Yummy Mummy Magazine December '17/January '18 by Fish Media Group Ltd

Yummy Mummy magazine yummymummymagazine.co.uk

DECember/JANuary issue 19

The luxury parenting publication for discerning mothers living in London

Yummy Mummy magazine

FROM THE

EDITOR

ondon is a wonderful 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-do for the views alone. They are only open for a limited time so get your skates on before it’s too late! This festive season, Harry Potter fans are invited to experience Christmas time at Hogwarts and with their magical makeover for Hogwarts in the Snow, you can discover how film-makers created fire, ice and snow that never melts. PWR Events and The Royal Parks are delighted to announce that Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will be returning for its 11th year this winter. The event has become a must-do attraction for Londoners, visitors and tourists alike. The UK’s number one Christmas destination will host an array of new attractions and entertainment, as well as the return of many visitor favourites. If you’re pregnant and want to follow in the footsteps of the Duchess of Cambridge, you may be considering a home birth. One provider of home birth services, Private Midwives says it’s had a 44% increase in enquiries following the announcement that the Duchess is expecting her third child and reportedly wants to have the baby at home. Dolly Parton, 71, has been making music for over 50 years, so you’d think she’s done all there is. But this year, the singer decided to fulfil a long-time dream of making a children’s album. She spoke to Kerri-Ann Roper about why the album made her feel ‘young again’ and why she has no plans to retire any time soon.

Alex Lux Editor

THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

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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

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[ S H O P P IN G ]

BABIES & KIDS a pretty pot This pretty little trinket pot in the shape of a butterfly would make a lovely accessory on a dressing table. Just the right size to keep earrings, rings and small items in a safe place. 12.5cm x 8.5cm. £8, The Contemporary Home, www.tch.net

bedtime reading Illustrator Fiona Woodcock creates another magical children’s book suitable from ages 2 and up, following her debut book Hiding Heidi. Poppy and the Blooms stars four charming little characters, Poppy, Dandy, Bluebell and Buttercup. These wildflower children find that the last green space in the city is soon to be paved over and need to act fast. A truly colourful page turner as these zesty characters spread joy and brightness to the grey, lifeless streets. A story showing that small changes can make huge positive impacts - perfect bedtime reading that will leave you smiling!

SPECIAL DELIVERY FOR YOUR LITTLE ONES Gifts will look more enticing than ever this year with this beautiful range of personalised gift sacks. Lovingly handmade in the UK, each sack is made to order and measures a generous 80cm x 53cm – plenty of room for presents – and comes with a deep crimson ribbon to ensure the contents remain sealed until Christmas Day. Each personalised sack is priced at £22 . www.handmadechristmasco.com

TEETHING TIME Young babies love to grasp and chew, exploring new toys, sounds and textures. The ring teether toy is a great way to help them on their journey of discovery and is not only fun to play with but practical too. It combines beautiful soft fabrics in vibrant colours and comes in six fun animal designs. It crinkles when squeezed and features three rings that make a jingly noise, introducing baby to new sounds as well as colours and textures. Tiger Ringaling, Fiesta Crafts, www.fiestacrafts.co.uk

monkeying around Don’t be a messy monkey. Pick your socks and clothes up off the floor and stuff them into Monkey Laundry Bag. Hide your dirty laundry from view at home, or on holiday keep your dirty socks separate in your travel bag. Velcro hands allow Sock Monkey to hang anywhere. Zip close mouth contain evil odours. A huggable and hangable laundry hamper that’s a great gift for messy kids and messy grown-ups. Made from tough unbleached cotton canvas. Dirty Monkey Laundry Bag, £64, Smithers of Stamford www.smithersofstamford.com 4 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

CONTENTS OUT WITH THE KIDS

PREGNANCY, BIRTH & BABIES

FAMILY TIME

We bring you a round up of exciting events and things to do with the little ones Keeping you and baby happy and healthy throughout pregnancy and birth We’ve got everything covered from kids’ fashion to top parenting tips

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www.thelifemagazines.com

OUT WITH

THE KIDS – We bring you a round up of exciting events and things to do with the little ones – i mage : W INT E R W O ND E R L A ND

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GET YOUR SKATES ON THIS WINTER A guide to London’s coolest ice rinks

London is a wonderful 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-do for the views alone. They are only open for a limited time so get your skates on before it’s too late!

NEW FOR 2017! GREENWICH WINTERTIME FESTIVAL

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE WITH FORTNUM & MASON Open until 12 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Enjoy the perfect winter day out at Somerset House. Skate day or night with family and friends on London’s most beautiful ice rink. New for 2017 are Skate Lates, a programme of DJ music nights - the perfect start to your weekend. Warm up with wintry food and drinks in Fortnum’s Lodge, or watch the action rink-side from the Skate Lounge. The West Wing will once again transform into Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade. Learn to skate or perfect your skills with Skate School, and let little ones have a go on the ice at the Polar Cub Club. Book online at www.somersethouse.org.uk or call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 1520.

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND Open until 1 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Skate on the UK’s largest and most magical openair ice rink, set around Hyde Park’s picturesque Victorian bandstand. Once dark, the rink will be lit 1 4 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

with thousands of lights, accompanied by Christmas soundtracks to get you in the festive mood. Ideal for all ages and abilities, it’s a great family day out which the kids will love. Ice skating sessions tend to sellout in advance, especially at weekends and evenings, so booking ahead is highly recommended. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Experience the magic of skating on a bespoke, covered clear canopied ice rink in the historic courtyards of the Old Royal Naval College, on the banks of the River Thames. Each 3-hour session begins with an on-ice performance by world-class freestylers before becoming a public ice rink for you, your friends and family to enjoy. Greenwich Winter Time Festival also offers artisan food stalls, an independent lifestyle market, enchanting entertainment for all ages and the opportunity to visit Father Christmas! Visit www.greenwichwintertime.com for more details.

NEW FOR 2017!

ICE SKATING AT CANARY WHARF Open until 24 February 2018 (except Christmas Day)

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Open until 7 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Set against the stunning backdrop of one of London’s best-loved landmarks, the Natural History Museum Ice Rink is open throughout the winter period. The glistening ice rink which runs alongside South Kensington’s tree-lined streets will be topped off with a sparkling 30ft Christmas tree. Also, luxury chocolatier Hotel Chocolat will be serving their signature hot chocolate and other hot drinks for skaters to enjoy and indulge in. Calling all little ones looking to perfect their skating skills the penguin skate club will be running lessons for children aged four to eight. Visit www.nhmskating.com to book tickets.

SKATE AT THE ROYAL PALACE Open until 7 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) For an unforgettable festive experience, look no further than Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. The 1,040-square-metre outdoor ice skating rink offers spectacular views of the magnificent Tudor palace, where King Henry VIII once lived. There will be fun and excitement for all age groups and skating abilities, and The Ice Rink Café & Bar will offer a delicious winter menu and drinks including mulled wine, a selection of Champagne, Prosecco, wines and craft beers. And for little skaters there is a children’s menu that includes chicken drumsticks, chips, sausage baguettes and sweet treats. For more information visit www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

Set to the backdrop of Canary Wharf ’s twinkling towers and enchanting greenery, this spectacular outdoor ice rink is back and runs for sixteen magical weeks in the picturesque surroundings of Canada Square Park. Offering fun for all the family, new for this year will be a dedicated children’s skating area. Back by popular demand, the famous Ice Rink Canary Wharf skate path returns for 2017/2018 following a new route under the canopy of trees. Skaters can expect a few new surprises along the way this season with exciting new activities, including winter sports. If you want to eat, drink and shop all in one go, Canary Wharf is the place. For more information visit www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

TOWER SKATE Open until 2 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Ice skate in an unforgettable setting within the walls of the iconic Tower of London and take in the magic and ambience of the castle beside the Thames. There’s something for everyone whether you are a novice or an expert. Try the early morning sessions – perfect for little skaters and families, leading into picturesque afternoons and bustling evenings. The Tower of London Ice Rink gets an extra helping of stunning in the evenings when the lights, set against the castle wall adds to the dramatic jaw dropping views. For history with a modern twist, there’s no better winter location. For more details visit www.toweroflondonicerink.com

WINTERVILLE, CLAPHAM COMMON Open until 3rd January 2018 (except Christmas Eve & Christmas Day) Offering a completely different festive experience, Winterville also brings you the first ever ice rink on Clapham Common. The all-weather, outdoor rink is 600 square metres and constructed from real ice, and will be open seven days a week. And if gliding across the Common doesn’t appeal, then you can enjoy a winter warmer in the neighbouring cafe, where you can check out all the action in comfort. For more information visit www.winterville.co.uk

OPEN ON CHRISTMAS DAY! JW3 ICE RINK Open until 7 January 2018 including Christmas Day! A smaller venue but definitely needs a mention as it the only ice rink in London open on Christmas Day. With a skating area of 200m2 skaters can enjoy special events, glimmering lights, vibrant music and an electric atmosphere. For those who aren’t steady on the ice, helpful penguin stabilisers will be available and for less confident little ones, they can have fun on the seated banana toboggans. Kosher tasty treats are available at the in-house Zest café and restaurant, with hot chocolate, mulled wine, pizzas, doughnuts and more. 341-351 Finchley Road, NW3 6ET To book your tickets visit www.jw3.org.uk or call the JW3 Box Office on 020 7433 8988.

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YUMMY MUMMY

Flat Space Art:

why is it important to invest in art for your family? With only three weeks until Christmas, Flat Space Art top picks has it covered for her, for him, for the children, from the first time collector to the avid art enthusiast.

Flat Space Art and Design Founder of Flat Space Art, Luiza Gibb is a passionate advocate of art. Director of Vernissage, Luiza manages the artist representation and exhibition schedule for all represented artists and works closely with collectors and interior designers to build sales. Flat Space Art works both with up and coming, and established artists. A passionate, busy mother of three herself, she is often seen at the Notting Hill school gates, balancing motherhood alongside running her company.

Investing in Art An effective art investment lasts for a lifetime. Luiza is a great believer in making art a family experience. As the Arts Council states, ‘Involvement with arts and culture is crucial to imagination, self-expression and creativity in young people. It also develops the skills that fuel the success of the UK’s creative industries, and that will result in the next generation of creative talent across the country.’ Our children are the future and we must provide for them. We are all very invested in our children’s education, it is critical that we invest in art for our families.

‘Invest in art, art is for life - The gift, that keeps on giving.’ “the party” claire westwood 42 x 48 cm

‘‘Bailadora II’’ Alisa Rawls 56 x 71 cm

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‘‘Holly Golightly in Prada’’ Laura Gulshani 46 x 61 cm

Where to Buy? As well as the Flat Space Art website, we are approved dealers for Artnet, Artsy, 1st Dibs and Go The List (in Dubai) and regularly hold events and masterclasses with the Soho House Group.

‘‘50 / fifty’’ Jessica Bush 91 x 91 cm

About the Artists Gulshani is a fashion illustrator whose illustrations have graced the covers of Vogue, Marie Claire, Burberry and many other notables. Bauman is a landscape painter collected by Saatchi, Gordon Ramsay, Deutsche Bank, The Dorchester Collections. Bauman’s interest lies not in narrative but in form defined by light.

“Winged Hares, Hedghogs and Dormouse - Blue’’ Wallpaper Frederick Wimsett for Flat Space Art and Design.

“Golden Triptych’’ Lydia Bauman 90 x 210 cm

These platforms require a worldrenowned presence in the art market of which Flat Space Art is certified of being one of the most important galleries. At Flat Space Art we give a clear route from a first-time buyer to an avid art enthusiast, on how to invest in emerging artists to the established artist. Each Flat Space Art artist has gone up significantly in value in the last 2 years. We are based in Notting Hill and host regular events, check our website and social medias for updates. Email: Luizagibb@flatspaceart.com for all sales enquires, and or, to receive your free copy of our ‘The Big Christmas Guide’ and ‘Guide to Collecting and Investing in Art.’

Our social media: Instagram @FlatSpaceArt Twitter @FlatSpaceArtUK YouTube @FlatSpaceArt Facebook facebook.com/flatspaceartuk Website www.flatspaceart.com

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YESTERDAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD Playforever - perfect presents to be treasured for generations

ulian Meagher had an early fascination with the beauty and magic of classic vehicles which sparked a lifelong ambition to create a collection of timeless heirloom toys, a collection that would delight and captivate generations to come, children and grown ups alike. Drawing inspiration from iconic racing cars and fighter planes from the 1920s, combined with decades of researching and studying technical car design and automotive styling, the Playforever collection of Midis, Minis and Mavericks is an eclectic mix of art, fashion, traditional design and modernism. Playforever use childfriendly, soft-roll rubber wheels and long-lasting, UV-resistant paint, never compromising on detail or quality.

1188 DDEECCEEMB MBEERR 22001177//J JAANNUUAARY RY 22001188

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Christmas at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London T

Until Sunday 28th January 2018

his festive season, Harry Potter fans are invited to experience Christmas time at Hogwarts – and with their magical makeover for Hogwarts in the Snow, you can discover how film-makers created fire, ice and snow that never melts! Visitors have the opportunity to see the Harry Potter film series’ most iconic sets decorated for festive scenes. The Great Hall has been transformed, the Gryffindor common room is dressed for the season and a blanket of filmmaking snow has been meticulously applied to the majestic Hogwarts castle model. Visitors can also touch samples of the different types of ‘snow’ used during production, each selected for its ability to float like falling snow, crunch under foot or glisten

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in the light like ice. For the first time ever, the Great Hall stage is decorated as it was for the iconic Yule Ball. As seen in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the celebration of the Triwizard Tournament saw every detail of the Great Hall covered in shimmering silver, dripping icicles and sparkling snow. Visitors to the Studio Tour get a taster of this incredible set dress as the top section of the Great Hall is transformed with snow-covered Christmas trees, icicles and an orchestra of magical instruments. Conducted by Professor Flitwick, the orchestra is made up of musical instruments painted by the Prop-Making department to match the silver of the Yule Ball. On display in the centre of the Great Hall sits one of the beautiful Yule Ball sculptures. Inspired by the Brighton Pavilion, the sculptures were cast from resin and surrounded by mounds of imitation ice on which sat an array of refreshments for guests. In addition to the Yule Ball decoration, The Great Hall is lined with Christmas trees and the long dining tables dressed as they were for seasonal feasts at Hogwarts, with prop versions of roast turkeys, hams studded with cherries and even Christmas puddings surrounded by real flames.

green screen technology flying a broomstick over London and step into the Forbidden Forest all before marvelling at the breath-taking miniature scale model of Hogwarts castle. The Studio Tour has been well received with 96% of the 30,000+ reviews on TripAdvisor rating it as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Very Good’. Tickets must be pre-booked at www.wbstudiotour.co.uk or by calling the Studio Tour’s Visitor Services Team on 0345 084 0900. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, WD25 7LR

“As part of the Hogwarts in the Snow feature, many of the iconic sets housed at the Studio Tour have received a festive makeover”

As part of the Hogwarts in the Snow feature, many of the iconic sets housed at the Studio Tour have received a festive makeover. The Gryffindor Common Room and Boys’ Dormitory is decorated with the original props including handmade Christmas cards, some of which were created by the cast members during production. Fireplaces throughout the Studio Tour (including those in the Leaky Cauldron and Great Hall) are ‘lit’ with special effects fire, created by John Richardson and the SFX team using a combination of water vapour and lighting effects. The unique attraction offers visitors the ultimate chance to get up close to authentic sets, discover the magic behind spellbinding special effects and explore the behind-the-scenes secrets of the Harry Potter film series.Visitors are able to explore the original Great Hall, experience D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8 2 1

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Meet Santa at ZSL London Zoo Sprinkle some extra magic over the festive season this year, by journeying through the animal kingdom to Meet Santa at ZSL London Zoo. Sunday 17th – Sunday 24th December 2017

rom 17 – 24 December, children can visit Santa’s grotto in the heart of the Zoo, where they can make Christmas cards and decorations with Mrs Claus, join in a jolly sing-along with Santa’s helpers and take home a festive family portrait and special gift. Dashing through the Zoo’s very own fairy-lit winter wonderland, little ones can also visit the elf workshop, where they can help make Christmas stockings for some of the Zoo’s animals to enjoy. ZSL London Zoo is also hosting an extra special VIP Meet Santa experience: from Thursday 21 to Sunday 24 December, guests will get exclusive access to the Zoo before it opens to the public. They’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast with Mrs Claus at the Zoo’s Terrace Restaurant, before being whisked away by helpful elves to Meet Santa and help feed his herd of reindeer.

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After sharing their Christmas wishes with Santa himself, families can enjoy the rest of their very merry day exploring the Zoo and discovering more about the hundreds of species that call it home, including other yuletide animals like donkeys, camels and penguins. Funds raised from Meet Santa will help international conservation charity ZSL (Zoological Society of London) continue its work for wildlife around the world - to ensure no one has to imagine a world without wildlife. 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/meetsanta. Places are limited and selling out fast - advanced booking is necessary. ZSL London Zoo, Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, London, NW1 4RY

“Funds raised from Meet Santa will help international conservation charity ZSL”

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Style, Comfort & Quality

aunched this summer, Cocoon Child was founded and managed by Buckinghamshire-based Laura Rolf and is supported by her two sisters, Olivia and Georgia, based in London and Sydney, Australia, respectively. The children’s lifestyle brand is inspired by their shared love of travel, passion for adventure and memories of days when the family holidays meant long days of freedom, adventure and play and every item in the Cocoon Child collection encapsulates that timeless sunshine vibe whilst delivering style, comfort and quality all year round. As a global family, they are constantly looking for new trends, styles and stand out brands from both sides of the world, to add to their growing childrenswear collection which already includes curated selections from some of their favourite brands from Bali, Australia, California, Finland, Spain, France, The Netherlands and of course England. These include Rylee & Cru, Fallen Broken Street, Veja, Papu, Hundred Pieces, Kidsagogo Bali, Bandy Button, Hello Simone, Tootsa, Bonnie Mob

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and Beach and Bandits, meaning that you no longer need to spend hours scoring the web to find those unique pieces for your children’s wardrobe, Cocoon Child now brings the brands to you through one simple destination that makes the shopping experience easy, with detailed product descriptions, reviews, free delivery on an over £50 spend and a money back guarantee if you are less then 100% satisfied. With big plans for 2018 including a new mobile pop up shopping experience, the launch of the Cocoon Child Concept and more exclusive launches from brands in Australia, Japan and Europe, they are definitely an exciting company to watch. Don’t miss their first charity collaboration this winter, which they are doing with Fallen Broken Street hats, from Byron Bay, Australia, where £5 (plus VAT) from the sale of every hat, both children’s and adult’s is donated to Children with Cancer UK.

Find out more:

www.cocoonchild.com www.instagram.com/ cocoon.child www.facebook.com/ cocoonchildkidswear www.twitter.com/ cocoonchild_ Contact: laura@cocoonchild.com

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KidZania London The indoor city run by kids!

t KidZania London children aged 4 – 14 years can explore more than 60 real-life activities. Spanning across 75,000 square feet, KidZania London is a child-size city located in Westfield, Shepherd’s Bush where the kids are in charge! Have your kids ever dreamt of becoming a pilot, a firefighter or the next award-winning singer? Roleplay has long been a favourite past-time of children through the generations. Watch the excitement on their faces as they try out more than 60 real life roleplay activities in the bank, on stage or fighting crime on the streets as a police officer! Visit KidZania this festive season, as the indoor city built for kids brings Christmas to life from across the world. Celebrating global traditions, kids will experience how children from other countries celebrate this magical time of year. Follow the map throughout the City to learn fun facts about each country’s unique traditions. From the Christmas markets and ‘AdventsKranz’ in Germany, to India’s celebration of ‘Christmas Baba’, young visitors can follow the trail, stopping at the new Christmas carts on a fun journey through the festive traditions of Mexico, China, Italy, Australia, India, UK and Ethiopia. 2 6 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

KidZania London will take on a seasonal twist, with activities including festive ‘Frozen’ face painting at the Snazaroo painting studio and a Christmas parade around the City. New partner on board Just Dance will also be taking over the Dance Studio to launch the 2018 version of the Just Dance game. Children can learn new moves to some of the classic Christmas songs! KidZania has also welcomed two new exciting activities. The WWE Academy is a fully branded experiential space within the city where children will learn how to create their own WWE Superstar characters using a selection of props and costumes or dress up as an existing WWE Superstar. Middlesex County Cricket club have created a new mini Home of Cricket, designed and created to look just like the real thing – providing youngsters with the opportunity to take part in the game, get active, have fun and learn life lessons such as the importance of teamwork, nutrition, healthy lifestyle and good sportsmanship through playing cricket in a replica of the games’ most inspirational venue. There is so much to do at KidZania, book online and save at www.KidZania.co.uk

“Have your kids ever dreamt of becoming a pilot, a firefighter or the next awardwinning singer?”

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unveils its top 10 Christmas toys for 2017

he most famous toy store in the world has revealed its highly regarded annual prediction of the big toys for this festive season. INTERACTIVE robots and tech toys are set to dominate your children’s Christmas letters this year, according to Hamleys…. Top of the list is Tyler the playful tiger - a cute little cub which responds to petting and talking in over hundred different ways. Pet his head and his eyes might close, pet him on his muzzle and he moves. The toy is pretty much the robotic alternative to a cat but comes with a hefty price tag of £135. Suitable for age 4+ Also predicted to be a hit amongst younger kids is the Fisher Price Dance & Move Beatbox, selling for £33. The toy will teach toddlers songs and dance moves at the touch of a button. He will introduce baby to letters, colours, numbers and much more. Suitable for age 2+ Thanks to the imminent release of the latest Star Wars film, the LEGO BB-8 has climbed back to the top, giving children the chance to interact with their favourite robot – also keeping LEGO in the top ten for another year. The robot is available to buy at £85. Suitable for age 10+. Barbie is making a comeback with her Dream Horse figurine which reacts to touch and features more than 30 realistic reactions. The horse can also nod yes or no when you ask a question, play three different songs and show off with three different dances. The interactive animal alone will cost you £90. The ever-popular Nerf Gun is back with a £22 Nitro Longshot version, allowing children to design long-distance jumping challenges with the longjump ramp and obstacles. The pack includes blaster, long-jump ramp, two foam cars with plastic wheels, four obstacles, and instructions. Suitable for age 5+.

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Also set to be popular is the ultimate villain, Megazord from the Power Ranger’s film, which can be bought as an interactive figurine. The toy has eight features including: expandable wings, cannon and sword, battle and flight sounds, lights in the head and feet for enhanced realism, a light-up “Morphin Grid,” and five individual cockpits for each included ranger figure. Suitable for age 4+ The interactive Luvebella toy is manufactured by Spin Master - the company behind last year’s festive season sell-out, Hatchimals. The doll responds to affection, falls asleep, giggles and talks, and is available to purchase for £100 Hatchimals swept the boards last year and have proven their popularity again as the latest Egg Surprise proves to be a must-have toy of the season. This mysterious egg literally hatches on its own into an interactive toy. The latest version which cost £75 comes with a pair of twin Hatchimals. Each creature will have its own personality and they can also interact with each other. Kids can raise them from baby to toddler to kid and they’ll learn new things at each stage. Get A Grip, is a family game which challenges kids and adults to perform a series of increasingly difficult tasks without using their thumbs.First, players wrap their thumbs in the included hand bands so that they can’t use them. Then a player picks a card that will tell them to Draw it, Sculpt it, or Do it - all without the use of these important body parts The game is the cheapest item on the list and it might be a good way to get your kid to drop their iPhones. Victoria Kay, Head Buyer at Hamleys says: “We’ve seen a lot of tech for tech’s sake in the past few years with app extensions, but now, whether it’s a plush or a more sophisticated LEGO build, they are getting smarter in how kids can personalise and programme them.” For more information visit www.hamleys.com. 188-196 Regent Street, W1B 5BT

Tyler the Playful Tiger

“Thanks to the imminent release of the latest Star Wars film, the LEGO BB-8 has climbed back to the top”

From top: Hatchimals Egg Surprise Fisher Price Dance And Move Beatbox; LEGO BB-8

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Andre Van Nierop, Urgent Care Centre Clinical Lead in Casualty First

ndre van Nierop, Clinical Lead, in the walk-in urgent care centre Casualty First ensures that patients and families receive first class care 7 days a week, from 8am-8pm. Andre, and the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth set up Casualty First 5 years ago, he comments, “The urgent care centre is truly unique in that our team of A+E Doctors provide care for adults and children from the age of one year, we see patients instantly and provide diagnosis and treatment on the same day. I’m proud to say that our average waiting time in now only 8 minutes!”

diagnosed serious conditions and been able to refer next or same day treatment, which in some cases has potentially been life saving due to early diagnosis. It is so rewarding to see the difference that it makes.” “A large amount of the patients we see are children, we provide treatment from the age of one and our child friendly waiting area and consulting rooms disperse any anxiety the kids might have from seeing a doctor. I see worried and concerned parents come in to see us who within minutes are able to see a doctor and the children, and their parents, are smiling and laughing again.”

Putting patients needs first

Visit Casualty First

Casualty First provides an ease of access to treatment that is essential when you are juggling a busy schedule, Andre explains “The urgent care centre is a fantastic facility for people to access our first class care, with no waiting time and the option to receive treatment on the same day or at a convenient time. We often refer patients to see a specialist Consultant or receive imaging and diagnostics on site, in the state of the art hospital facilities” “We have seen patients come in with minor complaints, where after our investigation we have

Located at the entrance of the world famous Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth in London, Casualty First is a self pay service with treatment available for all the family, including children from the age of one year. The experienced A&E doctors treat all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses. If you think you are having a heart attack, stroke or have serious head injuries please phone 999 or go to A&E. www.casualtyfirst.co.uk; 0207 432 8300; Open 8am – 8pm everyday; 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH

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“We see patients instantly and provide diagnosis and treatment on the same day. I’m proud to say that our average waiting time in now only 8 minutes!”

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Until Monday 1st January 2018 (closed on Christmas day)

WR Events and The Royal Parks are delighted to announce that Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will be returning for its 11th year this winter. The event has become a must-do attraction for Londoners, visitors and tourists alike. The UK’s number one Christmas destination will host an array of new attractions and entertainment, as well as the return of many visitor favourites. The UK’s largest outdoor Ice Rink will be located around the picturesque Victorian bandstand. The rink stretches over 1,600m² with live music playing day and night as skaters take to the ice. The Magical Ice Kingdom returns with a new theme ‘Deep Sea Adventure’ featuring an awe inspiring underwater journey of myth and mystery, made completely from snow and ice. Family favourite, Zippos Circus, will be back with their brand new daytime show ‘Zippos Christmas Circus’ and an all-new evening performance of ‘Cirque Berserk’ showcasing jaw-dropping aerial stunts, motorbikes on high wire, spectacular trapeze and concludes with a must-see finale. New for 2017/18, The Imperial Ice Stars presents a new interpretation of the classic tale with Cinderella on Ice, featuring world-class ice skating. The captivating show combines powerful storytelling with elegant choreography to bring a modern twist to this treasured fairy tale favourite. A must for those who want to watch the action from above, the iconic Giant Observation Wheel will once again illuminate London’s skyline, offering spectacular views. A highlight for young children, The Sooty Christmas Show will see the nation’s

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much loved bear making a reappearance with a brand new Christmas show. For those wanting to soak up the festive atmosphere, the Angels Christmas market will feature over 150 chalets and offers a wide range of unique gifts. No festive day out would be complete without Father Christmas. Santa Land is an enchanting experience for young visitors and gives families the chance to meet Santa and his elves, as well as explore the inside of his toy workshop. Bar Hütte will make its London debut at this year’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Creating a mini village of Alpine huts in the heart of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, this unique take on ‘Alpine Après Ski’ offers visitors an exclusive and festive get-together venue for karaoke (or Carol-oke since it’s Christmas!) and cocktails. The hüttes can be enjoyed by friends, Christmas parties and families alike. For the last 10 years, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has been hugely popular with members of the Royal family and the celebrity crowd. Guests who have been spotted enjoying the festivities have included: Duchess of Cambridge & Prince George, David & Brooklyn Beckham, Simon Cowell, Mel C, Nicole Scherzinger, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Caroline Flack, Elle Macpherson, Tom Cruise, Elizabeth Hurley, Amanda Holden and David Cameron. For more details and to purchase tickets for the Ice Rink, Magical Ice Kingdom, Cinderella on Ice, Bar Ice, Giant Observation Wheel, Zippos Christmas Circus, Cirque Berserk & The Sooty Christmas Show, visit www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

“The UK’s largest outdoor Ice Rink will be located around the picturesque Victorian bandstand”

Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ winterwonderlanduk Twitter: @WinterWonderLDN Instagram: @WinterWonderLDN Times: 10am – 10pm daily

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A World Away Discover the stunning North Cornwall coast in 2018 and stay in the holiday home of your dreams with a John Bray Cornish Holiday.

hether it’s a beach front pad, clear turquoise seas. a cosy cottage just for two, a And once you’ve had your fill of fresh Cornish countryside retreat where the kids air, rinsed your sandy toes and sunkissed shoulders, can really run free, or a spacious there’s the food to try! With more michelin stars character property with jaw dropping sea views, than you can shake a stick at, foodies are more you can bet that John Bray Cornish Holidays has than catered for in this unique corner of North the house of your dreams among their portfolio of Cornwall. TV stars like Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth, self-catering holiday homes. Nathan Outlaw and James Nathan have all adopted A specialist holiday letting agency, John Bray the area, inspired by the natural bounty. Cool has been holiday letting & managing cafes and beach bars abound and there’s properties in Rock, Daymer Bay, always a beach BBQ or salty fish & Polzeath & Port Isaac in North chips to be had. Book your Cornwall since 1971. Since each A holiday in North Cornwall 2018 Cornish holiday home is privately owned, demands a slower pace of life, where Holiday online from there is a fantastic choice of the morning commute is a gentle 1st December 2017. interiors, facilities and experiences stroll across the beach with your to be had in these premium beloved pooch, or a short water taxi locations. ride to Padstow for Rick Stein’s fish and These stunning holiday hotspots offer chips and a cycle down the camel trail. It’s a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages, a chance to recapture that elusive family getaway so it’s no surprise that holiday makers flock to and wind back the clock of time. this area of outstanding natural beauty for their If you’re looking for a short break or a family downtime of choice. Everything’s on offer holiday that’s more than memorable, try John Bray from swimming and surfing, sailing and Cornish Holidays. waterskiing, cycling and golf to peaceful and www.johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk; scenic coastal walks, golden sandy beaches and 01208 863206

“These stunning holiday hotspots offer a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages”

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How can I keep my children safe on the ski slopes? P

arents main concern is the safety of their children on the piste. All ski schools have a minimum of one instructor per group of only eight children, on average. Families who would like to experience skiing off piste should learn with an experienced instructor. You should never ski on your own off piste and if you did want to take your children off piste you should ensure they are of a high standard, and have an understanding of the snow conditions and an awareness of avalanche danger, and are carrying the correct safety equipment.”

“It’s very difficult to teach your own children to ski”

What to take on the piste with you?

Skiing as a family for the first time

Skiing burns a lot of energy so ensure you take snacks for all the family out with you for the day. Take a back pack when skiing with the family. If there is one time you can feel guilt free about giving children sugar and chocolate it’s when you are skiing, because you know they are going to burn it straight off. Always ski with water as well, its thirsty work skiing all day. Ski schools in France are offered to children from five years old, and ski schools in Austria are from four years old. Encourage children to get on the slopes at a young age. This depends on the child though when leaving them in a ski school, if the child doesn’t mind being left alone and they tend to get on with other children.

Skiing as a family and taking the little ones for the first time can be a daunting experience as there are so many things to consider… 1: Choose a family-friendly resort that has a good selection of nursery slopes available – some resorts don’t have these, and you don’t really want to be teaching your kids to ski for the first time on a busy run with other skiers whizzing by. 2: Consider your kids ability and what size of resort is suitable for their level. You don’t want them heading across the mountain and ending up in another country – which is possible in a number of resorts! 3: Ensure that the hotel/resort you are staying in is easily accessible to the slopes. If not, you’ll have to carry all the family’s equipment to and from the hotel and the pistes. Lugging your own skis and poles, as well as the children’s kit is not fun. 4: It’s very difficult to teach your own children to ski – even if you are a very capable skier. Kids tend to be more receptive to someone else teaching them so put them in a reputable ski school which means your children can keep progressing to even greater thrills in complete safety. 5: Don’t give young kids ski poles. They don’t need them, they’ll probably lose them and when learning, the poles will just be a distraction to learning technique with the skis.

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LUXURY HOLIDAYS FOR ALL

onnoisseur Travel was founded in 1994. Their efforts to strive to provide the very best and to always go the extra mile for all their clients is their company ‘Mission’. The level of success the company has achieved being evident in the many clients that choose Connoisseur Travel as a direct result of commendations made by satisfied clients who still today entrust all their travel arrangements and vacation plans to Connoisseur Travel. Your holiday needs careful planning and consideration. Whether it’s the excitement of a safari, an adventure in South America, the mystique of the Far East or the lure of relaxation on a beach with your family, Connoisseur Travel can recommend the destination to suit you, your partner and family.

“The company’s experts will share their worldwide knowledge of destinations, climate and culture” The company’s experts will share their worldwide knowledge of destinations, climate and culture to Initially the Company specialised in weddings and tailor-made honeymoon destinations. Personal recommendations and expertise in the honeymoons market resulted quickly to bookings coming in nationwide and overseas. And, with their reputation for personalised travel planning, the Company soon expanded its horizons, providing luxury specialist worldwide travel tailored not only to honeymooners but to all discerning travellers. Over the years they 3 8 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

have developed their market for providing family holidays – from the very young to teenagers. Some of their clients are original honeymoon couples who now, with their growing families, entrust Connoisseur Travel to source and tailor their family holidays. Being independent, Connoisseur Travel works with a carefully selected number of tour operators which enables the company to be able to offer genuine choices and unbiased holiday advice. They will discuss your tailor-made holiday dreams with you and then produce exactly what you are looking for. Instead of a general glossy printed brochure, their website is designed to outline what they can achieve for you. They take the pain out of planning your holiday yourself, and help you realise your dream with minimum effort on your part and maximum effort on theirs! Each and every travel itinerary they organise is unique, based on the client’s individual requirements. Their specialists are available to you before, during and after your travels, and always available to serve you exclusively. If you would like professional help planning your next holiday or trip of a lifetime, Connoisseur Travel would very much like to speak with you to offer their impartial advice on any worldwide destination. So let Connoisseur Travel make your next travel experience one of unsurpassable ease. Their dedication and enthusiasm combined with their friendly service guarantees you the relaxing tailormade holiday you deserve! Please call 01403 272 143; email info@connoisseurtravel.co.uk; www.connoisseurtravel.co.uk All travel is covered by fully bonded ABTA/ ATOL/IATA tour operators

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TICKETS Attraction tickets prices on the door £27.50 (adult), £22.00 (children), book in advance online to save up to 30%.

Santa’s landed in Far Far Away!

Enter the swampy grotto only at Shrek’s Adventure! London, until 24th December 2017

ingle Bells, Ogre Smells... Santa’s landed in the swamp. This month bring your kids to an experience they’ll never forget, as they enter a brand new magical grotto only at DreamWorks Tours: Shrek’s Adventure! London. This unique Shrektactular themed grotto brings the festive season to life in the heart of Far Far Away! Santa has crash landed in Shrek’s swamp but before he heads off to spread the joy on the 24th December – he has a Shrektastic gift for those coming to visit.

“The grotto at Shrek’s Adventure! London gives your little ones the chance to meet two much loved characters all in one place!”

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The grotto at Shrek’s Adventure! London gives your little ones the chance to meet two much loved characters all in one place! Guests will head on a magical, madcap experience through Far Far Away which ends with the chance to meet Shrek, before heading into the Grotto to meet the man himself… Santa! Visitors should keep their eyes peeled as there will be a host of surprises while guests are waiting to meet Santa and each child will receive a gift. Tickets for the grotto are only £4.70 advanced online and £5 on the day and must be purchased with a ticket to Shrek’s Adventure! London – where they will enjoy an amazing animation, a magical 4-D bus experience, captivating story-telling and a good dose of Donkey’s cheekiness awaits. Pre-booking is essential for the Christmas period as this is a magical combination not to be missed. Book your tickets today: www.shreksadventure.com/london

Grotto tickets cost £5 on the door and £4.70 online. They must be purchased alongside tickets to Shrek’s Adventure! London. Shrek’s Adventure! London is located on the South Bank close to Waterloo and Westminster station.

GROTTO OPENING DATES Sunday 10th December 2017 Saturday 16th December 2017 Sunday 17th December 2017 Then every day until Sunday 24th December 2017

DREAMWORKS TOURS SHREK’S ADVENTURE! LONDON Shrek’s Adventure! London is the capital’s newest family attraction, combining live action, stunning iconic sets and exclusive DreamWorks animation. Guests of all ages are whisked away on a 4D magic bus tour with Donkey as their driver before crashlanding in Shrek’s swamp where a fantastic, immersive adventure awaits. Familiar characters from the Shrek franchise greet guests along the way before everyone’s favourite ogre welcomes them back to London alongside the rest of the DreamWorks gang including characters from How to Train your Dragon and Madagascar.

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Private GP Surgery at Parkside Hospital P

arkside Hospital’s long-standing aim has always been to be your friendly local hospital on Wimbledon Common. An aim which is supported by over 300 specialist consultants, available to see you with little or no waiting. Recently they have further expanded their services and have introduced a new Private GP Surgery to meet the needs and requirements of the local community. As healthcare specialists with over 30 years of experience, they understand that when you’re not quite feeling yourself or you have a healthcare worry, you want to be seen quickly and at a time convenient to you. To accommodate this demand they have launched a Private GP Surgery with a team of highly experienced GPs who are available 6 days a week, with the ease of access to any tests, x-rays and further diagnostics.

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Parkside’s Private GP Surgery is available to anyone, whether you’ve previously attended the hospital or not. The beauty of their Private GP consultation is that they offer you the choice and flexibility to access the service as a one-off or regularly, and offer more time to discuss your concerns. Their Private GPs can provide all the medical care you would expect to receive from your NHS GP, with the additional reassurance that you will be seeing a highly experienced doctor for an appointment that will be confidential, convenient and not rushed. In addition any investigations, prescriptions or onward referrals to their specialist consultants can be conveniently completed under one roof. For more information or to book an appointment call 020 8971 8026 today.

“Parkside’s GP Surgery is available to anyone, whether you’ve previously attended the hospital or not”

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FINE DINING WITH The days of fine dining in the most elegant restaurants in London diminish when you have kids - OR DOES IT?

any of London’s coolest restaurants are surprisingly accommodating to children, so get the kids together and check out some of the most trendiest eateries in London for your family.

lunchtime crèche for kids aged 2 years – 12 years old. It’s supervised by fully qualified staff so you can finish off your meal whilst the kids play. 135 Portland Road, London W11 4LW Tel: 020 7229 8331/020 7727 4585

Sticky Fingers, Kensington

Bubba Gump Shrimp

Aptly named, Bill Wyman’s much loved steak and ribs restaurant has a children’s menu titled ‘Sticky Little Fingers’ It caters for kids under 12 years old, and you can’t get more child-friendly than with any meal your little one gets a soft serve vanilla ice cream cone or tub! 1A Phillimore Gardens, London, W8 7QB Tel: 020 7938 5338

Give the little ones a taste of America’s Deep South at this Forrest Gump themed restaurant in the historic ‘Trocadero’ building. Bubba Gump Shrimp serves kids’ favourites such as popcorn shrimp, chicken strips and macaroni cheese as part of its children’s menu; while, for dessert, they can even build their own sundae from delicious sweet treats. 13 Coventry Street, London, W1D 7AB Tel: 0203 763 5288

Julies, Holland Park The ultimate in child friendly. Aside from its great menu and delicious dishes, it has a Sunday 4 4 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

Giraffe With plenty of healthy options, you can take your

“Give the little ones a taste of America’s Deep South at this Forrest Gump themed restaurant”

THE Family? kids for a guilt-free meal at Giraffe at outlets across London. Whether porridge, fresh fruit or pancakes for breakfast; or salmon, omelette or nachos for lunch, your kids will love tucking into the fresh fare at this relaxed eatery. Make sure to take advantage of the great value meal deal that includes a main meal and drink. www.giraffe.net

Gordon Ramsey Restaurants Wonderful news that the family man has literally fed the demand for family-friendly dining. Across his many restaurants in London, there are delicious Children’s Menus with good wholesome foods for your kids. Gordon Ramsey Restaurants are a great introduction to fine dining for your children. www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com

Planet Hollywood A visit to Planet Hollywood is always a big hit with your youngest, nearest and dearest, with food on offer including burgers and ice cream you can’t really go wrong. Add into the mix a fun atmosphere, great Hollywood memorabilia and a room dedicated to the adventures of our very own British secret service agent, James Bond. 57-60 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QX. Tel: 020 7287 1000

Rainforest Café Rainforest Cafe, located just two minutes from Piccadilly Circus, brings together the sights and sounds of the jungle in a vibrant and exciting atmosphere of fun for all the family. See the venue brought to life by elephants, gorillas, jaguars and crocodiles, together with tropical fish tanks, an indoor waterfall and thunderstorm all adding to the exciting dining experience. Great for all the family, there is an extensive menu of American and International cuisine catering for both adults and children. 20 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EU. Tel: 020 7434 3111

“Rainforest Cafe, located just two minutes from Piccadilly Circus, brings together the sights and sounds of the jungle”

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“Baby it’s cold inside…”

CHILL OUT WITH GENTOO PENGUINS THIS CHRISTMAS

addle into the festive season at SEA LIFE London and chill out with our Gentoo penguins, Santa’s Antarctic helpers! With the arrival of our eight newest Gentoo penguins, this Christmas is shaping up to be the biggest celebration yet. Visitors will be able to get up close and personal with these fascinating birds, with floor-to-ceiling windows and special ‘pop- up’ viewing dome. Our penguins also have an important job to do this Christmas; during the festive period visitors will be have the opportunity to send Father Christmas a letter via our Penguin Post. Thanks to our new snowy ‘South Pole Post Box’ (which has sprung up in the chilly Penguin Point area) it connects directly to Father Christmas at the North Pole - making sure

LONDON BIG TICKET The London Big Ticket puts visitors in control, offering great savings when you combine booking any of the unmissable Merlin London attractions including: the Coca-Cola London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, London Dungeon, SEA LIFE London, Shrek’s Adventure! London, the London Eye River Cruise and Big Bus tours. This ticket offer means guests will be able to visit a combination of these attractions from £40 and best of all, you get to pick the attractions to make up the offer. Visit www.londonbigticket.com for more information.

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that everyone can send a letter to Santa this season. Parents can also visit our website to find out how to receive a reply for their little ones from the big man himself!

“During the festive period visitors will be have the opportunity to send Father Christmas a letter via our Penguin Post” Other penguin festivities will include ‘Sing-to the Gentoo’ carol services with our special Marie Curie choir. Listen to festive songs as the birds settle down for their own ‘Silent Night’ – check our website for confirmed dates and times. Penguin Point offers visitors a state-of-the-art viewing and learning experience complete with a colony of inquisitive Gentoo penguins. All these ‘cool’ encounters are included in the entrance price to the aquarium and visitors can also enjoy getting up close to over 10,000 colourful aquatic inhabitants representing over 600 species in 56 immersive displays. For opening times, feeding times, prices and more, visit www.visitsealife.com/london. SEA LIFE London, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 7PB

FAMILY SKIING Morzine

On site crĂ¨che & kids club Massage, sauna, hot tub On piste & opposite lift, suites & family bedrooms Top chef and wine cellar www.chillypowder.com 020 7289 6958

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top three santa experiences Why wait until December 25? Claire Spreadbury reviews the best UK grottoes. includes a personalised invitation and entry into Father Christmas’ Arctic homeland, an Elf Passport for every child, all activities, ice skating, a gift for every child, a photograph of your children with Father Christmas and a Christmas Morning Thank You card from Santa.

A cult adventure LEGOLAND, Windsor

f you haven’t booked in to see Father Christmas yet, you’d better get your (ice) skates on. But with so many grottoes in every type of location, it can become a bit mindboggling to know where to start. Grab yourself some tickets to one of our top three - all tried and tested by real parents and children...

The perfect all-rounder Lapland UK, Ascot

Most parents are surprised to learn that LEGOLAND (legoland.co.uk) is an utterly brilliant place to take the kids at Christmas. The rides are not - as many think - shut for the winter. Instead, there are around 30 attractions up and running, which is just enough for a day trip. Little ones can also head through the maze of trees to see Santa and receive a little LEGO gift, while Miniland contains an array of festive additions, including Father Christmas flying over Big Ben in his sleigh. Elves are on the lookout for little helpers to write letters to Santa and build LEGO Christmas decorations, and there’s even a special Secret Shopping Service in action, whereby on hearing the word “Rudolph”, staff will jump to attention and help mums and

The closest you can get to the real Lapland is Lapland UK (laplanduk.co.uk). It’s so good, royalty (hello Mike and Zara Tindall), pop royalty (Elton is obviously a fan) and almost royalty (David Beckham and a husky, anyone?) have been. The experience is pricey but what follows is a genuinely magical journey, full of theatre and belief. Snowy surroundings, Christmas activities (baking with Mother Christmas and making actual toys with elves have been hugely popular in previous years), real reindeer and ice skating beneath a star-lit sky is only the beginning. It’s the visit to see Santa, who somehow seems to know things only Santa could know, that will leave children wide-eyed and full of wonder. You’ll need to be quick if you want a ticket though - many dates are already sold out. Doors are open until Christmas Eve, entry costs between £45 and £120 per person (it’s much more expensive at weekends and the closer you get to Christmas) and the experience lasts around four hours. The price

“The brand new illuminated trail features over one million twinkling lights”

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dads keep their purchases under wraps, with a range of diversionary activities to keep the kids occupied. Christmas at LEGOLAND is running on December 2-3, 9-10 and 16-24, 2017. Tickets cost £35 per person, must be booked online and include a visit to Father Christmas, all themed activities, free gift, and rides and attractions.

One for older kids Kew Gardens, London If your kids are too old to for sitting on Santa’s knee but you all want to get into the festive spirit, head to Christmas at Kew (kew.org). Until January 1, between 5pm and 10pm, the Royal Botanic Gardens will be transformed into an after-dark light show. The brand new illuminated trail features over one million twinkling lights and as visitors meander along the path, they’ll be met by glittering trees, singing trees and even the enormous Sledge Tree, constructed from more than 360 wooden Santa sledges. As well as watching the mesmerising light and music show, you can sniff at the scent of roasted chestnuts, mulled cider and other tasty offerings, munch on toasted marshmallows and spot Santa and his elves performing along the trail. It’s a night not to be missed. Tickets start at £16 for adults and £10 for children.

Little Impressions That Last Forever… It’s amazing how fast they grow. What better way to create an enduring memento, preserving the uniqueness of your little ones forever!

Created by Fiona North, beautifully crafted and hand finished, they make ideal and truly personal gifts. Using a simple and quick clay moulding technique, we create unique three-dimensional casts, which preserve an image of your child’s hands or feet in perfect detail forever. Ideal for any age from a few weeks old, hands, feet or combinations are available in a wide range of box frames, finishes, mounts and linings. Gift vouchers are available and special commissions such as complete family sets are welcome. We can also include first shoes, bootees, photos and memorabilia.

Give a gift with a lasting impression. Telephone 0208 674 4068 Mobile 07766 101570 lITTlE IMprEssIons 64 Rodenhurst Road, London SW4 8AR

Email fionan@little-impressions.com

WWW.LITTLE-IMPRESSIONS.COM

PREGNANCY, BIRTH & BABIES

– Keeping you and baby happy and healthy throughout pregnancy and birth – i mage : wa n t a home b i r t h l i ke kat e ? s ee t he a d va n tage s a n d d i s a d va n tage s

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BOOSTING YOUR

CHILD’S HEALTH Here’s how to promote healthy gut bacteria in children that could last them a lifetime. WORDS: Lisa Salmon

ost parents know that feeding children a good, balanced diet is vital for their health and development. But what’s less well-known is that a key reason for ensuring good nutrition early in life is to nurture children’s microbiome - the trillions of bacteria that live on and in us, but mainly in the gastrointestinal tract. The microbiome helps control the immune system, and thus how well children fight off infections and whether they develop allergies, as well

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as regulating the metabolism and even influencing mood. It also plays a huge role in a healthy digestive system, which helps control weight, sleep and much more. Largely a product of lifestyle and the environment, the microbiome changes throughout life and is most malleable during early childhood. Dr Rachael Buck, lead research scientist and gut health expert at healthcare company Abbott, shares three ways to promote a healthy microbiome in both pregnant women and children, giving them a

“The microbiome changes throughout life and is most malleable during early childhood”

strong foundation for a healthy gut for the rest of their lives.

recommended for as long as possible during infancy, as it provides many benefits to both mother and baby. It’s difficult to reverse the decision not to breastfeed.” Speak to a health visitor, midwife or doctor for advice on how to feed your baby.

1. During pregnancy Emerging research shows a mother’s gut bacteria undergo natural changes as pregnancy progresses. These changes in the microbiome promote energy storage in fat tissue and help support the growth of the foetus. A healthy diet isn’t only good for mum and her microbiome, it’s good for her growing baby too. So, if pregnancy cravings have you reaching for sweets or the biscuit tin, opt for something healthier instead. Try to stick to a varied diet with plenty of fibre-packed foods such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, and probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt and sauerkraut. If you’re feeling more adventurous, kefir (a fermented milk drink) and kimchi (salted and fermented vegetables) are also good choices and are now widely available in supermarkets.

2. Baby’s first 24 hours How and where a baby’s born, as well as every surface touched in the first 24 hours of life, affects baby’s microbiome, and these early experiences can impact its health well into the future. From the moment it’s born, a baby’s body is colonised by trillions of microbes given to it by its mother during birth, from her gut and skin and via what baby eats, whether that’s breast milk, formula or both. Skin-to-skin contact soon after birth promotes nursing and helps establish milk supply, and breast milk itself helps to build a healthy gut too. Components such as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), a special type of prebiotic and the most abundant ingredient in breast milk after fat and carbohydrate (lactose), help to feed and multiply healthy gut bacteria and work to support a baby’s developing immune system. Buck says: “Breastfeeding is best for babies and is

3. Early years

“How and where a baby’s born, as well as every surface touched in the first 24 hours of life, affects baby’s microbiome, and these early experiences can impact its health well into the future”

Newborns and young infants start with a limited number of microbes. However, as babies come into contact with more people and new environments, they acquire additional types, and the composition of their microbiome begins to change and become more distinct. The types of solid food children are introduced to can also play a big part in the make-up of their microbiome. Buck says the toddler years are an ideal time to optimise a child’s gut health through diet because then the microbiome stays fairly similar throughout his or her lifetime. After introducing solid foods - one at a time - to a toddler, offer a variety of nutritious foods including eggs, legumes like lentils, beans, and peas, vegetables and fruit. Starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, squash and yucca, whole grains like oats, rice, barley and quinoa, and probiotic-rich gut foods like yoghurt and kefir are also good choices to boost their gut health.

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Pregnant NOT Powerless I

f you thought pregnancy provided an excuse to hang up your trainers and avoid the January rush to the gym, read these facts and you’ll probably change your mind. • Many common complaints of pregnancy, including tiredness, varicose veins and swollen ankles, are reduced in women who exercise. • Women who are physically active in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy are around a third less likely to develop pre-eclampsia. • Active pregnant women experience less insomnia, stress, anxiety and depression. • Regular exercise during pregnancy helps avoid excessive weight gain and increased risk of gestational diabetes • Women with low activity levels during pregnancy have an increased risk of medical intervention (a C-section or forceps delivery) during labour • Babies born to women to exercise during pregnancy have improved heart rates, pumping blood more efficiently, even before birth But despite these and other benefits of staying fit for both mother AND baby, far too many women are unsure about what exercise is safe and just how much they can (and should) do, opting instead to avoid anything too strenuous during pregnancy. Maternity activewear specialists FittaMamma launched the ‘Pregnant Not Powerless’ campaign to raise awareness of just how important it is to continue to exercise. They say, ‘Our aim is to empower and motivate women to stay fit and active throughout their ninemonth journey. We want to change the attitudes towards pregnant women exercising, encouraging a greater understanding that raising your heart rate and maintaining your strength during pregnancy is something to be proud of, not avoided. Medical experts recommend at least 30 minutes exercise every day for the sake of your health and the health of your baby - and our aim is to help all pregnant women to achieve this.’ Charlotte Robinson, UK Elite Pole Champion says “Staying active during pregnancy isn’t about

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Tara Brigitte-Bhavnani, professional ballerina

“Babies born to women to exercise during pregnancy have improved heart rates, pumping blood more efficiently, even before birth”

how hard you push but about moving your body to create a healthier future for you and your baby. I exercised before being pregnant to make me feel good so why wouldn’t I continue for the same reasons during!? I am now working at a way lower intensity but it still gives me that feel good factor :) Listen to your body and do what feels good for you! Here’s to being #pregnantnotpowerless” The FittaMamma maternity fitnesswear range is designed to work like a sports bra for your bump, supporting where you need it most so you can work out with confidence and style throughout your pregnancy. FittaMamma.com is a fantastic resource for pregnant and postnatal women with extensive information about safe exercise, workouts and videos. www.fittamamma.com

Charlotte Robertson, UK Elite Pole Champion Mirella Ingamells, fitness model and trainer

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LABOUR SIGNS: The Early

Symptoms Expecting a dramatic Call The Midwife-style birth? Relax… Your due date’s getting closer, but how will you know the labour signs to look out for? Even the most subtle changes can indicate your baby’s on the way.

“An ache in your lower back can mean your baby is rotating into the right position for labour. This can take a few days and may be painful, It could also be the start of your contractions”

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HEARTBURN RELIEF

YOU HAVE A ‘SHOW’

As your bump grows, your baby will push your stomach upwards. This forces acid in your stomach into your windpipe, causing heartburn. Luckily, in the weeks running up to your due date, you may notice symptoms get slightly better. This is because your baby has dropped, which means he’s moved down into your pelvis ready for birth. You may also find that you can breathe more easily because your baby isn’t pushing against your lungs and decreasing their capacity.

A mucus plug covers your cervix in pregnancy and this may come loose up to a few days before labour starts. A brown, pink or red-tinged stringy or jelly-like discharge, it can come out either in one lump or more gradually over a few days. Speak to a midwife just to make sure you’re not bleeding. If it’s bright red or the discharge starts to look heavy, head to hospital. If your midwife is happy, just eat, sleep and relax before things really get going.

YOU HAVE BACKACHE

YOUR NIPPLES LEAK

An ache in your lower back can mean your baby is rotating into the right position for labour. This can take a few days and may be painful, It could also be the start of your contractions – some women experience them more in their back than their stomach. Get through the discomfort by taking the recommended dose of paracetamol, then put your feet up, ask your partner for a back rub and have warm a bath.

It’s not just during breastfeeding that nipples can leak – it’s all throughout your final trimester. That said, you’ll probably notice it most in the last few weeks before your baby arrives. The milk you’re leaking is colostrum, a nutrient-rich liquid that will nourish your baby until your proper milk comes in a couple of days after the birth. If you’re getting wet patches on your clothes, buy some disposable breast pads that you can pop inside your bra.

DIARRHOEA The hormones that help your uterus contract can also sometimes cause diarrhoea in the hours before birth. If this happens, increase the amount of water you’re drinking and hold off on milk or sugary drinks, which can make diarrhoea worse. Try eating bland food such as rice to keep your energy levels up.

SWOLLEN DOWN BELOW Pregnancy has a tendency to leave you feeling swollen in different areas of your body, and that includes your labia at the entrance to your vagina. It can be disconcerting, but it’s very normal. It’s caused by the increase in blood volume in your body. When your baby moves down into your pelvis, generally after week 37, it also puts more pressure around your vagina, making it feel swollen. Ease any discomfort by placing an ice pack in a clean tea towel and resting it on the area.

FREQUENT TOILET STOPS With a growing baby bump that presses on your bladder, you’ll find you need to pee more regularly during pregnancy. But this could increase even further in the final week before birth, as your baby positions himself in your pelvis. Carry on drinking water as you don’t want to become dehydrated, but avoid coffee, soft drinks and citrus fruits as these tend to irritate the bladder.

SUDDEN BURST OF ENERGY If getting up off the sofa is about as much activity as you can manage for most of your last trimester, the sudden spurt of energy you get in the days before labour starts (and the urge to clean out your kitchen cupboards) is often a not-unpleasant surprise. Make the most of it! Sort out the house, organise your baby’s clothes and set up a few change stations ready for her arrival home.

“These short, painless, tightening sensations mean your uterus is gearing up for labour. Real contractions tend to start weak, perhaps feeling like period pain, then grow in frequency and intensity”

midwives may want you to go in. They will also ask you about the fluid: it should be a straw-like colour and have a sweet odour. If your waters are green, your baby may have emptied her bowels, a sign of distress, and you’ll need to go to hospital to be checked over.

CONTRACTIONS Firstly, are you sure these aren’t Braxton Hicks? These short, painless, tightening sensations mean your uterus is gearing up for labour. Real contractions tend to start weak, perhaps feeling like period pain, then grow in frequency and intensity. Don’t rush to hospital, but do let the unit know what’s happening. Instead, take the recommended dose of paracetamol and try to chill out. Established labour is usually when you have three, one-minute contractions in the space of 10 minutes. When the contractions become so intense, you struggle to talk, you’ll know it’s definitely time to head to hospital.

WALKING DIFFERENTLY If your gait has started to resemble a cross between a cowboy and a duck, (attractive!) it could well be a sign your baby will soon be arriving. Your pelvis widens in preparation for birth, which can affect the way you walk. If your walk has changed and you’re also experiencing discomfort, it could be a sign of pelvic girdle pain (PGP). Talk to your GP who may refer you to a physiotherapist. They can teach you exercises or provide a special belt to help support your pelvis.

YOUR WATERS BREAK Otherwise known as the moment the sac of amniotic fluid surrounding your baby ruptures. This can happen as an all-in-one gush, or a slow trickle that lasts a few days. Your waters can break any time during labour or birth, or they may be broken by a midwife to help kick-start labour. Your waters can break any time during labour or birth. If your waters do break, call the maternity unit. Once your waters break, you’re at risk of infection, so the D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8 5 7

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The Be You Collection A new collection from BabyBjörn that embraces the freedom to be you

abyBjörn has been working for a long time to support parents and design products to make their everyday lives easier and more fun. With the new Be You collection, BabyBjörn is encouraging parents to trust in themselves and celebrate the freedom to simply be themselves. BabyBjörn is challenging the social stereotypes and focusing on parents’ selfbelief. The A/W collection showcases new colours of the award-winning, and beloved Bouncer Bliss and Baby Carrier One. Every day, BabyBjörn meet and talk to families and parents all over the world, and many admit to feeling under pressure or unfairly judged in various ways. Parents feel the need to be perfect, and are bombarded by stereotypes that don’t reflect the reality and diversity of our modern society. BabyBjörn feel that we should all be more accepting and respect the equality of all people; we should recognise that every parent and every child is different. As a company, we have a great responsibility to send this message – and especially for our future generations.

“The colour palette in the new collection ranges from classic grey pinstripe to on-trend lavender violet”. ‘This is a topic we feel passionate about. We’ve created a campaign designed to increase acceptance of the fact that we are all unique, we make different choices and have our own styles. Nobody should have to pretend to be somebody they’re not. Each one of us should be able to trust in our own abilities and instincts when it comes to parenthood too,’ believes Charlotte Smirnova Lindblom, lead copywriter for the new Be You collection. ‘We’re not using models for this campaign, we’re featuring real parents with their own children. This is another way of underlining the importance of 5 8 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

being you. There are no perfect parents – just real ones. And in the images, we want to show people as they really are and create a sense that we’re all fine just the way we are,’ adds Art Director Karin Hoxter, the designer behind the new Be You collection. ‘The colour palette in the new collection ranges from classic grey pinstripe to on-trend lavender violet. We wanted to create a colour scheme and good mix that reflects diversity and expresses the freedom to choose the one you like,’ says Karin. The Be You collection, in new colours, features our popular best-sellers Baby Carrier One, One Air and Bouncer Bliss. The collection is a limited edition and the new colours are; Lavender violet, navy blue, vintage turquoise, terracotta pink, dusk blue, and pinstripe/ grey.

THE DETAILS Baby Carrier One, RRP: £135; Baby Carrier One Air, RRP: £155; Bouncer Bliss, RRP: £145; For more details visit www.babybjorn.co.uk

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WANT A HOME BIRTH LIKE KATE? THESE ARE THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES As reports suggest the Duchess of Cambridge wants a home birth for her next baby, a midwife outlines the pros and cons of home deliveries. WORDS: Lisa Salmon

f you’re pregnant and want to follow in the footsteps of the Duchess of Cambridge, you may be considering a home birth. One provider of home birth services, Private Midwives says it’s had a 44% increase in enquiries following the announcement that the Duchess is expecting her third child and reportedly

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wants to have the baby at home. A new Private Midwives survey suggests 29% of mums would prefer to give birth at home, although the actual home birth rate is only 2.4% of deliveries. The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have said they support home birth

“29% of mums would prefer to give birth at home”

for uncomplicated pregnancies, stressing: “There is ample evidence showing that labouring at home increases a woman’s likelihood of a birth that is both satisfying and safe, with implications for her health and that of her baby.” However, some women may shy away from home births because they fear not being in a medical environment at either a hospital or birth centre could put their baby’s, or their own, health at risk should there be complications. But the Home Birth Reference Site says research has found only 4.3 UK births out of every thousand have serious complications, and planned home, hospital or midwife unit births all have a low level of risk. Mandy Forrester, the RCM’s head of quality and standards, says: “Normally the women who choose to give birth at home have straightforward pregnancies, and the risk factors are very minimal, as long as there’s a risk assessment and the woman has made the most appropriate choice for her. “This is an experience we don’t have very often in our lives, and it should be the best experience and as close as it possibly can to how you think it should be.”

etc as a paediatrician or midwife would in hospital.

Home birth advantages

Issues with access for an ambulance Accessibility for emergency services can be an issue if a woman lives in a rural location, for example. Forrester says this isn’t necessarily prohibitive, but very precise planning is needed to make sure emergencies can be dealt with swiftly and a woman can be transferred to hospital quickly if necessary.

Being at home is more relaxing The woman is in her own environment, with her own things around her. Forrester says: “It very much makes women feel more comfortable and relaxed, and labour will progress more efficiently.” Better relationship with the midwife This continuity of care has a major impact on safety. Forrester says: “A midwife who knows the woman will understand the nuances around her behaviour and what she wants, as a trusted relationship will have built up. That’s a real positive.” Family can be there Children, grandparents and even pets can be at the birth if the mother wants them there. Less pain relief needed Pain relief such as epidurals and other medical interventions are used less frequently during home births. Homebirth specialist midwives Most midwives who deal with home births are trained to perform baby’s first examination, checking its heart, lungs

No hospital stay The mother doesn’t have to go anywhere afterwards - she’s at home and can have that first period with her new baby without any interruptions. “It’s quite magical,” says Forrester. “Mothers have that uninterrupted time that must feel so much more comfortable, if that’s what she wants to do.”

Home birth disadvantages Possible risk from medical complications Sometimes a woman with medical complications or complexities such as a raised BMI or pre-eclampsia, may want a home birth when medical professionals want her to give birth in hospital. “When that happens, you have to work with the woman and draw up a robust birth plan, discussing all the risk factors and outlining what the midwife may be looking for that indicates there’s a need to go into hospital,” says Forrester. “If women start where they want to, even if they do transfer to hospital, they have more of a positive birth experience than if they’re told right from the start they can’t have a home birth.”

Paramedics may be called Midwives working at women’s homes are trained to manage emergencies, but in dire situations such as placental abruption (where the placenta separates from the uterus), paramedics will be called for an emergency transfer to hospital. “These are the situations that need to be discussed with women so they understand that if they do need to transfer quickly, it will have to be by ambulance,” explains Forrester. “But a lot of women say even if there’s the slightest risk, they want to be in hospital.” Neighbours should be prepped If a woman’s likely to scream a lot during labour, it’s worth preparing the neighbours. “If she’s going to feel really inhibited in her own home by that, it may well be best that she’s not at home, as all that inhibition will just slow down the oxytocin cycle that makes the contractions happen,” says Forrester. D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8 6 1

It’s a slipper, it’s a sock, NO... It’s a Moccis! We interviewed Anna Wetterlin, Founder and Owner of Moccis, the hand-sewn Swedish Moccasin company. Anna lives in south west London with her husband and her children, Lea 11, Alexander 8 and Oliver 6.

What inspired you to design children’s Swedish style moccasins? I realised whilst working as an agent for Scandinavian brands that the UK had not yet discovered what every mum in Sweden can’t live

without, moccasins! I found that Swedish moccasins meant: • No more slipping and sliding! • No more cold feet and missing socks! • No more dirty shoes indoors! They are perfect at home, at the nursery and at the playgroup and the best part: they are machine washable! With a background in fashion I thought it would be great fun to design some of my own and introduce them to the UK. The outcome was Moccis! My main aim was to design traditional Swedish moccasins that children would pick before any other footwear and in 2018 we will be celebrating 10 years of Moccis love! What makes Moccis so special? We are very proud to be producing Moccis in the original factory in Sweden which ensures that the quality is made to last and that all workers are paid and treated fairly. The washable leather sole is

durable whilst stopping slips and keeping the feet protected. We use Oeko-tex certified yarns to ensure that Moccis are soft, breathable and non-toxic. We also have a double elastic sewn in at the ankle to ensure that Moccis stays on, a constant issue with little feet. As we offer Moccis to adults we know that our little ones are very comfortable, and we can enjoy matching feet. What’s next for Moccis? We are constantly working hard to spread Moccis love and in 2018 we will be available in China, Russia and Middle East which is very exciting. www.moccis.co.uk

RoRoRetreats Family Yoga Retreat at LOVELAND FARM, NORTH DEVON May Half Term 26th May – 2nd June 2018 7 nights accommodation, full board, yoga, supervised childcare www.rororetreats.com

‘This is the best family holiday I’ve ever had’ – Sev, Parent

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“We have bought numerous pairs of these as gifts and they are always a hit.” “We have bought numerous pairs of these as gifts and they are always a hit.”

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YUMMY MUMMY

Happy birthday baby! First birthday, first teeth

aby’s first birthday is an exciting milestone. Family, friends, fun, photos, so much to do, celebrations to arrange. But there’s one extra-important task that not everyone gets around to, and the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD) wants to change that. It’s time to book baby’s first dental appointment! In 2017, the BSPD launched a ‘Dental Check by One’ campaign, called ‘DCby1’, to spread the word about the importance of dental appointments for children. Dental decay is almost always preventable, so it’s never too soon to book that visit, and the BSPD wants all little ones to see a dentist as soon as the first teeth come through, and definitely by baby’s first birthday. The BSPD says these early appointments are a chance for the dentist to check teeth are developing as they should be and to give information and advice to help you look after your little one’s precious smile.

Top tips include: • Even before teeth are showing, get into the habit of gently wiping gums with a soft cloth • As soon as the first tooth appears choose a small soft bristled brush and with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste brush twice a day • Brush away from mealtimes • Introduce drinking from an open-top cup by age one • Avoid ‘sticky’ snacks such as raisins • Give fruit at mealtimes rather than in between meals • Choose ‘dentally healthy’ snacks such as cubes of cheese, or nuts (for over 1’s without allergies) or houmous and pitta bread • Avoid juice or any sweetened drink – stick to milk or water Not all babies or toddlers are keen on opening 6 4 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

their mouth on their initial dental checks, but the vital thing is to help make it something that becomes familiar and natural. My little ones’ first appointments mostly consisted of the dentist counting their teeth in time to a rhyme, but she was actually having a good look at the gums and the few teeth poking through. Those counting rhymes or first go in the dentist’s chair are just little steps, but they play a brilliantly big role in helping our babies grow up with healthy teeth that are free from cavities. Baby teeth sometimes get overlooked – quite literally! But they play a vital role as placeholders for adult teeth and help sow the seed for a lifetime of healthy smiles. So remember, DCby1, and keep those pearly whites healthy from the start. As the saying goes, “You don’t need to look after your teeth – only the ones you want to keep!” Sara Keel, Babycup First Cups Sara is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood and Founder of Babycup ‘the little cup that’s kind to baby teeth’. Babycup First Cups are available from JoJo Maman Bébé, Amazon and branches of Waitrose www.babycup.co.uk

“Those counting rhymes or first go in the dentist’s chair are just little steps, but they play a brilliantly big role in helping our babies grow up with healthy teeth that are free from cavities”

FAMILY LIFE – We’ve got everything covered from kids’ fashion to top parenting tips – i mage : W INT E R WA R D R O B E U P D AT E

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New Music For Children

Dolly Parton, 71, has been making music for over 50 years, so you’d think she’s done all there is. But this year, the singer decided to fulfil a long-time dream of making a children’s album. She spoke to Kerri-Ann Roper about why the album made her feel ‘young again’ and why she has no plans to retire any time soon.

olly Parton’s work is never done. At 71 and after a glittering 50-year career that is unrivalled in country music, she could easily hang her rhinestone boots up and call it a well-earned day. But as the Queen on Country says herself, “timing is everything”, and that is exactly why she has now embarked on an impressive new adventure in her music career. Parton has released her first-ever children’s music album, titled I Believe In You, and it’s been a personal labour of love for the singer, who has written and performed all of the album’s 14 tracks. “I’ve always wanted to actually have a children’s album,” she explains, “but usually when you’ve got a record label that’s paying you big bucks and got your big contracts and you’ve got promoters that are wanting to do a tour, this and that, usually the years go by and they say: ‘Oh no, you’ve got to do this or do that,’ so there’s always some mainstream music thing they want you to do. “So you kinda put those novelty things aside, like children’s albums or gospel albums.” It’s another addition to an already staggering list of achievements: Parton is a published author (several times over) of not only fiction, but also cookbooks. Then there’s her theme park, Dollywood, and she’s the co-founder of Sandollar Productions, who produced the Buffy The Vampire Slayer television series. She’s sold more than 100 million records worldwide, won pretty much every single music award there is (including eight Grammys, 10 Country Music Association Awards and many more) and in 1999 she was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. But at the centre of all of this, there’s another body of her work that she pours her heart into - her charity, the Imagination Library. Founded in 1995, it’s distributed more than 100 million books to children across the globe. “I’ve just been writing songs for all these years, children’s songs for my nieces and nephews and friends, and I’ve also been writing songs through my

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Imagination Library,” she explains. “When I started thinking about what I was going to do next musically it was like a light bulb, it’s the time to do the children’s album, it’s perfect timing. So, I think it’s the right time, plus the holidays are coming up and it’s a good little Christmas gift for kids and all the money from the album goes back to the Imagination Library to put more books into the hands of more children.” Born Dolly Rebecca Parton in Tennessee, in the US, she was the fourth of 12 children. She married her husband Carl Thomas Dean in 1966, but he has very much remained in the background and rarely steps into his wife’s limelight. Despite coming from a large family herself, the couple have no children, which Parton has spoken about over the years, telling The Guardian in 1996 that “it wasn’t meant to be”. Writing this children’s album let her embrace her inner child, she says down the phone in her famous accent. “Well it’s more fun first of all,” she says talking about writing lyrics for children.

“When I started thinking about what I was going to do next musically it was like a light bulb, it’s the time to do the children’s album, it’s perfect timing”

“I get to be a child, I get to think like a child. I’m very involved with children, I’m very close to my family - all of my nieces and nephews, my brothers and sisters, you know, when we were growing up too, and so I get to be playful, I get to be a child. “I get to try and think like them, and think what they would be entertained by. Plus also, I tried to think about the lessons they need to learn, the things they need to know and try to do it in a fun, teaching kind of way, but that’s fun to sing. “When I was writing, I was trying to think of myself as their teacher in school, you know, Miss Dolly. I was trying to think: ‘Now what would I teach if I was standing up there in kindergarten class or in school teaching the children?’ So I had fun writing these songs.” But the album also has two very personal tracks on it titled Chemo Hero and Brave Little Soldier. “I couldn’t write these songs if they weren’t somewhere deep inside me from my own life and from my own childhood,” she says. “But I tried to address other things as well. Two songs I wrote about a little niece of mine, Hannah Dennison, she’s my sister Rachel’s daughter and she had leukaemia when she was four years old. We thought we were going to lose her until she was like nine years old so she went through a hard time and so I wrote Chemo Hero and Brave Little Soldier for her. When she was recouping I would write all of these songs and put them on a cassette for her to listen to while she wasn’t feeling good.” Despite the album’s obvious personal meaning, Parton says she hopes the songs will inspire and help other children. “I thought they would be important to put in there because there’s a lot of sick children out there. Brave Little Solider kind of covers other sick children or children going through a divorce, it’s just about being brave, saying ‘we’re going to make it through’.” She says working on the album “rejuvenated” her and being surrounded by children and getting to interact with them while promoting it has “really made me feel young again”. Another ‘youngster’ not unfamiliar in her world is her goddaughter, American pop star Miley Cyrus. Parton has just collaborated with Cyrus on her new album on a song called Rainbowland. And over the years Cyrus has belted out her godmother’s famous hits, notably covering Parton’s 1973 hit Jolene, both solo and last year dueting with Parton during the American version of singing show The Voice. Surely by now Parton must tire of performing it? “No, I do not (get tired of performing it),” she says emphatically down the line, “And a lot of people are amazed when I say this, that is the most recorded song that I’ve ever written worldwide since it came out in early 70s, it’s just that little melody.” She breaks into a gentle version of those famous lyrics ‘Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Joleennee...’ and you can almost hear her smiling through the phone.

And what does she make of Cyrus’s renditions of it? “She does great on that, she’s always loved that song,” she says proudly. Parton will also soon follow in the footsteps of personalities like Tom Hardy, David Hasselhoff and Queens Of The Stone Age frontman Josh Homme when she reads a CBeebies Bedtime Story. And that’s not all she’s got on the go: she reels off a list of things she’s got in the pipeline. In the past, Dolly has extended her talents to the big screen, appearing in hit films such as Steel Magnolias and the 1980s comedy 9 To 5. “I have got several of my songs in production,” she says, notably adding that she’s working on developing her song Jolene into a possible series, and “is trying to find a wonderful Jolene somewhere out there in the world”. “I’m taking a lot of my songs and making them into movies for TV and I’m still working on my life story as a musical for stage.” And this children’s album has sparked another dream she’d like to make a reality: a lullaby album called Dollabyes for younger children. Any plans to slow down then, Dolly? Not quite. “Well, I will slow down in some ways and speed up in others. “In fact, I’ve kind of pulled back a little now, I’m doing the production things that’s a slower, easier way of life. I’m not planning to tour (anytime soon), but now that I’ve pulled back a bit, I’ve noticed I’m writing more songs than I have in years, because now there’s a demand for me to write songs for movies and soundtracks, so I’ll slow down in some ways and work harder in another. “I don’t have any plans to retire,” she says, adding later: “I’ve got plenty of work to do.” That you do - and boy, are your fans glad for it. Dolly Parton’s I Believe In You is available worldwide now.

All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

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Winter Wardrobe Update

Deck your little ones out in snuggly new togs.

emperatures are officially dipping and it’s time to welcome colder days with open arms, because if there’s one thing we love about the new season, it’s the clothes. Cosy coats, the unisex trend and the deliciously bold shade of red are making waves on the high street, but it’s not just for grown-ups. These are all getting the nod in childrenswear, too. “Our kidswear collection brings a bold pop of colour, with thoughtful details in the delicate embroidery, cosy faux fur trims and a touch of sparkle,” says Shani Delargy, head of buying for childrenswear at Debenhams. “The J by Jasper Conran collection focuses on vibrant colours, confident graphics and charming prints, while the RJR.John Rocha occasionwear collection is perfect for party season, returning with full dresses in shimmering satins, pom-pom heels and faux fur shrugs.” Nicola Williamson, Bobux’s senior designer and product developer, notes that fashion-forward parents are buying children’s clothing in rusty reds, mustard and deep green shades, and recommends on-trend metallic boots for adding a glamorous edge to a toned-down outfit.

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Because even small people can be super stylish. Here are our seasonal favourites... (ABOVE) The top-to-toe dude chic If you need to deck your little man out in some smart gear, the Designers at Debenhams are all you need. J by Jasper Conran 3 in 1 Parka, age 1-6, from £48, J by Jasper Conran Jumper, age 4-14, £19 (available mid-October), and J by Jasper Conran Jeans, age 1-6, from £16, Debenhams

The must-buy jumper Suitable for girls and boys and made from 100% organic cotton, could this sweatshirt be any cuter? Dog Sweatshirt in Navy, sizes 56-146 (1-11 yrs), £38, Mini Rodini

“Suitable for girls and boys and made from 100% organic cotton, could this sweatshirt be any cuter?”

“There is nothing more useful than a zippy top when it comes to newseason togs”

The wish-they-made-them-in-adultsize metallic boots If you’ve never tried Bobux kids’ shoes, now’s the time. Made from beautifully soft leather, the comfort factor is second to none, and because of their shape, they often last longer than normal shoes. Vault boots in Molten Gold, sizes 27-33, £52, Bobux

The autumn zippy There is nothing more useful than a zippy top when it comes to new-season togs. Made from 100% organic cotton and suitable for both boys and girls in the colour of the season, this one’s built to last. Quilted Hoody in Red, age 3-10, £40, Five Boys Clothing

The tick-the-trend checks The practical puffer Showerproof and super-cosy, these puffer jackets are perfect for kids. Snooze Furlined Padded Jacket, age 5-12, and Snuggle Up Padded Jacket, age 5-13, £29.99 (reduced from £59.99), Zakti

The weatherproof waterproof This is uber-expensive but it’s a proper technical jacket with taped seams that’s completely waterproof. So if you’re going skiing or our winter turns freezing, this will keep them warm and snuggly. Tootsa Blizzard Winter Jacket, age 2-12, £85, Muddy Puddles

A check shirt is an on-trend classic, and when it’s this affordable, it’s wise to buy two. Mock Layer Hooded Check Shirt, age 4-14, from £8, George at Asda

The most adorable dungarees on the planet Perfect with tights and a longsleeved T-shirt, these organic cotton dungarees are very foxy. Cerys Cord Dungarees, age 2-10, £34, Frugi

The new-season backpack Every tot needs a bag as wonderful as this on their back. Bear Backpack, £25, Newbie

The partywear princess dress Perfect for parties, Christmas and being a bridesmaid - this dress is to die for. RJR.Rocha Navy Sequin Bodice Dress, age 4-14, £55, Debenhams

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Beautiful Bedrooms Some gorgeous items to deck out your child’s bedroom unicorn emoji® cushion 6 billion emojis are used in the world everyday across all our social media platforms, it has transformed the way we communicate and its here to stay. Love Bomb Cushions holds the UK license for the Emoji company and have created a luxurious range of cushions, foot cushions, keychains and plush. The range is super soft, super cuddly, made in ethical factories and tested to Toy Standards, we love this Unicorn one! £13.99, www.lovebombcushions.co.uk

THE LITTLE DORM The Dorm also comes in a smaller size! The ultimate wall feature, this Little Dorm is the small sister of The Dorm with a beautiful rose pink background. We all have drawers filled with souvenirs, memorabilia and quirky little things - but there is no need to hide them! Hang the plywood dorm on a wall and bring the nursery to life with things that remind you of something, things that make you happy and things that you got from someone special. Made of plywood with painted back. £54, www.themodernnursery.com

Bunny Chair Part of the Frrrniture Range, this children’s play chair with a bunny motif is a welcomed addition to any fun and educational interior. Made from beech plywood, this product is built to last and helps introduce animals to children’s’ play time and storytelling. £75, www.littlefolksfurniture.co.uk

“This product is built to last and helps introduce animals to children’s’ play time and storytelling” 7 2 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

Palm Tree Flamingo Side Table This super-cute side table will brighten up any children’s room and being in a touch of the exotic. £165, www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk

Cabinet Knobs Flowers Landscape Revamp a chest of drawers and add a playful aspect to your child’s bedroom. Handmade, these knobs can update the furniture or add a personal touch to your newly bought cabinets or drawers. £9, www.chocolate creative.co.uk

Personalised Luxury Toy Crate We know kids toys can slowly start to take over the house and there never seems enough space to store them all! Why not surprise your little one with their very own personalised toy box to keep those all important toys safe? Available in 10 colours and personalised with a message, it’ll suit any room and any decor. £69.99, www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

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What grandparents are made of words: Lisa Salmon

“Grandparents can teach their grandchildren all sorts of things, from knitting and decoupage to fun science projects and gardening”

Grandparents love to give their grandchildren an extra-big hug to show them how important they are - their own children are all grown up, so it gives them a boost to be around active, talkative and lively little ones. A study found the most popular things to learn from grandparents are cooking, etiquette, sewing, confidence and history.

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Cooking Although ready meals frequently tend to be the modern way to eat, grandparents who were often brought up in the frugal post-war years will tend to cook from scratch, use fresher, more nutritious ingredients, and generally have a wealth of domestic knowledge to pass on to their grandchildren. Family and parenting expert Liat Hughes Joshi says: “With decades of practice in the kitchen, and many of these before the advent of supermarket ready meals,

“Learning about history helps us learn lessons about how to live life in the future, and there’s no better way for children to take those lessons on board than by hearing about history from people who lived through it”

Etiquette The survey found that more than a quarter of people have been taught etiquette by grandparents and, while manners seem less important today than they were in previous generations, there’s no doubt they still help young people go further in life. “As the saying goes, decent manners never go out of fashion,” stresses Joshi. “Chances are grandparents know a good deal about tip-top etiquette and, with that generation gap, grandchildren are less likely to get grouchy about being reminded not to chew food with their mouth open, or answer back. Make grandparents the go-to manners’ guides.”

History Learning about history helps us learn lessons about how to live life in the future, and there’s no better way for children to take those lessons on board than by hearing about history from people who lived through it, like their grandparents. And while, despite some children’s suspicions, grandmas and grandpas can’t offer first-hand anecdotes about dinosaurs, many were alive in the Second World War era and will happily share invaluable memories about that time with their grandchildren. Joshi says: “They can give fascinating insights into how 20th century life was when they were your age. If you want to know what people did all day before the Internet and even colour TV, you know exactly who to ask.”

Confidence Simply having the love and support of grandparents can make a huge difference to a child’s confidence and self-esteem, and Joshi explains: “Grandparents tend to see the best in their grandchildren - perhaps because they’re not living with their bad habits on a daily basis. They’re our biggest fans - who else will call their friends to boast about our achievements? And more than anything, they unconditionally adore us - what could be more confidence-boosting than that?” Grandparents can teach their grandchildren all sorts of things, from knitting and decoupage to fun science projects and gardening. They often have more time than parents, and perhaps more patience, and they seem to draw the best behaviour out of mutinous small children and monosyllabic teens, giving them more opportunities to seize a teachable moment. D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8 7 5

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TOY TIME

Our round-up of beautifully made toys for your children to enjoy time and time again

Top row, from left: Stripe Teepee Black Trim, £135, The Nursery Edit, www.the-nursery-edit.com; Lambert Rocking Animal, £99.95, Little Bird Told Me, www.littlebirdtoldme.co.uk; Robot Chalkboard, Fiesta Crafts, www.fiestacrafts.co.uk Middle row, from left: Softly Snail Activity Fun House, £24.95, Little Bird Told Me, www.littlebirdtoldme.co.uk; Deluxe Kiddie Mercedes Pedal Car, £595, Sweetpea & Willow, www.sweetpeaandwillow.com; Queen Teddy Bear, £25, Brown Betty Blue, www.brownbettyblue.co.uk Bottom row, from left: Blue Elephant Storage Tub - Small £5, The Contemporary Home, www.tch.net; Loullou 1St Play Baby Gym - Grey/Blue, £130, The Modern Nursery, www.themodernnursery.com; Areaware Snake Block - Small, £15, Rume, www.rume.co.uk

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COULD YOU BE Overprotective?

How to ease up

esearch suggests that while nearly half of UK mums say they’d do whatever it takes to protect their child, for some that means preventing them enjoying traditional childhood activities. A study for Dettol’s Protect Like a Mother campaign found the extremes mums resort to to protect their kids include one in five young mums banning their child from climbing trees, and 15% not letting their child play at the local park. In addition, 31% of mums check their child’s calls and texts, 12% track their mobiles, and 5% read their child’s diary. One mother even booked a hotel next to the festival site her child was attending, and 27% of parents admit they’ve followed their child. Author, TV presenter and mum of two Giovanna Fletcher, an ambassador for the Dettol campaign, says she made visitors wash their hands before holding her first baby, although she soon eased up on the rule. She says: “I would do anything to protect my children. There’s no limit to what us mums will do to ensure our children are happy and safe.” However, experts warn that overprotecting children can actually end up damaging them. Dr Rachel Andrew , a clinical psychologist who works with children and has just written The Supermum Myth , says: “Anxious parents are sending two big messages to their children. Firstly, that the world is a dangerous place and secondly that their child doesn’t have the skills to deal with it. Children can become anxious themselves if they believe this, or as they get older they may feel stifled.”

Here are some tips to help overprotective parents ease-up: Let your child take appropriate risks If you let your child take appropriate risks you’ll feel anxious, but modelling ‘coping with worry’ for your child allows them to learn it’s a normal, healthy emotion that can help them achieve things. “A small risk can seem huge to an anxious parent,” says 7 8 D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8

Andrew. “They can often think they’re doing their best for their child by controlling their environment and what they do, but in order to develop confidence in their own ability, children need to take some appropriate risk.” Only check mobiles if there’s a serious issue Only check calls and texts if you think something very serious is going on - that your child or another child is at significant risk of harm. Exhaust every other possibility before checking, as Andrew warns: “Once a confidence is broken in this way it can be very difficult to re-establish trust with your child. Breaking confidence needs to be worthwhile and a last resort.” Ask them to show you texts If you’re anxious about your child’s calls and texts, work with him/her to solve the issue by asking them to show you texts or chats. Reassure them they won’t be in trouble and they don’t need to be embarrassed.

risky). Allow your child to do some activities on the amber list, and when you’re more comfortable, some on the red list. As they’re doing them, find ways to manage your anxiety. Gradually let your child take more risks, and congratulate yourself when you’ve let them. Accept some secrecy Some secrecy in adolescence is normal, as is a child’s move towards their peer group rather than their parents. Don’t become obsessed with cleanliness While it’s natural to want to keep things clean immediately after having a baby, this should fade with time. If it doesn’t, parents should force themselves to ease up on the cleaning a bit, otherwise it can become overwhelming and detract from the enjoyment of your baby. Build a strong relationship A strong relationship with open conversations is key to keeping children safe.

Don’t read their diary Similarly, don’t read your child’s diary unless you think there’s a possibility of a serious negative issue in their life. Talk rather than follow Rather than following your child, if you’re concerned about a danger it would be better to talk to them about it and come up with a joint solution - agreed times when you’ll call or text them, putting an app on their phone that they agree might be helpful if you need to find them (like find my iPhone), or agreeing a plan should they become worried about anything. Challenge yourself List activities with your child that they’d like to do (and that most children can do), and divide them into green (safe), amber (bit risky) and red (very D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8 7 9

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spot the signs

A GP outlines the symptoms of common illnesses children can catch from other pupils and gives tips on how to reduce the risk of infection.

he school bus probably won’t be the only thing young pupils catch this academic year - school bugs can be rife in some classrooms. While there’s often no realistic way to prevent children catching infections at school, being able to spot the symptoms means parents can seek proper treatment for their young ones, and potentially stop them spreading the illness. Dr Seth Rankin, founder of the London Doctors Clinic, advises parents to be up-to-date with their children’s immunisations and ensure they get sufficient sleep and wash their hands frequently. Packing a travel-sized hand sanitiser in school bags is a good preventative measure, although he admits: “Some bugs can’t be completely avoided.”

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Here are some common illnesses whose symptoms parents should be on the lookout for... Chickenpox Chickenpox is a common childhood illness and almost impossible to avoid. It causes a rash of red, itchy spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters after about 12 hours. A few days later, the blisters will crust over to form scabs that fall off after a week or two. The rash normally appears in clusters behind the ears, on the face and scalp, and under arms - on most parts of the body, in fact. The condition tends to be mild and clears up naturally in a week or two. Calamine lotion can ease the itching.

“Chickenpox is a common childhood illness and almost impossible to avoid”

Colds and flu For standard symptoms such as coughing, fever, sneezing, sore throats and body aches, resting is the best medicine, along with drinking plenty of water. If fever persists, children shouldn’t go to school and should see a GP.

Hand foot and mouth disease This infection causes mouth ulcers and spots on the hands and feet. It’s most common in children under 10 but can affect older children and adults. It usually clears up by itself within a week to 10 days. Early symptoms include a fever, loss of appetite, coughing and sore throat. After a day or two, painful mouth ulcers develop and small, red spots may appear on fingers, palms and soles. But Dr Rankin stresses: “The infection isn’t related to the foot and mouth disease which affects cattle, sheep and pigs.”

Stomach bugs

Measles Measles is a highly infectious viral illness and early symptoms can include a runny nose, red eyes, swollen eyelids, sneezing and fever. A few days later, a red-brown spotty rash appears and lasts for about a week. It starts behind the ears, before spreading around the head and neck, and eventually to the legs and the rest of the body. Anyone can get measles, although it’s most common in young children and typically clears by itself in about a week to 10 days if there are no complications. But measles can be a serious illness and up to one in 20 infected children develop pneumonia, while one-two infected children in every thousand die from it. A similar number are left with deafness or intellectual disability. “Make sure your children get the MMR immunisation,” Dr Rankin urges. “Their life, and those of their friends, may depend on it.”

“Measles is a highly infectious viral illness and early symptoms can include a runny nose, red eyes, swollen eyelids, sneezing and fever”

Children shouldn’t attend school if they’re vomiting or have diarrhoea, and parents should contact a GP if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours. Suffering children should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Stomach bugs aren’t usually serious and can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a GP if necessary.

Tonsillitis Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, usually caused by a viral infection or, less commonly, a bacterial infection. The condition is most common in children, teenagers and young adults. The main symptom is a sore throat with red swollen tonsils. Others include white pus-filled spots on the tonsils, pain on swallowing, a fever, coughing, headache, tiredness, pain in the ears or neck, and swollen glands in the neck. Bed rest and plenty of fluid will aid a speedy recovery.

Scarlet fever Scarlet fever is an infection that causes a blotchy, pink-red rash. It’s most common in young children but can affect people of any age. It often starts with a sore throat, headache and fever, and a rash appears 12-48 hours later. This starts as red blotches but turns into a pinkish-red rash that feels like sandpaper. The rash spreads to other areas, commonly the ears, neck, elbows, thighs and groin. It will turn white if you press a glass on it. Once a child has had scarlet fever, it’s unlikely they’ll get it again. D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7 / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 8 8 1

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Uk mums expose details of their children’s

‘WITCHING HOUR’

esearch by C&G Baby Club has revealed that almost two thirds of UK Mums experience a ‘witching hour’ with their children aged 0–2 years - with 81% claiming this time is their hardest and most testing as a parent. The survey was conducted to explore the ‘witching hour’ - crankiness in babies - revealing that almost half of mums say the witching hour is a daily phenomenon with nearly a quarter identifying 5-6pm as the peak time for it to occur. The witching hour lasts approximately 46 minutes and when it comes to the little ones, every day sees a spot of the grumps. The main triggers were identified as children needing sleep or being over-tired (56%), needing sleep but not yet tired enough for bed (42%), wanting attention (28%) and being frustrated by something else (26%). Typically seen during this witching hour include whining/whinging (62%); being irritable (62%); crying (52%) and not wanting to be put down (43%). The behaviour of babies during the witching hour can be known to take its toll on parents. 66% of the mums surveyed admitted to getting upset as

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a result and over one in ten say they have shed tears. The research goes on to explore the current techniques mums use to placate their grumpy children in a bid for a happier, relaxed household. It found that more than a quarter give them a dummy, while 19% sing to them. A fifth put them in front of the television and over one in ten admit handing over their tablet or smartphone. However, 89% of mums revealed they would be interested in help and inspiration on how to keep their baby/toddler happy during the witching hour. This is where C&G Baby Club’s commission of The Happy Song may lend a helping hand. They have re-released a ground-breaking track scientifically tested song created to make babies happy – which had over eight million listens on original release and is still popular now. Anne-Marie O’Leary, Editor-in-Chief at Netmums said “Mums tell us that the end of the day can be a tough time for both mum and baby, as tiredness kicks in on both sides and little ones often need far more comfort and attention. At Netmums we were intrigued by the concept of The Happy Song, and are fascinated to see what other mums make of it.”

MORE INFORMATION For more information on The Happy Song, head to www.netmums.com/baby/ your-happy-baby or www.soundofhappy.com Research: C&G Baby Club surveyed 1,700 mums of 0-2 year olds across the UK. Research was conducted by One Poll. For more details visit www.cgbabyclub.co.uk