The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

YOUR GUIDE TO NEW FAMILY LIFE FROM EXPERT ADVICE TO MUST-HAVE BUYS

The ultimate

BABY BOOK PREGNANCY • BIRTH • NEW BABY • TODDLER

2019 FIRST TRIMESTER SECOND TRIMESTER THIRD TRIMESTER BIRTH 0-12 WEEKS 3-6 MONTHS 6-9 MONTHS 9-12 MONTHS AND ONWARDS

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T I P S F O R B E D S H A R I N G FA M I L I E S If you choose to use a dock while bed sharing, consult with your pediatrician, and be sure to follow the precautions we share on sleepyheadofsweden.com, including: 1. Never allow baby to co-sleep with an adult who suffers sleep disorders, are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication, or is obese. Ensure that each adult in the bed are aware of the baby’s presence.

2. Carefully prepare the bed: Place the pod on a firm mattress only. Be sure it lays flat and remains flat with adult(s) in the bed.

Make sure there are no extra pillows on the bed that can go over the baby while in the pod.

Pillows and covers present a suffocation risk to your baby.

Position pod in center of bed, near headboard. Each side of the pod should be at least 12 inches from edge of bed.

Make sure there are no covers (including blankets, sheets, pillowcases, shams, comforters, and other bedding) over the pod.

3. To reduce risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, only place baby on back in the pod.

4. Never leave baby alone in adult bed.

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Caring for your family Thoughtfully designed baby products to make parenting easier, safer and fun

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THE ULTIMATE BABY BOOK

Brought to you by the team behind Baby magazine – the luxury pregnancy & parenting magazine.

To subscribe, visit chelseamagazines.com/subscribe or call 01858 438737 Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Acting Editor Rebecca Moore Online Editor Jennifer Read-Dominguez Sub Editors Natalie Keeler, Laura Sutherland Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Contributors Georgina Blaskey, Clare Byam-Cook, Becky Dickinson, Marina Fogle, Emma Hammett, Chiara Hunt, Annabel Karmel, Emma Kenny, Tara Lee, Tamara Lohan, Justina Perry, Katherine Pye, Louise Pyne, Susanne Remic, Laura Slater, Gillian Stewart, Paul Thompson, Amanda Woodward-Brown Publishing Director Paul Rayner Director of Media James Dobson Advertisement Director Lyndal Beeton Head of Market Julie Price Sales Executive Katie Amps Digital and Creative Solutions Manager Ben Leek Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin The Ultimate Baby Book is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel: 020 7349 3700 Web: baby-magazine.co.uk baby@chelseamagazines.com The Ultimate Baby Book ISSN 2515-2718 Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT Tel: 020 7429 4000 Production: All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2018 All rights reserved

Congratulations!

W

ow, this is happening. You’re having a baby. Mums-to-be come in all different sorts, for some of you, it may not have quite sunk in yet, for others you may be spending your time counting down the days until baby’s arrival. Either way, pregnancy can bring about a whole cocktail – or should I say mocktail – of emotions, from pure excitement to sheer terror.

And that’s why here at Baby magazine we have put together The Ultimate Baby Book – to offer some comforting companionship through this bumpy road. This guide is jam-packed with expert advice, must-have buys and plenty of enocuraging words when you need them rom the first trimester through pregnancy, birth and into the early days of new parenthood, until you’ve a sparky one year old.

Remember to write about the highs and lows, stick in your photos, and create a keepsake to look back on for years to come. Enjoy!

FIRST TRIMESTER SECOND TRIMESTER THIRD TRIMESTER BIRTH 0-12 WEEKS 3-6 MONTHS 6-9 MONTHS 9-12 MONTHS AND ONWARDS

REBECCA MOORE, ACTING EDITOR

baby-magazine.co.uk

ABOUT ME This baby book belongs to: PHOTOGRAPHY: JONATHAN MALPASS STYLING: YVADNEY DAVIS MODEL: CAIRO, KIDS LONDON Cairo wears knitted romper, £25, Mamas & Papas. Hat, £30.95, The Bonniemob. Cotton-mix throw, £59, Marks & Spencer.

We live: Our baby is due:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 5

Contents 8

FIRST TRIMESTER 10 WHAT TO EXPECT Your early pregnancy days 11 THE WISH LIST Pampering picks to perk you up 14 EXPERT ADVICE The pros take on your questions 16 FOCUS ON: SCANS The options available to you 18 KEEPING BUSY The best pregnancy books, the n ts ant nata ass s and our Instagram round-up 20 SAY WHAT? The A-listers give their views

24 SECOND TRIMESTER 26 WHAT TO EXPECT Settling into your pregnancy 29 THE WISH LIST ys r y an a y 30 EXPERT ADVICE a t ar r ssi na s talk ultrasounds, diet and more 32 FOCUS ON: PUSHCHAIRS at t r n sing y r rst str r 34 KEEPING BUSY Your maternity wardrobe at ris t a y n an t n ts y ga 36 SAY WHAT? The stars reveal their pregnancy highs and lows

38 THIRD TRIMESTER 40 WHAT TO EXPECT tst na nt n 41 THE WISH LIST t t y r ar 44 EXPERT ADVICE Your late pregnancy questions answered 46 FOCUS ON: ACHES AND PAINS How diet changes could help 48 KEEPING BUSY Nursery inspiration, your maternity leave checklist, and the best baby car seats 50 SAY WHAT? Celebrities talk impending birth

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52 BIRTH 54 WHAT TO EXPECT s na y r 57 THE WISH LIST Packing up your hospital bag 58 EXPERT ADVICE Talking birth, postnatal checks and newborn worries 60 FOCUS ON: BIRTH OPTIONS A guide to your labour choices 62 KEEPING BUSY a y s rst at t s t st sleepwear, and the ultimate labour playlist 64 SAY WHAT? The stars share their birth stories

66 0-12 WEEKS 68 WHAT TO EXPECT Taking your newborn home 71 THE WISH LIST a y asi s r t ar y nt s 72 EXPERT ADVICE The pros take on your questions 74 FOCUS ON: BREASTFEEDING t n t rig t at ing t ni ry 76 KEEPING BUSY n rs a ys i ing ti at s ts r t nig t s an a y nit rs 78 SAY WHAT? s stars g t r a a t rst time parenthood

80 3-6 MONTHS 82 WHAT TO EXPECT Here’s what’s coming next 85 THE WISH LIST Ultimates to add to your basket 86 EXPERT ADVICE The experts talk teething, sleep and birth control 88 FOCUS ON: ROUTINES Getting baby into good habits 90 KEEPING BUSY Baby massage, toys and books 92 SAY WHAT? These A-list mums pay tribute to their little ones

96 6-9 MONTHS 98 WHAT TO EXPECT Now your baby is making great strides in her development 101 THE WISH LIST ss ntia s r an a ti itt n 102 EXPERT ADVICE a t ar r ssi na s talk bedtime routines and separation anxiety 104 FOCUS ON: WEANING How you can help baby on her i rn y 106 KEEPING BUSY Getting back to exercise, datenight ideas and the best bottles 108 SAY WHAT? Honest and relatable quotes r a a s a s

110 9-12 MONTHS 112 WHAT TO EXPECT Embracing your baby’s n n in n n 115 THE WISH LIST ryt ing r t ys to travel accessories 116 EXPERT ADVICE Talking appetite, childcare and screen time 118 FOCUS ON: MOVEMENT How to nurture your little one now she’s on the go 120 KEEPING BUSY a y s rst i ay sa g ar ing y r an the best travel cots 122 SAY WHAT? Celebs do the talking

124 AND ONWARDS… 126 FOCUS ON: CHILDCARE A guide to the options out there 128 KEEPING BUSY Nursery buys, adorable play tents and cool toddler classes

130 USEFUL CONTACTS

RUNNING HEAD

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RUNNING HEAD

he rst tri ester 0-12 weeks

ABOUT ME Date I found out I was pregnant: How I’m feeling:

Pregnancy niggles: 12-week scan date:

Due date:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2017 | 9

FIRST TRIMESTER

What to expect Your pregnancy journey has just begun – here’s what is going on with you and your baby

You…

This trimester is when most of your baby’s development is happening so do be aware of what you’re eating and drinking. For a lot of women, the first trimester is the worst: you tend to feel awful and you’re reluctant to tell anyone. Most people start to feel tired and sick from weeks six to nine. This is made worse by the fact a lot people want to keep their pregnancy a secret until they reach 12 weeks, so there’s no sympathy either.

Most women only find out they are pregnant after the first month, when they are into their fifth or sixth week and have missed a period. However, some women find that the moment they conceive something changes, and they may well suspect they are pregnant.

Between week one and week four you may have tender breasts that are probably already growing. You’ll find you are surprisingly more tired than usual, are suffering mood swings, needing to pee a lot, feeling nauseous – with or without vomiting – and your appetite is

10 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

changing (this can be hunger, an aversion to certain foods or cravings).

In weeks five to eight, some additional nausea, flatulence, constipation, headaches and increased vaginal discharge may come your way, and morning sickness usually hits hardest between weeks four and 12 – the time when the crucial development is happening in the fetus. No one really knows why morning sickness occurs.

As you approach week 12 you will likely have your first antenatal appointment (or booking appointment). This will probably be the longest appointment in your pregnancy.

Having a proper bump is still a way off, although you will notice your waist starting to thicken and there might well be some clothes that no longer feel comfortable. By 12 weeks, your nausea and vomiting may be slowing down but could be replaced by headaches and dizziness. At around 12 weeks you’ll have your first routine scan.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and your baby • By week four, the embryo (which is actually only two weeks old) looks a bit like a tadpole but much smaller – about the size of half a grain of rice. She has already developed a vague head shape and a heart that is beginning to pump. At week eight, the embryo weighs about a gram, already has a little tongue and is developing taste buds. Her facial features are becoming more distinct and her heart is fully functioning and pumping blood around the body.

• At the beginning of the third month your embryo graduates into a fetus and is beginning to grow quickly. During this month the bones and cartilage are forming and the fetus is beginning to swallow. By week 13 she weighs around 23g, is about 7-8cm long and has eyes and ears, fingernails and even tooth buds.

In fruit language she’s roughly the size of a lime. Your fetus has now completed most of her development and the important systems are fully formed. From now on, it’s all about the growing.

FIRST TRIMESTER

The wish list

Feeling awful, but keeping it under wraps for now? These pampering picks are designed to help you feel perkier I would like…

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Elvie pelvic floor tracker £169, johnlewis.co.uk

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Food-Grown Pregnancy vitamins £32, wildnutrition.com

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Olivia von Halle silk pyjamas £395, harrods.com

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The Essentials Kit bodycare £68, unitybeautyessentials.com

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Mum-to-be pregnancy pack £19, myrtleandmaude.com

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Gin Gins chewy candy £2.19, hollandandbarrett.com

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Yves Delorme alpaca wool throw £329, harrods.com

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Your Pregnancy Nutrition Guide £8.99, wildnutrition.com

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Pukka Herbs Motherkind tea bags £2.99, essentialslondon.com

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Yoga pregnancy and nursing bra £29.90, cakematernity.com

Hydration tracking water bottle £10, josephjoseph.com

Presto Fly trainers £79.95, nike.com

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Seedlip non-alcoholic spirit £27.99, seedlipdrinks.com

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Cashmere bed socks £36, thewhitecompany.com

Roll-neck jumper £90, boden.co.uk

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Indulgence Bath Oil £18, bloomandblossom.com

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 11

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RUNNING HEAD

Zita West, fertility and pregnancy expert: For most women, pregnancy is a time of great joy, but for many it can also be a time of serious sleep disturbance.

One of the reasons for sleeplessness during pregnancy are hormonal changes. Rising progesterone levels in the first trimester can account for daytime tiredness, while other changes can have an inhibitory effect on muscles, often resulting in increased snoring and nocturnal bathroom trips. These interruptions, alongside nausea and other pregnancy-related discomforts, can result in significant sleep loss.

Nutrition is one of the most important factors in ensuring a good night’s sleep.

Insomnia can be caused by a vitamin B deficiency, so it’s essential to eat foods rich in the vitamin, such as bananas, egg yolks, nuts, pulses, wholegrains and yeast extract.

Calcium helps to calm nerves, so increase your intake of almonds, yogurt, soya products, dried apricots and milk. They all also contain tryptophan – an amino acid that aids sleep.

There are many complementary therapies that can help with lack of sleep. However, it’s important that you consult your doctor first, and ensure that any practitioners you visit are fully accredited. Research shows that acupuncture can stimulate serotonin production, while a professional homeopath’s prescription can have a positive impact.

Sleeping well during pregnancy is a challenge, but it isn’t impossible. Dedicating time and care to the quantity and quality of your sleep throughout pregnancy will benefit the health of you and your baby.

WHICH MEDICINES ARE SAFE TO USE DURING PREGNANCY? Katie Hilton, a qualified nurse, midwife and health visitor, says: Some medicines, including many painkillers, could harm your baby during pregnancy, but other medicines are safe, including common prescriptions used to treat conditions like asthma, heartburn, thyroid problems and diabetes. To be sure, always check with your doctor or midwife. Decisions are made on a case by case basis, on whether the benefits outweigh the risks, so be sure to tell any health professional you are pregnant before they prescribe anything, and talk to your doctor immediately if you take regular medication.

Medicines that are usually safe in pregnancy include paracetamol, most antibiotics, local anaesthetics and most vaccinations. However, you should ideally avoid taking medications during pregnancy if you can, particularly during the first three months. If you really feel you do need to take medicines when you’re pregnant, you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.

As mentioned previously, paracetamol is safe to take as it has been routinely used during all stages of pregnancy with no evidence of any harmful side effects. However, avoid those that contain both paracetamol and caffeine, such as decongestants or ‘flu relief’ tablets. High levels of caffeine can result in low birth weight and potentially miscarriage. Ibuprofen and high-dose asprin should also be avoided, as it has been linked to a number of complications. Ibuprofen shouldn’t be used at all during the third trimester.

AVOID TAKING MEDICATIONS IF YOU CAN – PARTICULARLY IN THE FIRST THREE MONTHS 14 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

I USUALLY GO TO THE GYM THREE TIMES A WEEK, BUT I’VE JUST HAD MY 12-WEEK SCAN AND AM UNSURE WHAT EXERCISES ARE SAFE NOW. WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND? Keith McNiven, personal trainer at Right Path Fitness, says: It’s always a good idea to keep up some sort of fitness regime while pregnant, although what is a suitable level of exercise for you will depend on a number of factors, including your pre-pregnancy fitness level and exactly how much the demands of pregnancy affect your mood and energy levels day-to-day.

The benefits are endless, though – going to the gym while pregnant will help to alleviate aches and pains, reduce constipation, help you sleep, lower your risk of gestational diabetes, make you less prone to depression, and can even lead to a shorter, less complicated labour. Whichever exercise programme you choose, make sure you seek professional advice and ensure your instructor knows you are pregnant. A suitable programme will focus on exercises that don’t put any unnecessary pressure on the stomach. Try to focus primarily on seated movements if lifting any weights, as standing and performing weight-resistance movements while pregnant can be unsafe as your bump will alter your natural centre of gravity and make it harder to maintain your balance.

As your bump gets bigger, resistance bands are a useful alternative to free weights, as there are no weights to drop on your bump.

Avoid exercises where you have to lie on your back as your enlarged uterus and baby can compress your vena cava, the major vessel that returns blood to your heart, which can lower your blood pressure and reduce blood flow to the placenta. Yoga and swimming are always safe bets during pregnancy, too.

SOURCES: APTACLUB; MOTHERCARE; THE BUMP CLASS; TENA, ONS.GOV.UK

I’M ONLY EIGHT WEEKS PREGNANT BUT ALREADY STRUGGLING TO SLEEP AT NIGHT – COULD THIS BE PREGNANCY RELATED?

FIRST TRIMESTER

DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice Our healthcare professionals answer your early pregnancy questions

pregnancy is a time to be enjoyed, as many know it really can be a pain in the backside (or the shoulders, back or groin). Your body will change as it adapts to your growing baby.

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

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

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

OF PREGNANT WOMEN STOP EXERCISING FOR FEAR OF HARMING THEIR BABY

3KG

IS THE AVERAGE WEIGHT GAIN IN THE FIRST THREE MONTHS

You only need to consume about 100 extra calories per day during the first trimester

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF VISITING A CHIROPRACTOR WHILE PREGNANT? Polly Hand, chiropractor and doula at Chiropractic By Hand, says: While

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Other questions I want to ask my midwife…

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OF WOMEN DON’T DO THEIR PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES

OVER

679,000 BABIES WERE BORN IN THE UK IN 2017

SPERM CAN LIVE UP TO SEVEN DAYS, AND AN EGG 24 HOURS, SO ACTUAL CONCEPTION MAY HAVE OCCURED A FEW DAYS AFTER INTERCOURSE

FIRST TRIMESTER

FOCUS ON

Scans Dr Chiara Hunt AN D Marina Fogle, FOU N DER S OF TH E BUM P CL ASS, DISCUSS TH E OP TION S AVAIL ABLE TO YOU eeing your baby at any of your scans is an unforgettable moment. During your pregnancy you’ll have two main scans: the 12-week check up and 20-week scan – both performed using ultrasound.

Ultrasound scans have been used in pregnancy since the mid 1950s and have no known side effects for mother and baby. They’re a really good way of having a non-invasive yet detailed look inside the uterus at the developing fetus.

It is now widely accepted that due dates predicted from scans are the most accurate.

Of course, if you have had IVF and know the precise date of implantation, you will know exactly. If you believe you know because ‘it could only have happened on one night’, remember that sperm can live up to seven days, so fertilisation can occur on the day you have sex (if you happen to ovulate that day) or a few days later. It is fairly common for your due date to be recalculated after your scan and it might have changed up to a week or so. The scan date is more accurate but do bear in mind that your baby is likely to arrive anywhere between three weeks before and two weeks after that date.

It’s important to remember that, although the scans are good, they do not always detect every abnormality. A normal scan, although reassuring, does not give a 100 per cent clean bill of health. For example, of the one per cent of babies born with a heart abnormality, about half of these are picked up at birth or later. The scans only look at the structure of the organs but can’t give us much information about their function; this can be

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more carefully assessed after the baby is born.

Although for many this is a happy experience, for an unlucky few the 12-week scan is the time they find out they have had a miscarriage if no heartbeat is detected, and so it’s normal to feel both nervous and excited.

THE 12-WEEK CHECK-UP (NUCHAL SCAN) The 12-week check-up is really important.

Using a combination of ultrasound and a blood test, it determines the risk of the fetus having a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down’s syndrome, as well as many other things, including genetic syndromes and structural abnormalities. The ultrasound scan checks the fetus is growing well but another purpose is to look at the translucent or clear space in the tissue at the back of your fetus’s neck – hence the name, ‘nuchal scan’. The baby’s nasal bone is also measured. Babies with abnormalities tend to accumulate more fluid behind the neck and have absent nasal bones.

Sometimes this scan is also called the ‘dating scan’ as it accurately predicts the due date more so than dating from your last period.

In order for the tests to be accurate, the check-up must be done between 11 and 14 weeks. It does not give you a diagnosis of any abnormalities, simply an idea of whether you are at high or low risk of certain conditions. If the risk is deemed high you may be advised to have chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis tests; these are the only accurate ways of testing for chromosomal abnormalities. However, they are invasive and

EXTRA SCANS There are many other scans and tests available privately, here are your options: • Fetal viability scans, at six to 10 weeks, will check that the embryo has implanted correctly and, from seven weeks, you’ll be able to hear a heartbeat. This scan is often done internally. Cost: approx £100.

• 3D scans show still images of your baby in three dimensions. 4D scans show moving 3D images of your baby. Parents will see baby’s skin rather than her insides. You may also be able to see the shape of your baby’s mouth and nose.

The best time to have either of these is between 26-30 weeks. Cost: from £50.

• There is mounting pressure for late scans to be included routinely in NHS care, but currently, unless there are problems, your final s an would e at wee s A late scan will check the baby is growing nicely, that the placenta looks healthy and is working properly and will he the amount of amnioti uid Doctors might also do a Doppler scan to he the lood ow in the um ili al cord. Cost: approx £150.

FIRST TRIMESTER

this type of test costs around £500. If the test is positive, the result would still need to be confirmed with amniocentesis or CVS. Most professionals agree that NIPT is an exciting medical development which in the future may prevent the miscarriage of healthy fetuses through invasive DNA testing. We all know that the NHS is stretched financially, so cannot always offer the newest tests immediately. Therefore, for those mothers who have a history of genetic abnormalities or are slightly older – and therefore at an increased risk – and can afford it, NIPT is worth doing.

THE 20-WEEK SCAN (ANOMALY SCAN)

IT’S COMMON FOR YOUR DUE DATE TO BE RECALCULATED AFTER YOUR FIRST SCAN associated with a small risk of miscarriage. Bear in mind that CVS is not usually done after 14 weeks, so it is a good idea to do the 12-week scan earlier rather than later, allowing time to arrange further tests if necessary.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

NON-INVASIVE PRENATAL TESTING, (THE HARMONY TEST) Fairly recently, a new test has become available in the UK, known as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT). This is offered in private clinics across the UK under brand names such as the widely known Harmony Test, as well as Nifty, Panorama, Verify, MaterniT21 and SAFE. The

NHS is beginning to use it and an increasing number of trusts are offering it to women who are deemed high risk after the initial combined screening, instead of proceeding straight to invasive testing such as amniocentesis or CVS. Invasive testing carries with it a chance of miscarriage which NIPT doesn’t.

The NIPT test works by detecting the baby’s DNA in the mother’s blood from a simple blood test, usually taken at around 10 weeks.

By detecting this DNA, the lab can much more accurately (around 99 per cent) assess the risk of genetic abnormalities such as Down’s syndrome. Currently in the private sector,

For most women, the 12-week scan is the green light to celebrate and get excited about being pregnant. But eight weeks later you have another ultrasound that looks closely at how the fetus and all her organs are developing.

Rather than just a quick look to see if all is well, or simply to tell you the sex of your fetus, at the 20-week scan the sonographer will spend a lot of time looking at your fetus’s various organs to check they are developing as they should be.

What will be checked?

• Head and brain • Heart – its chambers, valves and blood vessels • Abdominal contents – particularly the kidneys and stomach • Spine • Facial features • Hands and feet • Placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid • Genitals – this is usually the time they can let you know whether you’re having a girl or a boy.

Unfortunately, it’s at this scan that abnormalities are sometimes found. Most irregular findings are minor and may require rescanning or surgery but will not necessarily affect the outcome of your pregnancy. In some cases the abnormalities are potentially life-threatening. This is devastating for parents, but the teams are specially trained to support couples at this time and offer excellent care.

Do remember that these cases are very rare indeed. In the UK we’re lucky to be at the cutting-edge of science, and every precaution is taken to ensure that our babies arrive in our arms fit and healthy. For most mothers, the 20-week scan is an amazing window to their uterus, where they can see their perfect little baby growing beautifully. So, enjoy it and be prepared to get emotional!

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 17

FIRST TRIMESTER

WHAT TO READ

There is a wealth of information out there, but these titles cut to the chase with their expert, no-nonsense advice

THE BUMP CLASS: AN EXPERT GUIDE TO PREGNANCY, BIRTH AND BEYOND

Antenatal classes

Give yourself a head start by learning about birth and parenthood, at the same time as making new friends

By Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt The sisters and founders of The Bump Class have put together this comprehensive guide to fill you in on everything you need to know, including the answers to every embarrassing question you might have.

THE POSITIVE BIRTH BOOK

By Milli Hill This warm, witty and honest read aims to help you work out what kind of birth you want. It’s a huge decision, but this explores all your options, with real-life case studies.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU’RE EXPECTING

By Heidi Murkoff With more than 600 pages, it’s not exactly a light read, but this bestselling book will give you all the facts and advice you need to know during this special time.

THE EXPECTANT DAD’S HANDBOOK

Silk pyjama trousers £50, topshop.com

Cashmere sweater £350, chintiandparker.com

Printed t-shirt £38, scampanddude.com

18 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

Reversible jersey £89, meandem.com

Linen pyjama shorts £35, pigletinbed.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: REBECCA MOORE

TIME TO SHOP:

LOUNGEWEAR

By Dean Beaumont Everything that’s going on inside the womb is alien to him, so this book sets out to give a little reassurance and a whole lot of information. Covering all areas from a father’s role during labour to life as a new dad.

FIRST TRIMESTER

Who to follow These Instagram accounts capture family life at its most beautiful, as well as filling your feed with a host of dreamy shopping and travel ideas

P

regnancy brings about a world of newfound information, and a whole lot of baby paraphernalia, but it also often marks the blossoming of new friendships, most of which are formed through classes.

Your midwife is likely to recommend you go along to antenatal classes and breastfeeding workshops. The idea behind them is to not only help you prepare for your baby’s birth, but to give you the confidence and advice you need to look after and feed them. You’ll also be informed on all the different birthing options available, helping you to come up with a birth plan.

The type of class you go for is completely your choice, and you can do as many or as few as you feel are right for you. The most well-known paid-for classes are run by the NCT, but you might also choose local private classes such as London-based The Bump Class. The cost of NCT classes depend on the type you choose, where you live and if you’re eligible for concessions, but typically start from around £124 for two people. NHS midwives also run their own free classes from 30 to 32 weeks, which take place at hospitals or children’s centres. These do tend to be held as larger groups, so they may focus on providing information rather than encouraging participation.

Classes are a great way to make friends with other parents who are expecting around the same time. These friendships can be invaluable in those first few months.

@BABY_MAG_INSTA From her first tiny pair of shoes to the coolest changing bags, expect to see a bounty of beautiful baby products.

@SALLYFAZELI This mum-of-two’s grid offers endless parenting inspo. For super-chic nursery goals, head over to @sallyfazelihome.

@SHAKIRA.AKABUSI Having just given birth to her second child, the fitness expert’s feed is full of advice on balancing wellbeing and motherhood.

Cotton t-shirt £39, doubletroublegang.com Cotton-flannel pyjama shirt £35, cosstores.com

Silk slip dress £165, silkandgrey.com

@NAPPY_NOMAD_ This globetrotting family of four makes toddler travel look easy! Scroll their scenic snaps for serious holiday FOMO. Merino wool joggers £110, wyselondon.co.uk The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 19

FIRST TRIMESTER

Say what?

Discovering you are pregnant is a life-changing experience for every woman, as these celebrities attest…

“I loved it. It’s odd, your body is being completely taken over, and yet, it’s amazing to watch it change. It’s like being the subject of your own David Attenborough programme! Some days it gets you down, but on the whole I found pregnancy really uplifting.”

Pregnant me

ALEX JONES, TV PRESENTER AND MUM TO TEDDY

“When I found out, I felt elated! I had been trying for about five months and was feeling quite deflated by it all. As soon as I saw those positive pregnancy test lines I was ecstatic.”

How I feel…

FEARNE COTTON, TV AND RADIO PRESENTER, AND MOTHER TO REX AND HONEY

I as luc y I d dn t find e t er pregnancy ard so t ere s not ng to put e o a t rd en I ad a bad t rd pregnancy I e got a ay t t o good ones

“Oh my goodness, there were tears! Lots and lots of happy tears. We had been trying for quite a while, and Jade and I were together when I found out, so we were just over the moon. Best feeling ever.”

EMMA BUNTON, SINGER TURNED RADIO PRESENTER, MUM TO BEAU AND TATE

“I felt complete elation when I found out. I remember thinking; if I ever got nervous, think back to the moment I saw those two lines on the pregnancy test, and the sheer sense of joy that rushed through me. I wish I could have bottled that feeling.”

NATALIE PINKHAM, TV PRESENTER AND MOTHER TO WILF AND WILLOW

20 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM/FEARNECOTTON; INSTAGRAM/EMMALEEBUNTON

KIMBERLEY WALSH, SINGER, ACTRESS AND MOTHER TO BOBBY AND COLE

Wave The future-proofed travel system Combining beautiful British design with innovation, Wave will carry your newborn in comfort and style, yet is future-proofed for the arrival of a second baby. All available in one ready-to-go package.

So, whatever the plans for your family, visit selected nursery specialists nationwide. silvercrossbaby.com

ADVERTORIAL

To fertility… and beyond From pre-pregnancy, through maternity and into childhood, Imperial Private Healthcare works with families at every stage of the journey in to parenthood ecoming a parent is as exciting as it is nerve-racking. So it’s reassuring that Imperial Private Healthcare can offer expertise to support growing families.

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EXPERT FERTILITY CARE When pregnancy itself is a challenge, the team at The Wolfson Fertility Centre at Hammersmith Hospital offers advice and treatments in all aspects of assisted conception. The clinic was established by Professor Lord Robert Winston in 1982, and is one of the largest fertility services in the UK. The Wolfson has some of the highest IVF success rates in the country, with between 4547 per cent of all women becoming pregnant after treatment. In fact, the results are particularly strong for women over 40, with 40 per cent becoming pregnant after treatment.

“This is a highly ethical organisation,” says Mr Rehan Salim, consultant in reproductive medicine. “We would never advise patients to undertake any treatments that we don’t believe will give the best possible chance of having a baby. Our private business also works alongside our NHS service. If you’re eligible for treatment on the NHS, we’ll make sure you receive it. But for patients that aren’t covered, we still offer the same high quality treatment.”

Hospital and The Sir Stanley Clayton Ward in Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital – both in London.

Consultant-led care with world-leading obstetricians is available at both sites, with around 20 private obstetricians to choose from. For women whose pregnancy is considered low risk, Queen Charlotte’s also offers a midwife-led service.

Parents-to-be are given lots of support leading up to the birth and thereafter. A great example of this is The Lindo Wing’s offering of antenatal classes, from breastfeeding to first aid, exclusively to parents giving birth there.

New families spend their precious first days in private, en suite rooms, and all meals are made to order on site by a team of talented chefs. There’s also the additional option of a celebratory high tea to welcome your new arrival in style.

THE JOURNEY INTO MATERNITY Once a pregnancy has been confirmed (whether natural or assisted), then Imperial Private Healthcare’s expert maternity teams are ready to take over the reins. With two private facilities – The Lindo Wing at St Mary’s

22 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

Imperial Private Healthcare’s maternity units are among the safest in the country

ADVERTORIAL Parents-to-be are given lots of support leading up to the birth

NEONATAL SUPPORT Care doesn’t stop once a baby is born. All babies can be seen by a private neonatal consultant within 72 hours of birth for their neonatal baby test (NIPE), to identify any immediate concerns.

The Lindo Wing provides a dedicated neonatal on-call service, where a neonatal consultant can be available any time between 8:30am and 5pm from Monday to Friday to respond to parents’ concerns.

Most importantly, both private units also provide 24/7 emergency neonatal care, with St Mary’s Hospital caring for babies born over 27 weeks gestation, and Queen Charlotte’s able to take babies from as early as 23 weeks; something not all private maternity hospitals can offer. “The neonatal units on both sites work together,” explains consultant neonatologist, Sunit Godambe. “We offer the same, unified service, so if a baby does need to be transferred, we still offer excellent continuity of care.”

With both maternity units on the site of a major acute hospital, there’s also back up support for mum as well, making Imperial Private Healthcare’s maternity units among the safest in the country.

Once families go home, they also have the opportunity to receive a series of postnatal check-ups in the days following baby’s birth, including the choice of a home visit with one of our midwives.

BETTER CARE FOR LIFE

Imperial Private Healthcare’s paediatric service is on hand

As a child grows, the paediatric service is on hand to support children with a range of health problems, from common concerns like allergies through to more serious conditions like bone marrow transplants.

For those that need additional support, paediatric patients have access to the newly refurbished children’s intensive care unit at St Mary’s Hospital, ensuring children with the most challenging of care needs can continue to be seen and supported by their team, if the need ever arises.

Every parent wants their baby to have the best start in life. The team at Imperial Private Healthcare are proud to be able to play a part in making that happen, and to support them as they grow. And perhaps even when they go on to have children of their own.

For more information call 0203 311 7700 or visit imperialprivatehealthcare.co.uk

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 23

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24 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2017

RUNNING HEAD

The second trimester

13-27 weeks

ABOUT ME How I’m feeling:

My cravings: Pregnancy niggles: Baby name ideas: 20-week scan date:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2017 | 25

SECOND TRIMESTER

What to expect You’re now into your second trimester – here’s what is going on with you and your baby

You…

This is generally when that lovely pregnancy glow kicks in. Any morning sickness you’ve been experiencing should ease off by around week 15 and you’ll notice that your skin starts to feel good and your hair may start to thicken. Most tend to agree that this is when they enjoy their pregnancy the most; the nausea subsides and your numerous trips to the loo are less frequent.

This an exciting time, too, as towards the end of week 17 you may start to feel butterflylike flutters in your tummy which are your fetus’s movements. However, it’s not all a bed of roses – you may also experience some strange symptoms such as nosebleeds, nasal congestion, blocked ears and bleeding gums.

You’ll probably have noticed some significant changes to your body during this trimester, including larger breasts and a thickening of your waist. Alongside changes to your appearance, frustratingly you may also experience what’s known as ‘baby brain’,

26 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

but remember this is temporary and you can blame your change in hormones. This is also the time when you’ll get to see your baby again at the 20-week scan. But the big question is, will you find out the sex?

During weeks 22 to 26, many women notice skin changes, and leg cramps at night can become more debilitating as your pregnancy progresses. You can relieve these by doing some simple stretches and wearing support stockings. You may also have an itchy tummy; as the skin across your bump becomes taught it becomes dry, often resulting in irritated skin.

As your uterus grows, it presses up against your diaphragm, leaving less room for your lungs to expand, which leaves many women experiencing breathlessness. You may notice that you have become clumsier, dropping things or tripping more often – again, you can blame your hormones for this, which are causing your joints to loosen and your hands to swell.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and your baby • During weeks 14 to 17, the fetus will start looking more in proportion and is roughly the size of an avocado, with the body now growing faster than the head.

If you could see her you would notice lots of hiccoughing, which is actually the fetus practicing her breathing movements.

• Eyelashes, eyebrows and head hair are growing and her hearing is now pretty good; voices from the outside world can be heard, although the ears are not fully developed until 24 weeks. At week 16 you still may not have a visible bump – don’t worry, a lot of first time mothers don’t look pregnant until after 20 weeks. By week 17, she weighs about 140g and is 13cm long.

• By week 19 her eyelashes have grown even more and she now has fingernails. By weeks 22 to 26, your baby’s eyes can open and close and she will be able to tell the difference between light and dark. She will open and close her fists and curl her toes. You may start to feel her hiccoughs now, too. Your baby’s vocal cords are fully functional although she won’t make her first sound until she is born. The hair on her head is still white as no pigment has been deposited yet and her skin is still thin and translucent as there isn’t any fat underneath. Until 24 weeks fetal length is measured from crown to rump. After 24 weeks the baby is more stretched out, so length is measured from head to heel.

SECOND TRIMESTER

The wish list

It’s an exciting time when you can begin to embrace your pregnancy and start making purchases for your little one I would like…

1

2

3

Support leggings £16, jojomamanbebe.com

5

Sophie la Girafe arrival set £39.95, harrods.com

6

13

De Mamiel Pregnancy Facial Oil £65, spacenk.com

Quilted Coco Mat cot mattress £140, naturalmat.co.uk

14

Pregnancy Yoga with Tara Lee DVD £12, amazon.co.uk

Zita West Vital Essence 2 capsules £26.50, zitawest.com

8

Joy maternity necklace £55, lilyandribbon.com

10

Hotmilk nursing bra £45.99, figleaves.com

Ferm Living cushion £49, en.smallable.com

7

Leander changing table £311, en.smallable.com

9

4

Childhome baby cot £395, cuckooland.com

11

‘Bobby Stork’ soft toy £29, worldofbears.com

12

Therafirm Preggers maternity tights £25.99, pebbleuk.com

15

Cotton-mix babygrow From £34, petitbateau.com

English Trousseau hamper £129, harrods.com

16

Eucalyptus and lavender candle £25, helpyourpregnancy.com

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 29

RUNNING HEAD

HOW COULD MY BLOOD GROUP AFFECT MY PREGNANCY?

women are always given a blood group test.

Essentially, there are four main blood types – A, B, AB and O. However, each can either be RhD positive or RhD negative, which means there are eight main blood groups in total.

Mixing blood groups can be life-threatening, so you will always receive blood from the same blood group in hospital.

In blood group A, for example, there are anti-B antibodies in the plasma, which would attack the cells in blood group B. While more than eight in 10 people in the UK are RhD positive, if a mother is RhD negative but the child inherits an RhD positive blood group from the father, it could cause complications if not treated in a timely manner.

It is important to identify at-risk pregnancies early on, so women are usually screened during early pregnancy and again at 28 weeks, regardless of RhD status. If a woman is RhD negative, then there’s a few considerations, such as partner testing, and potential steps that will need to be taken. Anti-D prophylaxis may be administered – which can actually be given to an RhD negative mother following birth to protect future pregnancies, too.

Depending on your initial screening results, you may be referred to a specialist clinic for further investigation and detailed antenatal management.

It is best to have a clear plan in place for your pregnancy – from the planning stages through to labour and beyond – as each individual will have a completely different circumstance. But there’s no need to worry, if your tests are organised by an experienced professional you will be able to enjoy all the best bits of this special time and relax!

I’M FOUR MONTHS PREGNANT AND HAVE REALLY BEEN OVERINDULGING THE LAST FEW MONTHS. WHAT FOODS SHOULD I MAKE SURE I’M GETTING IN MY DIET NOW? Melanie Lawson, founder of Bare Biology, says: Eat more fat. After months of indulgence, the first thing you might be tempted to do is cut back on it, but don’t. Fat – the good kind – is crucial for your wellbeing and the development of your baby’s brain and eyes. At the top of the list is omega 3 DHA. It makes up 20 per cent of your baby’s brain, helps to prevent postnatal depression and lowers the risk of infant allergies. Include DHA in your diet by eating oily fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel and anchovies. It’s also important to take supplements alongside that – just be sure they are independently certified, pure and fresh.

The UK government recommends eating two portions of fish per week while pregnant. Unfortunately, this doesn’t provide anywhere near the amount of DHA needed to protect the mother’s mental health and support baby’s neurological growth. That’s why supplementation is critical.

Flaxseeds, walnuts and hemp seeds are great sources of healthy fats, too.

Not only do they contain some omega 3s, they’re high in fibre. This may help to ease bloating and keep bowels regular.

The more fibre you can include in your diet, the more energetic you’ll feel.

Aim for at least two cups of salad or veggies with each meal and add avocados, pumpkin seeds or almonds.

This is a great way to provide you with vitamin C, magnesium, calcium and iron.

Nuts and seeds are also high in protein – essential for baby’s growth, too.

GOOD FATS ARE CRUCIAL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF YOUR BABY’S BRAIN AND EYES 30 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

WHAT IS A FETAL WELLBEING ULTRASOUND AND SHOULD I HAVE ONE? Dr Aris Papageorghiou, professor of fetal medicine and obstetrics and consultant at Ultrasound Diagnostic Services, says: Currently all women in the UK are offered two ultrasound scans during pregnancy: at 12 weeks and again at 20 weeks.

In addition, some women are offered an extra scan in late pregnancy, for example, 28 or 36 weeks. This is called a fetal wellbeing scan and is also known as a late pregnancy or third trimester scan. Usually this is done due to some risk factor, for example, a maternal condition such as pre-eclampsia or diabetes; a suspected problem with the baby’s growth on examination; or a previous pregnancy complication such as stillbirth. In many countries the scan is done routinely and some doctors believe that this should be offered to all women.

The main purpose of the late pregnancy scan is to identify those babies that show signs of poor growth or poor placental function.

Offering such a scan to all women roughly triples the chances of picking up babies with growth problems; it is also thought to detect babies at risk of stillbirth. In theory, this should reduce the risks to these babies as they can be monitored more closely and, if necessary, delivered earlier. However, at present, it is not known whether offering such a scan to all women improves outcomes, and there are ongoing studies to assess this.

The scan aims to assess fetal growth and development. This is done by looking at the position and movements of the baby; measuring the size of the baby’s body parts (the head, abdomen and thigh bone length); estimating the fetal weight, based on these measurements; assessing the amount of amniotic fluid; measuring the blood flow from the baby to the placenta (through the umbilical cord) and within the baby; and checking the position of the placenta and its appearance.

SOURCES: PREGNANCY SICKNESS SUPPORT; NATIONAL CHARITY PARTNERSHIP; APTA CLUB; TOMMY’S ALWAYS ASK CAMPAIGN

Dr Anuj Chaturvedi, medical director and GP at HealthClic, says: Pregnant

SECOND TRIMESTER

DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice Our healthcare professionals answer your burning pregnancy questions

important to pay attention to your baby’s own routine, rather than an average amount of movement you’re often told to expect. Every baby is different. It’s essential that you start to recognise your baby’s own specific patterns of movement rather than comparing to others.

In general you start to feel movement from around 17 weeks. By 24 weeks the baby begins to have more definitive movements, and by 28 weeks there should be a discernible routine of movement and non-movement. It is this unique pattern that you should be aware of, and take note of any significant changes, too.

Your baby may keep relatively still most of the day, but then become very active at night time, or vice versa. Make sure that you keep track of this and write down any changes you’ve noticed. If your baby appears to be moving as much as they normally would, just be conscious of how these movements are building in strength. Try to stay as relaxed as possible as stress can have a number of effects on your unborn baby’s routine, development and wellbeing. If you have any concerns, speak to your GP or midwife.

ONE THIRD OF MOTHERS ARE CONFUSED ABOUT HOW MUCH THEY SHOULD EAT DURING PREGNANCY

60%

OF PREGNANT WOMEN WORRY THEY ARE WASTING THEIR MIDWIVES’ TIME BY RAISING HEALTH CONCERNS

I’M 25 WEEKS PREGNANT, BUT MY BABY DOESN’T SEEM TO BE MOVING A LOT. IS THERE SOMETHING WRONG? Angela Spencer, childcare expert and founder of Babyopathy, says: It’s more

%

OF EXPECTANT MUMS WEAR THE WRONG-SIZED BRA

Other questions I want to ask my midwife…

34% STOPPED EATING CERTAIN FOODS DURING PREGNANCY BECAUSE THEY DIDN’T KNOW WHETHER THEY WERE SAFE OR NOT

%

OF WOMEN PLAN THE BIRTH BEFORE THEY ARE EVEN PREGNANT

NAUSEA AND VOMITING IN PREGNANCY AFFECTS

70-80%

OF PREGNANT WOMEN TO SOME EXTENT

SECOND TRIMESTER

FOCUS ON

Pushchairs

Laura Slater, FOU N DER OF N U R SERY CON SU LTANC Y E AT SLEEP LOVE, R EVE AL S WHAT TO LOOK FOR WH EN CHOOSING YOU R FIR ST STROLLER uying a pushchair can be an emotional experience – imagining yourself pushing your new baby around can make it exciting, but it can also be daunting. This is a purchase that you are going to use almost every day for the next few years so it’s no easy decision.

Before you start to shop, think about what your requirements are. Ask yourself, do you have space restrictions? Are you in and out of the car and want a travel system that you can attach the car seat to? What is your style preference? What kind of terrain will you be using the pushchair on? Will it fit in your boot, and does it fit into your budget? With so many things to consider, try to pick the two most important elements and prioritise those.

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

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

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

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

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32 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

buggies are sold at a complete price with the majority of accessories included, while others only include the chassis and seat, and everything else is an extra.

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

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

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

Many new parents find themselves tight on storage space or simply require a buggy to make daily travelling easier. If this is you, look for a lightweight pushchair with a small fold, something you can store out of the way

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

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

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

You are going to be using your pushchair

SECOND TRIMESTER

Bugaboo Fox, From £979, bugaboo.com

Raffi pushchair, £599.95, bababing.com

Babyzen YOYO+, £544, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: SILVER CROSS COAST

SOME PRAMS ONLY INCLUDE THE CHASSIS AND SEAT – EVERYTHING ELSE IS EXTRA a lot so you need to enjoy how it looks – for many parents it is an extension of their own personal style. Many brands offer additional matching accessories, such as foot muffs, blankets and even personalised bumper bars and matching car seats, such as Joolz, which has a great range of Be Safe car seats. If this appeals to you, then select a retailer who can add all these items to your order. There are a fabulous array of colours on offer and some exciting limited edition styles on the market so you and your little one can stand out from the crowd. If you’re seeking something high-

fashion, look out for brands such as Cybex and Bugaboo who continue to collaborate with cool designers, for limited edition pushchairs.

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

Silver Cross Wave, £1100, silvercrossbaby.com

Mountain Buggy Urban Jungle, £449, eatsleeplove.co.uk

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SECOND TRIMESTER

WHAT TO WEAR Style guru and founder of Nine in the Mirror Amanda Woodward-Brown shares her tips for dressing your bump

EMBRACE COLOUR Whether you prefer bold brights or pastel shades, pregnancy doesn’t have to mean living in black. Stick to one striking piece – such as a dress, skirt or shoes – and team with neutral tones.

And relax

The second trimester is the perfect time to be practicing yoga. Tara Lee provides five e ercises to try at home

BE BOLD WITH ACCESSORIES At a time when your body is changing month by month, shoes, bags and jewels offer an easy way to tap into new-season trends.

INVEST IN UNDERPINNINGS Well-fitting lingerie is a necessity during pregnancy, update your top drawer with supportive styles that are as chic as they are comfortable.

GET GRAPHIC WITH PRINT A growing shape means you can carry off maximalist motifs – think wide stripes, tile prints or bold animal designs – just be sure to keep accessories understated with this look.

PLAY WITH PROPORTION Don’t be afraid to go oversized – an A-line silhouette is universally flattering and perfect for expectant dressing. It’s all about balance, so team voluminous tunics and dresses with slim-line trousers or bare legs and the highest heels you can wear.

COVER UP IN STYLE

Wordplay Design stamp print £32, noths.com

iCandy Orange Double £1,040, icandyworld.com

TIME TO SHOP:

GIFTS FOR TWINS

Every woman needs a few cool cover-ups in their wardrobe, and no more so than during pregnancy. Worn open, a biker jacket, cape or blazer can work with myriad outfits and will therefore be on high rotation in your line-up of maternity looks.

34 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

Maileg twins in a matchbox £24, giftsforlittleones.com

Cotton t-shirts (pack of two) and matching joggers (pack of two) From £9, next.co.uk

SECOND TRIMESTER

Babymoon boom One last trip before you become a party of three? These dreamy destinations are ideal for squeezing in some pre-baby relaxation

T

hese stretches help to release tension from the muscles and create space for your growing child, and the breathing techniques work on a deep psychological level to bring feelings of calmness and clarity. You can start the following exercises 14 weeks into your pregnancy. If you have any complications or injuries, please check with your doctor that it is safe.

• Breathing and connecting Sit cross-legged, using cushions if you want to. Rest one hand on your baby and the other hand in the centre of your chest. Take deep breaths in and out through the nose with your eyes closed and sit as tall as possible.

Feel the rise and fall of the abdomen, with the breath.

• Calf stretch Come onto all fours and stretch one leg behind, tucking the toes under. Reach back through the heel, feeling the stretch down the back of the leg. Change legs.

• Cat stretch Come onto all fours with the knees under the hips, the wrists under the shoulders. Tuck the chin into the chest as you round your spine and inhale. Repeat, hugging your baby in toward you on each exhale.

• Opposite arm and leg stretches Come on to your hands and knees. Inhale, and lift the right arm and left leg, and as you exhale release back to all fours. Repeat five times on each side.

• Child’s pose On all fours with the knees wider than the hips, bring your hips back towards the heels and rest the forehead on the floor. Hold as long as you like, breathing deeply.

THE SCARLET, CORNWALL Sea views? Check. Cliff-top hot tubs?

Check? Eco credentials? Check, check, check. scarlethotel.co.uk

LIME WOOD HOTEL & SPA, NEW FOREST Dine at the Hartnett & Holder restaurant and chill out at the Herb House Spa. limewoodhotel.co.uk

LA RÉSERVE GENÈVE, GENEVA On the serene shores of Lake Geneva, this unashamedly opulent hotel houses a fivestar spa and suites. lareserve.ch

Bugaboo Donkey Weekender From £1,360, bugaboo.com Twin baby carrier £149, weego.eu

Double wooden rocking horse From £3,900, stevensonbros.com

LINDOS BLU, RHODES Perched, tier-like, on a tranquil hillside, Lindos Blu is adults-only, so enjoy it while you can! slh.com/lindosblu

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 35

SECOND TRIMESTER

Say what?

Pregnancy; it’s not all plain sailing. And, as these stars reveal, some days are definitely better than others Pregnant me

“I did have morning sickness up to 15 weeks; it was all day, all night, just a non-stop nauseous feeling. I also cried a lot for the first few months, but since that 15-week point it was plain sailing.”

VOGUE WILLIAMS, TV PRESENTER AND DJ, MOTHER TO THEODORE

“In the first three months I felt really, really nauseous – I couldn’t even smell coffee and usually I love it. I went off all fragrances. I couldn’t really eat the things that I used to like… but I’d really crave salt and vinegar crisps.”

How I feel…

TAMARA ECCLESTONE, MODEL AND MOTHER TO FIFI

“When I was pregnant with my son Ray, I developed a craving to smell lavender. That’s weird, isn’t it?”

SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR, SINGER AND MOTHER TO SONNY, KIT, RAY AND JESSE, CURRENTLY EXPECTING HER FIFTH

“My favourite pregnancy treats were getting into bed at 7pm and long foot massages from my husband. Like everyone, I had food cravings, but they were different with each baby. I loved kiwis and potatoes – chips, crisps, mashed or roasted – I didn’t care.”

“At the beginning I just really craved apples which was a bit strange because I don’t tend to eat much fruit. But as time went on I loved tuna mayonnaise on toast with Marmite – I still actually quite like it now! I think it was the saltiness of it.”

GEORGIA JONES, MODEL AND MOTHER TO COOPER

36 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHELLE DREWES

CALGARY AVANSINO, WELLBEING EXPERT AND MOTHER TO AVA, MARGOT AND REMY

Made by Hand in Devon

10% off

your firs to

rder Q u ote B AB o r in sto Y TE N o nlin e re (o ffer ends 31.10.1 9)

the perfect place for a natural night’s sleep The finest organic and natural fibre mattresses made by hand in Devon, since 2001.

www.naturalmat.co.uk/baby

• •

natural mattresses contemporary furniture

• •

organic bedding gifts

Naturalmat Baby Boutique, 99 Talbot Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2AT

RUNNING HEAD

38 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2017

RUNNING HEAD

The third trimester

28-40 weeks

ABOUT ME How I’m feeling:

My cravings: Pregnancy niggles: Baby name ideas: Birth plan:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2017 | 39

THIRD TRIMESTER

What to expect ou e no reache the nal sta e of our pre nanc here s hat is oin on ith ou an our a

You…

Hooray! It’s the final stretch. Some mothers are ready to see the back of pregnancy, whereas some aren’t quite ready for this final trimester to be over.

In these last few months most mothers tend to put on around 11lb in weight and your abdomen is now accommodating up to three times what it’s used to. You are likely to feel increasingly tired, especially if you’re having difficulty sleeping at night – this is common as you get bigger. You may also be increasingly short of breath and notice your hands, feet and legs swelling.

Not only is your growing baby compressing all your abdominal organs but your digestive system is slowing, too. These factors combined mean that food takes longer to travel through the stomach and intestines, often causing symptoms of bloating, tummy ache and more likely than not, constipation.

You may find the occasional hardening of your stomach; these are known as Braxton

40 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

Hicks contractions – your body’s way of practising for birth. Some women barely notice them, while for others they are uncomfortable and can make them think labour has arrived early.

During this trimester you’ll begin to have more frequent antenatal check-ups, and your doctor or midwife will want to be checking the baby’s position, size, heartbeat and your blood pressure and urine for any signs of pre-eclampsia. You may also have a late scan if there is any concern about the size or position of the baby or placenta.

At some point in the last month it is common to feel your baby’s head gradually drop lower down into the pelvis and become ‘engaged’. When this happens you will feel less pressure against your ribs and diaphragm but more pressure on your bladder and perineum.

For some women this happens some weeks before labour starts, and for others the baby doesn’t drop until their labour has started.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and your baby • A lot changes during this last trimester; by 27 weeks your baby can open her eyes and is the size of a cauliflower, but as due date approaches she’ll end up the size of a small pumpkin.

• By the eighth month, your baby’s organs are pretty much fully developed, except for her lungs which will be ready for action at around 36 weeks. Between 31 and 35 weeks the lungs are maturing incredibly fast, her brain and nervous system are fully developed and her bones (with the exception of her skull) are hardening. She has a bit more growing to do. She is still covered in a white waxy substance called vernix, which is protecting her skin and keeping her warm, but the downy lanugo hair is beginning to shed. If you are having a boy, his testicals will descend from his abdomen into his scrotum.

• In this last month her lungs and intestine are fully formed. The intestine contains a sticky, dark green substance called meconium, which is passed as your baby’s first poo. Your midwife will check how engaged your baby is by determining how much of her head she can feel before it emerges into the pelvis. After 36 weeks, if your baby is not head down, it is much less likely to change position because of the limited space, so your doctor or midwife will want to discuss the possibility of trying to turn the baby. Your baby is considered term at 37 weeks.

THIRD TRIMESTER

The wish list

As you count those kicks and get ready for birth, these essentials will help you to feel more prepared for what’s to come I would like…

1

2

Maternity top, leggings, dress and skirt set £95, seraphine.com

5

3

Birth-Ease birthing ball and pump £22.95, amazon.co.uk

6

Attitude laundry detergent £11.15, planetorganic.com

9

13

Maternity jeans £42, topshop.com

11

Kicks Count app Free, App Store and Google Play

Harrods of London Oliver bear £18, harrods.com

Perineum Massage Oil £11.95, weleda.co.uk

8

Upsie Belly bump support band £69.95, bellybandit.com

14

Lucky Legs Cooling Leg Gel £19.50, mioskincare.com

Pregnancy pillow £137.39, shop.bbhugme.com

7

10

Baby bath £24.95, shnuggle.com

4

Velvet Olive baby shower card £2, noths.com

12

Cool It Mama Body Spritz £8.99, boots.com

15

Maternity and nursing dress £45, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Canvas trainers £60, superga.co.uk

16

Effective Birth Preparation: Your Practical Guide to a Better Birth £9.99, amazon.co.uk

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 41

RUNNING HEAD

MY DUE DATE WAS EARLIER THIS WEEK AND BABY IS SHOWING NO SIGNS OF ARRIVING. IS IT LIKELY THAT I’LL BE INDUCED?

pregnancy has been uncomplicated up to this point, then the short answer is no. If your pregnancy has been straightforward then the best option is to wait a little longer for labour to start spontaneously. In most cases, you won’t be offered an induction until you have reached 41-42 weeks, in accordance with the guidelines from the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE).

However, if you notice a reduction in fetal movement, or you begin to feel unwell, you need to alert your clinical team as soon as possible, and they will advise you if an induction is necessary.

If you have been diagnosed with any kind of medical condition or complication before or during your pregnancy, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, then it is highly likely that you will already have been induced anyway.

If not, then, your team may recommend an induction very shortly.

There are alternatives that can help to bring on labour before induction needs to be considered. Your consultant or midwife can administer a ‘stretch and sweep’ internal examination of your cervix, which can sometimes encourage labour naturally. You should also try and keep active, as being mobile can help. The best thing to do is carry on as normal; go for walks, eat and drink regularly and ensure you stay well-hydrated.

I know it is hard and extremely tiresome, but try to stay as relaxed as possible – and let your hormones do the work!

A FRIEND RECENTLY TOLD US ABOUT UMBILICAL CORD BLOOD BANKING, WHY SHOULD WE CONSIDER IT? r eff rew, hief s ientifi offi er at Cells4Life says: Your baby will be born into a world where medical science is progressing faster than ever. Not only can she expect to live beyond 100, she can also expect to remain healthy. Stem cells will play a pivotal role in this.

Your baby’s umbilical cord blood is a rich source of billions of stem cells that have the ability to repair damage, grow new tissue, and even treat lifethreatening diseases. These cells can be collected and stored at birth, so your baby has her own perfect stem cell match, ready and waiting for any treatments she may need in the future.

Cord blood stem cells are already used for more than 80 different conditions. There are currently over 6,000 different clinical trials investigating the application of stem cells to treat anything from spinal damage to Alzheimer’s, and there have already been significant breakthroughs using cord blood for brain disorders, like cerebral palsy and autism, which affect 1 in 400 and 1 in 100 children in the UK respectively. Storing your baby’s umbilical cord blood is like taking out a kind of ‘biological insurance’ against these conditions.

Collecting cord blood is quick, simple and totally safe, however it is only available a few moments after birth, so it is important you do your research and set up the service a month or so beforehand. The most crucial thing to look at is cell count, as this dictates how many treatments it could be used for.

IN MOST CASES, YOU WON’T BE OFFERED AN INDUCTION UNTIL YOU REACH 42 WEEKS 44 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

I’VE ALWAYS BEEN INTO FITNESS AND REGULARLY WORK OUT. I CONTINUED DOING A FAIR AMOUNT OF EXERCISE IN MY SECOND TRIMESTER BUT WITH EIGHT WEEKS TO GO UNTIL MY DUE DATE, SHOULD I STOP WORKING OUT? Dr Joanna Helcke, pregnancy and ostnatal fitness e ert, says: Absolutely not: keep going! As long as you are still keeping well in pregnancy and there are no contraindications, such as a very low-lying placenta, then you can carry on exercising right up to your due date or, believe it or not, beyond your estimated due date.

With your bump getting bigger in this last trimester you may well feel the need to slow down and take your exercise more gently – be sure to heed your body’s signals to ease off. Land-based exercise will start to feel tougher so you could switch to waterbased workouts which will give you a lovely feeling of lightness and will also stop you and – importantly – your baby from overheating.

The effect of water is to dissipate heat which means that your perceived rate of exertion is lower. In other words, your workouts will feel easier – just what you want to hear! Try aquanatal, aqua jogging and swimming but if pelvic girdle pain is a problem, be sure to avoid breaststroke as is will aggravate the condition.

Alongside your cardio, I would recommend carrying on with pregnancy tailored core stability work such as prenatal Pilates. This will help protect your lower back by keeping the deepest layer of abdominal muscles toned; it will also keep your spine mobile and postnatally will speed up recovery of the abdominal area encouraging realignment of abdominal separation.

SOURCES: VOUCHERCODESPRO.CO.UK; LETS-DOTHIS.ORG.UK; ONS.GOV.UK, FACTRETRIEVER.COM; BABYGAGA.COM

Rebecca Crowe, midwife on the Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Hospital, says: If your

THIRD TRIMESTER

DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice Our healthcare professionals answer your questions on late pregnancy

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ‘NATURAL’ AND ‘ACTIVE’ DELIVERY OF THE PLACENTA? Dr Shazia Malik, consultant gynaecologist and obstetrician at The Portland Hospital, says: The difference between the two is that with the natural delivery, no drugs are given. Your midwife will wait for the umbilical cord to stop pulsating before clamping the cord, and then will await spontaneous delivery of the placenta. This can take up to an hour, but can vary. Holding and feeding your baby, as well as passing urine or sitting upright, can help.

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

Other questions I want to ask my midwife…

%

OF PREGNANT WOMEN FEEL UNDER PRESSURE TO EAT LARGER MEALS

200

EXTRA CALORIES ARE ALL THAT’S REQUIRED DURING THE FINAL TRIMESTER

Latest stats show 54% of mothers in 2016 were 30 plus, up from 48% in 2006

%

OF NEW PARENTS SAY THEY ARE ‘OVERLY CAUTIOUS’

BY 28 WEEKS YOUR BABY’S EYES CAN OPEN, AND DURING THE THIRD TRIMESTER SHE WILL EVEN PRACTICE BLINKING

During the nine months between conception and birth, a baby’s weight increases by

3,000

million

THIRD TRIMESTER

FOCUS ON

Aches and pains THIS STAGE OF PR EGNAN C Y COM E S WITH SOM E PR E T T Y U N FORGIVING AILM ENTS. N UTRITIONIST Louise Pyne E XPL AIN S HOW DIE T CAN E ASE YOU R SYM P TOMS long with the inevitable emotional ups and downs, pregnancy comes with plenty of physical problems, too. From morning sickness to migraines, constipation to persistent back pain, carrying a baby is hard work. But by making small changes to your diet you could relieve your symptoms, and even prevent them in the first place, while nourishing your growing baby with the nutrients you both need.

A

MIGRAINES i agn si Migraines and headaches are common in pregnancy and often caused by changing blood sugar levels and an increase in blood volume. Magnesium, which is found in nuts and seeds and green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach, can help. This is because magnesium is a natural nerve relaxant and helps improve blood flow to reduce the likelihood of migraines.

SWOLLEN ANKLES i tassi Swelling in the ankles, legs and face (otherwise known as oedema) is most common during the third trimester as your body is producing more fluid and a greater blood volume in order to help your baby grow. Potassium is great at helping to keep fluid levels balanced and reducing excess water retention, so load up on potassium-rich foods, including bananas, avocados, nuts and seeds. Also avoid sodium-

46 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

filled foods, like ready meals and pre-packaged snacks, and stay away from the salt shaker as excess salt can cause water retention. Instead, flavour your food with herbs. Bye bye, cankles!

FATIGUE i r t in While your body is adapting to a growing baby, your hormones are constantly up and down, so it really comes as no surprise that energy levels dip during pregnancy. Another big cause of fatigue, particularly in the first trimester, is fluctuating blood sugar levels so it’s important to eat little and often in order to keep them balanced. Filling up on protein-rich foods can help, so incorporate plenty of eggs, quinoa, lean meats and fish into your diet.

omega-3-crammed oily fish like sardines and salmon can all reduce inflammation.

INDIGESTION BACK PAIN i Anti infla at ry n s Up to three quarters of pregnant women experience backache and the main cause tends to be increased levels of the hormone relaxin, which loosens joints and ligaments to prepare your body for birth. Added pressure on the pelvis also causes a strain on the back muscles and as your baby grows, back pain may get worse. While painkillers such as paracetamol can help (though there isn’t much you can take when pregnant), there are some natural alternatives. Anti-inflammatory foods, including cherries, which contain antioxidants called anthocyanins; ginger, which also has the added benefit of inhibiting nausea, and

i ta in Around 80 per cent of expectant mothers experience indigestion at some point and this uncomfortable condition can be caused by a few different factors. The increased pressure of your womb pressing on your digestive system is one of the main culprits, along with the relaxing of muscles in the oesophagus through maternal hormones, which sometimes allow acid to readily escape back out to the stomach. Certain foods can trigger indigestion, so be sure to avoid spicy, processed and fatty foods if you are prone to heartburn or indigestion. Make sure to spend time over meals instead of chowing down food quickly, and leave a gap of at least two hours between

THIRD TRIMESTER

Liquid Yoga bath soak, £22.10, mioskincare.co.uk

Dreamgeni maternity and nursing pillow, £49.99, johnlewis.com

Hand-held fan, £6, marksandspencer.com

POTASSIUM HELPS KEEP FLUID LEVELS BALANCED – LOAD UP ON BANANAS, NUTS AND SEEDS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

eating dinner and going to bed in order to give your body enough time to digest food properly. The amino acid glutamine can also be beneficial for a well-functioning digestive system, helping to maintain a healthy intestinal lining. Eggs, dairy and oats are the best sources so make sure to include these into meal plans.

CONSTIPATION i i r The hormone progesterone is responsible for slowing down digestion during pregnancy, and this, coupled with the increased pressure

on the pelvic area as your bump gets bigger, makes you more susceptible to constipation.

Cram fibre into your diet, as this food type helps to eliminate excess waste from your body. Good sources include brown rice, wholemeal bread and plenty of fruits and vegetables (aim to eat around seven to nine portions per day). Also make sure you drink at least one-and-a-half litres of water a day, to help food move smoothly through your system. You can flavour plain H20 with immune-boosting lemon and cucumber for an additional health boost.

Wooden massager, £10, thebodyshop.com

Bobble water bottle, £12.99, auteurlimited.co.uk

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 47

THIRD TRIMESTER

MATERNITY LEAVE CHECKLIST In most cases you can start your maternity leave any time from 11 weeks before your due date. Some women choose to work right up until the bitter end, while others like to have more time to themselves before baby arrives.

If along the way you decide you want to change your start date then you can, as long as you give your employer enough notice. To start your leave sooner, tell your employer at least four weeks before your new start date.

To start your leave later, tell your employer at least four weeks before your old start date.

Pregnancy massage Katherine Pye, head of spa at Bamford Haybarn, explains the benefits of a soothin treatment

HOW TO FILL YOUR TIME

Diono Radian 5 £225, uk.diono.com

Joie Every Stage £140, johnlewis.com

48 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TIME TO SHOP:

CAR SEATS

Cook up a storm in the kitchen Prepare a batch of meals for the freezer, that way, you’ll have plenty of hearty food ready for when you get home from hospital – cooking will be the last thing on your mind!

Pack your hospital bag Aim to pack your bag around the 37-week mark, which may be before or after you start your leave. Once you’ve stopped work, make sure you are all packed and good to go.

Make friends with your new car seat It’s important to know how to correctly fit the car seat in your car – you don’t want to be stuck in the hospital car park working it out.

Host a baby shower What better way to kill time than with friends and family, plates of cake and a heap of gifts?

Just don’t leave it too close to your due date, as you’re less likely to feel like party planning.

Make the most of being two It’s your last chance to be together as a couple, so enjoy this quiet time while you can.

Perhaps consider a last-minute babymoon, although keep in mind that you shouldn’t fly after 36 weeks. Depending on how close you are to your due date, don’t travel too far.

Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus £199, mamasandpapas.com

Maxi-Cosi AxissFix Group 1 £275, maxi-cosi.co.uk

THIRD TRIMESTER

a y s rst r You’ll want your new arrival’s nursery to look just as beautiful as the rest of your home – here are some brands to visit for ultimate inspiration

A

part from vision, all of your baby’s senses are stimulated in the womb. Touch is the first sensory system to develop, and is likely to be the most mature at birth. Studies show that by rubbing your belly, your baby will respond, so when you massage your tummy, you are sending powerful signals from your baby’s nerve endings to the brain, helping with her neural development as she grows in the womb.

Alongside aiding baby’s development, pregnancy massage can be beneficial for your own wellness. From improving circulation and the function of muscles and joints – essential in preparation for birth – to helping to calm and destress the mind, and relieving aches and pains, it is a valuable treatment to have when expecting.

Pregnancy massage is recommended any time during the second and third trimester. Avoid going in the early days of pregnancy as this is such a delicate time in your baby’s development and also a period where you may be feeling nauseous.

During the massage it’s important you’re in a safe position. I favour the natural fetal position or lying on your side. I like to concentrate on the hips, back, feet and abdomen – all areas that are holding more weight and therefore need special attention. Alongside reflexology, I also focus on yogic breathing, which helps mothers-tobe keep calm throughout their pregnancy.

Remember, always tell your therapist about any health concerns you may have before the treatment.

BEST FOR: WALLPAPER AND FABRICS hibouhome.com

BEST FOR: CLASSIC WOODEN PIECES boori.com/uk

BEST FOR: HERITAGE BRANDS harrods.com BeSafe iZi Go Modular £219.99, mothercare.com

Cybex Sirona i-Size £249.99, uberkids.com

BEST FOR: COOL CRIBS snuz.co.uk Hauck Varioguard Plus ISOFIX £279.99, hauckuk.com The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 49

THIRD TRIMESTER

Say what?

You’ve survived nine months of carrying baby, now it’s time to look ahead. These celebrities open up about impending birth and motherhood Pregnant me

“I had a mobile epidural both times even though I hadn’t wanted to have an epidural at all, so trust your midwife and when she says ‘you’ll need an epidural for this’ – trust her!”

KATE SILVERTON, NEWSREADER AND JOURNALIST, AND MUM TO CLEMENCY AND WILBUR

How I feel…

“Towards the end I was seven months pregnant, driving around London all night and the baby was just going mental, kicking and mega uncomfortable!”

“To give birth, however it happens, is a remarkable achievement.”

MARINA FOGLE OF THE BUMP CLASS, MOTHER TO LUDO AND IONA

“Being a mum is like joining a new club you never knew existed. From the minute they’re born, you put them before absolutely everything.”

KIMBERLEY WALSH, SINGER, ACTRESS AND MOTHER TO BOBBY AND COLE

“Trust your own instincts – you will find endless advice from friends and relatives but really you just have to do it your own way. Happy mama equals happy baby.”

JADE PARFITT, MODEL AND MOTHER TO JACKSON, TABITHA AND SILVER

50 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES/STEVE GRANITZ/WIREIMAGE; GETTY IMAGES/ MIKE MARSLAND/MIKE MARSLAND/WIREIMAGE

CAREY MULLIGAN, ACTRESS AND MUM TO EVELYN AND WILFRED

ADVERTORIAL

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Every day, Mustela is determined to help parents provide their babies with the care they need, guiding them harmoniously as they develop. So, when the brand discovered – through its own research – that 95 per cent of mums believe their baby’s skincare products should be formulated for their skin type, and would select a product based on this, Mustela wanted to help make the process easier.

It’s achieved this by creating a simple and informative online page that easily identifies your baby’s skin type: Normal, Dry, Very Sensitive or Atopic-prone Skin. This online

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tool also proposes products for your baby’s skin type, and provides advice based on the brand’s years of experience helping new mums. The unique portal encompasses a ‘how to diagnose your baby’s skin’ quiz, which determines the baby’s skin type and allows parents to discover which Mustela products are best suited for their baby’s skin.

After 10 years of scientific research and clinical trials, Mustela remains the first brand of its kind to carry out extensive studies on baby skin, allowing it to create the specific skin care range today. Its products contain only natural ingredients – all guaranteed to nurture the skin – which are hypoallergenic, hightolerance, and do not contain any parabens, phenoxyethanol, phthalates or alcohol. So, what are you waiting for, discover your baby’s skin type… mustela.co.uk/baby-skin-type

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The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 51

RUNNING HEAD

52 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2018

RUNNING HEAD

Birth

Labour and beyond

ABOUT ME & MY BABY Welcome to the world (name): Birth date:

boy / girl Time:

Place: Length of labour: Weight:

Length:

Hair colour:

Eye colour:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2017 | 53

BIRTH

What to expect our ue ate has arri e , an our ne a is nall here ere s hat is oin on ith ou oth after the eli er

You…

However you delivered, it’s called labour for a reason. Many women compare pregnancy to preparing for a marathon and the labour like the marathon itself. No matter how the marathon went for you, everyone needs to recover afterwards. It’s common to feel exhausted, stiff and generally sore after giving birth. If you had a vaginal delivery your perineum will probably be swollen and uncomfortable, and if there have been stitches (after a tear or an episiotomy) it may be a little painful for the first few days. Use an ice pack, a bag of frozen peas or cooling perineal pad to provide relief. It can burn when you pee, as the urine passes over the stitches. You can make this a lot more comfortable by using a jug to pour warm water over the area while you urinate. Don’t be a hero; take enough painkillers to leave you pain-free. Indeed, evidence has shown that you recover more quickly if you are not in pain.

Unfortunately most women tend to get

54 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

constipated because they’re dehydrated, haven’t eaten much over the last 24 hours and the nervousness of pushing a poo out of this area makes them ‘hold it in’. In addition, some pain-relief medications can make women constipated. So drink plenty of water, snack on high-fibre foods and take a stool softener.

Regardless of whether you’ve had a caesarean or vaginal delivery, you will bleed for four to six weeks after birth. This bleeding is the lining of the uterus shedding itself. For the first few days it will be heavy, generally much more so than a period, and you will need to wear heavy-duty maternity pads.

Most women are relieved to leave hospital but it is common to feel anxious. We advise getting back into your nightwear as soon as you get home. Although you don’t need to be confined to bed, being in your pyjamas will make you less likely to overdo it. And don’t leave the house for, at the very least, three or four days after leaving hospital.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and your baby • From the moment your baby is placed on your chest, her instinct will be to find a nipple and start feeding. Amazingly, in spite of not even being able to hold up their heads, most babies are capable of wriggling up their mother’s chests until they can find the nipple. Try to feed her as soon as you can.

Also, skin-to-skin contact has been shown to be comforting to her.

• Your baby will have two soft spots on the top and back of her head.

These fontanelles are where the baby’s skull bones have not yet met. They close quite quickly. Your baby may have a slightly elongated head from being squeezed through the birth canal. This settles in a few days. Caucasian babies tend to have blue eyes when they are born, if this is going to change, it usually does so in the first six months.

Asian or Afro-Caribbean babies usually have brown eyes at birth.

You may also notice that your baby may look a little cross-eyed. This is perfectly normal, as babies are not able to focus very well in the early days; this usually settles within a few weeks. The cord remnants still attached to baby will shrivel up and fall off within the first 10 days.

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BIRTH

The wish list

Before you rush off to deliver, be sure to pack these must-have supplies in your hospital bag I would like…

1

2

Smart Choices Femé Pad £19.99, amazon.co.uk

5

3

Eberjey sleep shirt £95, selfridges.com

6

Kit & Kin disposable nappies £3.99, ethicalsuperstore.com

9

10

13

Faux-fur slippers £35, thewhitecompany.com

Mama Mio Way To Glow Facial Mist £23, mioskincare.co.uk

7

Yoga nursing bra £34, bravadodesigns.com

Elle TENS+ TENS machine £99, babycaretens.com

4

8

Organic cotton babygrow set £26.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

11

Jersey robe £39.99, mamamoosh.co.uk

14

BeSafe iZi Go Modular £219.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

12

Joolz organic cotton blanket £50, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

15

Slip silk eye mask £45, net-a-porter.com

Aden + Anais bamboo swaddles set £42, harrods.com

Canon EOS 750D camera £599.99, canon.co.uk

16

Leather-trim cabin bag £145.99, uberkids.com

Burt’s Bees tinted lip balm £6, marksandspencer.com

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 57

RUNNING HEAD

Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt, founders of The Bump Class, say: Reflux occurs when the muscle at the top of a baby’s stomach that keeps milk in after it’s been swallowed is not quite strong enough, allowing milk and stomach acid to travel back up the oesophagus. This happens mildly in a lot of babies, causing them to vomit or ‘posset’ soon after a feed. For most babies this does not cause them any discomfort and they keep enough milk down not to lose weight.

However, when it is severe it can cause pain and discomfort or worrying weight loss.

Silent reflux is when the baby doesn’t vomit but the acidy milk keeps travelling up and down the oesophagus. This is often very painful and can be more difficult to diagnose.

These babies tend to scream excessively but don’t vomit any more than normal.

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

The treatments for both reflux and silent reflux are the same. Many are mild and require only simple measures to make baby more comfortable, while others require medication prescribed by doctors.

As miserable as it can be for both the baby and the mother, rest assured that the vast majority will grow out of it, most within the first six months or when the baby is established on solids, even without treatment.

WHAT IS TONGUE-TIE AND DOES IT NEED TO BE TREATED? Clare Byam-Cook, breastfeeding expert and author, says: Tongue-tie (or ankyloglossia) is a condition where the baby has a tight piece of skin (the frenulum) which tethers the underside of her tongue to the floor of her mouth.

This can cause a number of feeding problems, including preventing the baby from opening her mouth wide enough to latch on, sore nipples for the mother, difficulty in feeding effectively, swallowing air and making a clicking noise when feeding. But it’s important to note that these problems can also be caused by the baby latching on badly.

There are two main types of tonguetie. The first is anterior tongue-tie, where the frenulum is too short and tight and extends too far towards the tip of the tongue. This is clearly visible and will often be accompanied by a V-shaped notch at the tip of the tongue.

Posterior tongue-tie, however, is hidden under the lining at the base of the tongue. This is harder to diagnose but can be suspected if the tongue dimples down in the middle, or if the tongue appears to be very short. An anterior tongue-tie is treated by dividing it with a pair of sharp, sterile scissors. It’s a simple procedure which only takes a few seconds and is normally pain-free.

Tongue-tie can be treated on the NHS – you should ask your midwife for details. Do note, however, that a tongue-tie only needs treating if it is causing a problem. The difficulty for the mother is knowing whether her breastfeeding problems are caused by a tongue-tie or just a bad latch. For this reason, it’s best to seek a second opinion, preferably from your GP.

YOUR EMOTIONAL WELLBEING IS AS IMPORTANT – DON’T FORGET THAT 58 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A POSTNATAL CHECK, AND WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE? Dr Anuj Chaturvedi, medical director at HealthClic, says: Your first check-up will occur between six and eight weeks after giving birth. There may be a lot going on once your little one has arrived, but this is important and a good opportunity to begin the next phase of your life with your GP there to support you.

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

Your physical examination will involve being weighed, having your urine checked for kidney function, checking the healing process of any stitches and a discussion about bleeding or periods since delivery. Your doctor will also ask whether you have had a smear test recently and book you in for one if not.

Although it is recommended on the NHS to have a smear test once every three years, I recommend my patients have this done annually as there is great evidence to support this being more effective; you are twice as likely to catch early signs of ovarian or cervical cancers.

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

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

SOURCES: APTACLUB; TWINSUK.CO.UK; PERFECTPATIENTS.COM, ONS.GOV.UK

WHAT EXACTLY IS REFLUX, AND HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY BABY IS SUFFERING FROM IT?

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DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice Our healthcare professionals talk birth, postnatal checks and newborns

OF ALL TWINS BORN ARE IDENTICAL

300

IS THE NUMBER OF INDIVIDUAL BONES A BABY HAS AT BIRTH – BY ADULTHOOD WE HAVE JUST 206

Every three seconds a baby is born somewhere in the world

HOW DO I CREATE A SAFE SLEEP ENVIRONMENT FOR MY BABY? Katie Hilton, a qualified nurse, midwife and health visitor, says: Regardless of whether you are at home, out and about or away with family, good sleep habits are important for your baby’s health and emotional wellbeing.

The safest place for baby to sleep in the first six months is in a cot, moses basket or carrycot. Always be sure to place your baby to sleep on her back, with her feet at the foot of the cot. This helps to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Don’t be tempted to use a pillow; your baby needs a surface that is firm and flat. Position her out of direct sunlight, away from windows, radiators and lamps to keep her at a comfortable temperature. The room temperature should be 16-20˚C. If you find the room is cooler or warmer, dress baby accordingly, and remove or add a layer of bedding if needed.

Buy a room thermometer to ensure the room is always the right temperature. Don’t cover your baby with too much bedding or wrap them in lots of clothes. As a rule of thumb, don’t use more than you would yourself, and avoid quilts and duvets until your child is over a year old. Finally, make sure your baby’s sleep environment is smoke-free.

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Other questions I want to ask my midwife…

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OF WOMEN GAVE BIRTH AT HOME IN 2016

BY THE TIME OF BIRTH, A BABY’S BRAIN IS MADE UP OF MORE THAN 10 MILLION NERVE CELLS

10,951 MOTHERS HAD A MULTIPLE BIRTH IN 2015: 10,786 WOMEN HAD TWINS, 160 HAD TRIPLETS AND 5 HAD QUADS AND ABOVE

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FOCUS ON

Birth options AS YOU PR EPAR E TO WELCOM E YOU R N EW AR RIVAL, WE LOOK AT TH E DIFFER ENT CHOICE S WH EN IT COM E S TO L ABOU R s your pregnancy draws to an end, childbirth becomes an increasing, sometimes daunting, reality.

Deciding how to give birth is one of the most important decisions you will make while your baby is still inside you. To the uninitiated, the options can seem as bewildering as shopping for a stroller. But just as there is no ‘one travel system fits all’, neither is there one correct way to give birth. From living room floors to the surgeon’s table, aromatherapy to epidurals, there are more ways to bring a baby into the world than you can shake a Clear Blue stick at.

Here are just a few of the options.

A

HYPNOBIRTH Hypnobirthing is a birth education programme that teaches simple self hypnosis, relaxation and breathing techniques. Hypnobirthing is based on the belief that pain is not necessary and that a woman’s body is perfectly designed to give birth. It aims to free women from the fear and tension that often surrounds childbirth and enable the pelvic muscles to relax by triggering a physical and mental state of deep relaxation. For the best chance of success, it’s necessary to practise the techniques well in advance of your due date.

WATER BIRTH NATURAL BIRTH (OR ACTIVE BIRTH) It seems somewhat superfluous to refer to a process like childbirth as ‘natural’. Yet, in the case of labour, it means giving birth vaginally without medical intervention. Its advocates believe birth is a normal, healthy part of life, rather than a medical procedure.

During a natural birth, mothers are often encouraged to move around and try out different positions, using breathing exercises and relaxation techniques in place of drugs.

This can have the advantage of feeling more relaxed and in control. Natural births can be extremely empowering. However, for some women it can be hugely disappointing if things don’t go to plan. Although many women aspire to a natural birth, it’s important to realise they are not always possible and intervention is never a mark of failure.

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Once the preserve of home births and midwife units, water births are becoming increasingly mainstream and many hospitals now have birthing pools. Larger than a normal bath, pools are deep enough for the woman to be immersed – with space for a partner or husband to jump in too if desired. Being in warm water can help a woman’s muscles to relax, which can reduce pain and speed up labour. Research suggests that being in water can also reduce the risk of tearing to the perineum, and many women feel that giving birth in water provides their baby with a more gentle transition to life outside the womb.

However, being submerged for hours can become uncomfortable, and might prevent the mother from becoming mobile, so doctors usually advise women to enter the pool when they are at least 4cm dilated.

PAIN RELIEF Dr Nicholas Parry, obstetric anesthetist at the Portland Hospital explains the options available to you

TENS machines Its full name is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Small stimulators called electrodes are taped to your back and pulse with gentle electrical currents. The currents interfere with the pain signals from your spinal cord to your brain. TENS machines can be hired or bought, and can be very effective, providing you put it on early enough. You can walk around with the TENS attached, but can’t get into the birthing pool.

Gas and air (Entonox) This is a clear gas – half nitrous oxide and half oxygen – breathed in through a mouthpiece. It will not take the pain away, but it will help you cope more effectively.

It can be used at any stage of labour.

Pethidine injections These can take the edge off labour pains, and make you sleepy. However, there can be side effects. If pethidine is given towards the end of labour, it may not have had a chance to wear off and may affect the baby’s breathing at delivery.

Epidurals This is a safe procedure that allows the team to place local anesthetic and other medicines near the nerves that carry the pain sensations. The main risk is the epidural might not be fully effective, and the patient may develop a headache.

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chance of having an instrumental birth, such as a forceps or ventouse delivery.

About 1 in 100 women experience a severe headache following an epidural. More serious complications are rare.

CAESAREAN SECTION

BEING IN THE WATER CAN HELP MUSCLES RELAX, WHICH CAN SPEED UP LABOUR PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: BECKY DICKINSON

MEDICATED BIRTH For some women, the thought of giving birth without drugs is akin to having a wisdom tooth extracted with a pair of pliers. Fortunately, pain-relieving drugs are available. The most common form of pain relief is Entonox (gas and air) which is inhaled through a mouthpiece and can take the edge off contractions.

Analgesics such as pethidine and other opiates provide a stronger dose of pain relief.

Pethidine is usually given by injection into the buttocks. It can help women relax and cope with the pain of labour. It can also cause

drowsiness and some women find it makes them feel nauseous or out of control. If given too close to delivery, pethidine may make the baby sleepy and slower to feed. Total – or almost total – pain relief can be given in the form of an epidural. Epidurals and spinal blocks are regional anaesthetics. A small tube is inserted via a needle between the vertebrae in the lower back.

Epidurals produce a loss of sensation, although pressure can still be felt. These medications can make it difficult to push at the end of labour, so there is an increased

In the UK, around one in four babies are delivered by an abdominal operation. There are two kinds of caesareans: planned (elective) and unplanned (emergency). A planned caesarean is when the decision is made before labour starts, usually this is for medical reasons or because the mother is considered high risk.

There are many reasons why your doctor may suggest a c-section, either before or during labour. The most common reasons are because baby is sitting in the breech position, because you are expecting twins, or because of placenta praevia, where a low-lying placenta partially or completely blocks the womb opening. Unexpected problems can also develop during or before labour which means the baby needs to be born quickly by emergency c-section. The most common reasons for an emergency c-section are fetal distress, failure to progress because the cervix is not dilating as it should, or excess bleeding.

Unless there is an unusual situation, you will be awake during the surgery. Before surgery starts you will have an intravenous line inserted and the epidural will be placed in the operating theatre. A c-section involves major abdominal surgery and recovery can take several weeks or longer. While caesareans can sometimes be the safest means of birth, some babies may retain fluid in their lungs which would have been squeezed out in the birth canal. It is still possible for a woman who has had a caesarean, to give birth vaginally in the future.

HOME BIRTH For healthy women with a low risk pregnancy, home can offer a safe, comfortable and relaxing and environment in which to give birth. Women who have a home birth are more likely to have continuity of care and get to know their midwife during the pregnancy.

If complications arise during a home birth, mother and baby will be transferred to hospital by ambulance. For low-risk women having a second or subsequent baby, a home birth is thought to be as safe as a hospital delivery. However, for low risk women having a first baby, a home birth is slightly less safe than a hospital birth. Women who are at increased risk of complications will be advised against the idea altogether.

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PUSH PLAYLIST

Music is a great distractration and could even help alleviate anxiety in labour. Could these apt tunes be next on your Spotify playlist?

IT STARTED WITH A KISS Hot Chocolate Reminisce about how the humble beginnings of you and your partner’s love has led to this moment. A word of warning, though, you’re probably best off playing this early on. Naturally, as labour progresses, you’ll probably want to drag him across the bed and throttle him.

Baby’s first bath

Susanne emic of udd edry shares her tips for a successfu first dip

IF YOU LEAVE ME NOW Chicago The perfect song for mothers and babies who would like things to remain between the two of them for a little while longer.

Although singing, ‘Oooh oh no, baby please don’t go’ at the top of your lungs may give your midwife cause for concern.

UNDER PRESSURE Queen & David Bowie Ahem. Not only does this pay homage to one of British pop’s greatest collaborations of all time, you have to admit, the lyrics are pretty spot on, too.

PUSH IT Salt-N-Pepa For when you need that extra bit of encouragement in the second stage – it may well raise a smile ever so fleetingly before the next contraction knocks it right off your face.

I’M COMING OUT

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: SALLY COFFEY

TIME TO SHOP:

BABY SLEEPWEAR

Diana Ross Let baby’s entry to the world be all-singing and all-dancing with this epic disco tune that will have everyone in the birthing room singing along.

Harrods of London cashmere playsuit £99.95, harrods.com Cotton babygrow £19, welovefrugi.com

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Cotton one-piece £14.95, gap.com Cotton winter sleep suit £55.99, ergopouch.co.uk

Cotton sleeping bag £69,petit-bateau.co.uk

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To treasure Be sure to capture those precious early days. Photographers usually recommend a newborn shoot takes place between five and 12 days old

B

athing a new baby is a daunting task that many find stressful in the beginning. After all, wrestling with slippery babies and cold bathroom floors is rarely covered in the parenting manuals!

• Be prepared Before you start, make sure you have everything you need to hand. You’ll need a soft, warm towel, nappy changing items, something to kneel on, a changing mat and liner, plus clothes to dress baby in.

• Check the temperature Make sure the room is warm enough, and check the water is around 37˚C. Give it a swirl to disperse any hot spots and don’t overfill – a few inches of water is fine.

• Gently lower baby in to the bath The trick to keeping baby happy is minimising discomfort, often caused by being cold. When you undress her, start at the bottom. Remove her nappy and clean her bottom, then remove the rest of her clothes and move to the warm water. Use one arm to support baby’s shoulders and neck, and hold the outside arm with your hand. Place your other hand under the bottom and lower gently into the bath. Once secure, remove that hand and use it to scoop water onto her body. Maintain eye contact to comfort – and enjoy the moment. Bath time really can be the best part of the day and if you’re relaxed, baby will be too. Remember to keep it short – babies can lose body heat quickly, so five minutes is fine.

HELEN BARTLETT helenbartlett.co.uk

BOGGIO STUDIOS boggiostudios.com

SWEET BAMBINI BY MARIA MURRAY sweetbambini.co.uk

Cotton all-in-one £14, mamasandpapas.com

Cotton set £61, stellamccartney.com

Cotton sleepsuit £20, boden.com

SUE GREETHAM suegreetham.com Cotton sleepsuit £31, babymori.com

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Say what?

From ‘magical’ to ‘shocking’ and everything in between, these stars reveal how labour and birth really are different for everyone “Before I had Rex, I was excited but not prepared for how it would all take place. With Honey, I took the time to do hypnobirthing and the experience was magical. I had her in the water and the breathing techniques allowed me a completely different experience to my first.”

Me & my baby

FEARNE COTTON, TV AND RADIO PRESENTER, AND MOTHER TO REX AND HONEY

“I was excited but a little apprehensive, as however many books you read, nothing can quite prepare you for labour.

Both my babies presented ‘back to back’ which was complicated – but having my amazing midwife, Jenny Smith, on hand meant I was able to deliver naturally both times.”

How I feel…

KATE SILVERTON, NEWSREADER AND JOURNALIST, AND MUM TO CLEMENCY AND WILBUR

“I spent a huge amount of time learning about deep breathing and contractions and less time talking about changing nappies. The birth only lasts a matter of hours – the aftermath goes on a lifetime.”

RICHARD CURTIS, WRITER, DIRECTOR AND FATHER TO SCARLETT, JAKE, CHARLIE AND SPIKE

“When I had a tough birth with my son, I felt shattered both physically and emotionally as I had high expectations, and when those didn’t materialise, it hit me hard. When it came to Willow, I felt more prepared for the tough time that might come my way, so mentally I was stronger.”

“Ryan and I both come from big families, so we’re looking forward to having more children. Having a baby is such a wonderful experience and it’s so beautiful to watch them grow up” BLAKE LIVELY, ACTRESS, MOTHER TO TWO DAUGHTERS, JAMES AND INEZ

64 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

NATALIE PINKHAM, TV PRESENTER AND MOTHER TO WILF AND WILLOW

ADVERTORIAL

Colief Infant Drops will break down lactose in your baby’s milk, whether it’s breast or bottle

Is it colic?

CONTIN UOUS CRYING COU LD M E AN YOU R BABY IS SU FFERING FROM COLIC . LUCKILY, TH ER E’S AN E ASY SOLUTION hen you’re a parent, nothing is more distressing than hearing your baby continuously cry. However, it’s essential to remember that crying is your baby’s main form of communication – their excessive cries could be a way of letting you know they’re suffering from colic. Although it can be worrying, colic is in fact common.

Thankfully symptoms of colic, if related to temporary lactose intolerance, which can happen as your baby’s digestive system develops, can be easily treated with Colief® Infant Drops. The drops contain lactase, a naturally-occurring enzyme that helps relieve the symptoms by breaking down the lactose in milk, making it easier to digest. Simply add the drops to your baby’s feeds, either in expressed breast milk or formula, 30 minutes before feeding to allow time for the drops to work.

Temporary lactose intolerance is common in many babies as their digestive systems develop. Topping up a baby’s lactase levels is a good first step to tackling the symptoms naturally, as it’s the most commonly prescribed treatment for colicky symptoms

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

W

and is widely recommended by health visitors.

Colief® Infant Drops is a natural product which pharmacists recommend to new parents to test for temporary lactose intolerance. It works by breaking down the lactose in baby’s milk, whether that’s from breast or bottle.

Having worked in the healthcare profession as a qualified health visitor and lecturer for more than 20 years, Dawn Kelly is a member of the Colief Expert Panel and recommends Colief® Infant Drops when the symptoms of colic appear. Dawn advises that topping up your colicky baby’s lactase levels is a sensible first step to tackling the telltale symptoms of colic naturally.

Colief® Infant Drops is available in supermarkets and pharmacies nationwide and online, as well as at colief.com Priced £11.99 for 7ml and £15.99 for 15ml.

TOP TIPS FOR DEALING WITH COLIC : 1. Although it is extremely distressing, the most important thing to remember if your baby is affected by colic is to remain calm.

2. Introduce a soothing routine around the time of the day when your baby’s colic is usually at its worst. You’ll find that this will typically be in the evenings.

3. Keep a log of the times when your baby’s colic is at its worst – you may be able to find a pattern associated with any triggers, allowing you to understand better how to ease these symptoms.

4. Try a one-week trial of Colief® Infant Drops to help diagnose whether sensitivity to lactose could be the problem. You could relieve the symptoms within a few days and be able to continue enjoying this special time with your newborn.

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 65

RUNNING HEAD

80 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2017

RUNNING HEAD

��

eeks

Life with a newborn

ABOUT ME & MY BABY How I’m feeling:

Best bits: Worst bits: First bath:

First smile:

Average number of nappies per day:

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0-12 WEEKS

What to expect s ou et rea to take our ne orn ho e for the rst ti e, here s hat s in store once ou lea e hospital

Your baby…

Your baby will arrive home in a car seat, but once home, she needs to sleep flat on her back. She will need to be with you for the first few weeks, at least, rather than in a room on her own. Newborn babies are often very noisy. Their airways have been filled with fluid while in the womb and, although most of this will have cleared with the first few breaths, there tends to be a lot of coughing, snuffling and sneezing in the early days, as she tries to clear the remaining fluid. Although the sounds are sometimes worrying for mothers, babies are very adept at clearing their airways. Many mums worry about their babies choking on their spit up if they put them to sleep on their backs, but babies turn their heads to the side to vomit, even during their sleep.

The first couple of weeks is usually a magical time. Providing baby is well, she will spend most of the time sleeping, waking every three to four hours for a feed. After a feed, she will spend a short amount of time awake before

68 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

falling asleep again. Don’t worry too much about getting your baby into a routine in these early weeks. Do encourage her to have a good feed, though, and not fall asleep on the breast or bottle as she won’t have taken much in and will wake after a short period to feed again.

The umbilical cord stump will usually fall off when your baby is seven to 10 days old; keep it clean with cooled boiled water and cotton wool until then. A newborn’s nappy may need changing 10 to 12 times a day.

At around two weeks, baby will start to wake up, becoming more fun but also more demanding. You will have to wind her after every feed, and she may develop colic or reflux. At around six weeks your baby will finally give you a well-earned smile, start to go longer between feeds and you will both have a postnatal check with your GP. At eight weeks baby has her first set of immunisations, and around this time she will be able to hold her own head up, unsupported.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and you • The first night at home with your baby is a whirlwind of emotions.

You’re proud, relieved and happy, but also thoroughly exhausted.

Encourage your partner to be with you during the night feeds when you might be feeling nervous and out of your depth.

• During the first few days your baby might lull you into a false sense of security by sleeping lots and feeding the whole time. Be mindful that around days three to five your milk comes in and the ‘baby blues’ can hit, so be prepared for a flood of unexplained emotions – one minute you might be feeling elated, and the next, totally overwhelmed.

• You are also likely to be feeling extremely tired, so make sure you sleep when your baby sleeps during the day. But remember, the fear of severe fatigue is often far worse than the reality, so try not to worry about it too much.

• You may also feel teary for no reason, sweaty at night (which is to do with the hormonal changes as your milk comes in), and horrified by the way you look naked. Leave it a few weeks and the view will be a lot better! By six weeks you should get the green light to start gentle exercise, and six weeks is also the time when many mother describe feeling ‘human’ again. By 12 weeks, a corner is well and truly turned.

happy tums. happy mums.

Care Co-lactase Infant drops Feed milk immediately after adding Co-lactase

Sufficient for 60 feeds

Reduces the lactose content in milk

Can be used from birth onwards

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Colic – Treatment, NHS Choices: “Lactase is an enzyme that helps break down a sugar called lactose, which is found in milk. Your baby may have a temporary problem digesting lactose, which could contribute to their colicky symptoms.” (2015)¹

www.allthecareyouneed.co.uk You should see an improvement after 1 week. If symptoms persist after this time please speak to your Healthcare Professional.

Reference: 1. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Colic/Pages/Treatment.aspx Thornton & Ross Ltd, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD7 5QH. Telephone 01484 842217.

Care + and the lozenge device are trademarks of Thornton & Ross ltd.

0-12 WEEKS

The wish list

From sleep essentials to nursing accessories, these baby basics wi see you throu h those first few months I would like…

1

2

3

Cotton babygrow and bodysuit £71, stellamccartney.com

5

Water Wipes (pack of 60) £2.70, boots.com

6

SnüzPod 3-In-1 Bedside Crib £199.95, buggybaby.co.uk

9

13

Aden + Anais cotton sleeping bag £29.95, harrods.com

Jellycat ‘Bashful Bunny’ soother £16.50, johnlewis.com

7

Bamboo washable nursing pads £15.99, hotmilklingerie.com

10

Colief infant drops £19.99, boots.com

4

8

Leather changing bag £199, jemandbea.com

11

Nursing top £26, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

14

Harrods of London cotton mittens £8.95, harrods.com

12

Baby Nappy Cream £4, childsfarm.com

Rocking nursing chair £795, olliella.com

15

Moses basket £99, mobauk.com

Gold-plated necklace £119, mercimamanboutique.com

16

Velour babygrow £68, mariechantal.co.uk

Prince Lionheart wipes warmer £29.99, uberkids.co.uk

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RUNNING HEAD

I WANT TO TRY EXPRESSING MILK. HOW EARLY CAN I DO THIS AND WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO GET STARTED?

Melanie Lawson, founder of Bare Biology, says: If there’s a time in your life when you need to make sure you’re eating well, it’s during those first few months after your baby is born. Here are my top 10 tips for a healthy diet: • Drink plenty of water – more than usual.

Breastfeeding can cause dehydration.

• Go easy on the tea and coffee. It can affect baby’s sleep (gulp!) and the caffeine can make you feel even more anxious.

• Eat regularly, especially after you’ve had a nap when your blood sugar will naturally dip.

Snack on full-fat natural yogurt with seeds, nuts and fruit, or oatcakes with coconut oil.

• Try to consume oily fish several times a week, or take a supplement to promote a healthy mind and ensure your breast milk is rich in DHA for baby’s brain development.

• It’s easier said than done, but try to resist sugar. It’s tempting when you’re emotional and tired, but it can make your baby gassy and will give you terrible blood-sugar spikes, leading to unsteady emotions.

• Eat lots of slow-release carbs such as lentils, chickpeas and beans. A quick lunch idea is a tin of chickpeas, tuna, salad leaves and tomatoes with some olive oil, salt and lemon.

• Have eggs for breakfast, or something high in protein or slow-release carbs, such as porridge with full-fat milk.

• Eat meat and fish if possible, with lots of vegetables, including dark leafy greens.

• Limit your alcohol to a few glasses a week.

Wait until you’ve finished breastfeeding for the evening in order to limit the amount of alcohol in your breast milk.

• Don’t restrict calories! You’ll lose weight naturally if you eat normally and healthily.

WHEN CAN I START GETTING BACK INTO EXERCISE, AND WHAT AM I SAFE TO DO? Camilla Lawrence, lead women’s health physio at Six Physio, says: For the first six to eight weeks, focus on gradually getting back to walking, start small with five- to 10-minute strolls, and slowly increase the distance over a few weeks. Also get going on your pelvic floor exercises; try doing them every time you feed your baby.

If you’re struggling with these or any incontinence or prolapse symptoms, be sure to talk to your midwife or visit a women’s health specialist.

At around six to 12 weeks, after your six-week check, start working on rebuilding your core strength with a specialised personal trainer or postnatal Pilates or yoga class. You can also start to increase your cardiovascular exercise but still keep it low-impact at this stage (for example, fast walking, swimming, cycling or using the cross trainer).

When your baby is three months old, continue building on your core strength and conditioning work, and if you’re pain free with no pelvic floor problems, you can start returning to impact exercise again, such as jogging, aerobics, tennis and netball.

I always advise getting a full postnatal body check by a women’s health physio from six weeks post-partum. This should include a detailed assessment of your posture, back, pelvis, pelvic floor and abdominal muscles, identifying any problem areas and how to fix them. They’ll also give you a safe and individualised programme to help get you back to the fitness levels you want.

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Sioned Hilton, Lactation expert for Medela UK, says: It’s advisable to wait until after your baby has her three-week growth spurt, so ideally from four-weeks postnatal.

The early weeks are key to getting your breastfeeding established with lots of practise and support to build and maintain milk supply.

However, if baby is not feeding well or either of you are experiencing difficulties, it might be advised that you express to assist during this phase. Please seek advice from your midwife, or breastfeeding support group. Mums with babies who need hospitalisation need to express from birth to initiate and build supply in preparation for when baby can breastfeed.

As for when to express, there’s no right or wrong time – it’s based upon your baby’s feeding pattern. Have realistic expectations that if you feed baby often, every one to three hours, your supply is fine tuned to meet their needs and you may not have much milk available for spare. If you’re away from your baby, or your partner is giving a feed, you can express at this time. Remember the night feeds are critical for milk production – so if you’re not feeding while your partner helps out, ensure you pump to regulate milk supply.

Choosing the right pump for your demand is important, so make sure you research the options. A double pump is the most time efficient, whilst research also supports that when you express both breasts simultaneously you get an average of 18 per cent more milk than when you single pump. However, a single pump is an ideal option if you express occasionally when the majority of the feeds with baby are on the breast.

Here are some of my expressing tips: • Find a time suitable for you both – early morning, mid-afternoon is a good start • Pump only one breast initially just in case baby wakes earlier than expected, once you have more idea of time and patterns you can express both breasts • Relax and put your feet up • Pump when baby is feeding from the other breast • Set a comfortable vacuum and check breast shield size – a shield too big or small can hinder milk flow • Be realistic in volumes. Ranges vary between 54-234mls of milk per feed – a couple of ounces are amazing if your baby feeds often.

SOURCES: REDCASTLE.FR; THE BABY SHOW; ONS.GOV.UK; TOMMY'S; CHANNEL MUM; BEPANTHEN

WHAT ARE THE BEST FOODS TO BE EATING AS A NEW MUM?

0-12 WEEKS

DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice n those first wee s it’s natura to uestion everythin e put some of yours to our hea thcare professiona s

WILL CAFFEINE IN COFFEE AFFECT MY BREAST MILK? Professor Amy Brown, author of The Positive Breastfeeding Book, says: There are no set rules as to how your baby will be affected by caffeine. Like adults, some babies are more affected by it than others. Caffeine does transfer to your breast milk, but the good news is, not in huge amounts. Although it varies slightly, only around one per cent of what you drink goes to your milk. So, if you’re having one or two small cups of coffee, it’s unlikely to affect your baby. Peak levels can be found in your milk roughly an hour after consumption, so if you like a morning coffee, drink it after a feed.

Babies are more able to deal with caffeine as they get older. Very young babies can take more than 80 hours to metabolise caffeine, so newborns might be affected. However, as they develop, they get better at it: by the time they’re six months old, they’ll metabolise caffeine in as little as two to three hours.

If your baby is affected by caffeine, they’ll be fussy and likely to not sleep well. Of course, this is all behaviour interpretation: it could be down to any number of things, even simply being a baby. If you’re worried, try cutting it out for a week and see what happens. With any luck, it won’t be the caffeine.

IS THE NUMBER OF HOURS NEWBORNS CAN SLEEP IN A DAY

1 in 3

NEW PARENTS FEEL UNDER PREPARED FOR THEIR NEW ARRIVAL

OLIVER HAS BEEN THE MOST POPULAR BABY BOY NAME SINCE 2013

Other questions I want to ask my midwife…

OF MUMS HOPE FOR A GIRL, WHILE 13% WANT A BOY

60,000 BABIES ARE BORN PREMATURELY IN THE UK EACH YEAR

HALF OF WOMEN FEEL PRESSURE TO ‘BOUNCE BACK’ IN JUST TWO MONTHS

0-12 WEEKS

FOCUS ON

Breastfeeding FEEDING E XPERT Clare Byam-Cook TALKS BE T TER SU PPORT FOR N EW MOTH ER S, AN D HOW YOU CAN FIN D TH E RIGHT L ATCHING TECH NIQU E FOR YOU aving taught breastfeeding classes since 1989, it continues to surprise me that the UK still has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the Western world. Statistics show that about 30 per cent of women won’t even attempt to breastfeed their babies, and of the 70 per cent who do try, roughly half of them give up within the first six weeks. Numerous surveys show that these mothers are giving up because they find it too painful or difficult, rather than because they are unaware of the health benefits.

H

SUPPORTING NEW MOTHERS I wholeheartedly believe we ought to be more realistic when teaching breastfeeding in antenatal classes so there is less emphasis on discussing the benefits of breastfeeding and more on teaching mothers how to do it and what to do if things go wrong. There seems to be a fear that if we discuss all the potential breastfeeding problems that might arise, mothers will be put off from even trying.

Unfortunately, this policy means most mothers assume that because breastfeeding is natural, it will also be easy. It then comes as a shock if they find it difficult and worse still, they have no idea how to overcome common problems such as sore nipples or difficulty in latching. I also think it’s important to give mothers more information on all the breastfeeding aids that have been designed to enhance the whole experience.

And finally, we should abandon the ‘all or

74 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

nothing’ approach which leads mothers and many health professionals to believe that it’s either breastfeeding exclusively or not at all.

Surely it’s better, for those mothers who are struggling, to try combination feeding, rather than feeling that if they give even one bottle of formula to their baby they have failed and should give up breastfeeding completely.

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

The current thinking is that the mother should align her baby’s nose in front of her nipple and then wait for her to open her mouth wide and latch on of her own accord.

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

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

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

• Slide your hand underneath your breast and place the balls of your thumb and middle finger level with your nipple, on the outside of the areola.

• Gently squeeze your breast until your nipple protrudes.

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

0-12 WEEKS

Lansinoh 3-in-1 Breast Therapy packs, £12.99, mothercare.com

What to Expect When You're Breastfeeding...

And What If You Can’t? £12.99, amazon.co.uk

Silicone nipple shields, £3.99, nuk.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

IT’S BETTER, FOR MOTHERS WHO ARE STRUGGLING, TO TRY COMBINATION FEEDING will often become shorter.

I recommend that you do your research before baby is born. Read books which reflect the way you would like to breastfeed your baby and keep an open mind about things like feeding on demand versus a strict routine.

You may well change your views once your little one is born!

Ask other mothers if they are able to recommend any equipment that they found helpful, such as breast pumps and nipple shields, and ask for their recommendations for good breastfeeding counsellors or drop-in

clinics in your local area. If the experts, such as your midwife or health visitor, can’t show you how to breastfeed successfully, please don’t feel a failure if you give up. The most important thing is that your baby is well fed and that you are both happy.

Most importantly, try not to give up on the whole process too soon. For most new mothers, breastfeeding problems are only temporary and if you can work your way through them, you and your baby will eventually have many happy months of breastfeeding ahead of you.

Lansinoh HPA Lanolin nipple cream, £10.99, mothercare.com

Medela Swing breast pump, £94.99, medela.co.uk

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0-12 WEEKS

NURSE & CHILL

When those late-night feeds dawn, make sure you’ve got something to watch. Here are our box-set picks for your viewing pleasure

Swim time

Paul Thompson, founder of Water Babies, e p ains the benefits of taking to the pool with your little one QUEER EYE In terms of the feel-good factor, this NetflixOriginal can’t be beaten. Follow the Fab Five as they makeover more than just their charges, homes, wardrobes and lifestyles.

TOM CLANCY’S JACK RYAN Follow CIA analyst Ryan (John Krasinski) as a series of discoveries catapault him from his desk job into a international cat-and-mouse game in this new Amazon Prime thriller.

THE CROWN For something a little closer to home, let Queen Elizabeth II reign the screen once more in the latest instalment from this Netflix-original biographical drama.

PARKS AND RECREATION Amy Poehler plays a local councilwoman trying to make a difference in this comedy classic with a cast of now-famous stars.

Stream every episode on Amazon Prime.

JACK WHITEHALL: TRAVELS WITH MY FATHER

TIME TO SHOP:

BABY MONITORS

Netflix has released a second series of this travel documentary meets shambolic road trip, focusing on the popular comedian and his dad, Michael as they take the gap-year route across South East Asia.

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Babymoov Yoo-Feel £159.99, babymoov.co.uk

Motorola MBP36XL video baby monitor £179.99, motorolastore.com Audio Baby Monitor 400 £29.98, shop.bt.com

Summer Infant Babble Band Wearable Audio Monitor £39.99, mothercare.com

VTech Safe & Sound 2.8 video monitor £99.99, argos.co.uk

0-12 WEEKS

Little bundles No longer just for swaddling, these multi-purpose muslins are perfect for everything, from crib sheets to breastfeeding scarves

D

id you know, babies have the natural ability to swim? This is due to two intelligent reflexes: the swimming reflex and the dive reflex. The former means baby will move her arms and legs in a swimming motion when supported in the water tummy-side down; the latter means your baby can hold her breath and open her eyes while underwater.

These reflexes are strongest in the first six months of life. The NHS advises you can take your baby swimming any time before and after her immunisations – so it’s never too soon to get her in the pool, as long as the water’s warm enough (above 30˚C for a baby older than 12 weeks or heavier than 12lbs, and 32˚C if they’re younger or smaller).

Baby swimming originally evolved out of a desire to ensure they were safe and confident in water. However, the exercises used to teach this confidence – gentle rocking, reaching for objects, kicking movements and learning to respond to commands – also provide stimulation for your baby’s brain.

In the first year of life, the brain develops more rapidly than at any other time, and swimming with your baby can have an extremely positive effect on this development – even more reason to take to the water with your little one as early as possible.

BEST FOR: A RANGE OF PRINTS adenandanais.co.uk

BEST FOR: FEEDING ESSENTIALS mamadesigns.co.uk

BEST FOR: NEWBORN GIFTS thelittleartcollection.co.uk Angelcare AC315 baby movement monitor, with video £229.99, mothercare.com

Whisbear monitor £99.90, johnlewis.com

BEST FOR: SUSTAINABLE BUYS babymori.com Avent Smart Baby Monitor £163.95, preciouslittleone.com The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 77

0-12 WEEKS

Say what?

A tiny baby brings with it a rollercoaster of emotions – as these celebrities will attest Me & my baby

“I wasn’t quite ready for the surge of love. Our life is less frenetic than it used to be – it’s more solid, more centred, more calm, and we love it. Having said that, some days you do think, ‘what have I done – is this going to continue forever?’ and that’s the flipside of it. While it’s magical, it’s also a game-changer!”

ALEX JONES, TV PRESENTER AND MUM TO TEDDY “Nothing can ever prepare you until you’re in it and that little person is right in front of you. Everything you think you learned – and I was reading all the books, talking to everyone – evaporates.”

How I feel…

ROSE BYRNE, ACTRESS AND MOTHER TO ROCCO AND RAFA

GEORGIA JONES, MODEL AND MOTHER TO COOPER

“Dads, do everything you can to be as free as you can for at least two weeks after the baby is born. There are lots of reasons: because it’s great, because you’re needed, but most of all, because that’s the time you learn what a child is.”

RICHARD CURTIS, WRITER, DIRECTOR AND FATHER TO SCARLETT, JAKE, CHARLIE AND SPIKE

“The first week was amazing – we were just in a baby bubble; napping, I was feeding her… it was just a really, really amazing time and I just embraced it all. I don’t think I even washed my hair, I was just in my pyjamas having lots of cuddles.”

TAMARA ECCLESTONE, MODEL AND MOTHER TO FIFI

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PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES EUGENE GOLOGURSKY/STRINGER; SHUTTERSTOCK

I t n t at first ee as t e ost lo e I e e er elt nd because I as t all y a ly as ell a ng e eryone toget er at once and t en celebrat ng t s ne l ttle person be ng n t e orld t as ust a really lo ely t e

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RUNNING HEAD

80 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2017

RUNNING HEAD

onths

Development and settling in

ABOUT ME & MY BABY How I’m feeling:

New milestones:

Sleeping progress: We like to:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2017 | 81

3-6 MONTHS

What to expect With motherhood now in full swing, here’s what’s going on with you and your baby

Your baby…

You’ll notice so many changes in your baby now, and it’s crazy to think how much she has grown from the newborn you brought home just 12 weeks ago.

Your baby should now be able to hold her head up and face forward in a baby carrier – which they generally love, so try to get out on family walks as much as you can.

During these next three months your baby will experience her fair share of vaccinations.

At 12 weeks she will have her second set, which includes the second dose of DTaP/ IPV/Hib (she would have had her first dose at eight weeks – this injection is for diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio and haemophilus influenzae type B), a meningitis C injection and her second oral dose of the Rotavirus vaccine, which protects against the diarrhoea and vomiting illness. At 16 weeks she will have her third dose of DTaP/IPV/Hib and her second dose of Pneumococcal, which protects against pneumonia. Bear in mind that

82 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

your baby might still be grizzly for up to 48 hours after administration.

At around five months you will notice a real change in your baby’s character, as she starts to squeal with laughter. This can feel rewarding but also reassuring that you’re doing a good job. She will also show her strength as she begins to push herself up on her arms. Babies become more aware and start to show a real interest in toys and mirrors.

Once your baby is six months old she should start eating solids. Most babies love the new tastes and textures, and once she is established on three solid meals a day, she will need less milk and will initiate a slowing down process. It’s also around this time that she will get her first tooth – although some get teeth as early as two months and some as late as 10.

At around six months your baby will probably be able to sit up unaided. Remember to enjoy this magical time when they can play, but not move!

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and you • By month three, many mothers have started introducing a gentle routine for themselves and baby.

This can make your life easier and will encourage your baby to sleep for longer at night.

• You may have your first period since having a baby during these months. This varies from woman to woman, and is often longer for women who have breastfed for longer. If you haven’t breastfed at all, your period will probably have returned by three months.

• Many mothers stop breastfeeding during these three months, but whether you decide to stop at three months or three years, it’s always a good idea to have a plan in place to gradually reduce it rather than going ‘cold turkey’.

Stopping breastfeeding too quickly increases the chances of mothers developing mastitis.

• You might start thinking about having sex again at this time, but don’t forget about contraception.

!

D L I M E B O T BORN

H E RE ’S A W IL D ID E A.

at ’s packed fu ll th GE N RA a t ou ab How ingr ed ie nts an d d ve ri de ly al ur at n of to care fo r sp ec ially deve lo ped es? n ew bo rn s an d babi r se n siti ve skin it ’s ev en su itable fo E TO ecze m a.

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3-6 MONTHS

The wish list

From dreamy nursery additions to practical mother and baby buys, add these stylish pieces to your shopping list I would like…

1

2

Sophie la Girafe teether £15, mamasandpapas.com

5

3

Wooden play gym £72, oskoe.com

6

Cotton and bamboo multi-use scarf £75, marloelondon.com

9

10

13

Olala Boutique night lights £49.50, kidly.co.uk

Cotton and cashmere sweater £66, stellamccartney.com

Tripp Trapp high chair £174, stokke.com

12

Baby K’tan Original Wrap carrier £50, kidly.co.uk

15

Sock Ons £3.99, tinytotshop.co.uk

Baby Wash £4, childsfarm.com

8

11

14

Bouncer Balance Soft chair £137, babybjorn.co.uk

ergoPouch sleeping bag £28.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

7

Freya maternity bra £30, houseoffraser.co.uk

Silicone teether £9.99, matchstickmonkey.com

4

Ewan the Dream Sheep soother £29.99, johnlewis.com

16

Nursing top £115, riciaclothing.com

Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules £4.59, boots.com

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RUNNING HEAD

HOW CAN I HELP MY THREE MONTH OLD TAKE A NAP ON HER OWN?

three- to six-month-old babies will sleep for around 15 hours a day, including regular naps throughout. During the day your baby ideally needs three sleeps totalling no more than five hours. The key is for us as parents to notice when they are tired. With a young baby, I suggest you lay her on her play mat, sit and chat to her for a while and then let her be stimulated by the toys hanging above her.

Signs she is ready for a nap include baby ‘cycling’ her legs (this is the first sign of becoming tired), next she will start to clasp her hands and try to rub her face. She will then start to get vocal and begin to moan and groan, and finally she will start to shout.

The key is to notice these signals and take her to her moses basket or cot to sleep at the stage when she starts to moan a little. Don’t wait until she is shouting, as this is when she will be overtired. Take her to a designated place to sleep – her nursery or a quiet room.

Ensure it is dark. This is a signal to baby that sleep is needed. I truly believe that to swaddle a baby allows her to rest and relax without her hands attacking her face. Babies also like the comfort of being wrapped up – it gives them a sense of security, but this a personal choice.

Place her in her cot (after a nappy change, if needed) and then leave her to settle to sleep.

If your baby is settling herself to sleep at 8pm, she is able to do it during the day. You might find that she moans and shouts for a short period of time, but she will then sleep. The key is you notice the ‘window of tiredness’ – this tends to be 90 minutes after first waking in the morning, 30 to 60 minutes after the lunchtime feed, and at 4-5pm in the afternoon.

I’M PUTTING MY SIX MONTH OLD INTO NURSERY, WHAT CAN I DO TO REDUCE THE CHANCE OF HER PICKING UP COLDS? Gillian Stewart, baby and child consultant and founder of Little Routines, says: Reducing the spread of germs in a nursery setting is difficult.

Infection spreads very easily as there are a large number of children in a concentrated area, plus kids are not good at blowing their noses or washing their hands! Many babies are especially vulnerable because of their underdeveloped immune system. But, it’s important to remember that little ones do need to catch the occasional bug so that they can start to build up their immune system to help them fight germs in the future.

You’ll be relying on the policies of the nursery to ensure that the best hygiene practices are being followed.

To help her, I believe the two most important things are a healthy diet and good quality sleep. Alongside her milk, encourage her to eat a varied diet with lots of fruit and vegetables, which contain essential vitamins and minerals to keep her body strong and help fight any infections. An overtired baby will be much more susceptible to infection, so try to ensure she sleeps well during the day and at night. Lastly, it’s really important that their recommended vaccinations are all up to date.

Everyone is responsible to help reduce the spread of infection, but ultimately it’s inevitable that children who are at nursery will catch more colds than those who stay at home. But don’t worry as colds never last long, and after an initial few days of feeling miserable, children bounce back really quickly!

SIGNS SHE IS READY FOR A NAP INCLUDE ‘CYCLING’ HER LEGS AND RUBBING HER FACE 86 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

NOW THAT MY BABY’S A LITTLE OLDER I NEED TO START THINKING ABOUT CONTRACEPTION, BUT I’M STILL BREASTFEEDING – WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS? Dr Shazia Malik, obstetrician and gynaecologist at The Portland Hospital, says: Our bodies become fertile again as early as 21 days after childbirth. For this reason, unless you are intending to have another child immediately, it is recommended that you discuss your options with your health visitor or GP around a week after having your baby.

Don’t assume that because you’re breastfeeding, that in itself is an effective contraceptive, even if you’re not having periods. Ovulation takes place two weeks before a period happens, so you will be unaware of when there is a risk of pregnancy.

Some methods can impact upon breast milk supply. This applies mainly to those that contain oestrogen, such as the combined oral contraceptive pill, the vaginal ring or combined skin patch. Apart from these, you can use most other methods. The most common are either condoms or the mini-pill – the progesterone-only pill.

Most women do not have any major side effects when taking contraception shortly after having a baby, especially if you make an informed choice with your GP. As you are breastfeeding, then you may have no periods, especially while taking the mini-pill.

You can also take emergency contraception while breastfeeding. The coil must be inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse, but may not be suitable if you have had a caesarean section. The emergency pill contains progesterone only, so can also be taken. Levonelle can be taken while breastfeeding, too. Although small amounts of the hormones contained in the pill may pass into your breast milk, it’s not thought to be harmful to your baby.

If you want to have another baby next year or not too much of an age gap, I’d recommend using something that doesn’t affect your cycles too much, such as condoms or a coil.

SOURCES: TWINSUK.CO.UK; PERFECTPATIENTS.COM; ONS.GOV.UK; HEALTHLINE.COM; WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Kathryn Mewes, sleep consultant and parenting expert for Milton, says: Most

3-6 MONTHS

DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice Our healthcare professionals answer your questions on sleep, teething and birth control

A newborn baby will double her weight by the time she is six months

%

OF TWINS ARE LEFT-HANDED, DESPITE ONLY 10% OF THE POPULATION BEING LEFT-HANDED

2.4

IS THE AVERAGE UK FAMILY SIZE, AND IT’S REMAINED THAT WAY FOR THE LAST 10 YEARS WHEN DO BABIES START TEETHING, AND HOW LONG WILL IT LAST? Maggie Evans, registered midwife and complementary therapist, says: Babies can have teething symptoms as early as three months, or as late, in some cases, as 12 months.

The primary teeth have usually all erupted by the age of two and a half.

Common symptoms of teething include tender gums, drooling or dribbling, ear-pulling, mood changes and feelings of irritability and crying. To ease your little one’s symptoms, try some of the following: • Gently run a clean finger over her sore gums.

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

• Give baby cold food purées and cold water, as well as chilled fruit or vegetables to chew on. Ensure you supervise your baby so she doesn’t bite off any chunks.

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

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

• Extra cuddles, attention and distraction may help, too.

Other questions on my mind…

�%

OF BABIES AGED 0-6 MONTHS ARE EXCLUSIVELY BREASTFED

A baby has around 30,000 taste buds

AGED

3-6 MONTHS

YOUR BABY’S STARTLE (MORO) REFLEX WILL START TO DISAPPEAR AS SHE GROWS

3-6 MONTHS

FOCUS ON

Routines

BABY AN D CHILD CON SU LTANT Gillian Stewar t E XPL AIN S TH E IM PORTANCE OF GE T TING YOU R LIT TLE ON E INTO GOOD HABITS eing a mum is not easy. Everyone assumes that because you have had a baby you know what to do, but babies don’t come with their own manuals.

It can be overwhelming trying to decide whose advice to take, but try to remember there isn’t a wrong way to care for your baby, as long as it is safe. I trained at the Norland College and have had three children, so I am aware of how difficult it can be to put even the best advice into practice. New mums often ask me what I think is the single most important tip for coping with a baby. Without a moment’s hesitation I say, ‘routine’.

B

STRUCTURE A routine needs to have structure with some flexibility. Life goes on, and it is not sustainable for you to stay at home and dedicate every hour to your baby. Feeding when you are out is possible. In the early days, it can seem daunting but your baby will learn to nap away from home. If there are siblings, you will want to be able to slot your baby into their routine.

Most babies will slot into a three-hourly routine if you guide them, but they need time to adjust. Your baby is looking to you for help because she can’t do it alone.

A flexible routine will teach your baby what is expected of her, and knowing when feeds and naps are due will allow you to plan your days. It will give you confidence – and if you are confident, your baby will feel safe, relaxed and calm, too.

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SLEEPING Babies aren’t born with their body clocks set.

If you let your baby make the decisions, she will always choose to party at night and sleep all day. Babies get tired after being awake for about an hour-and-a-half – any longer and they become overtired and find it difficult to settle. All babies need one long stretch of sleep in a 24-hour period and you want this to be at night. The best sleepers are babies who have been taught to self-settle. By putting babies to sleep fed and settled, but still awake, you will be allowing them to fall asleep on their own.

My golden rule for a peaceful evening is to not let your baby sleep after 5pm. This is the time for her to be awake, have a snack and enjoy bath time before the bedtime feed and sleep. Other siblings can enjoy bath time, too, and have their story time while you are feeding baby. Bedtime needs to be consistent, calm and positive. The goal is to have your baby in bed by 7pm.

Swaddling may help. Babies are born with the Moro reflex – when startled, they wave their arms uncontrollably causing them to brush their hands across their mouth stimulating the sucking reflex. Babies then wake thinking it is time for a feed. Swaddling makes them feel secure and able to sleep.

FEEDING Good feeds are also key to a successful routine, so wake your baby for feeds during

the day. Encourage her to feed well every three hours or so, and wake her if she falls asleep. Just because your baby dozes off during a feed, it doesn’t mean she has had enough. If you try to put her down to sleep, she will wake up after a few minutes feeling hungry again.

FIVE TIPS FOR SETTING A ROUTINE

1. Teach your baby to self-settle.

2. Encourage good nap times so your baby isn’t overtired.

3. Wake your baby for regular, full feeds during the day.

4. No sleeping past 5pm for a 7pm bedtime.

5. Have a calm bedtime routine at the same time each evening.

3-6 MONTHS

Whisbear The Humming Bear soother, £49.99, whisbear.co.uk

Gro-egg room thermometer and night light, £14.99, gro-store.com

Baby Sleep pillow spray, £18, thisworks.com

BEDTIME NEEDS TO BE CONSISTENT, CALM AND POSITIVE – THE GOAL IS 7PM

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

If your baby is hungry after two-and-a-half hours, you must feed her. I don’t let babies go longer than four hours between feeds during the day. I know that many parents think it is cruel to wake their baby for feeds, but it’s not.

We all need to sleep – not just your baby – and we need it at the right time so that we are able to cope with life’s daily demands.

MOVING FORWARD Many of the problems parents encounter with their toddlers and young children stem from lack of routine. Set boundaries and, if

you remain consistent, everything else will follow. As your baby grows, you will be able to shorten daytime naps and move feeds on to become family meals. You will have a happy child who is eager to learn and enjoy life, and you will feel confident and in control.

Babies don’t judge you or hold grudges.

They love you unconditionally, so approach a routine with a positive mind. Be confident you will be doing the best for your baby. You will be rewarded with a happy, content and inquisitive child ready to conquer everything with confidence, trust and huge smiles.

Gro Anywhere blind, £22.49, gro-store.com

Sleepyhead Deluxe pod, £150, johnlewis.com

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3-6 MONTHS

NIGHT TALES

Reading to baby is a great way to stimulate her brain and immerse her in the sounds and rhythms of speech. Here are our classic picks

GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU

By Sam McBratney Having sold more than 28 million copies, Guess How Much I Love You is now available as a pop-up book, puzzle book, colouring-in book and even as a keepsake baby book.

Baby massage Leading perinatal expert and founder of MamaBabyBliss, Justina Perry e to s the benefits of massa e

DEAR ZOO

By Rod Campbell Discover the animals the zoo has sent in this classic lift-the-flap book which has been delighting children for more than 35 years.

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR

By Eric Carle 2019 marks 50 years since The Very Hungry Caterpillar first munched his way through lots of delicious food. A classic tale for baby.

MIFFY

By Dick Bruna Miffy was created back in 1955 and there’s now more than 102 books in the Miffy collection. Follow her adventures in Miffy’s Birthday, Queen Miffy and Miffy at the Zoo.

EACH PEACH PEAR PLUM

Close Parent Caboo + Cotton Blend £64.99, mothercare.com Blush wrap £59, fornessi.com Yema Butterfly Fashion Collection Edition £200, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

90 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

Omni 360 All-In-One £154.90, ergobaby.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TIME TO SHOP:

BABY CARRIERS

By Allan Ahlberg and Janet Ahlberg It’s no surprise this timeless picture book is a bestseller. On each illustrated page you’ll find much-loved characters such as Tom Thumb, Mother Hubbard, and the Three Bears.

3-6 MONTHS

Play things These beautiful nursery toys will provide hours of entertainment, all the while keeping baby both physically and mentally active

B

ecause skin is the first organ to develop, touch is a baby’s most powerful sense, even when in the womb. Regular massage can help build a baby’s immune system, boost her respiratory system, help strengthen her digestive system by relieving wind, constipation and colic, and stimulate the circulatory system and balance the baby’s nervous system.

When massaging our babies we help to release the hormone oxytocin, which regulates the steroid hormone cortisol, or stress levels. In other words, baby massage can help relax your little one. Plus, oxytocin is simultaneously produced in the person giving the massage, and it is now widely recognised that baby massage can be highly effective for relieving post-partum blues. It can help with breastfeeding, too. Baby massage stimulates the hormone prolactin in mothers, which helps with lactation.

WOODEN STACKING TOYS, £11.50 EACH sarahandbendrix.com

HOW TO MASSAGE YOUR BABY It is best to do this when baby is calm and happy. Make sure the room is warm and then apply a little natural oil to the palms of your hands.

Start with baby’s legs. Hold one ankle in one hand and use your other palm to firmly stroke the outside of the leg from the ankle to the top of the thigh. Then glide down the back of the leg. Change hands and repeat on the inside of the leg. Massage the leg several times then change legs.

Next, move to baby’s chest. Place both hands in the centre of her chest and make a heart shape, sweeping towards baby’s abdomen. Repeat several times. Finish with a short tummy massage; using your hand, make gentle circular movements in a clockwise direction around the belly button. At the end, slowly sweep your hands down baby’s body, from the chest to the toes.

Repeat several times, and remember to take your time.

MAISON DEUX ROCKING CLOUD, £356 en.smallable.com

MOULIN ROTY ROCKING HORSE, £130 cottage-toys.co.uk Baby Carrier One Air £159, babybjorn.co.uk

MyCarrier Front Carrier £99, stokke.com

Izmi Baby Wrap £45, cheekyrascals.co.uk

OOH NOO WOODEN PRAM, £104 lullabuy.co.uk

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3-6 MONTHS

Say what?

These A-listers celebrate the joy and unconditional love that comes with early parenthood “Each baby I’ve had has turned into a very different person, so what works on one baby doesn’t necessarily work on another!”

Me & my baby

SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR, SINGER AND MOTHER TO SONNY, KIT, RAY AND JESSE, CURRENTLY EXPECTING HER FIFTH

“When you’re expecting, everyone tells you how it’s going to affect your life and how your career is going to suffer as a result. It does affect everything but only for the better.”

How I feel…

BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH, ACTOR, FATHER TO CHRISTOPHER AND HAL

“The magic of motherhood is discovering what unconditional love really means. Once you have felt it, you are changed forever.”

NATALIE PINKHAM, TV PRESENTER AND MOTHER TO WILF AND WILLOW

MARISSA HERMER, TV PERSONALITY, AUTHOR AND MOTHER TO MAX, JAKE AND SADIE

“For me, the best thing is the unconditional love, and the cuddles and kisses. I’m trying to appreciate it now because I’m not sure how long it will last!”

EMMA BUNTON, SINGER TURNED RADIO PRESENTER, AND MUM TO BEAU AND TATE

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PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/MARISSAHERMER

“The love that mothers have for their children is incredible and deep and sweet, and I feel so lucky to have three gorgeous creatures I get to love like this.”

, h t o o t t s r i f , d o o f t Fi rs … y a d h t r i fi rst b

IT’S TIME FOR A FIRST VISIT TO THE DENTIST! Parenting is fascinating and joyful, but it can also be a challenge. Let’s face it – babies don’t come with an instruction manual. You’re likely taking on loads of welcome advice from family, friends and health visitors, but don’t forget your friendly dentist.

Your baby may not have any teeth yet, but as soon as those milk teeth start poking through, it’s game on. Even though they’re temporary, healthy baby teeth are crucial to your child’s early development – not just in helping your growing child get the right nutrition through chewing, but also for speech and jaw development, which in turn affects the correct formation of facial features.

Baby teeth are vulnerable to tooth decay from their very first appearance, on average

between ages 6 to 12 months. The associative pain of tooth decay can prevent a child from eating correctly, impacting overall health and development. The Journal of Pediatric Dentistry states that children who wait to have their first dental visit until age 2 to 3 are more likely to require restorative and emergency visits.

Paediatric dentists can detect early tooth decay and provide parents with information on proper oral and facial development, determine fluoride needs and other preventive measures.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and British Dental Association recommend bringing your baby to the dentist before the age of one because it gives us a chance to check for any underlying problems and confirm their dental development is healthy. Even better, choosing a paediatric dentist like Happy Kids Dental pays dividends when it comes to creating

positive experiences of the dentist and getting children on board with dental visits.

Kitted out with amazing play areas and state-ofthe-art technology, the practice has handpicked its team for its skill, experience and amazing rapport with children. They’ll take all the time your baby or child needs to feel relaxed in their care, offering tailored tips, techniques and products to help give children the best possible start in life.

So, if your baby’s first teeth are poking through – or if they’re about to turn one – you know what you need to do. Bring them for their first fantastic visit to Happy Kids Dental, and make sure that cute, toothy grin develops into a healthy smile for life.

Remember, it’s never too early for your baby’s first dental visit – just don’t let it be too late!

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER: quote offer code BABYBOOK50 and get 50% off your child’s first check-up!

*Offer valid for appointments on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Terms and conditions apply.

74-78 Seymour Place, Marylebone, London W1H 2EH | 020 7078 0822 | happykidsdental.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

THE GREAT OUTDOORS smarTfold® trikes are perfect for adventurers, big and small

eeping little ones happy and stimulated while encouraging development is no easy feat for parents. Constantly on the hunt for fun yet engaging activities for mini adventurers, trike brand smarTrike® appreciates how hard it is to inspire outdoor play, which is why its smarTfold® trikes make alfresco activities a breeze for both parent and baby.

K

GET OUTSIDE Whether you’re picking up some groceries or just taking a stroll to the park, smarTfold’s multi-stage folding trikes are a dream come true for parenting on the go. Babies will enjoy a new sense of freedom and independence, while parents will love the special user-friendly features. And the best part is once back inside, the folding trikes are super compact so take up minimal space. The 300 plus model (available at Argos) is particularly compact, and is suitable from 10 months old.

ENCOURAGE DEVELOPMENT With any growing baby, it’s crucial to keep their development in check. smarTrike®’s ‘grow with me’ ethos makes its trikes an ideal travel and outdoor play companion. Every stage of the trike adapts to fit growing babies, the smartFold® 700 model even starts from six months and comes with a reclining seat that swivels to parent or forward face.

Trikes are a great way to encourage the development of many crucial skills: motor skills while training to cycle; encouraging curiosity by steering while getting an open wide-eyed view of the surroundings; and improving cognitive skills, fine motor skills and so much more.

FUN AND CONVENIENT Your little adventurer will love exploring the exciting features of the trike, learning to cycle and eventually riding independently.

Store your essentials in the parent console or storage bag and steer the trike around easily with just one hand. For ultimate convenience for you and the best fun for your kids, head out on your next adventure with

94 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

SPECIAL FEATURES

smartTrike®’s supercompact folding trikes make for easy home storage

smarTrike® compact folding trikes. With just a few simple clicks, your little one’s trike is in the car ready for the next adventure…

A variety of models are available across select retailers including Argos, Mothercare and Smyths Toys as well as Amazon and on smartrike.com

• TOUCH STEERING makes manoeuvring the trike as easy as walking – simply touch the parent handle and you’re off.

• PARENT/CHILD CONTROL allows your child to steer and practice cycling while you’re in control. When they are ready, simply press the front wheel Control Button and twist to transfer control.

• SAFETY FEATURES, from UV canopies to safety bars and harness belts, these trikes have a few extras to help keep your wriggly little ones in place.

• HANDY STORAGE to carry any baby essentials and your personal belongings like keys and phone.

• TWO-STAGE TRAINING PEDALS can be activated or deactivated, depending on what stage of cycling your little one is at.

® smarTfold®

RUNNING HEAD

96 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2017

RUNNING HEAD

�

onths

The world of weaning and movement

ABOUT MY BABY New milestones:

Sleeping progress:

Food likes: Food dislikes:

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6-9 MONTHS

What to expect As your little one begins to make great strides in her development, here’s what’s going on with baby and you

Your baby…

This is the time when adventures really start.

By roughly six months your little one will be reaching out and grabbing anything within her reach, whether this is utilised by her newfound ability to crawl, or just by good old-fashioned stretching. Although crawling is one of the most exciting developments during this stage, it also opens up a world of exploration for your baby. Make sure your house is safe for her and ready for baby life on the move.

Her vision is now almost as it will be in adulthood, although her short-range sight is still better than long-range. However, she can see well enough to recognise people and objects across the room.

At six months, she will turn to her carer’s voice. At nine months, a baby’s hearing is still not fully developed but they are good at discriminating and locating a sound source.

Your weaning journey should be well underway and by seven months you can start introducing protein into your baby’s diet.

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Most babies are delighted to progress from carrots to chicken. Once your baby is well established on solids she should no longer need feeding at night.

If you haven’t already, now is a good time to introduce finger foods – a rice cake is a great way to keep a fractious baby entertained.

Finger food also helps with hand-eye coordination and speech development.

However, once she’s on finger foods, the risk of choking becomes all the more real so it’s crucial that you know what to do if this happens – do a paediatric first aid course.

Some babies start to develop separation anxiety at this age, this is the fear of strangers in young children and can happen from anywhere between the ages of six months and three years. It means they can become very clingy, but don’t worry, it’s a normal part of your child’s development and they usually grow out of it. Be reassuring to her, but know that this is entirely normal and soon passes.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and you • You might well be back to your usual size by now, but many women will find that they still have a bit more weight they’d like to lose, which is entirely normal.

• You may start to feel like you're more in control at this stage, especially if your baby has started sleeping through the night.

• With baby’s new obsession with objects and toys, you’ll probably find you’re constantly picking things up and tidying after your baby. Not to mention all the mess made from weaning!

• On the subject of weaning, you may find you’re spending a lot of time in the kitchen, washing up bowls and bottles and blending purées – remember to pop some in the freezer for a rainy day.

• Life can be hectic at this stage, not only are you looking after a mobile baby but your days are also filled with classes and possibly work. Remember to make time for yourself and date nights, too.

®

6-9 MONTHS

The wish list

When you’re balancing rounds on the NCT circuit with a hungry and active little one, these super supplies might come in handy I would like…

1

2

Babycook Plus food processor £160, beaba.co.uk

5

3

Sleep Time Bath & Massage Oil £28, aureliaskincare.com

6

Reversible yoga leggings £80, sweatybetty.com

9

13

Hands-free baby bath towel £29.99, cuddledry.com

Wooden stacking cubes £24.90, frombabieswithlove.org

Mustela Soothing Moisturising Cream £7.75, escentual.com

8

Baby-Led Weaning Recipe Book £14.99, waterstones.co.uk

14

Bumbo activity tray £34.95, coolshop.co.uk

Belle Enfant cashmere top £59.95, harrods.com

7

10

Make My Day bib £14.99, cheekyrascals.co.uk

4

Go Everywhere Mat £65, avery-row.com

11

Piccolo Spring Greens pouch £1.10, waitrose.com

15

Unbelievabowl suction bowl £5.99, boots.com

Soft-tip weaning spoons £4.29, vitalbaby.co.uk

12

Cotton bodysuit (pack of four) £88, babymori.com

16

Prêt-à-Powder Dry Shampoo £23, bumbleandbumble.co.uk

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HOW CAN I ADD VEGETABLES INTO MY EIGHT MONTH OLD’S DIET?

reports about babies needing to experience genuine vegetable flavours (not just vegetable or fruit blends) from their earliest food tastes, packing a variety of greens into your little one’s diet is a great way to boost your whole family’s intake. Many nutritionists actually believe we should be aiming higher than the five-a-day mantra. Here are some ways to help: • Line a roasting dish with foil, cut several sweet potatoes, carrots and parsnips into long batons. Drizzle over a generous glug of olive oil, and sprinkle over a couple of teaspoons of dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme or sage. Roast for 35 minutes at 180˚C. Perfect with a meal or as a snack, the veg will last several days in the fridge and can be enjoyed by everyone.

• Not only are raw vegetables cut into batons and served with dips a great way to feed vegetables to your family (and good to add to your own lunch box as well), why not add more vegetables to the dip itself? Whizz a cooked beetroot or olives into shop-bought hummus, or purée cooked peas and spinach into cream cheese.

• At mealtimes, put vegetables into a small bowl as a ‘starter’ while you get the rest of the food ready. Try carrots, cucumber or steamed broccoli. Everything is more appealing when it’s in a small bowl!

• Quick veg- and egg-packed meal options include omelettes, frittatas and fritters, which are all one-pan dishes that can be whipped up using frozen, canned or grated veg like sweetcorn, peas, courgettes or carrots mixed with egg and a little cheese.

MY FRIEND’S NINE MONTH OLD RECENTLY SUFFERED A FEBRILE CONVULSION, WHAT IS IT AND ARE THEY COMMON? Emma Hammett, founder of First Aid For Life, says: Febrile convulsions are fits or seizures triggered by a rise in a child’s core body temperature when they are unwell, and are common in little ones. In fact, as many as one in 20 children may experience a febrile convulsion by the time they are five.

They most frequently occur between six months and five years old, and are quite terrifying to watch, but are not usually life threatening and your child is likely to grow out of them. Genetics increase the likelihood, too, and if one or both parents experienced seizures as children, it is far more likely that their child will suffer from them as well.

If your child does have a seizure, there are things you can do to help. Firstly, if your child has been unwell, try to lower their temperature. Take off excess clothing, give them plenty to drink, and give them paediatric paracetamol (such as Calpol) to relieve symptoms.

A fit is generally not life threatening – however, if the seizure continues for more than five minutes or they have repeated seizures then it is vital to call an ambulance. The fit can last from seconds to minutes, and they may go blue and stop breathing. Once the fitting stops, they should be rolled into the recovery position on their left side, to keep their airways open. They may be confused and fractious following the convulsion; be calm, they will return to their normal selves. Following a first fit, they are usually admitted to hospital for observation and tests.

SHE IS SHOUTING BECAUSE SHE WANTS TO SLEEP, NOT BECAUSE SHE NEEDS YOU! 102 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

HOW DO I STOP MY NINE MONTH OLD DAUGHTER FROM ALWAYS WANTING TO SLEEP IN MY BED? Kathryn Mewes, sleep consultant and parenting expert for Milton, says: There’s light at the end of the tunnel! I have been guiding children to sleep for more than 20 years and if you can remain consistent and leave your baby to settle herself, you should be able to resolve this in three consecutive nights. Make sure you have someone to support you and that you feel ready to make the change. You need to feel strong enough in yourself to see this through for three nights.

It’s not an easy process as your baby does need to be left to ‘shout it out’. This is hard to listen to but I don’t believe there is any other way with a child of nine months. Your daughter is now fully aware of the routine you have of allowing her to come into your room, so breaking this is not going to be easy. I would suggest you try the following: • Ensure your baby’s bedroom is dark. If you haven’t got a blackout blind you can try sprinkling water on the glass and lining the windows with tin foil.

• Make sure the bedroom is warm and cosy and that she is not able to climb out from her cot.

• Give a clear bedtime routine that involves milk, a bath and a story before being placed in her cot while she is still awake.

• Leave the room and accept that she is going to shout. At first your baby will be shouting for you. Your baby will then accept that she needs to settle alone and will shout due to not quite knowing how to do it.

Listen for the pauses rather than the shouting.

For as long as there are pauses, she is thinking about how to settle. Do not enter the room as you are likely to disturb her trying to settle.

The more you go into the room, the more frustrated she will become. She is shouting because she wants to sleep, not because she needs you!

SOURCES: FACTRETRIEVER.COM; EMMA'S DIARY; BOOTSWEBMD.COM

Alice Fotheringham, infant nutritional specialist for Piccolo, says: With increasing

6-9 MONTHS

DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice Our healthcare professionals answer your questions on weaning, bedtime routines and crying babies

go through a natural developmental stage, starting anywhere from six to nine months, called separation anxiety. Until now, your baby may have been more than happy to be held by anyone, even strangers, but now suddenly starts crying when handed to anyone else.

This is normal, but how you approach it is quite crucial. Separation anxiety is a key stage when baby realises that they’re a little person in their own right and dependant on you for their needs. You must nurture them to realise that they’ll be absolutely fine, even when left. It’s a skill for them to learn, and when approached with care will stand them in good stead for future emotional wellbeing too.

When leaving your baby, be as calm and positive as possible – your child will pick up on your emotional state. Make saying goodbye fun; teach them to wave or blow kisses – it also aids as a distraction. Try using a calming essential oil, add a drop or two to a handkerchief and leave it with whoever will be taking care of your baby, so that the smell stays familiar.

Babies don’t shed tears until they are about eight months, when their tear ducts have formed properly

20/20

MY BABY HAS JUST TURNED EIGHT MONTHS, HE SCREAMS EVERY TIME I LEAVE THE ROOM. COULD THIS BE SEPARATION ANXIETY? Angela Spencer, childcare expert and founder of Babyopathy, says: All babies

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HOURS IS THE AVERAGE AMOUNT A SIX MONTH OLD MAY SLEEP AT NIGHT

A baby’s vision is usually at normal visual acuity by six months of age

Other questions on my mind…

At around six months, a baby learns that each object is unique

%

OF MUMS SAY SINGING BEFORE BEDTIME MAKES THEIR LITTLE ONE FEEL CALM

UP UNTIL SEVEN MONTHS OLD, A BABY CAN BREATHE AND SWALLOW AT THE SAME TIME

6-9 MONTHS

FOCUS ON

Weaning IN FANT FOOD E XPERT Annabel Karmel E XPL AIN S HOW YOU CAN H ELP BABY ALONG ON H ER WE ANING JOU R N EY ots of parents find themselves feeling apprehensive about weaning and that’s only natural. After all, it feels like you’ve only just found your feet with the milk feeds! You will ask yourself, what foods should I start with? How much should they be having? Should I be trying baby-led weaning, and what if they choke?

When starting your baby on solids, it’s important to remember that milk is still the best and most natural food for growing babies, and it contains all the nutrients your baby needs for the first six months. Babies should still be given breast or formula milk for the whole of their first year. Between the ages of six months to one year, your baby will need 500-600ml of breast milk or formula each day.

While lots of parents start out with smooth purées for spoon feeding, baby-led weaning is growing in popularity. Some feel a need to go with one method or the other, but you don’t have to choose. At around six months, you have the freedom to combine an element of baby-led weaning alongside spoon-feeding if you feel that’s right for you and your baby.

The key is to go at your baby’s pace and give her the opportunity to explore lots of different tastes and textures. Combining purées and soft finger foods at the beginning is appealing to lots of families.

L

WHAT IS BABY-LED WEANING? The philosophy behind baby-led weaning is to let your child feed herself from six months

104 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

of age, leaving out purées and spoon-feeding altogether. It gives babies the opportunity to explore a variety of different tastes and textures from the beginning, helping them to eat a wide range of foods and develop good eating habits from the start.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF SPOON-FED PURÉES? While the Department of Health states that babies should not begin weaning before six months and should be exclusively breastfed until that time, babies will develop at their own pace. If your baby is showing signs of being ready to move on from breastfeeding or formula milk, you can try giving solids earlier than six months, but certainly not before 17 weeks, as your baby’s digestive system will not be sufficiently developed to cope with food other than breast or formula milk.

Before six months, babies tend not to have developed the hand-to-eye coordination essential for baby-led weaning and therefore it should not be attempted. Purées or wellmashed food are an obvious bridge between liquid and solid foods, and it’s easy for you to see how much your baby is eating if you spoon-feed her. When your baby reaches six months, the Department of Health, the World Health Organisation and the British Dietetic Association all recommend giving your baby well-mashed or puréed foods at the beginning of weaning, as well as soft finger foods.

From six months, your baby starts to need

HOW TO GET STARTED WITH BABY FEEDING HERSELF • Ensure you have a safe place for your baby to sit upright. A high chair is the best option.

• Your baby should be able to sit upright unassisted, then you need appropriate ng r s y is t ta y r a y s a an rs i s n a ay t start it gra a y in r asing antiti s as s s ss ants r • Make mealtimes a fun experience.

Even if eating together at the same time doesn’t work for your family, perhaps sit down and eat a snack with her while she eats so her mealtimes don’t become an isolating experience.

• a y s rst ng r s at si nt s s s t an asy t s a r s r its s t g ta s a t y ar y rat s an ats r r as t ar nt is t r i a ari ty at y s t at in inati n r i a g a an n tri nts

6-9 MONTHS

young children that are given foods such as curries, casseroles and tagines tend to accept new foods more willingly. Also, spices add flavour to food without the need for salt.

A FLEXIBLE APPROACH TO WEANING I believe there is a third way to wean your baby, which involves giving purées when baby is ready for first foods (particularly if this is slightly earlier than six months), with the introduction of finger foods and family meals from around six months onwards. Official advice advocates giving a mix of purées and soft finger foods at the start, and in speaking to parents, dietitians and healthcare professionals about weaning, this approach is now a preferred option, and one that many are finding the most realistic to adopt.

What’s important is that there is no right or wrong with weaning. It’s about what works for you and your family. Again, the key is to go at your baby’s pace.

HOW MUCH FOOD SHOULD I GIVE?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

OFFERING PURÉES AS WELL AS SOLIDS ALLOWS YOU TO TAKE BACK SOME CONTROL iron from food, as breast milk alone won’t give her enough. If your baby is just starting out, giving iron-rich foods such as chicken or meat without some form of puréeing or mashing can make it difficult for your baby to eat, which could mean she misses out on essential nutrients. Some young babies also don’t cope as well as others with lumpy food and need a more gradual transition from milk to solids.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF BABY-LED WEANING? Baby-led weaning encourages shared and

social eating, with your baby enjoying family meals from the beginning of her food journey.

While busy family schedules don’t always allow time for eating together, it’s a positive principle to adopt, albeit if only a few times a week. Regularly offering a variety of family meals (without added salt or sugar) encourages babies to adopt good eating habits, as these foods, which often offer a wider variety of tastes and textures than spoon-fed weaning, become a regular part of their diet. Babies that are only offered a limited variety of foods could develop fussiness, whereas babies and

Feeding your baby purées as well as solids takes some of the anxiety out of knowing whether your child is getting enough to eat.

Breast milk or formula milk should provide all of your baby’s nutritional needs for the first six months. After that, it is important to include iron-rich foods, as babies are born with an iron store that starts to run out at around six months of age, and iron deficiency is often the most common nutritional deficiency in young children.

The benefit of offering purées as well as finger foods is that it allows you to take back some control, particularly if you are not sure that your baby is meeting her nutritional needs through baby-led weaning alone.

Gradually increase the quantity of food you give your baby, and always offer full-fat rather than low-fat dairy foods (which are low in added sugar), as these are a better source of vitamin A, and provide extra calories which babies need for growth and development.

HOW WILL I KNOW IF SHE IS READY TO FEED HERSELF? Simply look out for the signs – if your baby can sit up unassisted, has developed sufficient hand-eye coordination to pick up foods and put them in her mouth, shows an interest of wanting to join in family mealtimes, has lost the tongue-thrust reflex which automatically pushes solids out of her mouth using her tongue, and is able to chew (even if she has few or no teeth) she is ready to start feeding herself!

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6-9 MONTHS

BIG NIGHT IN

Having a baby changes the dynamic of your relationship, but it’s important that even after you’ve become a family of three (or four, or five...) you give your relationship the undivided attention it deserves. Can’t get a babysitter? We’ve put our thinking caps on to come up with date-night ideas so good, you won’t even need to leave the house.

Exercise for two

Dig out those trainers, locate your yoga pants and prepare to sweat… but don’t forget to bring baby, too

THE OLD-SCHOOL MOVIE Once baby has bedded down for the evening, it’s time get marvellously simple: pop in a DVD, warm up some popcorn, snuggle under the duvet and pray that you don’t fall asleep during the opening credits. If committing to a two-hour film seems a bit optimistic, pick an episode from your favourite box set instead.

THE PRIVATE DINNER Bring the magic of a restaurant to your very own dining room, without the need to stray from the baby monitor. Make it extra special and hire a private chef for the evening (most of whom also take care of the shopping and washing up – bonus), or settle down in front of the TV with an indoor picnic.

THE DIY SPA DAY Dim the lights and turn your bedroom or bathroom into a blissful sanctuary with lightly scented candles, soft background music, herbal teas and face packs aplenty.

You might even get a massage out of him. If that fails, companies such as Urban Massage offer couples’ treatments in the comfort of your own home.

THE AFTERNOON DELIGHT

106 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

Feeding bottle £8.99, yoomi.com

First Choice learner cup £5.85, nuk.co.uk

Lifefactory glass bottle £16.99, amazon.co.uk

Avent Natural bottle £8, shop.philips.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TIME TO SHOP:

CUPS & BOTTLES

As new parents your sex life naturally takes a notable hit. It can be easy to direct all your love and attention towards your new baby but taking some time to be close with your partner (physically and emotionally) is vital.

Anti-Colic Blue bottle (pack of two) £13.99, drbrowns.co.uk

6-9 MONTHS

Sitting pretty Choosing a high chair for baby might primarily be about safety and comfort, but that doesn’t mean having to compromise on style

ICANDY MICHAIR £260, icandyworld.com

U

ntil now, exercise has probably been at the end of a very long to-do list. But now that your little one is in more of a routine and you’re (hopefully) getting a few more winks at night, life should start to feel like it’s getting back to normal. It’s important to accept that working out postpartum takes time: a marathon, not a sprint, as they say, but there are also plenty of classes specifically designed for this stage. Exercise doesn’t have to mean being away from your baby either – it’s actually the perfect bonding activity, whether you’re using baby as a weight, running with her in a buggy or having her by your side as you perfect your plank.

“Classes are more affordable than a personal trainer, and many are designed so you can bring baby with you,” says Pip Black, founder of Mumhood and fitness studio Frame. “It’s the perfect opportunity to get out and meet other likeminded mothers, as well as know that you’re working out in the presence of an expert who can ensure you are performing the exercises correctly.

“Keep exercises low impact in the first six months,” she adds. “You can still break a sweat – it’s more about reducing the pressure on your pelvic floor. Think little and often – 15 minutes a day, four times a week, will be more beneficial than a 60-minute blowout once a week.”

MICUNA OVO £320, en.smallable.com

STOKKE TRIPP TRAPP £174, stokke.com

Tommee Tippee Ultra £7.95, preciouslittleone.com

Comotomo feeding bottle £15, kidly.co.uk

Transitions learner cup £7, oxouk.com Calma feeding bottle £15.99, medela.co.uk

LEANDER HIGH CHAIR £165, nubie.co.uk

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6-9 MONTHS

Say what?

With a weaning and wandering little one on your hands, this is when the fun really begins “The faith and trust my children have in me as their carer, the person who will make them laugh and the responsibility I have to ensure their lives are happy, fulfilled and carefree is something I will never take lightly.”

Me & my baby

KATE SILVERTON, NEWSREADER AND JOURNALIST, AND MUM TO CLEMENCY AND WILBUR

“I certainly wasn’t going to rush back to work. It was so important to spend time together as a family, so we could become used to this new dynamic… I’m so glad I did that.”

How I feel…

ROSIE HUNTINGTON-WHITELEY, MODEL AND MUM TO JACK

“I always say that ‘mummy knows best’, but really I live by that. I think if you have a gut feel trust your instincts – it won’t do you wrong.”

“Occasionally there’s that amazing thing where it’s three o’clock in the morning and you’re sort of gently furious, yet you get a little smile, your heart breaks a bit and it’s all totally worth it.”

EDDIE REDMAYNE, ACTOR AND FATHER TO IRIS AND LUKE

“Follow your gut – no-one knows your baby like you do. As a mum it can be tough and people do put doubts in your mind, but if you always follow what you think is right then you’re doing the best you can, always remember that.”

TAMARA ECCLESTONE, MODEL AND MOTHER TO FIFI

108 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: REX IMAGES/JAMES GOURLEY/SHUTTERSTOCK

LEONORA BAMFORD, BLOGGER AND MOTHER OF THREE

PROTECT YOUR BABY AGAINST LOUD NOISES

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Whether it’s a music event, busy city centre, noisy ride or flight or loud fireworks: the earmuffs will keep your baby’s ears safe and make it easier to sleep through the noise. The Alpine Muffy Baby is the only CE-certified baby earmuff on the market. Thanks to the soft, adjustable headband the earmuffs have a perfect fit. Now you can safely take your little one with you, whenever and wherever.

Available in British pharmacies or at alpinehearingprotection.co.uk/Muffy-Baby

RUNNING HEAD

110 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2017

RUNNING HEAD

�

onths From baby to toddler

ABOUT MY BABY New milestones:

Baby’s first word:

Sleeping progress: We like to:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2017 | 111

9-12 MONTHS

What to expect Suddenly your baby is more independent than she has ever been. Here’s what’s going on with both of you

Your baby…

Your baby will be becoming much more mobile by this stage. She may start to shuffle and then crawl, start to pull herself up, and can balance holding on to something. Some babies even skip straight to walking by nine months, while others need another nine months to perfect this art. If you have any concerns, bring this up with your GP, but remember it’s normal for babies to reach different milestones at different ages.

By now, your baby should be eating lots of solids and hopefully enjoying the experience.

Beware, this is the stage it gets messy. Babies love smearing food, dropping it and banging spoons, thereby flinging the content all over your kitchen. This messy experimentation with food is arguably as important as the nutritional benefit, so embrace the mess by making sure the place where you feed your baby can be easily cleaned. Experts suggest babies who are introduced to as many new tastes as possible in this first year are much more adventurous

112 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

eaters and therefore have a more balanced diet – so get creative!

Teeth will usually be emerging at this stage and as soon as they do, you need to start brushing them. It will feel like yet another task to fit in to your already full day, but even though these milk teeth will fall out when your child is around six years old, it’s important to prevent decay at this early stage. Don’t worry about actually brushing your baby’s teeth – it’s more about the fluoride intake from toothpaste, so let her chew on a toothbrush.

Now’s also the time to start thinking about moving on from the bottle. Paediatricians agree that ideally babies should only be drinking from a sippy cup from 12 months. This is because they no longer need lots of milk, but they can very quickly become dependent on it. Drinking from a bottle is much worse for their teeth than a sippy cup, too. Remember, it’s much easier to change the habits of a 12 month old than an 18 month old.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: MARINA FOGLE AND DR CHIARA HUNT

and you • Because most babies are sleeping through the night at this stage, you may find you’re feeling much more like yourself. That said, a cold or sick bug can set everything back.

• Life is also physically hard right now.

Even if your baby is walking, she won’t be able to travel far (or in the direction you want), so it means you’re often hauling around a very heavy baby. Make sure you’re eating well and taking time to concentrate on your fitness. Although it might seem selfish at the time, it’s your child who will benefit most from a strong mother.

• As baby’s first year comes to an end, you will inevitably plan some kind of celebration. Don’t go overboard – she won’t remember it and often lots of people and noise are too overwhelming for little ones. Concentrate instead on celebrating the journey you’ve embarked on. If anyone deserves a cake and a glass of something fizzy, it’s you!

Developed by chirocpractors, the bbhugmeÂŽ Pregnancy Pillow offers five-point support to the most critical areas - the pelvis, lower back, knees, ankles and belly

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Scandinavian inspired children’s design

scandiborn.co.uk

114 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2018

114_UBB18_.indd 114

16/11/2018 17:05

9-12 MONTHS

The wish list

Cool toys to travel accessories, bathroom essentials to bedtime buddies; here’s everything you might need moving forward I would like…

1

3

2

Mark ll Recline £180, maclaren.uk

5

Baby Shampoo £4, childsfarm.com

Peter Rabbit push-along toy £14.99, jojomadambebe.co.uk

Travel mattress £29.99, sky-baby.co.uk

10

Bumbo Multi Seat £57.99, argos.co.uk

13

Jack N’ Jill Natural Toothpaste £4.99, hollandandbarrett.com

Tellkiddo paper sack £14, thismodernlife.co.uk

7

6

9

4

8

Baby Sonic electric toothbrush £8.99, boots.com

11

Rose gold pendant POA, wrightsonandplatt.com

14

Design Letters stacking cubes £42, trouva.com

Oeuf NYC hooded jumper £147, en.smallable.com

Wheelybug ride-on toy £74.95, hippychick.com

12

Scamp & Dude soother £40, libertylondon.com

15

Rachel Riley shirt and shorts set £69.95, harrods.com

Moluk Pluï bath toy £12, en.smallable.com

16

Handpainted wooden chair £315, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 115

RUNNING HEAD

Jenny Ward, director of services at The Lullaby Trust, says: Many parents ask me at The Lullaby Trust for advice on what bedding their baby needs. To reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), we always advise that babies up to the age of 12 months sleep in a cot or moses basket with a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that’s in good condition, and a sheet or blanket.

Loose blankets can pose a risk to young babies as they can cover the child’s face or head. Make sure the blanket is tucked in firmly, no higher than the baby’s shoulders or sleeping bag, and that the baby is in the feet-to-foot position. Babies also lose heat from their heads, so it’s important that loose bedding doesn’t accidentally cover her head, making her too hot. You should also make sure she is in a room at a comfortable 16-20°C. If you worry your baby is getting too hot, feel her tummy and remove a layer of bedclothes if her skin is hot or sweaty. Any extra bedding such as duvets or pillows, or accessories such as cot bumpers, can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome or an accident occurring.

The research behind the safer sleep advice applies to babies under 12 months of age.

Once they are over 12 months old, it is up to the parents what bedding they choose to use.

Sudden infant death syndrome is very rare over 12 months. However, after 12 months babies are far more mobile so make sure whatever you chose takes this into account.

The Child Accident Prevention Trust and ROSPA have a lot of good advice based on a child’s age on what to look out for.

HOW MUCH FOOD SHOULD I BE FEEDING MY ONE YEAR OLD? Alice Fotheringham, infant nutritional specialist at Piccolo, says: Once your little one has reached her first birthday, she should be eating a range of different foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.

By now you should have moved on to offering chopped and minced foods.

It’s important to encourage little ones to start chewing by introducing harder foods and different textures, as well as helping develop the muscles needed to utter their first words.

Every baby is different and so there is no fixed portion size as such: it’s much better to focus on a variety of ingredients – think a rainbow of colours – and look at what she eats over the course of a whole week, not just dayto-day, to make sure she is getting a balanced diet.

Babies’ appetites often drop when they turn one, as their growth rate slows right down. They also start asserting their independence and enjoy increased activity levels which can make them more fussy about what they want to eat and when. It’s perfectly normal (even though it can be frustrating for you) for your little one to love a certain food one week and completely refuse it the next! It’s important to read her cues and be guided by her appetite.

Great meal options include spaghetti bolognese, fish pie (make sure the fish is bone free) or risotto. It’s important to avoid filling them up with milk or empty snacks – use snacks to get some good fat or protein in to their diet such as cream cheese or hummus on an oatcake, or sugar-free peanut butter on toast or apple slices.

BABIES’ APPETITES CAN DROP WHEN THEY TURN ONE, AS THEIR GROWTH RATE SLOWS 116 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

I’M GOING AWAY WITH MY 10 MONTH OLD. WHAT I SHOULD PACK IN MY FIRST AID KIT? Emma Hammett, founder of First Aid for Life, says: Although holidays are an exciting time, unfortunately accidents and illnesses can happen anywhere. Equipping yourself with the right kit and knowledge means you are ready for action if something happens. Here are my essentials: • Paediatric paracetamol or ibuprofen sachets.

These are particularly handy to have on the plane in case the air pressure hurts her ears.

• Paediatric Piriton, in case of a mild allergic reaction to new foods or stings.

• A couple of calico triangular bandages.

These versatile, non-fluffy bandages offer easy cover for head wounds, elbows, knees, mouths – pretty much anywhere – and can be folded to make a flat bandage or sling.

• An instant ice pack. This can be activated when you need it (without a freezer). Cover, then apply to bruises to reduce swelling.

• Non-adherent dressings for grazes and micropore tape to secure them. Finger bandages and small dressings are useful, too.

• Burn gel. Use preferably after cooling a burn under running water for at least 10 minutes.

• Tough-cut scissors to cut off clothes and good quality tweezers to remove splinters.

• Plasters – for the short term covering of a wound. Remove as soon as possible, clean and then cover with an appropriate dressing.

• Sterile wipes or pods of saline to clean wounds. Saline is also useful to irrigate sand out of eyes.

• Small crepe bandages to provide support for injured limbs.

Ensure you have the number for the local emergency services – throughout Europe the emergency number is 112. It is also helpful to always have tissues, hand sanitiser, snacks and a bottle of clean water.

SOURCES: APTACLUB; CHEMISTSWORLD.COM; FACTRETRIEVER.COM; AVIVA; KINSAHEALTH.COM; AATH.ORG; KOOCHI

MY DAUGHTER IS ALMOST A YEAR OLD, IS IT SAFE FOR ME TO LET HER SLEEP WITH A BLANKET IN HER COT NOW?

9-12 MONTHS

DID YOU KNOW?

Expert advice Our healthcare professionals talk appetite, safe sleeping and screen time

are drawn to our gadgets but it’s at this age we need to be especially careful. Babies and toddlers learn so much from interaction with humans and no matter how much a programme or app claims to be educational, it simply is no replacement for that interaction.

Many experts are now recommending parents ban screen time altogether for underthrees. In the real world of parenting though, occasional use of TV, tablet or phone for short periods can give us a much-needed chance to get on with jobs. At this age, 20 minutes of a good-quality, age-appropriate TV programme or app is hardly going to ruin your child’s life chances, but the key is to keep it at 20 minutes where possible.

It’s really important, too, to not let screens become your default way of keeping your child ‘quiet’ – so talk to her as you push the trolley round the supermarket and point things out, instead of handing her your smartphone. This is such a formative age – yes, it’s easier to rely on screens, but it really isn’t good for very young children.

A ONE YEAR OLD’S BRAIN IS AT

��% OF ITS ADULT SIZE BUT IT MAY NOT FINISH DEVELOPING UNTIL HER MID-20S

One in five mothers are too afraid to discuss flexible working with their boss

MY ONE YEAR OLD KEEPS REACHING OUT FOR MY IPAD, HOW MUCH SCREEN TIME SHOULD I ALLOW MY BABY TO HAVE, IF ANY? Liat Hughes Joshi, parenting expert and author, says: Even the youngest children

115

BEATS PER MINUTE IS THE AVERAGE HEART RATE OF A ONE YEAR OLD

Other questions on my mind…

£��k IS THE AVERAGE AMOUNT SPENT BY BRITISH PARENTS BEFORE THEIR BABY’S FIRST BIRTHDAY

By the age of one year, a baby has

0.27

laughs per minute during interactions with her mother

A TYPICAL ONE YEAR OLD ONLY KNOWS ABOUT 70 WORDS. BUT BY 18 MONTHS, SHE LEARNS ONE NEW WORD EVERY TWO WAKING HOURS!

9-12 MONTHS

FOCUS ON

Movement PL AY E XPERT AN D CHILD PSYCH OLOGIST Emma Kenny E XPL AIN S H OW TO N U RTU R E YOU R BABY ONCE SH E’S ON TH E MOVE arents spend on average more than six hours a day holding their baby, so that incredible moment when your little bundle of joy begins to show a certain level of independence, whether that’s shuffling her bum along the floor or showing signs that she can travel by foot, marks huge milestones for both parent and child. Creating a happy environment for little ones to develop in is key, and allowing your baby to have fun within this environment is important, too.

One of the main anxieties parents face is whether their little one is reaching their developmental milestones at the right time.

I often remind parents that it’s important to see your child as the individual that she is.

Each baby has a mind of their own, and more often than not, babies who do not progress as quickly ultimately catch up in their own time, meaning you may be worrying unnecessarily rather than just enjoying being a parent.

Even if it turns out that your baby is experiencing some developmental delay, or health issues, you cannot let anxiety take hold. Instead, you should focus on positive strategies that make you feel in control of your parenting and, more importantly, allow you to enjoy your baby for who she is. But from the first attempt at crawling, to those wobbles as she stands by herself, I’m a big believer in play being a crucial element of that development.

Toys are, of course, an essential part of playtime, and well designed, safe, age-

P

118 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

appropriate toys can help baby along the way on so many levels. Play stimulates physical skills such as balance and coordination, and hand-eye coordination, and hones in on sensory skills including perception of colours, form, movement and sound. And not forgetting the learning of social skills – interaction, taking turns, sharing and role play.

But how will your little one change and develop from the age of nine to 12 months, and how can you help? There are many things parents can do to encourage more movement.

Play games that boost your little one’s strength; these can begin as soon as your baby can sit unaided. Why not try stacking games or even doing something as simple as rolling a ball out of her reach so she starts increasing her core strength as she reaches to grab it, or crawl towards it.

As soon as your baby starts pulling herself up either using you or objects around her to stand with support, be sure to praise her. Lots of smiles and claps are great to encourage her to keep going. Babies love being rewarded and having lots of reinforcing stimuli such as musical sounds and peek-a-boo mirrors makes their playtime fun, while observing a whole host of positive developmental opportunities. A baby walker will give her a sense of independence and this will also help to strengthen her leg muscles as she becomes more confident.

Be a support for your little one; walk with her by standing behind and gently holding her

MARK OFF THOSE MILESTONES Here is a guide to where your little one may find herself over the next few months (but remember, all babies are different!)

Month 9 • Using her good vision to see where she wants to go • Recognising familiar people • Independently choosing what she wants to play with

Month 10 • Understanding the meaning of basic words such as ‘no’ and ‘yes’ • Cruising around a room • Singling out her favourite toys for maximum fun

Month 11 • Standing independently • Taking her first step • Widening her speech and language

Month 12 • Chatting • Walking or cruising • Playing with some independence

9-12 MONTHS

Wooden walker, £42, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Leather and canvas shoes, £27, bobux.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK. EMMA KENNY IS A PLAY EXPERT FOR LITTLE TIKES

Light ’n Go Monkey musical toy, £29.99, preciouslittleone.com

PLAY STIMULATES PHYSICAL SKILLS SUCH AS BALANCE AND HAND-EYE COORDINATION underneath her arms, or by holding her hands.

This way she will feel confident in taking those all-important first steps.

When putting your baby down, make sure you place her in a standing position. This will encourage her to balance and give her the confidence to start to try to walk. Once she seems to have found her feet, support her with one hand. This means she will feel safe but also in control of her steps.

As she begins to take her first steps all on her own, give her a round of applause. Again, praise will encourage her confidence as she

gets set to explore the world. At this point, she will benefit from toys that she can push around, and ones which have lots of sensory reinforcement as she goes on her very first independent adventures.

As your baby approaches her first birthday, it’s time for celebrations, not just for her, but for you, too – you’ve all come a long way! By now it’s likely you have an active, inquisitive, chatty child with a wide range of abilities, and let’s face it, watching your baby squeal, laugh, grab, play and progress is a fabulous feeling for any parent.

Ooh Noo rocking horse, £315, lullabuy.co.uk

Suede shoes, £26, clarks.co.uk

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9-12 MONTHS

SAFETY FIRST

As your little one develops, she’ll become increasingly keen to explore. Emma Hammett, founder of First Aid for Life, shares her tips for making your home as safe as it can be

GENERAL SPACES • Use soft corner covers for sharp corners and door stops to prevent doors slamming.

• Fit stair gates and keep stairs clear from clutter.

• Teach your baby to come down the stairs backwards.

• Never leave chairs next to a window, work surface or somewhere dangerous that your baby can climb up to.

• Keep small items and batteries well out of children’s sight and reach.

Baby’s first holiday

Here’s how to have a stress-free trip, says Tamara Lohan, mother of two and co-founder of Mr & Mrs Smith

KITCHEN • Always stay with your baby when she is eating or drinking and discourage older children from sharing their food with her.

• Always stir food and drink to avoid microwave hot spots.

• Chop fruit and veg, particularly grapes, but avoid chopping into neat circles which can obstruct airways if they get stuck.

• Always strap baby into the high chair.

NURSERY • Do not hang drawstring bags over the cot, and tie blind cords out of reach.

• Nappy changing is safest on the floor.

• Keep small objects out of reach.

BATHROOM

SpaceCot £149.99, hippychick.com

Joie Excursion Change & Bounce Travel Cot £110, buggybaby.co.uk

120 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TIME TO SHOP:

TRAVEL COTS

• Medicines should be locked away; a childproof container may only delay your little one getting at them!

• Use a bath thermometer.

• Fit fireguards and radiator guards, and turn off heated towel rails.

• Supervise water play at all times.

Arc 2 Travel Cot £109.99, littlelife.com

Sena Aire Night £180, shopnuna.co.uk

9-12 MONTHS

A flying start Mr & Mrs Smith reveals its finest baby-friendly boltholes from far and wide. Don’t forget to pack your bucket and spade!

T

he great thing about travelling with your baby is being able to book trips outside of the school holidays – a time to avoid like the plague for new families. Then, with this in mind, it’s all about finding the right hotel to suit your needs.

Firstly, check the size of your room. If there are double doors that shut onto a separate lounge area, you’ll be able to give yourself some breathing space when baby is sleeping. Next, find out if the bedroom has black-out blinds. If not, you can buy your own online. It also makes sense to book a room with a kitchenette – ideal for preparing bottles and snacks – and I always pack Ella’s Kitchen pouches as a back-up food supply.

If you can leave the buggy at home, do. Lots of hotels have their own kit you can borrow – just use a baby carrier for the airport. As for flights, they can sometimes be tricky but a little preparation goes a long way. Our long-haul journey was simple when I was still breastfeeding, but you might want to stick to short-haul flights as you approach the toddler phase.

Opting for a ground-floor room makes sense if your baby is crawling and, if you’re heading for a getaway by the sea, a gently shelving sandy beach is best for toddlers who’ll find it easier running in and out of the water. Oh, and one last tip: in the US a ‘cot’ means bed – make sure you’re asking for a crib instead!

SEA GARDEN COTTAGES, SCILLY ISLES These pretty cottages sit peacefully on car-free Tresco Island, with its beautiful beaches and craggy coastline.

EKIES ALL SENSES RESORT, HALKIDIKI This hip hideaway boasts sandy beaches, an eco spa and a palm-fringed pool. It’s also incredibly baby-friendly.

SONEVA KIRI, KOH KOOD, THAILAND This tropical paradise ticks all the boxes: super-sized villas, private pools and the acclaimed Six Senses Spa.

Sun & Sleep Pop-Up Bubble Cot £74.99, koo-di.com

SleepSpace Travel Cot £149, babyhubshop.com

Travel Cot Light £215, babybjorn.co.uk

SA TERRA ROTJA, MALLORCA This terracotta-hued villa features a sunkissed terrace, saltwater pool and shady hammocks for nap time.

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9-12 MONTHS

Say what?

Think you’ve got nothing in common with these famous faces? Think again!

“I never knew a love like it until having my babies. I think watching my girls grow into little people, and seeing and learning who they are is just the greatest privilege.”

Me & my baby

MYLEENE KLASS, CLASSICAL MUSICIAN, MODEL AND MOTHER TO HERO AND AVA

“Children are always full of surprises, whether it’s getting crapped on or getting this beaming big smile that you can’t stop looking at. You just want that moment to last forever.”

What I’ve learnt…

BLAKE LIVELY, ACTRESS, MOTHER TO JAMES AND INEZ

“Motherhood is a lot of work. I go to bed early and get up early so I can fit everything in, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

JOOLS OLIVER, MOTHER TO POPPY HONEY, DAISY BOO, PETAL BLOSSOM, BUDDY BEAR AND RIVER ROCKET

“Do not compare yourself. I’ve heard this advice from many others but it’s so easy when somebody tells you how to parent, or how they’ve got their child to sleep through the night when yours isn’t – so just don’t do it, it’s not worth the stress.”

“Parenthood is a wonderful wild ride – everyone does it differently.

Do it your own way and hang on!”

MARISSA HERMER, TV PERSONALITY, AUTHOR AND MOTHER TO MAX, JAKE AND SADIE

122 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOM JACOBS

GEORGIA JONES, MODEL AND MOTHER TO COOPER

SleepSpace Cot to play tepee in seconds a fun choice for your family

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www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com The Ultimate Baby Book 2018 | 123

RUNNING HEAD

124 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2017

RUNNING HEAD

and onwards… What lies ahead

ABOUT MY BABY New milestones:

Sleeping progress: Started walking: We like to:

The Ultimate Baby Book 2017 | 125

ONWARDS

FOCUS ON

Childcare SOM EBODY EL SE LOOKING AF TER YOU R BABY CAN BE A DAU NTING PROSPEC T. H ER E’S A COM PR EH EN SIVE GUIDE TO YOU R CHILDCAR E OP TION S eciding on the childcare that’s right for you depends on many factors – how many days and hours you need a week and your budget for starters. There are myriad options available, so we’ve explored the pros, cons and costs of each, to take your child from baby days to school age.

D

CHILDMINDERS Childminders are self-employed and usually take care of children within their own home.

Registered with Ofsted in England, they are inspected every two years. By law, registered childminders can look after six children under eight years old. Three of these can be five and under, and only one can be under 12 months.

They must have completed a local authorityapproved training course and a 12-hour paediatric first aid course. Hours are agreed between the childminder and parents.

How much does it cost? On average it’s just under £200 per week for full-time care, this may vary depending on the age of your child and the hours you want*.

Pros: They are inspected regularly, they can provide tailored care for your child in a secure home environment, and there may be some flexibility with drop off and pick up times.

Cons: If your childminder is ill or away you will need a Plan B, and you may have to subsidise additional outings and activities.

DAY NURSERIES Day nurseries offer care for children from

126 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

six weeks old to when they start school (usually around four). The number of children attending will vary from nursery to nursery, and many have multiple rooms to separate ages. There are different types of nurseries including private, community, local authority and workplace nurseries. They are inspected

by Ofsted and there are legal ratios for each child: babies aged five weeks to two years – one carer to three children; children aged two to three years – one to four; children over three – one to eight, or 13 if led by a teacher.

How much does it cost? The typical cost of a full-time day nursery place is about £210 a week for a child younger than two. In some areas, such as London, the cost rises to £280.

Pros: Staff are trained with valid qualifications and nurseries are inspected every two to three years. If someone is ill, there should be enough staff to cover and they will stay open during the holidays. Best of all, there are lots of other children for them to play with.

Cons: Drop off and pick up times are fixed, and staff turnover can be high. You may feel your child isn’t getting the one-to-one care other options can give and your child is likely to pick up more illness as there are more kids.

NANNIES A nanny is employed by you to care for your child in your own home; they may live in or live out, depending on your preference.

Depending on what you want your nanny to do and the age of your child, a nanny may be

responsible for feeding, bathing and dressing her, changing nappies, or helping her use the toilet, preparing her meals, washing and ironing her clothes and bedclothes, and planning activities such as swimming, reading and social interaction, for example, going to a playgroup.

Be aware that nannies aren’t required to hold a qualification in childcare, but many have some form of training or study, the most traditional being Norland Nannies (norland.co.uk).

How much does it cost? The average for a live-in is around £300-350 per week and £400£475 per week for live-out. You are responsible for their tax and national insurance.

Pros: Hours are flexible, especially if you have a live-in nanny. Your children will enjoy being looked after at home and may develop a strong bond with their nanny.

Cons: It’s the most expensive form of childcare and they’re not inspected unless

ONWARDS

Tidlo stacking cubes, £25, thetoycentre.co.uk

Musical pony toy, £22.99, lamazetoys.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. WORDS: GEORGINA BLASKEY. *SOURCE: BABYCENTRE.CO.UK

Wooden bus set, £25, elc.co.uk

THE TYPICAL COST OF A FULL-TIME DAY NURSERY PLACE IS ABOUT £210 PER WEEK they’re registered. You will have to arrange back-up care if they are ill or on holiday.

AU PAIR These are generally foreign students, here to study and improve their English, who live with you as part of your family. You can expect them to help around the house and look after your children when needed, working about five hours a day, five days a week. However, due to their age and lack of experience, it’s not be the best option if your child is under two.

How much does it cost? They must be

provided with a bedroom and meals, and they receive ‘pocket money’ (£70-£120 per week) rather than a wage; they are not classified as employees so they don’t need national insurance or tax.

Pros: The ‘big sister’ role can be vey beneficial to older children (au pairs tend to be 17 to 27 years old) and your child may enjoy the exposure to another language and culture.

Cons: They are young and may have poor command of English. You need to give them time to attend their college, which may impact the hours you need them.

Le Toy Van cookie set, £24.95, spottygiraffe.com

Orange Tree Toys stacking rings, £16, johnlewis.com

The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 127

ONWARDS

CLASS ACTS

Before you know it, your child will have her own schedule, and the benefits are endless.

Here are some ideas to get you started

DANCE Dance is a great form of exercise for children – it comes naturally to them, and improves their flexibility, posture and movement. Look out for classes such as Diddi Dance (from 18 months) or Baby Ballet (from six months).

LANGUAGE Encouraging social skills amongst babies is never a bad thing, and the younger the learner, the better they are at mimicking new sounds. Learn a new language with clubs such as Lingo Tot (from six months), BilinguaSing or London-based Club Petit Pierrot (from eight months), or pick up sign language skills with Sing and Sign or Tiny Talk, from any age.

Time for another?

It may be now you’re thinking about growing your family, but how do you know when the time is right?

PHYSICAL PLAY Explore classes such as Tumble Tots (from six months) and Gymboree (as soon as your baby is mobile) to help her build confidence. The use of props and imaginative play enables little ones to thrive and learn.

MUSIC There are plenty of groups around to encourage your baby to embrace her musical side, all the while developing her speech and social skills. Check out Jo Jingles and Monkey Music (both from three months), or the Little London Music School (from six months).

SPORT

Long-sleeved apron £4, ikea.com

Mini Micro 3-In-1 Deluxe scooter £109.95, micro-scooters.co.uk

Princess Polly: I’m Starting Nursery £6.99, penguin.co.uk

128 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019

Water bottle £14.99, hydratem8.co.uk

Bloomingville lunchbox with cutlery £9.95, scandiborn.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TIME TO SHOP:

NURSERY BUYS

Let your little one burn off excess energy while learning essential gross motor skills – enjoy team play at Rugby Tots (from two years) or KiddiKicks (from 18 months), or jump around at a toddler trampolining session at Oxygen Freejumping or FlipOut.

ONWARDS

Under canvas Indoor or outdoor, teepees are perfect for inspiring imaginative play, not to mention a great storage solution for all those excess toys

A

s you see your toddler grow into a little person, and those early days of sleepless nights, tears and tantrums seem rather far away now, naturally you will start to consider when to add another to your brood. “Dramatic increases in levels of oxytocin, in pregnancy and early parenthood, actually changes the wiring of our brains, helping to blur out the more difficult times from our memory and allowing us focus on the cuddly, ‘edited’ version of life with a newborn,” says Vanessa Christie, parenting expert and founder of The Parent & Baby Clinic. “The smell, touch or sight of a newborn can trigger those memories of oxytocin-fuelled love, prompting us to long for it all over again.”

But is there such a thing as an ideal age gap to have between children? Well, the truth is, no – it’s a personal choice. There are, of course, pros and cons to all options and it’s important you take a fully comprehensive approach to make a decision based on your personal circumstances. “There’s no doubt having children in close succession can make life easier on some levels, but if you can avoid it, try not to be in a position where you are juggling potty training a toddler with late pregnancy or a newborn baby,” explains Vanessa.

It may be that your partner is ready for another addition, but you’re still on the fence. “Adding more children into the equation when one partner is unconvinced is definitely not a good idea, so only go for it if you are both pro,” says Vanessa. “Facing the demands of a bigger family will be a whole lot easier without the worry that one of you feels resentful about it. And remember, having another baby is a lifetime investment, so do look beyond the first year and picture what you’d like for your family in five, 10, even 20 years,” she adds.

NUMERO 74 COTTON TEEPEE £146, en.smallable.com

KIDS CONCEPT CANVAS TEEPEE £115.95, allmamaschildren.com

COTTON NOBIDINOZ TEEPEE £158.95, scandiborn.co.uk Iron-on labels (pack of 18) £7.99, stuckonyou.uk Toddler backpacks From £18.99 each, littlelife.com Wellington boots £35, hunterboots.com

WILDFIRE KIDS CANVAS TEEPEE £142.95, cuckooland.com Pencil case £7.50, beckyandlolo.co.uk The Ultimate Baby Book 2019 | 129

USEFUL CONTACTS

Zita West

Clare Byam-Cook

Dr Anuj Chaturvedi

Rebecca Crowe

Kathy Doolan

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CHIEF SCIENTIFIC OFFICER

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AND AUTHOR

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Meet our experts The healthcare professionals on hand to answer your questions

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130 | The Ultimate Baby Book 2019