Baby Buzz Media December 2020

Quarterly Online Publication

baby buzz

www.babybuzzmedia.com

December 2020

news & reviews

FEATURES

Top tips and advice from health professionals, food and recipes, meet the Parents In Business who’ve created fabulous products for parents and parents-to-be, Fashion Guides, Gift Guides and Amazing Competitions

PARENTS IN BUSINESS

Meet the fabulous parents who have set up their own businesses and what they’ve learned along the way

REVIEWS

Check out all the product reviews to see what could work for you

FASHION GUIDES

Latest fashion trends for all the family

CHRISTMAS GUIDES

Are you prepared for Christmas? Check out our Christmas guides to give you some great ideas whether for someone else or yourself!

ADVENT CALENDARS 2020

Checkout the fantastic collection of Advent Calendars this year ranging from chocolate, vegan, beauty, health concious and absolute luxury!

THE CHRISTMAS ADVENT CALENDAR GIVEAWAY

25 days of fabulous prizes to be given away every day from the 1st December. See Terms and Conditions for entry!

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BOUNCER BLISS Ergonomic baby bouncer with natural rocking

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EDITORS PAGE Can you believe it’s almost Christmas!

This year seems to have flown past us, with so many challenges already faced and more challenges to come. How have you and your families got through all the changes we’ve had to face since government lockdowns, school and work closures, furlough even redundancies? I hope you are all doing ok.

This month sees the launch of Baby Buzz Media, rebranded from Baby Buzz Magazine which I stopped to focus on my own family back in 2015. So much has changed with regards to advice, products, new releases, health - generally everything - so I’m extremely excited to be back on board! This time we have done things a little differently and we now have a brand new Blog Website which will feature regular features, competitions and all the useful things parents will need to help them along the journey of parenthood. We also have an Instagram Account - so make sure to sign up - to keep you upto-date with all the latest news, reviews and competitions.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not always those of the publishers. Neither the publisher nor any other person associated with the production and publication of this magazine makes any guarantee, warranties or claims as to the accuracy of any of the contents of this magazine. We include and use products and services that we believe to be of a reputable standard but we advise readers to make their own judgements.

The publishers and magazine will not be held accountable and or responsible for any loss caused by errors, loss or negligence resulting from Baby Buzz Media Limited. We do not accept responsibility for any unsolicited material or photographs published. Terms and Conditions for our competitions can be found on our website at the time of being published. No section of this magazine is authorised for use or reproduction in any form without the prior consent of the editor.

Picture Credits:

How prepared are you - or have you even thought about Christmas shopping yet? This year has certainly been an eyeopener and shopping this year is likely to be very different than it ever has been (unless you’re like me, who loves internet shopping and thrives to get the best deals!) If you haven’t started yet, don’t worry - we have an amazing gift guide for all the family. We’ve also made sure to cater for every budget, from the most luxurious to the best budgets can afford.

We have some great offers in this issue with Future-Life offering free Wills to all parents with children under the age of 10! See Page 27 for full terms and conditions. We also have features from health and wellbeing specialists Dr Laura Lenihan, Maternity Nurse Consultant Matilde and Lactation Consultant Kitty Hackel plus many more. We hope you enjoy and find all of the information useful.

We have a fabulous issue lined up for our readers this month, which includes our spectacular Advent Calendar Bumper Giveaway - 25 days with 25 prizes that will be drawn every day in the run up to Christmas. We have toys, games, beauty products, electricals, clothing, furniture items as well as essential baby equipment to giveaway to lucky readers.

I have to say a huge thank you to all the companies who generously gave me the prize donations for the Advent Calendar this year, without them it just wouldn’t be possible.

Entry Requirements - Competitions All you have to do is either visit our Website: www.babybuzzmedia.com (also brand new this year) enter via Instagram: www.instagram.com/babybuzzmedia or email us: babybuzzmedia@gmail. com for your chance to win. Each prize will be drawn at midnight and winners will be notifed via email and social media the following day. Some of the prizes will be sent directly from the companies whilst others will be posted out by me. Considering the current circumstances, please don’t worry if there is a slight delay in receiving your prizes.

If you would like me to feature a specific topic, just send me an email and I will do my best to research the information for you.

All that is left to say is “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year” and we’ll see you in 2021!

Front Page Photography Credits: Jonathan Stockton Photography Content Photo Credits: Photo 30406807 © Len44ik | Dreamstime.com Illustration 177831123 © Kseniia Shtereb | Dreamstime.com Illustration 125768114 © Hilchtime | Dreamstime.com Illustration 164519754 © Natali Myasnikova | Dreamstime.com Gift Guide Image: Helen - Owner of Cuddledry

Nickie Mum & Editor 3

£12.50 each 24 Christmas sculptures cast in chocolate.

Kids Advent CalendarMilk Chocolate - £8

3 NEW Velvetised Cream Liqueurs From £22

Kids Advent Calendar Vegan / Free From - £8

The Classic Christmas Sleekster - £22.95

The Everything Drinking Chocolate Selection – Single-Serves £14 10 single-serves. 10 flavours. Comforting and tongue- tingling milk, white, dark and caramel-milk recipes from our ever-expanding library of single-serves. Designed for use in the Velvetiser. No mess. No fuss. The ‘just right’ serving size of drinking chocolate.

Flavours Vanilla,-Salted Caramel, Hazelnut Praline, Orange, Classic 70%, Mint, Ginger, Chilli, Dark For silky-smooth results, pair with our in-home drinking chocolate system, the Velvetiser.

Designed by Hotel Chocolat, engineered by Dualit. Create your new drinking chocolate ritual.

The Grand Advent Calendar - £68

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com

HEALTH & WELLBEING Pages 30 - 31

Five Key Steps to Getting Breastfeeding Off to the Best Start - with Lactation Consultant Kitty Hackel

Page 44

Five Top Reasons your child’s skin is itchy

Page 46 C-Section - A Personal Recovery - by GP Dr Laura Lenihan Page 49

Strategies to support your baby overcome reflux by Maternity Consultant Mathilde from Matilde Maternity.com

Page 50

Everything you need to know about pregnancy stretch marks!

Page 80

The Viewing Precipice - Giraffe Insights

Page 66

Zest Insurance - Know whats best for you

TRAVEL Pages 78 - 79 Pages 80 - 81 Pages 82 - 83

At One with Nature - South Africa Hyatt Regency - London Courmayeur - Italy

SHOPPING Page 13

Christmas Gift Guide 2020

Pages 14 - 15

Advent Calendars for 2020 - What will you choose?

Pages 16 - 17

Toys, Games & Accessories - Gift Ideas for all the family!

Pages 24 - 25

Gift Ideas for Mum & Dad

Page 31 Breastfeeding Essentials - The Baby Buzz Shopping Guide Page 37

Bibetta - Fabulous products for babies and children!

Page 42

CONTENTS PAGE FEATURES Page 6

Parents in Business

Page 12

New pushchair launch by British designed ‘Ark’ brand

Page 27

Future Wills - Five Reasons Why Parents need to make a will! - Plus claim your free will - available for parents with children under 10!

Page 28

New childrenswear brand ‘Breech’ launches new activewear range for those who have active outdoorsy kids!

Page 29

Stay Active, Stay Safe with FittaMamma

Page 32

Leading Irish Childare Operator “Tigers Childcare” launces in the UK

Page 43

Bliss - Parents restricted from seeing their sick babies due to Covid-19 measures!

Page 45

Introducing the Little Organics Skincare Range

Page 48

IckleBubba - Aston Rose marks a truly golden first year!

Page 53

Love and Comfort with the Baby Carrier Move

Page 58

Baby Dior unveils the 1st Stroller!

Pages 67 - 73 CHRISTMAS ADVENT CALENDAR GIVEAWAY REVIEWS Page 54 - 58

Check out the fabulous products we’ve reviewed this month!

FOOD & RECIPES

Red Castle introduces the Fabulous Fox Print Cocoonababy & BabyNoMade blanket

Pages 34 - 34

Ellas Kitchen launches “Weanursery” - a helpful website for Parents and weaning their babies!

Page 47

C-Section - The Baby Buzz Shopping Guide

Page 36

Ellas Kitchen - Fun recipes for the family

Page 52

The Ultimate Gifts for New Parents from BabyBJorn

Page 38

Fruit Bowl - Enjoy some fruity fun this Christmas!

Page 52

PURA - Eco Friendly Essentials !

Page 39

Cook with your kids with award winning baker Ruth Macintyre of Ruth’s Little Kitchen

Pages 40 - 41

Festive Food & Beverages ideas for Christmas

LIFESTYLE Page 13

Kidstart - How to save money this Christmas

Pages 59 - 64

Fashion Guides - Polarn O’Pyret, Childsplay Clothing, Children’s Fashion Boutique, Baby Dior, Seraphine, Very

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PARENTS IN BUSINESS The Parents & Business section focuses on exactly that, being a parent and running a business! There are so many businesses that are run by people who juggle parenting with work every day and so each month we sing their praises and give them a great big mention.

If you’d like for your business to be featured in our Parents in Business section, please contact me on: nickie@babybuzzmagazine.co.uk

Who is behind the Product?

Sofie Hepworth, of Tunbridge Wells, Mum of two and interior stylist.

How did the company get started?

by Sofie has been a few years in the making, we started life under a different business name in 2017. It was Sofie’s love of interior design and her frustrations at not being able to find toys and home decor products for her babies that were both functional AND stylish that inspired her to create her own brand.

“It started with a list on a scrap of paper…

I

was a tired new Mum with a passion for interiors, I sat surrounded by plastic baby products that were functional but oh so lacking in style. I searched high and low for products that would be fun for my baby but kinder to the planet AND would complement the contemporary home I had so lovingly designed. So whilst feeding my new baby, on a scrap of paper I set about writing a list of all the things that I could only dare to dream existed. And in that moment ‘by Sofie’ was born. The Little Hoppa is the first product I wrote on ‘The list’, it took a long time to turn the seed of an idea into a real-life product. The list is still something we come back to each and every day, it’s got a little longer now too! We are working through it one item at a time.”

What is the company about?

All that we do is inspired by Sofie’s love of home and her unshakable belief that we should never have to choose between functionality and aesthetics in our homes. It is this belief, coupled with Sofie’s unique sense of style, that goes into everything by Sofie. We have a common purpose: to design a happier life. That is the start point for all that we do, be it a new product, an interior design project, or a piece of content to share with our followers.

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We ask ourselves these simple questions: ● Does it make life easier or give us the gift of ● Is it’s beauty a thing to behold? ● Does it offer us pleasure or enjoyment? ● Will it still be used, relevant and loved in sev ● Does it contribute to a kinder, better future f ● Will it make us smile?

And just like the perfect meal, the balance of t when we do, oh WOW, that’s when the magic o and joy.

What do you hope to achieve?

We hope to grow by Sofie into a recognisable babies but offering home decor and lifestyle pr

What has been the highlight of starting your o It has to be recently winning the Red Dot Be companies such as Apple, Stokke and Porsche in the world of product design. So to see our concept for childhood) as an unknown brand, i it’s taken to create our first product line, it’s va couldn’t be prouder.

What has been the most difficult aspect of sta The juggling act. When you are starting up ther wear so many hats...product designer, social m you name it, I’ve done it. Then of course you life on top too, you are always very thinly spre holidays and a clear job description is not for think ‘ But is it going to be worth it though?’. because the first few years can be very testing back though ;-)

PARENTS IN BUSINESS

time?

veral years’ time? for our planet and children?

these ingredients is tricky to get just right, but of happy design fills our homes with sunshine

e and loved family lifestyle brand, not just for roducts for the whole family.

own company? est-of-the-Best award. This is an award that e have won in the past, it’s a really big deal product winning the whole category (design is really really special especially after the work alidation that our design is world class and we

arting your own company? re’s never enough money or enough time, you media manager, accountant, customer service, u have to juggle family, friends and a normal ead. Walking away from a steady salary, paid everyone, there are certainly days when you . You have to be a strong person emotionally g on all aspects of your life! I could never go

What would your advice be to any parent wanting to start up their own?

Find a niche. As a small business/ startup having a niche is really important, offering something that people can’t find elsewhere makes it much easier for people to find you in the saturated online world. Plus, you won’t need to compete on price with large companies who will always be able to produce products and/or services cheaper than you can. Large companies are usually less interested in niche corners of the market as they don’t always offer the volume and/or margin that interests them, this can be perfect for a small nimble start up who can quickly make a name for themselves, you don’t want to be selling on price!

Don’t wait till you have all the answers … you will never get started. Starting in business takes courage, one day you just have to make the decision to do it! If you wait until the right time, or perhaps a time when you think you have all the answers and you feel more ready (financially, emotionally, whatever it is), chances are you will never ever take the leap. Every day is a school day for me even now, that’s how it’s supposed to be!

For more information, please visit:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threeboysandapinkbath/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bysofieofficial https://bysofieofficial.com 7

PARENTS IN BUSINESS Who is behind the Product?

Me, Susie Stubbs, I launched Totter + Tumble in 2018 after a decade of teaching in primary schools and becoming a mum. I have a small dedicated team of employees, freelancers, and contractors who now help me, but I am very much involved in every part of the business!

How did the company get started?

Out of sheer frustration! Shortly after welcoming our second child, we did some work to our kitchen to make it as family-friendly as possible. We put so much into creating this flexible space that we could all use. We spent weekends at tile shops, selecting grout, painting colour samples on the walls and agonising over kitchen cabinets. So, when we moved in and had to put down the jigsaw playmat we had already, I nearly cried. I just wanted a playmat of better quality, that would last longer and provide better comfort. Ideally just one piece that was simple to wipe away crumbs and spillages, and something neutral that would blend in rather than stand out.

And it didn’t exist!

What is the company about?

Totter + Tumble is all about the idea that design and aesthetics can be combined in family interiors. We are very good at adult interiors (just look at the incredible interior publications the UK produces) and we are great at kids bedroom interiors too. But when it comes to the family space, that flexible meet in the middle living and kitchen area, there is little that meets the needs of everyone. I once had a chat with a dad at the local playground, and he told me how he avoided the living room when he came home from work as he felt their garish jigsaw playmat gave him a headache. It’s the same at the other end of the spectrum where parents and children can’t relax because of an impractical play space.

What has been the highlight of starting your own company?

Totter + Tumblers! In the last 2 years, Totter + Tumble playmats have joined around 30,000 families, which is far more than I ever anticipated. A tag on social media, a review, or a quick message or email to let me know they love their play mat, gives me a jolt of happiness as much today as it did on the first day. We were able to start our Play Matters Donations campaign, where we donate playmats to NHS hospitals, children’s hospices, refuges and charities quite soon after launching, and that brings us immense satisfaction.

What has been the most difficult aspect of starting your own company?

What’s been key to success, but has been the hardest aspect for me personally, is the emotional attachment that I have to the business. I spent a year researching and tracking down my incredible manufacturer, as I wasn’t going to launch compromising on anything! Because I believe wholeheartedly in our play mats and what we stand for, I find myself thinking about it non-stop. It’s my goal to take brain breaks from it – which is a work in progress but having some excellent people on the Totter + Tumble team really helps me.

What would your advice be to any parent wanting to start up their own?

Product (or service) is king. Get that right first and don’t compromise on your brand values.

For more information, please visit:

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/totterandtumble/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/totterandtumble Website:Totter and Tumble

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What is the company about?

Our company is about bringing products that we’ve tried and tested with mums first hand, as well as picking out items we like to use with our kids - we even had a second son whilst growing our business so we got to see just how the pregnancy / new mum space constantly changes. There are so many exciting products to help make mum’s lives easier or more fun for both parents & baby, and we’d like to be part of that special experience.

Our Buggy Clips are now our best seller! We have 3 versions and have won several awards in the last two years with MadeForMums, LovedByParents, and this year we are short-listed for a Mother&Baby Award!

Who is behind the Product?

I’m Jo, and I started our online company around 6 years ago, when my eldest son was nearly 2 years old. As a new mum all I had been doing was buying every toy, gadget or accessory on my phone in the wee hours to help my son feed / eat / sleep (he was a terrible sleeper!). I’d already left my job in the City so I started looking at what products both myself and other mums might find super useful too.

What do you hope to achieve?

We hope that Baby Uma will become a household name, and that we become known for our simple yet functional buggy accessories and baby items that are stylish yet super functional. It’s great to already be out and about with our kids in the park and see parents using our products with their buggies & prams, it’s a very satisfying feeling.

PARENTS IN BUSINESS What has been the highlight of starting your own company?

Getting the business to a point where my Husband was then able to leave his job and join me in running it too. The work/life balance with small children is so much better, and of course being our own boss and working toward our own work goals which ultimately feed into our family goals.

Winning coveted baby awards that I would look to for recognition when I was a new mum was just an amazing feeling. I attended the Mother&Baby Awards 2020 solo last year and it was such a starstudded fun night, surrounded by awesome baby brands and really friendly, supportive people. We didn’t win, but I felt like I needed pinching in any case!

What has been the most difficult aspect of starting your own company?

Well, with your own business you really do get out what you put in, it’s a real lesson in determination and keeping positive when the highs can be high and the lows, low - when like in any business, things don’t always go as planned.

Covid earlier this year for example really hit us but we’re slowly bouncing back and we hope to ride the wave of a predicted baby boom in 2021!

What would your advice be to any parent wanting to start up their own?

Go for it, even if that means starting slowly alongside your regular job first, then building it up slowly as you find your feet, and your confidence. Always ask for help if you need it, you’d be surprised how much people are willing to help and who’ve been in the same or similar position, so it’s always great to network.

How did the company get started?

I actually found an online course that helped me to source from overseas and look out for products that weren’t available already, or if they were, they were poorly done. I worked late into the night and went live with our first product 4 months later – a car sunshade with unique giraffe design! It was well received, particularly with Amazon online customers, and we were copied very soon after.

I then discovered Buggy Clips as I was still using my pram with my son, and wanted my fellow mums to benefit from them too. My husband always joked that I was a ‘what if’ type of mum, the one that carries the kitchen sink out with her every day, and these clips were great for that!

Most of all, enjoy the experience!

For more information, please visit:

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/lovebabyuma/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/lovebabyuma Website:Baby Uma 9

PARENTS IN BUSINESS

What is the company about?

I created Etta Loves to turn everyday essentials into sensory sensations, by using the science of what babies can and can’t see to create clever and stunning patterns. The result is that babies are mesmerised and supported in their visual and cognitive development, whilst parents benefit from a priceless moment of calm.

What do you hope to achieve?

My hope is to give parents the confidence and ease of adding sensory play into their infant’s day, and in turn make the world an even more magical place for them. I hope for my products to be a benefit for both parents and baby’s.

Who is behind the Product?

Jen Fuller, a mum of 2 gorgeous girls Etta and Uma. How did the company get started?

Back in 2016 I was sitting on my sofa with a heap of mucky muslins by my side and noticed that then 4-week old little Etta was staring at my jumper. It was the first thing I’d noticed her actively trying to focus on and unsurprisingly it was a simple black and white pattern. After a month of trying to rotate black and white clothing to capture her attention in this way (which got both difficult and boring) this got me thinking; why aren’t the most seen items by babies designed to stimulate them and mesmerise them? And why wouldn’t you use medical knowledge of babies’ visual development to make them the best that they could be at doing this? So the thought became a business idea and 6 months later Etta Loves was launched.

What has been the highlight of starting your own company?

Hearing how our products are helping new parents through the many reviews we receive each day, sometimes they’re even written from the baby’s point of view, which make me smile.

What has been the most difficult aspect of starting your own company?

I’d say having to be the jack of all trades, needing to understand every element of running a business and the continuous evolution whilst you grow – which is also exciting though.

What would your advice be to any parent wanting to start up their own?

• Try and start it alongside your current job if you can – don’t quit too soon so you don’t have the financial pressure as well as the pressure of learning to run a business.

• I stayed in my job for 2 and half years whilst I set up Etta Loves and when the business started to need more and more of my time I knew it was the right timing to turn my attention to Etta Loves full time.

• Make sure you are offering something unique as it is an exhausting journey so you have to have a USP and be sure that the world needs and will want what you’re offering.

For more information, please visit:

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ettaloves Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ettaloves/ Website:Etta Loves 10

PARENTS IN BUSINESS

Who is behind the Product?

My 2 children Luca and Rosa, who represent the branding of the two little ducks.

How did the company get started?

I saw a gap in the market for full matching sleepwear and bedding sets for children and babies when my second child was born whilst looking for them myself. I then decided to launch my own range as I felt there would be a real demand for them and other Mum’s would love them as much as I do and it spiralled from there!

What is the company about?

Playful and colourful matching bedding and sleepwear sets as well as loungewear for children and Mum’s that makes bedtime and relaxing around the home so much more fun! Our clothing is proudly designed in England using organic, ethically sourced, sustainable fabrics with a healthy dose of Italian style.

What do you hope to achieve?

What has been the highlight of starting your own company? I have loved seeing it all come together at the end of such a long process, and the pride I have for my brand that I have put so much hard work and love in to. It has been so wonderful to hear such wonderful feedback from so many other children and families that they really love the products and designs too.

What has been the most difficult aspect of starting your own company?

Launching the brand in the middle of a pandemic has certainly been a real challenge in itself and I had never anticipated his coming when I started the ball rolling on my new brand last year. However, if I can launch a business in the middle of these challenging times and still be a success, I know I have really smashed it!

What would your advice be to any parent wanting to start up their own?

To follow your dreams. As long as you are prepared to work hard and sacrifice some of your own down time to work on your business around your family, you can do it.

For more information, please visit:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucaandrosalondon/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/LucaandRosa Website:LucaandRosa 11

A PUSHCHAIR DESIGNED BY PARENTS WHO TRULY KNOW THE LITTLE THINGS MATTER

British designed ARK offers a striking new pushchair that delivers on style, function, innovation and so much more.

Introducing Ark, a thoughtfully designed 3 in 1 travel system, unlike anything else currently on the market. With its unique breathable carrycot, genius shock absorbing wheels, one handed fold, and unbelievable compact design, Ark has been engineered to perfection. Designed and engineered in the UK, Ark supports families in towns, countryside or even on the beach, from birth to preschool age.

Boasting a truly innovative carrycot, Ark promises pure comfort when lying flat, both through the day and overnight.

A revolutionary dual ventilation system ensures air freely circulates to keep

the temperature regulated and features such as a real wool layer in the mattress and a handy temperature gauge in the carrycot give parents peace of mind at every turn of the wheel!

Thoughtfully designed even down to the smallest details, Ark’s promise is to only use natural, chemical-free and comfortable fabrics next to baby’s delicate skin to create the safest environment for little ones, whatever journey they’re on.

This pushchair seriously packs a punch, whilst being so easy to use and super compact! Remarkably the one-handed fold mechanism sees this giant of a pushchair in terms of function and features, fold down small enough to fit in a Mini!

Bursting with extras, parents will also love the 5-point harness, extendable hood with 50+UPF sunshade, built-in rain cover that is cleverly stored away in the hood, and a removable (and more importantly washable) cotton seat liner. The pushchair sits in 3 configurations (carry cot, parent facing and world facing) and has 3 recline positions, as well as a height adjustable handle that suits even the tallest parents! Available in classic

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black and grey, teal, mustard and Coral, the Ark not only has a giant waterproof basket with Disaster pouch included it has toy loops off the canopy to ensure little one’s favourite toy stays close at hand. It is clear this product has been designed by parents.

Talking about Ark’s entrance onto the market, Selina Russell, founder of Cheeky Rascals, the newly appointed distributor said: “We knew when we first saw this pushchair it was a design without compromise. No feature has been spared with the Ark and the wheels are a giveaway that this travel system has been engineered to perfection! We have no doubt parents will be thrilled with the unrivalled functionally and style.”

With accessories including a grab and go bag, a sun shading Bliss Canopy, the Snuggle; to keep baby toasty warm, a super comfy and waterproof mattress protector, car seat adapters and even an exclusive Ark Buggyboard, this pushchair ticks every single box. RRP: £899

https://www.arkbeststart.com/

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 2020 13

2020 ADVENT

The market is rife with so many different types of Advent Calendars, that we decided to take a closer look at whats cur / dairy free to beauty and fashion and even the healthier option. We ‘ve looked a tht more affordable to the most Price: £340 From: Dior (and seledcted retailers) Celebrate the holiday season at the heart of 30 Avenue Montaigne, where Dior opens the doors to the Atelier des Reves and reveals its magic beneath a starry sky. Artist and illustrator Safia Ouares has created an Advent Calendar like an enchanted night with dancing stars and gold dust. Behind each of the 24 calendar doors lies a Dior surprise to count down the days of December steepd in the magical spirit of Dior.

Price: £75.00 From: LUSH If you missed out on the Lush Advent Calendar - never fear there is still the fabulous option to countdown Christmas with the 12 Days of Christmas - comprising of bath, shower, and body products, including Celebrate body milk - a 2020 Christmas gift exclusive!

Price: £18 to £200 (Featured £135) From: Fortnum & Mason The most incredible selection of advent calendars for both children and adults - Make every day of December a joy-filled occasion with our exceptionally festive Christmas Wooden House Advent Calendar.

Behind every small numbered door you will find an array of sweet delicacies and treats galore, including Fortnum’s milk chocolate coins, foiled milk chocolate Santa’s and snowmen, foiled milk chocolate balls, and natural fruit pectin jellies.

Price: £55 From: PLAYinCHOC

This is plastic free, allergen free, sustainable and each drawer has a fun puzzle toy to build, mini choc and fun fact card! The sleeve then turns into a playmat for the 24 little puzzle toys.

Alternatively you could opt for the Festive Gift Set which is just adorable - check out our review section which features this one!

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CALENDARS

rrently on offer. There are some fabulous options now available ranging from milk, white and dark chocolate to vegan luxurious we could find. Let us know what you think by visiting our Instagram page and voting for your favourite!

Price: From £3.99 From: Moo Free Chocolates This year Moo Free developed the most amazing, dairy-free white chocolate. This fun packed freefrom Advent Calendar is great for kids or adults alike. With new shapes behind the doors there will be a new surprise everyday, so don’t go peeping before you should!

Price: From 17.90 to £109.90 (small to extra large which includes a Limited Edition Bottle) From: Waterdrop A fabulous healthy way to countdown to Christmas with this invigorating Advent Calendar.

Drinking two liters a day is vital as breathing air. We need both to function. Good hydration increases energy and alertness.

So, drink more and stay hydrated.

It’s the best gift for your body.

Price: £24.99 From: Playmobil A great alternative for the littlest members of the family is this traditional holiday-themed Advent calendar for the littlest ones, with lots of forest animals and Santa Claus in a reindeer sleigh.

Price: £8 From: Candy Kittens This one-of-a-kind advent tree comes flat-packed with simple components and straightforward instructions.

Build time 5 mins. Box contains all components required to craft your tree with 4 x 48g bags of Wild Strawberry, Sour Watermelon, Tropical Mango and Blueberry Bliss sweets (at least 1 sweet per day!)

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Price: £24.99 From: LEGO Celebrate Christmas in the Wizarding World with this magical LEGO® Harry Potter™ Advent Calendar (75981).

Behind each of the 24 doors is a different toy or figure from the Harry Potter series. As the big day gets closer, kids can recreate Hogwarts™ holiday scenes – including the amazing Yule Ball!

Price: £5 From: Tesco, Sainsburys, Waitrose, Amazon and NOMO The number one free-from chocolate brand, NOMO is ready to get the festivities started with two very exciting products launching this Christmas - an Advent Calendar and box of Caramel Filled Choc Drops!

The collection are completely vegan and free from dairy, gluten, egg and nuts.

TOYS, GAMES &

CELEBRATING 65 YEARS OF MIFF 1

© Mercis bv

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1. Miffy - Wooden Farm Blocks - £13.99 www.fivelittlediamonds.co.uk 2. Miffy - Lion First Light - £84.99 www.miffyshop.co.uk 3. Miffy - Soft Toy - £14.99 www.waterstones.com 4. Miffy Frill Tee (Ages 3 months - 6 yrs) £12 www.next.co.uk 5. Miffy - 100% Recycled Teddy - £21.99 www.miffyshop.co.uk 6 Miffy - Stripes Cuddle Soft Toy – £12.99 www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk 7. Melissa & Doug - Giraffe – £84.99 (Other animals available) John Lewis, Amazon, Argos, Very 8. Melissa & Doug - Slice & Stack Sandwich Counter - £39.99 Argos, Very, Amazon

9. Melissa & Doug - Take-Along Tool Kit - £11.99 Next, Dobbies, Amazon 10. Melissa & Doug - Get Well First Aid Play Set - £24.99 Argos, Very, Amazon 11. Melissa & Doug - Wooden Cutting Fruit - £14.99 Argos, Very, Amazon, Next 12. Molang - Supersoft XXL Toy - £105 Amazon 13. Molang - Piu Piu Supersoft Toys available in different colours and animals - £16.99 Amazon 14. Molang - Multi-pack Figure - £6.99 Amazon 15. Molang - Girls Hoodie (Ages 2 - 5 yrs) - £11.99 Amazon

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1. Coffee Cup Wooden Toy Kitchen - £150 2. Reindeer Apron - £18.99 3. Wooden Fox Walker - £50 4. First Class Toy Post Office - £65 5. Mr Fox Carry Caddy - £27 6. Rocket Book Cart - £45 7. Hedgehog Book Cart – £45 8. A Job Well Done Tool Set - £40

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& accessories 2

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1. L.O.L. Surprise! OMG Winter Chill Fashion Doll – Ages: 5+, £39.99 2. L.O.L Surprise! All-Star BBs Cheer Series – Ages: 6, £11.99 3. L.O.L. Surprise! #SOOTD Advent – Ages: 4+, £29.99 4. L.O.L. Surprise! Huggable Plush – Ages: 4+, £22.99

5. L.O.L. Surprise! OMG Fashion Journal – Ages: 4+, £26.99 6. L.O.L. Surprise! Deluxe Present Surprise (Pink) – Ages: 5+, £31.99 7. L.O.L. Surprise R/C Wheels – Ages: 4+, £29.99 (exclusively at The Entertainer)

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1. Toomies Egg Bus - £16.99 - Ages 12 months - 36 months - Smyths, Argos, Amazon, Very, The Range, Selfridges, John Lewis 2. Foam Cone Factory - £17.99 - Ages 18 months+ - Smyths, Argos, Amazon, The Entertainer, Tesco, Very, Waitrose, Hamleys, Selfridges, Next, John Lewis 3. John Deere Farmin Friends - £12.99 - Ages 18 months+ - Argos, Amazon, and Independent Stores 4. Ricky Zoom Lights and Sounds - £14.99 - Suitable for ages 3+ - Smyths, Argos, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Amazon, Very 5. Toomies 2-in-1 Eggventure Train - £19.99 - Ages 12-36 months - Smyths, Argos, Amazon, Very, The Range and Independent stores 6. Aquadoodle Super Rainbow Deluxe - £24.99 - Ages 18 months - Smyths, Argos, Hamleys, Amazon, Very and John Lewis 7. Lamaze - 3-in-1 Airtivity Centre - £69.99 - Ages: 6 months + - Amazon and Very 8. Lamaze - Freddie the Firefly - £14.99 - From birth onwards - Amazon, Argos, Boots, John Lewis, Smyths and Tesco

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Available from all good toy stores and:

www.sylvanianfamilies.co.uk 1. Sylvanian Families Red Roof Cosy Cottage - £26.99 2. Sylvanian Families Baby Ropeway Park - £14.99 (one figure incuded) 3. Sylvanian Families Adventure Tree House - £54.99

4. Sylvanian Families Caramel Dog Family - £19.99 5. Sylvanian Families Baby Hedgehog Hideout - £14.99 (one figure included) 6. Sylvanian Families Baby Collectibles (Camping) - £2.99 each

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1. Super Mario Piranha Plant Escape - £19.99 2. Super Mario Shaky Tower - £19.99 3. Super Mario Balancing Games - £9.99 each (available in green, blue and grey)

Available from Smyths, Argos, Amazon and all good toy stores!

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1. Explore & More Jumpscape Fold-Away Jumper - SRP £140 2. Zoo Fill Up Bee Fountain - SRP £10 3. Explore & More Fox Xylophone - SRP £18 4. Zoo 3-in-1 Ride On Toy - SRP £60 5. ABC & Me Activity Gym - SRP £80 6. Explore & More Hedgehog Accordion - SRP £17 7. Explore & More Follow Bee Crawl Toy - SRP £30 8. Zoo Stack & Pour Buckets - SRP £12 9. Bandana Buddies Activity Toys - SRP £16 10. Camping Cubs Activity Gym - SRP £80 11. Explore & More Selfie Phone - SRP £12

WWW.SKIPHOP.COM 21

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10 1. Pac Man Monopoly - From £28.99 - The Entertainer, Amazon, Argos 2. Smart Games - Penguins On Ice - £17.99 - Ages 4 years + - Smart Games 3. Janod Sound Camer - £12.99 - 18 months+ - JoJoMamanBebe 4. Infantino Baby’s 1st Playset - £29.99 - Suitable from Birth - Argos 5. Smartmax - My First Vehicle - £17.99 - Suitable from 1 - 5 years - Amazon 6. Janod Lama Ride-On - £69.99 - Suitable from 12 months + - Kidly 7.Aloka Colour & Shine - £17.99 - Suitable from 3 years + - Cheeky Rascals 8. Smart Games - Froggit - £24.99 - Suitable from 6 years + - Smart Games 9. Janod Limited Edition Silver Rocket - £18.99 - Suitable from 2 years + - Mulberry Bush 10.MAgna Tiles - From £19.99 - £99.99 - Suitable from 3+ - Smyths 11. Melissa & Doug Rainbow Mini Scratch Art Note Cube - £6.99 - Suitable from 4 years + - Amazon 12. Ewen the Dream Sheep - £39.99 - Suitable from Birth - Sweet Dreamers 13. Cheeky Chompers Bertie the Lion Gift Set - £25 - Suitable from Birth - Cheeky Chompers 14.Ewen the Dream Sheep - £39.99 - Suitable from Birth - Sweet Dreamers

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GIFT IDEAS FO For that someone special in your life... I absolutely adora Pandora - every year I get a special charm for my birthday, Mothers Day and Christmas. I love that my girls take the time to pick something together, just to make my day special. There is an incredible offer at the moment to buy the bracelet and two charms for just £99! For more information, please visit: www.pandora.co.uk

1. PO.P Stripe Adult Pyjama Top and Bottoms - These famous stripes have been worn by newborns & nannas across Sweden since 1976, the Originals collection make stylish staples for the whole family. From £25.00 per item - Polarn O Pyret

A fabulously flattering 100% cotton shirt which will change shape with you: through pregnancy and breast-feeding and back to your fabulous self. With the signature magnetic fastenings, they are ideal for breastfeeding as you can open and close with one hand – while the other hand cradles baby £45 For more information, visit: www.magnetmouse.co.uk Adding a pop of colour to mum’s stocking this Christmas, the Bravado Designs limited edition Lipstick Ballet nursing bra is the perfect stay-athome nursing sleep bra, ideal for cosy sofa days over the festive period. Price: £26.00 For more information, visit: www.bravadodesigns.net

Pampering body products and a moisturizing facial mask nourish the skin and bring it safely through the cold season. From Susanne Kaufman - Price: £45. For more information, pvisit: www.susannekaufmann.com

Create an indulgent new haircare ritual with Lime Basil & Mandarin, our signature zesty fragrance.

Peppery basil and aromatic white thyme bring an unexpected twist to the scent of limes on a Caribbean breeze. Price: £52. For more information, visit: www.jomalone.co.uk

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The Saffiano Personal Compact Zip Organiser - the ultimate multi-tasker for budget planning and keeping track of your expenses. This limited edition design by The Budget Mom is all you needed to start budgeting in style! Prices from: £40. For information, visit: https:// uk.filofax.com/

OR MUM & DAD Meet Fitbit Versa 3™, the motivational health & fitness smartwatch with built-in GPS, Active Zone Minutes and music experiences to keep you moving. Including FitBit Pay load your credit and debit cards to your Wallet in the Fitbit app, then use your watch to tap and pay for purchases on the go Create endless looks with Versa 3 accessory bands, including Fitbit.com exclusive collections from Victor Glemaud and Pendleton. New quick-release feature makes it easier than ever to swap looks. Prices from: £199.00.

For more information, please visit: www.fitbit.com.

Edwin Jagger DE86 Black Razor And Cream Gift Set (Limes & Pomegranate). The double edge safety razor is fitted with the classic Edwin Jagger DE Head, which has been popular amongst the wet shaving community for many years.

The closed comb head is expertly engineered and finished with a high-quality chrome plate. It has an excellent reputation for the expert level of shaving it achieves. Prices from: £38. For more details, visit: www.theenglishshavingcompany.com A Stocking Filler for the Dad who has everything …

Brand new for 2020 IQ Arrows is sure to point all avid gamers in the right direction this Christmas. From easy to expert, navigate your way through the booklet of 120 challenges to solve the puzzles by fitting the arrows in place. With all 7 game pieces needing to be on the board to complete the challenge, this single player mind boggler will keep you guessing which orientation the arrows should be in and how the colours should be arranged for hours! Price: £9.99 https://smarttoysandgames.co.uk Enjoy Christmas with this complete cocktail kit delivered straight to your door. Included in this highball kit is one 70cl bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky, one 500ml bottle of Fever Tree Ginger Ale and one Johnnie Walker highball glass. In this beautiful wooden box, this kit is also gift-ready. Price: £50.49. For more information, please visit: www.malts.com

It’s a mini Slush Puppie maker! Officially licensed Slush Puppie merch. Makes approx. 1 litre of tongue-tingling slush Option to choose between fine or course slush and includes 4 paper cups and straws. Price: £45.00. For more information, visit: www.menkind.co.uk No.1 Dad Wooden Sweet Box £26.99 - For more information, visit: www.prezzybox.com

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GIFT IDEAS FOR THE FAMILY

1. Bundle Bed - An ingenious all in one bed! - From £220.00 - Bundle Beds 2. Voksi Urban Sleeping Bag - From: approx. 0-1,5 years without extension, 0-5 years with extension - Voksi 3. Cuddledry - Hands Free Baby Towel - £34.99 - Cuddledry 4. Totter and Tumble - Playmat - From £125.00 - Totter and Tumble 5. Etta Loves - 3-pack sensory muslins - for newborn to 4 months old Etta Loves 6. Armadillo Sun - Adult Bean Bag Chairs - From £224.99 - Armadillo Sun 7. Voksi Baby Nest Premium - £99 - Cheeky Rascals 8. Armadillo Sun - iPad, Tablet & eReader Bean Bag Stand - £28.50 - Armadillo Sun

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Five reasons why parents need to make a Will

! EXCLUSIVE OFFER !

FOR ALL PARENTS WHO HAVE YOUNG CHILDREN! CLAIM YOUR FREE WILL BY QUOTING CODE: BABYBUZZ-WILL (Expires 31.01.2021 - Terms and Conditions Apply - see below)

You may not think it is important to do now, and maybe you think that you’ll get around to it one day, but with the current circumstances at the moment, there’s no better time to get it organised.

2: You can make sure there’s money to care for your children Bringing up children is expensive! You can specify how much of your wealth would be set aside specifically for your children, and how they, or their guardians, had access to that money.

Future Life is the UK’s Will writing specialist for parents with young families – protecting thousands of families across the UK. They have produced over 3000 Wills for parents of young children and will be offering free Will writing to our readers.

3: You can specify where your wealth goes – without a Will it may not go where you think If you don’t have a Will in place, your assets (property/life insurance/valuables etc) may not go where you want them to.

Especially if you are not married to your partner.

Future-Life Director, Rob Waller, gives us the 5 top reasons why parents need to make a will.

1: You choose who would look after your children.

Would you leave your children with no one to care for them for a day, a month or forever? No. A Will allows you to appoint your children’s guardians should both parents die before they are 18.

For unmarried couples, if the father’s name is not on the birth certificate, he might not get guardianship unless he is specifically appointed in a Will. Failing to appoint guardians means social services, and not family members, would make all the choices about your children. A Will is the only way to protect your children’s future.

4: You choose your executors and/or trustees Your executor or trustee is responsible for carrying out your financial wishes when you die. If you have children, your trustee would look after and invest the money until your children were 18 or over.

5: You can leave specific gifts to the people you choose Who gets the family heirlooms? What charities are important to you? Do you want to leave any money to friends or more distant family members? Writing a Will is the only way to ensure these wishes are achieved.

For more information or to book an appointment, contact: Future-Life Or Telephone: 01603 754 057 Email: advice@future-life.co.uk

Terms & Conditions:

To qualify for your free Wills, parents must have children between the ages of birth and 10 years old. You must ensure that when you contact Future-Life that you quote the complimentary code: BabyBuzz-Will.

27

HEALTH & WELLBEING

New childrenswear brand Beech is a breath of fresh air for parents with active, outdoorsy kids

New this season is childrenswear brand Beech, a range of designer sportswear and activewear which keeps children comfortable and confident outdoors, whether they’re playing sports, exploring on bikes or climbing trees. Designed for girls and boys who don’t want to wear the latest football strip or parents fed up with fast fashion, the Beech collection features high-tech performance materials, attention to details and is made to last.

Beech’s garment technologist searched globally for high quality fabrics most suited for children’s sportswear and has chosen NAIR from Italy. Rarely seen in kids’ clothing, NAIR guarantees maximum durability and freedom of movement in children who are always on the move ensuring each Beech item is sweat-wicking, breathable and quick-drying, perfect for children that are always on the go. Sharon Kaur, who has worked with brands including Superdry, River Island and Hobbs, helped to oversee every stage of the design process to ensure it met the company’s high standards creating stylish pieces featuring vivid colours, cheerful slogans and playful prints.

Working with the seasons, Beech clothing is suitable for all year-round wear and won’t let a little rain stop play. With an array of vivid colours, cheerful slogans and playful prints the range has long and short sleeved t-shirts and tanks with round necks, hoods, pockets and reflective stripes - all appealing to the young adventurer in everyone.

Says Beech co-founder and father of two active boys, “We all know spending time in the fresh air is incredibly beneficial for kids and makes them happy. The demands on clothes are high and we’ve worked with designers to produce a range of items

that children want to wear, feel relaxed and free in, which keeps them outside for longer - it’s a win, win!”

The Beech range is priced from £29 and designed for children aged 8 to 12 years.

Available to Buy Online www.mybeech.com 28

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Stay active, stay safe Exercise during pregnancy has so many benefits for mothersto-be and is good for baby too! Medical experts, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommend at least 30 minutes exercise on at least five days a week for all healthy pregnant women….and there’s never been a more important time to stay active than during the current pandemic.

Current research has firmly established a whole raft of reasons why pregnant women should find time for exercise from alleviating many common complaints such as tiredness, backache and swollen ankles to reducing the risk of preeclampsia, managing a health weight gain and treating or preventing gestational diabetes. Labour is one of the most physically demanding events your body will undergo and improving your strength and fitness will help prepare you for the birth of your baby. Staying active feels even more important now with the added anxiety of being pregnant during the pandemic. Finding time to exercise can help boost your mood, alleviating stress and promoting more restful sleep.

Support your bump for exercise Leading maternity activewear experts FittaMamma say, ‘Whether you’re new to exercise and want to improve your fitness in preparation for your baby or already workout regularly it’s worth choosing fitnesswear that’s been tried, tested and designed to support the changes to your body throughout pregnancy and after the baby is born.

It’s not just a case of buying the next size up in your usual leggings and wearing a bigger top – support is essential. Choosing fitnesswear that looks good will improve your confidence and motivation, encouraging you to exercise regularly, whether you’re following a home workout or online yoga class, cycling, running or simply enjoying a brisk walk.’

FittaMamma activewear is the only maternity range that has been independently tested for support – it showed a significant 48% reduction in bump bounce under lab conditions! The stylish tops and bottoms will definitely make your pregnancy workouts feel much more comfortable and secure, stretching and supporting whilst your bump gets bigger and helping to hold your ‘mummy tummy’ after your baby is born too.

The Ultimate range has a unique cross-back design and firm band under your bump, combined with built-in bra support for your boobs makes this top perform exceptionally well. The matching leggings have a wide roll up / fold under waist band to hold your bump firmly whatever level of activity you prefer.

Full range available from www.fittamamma.com

Your Chance to Win an Ultimate Top For your chance to win this fabulous”Ultimate” workout top, simply answer the following question: At what percent has it been proven that the Ultimate Top reduces bump movement?

Send your answers to: babybuzzmedia@gmail.com

29

HEALTH & WELLBEING

The five key steps to getting breastfeeding off to the best

by Lactation Co

and bottles in the early days and weeks. I recommend using this technique for somewhere between 5 and 6 weeks - trust your baby and trust the process.

…

Skin to skin contact with your baby As long as there are no complications, the focus after birth is for you and baby to enjoy some bonding time. Skin-to-skin with your baby can help regulate their temperature, heartrate and get breastfeeding off to the best start. Skin-to-skin will trigger your body to produce Oxytocin, aka: the love hormone.

Oxytocin will promote bonding between you and your baby and stimulate your milk production. This skin-to-skin time is the perfect setting to initiate your baby’s first feed. If you can’t have the golden hour straight away don’t worry, make it clear in your birth preferences that you wish to have this as soon as you can, bonding time is beneficial at any time, it is also lovely for Dad to have skin-to-skin and to help with bonding where possible too. …

Watch your baby not the clock Keep your baby with you as much as possible after birth so you can get to know them and their cues. Newborn babies will typically feed no less than 8 and sometimes more than 12 times each 24 hours for the first several weeks. This may look like feeding every hour, or feeding every 3 hours. Observe your baby for their hunger cues; sticking their tongue out, moving their head from side to side, rooting, opening and closing their mouth and bringing their hands to their mouth, these are all signs that your baby is hungry. Offer them the breast at this stage, it is a lot harder to latch on an upset baby, so try and feed them before they get to this point. …

Limit the use of dummies!

Why are we as lactation consultants not big fans? Well, as a general rule, lactation consultants don’t like the use of soothers in the early days as they mean your body is losing precious chances of frequent breast stimulation. Put simply, milk supply works on a ‘supply and demand’ basis. Our bodies respond to baby’s stimulation and when you give a soother or dummy, your breasts and brain are losing the chance to tell the body to make more milk. You can’t put off frequent feeds and expect to make enough milk. Bring baby to breast at every cue, limit pacifiers

…

Do not cover your baby’s hands I get it, you’ve read that list of “must-have items for newborns” by your favourite blogger..... and it says ‘mittens’. Done. In the cart. You don’t question it any further... However, while mittens on a newborn are cute and they prevent scratches, there is a bit more to consider before deciding to use them. When it comes to breastfeeding, babies use their hands as little radars to help them locate and latch onto the breast. Try not to get frustrated and discouraged when baby tries to get his/her hands involved at feeding time. Instead encourage them “what a clever little boy/girl you are”. Another wonderful and little-known fact about babies hands and feeding, is that immediately after delivery, you leave the amniotic fluid on baby’s hands. The smell of the lubricating fluid secreted by the Montgomery Glands on the areola smells like the amniotic fluid baby has on their hands and this helps to guide them to the breast for their first feed! …

Avoid supplemental feedings All your baby needs is you! It is very rare that I see a baby requiring more than just breast in the first 24 hours. Your milk supply works on a supply and demand basis. If you fall into the ‘top up’ trap, your body will miss an opportunity to feed and in so doing, will lower its supply to meet its new reduced demand for the following days. …

Positioning and attachment There is a reason that we call it breastfeeding and not nipple feeding. Babies should take in a mouthful of breast tissue. This will ensure less pain/nipple damage, better milk transfer and milk drainage, therefore better milk production. Here are some of my favourite tips for latching your baby on: • • • • • • • •

30

Place baby facing tummy to your tummy Your baby should be with their nose at the level of your nipple (using pillows and altering position can help with this) Tickle your baby’s nose and top lip with your nipple to trigger the reflex to open wide, like baby’s taking a big bite of a burger!

As soon as the baby opens wide, swiftly bring baby to your breast. Not the other way round or you will end up with a very sore back/neck Your baby should have their chin and cheeks touching the breast You want to hear your baby swallowing lots. About 1 swallow for every 2-3 sucks This might take several tries to get that deep latch and that’s okay! Don’t settle for the first one if it doesn’t feel right. You and baby are both learning together.

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reastfeeding should not be painful, your nipples may der during the first 2 weeks. This is very normal. Just as dy might be achy and sore when you first take up a new ere are a few things you can do to ease this discomfort:

HEALTH & WELLBEING

BREASTFEEDING ESSENTIALS the “BABY BUZZ” shopping guide If you’ve decided that breastfeeding is the option you want to choose for both you and your baby, then we’ve come up with some of our best buy essentials and some little luxury must-haves!

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ow my previous tips to ensure your baby is latching deeply at the breast. You want your nipple to be at the nt of baby’s soft palate not chomping down on your ple with the hard palate of their mouth. OWeee!

ure you practice good hygiene. By simply washing your asts with warm water and soap you may avoid minor ction very easily, and as a result reduce your risk of eloping mastitis.

skin repairs best in a moist wound healing environment. wing your nipples to “dry out” can actually cause a more damage than good. Multi-Mam breastfeeding mpresses are lovely for this, as well as providing mediate relief, their combination of ingredients have n proven to support the natural flora of the nipple. I d keeping mine in the fridge for that extra soothing, ling effect.

your support system h has found a strong link between breastfeeding and a strong support system. In a hospital based study s postpartum it showed how;

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“Strong approval of breastfeeding by the partner was associated with a high incidence of breastfeeding 98.1%), compared to only 26.9% breastfeeding when he partner was indifferent to feeding choice.”

es for your entire support system. Sister, cousin, ellow mama, partner or mother in law – all in all, matters! Check out your local breastfeeding group baby arrives. Borrow a good breastfeeding book from al library, invite your partner to your breastfeeding tion class, ask your mother or mother in law about their experiences and open the conversation.

don’t seem to be going well, or feeding is painful seek p. A lactation consultant can watch you feeding and tips and tricks to help improve your baby’s latch and ge deeper attachment at the breast, encouraging more milk transfer and a more comfortable mum.

reastfeeding! x

For more information, please contact: https://www.birth-baby-beyond.ie/ //www.instagram.com/birth_baby_beyond_/ /www.instagram.com/multimamandmultigyn/

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9 1. BEST BUY - Medela Swing Flex™ Essentials Breast Pump Set currently on offer for £115.99!

2. Medela Breastfeeding Starter Kit - £24.99 3. Hot Milk Maternity Lingerie Set - Stylish, functional nursing bra and matching bikini briefs - £39.99 (bra) and £17.00 (bikini briefs) 4. Dreamgenii Feeding Pillow - £26.00 - available in many styles 5. Lansinoh HPA Nipple Cream 40ml - £10.49 - Boots 6. Lansinoh disposable breast pads x 60- £4.79 7. Aden & Anais Muslin Squares - Pack of 3 - £19.99 8.Lansinoh First Week Essentials Kit - £52.44 - (feeding pillow, HPA Cream, Breast Pads and Milk Storage Bags) 9. Not On The High Street - Mama Cool Mum’s Water Bottle - £14.95 10. Tommee Tippee Advanced Steri-Dryer Electric Steriliser - £79.99 11. Tommee Tippee Newborn Closer to Nature Bottle Set - £24.99 12. MultiMam Breastfeeding Compresses - £14.99 (12 in a pack)

31

FEATURE

The Tigers are coming to Town!

Leading Irish childcare operator launches in the UK

Tigers Childcare, Ireland’s leading childcare operator with 13 centres in and around the capital, has just opened it’s first of nine planned launches in the UK. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, Tigers is already signing up new tiger cubs, boosted by a big recruitment drive for nursery staff, with its revolutionary take on childcare.

Tigers Childcare was conceived in 2003 by former teacher, Karen Clince in response to demand for high quality after-school provision for children of working parents in and around Dublin.

It has grown considerably over the last 17 years, expanding to include full day care and pre-school provision for children aged 4 months and up.

Karen explains, “We want to provide something that’s unique in the UK when it comes to childcare quality and family experience.

Much more than a childcare service, we offer a holistic take on this essential stage. We know many parents are anxious about returning to normality after the past few months and we want them to know that we are with them. At Tigers, children are encouraged to have opinions and to question and participate.

With 90 per cent of brain development taking place within the first five years of life, these years shape us into the people we will become. From the design of the centre to staff qualifications, we hope to set a new benchmark for childcare provision by applying the same practices, procedures and ethos underpinning our success in Ireland.”

Today, over 1,250 children are looked after by Tigers Childcare centres in where it is considered a market leader in the provision of high-quality childcare solutions. Karen Clince sits on a number of childcare-focused government boards and steering groups and is one of only 50 people in Ireland trained in the world renowned ITERS and ECERS scales, giving her a specialised understanding of what makes a high-standard childcare setting.

The first centre in the UK sits in stunning surroundings. The 7,000 sq ft centre is located in Elephant Park in South East London, the exciting new mixed-use development area in the heart of Elephant & Castle, comprising almost 3,000 homes plus shops, restaurants, cafes, green areas and a large central park area. Welcoming 120 children from 4 m to 12 years, the state-of-the-art space aims

to make learning fun and memorable with its two large partially covered outdoor play areas, sensory rooms, dedicated crawl spaces and sleeping pods.

The model used by the company is to exceed statutory requirements surrounding childcare staffing in the UK. All senior staff have degree qualifications with the remainder qualified in early-years care and education. This is compared with the UK’s standard requirement that only 50 per cent of staff need to be qualified in childcare.

When it comes to the centre itself, different rooms cater for different age groups: from a Discoverer’s Room for babies, to a Breakfast Club room for local school-going children. The facility also incorporates key areas with the aim to constantly challenge a child’s development and make learning fun. Children can enjoy stimulating areas for motor play, dramatic play, block play, gross motor area, small play, mess play, as well as an art centre, book corner and chill-out zone.

For more information, visit: www.tigerschildcare.co.uk

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Learn How To Save Money This Christmas With KidStart Christmas is going to be a little bit different this year but we know you will still want to make it magical for your little ones. Our friends at KidStart are here to give you advice on how to make this festive season one to remember whilst also saving money. ● Homemade advent calendar - there’s nothing wrong with the traditional chocolate calendars but why not take it to the next level with one a little more personalised.

There’s plenty of reusable advent calendars online you can buy or make your own. You can then fill it up with your child’s favourite sweets, small gifts or even homemade vouchers for activities e.g. ‘Christmas movie night - you pick the film’. ● Christmas activities at home - with the current restrictions you may not be able to see friends and family like you usually would in the run up to Christmas so plan things you can do at home. Festive movie nights, decoration making and baking will keep the kids busy and get you all in Christmas spirit. ● Use KidStart - we’re an online shopping club for parents that help them you save a little extra for their child’s savings.

It’s free to join and you can earn money back from over 2,300 retailers including John Lewis & Partners, eBay, Iceland, TUI and more.

Families spend a lot at this time of the year and you’ll be surprised how much money you can earn back for your little one by using KidStart.

Grandparents, other family members and friends can also be invited to help save too. ● Write a list - there’s often a lot to arrange at Christmas and writing lists will help keep things stress free. It will also stop you from splurging on unnecessary purchases if you have a strict list of what you do and don’t need. ● Keep an eye on your emails - this is one of the best places to check for offers as retailers will be running deals in the run up to Black Friday and Christmas. So, make sure you’re optedin to receive emails from your favourite brands, you can always unsubscribe at a later date.

Wishing you and your family a merry Christmas from everyone at KidStart!

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FEATURE

FOOD & RECIPES

OPEN WIDE…PLEEEASE! PARENTS FEELI •

78% of parents worry having a negative experience with food in early years could lead to their little ones having a bad relationship with food in later life

•

1 in 4 fear they aren’t offering enough vegetables and over a quarter (26%) would class their child as a fussy eater

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Less than a third (29%) of parents said they felt excited about introducing new foods to their little one, with 15% admitting the whole weaning process brought them to tears

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40% worry that they aren’t feeding their child the ‘right’ foods

•

Ella’s Kitchen is on a mission to help alleviate the worries and pressures faced by parents when it comes to weaning and feeding their little ones, so has launched WEANURSERY – a super fun and helpful online weaning hub packed full of expert videos, tips, recipe inspiration and advice designed to support parents in raising a generation of happy eaters, with a good relationship with food, from their very first taste

A new nationwide survey of 2,000 parents of under-fives, released by Ella’s Kitchen Brands Limited, reveals how parents across the country are feeling the heat in the kitchen when starting their little one’s weaning journey for the first time. With parents spending nearly a working day a week (7 hours) preparing their little one’s meals, nearly a quarter (22%) said they find the weaning journey super stressful and 26% admit it has made them feel anxious.

Less than a third (29%) of parents said they felt excited about introducing new foods to their little ones, with 15% admitting the whole weaning process brought them to tears.

Ella’s Kitchen has come to the rescue to help take the stress and worry out of weaning to make it an exciting time for little ones, with a brand-new online hub called WEANURSERY, jam-packed with everything you need to know about weaning! WEANURSERY features top tips, handy guides + yummy recipes from the experts, providing parents with lots of support to help alleviate those weaning worries.

With more focus than ever being placed on the importance of healthy eating habits for children, parents embarking on the weaning journey are feeling the pressure even from before their little one’s very first taste of broccoli.

Top weaning worries included: • • • •

Fear of choking (39%), Knowing if their child was getting enough of the nutrients they need (30%), Food refusal (24%) Confusion about where to start and what foods to try first (17%)

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Ella’s Kitchen – whose Mission is to improve relationships with food – created the WEAN weaning worries and misconceptions, so that sensorial, tiny taste bud adventure for their bab and inspiration to make the weaning journey a

Other weaning woes that parents shared incl fussy eating runs in the family, with two thirds habits will rub off on their little ones. 40% also the ‘right’ foods, with 15% admitting the whole

This comes as parents remember their own ne third remembering being told they had to eat being told they couldn’t leave the table until and being told not to play with their food (34%

With all these worries adding to the many pre to become an invaluable destination for new p Classroom provides a host of weaning videos an big tastes’ ‘signs your baby is ready’ ‘play + ‘making weaning fun with sensory play’ and packed with lots of easy peasy nutritional reci + Tell provides wisdom and tips from parents ( journey, and the Shop offers something for e veggie first tastes to perfect puree blends, alo This brand-new venture from Ella’s Kitchen is th seeking inspiration and support in creating a s

Claire Baseley, Ella’s nutritionist says: “Weanin we know it can be really emotional and stressf of mums, dads + carers: When do I start? How know when my baby is full? What foods shou our WEANURSERY online hub which we hope environment for new parents on the weaning videos from our experts as well as recipe hac parents. We focus on experiencing food with have fun exploring new tastes and textures tog

FOOD & RECIPES

ING THE PRESSURE AT BABY MEALTIMES

e children’s lives through developing healthy NURSERY hub to help parents navigate these t they can focus on creating a super fun and by, giving them even greater support, education an enjoyable and stress-free experience.

TOP TIPS FROM ELLA’S NUTRITIONIST CLAIRE BASELEY ON HOW TO TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF WEANING:

lude, how half of parents wrongly worry that (66%) concerned that their own personal bad o worry that they aren’t feeding their children e weaning process has brought them to tears.

2. Be kind with your time - try to plan your meals, shop online + try recipe hacks so you have more time to enjoy the experience with your baby.

egative early memories with food - with over a their veg or they couldn’t have dessert (35%), they’d eaten everything on their plate (35%) %).

essures that parents face, WEANURSEY is set parents across the country. The WEANURSERY nd expert advice on topics like ‘how to introduce + learn with finger foods’ ‘veg-first weaning’ d ‘dairy-free weaning’, the Yummy Kitchen is ipes created by Ella’s recipe developers, Show (who have done it all before) on their weaning every stage of your little one’s journey, from ong with unique bundles and delicious deals. he perfect one-stop destination for all parents super fun weaning journey for their little one.

ng is a super exciting time for any parent, but ful too. We hear the same questions from lots w do I start weaning my little one? How do I uld I offer first? We’re thrilled to be launching e will provide a really helpful and supportive journey. It’s jam-packed with handy weaning cks, nutrition advice and top tips from fellow all the senses so you and your little one can gether.’’

1.Go at your own pace + be led by your baby - try not to worry + compare yourself to others as every baby is different + will be ready for new experiences at different times.

3. Pick a time to start when your baby isn’t too hungry – the best time to introduce your baby to the wonderful world of food is when they aren’t too hungry or sleepy. Just after a lunchtime milk feed might be a good time to try.

4. Try a puree first - start with a perfectly smooth puree that has the same texture as double cream or runny honey. For now, one or two spoonfulsat a time is probably enough – it’s just to get your little one used to food that isn’t milk and to help them experience new tastes.

5. A veggie a day - for the first few days of weaning try offering a different veggie a day, so you can get tiny taste buds used to a range of flavours. Try soft cooking veg in a steamer and blend with a little of baby’s usual milk.

6. Don’t give up - if your little one pulls a funny face, it doesn’t mean they don’t like something…it’s just reeeally new! It can actually take up to 8 tastes for your little one to learn to love a new food, so keep trying.

7. Have fun with it - if you eat the same foods as your little one at the same time, they will love to copy you! Show them how yummy you think your food is, so they feel happy trying what’s in their bowl or on their plate.

8. Engage the senses - we believe that little ones who explore food with all their senses are more likely to grow up as happy little eaters! Let them feel fruit + veg, from a bumpy avocado to a furry kiwi. Their eyes will show them that what they eat comes in a rainbow of colours and their noses can sniff new + exciting smells.

Ella’s Kitchen WEANURSERY – an online weaning hub packed full of helpful videos, tips and advice for new parents - can be found here weanursery.co.uk

For more information and to experience WEANURSERY visit: ellaskitchen/weanursery.co.uk 35

FOOD & RECIPES

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FOOD & RECIPES

Brilliant ideas families love!

4 deeelicous cook books full of handy hints and tonnes of scrummy recipes to help get little ones and their families excited about cooking and eating together.

For more information, please visit: www.ellaskitchen.co.uk/

1.

2.

3.

4.

Wipeezee XL Coverall Bib - £19.99 Dribble Bib in Grey Stars - £6.99 Junior Bib in Pink Bubbles - £12.49 A gorgrous selection of Neoprene lunchbags - Prices from £11.99 5. Weaning pack - Children’s Placemat with Pocket and Feeding Bibs in Cars pattern - £27.99 6. Ultra Bibs £6.99 / 2 Pack - £12.99

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www.bibetta.com

FOOD & RECIPES

ENJOY SOME FRUITY FUN THIS CHRISTMAS Fruit Bowl, who have just celebrated their 20th year of putting the fun back into fruit, create everyday fruit snacks and yummy fruit treats that are perfect for lunchboxes, after school snacks or in your handbag when you’re on the go!

The snack range from Fruit Bowl includes Peelers, a six-stranded fruit snack, a tasty and fun way to eat fruit available in 3 delicious flavours. School Bars, a bar shaped snack made with real fruit for chomp happy children, available in 4 flavours. Fruit Bowl’s Fruit Flakes, soft chewy fruit pieces made from fruit purées available in 3 flavours and not forgetting their fun, fantasy Unicorn Fruit Flakes, a delicious combo of Raspberry, Strawberry and Blackcurrant Fruit Flakes packaged in individual shiny and holographic bags with fun designs printed on to the front of each individual multipack! The treat range from Fruit Bowl includes Yogurt Flakes, available in three flavours these little fruit pieces are covered in a delicious, gluten free yogurt and Yogurt Coated Raisins for a classic favourite that will please the whole family!

Finally, Fruit Bowl’s latest product brand new Dino Yogurt Eggs are roarrr-some raisins covered in a creamy yogurt shell. Perfect for hungry herbivores and ravenous raptors with red, green and blue speckled yogurt dinosaur egg shells made using all natural colours. Fruit Bowl recommend their tasty Fruit Bowl products for children aged 4 and above.

For more information, and to see the many fun recipes, including the one below, and crafts and activities they have, please visit: www.fruit-bowl.com

Christmas Reindeer Cakes Total cooking time: 45 minutes.

Instructions Preheat your oven to 180 degrees/ gas mark 4.

Beat 110g of the butter and all of the caster sugar together until fluffy.

Whisk in the eggs.

Add the flour and stir until combined.

Place the cases in a cupcake tray.

Spoon the mixture evenly into the cases.

Bake for 15 minutes or until a skewer placed in the centre of each cake comes out clean.

Leave on a wire rack to cool.

Meanwhile, make the buttercream.

Whisk the remaining butter until soft.

Add the icing sugar and cocoa powder and mix until smooth.

Once the cakes are cool, pipe the buttercream on top using a thick nozzle.

Chop each Fruit Bowl Strawberry Peeler into 6 so you have 12 pieces.

Push one of the Peeler pieces into the centre of the buttercream on each cake.

Take two pretzels and place on the top of the cupcake to make antlers.

Finally, place two of the edible eyes between the antlers and the peeler to create your Christmas reindeer!

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Servings: 12 You will need: 2 packs (16g) Fruit Bowl Strawberry Peelers 260g butter 110g caster sugar 2 large eggs 110g self-raising flour 300g icing sugar 3 tablespoons cocoa powder Edible eyes 24 pretzels 12 Christmas cupcake cases

FOOD & RECIPES

Cook with your kids with an award-winning baker Recent lockdown restrictions and regulations across the country can mean families feeling restricted on what new activities they can do with their children. Parents keen to spend quality time with their children, whilst learning new skills can join the award-winning baker, Ruth from Ruth’s Little Kitchen (https:// ruthslittlekitchen.co.uk/), and her online classes, that are easily accessed, to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

more complicated than that, and I can ensure that there will be lots of fun on the way.”

From running cooking lessons in Ruth’s Little Kitchen HQ in the picturesque village of Brockham, Surrey, Ruth had to quickly transform her classes online in response to Covid-19. After months of live workshops from Instagram and Facebook, she received such a huge success, leading Ruth to create an exciting range of online classes.

The range of modules includes ‘Introduction to Baking’, ‘Classic Cookery’, and ‘International Cuisine’.

In 2019, Ruth won Gold at the World Bread Awards following a positive response to her bakery and cooking school, and recently became the regional winner for the South East, in the Bread Hero Awards 2020.

Making Ruth a fantastic choice for those looking to build on their baking skills.

The online courses are also suitable for students of all ages to achieve the skills section of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, including bronze, silver and gold. Within these online classes, Ruth can also cover hygiene and safety, nutrition, food science and lots of useful tips (she even encourages the washing up!).

From the classic lockdown banana cake, to the delicious shortbread with chocolate drizzle, to the traditional white bread loath, Ruth will run you through her tried and tested baking recipes. The ‘Introduction to Baking’ classes includes 12 step-by-step videos in total, costing just £85, and can be enjoyed in your own time.

Ruth Macintyre, founder, Ruth’s Little Kitchen comments: “I strongly believe in encouraging individuals of all ages to enjoy cooking, especially during this time when we are all spending more time at home and in need of some more positivity.

From receiving high engagement and positive feedback on my live workshops on Instagram and Facebook, I am thrilled to be offering more online classes for all levels to try. My ethos is simple and authentic: cook, teach, share and eat. Baking doesn’t need to be any

To book an online class and become a Star Baker, please visit: Ruths Little Kitchen

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FESTIVE FOOD & BEVERAGES

Tesco Finest French Trimmed Crackling Pork Loin, with Truffle & Porcini Butter 1.38kg, £15.00 French trimmed pork loin filled with a garlic and succulent blacktruffle infused butter, basted in a truffle flavoured salt rub for golden and crispy crackling. Serves 6 Wicked Kitchen Wellington 400g, £7.00 Hand rolled ‘No-Beef’ wellington. A perfect plant-based centrepiece, with seasoned pea protein, flaky pastry, and onion and garlic sautéed porcini and chestnut mushroom duxelles. Serves 4

It’s be-gin-ning to look a lot like Christmas - From £7.99 Why not explore the extraordinary craft gin and gin liqueur collection from Aldi this year! From Icy Blueberry and Spiced Plum & Clementine, to Millionaire’s Shortbread and Mulled Winterberry.

Tesco Plant Chef BBQ Jackfruit Bon Bons, £2.00 Pulled jackfruit coated in a crunchy seasoned crumb and smoky barbecue sauce. Suitable for vegans.

Tesco Giant Pigs in Blanket 274g, £2.00 10 British pork sausages lightly seasoned with parsley, white pepper and black pepper, and hand wrapped in beechwoodsmoked streaky bacon rashers.

Tesco Roasting Roots Rainbow Carrots & Parsnips with Thyme 600g, Prepared red, orange, yellow and purple carrots, with parsnip wedges and a sprig of thyme, ready to roast. Vegan

Deluxe Three Fish Roast, 750g, £ 5.99 per pack, £7.99/kg Cod, Salmon & Smoked Haddock, Serves 4 Deluxe Christmas Hand Cooked Potato Crisps 150g, £ 0.75 per pack, 50p/100g Lobster Cocktail (3 flavours avilable)

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I can’t wait for Christmas Day and all the yummy food that we will be tucking into! There are so many options to choose from whether it be turkey, goose, duck, three and five bird roasts (or even fish) that we thought we’d look around and see what speical offers were available! Of course we can’t forget the trimmings to go along with these wonderous meals, so we’ve found some of the most scrummiest sauces, yummy side dishes and calorific puddings to go along with them! This year also sees some amazing Plant Based options that will certainly cater to every dietary requirement! Whatever you decide to cook this Christmas, we hope you and your family truly enjoy it!

FESTIVE FOOD & BEVERAGES Co-Op GRO Root Veg En Croute 384g, £4 Root veg encased in a rich vegan puff pastry with orange zest and cranberry sauce.

Co-Op Honey Glazed Ham Tortilla Rolls 150g - £1 Rolled maize snacks with a honey ham seasoning.

Irresistible Cranberry & Port Flooded Pork Pie 440g - £4 Hand-finished pork pie with select cuts of British pork with herbs and spices, flooded with a sweet cranberry and port jelly.

Irresistible Fully Loaded Billionaire’s Dessert 600g - £6 Layered dessert with chocolate flavour crumb base. Topped with salted caramel sauce, chocolate and salted caramel mousse, chocolate brownie cubes and chocolate shavings.

GRO Vegan Pigs in Blankets 280g, £3 Vegan cocktail sausages in puff pastry with a smoked paprika and parsley sprinkle.

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FEATURE

RED CASTLE INTRODUCES

FABULOUS FOX PRINT - PERFECT FOR LITTLE CUBS

This month, Red Castle welcomes a gorgeous new neutral design to its popular Cocoonababy and accessories range.

Introducing Happy Fox! This perfectly cute and adorable Fox design is available in the Cocoonababy nest (RRP:£130), which is perfect for daytime lounging. Welcoming baby gently into the world, it provides a comforting, reassuring, womb-like surrounding through its slightly inclined, semi-foetal cushioning.

Importantly, it can also help limit the onset of some of the most common adaptation difficulties that can upset babies during their first months including reflux and colic.

Suitable from newborn to approximately three months, the Cocoonababy is lightweight and easily portable, so whether you are both chilling in the living room, sat outside in the shade, or grabbing a quick bath or shower, baby can be right by your side. Plus, the Cocoonababy can also aid baby’s development too!

Designed with health care professionals and used by thousands of parents worldwide,

The clever sleeveless, enveloping design features a hood to keep baby’s head warm, whilst its side flaps wrap over the body, leaving two little ‘pockets’, perfect for tiny feet.

the Red Castle Cocoonababy is a safe, lightweight and portable cocoon, that helps ease the transition from mummy’s tummy to the outside world. Plus, for parents who love to co-ordinate, the new Happy Fox design is also available in the double fleece Babynomade multi-purpose blanket (RRP: £40).

This perfectly practical matching Happy Fox Babynomade blanket makes it super easy for parents to wrap their baby up quickly and easily and is a safe and convenient alternative to bulky winter coats when travelling in the car.

Great for parents taking their newborn home straight from hospital, it can be used in a car seat or stroller – thanks to its rear-harness slots. Baby can also be easily removed leaving Babynomade® ready in the car seat for the next journey.

The Red Castle Cocoonababy and Double Fleece Babynomade blanket are also available in a matching Dreamy Cloud print.

“Absolutely amazing product, if your little one likes cuddles or to feel snug this is the product for you!” Parent Review

“Great for babies with reflux. Very convenient to move around for daytime naps. Would definitely recommend, particularly for smaller babies.” Parent Review

Amazing product for the newborn. My baby love it! Parent Review

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Available from: Jo Jo Maman Bebe

More than one in seven parents of sick babies prevented from seeing their baby due to strict COVID-19 measures.

A recent survey by premature and sick baby charity Bliss has found that more than 1 in 7 parents were not able to be with their baby at all during their stay on a neonatal unit, due to tough COVID-19 restrictions.

Bliss’ survey also found 39% of parents said the unit where their baby was cared for imposed time limits on how long parents could be with their baby for – some as little as two hours a day. This was particularly acute for parents of the sickest babies – those who spent more than 4 weeks in hospital – of whom around 3 in 4 (74%) said restrictions on access affected their ability to be with their baby.

These limitations on parents’ presence at their babies’ cot side has had an enormous impact on families, with more than two fifths saying it affected their ability to bond with their baby.

70% of survey respondents also reported their mental health and well-being had been negatively affected, with this rising to 74% for parents whose babies had extended stays.

Parental involvement is proven to support sick and vulnerable babies to have the very best short and long-term outcomes and to support attachment and bonding, which is vital to the health and well-being of the whole family unit. These findings come as neonatal

units continue to limit when and for how long parents can be with their babies due to COVID-19. While guidance from national bodies and Bliss is clear that parents should never be considered visitors, some NHS Trusts are failing to provide adequate access for parents. While NHS England issued a National Framework to support the return of partners to maternity settings in September, this crucially did not include neonatal services.

Bliss’ survey highlights that national guidance to promote parent access to their babies in neonatal units is needed now more than ever to keep families together over the difficult winter ahead.

Carly Maclean, whose daughter was born on 26th March, faced harsh restrictions. Like many other parents, she and her partner had to make difficult decisions and hear devastating news on their own, as they weren’t able to be in the unit with the baby at the same time. She commented: “Parents (often Dads) have had to make incomprehensible sacrifices to not be there for their partners and their children.

“Having gone through a previous SCBU journey I can say without an ounce of doubt that COVID-19 has had a long lasting and mentally damaging impact on the SCBU journey

HEALTH & WELLBEING

with our daughter. When you’re sitting peering at your poorly baby, the only thing that can help is the gentle comfort of your partner, whether that is mundane conversation, a cup of tea, a hug or just the knowledge you’re not alone.

COVID-19 took that away.” A father of twins who completed Bliss’ survey commented: “I got involved in all cares but had to make hard choices. If I did cares, I couldn’t do skin to skin with both twins in the allotted time. It made us feel punished for having twins.”

Caroline Lee-Davey, Chief Executive at Bliss, commented: “Our findings show the devastating impact COVID-19 is having for families of premature and sick babies. A neonatal experience is extremely difficult at any time, but the current COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more challenging.

“Parents are the most important people in their baby’s lives.

While some Trusts have bent over backwards to ensure that parents have maintained 24/7 access to their babies, we are extremely disappointed that, despite clear, evidence-based recommendations to keep families together from Bliss and professional bodies like the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and the British Association of Perinatal Medicine, so many Trusts are

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still failing to act. ‘’We know these policies are also difficult for neonatal staff to implement, and many tell us they are keen to support more parental involvement – but they are struggling to secure this in the face of blanket Trust-wide restrictions on ‘visitors’ across their hospitals. Bliss is calling on NHS England to introduce a National Framework for parent access to neonatal units as a matter of urgency, and to work with NHS Trusts to implement it consistently across the country.

Our smallest and sickest babies need their parents at their side to give them the best chance of survival and recovery, even during a pandemic.’’

One in seven babies are born needing neonatal care in the UK every year, that’s 100,000 babies. Bliss is the UK’s leading charity for babies born premature or sick. Bliss champions the right for every baby born premature or sick to receive the best care. We achieve this by empowering families, influencing policy and practice, and enabling lifechanging research.

Visit bliss.org.uk for more information.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Five top reasons your child’s skin is itchy Everyone itches, it’s completely normal, but try telling that to an itchy child. Or even worse, try dealing with an itchy child! There are many reasons a child will have itchy (or pruritic) skin. Itch is defined by the need to scratch, which unfortunately can lead to an itchscratch cycle that can be hard to break! Once the cause has been determined, we aim to resolve the underlying problem and try and provide relief. The constant scratching can cause damage to the skin and increase the risk of secondary infection - which is something we want to avoid if at all possible. Some of the common causes of itch we might see are as follows:

Eczema or atopic dermatitis (and dry skin) Atopic dermatitis is another common cause of itch in children.

Usually there will be a family history of either eczema or asthma and it will present early in life. The cheeks are one of the most common areas affected especially in young infants. As they get older the pattern becomes more obvious involving the flexures - especially at the elbows and back of the knees. Again the itch can be worse at night, but there should be a visible rash to aid with diagnosis. The itch associated with eczema is very difficult to treat, especially in children and emollients are the mainstay of treatment.

Scabies Scabies is a common cause of itch in kids, and something we need to consider especially if more than one family member is itchy! It is acquired by skin-to-skin contact with someone already infested - so common between siblings. The itch tends to be worse at night. There doesn’t always tend to be anything to see on the skin (especially to mum or dad) but if we do see anything the most common place would be the hands (in particular the web spaces of the fingers).

When treating scabies it’s important to treat the whole family to make sure that it is completely cleared from the house.

Insect bites During the summer months insect bites can be a common cause of itch in children. They are usually fleeting in nature but can have an intense itch. They tend to be bright red with a central punctum.

Some children can develop almost like an allergic reaction to the bite or a secondary infection and may need treatment for same.

Chicken pox Chicken pox is also a common cause of itch in children. It is caused

by Varicella zoster virus and is common in young children. It is a highly infectious disease that is spread by airborne droplets and has an incubation period of seven to 21 days from contact with an affected individual. The child may be unwell with a fever before the rash appears. It is an intensely itchy rash that usually starts on the trunk and face and spreads to other areas. The lesions start out red and usual crust and heal over with time. They appear in crops (multiple lesions together). Once all the lesions have crusted over the child is no longer infectious. Unfortunately they can leave scars especially if children itch / scratch them so its great to try and help with the itch. PoxClin CoolMousse can be used in children of all ages to treat chicken pox. It contains a unique bioactive bacterial blocker for an effective treatment to sooth the itch, to recondition the skin and to help prevent scar tissue formation.

Molluscum contagiosum Molluscum contagiosum is a common, benign viral illness of the skin caused by poxvirus. Children erupt in skin coloured lesions that have a pearly look to them. They tend to spread from an initial lesion. They can be itchy in nature and if a child “itches’ them I can become secondarily infected. There can be just a couple of lesions, or hundreds. Unfortunately we don’t have a treatment for molluscum contagiosum, much to many parents dismay. While they are unsightly they won’t cause any long lasting issues.

Don’t forget itch is a common condition and not something to get overly worried about. Dry skin is probably the cause nine times out of 10! If you are worried, please do pop along and see your pharmacist or GP who would be glad to help. For more information, please visit: www.poxyclin.co.uk

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FEATURE

INTRODUCING THE LITTLE ORGANICS SKINCARE RANGE Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly – Cruelty Free – Halal Certified

Shampoo 250ml. RRP: £8.99 With a convenient and easy-to-use pump, this mild tear-free shampoo has a gentle and relaxing lavender sent – perfect for getting little ones settled before bedtime.

Natural Body wash 250ml. RRP: £8.99 This gentle, scent-free body wash for babies and children is perfect for little ones with sensitive skin. It has a natural formula with a mild Aloe Vera extract, which is soft on skin and tear free.

We all know that a baby’s skin is super soft and delicate. But did you know that it also plays a vital role in maintaining health by defending against irritants, germs and bacteria?

Whilst it’s important to look after our skin at any age, a baby’s skin needs extra special care, especially during the first years of life. So, when selecting products that are going to be used on their skin it’s important to choose carefully.

Created especially for babies and toddlers Little Organics by Mee-Go is a beautiful collection of completely organic, crueltyfree skincare products, which are also vegan & vegetarian friendly and free from parabens and alcohol.

In fact, because Little Organics products are ethically made using ingredients without any pesticides, chemicals, or fertilisers, they meet the same standards as organic food. PLUS, by using only natural plant-based ingredients (and no animal ingredients or absorbable alcohol) this range has also uniquely been awarded Halal Certification.

See the full range in more detail at: https://www.littleorganics.co.uk/ Twitter: @littleorganicsUK

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Bubble bath 250ml. RRP: £8.99 Who doesn’t LOVE a bubble bath?

Created using natural ingredients and a subtle lavender fragrance to help calm and soothe little ones before bedtime, as well as leave their skin gorgeously soft.

Moisturiser 250ml. RRP: £8.99 After bath time, pump a little of this silky moisturiser onto hands. When warmed up, gently massage into baby’s skin from top to toe to leave skin nourished with natural organic ingredients.

Handwash 250ml. RRP: £8.99 Children’s hands are often sticky or dirty -so need cleaning regularly. This cute and friendly bottle is sure to appeal to younger audiences and help them learn good hygiene practices. Simply pump, lather and rinse hands to leave them beautifully clean and refreshed.

100% Organic Hand Sanitiser 160ml.

RRP: £8.99 Whether it’s for your handbag, changing bag, school bag or at home, this 100% organic hand sanitiser is perfect for parents, babies and toddlers alike.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

C-SECTION - A PERSONAL REC I’m now nearly 16 weeks out from my third c-section with Romy and I wanted to chat a little bit about my recovery and top tips for everyone to think about. Let’s not forget that while some might think you are too “posh to push” having a c-section or that it’s somehow the easy way out - it is MAJOR abdominal surgery and should be treated as so. In fact, if I could only give one piece of advice, it would be to remember that. Give yourself the time to rest as much as you can.

Let’s think first about what happens during the surgery - the incision is made just below your bikini line and made first through the abdominal wall muscles and then through the wall of the womb. After baby is delivered the womb and abdominal wall muscles are sewn back together. Over time they will heal themselves. The incision on your skin also needs to heal. It’s normal to have a scar after the birth and it is usually horizontal below the bikini line. If it’s an emergency section and they are in a rush to get baby out it can sometimes be a vertical cut down the centre of the tummy which will be more obvious. Most people say that recovery from a c-section is longer and more difficult that a vaginal birth but some vaginal births can be quite difficult and so can lead to many complications and a difficult road to recovery. No matter what kind of birth you have it’s important to look after yourself as well as baby.

Recovery in hospital Let’s look first at your stay in hospital. Depending on where you are in the country you can stay in hospital anywhere from 48 hours to 5 days.

After my first two births I stayed three nights. This time with coronavirus restrictions I only stayed for 48 hours as I wanted to get home to my family. If you can stay in hospital for a bit longer, I would suggest take that chance, especially with toddlers at home as they can be demanding.

so the best bit of advice I can give for the early days is to follow instructions given by your own hospital. Usually the midwives will ch the dressing when you are leaving the hospital. I usually leave this o a couple of days and ask the midwives for some extra dressings whe leaving so you can change it if needs be at home. You would be surp how quickly the wound closes up though. After you shower, pat wound dry rather than rubbing it. Keep it clean and dry to pre infection. One of the biggest issues in the early days is that the wo can be uncomfortable especially if your panties / knickers are stic into it. For this reason, I always have big granny pants (in dark colo to wear for the first few weeks after the section - as well as comfy clo with high waistbands.

The first few weeks - returning to normal activities Like any other major abdominal surgery your body needs time to rec after a c-section and rest is an important part of that journey. It ca hard as obviously you have a new born to care for and they can be q demanding, especially if you are breastfeeding! Make sure to utilise husband or partner and family as much as you can. Ask them to off food or help out with chores around the house. The advice from hospital is usually not to lift anything heavier than your baby for the six weeks - not easy I tell you - have you tried lifting baby in a car se felt the weight of a buggy? Especially hard if you have a toddler at h This is an important step if you can manage it, and honestly one I al fail at!

It’s important to try and go for short gentle walks and stay mobile in first six weeks to help reduce your risk of blood clots. The tempta is easy to stay on the couch and soak up the fourth trimester bu should make every effort we can. Take extra care getting up and aro while you heal. Avoid the stairs as much as you can. Keep everyt close by on the couch - nappies / food / remote control! Find a good to get into and out of the bed without putting extra pressure on tummy muscles. You may find it easier to get out of bed by rolling o your side, dropping both legs over the side of the bed and then pus yourself up sideways into a sitting position. Try to stand up as str as you can. You can do the opposite to get back into bed. This can b issue if you have a co-sleeper so sometimes you might need to keep up higher, (nearly behind the bed) if you are having difficulty getting with it there.

Pain medications will be given in hospital. Use them as prescribed, they are not your enemy and it’s important that you aren’t in pain to aid your recovery. If you are susceptible to constipation, then you should ask for laxatives to keep your stools soft as the last thing you want to deal with is constipation and pushing after surgery! As I documented in my story some hospitals use injections to thin your blood as there is a risk of blood clots. You may also need to give these yourself at home depending on local policy. When in hospital take that time to learn as much as you can from midwives. If you have help use it. Rest. Sleep when baby sleeps (though I usually spend all my time staring down at them - even after three!)

You should wait up to six weeks before driving, having sex, exercisin lifting or carrying anything heavier than your child. If you were exerc pre-pregnancy then the usual advice is to check in with your GP at th week check. I usually suggest that all my patients get a full check over women’s health physio as well. Just because you had a c-section do mean your pelvic floor wasn’t affected. The process of carrying a can affect your pelvic floor also. Remember you know your body so if at six weeks you still don’t feel certain about something (havin anyone?) Then wait until you are sure. Nursing pillows can be a g help with feeding (breast or bottle) in the early weeks as they can he keep pressure off the incision scar. If you don’t have a nursing pillow you are breastfeeding then there are certain feeding positions tha help as well such as laid back feeding or lying down on the bed to fe

Wound Management in the early days I know lots of mums worry about dealing with their wound after the operation. Each surgeon will use different materials to suture the wound

Don’t forget about your mental health either Just as you need to take care for your body, you also shouldn’t fo about your mental health. Many women can suffer with baby b

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

COVERY.

C-SECTION RECOVERY the “BABY BUZZ” shopping guide

By GP, Dr Laura Lenihan

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Recovering from a C-section (or two speaking from personal experience) is not an easy thing to deal with, but you do learn to adjust to what your body needs to recover.

Here are some helpful purchases to help you along your journey. and post-natal depression after birth. In fact, some women who have traumatic births or sections that were unplanned can have higher rates of postnatal depression. If you feel exhausted, sad or find yourself crying all the time - don’t ignore it. Talk with your partner or health professional.

Scar management At about two weeks after surgery your wound should be healing but it will take about six weeks to three months for your scar to heal over completely. Its normal to lose feeling in the area of your wound, but in most cases this will return after some time has passed. Remember that as they cut through the skin and muscle, nerves are also cut leading to these unusual feelings. How we scar depends on a number of factors including skin type. Darker skinned people are more likely to scar. Some people also have more of a propensity to keloid (or hypertrophic) scarring. There are a number of tricks you can try to help prevent an abnormal scar forming and improve the appearance of your scar: •

• • •

Scar massage can help to break up scar tissue and prevent any itching or adhesions internally. You can use massage oils to massage the scar a couple of times a day moving over and back and up and down before applying any moisturiser or silicone gel.

Avoid sun exposure - scars can be more sensitive to getting sunburnt Extremes of temperature can make itchy scars worse so avoid hot baths or showers in the early days Using a silicone gel such as KELO-COTE® advanced formula on a healed scar will help both keep it hydrated and help prevent it from drying out. KELO-COTE® is intended for the treatment and prevention of hypertrophic and keloid scars (abnormal scars) resulting from burns, general surgical procedures and trauma wounds. It can be used once the scar is closed on the outside (so visibly closed). KELOCOTE® is proven in clinically studies and used by plastic surgeons the world over to help improve the appearance of scars - it can help to soften and flatten raised scars as well as reducing discolouration and redness. It can be used up to 4 years on scars after surgery. FYI you need to use it for minimum 60 to 90 days.

I hope you found these hints and tips useful post c-section. Head on over to my Instagram post to let me know if you have anything you would like to add or if you have any questions for me.

Thanks as always, Dr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauragp/

Laura 47

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1. Kelo-Cote Scar Gel - 15g - £29 https://www.dermacaredirect.co.uk/ 2. Belly Bandit® C-Section & Recovery Undies £64.95 - https://www.bellybandit.co.uk/ 3. Bio-Oil 60 ml - £8.85 https://www.expresschemist.co.uk 4 Purflo Breathable Bassinet (Soft Truffle reduced!!) £129.00 - https://purflo.com/ 5. New Moon 4-in-1 Pregnancy & Nursing Pillow £69.00 https://bellamoon.co/ 6.The Standard Snugglebundl - £39.99 https://www.snugglebundl.co.uk/.

7. MOST IMPORTANTLY - ASK FOR HELP IF NEEDED

FEATURE

Aston Rose Marks a Truly Golden First Year There’s great excitement at Ickle Bubba HQ, as the brand celebrates one year since its Aston Rose collection arrived on the scene! The popular travel system has truly raised the standard in infant travel systems with its impeccable style, attention to detail, and comfort for parent and baby. The brand is delighted to be applauding a phenomenal year for this line.

Thanks to its stylish look, superior features and exceptional value, The Aston Rose Travel System has been a great addition to the Ickle Bubba range. Interestingly, since the travel system arrived a year ago, the brand has found it to be hugely popular with city dwellers. The high-end, all-in-one, 10-piece Aston Rose Travel System bundle includes everything you need from birth up until four years, including a pushchair, carrycot, i-size car seat, Isofix base, adapters, and

much more. Setting the benchmark for quality and design, the gorgeous travel system features luxury gold detailing, seat liner, footmuff and a stunning matching changing bag. From its extendable shopping basket to the unique reversible handle, it’s clear that the Aston Rose has been designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The cheaper 8-piece bundles includes all the above, minus the car seat and Isofix base.

Customers have praised the Aston Rose for multiple reasons, with one parent saying: “I think that the gold parts and leather finish really give it that luxury edge. It really is a head turner.”

Another fan said: “The Isofix and car seat are super easy to use and again has a really premium feel. I’m really impressed with the high quality of everything and the ease to adjust it. I’d definitely recommend!”

To celebrate one year of Aston Rose, the brand, have one to giveaway to a lucky winner on their website: https://www. icklebubba.com/competition/aston-rose-bundle RRP: From £699 | Available from https://www.icklebubba.com

LIMITED EDITION 2 3 4

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1 1. Baby & Me Washbag - £24.99 | 2. Limited Edition Elf Cuddledry Towel: £37.99 | 3.Newborn Preparation and Arrival Bundle - £65.98 | 4. Cuddletwist Hair Wrap Towel - £10.99 | 5. Toddler Handwash Towel - £7.99

https://cuddledry.com/

Transforming baby bathtime from struggle to snuggle!

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Strategies to support your baby overcome reflux As a maternity nurse consultant, I come across babies • Feeding baby without delay. They may have who present reflux symptoms every day. Most of the swallowed air if they have cried for a long time time, parents are overwhelmed by their new life with before a feed. baby and on top of that they realize that baby has a • Check the size of the bottle teat. The bottle should health issue. It is always hard as parents to find out leak several drops of milk per second. A hole that that their baby has a reflux. is too big will let baby swallow too quickly and they are likely to spit up the excess. A hole that is too The usual symptoms are : small forces baby to suck very hard and swallow • Signs of pain or discomfort when feeding. air.

• A baby arching their back and turning their • Burping them several times during each feeding. head.

• Make sure nappies are not too tight and do not put • Crying for long periods of time and becoming pressure on your baby’s stomach. Avoid legging irritable during and after feeds. or baby tight.

• Choking or coughing during a feed or seeming to have a sore throat.

These tips are generic and different depending on • Spitting up milk during or after feeds at least each baby and their age. During my consultations, I once a day. can provide you support and guidance to overcome • Fighting feeding or refusing to feed. reflux but if your baby has reflux symptoms, I would • Difficulty to fall asleep/ Uncomfortable in a recommend to consult your GP first. Reflux signs can lying down position be related to milk allergies/intolerances or something • Persistent hiccups. else.

• Frequent ear infections (signs for baby up to 4 months) For more information, please do visit me at: • Skin rash (for baby with milk intolerance) www.mathildematernity.com/ At first, I would recommend that you burp your baby regularly throughout feeding. To give your baby smaller but more frequent feeds. You should hold your baby upright for a period of time after feeding. In addition, if your baby is formula fed, use thicker milk formulas that are less likely to be brought back up.

Others useful tips: • Making each feed calm and relaxed and keeping baby in a sitting position during feedings and for at least 20 minutes afterwards can help relieve some of the discomfort associated with the reflux.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING A staggering 8 out of 10 women will get stretch marks during pregnancy.

They are an everyday problem, affecting all skin types, developing on thighs, breasts and most commonly on the tummy.

During pregnancy, hormones soften fibres in the skin in preparation for labour, making it more susceptible to tears as the skin stretches. Think of a windscreen splitting downwards after a small crack appears from a flyaway stone. Stretch marks form in a similar way. A small red microtear will appear in the skin and then, already weakened, the skin will eventually tear in a straight line downwards, at right angles to the body’s natural skin lines (known as Langer’s lines).

These tears appear as red lines that fade slowly after childbirth to leave pale, silvery tracks on the skin. They never disappear completely and can cause deep physical and emotional issues. Even with today’s body positive attitude to skin imperfections, women can be emotionally scarred forever, when left with a tummy full of stretch marks.

Everything you need to know about pregnancy stretch marks !

A new Stretch Mark Prevention product that works Unfortunately, once formed, there is little that can be done to remove stretch marks. As evidenced in the internationally renowned Cochrane Report on stretch marks, as well as the British Journal of Dermatology, creams, oils and gels don’t work.

Secret Saviours is a new FemTec innovation that can prevent stretch marks. It’s been invented by scientists at University College Hospital in London and has been clinically proven to work. This product is a simple three-step Stretch Mark Prevention System consisting of clever maternity underwear, Day Gel and Night Cream. When worn daily throughout pregnancy the revolutionary underwear (a Bump Band or Full-Briefs) secretly gets on with the job of preventing stretch marks, whilst mums-to-be get on with the job of growing their baby.

How does Secret Saviours Work?

Using Dermal Support TechnologyTM clever tacky pads in the maternity underwear gently grip the skin dispersing pressure that builds up as it stretches over mum’s growing bump. This process will prevent any of the small itchy micro-tears, that indicate the beginning of a stretch mark, from forming. And just in case a micro-tear does appear the pads have been developed in a random pattern so they will block the path of a stretch mark as it tries to tear downwards at right angles to the body’s natural skin lines. The Day Gel and Night Cream are powered by ingredients from nature and play essential roles in the 3-step system too. Once rubbed over mum’s bump, the Day Gel will allow the pads printed into the Band/Full Briefs to grip the skin. And the Night Cream has been scientifically developed to effectively nourish the skin at the end of each day.

In independent trials 82% of women who used Secret Saviours came out of pregnancy stretch mark free. With growing evidence that creams, gels and oils simply cannot prevent the skin tearing, this really does make it every pregnant women’s best insurance against stretch marks. For more information, please visit: www.secretsaviours.com

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ENTERTAINMENT This Christmas Disney+ has some great family entertainment in store. From Disney+ Originals such as Once Upon A Snowman, family favourites such as The Santa Clause, Frozen and Frozen 2, and seasonal specials such as The Muppet Christmas Carol and Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas, there truly is something for everyone on Disney+. Check out some of the new and upcoming features this Christmas.....

In Disney+’s holiday comedy “Noelle,” Kris Kringle’s daughter is full of Christmas spirit and holiday fun, but wishes she could do something “important” like her beloved brother Nick, who will take over for their father this Christmas. When Nick is about to crumble like a gingerbread cookie from all the pressure, Noelle suggests he take a break and get away…but when he doesn’t return, Noelle must find her brother and bring him back in time to save Christmas.

In this modern day reimagining of Anna Sewell’s timeless classic, we follow Black Beauty, a wild horse born free in the American West.

Rounded up and taken away from her family, Beauty is brought to Birtwick Stables where she meets a spirited teenage girl, Jo Green.

Beauty and Jo forge an unbreakable bond that carries Beauty through the different chapters, challenges, and adventures of her life.

Set at Christmas time, “Godmothered” is a comedy about Eleanor, a young, inexperienced fairy godmother-intraining (Jillian Bell), who upon hearing that her chosen profession is facing extinction, decides to show the world that people still need fairy godmothers.

Finding a mislaid letter from a 10-year-old girl in distress, Eleanor tracks her down and discovers that the girl, Mackenzie, is now a 40-year-old single mom (Isla Fisher) working at a news station in Boston. Having lost her husband several years earlier, Mackenzie has all but given up on the idea of “happily ever after,” but Eleanor is bound and determined to give Mackenzie a happiness makeover, whether she likes it or not.

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What is it that makes you...YOU? Pixar Animation Studios’ all-new feature film “Soul” introduces Joe Gardner (voice of Jamie Foxx) – a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town. But one small misstep takes him from the streets of New York City to The Great Before – a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities, quirks and interests before they go to Earth. Determined to return to his life, Joe teams up with a precocious soul, 22 (voice of Tina Fey), who has never understood the appeal of the human experience. As Joe desperately tries to show 22 what’s great about living, he may just discover the answers to some of life’s most important questions.

Directed by Academy Award® winner Pete Docter (“Inside Out,” “Up”), co-directed by Kemp Powers (“One Night in Miami”) and produced by Academy Award nominee Dana Murray, p.g.a. (Pixar short “Lou”).

Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” will be available exclusively on Disney+ (where Disney+ is available) beginning Dec. 25, 2020.

For more details or to subscribe to Disney+, please visit:

www.disneyplus.com

FEATURE

The ultimate gifts for new parents from BABYBJÖRN This Christmas, parents will adore a gift from multi awardwinning Scandinavian brand, BabyBjörn. For new parents the Baby Carrier Mini makes life with a newborn a dream, as they will love having their baby close and comforted, whilst they have their hands free. The BabyBjorn Bouncer Bliss is a beautiful addition to any home, loved world-wide this essential parenting product allows little ones to bounce themselves, no batteries required, and is the perfect place for them to rest or play. In addition to this, the BabyBjorn kitchen range offers parents introducing their little ones to food design led, pretty and ergonomic solutions to feeding so they can enjoy experiencing their baby enjoy their first tastes.

Designed to fit the needs of a newborn baby, the simple design of the Baby Carrier Mini makes is easy to put on, even in the middle of the night, and the luxurious, tactile fabrics are gentle on your newborn’s delicate skin. You can feel your baby is being carried in a natural position, with their back in a gentle c-curve.

The BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini is available in:

For more information, please visit: www.babybjorn.co.uk

The new BabyBjorn Baby Dinner Set gift box is a lovely present for foodie families or those who are starting to wean their little one, choose between powder pink, powder blue, powder green, or powder yellow. It contains a Baby Plate, Baby Spoon & Fork, Baby Cup and Baby Bib.

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Soft-touch, flexible 3D Jersey (RRP: £84.99): Charcoal Grey, Light Grey, Dark Grey, Dove Blue

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Breathable, cool 3D Mesh (RRP: £84.99): Grey, Anthracite.

Navy, Pearly Pink

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High quality, BCI Cotton Satin (RRP: £74.99): Dusty Pink, Light yellow, Black, Vintage Indigo

Bounce into Christmas, with the BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss Loved the world over, for more than 50 years the BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss is a must have for any family with a baby, light, portable and stylish the bouncer uses the baby’s natural movement to bounce, helping with motor skills.

The eating utensils are easy to hold and ideal for little hands, whilst the non-tip plate and cup ensures easier and less messy mealtimes. The comfy bib with beaded trim feels soft against the child’s neck and is adjustable to make it easier for parents to open and close. The deep catchall pocket ensures the food stays in there too! £33.99

The ergonomic design provides support from newborn all the way up to two years old, when it can be used as a chair, it grows with the baby and is a soft and comfortable place for babies to rest and play.

Available in a wide range of colours to suit any home, with the option of new covers to mix things up too. Choose between cotton, 3D Jersey or mesh fabric.

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FEATURE

Love and Comfort with the Baby Carrier Move

BabyBjörn is promoting love and comfort with the ergonomic Baby Carrier Move, a carrier designed for simplicity in the home or out and about, for use from day one, all the way to 15 months. The superior back support and an ergonomic waist belt makes the Baby Carrier Move super comfortable for parents, and as with all BabyBjorn Baby Carriers, little ones love being carried, being close to their parent’s heart as they grow and can explore the world together.

The baby carrier’s thin and flexible 3D mesh fabric ensures that a newborn baby is sitting in a perfect position and the size of the baby carrier can be adjusted as the baby grows. The soft fabric hugs the baby’s back, legs and hips, and provides good support.

For the first five months, the baby is carried facing inwards and then from approximately 6 months parents have the option of carrying their baby facing outwards. The baby carrier is fully adjustable.

Thirty million babies have been carried in a BabyBjörn Baby Carrier since the very first one – Close to Heart – was launched in 1973. The company, which was founded in 1961, continually develops and simplifies its baby carriers to be able to offer parents babywearing equipment that suits their family. It’s important that a baby carrier adapts easily to the baby’s size and the family’s lifestyle.

“We have tested Baby Carrier Move with a large number of test families in their home environments and on long walks over a long period in order to make sure that it’s comfortable for both parents and babies.” says BabyBjörn’s Josefin Kleremo, project manager for Baby Carrier Move.

Baby Carrier Move is acknowledged as hip-healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI). https://bit. ly/2IH41b1

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The baby carrier is made of an airy 3D mesh fabric that breathes well and dries quickly after washing. The fabric has been specially developed for BabyBjörn’s baby carriers and meets the requirements of OEKO-TEX 100 Class 1 for safe textiles for babies and toddlers.

Baby Carrier Move is available from www.babybjorn.co.uk in the colours Light Grey, Navy, Anthracite and Sage green. Recommended Retail Price: £119.99

REVIEWS BABY BREZZA FORMULA PRO ADVANCED What they say: The pressure of time is a problem for many parents and caregivers. Making bottles becomes a regular and potentially stressful chore. But with Baby Brezza Automatic Bottle Maker, formula bottle preparation is now a breeze! The Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced is the most innovative way to automatically make a warm, formula bottle in 15 seconds, saving you up to 30 minutes a day. You can customize the perfect bottle for your baby and it works with virtually all brands of formula, and all bottle brands and sizes. Just pick your settings and push the start button for your automatic baby bottle!

instructions online just in case you aren’t sure you’ve done it correctly. We reverted to this when setting the machine up just to be on the safe side. The only con we could really find was the cost. It is a tad on the expensive side but att he end of the day, the cost was outweighed by functionality and convenience of use.

What we say: At first glance this may look a little daunting, especially when you have to put it all together.

If you read the instructions carefully, you’ll find that it actually takes no time at all! The simplicity this takes to set up compared to the ease and stress free worries of waiting for a warm bottle of milk are invaluable.

You can easily set the machine to use your preferred type of formula and the milk come out at a consistency and temperature that is good. Always check the temperature anyway just to be sure! Cleaning the parts to this are so straight forward and there are simple

PRICE: From £235 (CheekyRascals) PRACTICALITY: 5 / 5 SAFETY: 5 / 5 MAINTENANCE: 4 / 5 AFFORDABILITY: 4 / 5

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REVIEWS What they say:

Our Honest Face + Body Lotion gently hydrates from head to toe. Whether you’re massaging into your baby’s skin or your own, our versatile lotion for babies (and all ages) soothes and moisturizes with a nourishing blend of jojoba, shea and safflower oils. Choose from calming Lavender, nourishing Sweet Almond, classic Sweet Orange Vanilla — or our Fragrance-Free option. We created each of our blissful scents with a combination of naturally derived botanicals and essential oils.

What we say:

Oh wow, we certainly found a winner with the Bathtime Routine Kit from The Honest Co. As much as my ‘little one’ isn’t so little now (she’s 9) - this worked so well with her. The shampoo, I thought was a little runny at first, lathered up really nicely and left her hair literally squeaky clean.

The conditioner is the smoothest moisturiser and I could run my fingers

What they say:

Designed for little kids with big imaginations, Magna-Tiles® and Magna-Qubix® magnetic blocks encourage free play and reduce screen time while encouraging interest in STEM learning. Our magnetic shapes come in a rainbow of bright, brilliant colors and “click” together to create letters, numbers, animals, buildings, and anything else children can imagine! From learning in the classroom to screenfree playtime at home, the original magnetic building toys are sure to inspire creativity in everyone from children to adults.

What we say: I have always been an avid fan of toys and games that aren’t electronic! These are incredible fun for both young (and old!).

We werediscovering all the

straight through her hair afterwards.

I like that this is natural based and we didn’t need a great deal to do the job. The face & body lotion is also incredibly soft - you don’t need a lot - I’d seen previous comments that this was runny but that certainly isn’t the case. Our skin, after using this, felt like velvet - a definite keep for both of us! The bubble bath was good again a little goes a long way and we had a bath full of bubbles! Little one was very pleased about this!We would both highly recommend all these. We had the option to try out the Fragrance Free set but there are scented versions available.

PRICE: From £23.95 (Amazon) QUANTITY: 5 / 5 QUALITY: 5 /5 AFFORDABILITY: 3.5 / 5

www.honest.com different ways in which we could put these together and what shapes we could make. I loved that they are made of a non-toxic material, stainless steel rivets, and highly translucent, clear colors that are not foggy. Great fun for all the family!

PRICE: From £19.99 - to £99.99 (Smyths) DURABILITY: 5 / 5 QUALITY: 5 /5 AFFORDABILITY: 4.5 / 5

What they say: The Purflo Sleep Tight Baby Bed is the first of its kind to be certified for unsupervised and overnight sleep from birth – eliminating concerns raised by traditional nests and sleep positioners. Tested above and beyond safety regulations, the Sleep Tight Baby Bed is the ultimate, multifunctional safe sleeping space for baby from birth to 8 months.

What we say: An incredibly soft to the touch baby bed that can be used instead of a crib, travel cot or moses basket, With the sides made out of a mesh fabric, the worry of baby rolling into the side and having breathing hindered are eliminated. Don’t be fooled by all the soft elements of this baby bed though, as the bed base is firm and sturdy enough to carefully hold baby and keep them safe and secure. I love that there are four colours available but you can also buy the covers if you wanted to change them around.

What they say: The Philips AVENT microwave steriliser uses the hospital method of steam sterilisation, which is quick, easy and efficient, with no chemicals involved. The compact design is ideal for fast, effective sterilising at home or away. Up to 4 AVENT bottles or products can be sterilised at once, with 99.9% of germs killed in just 2 minutes.

What we say: Philips Avent has been a well renowned brand when it comes to mother and baby care for many years. What I really liked about the Microwave steriliser was the ease of use. It is extremely straight forward to use and takes a fraction of the time than most conventional electric sterilisers. A word of warning, the steriliser is quite chunky so your smaller microwave may not be big enough. Be careful when opening it too, as it will be full of steam The

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At such great value, this really is at the top of the market. There are cheaper alternatives out there but these haven’t been certified for unsupervised sleep. We tested this out with a 4 week old baby who was extremely snug and secure and slept very well! What more could you ask for! Definitely a best buy!

PRICE: From £90.00 - £120.00 COMFORT: 5 / 5 PRACTICALITY: 5 / 5 SAFETY: 5 / 5 MAINTENANCE: 5 / 5 AFFORDABILITY: 5 / 5

www.purflo.com

Avent bottles can be bought on their own or in the Starter sets. The Natural Set has an ultra-soft teat that closely resembles the breast so for those who want to combine breast feeding and bottle feeding should find this a smooth transition.

The Starter Set also comes with the bottle brush and a soother.

PRICE: Steriliser: £34.99 Avent Bottles: £32.99 APPEARANCE: 5 / 5 USE: 5 / 5 MAINTENANCE: 5 / 5 AFFORDABILITY: 5 / 5 BUY: www.philips.co.uk

REVIEWS

What they say: Traditional holiday-themed Advent calendar for the littlest ones, with lots of forest animals and Santa Claus in a reindeer sleigh.

What we say: A great alternative for the younger members of the family.

I personally love that this is a ‘chocolate free’ option. With each day giving a small toy and the doors easily opened for little fingers, this is a great advent calendar. A little more expensive than your average advent calendar, it still works as a good way for little children to enjoy the run up to Christmas. I had a friends Grand-daughter, who is almost 18 months, have a little bit of early fun and her reactions were just precious! A definite win!

Price: £6.99 | www.penguin.co.uk | From ages: 2 - 6 years old From Penguin Books is this lovely little book about Rumble the Dinosaur.

With a glittery front cover and cute illustrations, this will get your child’s attention. This softly rhyming story is sure to get the littlest members of our family looking forward to bedtime.

Fun and easy to read, the story tells of Rumble roaming through the forest as his mum is telling him, it’s almost bedtime. Very sweet read that I’m sure will be enjoyed. A good 4 / 5 from us.

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PRICE: £24.99 APPEARANCE: 5 / 5 SIZE: 5 / 5 AFFORDABILITY: 3 / 5 BUY: www.playmobil.co.uk

REVIEWS

BABY BUZZ BOOK REVIEWS

With thanks to Penguin, Ladybird and Puffin for sending us all the fantastic books this month, as pictured below.

Price: £12.99 | www.penguin.co.uk From Penguin Books comes this beautfully illustrated book depicting the life of Captain Sir Tom Moore.

With beautiful pictures detailing the different stages of Captain Sir Tom Moore’s life, this book is a fantastic way of teaching our children as well as ourselves what Captain Sir Tom Moore always said “The First Step is always the hardest, but unless you take that first step, you’ll never finish”. A massive 5 / 5 from us!

Price: £6.99 | www.penguin.co.uk | From ages: 2 - 7 years All Pablo books are written by writers on the autistic spectrum and are grounded in the real-life experiences of autistic children. For me this is just amazing as my “day job” is Business Manager of three special needs provisions and young people who are on the autistic spectrum. The detailed writing and understanding of people who are on the spectrum is just so spot on and makes things that much easier to understand. Even an adult who has never experienced dealing with someone on the autistic spectrum - these books are so incredibly useful to us all. There are a series of books that would benefit everyone with children! Another 5 / 5 from us!

Price: £6.99 | www.penguin.co.uk | From ages: Price: £12.99 | www.penguin.co.uk | 2 - 6 years old From ages: 3 - 5 years old From Penguin Books is another lovely little book Oh the memories this one brings back! I used about Twinkle the Unicorn. This is part of a 5 series to read and play with this with my now 9 year collection all about different characters with “Ten old daughter. Join the Jolly Postman on his Minutse to Bed” With a glittery front cover and more rounds as he delivers cards and letters to various cute illustrations, this also has a softly rhyming story, fairy-tale characters. He has a letter of apology One little mummy concern was about having a party for the three bears from Goldilocks, a postcard and birthday cake before bed - all mummies will be from Jack for the giant, a solicitor’s letter on raising an eyebrow at this! Fun and easy to read, behalf of Little Red Riding-Hood for the wolf the story tells of Twinkle roaming through the forest who ate grandma, and more! This classic and with her friends as her dad is tellingher, it’s almost innovate story includes six envelopes with pullbedtime. Another very sweet read that I’m sure will out letters and cards. This is just so much fun as be enjoyed. A steady 3.5 / 5 from us. an interactive book and it never gets old! We love it! The excitement as you reach another envelope to see what it will bring! A huge 5/5 from us.

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FEATURE

DIOR UNVEILS THE 1ST STROLLER Baby Dior presents its first baby stroller, dressed in the unmistakable Dior Oblique print.

Designed in collaboration with Inglesina, a specialist in luxury baby strollers and highchairs, and crafted in the company’s workshop in Italy, this object of desire – on which the art of detail extends to the wheels and leather handlebars bearing the «Dior» logo – combines excellence, functionality and timeless elegance.

Further underscoring its contemporary design, the House’s iconic signature is emblazoned on its adjustable canopy, providing protection from the sun or rain. This exceptional, modular creation can be folded and unfolded as desired, with ease, agility and speed, and in complete safety.

For infants, an irresistible baby carriage – also decorated with the Dior Oblique motif – can be set into the stroller’s frame, offering softness, support and comfort. This essential respects the well-being of every baby thanks to its innovative ventilation system and a mattress made of natural bamboo fibers.

A matching diaper bag in jacquard canvas fits easily over the handlebars, adding a distinctive touch.

Blue and Beige Water-Repellent Canvas with Dior Oblique Print STROLLER PRICE: £2,800.00 CHANGING BAG PRICE: £1,700

RELEASE DATE: DECEMBER 2020

www.dior.com

Specification: Adjustable leather handle Reversible seat (can be positioned facing forward or facing parent).

The stroller can be folded both ways Can be reclined into sleeping position Wide and comfortable seat with a padded safety harness Adjustable footrest Removable and washable UPF 50+ anti-UV integral hood with ventilation system Solid wheels with locking system Accessories provided: full rain cover, cup holder and basket Open dimensions: 50 x 112 x 84-100 cm Closed dimensions: 50 x 90 x 42 cm Total weight (stroller and frame): 12.3 kg Maximum weight of child: 22 kg

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FASHION FOCUS

Made with super-soft GOTS organic cotton and with our signature fold-down cuffs for lots of growing room. The comfiest bodysuit for their first adventures with our favourite Disney characters. Soft and cosy treat baby to this special edition Disney x PO.P Chip ‘n’ Dale babygrow. From £24 - Ages 0 - 1

Made from soft brush-back cotton, this polka dot kid’s sweatshirt is extra cosy for games at the park. Plus, the rib-knit hem and cuffs lock in the snugness – so there’s no need to stop play. From £28 - Ages 1 - 6

Just in time for the festive season and the perfect Christmas Day morning, are the new limited-edition Disney collection PJ’s.The range features some more of your favourite Disney characters beautifully captured on Polarn’s much loved, super soft, organic PJs. This season will see the return of Mowgli and Baloo, as well as some new designs from adorned classics Peter Pan, Lady and the Tramp and even Goofy. From £22 Ages 1 - 12

In a relaxed swing shape with Scandi florals and frilled shoulders, our twirl dress is a winner for every day. Made in softest GOTS organic cotton with cosy long sleeves it looks and feels special for every occasion. From: £30 Ages 1 - 12

These GOTS organic cotton kid’s leggings are ready for anything, from back garden races to tree climbing.

The stretchy fabric keeps you comfortable however action-packed the day gets.

Team with our coordinating top for head-to-toe fun.

From 22 - Ages 1 - 8

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www.polarnopyret.co.uk

FASHION FOCUS

CHILDSPLAY CLOTHING LAUNCH THEIR NEW CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND SHOP AND LUXURY GIFT GUIDE WITH MINI CELEB FILLED PROMO. ‘Tis the season of magical campaigns and none more so than this seasonal offering from Childsplay Clothing. The Christmas Wonderland shop is officially open featuring a selection of amazing festive designer outfits, stylish stocking fillers and inspirational gifting ideas from luxurious brands such as Gucci, Fendi, Burberry, Moncler and many more.

The trees are decorated, sleigh bells are ringing, and magic is in the air. Christmas is a time of wonder and excitement for children and the world’s leading retailer of kids’ designer clothing believe they should be celebrated this festive season.

Having worked alongside famous names such as the Kardashians, DJ Khaled, Paul Pogba and countless others, the Christmas Wonderland campaign features the next generation of stars and fashionista influencers.

Zion Ayo, son of renowned Afrobeats singer, Wizkid, shone in a stylish blue Balenciaga tracksuit as he played in the snow on set.

Television personality, Anthony Middleton’s daughter, Priseis stunned in a beautiful red dress from Gucci, complimented with a heritage check Burberry headband. River, daughter of former TOWIE star, Jake Hall and reality TV star and model, Misse Beqiri, modelled a chic, navy coat by Miranda, a contemporary Dolce and Gabbana bum bag, cool Gucci socks and eye-catching, silver laminated boots from Emporio Armani. The children were full of happiness and joy as they played on the set featuring sparkly gold confetti and frosted Christmas trees, feeling the spirit of the season. Rounding off the mini style squad, was social media starlet, Kyla Klarke who was dressed in a gorgeous

cashmere coverall and matching bunny beanie from Fendi, before switching into an ivory cotton T-shirt and festive red leggings from Moschino, finished with a statement leopard print, faux fur coat by Monnalisa.

Follow Childsplay Clothing for the latest updates and watch the full campaign video on social media, along with a special countdown to Christmas with an interactive advent calendar. Shop the shoot with the Christmas Wonderland shop and dedicated Christmas Gift Edit featuring hundreds of items from your favourite designer brands, hand-picked by a team of expert stylists.

Give your family the gift of love, this Christmas… it truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

The Christmas Wonderland Shop is now open exclusively at childsplayclothing.co.uk

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FASHION FOCUS

CHILDREN’S FASHION BOUTIQUE

Lazy Baby | Can’t Ski/Snowboard Yet Baby T-Shirt Collection Sustainably sourced and screen printed in Devon, the 100% fairly trade organic brushed cotton long sleeved t-shirts are soft against little one’s skin and perfect for layering during the colder weather.

RRP: £22.00 available from www.lazybaby.co.uk/

A great alternative to slippers on Christmas morning, the truly whimsical range of Mini shoes from Poco Nido are quirky and colourful whilst being supportive for tiny toes.

Poco Nido | AW20 Printed Mini Shoes RRP: £19.00 available from https://poconido.com/ Kit & Kin hat and blanket bundle The chunky knit hat and blanket bundle from Kit & Kin is the perfect gift for babies this festive season. Breathable and durable, the soft cotton hat features the most adorable bunny ears for extra cuteness and handmade side ties for added practicality, while the luxurious blanket is super snuggly on baby’s delicate skin. Made from sustainable 100% organic cotton, it is an essential for snuggles around the tree this Christmas! RRP: £50.99 | Available from https://kitandkin.com

Make Baby’s first Christmas a magic one with Magnet Mouse’s range of gorgeous babywear that is completely free from fiddly poppers and buttons - a present any parent will be thankful for!

The range is lovingly made in the UK, with styles inspired by our British heritage – classic, timeless babywear with a magic twist – what more could you want for your little Elf? Available from birth to 12 months RRP: From £24.95 https://magnetmouse.co.uk/

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The Love To Dream 2.5 Sleep SUIT is perfect for keeping comfy and warm during any festive playtimes and bedtimes alike!

Ideal for keeping kids cosy as they dash about the house on festive early mornings, the loose fitting, 2.5 tog fabric, enables little ones to move freely whilst the built-in quilted blanket eliminates the need for loose layers during sleep too.

Love To Dream | Sleep Suit 2.5 Tog RRP: £45.99 Available from https://www.lovetodream.co.uk

FASHION FOCUS

www.dior.com

New-born gift set consisting of pyjamas, bib and bonnet in cotton satin with ‘Toile de Jouy’ print and white cotton interlock and ‘Dior Oblique’ embroidery - available in pink, blue and gray.

£400

Pyjamas topped with an embroidered blouse featuring one of Dior’s most emblematic patterns, cannage.

£290

“Lucky Stars” Gift Set consisting of pajamas and a hat in “Chance” print cotton jersey. Cotton jersey is an extremely soft, supple and stretchy fabric.

£270

“Over the past 50 years, Dior has drawn on all its expertise to delight young parents and elegantly celebrate the arrival of their newborns through exquisite and welcoming Baby Dior collections.

See all of Dior’s expertise in our gift selection. Whether traditional or modern, make life’s biggest moments all the more special with the perfect gift!”

Rabbit or Teddy Soft Toy - Cotton Satin with Toile de Jouy Print - available in grey, pink and blue

£270

Gray cotton fleece and cashmere all-inone with ‘Je t’adior’ and ivory stars inlay, with contrasting ivory finish

“Teddy Bear” Set with a bath towel, a pair of slippers and comfort blanket, all adorned with Baby Dior’s cute teddy bear head in faux fur.

£790

Gray cotton fleece and cashmere bonnet with ‘Je t’adior’ and ivory stars inlay, with contrasting ivory finish.

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£380

£125

FASHION FOCUS

FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT: WWW.SERAPHINE.COM

Steel Blue Maternity & Nursing Loungewear Set - From £49.00

Powder Blue Maternity & Nursing Hoodie - From £42.00

Black Eco-Down 3 in 1 Winter Maternity Coat - From £159.00

Faux Leather Panel Maternity Leggings - From £45.00

Loungewear Maternity Jumpsuit - From £45.00

Slate 3 in 1 Winter Maternity Parka - From £149.00

Men’s Hoodie with Baby Pouch - From £69.00

Mama & Mini Sweatshirts From £59.00

Personalised Duchess Necklace Bor or Girl - From £149.00 Brown Breastfeeding Cover Maternity Shawl - From £35.00

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Seraphine Oxford Canvas & Leather Baby Changing Bag From £99.00

FASHION FOCUS

.co.uk

Monsoon Baby Boys Bear Dungaree and T-shirt - Blue - £28 Dorothy Perkins Maternity 3/4 Sleeve Ballet Wrap Top - Blush - £16

Dorothy Perkins Maternity Overbump Leggings Grey - £12

Ralph Lauren Baby Boys Classic Cable Knit Jumper Grey - £70 Monsoon Baby Girls Christmas Reindeer Sweat Disco Dress - Pink - From £30 64

V by Very Baby Unisex Christmas Penguin 4 Piece Set - Multi From £16

FEATURE

It all began in Cheshire for Guy & Abi Fennell…

More and more of our friends were starting families and we noticed the staggering amount of baby wipes around their homes – the kitchen, the lounge, even the dog basket!

Pura Hand Sanitiser (12 x 100ml bottles) pack, with a free pack of 24 Pura hand wipes. Kills 99.9% of all germs & bacteria for safe protection against spread of viruses.

Dermatologically tested to ensure safe use on skin. No soap. No water. No singing “Happy Birthday”. Twice. Stay safe on the go. - £17.88 (One time purchase)

Looking into it, we discovered that 90% of the wipes in the UK contain plastic! Combined with disposable nappies that can take 500 years to decompose, it made us realise… we’re damaging our children’s world with the very essentials we’re using to look after them.

And so, Pura was born...

Affordable, eco-friendly baby products that help people to take care of the planet, just by taking care of their family.

Now we’re parents ourselves – to our baby boy, Ezra. And we’re working to leave a legacy for him and children everywhere, by changing the way we all look after their planet.

Pura is going even further in its mission to reduce the environmental impact of disposable nappies, by working with the UK’s only nappy recycling company – NappiCycle - to keep disposable nappies out of landfill and turn them into useful products like notice boards for schools and offices, panelling, and insulation.

High performance, low impact nappies, approved by dermatologists to be gentle on newborn skin. With a wetness indicator so you know when a change is needed.

Size 1 nappies are £21.12 (one time purchase for 132 nappies)

In the last year alone, NappiCycle diverted more than 8,000 tonnes – the equivalent of 40 million nappies - from landfill in Wales and it’s Pura’s ambition to make nappy recycling the norm across the whole of the UK. It is already in discussions with local authorities in England about piloting the scheme.

For more information, please contact: Website: https://mypura.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypura/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mypura Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyPura/

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At last, a wipe that can clean up their mess without making one for the planet. Pura wipes are made from biodegradable plant fibres and so are 100% plastic-free and 100% biodegradable. The packaging is completely recyclable too. 10 x 70 packs of 100% plastic-free, 100% biodegradable and 100% compostable baby wipes. £22.80 (one time purchase for 10 packs of 70 wipes)

www.pacapod.com

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THE CHRISTMAS ADVENT CALENDAR GIVEAWAY

WIN

...... in our Advent Calendar Giveaway!

All entries must be in my midnight for your chance to win. Full details on Editors Page, page 3.

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TRAVEL GUIDE

At One With Nature WHAT TO EXPECT

Sitting on top of a spectacular 100 ft rock face with the swirling Palala River below, Noka Camp encourages complete tranquility with uncompromised luxury. Noka Camp is nestled in the heart of the malaria free Lapalala Game Reserve and offers an exquisite base from which to explore the 50,000 hectares of pure African wilderness.

The Lepogo Lodges Carbon Offset Programme neutralizes every guests’ carbon footprint from the moment they leave their homes until their arrival at our lodge and back again.

Vast, remote and serene, the Lapalala Wilderness awakens the senses with its deep valleys and spectacular cliffs echoing to the sound of tumbling streams. From crystal clear rock pools to wide open plains, this is an area rich in an abundant array of wildlife and largely untouched by man.

Lepogo Lodges consists of 2 separate lodges, both of which can be booked in their entirety.

Noka Camp is the first to open and will sleep 12. Melote House will be an exclusive use house, sleeping up to 16 and will open in 2021.

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CLIMATE

Winter During the winter months of May to September you will find the best wildlife viewing. The vegetation thins out during this dry season and even more animals wil be congregating around the water holes

Summer The summer season from October to April brings lush green landscapes and much warmer temperatures. This is the season to experience the multitude o newborn animals and migrating birds

o e g ll s.

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South Africa ACCOMMODATION

EXPERIENCES

When it’s time for nightime to fall you get to bring the wonders of the night sky into your own room, totally immersing you in the romance of the incredible African night skies.

The walks are designed to be informative and interactive yet with safety of paramount importance. Walks can be tailored to be a gentle educational stroll or a more energetic hike taking in the staggering plains and gorges.

Each room has its own heated plunge pool built into the platform on top of the cliff, there aren’t many pools that will offer such a view. This takes the infinity pool concept to a new level.

Game Drives Experienced guides will take you out for morning, afternoon or even all day game drives to explore the vast expanse of the Lapalala Wilderness at your leisure. With no fixed routines and fine dining surprises Enjoy the breathtaking views and throughout, our guests will leave with spectacular sunsets from the luxury unforgettable memories of a magical stay. of a sunken bath. The bathrooms are designed to incorporate the Bush Walks great outdoors and truly allow you Guides will lead the more adventurous to soak up the natural environment. guests through the landscape on foot.

DINING

Lepogo Lodges’ world-class chefs, headed by the Heston Blumenthaltrained Thapelo Letsogo, will ensure families can relax and recharge with an unparalleled dining experience.

African-Asian fusion cuisine takes inspiration from the Asian cooking styles found along the Spice route of the African coast and is made with locally-sourced and grown ingredients, alongside homemade honey, beer and gin, made onsite at Lepogo.

WHAT TO PACK!

Pack light and focus on warmth and comfort. Early morning game drives can be chilly so go prepared. We do recommend you avoid fluorescent and very bright colours. Please bear in mind that packing is best done in a soft bag with a 20kg limit.

Water Safaris Explore the variety and abundance of birdlife from the water itself. Guides will take you along beautiful shorelines while fish eagle call from above. Watch as kingfishers prey on small fish and heron stand like statues amongst the reeds.

Bush Camping If you are staying for several nights, you may want to spend one of those under the stars on one of the original sites of the Lapalala forebearers. With a clear sky above and the crackle of an open fire to keep you warm there is no Flights depart from London Heathrow and other better way to immerse yourself in the UK airports. Direct flights are approximately 11 wilderness just as they did 100 years ago. hours long.

HOW TO GET THERE

Yoga, Spa & Wellbeing Relax on our yoga deck with meditative views across the landscape. Surrounded by the calm solitude of the wilderness enjoy an engaging open air yoga class or the tranquillity of a variety of treatments either at the retreat or in the privacy of your own room.

Nightly rates at Lepogo Lodges start from R16,500 (£774*) per person, per night for a Luxury Clifftop Villa on an all-inclusive board basis, for stays booked to travel before December 2020.

For more information or to make a reservation: visit www.lepogolodges.com email info@lepogolodges.com *Price in pound sterling accurate according to today’s exchange rate.

Essentials: Passport, visas, vaccination certificate, airline tickets, credit card, money, Day pack or small carry on bag, Binoculars, Camera and memory cards!, Hat for sun protection, Sunglasses, Insect repellent, Sunscreen & unscented moisturizing lotion, Lip balm 75

TRAVEL GUIDE

Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill Launches Brand New Family Package: Mini Marylebone The Hilton Regency London - The Churchill, a stunning five-star Marylebone hotel has launched a new family-friendly room category and activities for all ages!

Following its reopening on 7th September, five-star luxury hotel, Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill, is launching a brand new family package: Mini Marylebone. With staycations on the rise, the hotel is inviting families to return to London this Autumn and Winter season to explore the capital together, with newly designed rooms and suites that are perfect for families, alongside new offerings and activities tailored for all ages, which will entice guests both new and returning.

a separate living area, and a workspace. The Churchill-inspired design gives families a home-from-home during their stay, and in-room Apple TVs and Staycast technology means parents and kids can enjoy their favourite series and stream their accounts easily and seamlessly throughout their stay.

Children will be greeted with an adorable Jock toy on arrival, a replica of Winston Churchill’s own beloved cat, and something to take home with them as a memento of a fun-filled stay in London. Once families have settled in, the hotel concierge will be on hand to open the doors to many of the top family attractions just walking distance from the hotel, including Madame Tussauds, Hyde Park, or perhaps a specialist family friendly Blue Badge Tour hosted by Mark Conroy, author of three children’s travel and adventure books and renowned guide.

All of these can be arranged and booked through the hotel, making planning an activity-packed few days easy and fuss-free.

As the afternoon comes to a close, parents and kids alike can enjoy a

Available for stays booked in the brand new stylishly designed TwoBedroom Garden View Suite or Family Room Garden View, both of which were created during the hotel’s closure with families in mind, Mini Marylebone offers families a chance to experience the best that London has to offer from a central base. Recognising the growing demand for staycations, Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill, which is based just a stone’s throw from Marylebone and Paddington train stations, designed the package with fun, convenience, and family bonding in mind.

Whilst enjoying a Central London location, the hotel’s position tucked away on Portman Square means it is a quiet and tranquil spot, surrounded by parks and allowing for a peaceful night’s sleep. In the Family Room Garden View, guests will wake up to views of Portman Square Garden opposite the hotel, and will enjoy a light-filled space, comprising one King connecting to two Twin Beds. The room also boasts two bathrooms and ample space, making it a perfect base for families of four. For larger families or those wanting some extra space to relax, play, and spend time together, the Two-Bedroom Garden View Suite can accommodate up to five people across two bedrooms,

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pre-dinner drink, toasting together with the newly launched ‘Mummy & Me’ Mocktail and Cocktail menu. Whichever cocktail parents’ choose, the award-winning team at the Promenade will ensure children don’t feel left out of the fun. Or, for those more independent little ones, the bar has a full mocktail menu to choose from, including Blueberry & Rosehip Sling, Ginger Lemonade and Allspice Sour. As well as their delicious cocktails, families will be kept entertained by the Churchill memorabilia scattered throughout the property - old photographs and letters that will fascinate budding historians line the walls, and guests can even toast their drinks and snap a photo with Churchill himself outside on the terrace thanks to the seated statue of the famous Prime Minister. If parents want to make a date night of it, Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill will arrange a complimentary babysitting session for the kids, meaning parents don’t need to worry and can enjoy a few extra cocktails at their leisure.

Children will be kept occupied for hours with the brand new Churchill Toybox, filled to the brim with toys and games, and the Churchill Activity Book filled with fun and challenging puzzles. Or, for older kids and teenagers, consoles can be requested for an evening of gaming.

Whether families are culture lovers, or budding athletes, Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill offers activities to suit everyone.

The hotel’s exclusive access to the Portman Square tennis courts opposite the hotel means families can get their fitness fix in with a game or two. For lovers of art and culture, no visit to Marylebone is complete without a wander down the historic streets of the

neighbourhood and a stop off at the Wallace Collection, who are catering to families with a range of offerings that bring the artwork to life, including The Magic Horn, an interactive app that truly immerses children in the collection.

The Mini Marylebone is available for stays from 5th October 2020 onwards and is priced at £550 in Family Room or £800 in TwoBedroom Garden View Suite including: • • • • • • • • • •

One night accommodation including breakfast ‘Mummy & me’ mocktail and cocktail pairing menu (4 cocktails/ mocktails included) One babysitting session Activity Book Access to the Churchill Toybox ‘Jock’ toy to welcome you on arrival Access to local family activities at Wallace Collection Concierge guidance on best family attractions in the area Baby/child amenities & products in-room Available on request: cots, bottle warmer, baby monitor, baby bath tub, high chairs

To make a reservation, please email lonch-rfp@hyatt.com.

For further information, please visit: hyattregencylondon.com

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TRAVEL GUIDE

Celebrate a white Christmas at Courmayeur Mont Blanc with plenty of events and activities to keep adults and children alike entertained. Superb shopping, world-class restaurants and bars, a fantastic choice of accommodation for all budgets, a vibrant après-ski scene and excellent snow sports facilities make Courmayeur a stand-out destination throughout the winter, but Christmas is a particularly magical time to visit. Whether they’re looking to challenge themselves on the slopes, kick back and relax to the backdrop of Mont Blanc, or meet Courmayeur’s very own Santa Claus - Rhémy de Noël - there truly is something for everyone.

time with the giant, and finally snow started to fall upon Courmayeur again. Since then, every year Rhémy has moved down to the valley on December 24th to bring presents to the children who light up a lantern to show him the way to the village.

Courmayeur Mont Blanc - Situated on the Italian side of Mont Blanc (the sunnier side!), Courmayeur Mont Blanc is a traditional yet sophisticated resort, full of history and charm and surrounded by spectacular scenery. The centre of the village is car-free, offering superb shopping, world-class restaurants and bars, a fantastic choice of accommodation for all budgets and a fabulous après-ski On December 24th, Courmayeur celebrates “its own” scene. The resort offers excellent snow sports facilities, Santa Claus, Rhémy de Noël, a local traditional folk poetic as well as a huge range of non-ski related activities figure. Kids from all over send their letters or leave them available. in a special postbox located in Abbé Henry square; a group of volunteers answers each and every one of them. Courmayeur is the epitome of Alpine resort. In winter, in just a few minutes, the cableways carry people to a ski Rhémy de Noël was a chimney sweep who was born on area with more than 100 km between on and off-piste, Christmas day. Rhémy embarked on a hike through the with 33 ski slopes at different heights, such as the Arp Mont Blanc glaciers to find out why it hadn’t snowed ski run, that makes it possible to ski at 2,755 meters of in the village that Christmas Eve. Once he reached the altitude. Eighteen ski lifts, evocative surroundings and summit, he discovered that all of the snow had been artificial snow that covers more than 70% of the area, caught by a lonely giant. Rhémy decided to spend some guaranteeing snow for the whole season.

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italy Accommodation: If you are looking for your accommodation, explore the many opportunities that Courmayeur Mont Blanc offers: hotels with a typical mountain style, of all categories, Bed & Breakfast, guest houses, apartments, campsites for outdoor lovers, alpine huts.

Discover the many easy ways to get to the summit of skiing entertainment!

Here is how to get to Courmayeur Mont Blanc Cableway:

BY CAR From Italy, the main routes are the local road Strada Statale 26 della Valle d’Aosta and the highway A5 Turin-AostaCourmayeur. For those who come from France, Switzerland and Northern Europe we advise to go through the Mont Blanc tunnel or Gran Saint Bernard Tunnel.

BY BUS In Courmayeur there is a local public bus service that connects the city of Aosta, the Mont Blanc valley and the major cities in North Italy. For info: www.savda.it

BY PLANE The national airport of Torino Caselle is located 150 km from Courmayeur. Alternatively, it is possible to fly to the international Airport of Milan Malpensa (212 km), of Milan Linate (235 km) or Geneva (106 km).

BY TRAIN The railway line is Chivasso - Aosta.

Info: www.trenitalia.com / www.savda.it For more information, please contact: Website: https://www.courmayeurmontblanc.it/en Call: +39 0165 841612 Email: info@courmayeurblanc.it 79

HEALTH & WELLBEING

The Viewing Precipice: Covid-19 accelerates On Demand viewing across Europe

Leading specialist kids, youth and family research agency, Giraffe Insights, have conducted a ground-breaking international study into family viewing, operating across 9 European markets and surveying over 3,500 families.

The study found that Covid-19 has been significant in accelerating existing trends towards digitalisation. Over half of all kids, across all 9 markets, now regularly access video content online (56%) and via on-demand services (56%). Kids in major European markets including the UK, Netherlands, Germany and the Czech Republic are now more likely to watch a video on demand or online, than on live TV. The UK is the closest to a totally digital future with two thirds of kids watching video content via on demand services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney + and over half also watching content through online platforms such as YouTube. This contrasted with the fact that less than half of UK kids said they had watched content live on the TV channel in the week prior to this research being conducted.

In markets such as the Czech Republic, online viewing is booming, with almost two thirds of kids viewing online video content. Even in more traditionally linear dominant markets such as Poland and Italy, online videos now make up a significant proportion of their weekly content intake.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom for non-digital channels with TV still being king for inspiration. TV adverts and shows are still kids’ top source of inspiration across Europe for Christmas gifts (48%), surpassing YouTube ads/videos (37%), shops (35%), friends (29%) and online searches (24%).

Maxine Fox, Managing Director at Giraffe Insights, commented: “This exciting piece of research comes at a time where brands need to understand and respond to the changing environment and the impact this is having on consumer behaviour across the globe. Whilst this study highlights the acceleration in kids digital viewing across Europe, it also acts to remind us that not everything is changing, with live TV still king for inspiration. We have been tracking behaviours among kids and parents throughout this period to be able to provide our clients with strategic insights not currently available anywhere else.”

This research was conducted with 3,500 kids and parents across 9 markets - UK, Germany, France, Poland, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands and Czechia.

For more information about this research and our expertise please contact: maxine.fox@giraffeinsights.co.uk

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