Mummy and Me Magazine Summer 2016 Issue

SUMMER 2016 ISSUE CHANCE TO WIN

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ADVENTURE

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO

SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES

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CONTENTS 4

6 8

Ask the Expert - Sarah from The Physiotherapy Centre, Liverpool talks ‘Pelvic Floor and Stress Incontinence (Featuring Diary Doll)

Metanium - COMPETITION to win a Cuddledry Bath Towel

11

Contents

Pregnancy -

Baby and Toddler Show Manchester 7-9 October Use Code BTN24 for 1/3 off

5

10

Advertisements

Summer Holidays Activities (Follow us on Facebook for a daily guide)

22 Celebrations for the Mum-to-be ‘Nappytastic Baby Showers’

24 Celebrations & Children

- Celebrating the 25 Celebrations Naming of your Child with Lily Mae Ceremonies

26

Celebrations for Children’s Birthdays

Celebrations with Children -

27 Editor’s Picks for celebratory

Well, my eldest daughter Eden has just completed her Reception year at Primary School and she is very excited to be becoming a ‘Big Year One’ pupil in September. Me on the otherhand, I feel like I blinked and my baby has become this intelligent five-year-old. The tiny fragile little girl I waved off last September with a tear in my eye as she heading into ‘Big School’ will now be one of the bigger ones. And just to add to the emotion, my second daughter Bethany will be starting at Preschool there too in September! The time really does fly and I urge you to enjoy every second.

So, the school holidays are upon us and I am really looking forward to having all 4 of my girls together to have some fun together and make some memories. This issue has some great ideas to keep your little ones entertained over the summer months. I also encourage you to follow our Facebook page facebook.com/ mummyandmemagazine for a daily timetable posted throughout the school summer holidays (there were so many fantastic activities that we couldn’t accommodate them all ‘in print’).

See you in September for our Autumn issue in conjunction with the Baby & Toddler Show (Manchester) - Make sure you get your tickets!

Michelle Thompson

wardrobe choices and gifts

28

Annabel Karmel Summer Salads

30

Daddy and Me Commando Dad: Mission Adventure Get Active with your Kids

32

Baby and Toddler Show Manchester

/mummyandmemagazine Magazine Founder & Director Michelle Thompson Researchers/Critiques Eden, Bethany & Faye Thompson

Letter from the Editor

APR - MAY 2016 ISSUE

Magazine Founder & Director Mummy to Eden (5 years), Bethany (3 years), Faye (23 months) and Aimee (5 months).

info dme myan m u @m gazine a m .co.uk 790 : 07 o Edit r 9004 72

@mummyandmemag

Assistant Editor Sue Bennett

Special Needs Consultant Anita Harris

Educational Researcher Danielle Furber

issuu.com/mummyandmemag Artist/Illustrator Ilan Sheady

Creative Learning Consultant Alan Bennett

Creative Designer Neil Bennett

Photographer & Stylist Elanza Butters

Pregnancy

Breastfeeding - What toExpect...

T

here are many changes that take place during pregnancy, one of which is that your breasts prepare for their role in making milk.

From about 20 weeks into your pregnancy, your breasts will produce a rich mixture of proteins, vitamins and substances for fighting infections, this is called colostrum. This is usually a yellow/golden colour.

may wish to use a scarf or shawl over your shoulder. Breastpads will also help to absorb any milk you may leak.

Your baby’s instinct is to breastfeed, this instinct is particularly strong after birth, therefore it may help if you spend time cuddling your baby on your chest with your skin against theirs. Skin-to-skin can be done after a Caesarean section as well as a vaginal birth.

But if you are unable to have skin-to-skin with your baby post-birth, you can do this at a later stage. Don’t expect breastfeeding to happen straight away, some babies don’t (perhaps due to sleepiness affected by the pain relief drugs used in labour). A midwife should be on-hand to assist you should you want help.

After birth, your baby feeding will send signals to your breasts to produce milk. At around 3-4 days, the colostrum changes into a whitish milk. This milk is more creamy (higher in fat) and more satisfying for your baby.

The more your baby feeds, the more milk you will produce.

Once they have finished If you feed for just Once out of hospital, many women do not feeding on one breast, 1 day the antibodies feel comfortable feeding in public places. offer the other. in your colostrum will Some department stores such as John provide natural immunity If feeding is comfortable Lewis, offer ‘feeding rooms’ that offer a and your baby is from infection and will help relaxed and more private environment your womb to contract content after feeds, they for breastfeeding Mums to be able to feed. are likely to be feeding towards normal size.

Meeting other breastfeeding Mums can help correctly and getting too. There are many NCT groups or groups enough milk. Check your offered by your local Children’s Centre to baby’s nappies to make sure help support breastfeeding Mums. that they are having wet and soiled Here you will have the chance to nappies throughout the day. It is If you feed for share experiences with others, also advisable to see how much 6 weeks your baby and often a trained Breastfeeding weight your baby has gained is at less risk of chest Support Worker will be present after the first couple of weeks. infections for up to 7 years! to address any problems or Your Midwife or Health Visitor For you, breast-feeding concerns you may have. should offer this when they means you can go out and visit your home. After you have You can breastfeed for as long as about without bottle been discharged by your Midwife, you and your baby want to. The feeding equipment. there should be a local clinic or (*NCT) World Health Organisation (WHO) Children’s Centre offering a and the UK Department of Health weekly weigh in session that recommend giving solely breastmilk for you may wish to attend. the first six months and then continuing to breastfeed whilst introducing solid Getting yourself measured for a food. WHO recommend continuing to few nursing bras will help you feel breastfeed for at least two years due comfortable when feeding. A great to better health outcomes. However place to find the right style for you is long you decide to breastfeed is www.bras4mums.co.uk who offer a entirely up to you and your baby. full range including; Bravado, Cake Lingerie, Emma-Jane, Carriwell, For advice and support, the Hot Milk and many more. There National Childbirth Trust (NCT) are also many nursing tops on offer a helpline, you can reach the market that help make feeling them on 0300 330 0700 and easier too. Even stores such as they will be happy to assist H&M and George at ASDA offer with any queries you may have very reasonably priced nursing including continuing to feed tops! For discreet feeding when returning to work. when out and about, you

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Birth & Beyond

?

ASKthe

Exper t

Each issue we will be putting YOUR questions to our panel of experts.

This issue, Physiotherapist and Company Director of ‘The Physiotherapy Centre’ (Liverpool) Sarah Johnson discusses Pelvic Floor and Stress Incontinence* *Also featuring research and information from ‘Diary Doll’

I

t’s a taboo, in fact almost a secret subject, one that affects so many women and yet no one wants to talk about it because it’s embarrassing! We are talking life’s little leaks, or stress incontinence.

The N.H.S explains: Stress incontinence occurs when the pressure inside your bladder as it fills with urine becomes greater than the strength of your urethra to stay closed (the urethra is the tube through which urine passes out of your body). Any sudden extra pressure on your bladder, such as laughing or sneezing, can then cause urine to leak out of your urethra. (www.nhs.uk/Conditions/ Incontinence-urinary)

Am I alone having this problem?

“More than 9 million women in the UK are incontinent and many suffer in silence because they are embarrassed. The average time a woman waits to seek treatment for incontinence is 7 years.”

Has pregnancy caused this problem?

“Pregnancy & delivery are risk factors for developing incontinence (particularly delayed second stage of labor, multiple vaginal deliveries and forceps delivery). Many women

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WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

also have other risk factors present prior to becoming pregnant (e.g obesity, being a smoker). This does not mean that every woman will develop incontinence after have a baby. Infact, 1 in 3 women experiences pelvic floor dysfunction and not all of them have been pregnant and had babies”.

I didn’t do my pelvic floor exercises in pregnancy, now I have this weakness am I too late?

“The NICE guidelines recommend a trial of supervised pelvic floor muscle training of at least three months duration as first line treatment for women with incontinence”.

Some incontinence postnatally is normal right?

“Although common, it is not ‘normal’ and I urge any woman suffering with incontinence to book an appointment with their GP and/or seek treatment from a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist”.

The Physiotherapy Centre in Allerton, Liverpool offers a professional Women’s Health Service with specialist staff trained to provide pelvic floor rehabilitation. For more information call 0151 724 2060 to speak to our friendly and supportive team.

Celebrities Carole Smillie and Annabel Croft have joined forces to create their own DiaryDoll brand of award winning, technical underwear developed to help women of all aged with those little leaks, and build confidence back into their lives.

They are so committed to the cause, they have formulates partnerships with both the Bladder & Bowel Foundation, and the ACA (Association of Continence Advisors) who are both delighted to find a pretty product available like DiaryDoll, and to finally get these issues recognised and openly discussed.

Carole Smillie comments ‘The scale of stress incontinence is extreme and women should not be suffering in silence because they are embarrassed to talk about their incontinence issues’.

Smillie continues, ‘Stress incontinence can have a severley detrimental impact on day-to-day activity. We are so proud that DiaryDoll has given confidence back

65 Booker Ave, Liverpool, L18 4QZ 'We see many pain As physiotherapists weuncomplicated, bring our free pregnancies.

However, extensive knowledge of anatomywe , are also experienced in treating antenatal fitness and evidence based practise spinal and andofcan offer a range of topelvic deliverdysfunction you a selection Women's physiotherapy Health Services under oneinterventions' roof.

Obstetric Physiotherapy Diastasis Recti Stress Incontinence Postpartum Physio Check Pre & Postnatal Pilates*

*Babies Welcome

'We see many uncomplicated, pain free pregnancies. However, we are also experienced in treating antenatal spinal and pelvic dysfunction and can offer a range of physiotherapy interventions' - Sarah Johnson Clinic Director

email@thephysiotherapycentre.com

0151 724 2060

to so many women and has provided the support they need to get back to their dancing, gym classes and generally enjoying themselves again.’

DiaryDolls contain a secret waterproof panel to protect clothing and bedding against any embarrassing leaks* – perfect for periods, pelvic floor weakness, or even post maternity. DiaryDolls are machine washable and look and feel exactly like your favourite pants, giving you extra time when you need it most. Stockists include: Amazon, Boots & John Lewis. R.R.P £14.95 Worn together with your normal protection, nobody need ever know! * Must be worn with normal sanitary protection.

Visit www.diarydoll.com for more information, advice and pelvic floor exercises.

HAVE

YOUR SAY? ASK THE EXPERT...

Send your questions to:

asktheexpert @mummyandmemagazine.co.uk All questions sent to our panel will be published anonymously and any personal information will be treated confidentially. *Always speak to your own midwife or GP for any urgent concerns.

WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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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.

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ath time can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your baby. To help avoid nappy rash, NHS Choices recommends that you ‘Dry your baby gently after washing them, and avoid vigorous rubbing’ . Using a Cuddledry Baby Bath Towel is a perfect way to do this because it contains bamboo which is supersoft and highly absorbent. Metanium has four award-winning Cuddledry ‘handsfree’ Baby Bath Towels (RRP £30) to give away plus a sample of Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion.

double action formula to provide Closing date daily protection from 30th September 2016 nappy rash and is gentle enough to use every day and at each nappy change. It’s also available in a handy spray. Double-action Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash. Two sprays should be enough to form a thin protective layer that protects the skin. Pat around the area to maximise coverage. No need to rub in.

The Cuddledry Baby Bath Towel is worn like an apron, keeping you dry and leaving both hands free to lift your baby from the bath. It gently cocoons and cuddles your baby dry quickly due to the highly absorbent and fast drying natural bamboo and pure cotton.

If nappy rash does strike, Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is licensed specifically to treat nappy rash. Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine, always read the label.

Using a barrier ointment or lotion will help protect your baby’s delicate skin. Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment has a unique

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Summer Activities Guide 2016 For a daily guide over the school summer holidays follow us on Facebook

Babies and toddlers will look cool and stylish this summer in the Béaba 360° Sunglasses (RRP £25). With unique flexible, Hols curved frames, that are not only comfortable but also stay on you little ones face, even if they are in a pram. Three sizesTrains XS Strap Virgin for 3-9 months, Baby S from Seat 9-12 monthsRadian and Kid MCar for 12+ months. Available at John Lewis, Tidy Freaks Amazon and JoJo Maman Bebe.

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Travelling with a weaning baby can be difficult. Finding suitable foods or suitable equipment to make your own purees. OXO TOT have thoughtfully designed a Mash Maker allowing you to mash up a tasty treat whether you’re at home or travelling. Available from Lakeland for just £25.

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The Diono Dreamliner, a home from home travel basinet, providing a lightweight, compact and portable sleep solution for babies up to 6 months. Ready to use right out of the box, it unfolds in seconds automatically clipping into place. A super safe sanctuary for a sleeping baby, with thick mattress and adjustable hood for extra comfort and protection. Suitable from birth.

Perfect for all families, and little adventurers who need safe, comfortable sleep wherever they are. R.R.P £70

Mummy and Me Magazine have picked some of our favourite holiday accessories that make travelling with your baby easier and more enjoyable.

Create a snoozy sleeping environment with the versatile Gro Anywhere Blind. Designed to ‘go’ anywhere with you, and can be put in place in minutes. Attaches directly to the glass using suction cups, ensuring a close fit that really does block light properly.

RRP £29.99

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The Cuddledry SPF50+ poncho towel is the first of its kind in the UK. It uses the patented RayosanTM technology, deflecting harmful UVA and UVB rays like a mirror. Made with Cuddledry’s signature blend of gorgeously supersoft bamboo and cotton. £27.99 from cuddledry.com

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The Béaba UV-Resistant Tent, is the perfect solution to sun protection wherever you are. Easy to assemble, pop-up design, perfect for use anywhere. Compact carry bag for easy transportation, a mosquito net and side ventilation.

The Béaba UV-Resistant Tent (RRP £31.50) offers protection from UV rays and rain and is suitable for children from 0-4 years. Available at John Lewis, Amazon and JoJo Maman Bebe.

Follow us on Facebook for daily listings throughout July and August for FREE and LOW COST activities over the School Summer Holidays Thursday September 1st All Day

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11:00am -­‐ 12:00pm Sally Tonge: Stories & Laughter Blacon Adventure Playground & City Farm Cherubs Breastfeeding Group 11:30am -­‐ 13:00pm + Health Visitor BAMBIS Breastfeeding Support 12:30pm -­‐ 14:00pm Group 11:00am -­‐ 18:00pm

13:00pm -­‐ 14:00pm Sally Tonge: Stories & Laughter 13:00pm -­‐ 14:30pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm 13:30pm

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14 |

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WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Health Visitor Drop In

Infant Feeding Clinic Breast/Formula Feeding Issues Well Baby Clinic: 09:30am -­‐ 11:00am Weigh & play 09:30am -­‐ 11:00am

09:30am -­‐ 11:15am 09:30am -­‐ 11:30am 09:45am -­‐ 10:30am 09:45am -­‐ 11:00am 10:00am -­‐ 11:00am 10:00am -­‐ 11:00am 10:00am -­‐ 11:00am

Weight & Advice Clinic Breastfeeding Support Group Baby Little Explorers Under 18months Bambis Feeding Group Advice & support All Kinds of Play Confident Walkers -­‐ 5 years Bosom Buddies Breastfeeding Support roup Toddler Time

Portside Children's Centre Egerton Street Seacombe Children's Centre Dingle Lane Children's Centre Great Sankey Children's Centre, Liverpool Road

The Storybarn Reader Session www.thestorybarn.org.uk Toddler All Kinds of Play Drop in for carers of 18ms+ Baby Club Drop-­‐In for Parents/ Carers and Babies Makaton Signing for Babies (Grp for Under 5's with D.S) Smile Group: Self Help Group for P.N.D

Westy Children's Centre Tinsley Street Wavertree Children's Centre Seacombe Children's Centre Hurdsfield Children's Centre, Hulley Road

10:00am -­‐ 15:30pm

Rice Lane City Farm

Rawcliffe Road, Liverpool

10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

Activity Rooms @ Lady Lever

10:00am -­‐ 11:15am 10:00am -­‐ 11:30am 10:00am -­‐ 12:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 12:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 12:00pm

FREE

Siblings Welcome FREE Call for Info

15

Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH62 5EQ 0151 478 4136 FREE WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | Port Sunlight

10:00am -­‐ 15:30pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:30am onwards 10:30am -­‐ 17:00pm

Rice Lane City Farm

Rawcliffe Road, Liverpool

L9 1AW

0151 530 1066

FREE

Activity Rooms @ Lady Lever

Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight

CH62 5EQ

0151 478 4136

FREE

Sudley House, Mossley Hill

L18 8BX

0151 478 4016

FREE

L3 8EN

0151 478 4393

FREE

M3 4FP

0161 832 2244

FREE

Childhood and Small World Playrooms Eye for Colour Exibition 3rd Floor Imagine it, Make it, Move it 3 years+ Little Liverpool Sessions (Tickets at Desk) Pop Bottle Microscopes Science Workshop 7y+ Calderstones Urban Beach Free Beach, Rides Chargeable Radio City St Johns Beacon Viewing Gallery over Liverpool

11:00am -­‐ 12:00pm

Little Explorers (18m+)

11:00am -­‐ 12:00pm

Storyteller Fran O'Boyle

Cherubs Breastfeeding Group + Health Visitor Blacon Adventure Playground 11:00am -­‐ 18:00pm & City Farm Parent & Toddler Group 1-­‐5yr 12:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm Soft Play, B Castle & More!

11:00am -­‐ 12:30pm

13:00pm -­‐ 14:00pm

Storyteller Fran O'Boyle

13:00pm -­‐ 15:00pm

Little Stars

13:00pm -­‐ 15:30pm

Bumps to 5 years Parent Led Group

13:30pm -­‐ 14:00pm Bookstart Story & Rhyme Time

World Museum Liverpool Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester Museum of Liverpool

L3 1DG

0151 478 4545

FREE

Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester

M3 4FP

0161 832 2244

FREE

Calderstones Park

L18 3JD

Liverpool City Centre

L1

facebook.com/ Calderstonesbeach Under 5's FREE Adults £5.50

FREE Rides £1.50 No Need to Book

CH44 7AN

0151 630 1845

Call for Info

L3 8EW

0151 233 3069

FREE Drop In

WA16 8DB

01625 374 904

Drop In

CH1 5UU

01244 371 129

FREE

L17 1AG

0151 280 7757

L3 8EW

0151 233 3069

SK11 7TD

01625 374 484

Call for Info

CH45 5HU

0151 630 2731

Drop In

L11 0BS

0151 233 3069

FREE

WA5 0JG

01925 636 856

Siblings Welcome

WA6 7PZ

01244 976 210

Drop In

Seacombe Children's Centre Liverpool Central Library Discover Zone Knutsford Children's Centre Kipling Road, Blacon Greenbank Sports Academy, Greenbank Ln Liverpool Central Library Discover Zone Ash Grove Children's Centre New Brighton Children's Centre Croxteth Library

Baby All Kinds of Play Birth -­‐ Confident Walkers Breastfeeding Support Group Drop-­‐In

Little Stars Children's Centre Frodsham Children's Centre

14:00pm -­‐ 15:00pm

Great Outdoors

Garston Children's Centre

L19 8JZ

0151 233 6868

14:15pm -­‐ 15:15pm

Storyteller Fran O'Boyle

Liverpool Central Library Discover Zone

L3 8EW

0151 233 3069

13:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm 13:30pm -­‐ 15:30pm

£2.50 1st ch £1 add child FREE Drop In

FREE Call for Info FREE Drop In

Saturday September 3rd All Day

Yo Ho Ho Pirate Island

10:00am -­‐ 10:30am

Little Readers Book Club

10:00am -­‐ 11:15am

The Storybarn Reader Session www.thestorybarn.org.uk

10:00am -­‐ 15:30pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

Outside H&M, Golden Sq Warrington Marmalade Skies Tea Room & Play Café

16

FREE

L18 1LG

0151 280 3935

FREE

Calderstones Park

L18 3JB

hollywagstaff@ thereader.org.uk

Must Book

Rice Lane City Farm

Rawcliffe Road, Liverpool

L9 1AW

0151 530 1066

FREE

Activity Rooms @ Lady Lever

Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight

CH62 5EQ

0151 478 4136

FREE

L18 8BX

0151 478 4016

FREE

L3 8EN

0151 478 4393

FREE

M3 4FP

0161 832 2244

FREE

Childhood and Sudley House, Mossley Hill Small World Playrooms Eye for Colour Exibition World Museum 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 3rd Floor Liverpool Imagine it, Make it, Move it Museum of Science & 10:00am 17:00pm | -­‐WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK 3 years+ Industry, Manchester 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

WA1 1QB

10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:30am onwards 10:30am -­‐ 11:00am 10:30am -­‐ 17:00pm 11:00am -­‐ 12:00pm 11:00am -­‐ 18:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm

3rd Floor Imagine it, Make it, Move it 3 years+ Little Liverpool Sessions (Tickets at Desk) Pop Bottle Microscopes Science Workshop 7y+ Calderstones Urban Beach Free Beach, Rides Chargeable Rhymetime

L3 8EN

0151 478 4393

FREE

M3 4FP

0161 832 2244

FREE

Museum of Liverpool

L3 1DG

0151 478 4545

FREE

Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester

M3 4FP

0161 832 2244

FREE

Calderstones Park

L18 3JD

facebook.com/ Calderstonesbeach

FREE Rides £1.50

Walker Art Gallery Liverpool

L3 8EL

0151 478 4199

FREE

L1

Under 5's FREE Adults £5.50

No Need to Book

WA10 1DY

01744 676 954

Drop In

CH1 5UU

01244 371 129

FREE

L3 4AQ

0151 478 4499

FREE

L3 4AQ

0151 478 4499

FREE

L3 4AX

0151 478 4499

FREE

L3 8EN

0151 478 4393

FREE

Liverpool Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester

Radio City St Johns Beacon Liverpool City Centre Viewing Gallery over Liverpool The Big Friendly Read: St. Helen's Central Library Big Colour In Blacon Adventure Playground Kipling Road, Blacon & City Farm Bee's Knees Seized @ Bee related crafts & Activities Mersey Maritime Museum All Hand on Deck Merseyside Maritime Learn about famous phrases Museum, Liverpool Collage Creations International Slavery Museum, Inspired by Faith Ringgold Albert Dock World Museum Shadow Puppets Liverpool

Sunday September 4th Outside H&M, Golden Sq Warrington

All Day

Yo Ho Ho Pirate Island

10:00am -­‐ 11:15am

The Storybarn Reader Session www.thestorybarn.org.uk

Calderstones Park

10:00am -­‐ 15:30pm

Rice Lane City Farm

10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

Activity Rooms @ Lady Lever

10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm 10:30am onwards 10:30am -­‐ 17:00pm 11:00am -­‐ 18:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm 13:00pm -­‐ 16:00pm

WA1 1QB

FREE

L18 3JB

hollywagstaff@ thereader.org.uk

Must Book

Rawcliffe Road, Liverpool

L9 1AW

0151 530 1066

FREE

Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight

CH62 5EQ

0151 478 4136

FREE

L18 8BX

0151 478 4016

FREE

L3 8EN

0151 478 4393

FREE

M3 4FP

0161 832 2244

FREE

L3 1DG

0151 478 4545

FREE

M3 4FP

0161 832 2244

FREE

facebook.com/ Calderstonesbeach Under 5's FREE Adults £5.50

FREE Rides £1.50 No Need to Book

CH1 5UU

01244 371 129

FREE

L3 4AX

0151 478 4499

FREE

L3 8EN

0151 478 4393

FREE

L3 4AQ

0151 478 4499

FREE

Childhood and Sudley House, Mossley Hill Small World Playrooms Eye for Colour Exibition World Museum 3rd Floor Liverpool Imagine it, Make it, Move it Museum of Science & 3 years+ Industry, Manchester Little Liverpool Sessions Museum of Liverpool (Tickets at Desk) Pop Bottle Microscopes Museum of Science & Science Workshop 7y+ Industry, Manchester Calderstones Urban Beach Calderstones Park Free Beach, Rides Chargeable Radio City St Johns Beacon Liverpool City Centre Viewing Gallery over Liverpool Blacon Adventure Playground Kipling Road, Blacon & City Farm Collage Creations International Slavery Museum, Inspired by Faith Ringgold Albert Dock World Museum Shadow Puppets Liverpool Titanic Fashions & Fortunes Merseyside Maritime (Dress Up fun) Museum, Liverpool

L18 3JD L1

WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

|

17

Monday September 5th

Stay & Play 'Walkers & Talkers' 09:45am -­‐ 11:00am 18m -­‐ 4years

Claughton Children's Centre Lache & Handbridge Children's Centre Leasowe Nursery School & Family Centre Sutton Children's Centre Ellamsbridge Road Westy Children's Centre Tinsley Street Ash Grove Children's Centre Parklands Children's C Little Sutton Hurdsfield Children's Centre, Hulley Road Dingle Lane Children's Centre

09:45am -­‐ 11:45am

Twins and Multiples Group

Blacon Children's Centre

10:00am -­‐ 10:30am

Rhyme Time (15m -­‐ 3yr)

09:15am -­‐ 10:45am

Messy Play 0-­‐5 years

09:15am -­‐ 10:45am

Stay & Play

09:15am -­‐ 11:15am

Knit & Knatter Socialise & Learn New Skills

09:15am -­‐ 11:30am

Childminder Playgroup

09:30am -­‐ 10:15am

Baby Sing Along Birth to Walking -­‐ Drop In

09:30am -­‐ 11:00am

Stay and Play

09:30am -­‐ 11:00am

Stay and Play Drop In

09:30am -­‐ 11:30am

Childminder Drop In

CH43 9HG

0151 488 5948

Call for Info

CH4 8HX

01244 977 791

Call for Info

CH46 2QF

0151 639 8923

Term Time Only

WA9 3PY

01744 822 160

Call for Info

WA4 1RE

01925 570 870

Call Beforehand

SK11 7TD

01625 374 484

FREE

CH66 3RL

0151 337 6324

Call to Check if on

SK10 2LW

01625 378 081

Drop In

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

FREE

CH1 5DB

01244 976 225

Drop In

CH45 5HU

0151 630 2731

Julia 07789 867 589

L18 1JX

0151 233 6868

FREE

CH41 7AL

0151 670 9974

50p per child

L3 8EL

0151 478 4199

FREE

CH46 2QF

0151 639 8923

Drop In

CH62 5EQ

0151 478 4136

FREE

WA5 1SB

01925 446 244

Drop In

CH44 7AN

0151 630 1945

FREE Drop In

WA4 6PS

07773 382 016

Call for Info

WA16 8DB

01625 374 904

FREE

10:00am -­‐ 11:30am

St John's Tots

10:00am -­‐ 11:30am

New Parent Group Meet the Health Visiting Team

New Brighton Children's Centre Church & Mossley Hill Children's Centre St James Centre Birkenhead Walker Art Gallery Liverpool Leasowe Nursery School & Family Centre Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight Great Sankey Children's Centre, Liverpool Road Seacombe Children's Centre St John's URC Church Hall Wilderspool Causeway Knutsford Children's Centre

10:00am -­‐ 15:30pm

Rice Lane City Farm

Rawcliffe Road, Liverpool

L9 1AW

0151 530 1066

FREE

Activity Rooms @ Lady Lever

Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight

CH62 5EQ

0151 478 4136

FREE

L18 8BX

0151 478 4016

FREE

0151 478 4545

FREE

10:00am -­‐ 11:00am 10:00am -­‐ 11:00am

Bosom Buddies Breastfeeding Support roup St. James Jolly Tots Parent & Child Group

10:00am -­‐ 11:00am

Toddler Time

10:00am -­‐ 11:30am

A-­‐Z of Breastfeeding Support Play Group

10:00am -­‐ 11:30pm 10:00am -­‐ 11:30am 10:00am -­‐ 11:30am

10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

Art Play for Under 5's Bosom Buddies Breastfeeding Drop In Group Homestart Breastfeeding Support Group

Childhood and Sudley House, Mossley Hill Small World Playrooms Little Liverpool Sessions 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm Museum of Liverpool (Tickets at Desk) UNESCO World Heritage Meet outside Pumphouse Pub, 10:30am Waterfront BuggyTours Albert Dock Jingle Jangle 10:30am -­‐ 12:00pm Breck Road Library Stories, Rhymes & Craft Radio City St Johns Beacon 10:30am -­‐ 17:00pm Liverpool City Centre Viewing Gallery over Liverpool Fun with Stories Westy Children's Centre 10:45am -­‐ 11:30am Confident Walkers + Tinsley Street Baby Bounce and Rhyme St James Centre 11:00am (18 months and Under) Birkenhead | WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK Blacon Adventure Playground 11:00am -­‐ 18:00pm Kipling Road, Blacon 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

18

L3 1DG CH62 4XB L5 6PX

harriet@experienc e liverpool.com 0151 233 3069

Call 075544 18983 FREE

L1

Under 5's FREE Adults £5.50

No Need to Book

WA4 1RE

01925 570 870

Call Beforehand

CH41 7AL

0151 670 9974

FREE

CH1 5UU

01244 371 129

FREE

Confident Walkers + Baby Bounce and Rhyme 11:00am (18 months and Under) Blacon Adventure Playground 11:00am -­‐ 18:00pm & City Farm 11:15am -­‐ 11:45am Rhyme Time (Under 4 months) 11:15am -­‐ 11:45am

Under 5's Storytime

12:00pm -­‐ 14:00pm

Tots Café

12:30pm -­‐ 14:00pm

BAMBIS Breastfeeding Support Group

13:00pm -­‐ 14:30pm

Blossom -­‐ Young Parents Grp

13:00pm -­‐ 15:00pm 13:15pm -­‐ 14:45pm 13:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm 13:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm

Drop In Child Health Clinic Baby Weighing & Advice Messy Rascals with bookable Sensory Room All Kinds of Play Confident Walkers -­‐ 5 years Merry Music Stay & Play

13:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm Messy Play (0-­‐5 years) Drop-­‐In 13:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm

Positive Play

13:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm

Story, Song and Rhyme Time

13:30pm -­‐ 15:00pm

Rainbows Group Supported by Autism Together

13:30pm -­‐ 15:00pm

Stay and Play 0-­‐4 years

14:00pm -­‐ 14:45pm

Baby Sing Along Birth to Walking -­‐ Drop In

14:00pm -­‐ 14:45pm

Music session

15:30pm -­‐ 16:15pm

Multi-­‐Sensory Play

15:30pm -­‐ 16:15pm

Soft Play Physical Skills

Tinsley Street St James Centre Birkenhead Kipling Road, Blacon New Brighton Children's Centre Chester Library Northgate Street Speke Adventure Playground

CH41 7AL

0151 670 9974

FREE

CH1 5UU

01244 371 129

FREE

CH45 5HU

0151 630 2731

CH1 2EF

01244 977 380 0151 486 9719

Julia 07789 867 589 Term Time Only Optional lunch £1.50

West Derby Children's L12 9EY 0151 233 6202 Drop In Centre Brassey Gardens CH41 8DA 0151 652 1916 Call for Info Children's Centre Leasowe Nursery School CH46 2QF 0151 639 8923 Drop In & Family Centre Stanlaw Abbey Term Time CH65 9HE 0151 337 6425 Children's Centre Only Great Sankey Children's Siblings WA5 1SB 01925 446 244 Centre, Liverpool Road Welcome Leasowe Nursery School Term Time CH46 2QF 0151 639 8923 & Family Centre Only Fairfield & Howley WA2 7RQ 01925 443 131 Call for Details Neighbourhood Project Leasowe Nursery School Drop In CH46 2QF 0151 639 8923 & Family Centre Term Time Wavertree Children's L15 4LE 0151 233 6870 FREE Centre Seacombe Children's CH44 7AN 0151 630 1845 Drop In Centre A5 Mummy and Me Ad.qxp_Layout 1 17/02/2015 00:57 Page 1 Knutsford Term Time WA16 8DB 01625 374 904 Children's Centre D O W N S Y N D R O M E L I V E R P O O L Only Great Sankey Children's WA5 1SB 01925 446 244 Drop In Centre, Liverpool Road £3 per child Dingle Lane L8 9UB 0151 233 4930 /£5 family Children's Centre Dingle Lane L8 9UB 0151 233 4930 Must Book Children's Centre Dingle Lane L8 9UB 0151 233 4930 Must Book Children's Centre

Parent and Child Groups

CHILDWALL & WOOLTON CHILDREN'S CENTRE DINGLE CHILDREN'S CENTRE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: ANN KENWRIGHT (DSL TRUSTEE): M: 07955 777 909 E: ANN.KENWRIGHT@SKY.COM

WWW.DOWNSYNDROMELIVERPOOL.ORG.UK

WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

|

19

13:30pm -­‐ 15:00pm

Supported by Autism Together

13:30pm -­‐ 15:00pm

Stay and Play 0-­‐4 years

14:00pm -­‐ 14:45pm

Baby Sing Along Birth to Walking -­‐ Drop In

14:00pm -­‐ 14:45pm

Music session

15:30pm -­‐ 16:15pm

Multi-­‐Sensory Play

15:30pm -­‐ 16:15pm

Soft Play Physical Skills

Centre Knutsford Children's Centre Great Sankey Children's Centre, Liverpool Road Dingle Lane Children's Centre Dingle Lane Children's Centre Dingle Lane Children's Centre

CH44 7AN

0151 630 1845

Drop In

WA16 8DB

01625 374 904

Term Time Only

WA5 1SB

01925 446 244

Drop In

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

£3 per child /£5 family

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

Must Book

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

Must Book

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

Must Book

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

Must Book

Tuesday September 6th 09:30am -­‐ 10:30am

Multi-­‐Sensory Play

09:30am -­‐ 10:30am

Soft Play Physical Skills

09:30am -­‐ 11:00am

A-­‐Z of Breastfeeding Support Play Group

09:30am -­‐ 11:00am

Childminder Drop In

09:30am -­‐ 11:00am

Tots Health Club -­‐ Drop In

09:30am -­‐ 11:30am

Breastfeeding Support Group

Little Stars Group 09:30am -­‐ 11:30am (For Children with Disabilities)

Dingle Lane Children's Centre Dingle Lane Children's Centre New Brighton Children's Centre Brassey Gardens Children's Centre Stoneycroft Children's Centre

CH45 5HU

0151 630 2731

Health Visitor Avail

CH41 8DA

0151 652 1916

Call for Info

L13 6QJ

0151 233 4770

Drop In

Blacon Children's Centre

CH1 5DB

01244 976 225

Drop In

Kingway & Upton C Centre University of Chester

CH2 2LB

01244 976 100

Call for Info

L8 1XF

0151 233 3069

WA2 7RQ

01925 443 131

WA4 1RE

01925 570 870

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

CH42 2BL

0151 644 5500

Call for Info

L13 6QJ

0151 233 4770

Drop In

L3 1DG

0151 478 4545

FREE

L15 4LE

0151 233 6870

Drop In

CH62 5EQ

0151 478 4136

FREE

Sudley House, Mossley Hill

L18 8BX

0151 478 4016

FREE

Museum of Liverpool

L3 1DG

0151 478 4545

FREE

Liverpool City Centre

L1

Under 5's FREE Adults £5.50

No Need to Book

Kipling Road, Blacon

CH1 5UU

01244 371 129

FREE

10:00am -­‐ 10:30am

Stay and Play

Toxteth Library

10:00am -­‐ 10:45am

Baby Sing Along Birth to Walking -­‐ Drop In

Sunshine Children's Centre O'Leary Street Westy Children's Centre Tinsley Street Dingle Lane Children's Centre Rock Ferry Children's Centre Stoneycroft Children's Centre

10:00am -­‐ 11:00am

Baby Soft Play (0-­‐18m)

10:00am -­‐ 11:00am

Boogie Babies Music & Dance (18m -­‐ 4years)

10:00am -­‐ 11:30am

Baby Discovery (0-­‐8 months)

10:00am -­‐ 11:30am

BAMBIS Breastfeeding Group

10:00am -­‐ 12:00pm

Tiny Liverpool Toddler Group

10:00am -­‐ 12:00pm

Wavertree BAMBIS

10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

Activity Rooms @ Lady Lever

Childhood and Small World Playrooms Little Liverpool Sessions 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm (Tickets at Desk) Radio City St Johns Beacon 10:30am -­‐ 17:00pm Viewing Gallery over Liverpool Blacon Adventure Playground 11:00am -­‐ 18:00pm & City Farm 10:00am -­‐ 17:00pm

Museum of Liverpool Wavertree Children's Centre Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight

11:15am -­‐ 11:45am

Storytime

Neston Library Parkgate Road

CH64 6QE

0151 337 4670

12:00pm -­‐ 13:00pm

Baby Club Under 1's Play with Light Lunch

Picton Children's Centre

L7 6HD

0151 233 1200

CH65 9HE

0151 337 6425

CH66 3RL

0151 337 6324

Stanlaw Abbey Children's Centre Parklands Children's C 13:00pm -­‐ 14:00pm Twins Group Drop In | WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK Little Sutton Brassey Gardens 12:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm

20

Breastfeeding Support Group

FREE Term Time Call to Check if on Term Time Only Term Time Only

Term Time Only FREE Drop In Call to Check if on First Tue of Every Mnth

12:30pm -­‐ 14:30pm

Breastfeeding Support Group

13:00pm -­‐ 14:00pm

Twins Group Drop In

13:00pm -­‐ 14:30pm

Messy Play (18m -­‐ 5 years)

13:00pm -­‐ 15:00pm

BAMBIS Stay & Play (0-­‐5y) Light Lunch Provided

13:15pm -­‐ 14:45pm

Stay and Play

14:00pm -­‐ 14:30pm

Storytime (0-­‐5 years)

14:00pm -­‐ 14:45pm

Story & Rhyme Time (0-­‐4yrs)

Children's Centre Parklands Children's C Little Sutton Brassey Gardens Children's Centre Childwall Children's Centre Rudston Primary School Chester Rural Children's C Elton Primary School Frodsham Library Princessway Dingle Lane Children's Centre

CH65 9HE

0151 337 6425

CH66 3RL

0151 337 6324

CH41 8DA

0151 652 1916

Call for Info

L16 4PQ

0151 233 5733

Drop In

CH2 4LT

0151 338 2227

Call for Info

WA6 6RX

01244 977345

FREE

L8 9UB

0151 233 4930

MUST BOOK

on First Tue of Every Mnth

Date for your diary...

F

eld Entertainment, Inc., the worldwide leader in producing live touring family entertainment, announced that its 34th Disney On Ice spectacular will bring the Academy Award® winning and number one animated feature film of all time, Disney’s Frozen, to life. Disney On Ice presents Frozen is set to mesmerize audiences when the show skates into Echo Arena Liverpool from 30 November – 4 December for 9 magical shows; tickets go on sale Friday 20 May at 9am.

favourite characters from Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story and Finding Nemo and Disney’s The Lion King, who come together to prove that true love is the greatest power of all. Director Patty Vincent says, “Our goal is to showcase these heartwarming characters in a way that allows the audience to cheer and sing along throughout this emotional journey.”

Tickets are available from

www.disneyonice.com/ www.echoarena.com

or via the Echo Arena Box Office on

0844 8000 400

For a complete list of tour dates, visit the Disney On Ice website www.DisneyOnIce.com

The entire Academy Award® winning tale will be told live for the first time in this brand new production, capturing the dynamic between two royal sisters, Anna and Elsa. Anna, a girl with an extraordinary heart, embarks on an epic journey to find her sister, the magical Elsa, who is determined to remain secluded as she finally feels free to test the limits of her powers. Rugged mountain man Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, the lovable and hilarious snowman Olaf and the mystical trolls help Anna along the way in this story about love conquering fear. Audiences will get to sing along with such musical masterpieces as “Let it Go,” “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” and “Fixer Upper.”

In Disney On Ice presents Frozen, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take the audience through the magical story based in Arendelle, with special appearances by beloved Disney princesses and

WWW.MUMMYANDMEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

|

21

Early Years

ns o ti a r b e l e C For the um-to-be M

O

ne of the most special events in a person’s life is the welcoming of a new life. Baby Showers are held in all parts of the world and although there may be variations in its practice, the purpose is the same - to prepare for and celebrate the birth of a new baby.

A Baby Shower is a type of party where guests honour the Mummy-to-be and bring gifts for the baby. Usually, the Baby Shower is done before the baby arrives, however in some cases the shower is given a few weeks after the baby is born. That way the shower becomes a welcome party for the baby too.

Baby Showers are becoming increasingly popular in the UK with ‘Gender Reveal’ and ‘Couple’ baby showers included!

It is often down to close friends and family to organise a Baby Shower on behalf of the Mummy-to-be. The problem then is that the ‘organisers’ spend most of the time before, during and after the shower getting everything prepared and organised leaving little time for them to actually enjoy themselves too.

Nappytastic is a fantastic company who believe that having a baby is an extra special gift which should be celebrated and cherished. In hiring Nappytastic to run the Baby Shower for you, they take care of all the planning of the celebration; from invitations through to decorations and even to actually hosting the event to make sure the Mummy-tobe and those who are close to her have a luxurious and wonderful experience.

Nappytastic have an initial Baby Shower Consultation to discuss the individual needs and requirements of the day. Once Nappytastic have all the information they require, you simply leave the magic up to them. They will send out

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Baby Shower invitations to all guests with a theme chosen by you i.e. Pink/ Blue Umbrellaphants, Happi Tree, Gender Reveal, Shower of Love and many more.

Depending upon the Baby Shower package chosen, packages can include; Exclusive Nappytastic Nappy Cake, Baby Shower Invitations, Themed Table and Room Decorations Tableware, Table Linen & Centrepieces, Delicious Cold Buffet, Baby Shower Treats (drinks, popcorn etc), Cupcakes, Mummy-to-be Sash, Favours for each guest, Baby Shower Games & Prizes, Nappytastic Baby Shower Hostess (3 hours), Full service set up and take down.

www..nappytastic.com

Early Years

With with my sister’s due date fast approaching, I was “starting to panic about organising her a Baby Shower.

This was her first child, so it was important that she felt really special and had a truly memorable experience.

Nappytastic offer a beautiful range of Nappy Cakes and Baby Shower accessories, which is why I had been initially attracted to the company. I didn’t know that a Baby Shower service existed so when I noticed that Nappytastic offered this service too I was intrigued to find out more. The YouTube video of one of their events looked fantastic so I quickly got in touch with them to discuss my sister’s Baby Shower.

They listened to my requirements and also offered some fabulous suggestions too. They offer packages held at Barca, Castlefield in Manchester. However we are based in Liverpool so an alternative venue was sourced locally. Having everything taken care of, it was great to simply turn up on the day with my gift and be able to focus on my sister (and of course my children who attended the event too).

As we had hired a simple church hall, I wasn’t expecting too much from the decorations as I knew Nappytastic would have some work on their hands with the location. However, I was completely ‘wowed’ by how stunning the room looked and the great lengths they had gone to create a beautiful setting. The personal touches made things extra special and were keepsakes to treasure.

Our Nappytastic host was absolutely lovely and everyone was kept entertained by fun games and activities (and the prizes were brilliant!). Our Baby Shower guests included a couple of young children through to elderly Grandparents and everyone had a smile on their face the whole time.

I can wholeheartedly recommend Nappytastic, my sister was truly pampered the whole day and we all had so much fun. I was able to enjoy the occasion without stressing about organising the event and for the cost you certainly get value for money. My sister and all her guests had a wonderful day and it was lovely for my sister to have such a luxurious experience to celebrate a wonderful moment in her life.

”

Perfect Baby Shower Gifts for Mums-to-be Ed r ito ’s e!

oic

Ch

Tickets for the Baby & Toddler Show Manchester

Use cod e BTN2 4 for 1/3 off!

£13

babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

Teething Necklace £10.99

organicmama.co.uk

Bamboo Swaddle £15

bambiniandme.com

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Celebrations

& Children

celebration and if necessary take spare clothing or accessories if you feel you may need them. It is often a good idea to enquire what provisions have been made for children ahead of the event.

That way you can plan their outfit accordingly.

It is pointless putting your child in their best clothing if they are going to be taking part in messy activities, or if it means that they will be restricted from play.

T

here is an old show biz phrase “never work with children or animals” due to how unpredictable they can be. Whether you’re planning a celebration centered around a child, or an occasion when a child has a particular role to play, there is no disputing the fact that this can be a stressful experience.

However, a special occasion should be an enjoyable one and children can certainly bring a lot of enjoyment too. To avoid unnecessary stress, the best piece of advice is ‘preparation’.

American President Benjamin Franklin once said “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail” and where children are concerned, this is most definitely the case.

If you are attending an occasion with your child(ren) i.e. a wedding celebration, being prepared will enable you to enjoy the day.

Long services can make some children bored and when a child is bored they are more likely to get into mischief. To avoid this, take quiet activities that your child can participate in that will not cause disruption to the ceremony.

Books and colouring activities are great items to pop into your bag and have on-hand when you see your child getting restless.

If your child has been invited to the occasion, your host will understand if they make mild disruption. But equally, you should use your judgement and if you feel your child is making too much disruption, then you should consider taking them outside until appropriate for you both to return to the event.

Children are notoriously messy, with this in mind try to dress them appropriately for the

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Often at celebrations the food is planned for a particular time. If you can find out this information prior to the event, it may be useful in order to alleviate your child becoming agitated due to hunger. You may also wish to pack some small nibbles for your child and taking a bottle of water (particularly during Summer months) is a must!

If the celebrations are due to continue past your child’s bedtime, you may wish to consider leaving early or taking your child’s sleep attire with you for them to change into, finding somewhere quiet and comfy where they can rest.

Don’t forget your camera! Whilst you certainly shouldn’t spend all over the occasion hidden behind your phone/camera, special occasions offer fantastic photograph opportunities to capture a special moment in time. If you have dressed your child up for the occasion, early photographs are always best to ensure they are still looking how you want them to. Make sure you get in on the photos too, they are memories for your child to treasure as they grow up.

Ultimately, enjoy the celebration!

Exquisite clothing for a new generation of little Britons Made in England

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Win!

Birth & Beyond

for your child’s life and make Win an Exclusive Ceremony promises and commitments to to Celebrate the them for the future.

To enter just email Naming of Your Child!

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your name and address to: info@ mummyandmemagazine. co.uk

You may include as many supporters (godparents) as you want, involve grandparents or other special people in your child’s life, and any using Lily Mae as the number of readings and subject heading. poems. Commemorative Selecting a name is one of the certificates and a beautiful most important decisions you will keepsake copy of your ceremony ever make for your child. Their name are also included. you choose will be unique to them, giving them a sense of belonging to your family or A wonderful occasion to share with family community. and friends, naming ceremonies may ily Mae Ceremonies will write and conduct a unique naming ceremony (value £170) for the celebration of confirming your child’s name.

A Naming Ceremony is a beautiful, meaningful celebration to confirm your child’s name, and ‘officially’ introduce them to the world. It’s also an opportunity to give thanks

be held at any venue, any time and are individually tailored to your wishes.

Visit www.lilymaeceremonies.co.uk for details of this and other ceremonies.

Naming Ceremonies:

Surrounded by the love and warmth of your family and friends, we will conduct the beautiful, meaningful ceremony written uniquely to celebrate the arrival of your important little person. email visit

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for details on all our ceremonies

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C

elebrations

’s Birthdays n e r d l i h for C

I

n a recent survey of over 2,000 parents with children aged between 4 and 10 years, it was found that parents in the UK spend an average of £320.50 on a children’s birthday party. Furthermore, two thirds of UK parents throw parties for their children every year.

The survey conducted by Vouchercloud.com as part of ongoing research into the amount of money that gets spent on British children.

Initially, all respondents were asked ‘Do you typically throw a birthday party for your child every year?’ to which almost two thirds of respondents, 65%, stated ‘yes’.

All of those who stated yes were asked why, with the most common responses being ‘my child loves parties’ (88%), ‘my child asks to have a party’ (44%) and ‘it means my child gets more presents’ (38%). Similarly, all of those who stated that they didn’t throw a birthday party for their child every year were asked why, with most parents confessing that annual parties are ‘too much organisation to take on every year’ (47%) and that they ‘can’t afford the expense’ (41%).

According to the poll, 71% of respondents admit that they usually plan to cut back on costs next year but, of these, 81% confess they rarely stick to this as they want their child to have the best party of the year compared to their friends.

Chris Johnson, Head of Operations at vouchercloud.com, commented: “Children between 4 and 10 years old are far too young to appreciate the value of money, never mind the gesture that’s being given, and we’d even go so far as suggesting

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there could well be an ulterior motive of competing with other parents from the schoolyard. Children so young don’t need the best of everything – you can host a party at home, invite a few of their closest friends and put together some simple party games; they’d have just as much of a good time!” ____________________ MUMMY AND ME 3 TOP TIPS For keeping the costs down:

1. Shop around - there are plenty of

discount stores and online retailers that can help keep the cost down. Planning weeks in advance will also help spread the cost as you can purchase items gradually in the run up to the event.

2. Get creative! Save money with a ‘do-ityourself’ birthday party. If you’re creative you could make the decorations, birthday cake and other items yourself. Creative thinking can also save money i.e. could the entertainment be making crafts that the children can then take home as their party favour? Have a look on Pinterest for inspiration.

3. Join forces! Does your child have a friend with a close birthday? Why not plan a joint party to save money?

Celebrations with Children

Editor’s Picks!

Fairytale Tulle Skirt

Designed to create a dramatic silhouette, this extravagant midi length tulle skirt with a sumptuous, detachable bow will be a favourite for all little girls. Choose from Black, Dusty Pink, Silver and Caramel.

Available in sizes 4-5 years to 9-10 years £87 littlewardrobelondon.co.uk

Hape Toys Double Flavoured Birthday Wooden Cake

Pink Glitter Crowns (8 pack)

hapetoys.com

£7.99 prettylittlepartyshop.co.uk

Finn & Emma Rattle Buddy Theo the Monkey

Pitter Patter Panda Shoes

£24.50 naturalbabyshower.co.uk

£7.99 dottyfish.com

Vintage Style Pink Romper

Fresh and versatile, this vintage style overall is practical yet stylish, suitable for summer worn on its own or winter layered with woolly tights. Buttons can be re-positioned as the little one grows. £22.99 MyCandyCloud on Etsy

Herringbone Collared Waistcoat

Woven from delicate blends of silk and linen, this is a classic design – luxurious and timeless in an elegant shade of Cool Grey. £93 littlewardrobelondon.co.uk

Dotty Dungarees Pale Grey Striped Shorts

Super soft pale grey stripe denim dungaree shorts with our signature Dotty grey lining.

Available in sizes 3-6m - 4-5 years £37 dottydungarees.com

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Annabel Karmel’s Summer Salads

A healthy breastfeeding recipe for mums. It’s good to keep a salad like this in the fridge to dip into as a healthy snack any time you feel hungry.

Salad is light, refreshing and perfect for summer days.

u M r Fo

m

AVOCADO & PINE NUT SALAD INGREDIENTS 50g/2oz pine nuts 100g/4oz French beans, halved 2 plum tomatoes, halved and cut into slices or 100g/4oz cherry tomatoes 200g/7oz mixed salad leaves 1 medium ripe avocado 2 hard boiled eggs, each cut into 6 wedges 100g / 4oz tinned sweetcorn

Dressing 2 tbsp light olive oil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tsp caster sugar 1/2 tbsp soy sauce salt and freshly ground black pepper

METHOD Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry frying pan until

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lightly golden.

Blanch the beans in boiling lightly salted water for 3-4 minutes or until just tender.

Make the dressing by whisking together the oil, vinegar, caster sugar and soy sauce and season to taste.

Stir in the blanched beans and the tomatoes and sweetcorn.

Arrange the salad leaves in a dish, cut the avocado in half, remove the stone and skin, cut into thin slices and arrange on top of the salad leaves with the eggs.

Spoon over the tomatoes, beans and dressing, and finish by scattering over the pine IDEAL FOR nuts.

BREAST

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FEEDING MUMS

For Bab y POPEYE PASTA INGREDIENTS 200g fresh spinach, washed or 100g frozen spinach 30g Annabel Karmel's Mini Pasta Shells 15g butter 2 tbsp milk 2 tbsp cream cheese 4 tbsp parmesan cheese, grated

METHOD Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions.

Carefully wash the spinach and cook with just the water clinging to its leaves in a saucepan or microwave over a low heat until tender.

CHERRY TOMATO & MOZZARELLA SALAD INGREDIENTS

This is a really tasty baby pasta recipe to make if you want to introduce your baby to spinach. Mixing tiny baby pasta shapes into your baby’s food is a good way to add texture. Try using Annabel Karmel Organic Pasta Shells.

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small frying pan and sauté the cooked spinach.

4 tbsp olive oil 1 large red onion, sliced 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 tsp caster sugar 1 shallot, finely chopped 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped 3 tbsp sweet balsamic vinegar 250g fine green beans 300g cherry IDEAL FOR tomatoes, halved or quartered if large LUNCH 50g mixed salad leaves BOXES

Mix together the dressing ingredients, and pour over the salad before serving

Dressing

METHOD

Combine the spinach with the milk and cheeses and chop finely in a food processor.

IDEAL FOR Mix with the cooked pasta. BABY 9-12 MONTHS My children love this salad with chicken, crunchy green beans and cherry tomatoes.

The caramelised red onion and balsamic vinegar adds a delicious flavour. It’s also good for lunchboxes.

unc l r Fo

Roast in the oven for 10 minutes, until golden and crisp. Leave to cool, then add to the salad.

4 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp soy sauce 1 ½ tsp caster sugar

Gently press out the excess water. If using frozen spinach, cook according to the packet instructions.

INGREDIENTS

3 little gem lettuces, shredded 125g mini Mozzarella balls (or 1 ball of Mozzarella, cubed) 175g sweet cherry tomatoes, halved 2 slices thick-sliced white bread, cubed salt and pepper 2 tbsp olive oil

Spread out the bread cubes on a baking sheet, season and drizzle over the oil.

Preheat the oven to 220C / 430F. Arrange the lettuce, Mozzarella and tomatoes in a bowl.

Fo

es box

ots T r

IDEAL FOR KIDS 1-4 YEARS

CHICKEN SALAD WITH FRENCH BEANS

h

and mix together and then add the remaining oil.

METHOD Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a frying pan. Add the onion and garlic and fry until soft. Add the sugar and stir until lightly browned.

Spoon into a bowl.

Add the shallot, chicken, basil and balsamic vinegar. Season

Steam the beans or cool in boiling salted water for 4 minutes until just cooked. Drain and refresh in cold water and slice in half.

Add the beans and tomatoes to the cooked onions and chicken.

Lightly toss together and season.

Arrange the salad leaves on a plate. Spoon the chicken salad over and gently mix together.

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Daddy and Me

WRITTEN BY REGULAR COLUMNIST NEIL SINCLAIR A.K.A

MISSION ADVENTURE GET ACTIVE WITH YOUR KIDS Need to keep the kids active this summer? No problem for Commando Dad. Former commando and father-ofthree Neil Sinclair wants to instill a love of activity in our kids. New book ‘Commando Dad: Mission Adventure’ is a follow-up to bestselling Commando Dad: Basic Training, read by HRH Prince William and Andy Murray.

Discover the tried-and-tested Commando Dad approach to parenting and teach your young troopers to be the best they can be!

Y

ou need to look lively, lads.

Remember what it felt like to be a child, when you anticipated adventure around every corner? The excitement you felt when you woke up to find snow had fallen overnight?

Or discovered an empty swing? The accomplishment of building a den? What happened? You grew up.

And that is what is happening to your own little troopers. Right now. In fact, less than 7,000 days from birth, they’ll be 18 and making their own way in the world.

Which brings me to the first rule of Mission Adventure: Acting Grown-Up Is Not Appropriate In All Situations.

Obviously, you need to be a responsible adult when it comes to the safety, health and well-being of both yourself and your unit.

And to live in the modern world you will have to be grown-up in virtually all situations. But not every situation. I am calling upon you to recapture your inner adventurer. Because if you can teach your troopers that life can be full of fun and adventure - even as an adult - they you’ll not only be entertaining them while building a whole host of important skills such as communication, creativity, cooperation and teamwork, but also giving them the means to a more fulfilling future.

Because play and adventure isn’t just for troopers - it’s a key stress reliever and bonding activity for adults too.

When I was a commando in Operation

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Desert Storm my buddy and I came under sniper fire at a water point. Luckily, we were unharmed. We didn’t go back to camp and wallow about what could have happened we went back to be the butt of all the jokes about coming under fire from the worst shot in Iraq. In doing so, we weer able to laugh about it - rid ourselves of the stress and anxiety and get up the next day and do our jobs effectively.

If all of the above weren’t enough of a reason, then consider this: you are setting the stage for the next generation of Commando Dads (and Mums).

Now when I say ‘adventure’ I don’t mean you have to climb the Eiger (I have. I wouldn’t recommend it as a first activity). Adventure doesn’t necessarily require spending money (most of the activities in my new book ‘Commando Dad: Mission Adventure - Get Active With Your Kids’ cost nothing but time) or having special equipment. Adventure can be found in the everyday. You can make the walk to school a spy mission or Follow My Leader. And don’t forget that childhood presents a lot of opportunities for your troopers to do things for the first time, which can be an adventure in itself: riding a bike, swimming, watching live sport (even better if their Commando Dad is taking part!) or live music, paddling in the sea or catching a train, to name but a few.

But you can also create more traditional adventure, from building a den, to making a fire, to exploring rock pools. These adventures can help your troopers to experience risk

(albeit in a safe environment with you in charge) and in so doing to build their selfconfidence and independence. But first: You Need To Fill Your Adventure Armoury And my new book ‘Commando Dad: Mission Adventure - Get Active with your Kids’ can help. It’s filled with good ideas and tips and tricks about how to entertain and adventure with your troopers. I’ve tested them in the field with my own three, and also as a teacher and childminder. They were a forgiving audience, and your troopers will be too. In fact, when it comes to having ‘successful’ adventures, the only thing you need to remember is to make sure you’re engaged and doing it with them, and that your focus stays on the task in hand. You are their hero. If you engage with them, you will enhance the most everyday tasks into amazing adventures. You cannot fail.

Now, I live in the same busy world as you and know how hard it can be to block out all distractions, but I promise you that if you can carve out real time to be with your troopers it will pay dividends, because: The Most Effective Tool In Your Adventure Armoury Is Your Undivided Attention

That’s not to say there won’t be the inevitable setbacks and occasional failures with your adventures, of course - from not being able to control the weather, to not having what you need when you need it, and everything in between. But these will provide you with a golden opportunity to show your troopers how to deal with disappointment. They need to know that failure is a key element of success at any endeavour - imagine if the first time they had fallen over they decided to abandon learning to walk! Encourage and help them with a challenging task, but don’t do it for them. Let them experience the challenge and how sweet it feels to finally conquer something that was once too difficult. It will help them build resilience, a very valuable skill for them to carry into adulthood.

The fact is, you only have a short time with your troopers - you owe it to both of you to make as many of those days as adventurous and fun as possible. Think of this as an opportunity to relive your own childhood (or in some cases, create the one you wish you’d had). Only this time it will be better, because you are in charge.

Let the adventure begin!

The return of i-Spy books! i-Spy, the iconic spotting guides, are to be relaunched, complete with fully updated images and information ensuring they are as relevant to today’s world as they always have been.

There are currently over fifty i-Spy books, including i-Spy Nature, On a road trip, Cars and At the Seaside. Relaunched in time for the summer holidays, i-Spy books are co published by Collins and Michelin and are available from 1st July 2016 at £2.99

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Free goody bag for every mum-to-be and new mum

EventCity Manchester 7-9 October O 150 VER BRA TOP NDS

FREEING K PAR ES PRIC ON BEST NTEED , RA IRS GUA SHCHA SEATS & PU , CAR E GIES ITUR BUG FURN

Amazing shopping and expert advice for new and expectant parents to give their baby the best start

Save 1/3 on tickets, quote BTN24 at babyandtoddlershow.co.uk Expert Advice Workshops | Baby First Aid Seminars | Baby Carrier Trial Baby Feeding Area | Baby Changing Area Offer closes 6 October. Standard adult ticket price £12. Booking fees apply. Show content subject to change.