35 years, Vital Baby has been innovating and developing ideas and products to make life with a little one easier. Its Unbelievabowl sticks to your baby’s highchair or a tabletop with ultimate, super-suction power. Simple and easy to attach, it securely locks in position so your baby will not be able to move the bowl or spill its contents, seriously reducing parents’ mealtime stress. Get one now! vitalbaby.co.uk

Storksak’s formula – a place for everything and everything in its place – has helped it create changing bags that do the job while looking beautiful, too. Melanie Marshall and Suzi Bergman founded the company in 2003 because they did not want to sacrifice style for function. Boasting elegant designs, innovative features and quality detailing, this baby bag brand gets our vote. storksak.com

Silver Cross’ heritage is unsurpassed. Founder William Wilson invented the first baby carriage in 1877 and the company soon gained a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and design, which still holds true today. It still produces the most exclusive baby coaches around and has put the same commitment to style and quality into creating beautiful and elegant nursery furniture, too. silvercrossbaby.com

RUNNERS UP Yumbox, Buddy+Bear

RUNNERS UP Pink Lining, Caboodle Bags

RUNNERS UP Chic Shack, bobo kids

58 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

LITTLE LONDON AWARDS

Caprice was a wonderful host, entertaining the audience in fine style

We toasted the winners

Baby London’s Lesley McDiarmid raises a glass with the iCandy team

Dina Potier and Emily Bradbury from Storksak Our host Caprice Bourret

Jo Steers and Jude Galibardy from Rockin’ Baby

The Hurlingham Club was beautifully decorated

by Bubblegum Balloons

THE AWARDS Glasses were raised to the worthy winners as the wonderful guests mingled, chatted and enjoyed the fabulous party atmosphere

The venue was abuzz with chatter Baby London girls pose for a photo

PHOTOGRAPHY: SAM CHURCHILL

The winners walked away with this stunning trophy

SPONSORED BY Proud winner Rachel Riley MD Paul Dobson with brand manager Chatty Dobson

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 59

BEST BABY TOY OR ACCESSORY

BEST TRAVEL PRODUCT

BEST FAMILY TRAVEL COMPANY

GYMBOREE BUBBLES OOODLES

SPLASH ABOUT HAPPY NAPPY

TOTS TO TRAVEL

Gymboree has been selling high-quality apparel and accessories since 1976, making it one of the oldest companies in its field.

Bubbles Oodles feature five bubble ports, making oodles of bubbles with one blow.

Through play, children develop self-esteem, coordination and social skills, and Bubble Ooodles is a great product to help development. gymboree.com

Splash About has more than 25 years of experience designing and inventing swimming products that are used every day in swimming pools all over the world. Its Happy Nappy is the only swimming nappy insisted upon by most UK swim schools. With its wide range of lovely styles for boys and girls, and tried-andtested leak-free design, the nappies are a great way to stay clean and get noticed in the pool. splashabout.com

Tots to Travel’s approach gives parents with young children and babies peace of mind and a stress-free family holiday experience.

Founded by Wendy Shand after she became frustrated at the lack of safe, family-friendly holiday villas, it aims to safeguard your family by handpicking the very best holiday spots, which are visited by a team to ensure they are what they profess to be. totstotravel.co.uk

RUNNERS UP Bam Bam Baby Gifts, Monkey Monkey

RUNNERS UP Buggysnuggle, BeSafe

RUNNERS UP Baby Friendly Boltholes, Holiday Tots

BEST FAMILY DAY OUT

BEST KIDS’ CLUB, GROUP OR CLASS

BEST BABY PHOTOGRAPHER

LAPLANDUK

MAGGIE & ROSE

SWEET BAMBINI

BY MARIA MURRAY

LaplandUK began in 2006, when husband and wife Mike and Alison Battle developed the innovative idea of recreating Father Christmas’ Arctic homeland here in the UK. The company was born out of their personal frustration at the lack of quality festive experiences on offer to their own children. Now in its ninth year, LaplandUK has captivated thousands of young children with its magical Christmas experience. laplanduk.co.uk

Maggie and Rose wondered why motherhood was always set in depressing surroundings, so decided to change the status quo and create London’s first family members club. The club is a magical place for families to hang out, where children can make and play. With clubs in Kensington and Chiswick, as well as nursery and pre-nursery, Maggie & Rose also caters for parties and private events. maggieandrose.com

Sweet Bambini is the home of high-end newborn and maternity photography. It is run by Maria Murray, who believes beautiful photography is something that becomes even more valuable with time. The images are a wonderful legacy to leave for your children.

Newborn babies have a beautiful gentleness about them and Maria loves to capture those unique first days of life. sweetbambini.co.uk

RUNNERS UP Marwell Zoo, Gambado

RUNNERS UP Razzamataz, Little London Music School

RUNNERS UP Helen Bartlett Photography, WhipperSNAPS

60 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: CAROLINE TRUE, ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK

LITTLE LONDON AWARDS

LITTLE LONDON AWARDS BEST CHILDREN’S TOY OR ACCESSORY

BEST PRIVATE MATERNITY PROVIDER

BEST HEALTHCARE PRODUCT

MINI MICRO SCOOTER

THE PORTLAND HOSPITAL

NELSONS TEETHA TEETHING GRANULES

Swiss designed and engineered, Micro Scooters are a way to give your little ones freedom. Anna Gibson and Phillipa Gogarty saw the scooter in a park and teamed up with Micro in 2004 to bring the product to the UK. Now the Mini Micro Scooter offers even the youngest children the chance to whizz about.

What little Londoner could do without them? micro-scooters.co.uk

The Portland Hospital for Women and Children is the only private hospital in the UK dedicated to the healthcare of women and children. Its highly skilled and experienced team of more than 200 leading consultants, alongside midwives, nursing staff and outstanding facilities, means its patients receive the finest healthcare. theportlandhospital.com

Teething can be a tricky time, particularly for first-time parents. But the winner of our Best Healthcare Product category can help.

Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules are a homeopathic remedy specially formulated for the soothing and calming relief of the symptoms of teething and comes ready-dosed in a convenient granule form. nelsonsnaturalworld.com

RUNNERS UP FirstBIKE – Balance Bikes, Great Little Trading Company Play Shop & Theatre

RUNNERS UP Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, The Parent and Baby Coach

RUNNERS UP Doctor Care Anywhere, Higher Nature Kids Smart Focus

BEST TRAVEL SYSTEM

BEST EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE

BEST PARENTING CLASS

ICANDY PEACH 3

HIP HOP HEN APP

FIRST AID FOR LIFE

Over its 82-year history, iCandy has come to represent an unsurpassable level of quality and world-class engineering when it comes to pushchairs. British craftmanship at its best, the third generation model of its top-notch travel system boasts impeccable curves and innovative design to ensure it is the ultimate stroller on the market. icandyworld.com

Our Best Educational Resource winner was created by teachers Sophie Carter and Daisy Harrison, who have a passion for fun learning.

The Hip Hop Hen app introduces phonics to two to four year olds through beautiful pages and charming songs. The app has won multiple awards, including being shortlisted for the App Store’s Best Apps of 2014. hiphophen.com

First Aid for Life provides multi-award winning training tailored to your needs. Its trainers are highly experienced medical and emergency services professionals who will run a bespoke course at a time and place to suit you.

Individuals can also join its courses in Balham.

It’s the leading independent provider of First Aid training in Greater London, so there is nowhere better to empower yourself. onlinefirstaid.com

RUNNERS UP Mamas & Papas Chestnut Tweed Urbo2, Silver Cross Surf 2

RUNNERS UP TheSchoolRun, Learning Resources – Smart Snacks Puzzle Pies

RUNNERS UP Bumps & Burpees at Lomax, MamaBabyBliss

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 61

LITTLE LONDON AWARDS

THE JUDGES

BEST NEW BRAND

BEST NEW PRODUCT

TOBIAS AND THE BEAR

SUPERLOVE MERINO SLEEP BAG

Putting it to the test… four categories were voted for by our panel of six super judges Our panel met at Bluebird on King’s Road to discuss the merits of the nominees. My Baba founder Leonora Bamford, The Bump Class’ Marina Fogle and Rebecca Maberly, of The Doctor and Daughter’s Guide to Pregnancy, joined model and TV personality Caprice Bourret, Jenny Scott, of Mothers Meeting, and Baby London’s very own Kate Finney.

The judges, who are all mothers, talked, touched and tried out the products before finally picking their winners in the four main categories: Best New Brand, Best New Product, Best Product and Brand of the Year.

Editor, Kate, brought along her five-week old baby to help with the testing

Our judges, from left to right: Leonora Bamford, Kate Finney, Marina Fogle, Rebecca Maberly, Jenny Scott and Caprice Bourret

62 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

It all started with a love of leggings at Tobias and the Bear. Designed and made in Britain from pure cotton, its unique printed clothing is comfy and cool, and has been a massive hit with parents looking for something a bit different for their children to wear. With tops and bedding now added to the range, your little ones can even look stylish while they are asleep. tobiasandthebear.com

An adventurous brand for adventurous little people, Superlove creates superfine merino clothing and sleeping bag for babies, toddlers and children up to aged six in charming prints and classic block colours. Sourced from the best quality merino wool in the world, its signature fabric is perfect for our cool climate and ethical in every way. What’s not to (super)love? superlovemerino.com

RUNNERS UP Dotty Dungarees, iglo+indi

RUNNERS UP Joolz Geo, Moba Moses Basket

BEST PRODUCT

BRAND OF THE YEAR

SMALLS MERINO BODYWEAR

PINK LINING

Started by two Kiwi mothers when they found there was a lack of merino clothing on the market for older kids, Smalls offers everyday luxe merino loungewear and activewear for kids from two to 12. The range, which is made in Britain, looks every bit as good as it feels and has the magical powers of merino we have come to expect. Stylish wardrobe staples we can’t get enough of! lovemysmalls.com

Designer Charlotte Pearl set out to make herself a bag. Little did she know that, inspired by motherhood and her growing family, the handbag would evolve into a brand of best-selling changing bags. Charlotte and her husband, Rufus, now run Pink Lining while their growing family provides inspiration for designs and products. With playful prints and practical styles, Pink Lining is designed for family life. pinklining.com

RUNNERS UP Close Parent Caboo+ Organic Carrier, Mutsy Igo

RUNNERS UP Micro Scooters, Sunuva

Bugaboo by Diesel Denim is available as Bugaboo Buffalo, Bugaboo Donkey Tailored Fabric Set and Bag.

THIS PAGE Leander wears Long Sleeve Kimono Body Suit, £19, aden + anais. Boo Baby Booties, £14.99, Château de Sable. Cashmere Bonnet with Pom Pom, £28, Olivier Baby and Kids.

RIGHT PAGE Skye wears Baby Chunky Cardi, £35, ilovegorgeous. Cashmere Hand Knitted Romper, £49, Olivier Baby and Kids. Lulu Body, £18, Roly Pony at Little Giants.

WONDERFUL

WOOL PHOTOGR APHER : KEN COPSEY ST YLIST: COURTNEY ROBINSON

THIS PAGE Chase wears Stripe Kimono Romper, £26, aden + anais.

Cashmere Cardigan With Star, from £54, Olivier Baby and Kids.

LEFT PAGE Edward wears Corduroy Dungarees, £41, Dotty Dungarees.

St Malo Beige Stripes Cashmere Jumper, £45, Mandarine Coco.

Cream Ferrer Hat, £37, Stella McCartney. Rock Ewe Rocking Sheep, £348, Rowen & Wren.

THIS PAGE Stanley wears Suspender Wool Short, £79, Marie-Chantal. Penglais Baby Jumper, £69, Caramel Baby & Child. Pale Felt Clouds, from £9.95, Pygmy Cloud.

THIS PAGE Skye wears Hare Jumpsuit, €49, Bobo Choses. Cashmere Cardigan, from £54, Olivier Baby and Kids. Hand Knitted Wolly Pigs, £48 each, PiggyKnits.

THIS PAGE Cassius wears Cashmere Diagonal Stitch Hooded Cardigan, from £59, Olivier Baby and Kids.

Twinkle Star Tunic Top, £17, aden + anais. Clouds Trousers, €49, Bobo Choses.

RIGHT PAGE Cairodean wears Clouds Baby Jumper, €59, Bobo Choses.

Eco-wool Sweater, €58, Guðrun & Guðrun. Pull On Cord Trouser, £59, Marie-Chantal.

THIS PAGE Poppy wears Cat Sweater, £135, Marie-Chantal. Cat Embroidered Body Suit, £39, Marie-Chantal.

Peony Snowflake Leggings, £55, Stella McCartney.

RIGHT PAGE Edward wears Horses Jumpsuit, €49, Bobo Choses. Cashmere Cardigan, from €172.38, Bonpoint.

Baby Bobbl Hat, £45, Bobbl.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: GEORGIA SHANE STYLIST’S ASSISTANTS: NICOLA LEEDING AND KATIE SYKES LOOP LONDON FOR SUPPLYING THE WOOL MODELS: CAIRODEAN, CASSIUS, CHASE, EDWARD, LEANDER, POPPY, SKYE, STANLEY MODEL AGENCIES: BONNIE & BETTY, URBAN ANGELS, BRUCE & BROWN, TINY ANGELS, BABY GRACE

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Make your own toy with this cute crochet sheep kit

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SHOP THE SHOOT 7

Fend off the winter chills with our wonderful wool edit

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1. Peony All-in-One £133, stellamccartney.com 2. Cable Knit One-piece £19.95, gap.co.uk 3. Fluffy Cardigan £11 to £12, next.co.uk 4. Bobble Hat £5.99, hm.com 5. Sheep £18, thetoftalpacashop.co.uk 6. Cashmere Jacket £48.95, thebonniemob.com 7. Pink Baby Knit Cardigan £10, bhs.co.uk 8. Cotton Leggings £9, honeyandarchie.com 9. Baby Blanket £29.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk 10. Dungarees £17.99, zara.com 11. Cotton Cardigan £12, marksandspencer.com 12. Unisex Star Sleepsuit £12, matalan.co.uk 13. Knitted Teal Cardigan £12 to £13, mothercare.com 14. Bobble Booties £5.99, hm.com

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The Online Kids Department Store for 0-16 year-olds.

A unique selection of designers from all around the world and many exclusives.

Over 450 designer brands and 15,000 items of fashion, furniture, decorations and toys. www.smallable.com

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Soft super absorbent Turkish towels

Fabulous Footmuffs & Buggy Liners in retro, vintage and classic designs.

Perfect for little beach babes

Beautiful Turkish Hammam towels for bathtime, beachtime and pooltime.

Get 20% off Hippychick Hammam Towels when quoting BABMAY at the checkout.

(Offer ends 30/09/2015)

76 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

www.bettybramble.co.uk | hello@bettybramble.co.uk

TRENDS

A GOOD YARN WHATEVER TH E SE ASON , M ERIN O IS TH E U LTIMATE IN COM FORT FOR YOU R BABY. Lily Smith PICKS TH E BR AN DS CHAM PIONING THIS WON DER WOOL

he British weather is notoriously unpredictable, mild one day and freezing the next. Such changeable conditions can be a worry when it comes to looking after your little ones.

Cue merino wool: a miracle, all-natural material that has an unparalleled ability to breathe and regulate body temperature, keeping little bodies snug in the cold and cool when temperatures rise.

This wonder wool comes from the merino sheep, an ancient breed that has inhabited some of the most extreme environments on earth. Over hundreds of years, its fleece has adapted to these extremes in temperature by producing very fine fibres.

And it is this super softness that makes merino products so deliciously cosy and comfortable for babies to wear. It is also hypoallergenic and naturally antibacterial, making it safe and soothing for babies with eczema, allergies and sensitive skin.

With all these scientifically proven benefits, it is no surprise that merino wool has become such a hit with parents – and babies – all around the world.

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As well as being cosy, merino wool is hypoallergenic and antibacterial

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 77

TRENDS

BAMBINO MERINO When founder Rochelle Milligan gave birth prematurely, she found merino did wonders for her baby’s delicate skin. Ten years on, Bambino Merino has provided thousands of babies – and their parents – with a more restful night’s sleep with its lovely sleeping bags, swaddles and pyjamas, which come in pinks, blues, whites and browns, and in simple stripe designs. Its sleeping bags have also been cleverly designed to grow with your baby, eliminating the need to buy bigger sizes. bambinomerino.com

CAMBRIDGE BABY

Cambridge Baby swears by the power of the wonder wool and offers pretty much anything and everything in merino: thermals, sleepwear, shoes, jackets and even dungarees.

It also has a collection of special clothing for eczema-prone skin and premature babies, which celebrates merino’s antibacterial and temperature-regulating qualities. cambridgebaby.co.uk

Wonderful merino wool is super soft against baby’s skin so she is sure to be comfortable

MERINO KIDS

New Zealand company Merino Kids™ is the go-to brand for merino sleepwear for babies and toddlers. For more than 10 years, its 100% natural products have helped families sleep safely and better. Its range, including the award-winning Cocooi™ Swaddle and Go Go Bag™ sleep bag, is made from the world’s finest merino wool in the prettiest pastel colours.

Think snuggly sleepsuits, perfect pyjamas and cuddlesome cardigans. merinokids.co.uk

SMALLS

Smalls was created by two Kiwi mums who found most merino pieces were aimed at newborns. They wanted to provide the next step in merino wear for when babies are a bit bigger. They use simple designs with wool from sheep that graze New Zealand’s beautiful Southern Alps. Tried and tested by their children, the collections include styles in baby pinks, duck-egg blues and ashy greys.

Smalls creates a newfound appreciation for humble thermals. lovemysmalls.com

78 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

TRENDS

LANA BAMBINI

The family who runs Lana Bambini understands that natural materials are best for little ones and makes all its garments from lovely natural, organic fibres with no nasties or synthetics. Its long-sleeved fine merino and silk baby tops are snug as thermal base layers in winter and light and airy as breathable tops in summer. They come in lime greens, ruby reds and royal blues your little one will love. lanabambini.co.uk

MAMAOWL

Mama Owl ensures style is not substituted for quality with intricate designs in sizes from newborn to aged eight. Danish mother Anna Kari wanted to make merino wool readily available in the UK, creating stylish outfits that look and feel good. We love the pistachiogreen chunky knits, hand-knitted zig-zag cardigans and popcorn bobble vests that help little ones keep warm, but look cool. mamaowl.net

LITTLE FLOCK OF HORRORS New Zealand childrenswear brand Little Flock of Horrors is Merino Kids’ cheeky older sister.

It aims to fuse fashion and attitude to create attire that is edgy, adventurous and individual.

Made for newborns and children up to aged nine, its collections are sassier, inspired by troublesome ‘little monsters’ but still made from ‘the best fabric on earth for kids’ – superfine merino wool. littleflockofhorrors.co.uk

SUPERLOVE MERINO Super in both name and nature, Superlove puts quality at the heart of its brand. Made from the very finest merino wool, which is meticulously sourced from around the world, its products range from sleeping bags and bodysuits to separate thermal layer sets and accessories in classic block colours or charming patterns. The organic merino booties are particularly adorable. superlovemerino.com

The finest merino wool is meticulously sourced from around the world

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 79

PARTY TIME

Baby’s First Christmas Decoration £4, marksandspencer.com Mini Santa Hats £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

My First Christmas Bauble £3, johnlewis.com

Felt Reindeer Tree Decoration £4.50, johnlewis.com

“Personalised baubles are a beautiful memento, and something to pass on when they grow up.”

Personalised Bone China Bauble £9.99, gettingpersonal.co.uk

Christmas Embroidered Baby Sleepsuit £16, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

My Christmas Bear £10, mamasandpapas.com

CAROLE’S TOP TIP “Relax and enjoy baby’s first Christmas. They won’t remember it, but you’ll have fond memories.”

Waiting for Santa Mini Plastic Bottles £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

Waiting for Santa Cup with Hat Wrap £3.29, partypieces.co.uk

Noel Light With Led Lights £14.99, partypieces.co.uk

Waiting for Santa Paper Plates £3.99, partypieces.co.uk Christmas Carrot Wrapping Paper £4.75, notonthehighstreet.com

“I love these adorable reindeer leggings, perfect for a cosy Christmas morning.”

Reindeer Leggings £10, bladeandrose.co.uk 80 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Christmas Pudding Mittens £10, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

PARTY TIME

“These charming festive character cups are just perfect for children’s Christmas parties!”

Santa and Reindeer Cups £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

Santa and Reindeer Large Christmas Crackers £14.99, partypieces.co.uk

ty and par g editor n ti u n ib to tr iddle Our con Carole M specialist

Prancing Reindeers Cookie Cutters £3.98, lakeland.co.uk

CHRISTMAS with

Carole Middleton ENJOY BABY ’S FIR ST CH RISTMAS WITH TH E FIN E ST FE STIVE TR E ATS

Baby’s First Christmas Snow Globe Jolly Father Christmas Hanging Advent Calendar £17.99, partypieces.co.uk

Santa Bib with Velcro £1.49, partypieces.co.uk

£11.50, bundlesofjoy-shopping.co.uk

Reindeer Booties £25, my1styears.com Santa Napkins £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

Reindeer Napkins £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

Large Santa Sack £8.99, partypieces.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 81

Give them the best, even when you’re apart.

The flexible and efficient Medela Swing pump, feel happy and confident in your moments apart.

50 years of breastfeeding innovation. www.medela.com/swing

Medela Swing

PUMP MORE MILK IN LESS TIME, THANKS TO OUR 2-PHASE EXPRESSION TECHNOLOGY *Journal of Human Lactation 18 (4) 2002 “Effect of Vacuum Profile on Breast Milk Expression Using an Electric Breast Pump”

FASHION FASHION

DRESS the PART IF YOU R SEN SE OF ST YLE HAS GON E OUT OF TH E WIN DOW DU RING PR EGNANC Y, Elaine Lloyd-Jones OFFER S SOM E A-LIST IN SPIR ATION TO GE T YOU BACK ON TR ACK THIS PART Y SE ASON 3 1

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5 Rosamund Pike went for nude tones and clean lines

PHOTOGRAPHY: CORBIS

Channel pared-back chic Actress and Oxford University English graduate Rosamund Pike was pregnant with her second child while promoting last year’s hit film, Gone Girl. With countless red carpet appearances on the agenda, she had plenty of opportunity to fine tune her pregnancy style. Working with her best asset – her legs – she opted for trapeze-shaped mini dresses in an elegant colour palette of neutrals with the occasional black showstopper. She accessorised with delicate heels,

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swing coats and Hollywood-worthy sunglasses, perfect for hiding signs of fatigue. For an appearance on The Today Show, she went for a top-to-toe nude look with a shift by Louis Vuitton, coat by Marni and matching pumps – a winning look. Although she favoured luxury designers, her choices were always pared-back and focused on one colour. The style is achievable for most, making her the perfect style pin-up for the forthcoming party season.

1 Mulberry Mini Lily Shoulder Bag £350, harrods.com 2 Owen Cape £249, hobbs.co.uk 3 T by Alexander Wang Shift Dress £337, nineinthemirror.com 4 Valentino Ruffle Dress £1,725, nineinthemirror.com 5 Tide Sling Backs £425, jimmychoo.com 6 Atlantis Flint Drop Earrings £145, monicavinader.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 83

FASHION

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Blake’s pregnancy style choices reflected her interest in a chic yet homely lifestyle

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Blake Lively opted to accentuate her pregnancy

Blake Lively has been a style heroine since the first episode of Gossip Girl way back when. Where she’s really excelled is in her effortlessly stylish transition to motherhood. Favouring a low-key homely lifestyle – Martha Stewart is a friend and neighbour – when Blake’s not cooking up a culinary storm, she’s serving a banquet of fashion inspiration. Opting to keep her pregnancy under wraps until the second trimester, Blake’s official announcement came via her website,

Preserve, where she posted a picture of herself cradling her bump, dressed in a stunning printed top and skirt by lifestyle brand Sam & Lavi. It was then our admiration of her pregnancy style began. By day, she displayed a winning mixture of ponchos, capes, jeans and over-sized totes, never shying away from print or colour. For formal occasions, she upped the ante in fitted gowns – all of which seemed designed to show off her bump and celebrate her pregnancy.

1 Coast Luella Faux Fur Scarf £49, houseoffraser.co.uk 2 Diane Von Furstenberg Tallulah Wrap Dress £400, selfridges.com 3 Missoni Erica Lamé Dress £1,130, nineinthemirror.com 4 Felt Trilby £75, brora.co.uk 5 Cape £65, jojomamanbebe.co.uk 6 Keri Suede Knee High Boot £325, lkbennett.com

84 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: CORBIS

Celebrate Your Bump

FASHION 4 3

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Keira Knightley sported pretty, feminine patterns

PHOTOGRAPHY: PRESS ASSOCIATION

Embrace Femininity Keira Knightley’s pregnancy style was unabashedly feminine. From her first public appearance as an expectant mother in an Erdem monochrome floral dress, the actress continued to revel in the beauty of her pregnancy with a soft colour palette, delicate floral prints and butterfly motif dresses. As well as a lot of stand-out Chanel – for whom she is the face of Coco Mademoiselle – a tiered, ruffled Erdem dress and a poetic, floral floor-sweeping Valentino couture gown

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also proved winners on the red carpet. More often than not, she opted for below-the-knee options and favoured a light, loose and comfortable silhouette. Of course, there were custom-made pieces and plenty of pricey couture numbers but the essence of Keira’s style was elegant, modern and romantic. She managed to breeze through a slew of red carpet events while looking incredible and comfortable. And there was nothing too try-hard about her look, either.

1 Tilda Jacket £109, monsoon.co.uk 2 Grace Bra and Shorts £60, lornadrew.com 3 Glitter Sandal £110, karenmillen.com 4 Flip Bag £2,205 chanel.com 5 Floral Dress £46, topshop.com 6 Bird Dress £65, asos.com 7 Chanel Coco Mademoiselle £155, boots.com 8 Swallow and Star Brooch £12, accessorize.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 85

FASHION Make a red carpetworthy entrance in this metallic dress

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Although she keeps a relatively low profile, actress and model Jaime King has just navigated her way through her second pregnancy with enviable style. She believes in the beauty and femininity of pregnancy, and was keen to show off her bump. While Jaime’s everyday pieces included pretty floral dresses and loafers or maternity jeans and cool knits, it was her after-dark dressing that cemented her place as a stylish, modern mum. With a schedule that involved Fashion Week

shows and parties, along with red carpet shindigs such as the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, Jaime needed an equally high-profile maternity wardrobe. Some of our favourite looks included a gold Altuzarra gown with a plunging neckline and a red wool Dior dress, which she teamed with a sequined turtleneck and black patent leather over-the-knee boots. Whatever the occasion, Jaime opted for fashion-forward choices that accentuated her pregnancy.

1 Wrap Coat £350, jigsaw-online.com 2 Bodycon Dress £45, asos.com 3 Kenneth Jay Lane Earrings £45, net-a-porter.com 4 Ghillie Lace Up Shoes £62, topshop.com 5 Mamalicious Veronica Dress £39, johnlewis.com 6 Lola Tote Bag £245 russellandbromley.co.uk 7 Lola Rose Ring £50, harveynichols.com

86 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: CORBIS

Stay Fashion Forward

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 • M A R NI • MISSONI • SANDRO • VA LENTINO • A ND MANY MO RE

CHRISTMAS GIFT PROMOTION

PILLOW AND ROOM SPRAY

MERINO BABY SLEEP BAG

BUMP, BABY AND BEYOND

Help baby drift off to sleepy land with natural, gently scented pillow and room mist.

In a festive stripe, this merino sleep bag regulates body temperature naturally for safe sleep.

This Tara Lee DVD boxset includes yoga for pregnancy, birth and the first year of motherhood.

£12.99, loveboo.com

£64.95, bambinomerino.com

£24.99, amazon.co.uk

PENNY LANE BOOTIES

HOBO ANGEL CHANGING BAG

WOODEN TRAIN TOOLKIT

Made from genuine soft leather for durable and lasting comfort, babies will adore these booties.

Includes change mat, accessories bag and integrated insulated bottle compartment for three bottles.

Pull along and take apart. This can be personalised to make a beautiful keepsake.

£13, mikkoandmal.com

£79.95, isoki.co.uk

£20, meenymineymo.com

PERSONALISED BRACELET

PRAM COAT

EARLY YEARS

This beautiful leather wrap bracelet from Merci Maman is the perfect personalised gift for mum.

Baby will look adorable in this contemporary cashmere pram coat by Madeleine Thompson.

An illustrated gift with a journal to capture the first five years of life, plus a handy notebook.

£59, mercimamanboutique.com

£220, bluealmonds.co.uk

£20, journalsofalifetime.com

SIDNEY SCHOOL BUS

NATALIE RAGDOLL SET

BABYBJÖRN ONE BABY CARRIER

This friction-powered shape-sorting bus is perfect for sensory stimulation and fine motor skills.

Suitable from birth, and made from 100% naturally coloured organic cotton. Babies will love Natalie.

This multifunctional carrier will take you and your child through from birth right up to three years.

£12.99, wowtoys.com

£40, twitter.com/NPBalham

£119.95, johnlewis.com

88 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT PROMOTION

DASCHUND TWO PIECE

CABLEKNIT BLANKET

PINK MACARON ONESIE DRESS

A traditional two-piece set with a touch of festive style by beautiful Italian brand Baby Graziella.

Beautifully presented in its own suitcase, the lambswool blanket is perfect all year round.

Super soft, super sweet. Made from 100% organic cotton printed with eco-friendly water-based ink.

£135, harrods.com

£80, icandyworld.com

£32.50, remyroo.co.uk

We bring you the very best presents to put under the Christmas tree

GIFTS FOR… BIBETTA REINDEER ULTRABIB™ Made with soft, stretchy neoprene, the Christmas Reindeer UltraBib™ has a clever folding pocket too.

£6.95, bibetta.com

BABY MOCCASINS Leather leopard-print moccasins with a bow-tied lace and fringy detail. Made in Spain by Pepa & Co.

£24, pepaandcompany.com

Baby & you A new arrival makes the festive season extra special and these glorious products will help to make it one you truly remember

LONG SLEEVE ONESIE

PRIAM CHANGING BAG

MESSAGES FOR YOU

This 50% bamboo, 50% cotton kimono-style onesie wraps baby in total comfort.

With bags of style, this has an impressive nine internal pockets and all the essentials.

An illustrated keepsake journal to hold treasured messages and moments for a precious child.

£20, rubyrabbit.co.uk

£130, cybex-online.com

£20, journalsofalifetime.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 89

CHRISTMAS GIFT PROMOTION

FARMYARD HEADS AND TAILS

TIDLO GARAGE

CORDY ROY PENGUIN

A fun first matching activity that develops into a game as children grow in confidence and ability.

A colourful wooden garage by John Crane Ltd with everything your little one needs to get from a to b.

Waddling in from the wind and snow, everyone wants to cuddle up to this cool bird.

£7.50, orchardtoys.com

£29.99, gulliverstoys.co.uk

£12, jellycat.com

WINTER ROCKING HORSE

MASTERKIDZ MY FIRST CAMERA

FAIRY COTTAGE PLAYHOUSE

This rocking horse from Mamas & Papas will look perfect next to the tree on Christmas morning.

This adorable wooden toy features a kaleidoscope, a shutter button and adjustable flashlight.

Beautifully embroidered with fairies, flowers and butterflies – inspire hours of creative play!

£49.95 Bentalls Kingston, fenwick.co.uk

£14.75, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

From £200, wingreen.co.uk

PETER RABBIT PUZZLE TRAIN

FAIRY HOUSE

PETITE ALBION TURNUP HAT

Little ones will love taking apart and rebuilding this beautifully crafted wooden train.

This Oskar & Ellen fairy house includes two fairies, a pink carriage, unicorn and more!

Super cosy dark-blue turnup hat with a contrasting mauve pom-pom for toddlers.

£27.99, lucyandbelle.com

£26.99, borngifted.co.uk

£45, bubblechops.com

FLORAL PUSH-ALONG PRAM

FLIP ‘N’ TIP FRED

KATHE KRUSE DOLL

Adorable painted pram with floral canopy and matching blanket and pillow.

This friction-powered recycling truck is designed for pre-schoolers – great for social interaction play.

Mini Minouche Fritzi by Kathe Kruse is the perfect size for girls of 18 months to cradle in their arms.

£49, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

£29.99, wowtoys.com

£43.99, petalinadolls.co.uk

90 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT PROMOTION

KISSY KISSY TWO-PIECE SET

CLICK BLOCKS

MINI REINDEER + SLEIGH

Look the part… a seasonal two piece with velour dungarees and white body with peter pan collar.

A collection of building blocks sized for little hands to grasp and stack on top of each other.

This eco-friendly push toy has an easy-grip, built-in handle – perfect for little hands!

£69.95, harrods.com

£29.95, bigjigstoys.co.uk

£112, bluealmonds.com

MINI BIKE TRIKES Suitable for 18 months-plus, this converts from a three-wheel trike to a two-wheel bike!

£44.99, nickotoys.co.uk

GIFTS FOR…

Toddlers If your little ones are aware of what a visit from Father Christmas means, these top toys are sure to light up their faces with delight on the big day

SPINNING TOP Made from beech and decorated by hand, this traditional toy is a beautiful addition to a nursery.

£9, ifeelsmug.com

DONNA WILSON FRUIT

GINGERBREAD STOCKING

DINO TRAIN SET

Invite these knitted lambswool fruit friends into your home.

This Swedish-designed Oskar & Ellen Gingerbread Stocking will hang with pride.

In a colourful prehistoric landscape, enjoy a train, volcano tunnel and a group of wooden dinosaurs.

From £13.75 each, ifeelsmug.com

£28, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

£44.99, bigjigstoys.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 91

CHRISTMAS GIFT PROMOTION

PLAY TABLE AND RAILWAY SET

PINK FLORAL WIGWAM

PENGUINS KITBAG

Let imaginations run wild with this fantastic railway set from the wooden toy masterminds Brio.

Perfect for indoor and outdoor play, this pretty canvas wigwam is easy to assemble and fold away.

A roomy drawstring bag in our new Penguins print!

Ideal for swimming and sports kit.

£458, harrods.com

£79, ellajames.co.uk

£15.95, tyrrellkatz.co.uk

CAFÉ MACHINE

MIX AND MATCH GAME

HOLLY DOLL’S PRAM

Enjoy delicious coffee with this Honeybake Café Machine from Le Toy Van.

A fantastic matching game using Ingela P Arrhenius’ retro Scandinavian illustrations.

This Silver Cross pram comes complete with a red changing bag and traditional rag doll.

£29.95, harrods.com

£12, archiesboutique.com

£400, silvercrossbaby.com

DINOSAUR TANK TOP

LYNTON KITCHEN

SIROCCO

A dinosaur jacquard of classic carnivore and herbivores, in jungle tones of blues and greens.

A retro-styled wooden toy kitchen, perfect for girls and boys.

An adorably soft cuddle ‘n’ dry cotton terry shirt, ideal for holidaying or wrapping up after bath time.

£35, jumpjunior.co.uk

£110, jammtoys.com

£45, mabes.com

FLATCAT CUSHION

JESSICA DOLL

ICE HAPPY

Designed by Donna Wilson and made of 100% lambswool and knitted in Scotland. Cute!

Great for girls from age five to dress up, style their hair or snuggle up with.

Stand out from the crowd with Ice Watch’s range of ICE Happy watches for kids.

£72.50, ifeelsmug.com

£54.99, petalinadolls.co.uk

£46, ice-watch.com

92 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT PROMOTION

TARTAN SHIRT

HAPE GUITAR

LITTLE WARDROBE SUITCASE

Let mini chaps look the part this winter with this gorgeous long-sleeved shirt from Rachel Riley.

For little budding musicians aged four-plus, this blue guitar will make their Christmas.

Delightful imaginative fun with Moulin Roty’s play set featuring Nini Mouse and Sylvain Rabbit.

£55, rachelriley.co.uk

£52.65, en.smallable.com

£49, giftsforlittleones.com

GIFTS FOR… ICE CREAM CORNER This creative game is made from pinewood and has five refreshing flavours and a spoon. Delicious!

¤69.95, smallable.com

GOURMET KITCHEN SET

Little people

Every child is unique but we’re sure we’ve found something to suit every taste, from budding chefs to wannabe rock stars

This fabulous Our Generation doll’s kitchen is packed with essentials to whip up fantastic meals.

£79.99, amazon.co.uk

PINK ARCHED IRISH FAIRY DOOR

FLORAL COMBI PRAM

LIGHT BLUE BILIBO TOY

Invite a fairy into your home! When the key disappears, your fairy has moved in.

We love this floral pram by La Nina, which can be used in three modes with an adjustable handle.

An award-winning toy, the Bilibo is ideal for promoting creativity and imaginative play.

£19.99, theirishfairydoorcompany.com

£99.99, petalinadolls.co.uk

£19.99, toyella.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 93

CHRISTMAS GIFT PROMOTION

EXCLUSIVE CHRISTMAS DISCOUNTS

10% OFF

10% OFF

available in store at: 78 Balham High Road, London SW12 9AG

available online at: petalinadolls.co.uk

NATURES PUREST BALHAM

PETALINA

CODE: SHOW THIS VOUCHER IN STORE

CODE: DollyXmas

VALID UNTIL: 24 DECEMBER 2015

VALID UNTIL: 20 DECEMBER 2015

T&CS: 10% DISCOUNT ON ALL ITEMS EXCEPT FOR NURSERY FURNITURE. DISCOUNT IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS IN STORE 78 BALHAM HIGH ROAD, LONDON, SW12 9AG. PLEASE HAND IN THE VOUCHER TO RECEIVE YOUR DISCOUNT. OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY.

T&CS: MINIMUM SPEND ON ORDERS IS £30.

10% OFF

15% OFF

available online at: giftsforlittleones.com

available online at: nickotoys.co.uk

GIFTS FOR LITTLE ONES

NICKO TOYS

code: XMAS2015

code: LONDON2015

VALID UNTIL: 24 DECEMBER 2015

VALID UNTIL: 24 DECEMBER 2015

T&CS: THIS OFFER CAN BE USED MULTIPLE TIMES ONLINE. VOUCHER CODE MUST BE ENTERED AT THE CHECKOUT TO RECEIVE THE DISCOUNT AND IS VALID UNTIL 24 DECEMBER 2015. DISCOUNT ONLY APPLIES TO THE ORDER SUBTOTAL AND THEREFORE EXCLUDES SHIPPING CHARGES.

T&CS: THIS OFFER IS AVAILABLE ACROSS THE WHOLE NICKO TOYS RANGE AND CAN BE USED MULTIPLE TIMES ONLINE. VOUCHER CODE MUST BE ENTERED AT THE CHECKOUT TO RECEIVE THE DISCOUNT AND IS VALID UNTIL 24 DECEMBER 2015.

20% OFF

10% OFF

available online at mabes.com

available online at: meenymineymo.com

MINI MABES

MEENYMINEYMO

code: LITTLEXMAS20

code: XMAS2015

VALID UNTIL: 24 DECEMBER 2015

VALID UNTIL: 24 DECEMBER 2015

T&CS: THIS OFFER CAN BE USED MULTIPLE TIMES ONLINE. VOUCHER CODE MUST BE ENTERED AT THE CHECKOUT TO RECEIVE THE DISCOUNT AND IS VALID UNTIL 24 DECEMBER 2015. DISCOUNT ONLY APPLIES TO THE ORDER SUBTOTAL AND THEREFORE EXCLUDES SHIPPING CHARGES.

T&CS: VOUCHER CAN BE USED ACROSS THE WEBSITE.

20% OFF

£5 OFF

available online at: camomile.london

available online at: lucyandbelle.com

NURSERY BEDDING AT CAMOMILE

LUCY AND BELLE

code: NURSERYOFFER

code: welcome

VALID UNTIL: 19 NOVEMBER 2015

VALID UNTIL: 24 DECEMBER 2015

T&CS: 20% OFF SELECTED NURSERY BEDDING BY ENTERING CODE AT CHECKOUT. CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS. OFFER EXCLUDES DUVET COVERS, PILLOWCASES, FURNITURE AND LIMITED EDITION PRODUCTS.

T&CS: NEW CUSTOMERS CAN ENJOY £5 OFF THEIR FIRST ORDER WHEN QUOTING THE CODE ABOVE.

94 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

“The very idea that the magical can bring parent and child together in a play situation is wonderful,�

Dr Amanda Gummer, psychologist and founder fundamentallychildren.com.

Discover our range of doors and accessories at www.theirishfairydoorcompany.com

theirishfairydoorcompany

irishfairydoor

@irishfairydoor

One simple system.

Endless adventures.

Ready for the first ride home and rearward or forward facing up to the first day of school — the all new i-AnchorSafe™ System meets the newest i-Size standard and goes far beyond.

With first ever standardised side impact testing to new i-Size regulations, along with exclusive Intelli-Fit™ memory foam, the i-AnchorSafe System offers better head, neck and all over protection for even the tiniest riders.

i-Gemm™ infant seat ECE R129/00

i-Anchor® child seat ECE R129/00

gemm™ and juva™ infant seats ECE R44/04

suitable from birth rearward or forward to approx. 4 years i-AnchorFIX® base

Learn more at askforisize.com Available from Babies R Us, Kiddicare, Mamas & Papas, Mothercare and all good independent nursery retailers

REVIEWS

TOTGEAR

IN SE ARCH OF H ELP AT TH E AIR PORT, Claire Eastwood TAKE S OFF WITH TH E MOU NTAIN BUGGY NANO MOUNTAIN BUGGY NANO As any mother who has travelled with a baby knows, it’s all about preparation. This means a big bag of stuff to get you through: nappies, food, milk, bottles, wipes, change of clothes, change of clothes for mummy, iPad, backup for iPad, books, more snacks and so on.

Despite all this baggage, the wanderlust in me won’t quite give up the ghost.

Until recently I’ve travelled without a pushchair, carrying baby Willow in my Ergobaby, which has worked wonderfully.

However, on my last trip, I was nearly broken after standing in the line at T5 passport control for up to 40 minutes, carrying Willow – now a delicate 9.9kg – and my big bag of stuff.

Time to look for an airport-friendly pushchair.

The Mountain Buggy Nano is lightweight, at less than 13lbs, measures 22 x 12.2 x 20ins when folded and claims to easily fit into overhead compartments on planes.

The Mountain Buggy Nano makes travelling a breeze

THE LOWDOWN As I travel a lot, mostly without my husband, I was anxious to try it. Once I got the hang of putting it up and down, it was simple. With the press of two buttons, the Nano drops in two stages, leaving it the size of a travel satchel.

I carried it on my shoulder from the car to the kerb, sprung it open, deposited baby and off we went. We were getting an evening flight to New York, so Willow was tired. Thanks to the Nano’s backrest, she was comfortable.

I strolled down the ramp right up to plane doors, whipped Willow out, collapsed the Nano and got on. It slipped easily into the overhead locker, which meant I had it there with me when we landed the other side of the pond. It was a total joy.

this pushchair was excellent. I was able to lift her over the turnstiles still in the chair, and whip her up and down staircases. It was also nimble in the hustle and bustle on the street.

The pushchair easily collapses to the size of a travel satchel

COMFORT If Willow’s happy, I’m happy. And Willow was very happy.

THE VERDICT? I absolutely love this pushchair. As a travel companion, it really is perfect. For smaller babies, it also accommodates a car seat. bl £199, mountainbuggy.com

GOOD LOOKING? Very. Slick both up and collapsed.

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVABILITY Excellent. Easy-to-use brake, adjustable leg rest, generous recline and a decent basket – it’s the perfect partner for your city break.

In New York, where lifts at subways are scarce,

It fits in overhead storage

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 97

REVIEWS

A SNOWSTOPPER Be winter ready with our seasonal selection for cosy strolling

Many of us live in hope of a white Christmas just to see the smile on those little faces when the flurry falls. But there’s also another reason to pray for a snow shower: the pushchair. The PRIAM from CYBEX is both beautiful and functional and, with the option of ski attachments to replace the front wheels, it can tackle almost any terrain – including snow.

As well as a choice of wheels to suit Tarmac, cobbles and rough tracks, there is a two-wheel mode so you can even use the pushchair on a beach. Wherever your Christmas takes you, this pushchair will adapt to your lifestyle.

As well as transforming itself into a head-turning snowmobile, the PRIAM is a fully configurable travel system that can be folded or reclined with one hand in a matter of seconds – just perfect for a winter getaway.

Make staying warm fun with this super cute set Reindeer Hat and Mittens £12, johnlewis.com

PRIAM Foot Muff £100, cybex-online.com

Verity Changing Bag £150, icandyworld.com

PRIAM Frame, £510, Autumn Gold Lux Seat, £280, Skis, £60 | cybex-online.com

98 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Armani Junior Snowsuit £205, harrods.com

Bugaboo Wool Blanket £89.95, harrods.com

one click on. one click off. commuter™ change

ON one quick click for home

meet SecureClick™ I'm made to stay and play or pack up and go because everything should work at home or away. My

commuter™ change & snooze

OFF

toppers pop on or off with one quick click because everything should simply make life easier.

one quick click to travel

midway™ change & rock

excursion™ change & bounce

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

simply brilliant.

Winter ‘15 collection

Ways to keep in touch:

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

FAMILY LIFE

When

three

becomes

four n a glorious March morning last year, I took my three-year-old daughter to preschool as usual. The only difference was that I was 41 weeks pregnant and, on that day, Ottilie and I both sensed that everything was going to change.

When I said goodbye, she clung to me and cried deep, angry sobs. I cried, too, and her teacher had to physically pull her from me, something she had never had to do before.

Shaken by seeing my daughter so upset, I went for a walk. My labour began an hour later and my son, Zac, was born that night.

We had always wanted a second child and a sibling for our daughter. We had hoped to have another by the time Ottilie was two and a half, but new jobs for my husband and I and a miscarriage meant that wasn’t to be. We veered from worrying a three-and-a-half-year gap would mean our daughter would find it difficult to adapt, to thinking that a slightly larger gap would mean she could help and

O

GROWING YOU R FAMILY MAY TAKE AN EMOTIONAL TOLL ON YOU AN D YOU R FIR ST BOR N , BUT YOU ’LL N EVER LOOK BACK , WRITE S Jessica Jonzen

would have a little more understanding. We talked to her regularly about the new baby, read her books and took her to a scan.

When I noticed her admiring a toy seal in a shop, I surreptitiously bought it as a present from the baby. Rather than rest up with a

experience. Scooping my son out of the water, I fell immediately, intensely in love.

I had worried, as so many parents do, that I wouldn’t be able to love another child as passionately as my first. I laugh to think of that now. The heart’s capacity for maternal love

THE TRUTH WAS I FELT A GREAT SADNESS THAT OUR TIME AS A FAMILY OF THREE WAS ENDING box set when I went on maternity leave, I exhausted myself with daily trips to museums, parks and soft play centres. The truth was that, as thrilled as I was to be having another baby, I felt a great sadness that our time as a family of three was coming to an end.

Despite the emotional precursor to Zac’s arrival, his birth was a truly euphoric

is extraordinary. When Ottilie met her new brother the next morning, pink-cheeked and unsure of herself in the strange surroundings of the hospital, it felt like the beginning of a wonderful new adventure.

But if nothing can prepare you for the birth of your first child then, sure enough, little can prepare you for the maelstrom

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 101

FAMILY LIFE

102 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Silverton tackled the issue by including Clemency in everything. Elaine Halligan, London director at The Parent Practice, which coaches parenting skills, says this is an excellent approach.

“First-born children will naturally feel displaced when a new baby arrives. They will need lots of reassurance that they are still loved, and they will need plenty of positive attention and understanding. Without this positive reassurance they are likely to ‘play up’ to get the attention they need,” she says.

“Rather than trying to persuade older children that the arrival of a new sibling is

great news, allow them to express their natural feelings of resentment and jealousy. When parents let children know the feelings they are experiencing are okay (even if their actions are not), it’s safe for them to tell us about them.”

As for us, we are now 18 months into life as a family of four and while, of course, it is more hectic than before, my husband and I marvel as we watch the relationship develop between Ottilie and Zac. They adore each other and, although Zac may already love to wind up his big sister, he truly was the best present we could have ever given her: a partner in crime and a friend for life. bl

PR EPARING FOR A SIBLING Elaine Halligan O F T H E PAR EN T P R AC TI CE S HAR E S H ER TO P TI P S FO R H EL PI N G YO U R FI R ST BO R N ADJ U ST TO LI F E WIT H A SI B LI N G

Smooth the way Train them to play independently or spend time with others, such as grandparents, so you have time to look after the newborn.

Prepare them for how they might feel about the baby and what they can do when they feel like that. Discuss the things they can help you with, such as playing with the new baby and teaching him how to do things. Look at photos of them as babies, commenting on how helpless they were and how much they needed doing for them.

Minimise changes If your toddler is about to be potty trained, move into a big bed or start nursery school, plan for this to happen well before the birth date or delay it until the dust has settled.

Positive attention Give your older child lots of attention for the positive things that she does. Try using a visual token system to acknowledge these behaviours, such as putting a piece of pasta in a jar for each good behaviour. Talk about the things you love about her.

Special time Our first-born children need to know that there are times when they will have our undivided attention. Put aside five to 10 minutes exclusively for each child to help reduce their feelings of resentment towards the new baby. Special time needs to be regular and predictable. theparentpractice.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

of emotion your second will bring. BBC newsreader and journalist Kate Silverton spoke for many parents earlier this year when she wrote about the arrival of her second child, Wilbur: “I couldn’t have been prepared for the amount of love I felt for my little boy, having been so overwhelmingly in love with my daughter, Clemency. I wasn’t prepared to feel so protective of him – sometimes even at the expense of my daughter’s feelings. Neither was I prepared for the guilt I would feel at spending my time trying to be the same sort of mother to Wilbur as I was to Clemency.”

For Kate Cooper, a 33-year-old physiotherapist, her first son was not even one when she discovered she was expecting twin boys. “We both felt so worried that Arthur was too young and he should have had more time with just George and me,” she says.

“But when the twins arrived, Arthur kissed both babies on the head and has never been anything but adoring of them. Now I don’t think he remembers life without them – one of the benefits of having them so close in age.

The first thing he says when we bring him in from nursery is: ‘Where are my babies?’, so I don’t think we should have worried.”

For Charlotte Stephens, a 32-year-old writer, producer and mother of two girls aged four and two, a second child was never something to worry about: “I knew Darcie would now have a friend for life in her sister. Yes, it was a shift in her daily routine and, as toddlers thrive on familiarity, it took a little while for her to adjust but I tried to normalise the situation, rationalising that this wasn’t the first time anyone had had a sibling and that she’d soon get used to it.” The thing the Stephens did feel guilty about was her tiredness: “But looking back on it, I think Darcie enjoyed the fact I sat down with her a lot more, spending quiet time feeding, watching films, snuggling.”

For Silverton, she and her husband noticed a regression in Clemency’s behaviour once Wilbur came home: “Clemency started to ‘play baby’ – lying on her back with her legs in the air asking me to change her nappy. We found it amusing at first, especially given she had potty trained months earlier. But having a degree in child psychology, I also knew she was going through a natural process that called out for more of our attention.” Clemency also refused to go to nursery and wanted to sleep with her parents more often.

“I now realise how it must have felt to her.

Her entire world had been turned upside down; she felt that she’d ‘lost’ me and was having a tough time making sense of it all.”

Dreaming ofa

white Christmas?

View our white collections at www.boori.co.uk (Other colours also available).

RILEY & ROMAN Riley wears Doug Suit in Orange, €67,50, Kidscase.

Roman wears Sean Organic Suit in Grey/Ocre, €35, Kidscase.

Bedding and Toys: Triangles Knitted Blanket, €82, tinycottons. Dimple Blanket, £19.99, Clair de Lune. Candy Stripe Knitted Blanket, £22.99, Clair de Lune. Bilko Organic Cotton Baby Shawl, £34.95, The Bonnie Mob. Solid White Classic Cot Sheet, £26, Aden + Anais.

Theo Cuddly Knitted Tiger, £19.99, Toyella. Small Cordy Roy Fox, £12, Jellycat. Nostalgia Cot Bed, £400, Silver Cross.

LONDON SIBLINGS

We celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters with our beautiful bedtime style edit PHOTOGR APHER : AMY SMY TH ST YLIST: COURTNEY ROBINSON

CHARLOTTE & MARTHA Martha wears Unicorn Jumper Dress Knit, £43, The Little Tailor. Raglan Merino Tee, £40, Smalls. Pilu Light Cotton Wool Trousers, €54, MarMar Copenhagen.

Charlotte wears Nan Organic Newborn T-shirt, €22.50, Kidscase. Fanny Organic Newborn Trousers, €22.50, Kidscase. Charlie Newborn Sweater, €55, Kidscase.

Bedding and Toys: Theo Teddy Bear, from £25, Steiff. Medium Bashful Cottontail Bunny, £17, Jellycat. Dash Star Pillowcase, £18, Camomile London. Check Pillowcase, £18, Camomile London. Camomile Padded Cushion, £19, Camomile London. Large Quilt, £149, Camomile London.

POPPY, BARNABY & WILFIE Poppy wears Isabella Pyjamas, £29 for two pack, The Little White Company.

Barnaby wears Waffle One Piece, €45, tinycottons. Pebble Ferret Hat, £37, Stella McCartney.

Wilfie wears Rompy, €35.50, MarMar Copenhagen.

Bedding: Pillowcases, from £17 each, Camomile London. Large Quilt, £149, Camomile London.

OLIVER & GEORGE Oliver wears Luna Pyjama Top, £42 (part of set), Elfie. 24 Hour Trouser, £59.50, Smalls.

George wears Bears Long Sleeve Body, €36, tinycottons.

Bedding and Toys: Amigo Cuddly Penguin, £19.99, Toyella. House Cushion, £45, Camomile London. Pillowcases, from £17, Camomile London.

Quilts, from £81, Camomile London. Abe Organic Blanket Shawl, £43.45, The Bonnie Mob. Top Sheet Embroidered Clouds, from £19.99, Zara Home.

ZAC & NEAVE Zac wears Panda Wool Base Layer Shirt, £48, Mini Rodini. Panda Wool Leggings, £38, Mini Rodini. Raccoon Knee Socks, £7, Mini Dressing at Tippy Toes Kids. Bath Robe, £55, Carrément Beau at House of Fraser.

Neave wears Owl Beanie, £13, Soft Gallery. Dressing Gown, from £26, The Little White Company. Barney Organic Cotton T-shirt, £17.95, The Bonnie Mob. Blake Organic Cotton Leggings, £15.95, The Bonnie Mob. Peony Woody Jumper, £83, Stella McCartney. Soft Ankles Socks in Pink, £4, Petites Pattes.

Toys: Medium Bashful Beige Bunny, £16, Jellycat. Medium Bashful Bluebell Bunny, £16, Jellycat.

CASPER & ESTELLA Casper wears Baby Knitted All-in-one, £38, Polarn O. Pyret.

Estella wears Bibbi Jersey Body, €43, MarMar Copenhagen.

Bedding and Toys: Classic Teddy Bear Oliver, £125, Steiff. Isak Cuddly Polar Bear, £19.99, Toyella. Large Quilt, £149, Camomile London.

Small Quilt, £81, Camomile London. Pillowcases, from £7.99, Zara Home.

LOCATION: SHOOT FACTORY, GABRIEL. SPECIAL THANKS TO STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: KATIE SYKES. MODEL AGENCIES: URBAN ANGELS, GRACE & GALOR.

Enchanting occasion clothes & accessories made for you in the heart of London, for weddings, christenings, parties & holy communion.

020 7821 9499 | littlebevan.co.uk

Jump Junior is a cheeky collection of knitted tank tops.

www.JumpJunior.co.uk 8430_Jump_Jnr_Ad_Sept_Baby_London_202x129_Landscape_v4.indd 1

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07/08/2015 20:04

HEALTH These high-end baby bath and body products are scented with classic English aromas

FROM THE GREEN AND PLEASANT LAND The masterminds behind Storksak baby bags are launching organic bath and body products for babies. The collection, which is made in England, is fragranced with pear, chamomile and honey, and made with only the best natural ingredients, so no parabens, synthetic fragrances or animal-testing. storksak.co.uk

BURNING BRIGHT Fundraising initiative Sugarplum Children, which supports children with Type 1 diabetes, has teamed up with British brand Wick & Tallow to release a new candle. The Sugarplum Candle smells of white fig and vanilla and, for every candle sold, a quarter of the money will go to leading diabetes charity JDRF. sugarplumchildren.com wickandtallow.com

health & beauty

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

BEE HEALTHY AND HAPPY Hailed as nutritional gold by celebs and doctors, Manuka honey is proven to help heal wounds. Comvita has taken the ingredient and created a skincare to treat eczema. With aloe vera, chamomile and plant butters, too, the Medihoney range is a saviour for little ones with irritated skin. comvita.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

COOL IT MAMA!

We love The Natural Birthing Company’s super spray, which cools, soothes and revives the face, body and mind. Made with essential oils, flower essences and hint of menthol, the aromatherapy spray helps relieve a multitude of woes, from nausea to hot flushes. naturalbirthingcompany.co.uk

CHRISTMAS KISSES

Winter winds encourage chapped and dry lips. Ensure yours are mistletoe-ready with these intensely moisturising salves and balms

Bobbi Brown SPF 15, £16, selfridges.com

Carmex Moisture Plus, £4.49, boots.com

Guerlain KissKiss Roselip Lip Balm, £26, selfridges.com

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BEAUTY

1

1

Bourjois Aqua Blush Blusher is the ultimate perkifier for drab skin and adding colour in line with your pupils is the failsafe way to look bright-eyed. Powders can look cakey but this transparent gel, dabbed on with your ring finger, will look more natural. Pale skins should try pinker shades and darker skins should embrace peachy tones. £8.99 | boots.com

2 This transparent gel formula blusher will help you look naturally bright-eyed

2

Five Beauty SAVIOURS

STAY LOOKING FR E SH-FACED WITH Jess Lacey’s PICK OF THE TOP REJUVENATING PRODUC TS

3

Charlotte Tilbury works her magic with a foundation that treats as well as covers skin

4 5 112 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Elizabeth Arden Superstart Skin Renewal Booster Sleep is when skin goes all-out to renew itself.

But what if you’re not getting any? Toxins build up and you can look grey and drawn. This new concoction works on the skin’s surface, feeding it a probiotic formula to stimulate and support your natural processes. Initial studies have shown huge leaps in collagen production and hydration levels. It does what your skin would do, if it were given the chance. £45 | elizabetharden.co.uk

3

DECLÉOR Aurabsolu Intense Glow Awakening Cream Skin becomes inflamed through the day and, according to scientists, we can look up to five years older by night-time. Depressing or what?

On the upside, DECLÉOR’s face cream contains Jasmine Absolute, a turbo-charged antioxidant that protects against the free radicals that cause inflammation, improving skin tone and evening out your complexion. The ultimate antidote to weary, sluggish skin. £49.50 | decleor.co.uk

4

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation After years of making catwalk models look like otherworldly beings, Charlotte Tilbury now mixes products for us mere mortals.

Her foundation not only covers but treats all manner of skin sins. What’s more, it contains a dose of vitamin C that amps up the energy in skin cells, the beauty equivalent of a lightbulb being switched on under your skin. £29.50 | charlottetilbury.com

5

Estée Lauder Perfectionist YouthInfusing Brightening Serum + Concealer If you’re multi-tasking all day, there’s no reason why your make-up shouldn’t be, too. Dot this light-reflecting serum around the eyes to colour-correct shadows and smooth fine lines, then sweep the concealer on top for extra camouflage. Both formulas blend seamlessly into the skin, so you can be as slapdash as you like. A magic wand for your skin. £28.50 | johnlewis.com

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

Party Time?

Louisa van den Bergh OF LU LU BABY OFFER S H ER TOP TIPS FOR CELEBR ATING TH E FE STIVE SE ASON WHILE PR EGNANT

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HEALTH

ot so long ago, I was excited to receive our first Christmas party save-the-date. It may have felt a little incongruous arriving in August just as I was overheating in the swelter of a Greek summer, but nothing excites me quite like Christmas and it seems every year the party season becomes busier and busier!

If you are pregnant, you may be approaching the festive season – which now seems to begin in November – with a distinct lack of excitement. Isn’t it all unsuitable nibbles and out-of-bounds booze, not to mention a lot of standing around?

Not necessarily. I have a few easy tips to get you through the season with a smile on your face, a tummy full (ish) of food and something in your glass.

N

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

A LITTLE TIPPLE?

if possible. If you are rushing there from work it can be tricky but even a nut bar or something small can be useful for staving off hunger pangs and keeping those blood sugar levels relatively constant.

You may also find that when you arrive there is not much food or it is not served until much later and, disappointing though it is, you may find that some party food staples are not great for pregnant mums.

Now, I am not the pregnancy food police and most of you know the guidelines about avoiding unpasteurised cheeses, raw or undercooked meat, eggs and shellfish.

You will be amazed at how often forbidden foods sneak their way into canapés. A bit of Stilton on that croustade, some rare beef in that Yorkshire pud and so on. Exercise

killed by the cooking process, may get through your lower-than-usual immune defences and may make you unwell. Some particularly horrid bacteria, such as listeria, found in unpasteurised cheeses, can also be very bad news for your baby.

It is better to be safe than sorry; having said that, food poisoning is relatively rare and, if you do eat something you shouldn’t, try not to fret about it.

TAKE A SEAT The other thing about Christmas parties is that you may be expected to be on your feet for a long period of time. Wearing flat shoes can prolong the amount of time you are prepared to stay standing, so it can be a good idea to have a pair in your handbag, if you start off the party in heels.

Do try to grab a seat when you can, even if it does mean missing out on some of the action. If there is nowhere to sit, which can be the case, then try standing with your weight equally distributed across your two feet, just a little wider than shoulder width apart, shoulders down, knees straight, but not locked, and abdomen tightened. Try to avoid the pregnancy pose of pelvis tilted forward with stomach out and back curved.

If you are exhausted and uncomfortable, do not feel shy about going home. No one is expecting you to be the first to hit the vodka luge and start dancing on the tables at eight months pregnant.

So, with a little forward planning, there is nothing to stop you really enjoying the party season. It’s a great opportunity to buy a new dress (try maddersonlondon.com for something really special) and see lots of friends before your little one arrives and your life changes dramatically.

You may miss out on the Champagne and some party food is out of bounds, but you will wake up the next morning with a clear head and the energy to face the next social occasion or maybe even tackle that Christmas shopping list! bl

DO NOT FEEL SHY ABOUT GOING HOME. NO ONE IS EXPECTING YOU TO HIT THE VODKA LUGE

Many women in the early throes of pregnancy feel so rotten the thought of a glass of wine is quite enough to send them straight to the bathroom.

Some of you, however, may be well into your pregnancy and might quite fancy a glass of something. You will be unsurprised to hear that the Government recommends that you don’t get drunk. In fact, it recommends you avoid alcohol altogether. However, if you read into the thick of NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidance, you will discover that “if a low level is consumed, there is no evidence of harm to an unborn baby”.

It is up to you to make your own decision.

Just remember that, if you haven’t had any alcohol for a while, even a small amount, especially on an empty stomach, will go straight to your head.

You might be in the early stages of pregnancy and not yet ready to tell anyone.

If you don’t want to get rumbled by friends who will immediately assume you are pregnant if you opt for the ginger beer, then taking a glass of something and just holding it is a good way to throw them off the scent.

TRY TO EAT BEFORE It sounds a little bossy but it can be a good idea to have a snack before going to a party,

a little caution and remember that many nibbles often sit around for a long time at room temperature (a great way for bacteria to thrive) having been prepared earlier in the day; so, if the smoked salmon or prawns look a little tired, you may want to overlook them in favour of a cheese straw. Yes, all very healthy!

Party food is often very salty and high in fat too, so another good reason to eat something beforehand is to stop you scoffing all the sausages (my weakness). Obviously once in a while this wouldn’t matter in the slightest but during the party season it can end up being several nights in a week.

If you do find you have eaten something that you probably shouldn’t have, try not to worry. The chances are you and your baby will be absolutely fine. It is not worth losing sleep over. The reason pregnant women are advised to stay off certain foods is that, while you carry your baby, your immune system is slightly lowered so you do not reject your own baby. If you have some rare beef, for example, any bacteria lurking there, which has not been

lulubaby.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 115

SHOPPING OlliElla Mo-ma Glider Chair £975, johnlewis.com

Ro-Ki Rocker Dove White £795, olliella.com

Palais Rocking Chair £3,200, bambizi.co.uk

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Nursing chairs don’t have to be ugly.

These chic rockers and gliders will give your baby’s nursery a stylish touch

Simple yet elegant, this chair is modern and stylish Lilies and Lions Swivel Chair £1,200, custardandcrumble.co.uk

Cohen Glider £1,979, gigibrooks.com

Sailboat Nursery Glider £1,590, thebabycotshop.com

116 | SEPT/OCT 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

A wide and shaped seat offers extra comfort for parents Charcoal Chair and Footstool £450, coxandcox.co.uk

FOR PREGNANCY, RECOVERY & BEYOND

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118 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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INTERVIEW

Time to Talk…

CAESAREANS

MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

This issue the sisters discuss delivering a baby by c-section Why might you need a caesarean section?

All professionals agree that, for uncomplicated pregnancies, the safest way to give birth is vaginally. Regardless of what you might have heard, a caesarean is not the easy option. We would not advocate it without a good medical reason.

That said, sometimes the safest way to deliver is by c-section – and the only safe way in some circumstances. Up to 20% of women in London end up having an emergency c-section so, however you plan to give birth, it is worth understanding a little bit about the procedure. Knowledge is power, and you are much more likely to feel in control and enjoy the day than if it is something that you have never considered.

It’s worth understanding the terminology. An elective c-section means the decision has been made before labour has started.

Although the name implies you

are making the choice, it is mostly for medical reasons; it does not mean you are ‘too posh to push’.

An emergency c-section means the decision has been made once labour has started. Although medics will be keen to get on with it, this does not necessarily mean the drama of blue flashing lights.

Often the experience is one of calm and staff will always have time to explain the reasons.

Why might I need a c-section?

There are lots of reasons your doctor might advise a c-section either before or during labour.

The most common reasons for elective c-section are: • Breech position • Twins • Multiple previous c-sections • Placenta praevia The most common reasons for emergency c-section are: • Fetal distress • Failure to progress • Bleeding in labour

This list is by no means exhaustive. It is crucial to listen and understand why doctors are recommending a c-section.

Why it is not the easy option?

Although for some women the birth itself seems easier, a c-section is not the easy option.

Any major abdominal surgery carries relatively significant risks of complications.

There is no doubt the first few weeks after the birth are harder, particularly if you have an older child at home. You have to stay in hospital longer and the overall recovery time is longer.

There are dangers with any surgery, for example, bleeding, infection and anaesthetic risks.

Studies have also shown that some childhood illnesses may be linked to c-section. This is something that you need to be aware of, especially if you are considering c-section without good medical reason.

For the vast majority of women the decision to have a c-section is out of their hands. It is being made because the risk of natural birth in your individual case is thought to outweigh the risk of the c-section. Make sure you understand the reasons, and are involved in the decision-making.

Even in an emergency, the doctors should take time to explain the decision and make sure you are happy with it.

You will never be forced to do anything you are unhappy with.

Remember that the best result for the medical team is for you to have an uncomplicated vaginal delivery and that they do have your and your baby’s best interests at heart. If you are unsure about the decisions that are being made, ask to speak to the consultant.

Next issue, Marina and Chiara discuss the c-section procedure. thebumpclass.com

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HEALTH

meet

the

EXPERTS BIRTHING PARTNERS Dr Etienne Horner Obstetrician and gynaecologist Over the last few months, many of my patients have asked about the role of a birth partner and whom they should choose to fulfil this role. Whether you choose your husband, partner, friend, mother, doula or a midwife, I feel very strongly that they play the second most important role during labour, the first being the delivering woman, of course.

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Being a birth partner does not simply mean being present at the birth. They must take responsibility if needed. As birth partner, you will represent the woman in labour if the process becomes intense or complicated.

Your birth partner must be a person you are very close to and trust to be able to speak on your behalf if the need arises.

During labour you should not feel alone at any stage because the birth partner should represent and support you through the good and bad times. Of course, we hope your birth is smooth sailing, however, sometimes labour is long and, with sleep deprivation, emotions yo-yo meaning progress can be slow.

The birth partner is needed for support and potentially to help communication with the medical team. It often helps to hear someone

else repeat what the midwife or doctor has said to help you understand what they mean.

Hopefully, the birth partner is not needed for difficult situations and decision-making, so they are there simply as someone who is part of your everyday life, bringing a little bit of normality into the labour room.

In most cases the partner acts as the birthing partner but sometimes they feel obliged to take on this role and are not always the ideal choice in terms of support. However, they are still the partner and the future parent. Therefore, I always prefer to meet the partner prior to birth so we can talk about the importance of being the companion and partner during labour.

07868 972920 etiennehorner.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

OU R PROFE SSIONAL S GIVE YOU TH E LOWDOWN ON BIRTH AN D BEYON D

HEALTH

DEALING WITH COLIC Dr Tim Wickham Consultant paediatrician at The Portland Hospital for Women and Children Colic is excessive crying in a young baby. There is no consensus among health professionals about the underlying cause but the pattern is often similar from one baby to the next: crying that is very hard to settle often in the early evening but can be at any time.

The baby also seems to be in distress and pain, the legs may be pulled up and there may be back arching and possessing (small effortless vomiting). More frank vomiting may also be present.

A large proportion of babies with colic actually have a problem with the cow’s milk protein they are consuming. The protein is present in all standard baby formulas because most are based on cow’s milk, but it also can be present in breast milk if the mother has dairy in her diet.

The intolerance to this cow’s milk protein can cause gastro-oesophageal reflux which, in turn, plays a part in producing the symptoms that colic brings on.

Treatments address either the cow’s milk protein intolerance directly or the

YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY SCAN

Giada Frontino

Consultant gynaecologist and obstetrician You can have your first pregnancy scan, called the viability or dating scan, done privately when you are between six to 11 weeks. The dates are calculated from the first day of your last period. Other pregnancy tests and scans take place at a certain gestational age and knowing the dates early ensures you do not miss the recommended timeframe.

The dating scan confirms the pregnancy and can check for the fetal heartbeat, which

gastro-oesophageal reflux. I would suggest trying the following to help your baby’s colic symptoms: • Try simple over-the-counter remedies, such as Infacol or gripe water.

• If breastfeeding, the mother can try a dairy-free diet for a few weeks.

• If baby is on formula, try a course of probiotics. There are baby preparations available without prescription.

• Try an anti-reflux medication prescribed by a doctor.

• Change baby formula to one that does not have the cow’s milk protein. These are available on prescription. Colic has nothing to do with lactose, so lactose-free milk will not help.

If the baby is not gaining weight well as plotted in the red book, then it is vital she is seen by a GP or paediatrician. theportlandhospital.com

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is normally visible from six weeks onwards.

It is especially important to have this done if bleeding or pain has occurred. The scan also ensures the pregnancy is in your womb and not in your fallopian tube, known as an ectopic pregnancy.

The scan is usually done vaginally to allow a precise view of the baby’s heartbeat. This is not painful nor harmful to you or your baby, nor will it increase your chances of having a miscarriage. Please consult your doctor if: • You want to confirm the date and viability of the pregnancy.

• You are experiencing any bleeding or pain.

At +richmond practice our female consultant obstetricians and gynaecologists are also specialists in fetal-maternal medicine and ultrasound. We offer early pregnancy scans privately and all other scans and tests recommended during pregnancy. richmondpractice.co.uk

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SHOPPING

THE REVIEW

WH E TH ER IT’S TO E ASE TH E DISCOM FORT OF COUGH S AN D COLDS OR AID A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP Laura Mason PUTS H UMIDIFIER S TO TH E TE ST Best for

EASE

Best for

NIGHT

Best for

VALUE

Best for

QUALITY

Best for

CALMING

DUUX

Air Humidifier Perfect for overnight use, this has an eight- to 10-hour run time and will then shut down automatically. It helps loosen nasal congestion, essential for newborns who breathe through their noses, and also makes an attractive nursery addition with its cute mushroom design doubling as a comforting night-light. £49.99 | amazon.co.uk

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VICKS

Sweet Dreams Cool Mist Humidifier with Projector This humidifier features ultrasonic technology so, alongside the fine mist, it projects a magical light show on walls with a choice of rotating scenes.

It can be used with Vicks VapoPads, which come in menthol, and lavender and rosemary scents. £69.99 | amazon.co.uk

BABYMOOV

DYSON

CRANE

The Babymoov digital humidifier is really easy to use. It has a number of variable settings so, once you’ve worked out your preferred set up, you’re good to go. It has a high moisture output with a strong, fine mist, perfect for soothing tickly throats and runny noses, and can run for up to 22 hours. £98 | babymoov.co.uk

Dyson’s latest Air Multiplier technology kills 99.9% of bacteria in water with ultraviolet light so babies are less prone to airborne viruses. Costing an impressive £37.5m to develop, I loved the ingenious intelligence that secures all the right settings for your home producing an even balance of mist around the room. £499.99 | dyson.co.uk

A humidifier that will appeal to children, the Ultrasonic is available in friendly elephant and frog designs. It sprays a fine mist that not only targets obvious cold and flu symptoms, but also helps soothe itchy eyes and skin.

It operates very quietly and is economical to run. £49.99 | argos.co.uk

Digital Humidifier

Humidifier

Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

RUNNING HEAD

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HEALTH

TEETHING

PROBLEMS

Susannah Warren TALKS TO H E ALTH E XPERTS TO GE T TH E LOWDOWN ON CARING FOR YOU R CHILD’S OR AL H E ALTH

A

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TIP Take your child to the dentist every three to six months for application of preventive fluoride varnish

tooth! It’s one of the biggest milestones in the first months of your baby’s life. But once the agonising excitement of watching that first little pearly white break through passes, parents often forget to actually look after the fledgling gnasher.

If you’re anything like me, you probably thought, “It’s so tiny, and it’s going to fall out, so surely it doesn’t need much attention?”

Well, you’d be wrong. Dental care should start from the word go, according to Kate Barnard, consultant in paediatric dentistry at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital: “Visit the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears for a check-up and basic information.

And start brushing twice a day with an age-appropriate toothpaste, in the morning and last thing at night.”

It’s not as simple as a once-over with a toothbrush, either. Diet plays a huge part in ensuring your little one’s dental health. Sugary foods and drinks – even those seemingly healthy ones – are not your baby or toddler’s friend. Check out Kate’s tips on teeth cleaning over the page, and make brushing effective and fun with our product edit.

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HEALTH

TIP Most break fast cereals, even wholegrain ones, are loaded with sugar.

Stick to Weetabix or porridge

BANISH THE BUGS

TOP TIPS FOR A

Healthy Mouth

PAEDIATRIC DENTIST K ATE BAR NAR D SHAR E S H ER ADVICE ON KEEPING TH OSE PE AR LY WHITE S SPAR KLING FOOD FOR THOUGHT

• Brush teeth in the morning and at night with a small, soft brush using age-appropriate toothpaste – and be sure to check the fluoride content. It should be 1,000ppm for children aged up to three years old.

• Place your baby or toddler with his or her back against your tummy, holding the brush against their teeth, almost as if you are brushing your own teeth. Or use whatever technique works for you and your child.

• Encourage toddlers to spit when they brush, but don’t allow them to rinse their mouth with water. We need to keep the fluoride on our teeth for as long as possible to protect them.

• Always supervise: parents should take responsibility for most of the brushing. Try using a chart to encourage good habits.

• Stop feeding by breast and bottle by the age of one because it can contribute to dental caries. After that, let children drink only milk and water from a cup. If parents want to continue breast and bottle beyond a year, teeth need to be cleaned after the last feed and only water should be given at night.

• Keep sugary foods and drinks to a minimum and then only at mealtimes. Allow sweets and chocolates once a week as a treat but avoid biscuits altogether. Provide three meals a day with no more than one fruit snack. Fruit has its own intrinsic sugar and acid, and should be served as a pudding the rest of the time.

• NHS dental care is free for children aged under 18.

To find a dentist near you, go to nhs.uk

TEETH MATTERS

HOW TO BRUSH

If you’re fighting a losing battle with your little one about teeth-brushing, do not despair, Dinosaur Douglas is here to save the day. The brainchild of children’s author Heather Maisner, Dinosaur Douglas and the Beastly Bugs is a fun, rhyming story about a naughty dinosaur who only wants to eat sweets and ends up in the dentist’s chair.

The book, which is brilliantly illustrated

by Alex Godwin, reinforces to the youngest readers the importance of regular brushing.

Before creating the rhyme, Heather joined forces with Kate Barnard to get her dental facts straight. Kate says, “It was exciting to meet a children’s author who could develop the messages I have tried to put across – and in such a child-friendly way.” £4.99, dinosaurdouglas.com

Brush-baby Dental Wipes £3.99, mothercare.com Plane Toothpaste Holder £7 j-me.com Lion Toothbrush Timer £5, my1styears.com

Jack N’ Jill Biodegradable Toothbrush £3.69, hollandandbarrett.com Oral B Toothpaste Stage 2 £1.40, boots.com Pintoy Step Stool £40.99, kiddicare.com

Animal Tootbrush Holder £8, j-me.com

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RUNNING HEAD

BABY TEETH

Timeline

MIDWIFE AN D COM PLEM ENTARY TH ER APIST Maggie Evans AN SWER S TH E TEE THING BASIC S When do babies start teething and how long will it last?

Babies can have teething symptoms as early as three months or as late, in some cases, as 12 months. The primary teeth have all usually erupted by the age of two and a half.

How will I know if my baby is teething?

Common symptoms include tender gums, drooling or dribbling, ear-pulling, mood changes and feelings of irritability and crying.

TEETH MATTERS

How can I help to ease my baby’s teething symptoms?

• Gently run a clean finger over sore gums.

• Keep teething toys or a clean, wet washcloth in the fridge to soothe gums. Do not put teething toys in the freezer as it could damage you baby’s gums.

• Give baby cold food purées and cold water, as well as chilled fruit or vegetables, such as carrot, banana and cucumber, to chew on.

Ensure you supervise your baby so

they do not bite off any chunks.

• Give your little one a warm bath followed by a gentle massage with baby oil to help calm them.

• Extra cuddles, attention and distraction may help.

How can teething gels and alternative complementary medicines help?

In terms of natural options, Chamomilla is a homeopathic remedy that is traditionally used to relieve symptoms.

Did you know?

Some babies are born with teeth!

TIP

Most teething rusks contain sugar, which can cause decay to erupting teeth

Camilia Oral Solution £6.99, boots.com Finn + Emma Wooden Teether £12.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Teething Necklaces From £24, nibbling.co.uk

Gumme Glove £12.99, gummeeglove.co.uk

Bugbrush Baby Toothbrush £12.99, buybaby.co.uk Teething Hippo £10.99, cheekychompers.com

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Nelsons Teetha Teething Gel £4.79, boots.com

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Motorbike (24 -36 months) Selected lines available from Amazon, Argos, Asda, Boots, Costco, Debenhams, Early Learning Centre, Grafftons/Freemans, Hamleys, Harrods, JD Williams, John Lewis, Kiddicare, Littlewoods, Mothercare, Park Hampers, Selfridges, Shop Direct, Smyths, The Entertainer, Tesco, Toys R Us and all other good toy retailers.

Tricycle (18 -24 months)

BABY TALK

y r Dia of a

mum

Part 15

IN TH E L ATE ST IN STALM ENT OF OU R SERIE S, MUM- OF-TH R EE Becky Dickinson DE AL S WITH A BATH ROOM M ELTDOWN

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130 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

those regrettable parenting fails, I decided one day that it couldn’t hurt, just the once, to dowse them in grown-up shampoo.

To be fair, this only happened because I allowed my daughters to wash their dolls with baby shampoo. And, despite strict instructions to save some for their own heads, they used the entire bottle on Baby Annabell and friends, who, by the way, don’t even have hair.

can’t go to bed with pesto, yoghurt and Play-Doh in her hair.

Yet no amount of reassurance, or fruit-flavoured bath products, will convince her. “No shampoooo!” she screams.

Suddenly, her sister jumps out of the bath and scampers out of the door. She returns swinging a pair of purple swimming goggles.

“She can wear these!” she exclaims, proudly.

I EXPLAIN SHE REALLY CAN’T GO TO BED WITH PESTO, YOGHURT AND PLAY-DOH IN HER HAIR In the absence of anything more suitable, I used a grown-up brand that promised to restore dull, lank hair to its former glory, not something children generally need.

In hindsight, I should have waited until I’d bought something more child-friendly.

Instead, I just told them to keep their eyes shut, even though toddlers are rarely capable of keeping anything shut.

The stuff had barely touched her scalp when she began screaming like I’d poured molten chilli into her retinas. (I’m not suggesting adult shampoo is this pungent, only that my two-year-old could have won an Oscar for her dramatisation skills.)

The incident was such an ordeal I decided not to bother washing anyone’s hair for a while. Except my own, of course.

But even children can only go so long without a hair wash, especially toddlers with no table manners.

So, scooping my littlest up in my arms and transporting her to the bathroom, I explain she really, really

“Shampoo goggles!” The toddler seizes the goggles. With a bit of help, she gets them over her eyes and is finally eager to get in the bath.

I’ve been out-brained by a five-year-old.

But at least the shampoo goggles are a hit.

After practising some elementary swimming skills in the bath, the two-year-old actually allows me to wash her hair.

It’s a bit tricky trying to get the shampoo under the strap, but it’s a small price to pay.

Yoghurt, pesto and Play-Doh are rinsed away and bathtime happiness is restored. Result.

Half an hour later, the water is as cold as the cup of tea I didn’t manage to drink this morning, the floor is soaked, the ceiling may well be leaking and it’s past bedtime. But at least the kids are happy and clean. All I need now is to put them to bed so I can finally relax.

“Time to get out,” I say.

“Nooooo,” they chorus. And I brace myself for another battle. bl Read more of Becky’s hilarious adventures in motherhood at babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

hen I first became a mum, I thought bathtime was something that had to be done every night. Second time around, I realised sometimes a baby wipe would do instead. Now I’m a mum of three, bathtime usually happens on a need-to-clean basis (unlike the ironing, which doesn’t happen at all). Today is one of those days.

“Bathtime!” I holler above the cacophony.

“Noooo!” shrieks the toddler.

Once the stuff of bubble-popping fun, plastic ducks and sparkly clean skin, this ritual has become a water-fuelled battleground.

Tonight though, it’s a battle that needs to be fought. My youngest daughter is sporting a hairstyle based on yoghurt and pesto with a side order of Play-Doh. She needs a hair wash like I need liposuction.

I approach the taps with caution, surreptitiously insert the plug and begin filling the tub in the futile hope she won’t notice.

She does. “No shampoooo!” she shrieks.

Unfortunately, water alone isn’t going to shift the festering concoction on her head.

“This is special shampoo!” I say. “It’s made of strawberries!” This may not be strictly true, but it smells of strawberries and has pictures of strawberries all over the bottle.

I waft it in front of her nose, but she runs away as if I were waving a bunch of stinging nettles in her face.

Having an aversion to hair washing is not uncommon in children. That’s why someone invented ‘no more tears’ shampoo. It’s also why every parent should stick to that formula until their children are at least teenagers.

I didn’t and now I’m paying the price. In one of

BABY TALK

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 131

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2. Agrawal, R. et al. Prospective randomised trial of multiple micronutrients in women undergoing ovulation induction, Reproductive BioMedicine Online December 2011. 3. L Brough et al. Effect of multiple-micronutrient supplementation on maternal nutrient status, infant birth weight and gestational age at birth in a low-income, multi-ethnic population. British Journal of Nutrition (2010), 104, 437-445. 4. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. 5. A beneficial effect can be obtained from a maternal daily intake of 200mg DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg DHA / EPA for adults – Annex of Commission Regulations (EU) No. 440/2011. 6. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol.18, No.5, 487-489 (1999). *UK’s No.1 pregnancy supplement brand. Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Value and Unit Sales 52 w/e 25th April 2015.

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WHAT IS A CHROMOSOMAL ABNORMALITY? Chromosomes are structures inside every cell of your body. They hold the genes, inherited from your mother and father, which tell your body how to grow and develop. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes, each carrying thousands of genes. The first 22 pairs are called the autosomes, and are identical in males and females. The 23rd pair is the sex chromosomes – X and Y. Females usually have two X chromosomes; males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome.

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WHAT IS THE MATERNIT21 PLUS TEST? Commercially available in the UK, the MaterniT21 PLUS test detects fetal chromosomal abnormalities. Thanks to industry-leading clinical performance, parents can feel confident they have chosen a highly-accurate test. The test is non-invasive, requiring only a blood sample. And it can be performed as early as 10 weeks’ gestation with results provided to your healthcare provider approximately five days from receipt of your sample.

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While highly accurate, cell-free DNA testing does not replace the accuracy and diagnostic precision of prenatal diagnosis with an invasive procedure. Following a positive result, your healthcare provider should refer you for genetic counselling and offer prenatal diagnosis for confirmation of test results. A negative test result does not ensure an unaffected pregnancy. Non-invasive prenatal testing for chromosomal abnormalities, including fetal sex chromosomes, could involve potential discovery of both fetal and maternal chromosome abnormalities, including those that may be of minor, major, or no clinical significance.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 133

SAFETY

Happy

Safe

Homes

FIR ST AID FOR LIFE’S Emma Hammet t OFFER S H ER TIPS ON KEEPING YOU R FAMILY SAFE AMID TH E CELEBR ATION S

C

FAMILY CHRISTMASES The kitchen at Christmas can prove exceptionally hazardous; hot fat, boiling water and sharp knives are a recipe for disaster. Keep extra people, especially children, out of the kitchen. Avoid alcohol until after the cooking, and wipe up spills immediately. Ensure the turkey is cooked through.

If someone is burnt, the affected area should be held under cool running water for at least 10 minutes, ideally longer. Buy proper sterile burn dressings prior to Christmas to be prepared. If you haven’t got special dressings, the burn can be loosely covered with cling film after it has been cooled for at least 20 minutes. Burns should always be seen by a medical professional. Never pop blisters or apply anything other than water or burn gel.

If someone is bleeding, immediately apply pressure and elevate the affected area. Sit the casualty down or lie them down with their legs raised if the bleeding is severe. Do not remove anything that is embedded in a wound, instead apply pressure around the bleeding area. Try to keep the casualty calm and warm, and get medical assistance.

134 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Around 1,000 people a year are hurt while decorating their homes. Old lights can cause fires and electrocution. Don’t balance on wobbly chairs, get out a ladder.

KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE AT CHRISTMAS Novelty decorations are not safety tested as toys and should be out of reach of toddlers and pets. Small parts from toys or gadgets can easily become a choking hazard. Be very careful of button batteries because these will corrode and burn a child’s intestine if swallowed, and can kill.

Many decorative Christmas plants, such as mistletoe, are poisonous. Mistletoe berries contain toxins that slow the heart rate and cause hallucinations. The orange berries on the Christmas cherry cause stomach pains, while the Christmas rose causes such violent diarrhoea that the ancient Greeks used it as a chemical weapon.

If you suspect a child has eaten something suspect, calmly establish what, if anything, has been swallowed. Encourage the child to spit out anything obvious and remain still, as running around increases their metabolism.

Call 111. They will consult the poisons database and let you know what should be done.

If the child has any change in behaviour, begins to vomit or becomes sleepy, phone an ambulance. If they lose consciousness, check they are breathing. If so, put them in the recovery position. If not, start CPR. Get medical help immediately.

lack of sleep and the burden of entertaining can prove too much for some. Try to create somewhere that people can escape for some peace and quiet. Excessive stress can trigger a heart attack.

If you suspect that someone might be having a heart attack, calmly sit them on the floor in an upright position to help breathing and with their legs bent slightly to help circulation. If they have a GTN spray, they should use it. Call an ambulance. If the GTN spray does not help and they have been prescribed a 300mg aspirin, this should be chewed. If they collapse and are unconscious, check for breathing. If the casualty is not breathing, start CPR immediately.

Never drink and drive, and plan long journeys so you won’t be driving tired.

STRESS Christmas is one of the most stressful times of the year. The combination of drink, relatives,

firstaidforlife.org.uk onlinefirstaid.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

hristmas parties area great excuse to celebrate but with the alcohol flowing, it is easy to take risks, forget about long-term consequences and do things you regret. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, more than 80,000 people have to go to A&E and more than 6,000 people are hospitalised due to accidents over Christmas.

Here are a few things to look out for to help you ensure you and your nearest and dearest have a happy and safe festive season.

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babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 135

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.

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FOOD

Winter Weaning

made easy

Annabel Karmel CR E ATE S SOM E TASTE SEN SATION S FOR MINI MOUTH S

hen it comes to preparing purées for weaning, we all tend to stick to what we know, but introducing your baby to different tastes and textures will help form a healthy relationship with food from a young age.

You can also shake off the cold weather with a menu of warming purées for your little ones. Satisfy their tiny tums by blending together a sweet combination of foods using seasonal fruit and veggies.

Plus, if you have a toddler (or fancy a treat yourself) check out my Snowman Cupcakes – just the thing for getting in the festive spirit!

For more recipe inspiration download Annabel’s Essential Guide to Feeding Your Baby & Toddler app.

Access more than 200 delicious recipes, as well as a host of features to keep your family on track and enjoying meal times.

Download the new version from the App Store now or visit annabelkarmel.com

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138 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

FOOD

SWEET POTATO, PEAR AND BROCCOLI SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 4 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

15g butter 150g leek, chopped 250g sweet potato, diced 150g butternut squash, diced 200g pear, peeled and diced 500ml water 80g broccoli, chopped 100ml milk 50g Parmesan cheese, grated METHOD

• Melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the leek, sweet potato, squash and pear. Gently sauté over the heat for 4 to 5 minutes.

Add the water.

• Cover with a lid, bring to the boil and then let it simmer for about 20 minutes until tender.

• Add the broccoli, cover and simmer for another 10 minutes until soft.

• Add the milk, then blend until smooth using a hand blender. Stir in the cheese.

PORRIDGE WITH PEAR AND APRICOTS SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 4 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

1 ripe pear, peeled, cored and chopped 4 ready-to-eat dried apricots, chopped 1 apple, peeled, cored and chopped 4 tbsp water 150ml milk 15g porridge oats (approximately 3 tbsp) METHOD

• Put the fruit in a saucepan with the water.

Cover and cook for about 6 minutes until tender.

• Meanwhile, put the milk and porridge oats in a small saucepan. Bring to the boil and then simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes.

• Combine the fruit and the porridge, and blend together.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 139

PLAICE, LEEK AND SWEET POTATO SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 4 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

A knob of butter 50g leek, diced 150g sweet potato, diced into 1cm cubes 100ml milk 1 tomato, skinned and roughly chopped 100g plaice fillets, cut into chunks 50g Cheddar cheese, grated METHOD

• Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the leek and soften for 5 to 8 minutes.

• Cook the sweet potato in boiling water for 10 minutes until soft and then drain.

• Add the tomato and milk to the leek and bring to the boil.

• Add the plaice and simmer for 3 minutes.

• Add the cheese and sweet potato, then blend until smooth.

ONE FOR TODDLERS: SNOWMAN CUPCAKES SUITABLE FROM 1 YEAR • MAKES 10 CUPCAKES INGRE DIE NTS CUPCAKES

125g butter (at room temperature) or margarine 125g caster sugar ½ tsp lemon zest 2 eggs 125g self-raising flour ¼ tsp baking powder TOPPING

500g vanilla buttercream 20 chocolate chips 50g orange fondant icing (or you can colour white fondant orange) Matchmakers A little milk chocolate Edible silver baubles METHOD

• Pre-heat the oven to 160C fan/180C/Gas 4.

Line a muffin tin with 8 paper cases.

• Put the butter, sugar, lemon zest, flour, egg and baking powder into a bowl and beat in an electric food mixer until smooth.

• Divide the mixture between the paper cases and cook in the oven for about 20 minutes or until golden and springy to touch.

• Remove from the oven and cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

• While cooling, make the arms from the Matchmakers. Cut off a short length and then reattach it using a little melted chocolate as seen in the photo.

• Take small amounts of the orange fondant icing and roll into carrot noses.

• Once the cupcakes are cool, pipe on the buttercream. Add chocolate chips for eyes, a fondant carrot for the nose and baubles for the mouth. Add the Matchmaker arms.

140 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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

“Pupil success is the result of the excellent quality of teaching.”

ISI REPORT 2015

For a school tour please contact Miss Ollie o.baskett@thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk

The Hampshire School C H E L S E A

EARLY YEARS, PRE-PREPARATORY & PREPARATORY

15 Manresa Road, London. SW3 6NB

Tel: 020 7352 7077

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Beautifully crafted baby & children clothes from newborn to four years of age

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142 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

For For boys boys aged aged 33 to to 8 8 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

Travel

NEWS Let Father Christmas take you and your family on the greatest sleigh ride on earth

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

FLY AWAY

Give your family the ultimate early Christmas present this year: a three-day trip to Lapland to meet Santa Claus. Stay at the Hotel Kieppi and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime, including a snowmobile safari, a husky sled ride, a reindeer sleigh ride, a visit to the elves and Igloo Fantasia’s snow and ice activitites. It’s what little – and big – dreams are made of. santaslapland.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, ©COUNTRY KIDS LANDSCAPES365

OR A LITTLE CLOSER TO HOME… Board The Polar Express for a magical train ride through the rolling hills of Dartmoor National Park. As well as characters from the hit film, you’ll meet Father Christmas and his elves. dartmoorpolarexpressride.com

No more rummaging for baby essentials at the airport with this genius clear zip-up bag. Practically perfect!

Travel Pod £11.95, pacapod.com

HOLIDAY HELPER If you’re a new parent planning your first family holiday, i-escape’s newly launched Baby Breaks for Beginners is your perfect travel companion. The collection includes more than 30 baby-friendly properties, such as Fawakay Villas in Morocco and The Rosevine in Cornwall, for a little relaxation without the long haul. i-escape.com/baby

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 143

ª Postcard from…

MEXICO

TANIA H U R ST-BROWN SAM PLE S A SLICE OF PAR ADISE ON H ER BABYMOON IN TU LUM

T

kept entertained with the kayaking, paddle boarding and deep-sea fishing on offer. We also hired a car for a day and drove to nearby Tulum to see the Mayan ruins – there’s masses more to do and see if you’re seeking some adventure.

By chance, our mid-July trip coincided with nesting season for giant sea turtles. The staff offered to wake us if there was any action (they come up to nest at around 2am) and one night we had a call to say there were two females on the beach. It was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen.

The hotel was outstanding and the staff exceptional – attentive without being imposing.

Our bedroom was incredibly comfortable with blackout blinds, a built-in sound system and a private plunge pool. The award-winning Aroma Spa was another highlight.

I enjoyed an indulgent pregnancy massage and facial with organic products, and Esencia’s fabulous homemade soaps and lotions were also used. The restaurant also needs a mention because the food was delicious and there was plenty on the menu that I was able to eat, allying any concerns I had about shellfish and cleanliness.

I’d highly recommend Hotel Esencia for a babymoon. We plan to return as soon as we can once our little one arrives. It’s the perfect luxury holiday for a young family or couple seeking a magical, memorable and unique getaway. hotelesencia.com

Sea turtles nesting on the beach

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

here is something magical about this tropical beachside hideaway.

The Mayan ruins We arrived rather flustered after a at nearby Tulum long-haul flight and a painful queue at customs but, as soon as we drove through the gates of Hotel Esencia, we both immediately relaxed.

Tucked away in a secluded cove, it was as if we’d discovered a secret gem. Formerly the private residence of an Italian duchess, the hotel felt like a home from home, albeit a luxurious and indulgent one.

At 17 weeks pregnant, I was beginning to feel more like my The hotel is on the normal self, but we were still Mayan Riviera’s most desperate to find beautiful beach somewhere we could switch off and recharge. Esencia was just the place.

The hotel has 29 gorgeous rooms, an amazing spa, gym, yoga centre (with free classes) and two lovely pools, but the a highlight was the e wer white sand x le A d The miles of an show-stopping ia dise for Tan private para beach. With miles of white sand and turquoise waters, it became a private paradise for 10 days.

While diving was off the agenda for me, there was a lovely coral reef metres from the beach. Alex and I went on daily snorkel trips and saw spectacular fish. I found a gentle Alex making the most of snorkel and dip in the pool just the the gorgeous water right amount of exercise, while Alex, who likes a more active holiday, was

Alex enjoying a tipple

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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

Season’s Greetings

• Full time day care from 8 months to 5 years • Open 7.30am - 6.30pm

! Full-time / part-time nannies ! Permanent / temporary nannies ! Live-in / live-out nannies ! Holiday nannies ! Baby-sitters

• Montessori Teaching from 2 ½ years • Flexible childcare options • Fantastic Outdoor garden space WEE ONES DAY NURSERY 4 St Ann’s Crescent, Wandsworth SW18 2LR T: +44(0) 208 870 7729 E: enquiries@wee-ones.co.uk www.wee-ones.co.uk

146 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

• Good daily balance of play, learning and social interaction • Exciting afternoon activities for 2 ½ years +, including Spanish, Drama and Sports Please speak to our Registrar, Jodie Nelson, to find out more about the childcare we provide.

+44 (0)20 7313 6582 contact@ouimaman.co.uk www.ouimaman.co.uk

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

Laughing babies may be quicker to learn, a new study has found

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.

GET GIGGLING

PLAY IT SAFE Choosing pre-school classes and activities can be a minefield for parents but help is now at hand from the Children’s Activities Association. Set up by a team of industry experts to provide unbiased advice and guidance, this national service has established a code of practice that looks at health and safety, data protection, insurance, training and development at each club or class. Parents can check the website to see if an activity is accredited. childrensactivitiesassociation.org

FRENCH CONNECTION

Residents of Clapham will soon be saying ‘bonjour’ to L’Ecole du Parc, a bilingual nursery for children aged from 18 months to five years. Founded by three French-speaking mums, it will aim to provide a nurturing environment where children can learn French by immersion. Activities and lessons are held in English and French, so your little one will learn easily. The nursery opens its doors in January. ecoleduparc.co.uk

We all know laughter is the best medicine, but a team of French scientists has discovered humour seems to help toddlers learn. The results of an experiment published in Cognition and Emotion revealed toddlers who laughed at the actions of an adult they were watching were better able to repeat those actions.

Rana Esseily, who led the experiment, believes this is related to either temperament, as happy babies may engage more readily, or brain chemistry, with dopamine levels having a positive effect on learning. So parents about to embark on toilet training may want to keep on smiling, no matter what.

LATEST FIGURES SHOW THAT 73% OF UNDER-FIVES IN THE UK USE TABLET COMPUTERS AND PHONES, A 46% INCREASE SINCE 2012.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 147

EDUCATION

MEET THE HEAD How long have you been working at St Catherine’s?

I arrived at St Catherine’s as deputy head teacher in 2009 and took over as head in January 2012.

The time has absolutely flown by.

How would you describe the ethos of your school?

Our philosophy is that happy children succeed. We place a high value on pastoral care, and on breadth and balance with academic and extra curricular activities. Relationships are also important. Much attention is given to the relationships between girls, staff and parents.

What is the school’s history?

Having opened to 11 boarders and six day students in September 1885, St Catherine’s grew in popularity. By 1890, the buildings were extended and, in 1894, the chapel was dedicated by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

By 1945, there were 97 boarders and 155 day girls and, in 1949, the governors purchased Church House, which forms the school’s focal point. The Anniversary Halls, housing a large gymnasium

148 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

NAOMI BARTHOLOMEW St Catherine’s Preparatory School We talk to the headteacher of this Surrey-based school for girls

and sports hall, along with an auditorium, were opened to mark 125 years. This year, HRH Duchess of Cornwall agreed to be our patron as she is the great-great granddaughter of Lord Ashcombe, one of the school’s founders.

How do you ensure every pupil achieves their full potential?

By creating an exceptional environment in which each girl is treated as an individual

and encouraged. We combine excellent teaching, first-rate facilities and strong pastoral care.

What’s the atmosphere of the school like?

Warm, friendly and welcoming with a busy, happy buzz.

Why do you think St Catherine’s is a good option for families?

Many families join St Catherine’s having recently moved out of London for a better family life and find a warm welcome from others who have been through a similar move. The Surrey Hills provide an outstanding environment for children to grow up in, with excellent transport links for parents. Having

superb facilities for sport and music with an on-site dance school and swimming pool means girls can participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities.

What kind of feedback do you receive from parents and pupils?

Parents frequently comment on their daughter’s time at St Catherine’s as “transformational”, and note the warm welcome and the chemistry between staff and girls. The following comment is typical: “The girls are flourishing at St Cats, academically, musically, socially and in sport.”

Where do you see St Catherine’s in the future?

It is a forward-thinking, dynamic school. My commitment is to promote an education befitting our strong traditions and building on our present success. We aim to ensure girls continue to love their time at school, flourish in their senior schools and their life beyond. We are proud of what has been achieved and optimistic and excited about our future. bl stcatherines.info

EATON SQUARE NURSERY SCHOOLS Eaton Square School has several central London Nursery Schools, which provide a seamless co-educational learning experience from the Early Years through to the main Preparatory School in Belgravia.

Upcoming Open Mornings at our Nursery Schools – booking is essential Pimlico – Thursday 5th November Belgravia – Monday 9th November School Open House - Thursday 12 November T: 020 7931 9469 E: nursery@eatonsquareschool.com

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OUT AND ABOUT

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WESTFIELD LONDON AND STRATFORD CITY Westfield London 0203 371 2300 Westfield Stratford 0208 221 7300 dreamplaceexperience.com

OXYGEN FREEJUMPING Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Avenue, Acton, London W3 0AF 0208 992 2211 oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

Follow Shrek and Donkey on an immersive cinematic adventure.

At the North Pole, children’s ‘passports’ are processed and they can earn ‘nice points’ with a game before meeting Santa.

Admission: £10 at peak times or £35 for a family of four, £8 and £28 off-peak.

Opening early November.

Unless you can afford space travel, this aeronautical adventure is the next best thing. Under-fives are invited, with a grown-up, to a freejumping session weekdays at London’s trampoline park.

Admission: £6 per child, £4 per adult.

One hour session from 9am to 10am, Monday to Friday.

Michael Rosen’s Bear Hunt, Chocolate Cake and Bad Things DISCOVER CENTRE 383-387 High Street, Stratford, London E15 4QZ 020 8536 5555 discover.org.uk Discover a secret larder, swishy swashy through a Bear Hunt and explore Bad Things in this immersive exhibition.

Admission: £5, local residents £4.50, under-twos go free.

From Friday 16 October to Sunday 10 April, 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Friday, 11am to 5pm weekends. Open Mondays during school holidays.

Battersea Park Fireworks BATTERSEA PARK London SW11 4NJ wandsworth.gov.uk/ fireworks To celebrate our longest reigning monarch, this year’s theme is A Royal Night Out. The popular display is set to a musical soundtrack and visitors can also enjoy food and drinks from various stalls.

Admission: £8, £10 on November 7, under-10s free with a ticket.

Saturday 7 November. Gates open 6pm, bonfire is lit at 7.30pm, display starts at 8pm.

No entry after 8pm.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 151

Guy Fawkes Festival

Bear-y Merry Christmas

Family Travel Show

Bear-y Merry Christmas

Big Bus Tours of London

Christmas Tales

Guy Fawkes Festival

WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM Coursers Road, London Colney, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 willowsactivityfarm.com

VARIOUS CITY LOCATIONS 020 7808 6753 bigbustours.com/london

CHICKENSHED THEATRE Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 4PE 020 8292 9222 chickenshed.org.uk

ROYAL GUNPOWDER MILLS Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1JY 01992 707370 royalgunpowdermills.com

The Chickenshed is a must, particularly at Christmas.

Sit back and let the brilliant characters bring you a sackful of silly songs with plenty of potty puppeteering.

Admission: £8, under-ones free.

Selected dates from Saturday 5 to Wednesday 23 December.

Performance times vary.

Discover the true story of Guy Fawkes and his plot by getting to know the characters during a fun performance. Culminating in a fireworks display, the evenings also feature fairground rides and craft activities.

Admission: children £7.75, adults £9.75 and under-threes go free.

Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November. Gates open at 2pm and fireworks display at 7pm.

The elves will be helping children bring cuddly toys to life in the Teddy Bears’ workshop. The teddy, all activities, shows, rides and play are included in the price.

Admission: prices vary depending on when you visit.

See website for details.

Wednesday 25 November to Thursday 24 December, 10am to 5.30pm (closes 4.30pm on Christmas Eve).

British Military Fitness

Some of London’s best stories are revealed on Big Bus Tours.

You can take things at your own pace with a one-, two- or three-day pass. Tours run every day apart from Christmas Day. Admission: children from £12.50, adults from £28 and families from £73.

Start at any hop-on, hop-off point. Principal starting points: Baker Street Station, Marble Arch, Trafalgar Square, Green Park and Victoria Station.

The Idol

VARIOUS LONDON PARKS 020 8996 2220 britmilfit.com

ABBEY LEISURE CENTRE Bobby Moore Way, Barking IG11 7HW 020 8227 3338 createlondon.org

BMF is the UK’s leader in outdoor fitness classes and runs. Its mid-morning sessions in parks across London are perfect for parents.

Admission: the first class is free. After that, there are various membership packages.

Sessions 9.30am and 10am at various London parks.

An imaginary world where children can play in a snakeskin ball pit, climb into the giant body of The Idol and leap from a white-knuckle slide.

Admission: babies £1.50, underthrees £4.50, children £5.50.

Open 10am to 7pm weekdays (closes 6pm on Thursday), 9am to 6.30pm weekends.

152 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Family Travel Show OLYMPIA London W14 8UX 0844 209 7360 familytravelshow.com The Family Travel Show is the UK’s first event dedicated to family travel. Whether you’re looking for a beach break or something a bit more adventurous, there’s something for everyone.

Admission: special reader offer: £6 (normally £12) when you quote ‘LITTLELONDON’.

Saturday 31 October, 10am to 5pm, and Sunday 1 November, 10am to 4pm.

Winter Festival SOUTHBANK CENTRE London SE1 8XX 0844 875 0073 southbankcentre.co.uk Enjoy live music and shows for all ages and take a wander through a winter market, which is packed with fabulous festive food, drinks, gifts and treats.

Admission: many events are free, though there is a charge for some. See website.

Events run throughout November and December.

OUT AND ABOUT

Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas

Anchors Away!

Anchors Away!

MUSEUM OF LONDON No. 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk/ docklands Maritime-themed family clubbing run by Big Fish, Little Fish. Grown-ups with little ones can expect the excitement of a mini-festival with bubble machines, glitter, crafts and a baby chillout area.

Admission: adults £8.50, children £5.50 and non-walkers go free.

Sunday 29 November at 2pm.

Once Upon a Christmas UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com Joyeux Noël! Feliz Navidad!

Merry Christmas! Create festive crafts and listen to tall tales from other lands in this interactive experience.

Admission: £12 for one adult with one child.

Tuesday 8 December to Wednesday 23 December.

Performance times vary.

Storytelling at the Royal Albert Hall

Kensington Mums Christmas Fair

Kensington Mums Christmas Family Fair

Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas

Storytelling and Music Sessions

KENSINGTON TOWN HALL Hornton Street W8 7NX kensingtonmums.co.uk

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH Lyric Square, King Street, London W6 0QL 020 8741 6850 lyric.co.uk

ROYAL ALBERT HALL Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP 020 7589 8212 royalalberthall.com

Pins and Needles’ production of this popular story is back for another year. Join Santa as he wakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. Aimed at under-sixes.

Admission: £10.

Friday 20 November to Thursday 24 December.

Performance times vary, see website for details.

Storytellers Paul Rubinstein and Olivia Armstrong deliver a series of sessions for babies and toddlers to engage and encourage interaction between adults and their little ones using music, movement and stories.

Admission: £4 per child.

Wednesday 4, 11 and 18 November, 10am and 11.30am.

Christmas Lights Switch-on in Chelsea

THE PORTLAND HOSPITAL 205-209 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5AH 020 7390 6068 theportlandhospital.com

Due to popular demand, Kensington Mums is organising its first fair on 29 November at Kensington Town Hall. There will be everything from kids clothing, toys and gifts to a pamper corner just for mums and kids entertainment for little ones.

Admission: free.

Sunday 29 November, 10am to 6pm.

Peppa Pig’s Surprise DUKE OF YORK’S THEATRE St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4BG 0844 871 7627 peppapiglive.com It’s a lovely day and Peppa Pig is playing outside with her friends. Enjoy fun, games and surprises in this live show with new songs along with life-size puppets.

Admission: £13.50 to £25, plus £3 transaction fee.

Friday 18 December to Sunday 17 January. Performance times vary, see website for details.

DUKE OF YORK SQUARE London SW3 4LY dukeofyorksquare.com Save the date for Duke of York Square’s Christmas Lights Switch-on. The all-day event is a fun and festive family occasion, including the arrival of Father Christmas to his grotto with real-life reindeer.

Admission: free.

Saturday 7 November. All day with lights turning on at 4pm.

Pregnancy open day

Tours of the state-of-the-art delivery suites, maternity wards and nurseries. Visitors can see examples of 3D/4D ultrasound technology and consultants, midwives and breastfeeding specialists are on hand.

Admission: free, but you must register online.

Sunday 22 November, 10.30am to 4pm.

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 153

OUT AND ABOUT

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THE MANSION HOUSE London, EC4N 8BH lordmayorsshow.org The three-mile procession sets off from Guildhall and the day finishes with a grand firework display over the Thames.

Admission: free, but there is a charge for Grandstand seats.

Saturday 14 November, from 11am to 2.30pm.

Christmas Bricktacular LEGOLAND Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY 0871 222 2001 legoland.co.uk Head to LEGOLAND for loads of rides, attractions and activities. Father Christmas and his elves will be visiting with a sack of LEGO gifts for little guests. There’s a magical grotto and the elves need little helpers to make cards, decorate biscuits and write to Santa.

Admission: £25. Must be booked in advance.

Weekends from Saturday 21 November, then daily from Saturday 12 to Wednesday 23 December.

Halloween Family Rave

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.

STRATFORD CIRCUS ARTS CENTRE Theatre Square, Stratford, London E15 1BX 0844 357 2625 stratford-circus.com

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Banging tunes by big name DJs on a multi-sensory dancefloor filled with bubble machines and glitter cannons. Enjoy the Happy Monkey craft area or relax in the chillout space.

Admission: children £7, adults £11.

Sunday 1 November, 3pm.

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Winter Wonderland HYDE PARK London W2 020 8241 9818 hydeparkwinterwonderland. com The UK’s largest winter family event returns with favourite attractions, including the ice rink, Giant Observation Wheel, Zippos Christmas Circus and the Angels Christmas Market.

Admission: free to enter. For prices and times for specific attractions visit the website.

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The Little London Music School The Little London Music School Introducing your child to the joytoof Introducing your child themusic joy of music

Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK

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TON HALL SCHOOL & NURSERY to the good standard of achievement” ISI Inspection Hindes Road, Harrow HA1 1RX IAPS/Church ofRegistration England for 7+ and 11+ Entry is now open.

Open day Saturday 19th September 2015 10.00am to 12.30pm

Boys 2½ - 13 Girls 2½ - 11

ND A WARM WELCOME TO PROSPECTIVE ARENTS AND THEIR CHILDREN • Excellent Academic Results • Exceptionally broad curriculum • Extensive extra-curricular activities • Wide variety of team sports • Outstanding facilities including an indoor pool • An open and friendly school community • Breakfast club and after school care

details from the Admissions' Secretary: 020 8427 1304 For Further information: @quaintonhall.org.uk www.quaintonhall.org.uk Quainton Hall School, Hindes Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 1RX Walsingham College (Affiliated Schools) Charity No. 312638 Email: admin@quaintonhall.org.uk www.quaintonhall.org.uk Telephone: 020 8861 8861 156 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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OUT AND ABOUT

Festive FUN Cordelia and Elly FROM LOCALMUMMY.COM PU LL TOGE TH ER TH E VERY BE ST CH RISTMAS EVENTS FOR YOU R LIT TLE ON E S Father Christmas Comes to Chelsea

Father Christmas Toy Workshop at Harrods

We love that Chelsea gets into the true Christmas spirit by offering a wonderful Father Christmas grotto experience for your mini munchkins for free throughout the festive period! Simply book your tickets online in advance to meet Father Christmas and his reindeer.

Admission: free.

Saturday 7 November to Wednesday 23 December.

Why not tackle the Christmas shopping list while dad takes the kids to meet Father Christmas at Harrods’ Christmas Grotto? Your little one will get to journey through Father Christmas’ toy workshop before meeting him in his winter cabin and going home with a present.

Admission: prices start at £10 per child.

Friday 6 November to Thursday 24 December.

DUKE OF YORK SQUARE, LONDON SW3 4LY dukeofyorksquare.com

87-135 BROMPTON ROAD, LONDON SW1X 7XL harrods.com

The Magical Ice Kingdom at Winter Wonderland

HYDE PARK, LONDON W2 2UJ hydeparkwinterwonderland.com We are very excited that our childhood dreams of visiting an actual magical kingdom made of ice have come true this Christmas – and it is right here in central London. From animals to an actual castle all made of ice, this unique experience is set to be enjoyed by kids of all ages (that includes us!).

Admission: prices start at £8.

Runs from Friday 20 November to Sunday 3 January.

Magic After Dark at Kew Gardens

KEW, RICHMOND, SURREY TW9 3AB kew.org If you enjoy shopping just a little too much, then do something different this Christmas at Kew Gardens. Enjoy the magical after-dark experience of walking through thousands of Christmas lights to Father Christmas’ grotto, complete with elves and lots of fair rides and games.

Admission: ticket prices vary.

From Wednesday 25 November to Saturday 2 January.

Visit Kew Gardens after dark to savour its fabulously festive atmosphere

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 157

OUT AND ABOUT

Enjoy a Husky Sleigh Ride, Barnes

QUEEN ELIZABETH’S WALK, LONDON SW13 9WT wwt.org.uk

Hamleys’ Father Christmas Grotto

188-196 REGENTS STREET, LONDON W1B 5BT hamleys.com What child doesn’t want to be surrounded by inspiration for their Christmas list? Hamleys’ grotto never fails to disappoint and, with songs, story time, games and a present from Father Christmas himself, every child will leave with a smile.

Admission: prices start at £45.

Runs Saturday 21 November to Wednesday 24 December.

The Enchanted Christmas House, Islington

2-18 BRITANNIA ROW, LONDON N1 8PA enchantedhouse.net Perfect for babies and toddlers, there is lots on offer, from dressing up to games to a Christmas show, gingerbread kitchen and elves’ workshop.

Admission: prices start at £129 for a family of two.

Runs from Saturday 28 November to Thursday 24 December.

Whisk yourself and your family away this Christmas on an actual husky sleigh ride to meet Father Christmas in London.

The Wetland Centre in Barnes is home to lots of different animals, but this Christmas it will also be home to Father Christmas and some huskies.

Children will also be able to take a husky sleigh ride and visit Father Christmas in his grotto.

Admission: prices start at £6.

Only runs on 5 and 6 December.

STRAND, LONDON WC2R 1LA somersethouse.org.uk/ ice-rink

Tate Modern Christmas Market

BANKSIDE, LONDON SE1 9TG tate.org.uk You don’t have to travel all the way to Austria to find a fantastic Christmas market. The Tate Modern now hosts one of the UK’s largest markets. Now in its second year, we are very excited to hear the Christmas market is going to have even more stalls and include a wonderful carousel.

Admission: free.

Runs Friday 20 November to Wednesday 23 December.

158 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Cordelia Nevill-Spencer and Elly Stancliffe

Where do you both live?

C: I live in a little haven called Putney Heath with my husband Dudley and daughter Octavia.

E: I live in Wandsworth Town.

When I moved in five years ago it was just myself and husband Harry, and now we have Arabella and Georgina, and number three on the way.

Can you tell us more about your website Local Mummy?

C: We wanted to create a no-fuss, one-stop shop, free weekly newsletter that encompasses the best of what London has to offer for family-friendly events, tips, discounts and days out.

Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason

Although we love taking our little ones ice-skating, we thought that this event might make a perfect date night experience for mums and dads during the mad run up to Christmas. Make the visit extra special with Champagne, chocolate truffles and smoked salmon at the Fortnum’s Lodge, which is right next to the rink.

Admission: tickets start at £7.50.

Runs from Wednesday 18 November to Saturday 10 January.

MEET LOCAL MUMMY

The Nutcracker on Ice, Royal Albert Hall KENSINGTON GORE, LONDON SW7 2AP royalalberthall.com

Elly and I have fond memories of attending The Nutcracker as very young children. This year, why not start your own memories with your little one by taking them to one of the matinee performances of this enchanting story on ice at one of the most iconic buildings in the world? Watch their tiny faces light up as the toy Nutcracker comes to life in this fantastic production.

Admission: prices start at around £20.

Runs from Monday 28 December to Saturday 2 January.

Why did you decide to set up Local Mummy?

E: We were catching up and discussing how we loved discovering mini adventures, but it took so long it was becoming a chore. From that localmummy.com was born.

What’s your earliest memory of Christmas?

E: Going to see The Nutcracker on Christmas Eve. For months after I wanted to be a ballerina.

C: That’s my earliest memory too. Myself and my sister were dressed as ballerinas and twirled around the foyer.

What’s your favourite thing about living in the capital with kids?

C: The endless family events that are waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

E: There is always something great going on to take kids to.

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01252 351076 or 07771 660121 www.deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk info@littlehouseofscience.com info@littlehouseofscience.com

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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

160 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

AWARD-WINNING AND INTERACTIVE CLASSES Pre-schooler development activity The team at Gymboree has a simple goal: to provide the best play and learn, art and music classes for newborn to five year olds in the world. The result of more than 30 years’ experience, the classes and activities are based on a blend of early childhood development theories and years of hands-on knowledge.

The tried-and-tested formula of physical, social, sensory and imaginary elements makes for 45 minutes of challenging, age-appropriate and fun activities that can help your little ones through the crucial early stages of development. Gymboree members also get exclusive access to Open Gym free play sessions at their site. gymboree-uk.com

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

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

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

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 163

TIPPY TOES

A charming little boutique has joined the parade of Notting Hill shops and it’s a one-stop shop for adorable apparel for your mini-me. Tippy Toes selects the crème-de-la-crème of baby fashion from around the globe, from established brands such as Little Marc Jacobs as well as smaller independents. Whether you buy your little one a French frock or the sweetest Spanish sweater, you will know the clothes they’re wearing will be high quality and on trend.

243 WESTBOURNE GROVE, LONDON W11 2SE tippytoeskids.co.uk

HATLEY

Seen on the children of celebrities such as Katie Holmes, Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck, Canadian brand Hatley has just launched its first UK boutique on London’s Chiswick High Road, showcasing its collections of daywear, outerwear, beachwear and sleepwear. Offering fresh, fun fashions for every season, Hatley clothing is loved the world over and now available for you to buy here in London.

250 CHISWICK HIGH ROAD, LONDON W4 1PD hatley.com

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

THE TOY STORE

The most successful toy retailer in the Middle East opened its doors to UK high street shoppers this September and we are loving it. The shop has been designed with children’s development at its core, and encourages shoppers both young and old to lose themselves to their imagination with The Toy Store’s in-shop entertainment and theatre. Children can play and interact while you shop the best selection of toys on the market.

WEST ONE SHOPPING CENTRE, 375-383 OXFORD STREET, LONDON W1C 2JS thetoystore.com

ILOVEGORGEOUS

Created by designer duo Lucy Enfield and Sophie Worthington, both mothers of three with backgrounds in fashion, ilovegorgeous is every girl’s (big or small) dream boutique. An Aladdin’s cave of curiosities collected by Lucy and Sophie on their travels, the shop complements the brand’s ethos of fun and feminine pieces with a sprinkle of sparkle. The collection is well known for its super-sweet little party dresses, but also includes pieces for everyday.

52 LEDBURY ROAD, LONDON, W11 2AJ ilovegorgeous.co.uk

OLIVE LOVES ALFIE

Blazing the style trail in the world of baby and children’s retail since 2006, Olive Loves Alfie offers a hand-picked selection of inspiring and imaginative clothing, interiors and unique toys for stylish little ones up to 14 years. We’re talking fun, brightly coloured clothing with quirky prints from a mix of lesser-known brands such as Rukka, Modéerska Huset and Little Titans.

Olive Loves Alfie’s founder Ashlyn Gibson also designs her own pieces.

84 STOKE NEWINGTON CHURCH STREET, LONDON N16 0AP olivelovesalfie.co.uk

164 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOPPING

AMAIA

Since first opening in Chelsea in 2004, Amaia has become one of London’s leading children fashion boutiques, charming buyers with its distinctive style. Worn by only the smartest mini Londoners including, of course, Prince George, the designs have a unique blend of classical and modern styles, infused with a hint of European panache from the store’s French and Spanish owners.

14 CALE STREET LONDON SW3 3QU amaiakids.co.uk

CARAMEL BABY & CHILD

Caramel’s gorgeous collection for babies and children manages to be both understatedly cool and adorably sweet at the same time. You’ll find a mix of trendy and timeless pieces for everyday dressing, as well as special occasions, and there’s also a small but well-edited selection of home décor pieces. With boutiques dotted across the globe from Notting Hill to Madison Avenue, you can easily enjoy the ultimate experience of beautifully crafted children’s clothing.

STORES ACROSS LONDON caramel-shop.co.uk

ELFIE

An antidote to today’s glut of sugary-sweet childrenswear, Elfie’s vintage style is charming in the right way. With inspiration drawn from nature and the great outdoors, the designs of this homegrown British children’s and baby’s brand are fun and creative while still being practical.

The boutique’s shelves are lined with quirky offerings, from elf bonnets and ethereal capes to Fair Isle jumpers and desert boots. Possibly the most British boutique around.

27 CHILWORTH STREET, LONDON W2 3HA elfielondon.com

LITTLE FLOCK OF HORRORS

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

LA COQUETA

LITTLE GOLDIE

Little Goldie is a treasure trove of whimsical home comforts for your baby. While looking for inspiration to decorate her baby’s bedroom, creator Sonali Hindmarch found there were so many wonderful pieces made by different independent designers so decided to bring all these finds together into a one-stop website. Little Goldie hosts beautiful décor, unique toys and quirky books, and even has a section for mamas, so you can treat yourself as well. littlegoldie.com

ON LIN E

Putting a contemporary spin on classic designs and simple silhouettes, La Coqueta offers a range of adorable items for children from newborn to 12 years old, including little Bermuda shorts with braces for boys and sweet smock dresses with Peter Pan collars and cosy, cashmere cardigans for girls. The traditional elements of the brand’s designs are balanced with fun, retro patterns and cuts, creating a collection that has timeless appeal but with a modern twist.

5 HEATH STREET, LONDON NW3 6TP lacoquetakids.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 165

COMPETITIONS

GET MORE… We bring you exclusive competitions selected for Baby London readers

WIN A LIMITED EDITION BABY SWIM BUNDLE By taking your baby swimming you are giving them a wonderful opportunity to learn a valuable life skill. Konfidence is Europe’s leading designer of premium baby and child swimwear. To start on the swimming journey, Konfidence is offering two lucky readers the chance to win one of its new limited edition Swimology branded duffle bags, packed with baby swimming essentials.

The winners’ bags will include Konfidence’s best-selling Babywarma Wetsuit, Konfidence’s swim school approved reusable Aquanappies, NeoNappies and more. konfidence.co.uk

ALL YOU NEED FOR NAPPY CHANGING Metanium is giving away five MELOBABY All-In-One Nappy Wallet and Change Mats (worth £30) plus a sample of Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion. The bag holds everything you need for a quick nappy change, as well as doubling as a changing mat. Double-action Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash – ideal for when you’re out and about. metanium.co.uk

WIN WITH PANDA & PING Panda & Ping is an exciting new British company that specialises in pyjamas and bed linen for little ones. With a collection featuring three colourful designs, which are fun and vibrant, its aim is to capture your child’s imagination.

To celebrate the launch it is giving away a pyjama set (worth £28.99) and a super soft jumbo blanket (worth £34.99) to one lucky reader. Both are made from 100% jersey cotton, so your kids will be super cosy this winter! pandaping.com

WIN A CYBEX SIRONA WORTH £3�5 A work of art, the SIRONA created by CYBEX, is a rear-facing child seat that not only looks amazing but is also award-winning for safety. The SIRONA’s ingenious 360° rotation system makes it easy to put a child in the seat and take them out. The pioneering design also means that the seat is suitable for every vehicle type from a compact car to a large estate – and best of all, you could win one. cybex-online.com

ENTER ONLINE AT BABYLONDON.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS 166 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Poppy wears Lulu Body, £18, Roly Pony. Bridget Dress, from €164.30, Bonpoint. Cashmere Cardigan Garter, from £59, Olivier Baby and Kids. Cashmere Diagonal Stitch Bonnet, £28, Olivier Baby and Kids. Cream Flopsy Booties, £42, Stella McCartney. Pale Felt Clouds, Rain and Sun Shapes, from £9.95, Pygmy Cloud. Mini Elephants, £8.50 each, Miga de Pan at Loop London.

STOCKIST INFORMATION aden + anais Bobbl Bobo Choses Bonpoint Camomile London Château de Sable Clair de Lune Dotty Dungarees Elfie Guðrun & Guðrun ilovegorgeous Jellycat Kidscase Loop Mandarine Coco Marie-Chantal MarMar Mini Rodini Olivier Baby Petites Pattes Piggy Knits Polarn O. Pyret Pygmy Cloud Roly Pony Rowen and Wren Smalls Steiff Stella McCartney Silver Cross Soft Gallery tinycottons The Bonnie Mob The Little Tailor The White Company Tippy Toes Kids Toyella Zara Home

uk.adenandanais.com bobbl.co.uk bobochoses.com bonpoint.com camomile.london chateaudesable.co.uk clair-de-lune.co.uk dottydungarees.com elfielondon.com gudrungudrun.com ilovegorgeous.co.uk jellycat.com kidscase.com loopknittingshop.com mandarinecoco.com mariechantal.co.uk marmar.dk minirodini.com olivierbaby.com petitespattes.co.uk piggyknits.co.uk polarnopyret.co.uk pygmycloud.com rolypony.co.uk rowenandwren.co.uk lovemysmalls.com steiffteddybears.co.uk stellamccartney.com silvercrossbaby.com softgallery.dk tinycottons.com thebonniemob.com thelittletailor.co.uk thewhitecompany.com tippytoeskids.co.uk toyella.com zarahome.com

Your Shopping Emporium

EMPORIUM

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bethanblasephotography children’s portraits, family, newborn Capture your children’s spirit and personality through beautiful location photographs, taken in your own home or favourite location

Gift vouchers available Tel: 07939447786 • Email: bethan@bethanblasephotography.com or visit the website: www.bethanblasephotography.com

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Tel: 07976 660526 www.GreatHolidayLocations.com

babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 167

EMPORIUM

Personalised Garlands Personalised children’s clocks Only £2.00 letter made in per Britain plus p+p

www.littletimbers.co.uk The Fine Cotton Company Soft to the touch, 589383 kindtel: on01234 your conscience

web: www.littletimbers.co.uk

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Make your gifts personal!

Luxury, stylish, individual ranges for the little people in your lives.

www.bundlesofjoy.co.uk Tel: 01832 737989 FREE UK DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER £40 • FREE GIFT WRAPPING

Fun Birthday Gifts

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Intelligent Maternity Wear Different shape, same style.

0845 0038301 BumpaliciousMaternity.co.uk 10% discount quote London14 at checkout

168 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

EMPORIUM

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babylondon.co.uk | NOV/DEC 2015 | 169

BUSINESS

INSPIRE

What inspired two young men to set up a babywear label?

Dan: We’d just finished business degrees and were searching for ideas when one of our friends had a baby girl called Lara.

Although we looked everywhere for a perfect gift, we couldn’t find any that were personal and affordable, so we decided to make them ourselves.

How does your business partnership work?

Jonny: We split duties evenly. I take care of our warehouse and technical operations, while Dan looks after the website and our marketing activities.

What’s it like working in a predominantly women’s world?

J: To begin with it was quite daunting, but now we enjoy people not realising we’re the owners of the business.

Do either of you have children? If not, has it made it more difficult?

D: Neither of us have kids yet but we both have nieces and nephews who allow us to get lots of honest feedback from our target market.

170 | NOV/DEC 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

DANIEL PRICE AND JONNY SITTON We talk to founders of personalisation company My �st Years about work, play and their worldwide success J: Plus there are plenty of parents in the business who can tell us what’s what.

Describe a typical day.

J: We begin by checking sales from the previous day before receiving status updates from our team members on whatever they’ve been working on.

D: In between our meetings, we try to focus as much as possible on marketing strategies and innovative plans for growth.

Where do you hang out in the capital when you’re off duty?

D: As any entrepreneur will tell you, there’s never an off-duty day but we both love exploring the new restaurants and

cool spots that are constantly popping up all over the capital.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

J: It’s easier said than done, but it’s crucial not to overthink things when you’re starting out. Of course you should do plenty of research, identify your target market and make sure you’re in a good position to launch the business, but there’s only so much you can plan for – at some point you just have to do it!

Your business has been growing rapidly. To what do you owe this success?

D: Our fantastic team, who work across two sites in London and Northampton and specialise in a number of different areas; our The company’s colourful Wooden Bear Stacker Toy

My 1st Years’ personalised Ride-on Fire Truck

investors, whose funding has allowed us to realise our business potential; and, of course, our own passion and drive.

You are well known for your PR moves. What do you think was your greatest stroke of genius?

D: We managed to wangle our way into Downing Street a couple of years ago by posing as family friends of the Camerons. We were able to pass a gift on to one of their aides outside Number 10, which got us some amazing press coverage.

What plans do you have for the future?

J: We are planning to expand our products to offer gifts for older children, as well as expanding our US offering. All in all, exciting times ahead! bl my1styears.com

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