Baby June 2020

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JUNE 2020 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

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KEEP CALM HOW TO FILL

Daddy cool

Wean Supreme

WE REVIEW THE BEST BESIDE-THE-BED COTS

THE ULTIMATE FATHER’S DAY GIFT LIST

Natalie

IMBRUGLIA

MAKING HER MARK ON MOTHERHOOD

YOUR AND BABY’S DAYS

KICK START WITH OUR HEALTHY RECIPES

GARDEN GOALS MAKING THE

PERFECT SPACE FOR LITTLE ONES

£4.40

allLOVED up HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS

CONTENTS JUNE 2020

FEATURES

46 HOME COMFORTS On lockdown with your little one? Kate Freud shares a few at-home activities that’ll keep you and baby sane 49 PARTY TIME: NEW-BABY GIFTING What better way to celebrate a new arrival than with a well-considered gift?

Carole Middleton reveals her favourites 50 HITTING THE HIGH NOTE Australian singer, model and actress Natalie Imbruglia opens up about highs and lows of her journey to motherhood 54 LISTEN UP! With seven million people now tuning into them, Sarah Dawson checks out 10 of the best parenting podcasts around 62 RAINBOW BRIGHT Take baby on a colourful, sensory journey with the ancient healing practice of chromatherapy

STYLE

34 OFF THE GRID Rebecca Moore catches up with Instagram sensation Chloe Uber Kid to talk interiors, infants and life by the sea 44 AHEAD OF THE CURVE Stylist and presenter Antonia O’Brien shares her top pre- and postnatal wardrobe lust-haves

SHOPPING 21

BABY LOVES Add some animal magic to baby’s sleep time with the Wild at Heart collection from Sleepyhead 23 COVER ALL BASES Whatever the weather, your mini-me will need essentials in classic shades, from Nordic neutrals to evergreen 56 FATHER’S DAY GIFT LIST Whether he’s daddy cool or papa bear, we’ve got that present wrapped up for the special man in baby’s life 72 GARDEN GOALS Interiors guru Ali Howard moves out of the house and into the garden with her outdoor space edit

34 FOOD

75 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest new treats for babies and parents 76 GOOD TASTE Piccolo’s infant nutritionist Alice Fotheringham shares some of her favourite seasonal recipes for the whole family to enjoy

Leo Bamford reveals her favourite things for this month (p.43)

Made in Che lsea star M illie Mackint opens up ab osh out her preg nancy so fa r (p.29)

REGULARS 15

19

BABY NEWS From cute babywear and cool fashion collabs to sweet nursery must-haves, we’re keeping you in the know with all things great and small WIN! A £500 DEBENHAMS VOUCHER This month, we’ve teamed up with the iconic department store to give away a £500 voucher to spend online

baby-magazine.co.uk | 5

76 EDITORIAL Editor-at-Large Kate Freud Editor Rebecca Moore Sub Editors Laura Sutherland, Natalie Keeler Editorial Assistant Henrietta Easton Online Editor Ruby Norris

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West

DESIGN Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado

PUBLISHING Chairman Paul Dobson Chief Operating Officer Kevin Petley Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin Director of Media James Dobson Managing Director of Sales and Chelsea Create Steve Ross Publisher Caroline Scott Circulation Manager Daniel Webb EA to Chairman Sarah Porter

ADVERTISING

29 MY ESSENTIALS We chat to former Made in Chelsea star Millie Mackintosh about pregnancy indulgences, baby names and fitness 32 NICE TOUCH Are you sitting comfortably? Emma O’Donovan puts forward the best touchy-feely books for baby 43 LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month, from stylish strollers to cute nursery essentials 53 DIARY OF A MUM As isolation hits and home schooling begins, our columnist Jakki Jones tries to keep calm and carry on 58 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus second-time mum Ellie takes the iCandy Orange out for a spin 61 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS From skincare to baby tech, these are the latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing

72

Sales Director Cameron Hay Head of Market Julie Price Sales Executives Emma Cain, Miranda-Alix Forsyth Baby is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: baby-magazine.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 Email: baby@chelseamagazines.com

Singer and actress Nat alie Imbrul talk s findin igia g joy in mot herhood (p .50)

65 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST This month, the fertility expert explains whether you should be taking extra care when carrying twins 66 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt address the facts around giving birth at home 69 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ In what way does breast milk protect your baby? Professor Amy Brown looks at the facts 70 THE REVIEW Laura Mason puts the very best beside the bed cribs to the test 80 ONLINE BOUTIQUES Our pick of the most beautiful online baby boutiques 82 INSPIRE We chat to the country manager of jewellery label Merci Maman, Alix Stanworth, to talk team spirit, spreading positivity and making time for family

BABY (print) ISSN 2516-5178 BABY (online) ISSN 2517-813X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2020 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHY: LITTLE WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY MODEL: BEE

Sit back & sway away From newborn. To toddler. To big kid. They keep on growing. One thing that is constant? Their need for comfort and a space to call their own.

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Wooden blocks £29.95, letoyvan.com

EDITORS

LETTER

Leather shoes £30, bobux.co.uk

Cotton sleepsuit £16, debenhams.com

REBECCA MOORE, EDITOR

KEE @baby_mag_insta

K

VISIT •

@BabyMagazineUK

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#babymaginsta

• B A B Y-

We’d love to see pics of you and your bump, or baby, with our current issue

@BabyMagazineUK

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then some with her lowdown on lockdown en famille on page 46. Or perhaps this phase has coincided with the start of a special weaning journey? With more time at home than ever before, Piccolo’s resident infant nutritionist, Alice Fotheringham, shares some recipes that will wow the whole family – this month, I’ll definitely be giving the multi-seed loaf a try.

See what takes your fancy on page 76.

Of course the days aren’t put on hold, and now is the time to show the dads in our lives how much we appreciate them, particularly if it’s their first Father’s Day. We’ve compiled the ultimate gift list to put a smile on their faces, flick to page 56.

If the disruption to daily life has allowed you more time to read, whether that’s picking up an old magazine or firing up the iPad, then we’re at your service! You may find our online and social channels a helpful resource during this challenging time. As for me, I’ll be back soon. ’Til then, the fields are calling.

Take care.

O

Jersey denim dungarees From £16.95, joules.com

This time last month I was sat at my – somewhat overcrowded – desk at our Chelsea-based office, full of cheer that summer was on the horizon. I’m now in my childhood home in sleepy north Cornwall, feeling fortunate for my family and the space we have here but, like all of you, I’m doing some serious adjusting. I do hope Baby magazine readers are keeping safe and making the most out of this uncertain time with plenty of cuddles with your newborn, toddler, or partner as you journey through pregnancy together.

Speaking of Cornwall, someone who loves the British coast as much as I do is the ubercool Chloe Thurston. Like me, you may be a huge fan of her Instagram feed over at @chloeuberkid – now a mother of six, as she welcomes baby Brody to the pack, we caught up to chat all things babies, brands and beach life. For ultimate interiors goals, go to page 34.

Meanwhile, outside the house and four steps into the garden, our interiors guru Ali Howard is providing her top tips on making your outdoor space a winning one for little explorers. Check it out for yourself on page 72.

Keeping you sane with baby, our editorat-large Kate Freud has your days filled and

A Z I N E .C

@baby_magazine_uk

Cotton dress £16, newbiestores.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 9

CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

Queen Charlotte’s Hospital, Hammersmith.

The worst trend you participated in?

I spent most of my teenage years dressed as a ‘skater girl’ in huge baggy trousers and T-shirts despite never setting foot in a skate park.

Your one top tip for keeping upbeat in time of crisis?

Surprisingly, I’m finding doing a little exercise every day is helping me – that and rosé wine!

See Kate's favourite things this month on p.18

Where were you born?

Shrewsbury.

The worst trend you participated in?

Ripped and slashed tights; gothic just isn’t me!

Your one top tip for keeping upbeat in time of crisis?

Scale back and make everything small, focus on the task at hand and turn off all notifications; knowledge isn’t always power, sometimes it’ll only make you anxious.

Check out Antonia’s fashion tips on p.44

E YN

RN , JOU ALIST

LOUI SE P

A

N, STYLI BRIE ST O’

ANTO NI

FR E KATE

GE

ITOR AT LA , ED R D U

Where were you born?

Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow.

The worst trend you participated in?

It has to be wearing underwear as outerwear back in the 90s!

Your one top tip for keeping upbeat in time of crisis?

Stay in touch with loved ones and do as many little acts of kindness as you can.

Louise explores the wonderful world of chromatherapy on p.62

BABY O NL INE

P-TO-DAT

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PU

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VISIT •

• B A B Y- M

KEE

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

A Z I N E .C

Advice and guidance for parents in lockdown with little ones

Bump up your fitness ro tine ith at-home exercise tips We reveal how to read the latest issue of Baby for free

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tilt

one stop snoozing spot i-Level™ A dreamy day-tripper that does more than most when on the roam or even at home. With i-Size security plus stretch and snooze sleepytime tilt™ for a healthier, safer, cosier carrier.

Share the joy at joiebaby.com Available at Argos, Boots, Halfords, John Lewis, Mamas & Papas, Very and all good independent nursery retailers.

O F TH E M O N TH

Hudson PHOTOGRAPHED BY AMY FREELOVE

is little utie is ont old udson, o li es in ent it is u y, dad anny, and older rot er ar ey is adora le ee y appy grin aptured eauti ully in t is snap is y udson is t is ont s inner SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!

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FOR BABIES GOING SOMEWHERE The is a smart, compact stroller, perfect for urban families who want a light, simple to use stroller solution. TRU-RIDE2 Technology ensures an extremely comfortable ride for baby and an ‘effortless push’ for you. Weighing just 8.4kg and suitable from birth up until 22kg, the is perfect for your baby’s early years.

To find out more, visit juniorjones.com or follow us

BUILT FOR THE CITY

Capture Spring from Newbie A COLLECTION FOR YOU AND YOUR LITTLE ONES FROM SWEDISH LIFESTYLE BRAND NEWBIE

Newbie is all about timeless, sustainable, and affordable clothes and homewares which are designed to last; perfect for children who love to play, learn and more.

Newbie products are made using 100% sustainable, organic and recycled materials.

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O .U K E .C

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NEWS

UPDATING YOU ON ALL THINGS GRE AT AND SMALL

Swathe your tiny treasure in aden + anais’ light knits to beat the summer breeze chills

SUMMER HUGGIN’ Ready for balmy summer days, aden + anais has launched a new comfort-knit range of cottonrich essentials to keep newborns cosy. Building on the success of its AW19 snuggle-knit line, the comfortable stretch fabric is designed to mimic the snuggly feeling of a hug, but this time with lighter fabrics and fresh seasonal prints for summer. Choose from knotted gown and hat gift sets and cuddly swaddle blankets in pretty florals, colourful animal prints or dreamy blue moon designs, perfect for bedtime. From £25, adenandanais.co.uk

REUSABLE NAPPY BRAND BABA + BOO IS DONATING 3,500 OF ITS NAPPIES TO THE BRAVE NHS STAFF ON THE FRONTLINE OF THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC. TO SAY THANK YOU TO THE AMAZING KEY WORKERS WORKING TIRELESSLY TO KEEP US SAFE, THE COMPANY HAS SO FAR SENT BOXES TO 30 NHS TRUSTS ACROSS THE UK, WITH MANY MORE TO COME. BABAANDBOO.COM

baby-magazine.co.uk | 15

PLAY AT HOME

Who said indoor play was boring? Perfect for keeping kids occupied during quarantine, stylish nursery brand Little Dutch’s new collection Play All Day allows imaginations to run wild in a gorgeous neutral Scandi tonal palette and has just landed on Scandiborn. Crafted from quality wood to give the contemporary toys a nostalgic feel, little ones can play make-believe with a kitchen set, a coffee machine, a workbench complete with wooden tools, as well as a wooden baby gym and walker. From £8.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Keep shining

Helping us smile during uncertain times, Sophia Webster’s new Baby Ballerina collection will add much-needed sparkle to your little one’s shoe rack. In party-ready pops of white, silver, bronze, black and gold, the footwear features plenty of glitter and, of course, the brand’s iconic butterfly motif. To keep kids busy during lockdown, the label has also launched a colouring competition; enter on Instagram with the hashtag #SWIsolationCreations to be in with a chance of winning a pair of mini wellies. From £90, sophiawebster.com

ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY?

Bumbo’s new SS20 range of multi seats and floor seats are the colourful pick-me-up we’re all looking for this spring. Available in refreshing summer shades called Cradle Pink, Hemlock, Powder Blue, Aqua and Slate Grey, the super-comfy seats are expertly designed to help babies from three months old sit safely upright in the correct position, and are made of a luxe foam that is kind to precious bottoms and easily wiped-clean too. From £52.94, bumbo.co.uk

LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY’S ART SCHOOL HAS SEWN NEARLY 500 MASKS IN A WEEK TO DONATE TO THE UK’S MATERNITY WARDS SINCE THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS BEGAN. THE SCHOOL’S SEWING COMMUNITY IS CONTINUING TO RESPOND TO THE HIGH DEMAND AND WILL MAKE HUNDREDS MORE MASKS IN THE COMING WEEKS. LONDONMET.AC.UK

WIN ONE OF TWO PACAPOD CHANGING BAGS FROM METANIUM It’s treat time, and you could win yourself one of these stylish changing bags

Metanium is giving away two Pacapod Prescott changing bags (RRP £94) plus a Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion. This stylish bag has a pod system so you can easily find everything you need, just when you need it. Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment and Metanium Everyday Easy Spray provide protection from nappy rash. Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is licensed specifically to treat nappy rash. Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine, always read the label. metanium.co.uk

Enter online at

baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions

Get a wriggle on

Organic Australian baby brand ergoPouch has unveiled its adorable new range of summer onesies designed for little ones who are just a little bit too wriggly to settle in a sleeping bag. For fidgety sleepers aged three months to six years old, the onesies have an uber-comfy, relaxed fit with light organic cotton padding to allow freedom to move at night. The collection is available in a soft fawn, a dotty blue and a pretty pink quill print. £37.99, ergopouch.co.uk

Fizzy Peaches’ Lyndsay writes about everything, from cooking for kids to coronvirus coping mechanisms

THE SWEETEST OF DREAMS

Boori’s new Oasis Oval Cot is a perfect slumber sanctuary for drifting off to the land of nod.

The first oval-shaped cot from the popular Australian brand is available in three calming hues of Barley White, Beech and Pebble.

The unique curved sides and dainty spindles increase airflow for a safer night’s sleep for baby, while the sustainable wood and eco-blend bio paint mean that Boori is looking out for the environment, so you can sleep easy too. £349, boori.com

BEST OF THE BLOGS

A real page turner

If you’re after a gripping #selfisolation read, The Little Book of Self-Care for Mums-ToBe is an essential handbook for managing the joys and the chaos of pregnancy.

Doula Beccy Hands and midwife Alexis Strickland draw on their decades of experience on maternity and childbirth to offer advice on keeping comfortable, healthy and happy. From tennis-ball massages to nutritious pregnancy recipes, this is an entertaining read that will leave you very well-informed. Available from 30 April, £12.99, penguin.co.uk

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

FIZZY PEACHES BLOG

Lyndsay lives with her wife V and daughters Violet and Pearl in Brighton. Fizzy Peaches began as a hobby to document the couple’s travels, but with the birth of their girls, it has evolved to cover all things parenting.

She writes interior, food and family pieces, alongside moving accounts of her IVF journey.

Her Coronavirus UK Lockdown Diaries offer inspo for at-home fun and emotional tips for parents who are struggling. fizzypeaches.com

SIDE STREET STYLE

TOE-TALLY CUTE

Bobux and The Bonnie Mob have once again joined forces to do what they do best: create quality clothing for precious tots. Made from supple leather that’s extra gentle on precious skin, the Limited Edition Day Dreamers line features six new soft-sole styles that are all baby will need for this summer’s park picnics, beach trips and garden afternoons. In soft shades of mustard, rose, ocean and cream, styles include sleepy clouds, a playful bee, and a super-cool ice lolly. £22, bobux.co.uk

Laura is a South African expat living in Cardiff and mum to two sons. A fierce women’s rights supporter, she’s proud to be raising her sons to be feminists too. Her blog is her own inspiration mood board, a ‘melting pot of everything worth saying’, where she writes about her family’s adventures, parenting and lifestyle tips. Follow Laura on instagram for amazing photographs of her and her sons enjoying day-to-day life. sidestreetstyle.com

THE GINGERBREAD HOUSE

For craft and activity ideas for keeping kids entertained at home, this blog is your go-to. Jenny lives in London with her son and daughter and their super-cute bichon frise. She began her blog in 2005 and it’s an encyclopaedia of fab tips for little ones of all ages, and adults too; from after-school crafts to costume ideas there’s something for every day of the year, especially useful at this uncertain time. the-gingerbread-house.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 17

NEWS

Baby news roundup

From detachable socks to collars you can pop on and off, Pop My Way has added a playful touch to dressing baby up. Prices from £8, popmyway.co.uk

KATE FREUD Editor-at-large

A

nyone who’s looked after a small baby will be aware of their extraordinary knack for losing just one sock! So when I came across the brilliant brand Pop My Way, I thought its concept was genius. The bodysuits, tops and trousers all come with detachable socks and collars that fix in place with poppers. Everything’s made from the softest cotton too, so baby will love the suits as much as you do.

FATHER’S DAY FIND

I hope my husband Jack isn’t reading this, but I’ve decided to get him something extra-special for Father’s Day this year: these beautiful solid-silver cufflinks from Philippa Herbert. I’m going to get them engraved with the children’s fingerprints and initials, so he has something precious to treasure forever.

IN FULL BLOOM

I can’t resist a pair of bloomers, and these ones, with a matching dress from John Lewis’ Heirloom collection, are particularly sweet. The retro details will make this a favourite to pass down the generations. And I like that on hot summer days, tots can wear the bloomers with not a lot else. Created using cotton from the Better Cotton Initiative – a not-for-profit organisation helping farmers work sustainably and in good conditions – you know you’re doing your bit too.

Looking for something special for Father’s Day? Philippa Herbert has personalised money clips, key rings and cufflinks which make great gifts.

Prices from £345, philippaherbert.co.uk

John Lewis’ Heirloom collection is full of traditional pieces that look like they’ve been passed down through the generations. £22.40, johnlewis.com

RUB IT IN

Pregnancy can come with all kinds of interesting side effects – mine varied from baby to baby – but the one thing I did manage to avoid was stretch marks. And now, you have a helping hand too, with Mustela’s new Stretch Marks Serum, a concentrated formula jam-packed with active ingredients, such as passion fruit, which improves elasticity, prevents stretch marks and leaves skin feeling soft and supple.

Take a moment to look after yourself with this gently-scented stretch-mark serum from skincare favourite, Mustela. Mustela Stretch Marks Serum £17.95, feelunique.com

LET’S GET SOCIAL…

There are plenty of ways to get the lowdown on all things Baby

ONLINE

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FACEBOOK @babymagazineuk

INSTA

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TWITTER

@BabyMagazineUK

PINTEREST

@baby_magazine_uk

COMPETITION

WIN! a £500

Debenhams voucher

T&C’S: COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM 21 MAY 2020.

From fab frills to tropical prints, the babywear choice at Debenhams is endless

W

ith warmer, brighter days on the horizon, there’s a lot of fun to had in giving baby’s wardrobe a summery revamp – and where better to start than with the vibrant contemporary selection on offer at Debenhams? Launching this spring, the iconic department store has just added premium children’s brand Lola & Maverick to its huge kidswear portfolio, and to celebrate, it’s giving one lucky Baby magazine reader a £500 voucher to spend across all of its ranges online and in store.

Showcasing a combination of bright motifs and quality fabrics, the SS20 collection from Lola & Maverick is filled with creative detailing and quirky embellishments – from cute bows to pretty pleats and fabulous frills. For the girls, there’s

a gorgeous mix of dresses and separates featuring beautiful, bold florals and animal prints, with easy shirts and shorts taking centre stage for the boys.

And don’t forget that you can shop babywear across a variety of labels at Debenhams, both online and in store, from Geox and Lands’ End to Bluezoo, Monsoon and Maine New England – not to mention in-house designers Jasper Conran and John Rocha. For mums and mums-to-be, there’s a superb selection of maternity fashion, too, spanning extra-wide fit designs to comfortable post-surgery pieces.

Just head to our website to enter – and good luck! debenhams.com

To enter, visit baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions baby-magazine.co.uk | 19

Pebbly Introducing

Pebbly Bath Thermometer

Just right...

Inspired by nature, Pebbly is beautiful in design and faithful in function.

Gently shake to wake, drop it into the water and let Pebbly do the rest. You’ll receive a fast and accurate temperature reading through the simple intuitive light-up display.

Ensuring your baby’s bath is not too hot, not too cold...

Just right.

Nature’s helping hand for life’s little miracles Available now at

Shnuggle.com

LOVE S

Add some animal magic to your little darling’s sleeptraining routine with these four new vibrant pod patterns

WILD AT H EART

Fierce felines, chic cheetahs and elegant birds (oh my!) assemble in Sleepyhead’s latest collection. Releasing four new prints – with Harrods exclusively stocking the Jungle Cat – this Wild at Heart range is the most fashion-focused we’ve seen from the hugely popular Sweden-based brand. Our favourite? Well, we’re cat-lady crazy about the spotty editions, which are guaranteed to soothe your drowsy little cub into a gentle slumber. Available as both the Deluxe+ Pod and Grande, and as spare covers.

Prices from £80, sleepyheadofsweden.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 21

ADVERTORIAL

The Nanit Plus Camera gives an unparalleled bird’s eye view of your tot as she catches her ZZZs

Sleep tight, little one BENEFIT FROM THE UTMOST PE ACE OF MIND AND RE ASSUR ANCE AS BABY SNOOZES WITH THE NANIT PLUS SMART BABY MONITOR

ost parents would agree that a well rested family is a happy one – but did you know that sleep is also a crucial factor in your baby’s brain and memory development? Or that it lowers the risks of childhood obesity and postpartum depression in mothers?

It may seem obvious, but a good night’s slumber is more important than ever during those early stages of your little one’s life, not to mention on parental mental health and wellbeing. A smart baby monitor can help you achieve that peace of mind, and with its personalised sleep tracking and coaching, crystal-clear HD technology, and breathingmotion monitoring, the award-winning Nanit Plus Smart Baby Monitor can guarantee your entire family a harmonious night’s sleep, night after night.

The only baby monitor that allows parents to help their tot to truly sleep like a baby, the Nanit Plus also integrates with Nanit Breathing Wear to offer real-time breathing motion monitoring with no wires or electronics on her body. All so you can feel confident knowing your little one is safe, after settling her down in her cot for the night.

Each starter pack is for newborns aged up to three months, and includes one Breathing

M

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Band, which fits comfortably around her torso, plus a soft cotton Swaddle with feather-soft edges and secure stay-put flaps. Monitoring her breathing motion as she sleeps is easily achieved within the Nanit app, and should she ever need your attention, you’ll also receive instant alerts on both your phone and the camera.

The Nanit Plus camera gives parents an unparalleled bird’s eye view of your baby as she naps, as well as some much-needed reassurance in those crucial first few weeks and months of your baby’s life. Offering crystal-clear video technology, night vision, a zoom function and safe cable management, the camera also seamlessly blends into the nursery, and is available in freestanding mode, a wall mounting option and a portable multistand that’s great for families on the go.

Beyond that, the camera also features two-way audio, enabling you to speak or sing to your little one via the app, plus a ceiling directed night light that gradually dims as she falls into a peaceful slumber. You can even monitor the room temperature and humidity of the nursery, right in your app.

Every morning, the Nanit app delivers a highlight reel of your baby’s night, allowing you to monitor how long she slept, how well

she slept, how many visits she had, and how long it took for her to fall asleep. You’ll be able to watch her night-by-night progress, and celebrate the sleep milestones she achieves as she grows.

There are several camera configurations but the best option for new parents is the Complete Monitoring System, which includes everything you need to safely monitor and track your baby, her sleep and breathing motion – from the Nanit Plus Camera to the Breathing Wear – plus one year of Nanit Insights, which comprises video history, sleep tracking and coaching, and breathing motion monitoring.

To find out more about the Nanit Plus smart baby monitor and its full range of products, visit nanit.com/uk

SHOPPING

Plush toy £16.50, jellycat.com

Babidu dress £40, rosieandlula.com

Bamboo cotton collared bodysuit £22, babymori.com

COVER ALL BASES

Linen trousers £54, ilgufo.com

Kids Concept wagon and blocks £64.95, mamaandmax.com

Whatever the weather, your mini-me will need essentials in classic shades, from Nordic neutrals to evergreen

Pili Carrera romper £106, childrensalon.com

Stomp V3 All in One travel system £499, icklebubba.com

Lilligunga rocking reindeer £265, sorenshouse.co.uk

Cotton trousers £36, emileetida.com

S

ATURA

UPER N L

Leather sandals £77, pomdapi.fr

Wooden hook £14.40, oyoylivingdesign.co.uk

Wool cardigan ¤19.99, z-eshop.com

Wooden play gym £69.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 23

SHOPPING

Cotton blanket £59, bayiriknits.com

Mima Xari pushchair £1193, cheekyrascals.co.uk

Oeuf NYC shorts £20, alexandalexa.com

Move baby carrier £119.99, babybjorn.co.uk

Leather slippers £23, dpam.com

Cotton beanie £5.99, zara.com

Leather shoes £22, bobux.co.uk

T I N R O

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FE Mayoral trousers £27, childrensalon.com

Sleepyhead Deluxe+ Pod £150, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

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From lush palms to forest firs, turn over a new leaf by filling baby’s wardrobe with this summer’s freshest greens

Cotton romper £30, cyrillus.fr

Roommate lamp £54, alexandalexa.com

Cotton sleeping bag £29.95, littlegreensheep.co.uk

Cotton dress £24, dpam.com

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Cotton romper £36, numero74.com

Mesh bedside crib £199.95, snuz.co.uk

Cotton dress £32, cyrillus.fr

Wee Gallery playmat £89, mamaandmax.com

Leather shoes £40, bobux.co.uk

Cotton romper £105, mariechantal.com

Kids Concept tipi £120, mamaandmax.com

Cotton shirt £40, arseneetlespipelettes.com

Balance out the colourful accents and grey areas in your little one’s nursery with chic black-and-white designs

Cotton dress £32, noe-zoe.com

Wooden changing unit £499, snuz.co.uk

Cotton romper £16, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Plush toy £21, jellycat.com

Cotton bloomers £35, louislouise.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 27

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INTERVIEW

The couple have invested in a knitted Moses basket for the nature-inspired nursery Moses basket and stand £295, bluealmonds.co.uk

The expectant parents got married in July 2018

Millie can’t wait to see Hugo as a father

MY ESSENTIALS You’re nearing the end of your third trimester – how have you found your pregnancy?

It’s been so amazing, and even though it’s been a lot to handle emotionally, I’ve loved watching my body go through all these changes and feeling my baby kick more and more. I’m reminded every day what a miracle it is.

I’ve had a few ups and downs, of course, and have tried to stay quite open about this on social media, which I’ve found really helpful as it’s meant I’ve connected with other mums and pregnant women.

You’ve just launched a prenatal workout DVD with fitness guru Simone De La Rue. Tell us more.

Fitness is so important to me both physically and mentally, so I knew that when I got pregnant, it’d need to stay in my routine. I’m a big fan of Simone anyway and have been to her classes in LA, so when the opportunity arose to work with her on these at-home workouts, I was delighted. There’s still a lot of misinformation out

MILLIE MACKINTOSH

The former Made in Chelsea star tal s prenatal fitness, pregnan y ra ings and nursery rands there about what’s safe when it comes to exercise and pregnancy, and I remember feeling clueless in the beginning. That’s why working with Simone was so great, as I can share her expertise with other expecting mums too. The DVD features a variety of prenatal

workouts, plus tips on meditation and abdominal breathing.

How did you cope with adjusting your exercise routine?

It was hard at first to get my head around the idea of slowing down and taking it easy. I also felt quite Millie loved collaborating with Simone De La Rue for a prenatal workout DVD

sick for much of my first trimester, and of course it’s difficult to keep up an exercise routine when you’re trying not to be sick! But once I started to feel more like myself again, I was able to exercise around four times a week, but approaching it in a gentler way. It’s been so important to me to keep moving, and mentally, it gives me a chance to properly switch off.

Have you had any cravings?

Yes – in the earlier stages, I was craving all the beige food I could get my hands on, mainly because I felt so sick and that was all I could stomach. And although I don’t feel sick anymore, my love for beige food remains! I’m eating lots of toast and cereal, though I’ve been trying to have low-sugar granola instead. My sweet tooth has definitely increased, too, and more recently I’ve had cravings for juicy fruits and ice lollies.

Crunching on ice is my newest thing, although that can be quite annoying for [my husband] Hugo when we’re watching TV, as it’s quite noisy!

baby-magazine.co.uk | 29

Sebra mobile £49.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Millie’s been craving carbs throughout her pregnancy

She tries to keep active with gentle exercise up to four times a week

How have you found dressing your bump?

I was conscious that I wanted to make the most of my wardrobe, and not buy anything that I’d never wear again. There are, of course, a few things that I really did need, like maternity jeans and activewear that goes over the bump. Stretch dresses have been a huge lifesaver for me the whole way through, and it’s been a fun challenge finding new ways to style things. Now that

30 | baby-magazine.co.uk

I’m nearing the end, I’m really all about comfort and wearing my shearling-lined Birkenstocks with absolutely everything!

Patachou Liberty-print dress £57, childrensalon.com

Have you shopped for baby yet?

Yes, and whenever I have a low moment, I just look at all the clothing we’ve bought her – everything’s colour coordinated and so adorable! Childrensalon has some really great brands, and I love Rachel Riley in particular.

I’ve also found some Liberty-print pieces from Patachou, which are very cute. I’m so excited to dress her up in summer outfits.

What about for her nursery?

We’ve bought a gorgeous knitted soft grey Moses basket from Blue Almonds, and I love the Scandi look, too, so we’ve also found a few bits from Stokke and Scandibørn. Her nursery has a bit of a nature theme; we’ve picked out a beautiful wallpaper with lots of green trees and animals, and it just has a lovely energy to it.

Millie and Hugo have kitted out their baby girl’s wardrobe

What are you most looking forward to about motherhood?

It’s such an unknown at the moment, but I’m so close with my mum, and I can’t wait to have that kind of bond with my daughter.

Watching Hugo become a father and seeing him hold her for the first time will be incredible, too.

Any baby name ideas?

Ah, I’m not sharing anything! We do have a favourite, but we’ll just see when we meet her whether it works. We’ve picked some options for her middle name, too.

How will you be spending your days before baby arrives?

I think it’ll be relaxed. I’ll cook a few of our favourite things, then watch a few movies and spend some chill time with Hugo.

Millie Mackintosh’s collection with Pitusa launches at the end of April at pitusa.co. Millie and Simone’s PreNatal Workout Deluxe Edition DVD is on sale and available to stream now, priced £14.99

INTERVIEW: NATALIE KEELER. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/MILLIEMACKINTOSH; STUDIO1208

You’ve also launched a collection with womenswear brand Pitusa. Tell us more.

Pitusa is one of my favourite brands for summer clothing, and the collection is essentially a collaboration between myself and the founder, Clara. We’ve created a gorgeous line of easyto-wear outfits, all inspired by our love of travel. And while they’re not designed as maternity wear, everything is adjustable and none of the pieces have zips, so there’s definitely some great options in there for pregnant women too.

ADVERTORIAL Safeguard your child’s future health by banking their stem cells at birth with LifeCells

WHY STEM CELLS ARE SUPERHEROES There are many reasons why parents should consider banking stem cells, here are a few: • A perfect match Stem cells can be accessed through public banks, but there’s no guarantee of finding a perfect stem cell match or any match at all. Private umbilical cord stem cell banking guarantees a 100 per cent match for your child, a 25-75 per cent match for siblings and around a 10 per cent match for parents.

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Birth: a once in a lifetime opportunity LifeCells EXPL AINS HOW AND WHY YOU SHOULD PRESERVE YOUR NEWBORN’S STEM CELLS very 10 minutes, parents somewhere around the world are seizing the once-in-a-lifetime chance to bank their newborn baby’s stem cells, but why?

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Stem-cell collection is quick, safe and entirely non-invasive, and it can have profound positive outcomes for families.

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baby-magazine.co.uk | 31

Nice touch

Emma O’Donovan GETS TO GRIPS WITH THE BEST TOUCHY-FEELY RE ADS FOR YOUR LIT TLE ONE

JANE FOSTER’S DRESS UP!

By Jane Foster

An entertaining read with flaps and sliders which allow you to help a variety of creatures get dressed for the day ahead. Your baby will be able to enjoy this playful read over and over again. £9.99, Templar Publishing

BOOKS

Your little ones will love meeting (and hearing) all the creatures of the African savanna

SCIENTISTS: MY FIRST HEROES

By Nila Aye

This showcase of great minds who’ve changed the world will inspire tots. Push, pull and slide features bring the stories to life. £5.99, Campbell Books

WHERE’S MY LLAMA?

ILLUSTRATION: JANE FOSTER

By Becky Davies and Kate McLelland

Lots of soft, shiny, furry and woolly animals are waiting to meet you embark on a quest to find the fluffy Llama. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF PEEKABOO!

By Melissa & Doug

Take an adventure in a squeaky

hot-air balloon and still be home for bedtime. With lots of fun flaps to uncover, this washable read will delight mini explorers. £11.99, K’s Kids

CURIOUS KIDS: SEA AND SHORE

By Jonny Marx and Christine Engel

A stylish introduction to some of our favourite sea creatures.

With clever pop-ups on each page and lots of fun facts, this is the perfect read for curious minds. £10.99, Caterpillar Books

BABY’S VERY FIRST FARM

By Jo Lodge

This crinkly black-and-white cloth book will prove irresistible to the very youngest of bookworms,

with its high-contrast images perfect for helping babies focus. £6.99, Campbell Books

DON’T TICKLE THE LION!

By Sam Taplin and Ana Martin Larranaga

Take a trip to the African plains to meet some of its resident critters.

A fun read together adventure unfolds with soft textures to explore and a noisy ending! £12.99, Usborne

shared reading moments. £6.99, Campbell Books

I THOUGHT I SAW A... PANDA!

By Ruth Symons and Lydia Nichols

Enjoy for an epic game of hide and seek around a colourful fun fair, as you look for elusive Panda – and induce lots of baby giggles. £6.99, Templar Publishing

BABY ANIMALS

BEE: NATURE’S TINY MIRACLE

Packed with all of your favourite adorable baby animals, this book was created to help aid sensory awareness. A bright, jolly read with clever textures and page cutouts that’ll provide many fun

A rhyming tale unfolds as we follow a bee’s miraculous journey through clever page cutouts. A beautiful read for little ones. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

By Tiago Americo

By Patricia Hegarty and Britta Teckentrup

baby-magazine.co.uk | 33

AT HOME

OFF THE GRID

AS Chloe Thurston – BET TER KNOWN AS Chloe Uber Kid – WELCOMES HER SIXTH CHILD, EDITOR Rebecca Moore CATCHES UP WITH THE INSTAGR AM SENSATION TO TALK INTERIORS, INFANTS AND LIFE BY THE SE A

“

34 | baby-magazine.co.uk

y happy place is definitely the beach,” smiles Chloe.

“I love it all year round, although admittedly a little more when the sun’s shining!” This is what sealed the deal for the mum of six when she and her husband decided to up sticks to the south coast, near Bournemouth. “The most important thing for me when looking for our house was being near the beach,” she tells me. “I love that we’re able to walk there, it encourages us to go so much more often than if we had to get all eight of us in the car and drive!”

And it’s that very house, coupled with her six adorable children, that has seen Chloe make waves on the Insta-scene.

Creatively capturing her wonderful world of interiors and infants has seen Chloe garner more than 100,000 active followers since her first upload in the summer of 2013. Styleconscious scrollers can expect to see plentiful rainbows, wooden blocks and a retro-inspired toy – think Bluebird’s Big Red Fun Bus and Big Yellow Teapot – thrown in for good measure. “I like to think I’ve surrounded the kids with enough fun educational things, creative tools, beautiful toys and lots of books. Our house encourages lots of play,” she exclaims.

If you look close enough at the whimsical wonder of this coastal abode, you’ll soon spot familiar brands like Liewood toys and towels, Olli Ella baskets, and Happy Sunday Studio banners. But there’s no doubt about it, Casa Thurston has its own unique style. “I would describe my house as belonging to someone who’s very torn between being a minimalist and a

M

major collector and hoarder,” she says.

But with so many things – both in terms of babes and belongings – around the place, it surprises me that someone can be so, well, chilled. So what’s Chloe’s secret to keeping her cool? “I’m pretty laidback! Also, the kids are used to me calling them by another one’s name,” she laughs. “I read once that the more kids you have, the more relaxed you are, as each one takes up more time, until you have none left for worrying!”

As a mother with more children than fingers on a single hand, I may not be able to ask if there’s a favourite child, but I’m intrigued if a single room steals her heart. “My youngest daughter’s bedroom would have to be my all-time favourite room in the house. Although we have lots of vintage toys all of my actual childhood ones are in there like Care Bears, My Little Pony and Sylvanian Families.”

Something you won’t see much of on the grid is pictures of Chloe herself, as she describes herself as ‘always on the go’, which comes as little surprise. So when I asked her what we’d find in her wardrobe, she sniggers. “My wardrobe is very much ruled by what’s easiest to run around after the kids in... easy-towash T-shirts, sweatshirts and trainers. I don’t think I’ve actually worn heels for over five years at least now!” But would she have it any other way? I don’t think so. And her description of motherhood just about sums it up: “intense and hard work, but also beautiful and incredibly rewarding.” Now, where’s my iPad? I need to get my hands on that Big Yellow Teapot…

AT HOME

baby-magazine.co.uk | 35

AT HOME

36 | baby-magazine.co.uk

AT HOME

“I like to think I’ve surrounded the kids with enough FUN EDUCATIONAL THINGS, CREATIVE TOOLS, BEAUTIFUL TOYS AND LOTS OF BOOKS. Our house encourages lots of play”

baby-magazine.co.uk | 37

AT HOME

“I would describe my house as belonging to someone who is very torn between being A MINIMALIST AND A MASSIVE COLLECTOR and a hoarder”

38 | baby-magazine.co.uk

AT HOME

baby-magazine.co.uk | 39

AT HOME

Chloe’s top 10 brand buys LIEWOOD TOYS AND TOWELS MISHA & PUFF BABY CLOTHES GRIMM’S WOODEN TOYS OLLI ELLA BASKETS AND TOYS ORGANIC ZOO BABY CLOTHES MINI MAISON CHANGING MATS HAPPY SUNDAY STUDIO BANNERS VELVETEEN BABIES FELT GARLANDS WILDLINGS INTERIORS PRINTS HEY KIDDO STUDIO WORD SIGNS

40 | baby-magazine.co.uk

AT HOME

“ I’m laidback, but always on the go.

MOTHERHOOD IS INTENSE AND HARD WORK, but also beautiful and incredibly rewarding”

baby-magazine.co.uk | 41

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BABY TALK

B

eing a new mother is a daunting time and coupled with the current global uncertainty, we need to support our new mums as much as we can. As this month’s issue is dedicated to trends, I’ve been thinking about the new luxury: personalisation.

Parents can now customise everything from prams to teethers. There’s something very precious about making the perfect present extraspecial with a unique touch, so here are some of the best...

A pram is one of the first things to go on the baby shopping list and I’ve had my eye on the latest Bugaboo Fox2. Even if you’re just window-shopping online, there’s a Create Your Own tab where you can virtually build your dream version. I love how you can play around with the colours – the neon red is super-cool. £1,190, bugaboo.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

WHERE TO GO With most of the UK population staying inside, this issue I’m suggesting something a little different.

Let me introduce you to my wonderful nanny, Anita.

I’d recommend checking out her page on My Baba, where you’ll find hundreds of brilliant things to do with your little ones this summer.

My toddler was making ice catchers this morning, which I know we’ll have lots of fun with. From baby crafts to homemade rattles, there’s literally nothing Anita hasn’t covered over the years. mybaba.com/nanny-anita

Leo’s

With lots of time this holiday spent at home, I’m signing up to the Willoughby Book Club, which is a book subscription service with personalised choices for every reader. £39.95, noths.com

LITTLE LUXURIES OUR COLUMNIST Leonora Bamford SHARES HER FAVOURITE THINGS THIS MONTH

Blue Almonds on Walton Street, and online, is always brimming with wonderful products and it always has its finger on the pulse. I absolutely love this bespoke keepsake box which has a secret soldier hidden inside. £45, bluealmonds.co.uk

I’m a huge fan of My 1st Years and I absolutely love the personalised grey bunny-ear trainers. There’s also the option to put baby’s name on each side but I’d probably opt for just a single initial. £20, my1styears.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 43

FASHION

AH E AD OF TH E CU RVE ST YLIST AND PRESENTER Antonia O’Brien SHARES HER PRE- AND POSTNATAL WARDROBE LUST-HAVES

Layer and belt like this fashion-week goer to create the illusion of a waist. My mum-to-be tip? Keep layers light to avoid adding bulk Weekend Max Mara shirt £265, matchesfashion.com The humble blue shirt is having a bit of a moment, and this chic tied style cleverly conceals, enhances and cinches every waistline

GET SHIRTY

The wardrobe staple that’s always on-trend with a new cuff or collar twist, is all about layering, wrapping, twisting and styling this season – a great spring look for a onstantly anging figure

Wandler mules £320, farfetch.com

There’s nothing fresher than a crisp white shirt, and this oversized style from Zara will instantly energise your look; just add indigo jeans and slip on a pair of mules

Poplin shirt £25.99, zara.com

Layer a shirt and show off a print or cuff with a short-sleeved jacket; this Arket leather number is a great trans-seasonal piece

Maternity jeans £42, topshop.com

Just because you’re pregnant or breastfeeding doesn’t mean your underwear drawer should suffer. So, it's time you met maternity lingerie label Six Studio

Leather shirt £235, arket.com 44 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Jersey nursing crop top £65, six-studio.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK/AURORA ROSE

STREET STYLE, FW20, PFW

Organic cotton-mix cape £135, cosstores.com

FASHION

A huge fan of the jumpsuit, Hatch have taken it to the next level with this ultra-soft knitted style

Lounge lover…

et er you re no o fi ially or getting o y in t e ne orn a y u le, lounge ear is so u ore t at old leggings and is s irts ue as ere, ool neutrals and ags o style CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Knitted jumpsuit, $298, hatchcollection.com; slogan T-shirt, £95, bellafreud.com; Autograph cashmere joggers, £99, marksandspencer.com; sneaker boots, £230, grenson.com; Les Beiges Water Fresh Tint, £48, chanel.com; sheepskin slippers, £46, binibamba. com; Little Sister Baby Balm, £16, sisterandcompany.co.uk; maternity hoodie, £65, isabellaoliver.com

Cashmere jogging bottoms are quite literally the last word (or three) in maximalist luxury comfort and style

Chanel’s Les Beiges Water Fresh Tint blurs, smooths and lightly covers the complexion – ideal for days when you just need a little colour

Sister & Co. is the new darling in my beauty arsenal and my baby’s too: the organic Little Sister Baby Balm is great on his tush and my hands are always grateful!

Binibamba is now the go-to label for sheepskin pram-liners and matching mama and baby booties

Maintaining a getting-dressed routine is so important for our mental wellbeing; upgrade from slippers into these shearling-lined Grensons

# TR EN DING

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Super-sweet tailoring. Spring ushers in deliciously fresh colours, literally: sugared almond pink, mint choc-chip green and sorbet yellow being the current favourites for suiting up in. Layer a bold jacket over a print dress or a tee and cropped flares for a look that every bump can do!

baby-magazine.co.uk | 45

PARENTING

Home comforts ON LOCKDOWN WITH YOUR LIT TLE ONE? Kate Freud SHARES SOME AT-HOME ACTIVITIES THAT’LL KEEP YOU AND BABY SANE

W

being disconnected and shut away that sparks the fears of isolation.”

“It’s so important to make sure you really listen to the concerns of your friends and family,” she says, “and don’t be afraid to talk and share if you’re feeling worried or low too – we all need to accept help sometimes.”

Another lovely thing to do is to create a relaxation routine that suits you – when baby’s napping or has gone down for the night, meditate, listen to music, have a hot bath or put your feet up – whatever it takes, de-stress.

“I think in all of this, the important thing to remember is that we’re being given the opportunity to reconnect with our kids on a

IT’S ALL ABOUT KEEPING BOTH OF YOU CONTENT – AS THE SAYING GOES: HAPPY MUM, HAPPY BABY time to actually get older children involved and learning through everyday tasks and activities,” Angela says. “They can help mum with baby – changing nappies, during bath and bed time, these are all new life lessons.” You’ll find you’ll turn even the most everyday tasks into new learning opportunities!

Next up, it’s important to stay connected.

As Angela says, “we’re so lucky today, because without the invention of the smartphone we’d be facing a whole new level of isolation!

Make time to see your friends virtually.

Whether it’s Skype or WhatsApp, Zoom or even House Party (online apps where you can bring together larger groups of people), make sure you speak to and “see” each other regularly,” she explains. “It’s the feeling of

46 | baby-magazine.co.uk

completely new level,” Angela explains. “So find activities the whole family will enjoy – from rolling a ball to digging in the dirt, it’s the simple things we’ll learn to appreciate again.”

And last of all, this is a great opportunity to learn something new! “Take an online course or read up on a subject that interests you while baby naps,” Angela says. “We all have that lists of things we’d do if we had the time – well now there is time!” Perhaps now really is the time to enrol in that online first-aid course.

And most of all don’t be too hard on yourself. If standards slip a little, or your toddler has a little more screen time than you’d normally like, don’t fret about it. The most important thing is that everyone stays happy and sane!

HERE ARE SOME SIMPLE IDEAS FOR KEEPING YOUR LITTLE ONES HAPPY AT HOME

Make some musical instruments: upside down saucepans and wooden spoons for the dr ms and little ottles filled ith ri e or lentils make brilliant maracas!

Plant some seeds together: ...and watch your “beanstalks” grow. Perfect for even the littlest fingers ress is al ays a great place to start.

Give your baby a massage: after a relaxing bath, small babies love nothing more than a rela ing massage and it s the most precious time for bonding too.

Cook with the kids: it s a great ay to help yo r tot de elop her pin er grip ith handfuls of cheese, raisins, or chopped eg hy not start ith s ones eaning Now is also the perfect time to batch cook!

Have a dance party: babies love music, so get the whole family involved and burn off some of that excess energy.

Spend more time reading with your little ones: it s a lo ely osy ay to hile away the time, and something we usually struggle to squeeze in.

Toddlers love yoga: the happy baby, dog stretch and dolphin are all perfect for little people try online t torials on o e rom osmi ids oga and get some e er ise yo rsel hile yo re at it.

Create a simple obstacle course for your little one: small steps up, markers to go around and chairs to crawl underneath will keep them happy for hours.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/ALEKSANDARNAKIC

ith all the baby and toddler classes cancelled, coffee shops closed, playdates off the agenda and many parks being shut, mums are staring in the face of lockdown. So what can you can do to stay sane when cooped up all day with your tot?

Angela Spencer, natural parenting expert and author of Babyopathy: Relaxed Mum, Contented Baby! has plenty of useful tips, but first and foremost, she believes it’s all about finding ways to keep both of you content – as the saying goes: happy mum, happy baby. To start, Angela recommends keeping her routine as normal, or life will only get trickier with a cranky baby thrown in the mix. “It’s a great

PARENTING

Here’s the lockdown essentials we’ll be stocking up onto go the distance

GOING IT ALONE

Beaba Babycook Neo Food Processor £160, johnlewis.com Rockit baby rocker £39.99, jojomamanbebe.co.uk Organic Babies Nurturing Baby Oil £12, greenpeople.co.uk Baby app Free, itunes.com That’s not my giraffe... £6.99, Usbourne

Baby wipes £4.99 (pack of 60), zoona.co.uk

Foam playmat set £70, gusandbeau.com

Time on your hands? You can now download the digital version of Baby magazine for free

Jennis app Free, itunes.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 47

PARTIES

We’re spending more time inside than ever before, so a bunch of vibrant blooms will brighten a room

1

Confetti £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

THE DETAILS

2

3

The finishing touches make all the difference

Wooden wreath £11.49, partypieces.co.uk

4 Letterbox biscuits £25, biscuiteers.com

5 6

Ribbon £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

7 Cotton gift bag £4, marksandspencer.com

1. Cipriani flower bouquet from £34.99, blossominggifts.com 2. Milestone chalkboard £16.99, partypieces.co.uk 3. Personalised plush toy £26, my1styears.com 4. Cotton sleepsuit £19.95, snuz.co.uk 5. Woollen shawl £75, ghhurt.com 6. Piggy bank £125, tiffany.co.uk 7. New Parent meals (14 dishes) £127.50, cookfood.net

PARTIES

with Carole Middleton

NEW-BABY GIFTING

What better way to celebrate a much-anticipated new arrival than with a well-considered gift?

A

s beautiful babies continue to be born up and down the country – and more so now than ever – we could all do with a bit of cheer, albeit not in the usual fashion. If you have a friend, family member, or neighbour expecting a baby over the next few weeks or months, you’ve probably been wondering how you can show your support and celebrate a new arrival. A gift big or small, handmade or shop bought, will bring a smile to new parents’ faces.

This issue I’m focusing on new-baby gifting, and how you can go that extra mile by way of presentation, and think outside the box when it comes to gift ideas. While we all have a little more time on our hands, putting an hour or so aside to beautifully wrap, or box up a gift is a great way to pastime. Ribbons, bows, confetti and tissue paper rule the show, or perhaps you create your own hamper, with a collection of smaller gifts? Include something for mum and dad to enjoy – I like to add little suprise gifts like a mini bottle of fizz and individually-wrapped chocolates – and a keepsake for baby. If you're a dab hand in the kitchen a homemade hearty meal or celebratory cake is always a thoughtful touch! If not, there are some wonderful delivery services, too!

Foil balloon £2.99, partypieces.co.uk

New baby card £2.95, pockettiger.com

Cupcake selection From £22, rachaelskitchen.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 49

INTERVIEW

Natalie’s LOVES

Green vegetables.

“Anyone who spends time around me will end up eating a lot of green veg! For me, the health implications go much further than what’s on the inside – I’ve always had acne-prone skin and greens seem to help me keep that at bay.”

Yoga. Natalie admits to having turned to the ancient form of meditative exercise many times when career, lifestyle and life choices have left her feeling unhappy or unfulfilled.

HATES

Underwear. “It’s not so much my underwear that’s the problem, more other people’s. I’ve had boxer shorts thrown at me before while on stage and it’s a strange thing to experience!”

Being serious. “I’ve had periods in my life where everything has been intense and heavy. I now realise the best way to break free of that is actually to think happy, to look at what’s around you and what you have, and to believe things will be better. That’s so important for our families too – we need to project that positivity as much as we can.”

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Natalie has signed a new album deal with record label BMG

INTERVIEW

• TA L K I N G W I T H N ATA L I E I M B R U G L I A •

HITTING THE HIGH NOTE

The nature of the singer, model and actress Natalie Imbruglia’s stop-start career has always left her searching for something more. Now, with motherhood to baby son Max bringing delight at every turn, it seems clear… she’s found it ever brash, loud, overexposed or underplayed, Natalie Imbruglia is a star made famous by Aussie soap Neighbours and double-Platinum-selling debut single Torn; she’s someone who has remained constant and relevant almost by accident.

That instantly recallable single – which was followed by hits Big Mistake, That Day and Shiver – was actually released in excess of two decades ago. And in many ways, the emotions expressed in that four minutes and four seconds of pop perfection have very much patterned the singer, model and actress’s battles with fertility over the preceding 23 years…

“Wide awake and I can see the perfect sky is torn”.

Imbruglia’s desire to start a family has often been bandied around the same conversations that cover the trials of Kylie Minogue and Jennifer Aniston; and when the Sydney native turned 40 in February 2015 she did, by her own admission, wonder if it would ever happen. “Looking back, I had lovely friends, had been married [to musician Daniel Johns, frontman of the band Silverchair], a beautiful home and a career that I was proud of, but I’d long been at the point where I knew something was missing, and that thing became something I yearned for above anything else.”

After years of failed attempts, Natalie posted a statement on Instagram towards the end of July last year that confirmed the missing part of the jigsaw was finally going to be put in place. “No I haven’t swallowed a watermelon,” she began. “I’m expecting my first child this autumn.

“For those of you who know me, this has been something I have wanted for a very long time and I’m blessed that this is possible with the help of IVF and a sperm donor.”

While in vitro fertilisation is a familiar route to take for those struggling to conceive, Natalie’s advancing age (in terms of commencing motherhood) meant that, at 44, the success rate for

WORDS: .VIOLET WILDER. PHOTOGRAPHY: REXIMAGES/ JAMES SHAW/SHUTTERSTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/NATALIE_IMBRUGLIA

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IVF was just three per cent. “I’m used to pushing the laws of probability in terms of what I’ve done in life,” she says. “I’ve always managed to do things that are unlikely or improbable, but never of the importance of this.”

It’s perhaps ironic that for an artist so comfortable away from the limelight – she has released just one album in the past decade and television appearances have been limited to very occasional reality TV projects – the revelation that she was pregnant came at the same time she announced a new album deal with record label BMG. “I wouldn’t have planned it this way, but to be busy and to drive forward with a creative project that I’ll always look back on fondly because of this new arrival… well, that feels perfect.”

Resisting press engagements almost as soon as her heartwarming Instagram post was published, Natalie next emerged in October when it was revealed she had given birth to a baby boy, named Max Valentine Imbruglia. She revealed her “heart was bursting” in an emotional message that finally brought a close to such a long period of doubt and disappointment.

“I’ve been bowled over by the well-wishers and this has been a truly magical time for me,” she says. “I’m trying to savour every moment with Max - the days pass by so quickly, but they’re all different and incredibly special.”

While Natalie – who lives in the Cotswolds and, in terms of romance, has most recently been linked with photographer Matt Field – continues to revel in the self-isolation so many others around the world are experiencing, her seclusion is at least a voluntary choice.

In the past, as someone struggling to cope with the ideals and demands of fame, Natalie found herself agoraphobic and desperate to get away from the pressure of expectation.

How times have changed: “I’ve learned that isolation with the people you know and love is actually no bad thing – in fact it’s perfect.”

Natalie wel comed her son Max Valen tine last au tumn

baby-magazine.co.uk | 51

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DIARY OF A MUM

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Skillmatics Places Around Us, £19.99, smarttoysandgames.co.uk

Cannabis candle, £159, malinandgoetz.co.uk

Indulgence Face Mask Pack, £30, skimono.com

Goldfaden MD Doctor’s Scrub, £65, spacenk.com

Lavender Relaxing Bath Milk, £14.95, weleda.co.uk

@JAKKIDOODLES

MY TOP FINDS

DIARY OF A MUM PART 4

with JAKKI JONES

As isolation hits, home schooling reigns and mat leave begins, Jakki Jones tries to keep calm and carry on f you’d told me two weeks ago that I’d be quarantined in my house for the foreseeable future I never would have believed you. After pretty much hibernating through winter, I was looking forward to London springtime.

And that’s for many reasons: the sun, the pink blossoms appear on the trees, birthday celebrations, Easter egg hunts, serotonin levels on the rise…

We live in a bustling neighbourhood with everything on our doorstep; your pick of coffee shops, gyms, restaurants, parks, pubs, bars. Now a textbook-beautiful spring week arrives, but everything’s suspended in order to contain the spread of coronavirus. It’s a ghost town filled with closed shutters, until further notice.

I was taken by surprise when nurseries and schools were almost instantly closed. The government advised that pregnant women were now in the same high-risk category as the elderly and vulnerable, and therefore have to self-isolate. This sent me in a complete panic. I’m not good at staying in at the best of times and always like to have somewhere to be. My anxiety levels began to creep up. How am I going to stay indoors for the foreseeable future and keep four-year-old Riley entertained?

We happened to be in Wales that week when the news hit. This made the first few days somewhat easier as where we live is a very remote village.

Self- isolating is exactly what we do when we go there – soak up the beautiful mountain views, breathe in the fresh air, and relax. However, it’s only usually for a couple of days – a week tops.

We travelled back to London on day five – as we had to get back to see my elder stepchildren – and I felt scared and daunted.

My husband Kelly has been great keeping me calm and reassuring me to take it day by day. So that’s exactly what I’ve been doing. But home

r coronaviru s channelling he Riley has been ith dad Kelly music lessons w frustration into

I

schooling? Now that wasn’t something I had planned for the beginning of my maternity leave.

When Monday arrived – our official first day at ‘home school’ – the clock struck 10.30am and it hit me… how the hell am I doing to get through the 12 weeks, minimum? Don’t get me wrong I love being with my daughter, but keeping her entertained in a learning environment is a challenge. I mirrored a timetable from her nursery to give me a guide to stick to. As well as the hourly ‘learning blocks’, there were also scheduled breaks, outdoor times and even mindful-moment slots. But I’ve been trying to stick to it, albeit loosely. After school finishes, we chill and watch a movie or play with toys.

Online classes have been a useful tool; our local dance academy has transferred all classes to a Zoom meeting place – with the kids dancing live from their living room. It’s been amazing how quickly Riley has adapted. That being said, she’s definitely aware of the virus and says she can’t wait for it to be over. I overheard her singing Tomorrow from Annie the other day – changing the lyrics to ‘tomorrow, tomorrow – the virus goes away tomorrow – it’s only a day away’, which broke my heart a bit. But Daddy Kelly is a brilliant music supply teacher, and we’re having daily singing and guitar lessons!

As I’m in the final few weeks of pregnancy I’ve been trying to be kind to myself where possible and taking a little time each day for this, and I can’t recommend it enough. In order to keep a bit of balance, run yourself a nice bath, pop on a face mask, have a glass of something nice (mine’s an Earl Grey), read a chapter of a book, try a bit of meditation or perhaps learn something new. We’re in this for the long haul now and will need to adapt, stay positive and have something to look forward to. Hang in there mothers and mums-to-be, I hope you’re all doing OK and being kind to yourselves…

baby-magazine.co.uk | 53

MULTIMEDIA

Listen

up!

Sarah Dawson TUNES INTO 10 OF THE BEST PARENTING PODCASTS AROUND hether you’re pregnant, a new mum or a seasoned pro, sometimes we all want a bit of reassurance that we’re doing it right and that we’re not alone. And with seven million of us in the UK now tuning in to a different podcast each week, it stands to reason that parenting podcasts are having their time in the limelight. There’s hundreds of genres to choose from – be it expert advice on physical health or postnatal depression, conversations around parenting styles and potty training, or poignant pregnancy tales and hilarious light relief. If you’re new to the podcast party, here’s our pick of the best shows to download right now – perfect to dip into during baby’s naptime or a lonely 3am nightfeed, or to relax with after a long day.

Happy listening!

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OUR TOP 10 PARENTING PODCASTS

HAPPY MUM, HAPPY BABY

THE PARENT HOOD

SCUMMY MUMMIES

Giovanna Fletcher is the kind of mum you dream of meeting at a baby group: warm, understanding and very funny, the author and Insta-star chats with highprofile mums and dads (including The Duchess of Cambridge) about all aspects of parenthood.

The founders of The Bump Class, Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt, give an insight to the matters parents really want to know about, with a little help from the experts, in this amazing podcast.

Perfect for impartial, professional advice.

Hosted by comedians Ellie Gibson and Helen Thorn, nothing is off-limits in this hilarious podcast.

Keeping it real with games and witty discussions, the Scummy Mummies are the perfect antidote when you’ve just survived a tough day on zero sleep.

54 | baby-magazine.co.uk

PARENTLAND

DADCAST

Although the podcast isn’t currently adding any new episodes, there’s plenty to dip in and out of in this BBC series. Answering FAQs from real mums and dads – covering everything from dummies to toddler exercise – it’s a great listen, wherever you are in your parenting journey.

Four dads have a weekly catch-up to chat about excessive sleep deprivation, unruly toddlers, nappy disasters, sibling rilvary, holiday disasters, and so much more, in this funny, frank and addictive podcast about their ‘misadventures in parenting’.

Sit down, plug in and chill out as you listen to informative parenting shows, celeb mum interviews and lots of light-hearted chat

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/DAMIRCUDIC

THE MOTHERKIND BIRTH-ED UNRUFFLED PODCAST With a focus on pregnancy Parenting expert, Janet Helping busy, modern mums navigate motherhood, Zoe Blaskey’s podcast focuses on self-care, inner reflection and reconnecting with yourself, post baby. The perfect pick to help you feel a bit more ‘you’.

and birth, this podcast is led by midwife and hypnobirth advocate Megan Rossiter. Talking about birth choices, health and understanding labour, with fellow midwives, doulas and other experts, it’ll leave you feeling informed and positive.

Lansbury, gives reassuring tips to help you become a calm, confident parent, even when your toddler’s having an epic meltdown in the supermarket. The podcast explains all about respectful parenting, with advice you can really put into practise.

NOT ANOTHER MUMMY PODCAST With a different guest each episode, Alison Perry covers everything from body confidence to work-life balance. As a mum to a nine-year-old and 18-month-old twins, she has plenty of relatable insight to offer.

BREAKING MUM AND DAD TV presenter Anna Williamson’s no-nonsense approach to talking about maternal and paternal mental health, including anxiety and postnatal depression, is a breath of fresh air. An honest and funny take on the ups and downs of parenthood.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 55

SHOPPING

The Cocktail Book £8.99, shop.bl.uk

Lexon x Carhartt WIP Mino speaker £35, huhstore.com

Haig Club whisky £41.95, thewhiskyexchange.com

Comme des Garçons Play T-shirt £62, shop.doverstreetmarket.com

Lace-up sneakers £360, stellamccartney.com Changing backpack £49.99, bababing.com

Stainless steel water bottle £32.95, kleankanteen.co.uk

Earthenware mug £19.95, emmabridgewater.co.uk

Daddy and Me: An Activity Book £12.99, waterstones.com

Matching cotton socks £12, boden.co.uk Aiverc limited edition watch £234, wolfandbadger.com Maria Black ring £111, trouva.com

Heather Alstead print £19.95, trouva.com

One Air baby carrier £163.99, babybjorn.co.uk

56 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel £22, harrods.com

SHOPPING Make sure father and son are twinning in style this summer with this timeless khaki design

Eyevan sunglasses £385, mrporter.com

Lambskin notebook £145, smythson.com

Matching bomber jackets £155, man-cub.com Hand-engraved keyring from £89, mercimamanboutique.com

Lauder For Men cologne £58, esteelauder.co.uk

FATHER’S Whether he’s footie mad, a follower of fashion, a tech-head, a sentimental soul or all of the above, here are the best buys to show the dad in your life some love

day Changing backpack £65, micralite.com

Bernard Hughes print from £20, ltmuseumshop.co.uk

Matching jumper and bodysuit set £45, my1styears.com

Mulberry keyring £125, johnlewis.com

Bespoke baby feet cufflinks POA, wrightsonandplatt.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 57

TOT GEAR

UPPABABY UPDATES

Popular brand UPPAbaby has given its Vista and Cruz models huge upgrades. The Vista V2 sees revisions across the board, with enhanced features that’ll make life even easier for growing families.

The all-wheel suspension and softer tyres ensure a smoother ride and the XL shopping basket with rain-shield storage is more accessible, while the reversible toddler seat with higher back and deeper footrest offers optimum comfort. uppababy.com

tot gear

NEWS COOL AND CLEVER BABY KIT FOR NEW FAMILY LIFE

COLOUR CATCHER

Cybex’s most sought-after pushchairs, the Priam and Mios, are set to turn even more heads with fresh summer colourways. Now available in Mustard Yellow, Autumn Gold, Mountain Blue, Khaki Green, Soho Grey and many more, the strollers are even more luxurious, with premium finishes – such as detailed appliqué and stitching – on the seat and carry cot. cybex-online.com

Nuna continues to innovate. Case in point: this month’s launch, the PRYM, an i-Size safe car seat suitable from birth to four years. Thanks to its 360° design and Smart Ride lock-off™ for added security, it easily switches from rear to forward-facing modes.

With hidden features, such as the automatically-deploying side-impact shields, it provides serious protection when baby’s on board. £399, nunababy.com

TOTAL ECLIPSE

One of Silver Cross’s beloved models has seen a stunning makeover with the launch of the Eclipse edition. The Silver Cross Pioneer Eclipse is a striking new travel system with shimmering fabrics and rose-gold piping, stitching and badges. The glam look is completed with a sumptuous fluffy seatliner. Made to handle any terrain, the Pioneer Eclipse’s carrycot, multi-recline seat unit and changing bag inclusions make it an ideal choice for every family adventure.

From £995, silvercrossbaby.com

JOIE’S NEW I-SPIN SAFE – A DEDICATED REARWARD-FACING SWIVEL CAR SEAT – MEETS THE NEW I-SIZE CERTIFICATION AND THE SWEDISH PLUS-TEST CERTIFICATION, A RIGOROUS TEST ONLY A HANDFUL OF ROTATING SEATS HAVE PASSED. JOIEBABY.COM

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REVIEW

THE REVIEW

Ellie Fairman TAKES THE ICANDY OR ANGE OUT FOR A SPIN WITH PRECIOUS CARGO NEWBORN Ar thur AND TODDLER Kitty

A

fter our second baby Arthur was born, with Kitty still being under two, we really needed a practical and comfortable tandem pushchair for everyday use. The stroller we already had for Kitty didn’t have the option of adding a second seat so we were back at the drawing board, and found that the Orange model by British brand iCandy ticked all of our travel-system boxes.

Ellie can push twice the load easily with this deceptively lightweight travel system

Newborn Arthur gets some serious shuteye in the Orange...

GOOD LOOKING? The iCandy Orange is a super-stylish tandem travel system that has a real luxe feel to it. I love that there’s a great variety of colourway choices, from bright pops of orange to cool matte greys like our choice, Carbon. The quilted fabric is chic while being practical and wipeable, which is a big plus! What stands out for me is the dark grey aluminum frame, which is a great alternative to the traditional chrome or black of most pushchairs. It’s a really sleek contemporary design, plus there are lots of matching accessories too.

This tandem ride has a rising extension capacity for tiered, cinema-style seating

USABILITY Initially the pushchair appears quite chunky, but the frame is deceptively lightweight; ideal when pushing two babies around! It manoeuvres easily, even on the roughest of terrain, although I’d say it’s best suited to flat paths. But what really made this pushchair stand out to us is the 30 parent-facing and world-facing seat configuration options.

The unique elevators work in a rising

extension capacity, allowing the seat units to sit with a cinema-style view for both children. It’s super-versatile with a built-in ride-on buggy board on the base of the pram, which in time I’m sure Kitty will love. The longevity this pushchair offers is so useful for growing families in our position. It also has an enormous basket – perfect for popping out to the local shops or taking a picnic to the park.

Another feature I love is the large hood, with an extra visor and hidden side vents which will be very useful come the warmer months! The pushchair is simple to fold and release and folds pretty compact with a simple pull-up and push-down mechanism. It also has quick-release wheels so it easily fits into the boot of my Mini Cooper!

COMFORT At first glance the padded seat unit seemed relatively small. However, Kitty, who’s now a 21-month-old toddler seems pretty happy sitting in it for long distances and has enjoyed many naps with the seat in the recline setting.

The bassinet is a good size for larger babies, and can be used for overnight sleeping, which means we can travel with just one cot. We accessorised the pushchair with the iCandy duo pod to keep cosy in the cooler months!

VERDICT iCandy really has thought outside the box when it comes to a tandem pushchair. It’s a smooth comfortable ride ideal for a growing family like mine! It has a number of unique features such as the built-in buggy board and the elevators, making it super-practical without skimping on style! I’d definitely recommend the iCandy Orange! icandyworld.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 59

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HEALTH

PRETTY PRACTICAL

ALL THINGS MOTHERHOOD

Spring has sprung over at baby brand BBhugme, whose new collection of nursing pillow covers comes in a fabulous array of new shades, with a pretty, fresh feather print in pastel blue, pink and beige melange – reminding us that the summer sunshine is on its way.

Comfortable, machine washable, offering optimum support and designed to tie easily around your waist, each lightweight pillow comes in a practical travel bag so that you can breastfeed just about anywhere. Pillow £65, separate covers £25 each, bbhugme.com

with NEEV SPENCER

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ell, what a difference a month makes! In this time of newfound routines, the main thing has been trying to practise wellness techniques and create a safe, fun environment at home. Children always pick up on adults’ feelings so we’ve been mindful about how we communicate our fears.

In order to get myself into the most positive place about all this, I spoke to psychologist Dr Dimitrios Tsivrikos again about anxiety. He suggested a few actions that can help, starting with a social media diet and limiting the amount we consume, only watching the news once a day, and writing down our concerns each morning, then ending the day by writing down three things that made us happy.

Vivienne, who’s now a whopping nine months old, has recently been struggling at night, we called upon The Sleep Nanny, Lucy Shrimpton, to help us again. We used the reassurance technique, helping her to learn to self soothe to improve her daytime naps and get a full night’s sleep.

In more positive news, she’s now crawling really confidently. A recent lifesaver for me has been the Bumbo floor seat, which allows me to juggle housework with a curious baby who wants to sit up and be a big girl, all the while keeping her safe and in one place! Another shout out has to go to Kit & Kin, its homedelivery nappy service gets a huge tick from the Spencer household.

Catch me next month for more on my motherhood journey. Don’t forget to check out the online version of this column and follow me on social media @neevofficial

I’M LOVING...

This month I’m loving my new Ring doorbell, which allows you to communicate remotely to whoever’s on your doorstep. With the constant parcels and deliveries I’ve had over these last few weeks, this has been a huge help. Video Doorbell 2, £179, ring.com

health & beauty

NEWS

THE L ATEST PRODUCTS AND INNOVATIONS IN THE WORLD OF WELLBEING

Revolutionary luxury feminine hygiene and baby brand Cheeky Wipes is saving the planet and new mums all at the same time. Gentle on delicate post-birth skin, its extra-absorbent, four-layer period pants offer maximum protection for post-birth periods, with the high-rise style making them comfy even for c-section mums. The reusable Cheeky Mama Sanitary Pads are also eco-friendly, healthier and more cost-effective than disposable pads too. £12.50, cheekywipes.com

IN RESPONSE TO THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS, FOUNDER OF AWARD-WINNING BRAND MINI FIRST AID KATE BALL, HAS LAUNCHED A TWO-HOUR ONLINE FIRSTAID COURSE FOR PARENTS TO COMPLETE AT HOME, COVERING CPR, CHOKING, BURNS, BREAKS, BLEEDING AND MUCH MORE. £20PP, MINIFIRSTAID.CO.UK

baby-magazine.co.uk | 61

DEVELOPMENT

Rainbow bright TAKE BABY ON A SENSORY JOURNEY BY EXPLORING NATURE’S VIBR ANT SUMMER PALET TE WITH HER , SAYS Louise Pyne

ummer is a rich tapestry of bold blooms, sunny days and light nights.

Babies perceive the world very differently to adults, but as she grows, your tot will use her senses to absorb information and react to her surroundings, with nature offering a ready-made multi-sensory experience.

Some senses, like touch and hearing, are fully developed at birth, but others can take some months to mature. At birth your baby’s vision is fuzzy and she can only make out shapes and shades. By four months, your baby can distinguish contrasting colour tones clearly, and by the time she’s six months, she’ll be able to fully recognise the bright palette of colour all around us.

Chromotherapy, the ancient healing practice of using colour and light for wellbeing, can be a useful tool to help your tot’s wellbeing – especially in summer when we’re surrounded by a gorgeous spectrum of vivid hues. The idea is that each colour has a specific vibration and frequency that can affect our mood in different ways, and provide a rich learning experience. Here are the best ways to use colour to take baby on a sensory adventure...

S

blooming flowers or the strange movement of butterflies as they flutter past,” says child-development expert and founder of Dr. Gummer’s Good Play Guide, Amanda Gummer (goodplayguide.com). Let her sit or crawl on the grass. Green is the ultimate colour of nature and is thought to ignite balance and harmony, so it can help baby feel calmer. If you don’t have access to outdoor space, open the windows to let some fresh air and sunlight in. Hold her in your arms and using a soothing voice point out some of the sights around you, explaining their individual characteristics.

INVITE BUGS IN Don’t be surprised if she wants to touch everything she sees. This is a new experience

plants and trees and pick some bright flowers, letting her grasp the stems in his tiny hands this allows her to connect with nature in her own way. Display the flowers you’ve gathered together in a vase at home to remind her of the beauty of nature. You could even grow fragrant, colourful plants, getting her to assist you where possible. Let her watch from her pushchair as you plant seeds or pick fruit from trees, or if she’s walking she could help you spoon some soil into the earth and drop in seeds. She can help you water plants and flowers and watch how they grow. “Although she’ll probably be too young to remember being sat out in the garden with you, the smell of spring may still whip up positive feelings for years to come,” explains Amanda. Good flower colour choices include red roses, as vibrant red is associated with energy, fragrant lavender which helps create balance, and yellow sunflowers or marigolds help to keep her smiling.

THE IDEA IS THAT EACH COLOUR HAS A SPECIFIC VIBRATION AND FREQUENCY

A change of scenery can do wonders for young child’s mood, especially when she’s unsettled. If you have a garden or even a small terrace, take her outside in a baby carrier to get some fresh air and introduce her to nature.

“Simply spending a little time out in the garden during spring can give your little one lots of new smells, sights and sounds to enjoy.

Just think of the smell and colours of freshly

62 | baby-magazine.co.uk

GET GREEN FINGERED When you’re outdoors, allow her to touch sticks and even explore the feeling of mud on her hands and feet. Point out different

COLOUR IN HER NURSERY And it doesn’t stop once you’re indoors.

Inviting an uplifting palette into the nursery can turn your child’s bedroom into a positive environment that she’s drawn to. Softer hues can be harder for baby to see, so bold hues can be better choice. “Once babies can see colour they have a preference for the primary colours yellow, blue, and red. This means that these colours can capture and hold her attention for longer,” advises, Amanda. Use a variety of colours by creating a feature wall, you could use bright wallpaper or wall stickers that also work as learning aids. Jungles, farm animals, or a big nature mural are all also useful themes to stimulate her development.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/IULIIA KOMAROVA

SPEND TIME IN THE GARDEN

for her, and you’ll need to take the appropriate steps to keep her safe. One way to introduce her to the colourful insects all around us is with a butterfly garden kit, which you can buy online. It lets you see caterpillars hatch into colourful butterflies or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could create a homemade bug house out of strips of wood, straw and other natural materials to provide a hideaway for brightly-coloured insects such as ladybirds, dragonflies and bumble bees.

RUNNING HEAD

The garden is the best place to get baby’s relationship with nature and moodboosting colours started

baby-magazine.co.uk | 63

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ADMISSIONSROWANPREPSCHOOL.CO.UK 64 | baby-magazine.co.uk

RowanPreparatorySchool

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

I’m expecting twins, is there anything I should be taking extra care with?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/BERNARDBODO

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very pregnancy is special, but if you’re expecting twins, you’ll be in the high-risk category – and your care will be extra special too. You may not know that you’re expecting two babies until you have your dating scan, but if you’ve been pregnant before, you may have had a few clues that something was different, as the pregnancy symptoms can be more severe. Although the news may be overwhelming at first, you’ll find a way to make things work. Try talking to other twin parents if you can, as they’ll have plenty of tips to share.

MORE ULTRASOUND SCANS

YOUR ANTENATAL CARE

DOUBLING YOUR CARE

You’ll have more scans to monitor your babies’ growth and development. If you’re expecting identical twins, they may share a placenta and one may manage to obtain more nutrition than the other. So, it’s not unusual for identical twins to be born with the same features, but to be different in size. Small differences don’t matter too much, but your midwife will want to keep a close eye on you. If you’re having non-identical twins you can expect to have a scan every four weeks and with identical twins it’s likely to be every two.

As soon as you know that you’re expecting Here are a few things that you can do to make more than one baby, your antenatal team your pregnancy with twins more comfortable: will plan a tailored care programme. Multiple Eat little and often, but eat more You’ll need pregnancies are far more complicated, so extra fuel, so you should be consuming you’ll have more frequent check-ups, around 2,700 calories daily. blood tests and scans. Blood tests ed By including a wide variety Recommend will check that your haemoglobin of fresh, wholesome, product levels are high enough and, preferably organic, foods. if not, you may be given a The first trimester supplement to boost it. Your focuses on anti-oxidants, blood pressure will also be the second focuses on monitored closely too, because vitamin D, calcium and Vital DHA (60 capsules) pre-eclampsia is more common in magnesium and the third £17.50, zitawest.com women expecting multiple babies. on essential fatty acids.

Take plenty of naps Your body is nourishing two babies at once, which probably means two placentas and extra amniotic fluid, so you may also feel doubly tired. Put your feet up – backache, leg and feet swelling is common.

Improve your posture You’ll be carrying extra weight, so you need to stand and sit up straight. Invest in a pregnancy pillow to help support your lower back.

Go swimming You’ll find the water relaxing.

Use a flotation aid for support, and swim crawl or backstroke rather than breaststroke, so you don’t have to arch your back.

Slow down Get out of bed slowly by rolling on to your side first, and rise from sitting positions gently too. Your blood vessels are dilated, so blood will rush to your feet when you stand, making you prone to dizziness.

Enlist support Get some regular help with chores, especially any strenuous ones.

Prop yourself up Try not to lie down flat to avoid putting too much pressure on the major blood vessels supplying the placenta. Use a pregnancy pillow under your bump (lying on your side) with more around your back, so that your head and chest are slightly elevated.

Be prepared Reconsider your maternity leave plans. Twins are often delivered early, so you might need to stop working sooner.

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

baby-magazine.co.uk | 65

HEALTH

TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

HOME BIRTHS The sisters discuss giving birth in the comfort of your home IF I’VE OPTED FOR A HOME BIRTH, CAN I CHANGE MY MIND?

WILL I HAVE THE SAME ANTENATAL CARE WITH A HOME BIRTH?

ARE HOME BIRTHS MORE RISKY?

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Absolutely! Women opting for a home birth still have all the same antenatal care and scans performed by midwives who are often based in a hospital. Sometimes there’s a specific team caring for women hoping to give birth at home, and your midwife might even visit you at home for your appointments, rather than asking you to come to a hospital or clinic.

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Just because you’ve opted for a home birth, it doesn’t mean that the hospital will shut its doors to you if you want or need to be there.

You’ll most likely be looked after midwives who are attached to a hospital near you and you’ll have discussed transferring there if need be. Similarly, if early on in your pregnancy, you like the idea of a home birth but change your mind as the pregnancy progresses, that’s fine.

It might also be that your risk factors change during your pregnancy and while a home birth might have looked like a sensible option early on in your pregnancy, you might want or need to rethink as your due date approaches.

CAN ANYONE HAVE A HOME BIRTH? Home birth is only recommended for women whose pregnancy is low risk. If you have any medical conditions yourself or had problems in a previous pregnancy or birth (like a caesarean section), developed any complications during your pregnancy (like pre-eclampsia), have a multiple pregnancy or if your baby is breech, you’d be strongly advised to give birth in hospital, where doctors can keep a close eye on you and intervene quickly if they needed to. Where you give birth will always be a conversation between you and your midwife. No one can force you to go to hospital, but since the safe arrival of your baby is everyone’s priority, it’d be short-sighted to dismiss your midwife’s advice.

In 2011, a large study was conducted into whether home births were riskier for mothers and babies and it found that there was a slightly elevated risk of complications for women having their first babies at home. For women having second or subsequent babies, the risk was no higher than giving birth in hospital. For this reason, many women having their first babies will opt for a birth centre, a

midwife-led department often attached to a hospital which aims for a home-from-home atmosphere. That said, because the risk is very small for first-time mothers, plenty of firsttime mothers do opt for a home birth with a lower threshold for transfer. One thing to consider is your proximity to hospital. A home birth is probably more risky for a woman who lives two hours from her nearest hospital than for a woman who is 15 minutes away.

CAN I USE ANY PAIN RELIEF AT HOME? Yes, but your options are more limited than if you were in hospital. You can, of course, take regular paracetamol and when your midwife arrives, she’ll bring gas and air. Sometimes they’ll also offer you an injection of an opiate-based painkiller, such as pethidine and diamorphine. You can also use breathing techniques, visualisation and hypnosis, and often there’s an option to rent a birth pool so that you can be in the water for labour and birth. You can’t, however, have an epidural.

Where to give birth is a big, but not always easy, decision. When people book their antenatal classes with The Bump Class, we’re on hand to ensure that expectant mothers make an informed decision after carefully considering all options open to them, and educate them so they can ask their healthcare providers the right questions to ensure they make the decision that’s best for them.

The Bump Class is currently offering online antenatal classes so that you can take part wherever you live. For more information, visit thebumpclass.com. Marina and Chiara’s podcast, The Parent Hood, is a great way to start an informed conversation about becoming a parent.

Just search for The Parent Hood wherever you get your podcasts from. The Bump Class; An Expert Guide to Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond is available from Amazon and all good bookshops.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

here’s a theory that, since being pregnant and delivering your baby is not an illness, as long as all remains safe and a midwife is present, there’s no reason for women to give birth in a hospital. Indeed, most of our grandmothers gave birth at home – it’s only fairly recently that a hospital-based birth has become the norm.

There are of course two sides of the coin; the generation who has experienced hospitalised birth has also seen a huge reduction in infant and maternal mortality.

That said, increasingly research is pointing to the fact that if women go into labour and give birth in an environment which is familiar and safe, their births result in fewer complications, and so it’s something we encourage women on The Bump Class to consider when thinking about their birth options.

Like with most things in life, the decision where to give birth is multifaceted and the right decision differs from mother to mother.

There are plenty of women who hate the idea of giving birth at home, they don’t like the messiness or the uncertainty. The idea of going into a hospital specifically designed for the job, with equipment and medical staff to cope with any emergency is really reassuring.

But on the other side of the coin, there are many women who find that their stress levels go up the moment they enter the unfamiliar and sterile environment of a hospital and would much rather experience birth in the security of their own home.

HEALTH

The Bump Class antenatal sessions will equip mums-to-be with the essential information needed to make birthing plans that are right for them and their families

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BREASTFEEDING

The Breastfeeding Café with

PROFESSOR AMY BROWN

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

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HOW CAN BREAST MILK HELP PROTECT MY BABY?

ne of the biggest worries new parents have is their new baby becoming unwell, particularly given the recent coronavirus pandemic. The good news is that breastfeeding can help protect your baby and because of this the World Health Organisation are encouraging women, even if they’re infected, to carry on breastfeeding their babies. Although it’s too soon to have conducted any research specifically into coronavirus and breastfeeding, we know that for many other infections women who become ill with an infection start to produce antibodies in their breast milk which helps protect their baby against the illness.

Breast milk is a live product full of goodness designed to help boost your baby’s immune system. Babies are born with very immature immune systems, which they need to develop over time by encountering different infections and producing antibodies to ward them off. However, you can give your baby a head start with breastfeeding, because breast milk passes on specific antibodies to your baby.

Colostrum (the first sticky yellow milk you produce) plays a particularly important role in helping boost your baby’s immune system. It’s full of something called secretory immunoglobulin A, which helps your baby fight off infections by taking up

Colief Infant Drops £11.39, naturesbest.co.uk

Gaia feeding chair £399.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

residence in your baby’s digestive system, lungs and throat. When pathogens come along, it works by stopping them adhering to membranes and causing illnesses. It’s made in such a way that it doesn’t get digested, but manages to be absorbed and lie in wait for pathogens.

Colostrum also contains leukocytes, which are white blood cells that help protect the body against infections and other foreign invaders. These are not digested by the baby either, but hang out in the digestive system waiting for infections. There are approximately five million in each millilitre of colostrum. Put simply, these good cells eat bad cells that get into your baby.

Epidermal growth factor, which helps cells to generate and regenerate, is also found in colostrum. It helps the cells of the intestines to mend themselves and fight off infection. This is particularly vital for premature babies, who are at higher risk of developing a disease of the intestines called Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC), which is fatal in around 10 per cent of cases. Babies who are breastfed or receive breast milk are much less likely to develop NEC, probably because of the growth factors found in colostrum and breast milk.

Professor Amy Brown’s title The Positive Breastfeeding Book (£14.99, Pinter & Martin Ltd) is out now

Nipple Balm £16.50, myexpertmidwife.com

Widgey nursing pillow £29.99, johnlewis.com

BREAST MILK POWER Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs): Although some formulas now have these added, babies can’t absorb them in the same way as breast milk, meaning they get less. LCPUFAs are important because they’ve been shown to reduce the likelihood of adult diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. They also enhance eye and brain development.

Things beginning with L: Lactoferrin which helps absorb iron; Lactoalbumin, can suppress tumour development; Lactoglobulin has antioxidant effects; Lysozyme destroys bacteria.

Peptides: get to work in the gastrointestinal tract, encouraging mucin production. This stops pathogens (harmful substances) from attaching to the surface of the intestines.

Insulin-like growth factors: support optimal brain and cognitive development and help the heart, liver and kidneys to function. Having these as a baby may have a long-term impact – adults who were breastfed have higher levels and are less likely to have high blood pressure.

Cholesterol: Research in mice shows that high levels of cholesterol in the early months are linked to lower cholesterol as an adult.

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SHOPPING

THE REVIEW

FOR THOSE E ARLY DAYS WHEN YOU WANT BABY CLOSE TO YOU, Laura Mason PUTS THE BEST BESIDE THE BED CRIBS TO THE TEST Best for REFLUX

Best for

EASE OF USE

Best for STORAGE SPACE

Best for

LONGEVITY

Best for MOBILE

CHICCO

ext Magic

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Having undertaken several updates over the years, this crib has refined its features to support optimal sleep routines for baby and parents. The highlight is the ease of access via the sliding side panel, ensuring middleof-the-night interactions are stress-free. Its gentle rocking functionality is also great for luring a stirring baby back to sleep. £239, argos.co.uk

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JOIE

Baby Kubbie Sleep For a suitable travel option, this cot folds compactly and carried in its storage bag, making it ideal for nights away.

It features a drop down side panel and includes a full-sized bassinet that sits on top of the cot.

While it doesn’t affix to the bed like others tested, it can be positioned next to a bed to maintain close interaction. £99, uk.joiebaby.com

SNÜZ

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od

This flexible crib can be used as a bedside sleeper, bassinet or stand-alone crib as the needs of your tot change over time.

Babies suffering from reflux can take advantage of the SnüzPod’s incline feature, a leg that gently tilts the crib, utilising the power of gravity to reduce symptoms. The spacious, lightweight bassinet can also be removed from the stand for mobile use. £199.95, snuz.co.uk

SHNUGGLE

Air Bedside Crib

MAXI COSI

Taking babies from birth all the way up to two years of age, the Air grows with baby, cleverly converting from a crib into a cot to support key development as the body extends and develops. The mattress’ fibre core and the crib’s two adjustable mesh sides (which ensure maximum air flow through the crib) together lower the risk of baby overheating. £199.95, shnuggle.com

Not a case of style over substance, this sleek, new crib is one of the latest additions to the popular Maxi Cosi family. Featuring five height functions and a super-soft mattress it’s a good all-rounder; however the handy storage basket is its standout feature! It sits just underneath: ideal for having nappies close to hand for those middle-ofthe-night changes. £189, maxi-cosi.co.uk

Maxi Cosi Iora

SHOPPING The Shnuggle Air model’s ďŹ re ore mattress and adj sta le mesh sides ens re that a y doesn t o erheat as she snoo es

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INTERIORS

Moulin Roty kite, £6, bobbyrabbit.co.uk

Garden goals

AS THE SKY BRIGHTENS, IT’S TIME TO FOCUS ON OUTDOOR SPACE. INTERIORS GURU Ali Howard MOVES OUT OF THE HOUSE AND INTO THE GARDEN

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s soon as baby learns to walk they’ll want to get out and about. And what better time of year to indulge your little one’s sense of adventure than spring? Turn your garden or patio space into an extension of the playroom and watch your tot’s world open up. From Wendy houses to sand pits and home picnics to gardening activities for little (green) fingers, there’s plenty of alfresco fun to be had.

Kid’s rainbow tipi, £109, boutiquecamping.com

TIP: Babies as young as six months will love their very own garden swing. This cute cotton number comes with its own hanging kit and is ideal for sunny days outdoors Le Petit Renard cotton baby swing, £81, smallable.com

Set your littlest one up with a lawn chair to rest and admire her gardening efforts from Kids’ mini egg chair, £29.99, dobbies.com

Liewood gardening set £44, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

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Olli Ella basket, £29, bobbyrabbit.co.uk

Tender Leaf table £80, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Plum Play discovery nature hideaway, £799.95, scandiborn.co.uk

INTERIORS

TIP: Outdoor fun doesn’t have to end at lunchtime.

This shatterproof set is perfect for nature-loving little ones on the go Petit Collage bamboo dinner set, £22.49, trouva.com

My First Wooden Playcentre, £249.99, plumplay.co.uk

Djeco fabric playhouse, £59.50, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Crafting and colouring-in isn’t just for indoors: why not set up a well-shaded art station?

TIP: Reward your little gardener with a cheerful watering can that’s ergonomically designed for the smallest hands Quut large watering can, £15, kidly.co.uk

Jan Frog children’s chair, €24.99, blanke-art.de

Kids’ backpack, £26, sophieallport.com

Pure wool waterproof picnic blanket, £125, heating-andplumbing.com

Ooh Noo wheelbarrow, £103.95, scandiborn.co.uk

TIP: While it may to too chilly for paddling pools, a shallow and easy-to-step-into sand pit will more than do the job this spring. We love this spacious octagonal pit made from sustainably-sourced wood Plum large sandpit, £114.95, cuckooland.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 73

Qu “BA ote BY For 1 2020” 0% O ff

BABY-LED WEANING JUST GOT A WHOLE LOT EASIER *get 50% off your first order with code: BABYMAG *offer valid until 31.07.20

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WHOLE FOODS

Organic, cold-pressed baby food

Better than homemade*

Developed by Paeditricians to support your baby’s healthy development

Gently cold-pressed to lock-in essential vitamins and tastes – never heat-pasteurised!

littletummy.co 74 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Explore our menu at littletummy.co

FOOD

PROMOTION

GOODNESS, DELIVERED

Delivering healthy food straight to your door, sisters Jem and Avi have launched the UK’s first babyled weaning company, offering 100 per cent natural fingerfoods for babies and toddlers (and you’ll love them too).

Containing yummy superfoods like kale, spinach and chia seeds, the six-product range is flash frozen to keep in the freshness! littlesenseswholefoods.com

WHAT ARE COLDPRESSED MEALS?

By DR SOPHIE NIEDERMAIERPATRAMANI, Little Tummy’s inhouse paediatrician and co-founder

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very parent wants to provide healthy and nutritious food, and many parents feel the pressure of having to prepare several meals a day from scratch. Just as we choose to buy a ready-made meal or drink for ourselves, there are times when we’d like to be able to buy nutritious yet convenient baby food too. Unfortunately, many of the options on supermarket shelves are heavily heat-processed, and lacking essential vitamins and authentic taste.

Here at Little Tummy, we’re revolutionising the way parents buy baby food. We use a gentle cold-pressure method called HPP (High Pressure Pasteurisation), which utilises pressure instead of heat to inactivate bacteria and other germs to make meals safe to consume.

HPP also has some wonderful nutritional benefits for tots’ health and development: • HPP preserves vitamins and micronutrients, which are usually destroyed at temperatures above 80 degrees. This ensures that the goodness of the ingredients remains intact and babies benefit from a nutritious meal.

• Heat-treated fruit purées are more concentrated and therefore have higher amounts of free fruit sugar and less fibre.

HPP allows meals to be prepared at lower temperatures, keeping fibre intact and preventing the release of sugars.

• Most importantly, HPP preserves authentic flavour. Studies have shown that children exposed to a variety of fruit and veg during infancy are less picky about these choices later in life, creating healthy eating habits.

I predict that many more brands will be using this technique in the future. It’s exciting to see that baby food is finally becoming convenient without compromise.

littletummy.co

food

NEWS

THE L ATEST AND GRE ATEST TRE ATS FOR BABIES, CHILDREN AND PARENTS

The UK’s fastest-growing baby food brand Kiddylicious really know what it’s doing when it comes to tiny tummies. Its new ranges of tasty snacks, Melty Buttons and Juicy Fruit Bars, are the perfect portion size to offer nutritious fuel and help little ones learn to sel eed. mmy a o r combos include beetroot & raspberry and cherry & blackberry. Both snacks are dairy, nut, egg and gluten free.

From £2.35, kiddylicious.com

WITH THE NEWS THAT ONE IN THREE MUMS FEEL PRESSURE TO INTRODUCE SOLID FOOD BEFORE BABY’S READY, THE NHS HAS LAUNCHED THE START4LIFE CAMPAIGN TO BOOST PARENTAL WEANING CONFIDENCE. THE ONLINE HUB IS PACKED WITH WEANING TIPS, HEALTHY RECIPES AND FEEDING ADVICE. NHS.UK

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FOOD

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FOOD

GOOD

taste

PICCOLO’S INFANT NUTRITIONIST Alice Fotheringham SHARES SOME OF HER FAVOURITE SE ASONAL RECIPES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY COURGET TE AN D SALMON W I T H YO G H U R T Preperation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Makes 4 portions Suitable from 6 months Suitable for freezing Contains dairy

Salmon is a great oily fish filled with good nutrients for your baby. This lovely light spring purée is delicious, and quick and easy to make.

You could also swap the salmon for trout.

INGREDIENTS

Rich in omega 3 and protein, salmon is an invaluable addition to your little one’s weaning diet

• 1 courgette, roughly chopped • 1 medium-sized potato, peeled and roughly chopped • 1 salmon fillet, skin removed • 200ml boiling water • 1 Piccolo vegetable stock cube • 2 tbsp full fat yoghurt • 1 tsp olive oil • 1 tbsp fresh dill METHOD

Place the chopped vegetables into a saucepan, place the salmon over the vegetables, adding the crumbled stock cube and boiling water.

Bring to the boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

Lift the salmon out of the pan, setting aside the vegetables and cooking liquid and break it into pieces with a fork, checking carefully for any bones.

Place the vegetables, fish, half the cooking liquid, olive oil, yoghurt and dill into a bowl and purée with a hand blender until smooth, adding more cooking liquid if necessary to achieve a smooth purée.

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FOOD

M U LT I - S E E D B R E A D Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour Makes one 900g loaf Contains dairy Suitable for freezing

This easy bread recipe requires no proving or kneading. It’s also perfect to enjoy in pregnancy, as it’s full of fibre and healthy seeds. I always make two loaves at once and put one in the freezer as it keeps so well.

INGREDIENTS

• 200g plain flour • 400g wholemeal flour • 2 heaped tsp baking powder • 1 tsp salt • 2 tbsp sesame seeds • 2 tbsp sunflower seeds • 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds • 1 tbsp linseeds • 1 tbsp treacle • 550ml full fat milk or plant milk

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• 50ml sunflower oil • 1 tsp sunflower seeds METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas mark 4. Grease a 900g loaf tin.

In a large bowl (or food processor), mix all the dry ingredients together, and in the centre form a well. Slowly add the treacle and milk, mixing together until fully combined and you have a wet dough (a bit like stiff porridge).

Add the additional water if you need to make looser. Pour the mixture into the tin and sprinkle over the additional sunflower seeds.

Bake for an hour, checking with a skewer.

Take it out of the tin and cool on a wire rack.

MAKE THIS BABY FRIENDLY: when making this

loaf, before adding the salt, remove a small bowl of the mixture and add to paper cups in a muffin tin. Bake for 20 minutes at 180°C. There’s enough mixture to make one loaf with salt for adults and 3-4 salt-free bread cupcakes, or to make the loaf without the salt.

FOOD

K A L E A N D P E A P E S T O PA S TA

Peas add a touch of sweetness to a classic homemade pesto recipe, making it ideal for baby’s palate

Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking: 15 minutes Makes 4 portions Suitable from 8 months Pesto suitable for freezing

While shop-bought pesto is a timesaver, making your own is actually very quick and means you can cram in the greens in a really delicious way. I like adding cooked peas to my baby pesto to add bulk and natural sweetness.

INGREDIENTS

• 60g frozen peas • 100g Piccolo baby star pasta shapes • 100g fresh kale or spinach • 60g fresh basil • 40g freshly grated parmesan • 1 garlic clove, peeled • 50ml extra virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp full fat Greek yoghurt METHOD

Cook the peas in a large pan of boiling water.

Once cooked drain, saving the cooking water.

Add the pasta to this cooking water and cook according to the packet instructions.

While the pasta is cooking, put all of the remaining ingredients into a blender. Add the cooked peas and blend to a smooth purée. If it needs more liquid, add a touch more olive oil.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain and use what you need and mix with a tbsp of pesto.

Pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days, or frozen in ice-cube container for later use.

Alice Fotheringham is a co-founder and infant nutritional therapist at Piccolo.

Piccolo makes a range of organic baby meals, snacks and ingredients to fuel your family for a lifetime of adventures. Piccolo is committed to adding no sugar, salt or palm oil. 10 per cent of Piccolo’s profits go to charity. Visit mylittlepiccolo.com or follow on Instagram @mylittlepiccolo

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Online Boutiques ROSIE AND LULA

Constantly on the look out for unique, affordable and beautiful baby and toddlerwear, mum to two daughters, Rachael decided to start her own online boutique selling clothes, shoes and accessories for boys and girls, from newborn to eight years old. Understanding the enjoyment that parents get from dressing their little ones in beautiful clothes, every piece on the site has been carefully selected and approved by Rachael herself, with brands including Rachel Riley and Wedoble. This season’s collection features fresh summer florals and Scandi-inspired designs. rosieandlula.com

FOLK INTERIORS

Folk Interiors founder Katy believes everything you own should spark joy. With an interest in Scandinavian design, the brand showcases the best in interiors, for little ones and adults, and every ethically-sourced piece had been lovingly curated for beauty and functionality. From homeware to stationery gifts and toys, Katy’s brand is on a mission to help you create a beautiful home.

Shop simple, effortlessly stylish products from children's brands such as Maileg, Fabelab and Kids Concept, alongside brands for grownups, like Cozy Living Copenhagen and Bohemia. folkinteriors.co.uk

ETTA LOVES

Mum to Etta and Uma, Jen started Etta Loves to turn everyday baby essentials into stylish sensory pieces to help support your little one’s visual and cognitive development. By using the science of what babies can and can’t see, and with the help of her orthoptist colleague Laura, Jen creates clever and stylish patterns, from stripes and swirls to dots and leopard prints, to stimulate and capture the attention of tots. Her designs will look different to babies from week to week as their vision develops. Products include soft muslins, washcloths, playmats and blankets. ettaloves.com

NATURAL BABY SHOWER

When her son Dylan was born, Victoria Hampson noticed a lack of ethical baby products on the market and was inspired to set up Natural Baby Shower. Nowadays, her established store offers high quality, natural and meticulously-researched parenting products which are organic where possible and have absolutely no harmful chemicals – from baby carriers to buggies and skincare solutions to sleep suits. Winner of the Baby Awards' Best Online Retailer 2019, much of the product range is from small, family-run businesses, and all items are offered at the best prices. naturalbabyshower.co.uk

THE BONNIE MOB

Back in 2005, upon the arrival of her little girl, founder Tracey Samuel set about designing modern, colourful and distinctive baby knits that could be loved, played in and then passed around.

Committed to sustainability, the brand uses organic cotton when it can and only sources yarn approved by the Better Cotton Initiative. Fast forward nearly 15 years, and the ethos of The Bonnie Mob is much the same; the collection now ranges from newborn up to seven years for both boys and girls, with the latest designs featuring plenty of sunshine motifs, rainbows and bunny prints. thebonniemob.com

ALEX AND ALEXA

Home to more than 200 fashion, sportswear and toy brands from across the world, Alex and Alexa is one of the coolest online designer boutiques around. Founded a decade ago by husband-and-wife team Alex Theophanous and Alexa Till, the site remains dedicated to offering parents ‘the world’s best kids’ brands’ at the click of a button, from traditional childrenswear and functional clothing to trendy accessories and specialised sportswear. Shop stand-out pieces from the likes of Stella McCartney Kids, Chloé, Burberry, Fendi and more. alexandalexa.com

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Online Boutiques LITTLE GREEN SHEEP

In 2007, founders Mark and Paul discovered that most baby mattresses were made using synthetic materials and treated with chemical sprays, so they set about making the UK’s first certified organic baby mattress. With the simple intention of providing the very best for babies, Little Green Sheep now creates beautiful, long-lasting products for little ones from only natural and organic materials.

Shop mattresses, bedding, blankets and towels alongside pram liners, interiors, playmats and clothing in thoughtful, stylish Scandi-inspired designs. littlegreensheep.co.uk

SCANDIBØRN

For those who love the Nordic aesthetic, Scandibørn is the name to know. Launched in 2016, the family-run online retailer stocks a whole host of Scandinavian brands, from well-established brands to new and independent businesses, plenty of which are new and exclusive to the UK market. For parents and founders Grace and James, Scandibørn is a is a lifestyle and ethos, bringing you the very best in stylish Nordic design, from clothing and shoes to nursery furniture and toys, with stand-out pieces from labels such as Cam Cam Copenhagen and Ooh Noo. scandiborn.co.uk

MINI-LA-MODE

Having grown up in India, founder Fee understands the importance of high-quality cottons and muslins. Her brand produces beautiful, handmade baby clothes and bedding, hand-embroidered and screen-printed by traditional artisans in India, in a nostalgic English style; think broderie anglaise detailing and sweet pastel colours. Every piece is made from the softest 100 per cent organic prima Peruvian or Indian cotton too, meaning it’s super-silky and extra gentle on precious newborn skin.

These are heirloom pieces made to last and be passed down from child to child. mini-la-mode.com

MAMAS & PAPAS

From cots to clothing, pushchairs to playtime accessories, Mamas & Papas is your go-to store for everything you need for baby. Founded in 1981, the business was born out of a desire to better meet the needs of new parents, debuting with a range of coloured prams. Now, 35 years on, and with branches and stockists across the world, we challenge you to leave empty-handed. This season the retailer has launched a collaboration with Liberty London, fusing its award-winning Ocarro pushchair and best-selling clothes lines with an exclusive Liberty floral print. mamasandpapas.com

BONPOINT

Bonpoint is undoubtedly the haute couture of children’s fashion, with in-house design studios and stores all over the globe. Under the artistic direction of Christine Innamorato, each piece from the Parisian boutique is meticulously hand-crafted to exacting standards. Its classic range of clothing features signature detailing, unrivalled quality fabrics and beautifully intricate patterns and prints, catering for stylish boys, girls and babies. This season, the brand has unveiled a range of Liberty print pyjamas for littles ones and adults, choose from retro dinosaur prints, stars and classic florals. bonpoint.com

LITTLE GREEN RADICALS

Founded in 2005, Little Green Radicals was one of the first brands in the UK to receive Fairtrade Certification. It now sells 100 per cent organic cotton baby clothes, kidswear and accessories that are designed to adjust and grow with your child, then be passed on to another little one. Better for farmers, babies and the planet, the store avoids pesticides at all costs and are well on their way to being completely plastic free. Colourful, comfortable and made for adventuring, this summer's collection features rainbow and whale motifs alongside pretty wildflower and strawberry patterns. littlegreenradicals.co.uk

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BUSINESS The intertwined design of this necklace represents the unbreakable bond of mother and child Gold-plated personalised necklace £89, mercimamanboutique.com

Founder Béatrice began the jewellery label after hand-engraving her own keepsake gifts

Tell us a bit about Merci Maman.

Merci Maman was founded in 2007 by Béatrice De Montille.

Béatrice’s friend had just had a baby, and she wanted to find a gift for her that emulated that special bond between mother and child. Unable to find anything suitable, she began handengraving personalised gifts and jewellery, and through word of mouth, we moved into our first office in 2011. Today, we’re a team of 40 (38 of which are female), headed up by Béatrice’s husband, Arnaud, and have offices in London, Paris and Berlin.

Describe a typical day for you.

I oversee the UK, US and ROW (Rest of the World) teams, which covers marketing, account management, customer services and production. It’s such a happy and caring environment, and everyone really supports each other. All of the production is done in our London office, so depending on which time of year it is, I’m usually working between the marketing and production teams, ensuring we have enough stock and that we can fulfil our 24-hour turnaround time.

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Personalised gold-plated bangle £39, mercimamanboutique.com

INSPIRE ALIX STANWORTH

The country manager of Merci Maman talks team spirit, spreading positivity and making time for family What are the brand’s values?

We have four core values, which run through every aspect of the business. The first is ‘make’, which alludes to making something happen, from helping others to achieving your own daily goals.

‘Try’ means we continue to be ambitious and do our very best, no matter the outcome. ‘Share’ While working at Merci Maman, Alix has been able to also priortise her role as a mother

encourages team members to talk to those around them, sharing their knowledge and spreading positivity. Finally, ‘grow’ is a reference to the fact every day we learn something new.

How do you maintain a good work/life balance?

Merci Maman was founded

on celebrating family life and motherhood, and this is rooted deeply in the brand’s values.

Working here has allowed me to work hard in my career while also being a mum to my two girls. All of the mothers at Merci Maman are encouraged to attend to their child’s sports days and Christmas concerts, which is so important, as these are memories you build for yourself and your little ones.

What’s been your proudest business moment?

Launching our Cath Kidston collection in February this year – it was a great success! Months of hard work went into it and we were so delighted to be able to collaborate with such an iconic British brand.

What’s next for Merci Maman?

Watch this space! We’re working on lots of exciting new projects at the moment. We’ve also just won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for a second time, in the international trade category, which is another huge achievement for us. mercimamanboutique.com

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