Baby London March/April 2016

baby london MARCH/APRIL 2016

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LOCAL LIVING GUIDE THE BEST THINGS

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WHAT TO BUY, WEAR, SEE AND DO

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Layers of Merino work perfectly for extra warmth on cold nights by trapping air between its fine fibres – which is why it keeps us, and the sheep on the tops of cold mountains, so warm!

But Merino’s unique ‘breathability’ ensures never getting too hot as it has the amazing ability to release up to 40% of its own weight in moisture before it feels damp.

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W W W. N IN E IN T H E M IRRO R. CO M 3. 1 P H I L L I P L I M • J O S E P H • L A N V I N • MI SSONI • PRAB AL G URUNG • VAL ENTI NO • AND MANY MO RE

CONTENTS MAR /APR 2016

Chase wears peter-pan collar bodysuit, £12, JoJo Maman Bébé. Cashmere cardigan, from £98, Brora. Cotton shorts, £33, Patachou

Seasonal gift ideas for your baby

25

42 PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN

FEATURES

56 BRIGHT SPARKS Ben and Una Foden tell all about life as a busy family of four 62 A GIRAFFE CALLED SOPHIE We unravel the history of the iconic teether, and reveal its latest collaboration 66 EASTER Carole Middleton talks egg-citing egg hunts for your little bunnies 72 MOTHER TO MOTHER Jenny Scott on fighting the loneliness of motherhood 85 TOT GEAR Say hello to the Mutsy Igo Pure, plus check out the best stroller boards A little light Easter reading

88 OVERCOMING GUILT How to beat the grip of mother guilt 92 CONTRACEPTION AFTER BIRTH Your essential questions answered 96 10 LIFE HACKS FOR NEW MAMAS No beauty sleep? No problem. Take it all in your stride with these health tips 98 NEARLY THERE! Louisa van den Bergh talks you through the final trimester 101 EMBARRASSING BODIES Your guide to coping with pregnancy ailments 110 KEEP ON MOVING Why staying active is the key to a happy and healthy pregnancy

36

135 BILINGUAL BABY The benefits of exposing your children to new languages from an early age 138 A HELPING HAND Finding the right nanny for your family

STYLE

42 FASHION BUNNIES Key pieces to put a spring in their step 52 SHOP THE SHOOT Our pick of Easter prints in pastel hues 55 WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS The capital’s up-and-coming designers 76 MOTHER EARTH The softest textures for mum and baby 82 SHOP THE SHOOT Get the look with these must-haves

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56 Editor Susannah Warren Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Senior Sub Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton Publisher Chatty Dobson Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Marketing Manager Will Delmont Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Stephanie Organ, Ginny Maclean

SHOPPING

Business Development Manager Thiago Alves Sales Manager Amy Thacker Sales Executives Harriet Cottrell, Helena Murphy

23 BABY LONDON LOVES Step into spring with these new kicks 25 SHOP EASTER Stylish gift ideas for your little one 69 GO ORGANIC Our round-up of where to shop ethical 75 MOTHER’S DAY Beautiful and thoughtful gifts to treasure 114 STYLISH STORAGE De-clutter with chic storage solutions

15

FOOD

33

117 FOOD NEWS Table talk for baby and you 118 KEEPING IT REAL Organix reveals the effects ‘engineered’ foods are having on our children 120 DAD-LED WEANING Sam Fortescue gets to grips with the battle of weaning daughter Olga 122 EGG-TASTIC EATS Annabel Karmel’s favourite egg recipes

Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross

Annabel Karmel ge

REGULARS

38 39 40 91 94

TRAVEL

127 TRAVEL NEWS Prepare to pack your bags 128 A POSTCARD FROM… Rural relaxtion at Lime Wood, Hampshire 132 CAPE OF GOOD HOPE Family-friendly offerings in South Africa

104 107

108 113

85

141 142 145 We test the super-stylish Mutsy Igo Pure around the streets of London

ts cooking (p.12 2)

162

BABY NEWS Stay in the know MY ESSENTIALS We chat to Blue Almonds founder, Izabela Minkiewicz BEST BOOKS FOR EASTER Seasonal reads for your little ones DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Goings-on around the capital FOCUS ON: NORTHCOTE ROAD Where to shop, eat, play and learn HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS What’s new in the world of wellbeing DIARY OF A MUM Meet newly pregnant Martha Alexander MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals TIME TO TALK… The third instalment from Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt on c-sections THE REVIEW Laura Mason tests out sterilisers INTERIOR NEWS Make your house a home EDUCATION NEWS The latest from classrooms and beyond MEET THE HEAD We get the lowdown on St Benedict’s MINI AGENDA What’s on in London this spring INSPIRE Talking business with Béatrice de Montille

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: editorial@littlemedia.co.uk

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 2016 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 £14.99.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: HELEN MARSDEN MODEL: OPHELIA Ophelia wears cotton and cashmere cardigan, £80, Stella McCartney Kids.

Bringing you closer

Stand-alone

Bedside

Bassinet

The 3 in 1 Bedside Crib

Style your W NE

Sn端zPod2 with our NEW printed bedding

See Sn端zPod2 in real homes

#snuzpod

www.snuz.co.uk

Patent leather girls shoes £32, clarks.co.uk

Oeuf NYC ruffle bloomers, vest and hat cissywears.com

EDITORʼS

LETTER

Printed cotton dungarees £37, olivierbaby.com

Keep wobbly legs going when hunting for eggs

SUSANNAH WARREN, EDITOR

PHOTOGRAPHY: KATRINA TANG

hand the A fond farewell from me as I e Finney Kat t lian bril the to k reins bac

Babylondonmagazine

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Join me online…

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Moover dolls pram £69.99, hippychick.com

Jenny Scott of creative networking agency Mothers Meeting about how bringing inspiring women together saved her from the loneliness of being a new parent (p.72).

When it comes to holidaying, South Africa is definitely having a moment. Everyone I speak to is either just back from Cape Town, about to go, or booked for 2017. With the rand at an all-time low, there’s never been a better time to head there, so we’ve asked travel experts Sally and Alice to give us their family round-up of the Western Cape. Get booking for next year, now!

With Easter soon upon us, party expert Carole Middleton has lots of sweet ideas to make your mini egg hunt a success, while food guru Annabel Karmel offers some healthy egg-based recipes which will delight both big and small. And, as usual, we’ve rounded up the best things to see and do in the capital this spring, including fabulous Easter activities for even the littlest Londoners.

Happy hunting to you all…

ND

UK

My lust-have…

Monica Vinader cuff £265, harrods.com

Who doesn’t love bunnies?

When I was small, I had my very own fluffy friend who I used to take for walks around an orchard on a piece of baler twine. A few decades later, I changed my surname to Warren after marrying a man who had been called ‘Rabbits’ at school. In short, I am a fan of the bunny, Easter or otherwise.

Even if you’re not, though, I challenge your heart not to be warmed by our adorable fashion bunnies shoot (p.42). It’s sure to inspire your baby’s new-season wardrobe, while our shopping pages are also full of adorable pieces that will put a spring in your step (p.25).

Our second shoot celebrates Mother’s Day, which is literally around the corner. (p.76). You deserve to be spoiled, and we’ve got lots of ideas on how your beloved can do just that (p.75). We also look at the issue of mother guilt (which most of us are all too familiar with) and offer ways to beat it (p.88).

Someone who doesn’t seem to suffer from this affliction is the brilliantly pragmatic Una Foden, who I was lucky enough to chat to with husband and rugby star Ben about family life and their involvement with children’s charity Sparks (p.56). We also catch up with the plucky

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babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 11

N OLIV IA

Where were you born?

Rochford Hospital, Essex.

What’s your first outfit memory?

A three-tiered, pastel-coloured party dress.

I loved it so much, I remember asking my mum to get me the next size in case I grew out of it.

Favourite spring trend for little ones?

Rainbow spots and stripes. Clashing is key, so let your children choose their own outfits!

Kellie styles up our Fashion Bunnies on p.42

, LIFE COACH AD E R

Where were you born?

Hong Kong.

What’s the best thing about being a mum?

Cuddles and giggles.

Describe your perfect Mother’s Day. I’d wake up to a breakfast of fresh fruit, coffee, toast and eggs. Then enjoy a family run-around in Hyde Park, followed by dim sum in Bayswater and a movie in the afternoon.

Olivia talks us through mother guilt on p.88

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@gNappies Any gDads to be out there?

Have a read of @Baby_London Fatherhood series, diary from Sam Fortescue is wonderful @lucy_the_red Brilliant article on from @LittleRoutines in @Baby_London magazine – thank you for sharing Gillian! @mamasVIB Looking forward to the panel discussion 'mothers mean business' @BubbleLondon with @pearllowe @honeyjamtoys @CapriceBourret_ @Baby_London Behind the scenes on our Fashion Bunnies shoot

Join in

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

#BLLOVES facebook.com/babylondonmagazine twitter.com/baby_london instagram.com/babylondonmagazine babylondon.co.uk It was an Insta-takeover as we revealed the hottest mini fashion from Bubble London

P-TO-DAT E,

YOU SAY…

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When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee and have a moment to spare, dip in and get your daily digital fix. Here’s what we’ve been up to recently…

KEE

BABY LONDON ONLINE

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D KELL IE

T, FASHIO

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Where were you born?

Melbourne, Australia.

First travel memory?

The beach holidays we had every year at Port Fairy, a sleepy coastal town in Victoria.

Any top tips for travelling with a baby?

I always carry wet wipes, nappies and Calpol in my hand luggage, as well as plenty of snacks.

Also, carry a change of clothes for yourself.

Alice reveals the best of South Africa on p.132

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CONTRIBUTORS

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NEWS

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There’s a fab new sustainable kidswear brand on the block. Made of 100% organic cotton, Tao & Friends’ first collection is stylish and comfy, featuring simple yet striking animal prints. What’s more, for each item that is sold, 1¤ will be given to charity, so you’ll feel as good as your little ones look. taoandfriends.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 15

NEWS

FASHIONS FIT FOR A PRINCE After Prince George was spotted wearing an adorable red and white smocked set by Rachel Riley to Princess Charlotte’s christening, it sold out within hours. Those who missed out first time around are in luck, though, as the British designer has created an equally scrumptious navy version of the two-piece that hits shelves in March. Act fast, as it’s sure to go like hotcakes again! £85, rachelriley.co.uk

COLOUR THEM HAPPY Spanish outfitter Bobo Choses celebrates all things bright as a spiritual gift through its creative clothing.

The SS16 collection, inspired by German artists Der Blaue Reiter, features abstract designs, bold motifs and rich embroideries using materials such as indigo waffle and textured raffia. bobochoses.com

ZEST FOR LIFE Need some wheels to whizz round the shops with or chuck in the back of a cab? Silver Cross’s new model, Zest, is amazingly lightweight.

It’s suitable from birth, has a fully extendable hood and the best seat recline in the business. And it comes in four new-season colours to boot, so you’ll be full of the joys of spring. £130, silvercrossbaby.com

A WHOLE LOTTA BOTTLE Feeding bottles promise all sorts of things, making it hard to know which one’s best for your baby. Luckily, the experts at Tommee Tippee have created the ultimate bottle that does it all. The Ultra’s extra-wide neck offers a breast-like shape for baby to latch onto, a secure seal helps to reduce air ingestion, and the innovative angled teat creates a perfectly even flow of milk. Happy feeding time! £8.99, boots.com

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

Our new arrival Our new arrival from birth to booster Our new arrival from birth to booster from birth to booster

Ultimate protection Ultimate protection with a full steel frame and Ultimate protection with a full steel frame and extended rear facing with a full steel frame use and extended rear facing use extended rear facing use

uk.diono.com uk.diono.com uk.diono.com

TOUGH LOVE

-TO-DATE, UP

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UK

• BA

Medela, the world’s leading breastfeeding brand, is launching a brand new app to support mothers.

MyMedela will track feeding sessions and baby’s activities, such as the duration of feed and sleep patterns, creating a personalised diary. Using this data, the app then provides tailored advice to support your breastfeeding experience. Free, medela.co.uk

If you’re unsure about fully swaddling your newborn, the new 2-in-1 Gro-Snug is a perfect compromise. Made from soft, stretchy cotton in two different weights, its design features front seams that allow space for a natural froggy-legged sleeping position, poppers on the armholes for arms in or out, and a bottom zip that makes nappy changing a breeze. £22.99, gro-store.com

IT • VIS

TOT TRACKER

SNUG AS A BUG

KEEP

Award-winning car seat brand Diono is launching the ultimate seat, which will last children from the moment they’re born until aged seven. The Radian 5 is the only model on the market to rear- and forward-face with a five-point harness from birth up to 25kg. And it’s not just safe, it’s easy to use, comfortable and gives more space across the back seat. £295, uk.diono.com

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SEAT SMART

The pièce de résistance of Phil & Teds’ new Voyager buggy is its two four-in-one modular seats, which transform from lie-flat bassinet into upright stroller seat with the flick of a wrist – perfect for siblings or twins. Plus, it folds it up in any mode, with both seats attached. Clever or what?

From £599, johnlewis.com

MOTHER TO MOTHER

JOIN THE TRIBE

Jojo Maman Bébé’s charity initiative, From a Mother to Another, is back again, so if your cupboards are bursting with outgrown baby clothes, why not give them to those in need?

The shop is distributing them across the UK and, for the first time, to Syrian refugees in Lebanon. jojmamanbebe.co.uk/FAMTA

Meet this fun collection of animal-themed comforters. Created by Australian label Kippins, new to our shores, this colourful crew are hand-printed using organic ink. Perfect for chewing, hugging and playing – and an NBF in the making. £19.80, cinnamonsue.co.uk d shoes cting clothes an The brand is colle ildren ch six for refugee up to the age of

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 19

NEWS

ORGANISED KAOS With its chic Scandinavian simplicity and functionality, Kaos’s collection of unisex changing bags are a must-own for busy parents who don’t want to compromise on style.

The water-resistant canvas and leather bags can be worn as a backpack, hung on a stroller or over your shoulder.

It fits everything you need for baby and you – in fact, you’ll be using it long after your nappy-changing days are over. itskaos.com

RACING AHEAD

Scooters don’t come much cooler than Kiddimoto’s new U-Zoom. Balance and confidence are sure to develop as children see the wheel lights brighten with speed, and with matching helmets available, they’re sure to stand out from the crowd. £49.99, kiddimoto.co.uk

BEST OF THE BLOGS

Catch up on everything from bargain buys to local events with The London Mummy

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

THE LONDON MUMMY As a mum of three children under the age of five, Lucinda’s blog is an essential insider’s guide to the capital, covering events and goings-on to fashion, interiors and child-friendly travel. While her ‘Spotlight’ section focuses on local businesses, ‘TLM Loves’ suggests perfect school-run footwear, Lucinda’s shopping picks of the month and even gift ideas for first-time parents. thelondonmummy.com

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

THE MILK MEG

In between looking after her three children, Aussie breastfeeding specialist Meg Nagle works to help mums achieve their breastfeeding goals. In her blog, she talks openly about everything from tiredness to the struggles of latching, colic and weaning, while her book, Boobin’ All Day, Boobin’ All Night, is a witty mix of personal experience and science-backed methods to guide new mothers. themilkmeg.com

DIARY OF THE DAD

Thirty-something dad-of-three and journalist Tom will have you laughing out loud as he shares his musings about parenthood. From school run ‘hell’ to the trials and tribulations of coping with holidays, plus the odd product review, it’s perfect sit-down-with-a-cuppa reading while the little ones are playing/napping/at nursery (delete as appropriate). You will also find him chatting about the latest parenting stories in the Love All Dads podcast. diaryofthedad.co.uk

NEW! Baby Carrier One The ultimate ergonomic edition www.babybjorn.com

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classes | cafe | personal shopping

Life.Style.Kids

We’ve done the hardwork so you don’t have to! We’ve chosen the best in healthy, modern baby products to make the transition to parenthood that little bit easier. From furniture and buggies to feeding, bathing and toys, we’ve got it covered.

Shop in-store or online at huggle.co.uk

8-10 Winchester Road, London, NW3 3NT | 0203 468 0352 | www.huggle.co.uk

BABY STYLE

LOVES Perfect for even the smallest fashion bunnies

(S)hop to it!

All hail Minna Parikka and her oh-so smooth nappa leather high-top trainers. Paired with your favourite jeans, these comfy kicks are perfect for modern mums on the run, and we love the playful signature bunny ears on the tongue. Ensure your little one matches your look with these adorable silver booties. The verdict? We’re hopping mad about them.

Adult leather trainers, £200, harveynichols.com Leather baby booties, £85, the-mini-edit.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 23

Knitted ‘Mr Bunny’ toy £40, sallynencini.com

Muslin gift set £16, lucyandbelle.com

SHOPPING

BUNNIES Want to bring a little Easter bunny magic to your home? Hop to it with these adorable rabbit-themed pieces

From a selection, mamasandpapas.com

‘Hoppy Bunny’ plastic plate £7, buddyandbear.com

Bunny comforter £10, pinklining.com

Wedgwood Peter Rabbit mug £19, harrods.com

Trousselier Little Grey Rabbit music box £28.35, en.smallable.com

Wooden oak egg cup £16, whiterabbitengland.com

Keem them cosy in this super-soft, baby blanket with bunny motif

Cotton babysuit £65, karenbrostlondon.com Miffy lamp £157, tutinitots.com

Mayoral embroidered baby nest £40, childrensalon.com

Baby blanket £23, vertbaudet.co.uk

Suede leather pram shoes £20, rositalollipop.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 25

SHOPPING

Cotton muslin swaddle £22, sarahk.co.uk

EGGS

Gro-Egg thermometer and night light £12.74, johnlewis.com

For tots too young for the chocolate kind, these bright and beautiful pieces make ideal seasonal gifts

Organic cotton playsuit £22.45, thebonniemob.com

Canvas storage bag £28, anorakonline.co.uk

Ragtales ‘Phoebe’ duck soft toy £9.95, iglookids.co.uk Fairtrade cotton vest £16, shop.littlemashers.com

‘Hide & Squeak Eggs’ toy £10, trotters.co.uk

Crocheted rattle stick £15.99, en.naturezooshop.com Sterling silver egg cup £95, gigibrooks.com

Knitted cotton romper £69, caramel-shop.co.uk

Step into spring with a stylish printed bonnet for your little one Printed cotton bonnet £24, olivierbaby.com

Hooded cotton baby towel £22, potwells.co.uk 26 | MAR/APR 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Bajo bird rattle £9.50, theweedepartmentstore.co.uk

The all round Baby Soother Improves baby’s sleep, helps to relieve colic Stimulates senses, supports sensory development

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Whisbear® the Humming Bear has won the hearts of thousands of parents and their little ones not without a reason. It is an ideal solution for a gentle transition from prenatal to postnatal life and newborn’s gradual adaptation to the surrounding world.

Whisbear’s heart is an intelligent device with CRYsensor function, softly mimicking the shushing sound that baby remembers from the Mother’s womb. The device has also been designed to respond to baby’s cry within long lasting standby mode.

Buy online at www.whisbear.co.uk

SHOPPING Anne-Claire Petit crocheted mobile £62, alexandalexa.com

LAMBS

Wrap your own little lambs in cosy shearling and cashmere, and adorn their nursery with these adorable additions

‘Linda’ lamb soft toy £25, steiff.com

From a selection, johnlewis.com Farg Form cotton blanket £29.95, northlighthomestore.com

Leather baby booties £45, donsje.com

Plan Toys sheep toy £17.99, toyella.com

Jellycat ‘Poppet’ sheep soft toy £7.50, johnlewis.com

Bowl and cup stacking set £30, weegallery.com

We love the vintage-style lace trim and pretty motif detail

Nordic Coast Company sleeping bag £50, idreamelephants.com

Knitted cashmere booties £28, olivierbaby.com

Shearling gilet £182, belleenfant-boutique.com

Bloomingville sheepskin rug £161.19, en.smallable.com

Sheep rocker £75, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 29

SHOPPING

FLOWERS

OXO Tot sippy cup £7.66, johnlewis.com

Trousselier printed plush toy £16, alexandalexa.com

Spring has sprung! Add a pop of colour to proceedings with fabulous floral prints and bright toys and accessories

Bobux leather shoes £19, ollipops.com

BB Bambino organic cotton babygrow £44.90, notonthehighstreet.com

Cashmere cardigan £95, caramel-shop.co.uk

Baby cutlery set £24.99, lullabuy.co.uk From a selection, en.smallable.com

Leather girls shoes £32, clarks.co.uk

Grimms ‘Lotus Flower’ stacking toy £29.25, toysnaturally.co.uk

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

Finn + Emma wooden teether £12.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Tiba + Marl backpack £115, scandimini.co.uk

Exotic floral prints will bring a colourful touch to baby’s bedroom Loredana LòLò padded baby nest £104, childrensalon.com Canvas floral shorts £35, whatmothermade.co.uk

INTERVIEW Inside Izabela’s Knightsbridge boutique

Massages were a pregnancy

MY ESSENTIALS

treat

The mum enjoys walks in London’s parks with her family

IZABELA MINKIEWICZ

You’ve recently given birth to your second child, how are you finding life as a mother of two?

I was anxious to begin with, as Filip is now at school, and has been for a while, and the thought of starting all over again was daunting. However, now Matylda Mia has joined us, I can’t imagine our family without her. One thing I learned from Filip is that every stage is short, so I’m trying to enjoy it all. Filip has been my greatest life teacher and I hope to learn lessons from Matylda, too.

Filip is seven. How are you finding the age gap?

It has worked well, as Filip is able to enjoy spending time with his new sister, and is lovely and gentle around her. He helps me to look after her, and is extremely protective, which I love to see.

Has your approach to motherhood changed this time?

I have always been a family

We talk to the Blue Almonds founder about becoming a mother again after six years person, however, I have learned that the most important thing is to prioritise tasks so you’re able to have a healthy work/life balance – a challenge that many women face on a day-to-day basis.

Are you delighted to have a daughter to dress up?

Of course! For years I have been buying dresses and pink items for

the store. Now I’m able to dress my own daughter in these, which is an absolute joy. My favourites have been the cashmere baby grows, pom-pom coats and hats I designed with Madeleine Thompson, and she was christened in one of the gowns we have from Isabel Garreton.

What were your favourite pregnancy treats?

My favourites were massages, walks in the park and movie nights with my family. And also a great Italian meal to eat. My boys took great care of me, and often my breakfast would be served in bed!

Izabela loves to dress Matylda in pieces from Blue Almond’s Madeleine Thompson collection

Any advice for new mothers?

Spend as much time as you can with your newborn as they grow so quickly. Stay as present as possible, and cuddle and kiss a lot!

What’s in your changing bag?

Aden + Anais muslins, nappies, Little Butterfly London organic creams, and lots of disposable plastic bags for changing time.

As Matylda will start teething soon, I’ve already equipped my bag with dummy clips and teethers, too. I will also be wearing necklaces from a cool brand called Nibbling that will soon be available at my store.

How have you decorated your nursery this time around?

I've fiilled Matylda Mia’s nursery with all my favourite pieces from Blue Almonds. The room is decorated in baby pink and cream, with key accessories such as my favourite chair that I use to feed her and rock her to sleep.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 33

INTERVIEW

The Duchess of Cambridge is

Beautiful nursery furniture from Blue Almonds

a fan

The boutique on Walton Street Il Gufo cotton trousers

You’re originally from Poland.

How different is it for your kids to grow up in London?

London is extremely international, and I’m pleased that my children are being raised with others from all around the world, as they learn to appreciate different cultures.

I grew up during a time of communism in Poland, so we did not have such an abundance of items. The task at hand now is to strike the right balance, teaching them to practise gratitude rather than allowing them to get spoiled.

Filip, as he is such an active boy.

We love theatre and cinema, and going for our favourite meals.

Which baby brands are you loving right now?

The Madeleine Thompson for Blue Almonds collection of cashmere is definitely a favourite, as well as the new Roly Pony label that my dear friends launched last year. We have just introduced Kenzo to our shop, and I feel it gives us an edge. And I have always loved boys jackets and skinny trousers from Il Gufo.

And your must-have product?

Anything from Aden + Anais. Not only are the products super cute, they also tick every box for what a mother needs day-to-day.

What trends are you expecting to see in the baby market?

I’ve noticed a move towards everything ‘mini me’ – think matching mothers to daughters and fathers to sons. Customers are also looking for more unusual and personalised items, such as a piece of art based on their child’s own drawing.

What’s your favourite thing to do in the capital with the kids?

London has so many beautiful outdoor spaces, so we love long walks and games in the parks, as well as all the charity runs we do together. This is all great for

Blue Almonds now has a range of Kenzo pieces in store 34 | MAR/APR 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Izabela with her son Filip and daughter Matylda Mia

£75, childrensalon.com The Duchess of Cambridge has been spotted shopping at your store. How important is the royal seal of approval to you?

I was delighted when the Duchess of Cambridge visited Blue Almonds.

She is a great role model, balancing her work commitments with her family life – and all very gracefully.

How do you strike that balance?

I’m very lucky to have a great team. From a very supportive mother and husband, to the team at Blue Almonds who have been with me for many years now. I trust them all implicitly.

What does the future have in store for Blue Almonds?

We’re finalising our new-look website, to be launched by summer, and will continue to add to our calendar of activity in store. We’re also working on an even bigger project, which I’m looking forward to announcing soon. Watch this space! bluealmonds.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, DOMINIC LIPINSKI/PA WIRE, GAVIN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

I love personal touches, such as named cushions and wall prints.

BOOKS FOR

EASTER Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P SE ASONAL R E ADS FOR BON NY BABIE S

DEAR BUNNY

By Katie Cotton and Blanca Gomez A heartwarming tale of the friendship between a little girl and her beloved bunny.

Beautiful pictures convey a simple message about learning to be grateful for our loved ones. £6.99, Francis Lincoln

BOOKS

Little ones will love pressing the sound button to hear Higgly Hen cluck

PETER RABBIT: P IS FOR PETER This delightful board book takes you gently through the alphabet, and is a beautifully stylish introduction to the world of Peter Rabbit. A must-have for every baby’s bookshelf. £5.99, Puffin Books

IN THE NIGHT GARDEN: HAPPY EASTER! It’s Easter in the Night Garden!

But Iggle Piggle has lost his egg.

Join the characters in this sweet story. A perfect bedtime read. £4.99, Ladybird

HUSH-A-BYE BUNNY

By Holly Surplice

A gorgeous lullaby story with

utterly charming illustrations throughout. Hush-a-Bunny is a brilliantly comforting read for all children who struggle with separation anxiety. £6.99, Nosy Crow

LITTLE SNAPPERS CHEEP CHEEP POP-UP FUN Large bright flaps, perfect for small hands, lift to reveal pop-up farmyard friends. Little readers will squeal with delight as they try to guess who is behind each door. £6.99, Caterpillar Books

THAT’S NOT MY BUNNY… Simple repetitive text and exciting touch-and-feel features on each page will make this a huge hit with

the very youngest of readers. £5.99, Usborne

LIFE IS MAGIC

By Meg McLaren A troupe of adorable bunnies take centre-stage as they try to perfect their magic skills. A beautifully illustrated, delightfully entertaining story with lots of humorous details to spot. £11.99, Andersen Press

EGG: AN EGGS-CITING EASTER EGG-SCAPADE! Join Bunny and her friends in this cheerful rhyming story, as she sets off for a springtime Easter egg hunt. Little readers will love the bright artwork and finger-holes. £5.99, Little Tiger Kids

WE’RE GOING ON AN EGG HUNT

By Laura Hughes

Join the Easter bunnies on a lift-the-flap Easter egg adventure, but watch out for all the obstacles along the way; lambs, chicks, bees and ducks, and even a wolfish surprise! £6.99, Bloomsbury

HIGGLY HEN

By Axel Scheffler Follow a bustling mother hen around the farmyard as she searches for her missing chicks. Children will delight in pressing the big sound button on each page to hear Higgly Hen’s loud clucking. £5.99, Nosy Crow

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 37

RUNNING HEAD

MARCH

6 MOTHER’S DAY

Treat mum, or yourself, to a handpicked bouquet from one of London’s flower markets

While all many of us really want is a lie-in or someone else to load the dishwasher, Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to get out and about with baby. Visit an exhibition, peruse the flower markets or enjoy a spot of brunch with your family.

Take some muchneeded time out with a midweek massage

dates for your

DIARY

9 A MIDWEEK MASSAGE

Fluffy robes at the ready!

Spring clean your soul with an Udderly Gorgeous maternity treatment at the Cowshed Spa, Foubert’s Place, Soho.

Choose a full body massage (£75 for 60 minutes) and enjoy a foot soak, soothing massage and face reviver. Utter bliss. cowshedonline.com

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

27 EASTER

It’s time for bunnies, chicks and an endless supply of chocolate. Make the weekend one to remember with egg hunts and Easter-themed crafts, or cosy up with the animals at Hackney City Farm. hackneycityfarm.co.uk

13 PLAN A VISIT

The Portland Hospital welcomes visitors to its Pregnancy Open Day for the first event of the year. The day provides an opportunity for parents-to-be and medical professionals to visit the UK’s largest private maternity unit. theportlandhospital.com

25 TAKE A TRIP PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TO THE ZOO

ZSL London Zoo opens its new, interactive £5.7 million home for endangered Asiatic lions – a must-see for kids at the end of the month. zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo

APRIL

Jersey lined anorak, £34.50, boden.co.uk

2

CHILDREN’S BOOK DAY Get your little one involved in International Children’s Book Day by encouraging them to pick up a read. See page 36 for our top choices for babies. For more about ICBD events, visit ibby.org

Hackney City Farm

15-17

BABY & TODDLER SHOW The must-visit event for new and parents-to-be. Don't forget your free goody bag! babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

7 BE A WINNER

It's your last day to enter our fantastic competitions – it could be your lucky day!

Enter online at babylondon. co.uk/competitions

30 EXPLORE

THE CAPITAL

Try somewhere new this spring. We’ll be heading to Cuckoo Hibou in Fulham, a new café and gift store for families. cuckoohibou.com Cuckoo Hibou

10 BEAT THE

APRIL SHOWERS

Protect her from the elements with a pair of floral wellies and matching anorak from Boden’s spring collection. boden.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 39

RUNNING HEAD

Northcote Road is located in the popular ‘Twixt the Commons’ area

FOCUS ON

NORTHCOTE ROAD

WHERE TO SHOP

MERINO KIDS

Let little ones enjoy the cosiest night’s sleep with Merino Kids’ silky soft sleepwear – head to the showroom for adorable swaddle wraps, sleep bags and more.

151 Northcote Road

Discover the best spots to eat, shop, learn and play in the heart of Battersea OUT AND ABOUT

MONKEY MUSIC For mini musicians aged three months onwards, classes at Happy Faces are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays – a great way to meet new mums and dads. monkeymusic.co.uk

– now, that’s a nice thought. bertieandboo.com

Monkey Music at Happy Faces

BUGGY FIT Mums and their little ones can be found flocking to Clapham Common and Wandsworth Common for weekly Buggy Fit classes. buggyfit.co.uk

PLAN A GETAWAY

PRE & POSTNATAL YOGA Head to Battersea Yoga for its fantastic classes for both before and after birth. batterseayoga.com

STORMONT HEALTH CLINIC Discover a free weekly session for new mothers who want to breastfeed. This is a great, relaxed environment to ask any questions you may have about parenthood. Sessions usually take place every Monday, 10-11.30am. wandsworth.gov.uk/fis

GRAB A BITE Grab one of these famous sausage rolls from the bread stall near 60 Northcote Road

BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE A small jump from Northcote Road, you'll find a café, indoor play centre and lots of family activities to enjoy. bac.org.uk

BERTIE AND BOO Parents can enjoy a spot of lunch, while little ones play

PEPPERMINT

A family-owned company for more than 20 years, Peppermint Battersea has advisors on hand to help you find the best baby product for you, whether you’re shopping for high chairs, pram systems or car seats.

56 Northcote Road

TURQUOISE HOLIDAYS Award-winning Turquoise Holidays will make planning your family trip a breeze. turquoiseholidays.co.uk

PARENTAL SUPPORT

TROTTERS

From shoes to scooters, you'll find plenty of shopping inspiration at Trotters. Since opening its doors 10 years ago, its become a real Clapham hot-spot for mums and tots.

86 Northcote Road

NURSERIES: ABACUS ARK CLAPHAM JUNCTION, 020 7624 5718, ABACUSARK.COM; THE MARMALADE CAT, 020 8265 5224, MARMALADESCHOOLS.CO.UK; NORTHCOTE HOUSE, 020 7924 3696, THEHOUSENURSERIES.CO.UK 40 | MAR/APR 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: MAP DATA ©2016 GOOGLE

BABY WEDNESDAYS Swing by the Pottery Café and enjoy a free tea or coffee when your print your baby’s footprints on the cafés beautiful pottery. Super family-friendly, you’ll find plenty of space for buggies, too. Booking essential. pottery-cafe.com

WE ARE FAMILY Have fun with your nearest and dearest, yet still have some grown-up time for yourselves.

We offer our guests an unstuffy mix of elegant yet comfortable interiors, fantastic seasonal food, pampering spa treatments, extensive gardens and even a complimentary crèche. Bliss!

0844 482 2152 LUXURYFAMILYHOTELS.CO.UK

Search for us socially

The Ickworth Suffolk | Fowey Hall Cornwall | Moonfleet Manor Dorset Polurrian Bay Cornwall Woolley Grange Wiltshire | The Elms Worcestershire | New Park Manor Hampshire

THIS PAGE Alexander and Anais both wear knitted bunny bodysuit, £58, Stella McCartney Kids. Cloud wall stickers, £18, Little Chip at Bobby Rabbit.

RIGHT PAGE Chase wears cotton dungarees, £32.99, Château de Sable.

Ruffle-neck blouse, £44.50, Hucklebones. Ribbed cotton socks, £17, Caramel Baby & Child. Rug, from £93, Gigi Brooks.

fashion bunnies PHOTOGR APHER : HELEN MARSDE N ST YLIST: KE LLIE DAGGET T HAIR AND MAKE- UP: R ACHE L JONES

THIS PAGE Ophelia wears cotton bunny print dress, £28, Billieblush at House of Fraser. Merino wool cardigan, £48, Hucklebones.

Check print trousers, £25, Carrément Beau at House of Fraser.

Split suede baby sandals, £67, Bonpoint. Rabbit soft toy, £27, Bonpoint. Ultra bottles, £8.99 each, Tommee Tippee.

RIGHT PAGE Lily wears cashmere bunny print cardigan, from £135, Brora.

Cashmere bonnet, £28, Olivier Baby & Kids.

THIS PAGE Iris wears cotton poplin dress, £65, No Added Sugar.

RIGHT PAGE Alexander wears cashmere cardigan, from £82, Brora.

Cotton shorts, £33, Patachou. Cotton shirt (just seen), £59, and ribbed cotton socks, £17, both Caramel Baby & Child.

Rabbit play chairs (set of two), £212, Oeuf NYC at Bobby Rabbit. Ultra bottle, £8.99, Tommee Tippee.

THIS PAGE Lily wears cotton bodysuit, from £32.50 (pack of five), Boden.

Fine gauge cardigan, £14, Marks & Spencer. Printed cotton trousers, £35, No Added Sugar. Floral print headband, £27, Bonpoint. Ultra bottle, £8.99, Tommee Tippee.

RIGHT PAGE Anais wears printed jersey dungarees, from £19.50, Boden.

Jersey cotton babygrow, £28, Elfie. Printed shoes, £8, Next.

Mask, stylist’s own.

THIS PAGE Jake wears gingham shirt, £10, Next. Cotton appliqué t-shirt (just seen), from £14.50, Boden. Oxford trousers with braces, £15.99, Zara Kids.

RIGHT PAGE Iris wears Peter Rabbit cotton bodysuit, £8, Mothercare.

Lurex knitted cardigan, £64, Chloé at Childrensalon. Cotton romper suit, £55, and ribbed cotton socks, £17, both Caramel Baby & Child. Rug, from £93, Gigi Brooks.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: HAIR AND MAKE-UP ARTIST’S AGENCY: TERRI MANDUCA. MODELS: ALEXANDER, ANAIS, CHASE, IRIS, JAKE, LILY, OPHELIA. MODEL AGENCIES: GRACE AND GALOR, ALPHABET KIDZ, BONNIE & BETTY, KIDS LONDON. ALL BABIES FEATURED WITH BOTTLES ARE OVER 6 MONTHS OLD.

Cotton cardigan £14, next.co.uk

Cotton bodysuit (pack of seven) £11, marksandspencer.com

Chase wears checked dungaree set, £48, Patachou.

Oeuf NYC knitted hat £37.50, cissywears.com

SHOP THE SHOOT

Gingham prints are making a stylish statement this spring Cotton checked bodysuit £10, marksandspencer.com

Your little one will be full of the joys of spring in these new-season pieces

Leather shoes £19.99, zara.com

Cotton harem trousers £9, vertbaudet.co.uk

Cotton jersey dungarees £14.99, hm.com

Cotton cardigan £17.50, boden.co.uk

Chambray romper suit £12, mamasandpapas.com

Two-piece dungaree set £28, mamasandpapas.com Fleece booties £12.95, gap.co.uk

EmbryoCare® Insurance cover for your unborn child We cover 14 different conditions from your 20 week scan through to your child’s 2nd birthday. To find out more, give our team a call today or visit our website.

www.embryocare.co.uk 0800 6444 355

EmbryoCare® EmbryoCare Future Family Insurance EmbryoCare Limited is an Appointed Representative of Pulse Insurance Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

STYLE

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

Following children’s trade show Bubble London’s latest fair in the capital, we shine the spotlight on its Rising Star Award finalists, set to be making a name for themselves this year

Founders Helen and Fiona quit their jobs in finance to launch Avery Row, which trades in vibrant colours and beautiful prints. Its flagship product is the machinewashable, waxed cotton Go Everywhere Mat, a genius bit of kit that acts as everything from picnic rug to changing station. Stylish, portable and indispensable for mums on the go. avery-row.com

Chic Smart Clothes This Polish fashion brand is all about encouraging creativity in our children. Designed in Europe from organic materials, each garment can be modified, combined and reused to create surprising outfit combinations, raising kids’ awareness and sparking their imaginations. chicsmartclothes.com

Dear Eco The Norwegian-influenced Dear Eco stands out for

Nod It may only sell one thing, but there’s nothing ordinary about whimsical babywear brand Nod. This capsule collection of cotton babygrows features curious creatures in bold palettes that have been lovingly imagined. nodlondon.com

WI N N

AR ST •

Avery Row

Dear Eco is organic, chemical-free babywear at its finest

Avery Row

E R • RI

This groundbreaking social enterprise helps fund the care of orphaned children around the world by donating 100% of its profits to charity SOS Children’s Villages. With adorable baby essentials, including organic cotton babygrows and blankets, it offers style and substance for retail therapy of the right kind. frombabieswithlove.org

its simplicity of design and functionality, but most of all, for the supreme quality of its cotton. The certified organic fabric is as pure and delicate as cotton comes, making it comfortable all year round for even the most sensitive babies. deareco.com/en

Dear Eco

S IN G

From Babies With Love

Outside The Lines A British brand formed by two mothers, Outside The Lines is a collection of beautifully considered clothes for girls who know their own style. The first collection, which launches in AW16, is as wearable as it is feminine, with subtle prints, textured knitwear and fun details that set it apart from the pack.

From Babies With Love

Outside The Lines

Chic Smart Clothes

Panda & Ping British brand Panda & Ping specialises in pyjamas, bedlinen and blankets.

Made from eco-sourced cotton jersey, its prints are full of vibrant colours and characters. Comfy and stylish, they’ll be ready for bed without you even having to ask. pandaping.com

Nod

Panda & Ping

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 55

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

INTERVIEW

Bright

SPARKS

Ben AND Una Foden TELL Susannah Warren ABOUT LIFE AS A FAMILY OF FOU R AN D BECOMING PR E SIDENTS OF CHILDR EN ’S M EDICAL R E SE ARCH CHARIT Y SPAR KS

‘

Ben is tr yin

g to get back into the nati squad after onal years of inju ry

a break, Un rdays on a tu a S m e u h T lb a With t solo on her firs is working

f you want something done, ask a busy person’, the saying goes. It’s a theory proven beyond doubt by The Saturdays’ Una Foden and her rugby-playing husband, Ben Foden. Despite having two children and packed work schedules, they have just taken on the role of 2016 jointpresidents of children’s medical research charity Sparks.

“As parents of young kids [Aoife, three, Tadhg, one], it was an obvious choice, a no-brainer really,” says Una. “We know what a brilliant job they do funding research for common and rare diseases in children, so we were keen to pull our forces together.” And with the charity’s strong sporting heritage, “it made real sense for me to join Sparks,” adds Ben. This can-do attitude is reflected in their parenting style, too.

“Some people with young kids lock themselves away,” notes Ben. “But kids need to fit into your lifestyle and not the other way around. We try and do things as a family, and neither of us is scared of carting them off to the supermarket on our own.”

This hands-on approach from Ben, who plays for rugby union club Northampton Saints, is partly due to the fact that he has been beset with injury for the past three seasons.

Although hard to bear, it’s been a bit of a blessing where family is concerned: “Becoming parents is quite a shock to the system, and being injured meant I got to be home and spend lots of time with them.”

Going from one child to two was certainly a challenge, says Una. “When they’re at that baby, baby phase, you feel like a bit of a zombie – and with a toddler.” But the couple are visibly chuffed to have the perfect pigeon pair. “I’ve got my mini me and he’s got his,” says Una. “I’m looking forward to when she

I

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 57

CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER HOSPITAL

The Kensington Wing Private Maternity Unit The birth of a new baby is a very special moment for any family and the Kensington Wing at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital ensures that you will be in the hands of experienced Consultant Obstetricians and Midwives, all dedicated to ensuring you receive the best possible care.

You'll enjoy the privacy and comfort of our private en-suite bedrooms and can be reassured that you are in a dedicated private maternity wing within one of the safest hospitals in the UK.

To find out more about our services, please call us on:

020 3315 8616 Š Merino Kids 2014

Their family essentials

“Boden does lovely stuff” Dinosaur Knitted Playset from £36.50, boden.co.uk

Girls’ Floral Dungaree Dress £19, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

“The music’s so soothing”

PHOTOGRAPHY: ASH KNOTEK/SPARKS, JOE GIDDENS/PA, AP PHOTO/SANG TAN

Fisher-Price Rainforest Mobile £51.99, boots.com

“I keep coming back to this one – it’s great for flying” Urbo 2 pushchair £499, mamasandpapas.com

NOW THAT I’VE HAD A SECOND CHILD, WE FEEL OUR FAMILY IS COMPLETE starts dance and drama and Ben can take Tadhg to rugby!”

In fact, they wouldn’t change a thing: “I can’t remember life before. We’re getting older now and it feels really natural,” says Una. “I love it, I absolutely love being a mum.”

With her girl band The Saturdays on a break so “we can do different things for a bit”, Una has been focusing on her solo album, which is a return to the singer-songwriting days of her youth. She’s yet to finalise the tracks, but reveals that some of the songs are about motherhood. “My kids inspired me an awful lot actually. The love that I have for them, you can put that into so many love songs – it’s not always about Ben!” As we speak, Una is getting ready to relocate for six weeks to Ireland with the kids to fulfil her role as a coach on the live shows of The Voice of Ireland, an upheaval she seems to be taking in her stride. “I don’t know any different. There are plenty of hard-working parents out there with kids. You just manage, This simple yet powerful Sparks campaign highlights the importance of the charity’s work

don’t you? Being a stay-at-home mum is a fulltime job, too. The days I’m off, it’s hard.”

Even this couple know when to stop, though, and thoughts of adding another little Foden to the brood are on hold. “After having Aoife, I thought I wanted two more,” explains Una. “But now I’ve had a second child, we feel our family is complete.”

As Sparks presidents, they will be helping to raise the charity’s profile and attending special events. “Charity’s about spreading the word,” explains Ben. “As Una and I are in the public spotlight, we can do that. It’s no burden at all.”

And it’s clear when Una starts talking about Sparks’ poignant Not Yet Available campaign that the pair feel passionately about the cause: “People pick up a box – it looks like it’s medicine, but, there’s nothing in the box and it just says: ‘Not Yet Available.’ Can you imagine, as a parent, having a perfectly healthy child only to be told they have a month or so to live – because there’s no cure?”

It’s worth thinking about. sparks.org.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 59

Simply suits some babies better

Made from whole milk with far less processing Forms soft curds in the baby’s stomach, aiding digestion Available at stockists below, and also nationwide from selected health food stores and pharmacies by order if not already in stock. Simply quote ‘Alliance’ to your pharmacist for delivery within 24 hours.

Call 0800 328 5826

Email enquiry@nannycare.co.uk

Visit nannycare.co.uk

IMPORTANT NOTICE *NANNYcare® Follow on milk is only suitable for babies from 6 months, to complement breastfeeding or the start of weaning, as part of a varied and balanced diet. It is not intended as a breast milk substitute and is not suitable for babies under 6 months. It is recommended that NANNYcare Follow on milk is used only on the advice of a doctor, midwife, health visitor, public health nurse, dietitian, pharmacist,or other professional responsible for maternal and child care,based on your baby’s individual needs.NANNYcare Growing up milk is for young children between 1-3 years as part of a healthy balanced diet.

Goat milk formula is not suitable for infants with a cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a suitably qualified healthcare professional.

ADVERTORIAL

Take your toddler on an icy expedition with the easy-to-build Arctic set (RRP £24.99). The dog sled, kayak and igloo are sure to inspire imaginative stories and scenarios. There’s so much to learn about this habitat and the animals and people who live there.

This Jungle set (RRP £39.99) offers so many ways to play and learn for little global adventurers, whether it’s making up their own animal stories, taking pictures with the camera, flying in the plane with its turning propeller or just good old building fun.

AROUND THE WORLD

LEGO, THE LEGO LOGO AND DUPLO ARE TRADEMARKS OF THE LEGO GROUP. ©2016 THE LEGO GROUP.

Let your little ones embark on exotic adventures with LEGO® DUPLO®’s new range, a great starting point for early learning skills.

For more information visit LEGO.com/DUPLO These cute creatures, part of the Baby Animals set (RRP £9.99) from the LEGO® DUPLO® Around the World collection, are perfect for animal lovers to develop early roleplay skills. As they care for their new friends, talk about what different baby animals are called and where they live in the wild. This set offers great potential for learning through play with a tiger cub, giraffe calf, polar bear cub and a turtle hatching.

Little animal lovers will enjoy hours of fun on the plains with the Savanna set (RRP £16.99)! There’s so much to find out about the amazing animals that live there. The buildable tree encourages basic construction skills.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 61

NEWS

Sophie la G irafe is the perfect and shape for baby’s ha size nds

A giraffe called

Sophie

TH E ICONIC TEE TH ER THAT HAS TAKEN TH E BABY WOR LD BY STOR M – WE CH ECK OUT SOPHIE L A GIR AFE’S N EW COLL ABOR ATION WITH JOJO MAMAN BÉBÉ

arely a day goes by when a Sophie la Girafe teether isn’t seen in the clutches of a child’s grip. The iconic animal can be found in babies mouths around the globe, and we have Monsieur Rampeau to thank for the tonnes of tears she has saved.

Born in France in 1961, Sophie hasn’t aged in over 50 years of business. Proud of her French heritage, the giraffe’s first day of production was on 25 May 1961, which falls on St Sophie’s Day, in homage of Madeleine Sophie Barat, founder of the Society of the Sacred Heart – hence the name, Sophie la Girafe.

The 100% natural rubber toy stems from the Malaysian hevea tree. Each morning, before the daytime heat hits, a milky liquid is produced from the cells beneath the bark, known to us as latex. An expert in transforming the sap from the tree, Rampeau used the rotational moulding of rubber as a toy-making concept, before coming up with the idea of designing a toy in the shape of a giraffe. The perfect size and shape for

B

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

baby’s hands, and totally safe, using flexible, renewable materials and non-toxic paint.

Standing at 18cms tall, the exotic creature has fashioned quite the loyal following, with sales reported at over 50 million units. She has become friends with the likes of Sir Elton John, Uma Thurman and Halle Berry, not forgetting a strong royal backing and an abundance of industry awards, too.

Although the toy itself may not have changed in over a century, the Sophie la Girafe brand has come on leaps and bounds to include an organic skincare range and a variety of teething rings. But the latest advance, launching this spring, is really set to turn heads.

Mums’ favourite JoJo Maman Bébé, now with 71 stores across the UK and Ireland, is the latest to be lured into Sophie’s gazing eyes, teaming up to create a new layette range.

JoJo Maman Bébé was one of the first retailers to bring Sophie la Girafe to the UK. Laura Tenison, founder of JoJo Maman Bébé, was initially attracted to the brand more than

20 years ago. “Sophie la Girafe has a fantastic history of offering a really high quality, fun yet practical teether that babies adore and parents thank the heavens for,” she says.

“There has been a real loyalty to the teether throughout the generations and the brand has built up additional products to keep babies happy, and that’s what we are all about.”

A natural movement for both parties, the teams sat down and had a mutual discussion about how they could do something exciting together to bring a new range to their shared customers. “There is a joint heritage and belief in beautiful design, quality manufacturing and giving our customers something they can enjoy and use,” explains Laura. “We are the experts in beautiful babywear, so it made sense to combine our skills.”

RUNNING HEAD

Don’t forget, you’ll receive a £20 JoJo Maman Bébé voucher when you subscribe to Baby London for just £14.99. See page 68 for details.

Sticking to what they know best, the small newborn collection comprises a sleep sack, three sleepsuits and a reversible bib in beautifully neutral colours. Both brands wanted to create a range that gives parents the chance to treat themselves, or find the perfect gift. A seriously powerful partnership, both are hopeful about the launch. “We expect the layette range to be well received,” says Laura.

“With adorable prints and embroideries in soft natural colours, we’re hoping customers will love it,” she adds.

All super-soft to touch, babies will love

snuggling up in the new collection; the only difficult choice is which pieces to choose.

“For me, the striped appliqué sleepsuit is my favourite,” explains Laura. “It is the best of JoJo – Breton stripes and sweet appliqué, and all the extra care that makes our clothes special.”

A real sweet treat, indeed.

The Sophie la Girafe loves JoJo Maman Bébé range will be available from 12 February in JoJo stores and online.

Available in 0-12 months, prices range from £6-£21. jojomamanbebe.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 63

WIN

Your chance to win!

To enter, visit

babylondon.co.uk/competitions 64 | MAR/APR 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 7 APRIL 2016. FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS, VISIT CHELSEAMAGAZINES.COM/THE-CHELSEA-MAGAZINE-COMPANY-TERMS-AND-CONDITIONS/

To celebrate the launch of the Sophie la Girafe loves JoJo Maman Bébé collaboration, we’re giving away the whole collection to one lucky winner

There for the most preci us in life

PARTY TIME GET CRACKING WITH CAROLE’S TOP EASTER TIPS

From a selection at partypieces.co.uk

• Craft activities are a lovely way to keep the little ones entertained. Why not set up a themed Easter egg or balloon decorating competition?

• Save yourself some time with a ready-made egg hunt kit, which include charming signs to place around the garden.

• Hessian gift bags are perfect for Easter party favours. Simply fill with shredded tissue and an assortment of chocolate eggs for your guests.

• Fill paper baskets with treats and hang from trees to add height to your egg hunt.

• Easter goodies don’t always have to be made from chocolate. Why not have a go at making your own with themed baking sets?

Solid Mini Milk Eggs Drum £41, lindt.co.uk

Egg on Toast Lick Chocolate Lolly £1.95, hotelchocolat.com

Little ones will hop to it with this fun egg-hunt kit

Easter Egg Hunt Kit £10.99, partypieces.co.uk

Easter Paper Party Treat Baskets (pack of four) £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

From a selection at partypieces.co.uk

Look the part to find those egg-cellent prizes!

EASTER with

d ting editor an Our contribu Middleton le ro Ca t lis party specia

Carole Middleton To celebrate the new season, put on the best Easter egg hunt for your little bunnies

Easter Balloon Kit £10.99, partypieces.co.uk

Easter Baking Set £12, hedgehogshop.co.uk

Hessian Drawstring Gift Bags (pack of six) £7.99, partypieces.co.uk Large Easter Paper Party Plates (pack of eight) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk Rabbit Baking Mould £14, hedgehogshop.co.uk

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

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

baby london Are you sleeping? Probably not. We look into ‘mumsomnia’ • We catch up with interior designer and mum-of-two Jo Berryman • Going green: how to go eco on your baby’s wardrobe and beyond • What to eat? Sophie Wright on top nutrition • We battle with breastfeeding with the best advice from Clare Byam-Cook • and much, much more!

On sale 8 April

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

TWO FREE GIFTS

RUNNING HEAD

GO ORGANIC

TH ER E AR E MYRIAD OP TION S AVAIL ABLE WH EN IT COM E S TO BUYING E THICAL CLOTHING FOR YOU R LIT TLE ON E S. H ER E AR E SOM E OF OU R FAVOU RITE S From Babies With Love has a wide range of gorgeous, sustainable cotton pieces

FROM BABIES WITH LOVE

From lightweight printed muslins to soft ruffled dresses, Babies With Love produces beautiful clothing for little ones using 100% organic cotton. Working in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages, every last drop of its proceeds goes towards supporting abandoned babies, rehoming them in safe communities where they are looked after by their SOS mother. Utterly charming, it’s no surprise the company recently won the Rising Star Award at children’s trade show Bubble London. frombabieswithlove.org

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 69

SHOPPING

NICE AND NATURAL

Our favourite eco skincare for children

BABYGANICS

Earth-safe and people-safe is the motto at Babyganics, which has a fantastic range of products for baby’s skin and beyond.

From £6, huggle.co.uk

MERINO KIDS

LALA & BEA

Originally from New Zealand, Merino Kids has been bringing a little Kiwi cool to the UK for an entire decade. Specialising in sleepwear, the brand is known for its swaddles and sleep bags, all made from the finest merino wool.

With 100% natural fibres, studies have shown that babies sleep for longer and cry less when wrapped up in merino. merinokids.co.uk

Designed to be used by all the family, the products are organic and free from parabens. Most of the ingredients are grown and sourced in the UK, too.

From £10, lalaandbea.com

These soapbark and yucca bubbles are kind to skin

CALIFORNIA BABY

Natural and organic products for your tot.

Your baby will love this range, even if they suffer from eczema or allergies.

From £13, huggle.co.uk

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

TOBY TIGER

Founded 16 years ago by author and designer Zoë Mellor, Toby Tiger creates bold, stylish clothing for babies and children. Boasting colourful prints and motifs, everything is made using pure organic cotton. Materials are coloured using azo-free dyes – ensuring they’re kind to both baby’s skin and the planet. tobytiger.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

TAO & FRIENDS

Swedish mothers Mimmi and Selina set up Tao & Friends in 2014 with a clear directive; to create quality, organic clothing while helping children in need.

With each item sold, 1¤ is donated to a charity. Inspired by Mimmi and Selina’s own children, the range features animal designs for newborns all the way up to six year olds. taoandfriends.com

FRUGI

Inspire your little ones with cool and quirky animal prints

Frugi, makers of bright and colourful clothing for children and babies, is the UK’s leading brand for ethical apparel. Founded in 2004, the company is dedicated to creating durable clothing made with no nasty chemicals, therefore keeping allergies at bay. What’s more, the label donates one per cent of all profits to environmental organisations, proving you can be green and successful in business. welovefrugi.com

OMIBIA

The timeless designs from Omibia take inspiration from the bucolic landscapes of Mediterranean vistas, using only the finest materials, including baby alpaca, lace and merino wool. Garments are piece-dyed, and many are made completely by hand, with care taken to create clothing that is well-designed and comfortable for the child.

Omibia.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 71

INTERVIEW

MOTHER to MOTHER

FOU N DER OF MOTH ER S M EE TING Jenny Scot t TELL S Jessica Jonzen HOW H ER CR E ATIVE AGEN C Y H ELPED H ER FIGHT LON ELIN E SS AN D DEPR E SSION t is fitting that Jenny Scott is having her nails done during our interview.

Having just dropped her five-yearold son, Sonny, off at school, she is taking the opportunity to multi-task while her 15-month-old daughter, Jasmine, takes a nap.

As the founder of Mothers Meeting, Jenny is evangelical about the importance of women taking time for themselves once they have children, and practices what she preaches.

“Our ethos is about women, not babies,” she says, while choosing the colour of her polish.

“We’re all about the mental state of mums and making them feel better about the fact they’re doing the hardest job in the world,” she says.

For the uninitiated, Mothers Meeting works with brands such as Nike, Liberty and J.Crew to produce innovative events for a network of women – who just happen to be mothers. But they aren’t simply marketing tools for brands; they’re tailored for creative, style-conscious women who want to find life beyond their local baby group. Events include a monthly gathering at Shoreditch House, which sees more than 100 women attending to hear guest speakers talk about life as a working mum.

Each month it covers a different topic, from sex to make-up tutorials. Then, there is the monthly business club, as well as ad hoc brand events. Last year, Jenny also published How To Be A Hip Mama Without Losing Your Cool, and plans are afoot for the next instalment.

Not bad considering that Jenny, 33, originally set up Mothers Meeting to make friends after Sonny’s birth in 2010. Originally from Wales, she moved to London at 18 to study graphic design at Camberwell College of Arts. For 10

I

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

years she worked in advertising. “I was always going to parties and that kind of thing,” she recalls. “When I found out I was pregnant, I was like, ‘Having a baby is not going to change me,’ and, of course, I was in for a massive shock.” But what surprised her most was the loneliness. “I went to baby groups and thought, ‘This just isn’t for me’. I knew I had this opportunity to go out – there was so much to do and see – but I found it really hard to even get dressed in the mornings.”

Jenny later decided to design a poster saying she was going to an exhibition at Somerset House – all comers welcome. “I thought, ‘If I put it on the internet then I can’t just cancel,’ you know?” One person turned up. After that,

brands that had previously been clients. “Nike approached me, wanting to do something, so I started a Nike workout for mums, then other brands started getting in touch.”

Jenny is open about the fact that Mothers Meeting helped her overcome the identity crisis that many women experience when they become a parent. “You keep one foot in your old life because you’re scared of becoming this person you don’t know,” she says.

The death of her father when Sonny was a year old triggered a period of depression.

“Every morning, I’d wake up and feel so sad, and one day I just realised I wasn’t happy.”

Jenny went to her doctor and was prescribed antidepressants. She also discovered running

THERE WAS SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO BUT I FOUND IT HARD TO EVEN GET DRESSED Jenny would book a table at a restaurant she wanted to visit and call it a lunch event. “I was just inviting people to things that I wanted to go to but didn’t have anyone to go with, and it grew from there,” she says.

After a year of organising free events and getting coverage in the likes of The Sunday Times Style magazine, Jenny returned to work in design. “I didn’t feel fulfilled by it because I’m a people person. I like bringing people together, but I didn’t know what that was as a business model.” She decided to deploy her background in advertising to work with

and its incredible ability to lift her mood.

She weaned herself off the tablets after two years and immediately fell pregnant with her daughter, Jasmine. “Second time around, Mothers Meeting has basically saved me, so when it stops making me feel good about myself and about being a mum, I’ll stop doing it altogether,” she says. “What I do is heartfelt, and that’s why women keep coming back.” mothers-meeting.com How To Be A Hip Mama Without Losing Your Cool (£12.99, Hardie Grant Books)

Jenny’s goal is to make other mums feel better about themselves and being a parent

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Mother’s Day 6th March 2016

Hand-engraved in London with the names of her children Personalised Family Necklace From ÂŁ89

mercimamanboutique.com

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

SHOPPING

MOTHER’S DAY Show her how much she’s loved with these beautifully stylish gift ideas

Organic cotton sweater £45, shop.selfishmother.com

Baby Björn baby carrier £124.99, mothercare.com

‘Mother’s Day’ watch £51, shop.swatch.com

Udderly Gorgeous Maternity Set £40, cowshedonline.com

Salvatore Ferragamo silk scarf £245, harrods.com

Stella McCartney maternity bra and briefs £100, nineinthemirror.com

18-carat white gold and pink sapphire ring price on request, gismondi1754.com

Personalised leather changing bag £251, jemandbea.com

Tailored cape £465, amandawakeley.com

Charcoal portrait of your child price on request, louisepragnell.com

Lemongrass scented candle £50, joloves.com

Personalised 18-carat gold-plated necklace £89, mercimamanboutique.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 75

MOTHER EARTH The softest neutral shades for mum and baby to see you through those cooler spring days PHOTOGR APHER : JONATHAN MALPASS ST YLIST: BECKY JOHN HAIR AND MAKE-UP: ROSE ANGUS

Chelsea wears cotton lace tunic, £49, Soeur at Smallable.

Harlen wears cotton bodysuit, £10.50 (pack of two), Petit Bateau.

Hunter wears cotton playsuit (just seen), £91, Bonpoint.

Lily wears embroidered cotton dress with matching bloomers, £112, Bonpoint.

Sheepskin rug, £75, The White Company.

Lily wears cotton knit hat, ÂŁ6.95, and dress, ÂŁ29.95, both Gap.

Harlen wears cotton bodysuit (just seen), ÂŁ10.50 (pack of two), Petit Bateau. Organic cotton and merino wool booties, ÂŁ24.99, Aravore.

Chelsea wears silk chiffon top, £60, A Day In A Life.

Harlen wears cotton smocked playsuit, £63, Annafie at Childrensalon.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: CHELSEA, HARLEN, HUNTER, LILY MODEL AGENCY: GRACE & GALOR

Cotton cardigan £9, marksandspencer.com

Lace dress and matching knickers £44, mamasandpapas.com

Harlen wears organic cotton knickers, £5 (pack of two), John Lewis. Chelsea wears linen top, £45, A Day In A Life.

Baby tutu £35, angels-face.co.uk

SHOP THE SHOOT

Get the look with super-soft textures in angelic shades of white and cream

Cotton knit hat £6.99, zara.com

Cotton and lace top £7.50, next.com

A pair of versatile white jeans is a spring wardrobe staple ‒ just keep little hands away from the ketchup!

White-wash skinny jeans £10, riverisland.com

Cotton knit hat (with matching mitts not pictured) £8, mothercare.com

Sheepskin rug £30, ikea.com Leather booties £16, johnlewis.com

Cable-knit pramsuit £28, mothercare.com

FOR PREGNANCY, RECOVERY & BEYOND

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IT’S TIME TO DISCOVER HONEY AND ARCHIE

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www.honeyandarchie.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 83

Twister Let's twist again‌ and turn pram, car seat or seat unit by 360° using only one hand.

REVIEWS

TOTGEAR

N EW MUM Caroline Scot t ROAD -TE STS TH E COM PAC T AN D ST YLISH MUTSY IGO PU R E MUTSY IGO PURE EDITION When I was pregnant, I was adamant I wouldn’t become one of those bag lady type of mums, with a million things hanging off a gargantuan pram, so the neat and petite iGo suits me perfectly. It’s nippy, but still packs a punch in terms of driveability. And, aesthetically speaking, it’s leagues above many of the more common prams on the market.

THE LOWDOWN The latest model of this pram from Dutch brand Mutsy pays even greater attention to ergonomics and flexibility, and is aimed at city dwellers. You can fit a carrycot, stroller seat with canopy and bumper bar, and various car seats to the frame, and choose between extra shock-absorbing air tyres or very light foam tyres. It’s when the stroller seat is attached that the iGo really shows how adaptable it can be: the backrest and leg support can be set to various positions and the seat can be placed in either a front or rear-facing position. Plus, you can collapse the frame with the seat intact.

GOOD LOOKING? Unbelievably so! I have a little boy, Rupert, so the Pure Bright Sky colour is particularly appropriate. The light denim hue of the carrycot and cognac-brown leather of the push bar strike a perfect balance of cool and high-end. It’s colourful (without being twee), stylish and doesn’t look too functional.

We think Rupert approves, too

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVEABILITY I live in a house with a raised front entrance, so having a pram that I could collapse easily was a must. After a few initial wobbles, I got the hang of assembling it (and taking it apart), before dashing back up the steps to scoop up baby. I’m not particularly strong, but the 8.7kg chassis is easy enough to haul up and down.

The carrycot is super light, at just 3.4kg. On a walk with my about-to-pop NCT friends, they looked on in amazement as I manoeuvred the pram along the river path and bumpy cobbled pavements; the wheels can swivel 360 degrees.

It’s a pleasure to push.

The light carrycot is really easy to lift

COMFORT The recently enhanced front wheel suspension supposedly ensures a more comfortable ride for baby, and the various ways in which you can adjust the seat means they don’t have to spend too long in one position. Rupert sleeps soundly every time we take him out in the iGo.

THE VERDICT

The latest model is available in two colour combinations and three frame finishes

I love this pram. It’s pretty to look at, but also enormously practical and has slipped seamlessly into my life. From grandma successfully weaving between the crowds on the King’s Road, to mummy squeezing into cafes and restaurants without causing a scene, it’s proved ideal for everyday London life. bl From £699 | mutsy.com

The sturdy yet lightweight frame makes the iGo a pleasure to manoeuvre around the city

REVIEWS

STROLL IN STYLE

Kate Finney FIN DS A SOLUTION TO DOU BLE TROU BLE WITH TH E MOU NTAIN BUGGY FR EERIDER STROLLER BOAR D

O

nce your toddler learns to scoot, life starts to pick up speed, and Mountain Buggy’s Freerider taps into this trend.

The standalone scooter connects to all Mountain Buggy and Phil & Teds buggies as well as some other brands, including the Bugaboo Cameleon and the Baby Jogger City Mini, using a connector.

The bright colours and clever design will help to encourage even the most reluctant of toddlers to hitch a ride.

The detachable handle means you can fold up the board when not in use, and also means you can still use it when the buggy is reclined for a sleeping baby.

Alternatively, keep the handle on so your child can hang on to something other than the pushchair for stability. Because of its length, you need to position it slightly to the left or right so it doesn’t get in the way when strolling along, or you’ll need to walk to the side of the buggy.

In my opinion, the Freerider works well as a traditional buggy board for toddlers, and once they are a bit bigger (age three onwards) they are able to use it as a separate scooter. My two year old was so used to using the handle of her scooter to steer that she found it hard to adjust to using her weight to steer the Freerider, although I think she’ll get the hang of it.

She certainly loves the concept of riding a scooter along behind the buggy.

I tested the Freerider with the new Mountain Buggy Swift, which has stolen my heart. I love this three-wheeler! It is unbelievably compact, with air tyres, great steering and a one-handed fold. Plus, its bright yellow hood makes me happy, even on the rainiest of days. £79 (connectors £19) | mountainbuggy.com

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

The best of the rest Bugaboo Comfort Wheeled Board Featuring a clever detachable seat, Bugaboo’s board is perfect for tired little legs. It has built-in suspension and can be fitted to the left or right for extra walking space. £90, bugaboo.com

Stokke Xplory Sibling Board Compatible with the iconic Xplory buggy, this slightly longer buggy board is perfect for older children with growing feet. £87, stokke.com

The flexible Freerider converts from buggy board to fun scooter in seconds

Lascal Buggy Board With mini and maxi versions available, this board will fit most pushchairs. Easy to fit and quick to fold up, just add the Buggy Board Saddle for toddlers who like the option of a seat.

From £45, buggyboard.info

Silver Cross Surf Board Made from aluminium and with double-swivel wheels, this fits Silver Cross’s Surf buggy, with no extra fittings required. £75, silvercrossbaby.com

Little ones will love riding along behind baby

UppaBaby PiggyBack A chic, eco-friendly wooden board with a non-skid surface. There are different versions to fit each UppaBaby buggy.

From £79.99, uppababy.co.uk

Give them the best, even when you’re apart.

The flexible and efficient Medela Swing pump, feel happy and confident in your moments apart.

50 years of breastfeeding innovation. www.medela.com/swing

Medela Swing

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”

FAMILY LIFE

MERINO KIDS™

the natural choice

Overcoming

GUILT

LIFE COACH AN D MUM- OF-T WO Olivia Read LOOKS AT TH E U NIVER SAL ISSU E OF MOTH ER GUILT AN D OFFER S STR ATEGIE S TO BE AT IT other guilt. We all experience it. Whether we work at home, in an office or both – we all experience it.

Often undermining the choices we make, it comes in all shapes and forms.

Guilt about working and not being there enough for our children; guilt about not working and not contributing to family finances; guilt about getting tired and cranky; guilt about our choice in formula, nappies, classes, schools; guilt that we’re not being the best mothers we can be. The list goes on for all kinds of reasons – some valid, some silly.

A little guilt in life is a positive thing, it can act as our moral compass. But in motherhood, if not addressed, it will have a negative impact on our happiness and wellbeing, and ultimately on us as parents. In order to loosen its grip, we need to take a few steps back to better understand our choices.

M

I

Step 1

Step 2

Understand the reason for your choices, and accept that sacrifices are unavoidable.

As a parent, every decision we make results in a sacrifice or compromise. What’s important is how we deal with these compromises.

Rather than getting swept up in what you or your children are missing out on, focus on appreciating what you are getting out of the choices you have made.

For example, ask yourself why you choose to work, stay at home, or both – what does it give you, and why is that so important to how you parent? You might go to work as you enjoy the sense of identity it gives you, which is crucial to your happiness. Alternatively, you might stay at home, because you feel being there for your children gives you a sense of purpose. A greater understanding of why you are making these choices means you’ll soon learn to accept the pay-offs.

Accept that there will always be critics, and be confident in your choices.

The parent police and societal pressures will always be there. The parent police are your ‘helpful’ acquaintances who freely offer advice on anything and everything. Feeding, sleeping, discipline, child-free holidays – they have a way of making us doubt ourselves. However, this is more often than not just a way of them justifying their own choices and burying their own doubt and guilt.

Societal pressures are the expectations that are imposed on us, making us constantly feel that we ‘should’ have done something.

We can’t stop the critics but what we can do is change our reaction to them. By remembering back to step one – the reason for our choices – and questioning the agenda of these critics, we can remain confident and let the guilt subside.

RECOGNISE WHY

For 10 years, our 100% natural products have been helping families sleep safely and better in the United Kingdom and around the world.

Our range, including the award-winning Cocooi™ Swaddle and the Go Go Bag™ sleep bag, is made from the world’s finest, fully breathable, Merino wool.

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

DEFY EXPECTATIONS

FAMILY LIFE

MERINO KIDS™ Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all response to parenting

the natural choice

Step 4

TAKE SOME ‘ME’ TIME Step 3

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

NOBODY’S PERFECT

Accept that super-mums don’t exist, and that good is good enough.

We are humans, not robots, and we need to learn to reduce the pressure on ourselves to be the perfect mother. Is there really such a thing? Every child is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all response to parenting. We need to lower our expectations from perfect to good.

Ask yourself what being a good parent means to you? What did you like about your own parents’ parenting style? If your children are old enough, ask them what a great mum means to them.

The very fact you’re self-aware enough to be experiencing guilt proves that you care, which makes you a great mother. Dropping the odd ball teaches your child to be stronger and more resourceful, and you to relax and remember that real life is never perfect.

Allow some space for yourself now and again.

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from those safety instructions on the plane, it’s to put my own oxygen mask on before my children’s.

This logic carries through to life. Happy parents make for happy children.

As a mother, we’re pulled in 100 different directions by work, children, husbands, friends, parents and our wider community – and all this takes its toll. Dedicating some time for yourself every week (or even every day) will revive you and make you a better mother.

This is not something to feel guilty about, it’s something to admire.

If you were to allocate an hour every week (or 30 minutes each day) to yourself, what would you do? What would it give you?

How would it make you a better parent?

While there’s no way of ridding ourselves of guilt entirely, we can and must diminish its power by understanding and feeling confident in our choices.

By reducing the pressure to be super-mum and allowing time for ourselves, we will be able to enjoy motherhood with a renewed energy and positivity, and without the shackles of misplaced guilt.

Safe Sleep and Better Routines for Newborns, Babies and Toddlers. www.merinokids.co.uk Call +44 (0)207 738 0977 or visit us at 151 Northcote Road, Battersea, London SW11 6QB

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 89

Take control of your child’s education Nursery School for children 6 months to 5 years

“Happy, excited and raring to start every morning, is how I would describe Jack every time he is due to go to Abacus Ark Nursery.”

TE QUO ndon” y Lo “Bab for on trati s i g e No R Fee

Attention to detail

• 6 months to 5 years • Open daily 8am – 6pm • Highly qualified friendly staff • Clean, bright, specially designed rooms • Sports, drama and dance classes included • Healthy food and snacks for each child

Clapham Junction • Maida Vale • Wandsworth Town

www.abacusark.com • info@abacusark.com Call 020 7624 5718

HEALTH

health & beauty

NEWS TH E L ATE ST R E SE ARCH AN D DEVELOPM ENTS IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING

ANTENATAL ADVICE

Lulubaby is launching its renowned antenatal courses at a new location from the end of April. Classes at The Portland Hospital are open to anyone, with support on everything from breastfeeding to first aid. Founded by Louisa van den Bergh, this will be Lulubaby’s fifth London location. lulubaby.co.uk

APP HAPPY

SAFER AND SOUND The National Screening Committee has now granted non-invasive prenatal testing to all high-risk pregnant women on the NHS. Pioneered by Premaitha Health, the IONA test screens for genetic diseases such as Down’s Syndrome without the risk of miscarriage. premaitha.com

The new Maternité range includes a range of stretch mark solutions, including prevention oil and recovery balm

SUPER NATURAL TRACK YOUR BUMP A new pregnancy app has launched in the UK after its success in China. Bonzun is a symptom checker and health tracker in one, and can even monitor baby’s movements.

Free, bonzun.com

DOCTOR ON CALL GPDQ is the on-demand app that provides a doctor to your door. Arrange a 25-minute appointment at a location of your choice and be seen within two hours.

Every day from 8am-11pm.

From £120, gpdq.co.uk

Right now, your body needs all the nutrients it can get.

Thankfully, Cytoplan’s PregnaPlan vegan supplements, formulated for pregnancy and breastfeeding, will give you the boost you need. Easy! £12.95 (60 tablets), cytoplan.co.uk

MADE FOR MUMS The skincare experts at Mustela have launched Maternité, a new range targeting body changes during pregnancy. With a focus on firming, comforting and relieving tired and tight skin, it’s the soothing saviour we’ve all been waiting for.

From £13.95, escentual.com The safer IONA test requires a blood sample from the mother’s arm, rather than the amniotic fluid

A SURVEY OF 2,000 MOTHERS HAS EXPOSED A LACK OF SUPPORT FOR BREASTFEEDING. 70% OF MUMS FELT THEY HAD NOT BEEN GIVEN A REALISTIC PORTRAYAL OF WHAT TO EXPECT, WHILE A FURTHER 66% WERE LEFT NEEDING MORE INFORMATION. MEDELA.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 91

HEALTH

eing intimate with your partner after pregnancy can raise questions about contraception, but knowing what is available to you can help you decide on your chosen method. We have the answers to some of your most commonly asked questions.

B

I have just had my baby, when will my periods return?

It’s different for each woman, and depends on how you are feeding your baby. If you are exclusively breastfeeding, you may not get a period until you stop. If you are bottlefeeding, your periods are likely to return five to six weeks after the birth. And if you’re mixed feeding, it’s somewhere in between.

Am I fertile right after giving birth?

Our bodies become fertile again as early as 21 days after childbirth. For this reason, unless you are intending to have another child immediately, it is recommended that you discuss your options with your health visitor or GP around a week after having your baby.

What methods can I use while breastfeeding?

Don't assume that because you’re breastfeeding, that in itself is an effective contraceptive, even if you’re not having

CONTRACEPTION after birth U N SU R E OF WHAT YOU R OP TION S AR E? OBSTE TRICIAN GYNAECOLOGIST Dr Shazia Malik AN SWER S YOU R QU E STION S

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Are there any side effects of using contraception shortly after having a baby?

Most women do not have any major side effects, especially if you make an informed choice with your GP. If you are breastfeeding, then you may have no periods, especially while taking the mini-pill.

Can I use emergency contraception while breastfeeding or shortly after giving birth?

Yes. The coil must be inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse, but may not be suitable if you have had a caesarean section.

The emergency pill contains progesterone only, so can also be taken. Levonelle can be taken while breastfeeding, too. Although small amounts of the hormones contained in the pill may pass into your breast milk, it’s not thought to be harmful to your baby.

What kind of contraception should I use if I want to have another baby next year?

Use something that doesn’t affect your cycles too much, such as condoms or a coil. theportlandhospital.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

periods. Ovulation takes place two weeks before a period happens, so you will be unaware of when there is a risk of pregnancy.

Some methods can impact upon breast milk supply. This applies mainly to those that contain oestrogen, such as the combined oral contraceptive pill, the vaginal ring or combined skin patch. Apart from these, you can use most other methods. The most common are either condoms or the mini-pill – the progesterone-only pill. If you choose to have a coil, implant or diaphragm, it is best to wait until your six-week postnatal check.

BABY TALK

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Diary of a

BABY TALK

mum

part 1

INTRODUCING Mar tha Alexander, WH O IS FIN DING IT HAR D TO COM E TO TER MS WITH TH E FAC T SH E' S PR EGNANT

I

should have known when I found myself giving in to an uncontrollable urge to purchase a wedge of stinking blue cheese at 9am before biting into it on the street as casually as if it were an apple. But I blamed a hangover for my unorthodox eating habits.

I should have known when my expensive silk shirt became so tight that I looked like Tom Kitten, but I blamed my husband’s washing machine-related incompetence.

I should have known when I could hardly keep my eyes open during meetings and fantasised about catnapping on the floor.

But I blamed the long hours that come with a contract in TV. “It’ll take months,” they said. “It doesn’t happen just like that!”. Except sometimes it does. And you’re pregnant ahead of schedule by the six months everyone said it would take. There was no time to think of the positives, as soon as pregnant winked at me from a Clearblue, I was terrified of what was going on in there, when and how it will come out, what it meant for my job, my (non-existent) finances and my (already questionable) sanity.

And then there were more immediate dilemmas. Common predicaments, but as with most things in life, not real concerns until they happen to you.

Firstly, what am I going to do about, you know, actual life between now and eight weeks’ time when I have the first scan and can tell everyone? Without wishing to sound unseemly, I’m more Miss Hannigan than Maria Von Trapp in terms of approach to alcohol and infants. I must commit to not going out. If I do, everyone will guess instantly and I can’t lie – and I can’t tell the truth in case something unspeakable happens. So I gear myself up for two months of silence and evasion, beaching myself on the sofa, a slave to awful TV and a pair of society-repelling pyjamas.

Secondly: smells. All of the scents I love – tumble-dried sheets, Chanel No. 19, cheap shampoo, expensive bath oil, bacon – are now repulsive to me. I yearn to lose my sense of smell entirely. When colleagues get ready for their Friday night and a cloud of Elnett hangs over the office, I hide in the stationery cupboard where I can inhale the stale smell of paper.

My final pressing problem is that my neuroses are in overdrive about The Food Situation. There were four weeks of normal eating and drinking, which involved gin, Stilton and oysters, but then I found out about the baby and discovered the list of banned foods. I ring my mother, coming clean about all the culinary contraband that had been in my system.

“Honestly darling, we need to nip this food business in the bud, we really do,” she trills. “It’s just some goat’s cheese and what-have-you, for goodness sake! You know, when I was having you, I ate everything. And when Granny had me, she drank everything. And we are all fine.”

In the background I hear my father bellow something about that being debatable, and remember that mum is not a midwife. She is the opposite of a midwife. This is a woman

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

I MUST COMMIT TO NOT GOING OUT. IF I DO, EVERYONE WILL GUESS who poured herself a glass of champagne and lit up a Silk Cut immediately after labour. She hates Millennials and our mollycoddled ways. I resolve to respect The List.

The next eight weeks plod on uneventfully: I don’t go to parties, I shun shellfish, I wee five times a night and develop a penchant for Mr Freeze lollies. It’s a wild old time. I panic that I can’t visualise the baby, that I won’t know what to do once it comes. I worry that I’ll become someone covered in puréed banana, who speaks only of Sophie la Girafe and mastitis.

And then I find myself lying in a room, as gel is spread over my potbelly. I fear that I won’t see anything on the screen, that I made it all up. Suddenly, there is a kidney bean. It’s moving its arms – waving? The room becomes loud with the sound of a heartbeat and I start to cry with the feeling that somehow I am cocooned inside myself with a baby. My lovely, real baby. bl Next issue, Martha discovers some newfound energy…

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 95

WELLBEING

�

10

LIFE HACKS FOR NEW MAMAS

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Take motherhood in your stride with these savvy expert tips and best buys

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SPRITZ AND SOOTHE

Responding to the daily demands of a newborn comes with its worries, but a few daily sprays of Better You Magnesium Oil will naturally help to ease stress levels. £12.20, betteryou.com

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POWER-UP YOUR DIET

Childbirth takes its toll on your body, so make sure you’re fuelling your diet with foods that nourish you from the inside. “Nuts are good, as they’re rich in essential fats, zinc and B vitamins needed for healing. Mix a few cocoa nibs into a mix of almonds, brazil nuts and pumpkin seeds to stave off chocolate cravings,” says Charlotte Watts, nutritional therapist and author of The De-Stress Effect. £12.99, charlottewattshealth.com

�

SLEEP LIKE A BABY

While your newborn is napping, claim a moment of restorative time with a simple yoga posture. “Practising the Child’s Pose over a bolster offers comfort to new mums. Bring a bolster (or pile of folded blankets) between your thighs, lay your torso over and relax deeply,” says Charlotte.

Travel yoga mat, £65, sweatybetty.com

�

REVIVE TIRED EYES

Is your sleep debt taking its toll on your face? A quick eye massage will help soothe puffy peepers. “Mix two tablespoons of extra virgin coconut oil with two capsules

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

of vitamin E oil, and apply using tiny circular motions around the eyes,” says beauty expert Janey Lee Grace (imperfectlynatural.com).

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NAIL THE BEAUTY BASICS

Time is of the essence, so it’s all about a low-maintenance beauty routine that offers a polished finish. Look out for doubleduty products like Clinique Age Defense BB Cream SPF 30, which protects while smoothing away imperfections in seconds. £25, clinique.co.uk

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GET A JUICE BOOST

Looking for an all-in-one vitality, immunity and detoxifying hit? We’ve found it! Amazing Grass Green Superfood Berry is crammed with the good stuff. £21.65, amazon.co.uk

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Look more radiant in an instant with hydrating coconut oil

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DRY WASH AND GO

No time for a wash and blow dry? No problem. Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with nettle absorbs excess oil so your hair looks and feels clean with minimal effort. £4, klorane.co.uk

�

6

�

SNACK SMART

Neglecting your diet will send energy levels plummeting, so keep treats on hand to fire up your get-up-and-go. Fruit, crudités and oatcakes are all easy to eat with one hand while you cradle baby in the other.

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ADD A WONDER WORKOUT

Pelvic floor exercises are just as important now as they were during your pregnancy. Every time you change a nappy, gently contract your muscles and hold for five to 10 seconds. Or, to keep you up to your work, try personal kegel tracker Elvie. £149, elvie.com

The Elvie connects to your phone via Bluetooth to help you track your pelvic floor exercises

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WORDS: LOUISE PAYNE, SHUTTERSTOCK

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WELLBEING

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TH E FINAL TRIM E STER CAN BE SLOW AN D PAIN FU L, SO PR EPAR E YOU R SELF WITH Louisa van den Bergh OF LU LU BABY ' S GUIDE eek 29 heralds the start of the final stretch until your baby arrives. It can be a time of mixed feelings (as your body deals with the reality of huge changes and you prepare yourself mentally for the arrival of a baby) and contradictions – you may feel exhausted, but struggle to sleep, excited but filled with apprehension.

W

FIGHTING FATIGUE Exhaustion is one of the most common complaints I see at our antenatal classes.

Many mums-to-be are still working, and so are coping with the demands of a full-time job as well as the physical challenges of late pregnancy. It can be harder to sleep as getting comfortable is tricky, and you may find that you have very intense dreams. Try to take a few breaks during the day – even closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths can help.

It can be beneficial to do some light exercise – walking or yoga are fantastic options.

Yoga is especially useful in this final phase of pregnancy, with its focus on breathing and stretching – just the thing for labour!

If your energy is especially low, you may want to have your iron levels tested. Anaemia is common, and your GP can prescribe you supplements. Ensure you are eating lots of green vegetables and include some red meat in your diet to give iron levels a boost.

LET’S TALK ACHES AND PAINS While weight gain is completely normal, it does come with a host of discomforts. In addition, your internal organs are getting squashed to make room for your expanding uterus and baby. This can mean that you may be short of breath at times as your uterus pushes up on your diaphragm, and subsequently your lungs. You may find that

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

WELLBEING

standing tall, eating an iron-rich diet (to help with oxygen absorption) and light exercise can all help with this, but don’t overdo it. If you’re worried, see your GP. Breathlessness can also be a sign of anaemia.

Back pain is also common during this time, and is caused by both weight gain and the hormone relaxin, which your body releases in preparation for labour. If you are suffering, pay particular attention to your posture when both standing and sitting, and try to avoid doing either for long periods of time.

In some studies, acupuncture has also been shown to help. I recommend Justine Hankin (justinehankinacupuncture.co.uk) and Emma Cannon (emmacannon.co.uk) who are both pregnancy experts.

Another result of this organ-squishing, hormone-racing combination is heartburn.

Eating small meals, avoiding spicy foods and caffeine, and staying upright after eating can all help alleviate the discomfort.

Finally, if you find yourself suffering from oedema – swelling or water retention – keep your feet up as much as possible, avoid standing for long periods and drink plenty of water (it sounds counterintuitive, I know, but if you limit your fluid intake, your body will retain even more). However, if you have sudden or severe swelling, see your doctor, as this can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.

NEED THE LOO, AGAIN? If that’s a yes, there is a very good reason for this sensation – your womb is pressing against your bladder. Don’t be tempted to limit your fluid intake to overcome this annoyance, just use it as a good excuse to get up and moving regularly during the day (although not so convenient at night, I agree).

COUNTING THE KICKS There is a lot of discomfort associated with the third trimester and kicking can also fall into that category. Even if that kick in the ribs is a little painful, there’s something magical about your baby moving around so much.

Do be mindful of their movements, however, and if you notice a change in their daily activity, get it checked out.

PRACTICE CONTRACTIONS It can be very normal during the later stages of pregnancy to experience mini contractions, or Braxton Hicks. These are not the real deal but are your body’s way of limbering your

curry, do some yoga, have sex! Well, although there is scant research to back this up, there are several reasons why sex may help. Firstly, reaching orgasm could stimulate your uterus into movement. Secondly, when having sex, you will release a hormone called oxytocin.

This is a hugely important hormone when it comes to birth, as it brings on contractions.

If you are being induced, you will often be given a synthetic form of oxytocin to help move things along. Finally, semen contains a high number of prostaglandins, chemicals which can help to soften the cervix and bring on labour. In fact, while being induced, you will be given some form of prostaglandin

LESS THAN FIVE PER CENT OF BABIES ARRIVE ON THEIR DUE DATE – THERE ARE REASONS WHY SEX MAY HELP uterus up for labour. Your uterus tightens and becomes very hard to touch; if you do something different (like stand up or move around) it may stop. Braxton Hicks contractions can be distinguished from real contractions as they are not usually very uncomfortable, they tend to be very infrequent and irregular, and they do not build in intensity or length. If in any doubt, give the labour ward a call or consult your doctor.

THE WAITING GAME Less than five per cent of babies arrive on their due date. If you are overdue and are keen for things to get moving, you will hear all sorts of advice from friends – eat pineapple or

(usually as a pessary inserted in the vagina) to kick things off. You may prefer to try the more natural form at home (bearing in mind you may not feel your most alluring at nine months pregnant), although you would have to have sex approximately eight times to match the strength of the medication your doctor will give you. Hmm, perhaps not then…

If you are overdue, remain calm, keep a close eye on baby’s movements and stay as active as you can. The third trimester certainly has its fair share of discomfort, but the great news is that almost every niggle will vanish as soon as your little one arrives. lulubaby.co.uk

SITTING COMFORTABLY?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

These game-changing buys will get you through the last few weeks

PREGNANCY PILLOW Sleep support for you and baby. £47.99 (cover sold separately), dreamgenii.com

UPSIE BELLY BAND This moulds to your bump and makes moving around easier. £69.95, bellybandit.co.uk

SOLIDEA MATERNITY TIGHTS These wardrobe staples have a host of health benefits, too. £28.85, pebbleuk.com

BRAVADO YOGA NURSING BRA A perfect choice for low-impact exercise pre- and post-baby. £34, johnlewis.com

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HEALTH

Embarrassing

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WAR D OFF U NWANTED PR EGNANC Y AILM ENTS WITH A FOOLPROOF AC TION PL AN , SAYS Louise Pyne hought pregnancy was all about coveting a neat little bump and honing a gorgeous glow? Pregnancy affects women in different ways and while many lucky mums-to-be sail through the entire nine months looking and feeling fantastic, the less fortunate struggle with a long list of unsightly symptoms. Here, we’ve put together an expert plan of attack to help sidestep those unpleasant side effects and restore the feel-good factor.

T

EXCESS GAS Feeling more gassy than ever? This unattractive (yet totally normal) side effect of pregnancy is due to elevated levels of the hormone progesterone, which naturally slows down digestion. Thankfully, a few diet tweaks will help to curb excess flatulence and burping.

“High-fibre foods like wholemeal bread and brown rice, drinking plenty of water and keeping active will help to alleviate the problem. Also try to eat little and often, and avoid fatty and spicy foods,” advises Pradnya Pisal, London Gynaecology’s consultant gynaecologist, london-gynaecology.com.

CONSTIPATION Slow digestion is one of the main culprits of gestational constipation. Your stomach takes longer to empty as it’s being squashed by your growing foetus, so the movement of waste through the bowel tends to be delayed. “Constipation can be helped by increasing your overall fluid intake, drinking a little prune juice and staying relatively active – think walking, swimming and yoga,” explains consultant obstetrician Richard Sheridan of The Birth Team, thebirthteam.com.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 101

HEALTH

INCONTINENCE There’s a good reason health experts harp on about strengthening your pelvic floor during pregnancy. Staying strong down there doesn’t only ease childbirth, working those all-important vaginal muscles can prevent embarrassing bladder leaks. “The pelvic floor muscles (which also surround the opening of the bladder) relax to prepare for the birth of the baby and due to pressure of the enlarged uterus on the bladder,” says Pradnya. To feel your pelvic floor muscles, try to stop the flow of urine next time you’re on the loo. These are the muscles you need to tone. Aim to squeeze them 10-15 times in a row as often as you can.

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High-fibre foods like brown rice will ease excess gas and maintain steady blood sugar levels

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LEAKY BREASTS As your body gears up for the big day, your breasts may start leaking colostrum. OK, it might sound gross, but this nutritionally dense yellowish fluid is the first milk your newborn will receive upon breastfeeding and it’s simply your body’s way of making sure everything is ready for your baby’s arrival. “You can use tissue or absorbent nursing breast pads inside your bra to prevent milk leaking on to your clothes,” advises Pradnya.

VARICOSE VEINS Varicose veins have got to be one of the least attractive, common pregnancy ailments, and whether you’re blessed with long limbs or have a naturally petite frame, the risk remains the same. “This is because pressure on the blood vessels in the lower abdomen causes engorgement of the veins in the leg,” says Richard. “Wearing support tights can help varicose veins and thankfully they tend to improve post-partum.”

THRUSH Let’s face it, thrush is never pleasant, but it’s even more of a nuisance during pregnancy.

Most pregnant women notice an increase in vaginal discharge, but if you experience itchiness and thick, smelly discharge you may have a yeast infection. “Get yourself checked

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

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REDUCE ACNE FLARE-UPS

BY USING A MILD CLEANSER WITH LUKEWARM WATER out at your GP if you think you may be at risk, and wear light cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing to minimise any discomfort,” says Richard.

EXCESS HAIR GROWTH Elevated levels of androgenic hormones can affect hair growth and, on the plus side, many women experience more lustrous tresses as a result of changes in their natural hair growth cycle. On the downside, however, you may also notice thicker body hair. You can safely thread, wax, tweeze or shave these extra hairs away, but avoid using chemical depilation

products, as these may be harmful to the foetus.

HAEMORRHOIDS As your baby grows, so does you risk of haemorrhoids, and this uncomfortable condition is common during the third trimester. “Caused by dilated blood vessels around the rectum and anus, and the pressure of the enlarged uterus, haemorrhoids are not dangerous and usually subside after childbirth,” says Pradnya. “To minimise the risk, avoid standing for prolonged periods and undertake regular exercise daily.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Think a flawless complexion is a pregnancy given? Not always. Many mothers-to-be battle stubborn breakouts thanks to hormones that increase the skin’s production of natural oils.

“You can reduce acne flare-ups by using a mild cleanser with lukewarm water in the morning and at night,” recommends Pradnya. “Also use oil-free skincare products and avoid squeezing or picking spots.”

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Medela UK’s education manager and in-house lactation consultant There are plenty of times when mums might want or need to express their breast milk for their little one. It could be to feed a baby in NICU, allow you to feed your twins, give your partner the chance to feed your baby, or just to give you some much-deserved time off breastfeeding.

It may take your body a little bit of time to get used to the breast pump, so don’t worry if your first expressing session isn’t as fruitful as you would like. Here are some tips to help you get the most from your expressing sessions: • Try expressing from the left while you feed from the right, or vice versa. The skin-toskin contact and act of baby feeding will stimulate more milk to flow.

• If you are expressing away from your baby, have a photo or an item of their worn clothing to hand, or something else that reminds you of them. This will also make it easier for you.

• Try to express at a time when you know your baby will be settled in between feeds – many mums find this to be mid-morning or mid-afternoon.

• Your body is clever and works with you to ensure that baby will always have enough milk. Expressing will not affect your supply, or use up milk for later feeds!

• A single pumping tip – when you pump one breast at a time, switch from one side to the other several times.

• Massage your breasts before and occasionally during pumping to encourage your let-down and milk flow.

• Once you have expressed your milk, you can store it in the fridge for three to five days, or in the freezer for six months. Once removed from the freezer, use within 24 hours. Make sure you use it all in chronological order.

• Wait until you and your baby have established breastfeeding (about two to three weeks) if you want to express for your partner to feed baby. However, if you find that your baby isn’t feeding well or you can’t breastfeed, you can exclusively express to support your milk production from birth. medela.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK

meet

the

HEALTH

THE FOURTH STAGE OF LABOUR Deearna Withey Premature, newborn, toddler and multiples consultant What is the fourth stage of labour?

This is the time period beginning immediately after baby is born, and after the placenta has been delivered. It can last for six weeks.

What happens?

Your body is preparing to return to its prepregnancy condition, hormonally.

Will I notice any changes?

During this period you may experience the odd uterine contraction as your uterus prepares to return to normal. You may also

HOW TO BUILDMelanie RESILIENCE Lawson Founder of Bare Biology Omega 3 Being a mum is the toughest gig on the planet – and the most rewarding, of course.

But we need tons of resilience. You can’t remove any of the stresses, and unless you have an entourage of domestic helpers, you can’t reduce your workload. All you can do is find ways to deal with the daily onslaught.

Start with what you eat. We need three basic building blocks for resilience: energy, strong willpower and good health. Nutrition forms the basis of all of three. Most importantly, avoid blood-sugar highs and lows.

Eat breakfast, ideally a protein-packed meal such as eggs or porridge, within 30 minutes of waking. Eat three regular meals a day, don’t skip food. Being hungry is the number one enemy of resilience. Eat lentils and protein with vegetables for lunch, and similar for dinner. Steer clear of sugar, fizzy drinks (unless it’s the odd champagne or San Pellegrino!) and only eat white carbs as treats.

Secondly, sleep. I know – if you have a newborn, park this goal for now. However, sleep must be prioritised if you want to feel strong and capable. Lack of sleep affects everything – our ability to have willpower, to

occasionally feel emotional, this can also happen when your milk starts to come in (around 96 hours after the placenta has been delivered).

Is there anything I should look out for or be aware of?

I suggest to all my clients that they are aware of why they may feel weepier on some days more than others. This is totally normal and nothing to be worried about.

At any time is there a need to worry?

If at any stage you feel you are finding it hard to cope with your emotions and are aware that you are crying a lot more than you were, or if you feel you have experienced a traumatic birth and you keep going over this (or other things) in your mind, then I would suggest you have a talk with your GP, midwife or health visitor.

07771 660121 deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk

regulate stress hormones, our immune system and even weight gain. Don’t ever have a screen of any kind in your bedroom (iPhones, iPads, TVs) and don’t look at your phone or laptop for at least one hour before bed. This one change can be transformative.

Lastly, perspective. It’s hard to be sad or angry when you’re grateful, but it’s easy to forget how lucky we are. Every night before you go to sleep, or during your morning shower, list all the things you’re grateful for and think of those who would give their right arm to have a life like yours. barebiology.com

WHY IS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY ULTRASOUND SO IMPORTANT? Dr Katharina Schramm MD

Consultant gynaecologist and obstetrician The first ultrasound scan is an exciting day in a lot of people’s lives. It is difficult to forget the first time you hear your baby’s heartbeat. All of a sudden, all the stories other mothers had shared with you become real and personal. It is more than just a positive pregnancy test – it’s the realisation that there is a small life growing and growing. When you see your baby’s nose, you’ll start comparing his or her nose to your relatives’ noses. Then you’ll begin to see baby’s hands and feet, the heart and stomach, the eyes, the face. It is all very exciting.

When will I see more of my baby?

At the anomaly scan at 20 weeks you will see your baby in a lot more detail. If the baby is in a good position we will surprise you with a 3D or 4D image of the baby’s face. Many mothers feel that this is one of the most important bonding experiences they get before their baby is born. Feeling the movements is one aspect, but seeing the face of your baby for the first time in colour is very special.

When should I consult my doctor or midwife about having a scan?

• When you have discovered that you are pregnant, so you can have your first pregnancy scan and consultation.

• To arrange a fetal anomaly scan between 18 and 21 weeks.

• If you feel you need reassurance.

020 8940 5009 richmonodpractice.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 105

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INTERVIEW

Missed a part? Check out babylondon.co.uk to see all of Marina and Chiara’s discussions

Time to Talk…

CAESAREANS part 3 MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

In the final part of our c-section special, the sisters discuss recovering from the procedure

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

U

nfortunately for women who have had a c-section, the recovery is the gritty part. It is major abdominal surgery, and if you hadn’t appreciated this before the operation, you will afterwards.

Whenever we talk to women who have had a c-section after a previous vaginal birth, the thing that surprises (and frustrates) them the most is the recovery.

The nurses will encourage you to get out of bed within the first 12 to 24 hours. This might seem impossible, and even slightly cruel, but being mobile early on has been shown to aid recovery. The first time you get out of bed will be painful – you’ll be hunched over and will need someone to support you, help you have a shower and put your clothes on. You’ll quickly realise how important those tummy muscles are – they hurt whenever you use your core – so pretty much every

time you move. It will initially be difficult to pick your baby up without help and, although the midwives will do their best to assist you, it is a good idea to have someone with you as much as possible to help with little things.

One unexpected side effect is stomach cramp. This is usually trapped wind and will not last long. Sharp shoulder pain is also a common symptom, and is caused by diaphragm irritation during the operation. The good news is that it gets better very quickly.

By day two, most women feel 50% better, and by day three, even better still. By the time you go home around day three, you will still be walking gingerly, and the ride home in the car will be somewhat uncomfortable.

You will be offered painkillers both in the hospital and to take home with you. Please don’t be a hero – if you are in pain, take them! Studies have shown that

being pain-free aids recovery.

Remember, because you are likely to be more active at home than in the hospital, you might need to take more once you get home, so make sure you are discharged with enough. Beware that some painkillers, particularly those containing codeine, are constipating, so make sure you’re also taking a stool softener at the same time.

If you had a similar operation for anything other than childbirth, you would probably be on bed rest for a couple of weeks. With a caesarean, however, you have a baby to look after and will want to do a lot more than you should.

It is really important to take things easy and not to push your body.

It might be worth thinking about extra help, be it from family and friends or a professional, if that is an option.

POST-OP RULES • Start doing your pelvic floor exercises again as soon as your catheter is out.

• No driving for six weeks – for insurance reasons.

• No lifting anything heavier than your baby for six weeks. This includes your baby in a car seat.

It can make long-term complications more likely.

• Start gentle exercise if your doctor is happy after your six-week check, but this does not mean running around the park the day after you are given the green light; take it slow.

• We recommend visiting a women’s health physio to check your healing. She will also advise on exercises to do to regain your strength.

thebumpclass.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 107

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW A STERILISER IS AN ESSENTIAL PIECE OF BABY KIT. Laura Mason PUTS A SELEC TION TO TH E TE ST TO H ELP YOU FIN D YOU R PER FEC T MATCH

Best for

TRAVEL

Best for MICROWAVE

Best for COLD WATER

Best for ELECTRIC

Best for CLEANING

MEDELA

BABYMOOV

These handy pouches are perfect for when you’re away. Incredibly quick and easy to use, they’re large enough to hold a couple of bottles and teats. Simply place the bags in the microwave and the steam guarantees to clean 99.9% of germs and bacteria in three minutes. £12.99, mothercare.com

If your baby seems to go through endless bottles, this is the one for you! It easily fits up to six bottles and bundles of other accompanying accessories, and will clean and dry them evenly. Practical features include an alarm, measuring accessories and an easy-to-clean structure. £56.99, babymoov.co.uk

Quick Clean Microwave Bags

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Turbo Steam Electric Steriliser Zen

VITAL BABY

Nurture Microwave Steam Steriliser This will hold up to four bottles, teats and lids, and sterilises efficiently in the microwave in less than four minutes. The two bottles that come included are a particularly nice surprise, and kudos goes to its lightweight and compact size. £24.99, vitalbaby.co.uk

TOMMEE TIPPEE

MILTON

What hits you about this steriliser is its sleek, glossy black design – one you won’t mind cluttering up your kitchen countertop.

It’s a great all-round electric steriliser – one button cleans up to six bottles, teats and lids in just five minutes. £49.99, mothercare.com

Milton’s cold-water sterilisation products are proven to be just as effective as warmer cleaning methods. Taking 15 minutes, this is used with the Milton tablets.

The large bucket-style container with lockable lid can hold up to six bottles or a range of toys. Better still, no drying is required. £14.99, amazon.co.uk

Closer To Nature Black Electric Steriliser

Cold Water Steriliser

Great cuddles without the backache

PREVENTS

SOOTHES

RECOVERS

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26/01/2016 18:21 babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 109

EXERCISE

KEEP ON

MOVING

STAYING AC TIVE IS TH E KEY TO A H E ALTHY AN D ENJOYABLE PR EGNAN C Y, SAYS Charlie Launder OF LOMA X , LON DON

t’s a time that many women wait their whole lives for, and for some it comes as a complete surprise. Either way, it is important to look after yourself during your pregnancy to ensure that both you and baby have a healthy nine months. A growing bump, while exciting and new, also brings your body a variety of challenges, which can be overcome by keeping strong and active.

It is becoming more and more common to see women in the gym working out through their pregnancy. Not only does exercise help prepare your body for birth, it can also have many psychological benefits that will help you enjoy your pregnancy from start to finish.

I

LET’S GET PHYSICAL It is no secret that your body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy. Some women sail through their nine months, while others suffer with all sorts of unwanted aches and pains. A protein hormone called relaxin is released into the body during pregnancy, and is often the root cause of these aches and pains. Relaxin softens your ligaments – the tough tissue that connects your joints. While we need this to happen to help the body accommodate the physical changes to come, it can sometimes cause problems when your joints are less stable.

Adding resistance training into your workouts will help you to build strength around these joints, helping to keep them where they should be and minimise any discomfort. You can keep active at your own pace, whether that is doing yoga and Pilates, or building up more of a sweat by adding some weights into your training.

The very nature of pregnancy will see you gain weight as your baby grows. The change in your centre of gravity can cause your posture to change, which in turn can result

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in lower back pain. With your weight shifting forwards, and your abdominals stretching and weakening, your back is under a lot of pressure. Strengthening the upper part, the thoracic, will encourage extra muscles to switch on during movements in and out of the gym, giving your lower back a helping hand.

It’s worth remembering that each pregnancy is different, so try not to judge yourself on what others are doing. Listen to your body, find out what works for you, and enjoy exercising throughout your pregnancy.

BEAT THE BLUES Morning sickness, weight gain and sleepless nights are just some of the things that can make pregnancy a pretty lonely and stressful time – it can feel as if you have no control over these physiological changes. By making the decision to exercise through these nine months, you take back some of the control, and can work with your trainer to ease any unwanted symptoms you may be having.

It’s well known that exercise releases endorphins. These hormones are released in response to brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. The receptors that these endorphins bind to are the same ones that painkillers bind to in order to make you feel good. This is no different during pregnancy.

If simply getting out of the house doesn’t lift your mood, these endorphins certainly will.

Leaving the science behind, there is a social aspect to all this that can be a massive help during pregnancy. Signing up with a personal trainer or joining a prenatal fitness class will introduce you to a whole new group of people all going through the same thing as you, who you can cry, laugh and exercise with throughout your pregnancy. lomaxpt.com

EXERCISE

BY MAKING THE DECISION TO EXERCISE, YOU CAN TAKE BACK SOME CONTROL

WHY NOT TRY THESE? 1ST TRIMESTER

• There’s no need to make any drastic changes in terms of exercise. If you feel comfortable doing it, carry on doing it. Just make sure you warm up steadily and don’t overheat.

• Add twisting exercises to your regime to keep the core engaged. Seated medicine ball twists, cable twists and woodchops are all good ways to work the core without traditional crunches.

• Swimming can be a great form of cardio and also help to combat morning sickness.

2ND TRIMESTER

• Work on compound movements such as squats, deadlifts and lunges to get the whole body working together.

• Remember to focus on your posture as your bump starts to grow.

• Pilates is another great way of keeping the core and pelvic floor engaged during this trimester, just watch that you don’t overstretch and injure yourself with the increase of relaxin in the body.

3RD TRIMESTER

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

• Add pulling exercises into your workout to strengthen your upper back and minimise lower back pain. TRX or cable rows are great exercises to isolate this part of the body.

• To combat water retention in the legs and ankles, which can happen towards the end of your pregnancy, do short cardio intervals using a bike or cross trainer.

• Swimming allows you to feel weightless in the water, so is great to give your joints a break while keeping your cardio up. If you are feeling any pain or discomfort in your pelvic area, avoid breaststroke.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 111

2

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g n o n i i t Spr c le l o c

Ways to keep in touch:

Call us on 0871 423 5656 or visit our website at www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk Visit one of our London stores: Balham, Battersea, Blackheath, Chelsea Green, Chiswick, Crouch End, Dulwich, Muswell Hill, Notting Hill, Putney, Stoke Newington, West Hampstead & Wimbledon * Free delivery to UK and Ireland. See website for full details.

COOL CHARACTER Introducing Jumbo & Friends, a new children’s furniture label from London mum Esther Gimenez. The range of modern, character-inspired pieces include Jumbo the cot (with additional bed conversion kits available), and Tui, King of Tidy, a storage box that transforms into a seat – clever! jumboandfriends.com

ROLL UP, ROLL UP!

Helen and Fiona, the interior design duo behind new London brand Avery Row, have launched the Go Everywhere Mat for mums on the move. Perfect for picnics, days at the beach, a spot of baby yoga and even as a high-chair bolster, this indispensible, waxed cotton mat will prove to be your new best friend – just roll up and go. Did we mention that it’s machine washable, too? £65, avery-row.com

interior

NEWS

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

Adorn your little one’s walls with colourful art, like this wooden lion print, £30

Luxury cotton? Check. Stylish designs?

Check. Affordable? Check. There isn’t anything we don’t love about the new range of baby bedding from Snüz. The Designz Collection includes everything from reversible blankets to sheets in a range of prints to ensure little ones snooze in style. We’ll take one in every colour, please. From £14.95, snuz.co.uk

ANIMAL MAGIC

Fill baby’s room with the bright and beautiful finds available at bobbyrabbit.co.uk. From bedding to posters to lighting, there’s a wealth of charming buys to choose from. Purses at the ready…

SAVE THE DATE! 18 MARCH - 3 APRIL SEES THE IDEAL HOME SHOW RETURN TO LONDON OLYMPIA, WHERE YOU’LL FIND EXCLUSIVE LAUNCHES, WORKSHOPS, AND INTERIOR AND GARDEN INSPIRATION GALORE. FOR TICKETS, VISIT IDEALHOMESHOW.CO.UK.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 113

BEAUTY

STYLISH STORAGE

Your little one might need a lot of ‘stuff’, but don’t let that be an excuse for mess. Solve your clutter dilemmas with functional furniture that looks sophisticated, too. Clockwise from top left: go contemporary with this Oeuf NYC hutch and dresser (£1,115, nubie.co.uk); complement all-white décor with this grey accented chest from Blue Almonds (£1,351, bluealmonds.co.uk); this low sixdrawer chest by Nobodinoz means toddlers can help tidy up, too (£603.45, en.smallable.com); and keep toys under control with these pretty printed baskets from Ferm Living (from £24, fermliving.com).

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babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 115

At Organix we only use the very best organic ingredients, with no colourings, avourings or unnecessary additives, so your little ones get great tasting food, without the junk.

From babies at the start of their weaning journey to growing toddlers on the go, our foods provide a range of tastes, shapes and textures to help inspire a lifelong love of good food.

Find out more at www.organix.com

food

NEWS 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 BITES OF DELIGHT Encouraging your toddler to develop a taste for fruit isn’t always easy. Thankfully, Fruit Sticks from Little Fruit Bowl are made from delicious fruit purée, juice and crunchy cereal pieces, so it’ll be easy work tempting little ones to eat up. Available in three flavours. 60p, tesco.com

ANGELIC EATS

The foodies at Heavenly Tasty Organics, known for their range of healthy weaning snacks, have added even more to their repertoire.

Try the tasty Mini Italian Breadsticks – free from additives, preservatives or added salt, of course – and the Crispy Veggie Waffles, both in a range of flavours.

Suitable from 12 months, they’re great for when you and baby are on the go. £2, ocado.com

Nibbling at home? Try these with a healthy dip!

NEW SPRING READS DR PIXIE’S FIRST FOODS Dr Pixie McKenna has released her first book focused on weaning your baby.

Combining her medical background with personal experience as a mother, it includes easy homemade meals little ones will love. £12.99, Igloo Books

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

GET SET, GO-GO

Snacks for the little ones in your life need to be healthy, have a slow release of energy, and taste delicious. Too much to ask? Not according to Little Dish. Its new Go Gos are mini wholegrain oat biscuits crammed with fibre and protein, both vital for healthy muscle and bone growth. The biscuits contain no refined sugar, and flavours include raspberry, vanilla and ginger. 60p, tesco.com

BUSY MUM’S COOKBOOK After releasing her original baby-feeding bible 25 years ago, Annabel Karmel’s new book is packed with over 100 recipes.

From 20-minute meals to recipes with only six ingredients, there are dishes for the whole family. £20, Ebury Press

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 117

Keeping it

REAL

AS R E SE ARCH R EVE AL S THAT CHILDR EN ’S APPE TITE S AR E BEING DAMAGED BY ‘ ENGIN EER ED’ FOODS, WE LOOK AT HOW PAR ENTS CAN BECOM E MOR E L ABEL SAV V Y very child’s relationship with food is different, and as parents we become obsessed with what our offspring are gobbling up. But living in a time-pressured society means that although we may have our little one’s best interests at heart, we may be being misled by the vibrant packaging and empty promises in the supermarket aisles.

Misleading claims on packaging about food being ‘real’ and ‘natural’ means parents are unable to make informed decisions. Timepoor mums want meals to be both convenient and natural – yet the more convenient the food, the less natural it is likely to be.

Now, baby and toddler brand Organix is on a mission to uncover the effects it’s really having on our children. Along with taste psychologist Greg Tucker and Professor Andy Taylor from the University of Nottingham Food Science Department, Organix commissioned Engineering Taste: Is This The Future Of Our Children’s Food?

The study has shown that many children have become so used to ‘engineered’ food that it is impacting their ability to recognise and experience ‘real’ foods. So much so, we’re living in a world where some children believe chickens do not have bones, that apples don’t have cores, and that the only variety of tomato is a cherry one. On top of children’s ability to judge real food, putting in the effort required to eat it is being eroded, too. In a shift in children’s palates, they’re learning to look for fast taste gratification and ‘easy eats’.

“A real apple is very different to a cereal bar with a fruit filling,” explains Greg Tucker. “The apple filling is sweet, melts easily in the mouth, yet the ingredients list shows that some

E

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

With the rise of convenience foods filled with so-called ‘real’ fruit and veg, children are failing to develop a taste for the fresh stuff

KNOW YOUR LABELS: ORGANIX’S TOP TIPS of these bars contain up to 36 ingredients, including flavourings. Consequently, children are disappointed by the genuine article, so they fail to acquire a taste for real apples.”

The research also uncovered a new zone of food – the zone of artifice. It comprises foods labelled as being ‘natural’, with no artificial flavours, yet which actually have no natural role in the food, and are there to enhance the eating experience, be it the flavour, texture or colour. As a result, the boundaries between real and artificial are becoming blurred.

The report suggests mums are keen to make good food choices, so they seek out ‘real’ and ‘natural’ claims on the packaging during their supermarket shop. As they learnt more about

• Don’t be lured by front-of-pack flashes such as ‘natural’, which can actually mean very little. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

• If you have the time, try to take a closer look at the ingredients and the nutritional information.

• Go for fewer ingredients. The more ingredients, the more additives there are likely to be.

• Look for ingredients that you recognise, that would appear in a recipe, or that you might find at home.

• Avoid ingredients that are artificial, such as sweeteners, colourings, starches or thickeners, preservatives, flavour enhancers and flavourings.

NUTRITION

YOU SAY Organix survey of 1,000 mums

81%

think their child prefers tomato ketchup to fresh tomatoes

63%

believe food is healthier if it says ‘real’ or ‘natural’ on the packaging

90%

think that the food industry enhances or engineers the flavours of foods to appeal to children

3�% think their child prefers strawberry yogurt to fresh strawberries

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

72%

the product and its ingredients (often a very long list), many were surprised to discover it was not as natural as manufacturers claimed.

“We’re seeing a new take on artificial,” says Greg. “The addition of a natural ingredient to food, but one not expected or understood, and designed to materially enhance the delivery is an artifice – carrot juice in a strawberry yoghurt is clearly not right. This is a deliberate mislead by the food industry.

“These engineered foods behave differently when it comes to flavour release,” he adds.

“Rather than a slow release that moves at the pace of the chew, we get a more instant hit.

But this flavour quickly dies, leaving children feeling emptier sooner, so they eat more.”

It’s also important to note that taking the time to chew properly and appreciate the flavour of our food comes with a host of health benefits, including better digestion.

“Left alone, children tend to enjoy something at their own time and pace – finding the bits and elements that work for them,” adds Greg.

But what do you think? Are you concerned about the quality of ingredients and the zone of artifice in your child’s food? Organix wants to hear what you have to say – get involved: Facebook/organixfood, Twitter: @organixbrands or use #OrganixTaste. organix.com

say they are more likely to buy food that says it is ‘real’

66%

think their child prefers chicken nuggets to chicken breast

86%

are concerned about artificial flavours and colours in food targeted at children

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 119

FAMILY LIFE

Progressive babywearing solutions

I

DADLED weaning N EW FATH ER Sam For tescue TRIE S VARIOUS APPROACH E S WITH DAUGHTER OLGA , WITH DIFFERING DEGR EE S OF SUCCE SS t wasn’t meant to be like this. We had read the weaning books (the royal ‘we’, admittedly) and decided that baby-led weaning was the way to go.

We’d seen the cute pictures of little people wearing spaghetti, and kitchens resembling an explosion in a spinach-packing plant. But we loved the idea of Olga building a healthy relationship with food that would avoid the hours spent coaxing her to eat two mouthfuls of mush. We knew it would be messy, so we’d bought a jazzy floor mat, a place mat and drafted in some extra bibs. The kitchen walls could be wiped clean, and we made sure we weren’t togged up in anything fine when it came to meal times. What could go wrong?

I

WEEK 1 The Stokke Tripp Trapp high chair arrived at long last. Like most red-blooded men, I disdained the instructions on assembly, ensuring that it took twice as long to build as it should have done. Nonetheless, it was very simple to put together.

The Tripp Trapp is designed to slide up against the table so your baby can be part of family meals. A fine principle, we both thought. Certainly Olga seems enthusiastic, and doesn’t sit still with her delight.

We started slowly: steamed carrot sticks and celery. ‘Celery?’, I hear you ask – the fibrous, hard-to-chew stalk? Yes, indeed. And no, it didn’t go down too well. Olga’s first tooth still isn’t through, so she made better use of it as a teething aid than a meal.

WRAPS&SLINGS&CARRIERS! 120 wemademe.com | MAR/APR 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

WEEK 2 Rice cake starter today. Olga makes short work of the first, which rapidly dissolves in her sticky little hands. She gets halfway through the second one before deciding to experiment by dropping it on the floor. She then spends the rest of the meal craning over the side of her high chair for a better view of her handiwork, looking for all the world like a little lorry driver leaning out of her cab. She’s getting used to helping herself.

With two lactose-intolerant parents, we’ve been told that there’s an 80% chance that Olga will also have trouble with dairy protein.

Unfortunately, this counts out some staple weaning options, including cheese. Porridge should be OK, we reckon.

Because her weight-gain hasn’t been stellar, we decide to spoon-feed the porridge to ensure it goes down well. Olga takes to this novel method keenly. She quickly gets into the habit of opening her mouth when she’s ready, like a fledgling demanding to be fed.

The porridge that had seemed so promising the day before is now firmly off the menu. Olga wolfed it down, then had two good meals of puréed potato and veg the day before. But when it came to bedtime she looked a bit peaky, then, to her own astonishment as well as ours, began to projectile vomit everywhere. The whole day’s food had come back up. No more oats, then.

We stick to special-treat Ella’s Kitchen pouches, which Olga eyes greedily as we dish them out.

Sam admits it hasn’t been all smiles getting his little one into a new eating routine

wrapp™ wuttiiw a wu r

™

FAMILY LIFE

The carrot sticks go down a treat

OLGA QUICKLY GETS INTO THE HABIT OF OPENING HER MOUTH WHEN SHE’S READY WEEK 3 Olga has a weigh-in today and is declared to have slipped from 25th percentile to 15th percentile. It’s clear that we’re going to have to pep up her mealtimes. It also makes us even more reluctant to trust baby-led weaning. It feels as if she can’t afford any bad feeds.

Jazzy floor covering and place mat at the ready

WEEK 4 We slip into a routine where Olga has formula, baby rice and fruit compote for breakfast, mashed veg, potato and meat paste for lunch and a veggie-carb brew for supper. In between, we present her with steamed vegetables, sliced fruit or the odd Organix snack.

We discover that Weetabix has a similar effect to oats, so cross that off the list. Rice, quinoa and baby pasta go down well, however.

Mealtimes feel a bit restrictive, and we try not to rely too heavily on shop-bought pots, but there’s something heartbreaking about seeing her screw up her face at the lovingly handcrafted parsnip, pea and lamb lunch, then wolf down a purée pack. However, she’s thriving, inquisitive about everything and very chatty, so it can’t be going too badly. It goes to show, little people have minds of their own, and don’t always stick to the plan.

Oats might be off the menu, but Olga loves steamed veggies

FACE &TIME &TIME WRAPS&SLINGS&CARRIERS! 121 WRAPS&SLINGS&CARRIERS! wemademe.com wemademe.com babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 |

FOOD

EGGTASTIC

EATS

HOWEVER YOU R LIT TLE ON E LIKE S TH EM , PUT A SPRING IN TH EIR STEP WITH Annabel Karmel ’s FAVOU RITE H E ALTHY EGG R ECIPE S

t’s no yolk that eggs are a cracking food to have at any time of the day. Whether you want to boil or scramble for breakfast, bake or poach for lunch, eggs are an excellent source of protein to keep little ones fuelled for their busy days and nights.

Babies from six months can eat eggs, as long as they are thoroughly cooked through.

For older children, why not pack their scrambled eggs and omelettes with a colourful array of veggies? Try anything fom sweet peppers and tomatoes, to courgettes and onions to add flavour.

Some of my favourite recipes contain eggs, so here is my pick of the best Easter-inspired dishes.

For more recipe ideas, check out Annabel’s Essential Guide to Feeding Your Baby & Toddler app (available on Android and iOS), or visit annabelkarmel.com.

I

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

FOOD

SOFT-BOILED EGGS WITH ITALIAN SOLDIERS SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 1 PORTION INGRE DIE NTS

1 egg 2 breadsticks 2 slices prosciutto METHOD

• Put a large pan of water on a high heat and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat slightly to a brisk simmer. Gently lower in the egg, using a spoon, and cook for 4 minutes (for a runny yolk and a set white).

• Meanwhile, break the breadsticks in half and cut the slices of prosciutto in half lengthways. Wrap a piece of prosciutto around one of the breadstick halves, starting at the broken or cut end, and wrap twisting downwards, so around two-thirds of the breadstick is covered. Press the ham firmly on itself to seal. Repeat so you have four Italian soldiers.

• Transfer the egg to an egg cup and cut off the top. Dip the Italian soldiers into the egg yolk, and enjoy.

SCRAMBLED EGGS WITH TOMATO SALSA ON ENGLISH MUFFIN SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 2 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

2 eggs 2 tbsp milk 1 English muffin Knob of butter, for cooking, plus extra for the muffins FOR THE SALSA

1 tomato, deseeded and diced 2 spring onions, thinly sliced ¼ red chilli (optional) ½ tsp rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil METHOD

• Slice the muffin in half and toast the two halves.

• Meanwhile, make the salsa. Mix all of the salsa ingredients together in a bowl, and season.

• In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, and season. Melt the butter in a pan and, when it starts to sizzle, pour in the egg mixture.

Immediately reduce the heat to medium-low and sprinkle the eggs with a little salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently, and cook over the heat for 2-3 minutes until the eggs look wet but are no longer liquid. Remove pan from the heat.

• Butter the toasted muffin halves and place on a plate. Top them with the scrambled eggs and then a little of the salsa.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 123

FOOD

EGG-HEAD OPEN SANDWICHES SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 4 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

7 eggs 4-5 tbsp mayonnaise 4 slices of bread, buttered Salt and freshly ground black pepper FOR THE DECOR ATION

Sliced red pepper, grated carrot, olives, salami, gherkins, chives, basil, peas, cherry tomatoes METHOD

• Bring a pan of water to the boil and gently lower in the eggs. Simmer for 12 minutes, then carefully drain off the hot water. Fill the pan with cold water and leave the eggs inside until cool. (The eggs can be boiled up to 2 days ahead and stored, unpeeled, in the fridge.)

• Peel and slice 2 eggs using an egg slicer or a knife. Set aside 8 of the slices to make the eyes. Place the remaining pieces in a bowl with the other 5 peeled eggs. Mash with a fork and add the mayonnaise. Season to taste.

• Cover all 4 slices of bread with egg mayonnaise. Make the faces using the toppings, as shown in the photo, right.

FRITTATA WITH CHERRY TOMATOES SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 1 FRITTATA INGRE DIE NTS

5 eggs, beaten 2 tbsp olive oil 2 small onions, sliced 8 new potatoes, cooked and sliced 2 tbsp milk 30g mature cheddar, grated 8 cherry tomatoes, halved 1 tbsp chives, chopped METHOD

• Pre-heat the grill.

• Heat the oil in a small non-stick omelette pan.

Add the onion and gently fry until soft. Add the potatoes, combine and season.

• Add the cheese to the eggs, season, then pour into the pan. Gently heat until set around the edges. Arrange the tomatoes, cut-side up, on top of the egg and sprinkle with chives.

• Place under a hot grill for about 5 minutes, until lightly golden and set in the middle.

• Slice into wedges and eat hot or cold.

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

The must-have recipe app FOR Your baby and toddler With over 220 delicious recipes, planners and a host of interactive features, Annabel’s Essential Guide to Feeding Your Baby & Toddler is the must-have app to keep your family on track.

Download from the app store www.annabelkarmel.com

FURNITURE

INTERIORS

GIFTS

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FUN IN THE SUN

A new 84-room hotel opens this spring on the Portuguese coast. From various kids’ clubs to adventurous pursuits, including horse riding and surfing, there’s plenty more to do at the Martinhal Cascais Family Resort than just kick back by the pool.

The beaches of Guincho are a short walk away, while Lisbon is just a 30-minute drive.

Designed with families in mind, the resort certainly has something for everyone. martinhal.com

travel

NEWS

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

WATER BABIES P&O Cruises has teamed up with Tappy Toes to launch dance classes for its littlest passengers.

Featuring on 13 select holidays in 2016, the sessions are aimed at those under two, but older siblings are also welcome. Tappy Toes’ inaugural voyage sets sail on Sunday 3 July, on a seven-night trip to the Norwegian Fjords. pocruises.com

LIFE’S A BEACH… Escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful views of Widemouth Bay from Atlantic View, a set of six new luxury eco-cottages nestled on the north Cornish coast. Each property comes with a balcony, open-plan interior and log burner to ensure ultimate year-round comfort. Prices from £795, beachretreats.co.uk

As baby bags go, this one from new label Kerikit is ultra handy. The soft, oversized leather bag has a multitude of mum-friendly features, plus an internal removeable organiser perfect for passports and travel documents.

‘Aryella XL’ leather changing bag £370, kerikit.com

PLANNING AN EASTER SKI TRIP? ESCAPE TO THE DOLOMITES THIS SPRING WITH THE GIAULI’S WOODS PACKAGE AT THE CRISTALLO IN CORTINA D’AMPEZZO. THE FAMILY-RUN FIVE-STAR RESORT, NESTLED DEEP IN THE ITALIAN MOUNTAINS, IS CELEBRATING EASTER WITH AN ARRAY OF EVENTS, FROM LIVE FOOD DEMOS TO DOG-SLEDGING EXCURSIONS. CRISTALLO.IT

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ª Postcard from…

NEW FOREST s the weeks turned to months, it began to dawn on me that my newborn daughter Charlotte was no longer very new at all, and that some time away from home was long overdue. I was on the lookout for somewhere that welcomed children – and babies in particular – so, after a bit of research, we opted for Lime Wood Hotel.

Hidden away in the New Forest, it was an ideal distance from London, and the promise of ‘laid-back luxury’ and a few hours in the Herb House spa were just what our sleep-deprived little family needed.

We dropped off our toddler with my parents and headed off with a newfound sense of freedom, only for Charlotte to scream most of the way there. She perked up during checkin, however, when she found herself surrounded by five cooing attendants.

I was half tempted to leave the baby at reception, but we took her up to our room where we found a good-sized travel cot with an extra mattress, and a beautiful marble-clad bathroom. Things were looking up!

Despite the grand exterior, Lime Wood feels informal and intimate.

We spotted a few children about the place, but with the stunning gardens and the New Forest on the doorstep, they mostly seemed to be heading out. With no kids’ club, families are encouraged to come and spend time together, exploring the forest,

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d ged to spen re encoura er h et g to g Families a n and explori g in lk a w time

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swimming, playing games – something I agree with wholeheartedly.

However, on this occasion, I will confess to heading straight to the Herb House, solo. My Bamford De-Stress Massage (£95 for 60 minutes) was sublime. The therapist worked wonders on my aching back, and had lots of good tips for postpregnancy wellbeing. In the summer, the spa offers yoga classes on the roof garden, and there’s both an indoor pool and a large outdoor jacuzzi.

I lingered in the spa, admiring the trees through the glass walls of the sauna, marvelling at how peaceful it all was. We managed to convince Charlotte to sleep in the buggy while we enjoyed lunch in Raw & Cured, the Herb House’s café, and wondered why on earth we hadn’t escaped the city when the baby was four weeks old instead of four months.

In the evening, the restaurant, Hartnett Holder & Co, could not have been more baby friendly – even giving us a table where the baby monitor worked, and explaining that babies in prams were welcome if things didn’t go according to plan.

We crammed so much into our short stay, it felt like we’d been away for a week. The whole experience reminded us that lovely hotels and young babies can indeed mix, if you choose the right one. limewoodhotel.co.uk

Lyndhurst was the perfect distance from London

The Herb House spa is the ultimate retreat for a spot of rest and relaxation

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

The family enjoyed the wild and idyllic surrounds of the New Forest

Kate Finney AN D H ER FAMILY H E AD TO LYN DH U R ST FOR A SPOT OF RU R AL R EL A X ATION

Free goody bag for every mum-to-be and new mum

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JOIN US ON OUR PLAYGROUND SELF-CATERING FAMILY HOLIDAYS ON THE CORNISH COAST

PROMOTION

Travel in

Style

ENJOY A STR E SS-FR EE SUMM ER H OLIDAY IN AN IDYLLIC VILL A FOR YOU AN D YOU R FAMILY illas have become a hugely appealing option for family breaks. And having your dream location booked, on that very week you wanted, is guaranteed to get you counting down the days until the summer holidays begin.

With more than 30 years of experience in luxury villa rentals, independent family-owned business Quality Villas understands the needs of its guests, offering personal, first-hand advice on the best accommodation.

With just shy of 450 luxury villas in its portfolio, you can explore inviting locations across France, Italy and Morocco. Each property boasts its own pool, unless it’s found on the beach. In fact, the hardest bit will be choosing your destination. With something to suit every family’s needs, you’ll never be short of inspiration, whether you’re searching for the perfect cosy cottage in Provence for a babymoon, or a classic chateau in the Loire Valley for your first family getaway.

The south of France is a great patch for exploring. Stretching from the surf haven of Biarritz to glitzy St Tropez and the famous Côte d’Azur, Quality Villas has many offerings here. If you’re pining for an Italian adventure, prepare yourself for a whole host of brilliance, with a selection of lake villas to tempt you in the north. Imagine being nestled among the likes of Lake Como, Maggiore or Garda, or

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immersing yourself in stunning Alpine views.

The villas roll on down the country, choose from Liguria, Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio, or the famous Amalfi coast. Looking for something slightly further afield? In Morocco, Quality Villas operates a number of staffed properties, meaning every whim is taken care of.

Whether you need a little extra help to plan your trip or are independent travellers, all visitors can enjoy the complimentary concierge service. Experts in their fields, the talented team can organise airport transfers, a housekeeper or babysitter, a private chef for a celebratory meal, or whatever else you require to complete your dream stay. qualityvillas.com

Choose a villa in the French Riviera for unrivalled coastal views

Say hello to ultimate lu xur y, comfo style for the rt and duration of your stay

EXCLUSIVE OFFER Quality Villas is offering Baby London readers a complimentary food package on arrival at your villa. Enjoy a fridge filled with local produce – a great way to kick-start your holiday. Or, if you can’t wait until your trip, quote Baby London when booking and receive a case of fine French wine delivered to your door. Happy holidays, indeed! Call 01442 870 055 or email info@qualityvillas.com. qualityvillas.com/chelsea.

TRAVEL

Cape of

GOOD HOPE

Alice Callander, CO-FOUNDER OF SALLY AN D ALICE TR AVEL, ROU N DS U P ALL SOUTH AFRICA’S WE STER N CAPE HAS TO OFFER uxurious accommodation and lazy days filled with long lunches and wine tastings are not things traditionally associated with family holidays, especially if there are babies and toddlers in tow. But South Africa’s Western Cape, most famous for the iconic city of Cape Town and surrounding winelands, is overturning preconceived notions about family travel.

When you consider its Mediterranean climate, stunning coastline, abundance of wildlife, child-friendly entertainment and incredible food, it’s no surprise. Add to that the minimal time difference and generous exchange rate, and you’ve got holiday perfection.

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CAPE TOWN

Alice checks out all Cape Town has to offer

WHERE TO STAY Families who want to be able to access Cape Town easily, but also have space to unwind will love the Vineyard Hotel, set in the leafy suburb of Newlands. Close to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, families with active toddlers will be thankful for the expansive grounds, HOW TO GET THERE: An 11-hour home to five giant tortoises and two and 30-minute direct flight from swimming pools. There’s a dedicated London to Cape Town kid’s menu and cots, and babysitting is TIME DIFFERENCE: GMT + 2 hours available on request. vineyard.co.za WHEN TO GO: November An annexe of one of our favourite to March is best boutique boltholes, Cape Cadogan, CURRENCY: South African rand More Quarters Hotel is a luxurious VISA REQUIREMENTS: Not self-catering option, offering one- and required for UK passport two-bed apartments slap-bang in the holders, but parents will be middle of Cape Town. The apartments asked to show a full birth don’t have pools, but you’re only a certificate of any child under 18 five-minute drive from Camps Bay HEALTH: Malaria-free, no beach. morequarters.co.za vaccinations required

QUICK FACTS

Rent bikes with the kids and explore the bustling Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

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Cape Town, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, is the perfect place to start or finish your trip, with fantastic hotels, excellent shopping, world-renowned restaurants and a variety of activities for kids.

TRAVEL

See stunning landscapes on board the Franschhoek Wine Tram

CAPE WINELANDS

The Winelands are only an hour’s drive from Cape Town, with stunning scenery, historic towns, elegant Cape-Dutch architecture and renowned vineyards and restaurants.

A great self-catering option that sleeps up to 10 people

Explorers Club

One & Only Cape Town sits in the heart of the bustling Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, giving families easy access to shops, restaurant and attractions. It’s also got the largest pool in Cape Town and has a complimentary kids’ club for those aged 4-11 years. With fantastic views of either the marina or Table Mountain, most rooms can take extra beds or interconnect.

Plus, it boasts two of Cape Town’s best restaurants to boot: Nobu and Reubens. oneandonlyresorts.com WHERE TO EAT Café Roux in Noordhoek is easily accessible off Chapman’s Peak Drive (a scenic outing in itself), just 30 mins from the city. Beneath oak trees, it overlooks a children’s playground and grassy area. Weekends are buzzing, with free kids activities every Saturday and live music on Sunday afternoons. The food is great, with an emphasis on local produce. caferoux.co.za WHAT TO DO The open spaces and stunning views of the Kirstenbosch Gardens are hard to beat. From December to April, the gardens run a live music series, which locals and tourists flock to with picnic baskets. sanbi.org/gardens

THE WHALE COAST

The Whale Coast is the name given to a 250km stretch of coastline that lies to the east of Cape Town. The area is best known for whale watching and shark cage diving.

WHERE TO STAY Grootbos Garden Lodge is set on a private nature reserve, a short distance from the beach town of Hermanus. The lodge offers luxury, child-friendly accommodation across 11 free-standing suites, with plenty of space for kids to run wild. Toddlers under four stay for free, and baby equipment is provided, along with special children’s menus and babysitting services for those keen to do some horseriding or take on a shark cage dive. grootbos.com WHAT TO DO Grootbos is only five minutes from the beach, so guests can head out with their little ones armed with a picnic and buckets and spades.

It’s also a great place for whale watching. From June to December, the Southern right whale graces Walker Bay with its massive presence and you don’t even need to take a boat trip to partake, as mothers, calves and bulls come to within 30 metres of the rocky shoreline.

WHERE TO STAY Explorers Club, a fabulous self-catering option that sleeps up to 10 in four rooms, is great for families with young children. There is a special kids’ room with bunk beds and lots of toys and books to keep them entertained.

The main living area has been done in an understated bush camp style and is open-plan, helpful if you have kids that need a watchful eye. Large folding doors open out on to the garden, where there is a solar-heated pool to splash around in (there’s no fence around the pool, but a net can be put in), and an outdoor eating area. The property works with a reliable babysitter, leaving mum and dad free to stroll to nearby Franschhoek. explorersclub.co.za WHERE TO EAT Tokara Deli in Stellenbosch is an arty deli with a trendy play area outside, just beside the seating area on the verandah, so parents can keep an eye on the children while they dine.

The area includes two jungle gyms with swings, and a slide and sandpit with umbrella. Another big attraction is the ‘bird’s nest’ hidden in a large tree that kids can climb into. For smaller toddlers and babies they have toy boxes on the floor to play with. tokara.co.za WHAT TO DO Explore the beautiful Franschhoek Valley in the open-sided Franschhoek Wine Tram, which takes you across scenic landscapes dotted with vineyards, farms and meadows. The old-fashioned locomotive works on a hop-on, hop-off system, which means there is no need to stay put for the entire tour if the kids are getting fidgety. Tickets are free for children under four. winetram.co.za

Take the kids horseriding at Grootbos Garden Lodge

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EDUCATION

bilingual baby Becky Dickinson LOOKS AT TH E BEN EFITS OF E XPOSING CHILDR EN TO L ANGUAGE S IN E AR LY CHILDHOOD

very day, when my partner walks in from work, something strange happens to our three children.

They’ll stop what they’re doing and run up to him with shouts of “Ciao papa!” and “Guarda, papa!” (Look, papa!).

Despite having spoken English all day, it’s as if a switch goes on and they start talking in Italian, at least for the next few minutes.

I’m English and my partner is Italian, and we made a conscious decision to raise our children bilingually from birth. It wasn’t something we researched, we just decided that we would speak to them in our respective mother tongues, partly so they’d be able to communicate with their non-English speaking relatives abroad.

Yet, for children who can speak an additional language, there are a raft of benefits besides being able to ask for an orange juice in another country. Jane Fox is mother tongue coordinator at ACS Egham International School, where languages are key. She says, “It’s clear that developing

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early bilingualism in children has several cognitive benefits, including cultural insight and empathy, enrichment of one language by the other, an expansion of one’s world – more literature, films, enhanced travel experiences – and enhanced employability.”

It’s well known that fluency in an extra language makes it easier to learn other languages, too. But research has also shown that languages can help children in other areas as well, especially when it comes to focusing attention. One famous example is the Stroop Effect experiment. In this test, participants see colour words that are printed in different colours, such as the word red printed in the colour blue, and they have to say what colour the word is. Strangely, bilinguals are able to do this faster than monolinguals.

Dr Matthew Watson, a psychology lecturer at the University of Sunderland, says it’s all to do with conflicting information. “Bilinguals have both languages activated in their minds at all times, so there is always this sort of conflict about word selection. This means

bilinguals become better at this sort of attentional control and this then transfers to non-linguistic tasks.”

When it comes to acquiring an additional language, children who are born into mixed nationality families have an obvious advantage. Though, as Jane points out, there’s still no room for complacency if you want to ensure you child grows up bilingual. She says: “Each parent should use the language they speak best to communicate with their child, and do it consistently. Expect them to use that language when they respond to you. Consistent use of your home language can become challenging when your child is immersed in a setting that uses a different tongue and he or she becomes more apt to respond to you in the language that has become most familiar.”

If both husband and wife speak the same language, there are still plenty of ways to raise a linguist. For example, encouraging friends, or perhaps an au pair, to speak in their native tongue to your children.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 135

EDUCATION

Jane recommends maximising exposure to the language you want your children to learn. “When the target language isn’t part of your daily language use, the clue is to build a purpose for using it, and doing so frequently,” she says. “For example, take up karate in Japanese, or dance classes in Spanish, watch movies or programmes in the target language with the subtitles turned off, make friends with people who speak the target language fluently. Nothing beats immersion, though, and travel to the places where the language is spoken is invaluable.”

Another mum who believes in the value of raising children to speak additional languages is Mona Urbain of urbanmummy.co.uk. She speaks English, French, Arabic, Farsi and Italian, and says, “My husband and I started speaking to our kids in our respective languages literally from the day they were born. I think it’s such a shame for non-English parents not to teach their kids their mother tongue. Children learn languages effortlessly, they just pick it up without having to think about it.”

Mona admits she’s lucky to be able to pass on her own languages to her children, but says, “For monolingual parents there are more and more workshops, play groups and foreign language tuition for kids, especially in such cosmopolitan cities like London. In Paris, people put so much effort into providing English tuition for their children and they usually start them as young as three years old.”

Whether or not more than one language is spoken in the home, the key to raising young linguists is to start from birth. You could even prepare for this during pregnancy, by seeking out books and nursery rhymes

TAKE UP KARATE IN JAPANESE, DANCE CLASSES IN SPANISH, OR WATCH MOVIES WITH THE SUBTITLES OFF in other languages. “Languages are about cadence, tone and rhythm as much as they are about grammar and structure,” says Jane.

“Children pick up on this before they can even produce recognisable languages of their own.

The earlier they are exposed to language, the better it is for their pre-literacy.”

With this is mind, perhaps one of the reasons that British people are so famously poor at speaking other languages is because of the lack of importance languages are often given in early education. If a child doesn’t start learning, say French, until they reach secondary school, they are already at a disadvantage. According to Dr Watson, “If a person is monolingual until after the age of 14,

they rarely gain true proficiency of a second language. There is not usually a problem learning words of a second language, as that relies on the semantic memory part of the mind. However, learning the rules of grammar is very difficult. It is therefore best to learn any languages as early as possible.’’

This probably explains why my own attempts to converse in Italian are usually met with hilarity and correction by my own children. But while it may be too late for many adults to gain fluency in another tongue, it’s not too late to help our children benefit from the advantages of speaking more than one language. At the very least, hopefully they’ll be grateful for a free GCSE in the future.

LISTEN AND LEARN

CHICCO ITALIAN BILINGUAL TELEPHONE This colourful bilingual toy telephone sings nursery rhymes and teaches numbers one to nine in both English and Italian. Suitable for little ones from 12 months old. £32.99, rachelstoyshop.co.uk

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BABY LOVES SPANISH CD (VOLUME ONE) Familiarise your baby with the sounds of the Spanish language from birth, with this CD of reworked classic nursery rhymes. Each song is sung in English first, then in Spanish. £11.95, bilinguasing.com

FRENCH BABY BAND BAG The Baby Band Bag contains a CD of nursery rhymes sung in both English and French, a mini drum, shaker, fish rattle and cage-bell perfect for even the littlest hands to hold. £22.50, babyboomboom.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SHUTTERSHOCK

Three top picks to inspire your little learner

Help develop their language skills Halo

HELLO

CiaO

BONJOUR

您弽 babyboomboom products are designed to help familiarise little ones with the sounds of a second language.The music is available to download or on CD and takes well-known songs in English with each verse repeated in a second language. Choose from French, Spanish, German, Italian, Polish, Welsh, Chinese or Scottish Gaelic.

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hello@babyboomboom.com +44 (0)1491 636262 babyboomboom123 @babyboomboom1

Hallo

A helping

HAND

Paola Diana, FOU N DER OF INTER NATIONAL SE ARCH CON SU LTANC Y NAN NY & BUTLER , GIVE S H ER ADVICE ON FIN DING TH E PER FEC T NAN NY FOR YOU R FAMILY hoosing to bring a nanny into your home can have a range of positive effects, not least allowing your family to lead a happier life that involves spending quality time together. Hiring help is not without its difficulties, though, and there are a number of things to consider during the process.

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THE CONSULTATION If a consultant asks you lots of questions about your family, your routines and your household, it shows that they are interested in your needs. Based on their understanding of these factors, the consultant should then be able to advise you on the kind of person that would be best for the role.

Remember, do be open to their advice.

I often find that what a family thinks they need may be different to the reality – and that is based on experience of placing nannies for many years.

THE SEARCH It’s important to be patient when an agency is sending you nanny profiles. If an agency is good, they will send less profiles, but ones that are more targeted to your needs. Be worried if an agency sends 20 profiles straight away, as this implies their search isn’t tailored to you.

THE INTERVIEW PROCESS The next stage is interviewing potential nannies, and there are a few things that you can do to really get the most out of the

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meeting. Putting together a to-do list can help make it clear what the role will involve, and ensure everyone’s expectations are managed.

In terms of questions, try to think of ones that will show someone’s character but also reveal the working environments they enjoy.

For example, ‘What was one of your favourite previous employment positions, and what did you like about it?’ or ‘What was one of your least favourite employment positions, and what did you dislike about it?’ Some may find the latter more difficult to answer, but the manner in which they respond will give insight as to their loyalty to previous employers.

AFTER THEY START Once you’ve found the perfect match, I would suggest having a catch up every week during the first two months to see how things are going. This is a good opportunity to let your nanny know what they’re doing well and any areas that you would like done differently, as well as to see if they have any suggestions.

It’s vital that if you have any concerns or questions throughout the hiring process and into the placement, that you speak with your agency. I always stress to my team how important it is that clients are guided through the entire process, whether they are new to it or not. We give assistance throughout the interview stages, as well as on-going support after placements, and our bespoke approach means that people keep coming back. nannybutler.com

RUNNING HEAD

PUTTING TOGETHER A TO-DO LIST CAN HELP MAKE IT CLEAR WHAT THE ROLE WILL INVOLVE

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

TOP HIRING TIPS • Decide quickly. The best candidates get snapped up fast.

• Be honest. Tell the candidate exactly what the role entails so there are no surprises, and you will all be happy.

• Go with your instinct. It’s a very personal thing to have someone in your home and with your family – you should feel completely natural and at ease with that person.

• If you’re working with a good agency, listen to them. They will usually have lots of experience, and will make recommendations based on that.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 139

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EDUCATION

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

education

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: SHUTTERSTOCK

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700.

The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

NEWS

EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM

GIVE IT A NAME Ensure your child’s belongings never go walkabout again with Write Away! laminate labels. Simply write, seal and stick straight on to practically any item, from books to socks to shoes. And once they’re on, they’re not going anywhere fast – these labels are UV-resistant, and laundry and dishwasher safe. Hurrah! £4.99, writeawaymabel.co.uk

EXHIBIT NUMBER ONE Research has shown that science and technology top the poll when it comes to children’s favourite museums. The survey, carried out by AVonics, puts the success down to a more interactive experience.

According to stats, 52% of kids prefer a science or technology attraction, while art and war were the least enticing for little minds. avonics.co.uk

Engaging and fun interactions make this app a hit with little ones

MONKEY SEE… Children’s author Chris Haughton is the man behind new game Hat Monkey.

Instead of adapting his books for tablets, he has created an app where kids can help Monkey complete everyday tasks. With beautifully simple graphics, even young kids will empathise with him. £2.49, apple.com/itunes

DAVID CAMERON WANTS TO NORMALISE PARENTING CLASSES, CLAIMING ALL PARENTS COULD BENEFIT FROM LEARNING HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH AND DISCIPLINE THEIR CHILDREN. THE PRIME MINISTER HAS SUGGESTED A VOUCHER SCHEME TO INCENTIVISE THE ATTENDANCE OF SUCH CLASSES.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 141

EDUCATION

MEET THE HEAD When are you taking up the post of headteacher at St Benedict’s?

I am delighted to be taking over this September.

What is your professional background?

I have been Head of Stonyhurst College, a Catholic boarding and day school, for the past 10 years.

What makes independent Catholic education attractive to children and parents?

Independent Catholic education starts with the belief that every pupil is an individual. Everyone can achieve extraordinary things, providing they have the right support, the right nurturing and the right amount of encouragement and challenge.

What do you see as the particular strengths of St Benedict’s School?

A Benedictine school has an interesting further dimension.

Can you think of anything more genuine or compelling for a Catholic school than to have members of the monastic community involved in the day to

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ANDREW JOHNSON St Benedict’s School

We catch up with the soon-to-be headteacher of the Ealing-based school day life of the school, modestly living out their daily lives by the rule of St Benedict, as a witness to the pupils and staff?

This way of living, which has stood the test of time for the past 1,500 years, complements so well the energy and vibrancy of a thriving 21st-century school. Now, imagine all of that happening in a place which isn’t set in a far-flung corner of the countryside, but in a bustling London suburb.

What is your vision?

Benedictine values infuse the life of the school, so pupils learn a way of living, and a route to achieving their potential. They learn that self-discipline and hard work lead to success, as well as the importance of wisdom, generosity, and how to play a meaningful part in society.

I want to see the school widely recognised across our city for offering an outstanding Catholic education, preparing young people to be successful in many walks of life and to make a valuable contribution to society.

How do you hope to fulfil that?

My approach starts with the belief that

every pupil must have the opportunity to develop their interests to the full: in their academic work, in sports, music, drama, and in the friendships they form. In this way, as well as developing their academic abilities, young people will also develop character, resilience and a crucial sense of self-worth.

Achieving examination success is hugely important, of course.

And, in an age where we have a huge amount of information available at our fingertips, so is learning how to think. Our ability to engage successfully with the contemporary world is not just about the discrete subjects we study, important though they are.

It’s also determined by how we are able to sift information and make sound decisions.

By learning to think for themselves, by being firm in what they believe, rather than following the crowd, St Benedict’s pupils will be able to enjoy professional success, live happy and fulfilled lives and make a real difference in society. bl stbenedicts.org.uk

• Full time day care from 8 months to 5 years • Open 7.30am - 6.30pm •• Full time dayTeaching care from 8 months to 5 years Montessori from 2 ½ years •• Open 7.30am 6.30pm Flexible childcare options •• •• WEE ONES DAY NURSERY 4 St Ann’s Crescent, Wandsworth SW18 2LR WEE ONES DAY NURSERY 4 St Ann’s208 Crescent, T: +44(0) 870 7729 Wandsworth SW18 2LR E: enquiries@wee-ones.co.uk www.wee-ones.co.uk T: +44(0) 208 870 7729 E: enquiries@wee-ones.co.uk www.wee-ones.co.uk

Montessori Teaching fromspace 2 ½ years Fantastic Outdoor garden Flexible childcare options Good daily balance of play,

• Fantastic Outdoor space learning and socialgarden interaction Good daily balanceactivities of play, for 2 ½ years +, • Exciting afternoon learning social Drama interaction includingand Spanish, and Sports • Exciting afternoon activities for 2 ½ years +, Please speak to our Registrar, including Spanish, Drama and Sports Jodie Nelson, to find out more about the childcare we provide.

Please speak to our Registrar, Jodie Nelson, to find out more about the childcare we provide.

Independent Day School for Girls from 4 -18 years Queen’s Gate School offers girls a friendly, supportive environment, where individuality is nurtured, academic standards are high and where a broad based curriculum ensures a well rounded education.

For a prospectus, or to make a private visit to the School, please contact the Registrar Miss Janette Micklewright, on 020 7594 4982 or email, registrar@queensgate.org.uk Queen’s Gate Junior School 125-126 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5LJ

Queen’s Gate Senior School 131-133 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5LE

www.queensgate.org.uk

“By far the best agency I have ever dealt with. Everything was sorted within a fantastic time, every detail we wanted was catered to”

Hawkesdown House School

For boys aged 3 to 8 years

Babycare you can trust

Deearna’s Maternity Agency is one of the UK’s top providers of babycare.

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Run by a maternity nurse with more than 26 years experience, we guarantee only the best: • Maternity Nurses • Night Nannies • Twins and Multiples Specialists • Trouble-Shooters • Sleep Trainers • Feeding Consultants We provide a global service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

01252 844058 or 07771 660121 www.deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk

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

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 143

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY BBC & DAILY TELEGRAPH

FREE TRIAL LESSON

Fun French Lessons for Children Est 1993

A wonderful headstart in French

www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

020 7385 5565 - admincpp@btconnect.com

The Little London Music School The Little London Music School Introducing your child to the joytoof Introducing your child themusic joy of music

Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

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

NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK

OUT AND ABOUT

mini

AGENDA

L i a n n e K o l i r i n R O U N D S U P T H E C A P I TA L’ S B E S T E V E N T S

Baby & Toddler Show

All Aboard Play Zone

Baby & Toddler Show

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB 020 7565 7299 ltmuseum.co.uk

SANDOWN PARK Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9AJ 020 3627 3267 babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

The London Transport Museum invites kids to get in the driver’s seat of a bus, sail the Thames Nipper, fly the Emirates Air Line and much more. Toddlers will love the Baby DLR, plus, there’s the whole museum to explore.

Admission: children go free; adults pay £16 for a year’s unlimited admission.

Saturday to Thursday, 10am to 6pm. Fridays, 11am to 6pm.

The ultimate location for new and expectant parents in London and the South East, bringing together everything for your baby. All areas of birth and feeding, sleeping, nutrition and even finance are covered at the free expert workshops.

Admission: children go free; adult tickets from £13.

Friday 15 April, 10am to 4pm.

Saturday 16 to Sunday 17 April, 10am to 5pm.

Butterflies In The Glasshouse

Dinosaurs: Monster Families

RHS GARDEN WISLEY Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB 0845 260 9000 rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley

HORNIMAN MUSEUM 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 horniman.ac.uk

Hundreds of exotic butterflies are released among the plants in the jungle-like surroundings of the Glasshouse in this annual event. Spot species, including the striking Blue Morpho, Giant Owl and King Swallowtail.

Admission: under-fives go free; children, £6; adults, £12; family ticket, £29.75.

Until Sunday 6 March. Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Sat and Sunday, 9.30am to 4pm.

This new exhibition reveals the fascinating family life of dinosaurs through interactive exhibits, authentic specimens and life-size models. Dig in the discovery pit, view fossils and come face-to-face with T-Rex’s relative – the Tarbosaurus.

Admission: under-threes go free; children, £4.40; adults, £7.70; family ticket, £18.70.

Until Sunday 30 October.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 145

Giant Easter Duck Hunt

Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground at Willows Activity Farm

Disney On Ice presents Silver Anniversary Celebration

Disney On Ice Presents Silver Anniversary Celebration THE SSE ARENA Engineers Way, Wembley, London HA9 0AA 0844 815 0815 ssearena.co.uk Mickey and Minnie invite you to commemorate 25 years of Disney On Ice. The pair will be joined by pals Goofy, Donald and Daisy Duck as they visit the worlds of The Lion King, The Little Mermaid and Peter Pan. Admission: £27.75 to £51.75.

Wednesday 13 to Sunday 17 April. Performance times vary.

Easter at Kew Gardens KEW GARDENS Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB 020 8332 5655, kew.org Enjoy a fun-filled day, including arts and crafts, and a chance to explore the Lindt chocolate trail. Kids can also make their own chocolate at the Bean To Bar workshops.

Admission: under-threes go free; adult prices vary.

Saturday 19 March to Sunday 10 April, 10am to 5.30pm until Thursday 24 March, 10am to 6.30pm or 7.30pm thereafter.

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

Giant Easter Duck Hunt

Geffrye Explorers

WWT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth Walk, London SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/london

THE GEFFRYE: MUSEUM OF THE HOME Kingsland Road, London E2 8EA 020 7739 9893 geffrye-museum.org.uk

Spring is a wonderful time to visit, as new life is bursting out all around. But some ducklings have gone missing – follow the trail around this nature reserve to discover where they’re hiding. There are also lots of Easter games and crafts.

Admission: under-fours go free; children, £7; adults, £12.75.

Friday 25 March to Sunday 10 April.

Fun DMC

Little ones can explore the museum’s 20th century Chair Gallery with a ‘Sam The Dog’ backpack, or alternatively pick up a picnic hamper and head to the Garden Reading Room for a tea party.

Admission: free.

Every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, and throughout school holidays.

Happy Harry’s Café

MAIN SPACE, RICH MIX 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6LA 020 7613 7498, richmix.org.uk

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com

Party on down to Rich Mix for four hours of child-friendly hip-hop, funk and disco. A real block-party experience, with areas to dance, practice your graffiti, play with hip-hop fancy dress, or just chill with a drink.

Admission: free.

Sunday 6 March, 12pm to 4pm.

Harry’s soup is so delicious, his friends rush to get there before it runs out. But today, the soup is no good. What is Harry going to do? This show has been adapted for ages one to three.

Admission: £12.

Saturday 9 to Friday 15 April.

Performance times vary.

Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM Coursers Road, London Colney, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 willowsactivityfarm.com This spring sees the opening of the first ever Peter Rabbit themed play area at Willows Activity Farm. Highlights include the Peter Rabbit Secret Treehouse, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle’s Kitchen and Lily Bobtail’s Nature Discovery.

Admission: prices vary.

Opens Saturday 2 April, 10am to 5.30pm.

The Bee’s Knees BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN 020 7223 2223 bac.org.uk Step into a vibrant space filled with activities. There’s plenty of room for crawling, climbing and walking, and regular baby and toddler activities also run.

Admission: £3, though some classes may be extra.

Opening times vary, see website for details.

OUT AND ABOUT

Tales Big Day Out

Land of the Lions

Pram Jam

St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival

Brockwell Park Miniature Railway BROCKWELL PARK Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London SE24 0PA 07973 613 515 travelbpmr.com

Mother & Baby Treatment at Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre HOTEL CAFÉ ROYAL 68 Regent Street, London W1B 4DY 020 7406 3333 hotelcaferoyal.com

Little ones will love riding on this unique gauge miniature railway. On the way, you may spot a few animals in the woods alongside the track. To avoid disappointment, remember that all rides are weather permitting.

Admission: £1; under-twos go free.

The first train is at 11am and the last train at 4pm.

Lie back and enjoy as intuitive counsellor Sinéad de Hora focuses her healing energy on creating a sense of harmony between mother and baby, combined with gentle massage.

Admission: £190 for 90 minutes.

Call Hotel Café Royal to book.

Land Of The Lions

Pram Jam

ZSL LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY 020 7722 3333 zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo

ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 020 7960 4200 southbankcentre.co.uk

This Easter, ZSL London Zoo opens a new, interactive £5.7 million home for a pride of endangered Asiatic lions, designed to transport visitors from the heart of London to the vibrant Sasan Gir in India, where the wild lions reside.

Admission: under-threes go free; other prices vary.

Opens Friday 25 March.

These workshops are for parents of all singing abilities accompanying children aged five and under. Afterwards, watch Choir Baby perform.

Admission: £5 for one adult and up to two children aged five or under.

Saturday 19 March, 10.15am to 11am. Performance at 11.10am.

Jelly Bugs Soft Play

Tales Big Day Out

MEGAJUMP Manor Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 1QQ 020 3823 2020 megajump.co.uk

CHICKENSHED THEATRE Chase Side, Southgate, London N14 4PE 020 8292 9222 chickenshed.org.uk

Soft-play sessions for under fives at new trampoline park MegaJump will have them bouncing, giggling and dancing along to music, with plenty of toys and games to interact with. Little ones must be accompanied by an adult.

Admission: £4.50.

Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm. Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm.

Children will have the opportunity to take part in an interactive workshop and watch a performance of Tales From The Shed, before coming together for an extravaganza in the outdoor amphitheatre.

Admission: £8; babies under one year go free.

Saturday 16 April, 10am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 5pm.

St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival

Teddy Bear Rave

TRAFALGAR SQUARE London WC2N 5DS london.gov.uk

DNA LONDON 1 St Johns Hill, Clapham Junction, London SW11 1TN 07968 535 707 babylovesdisco.co.uk

The London St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival has become a destination event showcasing Irish music, dance, culture and arts, celebrating the roots of Irish communities in the capital.

Expect a food market, children’s theatre, films, a comedy festival and fashion show.

Admission: free.

Sunday 13 March.

Join those wonderful groovers from Baby Loves Disco. As always, the event promises to be a fab daytime dance party for babies and toddlers. Expect DJs mixing retro floor-fillers with the latest tunes at a baby-friendly volume.

Admission: £9.95 in advance; family ticket, £32.96.

Saturday 30 April, 1pm to 3pm.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 147

B

B

bethanblasephotography children’s portraits, family, newborn

Capture your children’s spirit and personality through beautiful location photographs, taken in your own home or favourite location

Gift Vouchers available • Tel: 07939447786 • Email: bethan@bethanblasephotography.com or visit the website: www.bethanblasephotography.com

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

OUT AND ABOUT

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure

1 YEAR FOR JUST £14.99

SAVING 50% THE STYLISH MAGAZINE FOR PARENTS IN THE CAPITAL

PregDance

The Polar Bears Go Up

PregDance

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com

THE BALLET SCHOOL St Mary’s of the Angels Catholic Church, Moorhouse Road, London W2 5DJ THE NEST 56 Abbey Gardens, London NW8 9AT 07807 882 519, pregdance.com

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure LEGOLAND WINDSOR Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY 0845 373 2640 legoland.co.uk To celebrate Legoland’s 20th anniversary, there’s a new movie coming to the attraction.

As always, there’s loads for a great day out, including the Duplo Valley featuring Drench Towers and Splash Safari.

Admission: from £37 when booked online in advance.

Under-threes go free.

Reopens Friday 11 March.

SPECIAL OFFER

2GIFTS SUBSCRIBE TO LITTLE LONDON AND GET

FREE*

New mums and mums-to-be can now stay fit with this hip new maternity-and-beyond ballet class.

Admission: £85 for a five-week course; £150 for 10 weeks.

Class times vary, see website.

Tiny Explorers At Kensington Palace

SET OF THREE NAIL POLISHES +

Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX 020 3166 6646 hrp.org.uk Explore the palace with other children aged up to four years in these multi-sensory workshops. Through music, movement and messy play, your little one will be transported into a magical world of stories.

Admission: £6.

Every Wednesday during term-time, see website for details.

£20 GIFTS AVAILABLE WHILE STOCKS LAST

Following last year’s exceptional The Polar Bears Go Wild, the Bears are back. This time the intrepid explorers are going up in the world, exploring unknown territory – the sky.

Admission: children, £10; adults, £16.

Sunday 17 April to Sunday 1 May. Performance times vary.

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.

VOUCHER *Direct Debit orders only

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www.littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/subscribe 01442 820 580 quote code P602LL

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 149

A SELEC TION OF

LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

Groups & Classes

ACTIVITIES

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

NURTURING A LIFETIME OF MUSIC Classes across London Award-winning pre-school music classes for children aged three months to four years. Monkey Music has 20 years’ experience of providing entertaining classes that captivate both children and adults with a combination of songs, activities, percussion instruments and props.

Monkey Music’s progressive curriculum encourages children to grow in confidence, improve listening, communication and concentration skills, and make new friends. Classes are offered in Putney, Barnes, Parsons Green, Fulham, Chelsea, Gloucester Road, Belgravia, Kensington, Notting Hill, Primrose Hill and Hampstead.

Check the website for timetable and book your complimentary session. monkeymusic.co.uk

FOR LITTLE LEARNERS Starting from babies to 11 years NEW: Unique Baby and Little Discovery Classes for six months to 24 months old. Magical classes allow babies to explore their senses with new topics each week, such as bees, frogs and stars, combined with music, colours, shapes. Little Maths, Rhythm and Shapes and Little House of Science are two fantastic after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps in the world of numbers and science that much easier. Little Maths workshops, for two to four year olds, build your child’s confidence with numbers. Meanwhile, The Little House of Science workshop, for three to 11 years old, introduces new scientific concepts through discussions and experiments.

0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com

Club Petit Pierrot AS SOON AS YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN PLAY FOOTBALL

FUN FRENCH LESSONS FOR CHILDREN

Classes across London The very best football coaching for toddlers and children aged from 18 months to 10 years, Kiddikicks is unique because it involves the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Join and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks football classes. There are also sporty birthday parties with a variety of themes for children aged three and up, private and holiday classes and nursery and after-school sessions. Sign up to receive your player’s free kit (registration fees apply). Quote BABY LONDON to receive a 5% discount.

020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk

Chelsea, Putney, Notting Hill and St John’s Wood/Maida Vale Club Petit Pierrot, London’s premier French club since 1993, has a unique approach and offers innovative, stimulating immersion programmes for children from eight months old.

Led by a team of passionate and qualified native teachers, children flourish and learn French effortlessly while having fun with a wide range of activities, including contemporary songs from its educational CD. Language experts agree that learning a second language early in life enhances overall cognitive skills and improves brain development.

020 7385 5565 admincpp@btconnect.com clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

ACTIVITIES

PRIVATE, BESPOKE ANTENATAL CLASSES Classes across London Pregnancy is an exciting and anxious period for every couple embarking on this journey, to help relieve the anxieties Eileithyia Limited has the class for you. Eileithyia is a midwife led company offering women and their partners private, one-to-one antenatal classes in the comfort of their own home. There is a range of unique and personalised, interactive classes from early pregnancy through to labour and birth, and finally caring for your newborn. Also available is private breastfeeding support and assistance in the first few days to enable you to feel confident right from the beginning. eileithyia.info@gmail.com eileithyia.co.uk

A REVOLUTIONARY FOREIGN LANGUAGE AND MUSIC PROGRAMME Spanish or French classes Imagine a programme for children combining music and a foreign language, Bilingual Beats’ programme is uniquely designed to ensure musical and language skills develop together in a fun and creative way.

The classes use live music, and children from newborns to five years learn to move rhythmically, sing, and develop listening and improvisation skills. Alongside, they’ll also acquire vocabulary and structures in a second language through playful and developmentally appropriate activities and games.

07561 393 932 or 07809 411 650 info@bilingualbeats.com bilingualbeats.com

FIRST AID FOR LIFE Every year over a million children are taken to Accident & Emergency following accidents in the home – it is vitally important that those caring for them know how to help.

First Aid for Life is an award-winning and fully regulated first aid training company and the leading provider of exemplary training in Greater London.

The trainers are highly experienced medical and emergency services professionals who will tailor the course to your needs.

First Aid for Life runs scheduled courses for individuals in Balham and Westminster, or a trainer will come and run a bespoke course at a time and place that suits you.

0208 675 4036 emma@firstaidforlife.org.uk firstaidforlife.org.uk

WATER BABIES This is the UK’s leading baby swimming company offering innovative baby swimming classes across London, taught by world-class instructors. Babies love being in the water, having fun and learning lifesaving skills.

Swimming from birth is natural, after all, they have just spent nine months in the womb! Water Babies’ multi-award-winning programme is structured yet gentle, and centred around the needs of each child. The results speak for themselves: “Our classes have saved at least eight children from drowning”.

NW London 020 8427 4012 NE London 020 8989 4821 N London 020 3617 8823 SE London 020 8858 5242 SW London 020 7585 1510

AWARD-WINNING AND INTERACTIVE CLASSES Gymboree’s commitment to quality is unsurpassed, and every day thousands of parents and carers across the UK choose them because they want the best for themselves and their children.

The team has a simple goal: to provide the best Play and Learn, Art and Music classes for newborn to five year olds in the world! With over 30 years of experience, the classes and activities are based on a blend of early childhood development theories, with years of hands-on experience.

Gymboree’s tried-and-tested formula with physical, social, sensory and imaginary elements make for 45 minutes of fun. Enjoy challenging and age-appropriate activities which help your little ones through the crucial early stages. Themes, props and setups change frequently.

Members also get exclusive access to Open Gym free play sessions on site. Little ones can bring any adult along with them to play in a clean, colourful and safe environment with purpose-built equipment. Art classes start from 18 months and let children be the artist. Selfexpression and creativity are inspired by painting, drawing, printing and more. Music classes run from ages six months onwards, using a global mix of language and genres, from ‘the classics’ to more modern sounds.

Sensory Baby Play classes start from newborn, and feature sensory and physical stimulation from a varied mix of props and activities. Little ones become attentive and interested in their growing understanding of the world with songs, tactile play, physical games and more.

Free trial classes available at: Bayswater and Notting Hill, Bromley, Chiswick, Clapham, Docklands, Ealing, East Dulwich, Hampstead, Harrow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Putney, Wandsworth and Wimbledon. gymboree-uk.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 151

COMPETITIONS

CHANCE TO WIN We bring you exclusive competitions selected for Baby London readers

Harlen wears organic cotton knickers, £5 (pack of two), John Lewis. Chelsea wears linen top, £45, A Day In A Life.

Mother’s Day Competition with Imagethirst Photography, worth £1,000 Treasure this Mother’s Day forever and win a £1,000 prize with Imagethirst Photography. The ‘Me & My Mummy’ package includes a £250 photo session and viewing at the company’s central London studio, £750 to spend on products, plus a £55 voucher for afternoon tea for two at Hush in Mayfair. The lucky winner will get to experience a shoot with the whole family, while 25 runners up will each receive a £345 voucher, which includes a studio session, private viewing and an A4 framed image. Competition closes 9am on Friday 4 March. imagethirst.com The winners will be chosen on 6 March and notified by phone. As with all appointment-based companies, terms and conditions apply; your afternoon tea voucher is given to you at the end of your viewing appointment. A fully refundable booking deposit to secure your session is payable at the booking stage, prize cannot be used with an existing Imagethirst session, and the prize is non-transferable. For full terms and conditions see website for details.

WRAP UP WITH THE MINKEY We’re giving away one of these innovative all-in-one Minkey garments to a Baby London reader. Now, your little one’s hat, scarf and gloves are now just one item!

The Minkey is essentially a balaclava hat with an attached polo-neck scarf that has two long-sleeved gloves attached, making it easier than ever to keep your child cosy and dry during the chillier days of spring. Available in three different designs, the winner can choose their favourite colour. Sizes start from newborn to four years. theolie.com

WIN A BABY BEAN BAG!

To show your baby just how much you love them, Metanium is giving away four Love Hearts Baby Bean bags (RRP £64) and a sample of Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion. The Bean Bag is designed to offer total comfort from birth to eight years old.

Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment has a unique double-action formula to provide daily protection from nappy rash, and is gentle enough to use every day, at each nappy change. It’s also available in a handy spray. Double-action Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash. metanium.co.uk

ENTER ONLINE AT BABYLONDON.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS 152 | MAR/APR 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

STOCKIST INFORMATION A Day In A Life Aravore Billieblush Bobby Rabbit Boden Bonpoint Brora Caramel Baby & Child Carrément Beau Chateau De Sable Childrensalon Elfie Gap Hucklebones Ikea John Lewis Jojo Maman Bebe Marks & Spencer Mothercare Next No Added Sugar Olivier Baby & Kids Patachou Petit Bateau Smallable Stella McCartney Kids The White Company

adayinalife.london aravore.com houseoffraser.co.uk bobbyrabbit.co.uk boden.co.uk bonpoint.com brora.co.uk caramel-shop.co.uk houseoffraser.co.uk chateaudesable.co.uk childrensalon.com elfielondon.com gap.co.uk hucklebones.co.uk/shop ikea.com johnlewis.com jojomamanbebe.co.uk marksandspencer.com mothercare.com next.co.uk noaddedsugar.com olivierbaby.com patachou.com petitbateau.co.uk en.smallable.com stellamccartney.com thewhitecompany.com

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Leading retailer of eco, ethical & premium baby brands.

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The White Rose Baby Boutique Uncomplicated • Beautiful • Simple • Natural Products Make the world around them beautiful Millhouse Chelsea Cooker Only £75.95

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Millhouse Race Track Toy Box & Desk Only £99.95

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To see our full range of ethical toys and clothes visit our website www.the-white-rose-baby-boutique.co.uk or for more information call +44 (0)7710 132241 / +44 (0)1732 529669 The White Rose Baby Boutique Ltd • 207 Regent Street • 3rd Floor • London W1B 3HH

SHOPPING

London

Boutiques A FIN E SELEC TION OF HAN D -PICKED LON DON BOUTIQU E S. H ER E’S OU R SHOPPING GUIDE

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2016 | 155

CARAMEL BABY & CHILD

Caramel’s gorgeous collection for newborn to 12 years manages to be both understatedly cool and adorably sweet at the same time. You’ll find a mix of trendy and timeless pieces for everyday dress, as well as for special occasions and there’s also a small but well-edited selection of toys and home décor pieces. Stop by their new store in Soho or their popup in Shoreditch for the ultimate experience in beautifully crafted, on-trend and luxurious children’s clothing.

STORES ACROSS LONDON caramel-shop.co.uk

TROTTERS

This iconic London based store offers a wide choice of children’s wear and acessories, excellent in quality, value and design. Exclusive, yet affordable; stylish yet traditional, and you won’t find their designs anywhere else. The family-run business first opened its doors in 1990 and has been delivering quality products for children aged 0 to 10 ever since, not forgetting their famous hairdressing service. With six stores across London, Trotters is never far away.

STORES ACROSS LONDON trotters.co.uk

MERINO KIDS

Merino Kids’ showroom, located in Northcote Road, is a breath of fresh air, bedecked with all things cute and cosy. The team at Merino Kids know how important sleep is to little ones; check out their award-winning Go Go Bag and Cocooi swaddle baby wraps. From the fabric to the finish, their collection is internationally renowned for its quality. If you’re looking for silky soft, light, kind-to-delicate-skin sleepwear, Merino Kids is the perfect solution.

151 NORTHCOTE ROAD, BATTERSEA, LONDON SW11 6QB merinokids.co.uk

SERAPHINE

The Seraphine story began back in 2002, with the opening of their flagship boutique on Kensington High Street. Providing stylish, high quality maternity fashion, they have dressed everyone from A-List stars to a certain pregnant royal. As well as their main line, Seraphine Luxe was launched a few years ago, providing women with a wider choice of luxurious maternity occasion wear, as well as offering bespoke design services for exclusive international clientele. .

179 HIGH STREET KENSINGTON, LONDON W8 6SH seraphine.com

PURE BABY

Shopping at Pure Baby is a treat: its beautifully bright and airy store is the perfect hub for hosting a variety of eclectic collections. The Fulham Road boutique offers toys, feeding essentials and baby clothing from classic formalwear to modern, everyday outfits from a variety of designers. It promotes British brands, such as Bonnie Baby and Toffee Moon, but also gives a nod to international fashion with the likes of clothing from Tartine et Chocolat and Il Gufo.

208 FULHAM ROAD, LONDON SW10 9PJ purebaby.co.uk

IGLOO KIDS

We know that being a parent can be so much more than a little hectic, but busy family life is made that bit easier with the help of Igloo – the one-stop wonder for just about anything and everything. The vast array of goods and products is what makes Igloo brilliant. From ballet shoes to balloons, puppets to pyjamas and stationery to skiwear, they cover everything from school kit to holiday wear. Stop running up and down the high street and head to Igloo instead.

STORES ACROSS LONDON iglookids.co.uk

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SHOPPING

JOJO MAMAN BÉBÉ

With their competitively priced yet superb range, Jo Maman Bébé has everything you could possibly need for young family life; maternity wear, baby and children’s wear, toys, home décor and all the pieces in between. Whether you’re hunting down some mini snow boots for a family skiing holiday or a practical toy storage solution, you’ll find it here. With ‘drawing areas’ to keep your little one’s occupied, shopping can finally be enjoyable for all the family!

STORES ACROSS LONDON jojomamanbebe.co.uk

JACADI

French baby and childrenswear label Jacadi was created in 1976 and has since established itself as an international brand with stores worldwide. Popular with celebrities, Jacadi believes in passing down heritage and timeless fashion in the French tradition to younger generations. As a result, its baby clothes are elegant and eclectically beautiful; stylish, but also a celebration of youth.

The latest addition recently opened its doors in Hampstead – happy shopping!

39 KING’S ROAD, SW3 4NB | WESTFIELD, SHEPHERD’S BUSH, W12 7GF | 29 HAMPSTEAD HIGH STREET, NW3 1QA jacadi.com

RACHEL RILEY

MORI

MORI is a baby clothing and accessory label and the collection includes luxury essentials, such as sleep suits, body suits, blankets, hats and booties, made from bamboo, cotton and cashmere.

Created using the uncomplicated aesthetic of tasteful Scandinavian and Japanese designs, the garments are made from the purest fabrics, using trusted manufacturers. MORI parcels make the perfect gift, and can be ordered as a one-off or as part of a subscription.

Babymori.com

FANCY KIDS

The people at Fancy Kids believe there need not be a trade off between eco-friendliness and style; packed with characterful fashion, toys and lifestyle accessories, everything here is organically produced and of the highest quality. You can shop from a wide range of independent designers for children up to 10 years old, and the boutique will ship worldwide.

Every product is just as ethical as it is beautiful, so you can indulge your little ones without an ounce of guilt. fancykids.com

ON LIN E

Tootsa MacGinty believes in making clothes that children will love to wear and as a result, create the quirkiest and most colourful apparel around. Its clothes refuse to conform, with eccentric prints splashed with colour and a trademark attention to detail, like sweaters shaped into animal’s faces or cartoons. They’re designed so that kids can run, jump and play and feel comfortable all day long.

Tootsamacginty.com

ON LIN E

TOOTSA MACGINTY

ON LIN E

Rachel Riley’s traditionally-inspired looks are for girls, boys, infants and mamas are beautifully crafted and feature hand-embroidery and vintage prints. And we’re spoilt in London with two Rachel Riley boutiques to choose from, both charming and gorgeously stocked. These boutiques are the perfect place if you’re looking for something that little bit special.

82 MARYLEBONE HIGH STREET, W1U 4QW 14 PONT STREET, SW1X 9EN rachelriley.co.uk

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YOUR SHOPPING

emporium

Personalised Garlands Personalised children’s clocks Only £2.00 letter made in per Britain plus p+p

Artistic. Relaxed. Timeless. www.littletimbers.co.uk

Horkesley Joinery Ltd Bespoke Wooden • Stair Gates • Fire Guards • Stair Refurbs

tel: 01234 589383 web: www.littletimbers.co.uk

richmond practice 35,9$7( '2&7256µ 6(59,&(

The family doctor.

Redefined.

01206 271 509 horkesleyjoinery@hotmail.co.uk www.horkesleyjoinery.co.uk

The Fine Cotton Company Soft to the touch, kind on your conscience

GP · Paediatrician · Gynaecologist

020 8940 5009 Organic bedding & accessories for children & babies

www.thefinecottoncompany.com 158 | MAR/APR 2016 | babylondon.co.uk

Clinical excellence hassle-free

Modern Antenatal Classes

BUMP & BABY

CLUB

London www.bumpandbabyclub.com

EMPORIUM

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

Expert Parenting Advice and Support for those early years

Sleep Training Routines Weaning Potty Training Toddler Behaviour Breastfeeding Support “Heidi was completely invaluable in getting our 4 month old sleeping during the day & night. I cannot imagine where we would be now without having user her—worth every single penny—Mrs Green, SW6”

NEW for 2016 Night Nannies now available….

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www.theparentandbabycoach.com Call 0330 6600 204 info@theparentandbabycoach.com www.theparentandbabycoach.com

BUSINESS The Duchess of Cambridge was spotted wearing an engraved Merci Maman necklace

Béatrice’s goal was to make stylish personalised jewelley available woldwide

INSPIRE

What inspired you to set up Merci Maman?

In 2007, I was looking for a personalised birthday gift for my daughter. The only place I was able to find it was a shop in France, but the owner wouldn’t ship it to the UK. So, I decided to create a UK-based platform that would ship stylish, personalised jewellery and gifts worldwide.

Two months later, I started selling my hand-engraved jewellery and embroidered gifts at school fairs and it grew from there.

Describe a typical day.

I start by having breakfast with my family. It’s really important for us to begin the day in good spirits. Then I do the school run, dropping off my three girls. I arrive in the office at 9am and check my emails while the orders are prepared for production. The rest of the morning is spent in meetings to follow up on various projects. We usually take a lunch break as a team. At 3pm, I pick up my children and spend the afternoon taking them to their activities and helping with their homework. In the evening, I get back to work and reply to emails.

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BÉATRICE DE MONTILLE The mum-of-four and founder of jewellery company Merci Maman tells us how she makes life work How do you juggle your career and family?

I have managed to surround myself with talented people, and have found a good balance by working part time and keeping a leadership role in the company.

My husband is part of the Merci Maman team, too, so we rely on each other. I also have a wonderful nanny, who works part time in the office and part time at home, so she can take over when I’m needed for meetings.

How did you feel when the Duchess of Cambridge wore one of your necklaces?

I remember that day like it was yesterday! A friend of mine called me, she had just spotted a photo of Kate wearing our necklace on a blog. I couldn’t believe it! I contacted my team to share the news and then we met to think about what it meant, and how it might impact business. Luckily, we had time to prepare for what followed – orders for the Duchess’s necklace hit an all-time peak. That day, our company took a massive international path, and we doubled the team over the following six months.

What is your advice for anyone wanting to start a business?

Organise yourself, surround yourself with talented people and build strong relationships.

Béatrice started hand-engraving jewellery at her kitchen table in 2007

Husband Arnaud is also part of the Merci Maman team

Be open to different ideas and points of view, while still retaining your own personal values. Finally, always listen to your potential customers; they will give you the best guidelines from which to grow your business.

What’s the best Mother’s Day gift you’ve ever received?

It was a print of a personalised illustration from Charlotte du Jour. It’s a comic representation of me multitasking – I’m holding one of my daughters in one arm and my phone and cup of coffee in the other. It’s very sentimental as my husband designed it with Charlotte, who also created our Merci Maman logo.

Can you let us in on any plans for 2016?

We are opening our first overseas studio in Paris! After the UK, France is our second largest marketplace, so it made sense to open an office there. In the UK, we will continue to grow through innovations, great customer service and fast delivery. bl mercimamanboutique.com

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