Baby November 2019

DOUBLE ACT

CAROLE MIDDLETON’S TOP PARTY TIPS FOR TWINS

SITTING PRETTY

THE BEST HIGHCHAIRS

WE TEST DRIVE

SILVER CROSS WAVE, REVIEWED

DREAMY

décor

WE REVEAL THE MOST INSTA-WORTHY NURSERIES

BABY GADGETS

THE COOLEST PARENTING PRODUCTS

Plan ahead WITH OUR

FREE 64-PAGE

SCHOOLS GUIDE INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Cosy COMFORTS The Interiors Issue

£4.40

The sweetest looks for mum & baby

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NEW SEASON TRENDS

0 to 2,3 ay £ id TH ol R yh O

CHOOSING YOUR BIRTH PARTNER

PA R E N TI N G M AGA Z I N E

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NOVEMBER 2019 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

il S W am O af D A RB BA

baby T H E LUXU RY P R EG N A N C Y &

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

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

THE ALL-NEW

CARBON FIBRE STROLLER

mytrax™ flex signature Welcome to a luxurious world of warmly woven quilted fabrics; aged cognac leatherette touches; and an elite, high brilliance carriage chassis; all exquisitely crafted to make memories of each moment with baby last forever.

A SIMPLY TIMELESS 2IN1 SYSTEM WITH THE FINEST OF FOLDS.

joiebaby.com/signature in-seat suspension for up to a 50% smoother stroll

Available from Argos, Boots, Halfords, John Lewis, Mamas & Papas, Mothercare, Very and all good independent nursery retailers.

CONTENTS N OVEM BER 2019

FEATURES

50 GOOD AS DUNST Hollywood actress Kirsten Dunst opens up to Karen Overton about her first year of motherhood 54 GO, GO GADGET The innovative products that are guaranteed to make parents’ lives – and baby’s – that little bit easier 58 BEHIND THE BRAND: CAM CAM COPENHAGEN Kate Freud meets the founder of the Scandi-inspired interiors brand 63 PARTY TIME: TWIN BIRTHDAY Carole Middleton offers her tips for throwing a party that’s twice as nice 66 PARTNER UP...

Martha Alexander looks at the important responsibility of being a birth partner 78 #HASHTAGHAVENS Interiors guru Ali Howard goes on an Insta hunt for the coolest nurseries 80 PLAYING IT SAFE Emma Hammett provides a room-by-room guide to keeping your little one safe at home

Kirsten Dun st reveals w hy motherh is her most ood rewarding role to date (p.50)

STYLE

40 HOME COMFORTS Chunky layering and cosy knits steal the show, as Next reveals its sweetest autumn baby collection to date 48 AHEAD OF THE CURVE Antonia O’Brien shares her favourite maternity fashion finds

PHOTOGRAPHY: JONATHAN MALPASS

SHOPPING

23 BABY LOVES Celebrate 20 years of The Gruffalo with the gorgeous new bedtime collection from Mori 25 SHOP THE THEMES Say hello to autumn with this season’s latest offerings

FOOD & TRAVEL

83 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest edible treats for babies, toddlers and parents

58 84 TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS Alice Fotheringham shares a few seasonal dishes for baby 89 TRAVEL NEWS The hottest new escapes and products for young families 90 POSTCARD FROM SOUTH OF FRANCE Kate Freud enjoys an extended family break in this sunny climate Be inspired by our pick of new-season baby buys on p.25

92 THE GREAT ESCAPE Beat those autumnal blues with a getaway that even baby will love

REGULARS

15

19

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small WIN! A HOLIDAY TO BARBADOS Here’s how you can win a seven-night family trip worth £2,300

baby-magazine.co.uk | 5

92 EDITORIAL Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Editor-at-Large Kate Freud Editor Rebecca Moore Sub Editor Natalie Keeler Freelance Sub Editor Sally Jones Editorial Assistant Henrietta Easton Digital Content Producer Ruby Norris

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West

DESIGN Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Freelance Designer Matt Bookman

PUBLISHING Chairman Paul Dobson Chief Operating Officer Kevin Petley Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin Director of Media James Dobson Circulation Manager Daniel Webb EA to Chairman Sarah Porter

ADVERTISING Sales Director Cameron Hay Head of Market Julie Price Senior Sales Executive Miranda Gyamfi Ma Sales Executive Emma Cain

20 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you busy this month 33 MY ESSENTIALS We chat to blogger and author Louise Pentland about birth experiences and her favourite baby brands 36 STYLISH READS Emma O’Donovan rounds up the best-looking reads for baby’s bookshelf 38 INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION Nutritionist and mum-of-one Charlotte Stirling-Reed talks meals, motherhood and the power of social media 47 LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month 52 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus we put the Silver Cross Wave to the test 65 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS From skincare to baby tech, these are the latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing

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CHELSEA CREATE Managing Director Steve Ross Partnerships Director Lyndal Beeton Baby is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: baby-magazine.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 Email: baby@chelseamagazines.com

YouTube star Lo uise Pentland reveals her top parent ing essentials (p .33)

69 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert advises on preparing for birth once you’re on maternity leave 71 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Professor Amy Brown offers guidance on breastfeeding while out and about 73 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt discuss returning to work after maternity leave 74 THE REVIEW About to tackle weaning? Laura Mason rounds up the ultimate highchair choices 77 INTERIOR NEWS These are the stylish nursery updates we’re coveting this month 94 NURSERY NEWS What’s going on in early years and beyond, from pre-school initiatives to the latest educational toys 96 BOUTIQUES Our pick of the most beautiful baby boutiques nationwide 98 INSPIRE We meet Katy Parkinson, founder of Folk Interiors, to talk female role models, nursery inspo and timeless interiors

BABY (print) ISSN 2516-5178 BABY (online) ISSN 2517-813X | 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 2019 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHY: JONATHAN MALPASS Aria wears bow turban, £4. Frill collar bodysuit, from £10 (pack of two). Sleepsuit, from £16 (pack of three). Hamilton chair, £274 (set of two). Grass in wicker basket, £35.

Cashmere throw, £200. All from Next.

Treat your walls to Earthborn Our luxurious eco paint helps your walls breathe. So you can create beautiful spaces that are healthier for you and your home.

Come and find out more at earthbornpaints.co.uk

Colours shown: Hippo Hooray, Daisy Chain

Baby alpaca romper £103, oeufnyc.com

Cosy days at home means plenty of play is on the cards. A squidgy playmat will keep bumps at bay Playmat £65, gusandbeau.com

EDITORS

LETTER

@BabyMagazineUK

@baby_mag_insta

VISIT •

@BabyMagazineUK

AG

M

#babymagishere

P-TO-DAT

E,

K

We’d love to see pics of you and your bump, or baby, with our current issue

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• B A B Y-

Gaia rocking chair £400, next.co.uk

REBECCA MOORE, EDITOR

.U

Oyoy wall rug £89, folkinteriors.co.uk

A Z I N E .C

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Baby Oaty Bubbles £4, childsfarm.com

Perhaps this time of year sees you returning to work after a glorious stretch of maternity leave. In this issue, sisters and Bump Class founders Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt are talking ‘back to work’; flick to page 73 to find out your rights and take comfort in their trusty guidance. Or maybe you’re at the very start of your maternity leave and wondering how best to spend your days?

Panic not. Zita West has got you covered with her expert advice on page 69.

If you are gearing up for labour, no doubt you’ve mused over your birth partner. If you’re in the middle of making your selection, be sure to check out Martha Alexander’s Partner Up feature on page 66 – or you may want to leave this page open for the lucky chosen one!

And lastly, if, like me, you’re dreaming of a slice of long-haul luxury, head straight to page 19 where you could win a family trip to the Tamarind resort in balmy Barbados. Enjoy!

KEE

Liewood knitted toy £32.95, scandiborn.co.uk

I love this time of year, as the trees put on a new coat, there’s a chill in the air and layering up becomes commonplace. And it’s the perfect time to snuggle up with baby, so we’ve dedicated this edition to the home, with our special interiors issue.

And what sweeter room to start with than baby’s very own space. Social media is awash with #nurseryinspo, from all things bright and beautiful, to stripped back Scandi style. Interiors guru Ali Howard has been on the Insta hunt for the very coolest nurseries around; find your favourite on page 78.

Of course, decorating the nursery is the fun part, but once baby is on the move, the whole house becomes a playground.

Safety expert Emma Hammett has provided a room-by-room guide on simple steps to make your home not only baby friendly, but safe, too, on page 80.

A company that knows a thing or two about beautifying your home is Scandinavian brand Cam Cam Copenhagen. As it continues to enchant nurseries across the globe, our Editor-at-Large, Kate Freud, got a chance to catch up with founder Sara Giese Camre to find out more. Read all about it on page 58.

@baby_magazine_uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 9

Where were you born?

A village called Kibworth, which is in Leicestershire.

The best thing about autumn?

For me, the best thing has to be the changing colours of the trees.

What’s your favourite room in the house?

Our new family room, where we can all cook and play!

See Jonathan’s cute and cosy baby photoshoot on p.40

MART HA

NDER , JO UR E XA AL

T LIS NA

JONA TH

LPASS, PHO MA T

ER APH

LIST NA

Where were you born?

Tunbridge Wells.

The best thing about autumn?

Kicking through the leaves on our way to the playground with a flask of hot chocolate in hand.

What’s your favourite room in the house?

The bathroom – for its luxurious sanctuary.

A space I totally took for granted before I had children.

Check out Ali’s nursery round-up on p.78

AN

GR O

NTERIORS J D, I O R A

UR

ALI H OW

CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

St Thomas’ Hospital in Lambeth.

The best thing about autumn?

Wearing tights again!

What’s your favourite room in the house?

I love my daughter’s bedroom, which, like her, is small, bright and full of fun. She has a salon wall full of pictures of robins, a little clothes rail and soon, a Big Girl Bed. Martha explores the important role of a birthing partner on p.66

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

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O .U K

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KEEP U P

BABY O NL INE

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YM A G A ZI N

We talk all things pregnancy and parenting

Go online to check out our fabulous competitions

The latest news in baby world to keep parents in the know

!

D L I M E B BORN T O

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAURA HARRIS

WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY HERE? UPLOAD YOUR FAVOURITE SNAP AT BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK/BABY-OF-THE-MONTH Entries close at 11:59pm on 19 September 2019.

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COOLER FOR S R E L O O P G N I SWIMM o, conditioner po am sh a ed n bi m co ve we’ packed full of ’s at th e n o in h as w and body wash off chlorine lp he to s nt ie ed gr in natural from head to toe. suitable for It’s so mild, it’s even FOR PEOPLE FE SA D AN IN SK ve ti si n se ECZEMA. WHO MAY BE PRONE TO ch ilds farm .co m

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B • BA

NEWS

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baby

NEWS

YM A G A ZI N

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

143 YEARS LATER…

Renowned nursery brand Silver Cross has just launched its first-ever baby clothing collection, after 143 years. The range continues the brand’s ethos for high-quality craftsmanship, functionality and timeless style, with wardrobe essentials for little ones up until aged two in neutral colours and soft fabrics. You’ll find floral dresses, knitted dungaree sets and baby grows, as well as snowsuits with detachable mittens and booties, to keep baby warm on the slopes this winter. From £10, silvercrossbaby.com

THE NUMBER OF PARENTS CLAIMING SHARED PARENTAL PAY HAS INCREASED BY 73% BETWEEN 2016 AND 2019.

RESEARCHERS BELIEVE THIS IS DUE TO THE INCREASING NUMBER OF FATHERS TAKING LEAVE DURING THE FIRST YEAR, AS MORE PARENTS BECOME AWARE OF THE CHILD DEVELOPMENT BENEFITS THIS CAN HAVE. BIRMINGHAM.AC.UK

baby-magazine.co.uk | 15

NEWS

You’re a wizard baby!

Enchant and comfort your little one with aden + anais’ special limited-edition Harry Potter collection. Pass on the magic to your baby in the softest way with the babywear brand’s range of magical muslins printed with imagery from one of the greatest stories of all time.

Designs include Harry’s lightning scar, Hedwig in flight and even the Golden Snitch. But act quickly; these will sell out quicker than you can say Hogwarts. adenandanais.co.uk, £21.95

ONE-STOP SHOP

Next has launched an exciting newborn shop – soon to become a go-to for expectant and new parents. Fulfilling all of your parenting needs with products from trusted, reliable and stylish brands, expect to see pieces for pregnancy right up until your little one is sat at the table in a highchair! Next’s collection of cots, carriers and pushchairs and more will smoothly carry you through your parenting journey. Plus, selected items have next-day delivery available, ideal for those last-minute buys. From £39, next.co.uk

DENIM CHIC

Maternity fashion brand Seraphine has introduced a fabulous selection of stylish jumpsuits, including the brand’s first-ever denim dungarees. Having received an overwhelming number of requests for this ever-popular style, Seraphine happily stepped up to the mark with this pair.; the ideal all-inone outfit for pregnancy, requiring minimum effort and achieving maximum effect. £59, seraphine.com

POTTERY BARN KIDS’ COLOURFUL AUTUMN COLLECTION FEATURES AN ARRAY OF BED LINENS, INTERIORS, TOYS AND BATHROOM ACCESSORIES PATTERNED WITH FUN AND VIBRANT MOTIFS TO SUIT EVERY TASTE, INCLUDING UNICORNS, DINOSAURS, BUTTERFLIES AND AEROPLANES. POTTERYBARNKIDS.CO.UK

DESIGNER DOLLS

Minikane dolls have been given a new wardrobe, thanks to Smallable and its team of designers. Made sustainably using fabric off-cuts from brands such as Emile et Ida and Le Petit Lucas du Tertre, 945 limited-edition dolls are wearing stylish outfits.

A percentage of the profits from every doll sold will go to French charity Un Enfant par la Main, supporting education, nutrition and the fight against violence. £90, en.smallable.com

16 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Hero products

Scamp & Dude, a brand for grown-ups and children, was created after founder Jo had life-changing surgery; she wanted to make clothes that gave kids extra security when they’re apart from loved ones. With a ‘Superpower Button’ embroidered on the sleeve and the slogan ‘A Superhero has my back’, the sweatshirts and leggings are meant to give little wearers a boost. From £28, johnlewis.com

NEWS

Lori writes openly about the wild – and sometimes grizzly – adventures of being a mum

WORKING GIRL

Take your office by storm with J Crew and Hatch’s limited-edition maternity capsule wardrobe, offering stylish workwear for women who don’t want to be excluded from the fashion world just because they’re pregnant. The designs are flattering and cater to a changing body shape. You’ll easily be the best dressed in your office for your entire pregnancy. From £67, jcrew.com and hatchcollection.com

Feeling Sheepish?

Sweet Dreamers, makers of sleep-aid ewan, has just upped its game with ewan Deluxe, featuring a calming SHUSH sound, created using a real human voice. His pink glow and real-life heartbeat recording also mimics the comfort of the womb, calming the fussiest of babies. His MoonMode smartCRY sensor will activate when baby stirs in the night, so that baby can fall back to sleep without parents needing to get up. £39.99, sweetdreamers.co.uk

PAINT PERFECT

Earthborn paints are eco-friendly and free from nasty fumes, oils, vinyls and acrylics, making them ideal for pregnant mums and newborns. They were the first in the UK to carry the EU ecolabel and have the Safety of Toys standard. Use them to paint walls and furniture in children’s rooms; kids and parents alike will love the great colours. Plus they’re better for the planet. From 31.50, earthbornpaints.co.uk

BEST OF THE BLOGS

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

WILD & GRIZZLY This blog is written by Bristol-based creative consultant Lori, wife to Paul and mum to little Felix and baby Romi. She describes it as ‘where Mama meets cool’ and sees it as a place where she can embrace style and design with her family. Her Instagram feed documents her family’s life in the city, with a focus on interiors, photography, travel, food and drink. Lori aims to write honestly about the wild adventures that motherhood brings, as well as the slightly grizzly bits. wildandgrizzly.com

THE ANA MUM DIARY A sweet, funny and heart-warming family and lifestyle blog by Amanda, mother of polar opposite sister’s Nia and Ava, and wife of a very tall husband. Her award-winning blog incorporates interiors, food, fashion, beauty, family-friendly and her daughters’ obsession with all things Disney.

Amanda dishes out tips on everything from saving money, landscape gardening, painting, to mental health. Amanda also runs We Blog Travel, which is also worth a read. theanamumdiary.co.uk

UBER KID Mum-of-five Chloe started her family lifestyle blog back in 2013 after her fourth baby. She now has a sixth on the way! With a focus on fashion, travel and interiors, Chloe manages to transform the inevitable chaos and madness of a big family into an oh-so-fashionable and fun-filled lifestyle blog. She also has one of the most aesthetically pleasing Instagram feeds we’ve ever seen! With tips on the best children’s fashion, interior brands and household management. uberkid.net

baby-magazine.co.uk | 17

NEWS

e

o

KATE FREUD Editor-at-large

I

f you have a special occasion coming up, look no further than Mamas & Papas for the kids, where you’ll find plenty of knockout outfits like this adorable bow tie romper.

Aside from the occasionwear, there’s beautiful heritage designs for the girls – we’re talking ruffle collars, bows and Fair Isle knits – and snappy dungarees, check shirts and raincoats for the boys with soft pastel shades for baby. Available from newborn to age four.

The muted tones and adorable bow tie on this Mamas & Papas romper make it the perfect choice for weddings or parties. £22, mamasandpapas.com

SOFTLY TO SLEEP

What a clever idea from Silky Tots to create a range of bedding for babies and children that offers all the benefits of sleeping on silk. You can avoid those terrible tangles in toddlers and (quite adorable) bald spots in small babies, as well as making sure baby’s temperature is regulated.

The range is also hypoallergenic and dust mite repellent.

CHEW ON THIS

Give your little one something extra-special to chew on with the colourful Teething Pacifier Clips from January Moon. Not only do the kid-friendly designs look great, but they are non-toxic, easy to clean and promote sensory play for baby.

Once baby’s slept on Silky Tots’ sumptuous silk bedding in shades of grey and pale pink, nothing else will do. Prices from £40, silkytots.com

HIGH KICKS

There’s nothing cuter than baby’s first pair of kicks, particularly when they’re mini Converse. We’re loving the colourful new range of unisex trainers, perfectly designed to add a style punch to any outfit, and easy to get on and off with a pull-back fastening.

Start your kids’ trainer journey on the right foot with these adorable Converse for babies.

Available from size 2, £18, office.co.uk

These January Moon teething clips will appeal to parents’ aesthetic sensibilities and baby’s gummy needs. £19.16, thetot.com

LET’S GET SOCIAL… There are plenty of ways to get the lowdown on all things Baby

ONLINE

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18 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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PINTEREST

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WIN!

COMPETITION

A MY 1ST VACATION PACKAGE AT TAMARIND IN BARBADOS Tamarind is located on the beautiful Platinum West Coast of the island

B

arbados-based Elegant Hotels Group has collaborated with personalised gift brand My 1st Years to launch a new seven-night, all-inclusive package, My 1st Vacation. Available from November, My 1st Vacation has been designed for families with pre-schoolers to offer a first holiday experience like no other. Available at Elegant’s three award-winning family properties, Tamarind, Crystal Cove and Turtle Beach.

The all-inclusive My 1st Vacation package caters to families the moment their feet touch Bajan soil with a private two-way transfer to and from the airport. Once you’ve arrived, a My 1st Year welcome gift with personalised bag, teddy and hooded towel will be waiting for little guests in their room, as well as a cookie and welcome drink at check-in.

Plus, no beach holiday would be complete without a bucket and spade and the hotel’s beach care package will see that they have all the essentials to build sandcastles galore.

Children aged three and over will also revel in the Flying Fish Kids Club, with a wealth of activities on offer such as sand art, jewellery crafts, T-shirt-making and more. Be sure to enjoy some downtime, too, though, as new for 2020 is a weekly storytime session for famillies to hear stories that inspire and depict the Caribbean lifestyle.

The My 1st Vacation experience will also offer parents the chance to take a few nights off with a complimentary babysitting service, between 7-9pm, giving grown-ups the chance to enjoy dinner at one of the property’s exquisite restaurants. To celebrate the launch, we’re giving away a My 1st Vacation family holiday to the luxurious Tamarind resort, which opens as a newly-

WORTH £2,300

converted premium all-inclusive destination from 1 October. The stunning beachfrontresort will transform into one of the island’s finest family-friendly, all-inclusive properties, focusing on delicious cuisine and exciting adventures. Enhancing its family offering, Tamarind will enrich its entertainment, activities and children’s programmes, while also extending the hours of the hugely popular kids’ club.

Blending Mediterranean and Caribbean style, Tamarind offers 101 spacious hotel rooms and suites, each with a balcony or patio overlooking the oceanfront or tropical gardens. As well as the kids’ club, families can enjoy the Club Tamarind family lounge, and complimentary water sports. With on-site restaurants, two family pools, a spa, themed evenings and a portfolio of on and off-site activities, this is sure to be a holiday to remember! Good luck! eleganthotels.com

To enter, visit baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions TERMS AND CONDITIONS: FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED. THE WINNER WILL RECEIVE A SEVEN-NIGHT ALL-INCLUSIVE STAY IN AN ENTRY LEVEL ROOM, BASED ON TWO ADULTS AND ONE UNDER FIVE YEAR OLD SHARING A ROOM, WITH TWO COMPLIMENTARY BABYSITTING SESSIONS. TRANSFERS TO AND FROM BARBADOS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FOR TWO ADULTS AND ONE CHILD AGED UNDER FIVE YEARS OLD ARE INCLUDED. COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 8 OCTOBER. THE PRIZE IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND IS NON-NEGOTIABLE, NON-TRANSFERABLE AND HAS NO CASH VALUE. BLACK OUT DATES APPLY. A TOURISM FEE IS PAYABLE ON ARRIVAL AND IS NOT INCLUDED AS PART OF THE PRIZE. SEE ONLINE FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 19

28 NOVEMBER

#Mamaste

Parents jetting off to Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, in Vietnam, are in for a treat; from today until 2 December, the hotel will be hosting a Mindfulness Retreat to help guests tune out everyday stresses.

With little ones at the Chuon Chuon Kids’ Club, you’ll be free to relax in peace! fourseasons.com

Independent Schools Show

NOVEMBER 4 FEELING FESTIVE?

Get some of your shopping done early at The Spirit of Christmas Fair at Kensington Olympia. Held from today until 10 November, you’ll find gifts, fashion, homeware, baby gear, plus plenty of stylish decorations for your tree. Tickets from £20.50, spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk

dates for your

5 SPARKS FLY

The most illuminating night of the year, with events taking place across the UK, including Battersea Park, Nottingham Racecourse and Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens. It’s set to be a chilly one, so make sure baby is wrapped up warm; we love these cute little mittens!

Wool mittens £8, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

8 IN TUNE

Introduce your mini Mozart to the magical world of classical music at Bach to Baby Family Concert in

DIARY

Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy this month Chelmsford this morning.

Little ones are free to dance, roam about and revel at the live music, all performed by professional musicians.

From £10, bachtobaby.com

9 GET THE

KNOWLEDGE

30 NOVEMBER

Story time

With a limited run until 5 January 2020, watch Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s picture book, The Snail and the Whale, come to life on stage.

The show, which tells the story of a sea snail and a humpback whale, is filled with live music and lots of laughs. From £15, snailandthewhalelive.com

20 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth – A Special Edition £16.99, HarperCollins

Have your questions answered at the Independent Schools Show, which returns to Battersea Evolution this weekend. Kicking off from 10am, there’ll be talks from experts in the sector, too; pre-register online for free tickets. schoolsshow.co.uk

14 SPACED OUT

A special edition of Oliver Jeffers’ Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth goes on sale today. Inside

you’ll find a spectacular giant fold-out poster – the ideal gift for welcoming a newborn into the world! £16.99, HarperCollins

18 TAKE

A BRAKE

Schools and nurseries will be raising awareness for Road Safety Week from today.

Organised by road safety charity Brake, the campaign aims to teach people to be more careful on the UK’s busy roads.

Register online for a free action pack. roadsafetyweek.org.uk

23 WEANING WONDERS

Ready to start baby on solids? Learn which foods

to offer and avoid at the Weaning Workshop at St James Childrens Centre in Birkenhead, Merseyside.

Starting at 10am, parents will be given tips on establishing a nutritionally balanced diet. £15, eventbrite.co.uk

30 JOLLY

GOOD SHOW

Head to Birmingham’s NEC today for the Baby To Toddler Show, where big-name brands and not-on-the-high-street boutiques will be exhibiting. Browse the latest pushchairs and furniture from the likes of Stokke and Bugaboo. babytotoddler events.co.uk

OXO tot spoon set £6, amazon.co.uk

Time for the little things

luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk

LOVE S

This soft, sustainable sleepwear marks the birthday of a much-loved book

BE DTIME STORY Take a stroll through the deep dark wood with a special collection from award-winning baby brand Mori, to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of everyone’s favourite monster. Made from the softest organic cotton and bamboo fabric, it is the perfect babywear for those precious bedtime stories. T-shirts, sleepsuits and sleeping bags feature beautiful illustrations of the brave brown mouse and even the Gruffalo himself, with his knobbly knees, turned-out toes and poisonous wart on the end of his nose…

From £18, babymori.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 23

SHOPPING

Knitted cardigan £62, arseneetlespipelettes.com

Knitted vest £69, emileetida.com

IN T

HE LOO

From a selection at oeufnyc.com

CLOSE TO HOME

P

Sebra rattle £13, nubie.co.uk

Brace your little ones for cooler weather with the cutest clothes and accessories guaranteed to keep them cosy

Moses basket £79.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

Ocarro x Moon pushchair £899, mamasandpapas.com

Dress knitting kit £29.99, woolcouturecompany.com

Cashmere blanket £300, mariechantal.co.uk

Knitted booties £22, lacoquetakids.co.uk

Knitted jumpsuit £19.99, zara.com

Sebra pull-along Dino £40, nubie.co.uk

Knitted onesie £86, oeufnyc.com

Bakker Made With Love leggings £39, melijoe.com

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SHOPPING

HT LIN

ENS

LIG Bouncer Bliss £149.99, babybjorn.co.uk

Tartine et Chocolat cardigan £70, melijoe.com

Cotton cot bed duvet cover £40, islaandwilbur.com

Cotton top £29, anywarekids.com

Your little one will love playing in this cool canopy

Linen onesie £63, velveteenclothing.com

Linen knickerbockers £94, pepaandcompany.com

Buddy & Hope at alexandalexa.com

Leander Linea cot £328.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Linen overalls £75, melijoe.com

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Cybex parasol £60, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Lapin animal head £105, hibouhome.com

Linen baby shoes £13.99, loveroo.co.uk

Lille cotton cocoon £46, dawnandday.com

C

AN

DINA

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A chair for life

Designed by: Peter Opsvik

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INTRODUCING THE NEW

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Tripp Trapp® The chair that grows with the child™

@stokkebaby | #chairforlife

SHOPPING

Babyzen Yoyo+ newborn pack £190, johnlewis.com

Plush sweater £36, emileetida.com

Nobodinoz sleeping bag £53, en.smallable.com

Faux sheep fur jacket £129, stellamccartney.com

Zhoe & Tobiah fleece snowsuit £76, en.smallable.com

Smart baby towel £32.95, babytolove.com

Cotton-fleece pjyamas £18, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Fleece gilet from £20, boden.com

Denim-fleece jacket £82, louislouise.com

Available at jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Ugg booties £45, childrensalon.com

CE FRI

FLEE

ENDS Paz Rodriguez car seat footmuff £178, childrensalon.com

A soft towelled dressing gown – complete with a hood and ears – makes bedtime fun

Fleece toy £48, jellycat.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 29

SHOPPING

Dress your sleeping beauty in plush warming fabrics

Olivier Baby velvet romper £26.50, rosesandthestars.com

Cord trousers £69.99, bonnetapompon.com Louise Misha at en.smallable.com

T TOUC

H VELVE Velvet cot bed £349, babymore.co.uk

Velvet slippers £75, charlotteolympia.com

Velvet jacket £72, vildhouseoflittle.com

Nattou teddy £15, kidly.co.uk

Rachel Riley velvet dress £199, childrensalon.com

Jabadabado babygym toys £20, kidly.co.uk

Roly Pony velvet dress £45, melijoe.com

Bold Monkey sofa £969, cuckooland.com

Bonton velvet jumpsuit £85, en.smallable.com

Numero 74 velvet cushion £22, mollymeg.com

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INTERVIEW

Louise likes to go to town when it comes to buying clothes for her girls Cotton dress from £13, next.com

Louise with Liam , a “doting dad” to daughters Darc y and Pearl Darcy and Pearl are becoming playmates

MY ESSENTIALS You’re best known for your YouTube channel, which now has over two million followers.

How has it been to watch the parent-blogging ‘universe’ grow the way it has?

It’s been amazing. I don’t think anyone expected it to last for as long as it has. It’s extraordinary that it’s gone from being this underground hobby that a few people had, to this huge world that’s now enabling those in the blogging world to enter into the mainstream media – writing books, doing podcasts, and even going on Strictly Come Dancing!

LOUISE PENTLAND

The blogger and author talks birth experiences, parenting essentials, and her favourite baby brands and that I value the time they take to send things to me. If you show that level of interaction, it shows you care, which I do!

Pearl is 18 months, and you have an eight year old, Darcy. How was life with a newborn second time around?

People say that going from one to two children is

Which aspect of social media do you enjoy most?

I love interacting with people. I think of it as a community, and a community doesn’t work if you say a bunch of things and leave. If people have taken time to respond to me, the least I can do is read their comments. I want people to know they’re appreciated,

easy, because you’re just adding another one to the mix, and that might be true if you have two little ones close in age. But at the time I had a six year old, who was obviously already out of the pushchair, nappies, and so For Louise, being a mum is “filled with fun”

on, it was like going back to the beginning again. It’s great now because Darcy can help out, but it was initially more challenging than I thought it was going to be.

Was giving birth quite a different experience, too?

Yes, I’d had a traumatic birth experience with Darcy, and I didn’t realise in the aftermath that I was suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – it had been misdiagnosed as postnatal depression. It took me a long time to bond with Darcy, and although I obviously loved her, there just wasn’t this ‘baby bliss’ that I’d geared myself up for. Then, before giving birth to Pearl, my midwife told me about this NHS service called ‘Meet the Matron’, where you sit down with someone from the maternity ward and they go through the notes from your previous labour.

It was so liberating, because my worries about giving birth this time around were validated by

Doona infant car seat £299.99, shop.doona baby-magazine.co.uk | 33

Louise’s little ones adore playing with their tea trolley from Le Toy Van Le Toy Van trolley £149.98, ubershoponline.com

Life’s a beach for Louise and co when they’re in Corfu

a professional, who Is storytime agreed that my a big thing in experience with your house?

Darcy had been Pearl loves board traumatic. From books. Her there, I could work favourites are the on dealing with That’s not my…

The Tiger Who Came to Tea animal series from those feelings, so £5.49, waterstones.com by the time I was Usborne, especially ready to have Pearl, as they’re textured I was in a happier place mentally. and sensory. I recently bought her some lift-the-flap books, but How did Darcy react to Happy birthdays getting a little sister? for Louise She’s more interested now that and her girls she’s a bit older – Pearl’s starting to understand how to play and be more involved. They’re a lot closer now. In the beginning, I think Darcy was expecting a fully-formed playmate!

You’ve also written three novels over the last two years; Wilde Women was published in July this year. Do you think you’ll ever try writing for children?

I would love to at some point in the future. For now, all I can say is watch this space!

34 | baby-magazine.co.uk

the problem is she just rips all the flaps off! My personal favourite is The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Which other essentials have helped you through motherhood so far?

A Doona car seat. It has wheels attached to it, so you can just pull the trigger and wheels come out the bottom of it, and the handle turns into a pushchair

handle. It’s amazing if you don’t have a pushchair with you.

What’s Pearl’s nursery like?

I’m pretty useless when it comes to interiors! All the pieces in both the girls’ rooms are mostly vintage finds from upcycle shops. Pearl’s cot is from Ikea, with cute artsy touches that Darcy has added.

Any favourite brands for her wardrobe?

I’m a big fan of Mini Boden, which does lovely pieces for babies.

Next has some great bits that wash well, and we have a few items from Zara Kids and M&S. What’s the best thing about being a mum?

There are difficult parts, but your life as a mum is predominantly filled with happiness and fun.

There are so many things you find yourself doing when you have children that you may have never done before. And you see things through your children’s eyes, and that makes life more magical.

INTERVIEW: NATALIE KEELER. PHOTOGRAPHY: NICKY JOHNSTON; BRETT COVE, BDC IMAGES; INSTAGRAM.COM/LOUISEPENTLAND.

Little Pearl loves Milky the cat

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The brand is dedicated to helping little ones sleep better every night. They also understand that a good night’s rest for babies means a better one for parents, too. All its sleepwear is designed with clever features to make parenting a little simpler; from double directional zips for quick nighttime changes to a seat-belt opening on the award-winning Clever Sleeping Bag for undisturbed sleep on the go.

Ensuring your baby is sleeping safely means the whole family can have peace of mind.

MORI sleepwear is crafted in its softer-thansoft signature fabric, made from organic cotton and bamboo which is gentle on delicate skin. The thermoregulating properties ensure a comfortable temperature, making its sleepwear a safe choice all year-round.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: © 2019 J DONALDSON/ A SCHEFFLER. LICENSED BY MAGIC LIGHT PICTURES LTD.

TOP TIPS FOR SLEEP SUCCESS Before sleep Instead of putting baby down once they’ve already fallen asleep, put them down as they begin to doze off. This method means they will learn to soothe themselves as they are more aware of their surroundings when they wake up.

Keep light out Have a distinct difference in lighting when they are awake to sleeping, either for naps or bedtime; use dark curtains and minimal lighting in baby’s room so they associate darkness with sleep.

One for you Bedtime routines aren’t just for little ones. Doing something that relaxes you can make a big difference in your quality of sleep. This can be having a warm bath, meditating or drinking a chamomile tea.

For more helpful sleep tips and to shop the new ‘The Gruffalo by MORI’ collection, visit babymori.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 35

STYLISH READS Emma O’Donovan PUTS TOGE TH ER H ER FAVOU RITE N EW BOOKS THAT LOOK GR E AT ON BABY ’S BOOKSH ELF

MIFFY X REMBRANDT

By Dick Bruna and Rijksmuseum

Two Dutch icons meet to explore the artistic similarities in the worlds of beloved Miffy and Rembrandt, the perfect introduction to fine art delivered in a fun way. £10, Mercis Publishing

BOOKS

Little ones will love finding out what s behind each ap

AN ABC OF EQUALITY

By Chana Ginelle Ewing and Paulina Morgan

Celebrate difference and encourage kindness and compassion with this beautifully illustrated board book introduction to equality.

A hopeful and inspiring addition to any bookshelf. £9.99, Frances Lincoln

COSMIC MACHINES

ILLUSTRATION: DICK BRUNA

By Dr Dominic Walliman and Ben Newman Pint-sized cosmonauts will be ready to rocket into space with this fact-packed book about space machines. Buckle up and get ready to enrich your little ones mind. £6.99, Flying Eye Books

IZZY GIZMO

By Pip Jones and Sara Ogilvie This book is a joy to read aloud with its inspiring female lead and smooth rhyming text. No doubt, it will be revisited many times. £6.99, Simon & Schuster

BRENDA IS A SHEEP

By Morag Hood

Brenda finds herself in an identity mix up as she tries a myriad of devious ploys in order to gobble up a sheep. Comedy at its purest. £11.99, Two Hoots

ANIMAL HOMES

By Clover Robin

From beavers to bees, you are welcomed into the homes of a variety of fascinating creatures to find out how and why they build

their homes the way they do. £8.99, Caterpillar Books

TREACLE STREET, MARCEL’S PARCELS

By Kate Hindley

Get acquainted with the jolly folk of Treacle Street. This charming, lift-the-flap book will have inquisitive minds guessing what’s hidden beneath. An utter delight. £6.99, Simon & Schuster

BUTTON & POPPER

THE SAME BUT DIFFERENT TOO

By Karl Newson and Kate Hindley

A wonderful story that celebrates difference and friendship, written from the heart and beautifully illustrated with love. This is the ultimate formative read for the tiniest of bookworms. £6.99, Nosy Crow

THIS IS FROG

By Oili Tanninen

By Harriet Evans and Jacqui Lee

This wonderfully nostalgic bedtime read tells the story of a family of pixies finding a new home. A soul-affirming tale about being kind to strangers written with true heart. £10.95, Thames & Hudson

Bounce head first into the jungle with Frog. A clever and educational read that will captivate readers of all ages with its vibrant illustrations and thoughtful text. £11.99, Caterpillar Books

baby-magazine.co.uk | 37

PROFILE

GET THE LOOK Cotton-bamboo blend T-shirt £18, babymori.com

Doidy Cup £4, jojomamanbebe.co.uk Jump Baby bibs (pack of two) £11.49, amazon.com

Your little one can come right up close to the table when they’re sitting in this chair Tripp Trapp highchair from £178, stokke.com

INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION

@SR_NUTRITION

Suction bamboo plate £14.99, bamboobamboo.co

Mum to Raffy and nutritionist, Charlotte Stirling-Reed talks meals, motherhood and why Instagram is her go-to platform Who do you like to follow on Instagram?

Parents with positive stories to tell and helpful tips about parenting. I also love following pages who share house design images. I’m so bad at styling my home but find the inspiration on these brilliant; I’m always making changes to my home as a result. I also love @stokkebaby for combining the two!

What are your favourite baby brands?

I love @daisies_and dinosaurs decor as it has such unique and beautiful stuff. Clothes wise, when Raffy was a newborn, I loved @babymoriuk, too. And @stokkebaby for its no-nonsense but stylish approach.

What do you love about the platform?

The inspiration. Never have we had so many tips and advice at our fingertips. It can be so helpful for

38 | baby-magazine.co.uk

new parents and those of us who need a boost of confidence or a little nudge to try something new.

What’s Raffy’s favourite meal?

He loves brekkie in the mornings, especially pancakes or his “carrot cake porridge” – I have the recipe on my blog! For lunch or dinner, it might be pesto pasta or my homemade mini pitta pizzas. They’re both a quick win!

If you could give one piece of weaning advice, what would it be?

To make the most of mealtimes by sitting, eating with your little one and, most importantly, having fun!

Weaning is about teaching your little one to love and enjoy food, and this is one of the best ways to do just that! It’s also really simple and a good time to engage with your child, too.

Nathalie Lété X H&M hooded jacket £14.99, hm.com

Tommee Tippee Baby Food Steamer Blender £100, direct.asda.com

WA L L PA P E R WA L L PA P E R

O R G A N I C COT TO N B E D L I N E N O R G A N I C COT TO N B E D L I N E N

CUSHIONS CUSHIONS

NE W WAL L PAP E R COL L E C T ION N OW ONL INE

HOME HOME

HIBOU HIBOU WWW. H I B O U H O M E .COM WWW.H I BOUHO M E.CO M

@hibou_home @hibou_home

@hibouhome @hibouhome

hibouhome hibouhome

THIS PAGE: Aria wears ecru fleece jacket, from £14. Knitted leggings, from £12 (pack of two). Grass in wicker basket, £35. Two tone planter, £20. Grass plant, £18 (comes with pot and stand).

RIGHT PAGE: Sia wears frill collar bodysuit, from £10 (pack of two).

Ecru frill hem cardigan, from £11. Bloomers (part of set with blouse), from £15. Frill socks, £5 (pack of three). Shoes, £8. Hamilton dining chair, £274 (set of two). Woven throw, £25.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NEXT

Home COMFORTS CH U N K Y L AYERING AN D COSY COT TON S STE AL TH E SHOW AS NEXT R EVE AL S ITS SWEE TE ST AUTUM N BABY COLLEC TION TO DATE

PHOTOGR APHY: JONATHAN MALPASS

ST YLING: CHAR LOT TE KEWLEY

ART DIR EC TOR : CH LOË COLLYER

THIS PAGE: Eden wears knitted dinosaur spiked hat, £7. Bodysuit (part of set with dungarees), from £16.

Dungarees (part of set with bodysuit), from £13. Faux sheepskin rugs, £35 each. Two tone planter, £20.

Pom pom edge cushions, £12 each.

RIGHT PAGE: Etta wears woven smock romper, from £11. Socks, £2.50 (pack of two). Hamilton dining chair, £274 (set of two). Grass in wicker basket, £35.

*ALL STOCK SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. DELIVERY EXCLUSIONS APPLY. CHECK NEXT.CO.UK FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

LEFT PAGE: Etta wears knitted romper, from £13.

Faux sheepskin rugs, £35 each. Grass in wicker basket, £35.

THIS PAGE: Nathaniel wears sweater, from £12 (for set with joggers). Dungarees, from £16 (for set with bodysuit). Faux sheepskin rug, £35. Grass in wicker basket, £35. Trailing succulent plant, £14.

ALL OF THE ITEMS FEATURED HERE ARE AVAILABLE AT NEXT.CO.UK. SHOP BY MIDNIGHT FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY AS STANDARD FOR £3.99* WITH THANKS TO MODELS: ARIA, EDEN, ETTA, NATHANIEL, SIA. MODEL AGENCIES: BRUCE & BROWN, GRACE & GALOR, LACARA, NCA. HAIR & MAKE-UP: LAUREN MCCORMACK. PHOTOGRPHER’S ASSISTANT: NINA CLOSE. ART DIRECTOR’S ASSISTANT: NATALIE DOURADO

BABY TALK

I

My youngest is at that stage now where I am thinking of taking the bars off the bed, although I am not sure I am ready yet. I have the Stokke Sleepi bed which cleverly transforms from cot to cot bed with ease, but I have a feeling that I will be putting a baby gate on his door. £575, stokke.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

I’m a complete sucker for toile de jouy and although it might be a little over the top for a children’s bedroom, I have fallen in love with some Alice in Wonderland wallpaper from Murals Wallpaper. I know I would love to have had this in my room as a little girl. muralswallpaper.co.uk

WHERE TO GO

The organisers of the Baby Show have a Baby to Toddler event at ExCel London from 23-24 November, which is a great place to go if you’re thinking about decorating.

They have a ginormous range of baby and toddler products and, in particular, a fantastic nursery furniture and accessories selection.

Parents can also get expert advice on-site at the event. babytotoddlerevents.co.uk

am a bonfire baby, born on the 5 November, so it’s an exciting month for us with any excuse for a party, especially when it involves toffee apples and fireworks. As well as wrapping up and getting out as much as possible, I love spending cosy time by the fire and getting in the Christmas swing. I’ve been doing a bit of interior work at home this year and I absolutely love designing children’s rooms.

When I was a child, I used to have a sheepskin rug next to my bed, and it’s still at my parents’ house now. This 100 per cent natural sheepskin, with a lovely suede back, brings a really sumptuous feel to any nursery. £75, loaf.com

Leo’s

LITTLE LUXURIES OU R COLUM NIST Leonora Bamford SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE THINGS THIS MONTH

I’ve gone bonkers for these photo tiles that you can custom print onto tiles that not only stick, but can be re-stuck on your wall without nails or damage. I love the idea of printing family snaps to have in a nursery, and it’s so nice to be able to get new baby photos printed and up on the wall quickly and easily. instiles.mobi

baby-magazine.co.uk | 47

FASHION

AH E AD OF TH E C U RVE ST YLIST AN D PR E SENTER Antonia O’Brien SHAR E S H ER PR E AN D POSTNATAL WAR DROBE LUST-HAVE S The boot of the season, the lace-up, will add a touch of Victorian-styling to jeans and a knit – plus the low-heel won’t tip your changing centre of gravity

Joseph wool and cashmere-blend cape £745, net-a-porter.com

ALEXA CHUNG

By Far leather ankle boots, £420, harveynichols.com

Crossbody bag £255, bymalenebirger.com

The cape is huge at the moment; choose a style that can be both casual and smart, pre and post pregnancy, like this sleek style from Joseph

Knitted trousers £ 79, arket.com

Shirts with ruffled collars, prim styling and puff sleeves are great for layering and right on-trend; style with dungarees as seen at Hatch

FOLK FINERY

Needle & Thread chiffon wrap gown, £350, net-a-porter.com

Fringed wool blazer £99.99, mango.com

48 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Heeled mules, £29.99, zara.com

Don’t let a bump or breastfeeding stop you from wearing this season’s prairie dress; choose an adjustable wraparound or button-down style

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

Cotton top, $178, hatchcollection.com

Paris Fashion Week street style A/W 2019

FASHION

Style your bump…

Cosy winter layers… whether you’re walking home from brunch or further

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: wool knit hat, £75, ganni.com; Barbour by Alexa Chung waxed jacket, £429, johnlewis.com; Stokke MyCarrier, £79, stokke.com; suede boots, £275, grenson.com; wool-cashmere scarf, £59, cosstores.com; faux shearling vest, £85, stories.com; Autograph cashmere jumper, £89, marksandspencer.com; maternity jeans, £42, topshop.com

Yes, really – a longline wax jacket that doesn’t straighten your curves but cinches instead.

Thank you Barbour

by Alexa Chung!

White jeans are not just for summer; style with camel-coloured cashmere and hiking boots for a cosy-cool weekend look

Keep cosy without overheating by layering. You want cotton against the skin then fine layers, including cashmere, if it’s chilly; my go-to for both quality and value is Marks & Spencer

Grenson’s hiking boots are the best investment for comfort, practicality and style when the weather turns; I loved mine when I was waddling at eight months last December!

# TR EN DING

@IAMLAURAJACKSON

@ALEXACHUNG

@ARKETOFFICIAL

@ALEXISFOREMAN

The Bucket Hat. No longer exclusive to the 1990s and Manchester, the bucket hat has become something of a trend with vintage Burberry and new Ganni being highly sought-after; perfect for a rainy day.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 49

INTERVIEW Becoming a mother isn’t going to prevent Kirsten from working as an actress

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INTERVIEW

• TA L K I N G W I T H K I R S T E N D U N S T •

GOOD AS DUNST

The child starlet’s self-arranged removal from a world of red carpets was swift and glorious after the arrival of baby Ennis irsten Dunst’s respect in film circles is without question, despite having had to negotiate a long and sometimes winding path through the teen market. She won the Best Actress award at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival for Melancholia, and her increasing pursuit of challenging roles denotes a creativity that, even now, is a long way off being satisfied, hence her work with leading icons Sofia Coppola and Michel Gondry.

For all she has given the industry, though, it was undoubtedly her move into TV that offered her quicker and more tangible recognition.

“I think TV is a format that has a much purer longevity and the ability to discuss a piece of creative work in the way that film just can’t,” she says. “Add to that the types of roles I’ve taken in the past and there is a link to TV that has definitely worked for me, with that adolescent drama element often there.”

Does Dunst consider that link gone, considering she is now a mum, following the arrival of baby Ennis Howard Plemons at the start of May last year to the actress and actor-fiancé Jesse Plemons?

“It’s an interesting question because it’s something I have thought about, and I’ve come to the conclusion that the job of an actor is versatility. I don’t think having a child should preclude anyone from doing any line of work.

“I hear that ‘coming-of-age’ tag quite a lot in relation to what I have done in the past, and, of course, you have to move with your age and your experiences, but as I will say to Ennis the older he gets, life is about maximising everything you have, and you shouldn’t be told that you can or cannot do something because of your age, or because you are male or female, or anything else.”

Dunst, who lives in Los Angeles, holds dual German-American citizenship and was born and raised in New Jersey by her German father Klaus and German-Swedish mother Inez – until their divorce when she was 12. She has certainly invested heavily in her craft. At the age of just seven, she appeared in Woody Allen’s New York Stories, and was on stage as a three year old.

“I’ve always been busy with my job, but motherhood brings a whole different meaning to the word,” she says. “I don’t think anyone can fully prepare you for what’s to come, because the task is unrelenting, but at the same time, it is the most beautiful and rewarding thing anyone could ever ask for.

WORDS: KAREN OVERTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY/LISA O'CONNOR/ZUMA WIRE/ALAMY LIVE NEWS; REX IMAGES/SHUTTERSTOCK

K

“The time certainly felt right to start a family. Even over the last few years we have lived a pretty calm and normal life in Los Angeles. We rented a small house in a quiet and suburban neighbourhood, and even before we had Ennis, we didn’t go to parties or hang out with people in the business all the time. It’s like I was slowing down so I could lead up to this.”

Curiously, though, the 37 year old admits that the thing that really won over to the idea and magic of little people came about when she spent time with a close buddy.

“I’m a godmother to my best friend’s daughter and I spent a lot of time with her,” she says. “Their house is just around the corner from me and being around her gave me a new perspective on what it meant to be a mother and what it was to raise a child. When I was with her, I felt totally lost in her little world, and that made me start thinking about how beautiful it would be to have a child.

“Of course, I always wanted to have children myself, but particularly spending time with my goddaughter sparked a motherly, protective instinct that I knew I wasn’t going to shake until I had my own baby.”

Dunst is signed up as the lead character on new Showtime series On Becoming a God in Central Florida, but past that is holding back on filling her schedule with too many other commitments.

“It is such a beautiful time and I don’t want to lose half of it in a film studio, although having my mother-in-law come in to take over things is a blessing when work calls,” she says. “I also want to protect my family from my own career because I got caught up in that celebrity stuff from a very young age, and it wasn’t healthy. But hey, it was a job, it helped towards my college funds,” she laughs. “I’d do a scene with Brad Pitt, then skip off to do my homework!

“For Ennis, it is a conversation to come, I guess, but there are other priorities first. Certainly, time together is the most important thing, and I also want to travel as that’s something I always had as a child.

“Many a time we visited my grandfather in Germany and spent hours on the Autobahn. The speed was a real thrill for me, but the mystery of where we were was just as great in my mind.

“As I’ve matured, I’ve understood that I need to live according to my own desires and goals, and that feels good. I want my children to follow those same rules and to be true to themselves, and, if they do, it’s a wonderful world out there.”

Kirsten trav elled when she was a ch so she plan ild, s to do the sa me with Enn is

baby-magazine.co.uk | 51

TOT GEAR

TECH TIME

In line with its new car seat collection, Silver Cross has launched a first-ofits-kind Car Safety Made Simple app.

The mobile app links to a QR code on each of the brand’s four new car seats and automatically directs the user to a simple five-step installation guide. This easy-to-follow checklist with images and audio commentary gives parents peace of mind that their car seat is fitted safely and correctly. silvercrossbaby.com

tot gear

NEWS COOL AN D CLEVER BABY KIT FOR N EW FAMILY LIFE WINTER WONDERS As summer strolls are over and the colder months set in, the Signature Edition Ocarro Simply Luxe pushchair now features a ‘winter pack’ full of essentials to keep your little one wrapped up!

This includes sheepskin-lined stroller mitts and a sheepskin liner! Starting price for a four-piece bundle is £999, mamasandpapas.com

The iconic Stokke Xplory stroller design is now available in two limited-edition colours; Tranquil Blue and Soothing Pink.

The dreamy textiles are made from PET recycled materials and cover all seasons as they’re PFC water-repellent, while the sunshade provides SPF50+ sun protection.

An optional carrycot, footmuff and changing bag are also available in two chic colours to match! From £1,029, stokke.com

SAFER FOR LONGER Joie has a new i-Size car seat. The i-Venture, suitable from birth to 18.5kg, boasts a rearward-facing, allowing children up to four years old to ride rearward safely and comfortably. When your little one is ready to move to forwardfacing (minimum 15 months), just switch with a push of a button – no reinstallation needed. £225 (Joie i-Base Advance base sold separately), joiebaby.com

CHEEKY RASCALS HAS ANNOUNCED THAT THE LIGHTWEIGHT, SUPER-COMPACT FAMILIDOO AIR STROLLER IS NOW AVAILABLE IN TWO NEW COLOURS; INTRODUCING THE CLASSICALLY STYLISH DARK GREY DENIM, AS WELL AS A SUPER-CUTE, PLAYFUL BLUE PANDA. £169, CHEEKYRASCALS.CO.UK

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REVIEW

THE REVIEW

MOTH ER- OF-T WO Caroline Dobson TAKE S TH E SILVER CROSS WAVE OUT FOR A SPIN

F

ollowing the arrival of our second child, we were looking for a pushchair that was comfortable, easy to assemble and allowed for both our sons to ride together with ease. We selected the Silver Cross Wave and couldn’t have been happier with our choice!

Going from a single buggy to a double is less daunting with the Silver Cross Wave

Caroline looks forward to taking her boys out in the Wave

THE LOWDOWN With its innovative One plus One system that transforms the pushchair from a single to a double, there’s no doubt that the state-ofthe-art Silver Cross Wave has been designed with growing families in mind. The buggy also offers the ultimate comfort and protection, with a ventilated carrycot that’s suitable for overnight sleeping, plus a fully extending hood that provides sun protection.

off! A new Slate colourway has just been released, too, which is just as gorgeous.

GOOD LOOKING? You wouldn’t expect anything less from Silver Cross, but I have to say, the Wave is a stunning piece of kit! With its tan leather cushioned handle bar and detailing, and practical yet chic Granite colourway, this pushchair combines good looks with a robust edge that won’t mark and look forever unkempt. Of course, looks aren’t always everything, but we’re now rather proud of our Silver Cross double buggy and love cruising around local parks to show it

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVABILITY From the get-go, the Wave is easy to use with quick assembly. I’ve always been sceptical about double buggies and how easy they are to drive, due to their size, but was pleasantly surprised. The suspension is something else and can take on any curb with ease, without waking our newborn. Even walking up our local towpath is no challenge for the Wave! It even comes with its own cup holder – ideal for a morning walk with a coffee – plus a hard shell shopping basket that’s great for days out.

Folding and packing into the car is a breeze, too, thanks to its easy-to-use mechanism and removable wheels; and with a pull of the handle bars, the base is folded. Opening it is Silver Cross offers traditional prams and innovative pushchairs

as simple as unclipping a side bar – even with a newborn and toddler, I can manage that!

COMFORT My two year old was excited to be facing his mummy again, and our newborn sits comfortably underneath, making it a compact ride for a double buggy. The bassinet is plush, with felt padding around the inside, creating a cosy interior, but also airy, with the option to open the top to allow air flow. It’s ideal for all types of weather, with two rain covers for wet days, and a fully-extendable hood and popout visor for when it’s sunny. My toddler loves the reclining feature on his seat and has taken to napping on the go. I couldn’t ask for more!

VERDICT Given the size of the Wave, you might expect a cumbersome, heavy ride, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The suspension, design and detail give a luxurious feel, but also a practical, hardwearing edge that assures you of its durability and long lifespan. I couldn’t recommend this buggy more. £1,200, silvercrossbaby.com

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SHOPPING

GO, GO GADGET TH E SE IN NOVATIVE, GENIUS GADGE TS AN D PRODUC TS AR E GUAR ANTEED TO MAKE PAR ENTS’ LIVE S, AN D BABY ’S, THAT LIT TLE BIT E ASIER

With the Elvie breast pump, you can pump whenever you like and wherever you are

Elvie pump

The Elvie breast pump is the world’s first silent, wearable breast pump. This unbelievably clever contraption fits in your bra so that you can pump in peace, whenever and wherever.

No more hours spent hiding away tethered to a wall and tangled in wires. Run wild, lead a seminar, go to the cinema, all while pumping.

The pump will pause when the bottle is full so no need to worry about accidents, and the handy app will help you to monitor milk volume and track your pumping history.

Basically, this pump fits into your life and not the other way around. From £249, elvie.com

54 | baby-magazine.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

Micralite Sleep & Go travel cot

This travel cot is three products in one, also operating as the perfect sleep solution from birth, right up until baby is two, as well as a day-to-day playpen. The mesh ventilation and plush mattress provide the ideal environment for a good night’s sleep, whether you’re out and about or at home. Simply expand the cot with the zip to fit an ever-growing baby; the soft padding makes for a bump-free playpen. Foldable, lightweight and with a sturdy travel bag to carry it in, baby will sleep well on every adventure. £175, micralite.com

Itsy Blitz blender

The Itsy Blitz Portable Weaning Blender is revolutionising the baby food game. Take it anywhere and produce fresh, homemade meals for your little one with the touch of a button. Avoid buying expensive brands and control what your baby is eating, whether you’re in the wilderness or just having lunch in the garden. Though it has a battery that can last a week, the Micro-USB charging base means it can be charged anywhere, even in your car. Fill it with goodness and whizz it up, then it goes in the dishwasher – easy-peasy. £39.99, myitsy.com

Didofy Lotus pushchair

A pushchair that can auto fold? That’s right.

Designed by parents, for parents, the result of the three-in-one Lotus pushchair is a practical, reliable, safe and stylish piece of kit that is full of clever features. Folding and unfolding with the press of a button, the days of struggling with complicated clasps and handles are over!

The Lotus is even equipped with a mobile phone charger. This travel system is suitable to use from birth and comes in a selection of gorgeous colours, including navy and pink.

From £950, didofy.com

SHOPPING

Stokke Steps chair

The Stokke Steps is the multifunctional, stylish, super-seating solution that will take baby from newborn to toddler in just a few easy, tool-free steps. The simple, Scandi-inspired design serves as the core base for the Stokke Steps Bouncer and then the Stokke Steps Baby Set to create a highchair, so that your little one can comfortably sit and enjoy mealtimes with the rest of the family no matter how old they are. The rounded seat and adjustable footrest is specially designed to give active, independent toddlers proper support and comfort and let them climb in and out by themselves. From £178, stokke.com

From newborn to toddler, the stylish Stokke Steps chair can seat them when it’s time to eat

Béaba Babycook Neo

The new generation Béaba Babycook Neo has been designed with respect for the environment, as well as the nutritional quality of food, using 48 per cent less carbon dioxide and 50 per cent less water and energy than its predecessor. The high-quality glass bowl and stainless-steal basket mean you can cook, blend, steam, defrost or reheat meat, fish, fruit or veg in a soft steam modulation process designed to preserve nutrients for extra goodness. The double lever stainless steel mixing blade allows you to provide just the right food texture for any stage of weaning. Cooking delicious baby food at home couldn’t be easier. £100, beaba.com

56 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Shnuggle Moonlight

Shnuggle’s sleep-friendly portable night light is innovatively designed with a touch-activated low power LED bulb, dual parent and child modes and a room temperature sensing dock. The parent mode can be activated with a simple nudge when baby wakes, making the ideal light for feeding, changing and comforting baby during the night, promoting sleep and a calming environment. During child mode, the moonlight becomes the perfect night-time companion, emitting a soothing light to help your child sleep and guiding the way during late-night bathroom trips. £29.95, shnuggle.com

Premium, sustainable interior design for little loved ones. www.camcamcopenhagen.com

Available at: Scandiborn.co.uk - House of Fraser - Camcamcopenhagen.com

PROFILE

Cam Cam Copenhagen’s cosy Baby Nest is a newborn essential

PROFILE

Founder Sara is well supported by her husband Robert in the running of the business

BEHIND THE BRAND

CAM CAM COPENHAGEN K ATE FR EU D GOE S BEHIN D TH E SCEN E S WITH TH E INTERIOR S BR AN D FOU N DER Sara Giese Camre

A favourite piece is the Harlequin changing table

hile for many women those early days with a newborn are a haze of baby cuddles and sleep deprivation, the same can’t be said for Sara Giese Camre, founder of the award-winning children’s lifestyle brand Cam Cam Copenhagen. For not only was she savouring those precious months with her daughter, Olivia, now eight, but she was also multitasking to the extreme as she began building a new business from scratch.

It was, in fact, when trying to decorate the perfect nursery for Olivia that Sara came up with the idea for Cam Cam Copenhagen.

She explains, “I was on maternity leave but couldn’t find any organic products that matched our needs and style. The selection of sustainable products for babies were limited and everything nursery-related I found was very seventies-inspired. I desperately wanted something more classically Scandi and modern.” So Cam Cam Copenhagen was born.

“I started slowly producing my own products, primarily textile items like muslins,

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swaddles and bedding, all made from 100 per cent organic cotton,” Sara explains. “At this stage, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to fully commit to the brand and leave my career as an architect, but it wasn’t long before Cam Cam Copenhagen took off. So, in 2014, I quit my job, and the rest, as they say is history,” Sara says.

In 2015, Sara’s husband Robert sold his architect company and joined the Cam Cam Copenhagen team (he is now CEO), one of several people to come on board during those first few months. And from the business’s surprising early expansion, today there are 20 employees, and all warehouse and packing has been outsourced.

Sara believes it was a combination of factors that have led to the company’s success. “It was good timing for us, as well as introducing a new style for children’s rooms at the right time,” she explains. “I think we’ve been part of a new wave of interest, both in sustainability and for decorating the kids’ bedrooms in line with the rest of the house.” Not only

baby-magazine.co.uk | 59

PROFILE

that, the products are beautiful, in a muted palette that’s equally pleasing to parents and children alike. “Our designs work because of their timeless character, combining a clean, Scandinavian look with romantic and nostalgic notes,” Sara says.

With Robert now running the business, and many talented people on board, it has given Sara the freedom to focus on design, her true passion. “One thing I’ve learned is how important it is to hire brilliant people, instead of interns or people without experience,” Sara says. “Good employees can lift so much stress off your shoulders and help take your business to the next level.” Today Cam Cam Copenhagen has 107 different product types, including furniture, lamps and changing bags.

The business is based in a vast open-plan office, though, as it continues to expand, they

OUR DESIGNS WORK BECAUSE THEY COMBINE A CLEAN SCANDI LOOK WITH NOSTALGIC NOTES are moving to bigger premises at the end of the year. “I spend most of my time here at the office, except for a couple of inspirational trips to Paris a year,” Sara says. “My husband goes to Latvia to check the furniture production, and my assistant goes to India twice a year to check our main production and do quality control. I used to go, but don’t like leaving our youngest son, Elliot, two, for the time being,” she explains. “When I can, I also love going to the different fairs we participate in Children and parents alike love the brand

across the world, from Paris and Sydney to Cologne and Stockholm.”

When she’s not working or globetrotting, Sara spends most of her time with Robert and their four children, Markus, 19, Amalie, 13, Olivia and Elliot. “We have two kids together and my husband’s two oldest children from his previous marriage, who also live with us,” she says. “I love cooking. I’m trying to teach them to cook, which is a nice thing to do together but also important in life – eating good food is a great joy,” Sara says. “I also work out a lot, because I get more energy to manage everything else when I do.”

So, what next for this working mother?

“We’re starting to accommodate the next phase of children’s lives, not just the baby years, so I’ve designed a Junior Bed for kids aged three to eight. You can even extend the length so it takes them through their teenage years, too.” she says, excitedly. “We’re also introducing rugs, and a beautiful baby kitchen you would actually be happy to have in your house!” she laughs.

Sara’s enthusiasm for what she does is palpable and with With Olivia a vision like hers, we’ve no and Elliot doubt Cam Cam Copenhagen will continue to go from success to success. camcamcopenhagen.com

Copenhagen’s

calling Rainbow mobile

Sleeping bag

Baby ball toy

This kids chair comes in three colours and is a welcome addition to any modern nursery Harlequin chair

Changing bag

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PARTIES Twin-inspired gifts for the stars of the show

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ON THE DAY Here’s how to set the scene

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Leather moccasins £40 per pair, hedleyfield.com

Tassel garland £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

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Merino baby set £64, lacoquetakids.com

Baby set £59, lacoquetakids.com

4 1. Plush toys £12 each, jellycat.com 2. Twins handprint frame £26, my1styears.com 3. Cotton leggings £4 each, marksandspencer.com 4. Maileg twins in a box £23.95, scandiborn.co.uk

PARTIES

with Carole Middleton

TWIN BIRTHDAY

This special birthday can be twice as nice. Here are my top party tips to celebrate in style

W

hether you’re planning a first birthday, a baby shower, or naming day, planning for one child can seem like a rather large task, so multiplying it can seem more daunting than ever. The good thing is that a twins’ birthday can be treated like any other. Just because the celebration is for two doesn’t mean you need to double up on everything, but do make a conscious effort to opt for some individuality – especially when it comes to the cake. I’d recommend going for something smaller like cupcakes or little cake pops, and personalising them with each name and their very own candle.

You may choose to theme your party; it can be fun to go for famous double characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, setting the party around the Clubhouse – little ones will love the bright colours. Or perhaps take your celebrations into the woods with Hansel and Gretel, or go down the Alice in Wonderland route with Tweedledee and Tweedledum, not forgetting the famous tea party!

Once you’ve chosen your characters, it’s easy to apply a theme around that with everything from décor to food.

If you’d rather keep things simple, why not choose two colours and focus on that instead? One option is to focus on the monochrome trend using black and white, teaming it with wooden props to give a Scandi feel. Guests of all ages will love getting creative with a retro chalkboard.

Whichever way you style the big day, make sure it’s a party to remember – a first birthday is a big milestone for both parents and babies!

Balloons (pack of five) £3.49, partypieces.co.uk Paper napkins (pack of 16) £2.49, partypieces.co.uk

Paper plates (pack of eight) £2.99, partypieces.co.uk baby-magazine.co.uk | 63

With you every step of the way

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HEALTH

PILLOW TALK

Great news, breastfeeding mamas; Infantino has just unveiled its Elevate Adjustable Nursing Pillow, specially designed to support feeding time as baby grows. This pillow helps mums maintain the ideal position as they breastfeed, regardless of whether they have a newborn, growing infant or older baby – simply adjust the layered petals to discover the best feeding angle. £39.99, uk.infantino.com

ALL THINGS MOTHERHOOD with NEEV SPENCER

H

ello, new mummy-of-two Neev here! My newborn, Vivienne, is now a month old and I can’t believe how much she’s changed over the last few weeks. The birth and recovery seems like a million miles away from where we are now, and I’m so relieved to say it all went well.

All of the preparation has made a huge difference second time around. Meeting with psychologist, Dr Dimitrios Tsivrikos, helped me work on ways to change my negative thought processes, control my fears and better settle my mind. Acupucturist Maureen Cromley prepared me with traditional Chinese medicine practices, from building my healing response ahead of the section, to helping me with lactation issues post-baby.

The birth itself was utterly different to the first c-section I had. Dr Serap Akmal at Queen Charlotte’s Hospital conducted a natural caesarean. It was such a special experience.

I also looked into new scientific advances in planning for my baby’s future. I decided to have my umbilical cord blood frozen through Future Health Biobank. My cord blood was collected from the delivery suite, bloods were taken from me and are now frozen and stored for Vivienne, should she ever need them.

Genevieve has welcomed her baby sister beautifully. The hardest thing right now is the time that she lacks with me, so my husband and I have been trying to balance our time so that I still do her bedtimes and early mornings.

These first steps into motherhood have been so joyful, I can’t wait to see what’s next.

The uniquely layered pillow offers a choice of height positions to feed your baby

health & beauty

NEWS

TH E L ATE ST PRODUC TS AN D IN NOVATION S IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING SQUEAKY CLEAN Kit & Kin’s new baby wipes have arrived. Now containing 99 per cent water and a touch of aloe vera, this baby essential is ideal for cleaning bottoms, wiping sticky counter tops and keeping your tot’s face and hands feeling fresh.

And every pack sold helps to fund the protection of tropical rainforests. Result! £2.50, kitandkin.com

Check out baby-magazine.co.uk and @neevofficial for more from me

Ahead of the birth, I investigated the benefits of ingesting my placenta. Placenta Practice encapsulation is a really powerful way to benefit from your own body’s natural healing remedies.

I’ve been taking the tablets daily and even have a placenta-based balm made up for me and Vivienne to use. placentapractice.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I’M LOVING...

DID YOU KNOW THAT THE LACTATION BREAST IS CLASSED AS AN ORGAN? A STAGGERING 86.7% OF PARENTS DIDN’T, AS REVEALED IN A RECENT SURVEY BY BREASTFEEDING BRAND MEDELA. IT WAS ALSO FOUND THAT ALMOST HALF DIDN’T KNOW BREAST MILK CONTAINED STEM CELLS. MEDELA.CO.UK

baby-magazine.co.uk | 65

BIRTH

Partner up…

BEING A BIRTH PARTN ER IS N OT E ASY AN D COM E S WITH A FEELING OF POWER LE SSN E SS IN TH E FACE OF MOTH ER NATU R E’S MOST E X TR AOR DINARY ACCOM PLISHM ENT. Mar tha Alexander FIN DS OUT H OW TO GE T IT RIGHT bout an hour after I’d given birth to my daughter, the midwife who had just weighed her told us that our little newborn had done her first poo, lay her on a changing mat and promptly left the room. My husband looked at me blankly.

“Shall I do it?” He asked after a while.

“If you wouldn’t mind,” I said from the bed, my feet in stirrups while I was being sewn up by the hospital’s suturist. “I’m indisposed.”

It wasn’t that my husband was being lazy or unfeeling, he just didn’t have a clue what to do. He had been a brilliant birth partner (if you ignore that he did get into trouble with the midwives for making silly jokes); he was an advocate for me and kept a steady flow of Lucozade and Rowntree’s Fruit Gums coming at me. But the experience was hardly a breeze.

Birth is hard, especially if you are first-time parents.

Aside from model Gisele Bünchden, who made no new friends when she said that the birth of her son “didn’t hurt in the slightest”, there are few parents who can honestly say that labour was a chilled-out, pain-free, relaxing cakewalk.

Being a birth partner is a tough role to get right. Not that you can complain (rule number one about being a birth partner is not to claim you are suffering pain, fatigue or hardship).

While you can’t control the will of an unborn child on its actual birthday, you can try to be the best possible support to your partner.

Gail Johnson, midwife and advisor of education at The Royal College of Midwives (rcm.org.uk) believes one crucial thing a partner can do is have a long conversation well ahead of time that focuses on the mother’s expectations. “This is so that a partner can reinforce those messages,” she says. “However,

A

you must be aware that things can and do change during labour, so you must be ready to re-engage in that conversation, especially where pain and epidurals are concerned.”

Laura Stocks, doula and founder of Stripped Back Birth (strippedbackbirth.com), says the best thing to do during the early stages of labour is ignore it – and then when you can’t ignore it, treat it like a date night! “Those early stages can be long,” she explains. “For a partner, this means helping to nurture this.

Distraction techniques like watching a funny film, going for a walk or cooking some yummy food can all be good ideas. But for a mother to labour, her oxytocin (love hormone) needs to be high and her adrenalin low, so any ways you can nuture a safe environment, where she can

say anything that makes out that labour is easy,” warns Johnson. “Even if the birth was straightforward, tell her she did a great job.

Giving birth is invariably anything but easy.

And, obviously, don’t ever share any intimate details about the birth.”

Once at home, a partner needs to take the reins. It’s not just assisting with the nappies and feeds, but it’s making the new mum and baby feel safe. Anyone within the family supporting the mother needs to ensure that quiet, bonding time can take place. “Don’t let the baby become overwhelmed,” she advises.

“Don’t let the house get full of visitors who want to see the baby and make noise.”

So it’s down to you, the partner, to be firm with any well-meaning friends and relatives who are ready to move in within seconds of you coming home with your new bundle.

Frankly, you’ll probably want to nest, too. “The admiration and love I see through the eyes of the father, is one of my favourite parts of my job,” says Stocks. “Women’s bodies are incredible and the honouring shouldn’t stop when the baby is born. Feeding in those early days can be relentless, so positive affirmations that she’s doing well are so important. Becoming a mum can be an overwhelming ride, so she needs you to be her rock.”

Stocks is also at pains to remind expectant parents that birth might seem like a frightening prospect, but it’s also, well, normal. “As dramatic as it might feel, find comfort in the fact that women are birthing all over the world at this very moment,” she says. “But only you know your partner and what makes her tick.”

And if all else fails, keep your head down, the Lucozade flowing – and offer to take that first nappy on the chin.

66 | baby-magazine.co.uk

feel calm and loved is the key. Think of it as a date night – and spoil her!”

When labour is active and a birthing woman’s pain increases, being able to develop a thick skin as a partner is also crucial. “You need to be aware that, for some women, nothing the partner can do will be right,” says Johnson. “Some of the things said in labour aren’t meant but come out during a time of great stress. Be prepared that the conversation isn’t always nice and smooth. You might have to accept that what your partner might really want is for you to go away.”

What not to do? Go to sleep, make ‘jokes’ about extra stitches, say you’re tired or uncomfortable or hungry, faint, tell her to relax or scroll through Instragram. “Don’t

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

BECOMING A MUM CAN BE AN OVERWHELMING RIDE; YOU NEED TO BE HER ROCK

RUNNING HEAD

One important job for a birth partner is to make sure the new mum and baby feel safe

baby-magazine.co.uk | 67

Q&A

RUNNING HEAD

with fertility expert

Zita West

What should I be doing on the lead-up to delivery, once I’m on maternity leave?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

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any women continue working for as you need to review your plans, but even long as possible before their baby if your pregnancy has been trouble-free, is born so that they can use the consider slowing down. Most major events majority of their maternity leave after the you can work towards a precise date, but with birth. This is fine, but you should be alert to labour you only have a guesstimate. Try to signs that your body might be under strain. make time to do some thorough preparation.

You need plenty of rest in the first trimester If you work up until your due date, it will be when your baby’s organs and body systems are difficult to find time to prepare mentally and first forming, and in the second trimester, you emotionally for labour and your baby’s arrival. will probably have had a burst of energy. In the If you are starting to think, “I hope I won’t third trimester, it can be tempting to assume go into labour today”, then you are doing too that your baby is fully formed and is just much. Slow down! Create a list of things you growing bigger. But important developments have to do and review your work-life balance. are taking place, such as the ‘wiring’ of your If you’re planning to work until a few weeks baby’s brain. However, you are getting ready before the birth but you are getting tired, for labour and birth, so you need to take good think about stopping earlier. care of yourself, too. Plenty of rest and I suggest planning to finish relaxation, some exercise to boost work from 36 weeks, to give ed Recommend circulation and reoxygenate your yourself time emotionally product blood are important, as is a and psychologically well-balanced, nutritious diet. to prepare not only The time to stop work for birth, but also for is your decision, but consult motherhood, which will your doctor or midwife. If you last a lifetime. It is also Omega 3 £17.50 for 60 capsules, zitawest.com have had any complications, good from here to think

about having weekly acupuncture to help prepare you for labour. Research has shown that it can reduce the chance of going overdue and may increase the possibility of a shorter, easier labour.

Proper rest is more important than ever in the last few weeks, so try to have a few hours with your feet up in the afternoon, and go to bed early. Continue with daily gentle exercise to help build stamina, and make sure you’re getting a good supply of vitamin C through your diet, perhaps topping up with good pregnancy supplements. Both are essential for hormone production before delivery. As you get closer to your due date, start to increase your intake of complex carbohydrates, and eat plenty of magnesium and calcium-rich foods.

Make the most of being off work and try to do something you enjoy every day – relish these last few weeks. If you’re feeling tired, uncomfortable and sleeping badly, go and have a massage and pamper yourself a little. Try to also make time to do something enjoyable with your partner. If you fancy a last-minute dinner out, go for it!

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

baby-magazine.co.uk | 69

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BREASTFEEDING

The Breastfeeding Café with

PROFESSOR AMY BROWN

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

I AM SCARED TO BREASTFEED WHEN I’M OUT AND ABOUT. ANY ADVICE?

B

reastfeeding for the first time in public can seem like a huge hurdle. You might have heard stories about women being asked to stop feeding their baby, or other people making nasty comments. These things do happen – but, first, it’s important to remember that they’re quite rare. In the UK, only around a third of mothers have said they have ever been made to feel uncomfortable.

Second, know that your right to feed your baby is protected by law. In Scotland, the law explicitly states that no one can stop a woman from breastfeeding, while in England and Wales you are covered by discrimination laws which state that you cannot be treated differently because you are breastfeeding.

Many other countries have similar legislation.

Never, ever feel that you should breastfeed in a toilet – would you expect anyone else to eat in there?

This doesn’t mean that you should be expected to feel really confident the first few times, and doing what you need to do to feel comfortable is paramount.

Some larger shops will have mother-and-baby rooms where you can feed in private. The

standard and cleanliness of these rooms varies, and sometimes there can be a wait – difficult with a hungry baby. And if you’re with others, you’ll miss out on being part of the social occasion while you feed.

Other things you might consider are finding a quieter spot, or asking staff whether there is somewhere private you can feed. Remember, you don’t have to sit facing others. You can position yourself with your back to others, or if you’re out with a friend or partner, they could sit in front of you, reducing the view.

Do what makes you feel most comfortable, but always remember you are perfectly within your rights to breastfeed while out and about.

If you prefer to show less skin, try wearing a light vest top underneath. You can pull that top down, and your outer top up to latch your baby on. You could also drape a muslin cloth strategically over your shoulder, but never feel your have to cover up, unless you prefer this. You can get nursing covers, but many babies refuse to feed under them – after all, would you eat with a blanket on your head?

Professor Amy Brown is the author of The Positive Breastfeeding Book (£14.99, Pinter & Martin Ltd), which is available now

Nipple balm £16.50, myexpertmidwife.com

Nursing bra £36, bravadodesigns.com

FEEL MORE CONFIDENT

• Take your partner or a friend along with you.

Having company and someone to chat to can make things feel a lot easier.

• Go along to a breastfeeding support group. Some meet in private rooms and some in public, but it’s a great way to get used to feeding in front of others, with an audience you know will be supportive.

• Go somewhere you know is breastfeedingfriendly. Maybe they have a ‘breastfeeding welcome’ sign, host a breastfeeding group or you have seen lots of other mums there.

By law, every public place should be supportive, but knowing they are gives you extra reassurance.

• Plan a short trip with nothing else much to do.

Frazzled, hungry babies can be a challenge to feed. Go at a quiet time of the day so you’ll get a comfy seat.

• Practise in front of the mirror – you’ll realise there is very little skin on show.

Cotton muslin £15.50, babymori.com

Séraphine nursing vest from £25, johnlewis.com

Elvie pump £249, elvie.com

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PARENTING

TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

BACK TO WORK

This issue, the sisters discuss returning to work after maternity leave

f all the challenges motherhood throws at you, guilt is possibly the hardest to deal with. And the guilt that comes with being a working mother is often harder than any professional task.

Motherhood changes women profoundly; the ambition and love of a challenge they took for granted are tested in a way they never anticipated. Many mothers have to return to work, but for most, working makes them happy, balanced and fulfilled – and the biggest winner in the scenario is the baby.

It’s important to spend time and money on getting your childcare right. Start thinking about what will work best about three to four months before you go back – nursery, childminder, nanny or nanny share? And spend as much as you can afford – think of the money as an investment in your children.

Persuade your employer that flexible working hours will work for both of you.

Many mothers will only consider returning to

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

O

their job with a degree of flexibility – either working from home part time, or three or four days a week. Employees have the right to apply for flexible working once they return from maternity leave. While it doesn’t have to be accepted, any application must be seriously considered and there has to be a business justification for any refusal. Don’t be shy of bigging yourself up, and make sure you outline how you’ll manage your workload with your proposed hours. If you can show that what you’re proposing will work, then it’ll be difficult for your employer to say no.

Take a focused look at your week and all the things you’re doing and prioritise the most important. Remember you simply cannot do it all! Use technology to speed things up (Ocado or Amazon) and outsource anything you can (ironing, cleaning). And remember, even if it’s just an hour a week, leave time for yourself.

There’s no such thing as the perfect mother – so focus on doing the best you can. You could set up a Whatsapp group with your nanny and your partner and ask her to send photos and videos of your child during the day. When you’re together, savour every precious moment. Switch the mobile off and give your child your full attention; an hour of quality time is worth more than five hours of distracted time Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are the founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South West London. Their podcast, The Parent Hood, is free to download on iTunes and Acast.

Visit thebumpclass.com

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SHOPPING

THE REVIEW ABOUT TO R E ACH TH E WE ANING STAGE, Laura Mason ROU N DS U P TH E U LTIMATE HIGHCHAIR CH OICE S

Best for

Best for

PORTABLE

ADJUSTABLE

Best for

LONGEVITY

Best for STYLISH

Best for

EASY CLEAN

BEABA

BABYBJORN

BUMBO

PEG PEREGO

STOKKE

Featuring six adjustable height levels, it fits seamlessly into any room in the house. Whether at the family dining table or breakfast bar, by the sofa or spoon-feeding while multitasking in the kitchen, the smooth transitions make it a doddle to use.

And the padded seat and high backrest provide support and comfort. £150, jojomamanbebe. com

A simple classic design with minimal crevasses and nooks for food to get stuck in. Smooth lines also mean it’s easy to keep clean and hygienic with a quick wipe, and the absence of any fabric material means there are no potential stains to stress about! Two beautiful new colour options, pastel pink and grey, are worth checking out for a pop of colour! £199.99, babybjorn.co.uk

This unique chair is ideal for travel or space constraints, as its lightweight, portable design means it can be easily moved around the home or packed for trips.

Not to be confused with the original Bumbo, the Multi Seat can be securely strapped to most chairs and includes a stowaway tray, so you have a readymade highchair accessible at all times. £59.99, buggybaby.co.uk

Undoubtedly one of the most fashionable highchairs around, the Mon Amour features a striking rose gold frame offset with pink detailing, making it a real statement piece. Not all style over substance, it has some great extras, including a tilt function, and handy wheels to make life a little easier on hard floors! £150, babylicious.org

weaning stage with the Stokke Steps Bouncer, allowing you to bring your newborn to the table, then once you’re ready add the Stokke Steps Baby Set to create the highchair. It’s tool-free and easy to adjust and available in plenty of cool Scandi colours – why not mix and match for a truly unique chair?

From £178, stokke.com

Up & Down Highchair

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Highchair

Multi Seat

Prima Pappa Steps Special Edition You can make use of Highchair this chair way before the

SHOPPING

Sit pretty with Beaba’s Up & Down highchair which has six height adjustments

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s n g i es D e w Ne vailabl A

It’s playtime Premium baby playmats

oops

Get Ready To Tumble

No Toxic Nasties

Fits Your Space

Durable

gusandbeau.com

Easy To Clean

Assembly Is Child’s Play

INTERIORS

GET ARTY

interior

COMFY CORNER Cuddle time has just got a whole lot more comfortable thanks to Mamas & Papas’ new arrival: the Hilston Cuddle Chair. With enough room for mum, baby and toddler, the chair is made from the softest ergonomic fabric and has solid oak rocking feet so that baby will be asleep in no time. It’s available in soft pastel colours and can be sold with an equally soft and supportive footstool for ultimate relaxation. From £599, mamasandpapas.com

This delightful collection of children’s prints, from the self-proclaimed “joyful stationers” Raspberry Blossom, is colourful, creative and seriously cute. The thoughtfully designed pictures feature adorable animals, arty alphabets and sweet slogans, and all are bold and playful. They can be personalised, too, to add an extra bit of fun. Available in A3 and A4 sizes, these prints are an easy interior twist to brighten up a bedroom or playroom.

From £15, raspberryblossom.com

NEWS

ST YLISH U PDATE S AN D IN SPIRING FIN DS TO MAKE YOU R HOUSE A HOM E PAPER DREAMS When little.B founder Marie couldn’t find a baby mobile that she really loved, she decided to make her own – and so the original Origami mobile was born. Marie’s now developed a full nursery decorating range, with items made from paper, natural wood and organic cotton.

From £10, littlebcompany.com

German brand Uuio believes kids’ furniture can be functional and play friendly, as well as stylish. Its new soft playmats and play shapes are e actly that. Filled with certified foam and made with high-quality Camira fabric, they’re modern masterpieces; soft and safe for babies and a talking-point for style-savvy parents. From £64, shop.uuio.de

INTERIORS

#HashtagHavens INTERIOR S GU RU Ali Howard HAS BEEN ON TH E IN STA H U NT FOR TH E COOLE ST N U R SERIE S AROU N D

D

ecorating the nursery is a joy. It can also be a daunting prospect when faced with a blank canvas – and the needs of a certain little person you haven’t met yet. For design-conscious parents-to-be, Instagram is an invaluable tool for baby room inspiration.

Whether you’re scrolling #nurseryinspo, #babyroom, or #nurserydecor, Insta offers one indulgent rabbit hole to fall down – preferably by way of a stylish Mr Maria Miffy lamp – into the baby room of your dreams.

MODERN WHITE #nurseryinspo: @domusvenus

This dreamy scheme is instantly calming. Contemporary snow-white pieces are offset with gold starry accents, offering a celestial feel, while floaty white fabrics keep the look light and bright.

COSY NORDIC #nurseryinspo: @graceinmagnolias

Sleepy Crescent cushion £35, bobbyrabbit.com

Don’t be afraid to go dark in the nursery. Here, a dramatic black wall allows the natural accents to stand out. Mix macramé wall hangings with rustic woven baskets and pale wood pieces to up the cosiness.

Kutikai drawers £935, bobbyrabbit.co.uk

Cushion From £18, babybearsnursery.co.uk

Uma rattan basket (set of three) £170, perchandparrow.com

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Ligne Roset table light £257, heals.com

Drape over a cot to create a serene place for baby to sleep Mila Ecru bed canopy £66, maisonsdumonde.com

INTERIORS

BAROQUE BABY

RAINBOW BRIGHT

You’re never too young for faded glamour. This room mixes vintage opulence with bohemian charm. Pick grown-up pieces to complement the nursery furniture for a laidback but sophisticated look.

Explore the spectrum with bright colour pops against a neutral background of white and natural wood. Colourful scatter cushions, pom-poms and layered rugs will add inviting textures.

#nurseryinspo: @cornwallhouse101

Cam Cam Copenhagen changing table £539, bobbyrabbit.co.uk

Who said sophistication was just for adults? Add a touch of luxury to baby’s space, too Persian cowhide rug £688, mineheart.com

#nurseryinspo: @amomooui

Cushion £35, sweetpeaandwillow.com

Madam Stoltz velvet table lamp £110, arbolhouse.com Cotton blanket £29, sophieallport.com

Liewood cotton blanket £41.95, scandiborn.co.uk Small Miffy lamp £135, miffyshop.co.uk

Lorena Canals rug £139, cuckooland.co.uk

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SAFETY

Playing it safe AUTHOR AN D FOU N DER OF FIR ST AID FOR LIFE, Emma Hammet t PROVIDE S A ROOM-BY-ROOM GUIDE TO H ELP YOU TAKE SIM PLE M E ASU R E S TO KEEP YOU R LIT TLE ON E SAFE AT HOM E

s babies become mobile, they explore, and you may feel you need eyes in the back of your head trying to keep track of them. They are incredibly tactile and want to touch everything and, ideally, put it in their mouths, too! Children need to take measured risks and minor bumps and bruises are inevitable. They should not be wrapped in cotton wool, but making small changes and being more risk aware will make your home considerably safer for them.

More than 100,000 children are admitted to hospital every year following accidents in the home. The most common accidents for under fours are choking, suffocation and strangulation, falls, road accidents, drowning, burns and poisoning. More accidents happen in the lounge than anywhere else in the home, but some of the most serious accidents occur in the kitchen and bathroom.

There are simple safety precautions that all households can easily adopt to minimise the risk of these potentially serious accidents.

A

GENERAL SAFETY AROUND LIVING AREAS

• Place corner covers on sharp corners and use door stops to prevent doors slamming.

• Never leave chairs, large plant pots or furniture near windows, worksurfaces, balconies or anywhere dangerous a baby or child could climb onto.

• Be extremely careful with hot drinks; a cup of tea that has been left to cool for 15 minutes can still be hot enough to burn a child.

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• Keep small items, toys designed for older children and batteries well out of children’s sight and reach. Batteries can burn and be fatal if swallowed.

• Always adhere to age guidance for toys, and check the CE mark.

• Fit safety locks to windows.

• Plug socket covers are no longer recommended as they can damage the integral safety element within the socket and render it more dangerous.

• Secure furniture, in particular bookcases, chest of drawers and televisions, to the wall to prevent them toppling and crushing a child if they try to climb up them.

• Keep pets away from small babies and never

KITCHEN

• Make sure hot drinks are kept out of reach, use a kettle with a short flex and keep it at the back of the worksurface.

• Use the back rings of the cooker, and turn pan handles away from the edge.

• Children can easily mistake a dishwasher or washing machine capsule/tablet for a sweet – keep them out of site and out of reach.

Cleaning products are strong alkali and burn.

THE SAFEST PLACE TO CHANGE YOUR BABY’S NAPPY IS ON THE FLOOR leave a pet unattended with a child.

• Be careful if visitor’s handbags are left accessible to children as they could have choking hazards or tablets inside them.

STAIRS & HALLWAY

• Always hold onto the bannister while carrying your baby up and down the stairs.

• Teach your baby to come down the stairs backwards.

• Fit safety gates to stairs before your baby starts crawling, and keep stairs clutter-free.

BEDROOM

• Do not hang drawstring bags over the cot, or near a cot, and tie blind cords out of reach, as these, along with necklaces, are often a cause of strangulation.

• The safest place to change your baby’s nappy is on the floor – be incredibly vigilant when using changing tables.

• Keep nappy sacks well away from babies, as they don’t have the dexterity to remove them from their faces and can suffocate very quickly.

SAFETY

CARE & PROTECT

Make your home a safer environment with the help of these top products

Cord wind-ups (pack of two) £3.29, dreambaby.co.uk

Sticky Stopper £2.99, nimblebabies.com

Skip Hop bath thermometer £12, uberkids.com

A Little Lovely Company light £9.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Fred wooden stairgate from £115, cheekyrascals.co.uk

• Do not use duvets and pillows for babies

• Medicines should be securely locked away;

before bathing your baby. Ideally, fit a thermostat or temperature regulator to the bath taps.

• Fit fireguards and radiator guards, and turn off heated towel rails.

• Always supervise water play – children can quietly drown in surprisingly small amounts of water (even just 3cm).

Take a first-aid course to ensure you are more risk aware and, most importantly, that you have the necessary skills to help your child if you need to.

a childproof container may only delay your little one getting at them.

• When preparing to have a bath, run the cold water in first to stop the bottom overheating. Use a bath thermometer as well as checking the temperature yourself

Amazon bestseller Burns, Falls and Emergency Calls – The Ultimate Guide to the Prevention and Treatment of Childhood Accidents, is available now at amazon.co.uk

under 12 months.

• Bunk beds are not recommended for children under six.

• Be very careful when using hair straighteners, irons and other hot implements, and keep them and their flexes well out of reach of children. Remember just how long they take to cool.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

BATHROOM

Vital Baby nappy disposal system £44.99, johnlewis.co.uk

Fred Corner Protector (pack of eight) £7, jojomamanbebe.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 81

FOOD

PROMOTION

food

NEWS

TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST TR E ATS FOR BABIE S, CHILDR EN AN D PAR ENTS STOKKE® SUPPER CLUB

CHAIR FOR LIFE

*COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 18 SEPTEMBER 2019

T

he kitchen table. A place where stories are told, memories are made, and, undoubtedly, messes and spillages are created and cleaned up once again, ready for a new day. The hub of the family right from the start, even for the youngest members of the clan.

Although your newborn baby won’t be eating until she hits the weaning milestone, this doesn’t mean she misses out on all the fun. Enabling eye contact and early interaction is great for development and this is where the revolutionary STOKKE® Tripp Trapp® begins its life with the help of the Newborn Set. Over 45 years ago, Norwegian designer Peter Opsvik knew there needed to be a chair designed for every stage of childhood and beyond. Today, the Tripp Trapp® has become one of Scandinavia’s most recognisable designs. The key to its success is timeless, quality design that has seen millions of children around the world having grown-up using this iconic chair. So whether you’re enjoying a relaxed Sunday brunch, or have the grandparents over for dinner, enable little diners to sit together with the rest of the family; the Tripp Trapp® goes right up to your dining table, allowing your child to learn and develop alongside you. Daily interaction with their family positively impacts a child and stimulates their healthy development.

WIN* two places for you and your baby to attend an exclusive STOKKE® workshop hosted by nutritionist Charlotte StirlingReed at the Good Housekeeping Institute, London, on 24 September, 3-5pm. Hear the latest research and the importance of eating together, plus the two lucky winners will also receive their very own Tripp Trapp®. To enter, visit baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions

LID-LICKING GOODNESS

Organic dairy brand Yeo Valley has released two new flavours of fromage frais in its Little Yeos Big Pots range. Made from milder cultures to appeal to little taste buds and encourage life-long healthy eating habits, they are perfect for weaning as well as for older children with growing appetites. Choose from delicious Strawberry, made from real strawberries and grape juice, or simply Natural, with a creamy taste and no added sugar. These new yoghurt pots also use a third less plastic than Yeo Valley’s current range – that certainly gets our vote! yeovalley.co.uk

SPILL-FREE SIPPING Avoid spills and sticky carpets and help children practise the complex art of drinking from a proper cup with Miniware’s genius 1-2-3 Sip! A unique training cup that helps little users easily transition all the way through the crucial independenceboosting skill. Start with the soft silicone straw and then practise drinking from the lid and spout until finally becoming the master of the real cup. Miniware’s cup is also made entirely from plant-based materials, ensuring it is safe and healthy for child-use and with absolutely no unwanted plastic. amazon.com

BOOTS HAS REFORMULATED ITS KIDS VITAMINS RANGE. IT IS NOW AGE DIVIDED AND EASILY NAVIGABLE TO HELP CONFUSED PARENTS GIVE THEIR CHILDREN EXACTLY WHAT THEY NEED! BOOTS.COM

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AV O C A D O , B R O C C O L I & K ALE POWE R H OUS E PU R É E Preparation: 5 minutes Cooking: 8 minutes Makes 4 portions Suitable from 6 months Not suitable for freezing

Getting your babies used to more bitter and savoury flavours is important in the first year.

This is a powerhouse green purée, with olive oil to add some good fats and flavour.

INGREDIENTS

• 50g fresh or frozen broccoli • 50g kale, tough stalks removed • ½ ripe avocado • 2 mint or basil leaves (optional) • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil METHOD

Steam the broccoli and kale until cooked through, around 6-8 minutes.

Drain the vegetables and blend with the avocado, and olive oil and fresh herbs if using.

TIP:

For older babies, add in some yoghurt or cream cheese and make a delicious dip with raw vegetables.

Truly

scrumptious IN FANT N UTRITIONIST Alice Fotheringham BRINGS H ER AUTUM N FAVOU RITE S TO TH E TABLE

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FOOD

COURGET TE , CAR ROT AN D F L A X S E E D B R E A K FA S T MUFFINS Makes 18 muffins Suitable from 8 months Suitable for freezing Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 25 minutes Packed with veggies and fibre these make great snacks or breakfast.

INGREDIENTS

• 50g ground flax seed • 170ml water • 1 medium courgette, grated • 1 medium carrot, grated • 150ml vegetable or coconut oil, melted • 100ml plant milk or water • 1 banana, mashed • Pinch salt • 1 ½ tsp baking soda • 300g spelt flour • 150g rolled oats • 1 tsp cinnamon • 75g raisins • muffin cases METHOD

Avocados are a tasty source of good fats that mix well with other veg

Preheat oven to 180°C. Mix the ground flax seeds in the water and set aside for around 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, grate the vegetables, and add all the wet ingredients, including the flax mixture, into a food processor and pulse to blend.

Add all the dry ingredients and pulse until it makes a thick batter.

Stir in raisins if desired.

Pour into muffin cases and bake for around 25 minutes.

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FOOD

Crisp and comforting, apples are the perfect autumnal food

C I N N A M O N B A K E D A P P L E S L I C E S W I T H T OA S T E D OAT S Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 30 minutes Suitable for freezing Suitable from 8 months Serves 6

Nothing can be more comforting than baked apples. A perfect pudding or snack on their own or served with yoghurt, toasted oats or ice cream.

• 2-4 tablespoons water • 2 tsp dried cinnamon • 1 tsp dried ginger For the oat topping

• 1tsp cinnamon • 150g oats • 40g melted coconut oil/butter • 1 tbsp maple syrup METHOD

INGREDIENTS:

• 5 large firm sweet apples • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Wash and dry the apples, then cut into 2cm-thick slices. Keeping the skin on is optional.

Place in a lidded baking dish slow cooker, add the rest of the ingredients and toss until apples are coated in the mixture.

Cover the dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until apples are tender.

While the apples are cooking, to make the oat topping, mix all the topping ingredients in a bowl until the oats are coated. On a lined baking sheet, spread out the oat mix and bake in the oven with the apples for 10-12 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.

Once the apples are cooked, let stand for 10 minutes, then gently mix the apples, covering them with the juice that has formed on the bottom. Serve warm with the oat topping.

Alice Fotheringham is co-founder and infant nutritional therapist at Piccolo baby food. Piccolo make a range of 100 per cent organic baby meals, snacks and cooking ingredients to inspire your family to start a lifetime of food adventures. 10% of Piccolo’s profits go to charities that support local families. Visit mylittlepiccolo.com or follow Piccolo on Instagram @mylittlepiccolo

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ENSURE BAG IS TIGHTLY SEALED BEFORE USE

STEAM VENT / POUR SPOUT

NT/ M VE STEA R SPOUT POU

TM

Steam killskills 99.9% of Steamcleaning cleaning 99.9% most harmful bacteria and germs. of most harmful bacteria

and germs.

Works in approximately 3 minutes.

Works in approximately Sterilises baby-feeding items, and 3 minutes. other microwave-safe plastics.

The Re-usable Microwave Steam Steriliser Bag

Can bebaby-feeding re-used up to 20items, times.

Sterilises andProvided other microwave-safe in hospitals, now available to purchase at Amazon, e-bay, and online retailer, www.babytend.co.uk

PLACE MARK IN A BOX AFTER EACH USE This bag can be used up to 20 times 1

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TRAVEL

travel

THIS MONTH W E V I S IT…

Ashdown Park Hotel, East Sussex

NEWS

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

NATALIE KEELER heads to a mansion in the Home Counties

I

n need of a little R&R before your bundle of joy arrives? Nestled in the woodland that inspired A. A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh, this glorious Grade II listed mansion is a haven for those hoping to enjoy their last few weeks in peace.

Standing proudly in the heart of the East Sussex countryside for more than 200 years, Ashdown Park’s neo-Gothic manor house is encased by ancient stone archways, secret gardens and sprawling lawns. Inside, stone fireplaces, polished mahogany and plush furnishings dominate the drawing rooms and reception area.

As we arrive up the long, winding driveaway, we’re instantly struck by just how quiet it is. We’re whisked to our accommodation via golf buggy post-check-in – ideal for guests carrying precious cargo – peacefully breezing past neatly lined rows of trees and manicured gardens. Our junior suite is full of homely charm and, to my partner’s delight, overlooks the golf course, gifting us a spectacular sunrise the next day. If you can bear to skip your lie-in, it’s worth setting the alarm for an early-morning stroll, where you can usually catch sight of grazing deer on the 186-acre estate.

By the time the afternoon rolls around, we’re fully prepped for a pamper at the hotel’s Country Club and Spa, featuring an indoor pool, sauna and steam room, not to mention a sumptuous menu of treatments; there’s even a caviar facial!

For mums-to-be, there’s a selection of relaxing therapies, including a harmony pregnancy massage and an Alpine foot treatment.

The evening feast is when Ashdown Park truly comes into its own, and dining by candlelight, we tuck into Portland crab risotto, beef fillet with black truffle linguini, and a hot mocha fondant with pistachio and salted caramel. Feeling smug and fully satisfied, this weekend has left me in a state of total bliss. Head here on your babymoon, and you’ll be in for a real treat.

Rooms from £199 per night; ashdownpark.com

PRENATAL PICK-ME-UP

Every pregnant mama deserves to indulge a little, right? Head to Palazzo Versace Dubai and you’ll get more than that; the hotel’s five-night babymoon package sees mums-to-be totally spoiled with worldclass pampering, luxe accommodation and exclusive discounts in the Young Versace boutique. Don’t forget to visit the spa, designed by Donatella Versace herself. From £1,379 per person, destinology.co.uk

Bambino Mio’s swim nappies can be used on the beach or in a pool

WATER BABY If you’re jetting off somewhere hot this half term, ensure baby is #beachready with Bambino Mio’s ecofriendly, reusable swim nappies. Made with an ultra-soft terry cotton lining, each design features a mix of vivid reds and ocean blues, with seaside characters and briny details. From pelican and puffin prints to whale and crab illustrations, the nappies also feature a drawstring waistband for ultimate comfort. bambinomio.com

EMIRATES IS THE MOST FAMILY-FRIENDLY AIRLINE, ACCORDING TO RESEARCH

BY PLAYLIKEMUM. THE SURVEY, WHICH CONSIDERED PRE-BOARDING FOR FAMILIES AND PUSHCHAIR COSTS, FOUND THAT QATAR AIRLWAYS ALSO PLACED HIGHLY, WITH KLM AND AIRFRANCE RANKED LOWEST.

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RUNNING HEAD A multi-generational

holiday to remember

SOUTH OF FRANCE

Afternoons were spent enjoying the fabulous pool

EDITOR-AT-L ARGE Kate Freud AN D H ER E X TEN DED FAMILY TAKE A H OLIDAY espite the 3am alarm, a 90-minute drive to Luton airport and all three children vomiting en route, our spirits aren’t dampened by the time we arrive in Nîmes Airport in the South of France.

We drive an hour deep into the heart of wine country – through medieval towns, fields of wild flowers and vineyards galore – to Mas Côte du Rhone, in Sabran, our home for the week, discovered through the excellent travel company Oliver’s Travels.

My husband, Jack, and I are travelling with our three children, my mother, brother and the nanny to celebrate my mum’s birthday, and, thankfully, it proves to be a holiday to remember. Upon arrival in the tiny village of Sabran, we are blown away by the house itself – a stylish space, designed in neutral hues, with traditional wooden shutters and stunning views of the countryside from every bedroom – the children, on the other hand, are all about the pool, swing ball set and table tennis.

There’s everything we could need for the little people on a practical level, too, from highchairs to cot beds and even a kid’s table and chairs. The owner, Nina, (along with Oliver’s Travels, who has a great concierge service) also thoughtfully gives a comprehensive guide to the local area which includes everything from

D

The villa rooms are super-stylish

Swimming superstar!

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markets and restaurants to details of the local doctor, should you need it.

So begins our dreamy week. We head to the local town, Cavillargues, most mornings for coffee and fresh croissants, we walk through the vineyards in the afternoon sun and one day enjoy a fabulous wine tasting with the local winemaker, carrying several bottles of rosé back to the UK. Occasionally, we head further afield, visiting the medieval town of Uzès, the amphitheatre at Orange, and Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie, a town famous for its local pottery studios.

Lunches are spent on the villa’s terrace, enjoying the barbecue and breathtaking views, and for dinner, we venture out to the surrounding local towns most evenings. We particularly enjoy dinner at Ten in Uzès, La Maison in Gaujac (the food was exceptional) and our all-time favourite, the refurbished Château de Montcaud, set in beautiful surroundings with a bistro hidden beneath the dappled shade of majestic oak trees.

A multi-generational holiday can be a tricky affair to navigate but it’s safe to say everybody, from baby Willow to granny, loved their time in Sabran, an area of France we very much look forward to returning to soon.

Prices from £2,688 per week based on 12 people sharing. oliverstravels.com

Georgia and Jago chilled out in comfy surroundings

grabease Available at

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TRAVEL

The great escape Need a quick getaway now the nights are drawing in? Beat those autumnal blues with an end-of-year trip that even baby will love

FOUR SEASONS PRAGUE Czech Republic

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THE FARM AT CAPE KIDNAPPERS

New Zealand

Ready to go long-haul with baby?

Laidback luxury is the name of the game at Cape Kidnappers, and despite its live-off-the-land touches and robust exterior, this working farm lives up to its reputation as a five-star paradise for families; even under-twos stay free. The retreat boasts cosy suites, but those travelling in a larger group can stay in the owner’s cottage, an

exclusive manor with four bedrooms and a whirlpool tub. Babysitting is provided, so treat yourself to a tour and tasting in the wine cellar. Any parent brave enough to face the 24-hour flight here deserves to be rewarded! From £629 per night; robertsonlodges.com

WORDS: NATALIE KEELER

Historic and enchanting, Prague is certainly up there when it comes to European city breaks, and you can see the best of the capital from a height when you check into this chic hideaway. In true Four Seasons style, everything from the marblefloored lobby to the zen-like spa, complete with a vitality pool and spa baths, is plush and luxurious, and upon arrival, smaller guests are showered with treats; expect bathrobes, child-friendly toiletries, homemade cookies, colouring books and toys. Babysitting services are available, too, but tots are welcome to dine with you in the hotel’s Cottocrudo Restaurant, where there’s lots of tasty options for under-fives. Rooms from £283 per night; fourseasons.com

TRAVEL

Little Glen is a fun, safe and fully supervised crèche for two to nine year olds

GLENEAGLES Perthshire

For a generous helping of fresh air, this glorious jazz-age-style sanctuary can be found nestled on the brink of the Scottish Highlands. Children are treated like VIPs at Gleneagles (if in any doubt, the babysitting service here is genuinely called Little Royals), and among its spacious family suites, tot-friendly food offerings and wealth of activities, the creche – Little Glen – is a vibrant treasure trove of play and learning, complete with its very own indoor treehouse. For grown-ups, the ESPA spa is considered to be one of the best in Scotland, and you’ll even find a mini Burlington Arcade of shops on the premises, selling diamonds, luxury handbags and local delicacies.

Rooms from £336 per night; gleneagles.com

THE GROVE Hertfordshire

With its acres of parkland, it’s hard to believe that this bolthole is just a 10-minute taxi ride from Watford Tube Station. And while a peaceful getaway may seem like a pipe dream for some, you’ll find tranquillity in abundance at The Grove.

Little ones are free to play in the crèche while you bask in the spa. Dine at The Stables – where there’s a great kids’ menu – or book a babysitter and head to The Glasshouse for a romantic meal for two.

Rooms from £290 per night; thegrove.co.uk

MARTINHAL CASCAIS Portugal

Any concerns you had about taking baby away will melt away as soon as you arrive at Martinhal. This hotel is an animated children’s paradise, with pools, activities and kids’ clubs to spare. In the restaurant, you’ll find age-structured menus with recommendations for little ones as small as four months, plus freshly made purées for babies to enjoy. There’s also a year-round Baby’s First Holiday package that includes all the tot gear you need, plus two hours of childcare per day. Rooms from £89 per person, per night; martinhal.com

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BOOGIE, BABY!

Under-fives should be doing at least three hours of physical activity per day, according to government guidelines, which is why parents are turning to diddi dance, a national preschool dance class network that encourages toddlers to stay active. Based in over 40 locations across the UK, these classes are an easy way for tots to get moving and enhance their coordination. Head online to check out a video that aims to show parents what to expect from each class. diddidance.com

nursery

LIGHTEN THE LOAD

NEWS

Make going back to nursery that little bit more exciting with an adorable holdall from My 1st Years.

Available with complimentary personalisation, this bag is also the perfect companion for days out and family holidays. Choose from a variety of designs, including a space print or animals. £24, my1styears.com

H ER E YOU ’LL FIN D TH E L ATE ST E AR LY YE AR S U PDATE S

PLAY TIME Ideal for little ones as young as 18 months old, My First Calendar is filled with daily activities that encourage interactive learning. From music and art to French and number tracing, the diary format is a great way to track their progress as they grow, providing a keepsake of memories at the end of the year. You can incorporate each activity into your routine, too, be it over breakfast, after nursery or before bathtime. burtielearning.com

Looking to take your tot out in the capital? Head to Fulham Palace’s recently opened natural play area – a treasure trove of wooden structures and carved logs that children of all ages are free to bounce about on. Let them climb to their heart’s content as they explore the woodland and London gardens, both of which have been designed to spark a lifelong love of nature. fulhampalace.org

NURSERIES AND SCHOOLS ARE BEING URGED BY DENTISTS TO GO SUGAR-FREE IN A BID TO COMBAT TOOTH DECAY IN YOUNG CHILDREN. WITH NEWS THAT 77% OF ONE TO TWO YEAR OLDS FAILED TO VISIT AN NHS DENTIST LAST YEAR, DENTAL SURGEONS ALSO WANT TEACHERS TO SUPERVISE TEETH-BRUSHING.

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Hawkesdown House School

&

The Walnut Tree Nursery For girls & boys from 2 years

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

Rowan Toddler Group

Come along and join in our activities in a welcoming and toddler friendly environment with other parents and carers.

Wednesday mornings during term time from 10am-11.15am.

For further information, please contact Mrs Incledon on 01372 462627.

Rowan Brae 41 Gordon Road, Claygate, Esher, Surrey KT10 0PJ www.rowanprepschool.co.uk The cost per session is ÂŁ2.50

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Boutiques TOBY TIGER, EAST SUSSEX

When it comes to colourful, ethical and organic childrenswear, Toby Tiger has been leading the way since 1998. Instantly recognisable for its rainbow bright colour palette and friendly appliqués, its clothing range is suitable from newborn to age six. Everything is designed with a child’s view in mind, resulting in fun clothes bursting with personality. There are over 500 stockists around the world but only one boutique, which you can find in the vibrant North Laine area of Brighton.

11 GARDNER STREET, BRIGHTON BN1 1UP tobytiger.co.uk

MARSHES & FLINT, NORFOLK

Based at Creake Abbey in north Norfolk, Marshes & Flint is a lifestyle store showcasing some of the best independent children’s brands around. From local names to global labels, shop clothing and accessories, toys and homewares for all ages, with a mix of traditional and modern designs for every taste. The store, which opened earlier this year, has proved wildly popular and little ones love the mud kitchen outside.

CREAKE ABBEY, NORTH CREAKE, NORFOLK NR21 9LF marshesandflint.co.uk

EVE’S TOY SHOP, WALES

A veritable treasure trove for kids big and small, Eve’s Toy Shop in the colourful town of Llandeilo, South Wales, has toys of every kind. Whether you’re after something creative, want to get messy or spark imaginations, you’ll find it here. The owners source products from the best toymakers across Europe, with featured brands including Djeco, Moulin Roty, Haba and Jellycat. Keep an eye on its Facebook page for updates on the latest in-store events, from pet parties to Lego fun.

1 KING STREET, LLANDEILO, CAMARTHENSHIRE SA19 6AA evestoyshop.co.uk

IL GUFO, LONDON

Founded in Italy in 1980, family-run Il Gufo produces clothing, shoes and accessories for both boys and girls from newborn up to age 14. A fine example of Italian craftsmanship, authentic designs are crafted from the very best materials – think organic cotton, merino wool, soft leather and premium cashmere. The core collection for babies this season is inspired by the world that lies beneath the waves, with fish prints, shell embroidery and nautical-inspired checks and stripes.

313 BROMPTON ROAD, CHELSEA, LONDON SW3 2DY ilgufo.com

MILK & HONEY, NORTH YORKSHIRE

Situated in the spa town of Harrogate, Milk & Honey stocks a range of clothes, accessories and toys for all ages. There’s more than 40 renowned labels to browse, from sweet baby clothing to fashionconscious pieces for your teen, and their friendly team is always happy to make your experience as pleasurable and stress-free as possible. They’ll even gift-wrap your purchase should you request it.

Brands include Ralph Lauren, Levi’s and Pepe Jeans.

14-16 CHELTENHAM PARADE, HARROGATE, NORTH YORKSHIRE HG1 1DB milkandhoneykids.co.uk

TREEHOUSE, SCOTLAND

Run by sisters Kim and Sophie, Treehouse is your one-stop shop for kids, set on the banks of the Water of Leith in Edinburgh. As well as a selection of clothes and gifts, there’s a particular focus on children’s shoes, with knowledgeable staff available to help you find the perfect pair for your little one. They offer a hairdressing service, too; from first haircuts to regular trims, the team will transform the experience into a fun activity with car chairs and DVDs. 10-12 HAMILTON PLACE, EDINBURGH EH3 5AU treehousechildrenswear.co.uk

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Boutiques MAMAS & PAPAS, NATIONWIDE

For those who love the Nordic aesthetic, Scandibørn is the name to know. Launched in 2016, the family-run online retailer stocks a whole host of Scandinavian brands, plenty of which are new and exclusive to the UK market. You can shop for everything from clothing and shoes to nursery furniture and toys, with stand-out pieces from Nordic labels, such as Cam Cam Copenhagen and Ooh Noo. scandiborn.co.uk

LUCY & BELLE

After being inspired to set up her own online boutique by the arrival of her twin daughters, Clara Bentata founded Lucy & Belle as a shopping destination for discerning parents. The site prides itself on delivering the best customer experience with an extensive selection of products, from baby clothing and changing bags to outdoor pieces and accessories. Top brands include Pasito a Pasito, Cam Cam Copenhagen and Babidu. lucyandbelle.com

ON LIN E

SCANDIBØRN

ON LIN E

From cots to clothing, pushchairs to playtime accessories, Mamas & Papas is your go-to store for everything you need for baby. Founded in 1981, the business was born out of a desire to better meet the needs of new parents, debuting with a range of coloured prams. Now, 35 years on, and with branches and stockists across the world, we challenge you to leave its boutiques empty-handed.

STORES ACROSS THE UK mamasandpapas.com

IN THE DECEMBER ISSUE OF We take a closer look at non-toxic beauty treatments for expectant mothers Dad-of-three Tom Fletcher reveals his parenting essentials Feeling festive? Where to see Father Christmas both near and far Splash around! We put the best baby baths to the test

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Three wholesome recipes to see you through weaning and beyond

ON SALE

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BUSINESS Katy is so proud that her two little girls love to pretend-play Mummy’s shop

Tell us a bit about the brand – how did it all begin?

When I met my husband, he owned a bar in Manchester called Folk and we lived upstairs. We were always adding to the décor by hand-painting wallpaper or gold leafing the ceiling and that’s where my love for interiors started. After our first child was born, we were in the process of building a second bar and moving into our first home. My eyes were open to lots of beautiful brands for babies, but I was struggling to find crockery I loved or the right bar stools for the projects. By the time our second child was born, we were opening our third wine bar and customers were always asking where we got the chairs from or where they could buy the plates, so it seemed like a logical step to turn it into a business.

What is the brand’s ethos?

I live by William Morris’s motto: ‘Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful’. Folk Interiors is ‘The Simple Way to Decorate Your Space’. I believe that everything you own should spark joy; even the tea towels I

INSPIRE KATY PARKINSON The founder of Folk Interiors talks female role models, nursery inspo and timeless interiors sell feel amazing when I use them.

I also disagree with the ‘throw away’ culture; I want everything bought from my store to be used, loved and passed down.

What advice would you give to someone designing a nursery?

Find a colour scheme you like, and invest in a couple of timeless, high-quality pieces that will grow with your child such as the Oyoy Living Design Rainbow rug. Less really is more when it comes to decorating a sleeping space for a new baby or small child. Don’t Katy is a fan of ‘super-soft’ Swedish Linens bed sets

get too set on your ideas. I had the best-laid plans and then decided to co-sleep, which really works for us as a family.

Do you have a favourite product?

I probably use the House Doctor suede storage box the most, as it’s the perfect size for storing baby wipes out of sight. Another of my favourites are the Swedish Linens bed sets made from organic cotton –they’re super-soft!

What has been your proudest moment in the business?

I love seeing customers return again and again and knowing that I have

Danish brand Maileg, makers of cute little bunnies and mice, is sold at Folk Interiors

brought them joy through the products they’ve chosen. It means so much when a customer sends me great feedback. Watching the girls pretend-play Mummy’s shop and knowing that I am giving them a strong female role model is pretty high up there, too.

How is your home decorated?

It’s calmly chaotic! Probably not what you’d expect; certainly a work in progress. The spaces change from month to month depending on our interests as a family. We love trying out new ideas and experimenting with paint techniques and reclaimed panelling, to see how it might look in the bars.

What’s next for Folk Interiors?

I’d love to open a little shop but I know how that would tie me down. With my girls still so small, I want to enjoy every moment I can with them. Working from home has its benefits. The dream would be to open a boutique hotel and have a concession there selling my wares – that really would be a dream come true. folkinteriors.co.uk

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PHOTOGRAPHY: KATHRYN TRAYLOR PHOTORAPHY

The Oyoy Living Design Rainbow rug is a keepsake piece

INTRODUCING APTAMIL SENSAVIA FOLLOW ON MILK WITH MILK PROTEIN BROKEN INTO SMALLER PIECES *Contains Vitamin D which contributes to the normal function of the immune system IMPORTANT NOTICE: Breastfeeding is best for your baby. Follow On Milk should only be used as part of a mixed diet and not as a breastmilk substitute before 6 months.

Use on the advice of a healthcare professional. Do not use if your baby has been diagnosed with cow’s milk allergy.