The Parent and Baby Magazine Spring/Summer 2018 Norfolk by The Parent and Baby Show

Spring/Summer | Norfolk Edition

for bump to toddlers around the age of 5 years FR O M TH E C R E ATO R S O F TH E PA R ENT & BA BY S H OW

Love your local pregnancy, baby and child businesses and experts Exercise in Pregnancy C-Section Tips and Advice What's a Forest School?

Highlighting Group B Strep Styling and Fashion

PLUSâ&#x20AC;¦Thrifty days Out in Norfolk for the family

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Lets talk pregnancy, baby and toddler!

Useful Organisations and Contacts for Families CHILDREN CHARITIES & ORGANISATIONS: EACH – A charity which supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening illness across East Anglia

Our brand new industry mini magazine is finally here… and we have big plans! The magazine is a sideline project to our shows and something we feel compliments the region really well! We hope to expand and grow this publication, so we can access more of Norfolk and other local counties. A big thank you to our magazine sponsors, of whom this would have been near enough impossible to have pulled off without…

Norfolk SEND Partnership – Information, Advice & Support Service. Supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their parents – 01603 704070 The Blayze’ing Star Charity – Group B Strep Charity and local to Norfolk

BREASTFEEDING AND FEEDING: Lactation Consultants of Great Britain – Find your local consultant in Norfolk. www.lcgb.org Living with Reflux – Support and Information for parents with a baby who has reflux. www.livingwithreflux.org There are also many feeding support groups in Norwich: http://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/departments/ maternity-department/feedingand-caring-for-your-baby/supportgroups/

PARENT SUPPORT: Gingerbread Norwich – A charity which provides advice and practical support for single parents. There’s also a Facebook chat group for single parents in the Norwich area Young Parents Group: Sprowston – Emma Nobbs on 01603 301408

We hope you enjoy reading our creation. Please tag us in pictures and get spreading the love for our local, talented businesses!

Lots of love Alex and the team x 

www.theparentandbabyshow.co.uk

Baby Bank Norwich Get Me Out The Four Walls – A Facebook group aimed at parents in the Norfolk area that have time at home with the kids. Also helps combat Postnatal Depression

LOSS: Time Norfolk – A charity which provides free confidential help and support to anyone who has experienced Pregnancy Loss through Miscarriage, Termination or Stillbirth Front page image supplied by Pennycress Photography, Wymondham

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

THE baby show of the region is coming to Norwich UEA Sportspark on the 14th April! The Parent and Baby Show is an innovative event taking on a festival theme with indoor tipis, chill out zones, vintage tearoom with rustic seating and so much more! If you have a little one under the age of 5, or you’re a parent-to-be then this is for you!

We have some fab show partners on board to help make the show what it is… a big thank you to:

The show has tonnes of free activities including a full programme of talks and workshops, relaxation zone with massages galore, soft play, baby sensory, photo studio, crafty activities, sling testing, maternity zone with style and colour consultations - the list is endless! And for only £5 entry with under 16s free, it’s a complete bargain.

We will be back on

SATURDAY 8TH SEPT at UEA SPORTSPARK.

Keep an eye on our website & social media for details

Find out all about what we have going on at our website: https://www.theparentandbabyshow.co.uk/product/tickets-140418-at-uea-sportspark/ where you can also buy your show tickets and pre-order your goody bag. *Please note you can buy entry on the day

Free Parking and suitable for bump to 5yrs

All about Fertility Acupuncture By Treat Norwich

Infertility is the inability of a couple to get pregnant despite having unprotected regular sex. A couple is regarded as infertile if, after regular sexual intercourse, they have not conceived in two years. It is estimated that one in seven UK couples has difficulty conceiving (HFEA, 2006). How Can Acupuncture Support Fertility? There are many research studies into acupuncture which show very promising results and suggest that acupuncture may help in various areas relating to fertility and conception: •

Irregular menstrual cycle

•

Reducing stress

•

Improvement of blood circulation to the reproductive organs, including the ovaries and uterus

•

Increasing endometrial thickness by maximising blood circulation to the uterus

•

Helping to trigger ovulation in women with ovulatory problems

•

Helping women with PCOS, endometriosis, period pain, pelvic inflammation

•

Improving sperm count, and motility

Acupuncture is a popular treatment choice for fertility support (Smith 2010), but how many treatments will I need and how much will it cost? At Treat’s Acupuncture clinic 75% of clients attend for fertility related support. Our Fertility Specialist Acupuncture Team see couples, men and women with unexplained infertility, IVF Support, Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), re-occurring miscarriages, low sperm count, emotional stress and other fertility related issues.

First Appointment 1.5 hrs £60 An initial assessment will be carried out on your first visit. A detailed fertility and health history will be taken, as well as a Traditional Chinese Medical diagnosis which includes, pulse and tongue observations, a close look at lifestyle, diet, exercise and emotional and psychological aspects. You will receive an acupuncture treatment at your first session. Follow Ups in our 1.25 hrs £24 Community Multibed Treat prides itself on our ethos of providing affordable Acupuncture treatment for fertility related issues. With this in mind the model of our Multibed Clinic was created in 2010 so you can access ongoing treatment at a reduced rate, saving £21 per session compared to a private follow up of £45. The mulitbed model is similar to how acupuncturists work in clinics all over China and a very effective way of reducing costs, yet maintaining physical privacy at all times. The amount of acupuncture treatments in total depends on individual needs, health, goals, and how you respond to acupuncture. This makes it difficult to predict a total amount that you will require. However, most people experience some positive results in just 1 or 2 treatments. Weekly treatment is recommended to start with, the majority of fertility clients start with a course of 6-10 treatments with a review session after this.

Article courtesy of Treat Norwich Tel: 01603 514 195 Find us on www.treatnorwich.co.uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

One For The Birthing Partners BY About Births and Babies We’re all different and your birth may be more or less challenging than the lady’s on the bus who took great delight in telling you all about hers! What is true the World over is that having caring and supportive people around you can make a difference to your birth experience. Visualize lying on a bed with strangers peering down at you under bright lights and you don’t have the faintest idea of what is going on. Sounds scary doesn’t it? Now visualize yourself in a quiet room with soft-focus lighting and gentle music playing. Your partner, relative or friend are by your side. Sounds more appealing to most I imagine! Birth can be affected by many intricacies, but we know that adrenalin and fear slow progress and birth may feel harder to cope with. Oxytocin and knowledge help move it along and a positive mindset can lead to a more favourable experience.

Encourage birth partners to be SMMMMART!

S What’s around you? Can you change the atmosphere by altering the surroundings? M Keep mum moving to allow gravity to work its magic and the spine free to increase the pelvic outlet. M Massage away all her aches and pains and encourage a positive mindset. M Mooing is ok, particularly if it stops her holding her breath! M Pop her favourite munchies in the birth tool kit and surprise her from time to time. A Encourage mum to focus on her out breath to avoid panic breathing and ensure enough air re-enters her lungs. The uterus needs oxygen to work effectively. R Keep her distracted and relaxed so she’s not anticipating the next tightening. T Display encouraging thoughts and images around the room and act as advocate by talking through your birth wish list with your midwife.

13 Birth Bag Essentials 1. Sports water bottle for spraying intimate areas during urination 2. Natural perineal spritz 3. Presents for siblings 4. Towelling hair wrap 5. Flip flops

6. Pillows 7. Gentle nail file for baby’s nails 8. Water bottle with clip attachment and 1 m long drinking straw

Articles courtesy of About Birth and Babies About Birth and Babies run private antenatal classes and are part of the Pregnancy & Parenthood team of specialists who work together to support and nurture you and your baby’s emotional, social and physical wellbeing throughout Pregnancy & early Parenthood. Email: info@aboutbirthandbabies.co.uk Phone: 07949 845 441 Find us on www.aboutbirthandbabies.co.uk

9. Favourite snacks 10. Mirror 11. Lip balm 12. Eye mask 13. Ear plugs

C-Section Tips

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Exercise in Pregnancy by Babyfit Many mums-to-be have no idea where to start, what is best and, most importantly, what is safe with exercise in pregnancy. Common sense tells us that high risk activities like skiing, horse riding, scuba diving or sky-diving, and more physical sports like netball, football and rugby, are best avoided. However, most exercise is ok, with mindfulness and modifications. The key is to start gently and not to work so hard that you can’t hold a conversation. Can you walk into a weights class and low impact aerobics/ dance class? Yes – as long as you follow the pregnancy precautions and adaptations! The most important thing is to get moving. Exercising during pregnancy will not only support your changing body but can also help: •

Control weight gain

•

Reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia

•

Improve posture, mood and sleep

•

Increase awareness and tone of pelvic floor muscles

•

Reduce the need for intervention during labour

Choosing a specialist pregnancy exercise class, like Yoga, Aqua or Pilates, will also address specific pregnancy issues, helping to: •

Stretch and strengthen your changing body

•

Reduce back and pelvic girdle pain

•

Calm and relax your body and mind, preparing you for birth and beyond

•

Get your baby into the best position for birth

•

Increase the chances of a short, easier labour

Information about BabyFit classes can be found at www.babyfit.me.uk. BabyFit is part of the Pregnancy & Parenthood team of specialists who work together to support and nurture you and your baby’s emotional, social and physical wellbeing throughout Pregnancy & early Parenthood.

from Norfolk Mummas It’s well documented, even for those who haven’t had a baby yet, that having a C-Section takes longer to recover from, as it is major surgery after all! So we’ve put together some top tips from local Norfolk Mummas who have all had a C-Section at the NNUH since January 2017! Blow dry your incision area every time you wash, that way you get it absolutely dry but don’t pull at any stitches. Leah, Stalham – January 2017 Buy extra maternity pads. So as strange as it sounds placing a maternity pad on your stitches has soooo many benefits. It keeps the wound dry and clean. It stops clothes and undies from rubbing. When you cough or sneeze (and I promise you you’ll try your very hardest to not do these things for a while) its something to push against for support. Mikaela, Derehem – June 2017 Proper peppermint tea (the oil stuff) is a must as when you have the surgery you can get a lot of really uncomfy trapped wind all around your body! Nadine, Sprowston – January 2017 Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for help/pain relief. Blakeney ward always seems to be really busy so make sure you’re heard! If you don’t ask you don’t get! Rachel, Cringleford – January 2018 Go out for regular gentle walks – I’m positive this helped get me back to driving much earlier than the 8 weeks I was originally told! Apparently it can also prevent blood clots and constipation (something you REALLY DON’T WANT to have) – which reminds me … get LOTS of prune juice in! Sophie, Wymondham – July 2017 Do online grocery shopping – and if you’re having a planned C-Section prepare lots of meals before you go into hospital and basically prepare your home for 6 weeks of lounging around with baby. Lauren, Costessey – March 2017 Turn your living room into a baby haven. Going up and down stairs is painful and can be for weeks. We used our pram as baby’s nap place as it was easier for me to pick him up and lay him down there. Our dining room table became an epic changing area. There was a changing mat, baskets of nappies, wipes and clothes. Even the baby bath was there! Emma, Horsford – February 2017

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Do you know about Group B Strep? Written by Group B Strep Support Charity During the current pregnancy: •

Mum has had any positive urine or swab test for GBS

•

Labour is preterm (before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy)

•

Mum’s waters broke more than 24 hours before her baby was born

•

Mum has a high temperature or other signs of infection during labour

During previous pregnancies:

Group B Streptococcus (group B Strep, Strep B or GBS) is the most common cause of severe infection in newborn babies in the UK, causing sepsis, pneumonia and meningitis. GBS is also the most common cause of meningitis in babies under age 3 months. GBS is a common bacterium, carried in the vagina and rectum of 20-40% of women in the UK. It’s not a sexually transmitted disease and most women carrying GBS will have no symptoms. Carrying GBS is not harmful to you, but it can occasionally cause serious infection in newborn babies and, very rarely, during pregnancy and before labour.

•

GBS was detected in Mum’s vagina, rectum or urine during her previous pregnancy

•

Mum has previously had a baby who developed GBS infection

Group B Strep Support is a UK charity working to stop GBS infection in babies. We educate new and expectant parents, doctors, and midwives about GBS and provide information and support to affected families. We have worked with the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists to develop a joint information leaflet on GBS – it’s free to download from www.gbss.org.uk/JointLeaflet

GBS is sometimes found during pregnancy when you have vaginal or rectal swabs or a urine test. The NHS offers some but not all pregnant women testing for GBS. For more information about available tests, visit the Group B Strep Support (GBSS) website: www.gbss.org.uk/TestingforGBS. Most GBS infection in newborn babies can be prevented by giving antibiotics in labour to women whose babies are at raised risk of developing the infection. The ‘risk factors’ for a newborn baby developing GBS infection are:

Article by Group B Strep Support Charity There is a local Group B Strep charity called The Blayze’ing star charity – based in Halesworth, Suffolk www.theblayzeingstar.org

How to get the best image of your newborn by Shellie Wall Photography

The aim for all newborn photography sessions is to get lots of wonderful images of your new bundle of joy. A good photographer will be encouraging and support you every step of the way! The smoothest newborn sessions with the best images are ones where baby is calm, sleepy and settled. I would highly recommend asking for your shoot to be in the morning and encourage parents to try and keep their precious bundles stimulated and awake following their first feed of the day. Great tips would be to bath them, talk to and play with them and let them kick about in just a nappy. By doing this you are wearing them out. You should then aim to feed them their second feed of the day upon arrival at the studio, which means they will then be tired, full and content, so your photographer can work their magic! The key for all photographers is to be able to read your baby and make sure they are comfortable and safe. After all a happy baby = successful session and stunning images! Please do ask your photographer if they have suitable training in handling newborns as this

should NEVER be done by someone who isn’t trained and professional. Of course there are other factors involved in capturing the perfect images too, beautiful props, outfits and backdrops. If you know what you’re wanting to achieve, then make sure you bring any cuddly toys, props with you and chat to your photographer when booking your session in to see what they have at their studio too – as most photographers will have plenty of gorgeous props and ideas! For those wanting to capture images of your babies yourselves, the advice is to keep it simple; posing should be left strictly to the professionals and never undertaken without training. You can still achieve some wonderful images by swaddling your baby and making sure they are full up, warm, cosy and contented. Just make sure you have lots of natural light! The first few precious weeks are often gone in a flash so what better way to remember them with an amazing gallery of beautiful, professional images from your selected photographer.

Article by Shellie Wall Photography Shellie Wall photography offers full newborn sessions with props and posing, for babies up to 16 days old; or simpler more natural snuggled up sessions which are also suitable for a smaller budget and for babies up to 8 weeks. Find us on

shelliewallphotography.co.uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Meningitis and Septicaemia - Know The Signs! Meningitis and Septicaemia are an understandable worry for parents. Although anyone can get them babies and young children are at increased risk - even if they have been immunised as these don’t protect children against all types of meningitis. Spotting Meningitis or Septicaemia in the early stages can be particularly tricky because some of the common early symptoms are similar to those of many childhood illnesses - such as headaches, fever, vomiting and a child that looks generally off colour. This is why trusting your instincts is so important. You know your child better than anyone and you will spot some of the more subtle changes. In all my time working as a paediatric nurse in A&E I have never known a child to be diagnosed with Meningitis or Septicaemia where the parents haven’t said that they knew something serious was wrong. Both Meningitis and Septicaemia can hit fast and children can become very unwell rapidly. So if you suspect your child has Meningitis you need to act fast and get help. The table shows a list of the signs to look out for. But remember you don’t necessarily get all the symptoms and they don’t come in a particular order. Those with the red ticks are more specific to Meningitis and Septicaemia. Other signs in babies can be: •

Tense or bulging soft spot on their head

•

Refusing to feed

•

Irritable with a high pitched or moaning cry

•

A stiff body with jerky movements, or else floppy and lifeless

•

Fever is often absent in young babies

People are usually aware of one of the most worrying signs of Meningitis and Septicaemia - the rash. But it is really important to know that the rash is not present in all cases and that it is a late sign. So don’t be reassured by the lack of a rash! If some of the other symptoms are present and your instinct is that a child is seriously unwell seek help immediately and don’t wait for the rash!

Article by Mini First aid Alternatively, book yourself onto a Mini First Aid Two Hour Baby & Child First Aid Class for just £20 - every class covers Meningitis and Septicaemia as well as CPR, Choking, Burns, Bleeding, Febrile Convulsions, Head Injuries & Fractures. Find a class near you or book a private class at home. Email joe@minifirstaid.co.uk Find us on www.norfolk.minifirstaid.co.uk

Feeding support

you're not alone!

by One To Cherish I hear congratulations are in order as you have found out you are pregnant and know when your little one will be arriving. Everything baby could be a whole new World for you including ‘how will I feed my baby’? There is a lot of information out there and you will inevitably be given so much advice by friends, family and even well-meaning people you meet whilst queuing to get your sandwich at lunchtime. It can leave you overwhelmed and possibly confused, not really knowing who to ask or what you need to know to make an informed decision. Let me reassure you that all the thoughts and feelings you are having are to be expected and are very common with new mums and mums-tobe. You are not alone! When it comes to feeding your baby, it is your decision, and although people will offer you their comments/opinions about what they think, stand strong and go with your gut feeling. As the mummy of your new baby you are doing your best, be it breastfeeding, bottle feeding or combi feeding. Your lifestyle is a huge influence on your feeding choice and any baby would much prefer a happy mummy rather than a stressed mummy.

Article by One to Cherish One To Cherish, run by Liz, have a number of courses available including a baby preparation class ‘Onesie Baby Prep’, IAIM (International Association of Infant Massage) Baby Massage course and the Baby Fed Programme exploring everything in baby feeding including breast and formula feedings. The business is local to Norfolk. www.onetocherish.co.uk

Whether you choose breastfeeding or formula feeding, knowing as much as possible will help you make an informed decision. There may be times when your best intentions cannot happen and this can make you feel frustrated or sad. However, once again, this is all too common! Your baby needs their mum to respond to them, love them and want to be with them, and how you feed your baby should not cause you to worry. In those early days when you are sleep deprived and your hormones are all over the place, you need someone to support you such as a partner, your parent or friend. There are also amazing breastfeeding counsellors and supporters out there along with a number of parent groups on social media again offering support, even at 3am when it can feel too much. Trust your instinct and decision, enjoy being a mummy, stay strong, you are doing the very best for your baby. Your baby will grow and thrive knowing their mummy has done her best for them. Wishing you an amazing journey for you and your baby and remember you are not on your own.

LOCAL FEEDING SUPPORT GROUPS: Lactation Consultants of Great Britain – find your local consulant lcgb.org Livingwithreflux.org breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk There are also a lot of breastfeeding support cafes listed at http://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/departments/maternitydepartment/feeding-and-caring-for-your-baby/ support-groups

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Q and A's with The Powder Room Physio Jenna Sweeney is a woman’s health physiotherapist specialising in all things women’s health for pre and postnatal ladies. We need Jenna in our lives to make sure our body is prepared for birth and to be confident in the healing process. How can pregnancy and birth affect the pelvic floor muscles? Firstly, the pelvic floor is a hammock of muscle from the coccyx at the back, to the pubic bone of the pelvis at the front, which provides support to our pelvic organs and helps us to control continence. In pregnancy the average weight gain is 12kg, from this increased loading the pelvic floor muscles can get very fatigued. During vaginal delivery they get stretched and can sustain trauma. This can result in urgency and frequency to need to wee, leaking of the bladder in many circumstances and pelvic organ prolapse

associated with the feeling of vaginal heaviness or something coming down within the vagina. A pelvic floor exercise programme and lifestyle changes can significantly improve these symptoms! What is a diastasis rectus abdominis? It is a thining and stretching of the linea alba which joins our rectus abdominis muscles or six pack muscles together in the centre of our tummies. This stretching has to occur to accommodate your baby in pregnancy and in most cases it recovers naturally postnatally, however sometimes it can cause the tummy to remain to have a ‘pouch’ or lax skin. When sitting up you may notice a doming or ‘the tobelerone effect’ caused by the reduced support in the centre of the abdomen. www.thepowderroomphysio.weebly.com www.pregnancyandparenthood.co.uk Find us on

Norfolk’s new born photography specialist Beautiful, timeless images of you and your baby

One of the UK’s leading new born portrait photographers, with over 8 years newborn experience.

Dedicated baby photography studio in Wymondham.

B oo k n ow at : w w w. p e n nyc re s s p ho to g rap hy. co. uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

OTC Baby

services for babies and their families

The Onesie Baby Prep Programme Sign up for a hands-on 3 hour course to learn all you need about preparing for baby!

Life size baby dolls and practical exercises that will make you experts in: • • • • •

changing nappies - how you actually do it! how to bath your baby, how to dress and undress, how to hold and soothe your baby. What are the key early development stages - what to look for. • Relationship building - how this works, what to do to make it successful. All courses held at John Lewis, Norwich. Including a free ‘try-before-you-buy’ session, with a JL Partner.

Interested in Baby Massage? Book an OTC Baby Massage (IAIM) course

Only

£47

+ free guest

+ Free

Goody Bag

OTC Baby also offer Breastfeeding support and the Baby Fed programme

For more information: Liz Thurston 07765 411 805 liz@onetocherish.co.uk www.onetocherish.co.uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spring/Summer

Blossom Bumps Yoga

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Why your Health and Wellbeing matters during Pregnancy and Parenthood Pregnancy is a time when couples should reflect on their health and wellbeing. Not only to nurture their growing baby but to thrive as individuals during pregnancy and early parenthood. For many, pregnancy is a happy and positive experience but for some, it is accompanied by health problems and distress. Morning sickness, gestational diabetes, pelvic girdle pain and Pre-eclampsia are some of the more commonly talked about physical conditions. However, less

commonly discussed are perinatal (pregnancy and 1 year after birth) mental health conditions, which are reported to adversely affect 20% of women (The Centre for Mental Health 2015). Investing in health and wellbeing at this time couldn’t be more important. It gives you the best chance of being physically and emotionally ready for your journey into parenthood and to flourish in your new role as loving, responsive parents.

Rowan House Health and Wellbeing Centre (Hethersett), is the hub for Pregnancy and Parenthood’s Team of specialists who work together to support and nurture you and your baby’s emotional, social and physical wellbeing throughout pregnancy and early parenthood. Find us on

www.pregnancyandparenthood.co.uk

The importance of reading to children by Bookbears In a recent poll about childhood, when asked about the most memorable part of their daily routine as a child, a huge proportion of the population replied with ‘having a bedtime story’. Let us think about this special time of day for a moment or two…closeness between child and caregiver, being transported to somewhere else – perhaps a magical castle or an under the sea grotto, being immersed in both spoken and written language and devoted time and attention. Is it any wonder that memories of this time of day are treasured? Regular, shared story times with youngsters provide a wealth of benefits for their developing brains.

Reading aloud to children helps to: •

Support spoken language and comprehension

•

Refine fine motor skills (turning pages, pointing to detail in pictures)

•

Address significant life events (starting school, moving house)

•

Provide a stimulus for imaginative play

•

Encourage an early love of literature which, in turn, can make learning to read in the formal sense a smoother transition

At Bookbears our weekly sessions are designed to develop young children’s love of stories and literature through carefully planned play activities. We understand that reading really is the pathway to everything. Email bookbears@hotmail.com Call: 07506 710 276 Find us on

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Empower Your Mind, Align Your Body, Nurture Your Baby Our team of specialists work together to support and nurture you and your baby's emotional, social and physical wellbeing throughout Pregnancy & early Parenthood

Antenatal Classes including caring for a newborn Birth Preparation Pregnancy Yoga & Pilates Postnatal Recovery & Wellbeing Postnatal Pilates & Mummy MOT Assessment Breastfeeding Support Baby Massage & Baby Yoga www.pregnancyandparenthood.co.uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spring/Summer

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Top Norfolk Parent Bloggers We’ve been on the hunt for Norfolk’s top parent bloggers and this is what we’ve come up with… go find them, follow them and engage with them.

Wife of A Wig Wearer Come over to my blog for parenting spoofs, parenting truths and unfiltered pictures of family life. Parenting is tough so we have to laugh together. www.wifeofawigwearer.com

Beauty Baby and Me My blog is an honest account of motherhood; I write about my experiences of motherhood and dealing with a newborn and toddler. After all, we’re all in it together. beautybabyandme.com

Documenting the Drews We are a pregnancy, parenting, baby and lifestyle blog. First time parents, blogging our way through parenthood ups, downs and everything in between.

A Norfolk Mummy I write about bringing up two boys under the age of three. I also share great family days out, parenting tips and healthy recipes. www.anorfolkmummy.co.uk

Pondering Parenthood Pondering Parenthood helps parents of pre-school children to discover great products, books and activity ideas, while being honest about the realities of parenting. ponderingparenthood.com

www.documentingthedrews.co.uk

Mama Cates

THE HONEST CONFESSIONS OF A NICU MUM Vicki Cockerill (aka NICU Mum) talks all things NICU, HEART, parent and toddler with honesty, humour and hormones. confessionsofanicumum.blogspot.co.uk

An American expat #bossmama with a passion for all things creative. She writes a lifestyle blog that focuses on beauty and fashion for modern mothers. mamacatesblog.wordpress.com

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

When I fell pregnant in 2014, I spent nine months imagining how my life would look as a mother. It was long country walks, homemade crafts and time as a family. I look back now after the birth, and I can see it was a time where I was at my darkest. Pushing against the denial, anger and resentment after my son was admitted to Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit at birth.

Motherhood isn't always picture perfect

by Honest Confessions of a NICU mum! He went to have successful heart surgery at six months old which left me broken. I was a high-risk pregnancy second time around. As we neared the end of the pregnancy my mental health suffered, and I became depressed and anxious. I was constantly fearing the worst and that history would repeat itself. I put so much pressure on myself that it would be different, everything would go to plan. I set myself to fail before I had even given birth. I was determined to do it all, after all isn’t that what the media and society dictates?

We are made to feel bad talking about maternal mental illness, as though you should be ashamed. You are at your strongest when you get up and ask for help. Post Natal Depression isn’t pretty, and it feels as though you are swimming against the tide most of the time. Sometimes you will laugh, sometimes you will cry, sometimes you will want to scream as loud as you can and feel as though you want the World to swallow you whole. I have never felt as much as a failure as I did when I gave birth to my second child. PND is natural and happens to so many people. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad mum, that you have failed. It means you are normal and you are not alone. One day it will pass, not right now but one day, you will be okay again.

I should breastfeed, juggle two kids, work, and lose all my baby weight in the blink of an eye, right? Once again, I had to take the difficult journey to the doctors to be diagnosed with Post Natal Depression. I felt as though I had failed as a mother. Again. I was crying for hours on end and trying to leave my family. I hated myself for being the mum with PND, the one that was struggling.

Find me on http:/confessionsofanicumum.blogspot.co.uk/ Do you suffer with PND or know someone who may? There are some great charities and support groups which may help: Get Me Out The Four Walls Norfolk – FB Group and regular meet ups Mind.org.uk PANDASfoundations.org.uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Vanilla Sugar Cookies by The Eaton Cake Company 200g softened unsalted butter 200g caster sugar 1 tbsp good quality vanilla extract A pinch of salt 1 medium egg, lightly beaten 400g sifted plain flour, plus extra for dusting

Line two baking trays with greaseproof paper. Cream together the butter, sugar, vanilla and salt, but don’t overwork. Slowly add the egg until well combined. Sift in the flour and mix until just combined. Don’t overwork as your cookies will spread when cooking. Wrap the dough in clingfilm and chill for at least 30 minutes. When ready to use, roll out the dough to 4-5mm thick and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place on the trays and chill again for about 30 minutes. Bake in a pre-heated oven at 175°C/Gas mark 3, for 6-10 minutes until the ends are just golden brown. Leave to cool on a wire rack, before decorating. You can decorate with royal icing, or use the same cookie cutters to cut out fondant icing and stick on to the cooled cookies with a little bit of water. To create a cookie-pop, insert a lollypop stick into the middle of your cookie before baking.

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Little Hotdog Watson The Cub Toucan Play Sun Hat £24.99

Konges Sløjd Balloon Music Mobile, Marshmallow £35

Wee Gallery, Canvas Growth Chart, Safari £29.95

Perfect Toy Storage Olli Ella Belly Basket £29

Olivier Baby & Kids Lucia Romper, Theo Pale Pink £39

STEP INTO SPRING IN STYLE

Meet the Olli Ella Storie Stool. A little seat of wonder! £45

Take inspiration from the wonderful Norfolk based Children's Lifestyle Store Marshes & Flint... Found by marshesandflint.co.uk

Plan Toys Wooden Triangle Clutching Toy £25.00

Tobias & The Bear, Wild Tee £18

Buddy + Bear Hoppy Bunny Plate, Bowl & Tumbler from £6

Olli Ella Yellow Luggy Basket £45

Plan Toys Rocking Pegasus £120.00

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Aden & Anais Fluro Pink Muslin Swaddle Duo £29.95

Plan Toys Ballet Top £10.99

Olivier Baby & Kids Liberty bow hairband, Capel Grey £18

The Olli Ella Wooden Holdie House £55 Olivier Baby & Kids Blue Stripe Shirt & Linen Jude Shorts, Charcoal Both £36

Plan Toys Sailing Boat, Walrus £14.99

A bike basket, a scooter basket or a treasure bag! The Mini Chari in Pink £35

SUMMER, SAND & SUNSHINE Let your little one show their personality in bold stripes, bright pinks and blues this summer... Found by marshesandflint.co.uk

Olivier Kids Amberlily Dress, Pink £46

Plan Toys Wooden Ice Cream Set £35.99 Organic Zoo Breton Stripe Suit £30

Amy & Ivor Blue Flower Travellers £45

Little Hotdog Watson The Adventurer - Hip Pink Sunhat £24.99

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Q and A's with Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense How does the age work with both groups? Baby Sensory runs from birth to 13 months with Toddler Sense then taking over at 13 months to 5 years – so we cover a large age group between us. What are the benefits of Baby Sensory? At Baby Sensory our thoroughly researched programme of activities uses a whole range of techniques and props to provide sensory stimulation designed to enhance and support your baby’s development I’ve got an older toddler – is it just physical and socialization skills which are aided by this course? Toddler Sense has a great range of benefits! Activities are designed to keep toddlers busy, active and stimulated by offering them a magical, multi-adventure experience in a safe and happy environment.

Most babies learn best when they see, hear, feel, touch, taste and smell.

This promotes sleep, a positive attitude to exercise, develops imagination and creativity, and aids social and emotional learning. Not bad eh! Is there time to meet other parents at your classes? At Baby Sensory each class follows your baby’s natural play - rest - play - cycle, not only does this offer your baby the chance to make the most of our classes but provides a valuable opportunity for adults to socialise too whilst babies relax in our exploratory play area, after all we recourse the importance of taking care of the grown ups too! At Toddler Sense little ones generally pave the way for meeting new mums! www.babysensory.com www.toddlersense.com Find us on

“Would you like an adventure now, or shall we have our tea first?” Peter Pan, J. M. Barrie

Sneak a peek, it’s all amazing!

Woohoo! It’s time for Toddler Sense

Our multi-award winning classes will introduce you and your baby (or babies) to a world of sensory delights, where you can relax, spend quality time with each other and enjoy meeting other new parents.

A place where structured play goes hand in hand with imagination, the freedom to explore, and adventure! Each week has a unique theme, creating a whole new world of magical delights. To find out more:

To find out more:

Enter your postcode at www.babysensory.com Email Suzy: norwich@babysensory.co.uk Check

We’ve done the research; so you can enjoy the fun...

on: 07843209333 Email: norwich@toddlersense.co.uk

Baby Sensory Norwich

Classes at: NR4, NR6, NR7, NR18

Call Becky Edwards

www.babysensory.com

Toddler Sense Norwich Classes at: NR4, NR5, NR7, NR18

Check

We’ve done the research; so you can enjoy the fun...

www.toddlersense.com

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Reclaiming your sense of you by Sam James Coaching Becoming a parent can be all consuming and in a blink of an eye you can forget what it truly means to be you, and not only “[insert your child’s name] parent”.

for the rest of your life. However, it can become really easy for you to get lost beneath all the hats that you wear and the responsibilities that you are juggling.

How would you introduce yourself, without referring to your work or your family? It’s hard isn’t it?!

Grab yourself a cuppa, a notebook and pen, and start reclaiming your sense of you; or make a date with a friend to share ideas. Here are some questions to help you start thinking about who YOU are and what YOU are all about:

When you go through any significant changes in your life (becoming a parent, starting a new job, moving, relationship changes, children starting nursery / school / college / university, retirement) your sense of who you are and what your role is can come into question. Identity is defined as “The characteristics determining who or what a person or thing is”. Your sense of who you are and what you are all about, continues to change throughout your life. It isn’t something that once found, stays the same

•

5 things you love to do

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5 things you are good at

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What/who inspires you?

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If you could spend a day in a great library and read about anything, what would it be?

Find us on www.samjamescoaching.co.uk

James Sam

C oaching

Life coaching with me can:

Build Self-Confidence & Self-Esteem | Improve Goal Setting & Achievement Reduce Stress Levels | Find The Balance Between Work & Home Life Improve Relationships | Improve Health & Wellbeing

Helping You

Helping Mums

Helping Your Business

07736 325189 | hello@samjamescoaching.co.uk | samjamescoaching.co.uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Mama Mini Break

FACIAL: UandYourSkin uandyourskin.co.uk UandYourSkin fixed me up with a relaxing signature facial by the one and only skin expert, Louise Thomas-Minns (who’s another fellow #BOSSMAMA).

Mama Cates has been on the hunt for top places in Norwich to spend a few hours without your little ones.

Ninety minutes of pure heaven and relaxation that included their unique ‘3D’ skin health assessment, deep cleansing, mask therapy and up to 3 types of massage therapy, including their unique ‘wake up’ massage.

by Mama Cates Blogger

Here’s how to can enjoy some MAMA time! If you’re stuck in a mummy-rut, your lower back is aching from all that baby wearing, maybe your skin is lacking radiance…and your roots are three inches thick. Then you need some mama time! I went on a mission to find the best places that Norwich has to offer to help you bounce back. (and Me!)

HAIR: Hairsmiths hairsmiths.co.uk Hairsmiths is an innovative, award-winning hair salon in the heart of the historic Norwich Lanes shopping district. Founded in 2011 by visionary Deb Dominic (and fellow #BOSSMAMA), Hairsmiths is a space where expertly trained stylists and technicians create tailor made hair services to cater for client’s individual needs.

I went from dull and dry to radiant and awake. Louise has also designed her own unique brand of skin care products that will be launched later in 2018. WOW! MASSAGE: Best Beauty Norwich bestbeautynorwich.co.uk From pregnancy to postpartum my back is a mess! But it’s fine as I didn’t have to look any further than Best Beauty Norwich, which is located in the historic Maids Mead Hotel (England’s oldest hotel) to help rectify this current situation! Best Beauty Norwich specialise in aromatherapy massages and I realised as soon as I walked in that I was in for a treat with owner Sophie Best, who also in my opinion has magic hands. I left feeling renewed, rejuvenated and energised. Sophie uses a mix of aromatherapy and sports massage. Massage is brilliant for mums, and at Best Beauty they adapt the massage to suit individual needs. A perfect way to pamper and revive yourself on any free afternoon you can have. Now it’s back to reality…the very cute but messy reality.

Stylist Megan Brand created my look by doing a full head of highlights and using a violet toner to create a lush icy but creamy finish to my colour. She styled my hair in beachy waves and used Label.m texturizing volume spray to finish off the look. I was in need of a major redo and lightening of my over grown roots and stylist Megan absolutely surpassed my expectations. A relaxed setting and the first time I closed my eyes in bliss for a while during the shampoo…

Find me on mamacatesblog.wordpress.com

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

24 Hours With A Newborn

with blogger Beauty, Baby and Me When I was first asked to write this piece my first thought was, where to start. As in what time of day. Because let me be the first to tell you, newborns not only have no concept of day and night but quite frankly they don’t care! When they want the milk, they will let you know whether that’s at 11am or 3am!

other half to make you tea and bring you cake, and recoup. And in this time of relaxing you can get to know your newborn. The cuddles, the closeness, the staring at her as she sleeps; it’s all so important and if you are breastfeeding, it is a great way to release Oxytocin, the love hormone, which helps with feeding and bonding.

But I suppose for the sake of routine (pah – they are NOT interested in that yet, despite what Gina reckons) let’s look at the morning. My little Holly was born a mere two weeks ago and has been ruling the roost ever since. We had been in a delightful cycle of 3 hours of sleeping, then it was nappy change, feed, wind and back to sleep. But even in just 14 short days Madam has changed the goalposts without a moment’s notice. After the night shift I get to 7am gasping for a cuppa and inevitably Holly will have the decency to snooze whilst I indulge. Us mamas need a cuppa and even a demanding newborn has unspoken respect for that! But don’t get ahead of yourself and start thinking you can make a ninja dash for a shower…. That’s pushing your luck and the second you make it up to the bathroom you’ll either hear that cry that says “I’ve not eaten in all of 40 minutes get back here now” or your other half will be shouting the words that you grow to dread when all you want is to wash your milk smelling body “I think she’s hungry”. And so your day begins. But let me emphasise this is the newborn phase. I am very much an “on demand” Mum – I feed Holly when she wants and I don’t believe you can spoil them with cuddles as some “experts” (I beg to differ) claim. But an essential part of this time is indulging in being lazy and demanding with your newborn. This is your time to rest! You’ve just had a baby – be it in the natural way, or like me, through the sun roof. This is your time to take it easy, get your

Of course you’re going to be knackered. Of course they are going to sleep beautifully in the day then party all night. You will have moments of tears, where you feel you’re the only person in the world who is awake and you can almost feel quite lonely in this sense. But you’re not alone. You’ve got all us other mamas here also awake, tired and dependant on the sugar from a bag of mini eggs at 3am to see us through. And you’ve got your baby. Who is demanding and needy but yours. All yours. You made him or her, you grew them, nurtured them and for that you are rewarded with the sweetest baby cuddles and funny faces. It’s not always easy to see the good at 4am when you’re falling asleep and desperate for baby to settle, but I promise, this newborn phase goes SO quickly. Enjoy the squidgy cuddles, the tea and trust me, you’ve got this. Find me on http://beautybabyandme.com/

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Complementary Health Clinic

• Natural Pregnancy Inductions • Moving for an Easier Birth Class • Hypnobirthing Courses with Molly the Midwife

• Post Pregnancy Core Restore class with babies

• Pregnancy Acupuncture, Massage and Reflexology

• Pregnancy Yoga and Pilates www.treatnorwich.co.uk Capitol House, 4-6 Heigham st Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 4TE, UK

• Children’s Reflexology Training for Mum's with Babies and Children

• Mumma MOT -

Postnatal physiotherapy assessment of the abdominal and pelvic area.

• Acupressure training for Labour for couples

• Nutritional Advice for Breast Feeding and baby weening

01603 514195

Give us a call to find out more or to book your appointment.

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

All About Baby Massage with Blossom Baby Norwich

How many classes do you put on as part of a course? Each course comprises of 5 classes. Each week we focus on different areas of the baby to massage. So by week 5 you will learn a full body massage: Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5

we focus on the legs and feet stomach and the colic routine chest and arms face and back gentle movements

Can you tell me how my baby will benefit from baby massage? I struggle to get going in the morning but if I know how it’s helping my baby it’ll make getting out of the house much easier! Becoming a mother was my inspiration for baby massage. Baby massage helps with many aspects such as bonding, tummy troubles, colic, constipation, sleep and general health problems. Some of the benefits of baby massage are listed below: BABY: Helps your baby to feel more loved, valued and respected; Reduced emotional distress and crying; Longer sleep and increased levels of relaxation; Helps baby to feel securely attached; Development of body awareness and relaxation; Relief from wind, colic, constipation and discomfort; Help with teething pain; Great for premature babies MASSAGER: Closeness; Learning a lifelong parenting skill; Deeper understanding of baby’s behaviour, body language and crying; Enjoyable one to one time; Feeling the relaxing effects of massaging your baby (oxytocin); Increased confidence in parenting ability and caring for baby; Make new friends and skills to help with problems you may come across. Plus it is lovely to come to the beautiful Georgian Townhouse in the relaxing and tranquil scout hut and meet other mums. A perfect start to the day!

Sleep – my baby doesn’t do this, will massage help and why? Baby massage improves sleep! That’s right! Parent – infant massage really does help babies sleep well! Studies show that infants who are massaged by their parents before bed tend to fall asleep faster, sleep more deeply, and stay asleep longer. Wheyhey! Could I not just read some books and learn at home how to massage? Our baby massage course offers much more than just the practical strokes of how to massage your baby. Each weekly session covers the massage strokes and gentle stretches, as well as time for discussing relevant parenting topics. This discussion time is for mothers and fathers to share ideas and experiences (if they choose to) and ask questions to the group and teacher. The usual things that parents want to talk about are: sleeping, feeding, feelings and emotions, demands of becoming a parent, crying and not being able to put their baby down. We teach the traditional and authentic baby massage routine over 5 weekly courses. I really want to meet other mums - are the babies usually all around the same age in each class? Baby massage classes are suitable for babies from birth to one year. So all babies are of a similar age.

Baby massage and baby yoga classes take place at the Georgian Townhouse on Unthank Road. Please visit www.blossombabynorwich.co.uk or email kelly@blossombabynorwich.co.uk to see the next available course. Find us on

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

! s p i t e m i t Bath

Fact Sheet

Encouragi ng you r bab y to love water is a com pletely nat ura l and enjo yable exp erie nce for both of you .

Remember, they’ve spent nine mon ths suspended in fluid so they actually feel quite at home in the wate r. So turn your bath into a mini swimming pool and start exploring the water together!

If you’re putting your baby in the bath on their own, keep the water quite shallow (20-30cm) and at a comfortable temperature (between 36-38 degrees). Even if you use a bath thermometer it’s a good idea to check the temperature by testing it with your elbow – it should feel neither hot nor cold, but comfortably warm. It’s a good idea to have a non-slip mat in front of the bath and a couple of warm towels close to hand too.

You can get your baby used to having water on their face by very gently trickling a palm-full of water onto the crown of their head and wiping it down their face. Let them explore the water’s natural buoyancy – gently swish them from side to side, backwards and forwards. Singing to them as you do this is fab – songs like ‘Twinkle Twinkle’ or ‘Row, Row, Row the Boat’ work really well.

Even better is for you to share the bath with your baby – it’s great for bonding and something either mum or dad can do. Lie back with them on your chest, making sure their body is fully submerged. Massaging their arms and legs away from their heart helps to relax them.

If your bath is deep enough, encourage your baby to float on their backs, with you supporting just their head (the water will need to be quite deep in order to achieve this). Babies generally love this sensation as it gives them a sense of freedom they won’t experience on land.

Giving them a little feed in the bath will reinforce a safe and nurturing association with the water (breast or bottle obviously, as opposed to fish ‘n’ chips!) – they’ll soon learn to associate the comfort of milk with the comfort of being in warm water.

Once you’re confident – and they’re a little bigger and used to it – don’t be shy about putting a whole handful of water over their head. Just make sure it’s all really fun!

Once bath time is over, wrap them up in a lovely warm towel to keep them nice and toasty!

Call 01603 263 227 for more information

waterbabies.co.uk

The Parent & Baby Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spring/Summer

Taster Sessions

A watery world of confidence, skill and fun! To give your baby a splashing start call

01603 263 227

or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk

twinkletwinkle@waterbabies.co.uk

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teach your baby to swim!

The Parent & Baby Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spring/Summer

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Are you school ready? by Sarah Wynn If you have a child starting school in September, no doubt you will currently be waiting anxiously for the 18th of April to discover what school your child will be attending. This time last year I was in your position with my daughter Poppy. As a Reception teacher of nearly 9 years, I thought I would take all of this in my stride.....this was not the case. I was just as nervous as everyone else, if not more so! I knew Poppy was ready to go to school, but I was worried she would be tired with the long hours, two of her days needing to be in wraparound care due to me working. I was worried she wouldn’t make friends, because we had just moved to the area, and I was worried that she might not handle the pressure and challenges of school as well as I hoped. Well how wrong I was! She has more energy than ever, she has more friends than ever and she astounds me every day with the new skills she comes home with. Now I should have known all of this. I teach Reception and I am passionate about it, I know what sponges these children are and how, most of the time, they take everything in their little strides. I also know that most of the anxiety that we have when children start school is actually from the parents, not the children. So I am going to take my parent head off now and put my teacher one on. THEY WILL BE FINE. THEY WILL LOVE IT. THEY WILL AMAZE YOU. THEY WILL MAKE YOU PROUD.

2. Before September, teach your child skills that will help them become more independent. Being able to dress themselves, put on their own coat and gloves, put on their own shoes, wash their own hands and tidy their own toys away are all things they will be asked to do. It will also help their confidence as they go out into that big World. If your child is still finding toilet training a bit tricky, visit your local Sure Start Centre or contact your health visitor. There are people out there who can help and support you with this. 3. If your child doesn’t go to a nursery already, begin taking them to groups and have play-dates with other children to help them socialise. Encourage turn taking and sharing, all things they will have to do in school. 4. Your child will be taught to read and write in school, but you can teach them a love of books. Share books, talk about the pictures, take them to the library, make books part of your bedtime routine. 5. Finally….be positive about school. Talk to your child about September, what’s going to happen and how great it will be to make new friends and explore new surroundings. There are also lots of children’s books out there which deal with the subject of starting school. ‘I am too absolutely small for school’ by Charlie and Lola creater Lauren Child is an excellent example, but there are plenty more. Cbeebies also have their brilliant series ‘Time for school’ which will show your child what a school setting looks like.

Here is a list of tips that can help you to settle your child even quicker into school life. It is one we share with parents at my school and I am sure it will be shared to you by your child’s school too. 1. Go to any open days your school may have before your child starts. It will help your child feel at ease within the setting and will help them get to know the adults that will be caring for them. If you are working or can’t attend maybe get grandparents to take them, they will love being involved too.

Sarah Wynn is a Reception teacher in North Norwich and Mum to Poppy. She also runs an events business called Mumma&More that creates shopping, wellbeing and social events for mums and mums in business. Take a look at her Facebook and instagram pages to discover more.

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Why buy pre-loved

with sisters Katie and Claire from Mum2Mum Market Norwich Why buy nearly new? Well…why not? Children have been kitted out with hand-medowns for years without coming to any serious harm and there are huge savings to be made if you choose to buy pre-loved kids clothes and equipment. You could kit out a nursery for a new baby at 30 - 50% of the high street equivalent prices and often end up with a better brand than you would have bought new. With the cost of buying children’s equipment running to thousands of pounds it is no surprise more and more parents are preferring to buy second hand.

and parents-to-be. It’s a great place to buy a second hand pram, clothes, cot, highchair, toys, books, anything aimed at babies, children or pregnancy and in great condition. During the many, many purchases of two pregnancies, plus the first 18 months of our babies’ lives, we have developed a keen sense of what is essential, what is useful and what is unnecessary. Whilst also becoming experts at picking up bargains at second hand sales of course.

Here are our TOP TIPS for buying nearly new:

Mum2Mum Market Norwich organise monthly pop-up sales of baby, children’s and maternity goods where parents book a table and sell their outgrown clothes, toys, books, highchairs, prams (anything child or baby related) to other parents

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Be organised and do your research beforehand. Go with a list of items you need and a price you are willing to pay for them.

Baby, Kids & Maternity

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Look for items that are clean and not heavily worn.

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Ask the seller for a demo and don’t be shy to have a go yourself! Collapsing and assembling pushchairs often requires a ‘nack’ and there is no substitute for being talked through it by a mum that knows the tricks.

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All second hand toys should have the CE mark and toys approved by the British Toy and Hobby Association also carry the Lion Mark. You should also check that the toy is suitable for the age of your child, a toy suitable for a 3 year old might be a danger for a 3 month old.

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Hopefully the seller will have the instruction book for any large purchases like pushchairs or cots. If not, these can often be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

NEARLY NEW SALE

10am - 12pm Saturdays QUEENS HILL PRIMARY SCHOOL Kestrel Avenue Queen’s Hills, Costessey, NR8 5FT 28th April, 15th July LIONWOOD INFANT & JUNIOR SCHOOL - Wolfe Road, Norwich, NR1 4HT 9th June

Don’t be afraid to haggle! Everyone loves a bargain!

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

4 tips on how to re-connect with your little ones by A Moment Photography If there’s one thing we know as parents it’s that our children grow up way too fast. Do you ever wish you could freeze precious moments and look back at them over time? Although we cannot stop time, we can slow down our days and learn how to treasure these amazing moments we have together. With the rise of Hygge (which is a term connected with coziness) and the realization that screen time interrupts how you interact with your little ones, we must take a few minutes each day to appreciate time with family and remember what’s important.

1. Disconnect with technology. Turn off your phones, computers and TV and embrace some down time with blankets, hot chocolates and cuddles. 2. Reading a bedtime story, playing a board game together, helping with homework can all help build trust and affection between you and your children. 3. Write letters. We all do memory books/ folders – but why not add in letters for them to read when they are 16/18? Include humour, their quirky personality traits and of course how much you love them. 4. Lastly, hire a professional photographer to capture your special moments and milestones forever.

A Moment Photography is a professional studio based in Norwich. We craft photography sessions like no other, ensuring we deliver unforgettable memories which you and your children can treasure forever. www.amomentphotography.co.uk Find us on

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The Parent & Baby Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spring Edition Spring/Summer

What is a Forest School? by Dandelion Education Ltd Forest Schools are fundamentally an ethos driven approach to learning that takes place entirely out of doors. Being out of doors has many, well documented, benefits including developing mental well-being, access to vitamin D, enhanced relaxation, improved sleep patterns and increased physical development. There is a strong link between these benefits and improved cognitive development.

The best classroom and the richest cupboard is roofed only by the sky Margaret McMillan

In order to fully meet childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual needs settings must maintain the high Forest School ratios of 1:2 for 2 year olds and 1:6 for older children. Forest School leaders create a positive environment which encourages and reinforces caring, nurturing and acceptable behaviour towards one another, the environment and equipment. They promote effective relationships in which all are accepted, valued and treated equally. They place the needs of the children, including needs linked to their preferred learning styles as well as social and behavioural needs at the centre of their learning to maximise individual success and raise self-esteem.

Sessions run on an observe-planimplement-review cycle. This is a system based on partnership between the learner and the teacher. A partnership where roles are fluid and often the teacher becomes the learner. Children learn more out of doors from a square metre of earth than they ever could inside a centrally heated classroom dominated by a giant whiteboard.

Find us on http://dandelionsnorfolk.com

Award winning nursery offering a unique ethos based on: Philosophy 4 Children, Forest School, Emotional Literacy

NORWICH OPEN DAY SATURDAY 10th MARCH 2pm- 4pm Opening in Church Lane, Eaton Vale, NR4 6NN Easter 2018 Registration now open

Forest Schools promote holistic development; fostering resilience, confidence, independence and creativity. They help children to risk assess for themselves. Children are empowered with the ability to manage risk effectively rather than following the disquieting current trend towards a risk averse, fearful society.

Nursery of The Year Enabling Environment of the Year Ofsted Outstanding In All Areas: 'Teaching is inspirational. Children thrive in this unique setting' Managed/Founded by Qualified Teachers www.dandelionsnorfolk.com dandelionsnorfolk@gmail.com

The Parent & Baby Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spring/Summer

N O RW I C H H I G H P R E P S C H O O L A N D N U R S E RY F O R G I R L S A G E D 3 T O 1 1

At our modern Prep School and Nursery, we believe that learning is the ultimate adventure. We are committed to providing an unrivalled educational experience that puts girls first. We cherish each girl, nurturing their ideas and helping them to become the best possible version of themselves. To find out more about our high-quality, all-encompassing education for girls or to book a personalised tour and taster session, contact our Registrar by calling 01603 453 265 or emailing admissions@nor.gdst.net 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU www.norwichhigh.gdst.net

NORWICH HIGH PREP SCHOOL AND NURSERY

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

An Introduction to Norwich High Prep School and Nursery Where is Norwich High Prep School and Nursery? The Norwich High Prep School and Nursery is based on a beautiful 14 acre site on Newmarket Road, as part of Norwich High School for Girls. On the site there is a Nursery for girls to join us from when they are 3 years old, a Prep School for girls aged 4 to 11, a Senior School for girls aged 11 to 16 and a modern Sixth Form Centre. Each girl has access to a wide selection of excellent facilities for sport, swimming, performing and creative arts, computing, outdoor learning and play. We also have a flexible mini-bus service covering all of the main Norfolk roads. How many pupils do you currently have? Across the whole school we have over 620 pupils. In our Nursery, we care for and educate up to 20 girls in a bright, cheerful and spacious selfcontained building with its own enclosed garden, undercover outdoor area and a wide selection of toys and play equipment. In our Prep School we currently have approximately 180 girls. Classrooms are airy and spacious, many in purpose built extensions, allowing for modern additional facilities such as a Science Lab, Computing Suite, Library, Art Studio and Pastoral Room. Can you tell me a bit about your curriculum offer at the Norwich High Prep School and Nursery? At the Norwich High Prep School, we believe that learning should be the ultimate adventure. The curriculum provides the roadmap for this educational journey and we ensure that it provides plenty of irresistible learning experiences along the way. Girls can immerse themselves in hand-picked literature during their English lessons and become expert problem-solvers through a challenging Mathematics curriculum. Science, technology, performing and creative arts, sport and languages form an integral part of our rich curriculum. Our rich and varied curriculum is underpinned by our unique Believing in Butterflies programme and ‘Qualities for Learning’ which are designed to

develop skills and attributes that will put our girls first in the World beyond school. Do you have an extra-curricular programme for your girls? Essential to the Norwich High experience is a dynamic selection of activities, programmes, and learning experiences that complement what our girls are learning in school. A wide range of over 30 activities and specialist clubs held during lunchtimes or after school cater for all interests including art, music, outdoor learning, drama, chess, cheerleading, fitness and sport. Performance and music are key parts of every girl’s education at the Norwich High Prep School, with high standards reached in various music examinations, as well as in speech and drama, writing and poetry competitions. The school also offers an ever expanding programme of sporting activities include major games such as hockey, netball and cricket, and sports such as gymnastics, dance, trampolining, tennis, cross country and athletics. Do you feel there is a new importance on teaching entrepreneurship skills with many job markets being saturated? Absolutely. In our Senior School, we have developed our pioneering Inspiring Females programme. Inspiring Females is made up of a series of unique high-energy events spread across the year, all with the core aims of personal development, preparing young women for their futures, creating platforms to explore their questions and ensuring each individual’s voice is heard. We’re celebrating 100 years of the Women Vote - have you done anything special at your school to celebrate and educate this significance? In January, budding historians at Norwich High helped to uncover the life of local Suffragette, MP and Norwich High Alumna, Dorothy Jewson, with the help of BBC Radio Norfolk and local historian and author, Frank Meeres.

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring/Summer

Free or Low-Cost Ideas for Family Trips in Norfolk by Norwich Mumbler

Parents know that getting out and about with their little ones is often a much better alternative to staying in and watching Mr Tumble (how many programmes is Justin Fletcher on??) or, trying your hardest to put off the inevitable, by thinking of more reasons why now isn’t a good time to get the paints out. Trips out with the family are a fabulous way of letting off steam, spending some quality time together and generally exploring what is on offer across the county, but costs can add up. So, I’ve listed some of Mumbler’s tried and tested free or low-cost ideas for family trips in Norfolk! I’ve written a few details about the place and included an idea for somewhere nearby you can go to eat, because let’s face it, food or cake bribery is sometimes necessary…and no one likes a ‘hangry’ toddler/child/partner.

Winterton-on-sea This has been our favourite beach for some time. It gets busy in the summer time and when the weather is nice, but never feels too busy or commercial. There is only a beach café and toilet facilities, so not the place to go if you want entertainment or arcades.

High Lodge, Thetford Forest Technically in Suffolk, Thetford Forest is so close to Norfolk, I’m listing it! High Lodge is a great day out for families; with running, walking and cycling trails, plus sound trail, climbing sculptures, sand play, slides, huge swings and den building, you can really tire out your little ones for the day! There is a charge for parking but this includes the entrance fee. The café on site serves hot and cold food, but if it’s a nice day you can always hire a BBQ (bookable online before you get there!).

As well as the café next to the beach, there is a lovely pub called the Fisherman’s Return a short walk from the little row of shops you pass when you drive into Winterton. The pub is child-friendly and has a children’s menu with a selection of kiddy type grub choices.

Holt Country Park A place for beautiful woodland walks, Holt Country Park is just a short drive from Holt and is open every day of the year. As well as the walks, you can spot the wooden sculptures dotted around and have a play in the play area with climbing frames and swings. There isn’t a café, so take your own food or, after letting your little ones run wild in the woods for a while, hop in the car to go into Holt to a café, or drive to The Pigs pub at Edgefield. This pub always comes up as one recommended for families!

The Parent & Baby Magazine – Spring Edition Spring/Summer

Henry Blogg Museum, Cromer If the draw of the beach isn’t enough and you fancy taking in a bit of local history, head to the Henry Blogg Museum, which is dedicated to the most decorated lifeboatman in RNLI history, who served for 53 years on Cromer’s lifeboats. I’ve taken several classes of children to the museum, so I know it’s a hit with kids, and entry is FREE! To round off your visit, who can resist fish and chips at the beach?

Norwich Cathedral Not forgetting the great familyfriendly places and activities in the city, Norwich Cathedral is a beautiful place to visit. The Cathedral often has exhibitions on and offers free Explorer bags to loan for 5-11 year olds, which contain various items to help entertain them during their visit. If you’re not sure whether your little ones are too young to enjoy the Cathedral, why not wait until they hold one of their Family Fun Days? Lots of activities for children, singing and shows, plus they often have a small soft play area set up for teeny ones. There are several great places to eat in the city that are accommodating to children and families. Jamie’s Italian and the Waffle House are just two that are always recommended by parents on the Norwich Mumbler Chat group on Facebook.

Blickling Estate (National Trust) If you haven’t been here before, you will not fail to be impressed by the site of this stately home at the end of the driveway. You can pay to look around the house and garden but access to the park walks, shops and cafés is free. There’s also a little-known children’s play area in the walled garden opposite the Buckinghamshire Arms. As well as the pub, there are 3 cafes. High chairs, cups and water jugs are available at The Stables café and, according to their website, baby slings and hip seats are also available to hire.

Norwich Mumbler is a parenting community website run by Katrin Oldridge, Mum of 2 Mini Mumblers. Head to the website for all the information parents need for in and around Norwich: https://norwich.mumbler.co.uk Follow us on

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