9 - The Best Start

Spring 2015

Issue No. 9

Preparing for Birth The Aveta Home Birth Team

First Aid Courses How to find a great nursery

Also...

Directory of Classes & Groups

FREE guide

for Calderdale & Huddersfield Parents

Weekly Local Classes

Precious bonding time in a bubble of splashy fun!

There’s nothing quite like the feel of your baby’s skin against your own. It’s one of the best things you can do to bond with your baby and being in cosy warm water enhances those cherished moments.

classes held... in Huddersfield and across the Yorkshire area

Our world-class teachers could have trained as private pilots – five times over – in the time it takes to fully qualify with us. You can trust us to take the very best care of you and your little one.

To give your baby a splashing start call

01943 862 802 Let’s teach your baby to swim!

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www.waterbabies.co.uk

Welcome to...

Welcome to our Spring Issue of The Best Start, we are so looking forward to the warmer days, lighter nights and to getting outside more. If you are a new parent, rising with a young baby at the crack of dawn somehow feels easier when the sun is up with you.

Contents page

If you are on maternity leave or have young children, Spring is a good time to start getting out and about again and meeting new people.

Maybe try some exercise such as ‘Buggy for Fitness’ classes, see the back page; or go along to a Netmums meet up, organised by local mum, Steph. For more details about ways to meet others, see the directory in the centre pages.

Birth story

4

Mother’s Day

7

Preparing for birth

8

Your MSLC

11

First Aid Courses

12

Weaning Worries

13

Directory 16 Useful contacts

18

Waterbabies 19 Osteopathy 20

In this issue, we have two local birth stories and a chance to win a copy of: ‘Gentle Birth Companions: a handbook for doulas and parents’ by Adela Stockton, see pages 8 & 9.

Aveta Home Birth Team

21

Home birth story

22

How to choose a great nursery

24

We hope you enjoy this issue and look forward to hearing your feedback.

ToddlerCalm 27

Warm wishes

What to pack in your hospital bag

iPilates 28

Andrea Wallman, Founder of The Best Start email: hello@thebeststart.co.uk Telephone: 01422 399533 or 07711 964658

thebeststart

31

@thebeststart

Disclaimer. The Best Start is a free, independent magazine for new and expectant parents in Huddersfield and Calderdale.

Any statements or opinions given in this magazine are not necessarily those of the editor. Nothing may be reproduced without prior permission Editor: Andrea Wallman. Copy Editor: Adela Stockton.

Design: Print Bureau. Front Cover: Supplied by Sugarbird Photography

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Birth Storsyon

by Sarah Aitchi

My husband Rob and I live in Halifax with our 3-year old daughter Martha and 14-week-old baby boy Ned.

My daughter Martha was born at the Birth Centre attached to Calderdale Royal Hospital. Although my labour was long and very painful with Martha, the experience I had after she was born made me determined to give birth at the centre again. Martha was born at 8pm, all of our family were able to visit as late as 10.30pm and Rob was allowed to spend the night with us on a little fold-out bed in our private room. I think if I’d have been on a ward without him that first night, it would have been a very different experience for all of us.

My second pregnancy progressed without any complications, but as I got

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nearer the 40 week ‘mark’, my baby was showing no signs of wanting to arrive!

During the next 2 weeks I had 3 stretch and sweeps as I was determined to go into labour naturally, being induced would have made using the birth centre unlikely.

However, he did not want to budge so an induction date was set for 6th October at exactly 42 weeks.

The night before this, I woke up to mild pains. I had been having lots of Braxton Hicks for the previous few weeks, but they had all only ever lasted about an hour. These were much stronger and after nearly 2 hours I woke Rob up to tell him I was in labour. Our baby had decided to beat induction by just a few hours!

The contractions were manageable and I got in the bath around 5am, as I knew the warm water would help.

My contractions were about 5 minutes apart and Rob rang the birth centre to let them know. He was advised by the midwife to ring again when they were around 3/4 minutes or when the pain got too much. It was at this point that Martha woke up and decided to join me in the bath!! It was such a surreal experience to be having contractions, yet trying to talk normally to her as she played with her bath toys! The humour of the situation actually helped me forget the pain!

My mum arrived to take Martha to her house and we headed off to the bir th centre at around 9.3 0am.

We were greeted by the same midwife who incidentally had attended us at Martha’s bir th too, and she led us to a lovely room with a bir th pool. I was examined and found to be 5cm dilated, so she bega n to run the water into the pool.

The midwife also found tha t my baby was lying back to my ba ck, so she showed me some positio ns I could adopt in the water that would help him to turn. I asked for ga s and air once I was in the pool, as I found that this really helped me to concentrate on my breathing. I never found it provided much pain reli ef in itself, but the action of the de ep breaths in and out helpe d me to focus. In between contractions I was able to speak and relax in the wa ter – and a bottle of cold Rib ena helped to give me a bit of sugar for energy.

After around 50 minutes of painful pushing, my baby’s head was born, then shortly after the rest of his body followed. My husband was able to see that we’d had a baby boy and the midwives were shocked at how big he was! I held him in my arms in the warm water and he was perfe ct.

Baby Ned was born at 1.51pm weighing in at 9lb 6ozs!

The aftercare we received at the bir th centre was as great as be fore (and the toast they made wa s the best I’d ever eaten!). Baby Ned and I were helped to breastfeed an d were able to stay overnight as a fam ily. I had a lovely lavender bath run for me and the staff were all so kind – it made it such a fantastic experie nce.

After a couple of hours in the pool my contractions were co ming thick and and fast and I was sta rting to feel the urge to push. Again my midwives were great at encouragin g me into different positions and off ering calm and encouraging words (and bossing me a bit when I said I co uldn’t push any more!)

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Why not treat Mum to something special this Mothers Day? Photo Shoot plus a 16 x 12 print of her choice PLUS 5 images on a disc.

All for an amazing ÂŁ45!

Contact us on 01535 658822 to book your session www.pictureperfectphotographyuk.co.uk

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The History of Mothering Sunday & Mother’s Day Mothering Sunday is always held on the fourth Sunday of Lent, so the date varies every year. Children often make home-made cards and presents and give flowers as a token of thanks for their Mother’s love and care.

The tradition of Mothering Sunday arose from the occasion when British children, who had gone to work as apprentices and domestic servants, were given the day off to visit their mothers and families, At that time, children often left home to work from the age of ten! On their way home, they would pick flowers to give to their families or take to church. Simnel cake, a fruitcake made with two layers of marzipan, also know as ‘Mothering Cake’ was given as a gift.

Over the years this tradition stopped until the American soldiers, based in East Anglia during the second world war, were surprised to find that there was no ‘Mother’s Day’, which was celebrated on the 2nd Sunday of May in America. These soldiers, who were away from home for the first time, gave gifts to their ‘foster mothers’ in Britain.

Local sons and daughters duly continued the idea long after the soldiers returned home. Mothering Sunday then returned to the traditional date of the fourth Sunday in Lent and has continued ever since.

Mother’s Day Gifts and Ideas Things that make mums-to-be and mums feel amazing.

Brassiere Lingerie in Hipperholme, offers a range of gorgeous lingerie, which includes maternity and nursing bras. They also do gift vouchers, which make a great present.

Photo Shoots. Always taking the photos, but never in them? How many mums can look through the photo albums and see that in the hundreds of photos you’ve taken you’re not in many of them, Why not book a professional shoot with a local photographer (see pages 3, 6 & 10), from maternity to family portraits, they are great memory keepers.

Massage. Whether you’re pregnant, a new mum or busy mum of many children, we often forget to take time out for ourselves. Having a massage can help promote those lovely hormones and make us feel relaxed and calm (see pages 6 & 30).

A bath and time to read. When you become a mum it can be really hard to find the time to get in the bath and relax, funny how often your baby wakes up just as you’ve started to relax.

Going to the loo in peace: the simple things in life are priceless!

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Preparing for Birth – the Three P’s In over 20 years of supporting expectant parents in preparation for birth, I now encourage mothers and fathers to focus on just three key points.

Place It is important that you feel safe when you are in labour and giving birth, as well as during the first hour after birth. Feeling comfortable and secure in your surroundings encourages the flow of oxytocin around your body, supporting effective contractions and a sense of wellbeing and love towards your new baby. This facilitates bonding and breastfeeding too.

Choosing your safe place to give birth is fundamental therefore!

For some mothers, being at home may feel right, while for others, being in hospital can feel more secure. It is your decision, despite what other people think or what you are being told about the availability of services. Taking some quiet time out with yourself (and your partner) during your pregnancy, to really feel into where could be the right birth space for you, can be useful. If you meet with resistance to your choice, AIMS is a valuable resource for support and guidance.

People The people who are supporting you during labour will contribute to the atmosphere in your birth space. We know that privacy is important.

Feeling observed or surrounded by noise, bright lights and strangers can arouse your levels of adrenalin, which counteracts oxytocin. Being in your intellectual brain (while responding to questions for example) can hinder you

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from accessing your mammalian brain, from connecting with the primal instincts that support you to birth safely.

Selecting your support people carefully can make a real difference to how labour unfolds.

You may wish your partner to be with you and he/she may be keen to be there, although some fathers can find being present at birth challenging. Having a frank conversation about how he feels well before your baby is due to come, means you can be prepared with options.

So additionally, you may decide to hire a doula.

Based on your wishes and individual needs, she will work to keep the atmosphere calm and undisturbed, supporting you as well as your partner. You are entitled to an attending NHS midwife and most times this works out well, even if you have not met her/him before, or you may choose independent midwifery care. Some women or couples opt to freebirth, with no attending midwife or additional support people however, because that is what feels right for them.

Attitudes to Pain Labour takes time, effort and focus. The more you can work with the sensation of each contraction during labour, rather than resisting it, the less painful it is likely to feel. Sometimes it can be useful use your voice to help keep yourself grounded during contractions, by groaning, moaning or even singing. With the appropriate emotional support from people you trust, in a place where you feel safe and freely able to take up different positions, your chances of working with the pain more easily and birthing naturally in your own time are increased.

If you feel strongly about avoiding opiates (pethedine, diamorphine and epidural drugs), it can be worth checking in with your support people about their attitudes to pain, well beforehand. How comfortable they feel with the way you express yourself during labour, may impact on their need to suggest that you accept pain medication. How well does reaching for headache pills versus exercise/fresh air/a drink of water for example, sit with your idea of an effective birth supporter?

around the parent/baby dyad from a personal as well as professional perspective. Author of ‘Birth Space, Safe Place’, the revised edition of her second book ‘Gentle Birth Companions’ is now available (see Resources). Adela is happy to be contacted through her website at www.adelastocktoncounselling.net

And finally…

Memories of childbirth can stay with us forever. I believe it is worth taking the time and consideration to optimise your chances of enjoying a positive birth and early parenting experience, even if things end up differently from how you expected. Protecting your emotional wellbeing helps to support the relationship between you and your new baby and gets the whole family off to a great start.

Resources Gentle Birth Companions: a handbook for doulas and parents by Adela Stockton www.adelastockton.co.uk or www.cpibookdelivery.com Pathway to a Healthy Birth (Booklet & Poster), based on research by Sarah Buckley http:// transform.childbirthconnection.org/reports/ physiology Adela Stockton is a registered psychodynamic therapist, writer and facilitator. Previously a midwife and doula course leader, she has a special interest in birth trauma and PTSD. Her ‘First Relationship’ workshops aim to promote awareness

WIN

a signed copy

of ‘Gentle Birth C o m p anions’ by emailing he

llo@thebeststa rt.co.uk write ‘Gentle Birth’ in the subject and w e’ll randomly select someo ne on

1st May 2015 , goo

d luck!

Announcemen t will be made on /thebeststar t

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Do you want to make a difference to your local maternity services?

Come along to our meeting and find out more Tuesday 21st April, 10.00 - 12.00pm at The Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre, Hopwood Lane, Halifax, HX1 5ER

Babies and children are welcome. A light lunch is provided from 12 – 1pm.

So we can plan for lunch please confirm your attendance and any dietary requirements by emailing info@yourmslc.org.uk.

/yourmslc

www.yourmslc.org.uk

Maternity Service Liaison Committees (MSLCs) are a group of people made up of service users, providers and the funders of maternity services who come together to discuss maternity services development. They focus on the full range of care provided to pregnant women and their partners, families, and the parents of newborn babies.

The Calderdale and Huddersfield “Your MSLC” welcomes all those with an interest in helping to support and shape the future of maternity services. If you are interested in being more involved then please do attend our event or get in touch, we would love to hear from you!

In Calderdale and Huddersfield Your MSLC is a service user led group aiming to be the voice of the community.

BABY AND CHILD FIRST AID COURSES ‘Keeping children safe’ Our courses for parents and carers cover all the basic first aid knowledge needed to help keep

Half a million children go to3 hour A&Esession departments after accidents in their children safe in your care. Each is tailoredeach to theyear group’s needs. home. The vast majority of us, including most parents, don’t know basic first aid Resuscitation * Unconscious * Choking * Anaphylaxis * Poisoning Bleeding techniques and(CPR) would be unable casualties to deal with medical emergencies in the* home such Burns and Scalds * Fractures * Childhood illnesses as choking, burns and fractures.

Our shorter children are lots of fun and help them deal with basic emergencies.

Would youcourses know for what to do?

Our courses designedworking to build your as a parent or carer in other dealing We have a lot are of experience with localconfidence schools, nurseries, playgyms, NCT and with emergency situations.

We also deliver courses for children to help them to parenting groups. We can run groups in one of our local venues or in the comfort of your home. deal with basic emergencies.

Courses cost from £15pp. Discounts for groups of

Our courses for parents and cover all the basic first aid knowledge 15 orcarers more with this advert needed to help keep children safe in your care. Each 3 hour session is tailored to the group’s needs.

David@kdatraining.co.uk 07773 775081 We also run Paediatric First Aid 1 or 2 day level 3 accredited courses for carers (this is in line with the Statutory Framework for the Early (CPR) Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and meets the requirements of Ofsted) Resuscitation Unconscious casualties Choking

Anaphylaxis

Poisoning Bleeding Burns and Scalds

Fractures

Childhood illnesses

Our shorter courses for children are lots of fun and help them deal with basic emergencies.

We have a lot of experience working with local schools, nurseries, playgyms, NCT and other parenting groups. We can run groups in one of our local venues or in the comfort of your home.

Courses cost from £15pp.

Discounts for couples when pre-booked david@kdatraining.co.uk 07773 775081 www.kdatraining.co.uk

Don’t delay! book your first aid course today!

Saturday 28th March Sunday 26th April Saturday 30th May

We also run Paediatric First Aid 1 or 2 day level 3 accredited courses for carers (this is in line with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and meets the requirements of Ofsted)

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Weaning Worries?

When to start introducing solid foods Introducing your baby to solid foods should start when your baby is around six months old.

Research shows that babies need nothing but breastmilk, or infant formula, for the first six months of life, this gives them all the nutrition they need. More importantly it also gives a baby’s digestive system time to develop so that they cope fully with solid foods.

It’s an exciting time for parents and babies and people are often keen to get started. It can also be a time of much confusion, especially as the guidance and advice has changed over the years.

So if you’re confused by conflicting advice, or you’re not quite sure where to start, our weaning workshop will be ideal for you.

At The Best Start® Weaning Workshop we explain everything you need to know about introducing your child to solid food, dispelling common myths and we also have some fun! Bring your baby along too.

What we cover on the workshop?

• History of weaning, ages, guidance, myths • Puree or baby led? Theory & research • How to get started, what you do and don’t need • Brief rationale behind the baby led weaning philosophy • Common questions • Knowing when to refer to a health visitor/GP • Sampling some tasty treats All workshops are held at The Premier Inn, Salterhebble, Halifax. £20 per person or £35 per couple/ family • Saturday 11th April, 1.00pm - 3.30pm • Saturday 23rd May 2015, 10.00am – 12.30pm For more details and to book your place see www.thebeststart.co.uk/bookonline Or contact Andrea on 01422 399533 or andrea@thebeststart.co.uk

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Baby Massage Massaging your baby is a lovely opportunity to focus on each other and take a break from rushing around. It also enables you to meet other parents and have a drink and chat. The techniques used in baby massage are drawn from both Indian and Swedish massage traditions, as well as principles taken from yoga and reflexology.

On an IAIM baby massage course you will learn:

• massage stokes for legs, feet, stomach, chest, arms, hands, face and back • a short colic routine • gentle movements and touch relaxation • the best time and for how long to massage • what massage oils to use • how to adapt the strokes for your baby’s individual needs and the growing child

Benefits of Baby Massage

The benefits of baby massage can include: • strengthen baby-parent communication • enhance your understanding of baby’s development • boost self esteem and confidence in parenting • relax parent and baby • encourage a deeper sleep for baby • relieve wind, colic and constipation • reduce crying Please contact Andrea on 07711 964658 or andrea@thebeststart.co.uk www.thebeststart.co.uk

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All classes ca n now be book ed online thebeststart .co.uk /bookonline

Courses Details: Venue: Copley Cricket Club, Copley Length of course: 5 weeks Day & Time: 2 courses, 1 at 11.30 - 12.45 and the other 1.00 - 2.15.

Price: £40 – this includes course notes, a bottle of organic sunflower oil & refreshments, booking and a deposit is required Other info: Please bring a towel Course Start Dates: Wednesday 15th April 2015 Wednesday 20th May 2015

Directory of Local Groups

Attending a new group can sometimes be a bit daunting, so you could take a friend with you for the first time or ring and talk to the organiser before you go. It could turn out to be a great source of support and a good way to meet other mums.

Parent & Toddler Mondays - Outlane Baby & Toddlers Outlane Methodist Church 9.30 – 11.15am, 07891542170.

Wednesdays - Baby Stay & Play Todmorden Children’s Centre 1.30pm – 3.00pm

Mondays - NCT Bumps, Babes & Toddlers Holmfirth Parish Church 10.30am – 12.00noon

Wednesdays - Southowram Baby Group Southowram Children’s Centre 1.30pm – 3pm

Mondays - Shelley Baby & Toddler Group Methodist Church 9am – 11am, 01484 606750

Wednesdays - Busy Babies Elland Children Centre 1pm – 3pm, 01422 373133

Mondays - Meltham Baby & Toddler Group Meltham Methodist Church 9.30am – 11.30am

Wednesdays - Barkisland Parent & Toddler Barkisland Cricket Club 9.30am – 11.30am, 07718 606867

Mondays - Baby Stay & Play Hebden Vale Children’s Centre 1.30pm – 3.00pm

Wednesdays - Copley Parent & Toddler Group Rugby Club, 9.30am – 11.00am, 01422 320097

Tuesdays – Parent & Toddler Group Lumbutts Methodist Church 9.30am – 11.30am Debbie 07899 077704 Tuesdays - Hill Top Tots Coley Church Hall, Coley Sharon 07860 813347 9.30am – 11.30am Tuesdays - Baby Group Siddal Children’s Centre, 1.30pm – 3.00pm 01422 395501, Babies under 12 month Tuesdays - Ripponden Parent & Toddler Group Community Centre, Old Bank 9.30am – 11.30am, 01422 822777

Wednesdays - Rainbow Baby & Toddler Group Dalton, 9.30am–11.30am, 01484 518830 Wednesdays - Little Squirrels Parent & Child Group Wonderland Playgym 9.30am – 11.30am, 07790 427609 Thursdays - Greetland Mother & Toddler Group St Thomas’ Church, Greetland 1pm – 2.30pm (£2) 07971 636236 Thursdays - Meltham Baby & Toddler Group Meltham Methodist Church, 9.30am – 11.30am Thursdays - Parent & Child Group The Motherhub, Lindley, 10am – 1pm Fridays - Baby Stay & Play Todmorden Health Centre, 9.30am – 11.30am

Tuesdays - All Saints Parent & Toddler Group Skircoat Green, 9.30am – 11.30am and 12.30pm – 2.15pm, 01422 3200

Fridays - Stones Baby & Toddler Group Stones Methodist Church, Ripponden 9.30am – 11.00am, 07531 406830

Tuesdays - Birkby Mum, Baby & Toddler Group Community Centre, 9.30 – 11.15am

Fridays - Parent & Toddler Group Birchencliffe Community Centre 9.30am – 11.30am, £1 per family

Tuesdays - Fixby Parent & Toddler Group Saint Francis Church 1.00 – 2.45pm, 01484 540728 Tuesdays - Parent & Child Group The Motherhub, Lindley, 12.00 – 3.30pm Tuesdays - Parent & Toddler Group St Stephen’s Parish Church, Lindley 10.00am – 12.00noon (term time only)

Fridays - Lindley Little Ones Lindley Methodist Church, Lindley.

1.00pm – 2.45pm, 07761 784627 Twins & More Support Group Informal support from local parents Jubillee Centre, Market Street, Paddock, HD1 4SH £2 per family (donation) Kat 07736 937250

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Antenatal NCT in Halifax, Huddersfield, Hebden Bridge www.nct.org.uk/courses Bookings7b@nct.org.uk, 0208 752 9127 Private 1-1 Birth preparation The Best Start Andrea – 01422 399533 or 07711 964658 andrea@thebeststart.co.uk NHS Antenatal Classes and Tour of Unit Speak to your midwife for the current numbers

Bra Fitting Brassiere Lingerie Hipperholme 01422 201753 www.brassierelingerie.co.uk

Paediatric Osteopathy Paediatric Osteopathy Huddersfield www.huddersfieldosteopathy.co.uk 01484 517808

Baby Massage Wednesday - IAIM Baby Massage Copley Cricket Club - 11.30am & 1.00pm Andrea 07711 964658, www.thebeststart.co.uk IAIM Baby Massage BabyBliss, Groups & 1-2-1 in Slaithwaite Sam 07598 319576, sam@blisstherapies.org IAIM Baby Massage Todmorden / Hebden Bridge, Debbie 07899 077704

Pregnancy Massage Saks Beauty Albion Street, Halifax 01422 385125 Heal Ann Care Bolton Brow, Sowerby Bridge 07712 583294

Childminders Mel Pollard – Ofsted registered Hebden Bridge melpollard21@yahoo.co.uk 01422 842831 or 07939 320190 Sarah’s Little Explorers Bailiffe Bridge, 07708 398548 s_arahparker@hotmail.com Mudpies and ladybirds Ofsted Registered, Greetland,Halifax mudpiesandladybirds@outlook.com Phone: 07793769504

Photographers Picture Perfect Photography www.pictureperfectphotographyuk.co.uk 01535 658822 sugarbird Photography sugarbirdphoto.co.uk 01422 399540 Tania Elizabeth Photography www.taniaelizabethphotography.co.uk 07584 126808

First Aid Courses KDA Training www.kdatraining.co.uk 07773 775081

Sling & Nappy Library

BABY AN

Our courses for parents and carers c children safe in your care. Each 3 ho

Resuscitation (CPR) * Unconsciou Burns and S

Our shorter courses for children are

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Monday – Baby Lounge Sling Library (fortnightly) My Playcafe, Hebden Bridge, 9.30am-12pm, Debbie 07899 077704

Thursday – Huddersfield Sling Library Northfield Hall, Huddersfield, HD1 1GS 10.00 - 12.00 Yolanda 07747 867065

Tuesday – Huddersfield & Halifax Sling Library (fortnightly) babyballet, Halifax, HX1 1QG 10.00 - 12.00 Yolanda 07747 867065

Nappy Library Jenny 07811 455193 Jen_77uk@hotmail.com

We have a lot of experience workin

parenting groups. We can run grou

Courses co

David@kdat

We also run Paediatric First Aid 1 or 2 d Statutory Framework for the Early Year

Postnatal Exercise Monday - Buggy 4 Fitness Manor Heath Park – 10-11am Savile Park – 10am Wellholme Park – 1.30pm Sharon 07825 706983 Monday - Ipilates Mum & Baby Classes 9.30, 10.30 & 11.30 Halifax, Helen 07788 702622

Wednesday - Buggy 4 Fitness The Stray, Hipperholme – 10am Call Sharon 07825 706983

Thursdays - Buggy 4 Fitness Ripponden – 11am Call Sharon 07825 706983

Wednesdays - Postnatal Pilates with Rachel Waterside Gym, Hebden Bridge 1.30pm - 2.30pm 07944360594

Friday – Buggy 4 Fitness NEW Indoor Class Play Palace 10-11am Sharon 07825 706983

Wednesdays - Postnatal Pilates with Rachel Blessingway, Hebden Bridge 8.00pm - 9.00pm 07944360594

Tuesday - Buggy 4 Fitness Wellhome Park, Brighouse 10-11 Sharon 07825 706983 Wednesday - Upbeat Mums Northbridge Leisure Centre 11.15am - 12.15pm 01422 284435

Friday - iPilates Mum & Baby Classes 2pm & 3pm, Halifax Helen 07788 702622

Support for Mums Mum Time Discussions around motherhood, wellbeing & mental health.

Creche available (need to book).

Every 1st & 3rd Wed 1.00- 2.45pm lou@healthymindscalderdale.co.uk 01422 345154 or 07879 732626

Netmums Meet up Monthly Meet-ups run by a local mum, Steph, helping connect local people.

Facebook group search Netmums-Meetups-Halifax www.netmums.com

Sensory Monday – Rhythm Time Bailiffe Bridge, 9.30, 10.10 & 10.50 Rebecca - 01422 747010 Tuesday – Rhythm Time Jungle at the Junction, Queensbury 9.30, 10.10, 10.50 & 11.30 Copley Cricket Club, 1.20pm & 2.00pm Rebecca - 01422 747010

Wednesday – Rhythm Time The Edge, Elland, 10.10 & 10.50 Town Hall, Hebden Bridge, 9.30 & 10.10 Rebecca - 01422 747010 Thursday – Rhythm Time Copley Cricket Club, 10.10, 10.50, 11.30 Rebecca - 01422 747010 Friday – Rhythm Time The Edge, Elland, 9.30, 10.10 & 10.50

Fun & Music Monday - Jo Jingles Barkisland Cricket Club 9.45am, 10.45am & 11.45am Jo - 01706 212889 Wednesdays - Jo Jingles Play Palace, 9.45am, 10.45am & 11.45am Jo – 01706 212889

Thursday - Jo Jingles Elland Wellbeing Centre, Elland 9.45am, 10.45am & 11.45am Todmorden 9.30am, 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm & 1.30pm Jo – 01706 212889

Day Nurseries

Friday - Jo Jingles St Stephen’s Church, Lindley 9.45am, 10.45am, 11.45am Jo – 01706 212889

Providence Day Nursery Elland www.providenceday.co.uk 01422 379300

The Ark Mytholmroyd www.thearkexperience.co.uk 01422 882010

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Useful Contact Numbers Breastfeeding Support Many of the national organisations have really useful information on their website and facebook pages NCT Breastfeeding helpline 0300 330 0771 (8am -10pm) www.nct.org.uk Calderdale Breastfeeding Peer Support 07920 466 660 peersupporters@calderdale.gov.uk

AIMS Helpline helpline@aims.org.uk 0300 365 0663 Calderdale Birth Centre 01422 224417 Huddersfield Birth Centre 01484 342608 Home Birth Support Group homebirthgroup@gmail.com LDRP / Delivery Ward 01422 222129 or 224352

Association of Breastfeeding Mothers 0300 100 0210 (9.30am-10.30pm) www.abm.me.uk

Triage 01422 223492

La Leche League Helpline 0845 120 2918 www.laleche.org.uk

Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000247

National Breastfeeding Helpline (NHS) 0300 100 0212 NCT Breast pump hire (charges apply) Helen Mellor 07931 998337 Your local GP can be contacted for help and advice.

NHS Direct 0845 4647

Mental Health Support Kirklees 01924 284555 Calderdale 01422 222891 Stop Smoking Service 0800 1699169 Huddersfield 01484 344285 Calderdale 01422 281505 NCT Helpline – pregnancy and birth & early parenthood 0300 330 0700

Huddersfield Baby Café

Calderdale Baby Café

2a Chestnut Street, Huddersfield, HD2 1HJ

25 Square Road, Halifax, HX1 1QG

Monday afternoon from 1pm - 3pm

Thursday morning from 9am - 11am

slinglibrary.com Do you ...have a carrier you’re unsure how to use? ...want to learn about different carrier options? ...have an uncomfortable carrier? ...want to try a carrier before you buy? ...want to hire a carrier for a wedding, holiday or special event?

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Pop along to our drop in session • Every Thursday 10 - 12 at Northfield Hall, Huddersfield • Every Tuesday 10 - 12 at babyballet, Halifax

Water Babies Swimming with your baby is a very special time, where you can focus purely on each other and enjoy the closeness of playing in water.

One of our core philosophies is that we’ll teach you to teach your baby to swim. So together, we’ll teach your child to feel safe and confident both above and below the water. You’ll be amazed that within a few lessons they’ll be moving freely under the water. And over time, they’ll progress from the early days of enjoying the freedom and fun - floating, kicking and splashing about - to learning to swim independently.

Our multi-award winning course teaches core skills, building on each as the weeks progress. So, for instance, when your baby is still very young they’ll learn to follow the simple instruction to ‘hold on’ to the side of the pool - and learning to respond to such simple instructions is fantastic for your baby’s mental development.

Weekly exercise is great for them physically too, especially as healthy children are much more likely to grow into healthy adults. And in water they’re able to exercise every muscle - including some they’d never even find on land!

Because we only use warm water pools, babies can start with us from birth - 2 days was our youngest, and teaching over 40,000 clients each week, we’ve got the knowledge and expertise to ensure our parents and babies experience something truly extraordinary.

But don’t take our word for it, see what some of our Mums and Dads have said about us recently: “I love every week we do something different with them, so glad I joined” - Debbie, mum of Libby (Feb 2015) “We love our weekly classes on a Friday and can honestly say it’s the highlight of the week.

Learning crucial skills is so important and I can already see a massive improvement” - Angela, mum of Isobelle (Jan 2015) “We took Alice swimming to Water Babies at exactly one week old and had no idea what to expect. The lesson itself was excellent and thoroughly enjoyable for Alice even though she slept throughout it all” - Kenny, dad of Alice (Nov 2014) Our next cycle of lessons starts in May. Water Babies classes are available in Huddersfield and across the Yorkshire area.

For more information, please contact the friendly team at Water Babies Yorkshire (Central) on 01943 862802, email: horseyhorsey@waterbabies.co.uk or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk.

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Let’s begin the journey with a smile 90 New North Road, Edgerton, Huddersfield HD1 5NE

Paediatric Osteopathy

The gentle, safe approach for dealing with many common problems in infanthood.

Dear Parents or Parents-to-be, Over the last 60 years the Osteopathic discipline which goes by the popular title of ‘Cranial Osteopathy’ has repeatedly demonstrated an immensely successful, gentle and safe approach for dealing with many of the common problems of the newborn, young and not so young child. These include: • • • •

Colic Sleep Disorder Failure to meet growth targets Failure to meet developmental targets

Common sense dictates that every baby should be examined as some malfunctions are symptomless.

Call for advice on 01484 517808 or 07584 237423 Or visit www.huddersfieldosteopathy.co.uk Tracy Lomax DO Registered Osteopath

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New Aveta Home Birth Team The Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust has boosted its maternity services by launching the new Aveta Home Birth Team. The team will enable more women to give birth at home.

responsibilities, which meant that this was not ideal for women or midwives during busy times.

Aveta is the Trust’s new 24-hour team of dedicated homebirth midwives. The service, launched ahead of recent NICE recommendations supporting midwife-led unit deliveries or homebirths for low-risk pregnant women, provides bespoke support for mums-tobe-who want to have their babies at home.

The new dedicated homebirth team is a real development in maternity services at the Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust. Women who want a homebirth experience will benefit from having increased continuity of care and a midwife they are likely to know at their birth.

The team aims to provide personal one-to-one care for women throughout their pregnancy, labour and immediately following the birth of their baby. Care will usually be provided in a home setting at flexible times to meet the needs of individual women and their families.

The name Aveta is derived from Aveta, the Norse goddess of birth and lactation.

Senior Clinical Midwifery Manager, Joyce Ayre, said:

Women interested in birthing their baby at home can contact a midwife from the team on 07825 115 367 for more information or can refer via their community midwife.

Previously, community midwives combined cover for homebirths with other midwifery Left - Right, Pat Mallinson, Melanie Struthers & Jennie Wild.

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Home Birth Story

by Claire and Lee Young

was doing well, that our baby was on his way and to just keep doing what I was doing. By this time I was using a TENS machine, which was really helping to manage the contractions.

Lee was really supportive, giving me back massages and reminding me to use the yoga breathing techniques I’d practiced. While the birth pool was filling we cuddled up on the sofa and watched television together, then I had a nap and Lee made a massive shepherd’s pie!

Mum’s perspective I started having contractions at about 2am on Thursday morning. Having already gone through what to expect with my midwife, I tried to stay in bed and get some rest. I rang the Aveta team to let them know I was in early labour but that I was fine and didn’t need anyone to come out. The on-call midwife was reassuring and told me to call back if anything changed.

At about 10.30am I rang the team again and asked for someone to come out to assess me. As it was my first labour, I felt I needed to have some idea of what was going on. I was about 2cm dilated; the midwife said I

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By early evening my contractions had started to become stronger, so I rang the Aveta team again to let them know. Luckily my named midwife was on-call; she examined me to find that my cervix was 5cm dilated making me officially in active labour! At this point I decided to get into the pool, the water felt amazing and definitely helped me to relax, although by the time the midwife had collected the Entonox, I was definitely in need of it.

My contractions started to get stronger, I didn’t need to think of what I should be doing, my body just took over. I was pushing my baby down with such immense pressure and I had no control over it.

During the labour, my midwife remained mainly hands off, she checked the baby’s heart rate throughout but I didn’t need to get out of the pool so it wasn’t disruptive. When it was time to call the second midwife, while she was on the phone, I told Lee I

was sure I could feel my baby’s head!

The midwife put a mir ror into the pool and we were all surprised to find that the head was nearly ou t!

After a few more contra ctions, at 1.3 0am, Harrison shot ou t into the water! I fished him out an d held him close. I say ‘he’ but for the first few minutes we were so in aw e that we didn’t even check to see if he was a boy or girl! He was gorge ous!

Dad’s perspective al when Claire said I was quite sceptic g into having she had been lookin ht that, given a homebir th. I thoug by, we would as it was our first ba the maternity in fer probably be sa e. As we read ward or bir th centr tion from the up and got informa and talking to es zin internet, maga itely changed other people, I defin big things for my mind. One of the ing in our be of a me was the ide to make for a home environment r. The second more relaxed labou proximity to the the s consideration wa 5 minutes away, in hospital, as we live mplications. case there were co was really to keep My role in the bir th t her by making Claire calm, suppor inks and that we dr d, sure she had foo ch as possible were keeping as mu t forgetting filling to the bir th plan. No pool to keep it at the and topping up which kept me a nice temperature, quite busy!

I sat in the pool until the cord had stopped pulsating. Lee cut the cord and enjoyed some skin to skin with Harrison while the place nta was delivered. My midwife sup ported me with Harrison’s first fee d, ran me a bath and tidied up. Lee and I then went to bed, with Harrison in his bedside crib. We were alo ne, with our perfect baby, in our own home and we’d never felt happier.

a particularly The homebir th was so much so that good experience, te to go down we would not hesita ld we decide to ou sh te the same rou . One thing I have have more children rly impressed with, also been particula have only been to is the fact that we ce Harrison’s bir th the hospital once sin ich couldn’t be for a hearing test, wh . done at home

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Questions to ask a Nursery Choosing a nursery can be an emotional decision. Most parents struggle with feeling a little guilty and everyone wants to choose the best childcare setting for their child. It is often worth visiting a number of different nurseries to find the one that suits you and your family best.

First impressions are important and a nursery should be clean, warm and welcoming with friendly, confident staff. Bringing your child with you on such a visit is a great idea as it will allow them to see the nursery, play with the toys and meet the staff.

s of what to look for: Here are a few sug gestion ted. their latest ose is registered with Ofs Ensure the nurser y you cho ation cer tificate on display and you can ask to see tion-repor ts/ istr pec reg ins ir uk/ the They should have t at ww w.ofsted.gov. ad a copy prior to your visi Ofsted report or downlo find-inspection-repor t ff to children? d during break and What are the ratios of sta the recommended ratios and are they maintaine to Does the nurser y ere ns? are qualificatio Does the nurser y adh of staff hold relevant childc focus on the children? e tag cen per at Wh es? ers to lunch tim w the childcare practition employ suppor t staff to allo ? asures of the nurser y like g and on outings?

What are the security me ed for safely in the buildin lect your child? car is ld chi r you ure ens How does the nurser y horised person may col place to ensure only an aut What procedures are in provided? regularly?

What sor ts of meals are and does the menu change ed par pre Are they freshly outdoor play? physical re for children to access ironment promote healthy What opportunities are the env the m the rooms? Does Is there direct access fro development? py and positive one? smile at each other and Is the environment a hap yourself: Do the children for e erv ise? Are the obs can you itive reinforcement and pra This is something e the children plenty of pos of play equipment for them to use with giv ff sta the Do ff? sta the iety ccupied and is there a var children happy and well-o the staff smile and acknowledge visitors?

Do ? staff and independently ut your child nt to know from you?

What does the nurser y wa . The more information the nurser y staff have abo they can tailor ter ant ort bet imp the y al), larl dic ticu me par or is This dietar y nts they may have. (e.g. and any special requireme ld. chi r their provision to suit you children and parents? induction process for new tling in before Does the nurser y have an be invited to spend some time in the nurser y set y, its staff and ser uld nur sho en the in ldr st chi tru and ld Parents ld to bui It allows the parent and chi already there. they start at the nurser y. s ent h the children and par also build relationships wit

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in the How are the parents involved y? nurser visits from Does the nurser y welcome ents to par age our enc and s ent par y? Does the become par t of the nurser s’ evenings ent par nurser y have regular can be ss gre pro ld’s chi ir when the discussed? price?

What else is included in the nappies / Do the childcare fees cover etc? am cre sun / k wipes / mil your area For a full list of nurseries in n’s ldre Chi al loc r contact you Information Ser vice.

Information supplied by The Ark Nursery, Mytholmroyd

Est. 2002

Magical Children’s Day Nursery o Dedicated Baby Area with 1:2

staff to child ratio o Healthy meals cooked in 5* kitchen o Free 3 - 4 year funded places o Forest School

The Ark, Dean Hey Farm, Mytholmroyd, HX7 5RU

www.thearkexperience.co.uk T 01422 882010 7am – 6.30pm

Providence - Day Nursery •

Providence Day Nursery in Elland, West Yorkshire, provides Ofsted

graded Outstanding childcare for children from 3 months to 5 years old on either a part time or full time basis

•

At Providence we believe that all children are unique. Each child will have their own interests, their own pace for learning and each will have their own set of achievements and milestones. We are here to ensure that we provide a safe, secure, supportive and encouraging environment for your child to do all of these things. We will treat your child as the individual that they are

•

Our parents constantly refer to Providence as a home from home. We believe that parents are not looking for clinical facilities for their children but a homely yet professional and nurturing environment.

•

Small baby rooms with no more than six children mean that we are able to offer a home from home environment and a pleasant transition experience for young babies. Every baby has their own routine which is dictated by our parents. The babies are involved in some wonderful activities and the team and children can regularly be seen around Elland when they are on one of their lovely walks

•

Our menus are always available to parents and we regularly have parents ask for recipes based on feedback from their children. We have our fruit and vegetables delivered three times per week from a local farm and the same applies to our dairy produce.

Providence Street, Elland, HX5 9DL E: providencenursery@firstforchildcare.com T: 01422 379300

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Our established Nanny Agency covers Huddersfield & surrounding areas & we provide: • Reliable and professional Nannies, Mother’s Help and Babysitters • Relevant childcare qualifications &/or min 2 years childcare experience

Promote your business in the next issue of The Best Start Magazine

Prices from £34 per issue* (conditions apply)

Reach over 10,000 new parents in Calderdale & Kirklees

• DBS checked and excellent references Call Rachel Bradley on 01484 645621 or 07557 787 119 rachel@handhnannies.co.uk www.huddersfieldandholmfirthnannies.co.uk

Buy designer brands such as Baby Boden, Ralph Lauren, Jasper Conran and Ted Baker for up to 90% less than original prices at Little n Lovely – the Quality Pre-Loved Baby Boutique.

Many top quality high-street labels also stocked. Items are graded according to their quality and many are unworn. Items are uploaded every week. Check it out!

www.littlenlovely.co.uk 26

Have you set any parenting resolutions?

Have you started the New Year with plans to be a better parent, its hard work isn’t it? Parenting is the easiest thing to comment on and yet, the hardest thing to do.

ToddlerCalm ™ workshops don’t tell you how to parent your toddler, they help you to understand your toddler’s brain development and shows you ways to avoid and handle most difficult toddler behaviour. We look at the science of tantrums and how to encourage your toddler to grow into a kind, thoughtful and independent child.

As well as this we address concerns around biting, hitting, throwing, eating and potty training as well as helping parents to prepare in advance for the toddler years. We promise that you will find this introductory workshop truly refreshing and eye opening!

We will cover topics on: • How to stop toddler biting • How to stop toddler hitting • How to encourage your toddler to share • How to encourage your toddler to listen to you • How to stop toddler whining • How to encourage your ‘terrible twos’ to be more ‘terrific twos’ and ‘threes’ and ‘fours’ Suitable for all parents of all 1 to 4 year olds. This workshop can also be taken in advance of the toddler years, helping you to learn the skills of toddler calming whilst your little one is still a baby!

ToddlerCalming Workshop Saturday 11th April 2015 9.30 -12.30pm, £35 per couple, Premier Inn, Salterhebble, Halifax

For details of your local classes contact Andrea andrea@thebeststart.co.uk or 07711 964658 ToddlerCalm™ turns mainstream parenting /thebeststart techniques on their head and offers a @thebeststart genuine alternative to raising your toddler.

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Pre & Postnatal Pilates classes at The iPilates Elite Studios

A wonderful way to get in shape and support the physical demands of your body through pregnancy and birth. Our prenatal sessions can be on a 1-1 basis with just yourself, or shared with your partner, in preparation for when your baby has arrived. We will take you through each trimester, working with your ever-changing body and posture.

Our 1-1 prenatal sessions are £35 hour.

How soon can you start exercising after having your baby?

You can start pelvic floor exercises and activation of your deep abdominals almost immediately, although these must be done gently and with control.

We practice muscle to bone connection and breathing during pregnancy, this exercise can be continued again almost straight after giving birth.

It is always best to get the advice of a health professional or a movement instructor with pre & postnatal qualifications, if you are not sure how to locate your pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscles.

A general guideline is to wait six weeks after a natural birth and eight weeks after a caesarean birth before you start on an exercise regime.

However it very much depends on the individual and how fit you were before and during your pregnancy.

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It can be hard to take time out for yourself with a new baby, are there exercises mothers can do at home or with their babies?

This is why we started our mother and baby classes, time for you where your baby can come along too. Our classes start with settling your baby in on the baby mat next to yours, with some gentle sensory activities. Then we start the Pilates for mum, supporting you to feel really relaxed so that breaking off to feed and cuddle throughout is part of the programme. After 35 minutes of Pilates, we spend time on the baby equipment, which is designed for sensory, balance and movement development. We also encourage one or two exercises that can be done at home between classes.

About Helen Helen Wragg started her career as a professional dancer and choreographer. She also runs a dance company, which provides movement and dance tuition in educational settings.

Helen has been practicing and teaching Pilates for over 12 years.

Now a Polestar Pilates reformer teacher, qualified in pre- and postnatal level 3 Pilates, she is studying to become a fully comprehensive rehabilitation Polestar Pilates body worker. Helen opened the iPilates Elite Studio in August 2013 and, along with her experienced team, hosts classes for all levels as well as ‘Mother and Baby’ Postnatal Pilates and Pregnancy Pilates.

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MOTHER TO BE MASSAGE

10% OFF £50.40 (NORMALLY £56)

Full body pregnancy massage from head to foot, all performed safely on a special pregnancy beanbag, supported by the NCT. Let the weight of your baby be rested whilst you drift away into deep comfort and relaxation!

75 minute treatment with this advert. Terms and conditions apply.

Bring advert to redeem. Perfect from 12 weeks to full term.

To book call us on

01422 385125 2 ALBION STREET | HALIFAX | HX1 1DU tweet us

@saksbeauty1

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What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag The day you have been waiting for has arrived and you’re about to go to hospital to have your baby. This is not a time when you want to be worrying about packing bags for yourself, your new baby and your birthing partner!

For You:

For Baby:

m Maternity notes and Birth Plan

m Nappies and nappy sacks

m Something comfy to wear in labour m Warm socks m Towel (dark coloured!)

m Cotton wool or re-useable wipes m Vests x 3 m Baby grows x 3

m Face cloth / facial spritzer

m Scratch mittens

m m m m m

Lipsalve Hair bands, clips Bach’s Rescue Remedy spray Unscented massage oil Bottle(s) of water

m m m m m

Hat Lightweight blanket Muslin square or two Car seat Depending on the weather, a coat

m m m m m m m m m m m m

Straws for the water Birth Music TENS machine Own pillow or pillowcase Nightie / pyjamas Light dressing gown Slippers / flip flops Toiletries Cheap cotton knickers Large-size maternity pads Nursing bra and breast pads Book / magazines

or all in one to go home in

m m m m

Arnica homeopathy Clothes to wear home Lavender Witch-hazel

It’s a good idea to get th e bags packed well in advan ce of your due date!

For Partner: m m m m m m m m m m

Snacks / drinks Clean top and pants Camera and charger Wash bag Swimwear for birthing pool Books / magazines Money for car park machine Mobile phone and charger Own ipod and headphones Paracetamol / other painkillers

m Contact numbers of who to ring first

If you’re having a home birth it can be really useful to have your things in one place. It makes it easier for your midwife or birthing partner to find everything, instead of having to direct them around the house.

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MOTHER ’S DAY OFF ER!

Trial class 1/2 price thro ughout March

Keep fit, get back into shape and bring baby along too!

Fun and friendly classes focusing on postnatal specific exercises.

Mums of all fitness levels welcome.

Sessions can be joined as early as 6–10 weeks after the birth.

Get fit whilst meeting new friends for baby and you in the fresh air!

“Buggy 4 Fitness classes are great. Not only have I lost almost two stones in weight in just six months, I’m actually now fitter and weigh less than I did before I got pregnant!”

Lisha, mum of two.

Classes held at: Manor Heath, Savile Park Halifax

•

www.buggy4fitness.co.uk

• • •

Wellholme Park Brighouse

•

NEW INDOOR CLASS Starting Friday 6th March 10 - 11am at Play Palace, Halifax

The Stray Hipperholme Mill Fold Recreation Park Ripponden

info@buggy4fitness.co.uk

or call Buggy 4 Fitness founder and principal trainer Sharon on

07825 706 983

Follow us on Facebook /buggy4fitnesscalderdale