Rascals of London Summer Edition

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BEAUTIFULLY FORMED

www.icandyworld.com

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WELCOME

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Competition

Win a CosattoOoba Pushchair + Car Seat The Cosatto Ooba is fun and stylish, yet incredibly functional with its 3-in-1 travel mode system. The Ooba features a lightweight aluminium chassis with compact fold, complete suspension system, quick release removable wheels, lockable front swivel wheels and a spacious shopping basket.

When used in pushchair mode, the Ooba is suitable from 6 months and provides dual facing seat positions with multi position adjustable recline.

The pushchair mode also features multi position adjustable calf support, removable bumper bar, 5 point safety harness and includes cosy toes with zip off reversible liner.

To be in with a chance of winning simply email us at: info@rascalsoflondon.co.uk with details of your perfect day

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WELCOME

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Contents

52 What’s

inside

The best bits 12 Help I’m Having a Baby Finding help that best suits you.

17 The Second Time Around Tackling the problem of secondary infertility.

Summer Recipes

20 Beautiful Bedroom Interiors

on page

57

Release the inner designer in you.

34 Summer Fashion 2015 A selection of Summer clothing for all children.

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66

More best bits 43 10 Castles every Rascal should Visit Now who’s the King or Queen of the castle.

49 Biting Back!

What to do when toddlers bite.

57 Delicious Recipes from Annabel Karmel Kitchen fun with the Queen of cooking.

61 Love Reading

20

New picture books guaranteed to make children excited for story time.

66 Timeless Toys Traditional doesn’t mean boring.

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WELCOME

From the Edito r

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Editors Notes

Hello

Natasha Hewett

I always look forward to creating our Summer edition and this year has been no exception as there is so much happening in London over the next few months.

Trying to work and keep an 8 year old happy during the holidays is no easy task, you need patience, a very healthy bank balance and a masters degree in time management, unfortunately I have none of the above. We have enjoyed ourselves so far though, we have attended lots of events and we embarked on a short camping trip where we managed to find two of the rainiest days in July, fun!

Editor-in-chief

Rebecca Harding Assistant Editor

Emma Pailing Copywriter

Emma Reily-James Sales Consultant

When I was young I absolutely loved visiting Castles and old ruins, playing games and learning about the fascinating history they have to offer. Take a look at our ‘Top 10 Castles every rascal should visit’ on page 43 and start planning your adventure.

Also in this edition we have a great article entitled; ‘What you’re 4 year old should know?’ written by www.mybaba.com (page 52), which we hope will put your mind at rest before your child starts school, a great review section on page 8, and to release the interior designer in you we have a lovely section on Beautiful Bedroom Interiors (page 20).

As always, Rascals of London is designed for parents by parents, so we are always delighted to hear from you. Whether you have an experience to share or you’d like to tell us your top parenting tips, we will always do our best to pass your tips on to our readers. Simply get in touch.

Don’t forget, Rascals of London is also available online as an easy-to-read magazine.

Download you’re copy at www.rascalsoflondon.co.uk. Alternatively, you can “Like” us on Facebook and “Tweet” with us on Twitter, or why not do all three?

Happy reading. See you in the Autumn.

Natasha Natasha Hewett, Editor-in-chief

Paul Palmer Webmaster

Gavin Bridle Art Direction

Advertising with us: Email: emma@rascalsoflondon.co.uk Tel: 07514 852 648

General Enquiries: Email: info@rascalsoflondon.co.uk

With many thanks to our contributors: Mini Rodini, Mary Ashton, Natasha Wiening Photography, Gambado, Diddi Dance, Maria from Eddie Catz, Kathryn Mewes, Annabel Karmel, Sarah Rose, La Chouette School & all our advertisers.

No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, without the express permission of the editor. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.

Timeless Toys Page 66

Pull Along Cow

The opinions expressed within Rascals of London magazine are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

Price: £14.99

Rascals of London is printed by Wyndeham Group.

Activity Cube Price: £43.99

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www.rascalsoflondon.co.uk

WELCOME

8

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Contents

34

43 All the rest 8

Rascals Reviews All the latest product reviews.

14

Baby Products Products every new mum should have.

27

Is Breast Always Best Our resident maternity expert Mary Ashton gives her opinions.

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49

Cord Blood Collection A frozen asset for your baby and your family.

33

Baby Talk Why chattering away to your baby is even better for them than reading.

41

Giving your Child the Best Start in Life

70

What a 4 Year Old Should Know Does your child know everything they should before starting school, and more importantly, does it really matter?

56

74

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Top 7 Family Holiday Destinations Summer getaways for the whole family.

78

Clubs & Classes Find a club or class near you.

82

What’s On When Our guide to keeping the whole family entertained

Q & A with Dr Julie Goldstein Questions and answers with our resident Psychologist

Cool Kids Go Back to School How to dress em, prep em and more.

What is the ideal age for my child to start learning a second language?.

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Directory & Services Rascals of London l August 2015 - 7

Family

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Reviews

Editors Pick

Egg Pushchair Price: £699.99 www.mothercare.com Designed for style concious parents and babies, the Egg pushchair features soft touch fabrics and smooth curves for a luxury stylish look.

Fendi Brown Baby Changing Bag Price: £904.00 - www.childrensalon.com Fendi brown baby changing bag and mat set with an all-over ‘FF’ logo print. There is a main inside pocket, a side and two pouch pockets and an elasticated bottle holder.

Rascals Reviews MAM Microwave Steam Steriliser Price: £30.00 www.kiddicare.com

The innovative Mam Microwave Steam Steriliser is the ideal support for everyday baby life and makes a perfect design statement in the kitchen.

Tripp Trapp Chair The Tripp Trapp® is an ingenious highchair that revolutionised the children’s chair category back in 1972 when it was first launched. It is designed to fit right up to your dining table, bringing your baby into the heart of your family, allowing him or her to learn and develop alongside you.

Price: £159.00 www.stokke.com

Medela Swing Breast Pump Express milk quietly and discreetly - The Swing electric Breast pump combines a multi-award-winning design with the latest technology. The electric breast pump is very quiet and therefore represents the ideal solution for regular and discreet breast pumping.

Price: £129.99 www.medela.com

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Reviews

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By Carla My Essential Pregnancy Support Pack Price: £39.95 www.preciouslittleone.com This combination support pack provides stylish comfort and support for your back, bump and knees. ideal for use for mumsto-be whilst sleeping or relaxing.

BabyBjorn One Carrier Price: £119.99 www.babybjorn.co.uk

Inspired by fun-filled summer days and the delicious coolness of ice creams on a hot summer day. The One Carrier provides babies with ergonomically correct support and can be used up to the age of three.

Tranquil Turtle Despite its dozy demeanor, Tranquil Turtle is actually working double-time.

It’s our first product to combine both sight and sound features - projecting gentle underwater images and playing the soothing sounds of the sea.

This comforting combination makes for a super serene sleep space.

Cupcake Nursing Bra This lace and microfibre bra will definitely give you a lift (in more ways than one!). It’s silky soft microfibre with pretty (stretchy!) graphic lace and soft cotton lining and covered seams offer total comfort for sensitive skin and sore, chapped nipples.

Price: £45.95 www.cloudb.com

Editors Pick

Price: £35.00 www.amoralia.com

SnuzPod 3 in 1 Bedside Crib Price: £169.00 www.thelittlegreensheep.co.uk Nothing compares with being close to your baby. The award-winning SnüzPod Bedside Crib™ allows you to easily comfort, settle and feed your baby without having to leave your bed, helping build a close bond and ensure both you and your baby have the very best night’s sleep.

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Reviews

Zita West Vitafem

Weleda Stretch Mark Massage Oil

Price: £22.50 www.zitawest.com Many factors influence your chances of conception, including age, general health and stress levels, as well as sperm and egg quality. The more you are in balance in mind, body and spirit, the greater your chance of conception and the healthier your baby is likely to be.

Price: £15.95 www.weleda.co.uk

Stretch Mark Massage Oil smooths the skin, avoiding the development of stretch marks on the stomach, thighs, bottom and breasts.

Classic floral breastfeeding cushion Price: £45.00 www.thrupennybits.co.uk Ideal to travel with this breastfeeding cushion has afully lined outer bag with a hard wearing, lovely grey,pink and blue floral fabric on one side and a softblue needle corduroy on the other.

Signature Edition Chestnut Tweed Urbo² Pushchair Price: £539.00 www.mamasandpapas.com

My Carry Potty

Narrow and nippy, with a compact frame for smart city steering.

Inspired by traditional tweed fabrics, with brown and copper touches, for a long-lasting, vintage look. The Signature Edition Urbo² is all about traditional textures.

Price: £19.99 www.mycarrypotty.com My Carry Potty is one of the easiest ways to introduce your toddler to potty training and now it’s been redesigned to make it even better!

Papoozle Baby Carrier

The unique combination of a stretchy fabric upper attached to a padded structured waistband provides unbeatable comfort for you and your baby.

It can be worn for hours at a time, giving you lots of snuggles and hands free parenting without the backache. www.papoozle.com

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Pregnancy

HELP!

I’m Having a Baby

By Mary Ashton, Our Resident Maternity Expert

A

re you expecting a baby and thinking about getting some help. Your friends all rave about whatever kind of help they had, Maternity Nurse, Night Nurse, Doula etc and you are so confused you don’t know what to do. Let me try and help break down the choices you have and how to find the perfect person for you.

For help immediately after you have your baby you have some different options: Maternity Nurse - A maternity nurse will work 24 hours a day generally 5 or 6 days a week. They will take a break in the day for a couple of hours so they can catch up on some sleep as they will be up in the night with the baby regardless of how you are feeding. During the night if you are breast feeding the maternity nurse will be up in the night with you and help you to latch the baby on and make sure the feeding is going well. Then after the feed they will take the baby and resettle them

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allowing you to get back to bed quickly.

If you are bottle feeding the maternity nurse will get up and feed the baby and resettle them enabling you to get a good nights sleep.

A maternity nurse will be able to help you learn all the aspects of caring for your new baby, and give you much need reassurance and confidence when dealing with your new baby especially if it is your first.

Maternity nurses are self employed and responsible for their own tax and national insurance so you will pay them a gross wage and not be liable to pay anything

else. Depending on the maternity nurse's experience (less experienced maternity nurses can be referred to as a maternity nanny) you can expect to pay between £130-180 for a single baby, £180-220 for twins and £200+ for triplets. You may be recommended a maternity nurse from a friend or you may need to either advertise your job online on a website such as www.childcare.co.uk or www. nannyjob.co.uk or go through an agency who should be able to provide you with several CV's of maternity nurses who may be right for you.

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The thought of having someone living in your house and being around for such a huge amount of time can be an intimidating so I would advise you to interview more than one nurse even if you think you have found the right person for you - meeting the wrong person can help you to sort out in your mind exactly what it is you are looking for.

My clients say that they knew very quickly after meeting me that I was the right maternity nurse for them.

Pregnancy

after you have returned from hospital.

They will provide you with support and help with light housework. They charge between £10-20 pr hour plus mileage costs and they may have a minimum number of hours required per visit. For more information or to find a Doula got to www.doula.org.uk Mother's Help - A mother's help is usually unqualified but with some experience of looking after children (with siblings or through babysitting). They will help, generally on a part-time basis, around the house with housework and may after time be able to take the children sole-charge.

This kind of help may be beneficial if you are not having your first baby and just feel you need an extra pair of hands around the house. You can expect to pay around £150-300 net for 35+ hours a week. To find a mother's help use the website's above or contact a nanny agency.

Au Pair - An au pair will help you to look after your older children but as a general rule should not be left in sole charge of children under the age of two unless she has specific experience of this. This could

be useful if you have older children and know what you are doing with your baby and just need some help with school runs and light housework. Au pairs live in your home and receive pocket money on average between £75 - 80 per week. They should be working no more than 30 hrs per week and this includes any babysitting.

Whilst with you your au pair should be attending a language school to improve their english. There are several au pair websites that will tell you all you need to know about getting an au pair but a good place to start would be www.bapaa.org.uk the British Au Pair Agencies Association website.

If you are looking for help with your impending arrival good luck and trust your instincts.

By Mary Ashton, Our Resident Maternity Nurse www.mary-ashton.com www.facebook.com/maryashton maternitynurse?fref=ts witter.com/MatNurseMary

Night Nurse/Night Nanny - A night nurse will come to you from the beginning if you wish and can do between 1 and 6 nights a week depending on your needs.

They will usually arrive between 9/10pm and leave around 7am this needs to be arranged with your specific night nurse and most will be flexible with their hours.

Like maternity nurses, night nurses are also self employed so you will pay them a gross wage. Costs again depend of experience but you can expect to pay between £100-120 per night. The night nurse will look after the baby for you at night and help you to get the baby into a good and healthy sleeping/feeding routine at night. To find a night nurse use the same advice for finding a maternity nurse.

Doula - You may have heard of the name before and thought what on earth is one of those. Well there are two kinds of Doula, a birth doula and a postnatal doula. Birth Doulas charge between £350-1000 and for this you get 2 ante-natal visits, phone and email support, 4 weeks on call 24/7 for the birth, Labour and birth no time limit and 1/2 post natal visits that are 1-2 hours long.

Postnatal Doulas will come to your home

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Nipper Clippers

Babies

Trimming tiny nails can be tricky.

The Nipper Clipper helps in three ways: the safety spy hole lets you see exactly what you’re cutting, whilst our app Timmy Tickle Baby helps distract active babies. Finally, the curved S-file baby gently smoothes baby nails after clipping.

Price: £9.99 www.amazon.co.uk

The MamaMoosh Milkscarf Breastfeed on-the-go in style! The MamaMoosh Milkscarf is a stylish scarf that quickly and easily converts into a breastfeeding cover.

Made from beautifully soft jersey that’s light enough to ensure your baby doesn’t get too hot and large enough to ensure complete discretion during feeding, this is a stylish scarf one minute and a cover the next. Simply put the strap through the loop on the boning and secure by slipping the end through the hole to have instant and non-fussy privacy wherever you need it.

Price: £29.99 www.mamamoosh.co.uk

Baby

Products Every New Mum Should Have Medela Swing Beaba Babycook The Original Baby Food Maker/Steamer/Blender Beaba Babycook’s Baby Food Maker is a great compact counter top food maker that will steam, blend, warm and defrost your baby’s food – helping you to prepare fresh, healthy meals quickly and easily

Express milk quietly and discreetly - The Swing electric Breast pump combines a multi-award-winning design with the latest technology. The electric breast pump is very quiet and therefore represents the ideal solution for regular and discreet breast pumping.

Price: £89.99 www.mothercare.com

Price: £129.99 www.medela.com

Thrupenny Bits Breast Feeding Pillow The classic highly portable breast feeding cushion uses the same fabrics as its counterpart in the Ultimate range it is fully lined only it’s smaller and unlike the Ultimate range has no zipped inside pocket. I recommend this size for smaller babies or for those planning only to feed for 0 - 6 months. If you do have a baby scoring quite high on the centile I would recommend a larger cushion from my Ultimate range.

Price: £45.00 www.thrupennybits.co.uk

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Babies

Starlite Swing Fantastic new folding travel baby swing with adjustable light canopy, twinkling lightshows and MP3 jack so you can plug in your MP3 player for baby and you to enjoy!

Price: £109.00 www.mamasandpapas.co.uk

JJ Cole System 180 Changing Bag

Kiddy Evolution Pro

This bag, complete with its striking lime green interior is well designed and compact with more useful features than most baby changing bags. The System 180 Changing Bag is exceptionally spacious inside and out with plenty of handy pockets for keeping your baby items organised and personal items safe.

It’s the ideal bag for modern day parents complete with three small pockets shielded beneath the large front flap, a dedicated mobile phone pouch plus another large front zip area which has two large pockets for baby items.

The Kiddy Evolution Pro is an infant carrier that has significant and innovative design feature which offers the best ergonomic choice for a growing baby. Inspired by nature this infant carrier has been moulded to simulate the protective, simple, shape of an egg.

Price: £149.99 www.kiddy.de

Price: £54.99 www.tomy.co.uk

Bumbo Floor Seat & Play Tray Combo Pack The Bumbo Floor Seat enables your baby to maintain a sitting position on the floor, allowing you to play with, read to and feed your baby.

The Bumbo Floor Seat should not be used until your baby can support his or her head.

Price: £39.99 www.tomy.co.uk

Shnuggle The Cosy Baby Bath A beautiful and soft baby bath that is kinder to baby and keeps the water warmer for longer!

Designed and made in the UK, Shnuggle Bath mixes a beautiful contemporary design with some really useful features and is available in a choice of beautiful pastel colours.

Made from a soft-touch foam that’s gentle against baby soft skin, it features the unique Bum BumpTM to prevent baby from slipping under the water and the amazing insulating properties keep the water warm for longer, making baths enjoyable for babies and parents.

Price: £30.00 www.shnuggle.com

Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Breast Cream Lansinoh HPA® Lanolin is an ultra purified grade of lanolin, refined using a unique process to make it the world’s safest, purest lanolin. Lansinoh HPA® Lanolin Nipple Cream has been specially developed to help soothe and protect sore, cracked nipples in breast feeding mothers. www.lansinoh.co.uk

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Health

My baby has plagiocephaly…

a mother’s story

Here is a story of one of our STARband babies - Aaron, who was diagnosed with plagiocephaly (also known as ‘flat head syndrome’).

His journey to regaining a more normal head shape starts from birth, to diagnosis, searching for answers and options, then going through the STARband™ treatment - and beyond!

Aaron Ronan Riseam was born on the 8th March 2011. It was a normal delivery, but he had been engaged for approximately one month before birth. Immediately after his birth I noticed his head was an odd shape...

Initially, when I mentioned this to the nurses in hospital, I was told that this was normal and would rectify itself. As Aaron started to grow and progress, his head shape worsened.

At every appointment with the midwife and health visitor, I asked them if they thought his head shape was correct. Each time, I was told that it was caused by the way he lies, and advised to reposition his head whilst sleeping and put his toys to the opposite side he favoured.

I did this, but it made no difference at all and his head shape was getting worse. At Aaron’s 8-week check at the doctors surgery, he was diagnosed with positional plagiocephaly, with no further action required.

Researching plagio ... I googled the condition and looked for available treatment options. I came across the Steeper Clinic, who’s website was extremely informative, providing information on different types of deformity, and what the treatment entailed.

It was interesting to read some of the case studies they have on their site. These were about people like us, whose children had the same problem.

At the appointment - Aaron was 3 ½ months old. We arrived at the clinic and Kate examined Aarons head, discussed the different types of conditions and asked if it was ok to scan his head. We agreed immediately.

STARscanner™ results... The results proved what I had been saying all along – Aaron’s head shape was severe. Kate asked us if we wanted to go away and think about the treatment.

I said no and asked her to go ahead and order the STARband™ immediately. We were pencilled in for a further appointment 2 weeks later to collect the STARband™ and discuss wearing and caring for it.

At the STARband™ fitting... Aaron was now 4 months old, and I remember being quite anxious, although I knew he needed the treatment! I had a few questions I needed to ask Kate.

First, would this cause brain damage? Absolutely not was the reply. As Aaron was such a laid back and happy baby, I also wanted to know whether treatment could change his personality. Again, Kate reassured me it wouldn’t.

Wearing the STARband™ helmet ... I was scared

at first, and wondered whether I was fitting it right in order to get the correct head shape. Was I hurting my child, and would this actually work? I needn’t have worried – you can’t fit it wrongly, it’s moulded to your baby’s head. It doesn’t hurt your child, and this treatment absolutely works!

“I am just an ordinary mum who noticed a problem with her baby’s head shape.

These people listened when no-one else would.”

It took about 5 - 7 days before Aaron was wearing the helmet for 23 hours a day. It didn’t bother him at all, he played, smiled and did everything any other little boy his age would do.

Head shape progress... After just 7 weeks of wearing the helmet, I couldn’t believe the difference in head shape from when we first went to the clinic. The results were amazing! Aaron still needed to wear the STARband™ for a further 12 weeks and then we eventually said goodbye to Kate and the clinic, as his head looked perfectly normal. From start to finish of the treatment, it took 19 weeks to rectify his head shape.

Results are better and quicker the younger the baby as they grow so quickly. It takes longer with older children and treatment is only available to babies up to 18 months old.

After treatment…

I am so pleased that we opted for this treatment, and strongly recommend anyone in the same position as ourselves to at least consider it.

This has made a huge difference to Aaron’s facial appearance.

I would also strongly recommend the Steeper Clinic after my experience with them, and the support and guidance these professionals give. They genuinely care about the babies and children they treat.

I am just an ordinary mum who noticed a problem with her baby’s head shape.

These people listened when no-one else would. Now the helmet has been removed, I can’t help but to keep stroking his head and looking at how round and perfect it is!

We hope Aaron’s story inspires other parents with babies diagnosed with plagiocephaly; you do have options and there is treatment available. Aaron’s full story, along with useful information about plagiocephaly, can be found on our new website:- www.steeperclinic.com Tel: 0113 2070432 | Email: enquiries@steeperclinic.com

Steeper Clinic specialises in the treatment of plagiocephaly in babies using the exclusive STARscanner™ and STARband™. To book your free consultation at our London clinic, please quote: “RASCALS-2013”

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Home

What Could be Wrong with me?

Written by BabyCentre Medical Advisory Board

The Second Time Around Secondary Infertility What is secondary infertility?

Deciding to try for a brother or sister to your first child is an exciting step. If conceiving your first child was straight forward, it can come as a shock when you run into difficulty getting pregnant this time around. When you have trouble conceiving again, it’s called secondary infertility.

When yet another period comes along, you may start to feel dispirited and confused.

Secondary infertility is particularly hard to cope with if all your mum friends seem to be pregnant with their second babies.

Be reassured that you are not alone.

About one in seven couples encounter

infertility, and secondary infertility is actually more common than not being able to conceive at all in the first place.

Unsurprisingly, it’s more likely to affect older women, as fertility rates fall as we age.

A big step towards coping with secondary infertility is deciding when you should ask for help. Fertility specialists are there to offer advice, so don’t be embarrassed about consulting them.

More couples are seeking help with infertility than in previous years, although there will always be some who chose not to despite their yearning to have another baby.

When do we need to go to our doctor?

You may be keen to have a specific age gap between your children. So ask yourself whether you really need to start worrying yet. Remember, it takes time to conceive.

Even if you are making love every two days to three days during your cycle, it’s common to wait up to a year to become pregnant. For eight per cent of couples it may take up to two years. If you and your partner have been making love regularly for a year without using contraception and you’re still not pregnant, see your GP. Infertility is a worry for both of you, so do go as a couple.

If you’re an older couple or have a condition that’s affecting your health, early diagnosis and treatment of secondary infertility is important. In that case, you may want to see your GP sooner, rather than later.

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How can our doctor help us?

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Pregnancy

Your doctor will talk to you about what may be interfering with you conceiving, including:

Your GP may carry out some initial tests or may refer you to a fertility specialist straight away.

• An ovulation disorder caused by polycystic ovaries or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

You can have tests to check that:

• Damage to your uterus or fallopian tubes caused by endometriosis.

• You are producing eggs.

• Your partner is making enough sperm.

• Your partner’s sperm are strong and healthy enough to make the long journey to meet your eggs.

What may be wrong with me?

There are many reasons why you may be struggling to conceive. Perhaps you had an underlying problem when you conceived before that has got worse.

Or perhaps you have had an infection or an operation in the meantime that has affected your fertility.

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• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), usually as a result of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as chlamydia.

If you are an older mum, your age can affect your chances of conception. Being older also increases your chance of having a miscarriage.

Many women in their 30s and 40s have no trouble becoming pregnant. However, fertility does start to decrease from age 30 and more sharply from 35 years onwards.

If you are an older mum, the following conditions can affect your fertility:

• Blockage caused by fibroids.

• Having an underactive thyroid can affect how well you ovulate.

• Damage to fallopian tubes from a previous ectopic pregnancy.

• Diabetes can increase your risk of miscarriage.

• Previous surgery, such as caesarean section, which could have caused bands of scar tissue (uterine adhesions).

WHAT MAY BE WRONG WITH MY PARTNER? Your partner, like all men, will become less fertile as he gets older. Hormones, tubes and sperm are all vulnerable to ageing and the decline starts from about age 35.

Perhaps your difficulty conceiving is due to his shortage of healthy sperm, known as a low sperm count. Or maybe there is a problem with sperm quality. Sometimes sperm die or can’t swim in a straight line, making it impossible for them to reach your egg.

Illness, poor diet or lifestyle can all affect sperm.

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What are our chances of success?

The treatment you are offered will depend on what is causing your infertility, assuming that it can be explained.

The fact that you’ve already had a baby can be in your favour. If you decide to have IVF, for example, you’re more likely to get pregnant than a woman who hasn’t had a baby before.

What if we never find out what’s wrong?

You are likely to feel worried and upset if the fertility specialist tells you she does not know why you cannot conceive. But don’t give up.

About 15 per cent of couples with unexplained infertility conceive naturally within a year if they continue to try, and 35 per cent conceive within two years. If you are under 30 years old, you have a higher chance of conceiving than a woman aged 30 years or more, as age is the most important predictor of success in natural conception.

Sadly, some mums do find that they can’t conceive again. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s perfectly natural to grieve over the fact that you can’t have the size of family you wanted.

You may have conflicted feelings. On the one hand, the inability to have more children causes you pain. On the other hand, you are already experiencing the joys of being a parent. You may also have to cope with well-meaning questions about when you’re planning an addition to the family.

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Pregnancy

Where can I get further help?

Asking for fertility advice can be stressful. You may be surprised at how upsetting it can be to admit to yourselves and others that you have a problem and need help.

fertility aids

Vital DHA The EFS’s in Vital DHA are provided in triglyceride form for maximum bio-availability.

Supplementing with Vital DHA helps to safeguard against any dietary deficiency in both partners.

Price: £15.50 www.zitawest.com

Being under stress is not likely to make you feel like making love, especially if you’re already a parent to a small child. You’ll need good support to reduce your anxiety and help you to cope. Your GP may advise you to contact a fertility support group or you may be offered counselling.

You may also wish to contact Infertility Network UK for more information and support.

Other couples going through the same experience can be a valuable source of support.

Why not visit our community?

You can also get more advice from our main suspecting a problem area.

Eat Yourself Pregnant In this fabulous new full-colour cook-book Zita shows you 80 tasty and easy to prepare recipes that are packed full of all the most important nutrients your body needs to prepare for a successful pregnancy.

Price: £14.99 www.zitawest.com

Some parents feel guilty that they are unable to provide their child with a sibling. Be assured that having siblings is not the key to a happy and healthy childhood. Your child can benefit from many important close relationships, from friends to grandparents, as he grows.

Will changing my diet and lifestyle help?

What you eat and the way you live can make it harder to become pregnant. Perhaps you’ve put on weight since your first baby arrived. Or maybe you’ve gone the other way and lost weight? Do you or your partner smoke or drink more than you used to? Improving your diet and lifestyle may help to improve your fertility.

Pregnacare His & Her Pregnacare® His & Her Conception provides an extra value dual pack containing both Pregnacare® Conception and Wellman® Conception nutritional tablets, which have been specifically designed to support both men and women who are trying for a baby, Price: £18.35 www.vitabiotics.com

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 19

FAMILY

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Home

Beautiful

Bedroom Interiors Release the Inner Designer in you Stompa Uno 3 - Cabin Bed The Uno 3 Cabin bed is sleek and stylish. The practical pull out desk provides an important study area and is a great space saving feature.

The two cube storage units offer spacious storage, perfect for all a girl’s belongings.

Price: £699.00 www.roomtogrow.co.uk

Cars Hanging Lampshade Vroom, vroom! A lampshade that’s perfect for a boy’s bedroom!

Price: £29.00 www.vertbaudet.co.uk

20 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Mobile Library This easy to move bookshelf holds a large number of books or comic books arranged facing outwards so they’re easier to find.

Price: £55.20 www.vertbaudet.co.uk

20 Butterfly Decorations

These different butterflies will look great in your little childs room!

Price: £27.00 www.laredoute.co.uk

FAMILY

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Home

Thuka Trendy 15 Cabin Bed with Slide The Trendy 15 Cabin Bed is a fun midsleeper that will have you child sliding out of bed. With the optional play tent, tunnel and tower great adventures can be had, encouraging imaginative play. A sturdy, solid European pine bed available in a Natural pine or Whitewash finish with colour panel detailing around bed and a choice of fun tent, tunnel and tower fabrics.

Price: £332.80 www.roomtogrow.co.uk

Joseph princess carriage Bed Anne-Claire Petit Mama Teddy

This charming series of crocheted soft-toys is designed by Anne-Claire Petit whose interest in handicrafts and love of traditional craftsmanship has grown over years. Most of the detailed work is handcrocheted by women living in countryside villages of Northern China..

Young girls will feel like a real Princess going to sleep in this delightful Princess Carriage Bed by Joseph. In pretty pastel pink and lilac with a beautiful carriage design. The large wheels raising the bed give you a more authentic design. Your daughter will feel like a Royalty climbing through the carriage door via the cute little ladder.

Price: £410.00 www.sleepeazybeds.co.uk

Price: £160.00 www.conranshop.co.uk

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 21

FAMILY

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Home

Butterfly Hanging Lampshade A lampshade covered in pretty butterflies to bring colour and light to the decor!

Price: £29.00 www.vertbaudet.co.uk

Jaffy House Bunk Bed A truly unique bunk bed. Made from high quality woods, the Jaffy bunk bed will provide hours of play while creating fond childhood memories. The detail to attention cannot be missed in the play inspired bunk bed.

Price: £2,200.00 www.punkinpatch.co.uk

Mural Bedside Table Space-saving and original, this child’s mural bedside table looks just like a giraffe!

Price: £49.00 www.vertbaudet.co.uk

Sunny Safari Time Out Chair

JCB Junior Bed Frame

There will always be times that your child needs some ‘Time Out’. The fun and appealing designs are ideal to give your child a moment to become your little angel once more.

Lovely junior sized digger bed with a painted on friendly face and tractor detail, handy storage bucket and finished in yellow gloss.

Price: £52.00 www.roomtogrow.co.uk

Price: £169.99 www.bedroomworld.co.uk

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FAMILY

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Dinosaur Toddler Bed An exciting dinosaur toddler bed that will encourage your child to stay in bed and have a good night’s sleep.

Beautifully hand crafted furniture to inspire young adventurers.

Price: £225.00 www.roomtogrow.co.uk

Home

Magic Garden Table and 2 Chair Set A magical lightweight, garden flower table and garden inspired chairs. Perfect for playing, dining, socialising or just sitting. Beautifully hand crafted themed furniture to inspire young minds and bring the magic alive. Also available in Dinosaur, Transport or Princess and Frog theme.

Price: £175.00 www.huggle.co.uk

Kids Avenue Cool Wagon A cool and stylish VW style bed with built in storage from French designers Parisot. What could be more fun than cruising in a Cool Wagon bed? With under bed storage drawer and front cupboards to keep those essentials in.

Price: £598.75 www.roomtogrow.co.uk

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 23

Family

8

Mumsy Maternity Products Sanctuary Mum To Be Congratulations Collection

Price: £25.00 www.boots.com

Burt’s Bees Mama Bee belly butter

Top

24 - August March 2013 2015 l l Rascals Rascalsof of London London

2

Look Bunny

Find is the ultimate tool for discovering all the activities available to you and your children throughout the UK allowing you to make the most of your time.

3

WebMD

Dinner Spinner Available on iPhone and Android, free This app suggests dinner recipes from a range of quick meals. Select by the type of dish you require or ingredients.

4

Use your smartphone as a baby monitor when you are in another room.

iReward Chart Available on iPhone, Android, Windows Phone 7 and Kindle, £2.49 This app tracks good behaviour of your children by the criteria you set up yourself, by awarding stars.

Price: £45.00 www.nealsyardremedies.com

Parental

1

Available on iPhone and Android, £1.99

Mother & Baby Gift Box

Applications

Look Bunny

Baby Monitor & Alarm

Price: £13.99 www.debenhams.com

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7

Available on iPhone, Android and Windows Phone 7, free WebMD provides health information for your family.

It includes a symptom checker and a drugs and treatments guide.

Pregnancy for Men

My Pregnancy Today

Available on iPhone and Android, free

Available on iPhone and Android, free

5

Pregnancy for Men is a frank, factual and funny journey charting what men need to know, need to do, and need to avoid like the absolute plague when their partners are pregnant.

Nighty Night! HD Available on iPad, £1.49 A bedtime story app that lets infants put farm animals to bed and turn off the light. The short story creates an ambient atmosphere for bedtime.

This app enables you to track your pregnancy on its calendar and provides advice for each stage.

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ADVERTORIAL

Acacia Bibop Bunk Bed

Stompa Radius Midsleeper with Pull Out Desk, Chest and Cube Unit

Sweet Dreams Bedrooms are very important places for children, especially as they spend so much time in them. It is said that on average a child spends 40% of their childhood in their bed, which is not including the other time spent in their bedroom, when they are playing with friends, reading, drawing or doing their homework.

A child’s room must therefore be special – it must be their own creative space, one which reflects their individuality and personality. Room to Grow, online children’s bedroom specialists, believe that a child’s space really should give them room to develop and grow as a person, because the best bedrooms are the ones that last, and the ones they never want to leave.

As Anne Davies, Room to Grow Director, says, “We like nothing better than helping create a space that a child is proud of — where a bedroom is so much more than just a place to sleep.”

If you are unsure of where to start, the most important thing is to choose sensible colour schemes. Soft shades, pastels and neutrals are good in a nursery, and consider yellows and oranges later on as these suit both boys and girls. Allowing children to put their own stamp on their room is vital, but if they want a certain colour and you are looking to tone it down, a feature wall is a good option. “There are ranges to suit all tastes and budgets to make the most of your child’s bedroom”, says Anne, so with the help of Room to Grow, you can create a room that is tailored exactly to your child’s needs – now and for the future.

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Rascals of London l August 2015 - 25

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26 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Family

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Babies

Is Breast Always Best

By Mary Ashton, Our Resident Maternity Expert

If you’ve just started breastfeeding, you’re doing the right thing for you and your baby. But if breastfeeding doesn’t come naturally at first, don’t worry. Plenty of new mums and babies have to practise and persevere until they get the hang of it.

Is it true that breast is best?

Y

es, breast milk is the best food for your baby. It’s the healthiest way to feed her. Breast milk is a complete food. It contains at least 400 nutrients, as well as hormones and disease-fighting compounds, that aren’t present in formula milk. Its nutritional make-up even adjusts to your baby’s needs as she grows (Inch 2006).

Feeding your baby only breast milk for up to six months (exclusive breastfeeding) is particularly good for her. It can improve your baby’s cognitive development (Iacovou and Sevilla-Sanz 2010, Kramer et al 2008). So being breastfed could even make her more intelligent.

Babies who are exclusively breastfed from birth are also much less likely to be ill in their first year of life (Kramer and Kakuma 2012, Ladomenou et al 2010). Being breastfed may help your baby to fend off illnesses such as: Gastroenteritis Pneumonia and bronchiolitis Ear infections (Ip et al 2007, Kramer and Kakuma 2012, Quigley et al 2007, Unicef and DH 2010)

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 27

Family We can’t say that exclusive breastfeeding reduces the risk of children ever developing eczema (Flohr et al 2011, Kramer and Kakuma 2012, NHS Choices 2011). But babies who are breastfed for any period of time do tend to have lower rates of severe eczema than babies who were always formula-fed (Flohr et al 2011). It’s also possible that breast feeding delays when your child first develops eczema (Greer et al 2008).

Breastfeeding helps to build a special bond between you and your baby. And in the long-term, breastfeeding may help your baby to stay healthy. Studies have shown that adults who were breastfed as babies, when compared with those who were formula-fed: Had lower blood pressure, Had lower cholesterol levels, Were less likely to become obese, Were less likely to develop type 2 diabetes (Horta et al 2007, Robinson and Fall 2012).

Breastfeeding is good for you, too, and may help you to lose weight (Unicef and DH 2010). In the long term, it also helps to: lower your risk of breast cancer, protect against ovarian cancer before the menopause, reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes (Ip et al 2007)

How long will I be breastfeeding for?

The Department of Health recommends that your baby has only breastmilk for the first six months of her life. It also recommends that you carry on breastfeeding after your baby has started on solid foods, until the end of her first year and beyond, if you’d like to (WHO 2002, Unicef and DH 2010).

Continuing to breastfeed while introducing solid foods to your baby may benefit her immune system. She may also be less likely to develop health conditions such as coeliac disease (Henriksson et al 2013) and type 1 diabetes (Agostoni et al 2008).

Most mums aim to breastfeed for between three months and 12 months, and some choose to breastfeed beyond the first year (extended breastfeeding). A lot depends on your individual circumstances and how you feel about it.

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Babies

How can I prepare for breastfeeding?

Staying healthy is as much as you can do to prepare your body for breastfeeding.

But learning as much as you can about breastfeeding before your baby is born will help you when the time comes.

Read how to prepare for breastfeeding, and encourage your partner to learn about it too, so he’s ready to support you.

How do I start breastfeeding?

Feeds can take anything from five minutes to 40 minutes, so find a comfortable place before you start. In the early days of breastfeeding, when you're still trying to get the hang of it, creating the right atmosphere is important. If you're easily distracted by noise, find somewhere quiet. If you tend to get bored, you may want to feed with the radio or television on, but only if breastfeeding is going well. Try different spots until you find what works for you.

Hold your baby in a position that won't make your arms and back ache. Have cushions or pillows nearby to support you or your baby.

Laid-back breastfeeding involves lying on your back, so that your baby can rest on your body, while your hands are free to support her. Or try the cradle hold, which means cradling your baby across your chest, raised up on a cushion or pillow. It depends on what's most comfortable for you.

Get yourself and your baby in a relaxed position before you start feeding. Pay attention to how your breasts feel when your baby latches on. She should take in a big mouthful of breast tissue.

If you have large breasts, you may find it more comfortable to lie on your side while feeding, or you may want to try holding your baby under your arm in a rugby ball position.

If latching on hurts, break the suction by gently inserting your little finger between your baby's gums and your nipple, and try again.

Once your baby latches on properly, she'll be able to do the rest.

How easy is breastfeeding?

Though some women take to breastfeeding easily, many new mums find it hard to get going. So if you're feeling discouraged, you're not alone. Talk to your community midwife, or ask to be referred to a breastfeeding specialist, if you're having problems. She can watch you feed your

baby, and suggest ways to make it easier.

The National Childbirth Trust, La Leche League and The Breastfeeding Network can put you in touch with skilled supporters.

Breastfeeding takes practise, and is a skill that you and your baby will be learning from scratch. Give yourself as much time as you need to get it down to a fine art. Take it a day, a week, or even just one feed, at a time.

If you're having a bad feeding day, tell yourself that tomorrow will be better, and that any problems you are having are likely to pass. By the time of your postnatal check, you'll probably be breastfeeding without giving it a second thought. If not, ask for support.

Can I breastfeed in public?

You may feel shy about breastfeeding in front of other people. But you have the right to breastfeed in public places in England, Scotland and Wales (MA 2012a). The rules differ slightly in Northern Ireland (NCT 2010), but you have some protection under the Sex Discrimination Act.

You may feel comfortable about breastfeeding in front of others. However if you feel self-conscious, there are tops that allow you to breastfeed discreetly. Shirts that you have to unbutton will make you feel exposed as you feed, and buttons are fiddly to deal with.

Stretchy tops you can pull up work well.

If it makes you feel more comfortable, drape a scarf, muslin or blanket over your shoulder and chest while you feed. This will give you and your baby privacy. Make sure your baby can breathe easily, though.

Some larger shops have mum-and-baby rooms where you can sit comfortably and feed, and local councils also provide information about where you are welcome to breastfeed.

Breastfeeding your baby when she’s hungry is your first priority, so try not to feel self-conscious about doing what’s best for her.

Family

What should I buy for breastfeeding?

Buy at least two or three comfortable breastfeeding or nursing bras so your breasts are properly supported. These have hooks or zips that you can easily undo when your baby needs to feed.

Make sure that your bras fit properly, and that any flaps open completely. If only a small part of your breast is exposed, the bra may press on breast tissue and lead to blocked ducts or mastitis (Mohrbacher and Stock 2003).

You may prefer to wait to buy bras until after your baby is born, to make sure that they will fit you perfectly. But bear in mind that getting out of the house with a newborn isn’t easy, so think about going in late pregnancy. Many

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Babies

department stores have staff who are trained to fit nursing bras after 36 weeks of pregnancy.

You may find that your breasts have a tendency to leak, as even another baby’s cry or the sight of a baby can stimulate milk flow.

Keep a supply of washable or disposable breast pads handy, and consider buying a light-weight nursing bra for night time, so you can wear breast pads while you sleep. If you’re planning to express your breast milk, you may want to consider buying a breast pump.

Can I breastfeed after I go back to work?

If you’re going back to work, it doesn’t mean you have to stop breastfeeding. If your workplace has a nursery, you may be able to visit your baby during the working day, and

breastfeed her as usual (MA 2012b).

If you can’t visit your baby during the day, you may want to express milk. Or you may choose to breastfeed only when you are with your baby, and give her formula milk during the day (MA 2012b) (mixed feeding).

Let your employer know in writing if you want to breastfeed after you return to work, so a risk assessment can be carried out. This is to make sure that your workplace is safe for a breastfeeding mum.

It’s good news for employers, too. Mums who are supported to carry on breastfeeding after they return to work take less time off (Click 2006).

And some research suggests that exclusively breastfed babies are less likely to be ill than babies who are formula-fed (Click 2006, Kramer and Kakuma 2012, Ladomenou et al 2010).

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 29

FAMILY

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Health

Cord Blood Collection – a frozen asset for your baby and your family

As parents we have many decisions to make as our children grow, but one of the most important needs to be made before they are even born. It’s the decision as to whether to collect your baby’s stem cells from their umbilical cord or allow them to be thrown away. The latter is unfortunately common practice here in the U.K.

S

tem cells are the body’s building blocks for life. Their job is to transform and multiply into the cells that make up our blood, bones, tissues, tendons, organs - in fact everything that makes us physically what we are. They can build new tissues from scratch but can also restore and repair as we grow.

These vital cells are already being used to treat thousands of people for an ever increasing list of medical conditions. In fact the use of stem cells is now standard medical practice in many countries.

For families with a history of cancers or many other diseases the availability of stem cells can be a life saving resource. Studies in 1997 indicated that the chances of a use by a child were 1:2700.

Today, with the number of applications having increased, the probability of lifetime use is now estimated to be as high as 1:2001. If scientific progress continues at its current pace, the ratio is likely to continue to narrow.

Up until now, the most common source of stem cells has been bone marrow, however the umbilical cord blood and tissue are much richer sources and provide a much simpler and less invasive way to obtain them.

30 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

After birth and the delivery of the placenta the cord is simply clamped and the blood is collected along with approximately 15cm of cord tissue if both samples are required. The whole procedure takes less than ten minutes and is completely painless.

One of the disadvantages in the use of bone marrow is the difficulty in finding the perfect match. This is even more of an issue for mixed race, single parent or older parent families. With umbilical cord stem cells you have a 100 per cent match for the baby and a high probability of a match with siblings, parents and perhaps even grandparents and cousins.

Future Health BIOBANK, based in Nottingham and honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2010, is Europe’s first fully accredited cord blood preservation facility and currently store over 50,000 samples for families from some 51 countries around the world. They are also the first cord blood bank in Europe to also store the cord tissue cells. As they hold a Human Tissue Bank licence this means that the samples they hold can be used for the family not just the donor.

So how do you arrange for cord blood/tissue collection? The advice from Future Health is to approach your midwife, consultant or hospital as soon as possible in your

pregnancy as not all hospital staff are

able to make the collections. The

Human Tissue Authority will only

allow collections to be made

under their licence by suitably

trained staff. The difficulty is that

a national NHS policy on cord

blood collections simply does

not exist and each

hospital can set their own rules meaning that a real postcode lottery exists for expectant parents. If the hospital will allow collections then a private cord blood bank should be able to arrange for a fully trained third party to attend the birth. Future Health, for example, employs qualified midwives and phlebotomists to undertake collections.

The cost of saving cord blood varies from company to company but is currently around £1,700 for the collection kit, processing and an initial 25-year storage contract. Including cord tissue, with banks that provide this service, will be an additional cost – for example, £495 with Future Health.

The current options for cord blood Donate: Only five NHS hospitals currently collect cord blood for the national public cord blood bank where anyone can search the 10,000 or so samples for a match. The Anthony Nolan Trust, which established a national bone marrow register, has recently set up its own public cord blood bank, initially taking donations from Kings College Hospital are expected by 2020, with 30-50% donations being from black and ethnic minority women. Samples that are not suitable for transplantation will be used in cord blood research.

Save: A number of private cord blood banks offer a collection and storage service with up to 25-year storage contracts. The longest established and largest (holding over 50,000 samples from 51 countries) is Future Health which holds a full licence from the Human Tissue Authority and the Medicines and Healthcare regulatory Agency. It will store 100 per cent of a cord blood sample and also provide fully trained health professionals to make the collection if the midwife at the hospital is unable to do this. It is also the first in the UK to offer to store cord tissue alongside cord blood.

Discard: This is currently what happens at the vast majority of UK births as, at the moment, mothersto-be are not routinely informed about other options for their baby’s umbilical cord.

FAMILY Hopefully your baby will never have to use their sample but if you chose to ‘save’ it, you will have the reassurance of knowing that it is within reach should they or a close relative have need of it.

Stem Cells in the news – the latest developments

Stem cells cure HIV

A 46 year old man has essentially been cured of HIV at Berlin’s University Hospital, after receiving a stem cell transplant from a person who was genetically resistant to the infection2. Now, doctors are hoping to build on this patient’s success by treating HIV patients using cord blood units that have the same HIV-resistant gene. The CCR5 receptor is the one HIV uses to infect its victims – meaning people who carry the mutation for the gene that encodes the receptor are immune to the disease. Approximately one percent of Europeans carry the mutation.

Recently, a patient in the Netherlands was the second to undergo this potentially revolutionary treatment. The transplant was initially performed to address another disease, but doctors specifically selected a unit of cord blood that contained the HIV-resistant gene in hopes of curing that as well. Another similar surgery is scheduled for a patient in Madrid within the coming month.

Diabetes treatment trial uses cord blood Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago have developed a new type of stem cell treatment for people with type 1 diabetes that appears to help re-educate rogue immune system cells3.

The treatment combines a patient’s immune system cells with stem cells from a donor’s cord blood and has been dubbed “Stem Cell Educator Therapy,” because while exposed to the stem cells, the immune cells seem to re-learn how they should behave. This allows cells in the pancreas to start producing insulin again.

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Health

The study participants, who were 15 to 41 years Cord Blood Breakthrough in old, had type 1 diabetes for an average of nine Leukemia Treatment years. Six had some residual pancreatic cell The properties of haematopoietic stem cells function and six did not. Both groups were given (HSCs) in umbilical cord blood to combat stem cell educator therapy. Three other people diseases such as leukemia are already served as the control group. The researchers well-known, as is their advantage of lower measured C-peptide, a protein fragment that’s rejection rates than bone marrow. However, a by-product of insulin production, and found there are fewer cells in cord blood which means that the educator therapy groups had improved that engraftment takes longer and this increases levels of C-peptide at 12 weeks. These levels the risk of infection or that the patient will die continued to improve until 24 weeks, and before the treatment can take effect. remained stable through the follow-up at 40 weeks. There were no changes in C-peptide in the control group. The Now, a team in Seattle has come up with a way of solving the treatment even worked problem by enriching the blood in the laboratory. Dr Colleen in people with Delaney and her colleagues at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer long-standing diabetes Research Center have managed to increase the concentration of who were believed to stem cells from 200,000 per kilogram to six million. In research have no insulin-producing published in the journal Nature Medicine6, they have shown ability because the they can make the stem cells multiply before they are pancreatic islets started transplanted. As a result, it took 14 days for the transplanted to work again. cells to engraft against an average of four weeks when non-

New Studies Assess Cord Blood Treatment For Cerebral Palsy

expanded units of cord blood were used. In terms of outcome, seven of the 10 patients in the trial are still alive with no evidence of disease returning.

Whilst past anecdotal reports have claimed improvements in children with cerebral palsy treated with autologous cord blood, no formal or controlled clinical trials have been conducted. Now several new trials are underway to assess how cord blood stems cells help children with the condition.

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center in North Carolina4 are studying how 150 children with cerebral palsy respond to injections of their own cord blood stem cells.

It is known that, in the case of children with genetic brain disease, infused cells go to the brain and can help repair damage there. It is expected to take about a year to discover the extent of the benefits. However a number of the children have already shown marked initial improvements. Meanwhile the first FDA-approved stem cell trial in paediatric cerebral palsy has begun at the Medical College of Georgia5. Researchers there will study a group of 40 children aged 4 2-12. Half will receive an infusion of their own cord blood while the other half will receive a placebo.

Three months later the children will be evaluated without physicians knowing which group received the stem cell infusion.

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center in North Carolina are studying how 150 children with cerebral palsy respond to injections of their own cord blood stem cells.

This expansion technique also has significant consequences for autologous transplantation, where stem cells derived from cord blood are used either to treat that person or a close family member. Increasing the number of stem cells in this way means that a single cord would be able to treat an adult patient.

For more information on private cord blood and cord tissue banking you can contact Future Health customer care team on 0800 954 5335 or visit www.fhbb com.

References: 1. Nietfeld JJ, Pasquini MC, Logan BR, Verter F, Horowitz MM. Lifetime probabilities of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the US. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant. 2008;14:316-22.

2. www.foxnews.com/health/2012/06/07/doctorsturn-to-cord-blood-transplants-in-hopes-curingpatients-with-hiv 3. http://health.usnews.com/healthnews/diet-fitness/diabetes/articles/2012/01/11/novelstem-cell-treatment-may-hold-promise-for-type-1diabetes, 2012 4.http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/ health&id=7211746 5.www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178982.php 6.Nature Medicine 16, 232–236 (2010)

For further information, fact sheets and a jpeg photographs please contact: Alison Miles Future Health Press Office 07900 691 116 Email: alisonmiles@gmail.com

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 31

Health & Beauty

Fitness

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Fitness

Myth vs Fact

Fitness Aids

1. Myth or Fact: Never get your heart rate over 130 while exercising during pregnancy.

There is no one “target” heart rate that’s right for every pregnant woman.

M yth: People are still stuck on this heart rate issue, and it was never based on anything concrete.

2. Myth or Fact: It’s not safe to do abdominal work during pregnancy. only is it OK, experts say abdominal workouts can provide many M yth: Not benefits.

Your abdominals and your entire core, including your pelvic floor, should be strengthened throughout pregnancy, and doing so will help not only during pregnancy, but also aid in labor and delivery -- and recovery.

Aquaflex Pelvic Floor Exercise Cones The cone shaped Aquaflex inserts just like a tampon. The pelvic muscles automatically contract to hold it in place which helps you exercise your pelvic floor muscles correctly, effectively and safely.

Price: £23.99

www.springchicken.co.uk

3. Myth or Fact: Pregnancy can make you more prone to certain fitness injuries.

Fact:

During pregnancy, your body produces a hormone called relaxin. It’s designed to help lubricate joints so labor is easier. When joints are too “lax,” your risk of injury increases.

What you want to avoid are any activities involving deep muscle or joint movements -- heavy lunges, squats, those types of activities.

4. Myth or Fact: Not every exercise is safe to do during pregnancy.

Yoga-Mad Evolution Yoga Mat The Evolution Yoga Mat is the next generation of yoga mat combining excellent grip, a supersoft hand feel and a stylish double sided design.

Price: £22.50 www.fitness-superstore.co.uk

Exercises involving balance, like biking or skiing, or contact sports like

Fact: soccer, can be risky during pregnancy. “After the fourth month, your

balance is affected. So that’s when you don’t want to do anything that will put your body in an unstable position, which is any exercise or activity that requires balance.”

5. Myth or Fact: If I never exercised before pregnancy, now is not the time to start.

If you never excised before, pregnancy is not the time to become the exercise bunny. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend nine months sitting on the couch. Something as simple as taking a daily walk or going for a swim can do wonders for your pregnancy, and make you feel better as well. It can also help you combat the fatigue of pregnancy and help you sleep better at night. And, you can start slow. Ten minutes a day is a great beginning.

Then increase it to 10 minutes twice a day, then gradually go up to 15 minutes. Even just walking around the block is going to have important benefits.

M yth:

NordicTrack GX8.0 Indoor Cycle Featuring an ultra-resistant, high quality frame, the reliable GX8.0 delivers on comfort whilst providing a safe platform for intense home cycling workouts.

Price: £560.00 www.fitness-superstore.co.uk

32 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

family

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Chattering away to your baby is even better for them than reading

Development

talk

By Melissa Dahl

baby

Parents of tiny babies: When you’re home with the kid, keep a one-sided conversation going about anything and everything while you’re folding laundry, making dinner, or doing whatever else around the house. A steady stream of idle chatter from mum or dad’s mouth improves the child’s cognitive development, even more so than reading to them does, according to the results of a study recently published in the journal Language Teaching and Therapy.

Aisling Murray, of the Economic and Social Research Institute in Ireland, initially set out to investigate the importance of reading, and whether reading to infants was associated with higher scores on indicators of cognitive development than other language-based interactions between parent and infant, like talking. She expected that reading would win out; the question, really, was how much better reading was for language skills.

Murray used data from the Growing Up in Ireland study, which included a sample of 7,845 infants. Parents were asked how often they read or spoke to their 9-month-old infants, and Murray and her team found that parents who said they “always” talked to their baby while doing

things around the house tended to have babies who scored higher on a test designed to measure babies’ burgeoning problem-solving and communication skills; reading to the baby regularly, in comparison, was also associated with an increase in problem-solving and communication skills, though not to the same degree.

Murray explained some potential reasons why parents who babble away to their infants may be improving their babies’ cognitive powers: Talking directly to babies possibly encourages the baby to attempt to engage in two-way communication and better focuses their attention on (their) input, although this isn’t a hypothesis we can test directly with this particular research. And talking to the baby is something that can happen very frequently throughout the day, and is easier to combine with other parenting tasks, whereas reading to an infant might only be for a few minutes a day a couple of times a week.

Reading is still important for children’s development, of course. But this finding is good news for busy parents, as it suggests something incredibly simple they can do for their little ones, which doesn’t take any extra time. As Murray concludes in her paper, “Even for parents ... who lack time to sit down to focus on reading a story, this research suggests that just talking to the child and engaging him or her in an (apparently) one-sided conversation can make a positive contribution to the child’s cognitive development.”

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 33

FASHION

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34 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

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Rascals of London l August 2015 - 35

ADVERTORIAL

nature knows best Cuski Miniboo enhances bonding, lowers blood pressure and encourages let down of breast milk When it comes to having a baby, maternal instinct is an instant emotion, with mothers wanting their babies to thrive from the moment that they are born. One of the most important parts of the thriving process is bonding of mother and baby; the Cuski Miniboo is a fantastic way of naturally encouraging this development.

lowering their heartrate, as well as reducing blood pressure.

When kept on mum, the Cuski Miniboo encourages the let-down of milk due to her having baby’s scent nearby, making it an excellent way to improve breast feeding, as well expressing breast milk via a breast pump.

Made from 100% bamboo rayon fibre which retains scent, the Cuski Miniboo is kept on the mother to pick up on her smell, meaning that when it is given to baby, he or she will automatically detect the mothers scent, providing them with the comfort of feeling like they are close at all times.

A second Cuski Miniboo is kept with the baby.

“After working with mothers and babies who have used the Cuski Miniboo from birth, being able to witness the benefits first-hand has been remarkable; something so simple has had a massive impact on development of both premature and full-term babies, as well mothers themselves when it comes to improving milk flow, encouraging bonding and attachment”.

Primarily, the Cuski Miniboo is used with premature babies in order to replicate the bonding process when parents are advised not to hold their child; this has led to it becoming a part of the developmental care programme on the NICU or SCBU in many UK hospitals.

Upon admittance to the NICU, both mother and baby are each given a Cuski Miniboo, swapping them around every 24 hours in order to retain scent, with one next to baby in the incubator at all times. As plush toys are not allowed in most units, the Cuski Miniboo works as a replacement that goes above and beyond what a teddy bear can offer.

As well as promoting mother baby bonding, recent testimonials from midwives has also shown that the Cuski Miniboo calms baby when they are away from mum by

Registered Midwife and Health Visitor Katie Hilton said: “The benefits of the Cuski Miniboo are matchless in terms of benefits for both mum and baby”.

The Cuski MiniBoo was recently chosen as one the Best Practice Initiatives in the UK and profiled at the UNICEF Neonatal Conference in London; the Cuski Miniboo received inspiring and remarkable praise from both users and professionals, striking up a demand for the product to be filtered out to new markets and hospitals across the UK. Katie added: “The praise the Cuski Miniboo received at the UNICEF Neonatal Conference was fantastic, giving the product the added credibility and awareness that it deserves”.

“It would be fantastic to see the Cuski Miniboo filtered out to more hospitals in the UK, before hopefully moving on to become a standard part of all developmental care programmes”.

The Cuski Miniboo is available to purchase directly from: www.cuski.com

For further information, please contact: info@cuski.co.uk

36 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

FASHION

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Baby Girls’ Short Sleeve Ruffle Tutu Dress Price: £28.00 www.thewhitecompany.com

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Rascals of London l August 2015 - 37

FASHION

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38 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

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Rascals of London l August 2015 - 39

ADVERTORIAL

Zita West and Leonora Bamford Team Up to Launch Range of Children’s Supplements Fertility and pregnancy expert, Zita West and MyBaba parenting website founder, Leonora Bamford address a gap in the market for high quality vitamins for children.

28 April 2015. Long-term friends, Zita West and Leonora Bamford, have teamed up to bring out a range of supplements, specially created for children, which will be available 21 May 2015.

The range will launch with a multivitamin and probiotic which comes in the form of a delicious berry flavoured powder, which can be added to drinks or sprinkled on top of cereal or yoghurt for a nutritious start to the day.

Zita and Leonora identified a gap in the market when it comes to choosing nutritional supplements for children, especially in order to nourish children to help build healthier bodies.

Leonora, a mum of two, found the nutritional supplement market confusing and overwhelming, with so many different products to choose from. She found it challenging to find a combined formula tailored to the age of her children with the quality of key ingredients developed using scientific research that she was looking for.

Leonora says, “Through my website and from having two young children of my own, I hear from many parents wanting advice as to whether their children should take supplements. Their children are suffering with everything from skin conditions to bowel problems and seem to have everlasting colds and sniffles. I’m frequently asked about vitamins, but parents are always, understandably, cautious about what to give their children. I wanted to team up with Zita, who I knew I could trust to find the perfect solution!”

Zita West’s interest has been in health and supplements for fertility and pregnancy. “I see many of the women that I look after before they are pregnant and then during their pregnancies, however, I don’t tend to see them again until they are ready to try for their second,” comments Zita.

“Many of these mums are asking me questions about what they should be giving their children, so it was a natural progression for me to expand into the toddler market.”

The multivitamin and probiotic powder aimed at children aged 12 months to four years. This age group has been identified as the most in need of a nutritional boost. With busy schedules, fussy eaters and processed foods, children

often do not meet all of their recommended daily value of nutrients. In fact, figures from the latest National Diet and Nutrition Survey shows that on average from food sources alone, toddlers are only achieving one quarter of recommended levels of vitamin D. This has a significant role in the regulation of the immune system and can reduce the risk of certain bacterial and viral infections.

However, any supplement is only as good as a child’s willingness to take it and parents know that children can be finicky about the taste no matter how nutritious. This is why the multi-biotic formula in this brand new product range comes in a delicious powder form and contains a mix of vitamins, minerals and probiotics.

The multivitamin and probiotic will retail at £29.95 for a three-month supply and will be available to purchase online at www.mybaba.com and at www.zitawest.com. Additions to the range will include supplements for children aimed at supporting key stages of development from birth onwards.

The formulation contains 100% or more of the recommended NRV (Nutritional Reference Value) of 14 essential vitamins along with a high level (12.5 billion) of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium based friendly microflora. Along with Vitamin D, which is also needed for the normal development of children’s bones and teeth, it also contains Iron to help with their normal cognitive development, and Vitamins C and A plus Zinc and Selenium to help support their immune system. There’s a clever combination of B vitamins too, including B1, B2 and Panto thenic Acid to help with the release of energy from foods.

For more information, contact Shosh at Fuse Communications: shosh@fusecommunications.co.uk

40 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

family

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Development

Giving yourChild the best Start in Life

By Les Petis Lapins

S

A very common question amongst parents is “What is the ideal age for my child to start learning a second language? The answer is easy... the earlier the better!!

everal articles in science and optimum window of opportunity for learning research magazines have described languages lasts until about the age of ten the amazing brain power that or twelve, yet most US districts wait until children are naturally born with. secondary school, after the windows are You have probably seen television closed.” In the UK - and in many other programmes describing how brain cells work. countries - the teaching of a second language They show the way children experience has also been delayed until secondary school. life (by seeing, listening, This is now proven to be touching, smelling... detrimental as learning sensorial) can make 100 a language becomes Regardless of race, billion brain cells hook up increasingly difficult. with each other!! (not A young child is able gender or academic bad for such little ones...) to hear the “pure level, children taking sounds” of a language, a foreign language The more sensory input but just before becoming (such as the unique a teen, that ability will did better in the sounds of a language), the be gone. He or she might English section of more brain cells connect still be able to learn a the Basic Skills Test. to each other and the second language but faster the brain is capable will definitely have an Maths scores of of learning.

English accent (that’s children studying a if he/she is English, of second language There is scientific course...!!) Here are evidence that children who some quotes from improve, too. are exposed to a second different field experts, language from an early to illustrate the facts: age not only achieve much better results in languages, but also in maths, “Research suggests that learning a second science and music, and in general helps build language at an early age can enrich mental brain power and cognitive skills.

development.” (Business Week, Edward Baig, Bringing Up Baby - Bilingually.)

“Children who receive even small amounts of second-language instruction are more creative and are better at solving complex problems.”(SmartKid online) “The learning of languages other than one’s own provides a unique conduit to higherorder thinking skills.”(Annals of the American Academy of Political & Social Science, C.Brown.)

“A study of 13,200 primary school children was revealing. Regardless of race, gender or academic level, children taking a foreign language did better in the English section of the Basic Skills Test. Maths scores of children studying a second language improve, too.” (Child, Lynne S.Dumas, Learning a second language.)

It is very satisfying to see little children naming animals and daily objects, or counting and singing in Spanish, knowing that this will help them in their studies for the rest of their lives.

The benefits of learning a second language are countless; just make sure that your child has fun whilst learning!

Any toddler can easily learn that “cow” and “vaca” have the same meaning, and that one is English and the other Spanish. But that understanding will trigger the essential abstract thinking skills that are the basic tools for further learning.

The American Academy of Pediatrics stated that “there is abundant evidence that the best time to learn new languages is relatively early in life.”

Mr Harry Chugani of Wayne State University’s Children’s Hospital of Michigan quotes “the

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 41

Health

*

The hottest trend to hit the UK is barre workouts.

The latest, Bootybarre, has just arrived from LA.

Eliza Stuart trained with Tracey Mallett, the founder of Bootybarre, and was hooked ever since. “I started ballet when I was 3 years old and always knew I would be a dancer, so I was excited to discover a workout where I could incorporate and share those skills. “Eliza has performed at the Royal Opera House and in the West End, and has always had a keen interest in fitness, also enjoying a career as a personal trainer. “After having 2 children I have a great sentimental touch when placing my hand back on that barre. My body was ok but I have a high expectation and I wanted the best! Bootybarre has toned, sculpted and lifted parts I never knew I had. I have seen improvements in all my clients too, and It thrills me so much when I see their flexibility and posture improve and the definition in their upper and lower body.

What I love is that Bootybarre brings all the excitement of dance, ballet and uplifting music and takes away the boredom of your regular Pilates/ yoga workouts. It moves through the body targeting on one area at a time with a variety of exercises interspersed with highs of dynamic cardio burst. Posture and core all blend to carry me through the class with that dancers deportment. The fluidity moves the class and time flies. Feeling sexy and strong this workout works for all ages and walks of life. You can’t help but leave the class with your head held high!

Testimonial - I especially loved Bootybarre because I generally hate exercise, especially cardio, and see it as a boring chore. This class is a lot of fun because of the dance element, you get into the rhythm and in no time the hour is up. Because I’ve never been a dancer the movements were quite foreign to my body, but in no time I could feel my muscles strengthening and adjusting in a different way. It creates the exact type of body that every girl wants: strong, toned muscles with no bulk and lots of flexibility.

To find out more visit: www.thebootybarre.com 42 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Fitness

Let your new addition join in with as much of your life as possible with the action-packed iCandy Peach Jogger. With sporty action, air-filled tyres for unbelievable terrain versatility, this is the pushchair for parents who want to show their child how to enjoy life to the maximum.

And that goes for style too.

With its modern sleek curves combined with soft touch fabrics and simplistic styling, the Peach Jogger is one of the smallest folded joggers on the market and is available in six stunning flavours – Loganberry, Avocado, Gumdrop, Blackberry, Cranberry and Glacier.

The Peach Jogger travel system offers functionality beyond measure: from it’s compact one-hand folding and the quick release front wheel, to the

modern, easy-lift, lie-flat carrycot (sold separately) and one-touch folding chassis, this pushchair system has all the manoeuvrability, functionality and style any new parent could wish for. Parent or world-facing options are available with a three-position recline and can be converted into a travel system with car seat adaptors. The Peach Jogger is compatible with the Maxi-Cosi Cabrio and Pebble, and BeSafe iZiGo infant carrier car seats.

Fun

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Out & About

Castles Every Rascal Should Visit

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and is a beautiful place to spend the day. Some of the attractions include Queen Marys Dolls House, St Georges Chapel and the State Apartments.

The gorgeous grounds are also open to visitors and are perfect to go for a stroll in. Windsor Castle is a lovely place for the family to spend the day, and remember to visit Eton as well – just over the bridge from the castle.

Where: Windsor, Windsor and Maidenhead SL4 1NJ. Tel: 020 7766 7304 www.royalcollection.org.uk

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 43

Fun

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Out & About

Bodiam Castle This fairytale castle is one of Britain’s most romantic and picturesque, set in the heart of 1066 country.

With spiral staircases, battlements and a portcullis, 14th-century Bodiam Castle is the real thing.

Windows where arrows were once fired, a tower that was once a look-out and ruins that were once walked upon by knights; this is a place where you can relive your childhood memories and let your imagination run riot.

Where: Bodiam, near Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA. Tel: 01580 830 196 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Warwick Castle At Warwick Castle there are many things to do that the whole family will enjoy. You can visit the Princess Tower, take a walk through the Peacock Garden or for those brave ones you could even venture into the Castle Dungeons. Warwick Castle is an exciting place for the whole family to visit.

Where: 6 Warwick Pl, London, Greater London W9 2PX. Tel: 020 7266 0921 www.warwick-castle.co.uk

Leeds Castle The Leeds Castle offers so much for the family to do ranging from visiting the Dog Collar Museum to taking a tour of the gardens on Segways.

It is a very family friendly place with so much to entertain everyone.

It is the perfect place to enjoy a day out with all the family.

Where: Leeds Castle Maidstone Kent ME17 1PL. Tel: 01622 765 400 www.leeds-castle.com

44 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Fun

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Out & About

Dover Castle Enjoy great family days out in the South East with a visit to Dover Castle! Spectacularly situated above the White Cliffs on the Kent coastline this magnificent castle boasts a fascinating history.

Journey through the castle chambers with the virtual tour, play interactive games, discover fascinating facts about medieval Dover and even be welcomed by King Henry II himself! Then re-live the turbulent war years as you venture underground into the Secret Wartime Tunnels, set deep within the cliffs. Finish off your day with a walk round the extensive battlements, the Medieval Tunnels and Roman Lighthouse.

Where: Castle Hill Rd, Dover, Kent CT16 1HU. Tel: 0870 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk

Tower of London The White Tower is one of the most important historic buildings in the world. An iconic symbol of London and Britain, it is currently housing ‘Power House’, a fascinating exhibition about the national institutions founded at the Tower of London.

Where: The Tower of London, EC3N 4AB. Tel: 0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk

Hever Castle Hever Castle is every child’s imaginary castle complete with a moat.

Discover 700 years of history at the romantic moated 13th Century castle, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. The castle houses a fine collection of paintings, furniture, tapestries and artefacts. Explore the magnificent award winning gardens including Italian and Rose gardens, lake nature walk, grottoes, fountains, boating lake, yew and water mazes. Discover the Miniature Model Houses exhibition and adventure playground.

Attend special events including Jousting Tournaments and gardening events. Hever Castle is a very interesting and historic castle and is a great place to visit for everyone.

Where: Hever Castle, Hever, Nr Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG. Tel: 01732 865 224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 45

Fun

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Out & About

Beeston Castle Alnwick Castle Beeston Castle is one of the best-loved visitor attractions in Cheshire, with wildlife trails for the children to follow, and even the chance to find the lost treasure of Richard II.

Alnwick Castle is a lived in Castle in Northumberland and has been the set of Harry Potter, Blackadder and many more. The castle offers a wide range of things for the family including visiting the Alnwick gardens, taking a tour of the castle or taking part in the dragon’s quest. Alnwick is a very beautiful place and perfect for a family day out.

Where: Beeston Castle, Beeston, Cheshire CW6 9TX. Tel: 0870 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk

Where: Alnwick Castle, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NQ. Tel: 01665 511 100 www.alnwickcastle.com

Arundel Castle Arundel Castle is a medieval castle, which was extended and restored in the 18th & 19th Century after damage in the Civil War. You’ll be treated to fantastic views and wonderful collections of sixteenth century furniture, portraits, tapestries and the personal possessions of Mary, Queen of Scots. Take a stroll around the gardens including the magnificent Collector Earl’s Garden.

Where: Arundel Castle, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AB. Tel: 01903 882 173 www.arundelcastle.org

46 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

email: elizadoalot@hotmail.com

Wandsworth and Tooting

Advertising - Rascals of London

www.elizadoalot.com/Bootybarre

NEW Fitness Class, combining Dance, Yoga and Pilates, with a creche available - South West London.

With routines needing no previous experience, concentrating on strength, flexibility, core and cardio, help blast away cellulite, tighten tummies and tone bottoms.

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email: elizadoalot@hotmail.com mobile: 07779 271 655

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Maida Vale • Fernhead Road W9 3EA Queens Park • Salusbury Road NW6 6PA (new venue) For our class timetable visit our website www.bluebirdsballetschool.com

27/08/2013 13:5

Look good and feel good in FittaMamma activewear styled to support and flatter you throughout pregnancy and beyond.

FittaWear fits as your baby grows, stretches when you stretch, holds where you need it and offers a choice of support levels for all your exercise and everyday needs.

It’s like a gorgeous, comfortable bra for your bump!

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www.fittamamma.com 01444 876 900 Sizes from extra small to extra large. Visit our website for info about pregnancy and postnatal exercise, yoga, nutrition and recipes.

call 07515522792 or email bluebirdsballetschool@gmail.com

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 47

Advertising - Rascals of London

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48 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

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learning

*

Development

Biting Back Why two year olds bite

I

t can be shocking to hear that your two year old has bitten another child – or to feel her teeth sinking into you. But the behaviour isn’t at all unusual. Most children have bitten someone at least once, as well as been on the receiving end of an unfriendly chomp. Sometimes small children bite when they can’t cope with a situation – when they’re overcome by fear, anger or frustration. They may bite because someone bit them. Or they may bite simply because they’re still teething (in which case you should give them something suitable to bite down on, such as a soother).

A major change, such as a new baby in the family or a new home, can also cause emotional upset that results in aggressive behaviour. And sometimes two year olds bite simply to gauge the effect it will have, because they’re excited or overstimulated, or as a misplaced expression of love.

Still, knowing that biting is common doesn't make it any easier when your two year old has bitten another child, or when your child has been bitten. Not only may you be upset to find out that she's been biting, but other parents may be up in arms about the incident, and your child may no longer be welcome at nursery school or playgroup.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that children don't want to attack others – they'd much rather play, explore and enjoy their friends. Understanding what's behind biting is the first step to getting your child to stop.

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 49

learning

What to do when your two year old bites another child Make sure both children are safe First, separate the children and make sure they’re out of biting distance of each other.

Stay calm, and don’t blame or punish Though you may be tempted to impress upon your child the seriousness of her actions, harsh punishment can actually make young children more likely to lash out. Let her know the consequences of her actions: “Look, William’s crying because he’s hurt”.

Help the victim The child who’s been bitten needs your help.

First you’ll need to check the damage, and maybe provide some medical attention along with plenty of warmth and caring.

Talk about what happened Once you’ve both calmed down, pick a quiet moment to ask your child, “What do you do when you want to play with Sophie’s doll?”, for example. Suggest an acceptable way to get what she wants, like asking an adult for help. Many two year olds bite once, get help with it, and never do it again.

How to prevent further biting Think about when and why your child bites Is it at nursery school, when another child snatches away something she wants to play with? When other children are crowding her?

Does she try to bite you when you've been feeding the new baby? Your child's nursery school teacher may also have clues about what sets her off. After a while you'll probably be able to predict when your child's likely to lash out, and be ready to intervene.

Watch your child closely Warning signs such as crying, yelling, footstamping, and lunging often precede biting. If she's been biting, watch her closely and step in before she does it again.

Stop her before she bites again If signs are pointing to a new round of biting, get physically close to your child and quickly and calmly stop her from sinking her teeth into her target. You might say something like, "I can't let you hurt Lewis," or "No, I don't think I want those teeth any closer," while you gently but firmly hold her forehead a few inches from your shoulder.

50 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

*

Development

Never bite your child back

Some parents think this drives home the point that biting is painful. But what it really does is show your child the wrong way to deal with aggression – that is, by becoming aggressive in return. Even a gentle bite from you can contribute to your child’s biting – so never bite your child, even in fun.

Demystify biting Talk about biting – but don't preach – or play a simple game. Ask your child to tell you some foods she likes to bite. Or name everyday objects (a cake, a table, a dog, a banana) and ask her whether they're OK to bite. You can get progressively sillier (a car, the vacuum cleaner, Daddy's shoes) and both of you can laugh about it.

Encourage your child to come to you when she's upset You may not always be able to be with her during her hardest times – when she’s at nursery school for example – but she needs to learn that she can ask you or another adult for help. Suggest that she come to you when she's unhappy about something, and then give her your full attention when she does.

Talk to your child's teacher or childcare provider First, try to find out more about the environment you're leaving your child in.

Does the teacher make an effort to intervene in aggressive behaviour, whether it's biting, punching or constant teasing?

You want to make sure you're not leaving your child in the middle of a free-for-all where children must fend for themselves.

If you're satisfied that the teacher has the situation under control, ask how she deals with biting – veteran teachers and childcare providers often have a bag of inventive tricks for dealing with common behaviour problems that are worth trying out at home, too. This is also a chance to find out whether their responses to biting incidents are doing more harm than good.

www.babycentre.co.uk

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Saturday and Sunday in Iberica Canary Wharf (www.ibericalondon. co.uk) so whilst parents eat the children can go up and play, paint, read, chat and have a taster for the language. This is a service the restaurant offers families free of charge so you can have a leisurely lunch with a Spanish ‘sobremesa’ (the talking time that goes with coffee once you are feeling full and happy!)

Ole Kids brings Spanish language

and culture to London through

well thought out classes that take into account how children learn and what they like.

‘We want children to have fun and feel good with themselves above all, and then the language comes’.

As well as story time, movement, arts and crafts, Ole Kids makes sure to include songs and games that children in Spanish speaking countries would play, this gives a child a real chance to mix when they travel and meet other children form a different culture. It is a fast ticket into a playground and really rewarding when you see it happen. Ole Kids are not alone in a growing number of businesses and classes related to Spanish language and culture. Spanish is slowly but surely becoming the most popular language in schools. This may be as more families enjoy holidays in Spain but also some are looking to the future of their children and seeing real work opportunities arising from emerging markets in South America. It is a strong language and an easy one to learn so why not give it a go.

As well as the language Ole Kids wants to bring a bit of the Spanish and Latin culture to our homes through their birthday parties bringing in the language, classes, workshops and joining forces with other Spanish businesses. A teacher can be found every

If you are thinking of going and what you want is a Paella, make sure you call to reserve it in advance unless it is Sunday when you can just turn up and ask for your Paella to be ready without the long wait.

Otherwise some of their star dishes are the ham croquettes, the amazing chickpea puree and you cannot leave without trying the rice pudding. They have a great children’s menu as well.

In order to bring this fun language to as many people as possible Ole Kids is now expanding to teach adults too. Do contact them for more information. You can learn on your own, with your child or alongside your child with ‘parallel’ classes with the same kind of vocabulary but at an adult and child level.

www.olekids.com Rascals of London l August 2015 - 51

LEARNING

*

Development

What a

4

Year Old Should Know

By Alicia Bayer

I

t’s back to school time and children all over are starting preschool. Many parents are frantically searching the internet to find out if their little ones are “on track” and know everything they should.

I wrote this article about what a four-year-old should know many years ago but it continues to be the most popular page on the site. I don’t think a week has passed in the past eight or so years when I have not received a letter from a parent, grandparent or teacher about it. Parents and principals especially have said they wish more parents realised these things.

What should a 4 year old know?

I was on a parenting bulletin board recently and read a post by a mother who was worried that her 4 1/2 year old did not know enough.

52 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

“What should a 4 year old know?” she asked.

Most of the answers left me not only sad dened but pretty soundly annoyed. One mother posted a laundry list of all of the things her son knew. Counting to 100, planets, how to write his first and last name, and on and on. Others chimed in with how

much more their children already knew, some who were only three. A few posted URL’s to lists of what each age should know. The fewest yet said that each child develops at his own pace and not to worry.

It bothered me greatly to see these mothers responding to a worried mum by adding to her concern, with lists of all the things their children could do that hers couldn’t. We are such a competitive culture that even our preschoolers have become trophies and bragging rights. Childhood shouldn’t be a race.

LEARNING

So here, I offer my list of what a 4 year old should know.

1. She should know that she is

loved wholly and unconditionally, all of the time.

2. He should know that he is safe and he should know how to keep himself safe in public, with others, and in varied situations.

He should know that he can trust his instincts about people and that he never has to do something that doesn’t feel right, no matter who is asking. He should know his personal rights and that his family will back them up.

3. She should know how to laugh, act silly, be goofy and use her imagination. She should know that it is always okay to paint the sky orange and give cats 6 legs.

4. He should know his own interests and be encouraged to follow them. If he couldn’t care less about learning his numbers, his parents should realize he’ll learn them accidentally soon enough and let him immerse himself instead in rocket ships, drawing, dinosaurs or playing in the mud.

5. She should know that the world is magical and that so is she. She should know that she’s wonderful, brilliant, creative, compassionate and marvelous. She should know that it’s just as worthy to spend the day outside making daisy chains, mud pies and fairy houses as it is to practice phonics. Scratch that– way more worthy.

But more important, here’s what parents need to know.

1. That every child learns to

walk, talk, read and do algebra at his own pace and that it will have no bearing on how well he walks, talks, reads or does algebra.

2. That the single biggest predictor of high academic achievement and high ACT scores is reading to children. Not flash cards, not workbooks, not fancy preschools, not blinking toys or computers, but mum or dad taking the

*

Development

time every day or night (or both!) to sit and read them wonderful books.

3. That being the smartest or most accomplished kid in class has never had any bearing on being the happiest. We are so caught up in trying to give our children “advantages” that we’re giving them lives as multi-tasked and stressful as ours. One of the biggest advantages we can give our children is a simple, carefree childhood.

4. That our children deserve to be surrounded by books, nature, art supplies and the freedom to explore them. Most of us could get rid of 90% of our children’s toys and they wouldn’t be missed, but some things are important – building toys like legos and blocks, creative toys like all types of art materials (good stuff), musical instruments (real ones and multicultural ones), dress up clothes and books, books, books. (Incidentally, much of this can be picked up quite cheaply at thrift shops.) They need to have the freedom to explore with these things too – to play with scoops of dried beans in the high chair (supervised, of course), to knead bread and make messes, to use paint and play dough and glitter at the kitchen table while we make supper even though it gets everywhere, to have a spot in the yard where it’s absolutely fine to dig up all the grass and make a mud pit.

5. That our children need more of us. We have become so good at saying that we need to take care of ourselves that some of us have used it as an excuse to have the rest of the world take care of our kids. Yes, we all need undisturbed baths, time with friends, sanity breaks and an occasional life outside of parenthood. But we live in a time when parenting magazines recommend trying to commit to 10 minutes a day with each child and scheduling one Saturday a month as family day.

That’s not okay! Our children don’t need Nintendos, computers, after school activities, ballet lessons, play groups and soccer practice nearly as much as they need US. They need fathers who sit and listen to their days, mothers who join in and make crafts with them, parents who take the time to read them stories and act like idiots with them. They need us to take walks with them and not mind the .1 MPH pace of a toddler on a spring night. They deserve to help us make supper even though it takes twice as long and makes it twice as much work. They deserve to know that they’re a priority for us and that we truly love to be with them.

And now back to those 4 year old skills lists...

I know it’s human nature to want to know how our children compare to others and to want to make sure we’re doing all we can for them. Here is a list of what children are typically taught or should know by the end of each year of school, starting with preschool.

Since we homeschool, I occasionally print out the lists and check to see if there’s anything glaringly absent in what my kids know. So far there hasn’t been, but I get ideas sometimes for subjects to think up games about or books to check out from the library.

Whether you homeschool or not, the lists can be useful to see what kids typically learn each year and can be reassuring that they really are doing fine.

If there are areas where it seems your child is lacking, realise that it’s not an indication of failure for either you or your child. You just haven’t happened to cover that. Kids will learn whatever they’re exposed to, and the idea that they all need to know these 15 things at this precise age is rather silly. Still, if you want him to have those subjects covered then just work it into life and play with the subject and he’ll naturally pick it up. Count to 60 when you’re mixing a cake and he’ll pick up his numbers. Get fun books from the library about space or the alphabet.

Experiment with everything from garden snow to celery stalks in food coloring. It’ll all happen naturally, with much more fun and much less pressure.

What does a 4 year old need?

Much less than we realise, and much more.

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 53

Fun

*

Mill on the Brue in Bruton, Somerset

Out & About

This is your world for a week!

Bushnell Bear Grylls Waterproof Binoculars £42.74 - www.bushnell.com

Bear Grylls Compact Compass £9.99 - www.menkind.co.uk

Summer holidays may seem far off, however much we long for them, but it won’t be long now.

That’s where Mill on the Brue Outdoor Centre comes in! Children (7 – 15 years) come on their own during the summer holidays, staying for a week or two, or coming daily if they live nearby.

We don’t have large numbers of kids (maximum of 60 residential every week) because we know that some could get a feeling of being swamped by hundreds. We are a family run Centre and after 30 years we really feel we know what kids like!

Arrival is on Sunday mornings, they are placed in groups according to age, with a maximum of 12 in each group, introduced to their two instructors who stay with them all week, and off they go!

There are at least 6 activities a day, and sometimes more, as the majority are in our own beautiful 25 acres of fields, woods, and river valley, interspersed with delicious, filling meals, home cooked with many of the organic vegetables and fruit grown by us. The children sit with their groups and their instructors in the dining room so there is plenty of supervision and the family feel. Special diets can be catered for as long as we know in advance. They sleep in comfortable bunk bedded rooms, again with their own age group, supervised by night staff who make sure the younger ones particularly wash and clean their teeth!

The activities, games and tasks are ‘awesome’ – from canoeing to high ropes, archery to colony game, assault course, crafts, rafting, climbing, tunnelling, egg drop, zip wire, trekking, pizza making in the clay oven, water slide, badger watching…. the list is endless and the days packed. There is even a 24 hour challenge for the oldest group – they go offsite to map read their way to the rendevous, trek, maybe cave, maybe climb and abseil, maybe canoe; all is revealed at the briefing.

We even organise a rail escort from Paddington to our nearest rail station in Somerset on the Sunday morning and back again on the Saturday afternoon, so that parents don’t have to flog down the M3/A303 on a hot summer’s day. And we send taxis to meet children from airports and make sure they catch the right plane back at the end of their stay.

54 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Over 50% of children return year after year as it becomes part of their summer.

They also make great friends, become more independent, confident, self reliant. They return home grubby, tired & very happy, asking ‘when can I go next year?’

Book online at www.millonthebrue.co.uk For offers & introductory discounts call 01749 812307

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Vaude Twinny Baby Toddlers Sleeping Bag £54.95 - www.littleadventureshop.co.uk

Olé Kids

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St Benedict’s, Ealing Independent Catholic Day School

Teaching a way of living Co-education from 3 years through to 18

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Spanish classes for children and parents Ages from 8 months to 18 years.

Bilingual and beginners.

✩Group classes across London ✩Spanish in Nurseries

✩Private classes at home ✩After School Clubs

✩ Birthday parties with a latin ßavour ✩ Weekend workshops at Iberica while you eat Let us know what your Spanish language needs are and we can create that space.

Our teachers are qualiÞed native Spanish speaking teachers.

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Also Adult private classes available. Contact us for more information

Telephone : 020 7386 0376 Mobile: 07734900221 Email : info@olekids.com www.olekids.com

NURSERY and RECEPTION ‘The Nursery and Reception classes offer children an exceptionally rich, exciting and stimulating curriculum.’

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NURSERY OPEN MORNINGS 14 January, 11 and 25 March T: 020 8862 2254 E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk We respect the dignity of all and welcome children of other faiths.

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17 The Mall, London W5 2PJ

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 55

Q&A LEARNING

*

Development

With Dr. Julie Goldstein Psychologist and therapist Acc

Julie completed her doctoral degree in psychology, looking at the incredible influence of language on perception of individuals from different cultures, also further trained as a humanistic psychologist and therapist, and has established her carreer working in the public and private sectors.

Julie finds her job as a professional psychologist fulfills her on many levels and allows her to be a mum to her toddler Carla, who is now 15 months old.

Julie most enjoys her therapeutic work with clients, among her other roles as lecturer and researcher, and keeps a safe haven in East Finchley for clients to come in at their convenience, for indvidual or group therapy.

What would you say are the main factors behind your success as a professional psychologist and therapist?

Passion - I love working with people, and having that face to face contact. When I was doing academic research, I learnt how to make systematic observations of behaviour across different cultures, different ages (I worked with toddlers), and across different species. Travel was part of my work back then and I developed cross-cultural sensitivity which I cherich in my day to day. When is comes down to it, all this experience was to be chaneled into working with people and maintaining intimate authentic therapeutic relationships.

My training as a humainistic psychologist complemented my systematic work with empathic communication, and it’s the face-to-face contact I most enjoy in my work.

Secondly, slowing down - I have learnt over the years to know how to take work and life one step at a time, progress does not happen overnight, not in my life nor my client’s lives. my work with people is about learning to take responsability for how things are right now, talk about life more consciously, and learn to appreciate progress is a process!

Thirdly, as a pychologist I am faced with a more flexible time schedule, more independence than a 9-5 job would offer, which requires lots of self-discipline, organization, and 2 eyes on my diary.

56 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Do you have to be in therapy yourself as a professional psychologist?

could be a place for her to talk without inhibition or limits about the things she wanted to. When I think of my daughter and my husband, I would like to be a sounding board for them, and them for me, and I know how hard it can be when some topics become quite taboo. Nothing is ever perfect and we all have blindspots in our families.

The other aspect of the work is the flexibility I mentioned earlier, I can stay with Carla when she is ill, particularly on the days when I run private practice because of the added flexibility to my work, and because I am two minutes away from nursery. My husband is also really supportive of my work and so together with my daughter we form a little team, which is really fun. Of course there are ups and downs, but generally speaking, family life fits right in, and I have never felt like i wanted to pack it all in!

Any new and exciting projects you are currently involved with?

This question is one I get so often asked. One I am currently getting the ball rolling on groupof the most important aspects of therapy itself, therapy projects. Group therapy is now on offer is experience (and its link to ethics!) - experience at my private practice, my main focus at the is an important tool that I make use of when moment is on post-natal psychotherapy groups offering psychological treatment. The experience for individuals who want to bond in what can I have gained from being in therapy myself during be quite an isolating and busy time after giving training and beyond, has empowered my work birth. The groups are small, to keep an intimate with clients, brought and safe space where empathy and clarity to babies and their parents my psychological input can join in. When I had with clients. As a my child I felt I was I will be setting up small professional psychologist, connecting with Carla groups in the very near I like my work to be as on a very physical level, ethical as possible; it food, sleep, play, and future, to provide is good ethical conduct missed the emotional support for individuals for therapist to take connection with the care of their own outside, for instance who are going through emotions, this way I family, to reflect on how the process of find I am as available things were for me and childlessness, which is as posssible for my my new family unit. clients.

Thinking of the other often uncontrollable, polarity, infertility is a How does family and yet another one subject I hold in my private life fit in with your practice with clients too. of these incredible life job?

I will be setting up small transition involving groups in the very near Quite well, a job in future, to provide the health profession losses and gains support for individuals will always be very who are going related to family life, through the process of because caring for the childlessness, which is often uncontrollable, and ones you love is what I do in my therapeutic yet another one of these incredible life relationships too. Sometimes I can be more caring transition involving losses and gains. and sometimes I need to be more challening. There are a lot of parallels between my relationship with my husband and duaghter and those I have with my clients, so content wise and emotionally, not that far apart which is nice!

A client recently told me that she had never spoken about herself with her family members as much as she had in therapy, she found herself to be quite family oriented in her discussion and made some interesting self-discoveries. I was glad our relationship

Where can you find me?

I run a private practice in East Finchley, and would be delighted to hear from you if you were interested in some counselling or therapy.

For further information, visit my website: www.deandresgoldsteinclinic.com email me at: info@deandresgoldsteinclinic.com or give me a call on: 0208 444 6831 or 0796 632 0077

Food & Drink

*

Recipes

Delicious recipes Ingredients 200g basmati or jasmine rice 100g frozen podded edamame (soy) beans or 225g if in the pods 4 tbsp sunflower oil 4 – 5 tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp caster sugar ½ tsp salt ½ red pepper, diced 6 spring onions, thinly sliced

Edamame Rice Salad Method: Cook the rice according to the packet instructions. Spread out on a plate and leave to cool for 10 minutes.

Cook the edamame according to the packet instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Remove the beans from the shells if necessary. Put in a large bowl and add the rice.

4

Makes Portions

Whisk together the oil, vinegar, caster sugar and salt. Stir through the rice, then add the pepper and onion and stir again. Chill until needed.

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 57

FOOD & DRINK

*

Recipes

Method: Preheat the oven to 150C/300F/Gas2.

Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

Put the oats, coconut, cinnamon, sugar and salt in a large bowl and stir together.

Drizzle over the oil and honey and stir until everything is thoroughly combined. Stir in the almonds. Spread out on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.

Cinnamon

Almond Granola

Stir and bake for a further 20 minutes.

Stir again and bake for a final 5 to 10 minutes until lightly toasted.

Transfer the granola to a large bowl and leave to cool. Stir in the raisins and apricots and store in an airtight container.

Ingredients

4

to Makes Portions 58 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

6

250g rolled oats 25g desiccated coconut ½ tsp ground cinnamon 50g soft light brown sugar Large pinch of salt 2 tbsp sunflower oil plus extra for greasing 4 tbsp clear honey 50g flaked almonds (you can vary the nuts e.g.: pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts) 75g soft dried ready to eat apricots cut into raisin sized pieces 55g raisins or cranberries

FOOD & DRINK

2

*

Recipes

Makes Portions

Ingredients 100ml orange juice 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 tsp soy sauce Âź tsp ginger, grated 1 tbsp honey 2 chicken breasts, skin on 1 tbsp olive oil 150ml chicken stock 1 tsp cornflour Salt and pepper

Method: To make the marinade; measure the orange juice, garlic, soy, ginger and marmalade in a bowl. Stir to combine. Add the chicken breasts. Cover and marinate in the fridge for 4 hours or overnight if possible.

Remove the chicken from the marinade. Preheat the oven to 200C /180 Fan/ Gas 6.

Marinated Chicken Breasts with Soy Orange Sauce

Heat the oil in a frying pan. Fry the chicken skin side down for a few minutes until golden, turn over and fry for another minute.

Transfer to a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15 minutes.

Sieve the marinade into the frying pan. Bring to the boil and reduce by half. Add the stock and reduce again. Mix the cornflour with a little cold water. Add to the sauce and stir to thicken. Season with salt and pepper and serve with the chicken.

If liked, serve with a steamed green vegetable such as pakchoi.

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 59

FOOD & DRINKWhat’s Recipes christmas On

**

Hidden Veg Smoothie

Ingredients 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped 1 large ripe, pear, peeled, cored and chopped 1 large apple, peeled, cored and chopped 200ml pineapple juice 100ml water

Method: Measure all of the ingredients into a juicer.

Blend until smooth.

Pour into glasses. Best served chilled.

2

Makes Glasses

60 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

education

*

Reading

Editors Pick

Goodnight Already!

By Jory John

Bear longs for sweet, sweet slumber if only Duck would let him get some shut-eye..

The New Small Person

By Lauren Child

Elmore Green starts life as an only child, as many children do. He has a room to himself, where he can line up his precious things and nobody will move them one inch. But one day everything changes. When the new small person comes along.

Love Reading New picture bookse guaranteed to makr children excited fo stor y time.

Little Big Boubo

By Beatrice Alemagna

Boubo is eager to show that he’s not a baby anymore. He wants everyone to know he’s on his way to being a “big kid” and, to prove his case, he is proud to demonstrate his newfound abilities.

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 61

education

*

Reading

First Snow

By Peter McCarty

Sick Simon

By Dan Krall

It’s a day of firsts for Pedro . . .

First snowfall. First snow angel. First taste of a snowflake. First sled run.

First snowball fight! All the joy, magic, and wonder of a child’s first experiences are captured in this breathtaking picture book.

Zombie in Love 2 + 1

By Kelly Di-Pucchio

The sequel to Zombies in Love in which our zombie pals become parents to a bouncing, non-dead baby boy. Why are his teeth growing in instead of falling out?

It just doesn’t make sense!

3 years

+

Are germs gross, or great? Sick Simon learns how to be healthconscious during cold and flu season in this clever picture book from the author-illustrator of The Great Lollipop Caper.

Simon is going to have the best week ever. Who cares if he has a cold? He goes to school anyway, and sneezes everywhere, and coughs on everyone, and touches everything.

62 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

education

*

Reading

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to School

By Benjamin Chaud First, some giant ants steal breakfast.

Then there are the evil ninjas, massive ape, mysterious mole people, giant blob, and countless other daunting (and astonishing) detours along the way to school. Are these excuses really why this student is late?.

Oliver and Patch

By Claire Freedman

Oliver is finding the big city a lonely and scary place but when he finds a little lost dog he makes his first friend in the city. The trouble is, he knows that somewhere out there someone is missing the little dog just as much as he is loving having him, So, with a heavy heart, Oliver sets about doing the right thing.

The Big Blue Thing on the Hill

By Yuval Zommer

This crazy animal caper will have you cheering for the little guys!

When the Big Blue Thing (a camper van to us humans) arrives on Howling Hill, the local wildlife all agree it has to go. First the wolves try to scare it away, then the bears, boars, and foxes have a turn. Finally the wise owls suggest sending the smallest critters; the insects; to do the job.

Editors Pick

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 63

education

*

Reading

Snoozefest

By Samantha Berger

Snuggleford Cuddlebun is a champion sleeper.

In fact, she’s such a good sleeper that she decides to go to Snoozefest.

Last Stop on Market Street

By Matt de la Peña

Every Sunday after church, CJ and his grandma ride the bus across town.

But today, CJ wonders why they don’t own a car like his friend Colby.

Why doesn’t he have an iPod like the boys on the bus? How come they always have to get off in the dirty part of town?

Please, Mr. Panda

By Steve Antony It definitely pays to be polite when doughnuts are involved! Remember to say “please” and “thank you” if you want a sweet treat from this bear.

64 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 65

TOY TOWN

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Timeless Sophie’s Doll House Price: £104.99

The Le Toy Van Sophies Dolls House is fully decorated inside & out with opening windows, opening shutters, an opening front door and a removable roof with upper floor.The house has a lovely wooden staircase which can be removed to make playing in the doll house Enchanted Forest Fridge easier. The walls are decorated and feature lots Price: £74.99 of little details found in every home!

This beautiful Enchanted Forest Fridge by Teamson is wonderful for role play and keeping all your forest fruits in!! Works very well with the Enchanted Forest Cooker and Washer to make a full Enchanted Forest Kitchen.

Enchanted Forest Cooker Price: £74.99 This beautiful Enchanted Forest Cooker by Teamson is a lovely toy for role play and imaginative play with an opening oven door and knobs you can twiddle too!

Enchanted Forest Sink and Washer Price: £74.99

TT

This beautiful Enchanted Forest Sink and Washer by Teamson is a lovely wooden toy for playing house works well with the Enchanted Forest Cooker and Fridge to create a whole kitchen selection.

imeless oys www.timelesstoysltd.co.uk

Traditional doesn’t mean boring

Rocking Dinosaur Pull Along Cow Price: £14.99 Looking very pretty in pink, this wooden pull along cow will test your child’s hand/eye coordination. Simply stack the blocks in the correct order and then your cow can be pulled along by your toddler, nodding and wobbling behind them - their very own pet!

66 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Price: £99.99 A prehistoric alternative to a rocking horse - a delightful rocking dinosaur!

TOY TOWN

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Timeless

Book Buggee Price: £34.99 The P’kolino Book Buggee is a fantastic way to make books a part of everyday fun - children can select their own books from the buggee, store them away, pull them around - and there’s plenty of room for favourite toys to jump in for story time!

Basic Skills Board Price: £16.99 This wooden bear is always smiling, but he’s happiest when fully dressed!

Getting dressed won’t be such a puzzle once zipping, buckling, snapping, lacing and tying, and other dressing skills are mastered. Develop fine motor and life skills with this great activity. A brilliant way to teach little fingers how to do those little fiddly jobs that are so crucial for growing up!

Magic Garden Dolls Rocking Cradle Price: £44.99 This lovely little doll’s bed gently rocks when pushed to lull dolly off to sleep.

This rocking dolls cradle is a fantastic addition to any doll’s nursery

Hideaway Kitchen Price: £159.99 A lovely play kitchen including a sink, stove, oven with pull out rack, dishwasher, functioning knobs, clock and more!! And this particular children’s kitchen is ingenious in the fact that in a few simple moves it folds away to a depth of 6 inches meaning you can store it away when not in play!!

Silly Soft Seating Price: £39.99 Available in 5 different colours, pink, red, green, blue, orange. An ingenious idea from P’kolino is this fun loving combination of stuffed toy and modular toddler seating! The modular Silly Soft Seating is made up of three sturdy but light-weight pieces that can be put together in many different ways; from seats of varying heights to tiny tables.

Activity Cube Price: £43.99 This activity cube by East Coast is a fabulous first birthday or Christmas present! It has a number of traditional toys incorporated in it - a ‘learn the time’ clock, a bead maze, a xylophone, a chalk board and a finger labryinth on top. The top of the activity cube can be turned upside down in to the cube for easy storage. This wooden toy will keep any child entertained for hours and is good for little ones who are just learning to stand and play!

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TOY TOWN

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Timeless

Camelot Castle Price: £54.99 The Camelot Castle by Le Toy Van is an exciting, medieval castle that features a breakaway wall, which will lead to imaginative battles and great knight fun! Protect the King and Queen from a fire-breathing dragon or enemy warrior knights with this four-towered Camelot Castle which comes complete with working drawbridge and crane.

Abacus Price: £9.99 This wooden “calculator” helps teach maths skills, patterning and colour recognition. Slide and count the beads with this timeless counting frame. The most traditional of wooden toys and a very educational one too!

Dylan and Boo Rocking Horse Rocker Price: £124.99 This fabulous rocking horse from A Little Bird Told Me has a wonderful stylised fabric print body - designed exclusively for Little Bird Told Me by Rosalind Maroney. Separate teddy bear toy tucks snugly inside Dylan’s pocket soft and tactile fine wale cord mane and tail detail.

He is a lovely modern twist on a traditional wooden toy.

Music Play Table Price: £69.99 This wonderful play table features a drum, a cymbal and a xylophone to encourage children’s interest in music and rhythm and also has a bead maze and stacking frog for when they’ve had enough of making music! And there’s plenty of room for more than one child to play.

Pirate Ship Rocker Price: £180 A solid wood boat and rocker combined from the fantastic Teamson - the rocker comes with a foam sword, pirate’s hat as well as a pretend telescope and pirate flag! Everything you need for hours of imaginative play! .....And the pirate ship has a spinning captains wheel as well as a storage area!! As with all Teamson products this item is hand carved and hand painted to the highest quality.

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Fun

Kingswood Camps

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Age: 3 - 17 years

Camps

Barracudas

Our holiday adventures packed with exhilarating activities make for an unforgettable time away from home for 8-17 year olds. With a choice of 7 night holidays and shorter 3 or 4 night mini breaks, young people experience a taste of freedom in the great outdoors, whilst facing their fears, learning new skills and having fun with new friends.

Tel: 0800 655 6560

Age: 4 – 16 years

Web: www.kingswood.co.uk

Nesta Kids Summer Holiday Camp Age: 4 – 12 yrs This popular & exciting Holiday Club is open to children aged 4-12 years in their local area. Activities are many and varied, to suit the needs of all children, whatever their interests.

Where: Old Latymerians Sport Club, Wills Crescent, London TW3 2JD Tel: 0799 051 2002.

Web: www.nestakids.co.uk

Camp Beaumont Age: 3 – 17 years

London Summer Camps in 2015 David Lloyd Kids Holiday Active Age: 5 – 13 years

Barracudas offers activity day camps in London for children aged between 4 to 16 years. They have been running the UK’s favourite activity day camps for 20 years now, and have a fantastic and experienced team who make sure your children always have a brilliant time.

Tel: 0845 123 5299 Web: www.barracudas.co.uk

Dance Fusion

Age: 5 – 12 years

Dance Fusion is holding a fun dance, drama and singing summer school. They will have a fantastic time learning songs, dances and drama scenes from well known musicals. They also get arty and make all of their props for the small show they put on at the end of the week. Parents and friends are invited to go along and watch what thry have been up to during the week.

Tel: 0781 317 0707 Email: info@dancefusiontwickenham.com Web: www.dancefusiontwickenham.com

Camp Beaumont is London’s No 1 and most experienced Day Camp. Children are grouped according to their age and take part in up to 40 activities throughout the week as well as Theme Days with special events for specific age groups such as Kiddi- Karts, Zorbing and climbing a Mobile Climbing Tower.

Activities also include creative workshops, horse riding, motorsports, soccer, swimming and tennis. Their motto is simple – Strictly No Boredom!!

When: Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Where: North London, Woodford Green, Blackheath, Richmond, Wimbledon, Bromley, Tunbridge Wells, Reigate, Esher, Ascot and Northwood.

Tel: 0126 382 3000 Web: www.campbeaumont.co.uk

An exciting structured programme of play, sports, arts & crafts, pool fun, tennis, multi sports for children aged 5 to 13.

Where: David Lloyd Leisure Centre, Kidbrooke.

Tel: 0208 331 3901 Web: www.davidlloyd.co.uk

Mad Science

Age: 4 – 11 years

Are you looking for some extraordinary Science and whizz-bang Mad Science fun for your aspiring Mad Scientists this Summer? Take-home gift at the end of every day! Trained, reliable instructors, all CRB checked, Discount for online and group bookings!

When: Monday 16th July to Friday 24th August Tel: 0208 832 7447 - Acidic Adi Web: www.madscience.org

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TOY EDUCATION TOWN 4 Schooling to 6 Years

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Cool Kids Back

2 School ress em,

How to D ore m d n a m e p e r P

New friends, new teachers, new routines making the transition from the lazy days of summer to the school year is chaotic for your kids and for you. Get back into the swing of things with fresh ideas from fellow mums who’ve been there, done that!

Back To School Essentials Most schools provide a shopping list of essential items your child will need during term time - ring your child’s school if you haven’t yet received one by mid-August. In the meantime we’ve compiled a list of back to school essentials to help you get started.

School uniform Check school uniform requirements with your child’s school. You can get some real bargains on school uniforms in the summer holidays thanks to supermarket price wars. Check your school’s uniform policy for exact requirements, but most children will need: Blazer, jumper, shirts/blouses and tie,trousers/skirts, PE kit t-shirt / PE top, PE shorts / PE skirt, specific sports wear, tracksuit, socks/tights, shoes and plimsolls/ trainers, football/rugby/hockey boots, school bag and PE bag, swimming shorts/trunks/suit, name tags.

Stationery and books You can pick up school books cheaply online.

School stationery can be picked up for just a few pounds on the high street. But don’t automatically head to a specialist stationer, bargains can be found elsewhere in supermarkets and independent discount shops.

For books, shop around online to find the cheapest retailers.

Common back to school essentials include: Pens, pencils, coloured pencils, sharpener and eraser, felt tip pens and highlighters, pencil case, ruler, protractor, compass, calculator/scientific calculator, notepad, Tippex/ correction fluid, English dictionary, language dictionary (French, German etc.)

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TOY EDUCATION TOWN 4 Schooling to 6 Years

Preparing For School The new school year can be a stressful time for parents and children, especially for those approaching a change such as a new school or exams.

Children benefit from encouragement and reassurance from their parents about going back to school, and from having anxieties listened to and taken seriously. Parents also need to feel able to talk over their fears and worries so they can support their children.

Talk to your child about any worries they have about returning to school.

The following tips are for nervous parents and school children.

Start finding your routine again near the end of the holidays.

Getting back to term-time bedtimes is a good place to start, then it won’t be such a shock when school starts again.

‘Back to school blues’ are common at the end of the holidays, but if you feel your child seems unusually worried or apprehensive use a quiet time out to ask if they are OK. Talk about change. Whether it’s a new school or a change in your family’s circumstances, make time to talk about any fears or worries. Why not visit the school to get your child used to the new journey?

Your child may be worried about losing friends who are going to a different secondary school or about making new friends. You could try inviting an old school friend round for tea at the end of the first week so they can compare notes.

**

Tell your child you’re proud of them. If your child is about to start an important year such as GCSEs or first year at secondary school, they may need a bit more reassurance.

Re-address any problems left over from last term. If your child has experienced bullying or has had problems at school, make sure you understand what they want to happen too - even if it means just talking about it.

Be prepared to give them a bit of leeway for the first week or so.

School can be a long day for kids and when they’re out of practice, it can be exhausting.

Teachers’ top tips for starting the year 0ff right KEEP IN TOUCH. Parent contact is the key to a child’s success, so keep the lines of communication open.

“Let us know how to reach you,” says Natasha Johns, a fourth-grade teacher in Bedford. “Is e-mail best? Should we never call you at work? We need this info so we can be in touch.”

FILL THEM IN. It’s better for teachers to know too much about your child than not enough. “Tell us about medical issues and any matter that might affect mood or behavior, like the death of a pet,” says Joan Rice, a teacher in Islington.

GET INVOLVED (BUT NOT TOO INVOLVED). It’s helpful when you stay up-to-date on classroom notes and events. “Be present by volunteering to help out in the class and by asking us how you might reinforce school lessons at home,” says Rice. To avoid overstepping, she suggests, “stay focused on your own child’s development, rather than on that of the other kids.”

BRING THE LESSONS HOME. Help your child keep learning when he’s at home by creating an environment that reflects the attitude that school is important. “Establish consistent routines — a place to study, a place to keep materials, and a quiet time each evening devoted to schoolwork,” says Rice.

SHOW SOME TRUST! “Just as you trust the dentist to know how to pull your tooth, realize that we’re specialists in educating your child,” says Tammy Wawro, a facilitator for new teachers in London.

“So back us up and believe that we’re here because we care about your child’s success.”

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EDUCATION

Making Healthier School Lunch Boxes

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Children need a healthy, balanced diet, which is rich in fruit, vegetables and starchy foods. If your child has school dinners, talk to them about the types of food they need to eat to stay healthy and encourage them to vary their meals.

Packed lunches give you more control over your child’s diet, but it can be a challenge to keep them interesting and healthy.

Schooling Making school packed lunches Children should get a third of their daily nutrients at lunchtime.

Use these guidelines to help you pack a healthy school lunchbox: Around a third of the meal should be made up of fruit and vegetables. Another third should be starchy foods such as bread, rice, potatoes and pasta - choose wholegrain varieties whenever you can. Some milk and dairy foods should be included, and should make up about 15% of the meal. Some meat, fish, eggs, beans and other nondairy sources of protein are part of a balanced meal. These should make up around 12% of a meal.

These example school lunchbox menus will help you get started packing more nutritious and tasty lunchboxes.

School lunch menus for

School lunch menus for

School lunch menus for

5-8 year olds

9-12 year olds

13-16 year olds

Menu 1

Menu 1

Menu 1

Houmous, red pepper and grated carrot pitta Reduced-fat cheese triangle Low-fat fruit yoghurt Box of raisins Apple juice

Tortilla with chicken, tomato, onions and peppers Plain popcorn (small packet) Cucumber and carrot sticks Grapes Yoghurt drink

Pastrami and Edam cheese wrap with lettuce and tomato Pepper slices Slice of carrot cake Apple Bottle of water

Menu 2

Menu 2

Menu 2

Edam, ham and lettuce wrap Celery sticks Mini blueberry muffin Nectarine Semi-skimmed milk drink

Pasta salad with tomatoes, mushrooms, pepper and tuna Reduced-fat cheese triangle Low fat muesli yoghurt Mango slices Fresh orange juice

Slice of homemade ham, mozzarella and tomato pizza Cucumber sticks Grapes Fresh fruit salad with lowfat fromage frais Orange juice

Tips for preparing lunchboxes Keep your child’s school lunch cool by including a frozen juice carton. By lunchtime the juice will have melted into a refreshing drink and the rest of the lunchbox will be cool and fresh.

Keep a variety of different types of bread, wraps and pittas in the freezer to be taken out as you need them. This will ensure day-today variety without bread and wrap products going off.

You can sneak extra vegetables into your child’s diet in sandwiches. Lettuce, cucumber, tomato, green pepper, roasted peppers or sweet onion make great sandwich fillings.

Choose 100% fruit juice drinks rather than

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www.lunchboxworld.co.uk

those labelled ‘from concentrate’. Pure fruit juice counts as one of your child’s recommended five daily portions of fruit and vegetables.

Vary the fruit and veg you add to school lunchboxes to help your child eat a balanced diet and discover favourites. Serve fruit in different ways and combinations - such as mixed slices, whole fruits, cubes and vegetable sticks to make lunches more enjoyable.

Choose lower-fat sandwich fillings such as lean meats like chicken or turkey, fish (such as tuna or salmon), cottage cheese, edam and mozzarella.

Blafre Retro Lunch Box Brown Elephants - £13.99

LEGO Lunch Box 8 Brick, Green - £10.99

Blafre Small Tin Two Owls on Branch - £6.99

Blafre Tin Lunch Box Twitter Birds - £12.99

TUMTUM Tiny Snackpots - £8.50

Scoot Starz ad_Layout 1 24/09/2012 18:55 Page 1

Advertising - Rascals of London

Scoot Starz are brightly coloured, motion-sensitive lights to make your scooter sparkle.

Just slot into the wheels of your Micro scooter and you are off!

Just£6.99 £8.99 a pack, Just forfor a pack, withfree free P&P with P&P A perfect stocking filler!

To purchase your Scoot Starz, please visit www.scootnpull.co.uk

Scooter Starz are bright little lights to make your scooter sparkle!

Available in multi-coloured packs Scoot n Pull adjusted.indd 1 of five or six, these lights have been designed to fit Mini and Maxi Micro scooters.

14/07/2013 13:56

Scooter Starz are motion sensitive, so no need to switch them on or off. They are easy to install, all you need to do is press them into the larger holes of the wheels of your scooter. Once pushed into position, you will find that they are secure, yet easy to remove when you have finished with them.

To use your lights, remove the isolation tape and insert them into your wheels. Scooter Starz are great fun, but they also increase visibility when you are heading home. To find out more and watch a video go to: www.scootnpull.co.uk

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Chemises assorties pour père et fils Rascals of London l August 2015 - 73

Top 7

FAMILY

Health

Family Holiday Destinations

Center Parcs

Longleat Forest, Wiltshire Situated in the beautiful Longleat Estate is the simply stunning, Longleat Forest. The hilly landscape is truly spectacular and you’ll see hundred-year-old Giant Redwoods. To get around, you can cycle, walk or catch the land train which is exclusive to Longleat Forest.

Within the complex the Plaza and Jardin des Sports is home to a wide range of indoor activities including the subtropical swimming paradise and ten pin bowling, and outside there are a vast number of activities including zip wire, falconry and tree trekking to name a few.

2

Self Catering Beach Apartment Marbella, Spain Any closer to the sea and you’ll need to sleep on a lilo when you stay in a beach apartment in Marbella. This attractive front line beach apartment is situated halfway between Fuengirola and Marbella.

It has panoramic views over the beach and the mediterranean, and direct access to the beach.

Tel: +34 952 204 435 Web: www.spain-holiday.com

Tel: 0844 826 7723 Web: www.centerparcs.co.uk

3

Le Boat Boating holiday

Canal du Midi, South of France

Bathed in warm sunshine for most of the year, a cruise along the waterways of Canal du Midi in the South of France is a perfect family holiday choice for experienced and first-time cruisers alike. More up and enjoy the beautiful countryside on your bike or by foot, visit the impressive walled city of Carcassonne and the medieval Cathar city of Argens Minervois close to the pretty port of Homps.

Tel: 0844 463 3594 Web: www.leboat.co.uk

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4

travel

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Getaways

Mediterranean Cruise A cruise is a fun way to spend a summer holiday with the family, soaking up the sun on deck and taking in some culture at the various ports of call along the way and cruise holidays can also be more affordable than you think.

All restaurants on MSC cruise ships offer early dining for families and children’s menus are available.

There’s a kids club, with activities for various age groups. All the MSC club team is English speaking and when parents are out on shore excursions they can leave their children at the free kids club. The children have lunch with the staff in a dedicated area and with a special children’s menu.

Tel: 0844 561 7412 Web: www.msccruises.co.uk

5

Safari

Normandy, France

Meet the Big Five without travelling thousands of miles or paying through the nose by taking your kids to Safari Lodge, just three hours’ drive from Calais. Twenty-six wooden bungalows overlook a small valley and lake where, among other animals, rhinoceros, antelopes and Siamang gibbons roam. A short break here makes the perfect start or finish to a holiday exploring the rural Pays d’Auge area of Normandy, with its wild flowers, hedgerow-chequered fields and cider trails.

Sea France offers up to 15 sailings a day from Dover to Calais.

Tel: 0113 256 4373 Web: www.fourseasonsfrance.co.uk Email: info@fourseasonsfrance.co.uk

7

Legoland

Great Glen Water Park

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Great Glen Water Park is part of the Go Active Breaks collection. Having undergone over half a million pounds worth of extensive refurbishment over the last two years this park now looks better than ever.

Surrounded by magnificent scenery on the shores of Loch Oich and Loch Lochy, with the wooded hills of the Great Glen behind, this park offers an excellent variety of watersports and land based activities, together with the comfort and convenience.

Facilities: • Indoor heated swimming pool • Half size tennis court • Table Tennis • Canoeing and Kayaking • Cro-Kick and Disc Golf • Short Mat Bowls and Petanque • Snorkelling and WaterWalkerz • White Water Rafting • Fencing and Archery • 4x4 Driving and Quad Biking • Clay Pigeon Shooting • Mountain Biking • Paintball • Salmon and Trout Fishing • Body Zorbs • Crossbow • Sauna, Solarium and Jacuzzi • Bar, restaurant and coffee shop • Games room • Children’s play area Tel: 0844 847 1356 Web: www.hoseasons.co.uk

Windsor Park

Something a little closer to home.

Bringing LEGO to life, an inspirational and family fun attraction perfect for children between 3 - 12 years old. Let your child be the Hero as they become a pirate, viking or a diver in one of over 55 rides, attractions and shows set in over 150 acres of LEGO themed Parkland.

In the new Legoland Hotel they have many child friendly features, including: Child-friendly Bricks buffet restaurant, Pirate-themed indoor water play area, Swimming pool, Stunning Skyline Bar, Secret whoopee cushions, Tight-rope walking marching guards, Exploding toy boxes, Treasure trails and a full Children’s entertainment programme.

All bedrooms are themed – Pirate, Kingdom or Adventure – with interactive challenges to inspire little imaginations, separate bunk-bed areas and larger-than-life LEGO figures.

Tel: 0845 373 2640 Web: www.legolandholidays.co.uk

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9

Airport Tricks for Families Avoid tantrums, tears and boredom at the start of your family holiday with these crafty airport hacks.

1. Leave Early!

It sounds obvious, but there’s nothing worse than stewing in a traffic jam watching your departure time creep closer.

Backpacks are best, leaving you free to hold on to little hands, and plenty of pockets can help you stay organised.

6. Stock up on snacks

Be extra generous with the time you allow – spending extra time in the departures lounge is less painful than sprinting through the terminal as your final call booms from the tannoy.

Airports are pricey, and long delays mean rumbling tummies. Include a hefty snack bag, stuffed with non-messy, easy-to-eat bites. For the sake of your sanity, keep sugary sweets to a minimum!

2. Swot up before the off

Pack a couple of empty water bottles to fill up at the fountains after security to keep hydration high and spending low.

You’ll find decent family amenities – play zones, feeding facilities and changing areas – in most airports, but that doesn’t mean they’re easy to find.

Go online and find out exactly where these spots are in your terminal, so you can head straight there without getting lost in duty free.

3. Don’t forget the essentials and the spares

7. Unplug your entertainment A tablet or laptop loaded with fun games and movies can certainly keep kids happy for hours, but don’t risk finding yourself with empty batteries and nothing to distract the nippers.

A few books and games are essential to keep the low-battery panics at bay.

Avoid emergency dashes to the shops. Make a list of everything you need in your hand luggage and pack well before you set off.

8. Consider a lounge pass

Spare clothes will rescue you from spills and accidents, ziplock bags are great for shoving in any dirty items, and bring twice and many nappies as you think you’ll need.

Airport lounges are no longer restricted only to business and first-class flyers; many major airports now have excellent lounges open to anyone who wants to escape the chaos.

4. Be prepared for security Shepherding tots through security can be a major headache, so pre-plan to dodge any last-minute scrambles.

Buy a bunch of clear plastic bags (just make sure they’re the correct size: no larger than 20cm x 20cm) so you can prepack all your liquids at home instead of in the queue.

Those lace-up boots may look fabulous, but its best to stick to shoes that slip off easily. Don’t forget to empty your pockets to avoid any delays.

5. Be smart with your handheld luggage It’s near impossible to travel light when you’re with the kids, but bear in mind the possibility that you may have to carry your own bag, a tired-out tot, plus their carry-on, too.

76 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Check to see the facilities available – a lounge with a playroom for little ones, games area for older kids and comfy calm spaces for mum and dad may well be worth splashing out on. Plus the free food, drink and WiFi can be well worth the price.

9. Decorate your case So you’ve navigated the departure lounge, survived the flight and made it to your destination.

Hurrah! The baggage carousel is the last obstacle.

Make sure you can spot your bags instantly by making them stand out – ribbons, bright luggage tags and stickers should do the trick.

is here to help!

We all know how unpredictable babies can be!

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

1

weaning

2 commo cold

n

Treatment

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

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

www.metanium.co.uk

3

teething

4

antibiotics

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5 rst sle ep

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NEW

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7

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Protection

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

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babies’ bums

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 77

Clubs & Classes Maggie & Rose

The members club for families classes for your mini Mozart, juvenile Jamie Oliver or pint-sized Picasso. From 6 months to 9 years, Maggie & Rose classes are lovingly designed by brilliant teachers to recognise talent and cultivate creativity.

Vibrant entertainers, exciting activities and yummy, fresh organic food: all the ingredients your child could wish for but without the mess or bother of doing it yourself.

Where: 58 Pembroke Road, Kensington.

Tel: 0207 371 2200 www.maggieandrose.com

Totstars

Totstars have developed a unique and innovative method of enhancing children’s cognitive, social and physical development through sport. They use fun and action packed games to challenge and keep children enthused as they learn. They focus on awareness, numeracy, teamwork & sharing.

Providing young children an opportunity through the use of fun, action packed games and drills to engage in football and to teach them basic early learning.

Where: Saturday Sessions - Streatham, Wallington/Hackbridge, Croydon.

Tel: 07540 932 356 www.totstarsuk.com

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The Creation Station

Creation Station aims to inspire creative thinking at an early age in a safe and nurturing environment; to stimulate children’s development in thinking and problem solving using art, craft, music and movement.

Where: Harrow, Finchley, Dulwich and Wimbledon.

Tel: 08448 549 096 www.thecreationstation.co.uk

BabyBallet

An award-winning baby ballet Song and Dance Academy with an exciting educational movement to music programme.

Apples & Pears

Get going with Apples & Pears! Apples & Pears, operated by Mytime Active, is Camden’s free service for all the family to get you on your way to a healthier weight.

We’ve got loads of classes to suit your lifestyle and interests, to help get you active and eating right. Apples & Pears is all about making exercise and good eating a fun part of your everyday routine, with like-minded people and friendly staff.

There’s something to suit everyone at Apples & Pears. Whatever your age or shape, we’ll get you fitter – for free!

Email: applesandpears@nhs.net Tel: 020 3688 1710 www.applesandpearscamden.co.uk www.mytimeactive.co.uk

Theatrebugs Theatrebugs carefully designs each adventure to ignite your child’s imagination and allow their confidence to bloom! They offer exciting new extracurricular activities in nurseries, schools, parties or shows. Helping your child with improved concentration, enriched vocabulary, increased selfconfidence and much, much more!

But most of all, they will have so much fun!

Designed to encourage babies and young children to enjoy the joys of song and dance, baby ballet has built up a fantastic reputation for providing children with the opportunity to express themselves within a fun, safe and caring environment.

Where: Wimbledon, Putney, Hamstead, Highgate, Greenwich, Bromley, Dartford and Bexley.

Tel: 01422 329 471 www.babyballet.co.uk

Where: All areas across London.

Tel: 0800 975 5290 www.theatrebugs.co.uk

To appear in our Clubs & Classes section contact us at: info@rascalsoflondon.co.uk

Pineapple Performing Arts School

Pineapple offers a warm and friendly environment for students to learn a variety of professional, disciplined performing arts subjects such as singing (musical theatre) dancing (street dance) and drama, and is a great place to meet new people and build confidence, whilst developing performing arts skills.

Baby Sensory Sensory Play, Baby and Child Development. Baby Sensory classes offer a musical world full of exciting sensory experiences for parents and babies from light shows to bubbles, bells, rainbows, puppets, signing, games, baby whispering & bonding activities.

Art at Kite Studio

Mozo Island After School

Sing pop songs and jam in a band!

Big Kid’s Band Intermediate/ Advanced Group. Ukulele, Guitar, Keyboard and Recorder with Singing.

Age 8 - 10, Every Monday 4.45 - 5.35 Beginner’s Club Introduction to - Recorder, Ukulele, Guitar, Singing, Drumming and Art (inc. free recorder) Age 5-10, Every Monday 3.45 - 4.35 Both Clubs £9. Per session. Book Now for Jan 2014, Quote: Rascals, to get first session FREE!!

All of their tutors are widely recognised industry professionals, and have lots of teaching experience.

Where: 7 Langley Street, Covent Garden Tel: 020 8351 8839 www.pineapplearts.com

Clubs & Classes

Where: All London areas Tel: 07545 247 963 www.babysensory.com

Diddi Dance

Where: Ritz Music Shop, Sheen Rd, Richmond.

Email: mozoisland@gmail.com mozoislandmusicschool.blogspot.co.uk Tel: 01582 766 464 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Twisters Gym and Dance Twisters welcome children of all abilities and offer stimulating and fun classes for 6 months to young teens.

Classes include: Twisters 1 & 2, Gymkids, Gymnastics, Ballet, Street Jazz, Tap, Dance, Drama and Art.

A creative oasis in Shepherds Bush.

Founded more than six years ago to provide quality art education for children.

Their aim is to make art accessible to everyone, irrespective of income, ability or age, including the early years and children with additional needs, and to involve parents in the creative learning process. They also offer bespoke workshops at beautiful premises in Kemerton, Gloucestershire, where you can book self-catering cottages or come for a day trip.

Where: 2b Bassein Park, Road, Shepherds Bush.

Tel: 020 8576 6278 www.kitestudios.org

At Diddi Dance they realise and encourage endless enthusiasm and energy in an action packed, full of fun 45 minute dance class. Using various dancing games and exercises, bells, hoops and dance ribbons to their own funky pop songs so your little one not only improves their rhythm and co-ordination but also their social and gross motor skills.

Classes are ideally suited for both boys and girls between 2-4 years old, however they have had children as young as 16 months.

Where: All areas across London.

Tel: 07973 982 790 www.diddidance.com

Where: Ealing: St.John’s Church, Mattock Lane, Elthorne Sports Centre, Westlea Road, St.Thomas’s Church Hall, Boston Road. Chiswick: St Peter’s Church, Southfield Road.

Tel: 020 8933 9997 www.twisters.org.uk

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 79

Clubs & Classes Water Babies

Play Yoga Baby Yoga Classes, Baby Massage & Baby Weaning Classes in North London.

Eat Play Grow aims to inspire positive development in the early years that will build the foundations which last a lifetime.

Water Babies is the UK’s leading baby swim school, teaching a core skill to hundreds of babies & children every week. The courses are very different to traditional swimming lessons. For a start, because they only use warm water pools, babies can join them from birth. And while the emphasis is on having fun, their course is carefully structured, with progressive lesson plans for each week.

Where: North London.

Tel: 07831 941 419 www.eatplay grow.co.uk

Providing a variety of different activities with the essential stimulation that babies to five year olds need. It is well structured in a nursery-like setting where the children can explore, dress up, build, and create with art and craft materials. They finish the class with ‘music time’ where they use the puppet theatre to help with letter, number, shape and colour recognition.

Where: Harrow & Pinner, Ruislip & Chiswick.

Tel: 0845 519 7882 www.creativefunfactory.co.uk

80 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Join Pippa Panda and get musical with these action-packed 40 minute classes!

With songs and teaching curriculum written by award-winning composer Pippa Cleary, this unique programme brings parents, carers and children together through fun and interactive learning.

Where: St Columba’s Church vestry, 30 Warwick Square, Pimlico. Beaufort House, 354 Kings Road, Chelsea. St Columba’s Church, Pont Street, Knightsbridge.

Tel: 020 7193 3920 www.pippaspoppets.co.uk

Where: All London areas.

Tel: 01404 548 348 www.waterbabies.co.uk

Creative Fun Factory

Pippa’s Poppets Music & Movement Classes

The Spanish Machine

TinyTalk Half an hour of lively, interactive singing with signing. They teach about six

core signs each week, with lots more signs being used in the songs. Every third week is a revision week, with a signed story book too! The second half hour is playtime for the babies and social time for the adults.

Spanish tuition for children of all ages throughout London from those as young as 3 years old right through to GCSE and AS/A level.

We can arrange for a qualified tutor to teach your children at your home either individually or in a group with friends which makes the lesson even more fun and interactive. Tutors will use a range of materials including games and music to make the learning experience as enjoyable as possible.

Where: Various locations.

Tel: 0845 094 1866 www.thespanishmachine.co.uk

Where: St Augustine’s Avenue, South Croydon & Woodside, Baptist Church, Spring Lane, South Norwood.

Tel: 07594 557 846 www.tinytalk.co.uk

To appear in our Clubs & Classes section contact us at: info@rascalsoflondon.co.uk

Central London Fencing Club

Karoon Taekwondo Academy

Clubs & Classes Technokids At our computer clubs children improve their skills, develop confidence and engage in interactive learning - all in a social context.

Children learn how to hold a weapon, footwork, bladework, how to attack, how to defend, fencing tactics and international rules. All children take part in ‘electric’ fencing as soon as possible.

We bring a suite of the latest laptops or iPads into school and teach a variety of courses using the best educational software and Apps available. We aim to expand upon the ICT units that children learn in school - but it’s got to be fun!

All of our coaches working with children have DBS clearance, and the children are supervised at all times. We have dedicated coaches who supervise the children and offer individual advice on how to improve their performance.

Karoon Taekwondo Academy’s programs for kids teaches your children the skills they need to be successful! In our martial arts programs, your children learn valuable lessons in self-defence and self-discipline, giving them the confidence that helps keep them safe and excel in school in a safe, fun environment in which children can develop good quality skills.

Where: Flat 2, 7 Hide Place, London SW1P 4HD. Tel: 0776 662 3507 www.centrallondonfencingclub.com

Where: 262 Holloway Road, London, Islington N7 6NE. Tel: 020 7700 3680 www.karoontaekwondo.com

Where: Various locations.

Tel: 020 8977 6768 www.technokids.co.uk

Club Petit Pierrot

London Academy of Gymnastics & Dance

Richard Weekes Chess Academy

Fun French For Children. Established in 1993, Club Petit Pierrot is London’s Premier French club and offers many fun and stimulating classes across London.

There are Parent & Toddler groups from 8 months old (learning together) and drop-off

classes for older children.

These lessons will give your

child a wonderful headstart in French. They also offer private tuition at your home, whether for a single child or a mini-group, and they teach their innovative programme in many prestigious schools across London. Small groups, excellent results, dynamic native French teachers (all CRB checked), all levels.

Highly recommended by BBC, Daily Telegraph, Daily Express & Time Out. FREE trial lesson for all new children.

Whilst working on strength, flexibility and endurance. Our little ones have a lot of fun and our approach is imaginative, playful and has clear developmental goals.

Where: Many venues across London.

Tel: 020 7385 5565 Email: admincpp@btconnect.com www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

Where: Muswell Hill Centre, Hillfield Park, London N10 3QJ. Tel: 07881 848 884 www.lagad.co.uk

The Richard Weekes Chess Academy provides chess lessons in schools and junior clubs for children and young people who are interested in learning how to play chess. Evidence shows how children who learn chess perform better in school, have improved calculating ability, are more imaginative, creative, and self-motivated. Chess challenges the minds of both girls & boys and it’s a fun game that all children can play.

Where: Various locations in South East London.

Tel: 07538 035896 www.chessforchildren.influencer.biz

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 81

What’s

ON Keeping the whole family entertained this Summer

Central

Camden, Islington, City of Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Southwark, City of London

Night Safaris at WWT

August 21st & 28th

Experience the wild and wonderful side of our centre. We will take you on an exciting night adventure, building dens in our little camp for the evening, exploring the centre with all our senses, listening to wildlife and looking for bats and other nocturnal animals.

Where: WWT London, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London. www.wwt.org.uk

Against Captain’s Orders: A Journey into the Uncharted

Until August 31st

Kids can make this exciting maritime journey in an immersive tour from Punchdrunk and the National Maritime Museum.

Avast! Those of you still trying to work out what the bejesus was going on in Punchdrunk’s cryptic odyssey ‘The Drowned Man’ will be relieved to discover that the latest show from the immersive theatre gurus ventures into calmer waters.

Where: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich www.rmg.co.uk

82 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Secret Cinema: The Empire Strikes Back

Until September 27th

Take you family to a galaxy far, far away by stepping aboard this multi-layered theatrical, cinematic and musical experience. For small (and big) kids who love all things Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, Secret Cinema is waiting.

Where: Secret Location, London. www.secretcinema.org

What´s ON

*

Events

ZSL London Zoo Stampede

September 20th

Unleash the animal in you for the most unique 10k run in London! Whether you want to sprint, stomp or slither, the ZSL London Zoo Stampede event will provide runners of all abilities with an unforgettable experience. Race past some of the world’s most amazing animals, including western lowland gorillas and a mob of meerkats, before entering royal Regent’s Park.

Where: London Zoo. www.zsl.org

Disney on Ice Presents Dare to Dream

Until January 5th

Crime Scene Live

September 4th

Work with Museum forensic experts to solve a murder mystery, then go into court and be cross-examined on your evidence by London barristers.

Disabled helper tickets are available upon request, subject to availability Where: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 5BD. www.nhm.ac.uk

Audiences begin their Octoberwill 26th - November 3rd journey in NewBug Orleans BIG Hairy draw!

Big Hairy is back at ZSL London Zoo for withTheTiana asBug sheDraw strives Halloween half term! Big hairy bug draw 2011. The to open a restaurant and Big Draw at ZSL London Zoo is a drawing competition then her fortravels children ofwith all ages andto is run in collaboration with Cool it Schools and Great Art. the bayou as she and The competition itself is free to enter and takes place Prince try to in ourNaveen BUGS! House.

Where: ZSL London Zoo, Regents park. break their frog spell.

Tel: 020 7722 3333 Thewww.zsl.org trip continues to Cinderella’s kingdom as sheOctober searches for -Love 26th November 3rd at theRapunzel Zoo andBoo follows There will be some verythe spooky goings on at London who’s discovering Zoo this Halloween. During half term the zoo will world comebeyond creeping toher life with Halloween themed events, animal demonstrations and hands on activities led by All of the Disney Shrek’stower.

Adventure! their Grim Keepers.

Princesses come Until December 31st Where: ZSL London Zoo, Regents park. forown the first mad-cap time adventure to the kingdom of Far Far Tel: 020 7722 3333 Step into and together star in your very hilarious, www.zsl.org away surrounded by Shrek and his much loved on ice for the finale. Dreamworks friends. The worlds funniest

tour begins when you board a magical ‘Dreamworks Tours’ red London bus driven by the Where: where The O2. mischievous Donkey, chaos, calamity and endless fun are the name of the game.. www.theo2.co.uk Where: Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB. www.shreksadventure.com

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 83

Rascals Emporium

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Available in supermarkets nationwide

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86 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

To appear in this Emporium contact us at: info@rascalsoflondon.co.uk

Rascals Emporium Indoor Activity Playground & Family CafĂŠ

We sell original, beautifully crafted toys and amazing prints for babies and children from ethical and sustainable sources, that you will not typically find on the high street.

Take a peek and shop with confidence on our secure website

www.roobubandcustard.co.uk To keep up to date with our latest news and offers, why not become a friend on Facebook /RoobubandCustard and Twitter @RoobubCustard

Classes held all over London!

For classes in SE London:

020 8960 1515

Call Anne-Marie: 07973 982790

For classes in N London: Call Charlene: 07892 711162

For classes in SW London: Call Clair: 07877 664809

www.bramleysbig.co.uk Email: enquiries@bramleysbig.co.uk

136 Bramley Road, London W10 6TJ

For classes in W London: Call Gina: 07426 009179

Plant a seed... Watch it grow...

At dramabuds they specialise in early years drama exclusively for children aged 2 – 7 years.

Their carefully crafted story adventures are planned to excite, engage and enthral your child.

your child to bloom as a creative thinker, to problem solve and write creatively at school.

Their classes create a positive fun environment for your child to naturally grow and blossom in confidence. Whilst their stories ignite young imaginations helping

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 87

Directory & Services Camps Active Sport

Kids Summer camps, sports camps, activity camps & adventure camps for children aged 5-12 Tel: 0115 973 1676 www.activesport.co.uk

Allsorts Drama

Photography Jonathan Markson Tennis

Time 4 Mums

Beez Kneez

Tel: 020 7603 2422 www.marksontennis.com

Tel: 07753 533 577 www.timeformums.com

Tel: 020 8354 1583 www.beez-kneez.co.uk

Kids Theatre Week

Bravo Post

Tel: 020 7557 6799 www.solt.co.uk

Tel: 020 7287 7811 www.bravopost.co.uk

Little Actors Summer School

Clare Breheny

Tel: 01263 823 000 www.campbeaumont.co.uk

Crazee Kids

Little Kickers

Tel: 020 8969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com

Camp Beaumont

Crazee Kids runs regular termtime courses and themed summer workshops for children aged from 3 to 10, in London.

Tel: 020 8444 5333 www.crazeekids.co.uk

Creative Wiz Kids Tel: 020 7794 6797 www.creativewizkids.com

Cross Keys Tel: 020 8371 9686 www.xkeys.co.uk

Fit For Sport Ltd

We pride ourselves on our 20 year reputation for ENGAGING and EDUCATING children through activity!

Your child’s experience at camp will be one they will always remember!!

Tel: 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk

FZY Tel: 020 8201 6661 www.fzy.org.uk

Let Me Play Tel: 020 8735 5379 www.letmeplay.co.uk

Jewellery Summer School Tel: 020 3176 0546 www.londonjewellery school.co.uk

Mill on the Brue Tel: 01749 812 307 www.millonthebrue.co.uk

Yoga/Fitness

Little Actors Theatre Company specialises in performing arts activities for children and young people.

Tel: 0800 389 6184 www.littleactorstheatre.com

Tel: 01932 429 602 www.littlekickers.co.uk

London Childrens Ballet Tel: 020 8969 1555 www.londonchildrens ballet.com

Music Makers Tel: 01425 654 819 www.musicmakers.co.uk

Stage Coach

At Stagecoach we teach children and teenagers how to sing, dance and act, not only to perform on stage and beyond, but more importantly to perform better in life.

Tel: 01932 254 333 www.stagecoach.co.uk

London photographer of maternity photography, baby photography, child photography, family photography, wedding photography and boudoir photography.

Tel: 07973 753 636 www.clarebreheny photography.com

Garnham Photography Tel: 07711 941 208 www.garnham photography.co.uk

Little Lookers Photography is a relaxed and contemporary company specialising in bumps, baby, children and family photography. Our mobile studio can easily be brought to you, so you can enjoy your photo shoot in the comfort of your own home.

We also do nursery and pre-school photography, taking a range of natural poses of your children.

Tel: 07793 953 610

Lomography

Tel: 01235 832 222 www.supercamps.co.uk

Tel: 020 7434 1466

Providing after School Clubs and Holiday Clubs for 3- 13 years old children. Our customers are predominantly working parents.

Tel: 020 8201 7072 www.daysmadeeasier.com

Allsorts Drama Tel: 020 8969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com

All4kids Tel: 07876 254 691 www.all4kidslondon.co.uk

88 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Egoist Body Studios is a boutique fitness studio offering a wide range of small group yoga & pilates classes.

Tel: 07850 927 523 www.egoistbody.com

Good Vibes Tel: 020 7240 6111 www.goodvibesfitness.co.uk

Light Centre Belgravia

The Light Centre is London’s leading natural health centre, offering everything you need to create excellent health.

Tel: 020 7881 0728 www.lightcentre belgravia.co.uk

Little Lookers

Super Camps

Days Made Easier

Egoist Body Studios

Magic Rainbow

Beautiful Newborn , Baby and Family Photography in London.

Personalised boutique photography experience.

Tel: 07946 380 581 www.magicrainbow photography.com

Murphy James Tel: 020 7278 4770 www.jamesmurphyphoto.com

Silverprint Tel: 020 7620 0844 www.silverprint.co.uk

Mama Sambo Tel: 020 354 1583

Me and My Baby Clinic Tel: 020 7751 4170 www.lisabarnwell.co.uk

The Life Centre Tel: 020 7221 4602 www.thelifecentre.com

Triyoga Tel: 020 483 3344 www.triyoga.co.uk

Yoga & Pilates London Tel: 020 7735 2177 www.nordicbalance.co.uk

Baby Massage and Yoga Tel: 07582 069 378 www.babymassageandyoga.co.uk

Yoga4Birth

Welcome to Yoga4Birth, the one-stop place for classes, workshops and therapies to support pregnancy, birth & beyond in a conscious and inspiring way!

Tel: 020 8923 6452 yoga4birth.co.uk

Mum-me-time Tel: 07981 456 470 www.mum-me-time.co.uk

Directory & Services Health Centres

Shops

Antenatal

Waterloo Health Center

Birth Hypnosis

Blooming Bump

Tel: 020 7928 4049 www.waterloohealthcentre. gpsurgery.net

Tel: 07747 075 340 www.birthhypnosis.net

Email: info@bloomingbump.com Tel: 020 7731 4706 www.bloomingbump.com www.mimmo.co.uk

Birdhurst Medical Practice

Tel: 020 8875 1065 www.new.cupcakemum.com

Tel: 020 8686 2070 www.birdhurstmedicalpractice.co.uk

Cupcake

Bloomsbury Street Surgery

Gas & Air

Tel: 020 7837 8559 www.bloomsburysurgery.nhs.uk

Victoria Medical Center

It is the largest and oldest General Practice Surgery in the area and offers a wide range of services from a purpose built, state-of-the art premises conveniently situated in the heart of Pimlico.

Tel: 020 7834 2298 www.victoriamedicalcentre.com

St James Medical Center Tel: 020 8684 5353 www.stjamesmedicalcentre.co.uk

Killick Street Health Centre Tel: 020 7833 9939 www.killickstreet.co.uk

Mitchison Road Surgery Tel: 020 7226 6016 www.mitchisonroadsurgery.nhs.uk

The London General Practice

Based in the Harley Street area of London providing patients with a comprehensive range of excellent private health care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Tel: 020 7935 1000 www.thelondongeneral practice.com

Our aim is to host sessions that do not feel like traditional antenatal classes but are women-led, enabling them to learn about their pregnancies, allay their fears, grow in confidence towards the birth and enjoy the magical journey to parenthood.

Tel: 07974 253 461 www.gasandair.net

Gilly Keith Antenatal Classes

The classes are unashamedly different. They are held in my home, sitting on comfy sofas with refreshments to hand – and there’s no bias or jargon or role play.

Tel: 07968 566 396 www.antenatalclassl ondon.co.uk

Inspiring Births Tel: 07775 425 301 www.inspiringbirths.com

Mybabyclass Tel: 07812 604 405 www.mybabyclass.com

Portland Hospital Tel: 020 7580 4400 www.theportlandhospital.com

Babyconfidence CityDoc Tel: 020 7256 8668 www.moorgatemd.co.uk

Dover House Surgery Tel: 020 8807 1888 www.nhs.uk

The James Wigg Practice Tel: 020 3317 2000 www.jameswigg.co.uk

Clein Dr Lewis Tel: 020 7580 8356 www.thomsonlocal.com

New Baby Company is run by midwife Vicki Scott and offers comprehensive antenatal courses to help prepare mothers to be and their partners for the exciting weeks and months ahead.

Tel: 020 8785 3528 www.newbabycompany.com

Birth & Baby - Sofie Jacobs Tel: 07960 606 863 www.sofiejacobs.com

Mimmo

Mother Care

Biff

Biff is a family run business established in 1993. We aim to dress children from head to toe, offering an incredible variety. You name it, we might well stock it.

Tel: 020 82 99 0911 www.biffkids.com

Blue Daisy Tel: 020 7681 4144 www.blue-daisy.com

Boots

Tel: 020 7581 5764 www.mothercare.com

Mummy & Little Me

A gorgeous collection of maternity wear, maternity lingerie & nursing underwear, baby changing bags, baby clothes, maternity nightwear and Bugaboo Prams as well as beautiful gifts for mum and baby.

Tel: 01522 548 811 www.mummyandlittleme.co.uk

Oh Baby London

Tel: 020 7409 2982 www.boots.com

Tel: 020 7247 4949 www.ohbabylondon.com

Bonpoint Tel: 020 7792 2515 www.bonpoint.com

Pom D Api

Caramel

Please Mum

Tel: 020 7486 1380 www.please-mum.co.uk

Tel: 020 7243 0535 www.pomdapi.fr

Shop caramel’s unique looks styled by designers, complete with fine knits, exclusive print dresses and playful toys and accessories.

Tel: 020 7589 7001 www.caramel-shop.co.uk

Early Learning Centre Tel: 020 7581 5764 www.elc.co.uk Tel: 0871 704 1977 www.hamleys.com

Easy 2 Name Tel: 01635 298 326 www.easy2name.com

Just Williams Toys Tel: 020 3538 6798 www.justwilliamstoys.com

Marie-Chatal Offering fun, fresh and modern designer clothing for babies and children up to age 12.

Tel: 020 7838 1111 www.mariechantal.co.uk

Mush Kids Tel: 020 8653 6635 www.mushkids.co.uk

Tel: 020 7590 7990 www.ralphlauren.co.uk

Roobub & Custard Tel: 07796 451 513 www.roobubandcustard.co.uk

Pares Footwear

Hamleys

Ralph Lauren

Parés Footwear is an independent footwear retailer in the UK. We have been established for 25 years and currently operate four stores in Blackheath Village in London, Sidcup in Kent and newly opened Cockfosters in Barnet.

Tel: 020 8297 0785 www.paresfootwear.co.uk

Small Print

The original fingerprint jewellery keepsake company captures your child’s fingerprints, hand and footprints, writing and drawings in unique silver keepsakes.

Tel: 020 8567 7871 www.smallprint.com

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 89

Directory & Services Private schools

Classes

Bassett House Club Petit Pierrot

Culture Kids

Where: Various locations Tel: 020 7385 5565 www.clubpetitpierrot.uk.com

SYC Yoga Tel: 020 8968 1900 www.specialyoga.org.uk

Baby Sensory Tel: 07834 170 485

Boogie Babies

Boogie Babies is a weekly interactive music group where mothers, grandparents and nannies enjoy listening and participating in familiar nursery rhymes and songs with their little ones.

Tel: 07960 498 208 www.boogiebabies.co.uk

Bright Sparks Tel: 020 3194 3178

Buzy Beez Tel: 07903 813 618 www.buzybeez.co.uk

Catch a Ball

Catch-a-balls provides the framework to learn a fundamental life skill; ball skills, oh and we have lots of fun doing it!

Tel: 020 8398 3034 www.catch-a-balls.co.uk

Lucy Sparkles Tel: 07903 913 429 www.lucysparkles.com

Chatterbabies Tel: 07801 151 968

Messy play, Sensory play, music, cooking and art classes with a difference, throughout London, for babies, toddlers and children. From 4 weeks to 6 years.

Tel: 07818 440 771 www.culture-kids.com

Dance Stars Tel: 07753 748 819 www.dance-stars.com

Discover - Story Making Centre

Discover Children’s Story Centre, London’s only children’s museum is a place where children and their families can enjoy playing, learning and making up stories together.

Tel: 020 8536 5555 www.discover.org.uk

Jo Jingles Tel: 01494 778 989 www.jojingles.com

Kids@N20

Tel: 020 8969 0313 www.bassetths.org.uk

Channing Junior School Tel: 020 8342 9862 www.channing.co.uk

In a happy and purposeful family environment, where every member of the school community is important and all are valued as individuals, Chepstow House aims to discover the best in every child and challenge them to go beyond their expectations.

Tel: 020 7243 0243 www.chepstowhouse school.co.uk

Devonshire House Prep School Tel: 020 7435 1916 www.devonshirehouse school.co.uk

Dallington School Tel: 020 7251 2284 www.dallingtonschool.co.uk

Eaton House School

Latino Bambino

Eaton Square School

Tel: 020 7931 9469 www.eatonsquareschool.com

Childrens play room

Tel: 020 7924 6000 www.eatonhouseschools.com

Falkner House Tel: 020 7373 4501 www.falknerhouse.co.uk

Francis Holland School Tel: 020 7730 2971 www.fhs-sw1.org.uk

Garden House School Tel: 020 7730 1652 www.gardenhouseschool.co.uk

Tel: 020 7639 1812

Crafty Tales Tel: 07810 596 342 www.craftytales.co.uk

Toy Library Tel: 020 7231 3755 www.lewisham.gov.uk

Footprints Playgroup Tel: 020 8305 0520

West London Tots Tel: 07939 070 773

Monkey Music

At Monkey Music, we know that music is fundamental to a pre-school aged child’s development.

Tel: 020 8438 0189 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Tumble Tots Tel: 01215 857 003 www.tumbletots.co.uk

90 - August 2015 l Rascals of London

Tel: 020 8868 2346 www.heathfield.gdst.net

Highgate Pre-Preparatory Tel: 020 8340 9196 www.highgateschool.org.uk

Knightsbridge School Chepstow House

Tel: 020 8445 8889 www.gokidsn20.com

Exercise, Keep fit, have fun and bond with your baby whilst dancing to Latin rhythms.

Your baby stays right there with you, snuggled in a baby carrier, whilst you get some healthy exercise that has been devised to be safe and gentle for both you and your little one.

Tel: 07961 838 349 www.latinobambino.co.uk

Heathfield School GDST, Pinner

Ashton House School

Ashton House is a small and caring school using its specialist skills to encourage children to develop, at their own pace, to their full potential.

Tel: 020 8560 3902 www.ashtonhouse.com

Tel: 020 7590 9000 www.knightsbridgeschool.com

La Chouette School Tel: 07557 029 255 www.lachouetteschool.co.uk

L’Ecole Des Petits Tel: 020 7371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

London Christian School Tel: 020 3130 6430 www.londonchristianschool.com

Lloyd Williamson Schools - Telford Road

Providing independent and progressive education in the vibrant, urban setting that is Portobello Road and Notting Hill Gate. We offer a stimulating, supportive learning environment for a diverse community of happy, confident children who are eager to learn.

Tel: 020 8962 0345 www.lws.org.uk

Notting Hill Prep Tel: 020 7221 0727 www.nottinghillprep.com

The King Alfred Lower School Tel: 020 8457 5200 www.kingalfred.org.uk

Hall School

The Hall is one of London’s leading independent IAPS day prep schools for boys aged 4 to 13. Established in 1889 in the Belsize Park area.

Tel: 020 7722 1700 www.hallschool.co.uk

Wetherby School Tel: 020 7727 9581 www.wetherbyschool.co.uk

Yesodey Hatorah School Tel: 020 8800 8612 www.learningtrust.co.uk

Directory & Services Day Nurseries

Indoor Play

Parties

Tinies

Dicky Birds - Surbiton

Adventure Playzone

Rockstar Parties

Tel: 020 8642 8866 www.tinies.com

Tel: 020 8942 5779 www.dickybirds.co.uk

Tel: 020 8539 8343

Tel: 020 8767 1125 www.rockstarparties.co.uk

St Mary Magdalen Montessori Nursery School

Dreammaker Day Nursery

Tel: 020 8878 0756

St Mary’s Summerstown Montessori Nursery School Tel: 020 8947 7359 www.stmaryssummerstown montessori.co.uk

Matilda Day Nursery Tel: 020 7480 6396 www.matildanursery.com

Asquith Battersea Day Nursery

Bright and stimulating, Battersea Day Nursery is situated in the heart of London, with the added benefits of being within walking distance of both Battersea Park and Clapham Junction Station.

Tel: 01753 201 122 www.asquithnurseries.co.uk

Blooming Kidz Tel: 020 8695 9959 www.daynurseries.co.uk

Blossoms Day Nursery

A caring place for your child to learn and develop, grow their confidence and take part in age appropriate activities.

Tel: 020 8760 0540 www.blossoms-day-nurserycroydon.co.uk

Blue House Day Nursery and Preschool

Over 20 years of outstanding childcare services in London. A family run children’s day Nursery, Pre School and Out of School Club that’s based just 5 minutes’ walk from Tower Hill and Fenchurch Street stations and 15 minutes from Liverpool Street.

Tel: 020 7480 7166 www.mydreammaker.co.uk

Giggles & Wiggles Tel: 020 8566 4774 www.giggleswiggles.co.uk

Goldstar Montessori Nursery

At Goldstar we provide a carefully prepared program of education, in a happy, relaxed and caring environment, where your child can grow and gain knowledge in every area of their development, there fore, ensuring we are laying the foundations for your child’s future learning, Tel: 020 8364 6876 www.goldstarnursery.co.uk

Green Gables Tel: 020 7488 2374 www.greengablesschool.com

Hillyfields Day Nursery Tel: 020 8694 1069 www.hillyfieldsday nursery.co.uk

Jackanory

Tel: 020 8681 7579 www.bluehousedaynursery.com

Tel: 07849 171 524 www.jackanorynurseries.com

Carlton Hill Community Nursery

Keiki Day Care Nursery

Tel: 020 7624 3814 www.leyf.org.uk

Tel: 020 8340 3841 www.keikidaycare.co.uk

Kiddi Caru Day Nursery

Little Elves Montessori Nursery School

Tel: 020 8679 4009 www.kiddicaru.com

Tel: 07921 761 835 www.littleelvesmontessori.com

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery

Mary Poppins Day Nursery

Tel: 020 8538 3999 www.monkeypuzzleday nurseries.com

Tel: 01708 722 800 www.marypoppinsday nursery.org.uk

Eddie Catz

Party Magic Box

Tel: 0845 201 1268 www.eddiecatz.com

Tel: 07913 168 323 www.partymagicbox.co.uk

Gambado Tel: 020 7384 1635 www.gambado.com

The Creation Station Wimbledon

Bramleys

Bramley’s Big Adventure is an indoor adventure playground for children up to 11 years old.

A large building under the Westway flyover.

Tel: 020 8960 1515 www.bramleysbig.co.uk

Our art parties include painting, modelling, making, sculpting, crafting and of course, music, dancing and games are provided too!

Tel: 0844 854 9096 www.thecreation station.co.uk

Nutty

It’s a Kid’s Thing Tel: 020 8739 0909 www.itsakidsthing.co.uk

Tel: 0788 405 0954 www.nuttyschildrens parties.co.uk

The Action Station

Little Dinosaurs

Little Dinosaurs indoor play centre, along with the our outdoor parkland enclosure and activities makes us a great place to bring the kids all year round.

Tel: 020 8444 1338 www.littledinosaurs.co.uk

Tumble in the Jungle Tel: 0870 626 0710 www.tumbleinthejungle.co.uk

Tel: 0870 770 2705 www.theactionstation.co.uk

Boo! Tel: 020 7287 9090

Creative Biscuit

Creative Biscuit is a paint your own ceramics café where you can customise your own pottery to make your home an even prettier place.

Tel: 020 8532 2824 www.creativebiscuit.co.uk

Snakes and Ladders

Jam packed with fun, there’s something for the whole family at Snakes and Ladders.

Added to the huge threetiered climbing frame, there’s slides, ball ponds, tunnels and rope climbs. Plus discover soft play areas for little ones, dedicated zones for under 5s and more.

Tel: 020 8847 0946 www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk

Creation Station

Inspiring imaginations is at the heart of everything we do. So whether you are looking for an award winning children’s creative classes or an original Arty Birthday Party Entertainer, or Event entertainment you have come to the right place.

Tel: 0844 854 9085 www.thecreation station.co.uk

Kidspace Tel: 020 8686 0040 www.kidspaceadventures.com

Beanies Tel: 020 8680 2088 www.beaniescafe.co.uk Pretend to Bee Tel: 01159 847 838

Rascals of London l August 2015 - 91

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28/05/2013 23:37

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Rascals of London l August 2015 - 93

andy warhol + bugaboo

94 - August 2015 l Rascals of London Š/Ž/tm The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

the happy bugs collection available as tailored fabric set, footmuff and baby cocoon