STOKKE Collection Catalog 2019 stokke.com EN by Stokke

Connect in the heart of the city

Twenty years of sound sleep Scandinavian Thinking

T H E N E W S TO K K E ® B E AT ™

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™

Designed to be closer™

Brand Magazine issue 10.0

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Children need a sense of connection to feel safe and loved.â&#x20AC;?

WELCOME

We design to be closer For over forty years, we’ve combined our love of design and the latest technology to make beautiful products that are designed to bring you and your baby closer … always. Although we... ...continually develop our products and introduce additions to the collection, our design philosophy remains centered around one core concept: To nurture family bonding, transforming everyday experiences into precious memories that you and your family will cherish forever. Children need a sense of connection to feel safe and loved. Our designers are committed to creating products that help bring children closer to their parents. From our high, parent-facing strollers to our ergonomic baby carrier and versatile line of seating, our products promote bonding. This is essential for your baby’s development and well-being. Our human-centric

approach to design ensures exceptional ergonomics and unparalleled comfort. Sophisticated engineering delivers technical solutions for flawless functionality. We insist upon using only the highest quality materials for safety and durability. Our products stand the test of time and have classic lines that won’t go out of style. We will never compromise on doing what is best for your child. Safety and quality are always our top priorities. We challenge conventional thinking and continually strive to make smart, stylish products that meet your family’s needs and fit seamlessly into your home and, most importantly, into your life. �

Janne Strømmen Brand Communication Director Photo from 1974

Welcome! We’re here to support families and bring them closer. Not just in the romantic Instagram moments...but in the chaotic, messy, sometimes crazy parts of everyday life. ENABLING THE FREEDOM TO DEVELOP

LISTENING TO THE REAL EXPERTS

From our Scandinavian roots we believe in enabling freedom from an early age, in a safe environment but without unnecessary boundaries. The freedom to explore your abilities; to test, fail and test again as you find your own way of solving challenges and succeeding. We believe empowerment through supportive environments not only helps build independent and confident people but also allows for everyone to become the best version of themselves.

While we are, at our heart, a Scandinavian company, we’re also open-minded in our approach and always prioritise listening to the real experts: parents. Talking to families all over the world has not only taught us to be globally minded but reminds us how, when we have a baby, we often find ourselves going back to our roots. Our core values, ways of living and honoring what we have all learned throughout periods of our lives that “mom and dad really do know best”.

CONNECTION AT THE CORE

Throughout this magazine you will meet lots of different families; sharing their stories, hopes for the future and different perspectives on what parenthood means to them. We hope the following pages inspire you on your path to parenthood, no matter where it leads.

From interpreting your reactions and facial expressions, to retreating to you as a safe haven; your baby’s experience of the world is shaped by how they share it with you. We want children to get the most out of life. To move, reach out, touch, explore, and learn as much as possible with joy and security through connection with you.

Best wishes from our family to yours,

CONTENT

Connect in the heart of the city

Heritage, News & Trends

Finding Mindfulness in Motherhood Hanne Suorza

Scandinavian Thinking

Finding his way to fatherhood. Danish Style.

Stokke customer service

Having a baby Stokke style!

Sharing the adventure

Fun Facts about: Stokke® Xplory® 6

Tasty tips for tiny tummies

News, Trends & Accessories

Stokke® supports Doctors Without Borders

Stokke® Sleepi™ Happy 20th anniversary

Raising Self-Reliant Children

The high-flying parent-preneurs of JetKids™

Unexpectedly Expecting

How to bathe a baby. Baby’s First Bath

The countdown is on!

The Wishlist

Peter Opsvik: Still the Revolutionary

Photographers: Pål Laukli, Yvonne Wilhelmsen, Renate Torseth, Johan Holmquist, Karl Helge Skytterholm, Henrik Baardsen Monfort, Peder Otto Dybvik, Ivar Kvaal, Peter Opsvik Archive, 3D Source, Getty Images, Marius Beck Dahle, Håvard Myklebust, Isabel Watson, Torbjørn Buvarp, Vegard Breie, Rebecca Spielberg, Cindy & Kay Photography, Tonia Hernandez, Jamie Levine, Wendy Wade, Brendan Bannon, Laurence Geai, Yana Boyd, thestory.dk, Hanne Suorza, Tobias Regell.

Rasmus and Annabel Patrycja Vierkorn

Hans-Cato and Cathrine

Rebecca / @myrivegauche

Dr. Alanna Levine

Alexis and James

© Stokke AS 2019. All copyrights and other intellectual property rights contained in this brand magazine are the property of Stokke AS, (including, but not limited to, all texts, graphics, logo’s, trademarks, product names, images and layouts). Any reproduction, transfer, modification, utilization or publication of the brand magazine or its contents in whole or part in any form, for any public and/or commercial purpose is prohibited without the prior written consent of Stokke AS. Please note that the product range may differ from country to country. May 2019.

where to find us: @stokkebaby

stokke.com

H E R I TAG E

Did you know: We’ve made over 11 million Tripp Trapp® chairs since 1972 and most of them are still in use.

The Stokke family farm high above the fjords, where our founder was born.

Our hometown... of Ålesund, in the stunning Sunnmøre Alps on the west coast of Norway. Our designers don’t have to look far for inspiration.

NEWS & TRENDS

TRIPP TRAPP® NEW 100% ORGANIC COTTON CUSHIONS

Versatile and functional, the Tripp Trapp® Cushions add both softness and personality.

Timeless Green

Timeless Grey

Flower Garden

Bring in the Spring with Tripp Trapp® in Serene Pink. Here in Scandinavia, getting back to nature isn’t just a trend, it’s a way of life - whatever the season. Though we embrace all that the winter has to offer (they say Norwegians are born with skis on their feet!), it’s fair to say that there’s always something transformative about the feel of spring. Inspired by the blushing buds on cherry trees, our designers took a cue from mother nature herself. Whenever we see this soft, subtle color, we’re reminded of spring and all it has to offer. It’s calming, serene and simply beautiful. The enlivening colors and fresh, earthy, floral

smells always make us feel a little closer to nature in a time of sensory gorgeousness and a feeling of rejuvenation. It’s no wonder we find ourselves wanting to incorporate elements of spring in our homes all year round. Alongside the Tripp Trapp® chair, you can also let your creativity bloom with a garden of new cushions. Versatile and functional, Tripp Trapp® Cushions add both softness and personality. Available in 100% organic cotton and in a wide range of fresh colors and playful patterns, selected designs are offered in PFC-Free coated versions for easy cleaning.

Geometric Red

Paintbrush

Garden Bunny

Contains 100% organically grown material Certified by Ecocert Greenlife according to the OCS standard visible on www.ecocert.com License No. 165636 | Stokke AS

Now you can bring in a little piece of spring and experience the quality and beauty of Scandinavian design at its best with the award-winning Tripp Trapp® chair in new Serene Pink.

Hanne Suorza

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Hanne is a Mindfulness coach from Norway. Her family’s lifestyle involves a lot of travelling, as they divide their time between home and business. It’s an exciting combination of the calmness of home in the little Norwegian fjord town of Sykkylven and the capital city of Oslo.

STORIES

Finding Mindfulness in Motherhood

So many people are talking about mindfulness right now and research shows it can have great benefits for you and your mental health. But can we really be expected to meditate and create moments of peaceful “Zen” for ourselves when we are embarking on the big, sometimes overwhelming, adventure of starting a family? Learning from our children: THE TRUE MASTERS OF BEING IN THE MOMENT.

There’s a lot we can learn from small children. I love watching how my son uses all of his senses. Right from his first moments of breathing, as soon as he laid down on my chest, he instinctively smelled and tasted the milk. His whole face touched my skin. We were embraced in the physical and emotional closeness. I remember our first stroll out in nature, watching him experience snow, frost, sunshine and rain for the first time from his stroller. He did so without judgement,

with no preconceived idea of whether each experience was good or bad. He simply observed. Later he used his fingertips to touch and explore; scratching and pinching with such enthusiasm and open curiosity. He is so into what he is doing. He’s not worried about a to-do list or what comes next. I’m watching him now as he’s playing with cars, saying “vroom vroom” for the first time and smiling - so precious. I don’t want to miss a moment. But as I sit here I start to compare his presence in →

the moment with my own...how my mind wanders, quickly planning for the next thing: Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for dinner? How will the meeting go tomorrow?

We find ourselves becoming great thinkers but then get lost in those thoughts; often at the cost of our senses that make it possible for us to be truly present.

As I become aware of my thoughts I turn my attention back to his tiny fingers on the green car. Just being here with him, right now.

Parents crave so deeply to be present and close with their children and we know how important it is. Still, there are so many things we surround ourselves with that take our attention away from where we really are: Instagram, Snapchat, to-do lists, work, meetings, you name it.

Playing is a great mindfulness exercise and my son teaches me a lot about being in the moment. HOW DO WE GET SO DISTRACTED FROM THESE PRECIOUS MOMENTS?

We use our senses - smell, taste, hearing, touch and sight - easily and innately from an early age. But what happens as we grow older? How do we get so caught up in our own minds?

ALL YOU NEED IS A SINGLE MOMENT, JUST LIKE THE ONE RIGHT NOW.

So, what can you do? Just begin by noticing your own breath. Take a deep one. I use my breath as a reset-button when life is hectic or when the going gets tough. But what I find is that, no matter where I am, presence comes down to the same thing: Being aware of my sur-

Feeling at home in the Norwegian mountains and the capital city of Oslo.

“Practicing mindfulness can give you more feelings of calmness, focus and patience.” roundings, my breath, my body and senses. Whether it’s the noise of the city or the quiet solitude of the woods, the smell of a hot cup of tea or fresh wild flowers, it’s about noticing the rhythm of life within and around me and making peace with the stress that occurs. Simple, but not always easy. TIPS PRACTICING MINDFULNESS IN MOTHERHOOD:

- Just observe your child. Look at their legs, arms, face, skin and hair. Smell, see and touch so you use all your senses. - Start your day by being aware of your own breath. - Be present when breastfeeding or having a meal. Put away your phone, turn off the TV and use your senses with intention. - Go for a walk. Be aware of your legs, your surroundings...and the little one in the stroller. - Notice your own feelings. Acknowledge that you can be frustrated, happy and impatient. Sometimes all three! - Take a pause - deep breath - before you respond to other people or situations arising. - Accept. Have a compassionate attitude towards yourself and your child. - Be kind in your intention and listen. - Stay calm and be close, both physically and emotionally. Practicing mindfulness can give you more feelings of calmness, focus and patience and is a nurturing practice for body and mind. You can start right now, tonight or tomorrow morning. Wake up a bit earlier. Slow it down a bit. Smile. I wish you the best of luck! �

A B O U T S TO K K E ®

Established in Norway over 80 years ago, Stokke® is a global brand that makes premium products for children. Our values are deeply rooted in our Scandinavian heritage. We combine innovation and intuitive design to create products that strengthen the bond between parent and child. We’re committed to quality, craftsmanship and design that bring you and your child closer.

As a Scandinavian* company... ...design is in our DNA, but children are in our hearts. In Scandinavia, we place a high value on quality of life, our friends, our families and most of all our children. We have a deep appreciation for the stunning landscape that surrounds us. We think that the best life is one in which both parents and children connect with nature and with each other. Much of our free time is spent combining our two great passions by taking our children outdoors to explore nature’s wonders together. Here in Norway, a very down-to-earth approach is taken toward life and especially toward raising children. We believe in active comfort, giving the child the freedom to move and develop in the safest of surroundings. Great care is taken to include even the youngest baby in family

life. We seek a balance of keeping our children near, while giving them room to grow and become independent. Everything that Stokke makes is inspired by Scandinavian philosophy. Innovation, integrated ergonomics and intuitive design result in products that strengthen the bond between parent and child. The Stokke collection of unique products embodies our core values and reflects Scandinavian style at its best. We strive to combine our love of nature with our passion for design to make products that are in the best interest of the child as well as the environment. It is our hope that our children and yours will enjoy our smart, sustainable products for years to come. Experience life together... the Scandinavian way. �

Scandinavian Thinking

*S candinavia generally refers to the three kingdoms of Denmark, Sweden and our home, Norway.

T H E CO M PAC T U R BA N S T R O L L E R S TO K K E ® B E AT ™

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STORIES

Connect in the heart of the city The Stokke® Beat™ stroller is the small but mighty new kid on the block. To love city living means embracing the tempo, hum and bustle of roaming from one place to another in a journey that is never the same twice over. Traversing cobblestones, secret side-paths, towering bridges and unexpected havens of nature that frame striking industrial architecture with surprising softness and color. There’s always something happening. A new corner to explore, a cosy viewpoint to people-watch, and a hundred routes to get there, each with its own cadence and potential for something new. The city feels alive and moves at a rhythm that always pulls us back for more.

As your family grows so can your love of the city. Travel, maneuver and discover everything that the city has to offer with your family and to your own beat with the new → Stokke® Beat™ stroller.

YOUR CITY, YOUR SPACE... ...TAKING UP LESS SO YOU CAN EXPLORE MORE.

Big cities mean navigating small spaces. With so much to discover with our little ones, we can still find ourselves hesitating at the front door wondering if the chaotic commute will be worth it. The crammed rush-hour crowds, winding alleyways and stepped entrances to the metro are enough to put off even the most seasoned city dweller. But this city belongs to you and your child just as much as anyone else. So, while the city can feel like it wasn’t designed to bring your family to the heart of the action, the Stokke® Beat™ stroller will do just that.

your favorite coffee shop, hopping between buses and parking up in the best spots with the stroller that was designed to be maneuvered, folded and lifted with ease. It can be folded and carried with one hand, even with the seat fully attached. Leaving you more arm space and energy for snacks, bags and excitable toddlers. Pack up the stroller in to your small city-friendly car before you can say 1, 2, 3 without the need to disassemble, swivel things around or drop all your shopping bags.

The Stokke® Beat™ stroller is one of the most compact and lightweight strollers in this category. And when we say compact, we mean compact. You’ll be cozying up in

Head on to your next stop with the confidence to explore any space with the stroller that was designed to take up amazingly little.

Stokke® Beat™ has it all. Made for modern families living the urban experience, it has all the features you need in one sleek package. FEATURES AT A GLANCE: CONVENIENT AND COMFORTABLE.

We love the city because there’s always something new around every corner, so why not use a stroller that can handle it all? That’s why, even with its compact frame, the Stokke® Beat™ stroller has full front wheel suspension that can absorb the different paces of the city so you can walk at your own. You’ll also be cruising on brand new wheel technology that uses innovative tires on lockable, swivel wheels - smooth to ride on but strong and long lasting, just how we like it. All of this being steered by a super comfortable handlebar that sits higher than most to give you more control and relaxation as you meander the cityscape. As well as effortless “tilt and turn” handling that’s built for tight squeezes, sharp turns and navigating busy public transport. What looks like just a gorgeous little stroller ends up driving like a Tour de France bike: incredibly lightweight but handles like a dream. Stokke® Beat™ has it all.Made for modern families living the urban experience, it has all the features you need in one sleek package. �

• Compact size when folded and unfolded

• Light – weighs only 9.5 kg • True one-hand folding • Excellent maneuverability to handle

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tight corners, narrow streets and public transit Visible shock absorber in the front wheels secures a super smooth ride Large sturdy wheels in puncture-free material High heel and flip-flop safe brake Excellent seat ergonomics for first class comfort Parent and front facing seat that can be folded either way Adjustable footrest and seat that reclines easily using only one hand Extended canopy with a modern shape offers ventilation and protection from outside stimuli like light and noise Double-hinged 360-degree seat rail for safety and easy access

STORIES

Finding his way to fatherhood Danish style.

Rasmus (31), lives in Copenhagen where he grew up and has returned after having lived in the United States, Sweden and Australia. He and his fiancĂŠe Annabel (33), have just purchased their first home and are expecting their first child, a baby boy, in early February 2019. Rasmus works as a Senior Consultant at Deloitte Digital, specializing in Service Design, Customer Experience and User Experience. He is passionate about training and all things technology. Annabel is... ...from New Zealand. She has been living in Copenhagen, Denmark for 18 months after meeting Rasmus when they worked together at an advertising agency in Sydney, Australia. Annabel works as a Senior Strategist in a design agency, Bold Scandinavia, and also has a side-business with a friend, selling kitset rowboats. â&#x2020;&#x2019; www.stitchbird.com

Rasmus tells us how... ...it all started. Back in early June my fiancée, Annabel, had planned a surprise day for me as part of my birthday gift. All she had told me was that I should keep the day free, so I really had no idea what to expect. We got up early and had a nice breakfast, then she gave me the first in a series of cards, each with a new clue written on it. It was an address where we were to collect a luxury car for the day. We packed some beach gear and jumped on our bikes. The weather was gorgeous (uncommon for Denmark!) as we cycled through the center of Copenhagen. I had a feeling it would be a good day, but didn’t realize just how much life was about to change. Throughout the day Annabel handed me cards revealing more details.

After collecting the car, we drove North to a beautiful little beach on the north coast for lunch. It was there, sitting on the beach that she handed me one last card. I looked, thinking it was a hint for the next destination and to my big surprise the card read “Just one more thing… we’re pregnant”. I couldn’t believe it and had to read the card five times before I could comprehend it. A feeling of happiness took over and after a big kiss and hug, we sat silently for a while just letting the news sink in. I thought to myself that this must be the best gift anyone could get. Knowing that she wouldn’t be able to keep it a surprise from me for long, Annabel had only taken the test earlier that morning so that if it was positive, she could reveal it as part of the planned birthday surprise. I needed a swim in the crisp, cold ocean after that to check if it was all real. I dove right in. It was happening.

When I got back to the beach, we started talking about what happens now. So far, all we had to go on was a little stick with two purple lines, so we started researching straight away. We had to wait another six weeks to get a scan of our little person. So much could happen in the meantime; we agreed not to get too excited just yet. Suddenly nine months felt really far away. We talked about how this was going to change our lives completely and all of the things we had to do before the baby comes, but none of it bothered me. I felt ready and couldn’t believe that I was going to be a father. We would be a little family and suddenly I had a whole new purpose in life.

very nervous beforehand and had, quite honestly, prepared ourselves for the worst. The sonographer did the scan without saying too much which was nerve-wracking, but we could immediately hear a heartbeat and began relaxing. My first thought was “phew, there’s really someone in there!” After a few tense minutes and measurements, we received the great news that it was a healthy baby. Feeling a great sense of relief and with a few photos in our hands as we left the hospital, it now felt real. We could finally start telling people and begin preparing for this major event. Over the next few months we didn’t get to prepare as much as we would have liked to, due to buying a house and having the move-in date postponed multiple times.

My first thought was “phew, there’s really someone in there!” Thinking about the kind of father I want to be, I know I want to be present, even if it means making some sacrifices. When I was young, my father was offered a senior position at a major consultancy. Of course, this was a very tempting proposition. He knew, however, that it would mean less time with my sister and me. Consequently, he made the difficult decision to turn down the job. I have always respected him immensely for that. My father has always been there for me, and we have a very close relationship as a result. This is the kind of father I want to be. The decision to take full paternity leave was an obvious one. In my role as a Senior Consultant, I am entitled to two weeks of paid leave when the baby arrives and another 13 weeks on full pay which can be used any time within the first two years. Annabel and I want to spend as much of our parental leave as possible together as a family. She is from New Zealand, so we have decided to spend two months there together so her family can get to know the baby and build their own relationship. It will be summer down-under, so a great opportunity to get married while we’re there too. As mentioned earlier the whole idea of having a baby was very abstract in the beginning. Due to the risks we were conscious about telling anyone initially, but around nine weeks we couldn’t hold back anymore and told our families and a few close friends. Finally the day of the 12 week scan came. We were both

We house sat for friends and then stayed with my parents while waiting for our own home, which was difficult because all we wanted to do was begin nesting and preparing for the baby rather than dealing with house dramas. In the meantime, the months just passed. We had our second scan where we found out that we are having a healthy baby boy and that helped to put things in perspective. Finally, the deal went through and we could move in, now with only four months until the due date – much closer than it had felt before! We got the house up and running within a few weeks, using the baby’s room as storage. We are now getting to the fun part of furnishing our little boy’s nursery. We are lucky to have many friends and cousins with children, so are now armed with lists and recommendations on everything from prams and cloth nappies to car seats and cots. We are slowly getting a clearer idea about what we need and what we don’t and have been kindly given a lot of beautiful baby gear, including a blanket which Annabel’s great grandmother knitted in 1956 and her grandmother and mother both used for all of their children. The only thing that I can conclude from all of the advice is that everyone has different opinions and every child and parent is different. The most important thing seems to be figuring out what works for you. The only piece of consistent advice that I’ve received is to go out as much as possible before the baby comes, so we really need to start taking this into account and getting to the movies and out for dinner more! →

Now there’s only three months until the baby comes and I still feel like there is so much preparation that we need to do. Figuring out which pram to get, which cot to buy or borrow, attending antenatal classes, preparing the baby’s room and more. I still have no idea how to put on a diaper and to be quite frank still feel that there’s a lot to learn before the baby arrives. At the same time, I also know that can’t be fully prepared for what is in store. I’ve been given a few books and have just started reading one called “Bringing up Bébé”. Some friends who are also expecting recommended it and I’m finding it really entertaining. It humorously coverers some of the cultural differences in bringing up children, which being parents from opposite sides of the world is very relevant to Annabel and me. Probably the biggest cultural difference in parenting we’ve found so far is that in Denmark it is common to leave children to sleep outside in their prams, and unattended (with a baby

monitor) outside apartment buildings, shops and cafes. This is not common practice in New Zealand and would probably receive concerned looks from passers-by there, so it’s interesting to compare and contrast these different practices and take what we like from each culture. I think that is the way forward for us – we’ll find our own style of parenting. There is so much advice, so many frameworks and parenting styles that it’s hard to keep track. My plan is to find out what works for us and go with that. I want to be prepared but be flexible enough to abandon anything that’s not working for us. Every baby is different, and I guess the most important thing is that we are aligned in our approach. Despite all of the confusion, the panic about things we need to get ready and new things to learn, I just can’t wait to meet the little fella. I’m so excited to see how this experience will completely change our lives, how we view the world and to experience unconditional love the moment we meet this little person. �

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

S TO K K E ® B E AT ™ The Stokke® Beat™ stroller is the small but mighty new kid on the block.

Canopy Extended canopy with a modern shape offers ventilation, UPF 50+ and protection for your child from outside stimuli like light and noise.

Almost endless seating positions The seat can be adjusted seamlessly with 2 footrest positions always offering your baby the best position. Seat rail Double-hinged 360-degree seat rail for safety and easy access to your baby.

Light & Compact Weighs only 9.5 kg and has a small footprint, even when folded.

Suspension Visible shock absorber in the front wheels secures a super smooth ride.

Chassis With a narrow footprint 53.5 cm, it easily passes any train or subway gate.

Extra-large shopping basket Holds 10 kg of your on-the-go essentials. Large Sturdy Wheels Made of puncture-free materials for durability.

Effortless Maneuvering 360-degree lockable swivel wheels make Stokke® Beat™ extra easy to push over city streets and handle tight corners.

STORIES

Behind the scenes

Stokke customer service The Customer Service teams at Stokke® are at the heart of the company. Not only do they know our products inside and out, they’re also in touch with our customers every single day. Answering questions, collecting feedback and helping you get the most out of your Stokke products, so you can focus on what’s important - spending time with your family.

Patrycja Vierkorn

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We interviewed Patrycja, Team Leader of Customer Care for Stokke, to get her insider perspective. Patrycja joined Stokke nearly three years ago as a Customer Service Representative and has developed her role in the company since.

What drew you to Stokke®? Since my very first interview, I felt excited to be a part of an iconic company and loved the idea of working in an international environment. Since then I have realized how much freedom I have in this company to develop myself, with opportunities to be involved in a wide range of projects. This makes me feel that I am part of a global organization that shares the same vision of making positive changes and innovation. This kind of integrity is important to me. HOW HAS YOUR REAL-LIFE EXPERIENCE AROUND CHILDREN AFFECTED YOUR WORK AT STOKKE?

I am still young and don’t have children yet, but I see myself as a bit of a specialist in communicating with parents. Many of my mummy friends have the Tripp Trapp® chair and they really appreciate the advice I can give regarding

“I think the biggest advantage of our Customer Service is that we care. We go above and beyond to help our customers.”

our products. It’s heartwarming for me to see my friends’ children running up to the Tripp Trapp® chair, happy to have a sit in it, ready for a meal or play time. Stokke customers also mention this emotional bond between their children and our products and it really makes sense to me. DO NEW PARENTS IN YOUR SOCIAL CIRCLES OFTEN COME TO YOU FOR ADVICE?

Yes, I must admit that working at Stokke has had an impact on my personal life- I often get asked by my friends for product advice but this means I also get to hear their feedback which has been really insightful. Lots of them have their own product development ideas, stories to tell about their strollers or car seats. It works both ways! They are also a source of knowledge to me and the rest of the teams here at Stokke. HAVE THERE BEEN ANY STOKKE CUSTOMER SERVICE CASES THAT STOOD OUT TO YOU?

Once a customer called while she was on a walk in the forest - her stroller was having an issue and she was alone with her baby, unsure of what to do. She was understandably upset. My very first concern, however, was getting her and baby home safely. So, we called a taxi service for her and, once we knew she and the baby were settled at home, we got to fixing the stroller too. Providing good service is important to us but I love working for a company where the priority, first and foremost, is always the child. DO YOU HAVE ANY STOKKE CUSTOMER SERVICE STORIES THAT STILL MAKE YOU SMILE?

One customer joked with me that she got pregnant with her second baby in part because she wanted the latest Stokke® Xplory® stroller so much! WITH YOUR EXPERIENCE, WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN TERMS OF GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE?

I always pay attention to a company’s customer service because I think it is a driving force that creates loyalty. Professionalism is key: fast, relevant answers with good language skills and in-depth knowledge. I think the biggest advantage of our Customer Service is that we care. We go above and beyond to help our customers. AS AN EXPERT ON STOKKE PRODUCTS – WHICH ARE YOUR FAVORITES THAT YOU WOULD RECOMMEND TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

Our Tripp Trapp® chair is number one! I love the iconic

design and think it’s an eye-catching product like no other. The Stokke® Trailz™ and Stokke® Xplory® strollers are also among my favorites. I love how your baby is close to you. When I am out walking with my colleagues and their children, I see how other people notice our strollers as they clearly stand out. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST LESSON WORKING AT STOKKE?

To always keep calm and carry on! In the Customer Service team, we have learned to be troubleshooters, problem solvers and good listeners. We practice patience and kindness every day. I always want to show a strong willingness to solve problems but also to put well-being of the child first. I stay positive and see challenges as opportunities. �

NEWS & TRENDS

The Stokke® Stroller Snack Tray The Stokke® Stroller Snack Tray makes snacking onthe-go a walk in the park. The perfect size to hold the Stokke™ Munch™ Snack Pack (cup and bowl), healthy treats and toys, this ingenious tray easily attaches to the seat of all our Stokke strollers. Angle adjustability provides excellent ergonomics as the tray can be placed at just the right position for your baby to keep their things within easy reach while maintaining a safe upright position. Have an earlier model Stokke® Xplory® or Stokke® Trailz™? No problem! It can also be used with previous models of these strollers with the use of an adaptor. * See the Snack Tray on the opposite page.

The Stokke® Stroller range

S TO K K E ® X P LO R Y ® 6

S TO K K E ® T R A I L Z ™

S TO K K E ® B E AT ™

Introduced in 2003, its iconic design continues to be as relevant today as it was then. One of its kind, Stokke® Xplory®’s versatility, convertibility and unique function take stroller innovation to new heights. The ultimate expression of our brand philosophy, every inch of our signature stroller is designed to bring you and your baby closer for bonding and connection.

Stokke Trailz combines functionality with true Scandinavian style. Premium from top to bottom, the black chassis gives Stokke® Trailz™ a sleek and rugged look, while a choice of large, air-filled or puncture-freewheels gives it the ability to handle all terrain in every season. With robust construction, a newly designed seat and upgraded carry cot, your precious cargo is ensured the most comfortable ride, no matter where you go.

Stokke® Beat™ is a compact stroller for all of your city adventures with your baby. “Best in Class” features make it easy to push, fold with the seat unit on and carry away for your on-the-go city lifestyle. Sturdy and strong, this lightweight stroller offers a smooth ride and superb maneuverability. Its small footprint makes it the ideal solution for travel, navigating busy streets and public transit.

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AC C E S S O R I E S

2 Stokke® Stroller Cup Holder

Stokke® Changing Bag Brushed Grey

Stokke® Down Sleeping Bag Pearl White

* Stokke® Stroller Snack Tray (Munch accessories not included)

Explore

Stokke® Stroller Blanket Cable Grey

the world

Together. Stokke® Stroller Mosquito Net

Stokke® PramPack™

Stokke® Stroller Sibling board

Stokke® Blanket Merino Wool Green, Pink & Light Grey

Stokke® Stroller All Weather Inlay

(Fits Stokke® Trailz™ and Stokke® Beat™)

STORIES

Having a baby Stokke style! One of the best things about working at Stokke® is that you often get to see lots of babies and children in the office, most of them Stokke babies! Hans-Cato and Cathrine, both working with Product Development, are proud parents of two beautiful children, Ellen and Eilif. Couples like these give us such valuable feedback about all of our products and we truly love to see our Stokke families grow! But what is it really like having a baby in such a baby-centric company and living in Norway? A Stokke love story...sort of “ This wasn’t really a story of love at first sight…” Cathrine told us. “ In fact, we worked together for more than a year before our mutual love of outdoor activities brought us together. We both enjoy hiking, climbing, skiing, surfing and scuba diving, all of which can be done here on the west coast of Norway. After having children we’ve taken a step back in terms of our outdoor activities but still try to work it into our lives with our children as much as possible. Although we’re not exactly mountain climbing, we still love to take the kids outdoors for short hikes or trips to the water park.” →

Hans-Cato & Cathrine

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Hans-Cato (39) grew up on an island outside of Ă&#x2026;lesund. He studied industrial design in Australia and then returned to Norway where he worked as a design consultant before starting a job at Stokke. Cathrine (31) grew up in a region called Valdres before she moved to Oslo to study product design. After her studies she too got a job at Stokke and moved to Ă&#x2026;lesund.

“Stokke makes it easy for us to work around our schedules after having a new baby.”

THE DECISION TO START A FAMILY

“We always talked about having children but wanted to make sure it was the right time for us and that we both felt ready for it. After some transitions at work, I found myself joking to Hans-Cato that maybe now would be a good time to get pregnant. After a few days, the subject turned into a serious conversation and we decided that maybe this was a good time to begin a new era in our lives. By the next summer, our daughter Ellen was born. Since we wanted our children to be close in age, our son Eilief was born this year, two years apart.

had Ellen, Hans-Cato was able to spend the nights at the hospital with us in our private room which was really nice. In Norway you also receive approximately one year of paid parental leave. This year can be split between parents quite freely. It’s common for most parents that the mother stays at home for much of the time.

HAVING CHILDREN IN NORWAY

With Ellen, I stayed at home for 8 months before returning to work part-time. I did worry at first that this would be too much time away from the office, but it really does fly! There are lots of baby-friendly activities to do in Norway, like baby cinema (with early screenings for mom’s on leave), baby yoga and special outdoor workouts organized for moms with babies.

“We feel really privileged to live in a country that has such good health care. Both of our children were born at the local hospital where the staff took amazing care of us during the delivery and the days following birth. When we

Being at home with our second child is a bit different. Life is more hectic now with two children, so we don’t spend as much time going to coffee shops and enjoying long

up close to us while dining is a great concept. Perhaps it’s not so easy to see the benefit of it when you haven’t used it before but once you have, you really appreciate it. We got the new version to test with Eilif, so the old version now has it’s place on a Tripp Trapp® chair in the bathroom. When you are alone with the baby during daytime they need to be constantly with you, so it’s the perfect place for them to sit and be content while you take a shower!” THE STOKKE SUPPORT SYSTEM

“This wasn’t really a story of love at first sight…” Cathrine told us. strolls like we did with only one child. But Eilif and I have still managed to have our own time together. It’s very calm during the day when Ellen is at kindergarten. This is when the baby and I take it easy and get to enjoy each other.”

“I always enjoyed it when my colleagues brought their new babies to the office for a visit. Looking back, holding their little ones was great practice for what was to come. But I must admit, even though I worked at Stokke, I didn’t find babies that interesting until I had my own. When we announced that we were expecting, we received lots of heartfelt congratulations. Stokke has a family orientated culture. Since so many of my colleagues have been in the same situation as Hans-Cato and me, we can always rely on them for heartfelt advice along the way. My favorite piece of advice that was given to me that I would pass on? Don’t plan more than one thing each day - especially with a newborn! Stokke has been a great support system for us and, now more than ever, we feel like it has become more than a workplace but a part of our family too.” �

THE PERKS OF HAVING A STOKKE BABY

“Stokke makes it easy for us to work around our schedules after having a new baby. We are lucky to have that kind of flexibility. Currently, both Hans-Cato and I are in part-time paternal leave until Eilif starts kindergarten and base our schedules around our family commitments. There are some other great perks about working for a baby-centric company like Stokke when you start a family. Employees get to try out the products and even receive some as a gift up to a specified amount. Stokke also offers employees a discount, and of course, we are welcome to some of the spare samples found around the office! When Ellen was born, we chose the Stokke® Trailz™ stroller but also got our hands on the Stokke® Scoot™ as it was right after the stroller Carry Cot launch and it would be perfect for testing. We loved it because it was so small and compact. It was perfect for our lifestyle and fit in our little VW Golf. We also used the whole Stokke® Home™ series set-up as well as Tripp Trapp®, the Stokke® Steps™ Bouncer, Stokke® MyCarrier™ and Stokke® Flexi Bath®... we really are a Stokke family inside and out. One of the items that really stood out for us was the Tripp Trapp® Newborn Set. The concept of bringing the baby

STORIES

Sharing the adventure Traveling with a baby? It’s not everyone’s idea of a great vacation. But Rebecca, a seasoned traveller with a young child and pregnant with her second says “Why not?”. Rebecca (30) is half French, half German and currently living in Berlin with her husband and their son Leo. The couple have always loved to travel and are set to continue living their passion with their young family.

You can find...

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...Rebecca on Instagram at instagram.com/myrivegauche/ and check out her inspirational blog at www.myrivegauche.com. She takes us through her experience of travels with a 9-month-old and tells us why it’s so important to pursue these precious moments of quality time and making memories.

WHY TRAVEL IS SO IMPORTANT TO US, EVEN WITH A YOUNG BABY

Travel has always been important to us. We travelled to many places before having Leo and we were quite an adventurous couple. Every time we travel, we meet people with different perspectives that inspire us. I love the feeling and excitement of planning a trip, packing my bags and discovering new countries and cultures.

Traveling as a family is definitely different and can be challenging as you are much slower and have a bit more to consider. But the intense moments you are able to share with your children are worth it! We are really fortunate to have experienced spending so much time together - just the three of us, without the distractions of daily life. We had the opportunity to focus on Leo and he was able to enjoy both Mom and Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s undivided â&#x2020;&#x2019;

Leo and his dad sharing an on-the-go snack while exploring together in Berlin.

attention. It seemed to make him very happy, and sharing this time together was really important for us. We believe that traveling with our baby enriched his life in ways that we may never have considered before. When Leo was 9 months old, we went to South Africa. We were able to create wonderful memories, watching Leo take in new experiences like bathing outdoors in the warm and sunny weather, taking in the smell of the sea breeze, and seeing the intense colors of botanical gardens. Even the evening sunsets seemed to capture his attention. He especially loved spending quality time with Dad. From spontaneous pillow fights in the hotel room, to building sandcastles together and jumping

â&#x20AC;&#x153;He especially loved spending quality time with Dad.â&#x20AC;? into the waves; father and son truly had some adventures. As parents, we got the feeling that this trip sharpened Leoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senses and awareness even though he was just 9 months old. Especially with older kids, family trips are valuable as they can vastly broaden and expand their horizons, while teaching them open-mindedness and respect for other cultures and traditions. Learning through the eyes of a child is very different from the way we learn as adults. Children and their parents get to spend more time with each other, while discovering and exploring

Before going on our big trip to South Africa, we had already taken Leo on a couple of excursions abroad which was great practice for us.

the world. Such trips can not only fuel your child’s curiosity but can be one of the most rewarding experiences a family can have together. HOW WE EXPLORED CAPE TOWN WITH A 9-MONTH-OLD

Before going on our big trip to South Africa, we had already taken Leo on a couple of excursions abroad which was great practice for us. When he was 3 months old, we spent 3 weeks in the wine region of France. When he turned 6 months old, we explored the city of Barcelona with him using the Stokke® MyCarrier™.

Then when Leo was 9 months, we decided to leave Europe and spend a month in South Africa. We wanted to escape the harsh winter temperatures in Europe and have some bonding family time. So, with these goals in mind, my husband and I took a shared parental leave in February and booked a trip to Cape Town. Our journey began with a night flight and, as our son Leo was sleeping most of the time, we could start our holiday with a relaxed baby. We recommend taking a carrier like the Stokke® MyCarrier™ with you to carry your baby to the gate and to walk up and down the corridors →

Enjoying family time around the table.

during the flight if needed. For our first long journey the minimal time difference was important to us. We chose Cape Town because there’s hardly any time difference compared with Berlin. We spent almost 4 weeks exploring the area around the Cape of Good Hope. South Africa is an incredibly beautiful and child-friendly country with stunning sunsets! We found that many women there carry their babies on their backs. We got inspired and carried Leo with the Stokke® MyCarrier™ on our backs while walking along white sandy beaches and hiking. It was so key that we took this carrier with us as it helped us to be more flexible. We also made use of the foldable Stokke® Flexi Bath® which was easy to pack and was great for bathing outdoors in the gorgeous weather.

IT’S NOT TOO EARLY TO CREATE THOSE WONDERFUL FAMILY ADVENTURES

In these weeks we have grown even stronger as a small family and created countless unforgettable memories. Who knows how much Leo really took with him from this trip and whether he remembers anything. It somehow doesn’t really matter as we feel that it did him a lot of good to have spent so many intimate moments with us and, through him, we see the world through different eyes too. The cherished moments we had together will stay in our hearts forever and are truly life enriching. Whatever you do, don’t be afraid to travel with your baby. They are more flexible than we believe and especially while they are so small it’s the ideal time to travel and to start an amazing family adventure! �

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

S TO K K E ® X P LO RY ® 6 First introduced in 2003. The Stokke® Xplory® is built to bring your baby closer for connection.

Canopy The extendable Canopy with visor offers built-in ventilation and UPF 50+ for your child’s protection. It also functions as a window to keep an eye on your baby.

Seat rail Ingenious hinged seat rail provides easy access to your child and doubles as a carry handle for the carry cot. High-quality leatherette handle carefully selected for its durability and eco-friendly qualities.

Chassis The one-step-folding chassis is compatible with all Stokke® Xplory® Seats and Carry Cots, making it possible to update your stroller with the latest features and accessories.

Styling options The Seat has a wide variety of style kits to suit both warm and cold weather – we know that just because the weather changes, your desire to get out and about with your baby doesn’t.

Pioneering adjustability The adjustable seat height not only brings your baby closer to you but also accommodates café and restaurant tables, making it easy to enjoy lunch out with your little one.

Extendable shopping bag A detachable shopping bag holds 32 liters when extended and zips closed to keep your things safe while you are out and about. Made of supremely robust fabrics, the new bag is easy to wipe clean.

Effortless maneuvering 360-degree lockable swivel wheels make the Stokke® Xplory® stroller a dream to push.

STORIES

Tasty tips for tiny tummies

time to try new food?

Children are picky when it comes to trying new types of food ... Or are they? You’ve been in the kitchen... ...for hours. Well, maybe you haven’t been cooking for hours, but you’ve made the firm decision that today your little angel is going to try something new to eat. Many parents can relate to the frustration of their children not wanting to try new food, or that the first bite of the feast is spat out faster than it went in. “Ew, don’t want it!” “It is important to know that children may have to taste something up to ten times before they learn to like it,” says Food and Nutrition Counselor Britt Marlene Kåsin. “As adults, knowing this makes it easier for us to cope with a ‘yuck’ or a ‘no’. That some children can be seen as ‘picky’ can often be related to our own expectations as parents than to whether the children actually are picky,” adds Kåsin, responsible for content on matstart.no. This website has recipes for children and youths, where enjoying food and having a sense of empowerment are the focus.

NATURAL SCEPTICISM

“Moving from breast milk to solid food is a big change for a child. They must learn to deal with new and unknown consistencies. Learning to like new flavors is also a process that all children must go through. Think back to when you first tasted coffee. It probably took several cups before you began to get used to it. The road to liking a strong cup of coffee usually starts with a sweet café latté, or a coffee with a good dose of milk and sugar. With this in mind, it is no wonder that children are sometimes sceptical,” says the nutrition counselor. “Coffee is bitter, and bitterness is something we are naturally cautious of. Bitter flavors, which are found in broccoli and other vegetables, are often difficult to get children to eat. It is believed this is because poisonous plants found in nature also are bitter. This is a natural caution that has remained with us through evolution,” Kåsin explains. →

Britt Marlene Kåsin

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Britt is a Norwegian food and nutrition counselor for MatPrat.no and is responsible for content on matstart.no, which shares recipes and encourages children to enjoy food.

“From the time we are born, we have a natural preference towards the basic sweet and salty tastes.”

“ Don’t give up, but don’t pressure your child to eat. If a child feels pressured, it can bring up negative emotions around the breakfast or dinner table.”

INNATE SWEET AND SALTY CRAVINGS

From the time we are born, we have a natural preference toward the basic sweet and salty tastes. Amniotic fluid in the womb is salty, and breast milk is sweet. “Salt, in the right quantities, is something the body needs. From an evolutionary perspective, it would be counterproductive if an infant didn’t enjoy the sweet taste of breast milk,” says Kåsin. This might be the reason why sweet things are very popular, while other foods can be a test of patience. And patience is key for those who want to teach their children to enjoy a varied diet. “Don’t give up, but don’t pressure your child to eat. If a child feels pressured, it can bring up negative emotions around the breakfast or dinner table. Food should be a

“Children may have to taste something up to ten times before they learn to like it.” natural part of the day, and children usually get what they need. Don’t worry. If your child doesn’t eat dinner, they usually make up for this by having an evening snack,” says the nutrition counselor.

1. INTRODUCE YOUR CHILD TO TASTING EARLY.

Even during pregnancy, you can try to eat foods with different flavors. Breast milk can also be flavored by what the mother eats.

Make eating easy with S TO K K E ™ M U N C H ™

tasty winners!

2. PREPARE THEM FOR THE FLAVORS TO COME.

Even if your child has not started on solid foods, you can get them ready for new flavors. Use a clean finger and let your child get to know flavors like tomato, apple and grape.

Grapes

3. INTEGRATE FLAVORS.

When your child progresses to solid foods, it’s a good idea to integrate different types of produce in mashes and porridges. Combine something bitter with something sweet to blend flavors with things that your children already like with something new.

Apples

4. CHILDREN LIKE TO DECIDE FOR THEMSELVES.

Offer healthy options for them to choose from such as sliced fruit and vegetables. Set out healthy sandwich spreads they can choose to eat with breakfast. Try giving your child three healthy dinner options they can choose from to decide for themselves.

Tomatoes

5. DON’T GIVE UP.

Let your child taste new flavors and textures many times. Taste and consistency are something they have to get used to. If your child refuses to taste something new, don’t get frustrated. Try again in a few days.

Porridge

6. ALLOW YOUR CHILDREN IN THE KITCHEN.

Children who help prepare meals and become familiar with the food they eat are more likely to taste the food when it is served at the dinner table. Give your little one simple tasks that create a sense of empowerment and make them feel that they are participating. TIPS TO ENCOURAGE KIDS TO TRY NEW FOOD.

Did you know that children may need to taste something up to ten times before they learn to like it? Children who taste many different types of food when they are small often have a more wide and varied diet when they are older.

7. BE A GOOD ROLE MODEL.

Our children look up to us and often adopt our habits. If Dad removes the tomato from the salad, you can expect your child to do the same. 8. BE PRESENT AT MEALTIME.

Create a calm and pleasant atmosphere when you eat together. It’s not always an easy thing to do during your hectic days, but try. A relaxed dinner never goes out of fashion. �

Still the Revolutionary The designer who set a new standard for sitting.

He’s been designing for over 60 years. He’s an icon and true renaissance man by any measure. He paints, writes, campaigns for the environment and designs some of the most eye-catching furniture in the market. Through it all, he’s still standing by his stance on sitting. In fact, he’s doubling down. Almost 80 years old and more passionate than ever, Peter Opsvik doesn’t sit still, and he doesn’t think you should either.

Peter Opsvik in his workshop

On the left side of this illustration you see the situation before 1972. On the right side the situtaion after 1972 with the Tripp Trapp® chair.

Thoughtful, kind,... ...sentimental but tough as nails and in no mood to compromise, the designer is no stranger to controversy and surprises his audience of the Tripp Trapp® chair enthusiasts at Stokke® by saying “Hey, it’s a great chair but I think it should be used as little as possible”. This iconic Norwegian designer has a huge body of work that includes some of the most recognizable, memorable designs of our time. His chairs alone include Garden (part of Globe Concept, Moment), HÅG Capisco® (Flokk), Balans Variabel (Varier) and Nomi (Evomove). Our favorite, Tripp Trapp®, is even in the permanent collection at MOMA in New York, Design Museum in London, The Vitra Museum in Germany and Victoria and Albert Museum, London. The number of awards he has won over the years are too many to mention. Most of Opsvik’s designs have unusual shapes and when

confronted with them, one often has to think about how to actually use them. Some look more like art installations than furniture, but don’t be fooled, they’re beyond comfortable. What makes the design so revolutionary is the thought behind it. In the words of the designer, they are very much inspired by his Scandinavian way of life which encompasses two main themes – freedom and most importantly, movement. The body is made to move and this is something he had known and advocated for since the 1970’s when he weighed in on the prevailing questions amongst ergonomists at the time. He shows us in a single 20-year-old sketch (below) that remains unchanged. Much like Opsvik, it offers an answer to a complex question in the most simple, illustrative way. It has been said that the best leaders demonstrate – and he did.

“The best sitting posture is, after a while, the next.”

Perhaps inspired by his foray into Grandfather-hood, he invites us to revisit the whole concept of child rearing through the eyes of the design of the Tripp Trapp® chair. Everything in him, including his close work with physiotherapists, has convinced him that the best place for children to be is on the ground. He likens small children to bouncing balls and even does a quite charming rendition of how children move with a body that has not seen childhood in quite some time. The ground offers the child the freedom to explore and move in a way that is natural to them. It is here that they learn balance, coordination and literally find their footing. This was one of the driving concepts for the Tripp Trapp® chair; one of the goals being to bring the floor to the child which is cleverly accomplished with the footplate. It is this enduring commitment to design that we wanted to ask Peter Opsvik about: →

Moment Globe Garden

HÅG Capisco®

Tripp Trapp® Cylindra

Peter at home with his children in the 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

I am a strong believer in the values of â&#x20AC;&#x153;life around the tableâ&#x20AC;? and to allow children and adults to interact.

“Giving children the freedom to safely fail and to learn from it helps to instill a sense of confidence.” You have a huge body of work that includes some of the most recognizable and memorable designs of our time. Which products would you like to highlight? Which are the most important to you and why?

If you asked which of my products has been most important for the users, I’ll say the Tripp Trapp® chair (Stokke) and Capisco® (HÅG). Both these products respond to and solve functional challenges and they have a distinct or unconventional visual design. Some may call them timeless and that has given them a long life. You are clearly firm in your commitment to encourage movement. When did this begin and why is it so important to you and central to your design?

My interest for this field started early on and there is a simple reason for it: I realised that movement and ability to change postures are prerequisites for comfortable sitting. The best position is always the next one. Perhaps this can be underscored by looking at the Balans Variable that came in 1979, the name highlighted the functionality of the product.

strapped in and they cannot move? Or is it a chair like the Tripp Trapp® that allows children freedom of movement? In the beginning, the child is supported by the Tripp Trapp® chair baby rail and when the child gradually masters the skills of sitting actively; moving, changing postures etc., the rail can be removed. The next target for the child is to master climbing up into the chair and down by themselves. I am convinced the latter, the freedom concept, is best for the child. How does being Scandinavian influence the way you design?

In Norway, instead of an “upper class” that sought typical stylish design products, we have been more focused on solving our everyday problems. This Scandinavian equality principle can also be seen as a background for the Tripp Trapp® chair. When children are elevated, the height differences are reduced and this may improve the interaction between children and grown-ups when sitting at the same table. Life around the table becomes more relaxed, and children find it easier to concentrate when the physical environment has been adapted to their size and needs. It is common in the Nordic cultures for the family to share mealtimes. I am a strong believer in the values of “life around the table” and to allow children and adults to interact.

What benefits does freedom of movement offer to the individual?

The alternative to freedom is not very attractive and freedom of movement is important to human beings. Capisco (the saddle chair) is an example of one of my concepts that provides freedom and opens up for a number of good sitting postures; sideways, back-to-front etc. As this question comes from Stokke my answer here is mainly focused on the importance of allowing children freedom of movement. Children need to learn and master every day challenges, they need to learn to crawl, sit, walk, climb stairs etc. All activities include a potential risk. Hopefully, the children, with help of caring adults, gradually learn to master the various activities and are then able to develop a realistic sense of the actual risk. Giving children the freedom to safely fail and to learn from it helps to instill a sense of confidence. What is a “safe” highchair? Is it a chair where children are

The Tripp Trapp® designer’s inspiration came from watching his own young son Tor - having grown out of his traditional highchair, but still far too small for an adult’s chair. Stokke® archive photo from 1972.

Your passions aren’t limited to design. Amidst many activities you’re a musician, artist, writer and environmentalist. What is your main focus now and what inspires you?

If you are a creative person, one constantly strives to express oneself and create new and better solutions for every day challenges. However, I also take great pleasure to work with art objects. These objects may be described as a contrast to my more functional projects and may be described as being between furniture and sculptures. Your designs are unconventional but, perhaps more importantly, they are relevant. Why do you think this is?

Although good industrial design needs to meet a number of criteria, I usually start with the functional needs. I tend to look at products as an aid, as a tool if you like, maybe that’s the reason. Another aspect may be that I have

avoided the short-term fashion trends in the visual form of my products. You have achieved a lot and have contributed so much to the Scandinavian Design portfolio. Looking back, what do want your legacy to be?

My most important contribution to furniture design has been developing chairs that inspire the user to move and vary the posture while sitting. Back in the nineteen eighties when the various authorities in ergonomics were all fighting for their (one and only) sitting posture, my comment was that all of them were right. My job has been to create maximum possibilities for different sitting postures into chairs, and to make it easy to move and change as frequently as possible between them. I hope my contribution has broken the norms of static sitting and opened up for freedom of movement and variation of postures while sitting. �

Tripp Trapp® The chair that grows with the child™ 50

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

TRIPP TRAPP® The Tripp Trapp® Chair is truly a chair with a long history and a story all its own. You may already know that, when adjusted correctly, it ensures your child a correct seating position at any age. But did you also know …

#chairforlife

High quality wood The Tripp Trapp® Chair has a 7-year warranty. Made of solid European Beech, Oak or Ash the chair is extremely durable and designed to last for life.

Engraving You can engrave the chair to make it personal.

Adjustable Seating You can buy the Tripp Trapp® Chair for your child ... or for you! A chair with history Ever since Norwegian designer Peter Opsvik created it in 1972, millions of children have grown up using the Tripp Trapp® Chair.

Styling options The Tripp Trapp® Chair offers many styling options so that families can customize it and make it their own. The chair and baby set come in several colors, and a new cushion collection in a wide range of colors and patterns, that fit every stage. This makes it possible to create numerous unique variations!

Over 11 million chairs sold If you were to place 11 million Tripp Trapp® Chairs end to end from top to bottom, they would create a chain that would almost reach from Oslo to Shanghai.

NEWS & TRENDS

Tripp Trapp® Limited Edition Ash Getting back to nature is trending strong in 2019 as a new generation of parents seek balance in their lives. Here in Norway, it’s not a trend, it’s a way of life. Bring a little piece of nature home and experience the genius and beauty of Scandinavian design at its best with our award-winning Tripp Trapp® chair in limited edition, premium Ash wood. Chosen for its high quality and rich look, the densely veined wood of the ash tree reveals multi-dimensional rings in both pale and deep tones. This swirled marble effect creates a unique pattern for each chair, ensuring that

this limited edition is truly one of a kind. To enhance the intricate pattern of the ash grain, the Tripp Trapp® Limited Edition Ash chairs have been finished with a sophisticated matte lacquer in on-trend taupe. A design favorite, taupe is the perfect blend of tan and grey making it a modern classic and versatile enough to complement any interior. The appearance of your Tripp Trapp® Ash chair will differ according to which segment of the tree the wooden part is made of. This means that you will own a chair as individual as you and your child.

Did you know:

Every minute a baby is born... Having a baby soon? You're in good company. Approximately 270 babies come into the world each minute.

Stylish & Smart - Tripp Trapp® Storage Made exclusively for our iconic chair, Tripp Trapp® Storage is perfect for small spaces or parents who love to stay organized. Designed to attach seamlessly onto your Tripp Trapp®, it neatly holds baby’s bibs, utensils and mealtime must-haves all within arm’s reach. When your little one grows into a toddler or young child they’ll love keeping all their games, art and homework supplies in their favourite chair, ready to use at family time around the table.

AC C E S S O R I E S

2 Tripp Trapp® Storage

Tripp Trapp® Newborn Set Grey

Stokke® Harness Ezpe by Stokke Pink ™

Stokke® Tray White

™

A Seat at the

Stokke® Table Top

table.

Tripp Trapp® Classic Cushion White Mountain

4 Tripp Trapp® with Baby Set Serene Pink

Stokke™ Munch™

Stokke® Steps™ Newborn Set Greige

STORIES

Raising a happy, healthy child is something that none of us take for granted. It’s a journey that bonds us together globally; beyond political views, religion and financial status, we all value this important part of life. The idea that many mothers and babies still do not have access to quality antenatal and newborn care can seem unfathomable. But the reality is that, in countries of crisis or with poor health care systems, women’s lives and those of their babies are placed at risk every day.

Keeping our promise. Our promise at Stokke® is to help bring parents and children closer. This is at the core of everything we do, and you will see it reflected in all of our products and the special relationship we have with Stokke families all over the world. We talk a lot about child-focused design and family life from all over the world, but we need to acknowledge that many parents and babies do not get the basic health care and support they need. This is why we’ve chosen to partner with Doctors Without Borders, to support their life-changing projects across many areas of humanitarian crisis which includes maternal and child health.

A harsh reality

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Here are just some of the critical issues being faced by families every day: THE RIGHT SUPPORT DURING BIRTH

Key fact: 2.9-million newborns and 290,000 mothers experience unnecessary risk to their health just before, during and after childbirth every year (The Lancet)

Over the years there has been growing support for educating women about their health and wellbeing during pregnancy, but this is simply not enough. Access to free basic healthcare and specially trained, skilled attendants at birth are critical for both mother and baby. →

From Norway, to China, to Australia and beyond; no matter where we are, we have the same wish when starting or growing our family. To have a safe pregnancy, delivery and a healthy baby. However, depending on where you happen to be in the world, many parents are unable to experience this.

Stokke supports Doctors Without Borders Giving children the best start in life... no matter where they are

Photo: Brendan Bannon

Photo: Laurence Geai/Docters Without Borders

When many of us think about our support when giving birth we think about doctors, nurses, midwives, doulaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s...and possibly many more. But many rural clinics in the poorer parts of the world are only open during limited hours, are generally short staffed and lack a skilled birth attendant. Doctors Without Borders have developed

low-cost obstetric and referral programs that have been shown to rapidly reduce maternal health dangers by up to 74%. TREATING COMPLICATIONS DURING PREGNANCY

Key fact: At least 15% of all pregnant women worldwide encounter a serious complication (Doctors Without Borders).

In 2018 the Stokke donation went to a Doctors Without Borderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s maternity hospital in Khost, Afghanistan.

“Access to free basic healthcare and specially trained, skilled attendants at birth are critical for both mother and baby.”

to sexual violence survivors, fistula treatment, post-abortion care, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. FEEDING MOTHER AND BABY

Key fact: Malnutrition is a major worldwide issue with an estimated 195 million children suffering from the effects of malnutrition: 90% living in subSaharan Africa and South Asia. (Doctors Without Borders)

While most of us don’t have to worry about putting some sort of basic meal on the table every day for our family, malnutrition remains one of the most prevalent and devastating humanitarian issues worldwide. It’s also one of the most complex issues to tackle; requiring the combined agreement on efforts between governments and humanitarian organizations. Doctors Without Borders is one of those organizations that works to develop longterm, sustainable systems and programs to deal with what most of us would agree is an unnecessary and tragic hardship facing families in today’s world. Some of the options they’re looking in to include decentralizing treatment and prevention and assigning non-medical workers to provide that care. Making less expensive, locally-produced nutritional products available; and developing simple, inexpensive systems that provide access to foods for children. This may sound like a scary statistic but the biggest effect it has is on those who are forced to live in conflict zones, refugee camps or poor living conditions due to environmental disasters. They need and deserve the same critical healthcare as you or I might but often, through no fault of their own, do not have access to it. Doctors Without Borders prioritizes provid-

ing life-saving, emergency obstetric care in both acute and chronic humanitarian crises. This includes the skilled medical staff, drugs and equipment needed to save both mother and baby in times of need.

SO MUCH MORE…

Additional sexual and reproductive healthcare provided also includes antenatal and postnatal care, family planning, assistance

To find out more about their great work and how you can support them be sure to visit DoctorsWithoutBorders.org

These are just a few of the projects that this inspirational organization is facing head on every single day. Doctors Without Borders are doing incredible work from across the world to right here on your own doorstep. �

STORIES

Raising Self-Reliant Children Using her experience as a doctor and a mom, Dr. Levine shares her passion and advice for raising children that will become successful adults. She believes that this begins early and that parents should consider what their children can do for themselves and more importantly let them do it. As your child grows, little by little, you’ll be transferring responsibility to them, thereby empowering your child to solve problems. When you empower your child from the start and resist solving their problems for them, children gain confidence and know that you believe in them and all that they can do. Dr. Alanna Levine

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Dr. Levine is a successful New York based pediatrician and mother of Sophie and Charlie. She has appeared on TV and in print, speaking about breaking medical news and common parenting topics. She’s served on the executive committee for the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Council on Communications and Media and is well versed in AAP policies. Outside the exam room, she devotes her time to helping parents make healthy choices for their children.

Dr. Alanna Levine, Sophie and Charlie.

Here in Scandinavia, we have a long tradition of giving children the freedom to grow in a safe environment and generally giving them a lot of independence. As Dr. Levine’s philosophy is so in line with our own, we wanted to ask her some questions and learn more. You’re a busy mother and pediatrician with a successful practice yet you’ve devoted your time to writing a book on raising self-reliant children – what inspired you?

I wanted to compile a resource for families that contained

“Seeing the excitement on your child’s face or hearing the words, “I did it myself!” happen pretty quickly.”

the information I found myself repeating daily in my office. Pediatricians are frequently asked for their advice on how to feed children, how to get them to sleep well, how to toilet train them. I realized there was an underlying philosophy that applied to so many scenarios. If I could explain the main concept and give examples, then parents would be empowered to use the principles to guide their parenting. Why do you think that learning to do things for yourself is so important?

Having the confidence to believe you can do something is critical to becoming a successful adult. It is what will allow you to take risks and stretch outside of your comfort zone. And, doesn’t it feel great to accomplish something on your own? You recommend starting to teach your children early on. Can you give us an example of how you can begin with very young children?

By 6 months, most babies will try to get objects or toys that are out of reach. If you notice that your child wants something, encourage her to reach for it and retrieve it. If you simply hand it to her, she is missing out on the opportunity to learn that she can do it. Next time, she will be more likely to wait for you to give it to her than reach for it herself. She also misses out on the delight of figuring out that she has the skills needed to get what she wants. Some of the techniques you recommend take some time. What do you tell parents that may be intimidated by this or worry that they may not have the time?

Patience is a key word in parenting. It takes enormous patience to watch your child figure out how to do something autonomously when you know you can do it faster. However, if you sit back and watch your toddler struggle to put his pants on, at some point he will have mastery of the skill and will be dressing himself while you are doing something else. If your morning routine is rushed, teach the skill in the evening with pajamas or on the weekends. Taking the time in the beginning usually yields more time later on.

words, “I did it myself!” happen pretty quickly. Some parents may worry that failing at a task or getting something wrong might be frustrating for their little one. How can parents overcome that fear?

We all want to protect our children all of the time. But that is not practical, nor is it advisable. We want children to become adults who have already learned how to handle disappointment and failure and bounce back. Resilience is such an important trait for both children and adults. It’s better for children to learn these skills early on so they can be practiced when the stakes are lower during childhood.

“If you invest the time early on, the payout will be tremendous.” What do you tell parents who worry they lack the patience and are tempted to give up?

I advise parents to try with one small task and see how it goes. The outcome will likely encourage them to continue to apply the techniques to other areas of the child’s life. What does a confident child look like?

A confident child is one that is persistent and continues to try even when they are struggling. How does learning to be self-reliant help children as they grow up?

Nobody knows how to do everything. Learning at an early age that you have the skills to seek and acquire new information, and that you have the patience to keep trying until you succeed will help children grow into confident capable adolescents and young adults.

Once you begin, does it take long to see results?

If you could only give parents one piece of advice to raise a confident child, what would it be?

It does not take long to see results. Seeing the excitement on your child’s face or hearing the

Patience and persistence pay off. If you invest the time early on, the payout will be tremendous. �

STORIES

The high-flying parent-preneurs â&#x201E;¢ of JetKids

First Class Travel

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How can we make something safe, child-friendly, parent-friendly, plane-friendly and functionally convenient but still good looking and fun for our children to use?

Picture this: A tense, bustling, crowded economy section of a plane, filled with restless travelers preparing themselves for a toilsome long-haul journey. A couple are seated in the middle of the cabin with their young daughter. She gazes out of the window, wide-eyed in delight, totally unaware of her parents’ nerves as they anxiously anticipate how the rest of the journey will go on this first ﬂight together. After the initial excitement... ...has worn off, their little travel companion starts to wriggle, kick and squirm as she tries to find a comfortable position to fall asleep. It has been a long day and this flight will feel much longer with a tired, frustrated little one. Her parents hurriedly cram bags, coats and pillows in front of her seat to try and create a footrest, but this just makes a bigger mess. They consider letting her lie on the floor but...really? They couldn’t entertain the thought. In the end, their worn out wee one finds a just-bearable-enough snug spot sprawled across her parents laps where they have resigned themselves to not moving for the next 9 hours.

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Christina and Halvor with two of their three children, Nora 11 years old, and Emrik 8 years old.

The JetKids™ by Stokke® RideBox™

This is followed by the exchange of desperate glances between mom and dad as the flight attendant then asks them to fasten their child’s seat belt. “There has to be a better way” they thought. And while most of us would agree, we would probably endure through gritted teeth as we accept that this is just part of the woes of travelling with a young child. But this was no ordinary couple. They knew there was a better way and they had the industry expertise to figure it out and the entrepreneurial gusto (and parental determination) to go out and build it

If any couple was going to solve this problem, then it would be this high-flying pair of power parent-preneurs.

MEET CHRISTINA AND HALVOR.

Rather than keeping their ideas a daydream, they set to work creating prototypes; configuring, testing and lending to all their travelling parent friends to get feedback and then re-designing again and again. →

The story of why Christina and Halvor founded JetKids™ was a similar one to this and they knew they had to do something about it.

Christina has both an education and career background in the travel sector. This includes being CEO and founder of an online retail store specializing in travelling with young children. Halvor is likewise an expert in his industry, working for nearly 20 years with some of the biggest airlines in pilot education and aircraft engineer education. He also served as an airline captain and mechanic.

OFFERING A SOLUTION THAT WON’T ADD TO THE LOAD.

“There has to be a better way.”

Slee

p-on

There were a lot of questions to answer. How can our children sleep comfortably on seats that, quite frankly, most adults struggle to contend with? How can we bring more solutions with us on the journey without adding to the plethora of bulky items we already have to drag through terminals, security and beyond? How can we make something safe, child-friendly, parent-friendly, plane-friendly and functionally convenient but still good looking and fun for our children to use? THE ANSWER WAS THE JETKIDS™ BEDBOX™.

Christina and Halvor knew that good ideas are worth sharing and partnered with expert designers and innovators to create the JetKids™ Bedbox™: A premium quality ride-on, carry-on and sleep-on suitcase that can solve the stress issues of travelling with young children. They made travel more fun, comfortable and full of good memories for our mini travelers, which is what we all want as parents.

Ride-on

The hard work was worth it. Launching the Jetkids™ BedBox™ was a complete success. The JetKids Crew fanbase spread worldwide and Christina and Halvor were honored to receive awards for innovation in multiple categories. Then, in 2018, JetKids joined the Stokke family and together they developed the JetKids™ by Stokke® Bedbox™ and the JetKids™ by Stokke® Ridebox™.

Travelling, like all parts of life with a young child, can be unpredictable and nerve wracking, no matter how much you plan and prepare. Sometimes we have to learn to go with the flow and take it as it comes. Other times those moments of “There has to be a better way” are answered by problem-solving parents like Christina and Halvor. This is how a good idea turns into a real solution that benefits families. INSIDER TIPS FOR MAKING TRAVEL WITH THE FAMILY A SMOOTH RIDE:

“We had an inside joke before boarding a flight that with 3 extra changes of clothing, 1 whole pack of diapers and more than we could possibly need, we might just make it,” recalls Christina remembering an early

“We had an inside joke before boarding a flight that with 3 extra changes of clothing, 1 whole pack of diapers and more than we could possibly need, we might just make it,”

flight with their first child. “But the flight had to make an overnight stop in Iceland due to extreme weather and we were left with only what we had taken on the flight. Now I know it’s a good idea to be prepared for anything!” - Try to stick to your normal routines as much as possible. From meal times to sleep time, if you can maintain some predictability and keep your routines during your journey it will help keep your little one happy and relaxed. - Give a quick call to the airline. They know their own policies and it’s good for you to be aware in advance what services and offers they have for young families. - Pack wisely and for quick-access. Packing cubes are great to store everything in a small space and in an organized way. You don’t want to be searching for your travel-essentials in a messy, crammed bag at 2am on a red eye flight.

Ca rr y- on

- Bring lots of healthy snacks and try to avoid sugar (but also allow for lollipops). Routine and healthy foods are always the goal, but sometimes you have to be lenient or creative. Lollipops are a great option because they take a long time to eat and can help with ear pain during changes in air pressure. - Don’t forget your sense of humor. Going places is an adventure. �

NEWS & TRENDS

Make mealtimes EZPZ™!

Introducing the ezpz™ placemat by Stokke™ Let’s face it, time around the table is great for family bonding, but it can be messy. That’s why we’ve teamed up with innovative and renown ezpz™ to offer the ezpz™ Placemat by Stokke™ customized for our Stokke® Tray and the Stokke® Steps™ Baby Set Tray. This all-in-one placemat with bowls is made to firmly fit the Stokke® Tray for our iconic Tripp Trapp® high chair, and the Stokke® Steps™ Baby Set Tray used for our versatile Stokke® Steps™ high chair. The unique functionality means that it stays in place to contain those inevitable spills at mealtimes and prevents tipped bowls and plates. Most parents will agree that tidier is better, but more importantly ezpz™ by Stokke™ placemat makes it easier for your little one to enjoy learning to self-feed. When meal time is over, they make clean-up a snap – just place them in the dishwasher. Made of high-quality food grade silicone, it is strong, durable and made to last. For your convenience, they’re also microwave safe for hassle-free heating.

STOKKE ™ MUNCH ™

We’ve got a new treat when it’s time to eat! Learning to eat is one of your baby’s most important firsts. Whether you’re snacking on-the-go or dining at the table, Stokke™ Munch™ has everything your little one needs to make the most of mealtimes. Our dinnerware and cutlery are ergonomic, making them easy for little hands to hold and handle. The Stokke™ Munch™ collection is designed to help encourage self-feeding, making it fun and easier than ever. Stokke™ Munch™ is made of high quality and safe food grade silicone, they are strong and durable so they won’t break. Made to hold just the right amount of food for tiny tummies, the collection includes a supersoft bib, ergonomic spoon and fork, a stackable, space-saving plate, and even a cup and bowl with anti-drip soft silicone lids.

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

S TO K K E ® S T E P S ™ Stokke® Steps™ is a unique modular-seating concept that can easily be adapted to your child’s needs from birth, step by step as your child grows.

Timeless Contemporary Scandinavian design makes it friendly for all interiors.

Newborn Set Can be used together with the Stokke® Steps™ Newborn Set bringing your newborn to the table.

Ergonomic The rounded generous seat and back are comfortable for your child and provide optimal ergonomics.

Easy Feeding Easy to feed your baby with the comfortable baby set and tray.

Easy to Adjust The easy tool-free adjustable footrest is easy to use and allows your child to climb in and out independently.

S TO K K E ® S T E P S ™ BOUNCER Cradling Motion The softly cushioned bouncer has a unique cradling movement that mimics the feeling of being cradled in mothers arms.

Detachable toy hanger The detachable toy hanger keeps your little one’s favorite toy close at hand.

Adjusts to baby’s weight Multiple seating positions to adjust to your baby’s weight.

Design by Susanne GrĂ¸nlund and Claus Hviid Knudsen

S TO K K E ® S L E E P I ™

Happy 20

anniversary to the crib that captured our hearts Is there anything more precious than the image of our little loved ones curled, sprawled and snuggled up in peaceful slumber? Their little hands coiled around their favorite blanket or daddy’s finger as we wait for them to drift off to the land of nod, often delaying our own retreat for a few extra, treasured moments. A crib is...

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...more than just a bed with walls. So, at Stokke®, when we decided to create our own, we knew we wanted to design something very special. Twenty years ago, the Stokke® Sleepi™ Concept was born and since then it has won over the hearts of families all over the world, making it one of the most popular cribs available.

We spoke to Susanne Grønlund... ...one of the original lead designers of the Stokke® Sleepi™ Crib, and asked her what makes this such an extraordinary and popular piece, even twenty years on. “Designing items for children presents a unique challenge in that their needs change so fast, meaning parents feel they have to buy a long list of products in a short time. Features like the adjustable height, swivel wheels and extension kits means that the bed grows with the child and help strengthens “togetherness” between baby and parents, similar to the Tripp Trapp® chair.

The oval shape is very much inspired by the shape of the mother’s belly and baby’s home before they arrived in the world. No sharp edges or clunky squares; it’s a very human friendly shape. At the time Stokke® Sleepi™ was launched all children’s beds were square and very much alike but we knew there was a way to create something more functional, comfortable and pleasing to the senses. When parents come across the Stokke® Sleepi™ for the rest time and run their hand across the soft form of that top rail they instantly fall in love. This crib is a unique and eye-catching addition to people’s home that really appeals to their imagination.”

Here’s why people keep falling in love with Stokke® Sleepi™ • Unique shape: Cocooning shape so baby feels extra snug and safe. • Growing with the child: The Stokke® Sleepi™ concept can be used from newborn to approximately 10 years, using extension kits. • Maneuverable: Lockable swivel wheels make it easy and safe to move around your home, so you can keep your baby close both night and day. •H eight Adjustable: 4 mattress height levels make it easier on your back and increases the safety for your child. • Comfortable: Pressure-resistant foam mattress for comfort and a hypoallergenic, breathable structure for safety. • Sustainable: Durable European Beech wood used for Stokke® Sleepi™ originates from self-generating forestry.

0 - 6 months

0 - 18 months

18 - 36 months

3 - 10 years

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

STOKKE ® SLEEPI ™ Gives your baby a sense of security by creating a cozy nest-like environment.

Sustainable The Beech used for Stokke® Sleepi™ originates from self-generating forestry. All textiles are either Oeko-Tex Standard 100 or Certified organic cotton.

Air flow A perforated wooden mattress bottom optimizes air flow, increasing comfort for your little one.

Maneuverability Lockable swivel wheels make it easy to move around your home, so you can keep your baby close both night and day.

Instagramable With lots of colours and accessories, you can create the nursery of your dreams.

Space-efficient The Stokke® Sleepi™ Mini crib is only 67 cm/26” wide, making it amazingly efficient in even the smallest of spaces.

Modular The Stokke® Sleepi™ concept can be used from newborn to approximately ten years, using extension kits and different accessories.

STORIES

Unexpectedly Expecting Sometimes the best things in life are a surprise. For some of us that includes the exciting journey of starting a family. We spoke to a couple who recently got one of the biggest surprises of their lives; and asked the soon-to-be mom, and soon-to-be dad what’s really been going through their minds since. For the last three years...

Alexis and James have enjoyed an active, adventurous life of traveling the word, riding motorcycles, kayaking and all the joys that a care-free life had to offer. That all changed this summer when Alexis found out she was expecting a baby boy. Here’s their story...

J: Summer was coming to a close, we had just come home from a wedding that evening, and we decided we would take a test the next morning. Alexis seemed really preoccupied but I really didn’t think she was pregnant and wanted her to take the test to put her mind at ease.

HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT?

WHAT WERE YOUR INITIAL REACTIONS?

A: How could I forget! It was the end of July, we were at a wedding and watching the kids dance on the dance floor. I realized I was late and should take a test. After arriving home I went out to buy one; it was positive. I just remember sitting on the floor laughing and crying at the same time with James.

A: Now?! I am in the middle of my graduate studies, and I didn’t know how I was going to manage my work and pregnancy (morning sickness, and then the eventual child that would arrive in 9 months.) I was scared. James was reassuring and we went for a walk together. I was so grateful for him and I knew that we could do it together, as a team. →

Alexis & James

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Alexis (28) is in her second year of graduate school at The Pennsylvania State University studying Art Education. She previously worked in brand management and product development for L’Oréal. James (40) has a small real estate investment company and previously worked for Google Maps on the Street View project. They currently live in Pennsylvania, surrounded by nature.

“I think my biggest fear was managing it all and being a good mom while trying to accomplish the goals I had set for myself.”

J: Shock. When Lex came out of the bathroom she looked like she had seen a ghost… We looked at the test, each other, and then at our dog. It was such a mix of everything, we hugged and cried and laughed and said “Wow” a few thousand times; we spent that first hour in a complete daze. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? HOW LONG DID YOU WAIT TO SHARE THE NEWS?

A: I told my older sister. She was silent for what seemed ages, but then as the idea sunk in, she was excited and positive about our news, after her initial shock wore off of course. J: My mom calls me about every 3 weeks, I swear her psychic abilities picked up on the big news first.

She called a few hours after we found out, I tried to act normal on the phone but failed and had to tell her. WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN AFTER YOU FOUND OUT?

A: I think my biggest fear was managing it all and being a good mom while trying to accomplish the goals I had set for myself. My mother has always been a supportive force in my life and instilled in me the importance of following your passions. I still had so much I wanted to do career-wise, as well as a long list of places I wanted to see, and experiences I wanted to have. I wondered how I could still do all of these things and be a dedicated, engaged mother. J: We traveled extensively throughout the world, and had

“It was such a mix of everything, we hugged and cried and laughed and said “Wow” a few thousand times; we spent that first hour in a complete daze.”

mind that soon EVERYTHING is going to change on February 23rd (due date). I definitely notice families more, I pay close attention to the Dads at the park, diaper bag in hand, and child in the other. I think I could rock a diaper bag. HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING A LOT OF PLANS?

A: One day at a time is my new motto! Now I am 5 months pregnant and so excited for our baby to join our family, but there is so much to do to prepare for him in the meantime. Having small goals and a relative outline of planning and preparing has helped so much. Stressing about all I have to do is not healthy for me or the baby. I go for walks with my dog every day and that is the time I collect my thoughts and meditate on my present and future with my blossoming family. J: When we first found out, Alexis went on a book buying binge. We were both overwhelmed and put the stack of books away, and just focused on one thing at a time. We take it day by day, and have an action plan of what we need to do and when.

some pretty great adventures. It was just the two of us and we had a lot of freedom. The prospect of giving that up initially made us feel a bit conflicted. We knew our lives were going to change very quickly. HOW HAVE YOUR LIVES CHANGED SINCE BECOMING PREGNANT?

A: The first trimester was EXHAUSTING. Before becoming pregnant, I didn’t do naps. I always woke up early with a cup of coffee and went from one thing to another at warp speed. Fatigue set in quickly and I was so tired that I found it difficult to do much at all. I was lucky that I got my energy back during the second trimester just when my fall studies resumed. J: After the initial shock wore off, it gradually sunk into my

WHO ARE YOU TURNING TO FOR SUPPORT AND ADVICE?

A: We’re fortunate to live close to both of our families. One of my cousins is also pregnant with her first baby and is 10 weeks ahead of me. Having her has a resource has been a game changer. We discuss pacifiers, diapers, hiccups, and all the little details of being pregnant together. It’s nice to have someone that you’ve known all of your life that you love who is going through this crazy, beautiful process too. It’s a journey, and I am glad she is on it with me. J: My family has been just a wealth of support and knowledge. My sister has two children, and talking to her and her husband has been such a gift. In addition to family, we’ve got a number of friends who are dynamic, interesting, creative people who also happen →

to have kids. They’ve helped to show me a great picture of what life looks like with children. HOW DO YOU IMAGINE BONDING WITH THE BABY?

A: I think that breastfeeding will be the natural first step. I know some women have trouble breastfeeding but I would like to try. I would like the baby and I to take our time and get to know each other. As a mother, I want our baby to feel free to be himself and try not to mold or shape him. Instead I want to provide an environment, like a garden, for him to discover his interests and grow into the person he will become with supportive parents. I am an avid painter, and am very interested in how drawing and mark making fuels development in young children. Painting and being outside will be introduced to our baby at a very young age.

“Our baby will be in the front seat of my kayak as soon as he’s old enough.”

J: I will be primarily working from home, so I will have a lot of time with our baby, especially when Alexis will be at classes and working on papers. Feeding and bathing the baby will be up to me! Our baby will be in the front seat of my kayak as soon as he’s old enough. Both Alexis and I love being outside and will try to foster that love in our child. The woods can be such a great place for exploring and learning about the world and the best way for our son to appreciate it, is being in it. LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FUTURE...

A: and J: Now as we are further along, the initial shock has given way to genuine hopefulness and excitement about this next adventure. We hope that our lives will continue to take some trails off the beaten path and we’ve got a stroller that can take us there. This baby was a surprise, but it’s been the best surprise we could have wished for and we cannot wait to meet him. �

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

S TO K K E ® T R A I L Z ™ Our amazing All-Terrain stroller, is built for action and takes you wherever you want to go effortlessly with ease and comfort.

Hinged Seat Rail Ingenious hinged seat rail offers easy access to your baby.

Canopy An extended canopy with UPF 50+ sun protection and built-in ventilation also functions as a window to keep an eye on your baby.

Durable leatherette handle The stylish handle provides a firm grip with a soft feel, offering the premium look of leather without the maintenance.

Ergonomic Seat The softly padded seat includes leg support and a depth adjustable baby pad to accommodate even the smallest babies.

Strong Construction Made to be sturdy enough to handle rugged terrain and still offer a smooth ride.

Sibling Solution Older siblings can ride along with the addition of the Stokke® Stroller Sibling Board.

Convenient Storage The large, waterproof shopping basket prevents content from getting wet and dirty

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

S TO K K E ® M YCA R R I E R ™ Fully Adjustable Carrier For A Perfect Fit. The Stokke® MyCarrier™ is a comfortable baby carrier that is suitable from four weeks of age.

Scandinavian Design The design was driven by the user’s habits and the developmental needs of the child.

Ergonomics Ergonomically developed to give a tailor-made fit to moms and dads of all sizes as well as your growing baby.

Back Carrier All adjustments are within reach of the parent. Placing your child in the baby carrier is safe, easy and comfortable in all positions.

Proper Head Support The soft, stable head support is comfortable and protective

Ideal weight distribution The design was inspired by hikers to ensure proper weight distribution in every position.

Hip-healthy Acknowledged as a hip-healthy baby carrier by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.

AC C E S S O R I E S

Stokke® Blanket Muslin Cotton

Stokke® Hooded Towel

Coral Bee & Slate Blue Sea

Pink Bee

Stokke® Sleepi™ Mini Bumper

Stokke® Sleepi™ Mini Fitted Sheet Pink Bee

Quiet

Stokke® Bedlinen

please, baby sleeping!

Stokke® Sleepi™ Mini with Canopy

Stokke® Pillow Cover

Stokke® Home™ Changer and desk White

Stokke® Blanket Cotton Knit

Stokke® Steps™

Pink, Mint & Beige

Stokke® Home™ Dresser White

Stokke® Sleeping Bag Linen White

STORIES

The voice of experience Cliona from Ireland is a full-time Mom living in Jar, a suburb of Oslo, with her husband Derek and their five young children. With two girls, Saoirse (8) and Fiadh (6), and three boys, Donnacha (4), Senan (2) and Séimi (11 months), there is never a dull moment in this busy home!

How to bathe a baby

Baby’s First Bath When you have your first baby, one thing is for sure: your life will never be the same. You now have this... ...tiny bundle of joy that will fill your life with new experiences. No matter how well prepared you are, you will often find yourself being a little surprised or unsure about just what to do and when. You have so much to learn at the beginning. It can be overwhelming, but it’s important to know you are not alone. In fact, all these new experiences help to build the bond between you and your baby, so while you might not be that experienced, the best person to take care of your baby is you. Feeding, sleeping and diaper changes are all part of your daily routine now, but one of the things parents can become most anxious about after bringing baby home is that first bath. At the end of the day, most parents tend to want the same thing: to make bath time more enjoyable and safe for their baby. As a mother of five children ranging from 11

months to 8 years, I’ve learned through experience. However, I still had help that first time. Before you leave the hospital, ask a nurse or care assistant to show you how to bathe your baby. Don’t assume they’ll do it automatically, as they are so busy, and they might not remember. They are there to help and will be glad to show you and give advice. Even if you are on your second or third baby, don’t be afraid to ask. It’s no harm to refresh your memory. When it comes to bath time, safety is always first. If you are ever in doubt about issues relating to the general health of your baby and bathing, please make sure to consult your physician. Bath time is a great opportunity to look for any rashes or irritation on their skin and, during those first months, if you need reassurance or advice, don’t hesitate to ask for it. →

â&#x20AC;&#x153;When it comes to bath time, safety is always first.â&#x20AC;?

Great fun playing with the Stokke® Flexi Bath® Toy Cups

after the bath to keep your baby nice and warm. If you are super organized (which most of us aren’t!), warming up the towel can be nice, especially in the colder months.

There are a lot of different opinions about bathing a baby around the world. Some are cultural and many are personal. But there are some things you can do to make it enjoyable for your family. Once you are ready to bathe your baby, being prepared is one of the most important things. Even now, bathing my fifth baby, I have to be super organized! Your baby’s bath should be warm, not hot. If you don’t have a bath thermometer, which most of us don’t, then use your elbow or wrist to check the temperature. Babies have sensitive skin, so this is important to get off to a happy start for your baby. You’ll want to have all your bath-time essentials at hand, as you can’t leave your baby unattended, even for a second: the tub, a baby sponge and mild baby wash. Sometimes adding a drop of baby oil to the water helps, especially if your baby has dry skin. I usually do that at the end, once they are washed. A towel with a hood is ideal

A diaper, of course, and ointment are good, if baby has a bit of a rash or irritation, which is quite common when baby is teething, for example. Having a warm room with no drafts will make it even more comfortable for your baby. If that’s not possible, washing their hair at the end will help prevent them from getting cold. Once you have everything ready, relax. This is a new experience, and your baby may respond well and relax, or they may cry. If they do, don’t worry. All babies are different, and you’ll get to know what your baby likes and doesn’t like about bath time. Sometimes, they will cry at first but often will soon relax and enjoy the experience. Personally, I think the warm water soothes them, and maintaining eye contact will make it even more special for your baby. Most babies don’t mind water being poured over their head. I wish I could say that doesn’t change, but when mine got older they didn’t like water in their eyes so much! How often you bathe your baby is really a personal thing. If they love it, and it helps their routine, then a couple of times a week is perfect. If your baby has particularly →

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

S TO K K E ® F L E X I BAT H ® Make a splash at bath time with Stokke® Flexi Bath®. Enjoy fun in the tub while saving space and water.

Heat sensitive drain plug Turns color, giving parents a visual cue when the water temperature is getting warmer. Lightweight Weighing only 1.3kg/2.2lbs, it’s super light and portable.

Longevity Suitable from birth to 4 years, so your little one can enjoy it for a long time.

Newborn Support Ingenious design that accommodates the natural shape of your baby’s body, from newborn to 8 months.

Intuitive Unfolds and folds with a simple clasp.

Space-saving Folds flat for compact storage and easy transport.

Fun colors Choose from a range of fun and interior-friendly colors.

Safe A non-slip base keeps the bathtub in place during bath-time fun.

Easy to use The bathtub has a plug for fast and easy draining.

Compatible with the Stokke™ Flexi Bath™ Stand The Stokke® Flexi Bath® fits perfectly onto the Stand. The Stand is designed for safety, ease of storage and convenience with everything close at hand.

dry skin, then they don’t need a bath that often. Regular bathing can just dry the skin, as it can remove the natural oils. Some parents like to bathe baby before bedtime, but again that’s a personal thing. In my experience, it helps them wind down and get ready for sleep, so I usually do it about an hour before bedtime. Sometimes you can be so busy, and you might have more free time in the morning, which is perfect. You as a parent will find what works best for you and your baby. The most important thing is to make it enjoyable for you both, and the best way to do that is to plan it for when you have plenty of time. Don’t rush this precious baby-bonding time.

Here are my top tips:

Make bathing easy with the S TO K K E ™ F L E X I BAT H ™ S TA N D

• BE PREPARED. Reassure your baby by maintaining eye contact, smiling and letting them hear your voice. Gather everything you need and have it within arm’s reach. You don’t want to interrupt a bath because you forgot something. • EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED. Baby might not like bathing at first. Don’t worry if it doesn’t go smoothly in the beginning. They will adjust in time. Always keep their head well supported. Bathing baby requires your full attention, so avoid distractions. • GET OTHERS INVOLVED. My older children love being Mommy’s little helpers! It’s a lovely memory to capture, so taking a photo or video is an excellent idea. It’s amazing how fast they grow! • MAKE IT COZY. Get everything ready beforehand and place baby into the warm water before they get cold. It can be a bit of a shock to them when the cold air hits their skin upon finishing. Wrap baby in a soft, hooded towel. Now is a perfect time for cuddles and kisses!

The Stokke™ Flexi Bath™ Stand is designed...

• KEEP IT INTERESTING. Introducing some bath toys will keep it fun and help develop hand-eye coordination too! Once baby gets a hold of something, it will go straight into their mouth. Be sure to squeeze the water from bath toys once bath time is over to keep them clean.

...to bring you and your baby closer for bath time bonding and fun. Made exclusively to fit the Stokke® Flexi Bath® Tub; it’s designed for safety, ease of storage and convenience with everything close at hand. It’s also one of the first stands to meet the new EU regulations for bath stands (EN 17072:2018).

You’ll become more confident with practice, and it will soon become a relaxing ritual for you and your baby. �

Avoid kneeling on the floor with this sturdy, ergonomic bath time helper. Made with functionality, comfort and bonding at the core.

F U N FAC T S A B O U T

S TO K K E ® H O M E ™ Wheter you’ve got lots of space or little to spare, the Stokke® Home™ concept will be a special place as all true homes are. All you have to do is move in.

Unique House shape The house shape allows for individualization.

Versatile Choose your preferred pieces from the product range to customize your nursery.

Longevity Classic Scandinavian design and durable materials makes it a classic piece that can be used for years.

Fits large or small nurseries Furnish petit or large nurseries depending on how you arrange the modules in your space.

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Sturdy Construction The wood components are made of high-quality European beech wood.

STORIES

The

Time to pack your bags for the hospital!

countdown

is on...

Advice from the pros

→

Here are some of the top suggestions collected from baby delivery graduates and veterans to help you be packed and prepared for (almost) anything:

The nursery is just about complete, your birth plan is prepaired and you’ve made sure everything is packed and ready for your baby’s arrival at the hospital: Car seat, baby clothes, that adorable little blanket your aunt knitted which will look so cute in those first photographs. But what about packing for the parents-to-be? Mom’s bag: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

A comfortable change of clothes Pyjamas and/or soft robe Big comfy socks, slippers or flip flops All the chargers! Extension plug or extra long wires Eye mask and ear plugs Nursing bra

Some other small but mighty essentials for your bag: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Hair ties or headband Gum or mints Snacks Water bottle Glasses / contact lenses Toothbrush, toothpaste and mini mouthwash Dry shampoo Cleansing/Wet wipes Deodorant Chapstick

Partner’s bag: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Cash Pillow and blanket Camera (with spare battery and SD card) Electronic devices and entertainment Emergency power bank and chargers Toiletries and a shaving kit if inclined! Comfy clothes Nicer clothes for the pictures Painkillers (and any other meds you need) Notepad and pen

Some other small but mighty essentials for your bag: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Water bottle Snacks Gum/mints Comfy shoes or slippers Ear plugs and sleep mask Gift for the staff Glasses / contact lenses

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€ 29,-

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