Emirates Woman - MINI March 2020

SPRING/SUMMER 2020

COOL KIDS

GIVENCHY’S STREET WEAR

TEACH YOUR KIDS TO FAIL

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5/27/13

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KEEP THEM CURIOUS

THE SS20 ISSUE

I M AG E : B A L M A I N

EDITOR’S LETTER

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s most parents would know, sometimes you just need a little help or guidance when it comes to navigating your child’s developmental stages. From weaning to sleep training, and all the developmental stages in-between, there’s a lot of conflicting advice out there. We’ve spoken to the UAE’s experts to find out their thoughts on moving from milk to solids, if co-sleeping is safe and if it matters when your baby misses a development milestone - flick to page 28 to read more In terms of your own motherhood journey, it’s not uncommon for mums to start feeling a little stir-crazy after months home with bub. On page 38, one writer describes her emotionally tumultuous journey reconciling her mum life with her own pre-motherhood identity.

Pressed for dinner ideas that will please even the pickiest tastebuds? Author Zahra

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Abdalla has selected the three top recipes from her own family’s favourites. For fashion, spring has well and truly and sprung, with our trend pages bringing you the latest in pretty pastels, flower motifs and feminine frills. Take inspiration from our chic Balmain and Givenchy shoots, for your own cool kid.

In health news, we find out exactly which supplements your body needs throughout pregnancy to best support you and your child, in your ultimate guide to essential vitamins and minerals on page 42.

Wrap your busy week with the best in new beauty launches on page 36 –from a new-tothe-region Korean beauty brand, to the hair masque that helps kickstart hair regrowth.

Enjoy the issue, The Emirates Woman Mini team

Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer M a n a g i n g Pa r t n e r a n d G r o u p E d i t o r Ian Fairservice Editor Amy Sessions Fa s h i o n & B e a u t y E d i t o r Natalie Westernoff Senior Editorial Assistant Cecilia D'Souza Contributing Editor Michaela Williams

G e n e ra l Ma n a ge r Pro d u c t i o n S Sunil Kumar

Digital Style Editor

As s i s ta n t Pro d u c t i o n Ma n a ge r

Diana Bell-Heather

Binu Purandaran

D i g i t a l Fe a t u r e s Wr i t e r E m i r a t e s Wo m a n A r a b i y a

Chief Commercial Of f icer

Diyana Hakmi

Anthony Milne

Art Director

Group Director

T Prasadan Ph o tog ra p h e r Mustufa Abidi

Andrew Wingrove Pu b l i sh i n g D i re c to r Carlos Pedroza Group Sales Manager Bindu Gupta bindu@motivate.ae Senior Sales Manager Neha Kannoth neha.kannoth@motivate.ae Creative Solutions Manager Kelli Maddock kelli@motivate.ae

Head Office: Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box: 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 4273000 Fax: (+971) 4 4282261, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai Media City, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 3903550, Fax: (+971) 4 3904845 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE Tel: (+971) 2 6772005 Fax: (+971) 2 6770124 E-mail: motivate-adh@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai 6

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CONTENTS FRONT ROW 04 EDITOR'S LETTER. A word from the Mini team

12 FASHION NEWS Pretty spring trends for your little one

14 EW INSIDER All about the events, tech and toys you need

15 THE WANTED Awesome spring colours for kids

FASHION 16 COOL KIDS Streetwise styles of limitless play

22 THE RULE BREAKERS Classic tailoring from Olivier Rousteing

FEATURES 28 THE BABY WHISPERERS Top secret tips from the experts

TEACH YOUR KIDS TO FAIL The essential lessons of life your child needs to know

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IL GUFO

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CONTENTS

36 BEFORE AND AFTER BABY NEWS

38 THE JOY AND PAIN OF RETURNING TO WORK A new mum's dilemma

42 SUPPLEMENT FOR SUCCESS Give your child the best start possible

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI KIDS

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EASY WEEKNIGHTS Tempting recipes from Cooking with Zahra

50 THE HERO BUY

SPRING AWAKENING WELCOME THE WARMER WEATHER WITH PRETTY PRINTS AND PLAY-READY STYLES KA-BLOOM! Pretty petals are given a modern makeover for Simonetta's new collection. Oversized and textured blossoms explode from the brand's core tees and shift dresses, for an amplified floral look. POA, Simonetta

BEST FRONDS Versace’s iconic palm print returns for the designer’s springsummer 2020 campaign. Mix and match jungle green tights, bodysuits, tees and bottoms for an all-in luxe look.

POA, Versace

STYLE FROM THE BOTTOM UP Dubai-created brand, PureBorn, offers organic nappies with fashion-forward prints including palm leaves, leopard and fruity designs, and a new eco-packaging that reduces plastic by 40 percent. The subscription model for both nappies and wipes takes care of busy families. pureborn.com

FLOWER POWER While florals for spring is hardly ground-breaking, Chloé’s sweet new launch has us celebrating the return of pretty prints.

Delicate flowers bloom across swimwear and accessories, to update your girly girl’s wardrobe.

Chloé is available at Angels, The Dubai Mall

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FRONT ROW/STYLE NEWS WORDS:

MICHAELA WILLIAMS

NEW BLUES Swap out cool weather jeans for breezy denim dresses that can handle a full day of fun. We love the feminine ruffles and pearl button details on this off-theshoulder style.

Denim dress Dhs159 River Island

BABY’S FIRST DIAMOND

SHINE ON

For an extra special gift, mark your teen’s big celebration with a bracelet or necklace from Messika’s My First collection. In yellow, white or rose gold, the chic design has space for engraving, for a precious piece they will forever treasure.

Messika’s My First collection is available at net-a-porter.com

DKNY’s new collection of kids’ kicks mixes street style with fun iridescent detailing. Pair with anything from activewear to spring-ready frocks for a too cool for school vibe.

Sneakers Dhs510 DKNY

GENTLEMEN ONLY Your little man will look dapper in a tailored short suit from Boss. In a play-friendly cut and breathable fabric, this look is perfect for the wedding season. Add a straw trilby and boat shoes for the ultimate in adorable.

Shorts suit and hat, POA, Boss

SWEET SPOTLIGHT Landing at Ounass is a delightful flurry of feminine detailing and whimsical frills. With m Gucci, Zimmerman, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, and Zimmerman, little ones are spoilt for choice. ounass.com

FOUR OF A KIND Fuss-free sandals for all occasions.

Sandals Dhs325 COS; Butterfly sandals Dhs195 Sophia Webster; Slides Dhs985 Givenchy; Slingback loafers Dhs1,350 Gucci at ounass.com

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FRONT ROW/THE WANTED COMPILED BY MICHAELA WILLIAMS

GO BOLD ATTENTIONGRABBING COLOURBLOCKING GETS A SATURATED UPDATE THIS SEASON

Sandals Dhs885 Chloé Overalls Dhs169 Mango Kids

Top Dhs495 Il Gufo

INSIDER TIP Add a bright accessory for a more subdued splash

Trainers Dhs310 Puma at ounass.com

Cap Dhs85 COS Dress Dhs310 Tommy Hilfiger

Shorts Dhs600 Chloé at Angels Hoodie Dhs470 DKNY Skinny jeans Dhs70 Marks & Spencer Bumbag Dhs2,690 Fendi at ounass.com

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Cool Kids Givenchy’s Clare Waight Keller gives childrenswear street cool All pieces from Givenchy

WORDS: SOPHIA SERIN

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All pieces from Givenchy

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FASHION/TRENDS

All pieces from Givenchy

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WORDS: SOPHIA SERIN

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THE RULE

BREAKERS

Full-spirited fun from Balmain

WORDS: SOPHIA SERIN

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WORDS: SOPHIA SERIN

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FASHION/TRENDS

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WORDS: SOPHIA SERIN

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FEATURES/LIFESTYLE

The baby whisperers OUR PANEL OF EXPERTS HAVE ANSWERED YOUR MOST PRESSING QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR BUB’S DEVELOPMENTAL FIRSTS, FROM WEANING TO FINDING THAT PERFECT SLEEP ROUTINE

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SOPHIE JONES explains weaning

ophie Jones is a parenting advisor at Babies and Beyond, offering private home and office consultations, as well as workshops on a number of topics to support and guide parents through the many different stages of child development. babiesandbeyond.ae Is there an ideal age to begin weaning? The recommended age to begin weaning, according to the NHS and the WHO, is at around the age of six months. Some babies may be ready to start before then, so it is important to look for signs that your baby is ready and also to check with your pediatrician.

Do you recommend child-led weaning or parent-led weaning? I encourage parents to first gather information on both weaning methods and then choose which works best for your family. There are pros and cons to both, but I believe that finding a balance helps to develop all of the important skills, whilst ensuring a healthy nutritious diet is achieved.

How can parents best support their child through weaning? Introducing solids can sometimes seem overwhelming to start, so I would encourage parents to start slowly and go at your baby’s pace. New flavours, textures and learning the skills can take practice and time. To support your baby, offer plenty of positive encouragement and praise whilst making meal times a fun time.

What are the signs that you are weaning too soon? If your baby is unable to maintain a strong sitting position, 28 emirates woman mini

continues to push the food out with their tongue and is unable to swallow, or has poor control over their head, these are signs that they are not yet ready for weaning.

How does introducing food work? Weaning should be a slow, gradual process of introducing foods and textures.

The first foods are often fruits, vegetables and cereals, which are easy to digest and gentle on your baby’s stomach.

To start, a daily meal will be enough. Find a time in the day when your baby is relaxed, not overtired or overly hungry and offer a few spoons. At three to four weeks into weaning, your baby may be ready to try breakfast. Add dinner at around five to six weeks. Every baby is different and it is important to go at their pace.

Is it ok to feed my baby prepackaged baby foods?

I believe homemade food is best for your baby as you have the knowledge and the control over the ingredients. Prepackaged foods can often taste different to homemade foods, so getting your baby used to your cooking is important. Of course, store-bought baby food can be very useful, but I wouldn’t rely on those foods on a daily basis.

For easy, on the go baby food, put a banana or avocado in your bag!

What if my baby has an allergy or intolerance? It is essential to have a clear idea of the signs and symptoms of a food allergy or intolerance, so that you can be properly prepared. Check your family history with your doctor, and keep a diary of new foods eaten and any reactions, whether that be nappy rash, bloating, gas, mood changes or signs of something more serious such as vomiting, stomach cramps, rashes around the mouth or on the body.

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JULIE MALLON explains your child's sleep

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ith more than 30 years of experience as a health visitor, midwife and community nurse, Julie works with parents as a certified sleep consultant, with training from the International Maternity Institute. As a maternal support educator at Nurture to Sleep, Julie takes an emphatic yet scientific approach to her role. +971 56 115 6134 How important is the sleeping environment? This is very much about safety, love and security which are interwoven and build the trust of our babies to sleep. Within, communication security needs to be developed as does creating a physical environmental security. We as adults sleep best in our beds – that we are familiar in – and our children are the same. A number of studies have shown a link between irregular sleep locations and sleep issues.

How do you create a nighttime routine? Newborns have no concept of day or night, and have no internal clock of when they should be awake or asleep in those early days – they just know when they’re hungry and when they’re not.

By establishing a calming nighttime routine, you can help them learn that evenings are for winding down, and night is for sleeping. A soothing bath, followed by a little baby massage with calm physical contact. A white noise machine can also be very beneficial as they are reminiscent of the loud sounds that a baby heard in the womb for nine months.

Never underestimate just how much a baby can understand and what they are absorbing. Have a predictable routine and focus on keeping a baby’s room cool at 20-22C, dark and quiet to support better sleep.

Why does a child wake up during the night? There are several factors - are they experiencing a cognitive growth spurt, are they breastfed or formula fed, have they developed age appropriate self-soothing skills? There are so many variables within the first year and sleep is very dynamic and not a straight line. It must also be genuinely noted that all children are different and that ‘national sleep averages’ are exactly that – averages.

How do you set a sleep schedule for your baby? It’s important to have realistic expectations and know that a flexible, organic and age-appropriate routine is far more achievable. From about six months, I recommend putting children to bed when they are drowsy but still awake, so that they can develop appropriate sleeponset associations and learn to fall asleep on their own.

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This also helps children to fall back asleep quickly when they wake up.

Is co-sleeping safe? I think this is such a personal questions, and of more importance for parents to know that there are some circumstances in which co-sleeping with your baby can be very dangerous: Such situations include when one or both parents smoke (even if they do not smoke in the bedroom) or drink, if a parent is extremely tired or taking medication, and when a baby was born premature or at low weight.

When should a baby be sleeping through the night without feeding? From six months old, a well-rested baby should be down to a one feed per night maximum.

Most healthy infants start going all night without eating, anywhere between eight to 12 months. This depends on the individual child and how advanced the child is with solids.

FEATURES/LIFESTYLE

DR. SUMA ARUN explains baby development

A I M AG E S : G E T T Y

specialist pediatrician for Aster Clinic Al Qusais 1, Dr. Suma holds a Diploma in Child Health and Diplomate of National Board in Pediatrics. She’s accumulated 18 years of professional experience in pediatrics, working with her young patients and parents. asterclinic.ae What are the major developmental milestones a child should be meeting in their first year? Developmental milestones fall into four major domains – physical growth, cognitive, socio-emotional and language. Each of these include key areas that should be hit within a time frame.

How can parents best monitor their baby’s development?

Parents are usually the first to identify any change in their child’s health and development. It’s important for every parent to observe and understand their baby’s movements, sounds, speech and behaviour, and to make a record of these events. Every child is different, so it’s more important to check if the child is making progress forward, than if they are meeting the exact dates.

How regularly should they ‘check in’ with a professional?

All babies should be scheduled for a general health and immunisations check-up at one, two, four and six months.

For further development assessment, babies are seen at nine, 12, 18 and 24 months, where parents will be asked about concerns. Here, your pediatrician will observe the baby’s movement, behaviour, speech and play, and determine if the child has achieved the appropriate skillset for that age and if intervention is required Is being behind in one developmental area always a cause for concern? There is a specific age range where children are expected to attain the developmental milestones, but it is a wide window. For example, some babies start walking as early as nine months, and some don’t take their first step until they are 15 months. Still, both babies may be within the normal range and a minor delay for milestone is not always a reason to worry. But, it’s important that the baby with delayed walking is still meeting milestones in the other development domains. If there’s more than one delay, then further investigation is needed.

How do professional address missed milestones?

When I see a child with missed milestones, I’ll first observe their movements, speech and behaviour for my initial assessment. If significant delays are recognised, a full clinic evaluation is made, with hearing testing, metabolic screening and brain imaging potentially required. Specific interventions have to be made as soon as possible with the help of the child’s full support team, which can include physical and speech therapists, child psychologists, teachers and even social workers.

How can parents best support their child through developments? A parent is their child’s first teacher and should remain their best teacher throughout life.

Age-appropriate challenges and quality time spent with the child is crucial for their overall development. Please spend time holding and cuddling your baby, when they are alert and when they are relaxed. When your baby makes sounds, respond to them. Talk, sing, act out small scenes, and read to them. The child will learn new things, but also develop a strong bond with their parents.

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FEATURE/LIFESTYLE WORDS: BYÂ JESSICA GROSE

Teach Your Kids to Fail GETTING COMFORTABLE WITH SETBACKS WILL KEEP THEM CURIOUS AND ENGAGED FOR LIFE

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want to tell my children that they are smart all the time. Especially in the first few years of a child’s life, her rapid acquisition of skills and language feels nothing short of miraculous, even though it could not be more mundane. One day, she’s a sentient adorable lump, and an eyeblink later she’s speaking in full sentences. I have a particularly clear memory of watching one of my daughters figure out how to make a Magna-Tile house that would stand up on its own, and thinking: Look at this tiny architectural genius.

But many mainstream publications and decades of research now recommend that we do not tell our children they’re “smart” when they do impressive things, and it feels so counterintutive. When I first heard it, I instinctively bristled. It seemed like just another in a long list of scold-y admonishments from Big Parenting.

But. as I dug into the research, I was persuaded. It all goes back to something called “growth mindset.” The term was popularised and developed by Carol Dweck, a professor of psychology at Stanford, and it’s the notion that you can change your abilities through effort and strategy.

The alternative to a growth mindset is a “fixed mindset” — the idea that your abilities are innate and can’t be changed.

When we praise our children for being “smart,” based on triumphs — like solving a problem or doing well on a test (or figuring out how to construct a cube with Magna-Tiles), we’re unwittingly encouraging them to believe that if they do poorly or make mistakes, they’re not smart.

And it’s not just what we say about our children’s triumphs that matters — it’s how we tolerate their setbacks. A study that Kyla Haimovitz, Ph.D., co-authored with Dweck in 2016 showed that parents’ “failure mindsets” affect their children more than their views on intelligence. In other words, if parents think that failure is shameful, their children are more likely to be derailed by mistakes. But it’s subtle. For example, Dr. Haimovitz explained, your child may be struggling with early math concepts and you may say something like, “not everyone needs to be good at numbers,” as a way to comfort them. But what you’re really doing is implying that their math abilities are already set, and unchangeable.

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say or don’t say to your kids, you’re not going to get them to achieve perfect equanimity about every loss — it’s more about getting them more comfortable with failures big and small. Here are tips from Dr. Haimovitz about how to do that.

ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROCESS. One way the mainstream has incorporated growth-mindset research has been to praise our kids’ effort rather than their intelligence, but that can miss the mark. As Dr. Haimovitz pointed out to me, if you praise a kid for a school project he dashed off in five minutes, he’ll know your praise is empty. Instead, you can ask him questions about how he did it. You could say, “What an interesting drawing, tell me more about it,” or ask, “how did you solve this problem?” By telling you about his process, your child can give you insight into how he learns and help you know how to praise future efforts.

OBSERVE THEM CLOSELY. If your child is working on a task at home, watch her to see what behaviours she’s exhibiting that are worth encouraging. For example, if she’s very focused on making jewellery, point out and praise that focus; if she’s asking a lot of good questions about a book you’re reading to her, or reaching out for help when she needs it, you can praise those behaviours as well, Dr. Haimovitz said.

MODEL PERSISTENCE. It’s really good for kids to know you make mistakes and how they happen.

If you’re chatting over dinner or on the way home from pickup, you can say something like: “I made the wrong decision today, and I felt bad, but I eventually figured out that I was learning from this mistake,” and describe what you learned, or how you strategised a solution. “You don’t have to deny you have negative emotional reactions,” Dr. Haimovitz said. “We, as a society, don’t do that enough because we feel embarrassed when we make mistakes.” But if we highlight our missteps more and explain how we persevered, our children can learn to do the same.

CREATE SAFE SPACES FOR LEARNING. Dr. Haimovitz suggested that parents try to create meaningful challenges for their kids — things they’ll have to work at. And then encourage them to make mistakes and talk about them. In our house, that could be a puzzle.

I freaking hate puzzles because I think I’m not good at them; I struggle to do puzzles that are age-appropriate for our 3-year-old. So it could be a learning, growing and a failing experience for everyone.

MODEL PERSISTENCE. It’s really good for kids to know you make mistakes and how they happen.

If you’re chatting over dinner or on the way home from pickup, you can say something like: “I made the wrong decision today, and I felt bad, but I eventually figured out that I was learning from this mistake,” and describe what you learned, or how you strategised a solution. “You don’t have to deny you have negative emotional reactions,” Dr. Haimovitz said. “We, as a society, don’t do that enough because we feel embarrassed when we make mistakes.” But if we highlight our missteps more and explain how we persevered, our children can learn to do the same.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS NEW LAUNCHES AND INSIDER FINDS FROM THE EXPERTS

KEEP IT CLEAN Worried about what’s in your baby wipes? Dubai parents and Danish nationals, Jacob and Mai, were concerned about the ingredients in mainstream brands, leading them to create Velvaer. Eco-friendly and certified by bodies including Asthma Allergy Nordic, Velvaer wet wipes have a low environmental impact, and are free from alcohol, fragrance and micro-plastics, with free delivery. Gentle enough for both you and bub, these wipes are a skin-loving addition to your purse and change table. Wipes Dhs15 velvaer.com

HIT RESET

RED ALERT We’re found our new wearanywhere fragrance in Dior’s Rouge Trafalgar. Inspired by the designer’s iconic shade of red, the perfume builds notes of juicy strawberry, cherry and raspberry over citrus and blackcurrant, with an elegant base of patchouli and musk.

Rouge Trafalgar EDP Dhs950 Dior 36 emirates woman mini

See detoxes in a new light, with Health Nag’s threeday programme. The new UAE company’s philosophy centres around 100 percent plant-based ingredients, with each kit containing 30 herbal shakes designed to reset your digestive system, boost your immunity and up your energy levels. The programme can also be used to supplement your own healthy eating habits as a nutritional boost.

Health Nag 3 Day Detox Dhs670 healthnag.com

REACH NEW HEIGHTS With incredible views from the 54th floor of the Address Sky View hotel, the new Laloge salon elevates your average spa experience. The luxe menu includes 24k gold and diamond facial and caviar hair treatments, with private mani-pedi spaces giving you a little more from your me-time.

Open daily 10am-9pm, 050 721 4655

blood flow to revitalise your hair roots.

Miriam Quevedo Extreme Caviar Exfoliating Scrub Scalp Mask Dhs220 ounass.com

HAIR REVIVAL

RISE AND SHINE Instant skin brightening treats for mums on the run Rose Glow Mist Dhs95 Pixi at sephora.ae L’Essentiel Pore Minimizer Shine Control Primer Dhs195 Guerlain; Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector Dhs216 Laura Mercier at sephora.ae

POWERED BY GREENS Korea’s top beauty brand has finally reached the UAE, with Innisfree launching its flagship in The Dubai Mall.

Leveraging 15 ingredients from the volcanic Jeju Island, the Innisfree range takes a natural approach, with extract of green tea used to purify skin. The Green Tea Sleeping Mask is the perfect introduction to K-beauty, working overnight to replenish dehydrated complexions.

Dhs95 Innisfree

Combat post-pregnancy hair loss with a haircare collection formulated to rejuvenate the scalp and nourish new hair growth.

Miriam Quevedo’s luxurious Extreme Caviar range combats hair issues faced by new mums, combining naturals such as caviar extracts with scientific discoveries.

Our hero product is the Miriam Quevedo Extreme Caviar Exfoliating Scrub Scalp Mask, which removes cell and product build-up, encouraging

SOOTHE AND SMOOTH Massage Shiffa’s new healing balm on everything from dry skin, insect bites, sunburn and nappy rash. The balm to oil formula absorbs effortlessly into skin, with a secret blend of 15 plant extracts. Healing Balm Dhs420 Shiffa at sephora.ae

SUPER SERUM Pressed for time when it comes to your skincare routine? Try a multitasking serum that does it all. Now available at Lamise beauty, the Intensive EGF Peptide Serum from Coxir is loaded with hydrating hyaluronic acid, skin-pluming collagen, and peptides to slow the aging process.

Apply morning and night before your moisturiser to smooth your skin’s text, improve elasticity and replenish the dermis.

Dhs96 lamisebeauty.com

BEYOND THE ROUTINE Can’t commit to just one typr of exercise studio? The pioneering Fitness First Titanium club at the new Nakheel Mall has launched with an incredible array of tech-driven group fitness classes, tailored programmes, and a private women-only studio.

Try the gym’s first foray into hot yoga, flex with swing yoga, throw punches in the multi-sensory dedicated boxing studio, and tackle the boutique Kube HIIT studio, complete with Theragun massage recovery stops. The gym’s 3D body scanner allows you to pinpoint your body’s shape, posture and composition, for full control of your fitness journey. Membership prices vary; Fitness First Titanium Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah; 04 572 6168 emirates woman mini 37

FEATURES/LIFESTYLE WORDS: BY JESSICA GROSE

THE JOY AND PAIN OF RETURNING TO WORK LEAVING MY BABY FOR THE FIRST TIME WAS A RUSH, AND A TINY HEARTBREAK

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went back to work when my firstborn was six weeks old. Much like American author, Kaitlyn Greenidge, who took her six-week-old daughter to a conference and wrote a gorgeous essay describing her struggle to reconcile motherhood with her identity as an artist, I also stuggled.

I went back because we needed money, and because I wanted to. You could frame this as a “choice,” but it was a choice made in the context of various constraints.

I was freelancing at the time, so if I didn’t work, we didn’t have that income stream coming in. But I also knew I was not cut out for staying home alone with my baby all day.

Every day that winter I was on leave, I would be fine all morning, and sometimes joyful. I packed the first few hours of our day with activity: No matter how cold it was, I bundled my baby up in her fuzzy bear suit and took her outside for a walk. I rocked her while singing “You Are My Sunshine.” I dutifully joined a local mum group, searching for kindred spirits. I started dinner in the slow cooker. I cleaned all the infernal bits and pieces of the breast pump and the Dr. Brown’s bottles.

By mid-afternoon, I would run out of things to do, and would start feeling bored, and then, gradually, frantic. The sun set by 4:30pm, and there were hours more to go before I had help. I’d wait as long as possible before texting my husband: “eta? :)”.

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FEATURES/LIFESTYLE

N ET-A- P O RT E R , W H I T E C I T Y

“I FELT HIGH ON PRODUCTIVITY ALL DAY — UNTIL MIDAFTERNOON, WHEN I GREW TIRED, AND A LITTLE SAD. I MISSED THE WARMTH OF MY CHILD AGAINST MY CHEST.”

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passage from Anne Lamott’s groundbreaking parenting memoir “Operating Instructions,” where she described leaving her son, Sam, with his godparents so she could go to a movie, and feel vaguely human again: "It is just great to get away from Sam. At first. But then the jungle drums start beating and I feel like you do when you’re having a massive nicotine craving. This week, I sat alone in a theatre watching this totally dumb movie, but happily overeating in the dark, totally happy to be away from Sam, for about twenty minutes. Then the longing to be with him again became so intense that I sat there hyperventilating.

There was a ten-minute patch of time when I must have looked like I was doing Lamaze. I felt like I was totally decompensating. I finally had to leave, get an ice cream, and walk around town for a few minutes."

This push-pull — wanting to get away, wanting to come back — will never end. For me it got quieter and quieter as time went by, and now it’s the faintest beating, barely audible, most of the time. But there are those fleeting moments at work when I just want to run home, hug my kids and mash my face into my 3-year-old’s cold, smushy cheek after she comes in from outside. I hope those moments never fully go away

I M AG E S : G ET T Y I M AG E

I was trying so very hard to sound breezy, but by the time he walked through the door I’d be talking at him fast, and thrusting the baby into his arms.

So we found a sitter who would work 30 hours a week, and I joined a bare-bones co-working space near our apartment. On my first day back at work, I remember walking up a wide city block — filled with boutiques that sold shearling clogs and locally-made pottery, and restaurants serving pork belly appetisers — my heart swelling with freedom. I went into a coffee shop, and ordered a coffee without worrying about spilling it on the carrier, or into the diaper bag. I felt gloriously unencumbered.

I wondered if the barista could see it on my face.

I felt high on productivity all day — until midafternoon, when I grew tired, and a little sad. I missed the warmth of my child against my chest. I decided to call it a day around 4pm, and started the 20-minute walk home. About halfway there, I saw a phalanx of fire trucks and ambulances traveling in the direction of my building.

Immediately, I assumed that something had happened to my baby, and I broke into a sprint. I ran the rest of the way home, and entered my apartment, panting, to find her sleeping soundly in her bassinet with the nanny nearby, nothing amiss.

Recalling this period of my life, I thought of a

LIFESTYLE/WELL BEING

LIFE, STYLED MULTI-TASKING APPLIANCES, BABY ESSENTIALS ON SUBSCRIPTION AND TRAVEL NEWS FOR ON-THE-GO FAMILIES STUDIO SESSIONS

DESERT ESCAPE Head to the dunes before the summer heat descends, with the newly launched Sonara Camp a mere 40 minutes away from Dubai. Focused on families, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve dining destination offers an eco-friendly and sustainable experience, powered by solar energy and with a zero-waste policy. Catch sight of the hundreds of oryxes and gazelles that call the reserve home, or take part in child-friendly activities, from astronomer-led star-gazing, to camel rides. nara.ae/sonara

SMART TRAVELLERS A survey of 1,500 teachers found that 74 percent of educators believe that having the opportunity to travel has “a very positive impact on students’ personal development”. The Student and Youth Travel Association commissioned study also found that travelling as a child can extend to positively impacting a student’s higher education and career. No excuse for missing that Maldives weekend, then.

KITCHEN HELPER Known for its cult following, the Instant Pot has now arrived in the Middle East.

Invented by the Wang family to help families, the clever kitchen appliance uses 70 percent less energy, and the ‘set, then forget’ option safely creates meals while you get on with your day. Make yogurt, sauté vegetables, bake cakes, sous vide meals, or even cook an entire chicken in 20 minutes with the next gen cooker.

From Dhs499 Tavola

Focusing on freedom of movement, the new Puma Studio releases combines breathable fabrics with luxe detailing. The collection features soft pink, dove grey, black and white colourways, for street-togym wear. Mini-me with your little one in Puma’s kids’ range for a twinning moment.

Crop Dhs180; leggings Dhs290; jacket, Dhs250 all Puma Studio

YALLA ESSENTIALS Get your baby necessities – and a few treats – delivered to your door monthly, with the launch of Yalla Baby Box. Fill out your profile, and receive a bundle tailored to your child. Or choose from their collection of everything from bottles and teethers, to tummy butter and swimming pants. The site also offers a 24/7 chat, with doctors, pediatricians and psychologists.yallababy.com

CARRY ON Stay hands-free with one of Tumi’s new stylish yet practical backpacks. The graphic floral print adds a freshness to the carry-all’s utilitarian design, making it ideal as an easy travel carryon or day pack. Backpack Dhs1,730 Tumi emirates woman mini 41

B COMPLEX, ZINC, COPPER AND SELENIUM

SUPPLEMENT FOR SUCCESS GIVE YOUR CHILD THE BEST START POSSIBLE WITH THESE ESSENTIAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR PRE-, POSTAND DURING PREGNANCY

A

This collection of vitamins and minerals are often grouped together in a single supplement, says Dr. Biju. “B complex, zinc and copper and selenium help ensure a healthy baby is delivered by minimising the risk of birth defects and also help in relieving some symptoms of pregnancy.” Take prior to conception to reap the full health benefits.

Pregnancy Formula, Dhs166, Equi London

well-balanced diet can set you and your child up for a healthy pregnancy and beyond, but often nature needs a little nudge to make sure both of your bodies are getting the exacts nutrients they need. “Supplements are essential to ensure you and your baby are well nourished and healthy before and throughout the term of the pregnancy,” says Dr. Anitha Sophia Biju, MBBS, MD (OBGYN), specialist obstetrician and gynecologist at Aster Clinic, Bur Dubai. As always, she points out, “it is best to start supplements only after consulting with your doctor and gynecologist,” with some mothers requiring higher or lower does of certain vitamins and minerals. Dr. Biju has highlighted the supplements that she considers essential for those trying to conceive, mums-to-be, and new mothers, with some of these nutrients necessary throughout all stages.

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LIFESTYLE/WELL BEING

I M AG E S : S U P P L I E D

DHA AND OMEGA-3 “Women should build up these essential fats at least six months prior to conception,” advises Dr. Biju.

“Multiple and close pregnancies can reduce the mother’s levels of both omega-3 fatty acids and DHA.” DHA or docosahexaenoic acid is an essential fatty acid from the omega-3 family in supporting the development of the child’s brain, eye and nerve, with medical experts deeming its intake critical for fetal neurodevelopment, aiding in a safe gestation period and birth weight. However, omega-3 is most commonly found in seafood, which is restricted during pregnancy. Instead, take fish oil containing 650mg of omega-3, 300mg of which is DHA, per week to top up.

Wild Alaskan Fish Oil, Dhs137, Wiley’s Finest at Aster Pharmacy

IRON

VITAMIN D

CALCIUM

FOLIC ACID

With pregnant women requiring 50 percent more iron, the mineral is used by your body to create extra blood for both you and baby, and to nourish cell growth. “Iron is critical for oxygen transport and healthy growth and development of the fetus and placenta,” points out Dr. Biju. The doctor says that women with an iron deficiency can easily develop anemia, leading to extra fatigue and reduced energy during pregnancy. Take 30mg of iron per day from pre-conception to at least six months postbirth to help your body in recovery.

Wow! High Potency Liquid Iron, Dhs167, Nova Ferrum

“This vitamin is important for immune function, bone health and cell division,” explains Dr. Biju.

Taken pre-natal and during pregnancy, it aids in skeleton development and muscle growth by regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphate by the body. As a postpregnancy supplement, vitamin D passes from mother to baby via breast milk, engaging further bone growth and preventing conditions like rickets.

Formula is fortified with vitamin D, making extra doses unnecessary. Women who cover or who have limited exposure to sunshine are at great risk of vitamin D deficiency, and should take pay extra attention to meeting their 10mg daily requirement.

The Motherload, Dhs330, Goop Wellness

“Calcium is recommended in the first trimester as the child begins to develop bones,” says Dr. Biju.

As your fetus grow, it takes calcium directly from the mother’s own supplies to build bones and teeth. To top up this depletion, pregnant women require at least 1,000mg of calcium per day. The doctor adds that calcium supplements are recommended for the mother to prevent weakened bones, for up to six months after giving birth.

Pimp My Calcium, Dhs55, Hum Nutrition

One of the crucial supplements to be taken from pre-natal through to postbirth, folic acid should be taken as early as six months before conception.

“Folic acid plays an integral role in DNA synthesis, red blood cell production and the growth and development of your child,” says Dr. Biju.

Naturally found in vegetables including broccoli, spinach and mushrooms, and eggs, and nuts as folate, the water-soluble nutrient is easily destroyed in the cooking process, making supplements of at least 400mg necessary. Taking this B group vitamin reduces the likelihood neural tube defects such as spina bifida, by supporting your baby’s nervous system development in the first few weeks of pregnancy.

Super Folate, Dhs109, Blueberry Naturals at Aster Pharmacy emirates woman mini 43

Easy weeknights

Stuck in a Sunday to Thursday dinner rut? These quick and veggie-loaded meal ideas from Zahra Abdalla, author of Cooking with Zahra, will have little ones asking for seconds

LIFESTYLE/FOOD

BEEF LASAGNE Serves 6-8 Ingredients 1 packet boil-free lasagne pasta 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated 1 cup Emmental cheese, grated For meat sauce 2 celery stalks, finely chopped 2 carrots, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 tsp minced garlic 500g ground beef 2 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper powder 2 cans chopped tomatoes 3 tbsp tomato paste 2 tbsp oregano 1⁄2 tsp sugar 3 cups water Olive oil For béchamel sauce 5 tbsp butter 5 tbsp all-purpose flour 5–6 cups milk 4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp white pepper powder A pinch of nutmeg Method • For the meat sauce, in a medium-sized pot, sauté the celery, carrots and onions with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the ground beef and season with salt and black pepper powder.

Once the meat has browned, add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, sugar and water; mix and bring the mixture to a boil on high heat, then cover the pot and leave to simmer on low heat for about 25 minutes until the sauce thickens.

• To make the béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a separate pot on medium–low heat. Mix the flour with the melted butter to make the roux, continue mixing until it turns slightly goldenbrown. Add the milk and continue mixing to avoid any clumps and sticking to the base. If the sauce is too thick, add more milk. Season with salt, white pepper powder and nutmeg. Remove from heat and keep aside.

• To assemble, alternatively layer the meat sauce, béchamel sauce and lasagne pasta in a large ovenproof casserole. Repeat at least 2–3 times depending on the depth of the tray. On the final layer, pour the remaining meat sauce, then the béchamel sauce and top with the cheeses.

• Cover the tray with foil paper and bake in an oven, preheated at 200°C, for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is goldenbrown. emirates woman mini 45

LIFESTYLE/FOOD

GARLIC SHRIMP AND CORIANDER PASTA Serves 4-6 Ingredients 400g dried spaghetti 1kg jumbo shrimps, shelled, deveined and cleaned Olive oil 1 onion, thinly sliced 2 tsp minced garlic 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Salt Freshly ground black pepper Handful of fresh coriander, roughly chopped 1 lemon, halved Chilli flakes (optional) Method • Add water into a large pot and bring to a boil. Add about 4 teaspoons of salt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the spaghetti. Cook for about 7 minutes until the spaghetti is al dente; drain the pasta and reserve ¼ cup of pasta water.

• In a wok, add a couple tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onions on medium heat until translucent. Add the garlic and tomatoes, and stir for a couple of minutes.

Then add the jumbo shrimps and sauté until the shrimps change to a light pink colour, and season with salt and pepper.

• Add the cooked spaghetti and the pasta water into the wok; toss the ingredients together. Top with the chopped coriander, a squeeze of lemon and optional chilli flakes, and serve.

46 emirates woman mini

LOOBIA POLO (Persian rice with beans) Serves 4 Ingredients 3 cups basmati rice Water Salt 2 medium onions, chopped Vegetable oil 500g ground beef 2 tsp minced garlic 1 tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp cinnamon powder 1/2 tsp black pepper powder 500g green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces 1/3 cup tomato paste 1 cup chopped tomatoes 1 tsp rose water 1 tsp sugar A pinch of ground saffron 2 small potatoes, sliced 3 tbsp butter Method • Rinse the rice with cold water

until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in 6 cups of cold water, add 6 tablespoons salt and set aside for a couple of hours.

• In a medium-sized saucepan, sauté the onions in oil over medium–high heat until it becomes translucent. Add the meat, garlic, turmeric powder, cinnamon powder, 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper powder and sauté for at least 3–5 minutes until the meat is browned. Add the green beans, tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, rose water, sugar and saffron along with 1⁄2 cup of water; mix well, cover and leave to simmer on low heat for about 20–30 minutes.

• In a large pot, add 6–8 cups of water and a couple tablespoons of vegetable oil, and bring to a boil. Drain the rice and add to the boiling water. Cook for 7–10 minutes until the rice is al dente - soft from the outside and firm

in the centre. Drain and rinse the rice in cold water.

• Wipe clean the large pot, add 3 tablespoons of oil and arrange the sliced potatoes in a circular layout at the base. Fry on high heat without stirring for 3–5 minutes. Place the rice and meat mixture in alternating layers, building it up into a dome shape and poke 4–5 holes in the rice top layer with the bottom of a wooden spoon.

• In a small cup, melt and mix 3 tablespoons of butter with 1⁄2 cup boiling hot water and a pinch of saffron, and pour over the rice. Cover the pot and cook on high heat until it begins to steam. Wrap the pot’s lid with a kitchen towel and cook the rice for an additional 30 minutes on low heat.

• Scoop the rice oto a platter, serve with the crispy potato crust (tahdig), salad and a big dollop of plain yogurt.

Zahra’s recipes are also available to order from her Zahra’s Kitchen concept, via Deliveroo and other UAE delivery apps.

emirates woman mini 47

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Striped poplin dress and shorts Dhs470

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I M AG E I L G U F O

CLASSIC PINSTRIPES FOR SUMMER HOLIDAYS, PERFECT FOR YOUR BUSY LITTLE BEES.