Absolutely Mama July 2018

Mama J U LY 2 0 1 8 • I S S U E 1 8

Inside this issue

The Magazine for Stylish Mums

Cornish RETREATS Where to head for the summer break

Flex

APPEAL

Storksak on why honest hours work

POSTNATAL DEPRESSION It’s about time we smashed the stigma

Power Dressing

MAKE A SPLASH Beachwear we love

ISSUE 18 • JULY 2018

Confidence-boosting style

THE MAGAZINE FOR ST YLISH MUMS

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BB.indd 1 BGB WAH2 260x420 AM.indd 4 180601 UK

04/06/2018 15:54

take a stroll on the wild side bugaboo by We Are Handsome collection limited edition accessories

Bugaboo by We are Handsome Breezy Sun Canopy

Bugaboo by We are Handsome Mammoth Bag

Bugaboo by We are Handsome Summer Seat Liner

Š copyright Bugaboo International BV

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T H E M AGA Z I N E FOR STYLISH MUMS ma

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C

am Cam Copenhagen’s core originates from the love of babies and children, and a belief that they only deserve the best. It also comes from an understanding, that our surroundings are immensely important to us and influence us profoundly from the very beginning.

The overall design focus is sustainability, this means sustainable, organic production, and enduring design and material quality, which will be appreciated for generations to come.

We are a GOTS certified company, which places regulations for both organic production and social responsibility.

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mama WELCOME

contents J U LY 2 0 1 8

82

41

26 89

91

AGENDA 14 M ama Loves

35 In the studio

18 What’s On

39 Telling It Like It Is

84 A Room of One’s Own The benefits of backyard sheds

FASHION 48 Living Doll

TRAVEL 94 Very Vietnam

Family adventures at the

With Charlotte Denn, designer and founder of What Mother Made

On the wishlist this July

Top local events and activities

20 New Books

Fab, fresh reads for little ones

ESSENTIALS 26 B abe Watch

All the baby kit you need

MAMAHOOD 31 Insta-Mama

Growing an artisan business with Coral Atkinson of Velveteen Babies

ON THE COVER:

Nine In The Mirror

54

33 Flex Appeal

Storksak explain why honest hours in business work

Alexandra Hunter opens up about asking for help

Vintage-inspired swimwear

54 Summer Blush

Luxury linens and Gallic charm

WELLNESS 73 5 top tips

The brainfoods you need to know

76 Postnatal Depression Addressing the stigma and

accessing help

HOME & INTERIORS

82 Nursery Notes Chic items for baby’s room

revamped Four Seasons resort

98 Way Out West

Explore Cornwall from these family-friendly hotels

RESOURCES 109 Tot Gear

Kit to make parenting easier 110 G eneration Gain

Intergenerational learning

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mama WELCOME BON TON SWIMWEAR P.14

Editor’s

LETTER

STELLA MCCARTNEY P.42

WHAT MOTHER MADE P.35

I

n this issue we’re addressing postnatal depression. One in ten parents are affected (yes, dads suffer too) and its complexity means it can go unrecognised, undiagnosed and untreated for months or even years. In some cases (particularly in my own parents’ generation), the condition is only identified in hindsight, after children are grown and much suffering has been endured.

So let’s make postnatal depression part of the cultural conversation around pregnancy and mental health, free from stigma and negative associations. And if you want to offer practical assistance to the individuals and organisations working to support mothers with postnatal depression, we have details in our article on page 76.

Another issue never far from a modern mama’s mind is work; specifically, how to balance a career with looking after (and enjoying) little ones. We spoke to the founders of one of our favourite mama brands, Storksak, about building their business, and how their team’s success is underpinned by the concept of ‘honest hours’ – working arrangements that offer the flexibility parents need to perform the inevitable balancing act. Having heard what they have to say on the subject only makes us love Storksak (and their stylish accessories) more. Enjoy the issue!

MINI RODINI P.26

Hel en Ba r on E DITOR

@hel_bow helen.baron@zest-media.com

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: HELEN BARON Assistant Editor: GEORGIA MCVEIGH Commercial Director: CRAIG DAVIES Commercial Manager: ROCHELLE STREATER Account Manager: ZARINA KAPASI Marketing Manager: LUCIE PEARCE Art Director: PHIL COUZENS Senior Designer: PAWEL KUBA Mid-weight Designer: REBECCA NOONAN,

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10 things we Absolutely

LOV E Celebrate summer with an abundance of colour this July

GARDEN

Colour Concept

Stin e Goya Copenhagen-born Stine Goya entered the scene 12 years ago with a series of art-inspired designs. The brand embraces floaty fabrics, whimsical prints and bold colourways. stinegoya.com

OF DELIGHTS B imba Y Lola Bimba Y Lola is celebrating a summer of love with a collection inspired by the bohemian spirit of the 1970s. Delivering plenty of frayed denim, natural leather and paintbox brights, this is psychedelia made stylish. We’re fans. bimbaylola.com

FRENCH CONNECTION Whistles If, like us, you wish every day was a holiday, wear your heart on your sleeve – or at least on your handbag. This pouch features a Gallic slogan that’s oh-so-summery and completely contemporary. £35; whistles.com

Do The Splits

G row Go rg e ou s Split ends appear out of nowhere. Even after a haircut it can be hard to eliminate them – and that’s where End Split Ends steps in. Reinforcing strands and sealing broken fibres of dry hair are just some of the ways it helps. £19; growgorgeous.co.uk

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abso lutely ma m a LOVES

WOODEN HEART

Swim Team

Ercol The iconic British furniture-maker’s large Romana oak sideboard bears the company’s signature soft curve, while its clear matt lacquer shows the beauty of the timber. £2,090;

Bon Ton Bon Ton’s swimwear collection is quite possibly the freshest we’ve seen this season. Think tri-colour blocking and retro tankinis with a modern edge, all set off by shimmering green and blue one-pieces. smallable.com

heals.com

GRAPHIC ART

Ii t t a l a Iittala Graphics is a collection that draws on a range of different designers to create unique visual “expressions” – which are then used to adorn the humble mug. A high-end take on an everyday essential. 21.90€; iittala.com

or’s Editick P

Exotic Décor

Hou s e of Ha c kn ey House of Hackney has always pushed the boundaries and its new collection of exotic wallpapers, fabrics and homewares is no exception. Brighten up your home with a little “wow” factor. £195; houseofhackney.com

FLOWER FAIRY

Vitra Vitra’s Nuages vases are made of coloured, anodised aluminium or ceramic and come in several different sizes. Reminiscent of clouds, they can be easily grouped into clusters or large-scale configurations.

Tutti Frutti

Flying Tiger Hit the beach with these fun and fabulous round towels from Flying Tiger.

Choose from watermelon, citrus fruit or grapefruit – a refreshing way to stand out from the crowd. £10; uk.flyingtiger.com

vitra.com

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The Scarecrow’s Wedding 21st July – 2nd September Underbelly Festival, Southbank

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book The Scarecrow’s Wedding is returning to the stage in this funny and touching adaptation that’s guaranteed to get giggles from the whole family. Will Harry the Scarecrow win the heart of Betty over the dashing Reginald Rake? stickmanlive.com

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W H AT ’ S ON Best festivals, top museums and the return of FANTASIA for the summer months

3 O F TH E B E ST F E STI VA L S Inflatables, food and fun at festivals

Cornbury Festival 13-15 July Oxfordshire

For a relaxed family festival, look no further than Cornbury Festival. Boasting live music, rock stars, farmers and gourmet chefs, there’s truly something for everyone. cornburyfestival.com

Monstrous Festival 29 July Printworks

Monstrous Festival caters for children.

It has seven different fantasy worlds, a fairground and the world’s biggest inflatable. Supervised adults allowed. monstrouscreations.co.uk

Editor’s Pick

Sounds and

SORCERY The Vaults  3 July - 20 September

Inspired by the smash 1940’s hit Disney FANTASIA, Sounds and Sorcery is the underground immersive theatre experience that will bring your favourite songs to life in a multisensory environment. Forget Disneyland, it’s landed straight on your doorstep as you navigate the vaults of Waterloo. soundsandsorcery.com

Summer by the River Until 2 September London Bridge City

Returning for 2018, Summer by the River is inclusive for the whole family. Sip some Pimms while taking in a film or snacking on the wide range of pop-up food on offer. londonbridgecity.co.uk

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agenda

WHAT’S ON

Afternoon Tea Until 18 August Bermondsey Square Hotel

In celebration of World Bee Day and Bermondsey Street Bees, the Bermondsey Square Hotel has launched an afternoon tea incorporating the raw honey produced by its bumbling neighbours. Featuring fresh local produce with a honeythemed undertone, don’t miss the honey and lemon cheesecake or even the honey lemonade mocktail.

Bermondsey Square, SE1 bermondseysquarehotel.co.uk

ALICE IN WONDERLAND AT KEW 21 July - 27 August Kew Gardens

THOMAS & FRIENDS

R

oyal Botanical Gardens, Kew is set to become even more magical, turning into an outdoor theatre for a magnificent performance of Alice in Wonderland.

Become part of the action as you bump into the constantly late White Rabbit, watch the Queen of Hearts and her beautifully choreographed troop of cards and sing along to catchy tunes as Alice learns to fi nd her way around the Wonderland that is Kew Gardens. theatreonkew.co.uk

From 20 July Various locations

ngland’s best-loved tank engine is back on the big screen. Thomas is returning for his biggest movie to date, and it promises not to disappoint.

Watch as Thomas sneaks off around the world without the Fat Controller’s permission. His travels will take him as far as Kenya, where he meets Nia, an engine who teaches him the true meaning of friendship. thomasbwbamovie.co.uk

E

3 Top Museums

K I D S P L A NTI N G

LI F E I N TH E DA R K

As part of their summer sculptural exhibition, NOW Gallery is offering the opportunity for kids and adults alike to get their hands dirty with some planting. Plant a seed and see how the garden grows. nowgallery.co.uk

From the creepy, the cool and the cute, the Life in the Dark exhibition at the Natural History Museum will explore the deepest oceans, the darkest forests and the gloomiest caves – and shed some light on little-known creatures. nhm.ac.uk

21 July NOW Gallery

13 July - 6 January Natural History Museum

I N V I S I B LE S U P E R H E RO E S

Ongoing Institution of Civil Engineers

Teach your children an appreciation of all the invisible work carried out by civil engineers – work we often take for granted. Celebrate these remarkable people with a fun day out. ice.org.uk

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We love

BOOKS

Baby yoga from Britain’s best-loved DJ, how to pick the right pup and more heartwarming books for July

Wo r d s G E O RG I A M C V E I G H

B E N DY BA B I E S YO G A B A B I E S

By Fearne Cotton

Fearne Cotton is well known for her Radio 1 slot, but of late she’s taken a step back from the public eye and focussed instead on mental health. Her new Yoga Babies book is a great and fun way for both mamas and babies to unwind after a long day. £6.99;  penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

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Platypus Party T H I S Z O O I S N O T F O R YO U

By Ross Collins

None of the animals want poor Platypus to join their zoo – he’s too bland for the chameleons, and not graceful enough for the flamingos. But he really came to the zoo to leave behind an invitation to a party on his “platybus”... £11.99  nosycrow.com

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agen d a

BOOKS

COLOUR CENTRIC THE BIG BOOK OF BLUE

By Yuval Zommer

The world of fi sh just got even more fantastical. Yuval Zommer’s chatty book features his quirky illustrations – from shimmery to slippery. Discover the deep blue with fun facts and encounter sea turtles, whales, sharks, rays and seahorses, plus much more. £12.95;  templarco.co.uk

BOREDOM BE GONE

DOG DAYS

T H E W O R L D O F D AV I D WA L L I A M S : BOOK OF STUFF

By David Walliams

Featuring all your favourite characters from David Walliams’ books, this hilariously funny new tome from Walliams has new illustrations, fun facts in his unique style and a whole new comic strip featuring a whole new character, Raj. £9.99;  harpercollins.co.uk

PICKING PICKLE

By Polly Faber, illustrated by Clara Vulliamy

Choosing the right pup is a life-changing event, and as the longest-standing resident of the dog home, Pickle is used to seeing his friends leave him behind. Will Hungry Harvey or Dumpling fi nd a home?

Perhaps it’s Pickle’s turn! £11.99  pavilionbooks.com

Beach babes PI P AN D POSY

By Axel Schef f ler

From critically acclaimed artist Axel Scheffler comes the adventures of Pip and Posy, who are having a lovely day at the seaside. While Posy has a nap, Zac comes to play with Pip – but Posy is sad that Pip seems more interested in playing with Zac than her... £6.99;  nosycrow.com

BUNNY POISE BALLET BUNNIES

By Lucy Freegard

Betty loves to dance. She can perform beautifully in front of her family, but once she goes to a dance class she loses all her confidence and it seems like she’s not going to be able to do the end-of-term show. Will she be able to fi nd her balance in time? £6.99;  pavilionbooks.com

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Greenwich Theatre Presents The UK Premier of

THE JUNGLE BOOK

By Rudyard Kipling, Adapted by Tracey Power

15 – 26 August

‘a lush, colourful introduction to the ways of the jungle’ - SEE Edmonton

BOX OFFICE: 020 8858 7755 greenwichtheatre.org.uk

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agend a

PREVIEW

Roll up…

Giffords’ fabulous circus returns to London this month Wo r d s E V E H E R B E R T

G

iffords Circus celebrates the 250th anniversary of circus with a UK premiere tour of their new show, My Beautiful Circus.

The show is at Chiswick House & Gardens until 9 July, and afterwards will play at venues up and down the country until September.

In 1768 near Westminster Bridge, equestrian rider Philip Astley drew out a 42-foot circle and filled it with jugglers, acrobats, clowns, strong men and bareback horse riders. This spectacle was the world’s very first circus.

My Beautiful Circus will feature some of the classic acts, including deathdefying acrobatics, enchanting domestic animals and fan-favourite, Giffords Circus comedic genius, Tweedy the clown.

Circus-goers can enjoy dining at Giffords’ exclusive rustic restaurant, Circus Sauce, which tours with them. Circus Sauce serves a set three-course menu that changes weekly, using seasonal produce from the surrounding area.

Founder and producer Nell Gifford has said: “We are so thrilled to be taking part in the celebration of the 250th year of circus.

Show director Cal McCrystal and I have

~

“DEATH-DEFYING ACROBATICS, ENCHANTING ANIMALS AND TWEEDY THE CLOWN”

~

been asking ourselves: What makes the circus so magnetic? What is conjured up by the word circus? Why do we want to run away with the circus? What would the most beautiful circus look like? I hope that next year’s show will answer all those questions and more.” giffordscircus.com July 201 8 | 2 3

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Riding high • URBAN IKI •

Dutch design, Japanese technology and global potential – the new child’s bicycle seat from Urban Iki is something rather special.

Available in front- and rear-facing versions and a range of cool colourways, it’s safetytested and oh-so-pretty – as are all the brand’s clever accessories, including a protective windshield for frontriders. From 49€; urbaniki.com

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3

1

Babe Watch Stylish must-haves for summer tots

4

Wo r d s H E L E N B A RO N

2

5

1. Fish Tale

2. Swan Song

3. Got Milk

4 . Toy Time

5. Jungle Fever

Emma och Malena Sun, sea, salt and all manner of marine life feature in the kids collection of this Swedish brand, and we’re loving the design of this mackerel-print swimsuit. Ideal for mini surfers and sailors of all (nautical) stripes. £42; • alexandalexa.com

Cam Cam What’s more soothing than a swan? Perhaps that’s why Cam Cam chose the most serenely elegant of birds for this sweet musical mobile.

Hang it above baby’s cot, pull the string and it plays a soft summer melody.

Perfection. £30; • nubie.co.uk

Organic Zoo This British brand marries covetable design with a commitment to fair trade and the environment, manufacturing its collections in Europe using only 100% organic cotton and toxic-free dyes. We love its ethical packaging too.

• organic-zoo.com

Mamas & Papas Most playmats focus on the “mat” side of the equation, but this one puts “play” front and centre. Featuring integrated, interactive toys to stimulate senses and engage imaginations, it’s sure to buy you a few precious minutes. £29.25; • mamasandpapas.com

Vild House of Little x Puss Puss Taking inspiration from the names of the brands behind it, this collaboration features prints teeming with tropical flora and fauna.

Ideal summerwear for kids who love the great outdoors.

Printed tee, £36; • the-mini-edit.com

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essen t i a ls

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BA BY

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6. Golden Slumbers

7. Dragon Energy

8. Take Wing

9. Box Fresh

10. New Wheels

The Gro Company The only baby sleeping bag recommended by the Lullaby Trust is available in a new “Busy Bears” design. Made from 100% cotton, it helps keep baby cool and allows for natural ventilation, making it ideal for summer. £29.99; • thegrostore.com

Mini Rodini We’ve said it before, but for all its imitators, Mini Rodini pretty much owns graphic animal prints – and this cap shows why. Boldly clashing colours and a dynamic lizard motif emblazoning a classic streetwear style, we’d wear it ourselves. £29; • the-mini-edit.com

Ancient Greek Sandals What better way to ensure authentic sandal style than go direct to the source?

Wasn’t it the Greeks who invented these things? Th is brand crafts cute sandals from natural, toxin-free leather. We love the winged Ikaria model. £95; • alexandalexa.com

Bump to Box Whether treating a friend or indulging yourself, these luxury pregnancy gift boxes contain a masterfully curated edit of goodies tailored to your choice of trimester – from snacks and sublime skincare products to fitness classes. From £39; • bumptobox.com

Mutsy A brand-new stroller model, the Nio, features a lightweight design that doesn’t compromise on strength, comfort and practicality. Large wheels ensure it’s ready for adventure on all manner of terrain. From £689; • mutsy.com

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Get your

1O% OFF Quote AMM81

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Mama Maker • IN THIS SECTION •

The beautiful mobiles and nursery décor created by this month’s Insta-mama, Coral Atkinson, are the heirlooms of the future. Atkinson’s Yorkshire-based brand, Velveteen Babies, now has a global following – we chat to her about making it online. velveteenbabies.com

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Give your little one a parent’s-eye view of the world with award-winning LittleLife child carriers.

For life’s little adventures. littlelife.com

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01/03/2018 10:10

mamah o o d

INTERVIEW

INSTA MAMA Coral Atkinson of Velveteen Babies on how Instagram has helped her business @velveteenbabies • @coral.atkinson

Q How long have you been running Velveteen Babies and why did you start it?

A I began Velveteen Babies after the birth of my second child, Barney. That was back in early 2014 and I’d noticed a definite gap in the UK market for children’s design-led décor.

Back then it was really hard to find anything that suited a contemporary home, and I felt strongly that I didn’t want to compromise my home style just because we were suddenly thrust into parenthood. I wanted to create artisan-quality décor that had a sense of fun and whimsy, but appealed to both children and their parents.

Q You have a finely-tuned eye for kids design. What changes have you seen in the industry?

A The industry has become completely saturated over the past

two years with seemingly hundreds of kids design shops opening and many bigger brands now starting to take note from the small independents.

There’s a growing emphasis on artisanal and “slow” creation with a focus on workmanship and quality which I think is wonderful.

Q How instrumental has Instagram been to your business?

A Instagram in 2014 was the perfect springboard for creating a thriving, small business. It allowed me to reach a whole world of style-conscious, interior-loving parents and forged bonds, friendships and a special relationship with my customers that no other platform could have matched.

I live up in Yorkshire but it doesn’t make a difference – I can interact with the whole world, which is the benefit of operating online. It’s such a creative space and I’m constantly thinking of where I can take things next and what the future holds.

Q How do you deal with Instagram “pressure” – on your personal account and your business one?

A I believe in ebb and flow – some weeks I feel like I’m firing on all cylinders, have a good few shots on my iPhone that I’m excited about posting and all is well. Some weeks I want to leave my phone in a drawer and forget about online presence and the inevitable pressure

and “comparisonitis” it makes me feel. I like to view Instagram as a “highlights” reel and try not to take it all too seriously. For me, it’s the prettier parts of everyday life life and I try to convey a personal, down-to-earth, honest approach in the captions.

It’s very easy to get swept into the “scroll hole”, so I’ve learned to put my phone away through my day and just love it for what it is.

My home and children are dressed in everything I’ve found on Instagram and I’ve made strong friendships on there, so it still remains a big presence in my life and means companionship when I’m working, as self-employed life and motherhood can be rather lonely at times.

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06/02/2018 15:33

mama h ood

SUZI BERGMAN

SUZI & DAUGHTER

woman in

WORK Melanie Marshal and Suzi Bergman of Storksak on honest hours in working life HERO BACKPACK

Q You met through the school-run. Did you throw a few ideas around before settling on the idea for Storksak?

A We did, quite a few! In fact the initial idea was a baby sling, hence our brand name Storksak. But Suzi, being a lawyer, felt we might want to start off with a product that was in many ways easier and faster to bring to market. Some of the ideas we had at the beginning have since been done by other brands, but we are still very adventurous, and have quite a few different concepts bubbling in the design studio.

Why do you think the brand took off on a global level?

A Well, I’d like to say it was all down to product, being foremost a product person, but having some very big celebrities did make a difference in the US particularly. It’s so much easier to pick up the phone and call a big US buyer when your products have been seen on people like Angelina Jolie and Liv Tyler. I also like to believe that we pioneered highly functional and stylish products for parents at a time when there wasn’t anything like this around. There were either very expensive designer bags, which had little function, or very drab functional bags that you really didn’t want to use.

Q

MELANIE MARSHAL

Q A

What prompted Storksak Organics?

We realised that many of the organic baby

Q&A

products on the market were not certified and the quality was average. We wanted to make a range of exceptional organic, madein-England products for babies and children, so we worked with a team of specialists in organic skincare. Our fi rst major account was Whole Foods – they loved the fact that our packaging is neutral and different to the other brands they carry.

Q Tell us about your working day and life in the StorkSak office A Fun and busy. Hands-on and smallerscale. It really is like a big family, but without the family feuds! My fi rst design assistant, who is now much better than me, has been with us from day one! Our accountant has been with us from year two, and our totally amazing art director has been with us nearly the whole time.

Q Why do you think it’s important to champion fl exible working patterns?

A Funnily enough, I think this was how parents used to do things a thousand years ago… but with industrialisation, we started to compartmentalise the family unit. I mean,

~

FOR PARENTS FLEXIBILITY IS A MUST. SO LONG AS COMMUNICATION WITHIN THE TEAM IS GOOD, IT WORKS MUCH BETTER

~

think of when families all lived together.

Mothers would be able to leave their children and go off to do other things, and there wasn’t this totally crazy fi xed pattern that makes working parents’ lives a misery. I strongly believe in giving people the working environment that makes them happy, makes them love what they do and want to do it well. I was listening to a radio programme on Nomad developers in the tech industry, very much a younger crowd, and realised how now, we have to embrace flexibility, it’s how it works. For parents it’s a must, and so long as communication within the team is good and open, I can prove after fi fteen years doing it – and having a team doing it – that it works and works much better. storksak.com July 201 8

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mama h ood

Q&A

IN THE STUDIO Meet Charlotte Denn, childrenswear designer and mama of three

Q Tell us a bit about your brand and how it started A I started What Mother Made a few years after having my first daughter. I love fabrics, the texture, patterns and details and used to make clothes for her. It’s never really stopped, I suppose. I was interested in taking classic shapes and silhouettes and modernising them with fabrics and details. We started on Broadway Market and the reaction I was getting to the clothing was really positive, so we decided to make a real go at turning it from an interest and passion into a career.

I had no prior knowledge of the business side so that’s been a total learning curve and I’m still learning now, but with the help of some incredibly talented friends I’ve been able to bring to life the personality of the brand and create one that feels different to everything else out there.

Q Why did you decide to open your own brick-and-mortar shop/studio?

A I think the provenance of the clothes we buy is so important and we’ve always been honest and transparent about where our fabrics come from and the fact they are handmade in Hackney. Our previous studio in Dalston was tucked away and we had no capacity to invite the public in. Opening a shop and studio felt like a brilliant way of

on different areas and stages of parental life. Diaries and stationery, reusable coffee mugs as well as gifts for expectant parents. Having three children myself, I really understand what parents need and tried to stay true to that.

Q What are the tenets of good practice in childrenswear design?

A I think the main principles of childrenswear design is for the clothing to be playful, vivid, evoke memories of our own childhoods and put smiles on faces. Durability and comfort are key.

telling that story more clearly. We make the clothes in the studio, walk three metres to the front of the shop and display them. It was also really important for me to offer a space in which we could upskill the community.

In the near future we will be working with Quest to provide design and basic sewing workshops for teenagers – hopefully inspiring another generation of makers.

Q It looks beautiful. How did you go about designing the space?

A I’ve never designed a shop before but had a clear view of what I wanted the shop and studio space to become. Sitting alongside the clothing, there are brands that focus

Q How do you approach designing each collection?

A I’m inspired by old pictures from my childhood and those of my family. I build from there. Once I have an idea I’ll research fabrics and how I can use them to make garment patterns interesting and different.

You can plan and sample until there aren’t any hours in the day left, but I generally know I’m on the right path because I get excited about the end result. I’ll then sample a few of the garments at the market to see what reaction they get. There are classic shapes that won’t ever leave the collection as they have become so popular and almost synonymous with the brand too.

whatmothermade.co.uk; @whatmothermade July 201 8 | 35

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06/06/2018 10:25

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mamah o o d MOOD

BOARD

MY

ST YLE

Anna Cascarina of Little Flea Kids shares her inspirations @l i t t l e _ f l e a _ ki d s • l i t t l ef l e a .co .u k

ABOUT LITTLE FLEA

Little Flea is a children’s curated directory and magazine featuring the best kids and mama brands around! Little Flea is also a one-stop shop bringing you awesome things for the little people in your life. It was created out of a need for something more inspiring. The unique, the interesting, the style-savvy – that’s what was missing and that’s why Little Flea was born.

FAVOURITE BOOK

As the kids get older they have swapped toys for books. Ottie and the Bea have a huge selection of amazing books for all ages.

FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

SS18

Ibiza. The perfect destination for summer sun. Hippie chic, gorgeous beaches and only 2.5 hours from London!

FRES H DIN

CURRENT FAVOURITE PIECE

OS A URS

The Bee & The Fox “Bull Shirt” tee, available from Cocoon Child.

It also comes in adult size. I have one and I love it!

FAVE CHILDREN’S BRAND

I love Bobo Choses. It has the best combination of fun design and simple shapes. Each season just gets better and better. I also love the new brand Fresh Dinosaurs. Both are available at Olive Loves Alfie.

July 201 8

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We all know how unpredictable babies can be!

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08/12/2017 22/11/2017 11:56 13:18

mamah o o d

Telling it like it is…

Asking for help Alexandra Hunter on how to survive the early days – and trials – of motherhood

T

he thing about parenting is, it is literally impossible to understand how hard it really is until you are in the thick of it. I remember thinking about the realities of having my own baby before Seb arrived, and I thought it would be wonderful, relaxing and frankly a bit of a rest from my previously rather hectic life and work. How absurd. When you first hold your first baby, you’re on the back foot already; exhausted either from surgery or labour, too often both, and with no clear manual for what will be the most stressful and rewarding job of your life. Add hormones to the mix, plus lack of sleep and a lot of pain, and it really can seem almost impossible.

Having always wanted a baby, I assumed I would be a brilliant mama from minute one; that it would all

come naturally to me and that my baby and I would wander round in a cocoon of love for a year.

The reality, needless to say, was very different. I wish I had asked for more help from the outset, but I have never been very good at asking for help - I thought asking for help would indicate to others that I was failing.

When the health visitor first came to the house, I had been crying all morning, exhausted and with a hormone shift due to my milk (rather ineffectually) coming in. Rather than crying on this kind woman who was there to help, I stopped crying before she arrived, put on

~

COLUMN

my make-up and told her I was fine, everything was going brilliantly.

When she left, I started crying again. I had an irrational fear that if I told her how I was feeling, she might take my beautiful baby away from me.

Being a new mama is hard; it’s a shock to the whole system both mentally and physically. I had always been capable and competent and suddenly I wasn’t.

I remember a day when Seb was about six weeks old. All I wanted to achieve was to remove my old nail varnish and hang out the laundry, but didn’t manage either. My partner came home and asked me if I’d had a lovely day and again, I couldn’t stop crying. I hadn’t had a lovely day. I felt like I was failing where millions of other women found it easy and that I had lost myself. At which point, my mother was flown in like Mary Poppins and, with her help, I started to find things a little easier.

When people came to visit us in the early days I would frantically bake a cake for their arrival and talk about how delightful everything was. What I should have done was allow no one in the house who wasn’t prepared to take over, feed me and put the kettle on themselves.

A close friend lived nearby and when Seb was two months old she came round and told me to leave the baby with her and go out for three hours. She insisted. She did this every week for months and it was heaven. I went swimming and sat in cafés reading magazines that weren’t about babies and began to find myself again. I now try to do this for friends who live locally when they’ve had a baby, as I know how imperative help is.

We might not all have a village, but we all have people who love us and who would be happy to help. Ask for help – it doesn’t mean you’re failing.

You’re not: you’re doing brilliantly.

WE MIGHT N OT ALL HAVE A VILLAGE , BU T WE ALL HAVE P EOP LE WHO LOVE U S

~

July 201 8 | 39

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NINEINTHEMIRROR.COM

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S U M M E R ST Y LE S FO R M A M A p .4 2 • T I P S FO R P OW E R D R E S S I N G p .4 4 LOV E LY LO O K S FO R LI T T LE O N E S p . 5 4

Ju m p Up • BEYOND NINE •

“Inspired by Eighties doo-whoppers” may not be the most arresting introduction, but one look will pique your interest in this new maternity brand. Dispensing with cheap materials and unnecessary adornment, London-based Beyond Nine creates minimalist jumpsuits in cotton-rich fibres that will be favourites long beyond your pregnancy. beyondnine.co.uk

July 201 8 | 41

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mama

5 of the best F O R T H E B E AC H

ST Y LE NOTES

ZARA Wide Brim Sun Hat £25.99; zara.com

Helen Baron selects the styles, looks and launches that make summer sizzle WHISTLES Abigail Wrap-Dress, £149 whistles.com

SIAN SWIMWEAR Liliana Two-Piece Bikini, £170; farfetch.com

or’s Editick P

AO X DONALD Limited Edition Tote Bag, poa; aliceandolivia.com

Double Trouble •NOÉ & ZOË•

RAY-BAN Ja-Jo Round Sunglasses £137; mytheresa.com

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We love this Berlin brand’s take on mini-me dressing – characterised by complementary (rather than always identical) pieces and unashamedly unafraid of colour, contrast and creativity. Small wonder their collections are developing a cult following across the globe. noe-zoe.com

absolutely-mama.co.uk

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fas h i on

NICE OVERALL • L i t t l e Ye l l o w •

Th is London-based maternity brand chooses to see pregnancy as an adventure – and it shows in their designs, which are conceived for practicality as well as style. We love the Lindsay dungaree in black, with easy breastfeeding access and adjustable straps for comfort. £79; littleyellowlondon.com

MAMA

d Branus c o F

OT TOD’ A ME FLORAL DREAM

Who Founded in Florence in 2013 by Italian designer Silvia Mazzoli, ottod’Ame is the chic Italian brand catching everyone’s eye. Mazzoli has since shared her vision with eight women and between them, they aim to create two different collections each year.

• L o n d o n Te a D r e s s C o m p a n y •

We love the latest collection from the London Tea Dress Company for its fun floral and fl irty patterns – and the effortless day-to-evening silhouettes.

Lizzie Dress, £185; londonteadresscompany.com

we love SHOW STOPPER •PURE KID•

Fashion festival Pure London this month launches a new event showcasing the best in children’s and maternity style, PURE KID. The show will feature runway shows and stands from the best brands in the business – such as Sugarhill Brighton (pictured). Check the website for details. purelondon.com

Happy Feet Te v a

uring pregnancy, every part of your body needs TLC – but your feet should be high among your priorities. Go for something podiatristapproved and flexible to your changing form – like these Hurricane XLT2 sandals. £55; teva.co.uk

D

W H at ottod’Ame’s new SS18 collection is once again pushing the boundaries while maintaining its core appeal: chic, practical Italian clothing that embodies and empowers the wearer.

SS18 is all about the nomadic woman, taking inspiration from everywhere, from the fluidity of Texan style to the simplicity of the East. The results are certainly eye-catching. Despite its status as a global influencer, ottod’Ame has managed to bring each of its carefully curated and beautifully made pieces back to the effortless chic for which Europe is famous.

Fabrics and patterns combine to produce comfortable, stylish clothing that blur the lines between masculinity and femininity.

Where All items are designed and crafted in Italy, and ottod’Ame oversees production of the garments in Tuscany. This means that every step in the process is characterised by the personal touch.

ottodame.com

July 201 8

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Girl

power

Power dressing for summer: the psychology of style with Emma Willis Wo r d s H E L E N BA RO N

F

or obvious reasons, summer style tends to revolve around bikinis, straw hats and all things scanty – but not this year. Spring-summer 2018 has seen the surprising resurgence of one trend all women can get behind: power dressing.

The new focus on clothes that mean business – both literally and metaphorically – is perfectly embodied in high-street giant Next’s latest collaboration with broadcaster Emma Willis, the mama-of-three best known for presenting TV’s Big Brother, Celebrity Big Brother, The Voice UK and her own radio show on London’s Heart FM. Willis is married to ex-Busted band member Matt Willis, and her social media profile (over 1 million Instagram followers at time of writing) has made her something of a style icon for working women across the UK. “I think there’s a lot of pressure to be individual and look different,” Willis says of her approach to dressing.

“It’s not important to me to feel individual but more to trust my gut and to feel like me in [what I’m wearing].”

So what’s her ultimate power outfit?

“I think a suit gives me the most power – I mean, I don’t know if it actually does, but wearing one makes me feel comfortable and confident. A suit makes me feel fabulous.”

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fash io n

MUM ST YLE

Unsurprisingly, tailoring features heavily in Willis’ edit for Next, with trouser suits in softly flowing fabrics that combine ease of wear and sharp silhouettes.

It’s long been known that what you wear can impact your performance and emotions. In the words of Dr Aurora Paillard, Senior Lecturer in Psychology of Fashion at the London College of Fashion: “When it comes to power dressing, it’s proven that if you wear such clothes, or for example red lipstick, you will perform better and you will feel happier.”

Of course, the transformative power of clothes extends far beyond suits, and power dressing isn’t all about tailoring. Willis’ edit also features beachwear and casual pieces for sunny days in the city – but all the pieces share the same emphasis: these are clothes made for women, with women’s needs in mind.

From evening dresses and printed beach shirts to the perfect day-to-evening espadrilles, hers is a vision of summer dressing that puts confidence and comfort front and centre. So says Dr Paillard: “Your wellbeing will be higher if you’re wearing clothes you’re comfortable with and which show who you are.”

A new, more flexible and inclusive take on power dressing, then; one that eschews rules and embraces adaptability. We think this is one trend that could run and run. next.com

Make Maternity Style Work for You Personal stylist Lauren Manville has a wealth of experience when it comes to helping women fi nd power through style. And she knows how hard it can be to adapt your wardrobe to the fluctuating feelings (and forms) of pregnancy – which is why she’s founded her own maternity brand, Mother Rose. Here are her top tips for curating a peerless pregnancy wardrobe...

DON’T DEPEND ON JERSEY  It’s comfy and easy but also unforgiving. Also, be careful of prints on jersey – they can look cheap.

T H I N K A B O U T YO U R N E C K L I N E  Showing décolletage can feel sexy, especially with a growing cleavage. Be bold and try a couple of different necklines to fi nd out which complements your growing

~

“ YOUR WELLBEING WILL BE HIGHER IF YOU’RE WEARING CLOTHES YOU’RE COMFORTABLE WITH AND WHICH SHOW WHO YOU ARE ”

~

July 201 8

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No judgement. Just Jeans.

I Am Denim is the first clothing brand in the world to bring you jeans you can wear after pregnancy and abdominal surgery M A D E I N B R I TAI N

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Using a unique Second Skin Waistband Technology cleverly integrated into our specially designed jeans, you can be sure to find your perfect fit.

I Am Denim jeans are made in Britain to ensure the quality, luxury and comfort you deserve

01183 801877 iamdenim.co.uk hello@iamdenim.co.uk 05/06/2018 11:14

fash io n MUM

ST YLE

and is aesthetically pleasing. If even the thought of layering up makes you feel claustrophobic or constricted, you can always cheat by wearing a top with in-built layers.

LITTLE YELLOW SS18

INVEST IN SOME GOOD SWIMSUITS  These don’t need to break the bank.

Thankfully, there’s been a swimwear revolution of late, so there are lots of great pieces to select from.

WEAR PRINT

OPT FOR COLOUR

W E A R YO U R C O N F I D E N C E

 I appreciate that you might not fancy all-over neon pink, but do embrace colour. Everyone shines in their right colour. Hiding in a darkcoloured tent-like piece will do nothing for your confidence and outlook. Whether bright or subtle, do take the plunge and buy colour.

 When a body changes in such a dramatic way, although beautiful and brilliant, it can leave you feeling a little disconnected from not only your body but your image, sense of self and self-confidence. Your body is doing the most incredible thing, creating a human, so please feel smug and respect it! I know not everyone is lucky enough to have that pregnancy glow, so make sure to accentuate the bits that give you the most confidence.

If it’s your legs that look great, wear a short skirt or dress; if it’s your boobs, wear a deep V-neck. If your arms are the winners, opt for a sleeveless or tight-fitting top. Wear what brings you confidence.

W E A R WOV E N  Woven pieces will flatter your figure and feel more chic.

L AY E R U P  A nice way to break up the bump is to layer – this could be using a bomber jacket, a tank top or a shirt. I’m always layered up as I think it makes your eye dance around the frame

~

“QUITE SIMPLY, MOST PEOPLE SEEM TO LOVE BEING IN A SHED ON THEIR OWN”

~

ISABELLA OLIVER SS18

frame. From V-neck to round-neck, from square to cowl to wrap to diamond – there’s a winner for us all.

 I think print can look gorgeous on pregnant women – checks, polka dots, leopard – they all work, it doesn’t always have to be stripes; although I’m aware this is what’s mostly on offer. A print can make clothes feel like an outfit, so don’t shy away.

laurenmanvillestyle.com July 201 8

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LIVING DOLL Classic Americana and pin-up glamour get a modern makeover in Charlotte Olympia by Adriana Degreas’ cool swimwear collection cha rl o t t eo l y m p i a .c o m

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5 of the best B AT H E R S

STELLA MCCARTNEY Gigi branded swimsuit £61; alexandalexa.com

kids

FASHION NOTES

Summer peaks with flamenco frills, fun swimwear and the boldest of prints STELLA MCCARTNEY Multi-coloured Hailey swimsuit £61; alexandalexa.com

Paris Match • S é z a n e x B o n To n •

Introducing Sézane’s fi rst-ever collaboration with Bon Ton: a range that evokes long French summers and dreamy beach rambles while supplying a sweetly contemporary take on classic Gallic style. en.smallable.com

BOBO CHOSES Little Jane swimsuit, £40; sistersguild.co.uk

LIVLY Bunny Double Ruffle swimsuit, £44; alexandalexa.com

or’s Editick P

DOLCE AND GABBANA Mini Me swim shorts, 155€; melijoe.com

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KIDS

d Branus Foc

HEAR ME ROAR •Sometime Soon I Will C h a n g e t h e Wo r l d •

Sometime Soon’s most recent collection comes hot on the heels of the fi lm release of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. Th is is the brand’s fi rst capsule and they’re already making a distinctive style statement. the-mini-edit.com

MINI RODINI Wo r ds HE L E N BA RO N

A

LEMON GLOW • Ve l v e t e e n •

Channelling the classic femininity of the southern Mediterranean, Velveteen’s collection is ideal holiday-wear. We love the dresses, white as the flesh of Sicilian lemons, with flamencoinspired frills and lacy detailing. velveteenclothing.com

CITY CHIC •Agatha Cub•

We’re loving the retro styling and modern “metro” print of this dress by Agatha Cub. Featuring an artsy colour combination of mushroom and lilac, it’s unlike most of the styles we’ve seen this summer – and all the better for it. £44; the-mini-edit.com

Deep Blue Tinycottons

ummer shoes that are both modern and timeless, these baby blue numbers feature lightweight crepe soles, leather uppers and cute cut-out detailing – to ensure feet stay cool in the warmer weather. £66; alexandalexa.com

S

fter leading what, in retrospect, looks like little short of a revolution in the design of kids’ clothing, Mini Rodini is now upping the ante and leading the charge for sustainable style.

The spring-summer swimwear range combines all the brand signatures loved by kidswear connoisseurs: graphic prints, illustrated animal motifs, bold use of colour and versatile, streetconscious styling.

Deep oceanic blues are enlivened by polka dot-style bubble patterns while beach donkey emblems adorn summer hats. Matching swim bloomers and rash vests feature darting swallows in soft pink and pale lime, and UPF 50+ protective sunsuits star on-trend leopard print.

The most exciting feature is, however, the least visible: each piece in the range is mostly made using recycled polyamide fibres from plastic waste – discarded carpets, production detritus and out-of-use fishnets. You wouldn’t guess it from the softness of the fabrics, but these garments have been around the block a bit, in other forms – the block being the planet’s seas and waterways.

What this means is that Mini Rodini swimwear isn’t just fit for the ocean: it’s helping to clean it up. A step on from using organic cotton (which Mini Rodini always have), we think it’s pretty visionary.

Let’s hope it becomes another trend.

minirodini.com

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SUMMER BLUSH Organic clothing at its finest. Luxurious linens and Gallic charm meet vintage-inspired designs bebe- organic .com

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n ow OPEN

5

Se rv i ces w e s p ec i ali s e i n: Face and body •Laser hair removal •Skin tightening

•Medical facials •Injectables

•Skin peels 0208 767 3888 | 0751 836 7219 7 Upper Tooting | Tooting Bec | SW17 7TS 5AVECLINIC.indd 1

5thavenueclinic.co.uk clinic@5thavenueclinic.co.uk 06/06/2018 14:39

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B E ST N E W B E AU T Y B U YS p .6 6 • H OW TO CO O K W I T H K I D S ( A N D H AV E F U N W I T H I T ) p .6 8 T H E B R A I N FO O D S E V E RY M A M A N E E D S TO K N OW p .73

Eat Happy  HAPPY HEALTHY MUM

TV presenter Katie Piper has launched her latest project, a diet and fitness manual for mamas who want to look great and feel even better. Packed with tips and recipes created in collaboration with co-author Terri-Ann Nunns, it promises a straightforward return to body confidence. £39.99; thehealthyhappymumplan.co.uk

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Theaward awardwinning winning dreamgenii dreamgenii support pillow The pillow helps helps you you get getaa comfortable night’s night’s sleep by supporting comfortable supporting your your back, knees knees and growing bump back, bump

Available from leading nursery retailers Available from leading & nursery retailers & www.dreamgenii.com www.dreamgenii.com DEAMGENII.indd 1

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HE ALTH

Rub it in •MAMA MIO•

Want a baby belly like Khloe Kardashian?

Then you’ll need to slather on some of the award-winning Tummy Rub Butter from Mama Mio. Apparently it was one of the celeb’s products of choice while she was pregnant.

And who can blame her? It’s packed with organic oils and a Shea butter base that protects you from stretch marks, and boosts your body’s elasticity. £23.50; mamamio.com

mama’s

WELLN ES S N OTES The newest healthy snacks and solutions for mums and munchkins

SMOOTH SAILING

PILL POPPER

•SAINT COME•

• B A BY O N B OA R D •

Banish any hint of motion or travel sickness this summer with Saint Come’s Arömaspray Lemon Cedar. Lemon works to curb nausea while cedar relieves any stress and anxiety, making this the ideal (vegan and natural) travel companion. £11.99; saintcome.co.uk

A new multi-vitamin has arrived. It provides 200% of your recommended daily allowance of folic acid, plus 16 other vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy pregnancy, both for mother and baby. £14.99; myvitamins.com

Take a bite...

SAY CHEESE!

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he new Mini Cheesy Stars from Kiddylicious are ovenbaked and contain 40% real Gouda cheese, no artificial ingredients and are glutenand nut-free. What’s more, for every pack sold, 6p will be donated to Make-A-Wish UK. £2 (multi-pack);  ocado.com July 201 8

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6 of the best UNDER-100ML AND T R AV E L P R O D U C T S

SUKIN Hydrating Mist Toner, £3.95 (50ml); hollandandbarrett.com BEA SKINCARE Solar Defence SPF 30, £24 (50)ml; bea-skincare.com

PREVISE HydroFoam Rejuvenating Hyaluronic Moisturiser, £46 (50ml); harveynichols.com

LEE STAFFORD Coco Loco Jet Set: Coco Loco Travel Dryer, Mini Coco Loco Shampoo and Conditioner, and a rose-gold travel case, £29.99; argos.co.uk

In the Lines •Crayola Beauty•

r’s ito EdPick VALMONT The Storie Veneziane Collection fragrances, £173 (8.5ml); harrods.com

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BEAUT Y NOTES

Must-have travel packs, products for dry skin, and a way to save the planet…

MUSTELA Very High Protection Sun Lotion For Face, £11.50 (40ml); mustela.co.uk

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Remember when crayons were just for colouring? Not anymore, as the worldrenowned artists’ supplies company, Crayola, has branched out to beauty. Its new colourful make-up range includes 95 vegan, cruelty-free shades of lipsticks, eye palettes, highlighters and mascaras exclusive to ASOS. Just keep them away from the kids!). asos.com

absolutely-mama.co.uk

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welln es s BE AUT Y

HYDRATION STATION • Q U A N TA M B O TA N I K A •

We’re no strangers to dry skin at this time of year. That’s why skin therapist Nataliya Robinson has added a new lightweight Hydrating Gel to her Quantam Botanika skincare range.

It’s loaded with moisture-boosting and healing ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and manuka honey. £65; nataliyarobinson.co.uk

&BREATHE we love

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Wo r ds J E S S ICA S H A LT O UT

BABY SOFT •BIODERMA•

Bioderma has not just launched one, but three new products to its ABCDerm range for babies.

This includes the H20, the fi rst dermatological micellar water that’s compatible with babies’ skin.

Its gentle formula works for sensitive skin, leaving it super-soft and supple, and totally cleansed. £4 (100ml); bioderma-uk.com

SAVE THE BEES! •BURT’S BEES•

The strawberry lip balm by Burt’s Bees has been given a limited-edition makeover to fit in with its campaign – in collaboration with the British Beekeepers Association – to #BringBackTheBees.

Our buzzing little friends are disappearing – and they need your help. So, for every balm sold, 5,000 bee-friendly wildflower seeds will be planted. £3.99; ocado.com

Pack Your Bag Elemis

eauty brand Elemis has teamed up with British design house Lily and Lionel to create limited-edition Luxury Travel Collections. Inside the beautifully designed bag for ladies you’ll find everything from facial wash to make-up remover and pro-collagen marine cream. £65; elemis.com

B

Postnatal retreats for mums, dads and babies

appy-change, feed, nap, bottle-clean, washing, do it all again… and breathe. And that’s how this postnatal retreat was born! Created

by Clio Wood, this is a retreat like no other.

Slightly sceptical, I drove to Four Seasons Hampshire, baby and bags in tow. The Georgian manor house looks like something from Pride & Prejudice, and from the moment we arrived the service was excellent. Our room had a cot, teddy, baby bath soap and nappies. And at lunch, everything was perfectly prepared, with high chairs, baby food and Clio and Caroline on hand to help out.

On day one, we spent three hours in the studio covering the pelvic floor, Pilates and a high-intensity workout. Although a little out of practise, getting the chance to do some exercise felt great.

However, the best part for me came in the evening, where nannies arrived at our rooms ready to take over with the babies while we enjoyed a baby-free dinner.

Getting adult time with a newborn is so rare and this really did feel like a treat.

Day two was equally luxurious, including a delicious breakfast and more nanny time, while we relaxed at the spa and enjoyed a back massage. As I left, I definitely felt like I’d had the chance to… breathe.

Prices start from £495. andbreathepostnatal.com

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ooking with kids is a fun experience but, as every parent knows, it can escalate quickly from Instagram-worthy to dramatically wrong.

Here are five little hacks to get to the kitchen prepared and avoid tantrums for both little sous-chefs and chefs, followed by three recipes to start you off with…

D OU B LE TH E C L O C K

Pairing up with a little sous-chef inevitably means that you won’t get around as swiftly as you would by yourself. You will have to explain how to carry out tasks safely, you want them to understand the ingredients they’re using and you’ll probably have to stop them touching the hot oven. Just accept it, factor in a lot of extra time and don’t get discouraged: the more they cook with you the quicker and more confident they’ll become.

AC C E P T TH E M E S S

Cooking with kids is all about the fun, the learning experience and the tasty food – not the presentation! Your end result might not be as pretty as the picture on the recipe, but serve them up to Grandma and she won’t mind wonky cupcakes or smushed icing, as long as they are baked by loving little hands.

S U IT U P

In a chef uniform, of course! Build up a whole ritual that includes washing hands and dressing in your chef whites. Any washing machine-friendly garment will do, or even an old T-shirt of yours. If your little souschef gets passionate about cooking together, you can consider splurging a little and get matching aprons.

M A K E S PAC E

In the

Kitchen

The three ladies behind My Little Sous Chef show us how easy it is to get your kids involved in the cooking process – and enjoy it

A task like mixing dough or batter is something that most little sous-chefs can accomplish, but even the most disciplined helper will cause the odd splash or splatter from time to time. Give them a nice big bowl for mixing and, if you want to go the extra mile, use old newspapers to cover up surfaces.

G O C H I LD -FR E E

The ultimate hack. If your kid is acting up or is not interested in cooking, don’t force it.

Cooking with kids is meant to be a new and exciting game, so if the situation becomes stressful for both chef and little sous-chef, it’s not worth it anymore. Distract your little one with a toy or a colouring book and leave the actual cooking for another time.

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RECIPES

Pizza Muf f ins Hands-on time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Total time: 25 minutes Serves: 4

Ingredients:

4 x English muffins • 2 x tomatoes • 2 x eggs • 8 x slices of pepperoni • grated mozzarella • oregano • salt • olive oil

Directions: 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2 Boil the eggs for 8-10 minutes. Then run them under cold water, peel them and slice them about 4mm thick. 3 Cut the English muffins in half, toast them and place them on a lined baking tray. 4 Drizzle each with olive oil, then layer with slices of tomato, pepperoni, egg and grated mozzarella. 5 Sprinkle with oregano and salt. 6 Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese starts to melt.

Bean Tacos Hands-on time: 35 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes Total time: 40 minutes Serves: 4

Ta s k s f o r yo u r L i t t l e Sous Chef: 1 Peel the boiled eggs 2 Toast the English muffin halves 3 Place the muffin halves on a baking tray 4 Drizzle them with olive oil 5 Layer tomatoes, pepperoni and egg slices 6 Sprinkle the grated mozzarella, salt and oregano on top

125g plain flour • 60ml cold water • 400g canned red beans • 1 cup grated cheddar • 2 tomatoes • 1 cucumber • 1 avocado • 1 bell pepper • 60g lettuce • 2 tbsp olive oil • salt For the side: 2 avocados • 1 bunch coriander • 2 mild chillies • 2 tomatoes • 1 onion • juice of ½ lime

your hands and then roll them with a rolling pin to a 1mm thick. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle some flour over the rolling pin as well. 3 Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the tortillas for two minutes on each side. As soon as you remove each tortilla from the pan, fold it between two objects to give it a shell shape and leave it until it has cooled down.

If you prefer your tortillas soft and pliable, stack them on a plate and cover them with a wet cloth, so they won’t dry.

Directions:

For the filling

Ingredients:

For the dough

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Mix the flour, water and oil in a bowl with a pinch of salt. Use a wooden spoon to blend all the ingredients, and then start kneading until you get a smooth dough. Make a ball with the dough, wrap it in cling film and leave it to rest for 20 minutes. 2 Dust the work surface with flour, divide the dough into eight balls, flatten them between 1

1 Drain the canned beans. Wash the vegetables and cut them into cubes.

Shred the lettuce. 2 Mix all the vegetables in a bowl, add the beans and season with oil and salt. 3 Fill the tacos with the veggie mix and sprinkle with grated cheddar.

For the guacamole sauce 1 Peel the avocados, remove the stones and mash them in a bowl.

2 Cut the chillies in half, deseed and

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05/06/2018 14:32

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RECIPES

Fruit tarts Hands-on time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 60 minutes Serves: 8

I n g r e d i e n t s :

100g butter • 200g caster sugar • 300g plain flour • 1 egg • 1 tbsp vanilla extract • 400g custard • blueberries • strawberries • banana

D i r e c t i o n s : 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cut the softened butter into small cubes and put them into a bowl. 2 Add the sugar and mix with your hands until smooth. Add the egg and keep on mixing with your hands. Gradually add the flour and the vanilla extract.

Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then wrap it with cling fi lm and leave in the fridge for an hour.

3 Grease the tart cases with butter and lightly dust with flour. Roll out the pastry to line both the base and sides of the tart cases. It should be roughly 3mm thick. 4 Once the tart cases are lined, cover the pastry with baking paper and fi ll with baking beans or dried beans. Blind bake at 180°C for 15 mins in the upper third of the oven. Remove from the oven and allow to completely cool. Once cool, fi ll the tarts with the custard, decorate with fruit and dust with icing sugar.

chop them. Wash the tomatoes and cut them into cubes. Chop the onion and the coriander. 3 Add the chillies, coriander, tomatoes and onion to the mashed avocados and mix well. Add a little water and lime juice and mix with a spoon.

Ta s k s f o r yo u r L i t t l e Sous Chef: 1 Pour the flour into a bowl with the oil, salt and water and mix 2 Knead into a dough and make a ball 3 Divide into 8 balls and press them between your hands 4 Roll out the balls with a rolling pin 5 Spoon the veggie fi lling into the cooked tacos 6 Sprinkle with grated cheddar

My Little Sous Chef is the first parent/child tandem cookbook, designed to help children and parents have fun in the kitchen and create delicious dishes together. The pack comes with two books – one for ‘grown ups’ and one for kids. They are available in hardback from MyLittleSousChef.com priced £22

Ta s k s f o r yo u r L i t t l e S o u s C h e f : 1 Add the sugar to the butter and mix 2 Add the vanilla, egg and flour and knead 3 Roll out the pastry 4 Line the tart cases with the pastry 5 Fill the tarts with the custard 6 Decorate the tarts with fruit July 201 8

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TIPS

Our Morning Elixir can be added to foods to help boost iron, gentle plant fi bre and protein. It’s also great for breastfeeding, to keep mama’s energy and nutrient levels up!

Brainfoo d s :

TOP TIPS At birth, a baby’s brain weighs a mere 450g – yet it needs vast amounts of energy to thrive. Karen Newby advises on foods to fuel growing minds

 Eat healthy fats, such as omega 3 and 6. Omega 3 fat DHA plays a key role in development in early years.

It’s important for mental performance and aids in the growth of your developing baby’s brain and nervous system. It’s also produced in breast milk. Four specific kinds of fat (AA, DHA, EPA and DGLA) make up 20% of the brain – if breastfeeding, you should continue to eat oily fish (trout, salmon, sardines and mackerel – stay away from tuna).  Keeping the gut healthy is key to supporting brain function. Incorporate lots of gentle, plant-based fibre into your child’s diet, and be careful not to fi ll little tummies with bread, which is high in gluten (can be hard to digest) and low in nutrients.

 Boost children’s antioxidants, especially if they live in a city.

Plenty of brightly coloured fruits and vegetables encourage the trial of different tastes and colours.

Phytonutrients help plants to fend off bacteria and fungi – and help our little ones too!

 Up their protein, to support growth but also the development of neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers of the brain. Protein also gives kids a dripfeed of energy, which reduces blood-sugar lows linked to bouts of irritability and lapses in concentration.

KAREN NEWBY , MAMA OF THREE AND FOUNDER OF ALCHEMY SUPERBLENDS

 Avoid too much sugar and damaged fats – these are not a friend to the brain at any age.

Always read the label if buying premade weaning foods to see what the sugar content is. Even savoury baby food can be laced with hidden sugar! The current recommended daily allowance for four- to sixyear-olds is 19g – that’s five sugar cubes. Dried fruit gives a big sugar hit – they are easy to over-consume – so avoid where possible. alchemysuperblends.com @alchemysuperblends July 201 8

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Q&A

TASTE SUCCESS Meet Cat Gazzoli, the co-founder of baby food brand Piccolo W o r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T

T

buy them, then other mums out there must also be in the same boat. Obviously it has been more successful and exciting than I could have imagined in my wildest dreams – we have just celebrated our 2nd birthday but are already stocked in all the main supermarkets nationwide, we’re the fastest growing baby food brand in the country, and have been able to help parents out for every stage of the weaning journey, from first tastes to a more developed palate and snacks on the go. I work with a great team and we’re about to go to Malta to celebrate everything we’ve achieved in true Mediterranean style!

he Mediterranean approach to nutrition and life in general is what inspires the organic baby food company, Piccolo. Bright sunshine, colourful markets and families gathering around a big table to eat together – that’s what it’s all about for co-founder Cat Gazzoli.

After all, it’s how she grew up – enjoying a varied diet of fruit, veg, pulses and a little bit of meat. And it’s how she now feeds her own family and daughter, Juliet. As the company celebrates its second year and launches new products, we catch up with Cat to find out what else she has up her sleeve…

What’s new at Piccolo Foods?

A This year has been all about innovation at Casa Piccolo. We celebrated our 2nd birthday in April and wanted to mark it by introducing lots of new recipes to our Piccolo Pouch range, as well as launching meals for when your baby is ready for first textures and snacks for those hungry moments in between meals, too.

Q

Q What went into creating the new Piccolo Pots?

A We launched our Stage 3 Piccolo Pots after months of research, cooking and tasting. We wanted to offer parents a delicious and healthy option for when their little ones were ready to move on from purées, and so came up with the idea of split pots – one pot full of nutritious grains to introduce texture

and protein, and one pot filled with a vegpacked sauce. The two pots can be mixed together to make a yummy meal inspired by the Mediterranean, or given to little ones separately so they can try out finger foods and see exactly what they’re getting. By keeping the grains and the sauces separate, we’ve ensured the grains keep their texture and the nutrients are kept in the sauce.

I think there was a real gap in the market for something different and nutritious for little ones learning to chew and needing a bit more from their mealtimes, and the response we’ve had from parents shows how our pots are really helping them out.

Q Were you surprised at how fast and how well Piccolo took off initially?

A Because I’m a mum myself, I knew that the products I was looking to buy weren’t around – and I knew that if I wanted to

Q Giving back is a big part of your company’s philosophy. How have you chosen who you want to work with?

A We are committed to giving back at Piccolo and donate 10% of all our profits to charity every year. We also have our own charity, the Food Education Foundation, which we set up to help provide food education to families all over London (and hopefully further afield soon) who need some support and advice.

Our co-founder Alice is also touring Tesco stores around the country this summer with our Piccolo Roadshow, helping to give parents nationwide top tips and ideas for how to set their little one up with a healthy relationship with food. It’s so important to us to speak to mums and dads all over the country and hear what they need, and get to help them with any questions they have around weaning. It’s one of the best parts of the job.

What’s on your future agenda?

Keep doing more of what we’re doing, and even better.

Q A

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More than

TH E B LU ES Nearly half of mothers suffering from postnatal depression don’t get the proper care they need, and it seems to vary greatly depending on where you live. But is all that about to change?* Wo r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T Illustration PHIL COUZENS

ally was at a real low point when she decided to call her health visitor team in Lincolnshire. She had a five-month-old baby who just wouldn’t stop crying. She had started punching walls, even scratching her nails down her arms. She had nothing left to lose.

“So I called the health visitors up,” she tells Absolutely Mama. “I remember struggling to hold back the tears. I left a voice message saying I think I have postnatal depression (PND) and that I really need to talk. I left my number but no one called me back… When you’re in that state, that’s not good at all.”

There are a few reasons why Sally had left it so long before going to a doctor. Firstly, it had never occurred to her that she had PND. She, like many other women, had thought it a condition that only appears soon after giving birth. It was also her second baby, and she’d not had a perinatal mental health issue the first time around. On top of that, Sally had thought PND was about “feeling sad, depressed and not bonding with the baby,” she explains. “Not for me. Anger, frustration, guilt; they were the sort of over-arching emotions. I didn’t associate them with PND.” Eventually, Sally went to a GP who quickly diagnosed her with the condition. “He was very scientific about it. To have someone label it and give me a diagnosis was fantastic for me. That was a real turning point.”

While Sally decided to try both the therapy and medication her GP recommended, the diagnosis turned out to be enough to get her back on track (and the fact that her baby was sleeping again helped, too). In the end, she didn’t feel the need to take any of it, which

was just as well, because she never got a call back about the counselling either.

NOT THE ONLY ONE

L

ibby, who’s based in Yorkshire, has a similar story to Sally’s. “I struggled to cope from the day my little girl was born,” she recounts. “I was used to managing a team of people at work and always being ‘in control’, but nothing really prepares you for the total lack of control you have over a baby.”

Libby was very ill after the birth, so her husband had to do most of the childcare. She also had to start expressing despite the huge pressure she felt from society to continue breastfeeding. As the weeks continued, she began to feel more and more useless and a “burden” on her husband.

“I couldn’t understand why I was struggling so much as my little girl was a dream baby… I looked at other mums with their babies and thought I was the only one feeling this way.”

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MENTAL HE ALTH

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At her six-week check, the doctor didn’t give Libby much of a chance to discuss how she was feeling, instead focusing on the baby.

Later, a health visitor read Libby’s responses to a postnatal depression survey and was shocked. She was told she’d get more regular visits and support from now on. “I didn’t see a health visitor again until my daughter’s oneyear check. No one contacted me at all.”

More than two years on, and Libby has just finished a course of counselling (which she organised herself) and is finally feeling better. “It’s taken me all this time to share my experiences with my friends and I’ve been overwhelmed by their responses. Many of them said ‘I had no idea you suffered like this’. At first I couldn’t understand how they hadn’t seen what I’d been going through, but then I realised that I’d been putting on a brave face for others.

“It doesn’t matter what background you come from or how much money or help you have. It doesn’t even matter how ‘good’ your baby is perceived to be. Postnatal depression is indiscriminate and can affect anyone.”

A PREVALENT PROBLEM

M

ore than one in every 10 women suffers from postnatal depression within a year of giving birth, according to statistics from the NHS. Yet NCT research shows around half of new mothers’ mental health problems don’t get picked up.

Michelle, the group email manager at PANDAS (Pre and Post Natal Depression Advice and Support) Foundation UK, has recently noticed an increase in complaints

~

“ THE NEW DEVELOPMENTS ANNOUNCED WILL UNDOUBTEDLY MAKE ENGLAND THE WORLD LEADER IN MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR MOTHERS AND BABIES”

~

surrounding the support that GPs have given women and their families, especially when asking for advice on battling anxiety or when trying to conceive a second baby after suffering from PND the first time they gave birth. She says: “From my experience supporting women, it seems as though some GPs do not take them seriously. And at times, for these women, it feels like they are being brushed off.

“I believe that, in some cases, the reason so many women go without a follow-up check from their NHS/health visitor teams is that the NHS is overwhelmed with workload.

The teams are often struggling SALLY BUNKHAM, A FORMER PND with budget cuts, growing SUFFERER WHO’S NOW WORKING TO SMASH THE STIGMA caseloads and extreme pressure. This, in turn, in some cases, may lead to many vulnerable people going without the support out its second wave of community perinatal and care that they need and want.” services to underserved parts of the NCT’s Research and Evaluation Manager, country, aiming to eventually have full Agnes Hann, has similar concerns. “We’ve geographical coverage. heard positive and negative stories from Considering that in 2014 it was estimated women who live in different parts of the that only 3% of the country had good access country,” she tells Absolutely Mama. “Some to perinatal mental health care, this is clearly mothers have received incredible support a much-anticipated move. It’s also a move from health professionals while others have that forms part of a “package of measures”, not been supported nearly as well as they worth a total of £365 million by 2021, to make should have been. sure at least 30,000 more women can access “In terms of what support is available, evidence-based treatment closer to home GPs can provide information and advice through these community services, as well to mothers themselves, refer them to as inpatient and baby units. psychological therapies or counselling Dr Alain Gregoire, Chair of the Maternal services, or prescribe medication. Women Mental Health Alliance, said: “In over 30 in some parts of the country have access to years working for the NHS I have never specialist perinatal counselling services and seen any national programme produce Mother and Baby units; however, specialist such a rapid, effective and widespread community perinatal mental health transformation in services. These new, provision is highly variable across the UK – top-quality services have led directly some areas are much better than others.” to life-saving improvements in care for But is that all about to change? women and babies that will hugely reduce immediate and long-term suffering. The new developments announced… in England look THE ROAD AHEAD set to eliminate a long-standing and serious his May, NHS England confirmed postcode lottery, and will undoubtedly make new and expectant mums will be England the world leader in mental health able to access specialist perinatal care for mothers and babies.” mental health community services Abigail Wood, Head of Campaigns at in every part of the country by April next NCT, believes there’s more work to be done, year. It is now spending £23 million rolling

T

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however. “While it’s all well and good to improve specialist services, we need more focus on the recognition of mental health issues in the first place. More money going into early identification would mean fewer mothers suffering with mental health problems and needing specialist care further down the line.

“The charity’s #HiddenHalf campaign is calling for extra funding for the six-week postnatal check-up to reduce the number of new mums who don’t get diagnosed and treated properly.”

THE OTHER SIDE

O

f course, not every woman’s experience with postnatal depression has been as negative as Sally’s and Libby’s. For instance, Cumbria-based Justine, who was over 40 years old when she had her first daughter, only has praise for her health visitor team. “In fairness, I was classed as high risk throughout my pregnancy due to my age,” she tells us. “So my personal contact was high with the individuals.”

But this also meant that the risks of delivering at an older age, and the higher prevalence of sudden infant death syndrome, came up a lot. “When poor India came along I was so scared of losing her!”

When her daughter was rushed to the hospital at just three days old, things only got worse for Justine. “I think that’s when I began to think something was wrong and that I didn’t just have the baby blues.

I was crying all the time. I couldn’t keep it together, I couldn’t hold conversations.” At this point, Justine’s health visitor team came to the rescue.

“Instead of going to a clinic, they would come and do a home visit to reduce my stress.” Treatment was swiftly discussed and Justine decided to take a low-dose medication and had monthly follow-up appointments to chat. This all led to her quick recovery.

Meanwhile, in Gloucestershire, Lindsay had a similarly positive experience, although her PND – like Sally’s – was delayed. “My problems started about four months in, so the regular health visitor visits had stopped at that time.” Lindsay was crying every day and felt truly exhausted, as her baby wasn’t sleeping. To top it off, she was struggling with breastfeeding. “It all just crept up on me,”

#HiddenHalf Want to help spread the word about postnatal depression? Get involved with this ongoing campaign…

MENTAL HE ALTH

referred to a service that offers cognitive behavioural therapy support over the phone, and I’m currently at the beginning of that.”

SMASHING THE STIGMA

N

CT, the UK’s largest charity for parents, is demanding better six-week postnatal check-ups through its #HiddenHalf campaign, so that all new mothers with a mental health problem can access the treatment available.

Around half of new mothers’ mental health problems don’t get picked up, according to an NCT survey, and many of these new mothers said they were too embarrassed or afraid of judgement to seek help. A whopping 95% of mothers who had a mental health problem said this had had an impact on their ability to cope as a mother or on their family.

Meanwhile, eight in 10 women felt their issue had impacted on their relationship with their partner, while more than four in 10 said it had affected their ability to bond with their baby. Four in 10 also thought these emotional problems had affected their relationship with their other children, too.

But there is hope, as 82% of new mothers surveyed who had been treated said the treatment – whether that was counselling, medication, online therapy or peer support – had helped.

So, let’s make a difference. Join Absolutely Mama in supporting this campaign by visiting nct.org.uk/hiddenhalf to find out what you can do to help.

she admits. So she quickly decided to call the health visitors.

“They had staffing changes and I didn’t have an assigned health visitor at the time, and the next team meeting wasn’t for a few days, but the kind lady who answered the phone could tell I was desperate and needed help so she came out to see me that day.

“She was great at listening and then telling me the options for support and working out a plan with me. She advised I see a doctor.

My doctor was amazing.” Lindsay declined medication and decided to start expressing her milk and allowing someone else to feed, which helped. “My doctor phoned me once a week to check in on me until I decided I no longer needed that help. My health visitor visited me weekly and provided a listening service... Instead of counselling I’ve been

E

ducation and awareness is key to making sure new mothers – and indeed other family members – do not suffer unnecessarily. But we still have a way to go in that regard.

“Unfortunately, there is still a lot of stigma and discrimination around mental health in general,” says NCT’s Agnes Hann. “Perinatal mental health problems, including postnatal depression, are no exception.

“As awareness of maternal mental health problems increases, stigma will hopefully reduce. That’s why it’s so important to talk about these issues, and normalise the range of experiences women may have during pregnancy and after having a baby.”

Sally agrees. In fact, following her personal experiences with PND, she went on to set up her own company, Mum’s Back (mumsback.com), which provides luxury hamper gifts for new mums. Through this, she also aims to raise as much awareness of perinatal mental health issues as possible, and £1 from every hamper sold goes to PANDAS Foundation UK. “I just think it’s so common,” she says. “It’s all about breaking the stigma, encouraging people to have the confidence to talk about it, and to understand that this sort of rhetoric – it’s such a ‘magical time’ and to ‘cherish every moment’ – is being rammed down your throat so that when it doesn’t feel like that you feel guilty, you feel ashamed, you feel like you’re a crap mum, and you shouldn’t be made to feel like that.”

While the NHS is making a huge effort to combat such issues, it’s also up to us to do our part as well. We can do this by opening up about our personal experiences, by listening to our friends and family, and – most importantly – by not perpetuating a stigma that should not still exist in 2018.

If you or someone you know might be suffering from a perinatal mental health issue, please seek help from your GP immediately. For more information on postnatal depression, also visit nct.org.uk and pandasfoundation.org.uk * Some names in this story have been changed to protect the privacy of participants.

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Better sleep, naturally.

Support your little one’s bedtime routine with a relaxing blend of magnesium, lavender and chamomile to aid restful sleep.

Available in all good health stores, pharmacies and online at www.betteryou.com

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A R O O M O F O N E ’ S OW N : T H E B E N E F I T S O F G A R D E N O F F I C E S p . 8 4

Space Invaders • GESTALTEN •

Page upon page of amazing visual inspiration awaits in this new book from Gestalten. Little Big Rooms offers photo tours of homes that succeed in integrating children’s needs (which as we know, aren’t always conducive to calm and order) into spaces that are nonetheless beautifully composed for adult enjoyment. £40; shop.gestalten.com

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5 of the best LIGHTING IDEAS

1

2

mama’s

N UR SERY NOTES Colour your own play mat and an anti-allergy mattress for baby

Rest Easy •Simba•

3 4 5

The Simba Cot range is sympathetic to the needs of a growing baby, with mattresses that promote thermoregulation, are free from harmful toxins and feature an anti-allergy sleep surface. simbasleep.com

1. Farg and Form Paper Lamp Shade, £25; nubie.co.uk 2. Fermob Balad Nomad Lamp, £62; en.smallable.com 3. Numero 74 Star Lamp, £61; en.smallable.com 4. Sunnylife Neon Pineapple Lamp, £26; en.smallable.com 5. Fermliving Braided Lampshade in Grey, £59; nubie.co.uk

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NURSERIES

COLOUR WHEEL

d Branus c o F

•Omy•

Colouring-in kings Omy have turned their talents to this toy bag. Not only can you colour in the boldly graphic designs, it also unfurls into a circular play mat.

Multi-purpose and creatively inspiring, we’re big fans. £33; en.smallable.com

Flexa DREAM WEAVER

E

Wo r ds HE L E N BA RO N

•Olli Ella•

A beautifully simple idea, this shallow woven basket functions as a changing mat until your little one is out of nappies – after which it can be used as anything from toy storage to a floral display. £55; olliella.com

DOLLY GOOD •Camomile London x Severina Kids •

These limited edition dolls by artisan brand Severina have been created in collaboration with linen company Camomile London, and feature clothing made from the latter’s signature fabrics. Sweet. €97.50 each; severinakids.com

Give Me Space Lorena Canal

udding explorers will love this cosmic carpet, which features rockets, planets and stars in a cool monochrome colourway. Parents, meanwhile, will love that it’s washable – and thus sure to be longer-lasting. £250 nubie.co.uk

B

very now and then a brand comes along that does what they do so perfectly, you can’t help but desire every item they make. Flexa is one such brand.

Founded in 1972 in Denmark, Flexa specialises in children’s furniture in sturdy yet minimal style – but it’s their new toy range that has really caught our eye (and imagination).

Centred around a wooden shop, kitchen and workbench, each crafted from birch, plywood and MDF, the pieces are painted in muted shades of sage, pigeon-blue and rosebud, and feature a range of matching accessories to help little ones make the most when playing pretend.

Wooden groceries, a dinky cash register and a construction set that can actually be assembled in hundreds of different configurations will keep kids busy and creative for hours on end. And there are even colour-coded aprons for budding cooks, craftsmen and shopkeepers.

Retro charm in a rigorously designed modern package, we’ve already earmarked one of the sets for a centrepiece birthday or Christmas gift. Take a look, and we’re pretty sure you will too... From £24

nubie.co.uk

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A ROOM OF ONE’S OWN Need more space? Somewhere to be alone? Glorified garden sheds are the solution of choice for Londoners.

Mama investigates...

Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

W

ho doesn’t love the idea of sitting in their own miniature house in the garden? It’s not just men in their sheds – there are writers in garden offices, designers in garden studios, party people in private garden speakeasys, crafty types in workshops and even radio presenters broadcasting from their very own gardens, all over London. A room of one’s own can take the form of a grown-up wendy house, a hightech soundproofed recording studio or a green-roofed eco shack. All these things are very possible in your own tiny patch of green.

Further benefits are obvious. The extra space might mean you don’t have to move house. You can add value to your home for less than the price of an extension. If you are a business, it’s tax-deductible and can save you money on rent and the commute. Quite simply, most people seem to love being in a shed on their own.

LONDON GARDEN STUDIOS

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GARDENS

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GARDENS

THE RUG ROOM

TURNER ARCHITECTS' GARDEN LIBRARY

Budgets can be anything from £8,000 to £40,000. You could spend even more if you really tried, depending on size and finish. If you want oak panelling, lovely floorboards and old French shutters you can creep up to the higher figure.

Marc Salmon of London Garden Studios built a garden studio for ceramicist Lou Rota; his other projects have included a 70-square metre studio that has a courtyard zen garden in the middle.

Architect Nic Howett built the award-winning Rug Room for a client who makes rag rugs. It is a modest corten steel-clad plywood structure at the end of a narrow garden facing both the rear of an early Victorian crescent and a secret garden. With apertures onlooking both, it is a place to work, read, and make rugs.

Offset from the garden’s end, with entrance doors to one side and rear, the building’s angled (double layer) plywood structure is sleeved inside corten steel. With a work table that faces the house and lined in shelves full of fabrics and books, all of these elements help brace and support the structure. The Rug Room, although new, feels familiar, its age indeterminable, providing a timeless sense of place.

Turner Architects’ Garden Library in Camberwell was shortlisted for the Best New Home

~

Improvement Project in London last year. It was devised to be a study, spare room and storage for a growing family, where an extension to their flat was prohibitively complex. The deliberately simple, lightweight structure creates a warm and friendly feel for a quintessentially family addition.

In Chiswick, award-winning JLB Property Developments designed and built a garden room in a small backyard plot that adds valuable extra space to the terraced house. The new room can be used for a variety of purposes and it utilises an otherwise little-used outdoor area.

Garden rooms are set to grow in popularity, whether in tightly packed urban spaces or in large country gardens.

They’re a good investment and they’re a joy to behold – what’s not to like?

“QUITE SIMPLY, MOST PEOPLE SEEM TO LOVE BEING IN A SHED ON THEIR OWN”

~

JLBPROPERTYDEVELOPMENTS.COM

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TRUST Incognito

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incognito spray and roll-on are 100% natural and are safe for children and babies from 3 months old. ®

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Our suncream is suitable for children 2 years and older.

www.lessmosquito.com *Clinically tested for 5 hours or more on Aedes aegypti mosquitoes which can carry Chikungunya, dengue & Zika. Also clinically proven to protect against malaria in conjunction with sleeping under an impregnated mosquito bed net. Use insect repellent safely. Always read the label and product information.

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T R AV E L N E WS F R O M A R O U N D T H E WO R LD p . 91 • FA M I LY- F R I E N D LY V I E T N A M p . 9 2 CO R N WA LL S P EC I A L : E X P LO R I N G T H E B E ST O F T H E W E ST CO U N T RY p . 9 6

Collector’s Item • LE COLLECTIONIST•

Is this the travel site of your dreams? Le Collectionist specialises in exceptional villas for a unique travel experience – think supremely luxurious destinations that let you immerse yourself in local life while enjoying high design and creature comforts. Pictured: Villa Tulum, La CroixValmer, St. Tropez lecollectionist.com

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A child’s memories last forever, and the same can be said of their skin!

FREZYDERM introduces three products, for the three different stages of your child’s skin – Baby, Infant, and Kids – offering broad spectrum sun protection, with lightweight textures that can be easily applied and that are specially designed for the sensitive skin of your little one.

Give their skin the protection it deserves this summer with FREZYDERM’s Sun Care Range.

Available online and at local independent pharmacies

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escapes

INSPIRATIONS

Under the Pines •Seven Pines Ibiza•

Lagoon, garden, bay or cliff ? Rooms with a view are a specialty at this beautiful Ibizan resort which opened just in time for the summer season.

Mixing modern minimalism with maximum luxury it’s well-suited for families with slightly older children.

7pines.com

mama’s

TR AVEL N OTES

SEVEN PINES RESORT, IBIZA

or’s Editick P

Luxury stays at home and abroad and a trio of Greek island getaways

COUNTY LINE

TAKE FLIGHT

•Luxury Cotswold Rentals•

•Mamas & Papas•

This app gives you direct access to the fi nest country homes, character cottages and manor houses. The company is owned by the owners themselves, so the concierge service is seriously well informed on each area. luxurycotswoldrentals.co.uk

Clever dual purpose means this bunny backpack gives kids a sense of independence by allowing them to carry their own stuff when you travel – while featuring detachable reins so you can keep them close. £25; mamasandpapas.com

3 GREEK ISLAND ESCAPES Daios Cove

Ikos Dassia

Marbello Nido (Adults Only)

CRETE

CORFU

CORFU

This five-star hillside beach resort has just added a rustic-luxe beach restaurant and lounge to its already impressive offering, meaning you can dine in style while listening to chillout DJs. The kids’ club should keep littles busy while you unwind.

Set aside any lingering doubts you have about “all-inclusive” holidays.

Ikos resorts provide a high-end spin on the concept, with chic hotels, extensive facilities and kids’ clubs to boot. The new Ikos Dassia in Corfu exemplifies the approach.

One for the babymoon – or any time you get free of the little ones – this chic hotel nestles on a Corfu hillside (which is appropriate, given “nido” is Greek for nest) and boasts villas with private pools or whirlpools, plus extravagant sea views.

daioscovecrete.com

ikosresorts.com

marbellanido.gr

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THE PROPERTY HAS NOT ONE BUT THREE CASCADING INFINITY-EDGED POOLS

Very

Vietnam

A magical family adventure awaits at the recently revamped Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai in Hoi An, Vietnam W o r d s K AT Y G I L L E T T

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THE HOTEL PROVIDES PHENOMENAL FEASTS

I

lie back, cocooned in my bespoke Harrison AntiGravity Hammock that dangles from an outdoor pavilion during a session of aerial yoga at the Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An. All I can hear is a cacophony of cicadas and the soothing voice of our instructor, telling us to breathe deeply in and out, allowing our stress to dissipate.

After a few days at the resort I can’t say I have much tension left, but I play along, embracing the warm weather, the smells of freshly cut grass, and this rare moment to truly tap out and connect with myself.

London feels as though it’s a world away.

From the moment you drive through this truly phenomenal hotel’s gates, a sense of drama and seclusion suck you in.

While the all-villa resort is decidedly modern and luxurious, every turn reveals an element of deep-rooted Vietnamese tradition. The philosophies behind The Heart

of the Earth Spa, with its lotus pond and nightly floating-candle rituals, are inspired by renowned Vietnamese Zen master and peacemaker Th ich Nhat Hanh. Elsewhere, nestled amid the hotel’s abundant palm trees, you’ll fi nd the perfectly preserved Thanh Hoang Temple, where local fishermen once worshipped. Meanwhile, every one of the 100 gorgeous villas has been thoughtfully built with phong thuy (feng shui) principles in mind.

The fantastic Four Seasons service, stunning setting and hotel’s busy schedule of complimentary activities makes it very easy to stay put for your entire stay. On one morning, we get up bright and early to join in on a bike ride, whizzing past nearby lush paddy fields, traditional temples and local residences. Later that evening, we gather with other hotel guests to witness the nightly candle-lighting ceremony that takes place around one of the property’s dramatic fountains, which stretches out towards the sea. Another night leads us to the spa, where the air is fi lled with the sounds of crystal singing bowls and we’re asked to leave our wishes in a floating candle, which we release onto the RELAX AT THE STUNNING lotus pond. Coconut HEART OF THE EARTH SPA cutting and conical hat making are other skills we could have learned on-site, had we more time. But you just cannot go to Hoi An, a former port city on Vietnam’s central coast, and miss the chance to explore the local area, too.

Luckily, our class at the on-site cooking academy – in which we learn how to make four traditional dishes – gives us a chance to expand our horizons.

~

“ T H E P H I LOSO P HI ES B E HI N D T H E HE A RT O F T H E E A RT H SPA W E R E I N SP I R E D

BY R E N OWN E D V I E T N A M ESE Z E N M A ST E R A N D P E ACE M A K E R T HI CH N H AT HA N H”

After a tour of the hotel’s own farm, we take a trip into the Ancient Town of Hoi An, where we wander through the food markets and are introduced to more local delicacies. We admire the architecture, which has clear French and Chinese influence, and soak in the hustle and bustle, and strong smells, of the traditional marketplace. On the go, we pick up a bánh mì (a must-try Vietnamese sandwich we’re still dreaming of), have a taste of durian (it’s not as bad as it smells), and sip on some tasty local iced coffee (AKA “rocket fuel”).

The next day sees us take a one-hour bus journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son, a cluster of Hindu temples that sprung up between the fourth and 13th centuries. Th is dramatic area is located within an elevated geological basin surrounded by a ring of mountains, and was the religious and political capital of the old Champa Kingdom. The experience is almost ethereal; recounted stories of past kings and queens dwelling in these tiny temples are brought to life as we make our way through the intricately carved ruins.

On another day we take a leisurely boat ride over to Chàm Islands, where white sands, clear waters and souvenir shopping opportunities await. In the past couple of

~

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Flexible jobs for ambitious women

Time to reconnect with your professional self?

Find a flexible job with Mothers & Careers job board

www.mothersandcareers.com

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Family Paradise Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An is a haven for mums, dads and children. Here are five reasons why…

FA M I LY V I L L AG E S

FOUR SEASON’S NIGHTLY CANDLE-LIGHTING RITUAL

decades this area has become a hotspot for tourists, but the charm of Chàm is not lost.

Skilled local craftspeople can still be seen outside their homes creating traditional wares from surrounding natural materials, showing us a much simpler side to life than we’re used to in London. The only downside we see is that a lack of education has led to local fishermen depleting the ocean’s stocks, and we only spot a handful of fish on one of our snorkelling trips in a nearby cove.

In between every activity and excursion we take, we get the opportunity to taste an array of vibrant local dishes (and all dietary requirements are catered for, thanks to that

~

EXPLORE THE FASCINATING ANCIENT TOWN OF HOI AN

outstanding Four Seasons service). From the traditional bánh mì sandwich I mentioned earlier to the crispy rice flour pancakes (a clear holiday favourite) and fresh seafood galore, every dish we try is as memorable as the last. We eat in hole-in-the-wall-style eateries on the newer side of Hoi An, sample freshly prepared salads and seafood dishes at the beautiful restaurants in our hotel, and even enjoy a beachside feast after working up an appetite while snorkelling. Every meal is an occasion, an excuse to try something new and revel in the expertly balanced sweet, sour and spicy flavours.

Back at the hotel, I indulge in the Nam Hai Earth Song, a 150-minute signature spa treatment that takes place in your own spacious, standalone room.

I’m rubbed down with a handmade scrub made using herbs from the hotel’s farm and then allowed to soak in a petal- and lemongrass-strewn bath while I gaze out of the French windows onto that picture-perfect lotus pond, inches away.

A 90-minute massage follows, and soothing, vibrational sounds of singing bowls then lull me into a dreamless sleep as any lingering remnants of tension simply melt away.

“ R ECOUN T ED STO R I ES OF PA ST KI N G S A N D QUEEN S DW EL L I N G I N T H ES E T I N Y T E M P L ES A R E BR OUG H T TO L I FE A S W E M A K E OUR WAY T H R O U G H T H E I NT R I CAT E LY CA RV ED RU I N S”

~

fourseasons.com/hoian

 Newly extended, 104-square-metre Family Villas contain a separate en-suite children’s room complete with sofa bed, TV and games console. For mum and dad, there’s a king size bed and bathing area enclosed in gossamer drapes set on a raised central platform back in the main room. And everyone will enjoy the private garden and outdoor rain shower.

THE CHUON CHUON KIDS CLUB

 The Chuon Chuon (“Dragonfly”) Kids’ Club sits in a standalone building in the hotel grounds and boasts its own little swimming pool, plus multiple indoor and outdoor play areas. There’s a programme of daily-changing activities for children aged four to 12, which run for free from 9am to 5pm. It’s handy to note you can also book private babysitters with 24 hours’ notice at a nominal fee.

THE NA M HAI JUNIOR C O O K I N G ACA D E M Y

 At the Nam Hai Cooking Academy kids can learn everything from rice paper rolling to chocolate-making. You can also book a Family Fun Cooking Academy Experience, so you can make a mess together.

THE HEA RT OF THE E A R T H S PA

 The Heart of the Earth Spa caters to kids with treatments such as the 30-minute Whispering Earth Sound Immersion. Or you might want to book the 90-minute Heart of the Earth Family Ritual, a bonding session for up to four that includes massages, a bathing ritual and crystal sound immersion.

FA M I LY PAC K AG E

 The special Dragonfly Family Package includes luxurious villa accommodation for a minimum of three nights; daily buffet breakfasts; round-trip transfers from and to Da Nang International Airport; a Family Fun Cooking Academy Experience; Heart of the Earth Family Ritual; two hours of private babysitting; free access to the kids’ club for children aged four to 12; and a surprise arrival treat for children.

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WAY OUT WEST Sandy beaches, romantic ruins and fantastic food – what’s not to love about Cornwall? Explore the West Country from these family-friendly hotels Wo r d s PE N D L E H A R T E & C H A R L O T T E K E W L E Y

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GETAWAYS

The Nare South Cornwall

T H E LO C AT I O N

If Cornwall’s north coast is all about surf, the south coast is all about beauty. The insanely pretty village of Veryan on the Roseland peninsula, near beautiful St Mawes, is green and lush with exotic-looking fauna. The Nare is brilliantly located directly on Carne Beach, a vast expanse of sand and sea that’s picture-book perfect. The Nare is a quirky and characterful privately owned hotel with a lot of personality. Owner Toby Ashworth is on-hand to welcome guests in person, while every inch of wall space is taken over by his mother’s extensive and diverse collection of art.

~

THE NARE IS LOCAT E D ON CA R N E B E ACH , A VAST E X PAN S E OF SAN D AN D S E A T H AT ’S P I CT U R EB OOK P E R F ECT

~

THE ROOMS

Our family room has French windows on two sides allowing us to step directly into the gardens and the beach beyond. The view is stunning.

The children sleep in a cosy cabin at the back; we have a seating area, a hugely comfortable bed and a spacious bathroom.

THE FOOD

Afternoon tea is an institution here.

It’s served daily on the dot at 4pm with a spread of cakes and scones (it’s almost a requirement that you eat at least two). There are two restaurants, one formal and the other more casual – food is high-class hotel fare.

W H AT TO D O

As well as the beach, there are indoor and outdoor pools and a tennis court

too. Resident artist Jeanni is on-hand with art classes for all levels – we spent a happy morning learning to paint seascapes in acrylic and came away with new-found skills. But the best activity here is the espionage adventure. Ashworth’s enthusiasm for an elaborate scheme that invites guests to follow a series of clues – including a trip to St Mawes castle in his boat, the Alice Rose – is infectious, and we spend a happy afternoon deciphering codes and hunting for information, all of it leading to the discovery of a Russian mole among the hotel staff.

Sea-view double rooms at The Nare start at £560 per night during the summer season. n arehotel.co.uk July 201 8

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Baby & Toddler Breaks Cornwall Baby &in Toddler Breaks in Cornwall

Crèche

2-room family suites

Warm pools

Crèche

2-room family suites

Warm pools

01637 872864

Porth, Cornwall TR7 3LX

01637 872864 www.sandsresort.co.uk

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travel U K

~ T H E F OOD AT T H E

R OS EVI N E I S V E RY G OOD. SO G OOD, I N FACT, T H AT T H E R E’S N O R E A L N E E D TO E AT E L S EW H E R E

~

The Rosevine

The Roseland Peninsula

T H E H OT E L

Also known as “the big house by the sea”, the Rosevine is a home away from home, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere and friendly, personable staff. Located on the south coast of Cornwall, close to St Mawes and Truro and within a few minutes walk of a beautiful sandy beach, it’s a boutique apart-hotel made up of 15 apartments and a four-bedroom self-catering house. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and with a swimming pool and Michelin Guide restaurant on-site, it’s the ultimate in casual luxury. And it’s dog-friendly to boot!

GETAWAYS

FOR KIDS

Super child-friendly yet not overwhelmingly so, the Rosevine has family holidays covered. There’s a playroom complete with TV and DVD player, a climbing frame and slide in the garden as well as a chest of outdoor toys, a football net and ping pong table. Then, of course, there’s the indoor swimming pool, in which we spent our mornings. A range of baby and children’s equipment is available to borrow and the children’s menus are served from 5.30pm.

located in a wooden hut just off the beach on a National Trust cliff path.

The hut serves delicious food and drinks from local suppliers – Cornish pasties, sausage rolls, homemade cake and specials served in recyclable lunch boxes. It’s one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets and a must-visit spot if you’re in the area.

THE FOOD

The food at The Rosevine is very good.

So good, in fact, that there’s no real need to eat elsewhere (bar a couple of visits to the Hidden Hut). The hotel serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner in its intimate, informal restaurant. The dinner was among the best we’ve eaten in years – local produce, a modern menu, tasty food. There was a brilliant kids’ menu too – not just the usual pasta and chips options.

F O R A D U LT S

As well as a playroom there’s a separate adult lounge (adjoining the playroom, so your little ones are always within earshot) for relaxing in, complete with log-burner for cooler days. The swimming pool is exclusively for adult use between 7-8pm and, though there’s no spa, there is a treatment menu – allowing you to book indulgences to your room in advance.

T H I N G S TO D O

Take a short walk along the coastal path from The Rosevine to the nearby village of Portscatho for a potter around and a drink in the local pub, or drive over to the pretty coastal village of St Mawes, check out the castle then hop on a ferry for the 20-minute journey to Falmouth.

T H E B E AC H

A stone’s throw from the hotel is Porthcurnick beach, an idyllic sandy spot that is perfect for sunbathing, play, dog walks and exploring rock pools. It’s also the home of the Hidden Hut, a secluded but always-busy café

A family apartment on a room-only board basis at The Rosevine costs from £119 per night. Minimum stay 4 nights during July and August. rosevine.co.uk July 201 8

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resources A S K T H E E X P E R T S p10 4 • N U R S E RY LI ST I N G S p1 1 2 • TA LK I N G H E A D p1 14

Sweet Dreams •THE GRO COMPANY•

Whether you’re at home or in a new environment, the Gro Anywhere Blackout Blind will help your little get to sleep. It’s easy to carry and can be put in place simply to block out any light so your baby has a soothing, dark atmosphere to snooze sweetly in. Goodbye summer holiday jetlag! £29.99; gro-store.com

July 201 8 | 1 01

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Jodi FORSTERMOLSTAD

Specialist Women's Health Physio at Six Physio gives advice on addressing diastasis rectus, or abdominal separation, also known as “Mummy Tummy” after baby. sixphysio.com

Ask the

EXPERTS Q

&

A

Parenting professionals and leading entrepreneurs answer some of your most pressing questions 1 02

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Q Help! I just had a baby, but now I want my belly back. What do I do?

A Th is is a common complaint. A natural consequence of pregnancy is that the abdominal muscles and connective tissues stretch to make room for your growing baby. In about 30% of pregnant women, a diastasis rectus occurs. Th is is when the abdominal muscles and the linea alba, a connective tissue, which connects the right and left abdominal muscles, becomes overly stretched. Th is results in the abdominal muscles moving away from the midline, leaving a gap of varying widths. It can be a distressing consequence of childbirth and might contribute to back pain, pelvic pain, or urinary incontinence.

In most women, the separation heals on its own. The fi rst eight weeks postpartum are a critical time for healing, so make sure you: • Practice good postural habits • Do pelvic floor (Kegal) exercises • Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby • Avoid traditional sit-ups • Try temporary supports, known as binders or braces • After your six-week check with, start working on core strength with a specialised personal trainer or postnatal Pilates or yoga class At eight weeks postpartum, if you still notice a bulging, separation or a soft gap between the abdominals it’s unlikely to change without a core muscle training programme. As part of a full Postnatal Body Check, a Women’s Health Physio can go through specific exercises best for you to start with and provide a safe progression.

absolutely-mama.co.uk

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reso urces ASK

Nicole HASTIE

Nicole Hastie is a Carrying Consultant and Director of Kangaroo Care UK. She is passionate about helping parents learn the benefits of skin-to-skin contact with their babies. vija-design.co.uk Q Why is skin-to-skin contact so important for my baby?

A Newborn babies need an intense amount of care in their early days. They rely on their parents for food, warmth, security and wellbeing. These essential needs can be met in a way that is both rewarding and relaxing for parent and baby through skin-to-skin contact.

Using a wrap or kangaroo care top can make it easier to stay warm and secure during skin-to-skin contact.

When you hold your baby on your chest their whole nervous

T HE EXPERTS

system responds with an increase in oxytocin. Your own body (mum’s and dad’s) will also release oxytocin, and for breastfeeding mums this increases levels of prolactin, which helps establish your breast milk supply. Oxytocin is known as the “love” hormone. It ensures a sense of wellbeing, deepens feelings of attachment and lowers stress levels in both parent and baby.

Skin-to-skin contact helps your baby regulate their breathing and keep warm. This can enhance growth, as they are not having to use as many calories to maintain body temperature and respiration rates. It also promotes deep sleep, which is essential for early cognitive development. These benefits are known to have a long-lasting impact.

“SKIN-TO-SKIN CONTACT INCREASES THE RELEASE OF OXYTOCIN, ALSO KNOWN AS THE ‘LOVE’ HORMONE, IN BABY AND PARENTS”

Lianne BERTELLI

The Communications Manager for Dr Brown’s Anti-Colic Baby Bottles explains two major problems associated with most traditional baby bottles – air and vacuum. drbrowns.co.uk Q What is the difference between a vented and traditional non-vented baby bottle? I get very confused!

A Traditional or restricted vented bottles tend to develop vacuums because babies have to suck progressively harder on the one hole in the bottle to obtain the liquid.

Th is causes teat collapse and baby has to stop feeding. Air enters the bottle when the teat reinflates and this is subsequently ingested and this can result in colicky symptoms.

Seventy-eight per cent of healthcare professionals agree that the most common causes of colic in young babies are through digestive or feeding problems, including swallowing air.

The unique Dr Brown’s internal vent eliminates the vacuum and air bubbles in the feed, thus helping to reduce colic and burping, which has been clinically proven to help reduce windy colic, and is the number one choice of UK health professionals for the relief of colicky symptoms.

“HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS AGREE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF COLIC ARE DIGESTIVE OR FEEDING PROBLEMS, INCLUDING SWALLOWING AIR”

July 201 8

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Heather MORRIS

Heather Morris is a Registered General Nurse and state-certified Midwife. She is also mum to Freddy, Harry and Jack. metanium.co.uk Q What’s the best way to treat nappy rash?

A No matter how careful you are, most babies are likely to get nappy rash at some time. Nappy rash is usually mild and can be managed with a good skincare routine and a barrier ointment. Taking care of your baby’s delicate skin is essential in treating it.

These simple steps will help: • Lie your baby on a towel and leave your baby’s nappy off as often as you can, to let fresh air get to the skin.

Ruth ALLAN

(BSc, MSc) is a Registered Associate Nutritionist at The Kensington Wing chelwest.nhs.uk Q Is there anything that will help with my morning sickness?

A Around 75-80% of women will experience nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. It is usually limited to the fi rst trimester and the early stages of the second trimester.

It's good to remember that this is a natural mechanism and it has been theorised that it may be to help prevent the ingestion of foods which could harm your baby. Try increasing your intake of ginger and Vitamin B6, found in wholegrain cereals, most vegetables and eggs. Eat little and often- an empty stomach can increase

1 04

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• Change wet or soiled nappies as soon as possible.

• Clean the nappy area thoroughly using plain water or alcohol and fragrance-free wipes.

• Don’t use talcum powder, as it contains ingredients that could irritate your baby’s skin.

• Try to bath your baby every day, but don’t use soap or bubble bath.

• Gently pat rather than rub your baby’s bottom dry and avoid vigorous rubbing.

• Use a suitable barrier ointment at each nappy change.

Most mild cases of nappy rash can be easily treated with an ointment recommended by your pharmacist.

However, whenever you feel worried always seek the advice of a healthcare professional.

“NAPPY RASH IS USUALLY MILD AND CAN BE MANAGED WITH A GOOD SKINCARE ROUTINE”

nausea. It's important to keep hydrated, drinking little and often as large amounts of fluid will increase your chance of vomiting. You should contact your doctor if you cannot keep food or fluids down for 24 hours.

It’s important to maintain a healthy balanced diet during pregnancy, the baby’s nutritional needs depend on what you eat. Aim for three meals and two or three snacks per day.

Carbohydrates for energy - choose whole grain/ high fibre options low in fat, sugar and salt. Keep to your five-a-day. Protein such as lean meat, pulses and eggs are a source of iron - needed for your baby’s brain development. Calcium helps build bones, choose low-fat versions unless you’re underweight. Maintain a healthy weight by minimising the amounts of high fat and sugary foods and limit caffeine to 200mg per day.

Although the baby will get vitamins from your food, I would advise taking a supplement containing Folic acid and Vitamin D, but look for a pregnancy-appropriate multi vitamin- not containing Vitamin A.

absolutely-mama.co.uk

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Theodora LITTLE

Theodora Little, Dental Therapist Hygienist and Prevention 1 consultant at Curaden AG, Switzerland discusses proper oral care curaden.com Q Which oral care products should I use after my baby is born?

A Oral health starts at birth. As soon as your baby is born, it's important to be aware of the products you choose as a wrong decision can cause issues later on. Inadequate pacifiers can cause serious dental problems for babies and long-term use can have a knock-on effect on jaw development and alignment of the teeth as they grow. Th is can lead to further health problems including sleep disorders, difficulty breathing, swallowing disorders and poor posture.

Karolina LEWIS

Mum of two (10 years and 6 years), Founder and Creative Director of a maternity nightwear and loungewear company, Bumpkyn London bumpkyn.co.uk Q Why is it vital to closely monitor fetal movement from the beginning of pregnancy?

A Th is is such an important subject and it isn't touched on enough in antenatal classes or by medical professionals.

Many mums who experience a stillbirth say that there was a change in their baby’s pattern of movement beforehand and it’s thought that up to a third of stillbirths could be prevented if mums reported their concerns promptly and babies thought to be at risk were delivered.

T HE EXPERTS

If you do choose to use a pacifier, the Curaprox Soother size 0 for babies is specifically designed to support the development of gums, teeth and jaws.

It has been developed by orthodontists for your baby without the risk of jaw deformation and dental displacement as it leaves enough room for the tongue and palate to develop normally.

As your baby starts to teethe, they can experience distress when the teeth start to come through. Milk teeth are the placeholders for your babies’ adult teeth so it's important they have the best start in life. The Curaprox Teething Ring has interesting textures and a rattle to make it more fun - a playful approach to oral hygiene will promote sensory motor development while preparing babies for their fi rst toothbrush.

When your babies’ teeth have come through it's important to start gently brushing them with a Curaprox Baby toothbrush made of very fi ne Curen fi laments so soft it's impossible to damage the mouth. Avoid adding sugar to weaning foods, too. Most importantly, keep brushing fun!

Most women usually begin to feel movement between16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy and it is therefore essential for both Mums and Dads to get to know their baby’s movements and be able to react quickly.

Here at Bumpkyn we recognise the importance of this, which is why we work closely with Kicks Count, a charity which aims to empower mums-to-be with knowledge and confidence about their baby’s movements during pregnancy, ensuring healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.

Kicks Count have also developed an award-winning, free App, which lets you record the baby’s pattern of movement by tapping the screen each day and observing it over time, making it a great tool.

In any case, if you feel something isn't right you should immediately call your midwife.

Learn more on the subject at: kickscount.org.uk July 201 8

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Eight beautiful family run cosy cottages in the perfect location to enjoy both coastlines and many of Cornwall’s top attractions. Let the kids explore at will in the safety of our 13 acres. Enjoy our outdoor fun throughout the week such as marshmallow toasting, scavenger hunts and arts and crafts sessions. Perhaps most importantly... just relax and unwind. Whatever the weather Glynn Barton has you covered!

• Heated indoor swimming pool • Indoor soft play • Tennis Court • Outdoor Maze & Giant Play Fort • Play barn full of Toys & Games • Toddler Ride on Area • Animal Feeding & Egg collecting • BBQ areas & Pizza Oven • Honesty Shop stocked with cornish goodies and ‘Cook’ Homemade meals • Onsite massages • Beauty Treatments from My Personal Sanctuary

#GlynnBartonCottages 01208 821 104 stay@glynnbarton.co.uk www.glynnbarton.co.uk GB.indd 1

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reso urces

Travel Light MOUNTAIN BUGGY

Roll your kid around the airport with Mountain Buggy’s ingenious bagrider.

It transforms from a regular carry-on into a four-wheeled travelling seat for toddlers up to 15kg (nine months to three years old). Why didn’t they have these when we were kids? £95; kidly.co.uk

TOT GE AR

d& Triested Te

TOT GEA R

Top-notch baby kit designed to make parenting easier

High Life CHICCO

This clever high chair features four reclining positions – including one so flat it’s suitable for newborns – as well as a plush cushion to make the tiniest of tinies feel snug. A solid investment that lasts from birth to 36 months. £139; johnlewis.com

THIS MONTH’S APP BUMPIES

Bumpies allows mamas-to-be to track their pregnancy in weekly snaps that are then transformed into shareable keepsake timelapse videos. As a nice bonus, you can also view baby scan videos from WIndow to the Womb in the app. bumpies.co.uk

DIONO Q UANTU M T R AV E L SYSTEM

I

Wo r d s H O L LY K I R K WO O D

knew Diono had a reputation for making reliable car seats and accessories, so was interested to test-drive their first entry into the pushchair market when our newborn came along last summer.

The Quantum is billed as a complete travel system suitable from birth, and it lives up to the billing. It’s a goodlooking buggy, with an ingenious design: the convertible 3-in-1 smart seat can be used up to the age of four and, brilliantly, can be world-facing or parent-facing in all its positions.

The chassis is large, so along London pavements (and in shops) it feels like driving an SUV on narrow roads – although it is easily manoeuvrable.

Baby Kit was extremely comfy in the bassinet, while the XL basket proved to be a godsend, as did the generous four-tier sun canopy when summertime (finally) arrived. One minus point is that the foot-brake in the centre of the frame can be sticky, and is a bit of a fiddle when our buggy board is attached.

Overall, as a pushchair designed to last for years, the Quantum is a highquality, well thought-out piece of kit which could easily stand its own against some much pricier competition.

Diono Quantum Travel System, £500; uk.diono.com

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Generat ion

GAIN A south-London nursery co-located with a residential care home is being hailed as a flagbearer for new models of learning and sharing across the generations Wo r d s L I B BY N O R M A N

1 0 8  | absolutely-mama.co.uk

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“CHIL DREN DEVELOP A SENSE OF THEIR OWN PLACE IN THE WORLD – THE CYCLE OF LIFE AND CHAIN OF TRADI TION”

~

hen Apples and Honey Nightingale Nursery opened its doors last September at Nightingale House residential care home in Wandsworth, it attracted a shower of positive publicity as the UK’s first intergenerational nursery setting – young and old located together, sharing facilities and interacting on a daily basis. Stories appeared in specialist early years press, on national radio and TV and were also widely shared on social media. You can understand the flurry, for it’s hard not to conclude that this is one of those lightbulb ideas that could profoundly influence the future design of early years and residential care settings.

The nursery is a social enterprise that utilises space within an existing residential campus with beautiful grounds. Like Nightingale House, this is a Jewish faithbased setting but the nursery welcomes all children.

It reserves 20 per cent of its place for the children of staff at Nightingale House and hosts a free baby and toddler group every week. This means local residents with very young children can share and socialise within a nurturing, well-equipped and intergenerational environment.

This is certainly not the first time care homes and nurseries have been co-located. Japan pioneered schemes in the 1970s; others have been built or are in planning across the Far East. There are co-located nurseries and care homes in Canada and the US, notably the much-lauded Providence Mount St Vincent intergenerational centre (known as The Mount) in Seattle. But Apples and Honey Nightingale remains unique in some respects. It was carefully designed from the outset as a planned meeting point and community hub of young and old and its social enterprise status places it at the heart of an urban village.

For Judith Ish-Horowicz MBE, co-founder of the nursery, it is much more than a social winner. It’s been a long-term vision that she describes it as her: “baby”.

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The Subscription

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With a stellar career in teaching and early years, plus an MBE (2010) for Services to Early Years Education, this is her second nursery.

The original Apples and Honey in Wimbledon opened in 1991 and is consistently rated outstanding by Ofsted; her track record with an exemplar early years setting helped when it came to convincing the powers that be of the merits of a new-style nursery setting.

Co-founder Ali Somers has a Masters in Public and Nonprofit Management from New York University and special expertise in social enterprises, while head teacher Cindy Summer’s CV includes spells as director of Tiger Tots American Preschool in Taipei and head of Alyth Kindergarten in Temple Fortune, London. In other words, this is a team of very big hitters.

You may conclude they needed to be.

Ofsted only issued first guidance on registering and inspecting co-located intergenerational care centres in mid April. Stephen Burke of think tank United for All Ages (he prefers the term ‘think and do tank’) campaigns for intergenerational environments – with a target of 500 intergenerational centres by 2022. He organised the April roundtable meeting that brought Ofsted and the CQI together with

THERE ARE WEEKLY BABY AND TODDLER MEETS AT APPLES AND HONEY NIGHTINGALE NURSERY

~

“ WATCHING A MAN IN HIS 90S WHO NEVER HAD CHILDREN HIMSELF BOTTLE FEED A BABY IS SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL”

SCHOOLS SUCH AS WALHAMPTON CHAMPION INTERGENERATIONAL LINKS

providers. Like everyone who has visited Apples and Honey Nightingale, he’s inspired by the environment, adding that while other nursery and care home sites are co-located, they are not sharing activities. He would like to see many more initiatives like this. He says: “In theory, every nursery could link up with its local care home”.

It is the integration at Apples and Honey Nightingale that has set policy makers, care providers and campaigners thinking. Activities here are part of the rhythm of the day. There are shared games, sing-songs, cooking lessons, storytelling sessions and celebrations of festivals. “We have planned intergenerational activities every day,” says Ish-Horowicz. She is careful to point out that this is managed carefully and respectfully – never forgetting that this is the residents’ home.

The outcome of these activities has been, says Ish-Horowicz, beneficial for young and old alike. “They really do interact beautifully.”

Some Nightingale House residents have told her that being around the children has given them a reason to live, to try harder to exercise and keep up their energy levels. She says: “Many of the residents here haven’t, because of war or personal circumstances, had children. As we also have the baby and

~

toddler group every week, they feel part of a wider community and can watch the children grow and develop week by week. Seeing a man in his 90s who never had children himself bottle feed a baby is something very special.”

Children’s families get involved too (Ish-Horowicz says the home has an amazing pool of volunteers). Birthday cards and presents get swapped and links are formed that benefit all generations. The children – many without grandparents nearby – form bonds with older people, also learning not to fear ageing or frailty or think it’s something weird.

“It’s enriching for them and they develop a sense of their own place in the world – the cycle of life and chain of tradition.” She adds: “The children have become remarkably sensitive to the needs of older residents. They move and interact with them in a sensitive way”.

While many schools and nursery settings have a clear and laudable programme of intergenerational mixing, Apples and Honey Nightingale has taken things several steps further. Stephen Burke of United for All Ages suggests that this could be a model for the future.

“Children and residents benefit from the interaction and parents who visit the nursery become closely involved. The other beneficiaries are staff – care homes can feel quite closed and isolated from wider society. This opens them up as shared and social places.”

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

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

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

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

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

SOUT H E AST Dulwich Montessori Nursery School St Stephen’s Church, College Road, Dulwich, London SE21 7HN 0208 766 0091 Henry Fawcett Community Nursery (Leaf ) Clayton St, London SE11 5BZ 020 7582 0509 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 The Knightsbridge Kindergarten St Peter’s Church, 119 Eaton Square, London SW1W 9AL 020 7371 2306

Creative Explorers Day Nursery 18 Gisburn Rd, London N8 7BS 07956 809748

The Willcocks Nursery School Holy Trinity With All Saints Church, Prince Consort Road, London, SW7 2BA 020 7584 5054

E AST

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

Hatching Dragon Nursery School 1 Viscount St, London EC1Y 0AA 020 7256 9365 Sahan Preschool Day Nursery 12 Stukeley Rd, London, E7 9QZ 020 3719 7002

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

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reso urces DIRECTORY

Tadpoles Nursery School 68 Park Walk, Chelsea, London SW10 0NQ 020 7352 9757

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

The Barnes Village Nursery 3A Station Rd, London SW13 0LP 020 8878 5111

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

Gwendolen House 39 Gwendolen Ave SW15 6EH 0203 441 2450

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

London Early Years Foundation 121 Marsham St, Westminster, London SW1P 4LX 020 7834 8679

W EST Little Chepstow Nursery 108 Lancaster Road, W11 1QS 0207 243 0243

One World Nursery 9 Knowle Cl, London SW9 0TQ 020 7924 9505

Rolfe’s Nursery School The Little House, 34a Oxford Gardens, London, W10 5UQ 020 8969 5805

Dee’s Day Nursery (Wimbledon) 2 Mansel Rd, Wimbledon, London SW19 4AA 020 8944 0284

New Studio Pre-School Kelfield Mews, Kelfield Gardens, London, W10 6LS 020 8969 5805

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

Denbigh Under Fives Group 5b Denbigh Road, Denbigh Road, London, W11 2SJ 020 7221 5318

The Square School 18 Holland Park Avenue, London W11 3QU 020 7221 6004

Carmelite Parish Centre Pitt Street W8 4JH 07810 712241

Holland Park Nursery School Kenley Walk Hall, Kenley Walk, London W11 4BA 020 7792 0323

Iverna Gardens Montessori Nursery School Armenian Church Hall, Iverna Gardens, London W8 6TP 020 7937 0794

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

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

St Peter’s Nursery School 59a Portobello Road, London W11 3DB 020 7243 2617

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

Ladbroke Square Montessori School 43 Ladbroke Square, London W11 3ND 020 7229 0125

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

Kids Unlimited 34 Ladbroke Grove, London W11 3BQ 0845 365 2918

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r es ou rces EDUCATION

Talking Head

Time

TOGETHER

Redcliffe School, Chelsea head teacher Sarah Lemmon explains why she made the decision to take the school fully co-ed

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“ BEING CO-ED, W E ARE NOW A BL E TO G IVE T HE BOYS T H E SAME GIF T OF T I M E A S THE GIRLS – T I ME TO ENJOY L EA R NI NG”

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ollowing my appointment in September 2017, I announced that Redcliffe was to become a fully co-educational school for pupils aged two-and-a-half to 11. In the independent sector the movement towards coeducation seems to grow apace.

It is my view that co-education encourages self-esteem, social skills and better prepares pupils for a diverse world where both genders play important roles. It teaches children to have respect for their peers, regardless of gender, and exposes them to different viewpoints.

I believe that early years and primary education is best delivered where boys and girls learn to work together and be prepared for the challenges they will face as they confidently transition to their senior schools.

While pastoral care has always been one of our strengths at Redcliffe, our priority is to ensure all pupils reach their highest potential. Being fully co-ed, we are now able to give the boys the same gift of time as the girls – time to enjoy learning, time to grow intellectually and time to develop cocurricular interests before sitting 11+ exams for their next schools.

Supporting this focus on co-curricular interests, we have redesigned our sports to increase the physical time for sport and widen the range of options for team and individual activities. Team sports that were traditionally ‘boys’ or ‘girls’ only are now open to pupils of both genders. We encourage every child to participate, with the hope of fi nding new activities that they are passionate about. Th is means that our co-ed girls and boys can try a

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PUPILS AT REDCLIFFE SCHOOL

broad and exciting range of new and familiar activities – everything from athletics, ultimate frisbee, climbing, fencing, martial arts and dance to ‘traditional’ team sports.

Th is is very much in tune with the wellbeing programme at Redcliffe, which focuses on self, others and the wider world. It helps pupils to discover their character strengths and weaknesses through academic work, sport and when participating in the many afterschool clubs we offer. Children continue to build on these as they move from pre-prep to prep and become their best selves. All pupils adopt our Redcliffe Values of perseverance, resilience and courage, with the capacity to appreciate others, kindness and a ‘have a go’ mentality sitting alongside these.

Unique tailor-made education provides a differentiated, personalised and challenging curriculum where teachers know each pupil well. The school’s high expectations, with no limitations as to what individuals can achieve, is designed so that everybody reaches their full potential as they move from nursery through to Year 6. At Redcliffe, we see it as our responsibility to ensure that we prepare children for the world in which they live.

SARAH LEMMON Headmistress Redcliffe School

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