Yummy Mummy Magazine December 2019/January 2020

Yummy Mummy magazine

Presents the Baby Dior Spring/Summer 2020 Collection

DEC 19/JAN 20 issue 31

Yummy Mummy magazine

The luxury parenting publication for discerning mothers living in London

FROM THE

T

EDITOR

his season, Baby Dior stops over in a wonderful land of eternal childhood. For the spring-summer 2020 collection, Cordelia de Castellane tells the fabulous tale of Peter Pan through poetic creations in which pastel colors blend with graphic motifs.

Welcome to Diorland!

The sight of the Coca-Cola Truck is often said to mark the official start of Christmas and has done so ever since it first appeared in Coca-Cola’s famous ‘Holidays Are Coming’ advert.

Over the last nine years, the iconic truck tour has brought festive joy to people across the UK. It has travelled over 800,000 miles – the equivalent of 29 times around the world . Thousands of Christmas fans have basked in its 8,772 twinkling fairy lights and enjoyed the magical ‘Holidays are Coming’ jingle.

Europe’s first FAO Schwarz flagship destination has opened at the Selfridges London Oxford Street store. It is the first time America’s oldest and most prestigious toy retailer has ventured into Europe on such scale in its 157-year history.

London is a magical place to be at Christmas. With twinkling Christmas lights and trees set to the backdrop of some of London’s most iconic locations, a trip to an ice rink is a must. They are only open for a limited time so get your skates on before it’s too late!

There aren’t many women more qualified to talk about keeping fit while pregnant and exercising after having a baby than Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill.

One of Britain’s all-time sporting heroes, she took Olympic gold in the gruelling heptathlon in London 2012 and returned to win at the Beijing World Championships - just 15 months after giving birth to her first child.

Alex Lux Editor

THE TEAM 17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5HZ, UK

0844 800 8439

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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

Holidays are Coming…

The

The Christmas Truck Tour 2019 The iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck will be coming to a number of towns in London and the home counties, which will be open from 12pm and the queue for entry will close at 7pm

Tuesday 10th December: Sainsbury’s Beckton, London, E6 6JF Wednesday 11th December: Sainsbury’s Basildon, Essex, SS13 1SA Friday 13th & Saturday 14th December: Intu Lakeside Shopping Centre RM20 2ZP Sunday 15th December: 02 Arena, London, SE10 0DX To find out more about the Coca-Cola Christmas truck tour visit www.coca-cola.co.uk/trucktour

@CocaCola_GB (Twitter) @CocaColaEU (Instagram) #HolidaysAreComing *Guests at each stop will be offered a complimentary 150ml Coca-Cola zero sugar or a Coca-Cola original taste or Diet Coke upon request only

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Christmas Truck T

UK Tour 2019

he sight of the Coca-Cola Truck is often said to mark the official start of Christmas and has done so ever since it first appeared in Coca-Cola’s famous ‘Holidays Are Coming’ advert.

Over the last nine years, the iconic truck tour has brought festive joy to people across the UK. It has travelled over 800,000 miles – the equivalent of 29 times around the world . Thousands of Christmas fans have basked in its 8,772 twinkling fairy lights and enjoyed the magical ‘Holidays are Coming’ jingle.

‘Tis the season to be jolly!

In a snowy winter wonderland setting, visitors will be able to enjoy festive photo moments and enjoy a small can of Coca-Cola zero sugar* to get them in the Christmas spirit. In addition, when the Christmas Truck stops at Asda and Sainsbury’s stores, shoppers will be able to purchase a pack of 250ml glass bottles of Coca-Cola zero sugar, Coca-Cola original taste and Diet Coke and have the labels personalised with their name at the truck for a special festive treat.

This year, Coca-Cola has partnered with Crisis -

the national homelessness charity, which is now in its 52nd year. Coca-Cola will donate 10p for each can recycled by visitors at the truck tour, with funds going to Crisis to help people out of homelessness.

The initiative not only aims to help the charity, but also encourage recycling as part of Coca-Cola’s World Without Waste goal to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for each one sold by 2025 in Western Europe.

Specialising in Boys Suits, Shoes & Accessories Girls Dresses, Boleros, Shoes & More www.occasionwearforkids.co.uk

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The Magic of Christmas at ZSL London Zoo Until Monday 24 December 2019

ZSL London Zoo’s Meet Santa grotto is open during Zoo opening hours until Monday 24 December 2019

Meet Santa Child - £12 Accompanying adult - Free of Charge *Normal entry charges to ZSL London Zoo also apply, visit www.zsl.org for prices. Tickets must be booked in advance.

VIP Breakfast with Mrs Claus

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prinkle some extra magic over the festive season this December by journeying through the animal kingdom to celebrate the magic of Christmas at ZSL London Zoo. The Zoo is inviting kids to become Keepers’ Little Helpers – joining Santa’s elves in preparing Christmas surprises for some of the 18,000 animals to enjoy.

Families can then journey through a festive wonderland to meet Santa in his magical grotto at the heart of the Zoo, taking home a festive family portrait and special gift.

Spend a very merry day discovering the hundreds of species that call London Zoo home with 12 Animals at Christmas, a series of festive animal talks featuring the Zoo’s residents opening their very own Christmas presents. Enjoy the Zoo’s festive atmosphere, with Swiss-style chalets serving up tasty

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treats such as hog roast, toasted marshmallows and mulled wine for grown-ups.

Once the day is done the fun is far from over, as this year families can also settle down with popcorn to watch free Festive Movies every afternoon at the Zoo - including family favourites Arthur Christmas, The Polar Express, Elf, The Muppets Christmas Carol and more.

The Zoo is also hosting an extra special christmas VIP Breakfast on select dates: guests will have exclusive access to the Zoo before it opens to the public to enjoy a delicious breakfast with Mrs Claus at the Zoo’s Terrace Restaurant, before being whisked away by helpful elves to Meet Santa.

ZSL London Zoo is the perfect place for a festive day out this Christmas.

Find out more and book tickets online now at www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo/whats-on/ the-magic-of-christmas

Runs on Saturday 14 Dec, Sunday 15 Dec, and then from Friday 20 -Tuesday 24 Dec, at 8am – approximately 10am.

Adult £19.50 Child £40 *Normal entry charges to ZSL London Zoo also apply, visit www.zsl.org for prices. Tickets must be booked in advance.

Festive Films Daily at 12:30pm until Tuesday 24 December in the Zoo’s Huxley Theatre.

Extra 4:30pm screenings will take place at weekends and between Friday 20 – Tuesday 24 December.

To see a full list of films and dates and book tickets visit zsl/ org/magicofchristmas All tickets are free with Zoo entry, but places are limited so advanced booking is necessary.

YUMMY MUMMY

presents THE BABY DIOR SPRING/SUMMER 2020 COLLECTION T his season, Baby Dior stops over in a wonderful land of eternal childhood.

For the spring-summer 2020 collection, Cordelia de Castellane tells the fabulous tale of Peter Pan through poetic creations in which pastel colors blend with graphic motifs. Welcome to Diorland!

In this dreamlike paradise, Baby Dior’s Artistic Director invites children to choose their destiny and fly away to joyful destinations: from the deserts of India to pirate ships, passing by an island of a thousand treasures. Every one of these fantastic stops offers an enchanting horizon.

Sailor stripes, jean jackets and elegant checkered coats in white and gold or black and red invade the wardrobes of apprentice pirates, with skulls punctuating buttons and prints. Mischievous echoes of Tiger Lily appear in delicately embroidered white and khaki jacquards as well as tie-dye-style tulle dresses that invite little girls to dream of being brave heroines. On a magical island, vibrant designs

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in candy pink and fluorescent green appear like treasures.

Evoking Edwardian London, home to the daydreaming Wendy and her brothers, skirts, quilted jackets and sweatshirts patterned with imaginary newsprint – from the Daily Dior – illuminate everyday life with a touch of magic. Other looks paytribute to the lush gardens of Granville, Normandy, where the young Christian Dior enjoyed escaping into books. Bombers are embellished with delicate roses, while patches depict Dior’s childhood villa, Les Rhumbs, like sweet postcards.

A new logo, inspired by Monsieur Dior’s archives and Kim Jones’ menswear designs, reinterprets the CD initials in a minimalistic style. It surfaces in the form of a frieze on t-shirts, dresses and pants, or is concealed in tone-on-tone motifs on boys’ shirts.

A celebration of childhood that comes with the promise to keep your head in the clouds.

160-162 New Bond St, Mayfair, W1S 2UE. Tel: 020 172 0172. www.dior.com

“Baby Dior’s Artistic Director invites children to choose their destiny and fly away to joyful destinations: from the deserts of India to pirate ships, passing by an island of a thousand treasures”

Boy Printed hoodie, cotton, from £1,500; by Baby Dior Denim pants, cotton & modal, from £250; by Baby Dior Woven shoes, mixed materials, £530; by Baby Dior Girl Skirt, wool, from £2,250; by Baby Dior Ballerina pumps, leather, £430; by Baby Dior

YUMMY MUMMY

Boy Woven coat, wool, from £4,100; by Baby Dior Denim pants, cotton & modal, from £250; by Baby Dior Woven shoes, mixed materials, £530; by Baby Dior Girl Woven shirt, cotton, from £180; by Baby Dior Coat, wool, from £3,900; by Baby Dior Denim pants, cotton, from £1,450; by Baby Dior Shoes, leather, £330; by Baby Dior

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Shirt, cotton, from £180; by Baby Dior Woven coat, wool, from £3,900; by Baby Dior

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YUMMY MUMMY

Striped sweater, wool, from £2,250; by Baby Dior Woven skirt, wool, from £2,250; by Baby Dior Ballerina flats, leather, from £430; by Baby Dior

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T-Shirt, cotton, from ÂŁ155; by Baby Dior

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Left to Right Wool jacket, wool, from £3,900; by Baby Dior Striped sweater, wool, from £2,250; by Baby Dior Shirt, cotton, from £1,000; by Baby Dior Denim jacket, cotton, from £3,000; by Baby Dior Wool coat, wool, from £3,900; by Baby Dior

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YUMMY MUMMY

Selfridges opens Europe’s first FAO Schwarz Flagship in London More than a toy store, FAO Schwarz is a destination of imagination and discovery, showcasing an unrivalled experiential retail experience. Customers – especially children – can expect to be fully engaged with the space and its interactive offerings, such as Build Your Own Race Car, which enables shoppers to customise and build their own remote car from scratch, and My FAO Doll which enables children to acquire their doll through an exclusive immersive experience.

Top toys expected to be the most popular include: Sharper Image monster spinning remote control car, £16 FAO Schwarz Dance on Piano, £60 Discovery Planeterium, £25 FAO Schwarz plush giraffe 48 inch, £300

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urope’s first FAO Schwarz flagship destination has opened at the Selfridges London Oxford Street store. It is the first time America’s oldest and most prestigious toy retailer has ventured into Europe on such scale in its 157-year history.

At over 22,000 sq. ft, FAO Schwarz at Selfridges is the second largest FAO Schwarz destination after the Beijing store. The London outpost at Selfridges features the FAO Schwarz toy line - exclusive to Selfridges - as well as a comprehensive selection of products to satisfy all ages, from pre-school to early teens, catering for all tastes and genders.

FAO Schwarz at Selfridges will also house two new collections from the brand - Discovery #Mindblown, a learning-focused science and technology collection, as well as Sharper Image, a design and innovation driven robotics, remote control car and laser line.

The store will also offer the widest range of dolls, plush toys, kids tech, magnets, souvenirs and automotive toys as well as ranges from brands including Playmobil, Lego, Steiff, Bunnies By The Bay, Schleich and Build-a-Bear. At launch, well over 2,000 product lines will be on offer, backed by over 130,000 units of stock.

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Jellycat plush, from £15 Elsa feature doll, £40 Lego, from £5 L.O.L Glamper, £100 Owleez, £50

Additional play and exploration experiences include FAO’s iconic Rocket Ship, Clock Tower and, of course, FAO Schwarz’s famous dance-on piano.

Piano dancers will be on hand to teach customers of all ages and skill levels how to simultaneously dance and play songs .

FAO Schwarz’s hand-selected toy ambassadors and product demonstrators are also on hand to provide a world-class shopping experience with showmanship, thoroughly supporting the whimsical and theatrical wonderment FAO has always been known for.

FAO Schwarz is the premiere global brand in toys and today it is certainly the most dynamic experience and customer driven within its field,” said Martyn Stroud, Director of Home and Toys at Selfridges.

“We are thrilled to bring the wonder, excitement, and passion for toys at the heart of FAO Schwarz and offer them to our customers. The pairing of our brands, both originated by American founders and steeped in a shared sense of showmanship and outstanding customer service is a perfect fit.” www.selfridges.com

YUMMY MUMMY

London’s Coolest Ice Rinks London is a magical place to be at Christmas. With twinkling Christmas lights and trees set to the backdrop of some of London’s most iconic locations, a trip to an ice rink is a must. Here’s our pick of the best – they are only open for a limited time so get your skates on before it’s too late!

Queens House, Greenwich

Somerset House

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE Open until 12 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Hailed as one of the capital’s favourite winter experiences with unrivalled skating, groundbreaking music, seasonal shopping and delicious food and drink. The stunning courtyard is the backdrop to a beautiful ice rink and an impressive 40ft Christmas tree. The alpine-inspired Fortnum’s Lodge offers a range of delicious après-skate treats and The Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade brings a special selection of the iconic grocer’s products for festive shoppers. www.somersethouse.org.uk

Festive fun for everyone, penguin skating aids are available for your little ones! With a host of exciting attractions, rides and shows for all ages it is a onestop festive day out set in one of London’s most iconic locations. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

TIFFANY & CO SCENTED WINTER WONDERLAND & ICE SKATING Open until 26th December 2019, Covent Garden’s East Piazza A unique pop-up with the magic of the holiday season in an interactive, sensorial experience.

The shopping and entertainment hub has been transformed into a wintry destination inspired by the holidays in New York City, home to the legendary jewellery house. Guests are immersed in a world filled with oversized Tiffany Blue Boxes, sparkling snow, a snowman, a one-of-a-kind Tiffany & Co. ice-skating rink and a four-foot bottle of Tiffany Eau de Parfum inside a snow globe. www.eventbrite.co.uk Tiffany & Co Scented Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND Open until 5 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Welcome to London’s spectacular Christmas destination! The UK’s largest Ice Rink surrounds the picturesque Victorian bandstand, where you can unwind and glide with a gentle musical backdrop.

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SKATE AT THE QUEEN’S HOUSE, GREENWICH Open until 12 January 2020 South London’s only outdoor ice rink this winter. Located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the elegant surroundings of Royal Museums Greenwich, the Queen’s House Ice Rink is a magical place. You can enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and Greenwich Royal Park as you glide your way around the rink and enjoy warming treats from the food and drink stalls.

During museum opening hours, cafes and bars will also be open at the National Maritime Museum and Cutty Sark. Little ones are also catered for with penguin skate aids for children. www.rmg.co.uk/skate

Hampton Court Palace

your little ones, The Penguin Skate Club will be running lessons for children aged four to eight.

Acoustic Lates returns with intimate and unique free performances from some of the best new and emerging musical UK talent. www.nhmskating.com Skylight

SKATE AT SKYLIGHT LONDON

SKATE BACK IN TIME AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE Open until 6 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) For an unforgettable festive experience, look no further. Located in the gardens of the magnificent Tudor palace, the outdoor ice skating rink offers a memorable winter experience where King Henry VIII once lived. Whether a skater or spectator, you can enjoy delicious snacks and drinks day and night at the Ice Rink Cafe Bars. Offering a scrumptious selection from comforting soup and hot pies to indulgent drinks, it’s the perfect place to meet friends against the backdrop of one of London’s finest Palaces. www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK

“Located in the gardens of the magnificent Tudor palace, the outdoor ice skating rink offers a memorable winter experience where King Henry VIII once lived”

Open until 12 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Set against the stunning backdrop of one of London’s best-loved landmarks, the glistening ice rink is topped off with a sparkling 30ft Christmas tree. The Café Bar has a bird’s-eye view of the rink and open for seasonal treats, providing a place to stay warm out of the winter chill. For Natural History Museum

Open until 25 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Skylight takes your ice skating to new heights at London’s only real-ice rooftop ice rink. Show off your skills and get cosy up in one of the stunning igloos and mountain huts.or down in the snug bar.

Or head to the heated après skate bars illuminated with glimmering lights, serving up delicious foodie offerings and an array of warming wintery cocktails, mulled wine, beers and ciders www.skylightlondon.com

TOWER OF LONDON ICE RINK Open until 5 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) For a truly magical and unforgettable experience, ice skate at the city’s most iconic historical landmark, As you glide around the spacious rink, take in the ambience of the fortress beside the Thames. There are early morning sessions for little skaters and families, with evening skating under twinkling lights adding to the dramatic jaw dropping views. Head to the Ice Rink Café & Bar for snacks and indulgent treats and, Friday and Saturday evenings, cocktails are served by an expert mixologist of the Four Seasons Hotel. www.toweroflondonicerink.com

Tower Of London

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YUMMY MUMMY

A festive misadventure awaits this Christmas at

Shrek’s Adventure!

London Visit the magical Grotto in the land of Far Far Away where Santa has landed his sleigh.

Until 24th December 2019

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oulders are being swapped for baubles and mud for mince pies, as a magical Christmas Grotto experience returns at Shrek’s Adventure! London.

Kids and their families can step into the fairy tale world of Far Far Away on an immersive journey through Shrek’s swamp where Santa Claus has landed his sleigh.

Get ready for a blast of sparkly snowflakes and festive frolics as Santa welcomes guests into his magical Grotto complete with cheeky Elves who are on hand to spread the Christmas spirit.

All young misadventurers who visit the Grotto receive a ‘shrektacular’ gift and photo opportunity with Santa himself. This magical mischievous moment is not to be missed!

The adventure begins as you board a magical 4D flying bus to Far Far Away, with the loveable, yet mischievous Donkey. Journey through the slimey Swamp, then down Drury Lane and even pop by the Muffin Man’s house, as you become part of an incredible interactive escapade featuring some of your favourite Dreamwork’s characters including Puss in Boots, Rumpelstiltskin and Pinocchio.

Calamity, chaos and endless fun are the name of the game so strap in for a brilliantly bonkers experience, which the whole family can enjoy together.

Advanced booking is recommended, for more information visit: www.shreksadventure.com/London

“The adventure begins as you board a magical 4D flying bus to Far Far Away”

GROTTO OPENING DATES 2019: Saturday 14th December Sunday 15th December Then every day from 21st December - 24th December Attraction tickets prices on the door £30 (adult), £24.00 (children), book in advance online to save up to 30%.

Shrek’s Adventure! London is located on the South Bank close to Waterloo and Westminster station.

Open seven days a week – times vary please check the website for the most up to date information.

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DREAMWORKS TOURS SHREK’S ADVENTURE! LONDON Merlin Entertainments plc is a global leader in location based, family entertainment. As Europe’s Number 1 and the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates over 100 attractions, 13 hotels and 5 holiday villages in 24 countries and across 4 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable experiences to its more than 60 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its c.27,000 employees (peak season).

Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information

YUMMY MUMMY

London’s most

interactive Grotto has arrived in Chelsea Until 23rd December 2019

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he Chelsea Christmas Grotto offers an hour-long winter wonderland experience like no other. Famed children’s entertainers, Sharky & George have teamed up with Cadogan to create a truly immersive Christmas grotto, transporting children to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and his elves.

The grotto also offers a ‘My First Grotto’ session for under two-year-olds, and exclusive pre-school sessions for 4-year-olds and under.

Inside the grotto on Chelsea’s picturesque Pavilion Road, children can enjoy 30 minutes of classic Sharky & George games (while their parents relax!) before they enter Father Christmas’ workshop. Father Christmas is decked in luxurious red velvet and settled in front of the fire to read a festive story, before each guest is invited to meet him one-on-one.

He dazzles them with his knowledge of what they’ve been up to during the year and hands them a traditional gift from under the tree. Festive crafts are on offer, giving children the chance to enjoy trying their hand at gingerbread biscuit or bauble decorating.

THE DETAILS For more details visit www.designmynight.com/ chelseagrotto Tickets cost £27.50 and can be purchased via the website.

For any booking queries, please call Sharky & George HQ on 0207 9244 381or email grotto@sharkyandgeorge.co.uk

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At the pace tickets sold out last year, it is advised to book your space early.

Unlike traditional Christmas grottos, this event is packed full of mischief and mayhem and is also available for exclusive hire sessions, so grab a group of friends and get in touch to book.

Pavilion Road offers the perfect place for a coffee, glass of wine or last minute present shopping while the children have fun. London’s longest mews that runs parallel to Sloane Street, it has seen a complete transformation over the last two years. Formerly Victorian stable blocks, the road is now a picturesque haven for independent artisans, including a butcher, baker, greengrocer, cheesemonger, stationer, ice cream shop and wine merchant. The road is also home to three restaurants - Granger & Co, Wulf & Lamb and Hans’ Bar & Grill.

An optional donation of £1 is added to every ticket sale, which goes towards the K&C Foundation, an independent charity dedicated to bringing together people across the Borough to overcome hardship and exclusion.

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The ultimate Disney experience that will leave the whole family captivated which was all started by a mouse Until 5th January 2020

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rab your Mickey ears and get ready for the celebration of the century as Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic. Mouse-ter of Ceremonies Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and pals take to the ice to honour the legacy of Walt Disney and welcome audiences on a magical journey through classic and modern Disney tales. Families will join the fun in an exciting opening number that salutes Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as the original hosts of Disney On Ice. The production will be head to The O2 and go on tour across the UK. This fanfare production features more than 50 unforgettable Disney stars, a sing-along score of melodious masterpieces, stunning choreography, beautiful costumes and intricate sets. Audiences will travel to the heart of Africa with Disney’s The Lion King, come along for an adventure in friendship with the gang from Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story, and watch in amazement as Belle breaks the Beast’s curse in the tale of Beauty & The Beast.

Fans will enter the magical kingdom of Arendelle from Disney’s Frozen and journey up the North Mountain with hilarious snowman Olaf and rugged mountain-man Kristoff, as they help royal sisters Anna and Elsa discover that true love conquers all.

This year’s Disney On Ice production celebrates some of Disney’s most beloved characters from 14 treasured stories. Audiences will find themselves dancing out of their seats as a collection of Disney melodies like “Hakuna Matata,” “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Let

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THE DETAILS For the complete list of tour dates and to purchase tickets, visit www.disneyonice.co.uk Stay current on the latest developments through social media by visiting: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DisneyOnIceUK Twitter: @DisneyOnIce #100YearsOfMagic YouTube: www.youtube.com/ DisneyOnIce Instagram: @DisneyOnIce

It Go” fills the arena.” Fans can rock out to “Turtle Rock” with Nemo, Dory, Squirt and his rambunctious turtle friends, and fall in love with a musical montage of dazzling prince and princess pairs skating to “At Last I See the Light,” “A Whole New World” and more.

“This particular production is by far the largest Disney On Ice show we currently have touring bringing together everyone’s favourite Disney characters from Snow White, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse to Elsa and Anna,” said Producer Nicole Feld. “Our vision is for audiences everywhere to dance and sing along to their favourite Disney songs, so we’ve included 30 tunes that they know and love.”

The production will be heading to The O2 and Wembley Arena and on tour across the UK.

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scooby doo at B e honest, when you were a kid, there was at least one Scooby-Doo monster that scared the living daylights out of you.

Maybe it was the theatrically sinister demon puppeteer, the pterodactyl ghost that appeared without warning at the window, or - we shudder to think of it now - the evil hypnotic clown.

The first ever episode, What A Night For Knight, set the tone nice and early. As the camera pans down over a full moon to the sound of screeching violins, a truck driver fails to notice that the suit of armour he’s transporting has come alive, and is creeping up on him with a pair of glowing yellow eyes.

It’s really quite spine-tingling, and the following half-hour lays down the eternal Scooby-Doo template - chase sequences, Rube Goldberg traps, the required dose of Mystery Machine, and an entirely predictable unmasking at the end.

For many years, it was rinse and repeat - to near-universal acclaim.

Here, to celebrate 50 years of Scooby, we take a look back at the canine crime-stopper’s enduring appeal...

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50

Not-so-Mysterious Inc.

Looking back with adult eyes, perhaps the show’s greatest achievement was creating iconic characters - still one of the go-to group fancy dress costumes today - out of cardboard cut-out stereotypes.

Fred was a hunky blonde everyman who’d probably been on his college football team, and whose heroic lack of personality became a running joke in later seasons. Daphne was a distressed damsel with an hourglass figure, nearly as scared of the monsters as she was of breaking a nail, while Velma was intelligent, and therefore bespectacled and frumpy.

Best by far was Shaggy - an open-and-shut stoner with a grim little goatee, and clothes that were probably once a shade of cream. One of the first to popularise putting ‘like’ in every sentence, he had less success with his other buzzword, ‘zoinks’. We’re not going to ask what Scooby snacks are infused with, but they seem to be really moreish.

The most multi-faceted character is probably the titular Scooby, whose over-the-top gluttony and theatrical cowardice perfectly suit his role as a comedic, talking dog. He’s apparently a Great Dane, though with bowed legs, double chin and sloping spine you wouldn’t know it to look at him.

The many faces of Scoob It’s understandable that execs valued continuity, because when the pilot aired in 1969, the show had already been though enough iterations to make Terry Gilliam wince.

From the studios of Hanna-Barbera - nicknamed ‘the General Motors of Animation’ - early drafts detailed a show called ‘The Mysteries Five’, following a crime-solving rock band and their bongo-playing hound, ‘Too Much’. Daphne was ‘Kelly’, Velma was ‘Linda’, and Shaggy went by the less-than-snappy acronym ‘WW’.

After half a century of mysteries, Scooby snacks and unmasking ghouls, Luke Rix-Standing looks back at the canine crime-stopper’s enduring appeal.

For the first full pitch to CBS, the show was renamed ‘Who’s S-S-Scared?’, and focused more on supernatural spookiness than wink-at-thecamera comedy, but it was immediately branded too frightening.

A main piece of the puzzle fell into place with the name Scooby-Doo - surely the only cartoon character to be named after a Frank Sinatra lyric.

CBS executive Fred Silverman was inspired by Sinatra’s scat singing at the end of Strangers In The Night, in which the Chairman of the Board improved the line “doo-be-doo-be-doo”.

Following another rebrand - to the light-hearted capers of Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? - the show was accepted, and was an instant success. With the exception of the ill-fated New Scooby-Doo Movies, there followed the show’s golden years. Every dog has its decade, and the 1970s were Scooby’s.

The rise and fall of Scrappy-Doo It’s genuinely possible that Scrappy-Doo is the most hated cartoon character in history, but in 1979, he almost certainly saved the show.

Amid falling ratings the show-runners were demanding change, and, on pain of cancellation, the writers cautiously crafted a new character to slot in beside their main cast. “If this doesn’t work,” Barbera said, “Scooby is dead.”

On debut, Scrappy was a hit. Lauded by critics and audiences, the pugnacious pup was the perfect foil to Shaggy and Scooby’s cowardice, and injected some much-needed energy into a programme that was running out of storylines.

Buoyed by his success, executives promptly axed Daphne, Velma and Fred, and dropped all their responsibilities onto Scrappy’s diminutive shoulders.

Hindsight is 20/20, but even so, it was a dreadful move. Suddenly the star of a show that was not

his own, Scrappy’s fast-talking, cheeky-chappie act became steadily more irritating, even as the writers experimented with episodes without even Shaggy and Scooby.

Realising their mistake far too late, the show brought back Daphne in 1983, but ratings were irreversibly waning. Scrappy’s last cartoon aired in 1988, but it was the increasing internet access of the Nineties and Noughties that allowed fans to get together, and realise how much they all hated him.

A regular punchline in recent shows - “we all promised we would never speak of him again” Scrappy had a fitting sign-off as the Big Bad in the first Scooby-Doo movie. Portrayed as a petty, narcissistic little Napoleon, it was perhaps a tacit admission from the studio that maybe, at some point, they had goofed.

To borrow a quote from a very different franchise, Scrappy should have died a hero, but lived long enough to see himself become the villain. “Scrappy did exactly what he was supposed to,” wrote creator-in-chief Mark Evanier, “he got Scooby-Doo renewed for another season.”

The film was well received by critics, but not necessarily by all the fans. The charm of ScoobyDoo was always wrapped up in colour and quirk, and feelings of genuine threat were mitigated by the final reveal that the monster was - drum roll please - a man in a suit.

When the zombies are real, the whole tone shifts.

“Jinkies! Looks like the satanic cult revived the decomposing flesh with ancient voodoo, and then sustained their spell with human sacrifice. What a kooky mystery!”

By the time we got to Mystery Incorporated in the 2010s, the gang were facing down interdimensional demons called Annunaki, whose objective was nothing less that the destruction of space and time.

Scooby-Doo will keep creating new content, but his legacy is already assured, and it’s worth noting that he enjoyed a surge of renewed interest in the 1990s purely from a steady stream of reruns.

That’s the wonder of children’s television - to each new generation, Scooby too is new.

“Scooby-Doo will keep creating new content, but his legacy is already assured”

This time, they’re real Scrappy’s introduction was the first big tonal change - the second saw the advent of real, bona fide monsters. Take Scooby’s first full-length feature, Scooby-Doo On Zombie Island, a horror-comedy with hordes of zombies, frankly terrifying were-cats, and settlers being devoured by alligators.

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YUMMY MUMMY

Have a Merry Fish-mas with the

LONDON AQUARIUM’S PENGUIN PRESENT PURSUIT SEA LIFE London Aquarium is inviting families on a festive trail to find Ziggy the Penguin’s missing presents.

Saturday 7th – Sunday 29th December 2019

THE DETAILS Ziggy’s Penguin Present Pursuit is free of charge and will be available to all from Saturday 7th – Sunday 29th December.

For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.visitsealife.com/london/ tickets/

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amilies are in for a festive treat at SEA LIFE London Aquarium as they are invited on a magical Penguin Present Pursuit to help save Christmas.

The winter wonderland adventure takes families on an amazing journey of discovery where they will meet thousands of fin-tastic creatures as they try to help Ziggy the penguin find his lost Christmas presents hidden around the aquarium.

After searching for presents in the deep Ocean Tank, Coral Kingdom and Rainforest Adventure experience, the festive trail leads families to Penguin Point where kids can get closer than ever to the colony of Gentoo penguins and watch the exclusive Elf penguin feed.

Don’t forget to take the perfect Christmas selfie!

Visitors who find all the missing presents receive a free thank-you present from Ziggy to take home.

Whilst at the famous South Bank attraction, visitors can also enjoy everything else SEA LIFE London Aquarium has to offer. Whether visitors fancy getting into the Christmas spirit, trekking through Polar Adventure, taking a trip to the Coral Kingdom or heading down the Ocean Tunnel and over Shark Walk, there is something for everyone this festive season.

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Open seven days a week from 09:30-18:00. Please check the SEA LIFE London website for last entry times, as these may vary.

Prices online from £23 per adult, £18.50 per child (3-15 years) if booked ahead of time, or £29 per adult and £23 per child if purchased on the day County Hall, Riverside Building, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB Closest tube - Westminster

About Merlin Entertainments plc As Europe’s Number 1 and the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin operates over 120 attractions, 15 hotels and 6 holiday villages in 25 countries and across 4 continents.

The company aims to deliver memorable experiences to more than 65 million visitors worldwide.

Visit www.merlinentertainments. biz for more information

YUMMY MUMMY

Discover all there is to know about the history of chocolate by quizzing an expert, trust us you won’t be able to catch them out!

All guests will leave the experience with an exclusive goodie bag filled with Christmas Hotel Chocolat treats. The Festive Flight experience is available to book on the 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd December. With one capsule every hour from 2pm to 7pm each day. Spaces are limited so get booking before they are gone!

The London Eye Festive Flights are priced at £35 for an adult (16+ years) and £28 for a child (3-15years), price includes: • Festive Flight tasting experience with a Hotel Chocolat expert ambassador • One glass of prosecco (18+ only) • Hotel Chocolat Festive goodie bag • One 30-minute rotation • Fast Track entry

Take to the skies on a Festive Flight: the London Eye

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he UK’s most popular paid-for attraction, the London Eye, is taking Christmas to indulgent new heights with the ultimate family-friendly chocolate tasting session.

In partnership with Hotel Chocolat, the leading attraction will host a brand new 30-minute tasting experience in one of their world-famous capsules.

Designed with both kids and adults in mind, take a well-deserved break from the season of shopping by soaring 135m over the heart of the city as a family. You will be spoilt with delicious festive treats, and for the adults, a celebratory glass of Prosecco. Best of all you will skip the queue, with fast track entry included, as you enter a world of chocolate hosted by Hotel Chocolat’s expert ambassadors.

The whole family will get the chance to taste a range of imaginative and delicious Christmas themed chocolates, from moreish caramel penguins to dark chocolate reindeers, sourced from Hotel Chocolat’s renowned seasonal collection.

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While on-board, guests are reminded to share their festive experience with the hashtag #EyeLoveLondon for a chance to be included on the official London Eye social channels.

For more information and prices and to book tickets, go to: www.londoneye.com/whats-on/ christmas

“The whole family will get the chance to taste a range of imaginative and delicious Christmas themed chocolates, from moreish caramel penguins to dark chocolate reindeers, sourced from Hotel Chocolat’s renowned seasonal collection”

YUMMY MUMMY

THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue. Until 5 January 2020

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all Stories, the Olivier Award-nominated producers of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom live on stage, presents the West End premiere of The Snail and the Whale at the Apollo Theatre, performing for a limited run until 5 January 2020.

Join an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father as they reimagine the story of a tiny snail’s incredible trip around the world, inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture book The Snail and the Whale.

Longing to see the world, a tiny sea snail hitches a lift on the tail of a great big, grey-blue humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey,

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brought vividly to life through live music, storytelling and lots of laughs - but when the whale gets beached, how will the snail save him?

The Snail and the Whale is a heart-warming adventure for everyone aged four and up.

The book The Snail and the Whale, published

by Macmillan Children’s Books, has sold over 3.5 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 29 languages. Winner of the 2005 Blue Peter Award for ‘The Best Illustrated Book to Read Aloud’ and the 2007 Giverny Award in the USA, author Julia Donaldson has called it, “Probably my favourite of all the books I have written for Axel Scheffler to illustrate.” It is being adapted into an animated feature by Magic Light Pictures which will premiere on BBC One this Christmas.

Tall Stories’ production of The Snail and the Whale is influenced by the work of Storybook Soldiers, which helps British military personnel serving abroad to record bedtime stories for their children back home. Inspired by this scheme, the telling of the story features a faraway dad who records his own version of The Snail and the Whale and sends it home to his daughter, who would much rather be travelling the world with him.

Full casting includes Tim Hibberd (Dad/Whale), Charlotte Mafham (Narrator/ Viola Player), Hannah Miller (Daughter/Snail) Rachel Benson.

BOX OFFICE INFORMATION Box Office: 0330 333 4809 Tickets: £15 - £25 Groups rate available For a full performance schedule please visit www.snailandthewhalelive.com www.nimaxtheatres.com

YUMMY MUMMY

Lights, Camera... Action!

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parks film schools offer budding young filmmakers the chance to learn how to direct, shoot, edit and star in their own movie productions.

They offer weekly classes and holiday camps, including action-packed Summer Schools, for ages 5-18. The young filmmakers explore every aspect of film production, developing their own stories and scripts, as well as getting stuck in behind and in front of the camera. They build up lots of new skills and confidence along the way too.

Every year the groups celebrate their movies on the cinema screen at a fun red carpet premiere screening. Several classes have even been chosen to have their work screened at an international youth film festivals.

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There are Sparks film schools based in Balham, Dulwich, Hampstead, Highgate and Kensington.

There are also plans to open three new locations for summer 2020.

There are lots of upcoming opportunities to take part. A new term of their weekly classes starts up from January and there are lots of fun holiday camp offers coming up too. In February, filmmakers will be creating some Bear Grylls style ‘survival’ adventure movies. During the Easter break, filmmakers will be exploring plot twists and turns in a ‘Secrets and Lies’ themed event. Dates for their popular Summer Shoots schools are also available too.

They offer free trial classes, which can be booked online. To learn more, visit www.sparksarts.co.uk

“They offer weekly classes and holiday camps, including action-packed Summer Schools, for ages 5-18”

YUMMY YUMMY MUMMY MUMMY

Taking children shopping can boost early development… especially at Christmas!

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very woman loves to shop, but having children can hold you back from strolling round the boutiques and department stores of London looking for that next luxury item. Reminiscing of the days when you were free to spend bundles of cash followed by ‘ladies who lunch’ with your friends.

Taking the kids shopping can conjure up nightmare thoughts of boredom, temper tantrums, and ‘can I have this Mum?’ over and over again.

But have no fear, you can turn this around to your advantage…

A new study by academics from Oxford and The Open University has found that shopping actually boosts infants’ happiness levels and the development of everyday skills. Researchers said there was evidence of a “positive” link between shopping and the physical skills that children need to master in the early years.

The disclosure was made as part of a largescale analysis of parental activities and the impact they have on children. The study found that more passive activities such as watching television and looking through picture books had “no discernible benefits”.

Children are getting visual stimulation, they’re getting out of the house and into a new environment, they’re bumping into other families where social skills come into play and they may get the chance to do something physical in a shop like run around. There does seem to be a connection between the kinds of activities that are taking place and the skills that are being developed.

But this doesn’t just happen by magic, even at Christmas…

The key is to engage them when you are shopping, not dragging them behind you. In between you indulging in a fashion shopping frenzy, include some visits to stores that will capture their imagination and excite them. Hamley’s is top of the list with Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park - together with department stores that offer exciting window displays, kids workshops and activities.

And as we approach the festive season, there are a huge amount of family activities that can

“Children are getting visual stimulation, they’re getting out of the house and into a new environment”

encompass your shopping trip - like ice skating – Somerset House, Natural History Museum and Westfield will all have ice rinks open from November. Taking them to see Santa at one of the many department store Grotto’s will go down very well – Harrods, Selfridges and Hamley’s to name but a few, although you will need to book these in advance.

Giving your children some time to enjoy themselves will make them just a little more patient when you want to splash the cash on yourself.

Besides taking the kids Christmas shopping gives you a great chance to listen and observe them, compiling their ‘Christmas Wish List’ without them realising!

So next time you have the perfect excuse to go shopping with your friends, and purchase your little ones Christmas presents – in between the boutiques, hair salon and spa of course!

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YUMMY MUMMY

MINI ME FASHION Katie Wright shows

you where to shop the best celebrity-inspired sets for twinning with your kids.

1. Knitwear Statement jumpers are set to be on trend for both adults and kids this autumn, so why not get a matching pair? Sugarhill Brighton has a range of ‘mini me’ knitwear for one to seven-year-olds, with new designs including a giraffe, a lucky cat and a lightning bolt.

2. Swimwear Another way Kylie Jenner loves to twin with daughter Stormi is with matching swimsuits.

M&Co has a variety of cute swimwear sets for mums, dads, boys and girls, with sizes ranging from age three to 13 for kids.

3. Loungewear The most stylish way to be a stay-at-home mum?

With matching loungerwear sets for you and your sprogs. Premium loungewear brand Jayde has created mini versions of two of its super-soft sets, available for children aged nine months to 11 years.

4. Pyjamas Do Saturday morning snuggles in style, with coordinated PJs for mum and daughter.

From slogan tees to animal onesies, you can find adorable options on the high street from Peacocks and Matalan.

5. Shoes

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sually when it comes to celebrity fashion inspiration, we pore over what the stars are wearing in their Instagram or paparazzi pics, working out how we can steal their style and make it work for us.

But there’s a new trend which encompasses not only what the famous grown-ups are wearing, but the outfits their children are sporting too.

Beyonce’s daughter Blue Ivy has been twinning with her mum since she was a toddler, the singer’s lucky seven-year-old being treated to designer dresses and even some custom creations for red carpet appearances.

Kylie Jenner’s daughter Stormi Webster is only one and already the adorable tot has been seen on Instagram in a variety of bespoke ‘mini me’ outfits designed to match her reality star mum’s, the most recent being ruched blue dresses during their summer holiday in Italy.

Now the twinning trend has hit the high street, encompassing everything from swimwear to shoes, so you can make like a celeb and coordinate with your kids at home or on holiday.

Here are five ways to try the trend with your mini me...

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Complete your ‘mini me’ look with matching shoes for you and your nippers. TOMS has recreated some of its bestselling styles for children, offering everything from suede booties for babies to classic canvas slip-ons for teens in the ‘youth’ collection.

Robert & Son Beachwear R

obert & Son is a family run business inspired by the magic of holidays spent sailing, surfing and hanging out at the beach. Father of two sons, Marc created the business after trying – and failing to find stylish, coordinating father and son shorts at a reasonable price. Robert and Son is now an internationally recognised brand found in some of the worlds most luxurious resorts and hotels, filling a niche in the men’s swimwear market and satisfying the needs of fathers and sons all over the world in those precious years of bonding. Our SS19 collection was inspired by our summer adventures! From picking fresh lemons in Italy, pelican watching in Florida and watching the boats come in to our local harbour in Wells-next-the-sea we have tried to combine our summer of memories into our SS19 collection and we hope you and your family love them as much as we do! Our shorts are designed for adventures, made from 100% polyester they are quick drying, ideal for wet games of football, climbing trees and reading your favourite books together in the sun. We wanted to create shorts that encourage adventure, are durable and easily washed- we think we have managed to achieve this!

Visit robertandson.co.uk or follow @robertandsonbeachwear on Instagram

use code YUMMYMUMMY20 and SAVE

20%

Robert & Son www.robertandson.co.uk info@robertandson.co.uk Tel: 08452 414 244 14 Bull Street, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6HP

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YUMMY MUMMY

FUN AT GODSTONE FARM J

ust because we are in the depths of winter doesn’t mean the good old outdoors is off limits!

Godstone Farm is perfect for entertaining your family whatever the weather, come rain or shine. There’s weather-proofed fun with a perfect mix of indoor activities for your family to discover, explore and play. Our playbarn is unique and designed for kids of all ages. Relax with babies in the mini area, or keep up with energetic toddlers in the designated space for under 4’s. We’re bursting with toys, prams, cars and slides! The bigger children can go free range in the mega soft play, they can climb and slide around while you relax with refreshments from the café.

If you head to Wiglet’s Play Village you’ll discover an adventure area where children can role play being a vet, working on a construction site or cooking up a storm in the kitchen, plus a thrilling ball play zone too! With over 500 animals and many of them inside cosy barns and buildings there’s no need to miss out on the wholesome farm fun in winter months – bunny cuddles, guinea pig stroking and meeting resident bugs is an every-day occurrence! Chat to children about the sheep in their woolly coats or encourage them to pretend to be goats who keep active by climbing and jumping!

The great mix of sensory experiences are so important for the development of little ones, and the farm can provide the perfect balance of fun and education, with dedicated indoor spaces it means the fun can continue all year round.

We also mustn’t forget one of the firm favourite activities for on the farm…puddle jumping! Yes! Grab your wellies and get outdoors while we feed the pigs, or bounce around the Dino Trail in your wet weather gear, sometimes getting dirty is just good old fashioned fun! There’s a tractor

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ride running every day, and special events over Christmas, New Year and February half term so always be sure to check the website for the next awesome event.

Godstone Farm is one of the oldest farm parks, and has just celebrated its 40th birthday.

Based just a stones throw away from the M25 in the rolling Surrey Hills it’s a beautiful spot for quality time as a family. Easy to access from J6 or via a train to Caterham, the farm is open all year round, and only closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. www.godstonefarm.co.uk

“We also mustn’t forget one of the firm favourite activities for on the farm… puddle jumping”

YUMMY MUMMY

BEATRICE & BEE PARTY COLLECTION the opportunity to see all the children proudly wearing their combined outfits.

The Story Beatrice & Bee came to life after Portuguese mum-of-two Maria decided to bring to the UK the traditional and stylish designs from her home country, bearing in mind responsible practices.

From the selection of conscious materials like recycle and organic cotton fabrics to trusted ateliers in Portugal, that could ensure that fair and safe working conditions always take place.

“Sustainability is also about making quality clothes that can be worn many times by siblings, cousins or friends, lasting from generation to generation. And timeless designs never go out of fashion!” she says.

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his party season brings the exciting launch of the Christmas Collection of Beatrice & Bee. The London-based sustainable childrenswear brand has put together traditional styles with beautiful tartans and modern designs that ensure comfort for the baby and child (0M-6Y).

The collection includes comfortable bloomers, stylish dresses and sweet rompers, made from delicate and organic fabrics, carefully selected for children’s delicate skin.

Colours and Matching The colour palette focuses on timeless tartans with burgundy, bottle green and navy blue and adds a touch of sophisticated French Blue. All together this results in a beautiful collection that also includes a delicate floral print edition and a range of handmade accessories, like bow clips and hairbands to complete the look.

This festive collection was also designed to match looks for siblings and cousins. Each collection of Beatrice & Bee is made to co-ordinate styles, but at Christmas this makes even more sense. It’s the special occasion that reunites the family and gives

Proudly made in Portugal The founder and designer also believes in beautiful craftsmanship and traditional techniques. That’s why she wanted to produce her garments in Portugal well known for its textile history. “I wanted to produce a product based in ethical and noble skills that I could be proud of in all ways” she added. All garments are also produced in small quantities to guaranty the quality making each one very special and unique.

After many requests from mums that would like to keep dressing their children with Beatrice & Bee’s clothes, the brand will extend its size range up 10Y on the next SS20 Collection.

The Christmas Party Collection is available online at www.beatriceandbee.com

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new Beauty app in london

expert Beauty services at Home, office or hotel

Download our app and get ÂŁ10 Discount coDe on all our services for 12 months. Discount code: liFeMaG10 www.spa-concierge.co.uk

The Willow Nursery Established for over 30 years, a family run, traditional nursery school with fantastic outdoor garden and play area.

For 21/2 to 5 year olds.

Morning and afternoon sessions available.

Term time only.

For more information, please call 020 7498 0319 55 Grafton Square, Clapham Old Town, London SW4 0DE www.thewillownursery.co.uk admin@thewillownursery.co.uk

YUMMY MUMMY

Join the Beasts of London on an immersive tour Museum of London, Until 5th January 2020

Images: Museum of London

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he Museum of London presents Beasts of London; a state of the art, immersive and digital experience that takes visitors on a journey through time, from before London was created through to the present day.

Inspired by objects drawn from the museum’s world class collection and working in partnership with Guildhall School of Music & Drama, this family-friendly show brings you face to face with the beasts both large and small who helped shape the city we know today. Made up of nine episodes, each tells the story of the capital from an animal’s perspective, highlighting some of the city’s most iconic moments.

Starting in pre-history with the very first of London’s beasts you are then guided through the arrival of the Romans. Then comes the Medieval Age when the first menageries were built in the city and then through the disastrous years of the Great Plague of the 1600s. From there you find yourself transported inside a rowdy Victorian tavern, centre ring underneath a bustling big top at the Circus and then standing side by side a group of noble horses from across the ages. Finally, you arrive back in in the 21st century to explore people’s relationship with the city’s animals today.

The animals throughout the experience are voiced by well-known names such as Kate Moss, Brian Blessed, Pam Ferris, Nish Kumar, Stephen Mangan, Angellica Bell and Joe Pasquale alongside

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actors from Guildhall School.

Francis Marshall, Senior Curator at the Museum of London said: “Beasts of London is the first fully-immersive show presented by the Museum of London. It is a journey that is surprising, creative, visually striking, emotionally affecting and encourages visitors to look at the animals of London in a new way and to consider our city from a very different perspective. It is a product of intensive research and boundless imagination from our team in partnership with Guildhall School of Music & Drama and is sure to appeal to audience members of all ages.”

THE DETAILS For further information visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ beastsoflondon Variable pricing. Family tickets from £20 #BeastsofLondon Museum of London, 150 London Wall, London, EC2Y 5HN

Christmas at Bocketts Farm E xperience a Magical Christmas at Bocketts Farm, as Father Christmas returns every day until the 24th December. Hop aboard the Santa express and travel in style to the magical workshop. Here you’ll gather as a group for some fun with the elves before meeting Father Christmas himself and receiving a golden coin to spend in his very own toy shop!

There’s more festive fun on the farm too with a fun Christmas trail to complete, reindeer food to make, baby lambs to meet, a giant snow globe to explore, heated soft play barn and a full programme of activities. Tickets to see Father Christmas must be purchased in advance.

Visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk/explore/ christmas/ for times and availability. Tickets from £17.50 - £24.95 per child.

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YUMMY MUMMY

TAKING CENTRE STAGE…

How to get your kids into stage school

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hows like the X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent make fame seem fast track, but behind the scenes is often a long, arduous journey. The idea of your child forging a career on stage may seem a risky one, but with renowned stage schools offering academic studies alongside the vocational, children can perfect their talents while gaining a secure education.

Read on for our guide to getting your child into stage school...

Parents who are interested in letting their children follow the creative path should start looking into some of the best acting schools for kids in UK. Children at a young age will benefit from learning drama at stage schools in many different ways, not least of which is gaining confidence.

Acting schools for kids help with raising child’s self-esteem and levels of confidence, and positive reinforcement is one of the key factors to successful training and fun creative outlet. Even if your kids aren’t interested in pursuing careers in the entertainment business or the artistic world, all the tools that good teachers in some of these best acting schools for kids in UK will provide them with will benefit students in many different aspects.

Kids learn best when they are surrounded by fun, supportive and understanding teachers. They love to

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play and learn when the environment is comfortable and relaxed instead of being confined to stress of work. Some of these best acting schools for kids is exactly what your child might need, and the classes will usually be kept to smaller sizes in order to provide a safer, more focus environment.

In addition to having kids learn acting from a variety of other sources, including reading books that expand imagination, stage schools can also be a great idea. Best acting schools for kids in UK will focus not only on educating children in the artistic field but building their confidence levels, exploring and praising their creativity.

But above all else, the most important part of having your child attend one of these acting schools for kids is that they will have an insane amount of fun playing, and definitely enjoy the process!

Sylvia Young Theatre School A specialist performing arts school offering excellent vocational and academic education. The school was established in 1981 in Drury Lane. In July 2010, they moved to premises in Nutford Place, just off Seymour Place in W1. The site houses two vocational floors with studios, rehearsal rooms, a recording studio, two academic floors and a large

Italia Conti Arts Centre

canteen with two courtyard gardens.

Ages: “The Sylvia Young Theatre School is nondenominational and co-educational. Students range from 10 to 16 years of age.”

1 Nutford Place, London W1H 5YZ www.syts.co.uk

The Barbara Speake Stage School The school was opened on February 10th 1945 as a dancing school only, by the present principal Miss Barbara Speake MBE. In 1963 it became a full time school providing academic and artistic training. The strength of the school is in its friendly atmosphere, traditional qualities and caring and committed staff. If you wish for a small happy school for your child, where every teacher can care for his or her indivudual needs, then it is here. It has been proved that pupils here succeed though enjoyment of their school which gives them confidence to follow whatever path they choose whether in the field of entertainment, or in a more academic career.

Ages: “Barbara Speake Stage School, London is an independent school for boys and girls aged from 4 to 16.”

East Acton Lane, East Acton, London, W3 7EG www.barbaraspeake.com

West End Summer School The Ultimate Theatre Summer School for 8–21 year olds. An amazing week-long course at the renowned Guildhall School of Music & Drama, past students of which include Daniel Craig and Orlando Bloom! Led by top industry professionals and West End stars that gives your child the chance to perform on a West End Stage!

West End Stage, Top Floor, 17 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden WC2E 7NL

“If you wish for a small happy school for your child, where every teacher can care for his or her indivudual needs, then it is here. It has been proved that pupils here succeed though enjoyment of their school”

One of the most famous stage schools in the UK. Founded in 1911, the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts is Britain’s oldest Performing Arts training school. It is renowned throughout the world as a training centre of excellence. Italia Conti Arts Centre in Guildford, Surrey, is the addition to their growing campus and offers a range of unique courses which incorporate quality Performing Arts Training with the opportunity to undertake Teacher Training qualifications. They provide full and part time courses for students of all ages, from little ones finding their feet, through to professional training for those embarking on a career in Performing Arts and Musical Theatre.

Ages: “Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, London is an independent school for boys and girls aged from 10 to 19.”

23 Goswell Road, London, EC1M 7AJ www.italia-conti.com

BRIT School The BRIT School is a Performing Arts and Technology School for teens aged 14-19, located in Croydon. Students have the chance to study vocational subjects in dance, theatre, music and media alongside the national curriculum.

The BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology, 60 The Crescent, www.brit.croydon.sch.uk

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Stagecoach Theatre Arts is a highly regarded network of performing arts schools with a proven record of delivering quality dance, drama and singing lessons to youngsters worldwide. Over the years Stagecoach has provided a springboard for some of the UK’s leading young talent and has had the privilege of watching thousands of kids grow in confidence and ability. Their formula of teaching small classes of children an hour of dance, an hour of singing and an hour of drama on a weekly basis was an instant success.

Ages: “Dance, Drama & Singing Classes for 4-18 year olds” Multiple locations across the world. www.stagecoach.co.uk dec 2 0 1 9 / jan 2 0 2 0 4 9

Are you StruggliNg WitH cHildcAre?

Here at Baby Steps Nannies we aim to make the search for a nanny as seamless and pain free as possible!

We pride ourselves on providing a bespoke and personal service depending on your individual requirements, whether you need a full time live in nanny or after school help we aim to find the perfect childcare solution for you. if you want to know more, we are always on the end of the phone so give us a call on 0208 652 9949. Whether you are just curious as to what we do or if you want a hand with your search, we will be happy to help.

Baby Steps Nannies ltd babystepsnanniesltd

@babystepsnanny www.babystepsnannies.co.uk

PREGNANCY,

BIRTH & BABIES

– Keeping you and baby happy and healthy throughout pregnancy and birth – i mage : J E SICC A E NNIS - H I L L O N P R E G N A NC Y E X E R CIS E

YUMMY MUMMY

A game changing gadget for bottle feeding parents E veryone who has tried bottle feeding a hungry baby knows the feeling. The frustration that builds up as you wait for the bottle to get ready with a crying baby in your arms.

It was this frustration that gave a tired Danish engineer-dad the idea of inventing milkymeter™, a nifty little gadget that is a game changer for bottle feeding parents. With milkymeter you can warm baby’s bottle to the right temperature in the microwave without the risk of overheating or dangerous hotspots meaning you will save valuable minutes every time you need to feed your hungry baby.

“Milkymeter is a thermometer for use in the microwave” Milkymeter is a thermometer for use in the microwave. It is designed especially for milk bottles and has several temperature sensors that make it possible to accurately and safely measure temperature development in the microwave while 5 2 dec 2 0 1 9 / jan 2 0 2 0

warming. Milkymeter will flash a clear blue light to let you know it is working, flashing more raid when the right temperature is approaching. When milk is reaching body temperature, milkymeter will flash a strong green light, telling you to stop the microwave. All you then have to do is to stir milk with milkymeter, pop the teat on the bottle, test temperature as usual and serve the bottle to baby.

In case you do not stop the micro and the milk overheats, milkymeter will flash a red warning light indicating the milk is too hot and must be cooled down before serving.

Previously, the use of the microwave for warming up baby bottles has not been an option. Simply because the heating process is so fast that you risk overheating the milk which may burn your baby’s mouth and damage nutrients in the milk. With milkymeter, you now have a way of controlling the heating process. Using revolutionary Microweter Technology, milk, breastmilk or formula can now safely be warmed in a microwave, removing the risk of hot spots whilst preserving the vitamins and minerals found in breastmilk.

See more: www.milkymeter.com

YUMMY MUMMY

DAME JESSICA ENNIS-HILL on EXERCISING when PREGNANT The former heptathlete and all-round super woman chats to Lauren Taylor about how to stay fit in pregnancy and body confidence after a baby.

It was a comeback the world is still astonished by, and a true inspiration whatever your career or fitness goals after having a baby.

The 33-year-old is now a mum-of-two to Reggie, five, and Olivia, two, and, as you might expect, she exercised throughout both pregnancies. So she’s on a mission to take the confusion out of prenatal fitness.

“There are so many misconceptions,” she says.

“There’s still a lot of stigma attached to it. Even when I was exercising when I was pregnant with Reggie, I had people saying, ‘Should you really be running?’”

There’s a lot of fear, understandably. “You’re stepping into an unknown world for the first time and it’s that worry that you don’t want to do anything to harm your child,” Ennis-Hill says.

“Most women think, ‘I’m not even going to risk it’. You never want to push yourself through pain barriers but you can exercise where you feel your heart rate getting up.”

Muscles to work in pregnancy

T

here aren’t many women more qualified to talk about keeping fit while pregnant and exercising after having a baby than Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill.

One of Britain’s all-time sporting heroes, she took Olympic gold in the gruelling heptathlon in London 2012 and returned to win at the Beijing World Championships - just 15 months after giving birth to her first child.

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“Pelvic floor, that’s a really key area,” she says, “and quad muscles; it’s important to make sure they’re stretched out so they don’t become tight and your pelvis sits in a different way, and then your bum is in a different position and that creates problems for your back.

“A lot of women suffer back problems throughout their pregnancy and years after, so make sure you keep this area strong, so you can support your baby.

“Glutes; when you’re pregnant your weight shifts and I found that my glutes were just switching off - and you get that flat bum where everything’s

“The 33-year-old is now a mum-of-two to Reggie, five, and Olivia, two, and, as you might expect, she exercised throughout both pregnancies. So she’s on a mission to take the confusion out of prenatal fitness”

forgotten how to work!

“Upper body, as well. You forget when your baby arrives you’re going to be so physical - I feel like I’ve strained by bicep from carrying Liv around! “

The type of exercise to do Most aerobic exercise, such as running (if you’ve run before), stationary bike, yoga and swimming, is generally recommended. However the NHS advises that activities like skiing, cycling and horse riding might cause a fall which can be a risk to the baby.

Body-weight home workouts, like those on Ennis-Hill’s own app Jennis - which has loads of short, safe at-home workouts for all stages of pregnancy (and postnatal) - can help target specific muscles.

“A really simple exercise, that’s getting you to engage your core, is you’re on all fours just lifting your hands [one at a time]. You can do it all the way through your pregnancy.” Or, “With your hands on the floor, lift each knee up, and that’s activating your core in a different way. I found those two exercises really helpful during pregnancy, and postnatally.”

She recommends uses a TheraBand (a resistance band) too: “Standing and activating your glute by taking your leg out to the side, or lying on the floor on your side and doing clams.”

Safety issues to bear in mind No mums-to-be, even Olympians, can blindly carry on their fitness routine as normal. Finding out you’re going to have a baby is not the time to start a gruelling regime if you didn’t exercise before, but it’s relative to what you did in the lead up to your pregnancy.

“If you were an Olympic weightlifter and you could lift 100 kilos, and you were then lifting 20 kilos [when pregnant] that’s fine for you, but it wouldn’t be fine for the average person,” says Ennis-Hill, who herself ran once or twice a week - “obviously I got slower and slower” - plus calf work, squats and lunches.

“You’re not trying to improve your fitness necessarily, it’s going to drop a bit, you’re just trying to maintain some fitness - that’s what my coach always taught me. So no pushing through your comfort zone, you should be able to hold a conversation.”

She adds it’s important not to overheat when exercising pregnant. “Wear loose clothing, don’t let your body get too hot.”

Accept your body has changed after a baby - but it can be even stronger Ennis-Hill says of her famous six pack: “Maybe I was a bit naive, I was thinking it will come back straight after.

“One thing I learned was to take my time,” she says.”I could always run fast because I trained so hard, but after Reggie I couldn’t. It was emotional.

I thought, ‘I can’t do this’, and it was emotional because of all the hormones.

“Once you become a mum, you have a massive appreciation for how your body changes and what

it’s actually capable of doing. I thought training for London 2012 was the toughest time of my life - but it was a breeze compared to training with a child!

I had to build all my strength back up but months down the line, I was actually the strongest I’d ever been, even before having Reggie.”

Like many mums, Ennis-Hill has to be savvy about fitting exercise around her kids now. “Time is so limited and it’s really unpredictable with children.

For me it helps to have a plan, and doing the right type of training - short sessions, blast your body and you’re done. I don’t have time to drive to the gym. I don’t have time to exercise every day.

“Now I just use exercise to make me feel good, I want my kids to see me exercising and I don’t want them to have any hang-ups about their bodies - things like that get into their heads quite young.

We’re all guilty of saying, ‘I’m a bit fat here’, but the kids don’t need to hear it.

It might be a surprise to hear that even super lean Ennis-Hill felt insecure about her post-baby body.

“I was going back to competing where I’d have to wear a crop top and running knickers, and you’re very conscious of how your body has changed. I felt anxious about that.

“It’s about knowing your body isn’t going to go back to exactly what it was. You can get close, but you just want to be confident and happy in the way you look - and you can achieve that through exercise.”

Jessica Ennis-Hill’s fitness app Jennis Fitness (jennisfitness.com) is available to download on iOS and Android for £9.99 per month.

“Most aerobic exercise, such as running (if you’ve run before), stationary bike, yoga and swimming, is generally recommended”

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YUMMY MUMMY

ASK THE EXPERT:

WHY HAS MY HUSBAND BEEN SO STRESSED SINCE the BABY was born?

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US researcher highlights possible biological causes of postnatal depression in new dads, as well as how to deal with the problem.

I’ve got a two-month-old baby and my husband has become increasingly bad-tempered and stressed since she was born. Is this likely to be some kind of postnatal depression, and what can we do about it?

Dr Darby Saxbe, an assistant professor at the University of Southern California’s psychology department, has just led a study into parents’ biological responses in he early months of a child’s life.

She says: “It’s common to feel tired, stressed, and short-tempered in early parenthood. You’ve got a tiny creature waking you up every few hours, demanding to be held and fed, and your pre-baby life and self are forever changed.

“Who wouldn’t be overwhelmed? We often hear about the bliss of welcoming a new baby, but less often about how exhausting, lonely, and frustrating

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those first few months can be.

“Postnatal depression can affect both mothers and fathers, and may be biologically-based. My research team recently published a study which found men with lower testosterone reported more depressive symptoms during the postpartum period.

Testosterone tends to drop in men during the transition to parenthood, which may help explain why depression risk increases during this time.

“If your husband seems particularly hopeless and sad, isn’t enjoying activities that usually give him pleasure, and can’t be cheered up, he may be depressed. The first line of defence is selfcare: sleep, exercise, and socialising are all known to reduce depression risk, so encourage him to prioritise healthy habits.

“If his mood doesn’t lift, talk therapy can be very effective for depression, particularly researchsupported treatments like cognitive-behavioural therapy.”

“The first line of defence is self-care: sleep, exercise, and socialising are all known to reduce depression risk”

YUMMY MUMMY

We talked to Claire Magee, MD of Nannycare, to find out more about their goat milk based Follow on formula for babies.

Does goat milk based Follow on formula have a distinct taste or strong smell?

As specialists in goat milk formula for babies, we understand the nature of goat milk and how to treat it to ensure great tasting milk that babies will enjoy without the strong aroma often associated with goat milk. Gentle handling during production ensures a pleasant and delicate aroma, very similar to regular milk. We also use the whole milk and process it minimally, reducing heat treatment where possible to help ensure it retains its delicate flavour. For additional reassurance, every batch of Follow on milk is sensory tested before release so that babies will love its mild and creamy taste.

Is goat milk based Follow on formula safe and approved?

Following an extensive clinical trial with the Nannycare formulation and submissions to the European Food Safety Authority, we are proud to say that, since March 2014, goat milk formula is recognised under EU and UK legislation as a nutritionally equivalent alternative to cow’s milk-based formula¹. Goat milk Follow on formula can be used in exactly the same way as its cow’s milk equivalent and is just as safe and suitable for your baby.

Why choose goat milk based Follow on formula?

We chose to use goat milk over cow’s milk as a base for our formula because of its reputation as a soft and gentle milk. Goat milk is also a high quality protein source which provides essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. We also use the whole milk including the milk fat because it naturally contains the Milk Fat Globule which is important for digestive health, immune and central nervous system development. Recent studies have shown that when the Milk Fat Globule is added back into other formula milks where the milk fat has been removed, babies given this have better development, digestive

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“Nutritionally both cow’s milk and goat milk-based Follow on formulas are equal, and parents can choose between either milk if they wish to move on from, or complement, breastfeeding”

systems and fewer infections².

Can I use goat milk Follow on formula if my baby has a minor feeding issue?

There are many similarities between goat milk and cow’s milk, but also some differences in the protein and fat. In the event of minor feeding issues or baby not settling on cow’s milk formula, it may be worth trying goat milk Follow on formula as an alternative. However, always refer to a healthcare professional before switching. Goat milk formula should not be given to babies with cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Careline UK: 0800 328 5826 ROI: 1800 937 375 E: enquiry@nannycare.co.uk www.nannycare.co.uk Important notice: Breastfeeding is best for your baby and should continue for as long as possible. Nannycare Follow on milk is for babies over 6 months, as part of a varied weaning diet. It should not be used as a breastmilk substitute before this age and should be used on the advice of a healthcare professional. ¹Directive 2006/141 (EC) and equivalent UK legislation ²Demmelmair H et al. “Benefits of lactoferrin, osteopontin and MFGM for infants”. Nutrients 2017;9.

YUMMY MUMMY

Say hello to fun-terior design Key features

I

ntroducing gus + beau, premium baby playmats in muted colours and simple patterns, designed to complement the modern home’s style and aesthetic. We’ve kept our design principles simple - clean lines, stylish patterns, and minimalist colours.

My name is Liz Rawlinson and I am the founder of gus + beau. I have worked in ecommerce retail for over 10 years, working for incredible companies such as Liberty, L’Oréal, notonthehighstreet.com and Anya Hindmarch. After the birth of my second son, Gus, in 2017, I found myself looking for ways to create safe playing areas for him in our living spaces at home. I struggled to find beautiful playmats which would blend in with our interiors. I spotted a gap in the market; a premium playmat that was not only functional and safe, but complemented our home’s style and aesthetic.

So, while on maternity leave, I decided to design and

“I struggled to find beautiful playmats which would blend in with our interiors” manufacture my own. After working in retail (and spending a lot of time on Instagram) I could see that parents wanted simple designs in muted tones and clean patterns when it came to playtime for their babies. My two greatest inspirations are my sons, Gus and Beau. In October 2016, our first son Beau was stillborn when I was 38 weeks pregnant. I was lucky enough to have Gus a year later in October 2017. This is for Gus, our rainbow baby, and Beau who is forever in our hearts.

We launched in March 2019 with two patterns: Circle and Triangle, each coming in grey and white 6 0 dec 2 0 1 9 / jan 2 0 2 0

variations, with 4 playmats to choose from. In September 2019 we have expanded our range to include a brand new design: Multicolour Mini Cross Playmat, as well as adding new colours of pink and blue to our Triangle design. Each playmat set comes with 6 deluxe foam tiles, 60cm x 60cm and a plush 1.4cm thick, protecting little ones from bumps.

Assembled mat size is 122cm x 180cm, similar to the size of a rug in a living space. You can purchase more than one set for larger spaces and the tiles will fit together seamlessly. No toxic nasties – we use the highest quality EVA foam which is BPA-free, leadfree and phthalate-free. And the best part? They are wipe clean! Music to parents’ ears. www.gusandbeau.com

• Tough and tumble ready: Perfect for tummy time, our cushioned playmats create a safe space for little ones.

• Assembly is child’s play: Each tile fits together like a puzzle, meaning our playmats canadapt to fit your space.

• No toxic nasties: When it comes to little ones, safety comes first – no compromises, no exceptions. Our EVA foam mats are BPA-free, lead-free and phthalate-free. We’re also EU safety-certified, giving parents peace of mind.

Designs and prices • NEW Grey with multicolour mini crosses • NEW White with pink triangles • NEW White with blue triangles • White playmat set with grey triangles • Grey playmat set with white triangles • White playmat set with grey circles • Grey playmat set with white circles Each set is priced at £65 We currently ship within the EU.

YUMMY MUMMY

BUILDING independence with

M

MyJamas

yJamas are the brainchild of sisters-in-law Helen Brimacombe and Claire Carlile. Their luxury award-winning range of organic cotton pyjamas help little ones take their first few steps to independence by making it easy to get ready for bedtime. With 7 beautiful prints to choose from, all with the unique design feature of ‘clever cuffs’; children simply match up their cuffs on the left and right wrist and ankle, helping them get dressed by themselves at night.

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Made with the highest quality organic cotton, absolutely no chemicals in the dyes or scratchy neck labels and a smooth waistband, they are quite simply the softest pyjamas your little ones could dream of.

They are perfect for young, sensitive skin and what is more they wash beautifully and can be tumble dried (always a winner in our eyes!).

The range is sleep specialist approved by Alison Scott-Wright, best-selling author who loved the fact that children could do something positive and confidence building just before bed and for the littler ones to start to learn colours and also their left and right. They have received 5* reviews across the board since launching in 2018: “Gorgeous pyjamas that are totally unique with the matching cuffs that my daughter loves! The fabric is fantastic, and they wash well too.”

“Beautifully made in the most divine soft cotton fabric and a perfect fit. In fact, we loved them so much I’ve already ordered him a second pair.”

“I usually buy pyjamas from well-known luxury brands, but these are by far the best.”

Lister & Bruce are also launching matching sleepsuits in 2020 across all their prints after customers asked them to expand the range for babies. We can’t wait to see them and all the lovely sibling twinning photos – after all who doesn’t love a bit of matchy matchy! Well done ladies on such a fantastic brand and product, we look forward to seeing what you have planned for the future. With one Junior Design Award under their belt for best sleepwear collection in 2019, we’ve no doubt there will be more to come.

To order your own MyJamas visit www.listerandbruce.com, Helen and Claire have very kindly given our readers a 15% discount with the code Yummymummy15.

READER OFFER: SAVE

15%

“Gorgeous pyjamas that are totally unique with the matching cuffs that my daughter loves!”

Oh baby! Mother discovers ‘holy grail’ of eczema creams for her son which works in one hour

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mother who spent over £300 trying to find a way of easing her son’s eczema has revealed she has discovered the ‘holy grail’ of baby creams after it started working wonders in just one hour.

Charlotte Purdy says her son Felix, who was one in August, was diagnosed with a cow’s milk protein allergy when he was just four months old causing his skin to break out in terribly painful eczema on his ankles and in the creases of the back of his knees.

Doctors prescribed steroid creams for the eczema, but Charlotte, 26, from Tibshelf in Derbyshire says they made Felix’s skin condition worse so she tried numerous other high-street brands but nothing worked.

Then, thanks to her mum, she discovered a hypoallergenic dermatologically-tested baby cream

by Baby Kingdom Collection which she says ‘rescued’ Felix’s skin and started to clear it up within 60 minutes.

She said “My goodness, I don’t know what sort of magic they have conjured up in their factory, but the results are incredible. It has rescued his skin and

we’re so grateful. It’s like the holy grail of eczema creams.”

The Baby Kingdom Collection baby cream includes aloe vera, chamomile, nettle extracts, Vitamin E, coconut oil, shea butter, panthenol and caster, sweet and almond oils.

Charlotte said: “I decided I wanted to try more natural products. When I first put Baby Kingdom Collection on him, his skin was raised and bumpy but within an hour of administering you could see the difference.” www.babykingdomcollection.co.uk BEFORE

BABY CLOTHES WITH ZIPS

AFTER

Luxury 100% organic cotton pyjamas Award winning

Super soft & breathable for all year round wear 5* reviews Sleep expert approved Free standard UK delivery

www.zippyup.com

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HEALTH – helping you and your little ones stay healthy – i mage : PA R K SID E H O S P ITA L

YUMMY MUMMY

Guidelines on cervical screening are changing A

smear test (cervical screening) is when the health of the cervix (the opening to the womb from the vagina) is checked.

A sample of cells is taken form the cervix to look for abnormal cell changes. Abnormal cell changes if left untreated can lead to cancerous cells, which can potentially lead to cervical cancer.

Human Papilloma Virus or HPV is a group of viruses that infect the skin and cells lining the inside of the body. Some types of HPV can lead to cell changes in the cervix which can then lead to cancerous changes.

The UK National Screening Committee has recently changed its guidance and now recommends that patients should receive a high risk HPV (HRHPV) screening before smear testing. At present, the sample is taken in the same way as a smear test.

The changes have come about because a randomised controlled trial has shown that HRHPV is more sensitive than cytology (examination of cells under a microscope) at picking up potentially precancerous changes. So this is now thought to be better protection against cervical cancer.

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Once you’ve have had your screening test, if HPV is shown as negative, no further testing is needed at the time and your doctor will recommend when to have repeat screen.

However, if HPV results come back positive (HPV is found), then cytology is performed on the sample to determine why the results are abnormal.

If cytology is abnormal, the recommendation is that those patients will be referred for colposcopy.

Colposcopy is when the cervix can be looked at in more detail and samples can be taken from any abnormal areas and treatment can then be given if necessary.

These changes have come into effect in most private practices and in some areas of the NHS. HPV vaccine is currently offered to girls aged between 12 and 13 years on the NHS, and in now some areas the vaccine is also being offered to boys.

If the vaccine is missed you can still speak to your doctor about getting a vaccine.

To learn more about health screening, or to arrange a HPV test please contact the London General Practice on 020 7935 1000. www.thelondongeneralpractice.com

“These changes have come into effect in most private practices and in some areas of the NHS�

YUMMY MUMMY

D

New Mum MOT

uring pregnancy, labour and birth, a woman’s body undergoes significant changes. The pelvic floor and abdominal muscles have been stretched and the body is put under immense physical strain during childbirth.

These bodily changes can lead to problems such as pelvic girdle pain, rectus diastasis (tummy muscle separation), lower back pain and difficulty with bladder control. The New Mum MOT is a postnatal assessment designed to empower women back to fitness and activity with the aim of preventing the development of long term childbirth related issues.

It is important that women do not feel embarrassed to discuss any post-natal problems they may be experiencing or feel that there is no help available. At Parkside Hospital, our Women’s Health Physiotherapist specialises in the assessment and treatment of these specific post-natal problems.

They offer a supportive environment to discuss concerns, followed by a tailored assessment. With this information a goal and treatment plan will be developed taking into account your specific needs.

WHY HAVE A NEW MUM MOT? Many women feel they have unanswered questions after their 6 week check.

Such as: • Am I doing my pelvic floor exercises correctly?

• Can I do sit ups and the plank to help get my tummy back in shape?

• When can I return to my usual levels of exercise?

• Sometimes I leak when I cough or sneeze. Is this 6 8 dec 2 0 1 9 / jan 2 0 2 0

normal?

These are important questions and a New Mum MOT gives you an opportunity to put your mind at rest!

Research suggests that there will be a natural healing of a rectus diastasis up to 8 weeks postnatal; however there will be no further improvement without interventions such as physiotherapy after this period. A New Mum MOT will ensure you’re doing the correct exercises at the right time, avoid overloading the abdominal muscles which may delay healing and show you the right way of doing every day movements to prevent low back pain now and in the future.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE? • Core strengthening (1:1 or Pilates) • Soft tissue release • Manual therapy • Acupuncture • Hydrotherapy • Bladder retraining • Pelvic floor retraining • Neuromuscular stimulation and biofeedback • Prolapse treatment • Advice and reassurance The NEW MUM MOT assessment is normally recommended 6 weeks to a year after birth, however it’s never too late to make positive changes if you have suffered problems since giving birth, even if your child is now a teenager!

THE DETAILS For more information or to arrange an assessment, contact the Physiotherapy team at Parkside Private Hospital on 020 8971 8021 or email: physio@parkside-hospital.co.uk

YUMMY MUMMY

MAKING YOUR

GYM BAG MORE ECOFRIENDLY Save the planet while you sweat with Liz Connor’s pick of the best sustainable workout accessories

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ou’ve invested in a reusable coffee cup, you’re regularly separating your plastics in your rubbish and you’ve stopped splurging your paycheck on fast fashion.

Now, if only you could be so virtuous with your gym routine.

Working out is great for your health, but your quest for the perfect bod could be having a negative impact on the environment. Between reusable plastic bottles, throwaway wet kit bags and bargain priced leggings, there’s a lot you can do to trash the planet before you’ve even stepped foot on the treadmill.

Thankfully, gyms are making efforts to change the conversation: Chains like Barry’s Bootcamp and 1Rebel and have all gone plastic-free this year - but there’s still lots we can be doing on a micro level.

If you’re keen to get more sustainable while working up a sweat, switch to these green products to make your gym bag more friendly to the planet.

Lush Seanik Shampoo Bar This solid bar of shampoo does away with the need for the unnecessary plastic packaging that’s often lurking in most people’s toiletry bags. Made with seaweed, sea salt, jasmine oil and lemon, it has a refreshing citrus scent that’ll leave you feeling squeaky clean for the rest of the day. £7.50 for 55g, Lush.com

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Women’s Running Shoes These barefoot shoes have no unnecessary padding or cushioning and shy away from thick, stiff soles you often get in most running shoes. As well as being good for your feet, they’re a better choice for the planet too, as they’re made from natural, recycled and bio-based materials. This pair handily roll up into a ball and can be tucked away in your gym bag after a session. £100, Vivobarefoot.com

Asquith Flow With It Leggings The clothing industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, second only to oil. If you’re worried about how your activewear is made, invest a bit of extra money in a pair of organic leggings, produced in sweatshop-free conditions. This pair feel amazing on and are blended with bamboo and elastane to keep them soft and stretchy. £55, asquithlondon.com

Chilly’s Reusable Water Bottle One of the easiest things you can do to green up your act is switch to a reusable water bottle.

This one from Chilly’s keeps water cold for up to 12 hours and won’t leak in your bag. It comes in a range of cheery colours and designs, but we personally love the rose gold version. £25, chillysbottles.com

Manduka Eko Yoga Mat 5mm Nobody wants the destruction of the rainforest weighing on their mind when they’re lying in Chavasana. This yoga mat is made of natural, nonAmazon harvested tree rubber that will support both your practice and the planet. Namaste. £70, manduka.com 7 0 dec 2 0 1 9 / jan 2 0 2 0

use code YUMMYMUMMY15 and SAVE

15%

Perky Peach Activewear P

erky Peach is a British activewear brand.

Our aim is to make you feel powerful and amazing from studio to street all while helping reduce the plastic waste in our oceans. All our products are made from recycled plastics and bamboo. Our products are carefully designed in the UK with comfort and sustainability in mind, we have a passion for prints and colour and wanted to ensure our collection was colourful and bold but remained eco-friendly because of

this all of our prints are sublimation printed, this method uses less water and electricity than any other printing method. We are committed to developing our eco-friendly fabrics over the coming months and are always looking for new sustainable fabrics to develop our collections further. All our products are designed to be multi-functional, ideal to take you from a yoga class to a coffee catch up.

Visit perkypeach.com or follow @perkypeachofficial on Instagram

“Our products are carefully designed in the UK with comfort and sustainability in mind�

Preparing for baby, nervous about labour?

Hypnobirthing is Knowledge; Knowledge is Power

Hypnobirthing is logical, simple, practical and very effective. It is a complete antenatal education and a set of tools and techniques that women and their birth partners can use during pregnancy and labour. Whatever the birth hypnobirthing will make a difference, empowering both the mother and partner and has the most profound effect on the baby which will last a lifetime.

Book your space today.

Private Course | Group Course

elida@hypnobirthingandme.com | 07500 602900 www.hypnobirthingandme.com

info@perkypeach.com | Tel: 08452 414 244 14 Bull Street, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6HP www.perkypeach.com

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YUMMY MUMMY

K

ing Edward VII’s Hospital is an independent private hospital with a proud history of Royal Patronage and a reputation built on quality of care.

The Hospital provides an extensive range of treatments that can be self-funded, both surgical and medical, ranging from life-improving hip replacement surgery to life-preserving prostate cancer treatment. Self-paying patients are able to choose their specialist and avoid waiting lists, getting back to enjoying everyday life with as little disruption as possible.

Investment in the latest cutting-edge technology not only continues the Hospital’s tradition of attracting the best specialists, it also helps deliver the highest standards of diagnosis, treatment and aftercare to its patients.

The outstanding quality of nursing care has been the Hospital’s trademark for over 120 years and it’s what patients talk about long after they have gone home. What truly sets the Hospital apart is that it provides medical care with the human touch, where its focus never waivers from its patient.

What’s more, the Hospital is also a registered charity. Its charitable work includes providing life-changing medical treatment to veterans of the Armed Forces through its Centre For Veterans’ Health. Any surplus the hospital makes is invested back into facilities, equipment and the provision of subsidised treatment to veterans.

All this means that King Edward VII’s is the hospital of choice for self-paying patients who expect more. To enquire about paying for treatment, contact the dedicated patient services team at King Edward VII’s Hospital, 5-10 Beaumont Street, Marylebone, London W1G 6AA. www.kingedwardvii.co.uk; 020 7467 4344.

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Why King Edward VII’s is the hospital of choice for selfpaying patients

“The outstanding quality of nursing care has been the Hospital’s trademark for over 120 years and it’s what patients talk about long after they have gone home”

YUMMY MUMMY

Love your legs again

F

Treatment can be as easy as ABC:

or most women, the visible bodily changes of pregnancy are predictable such as weight gain and stretch marks.

One change however, that catches expectant mums off guard are varicose veins.

These are usually first noticed in late pregnancy and are typically blue coloured blood vessels that can start anywhere on the legs extending upwards or outwards. The appearance can vary from big, bulging blue veins to finer, spidery looking lesions.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

The tendency for varicose veins is inherited and therefore runs in families. It is a combination of genetics and mechanics that leads to this often distressing skin change: veins in our legs carry blood back up to the heart, to help with this function they possess valves that stop back flow of blood therefore, cleverly withstanding the effects of gravity.

As the baby grows and the pregnant tummy enlarges, this creates a bigger force for the veins to propel blood up against, resulting in the permanent collapse of veins valves. With the blood not actively moving out of the legs fast enough, this can result in: • The veins enlarging and becoming more visible.

• The legs becoming swollen and aching towards the end of the day.

• The skin overlying the veins becoming irritable causing itching and eczema • The skin around the ankles becoming discoloured or even developing ulcers in advanced cases 7 4 dec 2 0 1 9 / jan 2 0 2 0

Mr Paritosh Sharma Consultant Vascular Surgeon 108 Harley Street

The Details 108 Vascular Clinic 108 Harley Street London W1G 7ET To book an appointment contact our team on 0207 563 1234 info@108harleystreet.co.uk For further information, visit us at www.108harleystreet.co.uk

Although the appearance of veins and their symptoms can improve after the baby’s birth, this is not always the case. Veins can become more prominent and symptomatic.

Treatments for varicose veins are usually straightforward. These treatments have modernised significantly over the last 15 - 20 years and now usually involve a fairly straightforward laser procedure. Saying that, laser is not suitable for all patients. Depending on the underlying vein involved, other options for vein treatments may be more suitable, including injections of a chemical agent and the more conventional treatment, open surgery, to remove them.

Treatments are usually performed as a day case with the procedure lasting about 30-45 mins.

These procedures can be performed under local anaesthetic, with a degree of sedation or under a full general anaesthetic, tailored according to the treatment and patient choice.

Baby steps to recovery: Recovery following varicose veins surgery (whether it is laser or open) is short, with most patient returning to normal activities straightaway. Patients are usually required to wear stockings for a few weeks.

As we are treating blood vessels, inevitably these procedures do cause a degree of bruising but fortunately, this tends to settle fairly quickly and does not limit return to normal day to day activities.

YUMMY MUMMY

Anxiety in children Just like adults, children and young people feel worried and anxious at times. But if it is starting to affect their wellbeing, they may need some help to overcome it.

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hildren tend to feel anxious about different things at different ages. Many of these worries are a normal part of growing up. From about eight months to three years, for example, it’s very common for young children to have something called separation anxiety. They may become clingy and cry when separated from their parents. This is a normal stage in children’s development and tends to ease off at around age two to three.

It’s also common for pre-school children to develop specific fears or phobias. Common fears include animals, insects, storms, heights, water, blood, and the dark…and when starting at a new school.

These fears usually go away gradually on their own.

When is anxiety a problem for children?

Anxiety becomes a problem for children when it starts to get in the way of their day-to-day life.

Severe anxiety can harm children’s psychological and emotional wellbeing, affecting their self-esteem and confidence. They may become withdrawn and avoid situations that make them feel anxious.

What are the signs of anxiety in children?

When young children feel anxious, they cannot always understand or express what they are feeling.

You may notice that they become irritable, tearful, clingy or have difficulty sleeping or eating. They may wake in the night, start wetting the bed or have bad dreams. In older children you may notice a lack the confidence to try new things, find it hard to concentrate and prone to angry outbursts.

How to help your anxious child

If your child is experiencing anxiety, there is plenty you can do to help...It’s important to talk to your child. reassure them and show them you understand how they feel. Focus on exploring solutions with your child, and help them plan ways to cope with them.

With younger children... you could say, ‘I’ll take you to the party, knock on the door and talk to the mum or dad, then you can give your friend their present”.

Other ways to ease anxiety in children

Children of all ages find regular routines reassuring, so try to stick to regular daily routines where possible. If your child is anxious because of distressing events, such as a bereavement or separation, see if you can find books or films that will help them understand their feelings.

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Try not to become anxious yourself or overprotective.

Practice simple relaxation techniques with your child, such as taking three deep, slow breaths, breathing in for a count of three and out for three.

Distraction can be helpful for young children.

For example, if they are anxious about going to nursery, play games on the way there, this is a way of focusing attention away from internal anxiety and worries.

When should we get help?

If your child’s anxiety is severe and interferes with their everyday life, it’s a good idea to get some outside help. Some children do grow out of anxiety but, if it’s not addressed in childhood, it can continue. A visit to your GP is a good place to start.

If your child’s anxiety is affecting their school life, talk to their school as well.

Parents can get help and advice around children’s mental health from Young Minds’ free parent helpline on 0808 802 5544 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am-4pm).

“Practice simple relaxation techniques with your child, such as taking three deep, slow breaths, breathing in for a count of three and out for three”

YUMMY MUMMY

CHEF CLAIRE THOMSON ON GETTING YOUR KIDS FED

The cookbook author talks dinnertime chez Thomson

“T

he kitchen table is really important to me,” explains chef and author Claire Thomson.

“That the kids exist in the kitchen with me, and that it’s not some space that just makes food and washes up.”

The 5 O’clock Apron blogger and Instagrammer, whose latest cookbook New Kitchen Basics seeks to make cooking from scratch easy but exciting, knows all about cooking for kids. She has three daughters of her own (Grace, 11, Ivy, 9 and Dorothy, 6) and often has a lot more round for tea: “I find myself always with extra children, which is really funny.”

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Here are her tips for feeding kids - no matter how many you’re in charge of...

• Make the kitchen the place to be “We have a bench along the wall, that I can pop eight children’s bottoms on. If I can feed four, I can feed 10.”

• Don’t take any prisoners with fussy eaters (it helps if you’re a bona fide chef) “It’s just food and we’re really lucky to have the food that we eat, and also, I’m a chef and my husband is a chef, and I know that people would pay money to eat the food that I’m cooking - it’s delicious. So if they don’t like it, I’m just like, ‘Come on, you’ve got two chefs cooking for you. How can you not like this?’”

• Flexibility is a good thing “Grace is amazing, she’ll eat anything. She’s a vegetarian who likes to eat the odd piece of salami - I think that’s perfectly sensible. We’ve got a friend who’s a Spanish supplier and he brings us lovely salami and she’s like, ‘Oh I like this!’ But she won’t eat big chunks of meat, which is fine. Dot, my little one, is six, and she’d just eat an egg if I let her, and pesto pasta, but I just don’t let her, because that would be the root to madness.”

• They’re allowed to not like some things, but they ought to try them “They can have something they just don’t like; Ivy doesn’t like mushrooms. I don’t like Jerusalem artichokes, we’ll have that discussion, that’s fine.”

• Don’t be afraid to take your kids to restaurants with you “Eating out is important for children, it’s about being civil, learning manners, being polite.

Seeing the hospitality industry working hard is important.”

• They will survive without McDonald’s “[My kids] haven’t had one of those. I’d rather we go and eat falafel.”

• Sharing dishes all laid out on the table is a great way to eat as a family “How we eat at home is quite a few dishes on the table, often ambient temperature in the summer, that we just graze at and share.”

• Let them pick stuff out - just don’t do it for them “If one child likes the avocado but not the courgette, I’m OK with people picking bits out, and then incrementally all those flavours will just meld and one day they’ll go, ‘Oh there’s courgette, that’s quite nice’. Just be a bit laissez faire and relaxed

about it all. As long as they pick the bits out themselves - I’m not going to pick them out for them.”

• An early tea will mean less snacking after school “We mostly cook earlier on, because I don’t want the children to eat loads of crap when they get in from school. And they are starving when they get home!”

• Food is meant to be all mixed together - let them know that “I have no truck with that [kids not wanting certain foods to touch other ones]. Food’s much tastier mixed up. Even Grace my 11-year-old was saying to Dotty, ‘Oh it all just tastes the same anyway when you’ve mixed it all up in your mouth!’”

New Kitchen Basics by Claire Thomson, photography by Sam Folan, is published by Quadrille, priced £25. Available now.

YUMMY MUMMY

Party season is here:

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uying new shoes can be tricky — often they hurt, flare up pre-existing foot problems and have the potential to ruin a night out. Professor Ros Miller, renowned Foot and Ankle surgeon at King Edward VII’s Hospital, has some advice on picking the perfect party heels.

Consider the shape of the shoe If you suffer from foot problems – choosing the right shape of shoe can make a big difference.

A rounder toe with a wider fit will help if you have conditions like big toe arthritis (Hallux Rigidus), ball of foot pain (Metatarsalgia), toe problems (Hammer toes, Claw Toes), nerve pain (Morton’s Neuromas) or swelling of the capsule of the foot (Bursitis).

If you have bunions and wear a pointed shoe — this can make the pain worse. Make sure there’s room to manoeuvre.

What type of heel is best for your feet?

The higher and more narrow the heel, the more your body weight is forced forward onto the ball of your foot.

This can exacerbate any existing foot issues, particularly ball of foot pain or Morton’s Neuroma

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(this is where a nerve in your foot is irritated or damaged). It can also be uncomfortable if you struggle with heels anyway or rarely wear them.

High and narrow heels also mean more force is put through a small area in the heel of your foot. This can exacerbate plantar fasciitis — inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes.

Closely related is tight Achilles, which can be very painful if you develop an Achilles tendinopathy (Painful Achilles). If you always wear high heels, this can cause the Achilles tendon to become tight.

If you suffer from either foot or ankle problems, chose a heel which spreads the weight more evenly — such as a wedge, platform or lower-heeled shoe.

A broad heel helps you to take the weight back onto the back of your foot and let the tendons and ligaments around the ankle work more effectively.

Weak ankles If you have weak or torn ligaments outside of the ankle, you may be more likely to roll your ankles or have wobbly ankles when you walk. This can cause pain, or repeatedly going over on the ankle. Long term this can cause you to develop wear and tear of the ankle joint and in some cases ankle arthritis.

“If you suffer from foot problems – choosing the right shape of shoe can make a big difference”

are you wearing the right heels?

Boots are great for ankle niggles, as long as they come up above the ankle and fit properly. If they’re too loose or low, they won’t support the ankle. If you’re wearing dressy shoes, a reasonably thick ankle strap is your best bet — so that it can essentially mimic the ligament of the ankle.

Measuring for the perfect heel height If you want to get an idea of the heel height suitable for your feet, this quick exercise can give you a starting point: 1. Remove your shoes, sit on the floor and stretch one leg out, straight in front of you. Make sure your foot is relaxed.

2. If you find that your foot is at a right angle to your leg and does not dangle, then you may have issues with mobility in the talus (the bone that makes up the lower part of the ankle joint). You may be better off opting for some beautiful flat shoes, rather than high heels.

3. If the top of your foot falls forwards so that it’s more in line with your outstretched leg — heels may be easier for you to handle.

4. To get an idea of the right heel height for you, ask a friend to stretch a tape measure from where the heel would sit on your foot, parallel to the floor.

Then, place a pencil at the ball of your foot, at a right angle to the tape.

5. Measure where the pencil hits the tape to get your ideal heel height.

Ultimately, finding the right shoe is about finding a style that’s comfortable for you. Take these tips into consideration before parting with your cash and you’ll be partying from dusk till dawn.

“Boots are great for ankle niggles, as long as they come up above the ankle and fit properly.

If they’re too loose or low, they won’t support the ankle. If you’re wearing dressy shoes, a reasonably thick ankle strap is your best bet”

THE DETAILS If you are concerned about your feet, or you have received a diagnosis for a painful foot condition and are considering private treatment, call a member of the dedicated patient services team at King Edward VII’s Hospital to discuss your options: 020 7467 4344, Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm www.kingedwardvii.co.uk

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YUMMY MUMMY

Organic skincare for mother and baby

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ittle Butterfly London is an awardwinning luxury Ecocert organic-certified skincare brand for both mothers and babies created by Gudrun Wurm who, as a new mother, was inspired to create the range to nurture her newborn son’s delicate skin, giving him the best start in life whilst making their time together as magical as possible.

Gudrun had been passionate about skincare ever since she was young and went on to embrace the study of organic cosmetics after her son was born, immersing herself in the world of gentle plant actives and learning about ingredients that can nourish, soothe and protect all at once. The result of her studies is the UK’s first luxury organiccertified skincare range.

Created in London from carefully sourced ingredients throughout the UK, Little Butterfly London ensures that only the purest, safest and most effective ingredients are used across the range.

Whilst she was pregnant, Gudrun believed that whilst women’s bodies were working on creating magic, they also deserved to be cherished. She was

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passionate about creating products that could be mood-lifting and pleasurable and safe to use during pregnancy and breast-feeding, whilst being highly effective to deliver results.

For expectant mothers, the Cocoon of Bliss stretch mark cream is a must-have (£27.50 for 150ml). The unique and sumptuous award-winning blend of ingredients includes mango, cacao and shea to deeply nourish and optimise skin elasticity, while Manilkara leaf, argan, sea algae extract, rooibos and arnica flower help soothe and calm itchy skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

A ‘hero’ baby product is the Soft as Moonlight nappy changing cream (£25.50 for 50ml). It contains 18 natural ingredients including calendula, meadowsweet, oat kernel extract and a series of precious oils and butters, all of which combine to create a comforting and healing lotion which can prevent and soothe nappy rash. It also adds moisture to dry and sore patches of skin, which makes it the perfect handbag sized, go-to product.

The latest Little Butterfly product everyone is talking about is the Wrapped in Love calming anti-pollution face cream for babies (£27 for 50ml).

The perfect answer for an urban family, the cream acts as a barrier protecting delicate baby skin from harsh environmental pollutants, while also soothing and calming even the most sensitive of skins thanks to its unique anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant combination of organic ingredients. Suitable for newborn, eczema-prone, ultra-sensitive and reactive skin, this is the perfect face skin cream for every baby (and even mum too!).

For gift givers, Little Butterfly London also has a range of exclusive gift sets to cater to both mums and babies. We can’t think of a better gift to welcome a precious new baby into the world.

Check out the full range at www. littlebutterflylondon.com and at other leading retailers including Harrods.

“Created in London from carefully sourced ingredients throughout the UK, Little Butterfly London ensures that only the purest, safest and most effective ingredients are used across the range”