Issue 6 Spring 2015
SPRING HAS SPRUNG
Get flower making with our easy Spring crafts
5
Human Milk for Human Babies
SLEEP PRODUCTS to get you through the night
We hear from one mum about her experiences of donated breastmilk
EXPERT TIPS
on being the perfect birth partner
Sex & co-sleeping
GREAT OFFERS Get 20% off at
How to keep your love life exciting while bed-sharing
Plus What’s on guide - Easter Holiday activities across the UK
Debt advice from Citizen’s Advice Bureau
Easter Recipe for all the family www.visitfromthestork.co.uk from the stork The UK’s only Magazine forvisit young parents
page1
page 2
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Editor’s Letter
S
pring is a funny old season. Just when you think it’s safe to venture outside with the kids to the park, then down comes the snow (or more likely, the rain here in Manchester!). Then the next day, out comes glorious sunshine again. As I’m writing this just past the February half term, the countdown to the Easter holidays has no doubt already begun for most kids! ust like the weather, we’ve varied our subjects in this, the 6th issue (!) of Visit from the Stork Magazine. We wanted to give you something to read right up to Easter and beyond – we’ve got just the thing for keeping the kids entertained with our Spring flower crafts on page 18, a gorgeous three course meal for Easter Sunday on page 16 and an Easter crossword for the kids on page 35. s many of you know, we have recently undertaken a large breastfeeding research project which is now underway, so this issue we decided to feature two wonderful projects about breastfeeding. Firstly, we meet Rebekah and Marie from Nurture and Nurse, a social enterprise in Salford whose aim is to provide antenatal workshops and private care to mums struggling to breastfeed. (page 14) Secondly, we talk to Human Milk for Human Babies about the ins and outs of donated Breastmilk, and how their service can help mums. (page 15) Other highlights this issue include our top 5 products to help bedtime go that little bit smoother, (page 30) our pick of this season’s fashion for mums, with the theme of fitness (page 33) (there are some AWESOME leggings
J
A
Editor’s Letter
available!) and for those of you about to ‘pop’ an article with top tips for your birth partner from our expert Lynsey Hansford on page 10. We thought we’d spice things up a little this issue and go cosmo-style with an article about having a sex life while co-sleeping on page 24. Finally, we have our brand new What’s On guide, with our pick of the best activities going on around Easter time for the whole family. Find it on page 36. As always, a MASSIVE thank you to our volunteers, supporters and advertisers, we couldn’t do it without you. Remember, if you need any advice, information or just simply need a chat, we are available on social media and the website all the time.
Kimberly X
/visitfromthestork @VFTSeditor /visitfromthestork Thanks to:Staffordshire University Journalism Department, University of Salford Business School, Salford CVS and all of our advertisers for their support. Visit from the Stork magazine is published and produced in-house by Visit from the Stork CIC. Design and layout by Press A design (www.pressadesign.co.uk) Visit from the Stork is a Community Interest Company, Registered Company Number 8963615 Registered address: Suite 8, 2 Beaumont Road, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 6BE Visit from the Stork proudly adheres to the Press Complaints Commission Editor’s Code of Practice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. Text and pictures are sent at the owner’s risk. Views and opinions expressed in Visit from the Stork magazine are those of the individuals and not representative of the publishers/ and or its associated partners. All information is correct at the time of going to print. All advice is intended for educational purposes only. VFTS cannot be held responsible or liable for any loss or claim arising out of the use or misuse, of the suggestions made. If you have any health concerns, please consult your GP or other health professional.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page3
VFTS family
The VFTS Family
Thank you to our wonderful team of volunteers, we couldn’t do it without you!
Our Editors Kimberly Bond Editor-in-Chief
Gemma Walsh Features Editor
@VFTSeditor
@GemmaLwalsh
Hayley Auffret Spotlight Editor
Emily Moore Comic Art Editor
@hayleyauffret
@Foxhatart
Contributors this issue Lynsey Hansford Writer & Doula
Claire Carey Writer
@redhairdoula
@mumma_carey
Nicola Simpson Arts & Crafts Writer @artscrafts264
Francesca Pullen Writer & History teacher @FranPullen
Want to join our family? We have spaces for volunteer contributors for the website and magazine. Contact Kimberly on visitfromthestork@gmail.com for an application form. page 4
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Contents
In this issue... Would you and your little one like to be our cover star for a future issue? We are looking for young parents and their babies to be cover stars for future magazines. We have 6 spaces available over the coming year. If you think your little one would be up for the challenge email us visitfromthestork@gmail.com Spotlight 6 Easybelts
Pregnancy
Our highlights...
9 Bump to baby...your second trimester 10 Birth Partner tips from a doula
Health Features
Page 6
14 Interview with Nurture and Nurse 15 Human milk for Human babies 16 Easter recpe for all the family
Real Life
Page 16
21-22 Fran Hewitt
Early Years
30 Top 5 Bedtime pRODUCTS 31 aDVENTURES IN BABYWEARING 32 kIDS FASHION
Page 31
Page 39
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Lifestyle
28 Money - Debt advice from CAB 24 Relationships - Co-sleeping & sex 33 Fitness fashion 36 What’s on guide
Just for you
8 VFTS News - Behind the scenes at VFTS 12 Subscribe for just ÂŁ9.99 per year! 26 The Motherhood club 37 Useful services directory 39 World book day Competition
visit from the stork
page5
Product Spotlight
Each issue our Spotlight Editor Hayley Auffret chooses one parenting or baby product which has grabbed her attention and she thinks will make your parenting duties a tad easier! If you would like your business to appear in our Product spotlight for Summer 2015, send an email to visitfromthestork@gmail.com with 200 words about your business by the 30th April 2015 to be considered.
Our chosen product this issue is Easybelts, an easy-fastening velcro belt for both children and adults. We speak to owner & CEO Kay Heffernan. How did you come up with the idea for your product ? The concept of EasyBelts was first started when my children were younger, due to the problems I had finding a belt that my son could manage. He was all legs and a little waist, nothing fitted him. I was driven mad just finding school trousers never mind a belt! The idea to secure the belt with Velcro made sense, so I designed a children’s belt that was Velcro closing, elasticated and adjustable to fit that would allow for growth and one that children could manage.
page 6
visit from the stork
“Sometimes we forget, it’s the little things that make life easier.”
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Product Spotlight
How has your brand and product changed since launching?
When I first started Easybelts it was because I needed a belt for my for my child and if I needed one so must other mothers and so school belts were my first project. Then I added a casual range which offered a colourful choice to cover all occasions, and soon I was being asked for smaller belts and so I introduced the toddler range. These are very popular as many mothers know once your child starts potty training having easy clothing is a must, and without the nappies suddenly their clothes don’t fit them. My belts seem to help solve this problem.
Why are Easybelts needed?
Unless your child is the perfect size most jeans or trouser are loose on kids. If they have an adjustable waist, most times it just gathers the waist and makes it uncomfortable. Having a belt that children can manage is a great help, saves the parent being on hand every time to do up the belt and helps the child to be independent and builds confidence. Sometimes we forget it’s the little things that make life easier and with Easybelts you have just that; an easy to fasten belt for all ages.
What’s been the biggest challenge your business has faced?
I think for anyone starting a business, especially a product that is new to the market, the main challenge is the first step; having the confidence in yourself and your idea and a desire to see your idea come alive. But having an idea is just the start, and for me was a slow start with many problems, most of them because I didn’t know what I was doing. It’s one thing to have an idea and then to produce the product, but then it all becomes so complicated with working out how to do a website and all the social media. Just when you think it’s time to give up some one sends you a lovely review and you think “Yes, I can do this.” If you have a product that is a little bit different, getting the public to listen and try it can be difficult. I think the real challenge is not giving up on your dreams.
Where can customers order from you and what’s your price range? Easybelts have their own web shop - Easybelts.co.uk and there you will find a wide choice of belts starting from Toddlers to Adults and we also offer made to measure belts. Our price start from £5.00 to £7.00 for children’s belts.
20% off at
What are your main aims for 2015?
Our plan for this coming year is to offer a wider range of belts, and we are pleased to say Easybelts will be working with several large nursery chains as our toddler range has worked very well and a lot of interest has been generate within this area. We also plan on selling through several large children play areas throughout England. Easybelts have also expanded into larger size belts for adults which has proven very popular for anyone with limited hand coordination However our main aim is to continue provide a good quality belt for children and adults and always look for ways to improve our belts. www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
With code VFTS “The real challenge for a business owner is not giving up on your dreams.”
visit from the stork
page7
VFTS News
#Behindthescenes
Because we are more than just a magazine
Salford is talking about BOOBS Our breastfeeding research project Be Enrol now for Open on Breastfeeding in Salford is under- Stork Academy way and we have launched our survey to find out more about mum’s breast- Interested in writing, photography or social media? Want to get trained feeding experiences. We are holding up in skills to enable you to go to focus groups across Salford in the next college, do an apprenticeship or be two months, so come along, meet somepublished with VFTS? mums and have your say about Breastfeeding in Salford. Find us on facebook We are taking expressions of interest for our new training programme under ‘BOOBS Salford’. open to ALL young parents wanting Funded by: to learn new skills. We will be running open, online training sessions, as well as training sessions exclusively for VFTS volunteers. If you are interested in any of the above, watch out for details on our website and Facebook page.
Learn craft for business with vfts Parents interested in learning craft for business will be able to join VFTS and Grumpy Salford in a joint partnership arts and crafts project over the next few months. Parents can come along and join in workshops to make a variety of crafts and learn how to package, price and take them to sale at a local market! The project will run from May onwards. To register your interest go to our website www.visitfromthestork.co.uk and look under Projects & services.
page 8
Sit down for storytime We are teaming up with Little Tiger Press and a company called Little Lambs Tales, to bring you some storytime videos. Over the next few months, tales such as ‘Dr Duck’, ‘I’m Not sleepy’ and the classic ‘Little Red Riding hood will be told through film, creating some wonderful new bedtime stories for your little ones.
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Pregnancy
Bump to Baby...second trimester For most women, the next 12 weeks are the most comfortable part of their pregnancy, as their body starts to get used to the changes it is going through.
image: 123rf.com
How is your body changing? Firstly your energy levels will rise and you will feel more able to plan for your baby’s arrival. You will put on weight rapidly and you will see your ‘bump’ appearing, meaning you will need to start wearing looser clothing and maternity wear. At about 20 weeks you will be feeling your baby kick and move for the very first time, which is a very exciting feeling. This trimester is the time to talk to your midwife, your partner and family about how and where you want to give birth. There are so many options available! There will also be many other physical changes you might experience, such as bleeding gums, puffiness in your legs or ankles and back pain – these are all normal but you might need to go slow and be careful. Get your friends at college or work to help, as well as your family. You should support your back with cushions when you can. The second trimester is when your skin starts to change too. The so-called ‘pregnancy glow’ is caused by an increased volume of blood in your blood vessels, making your cheeks look like you are blushing, as well as increased oil in your glands. Eating a healthy diet during your pregnancy is important. You can talk to your midwife or visit the Healthy Start website about receiving fruit and vegetables for FREE. Around the 20 week mark is an exciting time as you will have another ultrasound who will be able to tell you your due date and (hopefully) your baby’s gender. You might also have Braxton Hicks contractions, which is your uterus getting ready for labour and is usually termed ‘false labour.’
How is your baby growing? During the second trimester your baby will grow and grow and by 28 weeks will be able to respond to sounds outside the womb. Some highlights of the 13th-28th weeks: At week 13, your baby can move their hands more freely and they may suck their thumb. At week 18, their vocal cords will be fully formed - but without air cannot make sounds just yet! At 19 weeks, your baby will have all their reproductive organs formed - for a girl, the vagina, uterus and fallopian tubes, and for boys the penis will hopefully be clear to see at your next scan. At 24 weeks your baby’s taste buds begin to form and they will be able to taste if you drink something strange! At 26 weeks they will be able to detect light through your abdomen and uterus, and will also have a spine beginning to form.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page9
Pregnancy
A Doula’s....top Birth Partner Tips
B
1. Take care to learn her preferences for labour and birth before it begins. Be familiar with her birth plan if she has made one, talk with her about how she feels about labour and birth and what her best and worst outcomes would be. page 10
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Pic by Amy Ransom
eing present for the birth of a baby is a privilege and an experience you’ll never forget. It will be one of the most important days of the birthing mother’s life, so let your presence be an encouraging and supportive force in the birth space. Lynsey Hansford, a doula (professional birth companion), gives her top tips for being a valuable birth partner to the pregnant and labouring woman in your life.
Image thanks to Scarymommy.com
Pregnancy
2. Consider individual personality traits and life experiences These might shape the labour and birth experience for you both e.g. fear of needles or blood, or being uncomfortable with a male caregiver. You can use this information to advocate for her. Ideally, her caregivers will already be aware of what she needs to make her comfortable but she will be vulnerable and using all of her energy on the labour process. This is not the time for her to have to explain her preferences or justify her choices. Be prepared to be assertive on her behalf if necessary. 3. Use your BRAIN and remember this acronym to help you. When faced with a choice consider: What are the BENEFITS?; What are the RISKS?; What are the ALTERNATIVES?; What is my INTUITION telling me?; What will happen if we do NOTHING?. These questions can help get to the pertinent information so you can assist the labouring mother in considering her options and making an informed choice about the course of her labour. There are few true emergencies and one of the most helpful things you might do is ask for some time together to consider the information you have just been given.
4. Take care of yourself Make plans to meet your needs for food, drink and clean clothing. Plan ahead to have sufficient fuel in your car if driving to the hospital, and change for the parking meter. Choose the time to take a break thoughtfully if you are the only birth partner present. 5. Enjoy
Finally, try to be present and enjoy. The birth space is a magical place, you are going to be part of something extraordinary. www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
When faced with a choice to make during labour, think about the following options:
Benefits Risks Alternatives Intuition Nothing
visit from the stork
page11
Subscribe for only ÂŁ9.99 per year! Get the magazine to your door FIRST before it goes out to distributors Recieve our newsletter with subscriber-only discounts and offers Enjoy special free gifts throughout the year
www.visitfromthestork.co.u
page 12
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
VFT
S
/visitfromthestork
@VFTSeditor visitfromthestork
uk/vfts-magazine/subscribe www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page13
Health - You and your baby
M
any new mums make the decision during pregnancy to breastfeed their baby, whilst others decide to ‘have a go’ and see if it is right for them when the time comes. One company who has a mission to engage with mums to give them more information about Breastfeeding, is Nurture and Nurse, a community Interest company based in Eccles, in Salford. Editor-in-Chief Kim talks to Directors Marie and Rebekah about their work.
What made you decide to start up Nurture and Nurse?
We are both parents ourselves and feel that we could have benefited from more information about breastfeeding whilst pregnant. We are also both OCN accredited Breastfeeding Helpers, which means we are trained to peer support other mums, and wanted to use our training out in the community.
What services do you offer?
We are able to provide help for individual families based on circumstances or need. We provide free antenatal group workshops, one to one workshops and/or support to families in the home after birth. Our focus is on supporting women who have made an informed choice on how to feed their baby. We run antenatal classes and workshops for parents to be at any stage of pregnancy. They cover all sorts of topics including answering questions like How will I know my baby has had enough? and talking about breastfeeding myths. We also offer one-to-one antenatal support to help you prepare for breastfeeding your baby. We also offer private peer suppot for £35/hour - this is dedicated home support both before and after having your baby.
How can young parents access your services or get involved in helping? Any young parents or parents-to-be wanting to attend one of our workshops about breastfeeding can goto our website www.nurtureandnurse.co.uk or email nurtureandnurse@gmail.com to get some more information. We are also recruiting young parents to become peer supporters themselves. If you fancy being trained as a breastfeeding supporter then get in touch!
page 14
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
The Stylish Breastfeeding Scarf Provides versatile discretion without sacrificing style. Can be used when tandem feeding. 100% cotton jersey Made in the UK www.snoob.co.uk www.facebook.com/snoobscarf www.twitter.com/snoobscarf snoobsales@gmail.com
Health- you and your baby
Human milk for Human Babies T
he community Human Milk 4 Human Babies is a global milk-sharing network made up of thousands of members across fifty countries. The mission of HM4HB is to promote the nourishment of babies and children around the world with human milk, with the core principle of giving informed choice to parents. Claire Carey tells us her experience of milk sharing with HM4HB.
Many mothers believe that donated breast milk should be a viable option before infant formula and want to furthermore promote the idea of returning to the traditional practices of milk sharing and wet nursing within communities. My own personal experience began when I donated breast milk to a milk bank after the birth of my fourth child, however, I was surprised at the strict regulations over who is able to access the lovingly donated milk. Priority was given to premature babies, understandably, but consideration was not given to mothers who required it for other reasons.
“I was impressed by the kindness & willingness of the mother to part with their milk for other babies� When I was pregnant with my fifth child I developed gestational diabetes and through careful extensive research I discovered that my baby at birth may not be strong enough to suckle at the breast due to low blood sugars. I decided to begin harvesting colostrum. However, despite trying regularly throughout the day for a few weeks I was unsuccessful. I started to become really concerned about the impact of my newborn not receiving human milk and began to look at alternatives that lead me to HM4HB. I had heard of the network previously and was impressed by the kindness and willingness of mothers to part with their milk for other babies in all manner of circumstances. I placed an advert asking for donations, explaining my situation, and I was thrilled to be offered donated colostrum and milk from local mothers, one of whom had recently given birth to a premature baby. I met with the mother and instantly felt at ease. There is a huge amount of trust, and taking people at face value when it comes to milk sharing but I believe I have strong instincts in identifying someone’s integrity. When I came to give birth, my blood sugars remained stable and my little boy Jason was absolutely fine and able to nurse from the breast straight away. However, due to a posterior tongue tie which resulted in him struggling to stay latched I did use some of the donated breast milk, via cup, to top him up. I would not hesitate to use donated breast milk again in the future.
To find out more about Human Milk for Human Babies find their Facebook page. www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page15
Easter recipe
Easter yumminess
Recipe and Pictures by Francesca Pullen
Easter is a time for families and good food and with these great dishes you will have smiling faces all around!
Starter - Baked Camembert What you need: (makes for 3-4 people) A boxed camembert 2-3 sprigs of thyme, take the leaves from the stalks 1 tablespoon olive oil Ciabatta or baguettes to serve Firstly, Preheat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7 and unwrap the cheese. With a sharp knife you should slice off the top layer of rind and return the cheese back to box which you should place on a baking tray. Then season the camembert with salt and ground pepper, sprinkling over the thyme leaves and olive oil before baking in the oven for 15 minutes. A super easy starter with some great taste!
Main - Minted Rack of Lamb For the lamb:
Rack of lamb – will serve up to 4 people (If you like a lot of meat with your meal, buy an extra one!) 1 shallot Fresh mint – grab a couple of handfuls 3 cloves of garlic Olive oil 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard The side dish is your selection of vegetables. Yet another delicious dish. To start you should preheat your oven to 220C/180C fan/gas 6 and place the rack of lamb, fat side down into a frying pan that has a tablespoon of olive oil in it. Make sure you season the meat side of the lamb with salt and pepper and then seal the meat off until it is brown. This should take no more than 5 minutes. Make sure you keep turning the meat so it doesn’t burn. page 16
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Easter Recipe
While sealing the meat you should place the shallot, garlic, mustard, mint and 3 tablespoons of olive oil into a food processor and blend well. This will be smothered over the meat side of the lamb once it has rested out of the pan for 5 minutes. Place this meat side up and roast in the oven. I like my meat medium rare and for the desired meat you should cook it for 22 minutes. If you like your meat more or less cooked, adjust your time accordingly. You can do this recipe with any kind of lamb too! I just find that the rack of lamb had the best quality lamb for this recipe. Serve with your favourite vegetables and you have yourself a gorgeous Easter meal.
Dessert – Easter Cheesecake What you need: 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, make sure it is softened 100g of finely ground almonds 800g of cream cheese at room temperature 120ml of double cream 210g of caster sugar 4 large eggs, these should be lightly beaten Grated zest of 1 lemon Grated zest of 1 orange 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A fairly easy dessert that can be made the day before and should be cooked on a 160C/140C fan/gas mark 3 temperature. You need to butter a round cake pan, preferably with a removable bottom for ease and ensure you have at least a 2 inch depth to it. Start by dusting with ground almonds (this will act as the base) and set aside whilst you blend your ingredients. In the bowl you should beat cream cheese, cream, and sugar until smooth using an electric mixer, then add the beaten eggs with the lemon and orange zests and vanilla and beat until smooth. You will then need to pour into the prepared cake pan and place this into a deep roasting pan. You will then need to transfer this to the oven rack and add enough boiling water to the roasting pan to come two-thirds up the side of the cake pan. Bake until firm which will take about 2 hours. You will need to add more boiling water as the cake bakes if necessary. Once cooked you should turn the oven off and allow the cake to cool in the oven completely before transferring to the fridge to cool overnight. www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page17
Spring Crafts
Floral Fun By Nicola Simpson, Aka Multi-crafting Mummy
H
elp your kids to create this cute flower collage to celebrate the arrival of spring. It would also make a great decoration to go on the front of a Mother’s Day card.
You will need: Paper Muffin cases (Green, Yellow) Bun cases Buttons Glue Scissors Crayons
1.Cut a long stem and two leaves for the flower using green paper. 2.Cover with glue and stick these onto the centre of a sheet of paper or onto the front of a card. 3.Flatten out the larger muffin case and put a splodge of glue into the centre and stick this down on top of the stem. 4.Run your fingers around the edges to make your flower stand out on the page.
page 18
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Spring Crafts
By Nicola Simpson, AKA multicrafting5.Glue your smaller bun case into the centre of the muffin mummy
case and glue a button into the centre of it.
6.Add on some grass by cutting a green muffin case in half and gluing this on or draw some on with a green crayon.
TOP TIP FOR TODDLE RS Prepare everything ahead of the activity so you can get straight on with the gluing and sticking!
Tips for older kids
Let them take control of the curting out. Encourage them to use their imaginations to make the picture their own. They might want to add on some bugs or butterflies to turn it into a Spring Garden picture or they could turn it into a bunch of flowers collage with the addition of a ribbon.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page19
page 20
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Real life
“I’m determined to keep fighting against the disease and be the best mum I can to Michael.” Gemma Walsh interviews one inspirational mum who is battling the symptoms of Multiple sclerosis.
M
otherhood can be daunting the first time for any woman, but when you’re battling an undiagnosed condition it can add even more pressure. That’s exactly what happened to Fran Hewitt, 24, who gave birth to baby Michael in December 2013. She started to show symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis in 2008 but after an MRI (where they look for lesions on the brain) she was given no
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
diagnosis. “I was having chronic migraines, slurred speech and muscle weakness, especially in my right leg. At times I got my sentences mixed up but mostly I had memory issues,” says Fran. Multiple Sclerosis is a neurological disorder that affects around 100,000 people in the UK, most being between the ages of 20 and 40.
visit from the stork
page21
Real life
Fran’s mum was also diagnosed with MS in 2008, which carried a slightly higher risk of her also developing the condition. After multiple tests (including another MRI in 2011) and a difficult pregnancy ‘with dizziness pretty much constantly’ , Fran delivered healthy baby Michael on Christmas Eve via C-Section. But the symptoms did not disappear. It was only when she went for a third MRI in March 2014 that more lesions on the brain started to show. Fran was eventually diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in September 2014. “MS is a progressive disease - there is no magical pill that can cure it.” It’s scary for any parent knowing that they have a condition that will never be cured, but Fran is determined not to let it beat her.
housebound.
‘I’ve only had one relapse since my diagnosis. I spent it on the sofa and was not able to be the fun loving mum to Mickey. But I’m determined not to let it make me
Fran has now found many friends all over the world through online MS support groups where she can get advice and also help others. Her best advice is that MS ‘is not the end of your ordinary day-to-day life. There are 16 main symptoms of MS so making sure you understand them and what you could do to prevent them is invaluable.’ Although not technically hereditary, having a parent with the condition does carry a slightly higher risk of developing it in later life. As all mums would be she does get worried about the possibility of Michael having it too. She says: ‘Hopefully even if he does show symptoms in 10, 15 or 20 years time, there will have been more research and maybe even a cure.’ But she’s still always determined to keep fighting and be the best mum she can be. ‘My favourite quote is don’t ruin a good today because you had a bad yesterday.’ Fran and her fiancé Tom are now planning their wedding for May 2016 and we wish them, and baby Michael, all the best. To find out more about Multiple Sclerosis visit www.mssociety.org.uk and don’t suffer in silence.
page 22
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page23
Lifestyle - Relationships
Three A
ccording to the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) approximately half of all parents co-sleep with their child at some point. This means that parents’ beds are, well, already preoccupied when it comes to sharing those intimate moments. So how can you get around the inevitable ‘problem’ co-sleeping may cause your sex life to have? Claire Carey, mum of 5, and her husband Mark have some tips...
in
W
hen I had my first child in 2000 I listened to everyone else’s opinion on how to raise my child and a consequence of this was ignoring my instincts, my mother’s intuition, and instead doing what I believed would enable me to ‘fit in’ with what was expected of me as a mother, I felt guilty when we did co-sleep, as it was against the ‘norm’, so it was not something we did for very long. When I had my second child six years later, after experiencing secondary infertility, I had gained my confidence and found my voice. It felt natural to bring our little girl into the family bed and keep her close to enable us to respond to her immediately, it made breastfeeding easier and I felt calm knowing she was safe in the crook of my arm and I could hear and regulate her breathing. We now have five children and we have coslept with all of them for varying lengths of time from a few weeks until 5 years old. We are still co-sleeping with our youngest child who is 2 years 3 months.
page 24
visit from the stork
When people discover our sleeping arrangements we have often been asked how on earth we manage to have a sex life! Clearly it has not been an issue as we have conceived four more children, and not on the first try either, but it is presumed that co-sleeping and no sex life go hand in hand. My husband and I have been a passionate couple since the day we met and having children strengthened our relationship.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Lifestyle - Relationships
the
“We decided that to maintain our sex lives and co-sleep we would have to be inventive...”
Be safe co-sleepers
bed
We made a pact to one another in the early days of our relationship that we would always make time for one another and our parenting choice to co-sleep would not stop this.
For a start, sex does not have to take place in a bed or even in a bedroom. Most people have more than one room in their house, plus a car, maybe a caravan or a shed?!. So why not use them! And your imagination! Communication is at the heart of our relationship and we actively discussed how we would maintain our sex lives if we co-slept and decided that we would be inventive. We started with a plan to ‘christen’ each room in our house and if we really needed to stay upstairs then we would use the bathroom or the bedroom floor. However, contrary to some people’s beliefs, having sex in the same bed or the same room as a sleeping child is fine! The only thing can be the noise level so if you cannot keep it down then relocate to somewhere else. Even the garden………..
The Department of Health advises that bed-sharing should be avoided if one or both parents: • Smokes. • Has been drinking alcohol. • Has taken drugs, prescription or otherwise, that affect perception, cause drowsiness or affect depth of sleep. •Is excessively tired to the extent that this might affect being able to respond to the baby. Parents can also practice safe co-sleeping by ensuring baby cannot fall out of bed, not using a pillow, and by not falling asleep on a sofa or chair. www.visitfromthestork.co.uk visit from the stork page25
The Motherhood club
Welcome to the Motherhood club, a VFTS cartoon created by Staffordshire University Student Emily Moore. In the previous chapter, Daisy has been told she is 7 weeks pregnant, and now needs to tell the baby’s father...
page 26
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
The Motherhood club
Want to find out how Jake reacts to the news? You can read the next chapter on our website. The comic is now going to be online only and updated regularly, but keep an eye out in the Summer 2015 magazine for a BRAND NEW page just for the kids.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page27
It’s all about
Lifestyle - Debt Advice
M
any parents spend time after Christmas worrying about how much they have spent on toys and gifts, and that their bills are mounting up. With Childcare costs going up and welfare reform having an impact across the country, more people are seeking debt advice. We’ve got Salford Citizen’s Advice Bureau on board to give parents the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about debt...
What are the common types of debt? There are lots of different types of debt parents may have. Common debts include a credit card or store card, personal or payday loans. Then there are bills - for example rent or mortgage arrears, gas or electricity or council tax arrears. There are also fines such as parking penalties.
What’s the difference between priority and non-priority debts? Some debts are more urgent than others because the consquence of not paying them can be more serious than for other debts. These debts are known as priority debts. These include paying off your rent arrears, your gas and electricity bills and your council tax. If you don’t pay these, the consequences could be that you get your supply disconnected, lose your home, or even go to prison. You might also have debts you feel are important to yourself, such as paying for a car on a hire purchase agreement. Non-priority debts are the opposite, creditors that are going to pursue for the money, but you can take a while longer to pay back. Items such as credit cards, store cards, personal loans and loans from friends and family can all be paid back slower than priority debts. Don’t ignore priority debts!
If a parent/family gets behind with their rent, what should they do? If you rent from a registered social landlord such as a housing asssociation or local
authority, the landlord should accept a reasonable offer of repayment. Make sure you keep paying your regular rent amount. Contact the landlord with a copy of your budget and ask them to accept an extra payment each month (or week) on top of your rent to repay the arrears. Start paying the amount you offer as soon as you can. If you rent from
a private landlord such as an individual or through a lettings agency, you may have to agree to clear the arrears more quickly and the landlord may be able to
page 28
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
the money...
Lifestyle - Debt Advice
take action to evict you at an earlier stage. In this case, you may have to cut back your spending for a while so that you can repay the arrears. If you owe rent arrears to a private landlord, you should get advice straight away. You can download a rent arrears factsheet from the CAB website.
What are the rules surrounding bailiffs coming into your home?
If you owe money, a bailiff may visit your home to see if anything you own can be sold to pay the debt. Any money raised from selling belongings is used to pay the bailiff’s fees and charges as well as the debts you owe. Bailiffs can only be used for certain types of debt. Bailiffs must follow a certain process in order to be able to take and sell your goods. This process includes giving you correct notice, and not forcing their way in to your home. They can only take belongings up to the value of what you owe. If you receive a notice of enforcement from a Bailiff, take steps to stop the bailiff action or if it is too late for this, keep your windows and doors shut, and don’t open the door to them, this way they can’t take your goods. If a child under 16 will be alone in your home, make sure they know to tell the bailiff they are under 16 and home alone, as this will mean the bailiff will have to leave.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page29
Early Years
Tippitoes Junior Bed The Tippitoes Junior Bed is a great first bed for your little one. Crafted from Solid pine, it has two reassuring side rails for addition safety which can be removed. Suitable for Toddlers to 5yrs. £65.98, needs mattress 140 x 170 cm sold seperately.
It’s bedtime! Those words can be the start of a nightmare or a blessing for any parent. Whatever happens in your house, we’ve had a quick pick of the top products we think may help bedtime go a bit smoother!
Infacare Night-time Baby Bath A lovely warm bubbly bath is a soothing experience and a great way to ease baby into bedtime. InfaCare Night-time Baby Bath gently cleans and cares for baby’s skin, ready for a restful night sleep. It’s clinically tested and PH balanced, so will work gently on sensitive skin. £3.49 for a large 750ml bottle in Asda and Boots.
page 30
Slumber-Sac sleeping bags
These cute unisex sleeping bags from Slumber sac cater for newborns right up to 10 year olds! Their range includes long-sleeved bags for extra warmth in Winter, travel sleeping bags and innovative sleeping bags with feet for toddlers. They come in 4 tog ratings, and are made with 100% cotton and lined with cotton. www. slumbersac.com Prices from £9
The Gro-Clock This fab little invention helps your toddler to stay in bed ‘until they see the sun’. You can set the time at night and the blue moon and stars will slowly fade to show the passing of time, until the sun rises! Also comes with a fun bedtime story book. RRP £22.99 sold at Amazon, Mothercare, or gro.co.uk
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Early Years VFTS Promotion
Adventures in BabyWearing Carrying your child may well be your ticket to help with your parenting journey and make life easier. We talk to UK specialists Connecta about the benefits.
C
arrying your child in a baby carrier can enhance the journey of parenting in a fast-paced world and the Connecta allows for a safe, secure, stylish and comfortable experience. Carrying your child offers an easy option for both continuing with ‘everyday home life’ and when out and about – public transport, for example, is much easier to navigate and it allows parents and carers the chance to go to places that always easily accessible: beaches, woodlands, hills, stairs and summer festivals. Babywearing isn’t just for Mums either – in the modern age, it offers an opportunity to increase the bonding experience and give parents and carers options in their lifestyle. Of course, Dads and Nana and Granddad all have an opportunity to enjoy these benefits too! Connecta’s managing director and mum-of-three Sarah Sadler said the Connecta aims to be an affordable carrier for everyone to enjoy.
“Carrying your child can be beautiful, a real help and a handsfree option with the day-to-day experience of raising children.” She explained: “The Connecta has been designed by parents for parents with both style and comfort as its main ingredients. Carrying your child can be beautiful, a real help and a hands-free option with the day-to-day experience of raising children.” The Connecta is both comfortable and stylish. It offers a wide range of exciting fabric choices – from classic Liberty of London fabrics, to the recently launched 100% Organic denim, and tattoo-inspired designs - a range with far-reaching appeal. The easy-to-use three-buckle structure of the Connecta and its soft waist strap offers maximum adjustability, allowing for a carrier that can last from birth to toddlerhood.
www.connectababycarrier.com www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page31
EARLY Years
Light up the Kids’ wardrobes with funky prints this spring
2 in 1 Daisy dress £18 Marks & Spencer
We
Y it
nt sleepsu : Comic Pri Baby wears £16 Next set) (part of a
Print House le ggings, £6 Next
2 pack Jersey shorts £4.99, George at ASDA
Model wears: Beach t-shirt £3.50, Skater skirt £7 and Sandals £10, all Tu at Sainsburys
as shoe, Denim floral canv ne zo £4.99 Shoe
page 32
visit from the stork
Shark Print sh
irt £8 F&F at
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Tesco
Lifestyle- Friness fashion
M&S Collection Shard Print t-shirt £19.50 M&S
Floral control Swimsuit Primark, £10
Work It ’ Slogan legging s , New Look £14.99
Watercolour workout jacket £12 Primark
However you do your fitness, look great in this season’s active wear - what a fantastic excuse for some retail therapy! We
Y
M&S Collection Flash print leggings £25.00 M&S
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Printed Sports Vest Newlook £9.99
Mint Ultralight trainer Primark, £12
visit from the stork
page33
page 34
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Early years
Have fun filling in our Easter crossword - online readers can click on the image and download a printable version.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page35
What’s On guide
NORTH
SOUTH
admission. Eureka.org.uk
SE –Chelmsford. Museum Easter egg hunt Follow the Easter egg trail around Chelmsford Museum’s displays. 50p a go for the chance to win a giant Easter egg. Usual museum opening times 28/3/15 to 11/4/15 Chelmsford Museums, Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, CM2 9AQ
NE - Ponteland, Northumberland- Easter Adventure Quest. Crack the clues & win a chocolate prize. 03/04/2015-06/04/2015 Belsay Hall, castle & Gardens. NE - Into the Woods with The Gruffalo & friends. Until 30th March £3 admission 30 Lime Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE1 2PQ NW - Disco at the Jungle, Warrington Every Friday is disco night in The Jungle from 4-6pm. On the last Friday of each month we’ll have a special disco night with our fun family quiz and some great prizes! NW - Experitots at MOSI, Manchester Creative activity sessions for under 6’s. 27th March, 24th April, 15th May, call to book 0161 833 0027. £3 for one adult + one child YORKSHIRE-Easter Half term at Eureka! Meet characters & storytellers. Free with standard
EAST
EA-Norwich. Sustainable Living Festival – face painting, bicycles repairs, A junk band offering free music sessions & more. 10am and 4pm 7 /03/ to 8/03/15 The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF EA-Hunstanton. Free live performances at the band stand on 5/4/15, 4/5/15 and 17/5/17 The green, Hunstanton PE36 6BQ EM- Leicester. Mothersday cards and paper flowers, cost £2.50 stars 11to 1 finishes 2 to 4 on 8/3/15 New Walk Museum & Art Gallery, 53 New Walk, LE1 7EA EM- Nottingham. Family weekends make your own recycled sculpture, create a fossilized object, make your own mini garden to take home and tend and more. Free entry 11 to 3 27/2 to 15/03/2015 Nottingham Contemporary, Weekday Cross, Nottingham, Nottingham, NG1 2GB EM- Oakham. Rutland water bird walk Take a walk around the Egleton reserve and learn all about the birds we have here, the work we are doing, and anything else we bump in to along the way Cost £8 15/5/2015 9.30 to 12.30 Rutland Water, Nature Reserve, Egleton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8BT
page 36
visit from the stork
Poole. Museum music and mime Sing nursery rhymes, make music and learn simple signs for everyday objects at Poole Museum. Suitable for babies and toddlers (0-3 years old) every Friday up to 22/5/2015. Free entry 10.30 – 11.30 Poole Museum Service, 4 High St, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1BW SW-Plymouth. Animal planet. Bring a picture of an animal, it could even be of your own pet and us it to create a unique animal scene. Hopefully you will find the wild life photographer of the year exhibition for inspiring. 10.30 am– 12.30 Plymouth museum. 8/4/2015
S - Brighton Punch & Judy 02-04/05/2015 During Brighton Fringe, join Punch & Judy for some slapstick fun. £4.50, 55 mins, Brighton Fishing Museum Education Room.
WEST
Devon- Free Cream tea for Mums on Mother’s Day at Pennywell Farm. Treat your family to the very best with a full day of animal action at Pennywell Farm, Devon’s friendliest day out. With up to 20 hands on activities, shows and displays. Usual ticket prices adult £13.95 Senior £12.95 and children £9.95. 15/3/2015 Lower Dean, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0LT SW – Bristol. I am Making Art: Free hands-on activity at Spike Island. Illustration workshop for all ages and abilities.12-4.00pm 7/3/15 133 Cumberland Road, Bristol BS1 6UX WM - Warwick Mike The Knight @ Warwick Castle, Meet the CBeebies Character & take part in themed activities. 07/03/2015-22/3/2015 Warwick, CV34 4QU WM - Birmingham - Treasure Trail - Starting at Snow Hill Train Station. To begin you need to pop on to the website to download the trail guide. The clues are on monuments, buildings and statues for you to have family fun whilst looking at the sites of the city. £6.99 for 4-5 people. Opening times is all times during the day.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
Useful Services directory
Editor’s Picks London
St Paddy’s Day is on Tuesday 17th March, but on Sunday 15th March there will be a parade with floats, and Marching band in Trafalgar Square. A food market, children’s theatre, a fashion show and film and comedy festivals are all on the menu this year, as well as lots of fun and music on stage!
Peterborough
Well-known charity Little Miracles is having a 5th Birthday Party on the 1st March. Little Miracles is a parent led support group and Charity for families that have children with additional needs, disabilities and life limiting conditions. Come and celebrate their birthday in Cathedral Square - 11-4pm, with face paint, stall and games for everyone.
Sheffield
You can enjoy an Easter Extravaganza Egg Trail in the beautiful gardens of Renishaw in Sheffield on Sunday 8th and Monday 9th April 10.30am-4.30pm. Other Easter activities will include free face painting, a Punch and Judy show, as well as other family entertainment. Entry is £3 per person, all ages. Easter Egg Trail £1 per child. Tel: 01246 432 310.
Stoke-on-Trent/Stafford
Mums go free this Mother’s Day at Trentham Gardens in Stoke-onTrent, and at the Shugborough Estate in Stafford, when accompanied by a full paying guest (includes children) A wonderful day out for the family in the countryside.
Edinburgh
Lens-on-Legs Photography and Animation workshop. Get ready to ZOOM into action as we learn all about the physics of light, puppet making & storytelling in this weekly animantion & photography club for 4-7 year olds. 6, 13, 20, 27 March 2-3pm £5 in advance. Call 07942358907 to book.
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page37
Useful services
Useful services National Charities
Regional Services
The Ectopic pregnancy foundation has information and support on their website http://www.ectopicpregnancy.co.uk Brook is a sexual health charity for under-25’s. They can help with any aspects of pregnancy, sexual health and offer information about abortion. www.brook.org.uk Bliss charity is for parents who sick or premature babies. www.bliss.org.uk The Miscarriage Association offers advice and guidance on anyone suffering from miscarriage or baby loss. http://www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk Ronald Mcdonald House Charities (RMHC) provides accommodation for families who have got children in hospital. There are currently 14 Ronald Mcdonald Houses in the country. www.rmhc.org.uk Pregnancy Sickness support helps women suffering from extreme pregnancy sickness & have volunteers who have had it themselves. www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk
Peterborough
Little Miracles is a charity based in Peterborough which helps parents with disabled children and those with special needs. www.littlemiraclespeterborough.org. uk Family Nurse Partnership is a service for parents under 20, providing support through home visits right through pregnancy. Speak to your midwife for more information.
Staffordshire NHS Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire runs a support service for young parents with several groups across the city. www.stoke.nhs.uk
Salford & Manchester
Advice Services Citizen’s Advice Bureau is a charity which provides free, confidential and independent advice on all subjects ranging from pregnancy, to benefits and housing. visit www.adviceguide.org.uk for self help information or go to your local branch for an appointment.
Nurture & Nurse CIC provide individual support for families through 1-2-1 workshops and visits before & after birth. Based in Eccles and available across Salford. www.nurtureandnurse.co.uk
Want to advertise your service here? Contact Kimberly on 07402630671 or @VFTSeditor
page 38
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
VFTS competition
Our annual World Book Day competition is back! This year we have partnered with Little Tiger Press for your chance to win their fantastic ‘My first fairy tales’ set of books to enjoy with your little one. With fresh and fun illustrations, these simple re-tellings of classic fairy tales make a perfect bedtime read for three to siz year olds.
TH R WO 0 £6
To be entered in to our draw:
On our website you will find a list of children’s books under our World Book Day competition page. All you have to do is COMMENT with your name and the name of the book you would like your entry to be. It is first come first served! We will put your name next to the book when you have entered. When all of the book names have been filled up, we will close the competition and do the draw! You will find the link to the World Book Day competition on our Facebook page, Twitter & Instagram so make sure you are following us on social media to be in with a chance of winning. The closure of the competition will be announced when all the book names have been taken. The draw will take place by an independent adjudicator and the winner will be notified by social media so please make sure you are able to be contacted. www.visitfromthestork.co.uk
visit from the stork
page39
page 40
visit from the stork
www.visitfromthestork.co.uk