Yummy Mummy @lifemagazines
magazine yummymummymagazine.co.uk
AUG/SEPT 2018 issue 23
Guide To Etiquette For Children The luxury parenting publication for discerning mothers living in London
Yummy Mummy magazine
FROM THE
F
EDITOR
or once the despairing pundits, pollsters and commentators are in agreement: children’s manners are getting worse. Table manners are a thing of the past, respect for elders is out of the window, and so on. Yet many parents riposte that it is no longer a question of manners, it’s a question of natural behaviour. Harrods is delighted to announce the store’s new one-stop family destination, bringing together an unrivalled edit of children’s fashion, toys and services the world has ever seen. The UK’s biggest pregnancy and parenting event, The Baby Show with MadeForMums, returns to Olympia this Autumn. The event offers new and expectant parents a huge choice of parenting must-haves all under one roof. JoJo Maman Bébé’s brand new collection of knits for babies and children is available in store and online now. The best-selling cashmere mix Fair Isle collection has been updated, with designs inspired by British nature and iconic symbols. Crew necks, tank tops, dresses and rompers are beautifully woven with fun designs of foxes, ducks, London guards and trains. Whether your child is a Royal Prince or Princess or not, their first day at school is a big milestone. Yes, your little baby is no more - you’ve now got a school child on your hands!
Alex Lux Editor
THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD
17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5HZ, UK
0844 800 8439
www.thelifemagazines.com © All Rights Reserved. Life Magazines are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd. takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in these publications and any loss arising therefrom. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to Life Magazines, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the loss or damage to such material. Fish Media Group Ltd. reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.
Editor Alex Lux ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• senior business ACCOUNT manager Vanessa Lane ••••• ACCOUNT MANAGERS Nicola Drew Lisa Westerman ••••• Directors Rory Smith Patrick Smith
YUMMY MUMMY
[ S H O P P IN G ]
BABIES & KIDS BLAST OFF! Blast off into space with these fun charcoal grey soft leather shoes with red, blue and silver rocket ship design. Perfect for any aspiring astronauts out there. These lovely shoes are made using baby safe leather that protects little feet while on the move. As with all Dotty Fish shoes they are designed with growing feet in mind and have an extra wide toe area, so they don’t restrict foot movement and growth. www.dottyfish.com
SKY HIGH Katie Hipwell’s new children’s collection brings all the magic of the sky to the home. Using hand painted watercolour artwork, Katie has created beautiful prints for fabric, wallpaper and nursery artwork. After searching for a wallpaper for her son’s nursery Katie was so disappointed with the lack of choice she decided to design her first children’s collection. Based in South London Katie designs everything herself. Everything is produced in the UK using a small range of bespoke printers. www.katiehipwell.co.uk
BACK TO SCHOOL IN STYLE
BATHTIME BEAUTIES This summer, Cuddledry made a splash with the launch of two brand new designs. The new toddler range celebrates bath time, transforming it from one of the most potentially stressful times of the day, and instead bringing smiles and laughter to bathrooms all around the country. Designed to keep little ones warm and cosy, the new loveable characters encourage imaginative play and make getting out of the bath just as much fun as getting in! www.cuddledry.com
Prepare your little one for the new school year with a personalised pump bag. They are ideal for P.E kits, swimming essentials and school equipment. Children will easily recognise their own bag on the school peg, especially when personalised with their name. www.britishmade.gifts
BALANCING ACT Scoot on over to the world’s lightest balance bike. Made by the multi award winning, world renowned Micro Scooters, the Micro Chopper Balance Bike has been redesigned for the kids of today. For ages 18 months - 5 years, this is the World’s lightest balance bike with Chopper inspired handlebars for greater control and in built suspension for added comfort. www.micro-scooters.co.uk 4 AUG/SEPT 2018
CONTENTS JUST FOR MUM
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PREGNANCY, BIRTH & BABIES
47
BACK TO SCHOOL
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The best ‘me-time’ events, and ways to keep mum looking and feeling her best Keeping you and baby happy and healthy throughout pregnancy and birth Whether starting a new school or a new term, we’ve got it covered
0844 800 8439
www.thelifemagazines.com
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Just for kids W
e are passionate about design; to produce great beds and to create inspirational bedrooms for children to grow up in. Despite being a small team of creatives, our product design output is huge and we’re always busy sketching out a new idea for a bed or mocking up a new furniture piece. We design all of our own products from scratch and spend lots of time working out the best way to make it and from what. And we brainstorm right through to how it will look in a bedroom as we have our own photographic studios and are constantly looking at trends and refreshing the look. Here we are joined by another creative talent – Fi – an expert trend observer and super stylist who crafts here magic and creates amazing bedrooms to inspire. (Contact Fi@ number21.style as she offers advice and interior design solutions to a lot of our customers). The challenge is to get comfortable, great looking beds that also “do a lot”. Even a traditional single bed can be transformed with a large storage Trundle underneath (and which can double up as a sleepover bed). If you raise the bed frame a little (so-called Mid-Sleeper) useful furniture can be added underneath. We add chest of drawers, bookcases and desks and all mounted on lockable castors so the configuration can be changed again and again. Not forgetting that the space underneath the bed is a perfect play den!. For slightly older children raise the bed more for the Loft Bed concept. In our case we make sure the elevated bed platform more than delivers on durability and security. We deliberately chose to stay with solid hardwood frames and proper mortice & tenon jointing in our product, as well as a solid hardwood lath base to support the mattress. Underneath a whole plethora of “smart” furniture – from desks, storage bookcases, futon chairbeds and luxurious sofabeds (and no foam blocks in our product!). It won’t be long before your child is “receiving guests at home”.
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“We design all of our own products from scratch and spend lots of time working out the best way to make it and from what”
The team at Little Folks Furniture have been doing this for more than 25 years – so we’ve got quite a lot of experience under our belt. We’ve a reputation for our expertise especially around safety standards (we even have our own “test house” where we can “bish bash bosh” our furniture again and again to make sure it works). But it is also because we understand and “do” manufacturing that elevates our designs; it’s not just about the look of the product but everything about how it performs, how safe it is and that it lasts. We believe we have taken the stress out of choosing inspirational and safe beds for children – combining our years of expertise for guaranteed performance and quality – and hopefully a little love. www.littlefolksfurniture.co.uk
YUMMY MUMMY
THE ULTIMATE FAMILY DESTINATION
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arrods is delighted to announce the store’s new one-stop family destination, bringing together an unrivalled edit of children’s fashion, toys and services the world has ever seen. Located all on the 4th floor to create ease and comfort for families and parents, the department combination creates the ultimate family destination and will house the most desired fashion brands such as Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi, as well as world exclusives from Wild & Gorgeous and Rachel Riley. Harrods brand new Toy Department has been also been relocated to the 4th floor. The store has a rich history in children’s play, with a toy department dating back to the 1880s – when rocking horses and steam trains dominated children’s shopping lists. Given the store’s 120-plus years’ experience, the new space is a world-class destination for children’s toys and games. The magical new Harrods Toys offers the ultimate array of products, experience and service.
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The space includes specialists who can demystify the number of choices and support customers in their quest to find the perfect toy or game based on each child’s age and stage, from pre-school to tech-loving teenagers. Continuing to house heritage toy brands like Lego, Steiff and Jellycat, as well as exclusives from companies such as Ivoy and Barbie, the department has been carefully designed with a unique adult-friendly concept. The rooms are divided into eight-mood enhancing sections, distinguished by the use of colour and designed to capture the imagination of customers, with dedicated staff on hand to guide parents to the appropriate room. Designed by world famous architect Farshid Moussavi whose designs are clean, modern and fun, the department sits proudly besides Mini Superbrands and offers the very best within the Toys realm, of which Harrods’ expert buyers have carefully sourced from all corners of the globe. Farshid Moussavi has created an environment that is luxurious and spacious, with a modern, fun
help you compile gift lists for children, as well as commission extra-special bespoke pieces. The Baby Gifting service provide the perfect gift for new families by celebrating new-arrivals with a bespoke gift basket that brings together the very best from baby clothes and skincare products to delicious treats to sooth teething aches and pains. Finally, the store’s Personal Shopping team, that prides itself as the largest in the world, offers a truly bespoke experience with unrivalled service, making shopping an effortless pursuit no matter your requirement. Throughout the year there are a number of fun and exciting activities with a busy programme of events to keep little ones entertained, including seasonal workshops, games and storytelling. For more information visit www.harrods.com feel. Designed with both adults and children in mind, the new room offers a playful sensory layout, while remaining navigationally friendly for parents using a technicolour ‘down the rabbit hole’ vision, ensuring their children can always be kept in sight. The three Educate, Engage and Entertain pillars encompass social awareness, coordination and growth through imagination, with the Harrods buyers carefully curating the new range of toys in line with this. Features of the new space include a fancy-dress fitting room, fun-filled activities, and daily demonstrations of the latest games and toy trends, all taking place in a dedicated pop-up area. In addition, throughout the year there will be regular weekend events, enabling involvement and entertainment for every child and adult. The designed space has a number of innovative store services available to all Harrods customers including the one-of-a-kind Toy Concierge – a unique and popular offering carefully position to help source the most exclusive and sought after toys. At the Toy Concierge, their team of experts will AUG/SEPT 2018 9
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Gifts that mean more – and give a little back O
ur mission at Print My Smile is to spread the power of a smile! Gifting has changed and making gifts more memorable is now a national obsession, so we like to go the extra mile to deliver personalised gifts that mean more – to you and them – to spread smiles far and wide. Our unique designs and easy to use personalisation software make it easy to give the most memorable gifts. We only work with the best suppliers so you can be sure your gift will be gorgeous quality – while our prices will make you smile too! We have a host of designs in our range of personalised posters, mugs, notebooks, and chocolate gifts. Find gorgeous gift ideas for weddings, back to school, get well, birthday, new home, new baby, and more! We’re particularly proud of our specially designed Smallest Babies range that gives a choice of unique and thoughtful gifts for the parents of premature or sick babies. It can be difficult to know how to buy for a family going through the uniquely traumatic experience of having a baby in a Neonatal Unit, so we’ve put together a specially designed range to make it easy to get it right. And a proportion of all sales of this beautiful range go to two fantastic premature and sick baby charities, Bliss and Born Too Soon, so we can give a little back to those working to protect the most fragile babies. Make your gift more memorable – because it’s made just for them – at www.printmysmile.com.
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YUMMY MUMMY
Get your kids active through exercise I
t’s never been more important to get children active. With use of the internet, mobile phones and computer games, this has resulted in lower levels of activity in children – which could potentially set them up for health problems later in life. That’s why kids need to get more active. There are plenty of activities that the whole family can get involved in which the kids will love (and parents too!). These will set a great example and contribute to keeping your children fit, active, and most importantly, healthy. Here are some top tips on getting your kids active through exercise….
Park life Whether it’s going on the swings and slides, or going for a walk followed by having an ice lolly, young children love the park. It has many places to explore and they can run around to their hearts content. It’s also free – which makes it an even more attractive option!
Activity trip Family days out such as visiting the zoo or a similar attraction usually involve an entire day walking around. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise, and is a beneficial cardiovascular activity for children and adults alike. So, a Saturday family day out can also be a Saturday family workout!
Fun run A fun run is a non-competitive opportunity for the family to exercise together and usually comes with a medal at the end. Children love rewards, which will be a great incentive for them to participate. There are many charity events that cater for the whole family, and the kids will learn about charities helping 12 AUG/SEPT 2018
those less fortunate.
School Activities There are many after school clubs that run activities for all ages, whether it be tennis, athletics or hockey, there’s certain to be something to interest your children – and organisers are always looking for helpers to marshal, coach, and generally help out, so there are plenty of opportunities for the entire family to be involved.
On your bike Cycling is a fantastic, fun-filled activity, and is adaptable to every age. If your children are very young, they can either sit in a special trailer or be strapped into seats on the adults’ bikes.
Walking The simplest of all exercise activities, it is good exercise and can be pitched at every age level. Even the youngest kid can toddle a short way. Decide where to make the walk more interesting to your children.
Swimming Playing in a pool is ideal for a family workout, and you’ll find that the kids will love jumping in and out all day! Swimway offer excellent swimming courses across London teaching children from baby upwards to feel comfortable in the water, to paddle and then to swim. You are right there with them, and with trained instructors they will be perfectly safe. With a little thought and planning, there are plenty of opportunities to get the kids active through exercise, with the additional benefit of some quality family time together!
YUMMY MUMMY
ABOUT SHREK’S ADVENTURE
Dreamworks Trolls are taking over Shrek’s Adventure! London This Summer until 3rd September 2018
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hrek’s Adventure is bringing the sparkle to London’s Southbank this summer by hosting their very own Trolls Summer Festival! Following an adventure in Far Far Away guests can get to party in true Trolls style! They can kick off the fun by stepping through the curtain to enter the rainbow filled world of Trolls. Inside this colourful world you have the chance to dance, sing, craft and even meet Poppy! So sit back and relax to watch some troll-tastic videos, including exciting musical moments that are sure to get little feet moving. Make your way to the craft station where little hands can get busy bringing the Trolls world to life! For those who have moves as smooth as the Trolls, now is the chance to put those skills to the test. For £5* children can take to the stage with Poppy and sing-a-long some classics including ‘Can’t Stop The Feeling’ as you tear up the Trolls dancefloor. Every child will receive a special gift to make their memorable moment that bit more special. To cool down after all that excitement you can try their unique Trolls’ Slushie – will you choose Poppy’s favourite colour pink, or green to match the leafy Trolls’ trees?
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*Pre-booked tickets for Trolls are £7.50 with admission on the day £10 this is separate to the cost of the ticket cost for the attraction For more info and to book your tickets visit: www.shreksadventure.com/london
Shrek’s Adventure! London is the capital’s newest family attraction, combining live action, stunning iconic sets and exclusive DreamWorks animation. Guests of all ages are whisked away on a 4D magic bus tour with Donkey as their driver before crashlanding in Shrek’s swamp where a fantastic, immersive adventure awaits. Familiar characters from the Shrek franchise greet guests along the way before everyone’s favourite ogre welcomes them back to London alongside the rest of the DreamWorks gang including characters from How to Train your Dragon and Madagascar.
Getting There Shrek’s Adventure! London is situated on the South Bank of the River Thames beside the Coca Cola London Eye, opposite the Houses of Parliament. Shrek’s Adventure! London Riverside Building County Hall Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB
Trolls Takeover The Trolls are also taking over the DreamWorks Tours gift shop from September. Trolls fans young and old can get their hands on exclusive DreamWorks merchandise as well as some retro Trolls goodies too! From pencil cases and lunch boxes to mini-figures and stickers, there’s something for everyone to take home. Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information
YUMMY MUMMY
The Baby Show Returns to London Olympia for its 16th year! Friday 19th - Sunday 21nd October 2018
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he UK’s biggest pregnancy and parenting event, The Baby Show with MadeForMums, returns to Olympia this Autumn. The event offers new and expectant parents a huge choice of parenting must-haves all under one roof. Whether you’ve just found out you’re expecting and you’re looking for inspiration on what you need, or you’re stocking up on all the big ticket essentials like a cot, buggy or car seat – the show offers a wealth of expertise and options. Over 200 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest and best products with the likes of iCandy, Tommee Tippee, Lidl, Stokke, Skip Hop, Britax and Chicco. The major baby retailers will be there, as well as smaller boutique brands launching their products for the very first time. There really is everything you’ll need for the exciting journey ahead of you – all at fantastic discounted prices! If you’re looking for personal and confidential advice, experts will be on hand throughout the show to answer your pregnancy and parenting questions privately in the One-to-One with the Experts area sponsored by My Expert Midwife. The British Red Cross will also be running regular half hour, free of charge, workshops where you can receive essential advice on what to do for your baby in an emergency.
Highlights of The Baby Show include: • Over 200 trusted brands offering visitors the chance to thoroughly test and try before buying. • Exclusive show offers and competitions from top parenting brands. • The chance to listen and ask advice from the UK’s 16 AUG/SEPT 2018
top baby experts. • Catwalk shows with all the latest fashions in maternity, baby and toddler wear. • Dedicated baby facilities ensure visitors have everything they require, including the Tommee Tippee Feeding Area where parents will be able to take advantage of heating and sterilising equipment, complimentary baby food and a comfortable space for quiet feeding. • Changing area where mums and dads can change their little ones with free nappies and wipes. • Peg Perego Drive & Go – a fun, safe and picketed fence enclosed area where children can experience the world of Peg Perego toys. • NCT Antenatal and Postnatal Classes - where parents can go for free support and information. • Emma’s Diary Shop & Drop. • The MadeForMums Buggy Testing Track enabling parents to test-drive every buggy to ensure it’s perfect for their lifestyle.
TICKETS The advanced ticket price is £14.70 on Friday and £15.70 for either the Saturday or Sunday, saving over 25% of the on-thedoor ticket value. On the door tickets cost £20. To purchase tickets and for more information visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk.
YUMMY MUMMY
Seven spectacular reasons to visit SEA LIFE London this summer
The only place you can see a plethora of marine life from Penguins to Crocodiles
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Until 3rd September 2018
his summer you don’t need to get wet to get close to marine life. You and your family can explore an incredible array of creatures right here in Central London. Watch your little ones’ faces light up as they are mesmerised by the sharks and turtles swimming all around them. So whether you’re looking for a family day out or a date night with your new love, here are some fin-tastic reasons why SEA LIFE London should be on your ‘must-do list’ this season:
MEET THE NEW STINGRAYS Joining the Pacu fish this summer will be Motoro Stingrays – also known as peacock-eye stingrays due to their spotted appearance. Visit the new Rainforest experience to catch sight of these beautiful creatures! Did you know? These freshwater creatures appreciate their space, so you will often find them hiding in the sand at the bottom. Keep your eyes peeled!
FACE THE SHARKS! SEA LIFE London is the only place in London where you can snorkel with sharks! You will come face to fin with several species including Sand Tiger, Black Tips and Nurse Sharks. Did you know? These highly intelligent creatures have to learn fast, once they are born the sharks have to look after themselves! 18 AUG/SEPT 2018
P-P-PENGUINS This summer meet the Gentoo penguins, these social creatures enjoy living in colonies and they mate for life! Did you know? They are incredibly caring creatures and form strong partnerships. They build nests with pebbles while they’re mating and then share the responsibility of looking after the eggs together. That’s definitely what you call a bond for life!
“SEA LIFE London is the only place in London where you can snorkel with sharks”
WALK UNDER THE TURTLES Their Green Sea Turtles Boris and Phoenix have been at SEA LIFE London for several years but are still just young teenagers. You can walk through their ocean tunnel where you can watch them glide through the water alongside an array of fish including unicorn tangs and puffer fish. Did you know? Green Sea Turtles are actually loners, they only bump into their friends once a year when they beach up to lay eggs. The rest of the time they prefer to glide around the ocean, usually eating almost anything!
THE DETAILS
TAKE A LOOK AT THE SEAHORSES There are four different types of sea horses at SEA LIFE London from Hippocampus to Big Bellied Seahorses. Did you know? Seahorses have excellent eyesight and their eyes are able to work independently on either side of their head - handy when they are hunting for food!
RAINFOREST ADVENTURE Are you feeling brave enough to trek through the Amazon? A storm has hit SEA LIFE London and Ranger Andy needs your help to unearth what lies beneath the surface in the Amazon. Immerse yourself in a world of creepy crawlies, charming crocs and curious critters. Come just centimetres away from the Goliath Bird Eating Tarantula, and race our colony of leafcutter ants to find the queen before watching the feeding frenzy of the UK’s biggest collection of Piranha’s! An adventure awaits, so what are you waiting for? Join Ranger Andy in this tropical jungle! These and many more mesmerising experiences, including Ocean Invaders: Enter the world of Jellyfish, the Ocean Tunnel and Shark Walk are just some of the incredible experiences awaiting guests, who want to step into the underwater world this summer. To book your summer ticket visit: www.visitsealife.com/london/tickets ·
Open seven days a week from 10am. Please check the SEA LIFE London website for last entry times, as these may vary *Prices from £21 per adult, £17 per child (3-15 years) Save up to 20% by booking in advance online Address: County Hall, Riverside Building, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB Transport: Closest tube Westminster VIP Experiences available
About Merlin Entertainments plc As Europe’s Number 1 and the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates over 120 attractions, 15 hotels and 6 holiday villages in 25 countries and across 4 continents. Visit www.merlinentertainments. biz for more information *Prices correct for 2018 admissions. Please note Behind the Scenes Tour tickets are priced separately.
WATCH CLOWNFISH AT WORK These colourful fish may be small but watch them travel in schools at SEA LIFE London and see how they work hard to keep their habitual anemones clean and healthy. Did you know? While the females lay the eggs, the males play an important role in helping to keep them clean and safe. Now that’s what we call teamwork! AUG/SEPT 2018 19
YUMMY MUMMY
Introducing JoJo Maman Bébé’s 2018 baby and children’s knitwear range as llamas, elephants and dinosaurs. There’s also a unisex cotton cardigan with the classic mallard duck embroidered on the pockets. All designs, including the cashmere mix are machine washable at 30 degrees. Prices range from £20-26. Available from www.jojomamanbebe. co.uk and in JoJo’s 90 boutiques across the UK.
About JoJo
J
oJo Maman Bébé’s brand new collection of knits for babies and children is available in store and online now. The best-selling cashmere mix Fair Isle collection has been updated, with designs inspired by British nature and iconic symbols. Crew necks, tank tops, dresses and rompers are beautifully woven with fun designs of foxes, ducks, London guards and trains. JoJo’s classic cotton knits have also had a facelift with new mustard yellow and sea green colourways, with a more exotic range of animal motifs such
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JoJo Maman Bébé was founded in 1993 by Laura Tenison MBE and has grown to become the UK’s leading mother and baby multi-channel boutique brand. We design and retail high quality, imaginative, practical clothing and products for pregnant women and families with young children. JoJo was launched 23 years ago as a tiny kitchen-table business with the stock held in a shed belonging to Laura’s parents in Wales. The company has grown organically and now has over 80 stores as well as trade sales to 50 countries. Despite this phenomenal growth, JoJo continues to operate with small company values and places a huge emphasis on great quality, fantastic customer service, environmental sustainability and loyalty to all involved.
“JoJo Maman Bébé was founded in 1993 by Laura Tenison MBE and has grown to become the UK’s leading mother and baby multi-channel boutique brand”
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Andre Van Nierop, Urgent Care Centre Clinical Lead In Casualty First
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ndre van Nierop, Clinical Lead, in the walk-in urgent care centre Casualty First ensures that patients and families receive first class care 7 days a week, from 8am-8pm. Andre, and the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth set up Casualty First 5 years ago, he comments, “The urgent care centre is truly unique in that our team of A+E Doctors provide care for adults and children from the age of one year, we see patients instantly and provide diagnosis and treatment on the same day. I’m proud to say that our average waiting time in now only 8 minutes!”
diagnosed serious conditions and been able to refer next or same day treatment, which in some cases has potentially been life saving due to early diagnosis. It is so rewarding to see the difference that it makes.” “A large amount of the patients we see are children, we provide treatment from the age of one and our child friendly waiting area and consulting rooms disperse any anxiety the kids might have from seeing a doctor. I see worried and concerned parents come in to see us who within minutes are able to see a doctor and the children, and their parents, are smiling and laughing again.”
Putting patients needs first
Visit Casualty First
Casualty First provides an ease of access to treatment that is essential when you are juggling a busy schedule, Andre explains “The urgent care centre is a fantastic facility for people to access our first class care, with no waiting time and the option to receive treatment on the same day or at a convenient time. We often refer patients to see a specialist Consultant or receive imaging and diagnostics on site, in the state of the art hospital facilities” “We have seen patients come in with minor complaints, where after our investigation we have
Located at the entrance of the world famous Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth in London, Casualty First is a self pay service with treatment available for all the family, including children from the age of one year. The experienced A&E doctors treat all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses. If you think you are having a heart attack, stroke or have serious head injuries please phone 999 or go to A&E. www.casualtyfirst.co.uk; 0207 432 8300; Open 8am – 8pm everyday; 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH
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“We see patients instantly and provide diagnosis and treatment on the same day. I’m proud to say that our average waiting time in now only 8 minutes!”
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The Ultimate Toy Superior quality electric cars that children love to drive
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s the automobile came onto the scene, so did the pedal car, and for years it was the coolest thing on four wheels for youngsters. Today, tots can choose from oodles of plastic, mini toy cars… but unlike the pedal car, they aren’t exactly what you would call family heirlooms. These retro Jeep and Land Rover replicas most certainly are, however. They’re the pint-sized electric car designs from Toylander. The UK firm began building the off-roaders in 1987, first with its debut ‘Mayfair’ model, and has since expanded to a number of variants in the present day, which include replicas of the Series I and II Land Rovers (Toylander 1 and 2), a vintage military Jeep (TL3 Army), as well as two tractors. All are designed to accommodate children, and an adult too if you fancy going along for the ride! All Toylander cars enjoy the features of a real car in miniature including ignition key, forward, reverse, foot and hand brake, lights, horn, folding windscreen and opening tailgate. An additional advantage is that speed is controlled through a linear potentiometer for a real throttle response from crawl to top speed, which makes for a nice improvement on the typical ‘binary’ On-or-Offswitch pedal that can be found on basic electric cars. Interested? Grab your tool box, because the Toylander can also be a do-it-yourself project. The company provides kits with all the bare essentials needed to build your own mini Land Rover – electric motor, controls, fuses, horn, wheels, axles and more – you simply order everything else you need and nothing you don’t. The Toylander 1 is based on the iconic Land Rover Series 1 that started production in 1948 and The Toylander 2 is based on the 1958 Series 2 Land Rover®. Their replica children’s Land Rover® gives firsttime drivers a taste of real-world motoring, and the 24 AUG/SEPT 2018
“All Toylander cars enjoy the features of a real car in miniature including ignition key, forward, reverse, foot and hand brake, lights, horn, folding windscreen and opening tailgate”
tough monocoque body has room for one adult and two children, with a safe top speed of 5mph/8kph. Choose the ready-to-drive option and your Toylander 2 will arrive fully built, painted and ready for your first road-trip. Ready built cars include 2 motors, 2 batteries, charger, spare wheel, number plates (chosen by you) and can be painted your choice of colour. These are hand made to order and can take 4- 6 weeks to complete, please call or email to discuss your order. A Toylander will guarantee years of fun for your little ones – they won’t quickly outgrow or get fed up with their latest ‘toy’. You can drive a Toylander around your private land or go exploring the outdoors by taking it out on a small trailer or in the back of your own Land Rover! For more details visit www.toylander.com
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Superhero Academy at ZSL London Zoo Until Sunday 2nd September 2018 KAPOW! School’s not out for summer this year, as ZSL London Zoo invites everyone to enrol in superhero training at ZSL’s Superhero Academy - a new adventure for the whole family to enjoy.
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s part of ZSL’s 2018 Superhero Takeover, until Sunday 2 September, kids will be able to dust off their capes and train in animal strength, night vision, agility and speed at ZSL’s special centre for superheroes. Once inside, junior recruits will learn how to harness the superpowers of the world’s most incredible wildlife. WHAM! After collecting their mission pack and mask from Superhero HQ, kids can learn about amazing animal super powers and complete exciting animal activities. Their first class is to learn all-important night vision skills from the nocturnal owl - using special goggles to spot potential food in its woodland home. 26 AUG/SEPT 2018
Fen Raft Spider
ZSL London Zoo
Asiatic Lion
WHOOSH! Next, kids can unlock the power of super speed, racing against the world’s fastest land animal, the cheetah, before mastering the leafcutter ant’s super strength in time to lift a three tonne taxi safely out of the way. ZOOM! Finally, students can climb their way to completion like the incredible gecko, mastering their toughest skill yet – defying gravity to crawl across the bedroom ceiling. After completing their Superhero Academy training, young heroes can have their very own graduation photo taken – just in the nick of time! Because new recruits will then need to use all their new superskills to help ZSL’s very own superhero Captain Z tackle The Maze – a tricky series of obstacles and challenges made by his archnemesis Plastico: a fiendish villain trying to overwhelm the environment with plastic pollution. The super experiences don’t stop there! Once junior superheroes have finished saving the day they can spend their downtime exploring the Zoo, discovering even more about the 19,000 superanimals who call it home. It’s time to don your cape, grab your mask and join forces with the ZSL superheroes and fight against some of the biggest threats facing wildlife! Superhero Academy is part of ZSL’s 2018 Superhero Takeover, a year-long celebration of incredible wildlife and the ZSL superheroes working to protect animals around the world. A great value day out, this super experience is included in the Zoo entry price... BOOM! Don’t miss out on this fantastic event - book online now at www.zsl.org/superheroes
Founded in 1826, ZSL (Zoological Society of London) is an international scientific, conservation and educational charity whose mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. Their mission is realised through their ground-breaking science, their active conservation projects in more than 50 countries and their two Zoos. London Zoo provides a great day out with a family friendly atmosphere. Set in the heart of Regents Park, it has been entertaining visitors of all ages with a collection of over 800 hundred animals as well as some fantastic shows and interactive experiences for over 150 years. From the classic penguin feeding time to the insightful talks held in an authentic living rainforest there really is something for everyone to enjoy. There are fun and games galore to be had in the kid’s zone including a range of special exhibits designed to be as informative as they are exciting. Children are free to explore a treetop village; a
secret underground world as well as the ‘Touch Zone’ which provides a safe environment for them interacts with all of their favourite creatures. Get closer to the animals than ever before when you ‘Meet the Monkeys’ in the biggest enclosure of its kind in Britain. Take an urban safari through the open plan area where nothing stands between you and the Bolivian blackedcapped squirrel Monkeys in their natural habitat. There is so much to do at London Zoo you may struggle to fit it all into one day! For more information visit www.zsl.org. Regent’s Park, London, England NW1 4RY
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YUMMY MUMMY
SafeTheinSun Exposing your child to too much sun may increase their risk of skin cancer later in life. Sunburn can also cause considerable pain and discomfort in the short term.
Tips to protect your child from sunburn • Encourage your child to play in the shade – for example, under trees – especially between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest. • Keep babies under the age of six months out of direct sunlight, especially around midday. • Cover exposed parts of your child’s skin with sunscreen, even on cloudy or overcast days. Use one that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or above and is effective against UVA and UVB. Don’t forget to apply it to their shoulders, nose, ears, cheeks and the tops of their feet. Reapply often throughout the day. • Be especially careful to protect your child’s shoulders and the back of their neck when they’re playing, as these are the most common areas for sunburn. • Cover your child up in loose, baggy cotton clothes, such as an oversized T-shirt with sleeves. • Get your child to wear a floppy hat with a wide brim that shades their face and neck.w • Protect your child’s eyes with sunglasses that meet the British Standard (BSEN 1836:2005) and carry the “CE” mark (check the label or ask the manufacturer). • If your child is swimming, use a waterproof sunblock of factor 15 or above. Reapply after towelling. 28 AUG/SEPT 2018
“Be especially careful to protect your child’s shoulders and the back of their neck when they’re playing, as these are the most common areas for sunburn”
YUMMY YUMMY MUMMY MUMMY
ROARS INTO LONDON Greenwich Peninsula, Until September 2018
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new multimillion-pound attraction that brings dinosaurs to life as never before has arrived in London for the first time. A unique, immersive live adventure, it has played to sell-out audiences of tens of thousands in its debut season at Birmingham’s NEC. The show’s unique time machine is set up on Greenwich Peninsula and takes families back an astonishing 67 million years to encounter amazing creatures like Tyrannosaurus rex roaming the wild. Londoners are immersed in an unforgettable experience that, for the very first time, makes them feel as though they are actually there – amongst the dinosaurs, in their world, at their time. Dinosaur tourists are whisked by time machine to join scientists at an extraordinary research station – TimeBase 67 – which has been built on the Late Cretaceous plains 67 million years ago. On the ultimate voyage of discovery, they drive with their guides through lumbering herds of dangerous dinosaurs, watch a dinosaur autopsy, witness hatchlings emerging from eggs, plunge their hands into dinosaur poo, and visit a lookout, with panoramic views of the teeming prehistoric life in every direction. The Creative Director of Dinosaurs in the Wild, Tim Haines, was the award-winning producer of the BBC TV series Walking with Dinosaurs, seen by 800
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“The show’s unique time machine is set up on Greenwich Peninsula and takes families back an astonishing 67 million years to encounter amazing creatures”
million globally. Tim says, “After the huge crowds for Dinosaurs in the Wild in Birmingham, and then anticipation we’re already seeing for our move to Manchester in October, we’re thrilled to announce that Londoners are able to time-travel too. It’s a completely new kind of immersive experience, in which we use the latest technology to make it feel like you really are there in that world, with the dinosaurs all around you.” Over a hundred artists, technicians and other industry specialists worked to create the unique experience. It weaves together high-tech audiovisual effects, animatronics and live-action theatre to allow visitors to experience the prehistoric world in a way that has never been possible before. The 70-minute adventure vividly reveals dinosaurs as they really were. Far from being green and scaly creatures, experts now believe that many were colourful and had feathers and fuzz. Dinosaurs in the Wild is open until September 2018 on Greenwich Peninsula, just a few minutes from North Greenwich Underground station. Tickets to Dinosaurs in the Wild can be booked at www.dinosaursinthewild.com and start from £25 for Advanced Off-peak adult tickets and £85 for Advanced Off-peak family tickets (2 adults and 2 children).
YUMMY MUMMY
Free family minibeast roadshows uncover Royal Parks’ hidden inhabitants Throughout August
About invertebrates • Invertebrates are creatures without a backbone, including insects like ants, beetles, flies and bees, as well as snails, slugs and worms • Invertebrates play a vital role in our ecosystems, pollinating plants, breaking down green waste and providing a food source for birds and small mammals. • Over 95% of all known species of animals are invertebrates.
Roadshow dates and locations are:
Mission: Invertebrate was launched in 2017 to help discover, celebrate and protect the nature’s unsung workforce living in the 5,000 acres of London’s Royal Parks. The project has received £1.3m in support from the players of People’s Postcode Lottery, which is enabling The Royal Parks to lead the way in urban conservation, providing a sustainable home for all wildlife in the heart of our ever-expanding capital, and encouraging people to get outside and get involved in doing the same. Visit www.royalparks.org.uk/ missioninvertebrate for further details.
The Royal Parks 7 August Hyde Park, The Cockpit
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oung bug enthusiasts have the chance to learn more about the amazing minibeasts that call London’s parks home this summer with The Royal Parks charity’s Mission: Invertebrate Thanks to support from the players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Mission: Invertebrate raises public awareness of the vital role these creatures, which include snails, worms, spiders and insects, play in our ecosystem. With many native species of invertebrates under threat, the project hopes to get people involved in conservation work to help them thrive. Families can uncover the fascinating secrets of a host of invertebrate, through bug hunting, critter crafting and interactive storytelling at each of the capital’s eight Royal Parks – St James’s Park, The Green Park, The Regent’s Park, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park and Bushy Park. Activities take place between 11am and 3pm, and are free with no booking required. 32 AUG/SEPT 2018
9 August The Regent’s Park, The Espresso Bar 14 August Bushy Park, Playground 16 August Kensington Gardens, Diana Playground 21 August Greenwich Park, Pavilion Café 23 August Richmond Park, Pembroke Lodge 28 August Green Park, off The Broad Walk 30 August Green Park, off The Broad Walk
The Royal Parks is a charity created in March 2017 to manage and fundraise for 5,000 acres of historic Royal parkland across London. Every year, 77 million visitors enjoy London’s eight Royal Parks for their unparalleled opportunities for enjoyment, exploration and healthy living in the heart of London. The charity also looks after other important open spaces in London, including Brompton Cemetery, Victoria Tower Gardens and Canning Green. The parks are owned by the Crown with their responsibility resting with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. The Royal Parks charity manages the parks on behalf of the government. For further information about The Royal Parks charity, please visit: www.royalparks.org.uk.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NANNY? Then look no further as we here at Baby Steps have a combination of 20years experience of both Nannying and Recruitment.
Are you considering private/independent midwifery care? At Neighbourhood Midwives we believe that every woman should have a positive birth experience and a great transition to parenthood. With a Neighbourhood Midwife by your side you will feel supported, listened to and confident. Antenatal visits at home, 24/7 oncall availability for labour and birth at home or in hospital, and 6 weeks’ postnatal care. Full care or postnatal only packages available. Having Tina there for the birth completely transformed the experience for me - her presence was so comforting and reassuring, and having someone advocate for me throughout the process was invaluable. – Harriet.
www.neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk 0208 874 6624
• We understand the importance of your Childs happiness and wellbeing. • We pride ourselves on our unique and personal service to ensure that your specific requirements are perfectly met. • Whether you are looking for temp, perm, full time, part time, live in or live out – we can help !! WE ALSO OPERATE AN EMERGENCY NANNY SERVICE as we all know life doesn’t always go to plan !! If you would like to know more – call us for a no obligation informal chat on 0208 652 9949 or 07879 557 329 and ask for Lou or Debbie or email info@babystepsnannies.co.uk. www.babystepsnannies.co.uk
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07/11/2017 07:32
just for mum
– The best ‘me-time’ events, and ways to keep mum looking and feeling her best – i mage : R O O F TO P YO G A AT T H E B E R K E L E Y
YUMMY MUMMY
These potent powders must be activated with water in order to release their glow-giving powers. Did you know that some skincare products are a lot like vegetables? Hear me out on this one…WORDS: Katie Wright, Press Association
UP
BRIGHTEN I
n the same way you should steam carrots instead of boiling them in water to preserve the vitamin content, some formulas are packed with powerful, but delicate nutrients that have to be kept dry to maintain their potency. These powder-based serums need to be mixed with liquid so that the vitamins and actives can penetrate your skin and deliver maximum benefits. And the benefits can be truly remarkable. Use an activated product as a temporary booster treatment over a few weeks and you can expect to see a clearer, calmer and altogether brighter complexion. So keep munching on those veggies to soothe your skin from the inside, and complement your five-a-day with a pick from this nutritious selection...
Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C With 10% vitamin C, this is the highest concentration of any product from the brand. One vial gives you seven days of serum (to be mixed with your regular moisturiser), so it never loses its glow-giving potency. £58, Clinique
No7 Youthful Vitamin C Fresh Radiance Essence From the ever-reliable No7, this twice-daily serum, which contains 5% vitamin C, has had impressive clinical trial results: after two weeks, 91% of women said their skin looked more radiant. £19.50, Boots
Sarah Chapman Stem Cell Collagen Activator Duo Focusing on firming and smoothing, this dual formula mixes powdered stem cells with a peptide-rich serum, the pair combining to boost collagen production. £149, Space NK
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Vitamin C 10 Day Glow Boosting Concentrate Drop the vitamin C powder into the an aloe vera-rich serum to create a super-strength booster, but be sure to use it within a week when the actives are at their peak. £17, The Body Shop
Radiance Boosting Powder Mix this powder with water in your palm to create a gently exfoliating cleanser that comes with added nutrient extras by way of rose petals and jasmine. £38, Diptyque
Skincare Rejuvenating Powder Serum Packed with vitamins and minerals, this powder, which can be mixed with any moisturiser, promotes younger-looking skin. £32, Bath Spa
Advanced Renewal Infusion Serum Delivering an intense burst of hydration via a patented hydrogenbased Energy Complex, this fourweek treatment should be used a few times a year when your skin needs it most. £210, Perricone MD
White Balance Click Oxy-R If pigmentation is your primary concern, you’ll love the brightening effects of oxyreservatrol, which is found in this small, but mighty solution. £59, Medik8
3 in 1 Maca Mask With vitamins derived from Baobab fruit, this clay-based mask soothes and revitalises at the same time, and can be mixed with water or natural yoghurt. £20, Odylique
Main image: PA Photo/thinkstockphotos. All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout
AUG/SEPT 2018 37
YUMMY MUMMY
CYO Pigment Paint in Rose Gold, £5.50, Boots
Laura Geller Easy Illuminating Stick in Ballerina, £21, House of Fraser
MULTIPURPOSE PRODUCTS FOR YOUR EASIEST EVER SUMMER MAKE-UP
MUA Luxe Ombre Shimmer Stick, £5
Keep it simple with one does-it-all shade, says Katie Wright.
Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge For Lips & Cheeks in Calypso Coral, £22
Artdeco Multi Stick in Cocoa Powder, £29.50, BeautyBay
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ummer make-up should be simple and effortless, and what could be easier than a product that doubles - or even triples up as lippy, blusher and more? A cream colour tapped on your lips, lids and the apples of your cheeks creates a chic monochrome make-up look in no time at all, so all you have to do is prep with foundation (or BB cream for a lighter, dewy sheen) and finish with mascara. Not only does it look good, the less is more approach means you won't have to lug your whole make-up bag with you when you travel (handy if you've got to survive on a cabin-baggage allowance). What shade should you choose? Keep it classic with a tan-enhancing soft brown or lighten things up with a shimmery champagne (in which case you'll want to highlight slightly higher on your cheekbones). If warm pinks and corals suit your complexion, vary the intensity of the hue from a light wash of colour on your eyes and cheeks, paired with a bright pop on your pout. We've rounded up the multi-purpose products that will help you get the look. Some are designed to be used all-over, some just happen to work that way. Some are from the new summer collections, while others are classics that we love. All are super-easy to use and will make you wonder why you bothered with separate shadows, powders and compacts before. Meet summer's hottest make-up multitaskers...
Max Factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher in Soft Candy, £6.99, Boots
W7 Cosmetics Full Metal Lacquer 3 in 1 Makeup Pen in Locked & Loaded, £6.95
YUMMY MUMMY
ROOFTOP YOGA LAUNCHES
AT THE BERKELEY IN COLLABORATION WITH SILOU, LONDON
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aking Yoga to new heights, The Berkeley has launched rooftop Yoga classes in collaboration with new luxury athleisure wear Silou London. Running until 1st October, The Berkeley offers intimate yoga classes and sun salutations for up to eight guests within the exclusivity of their rooftop garden overlooking the pool and Hyde Park beyond. In keeping with the hotel’s innovative spirit and focus on wellness with a twist, rooftop yoga at The Berkeley brings something new to Knightsbridge and Belgravia. Following the success of previous exercise extravaganzas with hula-hooping and synchronized swimming, rooftop yoga is the newest fitness sensation to continue the hotel spa’s reputation for creative initiatives with a view. Collaborating with Silou London’s co-founder and yoga instructor Phoebe Greenacre guides guests through a variety postures and stylish sequences. Within the privacy of The Berkeley’s rooftop secret garden, Phoebe will guide guests through a range of movements incorporating various yoga techniques from Vinyasa to Restorative creating a dynamic yet relaxing flow class which above all is a fun filled fitness experience. For hotel guests and Londoners alike, the sky is the limit with morning sun salutations and core strengthening poses for yogis of all ability, from yoga aficionados wanting to perfect their poses to those looking to try something a little different in London this summer. Available until 1st October
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every Friday from 8am to 9am and Saturday from 9am – 10am. Yoga classes are priced at £65 per person and include a post work-out smoothie. Alternatively, guests can opt for the luxury yoga offering at £85 per person including a post workout smoothie, homemade reenergising protein balls created by the hotel’s pastry chefs, a revitalising fruit platter and a half day pool pass to enjoy a post-yoga swim. Knut Wylde, The Berkeley GM says, ‘Rooftop yoga captures the spirit of what we are all about at The Berkeley, combining traditional wellness with something a little quirky and fun. We are delighted to be working closely with our neighbours Silou London and bringing a touch of our stylish neighbourhood to our rooftop.’ SILOU London founder and fashion model Tatiana Kovylina says, ‘We are so excited to be taking yoga to the rooftops of London and as neighbours to The Berkeley we couldn’t have found a better hotel spa to work with! The Berkeley mirrors our contemporary and innovative vision at Silou and we hope we can offer something a little different this summer to our fellow yogis…’ To book rooftop yoga classes at The Berkeley please call the team at The Berkeley Health Club and Spa on +44 (0) 20 7201 1699 or email directly at rooftopyoga@the-berkeley.co.uk. Alternatively please visit www.the-berkeley.co.uk
YUMMY MUMMY
Learn to love your body
You can work at your body until every inch of it is toned, tanned, firm and fat-free. But if you don’t truly believe that you look great, then it won’t count for much!
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nfortunately, women are up to 10 times more likely to have a negative body image than men. This is unsurprising when you consider how much emphasis is placed on the ‘thin is beautiful, and beautiful is good’ message in today’s media. Looks are everything in today’s society, and since few of us live up to (or, at least, believe that we live up to) society’s ideal, we are facing a national epidemic of bad body image.
KNOCK-ON EFFECTS Body dissatisfaction can have just as serious an impact on women’s emotional health as excess weight. There is undoubtedly a link between negative body image and eating disorders, and is also associated with a loss of sexual desire and depression, as well as feelings of low self-esteem and failure. But how can we get out of this vicious cycle?
THE BODY BEAUTIFUL We’ve probably all spied a woman walking down the street, turning every man’s head as she passes. We may not think that she is particularly attractive, but if she feels good about herself, she will ooze body confidence and sex appeal. How we see ourselves is not a reality but an illusion. Body image exists only in our mind’s eye, and it changes from moment to moment. That’s why you can feel ‘fatter’ ten minutes after eating a slice of cake, when in actual fact you couldn’t possibly look any different. Accepting this is an important first step in becoming more body confident.
the bits you may not like. Also, reflect not only on the parts of your body that you like, but on why you like those bits as well.
BE ALERT TO YOUR ‘BAD BODY’ TRIGGERS What makes you feel bad about your body? Try to identify your triggers so that you can rationalise why you feel bad when such situations arise. Many simple triggers, such as using a communal changing room at the gym, can also be easily avoided if you continue to feel bad in those situations.
GET ACTIVE! Research shows that people who regularly exercise generally have better body images than those who don’t. Experts think this is partly down to being more ‘in touch’ with their bodies through being active – but exercise also ensures that you experience your body from the ‘inside’ rather than the ‘outside’, and helps you to appreciate its myriad abilities. If you exercise more then you’re also likely to become less judgmental of others’ body shapes and sizes.
LOOK AFTER YOURSELF Spend some time looking after your body and making yourself feel good. You may not be able to slink into a pair of size eight jeans, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fabulous hair or killer nails! Whether it’s just rubbing in a luxurious body lotion or a soothing massage at the salon, taking care of your body will tell your subconscious mind that you care about your body and respect it.
BE POSITIVE!
OPEN YOUR EYES
Become more familiar with your body – for example by looking at your body in the mirror after you’ve had a shower – and focus on aspects of yourself that you like. Acknowledging something you like about your body will shift the emphasis away from
When you feel negative about your body, you tend to only spot those around you who you perceive as being ‘better’ than you. So, open your eyes and really see everyone – and then you’ll realise just how many shapes and sizes there are!
A touch of luxury for every yummy mummy A
dd a touch of luxury to your beauty routine, with multi-award winning Baie Botanique’s REGENERATE – Rose Renew product range. The natural solution to a firmer, smoother, replenished and overall refreshed appearance. “A beautiful woman is one who glows with health and vitality” to quote the words of Sophie Oliver, founder of Baie Botanique. Sophie, being in the beauty industry for over twenty years herself, and with a passion for beauty and health, wanted to create botanical skin care products made with pure, natural and organic ingredients that nourish the skin from the inside and out. Every woman deserves
“A beautiful woman is one who glows with health and vitality”
to be treated and have a pampering experience with her beauty regime, which is exactly what Baie Botanique’s products offer. Most of the ingredients used in the skincare industry are chemically based. Even though they might promise to work miracles, they often have a much larger negative impact on our bodies, than we realise. Natural cosmetics are the solution to a healthy beauty routine. Baie Botanique’s REGENERATE - Rose Renew range is based on a unique combination of rose and rosehip enhanced with other carefully chosen botanicals and plant actives and combined in such a way that allows nature to work its magic. With many more products in the pipeline, Baie Botanique believes in offering high quality natural products with ingredients chosen based on their specific, skin enhancing properties.
For more information go to baiebotanique.com and don’t forget to sign up to the monthly newsletter to keep up to date with new launches, offers and much more.
YUMMY MUMMY
Taking a holistic approach to breast cancer care If you or a loved one is dealing with breast cancer, not only do you want the best treatment, you also want the best support system around you and your family. Bupa Cromwell Hospital offers complementary therapies alongside traditional treatments for cancer and other conditions. These can help to tackle both the symptoms of disease and the side effects of treatment, as well as aiding relaxation by reducing tension and anxiety.
“Whether you have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, are worried about symptoms, or are recovering after treatment, remember that support is available at every step of the way”
THE DETAILS www.bupacromwellhospital.com/ breast Bupa Cromwell Hospital, 164-178 Cromwell Road, London SW5 0TU
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Complementary therapies and support services available to women with breast cancer: Physiotherapy and occupational therapy Specialist cancer physiotherapists aim to improve quality of life through rehabilitation programmes that are tailored to individual needs throughout treatment and recovery. Occupational therapists can assess your home environment to ensure a smooth transition when you leave hospital. They can also assist in organising care in the community should this be required. Prosthesis and bra fitting service Finding the right bra after breast cancer surgery can be tricky, so it is reassuring to have someone to advise on the correct fitting and also on partial prostheses (to even out breast shapes post-
breast conserving surgery), or for full prostheses (following mastectomy). Macmillan counselling service Cancer brings about many changes in a person’s life emotional as well as physical. Counselling provides an important means of support for you and your family. Massage service As part of your treatment plan, massage sessions can be helpful for those undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy to aid relaxation, alleviate tension and stress, and improve body comfort. Whether you have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, are worried about symptoms, or are recovering after treatment, remember that support is available at every step of the way. Bupa Cromwell Hospital’s support services are offered to all cancer patients, ensuring that they get the most effective treatment within a supportive environment.
Summer fun on the farm
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njoy a great day out at Bocketts Farm this summer with a full programme of fun activities! The ‘Magic of Summer’ trail will lead children on an adventure around the farm finding dragons, real life unicorns, fairies, mermaids and more. Daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, gold panning, animal handling, goat milking and the famous pig racing, which takes place twice daily. In addition, the Small Animal Village and Big Animal Barn are open where you can meet all of the friendly farm animals including a miniature Shetland pony foal, baby goat kids and litter of piglets. Plus, don’t miss the brilliant Water Wars Splash Zone, which involves launching water filled balloons at your opponent’s station – great fun for all ages! With 2 large indoor play barns, trampolines, young driver’s area, sandpits, pedal go-karts, treehouse towers and 2 giant jumping pillows, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused. Open daily 10am – 5.30pm. Visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk for more information.
PREGNANCY
BIRTH & BABIES
– Keeping you and baby happy and healthy throughout pregnancy and birth – i mage : W H Y D O E S M Y B A B Y C R Y A F T E R F E E DIN G ?
YUMMY MUMMY
ASK THE EXPERT: EATING & DRINKING DURING PREGNANCY
Preventing BIRTH DEFECTS Folic Acid can help – here’s how to get more in your diet. Words: prudence wade, press association to conceive or are already pregnant.
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enior figures in the Scottish and Welsh governments want there to be a compulsory fortification in flour. Health and Social Care Secretary Jeremy Hunt is being urged to make it compulsory for flour to contain folic acid, as research shows the vitamin can help prevent birth defects. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate (a type of B vitamin). Natural folate is found in foods, whereas folic acid is used as a fortification. So why could getting more folic acid into your diet be beneficial, and how can you do it? What are the benefits of folic acid? Food Standards Scotland has already said there is clear evidence that fortification flour could help prevent birth defects such as spina bifida, as well as neural tube defects in unborn babies. The British Pregnancy Advisory Service has backed this call for flour to have folic acid added to it, saying it could reduce the number of muchwanted pregnancies that are terminated due to neural tube defects. Pregnant women aren’t the only people who stand to benefit from getting more folic acid in their diets - research also shows that it can protect against bowel cancer and heart disease. Are women getting enough folic acid in their diets? In short: No. 81% of women in Scotland of childbearing age and 79% of such females in Wales are not getting the recommended amount of folic acid - higher than the 75% recorded for women across the UK. The daily recommended allowance of folate from the British Dietetic Association is 200 micrograms - and significantly more for women who are hoping
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“81% of women in Scotland of childbearing age and 79% of such females in Wales are not getting the recommended amount of folic acid higher than the 75% recorded for women across the UK”
How can you get more folic acid in your diet? The Department of Health has said it’s reviewing the research and will respond to the calls to make fortification mandatory in due course. So for now, it’s unknown whether it will be made compulsory for flour to contain folic acid, but there are still ways that you can increase your intake of the micronutrient. Breakfast is an easy meal in which to up your folic acid intake. Keep an eye out for breakfast cereals like Kellogg’s Corn Flakes - which are fortified with folic acid - and accompany it with orange juice (where the B vitamin naturally occurs). If cereal isn’t your thing, have a slice of wholemeal bread (which is fortified) and slather on some Marmite. There are also many ways to incorporate more folate-rich foods into other meals. Dark, leafy greens are excellent sources of folic acid - think spinach, kale, broccoli and cabbage, which you can add to salads or as sides to your main meal. To put this into perspective, half a cup of cooked spinach contains 131 micrograms of folate. You should be careful not to overcook vegetables, because this destroys the folates. Instead, steam or eat them raw to get the most out of the B vitamins. Beans, peas and lentils are also great sources - a small bowl of lentils will contribute towards most of your daily folate needs. For snacks, look to citrus fruits or nuts (particularly sunflower seeds, peanuts and almonds). If you still struggle to get enough in your diet, you should consider a supplement.
Can too much caffeine harm my unborn baby? WORDS: Lisa Salmon, Press Association
IS FISH FINE? A researcher who’s studied the effects of eating fish in pregnancy offers some reassurance. Lisa Salmon reports.
I
’ve just found out I’m pregnant, so is it best to avoid fish like tuna because of its high mercury levels? I’ve heard mercury can cause autism in children. Dr Caroline Taylor, a Wellcome Trust research fellow at the Centre for Child and Adolescent Health at University of Bristol, says: “We’ve been researching the effects of women eating fish in pregnancy, on the development of her baby before birth and into childhood. We measured mercury in the woman’s blood during pregnancy and asked questions about how much fish she ate. “The baby was followed up for several years, so we were able to measure many aspects of growth and development - including birth weight and prematurity, IQ, preschool development and behaviour. “The studies have shown that eating fish in pregnancy doesn’t increase the chances of poor development in the child, despite an increase in the mother’s blood mercury level. Indeed, for some measurements, eating fish had a positively beneficial effect on the baby. “Other studies in countries where women eat a lot more fish than in the UK have had similar findings. We think this is because fish is a rich source of other nutrients, such as iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and selenium, and these outweigh any ‘bad’ effects of mercury. “Our most recent study has focused on diagnosed autism and autistic traits in the child. Again, we found that eating fish in pregnancy didn’t make it more likely that the child would be diagnosed with autism, or have autistic traits. Indeed, for one of the traits, social cognition, the score was worse if the mother didn’t eat fish in pregnancy. “National guidance published by NHS Choices advises women to eat at least two portions of fish a week, one of which should be oily. For tuna, current advice is to eat no more than four medium-sized cans of tuna, or two fresh tuna steaks per week, so there’s certainly no need to avoid tuna altogether (canned tuna counts as ‘non-oily’). “Our research strongly endorses the advice to eat at least two portions of fish per week - this could be positively beneficial for your baby.”
I’m pregnant, but if I drink too much coffee could it harm my baby? If so, how much is too much? Midwife Sophie King, from the pregnancy and baby charity Tommy’s, says: “We all know caffeine is found in coffee and tea, but many of us don’t realise it’s hidden in lots of other things, such as chocolate and energy drinks. A mug of tea has around 75mg and a bar of plain chocolate has around 25mg. “Too much caffeine can be dangerous to a pregnant mum and her unborn baby, and babies of pregnant women who consume over 200mg of caffeine per day are at an increased risk of fetal growth restriction, which could result in low birth weight, or even miscarriage. “At Tommy’s, we talk to mums all the time about caffeine consumption, and now have a Caffeine Calculator on our website which can help women keep track of how much they’re consuming within a safe limit. “The Food Safety Authority recommends pregnant women keep their caffeine intake to under 200mg a day - but evidence from Tommy’s shows women don’t know what 200mg of caffeine represents and are over-consuming. However, a poll of 4,100 pregnant women conducted by Tommy’s showed that 61% would reduce their caffeine consumption habits after being made aware of how much caffeine there is in daily items. “Caffeine consumption can add up so quickly - two cups of coffee and a bar of chocolate would have enough caffeine to be over the recommended limit while pregnant. We advise pregnant women to try switching to decaffeinated coffee, herbal teas, fruit juice and water. Don’t worry if you have in the past gone over the 200mg limit, but using a caffeine calculator now can help you be more aware of your consumption and to cut down if you need to.”
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YUMMY MUMMY
‘Why do babygrows have all these poppers?’ M y lovely hubby would ask me this all the time when we had our first baby boy. This got me thinking about the many times I was struggling to match poppers in the dark whilst trying to dress our newborn. I now have two very wriggly little boys who won’t keep still for a second, it’s like wrestling a lion getting them dressed after bath time. So with two busy little guys to deal with I need ZIPPYUP’s more than ever to make nappy and outfit changes quicker and easier. Just over a year ago I got to work on making ZIPPYUP a brand for all those parents like us, slightly tired, run ragged and doing the best we can...we’ll take any help that is offered...if it makes our life easier. Before I promoted myself to the position of Mummy, I learnt my trade working for a company that designed and made many of the clothes you’re probably wearing right now. So I have taken those many years of experience and knowledge and put them to good use by designing and making a babygrow that works well for both the wearer and the dresser. ZIPPYUP babygrows aren’t just well designed, they’re amazing value and made from good quality soft fabric, that’s because I personally source and work with the factories that are making ZIPPYUP designs to get the best possible prices and materials. The classic ZIPPYUP original babygrow is made from 100% super soft cotton fabric. The zips are concealed so they do not have contact with your baby’s skin and the tab at the neck ensures the zip puller doesn’t catch on any little chins. The long sleeves have turn back cuffs so you
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don’t need separate (often lost or odd) mittens and they are long enough for your baby to have lots of hand room. Colour combinations include unisex colours such as aqua with pale grey and traditional white with pale grey. For baby girls we have designed a pink and white stripe. New colour combinations of the classic one-piece ZIPPYUP babygrow are in the pipeline as well as new designs, I’ve taken inspiration from baseball style tees by pairing up interesting colours which look extra cute as babygrows, I look forward to sharing these with you very soon. www.zippyup.com
ACCESSORISING YOUNG GIRLS BEAUTIFULLY EVERYDAY SINCE 2011 Pandorella specialises in an exclusive range of boutique hair bows, bobbles, headbands and accessories that are perfect for school, dance class and special occasions. Our range is ideal for all ages from newborn and toddlers right up to junior prom age. Our Back to School Collection has everything you need to keep your daughters hair neat and tidy for school. Our range includes Hair Bows, Bobbles, Alice Bands, Scrunchies, Bun Wraps and essentials like Elastics and Sleepies in all the popular school colours.
We do love to hear from you and can be contacted via our Website www.pandorella.co.uk Facebook www.facebook.com/pandorellauk Instagram www.instagram.com/pandorella_uk Twitter www.twitter.com/pandorellauk
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Nursery Interior Design Tips WORDS: Grace Tindall, founder of Scandibørn
Keep your base neutral The first rule of Scandi styling, keep it simple. Use white or light wood and a colour palette of muted pastels or monochromes as the base. Using these neutral tones means you can add more colourful or graphic accessories in the form of cushions, wall stickers, storage, rugs, mobiles and artwork – items that can easily be changed when the child grows up. Using simple fabrics for a nursery means you can customise the look as often you like.
Think about how you want it to feel This gives you a great starting point for designing your nursery – do you want it to feel bright, fun, magical, calm or cosy. You can then start to choose your colours, textures and décor items that fit with that theme.
Storage should be plentiful but pretty Toys, bedding, baby equipment, books and numerous knick knacks which come part and parcel of every nursery need a home which isn’t on the floor. We love woven or fabric baskets like those from Olliella, Liewood and Fabelab available at Scandibørn. The Play and Go Lego bags are also perfect for tidying away those small toys in a flash.
A good chair You’ll spend a lot of time in it so make sure it’s comfortable. We opted for an Ikea Rocking chair and then accessorised it with a sheepskin throw and an OYOY lion cushion.
Strategically placed lighting A dimmer switch and a couple of lamps around the room mean you can always control the level of lighting according to the need and during the bedtime routine. If baby wakes during the night, little night lights which are not too bright can easily help you find your way round – we love the little cloud lights perfect for a bedside table and the Giraffe and Elephant from Officina.
Furniture to last Consider furniture which won’t date and grows with your child. Invest in a furniture set that will last for years, look for features like conversions from cot beds to junior beds; Junior beds that become a full adult singles and changing tables that can be converted into a regular chest of drawers.
Add personal touches to make your nursery unique We love‘The Birth Poster’ who make illustrations to scale of your baby at birth, Lala Loves Décor for a personalised name sign or Ingrid Petrie for a family penguin print.
Make shelving a feature A set of shelves in the nursery is not only practical but can easily be transformed into a focal point with a few carefully chosen items. Add photos, books and a few wooden décor items (we’ve curated our favourites from pinch toys, OYOY and Bloomingville). Rose in April, String Shelves or leather strap shelves, are all timeless in design.
Fit for purpose flooring I’d always recommend a hardwood or laminate floor in a nursery, inevitable spillages are much easier and less stressful to handle, especially in the middle of the night! However a rug is a must, it makes it feel more cosy and can also provide a place to play, our World and Adventure rugs fit the bill for most nurseries, if you want something plain then we love the neutral tones of our new Naco diamond rugs.
Work with the space you have Sounds simple but it’s so tempting to get carried away with filling the nursery with ‘stuff ’. If you have a small nursery use light colours and try to limit the amount floor space taken up. Add three tiered shelving (like those from Rose in April), wall hooks which you can hang an outfit from or a storage bag. www.scandiborn.co.uk 52 AUG/SEPT 2018
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HOW TO KEEP A PREGNANCY JOURNAL ACCORDING TO INSTAGRAM STAR MUM CLEMMIE HOOPER The midwife and mum of four girls, who is well-known for her mother_of_daughters posts, explains how to hold on to your pregnancy memories forever. on paper. It can be really cathartic, and is a unique pregnancy diary.”
Wanting to give it a try? Here are some top tips for keeping a pregnancy journal.
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s you stare at that positive pregnancy test result or feel your baby’s first kick you might think you’ll never forget your feelings at that moment. But in the melee of pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood, those seemingly unforgettable memories often do slip your mind. Unless, that is, you kept a pregnancy journal to privately record your thoughts. Midwife and mother-of-four Clemmie Hooper, who has just under half a million Instagram followers for her mother_of_daughters posts, kept a pregnancy journal during two of her pregnancies, and says: “In a world where everything is captured online, I think journaling is a wonderful way of encouraging a bit of self-reflection. “I wrote in baby journals with my first two, which I treasure and they love reading and seeing all the ‘firsts’. “With my twins, I was blogging so I documented it there. I’m glad I did though, as whenever I read it back I think, ‘God, I can’t remember feeling like that’. “I’ve forgotten so much! Mainly how tired I felt - the broken sleep is so hard. But now I can’t really remember how I actually felt during that time.” Hooper’s How to Grow a Baby Journal has just been published and - as well as including plenty of space for pregnant women to write about their own thoughts, feelings and experiences during their pregnancy, birth and the early months of their baby’s life - the book is packed with her tips and advice to help support women, with advice for each week of the pregnancy and first month after the birth. “It’s a lovely way to sit and document your feelings during such a major moment in any woman’s life,” says Hooper. “Pregnancy throws up a huge amount of emotions (blame those hormones), and keeping a journal is a therapeutic way of getting it all down 54 AUG/SEPT 2018
What’s the best way to start writing a journal? You might like to set aside a specific time each day to write and, instead of planning what you’re going to write, sit down with the journal and a pen and see what comes into your head - just let it flow. If you have trouble getting started, write about your fears, and any questions or doubts you may have. You might even want to write about why you’ve chosen to put your thoughts on paper. What should you write about? “Anything really,” says Hooper, “from what it felt like when your baby kicked, to how your body changes and what food cravings you had. It’s what’s personal to you - in fact, no-one else has to ever read it, so be as honest as possible.” You might choose to write about your body and how it looks, and even take some photos to put in the journal of pregnant you, your bump, and eventually your new arrival. You could outline any fears you may have about being a mum, and how you want to manage your work-life balance once you have a child. Other ideas for pregnancy journaling include writing about not repeating your own parents’ mistakes, and the dreams you have for your baby. And make sure you write plenty about your excitement and happiness too - and how your partner feels.
Here are 20 questions to answer in a pregnancy journal Hooper suggests mothers-to-be and new mums should ask themselves these questions as they write their journal: 1. Where were you when you found out you were pregnant? 2. What made you think you were pregnant? 3. Who did you tell first? 4. Are there any foods or drinks you’ve gone off ? Any interesting cravings? 5. Any inappropriate stories of battling through those early weeks? 6. Any funny stories about keeping it a secret? 7. What was your initial feeling when you saw the baby on the scan screen? 8. What tests (if any) did you have? 9. What are the moments you’ve loved so far about being pregnant? 10. Are there any moments you’ve not enjoyed so much? 11. Is there anything that’s surprised you? 12. How do you feel about your growing bump/changing shape? 13. How has your sleep changed through the pregnancy? 14. What dreams are you having? 15. When is your baby most active? 16. When and how did you go into labour? 17. How does your postpartum body look and feel? 18. What does breastfeeding feel like, and have you had any problems with it? 19. What do you need most? Sleep? Chocolate biscuits? 20. What’s your favourite thing about your baby?
A brand inspired by a love for beautiful soft luxury yarns like cashmere, angora and silk, motivated by a passion for creating unique products. www.bo-peephandmade.co.uk
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Working parents: 8 rights you might not know you’re entitled to The Working Families charity outlines the most important rights for parents who work. By Lisa Salmon, Press Association
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eing a working parent can be tough, and there are plenty of legal rights designed to make it a little easier. But many working parents don’t know what their rights are. New research has found 41% of parents are unaware of their legal right to take unpaid parental leave to care for their children, and 75% admit to never having taken advantage of this entitlement. The research by employment law specialists Crossland suggests 27% of parents will spend up to £800 on holiday club fees over the school summer holidays, when they could have simply taken unpaid leave. Take-up of the entitlement is just 25%. Employment solicitor Liz Gardiner, advice service development leader at Working Families, says: “Parents contact us every week because they’re uncertain about what rights they have. Parental leave, flexible working and emergency leave can all be useful tools for parents trying to balance work and family life.”
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Working Families outlines the main parental rights as: 1. Maternity leave
All women who are employees are entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave. When you go back to work after the first six months of maternity leave, you have the right to return to your old job on your old terms and conditions. If you take more than six months of maternity leave, you can return to your old job unless it’s “not reasonably practicable”, in which case your employer must offer you a suitable alternative job on similar terms and conditions.
2. Maternity pay To get Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) you need to have worked for your employer since before you became pregnant, and still be employed by them 15 weeks before the baby’s due. For the first six weeks, your Maternity pay is 90% of your average earnings. For the next 33 weeks, it’s 90% of your average earnings or £140.98 per week, whichever’s lower.
3. Maternity allowance If you can’t get SMP, you may be entitled to
Maternity Allowance (MA) if you’re employed or self-employed, based on your work record in the 66 weeks before the baby’s due. If you’re self-employed, you must have paid Class 2 National Insurance or been eligible to do so.
4. Paternity leave Only fathers/partners who are employees are eligible for paternity leave. You’ll also need to have worked continuously for your employer for 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before the baby’s due, and still be employed by the employer on the day the child’s born. You can choose when to take your leave, in a period between the birth and 56 days after, for one or two consecutive weeks. Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) is paid at £140.98 per week (or 90% of average earnings, whichever’s lower).
5. Shared parental leave Only parents who are employees can take SPL, and the other parent must also have some recent work history (which could be self-employed or employed). SPL can be taken at any time during the first year of the baby’s life, but there are two weeks of compulsory maternity leave which the mother must take. There are a maximum of 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay that may be shared. SPL is created by the mother curtailing her maternity leave and/or pay, so the father/partner can take the balance. Shared Parental Pay (ShPP) is the flat rate of £140.98 (or 90% of average earnings, whichever is lower) for a maximum of 37 weeks. Only 6% of working parents take shared parental leave.
6. Parental leave This is unpaid time off work to care for your children. You are entitled to take unpaid parental leave if you’ve worked for at least a year for your employer, you have a child under 18 and you give your employer 21 days’ notice. You’re entitled to 18 weeks of parental leave per parent, per child but you may not be able to take this all in one go. Check whether your employer has a workplace agreement about parental leave - if not, you can usually only take four weeks per child in any one year. Most parents will have to take unpaid parental leave a week at a time.
7. Time off for dependants This is the right to emergency unpaid leave if your child is sick or childcare arrangements fall through unexpectedly. It can also be used to care for others who may depend on you. You have the right to take reasonable unpaid time off, usually of no more than one or two days, to give you time to put other arrangements in place. You must let your employer know what’s happening and return to work as soon as possible. Your employer should not penalise you for taking reasonable time off in a genuine emergency.
8. Right to request flexible working If you’ve been an employee for 26 weeks, you have the right to ask to work flexibly, and your employer has a duty to consider your request seriously. You can ask to change the hours or days you work, or to work from home. Your employer should only turn you down for a statutory business reason, and should reach a decision within three months of your request. For more information, call the Working Families helpline on 0300 012 0312. AUG/SEPT 2018 57
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How to make childbirth hurt less ACCORDING TO WOMEN WHO’VE BEEN THROUGH IT We asked real mums to reveal the pain-relief methods that really work. Claire Spreadbury gets the lowdown.
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o one expects having a baby to be easy. And yet there are women who go through labour virtually unscathed, while others are scarred for life (literally), having undergone a very long and excruciatingly painful experience. As a mum of two, I couldn’t have had two more different birth experiences. My firstborn, Rosie, arrived after more than 24 hours of full-on labour. It was exhausting, painful and felt - to me - a bit of a failure. Of course it wasn’t, I had a healthy baby at the end of it, but after a failed attempt at both a ventouse and forceps delivery, the surgeon performed an episiotomy and had to cut my baby out. Second time around, you could argue that your body knows what it’s doing. But petrified of a repeat performance, I did natal hypnotherapy in an attempt to stay calm (adrenaline during labour can really be your enemy). So when I gave birth to my second daughter, Poppy, I felt so in control of my pain, I didn’t get to the hospital quite as early as I should have. After falling to all-fours in the car park, I just about made it into A&E and with one push, she was born - no stitches required (smug face). So, just what is it that makes the difference between a straightforward and a complicated birth? “Far from bringing us pathological pain, labour and birth washes us with intense waves of physiological pain (think of the difference between the pathological pain of breaking a limb, and the physiological pain of running long and hard),” says Rachel Fitz-Desorgher, a midwife with 30 years
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experience and author of Your Baby Skin To Skin: Learn To Trust your Baby’s Instincts In The First Year (£12.99, White Ladder Press). “In the quiet and gentle atmosphere of a midwife-led unit, or at a home birth, free to move, eat, rest and bathe, our bodies will produce natural oxytocin and endorphins, which can ease labour along and keep us in a state of focus. Anything which pushes up our anxiety level, such as loud noises, unfamiliar equipment and a room full of new faces, will quickly raise our adrenaline levels, causing a fight and flight reaction. This can cause
“My top tips include drinking raspberry leaf tea”
labour to be slower and more complicated.” Fitz-Desorgher recommends a lower-tech venue for giving birth, but what about other mums? Here, six parents, who’ve all given birth naturally - with or without drugs - reveal their top tips for minimising pain during labour.
Sign up for natal hypnotherapy There are lots of different types of natal hypnotherapy - also called hypnobirthing. Essentially, it teaches self-hypnosis techniques for controlling pain in labour, and the benefits can include shorter labours and less intervention. “Natal hypnotherapy is all about staying calm and focused.,” says Claire Richardson from Wimbledon, who saw practitioner Sandra Bush when she was pregnant with her second child. “Both myself and my husband were hypnotised in our sessions (he couldn’t actually believe it worked...) and during labour, I focused on a serene scene, while he counted ‘Three, two, one... relax’ and I concentrated on breathing. Other people I know have done hypnobirthing and believed they would breathe their baby out while focusing on breath and mantras. Each contraction is a step closer to meeting your baby,” says Catherine Fletcher from Wigan, remembering her sessions. “It really helped me to understand the pain and the process.”
Opt for a water birth “My top tips include drinking raspberry leaf tea (which is said to help your labour progress at a steady rate) and perineal massage to ease the stretch of the skin, and then having your baby in water,” says mum-of-two Lucy Fearn, from Surrey. “I think the water made a massive difference,” agrees Vicky Etchells from Cheshire. “I had to get out to be examined at one point and the pain was excruciating - and exhausting, because you’re trying to support your own body weight. I couldn’t get comfortable in a position that wasn’t agony. In the water, you can move about and find an open and forward position, so you can give the baby more room.”
good for your body, when you’re in pain during labour, it means you’ll soon get to meet your baby. And remember, the contraction pain will pass,” adds Etchells. “I kept saying that to myself, and by the time you’ve said it 10 times, it has! Concentrate on your partner and get them to tell you the things you really need to know. Then you can block everything else out and focus on you. The only thing you need to think about is breathing through the contractions and the midwife will sort everything else.The midwife can make a huge difference as well,” says mum-of-two Natasha Neil. “They can play a real support role. My sister had a doula and she really helped, giving massage in the right place and at the right time, and talking her through the pain.”
Try acupuncture or acupressure Acupuncturist Sally Brooks, who runs The Natural Health Space, admits she’s slightly biased, but says that treatment can really help with labour. “Acupuncture before and/or during labour can really help with pain and anxiety,” she says. “I needled myself (which isn’t the best idea) when my contractions stopped, and it started them back up again. Simple acupressure is really useful and can easily be shown to and used by birthing partners.”
“Both myself and my husband were hypnotised in our sessions (he couldn’t actually believe it worked...) and during labour, I focused on a serene scene”
Use your gas and air “Gas and air is amazing!” Etchells continues. “Breathe in as much as you can. Take a deep breath as soon as a contraction starts and stay calm.” Some people are less keen on the dizzying feeling gas and air can give, but if you work with it, the pain relief can genuinely be phenomenal, agrees Richardson. “Right up until the most painful point - when I’d used up every ounce of energy I had, and asked for an epidural because my labour was lasting so long, I thought gas and air was great. If I’d had a shorter birth, it would have been all I needed.”
Think of it as positive pain “I know it sounds strange, but if you think of it as positive pain, it helps you get through,” advises Fletcher. “Like when your muscles ache from exercise, it reminds you that you’ve done something AUG/SEPT 2018 59
YUMMY MUMMY
Why does my baby cry after feeding?
A baby’s constant crying after a feed could be caused by colic or an allergy, says Dr Sarah Jarvis. WORDS: Lisa Salmon, Press Association
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P Dr Sarah Jarvis says: “Coping with a crying baby, particularly one that seems inconsolable, can be emotionally and physically draining. But it’s important to remember it’s not your fault. “All babies cry and most of the time it’s harmless and part of their natural instinct. “Feeding problems such as colic can cause babies to cry more than normal, particularly around feeding. Feeding issues affect up to half of all infants, and colic affects up to one in five babies - so it’s probably more common than you might think. “As well as the intense crying, other symptoms of colic can be clenched fists, an arched back, and a red or flushed face in an otherwise completely healthy baby. “Reflux and regurgitation, when babies bring up their feed during or shortly after feeding, and
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constipation, are also common baby feeding problems which cause excessive crying, general irritability and discomfort. “Cows’ milk allergy, albeit less common (affecting around 2 to 7.5% of babies under one year of age), can cause a very wide range of symptoms such as rashes, failing to gain weight, reluctance to feed, diarrhoea and vomiting.” “Don’t worry, if it’s colic or another feeding problem there are things you can do to help, such as feeding techniques and dietary changes. If you suspect a feeding problem such as reflux or cows’ milk allergy, you should speak to your GP, pharmacist or health visitor.” An online symptom checker is available at C&G BabyClub (www.cgbabyclub.co.uk/babysymptom-checker)
“If it’s colic or another feeding problem there are things you can do to help”
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Summer fitness during pregnancy
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tudies have shown that women who keep fit during pregnancy often enjoy easier, shorter and less complicated labours and also, a faster return to fitness once their baby is born. Here are a few tips to keep you in tip top condition during pregnancy - whether at home, as part of a mums-to-be group or on your summer holiday! Health and fitness benefits include: • Better circulation • Less unnecessary weight gain • Reduced swelling • Less abdominal discomfort Before you begin, there are some sensible precautions to consider.
Pregnancy symptoms As your pregnancy progresses, your body undergoes many changes, not just visual ones… These include: • Weight gain • Changing blood pressure • Changing resting heart rate • Increased flexibility as the hormone relaxin is released • Variable levels of fatigue You may also experience some or all of the following conditions: 62 AUG/SEPT 2018
• Morning sickness (often disappearing after 12 weeks) • Increased sweating • Dizziness • Nausea • Hormonal mood changes Frequently, by the end of the fourth month most or all of the above symptoms subside and renewed energy levels and vitality are felt. If you have found it difficult to maintain your fitness because of the changes that your body is undergoing, by 16 weeks you often feel raring to go. Providing that you have no medical reasons why you shouldn’t exercise during pregnancy, you can follow a sensible training routine for as long as you wish.
Getting started in pregnancy exercise The key point to remember when exercising through your pregnancy is to keep all your training at a comfortable level. Particularly if you have been a regular exerciser before becoming pregnant, avoid pushing too hard. The focus should be on general fitness maintenance and well-being, rather than competition and exercising to exhaustion.
Get fit and feel good during pregnancy: Always keep well hydrated. You may find that you sweat more especially in the summer, so drinking more water is important. Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Loose clothing will help keep you cool, particularly as your shape changes. Allow longer recoveries - your levels of fatigue will alter through your pregnancy so take extra rest when you feel you need to. Always complete a thorough warm up and cool down in your session - Pregnancy affects your circulatory system so extend both your warm up and cool down to 15 minutes so that your body gradually adapts. Protect your back at all times - The back increasingly comes under load as your baby grows, so always consider your body position, particularly if carrying out resistance training. Avoid exercising on your back after 20 weeks - After 20 weeks, the weight of the womb can cause compression of the inferior vena cava, which in turn can cause dizziness, numbness at the extremities and a lack of oxygen to the foetus. Avoid over-stretching - Joints gradually become looser as your pregnancy develops, so avoid excessive flexibility exercises that could over-stretch muscles and tendons. Consider your energy requirements - Combining exercise with pregnancy increases your calorie requirements so pay particular attention to your pre and post exercise nutrition needs. Choose low impact rather than high impact aerobic activities - To avoid excessive pounding and also damage to slacker joints, try activities such
“Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Loose clothing will help keep you cool, particularly as your shape changes.”
as swimming and only jog if you jogged prior to pregnancy. Ensure your footwear is supportive and has suitable cushioning - Good ankle and foot support is important, particularly in later pregnancy as joints become more lax. Focus on correct posture and technique at all times - It is important to put extra focus into your movements and posture because as your shape changes, your body is loaded in different ways. After any form of exercise you feel exhilarated, motivated and a real sense of satisfaction whether you are pregnant or not, but if you are just make sure you are careful and don’t push yourself too far.
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BACK TO SCHOOL – Whether starting a new school or a new term, we’ve got it covered –
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Guide To Etiquette For Children
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or once the despairing pundits, pollsters and commentators are in agreement: children’s manners are getting worse. Table manners are a thing of the past, respect for elders is out of the window, and so on. Yet many parents riposte that it is no longer a question of manners, it’s a question of natural behaviour. Their little darling may like to be louder than the town crier, may want to crawl round other people’s feet in a restaurant, may need to have their parent’s instant attention for their own important demands - but they’re just children, and who are we to say that these natural impulses should be cramped within our own narrow view of manners? Why not try and find a compromise between old-school stiffness and laissez-faire carelessness? Follow these basic precepts: • Teach your child empathy from an early age. Keep reiterating remarks like “how would you feel if someone said that to you?”, and you’ll get your child into the habit of thinking about the impact their behaviour has on others. • Emphasise the importance of sharing. This doesn’t come naturally, so you have to actually tell children to offer sweets around, give other kids a go on the swing etc. Again, repetition is valuable. • Remind them of their ps and qs. This effectively means endlessly reiterations of “say please”, “say thank you”…
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• Teach your children not to interrupt when you’re speaking. Again, repeated reminders work best. • Teach your child to listen carefully. This might entail them getting rewards for sitting still and listening attentively. Listening well is an incredibly important social skill, which will prove invaluable when it comes to making conversations. Table Manners Table manners are by no means natural. Eventually you will have to teach children to wield and knife and fork correctly, not slurp from a glass, and may even introduce them to the arcane mysteries of correct cutlery usage, tipping soup bowls way from you etc. Don’t get bogged down in these minutiae. Concentrate instead on the absolute essentials. And always bear in mind that if you get too uptight about manners, you will turn family mealtimes into an absolute purgatory that is dreaded by children and adults alike. Repeated lectures about nagging remarks about shortcomings do not make for a convivial atmosphere.
“Always bear in mind that if you get too uptight about manners, you will turn family mealtimes into an absolute purgatory”
Absolutely Essential Table Manners • Wait until everyone has started before you do; if you are specifically invited to start immediately, it is acceptable to do so. • Always eat with your mouth closed. • Always use cutlery (fingers are for bread, fruit and barbecues) • Never reach across the table and help yourself to food; always ask for food to be passed to you (a please won’t go amiss). • Eat as much as you can, then put your knife and fork together on the plate to indicate you have finished. • Ask permission to leave the table, or wait until there is a general move to do so Debrett’s Cygnets, classes teaching dining etiquette for children from the age of 7. For more information or to organise a group class please contact TimHenckens@debretts.co.uk; www.debretts.com
YUMMY MUMMY
Preparing Your Child For Their
Whether your child is a Royal Prince or Princess or not, their first day at school is a big milestone. Yes, your little baby is no more - you’ve now got a school child on your hands!
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tarting school means a lot of changes for both you and your child, and it is perfectly understandable to have concerns about your little one in the run-up to the big day! You’ve probably been working hard to reassure your child that school will be exciting and fun. But you may not feel quite so confident yourself. You will no doubt be a bag of nerves with a lot more butterflies than you had on your first day at school! It can be more nerve-wracking for older children when they go to ‘big school’ They are more aware and more clued-up You need to acknowledge your worries and concerns and act on each to ensure the weeks and days leading up their first day of school run as smoothly as possible. This is an exciting time and not one to be dreaded. So, with just weeks to go before hordes of newly-uniformed four-year-olds pass through classroom doors for the first time, what can parents do to prepare their children, and limit the potential for tears – theirs and yours – on
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the big day? • There is plenty you can do to help your child adjust to new groups of people - a group activity such as a music or dance class. Free storytime sessions at your local library provide a great opportunity for your child to meet others of a similar age. • Teach your child ‘life’ skills like getting dressed and undressed, using the toilet independently, washing their hands and putting things away – every little bit of independence helps. • Play ‘schools’. Take turns in being the teacher and the pupil. Practise saying ‘bye bye’ to Mummy and Daddy at the gate. Keep these games short and fun. Find some books in your local library that talk about starting school – ask your child questions about what they’d do in this situation or that – get them involved in the idea of being at school. • Involve them. Let them help choose ‘school stuff ’ like their backpack or pencil case. Label everything with their name – let them ‘help’ by suggesting where to write it or handing you the pens. • Discuss your own happy memories of school (provided you have some!). Perhaps mention games you played at break time or how much you liked your first teacher. • Get them into a routine that’s compatible with school hours. They might need an earlier bedtime and waking up time. Move towards the new routine over a few days rather than starting it suddenly the day before. • As you say goodbye on your child’s first day, it may be hard not to shed a tear. If you do have a cry, try not to let your child see. It may make them anxious that you are sad. • Even distressed children soon settle into
“Play ‘schools’. Take turns in being the teacher and the pupil. Practise saying ‘bye bye’ to Mummy and Daddy at the gate Keep these games short and fun. Find some books in your local library that talk about starting school – ask your child questions about what they’d do in this situation or that – get them involved in the idea of being at school”
Prince George’s first day at St Thomas’s Battersea
First Day At School school. If you are worried, ask your child’s teacher or teaching assistant about strategies they use to help children settle. • If you want to find out more about your child’s school world, get involved. Many schools encourage parents to help with reading, cookery or a school trip. • Put a special treat in their lunchbox – lots of kids love a little note from Mum! Be prepared for your house to feel empty and quiet during the school hours. Focus on the extra time you now have for yourself.…join a health club, meet up with friends for lunch or join a mother’s club – these will all help to keep you busy during the school day. You will be excited to see your child at the end of his school day, but don’t overwhelm your little one with questions. Although you’re desperate to know how it went, try to keep your questions simple. Ask who they sat next to at lunch, rather than a rundown of your child’s day. Don’t worry if your child says “I don’t know”, or I can’t remember”. There is a lot to take in on their first day. Be rest assured that your child’s school will be supporting and looking after your little one, creating a whole new world for them to discover.
“Be prepared for your house to feel empty and quiet during the school hours. Focus on the extra time you now have for yourself”
Prince George’s first day at Westacre Montessori School, Norfolk & Princess Charlotte’s at Willcocks Nursery School, Kensington
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YUMMY MUMMY
How early is early? Do parents need to plan their child’s education from the womb?
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his is the question facing all parents as they plan for their child’s education. Just as parents are trying to get through a decent night’s sleep and barely having moved on from the milestones of first smile and tummy time, many are faced with the inevitable onslaught of questions from family and friends including, ‘to which schools have you registered?’ The independent school market, particularly for London day schools, is incredibly competitive, with registrations from birth (and in the cases of some schools, acceptance of applications pre-birth) for those most oversubscribed. Despite the potential for anxiety that parents face about what to do and when, there are some basic principles to follow.
Do your research: In the UK system, due to the issue of the relatively limited supply of school places and the demand for them, planning and linking any research with your needs and priorities for your child is vital. Consider preferences for either single sex or co-educational settings? Faith schools or non-denominational? A small, intimate school with one form entry or a school that offers a more extensive intake with multiple forms for each year group? A school that is non-selective in its philosophy and intake, or a highly selective school? It’s important to balance your priorities and any pre-conceptions you have of a school with the structure, culture and community it offers: the school’s ethos, level of staffing, curricular and extra-curricular and the extent to which parents are involved in the life of the school. Most 70 AUG/SEPT 2018
importantly, visit the schools and trust your instincts for what will be best for your child. Consider your future family life: Consider how your family life may change in the coming years- are you likely to move or relocate if or when your family expands? What is reasonable in terms of the logistics of your commute to work, considering the proximity of your child’s school to home and the time taken to drop off and pick up your child each day? Don’t delay: If you have a first-choice school in mind, research the timeline for acceptance of applications and apply as early as possible, particularly if the school operates a ‘first come, first served’ registration list. It’s worth making your appreciation for the school known- include why the school is your first choice for your child in a covering letter to accompany the application. Take care to address not only what has drawn you to the school but also reasons why you believe your child would flourish there. While your child’s school needn’t be planned from the womb, knowing and understanding your child’s personality and needs, thinking ahead and thoroughly researching schools’ admissions processes, is key to successfully mapping out your little one’s schooling future. Gabrielle Villani is Head of Education Advisory at Salamanca Group and specialises in providing education consultancy for parents and businesses. www.salamanca-group.com
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What’s the best way to get involved with my child’s education?
Following these expert tips can boost your child’s learning and help their emotional wellbeing too. WORDS: Lisa Salmon
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’ve got two children at primary school. How would it benefit them if I got more involved with their education - and what’s the best way of doing it? Michelle Doyle Wildman, acting CEO of Parentkind, the parent-teacher charity that aims to champion all the ways parents can participate in education, says: “You are your children’s greatest role model, and when you’re engaged in learning, studies tell us children do better academically, emotionally and behaviourally. “At Parentkind, we’ve carried out lots of research among parents and teachers and found over eight out of 10 parents say they want to be more involved in their child’s education, while nearly all teachers (98%) say parental involvement has a positive
impact on their school and pupils. “Yet even though the evidence is stacked in your favour, many parents say they don’t have the time or opportunity to get involved, and in some instances mums and dads may feel they don’t have the skills to help. But the reality is there are so many different ways to participate and they don’t have to take lots of time. “Try getting involved by going to parents’ evenings or assemblies, school plays and sports day. Your child will enjoy seeing you take an interest in what they’re doing. “If you’ve got a little more time, consider volunteering to help out on school tripAs, reading with children in class or maybe getting involved in your school PTA or parent council. If time’s a bit tight, you can still get involved by joining the class Facebook page or signing up to the school newsletter and taking part in school surveys. “You can also get more involved in your child’s education by building it into home life. For example, supporting with homework and reading together regularly are good habits to get into. As well as this, you can help make learning fun - if you’re planning a family day out for example, why not link it to something the kids are learning about at school? All these things will help your children understand education is an important part of life. “Whichever way you get involved, remember that overall it’s important to speak positively about school and learning. By showing children it’s important, you’ll encourage them to try their best, knowing that they’re supported by you as well as their teachers.” For more information, visit Parentkind on Facebook.
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NO JUNK POPCORN FOR KIDS H PROPERCORN reveal new kids’ collection & colourful world of Cornivores
ungry kids can be impossible to please. Creating healthier, homemade treats in between school runs and sports clubs, is mission impossible for most. PROPERCORN is making “No Junk” snacking simpler for parents with the launch of a colourful new popcorn collection dedicated entirely to kids. Helping families meet Public Health England’s new guidelines for younger snackers, PROPERCORN’s Tomato Ketchup and Simply Sweet flavours contain less than 56 calories per pack. “No Junk”, lower salt and lower sugar and a great source of slow release energy: PROPERCORN for Kids is full of wholegrain popping power that’s perfect for lunchboxes and after school. “My love for popcorn started when I was a child, impatiently queuing up for my box of sweet popcorn at the cinema”, explained PROPERCORN co-founder, Cassandra Stavrou. “When seasoned properly, popcorn is a totally natural, wholegrain food and it has an inherent nostalgia and fun that makes it perfect for kids. We use a simple popping process- which every parent understands- and no nonsense labelling to help mums and dads make informed decisions when out shopping. We’re so excited to make popcorn an everyday, healthy snack for children, just as it is for adults.” Both PROPERCORN for Kids recipes are gluten-free, suitable for vegans and made using simple cupboard ingredients: Simply Sweet: Re-imagining the cinema classic
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with a simple, junk-free recipe. Each bag contains nothing but wholegrain corn, ½ teaspoon of unrefined, raw cane sugar and a sprinkling of rapeseed oil. Tomato Ketchup: As with every flavour in their award-winning collection, this recipe began in the PROPERCORN kitchen. Tomatoes, onion and spices come together to re-create a tangy, sweet tomato ketchup flavour.
GRAB YOUR POPTOPIA PASSPORT! The colourful popcorn-makers have sprinkled a little extra magic in every pack, taking snackers on a weird and wonderful journey to the world of Poptopia. In the shadow of Mount Pop live the Cornivores, each with their own unique personality and popping powers. Brought to life on collectible cards, available in every multipack, kids (and grownups!) can trade and play with friends and even create their own Poptopia monster. PROPERCORN For Kids Simply Sweet and Tomato Ketchup are available from Waitrose, Ocado, Asda and Tesco with RRP £1.89 for a 5x 12g multipack and 59p for a single snack pack. Their core collection of popcorn contains seven flavours, available in single serve and sharing formats: Lightly Sea Salted, Sun-Dried Tomato & Chilli, Sour Cream & Black Pepper, Sweet & Salty, Sweet Coconut & Vanilla, Peanut Butter & Almond and Perfectly Sweet. www.propercorn.com; @PROPERCORN
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Benefits of the independent school W
ith options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child. Here are some of the reasons why parents are choosing to give their children the unique experience of private school and why it’s worth the financial investment.
Enriched academic opportunities One of the accepted benefits of private schools is that they provide exceptional and challenging educational experiences through extracurricular activities, Advanced Placement courses, and the International Baccalaureate programme, just to name a few. The IB programme focuses on school work and on developing you as a whole person. Private school students constantly score top marks on standardized tests and college entrance exams, and many schools have a 100 per cent rate of students attending their university of choice.
Controlled class sizes A comprehensive study on class size made by educational researchers Bruce Biddler and David Berliner in 2002 showed that the smaller the class size, the better the average student performs on academic achievement tests. The gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child is exposed to them. 76 AUG/SEPT 2018
Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on their teaching style, almost all focus on the importance of small class sizes to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.
Dedicated teachers In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field. Within the tight-knit school community, students have close relationships with their teachers who commonly act as role models. In addition, small class sizes make staff members more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.
Parental involvement Private schools are built around open communication between parents and administration, and they make it a priority to involve parents in the community. From frequent parent-teacher meetings, social events such as parent breakfasts and family camping weekends, and the participation of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families become an integral part of the child’s education. This common ground also helps strengthen parentchild relationships.
“91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school”
A safe environment
Development for today’s and tomorrow’s world
Private schools have reputations for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds. The strong sense of community found in private schools also discourages dangerous behaviour. In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 per cent of parents surveyed with children in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe, which greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement. The discipline they learn also improves their rates for success in post-secondary education when they are in control of their class attendance and achievement.
Private schools go beyond offering the mandatory subjects required by provincial curriculum; they can offer students a wide range of specializations including arts programs, athletics, maths and science. Private schools are responsible for producing many leaders in politics, business and society, with a history of adapting quickly to changes in technology and culture. And today, they are also sought by parents of children with special needs such as behaviour problems or learning disabilities.
Ample resources At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond. Quality resources provide students with the opportunity to fully explore their interests and talents.
Extracurricular activities While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts or clubs. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found that students involved in the arts are more motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award. Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.
“At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond”
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YUMMY MUMMY
KidZania London the indoor city run by kids! K
idZania offers 4-14-year olds exciting real life activities, spanning across 75,000 square feet. Blending learning with reality and entertainment, each career at KidZania is developed to teach kids essential life skills including financial literacy, teamwork and independence.
What’s on at KidZania this summer? Starting on August 10th through to September 2nd, WWE fans can explore a fun-packed series of activities taking place across the city to celebrate SummerSlam this summer. Gearing up for SummerSlam in New York on August 19th, KidZania will encourage young explorers to design and create their own Superstar and pose in the ring at the WWE Academy. Across the rest of the city, full coverage of the SummerSlam activities will be making headlines at the Global Radio Studio and Metro Newspaper, whilst over in the theatre, WWE fans will have the opportunity to see what it takes to create a live show, experimenting with lighting, sound, costume and performance. Other activities include face painting, WWE themed games and arts and crafts.
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In addition to WWE SummerSlam, events taking place across the summer at KidZania include: • New activity alert with Nintendo! Inspiring future design engineers by exploring different ways to create and invent, and by taking part in the Nintendo Labo™ Workshop experience within the city, kids will take on a journey through the Make, Play and Discover pillars of Nintendo Labo. • For budding makers, thinkers and builders, join KidZania’s Year of Engineering Festival. From hands-on learning about Marine Engineering in the Sea Cadets activity (Monday 20th August – Friday 24th August) - to design, build and test challenges with the Engineering Development Trust (Monday 20th August – Friday 24th August and Monday 27th August – Friday 31st August 2018) – there’s something for everyone • Grown-ups can now join in the fun every Sunday at KidZania with Heart Feel Good Family Sundays. The brand-new initiative allows parents to join in with the different jobs around the city, allowing families to deliver post around the city, report on the news at Metro or even present their own TV show as a family For more information on all these upcoming events and to book your visit to KidZania, visit www.KidZania.co.uk.
“Gearing up for SummerSlam in New York on August 19th, KidZania will encourage young explorers to design and create their own Superstar and pose in the ring at the WWE Academy”
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W
Shohreh Blank
The UK is in the midst of a mathematics crisis - pupils are struggling to pass the GCSE and thousands are turning away from the subject even if they do make the grade.
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hen experienced finance quantitative analyst Shohreh Blank worried that her mental arithmetic ability was fading in a world dominated by calculators and computers, she discovered a gap in the education market. “I’m really concerned at the lack of ability and interest in maths. It seems like we have allowed it to become something that is tough to learn, and even harder to find enjoyment,” said Dr Blank, from Swiss Cottage. Shohreh has spent four years developing an app called cZeus Maths Challenger. The result is a fun, new app that stimulates interest in numeracy and provides a better understanding of the basic principles that drive mathematics. People of all ages will enjoy playing the game and won’t even notice that they are using techniques such as factorisation and algebra as they progress through the levels. The app is based on a unique concept - players pick up the skills without realising it because they are having so much fun with animated figures from mythology. Its structured layers gamify maths theory and promote logic, numeracy and memory skills in a puzzle aimed at players aged from 9 to 99. “We desperately need to change attitudes and
Don’t let your child be just a number culture so that maths becomes trendy. It is a huge shame that people feel discouraged and not motivated. So I set out to create an engaging and entertaining app to practice mental arithmetic. It will make people more comfortable with numbers and have a positive benefit for society which is one of my main motivations.” Research has highlighted declining standards in maths and a recent revised GCSE curriculum has been blamed for turning pupils away from studying maths at A-Level. Poor numeracy skills also affect national economic performance with studies claiming that the UK economy loses £20 billion a year from basic mathematical errors. “Maths is not only useful for managing financial matters in life like mortgages, credit cards and bills, but also is one of the best brain training exercises to keep you sharp,” adds Dr Blank. “Nowadays with smart devices it is very easy to be lazy. We then eventually lose the ability. I strongly believe that shortcomings in maths skills are a result of the lack of opportunities for practice and fun in a social environment. No one wants to go back to their school times tables. It was astonishing that there was nothing out there that had a fun, absorbing element built into it and be useful for any age group”. The game, which has a multi-player function and in-game advertising to generate revenue, has been tested on students at Imperial College London who gave it very positive feedback. The app has been developed in line with the UK national curriculum requirements and can be used to reinforce classroom learning and encourage numeracy play. The game is available to download on Android and IOS. www.czeuspuzzles.com
YUMMY MUMMY
“I had a very happy childhood, but I wasn’t that happy a child. I liked being alone and creating characters and voices. I think that’s when your creativity is developed, when you’re young. I liked the world of the imagination because it was an easy place to go to”.
THE WORLD OF
DAVID WALLIAMS
– David Walliams
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id you know that he’s the biggest selling children’s author to have started writing since the year 2000? Not only that, you can also read his books in over forty-six languages, and he’s sold over eight million copies worldwide! That’s a whole lot of kids laughing their pants off around the world. But there’s even more! You can watch Mr Stink, Gangsta Granny and The Boy in the Dress on
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DVD. And have you listened to all of the books on audio too? Hilariously read by David Walliams himself! And not forgetting that Ratburger, Demon Dentist and Awful Auntie have all won the National Book Awards Children’s Book of the Year. Since beginning his publishing career in 2008, David Walliams has taken the children’s literary world by storm. David is currently the fastest growing children’s author in the UK. Walliams’ books have achieved unprecedented critical acclaim and it comes as no surprise that countless broadsheet reviewers have compared him to his all-time hero, Roald Dahl. David is well known for his work with Matt Lucas. Together they created Little Britain, which has won numerous international awards including three BAFTAs and is now shown in over 100 countries. David and Matt followed Little Britain with the hugely popular spoof airport documentary series Come Fly With Me. David has also proven himself as a dramatic actor, with acclaimed roles in Stephen Poliakoff ’s Capturing Mary for BBC2, as Frankie Howerd in the biopic Rather You Than Me for BBC4, and on the West End stage in Harold Pinter’s No Man’s Land starring alongside Sir Michael Gambon and in Michael Grandage’s version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Noël Coward Theatre in 2013. In September 2011 David swam 140 miles from Gloucestershire to Westminster raising £2.5 million for Sports Relief. David has also proved popular in his role as a judge on TV talent show Britain’s Got Talent, where he found inspiration for one of the characters in his bestselling novel RATBURGER.