BABIES & KIDS
PERFECT PLAYDATES
Explore endless imaginative play with the Plum® Garden Hut Wooden Playhouse! Encourage outdoor fun as children unleash their creativity in this charming play space. Let crafty kids customize their playhouse, transforming it into their ultimate dream retreat. Inspired by our garden, budding gardeners can turn it into a mini potting shed, nurturing seedlings and tending to shrubs. dobbies.com
PRACTICAL AND BEAUTIFUL
The E2 Kids collection is a range of properly built and well thought out furniture designed to be both a practical and a beautiful addition to your home. paintedfurnitureco.co.uk
EASY AS ABC
Tidy Books’ original kids’ wall shelf design makes it easy for your child to pick out books for themselves, encouraging independent reading. Simple, stylish award-winning design. Made with sustainable solid lime wood and lime plywood. uk.tidybooks.com
ECO-SAURUS
This Keeleco grey Triceratops Dino Kids Soft Toy is a great choice for all ages (even newborns). Made entirely from recycled materials (14 plastic bottles, to be precise), it’s a fun and eco-friendly addition to your child’s toy collection. Your little ones will love this lovely plush pal, and you’ll be proud to be a part of helping the planet. sueryder.org/shop
DIZZY DUCKS
This sweet little duck crochet kit is sure to brighten your day, with this fun design. Our cute duck is crocheted using high quality blended yarn and measures approximately 25 cm tall when he is finished. Ideal for making a gift for a special little person in your life. rosyposypetals.co.uk
THE ‘LITTLE VIP CLUB’ AT THE LANESBOROUGH
Create treasured family memories, specially tailored for little ones.
Designed for children up to the age of 16 to inject fun and adventure into an urban family getaway, the Little VIP Club at The Lanesborough in Knightsbridge, part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, offers an innovative range of familyfriendly activities, and for kids and teens to receive special perks and VIP treatment throughout their visit.
The hotel’s dedicated Concierge team is on hand to help create the perfect itineraries and days out in London for the entire family, including trips to Harry Potter World, the London Zoo, Natural History Museum and Thames riverboat cruises. And after long days out spent exploring London, upon return to The Lanesborough, families can sit back and relax before a restful night’s sleep. Connecting rooms in multiple bedroom options are also available for the utmost family privacy and relaxation.
EXCLUSIVE ACTIVITIES AND PERKS FOR MEMBERS OF THE LITTLE VIP CLUB INCLUDE:
• The Lanesborough Welcome – upon arrival, children are gifted with their own personalised Little VIP Business Wallet to present at any restaurant in the hotel for a complimentary soft drink or ice cream.
• Afternoon Tea – families can delight in a quintessentially British pastime to cherish, with the Children’s Afternoon Tea in The Lanesborough Grill served with a selection of playful pastries, cupcakes, scones, sandwiches and the most chocolatey hot chocolates.
• In-room Entertainment – time to relax and cuddle up with a movie from The Lanesborough’s media library and popcorn delivered by the suite’s personal butler. Treasure hunts can also be prepared in-room – perfect for a rainy day.
• Splash Hours – The Lanesborough Club & Spa - Mademoiselle by L’Atelier Green welcomes children to enjoy time in the pool on weekdays between 3.30pm to 5pm and between 7am – 9am and 4.30pm – 6pm on weekends
• Trail Maps – the Concierge team offers a range of maps for VIPs to explore the hotel’s enviable neighbourhood and Royal Parks, as well as a variety of bespoke itineraries to truly make the most of time in London.
• Horse-riding in Hyde Park – just across the road is one of London’s largest and most beautiful parks, and where better to have a horse-riding adventure with dedicated instructors? Alternatively, little guests can enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride –additional costs apply.
• Mocktail Classes – for that extra bit of fun, The Lanesborough’s talented bartenders offer ‘young adults’ the chance to learn basic taste mixing and mocktail shaking, creating concoctions for the whole family to enjoy.
• Little Butler Bootcamp – to learn how to perform traditional butler duties, such as setting the table or how to make the perfect cup of tea with the hotel’s expert butlers – Age 3+
• Meet Lilibet – guests can meet the most furmidable member of the team, Lilibet, a two-yearold Siberian Forest Cat (a hypoallergenic breed), for fun photo opportunities.
• Mini Manicure – children can add a sparkle to their nails with a pampering mini manicure in the luxurious Lanesborough Club & Spa - Mademoiselle by L’Atelier Green – additional costs apply.
THE DETAILS
Families booking two nights or more in one of The Lanesborough’s twobedroom suites or connecting rooms will enjoy 25% off their stay. Offering the perfect family escape, the offer includes: two luxury rooms or a two-bedroom suite for two adults and two children up to the age of 16 with 25% off both rooms; daily English breakfast for two adults and two children up to the age of 16); Little VIP Club amenities and activities; a VIP welcome gift and surprise for children; late 2pm check-out.
For more information, visit oetkercollection.com/hotels/thelanesborough/the-hotel/family
The Lanesborough, Hyde Park Corner, London, SW1X 7TA
REGENCY SPIRIT, CONTEMPORARY GLAMOUR
Trusted by over 1 million users worldwide, Dreamegg Sleep Lite D11 Max is a lifesaver for sleep-deprived parents. It earns the prestigious titles of Best Seller and Amazon’s Choice. Simply search “Dreamegg” on Amazon to find it.
Providing 21 soothing sounds, from classic white noise to gentle lullabies and nature melodies, the Sleep Lite D11 Max helps settle crying babies and ensures longer, more restful sleep.
Equipped with long-lasting battery, the Sleep Lite D11 Max offers worry-free, portable functionality that lasts through the night and beyond. It’s perfect for parents needing uninterrupted naps on the go.
The Sleep Lite D11 Max features an ultra-portable, cordless design, making it a travel essential. Its compact size and included lanyard allow easy attachment to strollers, car seats, or suitcases, ensuring a peaceful sleep experience anywhere. www.dreamegg.com
MOKEE: Scandinavianinspired nursery furniture and accessories
Mokee is now in its 12th Year, proudly manufacturing premium Scandinavian-inspired nursery furniture and accessories for babies and children.
Our furniture is carefully designed with both style and functionality in mind, while following strict safety standards. Manufactured in Europe, our pieces are predominantly made from natural materials, ensuring the highest quality for our little ones.
At Mokee, we understand the importance of providing the best environment for your baby, and choosing the right cot is a significant part of that equation.
If you opt for a cotbed, it offers the advantage of converting into a toddler bed allowing it to grow with your child.
Mokee manufactures cot beds in these two standard sizes, 120x60 cm and 140x70 cm, making it a long-term investment in your child’s comfort.
Your choice ultimately depends on the available space in your nursery and your personal preference!
Made from 100% solid beechwood, our Cot Beds collection is an award-winning product, wellknown for its unique colours and compact size to fit your needs and budget.
The collection features seven adjustable base heights, and one side can easily be removed when
“All our cots come with a 3-year guarantee. We have sold thousands of these iconic cot beds over the past 12 years”
your child is around 24 months, extending the lifespan of the Mokee cot bed and saving you a lot of space! You can further enhance its utility by adding pillows and using it as a mini sofa for your toddler.
All our cots come with a 3-year guarantee. We have sold thousands of these iconic cot beds over the past 12 years.
Happy Babies all over the world!
Complete your Mokee cot bed with our Mokee natural mattress, which guarantees not only comfort but also safety. Handcrafted from 100% natural materials that are naturally hypoallergenic, dust mite resistant and temperature regulating, it is the perfect choice for eco-conscious parents.
This firm mattress features a two-sided natural wool layer with an organic coconut latex mat in between, and covered with an untreated cotton cover. This is all, all natural, naturally!
Enjoy free delivery on cot beds and receive a 10% discount on a range of cot bed accessories such as the naturel mattress, cot teething rail, cot organizer, and fitted sheet! mokee.co.uk
The Mum Collective
Where luxury meets maternity and nursing clothes, the mummy owned business has been creating beautifully crafted loungewear since 2021. Whether you’re expecting your first or welcoming your third, The Mum Collective ranges have been designed to journey with you throughout motherhood.
Founder, Sophie Baldwin, understands that during each trimester and postpartum, you want to feel comfortable but also on trend. Their awardwinning collections have been designed to do just that. Hand-drawn and created using carefully selected, high-quality fabrics - no matter if you’re relaxing at home with your little one or heading out for a coffee with friends, each piece is here to make you feel a little more…you.
At The Mum Collective, the team have taken the time to understand what mother’s and mothers-to-be want. Paying extra attention to the smallest of details, from the cuts and shapes to fabrics and fastenings. Whether you are shopping for your maternity and nursing essentials or something a little extra special, endless amount
of love has gone into each of their unique pieces.
Striving to make your motherhood journey as comfortable and luxurious as possible, The Mum Collective is proud of what they have brought to the market for mummies and their little ones.
Launching in August is their next collection, which includes a stunning lounge dress. Handdrawn by founder, Sophie, the piece has been designed to journey with you through every stage of motherhood. Dress the Malika knitted wrap dress up or down, this versatile piece will see you from bump to breastfeeding and beyond.
The Mum Collective aims to serve the women of the world who wish to look good and feel confident during such an incredible time, whether they want to relax at home with their feet up or head to town with their friends.
You can browse and shop all their collections, Essentials, Lounge, Little TMC and Slumber, by visiting themumcollective.co.uk.
Buy once, wear forever.
“Founder, Sophie Baldwin, understands that during each trimester and postpartum, you want to feel comfortable but also on trend”
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF DRINKING LESS: A MEDICAL PERSPECTIVE
by Dr Angela Rai, The London General Practice
Are we truly aware of the risks associated with alcohol consumption?
Alcohol is a powerful substance that can impact nearly every part of the body, including the brain, bones, and heart. Understanding these risks is crucial, especially for those striving to lead healthier lives.
UK drinking guidelines suggest that there is no entirely safe level of alcohol consumption. To minimise health risks, it is recommended that both men and women do not exceed 14 units of alcohol per week. It is also advisable to spread this consumption evenly over three or more days rather than engaging in binge drinking. Additionally, aiming for at least two alcohol-free days each week can provide significant health benefits.
The short- and long-term effects of alcohol are profound. Small amounts can impair important functions such as speech and movement. Mediumterm effects include slowed reactions and impaired memory, while long-term consumption can lead to serious mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and memory problems. Alcohol is a depressant, and although it might temporarily boost mood, it often leads to long-term psychological issues.
The heart is particularly vulnerable to the effects
THE DETAILS
If you would like to enquire about health screening, please contact The London General Practice on 0207 935 1000 or info@thelondongeneralpractice.com
114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL Visit thelondongeneralpractice.com for more details
of alcohol. Drinking large amounts at once can dangerously slow the heart rate and breathing. Chronic excessive drinking is linked to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The liver, too, suffers from long-term alcohol use, leading to conditions such as fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
Beyond the internal damage, alcohol can negatively affect social well-being, contributing to poor sleep, decreased performance at work, and neglected responsibilities at home. Regular consumption also contributes to weight gain and obesity due to the high calorie content of alcoholic drinks.
For those who choose to drink, moderation is key. Opt for healthy alternatives such as mocktails, herbal teas, and flavoured water. These alternatives provide the enjoyment of a social drink without the associated health risks.
If you have any concerns about your alcohol consumption, it is advisable to seek medial advice and talk to your GP or other local alcohol services.
THE FERTILITY CENTRE
Formerly the Assisted Conception Unit, The Fertility Centre is a longstanding centre of excellence for fertility treatment and care at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. In 2021 they enlarged the Centre with a new satellite service at West Middlesex University Hospital, extending patient care and convenient access across West London.
The Centre provides a broad and comprehensive range of fertility services to their patients –including IVF, ICSI and IUI – but their areas of particular expertise, include the management of women and couples over the age of 40, premature ovarian ageing or low ovarian reserve, and male or sperm-related infertility issues.
Notwithstanding their expertise in these complex fields, The Fertility Centre continues to perform very well in its success rates. They hold one of the highest clinical pregnancy rates amongst NHS hospitals in the UK (please visit hfea.gov.uk for further information) and welcome NHS-funded patients and those seeking to selffund their care and treatment.
As well as treatment for those trying to conceive now, The Fertility Centre offer services for those who are considering their ability to conceive in the future. Fertility preservation through egg or embryo freezing is becoming increasingly popular and they can provide these services through their dedicated Fertility Preservation programme.
There are a number of reasons why you may wish to preserve your fertility:
• For social reasons
• Preparing to transition
• Ahead of treatment for cancer such as chemoor radiotherapy
• If you have been diagnosed with gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts
If you are thinking about your fertility health for future years, they also provide a range of fertility assessments - with packages for individuals as well as couples. Alongside tests and assessments, expert clinicians can explain your results and advise you accordingly.
In addition to their clinical expertise and range of treatment options, The Fertility Centre understands the inevitable stress and anxiety of fertility treatment. They are committed to supporting you every step of the way throughout your treatment. This includes sessions with their British Infertility Counselling Association and UK Council for Psychotherapy accredited counsellors.
THE DETAILS
The Fertility Centre team is always happy to support you and answer any questions. If you want to learn more or are ready to start your fertility journey, please contact them on 020 3315 8585 or email chelwest.acu@nhs.net. chelwestprivatecare.co.uk/ fertility-centre
The Kensington Wing
The Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women and birthing people with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.
Located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – part of one of the UK’s top rated hospital Trusts – your baby’s and your safety and wellbeing are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times 24/7, dedicated to the needs of our patients.
To ensure the safety of women, birthing people and birth partners, The Kensington Wing has important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven, and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team and are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.
THE DETAILS
If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit thekensingtonwing.co.uk
The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the opportunity to discuss midwife-led care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women and birthing people who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.
The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of their experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They continue to support you through the postnatal period, including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.
The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.
Cypher Coders summer camps
Cypher Coders have just unveiled the ‘Save the World’ theme for their 2024 coding and STEAM summer camps. This year, the camps will focus on environmental issues, from ocean plastic to animal conservation, electric cars and eco cities, empowering children to explore tech-driven solutions to global challenges.
The camps offer an inspiring experience for children aged 5-14, blending coding education with creative science, technology, engineering, art and maths (STEAM) activities in a fun and supportive environment. Each day at Cypher Coders begins with an educational session exploring the camp’s theme, followed by a fun coding project that reinforces these concepts and develops campers’ programming skills. After lunch, children dive into hands-on STEAM activities such as building and controlling robots, programming and testing anti-poaching alarms and wearable tech projects. Alongside the focus on personal skills development, there’s plenty of group activities to foster teamwork and make new friends.
Described as a leading coding school by UK Tech News, it’s clear that Cypher Coders believes in making learning fun! Their curriculum is designed to ignite excitement and creativity while developing critical thinking and problemsolving skills. Indeed, each day is crafted by highly qualified teachers with research careers in pedagogy. Notably, their Head of Education regularly lectures in Design and Technology (DT) Education at the University of Cambridge and produces academic research on gender and DT. The result is highly engaging sessions informed by the most up-to-date teaching practise that appeal equally to both girls and boys. This is reflected in the 50:50 split between boys and girls at Cypher camps. A commitment to small class sizes also guarantees personalized attention and support for each child from Cypher-trained teachers.
Delivered at prestigious private schools across London, these inspiring camps kick off on 8th July at St John’s Wood. Ealing, Fulham, and Notting Hill locations open their doors on 15th July. Across all locations, camps conclude on 16th August.
THE DETAILS
Children aged 5-14 years.
First day at St John’s Wood: 8th July.
First day at Ealing, Fulham, and Notting Hill: 15th July.
Final day across all locations: 16th August.
Ofsted registered.
Childcare vouchers accepted.
Exclusive 15% off any booking with LIFE15, or use SUMMER200 for £200 off when you book two weeks.
Visit cyphercoders.com or scan the QR code opposite for more info and bookings.
REAL ENGINEERING FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS
Over the last few years, a lot of coding-based summer camps have popped up, as parents have become increasingly aware of the value of STEM. It seems that almost every camp is offering some form of ‘Tech’ at their events, but there’s one that remains unique in the field.
Over 17 years after Tech Camp (www.techcamp. org.uk) started, they’re still the only camp worldwide that focusses on real engineering where campers build their own robots, 3D printers, and drones. And students they get to take everything home with them at the end.
Created by Tom Ward, an award-winning educator and engineer, the success of Tech Camp is in a big part down to his vision to create experiences that students ordinarily can’t get until they study university-level degrees. So how can they get 9-year-olds doing real-world engineering?
“It’s simple”, says Tom. “The key is to give kids the tools real engineers use and show them how they can design their own inventions, gadgets and toys. Their imagination and enthusiasm then take over. We teach how to use professional software that’s used by university students and professional engineers, to show children how they can be the creators of tomorrow’s technology rather than just passive consumers. Once they can see what they can make themselves, they’re hooked, and being
“The
key is to give kids the tools real engineers use and show them how they can design their own inventions, gadgets and toys”
able to take their 3D printer or robot home at the end means that the learning lasts way longer than the camp itself.”
Tom is the first one to admit that the events aren’t cheap, starting at over £600 for a week, but with average group sizes of six students, tutors from institutions like UCL and Oxford, and takehome equipment like professional 3D printers and cinematic drones, it’s a learning experience a step (or three) above what’s typical in the industry.
Tech Camp has events running in July and August this summer in Fulham, Oxfordshire and Winchester (its flagship residential camp). For more information and to book, visit techcamp.org.uk
FAIRY FESTIVAL
16-18 August 2024
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to visit fairyland, then read on, as the multiple award winning 3 Wishes Fairy Festival (16-18 August) could be the small family friendly festival for you! 3 magical days and nights of fairy delight, organiser and author of ‘Fairy Whispering’, 111 Magical Practices to Connect with the Fairies, Karen Kay, says,
“This year, we have more than 100 workshops, talks and activities for adults and young people, all included in the ticket price, we have a mermaid lagoon with real mermaids! Live music with local grass-roots performers and some traveling from overseas. The festival is fully family friendly, with something for all ages. So parents and guardians can watch a band whilst their children are partaking in an activity within view. You’ll find bubble fairies wandering the site, fairy circus shows, cacao ceremonies, and a fairy market, selling everything from flower crowns and crystals
BABY CLOTHES WITH ZIPS
to clothing and self-care lotions and potions.”
With plant-based food sold on the site, the festival takes place at Garslade Farm, Godney, Somerset, near Glastonbury, with day, weekend and the full three-day tickets available.
“This year, we have more than 100 workshops, talks and activities for adults and young people, all included in the ticket price, we have a mermaid lagoon with real mermaids!”
THE DETAILS
See fairyfestival.co.uk for more information and tickets. You’ll also find the festival on social media @3wishesfairyfestival
Photography: Danniella Jaine Photography
THE LITTLE GYM
Excitement is building as The Little Gym prepares to open its doors this September in Wimbledon Quarter.
Renowned for its unique approach to children’s physical, cognitive and social development, The Little Gym Wimbledon will offer a state-of-the-art facility and research-backed curriculum designed to nurture young minds and bodies through gymnastics, music, and fun.
Catering to children aged 4 months to 12 years, The Little Gym Wimbledon provides a variety of classes tailored to different age groups and skill levels. From Parent & Child sessions for the youngest members to more advanced gymnastics for older children, each class is designed to build confidence, coordination and social skills in a safe and supportive environment.
The facility offers home-comfort and convenience in a luxurious setting, including an exclusive quiet lounge for nursing parents and a multi-purpose room that serves as a cafe, party venue, holiday-camp craft room and reading corner. The viewing lounge features banquette seating, work stations for parents and a kitchen for coffee. Located in Wimbledon Quarter, parents
can run next door to Third Space for a workout or visit The Huddle and nearby shops while their children enjoy class.
As part of its grand opening, The Little Gym Wimbledon is offering an exclusive Founder Membership to the first 100 families who sign up. This limited-time offer includes savings of over £70, providing an excellent opportunity for families to join at a discounted rate. The Founder Membership includes discounted benefits, guest passes and early access to the gym’s programs and events, making it an attractive option for parents wanting to give their children a head start in physical activity and social engagement from September.
With its emphasis on fun, safety, and developmental growth, The Little Gym Wimbledon is set to become a cherished destination for Wimbledon families. The countdown to September has begun, and the community eagerly awaits the opening of this exciting new facility.
Get in touch today to secure your founder membership before they’re all gone!
wimbledon@thelittlegym.co.uk 02080905960
