Baby London January/February 2018

blondon b JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

BABYLONDON.CO.UK

Wonder woman GAL GADOT

on her family & new-found fame

YOUR BREASTFEEDING QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Find your

Pass the cake!

Zita West on your pregnancy diet

HOW YOU CAN BEAT MORNING SICKNESS All wrapped up Cute and cosy fashion for wintry days

FIRST STEPS How to pick your nursery in the capital

W IR !

A SPA BN E AK FOR TW O WORTH

£900

BALANCE

• HOW TO EXERCISE AFTER BABY ARRIVES • HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS FAMILY RECIPES • REDISCOVER YOUR RELATIONSHIP

£3.99

Dear London, Our Bagshot store is open...

Online & In-store: www.naturalbabyshower.co.uk

“The eco & ethical home of nursery furniture, pushchairs, car seats, clothing, toys and much more! Come in-store for a unique shopping experience - road test, browse and demo with our expert advisors, while your little ones play in our toddler area.”

-Victoria

Founder & Mum

1 MINUTE FROM M3 - JUNCTION 3

WINDLEBROOK HOUSE, GUILDFORD ROAD, BAGSHOT, SURREY, GU19 5NG

Sleep small.

We believe that everybody deserves the perfect start, including new additions to the family. That’s why we made the eve baby mattress. It’s suitable from birth to six years and available in both cot and cot bed sizes.

It’s breathable, it’s supportive, it’s everything your little one needs in a mattress. Plus with our specialised waterproof panel it protects against those small accidents.

We also donate 15% of profits on the baby mattress to The Lullaby Trust, who provide expert advice on safer sleeping for babies. With free delivery and a 30 night home trial, what’s not to love?

evemattress.co.uk

CONTENTS JAN UARY/FEBRUARY 2018

wom fe wonder : A real-li 2) .5 (p Gal Gadot rm ble fo of formida

40

an

25

River wears cashmere leggings, £95, Blue Almonds.

Leather moccasins, £42, Amy & Ivor. Cashmere blanket, £169, Brora.

PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY

FEATURES

52 WONDER MUM Hollywood actress Gal Gadot gets real about motherhood 56 LITTLE LONDON AWARDS 2017 Meet our winners and go behind the scenes of our fun-filled party 68 STRONG LIKE MUM Athlete and postnatal fitness expert Shakira Akabusi on how to approach exercise after baby is born 70 BEHIND THE BRAND: BODEN Danielle Wilkins meets the label’s head of childrenswear design, Harriet Earle 78 PLAYING HAPPY FAMILIES Discover the secrets to a blissful relationship, post-baby 92 MORNING, NOON AND NIGHT The facts behind your morning sickness, and how to manage it

38

98 THE CORE OF THE MATTER How much do you know about diastasis recti? It could be time to find out 118 CRACKING THE DAY CARE CODE Here’s how to choose the right nursery for your little one

STYLE

40 BUNDLE UP, BABY! Snuggle together in style with super-soft layers and luxury knits 65 COLD COMFORTS This season’s athleisurewear edit offers the perfect blend of workout gear and everyday pieces

SHOPPING

23 BABY LONDON LOVES Nab this sophisticated set just in time for Valentine’s Day… 29 SHOP THE SEASON New-season fashion and Check out the newest releases for baby’s bookshelf

aww-inspiring pastel pieces for baby’s first nursery 84 GET YOUR GLOW BACK Easy beauty hacks for brighter skin, plus the innovative new face masks 104 BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE Take your pick from these feeding chairs to ensure ultimate comfort – however late you’re up

FOOD & TRAVEL

107 FOOD NEWS The latest offerings for little diners 108 EAT YOUR GREENS Get baby’s weaning off to a healthy start with these veg-packed recipes 113 TRAVEL NEWS The newest updates and escapes for young families 114 POSTCARD FROM MALLORCA Rhiane Kirkby sees a whole new side to the Mediterranean hotspot

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 5

Editor-in-Chief Kate Freud Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Features Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West

108

Publisher Caroline Scott Finance Director Vicki Gavin Digital Media Manager James Dobson

REGULARS

15

21

33

37

38

50

63 75

81

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small WIN! AN OVERNIGHT SPA STAY AT CLIVEDEN HOUSE We couldn’t think of anywhere we’d rather be this January…

MY ESSENTIALS Aurelia skincare founder Claire Vero shares her motherhood must-haves and pregnancy indulgences DATES FOR YOUR DIARY What’s going on this January and February IT’S ALL NEW Brighten up bedtimes with the latest books for baby INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION Soon-to-be mum of two Nicky Stedman reveals her interiors icons MATERNITY FASHION NEWS Do bump style right – here’s how TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus, we review the new and improved Uppababy Vista PARTY TIME: BOY OR GIRL? Will you find out? Carole Middleton is

Head of Market Freddy Halliday Advertising Manager James Waldron Sales Executive Caroline Kimber

What goes on behind the scen es at Mini o a t a fi .

83 87

89

91

94

97

100

103 117

121

130

6 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

104

here to help you plan the ultimate gender-reveal celebration HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS What’s new in the world of wellbeing Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert gives the lowdown on what you should be eating (and when) during pregnancy THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ This issue we ask, when is the right time to stop breastfeeding, and who should make the decision?

DIARY OF A MUM Martha Alexander ponders competitive parenting and the politics of raising a girl MEET THE EXPERTS Our healthcare professionals answer your burning questions TIME TO TALK The Bump Class discuss the benefits of having a water birth THE REVIEW The kitchen essentials worth investing in for baby’s weaning journey INTERIOR NEWS Stylish updates and inspiring finds EDUCATION NEWS The latest from London classrooms and beyond MINI AGENDA What’s going on in the capital over the next two months INSPIRE Talking business with the brilliant Björn Jakobson, founder of Swedish brand BabyBjörn

Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby London is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: babylondon.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: babylondon@chelseamagazines.com

Baby London Print ISSN 2040-8552 Online ISSN 2059-982X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2017 All rights reserved

SUBSCRIBE

Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive Baby London magazine for a year, delivered straight to your door all for just £19.50.

PLUS we’ll send you a Cheeky Chompers MultiMuslin worth £28.99, absolutely FREE! Simply visit:

webscribe.co.uk/magazine/ babylondon

01442 820 580 Back Issues chelseamagazines.com/shop

PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: RIVER River wears cashmere cardigan, £125, Blue Almonds.

Knitted dralon bonnet, £26, Pepa & Co.

Hej! Welcome to Newbie

A Swedish lifestyle brand for your little ones.

Newbie is all about timeless, sustainable and affordable clothes which are built to last; perfect for little ones who love to play, learn and explore.

Newbie products are made using 100% sustainable, organic and recycled materials.

@newbielovers #newbiestore

newbiestore.com 28 George Street, Richmond 17 Church Street, Kingston

Mori’s range of cosy and comfortable sleepwear is designed to protect baby’s sensitive skin From a selection babymori.com

Rose gold earrings £575, astleyclarke.com

EDITORS

LETTER

Soft toy mouse £20, mothercare.com

KATE FREUD, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

Join me online…

Babylondonmagazine

@Baby_London

@babylondonmagazine

O

L

Moumout cotton muslin swaddle £17, en.smallable.com

P-TO-DAT

• B A BY

We’d love to hear what you think about our latest issue

PU

ISIT • E, V

KEE

Cashmere cardigan £185, mariechantal.co.uk

an insightful look at morning sickness and how to cope with it (p.92), while Zita West talks pregnancy nutrition and what to eat and when during those key nine months (p.87) and The Bump Class’s Marina Fogle and Chiara Hunt discuss the merits of water births (p.97).

Danielle Wilkins goes for a sneak peak behind the scenes at one of our favourite labels, Boden (p.70) and we meet Björn Jakobson, the brains behind BabyBjörn, who started his inimitable brand in 1961 at the age of just 27 (p.130).

If you’re looking for the cosiest winter fashions for your little one, you’ll love our hygge-inspired shoot full of fresh ideas for the new year (p.40) and we’ve put together a chic edit of the cutest finds for baby in the softest shades of cream, blue, green and pink (p.25).

And last but not least, we give you a peek inside our Little London 2017 awards, held at Grace Belgravia, and reveal all the winners and runners-up (p.56). Congratulations to all those who won and everyone who took part!

ND

UK

Cotton shirt and dungarees set £32, johnlewis.com

Happy new year and welcome to Baby London’s first issue of 2018! After an over-indulgent Christmas period, our perennial list of new year’s resolutions has been reinstated; exercise more, spend less, relax more, eat less, the list goes on. And as ever, this year we’re determined to keep them! If you are too, take inspiration on the fitness front from the extraordinarily gym-honed Shakira Akabusi who offers plenty of advice for ways to exercise around your baby (p.68). We meet Hollywood’s very own Wonder Woman, Gal Gadot, who – with two young daughters and a glittering career – seems to be juggling it all with aplomb (p.52), and we catch up with Aurelia skincare’s founder Claire Vero, who effortlessly combines parenthood with running a successful business (p.33).

In other news, we review the must-have products to get you through the messy chaos of weaning (p.100), and cherry pick the best breastfeeding chairs so you can feed in comfort (p.104). On that note, Clare ByamCook explains when and how you should stop breastfeeding, and whether you or baby should decide when the time is right (p.89).

Our friends at The Portland Hospital take

O N .C O

.

@baby_london

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 9

Where were you born?

I was born in Sevenoaks, Kent.

What do you love about living in London?

I can walk everywhere! And there’s such a strong sense of community where we live in Wandsworth – I feel so uplifted by that.

Any resolutions for 2018?

To be less judgemental, and instead use all that energy to nurture my children’s self-esteem.

Georgina discovers how to find your perfect nursery on p.118

Where were you born?

St Thomas’ Hospital in Lambeth, but I grew up on a farm in County Durham.

What do you love about living in London?

London has an energy about it that makes you feel anything is possible. It always comes out on top as the most exciting place to be.

What are your resolutions for 2018?

To talk less and listen more. It’s about time…

Martha shares the rules for a happy postbaby relationship on p.78

MAR INA

MART HA

NDER , JO UR E XA AL

T LIS NA

EY, LASK JOURN AB

IST AL

GEOR GI N

CONTRIBUTORS G FO

LE, JOURNALI ST

Where were you born?

South Kensington.

What do you love about living in London?

Its green spaces. In fact, I met my husband while we were walking our dogs in Hyde Park.

What are your resolutions for 2018?

To not raise my voice with my children. They never respond to shouting, so there’s no point but it’s also easier said than done – mine are experts at winding me up!

Marina talks water births on p.97

UK

LO

O.

B • BA

Y

When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment

-TO-DATE, UP

IT • VIS

KEEP

BABY LONDON ONLINE N D O N.

C

Head online to discover great competitions and giveaways it could be your lucky day!

From choosing a nanny to exclusive weaning recipes, we’ve got expert advice on all areas of parenting

Join in We want to see your pics of you and your little ones enjoying Baby London

Be sure to stay updated with the latest news and talking points

#BLLOVES facebook.com/babylondonmagazine twitter.com/baby_london instagram.com/babylondonmagazine uk.pinterest.com/baby_london babylondon.co.uk

10 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

ew N lle Co on cti

Inspired

by Nature

Perla Collection

With its two-toned design and angled feet, the Perla makes a stunning edition to any Scandi-style nursery. Crafted from premium quality wood, you can be sure the Perla will withstand family life and when the time comes, it can be transformed into a secure toddler bed.

www.boori.com/uk

Follow us @booricollections

5 year warranty

Premium grade wood

H T A B E H T N I S H MORE LAUG

be sm iles better . d ul o sh es m ti th ba W e be li ev e

is packed fu ll th ba le bb bu by ba r Th at ’s w hy ou sp ec ially deve lo ped d an ts n ie ed gr in d o f nat ur ally de ri ve s an d litt le o n es. to care fo r n ew bo rn ze m a- pr o n e skin . ec r o ve ti si n se r en su itable fo It ’s so m ild, it ’s ev , ith m o re laugh ti m es w es m ti th ba t an w So if yo u th e revolu tio n . f o en dr il ch e th jo in ch ilds farm .co m

Olivia

PHOTOGRAPHED BY HELEN MARSDEN

Sixteen-month-old Olivia Belle lives in Richmond. Her favourite things are food, playing with dollies and her toy buggy. She also loves reading The Gruffalo babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 13

More milk for your baby, more time for both of you.

The innovative double pump technology in the Medela Swing Maxi helps you pump more energy packed milk, in less time.

Proud pioneers of breastfeeding innovation since 1965.

ZZZ PHGHOD FR XN

0HGHOD 6ZLQJ 0D[L

Pump more milk in less time, thanks to our 2-Phase Expression Technology* Journal of Human Lactation 18 (4) 2002 “Effect of Vacuum Profile on Breast Milk Expression Using an Electric Breast Pump.�

*

baby

NEWS

NEWS

U PDATING YOU ON ALL THINGS GR E AT AN D SMALL

TRÈS BON!

O-DATE, V P-T

.U K CO

• BA

BY

• ISIT

KEEP U

Super-stylish French label Bonton has opened its first UK store in Notting Hill.

Launched in Paris back in 2001, and now with stockists across the globe, here you’ll find colourful clothing for little ones of all ages, as well as toys, nursery furniture and accessories, all with a healthy dose of fun and fantasy. It’s about to become your new favourite place for everything baby and child.

235 Westbourne Grove, bonton.fr

LO N D O N

.

OPENING IN FARRINGDON THIS FEBRUARY, CUCKOOZ NEST IS THE NEW WORKSPACE COMBINING CO-WORKING OFFICES WITH FLEXIBLE, AFFORDABLE CHILDCARE. WHILE YOU WORK, LITTLE ONES GET TO ENJOY THE CRÈCHE THAT IS RUN IN THE SAME BUILDING BY REGISTERED NANNIES. YOU CAN BOOK SLOTS BY THE HOUR, FROM £10 PER HOUR. CUCKOOZNEST.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 15

NEWS

THERE’S A NEWBIE IN TOWN Swedish childrenswear brand Newbie has arrived in the UK with a new store in Richmond. With affordable clothes and accessories for boys and girls, from newborn to eight years, there’s a focus on print – which this season is inspired by botanical florals.

28 George Street, newbiestore.com

FIT FOR A PRINCESS

Silver Cross and Marie-Chantal have come together to create a luxury collection for baby. The range, which includes three styles of pram, a cot bed, chest of drawers and baby bedding, has been designed to reflect Marie-Chantal’s classic childrenswear, and is inspired by English heritage colours and classic cars. Expect plenty of cream, grey flannel and tweed, with tan leather trims and the designer’s signature angel wing motif. Available from spring, silvercrossbaby.com

IF THE SHOE FITS Baby’s first steps are something you’ll want to remember forever. With every purchase from Bobux’s range of Step Up shoes, you’ll receive a keepsake cotton dust bag and leather swing tag; once your toddler grows out of them, add their name and walking date, and store to be treasured for years to come. bobux.co.uk

WIN!

A LUXURY COT BED QUILT FROM THE WHITE COMPANY, WITH METANIUM During the winter, there’s nothing quite like a quilt for extra comfort, particularly if your little one is under the weather. You could be in with a chance of winning this lovely Noah’s Ark design from The White Company, worth £85, along with Metanium goodies.

If your baby has a cold, this can be a trigger for nappy rash and using a barrier ointment such as Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment or Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier will help protect her delicate skin. If nappy rash does strike, Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is specifically designed to treat it. Always read the label. metanium.co.uk Enter online at babylondon.co.uk/competitions

16 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

ALL SMILES NOW According to a new study by C&G Baby Club, 65 per cent of mums are convinced their baby experiences a ‘witching hour’ – a period typically between 5pm and 6pm where they’re cranky.

In response, C&G is rereleasing The Happy Song, a track that’s been proven to lift the spirits of irritable infants. soundofhappy.com

NI NE I NTH E M I R R O R .CO M

NEWS

GIVING BACK

From Babies With Love has announced a partnership with international charity Street Child; together they will support the 32,000 children impacted by the Boko Haram conflict in north east Nigeria. The retailer will fund three child-friendly spaces in the region, helping kids to overcome trauma and identify potential foster parents. All profits made by From Babies With Love goes towards this worthy cause, so get shopping! frombabieswithlove.org

SOCIAL SHOPPING Expect your monthly childrenswear spend to rise from now on, thanks to Childrensalon’s new app. With instant access to more than 280 brands, plus exclusive offers for in-app purchases and access to competitions, sales and brand launches, online shopping has never been so easy. Free, apple.com/itunes

TINY TOTS Frugi has launched a new line of organic clothing for its littlest customers. The My First Frugi collection caters for smaller babies, with sizes starting at ‘Tiny Baby’ (5-6lbs) and ranging up to 6-12 months. The delicate colour palette features smaller scale prints and appliqués, with new styles including muslin dungarees and reversible cardigans. From £7, welovefrugi.com

18 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

BOX OF TRICKS The monthly subscription box from mamaME makes a perfect gift for new mums. Each package contains five indulgent treats, from make-up and jewellery to books and luxury chocolate. Boxes are themed on the time of year, too – the January package is all about self-care, with a hair mask, pillow spray and more. From £15 a month, mamamebox.co.uk

NEED TO KNOW… Get all your questions answered with the useful new e-book from skincare experts Mama Mio. Mama You’ve Got This: An Honest Guide to Pregnancy covers all bases – from sex to mental health, fashion to food, there’s 270 interactive pages of knowledge and advice. Available online now as a free download. mioskincare.co.uk

WINTER PROOF Be ready for a sudden drop in temperature with Aden + Anais’ new range of buggy blankets. Made with four layers of pure cotton muslin – which just so happens to get softer with every wash – the five new prints include blue stars, hearts and bicycles.

Perfect for snuggling up in the pushchair, car seat or at home. £25 each, adenandanais.co.uk

LEARN HOW TO CARRY BABY SAFELY AND IN STYLE WITH THE NEW WEAR MY BABY POP-UP BOUTIQUE IN TOOTING. OPEN THURSDAYS, 10AM TO 6PM, EXPERTS ARE ON HAND TO MATCH YOU WITH A CARRIER, TEACH YOU HOW TO USE IT IN THE DAILY WORKSHOPS, AND THERE’S ALSO THE OPTION TO HIRE BEFORE YOU BUY. 19 THRALE ROAD, WEARMYBABY.CO.UK/BOUTIQUE

CAT’S CRADLE

The latest range from Vild House of Little is just purr-fect for your little kittens. The brand has teamed up with Puss Puss magazine – a publication for culture, fashion and cat lovers – to create a new jungle cat illustration print, with leopards, panthers and tigers hiding amongst the foliage. Shop a range of bodysuits, jackets, hats and leggings in the design, with each sale resulting in a donation to paediatric AIDS charity mothers2mothers. From £15, vildhouseoflittle.com The imaginative new collection boasts bold illustrations on c t fi o a c mat a

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 19

NEWS SLEEP SPACE Naturalmat’s Notting Hill boutique is now even bigger, thanks to a significant expansion. The new showroom has the finest sleeping aids for babies on display – from its signature handmade mattresses to organic bedding, furniture, toys and sleepwear. If you’ve got a nursery to decorate, consider this your one-stop shop. 99 Talbot Road, naturalmat.co.uk

HAPPY HIT

Give yourself a little confidence boost every day with the latest collaboration from Jem + Bea and the London Hypnobirthing Company. The pair’s collection of leather cardholders feature positive affirmations from the YesMum card range. There’s two nylon styles for little ones, too.

From £16, jemandbea.com

THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAS LAUNCHED AN INITIATIVE TO INCREASE HEALTHY PREGNANCIES AND HALVE THE RATE OF STILLBORN BABIES BY 2025. THE NEW MEASURES WILL INTRODUCE MORE RIGOROUS INVESTIGATION INTO CASES OF STILLBIRTH AND INJURY DURING LABOUR, AND ENABLE SHARED LEARNING BETWEEN THE ROYAL COLLEGES AND THE NHS. DH.GOV.UK

BEST OF THE BLOGS

The internet is awash with information but these brilliant bloggers cut to the chase with honest and practical advice

Blogger Sophie Osborne is on a mission to seek out the best independent stores for families

ROCK MY FAMILY

STACEY CLARE

INDIE & POP

Part of the Rock My Ltd group – which includes Rock My Style and Rock My Wedding – Rock My Family offers support to mums who are navigating the highs and lows of parenting. The website features posts from a host of talented writers and stylish mums – from nursery tours and fashion edits to discussion posts and product reviews. And if you’re clueless when it comes to cool kids’ brands, browse the ‘shop’ tab for a directory of the best places to indulge in a little retail therapy. rockmyfamily.co.uk

Self-confessed foodie, Stacey is mum to two small boys, with another on the way. She studied nutrition after welcoming her first child, and is now a qualified health coach, helping other mums achieve optimum wellness through food. You may not be able to hire her yourself (she’s based in Sydney), but her blog has a wealth of healthy recipes for the whole family – from one-pot dinners to smoothies and healthy desserts. staceyclare.com

Freelance writer Sophie Osborne lives in Cambridgeshire and runs her blog while looking after young daughter, Poppy. As a self-confessed middle ground ‘between Mary Portas and Mary Poppins’, her content is focused on curating a ‘conscious but chic’ style for her family, scouring the best independent shops for quality pieces. Her witty writing style and fabulous fashion picks will have you coming back for more. indieandpop.com

20 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Take to the water in style at the breathtaking new Cliveden Spa

WIN!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: PRIZE IS VALID FOR 12 MONTHS AFTER THE COMPETITION CLOSING DATE. BOOKABLE SUNDAY TO THURSDAY ONLY, EXCLUDING HOLIDAYS. SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY.

AN OVERNIGHT SPA STAY AT CLIVEDEN HOUSE C

liveden House was once home to the first female MP, Nancy Astor – and several dukes and duchesses before her – and now you, too, can enjoy a taste of the high life at this five-star country pad in Berkshire. It’s become the ultimate place to unwind, with its award-winning spa opening last summer. So if a touch of R&R in a luxury setting is what you’re after, look no further.

If you can entice yourself away from the cosy comfort of your room, start your day in the Cliveden Spa; a tranquil oasis tucked away in the walled garden. Breathe in the surrounding roses and lavender as you swim

in the infamous Profumo pool – the last remaining listed outdoor pool in England, or sink into an outdoor hot tub and while away the hours with a good book.

If you’re expecting, you’ve come to right place. Let the therapists massage away your aches and pains with one of its specially formulated pregnancy treatments.

Meanwhile, if you’re feeling a little more energised, make the most of the spa’s state-of-the-art gym, which features

a stimulating timetable of classes, including ballet barre and yoga, or enjoy a stressbusting stomp around the 376 acres of National Trust grounds.

Best of all, we’ve teamed up with Cliveden House to offer readers the chance to experience all of this for free.

One lucky winner will enjoy an overnight stay for two in a deluxe double room, with full English breakfast, use of the spa facilities and classes, and a one-hour treatment for each guest. Good luck!

WORTH £900

To enter, visit babylondon.co.uk/competitions COMPETITION CLOSES 11:59PM ON 15 FEBRUARY 2018. VISIT CLIVEDENHOUSE.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 21

6

SHOPPING

LOVES

This pretty but practical t c o co fi c up a notch like nothing else

A brief encounter Nursing lingerie doesn’t have to feel second best. In fact, this sky-blue set from Heidi Klum Intimates is every bit as desirable as your pre-baby undies, while the drop-down cups detach when the need to feed arises.

We can’t promise they’ll make you look like Heidi, but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t feel like a supermodel – heck, superwoman – in these.

And just in time for Valentine’s Day… Heidi Klum Intimates nursing bra, £38, and briefs, £25, figleaves.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 23

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

Available from leading nursery retailers & www.dreamgenii.com

Marie-Chantal x Silver Cross cot bed available spring 2018, silvercrossbaby.com

Bamboo dinner set £29, mollyandmoo.co.uk

From a selection silvercrossbaby.com Faux fur snowsuit £178, bonpoint.com

Gray Label cotton top £30, thelittlenaturalco.co.uk

Fiona Walker wall decoration £69.99, diddletinkers.co.uk

Merino wool romper £69, bebe-organic.com

Bacabuche faux fur sweater £74, en.smallable.com

SOFT TOUCH

Pick the purest cotton, cashmere and cuddly season’s most versatile shade Cotton crochet blanket £90, wildwawashop.com

Polka Dot Club teddy bear £120, rosesandthestars.com Navetta Elite pushchair £550, uk.pegperego.com

FUB wool sweater £58, cubscartel.com Suede pre-walker shoes £61, cashmirino.com

Cotton babygrow £70, bebebombom.com

Wool smocked dress £183, cashmirino.com

SHOPPING

Wool mobile £49, frenchblossom.com

Hand-painted wooden chair £315, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com Elephant soft toy £22.90, steiff.com

Cashmere sweater £175, mariechantal.co.uk SnüzPouch sleeping bag £36.95, snuz.co.uk

Sleepydoe cotton bodysuit £24, thelittlenaturalco.co.uk

From a selection pepaandcompany.com

Bloomingville cushion £41, en.smallable.com

Cotton romper £34, patachou.com

INTO THE BLUE

Cotton shirt £39, lacoquetakids.com

Suede pre-walker shoes £55, cashmirino.com

From cloud cushions to carriers, and everything in between, reach for the sky with winter’s coolest colour Cashmere mittens £55, cashmirino.com

BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One £114.95, meandbuddy.com

Cotton cardigan £45, bebebombom.com

Cotton dress £52.90, benedita.co.uk

26 | JAN/FEB | babylondon.co.uk Pehr2018 cotton muslin

£14.40, rosesandthestars.com

Kids Concept wooden stacking truck £32, daisiesanddinosaurs.co.uk

Made by Hand in Devon

10% off

your firs t ord

er Q u ote B L17 o nli n e in sto re (o ffer en o r ds 28.02.1 8)

the perfect place for a natural night’s sleep The finest organic and natural fibre mattresses made by hand in Devon, since 2001.

www.naturalmat.co.uk/baby

• •

organic mattresses contemporary furniture

• •

natural bedding gifts

Naturalmat Baby Boutique, 99 Talbot Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2AT

Cotton sweater £17, arket.com Liberty print cotton dress £28, la-petite-collection.com

Zapp Flex Plus pushchair £295, quinny.com

Cotton bodysuit £30, scampanddude.com From a selection thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

Design Letters melamine plate (part of set) £27.95, meandbuddy.com

Seagrass basket £35, olliella.com

HINT OF MINT

Cotton top £25, organic-zoo.com

Sleepyhead of Sweden Deluxe Pod £195, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Refreshing pops of pastel green will wake up baby’s nursery style. Just add print for a thoroughly modern twist The Bonnie Mob soft toy £11, kidly.co.uk

Cotton bodysuit £27.99, trixie-baby.com

BabyBjörn high chair £209, alexandalexa.com

Merino wool bonnet £28, scarletribbonmerino.com Soft toy frog £19.99, zarahome.com

Adidas Originals Stan Smith trainers £35, alexandalexa.com

Linen smocked dress £165, cashmirino.com babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 29

Meri Meri tassel garland £16.50, decobaby.co.uk

From a selection next.co.uk

Nobodinoz cotbed £699, nubie.co.uk

Soft Gallery babygrow £50, cubscartel.com

Lined coat £50, myhbaby.com Design Letters scrapbook £39.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Bonheur Du Jour cotton top £43, milieethector.com

Aden + Anais bib £8, nubie.co.uk

Knitted T-Rex rattle £6.25, bestyears.co.uk

MADE YOU BLUSH From cosy coats to sleeping bags, this season’s fresh crop of rosy hues will put baby in the pink

Leather clutch £45, jemandbea.com

Cotton romper £63, shirleybredal.com

Cotton sleeping bag £20, next.co.uk Cotton dress £75, rachelriley.co.uk

Silicone teether £11.99, foxsfelts.co.uk Kids Concept xylophone £17.50, daisiesanddinosaurs.co.uk

Cotton dungarees £39, lacoquetakids.com

30 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Angulus wool-lined shoes £82, cubscartel.com

Nobodinoz cotton teepee £153.95, scandiborn.co.uk

www.lucyandbelle.com

Discover blissful baby & toddler friendly holidays Everything that parents need for stress free getaways in luxury villas and resorts All private pools barriered

0800 014 2770 www.totstotravel.co.uk

Free 20+ items of baby & toddler kit

30 point child safety check

INTERVIEW

Claire is a fan of Kissy Kissy’s super-soft cotton babygrows Kissy Kissy babygrow £27, childrensalon.com

“Henry was so excited to be a broth er.

He read all the book s!”

The Aurelia founder and her husband Alex celebrated seven years of marriage this year

MY ESSENTIALS CLAIRE VERO

How are you finding life as a mum of two since the arrival of three-month-old Atticus?

It’s a lot busier than I thought!

The biggest challenge is having to watch them both every minute, which is an adjustment from just having an independent three year old. Luckily I have caught several balls heading Atticus’s way in time, and the over-enthusiastic kisses that Henry gives him often need serious supervision!

How did Henry react to becoming a big brother?

The reality is that he loves him one minute, and spends a lot of time talking about him and kissing him, but it’s not all been smooth sailing. Having been a fabulous sleeper since he was tiny, Henry’s sleep is now very disturbed so we do have some tricky moments!

Did you have an enjoyable pregnancy?

I was lucky this time that I didn’t

The founder and CEO of Aurelia skincare talks date night, weekend jaunts and pregnancy indulgences suffer the same morning sickness I had during my first pregnancy – I was sick constantly for the first 12 weeks and found it really tough, especially as Aurelia was in its early stages. I love reflexology, and was lucky enough to have a few treatments while pregnant – The brand launched its children’s line, Little Aurelia, in early 2017

that was my one real indulgence!

How has your work life changed since becoming a mum?

When I had Henry, I came back to work three days a week, which really helped to ease me back into the office. I’m really enjoying

my maternity leave with Atticus, which does feel quite different now there are two little ones to look after, but I’m excited about returning this month [January].

Having my boys has changed my work life considerably; I have grown the Aurelia team so I’m able to delegate more. I worry less about the smaller things.

Which products did you rely on during your pregnancy?

I suffered from dry skin so I immediately increased my use of Epsom salts, and for my skincare routine I started using our Cell Repair Night Oil underneath the Cell Revitalise Night Moisturiser.

I also suffer from melasma [a common skin pigmentation condition] in pregnancy, so this time I exfoliated daily with our Miracle Cleanser. My eyes felt itchy during the first trimester too, so I put our Revitalise & Brighten Eye Dew in the fridge and used it to relieve discomfort.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 33

INTERVIEW

plexnty for the x xx ers cat xoffxx orus l Tr naall The NatioM Claire for ke on ca d pti ca children – an

The family enjoys holidaying in baby-friendly Mallorca

Kisses for Atticus

Where do you like to shop for your boys?

I love Pepa & Co, and I recently bought some lovely things from Scandinavian brand Annaliv. Oeuf NYC jumpers and hats are really different, and I like Kissy Kissy for the softest babygrows. The boys have nicer clothes than I do!

If we were to rummage through your changing bag, what would we find?

Naty nappies; some lavender

34 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

The mum is never short of hand sanitiser while on the go Organic Lavender Hand Sanitizer £4.49, drbronner.co.uk

hand sanitiser; the Comfort & Calm Rescue Cream from Little Aurelia which is perfect for sore bottoms and bruises; a Soft Gallery changing mat and a lot of Nine bars to keep us all going!

What other essentials have proven invaluable for you?

Water Wipes are a must as they are wonderfully pure and don’t

leave any sticky residue. And my BabyBjörn carrier is fabulous; I can get out and about with both boys unrestricted.

Where do you live in London?

I live in Parsons Green – there are so many independent boutiques and restaurants, and there’s a real sense of community. My husband Alex and I have made the decision to move to the countryside next year which will be a huge change of pace but one I’m really looking forward to.

Where do you like to go with the kids on weekends?

We love National Trust houses as they’re always centred on children and they often sell very good cake, which is a weakness of mine!

We love the sea so spend a lot of time at the beach in Salcombe, or in Mallorca. If it’s raining, I like to head to the Emma Bridgewater Pottery Café on Fulham Road.

What about date nights?

We go out every Thursday, usually locally, although we are making more of an effort to maximise our last year here. I recently discovered a great restaurant called Cotton shirt £40, Lorne in Pimlico; it pepaandcompany.com does modern British cuisine and delicious wine pairings.

What does next year have in store for you?

Aurelia will be launching facials and body rituals – the spa is being built right now and we can’t wait for the big reveal!

INTERVIEW: ANNIE QUINTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/CLAIRE.VERO; © NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/CHRIS LACEY

You launched Little Aurelia earlier this year – why did you decide to create a children’s line?

As a mum, I just wanted to create a range of bioorganic skincare that would support our little ones’ wellbeing.

Then, taking inspiration from some of my favourite children’s illustrators, we created a whole world of woodland animal characters and poetry, which I’m hoping will delight children for years to come.

With you every step of the way

BEFORE

DURING PREGNANCY

AFTER

Pregnacare® Conception with 21 nutrients including folic acid as recommended for all women trying to conceive.

Pregnacare® Original with 19 nutrients including folic acid and vitamin D as recommended by the Department of Health.

Pregnacare® Breast-feeding with 21 nutrients including 10mcg vitamin D and 300mg DHA for mums during lactation.1

More than just folic acid

Most trusted by mums2 Most recommended by midwives2,3

ADPRGRANGEP 18-05-17E 2

Helping to make healthy mums and babies for over 25 years, Pregnacare® provides the recommended level of folic acid,4 along with vitamin D which is advised by the UK Department of Health throughout pregnancy.5 It also provides a range of micronutrients, and is supported by unique clinical research with mums-to-be6,7.

From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores &

www.pregnacare.com

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

QUEEN’S AWARD for the INNOVATION supporting the PREGNACARE range

1. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol.18, No.5, 487-489 (1999). 2. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. 3. Based on a survey of 1000 midwives. 4. Folic acid contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Pregnacare® has always contained 400mcg folic acid, the level recommended for all women from the start of trying to conceive until the 12th week of pregnancy. 5. Source: NHS Choices. 6. Agrawal, R. et al. Prospective randomised trial of multiple micronutrients in women undergoing ovulation induction, Reproductive BioMedicine Online December 2011. 7. L Brough et al. Effect of multiple-micronutrient supplementation on maternal nutrient status, infant birth weight and gestational age at birth in a low-income, multi-ethnic population. British Journal of Nutrition (2010), 104, 437-445. *UK’s No.1 pregnancy supplement brand. Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Unit Sales 52 w/e 25 March 2017.

JANUARY 1 HAPPY

NEW YEAR!

Be sure to catch the New Year’s Day Parade along the streets of London from 12pm. londonparade.co.uk

New-year boost

Detox Kitchen and nutritional therapist Amelia Freer have been busy creating their specially formulated Mama Package.

Bursting with goodness, new mothers can tuck into hearty, pre-prepared meals and graze on super snacks to replenish nutrients commonly lacking after birth.

Oh, and it’s delivered to your door daily!

5 NIGHT SHIFT

Ewan the Dream Sheep welcomes a new member to his flock with the launch of the Baa Baa Blankie – a comfort blanket with plush edging that’s perfect for bedtime snuggles. £13.99, sweetdreamers.co.uk

From £37.40 per day, mamadkitchen.com

dates for your

DIARY

7 CLASS ACTS

After the chaos of Christmas, treat yourself to a night out.

Tonight sees the launch of the spectacular Cirque du Soleil: Ovo at the Royal Albert Hall.

From £20, cirquedusoleil.com

8 ROYAL FEVER

Luxury baby gear brand Mima is ready for the upcoming royal arrival with its latest colourway for the Xari pushchair, launching today.

Mima Xari in Royal Blue £1,099, cheeky rascals.co.uk

IT’S FREE!

Antenatal education Check out the new complimentary antenatal classes happening through inspiring online community A Mother Place, founded by Roger Marwood, a newly retired obstetrician and gynaecologist with more than 40 years of experience, and two mothers, Becca Maberly and Emmie Faust. You’ll have easy access to expert advice and webinars on all the important topics, so you can feel prepared and in the know, wherever you are. amotherplace.com

Pens at the ready, we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy for the next two months

23 HEART-Y SNACKS

Share the love with Heavenly’s new organic heart-shaped corn puffs, which have been added to its 12 months + range.

The all-natural snacks blend corn with two wholesome superfood ingredients, including sweet potato and carrot, and apple and strawberry. 69p, Ocado

24 WANDER WEAR

Already dreaming of those long summer days ahead?

Frugi’s SS18 collection launches today featuring travel-inspired prints. Plus, if a beach holiday is on the cards, keep your eyes peeled for its brand new swimwear. welovefrugi.com

FEBRUARY

14 IT’S A

12 TALE TIME

Happy Valentine’s! And now you have a new addition, you have full permission to go as cheesy as possible. Enjoy!

There’s two days of Tales from the Shed silliness at the Royal Albert Hall from today, with live music and puppetry.

From £7, royalalberthall.com

13

FLIPPIN’ TASTY… Frying pans at the ready, folks, Shrove Tuesday is upon us. Head over to babylondon.co.uk for chef Sophie Wright’s delicious, nutritionally balanced ‘pregnancy pancakes’, served with a blueberry compote.

Make a stack and chow down!

LOVE THING

15 WIN BIG!

Today’s your last chance to win prizes online at babylondon. co.uk/competitions

16 SPRING FEST

Expect to see Chinatown bursting with decorations and dancing to mark the start of Chinese New Year 2018, the Year of the Dog. The capital offers the biggest celebrations outside Asia.

Heart-print cotton blouse from £24, petit-bateau.co.uk

It’s all new

Emma O’Donovan IS H ER E TO BRIGHTEN U P YOU R BOOKCASE WITH TH E L ATE ST BOOKS FOR BABY

LITTLE CONCEPTS: ABC FRENCH

By Daniel Roode

Learning the alphabet and French words has never looked more fantastique than in this beautifully stylish book. Colourful and engaging illustrations bring this learning experience to life. £8.99, Quarto Kids

BOOKS

Mr Panda shows little ones how to do bedtime properly!

A TINY LITTLE STORY: FARM

By Lisa Jones and Edward Underwood A delightfully squishy cloth book full of bright farmyard characters.

Perfect for the youngest readers. £10.99, Nosy Crow

CAR, CAR, TRUCK, JEEP

By Katrina Charman and Nick Sharratt

A jam-packed rhyming story about things with wheels, designed to be sung to the tune of Baa Baa Black Sheep. £6.99, Bloomsbury

GOODNIGHT, MR PANDA

By Steve Antony

A wonderfully anarchic

observation of the importance of a proper bedtime routine and the mayhem that ensues if things aren’t done just right. Completely charming and full of fun. £12.99, Hodder Children’s Books

A BEAR IS A BEAR (EXCEPT WHEN HE’S NOT)

By Karl Newson and Anuska Allepuz

Is he a squirrel? Is he a bird?

Bear has woken up with some confusion over his identity. This is a funny and beautifully illustrated story about just being yourself. £6.99, Nosy Crow

SPLISH, SPLASH, DUCKY

By Lucy Cousins

Embrace the inclement weather

and embark on an outdoor adventure with Ducky and friends.

A joy to share on a rainy day. £11.99, Walker Books

A LION IS A LION

By Polly Dunbar

When a devilishly debonair lion comes to visit, he has mischief in mind. A wonderfully raucous read-aloud romp. £11.99, Walker Books

TEN FAT SAUSAGES

By Michelle Robinson and Tor Freeman

This madcap, laugh-out-loud counting book follows the misadventures of 10 sizzling fat sausages on a quest to escape the frying pan. Will they succeed, or will the cat, blender or plug hole be their downfall? £11.99, Andersen Press

DINO DUCKLING

TEN LITTLE FINGERS AND TEN LITTLE TOES

A touching reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of The Ugly Duckling, Dino Duckling’s differences are celebrated, but what will happen when his family fly south for the winter? £6.99, Orchard Books

A glorious celebration of diversity and those precious early parenting moments filled with lots of tickles and play. A perfect first baby gift. £5.99, Walker Books

By Alison Murray

By Mem Fox and Helen Oxenbury

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 39

THIS PAGE: River wears cashmere sweater, £155, Marie-Chantal. Cotton sleeping bag, £59, Numero 74 at Smallable. Grey wool-blend blanket, £60, The Little White Company.

Cream cashmere blanket, £255, Bonpoint. Soft toy, £12, Jellycat.

RIGHT PAGE: Olivia wears cotton sweater, £48, and matching cotton bloomers, £31, both Piu Pia. Cottonblend top (worn underneath), £14, Marie-Chantal for Marks & Spencer.

Wooden spool (set of three), £3.50, Grapat at Babipur.

Bundle up, BABY! PHOTOGR APHY: KEN COPSEY ST YLING: Y VADNEY DAVIS

THIS PAGE: Lana wears wool romper, £46, Pepa & Co. Cashmere sweater, £145, Brora. Cotton-blend tights (pack of three), £9, Marks & Spencer.

Pink cotton-cashmere blanket, £60, The Little White Company. Grey acrylic blanket, £24.99, H&M Home.

RIGHT PAGE: Darcy wears cotton cardigan and leggings set, £80, Mori.

Cotton bodysuit (worn underneath), £38, Oeuf NYC. Knitted dralon bonnet, £26, Pepa & Co. Cashmere booties, £45, Brora. Cashmere blanket, £595, Brora. Wooden alphabet blocks, £48, Ooh Noo at Scandibørn.

THIS PAGE: Darcy wears cotton cardigan, £42, La Coqueta at Liberty.

Cotton blouse (worn underneath), £26, Caramel. Knitted dralon bonnet, £26, Pepa & Co. LEFT PAGE: Charles wears merino wool top, £42, and leggings, £39.50, both Mabli. Knitted vest, £58, Moon Paris. Cotton-blend socks (pack of four), £4, Marks & Spencer.

Cashmere blankets, from £155, Brora.

THIS PAGE: River wears cashmere cardigan, £125, and leggings, £95, both Blue Almonds. Knitted dralon bonnet, £26, Pepa & Co. Leather moccasins, £42, Amy & Ivor.

Cashmere blanket, £169, Brora.

Cotton mobile, £24.95, Liewood at Natural Baby Shower.

LEFT PAGE: Isaac wears knitted dralon sweater, £48, Pepa & Co.

Olivia wears alpaca wool hat, £35, Oeuf NYC. Merino wool cardigan, £60, Piu Pia. Merino wool top (worn underneath), £42, Mabli.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: DANIEL HACK MODELS: AMINA, CHARLES, DARCY, EDISON, ISAAC, LANA, OLIVIA, RIVER. MODEL AGENCIES: BRUCE & BROWN, KIDS LONDON, MINI MODELS. STYLIST’S AGENCY: ROXY & JACK REPRESENTS.

DK Glovesheets cotton blanket £19, lucyandbelle.com Cotton tights (pack of two) £10, mamasandpapas.com

Cotton cardigan £9, marksandspencer.com Cotton bodysuit £9.99, hm.com Faux shearling coat £19.99, zara.com

Edison wears cotton cardigan and leggings set, £80, Mori. Cotton blouse (worn underneath), £27, Patachou. Leather moccasins, £32, Easy Peasy. Pink cottoncashmere blanket, £60, The White Company. Grey acrylic blanket, £24.99, H&M Home. Cotton mobile, £24.95, Liewood at Natural Baby Shower.

Cotton bodysuit £19.95, gap.co.uk

Cotton bodysuit (pack of four) £8.50, next.co.uk

George cotton sweater £9, direct.asda.com

Cotton leggings £9.99, zara.com

Cotton bloomers £20, mini-la-mode.com Acrylic throw £25, made.com

Cotton throw £15, hemashop.com

Cotton tights £4.95, gap.co.uk Dr Kid cotton-blend dress £33, childrensalon.com

Mamas & Papas cardigan £24, mothercare.com

COMPILED BY: CHLOE COLLYER

Cotton trousers £10, mothercare.com

SHOP THE SHOOT

Cosy up to faux shearling, peachy-soft cotton and knitted throws this winter

Suede moccasins £14, johnlewis.com

Wool-blend cardigan £30, marksandspencer.com

Fina Ejerique cardigan £39, aliolikids.com

Cotton bloomers £6.99, zara.com

Cotton sweater £12.99, zara.com

Cotton cushion £7, matalan.co.uk Cotton-blend trousers £7.50, vertbaudet.co.uk

Cotton throw £55, lauraashley.com

PROFILE

GET THE LOOK

Dassie Artisan basket £26, scandimini.com

Plastic tumbler £6, buddyandbear.com

Liewood cotton cushion £43, scoutandcokids.com

INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION

Hanging mirror £179, swooneditions.com

@THE_ROCCO_ Soon-to-be mum of two Nicky Stedman lives in South West London with her husband and her son, Rocco What prompted you to start your Instagram profile?

My sister Alex encouraged me – her Instagram profile @thefrugality is amazing, I’m very proud of her. It’s a good way to capture memories, too. I love scrolling back and seeing how much Rocco has changed.

You share the many lovely corners of your home – do you have a passion for interiors?

I’ve always loved interiors, and Instagram inspires me a lot. I’m very into white, I dream of a really minimal home one day but I’m not sure that will ever happen!

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I love Hay, The White Company for bedding, H&M Home, and I’m an Ikea addict. Plus @scoutandcokids, @bon_tot and @scandiminis are all amazing for kids’ clothes and accessories.

50 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Who else do you follow on Instagram?

I love so many; @dhowelldesigns for her stunning white home, @coral.atkinson for her creative photography and @_shelleyloves has the kind of family life I hope we will have one day.

What is the key to taking a good photo?

I admit to removing any clutter, and though I usually take snaps on my iPhone, I have recently started using my Olympus PEN E-PL8, and it makes such a difference.

How’s the new nursery coming along for your impending arrival?

She will have Rocco’s old nursery, so it’s back to all-white walls. I’ve added a Numero 74 powder pink canopy over the cot and lots of natural baskets and wooden shelving. I’m loving the girly touches.

Fashionell linen bunting £16, oskoe.com

Eames ‘Elephant’ £175, conranshop.co.uk

Plastic frame £6, ikea.com

INTERVIEW

Wonder Mum SHE MAY SAVE TH E WOR LD ON SCR EEN , BUT Gal Gadot KNOWS H ER MOST IM PORTANT ROLE IS BEING MOTH ER TO H ER T WO DAUGHTER S. H ER E SH E TELL S K AR EN AN N E OVERTON JUST HOW SH E MANAGE S TH E JUGGLE

52 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM/JARONVARSANO

W

hen Wonder Woman made its cinematic debut in summer 2017, no one could quite have anticipated what a global smash it would be. The superhero genre was beginning to feel tired and overdone, coming off the back of a bad spell overall for the film industry. And yet there was something about Wonder Woman that captured the imagination, not just of comic book fans, but of young girls who aspired to emulate the leading lady. It was empowering – indeed, if there’s such a thing as a blockbuster glass ceiling, Diana Prince’s alter ego smashed right through it.

But for six-year-old Alma Versano the novelty has worn off, having become used to her mother stepping into that famous costume. “She thinks it’s cool but it’s not that great to her,” says Gadot. “I’m just ‘mum’. She doesn’t pay so much attention. Even when I’m talking to someone about Wonder Woman, she tries any which way she can to change the topic! But she has certainly learned that every woman is a wonder woman. She literally says that, which I love.”

The 32-year-old star may not have super strength or be able to fly in real life, but she is definitely of the formidable female variety. An enviable combination of beauty, brains and brawn, Gadot went straight from high school into the Israeli Army where she served for two years before, at the age of 18, she was approached to enter the Miss Israel beauty pageant. With her gamine physique and gracious, but steely charm, Gadot won the title, but eventually eschewed a career as a full-time model to focus on studying for her original career path as

INTERVIEW

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 53

INTERVIEW

54 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

INTERVIEW

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM/GAL_GADOT; SPLASH NEWS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; GETTY IMAGES/MICHAEL TRAN

I WAS VERY NERVOUS AS A YOUNG MOTHER – NOW I AM ABLE TO ENJOY IT ALL MUCH MORE. IT’S A BEAUTIFUL TIME FOR US a lawyer – something she would have fulfilled had Hollywood not been knocking on her door so insistently.

But every woman has her limits, and even Gadot admits to struggling when she found herself in the initial stages of pregnancy while filming ensemble blockbuster Justice League alongside fellow superheroes Ben Affleck and Jason Momoa. “I didn’t tell anyone because you just don’t broadcast it in the beginning,” she explains.

“But it became more apparent when I had such bad sickness, not just morning, but afternoon and evening too. I felt terrible. I was literally on set, shooting a scene and in my head the whole time I’m saying, ‘don’t vomit, don’t vomit. Just keep it in, please don’t vomit.’

How I didn’t throw up on the guys is a miracle, I was waiting for it to happen.”

Fortunately, as she was so early into her pregnancy it wasn’t necessary to hide her growing belly; that is, until it came to the reshoots months later (a problem that was remedied with CGI trickery). When it is remarked that Maya – born in March 2017 – essentially stars in the film, Gadot retorts jovially: “She has an entry on IMDB! It took me years to become established, yet she wasn’t even born and already an actress.”

It is often perceived that celebrities have an easy time of balancing parenthood with their careers, what with their wealth and the supposed army of nannies at their disposal, but one can hardly envy Gadot, who found her career hitting the stratosphere right around the time she had planned to expand her family with her husband, Israeli real estate developer Yaron Versano. She explains how, despite some issues during filming, she actually planned it that way, adding: “These things aren’t always so easy to schedule but it worked, in the sense I wasn’t too pregnant for Justice League nor too far gone to promote Wonder Woman. There’s never the perfect time – I think every woman, every couple knows that; but you can try to make things a little easier.”

The actress says it has been easier second time around, as she knows what she’s doing.

Gadot and her husband Yaron Versano at the Wonder Woman premiere

rival unced the ar Gadot anno ch ar M in a of baby May

She discloses, rather surprisingly, that when Alma was born she felt unprepared. “I was very nervous as a young mother.

“With Maya, I’m able to enjoy it all much more. I’ve also seen that having a second child changes the dynamics of your family, and I have to make sure that Alma still gets a lot of love and attention from me even though I’m spending so much time with Maya. But Alma is curious, and she loves her little sister. It’s a beautiful time for our family,” she beams.

It also appears she and Versano are more in love than ever, with Gadot referring to him as a ‘great man’ who supports her in everything.

“He’s the best. I love every moment I spend

with him and my daughters. He is also a very successful businessman and is very involved in that. But even though we are both busy with our work, family life comes first. I am a very, very happy woman who can hardly wait to come home to my family every time I finish work on a film.”

Having cemented her place as one of Hollywood’s most bankable actresses, Gadot can afford to take a well-earned break with her brood – though both a Wonder Woman and Justice League sequel are surely inevitable.

Yet even the glamour and glory of playing a beloved heroine pales in comparison to the thrill of simply being ‘mum’.

“It’s the best feeling in the world to create life,” muses Gadot. “I may play a goddess in Wonder Woman, but I feel like a true goddess after giving birth and being the mother of two beautiful daughters.”

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 55

“ This is a b the right to rand that gives women pregnant, w be both st yli sh and (ga sp!) ith p the all-impo ieces that work well in to rtant fourth trimester” M IC H EL LE K EN N EDY, FO U N D ER O F P EA

N UT

2017 fter months of planning, nominating and voting by you, our loyal readers, in your thousands, the great and good of the pregnancy, baby and children’s industry came together to celebrate the third Little London Awards 2017.

Held at the beautiful Grace Belgravia, one of the capital’s leading health, wellbeing and lifestyle clubs for women, a 150-strong crowd enjoyed free-flowing champagne and delectable canapés as editor-in-chief Kate Freud took to the stage to announce this year’s much-deserved winners.

Set up to champion excellence in every area of the baby and children’s industry, the awards featured 22 categories in total, covering everything from pregnancy to fashion, nursery essentials to food, travel and toys. And while many of these were voted for by almost 70,000 of you, four of the winners were specially selected by our panel of judges, all of whom are mothers and businesswomen themselves; BBC news broadcaster and journalist Kate Silverton, Leonora Bamford of My Baba, Michelle Kennedy, CEO and founder of parenting app Peanut, Sky Sports presenter Natalie Pinkham and Baby London editor-in-chief Kate Freud.

We’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of our winners and nominees, all of whom are at the top of their game and deserve to be applauded for their achievements.

A

BRAND OF THE YEAR

Nine In The Mirror As a one-stop shop that celebrates pregnancy and new motherhood by helping women find stylish solutions that work for both, it’s little wonder Nine in the Mirror was awarded the coveted Brand of the Year award. Founded by former fashion buyer Adriana Chryssicopoulos and online marketer Tatiana de Boisanger, the site features a curated edit of designer pieces to suit women in their first to third trimester and beyond, as well as pieces for baby.

RUNNER UP: NATURALMAT

“Scamp & Dude is truly in spirational; a tangible example of deter mination and triumph in the face of ad versity” NATALIE PIN KH AM , SKY SPO

RTS PRE SEN TER

BEST PRODUCT

BEST NEW BRAND

BEST NEW PRODUCT

Childs Farm Baby Moisturiser

Scamp & Dude

Storksak Cabin Carry-On Bag

When founder Joanna Jensen realised she couldn’t find products to help with her daughters’ fine hair and sensitive skin, Childs Farm was born, and since 2010 the brand has been delivering kid-friendly, free-from toiletries to children up and down the UK. Its luxurious Baby Moisturiser has proven to be a parenting staple, especially for those with little ones suffering from eczema-prone skin.

RUNNER UP: Stokke Tripp Trapp

The designs may be playful and cool, but the heart of Scamp & Dude is about helping kids cope with separation anxiety and trauma.

In 2015, Jo Tutchener-Sharp suffered a brain haemorrhage, which resulted in her having to leave her children for lengthy surgery. It was then she felt inspired to create clothing and comforters that helped kids feel secure, with the slogan ‘A superhero has my back’ to remind them that someone is always there.

RUNNER UP: Kit & Kin

Parents everywhere breathed a sigh of relief when changing bag favourite Storksak announced the launch of its travel collection last summer. Practical and stylish, the Cabin Carry-On has proven a hit with travelling families, featuring a unique fold-away hanging organiser inside that allows you to remove and hang up when you arrive, without the need to unpack a thing.

RUNNER UP: Smalls Merino Swaddle

The judges M EE T OU R PAN EL OF HIGH-PROFILE BUSIN E SSWOM EN , AN D SEE WHAT HAPPEN ED BEHIN D TH E SCEN E S DU RING TH E JU DGING PROCE SS

Natalie Pinkham Sky Sports presenter and mother of two

Kate Freud Baby London editor-inchief and mum of two

Michelle Kennedy CEO and founder of Peanut, and mum of one

Kate Silverton BBC newsreader and mother of two

Natalie, Leo and Kate

Comparing notes

Just some of the products on display

Natalie and Kate talk through the options

“Judgin g th women wa e award s with such in s a n h on o u spirin g to be a lot r – and it t urned out of f un , too! ” K AT E F R E U D, E D ITO R-I N

-C H IE F

Tallying up the scores

Leonora Bamford My Baba blog founder and mother of three

Lego Juniors’ ea allow children sy-to-build toys imaginative pla to experiment with y and build con fidence BEST CHANGING BAG

BEST CHILDREN’S TOY

BEST PUSHCHAIR

Jem + Bea Jemima

Lego Juniors

Bugaboo Cameleon 3

Ever since the brand burst onto the scene in 2015, Jem + Bea turned the idea of the standard baby changing bag on its head, creating beautiful designs that offer both functionality and style. The ‘Jemima’ has been a firm favourite with London mothers this year – this grey version in soft tumbled leather features a number of multifunctional pockets that will take you seamlessly from baby to work meeting in no time at all.

RUNNER UP: PacaPod Madison

When it comes to choosing a toy that will help develop your child’s confidence, inspire storytelling, teamwork and conversation, and boost the boundaries of their imagination, Lego Juniors – designed for children aged four to seven years – does all that and more.

The brand’s range of easy-to-build products include everything from trains and pets to entire town squares complete with shops, garages and fire departments.

RUNNER UP: Gymboree Bubble Ooodles

Light, compact, versatile – let us count the reasons why we love the Bugaboo Cameleon 3. Incorporating more than 15 years of iconic Bugaboo design, this cult pushchair is suitable right from birth. The carrycot easily converts into a seat (and vice versa) while its manoeuvrability makes navigating any terrain easy. And of course, it’s simple to make your own, with a selection of on-trend colourways and accessories.

RUNNER UP: Uppababy Vista

Kate Freud with Little London publisher Caroline Scott The beautiful setting of Grace Belgravia

The winning team from Gymboree

Runner-up blogger Louise Boyce of Mama’s Still Got It

Awards party As glasses were raised to the winners, it was time to celebrate and enjoy the party at the elegant Grace Belgravia

Team Nine In The Mirror celebrate their Brand of the Year award

Caro Greenwood of Spikey Mama and Emma-Jane Adam of Smalls

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Simon Meeke of Powder Byrne presents Nine In The Mirror with their award

PHOTOGRAPHY: SAM CHURCHILL

Kate Freud and Jo Tutchener-Sharp of Scamp & Dude

AWARD WINNERS FIN D OUT WH O CAM E TOP IN TH E R E ST OF OU R CATEGORIE S B E ST C H I L D R E N ’ S FO O D B R A N D

Little Dish BEST APP

Hopster Designed for preschoolers, this ad-free entertainment app allows parents and their little ones access to the best age-appropriate TV shows, nursery rhymes, educational games, music and HarperCollins children’s books for a minimal monthly fee.

Runner up: Ebookadabra -----------

Tiffany & Co for girls’, Molly Brown London creates beautiful jewellery for children, lovingly produced and hallmarked in sterling silver. Head here if you’re looking for a sweet and stylish keepsake gift.

Runner up: Lucy & Belle ----------BEST CHILDREN’S FASHION BRAND

Emile et Rose

For beautiful babywear from BEST BABY ESSENTIAL newborn up to 23 months, this British BabyBjörn label creates Baby Carrier everything One from dresses and B E ST BA BY When it comes ESSENTIAL knitwear to rompers to baby carriers, BabyBjörn and accessories, this cult buy is at Baby Carrier all presented on One the forefront of wooden hangers. design, featuring You can even luxurious padding, purchase matching toys. ergonomically correct wideleg positioning, lockable zips Runner up: Wild & Gorgeous and a sturdy waist belt for improved pressure relief.

-----------

Runner up: Huggies Little Swimmers

BEST CHILDREN’S FOOD BRAND

-----------

Little Dish

BEST BLOG

The Dad Network Spearheaded by dad of two Al Ferguson, The Dad Network is one of the fastest growing dad communities out there, providing support to thousands of dads worldwide on the bumpy but exhilarating journey that is fatherhood.

Runner up: Mama Still Got It ----------BEST BOUTIQUE

Molly Brown London

When it comes to feeding our children, time is often of the essence. Thankfully Little Dish boasts some of the healthiest chilled ready meals around, not to mention a range of tasty, nutritional snacks.

Runner up: Annabel Karmel -----------

Runner up: Start-rite Shoes ----------BEST FAMILY DAY OUT

ZSL London Zoo Explore and enjoy, learn about and get close to some of the world’s most precious animals in our very own capital at ZSL London Zoo. You’ll find workshops, exhibitions and special events happening daily, meaning there’s something new to see every time you visit.

Runner up: Envie de Fraise ----------BEST NURSERY NECESSITY

Sleepyhead of Sweden Sleepyhead Deluxe This multifunctional breathable cotton pod has proven to be a must-own for many parents bringing home a newborn, offering a safe and comfy spot for baby to sleep, rest, enjoy tummy time and have their nappy changed.

Runner up: Matchstick Monkey teething toy -----------

Runner up: Lapland UK

BEST ONLINE RETAILER

-----------

My 1st Years

BEST KIDS’ CLUB, GROUP OR CLASS

Gymboree Play & Music

Loved by the Royals and B E ST M AT E R N I T Y With classes celebrities FA S H I O N B R A N D that utilise a worldwide, Isabella combination My 1st Oliver of music, play, Years has movement and props, become the it’s no surprise to hear go-to brand for that every day thousands personalised gifts, including of parents are choosing clothing, furniture and toys.

Gymboree Play & Music We love the price point, for their little ones. too, with a whole range of beautiful gifts under £20.

Runner up: Little

House of Science Little Discovery

Runner up: Alex and Alexa

Clarks

-----------

-----------

As a firm favourite with families all over the UK, Clarks needs little

BEST MATERNITY FASHION BRAND

BEST PREGNANCY ESSENTIAL

Isabella Oliver

Bump & Baby Club

As an award that recognises an outstanding contribution

The friends you make during pregnancy become

BEST CHILDREN’S SHOE BRAND

Dubbed by Vogue as ‘the B E ST C H I L D R E N ’ S S H O E B R A N D

Clarks

introduction. The brand is known for its impeccable quality, fit and reliability, particularly when it comes to choosing your little one’s first school shoes.

to the maternity fashion industry, Isabella Oliver is a worthy winner. The label has been helping women look and feel confident with its flattering designs for almost 15 years.

invaluable – swapping stories and learning together along the way. The brilliant Bump & Baby Club has been providing modern antenatal classes to London parents for many years, with support that continues long into the months after baby is born.

Runner up: Elderflower & Delilah Maternity Feed 3-in-1 ----------BEST TRAVEL COMPANY

Powder Byrne The line-up for Best Travel Company was a competitive one, but Powder Byrne stands out for its bespoke style and flexibility, offering only the highest quality trips and kids’ programmes to parents and their children. With this brand, nothing is too much trouble.

Runner up: Abercrombie & Kent ----------BEST TRAVEL ESSENTIAL

Sleepyhead of Sweden Sleepyhead Deluxe Lightweight and portable, the Sleepyhead Deluxe allows for easy travel, whether you’re moving from room to room or heading long-haul.

Runner up: Bundle Beds

B E ST T R AV E L E S S E N T I A L

Sleepyhead of Sweden Sleepyhead Deluxe

FREE DELIVERY on orders over £35

10% OFF Quote BLN81

Visit our London stores: Balham, Battersea, Blackheath, Chelsea Green, Chiswick, Crouch End, Dulwich, Muswell Hill, Putney, Stoke Newington, Wanstead, Westbourne Grove, West Hampstead & Wimbledon

www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk

10% discount offer can be used in store and online. Offer expires 31.03.2018.

See website for offer and delivery details.

STYLE EVERYDAY LUXURY Uniqlo has added to its LifeWear line-up with new basics for pregnant mothers and newborn babies. The four new maternity additions – including high-rise briefs, leggings and jeans – are made using non-restrictive cotton materials for a snug-yet-soft fit, and feature reduced stitching to prevent skin irritation. From £3.90, uniqlo.com The newborn undergarments are made with pure cotton to help regulate body temperature

TAKE COVER

Séraphine’s versatile 3-in-1 parka coat will take you seamlessly from bump to baby.

The three styles – in black, khaki and grey – feature drawstring ties at the waist for a flexible fit, plus a detachable ‘kangaroo panel’ to fit over a baby carrier or sling.

There’s even a matching design for dad, too – the brand’s first product for men.

From £125, seraphine.com

maternity fashion SLEEPING BEAUTY Bumpkyn London’s debut collection of luxury nightwear is designed to celebrate your beautiful new shape. Launching with five key pieces, functional features include easyopen poppers and pull-down necklines for breastfeeding. Choose from three nighties, a pyjama set and dressing gown. From £180, bumpkyn.co.uk

NEWS NAIL TH E ART OF ST YLING YOU R BUM P WITH TH E SE CHIC FIN DS STUDIO TO STREET

When maternity workout wear looks this good, is it any wonder the athleisure boom is becoming de rigueur for mums-to-be?

Meet Léo & I, the new luxury activewear label that offers high-performance fabrics to sculpt the body and provide technical support – before, during and after pregnancy. From £100, leoandi.com

SUPPORTING ACT Charley M, Cake Maternity’s superstylish younger sister, has unveiled a new sports bra. The Rebel crop top features pull-aside cups for easy feeding, t-back support and soft mesh panels, available in coral or grey. £24.99, charleymaternity.com

l? u f r e d n o W g in t n e r a P ’t Isn

s

The cuddle

Being together

Sharing moments The laughter

Except when it isn’t...

ty

o Too tired t

play

Feeling guil

d shouty

n Stressed a No work-life balance

Visit Happyworkingmum.com/bb to bring parenting back to WONDERFUL With Emily Thorpe, award-winning work-life balance coach for mums and author of The Working Mums 5-Step Solution to Having It All

STYLE

COLD COMFORT

It’s time to cosy up in cashmere and kick back in the season’s easiest pieces: all hail the edit that blurs the lines between workoutwear and your everyday wardrobe Cashmere sweater £215, cocoacashmere.com

Cashmere poncho £199, purecollection.com Beanie hat £14, oasis-stores.com

Urban Ears headphones £79.99, selfridges.com

Apple Watch Series 3 £399, johnlewis.com

Paige denim shirt £230, nineinthemiror.com

Seraphine parka £135, johnlewis.com

Kate Middleton

American Vintage t-shirt £40, trilogystores.co.uk

Harem trousers £120, homebody.co.uk

Cashmere socks £59, johnstonscashmere.com

Wool scarf £24.95, gap.co.uk

The Upside leggings £100, net-a-porter.com

Stretch leggings £45, isabellaoliver.com

Velvet backpack £75, sweatybetty.com

LEGGINGS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND, WHATEVER TRIMESTER YOU’RE AT. CHOOSE A PAIR THAT OFFERS SUPPORTIVE BUMP COVER, AND LAYER UP WITH LOOSE-FITTING TOPS

Zip-up hooded sweater £115, sweatybetty.com

John Rocha sheepskin mittens £20, debenhams.com

Eberjey bra, £47 and matching briefs, £44, irisfashion.co.uk

Appliqué knit trainers £169, ashfootwear.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 65

Anya Hindmarch purse £195, nineinthemirror.com

Studded leather mules £150, aandreassen.com Rose quartz beaded bracelet £40, astleyclarke.com

Cashmere onesie £298, thewhitecompany.com

AllSaints leather jacket £318, houseoffraser.co.uk

High-waisted leggings £88, varley.com Cotton nursing sweater £24.99, hm.com

Faux-fur gilet £59, topshop.com Alex Jones

Nike leggings £54.95, johnlewis.com

Adidas by Stella McCartney sweatpants £70, matchesfashion.com

Nursing top £25, mothercare.com G-Shock watch £70, selfridges.com

IT’S ALL ABOUT COMBINING FUNCTION WITH FASHION: MAKE FEEDING EASY WITH ZIPDOWN TOPS AND JACKETS, AND EASE BACK INTO EXERCISE WITH PERFORMANCE FABRICS Duffy cashmere sweater £194, julesb.co.uk

Fur-trim parka £952.65, mooseknucklescanada.com

Faux-fur dummy bag £65, jemandbea.com

Nursing top £53.99, espirit.co.uk

Water-resistant changing holdall £120, tibaandmarl.com

Nike trainers £70, next.co.uk

COMPILED BY: CAMILLA RIDLEY-DAY. PHOTOGRAPHY: PA IMAGES/EDDIE MULHOLLAND; REX FEATURES

Sculpting leggings £75, sweatybetty.com

SUBSCRIBERUNNING TO HEAD BABY LONDON

blondon b

1 YEAR for just £18

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

includes FREE iPad access

Royal baby countdown: what Kate Middleton can expect next • Revealed: the truth about perinatal OCD • How to heal your post-baby body • A modern guide to godparents • How to create your dream nursery • And more!

SAVE ��% and receive a

FREE

CHEEKY CHOMPERS MULTIMUSLIN FROM

HAVE YOU MISSED AN ISSUE? You can purchase back copies of Baby London online

worth £28.99

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Call 01442 820580 or visit webscribe.co.uk/magazine/ babylondon and quote CBLOXM17 * Gift offer applies to Direct Debit orders only. Gifts available while stocks last

MAY/JUNE 2017

JUL/AUG 2017

SEPT/OCT 2017

BUY ONLINE AT chelseamagazines.com/shop

NOV/DEC 2017

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 67

FITNESS

STRONG LIKE MUM ATH LE TE AN D POSTNATAL FITN E SS E XPERT Shakira Akabusi SHAR E S H ER TIPS ON H OW TO APPROACH E XERCISE AF TER YOU ’ VE HAD A BABY

’d always been aware that the information available on pre- and postnatal health was lacking, but it wasn’t until I had my son that I realised how limited it really was. According to findings from the Register of Exercise Professionals, only five-and-a-half per cent of fitness professionals are qualified in pre- and postnatal training, and it’s even more difficult to find those who have updated these qualifications in the last five years. It’s no wonder new mothers are confused about how and when to start exercising. These are my five need-to-know pointers on postnatal fitness:

and delivery are uncomplicated, a mild exercise programme of walking and pelvic floor exercises may begin immediately. You should work on your pelvic floor throughout your pregnancy, too, as this has been shown to reduce the risk of incontinence.

I

HOW TO WORK IT CORRECTLY

Shakira says she tri es to make exercise fun for her son, thr ee-year-old Rio

EXERCISE AND BREASTFEEDING To date, there has been no scientific evidence to suggest that exercise negatively affects breast milk supply, in fact regular exercise has proven to not only improve blood lipid profiles and insulin response (both vital for good health), but also reduce stress levels and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety in new mothers. However, it’s important to note that after high-intensity exercise the content of your breast milk may be altered with increased lactic acid build up, although the effects are only short term and will replenish within 90 minutes or so.

On the other hand, breastfeeding can impact our workout routines. The hormone relaxin is produced from around two weeks into pregnancy, right up until five months postpartum and longer for breastfeeding women. Relaxin softens the ligaments to prepare your body for labour, but causes instability of the joints, so it’s vital to work within a comfortable range of motion, particularly when weightlifting and stretching.

MY TIPS FOR BREASTFEEDING MUMS Express and go: If you’re still concerned about

68 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

the content of your breast milk you may wish to express prior to exercise or schedule a workout after a feed. Also remember to wipe down your breasts as sweat may cling to your skin, making the taste unknown to baby.

Bring in support: If you’re serious about exercise then now is the time to invest in a good sports bra, especially when you begin high-intensity exercises such as jogging.

Stay hydrated: Breast milk contains a high level of water (about 87 per cent) and as such, a mother’s fluid intake is crucial. Always replenish your water stores prior, during and post-exercise.

RECONNECTING WITH YOUR CORE Pregnancy and labour can take its toll on your body and for the first few weeks postpartum you want to make sure you give yourself time to recover. I would always advise waiting until your six-week check before committing to a fitness programme, but something you can start on right away is your pelvic floor.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends that if pregnancy

You may wish to begin working on your pelvic floor lying down, building up to a seated and, finally, a standing position. As you begin to develop strength, you can squeeze stronger and for longer. Try to do this approximately three to five times a day for five minutes. In order to test the strength of your pelvic floor muscles, you should be able to stop your urine midstream, however this should only be done occasionally. Continuing with these exercises throughout your life is crucial. These muscles support and stabilise your core, which is the basis for all future abdominal work.

LOW-IMPACT EXERCISE Creating a workout routine that works alongside your new life as a mum should be gradual, making it sustainable and healthy rather than a quick fix. Your body has gone through a dramatic change and your hormones need time to level out.

Alongside pelvic floor exercises, walking is a great way to begin exercising before your six-week check. Then focus on low-impact exercises to mobilise the body, as it can help to reduce the amount of pressure on your ligaments and joints.

If you’re lucky enough to have time to hit the gym, the cross trainer is great machine to slowly raise your heart rate, and swimming is another great alternative.

DIASTASIS RECTI REPAIR It is imperative to check for Diastasis Recti

FITNESS

A ROUTINE THAT WORKS ALONGSIDE YOUR NEW LIFE SHOULD BE GRADUAL

(separation of the abdominals, which you can read more about on p.98) before training.

Once you’ve consulted a professional and been given the go-ahead, heel raises and heel slides can be performed by lying on your back on the floor at home (more on p.99).

Over time you can progress these exercises to include squats where the core continues to be challenged, gradually increasing the intensity.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

STAYING MOTIVATED Having a workout partner has proven to help sustain a fitness programme, so if you can, buddy up with other new mothers or a friend.

And when it comes to staying motivated my biggest tip is to avoid boredom. Trying different forms of exercise such as jogging, swimming, resistance training or dancing is a brilliant way to get your body moving.

However, as we all know, new motherhood means it’s not always possible to find time for yourself outside of the house, so get creative with at-home exercise instead.

For example, a kitchen chair, bench or garden stoop are great places for a few decline press-ups, tricep dips or step-ups. I also remember filling my washing basket with shoes and tin cans to use as a weight. Another favourite of mine is using a five-litre bottle of water as a dumbbell – which is equivalent to five kilograms – great for tricep extensions, lateral raises and shoulder presses! There are also plenty of exercises you can do with your little one. I often work out with my son, making fitness a fun game for him while I still get the work completed.

Most importantly, try not to be too strict about your workout routines. Children are unpredictable so if you need to skip exercise one day, just try again tomorrow. The greatest tip to a sustainable fitness programme is to enjoy the process.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 69

PROFILE

There are pieces designed to be worn by both boys and girls

Every collection starts with a theme

70 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

PROFILE

Harriet Earle

Behind the brand

BODEN

ITS COLOU R FU L CLOTHING HAS BEEN SPORTED BY LIT TLE ON E S FOR MOR E THAN T WO DECADE S N OW. Danielle Wilkins M EE TS TH E BR AN D’S H E AD OF CHILDR EN SWE AR DE SIGN , HAR RIE T E AR LE

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 71

PROFILE

“

h, now here’s a cardigan inspired by a big-top tent. There are spots. Some jacquard stripes and bows. Oh, and here’s a circus horse print with a tassel mane.

This is supposed to be a novelty shark hood, but it needs a bit of work,” says Harriet Earle, Mini Boden’s head of design, a wry smile on her face. She knows how bonkers it all sounds, but her words perfectly capture the joy of Mini Boden – it’s playful and fun, and really, anything goes.

I’ve come to meet Harriet at Boden HQ – a 90,000 square-foot office building in North Acton, outside of which a tongue-incheek disclaimer reads: ‘Ugly building. Nice clothes’. Mini Boden is located in a separate building down the road, where we sit in a room surrounded by moodboards and cuttings, fabric swatches and rails of kids’ clothing, as the designer talks me through the new collection. This season’s theme is Treasure Island, with the first drop this January featuring travelling circus inspired prints (think horses, acrobats and jugglers), while ‘drop two’ will see the more traditional ships and pirates.

“Our conversational prints form a really big part of what we do here,” says Harriet. “The whole story element is something I feel is unique to Boden – it’s a huge part of every range.” And something that has ensured Mini Boden’s enduring popularity over the years.

After all, despite launching the mail-order brand in his Bayswater flat with just eight menswear products in 1991, Johnnie Boden has become best known in the UK for dressing women and children. Womenswear launched in 1992, and the Mini Boden line, which followed in 1996, has become synonymous with childhood nostalgia – quintessentially

A

The quality pieces retain their colour and shape wash after wash

72 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

British storytelling prints, colourful appliqué and, most importantly, exceptionally wellmade pieces that stand the test of time.

Baby Boden was a later addition, in 2007.

“Johnnie loves this idea of a wholesome childhood; adventure, the seaside, being outdoors, he loves that stuff and it stays at the heart of what we do,” says Harriet. She reveals that the founder is also very involved in the design process, even during those early stages.

“He casts his eye over absolutely everything,” she says. “We have to present the storyboards to him – child engagement is something that’s really important to him, so he’ll often challenge us, asking, ‘how is this going to appeal to a modern-day child?’”

So how does the team come up with ideas for its vast collection of prints? “For a typical piece, like a dress, we take a lot of inspiration from vintage pieces,” reveals Harriet. “Right now we have been working with Angela Lynne who lives at the amazing Shropham Hall in Norfolk. She wrote a book called Nursery Days and has the most incredible vintage archive of children’s clothing, furniture and dolls – everything you can imagine – which she has collected over decades. For us, it’s the most amazing source of inspiration, particularly for Baby, because nostalgia is something that’s so important for us to convey in the baby range.

“We always show Johnnie the prints separately first. We’ll lead with a

Harriet was responsible for the shake-up of the Baby Boden range

conversational print and then a small-scale floral. Spots are a part of our brand DNA too.”

This year, Boden has launched a cashmere range for Baby, which the team will add to in conjunction with the new royal birth in the spring. The range features the most beautiful, super-soft pieces, including leggings and tops.

In addition, Baby Boden’s range of newborn clothes will all be organic from this year.

Harriet works primarily on colour palettes (“that’s generally my creative job at the beginning of the season”) and admits she’s always been artistic. After studying for a knitted textile degree at the Chelsea College of Arts, the designer attended the Royal College for her fashion knitwear MA. “Actually, I wish I’d appreciated my time

PROFILE

The brand’s attention to detail is impeccable

Key

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/BODEN_CLOTHING

styles for spring there a bit more,” she recalls. “Looking back, it was an amazing couple of years and it opened so many doors for me. The people they have there are so inspiring.”

Following that, Harriet worked at Pringle for three years, where she designed for the brand’s runway collection, before joining Boden as a women’s knitwear designer. It wasn’t until she had her second child (of three) that she moved on to Mini. “Having my own children definitely sparked a passion for kidswear,” she says. “I still love womenswear – and knitwear – but I absolutely adore it here on childrenswear. It has a slightly less-serious side. You can try more fun things.”

Her children are eight, six and three now – two girls and a boy. Have they always been guinea pigs for her designs? “Absolutely!” she laughs. “In fact, Martha – my eldest – used to be nicknamed ‘Baby Boden’ at nursery because that’s all she was ever dressed in!”

When the designer came back from maternity leave with her third child, that was when she was made head of design for childrenswear, a moment she cites as one of her proudest: “I wasn’t keen on the direction Baby was heading in – I wanted to make it softer, more nostalgic, more premium. And when that season launched it did brilliantly.

That made me extremely proud,” she recalls.

There’s a brand new stor

e in Chelsea

So what’s next for Boden? This year the office buildings are being redeveloped and merged into what promises to be an even more fascinating and thriving hub of activity and, of course, the empire has launched its brand new store on Kings Road in Chelsea, which includes a whole floor of Mini and Baby Boden. More than 800 staff are employed at the label now – it’s come a very long way from a one-man band in Bayswater, that’s for sure.

“It’s really clichéd to say ‘all the people are amazing’ but they do make coming to work a pleasure,” adds Harriet. “And of course, I love having the opportunity to create lovely products that I can see my children in. When people say, ‘Oh, your children look lovely, is that from Boden?’ it doesn’t get better than that. Unless, of course, it’s my kids saying, ‘I absolutely love this. Well done, mummy, you’re amazing!’” she laughs.

Cotton dress and matching bloomers £20

Cotton dungarees £24

Cotton blouse and trousers set £30

Cotton top and trousers set £28

Cotton cardigan £22

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 73

A BRAND NEW MUST-HAVE GUIDE FOR MOTHERS AND MUMS-TO-BE Taking you from the day you discover you’re expecting, through a c t t a a o a t oo a a fi t t a The Ultimate Baby Book will be on hand every step of the way…

You can buy The Ultimate Baby Book for £5.99 at all good newsagents and supermarkets nationwide, and online at chelseamagazines.com/shop

PICK UP YOUR COPY NOW!

TOT GEAR

GREAT SCOTT

Fashion designer and creative director of Moschino, Jeremy Scott has once again joined forces with style-conscious family brand Cybex for a third collection. Cutely named Cherubs, the range showcases kitsch adaptations of the classic motif, with a bold colour palette and a smattering of gold accents. The collection will launch in the UK in February, with Mios and Priam pushchairs, and a range of accessories to choose from. cybex.com

AIR TRAVEL Get set for a revolution in seat safety as Maxi-Cosi launches the AxissFix Air – the world’s first child car seat with builtin airbags. In the case of a collision, two airbags located in the shoulder pads of the harness inflate in 0.05 seconds, reducing the force on a child’s neck by up to 55 per cent compared to other forward-facing car seats. It can be used for both rearward- and forward-facing travel, and is suitable from four months to four years. £550, maxi-cosi.co.uk

tot gear

The road is your runway with the latest high-fashion range from Cybex X Jeremy Scott

NEWS COOL AN D CLEVER BABY KIT FOR N EW FAMILY LIFE

IF YOU’RE HEADING TO THE SLOPES THIS WINTER, MAKE SURE YOUR PUSHCHAIR IS SNOW-READY WITH THE HELP OF WHEELBLADES XL. SIMPLY CLIP THE BACK WHEELS OF YOUR STROLLER INTO THE ‘MINI SKIS’ AND YOU AND BABY WILL GLIDE EFFORTLESSLY ACROSS THE TERRAIN. £149.90, WHEELBLADES.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 75

TOT GEAR

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE Bugaboo has gone down under to collaborate with Australian swim and activewear label We Are Handsome.

The bold new jungle print will be available on tailored fabric sets for the Bugaboo Bee 5, Cameleon 3, Donkey and Buffalo, as well as on a limited-edition footmuff.

From £129.95, bugaboo.com

ONE GIANT SLEEP Finally! Say goodbye to achy arms, as the Rockit comes to the rescue.

The portable rocker fits all strollers and prams, and has been created to help parents on the go keep babies moving and snoozing. Simply attach, switch on and adjust the speed to gently rock baby, just as you would by hand. £39.99, rockitrocker.com

The fully-foldable SmarTrike collapses down to 85 per cent of its original size for easy travel

SMART THINKING The brains behind SmarTrike launched the Smartfold this autumn – think a travel-friendly part stroller, part trike – and this winter sees the launch of the Smartfold 700, boasting more features than ever, not to mention it’s now suitable for babies as young as six months. The design features eight different stages to grow with your child. £149.99, smythstoys.com

CALLING ALL FAMILY ADVENTURERS! SPRING 2018 SEES ICANDY JOIN FORCES WITH LAND ROVER TO CREATE A SPECIAL EDITION OF ITS PEACH ALL-TERRAIN PUSHCHAIR. THE DESIGN INCORPORATES LAND ROVER’S ICONIC GRILLE PATTERN IN THE HOOD, AS WELL AS A LIMITED-EDITION BACKPACK. ICANDYWORLD.COM

76 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

REVIEW

TOTGEAR

Caroline Scot t AN D H ER TODDLER , RU PERT, PUT TH E N EW AN D IM PROVED U PPABABY VISTA TH ROUGH ITS PACE S

W

e haven’t had much luck when it comes to baby kit and seem to have broken an inordinate number of big-ticket items! Therefore, we felt hugely reassured by the strong, handsome and streamlined design of the 2017 Uppababy Vista – this is a pushchair with presence.

The stroller is available in four new colours, too

THE LOWDOWN A key factor which draws many towards the Vista is that it can be turned into a double buggy and used in myriad combinations – additional accessories can accommodate twin babies in carrycots or car seats; toddler plus baby, and even two toddlers. Many parents can’t resist the excellent value and intuitive design – Uppababy strollers feel contemporary, and are something that both mum and dad will feel comfortable pushing.

GOOD LOOKING? Yes, we certainly think so! ‘Austin’ is a sophisticated racing green hue, complemented by a full-grain leather handlebar and bumper bar. As soon as I saw it, I thought it was the smartest pushchair ever. I feel like I’m pushing the Range Rover of buggies.

PRACTICALITY & DRIVABILITY The Vista delivers a smooth, comfortable drive and for a couple constantly living in fear of breaking something, it feels very secure.

Navigating pavements is much easier than with other buggies and for weekends in the country, it manoeuvres like magic when you’re

All smiles as Caroline and Rupert take on the new Vista

off-roading or struggling down a muddy towpath. In fact, I would say it offers the perfect balance between town and country.

One of the most noticeable features for me is the deep basket space – you can conceal rather a lot of stuff in here without the pram looking like it’s overflowing with junk. As the Vista can also function as a double buggy, it’s slightly wider than the sister pushchair, the Uppababy Cruz. Does this matter? To us, not so much, but it does mean it’s a little tricky to get through a single door when going into a shop or café, and perhaps not the nippiest for catching a bus, but otherwise it doesn’t cause any problems. It also stands when folded, which is handy when not in use.

COMFORT

The redesigned wheels make it easier to navigate

The carrycot feels luxurious and can also be used for overnight sleeping. A rain cover and insect net are all included, and there’s a pullout, extendable UPF50+ sunshade on both the bassinet and the toddler seat, so you can weather all elements without worry. The high seat position means Rupert can sit easily at a

The new and improved model is bursting with upgrades – and is 1.5lbs lighter

table when we eat out. Four-wheel suspension, five reclining seat positions and a moveable footrest mean that even at Rupert’s age he’ll still happily take a nap while on the move.

THE VERDICT The Vista is a solid buy. The name gives a lovely sense of all the adventures you and baby will have in this rather grand-feeling pushchair. £949.99, including carrycot, johnlewis.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 77

RELATIONSHIPS

PLAYING HAPPY

families

WHY DO SO MANY OF US COM E TO BLOWS WITH OU R PARTN ER AF TER TH E BABY AR RIVE S? Mar tha Alexander FIN DS OUT

“

hen does Robin have her afternoon bottle?” is a question that sends me into orbit when the asker is my husband. I lurch from lukewarm exhaustion to white-hot rage in a second: “Is that a joke?”

Huffing and puffing about how he should be ashamed not to know the timings and quantities of our daughter’s daily milk intake, I tell him I’d love to get on the Bakerloo line, shroud my face in a stranger’s armpit, and go into Soho to spend a day simply being good at a job, a paid job, stopping for Vietnamese pho and a read of the paper at 1pm. How lovely.

How relaxing. What a treat.

For his part, my husband says he misses our daughter all day (“and you!” he always adds) and he wishes he could be at home, and he hates the Bakerloo line. But he gets the best of both worlds: the job he’s brilliant at and a daughter who dotes on him.

Meanwhile, I’m working freelance and being mother – two roles which are entirely new to me. Sometimes it seems we’re trapped in a never-ending game of one-upmanship. It’s as if respective points of view are eclipsed by a baby-shaped moon, blocking each other’s light, leaving both feeling misunderstood.

I’m not alone; the above is just a slice of my own embittered little pie. Others all have their own tales of woe. The frustrations of parenthood are myriad. Why do both parties feel they have the thin end of the wedge?

“Relationships get into dire straits when they enter territories that are wholly unchartered,” says psychologist Emma Kenny.

“You’ve entered mortgages and marriages before, but you can get out of them. With babies, firstly, it’s forever. Secondly, you inextricably join yourself with the human that you have chosen to have the baby with.”

The reality of domesticity bites hard for

W

78 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

first-time parents, who, like me, harboured a romanticised idea of childrearing. The feeling of being unappreciated seems to be, across the board, the biggest bugbear for the partner who stays at home with the baby.

When essential tasks like washing up, feeding pets, playing with baby and writing thank-you letters go unnoticed, tempers begin to fray.

Sarah, who has two children under two, admits she feels her husband is indebted to her and therefore should act accordingly.

“He doesn’t seem to appreciate that pregnancy was a period of time I had to give up things I love including drinking, coffee and riding my bike, and so am owed many pink tickets,” she explains. “Instead, I find the balance of chores and lifestyle always seems cruelly favoured towards him.”

There is also the not-insignificant matter of confidence. When one parent swaps a fulltime career for an entirely new, largely solitary role, it is entirely disorienting.

“By staying home all day, my confidence in the world, my sense of who I am in it, ebbs away,” agrees Bea, who has an eight-month-old daughter. “I feel disconnected and stupid – my only contribution being ill-formed opinions based on articles I never have time to finish.”

Tellingly, the only woman I spoke to who said her relationship has barely been affected by parenthood has a husband who works for a company that allowed him to have a six-month paternity leave, fully paid.

“When partners do it together they learn important lessons,” says Emma. “In that six months he will have seen how much pressure a baby brings. Being together is so bonding.”

One can’t help but think this is a depressingly sexist issue – with most of the women I spoke to admitting they feel some things are just expected of them.

STAY ON TRACK Emma Kenny’s rules for a happy relationship • Don’t think you can carry on as normal once a baby has arrived – things will change.

• Don’t row. Write your grievances down in a notebook and discuss the things that still bother you at the end of the week.

• Ask your partner for help if you need it.

• Just say how you feel: most of the time hinting doesn’t work.

• Make use of apps, such as Mama Social, to meet new, like-minded friends.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

RELATIONSHIPS

“When men become fathers they are often completely unaware of their sexism,” agrees Emma. “Because they have been marketed to all their lives, being told, ‘you are going to be the breadwinner and she is going to stay at home being a mum’ – even though it’s wholly untrue in our society.”

And what do the men say? “I feel whatever I do is wrong,” says Thom, whose daughter is two. “I try to help but I’m always messing up: I dress her in the wrong clothes, feed her the wrong food – I can’t win.”

So, how to prevent the rows? One way is not to ever pledge to carry on ‘as normal’. This

is Emma’s top piece of advice for new parents – and she urges couples to articulate their expectations before the baby arrives.

Emma also bans rows (“They don’t resolve anything”) and instead suggests grievances are written in a book, and at the end of the week both parties must remember what they wrote before discussing it: “Most people forget the petty things and focus on the real problem.”

For me, I’ve realised the arguments between my husband and I are fairly common. Although I am exasperated at the change in my life, this isn’t his fault and I have accepted that for all my frustrations we occupy a calm sea

interrupted by choppy waves when one of us is railing against not being able to do exactly what we want there and then.

“When a partner does what they want first, this gives a message that their needs matter the most,” says Emma. “Having a peaceful partner who comes home, who sticks to plans, who is reliable in the mundane tasks as well as in bigger commitments gives consistency, continuity and a sense of security. The way they act demonstrates their main priority is their family and that is massively attractive.”

The bottom line is, when you have a baby, you don’t come first anymore.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 79

Celebrating 10 years as Londons ‘ prettiest caterer for Beautiful Tea Parties We specialise in bringing our tea service to you Perfect for Baby Showers We provide everything needed to create a picturesque afternoon tea or sweet buffet in your private residence or location and now fashionably in the office!

We love to cater especially for Baby blessings and Christening’s And we are fabulous for First Birthday Parties and little girls tea parties!

We can also provide service in our tea room for up to 16 Guests

www.bettyblythe.co.uk

darling@bettyblythe.co.uk

Betty Blythe, 73 Blythe Road, Brook Green, London W14 0HP

1

This adorable selection of bodysuits are designed for baby boys and girls alike

Hanging decorations (pack of five) £2.79, partypieces.co.uk

DECORATE

2

3

Find the perfect finishing touches

Tiered reveal cake £165, cakeology.net

4 5

7

8

1. The Animals Observatory bodysuit £103.50, cissywears.com 2. Organic Zoo bodysuit £25, thelittlenaturalco.co.uk 3. Denim dungarees £39.50, dottydungarees.com 4. Bobo Choses bodysuit £42, alexandalexa.com 5. Hooded cotton bodysuit £42, tobiasandthebear.com 6. Cotton-cashmere bodysuit £56.45, thebonniemob.com 7. My K by Myleene Klass bodysuit £15, mothercare.com 8. Tinycottons bodysuit £55, alexandalexa.com

with Carole Middleton

BOY OR GIRL?

Either way, it’s cause for celebration! Here’s how to make your big reveal one to remember Paper plates (pack of eight) £3.49, partypieces.co.uk

6

BABY PARTIES

Giant balloon trio £58, bubblegumballoons.co.uk

Personalised cupcakes From £18 (box of six), lolascupcakes.co.uk

O

ver the last few years, gender-reveal parties have become a modern way to cherish the surprise and share the sex of your baby with loved ones in one wonderful, memorable afternoon. Whether you choose to find out the gender of your baby beforehand and surprise your guests, or hand the results over to someone else so it’s a surprise for you, there are many ways you can make the big announcement.

Gather up a stash of balloons filled with pink or blue confetti and pop away! You could do a similar thing with party poppers, too. The confetti looks great in photographs.

Give your results to a cake maker and ask them to create a design made with pink or blue sponge covered with vanilla or chocolate icing. When it’s time for cake, gather everyone around the table and make that first slice with a flourish!

A piñata that explodes with pink or blue coloured sweets or confetti is a fun way to get everyone involved, and younger guests will love it. Serve up with a colourful, nonalcoholic punch for a full-on family fiesta.

Piñata (not filled) £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

Personalised invitation From £1.09, papier.com

Unwrap a package in front of your guests to reveal a boy or girl outfit. If you want to be surprised on the day, you could pick out one of each outfit in store and ask the shop assistant to wrap the correct one for you.

Paper napkins (pack of 20) £4.99, partypieces.co.uk

Handmade silk collar Christening bib - £18.95 Our extra large muslin cloth range Set of two (with matching bag) £24.95 Personalisation available on request

Complimentary personalisation available

www.lullabebe.com AVA I L AB L E N OW I N S E L EC T E D S TOR E S & O NL I NE

SUPPORTS

BEAUTIFUL BABY ACCESSORIES - HANDMADE IN ENGLAND - INSPIRED BY PROVENCE

r extra large muslin cloth range t of two (with matc hing bag) £24.95 Personalisation a vailable o n request

www.lullabebe.com

A B L E N OW I N S E L EC T E D S TOR E S & O N L I NE

SUPPORTS

82 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

BUMP BLISS

New to Gazelli House, the Prenatal Hydro Massage is the stuff of dreams. As you lay back on a bed of warm water, the therapist will alleviate the tension in joints and muscles with rhythmic movements tailored to you, using the brand’s signature White Oil to boost circulation. Highly recommended for those in the third trimester, you’ll leave feeling like a new woman. £185 for 90 minutes, gazelli.com

Cradle & Tonic’s Motherhood Collection is also said to help soothe morning sickness and fatigue

SCENT WITH LOVE Celebrate each stage of your pregnancy with the candles from Cradle & Tonic.

Made with pure essential oils and natural soy wax, the ‘Bump’, ‘Birth’ and ‘Baby’ scents have been formulated to create a calming environment, whether you want to fight those sleepless nights or encourage deep breathing in labour. £38 each, cradleandtonic.com

health & beauty

NEWS

TH E L ATE ST PRODUC TS AN D IN N OVATION S IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING DREAM CREAM TEAM RAISING THE BARRE Get back to fitness steadily with the new class from Barrecore. Ideal for those returning to exercise postpregnancy, the Signature Lite sessions move at a slower pace and with more recovery time. New mothers are advised to attend a 30-minute oneon-one session before a group class.

Packages from £135, barrecore.co.uk

Drop a few hints or treat yourself to Little Butterfly London’s Ultimate Gift Box. It’s packed with organic products for both mum and baby, and is especially suited to newborn and eczemaprone skin, so you can indulge with a totally clear conscience. £137, littlebutterflylondon.com

ENHANCE YOUR PREGNANCY GLOW WITH THE NEW DEDICATED MUM-TO-BE BOX FROM MINTD. FULL TO THE BRIM WITH ALL-NATURAL BEAUTY TREATS FROM BRANDS SUCH AS BLOOM & BLOSSOM AND VOTARY, IT’S PERFECT FOR A PREGNANT PAL OR AS A TREAT TO YOURSELF – WE WON’T TELL. £125, MINTDBOX.COM

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 83

THE HOLY TRINITY The ultimate gift, this limited edition Extra Glow Skincare Set from Bobbi Brown is your one-stop fix for better looking skin. The star of the show is the brand’s signature Extra Illumiating Moisture Balm, designed to leave tired skin hydrated and radiant-looking for the whole day, while the delicate eye area isn’t overlooked either, with the Extra Eye Repair Cream offering clary sage and argireline to support the skin’s natural collagen. And lastly, the moisture-packed Extra Lip Tint will give you a soft, kissable pout in no time. £61.20, johnlewis.com

GET YOUR GLOW BACK

Kate Freud ON HOW TO GIVE YOU R TRICK Y WINTER SKIN A MUCH-N EEDED BOOST

TOOLS OF THE TRADE Calling all time-poor mums – flawless make-up application is coming your way.

We are already huge fans of Kevyn Aucoin’s make-up range, and now his brush collection has got us all a flutter, too. They’re not cheap – with prices starting from £48 – but these brushes are guaranteed to speed up your routine, hiding a multitude of sins in the process. spacenk.com

84 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Bust Fix: Night is an amped-up version of the brand’s signature Bust Fix

BOOST YOUR BUST Your body might be hiding under numerous layers right now, but let’s not forget to give it a little TLC. The supercharged Nip + Fab Body Bust Fix: Night is designed to perk up your bossom with its combination of chronodyn (a cell energiser) and plant-based complexes, helping to restore your cleavage to its former glory. £16.25, lookfantastic.com

BEAUTY

East meets west Ever since South Korea introduced us to its revolutionary BB creams, it’s become known as a hotbed for beauty innovations.

The depths of winter is the perfect chance to pep up your skin with these face masks:

PAPA RECIPE BOMBEE HONEY MASK This all-natural mask is made with an ageold recipe that’s designed to replenish.

Contains ginger, grapefruit and liquorice. £18.73 (pack of 10), yesstyle.com

DR JART+ RUBBER MASK FIRM LOVER Designed to visibly lift and contour, the rubber mask wraps your face for deeper penetration of the salicylic acid and red seaweed extract. £10, amazon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

THE STROBE EFFECT The Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops Set might look complicated, but it’s surprisingly easy to add a spring glow to your sallow winter complexion. Simpy add a few drops to your favourite liquid foundation, or use straight from the bottle with your fingertips across your cheekbones, forehead and chin for a more luminous look. £34, spacenk.com

OOZOO FACE IN-SHOT MASK Focusing on skin-firming, elasticity and nutrients, apply the syringe through the sheet mask and leave for 20 minutes.

Miraculous stuff. £8, selfridges.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 85

An online boutique for the chic mama, rocking dads and their gorgeous little ones.

In our one stop shop you’ll find modern nursery decor, chic accessories for the home, children’s apparel and luxe new baby gifting.

We have tracked down the chicest brands from all over the globe for design-conscious parents.

A boutique dedicated to great British design, with beautifully crafted products in timeless and elegant designs that will both charm and inspire.

Shop here for an exclusive range of gifts that will be cherished and loved by all. A haven for mothers-to-be.

Visit our website www.nurserywindow.co.uk or pop in and visit us in store!

83 Walton Street, SW3 2HP 0207 581 3358 Find us on Instagram: thenurserywindow

FOR PREGNANCY, RECOVERY & BEYOND EFFECTIVE RELIEF FOR LEGS

Beautiful Selection of Fashionable, Maternity Support Tights, Thigh-Highs & Knee Highs. All Made with Graduated Compression to Improve Blood Circulation in the Legs

F

15% OF Code BL15

Prevents & Relieves

Leg Fatigue Swelling Varicose Veins (and Vulva) Restless Legs & Cramp Heavy Leg Sensation

off 10s% de e Co U S10 BHL

Great to Use

Every Day For Travel For Work Also after the Birth (at a Time when Mums can be Susceptible to Thrombosis)

Get Back on Your Feet in No Time - What Busy, Modern Mum can do Without Them?

www.mini-la-mode.com

Exquisite Embroidered Pima Cotton Babywear & Children’s Sleepwear 100% cotton • 100% hand made • mini-la-mode • 100% cotton • 100% hand made

86 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

FREEPHONE 0800 433 4757 www.pebbleuk.com

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

“How important is diet during early pregnancy?

I’m finding it hard to eat healthily when all I can stomach is sugary carbs.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

A

As your baby develops and your body is healthy diet during pregnancy will required to cope with the additional demands, guarantee you get all the nutrients both will draw from your nutrient stores. you and your developing baby need.

Here’s how yours and your baby’s needs But in reality, for many women, a perfectly change nutritionally with each trimester: balanced diet isn’t always possible, especially around the beginning of pregnancy when your blood sugar is fluctuating, and you’re feeling FIRST TRIMESTER tired and sick.

Good nutrition is particularly important However, research shows that what you eat during the first trimester when your baby is (and what you don’t eat) during pregnancy can developing and the risk of miscarriage is at its have a profound effect, not only on how highest. In your first trimester you’re laying the healthy and enjoyable a pregnancy you have, foundations for all of your baby’s organs, and but on the health and development of your there are key nutrients that are needed during baby for her whole life. That’s why it’s this time. One very important one is folate important to build up your nutritional reserves which is vital for nerve development, but also prior to pregnancy so your baby can rely on for preventing neural tube defects, so many them even when your diet isn’t perfect. women are encouraged to take folic acid I often talk about pregnancy being before and during pregnancy. a 15-month event. Not only do Folate is rich in foods such as ed Recommend you have the nine months broccoli, parsley, cabbage product with child, but the three and spinach. You should months beforehand are really also make sure you have important too, in terms of plenty of omega 3 in laying down the foundations your system to help with for a healthy pregnancy brain development which Zita West Vital Essence 3 for weeks 28-40 of pregnancy, nutritionally. you can find in oily fish. £26.50, zitawest.com

SECOND TRIMESTER The second trimester is a crucial time for the development of baby’s skeleton. Drinking plenty of milk and eating yoghurt will help boost your calcium levels, enabling your baby’s bones and teeth to grow. Vitamin D and magnesium are also vital at this stage – you can get this from oily fish, while magnesium is found in green leafy veg, nuts and seeds.

THIRD TRIMESTER During this phase your baby is rapidly developing and you will be gaining weight.

But make sure you focus on quality not quantity. Between 28 and 40 weeks, your baby’s brain goes through a growth period and it needs fats, so eat oily fish, which is rich in omega 3. However, you won’t be getting enough through diet alone, so I recommend supplements to top up on this. Protein is also important (meat, fish and eggs) as your baby will be building muscle and tissue, and iron, from spinach, lentils and sardines, is vital to build up your stores in preparation for labour.

Other important nutrients to top up include vitamin C, vitamin K, zinc and glycine.

Zita West is the founder of the Zita West Fertility Clinic which specialises in a holistic approach to IVF. Instagram: @the_first_1000_days

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 87

HOME

HIBOU

ORIGINAL CHILDREN’S WALLPAPERS AND DECOR WWW.HIBOUHOME.COM

sixphysio.com

telephone 01580 243188

SP-Pilates-PressAd-99x129mm.indd 1

88 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

14/11/2017 14:13

HEALTH

The Breastfeeding Café with CLARE BYAM-COOK

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO STOP BREASTFEEDING MY BABY, AND SHOULD I MAKE THE DECISION?

T

he decision about when to stop breastfeeding should be a combination of what is best for you and what is best for your baby – not necessarily in that order!

If your baby is thriving and enjoying breastfeeding, it makes sense to continue for as long as that proves to be the case and let her decide when is the right time to stop. But in the reality of the modern world, this may not be an option, particularly if you have to go back to work. You might be able to continue to give your baby breast milk if you are able to express during the working day so your baby can be given this milk by bottle.

If breastfeeding is going well, it would be great if you can reach the government’s recommendation of a minimum of six months, and anything longer is a bonus.

If breastfeeding is going really badly and no health professional has been able to resolve your issues (for example, these may include sore nipples, low milk supply, poor weight gain, baby feeding badly from the breast even though you have plenty of milk, baby is

frequently unsettled or sleeping badly) you should not feel bad or a failure if you decide to stop breastfeeding.

I think it’s important to introduce your baby to a bottle (hopefully containing expressed milk rather than formula) fairly early on – I suggest by six weeks – to ensure that she will be happy to be bottle-fed when the time comes to stop breastfeeding. It is also a useful thing to do just to give you a little more flexibility. For example, perhaps you need to take medication that isn’t compatible with breastfeeding, or you want to build up your milk supply, or maybe let your partner help with the night feeds. Or even have a night out without worrying about breastfeeding that evening! If you don’t introduce a bottle at this stage, it may come as a shock when you need to stop (because you are going back to work, for example) and you then find your baby refuses point blank to take anything at all from a bottle. This can be incredibly stressful for both you and your baby, and is best avoided at all costs.

And if you buy only one thing…

Pick up a copy of Clare’s book for ways to make the transition from breast to bottle as straightforward as possible, and overcome any issues new mothers may face. Top Tips for Bottle-feeding £9.99, amazon.co.uk

FEEDING FROM THE BOTTLE If you find yourself in a situation where baby won’t take a bottle, there are things you can do to help: • Set aside a 24-hour period to tackle the problem.

• Don’t give her anything to eat or drink for three to four hours – she must be hungry enough to want to feed.

• Have a variety of bottles and teats available to see which suits her best.

• Try using a fast-flow teat – MAM 6+ teats are my choice.

• Sit her upright on your lap so she doesn’t choke if the milk flows too fast.

• Get someone to distract her with a rattle or toy so she focuses on them, rather than the bottle.

• Have confidence that she will eventually learn.

Note that if you are willing and able to carry on breastfeeding until she is a year old, she will be old enough to bypass bottles altogether and have all her feeds from a sippy cup.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 89

A fun kids range to sort out any pickle

Beautifully made in the United Kingdom

www.pickle.co.uk 10% Off your first order with code: Hellobaby

picklegoods picklegoodsuk

Please use code BABY LONDON15 for 15% Off

Personalised Star Teethers

Our CE Marked Personalised Star Silicone Teethers are here and are recommended by Mums!

For the most contemporary, on-trend and practical teether on the market, you can’t go past these. WORLDWIDE EXCLUSIVE TO LLB! Perfectly shaped and textured for bub to get relief right along their gum from pesky toothy pegs and Personalised to make the perfect gift/keepsake. The star is also perfectly sized for little hands to hold and the flexible silicone is smooth on the front and textured on the reverse for even greater relief. They massage and soothe sore gums while bub chomps away.

They’re made with high quality, 100% food grade silicone that is free from BPA, lead, cadmium, phthalates, PVC and latex and they will not absorb odour or support the growth of mould or bacteria.

Our Stars can be Personalised with any Name, Wording and/or Date.

For example: “Amelia 01.01.16” “To Harper, Love From Nanna & Grandad” “Noah, we love you to the moon & back” “Mummys Little Princess” To clean - just pop on the top shelf of the dishwasher or wash in mild soapy water

www.little-legs-boutique.com

90 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

BABY TALK

PART

Diary of a MUM Mar tha Alexander PON DER S COM PEITITIVE PAR ENTING AN D TH E POLITIC S OF R AISING A GIR L

H

“

ow old?” A mother in the park assesses Robin, who is dragging herself along with her arms like a mermaid washed up on dry land, with suspicion.

“Just 12 months,” I say.

“Still not walking?” The mother raises her eyebrows and does a downward smile of sympathy before pointing at a girl who is attempting to throttle a pigeon.

“Mia was walking at nine months.”

“Great,” I say.

“They say if children never crawl it means they…”

“Yeah, I read that, too,” I bark, scooping up my slithering child and walking away. The conversation was so over. I mean, what was that entire exchange meant to achieve other than a mental middle finger from me?

Parents can be so competitive. From eating (“he’ll eat anything – he had beef wellington on Christmas Day!”), to sleeping (“seven ’til seven from seven weeks!”), and talking (“she knows all the words to Dear Zoo!”), or perceived intelligence (“the nursery staff couldn’t believe she stacked that stacker in five seconds flat!”) it’s at best, maddening. At worst, unwittingly cruel.

Of course, it’s normal to be proud of your children.

In the privacy of our own home Mikey and I inflate everything Robin does. She comes back from the childminder with cotton wool sheep and we think of the Turner Prize in 30 years’ time. She stirs the mixture for a sponge cake and we imagine her as a future Mary Berry.

She identifies an animal and we wonder where she will read veterinary science. She kisses the cat clumsily and we revel in the knowledge she is not a psychopath.

But I do, of course, find other things to worry about.

“What a lovely boy,” says an old lady, hair the colour of Parma Violets. She leans over to chuck the chin of my baby. “What’s your name little man?”

“Her name’s Robin,” I say, evenly.

“I’m so sorry!” The old lady looks stricken. “You can’t tell, can you, with the little ’uns?”

This isn’t the first time Robin has been mistaken for a boy. Any time she isn’t wearing pink or a dress, people assume she’s male. There’s also the fact she almost

always has a plastic triceratops clasped in her hands.

I’m not a fan of head-to-toe pink for little girls.

For me, pink is not just a colour. It’s a message about expectation. Pink stands for domesticity and decoration.

If you don’t believe me, go into any department store and take a look at the girls’ toys: Tiny kitchens and tumble driers; vanity sets; jewellery; baking kits with heart-shaped cookie cutters, all in varying shades of powdery blush or the playful punch of Pepto-Bismol.

Even the animals aimed at girls are tame lapdogs and fluffy white cats with silky bows around their necks.

And what does all this say? Girls are gentle, girls are pretty, girls belong in the home. Meanwhile boys have their fat-wheeled cars and monsters and tool boxes.

Because all boys are manly and gruff and physical, right?

There’s much discussion at the moment about how children play, the choices they make, what gives rise to these choices – and what these choices might mean in their future. I want Robin to make her own decisions, but at the same time, how many of these are the result of subliminal messages about femininity that she’s been exposed to since birth?

I’m now fretting about people telling Robin she is pretty. Everyone likes being told they’re pretty, don’t they? What’s the harm? Well the harm is this: she will grow up thinking it’s important to be pretty, more so than anything else. So I tell her she’s clever. But most of all, I ask her if she’s happy. “’Appeee!” she repeats.

“You need to calm down about all this diamantecovered baby ironing-board stuff,” my friend Sophie told me, as her daughter sashayed into the kitchen in an Elsa dress. “You’re going to make her feel like being a girl is wrong. And it’s not.”

No, it’s not wrong to be a girl. And Robin will probably be in a Frozen frock within the year, asking for a pair of glittery heels in which to hoover the carpet. But I have the right to be wary, don’t I? I have the right to want to make sure my daughter knows that being a pretty princess isn’t the only thing a girl can be. bl Twitter: @marthalondon

This bold, fun and friendly fox print was designed with both girls and boys in mind Tobias & The Bear cotton jersey leggings £18, alexandalexa.com

Next time: Robin is sick – and the whole family follows suit

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 91

RUNNING HEAD

Morning, noon and night Dr Penelope Law, CON SU LTANT OBSTE TRICIAN AN D GYNAECOLOGIST AT TH E PORTL AN D H OSPITAL, U NVEIL S TH E FAC TS BEHIN D MOR NING SICKN E SS orning sickness can affect many women, in fact, around 70 per cent suffer from it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy, leading to nausea and vomiting.

And while this is most commonly known as ‘morning’ sickness, unfortunately symptoms can in reality affect pregnant women at any time of day. For a very unlucky few, the vomiting does not stop at 16 weeks but continues until the last trimester, and even sometimes until delivery.

Morning sickness is usually mild, however you should always mention your symptoms to your GP, midwife or obstetrician. If you are vomiting continually throughout the day and not passing much urine, you should seek help. If you are also experiencing additional symptoms such as diarrhoea or fever, you may have an infection and should see your GP. The symptoms of morning sickness are undoubtedly unpleasant, however there are tricks which you can try to help alleviate them.

The combination of the pregnancy hormone and the acid in your stomach is what we think makes you feel like vomiting – so the sickness often improves if you can take just a sip of fluid or a teaspoon of food each hour. Plainer, starchy foods will be less likely to worsen the nausea than spicy or acidic ones and ginger tablets (but not fresh ginger or ginger-flavoured tea or biscuits) can also have an anti-sickness effect.

A good tip is to put something – rice cakes,

M

a plain biscuit or oatcake – by the side of your bed before you go to sleep, so you can nibble on it before you even lift your head in the morning. Don’t worry if you can only face a limited range of foods, your baby will still have all the nutrients she needs to grow. Sometimes just cooking smells can be enough to make you feel dreadful – if so, delegate the cooking to others until you feel better.

Staying hydrated is also very important, and you should ensure you are sipping on water whenever you can. Peppermint and camomile teas are also helpful to sip on through the day – although milky drinks tend to make you feel

serious form of morning sickness has been affecting as few as one per cent of women in pregnancy, known as hyperemesis gravidarum.

Until recently it’s been fairly unknown, but hyperemesis gravidarum has been a hot topic of conversation since the Duchess of Cambridge experienced the condition with each of her pregnancies.

True hyperemesis gravidarum is much less common than morning sickness, but the symptoms can be significantly more severe.

This is when you have vomited so much that your kidney function and electrolytes in the body are disturbed. Many women worry that their baby will be affected. This is not usually the case, but on rare occasions women do need to have fluids given intravenously just to help them feel less dehydrated. This can now usually be done in hospitals during the day – allowing you to sleep at home. In the extremely rare situation that this does not improve your vomiting, you may be prescribed anti-sickness medication and even steroids to reduce your symptoms.

If you are concerned that you may be experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum, speak to a medical professional such as your midwife or GP who will assess you and refer you on for further treatment. This is particularly important if you are unable to pass urine or keep down food or fluid for 24 hours, despite trying simple remedies, such as those suggested previously.

EVEN IF YOU CAN ONLY FACE LIMITED FOODS, BABY WILL STILL HAVE THE NUTRIENTS SHE NEEDS

92 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

worse because they take longer to digest.

With the first feelings of nausea you could also start to wear Sea-Band anti-sickness bands. These go on both wrists, covering a pressure point just above your palm which really improves the awful waves of sickness.

For best effect they should stay on, even in the shower, until about 16 weeks when the majority of women will feel much better.

For most women once their baby is born and their memories of nausea and vomiting are fading, the mind has a very clever way of persuading us that actually things were not that bad, suggesting that we might even do it all again one day. But in recent years, a more

RUNNING HEAD

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Feeling peaky? Eating little and often is said to help alleviate symptoms of sickness

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 93

HEALTH

meet

the

EXPERTS OU R H E ALTHCAR E PROFE SSIONAL S AN SWER YOU R QU E STION S ABOUT PR EGNANC Y AN D BEYON D

I’M 14 WEEKS’ PREGNANT AND LOVE RUNNING, CAN I CONTINUE TO RUN AND IF SO, HOW SHOULD I ADAPT MY ROUTINE? Running during pregnancy is a great way to maintain your cardio fitness – if you were running regularly before you became pregnant there’s no reason not to continue for as long as you feel comfortable. Accept that you might not be able to run quite as far or as fast – pregnancy is a time to maintain your fitness, not to beat your personal best. If you need to slow down and walk up hills, that’s fine!

Warming up is even more important when you’re pregnant. Be sure to cool down too, allowing your heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature to gently return to normal. The hormone relaxin will soften your ligaments during pregnancy, so be careful not to overstretch. It’s also important to remember the ‘talk test’ – you shouldn’t be running so fast or exercising so hard that you can’t continue a conversation while doing so.

A well-fitting sports bra is a must, and you’ll find running much more comfortable if you wear supportive maternity running gear.

Choose garments designed to support the weight of your baby bump during exercise.

Finally, always check with your doctor before exercising but be reassured that the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends all healthy pregnant women should aim for 30 minutes’ exercise every day to benefit both mother and baby – exercise is good for both of you!

Alexandra McCabe, pregnancy fitness expert and founder of Fitta Mamma maternity activewear

94 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

HEALTH

I’M RETURNING TO WORK NEXT MONTH BUT I’M FEELING QUITE ANXIOUS ABOUT IT. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO MENTALLY PREPARE MYSELF?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I HAD MY SON FIVE MONTHS AGO AND REALLY WANT TO GET RID OF MY POST-BABY BELLY. HOW WOULD YOU RECOMMEND I GET STARTED? It’s great that you now have some time to start thinking about yourself and getting back into exercise. With regards to working the core postnatally, pregnancy and birth puts strain on the whole body, and abdominal separation is common, therefore a holistic approach to postnatal exercise is vital, with no single solution suitable for all. Although you would like your stomach to be the focus, by working the whole body you will quickly become stronger and more toned – and as result your body positivity will grow greatly.

The abdominals are not an isolated muscle group, they work closely with the back muscles and are vital in any full body movement. I would recommend a combination of whole body circuits interspersed with targeted abdominal exercises to really start firing up the whole body, including the core.

Try to be aware of your abdominals as you go about your daily life – keep them activated.

Imagine a connection between your belly button and spine, and that the sides of your body are pulling in a little. Stand up as straight as you can with shoulders back, as good posture automatically engages the abs. Find a time when you can focus on this, for example, when you are pushing the buggy around.

Far more important than focusing on post-baby belly ‘flab’, though, is to be strong and fit both for yourself and your little one.

When engaging in a type of exercise that you enjoy, you will naturally feel energised and motivated. You will feel great about yourself, and be proud of your body and all it does for your baby.

I often run bootcamps which are filled with like-minded mums sharing their experiences and reaching their fitness goals, which can be great motivation, while private sessions are great for more targeted goals and injuries.

Rosie Stockley, personal trainer and founder of MamaWell pre- and postnatal fitness

Firstly, if you can, it’s a good idea to have a couple of taster days for baby at the nursery or childminder you will be leaving her with to reassure yourself that she will be fine. Talk through her routine, so it will be as close to daily life at home as possible.

I usually recommend arranging to go back to work on a Wednesday or Thursday, to ease yourself (and your baby) in with a short week.

Your body may have changed, so be kind to yourself. Don’t try and squeeze into pre-baby work clothes, which may make you feel selfconscious. Treat yourself to something new that you will feel fabulous and comfortable in.

Have a run-through of the morning routine, so you know how long it will take to get you both ready, drop your baby off, and get to work. The night before, get your clothes ready and in the morning allow a little extra time, so you arrive at work feeling relaxed.

You could ask the nursery to text you a photo of your little one during the day, so you can see your content baby and feel reassured.

Understand that it may take a while to get back into the working groove – don’t expect too much of yourself on day one. Later on, you may not feel like cooking, so consider getting a takeaway.

Many mums returning to work experience guilt, which is a draining and negative emotion.

There are several steps to feeling guilt-free but the first is to appreciate the decision you have made is the right one for you and your family.

Don’t be hard on yourself. Be kind to yourself and make your work-life balance a priority.

Emily Thorpe, author and founder of Happy Working Mum

I’VE BEEN USING A CHIROPRACTOR EVERY NOW AND AGAIN WHEN MY BACK PLAYS UP, I’M NOW 12 WEEKS’ PREGNANT AND ALREADY FEELING QUITE ACHY. IS IT SAFE TO STILL VISIT DURING PREGNANCY, AND WILL I FEEL THE BENEFITS? In short, yes. Seeing your chiropractor is absolutely safe in all stages of pregnancy. As a drug-free therapy, many women prefer to have this gentle treatment as they do not have to resort to taking medication, or using temporary over-the-counter pain relief.

In many respects, pregnancy is a key time to receive this kind of treatment. It will ensure that your spine and central nervous system is at optimal health. Your body is going through huge change; every day it’s adapting and growing to accommodate your baby.

Whether you’re in your first or third trimester, chiropractic can help with the stresses of pregnancy, such as back, leg and pelvic aches.

Women seek treatment to stay comfortable and mobile during their pregnancy.

Prior to any adjustments, your chiropractor will assess your medical history, lifestyle (such as work-life balance, diet, sleep and stress), and any current musculoskeletal complaints.

Chiropractors will always recommend keeping an open dialogue with your midwife and doctor, too. Alongside treatment, your practitioner can advise on nutrition, supplements to take during pregnancy and give tailored exercises to do at home. All in all, chiropractic is an effective natural treatment to add to your pregnancy wellbeing toolkit, and your practitioner is there to support you.

Maximillian Hirschman, chiropractor at London Wellness Centre

OUR PANEL

Alexandra McCabe

Rosie Stockley

Maximillian Hirschmann

Emily Thorpe

fittamamma.com

mamawell.org

thisislondonwellness.com

happyworkingmum.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 95

Time to Talk

WATER BIRTHS Marina Fogle & Dr Chiara Hunt

TH E SISTER S DISCUSS TH E BEN EFITS OF TAKING TH E PLU NGE hen we discuss pain relief options in The Bump Class, women are often surprised to see water at the top of our list. That’s right, not needles, not drugs – water can be a great help to women throughout their labours. The vast majority of women find that being in the bath in the early stages of labour really helps ease the intensity of contractions, but wish they could be more upright and mobile in this watery environment, which is why so many birth centres and labour wards now offer a birth pool in which women can labour.

The feeling of weightlessness makes women more comfortable but it’s also a lot easier to get into the squatting positions that are so great for labour, but difficult to maintain out of the water.

The water also eases the pain of contractions (which a lot of women only come to realise once they get out) and reduces your

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

W

risk of tearing. But it is also safe to deliver your baby in the water.

If there are any concerns about you or your baby, the midwife will recommend that you get out, but all being well, you can spend as long as you like in the birth pool.

You should have your own dedicated midwife on hand for your water birth. While they will not get into the pool with you, they will support and encourage you from the sides, using a mirror and a torch to examine your perineum and your baby’s progress, and you can use gas and air if you want.

With one contraction your baby’s head will be born and because she does not want to stimulate your baby to breathe, the midwife will not handle the baby unless she has to. With the next contraction, your baby’s body will be born and the midwife will reach down and gently pass your baby to you, allowing you to bring her to

the surface and watch that very special moment as she take her first breath.

Many women worry that giving birth in the water carries with it a risk of the baby drowning.

But remember that right now your baby is floating happily in a watery environment inside your uterus, not using her lungs at all. Once you reach the pushing stage, the midwives are careful to keep the water temperature exactly the same as your body temperature. Because babies are only stimulated to breath with the cold air hitting their face and by being handled, it is very safe.

The midwife will handle baby as little as possible in the water and your baby will be oxygenated through the umbilical cord until she takes her first breath.

Birth pools aren’t cheap, easy pieces of kit to install and the NHS would not have gone to all the trouble and expense to consistently include them in their

facilities if there wasn’t a huge amount of evidence showing how beneficial they are in labour. We always recommend giving a birth pool a try. If it’s not for you or you want a stronger method of pain relief, such as an epidural, you can get out any time you want. That said, approach your labour with an open mind. If the professionals are recommending that you get out of the pool for you or your baby’s safety, remember that they only have your best interests at heart.

Time and time again we hear women rave about the experience they had in the birth pool. So do ask whether this is something your hospital can accommodate and give it a go!

Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South Kensington and Parsons Green. thebumpclass.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 97

HEALTH

The CORE of the MATTER Becky Dickinson E X AMIN E S A CON DITION WHICH AFFEC TS COU NTLE SS N UM BER S OF N EW MOTH ER S, YE T MANY HAVE N EVER EVEN H E AR D OF IT or most women, pregnancy is not without a degree of collateral damage. Few of us are lucky enough to escape completely unscathed. I remember my midwife blithely remarking, a few days post-partum, that I may never return to my ‘former svelte self’. She was right, of course.

But while a few stretch marks are a small price to pay for a healthy baby, for many mums the physical legacy runs much more than skin deep. Around two thirds of women are left with a condition called diastasis recti, or DR. This is where the muscles of the abdominal wall, the rectus abdominis, or ‘six pack’ muscles, separate during pregnancy and fail to knit back together afterwards, leaving a gap down the centre of the abdomen. It can affect anyone, but is more common in women who have had previous pregnancies as the muscles have already been weakened. It’s also more likely to affect petite women, or those carrying multiples, as the bigger the bump, the greater the strain on the abdominal muscles.

As GP Dr Rupert Critchley explains, DR is often unavoidable: “As the body prepares for the expanding uterus, hormones thin the connecting tissue between the right and left abdominal wall muscles. This is part of the body’s preparations for giving birth.”

While it’s natural for most women to have some DR during pregnancy, problems can arise if the gap fails to resolve itself within a few months after giving birth. As well as leaving an unsightly bulge, the condition can also cause

F

back pain, constipation, stress incontinence and in extreme cases, a hernia, where organs bulge through the torn abdominal wall.

Despite its prevalence, scores of women have never heard of DR. Even more worryingly, most women aren’t checked for the condition at their routine postnatal appointments.

However, it is possible to check for the condition yourself. Simply lie on your back with your legs bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place one hand behind your head, and the other hand on your abdomen, with your fingers (palm down) just above your belly button. Raise your head and neck off the floor very slightly, rolling your upper body into a

Instead, you need to focus on rebuilding your core and pelvic floor: “With a deep or large gap, it’s unsafe to return to high-impact exercise such as running. Avoid anything in forward flexion – this means sit-ups and crunches, as well as things like sitting up in bed (roll to one side to get up instead) and bending to tie shoe laces (elevate your foot). Even if you had an emergency c-section, you probably did a lot of pushing before surgery, and with a planned c-section you still carried the weight of a baby for months,” she adds. “Taking the time to rehab your core means you will have a much better recovery and can get back to your exercise regime with full efficiency.”

Gentle pilates and targeted exercises can help, however, it’s vital to find an instructor who specialises in postnatal fitness. Personal trainer Claire Gregory developed DR herself following the birth of her second child four years ago, and was shocked at the number of mum-and-baby bootcamps on offer. She says: “New mums are a vulnerable group, and exercise can do a lot of damage if you’re not doing the right thing. I felt there was nowhere safe to go.”

Claire is now on the committee of The Guild of Pregnancy and Postnatal Exercise Instructors. Like Caroline, she’s passionate about raising awareness of DR. And while it is incredibly common, the good news is, for the vast majority of women, the condition can be improved with the correct exercises. Only in extreme cases will surgery be needed to reconnect the muscles.

WORRYINGLY, MOST WOMEN AREN’T ROUTINELY CHECKED FOR THE CONDITION

98 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

‘crunch’ and press down with your fingertips. If you can feel a gap that is wider than two finger widths you may have a muscle separation.

Repeat the test a couple of inches above and below the belly button.

So what happens if you do have a gap? The first thing is not to panic. And the second is to resist heading straight back to the gym. In fact, Caroline Bragg, head PT with postnatal retreat group &Breathe, says jumping straight back into exercise is the worst thing you can do.

“If these muscles are worked before the gap has healed, this is when a permanent bulge might occur as your muscles can’t retake the shape they had pre-pregnancy,” she says.

THINK YOU HAVE DR? If so, it’s best to consult a professional first.

Once you’ve been given the go ahead, here are some basic exercises to try at home.

DIAPHRAGMATIC BREATHING “Diaphragmatic breathing is key as it works with your pelvic floor and core,” says Caroline. Lie on your back, with your hands on top of your lower ribcage and inhale.

Feel the diaphragm make the lower ribs expand into your hands. As you exhale, focus on contracting your diaphragm.

SINGLE LEG HEEL SLIDES Lie on your back, knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Keep your arms by your sides.

Engage your pelvic floor muscles (as if stopping the flow of urine). Keeping your pelvis and spine neutral, exhale to slowly extend one leg out, keeping the heel on the ground. Inhale to slowly slide the leg back in. Repeat on the other side.

TABLETOP TOE TAPS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Lie flat on your back and lift both legs to a tabletop position, with your knees directly over hips. Without letting your lower back lift off the ground, slowly lower one leg to the floor keeping the same tabletop shape.

Keep pulling your navel into your spine as you exhale. When your toes touch the ground, inhale and lift your leg back up to the original position. Repeat with other leg.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 99

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW

AH E AD OF BABY ’S WE ANING JOU R N EY, Laura Mason N OTE S TH E BE ST KITCH EN E SSENTIAL S TO KEEP YOU BOTH ON TR ACK Best for

Best

INSPIRATION

COOKING ESSENTIAL

There’s lots of practical advice from baby experts packed inside, too!

Best for

ON THE GO

Best for

ORGANISATION

Best

HAND-HELD ESSENTIAL

FILL N SQUEEZE

OXO TOT

ELLA’S KITCHEN

VITAL BABY

This is an ingenious product for parents who want the benefits of homemade food to be available to their baby while on the go. Simply make up their favourite purée and then fill the sterilised pouches through a unique funnel system.

Label, date and name the food and it’s ready for a family day out. £20, kidly.co.uk

The Mash Maker food mill allows you to purée what’s already on your plate, effectively transforming ‘grown-up food’ into a meal for baby.

The steel blade grinds a variety of foods with ease, including meat, and you can even scoop and serve from the top without having to disassemble the device first. £25, lakeland.co.uk

It’s great having all the kit, but for a helping hand in compiling nutritious snacks and meals, this cookbook is full of creative ideas, with more than 130 recipes.

Choose from veg purées to full meals – each one rigorously tested. There’s also tips from nutritionists and other parents. £7.49, amazon.co.uk

Batch cooking and freezing is a really efficient way of preparing and serving home-cooked meals. Vital Baby’s ranges of pots are freezer safe for storage, and the clip-on lids make them safe for snacks and travel. A perfect way to mix up baby’s diet without needing to cook each mealtime. £6.29, vitalbaby.com

Starter Pack

100 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Mash Maker

The First Foods Book

Prep & Go Food Pots

PHILIPS AVENT

Maker This machine is a steamer and blender in one, so no need to transfer food during the cooking process. Steaming is a great way of retaining essential nutrients, so once the food is cooked, you flip it over and blend to your baby’s desired consistency. Et voilà! £125, amazon.co.uk

PROMOTION

In the spotlight: Baby showers EN DLE SS GIF T IDE AS TO MAKE THIS MOM ENT ON E TO R EM EM BER

Dreamgenii

BEANBABY

One thing expectant and new mothers want is comfort. Thankfully, the awardwinning Dreamgenii Pregnancy & Feeding Pillow is designed for just that. Unlike other pregnancy pillows, the Dreamgenii moulds around you and your bump, supporting your back and knees as your pregnancy progresses and sleeping becomes more difficult. The Dreamgenii can also be used as a feeding pillow once baby arrives. Now that’s a thoughtful gift. dreamgenii.com

BONNIE NASH AT FOXSTAR PHOTOGRAPHY

Looking for something different to celebrate a new arrival? Beanbaby offers beautifully curated parcels specifically designed with the coffee- and tea-loving parent in mind – think super-soft printed swaddles, Organic Zoo slogan babygrows and fine bone china mugs.

The ideal way to prompt mum into taking some time out. beanbaby.co.uk

Beau Box

BETTY BLYTHE

The team behind Beau Box set out to make gifting fun yet simple, whatever the occasion. From foodie gifts to candles, beauty products to stationery, create your own stylish set with carefully selected products, or choose its dedicated ‘Awesome People Make Awesome Babies’ box to make any new mother feel just as special as her new arrival. beaubox.co.uk

HAUCK

Looking to club together with some friends for a special present? Hauck is a family owned company that started its beginnings in the 1920s, with cool baby kit to suit every lifestyle and budget, including high chairs and travel accessories. The Jump Around, suitable from six to 18 months, is sure to be a hit with babies and parents alike. The softly padded suspended seat rotates 360° – and in reach are rattles, balls and a music module. Happy play days, people! hauckuk.com

London’s leading baby shower provider, Betty Blythe specialises in offering mums-to-be and their family and friends a luxury, tailored experience. Expect everything from stunning, Instagram-worthy table settings sprinkled with handcrafted macarons and biscuits to beautiful cakes, candyfloss and afternoon tea classics – all complemented by your own craft workshop. Celebrate in Betty Blythe’s vintage tearoom in West London, or in the comfort of your own home or office. bettyblythe.co.uk

TREASURE BOX Treasure Box is a small business run by a creative mum. Fall in love with her selection of beautiful gifts and nursery décor, perfect for offering as a baby shower or birthday gift.

The lovely keepsake pieces are handmade in London using a range of crafty materials, from embellishment gems to Lego. treasureboxukdesigns.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 101

Nursery Enrolment Week

22–26 January 2018 Quality childcare for under 5’s in Battersea and Wandsworth

One weeks free childcare when you book a place* *Terms and Conditions apply

Visit battersea.busybees.com or call 020 7720 9336 to arrange your visit today

Visit wandsworth.busybees.com or call 020 8877 1135 to arrange your visit today

The Battersea Nursery & Pre-School, Riverlight, Nine Elms Lane, Battersea, London, SW8 5BP

The Wandsworth Nursery & Pre-School, Dolphin House, Riverside West, Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, SW18 1DE

INTERIORS

SWEET DREAMS

What is there not to love about bohemian Spanish label Numero 74’s beautiful home décor collection?

Featuring everything from bed canopies and cushions to cot bumpers and changing mat covers, in dusky shades of pink, dove grey and white, made from the softest linen and cotton, it’s the perfect palette for creating a peaceful space for baby. All of the designs are handmade by a women’s community in Thailand, for a truly artisan feel.

From £16, en.smallable.com

interior

NEWS

ST YLISH U PDATE S AN D IN SPIRING FIN DS TO MAKE YOU R HOUSE A H OM E

BOUTIQUE BUYS

SIMPLY NEW

London-based children’s store Piccoli & Co is a beautiful treasure trove of cotbeds and moses baskets, nursery bedding, personalised baby gifts, including monogrammed pillow cases and bibs, and so much more. It’s the perfect place for those looking for something extra special for the baby in their life. piccoliandco.com

Children’s furniture brand Krethaus has teamed up with Severina Kids to create a selection of textiles and accessories in off-white cotton and black stitch details. The designs, including our favourite, Mr Fox (pictured), sit in line with Krethaus’s pared-down aesthetic.

From £60, en.smallable.com

COMPILED BY: KATE FREUD

LOG ON If you’re after a more interesting way to display the books, toys or trinkets in your child’s nursery, this charming woodland-themed wall shelf could be just the thing. Easy to assemble and mount, it definitely beats your bog-standard variety. £49, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 103

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

A nursing chair is one of the most valuable purchases you can make, and with all that feeding, comforting and bedtime reading you’ll be doing until the early hours, it’s important to choose one that’s both comfortable and well-made. Clockwise from top left: This compact rocker is designed to fit even the cosiest of nurseries (from £399, babygrey.co.uk); Tribe Modern’s stylish suede glider will add a contemporary touch (£895, nubie.co.uk); feed baby in complete comfort in Olli Ella‘s ergonomically designed, iconic Ro-Ki Rocker (£795, olliella.com); for a more classic feel, this beautiful bespoke design boasts Swarovski crystal detailing (£3,200, bambizi.co.uk)

Looking to get back into shape?

Let MAMAWELL help you reach your goals!

ST AYFI TFORYOU

ANDYOURBABYTOO!

PRE & POST-NATAL FITNESS | BOOTCAMPS | PERSONAL TRAINING www.mamawell.org

SHOPONLI NE FI TT AMAMMA. COM

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB18 | 105

PERSONALISED NURSERY PRINTS AND VINTAGE INSPIRED ILLUSTRATIONS VISIT US AT WWW.THELOYALKINGDOM.CO.UK Receive 10% off your order using code BABYLDN10

FOLLOW US

LK_BabyMagazine17_99x129_Advert_1.indd 1

28/11/2017 15:49

There’s more fun for everyone We look after the childcare with flexible or seamless all-day options, so you can enjoy your skiing!

01483 915 021 espritski.com 106 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

FOOD

ALL-STAR DINING Baby deserves beautiful dinnerware too! We love the latest constellation print from Molly & Moo. The five-piece set includes a plate, bowl, cup, fork and spoon crafted from eco-friendly bamboo – a great anti-slip material for little hands to grip. This is children’s tableware you really won’t mind showing off. £29, mollyandmoo.co.uk

food

MINI MOUTHFULS

NEWS

Annabel Karmel has turned two of her best-loved recipes into quick and easy bites for those busy days. Mighty Meaty Bites and Yummy Chicken & Apple Bites come pre-prepared, ready for you to heat in the oven and serve on their own or as part of a meal. Suitable from one year. £2.30, tesco.com

The Bumkins grip dish is ideal for little ones learning to self-feed

WE BRING TO TH E TABLE TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST FOOD FOR TH E SMALLE ST OF DIN ER S

TEETOTAL TIPPLE

DISHED UP There’ll be no more plate-throwing with Bumkins’ clever new grip dish design.

Divided into three sections for serving different food types, the dish is made from sturdy dishwasher-safe silicone with a strong suction base that fits most highchair trays. Choose from four colours. £17.99, hippychick.com

Whether you’re expecting or just detoxing this New Year, fill up your glass with alcohol-free fizz from The Bees Knees. Perfect for those who favour traditional sparkling wine, the drink is made from grape juice lightly infused with green tea, and tastes just like the real thing. Available in white or rosé, one glass contains around half the calories of the real thing, so it’s easy on the waistline, too! £3.99, ocado.com

ACCORDING TO RESEARCH BY WATER WIPES, 40% OF PARENTS HAVE NEVER TRIED SENSORY FOOD PLAY WITH THEIR BABY. ALLOWING LITTLE ONES TO EXPLORE WITH THEIR HANDS DURING THE WEANING PROCESS CAN HELP REDUCE FOOD FUSSINESS IN LATER CHILDHOOD, AS WELL AS ENCOURAGE THEM TO TRY NEW TASTES. WATERWIPES.COM

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 107

FOOD

Eat your

GREENS

TO H ELP GE T BABY ’S WE ANING OFF TO A H E ALTHY START, PICCOLO’S IN FANT N UTRITION SPECIALIST Alice Fotheringham SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE VEG-PACKED R ECIPE S

reen foods often need to be introduced a few more times, compared to naturally sweeter ingredients such as carrots and apples, but persevere and don’t be put off if they are rejected those first few times. Dark leafy greens are stuffed full of good nutrients and can be introduced a wide variety of ways – roast, steam or whizz into a dip, mix into omelettes, chop into batons and serve with a dip or yummy salad dressing – the options are endless, as are the varieties of vegetables to get you inspired at this time of year.

G

108 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

FOOD

APPLE , PEAR & KALE PURÉE Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 5 minutes Makes 4 portions Suitable from 6 months Suitable for freezing

This green purée also makes a fantastic smoothie. For the smoothie, try adding frozen banana or avocado to make it creamier.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 apple, peeled and chopped • 1 conference pear, peeled and chopped • 25g curly kale • 25g spinach • 75ml tinned, full-fat coconut milk (to make a smoothie for older children use sugar-free coconut or almond milk drink) • 1-2 fresh basil leaves • Water, for consistency METHOD

Steam the apple, spinach and kale (raw spinach and kale can be a bit tough on little tummies) for 4-5 minutes. Drain and refresh in cold water.

Add the steamed ingredients to the pear, coconut milk and basil, and blend together.

Add water or more coconut milk to get to the desired consistency.

Tip: Use frozen cooked spinach cubes for a more nutrient-dense purée. You could also add ground walnuts or seeds for healthy fats.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 109

FOOD Pasta sauces are a great way to cram in lots of nutrient-dense vegetables

S P I N AC H & R I C O T TA C A K E S Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 15 minutes Makes 10 cakes Suitable from 6 months Suitable for freezing

A great finger-food option that’s quick to whip up, these are great for breakfast or a snack. Spread on a little marmite, pesto or cream cheese for extra flavour!

INGREDIENTS

• 200g fresh spinach • 50g oats • 3 fresh basil leaves or ½ tsp dried basil • Pinch of paprika • 100g ricotta cheese or full-fat cream cheese • 40g parmesan cheese, grated • 2 large eggs, beaten • 1 clove garlic, minced • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

V E G G I E P E S T O & P E A PA S TA Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 25 minutes Makes 4 portions Suitable from 8 months Not suitable for freezing

METHOD

Pulse the spinach, oats and basil in a food processor or with a hand blender until finely chopped. Transfer to a medium bowl. Add the ricotta (or cream cheese), parmesan, eggs, garlic, paprika and pepper; stir to combine.

Heat the oil in the pan on a medium heat and drop tablespoons of the mixture into the pan and flatten with the back of the spoon.

Bake on each side for around 2 minutes.

You can alternatively bake them in a greased muffin tin for around 20 minutes at 200˚C. Tip: This recipe also works well with cooked broccoli as an alternative to spinach.

It’s easy to cram vegetables into this take on pesto – and try pasta made from pea flour, which contains more protein than standard pasta (and is gluten free).

INGREDIENTS

• 1 clove garlic, crushed • 1 sweet potato, peeled and finely chopped • 1 medium courgette, chopped • ½ medium aubergine, chopped (optional) • 50g frozen peas • 50g curly kale • 10 fresh basil leaves • 2 tbsp olive oil

• 40g parmesan cheese, grated • 200g pea pasta • Ground black pepper to taste METHOD

Heat a large frying pan with 1 tablespoon of oil and add the onion. Stir for five minutes until it starts to turn translucent, then add the garlic, sweet potato, courgette and aubergine, and cover. Cook for 10 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Add the peas and kale and continue to stir and cook for a further 5 minutes, adding water if the pan dries out.

While all the vegetables are cooking, cook the pasta in a pot of boiling water, and drain.

Once the veg is cooked, take off the heat and add the basil, parmesan, remaining olive oil and pepper, and blend to make a sauce.

Mix the pasta into the sauce, and grate over any extra parmesan.

Alice Fotheringham is infant nutrition specialist at Piccolo. Piccolo is an organic baby food brand with roots in the Mediterranean approach to feeding children. The brand supports the NCT and gives 10% of its profit to food education. For more information, visit mylittlepiccolo.com

110 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

FOOD

Your weaning guide Once your baby is six months old you can begin introducing solids. Remember, breast or formula milk is still giving your baby the majority of her nutrients, and will continue to do so for the first year. Those first tastes are really about introducing new flavours and textures, so don’t worry about the amount of food you are giving, it really is about experiencing tastes over quantity. There is also no evidence to show that one food is better than another to introduce first. You can either start with a soft finger food or a purée, or a combination of the two.

Great foods to start with Vegetables: Broccoli, butternut squash, carrot, cauliflower, courgette, peas, parsnip, potato, pumpkin, sweet potato, turnip Fruit: Avocado, apple, banana, mango, melon, peach, pear Protein: Beef, chicken, legumes (peas, beans), fish, lamb, turkey, pulses (lentils) For those ingredients that need cooking (all of the above apart from avocado, banana, mango, ripe pear or peach) you can either peel, chop into chunks and steam until soft, or bake and scoop out the cooked flesh. If puréeing, you can add a little breast or formula milk, and mix until you get the texture of yoghurt.

When to start It’s a good idea to introduce food in between milk feeds, so your baby is not starving or too full from a feed. Either sit her in a highchair at the table with you, or feed her on your knee.

Responsive feeding She may only take a teaspoon of food to begin with. Don’t worry, it can take up to 12 times for a new food to be accepted. Your baby knows when she is hungry, and when she is full, but at this stage it is hard for her to communicate this. If your baby is turning her head away, it may mean she is not hungry. Avoid using distractions to give her more food as she may not need it. Just try again another time.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 111

travel

NEWS

WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW

FRANCE’S FINEST

Enjoy a pampering break before baby arrives at the five-star Terre Blanche in Provence. Its dedicated babymoon spa package includes everything you need to look and feel your best with a bump – including a pregnancy massage, facial, blow-dry and more. Set in 750 acres of Côte d’Azur countryside, and just a short drive from glamorous Cannes, you’ll return home feeling fabulous.

From £330, en.terre-blanche.com

SIZING UP After huge demand from customers, Sunuva has launched its first cruise collection for women. The six-piece line includes lightweight cotton dresses, kaftans and jumpsuits all featuring the brand’s signature details – think neon trims, pom-poms and colourful tassels.

From £65, sunuva.com

SPACE TO BREATHE Recharge those batteries and bond with your new baby at Suzanne Cork’s Mama Escapes retreat. Escape to the idyllic Brooklands Barn in West Sussex for three days of calm – enjoy nutritious meals, restore your confidence with inspiring workshops, and renew your energy with yoga. There’s a full nanny service, too, for when you need time to yourself. From £549 per private room, suzannecork.com

SEA CHANGE

The capsule collection includes bump-friendly kaftans with an easy, boho vibe

Take your holiday to the next level of relaxation with the wellness detox package at Martinhal’s Sagres and Cascais resorts, Portugal. Your stay includes a host of seaweed-based treatments in the spa, including a body wrap and facial, not to mention complimentary use of the kids’ club.

From €110 per person, martinhal.com

COMBAT THE NOISE OF NEW PARENTHOOD WITH THE SILENT TREATMENT THERAPY AT OCKENDEN MANOR IN SUSSEX. EMBRACE WEIGHTLESSNESS IN THE SPA’S FLOATATION TANK WHERE AN HOUR OF FLOATING IS SAID TO HAVE THE SAME EFFECT AS THREE HOURS’ SLEEP! FROM £147, HSHOTELS.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 113

ª Postcard from…

MALLORCA

The destination is popular for its sunny climate, azure waters and soulful towns

Rhiane Kirkby AN D FAMILY SOAK U P TH E M EDITER R AN E AN H OTSPOT

M

All smiles!

The owners, Peter and Lisa, do their utmost to cater to your every need, providing prams, sterilisers, changing mats, beach toys and anything else you may require. They’ll launder your clothes and provide meals on request.

As food critics go, my toddler can count himself amongst the harshest, but he certainly gave the chefs the thumbs up – demolishing every meal put in front of him. If you’d prefer to eat out then we found plenty of good-quality, family-friendly restaurants in the local towns.

It’s fair to say that (other than an ostrich farm) there’s not much around, but drive for 20 minutes and you’ll come across stunning beaches, which, even in the height of summer, aren’t overcrowded. Our personal favourite was Cala Llombards, where the cliffs provide natural shade and the warm, shallow waters were perfect for our toddler to play in. But with their white sands and clear turquoise waters, the protected Es Trenc and Cala Mondrago were equally as appealing.

When I thought about our first holiday, I had visions of us imprisoned in a hotel complex with timetabled daily entertainment, children’s clubs and neon water slides – but it was the opposite. If you’re looking for escapism, this hotel really does tick all the boxes. And don’t just take my word for it, most of its visitors are returning guests. And given our experience, we’ll be joining them. hotel-migjorn.com

The trio spent their days at the beach

The beautiful coves of Cala Llombards

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK

allorca, for me, always conjured up images of overcrowded beaches, tacky tourist spots and teenagers experiencing their first taste of freedom – definitely not my choice destination for our first family holiday abroad. But, after several glowing reviews of a particular baby-friendly hotel, we decided to give it a try.

On boarding the plane I was slightly reassured by the fact there were no teens in sight – in fact, with our brown heads of hair bobbing in a sea of grey and white, we were the youngest by far! And, as we made our way to the hotel, I discovered my worries were unfounded as this is an island that (away from the infamous tourist traps) remains largely unspoilt.

Campos, a small town close to the virgin coves and white beaches of the south east of the island, was our destination. Our base, Hotel Migjorn.

This rural hideaway oozes calm. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Palma airport, but it feels like a world away.

The hotel is impeccably clean and spacious, and despite the fact nearly all of its visitors are young families, the atmosphere is relaxed. This may be due to the fact it comprises only 10 apartments, a small restaurant and a heated pool, but the surrounding acres of countryside also help. This is not the place to go if you don’t drive or are looking for an adventurepacked trip, but if you want a relaxing break where someone else is willing to do all the work for you, then it’s ideal.

FREE CHILD PLACES

Lamb’s Knees Luxury Family Holiday Home

www.lambsknees.com Fabulous playroom • lly e e l • e t • al t ea h e • t e • l t alle a • t eet a • 3 bedrooms the e

le e ta a t e at

family skiing at its best “If you have children and would actually like to relax

FH BABYLONDON ad 99mmthis x 129mm advert_Layout 1 01/12/2017 10:12 on holiday is the Pplace” Laura A., London

FOREST HOLIDAYS - THE PERFECT FAMILY GETAWAY

• EXCLUSIVE À La Carte Childcare 0-12 years all in your own beautiful chalet.

No snowy trudge to a central crèche: Page 1just pop on your skis and leave the rest to us • Superb ski schools and exhilarating activities for children of all ages • Fabulous catered chalets in world class ski areas offering hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, boot warmers and even cinema rooms!

• Nationwide flights, Eurostar from London direct to the Alps

Save 10% at Forest Holidays It's your family, your holiday. It starts with your luxury cabin in the woods; how the story then unfolds is up to you.

Simply enter promo code BABYLONDON to save 10% on a Forest Holiday when you book before 28 February 2018 and holiday before 30 September 2018.

The 10% discount can be taken across all of our cabin types, from the great value Copper Beech to the ultimate luxury of a Golden Oak Treehouse. This discount applies to the cabin price only and not any extras. May not be used in conjunction with any other offer and cannot be applied retrospectively. Forest Holidays reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

skifamille.co.uk | 01252 759069 Pearson Court | 1 Kings Road | Fleet | Hampshire | GU51 3DL

ATOL 10863

BABY LONDON/SURREY/HANTS SEPT 17.indd 1

ABTOT 5141

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB18 115 13/09/2017 | 15:11

Wednesda Wednesda Wednesda

For boys aged 3 to 8 years

Endeavour Courage Truth

st r rser n and ar

Ofsted Outstanding Developing Self-Esteem & Independence Stimulating Curriculum WednesdaHealthy MealensmFreshlrnynPrepared s 1 Dail11y Bi-lingual Nursery

Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb Ofsted Outstanding Park Devel•BelopisnizgeSelParkf-Est•eHolem l&andIndependence Contact us today Stimulating Curriculum hollandpark@kerensnursery.com y Meals Freshly Prepared Daily 8HealSt Jtahmes’ s Gardens W11 4RB

Bi-lingual Nursery www.kerensnursery. c om Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb 020 7602 7981

Hawkesdown House School

ss tt s t srr t r rser r rser rser n n nand andand ar ar ar rser n and ar s t r rser n and ar s t r rser n and ar Wednesda Wednesda Wednesda en m en m rn en nm rnsnrn 1 sn1 s 111 11 11 en m en m m rn rn nn sss1 11 en rn n

11 1111

st r rser n and ar

Ofsted Ofsted Outstanding Ofsted Outstanding Outstanding Ofsted Outstanding Ofsted Outstanding Ofsted Outstanding Developing Developing Developing Self-Esteem Self-Esteem Self-Esteem & Independence & Independence & Independence Developing Self-Esteem Independence Developing Self-Esteem && Independence Developing Independence StiSelf-Esteem mulati Stimulati ng Stimulati Curriculum ng& Curriculum ng Curriculum Sti mulati ng Curriculum Sti mulati Curriculum Sti mulati ng Curriculum Healthy Healthy Meals Healthy Meals Freshly Meals Freshly Prepared Freshly Prepared Prepared DailyDailyDaily Healthy Meals Freshly Prepared Daily HealthyMeals Meals Freshly Prepared Daily Healthy Freshly Prepared Daily Bi-lingual Bi-lingual Bi-lingual Nursery Nursery Nursery Bi-lingual Nursery Bi-lingual Nursery Bi-lingual Nursery

Wednesda en m rnn s 1 11

OurOur branches: Our branches: branches: Hampstead Hampstead Hampstead Garden Garden Garden Suburb Suburb Suburb Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb Our branches: Garden Suburb Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb • Belsize • Belsize •Hampstead Park Belsize Park • Holland Park • Holland • Holland ParkPark Park Belsize Park • Holland Belsize Park Holland Park • ••Belsize Park • Holland Park Contact Contact Contact us today us today usPark today Contact us today Contact us us today Contact today hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com hollandpark@kerensnursery.com 8 St8James’s St 8James’s St James’s Gardens Gardens Gardens W11W11 4RB W11 4RB 4RB James’s Gardens 8StSt StJames’s James’s Gardens Gardens W11 W11 4RB 88 W114RB 4RB

www.kerensnursery.com www.kerensnursery.com www.kerensnursery.com www.kerensnursery.com www.kerensnursery.com www.kerensnursery.com 020 020 7602 020 7602 7602 7981 7981 Ofsted Outstandi ng 7981 020 7602 0207602 3457 7981 8020 020 7981

Developing Self-Esteem & Independence Stimulating Curriculum Claremont Fan Court School Healthy Meals Freshly Prepared Daily Pre-Preparatory Bi-lingual Nursery

27 Edge Street, Kensington, London W8 7PN Telephone: 0207 727 9090 Email: admin@hawkesdown.co.uk www.hawkesdown.co.uk

An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

and Nursery School

Children join the Pre-Nursery class in the term they turn three.

Please come and visit us.

To arrange an appointment, telephone 01372 463695 or email preprepschool@claremont.surrey.sch.uk

Our branches: Hampstead Garden Suburb •Belsize Park • Holland Park Contact us today hollandpark@kerensnursery.com 8 St James’s Gardens W11 4RB

Claremont Fan Court School Claremont Drive Esher Surrey KT10 9LY

www.claremont-school.co.uk 116 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

www.kerensnursery.com

education

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

EDUCATION

NEWS

EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM

NUMBER PLAY

Make maths exciting with The Curious Dragons learning games.

Developed by a maths teacher, the interactive system nurtures numerical and reasoning abilities in children aged three to five.

From filling nests with dragon eggs to matching numbers, the games are a brilliantly fun way to learn. £29.99, thecuriousdragons.co.uk

If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector. The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARCUS HARVEY

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700.

The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

The games will instil a love of maths in your little one that will last a lifetime

BRIGHT SPARK

INFINITY AND BEYOND

There’s a new character joining the Little Miss collection – and she has a passion for all things STEM. Little Miss Inventor is full of ideas, which she turns into inventions in her garden shed. The book launches on 8 March, to coincide with International Women’s Day and British Science Week. £3.99, Egmont Publishing

Did you know, the first British astronaut was female? Helen Sharman, who journeyed into space in 1991, recently visited the girls at Kensington Prep School to mark its first STEM Week. Pupils were immersed in Helen’s story with the help of the school’s new Explore Floor feature – a piece of technology designed to transport viewers to a different world. kensingtonprep.gdst.net

RESEARCH BY THE RETAILER WOODEN FURNITURE STORE HAS FOUND THAT FAMILIES WITH BABIES AGED TWO AND UNDER ARE SPENDING A COMBINED ANNUAL TOTAL OF £4.6 BILLION TO PUT THEIR CHILDREN IN PART-TIME CHILDCARE. THAT EQUATES TO MORE THAN £6,000 PER FAMILY!

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 117

EDUCATION

Cracking the day care code IT’S A BIG DECISION DU RING TH EIR E AR LY YE AR S, SO HOW DO YOU CH OOSE TH E RIGHT N U R SERY FOR YOU R CHILD, ASKS Georgina Blaskey

he inaugural day your child goes to nursery is the first milestone in their education. For some children it can be an exciting journey, the prospect of which leaves them totally unfazed. For others, it can be a daunting, nerve-wracking first rung on the learning ladder. For a parent, it can be a time of adjustment and reflection, when we can explore our choices and ponder what kind of child we have and where they are best suited.

In order to make this transition run smoothly, it is worth taking the time to prepare and fully investigate all options. No one knows your family’s needs as well as you so while recommendations are invaluable, nothing can replace a personal visit to work out what the right fit is. “Visit a nursery early in the day when the children are being dropped off,” advises Laura Randall, principal of Woodentops Nursery in Balham. “Ideally you will see the children reaching out to their teachers. You want to go where your children will feel loved.”

It’s worth noting that pre-school education isn’t compulsory and there are many options beyond the standard local nursery school, but what’s important is that your children are able to flourish and thrive – socially, cognitively, emotionally and physically – wherever they are. One gently alternative option is the Montessori method, developed by Italian doctor Maria Montessori in the early 20th century, now far more mainstream, with many ‘normal’ nurseries adopting some of her techniques. In a true Montessori classroom,

T

118 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

children work largely on their own with special equipment designed to develop their sensory, numeric, language and practical skills.

Handwriting and numeracy are not formally learnt, they are experienced through play and at the behest of the child.

Forest nursery schools are becoming increasingly popular as an antidote to our rapidly advancing technological lives, too.

Leanna Barrett was so dismayed by the outdoor facilities in her area when looking for a nursery for her daughter, she decided to start one herself. “When visiting nurseries, I’d often be told the children went out for an hour a day and be shown a man-made spongy

THE BETTER YOUR UNDERSTANDING, THE MORE RELAXED YOU’LL FEEL WHEN SEPTEMBER COMES AROUND surface where they’d play,” Leanna recalls. “I was so disappointed, I started Little Forest Folk on Wimbledon Common. It’s an outdoor forest nursery that immerses two to five year olds in nature, helping them become creative, resilient little learners.” The concept has been very popular. “Now we have three nurseries in London, with two more opening this year, and a waiting list of more than 1,000 parents!”

Making the decision about how to tackle pre-school education involves many stages, so a good place to start is location – do you want

to be close to home, work or the station you commute from? Some nurseries have strong connections to junior schools so if you have your heart set on a certain school, it may be worth asking which ones they recommend.

Always try to speak to other parents (you could aim to arrive when they’re dropping off and have a quick chat) and read up on the latest inspection reports. It’s always wise to visit a few to be able to make comparisons and get a clear idea of the differences between them. It may be the class size, playground

Children learn through play, so look for somewhere that places high value on children doing activities they enjoy

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A NURSERY

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Attend your visit armed with queries about how each place operates and how the children learn. The impartial education website gettherightschool.co.uk has compiled these questions to aid your decision-making:

facilities or staff, but the better your understanding, the more relaxed you’ll feel when September comes around.

The Good Schools Guide suggests parents take time to consider the environment their child is most suited to – somewhere with a busy, purposeful setting, somewhere calm and ordered, somewhere with rules and boundaries or a place where children are free to explore and experiment.

It also advises, whatever your thoughts on the type and nature of the school, when entrusting the care of your child to others, you should look to find a nursery that will: • Work with you and listen to your child.

• Work from your child’s current development stage and needs, not from pre-conceived notions of what a two, three or four year old should do.

• Seek to develop your child’s confidence.

• Encourage good behaviour and cooperation.

• Develop an awareness of, and sensitivity to, others and their feelings.

• Be interested in the personal, social and emotional development of your child.

Once you’ve decided where your child is best suited to, it’s important to get them registered so you don’t miss out on that nursery place. In some areas nursery places are over-subscribed and it’s elbows at the ready to bag that in-demand seat at the Playdoh table.

Do your homework early and your preparation should make the journey easy and successful.

A final thought to remember – if it doesn’t feel right, you can always change your mind.

As your children grow, your views on nursery education may also change, so be flexible and alert to their progress and happiness.

• What resources and equipment do you have to support children’s learning?

• How are activities planned and organised to meet the Early Years Foundation Stage?

• Do you provide any additional help and support to under-fives with special education needs?

• How many children do you have attending?

• What sort of activities do the children do?

• How is the average day/session organised?

• How do staff manage bad behaviour?

• What qualifications and experience do the staff have?

• How long have you been operating?

• Do you have outdoor and indoor areas for children to play and learn?

• Do children have a rest during the day?

• What time do sessions start and finish?

• Is there a sibling policy?

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 119

Flying with children?

You need a

TravelSnug

TM

Built on Tradition – Embracing the Future

Keep little ones cosy with this soft, fleecy carry - on cushion that fits perfectly into aircraft seats making it easier for junior passengers to get comfortable. Portable, light weight, washable, tumble dry -able, TravelSnug makes flying child’s play.

www.TravelSnug.co.uk

Made in the UK

Co-ed 2-4 years, Boys aged 4-13 years PARKSIDE SCHOOL, COBHAM IS SET IN 45 ACRES OF BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE. SCHOOL BUS ROUTES IN PLACE.

Next Open Morning, Friday 2nd Febuary 2018 To register please email office@parkside-school.co.uk www.parkside-school.co.uk

twitter.com/parksideprep

facebook.com/ parksideprep

Co-educational boarding and day 3–13 Years

Cheam School, Headley, Newbury, Berkshire, RG19 8LD registrar@cheamschool.co.uk +44 (0)1635 268242 www.cheamschool.com @cheamschool

120 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

OUT AND ABOUT

mini

AGENDA

Lianne Kolirin ROU N DS U P TH E CAPITAL’S BE ST EVENTS

London’s New Year’s Day Parade 2018

London’s New Year’s Day Parade 2018

Family Sounds

Sorted!

CENTRAL LONDON Piccadilly to Westminster londonparade.co.uk

WIGMORE HALL 36 Wigmore Street, London W1U 2BP wigmore-hall.org.uk

THE POSTAL MUSEUM 15-20 Phoenix Place, London WC1X 0DA 0300 0300 700 postalmuseum.org

If your head is not too sore, wrap up the kids and venture into the capital for a brilliant, family-friendly way to welcome in 2018. Catch the parade as it meanders towards Westminster with floats, clowns, horses, brass bands and more. Also running alongside the parade is the LNYDP concert series and choral festival in music venues across London.

Admission: Free.

Monday 1 January, from 12pm.

Little ones aged up to five years are invited to this lively music-making workshop to help co-create a new piece inspired by the music of Wigmore’s composer in residence, Helen Grime. Workshop leaders Esther Sheridan, Lucy Drever and Gawain Hewitt will use singing, play and poetry to get the kids’ creative juices flowing.

Admission: Adults, £8; children, £6.

Saturday 17 February, 1pm.

There’s so much for children of all ages to do at London’s newest family destination.

Sorted! is the museum’s dedicated play space for children aged up to eight.

Discover an immersive mini town with streets, buildings, trolleys, slides and chutes.

Admission: £5 per child and accompanying adult.

Daily drop-in sessions last 45 minutes, 10am to 4pm.

Nick Cope’s Family Songbook ROYAL ALBERT HALL Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP royalalberthall.com Monkeys, bears, socks and mud – this guy sings about anything!

Bringing his own brand of acoustic folk-rock to the world of children’s music, Nick Cope creates interactive concerts for babies and children aged up to eight years. Sit back and relax, or get up and dance!

Admission: Adults, £10; children; £7; babies under one go free.

Wednesday 14 February, 11am and 2pm.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 121

BRICKLIVE Christmas

Glisten

Toddler Time on the Cutty Sark

Magical Lantern Festival

Magical Lantern Festival

Glisten

CHISWICK HOUSE & GARDENS Burlington Lane, Chiswick, London W4 2RP magicallantern.uk/london

HALF MOON THEATRE 43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND 020 7709 8900 halfmoon.org.uk

The Magical Lantern Festival is back, but this time only for the festive period, so book before it closes as this fusion of culture, colour and sculpture is sure to be popular. Besides the lanterns, there’s plenty to eat and drink, plus fairground rides.

Admission: Adults, £16.50; children, £10; under-threes go free.

Until Monday 1 January, from 5pm.

Glisten is an interactive performance for babies aged up to 18 months and their carers.

Be swept away on an immersive journey exploring the world of reflective materials. Watch as the empty space of the theatre fills with colour, sounds and surprises, creating a sensory landscape ready to explore.

Admission: £7 each.

Thursday 22 to Saturday 24 February, times vary.

Pop! A Magical Comedy Show

BRICKLIVE Christmas

LAUDERDALE HOUSE Waterlow Park, Highgate Hill, London N6 5HG 020 8348 8716 lauderdalehouse.co.uk Join hapless hero Christian Lee and be astounded in this totally word-free clown and magic show that follows his exciting adventures at the seaside.

Admission: £8.50 each; babies under 18 months go free.

Saturday 13 January, 10.30am.

122 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

The Little Gym of Westfield

Toddler Time on the Cutty Sark

WESTFIELD LONDON Unit 2117A-3111, Ariel Way, London W12 7GE 020 8735 0817 westfield.thelittlegym.eu

CUTTY SARK King William Walk, London SE10 9HT rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

It’s never too early for your little one to start learning, and The Little Gym of Westfield offers classes to promote early development, filled with movement, music and play.

Children as young as four months can join any time.

Admission: Family membership, £40; semester fees also apply.

Daily, from 9.15am.

Toddler Street Dance

SAATCHI GALLERY Duke Of York’s HQ, Kings Road, London SW3 4RY bricklivechristmas.com

STRATFORD CIRCUS ARTS CENTRE Theatre Square, Stratford, London E15 1BX stratford-circus.com

This festive version of the popular Lego expo stretches into the new year at the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea. It promises plenty of activities and art workshops, as well as amazing displays and hands-on fun.

Admission: £15 each.

Until Saturday 7 January, session times vary.

Get moving, get grooving and get down to Stratford for this funky dance class. Toddlers can explore street dance with fun exercises that will develop coordination and confidence.

Admission: £7 per child and accompanying adult.

Every Monday during term time, 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

The Cutty Sark hosts these fun weekly sessions for under-fours.

The theme changes every week, so head over to Greenwich with your little sailors for songs, stories and playtime.

Admission: £5 per child and accompanying adult.

Every Wednesday during term time, 10am and 1.20pm.

Farewell to Christmas THE GEFFRYE MUSEUM 136 Kingsland Road, London E2 8EA geffrye-museum.org.uk The Geffrye Museum is closing its doors for two years for what promises to be an exciting transformational project. But before it does, it is throwing a party to say au revoir to Christmas and visitors. Enjoy street food, cocktails, live music, workshops and more.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 6 January, 3.30pm to 5pm, and Sunday 7 January, 10am to 5pm.

OUT AND ABOUT Imagine Children’s Festival

Orchids Festival

Lumiere London

Funtastic Sundays

PHOTOGRAPHY: STEPHEN BEENY; HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES; MAGIC LIGHT PICTURES; ENTRE LES RANGS_RAMI BEBAWI & KANV/ COURTESY OF ARTICHOKE

London Children’s Book Swap DISCOVER CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE 383-387 High Street, Stratford, London E15 4QZ discover.org.uk Children of all ages are welcome at the seventh annual London Children’s Book Swap at Discover. Bring along a favourite tale to swap for something new, then explore the centre for loads more fun.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 10 February, 1pm to 4.30pm.

Funtastic Sundays KENSINGTON PALACE Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX 020 3166 6000 hrp.org.uk On the last Sunday of the month, Kensington Palace opens its doors to families.

These fun-filled activity days include the chance to try out the palace’s activity bags and trails, enjoy storytime or take part in creative workshops.

Admission: Adults, £19; children go free.

Sunday 25 February.

Orchids Festival

Peppa Pig’s Adventure

KEW GARDENS Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE 020 8332 5655 kew.org

HACKNEY EMPIRE 291 Mare Street, London E8 1EJ 020 8985 2424 hackneyempire.co.uk

Banish the winter blues with a dazzling burst of colour at this year’s Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens. For the first time, the festival is inspired by exotic Thailand, with creative displays and orchid-related activities to appeal to all ages.

Admission: Adults, from £12.75; children, from £2.50; underfours go free.

Saturday 10 February to Sunday 11 March.

Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with George and her school friends. With lunches packed and Daddy Pig driving, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of games, laughter and music.

Admission: From £10 each.

Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 February, 10am, 1pm and 4pm.

Sleepyhead

Lumiere London

LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE 14 Dagmar Passage, London N1 2DN 020 72261787 littleangeltheatre.com

VENUES ACROSS LONDON lumiere-festival.com

Dad’s usually got some tricks up his sleeve to help send Baby off to sleep – but Baby has other ideas! This performance features plenty of magic and silliness, aimed at children aged two to five years.

Admission: Adults, £13; children, £7; babies under one go free.

Until Sunday 4 February.

Bigger, brighter and bolder, the Lumiere London light festival returns for a spectacular second year. More than 40 artists reimagine London’s iconic architecture and streets, transforming the city into a dazzling nocturnal art exhibition, with something that will appeal to all ages.

Admission: Free.

Thursday 18 to Sunday 21 January.

Imagine Children’s Festival SOUTHBANK CENTRE Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX southbankcentre.co.uk A highlight in the capital’s family calendar, the Imagine Children’s Festival returns for another bumper-packed year.

Keep little ones of all ages entertained over February half term and beyond with everything from musical performances to storytelling.

Admission: Many events are free but prices may vary for specific activities.

Wednesday 7 to Sunday 18 February, times vary.

Mega Family Rave FIRE LONDON 39 Parry Street, Vauxhall, London SW8 1RT bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk It’s time to party with those fun-loving people from Big Fish Little Fish! There will also be face painting, sensory crafts and a dedicated chill-out zone.

Admission: Adults, £10; children; £7; pre-walkers go free.

Saturday 27 January, 2pm to 4.30pm.

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 123

OUT AND ABOUT Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales

SUBSCRIBE TO LITTLE LONDON

1 YEAR for just £19.50

G LIVE London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA glive.co.uk Enjoy not one, not two, not three, but four terrific Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler tales in one fun family show.

Expect funky moves, toetapping tunes and giggles!

Admission: £15 each.

Monday 19 February, 1.30pm and 3.30pm.

February Frolics Lambing Event WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF willowsactivityfarm.com Tuck the Shepherd will be on hand to supervise the newest members of the flock being born, with live bottle feeding demos every day. Visitors can also make fleecy crafts and watch performances by Peter Rabbit and friends.

Admission: Adults, from £11; children, from £13; under-twos go free.

Saturday 10 to Tuesday 18 February, 10am to 5.30pm.

124 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Music and Movement MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL museumoflondon.org.uk Head to these monthly term time sessions for toddlers and their carers, then explore and play in the museum’s interactive Mudlarks gallery.

Admission: Free.

Tuesday 16 January and 20 February, 10am and 11am.

Grand New Year Steam Up LONDON MUSEUM OF WATER & STEAM Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, London TW8 0EN 020 8568 4757 waterandsteam.org.uk The Grand New Year Steam Up is your chance to see all the museum’s majestic engines powering into 2018. Families can enjoy seasonal fun, and the café will be serving hot food throughout, giving Christmas cooks a well-earned rest!

Admission: Adults, £12.50; children, £5.50; under-twos go free.

Monday 1 January, 11am to 4pm.

includes FREE iPad access

SAVE ��% THE STYLISH MAGAZINE FOR PARENTS IN THE CAPITAL Little London guides you through the next stage of the adventure that is childhood – from nursery, first trips away from home and the most exciting activities and events in and around the capital, to the hottest holidays, coolest kidswear and interiors ideas.

PLUS expert advice on your child’s health and education.

Plus get a FREE GIFT!

Micro Scooters’ unique patterned bag, water bottle and waterproof poncho – the perfect accessories designed with scooting adventures in mind.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Call 01442 820580, or visit webscribe.co.uk/magazine/littlelondon and quote CLLOXM17

FREE GIFT worth £32.85

* Gift offer applies to Direct Debit orders only. GIFTS available while stocks last

Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales

Groups & Classes A SELEC TION OF LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

FOR LITTLE LEARNERS

MUSIC FOR LITTLE ONES

INTERACTIVE CLASSES

Workshops across London Check out the Little Discovery classes for ages six months to 24 months old.

These allow babies to explore their senses with music, colours and shapes.

Little Maths Rhythm & Shapes and Little Science are two after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps into the world of numbers and science that much easier. The Little Maths workshops, for two to four year olds, builds their confidence with numbers.

While the Little Science workshop, for ages three to 11 years, introduces new scientific concepts through discussions and experiments.

0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com

Classes and kids’ parties Jingle Jam Music runs jazz-inspired classes and parties for children aged five and under. By using songs, sounds and stories these 45-minute sessions, run by professional jazz musicians, allow young children to benefit from a variety of musical stimulation. They require child and adult participation, which helps develop social skills such as sharing, expression and confidence.

“What a band! They’ll elevate your children’s party into a festival of coolness and art. There will still be sick everywhere, and tantrums, but the quality of jazz will distract you.” – Russell Brand.

07905 979024 jinglejamkids.co.uk

South West London classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers Fun and informative classes that offer a great opportunity to learn about early child communication and what you can do to support this important life skill. Sessions include information and handouts relating to child speech and language development, alongside a selection of activities, songs and rhymes. The topics covered include early communication skills; listening and attention; eye contact; turn taking; copying; exploring sounds and early words. Classes are also available for toddlers and pre-schoolers.

07549 296995 swlondon@talkingtots.info talkingtots.info/swlondon

FUN FRENCH LESSONS FOR CHILDREN

COOKING ACTIVITIES FOR LITTLE CHEFS

FUNKY PRE-SCHOOL DANCE CLASSES FOR BOYS AND GIRLS

Chelsea, Putney, Notting Hill and St John’s Wood/Maida Vale Club Petit Pierrot, London’s premier French club since 1993, offers innovative, stimulating immersion programmes for children from eight months old. Led by a team of passionate and qualified native teachers, children will flourish and learn French effortlessly while having fun with a wide range of activities.

Language experts agree that learning a second language early in life enhances overall cognitive skills and improves brain development.

020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

Hosting cooking classes and birthday parties in your own home Kids en Cuisine cooking classes are the perfect way to show little chefs how to cook flavoursome dishes. Even from an early age, it’s important children learn the benefits of a healthy, balanced diet. Your child will gain experience using various cooking items to help them develop their fine motor skills and senses in a safe environment, plus expand their vocabulary. Little chefs will try new flavours, textures and learn while having fun. All activities take place at home.

020 3015 2966 info@kidsencuisine.com kidsencuisine.com

Classes across London Diddi Dance runs funky preschool dance classes, exploring 16 different dance styles from hip hop and bollywood to salsa and jive.

Encouraging endless enthusiasm and energy, little movers will love these action-packed 45-minute sessions.

Each class is suitable for boys and girls aged from 18 months, however, lots of younger children love it too, so – to see if your toddler will enjoy it – why not contact your local Diddi Dance franchise today? Enjoy a free trial or book in for a half term block.

07973 982790 info@diddidance.com diddidance.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 125

CHELSEA, BELGRAVIA, GLOUCESTER ROAD, PIMLICO E: chelsea.westminster@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8767 9827 PUTNEY, BARNES, FULHAM E: putneybarnesfulham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8480 6064 MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, HAMPSTEAD, KENSINGTON, NOTTING HILL E: hampstead.nottinghill@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8438 0189

Maternity Nightwear & Loungewear

www.bumpkyn.co.uk

ies s ub n in er Cl ru urs so N al ls & o ho Sc

Little Discovery & Maths Classes

Horkesley Joinery Ltd Bespoke Wooden • Stair Gates • Fire Guards • Stair Refurbs

WEEKLY CLASSES PRESENTING AN EXCITING NEW CONCEPT FOR CHILDREN AGED 1-4 YEARS TO BEGIN THEIR WONDERFUL JOURNEY THROUGH THE WORLD

01206 271 509 info@horkesleyjoinery.co.uk www.horkesleyjoinery.co.uk

TERM CLASSES & HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS ARE HELD AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:

Notting Hill, W11: Mondays, 14.15 & 15.00 Chelsea, SW3: Tuesdays, 9.25 & 10.15 Contact us also for Little Science (3-11 years) Classes e

126 | JAN/FEB18 | babylondon.co.uk

t: 0800 092 1062

ENJOY 10% OFF AT CHECKOUT WITH BABY10

Artistic. Relaxed. Timeless. www.samantha-black.com

SHOPPING

London

Boutiques

FOR TH E FIN E ST SELEC TION OF HAN D -PICKED LON DON BOUTIQU E S, H ER E’S OU R SH OPPING GUIDE

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 127

THE LITTLE WHITE COMPANY

The Little White Company’s immaculate stores are a favourite with stylish mamas looking for luxury clothes, bedding and toys that are still practical and affordable. From gorgeous cashmere sweaters to the cutest ballet slippers and pure cotton sleepwear, everything at The Little White Company maintains the simple, elegant aesthetic of the adult collection but with a touch of childhood magic thrown in too.

STORES ACROSS LONDON thewhitecompany.com

SERAPHINE

The Seraphine story began back in 2002, with the opening of its flagship boutique on Kensington High Street. Offering stylish, high-quality maternity fashion for mothers-to-be, the label has dressed everyone from A-listers to royalty. As well as the company’s main line, Seraphine Luxe provides women with a wider choice of maternity occasionwear, plus a bespoke design services for exclusive international clientele.

179 KENSINGTON HIGH STREET, LONDON W8 6SH seraphine.com

LA COQUETA

Inspired by the childhood of founder and mother of five, Celia Muñoz, La Coqueta’s collection channels the sweeter, more old-fashioned look of the Spanish aesthetic faultlessly. Timeless smock designs, ruffled collars, vintage-style frocks and delicate pointelle knits are given a contemporary twist with fresh cuts, rich colours and modern prints.

5 HEATH STREET, LONDON NW3 6TP 61 LEDBURY ROAD, LONDON W11 2AA lacoquetakids.com

LUNA & CURIOUS

Luna & Curious, the trendy boutique based in East London, is a treasure trove of goodies, with pieces for baby, mum and the home. Established in 2006, the founding trio have a passion for high-quality, traditional craftsmanship, constantly sourcing new talent from near and far.

The store even stocks some Baby London favourites, including Piu Pia, Amy & Ivor and What Mother Made.

24-26 CALVERT AVENUE, LONDON E2 7JP lunaandcurious.com

MARIE-CHANTAL

Founded by HRH Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, this beautiful childrenswear collection is made from the most luxurious fabrics, including pure cotton and cashmere. In the boutiques you’ll find traditional-meets-contemporary pieces for babies, girls and boys from newborn up to 12 years old. The clothing exudes modern elegance, and the comprehensive collection of baby essentials includes cosy sleep suits, cotton rompers and bib sets.

STORES AND CONCESSIONS ACROSS LONDON mariechantal.co.uk

MAMAS & PAPAS

From cots to clothing, pushchairs to playtime accessories, Mamas & Papas is your go-to store for picking up everything you need for baby. Founded in 1981, the business was born out of a desire to better meet the needs of new parents, debuting with a range of coloured prams.

Now, 35 years on, and with branches and stockists across the world, we challenge you to leave its boutiques empty handed. Be sure to check out its most recent launch, the Ocarro pram.

STORES ACROSS LONDON mamasandpapas.com

128 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOPPING

WILD & GORGEOUS

ON LIN E

Designing for both girls and boys from newborn to 15 years old, Wild & Gorgeous has proven a hit with families worldwide. Luckily for London parents, the brand’s flagship store is in the heart of bustling Notting Hill, where you can browse the beautiful clothes and accessories to your heart’s content, with a second boutique in Primrose Hill.

52 LEDBURY ROAD, LONDON W11 2AJ 73 REGENT’S PARK ROAD, LONDON NW1 8UY wildandgorgeous.co.uk

SMALLABLE

ON LIN E

Smallable is the French-born online concept store stocking a whole range of designers from across the globe – from well-known names to emerging labels. Shop a selection of fashion, furniture, toys and decorations, with clothing sizes from newborn to age 16. And the next time you’re in Paris, take a trip to its bricks-and-mortar store in the St Germain-des-Près quarter for a hearty dose of Gallic je ne sais quoi. en.smallable.com

SCANDIBØRN

For those who love the Nordic aesthetic, Scandibørn is the name to know. Launched in 2016, the family-run online retailer stocks a whole host of Scandinavian brands, plenty of which are new and exclusive to the UK market. You can shop for everything from clothing and shoes to nursery furniture and toys and some of our favourites labels including Cam Cam Copenhagen and Ooh Noo. scandiborn.co.uk

ON LIN E

ALEX AND ALEXA

STOCKISTS

PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY

Home to more than 200 fashion, sportswear and toy brands from across the world, Alex and Alexa is one of the coolest online boutiques around. Founded a decade ago by husband and wife team Alex Theophanous and Alexa Till, the site remains dedicated to offering parents ‘the world’s best kids’ brands’ at the click of button. alexandalexa.com

Charles wears wool romper, £49.95, The Bonnie Mob. Merino wool top, £42, Mabli. Cotton-blend tights (pack of three), £9, Marks & Spencer. Cashmere blanket, £155, Brora. Acrylic blanket, £24.99, H&M Home. Wooden spool (set of three), £3.50, Grapat at Babipur. Wooden blocks, £48, Ooh Noo at Scandibørn.

Amy & Ivor Babipur Blue Almonds Bonpoint Brora Caramel Easy Peasy H&M Home Jellycat Liberty Marie-Chantal Marks & Spencer Moon Paris Mori Natural Baby Shower Oeuf NYC Pepa & Co Piu Pia Smallable Scandibørn The Bonnie Mob The Little White Company

amyandivor.com babipur.co.uk bluealmonds.co.uk bonpoint.com brora.co.uk caramel-shop.co.uk easypeasy.fr hm.com jellycat.com libertylondon.com mariechantal.co.uk marksandspencer.com moonparisclothing.fr babymori.com naturalbabyshower.co.uk oeufnyc.com pepaandcompany.com piupia.co.uk en.smallable.com scandiborn.co.uk thebonniemob.com thewhitecompany.com

babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 129

BUSINESS

The brand’s accessories include long-sleeved bibs for meals and messy play

INSPIRE What first inspired you to set up BabyBjörn?

My brother had five children and I babysat a lot for his family so I knew anything that could make life easier for families would be welcome. My aunt also had a group of children from Finland living at her house during World War II, so I had grown fond of babies and small children at an early age. When I came to realise that a product like the baby bouncer would keep babies happy and therefore give mum a little time to get everyday things done, I was inspired to create BabyBjörn. I was just 27 when I founded the company in 1961, and together with some designers, the baby bouncer was the first product we brought to the market.

What was your background before you set up the business?

I studied for an academic degree in Political Science. And from a business point of view I worked for Swedish Shell and in a meat cutting business, so starting BabyBjörn was definitely a great departure from what I was used to doing every day.

130 | JAN/FEB 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

BJÖRN JAKOBSON The Swedish-born entrepreneur and founder of BabyBjörn discusses family, business and proud moments Were your own children an inspiration for the brand?

We have four children who are all grown up now – Joakim, 54; Siri, 53; Lisa, 50, and Josefin, 44.

We also have 10 grandchildren who range in age from three to 23 years. All 14 of them have certainly been inspirations for the brand over the years as our products have evolved. Our daughter Lisa was so messy when eating that we needed to develop a bib! So we did this when she

was a year old, in 1968. Josefin was the only child I could carry in my own baby carrier and that was such a precious time.

Describe a typical day for you.

I have retired from my position as chairman of the board for BabyBjörn but I do a lot of consulting work for the brand still to this day. I read a lot of news and take long walks to think things through. My wife Lillemor and I have an art centre in Stockholm’s archipelago called Artipelag, that needs a lot of my attention but is also a great passion of mine. Then I am also the CEO and chairman for the group’s parent company, Lillemor Design, so as you can imagine it all keeps me very active!

What’s your advice for anyone wanting to start a business?

Keep a close eye on your cash flow, and believe in your ideas and have the courage to realise them. As a businessman it was always my goal to be independent of external money and investment. It’s also important to take care of your health when your brand has been around for as long as mine has!

What has been your proudest moment for the business?

We have huge numbers of celebrities who love our products, and the brand is constantly evolving to remain at the cutting edge of the market, but for me it’s about the simple things. To see fathers around the world walking about with their little babies on their chest in our baby carrier, enjoying that wonderful feeling of closeness, that is very special indeed.

What are your plans for 2018?

To stay healthy and to do my best socially, business-wise and family-wise. babybjorn.co.uk

BRO OMWO OD HALL BOYS & GIRLS 4-8 YEARS

L OW E R S C H O O L O P E N DAY S RAMSDEN ROAD SW12

GARRAD’S ROAD SW16

Wednesday 7 March 2018 Presentation starts at 9.25am

192 Ramsden Road SW12 8RQ & 50 Nightingale Lane SW12 8TE

9.00 – 10.15am

Please register by contacting admissions@northwoodschools.com Tel: 020 8682 8830 www.broomwood.co.uk

NORTHCOTE LODGE BOYS 8-13 YEARS

O P E N DAY Saturday 19 May 2018 9.00 – 10.30am

26 BOLINGBROKE GROVE, SW11 6EL Please register by contacting admissions@northwoodschools.com Tel: 020 8682 8830 www.northcotelodge.co.uk

Thursday 15 March 2018 Presentation starts at 9.45am

3 Garrad’s Road London SW16 1JZ

W

I NNE R

AWARDS 2017 BEST TOUR OPERATOR FOR FAMILIES