Mums magazine summer 16

Mums SUMMER 2016

9 MONTHS

COUNTING! Mum-to-be must-haves for a happy and stress-free pregnancy

HAPPY FAMILY HOLIDAYS Family summer holiday inspiration

Sunny daze Help your children to embrace the great outdoors

WATER WAYS Holiday essentials for pool and seaside safety this summer www.mums-magazine.co.uk

Mums Magazine Summer 2016

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Coat chicken pieces in Linwoods milled organic Flax, Sunflower & Pumpkin Seeds and Shelled Hemp before grilling to create a tasty and nutritious post-workout meal. Visit linwoodshealthfoods.com for more nutritious and delicious recipes.

linwoodshealthfoods.com 2

Available in Tesco, Sainsburys, Waitrose, ASDA, Holland & Barrett, Ocado and all health food stores in the UK or visit linwoodshealthfoods.com. www.mums-magazine.co.uk Mums Magazine Summer 2016

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elcome to the summer issue of Mums Magazine.There is no better time for families to enjoy quality time together than during the summer holidays, not least because the coming months often see the arrival of a long-awaited annual break. If you’re looking for some last minute holiday inspiration, turn to page 10 for our round up of some of the best staycation and overseas break ideas. As some of us who’ve travelled with children before will know, negotiating the logistics of A to B with a little one can be heavy and complicated work and knowing what to take to make the transition from home to hotel can be confusing, which is why we’ve narrowed it down to some of the most useful items (page 13) to help you on your way. Above all, one of the most important things you can take away with you when travelling with children is knowledge, and this is never more so the case than with sun and water safety (page 18).

Know-how is everything when you’re a mum, and during the school break, knowing how exactly to fill the days is invaluable. To help you plan your play diary we’ve got some top tips on outdoor activities (page 8) including how to organise the perfect picnic (page 22).

With ice cream and treats abounding in the warm weather, there is no better time to check your children’s dental health (page 24) and reign in their sweet tooth with some of our healthy fun alternatives (page 14).

Enjoy the issue!

4. Nappy rash Natural ways to treat nappy rash

6. Hands free parenting

Make light work of multi-tasking

7.9 Months and counting Mum-to-be must haves

8. Sunny daze

Help kids embrace the great outdoors

10. Happy family holidays Summer holiday inspiration

13. The family holiday pack list What to take on your first break away

14. Food wars

How to win the healthy eating battle

17. Bubble trouble

Caroline Seekings

The new baby bathing routine

18. Water ways

Editor

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Holiday essentials for pool-side safety

20. New mum must-haves Our top 5 useful parenting products

22. Pimp your picnic

Give your hamper a healthy make-over

23. Baby sitting

22

The best chairs, positioners and seats

24. Toothy tales

What to do when your baby starts teething

26. Fruity beauty

This season’s freshest beauty products

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mums magazine publication

Information in Mums Magazine is not intended as a substitute for diagnosis, prescription and/or treatment by a Medical Professional.

Opinions expressed in Mums Magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher, and the magazine is in no way liable for any such opinions. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the content of this publication is accurate, we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. No advertisement, article or image may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers.

The Team: Editor Caroline Seekings caroline@lifestyle-magazines.co.uk Tel: 07834 233346

Produced by:

Photography Richard Jones Photography www.richardjones-photography.com

LIFESTYLE

MAGAZINES

Get in touch: T: 07834 233346 E: caroline@lifestyle-magazines.co.uk www.lifestyle-magazines.co.uk

www.mums-magazine.co.uk

Features Editor Chrissy Hayes chrissy@lifestyle-magazines.co.uk

Imagery www.istockphoto.com

Kim IT support

Caroline Editor

Chrissy Features Editor

Amy Column ist

Richard her Photograp

Meet the team Mums Magazine Summer 2016

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Rash

decisions

Natural solutions to preventing and treating nappy rash in babies Many babies suffer from nappy rash at some time in their first 18 months. Nappy rash can be caused by prolonged contact with urine or stools, although having sensitive skin does increase propensity towards the condition. In addition, certain soaps, detergents, wipes and also chafing can be contributing factors. Nappy rash is characterised by red patches on your baby’s bottom, or the whole area may be red.

The skin may look sore and feel hot to touch, and there may be spots, pimples or blisters.

There are certain trigger times1 when your baby may be more prone to nappy rash

Weaning

Any change in diet can lead to looser stools and a greater likelihood of nappy rash affecting your baby.

Common Cold

The best approach to treating nappy rash is prevention, and changing wet or soiled nappies as soon as possible can help to lessen the risk of irritation. Young babies need changing as many as 10 or 12 times a day, and older babies at least six to eight times. Be sure to clean the whole nappy area thoroughly, wiping from front to back and use plain water or baby wipes. It also helps to leave the nappy off for as long and as often as you can in order to let fresh air get to the skin. Barrier creams, such as zinc and castor oil may also help.

When a baby has a cold, stools are often looser, meaning that nappy rash is more likely to occur.

If your baby does get nappy rash, you can treat it with a nappy rash cream, although if the rash doesn’t go away or becomes bright red with white or red pimples, they may have a thrush infection. In this case, you’ll need to use an anti-fungal cream, available either from the pharmacist or on prescription from your GP. Ask your pharmacist or health visitor for advice.

Change in diet

Teething

A runny nose, lots of saliva and diarrhoea are often the signs of teething. It’s also a time when nappy rash can strike.

Antibiotics

Nappy rash is often linked to antibiotic use. Antibiotics may mildly upset the digestive system leading to diarrhoea and nappy rash.

First sleep through the night

Sleeping through the night means that nappy changing may be delayed, making nappy rash more likely to develop.

Such as moving on from breast milk may lead to more frequent and watery stools, potentially leading to nappy rash.

Diarrhoea

Nappy rash usually starts when the baby’s delicate skin is in prolonged contact with urine and faeces in the nappy. It’s much more difficult to prevent this if your baby has diarrhoea.

is here to help!

1.Morris H, The bottom line on nappy rash, British Journal of Midwifery, September 2012, Vol 20, No 9, pages 540-543

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is here to help!

We all know how unpredictable babies can be!

Even if you follow a regular routine, no two days are the same, and there are certain trigger times1 when your baby may be more prone to nappy rash 1.Morris H, The bottom line on nappy rash, British Journal of Midwifery, September 2012, Vol 20, No 9, pages 540-543

1

we an ing

2

com mon cold

Treatment

for Nappy Rash For occasions when it does strike, Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment can be used to treat nappy rash, relieving the irritation and redness.

3 teething

4 antib iotics

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fi rst slee p through the nig ht

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chan ge in di et

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di ar rhoe a

Protection

from Nappy Rash For daily protection, use Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment or Easy Spray Barrier Lotion at every nappy change to help prevent nappy rash.

Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine. Always read the label.

www.metanium.co.uk

www.mums-magazine.co.uk

Mums Magazine Summer 2016

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babies’ bums

WORKING MUM Hands-free parenting just got easier with the launch of LapBaby - an ingenious seating solution that takes baby-wearing to lap level.

Designed to keep baby secure whilst seated on the lap, LapBaby enables parents to carry on with everyday activities, whilst nurturing and comforting their baby. LapBaby frees both hands so that the parent can easily interact with their child to aid early cognitive, physical and social development. Ideal for multitasking, LapBaby also presents a range of other advantages to the parents, providing a simple solution to ‘one-handed’ mealtimes, working from home, and socialising with friends. LapBaby is extremely versatile and can make a great travel companion, particularly on flights.  Created for babies aged 3-months and upwards, LapBaby incorporates inspired features, with a universal attachment strap to accommodate baby’s favourite toy, teether or soother, and a wipe-clean, detachable lap protector. Made with comfort in mind, the adjustable, padded waist belt incorporates Velcro for quick, easy fitting, and sturdy clip fastenings for security.

LapBaby is both compact and lightweight and comes complete with a useful storage pouch, which can be easily stowed in a changing bag or the shopping basket of a stroller. Produced in a neutral colour way for unisex appeal, LapBaby retails at £24.99.

HANDS

-FREE

PARENTING ‘From birth,

babies sleep for up to 20 hours a day, so it is important to create The latest the best sleeping inventions to environment possible’

help make light work of multitasking

ON THE MOVE

HAPPY SHOPPER

Swedish family-owned company, BabyBjörn recently launched the Baby Carrier We Air which is made from a unique breathable, soft mesh fabric and comes with an ergonomic waist belt, structured head and back support and a medically approved wide-leg position for the baby.

Bambella Designs Boutique trolley liners are designed with baby’s comfort in mind. Trolleys are renowned for carrying a number of germs that can cause ill health for children. The trolley liner has been designed to protect your little one from germs and offers a stylish and comfortable mode of transportation when shopping. It is both naturally hygienic and easy to clean. The liner is made from a range of stylish fabrics that are 100% cotton with a comfortable 350 gram density inlay.There are two holes in the back of the liner for the seat straps to feed through, a pocket on the inside for your keys and two loops on the front of the seat to clip a toy or dummy onto.

Babywearing can get very warm for you and the baby, and if he or she dribbles you often end up with a wet patch on your front, or on the carrier, too. BabyBjörn has developed their own mesh fabric, ensuring that it is absolutely safe and soft against the little baby’s skin and the unique three-layer soft mesh material reduces body heat and moisture.

Keeping parents and babies cool is, however, not the only benefit of this breathable material. Its durability allows for frequent machine washing and the material dries quickly, meaning parents can use it again in no time.

www.littlewarblers.co.uk For further information visit: www.lap-baby.com

www.babybjorn.co.uk

Not enough hands? A baby carrier could help you get chores done whilst keeping baby happy

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BUMP FIRST The FitBumpBox® is a beautifully presented box, which includes a resistance band, a handmade Pilates cushion and a mini Pilates ball. A little surprise, which has been specially selected with healthy mums in mind, is also included as a little treat! To complete the package, every FitBumpBox® comes with a subscription to Dr Joanna Helcke’s award winning program. Users will choose between the Adorable Box offering access to the service for 3 months, or for just £10 extra, the Awesome Box, which comes with a whole year’s subscription. RRP: £49 (Adorable Box), £59 (The Awesome Box) Stockist: www.fitbumpbox.com

PACK YOUR BAGS! Many expectant mums panic about what to pack in their hospital bag, in which case a prepacked option can help you have one less thing to worry about. myHospitalBag.co.uk gives you everything you need in one bag, and is cheaper than buying the items separately.

It’s all about the

BABY MOON

Retreat-Yourself is a new company located in the Cotswolds specialising in pregnancy and motherhood retreats offering a range of luxury breaks for mums and mums-to-be.

As well as single day retreats, there is a choice of mid-week and weekend retreats focused on quality relaxation in luxury surroundings.

The retreats are run by pregnancy and birth expert, trained nurse, doula and natal hypnotherapist, Heather Guerrini, and her daughter in law, Eliza Guerrini who is an occupational therapist and natal hypnotherapist.

In 2012 when Eliza was pregnant with her second child she searched, unsuccessfully, for a pregnancy retreat which would provide her with respite after weeks of difficult morning sickness. She got thinking and devised Retreat-Yourself with the view to give women a chance to escape, be looked after and connect with their unborn baby.

Embrace your Pregnancy Milestones Pregnancy is such an exciting and lifechanging experience - but it can also be quite scary and overwhelming. Pregnancy Milestones covers everything you need to know about pre-conception, pregnancy and birth. Pregnancy Milestones lets you know what to expect from every week of your pregnancy, ensures you are armed with information about what is happening to and inside your body and prepares you for birth.

Mother & Baby have pulled together the best experts in their fields, from a GP and midwife to a nutrition consultant and clinical psychologist, to provide unparalleled, reliable guidance and information. Overflowing with up-to-the-minute medical advice, helpful hints and invaluable tips, Pregnancy Milestones is the only resource you need to navigate your pregnancy with confidence.

The book will take you through your pregnancy, covering all three trimesters on a week-by-week and month-by-month basis. £12.99 Published by Hamlyn

Between them Heather and Eliza offer an impressive range of expertise and experience, allowing them to offer truly nurturing and holistic retreats.

To find out more visit www.retreat-yourself.co.uk.

9 MONTHS.... counting!

&

Mum-to-be must-haves to help you enjoy a happy and stress-free pregnancy

www.mums-magazine.co.uk

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Sunny daze Encourage your kids to embrace the great outdoors

50 Evening Adventures encourages families to make the most of their 5 to 9, those evening hours after school and after work. Here are simple and exciting ideas from the authority on family adventure for spending time together out of doors, during the working week.

The book is divided into two main sections with ideas for places to GO – such as an allotment, skate park, marina, and things to DO – such as forage, build, climb.

A shorter final section offers ten healthy and filling dinner recipes that can be made or cooked outdoors. £12.99

DEN BUILDING The Den Book is full of exciting ideas for amazing dens, forts and camps. Building a den, fort, treehouse or hideaway is part of childhood’s imaginary world, where anything might be possible. Dens are universal play places: you can make them almost anywhere, out of almost anything.

How about a cardboard box castle or a fairy tent under the washing line in the garden?

OUTDOOR INSPIRATION The Usborne Outdoor Book is a beautifully illustrated hardback book full of inspiring ideas to get children exploring the outdoors, from catching crabs and building a shelter to stargazing, wildlife watching and more. It’s the perfect book to get kids out and about and exploring nature during the summer holidays.

A recent poll found that 78% of parents are concerned their children don’t spend enough time interacting with nature and wildlife. Helping to overcome this problem is a checklist of twelve fun outdoor activities, all featured within this book, which can be done in the woods, by the seaside, in a city park or even in your own back garden.

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Mums Magazine Summer 2016

The Den Book is packed with inspiring photos and descriptive text to tempt children (and adults) into building their own amazing dens outdoors.

THE DEN BOOK Fiona Danks & Jo Schofield Price: £12.99 ӏ paperback

Milano Swing http://www.littletikes.co.uk

www.mums-magazine.co.uk

THE TANGO SWING SEAT The Tango Swing Seat has recently launched in the UK and allows an adult to swing face-to-face with a toddler, enhancing positive interaction and child development through intergenerational play. Swings and other playground equipment generally help children to strengthen their sense of gravity and balance, whilst boosting their visual and auditory systems. http://www.hags-smp.co.uk/play/tango-swing-seat/

THE OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND

GO GREEN The Go Green Playhouse teaches little ones about the environment from 2 years+ and the importance of thinking green for the future. New and completely unique, this modern playhouse is filled with earth-friendly features and activities for the ultimate in eco-fun.

Key features includ solar panels power interior LED lights, a working pump sink (fed by rain barrel), recycling centre with dual removable bins and a planting box and water reservoir.

Go Green Playhouse (RRP: £269.99) www.littletikes.co.uk

www.mums-magazine.co.uk

Mountain Warehouse, the UK’s largest outdoor retailer, recently revealed in a study aimed at encouraging children to get outside and explore their Outdoor Playground, that British kids spend just four hours a week playing outdoors, 50% less than their parents did. This study kicks off a wider campaign with renowned TV explorer and adventure seeker, Steve Backshall, who has created an exciting new range of children’s outdoor clothing for Mountain Warehouse.

The study found that outdoor pastimes are being forgotten, with almost one quarter of British kids have never climbed a tree and 8 out of 10 British parents preferring to keep their children indoors for reasons of safety. The study of 2,000 British parents shows that kids are missing out on traditional outdoor pastimes that are free and accessible to every child; a massive 60% have never built a treehouse or a swing.

EMBRACING PLAY TIME A summer with no scheduled activities at all . . . The thought was tempting, but was it possible? It would be like something out of the 1950s. Could they really have a summer like that?

Juggling the expectations of her sons Sam (“I’m bored!”) and Jack (“Can I just stay in my pajamas?”), Pam Lobley, blogger, journalist and playwright, sets out to give her kids an old-fashioned summer. During the shapeless days, she studies up on the myths and realities of the 1950s. With her trademark wit and candor, she reveals what we can learn from those long-ago families, why raising kids has changed so drastically, and most importantly, how to stop time once in a while and just play. £10.95

by Pam Lobley

OUT & ABOUT WITH BABY This amazing new carrier supports babies from newborn to three years, with front and back carrying, outward facing options and an inbuilt infant insert which provudes perfect positioning and comfort for mini-passengers and parents alike.

Key features include water and dirt-repellent outer material and a highly breathable mesh fabric which is lightweight and quick-drying. Available in turquise and black/red from leading retailers. £169.99 http://www.babybjörn.co.uk

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HAPPY FAMILY HOLIDAYS Family summer holiday inspritation

In its new international travel survey, travel site momondo.co.uk discovers which types of holiday are most-popular for Brits. Surveying 1,013 British people, momondo found beach holidays and city breaks came first and second most-popular by far, with fewer choosing to camp, rent holiday homes, take road trips, ski or book spa breaks.

Here momondo delves deeper into the data, analysing our travel habits and how we compare to other nations.

Sun, Sea and Sand It seems the traditional appeal of the bucket and spade still holds strong for Brits. Topping the list of breaks, 46% of Brits claimed they will be taking a beach holiday this year. Although this statistic for Brits was 2% lower than last year, it does appear sun and sand appeals more to women, with almost half planning a beach break in 2016 at 48%, compared to a fewer 44% of British males.

Urban breaks momondo’s Annual Global Travel Survey found city breaks are still a popular travel choice for Brits.

These were second-most popular choice of trip, with 37% of Brits planning one. The travel site also found city breaks appeal more to men, with 41% planning one compared to 34% of women.

Happy Campers Third-most popular holiday choice for Brits is camping, with 15% pitching up this year. In comparison, the two nationalities jointly loving tents are Americans and Russians - 30% of both groups stated they will be camping out this year.

Conversely, the Finnish do not regard camping so highly – they had the least recipients sleeping outdoors on vacation this year at just 4%.

Discover the world together at the UK’s only Family Travel Show The Family Travel Show, now in partnership with the Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday and Mail Online, is pleased to announce new dates for 2016. Taking place at London’s Olympia on 1-2 October, this exciting show is the UK’s only exhibition completely dedicated to family travel adventures.

Families come in all shapes and sizes – and so do the holidays they take! Whether it’s a laidback beach break, an educational city stay or an exotic jungle trek, family travel definitely isn’t one size fits all territory. And just like all the best children’s stories, family trips must have one thing in common – a happy ending and a trail of joyful memories along the way.

Villa vacations 12% of Brits plan to rent or visit their own holiday house abroad this year, with 12% of Brits planning to rent or stay independently in the UK. This accommodation choice maintained its popularity year-on-year – in 2015 12% of Brits stayed in a property abroad and 13% in the UK.

To ensure you get the most out of your next family getaway, The Family Travel Show is the ideal launch pad from which to explore new holiday destinations and ideas. This is your chance to discover something different, maybe dip a toe into the world of cruising or go wild and plan a safari. You can choose from family-friendly villas and exciting ski trips to tropical rainforest retreats and all-inclusive luxury resorts.

And who is staying put?

Contrasting all 20 nations, the highest number of any nationality stating they will not be going on any holidays in 2016 were Brits, at 10%, up 3% from last year – suggesting austerity levels may be rising.

The Family Travel Show takes place in Olympia London on 1 – 2 October 2016.Tickets cost £8 in advance or £10 on the door, under 16s are free. For full details and to book tickets please visit www. familytravelshow.com or call 0844 209 7360.

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UK BREAKS

Specialist travel firm The Champagne Tour Company (http:// www.champagne-tour.com) has developed a private guided tour to please both the kids and their folks.The tour features short and interactive visits, starting with a drive through the Marne Valley to Chatillon sur Marne for panoramic views.

Here the kids can get out and let off some steam and close by is a family producer, which has discovered a treasure trove of fossil shells of superb quality on their land, presented in the rock as they were found.

Guests then head to Epernay and Avenue de Champagne, to visit Champagne Mercier. Here the group can take the panoramic lift 30 metres underground and board a laser guided train to travel along part of 18 kilometres of chalk tunnels. Not forgetting Ma and Pa, the train ride ends with a tasting. Lunch is a child-friendly picnic in the picturesque village of Hautvillers followed by a visit to the abbey of Dom Perignon.

Depending on the age of the children, the afternoon could then include a visit to an interactive Champagne museum, a visit and aperitif at a Champagne Bar up in the treetops that boasts a view of the Montagne de Reims, a visit to the magnificent Reims Cathedral or a horse and cart ride through the vineyards.

THE ULTIMATE STAYCATION The idyllic market town of Beaminster, only a few miles from the Jurassic Coast, is home to The Bridge House a cosy retreat with 13 rooms, plus a relaxed brasserie that serves summery grazing platters alongside a delicious kids’ menu. There’s lots of kit to borrow, from pushchairs to baby monitors and board games, and the family suites have adjoining twin bedrooms.

Child-friendly adventures nearby include fossil hunting, woodland walks, donkey rides on the sand at Weymouth, and Abbotsbury swannery and farm. http://www.i-escape .com/ bridgehouse <http://www.iescape.com/bridgehouse>

The My Buddy Tag wrist band helps parents feel safe and assured that their children are within proximity at all times. This comfortable clip on device comes with a coin screw latch to ensure it won’t fall off whilst they play. A great travel companion for your child, with Bluetooth technology to monitor children on your mobile, you can keep alert in moments where your child is out of reach or sight. Kids can push the panic button if they are in fear, and the device will also alert parents when it is submerged under water for when children are struggling to stay afloat. Complete with the BuddyTag App, this directional device can give location and times to where your child is at all times. Made from silicone, the soft band is easily adjustable to fit tiny wrists and is compatible with all smartphones and tablet devices.

FAMILY TRAVEL ESSENTIAL

SOMETHING DIFFERENT....

Available in blue and pink options this great gadget is just £42.95 from www.prezzybox.com now!

The eight hour tour is priced at 800€ with pick-up from Reims or ten-hour tour at 1,100€ with pick-up from Paris.

Each tour is for up to six guests and excludes entries, tastings and lunch, which depend on program and number of guests.

Pitch up

GLAMPING With no let-up in British holiday makers’ appetite for glamping- the fastest growing sector in the UK leisure industry- inspiration is at hand with the launch of a brand new Glamping Getaways book.

Boutique Camping’s 4m tent can sleep up to 5/6 people, luxuriating in an open-plan bedroom, whilst the 5m tent is perfect for larger families and groups. It comes with with a heavy duty zipped in ground sheet, which gives you the option to unzip and roll up the sides whilst you lounge and enjoy the surroundings around you. The tent also comes with 4 zipped windows and air vents at the top to allow more airflow. www.boutiquecamping.com

This expanded and updated second edition of the original luxury camping guidebook comes from the publishers behind the UK’s best-selling Cool Camping guides and now features 80 personally selected sites across Britain, including more than 50 brand new finds; all of which have been hand-picked, personally inspected and colourfully presented in good old fashioned print.

Glamping Getwaways (Second Edition) is the perfect publication for friends, families and couples who’ve caught the glamping bug and are interested in discovering some of Britain’s quirkiest, wildest and most luxurious ways to sleep in the great outdoors. From the Isle of Arran’s first glamping hotspot and luxurious New-England style huts in the Northumberland National Park, to a quirky lake-side converted shipping container overlooking the Bodmin Moors, the latest guide showcases the very best of British glamp. www.mums-magazine.co.uk

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1. Don’t be too ambitious for the first trip away. Consider a holiday in the UK, or a trip to France where you can pack everything in the car and drive, or a destination with a short haul flight.

Leave the California trip to when you’re feeling more confident.

2. If exotic destinations are your thing, think about going somewhere where the time difference isn’t too big - like South Africa for example. Babies get jet lag just as adults do, and you may well suffer the consequences, not just for the duration of the holiday, but for weeks after arriving back home. The disrupted sleeping and eating cycles may break baby’s normal routine and cause them to suffer a regression. You may find you have to go through sleep training all over again - gah!

3. Think about what facilities are essential for your baby. If you formula feed your little one, you’ll need a decent sized kettle and perhaps a fridge - does your accommodation provide this? If you’re weaning baby how will you manage this?

Taking tons of baby food pouches is possible, but is expensive and will take up a lot of room in your suitcase. Consider going self-catering if you don’t mind the odd bit of cooking while away. Local produce is often cheap and very tasty especially if you’re going somewhere, where it’s likely to be locally grown. Remember to pack your hand blender if you’re doing purees.

If cooking is not your idea of a holiday then maybe look into a family-friendly all inclusive deal. Some of them will take daily requests of what food you would like for baby and cook it to order.

4. Most hotels and self-catering apartments should provide a travel cot and a highchair.

But make sure you check before you go as many are only available upon request, and some places will charge.

5. Nice-to-have facilities at your accommodation might include a heated pool - outdoor pools even in hotter climates can still feel cold to a baby’s sensitive skin.

Some larger hotels may provide creche services, and some have baby monitors you can borrow. Otherwise take your own.

Indispensable for if you’re staying close to the room but want to coincide a spot of sunbathing with baby nap time.

6. Don’t take your expensive travel system away with you. It’s likely to get banged up by the baggage handlers if you’re flying, and will take up tons of space in the car if you’re driving. Look out for deals on second hand Maclaren type buggies on ebay or your local nearly new sales. It’s pointless buying a brand new one to take away with you when it’ll get covered in sand and suncream.

7. …speaking of which, many brands including Boots Soltan do a range of suncreams especially designed for baby skin. Also pack a parasol or sunshade for the buggy as well as long sleeved loose fitting tops and several sun hats. The ones with the neck visors are good for when you want to take baby in the pool. Take a couple of extra large muslins as these are

great sunshades - use them in the window of your hire car to give shade in the back; or drape over the buggy when you’re on the beach to give some extra shade.

8. Don’t bother packing all the nappies you’ll need for your stay. Just take enough to get you through the first couple of days. Most European countries sell brands including Pampers.

9. If you’re flying, take a bottle for the descent as the sucking action will help equalise the pressure in baby’s ears. Also if your baby falls asleep towards the end of the flight, try to get them to do so on your lap with their seatbelt around them.

Otherwise, to comply with flight safety regulations, you will have to move them and in doing so will most likely wake them up just at the worst part of the flight. Cue screaming baby. Thank god for that handy bottle you packed…!

10. Make a list a week before you’re due to travel with all the things you’ll need so that a) you have time to actually get them, and b) you’re not worrying all the way up to the holiday that you’re forgetting something vital!

11.When you’re actually on holiday, let baby dictate when they want to eat and sleep.

Kick out the rigid routine and just go with the flow.

12. Take baby’s favourite toys and books with you but also break open a couple of new ones. The novelty factor of these brand new toys might just get you through a tight spot.

Baby’s first

y a d i l o h How to make your first family holiday a doddle

By Lucy Todd

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The

family HOLIDAY

pack-list

Suitcase essentials for summer family travelling

The Snoozeshade A summer holiday can take your child out of their normal bedtime routine, since dining out in the evening often requires them to fall asleep in their buggy rather than the usual comfort of a dark bedroom. The SnoozeShade Plus Deluxe blocks up to 94% of light and visual distractions, so baby can peacefully sleep in their pushchair whenever needed. It is also ompact and easy to transport,.

RRP: £69.99 | Stockist: www.snoozeshade.com Baby Travel Mattress Planes aren’t the most comfortable places to get your head down, and the resultant sleep shortfall is bad enough for an adult, let alone a little one in need of their regular forty winks. The SkyBaby travel mattress is the perfect solution to this problem, and is a comfortable alternative to having your baby sleep on your lap or on a long haul flight in an airline bassinet. It is a lightweight, portable solution that can be packed away easily into its small carry bag and can be used with the aeroplane infant seat belt if available. www.sky-baby.co.uk

A first family summer holiday is a much anticipated and exciting event, but one that does come with its fair share of concerns and logistics. After all, leaving the house on an average day requires no end of bags and belongings, so one can only imagine the baggage that would ensue when packing for a week or more. However, going away with a little one needn’t spell the end of your car suspension, especially with today’s offering of portable and light weight child essentials.

If you’re stuggling to think what to pack, here is a summary of our top ten holiday must-haves: Food masher If your baby is still on puree or mush, it can be a dilemma as to whether to take a suitcase full of jarred or packet baby food, or whether to rely on foreign food and

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mash as you go. One solution is the Annabel Karmel food masher and bowl (http:// www.annabelkarmel.com/gb/shop/weaningequipment/food-masher-bowl) which can be easily popped into a change bag and taken to a restuarant. http://www.annabelkarmel.com/gb/ A light-weight buggy The Out n About Single Nipper is perfect for manoevering through airports and folds away neatly and easily, so you should be able to take it right to the gate (airline dependent). The optional recline position and wide hood also make the Nipper perfect for encouraging daytime naps on holiday. http://www.outnabout.com

Portable booster seat If you’re planning on dining out at restaurants on holiday, don’t rely on your chosen eatery having a high chair. To widen the choice of places you can dine at, why not invest in an The Up&Go Booster Seat, which is very easy to fold and carry and only 7cm thick (folded). The height can be adjusted up to 14cm and the seat can be adapted to the child’s size thanks to the ergonomic button. The separate control for the feet means it can fit any kind of chair, with a 3-point harness, protective straps, and non-slip feet for high stability. The seat also features a removable cover and has a washable surface. http://www.babymoov.co.uk

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Sweet success

Discover the new face of healthy treats A family trip to the supermarket is a challenge for any parent; crisps, chocolate, sweets, juices and fizzy drinks are just a handful of the quick fixes kids reach for at the shop. With a mass production culture and a never-ending selection of new processed treats, it’s difficult to persuade our children to choose healthier options. However, pioneering brands such as the award-winning Sweetpea Pantry <http://www.sweetpeapantry. co.uk/> , have been looking to tackle the issue and provide natural, healthy and easy snack options for kids, teenagers and all the family.

With the recent announcement of the heavily debated sugar tax, the government is finally recognising that easily-accessible sugary products are posing a problem for our kids, and causing child-hood obesity along with a myriad of health issues. Despite the introduction of the tax, it’s still not as easy as it should be for families to choose natural and healthy snacks when at the supermarket.

Other brands who have been pioneering the concept include Claudi and Fin <http:// www.claudiandfin.co.uk/> , who make ice lollies from natural Greek style yoghurt and real fruit which are low in sugar and free from additives, as well as Rebel Kitchen <http:// www.rebel-kitchen.com/home-uk.html> coconut ‘mylk’ drinks, which are a natural and refined-sugar free alternative to milkshakes and flavoured milk.

Healthy starts

A new solution to healthy breakfasts for kids It’s simple; parents want their children to start their day off with a healthy and nutritious breakfast and children want to kick their morning off with a bit of fun and a treat. Rude Health are helping to solve this problem by combining the two and coming up with their first cereal made using only two ingredients - Spelt and Honey. Honey Spelt Puffs taste like a treat but will keep parents happy as they only contain wholegrains and the sugar content (from honey) is 11.9g per 100g.

The packets are designed with two to ten year olds in mind, with two illustrated characters - Owl and Mouse - and a series of ‘Rude’ jokes and facts to keep the entire family entertained around the table. www.rudehealth.com

In light of the recent budget announcement, the government is now supporting these companies’ quest to educate and support children in healthy eating, and make it easier for families to choose healthy low-sugar alternatives. With the growing global education in healthier eating, brands such as Sweetpea Pantry have gone from strength to strength.

The team was recently awarded the title of ‘Best Loved Kids Food Brand’ by Richard Branson at the Virgin Foodpreneurs Festival 2015, Great Taste Awards, and products can be found across the UK in Marks & Spencer, Ocado, Booths and Revital as well as other forward-thinking stores.The team are constantly developing new products and ideas, and are excited to be launching new on-the-go snacking products in 2016. www.sweetpeapantry.co.uk

FOOD WARS

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How to win the healthy eating battle with your children

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Feeding time

Discover an easier and more nutritious way to feed your child You only have one chance to introduce your little one to food.

In Baby Pip Eats, nutritionist, seasoned recipe developer and stylist Amie Harper transforms what is essentially a basic need into a vibrant learning experience for both you and your little one.With a dish for every letter of the alphabet, these recipes are both fun and nutritious. For example, rustle up Egg French toast, Kitty cauliflower patties and avocado bites, Woof potato pancakes, Broccoli au Gratin and Beef & mushroom ragu with pasta. Each recipe lists its nutritional benefits, for example whether it’s high in vitamins, carbohydrates, protein or calcium, what age the dish is suitable for, and how many parents/ family members it also feeds. Baby Pip Eats is a must-have book for parents wanting an easier and more nutritious feeding time.

Good things come in fun packages Food storage solutions your kids will love

The dotcomgiftshop’s new collection of Kids Lunch Bags and Boxes are adorned with a colourful selection of the design team’s latest prints. They are designed to keep children’s snacks fresh and tasty during school, play or adventuring.

Available now from www.dotcomgiftshop.com

Time for tea

Make the perfect ‘grown up’ drink for your little ones Ahmad Tea, a leading British and International tea brand has produced a Children’s Tea to complete any teddy bear tea party and make the perfect ‘grown up’ drink for your little ones.

Children’s Tea is a fun, delicate blend of the finest decaffeinated black teas beautifully flavoured with sweet banana and caramel, making this delightful tea perfect for children to enjoy.

The banana flavour offers a familiar, appealing taste while the caramel evokes smoothness and softness for a comforting, yet refreshing cup for all occasions – the breakfast table, a back from school drink or a pre-bedtime soother.

The box is a bright and playful yellow colour, featuring ‘Mr Breakfast’ the Ahmad Tea bear. Each bag is individually enveloped so your kids can take the tea wherever they go. In addition, for some alternative weekend activities, the Ahmad Tea website offers some great colouring fun as children can select their favourite ‘Mr Breakfast’ bear image and colour it in online or print out the images for hours of entertainment.

With an RRP of £1.80 for 20 Foil Teabags, Ahmad Tea is available online from www.ahmadtea.com Join in the conversation: www.facebook.com/AhmadTea

TUM TUM is the innovative and multi award winning family brand making mealtimes a whole lot of fun for tots. Its latest product is the adorable Thermal Food Flasks, which are set to become the lunch box and picnic essential this year! The all new insulated, stainless steel food flasks will keep food hot for up to five hours and cold for up to seven hours, so lunches on the go can always be enjoyed at the perfect temperature. Perfect for hot pasta and soup for the cooler months and ideal for cold rice dishes and salads for summer – so lunches will always stay fresh in both senses of the word!

RRP: £17 www.tumtumtots.com and Amazon

Spanish inspiration

Introduce your children to the Mediterranean way of cooking Let's Cook Spanish, by notable Spanish chef Gabriela Llamas, is a fun, interactive, bilingual cookbook that introduces the art and joy of Spanish cooking and encourages better eating habits, the importance of culture, and quality family time.

Featuring classic, simple dishes, each recipe is shown in both Spanish and English and accompanied by charming illustrations. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and hands-on preparation, dishes include Traditional Starters – Tapas y Pinchos; Meat, Fish and Vegetable main courses – Carnes y Pescados y Verduras; and delightful Desserts – El Postre. www.mums-magazine.co.uk

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en

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Tailor your child’s buoyancy with our Go Splash Float Jacket!

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THE IMPORTANCE OF BATH TIME Bathtime for children is about more than cleanliness: it is a wonderful sensory and bonding experience, creating opportunities for learning and development, as well as invaluable interaction.

Bathtime has long been part of babies’ wind-down routine in the evening, since the relaxing effects of warm water and bubbles can help set the tone for a restful night’s sleep.

With many specially formulated baby bath products designed to add complementary soothing elements such as Lavender, parents can now turn the functional experience of bathing into a routine-facilitating ritual.

While the fundamentals and benefits of baby bath time are long established, a greater awareness of the chemical element of many modern baby products has triggered a shift in what we choose to put on our baby’s delicate skin. Natural and organic baby care now leads the way, and with good reason when the benefits of such ingredients are weighed up in relation to overall health and many common skin conditions, including infant eczema.

In terms of the way we bath our children, this has also seen a change of late, as the old-fashioned kitchen sink approach has been far surpassed by the likes of the Lagoon Bathtub (below) which makes easier and slipfree work of the bathing processs.

Bubble trouble

The new wave baby bathing routine that is helping little ones get the most out of their tub time

Bathtime bliss

by Emma Arkell, Owner of www.magic-cream.co.uk Bathtime is a lovely moment of the day for your child, especially when bubbles are involved. Many parents wrongly believe that if their child has skin problems (such as eczema), they shouldn’t use any products in the bath and GPs often advise this. I found myself in this situation in 2001 when my one year old developed severe cracked and bleeding eczema. Calling on my Aromatherapy knowledge, I decided to create a bubble bath for babies and children that would also help skin problems. I called it “Little People’s Bathtime Fun” and used a simple formula of Organic Wild Lavender and Organic German Chamomile. These two essential oils have extraordinary healing powers and are entirely safe when used correctly. Between them, they relieve itching and irritation, sooth and heal the skin, encourage it to regrow and also have antiseptic properties for skin that has become angry and inflamed through scratching. As an added bonus, they have sedative proper ties which calm and sooth your child, ready for a good night’s sleep. For best results, let your child have a really good play in the bath for at least 1015 minutes without using any Natural remedies for the skin other products.

For further advice or information, please contact Emma on 07702 309688, email emma@magic-cream.co.uk or go to www.magic-cream.co.uk.

and body including Eczema, Psoriasis, Chicken Pox, Nappy Rash, Teenage Spots, Acne, Nits and much more...

For further advice and information: please contact emma@magic-cream.co.uk 01962 776918 / 07702 309688 www.magic-cream.co.uk

The translucent Lagoon Bathtub allows you to bath Baby in lying position from its first months. The opposite side then offers a nice play area when he can sit by himself. http://www.thermobaby.com

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KEEP COVERED Toddlers can play safely in the sun this summer with Cuddledry’s adorable sea creature inspired SPF50+ Poncho Towel. The first of their kind in the UK, the towels use patented Rayosan™ technology which acts like a mirror, deflecting the harmful UVA and UVB rays off the towel, instead of passing through the fabric and harming a baby’s delicate skin.

The poncho has handy poppers under the arms which can be done up to create a loose ‘sleeve’ when worn, to keep the towel in place and make it comfortable for its little wearer. They are really easy to put on and take off, a perfect ‘throw on’ towel or cover up for swimming, beach, playtime or bathtime. £27.99 available from www.cuddledry.com

No trip to the pool or beach would be complete without Zoocchini’s iconic hooded towel. These colourful and extremely high quality animal themed hooded towels are sure to make water adventures much more enjoyable this year. Not only is each towel cosy, super soft and warm, thanks to their unique individual details such as hand grabs, paws, tails, fins, teeth, horns, manes and feathers, little ones can enjoy an unexpected opportunity for imaginary play. RRP: £22 (baby towel) £29 (kids towel) Stockists: www.my1styears.com, kiddicare online and www.potwells.co.uk

This pop up play tent is designed to keep baby comfortable and safe from the sun with SPF 50+ sun protection and a removable mosquito net and comfortable padded mattress. It also features 3 removable toys to keep your little ones entertained as they play through the day and comes with a handy carry bag. £59.99 from www.babymoov.co.uk

WATER WAYS Holiday essentials to keep kids safe and protected by the beach and pool this summer

DON’T MISS...

SPLASH FEST is set to transform Battersea Park into London’s first family-friendly aqua obstacle course on Sunday 7 August. Featuring five zones of water-themed challenges and games over a 2.5km trail – as well as a lively event village – SPLASH FEST will see families conquering slides, foam, water spouts and more! SPLASH FEST is ideal for families with children aged around 7–12. www.splashfest.co.uk

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WATER SAFETY Little lifeguards More children will now be able to learn how to be little lifeguards and save the lives of themselves and others while having fun thanks to a new partnership between the Drowning Prevention Charity and Olympic swimmer, Rebecca Adlington.

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) has trained eleven swimming teachers in essential water safety education in bid to reduce preventable deaths.

The teachers, who are all associated with leading learnto-swim company, Becky Adlington’s Swim Stars, were given training resulting in them becoming RLSS UK Rookie Lifeguard Instructors, which has given them vital knowledge to go into schools to deliver water safety education to children.

RLSS UK’s Rookie Lifeguard programme gives children aged between eight to 12-years-old the skills they need to be confident and enjoy water safely, and gives children valuable self survival, self rescue and rescue skills as well as giving them the skills to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). http://www.rlss.org.uk/awards-activities/rookielifeguard/

The kids swimming essential Zoggs Float Bands are a great learn to swim aid.They feature easy inflate valves for 50% quicker inflation and deflation, making them easy to use, too. Float Bands are available in 4 different sizes across ages 0-12 years. The bright orange is ideal for keeping a close eye on children as they learn to swim. £6 from www.zoggs.com

Swimming lessons From gaining confidence in the water to starting to swim independently, Splash About’s Float Suit is the ideal learn-to-swim aid for children.

With float technology created by trusted safety swimwear brand Splash About, the Float Suit’s ‘Adjustable Buoyancy System’ consists of 16 foam floats inserted into pockets in the body of the suit.

These can be removed evenly to individually tailor buoyancy offering flexibility for all swim abilities - as your child becomes more confident in water and learns to swim, the floats can gradually be removed.

The Float Suit automatically positions your child correctly in the water for learning-to-swim and allows complete freedom of movement giving them full use of their arms as they are not restricted by armbands or reliant on holding floats.

Made from premium Nylon Elastane which provides UPF50+ sun protection – both in and out of the water - the fabric is soft, stretchy and comfortable. Splash About’s Float Suit is the only suit on the market with a zip down the back, designed specifically for easy dressing. It won’t fade in the sun and it keeps its shape and colour even after prolonged use in chlorinated water. Suitable from 12months RRP £25.99 www.splashabout.com

AFTER CARE Vosene Kids’ Afterswim Hair & Body Wash helps to remove traces of chlorine from kiddies after a day spent splashing in the pool. With a refreshed new look and feel, it is the perfect product to pop into your little one’s swimming bag, and yours too!

Vosene Kids’ Afterswim Hair & Body Wash is available in selected Sainsbury’s and Asda stores, RRP £2.49 per 200ml.

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Mum musthaves

A round up of some of the best products to help you past the 6 month stage of motherhood

The home play pen Baby’s first roll is an important turning point in motherhood, spelling the end of those oh-so relaxed days of being able to turn your back for a The Sleephead second without fear of your little Once your baby has moved one moving from the safe spot up and out of a crib and into a you put them in whilst venturing cot, be prepared to spend many to make a cup of tea. Once you’ve a night getting up to roll your switched the eyes in the back of little one back onto their back, your head firmly on, it pays to as the new found space sees invest in a play pen that you can them manouevering around place baby into when a situation (and waking themselves more) demands some of the 100% in their sleep, which might also Sleepyhead attention that is required with a end up being more broken due Grande little one on the move. The Pop to the relative openness of a cot £165 compared to what they might www.johnlewis.com n Play Play Pen by Summer Infant is perfect for this purpose, and have gotten used to in their early can be used inside or outdoors, weeks and months. One effective providing a safe space for babies solution to this problem is the to play.

Sleephead Grande - one stage up Touch Eclat £21.25 from the Sleephead and designed www.johnlewis.com The 1 minute make-up to fit into your baby’s cot, giving regime them a feeling of extra security By month six, weaning and and warmth in the big wide dwindling naps are thrown into world that is their own bed, in the already time-challenged their own room.

The buttoned bib As if the added washing load when you are going through three bibs a day isn’t bad enough, you then have to contend with your delicates being shredded by those velcro tabs. My advice: go for poppered bibs instead and keep your underwear intact.

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Pop n Play Play Pen www.summerinfant.com

parenting mix, creating a need for an alternative to any make up operation requiring more than three stages. It comes down to a case of ‘choose your weapon’ - be it base, foundation, powder, mascara or eye liner.

It will probably be a rare event (or special occasion) to manage all five, let alone stretch to the long-forgotten eye shadow at the bottom of your make up bag, A new, sleek regime involving tinted moisturiser, mascara and cream blusher is the most effective day-to-day eye bag disguiser.... and maybe some Touche Eclat if the clock and your purse will stretch. Double up products such as Lanolin Nipple Balm (which works as a lip balm) and Water Wipes (which work as a face wash) will also help you maintain some form of beauty regime. www.mums-magazine.co.uk

14 things no-one tells you about being a new mum

by Lucy Todd

1. Straight after giving birth you walk like John Wayne and start to hysterically wonder if you’ll ever be able to walk normally again.

2. Night sweats. I didn’t know this was a thing.You wake up every night for the first few weeks drenched in sweat. As if nights with a newborn baby weren’t hard enough already.

3. Breastfeeding is way more difficult than you think it’ll be. How has the human race survived for so long using this method alone? You really have to persevere with it.

And don’t listen to the midwives who say if there is any pain AT ALL you’ve not got baby latched on right. Of course it’s going to hurt a bit to start with. It’s something your nipples have never had to do before.

9. You’re thirsty ALL the time. Trust me water gets old pretty quickly. Why not try some elderflower or lime cordial you daredevil?!

10. That lustrous hair you’ve become accustomed to during pregnancy ain’t gonna last. Get ready for your hair to start moulting all over your clothes and collecting like tumbleweed around the house.

11. If you’re breastfeeding, constipation can be eye-wateringly bad.

After everything you’ve already been through down there. Bummer.

12. Prepare for the fact you won’t be able to watch kidnapping movies again. Or even the news if it involves the abduction/ injury/general pain of a small child. You have new found parent super-senses and as part of that empathy comes in spades.

4. Your hands will be the driest they’ve ever been. Like so dry that when you pat your baby’s back to wind them your fingers will catch on their clothes like velcro.

13. It’s way more fun than you think.

After all the doom-mongers throughout pregnancy - you know the ones…“say goodbye to sleep,” coupled with knowing smirk - expectations were pretty low.

We set ourselves up for a long, hard slog.

But after a little while realised we were actually enjoying new parenthood. Noone seems to tell you quite how awesome it is. We actually even wondered why we’d taken so long to do it. After all, why would people ever have kids if it was quite the living nightmare some people make out.

5. Prepare to be amazed by something your little one does every day. However much you fight it, you WILL become those parents. It’s an inevitability, I’m afraid.

14. No-one really knows what they’re doing. As far as I can tell, everyone’s just making it up as they go along and trying to style it out. Sssh…

6. Watch out for your wrists. Your ligaments are still soft from pregnancy and holding your baby with slightly bent wrists for long periods while breastfeeding can really take its toll. Couple that with clutching your little one using just one hand while you’re trying to stir the dinner / brush your teeth / answer the front door - or generally accomplish anything - could lead to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Cue wearing a wrist splint for several weeks while your arm strengthens up.

‘Get ready for your hair to start moulting all over your clothes and collecting like tumbleweed around the house’

The ultimate nursing cushion Thrupenny Bits is a multi award winning brand that has successfully made breastfeeding portable, comfortable and stylish. Their nursing pillows are carefully designed to aid breastfeeding and are available in four gorgeous colours, with an optional bespoke service available.

Stockist: www.thrupennybits.co.uk

Welcome to Parentville ParentVille is a location-based app for urban parents looking for family-friendly activities, venues and facilities. It also helps new mums and dads to build a support network by connecting them with other local parents.

“Something as simple as leaving the house can be incredibly stressful when you have children, particularly when you’re a firsttime parent, who might have just moved to a new neighbourhood,” says ParentVille CEO and Co-founder Lamice Hourani.

“But at the same time we know that parents really enjoy sharing their experiences, so we came up with a solution that crowdsources all this useful knowledge in one place, but in a carefully curated way. Everything from the nearest changing facilities to the best child-friendly cafes to your local baby yoga class, it’s all there on your phone, so you can do less worrying and more enjoying when going out with the kids.”

http://www.parentville.co.uk

7. Same goes for your back - kind of more obvious but still worth mentioning.

After being hollowed out by a baby, unsurprisingly it takes a while for your internal structural integrity to return.

Doing something as simple as leaning over a changing mat can be challenging for quite some time. And those glossy pictures you see of women going for hikes with baby in their baby carriers…just keep them short to begin with.

8. Invest in a nursing cushion. It helps with both of the above and really is money well spent. www.mums-magazine.co.uk

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Pimp picnic

NICE ICE The Ice Kitchen make fruit, dairy and cocktail lollies using only the finest ingredients - whole fresh fruits, fresh milk and cream, the finest chocolate, coffee, herbs and spices.

your

Give your hamper a healthy make-over this summer

www.icelitchen. co.uk Available from Cook Stores nationwide

Hot to trot!

TASTY SANDWICHES WELLY is a new British produced cooked meat brand that is all British produced, so you can rest assured that the meat in your picnic sandwiches has both taste and traceability. Offering a delicious range of sliced British ham and chicken, there is something for everyone. www.wellyfoods.co.uk

The Gourmet Trotter (www.gourmet-trotter.co.uk) is unlike anything else seen before connected to alfresco dining. For ease of use and for storage purposes it is made up of three detachable modules. Each has been creatively designed to accommodate selected and inclusive stylish and durable dining accessories for up to 4 persons. It also allows generous storage space for your gourmet produce. It is a mobile luxury picnic hamper designed and manufactured to the highest standards.

It ingeniously utilises a golf trolley for suitable mobility to transport its elegantly furnished compartments.

Sitting pretty

PACMAT is a new kind of picnic mat, combining both microfibre and waterproof fabrics that make it compact and lightweight.

Snakes and Ladders Family ÂŁ39 www.rubbastuff.com

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PACMAT is easy to wash and available in a variety of sizes.

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Learning to sit opens up a whole world of new opportunities for your baby, for eating, interacting, playing and learning.With this new ability comes a whole new set of furniture requirements to help facilitate the routines and behaviours that sitting entails.

BABY SITTING

FOR FEEDING Duluxe 3 in 1 High Chair Bebe Style’s deluxe 3 in 1 highchair grows with your child and features a proper seat, with all round plastic sides to ensure maximum safety. It has a padded seat for maximum comfort whilst still being light and robust. The highchair features a simple ‘no tools needed’ lock together legs, making it simple to build to its full height!

Whenever needed, the lower parts of the leg can come off, making a super junior chair. Or, the entire legs click off, making the seat a perfect secure booster for any chair! www.bebestyle.co.uk

Play

Infant

This is a fun seat for your little one to sit comfortably while they play, featuring a soft plush floor seat with interactive and detachable play panel. It also has a baby safe mirror, chime bear and star rattle. £24 Stockist details: www.mamasandpapas.co.uk, 0345 268 2000

If your baby is finally starting to sit up on their own, these chairs, positioners and seats may help them on their way...

FOR PLAYING GALT Two-in-One play nest Baby Base 2 in 1 Seat The Baby Base 2-in-1™ provides support that allows babies to sit up and is designed for use on the floor, or it can attach safely to a dining chair for use as a booster seat - making it perfect for playtime, dinner or travel. There is also a 3-point harness for safety. Baby Base 2-in-1 comes with its own tray that conveniently stores beneath the seat for easy storage and transport, so you won’t lose it or have separate pieces to keep up with. The foam insert provides extra cushioning for baby and can be removed so the seat will remain comfortable as baby gets bigger. - See more at: http://www.kidsii.com/Globals/Import/ products/60279-ingenuity-baby-base-2-in1-aqua#sthash.4svCJgLt.dpuf

FOR RELAXING My First Sit and Positioner

‘Learning to sit opens up a whole world of new opportunities for your baby, for eating, interacting, playing and learning’

The Two-in-One Playnest® is a fabric covered inflatable ring that provides a soft resting area for a young baby on one side and a self-contained play environment for older babies and toddlers on the reverse.

The soft velour resting area for young babies supports them in a comfortable semi-upright position. For an older baby, simply turn the Playnest® over to reveal a padded seating area which will support you child in a sitting position, enabling them to reach out and explore safely. The triangular shape of the seating area offers sideways support during rest and play. There are 8 multi-sensory features incorporated in the activities around the Playnest® and it is also an excellent place for baby to sit while playing with other toys. See more at: http:// www.galttoys.com £34.99

SAFETY NOTE: never leave your baby unattended in any chair, seat or positioner.

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When baby’s first tooth starts popping through it can be a tough time for both mum and baby alike, a Nelsons® Teetha® survey has revealed over a third of parents (39%) surveyed find it the most distressing ailment . For baby it can mean sore and tender gums, flushed cheeks and dribbling, while for parents it often means sleepless nights.

When the first tooth does eventually cut through the gum there will also be the added worry of how to care for the new tooth! So how do you look after a new tooth whilst your baby is still teething? The makers of Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules have put together top tips for tooth care: • You can start brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they come through. Don’t worry if you don’t manage to brush much at first, the important thing is to get your baby used to brushing their teeth as part of their daily routine.

• You can help by setting a good example and letting them see you brushing your own teeth. Not all children like having their teeth brushed, so you may have to keep trying.You could try and make it into a game. Perseverance is the key!

• Use a tiny smear of toothpaste for babies and toddlers up to age three, and a pea-sized amount for children aged three to six years.

• The easiest way to brush a baby’s teeth is to sit them on your knee with their head resting against your chest. With an older child, stand behind them and tilt their head upwards.

• Brush the teeth in small circles covering all the surfaces and let your child spit the toothpaste out afterwards. Rinsing with water has been found to reduce the benefit of fluoride.

• Gradually start brushing your child’s teeth more thoroughly, covering all the surfaces of the teeth. Do it at least twice a day: just before bed and at another time that fits in with your routine.

• Supervise brushing to make sure your child gets the right amount of toothpaste and they are not eating or licking toothpaste from the tube.

• Carry on helping your child brush their teeth until you’re sure they can do it well enough themselves. This will normally be from the age of seven

Toothy tales

Top tips for baby and child tooth care

There’s no set date when your baby’s first tooth will arrive. Most babies start at around six months, but it can happen at any time, from before birth to after their first birthday. The teething process could carry on for a year or more but your little one should have all their milk teeth by the time they are two-and-a-half years old . To help relieve your baby’s teething symptoms you could try Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules, a homeopathic remedy specially formulated for the soothing and calming relief of the symptoms of teething. It is ready-dosed in a convenient granule format that simply dissolves in a baby’s mouth to help provide teething pain relief. It contains a 6c homeopathic potency of natural Chamomilla.

Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules cost £5.57, available from Boots, Holland and Barrett, selected grocers, Lloyd’s pharmacies and all good independent health food and pharmacy stores. Always read the label. www.nelsonsbaby.com *If you are concerned about any symptoms that your baby may have in particular if they have a fever please consult your doctor.

If you would like further information, please contact Alison Hunter-Pease at Nelsons on 020 8780 4239 (alisonhunterpease@ nelsons.net)

BABY TOOTH CARE Recommended by TV’s Dr Chris Steele, these soft, disposable wipes are gently formulated and uniquely textured to help cleanse delicate gums and first baby teeth. Perfect to use before they are able to brush, DentalWipes help to establish a healthy oral environment. Keeping babies’ gums clean can also help prevent teething pain. They are formulated with Xylitol to combat decay-causing bacteria and are banana flavoured and fluoride free. Suitable for babies from 0-16 months. Use before your baby has teeth and with first teeth: Gently wipe over gums, tongue, cheeks and baby teeth at least once a day £4.99 from www.brushbaby.co.uk

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PARENTAL KNOWLEDGE GAP LEAVING NHS WITH £22M EARLY DENTAL CARE BILL New research by My Dentist, the UK’s largest dental group, recently revealed how a lack of understanding amongst parents on the importance of early dental care is leaving the NHS with an estimated £22m annual bill.

The survey of over 2,000 UKbased parents highlights how dental disengagement has left over 1 million children aged eight and under still waiting for their first trip to the dentist.

Additionally, over 700,000 children who have been to the dentist have had at least one filling, each at a cost of £31 to the Department of Health.

These findings demonstrate an urgent need for more initiatives for educating and engaging parents and their children on oral health and the importance of looking after their teeth properly from a young age.

Many parents failed to take their children to the dentist early enough with 57% of respondents not going until after their first birthday, considerably later than when teething starts, despite almost 50% reporting no barriers to doing so earlier. Furthermore, only a quarter (26%) of children brush their teeth for the recommended two minutes per session.

The survey also highlighted how lack of dental engagement may be contributing to parental confusion around positive factors for oral health and free treatments available on the NHS:

TEACHING TOOTH BRUSHING •

Teach the correct movement by guiding your child’s hand holding a toothbrush

•

Use a mirror to help your child see exactly where the brush is cleaning their teeth.

•

Make tooth brushing as fun as possible, using an egg timer to time it for at least two minutes.

•

Don’t let children run around with a toothbrush in their mouth as they may damage their mouths or choke if they fall over.

Tips by www.nhs.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Over three in every ten children starting school (31 per cent) have tooth decay A third of children aged 12 have visible dental decay www.nationalsmilemonth.org

Xylitol and children’s dental health Xylitol is a natural sugar found in some fruits, including plums, strawberries, and raspberries. It is also made in small amounts in our bodies.The positive effects of Xylitol on dental health has been known for over 40 years and it widely used in Scandinavian countries and the US. There have been more than 300 studies showing its almost incredible effect on preventing and reversing tooth decay - by up to 50%.

How Xylitol works Every time you eat, the bacteria present in your mouth digest the sugars of your food to produce acids which eat away at the enamel of your teeth. This “acid attack” causes tooth decay and cavities can to begin to form if prolonged.

Xylitol helps prevent decay-causing bacteria from producing the acids that rot teeth. This is because these bacteria are unable to digest Xylitol and so do not produce acids as a by-product. The bacteria also begin to reduce in number and become less sticky so they don’t cling to the surface of teeth where they can do damage.

Xylitol helps to repair the damaged enamel of teeth. Even wiping a baby's new teeth with a daily xylitol wipe can give great protection against decay in the early years. www.brushbaby.co.uk

· 20% incorrectly thought that fruit smoothies were good for their child’s teeth · 20% incorrectly believe that sippy cups are good for their child’s teeth · 1 in 8 parents (13%) incorrectly said fluoride is bad for their child’s teeth · Nearly a third (31%) were unaware of free NHS treatments available to kids such as fluoride varnishing My Dentist recently rebranded from Integrated Dental Holdings. Its new website, including the downloadable My Little Book of Big Smiles is accessible at www.mydentist.co.uk. www.mums-magazine.co.uk

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fruity beauty Discover this season’s freshest and fruitiest beauty products

DR.PAWPAW TINTED PEACH PINK BALM Dr.PAWPAW Tinted Peach Pink Balm uses the same great formula of the Original Balm but now contains an on trend PEACH PINK shade so that your hero balm adds a little colour to your lips, cheeks and life! https://www.drpawpaw.com

MELON-PEPTIDE CREME GEL

JO MALONE’S ORANGE BLOSSOM COLOGNE Jo Malone’s Earl Orange Blossom Cologne has a gorgeous scent of clementine flower, orange blossom and water lily, with warm undertones of orris and balsamic vetiver. The perfect fruity fragrance for summer! £85.00 per 100ml http://www.jomalone.co.uk

This intensive cream / gel is an anti-ageing treatment that gives your skin a silky, light and luxurious feeling. Cantaloupe Melon is extremely hydrating and has anti-inflammatory benefits that help to reduce the signs and progression of ageing. Clinically proven peptides are added to this creme gel to help reduce the depth and intensity of facial wrinkles. www.thebodydeli.com

MANDARIN VANILLA HEALING BALM This new lip balm is super creamy and soothing! Say good-bye to dry chapped lips with this moisturizing balm containing Organic Mandarin, Organic Cocoa, Organic Beeswax and Organic Coconut Oil for lips, cuticles & dry skin. The flavor and scent is an amazing Mandarin Vanilla. It smells delicious!

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LOCAL CLASS DETAILS:

WEDNESDAYS

MONDAYS

MAIDENHEAD Sportsable Braywick Sports Ground 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Sandra: 07590 383334

MAIDENHEAD St Marks Crescent Church Hall Allenby Road 5.30pm and 7.30pm Call Mandy: 07864 547709 TUESDAYS TWYFORD Piggott School Twyford Road 5.30pm and 7.30pm Call Becky 07415 884433

WOKINGHAM Salvation Army Hall, Sturges Rd, 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Nicki - 07850 588456 HENLEY ON THAMES Henley Hockey club.

Reading road, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Kerry 07789313737

WINNERSH 9.30am, 5.30pm and 7.30pm St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church Call Jane 07855016345

THURSDAYS WOKINGHAM Emmbrook Infant School Emmbrook Rd 5.15pm & 7pm Call Nicki - 07850 588456 MAIDENHEAD Cox Green Community Centre 51 Highfield Lane 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Mandy: 07864 547709 COOKHAM Cookham Dean Cricket Club Ricketts Field, Whyteladyes Lane Thursday 7.30pm Call Martina: 07857 700175

FRIDAYS COOKHAM Cookham Dean Cricket Club Ricketts Field, Whyteladyes Lane 9.30am & 11.30am Call Martina 07857 700175

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is here to help!

We all know how unpredictable babies can be!

Even if you follow a regular routine, no two days are the same, and there are certain trigger times1 when your baby may be more prone to nappy rash 1.Morris H, The bottom line on nappy rash, British Journal of Midwifery, September 2012, Vol 20, No 9, pages 540-543

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Treatment

for Nappy Rash For occasions when it does strike, Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment can be used to treat nappy rash, relieving the irritation and redness.

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Protection

from Nappy Rash For daily protection, use Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment or Easy Spray Barrier Lotion at every nappy change to help prevent nappy rash.

Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine. Always read the label.

www.metanium.co.uk

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