Baby London March/April 2015

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FIT FOR A ROYAL

NESTING? HOW TO HARMONISE YOUR HOME AND MINIMISE THE MESS

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MAR/APR 2015

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Merino Kids™ is a 100% natural collection of baby and toddler sleepwear made from the world’s finest Merino wool.

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

Worn next to skin, Merino has the amazing ability to keep a little body dry because it actually draws moisture away from the skin. It has been proven to release and evaporate up to 40% of its own weight in moisture before it feels damp. This unique breathability ensures never getting too hot.

Merino is light to wear, very soft to the touch, fine and nonitchy. It is also hypoallergenic, fire retardant, odour releasing and easy to wash. No wonder they call it nature’s super fibre!

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CONTENTS MAR /APR 2015

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46

FEATURES

30 DUCHESS OF DESIGN We speak with London-born fashion designer Rachel Riley 85 CALL THE MODERN MIDWIFE Summer Litchfield explores the role of the 21st-century midwife 88 ONE DAY YOUNG Photographer Jenny Lewis takes on a five-year project celebrating new life 96 TRAINING FOR FATHERHOOD Olympic gold medallist Greg Rutherford on becoming a dad 100 BRINGING UP BABY LIKE ROYALTY Stress less with a maternity nurse

103 TOASTING A NEW ARRIVAL Sports presenter Alex Payne recalls adding a new sibling to the mix 106 THE WADDLER WAY We catch up with a young couple who left the capital in search of their dream 110 BALANCING ACT How to keep your sanity when returning to work with a new baby 116 ORDER, ORDER Vicky Silverthorn on how to declutter your home ready for a new arrival 142 PLANNING AHEAD How to save money sensibly for your child’s future

147 THE MAGIC OF MONTESSORI Eleanor Doughty explores the popular teaching method

STYLE

44 WHAT KATE WEARS How to dress your bump in style 55 FASHION PREVIEW Our edit from the Bubble Trade Show 56 FIT FOR A LITTLE ROYAL British-inspired fashion for baby 119 NURTURE YOUR NEST How to beautify your nursery 120 BEAUTIFULLY BRITISH Interiors profile on Clair de Lune

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 7

Baby London is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: babylondon.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: editorial@littlemedia.co.uk

30 SHOPPING

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BABY LONDON LOVES Fly the flag with this new set of wheels BEST OF BRITISH Our edit of homegrown beauties SHAKE IT BABY The loveliest silver rattles for baby ALL CHANGE! Our pick of designer changing bags THE REVIEW Resident reviewer Laura Mason puts baby monitors to the test

TRAVEL

130 WIN A LUXURY HOLIDAY Powder Byrne are offering one lucky family the trip of a lifetime 132 BON VOYAGE... WITH BABY! Top travel tips from Smith & Family 136 MARVELLOUS MAURITIUS Travel expert Alice Callandar escapes for a tropical holiday with toddler George

REGULARS

Greg Rutherford an

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BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small 36 BOOKS FOR BABY The very best activity books for baby bookworms 39 MINI AGENDA What’s on in the capital for you and your baby 49 MY ESSENTIALS We catch up with Lisa Levis, the founder of cool British design company Betty & Walter 52 DIARY OF A MUM Becky Dickinson decides to tackle fitness

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TOT GEAR We review the best travel systems FACT OR FAD? Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt discuss topping up your NHS care LABOUR OF LOVE Louisa Van den Bergh explores the unpredictability of giving birth MEET THE EXPERTS Our professionals give advice on bump, birth and beyond HEALTH NEWS Keeping parents in the know BEAUTY INSIDER Jenni Baden Howard shares her pampering secrets WEANING WITH ANNABEL KARMEL Perfect recipes for those first mouthfuls NANNY ASH COOKS Ashley Campion injects some fun into food with her three favourite recipes ALL ABOUT… THUMB SUCKING Dr Runa Mowla-Copley reveals all MEET THE HEAD We talk to Mrs Carlotta T.M. O’Sullivan from Sinclair House School in Fulham GROUPS AND CLASSES A selection of local activities for you and your little one BOUTIQUES Our guide to shopping in the capital INSPIRE We speak to Cecile Reinaud, the founder of British maternity brand Séraphine

Editor Kate Finney Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Editor-at-Large Summer Litchfield Senior Sub Editor Natalie Milner Editorial Assistant Caroline Leeper Editorial Assistant Eleanor Doughty Senior Art Editor Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Emily Weller Designer Brigitta Holmar Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Publisher Annabella Ward Associate Publisher Stephanie Organ Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Marketing Manager Will Delmont Digital Media Manager James Dobson Client Development Manager Lesley McDiarmid Key Accounts Manager Jessica Way Sales Executives Amy Thacker, Coco Strunk, Jane Karger, Katie Amps, Laura Prowse Baby London ISSN 2040-8550 | 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 Southern Print, Dorset ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2015 All rights reserved

SUBSCRIBE Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive three issues of Baby London magazine delivered straight to your door for just £4.95 – PLUS we’ll send you a £20 JoJo Maman BéBé gift voucher absolutely FREE, simply quote the code P501BL when subscribing.

babylondon.co.uk/subscribe 01442 820 580

PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: LOUIS Balmoral Pram, £1450, Silver Cross Pram Embroidered Babysuit, £59, Rachel Riley

Exclusive Luxury Villa Collection Call our concierge team on

0203 608 2715

W W W. E D G E R E T R E AT S .C O M

SMART STYLISH LIGHT ... it’s the IGO

BEAUTY

EDITORʼS

LETTER

In love with British brand Superlove Merino (p.55)

Origami-style muslin comforter fayeandlou.co.uk

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KATE FINNEY, EDITOR

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Join me online…

BabyLondonmagazine

@Baby_London

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UK

Zoo-themed wall chart talltape.com

shiniest new travel systems (p.71) for cruising around the capital.

After his incredible success in the long jump at the London Olympics, gold-medallist Greg Rutherford has been busy with a new project: fatherhood. He’s written a candid account of becoming a father to baby Milo, and how it’s had an impact on his mindset as an athlete (p.96). And in our hugely popular series, Diary of a Mum, Becky Dickinson details her somewhat less successful attempts to achieve sporting glory in her local gym (p.52).

For any mother out there about to tackle weaning, the legendary Annabel Karmel is back with healthy recipes and tips (p.122) that will make mealtimes a joy. Or for those in need of a total break, check out our edit of Mauritius’ most family-friendly hotels (p.136) and then dream of checking-in!

And finally, sit back and savour the sense of calm that runs through photographer Jenny Lewis’ series of intimate portraits of London mothers and their very new babies (p.88). Her admirable project, One Day Young, captures the strength and resilience of women post-childbirth. Enjoy!

KEE

These necklaces are the perfect way to celebrate new arrivals mercimamanboutique.com

Spring is the perfect time to celebrate new beginnings, and I am thrilled to have joined the Baby London team. As a new(ish) mother myself, I’m constantly on the lookout for interesting new brands and always keen to hear the latest health and education advice. As ever, we aim to be one step ahead, and to ensure that sitting down with the newest issue of Baby London is a luxurious treat in itself.

To mark the arrival of a new royal baby, we’re saluting all things brilliantly British. To kick off proceedings we chat to designer Rachel Riley (p.30), the doyenne of traditional childrenswear and founder of the eponymously named fashion boutique, about her meteoric rise from sewing dresses in her attic room to sitting at the helm of a British luxury brand.

Inspired by the Duchess of Cambridge’s perfect pregnancy style, we’ve pulled together a capsule wardrobe of key pieces channelling her look (p.44). And, because it’s the everyday accessories that get the most mileage, we’ve selected the designer changing bags (p.46) with staying power, that will still be coveted long after your baby is out of nappies.

We have shopping pages galore, packed with patriotic products and adorable fashion finds (p.21), as well as revealing reviews of the

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@BabyLondonmagazine

g prepped, Some of our little models bein toshoot pho our at es behind the scen babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 11

BEC KY

R GR E G

Where were you born? Milton Keynes Hospital and then grew up in Bletchley.

First sporting memory? Watching Linford Christie in 1992 win his gold medal in 100m.

Favourite childhood toy? Anything LEGO. Best thing about having a baby? This is a ridiculous answer but… everything. Waking up to him smiling and giving him a big sloppy kiss, which he always turns his nose up at.

Read more of Greg’s fatherly tales on p.108

INSON, JOURN CK I D

IST AL

Where were you born? Melbourne, Australia First fashion memory? Aged five, I used to dress my little brothers in tulle skirts and dresses, and our dog in bow ties and tights.

Favourite childhood toys? Barbies, of course.

Your favourite moment from working with babies? Once a little boy refused to wear any clothes; he would only wear bumble bee wellington boots and his nappy.

See Courtney’s expert styling on p.56

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CONTRIBUTORS

Place of birth? Oakham in Leicestershire.

Favourite childhood toy? Brown Ted, a now bald brown teddy bear.

Best thing about being a mum? So much. I love watching them all sitting round the table and thinking I made those.

Embarrassing mum moment? During a baby massage course, I had to take my son’s nappy off and he projectile pooed all over my leg.

For more of Becky’s mum moments see p.52

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Download our FREE #BabyPodcast from iTunes

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When you’re on-the-go or grabbing a coffee and have a moment to spare, dip in and get your daily digital fix

KEE

BABY LONDON ONLINE

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@shalldor Dad in charge, loving it.

Nothing more rewarding than spending time with you little one @Molly_Gunn Thanks @baby_london for super #mothertee coverage!! #mother #selfishmother #womenforwomen #sharingthelove @LucindaCroft Gorgeous! This is just the sort of thing our bears get up to when no one is looking!

Join in

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

facebook.com/babylondonmagazine twitter.com/baby_london instagram.com/babylondonmagazine babylondon.co.uk

12 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Our Editor took to Instagram to hunt down a replacement Jellycat bunny for her daughter #help

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN

#BLLOVES

Harbour Club harbourclub.com

REFRESHED. TRANSFORMED. REVITALISED. Our clubs have been totally refreshed to provide you and your family with the ultimate destination to workout, play and unwind.

Discover even more for the whole family at Harbour Club.

Visit harbourclub.com/babylondon today.

&

Pre-School Academy

Experience the Difference at The Chiswick Nursery...

Pre-school Book Club

11th February - 15th April

Every Wednesday, 10.30am - 11.30am, the children will be treated to an age-appropriate story and will be able to take part in fun, creative activities inspired around the story

Toddler Exclusivity Taster sessions 5th - 26th March

Fabulous age-appropriate activities, with the emphasis on ‘learning through fun’, will include yoga bears, garden detectives, smoothie making and sensory science. These stay and play sessions will keep your little ones entertained every Thursday 10.30am - 11.30am

The Chiswick Nursery 4 Marlborough Road Chiswick W4 4ET

Baby Health Clinic

24th February - 31st March

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To learn more about our tailored packages for every stage of the early years curriculum, download your invite at

chiswick.busybees.com

Introducing a new childcare concept built on over 30 years’ experience

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A complimentary six week Baby Health Clinic with our in-house Paediatric nurse is available for parents within the community every Tuesday between 10am - 12pm

Come and view our bespoke and sensational new look

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baby

NEWS

NEWS

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

STELLA LINEGERIE FOR MOTHERS

At times, pregnancy can feel anything but glamorous, and scouring the shops for something to make you feel better about your blooming shape, and dare we say it, something to spice things up a bit, can seem a fruitless venture. Thankfully, one of the world’s chicest designers has come to the rescue of fashion-conscious mothers.

Launching in 2015, Stella McCartney’s Spring/ Summer lingerie collection now includes her Reilley Adoring set, a feminine but totally functional maternity bra and bikini brief. Don’t let the beautiful lace and silk detailing fool you, this set was designed first and foremost for breastfeeding and features a drop-down cup for nursing, adjustable straps and soft-stretch fabric for comfort. Having had four children “I really knew what was lacking”, commented the designer, “and I want to be able to provide all those elements: a maternity bra that allows you to feel feminine, sensual and attractive but at the same time allowing you to provide what you need for your child”. We completely agree, McCartney’s done a Stella job! stellamccartney.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

TRUTH BE TOLD Covering topics from labour to breastfeeding, twins to IVF, weaning to post-birth sex, Things I Wish I’d Known is a reassuring, moving and often hilarious collection of stories from writers and celebrities who reveal the truths of what it’s really like to be a modern-day mama. Totally indispensible and enlightening.

(Icon Books, £9.99)

ge ensures that Stella McCartney’s new ran s lingerie riou luxu y enjo can mothers

#SAFERSLEEPWEEK THE LULLABY TRUST IS LAUNCHING THE FIRST NATIONAL SAFER SLEEP WEEK. DESIGNED TO RAISE AWARENESS OF SLEEP PRACTICES THAT CAN REDUCE THE CHANCE OF SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME, THE CHARITY WILL BE OFFERING ADVICE TO NEW AND EXPECTANT PARENTS FROM 16-23 MARCH. LULLABYTRUST.ORG.UK

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 15

20% OFF

NEWS

EXCLUSIVE OFFER One of our French favourites, Petit Bateau, has been busy creating their cutest collection to date.

Expect to see whimsical little petticoat-dresses rub fashionable shoulders with bright, quirky prints. Baby London readers can enjoy an exclusive 20% off in Petit Bateau UK stores and online with free delivery.

Simply use code 20SS15 – très bien! petit-bateau.co.uk *Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or on sale items.

ROYAL CARE

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall officially opened The Poundbury Fertility Clinic at King Edward VII’s Hospital in central London. Designed to be the capital’s premier fertility centre, the Clinic will offer patients a balance of conventional medicine alongside complementary therapies to treat a variety of conditions. thepoundburyclinic.co.uk

EGG-CITING EASTER READS… Join Bunny and her friends in this delightful spring read. The bright artwork, finger-holes and cheerful rhyming story of My Little World: Egg will keep your little chicks entertained.

(Little Tiger, £5.99)

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ETHICAL STLYE

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If you’re searching for a guiltfree childrenswear label that uses 100% organic, fair-trade cotton, then look no further than Pigeon Organics. Their recently extended collection includes little daywear pieces for babies and children featuring sweet prints inspired by nature, promoting their admirable environmental values. pigeonorganics.com

BE IN THE BEST SHAPE POSSIBLE DURING YOUR PREGNANCY WITH THE NEW ONLINE FITNESS SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE FROM AWARD-WINNING PREGNANCY AND POSTNATAL FITNESS EXPERT DR JOANNA HELCKÉ. THE PERSONALISED MEMBERSHIP DELIVERS WEEK-BY-WEEK PREGNANCY AND POSTNATAL FITNESS VIDEOS THAT ARE TAILORED TO SUPPORT YOUR CHANGING BODY DURING PREGNANCY, BIRTH AND BEYOND. MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION IS £12 | JOANNAHELCKE.COM

16 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

www.ilovegorgeous.co.uk T: 0844 371 3301

Primrose Dress coming soon...

beautiful clothes for gorgeous girls 0-13y

NEWS

RELAX & RETREAT If you’re needing a moment of peace, try the ultimate postnatal retreat at the Manoir La Croix de la Jugie, a beautiful 18th-century manor house in the Limousin region of France.

Enjoy six nights with partner and new arrival in tow, with a specialised fitness programme and a calming pool in a picturesque setting. £1250 per family for the week | lajugie.co.uk

IT’S OFFICIAL! THE NATION’S FAVOURITE NURSERY RHYME IS TWINKLE TWINKLE LITTLE STAR… AN ONLINE SURVEY BY MUSICAL MINIS, WHO RUN CHILDREN’S MUSIC AND SINGING CLASSES ACROSS THE UK, SHOWED THAT IT’S THIS TWINKLEY CLASSIC THAT HAS WON THE NATION’S HEART.

DOODLE CABOODLE Mamas & Papas’ new signature edition of their ‘Family Caboodle’ Armadillo City lets you bring 60s style to London’s streets.

Echoing the era’s famous Pop Art doodles, the ‘Family Caboodle’ features handdrawn characters with bundles of personality and a funky neon lime handle. mamasandpapas.com

READY TO EAT…

If time is a precious commodity, then you need these freezable little cubes of goodness in your life. Made from 100% organic ingredients, KiddieCubes wean babies onto solids in a healthy, tasty and wholesome way. kiddiecubes.com

A MATCH MADE IN TOY HEAVEN To celebrate our favourite bunny’s 60th anniversary, heritage bear manufacturer Steiff has collaborated with Miffy to launch this charming, limited edition cuddly toy. £169 | steiff.com

WIN WITH METANIUM To celebrate the launch of Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion – the latest addition to the Metanium family – they are giving away two Little White Company Noah’s Ark Patchwork Cot Quilts alongside a sample of Metanium’s Easy Spray. In a handy, easy-to-use spray: the new double-action lotion protects and moisturises your baby’s skin whilst also helping prevent nappy rash by forming a barrier that guards against irritants like urine and dirty nappies. It’s quick, convenient and simple to use, providing a light, even coverage. Plus, there’s no need to rub the water-free lotion in, so application is extra-kind to sensitive skin. metanium.co.uk | babylondon.co.uk/competitions

18 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Whether you’re looking for a first stroller for a new baby, or downsizing for an older one, we know you want your little one to be as well protected and comfy as possible. That’s why we’ve created the Armadillo Family, five designs for all kinds of lifestyles.

For mums and dads who want one stroller that does it all, we’ve created the revolutionary Armadillo Flip. The most compact fold out there, whichever way the seat is facing, it’s travel system ready and gives your baby plenty of shelter and wriggle room from birth. The groundbreaking design lets you fold it forwards or backwards into the most ultra-compact size there is. And if you prefer a little more comfort from your ride, Armadillo Flip XT comes equipped with all the extras you need.

The original Armadillo itself is also ready to go from birth. With the perfect balance between compact and comfy it’s ideal for parents looking for a simpler second stroller. And with the slimline Armadillo City and well-equipped Armadillo XT to choose from too, there’s an Armadillo for everyone.

armadillo family Call in store or go online for a demonstration at mamasandpapas.com/armadillofamily

because we’re family

BABY STYLE

L VES

Mini Motor

Little ones can scoot in style with the latest set of wheels from wooden toy company Jamm Toys. When the April showers pour, the Jamm Scoot Union Jack is perfect for indoor fun.

Riders must be 12 months plus.

Priced ÂŁ56 | jammtoys.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 21

Nursing Bras

The

Seamless Collection

comfortable - confident - complete

Aida is wearing the confetti seamless bra and panties in plum

seamless print

bliss

sweet pea

body silk seamless

available at John Lewis and leading stockists - www.bravadodesigns.com

SHOPPING

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BRITISH

Our Great British style edit for the patriotic mini in your life 4

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1 London Building Blocks £24.50, lankakade.co.uk 2 Guardsman Set £135.00, uk.burberry.com 3 T-Shirt £16, lillyandsid.com 4 Powell Craft Hanger £4, childrensalon.com 5 Personalised Cushion £52.95, nurserywindow.co.uk 6 Muslin Swaddle £12, piccalilly.co.uk 7 Quilted Jacket £32.95, joules.com 8 Grand Old Duke of York Set £18, nrmshop.co.uk 9 Suede Fringe Moccasins £35, monkeyandmole.com 10 Crown & Star Bib £13.50, mini-la-mode.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 23

SHOPPING

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1 Gingham Romper £21, piccalilly.co.uk 2 Soldier Bookends £30, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com 3 Horse & Carriage Romper £36, mini-lamode.com 4 London Bus Suitcase £25, cathkidston.com 5 Powell Craft Raincoat £32, childrensalon.com 6 Beefeater Teddy £29.95, britishteddies.com 7 Princess Crown Dress £35, rachelriley.co.uk 8 LittleChook PJs £24, notonthehighstreet.com 9 Pram Print Bloomers £22, rachelriley.co.uk 10 Crown Rocker £561, gigibrooks.com 11 Socks £5, cathkidston.com 12 British Appliqué T-Shirt £14, boden.co.uk

24 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

BABY STYLE

English Trousseau silver-plated rattle £39.95 | harrods.com

SHAKE IT BABY

Silver Groves sterling silver Victorian-style rattle £162.99 | silvergroves.co.uk

The loveliest rattles for your little one

Carrs of Sheffield sterling silver chime rattle £379 | harrods.com

1920s antique silver acorn rattle £130 | thevintageweddinglist.co.uk Silver Groves sterling silver teddy bear rattle and teething ring £195.99 | silvergroves.co.uk

Lily Blanche sterling silver vintage baby rattle £145 | lilyblanche.com

DID YOU KNOW? Sterling silver is naturally anti-bacterial and cool to touch, making it the traditional choice to soothe gums and entertain babies

Mappin & Webb daisy dish £495 | mappinandwebb.com

SAY IT WITH SILVER Tiffany bows frame set £470 | tiffany.co.uk

26 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Mappin & Webb brush and comb set £350 | mappinandwebb.com

Asprey egg and soldiers set £1,125 | asprey.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY. BETSY WEARS AMAIA

Mappin & Webb sterling silver rattle £175 | mappinandwebb.com

Victoria Highfield sterling silver teddy rattle £175 | victoriahighfield.com

SILVER CROSS SURF, ASTON MARTIN EDITION THE ULTIMATE PRAM SYSTEM FROM TWO BRITISH ICONS

Limited to 600 pieces worldwide Find out more at www.silvercrossbaby.com

Only available from Harrods

PROFILE

30 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

FEATURE

Duchess of

DESIGN Rebecca Moore M E T LON DON-BOR N FASHION DE SIGN ER Rachel Riley TO FIN D OUT ABOUT HOW SH E WENT FROM SEWING IN H ER AT TIC TO DR E SSING MINI ROYAL S

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 31

PROFILE

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When I arrive at Rachel Riley’s Marylebone High Street store, I’m greeted by the designer herself, whose international profile has rocketed since Prince George was photographed wearing the label’s dungarees on the royal tour of New Zealand in 2014.

She is impeccably dressed in tailored trousers, which, paired with an immaculate 50s-style hair-do, creates an aura of retro chic. Born in the 60s in London, Rachel flourished at school, excelling academically – her creative side seemed more of a hobby than a future career path.

“When I was at school, at the time, we still did needlework and dressmaking. I studied this as an O-Level and absolutely loved it,” she explains. Although Rachel left school to read Social Anthropology at the University of Cambridge, she was always being creative. “Back then there was much more of a culture of making things, it was very much “make do and mend,” Rachel says. “My mum knitted, my grandmother knitted, but I made more creative things. I’d make Paddington Bear some elaborate pyjamas, I made things for myself, and I remember my mum’s friend had a baby and I was paid £100 to make four dresses,” she explains.

It wasn’t until Rachel was studying at Cambridge that a real interest in fashion sparked. She signed up to a model agency after a friend had told her she had “model looks”. “As a teenager you don’t really know what models are, and what

My only problem was I always wanted to participate and be more involved, but I just had to sit there really,” she laughs.

After completing her degree Rachel was drawn to Paris once more, taking a year off to model. During this whirlwind, Rachel met her now husband, photographer Daniel Jouanneau, best known for his Chanel perfume bottle shots. The pair met on a Marie Claire photoshoot, and enjoyed a transatlantic affair, living between Paris and New York. But as much as they both loved life in the fast lane, the couple very much wanted to settle down and start a family. They married, and when pregnant with their first son Felix, they bought their idyllic rural family home in the Loire Valley.

The family soon grew and little Felix was swiftly joined by brother Alfie and later, sister Rose. “As a family, we lived a very much a make-do lifestyle like in times gone by. We made fires, baked our own bread, made our own jams. I made a lot of the children’s clothes too. It was a very rural lifestyle,” reminisces Rachel. “My husband has kept all of the smock dresses I made Rose. I chose the colours, the patterns, and they’re smocked all across the chest. I’m so scared that those old-fashioned techniques are going to die out.”

As her brood got a little older, Rachel felt unqualified to fulfill their learning needs, so she decided to study the Montessori approach to education, gaining a diploma.

But this wasn’t the only thing keeping the former-model busy. Another baby had been born – her eponymous childrenswear company, which was launched in 1994.

Beginning with a mail order catalogue, which she sent out to all of her friends, her first collection comprised traditional and charming children’s clothes, modelled by her children, and photographed by her husband.

“It started very simply – I put together a collection of around 30-40 pieces, which I made. They were comfortable, pretty items using luxury fabrics but at the right price,” explains Rachel.

In their house Rachel set up a 1940s-inspired workshop in the attic, which became the creative hub of the business. Her favourite era is from the 1920s to 1960s when most children’s clothes were made at home. “I’m not stuck in a time warp, and I certainly don’t want to be in some BBC period drama, but I love the creativity of an era gone by, and things being made in a beautiful way,” she explains.

The catalogue experiment took off, and very quickly Rachel knew she had a business on her hands. “The press went wild!

We were in American Vogue, House and Garden – they loved our fairytale existence. I suppose we had a certain je ne sais quoi,” says Rachel.

After making everything to order from her workshop for the first few years, Rachel knew she needed to employ some help.

Historically, the Loire Valley in France is regarded as a sewing

“EVERY CHILD IS THEIR MUM AND DAD’S PRINCE OR PRINCESS AND THE HERITAGE COLLECTION WAS A CELEBRATION OF NEW LIFE” makes a model, but I was a student and really needed the money. We had such long holidays so I thought I’d give it a go.

It actually took off really well.” In her first year Rachel went to Paris, later travelling to Japan and south east Asia.

With this hectic life Rachel didn’t stop making things either.

“I’d take my knitting along to the photoshoots. And I bought myself a sewing machine with my modelling money when I was about 18.” Rachel would still go to flea markets and vintage stalls for inspiration and was never far away from her knitting needles. But modelling proved to be a valuable insight into the industry. “Being a model is like being a fly on the wall. I did work for Kenzo, Agnès B, Marie Claire and Vogue. It was great.

Nobody would normally show you this insight into the fashion business, but as the model you’re the star. It’s a great life.”

“There are lots of early mornings, but models have it really easy. It’s a dream job – you get paid, you travel and it’s creative.

32 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

area, so she was able to employ talented local seamstresses.

As the children grew, both Rachel and Daniel knew they needed more formal schooling. “Felix was seven or eight years old and needed a proper education. I didn’t love French school, and felt quite strongly about my children having an English education,” says Rachel. “I love English schools, I love the formality and structure, and the uniform.”

In 1998 the family left France for London, setting up their first store on Pont Street, in Knightsbridge. They moved into the flat above the shop and the children went to Hill House School nearby. “During term time we’d be in London, and in the holidays we’d go back to France. It was really fun actually,” remembers Rachel. The shop was an instant success, and a second shop was opened two years later on Marylebone High Street. In addition, the business has taken off internationally, with a boutique in New York and offices in Hong Kong.

The Rachel Riley range is now stocked across the world in some of the most prestigious department stores, including Harrods, where, in 2012, to mark the Diamond Jubilee and London Olympics, Rachel was asked to create a special display to showcase her quintessentially British brand. “That summer we had a lot of fun, we made it look like Brighton beach! We used pretty picnic baskets, blankets, flasks and of course our clothing. It was a great time to be British and we’ve now been on a roll for about five years.”

When it was announced that the Duchess of Cambridge was pregnant with her first child back in December 2012, Rachel realised this could be a great opportunity for her business. “What’s been fun about having a small company is that we’re quite agile and can be reactive. As soon as we heard [about Kate’s pregnancy], I thought it was the perfect creative moment – an opportunity

Sailboat Dungarees, beautifully modelled

by Prince George

to become inspired about a whole layette collection,” says Rachel, knowing that a project like this had great potential. “I got really excited. I knew if I could design a collection quickly enough and showcase at London’s childrenswear fashion trade show, Bubble London, in January, then customers and stockists could have it in June, ready for the arrival.” Her foresight, from years of working in the business paid off: “The idea was so good, everybody had confidentiality agreements.”

The Heritage collection launched early in the summer of 2012. Quite clearly London-inspired, the range includes everything from babygros decorated with adorable toy soldiers, to bloomers with crown prints. “It wasn’t about dressing the new prince or princess, you can’t plan that,” explains Rachel. “But every child is their mum and dad’s prince or princess and it was a celebration of new life.”

The launch of the Heritage collection has been a pinnacle point for the Rachel Riley brand, and it wasn’t long before the inevitable royal seal of approval came. Aged just eight months old, third in line to the throne Prince George was spotted wearing the traditional Sailboat Smocked Dungarees on tour in New Zealand. That day will be hard to forget. “It was an extraordinary day, never in my career had I experienced anything like it. The phone rang over 100 times. I was in America at the time, and I appeared on the evening news, and on radio talk shows. It was mad,” remembers Rachel.

Of course, with another royal baby on the way, the merriment continues. “I’m excited about the next royal baby as I love seeing a family grow. If it’s a boy I’m interested to see if they do any matching outfits, and if it’s a girl I can't wait to see how they dress her,” enthuses Rachel. And as the latest Spring/Summer collection prepares to drop into stores, there is a nod to this sentiment with lots of beautiful baby clothes for both sexes. “I loved having boys and a girl. Fashion-wise, boys are harder to get right, whereas girls have more choice. I like to think we’re quite good at covering both boys and girls.”

The family business has clearly rubbed off on her children. “Funnily enough they’re all on the edge of being in the fashion industry and are all quite creative,” Rachel says. Her eldest son Felix, 25, has trained as a shoemaker, while Alfie, 24, is a fashion student and Rose, 22, who studied textiles at A-Level, has now started working in the childrenswear buying office at Selfridges.

It’s clear that Rachel’s enthusiasm for the brand, 20 years on, still burns strong. Now employing 25 people, she’s often the first in and last out. “I like to lead by example, with my team and my family. Leading with enthusiasm is the best way. I love inspiring people, and I hope I’m inspirational,” she says.

Traditional in her styles and values, Rachel Riley is looking forward to a prosperous year ahead. “I feel like we’re only at the beginning. The whole retro thing is now fashionable so we’re one step ahead. A journalist once said to me, ‘oh you’re so on trend at the moment’ and I said, ‘actually everyone has just caught up with me’.” We couldn’t agree more. rachelriley.co.uk

34 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: PRESS ASSOCIATION

PROFILE

books for baby IT’S TIM E TO TU R N TH E PAGE S, LIF T TH E FL APS AN D TOUCH ALL TH E DIFFER ENT TE X TU R E S. Emma O’Donovan SELEC TS TH E BE ST AC TIVIT Y BOOKS FOR TH E SMALLE ST OF BOOK WOR MS

MIFFY AND THE ROYAL BABY Dick Bruna

Available from 26 March, you and baby can celebrate the arrival of the new royal baby with this lift-the-flap book. Enjoy a visual treat, from tasty sweets to extravagant elephants, as you help Queen Miffy search for the perfect present for the royal baby.

Dick Bruna’s iconic illustrations are great for capturing attention, while the sturdy pages and rounded corners are brilliant for little hands. And let’s not forget that there’s another celebration this year – Miffy turns 60 on 21 June. Happy Birthday Miffy!

(Simon & Schuster Childrens Books, £5.99)

36 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

BOOKS

Nosy Crow create playfu lly clever, interactive books with chunky sliders

HUGLESS DOUGLAS FINDS A HUG David Melling

A heart-warming journey to discover the perfect hug. Hugless Douglas comes to life with an integrated hand puppet guiding the reader through the story.

jungle creatures hidden under camouflaged flaps. Meet a cheeky banana-throwing monkey and a playful lion about to pounce.

(Caterpillar Books, £6.99)

TURN!

Lucy Neale

This fold out playmat features vibrant illustrations, introducing the outdoors, snuggle-time fun and bath time.

This clever and unique book includes a durable press-out spanner for your little one to use to help James fix the playground. A perfect way to unlock imaginations and encourage youngsters to engage with storytelling – with beautiful illustrations throughout.

(Puffin, £8.99)

(The Five Mile Press, £5.99)

SNIP SNAP POP-UP FUN

BABY’S VERY FIRST NOISY BOOK – TRAINS

(Hodder Children’s Books, £10.99)

SPOT’S TUMMY TIME POP-UP PLAYMAT Eric Hill

Jonathan Litton and Kasia Nowowiejska

A joyful rhyming text complemented by a series of robust and characterful pop-up

A collection of five recognisable trains, from steam trains to tubes, illustrated in a bright and engaging style. Easy-to-turn pages feature

sturdy tabs and prompt readers to explore five immersive and highly satisfying sound buttons.

(Usborne, £9.99)

chums and meets some rather interesting characters along the way. Benji Davies has a charming style which appeals to parents and children alike.

THERE’S A PANDA IN MY PICNIC

(Nosy Crow, £4.99)

Jo Lodge

THAT’S NOT MY FOX

A hilarious series of board books for the very young featuring clever attention-grabbing slider mechanisms. Discover crazy creatures in the most unexpected and unlikely of places.

There are five fantastic foxes to meet as readers search for the right one in this fun, touchy-feely book. Explore furry ears, rough noses and fuzzy paws. The bright pictures, textured patches and simple, repetitive text will engage even the youngest of babies.

(Nosy Crow, £4.99)

BIZZY BEAR DINOSAUR SAFARI Benji Davies

The latest in the bestselling Bizzy Bear series, with chunky sliders to push and pull, these robust little books are perfect for active toddlers. This time Bizzy embarks on a dinosaur safari with his

(Usborne, £5.99)

MIX IT UP!

Hervé Tullet An endlessly exciting exploration of colour and the strength of the imagination. Appeals to babies, toddlers and older siblings alike.

(Chronicle Books, £9.99)

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 37

For children who love science & numbers, Little House of Science is a place for children to learn, experiment, explore and play!

3-8+ years

What is Little House of Science?

Weekly science workshops in Central London for kids (3-8+ years) where they learn about Life, Earth & Physical science.

2-3 years 3-4 years

What is Little Maths, Rhythm & Shapes about?

Weekly classes present an exciting concept for kids aged 2-3 & 3-4 years to begin their journey with numbers, with a combination of music, shapes and colours to aid the learning process.

Visit us at www.littlehouseofscience.com & join our weekly pre and after-school science and maths club: Kensington & Chelsea, Notting Hill, Fulham, Chiswick & Swiss Cottage - Ages 3 to 8+ - interactive with experiments - fun & exciting!

T: 0800 092 1062, info@littlehouseofscience.com, www.littlehouseofscience.com

38 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

mini

AGENDA

L i a n n e K o l i r i n R O U N D S U P T H E C A P I TA L’ S B E S T E V E N T S

THE PARTY: 500 YEARS OF HAMPTON COURT PALACE Come and celebrate Hampton Court’s 500th birthday by exploring the palace at night before experiencing a stunning Son et Lumière show projected on to the south facade of the palace. This never-before-seen event will race through the last five centuries of history at the palace, finishing with a spectacular fireworks display.

Good Friday 3 April to Easter Sunday 5 April, 6.30pm to 9.00pm. Admission: £10 child, £22 adult and £50 family.

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, KT8 9AU | 0844 482 7777 | hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 39

OUT AND ABOUT

Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom CBeebies Live! presents Justin & Friends: Mr Tumble’s Circus THE SSE ARENA Arena Square, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0AA 0844 815 0815 ssearena.co.uk Join Mr Tumble and others from Something Special in this arena spectacular. See presenters Cat Sandion and Swashbuckle’s Gemma Hurt, in their first CBeebies Live! show.

Admission: £16.75 to £29.50.

Saturday 4 April at 1.30pm and 4.45pm, and Easter Sunday 5 April at 11am and 2pm.

HACKNEY EMPIRE

291 Mare Street, London E8 1EJ 020 8985 2424 hackneyempire.co.uk In this new musical adventure, Ben and Holly have fun helping Gaston clean up his messy cave.

They go on a trip to The Big World with tooth-fairy Nanny Plum and plan a surprise for King Elf’s birthday. Packed full of games, songs and laughter, this is an enchanting family stage show.

Admission: £13.50 to £15.50.

Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 April

Tales Big Day Out CHICKENSHED THEATRE Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 4PE 020 8292 9222 chickenshed.org.uk

Tales Big Day Out is an enjoyable outing for the whole family. Children will have the opportunity to take part in a great interactive workshop and watch a fun performance of Tales from the Shed, followed by an extravaganza in the amphitheatre.

Admission: £8 or free to babies under one year.

40 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Saturday 18 April, 10am to 12.30pm.

Baby & Toddler Show SANDOWN PARK Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9AJ babyandtoddlershow.co.uk The Baby & Toddler Show is the ultimate event for new and expectant parents in London and the South East, with everything you need to give your baby the best start. All areas of birth, feeding, sleeping, nutrition, finance and more are covered at the free expert advice workshops.

Admission: advance tickets £10, £12 on the door. Children go free.

Friday 17 to Sunday 19 April, doors open at 10am and close at 4pm on Friday, and 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Guess How Much I Love You DISCOVER – CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE

383-387 High Street, Stratford, London E15 4QZ 020 8536 5555 discover.org.uk

at 12.30, 2.30 and 3.30pm; Sensory Storytime on Saturday and Sunday at 12.30, 1.30, 2.30 and 3.30pm.

Discover is celebrating the 20th anniversary of beloved picture book Guess How Much I Love You. Don your Nutbrown Hare ears, make a new Easter basket and follow the Easter bunny’s trail to find a chocolate treat.

Admission: children and adults £5, Newham residents £4.50, and under-twos go free.

Good Friday 3 to Bank Holiday Mon 6 April; Storybuilder sessions on Friday and Monday

Toddler Time on board the Cutty Sark SAMMY OFER GALLERY Cutty Sark, King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 9HT 020 8312 6608 rmg.co.uk/cuttysark The world’s most famous tea clipper the Cutty Sark is dedicating Wednesday afternoons to its youngest visitors. Bring your little sailors along to Greenwich for songs, stories and playtime on board.

Suitable for ages four and under. Stay a little longer to explore and walk underneath the 963-tonne ship in the dry berth below.

Admission: activities free with entry which is £7 for children, £13.50 for adults and underfives go free.

Wednesday 4, 11, 18 and 25 March, 2pm to 4pm.

OUT AND ABOUT

There is plenty for children of all ages at Eddie Catz. There’s a padded baby area and a toddler-only soft play area, bouncy chairs, dressing up, regular classes, nappy changing facilities and everything you need for a fun day out.

Admission: under ones go free.

Other prices depend on height of the child and session time.

Putney: Monday to Saturday at 9.30am to 6pm and Sunday at 10am to 6pm. Wimbledon: daily at 9.30am to 6pm.

Eddie Catz PUTNEY First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street, London SW15 1SF WIMBLEDON 42 Station Road, Merton, London SW19 2LP 020 3475 5268 eddiecatz.com

Albee Vector the Sound Collector THE VAULTS Leake Street, Waterloo, London SE1 7NN vaultfestival.com Part of the Mini Vault festival, this production is perfect for

Tiny Explorers at Kensington Palace KENSINGTON PALACE

Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX 0844 482 7777 hrp.org.uk/ KensingtonPalace Explore the palace with other toddlers aged up to four-yearsold, and discover the fascinating stories of Kensington Palace through music, movement, messy play and more.

Admission: £6 per session and booking is essential.

Most Wednesday and Saturday mornings throughout March toddlers. It is an interactive children’s show in which the audience must make noises and collect them in jars to help Albee tell his tale of love and adventure and a sound-hoover called Mustard. Also features soft play areas and a storytelling corner at the festival.

Admission: £8.

Saturday 7 March at 10.30am.

The Bee’s Knees

The Amazing Bubble Man ARTSDEPOT

5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, London, N12 0GA 020 8369 5454 | artsdepot.co.uk Louis Pearl is the world’s leading Bubbleologist and has been delighting audiences for nearly 30 years, making square bubbles, spaceship bubbles, edible bubbles and more.

Admission: £10 to £12.

Tuesday 31 March, 11.30am and 2pm

BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5TN 020 7223 2223 bac.org.uk Step into a bright and buzzing indoor space filled with activities and games for children aged zero to five and parents. It looks almost like a scene from the Teletubbies and has plenty of space for little ones to practise crawling, walking and climbing through their daring attractions. There is also a great café for coffee.

Admission: £2.75 per child and under-ones go free.

Open at different times each day, see website for details.

Maggie & Rose Kensington Club MAGGIE & ROSE 58 Pembroke Road, Kensington, London W8 6NX 020 7371 2200 maggieandrose.com The wonderful girls at Maggie & Rose are now running classes for children aged six months to nine years. They offer all sorts of term time activities, as well as holiday programmes, including art cooking, music and ballet classes, plus there’s a treehouse-inspired soft play area, a cinema, a Wii and a café with delicious, healthy nibbles.

Admission: entry on membership basis. See website for details.

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 41

OUT AND ABOUT FIN D Y OU R

E A ST E R

Easter Eggstravaganza at Willows Farm

E VE NTS

WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM

Coursers Road, London Colney, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 | willowsactivityfarm.com A ‘choc-a-block’ programme of farmyard fun, adventure play and egg-citing Easter events. Visit the Easter Garden to take part in Willows’ Easter Egg Hunt and join in the bunny hunts around the farm with chocolate treats for all children who take part. All activities, shows, funfair rides, inflatable fun and adventure play are included in the entrance price.

Admission: children £11.50, adults £10.50.

Saturday 28 March to Sunday 19 April, 10am to 5.30pm Easter trail at Kensington Palace

Good Friday 3 to Easter Monday 6 April, 10am to 6pm.

KENSINGTON PALACE Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX 0844 482 7777 hrp.org.uk/ KensingtonPalace

Easter holidays at Discover

Take part in this Easter hunt with a difference. Discover a trail through the beautiful palace gardens, with lots to see and do at Kensington Palace.

Kids go free and there are also activities available to download online and take with you.

Admission: children go free, adults £16.50, and a reduction is available if booking online in advance.

HERE

Baby Loves Disco is transforming London’s coolest nightclubs into childproof discos, featuring club DJs mixing classic disco and pop tunes.

Parents can socialise with a drink from the licensed bar and listen to some proper tunes while the kids go gaga on the dancefloor. Come along for this special Easter-themed event.

Admission: £9.95 in advance or £32.96 for a family of four.

Saturday 28 March, 1 to 3pm.

DISCOVER - CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE 383-387 High Street, Stratford, London E15 4QZ 020 8536 5555 discover.org.uk Explore the Story Trail, Garden and interactive exhibition, Once There Was... The Wonderful World of Oliver Jeffers, then join Discover’s Story Builder featuring favourite authors and illustrators, such as Emily Hughes and poet Joe Coelho, plus enjoy the return of the Where’s Wally? Weekend.

Admission: children and adults pay £5, Newham residents £4.50 and under-twos go free.

Friday 3 to Friday 17 April.

Baby Loves Disco’s Big Easter Bash DNA LONDON 1 St Johns Hill, Clapham Junction, London SW11 1TN 07968 535 707 babylovesdisco.co.uk

Shaun and the flock spring into Kew Gardens KEW GARDENS

Kew, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 3AB 020 8332 5655 | kew.org Aardman’s world famous sheep is flocking to Kew Gardens with an exciting range of family fun for this spring. This Shaun the Sheep themed spring salute will celebrate the beauty of nature, with a really exciting schedule of events. Follow Timmy on the Spring Lamb Springtime Trail or see how the sound effects for the Shaun the Sheep film were created with The Vegetable Orchestra. Other family activities include: welly wanging, the Sheep Hopper Maze and sheepdog trials.

Admission: adults £15 and under-16s go free.

Saturday 28 March to Sunday 12 April.

See website for more details

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 43

BABY STYLE

Belvedere Clutch £89 | hobbs.co.uk

Trench Coat £79 | topshop.com

Embellished Midi Dress £60 | asos.com

Breton Stripe Top £20 | asos.com The Naomi Madderson London dress sold out just hours after Kate had been spotted wearing it

Madderson Coco Dress £180 | maddersonlondon.com

Zella Wedges £170 | lkbennett.com

Stretch Maternity Toothpick Jean £145 | jcrew.com/uk

Kateʼs

PICK

Satin Swing Tee £32 | topshop.com

Love Necklace £6,800 | cartier.co.uk Knot Front Dress £49 | seraphine.com

Mimi Envelope Clutch £145 | russellandbromley.co.uk

Kateʼs

PICK V-necks are great for flattering your shape 44 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Canvas Bow Classic Navy Ballerinas £89 | shoetherapy.com

BABY STYLE Grey Dress £30 | next.co.uk

Cressida Trousers £49 | seraphine.com

Hazel Clutch £45 | kurtgeiger.com

See by Chloé Petal Puffball dress £295 | blossonmotherandchild.com Lace Bodycon Dress £40 | asos.com Pale shades are perfect for spring

Wide Fit Nude Heels £18 | marksandspencer.com

WHAT KATE WEARS A ROYAL WAR DROBE THAT IS FIT FOR A DUCH E SS

Swing Coat with Funnell Neck £85 | asos.com

Mama Jeggings £14.99 | hm.com/gb

Isabella Oliver Libby Tunic £80 | johnlewis.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: PRESS ASSOCIATION

Katie Unstructured Shopper £195 | russellandbromley.co.uk

Voltage Lace Up Sneaker £135 | russellandbromley.co.uk

Kateʼs

PICK

Blue Topaz and Diamond Drop Earrings £3,200 | kiki.co.uk babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 45

BABY STYLE

Storksak, Catherine ÂŁ255 | storksak.com

46 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

BABY STYLE Kate Spade, Classic Nylon Brynne £285 | katespade.co.uk

DON’T FORGET

to check the storage options, can you realistically fit everything in?

External pockets are great for keeping those fast grab bits and bobs.

Anya Hindmarch, Oakley £595 | childrensalon.com

Pink Lining, Notting Hill £69 | pinklining.com/uk

Silver Cross, Elegance £80 | johnlewis.com

Roberto Cavalli, Brown Leopard £265 | childrensalon.com

ALL CHANGE! Pacapod, Madison £299 | pacapod.com

Armani Junior, Polka Dot £210 | harrods.com

Give your baby essentials a stylish home with a bag that’ll last for life

Burberry, Quilted £550 | burberry.com

LOOK OUT FOR...

Fendi, ‘FF’ Brown £711 | childrensalon.com Marc by Marc Jacobs, Elizababy £310 | harrods.com Hugo Boss, Fleece £179 | houseoffraser.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: NICHOLE REES

water-resistant, wipe down fabrics when selecting your bag. They are essential for spillages or when you’re caught in April showers.

Baby Beau, Ellie £199 | baby-beau.com Young Versace, Gold Medusa £264 | childrensalon.com Rebecca Minkoff, Marissa $345 | shopbop.com

Storksak, Lucinda £175 | storksak.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 47

Elite Infant Wellbeing Consultancy

A Premier Infant Advisory Service Specialising in:

*Newborn, Infant and child sleep *Weaning *Play and Development *Preparation for parenthood *Parenting & Behaviour management *Pre and post pregnancy health and ďŹ tness *Advice on fussy or unsettled infants Contact us for a Free 10 minute consultation www.elitewellbeingconsultancy.co.uk

Available exclusively at

48 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

INTERVIEW

MY ESSENTIALS LISA LEVIS

How are you finding life as a mum to little Edie?

It’s pretty amazing. I am so in love, thoroughly enjoying every minute and constantly moving from a state of total elation to mega mum-worry that I am somehow failing even though I’m doing everything as best I can – as I am sure most mums do.

Edie is changing so quickly and it is wonderful to see. Oh to see life through the eyes of a child, it is so refreshing that nothing else matters but the here and now.

Her facial expressions are the best thing in the world.

When you were pregnant did you discover any unexpected, can’t live without products?

Corn Flakes and toasties.

Bio Oil is also amazing, and I loved my L-shaped cushion and drawstring trousers. And for after pregnancy, coffee.

Mother to Edie, and founder of British design company Betty & Walter, Lisa Levis shares her motherhood must-haves and nursery know-how Where do you like to shop for your daughter?

Zara Mini for the cutest clothes, Molly Meg for cool stuff, H&M for organic cotton essentials, M&S for their sweet leather pram shoes, IKEA for the best kids’ toys and Mini Boden for tights and swimming cossies.

What items do you keep in your changing bag?

I’ve been very lucky to discover that lots of my toiletry bags and pouches have come into their own when organising the baby bag. I use a Meringue double toiletry bag for nappies and wipes on one side, a change of clothes

on the other (for Edie, not for me), and nappy bags in the middle.

Two Pineapple Souffle make-up bags, one for first aid essentials: Bonjela, Calpol, teethers, nappy cream and Vicks VapoRub and one for lunch, snacks and bottle.

This is all chucked into a Treacle Toffee tote alongside a few toys, a blanket and of course a changing mat. And my wallet, keys, phone and water.

pictures for the wall. The room is quite small so I painted two chunky stripes of French grey and white horizontally across the walls to give a larger sense of space. The wardrobe and cot are white, and we painted the G-Plan sideboard in a super bright grass green. The curtains are a Lisa loves playing dress-up with Edie

Being a textile designer it must have been exciting kitting out Edie’s nursery.

It was too exciting. I made a plan, I wanted it to be a neutral canvas so I could splash blocks of bold colour all over the place by way of accessories, furniture and

ist Toy time… Lisa can’t res A IKE to trip a

babylondon.co.uk MAR/APR 2015 | 49

INTERVIEW

ily Enjoying quality time with fam

Lisa lovingly made the curtains for Edie’s nursery

Betty & Walter print Pink Pepper, Puddle from a couple of seasons ago – she loves them. Then I have adorned the rest of the walls with posters I made, inspired by some 1950s German domino cards I found at a flea market years ago.

Edie had a quilt made for her too by her great aunty, from a mix of bright coloured and vintage kids’ fabric I had collected over the space of 15 years, and finally got put to good use. I have the same rocking chair my mother used to feed me and my sister on and Mr Levis fixed up lots of chunky hooks around the place for clothes and coats.

Edie also has a great collection of A room full of colour, even down to Edie’s adorable M&S pram shoes

50 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

original The Garden Gang books which her daddy collected for her as he loved them when he was little.

Naming your business after your aunty and uncle must mean your family is a big part of it. Has Edie filled you with inspiration too?

Edie inspires me every day in one way or another. I sent her off to play today wearing a rather cool peach tights and mustard shoes combo. I can’t wait until the cutting, sticking, doodling and making stage. I am also thoroughly enjoying letting my creative juices loose on the odd costume for her.

Would you like to do a children’s range?

It is something I am often asked, but the company is still very young and it’s not a direction I necessarily want to take for the Betty & Walter brand at the moment. I am, however, working on a collection of changing bags, which is really exciting.

I love the fact that our products are so easily

adaptable for mums to use, and don’t necessarily look like ‘specific’ changing bags.

What has it been like for you juggling your own business and a very young family?

Edie has certainly brought about a great work-life balance for me and the juggling is tough but hugely rewarding too. The forced ‘step away’ gaps from work seem to actually really benefit the work focus. I always did find it hard to take a break, so she has definitely taught me that. Luckily for me she seems to enjoy what I do as much as me, and whilst she often looks at me with a rather baffled face when I am doing phone interviews she does love all the colour, pattern and stuff that comes with being a designer. I am very lucky, indeed.

When do you find the time to escape? And if so, where can you be found?

Weekends and small breaks have become really important

idays, Ready for the summer hol sies cos en’s Bod i Min es Lisa lov

and I am keen to cram in as much quality family time as possible. We love taking breaks on the south coast with blustery walks along Camber Sands or hanging out in Whitstable. Plus pottering at home, cooking, gardening and trips to the swings. Later this year we’re taking Edie on her first trip to Portugal and can’t wait to see her reaction to the feeling of sand in between her toes and bobbing about in the pool.

What’s in store for Betty & Walter this year?

Well you can expect new prints, new shapes, new products for spring/summer and then more in the autumn with a grand plan of (fingers, legs and arms crossed) opening a ‘Shoffice’ later in the year. A place to house Betty & Walter as a fabulous shop with the HQ out the back. bettyandwalter.com

mum DIARY OF A

Part 11

MUM- OF-TH R EE Becky Dickinson EM BAR KS ON A N EW H E ALTH R EGIM E, AN D TH EN HAS SECON D TH OUGHTS here comes a point when you can no longer blame the wobbly bit around your middle on reproduction. Baby A has just turned two and I don’t think there’s any such thing as ‘toddler weight’, apart from polishing off half-eaten fish fingers. Meaning it’s either genetic, or I eat too much chocolate. I’m guessing the latter.

My only consolation is that Unhusband has also developed a matching midriff so now we have His and Hers wobbly bits and he definitely can’t blame it on reproduction.

Being there for the conception doesn’t count.

One of the annoying things about Unhusband is that he has way more willpower than I have.

So when he announces he’s going to do the 5:2 diet, I know that means he’s going to do the 5:2 diet. This means he will definitely shed the non-baby weight while mine will continue to provide a source of amusement to the kids, whose current bedtime routine involves singing ‘Mummy on a plate’ to the tune of Jelly on a Plate while wobbling the squidgy bit above my jeans. That’s not something I’ll be sharing on Facebook.

Anyway, the next morning Unhusband comes downstairs and starts tapping the contents of his breakfast into a ridiculous app he’s downloaded which tells him precisely how many atoms of saturated fat, dietary fibre – and probably oxygen – he’s allowed to consume in one day.

It’s way too technical for me, and phones are banned at the table. Besides, there’s no way I could survive on a small poached egg and half a glass of orange juice without passing out on the school run. Instead, I dollop some syrup on my porridge and resolve to join the gym.

Oh hang on, I already did about five months ago. Better change that resolution to: start actually going to the gym. The trouble is, cavorting around after three children during the day means I can’t go until Unhusband is

T

52 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

BABY TALK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

THE CARDIO ROOM LOOKS ABOUT AS TEMPTING AS TIDYING THE KIDS’ BEDROOM. I’D RATHER WADE THROUGH PILES OF LEGO back from work in the evening – by which stage I’m already knackered. Still, the thought of Unhusband losing five kilos before me spurs me on.

I drag myself along and try not to look like the newbie. The cardio room looks about as tempting as tidying up the kids’ bedroom.

Actually, I think I’d rather wade through piles of LEGO, soft toys and dirty socks, than jump on any of the torture devices on offer.

I ignore the treadmills laughing at me on the back row and give the rowing machines a wide berth too. Which basically leaves the bike or the cross trainer. I opt for the cross trainer, at least I can pretend I’m doing something fun like skiing.

Once I get the hang of the weird elliptical motion thing, it’s not too bad. Maybe I’m not that unfit after all, I think, hopefully.

Then suddenly, a message flashes across the screen: Attention: heart rate high! OMG, even the cross trainer is worried I’m going to have a premature cardiac arrest. Better get off then.

Trying to disguise my alarm, I mention it to one of the members of staff.

“Oh, it’s probably just to do with your age,” she reassures me. Charming! So in my (extremely early) forties, I’m already an insurance risk. I decide to give the bike a go instead. At least I can sit down for that one.

After 10 minutes I’ve had enough. It’s not that I’m (particularly) out of breath, it is just so boring. Could there be anything more pointless in life than cycling nowhere while watching Kirstie Allsopp 10cm from your face on a screen with no sound because you have forgotten to bring any headphones?

What’s more, after 10 minutes of working up a sweat, the bike display tells me I’ve used just 67 calories. What? That’s not even a Jammie Dodger – 85 calories in case you’re wondering. And as for a KitKat Chunky, don’t even ask, unless you’re thinking of doing the Tour de France.

I faff around on the weight machines for a bit, but it has been so long since I’ve used them that I can’t really remember what to do, except for the thigh trainer. There’s something rather undignified about opening and closing your legs and grunting like that in a public.

Not quite as undignified as giving birth perhaps, but at least you’re guaranteed to lose a few pounds after doing that.

When no one’s looking I finish my workout (I use the term loosely) with a few sit-ups. I use this term even more loosely; it seems I left my stomach muscles somewhere in the labour ward and sit-ups no longer work. I try the plank instead, then realise my top isn’t tucked in and my jelly belly is hanging down for everyone to see. Oh well, at least I’ve got three children to show for it (and about 300 stretch marks.) And that ‘Mummy on a plate’ song really is quite amusing.

Suddenly I have the urge to be back home, to kiss them all goodnight and marvel at their cuteness (always easier when they’re asleep).

Perhaps I’ll forget the gym and embrace my wobbly bits instead.

Skipping the shower (I didn’t really get that sweaty) I make a quick exit before the personal trainer woman can ask how my “workout” went.

By the time I get home, Unhusband is stretched out on the sofa, fiddling with his phone again, no doubt trying to eke out some extra calories, having eaten only the prescribed number of chickpeas and a few cherry tomatoes since breakfast.

“I'm starving,” he moans.

“Me too,” I reply.

There’s a silent stand-off as we wait to see who will be the first to cave in to this new health regime. “Is there any pizza in the freezer?” asks Unhusband.

Want to read more on Becky Dickinson’s family life? Visit babylondon.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 53

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54 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

fashion

PREVIEW

OU R FAVOU RITE N EW BRITISH DISCOVERIE S SPOT TED AT BU BBLE, TH E IN DUSTRY TR ADE SH OW SUPERLOVE

BLUEBIRD

What began as a hobby – styling bodysuits into cupcakes – is now a fully-formed business offering super-sweet, creative gift ideas.

Also on offer are sock cakes and sleepsuits packaged as milkshakes.

Larger gift sets, like this Candy Corner Luxury Newborn Gift Set (£54.99), include a selection of goodies. bluebirdshop.co.uk

Founded by two new mothers in the Lake District in 2012, Superlove is passionate about the powers of merino wool. With a range of sleeping bags and clothing for newborns to six year olds, the products are all proudly made in Britain using wool from ‘happy sheep’. We salute the simplicity of the clothes and the sleeping bags’ original prints (£69). superlovemerino.com

A brand new range featuring the prettiest dresses, floral blouses and matching bloomers, as well as velvet coats and faux-fur collars. Everything is hand-made in Britain and finished with lace and velvet trims, Peter Pan collars and puff sleeves.

Definitely one to watch. lolamyer.co.uk

LOLA MYER UK

EARLY DAYS

By no means a new business – brothers Tony and Michael Bolton founded the company back in 1952 – Early Days’ little leather shoes shot to worldwide fame after Prince George was spotted wearing a pair. Cleverly combining classic style with top-notch British craftmanship, we love the beautiful practicality of these shoes. earlydays.ltd.uk

TEDDY & ME With a focus on babies born too soon, Teddy & Me was set up by the mother of a premature baby who found it hard to find clothing for babies weighing less than 8lbs. The first range was so popular that the designs now come in larger sizes, too, and are stocked internationally. The cotton used is eco-friendly and ethically produced in order to ensure the softest fit for new babies. teddyandme.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 55

FIT FOR A e l t t i L ROYAL PHOTOGR APHER : KEN COPSEY ST YLING: COURTNEY ROBINSON

T H A N K S TO: P H OTO G A S S I S TA N T: M O D E L S: LO C AT I O N :

Louis wears Cardigan, £37.95, Bonnie Baby at Little Concept. Shirt, £25, Patachou. Bowtie, £22, Billiebandit. Blue Shorts, £55 as part of shirt and short set, Rachel Riley.

Socks, £12, Petites Pattes.

‘Tiny’ Closed Leather Sandals, £59.50, Step2wo.

THIS PAGE Flynn wears Soldier Intarsia Cardigan, £105, Rachel Riley. Chino Shorts, £50, Polo Ralph Lauren. Shirt, £45, Polo Ralph Lauren.

‘Ewan’ Pre-walker Loafers, £49.50, Step2wo. Louis wears Thumper Jumper, £60, Stella McCartney. T-Shirt, £35, Paul Smith Junior. Shorts,

£31.99, Chateau de Sable.

Socks, £12, Petites Pattes.

Moccasins, £35, Monkey & Mole. Betsy wears Floral Organza Baby Dress and Bloomers, £179, Chloé.

Prams: Balmoral in White, £1450 and Oberon Dolls Pram in White, £300, both Silver Cross.

RIGHT Flynn wears Soldier Print Babygro, £42, Rachel Riley.

Bears: Bespoke Giant Bear, price on request, Steiff.

Nutcracker Bear, £160, Steiff.

LEFT Flynn wears London Shirt, £69 as part of dungaree set, Sue Hill. Chino Trouser, £50, Polo Ralph Lauren. Baby Sneakers, £78, Hugo Boss.

ABOVE Rose wears Amelie Hand Smocked Dress, £60, Annafie. Scarlet Hair Clip, £3, Verity Jones London.

Maria Shoes, £119, Vevian.

Martha wears Linen Flower Dress, £44.99, Chateau de Sable. Little Bird by Joules Shoes, £15, Mothercare.

Scarlet Hair Clip, £5, Verity Jones London.

THIS PAGE Martha wears Navy Bow Dress, £43, Annafie. Maria Shoes, £119, Vevian.

Peacoat Hair Clip, £5, Verity Jones London. Flynn wears Marching Soldier Smocked Romper, £44.99, Amelia Brennan.

LEFT Betsy wears Spot Bodice Dress and Bloomers, £86, Hucklebones. Cashmere Rosebud Shawl, £169, Sue Hill. ‘Rachel’ Rag Doll, £39, wears Princess Gown Dolly Dress, £49, both Rachel Riley.

THIS PAGE Louis wears Billy Dungarees, £30, Elfie. Cardigan, £46, Petit Bateau at Little Concept. Otto Shirt, £26, Elfie. Sandals, £38, Sun San Shark Sandals at Charley Mouse.

STOCKISTS: Amaia amaiakids.co.uk Amelia Brennan ameliabrennan.co.uk Annafie annafie.com Charley Mouse charleymouse.co.uk Chateau de Sable chateaudesable.co.uk Chloé chloe.com Elfie elfielondon.com Hucklebones hucklebones.co.uk Hugo Boss hugoboss.com Little Concept littleconcept.com Monkey & Mole monkeyandmole.com Mothercare mothercare.com Patachou patachou.com Paul Smith paulsmith.co.uk Petites Pattes petitespattes.co.uk Rachel Riley rachelriley.co.uk Ralph Lauren ralphlauren.co.uk Silver Cross silvercrossbaby.com Steiff steiff.com Stella McCartney stellamccartney.com Step2wo step2wo.com Sue Hill suehillhandknits.co.uk Verity Jones verityjoneslondon.com Vevian vevian.co.uk

SPECIAL THANKS TO PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: HARRY SLEIGHTHOLME, LOCATION: BAGLIONI HOTEL LONDON and MODEL AGENCIES: BRUCE AND BROWN, GRACE AND GALOR, URBAN ANGELS. MODELS: BETSY, FLYNN, LOUIS, MARTHA and ROSE.

LEFT Martha wears Amelie Hand Smocked Dress, £60, Annafie at Childrensalon.

‘Sarah’ Mary Jane Shoes, £69.50, Step2wo. Amethyst Hair Clip, £2, Verity Jones London. ‘Riley’ Bear, £39, wears Teddy Prince Outfit, £59, both Rachel Riley.

THIS PAGE Flynn wears Marching Soldier Smocked Romper, £44.99, Amelia Brennan.

BEAUTY

1

Get ready for the Rugby World Cup

3

2

4

5

TINY TRAINERS

SHOP THE SHOOT

6

With red, white and blue making the perfect palette… now your little one can look the part too with our edit of classics 8

7

9

Converse Star Trainers £25 | johnlewis.com 1. Mock Braces All in One £22, mamasandpapas.com 2. Shiffly Shirt Dress £18-£19, mothercare.com 3. England Rugby All in One £12, mothercare.com 4. Scallop All in One £22, mamasandpapas.com 5. V-neck Cardigan £12.95, gap.co.uk 6. Princess Lana First Walking Shoes £40, startriteshoes.com 7. Smock Dress £36, mamasandpapas.com 8. Cable Knit Leggings £9-£10, johnlewis.com 9. Four Piece Tweed Set £48, mamasandpapas.com 10. Gingham Romper £19.95, gap.co.uk 11. Tux Bib £6, mamasandpapas.com 12. Suede Loafer £12.95, gap.co.uk

Xplorer Arctic £30 | bobux.co.uk

10 11 Baseball Boots £10 | johnlewis.com

68 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

All set for a royal banquet

12

Bouncer Balance Soft www.babybjorn.com This product features the characteristic BABYBJĂ–RN parallel line design.

REVIEWS

TOTGEAR

AF TER VARIOUS FLINGS WITH DIFFER ENT PUSHCHAIR S, Georgie Soskin IS AF TER A TR AVEL SYSTEM THAT TICKS ALL TH E BOXE S

iCANDY STRAWBERRY 2

Georgie’s son Wilbur snuggles up in the Strawberry 2

Believe it or not this is actually our seventh buggy. In my four and a half years of being a mother we have tried and tested a lot. Some good, some bad. I have two boys (Olly, four and a half and Wilbur two and a half) and a very new little girl, Lily, who’s just a month old.

For me, the buggy needs to be lightweight, doesn’t require the “driver” to hold an A-level to get it in and out of a car or to swap seats, easy to steer, wipeable and robust. Fingers and toes crossed the iCandy Strawberry 2 delivers and we can stop at pushchair number seven.

THE LOW DOWN

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVEABILITY

COMFORT

The Strawberry 2 is the second generation of this pushchair, with improved modifications across the board on the hugely popular Stawberry. Suitable for a newborn or toddler, the clever seat frame can be used for both the seat unit and carrycot. Impressively, the pushchair also remembers the recline position; even after it has been folded the pushchair will automatically open in the same position. Plus the unique one-hand step and stand fold system provides swift collapsing – making it a great travel companion.

It’s a good size, feels robust and has great non-burstable wheels, which can easily take on different terrains from pavements to sandy beaches – important if this is going to be your go-to buggy. It’s great at steering and seems fully “wipeable” because let’s face it pretty much everything from dirty nappies to raisins are going to come in contact with it. It was great that we could attach our pre-existing car seat to it; we have a Maxi-Cosi, so this way you don’t have to wake baby up. It also has an easy-to-locate brake pedal which is practical when you’re in a rush and don’t want to be finding some awkward little lever. The main handle bar is easy to steer and you can adjust the height. My only gripe would be that due to the wheels being plastic and brilliantly nonburstable the lack of suspension means it can be a bit bumpy on some terrains.

It was very comfortable in the bassinet for Lily, I know this because she was sound asleep for the entire test drive. Wilbur, my two and a half year old, tried out the main seat and loved it too – he looked very comfortable.

The seat has easy buckles for fastening them in and a good range of positions from reclining to sitting straight up, which is useful for when they are younger.

GOOD LOOKING? It looks really smart. The bassinet looks incredibly comfy too, padded inside and generally cosy – I was instantly very impressed. Overall, I think as buggies go it’s pretty top notch in the looks department.

THE VERDICT? Overall, the Strawberry 2 is a good and easyto-use buggy – it’s certainly my favourite to date. iCandy have really thought of everything and it’s a great option for a first child. I think we might finally have found our perfect, and hopefully last, buggy.

Priced £550 | iCandyworld.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 71

REVIEWS

UPPABABY CRUZ

NUNA IVVI

The latest offering from Nuna is the ivvi, a multimode pushchair that sees you through right from the first outing until the pushing days are over. Hugely flexible, you can fold it with the seat on or off. We also love the flat seat, so little riders can sleep in style and comfort. £600 | nuna.eu

JOOLZ GEO

Coined as the pushchair ‘for every family adventure’ the newest addition to the stylish Joolz clan is the Geo. Designed to expand as the family grows, the Joolz Geo is available as a Mono, Duo or Twin configuration. The Geo is manoeuvrable, easy to handle, safe and comfortable, with a cool urban feel.

From £799 | my-joolz.co.uk

The new-look CRUZ offers an even smoother ride with new AirGo wheels that mimic the cushioned feel of an air-filled tyre. Although compact, it also feels spacious and the large basket is easy to reach. The CRUZ is a great all rounder, effortlessly combining functionality with style. £449.99 | uppababy.co.uk

Get the

GEAR

Jellycat Elephant Chime £12 | johnlewis.com

London Life Footmuff £68 | bettybramble.co.uk

Busy Lizzie Pram Organiser £19 | pinklining.com

CYBEX PRIAM

A travel system that’s really making our heart sing is the newly launched Cybex Priam.

Being a homage to Californian designers Charles and Ray Eames, design has been put at the forefront with the Priam.

It’s a masterpiece of art and a pleasure to push.

Frame £510, seats prices vary | cybex-online.com

Deluxe Parasol, Teal £29.95 | mamasandpapas.com

CHESTNUT T WEED - URBO² With chestnut leather styling and luxury copper highlights, this tweed-inspired design is quintessentially British, and unmistakeably Mamas & Papas. in store and on line

mamasandpapas.com/ chestnut-tweed-urbo2 Join the social conversation

UNIQUE DUTCH DESIGN

Top quality nursery furniture and accessories

••• Kidsmill Baby Nursery is a Dutch company that specialises in the design and sale of furniture of outstanding quality for your baby’s nursery and teenager’s bedroom. The Kidsmill collection is sold worldwide through a carefully selected network of dealers. For more information and to find your nearest dealer please go to www.kidsmill.co.uk

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW IT’S GADGE T TIM E – Laura Mason PUTS TH E BE ST BABY MONITOR S TO TH E TE ST Best for

VIEW Best for

SOUND

Best for

Best for

CALM

VALUE Best for

TECH MOTOROLA

MBP36S Digital Video This monitor features a first-rate 3.5" LCD screen that provides a colour image with infrared night vision. It has an impressive 300 degree viewing angle and a motorised pan, tilt and digital zoom so parents can safely monitor from afar without disturbing baby.

Extras include an inbuilt thermometer, music and two-way communication. £159.99 | kiddicare.com

TOMMEE TIPPEE

Closer to Nature DECT Sound and Movement Baby Monitor This not only picks up sound, but also features a sensor pad – place under your baby’s mattress to monitor her movement and it raises the alarm should a lack of activity be detected. Sensitivity can be adjusted alongside the sound monitoring for ultimate reassurance. £99.99 | toysrus.co.uk

TOMY

BABYMOOV

BT DIGITAL

This is a fantastic walletfriendly monitor that delivers a great product at a low price. Using DECT technology, it can take a little fiddling but with 120 channels you will soon have your pick of clear sound channel of up to an impressive 350m with 100% privacy. It even boasts a night light and handy belt clip to make it fully mobile. £39.99 | tomy.com

This intuitive monitor takes things to the next level with great high-tech features that you will love to play with. Featuring handy voice-activated controls, video recording and image capture, programmable alarm and motion detector, as well as built-in night light and lullabies, it’s one of the most advanced monitors on the market. £159.99 | babymoov.co.uk

This HD sound monitor not only aids parents in the safety stakes, but has a multitude of options to help baby drift off to sleep. Our favourite is the lightshow that projects a display of mesmerising stars and moons, while there are 18 musical options including nursery rhymes, classical and white noise. The soft glow acts as a night light, too. £54.99 | shop.bt.com

TF500 Digital Monitor

Touch Screen Baby Monitor

Baby Monitor 350 Lightshow

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 75

Fast-track your child’s healthcare When it comes to making children better, The Portland Hospital has the highest levels of paediatric expertise and the most advanced technology in the UK. Discover how your child can benefit from the country’s leading experts in children’s health today.

Story by Stacey Jackson

S

hould your child get ill, the best person to treat them is a leading paediatric consultant experienced in their condition.

Our dedicated children’s unit is home to the largest group of private paediatricians in the UK, covering over 50 different clinical specialties. They are among the best in the world at diagnosing and treating both common and complex childhood conditions from birth to the age of 18. Using the very latest technologies, they treat over 40,000 children each year, ranging from routine check-ups to extremely rare and complex cases.

Many of our consultants hold senior posts at leading NHS trust hospitals such as Great Ormond Street Hospital and St Mary’s Hospital. They’re supported by a team of experienced children’s health professionals, including specialist children’s nurses and play specialists.

We don’t treat any adult patients in our children’s unit, so your child’s hospital experience will be completely tailored to their needs. We find that this can relieve your child’s anxiety about visiting a hospital and help them to make a speedy recovery.

When you’re thinking about private healthcare for your child, safety will of course be an important consideration.

Do bear in mind that some private hospitals don’t offer any on-site critical care facilities. Our children’s unit is fully equipped with the latest medical technology and facilities. Should the need arise, we have a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and a Special Care Baby Unit staffed by a dedicated team of critical care experts.

You’ll be pleased to know that you won’t need to join a queue for this exceptional service. Our convenient and rapid appointments give your child the care they need at a time that suits your family and your lifestyle, including during the summer holidays so none of the new school term will be missed.

Rapid appointments Don’t wait. For same/next day appointments, including evenings and Saturdays, call 020 7390 8020.

Why we’re the UK’s number 1 private children’s hospital * The largest group of private paediatricians in the UK * Leading experts in common and complex childhood conditions * Full critical care facilities * No waiting lists * Same/next day, evening and Saturday appointments * Part of HCA Hospitals, which has invested £500 million over the last ten years in the latest technologies and facilities You don’t need medical insurance to take advantage of our world-class facilities, and our prices are very competitive. An initial consultation to assess your child’s condition and determine the best course of action only costs approximately £250.

To find out more, call us now on

020 7390 8020 Or visit www.theportlandhospital.com

part of HCAHospitals | World-Class Healthcare

Vitabiotics With you every step of the way When it comes to your baby only the No.1 for pregnancy will do.

Helping to make healthy mums and babies over the last 25 years, Pregnacare® has always contained the recommended level of folic acid† and is supported by unique clinical research with mums-to-be1,2. In fact, it’s the pregnancy multi-vitamin brand that UK midwives recommend most††. Trust Pregnacare® for the most important time of your life.

Most recommended by midwives, most trusted by mums††

BEFORE CONCEPTION Pregnacare® Before Conception

ADPRGRANGEP 05-01-15E

Carefully balanced formulation of vitamins and nutrients, including 400mcg folic acid; the exact level recommended for all women who are trying to conceive.

ALL OF PREGNANCY Pregnacare® Original

19 vitamins and minerals, including 400mcg folic acid and 10mcg vitamin D3, the exact levels recommended by the Department of Health.

Pregnacare® Plus

Dual pack of Pregnacare® Original plus Omega-3 capsules with 300mg DHA which contributes to normal foetal brain and eye development.*

NEW MUM Pregnacare® Breast-feeding

Includes the recommended levels of 10mcg vitamin D3 and 300mg DHA; the level recommended for mums during lactation.3

From Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores & www.pregnacare.com Folic acid contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Pregnacare® has always contained 400mcg folic acid, the level recommended for all women from the start of trying to conceive until the 12th week of pregnancy. ††For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended 1Agrawal, R. et al. Prospective randomised trial of multiple micronutrients in women undergoing ovulation induction, Reproductive BioMedicine Online December 2011. 2L Brough et al. Effect of multiple-micronutrient supplementation on maternal nutrient status, infant birth weight and gestational age at birth in a low-income, multi-ethnic population. British Journal of Nutrition (2010), 104, 437-445. 3Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol.18, No.5, 487-489 (1999). *A beneficial effect can be obtained from a daily intake of 200mg DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg DHA / EPA for adults - Annex of Commission Regulations (EU) No. 440/2011. ‡UK independent sales value data. (IRI 52 w/e 6th Sept, 14). †

HEALTH

your final scan would be at 20 weeks. A late scan will check the baby is growing nicely, that the placenta looks healthy and is working properly and will check the amount of amniotic fluid. They might also do a Doppler scan to check the blood flow in the umbilical cord. Cost: around £150.

• The Medical Chambers Kensington themedicalchambers.com • Fetal Medicine Centre fetalmedicine.com • Ultrasound Diagnostic Service uds.uk.com

Fact or Fad?

Complementing YOUR NHS CARE Dr Chiara Hunt AN D Marina Fogle OF TH E BUM P CL ASS INVE STIGATE or the majority of women, the cost of having a baby privately are too high to even consider. But it’s not an all or nothing choice. Many women find supplementing the brilliant NHS care with private services enhances their experience, without the £10,000+ price tag.

F

ROUTINE SCANS The NHS routinely offers scans at 12 weeks and 20 weeks. While these are excellent, you could consider doing them privately as well as supplementing them with a couple of extra scans, in the early and late part of your pregnancy. Privately, you can choose a time convenient for you and your partner and, because there are fewer time and cost constraints in the private sector, the experience is often more special.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

EXTRA SCANS AND TESTS ✽ Fetal viability scan at six to 10 weeks: This will check that the embryo has implanted correctly and, although your baby will still look like a bean, from around 7 weeks you’ll be able to hear a heartbeat. This scan is often done internally. Cost: around £100.

Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), commonly known as the brand name

✽

Harmony. Not available on the NHS, this test detects the baby’s DNA in the mother’s blood and can detect chromosomal abnormalities of the foetus, more accurately that standard screening tests. Because the results take two weeks, this is often done at 10 weeks so that parents have the results by the 12-week scan.

Cost: around £500, including the 12-week scan. ✽ Late scan: There is mounting pressure for a late scan to be included routinely in NHS care, but currently, unless there are problems,

GROUP B STREP Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacteria that can cause illness in people of all ages. 10-30% of pregnant women carry this bacteria without having any symptoms.

If you are GBS positive, and it is not treated in labour, there is a one to two per cent chance of your baby developing a serious, occasionally life-threatening infection.

The NHS treats women with antibiotics if they have any signs in labour that they might be infected or be at increased risk of transmitting the infection to the baby.

However many obstetricians feel that it is safer to screen all women at 35-37 weeks for the infection and treat in labour if necessary.

We encourage Bump Class girls to consider being screened privately. The test is a simple vaginal and rectal swab that you do yourself at home. The Doctors Laboratory offers an efficient postal service that costs about £35.

• The Doctors Laboratory tdlpathology.com/gbs The Bump Class | thebumpclass.com

EXTRA SUPPORT ✽ INDEPENDENT MIDWIFE Continuity of care has long been shown to be hugely beneficial for pregnant women.

Hiring an independent midwife to help look after you in your pregnancy will enable you to get to know and trust someone before labour starts. They perform most of your antenatal checks at your home and will be with you during labour. Cost: £4,000.

• Kensington Midwives kensingtonmidwives.com • Neighbourhood Midwives neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk

✽ MATERNITY NURSE A lot of women say the NHS is brilliant… until the postnatal ward, which can sometimes feel chaotic. After a straightforward labour, the hospital might offer you a six hour discharge. Most first time mothers are hesitant about going home that quickly. A maternity nurse can help you navigate those first days of motherhood. Cost: £180 for 24 hours.

• Willow Nannies willownannies.co.uk • Eden Nannies edenprivatestaff.com • Cocoon cocoon.uk.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 79

LOVE “I’d had enough and began swearing at everyone around me,” reported one mum. Our midwife, Victoria Cochrane, says she often has to turn away and smile at this stage, for the symptoms of transition are common and are simply a signal that mum is nearly ready to push.

The second stage of labour is the pushing stage and is when your baby is actually born – hurrah. The third stage of labour is the delivery of the placenta which can be helped along with an injection of synthetic oxytocin – the hormone which makes your womb contract. Or you can choose to wait for nature to take its course, this may be hastened by breastfeeding, as that also releases oxytocin. Active versus physiological (or natural) management of the third stage is a hotly debated topic but the research does indicate that you are at a higher risk of haemorrhage if you opt for the natural route.

have been putting off writing about labour for a while now and the reason is that my gorgeous boys didn’t come out that way. They were born by caesarean section. I have been asking myself: am I qualified to write about this huge subject, what do I know about labour? I have never been through it myself; I haven’t even had a single contraction for goodness sake.

But do you have to have experienced labour to be able to write about it?

Arguably no. The reason I say this, and perhaps rather controversially, is that from my work and hearing thousands of birth stories from friends, family and also the wonderful ladies who have been through our antenatal courses, I can honestly conclude that no two experiences of birth are the same and that is the only thing I can write with real certainty.

So what other generalisations can I tentatively make about labour?

I

1

A typical labour? Most labours are broken into three stages. The first is what is usually understood to be labour: experiencing contractions which build in intensity and narrow in interval until your cervix is dilated to 10cm and you are ready to push your baby out. This first stage can be further divided into the latent and active phases. The latent phase is usually longer than the active and is when your cervix is dilated to 3cm or 4cm. From then until 10cm, or fully dilated, is the active phase. Some don’t even realise they are in the latent stage of labour, while other mums endure hours of painful contractions only to be told they are “just 1cm”.

Many also experience a phase called “transition” in between the first and second phases. Contractions keep coming and mums can feel shivery and anxious, even angry and aggressive.

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2

How long is a piece of string? It’s a good question and very relevant when it comes to the length of your labour.

One of my greatest friends had a 55hour labour, including the latent phase.

Others have delivered their babies at home on the bathroom floor as they didn’t even have time to get in the car (and yes, these were their first babies too). Time can depend on a myriad of different factors including your baby’s position, whether you have been induced, where you are, how you feel, the care you are receiving and so on.

Research has shown that active labour is eight hours on average for first-time mums and five hours for subsequent labours, so, generally, second and subsequent labours are almost always shorter and easier than the first.

Louisa Van den Bergh, OF LU LU BABY, TAKE S US TH ROUGH TH E U N PR EDIC TABILIT Y OF GIVING BIRTH

3

What does it feel like? I asked some mums: “Really intense period pains, like you have never experienced before”; “Hours of contractions with absolutely no pain. All I could feel was pressure”; “Like a hot poker in my lower back, agony”; “I felt the contractions but it wasn't painful”; “The epidural couldn’t come quick enough.” Such a varied response to a simple question but obviously the most subjective one in the world. Many of the positive testimonials have often been down to hypnobirthing: “Simple but specific self-hypnosis, relaxation and breathing techniques for a better birth” – something to consider if you are particularly fearful of labour.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

Labour of

PREGNANCY

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

4

Blood, sweat and tears.

If you are having a baby, be prepared for blood. And lots of it. This isn’t something that people dwell on but it is worth being prepared for. It doesn’t stop once you have had your baby too, then there is the placenta to deliver and the lochia (bleeding) afterwards for up to six weeks. Once out, baby may be bloody and covered in vernix caseosa, a waxy white substance delightfully translated from the Latin as “cheesy varnish” which protects baby’s skin in the womb from the amniotic fluid and is intended to also play a role in temperature regulation and skin protection after birth, but nowadays it is often removed immediately.

Sweat. Most women choose to give birth in a hospital – commonly very warm places. Combine this with the hard work of contracting and then pushing out a baby, and things can get very sweaty. Also while we are on bodily functions, let’s briefly mention that you may do a poo in the heat of the action, midwives are very used to this and deal with it discreetly; but it’s worth noting that your dignity is something that is usually left at the door when you

NO TWO DESCRIPTIONS OF LABOUR ARE EVER IDENTICAL, BUT THERE ARE COMMON ELEMENTS have your baby. For my first emergency caesarean section, I remember lying naked on the operating table while a dozen medical staff buzzed around me.

I didn’t mind in the slightest, all that mattered was my son’s safe arrival.

Tears. I think it is fair to say that labour is emotional, no matter what kind of labour you have. From that first contraction or realisation that your labour has begun, to the moment you hold your baby in your arms, it is hard to find a more intense and emotional experience.

5

To plan or not to plan. While I firmly believe that it is helpful for mums to be informed and to understand what may happen, I also feel that planning too much for your baby’s birth can be setting yourself up for a fall. Our anaesthetist always jokes: “The longer the birth plan, the longer the birth.”

Labour is unpredictable and you can’t

always plan for these things, and as our midwives endeavour to remind mums there are two of you in it together – you and the baby – it’s not just in your hands. In our classes, we encourage our mums to be well informed, openminded and to consider making a list of birth hopes. That way if these hopes fail to materialise, mothers will not be too disappointed.

So, “typical labour” is impossible to pin down: no two descriptions of labour are ever identical, but there are common elements. Our obstetrician Dr Penny Law sums it up perfectly: “Even for women who have previously had a baby, no two births are the same. This is why I believe it is important to be as informed as possible in advance and to understand that anything can happen, because that will help you to cope with the unpredictability of giving birth.” bl Visit: lulubaby.co.uk

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NIPPLE BLISTERS EXPLAINED Deearna Withey, Breastfeeding Consultant and Maternity Nurse A nipple blister may also be known as a nipple bleb or milk blister. It looks like a white blister, which has collected milk underneath a very thin layer of skin.

There are a few reasons as to why these occur. The most common reasons are: ✽ Poor latch – baby just suckling on the nipple and not feeding properly ✽ Wearing bras that are too tight ✽ Over supply which can cause too much pressure ✽ Engorgement ✽ The possibility that your baby has a tongue or lip tie ✽ A yeast infection WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP? ✽ Apply a warm compress before you feed your baby ✽ In the shower apply a little pressure to loosen the blister. Do not use a needle as this can cause infection ✽ After feeding soak a little cotton wool with warm olive oil, and place on the blister, this will help it to open – remember to wash off fully ✽ Massage your breasts in a downward or circular motion – never prod the breast with just one finger Ask a professional to check your latch 07771 660 121 deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk

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meetTHE

EXPERTS

OU R PROFE SSIONAL S GIVE TH EIR ADVICE ABOUT BIRTHING , BABY AN D BEYON D BIRTH, IT’S YOUR CHOICE… Dr Etienne Horner, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist A common debate is the battle of vaginal delivery versus the controversial caesarean section.

I very much support women who want to give birth vaginally, and I will always encourage it if all medical grounds allow this method. However, I am certainly not adamant that all women need to give birth this way. So why do women have to defend themselves if they would like to choose to have a caesarean section to bring their child into this world? It is their child, and their body, and their life so why would anyone interfere with this decision? What if, after a vaginal delivery, the new mother was to

suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder due to a long and difficult birth, or her perineum needed further surgery – who then should take responsibility and help the mother to cope on a daily basis? Yes, she may have had a vaginal delivery but the costs were too high, and in some situations this can be the case. Not all women are lucky enough to deliver a baby naturally with ease, without pain relief and without an episiotomy; and it’s important to bear in mind that most first deliveries do not pan out as hoped. In order to support women in their decision for a mode of delivery without guilt, we need to be more open about childbirth and we need to accept that a caesarean section is not just the last resort, but also a justified way to give birth.

07868 972 920 etiennehorner.co.uk

HEALTH

ADDING A ROUTINE Linda Evans and Adela Bujdosova, Elite Infant Consultancy The initial days after having a baby can be an emotional rollercoaster.

Amongst those beautiful moments, time can easily get lost between the irregular feeding and sleep patterns characteristic of a newborn. This period of transition and adaption is crucial, not just for baby’s health and wellbeing but for the parents’ too. Research shows that between eight to 12 weeks your baby’s feeding and general behaviour begins to change and their feeding cues start to form a recognisable pattern. At this stage your baby’s biological clock is slowly being set.

Provided your baby was not born early and is putting on healthy amounts of weight, eight to 12 weeks is advised as the optimum time to incorporate some regularity into your day and night routine.

Some parents at this stage choose to take a structured, timespecific approach to their baby’s routine. This is commonly known as a parent-led routine whereby the parent sets when their baby sleeps, feeds and plays.

This approach is beneficial in that the baby is provided with a predictable pattern of events, and over time their biological clock naturally adapts to the set time cues. Gina Ford, the childcare author, is a well known advocate of this method.

Alternatively, parents can adopt an attachment-parenting approach which favours a baby-led routine. The theory behind this method is the idea that parents will learn their baby’s preferences and habits, and will understand them well enough to anticipate when they want to feed, sleep or play. Our professional opinion maintains the ethos that every baby is different and advocates following a combination of parent-led and baby-led approaches in establishing a routine that best works for you and your baby. elitewellbeingconsultancy.co.uk

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ULTRASOUND SCANS IN LATER PREGNANCY? Dr Elisabeth Peregrine, Consultant Obstetrician at Richmond Practice All women are routinely offered two ultrasound scans during the first and second trimester of their pregnancy by the NHS. The first scan is an early pregnancy scan or dating scan taken around 12 weeks and estimates the baby’s delivery date. The second scan is an anomaly scan between 18 and 21 weeks and checks for any structural abnormalities of the baby. Some women however also opt for additional scans privately, such as a reassurance scan or a dating scan, which is taken between six and 10 weeks.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A SCAN AFTER 24 WEEKS? The main reason for scanning after 24 weeks is to check the growth of the baby and assess how the placenta is working.

A growth scan in the third trimester can assess fetal wellbeing by measuring your baby, measuring the amniotic fluid around your baby and measuring the blood flow through the umbilical cord and fetal brain. Together these assess whether the placenta is working well. In addition the scan can show which way your baby is lying and confirm that the placenta is not lying low in the womb.

Usually we recommend serial growth scans (28, 32 and 36 weeks) in women who

are at a higher risk of having a smaller or a larger baby. We would therefore arrange these scans if you have diabetes (before or during pregnancy) as you are more likely to have a bigger baby, or if you have a multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets), have had a smaller baby before or have pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure and protein in your urine) or another medical condition. You may also be asked to have a scan if your baby feels small from feeling your abdomen (measuring the height of the womb) or if there is a reduction in your baby’s movements.

A scan in later pregnancy may also be done to confirm that the placenta has moved up away from the neck of the womb if it was found to be low on the anomaly scan.

On a scan taken after 24 weeks, in the third trimester, the structures in your baby are not

usually seen as clearly as they are at 20 weeks although there are a few rare situations where structural abnormalities in babies may not be apparent until later in pregnancy, and so this can provide extra reassurance.

Consult your doctor if: you are in the third trimester and think you may be at a higher risk of having a smaller or a larger baby ✽ you are pregnant and think that the baby has been moving less frequently than it had been previously ✽ you are pregnant and the height of the womb is less than it should be on measurement by your midwife ✽

020 8940 5009 richmondpractice.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 83

Are you worried about the shape of your baby’s head?

After birth some babies develop flattening on one side of the back of their heads. This is a condition called Positional Plagiocephaly or ‘Flat head syndrome’. If there is no natural improvement by the age of 4/5 months you might want to seek advice. The London Orthotic Consultancy (LOC) offers an initial FREE consultation at its Harley Street clinic during which your baby’s head shape will be assessed and measured and treatment options discussed. The first option is normally repositioning but if this does not work the LOCband cranial remoulding therapy will produce measurable improvements to head shape.

Before Treatment

To speak to a clinician or book a FREE initial appointment at our clinic in Harley Street ring 020 8974 9989 or e-mail info@LondonOrthotics.co.uk

T: 020 8974 9989 E: info@londonorthotics.co.uk W: www.londonorthotics.co.uk

After Treatment

The LOC mark and Emblem are registered trademarks of The London Orthotic Consultancy Ltd

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BIRTH

CALL THE modern MIDWIFE TH E N EW GEN ER ATION OF MIDWIVE S IS PLUCK Y AN D COOL, WITH NOTHING BUT YOU AN D YOU R BABY ’S WELLBEING IN MIN D, E XPL AIN S Summer Litchfield Below: Clemmie with her daughter, Marnie, age four

lemmie Hooper looks like a pop star. “When I turn up on expectant women’s doorsteps and tell them I’m their midwife, the most common reaction is: ‘Wow, you’re so young!’”

Forget the middle-aged and matronly, out-dated midwifery of old; there’s a new breed about, and Clemmie is most definitely one of them. Aged 30 with two daughters aged four and seven, she writes the popular blog gasandairblog.com and is all for a more women-centred approach to delivering babies.

“I would never dream of telling a new mother how she should be doing things because we live in a culture where everything is so much more up to the individual,” Clemmie explains. “Women are a lot more empowered to make decisions about the birth they want and they are also a lot more educated about what’s

C

available thanks to the internet. As midwives, we have to be equipped with the latest information to be able to serve our women to the best of our ability. That means guiding them through their journey without bias and influence, yet supporting them every step of the way to achieve the birth they want.”

While the traditional approach to midwifery favoured the ‘on your back in hospital’ rule, the new attitude is ‘whatever makes you happy’. Whether that be upright and active, in a birthing pool, at home by the sofa or all of the above, modern midwives like Clemmie (or midwifeyhooper, as she’s known on social media) are in touch with that.

“I’m part of the new group of modern midwives using social media to promote all things midwiferyrelated and to share views and wisdom with others,” says Clemmie.

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BIRTH

will do everything they can to help them create a positive experience. Midwives worth their salt approach birth as a natural event rather than a medical one. Communication is the key to creating the best experience for each woman and her baby.”

Another midwife who would agree with this is Natalie Lee, who is currently focusing on her own blog StyleMeSunday.com, and bringing up her two daughters, but hopes to return to delivering babies when her girls are older.

She observes that one of the main things that’s changed in recent years is that you need a degree to be a midwife. “After that, listening skills are key,” she says, seconding Hollie of the Calm Birth School. “It sounds obvious but bringing a baby into the world is so much more of a collaborative

Calm Birth School co-founder Hollie de Cruz with chuffed new mums Stephanie and Louise

it and got the T-shirt.”

One of the growing trends that today’s modern midwives, like Clemmie, are up to speed with is hypnobirthing. Hollie de Cruz and Suzy Ashworth recently launched the Calm Birth School – the world’s first hypnobirthing video course – and, although they don’t deliver babies themselves, they definitely fit the bill in terms of looking more like they should be working in fashion.

“We work with so many women who have successful careers and busy lives,” says Hollie. “These are intelligent women who know what they want. They are educated and determined, and they are looking for a way to apply this to the way they are birthing.

They do something like our hypnobirthing video course which gives them all the tools they need for a calm and comfortable birth, and then they have the confidence to seek out caregivers who will support them in their choices. The majority of today’s midwives love seeing women embrace their births and

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Clemmie at work with a new

delivery, 2013

experience these days and women should be involved in all aspects of their care.”

But ultimately, times are a-changing.

“Practices in midwifery are evolving all the time,” says Clemmie. “I can understand how it must be hard for midwives who qualified 20 years ago to change what they have always practised. New technologies, methodologies and tools are constantly cropping up which are designed to make midwives’ and women’s lives easier and make birth experiences something to look forward to, not to fear.”

Natalie Lee with her two daughters Alexa and Autumn

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIPPAJAMESPHOTOGRAPHY.COM, CLEMMIE HOOPER - GASANDAIRBLOG.COM, NATALIE LEE - STYLEMESUNDAY.COM, THECALMBIRTHSCHOOL.COM, ISTOCK

“I try to keep on top of the current climate in relation to pregnancy and childbirth so I’m armed and ready with the most up-todate evidence-based practice when advising women. Gone are the days when I would wait for my monthly subscription of The Practising Midwife magazine to see what’s trending. All I have to do is go online to get feedback from women out there who have been there, done

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ONE • DAY • YOUNG Kate Finney TALKS TO PHOTOGR APH ER Jenny Lewis ABOUT H ER EPIC FIVE-YE AR PROJEC T CELEBR ATING MOTH ER S AN D TH EIR N EWBOR N BABIE S

88 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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“Thank you so much for getting back to me so promptly. I was so impressed with your clinic it was a calm oasis during a difficult time.”

Katie Dawson Our specialist ultrasound consultants are world leaders and their skill proves time and again that not all ultrasound services are equal. Using 2D, 3D, 4D and Doppler technology, they examine anatomy and organ function in the finest detail, often detecting issues that other specialists may have missed.

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NEW LIFE

“

t’s really quite simple,” says photographer Jenny Lewis, “I wanted to tell a story about the strength and resilience of women post-childbirth that I feel goes largely unacknowledged in today’s world. To reassure women that childbirth is okay – yes there’s pain but it is a positive pain, one that has purpose and is just part of the journey.” Motivated by this desire to spread a positive message about birth, Jenny leafleted her home borough of Hackney to recruit her subjects, and over five years photographed 150 women within 24 hours of giving birth.

For an event so commonplace – there are more than 2,000 babies born in the UK every day – childbirth and its immediate aftermath is one that is rarely documented or made public. All too often these moments are left on a mobile phone, or are filed away in

I

family albums. The book includes 40 portraits out of the total 150, and covers a complete range of ages, backgrounds and experiences, from home births to hospital births, from first-time mothers to mothers-of-four, from teenage mothers to those in their forties.

Jenny’s aim was for motherhood to be admired and appreciated after the incredible marathon of childbirth. What she didn’t expect was to find a strange calm, accompanied by an aura of heightened sensitivity at every house she visited.

“It was overwhelming, every single time I was welcomed into their home at the most special moment,” remembers Jenny. “It’s had a massive impact on the way I think about my community and my perception of humanity.”

The generosity of her subjects stunned Jenny, as did the sense of slow-motion and

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 91

NEW LIFE

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NEW LIFE

One Day Young

by Jenny Lewis (Hoxton Mini Press, £12.95)

peace that pervaded each house or flat that she visited. In her introduction to Jenny’s book, photography critic Lucy Davies suggests that the new mothers are “hovering at a magic and ambiguous crossing-point between before and after, and the impression this leaves on the way they look rinses bright through every image”. The images themselves are truly captivating. There is a rhythmic repetition to the pictures, and despite our interest in the surroundings of every home, and the look and identity of the women, each baby draws you in like a magnet.

“Most [of the mothers] only managed to pull their gaze away for a few seconds,” says Jenny. “They’re primitive animals at that point.

That body language, to a photographer used to spending ages trying to make the subject feel relaxed, be themselves and to get rid of

any worries about how they want to be portrayed, is fascinating. At this moment, like no other moment, they are so flooded with their self, but an egoless self – it’s beautiful.”

While the images are incredibly intimate, it never feels like we’re intruding. There is a sense of stillness and poise that radiates through the series of portraits, creating an overwhelming impression of serenity emanating from these new mothers. Jenny remarks that as the series developed over the course of the five-year project, this theme of silent-strength became impossible to ignore.

“I find the collection defiant and beautiful, challenging the expected vision of those first 24 hours; a pure celebration of what it means to be a mother.” bl jennylewis.net

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TRAINING FOR

FATHERHOOD OLYM PIC GOLD M EDALIST Greg Rutherford TAKE S ON HIS BIGGE ST CHALLENGE YE T – BECOMING A DAD

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DAD’S WORLD

efore: wake up. Feed the dogs. Neck a protein shake. Breakfast. Shower.

Dress. Go. Now: begrudgingly drag each limb out of bed. Make a large coffee. Scrap that, forgot to buy coffee beans. Remind Susie to buy coffee beans. Drink a protein shake. Make Susie a cup of tea. Hold Milo while Susie drinks tea. Watch Milo do a 13-second-long yawn. Whisper to Milo he might not find himself so tired in the mornings if he actually chose to sleep at night. Hand Milo to Susie. Breakfast. Shower.

Dress. Take Milo so Susie can shower. Mentally moan that Susie takes 20 minutes to shower because it’s the only baby-free time she has.

Outwardly tell Susie I hope she had a nice shower. Realise bin needs emptying of nappy sacks. Ignore bin. Kiss Milo and Susie. Go.

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admiration for those dads who return to work two weeks after their baby is born, and for the mums who then take on full responsibility.

When we’re not just gazing at him, Milo takes up most of our hours being passed between us as we juggle the most mundane of tasks.

We’ve been blessed with silent reflux, which lots of other parents will know is in fact, no blessing at all. Milo would cat nap on our chests or in the car, but would scream like a banshee on helium if we so much as wafted him near a horizontal mattress. It’s no wonder… we’d hear him repeatedly choking on milk, coughing and spluttering hours on from a feed, and with the aid of baby Gaviscon we chose to miss out on forty winks and take it in turns to chest-prop him through the night. It was a real tag team effort.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, MIKE HEWITT, GETTY

I CAN’T WAIT UNTIL MILO WILL BE ABLE TO WATCH ME COMPETE IN THE 2016 OLYMPICS IN RIO It’s been three months since our first-born made his debut. Eight pounds of euphoria got yanked (literally, with forceps) from my partner Susie, placed in our arms and despite our newfangled, disordered morning routine, we still couldn’t be happier. Sure, gone are the days when we’d throw some clothes in a suitcase and drive off for a long weekend somewhere. And our definition of a romantic night in is now a few hours of silence during Harry Potter back-to-backs while the baby naps. Life has most definitely changed.

Obviously, being a professional athlete, there are certain parts of my routine which can’t slip and where I do have to be somewhat selfish. Susie is breast-feeding so Milo’s still feeding on demand every few hours and once my season begins again with full force I can confirm with certainty that there’ll be nights I sleep in the spare room to make sure I’m on form for competing and training.

Luckily, Milo arrived on my off-period and although I’d had an exceptionally busy 2014 and missed large chunks of the pregnancy – due to warm weather training and competing in Glasgow at the Commonwealth Games – we knew come the due date I’d be handson and ready to help out for the next few months. And that’s something we’re both very glad about. We each now have a great deal of

At around eight weeks while visiting family, Susie’s sister presented us with a vibrating bouncer chair. A few days later, after finally remembering to retrieve it from the boot, we plonked him down waiting for the inevitable holler and were instead met with a satisfied expression and reticence.

While obviously intoxicated with relief, flinging our finally empty arms around with gusto and showing them to anyone who’d look (our dogs), we spent the next half an hour staring at him in wonder. We’d been prepared for parenthood to a point. We knew about broken sleep, stinky nappies, milky

Greg’s always thinking of new ways to include Milo in his daily training

sick… but we weren’t prepared for never being able to put our baby down. After two long months, it had happened and we ate dinner together, with our free arms, to the tune of the bouncy chair’s playlist: Three Blind Mice, Baa Baa Black Sheep and Little Miss Muffet.

Another month down the line and we’re really comfortable in our new routine. There’s still the odd day where we struggle and realise it’s midday before we’ve even brushed our teeth, but we’re nearly firing on all cylinders again. The reflux has calmed down and he’ll even sit and watch from his heaven-sent bouncer when we’ve visited the athletics track or our home gym. I’m constantly trying to find new ways to include him in my daily workouts and I can’t wait until Milo will be able to watch me compete in the 2016 Olympics in Rio. All in all, I can wholeheartedly say fatherhood has changed everything for the better. It’s shifted my focus so I’m not just thinking about myself and getting training completed for that day so I succeed, but much more about completing my training so I can get home and enjoy family time.

While my career is hugely important to me and always will be, nowadays I see it as something I strive to excel in so that I can provide for my family. It’s not just about winning, or about being the best within my field, it’s about being the best dad I can be.

Of course I’m worn out and slack on nights out and housework, but becoming a dad has given me a greater push in any sporting venture I undertake and I genuinely don’t believe there’s been any negative impact whatsoever. Things have just changed.

I almost think it’s a shame you get warned so heavily prior to birth about all the unfavourable consequences that might crop up: “Oh you’ll be so tired; you won’t have any moments to yourself; you won’t have time to do that.” No one warns you that you won’t care that your lifelong routine becomes so much less important because you’re too excited about spending time with a tiny human. And that’s the greatest, and nicest, shock about starting a family.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 97

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CHARITY TRIUMPH Pregnancy and stillbirth awareness charity Count the Kicks are the winners of Ocean’s Win the Tin campaign after more than 114,000 public votes. The £5,000 prize money will no doubt be a helpful contribution to their tireless efforts to educate expectant mums about the risks of stillbirths. According to Count the Kicks, 17 babies are stillborn in the UK every day, and the charity aims to reduce that number by giving women simple warning signs to look out for in case their baby is in danger. countthekicks.org.uk

FOOD FOR THE FUTURE What you eat while pregnant and breastfeeding is hugely beneficial for your baby’s future health, but it can be difficult to get the right balance of vitamins and minerals. A recent survey has revealed that many women are missing out on these key nutrients, with 72% of women reporting they didn't eat oily fish, which is a great source of DHA (omega 3), and fewer than half taking folic acid during pregnancy. In response to this, Nutrimum has created a unique range of muesli and cereal bars, dedicated solely to the nutritional needs of pregnant and breastfeeding women. “Research shows that at most, 20% of a baby’s future health is influenced by genes, with environmental factors such as what you eat playing an important role in influencing lifelong health,” said Charlotte Hemmings, Senior Medical Affairs Manager at Nutricia Early Life Nutrition. One portion per day of the Nutrimum range provides the required nutrients women need during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 99

BRINGING UP BABY LIKE

Royalty

Charlotte’s maternity nur se spent the first four weeks with her and Evelyn

E XPEC TING A LIT TLE PRIN CE OR PRIN CE SS? A MATER NIT Y N U R SE CAN H ELP YOU COPE, E XPL AIN S Charlot te Duck

umour has it, after suffering sleepless nights with Prince George, the Duchess of Cambridge is hiring a maternity nurse for baby number two. If she does, she’ll be following in the footsteps of rock stars, Hollywood actresses and, er, me.

I’m not rich and I’m certainly not famous.

My husband and I live in a modest London flat but, when I got pregnant, we agreed I’d need help. Our decision didn’t go down well with everyone; some people thought not experiencing those exhausting nights of crying amounted to cheating and we had to justify it on a regular basis. This was pretty easy. Our parents don’t live nearby – even if they had, both mums work – and my husband has a demanding job so wouldn’t be taking much paternity leave. Plus, I become a walking zombie when I’m tired.

The process of hiring a maternity nurse is incredibly simple. Four months into my pregnancy, I contacted an agency (there are lots but I used Maternally Yours) and explained who I wanted. The ideal person would take control of everything, get us all into a good routine and give me a crash course in looking after a newborn.

I sifted through piles of CVs but it was the references that were the most useful. Reading through the lines, it’s easy to spot the families who were truly grateful for the help they’d received. Most of my shortlist weren’t London-based so I conducted phone interviews, during which I asked for breastfeeding advice, how they envisioned a typical day, what the baby’s routine would be,

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how they’d describe their nursing style and whether they’d dealt with any emergencies.

I’m also not a great cook so wanted someone who was happy with pasta or just to muck-in.

The nurse I finally chose was perfect: she was kind but strict and sensible. Among others, she’d worked for a pop star, several politicians and a BAFTA-winning actor.

However, it wasn’t that which impressed me.

Her references highlighted discretion and how her proposed routine, which meant that she rested from 5pm to 10pm, meant both parents could have time alone with each other and the baby in the evenings. Having a

THE MATERNITY NURSE I CHOSE WAS PERFECT SHE WAS KIND BUT STRICT AND SENSIBLE stranger live-in, even just Monday to Friday, can feel invasive so this was crucial.

Five months later and I gave birth, which was amazing but also like being hit by a train.

In the past, women often stayed in hospital for two weeks, offering them 24-hour support and some time to recover. With my daughter Evelyn, I had a 36-hour labour and was discharged the day after, clutching a bag of tablets and barely able to walk. My mum stayed for the first few days and my husband was back to work a week later.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

✽

I was left alone with an eight-day-old baby.

Thankfully, just before panic ensued, the doorbell rang and my Mary Poppins appeared, taking charge straight away. Within the hour she was unpacking our nursery, still a heap of baby paraphernalia I hadn’t set up and didn’t know how to use, while I expressed for a night feed. Then it was off to bed while my nurse calmed my tearful little one.

We had our nurse for four weeks and I learnt new things every day: the best breastfeeding positions, how to stop crying on the changing mat, how to swaddle (although I’m still terrible at this), winding positions and bathing tips.

Obviously the biggest advantage is that there’s someone to help out in the night-time.

Evelyn slept in with our nurse from 10pm until 5am, and then she’d come into our room. A maternity nurse costs from £120 a night, which sounds like a lot but when you’ve been up for weeks on end, it’s suddenly a bargain.

Lots of people asked if it affected us bonding – and it did. I was happier and more confident with my daughter than if I’d been sleep-deprived and stressed. After my nurse left, we continued the routine she’d established and Evelyn slept through from two months.

As much as I’d love to advertise her name, my nurse prefers to stay anonymous, The live-in nurse helped Charlotte enjoy sorry! But she slipped me some quality time with Evelyn of her tips instead (above).

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 101

We use the finest organic ingredients in our follow on milk, which means no chemical pesticides and no GM ingredients: maybe that’s why 10 out of 10 mums who have changed to our milk say their babies seem happier.* We’ve been researching breastmilk for over 50 years, so you can rely on us to include the ingredients your baby needs from 6 months onwards to grow strong and healthy (like iron, vitamins A, C and D, and PRÆBIOTIK®).

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For more information ask your healthcare professional or visit hipp.co.uk Important notice: Breastfeeding is best for babies. Breastmilk provides babies with the best source of nourishment. Infant formula l milks ilk and d follow f ll on milks ilk are intended i t d d to t be b used d when h babies b bi cannott be b breastfed. The decision to discontinue breastfeeding may be difficult to reverse and the introduction of partial bottle feeding may reduce breastmilk supply. The financial benefits of breastfeeding should be considered before bottle feeding is initiated. Failure to follow preparation instructions carefully may be harmful to a baby’s health. Infant formula and follow on milks should be used only on the advice of a healthcare professional. *99.8% of 515 mums using HiPP Organic who have changed from a different brand agreed either ‘strongly’ (62.5%) or ‘slightly’ (37.3%) with the statement ‘my baby seems happier’. Research conducted July 2013.

FAMILY LIFE

TOASTING A

NEW ARRIVAL AS TH E ROYAL S PR EPAR E TO WELCOM E A N EW BABY, Alex Payne R ECALL S H OW HIS DAUGHTER GR EE TED H ER N EW SIBLING

ome very dear friends took delivery of their third child earlier this week, which has prompted a lot of sentimentality from my wife. “There is something so magical about having another baby, about adding to the family,” she purred.

Despite my better judgement, for a moment I found myself caught up in the warm, soft focus glow she was creating. We had both

S

agreed that we’d settle as a family of four.

“But that’s too perfect”, everyone would comment. “Exactly!” was my well-thought out response. But for some reason, I was bending towards her nostalgia. Was she suggesting…

But the moment was punctured by a wail: “Mumma, I need some loo roll!”

“What do you say?” we shot back in unison.

“Pleeaaasssee,” came the response.

How quickly the world can start turning again.

I’m always amazed by how unflustered children are. I’m not sure if it is admiration or jealousy that they are on straight tracks from breakfast to lunch, to supper to bed, or whether it is the fact very little knocks them off course. There may well be squabbles, tears, rages and meltdowns but it is nothing that a biscuit or a piece of toast won’t sort.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 103

Bizarrely, toast is a very prominent memory when I recall what was meant to be the most seismic event in my daughter’s life: the arrival of her younger brother. My wife is something of a control freak, and managed to go into labour once she’d done bath and bedtime. We sat down for the glass of wine at heaven o’clock, and she duly groaned and growled her way through the next few hours. For some reason, when the time came to drive her to the hospital I took with me two slices of toast and peanut butter.

When I headed home the next morning to tell child one that there was now a child two, the toast was still on the dashboard. It wasn’t delicious 12 hours on, but I remember it vividly. Perhaps it was the clutch of the inner child – toast means everything will be okay.

I walked in through the front door, a little dazed and confused after the night’s events, to find our daughter chomping on her cereal, wonderfully oblivious to how everything had suddenly changed for her. The fact that neither parent was there when she’d got up that morning didn’t seem to have registered, nor the fact it was her godmother who greeted her and got her dressed. Perhaps best explained by the fact her compass was set to breakfast and everything else could wait.

If truth be told, the lack of recognition was a little frustrating after months of build-up.

We had carefully taken the time to explain about the growing tummy, discussed why the Moses basket had re-emerged, why the baby clothes were back out again. We took time to think about possible speed bumps, such as why she would be moving bedrooms and why she’d be heading off to nursery a week after his arrival. As parents, we had read books on how to handle the transition, worried about what the knock-on effects might be, and about how she’d react to far less attention. It dominated the agenda, obviously.

But I think it is fair to say our daughter would beg to differ on the whole ‘something

magical about welcoming a baby into a family’.

It kind of just fitted in between an episode of Dora the Explorer, a splash of colouring-in and lunchtime.

We drove back to the hospital to introduce her to her new wingman. He seemed to have a vague appeal, but of far more interest were all the buttons in the room. Particularly the one that folded the bed in on itself with mummy inside while simultaneously lifting her feet up to the ceiling. Nothing like rigorous abdominal exercises hours after childbirth.

Those precious first few moments were dominated by our daughter changing channels, dimming lights, summoning nurses and whacking up the volume. The ‘warm glow as a family of four’ came mainly from the fact she boosted the electric blanket to level 10.

It wasn’t that she was actively disinterested in her new brother, more that she didn’t have time to stop. There was zipping about to be done, which actually is the reality of it.

Because after the initial ‘magical moments’, your foot hits the accelerator and off you go.

A blur of night feeds, school runs, sterilisers, homework, baby monitors and uniforms. The world doesn’t remain in a soft focus for long, particularly when there is a nappy to change or a lunchbox to prepare.

At times it was hard not to envy her simple outlook on life – she had treated this seismic event rather like a train that skips through a station without stopping.

The bulletproof attitude of little people amuses me even more when you consider the countdown that is happening around Buckingham Palace. A family of three going through all of the above, but with the small matter of the world watching and waiting too.

For all the intense press attention and media overdrive, and away from the bookies and the bunting, I’d be happy to bet that what the third in line to the throne will be most concerned with, is when he’ll next be climbing into his highchair.

While the nation prepares to toast another royal baby, Prince George’s will be toast preparation of a different kind. “Mumma, I want peanut butter on it... Pleeaaasssee!”

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

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babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 105

Philip and Marina Thompson, the founders of Waddler, with their sons

Finn and Jimmy modelling the brand’s Charlie Chaplin-inspired bowler hats

THE

WADDLER WAY Susannah Warren FIN DS OUT H OW ON E YOU NG FAMILY E SCAPED LON DON LIFE ON TH E H U NT FOR TH EIR FASHION FIX 106 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

ho hasn’t flirted with the idea of packing it all in and jetting off to a far-flung continent in search of a life less ordinary? But flirting is usually as far as it goes. Not so for the founders of boutique children’s label Waddler. Philip and Marina Thompson stopped talking about it and actually took the plunge back in 2008 with their one-year-old son, Finn, in tow. “We were quite young – both 25 – when we had a kid,” says Philip. “Suddenly, we were stuck at home while all our friends were partying. We couldn’t afford childcare, and couldn’t really enjoy London. So we decided to quit our jobs (his in TV, hers in an art gallery), rent out our house and travel round Argentina.”

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FEATURE

Chapada Diamantina National Park, Brazil

After three years adventuring around great swathes of South America, the plan was to head home. “But when it came to it, we didn’t want to go back,” admits Philip. However, relying on his work as a freelance writer to fund their wanderlust wasn’t viable in the long-term, so they had to come up with something that would allow them to keep ‘living the dream’.

The answer lay with Marina, who had been making clothes for their son using the fleece of baby alpacas, a super-soft and luxurious wool from Peru. “Marina had this vague idea about making kids’ clothes. We wanted to continue exploring South America, so that’s when we thought we could turn her idea into a business,” says Philip, who takes care of the admin and marketing side.

The couple developed the brand in Bolivia, building important relationships with a cooperative of Andean farmers and a clutch of small La Paz knitting workshops, before launching in the UK in 2010. Finally, Waddler was born, offering a playful collection of cosy and durable knits for children, all handmade in

Waddler photoshoots capture real-life adventures

WADDLER IS BASED ON FAMILY ADVENTURES, ENCOURAGING IMAGINATIVE, WILD AND FREE KIDS

PHOTOGRAPHY: XXXXX

Philip with the boys in Madidi Park,Bolivia

Salta, Argentina

Bolivia from the very finest alpaca yarn. The range of organic Pima cotton styles, which are lovingly woven, cut and printed in Peru, came a few years later and complement the alpaca offerings to perfection.

Waddler, Marina’s nickname as a baby, is very much inspired by their nomadic, South American lifestyle. Philip describes the brand as being “based on the idea of going on adventures as a family, of encouraging imaginative, wild and free kids. The idea that childhood should be about children being independent and exploring the world around them”.

There is a definite quirkiness to the Waddler style. “Marina worked in theatre originally,” Philip reveals, “so she loves Marcel Marceau and both of us are big fans of Charlie Chaplin.” This explains the colourful bowler hats on offer and the brand’s signature Pierrot jumper. The enchanting wolf suits, meanwhile, are a nod to Maurice Sendak’s offbeat picture book Where The Wild Things Are. Nearly all the pieces are unisex, too, which fits with the Waddler ethos. “It’s silly to try and reinforce the gender differences as they

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 107

RUNNING HEAD

Living the dream...

Marina’s most recent Waddler photoshoot in Ireland

don’t really exist at that age. Our kids never distinguish between girls or boys, or ages.”

As well as the designs, Marina also masterminds the label’s spectacular photoshoots, which have spanned the globe, from Scotland and Ireland to Bolivia, Uruguay and Brazil. Featuring the Thompson children, often alongside local kids, they are a snapshot of the Waddler lifestyle, capturing a real-life adventure rather than an imitation of one.

This integrity runs through every aspect of the business. “We ensure all our knitters are

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paid three times the minimum wage and we’ve seen the results of this,” Philip writes on the website. “Back-breaking drudgery replaced by washing machines, kids able to afford school materials and all-round happier families.”

After eight years on the move, the family – now a party of five with Jimmy, four, and Wren, one – has finally paused and is living in a house they’ve built on Boipeba island, off the coast of Bahia, in north-east Brazil. Apart from a fixed abode, though, there is still nothing conventional about their life.

They get up with the sun, take turns to work and homeschool Finn, and share all meals; afternoons are spent swimming, riding, surfing or exploring.

In true Waddler style, the children are left to their own devices. “Our kids have a lot of freedom,” says Philip. “We encourage them to go off down to the beach and meet up with friends. They may not come back for three or four hours, so they’re very independent really.

But their innocence lasts a lot longer.”

Not ones to get too comfortable, though, the couple are already plotting their next adventure. “Brazil was the last place in the world to make VW campervans, so we thought we should do a road trip across South America. But it would be five of us. In a campervan.” Sounds like it’s got their name, and Waddler’s, written all over it. bl waddler.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, WADDLER

Free to roam... Jimmy and Finn exploring the beach in Uruguay in 2014

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Balancing

ACT

STR E SSING OUT ABOUT R E TU R NING TO WOR K WITH A N EW BABY ? VISIT A MATER NIT Y WELLBEING GU RU, SAYS Summer Litchfield

n those magical days, when I first started proudly patting my virtually non-existent bump, I remember listening attentively to every snippet of wisdom from friends. “The great thing about babies,” many of them said, “is that you no longer worry about all those self-indulgent little things you used to worry about. You just don’t have the time.” I looked forward to this carefree state almost as much as having my little bundle in my arms.

What those friends didn’t tell me, however, was that all those tiny things I worried about before would be replaced by a multitude of far greater concerns. Three years on, I am only just learning how to get them in perspective.

It’s no news that right from the moment you discover that you’re about to become a mum you need guidance, reassurance and as much positive energy around you as possible.

Just dealing with the basics of pregnancy and those first days looking after your newborn requires a new set of skills. And while it can also put you in a privileged position, if you happen to have a high-pressure job it can be an even tougher challenge.

This is where holistic maternity consultant Lisa Barnwell steps in. Specialising in aromatherapy, reflexology and yoga, Lisa is also a gifted counsellor adept at guiding women through pregnancy and beyond.

“It’s about trusting ourselves and tapping into our own instincts,” says Lisa, “but when

I

110 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

we become – or are about to become – mothers we all need a bit of extra support.

Along with the hands-on techniques that I offer, I like to give women a toolkit they can draw on using everything from meditation to mantras. These can all be easily practised and can have a profound effect on their stress levels, confidence and general wellbeing.”

Feeling a little ragged around the edges myself, I visited Lisa for a taster of her coaching and treatments. As she asked me questions about my energy levels, eating and

YOU NEED GUIDANCE, REASSURANCE AND AS MUCH POSITIVE ENERGY AROUND YOU AS POSSIBLE relaxation patterns and other traits, I realised how easy it can be to let good habits slip, especially when juggling pregnancy or motherhood with a hectic work schedule.

Lisa concluded that I was a Vata type so, although I thrive on being busy, I can easily get burnt out and, in short, need to take better care of myself. Along with enlightening me on how my mother’s brain, rather than ‘baby brain’, is now potentially more resourceful and able to multitask, she advised me to focus on

deep breathing, rehydration and refuelling with the right sort of nutrient-rich foods.

It may all sound like obvious stuff, but it’s refreshing to find a one-stop therapist who combines a number of different techniques with such beneficial results. I’m just wondering how long I can stretch out being a new mum and continue having the sessions. bl For more information visit: lisabarnwell.co.uk

HEALTH

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

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A private members’ oasis for women that puts health and wellbeing first – and also boasts a medical clinic, a spa and a deliciously chic restaurant. gracebelgravia.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 111

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Available at these stockists, and also nationwide from selected health food stores and your local pharmacy, by order if not in stock. Simply quote ‘Alliance’ to your pharmacist for delivery within 24 hours.

Need help finding NANNYcare, call 0800 328 5826, email enquiry@nannycare.co.uk or visit nannycare.co.uk IMPORTANT NOTICE: *NANNYcare® Follow on milk is only suitable for babies from 6 months, to complement breastfeeding or the start of weaning, as part of a varied and balanced diet. It is not intended as a breast milk substitute and is not suitable for babies under 6 months. It is recommended that NANNYcare Follow on milk is used only on the advice of a doctor, midwife, health visitor, public health nurse, dietitian, pharmacist, or other professional responsible for maternal and child care, based on your baby’s individual needs. **NANNYcare Growing up milk is for young children between 1-3 years as part of a healthy balanced diet. Goat milk follow on formula is not suitable for infants with a cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a healthcare professional.

REF: 1. PARK YW et al (2007). Physico-chemical characteristics of goat and sheep milk. Small Ruminant Research, 68: 88-1134. 2. ZHOU et al (2011). How does goat milk infant formula compare to cow milk formula? A randomised controlled trial Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition, 52, E208. 3. GRANT, et al (2005). Randomized, double-blind comparison of growth in infants receiving goat milk formula versus cow milk infant formula. J Paediatr Child Health, 41, 564-8.

BEAUTY

ity Time for peace and tranquil

BEAUTY AND THE BUMP What better excuse than pregnancy to put your feet up and indulge in a relaxing massage expertly tailored for a mother-to-be? Here are my three favourite treatments. ✽ ESPA Prenatal Treatment This treatment includes gentle body exfoliation, a nourishing massage and body mask and a de-stressing scalp massage. I love the products for home use, too – they genuinely recreate that ‘spa at home’ feeling. (It’s important to always check whether suitable to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding before applying any product). espaskincare.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, CLARINS

✽ Decleor Pregnancy Treatment Another French powerhouse, this tailor-made body treatment for mamans-to-be targets fluid retention, stretch mark prevention and aches and pains and even includes a ‘tummy mask’ and mini-facial. decleor.co.uk

INSIDER

It’s time to put a spring in your step with Jenni Baden Howard’s top beauty treats to get you glowing from head to toe

A TREAT F

I’m loving the ne of the most buzzed-about lip balm-meets-sheerbeauty ingredients of the lipstick hybrid that is the moment, Argan oil is renowned new Clarins Instant Light for its nourishing benefits for both the (£18). Choose from six lovely, skin and hair. The new Argan+ Mum To Be spring-ready shades. range, exclusive to Waitrose, includes an clarins.co.uk Argan+ Stretch Mark Body Oil (£14.99) to help keep skin smooth and supple. It smells delicious, too – super-fresh and soft.

Blissfully restorative soak in the bath, anyone?

Relaxing bath products aren’t always suitable during pregnancy, but Maternelle Mum To Be Relaxing Bath Soak (£4.99 at Waitrose), part of a new range completely formulated for pregnancy and early baby days, is a great choice. Enriched with rose hip and vitamin E, the subtle lavender scent is blissfully soothing.

A clever new product that’s already become a family ‘standby’ in our home, Bioderma Cicabio Arnica+ (£7) is a topical cream which helps to soothe swelling, relieve soreness and bruising after minor knocks and bumps. Part of this popular French pharmacy range, it’s suitable for babies, children and adults. Available at escentual.com.

O

YOU OR

✽ Clarins Mother-To-Be and New Mother Treatment Clarins therapists are welltrained in the very specifically tailored massage movements that help to reduce fluid retention while relieving aches and pains. Adapted to all pre and postnatal stages, this wonderfully relaxing, top-to-toe treatment focuses on relieving backache, fluid retention and improving skin tone and elasticity. clarins.co.uk

beauty

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 113

ADVERTORIAL

A NEWARRIVAL ON LIN E STOR E L APSI WELCOM E S MICU NA – A BR AN D PAR ENTS HAVE BEEN TRUSTING FOR FOU R DECADE S – TO TH EIR BROOD

THE VALERIA Built with beauty and elegance in mind, the Valeria collection will make a delightful addition to any nursery. With rounded shapes, decorative motifs with Swarovski crystal detailing, you can choose from white sand, chocolate or grey to suit your personal style.

nline store Lapsi, based in West Yorkshire, are pleased to announce a new addition to their ever-growing collection of baby and children’s goods. They welcome the new arrival of nursery furniture range from Micuna, a beautiful Spanish company that has been providing safe and stylish products for over 40 years. The range is lovingly created and crafted by hand, taking inspirations from around the world. Both Lapsi and Micuna provide parents with products of high quality and fresh design. Lapsi only works with reliable and proven manufacturers, who produce durable and safe products with an emphasis on excellent design, which makes for the perfect partnership. The new designs from Micuna will be available on Lapsi’s website this spring.

O

lapsi.co.uk

THE SMART FRESH Ideal for those fi rst few months, The Smart Fresh creates the perfect sleeping environment for your newborn. The breathable and transparent material allows parents to see their baby with ease. And thanks to its six wheels, it offers great mobility, too.

THE OVO HIGH CHAIR With style and practicality at the forefront, the Ovo offers the perfect solution for meal times. The legs and frame, made from solid beech, can be adjusted to two heights, while the seat shell offers comfort for little diners. The chair includes a tray which can be removed and popped in the dishwasher and the padded seat cover can be taken off and wiped clean.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 115

ORDER,

ORDER

Vicky Silver thorn ON H OW TO ORGANISE YOU R H OM E FOR A N EW BABY

Get your house in order and the rest will follow.

This chest of drawers is £1092 by Blue Almonds

raise for Vicky Silverthorn’s miraculous organisational service, aka ‘You Need a Vicky’, has ranged from her being described as a “super cool Mary Poppins” to another client asking “when can you move in?”.

After 10 years working as a PA to celebrities like Lily Allen, and nearly five as a professional organisation guru, the queen of clean and tidy living is perfectly placed to help you create the cosiest new-baby nest.

P

1

CREATE CALM

Always start this wonderful journey with a basic list of what you will need to buy in order to be totally prepared for your baby’s arrival.

There are many websites that can help with this. Start your list early and add to it – only have one and keep it in one place. The aim is to avoid purchasing anything that isn’t needed. I work with many parents who feel they over-bought and regret it.

2

DECLUTTER EARLY ON

It’s very common to go through that nesting stage, but rather than leaving this clear-out/clean-up until the last minute, try to be on top of things as early as you can.

Get your house in order so your head feels in order too. Spend just 20 minutes every day or so sorting and organising a drawer, cupboard or corner of your home. Nothing big, just small and slow. Seeing the difference you’ve made in a matter of weeks will make you so glad it’s done.

3

PRIORITISE SAFETY

With so much to think about, the most important side of room preparation can easily slip people’s minds: creating an environment that is completely safe for baby. Make sure that box is ticked and childproof your home. There are some fantastic websites with advice but also companies who can come to your home and do it for you such as babysafehomes.co.uk.

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STORAGE SOLUTIONS You’ll have so many bits and bobs you’ll want to save but if you don’t have anywhere to put them they will create clutter. I love the Ulrika boxes from The Holding Company which come in various shapes and sizes and will last through the first years of baby’s life. They can also be used as memory boxes.

I also really like the baskets you can find at Zara Home which I’d suggest using for anything from changing paraphernalia and muslins to easily mislaid baby accessories like socks and hats. They look beautiful on shelves and at the bottom of baby wardrobes to utilise all space available.

4

DON’T OVER RESEARCH

One of the most common things I hear new mums say is that they were overwhelmed by the amount of information out there, mainly online. Try to limited yourself to a couple of recommended sites or companies.

And don’t panic.

5

NURSERY PREP

When it’s time to get your nursery ready (it’s probably full of still-wrapped goodies and equipment) start by removing everything from the room. Give it a good clean with chemical-free products. Make sure your furniture is in place, and where you think it makes most sense to be (again there are safety tips you will find online) and only then start to put the other things back in.

PHOTOGRAPHY: BLUE ALMONDS, MOKEE., PURE BABY

6

VISITORS

Keep that schedule clear after your birth date – take time to enjoy the moment because it only happens once. Social media is not a priority at this point either. Make a conscious decision to give yourself a break from this second virtual world that we all live in.

7

MULTIPLE STATIONS

Although the nursery will (probably) be ready for when baby arrives, most choose to have baby in their own bedroom for at least the first few months. Bearing this in mind,

Invest in attractive storage boxes to ensure clutter-free bliss, we love these felt baskets

by Mokee, from £24.95

have a basket by your bed for all the things you may need during those early days and nights, and others dotted around the house in the rooms you spend the most time in.

8

CLOTHES

You may have various sizes of baby clothes. Keep all current clothes easily accessible in top drawers and any that won’t fit for a few months stored neatly away. Keep a small box or bag in a wardrobe or cupboard that you can fill with clothes once they’ve been outgrown but you want to save. And buy a couple of large plastic sealable boxes you can put up in the loft when they are full.

Keep on top of this and it will be an easy job.

9

SAY YES TO HELP

If friends offer to make food for when baby is born then stock up your freezer.

Why not? They will want to help in any way possible and the last thing you will want to think about is cooking. The same goes for the chance to sleep – if they offer to sit with baby for an hour or so, say yes!

10

BE HONEST AT YOUR BABY SHOWER

It’s okay to say “I love bright clothes,” “I don’t like branding” or “I’m overrun with sleepsuits”.

There is a way of doing this without being rude. It’s better than money and gifts being wasted. If asked what your gift preferences

Pure Baby Boutique’s beautifully ordered childrenswear display

are, don’t be afraid to be specific. Just remember to keep a little book of who’s given you what for thank you cards later. youneedavicky.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 117

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Discover a world where the very finest organic ingredients are carefully hand-selected to create 42 tantalising recipes perfect for an exciting weaning adventure. There’s a pouch for every milestone of a little food explorer’s weaning journey: from smooth and mild for those magical first tastes, through to lumps for more adventurous taste buds.

Every savoury recipe also contains omega 3 goodness, important for the development of brain & nerve tissue.

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Come and join our world at hipp.co.uk/wow For advice on when to start weaning, consult your Health Visitor.

BEAUTY

NURTURE YOUR NEST

Indulge your nesting instincts with these gorgeous new nursery ideas which combine practicality with beauty. Clockwise from top left: embrace New England-style with Blue Almond’s comfy rocking chair (£895, bluealmonds.com); harness Scandi-chic with the Bambi Chair (£199, skandivis.co.uk); customise the new Wool Nest from moKee by choosing your handle colour (£89.95, mokee.eu); and cosy up with the beautiful new bedding range from Camomile London (prices from £15, camomile.london launching in April).

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 119

XXXXXXX

Beautifully

BRITISH WE TAKE A LOOK AT HOW Clair de Lune HAVE BEEN KEEPING OU R N U R SERIE S BE AUTIFU L FOR OVER 70 YE AR S

“ John, current MD, pictured with his mum Maureen Rodgers

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I

f it is made in Britain, it is the best you can buy,” says John Rodgers. And that’s all Managing Director John knows having joined the family business – British interiors company Clair de Lune – back in 1964. Harry Rodgers, John’s grandfather originally formed the company in 1943, putting the company at an impressive 71 years of age. The business was set up as a source of employment for Harry’s son Dawson, John’s father, who was returning from active duty during the Second World War. The company was registered using the combination of the family surname and son Dawson’s Christian name, and so Dawson Rodgers Ltd was formed.

Working under the name of Clair de Lune since 1986, John has continued the family tradition of producing quality products to the highest standards of workmanship, and employs approximately 50 members of staff including his wife Polly and son Guy, now the fourth generation, at their factory based in Manchester. With a team of talented British designers, Clair de Lune are best known for their beautiful bedding collections, sheets, blankets and Moses baskets all made with

love in Britain. “Made in Britain, to me, says quality, and production from our Manchester factory is, we believe, second to none,” John explains. “Even in the day when we competed with other UK manufacturers, which have now slowly slipped away, we were often complimented by those valued customers for the quality and reliability of all our products.”

And although some of the processes may have changed, the company ethos of quality British products still remains at the heart.

The company continues to grow their nursery range, responding to market demand.

“Today is all about layered bedding, something unheard of back in the 1950s and 1960s,” says John. “It’s all about sheets and blankets with the possibility of throwing sleepsuits into the mix. Quilts and bumpers still sell well too, they look good and used sensibly really set off a nursery in style.” Showcasing a range of textures, from broderie anglaise to waffle, as well as prints and illustrations, the latest collection to look out for is Cotton Candy, featuring a delicate embroidered pattern of circles and hearts in pretty pastels. clair-de-lune.co.uk

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FOOD

Weaning with Annabel Karmel

Annabel Karmel HAS RUSTLED U P SOM E WE ANING WON DER S THAT AR E PER FEC T FOR MINI MOUTH FU L S

BLUEBERRY, PEAR AND BANANA PURÉE SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 3 PORTIONS

ntroducing your baby to the wonderful world of food is a big milestone. And with different tastes and textures to discover, it can often be tricky to know where to begin with weaning.

Just like many mums, I didn’t quite know where to start when I first began weaning my son.

The process felt quite daunting, but I decided to roll up my sleeves and get experimenting in the

I

122 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

kitchen. I am so glad I did, it is a wonderful, exciting experience and you will be surprised at the flavours your little one will enjoy.

I’ve teamed up with Baby London to help make weaning that bit easier for you. From their very first tastes at six months or so, to exploring new flavours and textures, here are a variety of recipes that are guaranteed to tantalise their taste buds.

Annabel Karmel’s Quick & Easy Weaning is out now (Ebury Press, £9.99). Filled with 100 fast, tasty and nutritious recipes, planners and feeding guides, Annabel is on hand to help give your baby the best start.

You usually add banana to this recipe but if you fancy something different why not try blueberry, pear and peach? If the purée is very runny you can thicken it with some baby cereal or some crushed rusk.

INGRE DIE NTS

2 pears, peeled and diced 150g blueberries 1 banana, sliced METHOD

Put the pears and blueberries into a saucepan.

Simmer for 5 minutes until soft. Add the banana and blend until smooth.

PHOTOGRAPHY: RAY GAUBERT, ISTOCK

FOOD

EXPLORING TASTES AND TEXTURES FOR THE FIRST TIME IS A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 123

FOOD

SWEET POTATO AND APPLE MINI MUFFINS

MINI VEGETABLE BALLS

SUITABLE FROM 9 MONTHS • MAKES 24 MINI MUFFINS

SUITABLE FROM 9 MONTHS • MAKES 24 VEGGIE BALLS

Adding sweet root vegetables to a traditional muffin recipe really does work. These sweet potato muffins are nutritious, delicious and easy to prepare, making them perfect finger foods for your little ones.

Full of natural flavour, this is a fantastic way to pack in a variety of nutritious vegetables in an easy-to-eat snack. What children can’t see they can’t pick out, and my kids loved grazing on these mini vegetable balls when they were young. If you want to get ahead for those busier days, simply freeze them on an open tray and transfer to a container, separated with layers with greaseproof paper. They can easily be reheated in the microwave.

INGRE DIE NTS

150g plain flour 75g caster sugar ½ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground ginger 50ml sunflower oil ½ dessert apple, peeled and grated 75g apple sauce ½ tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp baking powder 50g raisins 50g sweet potato, peeled and grated 1 egg METHOD

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a 24-hole mini-muffin tin with paper cases. Next, measure all of the ingredients into a large bowl and blend until smooth using an electric hand whisk. Spoon the mixture equally into the cases. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes until well risen and lightly golden. Cool for 5 minutes in the tin then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

124 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

TASTY BEEF TAGINE WITH SWEET POTATO SUITABLE FROM 6 MONTHS • MAKES 5 PORTIONS

Babies are open to new tastes from 6-12 months, but tend to become fussier towards one years old – so use this time wisely!

INGRE DIE NTS

1 tsp oil 75g onion, chopped 30g red pepper, diced 100g courgette, diced 100g carrot, diced 75g sweet potato, diced 100g lean minced beef 400g chopped tomatoes ½ tsp ground cumin 3 tbsp apple juice 100ml water METHOD

Heat the oil in a saucepan. Add the vegetables and fry for 3 minutes. Add the beef and brown. Sprinkle in the cumin, then blend in the tomatoes, water and apple juice. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for 30 minutes until tender. Blend until smooth.

INGRE DIE NTS

2 carrots, peeled and grated 1 small courgette, grated 75g butternut squash, peeled and grated 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped ½ tbsp chopped fresh thyme 50g mushroom chopped 50g parmesan, grated 150g breadcrumbs 1 small egg, beaten 1 ½ tbsp tomato ketchup, plus extra to serve 1 tsp soy sauce A little plain flour 2 tbsp olive oil METHOD

Put the grated carrots, courgette and squash into a clean tea towel or muslin cloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Tip into a mixing bowl and add all the remaining ingredients except the flour and the olive oil.

Stir to combine and, using damp hands, shape the mixture into 24 little balls. Put the flour on a plate and roll the ball in it to coat. Heat the oil in a larger frying pan. Add the balls and fry for about 5 minutes or until lightly browned. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your pan. Allow to cool a little – you can serve with ketchup.

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Nanny Ash

COOKS

Ashley Campion INJEC TS SOM E FU N INTO M E ALTIM E S WITH TH R EE H E ALTHY R ECIPE S

10 months+

DESERT ISLAND POTATOES INGREDIENTS • Small baking potatoes • Handful of cooked broccoli • Handful of grated cheese • Handful of sliced ham METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 190°C and bake

126 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

the potatoes until a knife will easily slide straight through the centre.

2 Remove the potatoes and cut in half lengthways. Scoop the soft potato in the centre into a bowl, leaving the skin intact.

3 Mix the soft potato and broccoli

until it is a smooth consistency.

4 Then push the mixture back into the potato skin and sprinkle with ham and cheese.

5 Bake again for another 15 minutes or until golden.

6 Best served with sour cream to dip.

Telling a story about the food and where it has come from, be it fact or fiction, can help children have a new outlook on the foods they choose not to eat.

This time of year is well known for one thing, chocolate! As relatives try to push this and other sweets upon you and your child, here are a few recipes to help you sneak the fruit and veg back in. I’ve developed these meals to bring out the fun and make meal times happy times. Join in with your child and go for a dunk in the cheese fun-do or take a swim to the desert island potatoes.

TOP TIP

FOOD

12 months+

CHEESE FUN-DO

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

BANANA AND HONEY DROPS

ORE RECIPE M

UK

BY • BA

INGREDIENTS LO C • 2 ripe bananas N D O N. • Small handful of raisins • 1tbs honey • 4 sheets filo pastry • 20g melted butter METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C. 2 Mash the bananas with the raisins and honey.

3 Cut the filo sheets into squares about 12cm by 12cm.

4 Grease a muffin tin, one parcel per child is enough.

5 Use the melted butter to paint the filo squares then layer two of the squares on top of each other like a star. Place in your muffin tin, butter side facing down.

6 Add a teaspoon of the banana mixture in each one, then bring the sides up and pinch to seal.

7 Bake until golden (14-16 minutes).

8 Drizzle with a little honey before serving.

O.

12 months+

FIND

Make flags out of cocktail sticks and paper, and use them to help you dip. Or try a game to see who can collect the most sticks.

T• SA

TOP TIP

INGREDIENTS • 2tbs plain flour • 50g butter • 400ml milk • 400g mild Cheddar, grated (for older children you can increase the strength of the cheese) METHOD 1 Over a low heat melt the butter and mix in the flour until smooth.

Add the milk a third at a time, mixing with a balloon whisk to keep the mixture from becoming lumpy.

2 Add the cheese and keep stirring until you have a smooth, thick mixture ready for dunking.

3 You can choose from any favourite vegetables, crackers, meats or even breadsticks to dunk into your cheesy fun-do.

We decided to choose tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, crackers, mini sweetcorn, green beans and croutons.

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 127

SUCKING IS A NATURAL REFLEX FOR AN INFANT AND IT SERVES AN IMPORTANT PURPOSE

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HEALTH

ALL ABOUT…

THUMB SUCKING ORTH ODONTIST AN D CO -FOU N DER OF ON E OF LON DON ’S FIR ST TH UM B SUCKING CLINIC S, Dr Runa Mowla-Copley, R EVE AL S ALL

he topic of thumb sucking is one I see popping up frequently in various parent forums online. And it’s a highly-debated issue.

Parents often ask me: “My baby is sucking his thumb, should I worry?”; “Will thumb sucking ruin my child’s teeth?”; “How can I stop my toddler from sucking his thumb?”.

Digit sucking is a very common childhood habit with three quarters of infants sucking their thumb or fingers in the first year. Indeed, it is considered normal behaviour for babies and ultrasound scans have even observed babies sucking their thumbs in the womb.

Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant and it serves an important purpose, often providing a sense of security or contentment for a young child. It can also be relaxing, which is why many children suck their thumbs as they fall asleep.

The majority of experts agree that a thumb-sucker younger than five years shouldn’t be pressured to stop. Most will simply grow out of the habit. However, if it continues once your child starts school, it can have a negative effect on developing teeth and bite. Furthermore, it is important to break the habit if your child is sucking their thumb or finger when adult teeth start to grow.

The reason that thumbs and fingers are such effective tooth-movers and boneshapers is that the jawbones of children under eight years are especially soft and malleable.

Persistent digit sucking can also lead to speech problems such as lisping. But once the habit has been stopped, natural improvement of the teeth can occur within six months. If the habit breaks before the adult dentition becomes established (age seven or eight) your child is unlikely to have caused any long-term damage to their teeth.

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES

T

THUMB SUCKING HAS THE FOLLOWING EFFECTS ON THE MOUTH AND TEETH: Upper front teeth stick out. ✽ Anterior open bite where the upper and lower front teeth do not meet. ✽ Narrowing of the upper arch which leads to the development of a crossbite. ✽ Lower front teeth move inward. ✽

SO HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILDREN TO STOP? Home remedies, for example putting on a thumb guard or a glove before bedtime, or painting your child’s thumb with bitter-tasting nail polish can be successful if combined with positive reinforcement – remember to praise your child when they are not sucking their thumbs rather than scolding them when they are. And as most children suck their thumbs when they are tired or bored, keeping their hands busy helps.

Visit your dentist – it’s amazing what a few words from an expert to your child can do. I often get parents calling up saying that whatever I said to their child has magically made them break their habit overnight. Most children are unaware how their little thumbs can affect their mouth and teeth, and react in a very positive way when this is demonstrated to them. For the more determined digitsuckers, a habit breaker fitted inside the mouth may be the solution.

Is it worth the aggro? Yes, because over 60% of the UK’s 10-year-old digit suckers have very serious bite problems that can require lengthy (and costly) orthodontic treatment.

But for the time being, don’t worry: while they’re young, you can let your baby suck to their heart’s content – after all it’s such a handy self-soother! bl

ABOUT THE EXPERT Orthodontist Dr Runa Mowla-Copley is co-founder of one of London’s first Thumb Sucking Clinics and is now based at Quadrant Orthodontics and Richmond and Knightsbridge Orthodontics, which both have Thumb Sucking Clinics. Dr Runa is also author of Charlie’s Thumb.

Knightsbridge Orthodontics knightsbridgeorthodontics.com Quadrant Orthodontics quadrantorthodontics.com

CHARLIE’S THUMB Good news for all those despairing parents with a very stubborn little thumb sucker. Help is now at hand with a wonderfully illustrated new book from Dr Runa Mowla-Copley.

Meet Charlie who loves sucking his thumb all day and all night. A visit from the Tooth Fairy leads to some rather unusual events which make Charlie think perhaps sucking his thumb isn’t such a good idea after all.

Charlie’s Thumb is available online from Waterstones and Amazon.

(R Mowla Copley, £5.99).

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 129

WIN

a luxury Holiday LUXU RY TR AVEL E XPERT Powder Byrne OFFER S ON E LUCK Y FAMILY TH E TRIP OF A LIFE TIM E: A GR ECIAN GE TAWAY

ven with the worst of the cold and wet weather behind us, the need for some sun following such a long and gloomy winter is only natural. A bit of heat and a good dose of vitamin D, combined with some much needed rest, is something we all crave, but when you have a very young child in tow it can seem like a daunting prospect to turn such dreams into reality.

Thankfully, with over three decades of experience delivering personalised holidays under its belt, Powder Byrne knows exactly how to make travelling en famille as easy and stress-free as possible. They understand the concerns new parents have about travelling abroad, and make it their mission to create holidays that meet the needs of both parent and child, ensuring every member of the family has a chance to relax and re-charge their batteries while enjoying precious time together.

With their familyfocused services operating in a number of luxury resorts throughout the Mediterranean, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for the perfect destination to soak up some sun.

Right from the word go, Powder Byrne’s renowned pre-travel service for families eases any anxieties. The crèche manager who will be

E

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Powder Byrne is a luxury travel expert with over 30 years of experience

looking after your little one during your stay will call before the holiday to talk through your baby’s routine, find out about their likes and dislikes, and discuss what baby essentials you might need, from bottles and sterilisers to nappies and baby wipes, all of which will be conveniently waiting for you in your room on arrival. Its bespoke service ensures travelling is super smooth, booking flight departures that

suit you and organising private transfers to and from the resort.

Powder Byrne operates from the luxury Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort in Crete which is the perfect place to make the most of its family services while treating yourself to a gorgeous holiday in the sun. Being the Mediterranean’s southernmost island, Crete enjoys a warm climate late into the holiday season. Nestled into the hillside of the island’s northern fringes is where you’ll find Porto Elounda, a beautiful seaside retreat

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authentic Turkish hammam; or why not charter the hotel’s private yacht and enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing on deck and sampling excellent food with your family?

And if what you’re really seeking is a bit of time to yourself, then Powder Byrne’s crèche facilities, run exclusively for its clients, will ensure your little one is in safe hands, so you can enjoy a well-deserved break. The pb crèche is run by fully-qualified Englishspeaking staff, all with extensive experience in looking after babies and toddlers. The pb crèche makes full use of the amazing kids’ facilities at Porto Elounda which are second to none.

There are a number of kids-only pools, including one with a shaded area so infants can splash around safely, even at hotter times of the day. The private beach is sheltered and is a safe place for toddlers to paddle in the warm Mediterranean sea, always fully supervised. The spacious Children’s Ark is the ideal place for quieter time indoors, where little ones can enjoy creative activities, reading and sing-alongs.

Making the most of your time away is a priority and that’s why Powder Byrne’s team is on hand throughout your holiday and are there to ensure you make the most of what Porto Elounda has to offer. They will make all the necessary bookings and arrange babysitting for you. If you wish to venture

THIS BEAUTIFUL SEASIDE RETREAT OFFERS PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE BAY BELOW with some incredible panoramic views of the gorgeous bay below.

Whether your choice is an active holiday or one where you’re completely pampered, the resort’s mix of sporting and leisure facilities are second-to-none. With a long list of facilities that includes a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, a private beach and a PADI certified SCUBA centre, action-seekers will be right at home. But if luxury and relaxation is at the top of your agenda, the resort’s Six Senses Spa features 23 treatment areas including an

further afield, the Powder Byrne resort shuttle service is on hand to take you to nearby attractions on the island.

There’s nothing stopping you from jetting off this summer. Combining Porto Elounda with the expertise of Powder Byrne means it’s a perfect family holiday waiting to happen.

Prices start from £1,399 per adult for seven nights in September on a B&B basis, including transfers and full Powder Byrne service in resort. Flights not included.

Call 020 7246 5300 or visit the website. powderbyrne.com | portoelounda.com

CHANCE TO WIN Win a week’s holiday with Powder Byrne to experience Porto Elounda in Crete this summer for two adults and one child (aged four months to three years). The prize includes return scheduled flights and luxury transfers, accommodation in a family room including breakfast and dinner, and a place for one child in the pb crèche.

Holiday to be taken during the weeks of 29 August to 5 September or 5 to 12 September 2015. Competition closes 17 April. To enter visit: babylondon.co.uk/competitions

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 131

INTERVIEW

BON VOYAGE …WITH BABY!

Tamara Heber-Percy, CO -FOU N DER OF SMITH & FAMILY, TH E BABYFRIEN DLY COLLEC TION OF BOUTIQU E BOLTHOLE S, GIVE S H ER ADVICE FOR TAKING A BR E AK

TOP TRAVEL TIPS

1

Travel at a sensible time, avoid rush hour and fly on a Tuesday or Wednesday, if you can, as they are usually quieter.

mucky baby grows? Is there a baby-listening service or is the restaurant close enough to pick up the signal from your baby monitor?

2

5

Take a travel blackout blind: there’s a great brand called Gro Anywhere that makes foldaway blinds to attach to any window. Your baby can nap whenever he wants – and better still you can join him.

3

Check that you can get the right type of nappies and baby food, particularly if you’re loyal to a specific type, like Ella’s Kitchen (which are also conveniently portable). It’s not always easy to find organic baby food or biodegradable nappies in Europe.

4

Think about your routine at home and check what the hotel can provide: is there a washing machine or laundry service for

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8

It’s your holiday too: plan ahead so you can fit what you want to do around your baby’s feeding and naps.

Make friends with the people sitting next to you. Your neighbour may come in handy when you need an extra pair of hands, so get them onside early. I loved a story of one mum who gave out handwritten apology notes to those sitting around her, which got them onside immediately. Genius!

6

9

Check whether the hotel offers free use of travel cots or buggies. You may not need to take as much paraphernalia as you think, lightening your load.

7

Don’t pay for speedy boarding. This is one of the only times you’ll be able to head to the front of the boarding or check-in queue without having to pay extra. So make the most of it. There’s no need to waste time hovering at the back when you could already be settling your baby down for a nap.

If you have favourite muslins or soft toys, make sure they are separated from any bedding before housekeeping arrives. You don’t want them to disappear into the wash, it happened to us.

10

Relax! Remember, you’re on holiday too, so let your baby sleep when he needs to and don’t sweat the details. You’re there to enjoy yourself. bl

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

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

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ENVELOPED BY TH E CLE AR WATER S OF TH E AEGE AN SE A , SANI R E SORTS AWAITS YOU AN D YOU R FAMILY ith one of the most important flag-awarded beaches promise crystal clear bird sanctuaries in Greece, Sani safe water. Grab a copy of the new Sani Green Resort’s wetlands and gently rolling Booklet and jog, cycle or hike in the beautiful pine-forested hills give way to five miles of landscape. For sporty guests, the resort has immaculate white sandy beaches and luscious both a tennis and football academy. If guests gardens. Four five-star hotels – each with their wish to channel their inner Federer or Nadal, own unique ambience – promise an inspiring expert coaches are on hand to teach the best mix of accommodation including brand new, tricks individually or in group classes. spacious three-bedroom family suites at the You will find a mouth-watering selection Porto Sani Village which are large enough for of cuisine at the 18 restaurants, some centred families of seven or a group of six adults. around the vibrant Sani Marina, and others in Sani Resort is all about relaxation, so take more intimate hotel and beachside settings. it easy while your children are well-catered With an enticingly diverse culinary range that for with three Melissa crèches and mini includes modern Greek, Asian fusion, Italian clubs, which cater for children as young as and Japanese, every appetite is satiated. New fourmonths old, and one of which is just gluten-free dishes are also available. opening in Porto Sani Village this year. A Sani Resort has an enduring appeal for children’s paradise, this new space offers a those who want to be entertained, and baby and toddler room, separate peaceful those who simply want to delight in a sleeping spaces, fun themed play areas and a little beachside opulence. The emphasis is kitchen where they can enjoy the experience always on relaxed and efficient service with of baking cakes and biscuits. an attention to detail, ensuring your well Help is at hand even on the beach with deserved family holiday is just perfect. the dedicated beachside personnel who are there to look after young Two children stay free at Sani Beach Hotel and ones for a complimentary 30 minutes Sani Beach Club. At Porto Sani Village the first while you chill out. A great range of child stays free, and if you choose to stay in their baby paraphernalia is also provided three-bedroom suites you can also enjoy four upon request including baby cots, hours complimentary babysitting per day. Free bottle warmers, sterilisers, baby airport transfers for direct online bookings. phones and children DVDs. saniresort.com/baby15 Bound to be a hit with guests of all ages, the main outdoor swimming pools are now heated, one of the few resorts in Greece to offer this luxury. Sani Resort’s guests can now enjoy a warm swim in waters of 29°C in any season, perfect for guests enjoying a relaxing break in the late autumn or early spring and also great for little ones.

The breadth of activities Sani offers all the family is a big part of the resort’s attraction. The blue

W

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Marvellous MAURITIUS

TR AVEL E XPERT Alice Callander, AN D H ER TODDLER GEORGE, ROAD TE ST TH E ISL AN D’S MOST BABY-FRIEN DLY H OTEL S

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TRAVEL

t the end of last year I set off to explore the tropical island of Mauritius, with my husband and 20-month-old son George in tow. Together we tried and tested the countless resorts, beaches and kids’ clubs the island has to offer, mixing work with pleasure in order to compile the ultimate Sally and Alice Travel Co.’s family guide to Mauritius. As homework goes, I didn’t come off too badly at all.

I should note from the outset that Mauritius is no ‘hideaway destination’ – there are only a handful of boutique hotels on the island, the majority of which don’t tend to welcome children. But there are truly few places in the world that can beat Mauritius for a family holiday. It’s a year-round destination with average temperatures rarely dropping below 24°C, the beaches are gorgeous (particularly along the east and west coast) and as the island is almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs the water in the lagoons is calm, shallow and warm – perfect for those braving the water for the first time. Almost all the hotels come complete with babysitters, kids’ clubs, accommodating restaurants, and family suites. Perhaps most importantly, the staff are genuinely friendly and welcoming towards children, and go to great lengths to keep them happy and entertained.

A

THINGS TO KNOW FLIGHT TIME: Mauritius is a 12-hour, direct flight from London with British Airways or Air Mauritius. The GMT +4 hour time difference helps keep bedtimes to roughly the same time and means there’s minimal jet lag.

CLIMATE: January to April is the hottest and most humid time in Mauritius, with temperatures getting into the low 30s, so not advisable for young babies and toddlers who don’t fare well in the heat. This is their rainy season, with the peak rains and occasional cyclones occurring in January and February.

May to August is the ‘cooler’ period in Mauritius, although the daytime temperatures remain warm at around 25°C on average. This means the weather is ideal for children and those who don’t like it too hot. September to December is traditionally a great time to visit Mauritius, the temperatures are warmer, traditionally between 27°C and 30°C, and humidity is not at its peak.

Sally and Alice’s Top Travel Tips: ✽ There are some great deals to be had over the ‘winter’ season from May to September, with hotel rates often dropping by 30-50%. ✽ Baby-mooners and those with young babies looking for complete peace and quiet should avoid travel over school holidays, half-term breaks, Easter and Christmas when the hotels have the highest occupancy of kids. ✽ If you’re travelling during July and August, the north and west coast of Mauritius is generally a couple of degrees warmer than the east, due to the prevailing east-coast trade winds.

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Where to stay BEST BEACH FOR KIDS:

THE RESIDENCE The Residence is located on the island’s east coast on the lovely Belle Mare Plage – a luscious long stretch of white sand gently sloping into calm turquoise water. Despite being a large resort, The Residence feels relatively peaceful and intimate and is thus known in equal measure as a honeymoon and family getaway – no mean feat. It also offers great value for money.

Why we like it... ✽ The staff’s welcoming and friendly attitude towards kids. ✽ The broad range of family-friendly accommodation with plenty of interconnecting rooms on offer. ✽ The butler service – kids’ early suppers can be sent to the room in minutes. ✽ The excellent massages at the Sanctuary Spa. ✽ The Planter’s Kids’ Club is complimentary for children aged three and above and offers treasure hunts, snorkelling, body painting, glass bottom boat tours and pony rides. Under-threes can use the Kids’ Club with a parent or babysitter supervising.

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BEST FOR THE LITTLE TOUCHES:

LUX BELLE MARE

Just a stone’s throw from The Residence on the same stretch of beach is Lux Belle Mare.

The hotel was completely refurbished in 2014

by British interior designer Kelly Hoppen and is best suited for families and couples who want a bit more of a ‘buzzy’ atmosphere.

Why we like it… ✽ The thoughtful little extras throughout the resort, from the in-room iPad for use during your stay to the poolside fresh juice and gelato bar. We love the vintage phone box where guests can make international calls free of charge. ✽ Lux Belle Mare roast their own beans at the in-house Café Lux and it’s the best coffee on the island (they do a mean flat white). ✽ The funky beachside restaurant Beach Rouge which has a touch of the French Riviera with its airy white décor. ✽ The Kids’ Club which is complimentary for children aged three and above. On Fridays the club channels the popularity of The Great British Bake Off with ‘The Cake Boss’, where kids are given the chance to make and decorate their own cakes.

BEST ‘BOUTIQUE’ RESORT:

CONSTANCE LE PRINCE MAURICE Constance Le Prince Maurice is an all-suite hotel set along a sheltered coral sand beach and private lagoon on the north east coast of the island. Kids are very welcome at the resort, but the overall vibe here is of exclusivity and peace, not the place for belly flops, and it is thus best suited to couples and families with less ‘boisterous’ children.

Why we like it... ✽ Over-water lagoon villas on stilts (unique for Mauritius), the two bedroom suites and our personal favourite, the beach-front villas. ✽ The lovely and secluded garden “U Spa”. ✽ Barachois, the romantic floating restaurant reached via a lovely lantern-lit walkway. ✽ Lovely staff who have worked there for years, notably Akshada from guest relations and Corine who has run Les Pétits Princes kids’ club for 10 years. ✽ Unlimited golf and free green fees for guests on the two 18-hole courses at the sister property Constance Belle Mare Plage just 10 minutes away.

TRAVEL

BEST FOR PEACE AND TRANQUILITY: BEST ALL-VILLA ACCOMMODATION: BEST ALL-ROUNDER FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY:

ST REGIS

A relative newcomer, the St Regis resort is set against the backdrop of the iconic Le Morne Mountain in south west Mauritius and edges on to one of the most scenic shorelines of the island. St Regis was potentially our most exciting discovery on our trip – it’s a hit for those who want a grown-up hotel that seamlessly integrates children without compromising on style.

Why we like it... ✽ The general style, shall we say ‘Hamptons meets Mauritius’? ✽ The location, a long stretch of golden sandy beach with the dramatic Le Morne as a stunning backdrop. ✽ The amazing west-coast sunsets. ✽ Excellent food, from the smoked marlin tartine at the beach bar to the Asian feast at the Floating Market restaurant. ✽ Facilities galore, including a huge spa, a proper in-house cinema with plush leather seats and excellent kids’ club. ✽ Each room is assigned a ‘butler’ who takes care of your every need.

FOUR SEASONS

The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is set on a lagoon within a 64-acre, protected nature sanctuary. This resort is best suited to families, couples and honeymooners alike, especially those who would prefer the privacy of their own villa or residence (ranging from one bedroom to six bedrooms) and the excellent overall experience that the Four Seasons brand offers.

Why we like it... ✽ Each villa comes with a private landscaped terrace with plunge pool as well as an openair bathroom with deep soaking tub and outdoor garden shower. ✽ Unlimited golf for guests at no extra charge on the adjoining golf course which was designed by Ernie Els. ✽ Fabulous open-air cinema nights from the comfort of the beach. ✽ The seafood buffet at Bambou restaurant: one of our best meals, complete with sushi and oodles of grilled fish. ✽ The ‘Kids for all Seasons’ childcare facility is available to children aged between four and 12 years of age and the Hobbit Kids’ Club Village includes its own paddling pool, amphitheatre, bakery, quiet room, filmviewing area, playground and playroom.

THE OBEROI

Set in 20 acres of beautiful tropical gardens, The Oberoi overlooks Turtle Bay on the north west coast of Mauritius. Located 15km from the capital Port Louis, this is a place to unwind and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the beautiful tropical surrounds – and is thus better suited for baby-mooners and couples with young babies rather than older and more active and adventurous kids.

Why we like it... ✽ Beautiful and well-maintained gardens and grounds. If you travel between November and January you’ll see the gardens ablaze with the red foliage of Mauritius’ famous flame trees. ✽ The heavenly ‘adults only’ infinity pool which looks out over Turtle Bay. ✽ The intimate set up and table service at mealtimes, which makes the hotel feels less like a resort. ✽ The overall peace and quiet.

All of the Mauritius resorts mentioned have been given a high rating of approval from our in-house travel expert and the youngest member of the Sally and Alice Travel Co, 20-month-old George Callander.

Sally and Alice Travel Co. sallyandalice.com

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ESCAPE IN STYLE R EDEFINING TH E ALL-IN CLUSIVE CONCEP T, IKOS R E SORTS OFFER FAMILIE S A N EW ER A OF H OSPITALIT Y

reaming about a five-star getaway, where babies and toddlers are just as important as the adults? Bringing a new Infinite Lifestyle concept, Ikos Resorts in Greece offers beautiful beachfront settings and stylish accommodation. Whether you are seeking total relaxation or an active family holiday you won’t be disappointed.

Boasting two resorts in Halkidiki, Ikos Oceania and the recently added Ikos Olivia (due to open in May 2015) allow visitors both big and small a range of activities including tennis courts, beach badminton, aqua aerobics and yoga. Or if you’re more

D

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interested in heading to the water, you will also find sailing academy courses, scuba diving, and private boat tours. All dry land sports and non-motorised watersports are included in your stay.

If relaxing on the beach is more your game, the dedicated beachside personnel are on hand to look after young ones for a complimentary 30 minutes while you chill out. Putting your little one’s care at the forefront is paramount and both resorts have an OFSTED rated crèche and kids club with English speaking staff. A great range of baby paraphernalia can also be provided upon

request including baby cots, bottle warmers, sterilisers and DVDs for children.

Both Ikos Oceania and Ikos Olivia enjoy stunning surroundings, so why not admire the views alongside some fine dining? There are a number of exquisite dining options serving cuisine from around the world. If you choose to dine at one of the a-la-carte restaurants, some of them overseen by Michelin-starred chefs, take advantage of the experienced sommeliers and their extensive selection of local and international wines.

Plus you don’t have to “eat in” every night.

As part of their “dine out” experience, each

ADVERTORIAL

IKOS OLIVIA is opening in May 2015 and spreads across 450m of white sandy beach and 22 acres of lush gardens and olive groves. It offers spacious rooms and junior suites, which overlook the Aegean Sea. The luxury one and two bedroom suites with their private gardens (some with beachfront access and others with heated private pools) are the epitome of style and comfort.

IKOS OCEANIA has a stunning 350m long natural sandy beach, fringed by pines, olive groves and cypress trees.

It is set amongst 15 acres of gardens with elegant guest rooms and suites which offer panoramic sea views with Mount Olympus in the background. Service is exemplary so it’s no wonder Ikos Oceania was recently voted the number one all-inclusive resort in Europe by Tripadvisor.

The spa at Ikos Oceania

Ikos Resort has joined forces with a specially selected local restaurant, allowing you to take advantage of the tempting choice of traditional Greek dishes on offer while still enjoying the all-inclusive experience. Other perks are the 24-hour room service and beachside or poolside waiter service.

And after dinner if you’re pining some entertainment, Ikos promises West End style shows to keep the whole family entertained throughout the evening. If enjoying a relaxing drink is more your thing, head over to one of the superb bars with an appetising range of branded international and local spirits.

Both resorts offer a deluxe collection for the ultimate indulgence for visitors, benefits include a complimentary spa treatment, premium spirits in your mini bar, dedicated swimming pool and an exclusive area on the gorgeous beaches. These two luxury allinclusive hotels have stunning surroundings, exceptional service and facilities and most importantly the holiday that you and your family deserve.

Sumptious rooms at Ikos Olivia

Ikos Oceania poolside

PLANNING A GETAWAY? Transfer time for Oceania is 30 minutes, for Olivia it’s 45 minutes.

Direct flights to Thessaloniki International airport from London Gatwick (British Airways and Easyjet) and London Stansted (Ryanair).

A seven night holiday for two adults and two children at Oceania in a Junior Suite Sea View in May Half term costs €1753 including

transfers. Excludes flights.

A seven night holiday for two adults and two children at Olivia in a Panorama Junior Suite Sea View in May half term costs €1847 including transfers. Excludes flights. Bookings must be made before 28 February. reservations@ikosresorts.com ikosresorts.com Tel: 08081 110131

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FINANCE

Planning AHEAD I

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142 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT JUNIOR ISA

1

WHEN TO INVEST You can invest up to £4,000 in a Junior ISA each tax year. So you’ve got until midnight on the 5 April before this year’s allowance is lost.

CHOOSING A JUNIOR ISA THE SMARTER WAY

2 3

Currently, the best very high risk Junior ISA in our comparison tables is most likely to return 7.77% per annum over 18 years. This compares to just 3.75% for the best low-risk option, or even less in a cash ISA. More risk usually means higher returns in the long term, but more chance of loss in the short term. Junior ISAs are usually held for around 18 years, so it usually makes sense to take some risk.

CHOOSE HOW MUCH TO INVEST A regular direct debit is a popular way to pay into a Junior ISA and the limit allows just over £300 a month to be invested.

4 5

DECIDE HOW MUCH RISK YOU’RE COMFORTABLE WITH

SELECT A JUNIOR ISA You should aim to keep charges as low as possible and to ‘diversify’ your Junior ISA over a few different uncorrelated funds. We’ve got some very clever algorithms, which analyse thousands of different funds to find the best combinations available. The results are shown in our comparison tables, so it’s really easy to choose a low cost, diversified investment.

KEEP AN EYE ON IT Financial advisors usually recommend reviewing investments at least once a year to check they are still on track to hit their goals. All Junior ISAs bought via us come with our SmarterCare monitoring service. This is a free service which keeps an eye on your Junior ISA and alerts you if, for example, it falls off track to hit the target you’ve specified, or if there are alternatives available with higher projected returns.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

t’s 4 April and the little ones are asleep by 7pm. You’re curled up on the sofa with a nice glass of Sauvignon and Gogglebox has just started.

Then it hits you.

“Aaargh… the children’s ISAs! I forgot to set them up. Today’s the last day! Where’s the iPad? Oh… it’s Steph and Dom. I like them. I’ll just see what they think of MasterChef.”

We’ve all been there. There’s always something more important to do first.

But why do we subject ourselves to this annual torment? Simply put, children are priceless, and we all want to give them the best start in life.

Most people have an idea in their heads of what this means, perhaps: baby stuff (£3,000), nursery (£230 a week), possible school fees (£4,000 a term), university (£10,000 a year), first car (£5,000) and finally, the big one: help with house deposit (£25,000).

The scary bit is that this list adds up to a staggering £250,000. And that’s not even counting food and clothes.

So you drag your eyes away from Gogglebox, pick up the iPad and grit your teeth to sort out some ISAs. As managing partner of SmarterInvestment I know that picking the right investment for your child can be worth an extra £60,000.

That’s the difference between the best and worst investment in our comparison tables if you paid in £300 a month for 18 years. It’s astonishing, isn’t it?

As an actuary, I used to help big financial services companies look after their money.

SmarterInvestment is using exactly the same techniques to help people compare, buy and keep an eye on their investments.

Our website sets out to make buying an investment as easy as deciding which TV to buy on Amazon.

Our aim is to make investing that little bit easier, just go online to compare thousands of investments from over 90 top providers at SmarterInvestment. bl

AR E YOU STRUGGLING TO PICK TH E RIGHT JU NIOR ISA? Ben Pollard OFFERS A HELPING HAND

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 143

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EDUCATION

THE MAGIC of MONTESSORI Eleanor Doughty INVE STIGATE S TH E E THOS OF TH E MONTE SSORI N U R SERY SYSTEM

ending your little one to nursery is a big step. But how do you go about finding the right one when there seem to be so many options out there?

From small, independent nurseries with the sweetest uniforms, to larger day-care nurseries more suitable for parents working full-time, you need to weigh up the pros and cons, along with factors like the location, the ethos, the structure and the cost.

Whether your borough doesn’t have quite the one you’re looking for, or whether you turn up on the open day and find that half of west London has had the same idea too, the choice can be tricky to say the least.

But have you considered Montessori?

Italian educator and physician Maria Montessori developed the famed specialised education system in 1897. With the emphasis placed on independence and respect for

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

S

In a Montessori environment, the aim of every activity is to improve a key skill

a child’s natural social development, for many parents it offers a perfectly balanced education. Montessori saw that children already held something special within them; she conceived that if they were allowed to develop in a natural environment, they could prove their innate ability to care for the world around them, and those within it.

There are 190 Montessori nurseries across London, and they all come with their own

little character and identity. Due to the increasing popularity of the system, many are, inevitably, over-subscribed.

You may wonder why you should choose Montessori, over all the other nurseries that litter London’s chichi postcodes? “We chose Montessori because we liked the structure and focus on learning through play,” explains Kate Clark, whose two-and-a-half-year-old daughter attends one such nursery. “I was worried that she was too young, but she has thrived. She’s gone from saying a few words that only her Dad and I could understand to being able to hold short conversations with anyone.”

Maria Montessori understood for herself a few key notions about children and the way in which they should be educated. These range from peer-led learning – understanding that children gain from leading and helping each other – and sensory vision, to the notion that children love working with beautiful objects and are at their happiest when they are working towards something that makes them feel good about themselves.

The charm of this sort of education is in the independence of the children that attend. “Montessori education is based on the understanding that children have an innate capacity to learn and to educate

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 147

EDUCATION

themselves when placed in the right environment,” Anne-Marie True, Principal of Barnes Montessori explains. Montessori extends education beyong the classroom, and as talk in education circles turns to a focus on soft skills and self-confidence, helping your child down this path from early years is logical.

The Montessori way is to encourage children to be independent, setting them up for ‘big’ school and the wide world of prep diaries and boater hats that looms in the distance.

Self-discipline is top of the to-do list inside Montessori buildings. While discipline might

At Montessori schools, children ’s education is led by the pupil, not the teac her

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP Researching schools

where the Montessori nursery spans two different sites, emphasises the central role of each child. “The experience in the classroom is pupil-led, rather than teacher-led. It is based on facilitating a child’s self-expression and

THE MONTESSORI WAY IS TO ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO BE INDEPENDENT, SETTING THEM UP FOR ‘BIG’ SCHOOL

Children emerge from Montessori nurseries happy and confident

choices, by helping them to develop selfawareness and self-worth.”

Montessori schools focus on an education outside the standard frame. “Every little activity that they engage in – from measuring out food at lunchtime to selecting books to read, and from chopping and arranging flowers to choosing to paint a picture – has an educational benefit, whether it’s hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness or fine motor skills,” one mother explains.

These skills are of the utmost importance, for when you are choosing an educational base of any kind, the final product is an important factor to consider. What will your child ‘be’ like when they finish and move on to the next stage? It is a crucial question to ask when looking around and observing pupils during the school day. Children that emerge from Montessori nurseries, are – both O’Sullivan and True confirm – confident, happy and independent.

The liberated style of learning has gained momentum in pre-schools nationwide, as they seek to include elements of Maria Montessori’s theory into their curriculum, enabling more children to benefit from her approach to learning. Wherever you decide to send your child, consider the children you meet when looking around. Are they happy, relaxed and sociable? If the answer is yes, then you’ve found your nursery. mci.montessori.org.uk

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If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector.

The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to Sixth Form, and includes comprehensive directory of independent schools in the United Kingdom as well as advice for parents to help them make the right educational decisions for the future.

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines.com/ independent-school-parent or call 020 7349 3700 The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

induce Victorian visions of lining up outside classrooms, in a Montessori environment, discipline is managed on an individual basis.

“Children in a Montessori setting enjoy enormous freedom to choose within the limits of the prepared environment,” says the Montessori St Nicholas charity. The approach is not unlike the one taken by many parents at home, allowing children to explore and find things independently, but protected and overseen by an adult. Carlotta O’Sullivan, Principal of Fulham’s Sinclair House School,

Independent Day School for Girls from 4 -18 years Queen’s Gate School offers girls a friendly, supportive environment, where individuality is nurtured, academic standards are high and where a broad based curriculum ensures a well rounded education.

For a prospectus, or to make a private visit to the School, please contact the Registrar Miss Janette Micklewright, on 020 7594 4982 or email, registrar@queensgate.org.uk Queen’s Gate Junior School 125-126 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5LJ

Queen’s Gate Senior School 131-133 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5LE

www.queensgate.org.uk

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Introducing the Rumina Cape £29, the must have breastfeeding cover for chic mummies wanting to feel comfortable and look great whilst feeding.

A unique foldaway system makes them ideal for your change bag or clutch.

Team with a Rumina Pouch £12, the most glam breast-pad holder known to woman.

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www.tamarillolondon.com babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 149

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150 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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EDUCATION

MEET THE HEAD How long have you been working at Sinclair House School?

I joined as a teacher 15 years ago, and have been head of the school for 10 years. I am proud that the same values-led educational philosophy that attracted me remains to this day.

CARLOTTA TM O’SULLIVAN Sinclair House School We go behind the scenes with the principal to find out more about the Fulham-based school

How would you describe the ethos of your school?

The school’s ethos is orientated around providing a holistic education that values personal, emotional and academic development. The hallmark of our teaching style is a flexible approach which nurtures the progress of a broad range of learners – supporting each child’s unique talents. Children are taught to be open-minded and tolerant, learning about different cultures and backgrounds within the school.

In 2013, we opened a preparatory school on Fulham High Street and now take ages four to 13, while the Montessori nursery has expanded to two sites in Fulham.

Throughout the development, we have worked hard to ensure that we maintain a commitment to our values. We have retained a strong sense of community and adhered to our traditional principles: small class sizes with capped pupil numbers, individualised teaching and tailored academic support.

Can you tell us a bit about the school’s history?

The school opened in Fulham in 1989 as a small co-educational nursery and pre-prep, with a strong tradition of academic success at the Seven Plus stage.

How do you help ensure every student achieves their potential?

Personalised guidance and educational support are central to our offering. We provide a motivational learning environment which is dynamic

and challenging, enabling and facilitative. Staff instil a sense of self-belief in every pupil so that they feel encouraged to develop their talents in all areas of the curriculum, as well as beyond the classroom, and most of all pursue these with confidence.

Our high teaching ratio means pupils are always supported in addressing any areas of weakness.

In addition, we have a range of charity and community events

which help to prepare pupils for life beyond Sinclair House School.

Children leave ready to follow their passions with confidence, compassion and integrity.

What kind of feedback does the school receive?

Parents tell us that they feel their children are well looked after, feel safe and are happy: a testament to our educational approach.

Meanwhile, a recent ISI report said our pupils are high achievers, are cheerful and demonstrate a high standard of personal development. We emphasise our privileged link with the parents and place great importance on transparent communication.

Where do you see Sinclair House School in the future?

The coming years are sure to bring growth. This autumn saw the first two-form entry for Reception and Year One and this increased demand indicates that we will see this growth mirrored further up the school. bl T: 020 7736 9182 W: sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 151

A SELEC TION OF

LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

Groups & Classes 152 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

THE JOY OF MUSIC Knightsbridge, Kensington, Notting Hill, Chiswick The Little London Music School introduces your child to the joy of music and builds a foundation for learning an instrument. Specialising in classically based music, they offer classes and instrumental tuition for children aged six months to five years.

Their classes feature a tailormade curriculum for each stage of development. With professional musicians, teachers and live orchestral instruments, their comprehensive and stimulating curriculum is designed to foster enjoyment and the understanding of music.

Enjoy a free trial class.

07530 459 468 info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

THE BEST CHILDREN’S SPORTS CLUB IN TOWN! Classes in Battersea, Brook Green, Chiswick, Ealing, Fulham, Knightsbridge and Kensington Discover your toddlers’ sporting talent at The Little Foxes Club.

Children from 18 months will gain new skills and confidence through playing sports with others. Their fun, active sessions are run all year round, both indoors and outdoors.

Classes are age-specific which encourages even the shyest child to make new friends. Parents can relax and watch their child’s motor skills develop amidst joy and laughter.

Come rain or shine, going to the park has never been so much fun!

020 7376 0006 info@thelittlefoxesclub.com thelittlefoxesclub.com

AS SOON AS YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN PLAY FOOTBALL!

WHERE CHILDHOOD MEMORIES BEGIN

Classes across London The very best football coaching for toddlers and children for ages 18 months up to seven years. The classes are unique as they involve the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Join the fun and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks Football Classes!

Birthday party, private and holiday classes, nursery and after school sessions also available. Kiddikicks is now available to franchise – contact Kiddikicks now to change your life.

Sign up to receive your player’s free kit (registration fees apply).

020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk

Clubs in Kensington and Chiswick Maggie & Rose classes are adapted so little ones from just three months old can take part.

Join the ‘food fairies’ in the cookery schools, toddle into the Art Studios and sing at the top of your lungs! Enjoy their newly-renovated Kensington club or try out Maggie & Rose in Chiswick – it’s an amazing 12,500 square foot space, complete with café, soft play lounge, cinema snug, roof terrace, Boogie Bus for the big kids and even a Village Nursery.

The adventures are endless, the skills learnt are invaluable. Maggie & Rose is where childhood memories begin!

020 7371 2200 Kensington 020 8994 7211 Chiswick maggieandrose.com

GROUPS & CLASSES

LITTLE MATHS, RHYTHM AND SHAPES

FIRST AID FOR LIFE

Classes for ages two to three and three to four years Encourage your little one's natural curiosity for the world around them with Little House of Science’s funfilled Little Maths Toddler workshops for children aged two to four years.

Classes are aimed at building your child’s confidence with quantities and numbers from one to 10, all supported by exciting themes, such as Sea World and Arctic Animals, and a stimulating mix of rhythm, music, shapes and colours. Classes and times: SW3 10-10:50 and 11-11:50; W8 Thursdays 1010:50 and 3-3:50; W11 Mondays 3-3:50; NW3 Tuesdays 10-10:50.

0800 092 1062 info@littlehouseofscience.com littlehouseofscience.com

Every year over a million children are taken to Accident and Emergency following accidents in the home – it is vitally important that those caring for them know how to help.

First Aid for Life is an award winning and fully regulated First Aid training company and the leading provider of exemplary training in Greater London.

Their trainers are highly experienced medical and emergency services professionals who will tailor the course to your needs.

They run scheduled courses for individuals in Balham and Westminster or one of their trainers will come and run a bespoke course at a time and place that suits you.

0208 675 4036 emma@firstaidforlife.org.uk firstaidforlife.org.uk

NURTURING A LIFETIME OF MUSIC

THE NEST NURTURING YOU FROM BUMP TO BEYOND

Award-winning pre-school music classes for children aged three months to four years. Monkey Music has 20 years’ experience of providing entertaining classes that captivate both children and adults with a combination of songs, activities, percussion instruments and props.

Monkey Music’s progressive curriculum encourages children to grow in confidence, improve listening, communication and concentration skills, and make new friends. Classes are offered in Putney, Barnes, Parsons Green, Fulham, Chelsea, Gloucester Road, Belgravia, Kensington, Notting Hill, Primrose Hill and Hampstead.

Check their website for timetable and book your complimentary session. monkeymusic.co.uk

Are you a new mum or mum-to-be?

London's best-kept maternity secret dedicated to nurturing mums from bump to beyond, The Nest offers a host of exercise classes from Pregnancy Ballet, aimed at strengthening your body and improving flexibility in preparation for birth, to Pregnancy Yoga and Mum & Baby Ballet classes. The Nest also have pre and postnatal educational workshops including HypnoBirthing, First Aid and Breastfeeding.

More than a professional support, The Nest is a community of likeminded women sharing in the same experience.

07807882519 info@thenestmaternity.co.uk thenestmaternity.co.uk

AWARD-WINNING AND INTERACTIVE CLASSES Gymboree’s commitment to quality is unsurpassed and every day thousands of parents and carers across the UK choose them because they want the best for themselves and their children.

The team have a simple goal: to provide the best Play and Learn, Art and Music classes for newborn to five year olds in the world! With over 30 years of experience, their classes and activities are based on a blend of early childhood development theories, with years of hands-on experience.

Gymboree’s tried-and-tested formula with physical, social, sensory and imaginary elements make for 45 minutes of fun. Enjoy challenging and age-appropriate activities which help your little ones through the crucial early stages. Themes, props and setups change frequently.

Members also get exclusive access to Open Gym free play sessions at their site. Little ones can bring any adult along with them to play in a clean, colourful and safe environment with purpose-built equipment. Art classes start from 18 months and let children be the artist. Self-expression and creativity are inspired by painting, drawing, printing and more. Music classes run from six months, using a global mix of language and genres from ‘the classics’ to more modern sounds.

Sensory Baby Play classes start from newborn and feature sensory and physical stimulation from a varied mix of props and activities. Little ones become attentive and interested in their growing understanding of the world with songs, tactile play, physical games and more.

Free trial classes available at: Bayswater and Notting Hill, Bromley, Chiswick, Clapham, Docklands, Ealing, East Dulwich, Hampstead, Harrow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Putney, Wandsworth and Wimbledon. gymboree-uk.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 153

A D V E R T I S E M E N T F E AT U R E

Introducing the NEW Wafers from Kiddylicious.

Q: Why Wafers?

When my kids were little I always looked for yummy, healthy snacks to feed them.

When I discovered these great tasting wafers with no added nasties I knew they would be perfect for little ones from around six months onwards. I love them because each Kiddylicious Wafer is the perfect size for little fingers to grasp with gentle flavours that appeal to developing taste buds and what’s more they’re mess free!

Sally Preston, Food scientist, Mum and founder of Kiddylicious

Q: What is so special about your wafers?

Our new wafers have a special light texture that dissolves easily – comforting for teething babies and perfect for first foods onwards.

We are launching with three flavours: banana, blueberry and carrot but if readers have ideas for new flavours please get in touch.

I love them because it helps us to help Mums keep little ones happy when they are first discovering food.

Vanessa Panter, Mum and Marketing Manager, Kiddylicious

When we asked our panel of mums and dads to try them for us – this is what they said:

I have just started weaning my little one and she loves being able to hold onto these carrot wafers and dip them into hummus. I love them because it relieves her teething pain and has helped her with her hand to mouth coordination.

Simone Mahgiub, Mum of 2 We went on a long car journey recently and stopped to have a picnic in the car. The banana flavoured wafers were fantastic – my little boy was able to join in and feed himself.

I love them because there was no mess and the car isn’t full of crumbs!

Suzie Jay, Mum of 1 We always seem to be in a queue or waiting room and having snacks handy is so important to keep the little ones quiet! I love them because they come in a twin pack that I can keep in my handbag for a convenient and mess free snack!

My little one is fussy about texture and doesn’t like anything soggy. The banana wafers were great as he could get a good grip on them and have a chew. I love them because they soften well in the mouth so I don’t have to worry about him swallowing them too soon.

Mohit Saluja, Dad of 1 My little girl hates strong flavours. These blueberry wafers are so delicately flavoured and she really seems to like them.

I love them because it has given me a bit more variety to her snacks - there are only so many sliced pears a child can eat!

Samantha Bell, Mum of 2

Sonia Harman, Mum of 1

Why wait? Sign up on the website below to receive a free sample of our new wafers*:

www.kiddylicious.co.uk/wafer-taster

Find us in the baby aisle or online: Follow us KiddyliciousUK

is just delicious!

Like us KiddyliciousUK

www.kiddylicious.co.uk Kiddy Care: Kiddylicious Wafers are specifically developed for babies from six months. Always supervise young children whilst they are enjoying them. *Terms and conditions apply, please see www.kiddylicious.co.uk/terms-and-conditions for full details.

SHOPPING

London

Boutiques A FIN E SELEC TION OF HAN D -PICKED LON DON BOUTIQU E S. H ER E’S OU R SHOPPING GUIDE

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 155

SHOPPING

ILOVEGORGEOUS

Created by designer duo Lucy Enfield and Sophie Worthington, both mothers of three with backgrounds in fashion, ilovegorgeous is every girl’s (big or small) dream boutique. An Aladdin’s cave of curiosities collected by Lucy and Sophie on their travels, the shop compliments the brand’s evident ethos: fun and feminine, with a little sprinkle of sparkle too. Their collection is well-known for its super-sweet little party dresses which also includes more everyday pieces.

52 LEDBURY ROAD, LONDON W11 2AJ | 73 REGENTS PARK ROAD, LONDON NW1 8UY ilovegorgeous.co.uk

OLIVE LOVES ALFIE

Blazing the style trail in the world of children’s retail since 2006, Olive Loves Alfie offers a handpicked selection of imaginative clothing, interiors, and unique toys for stylish little ones aged newborn to 14 years. We’re talking really fun, brightly coloured clothing with quirky prints from a good mix of lesser-known brands including Rukka, Modéerska Huset and Little Tailor. Olive Loves Alfie’s founder Ashlyn Gibson also designs her own pieces, for the cherry on top.

84 STOKE NEWINGTON CHURCH STREET, LONDON, N16 0AP olivelovesalfie.co.uk

NOT SO BIG

Named after Roald Dahl’s imaginary crocodile, Notsobig brings the life and soul of these childhood tales to the world of fashion. Unique, fun, and eclectic childrenswear is sourced from around the world, and includes cool, colourful pieces for everyday, as well as some special occasion wear. The collection has real character with just the right amount of ‘trendy’ thrown into the mix, making this little store in leafy north London a jolly worthwhile visit.

31A HIGHGATE HIGH STREET, LONDON, N6 5JT notsobigshop.com

ELIAS AND GRACE

For style conscious parents who want to avoid their little one’s wardrobe looking too ‘cutesy’, Elias and Grace’s collection offers childhood sophistication in bucket-loads. Designer brands like Chloé and Emile et Ida rub shoulders with Acne and Little Remix to give the quintessentially French style of the collection a touch of cool. The store’s hip elegance has earned it a host of devotees and remains the designer destination for mini style setters.

158 REGENTS PARK ROAD, PRIMROSE HILL, LONDON NW1 8XN eliasandgrace.com

MERINO KIDS

Merino Kids’ showroom, located in Northcote Road, is a breath of fresh air, bedecked with all things cute and cosy. The team at Merino Kids know how important sleep is to little ones; check out their award-winning Go Go Bag and Cocooi swaddle baby wraps. From the fabric to the finish, their collection is internationally renowned for its quality. If you’re looking for silky soft, light, kind-to-delicate-skin sleepwear, Merino Kids is the perfect solution.

151 NORTHCOTE ROAD, LONDON SW11 6QB merinokids.co.uk

LA COQUETA KIDS

Putting a contemporary spin on classic designs and simple silhouettes La Coqueta offers a range of adorable items for children ages zero to 12, including little Bermuda shorts with braces for boys and sweet smock dresses with peter pan collars and cosy, cashmere cardigans for girls.

The traditional elements of the brand’s designs are balanced by fun, retro patterns and cuts, creating a collection that has timeless appeal but with a modern twist.

5 HEATH STREET, LONDON NW3 6TP lacoquetakids.com

156 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOPPING

THE ELFIE BOUTIQUE

An antidote to today’s glut of sugary sweet childrenswear, Elfie’s vintage style is sweet in all the right ways. With inspiration drawn from nature and the great outdoors, the designs of this homegrown British children’s brand are fun and creative while being practical. The boutiques’ shelves are lined with quirky offerings, from Elf bonnets and ethereal capes to Fair Isle jumpers and desert boots. Possibly the most charmingly British boutique around.

27 CHILWORTH STREET, LONDON W2 3HA elfielondon.com

CARAMEL BABY & CHILD

Caramel’s gorgeous collection for babies up to 12 years manages to be both understatedly cool and adorably sweet at the same time. You’ll find a mix of trendy and timeless pieces for everyday dress, as well as for special occasions and there’s also a small but well-edited selection of toys and home décor pieces. Pop into their new store in Soho or their popup in Shoreditch for the ultimate experience in beautifully crafted, on-trend and luxurious children’s clothing.

STORES ACROSS LONDON FROM SW3 TO E1 caramel-shop.co.uk

NECK AND NECK

Everything you’ll find at Neck and Neck is perfection, down to the smallest detail, and their super-smart, classic style collection has already been given the nod of approval by the royal baby trend-setter himself, with Prince George wearing a pair of Neck and Neck’s red and white striped overalls to the Polo last June. Make like the Royals, and head to this lovely boutique in Chelsea to find timeless pieces that will give your little one’s wardrobe a hint of European chic.

73 DUKE OF YORK SQUARE, SLOANE SQUARE SW3 4LY | 18 HILL RISE, RICHMOND TW10 6UA neckandneck.com

BLUE ALMONDS

Since the Duchess of Cambridge was spotted browsing the beautifully adorned shelves of Blue Almonds back in 2013, the Chelsea boutique has gained a reputation as the one-stop-shop for all things luxury – and quite rightly. As well as fashion, the boutique specialises in bespoke children’s interiors and gorgeous accessories from a good mix of international labels including Spanish brand Paz Rodriguez, Olli Ella chairs and Italian cashmere from Masserano.

164 WALTON STREET, LONDON SW3 2JL bluealmonds.co.uk

PURE BABY

BELLE ENFANT

Belle Enfant offers effortlessly chic baby clothing and accessories for newborns up to two year olds. Designed in-house and sourced from a select number of expert suppliers, Belle Enfant’s collection may be small, but the focus on quality and style makes each piece worthy of your attention. Plus a beautiful range of accessories including gorgeous pom-pom trimmed hats, scarves and ‘cute as a button’ mittens to keep your little one toasty on chilly spring mornings. belleenfant-boutique.com

ON LIN E

Since opening its doors on the Fulham Road in 2004, Pure Baby has fast become the go-to store for beautiful children’s clothes, baby outfits, nursery furniture, gifts for newborns, nappy bags and everything in between. Founded by mothers Claire and Sarah-Jane, the boutique’s maternal understanding has made it an indispensable haunt for mothers and mothers-to-be, and more importantly, for their tots and toddlers.

208 FULHAM ROAD, LONDON SW10 9PJ purebaby.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2015 | 157

YOUR SHOPPING

emporium

The Fine Cotton Company Soft to the touch, kind on your conscience

Organic bedding & accessories for children & babies

www.thefinecottoncompany.com

19 Sheen Road (opposite Waitrose car park), Richmond, TW9 1AD www.richmondpractice.co.uk mail@richmondpractice.co.uk

158 | MAR/APR 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

EMPORIUM

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Cozio extra large muslin squares are perfect for swaddling your baby.

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BUSINESS

The Duchess of Cambridge chose to wear Séraphine

INSPIRE What inspired you to set up your maternity business Séraphine?

Fashion has always been a big part of my life – my grandparents supplied fabrics to some of the top fashion houses in Paris, but it wasn’t until my friends started to fall pregnant that the idea for Séraphine came about. They had trouble finding maternity clothes they liked, and used to come to me with alteration requests.

I spotted a gap in the market for fashion-forward maternity clothes and the business developed from there.

Where is home and where do you work from?

I’m originally from Paris, but have been living in London for many years now. I live in Belsize Park, a lovely area and wonderful for my two boys. As for work, we’re currently based in Queen’s Park.

Describe a typical day…

For me, mornings are for family time. I work later hours so that I can spend time with my boys, make them breakfast and drop them off at school before

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CECILE REINAUD

We talk fashion, family and dressing royalty with founder of maternity brand Séraphine heading into the office at 10am.

I spend the morning catching up with my team; touching base with the design department and PR, checking the daily sales stats, alongside merchandising and web teams. I try to spend the rest of the morning at my desk answering emails.

After a quick lunch, I tend to spend my afternoons splitting myself between different meetings. Then once the office has cleared out around 6pm, I use the last hour to research fashion trends and work on ideas for the next collection without having to deal with any distractions.

When I get home I’ll fix something quick for dinner, and then crash out on the sofa with my husband and a welcomed glass of wine.

Séraphine’s signature ss knot-front maternity dre

How do you find juggling a family with running a business?

Prioritising becomes very important, I write a to-do list of 10 things at the beginning of each day, then cross off the three least important and accept that they just won’t get done today.

When it comes to time with my children I believe that quality over quantity is best.

What’s the best thing about being a mother?

Giving unconditional love and seeing your children grow up into interesting individuals.

And the hardest?

Lack of sleep and me-time.

What’s your secret to staying (or trying to stay) balanced?

As women, I think we all have a tendency towards perfectionism,

so it can be easy to beat ourselves up about the little things we haven’t managed to do. It’s always a better idea to try and focus on the positives.

Who are your inspirations?

Designers Diane Von Furstenberg and Tory Burch; musicians Beyoncé and Nora Jones; dancer Sylvie Guillem and choreographer Russell Malyphant.

How did it feel when the Duchess of Cambridge was first spotted in Séraphine?

It's been such an honour to dress the Duchess of Cambridge at such a special time in her life. My team and I are always delighted to see her looking so well in Séraphine, and are so pleased that she has enjoyed the brand again in her second pregnancy.

Any future plans you can share?

We recently opened our flagship US store in New York, which is doing fantastically well. And we have exciting expansion plans for the coming year – our next international location is LA. bl seraphine.com

And so the adventure begins.

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