Absolutely Mama February 2020 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

Mama F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 • I S S U E 3 7

Eat

GREEN The Magazine for Stylish Mums

Recipes from Melissa Hemsley

Valentine’s Gift Guide The presents to start dropping hints about

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Best Nurseries INSIDE OUR FAVOURITE SPACES

O n th e

R OA D Selling up & setting off as a family

THE MAGAZINE FOR ST YLISH MUMS 10/01/2020 15:27

the the softest softest and and most most comfortable... comfortable... ever ever We believe We believe that every that every moment moment is worth is worth embracing; embracing; from the from sleep the sleep deprived deprived times times to the to snuggles the snuggles fuelled fuelled by laughter. by laughter. At MORI At MORI we create we create products products for your forlittle your little ones with onesawith gentle a gentle touch touch from sustainable from sustainable materials, materials, so your sogrowing your growing familyfamily can can embrace embrace each magical each magical milestone. milestone.

babymori.com babymori.com | @babymoriuk | @babymoriuk

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embrace embrace every every moment moment

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i-Questâ&#x201E;¢ signature Welcome to a luxurious world of soft, textured, quilted fabrics; aged cognac leatherette touches in all of the most elegant of spaces; and beautifully tailored lines. This signature i-Size multidirection safety seat with added comfort is exquisitely crafted to make memories of each moment with baby last forever.

A SIMPLY TIMELESS CAR SEAT WITH THE LATEST IN SAFETY AND LOADED WITH LEISURE

joiebaby.com/signature Available from all good nursery retailers.

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mam a WELCOME

contents FEBRUARY 2020

66 12

AGENDA What’s On

Arts and entertainment for the month ahead

New Books

February’s best new releases

ESSENTIALS Valentine’s Gift Guide Start dropping hints about these mama and mini presents now

20 Tot Gear

Key kit to make parenting easier

ON THE COVER: @studio_romeo studio-romeo.com Photography CHLOE LAPEYSSONNIE

MAMAHOOD 24 Woman in Work

Izzy Judd on her new book, Mindfulness for Mums

8 26 Insta Mama

Josefine Ekstrand of Leo Leo on taking her family on the road

FASHION 34 You & Me

Romantic outfits for a mama and mini love story

42 Kids Fashion Notes

The best looks and launches for little ones

46 Ready, Set, Play!

Absolutely Mama meets Joanna Welch, founder of Small Stories

WELLNESS 52 Eat Green

Healthy recipes from Melissa Hemsley’s new cookbook

The Mum Mentor Movement

Having some extra girl power at your birth

HOME & INTERIORS 66 Nursery Notes

Beautiful decor and furniture for your little one’s space

68 Nursery Time

Our five favourite nurseries on Instagram right now

RESOURCES 86 Into the Wild

Four ways an outdoor education helps little minds blossom

90 Outer Limits

What to wear for forest school

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Make bathtime

matter Our junior range soothes and hydrates your child’s dry and eczema-prone skin – from their very first bath onwards*. Because we know today’s little moments can become tomorrow’s treasured memories.

Find us in Boots, Asda,

Treatment

Soothing and Moisturising

Daily

Bathing and Cleansing

Oilatum Junior Bath Additive (light liquid paraffin) and Oilatum Junior Cream are medicines for eczema and related dry skin conditions. Always read the label. *Full term babies only.

PEGASUS.indd 1 1127430_T+R_Oilatum_BootsParentingClubAd_AbsolutleyMama_v3_AW.indd 1

Sainsbury’s and all good pharmacies nationwide.

Oilatum.co.uk 14:53 10/01/2020 11:42

mam a WELCOME JOSEFINE EKSTRAND OF LEO LEO P.26

Editor’s

LETTER

STOKKE P.8

STICKY LEMON P.85

’m not one for New Year’s resolutions, but I do believe in fresh starts. With this in mind, this issue is all about looking at life a little bit differently. One mama who knows a lot about this is Josefine Ekstrand, founder of family lifestyle brand Leo Leo. Together with her husband and two young children, she sold her home in Copenhagen (and most of its contents), moved into an old veteran bus and set off an adventure for six months. Find out what happened on page 26. And with the kids back in the classroom, we also explore other alternative forms of education, including forest school. Turn to our Resources section to find out more. Elsewhere in this issue, mama, musician and author Izzy Judd tells us about her new book Mindfulness for Mums; we meet Joanna Welch, founder of playful childrenswear brand Small Stories; and we have three healthy recipes from Melissa Helmsley’s new cookbook, Eat Green. And finally, we’ve got the best gifts for mamas (and their minis) this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy!

C a rly Gl e n di n n i n g

THE LAST TREE P.14

E DITOR

@carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com

Part of the

Mid-weight Designer: REBECCA NOONAN Senior Magazine Manager: ANNA CLARKE

T h e M a g a z i n e Fo r S t y l i s h M u m s @ A B S O L U T E LY M A M A

absolutely-mama .co.uk Editor UK: CARLY GLENDINNING Features Editor: HELEN BARON Social Media Editor: JESSICA SHALTOUT Marketing Manager: LUCIE PEARCE Art Director: PAWEL KUBA Senior Designer: MIKE ROBERTS

Finance Director: JERRIE KOLECI Director: LEAH DAY

LON DON OFFICE : 50 - 52 Whar f Rd, The Angel, London N1 7EU

Managing Director: SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: carly@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please email: anna@zest-media.com For media partnership enquiries please email: lucie@zest-media.com

Absolutely Mama supports

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Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

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10 things we Absolutely

LOV E The products and brands getting our attention this month

Spring Is Calling BOBO CH OSE S One of our favourites for mama and mini matching, we can’t wait to get our hands on the new collection from Bobo Choses. This season doesn’t disappoint, with lots of eco-friendly, easy pieces to choose from. bobochoses.com

HAPPY S MH EVEA ILES

Made from 100% natural rubber, HEVEA’s dummies are plastic-free, non toxic and biodegradable. They are also kind to teeth as they are designed with a clever orthodontic teat. cissywears.com

OUT OF T H I S WO R L D KIDS ON THE MOON The new collection from Polish childrenswear favourite Kids on the Moon is as sweet as ever. With gingham checks and ruffles galore, there’s also lots of perfect pieces for sibling twinning. kidsonthemoon.com

New Flame RLI What to burn now? If you’re longing for summer it has to be Capri Blue from London based candle brand RLI. Inspired by the founder’s fondest travel memories, it’s the perfect muddle of citrusy scents and sea salt. shop-rli.com / le-gent.com

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ma m a LOVE S

HEY DOLL

KIDS CO N C EPT Your littles will love tucking up their teddies in this beautifully crafted doll’s bed from Kids Concept. The clever wheels are not only a fun addition, they make it easier to put away too. scandiborn.com

C O SY L AY E R S

FUB Perfect for layering and lounging, we love this fine knit from FUB. The Danish brand only use OEKO-TEX® certified merino wool and GOTS certified organic cotton in their collections. fub.dk

Hold Me

TAY LO R YAT E S If you’re looking for a ‘forever bag’, look no further than Taylor Yates. Awarded The Butterfly Mark by Positive Luxury, the collection is made in the UK using sustainble leather. tayloryates.com

Miracle Masks N A ZAN SCHN AP P Swiss beauty brand Nazan Schnapp has launched a range of face masks made with wild, natural ingredients and infused with healing crystals. There’s a formula for every skin complaint – from blemishes to tired, dull skin. nazanschnapp.com

or’s Editick P

Dinner Time

STOK K E New from Stokke, the Clikk highchair is super easy to assemble making it perfect for Londoners short on space. We love the simple design, which will fit seamlessly into any kitchen or dining room. stokke.com

N E AT FREAKS

O CTA EVO Minimalist perfection, the ‘catchall’ trays from cool interiors brand Octaevo are inspired by architectural lines. Just what we need to keep our desks tidy right now. octaevo.com

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Everyday travel companion This fully-featured compact stroller is perfect for city living or jet-setting travelers. TRIVâ&#x201E;˘ is cleverly designed with a seat that can face both ways and fold both ways, and can easily convert to a travel system. The ring adapter can even fold with the frame, creating the perfect sidekick to your everyday adventures. For a quick trip to the corner store or getting across town, TRIV is a natural city dweller that packs up quickly with a one-hand fold and stands on its own, keeping your busy hands free. Find out more at nunababy.com

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Scummy Mummies ARTS DEPOT

Following their sell-out UK tour and Edinburgh Fringe debut, the Scummy Mummies are back with a brand new comedy show. Don your catsuit and join Ellie and Helen as they celebrate the scummier side of parenting, from drinking wine at teatime to hiding from the PTA. artsdepot.co.uk

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W H AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S O N

From pirates to polar exploration, February is jam packed with family fun...

W o r d s C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

POP! 9 February Arts Depot

Presented by Tiny Light Theatre, join Ebb and Flo as they embark on a bubbly bath time adventure full of mischeif and music. Little ones will love this gently interactive introduction to theatre. Suitable from ages 0-3. artsdepot.co.uk

we love

Toddler Time Wednesdays during term time â&#x20AC;˘ Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sark is dedicating Wednesday mornings during term time to their youngest vistors. Take your little sailors aboard for songs, stories and playtime. Suitable for ages 4 and under. rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

Ahoy! Gallery Throughout February 2020 The National Maritime Museum

Polar exploration, pirates and other maritime themes are brought to life in this playful and immersive gallery. Stoke the boiler of a steamship, buy and sell fish in the marketplace and make new friends in the interactive boatyard. Suitable for ages 0-7. rmg.co.uk/national-maritime-museum

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agen d a

IMAGINE CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL 12 - 23 February Southbank Centre

The largest festival of its kind in the UK, Imagine is dedicated to families experiencing all kinds of art and culture. Twelve days of the best international performance, music, literature, comedy, creativity, parties, participation and free fun for little ones aged 0-11 and their grown ups.

EVENTS

School’s

OUT

Three for half term

TH E I M AG I NATI O N STATI O N 16 - 21 February V&A

In this multi-dimensional activity inspired by the V&A exhibition Cars: Accelerating The Modern World, little ones will work with Arup engineers to design the future of travel. Free event. vam.ac.uk

southbankcentre.co.uk

THE SKY TONIGHT

Throughout February 2020 The Royal Observatory Greenwich

his live show, presented by a Royal Observatory Astronomer, takes visitors on a tour of the night sky. The journey takes in stars, constellations, planets and moons, and even includes a fly out to the edge of the visible universe. Suitable from age 5+.

WI LD C R AF TS 18 - 21 February Morden Hall Park

This fun workshop aims to get little ones being creative in the great outdoors. Make and take home wildflower seed bombs, and decorate a grass-head pot and fill it with pipe cleaner spring bugs. Booking essential.

rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory

nationaltrust.org

TREASURE CHEST OF STORIES 20 February Polka Theatre

nce upon a time… four magical words that will take you on a journey to the farthest reaches of your imagination. Bring along your treasured toy and join Polka Theatre’s storyteller on a magical adventure.

MARTIAN GAR D E N 17 - 21 February Design Museum

Inspired by the museum’s Moving to Mars exhibition, budding space explorers will collaboratively create a life-size Martian garden and design space food packaging using recycled materials. Suitable for ages 5-11. designmuseum.org

polkatheatre.com

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We love

BOOKS This month’s colourful new releases to enjoy with your little one

Wo r d s Z O Ë D E L M E R- B E S T

TOTALLY BATTY Code Cracking

A L P H A , B R AV O , C H A R L I E By Sara Gillingham

Let your little ones become immersed in the world of maritime communication with this stunning book exploring morse code, the phonetic alphabet and nautical flags. Covering the rare combination of education, humour and imagination, this book packs a nautical punch for any seafaring adventurer. £12.95;  phaidon.com

T H E B AT B O O K By Charlotte Milner

Journey through the upside-down world of bats with this charming book by Charlotte Milner. With bright, bold and beautiful illustrations, The Bat Book hosts a plethora of interesting facts about the furry flying mammals and their importance in the world. £12.99; amazon.co.uk

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BOOKS

PICTURE THIS B I RDS AN D OTH ER AN I MAL S

By Phaidon

Picasso famously once commented that it took “four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child”, but how long would it take a child to learn to paint like Picasso? With this fantastically composed book kids will learn just that, starting with the artist’s famous line drawings. £6.99  phaidon.com

K E E P IT G R E E N THE LAST TREE By Emily Haworth-Booth

Globe Trotter OU R WO R LD

By Shinsuke Yoshitake

Explore the Earth’s amazing geography through rhyming verse and immersive illustration with Our World. Traversing past rivers, lakes and oceans deep, to valleys, hills and mountains steep, this book will take children on an exciting adventure looking at the diverse landscape of our planet. £12.95;  phaidon.com

An allegory of climate change and mankind’s impact on the planet, this book tells a story of destruction, rebirth and hope for the future. Beautifully illustrated and written by Emily HaworthBooth, it will help develop respect and compassion for the beautiful natural world around us. £6.99;  waterstones.com

FLAMING

LOVE

H O W T O L I G H T YO U R D R AG O N By Didier Lévy & Fred Benaglia

This delightful book tells the story of a little boy who desperately tries to relight a dragon’s fi re. After trying everything from tickling the dragon to prodding him and even sticking fake flames on his face, the little boy gives up and pops a kiss on the dragon to show him that he loves him even without the flames - and boom, there’s the fi re. £13;  kidly.co.uk

C ROW D CO NTRO L R A B B I T, R A B B I T R A B B I T ! By Lorna Scobie

Rabbit loves being the only child in the family. But when Rabbit’s parents have some news, and then more news, things start to get awfully crowded at home. This humorous and endearing book will help teach little ones about learning to share with their siblings. £6.99;  scholastic.co.uk Februar y 2020

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Start Your Adventure

Part of the

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family

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That’s a wrap STUDIO ROMEO

Baby carriers can be complicated, which is why we love French brand Studio Romeo’s no-fuss designs. Made from two loops of fabric that cross over the front, just put it on, pop baby in and you’re good to go. studio-romeo.com

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Valentine’s Gifts Carly Glendinning rounds up the perfect presents for mamas and minis

Editor’s Pick

SNUGGLE TIME BINIBAMBA

A great one for new mamas and mamas-to be, this BINIBAMBA Snuggler is made from the softest 100% natural sheepskin and is free from harmful azo dyes. Fits any buggy or car seat. £98; binibamba.com

Coffee Please MAST BROTHERS

Coffee in all guises will be accepted this Valentine’s Day, but especially if it’s in a chocolate bar as delicious as this one from New York brand Mast Brothers. Made with organic ingredients and with very giftable packaging too. £6.50; la-gent.com 18

LIKE A CHARM ILADO

One to give to your mini, these matching Harmony ball bracelets are inspired by an ancestral Mayan pendant and said to provide protection to the wearer. A sweet first Valentine’s idea. £34.35; Ilado-paris.com

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essentials VALENTINES

5 on o u r

WIS HLI STS

FRESH SCENTS MINOIS

Something for mama and baby to enjoy together, we love the natural bathtime products from Parisian brand Minois. The prettiest packaging (and safe for delicate skin) their formulas are made with natural and organic ingredients. minoisparis.fr

PRINTS PERFECT

CHIARA PERANO -SOTNYK

We’ll be dropping more than a few hints about this beautiful print from illustrator Chiara PeranoSotnyk this Valentine’s Day. Much more original than flowers and chocolates. From £40; ciao-chiara.com

Dream On

YOLKE

You can’t go wrong with a new pair of pyjamas and few are prettier than this pair from Yolke. Shame we can’t gift a guaranteed good night’s sleep along with them. £120; yolke.co.uk

2 3 4

1. Saint Rita Parlor, Signature Fragrance, £75; cissywears.com 2. Eym, Home Candle, £39; eymnaturals.com 3. &Daughter, Wool Sweater, £295; net-a-porter.com 4. Catbird, Locket, £270; net-a-porter.com 5. Six, Florence Nursing Crop Top, £65 and Florence Knickers, £35; six-studio.com

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e s s ent i al s

TOT GEAR

ent parroved app

SMART STROLLING M A M A S & PA PA S

The baby and maternity retailer is updating their best-selling allterrain pushchair, the Ocarro, for 2020. There’s a design to speak to every taste, with a range of bold new fabrics. mamasandpapas.com

TOT GEAR

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

CARRY ALL M A M A S & PA PA S

Mamas & Papas have launched four new signature colours in this stylish and practical changing bag. It coordinates with most of their pushchairs and most importantly has plenty of room for all of your mama essentials. mamasandpapas.com

O N TH E M OVE JUNIOR JONES

The stylish J-TOURER travel stroller from Junior Jones can be configured upright or lie flat, is easy to manoeuver and can be collapsed with one hand. It’s so compact that it also fits in the overhead storage on most airlines. £299; juniorjones.com

WELCOME TO THE WORLD

Wicker Moses Basket Reviewed by Mamas & Papas Parent Approved Panellist Kelly Sibley @kelsib88

aving somewhere safe and secure to put our newborn whilst downstairs was so important but we really wanted something stylish to fit in with our home. We were lucky enough to be gifted the Mamas & Papas Welcome to the World Wicker Moses Basket with the rocking stand in Natural. First things first... this is no IKEA flat pack! The basket comes already made up and the stand took us no more than 10 minutes to build. The frame is shaped to give maximum support to the basket, so you can relax knowing your baby is safe and well. The basket itself comes with the mattress included, which is always fab. It’s lovely and firm for baby to lay on but the material is soft with a 50/50 cotton and linen covering. The leather handles give you an easy way to carry the basket from room to room whilst baby sleeps. All in all, I would happily give the Welcome to the World Wicker Moses Basket and rocking stand a solid 10 out of 10. It’s functional, practical and stylish, what more could you ask for! Moses Basket £99; Stand £49; mamasandpapas.com

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Mama Cool IN THIS SECTION

This month, we meet the mamas stepping out of their comfort zones. Josefine Ekstrand explains why she sold her home to take her family on the road; and Izzy Judd tells us how she overcame anxiety with clever coping strategies. Enjoy!

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woman in

WORK Musician, author and mama-of-two Izzy Judd on her new book Mindfulness for Mums

I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

Q Tell us about Mindfulness for Mums. What’s it all about? A Mindfulness for Mums offers a collection of simple exercises to help restore calm in the chaos of motherhood. It is the type of book you can have on your bedside table to dip in and out of and includes activities not only for you, but also to share with your family. Mindfulness doesn’t require hours of your time, but I have found practising for a short amount of time each day can improve your overall mood and helps to ease tension and worries. Q Has becoming a mother changed your relationship with anxiety do you think? A As we struggled to start a family I hadn’t given enough thought to the reality of becoming a mum. Anxiety has always

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mamah o o d

“I knew I needed something to help me restore balance and calm”

we are becoming much more aware of and understanding that these are important when taking care of our mental health. For example, having times in the day to turn off notifications until we have the time to respond to messages and emails with our full attention. I know that endless beeps on my phone are such a distraction from the moment I’m sharing with my family and can be anxiety fuelling. been enhanced in my life during periods of change or feeling out of control and there has been no bigger change than the impact of motherhood! I felt totally overwhelmed becoming a mum, it felt like I had been thrown in the deep end and didn’t know how to swim. I knew I needed something to help me restore balance and calm so that I could be present and enjoy time with my family and manage the rollercoaster of emotions that I was experiencing day and night. I stopped practicing mindfulness when Lola was born as I didn’t think I had time, when I realised I could find short moments of time within my day and the impact those moments were having on my overall well-being, I wanted to share my experiences with others in the hope it might help them too. Q What are your thoughts on social media and how it affects the mental health of mums? A Social media can be such a positive space if you curate a social feed that speaks positively to you and leaves you feeling uplifted. There have been many wonderful and supportive communities that I have found great comfort from in motherhood and also during our fertility struggles. In Mindfulness for Mums I have written about screen boundaries and healthy screen time, something I think

Q What are your go-to coping strategies if you’re having a tough day? A Mindfulness is simply focusing on the present moment, something as a mum I struggle with, especially with the daily demands and expectations that being a mum brings. I wanted to find ways to keep the calm rather than join their chaos. One of my coping strategies has been to take a mindful pause. This could be when your feet touch the ground in the morning, waiting for the kettle to boil or as you turn the door handle to leave the house. You simply breathe in for 4, hold for 2 and breathe out for 4. You could add an affi rmation such as “let go” or anything that feels right for you. Taking a moment to pause and check in with our breath allows us to ground ourselves and bring our focus to the moment when our heads might be spinning with the endless to do lists or from the noise of toddler meltdowns! Q Is mindfulness something you can practice as a family to prevent meltdowns and tantrums? A I wanted to learn mindfulness techniques to share with Lola and Kit to take care of their own mental well-being. I am practicing everyday to try and remain patient and understand their big emotions. Using breathing techniques together can

INTERVIEW

help us share a peaceful moment and also distracts their attention from a difficult situation such as having to share! We also have a mindfulness corner in our house, this is a quiet space they can go to which has a cosy blanket to sit on and a basket of items such as puzzles, colouring and a cuddly toy. I have found this gives me another option to the naughty step and Lola usually responds really well to some quiet time to calm down. Q Finally, what advice would you give to mums who feel like they are failing? A You are not alone, there isn’t a night I don’t get into bed and question if I did ok as a mum today. The juggle and business of motherhood is relentless, so I hope these short exercises allow you pockets of time in the day to take care of you. Something else to think about is if there is something you enjoyed before becoming a mum that you loved doing just for you? For me that was playing my violin, something I stopped doing until recently. Reconnecting with something you love can really help you find you again.

Mindfulness for Mums by Izzy Judd (£14.99, Michael Joseph / Penguin) is out now @mrs_izzyjudd Februar y 2020

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“We were looking to find a way of being together as a family with hopes of adventures in sight”

INSTA MAMA

Josefine Ekstrand, founder of family lifestyle brand Leo Leo leoleo.dk • @leoleojournal • @leoleocopenhagen

Q What made you want to sell your apartment to set off on a family adventure? A It was about finding a way to construct our everyday life with a degree of freedom and ability to own our time each day, not least the time together with our children. It became a question of financial opportunities, raising capital for our business and to dare to look at life with new eyes. Was owning an apartment in the city, working two jobs to pay rent, bills and besides working on the dream of starting our own business, really the best way for us to live? We were looking to find a way of being together as a family with hopes of adventures in sight, seeing the world, and to give as much knowledge to our kids as possible through travelling. Those were some of the thoughts that ultimately made us walk the line. We met an old couple one day, sitting in front of an old auto camper, sharing a bottle of wine near the beach, watching the sun go down. Emil started talking to them and for the following two weeks he was at the computer non-stop searching for a home on wheels. Meeting them was such a fresh awakening. They’ve travelled the world with all of their kids and for us this was truly the answer we’d been searching for. When deciding to move into an old veteran bus, we of course had to get rid of so much stuff, just to be able to live as four people on 12 square meters. But it all started a couple of years ago when we decided to clean up and clean out. It’s overwhelming to see how all of that stuff was slowing us down and making it impossible for us to see a way out of a daily pattern. Releasing ourselves from a lot of insignificant things and clothes gave us freedom of mind and a renewed energy to throw ourselves into dreams and adventures that mattered to us. So we bought a veteran bus from 1963, a Scania Vabis from Sweden.

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mama h ood Q & A

Q What was it like living in a camper van? A The overall idea was to be able to create a safe space for our two children. A place for them to feel secure and have as close to a ‘normal’ kids room as possible. We knew we wanted to dedicate a lot of room for that particular matter, so we built a room in the back of the bus, with lots of storage under their beds for toys, clothes and so forth. We took away the things we knew didn’t have to be a stationary setting. Having a portable toilet, oven and stove allowed us to use our kitchen in many other ways. The kitchen could be used for creative projects, whilst all the cooking could easily be done outside. In terms of space, we built a sofa that could be pulled out to become a bed, a desk that worked as a storage place and window sill. It was all about finding those epic solutions, where the objects can transform and have several functions. To us, the building and the development of different

design solutions was just the most fun! After living on a bus for a while, letting go of so many belongings, we’ve realised that a great family home should be a place with room, primarily room in the heart. Living in a bus with small children seems to challenge everything! So most of the time it was mostly just about surviving and making sure some kind of dinner was served. Funnily enough that hasn’t seemed to have changed much even though we’re now living in a 100sqm house. There’s ultimately just more rooms to clean. Q What were the biggest changes you saw in your children after you set off? A Our children have been with us the whole time, helping to build the bus, going through toys, deciding what to keep and give away. No doubt it has been a learning process, but also very challenging. Our girl Hilma was fortunately still too little to really understand what was going on, but our son had to face some challenges. This hasn’t been a ‘joy-ride’. The bond between the two of them is special. When we go out among strangers, they seem really confident and positive. Our son is high on energy and sometimes a lot to handle, but when it comes to his

sister it’s nothing but love and respect. Ultimately I hope we take this part of our lives with us, building a close and trusting relationship with our kids and working on a strong bond between them as brother and sister. Our children really know what we’re doing and what we’re working on. It includes ups and downs, but that is a life lesson. Everything comes down to the person who’s willing to get up again and move forward. Our son, who is four years old, enjoys packing Leo Leo orders and putting on labels for different places in the world. He’s also working on his own swimwear collection and he’s positive that he can build or create anything he puts his mind to. Q Tell us about Leo Leo. Was it difficult running a business on the move? A As a real fashionista, I suddenly got hit by the baby train and a parallel universe opened up before my eyes. Before the name Leo Leo, I was sewing all the products myself, but the demand increased and we decided to get it in production. We have outsourced shipping, so the business has been able to pretty much continue as usual. It’s all about having Februar y 2020

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mama h ood Q & A

a seriously strong WiFi connection, no dead batteries and lots of sun to charge up our solar power! Living on the road has been quite the challenge, not only in terms of finding good places to park our 12 meter long bus, but also because running a business requires focus. Which can be hard, when the office is located in the kitchen, living room and bedroom. We travelled from Copenhagen, drove through the Pyrenees mountains, took it on the ferry to Mallorca (surviving the heatwave) up hills on the highway with eight big trucks behind us, forced to drive 20km per hour. We still made it, all the way to Portugal in one piece. When driving a veteran bus, you never really know what the day will bring you. To get this far and being where we are today, calling Portugal ‘home’, is quite an accomplishment in our lives. After living for 6 months by the motto ‘home is where you park it’, we’re now in a house, with a permanent address in Portugal, the Algarve, with an ocean view and sunshine every day. We’ve moved a lot in the last year and it’s been good for the soul, but hard on the business. I love to work at home, close to the family, but I must admit, having the space for a office was really missed! Ironically, our office is now in the living room of our house, where the kids play.

through Instagram you realise people are living on buses, in treehouses, boats, teepees and all kinds of ways. It made the choice a little ‘easier’, knowing that living on a bus in some countries is totally normal. Instagram, I guess, can inspire in many ways. For me, it’s ultimately the most amazing place to indulge in creativity, photos, art, DIY, homeschooling, Waldorf toys and just about anything regarding fashion. It’s also a way to share our journey, even though there may be a lot of negative aspects of the platform, filtered images and ‘pretty’ lives. I choose to see it and use it for what I like about it. Q And finally, best and worst things about travelling as a family… A Emil and I decided, back in our home in Copenhagen, in our self-built kitchen, in the cool area of Nørrebro, that we wanted to try to live in different ways. We agreed on saying “yes” to each other and whatever idea we might feel was important to be lived. To us, the travelling is about living! It doesn’t matter if things don’t work out as planned, because it turns out they rarely do. We want to go out and find answers and

“We want to go out and find answers and stop living like we already have them”

stop living like we already have them. The hard part is to be full-time parents, starting a business and living in a new country where you don’t speak or understand the language. Life is full of opportunities, so we try not to sweat the small stuff and in our house we never talk about “it’s not possible”, we only talk about “how can we do it”. On this journey we’ve already grown so much together. I hope the experiences we’ve had with our children in their early years will become a positive foundation for our future relationship. I love being a mother and I really enjoy our chaotic life with kids.

Q How important is Instagram to Leo Leo? And what do you like and dislike about the platform? A Instagram is very important, not only in terms of our business, but also personally. I honestly think that the platform invites us in, to see how people are living so many different lives, all over the world. Coming from a small country like Denmark, where we kinda lead very similar lifestyles, looking Februar y 2020

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YO U N G S O L E S . LO N D O N

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R O M A N T I C O U T F I T S F O R M A M A S A N D M I N I S F R O M LO U I S E M I S H A p . 3 4 A B S O LU T E LY M A M A M E E T S J OA N N A W E LC H , F O U N D E R O F S M A L L S TO R I E S p .4 6

Cool Kids PLAYGROUND

A new brand on the scene for little ones and grown ups, Playground has a cool, streetwear vibe inspired by its East London roots. All of the products are made from organic cotton and recycled polyester â&#x20AC;&#x201C; materials that are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. ourplayground.co.uk

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ST Y L E NOTES

The month’s best styles, collaborations and collections

CARRY ME KERIKIT

Stylish changing bag brand KeriKit has just launched a new limited edition version of their popular Amber backpack. The luxe mock-croc finish definitely doesn’t say ‘mum bag’.

we love

kerikit.com

TREAD L I G H T LY M AT T & N AT

The vegan food revolution might be taking flight, but it’s always been a bit trickier to find stylish non-leather accessories. One of the brands doing it best is Matt & Nat, who not only don’t use any animal-based fabrics in their shoes and bags, but also incorporate eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastic bottles. mattandnat.com

Bump Style S TA L F

With loose shapes, loungewear brand Stalf has long been on our radar as a non-maternity brand that works for pregnancy. Now they have put together an edit of their best pieces to see you through the nine months and beyond. stalf.co.uk

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fash i on

Bright Sparks

MAMA

nd Bra us Foc

KLOTO

Inspired by electricity, Kloto’s new jewellery collection cleverly combines conductive metals with gemstones including Aventurine, Amethyst and Onyx. We love the clean minimal lines and industrial feel. klotodesign.com

BBHUGME The Norweigan creators of the popular pregnancy pillow launch their latest innovation

FOREVER KNITS

ARELA

All too often knitwear doesn’t wash well. On a mission to make sure their sustainablymade cashmere lasts a lifetime, Arela provide a care service so that you’ll never have to worry about bobbles again. arelastudio.com

5 of t he b e st NEW AC C E S S ORI E S COS Recycled Glass Hair Pin, £17; cosstores.com

STELLA MCCARTNEY Sandals, £515; net-a-porter.com

A WEATHERED PENNY Earrings, £17; aweatheredpenny.com

COS Green Leather Bag £115; cosstores.com

ILLESTEVA Eldridge Sunglasses, £225; net-a-porter.com

eveloped by three female chiropractors from Norway who wanted to help sleep-deprived mums, the bbhugme pregnancy pillow has been one of the most successful products for mamas-to-be in recent years. And now the brand are launching their latest innovation, a 2-in-1 maternity support belt. Bellybandmeets-pelvic support belt, the innovative design stabilises and supports the lower back, keeping the core muscles activated. Super important, as an inactive core isn’t good for anyone, and especially not when you’re pregnant. Much like their pregnancy pillow, it’s been designed to not only be functional, but stylish too. Made from high-tech sportswear fabric, it comes in three shades – black, dusky pink and plum. So you won’t mind it peeping out under a tee, especially when you reach peak-bump. But the best thing? It’s supercomfortable and can be worn for long periods of time to help you move around more easily. We’re thinking: standing on the tube, doing the weekly shop, and lifting a toddler twenty times a day. This could be a lifesaver. bbhugme.com

Februar y 2020

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you &m e

Romantic outfits for a mama and mini love story l o u i s e m i s h a .c o m

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kid s

FA S H I O N NOTES Carly Glendinning rounds up the month’s best styles, looks and launches

SUMMER DREAMING

we love

P I Ñ ATA P U M

Hands up if you’re already planning a summer escape? Definitely coming in our suitcases is the super-sweet collection from Spanish brand Piñata Pum. Look out for carefree co-ords and cute details galore. pinatapum.com

SWEET SPOT ORGANIC ZOO

One of our favourites for easy everyday pieces made from organic cotton. The new collection from the Brightonbased brand is full of perfect prints, ready for spring. organic-zoo.com

Knits to Know FUB

Danish brand FUB’s knits keep little ones warm in winter and cool in summer too. Layer up the pieces from their new collection now before spring arrives. fub.dk

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fa s h i on

All Together

KIDS

nd Bra us Foc

HOUSE OF MINIMUS

Unisex, play-ready and timeless, we couldn’t love the super-cool boilersuits from House of Minimus more. Better still, they are available in both mama and mini sizes. houseofminimus.com

POP MY WAY A clever new eco-friendly brand for little ones

LOV E HEARTS

MERI MERI

For perfect Valentine’s dress up, look no further than Meri Meri. They have everything little loves could need – from glittery heart bags to tutus. merimeri.co.uk

5 of t he b e st P E AC E & L OVE MERI MERI Heart Hair Slides, £9; merimeri.co.uk

THE ANIMALS OBSERVATORY Peace Sweatshirt, £67; smallable.com

WANDER & WONDER Tie Dress, €60; wander-n-wonder.com

tricky pregnancy and birth with her daughter made Sashe Christopher start thinking about how to make the early days with a little one easier. If you’ve ever struggled to do up sleepsuit poppers after a night feed or lost a sock on the way to the park, you’ll appreciate her clever new babywear collection, Pop My Way. With a background in fashion, Sashe worked as a buyer for luxury brands including Burberry before launching the brand. Her expertise is apparent in the thoughtfully designed collection, which aims to make getting a baby dressed as simple as possible and ensure accessories stay firmly attached. We love how the babygrows have no-fuss zips, and bibs, collars and dummies can be snapped on and off easily and safely. All the pieces in the range are also interchangeable and in a soft, gender-neutral colour palette. Importantly, Sashe has also put a huge focus on sustainability. Each piece is made from 100% GOTS certified organic pima cotton, which is kind to the environment and safe for little ones’ delicate skin. A new favourite to add to our list. popmyway.co.uk

MIMI & LULA Heart Bag, £14; mimiandlula.com

YOUNG SOLES Rosie T Bar Shoes, from £71; youngsoles.london

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fa s h i on SKI

ALEXANDALEXA Ski range; alexandalexa.com

On the

Slopes

The best kit for keeping them warm and cosy in the snow

SMALLS Merino knits; smallsmerino.co.uk

ACNE STUDIOS Beanie, £53; smallable.com

ALEXANDALEXA Silver Moon Boot, £83; alexandalexa.com

SIRCH Traditional Sledge, £40; smallable.com NET-A-PORTER Ski range; net-a-porter.com

IZIPIZI Junior Ski Mask, £41; smallable.com

REIMA Babies’ Down Suit, €119.95; reima.com

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Rea dy, Set ,Play! Absolutely Mama meets Joanna Welch, founder of playful childrenswear brand Small Stories I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

Q What made you decide to set up a kids clothing label? A I have a background in fashion and a love of

design, so naturally as a new mum, I looked forward to a whole new world of children’s clothing to explore. But I found myself struggling to find cool, unique, modern clothes that were also functional and of high quality, without the designer price tags. I could find lots of cool Scandi kids brands but hardly any British brands so this spurred me on even more to start my own childrenswear brand. So, I left my job of 16 years as a London fashion buyer to create my own label for all those other mums like me, who are looking for something a bit different and want to be the envy of other parents wanting to know what brand their child is wearing. Q How did your own motherhood journey play a part in the decision to launch the business? A Becoming a mum to my son Jack really

played a massive role in spurring me on to 46

start my own business for so many reasons. Like I said earlier I found it extremely hard to find unique, cool, fashionable printed kidswear which was British and even more so for boys too. I also found it difficult to find easy everyday wear such as tracksuits that were super comfortable and practical for my son to wear in cool prints that stood out, felt soft, were long-wearing and washed well. I continually bought from Scandi brands so while on maternity leave I did extensive research and decided there was a gap in the UK children’s market and that’s where Small Stories started. I also knew going back to my buyer’s role at Kurt Geiger London meant I wouldn’t be around or see much of my son as it’s a very demanding job and not 9 ‘til 5. So I decided if there was ever a moment to start my own brand then now was the time to really give it go. Although starting your own brand is a 24/7 job, you never stop and never feel you’re doing enough but at least I have the flexibility to be there for my son too.

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fash io n INTERVIEW

JOANNA WELCH AND HER SON JACK

Q Where do you get the inspiration for each collection? A Each season we loosely come up with a

theme that the prints are based around and it’s always something that not just resonates with children but adults too. A lot of our prints I want the adults to love and want to wear too – not just the kids. The first season the collection was based around the sea and all its surrounding wonders. Last season it was the woodland and this season the collection is inspired by the inner artist within us. Q How important is sustainability to the business? A The future is sustainability and brands

need to pay attention to it if they want to succeed and have longevity. Customers are changing their shopping habits due to their concerns about our country’s carbon footprint. Consumers want to buy from brands that do not waste, recycle and are sustainable. At Small Stories we try to limit the amount of packaging we use and make sure it is reusable. All our fabrics are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 which are the softest and safest materials for your child’s skin and contain no chemicals. One of the lifestyle boutiques where our collection is stocked in Peckham has even stopped printing receipts to save paper and will

“The collection is inspired by the inner artist in all of us” only email receipts to customers now. All these little initiatives show to consumers that you are taking sustainability seriously and want to help the environment. Q One thing that people don’t often know about Small Stories? A All our prints are hand painted by British

artists and then printed onto the fabric so they are totally bespoke and unique to us. If you look at a lot of the prints up-close you can actually see the brush stroke marks. Q What have you learned since setting up the brand? And is there anything you would do differently? A I have learnt so many lessons and I have

made so many mistakes along the way. Starting your own brand is very much a

learning curve and will continue to be. I don’t think I quite realised the power of social media when I first started and how important and brilliant Instagram is for a small new businesses. It is a free platform that enables me to promote my brand and allows me to really connect with my target audience through my Stories – showing me as the face behind the brand and getting my audience’s feedback and opinions on styles and colours. Also being able to load images that are shoppable make it so easy for my customers to buy through one click and you are taken straight to the website to the style to buy it. I would say between 60% and 70% of my sales right now come from social media. Q What does your son think of Small Stories? Does he happily wear your pieces? A Jack is only three so I still don’t think he

quite understands that all of the clothes he wears are designed and made by his Mummy. He is always a model in every ad campaign we do and he loves that, well I hope he does, ha?! He is also my number one model showcasing Small Stories on a daily basis and nothing makes me more excited and proud than when people come up to me in the supermarket or in the street and ask where Jack’s outfit is from. He is always head to toe in Small Stories!

smallstories.co.uk @smallstories_uk Februar y 2020

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T H R E E R EC I P E S F R O M M E LI S SA H E M S LE Y ’ S N E W CO O K B O O K p . 5 2 T H E M U M M E N TO R M OV E M E N T: E X T R A S U P P O R T D U R I N G L A B O U R p .6 1

Sleek Sportswear NET-A- PORTER

Fashion meets fitness in NET-APORTER’s new season sportswear edit. Styles from WONE and Heroine Sport are perfect for high-impact training, whilst comfortable shapes from NAGNATA and Ernest Leoty tick all the boxes for yoga and dance. net-a-porter.com

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Time for the kids, time for you, time together

Family skiing made easy With exceptional childcare in all our family friendly resorts and great deals for families with babies and toddlers, you can save money, enjoy your time on the slopes and introduce your kids to the snow. FOLLOW US

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HEALTH

MAMA WORK OUT PHYSIQUE

Physique’s Mother & Baby Barre Class gives you the opportunity to work out without having to leave your little one behind. The babies enjoy listening to the music (and often drift off to sleep) whilst you enjoy a full body workout class in a safe but challenging way. Suitable after your 6-8 weeks postnatal check-up. physique-studio.co.uk

mama’s

WELLNESS NOTES Mama and mini fitness classes and parent nutrition

AND RELAX INNER SENSES

The Maternity, Baby and Child collection from multi award-winning wellbeing brand Inner Senses is gentle enough to be used throughout pregnancy and on little ones’ delicate skin. Every handcrafted product is 100% natural, over 96% organic, sustainable, cruelty-free, vegan friendly and free from synthetic ingriedients. innersenses.co.uk

Mama meals & B R E AT H E PA R E N T F O O D

A new nutrition box for parents that aims to provide complete nutrition for two people in the chaos of newborn days or working parent life. Food is prepared in small batches, frozen and sent via next day delivery in recycled and compostable packaging. andbreathewellbeing.com

S N AC K & G O ORGANIX

Baked and not fried, the new Melty Veggie Sticks from Organix have no added salt, no artificial colours and are made with organic ingredients. Suitable from 7 months – making them the perfect baby finger food. organix.com

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FRIDGERAID FRITTATA Feeds 4, takes 20 mins

he beauty of a frittata is that anything goes – really, it does! In this case, broccoli is the star, but let whatever is in your fridge take the lead. Always aim for some green as it’s often the green veg that most of us could do with more of. Not only is a vegetable frittata an easy and delicious way to start your day, but in this case you eat the whole broccoli in all its glory – stems and stalks – and, even better, everything happens in the same pan. If you’ve got cooked broccoli ready to go, then skip step 1 and save time. And if you know you’ll be rushing out the door a lot this week, bake it in a 12-hole muffin tray at fan 170°C/Gas mark 5 for 10–15 minutes for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack.

INGREDIENTS

E AT

Green

Three healthy and nourishing recipes to try from Melissa Hemsley’s new cookbook

• 1 large head of broccoli, florets evenly chopped and stem finely chopped • 1 small onion, thinly sliced • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced • 2 tbsp butter • 10 eggs • 2 large handfuls of grated cheese (I use mature Cheddar or you could use crumbled feta or goat’s cheese) • Sea salt and black pepper OPTIONAL EXTRAS • A handful of chopped fresh basil, parsley, chives or celery leaves • Chilli flakes, to taste • 2 handfuls of wild garlic, chopped (when in season)

DIRECTIONS 1 Grab a medium-sized, deep-sided frying pan and steam the broccoli for 3 minutes in about 4 tablespoons of water, lid on, until almost tender and just turned bright green. Drain any excess liquid (though the broccoli will probably absorb it all) and set the broccoli aside.

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RECIPE S

2 Pop the pan back on the heat and gently fry the red onion rings and garlic in the butter for a few minutes. 3 Meanwhile, whisk the eggs together in a bowl, add salt, pepper and the cheese, plus any of the herbs, chilli flakes or wild garlic, if using. 4 Preheat the grill to high. Add the broccoli back to the pan to coat in the garlic butter, then pour in the egg mix, stirring so that the broccoli and onions are distributed evenly. Let the bottom and sides cook and start to set over a medium heat for about 5 minutes. 5 Pop the frittata under the grill for a further 5 minutes until golden on top and just cooked through (give the pan a wobble to check), then slide it onto a chopping board or plate. Cool for 10 minutes and slice up into quarters.

WA S T E N O T This is divine with cauliflower too and tastes a bit like cauliflower cheese. The day I handed in this book, I made a celebratory clear-out-thefridge frittata with 2 big handfuls of chopped mushrooms, shredded cabbage, 1 tablespoon of leftover cream, ¼ onion and a big pinch of fresh thyme leaves. It was delicious and too good to not share with you here.

TAHINI CHOC CHIP COOKIES Makes 16 cookies, takes 25 mins

he vegan version of these are just as delicious, none of us can decide which we love the most. Store these cakey cookies in an airtight container for 5 days. You could warm them briefly in the oven to give them a little crispening boost. The dough freezes well so double up and save half for a rainy day. Just defrost, then slice into portions before putting in the oven.

INGREDIENTS • 2 eggs • 2 tsp baking powder

• 4 tbsp maple syrup • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 150g light tahini • 110g smooth nut butter • 100g good-quality dark chocolate, broken up into squares, or chips • 30g black and/or white sesame seeds • A pinch of sea salt

DIRECTIONS 1 Preheat the oven to fan 170°C/gas mark 5. Line a large baking tray with reusable baking paper. 2 In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs then mix in the baking powder, maple syrup and vanilla extract. 3 Add the tahini and nut butter and mix together until very well combined. 4 Roughly chop

the chocolate (if not using chips) and fold through the batter along with the sesame seeds. 5 Measure out 16 balls of the cookie batter, roughly 1 tablespoon each, and bake for 10–15 minutes on the lined baking tray (making sure to leave a little room between each one) until the cookies are just set. 6 Remove from the oven, sprinkle with a little sea salt and allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

F L E X I S WA P For vegans, replace the 2 eggs with 1 large mashed ripe banana. You can also swap the nut butter for the same amount of a seed butter or tahini for a nut-free alternative. Februar y 2020

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TIP If you have vegetable stock, use it instead of hot water for extra flavour

PARSNIP DAHL topped with roasted parsnips and pink pickled onions Feeds 6, takes 40mins

his is ideal to make at the end of the weekend with any leftover root veg that didn’t make it into the Sunday roast.

INGREDIENTS • 4 tbsp ghee or oil • 5 large parsnips (about 900g) • 1 tbsp maple syrup • 2 large onions, thinly sliced • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 thumb of ginger, finely grated • 400g split red lentils, rinsed • 2 large handfuls of fresh coriander, leaves and stems finely chopped separately • 3 tbsp tomato purée • 1 × 400ml tin of full-fat coconut milk • 200g leafy greens, like chard, leaves and stems finely chopped • Yoghurt, to serve (optional)

SPICE MIX • 1 1/2 tsp ground turmeric • 2 tbsp ground cumin or 11/2 tbsp cumin seeds, roughly ground • 2 tbsp ground coriander or 1 1/2 tbsp coriander seeds • 2 tbsp black mustard seeds, roughly ground • A pinch of chilli flakes or chilli powder • A big pinch of sea salt and black pepper

RECIPE S

crispy at the edges. 4 In a large pan, fry the onion in the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee over a medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occassionally, while you get on with everything else. 5 Add the remaining half of the spice mix, plus the garlic and ginger and fry for 3 minutes. 6 Add the diced parsnips and lentils, the chopped coriander stems and the tomato purée and let fry. 7 After a minute, add the coconut milk, then fi ll up the tin four times with hot water (1.6 litres) and pour in, stirring well. Pop the lid on, bring to the boil and immediately turn down to a medium heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. Stir a few times throughout to make sure the lentils don’t stick. Add more liquid if you think it needs it or if you like your dahl soupier, like I do. 8 Meanwhile, scrunch and massage the red onion in a bowl with the lime juice, salt and maple syrup, if using, for 30 seconds, then leave to bathe in the salty lime juice. 9 Once the lentils and parsnips in the pan are cooked, add the chopped greens, pop the lid on so they steam for 3–5 minutes until just tender, then taste for seasoning. 10 Serve up each bowl, topped with the roasted parsnips, coriander leaves, pink pickled onions and their juices and a dollop of yoghurt, if you like.

WA S T E N O T Swap the parsnips for carrots, sweet potato, squash or cauliflower and you can use kale or spinach in place of the chard.

PINK PICKLED ONIONS • 2 large red onions, thinly sliced • Juice of 2 limes or 4 tbsp vinegar • A big pinch of sea salt • 2 tsp maple syrup (optional)

DIRECTIONS 1 Preheat the oven to fan 220°C/Gas mark 9 and melt 2 tablespoons of the ghee or oil on a large baking tray in the oven. 2 Meanwhile, mix the spice mix in a small bowl and slice up three of the parsnips into about 18 wedges, say 5cm × 1.5cm, then toss the parsnip wedges in the oil on the tray with half of the spice mix. 3 Pop in the oven for about 30–35 minutes, tossing halfway through with the maple syrup, until golden and going

E AT G R E E N Eat Green by Melissa Hemsley (Ebury Press) £22 hbk. Photography by Philippa Langley; hemsleyandhemsley.com

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mama’s

B E AU T Y NOTES Hair, make-up and beauty news for the month ahead

FRESH FAC E D KJAER WEIS

we love

Free from baddies that clog-up pores, the Certified Natural and Certified Organic ingredients used in the make up range from Kjaer Weis work with the skin, not against it. One of our favourites for creating a natural look. kjaerweis.com

SKIN S AV I O U R LOTIL

A miracle worker on dry and eczema or psoriasis-prone skin, we like to keep a handy tube of Lotil on us at all times in chilly weather. With antibacterial and antiseptic properties and it’s also free from parabens. £3.25; weldricks.co.uk

All Natural A CONSCIOUS EDIT

Not just a pretty bottle to add to the shelf, the bath oil from A Conscious Edit is vegan, organic and doesn’t contain any nasty chemicals. The relaxing blend of ethical essential oils also has soothing, anti inflammatory properties. £34; just.maison

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wellnes s

BEAUT Y

n Salo w e i Rev

About Time ALCHEMY OILS

Our new secret weapon for achieving glossy locks, Alchemy Oils’ plant-based formulas are naturally rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. We love the idea of making time for a little hair ritual with one of their clever hourglasses as well. £28; alchemyoils.co.uk

WATE R H O U S E YO U N G

Wo r d s H E L E N BA RO N

DRIFT OFF AURELIA

We’re big believers in a bedtime skincare routine to help you get a better night’s sleep (no accounting for babies with other ideas!). This overnight intensive treatment from Aurelia is a firm favourite in our line up – combining oils to both calm and hydrate. £38; aureliaskincare.com

5 of t he b e st HA I R CA RE JOHN MASTERS ORGANICS, HAIR MASK £29; johnmastersorganics.co.uk

RAHUA, CLASSIC SHAMPOO €36; rahua.com

ATELIER FEKKAI, THE PURE MIST £23; urbanretreat.com

HAIRSTORY, NEW WASH £44; hairstory.com

he hydrafacial is about achieving a healthy complexion in the face of growing exposure to environmental contaminants, make-up and inefficient removal techniques. This professional-grade cleanse is a six-step treatment that ‘de-gunks’ the skin of blackheads, sebum, bacterial colonisers, silicone residue, zinc oxide – and even skin mites! It also acts as an antiageing treatment, encouraging cell turnover. Unlike standard peels or facials, the resurfacing procedure – (a gentler but effective type of microdermabrasion) – hydrates the skin as it renews it. In fact, the soothing procedure causes less skin inflammation (a catalyst in skin ageing). Water is used to remove impurities while the new skin is bathed with hydrating, antioxidant serums. An LED light can then be used to encourage circulation, reduce redness and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin – which can combat hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and acne. I love the feeling of potency you get with a medical facial. Results can be maintained every 2-4 weeks, and the clinic offers skin analysis too – so you can measure firmness. HydraFacial from £230; waterhouseyoung.com

BRIOGEO, SCALP REVIVAL £40.99; briogeohair.com

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Niki Rein, founder of Barrecore, on exercising during pregnancy and post-birth

B U M P F I T

Q Has motherhood changed your relationship to exercise? A Being a mother has changed a lot of things in my life, as you can imagine, and exercise is definitely one of them. I have always been active from an early age and have had the luxury to workout whenever I wanted to for however long I wanted to. Since our daughter’s birth that has changed dramatically! I completely underestimated the flexibility and autonomy of the ‘me time’ I had before becoming a parent. I used to train 6 days a week often right upon waking, taking the time I wanted. That number has now come to as low as twice a week and can be as short as 30 minutes depending on when I can squeeze it in. When, at first, this seemed like a huge compromise, I learned to maximise my workouts more than ever and my body has actually felt better for it. I probably leaned more towards exercise addiction in my life before parenthood so this has created a very healthy and surprising balance that I didn’t even realise I had needed. Barrecore is my sole form of exercise due to it’s incredibly efficient and effective nature but I now find that I am more mentally connected during workouts to ensure no moment is wasted which has, no doubt, increased my results. Now that I am currently 7 months pregnant with our second, my workouts and exercise mentality have shifted once again. With this pregnancy, I have different niggles than I did with the first and I am FAR more tired (with a wild toddler running around) so I am taking a more nurturing approach this time. I do my best not to push myself too much and changed my mindset to use each workout more as an endorphin and tension release as well as maintaining my strength. Q What made you want to launch BarrePRENATAL? And what can mamas expect if they come to a class? A BarrePRENATAL was created to encourage prenatal women that pregnancy is not a disability and that it’s okay to move their body and experience intense exercises in a safe and positive way for the growing bump. Classes are formatted in a way that not only educate on the importance of staying strong through pregnancy, so labour is hopefully smoother and recovery can be incredibly quick if maintained, but also teach each client modifications they can take with them into any of our classic SIGNATURE Barrecore classes. Clients leave

feeling empowered to continue their strength training with non pregnant clients whilst listening to what their bodies need day by day. Q Is exercise something you would recommend for every trimester? A Most definitely! Of course, everyone should get the okay to workout from their doctor first but unless the pregnancy is high risk, every woman should maintain some sort of routine throughout the entirety of pregnancy. That said, not all forms of exercise are recommended for pregnancy

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Niki Rein, founder of Barrecore, on exercising during pregnancy and post-birth

B U M P F I T

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wellness INTERVIEW

“Barre fitness is actually one of the safest and best forms of prenatal workouts due to the low impact”

contractions, these contractions are incredibly efficient at building strength and muscle endurance. They are also incredibly tough from a mental endurance point of view which actually changes the mindset to a more empowered state as strength and stamina build. During natural birth, the contractions/ dilation phase can last many hours and the pushing phase comes at a time when the body has gone through the toughest workout in your life. Birth contractions are isometric so having a regular barre fitness base is a massive help during labour from both a physical and mental perspective. We all know the hormonal swings that happen throughout pregnancy and beyond and because Barrecore classes are so empowering and uplifting moods stay more stable with regular classes.

and modifying each day as the body needs is an absolute must. High impact workouts (running, HIIT, jumping, etc) should be off the table immediately until the baby is 6 months old. This is due to the release of the hormone relaxin which loosens the connective tissue throughout the body during and up to 6 months postnatal making injury much more likely. Plus, pregnancy and birth take a traumatic toll on the pelvic floor (even for those who have a cesarean birth) so focused rebuilding exercises are best for maintaining a strong yet supple pelvic floor

as opposed to more downward pressure from fast paced pounding exercises. Barre fitness is actually one of the safest and best forms of prenatal workouts due to the low impact and pelvic floor based exercises. Our clients always comment on how great they feel during their pregnancy journey and how quickly they bounce back post birth. Q How can it help mamas-tobe to prepare for labour? A At Barrecore, we use a lot of isometric

Q And finally, what about other benefits, like mental health? A Barre fitness benefits are endless! Not only is barre great for fat burning, muscle building, mind clearing, posture rebalancing and mood boosting but it’s a form of exercise that is safe and effective for any age group and fitness level. There is increasing evidence that the main type of contractions (isometric – as mentioned) we use throughout our classes create more mitochondria in the cells which keep the body in an energy producing and fat burning state if done at least two to four times per week. I believe there will be a lot more research on why, not only barre fitness, but low impact, high intensity exercises are best for overall health and longevity. Stay tuned... barrecore.com/class/barre-prenatal Februar y 2020

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Mentor Mum

MOVEMENT Angela Spencer, founder of Babyopathy, on the benefits of having some girl power at your birth

he leaps in technology over the past decade have been so vast, that we are rarely amazed by anything anymore, however what has changed quite drastically is the dynamics of who is present at the birth of a child. Gone are the days of dads pacing the floor in the waiting room of a hospital, whilst mum is in a separate room surrounded by the women of the family and/or the community midwife. Leaving dad oblivious to the stress and trauma of the physical birth, just being given the news of whether he’s the proud father of a son or daughter was historically the norm for hundreds of years. More often than not, nowadays it is just dad who is chosen as birth partner and you’re on your own at home or in a ward until you need a delivery room. Now no offence dads, but I would say 90% are never prepared for what

“I firmly believe that every woman giving birth needs a woman by her side, a ‘Mentor Mum’” they will see, hear or feel as a birth partner. However, as yet, due to anatomy, none have given birth and know what it’s actually like. There is a rawness to birth, an intensity you cannot describe, only experience. You cannot know how, as an individual, you will react to contractions until you experience them and even then, every woman experiences them

uniquely. But, and it is a big but, once you have given birth it gives you an understanding, compassion and appreciation for other women that you just cannot teach someone. This is why I firmly believe that every woman giving birth needs a woman by her side, a ‘Mentor Mum’ who understands the process. I am not saying dad shouldn’t be there and participate at all, of course he can. However, having someone that instinctively knows what you are experiencing, what you may be needing and be able to communicate all of this to dad is vital. Most importantly, a Mentor Mum is there to know you, your birth plan, and to understand what you might want without having to ask. A trusted person whom you can rely on to answer those questions that only someone else who has given birth can answer, where no question is taboo. I have been a Mentor Mum a few times now and every dad has said the same thing – he didn’t have to worry if he was doing anything wrong or have the feeling of helplessness that other dads talk about. He could just relax and be there if he was needed and focus on the most beautiful thing on earth, the birth of his baby. Every mum (and dad!) about to give birth needs a Mentor Mum by their side!

B A BYO PAT H Y Relaxed Mum, Contented Baby is published in May 2019 (RRP £19.99) by Panoma Press and available from Amazon and babyopathy.com Februar y 2020

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Introducing the stroller by JUNIORJONES, the ultimate in style and performance. Its unique all-carbon fibre chassis, together with features like Tru-Ride 2 technology ensure a smooth ride and an effortless push. With every detail considered to maximise comfort and safety, this is the stroller for babies who deserve the best of everything.

To find out more, visit juniorjones.com or follow us

THE ALL-NEW CARBON FIBRE STROLLER JJ.indd 1 Mama_201x260_Lifestyle.indd 1 Absolutely

03/12/2019 02/12/2019 15:33 10:50

partnersh i p OIL ATUM

XXXXX XXXXX Xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxxxx xxxxxx xx Beth Goss, mama to 2 year old Jay

M AG I C

OILATUM Daily Junior Head To Wash 300ml, £4.99; boots.com

bubbles

One mama’s story of how she cleared up her toddler’s eczema with the Oilatum bath range

eth Goss’s son, 2 year old Jay, had suffered from sore, cracked eczema since he was 4 months old, which got progressively worse. She says: “It was always red raw, bumpy and extremely dry. It was horrible to see my little boy in so much pain.” “His skin became so sore that having a bath, something which is usually fun for parents and their children, became a horrible experience for us.” “We visited our GP several times who each time said it could be something different. From food allergies, to washing powder to perfumes.” “The doctor eventually prescribed an emollient cream but it did not give the expected results as Jay’s skin continued to cause him discomfort and looked extremely sore. We kept returning to the doctors

who prescribed a steroid cream. While this did help reduce the eczema flare ups, I knew of the damaging effect long term steroid cream use can have so I didn’t want Jay using it forever.” With no sign of his skin improving without steroids, Beth explored her suspicions on whether a food allergy was the cause. “We started to cut certain foods out of his diet to pinpoint the direct cause, but were at a loss when his skin problems continued. We spent so many sleepless nights cuddling Jay who would be crying and itching aggressively at his skin.” After months of little success at home, Jay was referred to the children’s hospital in Brighton to test for food allergies. Fortunately for him the results came back all clear of no allergies, but they were still in a position of not knowing the cause. “Still having concerns, we were referred to the dermatology department where they

confirmed that the skin problems were eczema.” “The dermatologist prescribed him with a much stronger steroid cream which cleared the rash up and now we use an emollient daily to keep it under control.” Still haunted by the fear of bath time, it was actually Beth’s mother-in-law who recommended a brand called Oilatum as she had used the adult range to help her with a very rare skin condition. “We were blown away with the results. From the very first use, it soothed the skin and showed no sign of any making the condition worse.” “His skin feels soft and a lot less itchy. I am extremely grateful for an easy result which doesn’t come with prescription.” “We now use both the Oilatum Head to Toe wash and the Oilatum Bath Foam and Jay’s skin has never looked better. It’s not come up in any kind of rash, nor has his eczema been irritated by these products. This result feels like a huge success for parents who have had a long time of watching their children in pain, especially during bath time when soaps can cause stinging.”

Oilatum offers specialist skin care designed for the treatment of dry and eczemaprone skin and is suitable for children;

oilatum.co.uk Februar y 2020

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FR EE Y ER IV EL D M to ai dU an nl ! K

New solid wood cots from only

ÂŁ139

Our new range of cots are crafted from sustainable solid wood and ďŹ nished with our natural water-based Eco-Blend Bio-Paint. Slightly smaller than Boori cot beds, they are perfect for keeping in the parent's bedroom as a bedside-sleeper during those early stages.

Boori cot vs Boori cot bed

Boori cots fit through a standard door frame. Follow us @booricollections

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Find out more by visiting: www.boori.com/uk

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home &

N U R S E RY T R E N D S A N D I N T E R I O R S P R O D U C T S p .6 6 I N S I D E O U R FAVO U R I T E S PAC E S FO R LI T T LE O N E S p .6 8

Blue Note CAM CAM COPENHAGEN

Everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite Scandinavian nursery brand returns with a new collection that plays to its strengths: subtle shades, delicate floral prints and their harlequin furniture in juicy berry and petrol tones. Everything is organic and sumptuously soft: the perfect way to prepare for Spring. camcamcopenhagen.com

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mama

N U R S E RY NOTES Helen Baron’s interior picks for the month ahead

PA R K I T KIDS CONCEPT

we love

No imaginary world is complete without a toy garage and this is one of the best. A modern take on a classic, it even has a gas pump with a hose and rotating wash cylinders. scandiborn.co.uk

GOOD TIMES KONGES SLOJD

Three cheers for the celebration train! Looking for a touch of vintage charm to adorn your table come family birthdays? This circusthemed decoration includes brass numbers 1-9, two of which fit on the train at any one time – so it’s suitable for most ages. £69.95; scandiborn.co.uk

Beech Baby EO DESIGN

Just about the cutest kid’s chair on the planet, the EO elephant chair is finely crafted from solid beech, so it should withstand whatever your littles can throw at it. And it looks like a baby elephant – what’s not to love? £174; nubie.co.uk

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h o me & interio rs

Soft Launch GUS AND BEAU

NURSERIE S

Shops Focu

Soften the blow of toddler rough and tumble with these easy-toclean, printed foam play-mat tiles, which you can slot together in any permutation you require. Choose from seven stylishly muted designs. 6 tiles for £65; gusandbeau.com

POM POM

M AT C H Y M AT C H Y

Wo r d s H E L E N BA RO N

THE SMALL HOME

This boutique store offers a capsule collection of beautiful, artisan-created lifestyle, clothing and interiors pieces – among which you’ll find these handmade sheepskin moccasins. There are matching designs for your little, too. £30; thesmallhome.co.uk

5 with A TOUCH OF PINK

LIEWOOD BOBBY RUG, £63; sorenshouseco.uk

LITTLE ELLA JAMES COTTON BEANBAG £129; notonthehighstreet.com

MEL PORTER PERSONALISED FAIRY LOOP £38; notonthehighstreet.com

NUMERO 74 WALL TIDY IN DUSTY PINK £53; smallable.com

CANDYLAB PINK SEDAN £14; smallable.com

he tide is definitely turning, at least in our little corner of the consumer world, as more brands put sustainability at the heart of their offering, ensuring everything they craft, stock and sell is ecologically on-point. One of these small-scale pioneers is Pom Pom, a sweet online boutique that takes the hard work out of finding plastic-free gifts and toys. And by plastic-free, we don’t mean ‘no plastic in the toy itself but it may arrive smothered in plastic packaging’. PomPom products don’t feature any plastic at all. Case in point: the brilliant BioBuddi building blocks, which look exactly like Duplo but are made from sugar cane. Or the snazzy glass vials (with metal screw lids) of eco-friendly Bioglitter. Many of PomPom’s products are simply very fine examples of classic wooden or textile toys. What’s more, they also stock a range of clearconscience interiors products. Our current fave product, though, is the wooden polar balancing game (£19.95, pictured) – 20% of all profits from the sale of which go to the Marine Conservation Society. shoppompom.com

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Nurs e r y

Time

Five of our favourite nurseries on Instagram right now

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h o me & interio rs INSPIRATION

1. Jules Brinkhuis @babyhitparade Jules Brinkhuis is an interiors stylist. Mama to Flo and Freddie, she lives in The Netherlands and has a beautiful webshop called Good-Night-Shop. She shares a look inside her sons’ rooms on her Instagram feed, which are decorated with an eclectic mix of Scandi-inspired items, with a Dutch twist. Of the space pictured on the left, Jules says: “I decorated with colours to make the room playful and bright, yellow being the main colour as it’s my son’s absolute favourite, and kept the furniture classic so I can accessorise with fun pieces and create a stylish but still warm atmosphere.”

2. Kelly Mindell @studiodiy A dab hand at crafting, LA-based blogger Kelly Mindell is known for her joyously colourful feed, so it stands to reason that her home is full of pieces she has ingeniously upcycled in the brightest hues. Our favourite room in the house has to be her son Arlo’s nursery, which is full of bold artwork, rainbow colour-coordinated books, and personal touches. Kelly says: “From the second we brought Arlo home, I’d been dreaming and scheming about his room. I knew exactly what I wanted it to look like and I could picture every detail. I wanted it to be magical for him. I wanted it to be full of colour, culture and items created by people we love.”

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3. Linda Dekkers @liveloudgirl Photos: Natelee Cocks Based in Dubai, Linda Dekkers is the mama behind Live Loud Blog and she also runs her own interiors styling consultancy and creative agency. Weaving together different textures, styles and colours, she created the space above for two twin boys to share. She says: “We always want to create spaces that kids can grow into, not out of. Even though nurseries are generally kept calm and subtle, we feel that this wallpaper, together with a pop of colour, will remain enjoyable, even when the twins grow up.”

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h o me & interio rs INSPIRATION

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LEARN, PLAY AND EXPLORE WITH US

Sylvia’s Happy Childcare is homebased nursery in Queen’s Park. Our aims are to provide outstanding Early Years Education for children through creative hands-on play and learning experiences in a stimulating, safe and relaxed environment.

We want children to feel excited about learning and aim to give them a positive first experience of life. We are open 50 weeks of the year including school holidays

Monday to Friday from 8:00am - 6:00pm To arrange an appointment to view our nursery or for more information please don’t hesitate to contact us. sylvias.happy.childcare@gmail.com T: 0208 9602 217 M: 07908 667 509

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h o me & interio rs INSPIRATION

5. Emilie Jacob

4. Joëlle Rothuizen “I love to create little dreamy universes for them”

@inblkandwht Mama of three Joëlle Rothuizen is a fashion designer based in The Netherlands. She’s known for her minimalist style and love of a monochromatic colour palette. Decorating her children’s rooms was all about creating as much magic as possible. She says: “I love to create little dreamy universes for them in which it feels like anything is possible (because that’s what childhood should feel like right?). I draw inspiration from my all time favourite childhood stories like Peter Pan and Nils Holgersson.”

@stellaandthestars Dubai-based home stylist and interiors blogger Emilie Jacob is a self-confessed neon-addict. Of the toned-down room she created for her son pictured above, she says: “This was my son Teddy’s existing room which he used to share with his big sister so we simply refreshed the space with a few new accessories and furniture. The existing shared bedroom had a mix of bright colours and neon accessories. He had outgrown his original bright orange crib and this spurred me to move away slightly from bright colours and update the space with a more restrained palette – keeping the dark grey wall and adding lots of texture with mustard tones and natural wooden accents. The room feels less babyish now and more calming and tranquil, just like his personality.”

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escapes A R O M A N T I C G E TAWAY TO V E N I C E ( W I T H O U T T H E K I D S) p .76 A S O P H I ST I C AT E D STAY AT T H E SWA N I N S O U T H WO LD p .79

Go Bespoke THE GREEK VILLAS

We knew this premium villa specialist was a find from the moment we saw their website – it’s almost as slick and contemporary as the beautiful villas it showcases. Search by villa type, destination or experience – and speak to the Greek Villas team for expert assistance making your trip one to remember. thegreekvillas.com

Februar y 2020

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escapes

INSPIRATIONS

ROCK STAR EDEN ROC HOTEL MIAMI

One of Miami’s most sophisticated hotels flexes its family muscle with a kids and teens stay free offer for bookings up to the end of 2021. Youngsters can stay free in the same room as an adult – and 4-12 year-olds can enjoy the Beco kids club every weekend. edenrochotelmiami.com

mama’s

T R AV E L NOTES Helen Baron rounds up the most exciting travel kit and destinations

we love

OCEAN VIEWS I KO S A N DA L U S I A

JETKIDS BY STOKKE

The Costa Brava gets a stylish new addition with the opening of the latest Ikos resort, complete with complimentary kids club. Expect lavish decor, open-walled rooms and dining options to die for. Opens May 2020. ikosresorts.com

Flying long-haul with a small person? Pack their cabin toys and snacks in a JetKids BedBox, which transforms in seconds into a secure extension of their seat – meaning they can stretch out and relax even in Economy. £149; stokke.com

3 o f t h e b e s t P O S T NATA L R E T R E AT S Active Birth Centre

F LY I N G HIGH

&Breathe

&BREATHE

Holy Mama

IBIZA

M A R T I N H A L , SAG R E S

VA R I O U S L O C A T I O N S

You’re guaranteed regeneration at these blissful Balearic retreats – a holistic mama-and-baby programme of prenatal yoga, postnatal yoga and baby massage designed to support the transition to motherhood. Dates tba;

Head to &Breathe’s Portuguese postnatal retreat from 1-7 March for daily mindfulness, fitness classes and assessment, nutritious food plus relaxing massage for mum, dad and baby, in luxury 5* accomodation.

Holy Mama offers retreats for nuturing yourself, your child and each other. From Bali to Ibiza via Morocco, the menu of delights includes daily yoga, organic food and a creative childcare programme.

activebirthcentre.com

andbreathewellbeing.com

holymamaretreats.com

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“Leave the kids behind and enjoy a weekend in a city that more than lives up to its reputation as the most romantic in the world”

THE BREATHTAKING CITY OF VENICE

Art of R E L AXAT IO N PLUSH VELVET AND MARBLE DECOR

Carly Glendinning enjoys a romantic escape to Palazzo Cristo in Venice 76

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esca p es VENICE A PRIVATE COURTYARD PERFECT FOR LAZY BREAKFASTS PALAZZO CRISTO’S AMENITIES MAKE IT FEEL LIKE A HOMEFROM-HOME

perfect place to stay if you want to experience the city like a local. Past a pretty gelato shop, the entrance to Palazzo Cristo is hidden in a private courtyard giving it a secluded feel. The building itself dates back to the 15th century and was recently renovated by Paris-based designers Anna Covre and Frederic Tubau. The project was a true labour of love for the couple, and has been finished with spectacular results. Walking the line been Venetain opulence and contemporary design, it’s a triumph in Carrara marble, swathes of velvet, and exposed wooden beams. Our apartment was spread across two floors and felt like a home-from-home. A spacious living room with hidden flatscreen television, well-equipped kitchen with quaint courtyard, notto-mention the heavenly four poster bed and luxurious freestanding bath next to it, all made us want to linger longer than usual in the mornings. Like walking around in an outdoor art gallery, Venice itself certainly has a lot to offer in terms of sparking little ones’ imaginations. However, it is not the most child friendly destination. A bustling city without cars, exploring must be done on foot and with an abundance of steps to climb, it’s not an easy place to navigate with a buggy. Palazzo Cristo’s apartments are plenty spacious enough if you are travelling with a baby though and they can provide a travel cot. Just be prepared to use your carrier a lot and make sure you have a super light travel buggy. Better still, leave the kids behind and enjoy a weekend in a city that more than lives up to its reputation as one of the most romantic in the world. A thoughtful listing of Venice’s unmissable spots are included as part of the welcome package at Palazzo Cristo, but we also sought

kimming the water, we approached Venice by ferry in the magical light of the early evening. I had of course expected the city to be breathtaking, but I don’t think anything can quite prepare you for its almost fragile beauty. Dusky-hued buildings (so unchanged by time that they are crumbling a little) lining the windy streets, crisscrossed with dreamy canals. We were staying at Palazzo Cristo, situated on the Cannaregio border into Castello and just a short walk from our drop-off. The collection of three luxurious apartments overlooks a charming historic square. Home to Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo, one of Venice’s largest and most important churches, it’s the

THE LUXURIOUS FREESTANDING BATH TUB

local recommendations from Anna and Frederic. Our favourites were: Caffè La Serra (housed in a beautiful historic greenhouse on the edge of the edge of the Giardini), Amo (owned by Michelin-starred chef, Massimiliano Alajmo, this was a great spot to enjoy modern fine dining in a relaxed environment), and because we really wanted to enjoy the apartment as much as possible, we also ordered in one night from local favourite Crazy Pizza. My biggest recommendation though is to just wander around Venice and get lost. Dip in and out of the city’s osterias, eat gelato for breakfast, and take a ride on a gondola. And when you’ve overloaded your senses, Palazzo Cristo is the perfect haven PA L A Z ZO away from the crowds.

C R I S TO Rates at Palazzo Cristo start from €450 per suite per night. palazzocristo.com

VENETIAN OPULANCE MEETS CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

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escapes

UK GETAWAY

The Swan SOUTHWOLD

Helen Baron discovers a sophisticated Suffolk retreat

The Hotel

s far as public-house hotels go, The Swan is Southwold royalty. Owned by the town’s own Adnams Brewery since 1872, today it’s an inn of imposing size and impressive outlook, albeit with a knack for amping up the cosiness once you step inside. Renovated in the not-too-distant past, it avoids the identikit feel of so many rejigged country pubs, opting for more quirky contemporary decor.

butler-served picnic), then strolled the high street exploring cute bakeries, book shops and a mighty fine cheesemonger.

The Restaurant The Room

ravelling as a four, we were comfortably installed in the Family Suite. This takes the form of two large, tastefully styled rooms – each with a king-size bed, sitting area and spacious bathroom – linked by a private corridor. The kids wouldn’t sleep in their own room, so the staff merrily brought a campbed and cot to accommodate all of us in one. We then curled up sipping complimentary Adnams gin (flavoured with matcha tea – very cosmopolitan) in fluffy white bathrobes while the girls raced up and down ‘their’ hallway and used the second room as a hide ‘n’ seek arena.

The Town

ot for nothing is Southwold renowned as one of the premier second-home locations for a certain type of affluent Londoner – specifically, North and East London-dwelling media types savvy to the town’s immaculately preserved streets, picturesque dunes and cluster of high-end independent shops. We were there just before Christmas, when Southwold is at its bustling, twinkling finest. We enjoyed a brisk morning on the beach (alas, it was a little too cold for the hotel’s

ining at The Swan can mean room service or very fine pub grub in the main public areas… but if you’re only there for a night, you should opt for a meal in The Still Room. Named for the Adnams distillery, its coppertopped cocktail bar, velvet upholstery and walls brimming with fine art make for an elegant experience – and no one batted an eyelid when we brought our little ones to eat with us.

Room rates start at £189 per night , breakfast included theswansouthwold.co.uk

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resources FO U R WAYS A N O U T D O O R E D U C AT I O N H E LP S LI T T LE M I N D S B LO S S O M p . 8 6 O U T D O O R A DV E N T U R I N G : W H AT TO W E A R TO FO R E ST S C H O O L p . 9 0

Family Af fair N FAMILY CLUB

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to make learning

FUN AGAIN How children can benefit from a fun approach to learning Wo r d s M A D E L I N E M C M U R D O

un is the foundation of a wellrounded education. After all, we know that happy children want to go to school and tend to thrive. Play is the common denominator throughout EYFS and the primary form of learning in a nursery school setting. Children develop language skills, their emotions and creativity, social and intellectual skills through play. It is a natural activity through which they

learn about the world both indoors as well as outdoors. Children learn to take risks, explore new ideas, problem solve and develop their imaginations both independently and as part of a group. Adults play a crucial part in facilitating this type of learning by providing time, space and resource to have fun and learn through play. Here at Parkside School, Cobham, Surrey, FUN is also used as an acronym for Familiarity, Understanding and Nurture.

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reso urces

These are the key values practiced in our early years setting and is based on the importance of the above concept. The overall aim in the early years is that children have fun in a structured environment where they can grow in confidence, supported by individuals who genuinely care about their wellbeing. Having ample outdoor space is a real bonus for children to discover the world around them as well as enriching their physical, personal and social development.

Familiarity, Understanding and Nurture: The importance of children having a familiar environment with adults they know and trust is paramount in building their confidence and, therefore, their ability to learn. The comfort of a daily routine and set expectations within certain boundaries work to create security and contentment in their early years. When children are relaxed and know what to expect, their attentions are focused fully on learning and not on worrying about when their adult is coming to collect them. When they are busy with play amongst adults they trust and peers they enjoy being with, they will absorb the world around them and relish all that is involved in this. We support the children to understand their world by creating opportunities to

“When children are relaxed and know what to expect, their attentions are focused fully on learning” learn through play and structured tasks both inside and outside of the classroom. Real life experiences such as cooking, singing, painting and exploring the outdoors really contribute to skill development. The emphasis should always be on encouraging children to take calculated risks, to take the lead independently as well as supporting and guiding them to persevere

EDUCATION

with tasks in order to ‘make it happen’. The two elements above should be underpinned by a focus on nurturing the children and is paramount to their development and ability to learn. A proactive pastoral care provision should sit at the heart of any learning environment in order to guide children successfully through their early years and to build a firm foundation for children to progress into senior school. With the current emphasis on mental health and increasing pressures on children to do well, it has never been more important to establish healthy habits early on to ensure they are supported to do their best. These three ‘FUN’ values should be instilled at the earliest opportunity. Examining bugs in the field, picking up sticks, climbing trees, building a tower, dressing up, singing and dancing should be part of everyday learning. Socialising with friends during snack and lunch time ensure the children get the most out of their time in nursery, developing their individual talents and personalities in pre prep and throughout their school career and onwards. Building a firm confidence in the adults supporting them, peers, daily activities and the environment in which they learn, set children up to be the very best version of themselves. And we all know how time flies… and in the blink of an eye, they are walking through the gates of their senior school.

MADELINE MCMURDO Deputy Head and Head of pre Prep & EYFS Parkside School, Cobham, Surrey parkside-school.co.uk Februar y 2020

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‘ Enjoying childhood and realising our imagination.’ “My favourite thing about Dallington School is that the teachers and students are very friendly and positive, there is a brilliant atmosphere in the classroom” - Johan “I think Dallington teaches you in a way no other school does and I really enjoy that” - Alex Dallington is a family-run co-educational independent school, with a nursery, in the heart of London.

Personal tours each day of the week, except Wednesday. Next Open Evening: Thursday 14th May 2020 from 6 to 8 pm

Headteacher: Maria Blake Proprietor: Abigail Hercules Founder: Evan & Mogg Hercules MBE Email: hercules@dallingtonschool.co.uk Phone: 020 7251 2284 www.dallingtonschool.co.uk

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STICKY LEMON Backpack range; stickylemon.nl

reso urces EDUCATION MERI MERI Pom Pom Pencil Case, £12.50; merimeri.co.uk

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School

The most stylish accessories, from the cosiest coats to the best backpacks MERI MERI Alphabet Sticker, £1; merimeri.co.uk

TÖASTIE Cloud Puffer, £74.99 each; toastiekids.com DESIGN LETTERS Snack Box, £8; designletters.com

DJECO Umbrella, £7.75; djeco.com

YOUNG SOLES Rosie T Bar Shoes, from £69; youngsoles.london DJECO Marker Set, £6.45; djeco.com Februar y 2020

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resoescape urces sEDUCATION WHISTLER

“Xxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxxx xxxx”

Into the

WILD Four ways an outdoor education helps little minds blossom ready for the world ahead

Wo r d s C H R I S H U PP

re-schoolers learn through discovering the world around them, acquiring knowledge and experiences as they try things, many for the first time. Interacting with the natural world is a core part of their development and outdoor education encourages young children to delve deeper, because it heightens their curiosity and feeds their imagination. More and more frequently outdoor education, through initiatives like forest schools, is recognised as an essential part of early childhood development and is being embedded across the curriculum, from art to maths, science to languages. Here I’ve laid out four key skills that exploring the natural landscape beyond the classroom develops in our children ensuring they are ready for the world ahead.

An inquiring mind and academic growth Through exploring the natural environment, children are able to enrich their knowledge

through discovery and sensory experiences. I teach at ACS Cobham, where we have a dedicated outdoor learning space, a tepee nestled within a woodland area. Recently a class sat underneath the canopy, hearing stories of traditional Native American legends, whilst the smell of sweet grass incense and flute pipes drifted through the air, transporting students to another place. Activities such as this provide an opportunity for children to exercise their imaginations and help them develop a better understanding of the culture they are studying. The handson nature of the experience allows students to apply knowledge things they’ve learnt within the classroom in a creative way.

Developing interpersonal skills Many outdoor learning activities not only encourage children to engage with subjects on a deeper level but also provide an opportunity to develop crucial interpersonal skills. Each story told underneath the tepee to the class studying Native Americans covered themes such as family relationships, belief in the sacredness of the natural world or skills Februar y 2020

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Co-educational 2-4 years, Boys ages 4-13 years

Built on Tradition, Embracing the Future

NEXT OPEN MORNINGS Friday 7 February & Friday 15 May 2020 Welcome at 9:30am

To arrange a visit, contact us at oďŹ&#x192;ce@parkside-school.co.uk or call 01932 862749 Set in 45 acres of beautiful Surrey countryside with school bus routes from SW London. www.parkside-school.co.uk

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twitter.com/parksideprep

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10/01/2020 11:02 09:13 09/01/2020

resources EDUCATION

OUTDOOR LEARNING AT HOME The benefits of outdoor education can be realised at home and you don’t always need a far-off woodland to play in. Here are just a handful of ideas to get you started:  Standard areas at home such as a squared patio can be very versatile. With imagination, they can be turned into a graph, used for learning multiplication tables or more practically, for sports games.  With some simple equipment such as a tennis ball, a football and few friends, you can recreate the model of the solar system.  Create a ‘magic garden’ using a window box, plant pot or raised bed and use the opportunity to calculate seed to soil ratios or learn a few simple vegetable names in another language together.  Make a bug hotel out of recycled garden equipment, sticks and wood and watch as your new neighbours come to stay.

needed for survival. These themes were presented in an accessible way for young children, helping them develop empathy. Similarly, children also took part in forest school sessions which explored Native American skills such as constructing shelters and animal tracking. They also played games inspired by the training of young warriors. Through these activities, children needed to work together to build a shelter, collaborate on deciphering animal tracks and communicate with each other to complete their warrior trials.

Global citizenship Outdoor learning can also help introduce young learners to local, regional, and global concerns. Teachers can use the outdoor learning environment to bring focus to our living planet and the future outlook of our environment. We’ll often take our youngest children through a wildlife trail making site stops. Each child is asked to reflect on what they can see, hear, feel and smell, taking note of their immediate surroundings and focusing on the details – a spectacular spider’s web, red leaves fallen on the forest floor, or the birdsong. Through these activities, students feel a greater sense of connection with their local

“Teachers can use the outdoor learning environment to bring focus to our living planet” environment, developing appreciation for its natural wonders and a passion to safeguard it. Additionally, when children are encouraged to undertake small conservation tasks, such as planting trees, protecting bluebells, or making compost, they are encouraged to think about these issues in the wider world and foster deep respect for the environment. Children will retain their connection to nature for years afterwards, with a continued focus on sustainable practises.

Building confidence and learning to take an educated risk Much of outdoor learning for young children involves an element of risk-taking not found in the classroom. Age appropriate physical challenges form an important part of child development. For young children, outdoor learning spaces can seem adventurous and ‘wild’, but they will also be a controlled, safe environment which forms part of the school. This ensures that children naturally and instinctively learn to assess risk and are encouraged to make their own informed decisions about how to deal with unfamiliar and unpredictable situations (tree climbing or building dens for example). There is a lot of learning opportunity in testing their ability in a real-life context. Through outdoor education children gain a deeper connection with their natural environment and develop vital skills such as collaboration, communication and an inquiring mind which will set them up for life.

CHRIS HUPP Sustainability & Environment Education Coordinator, Forest Schools Trainer and teacher ACS International School Cobham Februar y 2020

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THERMALS  Layers are key for staying warm but mean little ones can strip more easily to adjust for changing temperatures – especially handy if all that running around warms them up. Wear long-johns beneath comfortable trousers such as jogging or fleece-lined bottoms. Two pairs of socks are advisable in autumn and winter (a thin cotton pair with thicker wool or fluffy bed-socks on top). minimalisma.com

O UTER L I M I TS

We’ve rounded up our fave brands for outdoor adventuring. Don’t forget to pack spares! Wo r d s H E L E N BA RO N

OVERALLS  Or snowsuits as they’re sometimes called – these are really only needed in very cold climes (or when it snows). Swedish brand Mini Rodini has pioneered sustainable snowsuits with micro fleece padding, GRS-certified polyester and a water-repellent Bionic-Finish® Eco coating. What’s more, you can recycle an outgrown suit and get £40 off a new one in store. minirodini.com

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Raincoat  This should serve as the third top-layer, either fleece-lined or paired with a removable fleece layer underneath (pack an extra jumper on colder days). Invest in a sturdy coat that will serve just as well outside of forest school, such as the Töastie raincoat or puffer jacket (they can be worn together), both washable and made from recycled materials. toastiekids.com

Waterproofs

Boots

 These will be essential yearround. We like the bib-and-brace variety – loose enough to fit thermals and warm clothing underneath but easy to slip on and off. We find Muddy Puddles the best for value and sustainability – they’re now made of recycled materials. Easily washable, expect them to come back VERY MUDDY. muddypuddles.com

 Contrary to popular assumption, wellies are not ideal forest school attire. Children need manoeuvrable footwear that flexes with growing feet and has some grip for climbing adventures. While wellies can be packed for the express purpose of jumping in puddles on particularly wet days, we advise a comfortable, suitably rugged and lined boot the rest of the time. £80; polarnopyret.co.uk

extra

K IT The Forest School Den Kit, £60; notonthehighstreet.co.uk

Recycled Padded Gloves with Grip, £16.80; polarnopyret.co.uk

Insulator Cap, €31.50; minirodini.com

Fleece-Lined Balaclava, £12; polarnopyret.co.uk

Snood Loop Scarf, £24.50; smallsmerino.co.uk

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Lou LEHANE

Lou Lehane is the founder and director of Baby Steps Nannies, a bespoke independent nanny agency who pride themselves on a personalised and friendly childcare placement service. babystepsnannies.co.uk

Ask the

EXPERTS Q

Parenting and medical professionals, as well as leading entrepreneurs, answer some of your most pressing questions 94

Q Should I choose a nanny or a nursery? A We often speak to parents who are weighing up the multiple childcare options of nanny vs nursery, if a childminder would be a better fit or should we have an au pair to help out? There are so many childcare solutions out there that it is sometimes difficult to establish what would be the best fit for your family in particular. A nanny allows parents the peace of mind that your child/children are being given one-to-one care specific to their capabilities and personality. A nanny works from your home, where your child is surrounded by their own toys and home comforts, providing an easy transition for when parents head off for a busy day at work. Nannies are experienced individuals who have great knowledge of the developmental stages of childhood, which could be invaluable for parents who may be new to it all! Imagine having the peace of mind, of going away or going to work knowing that your little one is being looked after by a professional who knows everything about them, whether they like butter on their toast or what teddy they take to bed. A nanny is not just a childcare solution but also an extension of the family, and any family that has had their very own Mary Poppins I have no doubt will agree.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A NANNY IS NOT JUST A CHILDCARE SOLUTION BUT ALSO AN EXTENSION OF THE FAMILYâ&#x20AC;?

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reso ur c es ADVICE

Heather MORRIS

Heather Morris is a Registered General Nurse and State Certified Midwife. She is mum to Freddy, Harry and Jack. metanium.co.uk Q My little one has just got her fi rst tooth coming through and now she’s got a sore bum. Does teething cause nappy rash? A Teething usually begins at around six months and your baby may seem ‘out of sorts’ at this time. Although there’s no real clinical evidence of a link between nappy rash and teething, many parents say their baby gets a sore bum

when their teeth are coming through. Teething doesn’t cause nappy rash but all the extra dribble your teething baby produces can lead to looser stools. This is sometimes called teething-induced diarrhoea which can irritate your baby’s delicate skin, meaning there’s more chance of nappy rash developing. Wherever you are, try to change wet or soiled nappies as soon as possible. Young babies may need changing as many as 10 or 12 times a day; older babies around six to eight times. Using a barrier ointment or lotion, such as Metanium, even when you’re away from home, will help protect your little one from irritants like poo and wee that can cause nappy rash.

Jessica MEADE

Jessica Meade is a mum of two young children. She joined NatureBond in 2018 and works in Sales and Marketing. uk.naturebondglobal.com Q I’ve seen a lot about silicone pumps lately. What do they do, and what is the best way to incorporate one in my feeding journey? A A silicone pump has multiple uses. Most commonly, it is used to collect milk leaking while nursing, but it can also be used to remedy a clogged duct! Typically when nursing, the opposite breast will leak milk. This milk usually ends up going to waste in a nursing pad or on your clothing. Silicone pumps were created to help save this precious liquid gold. The collected milk can be used to build a freezer stash or donated to a milk bank. To use, simply flip the flap back while squeezing the bulb and center over

your nipple. Release the flap and bulb and watch the milk begin to collect. To experience a strong suction, squeeze closer to the top of the bulb during application. If you desire a gentler suction, squeeze lower on the bulb. Silicone pumps offer a variety of benefits. They are economical, quiet, and extremely portable, allowing mums to collect milk anywhere conveniently! Only the NatureBond silicone pump comes with everything you need to start building your stash. The NatureBond Premium Pack includes a stopper, dust cover, carrying bag, and a pump strap, so there will be no more crying over spilt milk! The pump strap is a new addition to the NatureBond pump. While we are confident in the suction of our pump, many babies have “happy feet” and can kick off the pump. We listened to our mums and came up with the pump strap solution. For more tips, please visit our website or follow us on Instgram or Facebook. Februar y 2020

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We’re here to help when you and your family are ready to find your new home. Visit kfh.co.uk 9864_KFH_Spring Campaign_Absolutely Mama_Banner_420x28_art_v2.indd 1

Henry Fawcett Community Nursery (Leaf ) Clayton St, London SE11 5BZ 020 7582 0509

to know Mama’s guide to London’s best nurseries and preschools

Base Zero Nursery Happy Days 109A Randlesdown Rd, Gramsci Way, London, SE6 3HB 020 8461 3510 The Villa 54 Lyndhurst Grove, London SE15 5AH 0207 703 6216 Chairbears Day Nursery 9-12 Deptford Broadway, London SE84PA 020 8305 6588

SOUT H W EST N O RTH WEST

NORTH

E AST

North Bridge House Nursery School/Pre-Prep 33 Fitzjohn’s Ave, Camden Town, London NW3 5JY 020 7267 6266

Les Trois Oursons 4 Collins Yard, London N1 2XU 020 7099 0452

Hatching Dragon Nursery School 1 Viscount St, London EC1Y 0AA 020 7256 9365

Little Stars Nursery 58 Allen Rd, Stoke Newington, London N16 8RZ 020 7254 4367

Sahan Preschool Day Nursery 12 Stukeley Rd, London, E7 9QZ 020 3719 7002

The Mulberry House School 7 Minster Road, London, NW2 3SD 020 8452 7340 Living Spring Montessori St Michael’s Church Annexe, St Michael’s Road, London, NW2 6XG 020 8830 7331 Nuffy Bear Nursery Brondesbury Park Fitness & Wellbeing Centre, Sidmouth Road, London, NW2 5JY 020 3432 8708

Sylvia's Happy Childcare 119a Chevening Road, London, NW6 6DU 020 8960 2217

Puddleducks Nurseries Puddleducks House, r/o 75 Friern Barnet Road, London NW3 5JY 020 7267 6266 Hackney Care For Kids 61 Evering Rd, London N16 7PR 020 7923 3471 William Patten Daycare Nursery William Patten School, Stoke Newington Church St, Stoke Newington, London N16 0NX 020 3844 4227 Creative Explorers Day Nursery 18 Gisburn Rd, London N8 7BS 07956 809748

Oliver Thomas Nursery School 1 Mathews Ave, London, E6 6BU 020 8552 1177

The Lyceum Nursery 6 Paul Street, City of London, London, EC2A 4JH registrar@lyceumschool.co.uk lyceumschool.co.uk 020 7247 1588

SOUT H E AST Dulwich Montessori Nursery School St Stephen’s Church, College Road, Dulwich, London SE21 7HN 0208 766 0091

Eaton Square Nursery School, Belgravia 28 & 30 Eccleston Street, London SW1W 9PY Eaton Square Nursery School, Knightsbridge Rutland Gardens, London SW7 1BX Eaton Square Nursery School, Pimlico 32a Lupus Street, London SW1V 3DZ nursery@eatonsquareschool.com eatonsquareschool.com 020 7931 9469 The Knightsbridge Kindergarten St Peter’s Church, 119 Eaton Square, London SW1W 9AL 020 7371 2306 The Willcocks Nursery School Holy Trinity With All Saints Church, Prince Consort Road, London, SW7 2BA 020 7584 5054

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London. Property. We get it. 07/05/2019 10:37

Melrose House 55 Finlay St, Fulham SW6 6HF 020 7736 9296

Wee Ones Nursery 4 St Ann’s Cresent, London SW18 2LR 0208 870 7729

Hatching Dragons Westminster Units 3&4 Westminster Quarter, 2 Monck street, London, SW1P 2BQ 0203 912 2902

The Orchard Day Nursery 201-203 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1NL 020 3880 7373

Tadpoles Nursery School 68 Park Walk, Chelsea, London SW10 0NQ 020 7352 9757 The Barnes Village Nursery 3A Station Rd, London SW13 0LP 020 8878 5111 Gwendolen House 39 Gwendolen Ave SW15 6EH 0203 441 2450 London Early Years Foundation 121 Marsham St, Westminster, London SW1P 4LX 020 7834 8679 One World Nursery 9 Knowle Cl, London SW9 0TQ 020 7924 9505 Dee’s Day Nursery (Wimbledon) 2 Mansel Rd, Wimbledon, London SW19 4AA 020 8944 0284 Learning Ladders Nursery Ground Floor, Falkner Court, Francis Chichester Way, London SW11 5HX 020 7622 9300 Kiddi Caru Day Nursery 2 Piazza Buildings Empress State, London SW6 1TW 0207 386 4505 Tiggers Nursery School, Putney 87 Putney Bridge Rd, London SW15 2PA 020 8874 4668

Tiny Thinkers Childcare 192 Tudor Drive, Kingston upon Thames KT2 5QG 0203 441 2450

W EST Little Chepstow Nursery 108 Lancaster Road, W11 1QS 0207 243 0243 Rolfe’s Nursery School The Little House, 34a Oxford Gardens, London, W10 5UQ 020 8969 5805 New Studio Pre-School Kelfield Mews, Kelfield Gardens, London, W10 6LS 020 8969 5805 Denbigh Under Fives Group 5b Denbigh Road, Denbigh Road, London, W11 2SJ 020 7221 5318 Kids Unlimited 34 Ladbroke Grove, London W11 3BQ 0845 365 2918 St Peter’s Nursery School 59a Portobello Road, London W11 3DB 020 7243 2617 Ladbroke Square Montessori School 43 Ladbroke Square, London W11 3ND 020 7229 0125 The Square School 18 Holland Park Avenue, London W11 3QU 020 7221 6004

Holland Park Nursery School Kenley Walk Hall, Kenley Walk, London W11 4BA 020 7792 0323 Jack in the Box Kelmscott Community Hall, Ashchurch Grove, White City, London W12 9BT 020 8811 8099 Stepping Stones Nursery 5 Gayford Road, London W12 9BY 020 8811 1646 Bright Sparks Montessori School 142 Sinclair Road, London, W14 0NL 020 7371 4697 Vanessa Nursery 12 Cathnor Road, London W12 6JA 020 8743 8196 Little Owls Nursery 108 Lakeside Rd, London W14 0DY 020 3266 0044 The Kensington Kindergarten St Barnabas Church, 23 Addison Rd, Kensington, London W14 8LH 020 7371 4848

Iverna Gardens Montessori Nursery School Armenian Church Hall, Iverna Gardens, London W8 6TP 020 7937 0794 Caterpillar Montessori PO Box 105 11 London W4 5WU W4 5LG 020 8747 8531 Maggie and Rose 55 Finlay St, Fulham SW6 6HF 020 7736 9296 Millie’s House Nursery and Pre-School Distillery Lane, Fulham Reach W6 9US 020 8748 4303 Windham Nursery School Windham Road, Richmond, Surrey, London TW9 2HP 0208 831 6060 Merchant Square Day Nursery 13 Harbet Rd, Paddington, London W2 1AJ 020 7402 2227 Busy Bees at Hammersmith 3 Bute Gardens, London W6 7DR 0208 741 9945

Millie’s House Nursery and Pre-School Distillery Ln, London W6 9PL 020 8748 4303

The Corner House Day Nursery 82 Lavington Rd, London W13 9LR 020 8567 2806

One World Montessori and Pre-Preparatory 69 - 71 Brook Green, London W6 7BE 020 7603 6065

Bunny Park Day Nursery & Nursery School 37 Manor Court Rd, London W7 3EJ 020 8567 6142

Little Cherubs Nursery School Our Lady Of Victories Church Hall, 16a Abingdon Road, London W8 6AF 07810 712241

Hatching Dragons Twickenham 2 The Green, Twickenham, London, TW2 5AA 0203 912 2901

Carmelite Parish Centre Pitt Street W8 4JH 07810 712241

Februar y 2020 | 97

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TRIED & TESTED

IN DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

r e s ou rc es REVIEWS

Stokke Steps High Chair Seating System

Re vie we d by SOPH I E H E L SBY

Snüz SnuzPod Bedside Crib

R e v i e w e d b y PAW E L K U B A

s second-time around new parents, we knew that a crib is one of the most important purchases you’ll make before your little one arrives. We really liked the idea of being as close as possible to our baby so we looked at lots of different nests, but co-sleeping is quite a divisive subject in this country because of the dangers of rolling on your baby. Suitable up to 6 months, the awardwinning SnuzPod makes sleeping next to your baby a lot safer. It can be used like a traditional Moses basket, but you can also unzip the mesh panel closest to your bed so that you can easily reach in and out in the night for feeds. The design is really clever because you can also lift the bassinet

off the stand, so it can be moved around your home for daytime naps. We also love the rocking feature, which is useful for settling our daughter before bedtime. Also pretty genius is the reflux leg, which can be inserted if you want to gently elevate your little one. We have recommended the SnuzPod to so many of our friends. It really does make those first few weeks when you’re snuggled up in bed so much of the time a lot easier and it’s well-worth the investment in our opinion.  £199.95 snuz.co.uk

ith the Christmas period approaching, I was keen to find a way to bring my 3 month old baby to the table, so that she could join in with the festivities. I found the Stokke Steps high chair seating system perfect for my little energetic baby who loves to be the centre of attention! With the clip-on baby bouncer, my baby was able to sit upright at table level which was perfect during the all important Christmas day meal! The baby bouncer can also be used separately on the floor, and adjusts to different levels according to your baby’s weight. My daughter loves bouncing in her chair, and if she falls asleep in it, we can simply fold it flat and unclip the harness. All in all, I would really recommend this seating system to other parents as it can be used right from newborn, and grows with your child with the different attachments. Additionally it is super easy to use, it’s really lightweight, and it blends in nicely in your home! Winner!  Steps Chair £178; Steps Bouncer £149, stokke.com

absolutely-mama.co.uk

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rm 0 Fo g 2 h in 20 xt n r Si ope be em pt

All children can achieve

An award winning independent SpLDs specialist school VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.moatschool.org.uk

@Moatschool

@TheMoatSchool TMS_V1.indd 1

Or email oï¬&#x192;ce@moatschool.org.uk for tour dates 020 7610 9018

10/01/2020 14:53

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10/01/2020 11:36