Baby London May/June 2015

baby london MAY/JUNE 2015

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BABYLONDON.CO.UK

ARE YOU READY? COPING WITH YOUR

NEWBORN

HOME or HOSPITAL

20% OFF

IN STO

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E AT

Kimberly WYATT

FORMER PUSSYCAT DOLL DANCES HER WAY BACK INTO PRE-BABY SHAPE

LET’S PLAY GETTING THE BEST OUT OF YOUR BABY

HOW TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU

MAKE IT WORK! THE ART OF BALANCING BABIES WITH BUSINESS

LIBERTY RETURN OF THE ICONIC PRINT

BRIGHT young THING

SPRING INTO SUMMER WITH FLYING COLOURS

MODEL & MAMA MARGHERITA

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The Merino Kids™ Cocooi™ (“Ko-Koo-e”) range has been designed especially with the safety and comfort of the newborn to 3 months in mind. The range includes the awardwinning Cocooi™ swaddle wrap – THE WORLD’S FIRST made from 100% superfine Merino wool.

Our Merino is non-synthetic, guaranteeing a baby is getting the best start in life. Layers of Merino work perfectly for extra warmth on cold nights by trapping air between its fibres. But a little body will never get too hot thanks to Merino’s unique ability to draw moisture away from the surface of the skin, keeping it dry and comfortable.

Medical studies have found that babies and infants sleeping in or on Merino settle more quickly, sleep longer, feed better, cry less and gain weight faster.

Swaddling is an age-old practice that promotes healthy sleep patterns by helping babies feel comfortable and more settled. Swaddling with the Cocooi™ Swaddle is safe owing to the thermo-regulating qualities of Merino wool and its clever, patented design.

www.merinokids.co.uk Call +44 (0)207 738 0977 or visit us at 151 Northcote Road, Battersea SW11 6QB * 20% discount is only available on full-priced items. Use the coupon code BL0515 on our website or present this advert at our showroom. Offer ends 31/07/15 while stocks last and excludes certain items. Visit website for terms and conditions.

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Who says cool design is only for grown-ups? Visit made.com/kids to see our brand new kids range, crafted by expert makers and talented designers.

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CONTENTS MAY/JU N E 2015

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN CLOTHES: TOP FROM BONPOINT, KNICK KNACKS FROM NO ADDED SUGAR, BABY MARY JANES FROM BONPOINT

60 FEATURES

42 MEET THE AUTHOR We catch up with world-famous writer and illustrator Oliver Jeffers 57 MAMA MISSONI Caroline Leeper chats to fashionfocused mother Margherita Missoni 72 BABY ON BOARD Up your pedal power this spring 75 IN LOVE WITH LIBERTY The latest trend storming into our nurseries and beyond 88 BRINGING BABY HOME Louisa Van den Bergh shares the reality of life with a newborn

91

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108

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132

SCANNING FOR SUCCESS Obstetrician Keith Duncan takes a closer look at antenatal scans THE REALITY OF A HOME BIRTH Vanessa Christie describes her two home birthing experiences RECIPE FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS Kate Finney talks to food guru Annabel Karmel about cooking up her company ISLAND LIVING We travel to Mauritius to learn about life with a new baby in tropical paradise BABIES WHO LUNCH How your baby can eat their way to weaning success

138 TIME TO PLAY How to get the most out of playing with your little one

STYLE

44 BEAUTIFUL BUMP Fresh, new maternity style for a summer-ready wardrobe 55 SHOP THE SHOOT Our elegant edit for dressing your bump and beyond 60 CLUB TROPICANA Summer-inspired fashion for baby 70 SHOP THE SHOOT Our pick of the fruitiest little outfits

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 9

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Editor Kate Finney Managing Editor Rebecca Moore 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

128

Publisher Annabella Ward Associate Publisher Stephanie Organ Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Marketing Manager Will Delmont Digital Media Manager James Dobson

SHOPPING

25 BABY LONDON LOVES Indulge your passion for pattern 27 SHOP BY COLOUR The must-haves in every shade 79 THE REVIEW Resident reviewer Laura Mason puts baby carriers to the test 87 PAINT POT INTERIORS Give your home a double dose of colour

TRAVEL

115 TRAVEL NEWS Prepare to pack your bags 116 SUNSATION Keeping your baby safe in the sun 125 A POSTCARD FROM KENYA An African adventure with a new baby

REGULARS

17

35

40

81

94

101 104

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small MY ESSENTIALS Jessica Naylor-Leyland talks jewellery and motherhood BOOKS FOR BABY The very best colour-inspired books for budding bookworms TOT GEAR Kate Finney tests the new Uppababy Vista; plus we look at double buggies MEET THE EXPERTS Our professionals give advice on bump, birth and beyond HOW TO… SWADDLE Midwife Vicki Scott’s top tips DIARY OF A MUM This time mother-of-three Becky Dickinson tackles “working from home”

10 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Client Development Manager Lesley McDiarmid Key Accounts Manager Jessica Way Sales Executives Amy Thacker, Coco Strunck, Jane Karger, Katie Amps, Laura Prowse

Kimberly Wyatt an d little

Willow (p.112)

107 TIME TO TALK… Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt discuss maternity leave and returning to work 111 HEALTH AND BEAUTY NEWS The latest in the world of wellbeing 112 MUM ON A MISSION New mother Kimberly Wyatt on keeping her dancing shoes firmly on her feet 127 FOOD NEWS For the smallest of diners 128 TASTE THE RAINBOW Annabel Karmel’s fun and fruity recipes 134 NANNY ASH COOKS Ashley Campion takes tomatoes to a new level in four healthy recipes 137 EDUCATION NEWS The latest from the classroom 140 MEET THE HEAD We talk sport with the head of PE and Games at St Benedict’s Junior School 142 CHOOSING A SCHOOL Charlotte Phillips, contributor to The Good Schools Guide, offers advice 145 MINI AGENDA What’s on in the capital 150 GROUPS AND CLASSES A selection of local activities 152 GET MORE… Our exclusive competitons and offers 155 BOUTIQUES Our guide to shopping in the capital 162 INSPIRE The founders of Joseph Joseph talk to us about all things colour and kitchens Oliver Jeffers takes us into his world p.4 2

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

Baby London ISSN 2040-8550 | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Production All Points Media Printed by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2015 All rights reserved

SUBSCRIBE Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive Baby London magazine for a year, delivered straight to your door all for just £14.99.

PLUS we’ll send you a £20 JoJo Maman Bébé gift voucher absolutely FREE! Simply visit:

babylondon.co.uk/subscribe 01442 820 580

PHOTOGRAPHER: HELEN MARSDEN MODEL: DARCEY Roberto Cavalli at Childrensalon

igo pure Nature.

Tenderness.

Comfort.

Purity.

The perfect necklace for announcing a new arrival...

Mirabelle Stork Necklace £50 | whistles.com

EDITORʼS

LETTER

Fruity fashion from Tortue de Mer

Bioplastic Stacker £15.49 | toyella.com

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KATE FINNEY, EDITOR

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Join me online…

Babylondonmagazine

@Baby_London

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UK

Baby Daisy Dress £55 | ilovegorgeous.co.uk

and founder of Cyclechic, has shared her tips for kitting out your bike to cater for a little passenger (p.72), including all the accessories and safety gear your heart could desire.

Following new NHS guidelines that home births may be better for mothers and just as safe for babies, we asked one mother for the inside story on delivering her two daughters at home (p.98). The idea of being in a familiar setting is an attractive one… although I’m not sure how keen I’d be to unload the dishwasher in between contractions!

For those of you mapping out your maternity leave, or planning your return to work, we have brilliant advice from Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt (p.107), plus the reality of working from home in our latest instalment from Diary of a Mum (p.104). Or if, like so many new mothers out there, you’re hatching a plan to start your own business, don’t miss our interview with mumpreneur Annabel Karmel (p.108). And if that all sounds like way too much hard work, check out our travel section and get prepared for a well-deserved holiday!

KEE

first maternity We’re so excited to have our fashion shoot in this issue

Summer is on the horizon, and with the days getting longer and lighter we’re ready to celebrate! And that’s not all we’re celebrating at Baby London, as I’m thrilled to be expecting another baby. Having made it through the first (and in my opinion worst!) trimester, I’ve finally been rewarded with renewed energy levels and I am vowing to try and enjoy this pregnancy as it could well be my last. So with this in mind, I’ve been paying special attention to our fabulous maternity fashion shoot (p.44), which also includes some very clever non-pregnancy pieces. There seems to be more choice than ever before, so we’ve done the hard work for you and sought out some of the most stylish maternitywear finds in our ‘shop the shoot’ edit (p.55).

Now that the sun is out, we’re embracing colour throughout this issue, with the brightest and fruitiest new fashion buys for your baby (p.60), the best baby books about colour (p.40) and a selection of interiors products guaranteed to make you smile (p.87).

One of the biggest game-changers for me was fitting a baby seat on the back of my bike – not only could I get to our favourite park in five minutes, but we both loved cycling along the river and getting a blast of fresh air as often as possible. Caz Nicklin, bike blogger

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@babylondonmagazine

Liberty-Print Superga Pumps £55 | myfashiontribu.com babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 13

OVAN, BO OK

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Where were you born? Port Hedland in Western Australia.

Favourite childhood toy? My younger brother’s tricycle. I could turn the steering wheel around and pretend it was a BMX. First book memory? My mum reading a book about a mountain and a buffalo.

Favourite thing to do on a sunny day?

Eating and drinking outside with friends.

Read more about Oliver on p.42

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OR W

SE

Where were you born? In Barnsley, Yorkshire.

Favourite childhood toy? Snoopy! I still have my Snoopy soft toy in his blue tracksuit – I also loved my Sindy doll and her caravan!

Best thing about working with babies? Babies are amazing to work with, but the thing I find most rewarding is working with the new mums and dads and seeing them grow in confidence or supporting them through the rough bits.

See Vicki’s top swaddling tips on p.101

S, AUTHOR FER F E J

Where were you born? St Thomas’ Hospital overlooking the magnificent River Thames.

First book memory? Huddled under a patchwork quilt with my grandmother, Betty, reading Corduroy by Don Freeman.

First toy? A now very retro bumble bee rattle!

The best thing about being a mum? My new superhuman ability to incapacitate small people though the power of tickle wrestling.

For Emma’s best baby books see p.40

Our cover star Darcey

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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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@RobmDyson Enjoyed @GregJRutherford’s column in @Baby_London, not enough male voices out there @misshpoppins I really enjoyed reading @Baby_London today! A fab article about maternity nurses and included some super-cute children’s clothes @bigloveforshoes Gorgeous little amaiakids babygro in @Baby_London #shakeitbaby @fusecomms

Out and about at Amaia on Chelsea Green

Join in

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

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

14 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Baby Florence is not sure what to make of this lemon! Share your funny lemon-sucking pics with us #littlelemons

UK

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CONTRIBUTORS

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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

baby

NEWS

NEWS

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

PAT THE BUNNY

PHOTOGRAPHY: JAMES MCCAULEY

We can’t get enough of the latest collaboration between the classic children’s book Pat the Bunny and Romy and The Bunnies founder Julia Restoin Roitfeld, for the tale’s 75th anniversary. The baby fashion greats have come together to put their fluffy-tailed twist on products for your little one, including the legendary Charlotte Olympia, who has designed a line of super-cute bunny slippers for mother, daughter and baby; Bonpoint has created a chic little twin-set; and aden + anais has a new collection of swaddles featuring the Pat the Bunny print. The limited edition 14-piece collection is available exclusively at Harrods. harrods.com

NEW SHARED PARENTAL LEAVE (SPL) LAWS HAVE NOW COME INTO EFFECT, MEANING THAT PARENTS CAN SHARE LEAVE FOLLOWING THE BIRTH OR ADOPTION OF THEIR CHILD. THE NEW RULES, ENFORCED ON 5 APRIL, ALSO ALLOW PARENTS TO TAKE TIME OFF SIMULTANEOUSLY IN ORDER TO LOOK AFTER A NEWBORN. AFTER THE MOTHER HAS TAKEN TWO WEEKS OFF WORK PARENTS WILL BE ABLE TO SHARE UP TO 50 WEEKS OF LEAVE AND 37 WEEKS OF PAY. ALTHOUGH PARENTS CHOOSE HOW TO ARRANGE THEIR LEAVE, IT MUST BE AGREED BETWEEN THE EMPLOYEE AND EMPLOYER WITH EIGHT WEEKS’ NOTICE. GOV.UK

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 17

NEWS

A LITTLE BIRDY TOLD ME… We’re in love, but not sure if it’s the gorgeous Jools Oliver or her equally delightful new range Little Bird Baby that wins our hearts more. The collection features an eclectic mix of timeless pieces inspired by Jools’ childhood memories that are perfect for summer. We’re talking fresh, bright colours with retro graphics and prints – rainbows, stars, toadstools and cherries galore! mothercare.com

BOOKS

VINTAGE KNITS FOR BABIES

by Rita Taylor Fancy dressing your little one in something a little more individual?

This charming step-bystep guide will have you knocking up exquisite handmade garments knitted with love in no time, and each piece will be beautifully unique. £20 | Jacqui Small

LITTLE STEPS

Introducing the new summer range from Attipas. Light as a sock but more supportive than a pre-walker, these functional infant shoes ergonomically support first steps and thereafter, ensuring your little one is rocking the twinkliest of toes. attipaskids.com

HANDMADE FOR BABY

NEW STYLING AND DELIVERY SERVICE The west-London fashion boutique Natasha Coote is now offering an online styling and home-delivery service. Simply fill in a questionnaire and chat with one of the stylists via phone, Skype or email. The stylist will curate a selection of items for you to try on in store or at home. The £10 styling fee is refundable against any items purchased, and anything you don’t need will be collected from your home. natashacoote.com/how-it-works

by Charlotte Rivers and Emily Gregory Bursting with simple home décor ideas for the nursery and styling ideas for parties, this handy guide includes a range of crafts such as paper cutting and crochet. £12.99 | Apple Press

WE ALL KNOW IT TOO WELL, HAVING CHILDREN IS AN EXPENSIVE BUSINESS… THANKFULLY THERE’S A BRAND OUT THERE THAT’S ON OUR SIDE. MY LITTLE VIP IS A NEW MEMBERSHIP SERVICE THAT PROVIDES ACCESS TO EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND SAVINGS ON HUNDREDS OF LEADING FAMILY BRANDS, INCLUDING THE LIKES OF MENTHE ET GRENADINE AND THE BABY STORE. AND MY LITTLE VIP MAKE THE GOODWILL REACH EVEN FURTHER BY DONATING 20% OF THEIR PROFITS TO PREGNANCY AND STILLBIRTH AWARENESS CHARITY, COUNT THE KICKS. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP £49.99 | MYLITTLEVIP.CO.UK

18 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Beautiful Beautiful Beautiful Beautiful Blankets Blankets Beautiful Blankets Blankets Blankets

www.clair-de-lune.co.uk www.clair-de-lune.co.uk www.clair-de-lune.co.uk www.clair-de-lune.co.uk www.facebook.com/clairdeluneuk www.facebook.com/clairdeluneuk www.facebook.com/clairdeluneuk www.facebook.com/clairdeluneuk @clairdelune3 @clairdelune3 @clairdelune3 @clairdelune3 www.clair-de-lune.co.uk T: 0161491 4919800 9800 T: 0161 0161 491 9800 T: 0161 491 T: 9800 www.facebook.com/clairdeluneuk @clairdelune3 T: 0161 491 9800

NEWS

PERFECTLY WRAPPED The brainchild of three doting uncles and aimed at simplifying the early stages of parenthood, MORI delivers beautiful and lovingly presented baby essentials to your door every six weeks – just as baby enters a new development period. Each little parcel contains five must-have items, such as bodysuits and milk bibs, in neutral colours, made from high-quality materials.

Plus it all fits perfectly through your letterbox!

From £42 every six weeks, £55 as a one-off gift | babymori.com

20% OFF

EXCLUSIVE OFFER With a spring collection set to melt big and mini hearts alike, what better way to celebrate the new season than with a fantastic 20% discount at Rachel Riley.

Use online – quote BabyLondon20 – or simply bring your magazine in store. rachelriley.co.uk

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*Not valid in conjunction with any other offer, or on sale items, the Heritage Collection, footwear, dolls or teddies.

Stores: 14 Pont Street, SW1X 9EN and 82 Marylebone High Street, W1U 4QW

GUILT-FREE FAST FOOD

STROLLING IN STYLE

Trot around London with the most cultured stroller known to the baby world this summer. The new Bugaboo Bee3 features Vincent van Gogh’s Almond Blossom printed across its sun canopy, making it super bright and colourful, and the perfect companion for summer. £659 | bugaboo.com

BUBELE APP You’ll never have a dull moment again with Bubele.

The app makes finding kidfriendly activities and places a total breeze, plus you can connect with other parents in your local area. Aimed at parents with children from newborn to five years, it’s free for iPhone and iPad users.

Free | bubeleapp.com

Cooked by hand, frozen to lock in all that goodness and whizzed to your door on a scooter, Fed by Ned is London’s latest organic, seasonal and healthy children’s food delivery service. The wide range of delicious dishes will please even the most discerning of little palettes. fedbyned.com

LITTLE ANIMALS Cuddledry have embraced their wild side in support of World Wildlife Fund. The latest Snow Leopard print bamboo cotton baby and toddler towels are as perfect as ever for curling up in. Plus money from each sale goes to help conserve this beautiful animal. £34.99 | cuddledry.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 21

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Publisher Annabella Ward with speakers Annabel Karmel and Jenny Scott

Delicious cocktails from Eclipse

BAG IT

Super charitable shoe brand, TOMS has recently expanded its One for One model to include a collection of bags where, for every bag sold, TOMS will provide a safe birth kit for a mother and baby in Southeast Asia and Africa. The bags would be a pretty cool companion for all your hospital visits, too. toms.co.uk

22 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

We were joined by 100 inspirational women at Blue Almonds boutique on Walton Street, for a fabulous evening of networking, motivating speeches, and delicious cocktails and canapés sponsored by Eclipse and Top Hat Catering.

Annabel Karmel captivated the room with her inspirational story of building up a multimillion pound business empire and her brilliant networking tips. And we were delighted to announce the launch of the Little London Awards which will celebrate excellence across the baby and children’s industry. Watch this space for more details!

Seriously good canapés from Top Hat Catering

COOL RIDE Happy Hopperz takes bouncing to a whole new level as it unveils the all-new Vehicles range. The motorbike-shaped inflatables come in various themes including a Police Bike and Flower Power. With bike handles to hold, a comfy seat to board and four sturdy wheels to steady the bounce, tots will be racing around in no time! happyhopperz.co.uk

CONNECT EVENT

Kate Finney, edito r of Baby London and Little London

Stokke® Scoot™

Soft Dots

stokke.com

Retro Dots

Stokke® Scoot™ design: Hans-Cato Slotterøy, Alf Vegard Fjelland, Hilde Angelfoss, Oskar Johansen, Eivind Halseth.

Stroll in style!

BABY STYLE

LOVES

Passion for Pattern Italian fashion house Missoni sure know how to deliver a cute, colourful creation. This zesty zigzag babygrow – sporting their iconic print – is made from the softest cotton jersey. Presented in a stylish gift box, the three piece set comes with matching babygrow, hat and bib.

Priced £325 | childrensalon.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 25

0 1 8 families prefer out of

e s e h t e lik

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At Britax we always aim to lead the way in keeping children safe on the move. We launched our first car seat 35 years before it became a legal requirement to use one. We worked with Volkswagen to invent the ground-breaking ISOFIX back in 1997 and it still sets the standard today.

So it’s hardly surprising that approximately 80%* of car manufacturers choose Britax for their safety testing.

Because we believe freedom starts with being safe.

Find your freedom at britax.com

*79% of all cars used at least one Britax car seat for their 2013 Euro NCAP safety testing.

be free

SHOPPING

Color Block Bubble $62, isabelgarreton.com

Milleraies Striped T-Shirt £17, petit-bateau.co.uk

Pink Marble Jacket ¤60, softgallery.dk/en

Ariel Changing Bag £59, storksak.com

Crisp Twill Dungarees £37, petit-bateau.co.uk

Little Bird Flannel Shorts £6, mothercare.com

Harry Striped Overalls £34.99, chateaudesable.co.uk

Lace Cardigan £54, elfielondon.com

CODE

Landiciissum quiducid moluptae.

Et dit es invendus, £xx | xxxxxxxxxxx

red

Add a dash of this vibrant shade for a super bold statement Paisley Liberty Print Vest £32, brora.co.uk

Smart Snacks Nesting Gummies £19.14, learningresources.co.uk

Shark Red Sandals £40, saltwatersandals.com

Ígló&Indí Bib £13, oscarandolivia.co.uk iCandy Raspberry £420, icandyworld.com Vevian Patent Shoes £119, laceandribbons.co.uk Zig Zag Throw £295, uk.jonathanadler.com

Armani Junior £74, yoox.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 27

SHOPPING

Noe and Zoe Romper £34, selfridges.com

Tocoto Vintage Boots £34, laceandribbons.co.uk

Cannes Box Dress £44.99, chateaudesable.co.uk Margherita Kids T-Shirt £22, yoox.com

Baby Boy Shorts £16, petit-bateau.co.uk Summer Romper £18, lucyandsam.com

Tallulah Skirt £37, elfielondon.com

Colors of California £26, yoox.com

Cannes Sun Hat £16.99, chateaudusable.co.uk

GO

green

Brother Max Plug £9.99, brothermax.com

Elysee Cardigan £29.99, chateaudesable.co.uk

No summer get-up would be complete without a hint of minty fresh green Alexander Stiped Pouf £317, gigibrooks.com

Parakeet Main Plate £24, alicepeto.com

Franck & Fischer Rattle £10, shak-shuka.com Dragon Pull Toy £10, shak-shuka.com

Made for Me Personalised Trunki £40, trunki.com

Tripp Trapp Chair £159, stokke.com

28 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Miffy at the Playground £4.99, simonandschuster.co.uk

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

Cilla Dress

beautiful clothes for gorgeous girls 0-13y

For those girly weekends

Because you can

When you are committed to breastfeeding Medela are here to support you.

Medela’s unique 2-phase breastpumps enable you to express more milk in less time than other pumps so you can enjoy some special moments with family and friends. Calma the innovative feeding solution supports baby to switch from breast to bottle and back. Details on Medela’s full range can be found at www.medela.co.uk

What have you done whilst breastfeeding?

SHOPPING

Surf 2 £700, silvercrossbaby.com

Baby Bottle £12.99, ahipkid.com

Undersea Explorer £6, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Duck Push Toy £49, bluealmonds.co.uk

HELLO

yellow

Baby will be all smiles frolicking in this happy shade

Yellow Teepee Basket £59, olliella.com

Kite Dungarees £31, yoox.com

Ralph Lauren Floral Dress £85, harrods.com

Yellow Ruffle Baby Bubble $62, isabelgarreton.com

Pudding Trousers £42, stellamccartney.com

L'asticot Seahorse Romper £28, oscarandolivia.co.uk Adeline Yellow Dress £77, bonpoint.com

Baby Socks £19, bonpoint.com Blune Kids Ice Cream Knit £39.83, smallable.com Duck Booties £15, cathkidston.com

Alouette Bloomers £22.99, chateaudesable.co.uk

Opal Flamingo Dress ¤42, igloandindi.com/en

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 31

SHOPPING

Falcotto by Naturino £36, yoox.com

Frog Print Mary Jane £29, childrensalon.com

Little Bird Multi-Stripe and Floral Shirt £6, mothercare.com Polka Dot Blouse £21, petit-bateau.co.uk Honoré Slipper Shoes £150, mychatelles.com

Monchou All-in-One £58, amaiakids.co.uk

Sarouel Trousers ¤19, tortuedemer.com

COOL blue

Adelaide Dress £91, bonpoint.com

It’s time to splash some sky blue into the mix

Tocoto Vintage Denim Dress £35, laceandribbons.co.uk

TIPSY Organic Cotton Hat £13.45, bonniebaby.co.uk

Fresco High Chair £ 308.32, bloombaby.co.uk

Caravan Crib £965, nubie.co.uk

Alphabet Alligators £17.94, learningresources.co.uk

Safari Wicker Tray £20, emandlu.co.uk

Franck & Fischer Rattle £10, shak-shuka.com Skip Hop Moby Bath Rinser £8.50, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

32 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Little Circus Elephant £29.90, steiff.com

34 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

INTERVIEW

JNL ‘Set in Stone’ necklaces.

Below, Agnes top from Olivier Baby

Farleigh’s nursery.

Left, Jessica and baby Farleigh

MY ESSENTIALS JESSICA NAYLOR-LEYLAND

First-time mother to Farleigh, the luxury jewellery designer and founder of JNL shares her ultimate motherhood must-haves How are you finding life as a mother to baby Farleigh?

Honestly, a truly fun and unbelievably tiring rollercoaster.

I am so fortunate to have such a happy-go-lucky baby. I love hanging out with her every day but I am totally exhausted come bedtime! I have also made such unexpected friendships with other mothers which has helped me feel part of a network.

What were your favourite pregnancy treats?

My biggest treat throughout my pregnancy has to be the monthly massages I had at Zen, on Notting Hill Gate. They have those special pregnancy beds

where you can lie on your front with your bump poking through.

I also swore by the Bloom and Blossom Anti Stretch Mark Cream.

Where do you like to shop for your daughter?

Online shopping has now become a serious addiction, especially during the first few months! I always rely on Olivier Baby, Amaia and Baby Gap, too.

Any unexpected finds you can recommend?

My favourite skincare range for Farleigh has to be the Burt’s Bees body moisturisers, they all smell so good! But my biggest surprise is how great Marks Best skincare find: Burt’s Bees moisturiser

and Spencer’s baby cashmere range is. Farleigh is obsessed by her Hevea panda bear teether too and her Oskar & Catie woodland animal mobile.

What do you use as a changing bag and what do you keep in it?

My nappy bag is enormous! I use a very supple and pretty basket I bought from Katrina Phillips on Portobello Road and stuff it with absolutely everything Farleigh will most likely never need on our days out. I always take two muslins from Piccalilly, aden + anais or MoochicBaby.

How did you go about decorating your nursery?

I had the biggest case of nesting

syndrome. I have decorated it with lots of meaningful treasures that I have collected from our travels. The rug I bought in Guatemala was a very generous touch as it was moved from our room into the nursery! To be honest it is still a work in progress so my husband is constantly being asked to hammer this and that to the wall. I underestimated how many children’s books I would be buying each month! The nursery is dotted with baskets from the Basket Room Company and

Jessica Naylor-Leyland

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 35

INTERVIEW

Toy storage basket from Susie Watson

JNL necklace ready for its new owner

Jessica sketching new designs

Susie Watson, which are perfect for storing away all the toys.

How did you decide on the name Farleigh?

Farleigh was always our name from the moment we found out we were having a girl. It is an old English word meaning a working meadow, nothing more romantic than that I am afraid but I couldn’t imagine her being called anything else, it just felt right from the moment we found it.

As a jewellery designer did you mark Farleigh’s arrival with a piece of jewellery?

Yes, I designed my newest piece especially to celebrate her arrival.

It is part of my original ‘Set in

Stone’ necklace collection where you can spell a name or a message using the first letter of each gemstone. The idea being that a mother would pass it down to her daughter.

How do you juggle running your own business with a new baby?

I think it is important for me to realise that having Farleigh has actually given me a greater ability to juggle, so I have changed my lifestyle to fit in around being her full-time mum and On holiday in Morocco

also keeping JNL running. I am also lucky to have a very supportive husband.

Where do you live in London and where do you and Farleigh like to go?

We live in Queen’s Park and I absolutely adore it. Farleigh comes everywhere with me, she is quite a little distraction when I visit my craftsmen for work which I love doing, but I

Jessica’s own-design necklace spelling ‘Farleigh’ in gemstones

obviously only take her to the behind the scenes part of my business.

Where do you like to go to escape the city?

We love getting out of London for most weekends for some country air. We just got back from our first beautiful family holiday in Morocco which was such an adventure. I couldn’t recommend Morocco more when travelling with babies, the people were utterly charming towards Farleigh and we are all excited about going back again soon.

What’s in store for JNL as a business this year?

JNL has lots of exciting new designs coming out soon! I would also love to keep designing pieces for people to buy in celebration of their milestones in life, one being to celebrate a birth which is obviously very close to my heart.

urite teether Baby Farleigh with her favo 36 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

jessicanaylorleyland.com

White

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Colourful Reads

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COLOURS

By Patrick George A vivid and quirky, awardwinning, colour mixing adventure. Just flip the acetate to reveal a new colour and a new picture!

Will keep little ones entertained for hours. £8.99, Patrick George

40 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

BOOKS

Baby’s first cloth book comes in a colourful presentation box

SNEAK-A-PEEK: COLOURS

By Roger Priddy

Children are encouraged to peek through peep-holes to discover familiar words and colours from the world around them. £5.99, Priddy Books

FIRST 100: NUMBERS, COLOURS, SHAPES

By Roger Priddy

A padded book about numbers, colours and shapes. Packed with over 100 first words to learn and bright, bold pictures to look at. £3.99, Priddy Books

COLOURS

By Aino-Maija Metsola Stylish and innovative, this introduction to colours explores

everything from bright yellow lions to pink ice creams and purple aubergines. £8.99, Wide Eyed Editions

MY LITTLE WORLD: ZOOM

By Jonathan Litton, Fhiona Galloway

Who will win the colourful race?

Featuring concentric holes for toddlers to turn the pages to their favourite vehicle. With an exciting, rhyming text to make learning fun. £5.99, Little Tiger Kids

WE LOVE EACH OTHER

By Yusuke Yonezu

From birds to elephants, rabbits to turtles, each one illustrated in primary colours. There is love and

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co-ordination and memory skills. £5.99, Little Tiger Kids

VERY FIRST CLOTH BOOK – BLUE

WILD ABOUT SHAPES

By Fiona Watt, Stella Baggott Even the tiniest baby will enjoy this delightful wordless cloth book. With crackly soft pages, little hands will love exploring textures and sounds. A beautiful gift for a new family. £9.99, Usborne

MY FIRST LIFT AND LEARN: COLOURS

By Little Tiger Press

Packed with fun photographs of familiar objects, each page features a flap to lift. Helps build language skills, hand-eye

By Jeremie Fischer

Acetate pages merge colours and shapes making previously invisible animals appear before your very eyes – a magical must have. £12.99, Flying Eye Books

WINNIE-THE-POOH: LIFT THE FLAP COLOURS

By A A Milne

A charming exploration of first colours with familiar friends.

Winnie the Pooh and Piglet introduce young readers to colours with soft pastel shades and clever flaps to lift. £5.99, Egmont

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 41

BOOKS

MEET THE AUTHOR OLIVER JEFFERS

42 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Emma O’Donovan catches up with world famous author and illustrator of How to Catch a Star, Oliver Jeffers What did you most enjoy drawing as a child?

Large waves, whales, boats, things sinking, things being destroyed, giants stomping on houses. I bumped into an old primary school teacher at a signing a few years back. She had kept my story book jotter as an example to other pupils for about 20 years, but 10 years ago she lost it when they moved school – a real shame as I would have loved to have seen it.

Whose sketchbook would you most like to peek inside?

Quite possibly Tim Burton, Wes Anderson, Julian Opie, Gerhard Richter or Jean-Jacques Sempé.

Which of your books are you most proud of?

I’m proud of them all but the one which has particular meaning is The Incredible Book Eating Boy as that was the book which my publishers didn’t want to publish.

In the end we came up with a deal where I would get to publish it and they could get the book they wanted afterwards.

Oliver has been sketching and doodling since school

In The Incredible Book Eating Boy, Henry satisfies his love of books by eating them, becoming smarter the more he eats. If you had to eat a book which one would you choose and why?

The dictionary, it’s got all the words!

Which children’s book would you most like to illustrate?

A Roald Dahl story, but the Quentin Blake illustrations are just so integral to Roald Dahl, I don’t know if I’d see myself fit to re-visualise that.

Your book Stuck tries to solve a problem by throwing things at it. Which three items would you want thrown at you if you were stuck up a tree?

Something to eat, read and to watch football highlights on. bl

PHOTOGRAPHY: MALCOLMBROWN.NET ILLUSTRATION: OLIVER JEFFERS

One of your first picture books, Lost and Found tells the magical tale of a friendship between a small boy and a penguin. Was there a particular event which inspired this story?

It’s actually based on a true story!

There’s a zoo in Belfast with a huge penguin enclosure. On a school trip, a boy got into the enclosure unnoticed and rounded up a baby penguin, then got back on the school bus. It wasn’t until he got home that his parents realised he had a penguin! They had to keep it overnight in the bath tub until they could take it back to the zoo the next day. I always thought about what this relationship was like, what did they talk about? Did they watch TV together?

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

Kimono Maxi Dress, £385, Pazuki for Blossom Mother & Child.

Engraved Heritage Coin Necklace, £85, épanoui.

Citrine Ring, £25, Pebble London.

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BEAUTIFUL BUMP

PHOTOGR APHY: KEN COPSEY ST YLING: COURTNEY ROBINSON HAIR AND MAKEUP: L AUR ENCE CLOSE MODEL: VICKY LENTON

White Silk Shirt, £165, Keungzai.

Carrie Leather Maternity Pencil Skirt, £349, Isabella Oliver.

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Axel Black Grosgrain Heels, £450, Rayne Shoes.

Darcy Pink Chain Dress, £275, Madderson London.

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Portman Maternity Tunic Dress, £79, Isabella Oliver.

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Cocktail Ring, £25, Pebble London.

Axel Black Grosgrain Shoes, £450, Rayne Shoes.

Joined Bangle Set, £60, Pebble London.

Floral Swing Maternity Dress, £129, Attesa at Blossom Mother & Child.

London Hampstead Coat in Blush Pink, £275, The Fold London.

Vienna Ring, £95, Elizabeth Jean.

Shoes, stylist’s own.

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Vienna Ring, £95, Elizabeth Jean.

Rose Gold Spheres Necklace, £55, épanoui.

Ian Dress, £200, Rebecca Minkoff available at shopbop.com.

Wood Bangle, £40, Pebble London.

Jacquard Gown, £1,200, Emilia Wickstead at Nine in the Mirror.

Trinket Necklace, £240, Pebble London.

Harley Suede Court Shoes, £195, L.K.Bennett at Fenwick.

SPECIAL THANKS TO PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: GEORGIA SHANE LOCATION: HACKNEY HOUSE, CAROL HAYES MANAGEMENT HAIR: SCHWARZKOPF MAKEUP: CLINIQUE

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Shoes, stylist’s own.

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BAG IT UP

1. Coral Eyelet Belt Maternity Dress £59, seraphine.com 2. Faux Pearl French Chain Bracelet £38, butlerandwilson.co.uk 3. Maternity Tencel Dress £40, topshop.com 4. Gathered Detail Dress £115, cosstores.com 5. Chain Necklace £25, oliviadivine.co.uk 6. Jaeger Opaque Panel Dress £175, johnlewis.com 7. Emme Cutwork Cuff £49, reiss.com 8. Shibori Spot Shirt Dress £110, whistles.com 9. Hands Festival Ornate Stone Ring £32, asos.com 10. Metalic Maternity Dress £42, asos.com 11. Super Cerys Necklace £35, coast-stores.com 12. Isabella Oliver Cranleigh Maternity Dress £109, johnlewis.com 13. Ivy Chelsea Boot £605, rayneshoes.co.uk

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Time to get bootylicious in gold

Stokke Changing Bag £99 | stokke.com

Oilily Floral Changing Bag £132 | childrensalon.com

Ellis Shoulder Bag £49.95 | mamasandpapas.com

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Icelandic

CHILDRENSWEAR

0-10 years

PLAYFUL & PRACTICAL DESIGNED TO PROVIDE MAXIMUM COMFORT WITHOUT COMPROMISING ON STYLE AND CREATIVITY.

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PROFILE

Margherita’s children’s collection embraces bright colours and vibrant patterns

MAMA MISSONI Margherita Missoni CHATS TO Caroline Leeper ABOUT KEEPING CHILDHOOD AT THE CORE OF HER NEW KID’S CLOTHING R ANGE t comes as no surprise that Margherita Maccapani Missoni Amos should be a designer; she is the granddaughter of Ottavio and Rosita Missoni, founders of one of the most loved Italian fashion brands in the world. In the 1950s their colourful, zigzag croquet designs took the fashion world by storm and quickly became an international sensation. Today, however, the Fashion Week catwalks should prepare for a Missoni sensation of a different kind, because this time round it’s the littlest members the family that get all the fun and attention – and the designs are utterly gorgeous.

I

Designed for ages six months to 10 years and launched exclusively on designer website Yoox.com in eary spring, Margherita Kids has been an instant hit. Its success is derived in part from the fact that Margherita is a mother herself – a driving force behind the brand’s conception.

When her son Otto (now 18 months) was first born, she felt that most of the clothes available were designed by people who didn’t have children of their own – they were too restrictive, often impractical and were definitely not designed to be washed over and over again. So with Otto by her side – “he has been a great source of

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 57

PROFILE Margherita Kids offers lively childrenswear, designed to be mixed and matched

inspiration as well as the best learning experience I could have wished for” – Margherita decided to create a collection that children could actually wear.

Growing up surrounded by high-end designer fashion has ensured her children’s collection projects an inevitable level of style and desirability, but the cuts, shapes and materials speak of someone who is reassuringly down-to-earth. “I wanted to create a brand that kept children at centre stage, not mini-adult clothing,” Margherita says. “Children’s freedom of movement and comfort are the priorities.”

It is these goals that make her brand so desirable. Playful, imaginative designs with a hint of practicality define the collection – the kind of clothing parents want to dress their children in. And although Margherita firmly upholds the idea that her collection is “set apart from the Missoni heritage”, there’s no denying the key themes of colour and pattern that have distinguished her grandparent’s brand also play a significant role in Margherita’s own creations.

The most immediate impression one gets from her collection is that it’s all about vibrancy and variation. Traditional colours for babies – pink for girls, blue for boys – “bore me” she says. “Because of the things I’ve seen while growing up, I’ve always been super comfortable around colours.” Which is so refreshing to hear and see in practice – Margherita Kids offers something that is far more lively and eclectic than your

58 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

I WANT TO ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO CHOOSE THEIR CLOTHES AND DEVELOP THEIR OWN TASTE standard childrenswear. Take for example the little pastel-blue summer dress with its bright strawberry-pink trim or the smart pair of navy swimming trunks that are brought to life with a summery lime-green daisy print.

Equally, in the manner of her grandparent’s brand, a love of pattern is evident throughout Margherita’s label, giving each piece in the collection a real sense of character and fun. The aforementioned daisy print is the signature pattern as well as the brand’s logo (Margherita means ‘daisy’ in Italian) with a number of little outfits for boys and girls featuring the floral motif. However, it’s the blue fish-print apron dress that the designer picks as her favourite – and who could blame her, combined with the matching bright pink and orange fish-print bloomers the outfit is adorable and every mini stylist strutting her stuff down London’s streets should own a set!

Possibly the best bit about the collection is the concept that there is no perfect look or match, everything is meant to go with everything. “I want to encourage children to choose their own clothes and develop their own taste,” Margherita comments. Otto may not be at that stage yet, but “I'll give him total freedom” when he’s old enough.

With another little boy due any day now, Margherita has plenty on her plate, though she doesn’t appear to be slowing, with big plans for the brand’s future. She hasn’t written off a maternity line and aims to expand the children’s collection to include accessories and bigger sizes for winter. But for now, her pregnancy is taking priority.

She admits that second time round things have been easier, “life has just been going on” and she can’t deny that she’s currently only got one thing on her mind: that moment when her baby boy’s “deep black eyes stare into mine as soon as they put him on my breast 30 seconds after his birth”.

Margherita al ready had bu ckets of style at ju st six years old

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®).

Science and nature - hand in hand

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 b babies 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.

THIS PAGE Noah wears Casper Organic Cotton T-Shirt, £19.45, Bonnie Baby.

Kappa Baby Trouser, £69, Caramel Baby & Child.

Marcy wears Pretty Collar Body, from £14 to £16, Boden.

Corisca Baby Cardigan, £69, Caramel Baby & Child.

Lemon Printed Culottes, £10 to £11, Next.

RIGHT PAGE Pineapple wears Happy Veggies Fruity Sunglasses, £4, Paperchase.

CLUB

TROPICANA PHOTOGR APHER : HELEN MARSDEN ST YLING: KELLIE DAGGET T

THIS PAGE Orlando wears Let’s Go Bananas Top, £8, River Island.

Babette Wash Skinny Jean, £50, Polo Ralph Lauren.

RIGHT PAGE Joanie-Jo wears Novelty Strawberry Romper, £10, Mothercare.

THIS PAGE Darcey wears Sarah Baby Cardigan, £69, Caramel Baby & Child.

Lemon Print Bloomers, from £21, Petit Bateau.

Baby Mary Janes, £32, La Coqueta Kids.

Orlando wears Watermelon Babygrow, £19.58, Bobo Choses at Smallable.

Soft Towelling Bloomer, £12 to £14, Boden.

RIGHT PAGE Darcey wears ‘Yellow Citrus’ Babygrow and Hat Gift Set, £130, Roberto Cavalli at Childrensalon.

THIS PAGE Marcy wears Pineapple Top, £10, River Island.

Blake Shorts, £50, Stella McCartney.

RIGHT PAGE Joanie-Jo wears Rufus Apple Print Babygrow, £45, Stella McCartney.

Noah wears Buster Apple Print T-Shirt, £24, Stella McCartney.

LEFT PAGE Noah wears White Pineapple T-Shirt, £35, Paul Smith Junior at Childrensalon.

Reversible Knee Patch Skinnies, £14 to £16, Boden.

THIS PAGE Orlando wears Watermelon Babygrow, £19.58, Bobo Choses at Smallable.

Soft Towelling Bloomer, £12 to £14, Boden.

SPECIAL THANKS TO STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: FLORENCE STAFFORD and MODEL AGENCIES: BONNIE & BETTY AND BRUCE AND BROWN. MODELS: DARCEY, JOANIE-JO, MARCY, NOAH, ORLANDO.

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FRUITY FEET

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It’s time to dress your little lemon in the fruitiest fashion

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Cute citrus prints for a fresh spring look

Grow their love of

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*At around 4-6 months your baby will start to show that they are ready for solids. The Department of Health and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the fi rst 6 months. However, if you choose to wean earlier, our ingredients are suitable for 4 months.

We love sharing so join us online for lots of tips, advice and recipes. Sign up now at www.organix.com for emails packed with our latest news, offers and competitions.

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T&Cs to the parent: This coupon can be used as part payment towards any Organix baby cereals. Only one coupon can be used towards any product purchased. Coupon cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and is redeemable at all major stores subject to ranging and availability. Please do not attempt to use this coupon towards any other purchase as refusal may lead to delay or embarrassment at the checkout. Void if reproduced, altered or expired. Coupons cannot be sold, transferred or auctioned. Photocopies will not be accepted. Only accepted within the UK. To the retailer: Organix will reimburse you the full face value provided this coupon has been accepted against any Organix baby cereals. The promoter reserves the right to refuse redemption or defaced or damaged coupons or those that have not been correctly redeemed as instructed. Send the coupon to Valassis Ltd, PO Box 6199, Nuneaton, CV11 9HQ within 1 month post the expiry date. Valid until 30.09.15

Baby on Board C YCLECHIC FOU N DER Caz Nicklin SHAR E S H ER IN SIDER TIPS TO PEDDLING WITH YOU R BABY s soon as your baby can sit up straight (from around 10 months onwards), you can get them on the bike. My main means of transporting my daughter Florence around for the past five years has been the back of my bike – from nursery to ballet to swimming during her toddler years, and now, to school. I first got her on board the bike with me when she was 14 months old. I reckon that she would have been ready a few months before but the

A

HELMETS

weather was horrid so we waited until spring had sprung and by 14 months she was less likely to fall asleep!

Transporting your children by bike can be hugely practical not to mention heaps of fun for all involved. It can tick many boxes for a busy parent: getting them out in the fresh air, seeing their bonny little faces light up and hearing their squeals of delight as they discover the joys of travelling by bike or (with the rose-tinted glasses removed) getting them

from A to B without any bawling, dawdling or buggy battles on the bus. And, as an added bonus, cycling is good for you: ✽ Healthy body: cycling is a great way to get exercise into your daily routine. ✽ Healthy brain: the endorphins released by the exercise and the sheer fun of riding your bike can be a great boost to your mood. ✽ Healthy wallet: once you’ve invested in the bike and gear, the actual riding bit is completely free!

WeeRide Safefront Childseat £99.99 | cyclesurgery.com

New Looxs Lilly Shopper Pannier £36.99 | cyclechic.co.uk

Pashley Poppy bicycle £495 | pashley.co.uk

Sawako Furuno Ladies’ Helmet £68 | cyclechic.co.uk

Birds Lazer Infant Helmet £19.99 | cyclechic.co.uk Bundlebean Go Elephant £29.99 | bundlebean.com

Kiddimoto Dotty Helmet £24.99 kiddimoto.co.uk Bobike Maxi Rear Seat £79.99 | cyclechic.co.uk

72 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Pashley Wicker Basket £42 | pashley.co.uk

ADVENTURE

t r park s to cu d look out fo an es d ut ea ro ah Plan ter road well as quie through as Cargo bikes are great for school runs, especially if you have more than one child

KIT LIST: FRONT-MOUNTED CHILD SEATS These seats attach to the handlebar stem and the child sits in front of you with their legs under the handlebars. These seats are best for children under three as the position can be a bit of a squeeze when they get bigger. ✽ The child is in a secure position and in full view between your arms – good for parent and child, as you don’t have to twist round to check on them and they feel more secure. ✽ Great view for the child – being up front they can see what’s going on – and a great introduction to the joys of cycling. ✽ Easy to attach to most bikes.

REAR-MOUNTED CHILD SEATS This is the most common type of child seat and attaches to either the rear rack or has a mounting bracket that clamps onto your seat tube and the seat clicks into the bracket. ✽ Higher maximum weight and more space than a front seat, meaning your growing child can use it for longer. ✽ Easy to get hold of and reasonably priced. ✽ Adjustable feet holders to cater for your growing child.

CARGO BIKES Cargo bikes are commonplace in Holland and Denmark and are gradually growing in popularity in the UK. They are essentially a large Dutch-style bike with a cargo box attached at the front. ✽ For two to three kids and lots of shopping. ✽ Kids are upfront in a fun, sociable and secure position with a good view. ✽ Easy for everyday use as there’s nothing to attach, you simply get on and go.

Boxer Shuttle From £1,950 | boxercycles.com

HELMETS For you and your child a comfy, secure helmet is a must but there’s no need to sacrifice on style. Check out the selection on the opposite page for a burst of colour and fun.

Hamax Child Bike Seat Rain Poncho £29.99 | halfords.com

PANNIERS/BASKETS Invariably if you are taking your child from A to B you will need to be carting some stuff around with you too.

REFLECTIVE If cycling in the evenings, invest in reflectives to ensure you’re visible to other road users.

Crane Handpainted Bell in Red Spring £16 | cyclechic.co.uk

CAZ’S TOP TIPS FOR GETTING BACK ON YOUR BIKE ✽ Have a lesson

Adult cycling lessons have been increasing in popularity over the past 10 years and in some boroughs of London they are free or heavily subsidised. I would highly recommend a lesson for anyone who is new to or has had a break from urban cycling. ✽ Find routes off road Many of the routes I cycle with my daughter are either off-road or on quieter roads – it makes for a much more chilled out

experience. Have a look at the cycle lanes and networks in your area and of course routes through parks. ✽ Get off and push I am a firm believer in hopping off your bike and pushing on the pavement if the road feels too busy and chaotic, especially with a child on the bike. As long as you stop and dismount safely, there is no harm in pushing your bike.

The Girls’ Bicycle Handbook by Caz Nicklin (£14.99, Quercus)

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 73

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www.sockons.co.uk 74 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

InLOVE with

LIBERTY

WITH LIBERT Y PRINT CENTR E-STAGE THIS SE ASON , Kate Finney E XPLOR E S TH E EVOLUTION OF TH E ICONIC FABRIC ounded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, the Regent Street store was modelled on an Eastern Bazaar, and featured homewares, carpets and fashion for a society that was clammering for anything Oriental and exotic. A Royal Warrant, shop girls dressed in kimonos and a host of connections with British designers ensured that the new store soon became a destination in itself. With a background in textiles, Arthur started to import undyed fabrics which he then had handprinted in England with Oriental designs. This was a stroke of genius which sealed Liberty’s reputation as a British brand, and kick-started what would become a huge collection of hundreds of ‘Liberty Prints’.

F

Producing miniature floral, Paisley, animal and abstract prints, on everything from cotton, silk, corduroy and even PVC, there truly is something for everyone.

Having always loved the prints, it wasn’t until I had a baby that I appreciated how versatile they could be. Not only do I own Nike trainers, an iPad cover and napkins in various Liberty prints, but also a changing bag,

baby bib, a baby towel with a Liberty-print trim, and more baby clothes than I should admit to. It just seems to suit babies perfectly.

And the fabric – especially the lightweight Tana Lawn cotton – is ideal for practical yet pretty childrenswear. The biggest plus point for me is that it allows you to introduce whimsical patterns and a varied palette of colours to your baby’s wardrobe.

With collaborations with a whole host of brands (like Marc by Marc Jacobs, H&M, Zara, Barbour, Fred Perry, Nike and Target), Libertyprint fabrics have reached international superstardom. And with the baby industry now embracing the prints, our nurseries and babies have never looked so good!

Liberty-print Moses Basket £120 | piccoliandco.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 75

Little Cord Dungarees £69, brora.co.uk

Personalised Towels £49, milliemanu.com

Ocana Baby Dress £52, lacoquetakids.com

Blossom Bashful Bunny Cushion £20, jellycat.com

Bandana Dribble Bib £9.99, dribblebuster.co.uk

Bunny Bookends £29, bombus.co.uk

Canford Bear £49, grinandbear.net Absorba Shortall £26, alexandalexa.com Eloise Sterling Silver Bracelet £29 | mercimamanboutique.com Weekend Bag £650, liberty.co.uk

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Floral Notebook £9, johnlewis.com

Sleeping Bag ¤75, lab-boutique.com

76 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Bambi Cushion £63, alexandalexa.com

TRENDS Grigri Bonnet Poppy £49, bonpoint.com

Charm Bracelet £30, mariechantal.co.uk

Cloud Mobile £22.50, little-cloud.co.uk Buggy Liner £40, bettybramble.co.uk

Tana Lawn Cotton Bloomers £16, liberty.co.uk Arthur Cap £22, olivierbaby.com

Theodora Mini Suitcase £65, liberty.co.uk

Billy Shorts £34, olivierbaby.com Reversible Print Sunhat £24, olivierbaby.com

Say it with Liberty... a truly romantic print perfect for summer Letter Set £40, bombus.co.uk Lilly Peter Pan Collar Dress £42, olivierbaby.com

LIBERTY LACE-UPS

Baby Chair Pad ¤49, lab-boutique.com

Calisson Little Royals Booties £35, mothercare.com Acacia Plimsolls £42, jacadi.com

Charley Mouse Boots £85, notonthehighstreet.com Lollipop Shirt and Bloomer Set £50, amaiakids.co.uk babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 77

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

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW ENJOY SPRINGTIM E WITH BABY IN TOW! Laura Mason PUTS BABY CAR RIER S TO TH E TE ST

Best for

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LATER Best for

DESIGN Best for

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Best for

BABIES

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This is a good choice for longevity with three very different carry positions that help manage the weight of your baby as it grows. Select from inwards facing, outwards facing and the bonus of a back carrier all in the same system. The ergonomic design and structure ensures comfort. £84.99 | babybjorn.co.uk

This unique carrier makes a great travel addition thanks to its super light weight of 0.88lbs. It also folds down to the size of a water bottle. While having some great portable features for travel it doesn’t compromise on comfort or ease of use. The newborn insert (included) is required for smaller babies. £39 | mothercare.com

A multi-use carrier that grows with your child, this can be used on the front and back (for older children). However it really excels as a front carrier ideal for newborns. The adjustable head and back support is strong while reassuring for parents, particularly those still getting used to a carrier as opposed to a pushchair. £149 | stokke.com

This brand new model is the latest offering from LittleLife, that specialises in back carriers. Ideal for heavier children, the weight is comfortably spread across the back thanks to the adjustable options. Thumbs up for the lightweight design, at 1.9kg you’re focusing on carrying your child rather than the carrier itself. £99.95 | johnlewis.com

For something less intimidating, this is more of a sling with a hammocktype formation. With up to five ways of wearing it, you can easily find your desired level of comfort, with two of these positions perfect for discreet breastfeeding.

Design and colour is key, with vibrant breathable fabrics and bold patterns. £44.99 | wemademe.com

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babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 79

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www.bettybramble.co.uk | hello@bettybramble.co.uk 80 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

REVIEWS

TOTGEAR

LOOKING FOR TH E U LTIMATE TR AVEL SYSTEM TO SUIT H ER GROWING FAMILY, Kate Finney TE STS TH E N EW U PPABABY VISTA UPPABABY VISTA 2015 I have a confession to make, I’m a fully signed-up member of the Uppababy fan club, and have loved my previous Vista, to the extent that I’m almost reluctant to switch my affections to the shiny new version. But I’m trying to keep an open mind!

Sporting several modifications, it’s essentially the same buggy as before – but with added benefits. What attracted me is its improved capability as a double (when converted with the newly-designed Rumble Seat). It means I can use it as a pram for a newborn, a buggy for my toddler, a double for my toddler’s nanny share days, and as a double for the new baby on the way and my toddler, with each different configuration requiring a minor changeover taking seconds.

IKate’s daughter has given Ithe new Uppababy Vista Iher seal of approval!

THE LOW-DOWN This really is a multi-tasking buggy, suitable for one, two or even three children (with the Piggy Back ride-along accessory). The bassinet, which has a useful handle for carrying, is perfect for naps or overnight sleeping (a nice option to have when travelling). The comfy toddler seat is both front and rear facing and tilts well. It stands alone once folded and has a huge storage basket which is a big plus.

GOOD LOOKING? The sleek new model looks almost identical, and I think it’s a great design. The bassinet has a lovely soft lining and the seat is simple and smart. With nine colourways there is something for everyone, although I love the ones with black frames.

COMFORT Both the seat units and the bassinet feature SPF 50+ extendable sunshades to keep the sun out of little eyes. The bassinet has a zip-on apron panel and feels even more luxurious than the older model. The seat unit reclines to horizontal making it perfect for napping, and the Rumble Seat also tilts which helps to give the second child a lot more room.

THE VERDICT PRACTICALITY AND DRIVEABILITY Very easy and intuitive to use, the manoeuvrability of the new model is much better, and it’s a pleasure to push in both buggy and pram modes. With two toddlers on board, it can be tricky to gain leverage for lifting the buggy up on the pavement, but the fact they can both face forwards is a great improvement. The rain cover and insect net are both easy to use and the car seat adaptors make it even more versatile.

The new Vista offers a more luxurious ride (and push) and the new Rumble Seat (£174.99) is perfect for those wanting to convert to a double. It’s sturdy, good-looking, dependable and a great all-rounder for both pavements and light off-road use. My daughter and her best friend love it so much that they actually try to climb in it, which is far easier than trying to strap in a screaming toddler! £699.99 | uppababy.co.uk

REVIEWS

DOUBLE TROUBLE

LE T YOU R PUSHCHAIR S GROW WITH YOU R FAMILY…

BABY JOGGER CITY SELECT

The Quick-Fold Technology is a real selling point for this pushchair, meaning it’s easy to fold but also very secure. The City Select drives quite effortlessly whether you’re out and about in the city or enjoying country strolls. Easily converted for extra riders with the second seat adapters, it’s a great set of wheels for twins or siblings. £524.95 | johnlewis.com

PHIL & TEDS VIBE

Our Kiwi friends certainly know how to cater for double trouble, with the Vibe converting easily from a single stroller to a twin using their double kit. When cruising in second-seat mode, the double kit offers baby two seat recline positions that can be easily adjusted. The featherlight kerb pop also means navigating kerbs has never been so easy. £549 | philandteds.com

BUGABOO DONKEY

This pushchair offers parents complete flexibility; use as the mono, duo or twin – all cool and contemporary. The convertible pushchair adapts to the growing family quite easily. In just three simple clicks it can convert from a duo pushchair to a mono pushchair; it’s perfect for twins, two children or solo riders. £849.05 | mamasandpapas.com

ICANDY APPLE 2 PEAR

Designed to upgrade the iCandy Pear 2 multi-mode system, the Apple 2 Pear makes a super stylish double pushchair. The colour choices for this sexy set of wheels are simply incredible, coming in 12 fabulous flavours. It’s a great option for a sophisticated single or makes a beautiful tandem pushchair. £470 | icandyworld.com

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84 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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INTERIORS

PAINT POT Give your home a double dose of colour

Moba Moses Basket £99 | mobauk.com

Goodnight Light Pineapple Lamp £68.85 | smallable.com

Organic Cotton Blanket £44.95 | bonniebaby.co.uk

Seven Pack of Rainbow Muslins £28.95 | fayeandlou.co.uk

The Bold Collection Scented Candles £35 each | wickandtallow.com

Butterfly China Dining Set £41 | gigibrooks.com

Geo Storage Basket £75 | olliella.com

Kalon Studios Caravan Dresser £1,232 | nubie.co.uk

Macaron Stools ¤105 | lilgaea.com

Charles and Ray Eames Elephant Chair £159 | miniobjectsofdesire.com

Ubbi Nappy Bins £69.99 | ubbiworld.co.uk

Crazy Colour Shelving £1,561 | gigibrooks.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 87

Bringing baby

HOME

Louisa Van den Bergh, FOU N DER OF LU LU BABY, SHAR E S TH E R E ALIT Y OF COMING HOM E WITH A N EWBOR N

88 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

NEW LIFE

o you have had your gorgeous baby, have received visits, flowers, cards and (hopefully) some support while in hospital, but now you are heading home with your precious new bundle in the back of the car. Yikes, what now?

S

IT’S ALL A BIT SURREAL Many mums report a feeling of surreal detachment as they arrive back home.

Everything seems the same and yet everything has changed beyond belief. Feeling tired and physically exhausted after the birth no doubt increases these feelings, alongside the inevitable hormonal contribution. You don’t have long to dwell on these emotions before a little somebody starts asking for you, beginning the cycle of feeding, winding, napping (both of you) and trying to get stuff done in between.

That feeling of surreal detachment can last a while as you adjust to your new life and how completely different it is from those days when you only had yourself and your partner to worry about. Gone are the lie-ins, leisurely breakfasts, being able to do exactly what you want, when you want.

Instead you may find you are in your pyjamas till midday, you cannot fathom why your baby needs to eat every 45 minutes and the only things you have managed to eat all day is a muffin and a packet of crisps. You used to be so organised, and now you can barely manage to put a wash on. This is all completely normal and you will soon get used to your new life.

It will get easier as your baby grows, you gain confidence and get the hang of feeding and looking after your little one.

few days for them to settle down completely.

If you are breastfeeding, you will have already witnessed how regularly your little bub enjoys sucking on them. Hopefully it has not been too painful for you, but if you are in pain, now is the time to seek some help rather than curl those toes and soldier on.

When your milk comes in, usually on day three or four, you may find that your breasts resemble a pornstar’s – huge and very full.

I remember seeing my tiny boy feeding on this balloon breast. When your breasts are really big and sore and lumpy, known as engorgement, it can be very uncomfortable and can often make it tricky to latch your baby on. This is a time to work hard on that latch

so that they feed well, have a full tummy and then have a good long nap. If your baby is jaundiced (which is very common) then they will be particularly dozy and it is especially important to make sure they feed well because feeding will help shift the jaundice.

Most babies hate having their nappy changed. I remember one Lulubaby mum emailing me soon after her baby had been born, worried that something was wrong with her son as he cried and cried when his nappy was being changed or he was being dressed.

This is entirely normal. Your baby will not enjoy being stripped off, left exposed, having his bottom wiped and being manoeuvred into clothes for a few weeks yet.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

IT WILL GET EASIER AS YOUR BABY GROWS, YOU GAIN CONFIDENCE AND GET THE HANG OF LOOKING AFTER YOUR LITTLE ONE

BIG CHANGES No article about bringing a new baby home would be complete without some mention of your, now enormous, breasts. Feeding dominates those early days and weeks. Even if you are not planning on breastfeeding, you will still find that your breasts rear their head as they adapt to post pregnancy life and their new role. If you are bottle feeding, you are likely to still feel some changes (unless you have taken some medication) as your breasts will still produce some milk and it will take a

and stay on top of that engorgement while your breasts settle down.

NAPPIES GALORE Every new mum expects to be changing lots of nappies in those first months, but not every mum realises quite how many that involves.

A baby that is feeding well in the first month, will typically do at least six wet nappies and at least three dirty nappies (they may poo less if bottle fed). Ideally you should be changing their nappies regularly to help prevent nappy rash. It is the ammonia in urine which causes the most irritation and you don’t want your baby sitting in poo for any longer than necessary, although at night time you don’t need to worry too much if they are asleep.

You may also find yourself changing your baby’s nappy to wake your baby up. That might sound a bit odd, surely you want your baby to sleep as much as possible and give you a break? But you also want your baby to feed effectively. Newborns are often very drowsy and will nod off five minutes into a feed. It can be a good idea to try and keep them awake

WELCOMING VISITORS Those first few days are often marked by a steady stream of visitors.

They tend to fall into two camps.

Those that get it, and those that just don’t! The ones that get it are usually parents themselves, they come round exactly when you ask, make a fuss of your older children (if you have them), bring lasagne for supper and don’t stay long. Those that don’t get it arrive late, say yes to staying for lunch and make themselves at home before finally being booted out! It is important to limit visitors so you are not too exhausted and have time to nap. More importantly, it’s best not to tire out and stimulate your baby too much. Being handed from visitor to visitor may mean they don’t get a good long nap and are left over-stimulated and tetchy.

On day three or four, when your milk comes in most mums have a bout of the “baby blues” and feel tearful and overwhelmed. This can be a good day to say no to visits. This mood will pass (it’s those hormones again!) but best to lay low, stay cosy with baby and warn your partner you may be a bit weepy and touchy.

HUGS AND KISSES One of the most wonderful things about coming home with your tiny baby is having a new little person to smother with kisses and cuddles. You cannot overdo this, all your baby really needs in those first few days and weeks is milk and love. lulubaby.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 89

CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER HOSPITAL

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

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

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PREGNANCY

FOR

SCANNING SUCCESS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

HISTORY Ian Donald, regius professor of midwifery at the University of Glasgow, was one of the pioneers of the medical use of ultrasound.

Working in the 1950s, he transferred his knowledge of sonar gained during the Second World War into the field of midwifery, with one of his first subjects being his pregnant daughter!

Today, the widespread use of ultrasound technology has had a great impact on the

way in which women and societies at large conceptualise and experience pregnancy and childbirth. The ability to see and determine features like the sex and health of the fetus impacts on the way in which an expecting mother experiences her pregnancy.

However, the use of ultrasound has led to many difficult ethical and moral dilemmas.

And the concept of the ‘fetus as a patient’ is one that is likely to develop enormously in the early 21st century.

CH EL SE A AN D WE STMIN STER OBSTE TRICIAN Keith Duncan TAKE S A CLOSER LOOK AT ANTENATAL SCAN S

METHODS Traditional obstetric scans are done by placing a probe on the abdomen of the pregnant woman. A transvaginal ultrasound, in which a probe is placed in the woman’s vagina, usually provides a clearer picture of the early pregnancy and is useful for obese women.

Doppler sonography detects the heartbeat of the fetus during pregnancy and can be used to evaluate signs of fetal distress in labour – a hugely important feature.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 91

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ULTRASONOGRAPHY EARLY PREGNANCY The gestational sac can sometimes be visualised as early as four and a half weeks of gestational age (approximately two and a half weeks after ovulation) and the yolk sac at five weeks gestation. The embryo can be observed and measured by five and a half weeks, and the heartbeat as early as five, but is usually more visible by seven weeks. Most miscarriages happen at seven weeks, but the rate of miscarriage drops significantly if a normal heartbeat is detected at this stage.

The most accurate measurement for dating is the crown-rump length of the fetus taken between seven and 13 weeks. A scan in early pregnancy is therefore invaluable for determining a due date. It also helps to classify multiple pregnancies and to exclude lifethreatening ectopic pregnancy.

NON-INVASIVE PRENATAL TESTING (NIPT) FROM 10 WEEKS Recent developments in antenatal investigations, known as non-invasive prenatal testing, mean that a sample of a mother’s blood taken early in pregnancy can reveal a range of abnormalities. Some abnormalities may need a diagnostic confirmation after testing, using more invasive methods.

COMBINED SCREENING (NUCHAL SCAN) 11-13 WEEKS This is a combined screening test for Down’s syndrome, done by measuring the nuchal translucency (skin fold thickness on the back of the neck) and two pregnancy hormones, PAPP-A and beta hCG. This information is

92 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Obstetric sonography has become useful in the assessment of the cervix in women at risk of premature birth. At 24 weeks gestation a cervix length of less than 25mm defines a risk group for preterm birth; the shorter the cervix the greater the risk. Ultrasonography is also helpful for women with preterm contractions as those whose cervix length exceeds 30mm are unlikely to deliver within the next week.

ABNORMALITY SCREENING Performed between 17 and 22 weeks, this scan detects developmental defects before birth. The status of the limbs and vital organs are checked, as well as specific tests for abnormalities. Some abnormalities detected can be addressed by medical treatment in the womb or care immediately after birth.

Indications of certain serious abnormalities means parents can consider decisions about continuing with the pregnancy.

3D AND 4D ULTRASOUND Modern 3D ultrasound and 4D (real time 3D) images provide greater detail for prenatal diagnosis than the older 2D ultrasound technology. However, while 3D is popular with parents desiring a photograph in the womb as a keepsake, at present it doesn’t offer major advantages to the 2D images.

GROWTH SCANS AND DOPPLER In risky pregnancies (twins or small babies) ultrasound assessments, such as monitoring the flow in the umbilical cord, can lead to improved survival at birth. There is also mounting evidence that offering a growth scan and Doppler to all mothers-to-be in late pregnancy could significantly reduce the number of babies lost late in pregnancy or born with brain damage. bl

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Meet

Experts DEEARNA WITHEY Breastfeeding consultant and maternity nurse

Sleeping at feeding time Mums can find that baby stays awake long enough to start a feed, but within 10 minutes they will begin to fall asleep.

94 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

the

OU R PROFE SSIONAL S GIVE ADVICE ON PAR ENTH OOD

IN ORDER TO PREVENT THIS, TRY THE FOLLOWING TIPS: ✽ Change baby’s nappy and ensure baby wakes up during the change. ✽ Gently blow on baby’s face during feed. ✽ Have some water and cotton wool close by and rub this along baby’s cheekbone. ✽ Ensure your baby hasn’t got too many layers on – just a nappy with a thin muslin over the top is ideal and then dress for bed after the feed. ✽ Softly run your finger down baby’s spine.

✽

Press your thumb in the centre of baby’s palm and rotate, this is the pressure point for their natural sucking reflex.

TRY TO AVOID: Massaging or running your fingers along baby’s head as any form of head massage will activate oxytocin release and melatonin which is the sleep hormone.

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HEALTH

DR ETIENNE HORNER Obstetrician and gynaecologist

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

Induction of labour I always try to find common topics for this column; often choosing questions I have been asked in my clinic about things that are bothering my patients and are a particular concern which, unsurprisingly, is giving birth.

Some women tell me that in the first few weeks of pregnancy they don’t want to be induced as they have heard horror stories.

Some even ask at what stage of pregnancy I would consider an induction and how often induction of labour ends in caesarean section for my patients. At the other end of the scale there are women who want to be induced on a particular date because it suits them better.

There is a huge difference in how women experience induction; those pregnant for the first time often have a different experience to women who have previously given birth.

The aim of induction is to achieve a safe vaginal delivery. The process is usually started with a specialised vaginal gel that softens and dilates the cervix. The gel acts slowly on the cervix to cause a cramp-period-like pain. It is important to mobilise whilst the gel is working as this helps to dilate the cervix. The gel can be repeated every six hours, for up to 24 hours, but most women do not require more than one or two doses.

Once the cervix has dilated a little, we can break the waters and start a syntocinon drip to keep the contractions going. If the patient experiences strong and regular contractions early on then the drip may not be needed, but it is almost always required for first-time births. Once labour has started properly, the induction has done its job, and we can then continue to assess the labour as it progresses.

Women can be induced from 39 weeks onwards (but ideally not any earlier if there is no medical indication to do so). Induction can be a positive experience culminating in a vaginal delivery if there are realistic expectations about the process, timelines and good pain relief (epidural). With all of that in mind, I feel induction of labour is a good way of achieving a vaginal birth.

07868 972 920 etiennehorner.co.uk

DR ROBERT ARLT MD

Consultant paediatrician at +richmond practice

How much crying is acceptable?

On average babies cry around 60 minutes a day. A healthy baby has an automatic capacity to settle without help from their parents. Studies show that crying often gets worse at about six weeks of age. You should be concerned if your child cries continuously for more than three hours in a row, more than three days a week, over a period of three weeks or more.

Research suggests that up to 30% of babies cry excessively. It usually starts at two weeks and can go on to six months.

What causes excessive crying?

There are a variety of medical causes.

The following are examples: ✽ Rhinitis – an irritation or inflammation inside the nose. ✽ Reflux – frequently associated with a cow’s milk protein intolerance. ✽ Urinary tract infections. ✽ A hernia. ✽ An intestinal intussusception or gut malformation. ✽ Meningitis. ✽ Other stomach problems.

remedy beyond its mainly placebo effect.

Some evidence suggests that babies who are picked up regularly will cry less. A regular routine which creates a predictable secure environment is also important.

Breastfeeding and/or a regular feeding schedule also may be settling.

YOU SHOULD AVOID: ✽ Excessive sensory stimulus. ✽ Letting the carer become over tired and emotionally exhausted. ✽ ‘Misunderstandings’.

A typical example of a ‘misunderstanding’ is when the baby turns their head away.

This usually means that the baby has had enough input and needs space. If anxious parents misinterpret this as rejection, they may attempt to play more with baby and this may make them cry. It also affects the baby’s ability to settle. The parent might lose confidence, impacting on their intuitive feel for the situation and child.

CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR: ✽ To ensure there is no underlying medical problem. ✽ If you’ve lost confidence. ✽ If after trying suggested measures your baby is still crying excessively.

020 8940 5009 richmondpractice.co.uk

A crying baby may also induce a vicious circle of interaction. If the baby is unsettled the parent becomes anxious and their intuitive perception of their baby’s needs may reduce. This causes insecure behaviour towards the baby, who may sense this and become more unsettled.

SOOTHING MEASURES: Unfortunately soothing measures such as positioning, moving, massage, homeopathy, even some commonly used medication, lack reliable evidence as a

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 95

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FINE DINING

The Reality of a

HOME BIRTH

AS TH E NATIONAL IN STITUTE FOR CLINICAL E XCELLEN CE PROMOTE S H OM E BIRTH S, Vanessa Christie SHAR E S H ER E XPERIENCE

n December 2014, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) published new guidelines on birth. One of the main messages it gave us was that, at the end of the day, it’s your body, your baby and your choice where you give birth. Having reviewed thousands of births, the guidelines concluded that, although there are no guarantees and always exceptions, for the vast majority of low-risk pregnancies, birth is generally safe wherever you are, be it a hospital-based obstetric unit, midwifery-led unit or at home.

In fact, the guidelines went further, saying that for low-risk women and babies, midwifeled units tend to be safer than hospitals (where sometimes unnecessary interventions can begin a cascade of events) and that for

I

their stress levels are low, allowing the natural physiological processes of birth the greatest opportunity to function most optimally.

If your body is flooded with cortisol and adrenaline, it becomes harder for the muscles to contract and dilate, thus slowing things down and increasing levels of pain. With that information in mind and after a heavy dose of research and soul searching I realised that, for my baby and I at least, the best decision was to be at home.

As my due dates disappeared further and further into oblivion, so too did most of my raspberryleaf, pineapple and curry-fuelled sanity. mothers who have With both of my already had at least pregnancies, I warded one child before, off the temptation of home births are just being induced and, as safe as those in any after what felt like an other setting. eternity, at 42 weeks I As a children’s went into spontaneous Vanessa and Gav with little Laria, at only nurse, health visitor labour at home. And 20 minutes old... and lactation there I stayed. consultant, I have felt The plan, both times, honoured and humbled to be a part of many was to be in the pool – a blow-up number births, both in the UK and abroad. Since they that my husband, Gav, thought could double hadn’t always been plain sailing, it came as up as a prop for summer parties… until he rather a surprise to my loved ones that I was actually saw me in labour and, miraculously, it thinking about home birth for myself. Surely hasn’t been seen since! Anyway, neither of my it’s selfish? Surely it can’t be safe? Am I mad? babies were actually born in there.

It has been known for a while that women With my first, I spent nearly eight perform labour best in an environment where hours inside it, drifting in and out of full consciousness. After a while, the gentle visualisations I’d been practising didn’t quite cut the mustard, so instead (and I have no clue why) I decided to take on the guise of an Olympic rower and heaved myself backwards and forwards, drenching the entire room in the process. In the end, helped by Gav and

IT CAME AS A SURPRISE TO MY LOVED ONES THAT I WAS THINKING ABOUT HOME BIRTH FOR MYSELF 98 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

LABOUR

TOP TIPS FOR BIRTH AT HOME Only go ahead if your gut is really in it

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SARAH LEGGE PHOTOGRAPHY

elie and Vanessa with her two girls, Am Laria, both born at home

my lovely doula Yvonne, I clambered out to be examined and was given the green light to push. By this point I literally couldn’t move and was on a bit of a ‘gas and air high’, so Amelie was born on our sitting room floor.

Fast-forward two years and our second daughter, Laria, was born in exactly the same position, on exactly the same spot. This time around everything happened so quickly, there was no time to fill up the pool or burn the candles or essential oils I’d spent a fortune on. I woke up with a contraction at 1am. My first thought was “I can’t give birth now, the dishwasher is full.” So, in nesting overdrive, I fought with the plates in-between almost continual contractions, until I realised that it would probably be sensible to wake up Gav. The animal instinct in me came out and I soon found myself curled up in a ball where Amelie had been born and around an hour later I gave birth to Laria, thankfully with the midwives arriving just in time.

Nothing in my life is comparable to those moments. I was elated yet totally shattered, and I had never loved my husband more than when we were curled up together on the sofa with a new baby in our arms.

I am not smug or superior and I certainly don’t judge anyone for making different choices to me. After all, it is an entirely personal decision and it is understandable that for many women giving birth at home just isn't right. I do however feel that positive birth stories, including those at home, need a voice. Even more so, because it has been something that was rarely, until now, even presented as an option.

Vanessa Christie runs ‘All about Baby & Me’, an independent support service, from pregnancy through to toddlerhood. allaboutbabyandme.co.uk

It’s no old wives’ tale that the more relaxed you are, the more straightforward things tend to be.

So if the thought of a home birth stresses you out and you’d prefer to be in a hospital, then that’s the right decision for you. It’s imperative to bear in mind that you should never do anything you aren’t comfortable with.

Get support After the initial raised eyebrows from my husband he ended up being 100% behind it. This was absolutely key for me as I know that if he was going to be nervous then I wouldn’t have been able to stay calm myself. Our doula, who we got to know well, also helped us feel more confident.

Stay zen We did a weekend-long hypnobirthing course to learn how to stay calm, feel in control and ultimately how to maintain (or at least try to) all that through the intensity of labour. From 32 weeks onwards, I practised the breathing and listened to the music.

The more you can repeat it over and over, the more conditioned both your body and brain will be to respond favourably when in labour.

Remember: pain isn’t scary One of the greatest things anyone ever said to me was: “remember that labour pain is not a scary pain. Nothing is wrong with you”. You aren’t in pain because you broke your leg. Your baby is coming and that’s all good. That mindset, alongside shriveling up like a walnut in the pool (at least the first time anyway!) and plenty of slugs on the gas and air, is what did it for me.

Find an experienced midwife We had some fantastic NHS midwives who I couldn’t fault. They had everything I possibly could have needed, including IV cannulas and fluids, resuscitation equipment, monitoring equipment, catheters, antibiotics, oxygen and pain relief. They were also trained for emergency situations, such as the rare case of a shoulder being stuck. They monitored both baby and I frequently, did all necessary examinations and I knew that they would not have hesitated to get me to hospital in the event of any issue. The only downside was that I hadn’t met them before – if you prefer to be guaranteed consistency then you can hire an independent midwife.

Be prepared for a hospital transfer For home births that end up being transferred to hospital, the most commonly cited reason is fatigue. Although it would have been counter-productive to focus too much on it, I was prepared for this possibility. I had my bags packed and it turned out I needed them first time around, as I was taken in briefly to get me checked out. No emergency, just good follow-up care. She was 9lbs 13oz. Enough said!

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 99

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NEWBORN

HOW TO…

SWADDLE

MIDWIFE, MATER NIT Y N U R SE AN D NAN NY Vicki Scot t GIVE S US H ER TOP TIPS FOR SWADDLING YOU R BABY

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADEN + ANAIS

WHY SWADDLE? From my experience with hundreds of babies over the last 15 years, I know that swaddling for the first eight to 12 weeks helps most newborns settle – by recreating the environment of the womb. Newborns have no control over limb movements until about 10 weeks, so a swaddle prevents involuntary movements from disturbing their sleep.

Most newborns who manage to suck their fingers to self soothe have only managed it by accident as a one-off. They tend to get most frustrated when they can’t find them again and this is the reason for wearing scratch mitts, but a swaddled baby doesn’t need them.

Another reason why swaddling works wonders is that it stops your baby from being rudely awakened by the newborn Moro reflex and the startle response.

This reflex is a normal part of your baby’s neurological development, however it causes him to suddenly jerk, flinging his arms and legs out like a starfish.

Since Biblical times, babies have been swaddled in some form or another with methods varying throughout the world and through different cultures. Mothers have long known the calming qualities a swaddle can have as a baby adjusts to the outside world.

Swaddling started to come back into fashion in the UK

towards the end of the last century. I imagine one of the reasons was because it was a time when parents were being advised to put babies on their back to sleep, leaving flailing arms free and the startle reflex could disturb the baby more easily.

Babies get to know what the swaddle means very quickly and come to love the comfort it offers.

WHEN AND HOW TO SWADDLE You can swaddle for sleeps from day one. However, many newborns seem fine without it for the first couple of weeks. Swaddling can help as they become more aware of their surroundings and don’t settle so easily.

Swaddle your baby for all naps if needed, day and night. One of the best tips is to swaddle then pick up for a cuddle, or rock in your arms. By swaddling first your baby relaxes, gets sleepy and is already cosy meaning it’s easier to put him down.

My preferred method is a simple wrap – such as the large aden + anais muslin squares. Fold it double into a triangle, lay baby with the back of the neck along the long folded edge, place one of his hands on his tummy and bring the cloth over his shoulder and wrap under his hip. Do the same on the

airCocoon Swaddle, £24.95 ergopouch.co.uk

Pros

Many babies settle more easily and sleep better when swaddled, from birth up to 12 weeks. ✽ Calms the startle reflexes, so baby is disturbed less when sleeping. ✽ Recreates the womb environment, making baby feel secure and reassured. ✽

Cons

Concerns about overheating if inappropriate products are used and environment is too warm. ✽ Potential for damage to normal hip development (hip dysplasia) if legs are firmly swaddled together in a straight position. A newborn’s hips are usually in a flexed position, opened out like a frog’s, this helps the normal development of the hips. If you accidentally swaddle too firmly around the hips, it can affect this and potentially cause problems. ✽

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 101

NEWBORN

other side. The fabric should be away from his face, making a v-shape at the neck – like a v-neck sweater – and loose around his legs and feet. There’s no need to fold over or under, just let the fabric hang down.

There are also many newer style swaddling wraps and bags on the market. Look out for cotton fabric and an appropriate tog rating depending on the time of year and temperature of your home.

The products made by Puckababy and ergoPouch are a lot easier to use if you don’t have the swaddling ‘knack’. More like a bag than a wrap, the clever use of a zip makes the process very easy, a very wriggly baby is less likely to ‘escape’ and the swaddle effect is looser around the hips.

HOW TO REMOVE THE SWADDLE At around 10 to 12 weeks, babies begin to have more control of their hands and arms, there’s less thrashing and they find their fingers or thumbs to self soothe.

I have found that the best way is to gradually remove the swaddle, starting with the naps when your baby settles easiest, and to move to a half swaddle, then a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets.

Half swaddling simply means that you leave baby’s hands and arms out of the swaddle, continuing to wrap around the tummy. If that’s too much at first, then try a three-quarter swaddle with just one arm out.

Once baby is settling well half swaddled for the easiest naps, then gradually start to half swaddle at other sleep

times – before replacing the swaddle with a sleeping bag shortly after.

SWADDLE UP!

KEEPING IT SAFE The Royal College of Midwives cautions parents, generally advising against swaddling, but it does note that individualised advice should be given to mothers, ensuring babies are safe and free to move.

The latest safety advice from The Lullaby Trust is to use thin materials and avoid covering the head. Also, keep an eye on baby’s temperature by feeling baby’s chest or back of the neck.

The Lullaby Trust also stresses that parents are made aware of the risk of wrapping baby too tightly as this will restrict the hips. bl newbabycompany.com

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babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 103

Baby London Autumn.indd 1

16/07/2014 11:04

y r Dia of a

mum

Part 12

MUM- OF-TH R EE Becky Dickinson TRIE S TO JUGGLE CHILDR EN AN D WOR K , AN D EN DS U P DROPPING A BALL ince becoming a mum, life has been a series of dilemmas. Disposable nappies or eco ones? Purées or baby-led weaning? And does anything get rid of stretch marks?

But the dilemma which causes mums the most angst is: should I return to work? If the answer is yes, then there are questions like: should I work part time? Can I work from home? And will I ever fit into that trouser suit again? In my case; yes, yes and probably not.

Working from home definitely has its advantages. There aren’t many places you can spend the day in a onesie, with unbrushed hair, eating Crunchy Nut Cornflakes out of a Tupperware container while checking Facebook at 10 minute intervals.

However, the downside of working from home once you have children, is that you have children. Because however much childcare you

S

to exhaust my daughter. By the time we’ve walked to the letter box (the long way), danced our socks off to All About That Bass and bashed out numerous nursery rhymes with shakers and bells, one of us is ready for bed. Unfortunately, it’s not her. She knows there’s something I have to do and there’s no way she’s going to sleep so I can do it.

With minutes to go until my call, I resort to Bad Mother tactics and stick Peppa Pig in the DVD player. My guilt continues as I hand The Toddler a packet of something that doesn’t even pretend to be part of her five a day.

Praying that muddy puddles and a sugarladen snack will keep her quiet long enough for me to work, I creep into the kitchen with my phone. Minutes later, the door squeaks open and a beaming face appears.

“More!’’ she says waving the empty sweet packet in the air.

YOUR CHILDREN WILL SNIFF OUT YOUR PLANS AND TURN THEM INTO PORRIDGE. AND THEN SMEAR THAT PORRIDGE ALL OVER THE CARPETS sign up for, it is never enough. This means you will try to cram in whole assignments around nap times, and possibly CBeebies. The trouble is your children will sniff out your plans and turn them into porridge. And then smear that porridge all over the carpets.

Take this week. Day one: The Toddler develops conjunctivitis and is banned from attending nursery – even though that’s clearly where she caught it in the first place.

Unfortunately, I have an unavoidable telephone appointment so I set about trying

104 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

I shake my head, and place a finger to my lips, hoping she’ll get the hint. Amazingly, she does and turns her attention to the contents of one of the cupboards instead. It’s not ideal, but at least she’s quiet.

As the interview progresses, I’m suddenly aware of a strange dust in the air. I turn to discover half the kitchen now resembles the set of Frozen. The floor has turned a

dazzling white and my daughter looks like she’s been rolling in talcum powder. I’d forgotten that cupboard contained the flour.

“Mess!’’ exclaims The Toddler, then toddles off to get the dustpan and brush. Naturally, she has no intention of actually cleaning, but proceeds to spread the flour around any uncovered surfaces.

It’s all I can do to sound professional and hope the person on the other end thinks I am working in an orderly office, not in

BABY TALK

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

A strong coffee might be in order if you are a working mum

a cross between an explosion in a bakery and a nursery. Thank goodness we’re not on Skype.

As a fine white mist settles over the washing-up, something else assaults my senses. Compost? The bin? Then I realise it’s my daughter. She now needs a nappy change.

Well she’ll have to wait, there’s only so much multi-tasking I’m capable of, although the smell is practically melting my eyeballs. Just as I’m wondering how I can bring it to a timely end, an almighty screech shakes the kitchen.

I jump round to see The Toddler playing

with an old smoke alarm.

I have no idea where she found it and even less idea how she managed to set it off.

I grab it before we both end up with perforated ear drums and scrabble at the battery pack. It won’t budge. There’s nothing for it, but to terminate my interview.

“I’m sorry, I think the fire alarm’s gone off,’’ I say. “We’ll have to leave it there.’’ I hang up.

The Toddler has won.

Actually she’s done me a favour, I couldn’t really concentrate anyway. Two days later, the eye is better and she can attend her only other nursery session of the week.

I’m about to get her dressed, when her older sister comes in.

“Mummy, my eye’s all sticky...’’

Which means only one thing: soon the third child will have it too. So much for working.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 105

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INTERVIEW

Time to Talk…

RETURNING TO WORK MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

M

any 21st century women are no longer happy giving up work to become full-time mothers.

Sometimes, as a breadwinner, they have no choice, but often mothers simply aren’t prepared to relinquish the career they’ve spent years building. Yes they want to be good mothers, but also realise that in order to achieve this, they need to think about what is good for them.

As all successful women know, in order to get what you want, you need to grab it yourself. Find what works for you by managing and planning your maternity package right from the beginning.

Plan your maternity leave.

Don’t leave it all until the last minute. If you hand over in a hurry, the likelihood is it won’t be done very well. Look at this as your first chance to show your employer that being a mother will not affect your brilliance at work. If you start planning three

This issue the sisters address maternity leave and when to get back to work months before your maternity leave starts, you will leave with the confidence that your work is being left in good hands.

Keeping in touch (KIT) days are designed to ensure that women don’t feel out of touch while

settling and nappy changing, you might find going back into work a bit daunting, but most relish a few hours away from their newborn and the opportunity to get out of those mummy jeans.

Use KIT days to ease yourself

BECOMING A MOTHER TURNS YOU INTO A KIND OF SUPERHERO on maternity leave. Although employers are not obliged to offer these paid days, most do.

It’s worth planning your first KIT day before you start maternity leave, maybe for three to four months after your due date.

After months of feeding, burping,

back into the workplace as well as testing childcare arrangements.

Most mothers would ideally like some kind of flexible working arrangement which new mothers have the right to request. You only get one chance, so make sure it’s right and has a good

chance of being accepted. Use your application not only to suggest flexible working but to illustrate how you can do your job just as well with the flexibility you are proposing. Don’t be afraid to big yourself up; show your employer what a valuable asset you are.

Becoming a mother is not about what you ‘give up’ to have a child, but really what you gain. Motherhood will teach you to multitask, negotiate and manage your time better than any business degree. In fact, becoming a mother turns you into a kind of superhero – we know we can function with no sleep, no food and in spite of this remain calm in the most stressful situations. And what employer wouldn’t hire a superhero?

For more information about The Bump Class’ Maternity Returner Class check online: thebumpclass.com

babylondon.co.uk MAY/JUN 2015 | 107

XXXXXX

Recipe for

business success

ENTR EPR EN EU R AN D COOKERY WRITER , AN NABEL K AR M EL, TALKS TO Kate Finney ABOUT H ER N EW BUSIN E SS BOOK 108 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

aving sweated over Annabel Karmel’s weaning books as a new mother, I’d always pictured her as a friendly companion in the kitchen, dispensing invaluable advice on how to feed a new baby. In real life, while she is all of the above, she has also built up a seriously impressive, multi-million pound business from scratch.

And, luckily for us, she has decided to share the lessons she has learnt over the last two decades in her new book, Mumpreneur.

Before becoming a mother, Annabel was a harpist and musician, touring the world

H

BACK TO WORK

IF YOU’RE GOING TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS YOUR ALL, THEN YOU HAVE TO BE READY TO BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Annabel Karmel’s new book provides you with a toolkit for turning your light-bulb moment into a business

with artists like Boy George and Liberace. Her first daughter, Natasha, tragically died when she was only a few weeks old, leaving Annabel adrift, and unable to find solace in her music which suddenly seemed superficial to her. It was after she had her second baby, Nicholas, that she started to focus on food. “He was a very fussy eater,” remembers Annabel, but after a French doctor recommended trying some unusual recipes, she had her first light-bulb moment.

After learning that it just wasn’t true that

babies only liked bland food, she started testing out her tasty recipes on 20 babies in her local playgroup. This led to the realisation that “having children doesn’t have to be a full stop at the end of your CV” and was the starting point for a new business. Despite a few stumbling blocks – her first book was rejected by publishers 15 times before going on to be a bestseller – Annabel says she did her homework and found her niche.

Mumpreneur is specifically aimed at mothers starting up businesses, and emphasises that the skills you develop as a mother are all valuable and transferable ones.

“In many ways working can be much easier,” says Annabel, who went on to have two more daughters, Lara and Scarlett. “For example, taming a destructive toddler… there is no better training than that!”

The book is packed with practical advice – from developing your initial idea to raising finance, drawing up your business plans, collaborating with others and building your brand. There are also several illuminating case studies with brilliant businesswomen, like Chrissie Rucker who founded The White Company and cosmetics guru Liz Earle.

Ultimately, the core message is to approach your business professionally, but with heart.

“I did it with love and passion,” explains Annabel, “as a way to tackle my son’s fussy eating and as a legacy to my daughter, Natasha.” If you’re going to give your business your all, then you have to be ready to believe in yourself, and to exploit the gaps in your day – nap times and evenings for example.

“It’s a lifestyle, you live it and breathe it!” exclaims Annabel. “So please don’t launch your own business purely for the money and earning potential; rather, do it for the passion, fulfilment and flexibility.”

Mumpreneur: The Complete Guide to Starting and Running a Successful Business

by Annabel Karmel (£16.99, Vermillion with Direct Line for Business).

ANNABEL’S TOP TIPS FOR STARTING A BUSINESS

1

Find your niche: you don’t have to come up with a unique invention – you just need to do something better than anyone else.

2

Confidence is just as important as competence. The more you believe in yourself and in your chances of succeeding, the more likely you are to do just that.

3

Find your guilt threshold and get into a routine that works for you. Only put the essential tasks on your to-do list so that it feels achievable, and plan meticulously.

4

The opposite of success isn’t failure, it is not trying. If you seldom fail there is a good chance you’re playing it too safe.

5

Be a networker: don’t be shy about broadcasting your idea, you never know who may be willing and able to help you.

6

Don’t quit too soon – perseverance is a key attribute to develop. Sir James Dyson went through 5,126 failed prototypes over 15 years, but the 5,127th worked!

7

Research and plan: take time to test your business idea. Friends and family may try to dissuade you because of their own fears.

Look for honest, informed feedback.

8

Always analyse the competition to see how you can gain that edge in a competitive marketplace. Knowledge is power.

9

Embrace social media and learn how you can add value and engage with your current and potential customers. Do it right and you’ll become a trusted brand with an army of advocates.

10

Build a strong team around you: find the person with the right talents, skills and attitude to support your business.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 109

Formula brands are generally based on skimmed cow’s milk with added whey powder

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It has a whole goat milk base and no added whey

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It requires less processing, providing a mild and creamy milk your baby will enjoy It forms soft curds in your baby’s delicate tummy1 Like all follow on milks, NANNYcare meets all nutritional requirements as required by law. NANNYcare is also supported by two clinical trials2,3. These studies were instrumental in the amendment of EU Directive 2006/141/EC to include goat milk.

NANNYcare helps to provide...

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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.

HEALTH

health & beauty

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

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Book home visits from trustworthy and experienced specialists from the comfort of your sitting room. From lactation and sleep consultants to nutritionists and physiotherapists. Go to doitformummy.com to match your needs with professionals that can care for you and baby at home.

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NEW RESEARCH HAS SHOWN THAT LONG-TERM BREASTFEEDING INCREASES A BABY’S INTELLIGENCE. A BRAZILIAN UNIVERSITY STUDY PROVIDES THE FIRST EVIDENCE OF ITS KIND THAT THE NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF MOTHER’S MILK IS ESSENTIAL FOR BRAIN GROWTH.

It’s now even easier to lead a healthy lifestyle thanks to the new Eat to be Healthy range from Daylesford. From organic, coldpress juices to almond milks and tasty seed pots, the range is packed full of super-nutrients and organic pulses that are perfect for that little boost. daylesford.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK, ISTOCK

RUB-A-DUB-DUB This new range of bubbly goodness from Paddy’s Bathroom is bursting with organic, natural ingredients that are super gentle on sensitive skin and sting-free on little eyes. Designed by the brilliant people behind Ella’s Kitchen, the collection smells heavenly and will fill your bathroom with fun! paddysbathroom.com

RADIANCE-PLUS GOLDEN GLOW BOOSTER A little something for mamas-to-be who are missing their sun fix.

Add a few drops to your moisturiser in the morning and rock a healthy glow all day. £18 | clarins.co.uk

STUDENTS GET THEIR TEETH INTO ORAL HYGIENE The Family Nurse Partnership Programme, who offer support to young expectant mothers, have teamed up with medical and dental students at Plymouth University to raise awareness among new mothers about the importance of oral hygiene.

WANT TO BECOME AN EXPERT IN YOUR OWN PREGNANCY? NEW APP MY PREGNANCY CAPL IS THE FIRST TO ALLOW YOU TO INDEPENDENTLY TRACK YOUR PREGNANCY AND DEVELOPS A DETAILED, WEEK-BY-WEEK CARE GUIDANCE PLAN JUST FOR YOU, BASED ON UK GUIDELINES. IT COMES WITH A CONTRACTION TIMER, KICK COUNTER AND BIRTH PLAN CREATOR.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 111

MUM

ON A

MISSION

Rebecca Moore TALKS TO FOR M ER PUSSYCAT DOLL, SINGER , DAN CER AN D TELEVISION PER SONALIT Y Kimberly Wyat t ABOUT DANCING BACK INTO SHAPE

in knowledge her cooking ow Topping up ill with W the kitchen

Kimberly with her dancing shoes firmly on both before and after having little Willow

How are you finding life as a new mum?

I’m loving every second of being a mum to my gorgeous little girl Willow, I couldn’t be happier. She’s amazing – super smiley, quite content and she gets cuter every single day. I’m so excited for the coming months, watching her grow and how her personality develops. It’s fascinating seeing her learn new things so quickly.

Willow is a gorgeous name, how did you decide on it?

Before I was pregnant, Max and I were joking around about what we would name our children. Our good friend Davina McCall mentioned that she liked the name Willow and well, so did we.

Have you any can’t-live-without baby products?

The Baby Bath & Shampoo from Neal’s Yard Remedies is fantastic as it is natural and organic so I feel guilt-free using it on my baby’s pure skin. Their baby balm is great for baby massages too. Pampers nappies are the best!

The blue line that lets you know whether or not baby needs a change is a lifesaver.

We’re going colour crazy this spring, have you a favourite colour to dress Willow in?

Nautical blue and white stripes are always fun and I’m loving yellows and tangerines, too.

How did you adapt to pregnancy with your busy lifestyle?

I just did my best to take it in my stride. My doctor gave me the best advice: I’m not ill… just pregnant. Our bodies are made to do this!

I’m lucky since I have danced my whole life so my fitness levels meant my body coped well with continuing on as normal. I kept dancing

112 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

XXXXXX

until I was about six months pregnant. I performed on Got to Dance with little Willow in my tummy. My husband Max was incredibly supportive throughout and even pitched in with a few back rubs here and there.

How did you keep fit while pregnant?

I had a fantastic personal trainer, Jane Wake, who designed my own pregnancy fitness programme. She was awesome in adapting her fitness regime to my dance movements.

I combined this with yoga, plenty of light stretching and long walks with my dog Cupid.

What did you do to get back into shape postpregnancy? Can you share your secrets?

Because Willow was born by cesarean, I couldn’t start exercising until six weeks after her birth, but once I was feeling better I would take her for a quiet stroll in the buggy to kick-start the process and for plenty of fresh air. When my doctor gave me the ‘all clear’, I started gently exercising with my postnatal trainer, who was really great at helping me rehab the separation in my abdomen muscles.

I never knew that was part of it! She has also helped me to re-strength my pelvic floor and core muscles through Pilates-infused circuit training. She came to the house so I could exercise with Willow three times a week.

Recently, I’ve returned to doing my hot yoga, HIIT training and some tough cardio as I aim to do the Vitality World Triathlon London in May. You work closely with MaxiNutrition, what is it and how does it help you?

I’ve always been careful with how I feed my body. MaxiNutrition’s products support my high-protein diet and I can just grab a Promax Lean shake or bar when on-the-go. Their shakes help muscle recovery as the intensity of my workouts increase.

How do you juggle motherhood and a career?

It can be tough, especially when Willow keeps me up at night. I love everything I do and I think that when you love your job,

Pampers, changing mat, muslins, Tommee Tippee bottles, Cow and Gate Formula when out and about just in case, two extra changes of clothes, her favourite little Moo Cow that Nana got her, an extra hat... it’s never ending!

Still smiling po

st-workout...

the determination to successfully balance it all becomes a passion.

I kind of feel like I’m a mum on a mission!

Having a very supportive husband and handson dad has been a saving grace.

What can be found in your changing bag?

All the essentials… Essential Waitrose baby wipes are my favourite because they come out one at a time instead of all sticking together which helps when you have an explosion.

KIMBERLY’S ESSENTIALS Easy-Vent Bottle £9.99 for two | tommeetippee.co.uk

MaxiNutrition Promax Lean Bar £25.99 for 12 Pack | maxishop.com

Baby Balm £11 | nealsyardremedies.com

Do you have any favourite London hangouts with little Willow?

One of my favourite places to take her is Kew Gardens. It’s such a lovely place to take a stroll with the family.

Do you miss life in Los Angeles? Will you move back with your young family or do you count yourself as a Londoner now?

I love London! I feel more at home here than I do anywhere else. Since getting married and starting a family here I feel closer to being a Londoner but I’ll never forget where I came from. I’m an American Girl trying to live the American Dream in the United Kingdom.

What are your family summer plans?

Possibly visiting some friends in South Africa or maybe a nice long weekend to Dubai. But most of my summer plans involve expanding my cooking knowledge in the kitchen surrounded by friends and family with the sun shining and helping Willow learn to crawl in the beautiful parks of London! maxinutrition.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 113

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DEPART TO DEVON

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

A literary haunt for many well known writers, from Agatha Christie to Enid Blyton, Soar Mill Cove offers luxury accommodation just minutes from Salcombe, Devon. Why not enjoy your own Paddington Bearthemed escape – jump on the train, pack some homemade marmalade sandwiches and finish with the new Paddington Bear movie in your gorgeous hotel room. And dogs are welcome too! soarmillcove.co.uk

CUSTOMISE YOUR RIDE Exclusively wheeling in on trunki.co.uk, little travellers can go globetrotting on a totally bespoke ride-on suitcase with the ‘made for me’ Trunki. There are nine different parts and 10 different colourways, so you’ll never bump into a Trunki twin again. £40 | trunki.co.uk

ORGANISING A BABY PASSPORT PHOTO CAN BE A NIGHTMARE FOR PARENTS. JESSOPS IS OFFERING A BABY PASSPORT SERVICE USING A SUPPORTIVE BABY CUSHION TO SIT YOUR LITTLE ONE UPRIGHT. PLUS, YOUR PICTURES WILL BE INSTANTLY PRINTED IN STORE USING FUJIFILM TECHNOLOGY, ONLY TAKING A MATTER OF MINUTES. JESSOPS.COM

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 115

TRAVEL

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Babywarma Baby Wetsuit £15.99, konfidence.co.uk

Mini A Ture romper £30.20, iglookids.co.uk

6

7 Taylor Fish Print Swimsuit £55, stellamccartney.com 1 La Roche-Posay Dermo-Kids £16, feelunique.com 2 Banana Boat Baby Block £10.50, boots.com 3 Sun Care Milk For Children £19.50, clarins.co.uk 4 Nivea Baby £6.50, boots.com 5 Sunsense Toddler Milk £13.65, johnlewis.com 6 Mustela Sun Protection Spray £19.95, escentual.com 7 Organic Children Sun Lotion £13.95, greenpeople.co.uk

116 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Green Babiators £21.99, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Childs Farm 3-in-1 Swim £3.99, boots.com

Fish Print One-Piece Sunsuit £19, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Baby Sun Set £34.55, platypusaustralia.com

Floppy Sun Hat £12, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

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Powder Byrne Crèche (4 months to 3 years) Travelling as a family takes on a whole new dimension thanks to the support of our dedicated pb crèche team. Explore our hand-picked resorts this summer and enjoy the holiday you all deserve.

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REAL LIFE

d n a l s I G N I V I L THER O M W E R A N D N R N E W B A BY E N G I S E G HE RY D J E W E L L E O N W E LCO M I N S I G N I N G T H E DE ros K a te M av E L I Z A B E T H A N D C O L L E C T I O N AZAAN U RCH I N A E S G STUNNIN

118 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

REAL LIFE

Kate, Forbes and baby Azaan soak up the sun in their Mauritian paradise

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 119

REAL LIFE

I

I grew up in rural Pennsylvania, which was both beautiful and remote. As one of five children (I’m a twin), we played constantly in our backyard garden and forest. My favourite quest was to search for fossils in the ravine behind our house, which led to my fascination for stones and gemology.

Like many girls I’ve loved jewellery ever since I was little. As a child I made necklaces and earrings for my mother and sisters from whatever natural stones I could find. I soon became a passionate designer always in pursuit of high-quality gems.

This led me into the world of coloured and precious stones, through which I have met and befriended many of the equally colourful characters who cut, polish, and deal in them.

I met Forbes and his brother Patrick Jnr in 2011 at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show in Arizona, while they were sourcing stones for their designs. I was totally taken by Forbes, an incredibly talented, handsome and wild, jewellery designer from Zimbabwe. Soon after I met Forbes I moved to Mauritius and we started our life together.

allowing the natural rhythms to take over. It worked very well for me. I gave birth in a private clinic with full medical facilities, but we were able to follow our natural birth plan. Forbes was a huge support and the best birthing partner, he even cut the umbilical cord! He says his animal interactions in Zimbabwe prepared him, and he was never intimidated or nervous. He raised two pet pookies (also known as bush babies) from birth and this made him a confident father from the beginning!

The birth, a water birth, was an amazing and wonderful experience. I delivered our baby girl to Yo-Yo Ma playing Bach’s Unaccompanied Cello Suites. Keeping my mind focused on positive thoughts greatly helped the experience. And it turned out to be only the second water birth to have taken place on the island.

Our baby was born on 6 August at 5:30 in the morning as the sun rose over the Indian Ocean. At the mosque next door the Azaan was being called, which is the call to prayer. The particular Muezzin had an incredibly beautiful voice and

ired by the

on is insp My pregnancy went very well. I wasn’t hin collecti eature The Sea Urc e marine cr extreme in any particular practice but and delicat fascinating continued my yoga and incorporated a bit of Pilates. I kept a healthy diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat but did develop an obsession for vanilla ice cream – perhaps because of the fresh vanilla beans Mauritius is known for!

We took a hypnobirthing course in London when I was about six months pregnant. It was very informative and I prepared with the deep relaxation techniques. The hypnobirthing philosophy is simple; that birth is natural, your body knows what to do, and one should relax as much as possible to increase the oxytocin hormones and decrease adrenaline,

The Mavros family

120 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores & www.pregnacare.com Pregnacare® contains iron which contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue. 2For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. 3UK Health Departments recommend mothers take a supplement containing 10mcg vitamin D during breast-feeding, and a healthy diet rich in calcium. 4A beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 200mg of DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg of DHA/EPA for adults. Do not exceed a supplemental daily intake of 5g DHA/EPA combined. *IRI value sales 52. w/e 6th September 2014.

1

REAL LIFE

Kate and baby Azaan

climate she loves to play in the shade of her Cassia tree. Our home is very open plan and we often bath Azaan in her baby tub on our veranda with the lovebirds chirping in the background.

Fortunately I was able to work from home in the beginning. We worked on the Sea Urchin Collection when Azaan napped, and in the evenings we would continue with the designs and preparations for the launch. Our atelier has a garden so when we’re at the office she has lots of space and is getting to know our customers from a very early age.

moments later the church bells rang to welcome the dawn. We decided later that day to name our daughter Azaan. It’s an old Arabic word, and means ‘strength’ in Swahili.

After we named our daughter, our doctor wrote us the most beautiful letter describing the name and what it means. Here is an excerpt from her letter to us: “The Azaan, which is a call for prayers and an invite to introspection, is usually read out five times a day in the Islamic faith, the first Azaan called Fajjarr being just before sunrise and announces the arrival of a new day, a new beginning, a harbinger of hope, of light, of warmth...”

The Sea Urchin Collection started from a necklace Forbes sent me in Pennsylvania, it was basically the Sea Urchin Spine Necklace that he made from a real urchin spine in which he’d drilled holes in order to set tiny starfish. When I opened the package my Mom gasped and said it was the most beautiful necklace she had ever seen!

We’ve been collecting sea urchins for over two years.

We would take a boat to a secret island where we found hundreds of urchins washed ashore. They are incredibly beautiful when the organism leaves the shell behind and they glisten on the beach in pinks, purples, yellows and

AZAAN IS BEING BROUGHT UP WITH HER LITTLE TOES IN THE WARM RIPPLES OF THE INDIAN OCEAN Bringing up my baby in Mauritius is idyllic. Azaan rarely leaves my side and goes absolutely everywhere with me. Fortunately, my mother-in-law, Catja, arrived just a day after she was born.

We joked that she swam across the Mozambique Channel to welcome the first-born girl into the Mavros family in over 57 years! As a mother who brought up four sons in rural Africa she was my perfect companion and teacher in those precious moments. Her love, warmth, patience and strength in those first few tender weeks was so special.

We live in a tropical paradise. Our house is nestled in the shade of coconut palms on a white sandy beach so Azaan is being brought up with her little toes in the warm ripples of the Indian Ocean.

We keep her out of the sun but when dusk brings a warm breeze and temperate

greens. We only select the perfect, unbroken urchins for inspiration. Mauritius has a special energy; you can imagine dodo birds wandering through the old forests of banyan, coconut, and palm trees with tropical flowers and fruits. And there is nothing between the west coast of Australia and us.

Baby gifts have always been a part of our business, and most of them have been bespoke pieces, giving us a lovely reputation in the world of baby gifts. Before she was born, Azaan’s grandfather Patrick set about making her a beautiful tiny stork carrying a baby in 18ct gold. We don’t have a baby line or collections per se but we have a great wealth of designs, which are drawn upon for unique gifts for babies. Normally, objet d’art that are gifts to babies become future heirlooms. The objet d’art is unique to them and lives on in the next generation. patrickmavros.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 123

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Self feeding

– Introducing the NEW Wafers from Kiddylicious.

Kiddylicious Wafers are an ideal first finger food from 6 months or weaning. Made with rice flour, real fruit or vegetable powders and significantly less sugar than other rusks.

Our gluten free Wafers are light in texture and dissolve easily providing subtle first tastes for baby. Mums tell us they love that Wafers are mess free for little ones, easy to hold and that their toddlers enjoy scooping them in their favourite yoghurts or dips.

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TRAVEL

Postcard from…ª

KENYA

Fearless baby Willow fell in love with the sea

Willow enjoys a journey African-style

TR AVEL ADVISER Claire Eastwood HAS AN AFRICAN ADVENTU R E WITH H ER N EW BABY recently made my annual pilgrimage back home to Kenya, where I was born and raised. For me there is no better place on earth! This year was particularly special as I was bringing my six-month-old baby girl, Willow, home for the first time.

We set off from New York, flew via London, Nairobi and then on to Watamu on the coast. Willow was the ultimate travel companion and slept for most of the journey.

We sampled various flavours of Ella’s Kitchen pouches thanks to British Airways, played a few games on the iPad and arrived some 20+ hours later.

Our first stop was Nairobi and a visit to Giraffe Manor to have breakfast with the giraffes, as other an r fo y you do! My sister ad of us: re Ju st the two journey c ti an tl sa Kelly and I loved an 20 + hour tr it as children and we couldn’t wait to take Willow to the hotel, where the resident herd of giraffes have breakfast with guests before retreating into the forest. Thinking perhaps this was a giant version of Sophie la Girafe, my ‘no fear’ baby was right in there, stroking the towering giraffes.

One final plane journey took us home to Watamu, on the coast of Kenya, where my parents and dogs were anxiously awaiting the arrival of Willow – think the theme tune to Lion King, when baby Simba is

I

shown to the world!

Willow loved her first swim, shrieking with laughter. Every day she would have her morning dip with her Babu (‘grandfather’ in Swahili). The afternoons were a mix of naps and playtime, with late afternoon walks on the beach and more swimming. The sea was a great fascination, and again, no fear.

We left the beach with tears in our eyes. To soften the blow we stopped off in Nairobi, to see the 30 boisterous baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

They are all so loveable, but then you remember why they’re there, victims of poaching and without their mummies. Taking Willow there had a whole new meaning for me.

The Trust does magnificent work and I only hope these wonderful animals are still walking the earth when Willow is an old lady.

Being away for a month, Willow had packed on another pound, so the decision to travel without a pushchair was not my best! But strapped in to the Ergobaby carrier, we started the long journey home.

During our stopover at Heathrow Airport we went for breakfast at Giraffe, sat down, and Willow started screaming at the giant giraffes in the centre of the room.

Very entertaining – for me anyway!

Back in NYC, Kenyan beaches and wild giraffes are now a distant memory. But now Willow will only eat mangos for breakfast. You can take the girl out of Africa...

Visiting the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi

Watamu is one of the most beautiful coastal spots in Kenya

Willow and Aunt Kelly say hello to a warthog

claireeastwood.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 125

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NEWS

PU

.

U

Food

O N .C O

WAFER WONDERS On the menu this spring, from the good guys at Kiddylicious, is a scrummy new range of rice wafers. With a subtle fruit or vegetable flavour, they’re great for developing little taste buds. kiddylicious.co.uk

BLUEBERRIES SUCK Gourmet yoghurt brand The Collective has added Blueberry to its range of portable yoghurt pouches for mini mouths. Suitable for six months plus, Suckies make for a delicious spoon-free snack. thecollectivedairy.com

THE FIRST FOODS BOOK

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

Fresh out of the kitchen (Ella’s that is!) is The First Foods Book, the third in the successful Ella’s Kitchen Cook Book series. It’s packed with top tips and more recipes than you can shake a spoon at, with everything from weaning to the big table. £14.99 | ellaskitchen.co.uk

TODDLER TREATS We’re loving the latest from Organix Goodies. The fruit bars, for babies from 12 months, are ideal for spring picnics or snacks on the go. organix.com

FROM THE TEAM THAT BROUGHT YOU THE BANDANA STYLE DRIBBLE BIB, SKIBZ HAVE NOW LAUNCHED CATCHERZ. THE PERFECT COMPANION THROUGH THE WEANING STAGE, THEY CAN BE USED FROM THREE MONTHS. SAY GOODBYE TO MESS AND HELLO TO CLEAN-ISH BABIES! £10.50 | SKIBZ.CO.UK

FOOD

TASTE THE

RAINBOW

ADD A SPL ASH OF COLOU R TO TH E KITCH EN WITH TH E SE FU N AN D FRUIT Y R ECIPE S FROM FOOD GU RU Annabel Karmel

128 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

FOOD

STRAWBERRY AND WATERMELON ICE LOLLIES FUN , FRESH AND FRUIT Y • MAKES 6 LOLLIES INGRE DIE NTS

50g caster sugar 60ml water 250g strawberries 250g watermelon, cubed and deseeded METHOD

Put the sugar and water into a small saucepan and boil until syrupy (about 3 minutes). Allow to cool. ✽ Purée the strawberries and sieve to get rid of the seeds. Purée the watermelon and mix with the strawberries and cooled syrup. ✽ Finally pour the mixture into your ice lolly moulds and freeze. ✽

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 129

FOOD

JELLIES WITH SUMMER FRUITS A TASTE OF SUMME R • MAKES 6 INDIVIDUAL JE LLIES INGRE DIE NTS

6 leaves gelatine (about 8g) 600ml cranberry and raspberry juice 40g caster sugar 175g mixed berries, such as raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries (hulled and quartered) METHOD

Put the gelatine in a shallow dish and pour over just enough cranberry and raspberry juice to cover. Leave it to soften for approximately 5 minutes. ✽ Heat half the remaining juice with the sugar in a saucepan until bubbling. Mix in the gelatine and any juice, stirring until dissolved.

Set aside to cool down a little, then stir in the rest of the fruit juice. ✽ Divide the berries between 6 jelly moulds (or 4 175ml pudding basins). Pour over enough liquid to just cover the berries. It’s a good idea to rinse the moulds first and leave a little water clinging to the sides – this can help stop the jelly from sticking. ✽ Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until beginning to set. Pour over the remaining liquid, or enough to fill the moulds or pudding basins, and return to the fridge to set completely. ✽ To turn out the jellies, dip each mould in a bowl of hot water, then turn onto a plate and give it a few quick shakes. Hopefully the jelly will slide out. ✽

SIMPLE BERRY FRUIT BRÛLÉE BE RRIES AND CRE AM • MAKES 4 PORTIONS INGRE DIE NTS

300g mixed berry fresh fruits, such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries 150ml double cream 150g Greek yoghurt 2 tbsp icing sugar ½ tsp pure vanilla essence 1 ½ tbsp soft brown sugar for the topping METHOD

Pre-heat the grill to high. Divide the fresh assortment of berries between 4 small (10cm diameter) ramekin dishes or heatproof glass dishes. ✽ Lightly whip the cream until it forms soft peaks. Fold in the Greek yoghurt, icing sugar and vanilla essence. ✽ Spoon the creamy yoghurt mixture over the fruits in the glass dishes. Finally, sprinkle over the brown sugar and cook under the grill for about 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden and is bubbling. Enjoy! ✽

FRUITY DIP A FRESH CATCH • PE RFECT TO SHARE INGRE DIE NTS

225g cream cheese 100g lemon curd ½ teaspoon lemon juice Zest of ½ lemon, finely grated A mixture of melons Pick a selection of fruit, such as strawberries, kiwi fruit, pineapple, grapes, mango, cut into bite-sized chunks Melon baller Wooden skewers or thin straws DECOR ATION

6 strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced 2 slices kiwi fruit ½ melon ball 1 blueberry METHOD

✽ Beat the cream cheese, lemon curd, juice

and zest. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Cut the melons in half, remove the seeds and scoop out balls of melon using the melon baller. Thread the fruit onto the skewers or straws. ✽ Decorate the dip with strawberry scales and kiwi fins, and make an eye using half a melon ball and a blueberry. ✽

For more recipe inspiration download Annabel’s Essential Guide to Feeding Your Baby & Toddler app. Download the new version from the App Store now (£3.99) or visit annabelkarmel.com.

130 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

A delicious taste of homemade for BABIES Inspired by her popular cookbook recipes, Annabel’s wholesome organic purees are nutritious, convenient, and taste just like you’d make at home. www.annabelkarmel.com annabelkarmeluk @annabelkarmel

Babies who

LUNCH...

Rebecca Moore E XPLOR E S TH E WON DER S OF WE ANING AN D HOW TO E AT TO SUCCE SS

new study carried out by the baby and toddler food brand Organix, has revealed that when it comes to mealtimes, multiple babies equals far more than just multiple mess. Lunching together encourages babies to share experiences, improves social skills and makes a positive difference to parents and babies. To celebrate the recent findings, Organix have joined forces with psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin and Holly Bell, finalist in The Great British Bake Off and author of Recipes from a Normal Mum. Launching the ‘Babies Who Lunch’ campaign they’re encouraging parents up and down the country to get together and share their weaning experiences.

A

75%

BELIEVE THAT EATING WITH THEIR BABY MAKES A DIFFERENCE TO THEIR INTEREST IN FOOD The idea of social weaning is a concept psychologist Dr Rudkin welcomes.

“Food is a strong social glue, and eating together as a family or in the company of friends is strongly associated with healthier eating and an adventurous attitude towards

food. Food can be fun and eating together and sharing creates a positive experience from a young age.”

Holly found support and encouragement through meeting and eating with other mums and their little ones. “Spending a day together over lunch, we shared advice and tips with each other, and our babies were trying new foods together in a way they just would not do at home,” explains Holly. “I love it when we eat as a family, it’s a real shared experience.”

To download your free copy of Organix’s The Little Book of Weaning visit: organix.com/littlebookofweaning or get involved with #babieswholunch

TRY AT HOME… SIMPLE APPLE & PEAR PURÉE

By Holly Bell Sometimes in life the simple things are the best.

This purée is unashamedly easy and simple to prepare, but incredibly delicious.

All my boys have enjoyed this plain and also stirred into porridge. If you have a vanilla pod in the kitchen then split it open and scrape half the seeds in as you cook the fruit. Vanilla adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavour.

Makes about 15 ice-cube sized portions INGREDIENTS • 2 pears (about 160g) • 2 apples (about 150g)

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METHOD 1 Peel, de-seed and chop the fruit into 2cm chunks.

2 Place in a small saucepan with 8 tbsp cold water and simmer with the lid on for around 7 minutes until the fruit is tender and a knife can pass through it easily.

3 Allow to cool for 5 minutes then purée with a stick blender until smooth.

It keeps in the fridge in an airtight container for 3 days or freezes well for a month. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat on the hob or in the microwave until piping hot. Stir well and always check the heat of baby food before serving.

DEVELOPMENT

HOLLY’S TOP

Weaning Tips

1

Relax! You wouldn’t stress out about making some sandwiches so don’t over weaning a baby. It’s just food.

or, st and auth e Off finali ak h B nc sh lu ti ri ho Great B g #babiesw s supportin l’ el B ly ol H

2

Try your baby with their first taste of food when you know they’re at their best. Are they a morning baby or an evening baby?

They’re all different.

3

It will be messy! If you’re house proud then buy or borrow some pieces of fabric to pop under your baby’s high chair. That way you can chuck them straight into the washing machine after each meal.

4

Remember your baby’s tummy is tiny when you first start weaning. It’s easy to overfeed them. If they start to turn their head after a few spoons then they’ve had enough.

5

If you’re going down the purée route then make small portions of each new recipe.

There’s nothing more disheartening than making 50 ice cubes of lamb tagine to find your baby is more of a bolognese fan.

6

You don’t need lots of fancy equipment to wean your baby. A few weaning spoons, some bibs, a highchair, sippy cup and a stick blender have seen me through three children.

7

Very few people are born with wide and varied palates so don’t despair if your baby is slow to appreciate solid food. If they don’t like a new food, simply try it another day.

8

PHOTOGRAPHY: ORGANIX, ISTOCK

Babies really enjoy sitting and eating with other people at the table so do try and grab a bite to eat at the same time as feeding them. It takes the focus off them and can make for a more relaxed atmosphere, and hence more food actually being eaten!

91%

SAY THEIR BABY LOVES TO WATCH THEM EATING AND ENJOYS THE TIME TOGETHER

9

Offer up some finger foods and a spare spoon to your baby at mealtimes. Playing with food helps them accept new textures and colours – the first step to them feeding themselves.

10

A banana is pretty much the perfect on-the-go weaning food. Ready wrapped, easy to mash and great as finger food.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 133

Nanny Ash

COOKS

Ashley Campion TAKE S TOMATOE S TO A N EW LEVEL IN FOU R H E ALTHY R ECIPE S

Small animals are bouncing, flowers are blooming and your childrens’ appetites are just as healthy. Here are some light meals that will help keep your little ones full of energy for fun-filled days. The main ingredient is tomatoes: they contain vitamins A and C, and both help to build strong immune systems.

12 months+

INGREDIENTS • 900g potato • 280g flour • 1 large egg METHOD 1 Bake the potatoes at 175°C for 45 minutes until you can insert a fork with ease.

2 Pass the inside of the potatoes through a ricer or grate them.

3 Add the flour a little at a time, you may not need to use all the flour, just enough so that the mixture doesn’t stick to your hands.

4 Remove from the bowl and knead as you would bread for 5 minutes, folding it back on itself.

5 Roll into small balls roughly the size of a 20p.

6 Bring a pan of water to the boil and place your fluffy clouds in for 1 minute or until they float to the top.

134 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

9 months+

POPPING TOMMY SAUCE INGREDIENTS • 1 sliced onion • 1 crushed clove of garlic • Splash of rapeseed oil • 4 large chopped tomatoes • Handful of broccoli and peas • 2 tbsp spoons tomato purée • Small handful of chopped carrot • Small handful of sweetcorn • Splash of Worcestershire sauce

METHOD 1 In a large frying pan cook the onions and garlic in the oil until soft.

2 Add the chopped tomatoes and 200ml of water.

3 Bring to the boil and add the broccoli, peas, sweetcorn and carrot.

4 Leave this to cook until all the vegetables are tender.

5 Add your tomato purée and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Leave to simmer for 5 minutes adding water if needed.

6 Remove from heat and blend until it is a smooth sauce.

Getting your child to help with kneading the dough and rolling it into balls is a great way to help improve their fine motor skills.

FLUFFY CLOUDS

TOP TIP

FOOD

12 months+

SPLISH SPLASH SOUP

TOP TIP

INGREDIENTS • 1 small red onion • Splash of rapeseed oil • 1 crushed garlic clove • 500ml tomato juice • 350g chopped tomatoes • 2 large roasted bell peppers • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 3 tbsp fresh chopped basil • 1 mozzarella ball • 1 crusty loaf • Handful of sugarsnap peas

This mini flying omelette recipe is a fun way to spark new life into a school lunch box that is becoming all too predictable.

METHOD 1 Cook the onion and garlic with a splash of rapeseed oil over a low heat, until they are soft.

2 Add the tomato juice, chopped tomatoes, the soft flesh of the bell peppers and the balsamic vinegar. Bring to the boil, simmer for 2 minutes then remove from the heat.

3 Leave to cool to room temperature before mixing the basil and ripped chunks of mozzarella and crunchy, raw, sugarsnap peas.

Enjoy cold with a loaf of warm crusty bread.

12 months+

MINI FLYING OMELETTES 3 eggs makes about 4 mini omelettes

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

O.

UK

FIND

T• SA

Y

B • BA

INGREDIENTS FRESH • Tomatoes • Sweetcorn ORE RECIPE M • Spring onion • Spinach • Chives • Red peppers LO C • Grated cheese N D O N. PRECOOKED • Peas • Carrot • Soft onions • Broccoli • Green beans METHOD 1 Take a large muffin tin and wipe each well lightly with oil.

2 Whisk the eggs together.

3 Take the ingredients you would like to use and place them into the wells, making sure not to overfill them.

4 Pour the egg mixture over. Making sure you don’t fill them to the top.

5 Sprinkle with grated cheese.

6 Bake for 5 to 7 minutes at 170°C or until the centre is firm. Serve with a large mixed-leaf salad.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 135

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136 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

EDUCATION

Education

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

NEWS

EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM

If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector.

The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines.com/ independent-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.

FALSE START FOR EARLY YEARS

NO MATTER WHO WINS THE GENERAL ELECTION, SCHOOLS WILL HAVE LESS TO SPEND PER PUPIL OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS. THE INSTITUTE FOR FISCAL STUDIES (IFS) FOUND THAT SCHOOLS WILL FACE UP TO 12% IN REAL-TERMS CUTS OVER THE NEXT PARLIAMENT. DAY-TO-DAY SPENDING ON SCHOOLS HAS BEEN PROTECTED

BY THE COALITION GOVERNMENT, BUT AFTER THE ELECTION THAT IS SET TO CHANGE. THE IFS SUGGESTS A REAL-TERMS REDUCTION OF SEVEN PER CENT PER CHILD BY 2020.

A study has found that children in England are starting school unable to communicate effectively. The Early Intervention Foundation found that a fifth of children nationwide lacked the expected emotional, social and personal development by age five. The government has raised spending by £1 billion a year, recognising the importance of early years investment. “Getting the basics right early on is essential, so that all children can fulfil their potential,” said a Department for Education spokesperson.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 137

More than just

PLAY

DO WE U N DER E STIMATE TH E IM PORTANCE OF PL AY ?

Caroline Leeper LOOKS AT TH E EFFEC TS PL AY TIM E HAS ON YOU R BABY ’S DEVELOPM ENT AN D FUTU R E

ight from the first moment, it seems the most natural thing in the world to want to cuddle, coo, tickle, sing to, and – the age-old favourite – play peek-a-boo with your baby. It is instinctive and we’ve been doing it for centuries.

The resounding conclusion of a growing body of research is that we are doing the right thing. There is more recognition than ever before that play is fundamental to a baby’s development, health and general wellbeing.

Play is the primary means by which babies build physical, cognitive and social skills.

Although a tiny baby may not be capable of playing in the same way a toddler might, age-appropriate games and toys will help your baby reach important developmental milestones. Children learn to interact with the world around them by engaging with others and by imitating their actions, sounds and behaviours. Take, for example, the act of rolling a small, soft ball across the floor to your baby. The tactile ball can be picked up, squeezed and its physical shape understood.

Equally, your baby will be encouraged to move, maybe crawl, and to learn how their body works and how to control it. Also, the gentle flow of conversation that goes hand in hand with play is essential for your baby’s understanding of language.

R

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In many ways though, play can seem trivial, especially when it’s often cited that a child’s brain develops more rapidly in the first five years of its life than at any other point – surely parents should be making the most of these valuable years with educational activities?

But Dr Amanda Gummer, a leading expert in the field, makes a strong case for the links of playful, mental stimulation on brain development and success in later life. When the brain scans of babies who are stimulated

“Social development is correlated with academic achievement,” Dr Gummer continues. Meaning that a child starting school with well-developed social skills “will be much more likely to do well at GCSE level than a child who can read and write on entering school but who lacks those skills”.

Nature also gives us a helping hand. Babies are naturally inquisitive; they love to explore and seek out the new. But it’s important that parents are not too hard on themselves.

A CHILD STARTING SCHOOL WITH DEVELOPED SOCIAL SKILLS WILL BE MUCH MORE LIKELY TO DO WELL IN THEIR GCSES are compared to those of babies who are left alone for long periods of time the “physical difference in brain structures and density is shocking”. By the time children go to school, those with early mental stimulation have had a head start on their peers and are likely to remain in the lead. In those early years, parents therefore play a significant role in their child’s later success.

“The best kind of play is led by the child and encouraged by the parents,” says Dr Gummer.

“So children are supported in exploring the world at their own pace and in a way that makes most sense to them.”

It’s the carefree and varied forms of play, which involve plenty of social interaction, that remain the most valuable. So rekindle your inner child, because it’s playtime! bl

DEVELOPMENT Busy Shapes App

Bath Friends Turtle

An App for toddlers designed to expand their reasoning skills with puzzles using shapes, colours and challenges. £1.49 | itunes.apple.com

Bath time has never been so much fun. With an in-built motion sensor, sound effects and sing-a-long songs, this bath toy will teach your baby all about colours, animals and shapes as they splash. £15.99 | vtech.co.uk

Maya Organic Peppy Five Hand-crafted and great for counting and developing motor skills. £26.25 | iglookids.co.uk

Toys we

LOVE

Shusha – Zoo Toddlers can get creative and make real and imagined animals. Simply click the magnetic wooden body parts together and away you go (2+). £60 | thekidwho.eu

Alphabet Frieze This pretty ABC chart introduces even the tiniest of tots to the alphabet using recognisable objects. £14 | mrsbooth.com

Plus-Plus Midi Range An interactive building kit that promotes cognitive understanding and creativity. Plus it’s from Denmark – the same country that brought us LEGO. Need we say more?

From £9.99 to £36.99 | toyella.com

Jungly Tails Book Get to know the animals by their tails.

Packed full of different colours and textures, this soft book is perfect for inquisitive babies and it has a carry-loop for car trips to deepest darkest Peru. £10 | jellycat.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 139

EDUCATION

MEET THE HEAD How long have you been at St Benedict’s School?

I have been working at St Benedict’s for six years. In my second year I was head of netball across the Junior and Senior School. For the past five years I have been head of Junior School PE and Games.

How would you describe the sporting ethos of your school?

We aim to inspire excellence in our A teams but at the same time nurture a culture of inclusion and participation for all pupils, so that everyone at the school achieves their potential. We achieve this by encouraging and helping each pupil and by fostering a partnership with parents and children. We promote values of

140 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

ALISON YATES St Benedict’s Junior School We talk sporting success with the head of PE and Games at St Benedict’s Junior School respect for pupils to hold for themselves and towards others, and we provide opportunities for spiritual growth.

Does the school have a long history of sporting achievement and how is it maintained?

St Benedict’s School has set a very high standard throughout the years in our core sports of cricket, fencing, hockey, netball and rugby. Our pupils have triumphed at local, national and international level.

We strive to maintain this level by providing expert specialised coaching and the best possible facilities, while looking to be progressive in all areas.

How do you help ensure every pupil in your care achieves their full sporting potential?

We provide excellent specialised coaching and we offer encouragement and exposure to lots of different sports. The school has very good links with local clubs such as Ealing Hockey Club, Ealing Cricket Club, Grasshoppers Netball Club, Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club and Saxon Fencing Club which gives our pupils the opportunity to further their sporting interests outside of St Benedict’s, as well as getting in lots of practice and gaining as much experience as possible.

What feedback do you receive from parents?

I have a close working relationship with pupils and

parents within the Junior School.

I see parents on a regular basis, especially at the games field and at fixtures. I receive constructive feedback from parents in regards to team performances, tournaments and the day-today organisation of the Physical Education Department. I am very approachable and will always try my best to resolve any problems if they should occur.

Where do you see the sporting future of St Benedict’s?

Sport is an integral part of the St Benedict’s mission of ‘Teaching a way of living’ – helping pupils deal with life and all the challenges that it brings. The school is continually developing and improving the sporting facilities, coaching standards and inclusion for all pupils. I am truly passionate about the school and look forward to experiencing some amazing sporting opportunities in the coming years. bl St Benedict’s Junior School, 5 Montpelier Ave, London W5 2XP T: 020 8862 2050 W: stbenedicts.org.uk

For For boys boys aged aged 33 to to 8 8 years years old old For boys aged 3 to 8 years old For boys aged 3Street to 8 years old 27 Edge 27 Edge Street Kensington, London 7PN 27 Edge StreetW8 Kensington, London W8 7PN Tel: 020London 7727 9090 Kensington, W8 7PN Tel: 7727 9090 27020 Edge Street Fax: 020 7727 9090 9988 Tel: 020 7727 Fax: 020London 7727 9988 Kensington, W8 7PN Fax: 020 7727 9988 Tel: 020 7727 9090 Fax: 020 7727 9988

Now enrolling

Limited places available For a school tour please contact Miss Ollie o.baskett@ghs.gemsedu.co.uk

The Hampshire School C H E L S E A

EARLY YEARS, PRE-PREPARATORY & PREPARATORY

15 Manresa Road, London. SW3 6NB

Tel: 020 7352 7077

Building confidence & character since 1928

www.ths.westminster.sch.uk

St Benedict’s, Ealing Independent Catholic Day School Teaching a way of living Co-education from 3 years through to 18

NURSERY and RECEPTION 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

‘The Nursery and Reception classes offer children an exceptionally rich, exciting and stimulating curriculum.’

ISI Inspection Report November 2012

OPEN MORNINGS NURSERY: 28 April, 4 June RECEPTION: 21 May, 9 June T: 020 8862 2254 E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk We respect the dignity of all and welcome children of other faiths.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 141

142 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

EDUCATION

CHOOSING A SCHOOL Charlot te Phillips, CONTRIBUTOR TO THE GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE, ADVISE S PL AN NING AH E AD

hen it comes to selecting a nursery or pre-school, Londoners start at a distinct logistical disadvantage.

While the national squeeze on school places has been widely reported, the battle is particularly ferocious within the M25.

Start by doing your due diligence. Ask locals what they think. Trawl playgrounds, libraries, cafés, even supermarkets – all will offer rich pickings in the way of research.

Visit possible schools early and, if your mind isn’t made up, visit often. In any small school, the feel – welcoming, friendly or otherwise – will be determined by the person at the top, so ensure you meet the headteacher.

Don’t, in contrast, be too quick to judge schools on appearances, bearing in mind that in London, space will often be at a premium.

It’s how the environment is used that matters.

Very young children don’t need rolling acres but a place that feels like a home from home.

Little touches – one pre-school has boxes with a favourite toy the very young can hold during nappy changing – can make all the difference.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

W

QUESTION THE ENVIRONMENT Is there plenty to do in a way that engages everyone? Can the staff explain how they support physical development or communication skills? And even better, can you see proof of this from their rapport with the children?

Are there enticing boxes of objects waiting to be taken out, examined and explored; well-stocked but clearly well-read shelves of books?

Are the children encouraged to enjoy lots of messy play with sand and water? Do they revel in the outside – or is that row of gumboots suspiciously free of mud?

Do the quietest children get as much encouragement as the most boisterous? Are staff talking to each other over their heads or kneeling to engage the tiniest toddler face to face? How do parents find out what their child has been up to that day?

PLACE ALLOCATION There are also different factors to take into account depending on whether you are thinking about a state or independent education. With some faith schools, place allocation is down to which deity you worship, how regularly and where. With most state schools, however, what counts is the distance between home and school – and if that school is heavily oversubscribed, it’s more than likely to be calculated to the very last inch.

Just because the child next door was successful last year, doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll sail in when it’s your turn. Like shares, catchment areas may go up or down each year

on getting pupils into highly selective senior schools? And what pressure does it involve?

What happens to pupils who are struggling to keep up? Is the school good at ensuring they don’t feel second best, or an expert on dropping a series of ever heavier hints that your child “might be happier elsewhere”.

You’ll undoubtedly be left with the impression that without registering at birth, it’s virtually impossible to gain a place at the most favoured London schools. It’s often the case, however, that families register for more than one school, a process that peaks in reception.

Once the first round of places has been offered and filled, waiting lists can shrink.

VISIT SCHOOLS EARLY AND, IF YOUR MIND ISN’T MADE UP, VISIT OFTEN, AND ENSURE YOU MEET THE HEAD depending on how many families apply, which streets they live in and how many are siblings.

Many, though not all, schools will give priority to younger brothers and sisters.

So if you’re moving into a London borough, it’s worth working backwards, finding the primary school you’d like your child to go to and then ensuring that your home is well within the catchment area. The closer you are to the school, the more likely the offer of a place – though it’s worth calling to see how often your address would have secured you the golden ticket over the last three years.

With independent schools, distance is less of a factor than popularity. But here, too, it’s worth thinking about what is going to make your child happy. Few adults enjoy a long commute and children are no different.

And even if you move outside the normal admissions cycle, all is not lost. One of the advantages of London is that the high flyers it attracts frequently flap off to other locations with their families, leaving school places that need to be filled – often at short notice.

Even ultra-desirable schools need to keep their pupil numbers up, so if you set your heart on one particular establishment, persistence can, eventually, pay off. Just be sure that the school of your dreams is a match for your real life child. goodschoolsguide.co.uk gsgexpertschoolsconsultants.co.uk

BACK TO THE FUTURE You also need to consider the transition at seven or eight plus. Few pre-preps are focused solely on academics – but what happens later?

If you opt for a standalone pre-prep, where do pupils go afterwards? If the pre-prep is part of a four to 11 or four to 13 school, is the focus

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 143

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WEE ONES DAY NURSERY 4 St Ann’s Crescent, WEE ONES DAY NURSERY Wandsworth SW18 2LR 4 St Ann’s Crescent, T: +44(0) 208 870 7729 Wandsworth SW18 2LR E: enquiries@wee-ones.co.uk T: +44(0) 208 870 7729 www.wee-ones.co.uk E: enquiries@wee-ones.co.uk www.wee-ones.co.uk

• Full time day care from 8 months to 5 years Full time dayTeaching care from •• Montessori from 2 ½ years 8 months to 5 years • Open 7.30am - 6.30pm • Montessori Teaching from 2 ½ years • Newly renovated Baby Room • Open 7.30am - 6.30pm • Fantastic Outdoor facilities • Newly renovated Baby Room • Good daily balance of play, • Fantastic Outdoor learning and socialfacilities interaction •• Good daily balance of play, Wide selection of flexible learning social interaction childcareand options • Wide selection of flexible Please speak to our Registrar, childcare options

Phillipa Straker Nesbit, to find out more we provide.

Pleaseabout speakthe to childcare our Registrar, Phillipa Straker Nesbit, to find out more about the childcare we provide.

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l little house of

Science www.littlehouseofscience.com

For children who love science and numbers, Little House of Science is a place for children to learn, experiment, explore and play! www.littlehouseofscience.com T: 0800 092 1062 info@littlehouseofscience.com

144 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

13:05

little Science

Age 3-4 Age 4-7 Age 8+ (Big Science)

little maths Age 2-3 Age 3-4

little Discovery Age 6-12 months Age 12-18 months

OUT AND ABOUT

mini

AGENDA

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

DUPLO® Valley at Legoland LEGOLAND Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY 0871 222 2001 legoland.co.uk Head to Splash Safari and Drench Towers for wet play fun.

Admission: prices vary.

See website for opening times.

Sensational Butterflies EAST LAWN, NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk Learn about the stunning butterflies and enjoy games and interactive displays.

Admission: under-fours go free.

Adult, child and concession £6.50 or family £22.

Until Sunday 13 September, 10am to 5.50pm.

Zippos Circus OMG FINSBURY PARK London N4 1EE 0871 210 2100 zippos.co.uk

Take a splash in Duplo Valley

Laugh with classic clown troupe The Rastellis and marvel at Timbuktu Tumblers’ acrobatics, plus fabulous equestrian acts.

Admission: prices vary, undertwos go free without a seat.

Thursday 23 to Tuesday 28 April. See website for details.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 145

Enjoy a visit to the magical In the Night Garden Live

Gambado Chelsea

Ahoy!

Sea Dragon Kingdom

Canalway Cavalcade

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM Romney Rd, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF 020 8858 4422 rmg.co.uk

SEA LIFE LONDON AQUARIUM County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, SE1 7PB 0871 663 1678 sealife.co.uk/london

LITTLE VENICE Paddington, London W9 07979 676461 waterways.org.uk

Bring along your little sailors to the recently opened new gallery dedicated to undersevens at the National Maritime Museum. Polar exploration, pirates and a host of other maritime themes are brought to life in this playful gallery.

Admission: free.

Open daily, 10am to 5pm.

Enter Sea Dragon Kingdom to see the new collection of mystical sea creatures. Visitors can spot Weedy Sea Dragons, the curious Alligator pipefish and colourful Yellow seahorses.

Admission: from £18.36 for adults and £13.52 for children.

Open seven days a week from 10am. Last entry at 6pm.

All Aboard

See Saw

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB 020 7565 7299 ltmuseum.co.uk

COACH HOUSE Orleans House Gallery, Riverside, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 020 8831 6000 richmond.gov.uk/orleans_ house_gallery

The new play zone invites kids to get in the driver’s seat of a bus, sail the Thames Nipper and fly the Emirates Air Line. Plus babies will love Baby DLR. Admission: children go free.

Adults pay £16 for unlimited admission for a year.

Saturday to Thursday: 10am to 6pm, Fridays: 11am to 6pm.

146 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

Under-fives can learn, play and explore in multi-sensory weekly sessions with music, soft play, activities, stories and rhyme time in a relaxed environment.

No booking necessary.

Admission: £6 and £3 for siblings aged six months or over.

Fridays, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Check out the colourful narrowboats adorned with flowers and bunting for this annual celebration. The threeday party includes shows, music and boat trips. Plus stalls, food and real ale for grown-ups.

Admission: free, though there may be a small charge for various activities.

Saturday 2 to Bank Holiday Monday 4 May. Check website for timings.

Creepy Crawlies Month at Gambado GAMBADO CHELSEA 7 Station Court, Townmead Road, London SW6 2PY 0207 384 1635 gambado.com/clubs/chelsea Creepy Crawlies Month will include some very special guests slithering and scuttling around. As well as storytimes, face painting and arts and crafts – all with a crawly twist!

Admission: prices depend on age and session times, see website for details.

Open Monday to Thursday, 9.30am to 6pm and Friday to Sunday, 9.30am to 6.30pm.

Covent Garden May Fayre and Puppet Festival Dunkirk Little Ships Festival IN THE GARDEN OF ST PAUL’S CHURCH Bedford Street, WC2E 9ED alternativearts.co.uk

LONDON'S ROYAL DOCKS 0207 511 5086 londonsroyaldocks.com

That’s the way to do it! Covent Garden comes alive for its annual May Fayre and Puppet Festival with Punch and Judy Professors. There is also folk music, dancers, clowns, jugglers and stalls to enjoy.

Admission: free.

Sunday 10 May, 10.30am to 5.30pm.

Over 20 Dunkirk Little Ships will gather in London’s Royal Docks ahead of their Return to France to mark the 75th anniversary of the Dunkirk Evacuations. Step on board or take a twilight trip on the Silver Queen.

Admission: boat trips cost £5 for children and £10 for adults.

Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May.

OUT AND ABOUT

Canaway Cavalcade London Transport Museum’s All Aboard

Get close to the ring-tail lemurs at London Zoo

Exploring at Ahoy!

In The Night Garden Live Garden Explorers at Kentish Town City Farm RICHMOND OLD DEER PARK AND THE O2 Richmond TW9 2SF Peninsula Square SE10 0DX 0333 300 0023 nightgardenlive.com

In The Night Garden Live takes place in an all-weather, purpose-built inflatable showdome for a magical theatrical experience.

Admission: from £12.50 to £33.

The O2: Thursday 28 May to Saturday 13 June.

Richmond: Saturday 20 June to Saturday 4 July.

10am, 12pm, 2pm and 4pm.

A royal adventure ELTHAM PALACE AND GARDENS Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London SE9 5QE 020 8294 2548 english-heritage.org.uk Eltham Palace has reopened after a major revamp. The wooden play area includes a plane, mountains and maps.

Admission: child £7.80, adult £13 and family £33.80. English Heritage members go free.

10am to 6pm, Sunday to Thursday.

KENTISH TOWN CITY FARM 1 Cressfield Close, off Grafton Road, London NW5 4BN 020 7916 5421 ktcityfarm.org.uk Children under five are invited to come along to this fun drop-in session to learn how to plant flowers and vegetables, as well as seeing the animals.

Admission: £3 for the session.

Entry to the farm is free.

Tuesdays during term time, 10am to 12pm.

In with the Lemurs ZSL LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY 0344 225 1826 zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo Visitors can get closer than ever to 15 ring-tail lemurs and one black and white ruffed lemur in the new walk-though exhibit at ZSL London Zoo. Little ones will love watching the unique primates leaping, climbing and lounging all around.

Admission: prices vary. See website for further details.

10am to 6pm daily, last entry at 5pm.

Loose Parts Workshops WELSH CHAPEL, CLAPHAM JUNCTION, ST MARY'S CHURCH, PUTNEY thebuilditworkshop.com Run by award-winning The Build It Workshop, Loose Parts are construction workshops aimed at age 16 months to two-and-ahalf. During 45-minute sessions, tots explore materials like bricks, magnets and bolts.

Admission: £9.50.

Clapham Junction on Wednesdays and Putney on Thursdays. See website for further details and to book.

Messy play at Shoe Lane Library SHOE LANE LIBRARY Hill House, Little New Street, London EC4A 3JR 020 7583 7178 cityoflondon.gov.uk Toddlers get messy at arty sessions at the Artizan Street Library and Community Centre.

There are also regular rhyme time, baby bounce and storytime sessions at the East London library.

Admission: free.

Thursday 28 May, 10.30am to 11.30am.

Meet Ben and Holly at Lee Valley Park Farms

Mini Moles at the Museum of London

LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF 01992 892 781 visitleevalley.org.uk

MUSEUM OF LONDON 150 London Wall London EC2Y 5HN 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk

Nick Jnr’s Ben and Holly will be meeting and greeting fans.

There’s a fab new outdoor play area too, plus cuddly sheep, rabbits, rare breed pigs, llamas and meerkats.

Admission: under-twos go free.

Children £8.50 and adults £9.50.

Various times between 10am and 5pm on Sunday 14 June.

This session is for babies aged six months to walking and their carers and includes sensory, hands-on, play-based activities for you and your baby. The session is free but you do need to book to secure a place.

Admission: free.

Wednesdays during term time, 11am to 12pm.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 147

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“By far the best agency I have ever dealt with. Everything was sorted within a fantastic time, every detail we wanted was catered to”

Babycare you can trust

Babycare you can trust

Deearna’s Maternity Agency is one of the UK’s top providers of babycare.

Run by a maternity nurse with more than 23 years experience, Deearna’s we guarantee only the best: • Maternity Nurses • Night Nannies • Twins and Multiples Specialists • Trouble-Shooters • Sleep Trainers • Feeding Consultants

Maternity Agency is one of the UK’s top providers of babycare.

Run by a maternity nurse with more than 23 years experience, we guarantee only the best:

• Maternity Nurses • Night Nannies • Twins and Multiples Specialists • Trouble-Shooters • Sleep Trainers • Feeding one of Consultants the UK’s top providers

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“By far the best agency Maternity I have ever Deearna’s Agency is dealt with everything was sorted Run by a maternity nurse with more than 23 years experience, we guarantee only the best: “By far the best agency I have ever within a• fantastic Maternitytime,every Nurses detail maternity agency dealt with everything was sorted we wanted was catered to” • Night Nannies • Twins and Multiples Specialists • Trouble-Shooters • Sleep Trainers • Feeding Consultants

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148 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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OUT AND ABOUT 1 YE AR F OR

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Queen Elizabeth Park

Unicorn Theatre

ODEON odeon.co.uk/newbies ODEON Newbies is for parents with new babies, who want to watch the latest films without worrying about disturbing everyone else. The volume is slightly reduced and it’s a little bit lighter, so parent and baby can sit back and relax.

Performance times vary from venue to venue.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ZSLLONDONZOO, PHOTOSHELTER, MANUEL HARLAN

Planeta Ka UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com From the makers of sell-out Sensacional, Planeta Ka is a sensory spectacular for under-threes. Tots discover a new environment using sound, textures and visual effects.

There are secret spaces to hide, and places to jump and slide.

Admission: £10, including up to two adults per child.

Thursday 7 May to Thursday 4 June. Performance times vary, see website for details.

Big Lunch in the Park QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK Stratford, London E20 2ST 0800 0722 110 queenelizabetholympic park.co.uk Families young and old will be gathering for Big Lunch events all over the country this weekend. So pack a picnic, gather friends and neighbours, and head down to the Queen Elizabeth Park for a day of fun activities.

Admission: free.

Sunday 7 June, midday to 4pm.

Buggy Belles CLISSOLD PARK AND HIGHBURY FIELDS 07980 727 528 buggy-belles.com Get back into shape with a fun buggy fitness class. Sessions are suitable from six weeks after birth (after your postnatal check). The safe and effective outdoor workout includes cardio pushing and stepping, resistance training and that all-important core stability.

Admission: £10 per drop-in class. Or pay £40 for six sessions or £70 for 10 sessions.

See website for details.

Little London guides you through the next stage of the adventure that is childhood – from nursery, first trips away from home and the most exciting activities and events in and around the capital, to the hottest holidays, coolest kidswear and interiors ideas. PLUS expert advice on your child’s health and education.

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babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 149

A SELEC TION OF

LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

Groups & Classes

ACTIVITIES

150 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

THE NEST NURTURING YOU FROM BUMP TO BEYOND

NURTURING A LIFETIME OF MUSIC

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 to Pregnancy Yoga, both aimed at improving flexibility and strength in preparation for birth, plus a number of brilliant Mum and Baby classes. The Nest also has pre and postnatal educational workshops including HypnoBirthing, First Aid and Breastfeeding.

More than a professional support, The Nest is a community of like-minded women sharing in the same experience.

07807 882519 info@thenestmaternity.co.uk thenestmaternity.co.uk

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

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 parties, private and holiday classes, nursery and after-school sessions can all be arranged. Kiddikicks is also 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 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

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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!

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

OFFERS

Luxe Draped Back Dress, £170, Keungzai.

Necklace, £220, Pebble London.

GET MORE… The very best competitions and exclusive offers for Baby London readers

WIN A MAXI-COSI AXISS CAR SEAT WITH METANIUM For one lucky reader, Metanium is giving away a MaxiCosi Axiss car seat (£200) and a sample of new Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion; 10 runners up can win a Busy Baby Planner (£9.99). Using a barrier ointment or lotion will help protect your little one from nappy rash. With a unique double action formula to provide daily protection from nappy rash, Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment is gentle enough to use every day and at each nappy change. It’s now also available in a handy spray which protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash. metanium.co.uk

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KIT OUT FOR LESS! The luxury lifestyle emporium cuckooland.com are offering 15% off when quoting CUCKOOBABY15. The website showcases an original collection of stylishly quirky kid’s bedroom furniture and homeware, from manufacturers and designers around the world. In addition to the charming range of children’s beds – including those designed to look like treehouses and space rockets – Cuckooland also sell playhouses, toys, outdoor games and bedroom accessories. cuckooland.com

WIN A MERINO KIDS™ GO GO BAG™ The award-winning baby and toddler sleepwear and clothing company Merino Kids have been helping families sleep safely all around the world for over a decade.

The Merino Kids range is made from the world’s finest merino wool. Better than any other material, merino wool ‘breathes’ and wicks moisture away from skin, helping to regulate body temperature and keep your precious new addition warm in the cold and cool in the heat.

The Merino Kids Go Go Bag™ is the original 100% superfine merino wool sleep bag, the natural choice to provide you and your little ones the best night’s sleep. The prize is available in either Honey Oat Melange or Raspberry. merinokids.co.uk

ENTER ONLINE AT BABYLONDON.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS 152 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

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WHY EVERY BABY IS BORN WITH A SILVER SPOON The arrival of a brother or sister for HRH Prince George will be celebrated the world over and the next member of the Cambridge family can look forward to a life of wealth and privilege. Being born with a “silver spoon” suggests an easy life but of course life isn’t so simple.

Would any parent really wave a magic wand and choose a royal upbringing? Would they swap playtime in the park without a camera lens in sight for the opportunity to travel the world?

When you’re a brand loved by parents, you always want to know how they think which is why Sudocrem Care & Protect asked parents to consider the advantages and disadvantages of being born with a “silver spoon”.

The results were fascinating. For most parents, the greatest privilege wouldn’t be fame and fortune but the chance to use their power and influence to make a difference to others. The biggest disadvantage is lack of privacy and spontaneity.

Would they change places? The answer is no. It seems that an ordinary life has a lot going for it and the greatest gift of all is to be born into a caring and protective family!

“When you’re a parent it’s hard not to feel competitive. But making things better usually means providing a reassuring hug and as they get older being around to listen, it isn’t about lots of toys or exotic holidays. It’s about being there when they need you.” Says Nick Lang, Senior Brand Manager for Sudocrem

“

In 2013 Sudocrem launched Care and Protect, the latest addition to the Sudocrem nappy range and celebrated the birth of HRH Prince George by commissioning Theo Fennell to create a bracelet in 18ct gold with the iconic Sudocrem pot as a tiny charm. The bracelet was auctioned for EACH (East Anglian Children’s Hospice) and raised thousands of pounds for one of the Duchess of Cambridge’s favourite charities. With the next royal baby due in April, comes the chance to do something different. In the spirit of giving, Sudocrem asked silversmith Christopher Hamilton, to create a solid silver spoon which will be offered to 100 babies born in the same month.

Each spoon is hand crafted in solid silver, engraved with the baby’s initials and delivered in a lined black box with a card of authentication.

The bracelet was a unique way of celebrating the birth of Prince George and we wanted to do the same again; create something special and memorable. Not every baby is born with a silver spoon but every baby is special and it’s our way of saying that.

Nick Lang, Senior Brand Manager for Sudocrem.

”

To be in with the chance of receiving one of the Sudocrem Care & Silver spoons, simply email your name and address along with your baby’s initials and date of birth to : AprilBaby@satellitepr.com Winners will be drawn on 30/05/15 and selected at random.

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 | MAY/JUN 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. The collection is well-known for its super-sweet little party dresses, and 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 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 activities, as well as some special occasionwear. 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 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

SHOPPING

ELFIE LONDON

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 still 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 pop-up 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 trendsetter 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 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 | MAY/JUN 2015 | 157

your shopping

emporium

19 Sheen Road (opposite Waitrose car park) Richmond TW9 1AD www.richmondpractice.co.uk mail@richmondpractice.co.uk

The Fine Cotton Company Soft to the touch, kind on your conscience

Organic bedding & accessories for children & babies

www.thefinecottoncompany.com

158 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

emporium

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0845 0038301 BumpaliciousMaternity.co.uk 10% discount quote London14 at checkout

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 159

EMPORIUM

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The Breastfeeding Butterfly is a great alternative to breastfeeding tops, it provides cover for your breast, post-pregnancy stomach, side and back. Feeding in a calm and cosy environment your baby can maintain eye contact with you.

Other products from Faye & Lou: Rainbow Muslins have an extraordinary range of uses and come in bright, eye-catching colours which are stimulating for babies. Where white muslins can become dull and grey with time, Rainbow Muslins stay bright and colourful.

Cozio extra large muslin squares are perfect for swaddling your baby.

They can also be used for the following: burp cloth, sheet, play mat, changing mat, towel, lightweight blanket and much more.

Faye & Lou are experienced mothers and expert nannies creating products dedicated to making a mother’s life easier.

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Handpicked Luxury Nursery Furniture & Beautiful Baby Accessories for your Little Ones

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160 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

They can also be used for the following: burp cloth, sheet, play mat, changing mat, towel, lightweight blanket and much more.

Faye & Lou are experienced mothers and expert nannies creating products dedicated to making a mother’s life easier.

Nursery Furniture

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babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2015 | 161

BUSINESS

Twins Antony and Richard

INSPIRE

ANTONY AND RICHARD JOSEPH

What was the inspiration behind Joseph Joseph?

Richard: We had both just embarked on our careers, Antony as a designer and I was doing a business masters at Cambridge.

Our father asked us to design a range of chopping boards for our family-run glass factory which he managed when we were in our 20s – and the designs did really well. That is how the idea to create Joseph Joseph was born.

Where do you live and work?

A: We live on the same street in Wandsworth, London and we are both in our office and studio in Southwark every day.

With such attractive products, who’s the brains and who’s the beauty?

Anthony: We definitely play to our strengths: Richard, business and me, design. But we both have a say in how everything is run, the company works better because of this. So I guess we’re both brains and beauty in our own way!

Describe a typical day?

R: When you run your own company, there isn’t necessarily a typical day. Generally though, we’re in the office keeping up with everything that is going on, from new product development to analysing recent launches and planning for future ones, we like to keep busy!

How is it working with your twin?

R: Surprisingly easy, we have always done everything together.

A: In terms of the business, we each manage different areas, but generally speaking it’s great to be able to work with someone that knows you so well.

How do you achieve a good work/life balance?

R: It’s important to make time for yourself and your families as they’re the ones that keep

162 | MAY/JUN 2015 | babylondon.co.uk

We talk colour and kitchens with the founders of Joseph Joseph you sane at the end of a long day!

Leave work at the office – it isn’t always possible, but it’s a good place to start.

l be with Colour obsessed? You wil life r you in s the Nest 9 Plu

Market is especially inspirational, and not only because of the food, we get so many ideas for new colours and products.

As you’re always in the kitchen, who’s the better cook?

R: We’re both going to say ourselves, we're very competitive.

Do you have a favourite colour?

R: It depends on the mood, but currently I am favouring blue.

A: Burnt orange is a colour I am very keen on at the moment – I might even try and work it into a new collection somewhere.

Will you ever expand into other rooms in the house? We’re hoping the nursery…

A: No plans to leave the kitchen just yet, but if we get a great idea, we will definitely go for it.

We recently branched out with different designs like our Totem bin, which was very well received.

Out of all your products what’s a must for a family kitchen?

A: Currently it’s the LockBlock – in terms of safety, there isn’t anything else on the market like it. It’s a knife block that has been designed so only an adult-sized hand can release the knives. It’s perfect for families.

Which spots in the capital have stolen your heart?

We love the Southwark area, there is so much going on that it never gets boring. Borough

Any future plans you can share?

R: It’ll have to be a “watch this space” we’re afraid!

ction?

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