Baby London May/June 2018

blondon b MAY/JUNE 2018

Eddie Redmayne On the theory of fatherhood

SHOULD YOU FEED YOUR BABY ON DEMAND?

Mother

BABYLONDON.CO.UK

Travel light

We review the world’s smallest pushchair

WHAT TO EAT TO BOOST YOUR BABY’S BRAIN POWER

Maternity fashion Your ultimate shopping edit

Carole Middleton

How to celebrate new arrivals

WIN A

LUXUR BUGGYY

NATURE

• THE BEST ECO BRANDS FOR YOU AND YOUR BABY • CONSCIOUS CHOICES – FROM GREAT GETAWAYS TO GREEN GIFTS • KEEP CALM DURING LABOUR WITH HYPNOBIRTHING £3.99

holiday?

have it all with the new bugaboo fox

say ‘YES!’ the new bugaboo fox is here to help you say ‘YES!’ to all the things you love to do visit bugaboo.com/fox to find out how © copyright Bugaboo International BV

Stokke® Xplory® Designed by: Bjørn Refsum and Hilde Angelfoss. Design development in cooperation with K8 Industridesign AS. Product development in cooperation with Bård Eker Industrial Design AS.

H E I G H T A D J U S TA B L E TO B R I N G YO U R BA B Y C LO S E R TO YO U S TO K K E ® X P LO RY ® The ultimate expression of our brand philosophy, every inch of our signature stroller is designed to bring your baby close for bonding and connection. With pioneering height adjustability, Stokke® Xplory® raises your child higher, promoting interaction while you explore the world together. stokke.com

CONTENTS MAY/JU N E 2018

40

Actor E ddie Re gg ing dmayn fi s a e talks n ath erh

79

PHOTOGRAPHY: SARAH WINBORN

FEATURES

50 THE THEORY OF FATHERHOOD London-born actor Eddie Redmayne fills us in on work and parenting life 54 IT’S EASY BEING GREEN The eco-friendly baby businesses dedicated to giving back 64 “MOTHERHOOD HAS TAUGHT ME A LOVE LIKE NO OTHER” Model and blogger Hannah StraffordTaylor invites us into her London home 70 BEHIND THE BRAND: CHILDRENSALON Danielle Wilkins pops into the HQ of the designer clothing empire 79 PARTY TIME: NAMING DAY Carole Middleton shares her tips for celebrating your new arrival 84 AND HOW’S DAD? The rise in fathers experiencing postnatal depression

25

92 AND BREATHE… What is hypnobirthing anyway? Here’s all you need to know 120 THE BEST START Your guide to understanding the different nursery options available

STYLE

40 NATURAL SELECTION Have baby’s springtime style edit sorted with these new-season neutrals 61 WORKING GIRL Desk style has never looked so good

SHOPPING

21

BABY LONDON LOVES Why these bootie beauties should be top of your shopping list 25 SHOP THE THEMES Whatever your nursery style, celebrate the incoming warmer days with spring’s newest offerings t a s ring in r ste ith these ne seas n ieces

80 BY ROYAL DELIVERY Clothes, gifts and toys fit for a little prince or princess 102 YOURS TO KEEP Beautiful furniture that’ll grow as your baby does

FOOD & TRAVEL

105 FOOD NEWS The latest offerings for your little diners 106 FRESH FLAVOURS Get baby’s weaning off to a healthy start with these tasty and seasonal recipes 111 TRAVEL NEWS The newest products and escapes for young families 112 GOING GREEN The holiday destinations making a mark with their eco credentials 116 POSTCARD FROM QUINTA DO LAGO Rebecca Moore reports back from Portugal with her niece, Ruby

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 5

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

112

Publisher Caroline Scott Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Digital Media Manager James Dobson Marketing & Events Manager Georgie Walton Marketing & Events Executive Meagan Hyett

REGULARS

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Head of Market Lyndal Beeton Sales Executives Caroline Kimber, Jessica Knibbs

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small DATES FOR YOUR DIARY What’s going on in the capital this May and June WIN! THIS PUSHCHAIR Tutti Bambini is giving away a stylish Arlo travel system MY ESSENTIALS TV host Alex Jones chats newfound motherhood and becoming an author THE GREAT OUTDOORS Emma O’Donovan shares her favourite nature-inspired reads INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION Ethical-living advocate Emma Ross vlogs about life with her two boys MATERNITY FASHION NEWS Do bump style right – here’s how TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new and improved in baby kit, plus, we review the GB Pockit stroller HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS What’s new for mum and baby in the world of wellbeing

106

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Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Finance Director Vicki Gavin

e

nes n the rea it first ti e therh in r thirties

87 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert shares her advice on boosting your unborn baby’s brainpower 89 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Clare Byam-Cook discusses breastfeeding on demand 91 DIARY OF A MUM Baby Robin has turned into a little chatterbox – that makes two of them, says Martha Alexander 94 MEET THE EXPERTS Our healthcare professionals answer your burning questions about pregnancy, birth and beyond 97 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt of The Bump Class discuss what your options are if baby is breech 98 THE REVIEW We put the best breast pumps to the test 101 INTERIOR NEWS Stylish updates and inspiring finds to make your house a home 119 EDUCATION NEWS The latest from London classrooms and beyond 123 MINI AGENDA What’s going on in and around London over the next two months 130 INSPIRE Talking business with Catherine Gazzoli, founder of baby food brand Piccolo

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

Baby London Print ISSN 2040-8552 Online ISSN 2059-982X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2018 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHER: SARAH WINBORN MODEL: CECILY Cecily wears cotton-blend dress, £72, Stella McCartney Kids at Harrods. Cotton towel, £14, Numero 74 at Smallable.

The novelty hood, the wooden buttons… everything about this jacket is adorable!

Cotton-blend knitted jacket £35, boden.com

Liewood hanging pram toy £22.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

EDITORS

LETTER

Limited-edition personalised necklace £79, mercimamanboutique.com

REBECCA MOORE, EDITOR

Join me online…

Babylondonmagazine

@Baby_London

@babylondonmagazine

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Baby mist £12, fifiandfriends.co.uk

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

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Cotton playmat £46.46, littleheart.se

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Cotton leggings £20, tobiasandthebear.com

with the help of an epidural and a big push by my rather stoic mother. The medical world has changed a bit since then, so on p.97 we have super sisters Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle of The Bump Class telling us all about breech babies and what you can expect if you find yourself in that situation.

And speaking of new arrivals, at Baby London HQ, we have been waiting – perhaps not so patiently – for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s third delivery with anticipation.

We’ve also grabbed our crystal ball to predict a few ‘royal’ baby buys on p.80. And if you are exploring the idea of hypnobirthing for your labour, just as Kate Middleton is said to be, we have all you need to know on p.92.

And last but by no means least, a huge congratulations to our editor in chief Kate Freud, who welcomed her third baby, Willow Grace, on 23 March. Weighing 7lb 1oz, she joins older sister Georgia and big brother Jago. I’ll be keeping Kate’s seat toasty until she returns – hopefully with some of her sanity in tact!

ND

UK

Cotton and wood rattle £19, camcamcopenhagen.com

From turning old cereal boxes into garages for my Barbie’s cars and running around the garden heroically saving caterpillars from “extinction” by rehousing them in old butter containers, to – as a fully fledged adult – having an unnerving obsession with Recycling Day and frantically turning off lights, it’s safe to say I’ve always tried to do my bit when it comes to being conscious of the world we live in.

The fact that the nappies once used on my somewhat smaller bottom are still sitting in landfill, I have to say, does make me question some of my own lifestyle choices. I’m not about to set up camp to live a wholly selfsufficient life, but this issue we’ve decided to take a step back to appreciate this fabulous earth we’re lucky enough to live on.

The baby world is full of some truly inspiring brands, many of which are just as kind to the environment as they are to our children. We celebrate some of our favourite companies who are giving back with various eco initiatives, one of which even plants a tree for every pushchair sold – check it out for yourself on p.54.

On the topic of all things natural, I entered this world upside down, weighing 6lb 12oz,

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@baby_london

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 9

Where were you born?

I was born in Birmingham, now I live further out in Worcestershire.

What’s your favourite thing about summer?

Enjoying long walks with our children in the evenings, family barbecues and social gatherings with all the lighter nights.

Describe motherhood in three words…

Stressful, fun, rewarding.

Laura reviews the best breast pumps on the market on p.98

W

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SAR A H

AM

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LAUR

GGER BLO

Where were you born?

Nottinghamshire – I was always a bit of a country girl and happiest when riding horses.

Where do you live now?

Now we live in Marylebone, and have done for 14 years. I adore its village-style atmosphere and being so close to the beautiful parks.

What’s your favourite thing to do in summer?

Have picnic dinners with the girls in the garden – it’s the simple things that make me happy!

Hannah invites us into her home on p.64

ON AS

ER PH RA

FORD-TAY R AF LO ST

R,

HANN AH

CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

Cuckfield, West Sussex. Now I split my time between East London and Berlin, so get to make the most of two wonderful cities.

What’s your favourite thing to do in summer?

I love to head out to the lakes and go swimming with my kids. They are always happiest when near water.

Describe motherhood in three words…

Life-changing, emotional, fun.

Sarah captures our fashion story on p.40

UK

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

-TO-DATE, UP

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KEEP

BABY LONDON ONLINE N D O N.

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

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

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

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

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

10 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

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

The softest baby bedding and baby blankets in 100% organic cotton certified by GOTS. Swedish design

littleheart www.littleheart.se

Daisy

PHOTOGRAPHED BY FIONA MOOREY PHOTOGRAPHY

One-year-old Daisy lives in Ringwood, Hampshire, with her dad Dom and mum, Natalie. She loves books, going on walks in her pushchair and playing on the swings, but blowing raspberries is what makes her laugh the most! babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 13

i-Gemmâ„¢ signature Welcome to a luxurious world of soft, textured, quilted fabrics; aged cognac leatherette touches in all of the most elegant of spaces; and beautifully tailored lines; all exquisitely crafted to make memories of each moment with baby last forever.

A SIMPLY TIMELESS i-SIZE INFANT CARRIER WITH LAYERS OF PLUSHNESS AND LAYERS OF PROTECTION.

joiebaby.com/signature

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

baby

NEWS

NEWS

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

MADE WITH LOVE

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KEEP U

The new-season collection from Portuguese label Grace Baby & Child has got us weak at the knees. Inspired by the coast and the countryside of northern Portugal, where everything is designed and locally made in small quantities, the gorgeous pieces feature nautical references and vintage details in a palette of sea green, indigo and salmon pink. Sizes start at newborn. gracebabyandchild.com

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NEW MUMS IN NORTH WEST LONDON HAVE BEEN TRIALLING A NEW NHS INFORMATION BOOKLET UPON LEAVING HOSPITAL. PACKED WITH INFO ON MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH, FEEDING YOUR BABY, FOLLOW-UP CARE AND MORE, IT COMES IN RESPONSE TO DEMAND FOR CLEARER ADVICE FOR NEW PARENTS. ACCESS THE DOCUMENT AT HEALTHIERNORTHWESTLONDON.NHS.UK

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 15

NEWS

TIME TO TWIN

The new matching onesies from Mori are perfect for a bit of mum and baby twinning. Made from the softest organic cotton and bamboo, the full-length bodysuits come in both blush pink and grey marl, and feature scratch mitts for baby and nickel-free poppers at the neckline for easy breastfeeding. Buy together or separately, with sizes starting from newborn. From £29.50, babymori.com

AS NATURE INTENDED Marks & Spencer has gone green with a new range of organic baby clothing. The cotton range features sweet animal characters in a unisex palette, choose from sleepsuits, cardigans, bibs and more, with great outfits for gifting, too. From £6, marksandspencer.com

FRENCH CONNECTION Joone Paris has a passion for nappies and is here to convince you they’re anything but boring. The start-up was founded last year with the mission to create eco nappies with cute designs and a strict ‘no-nasties’ policy.

Subscriptions from £49.90, joone.com

LANSINOH’S FEED WITH CONFIDENCE AWARDS HAS UNVEILED THE TOP 20 BREASTFEEDING-FRIENDLY CITIES IN THE UK, WITH LONDON, NORWICH AND EXETER MAKING THE TOP THREE. SADLY, FURTHER RESEARCH FOUND 46% OF PEOPLE STILL FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE WHEN WITNESSING BREASTFEEDING, WITH MORE WOMEN THAN MEN FEELING UNEASY. LANSINOH.CO.UK

WIN!

A STYLISH MELOBABY TOTE BAG WITH METANIUM When you’re out with your little one, you’ll need all your nappy changing essentials in one bag, so you can just pick it up and go. Thankfully, we’ve teamed up with Metanium to give away two Melobaby Vesancy Noir faux leather changing bags (worth £89 each) plus a Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion, ideal to keep inside for on the go.

The handy spray lotion protects and moisturises baby’s skin to help prevent nappy rash. It forms a barrier to help protect against external irritants that can cause nappy rash.

If the dreaded nappy rash does strike, try Metanium’s Nappy Rash Ointment, which is designed specifically to treat and soothe. metanium.co.uk. Enter online at babylondon.co.uk/competitions

16 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

FROM MEXICO WITH LOVE New label Miss Frida delivers the artisanal craftsmanship of Latin America with its clothing for baby. The debut collection includes outfits featuring floral embroidery crafted by a group of women from a Mexican village. Each piece is unique, and offers the women a fair wage. From £52, missfrida.com

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NEWS

FOR LITTLE EXPLORERS Bugaboo has launched its second line of special-edition pushchairs with We Are Handsome, the Australian swimwear brand known for its striking graphics. The latest design features a tropical toucan print, available on the Donkey, Fox and Bee models and accessories, as well as on the Boxer luggage system.

Buggy collection from £94.95, bugaboo.com

SWEET DREAMS Created from a calming blend of mandarin, frankincense, English lavender and chamomile, the Sleepy Baby Nursery Reed Diffuser from Mummy Loves Organics creates the perfect environment to send baby off to the land of nod, as well as establishing a good sleep routine. £35, mummylovesorganics.com

ANIMAL MAGIC From its creative HQ in Brooklyn, Aden + Anais brings us its new White Label range of swaddles, bibs and blankets inspired by the natural world. The two new prints include elephants and parrots in tropical shades, and an African-inspired design starring cheetahs and rhinos. adenandanais.co.uk

THE ART OF READING Float away on an adventure with A Balloon Away, the first book for children by cult design magazine Cereal. The timeless tale sees two characters, Sona and Grey the bear, travel to beautiful places all over the world, learning about the landscape and picking up a few life lessons along the way. From £15, Francis

CARRIED AWAY

The latest baby carrier from Ergobaby is its best yet. The Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh is crafted from a durable 3D mesh fabric that allows for breathability and increased airflow – great for warmer climates and active lifestyles. Suitable from birth up to toddler age, it allows you to carry baby in four different positions, with crossable shoulder straps and a supportive waist belt. Available in four colours. £154.90, ergobaby.co.uk

THE NEW TOY DEPARTMENT AT HARRODS IS SET TO OPEN THIS MAY AND WILL BE HOME TO SOME OF THE BEST TOYS FROM AROUND THE WORLD. THE SPACE HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO CAPTURE IMAGINATIONS, WITH A FANCY DRESS FITTING ROOM, DAILY DEMOS AND THE POPULAR TOY CONCIERGE SERVICE. VISIT ON THE FOURTH FLOOR FROM MID-MAY. HARRODS.COM

18 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

NEWS

WIN!

PASITO A PASITO SET WITH LUCY & BELLE

BAMBINO BOOTIES

Your toddler will love learning to walk in these sweet trainers from luxury Italian label Giuseppe Zanotti’s Junior line. The illustrated balloon print, side zip detail and secure Velcro strap are made for super-stylish little ones. There are larger sizes and a matching backpack for older kids, too. £230, giuseppezanotti.com

The royal baby is due any day now, so to mark the occasion we’ve teamed up with online retailer Lucy & Belle to give away the Total White collection from Spanish brand Pasito a Pasito. The royal couple are known to be fans – after her birth, Princess Charlotte left the hospital cosied up in a car seat which was dressed in one of its covers. The prize, worth more than £300, includes the universal car seat cover, travel bag, changing bag with mat, and dummy bag. lucyandbelle.com. Enter online at babylondon.co.uk/competitions

BEST OF THE BLOGS

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

Stylist and new mum Lauren shares her motherhood musings over on Little In The City

THE LITTLE STYLIST

BECKY O COLE

LITTLE IN THE CITY

Kids’ stylist and mother of two Charlotte Kewley is the woman behind The Little Stylist, a blog dedicated to the wonderful world of children’s fashion. From the best buys on the high street to luxe items for those special occasions, she picks her favourites from what can sometimes seem like an overwhelming amount of choice. Her site features userfriendly tabs for the type of child you’re shopping for and the item you’re after, and browse the blog posts for the latest on new brands and interviews. thelittlestylist.com

Mum to baby Rupert, Becky resides in Northern Ireland, from where she runs her blog advocating a more mindful, greener approach to life. A former ‘city girl’, she now revels in a slower pace of life on a farm; her posts range from seasonal eating to staycations, eco cleaning to motherhood essentials.

Becky also hosts her own podcast – Nature & Nourish – and runs courses teaching others how to re-connect with nature. beckyocole.com

Lauren Silvester was running her successful fashion blog, Sassy in the City, when she discovered she was pregnant. Naturally, she wanted a separate space to talk all things motherhood, and Little in the City was born. Alongside fashion picks, there are user reviews, and personal pieces on talking points such as maternity leave. We also love her ‘Learning Corner’ series; a monthly round-up of the best articles for new or expectant mums. littleinthecity.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 19

MAY 4 BOOKISH BABY

Little ones will love the bright and bold colours in new read Circle Rolls by Barbara Kanninen and Serge Bloch, out today. This is a clever story about friends who literally come in all shapes and sizes, with brilliant rhyming text. £12.95, phaidon.com

Plant life

The world’s greatest glasshouse, Temperate House at Kew Gardens, is set to reopen on 5 May after a lengthy restoration. To celebrate, there’s plenty going on; aerial acrobats will take you to dizzying heights with special weekly performances, and Gnomus the giant puppet is on hand to give families a story-led walking tour. kew.org

7 WEANING WEEK

Taking place between 7-13 May, National Weaning Week’s aim is to bring together experts, top brands and real families to offer help, advice, tips, support and recipes. weaningweek.co.uk

15 TIME TO TALK

The Big Breastfeeding Café returns for its third year this month. Nursing brand Medela is encouraging mums to host their own café at home, in a local coffee shop or hall to chat all things breastfeeding over a cuppa and cake. Sign up for your free hosting pack at medelamums@gmail.com

dates for your

ROLL UP, ROLL UP

Battersea Circus Garden Between 4-13 May, as part of the Wandsworth Arts Fringe, Shillington Park in SW11 will be transformed in Battersea Circus Garden, playing host to a cornucopia of fun activities and events. Its programme of shows includes international acrobatic troupes, cabaret and dance performances, and physical theatre, plus lots of participatory workshops for plenty of family fun.

Ticket prices vary, wandsworthfringe.com

20 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

DIARY

Bowl and spoon set £14.99, bamboo bamboo.co

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

20

JUNE

Head to your nearest Mamas & Papas store for its special Parents to Be event today. In a relaxed setting, you’ll get the chance to soak up helpful advice from experts on topics such as first aid, fitness and car seat safety. Book to guarantee your place in Battersea, White City, Stratford or Croydon. mamasandpapas.com

3 ALL ABOARD

FINDING YOUR FEET

27

MONSTER TALES David McKee’s iconic picture book Not Now, Bernard, has been reimagined for the stage.

It’s only running until the end of the month, so act fast if you don’t want to miss it! unicorntheatre.com

Head to the London Transport Museum and enjoy the final day of its half term family event. Discover the jobs required to keep London on the move, featuring dance and activity workshops. ltmuseum.co.uk

14 WIN BIG

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

17 FATHER’S DAY

Time to show the man in your life just how much he’s loved.

18 STEP BY STEP

Raise money for Barnardo’s with the Big Toddle event this week – a sponsored walk just ShopUp London, the stylish shopping event from Babyccino for little legs! bigtoddle.co.uk showcasing a host of independent brands, is being SO SNUG held this weekend The new SnüzPod 3 at The Yard, bedside crib goes Shoreditch. on sale today! theshopup.com £199.95, snuz.co.uk

9 GET SET, SHOP!

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Tiba + Marl backpack £130, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

COMPETITION

WIN! THIS PUSHCHAIR WORTH £690

A

s a brand already known for its fantastic nursery furniture offerings, Tutti Bambini has now launched two new pushchairs. Say hello to the lightweight Koji as your sidekick for city living and the adaptable Arlo, designed to grow with your family. To celebrate the launch of these new products, Tutti Bambini has teamed up with Baby London to give away an Arlo pushchair, including carrycot, worth £690!

Suitable to use from birth, the effortlessly stylish Arlo is available with a Charcoal or Chrome chassis, plus five different fabric colours; Liquorice, Midnight Blue, Oatmeal, Charcoal and Poppy. Not only is this sleek pushchair easy on the eye, it’s also cleverly designed to make adventures easier than ever. With

The carrycot comes complete with comfortable mattress and washable lining

all-round suspension for super-easy steering alongside heightadjustable handlebars, puncture-proof PU tyres for sturdy grip and durability, a large, easy-access shopping basket for those mad dashes to the shop, not to mention a one-hand, easy-fold mechanism… you really are ready to face the world.

Looking ahead, the Arlo is future-proof, too. Designed to grow with your family, this multi-combination pushchair is adaptable. It may start life as a single pushchair but if you’re adding to your brood or discover you’re having twins, it can be adapted to fit twin and tandem combinations. So what are you waiting for? Simply enter online for your chance to win. And good luck!

To enter, visit babylondon.co.uk/competitions COMPETITION CLOSES 11.59PM ON 14 JUNE 2018. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT TUTTIBAMBINI.COM

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 21

Th e fin e a r t of h olida y ma k in g

At Sovereign, we pride ourselves in creating perfect bespoke luxury holiday stories tailored to suit your family.

All of our holidays include: • Personalised service from a dedicated Family Trusted Adviser • Every hotel handpicked and visited first-hand • Hassle-free private resort transfers • UK airport lounge access

sovereign.com | 01293 839177✝ Mediterranean • Middle East • Indian Ocean • Caribbean & Mexico • Far East †Calls from UK landlines cost the standard rate, but calls from mobiles may be higher. Check with your network provider. Sovereign is a member of the Travelopia group of companies. ATOL protected.

ABTA No.V4068

SHOPPING

LOVES This pretty pair will protect little feet while allowing young walkers to feel the surfaces underfoot

PHOTOGRAPHY: SARAH WINBORN

Step into spring Each new season deserves a new pair of shoes, right? This pocket-sized pair by ethical label Amy & Ivor come handmade to order using the softest chrome-free eco leather. Designed to fit the contours of tiny feet, these high-top booties feature the prettiest floral print, handpainted in the brand’s studio.

Available in sizes 2-9 (around six months to four years).

Amy & Ivor booties, ÂŁ49, hedleyfield.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 23

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

0800 014 2770 www.totstotravel.co.uk

Free 20+ items of baby & toddler kit

30 point child safety check

Leander highchair £165, nubie.co.uk Silk dress £200, caramel-shop.co.uk

Nobodinoz sleeping bag £44, en.smallable.com

Suede pram shoes £27, littlerolondon.com

Cashmere cardigan £98, cashmirino.com

Naturapura romper £46, childrensalon.com Ooh Noo alphabet blocks £58, libertylondon.com

Grimms wooden teether £13, mamaowl.net

Cotton babygrow £80, caramel-shop.co.uk

From a selection at piupia.co.uk

NATURE TRAIL

New-season neutrals come in the form of cosy cashmere, organic cotton and eco-friendly toys

Egg stroller £769, kiddicare.com

Wooden baby gym £72, oskoe.com

Tocoto Vintage bonnet £40, mabelchild.co.uk Monbebe romper £35, greenberrykids.com

Amy & Ivor pram shoes £42, cissywears.com Wooden Story teether £16.95, lullabuy.co.uk

Cotton cardigan £90, bonpoint.com

SHOPPING Cotton cushion £19.99, zarahome.com

Leander hanging cradle £284, nubie.co.uk

Cotton romper £85, mariechantal.co.uk

From a selection at lacoquetakids.com

Cotton cardigan £82, bonpoint.com

Cotton babygrow £35, molo.com Daisy & Bump print £65, bluealmonds.co.uk

UP, UP & AWAY

Tiny Cottons romper £51, scandimini.com

Chloé bodysuit £102, childrensalon.com

The sky’s the limit for this calming colour palette.

Look out for sweet cloud prints, too Meri Meri hanging mobile £21, en.smallable.com

Moumout t-shirt £26, en.smallable.com

Hape wooden plane toy £5.50, scandiborn.co.uk

Wooden rocker £417, maisondeux.com

Plastic bowl £7.50, buddyandbear.com

Canvas trainers £27, vans.co.uk

Cotton throw £45, babymori.com Cotton-blend dress £85, caramel-shop.co.uk

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

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

Proud pioneers of breastfeeding innovation since 1965.

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URBAN JUNGLE

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Glückskäfer rolling rattle wheel £10.96, babipur.co.uk babylondon.co.uk | JAN/FEB 2018 | 29

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INTERVIEW

Alex was 39 when she had her son, Teddy

Fred & Noah’s baby leggings are a staple in Teddy’s wardrobe Cotton leggings £13.50, fredandnoah.com

The One Show presenter married husband Charlie Thomson in 2015

MY ESSENTIALS ALEX JONES

How’s life been since the birth of one-year-old Teddy?

Life is unrecognisable from where it was two years ago, but better in so, so many ways. I always wanted a family, but I wasn’t hugely maternal. I was glad when I fell pregnant because we were ready, but I wasn’t quite ready for the surge of love. Our life is less frenetic than it used to be – it’s more solid, more centred, more calm, and we love it. Having said that, some days you do think, ‘what have I done – is this going to continue forever?’ and that’s the flipside of it. While it’s magical, it’s also a game-changer!

So would you say motherhood has changed you as a person?

It’s definitely made me a better person, I’m more focused and better at my job. Some people say I rushed back to work – and yes, it was a short amount of time – but I work in a very fickle industry [Alex went back to work

The TV host and author talks family life, returning to work and the reality of

after three months off]. Plus, situations have changed since our mothers’ generation – I’m the main breadwinner, like many of my girlfriends are, and it’s hard to balance being self-employed with having a baby. I’m luckier than most, but I do think I’m a better presenter now than I was before because I know myself a lot more.

You touch upon change in your new book, Winging It! Can you tell us more about that?

The book kind of does three jobs really; it’s got a lot of practical stuff in there, like lists of what you need to buy and advice on things like childcare, but it’s

Alex shares a rare snap of Teddy, in his Fred & Noah bodysuit

Stokke Trailz all-terrain stroller from £964, stokke.com

also a very honest account of motherhood that was written by me in the midst of my first year.

A lot of people write these things in hindsight – but I was writing this in the eye of the storm. Now reading it back, I think, ‘oh god, it’s so personal, I can’t actually believe it’s in print!’ but I’m also glad it’s out there.

I talk about conception, I talk about my labour, I talk about how difficult I found breastfeeding and how it nearly tipped me over the edge. I talk about the impact Teddy has had on our relationship – good and bad – even my husband Charlie is like, ‘Al, I can’t believe you’ve actually written this down!’

However, it’s also a general guide for women who are becoming mothers, but essentially those in their late thirties who already have a busy career and think, ‘my life is already at capacity, how am I going to fit a baby into this, and enjoy it?’

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 33

INTERVIEW Gro-Egg room thermometer and night light £16.99, gro-store.com

With her One Show

r co-host, Matt Bake

Why did you also decide to include experts in there?

I could give personal experience by the bucket-load but I thought to give it gravitas it was important to get the voice of some experts in there. Then, on top of that, there are anecdotes from other parents. As somebody who came to London for my career – the same for my husband – we don’t have parents nearby who can help us. We had to rely on peers for advice. And that’s something that’s quite common for couples, so I wanted to bring all those anxieties together into one book and address them.

Did you have an enjoyable pregnancy?

I loved it. It’s odd, your body is being completely taken over, and yet, it’s amazing to watch it change. It’s like being the subject of your own David Attenborough programme! Some days it gets you down, but on the whole I

34 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

what it was for. Oh, and a mobile Alex says she tends to favour and mirror in the car is essential small brands when she can because Teddy hates travelling.

Organic cotton bedding set £44.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk found pregnancy really uplifting and was more at ease with myself than I had ever been before.

Where do you like to shop?

I like Zara Baby, and JoJo Maman Bébé because the clothes wash up amazingly. I also love Fara, the children’s charity shops. They have them all over London, but a good tip is to go to the one in Notting Hill where you can pick up little Chloé jackets. I also like Fred & Noah for baby leggings, Frugi for organic clothing, and The Little Green Sheep for bedding.

What have been your can’t-livewithout items ever since?

Firstly, Water Wipes – loads of them! Teddy has never had nappy rash and I’m convinced it’s because of them. For Teddy’s pushchair we bought a Stokke, which is like the 4X4 of prams. My NCT girls would always joke, ‘oh, here she comes with her massive pram!’ but it’s super safe and there’s loads of space underneath. My friend also bought me a GroEgg room thermometer for Teddy’s nursery, The star wrote her new book in the which has been midst of her first amazing, even though year of motherhood at first I had no idea

Where do you live in London?

Chiswick – we had our first date in the pub at the end of our road and literally haven’t moved since.

We’ve celebrated everything at the same table in the same pub! We love Chiswick because it’s so family-focused. We used to joke that you couldn’t move for buggies around there, but of course, now it’s brilliant.

What’s a typical weekend like for you these days?

Weekends are sacred now because that’s the only time we have as a threesome. And we’re so lazy; we’ll sit around in our pyjamas until midday! Then if Ted goes down for a nap, often Charlie and I will sneak back to bed too. We might go for a brunch or head to the shops, or take Ted for a walk down by the river.

Winging It! Parenting in the Middle of Life

by Alex Jones (£14.99, Lagom) is out now

INTERVIEW: DANIELLE WILKINS. PHOTOGRAPHY: IAN WEST/PA IMAGES; DAVID VENNI; SHUTTERSTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/ALEXJONESTHOMSON

The family enjoy walks around nearby Chiswick House

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WHY CHÂTE AU LE S CAR R ASSE S IS EVERY THING YOU N EED FOR TH E PER FEC T FAMILY GE TAWAY

estled in the unspoiled vineyards of the Languedoc in France, the lovingly restored Château Les Carrasses is an intimate and stylish property boasting 30 selfcatering residences, first-class hotel facilities and a relaxed, private members’ club vibe.

It’s also a place where family-led activities go hand-in-hand with elegant design and attentive service. The chic Brasserie serves seasonal Mediterranean fare, complete with a dedicated menu and early sitting options for younger diners, while the wine bar, infinity pool, kids’ club (during the school holidays), tennis courts, orangery and gardens ensure families want for nothing during their stay.

The various accommodation options at Château Les Carrasses range from stunning one-bedroom suites to spacious houses, complete with private pools, which sleep up to eight – perfect for large families travelling together. Each of the individually designed residences combine a calming contemporary colour palette and traditional French country flair for a boutique feel, and the modern comforts have not been overlooked, with everything from barbecues and fully-equipped kitchens to roll-top tubs and sun loungers.

Children and parents alike will have the time of their lives at this beautiful, spoiling Château.

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Days can be spent soaking up the sunny Mediterranean climate by the pool before working up a sweat on the tennis, pétanque or volleyball courts. Bikes are available to borrow for scenic rides through the vines or along the Canal du Midi, while the sandy beaches of Gruissan and Sérignan Plage are not to be missed. The concierge team is on hand to ensure guests get the most out of their stay and can help organise horse riding, kayaking and rock climbing, too.

For parents craving a bit of grown-up time and the chance to sample some of the Château’s own vintages, drop the little ones off at the brilliant kids’ club (for children aged four to 12 years) run by a team of English-speaking staff. Overflowing with creative activities that focus on nature, children will be safely looked after and return worn out, having refined

their archery skills and made dens in the woods. The children’s daily supervised dinner parties are popular, too, and help to cement new friendships, while a fully referenced babysitting service can also be provided.

Already picturing yourself with a glass of picpoul in hand? It’s time to enjoy a memorable family-friendly holiday the Château Les Carrasses way.

lescarrasses.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 35

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Emma O’Donovan R EVE AL S H ER FAVOU RITE NATU R E R E ADS FOR L ATE SPRING AN D SUMM ER

THE WEATHER GIRLS

By Aki

This delightfully catchy rhyming story follows a gang of busy girls as they embrace everything the seasons have to throw at them. £12.99, Two Hoots

BOOKS

This witty rhyming tale makes a great introduction to the weather for the very young

INCY WINCY SPIDER

By Richard Merritt

Everyone’s favourite nursery rhyme in board book format will provide hours of entertainment as toddlers search under the flaps for the hidden surprises. £6.99, Pat-a-Cake

COLOUR ME: WHO’S IN THE POND?

By Surya Sajnani

High-contrast artwork magically comes to life when immersed in water, in this delightful bathtime book for babies. £8.99, QED Publishing

FUNNY BUNNIES RAIN OR SHINE

By David Melling

Bouncy bunnies experience all

manner of weather conditions in this wonderful rhyming story.

Bucket-loads of charm make this a favourite to share over and over. £6.99, Hodder Children’s Books

CAN YOU SAY IT TOO? TWEET! TWEET!

By Sebastien Braun

What better way to start exploring your environment than in your own garden? Common birds are introduced in this lavishly illustrated tale for babies. £6.99, Nosy Crow

THE WEAVER

By Qian Shi

Stanley collects precious things in his web. Discover the difference between what you collect in the world and what you collect in

your heart in this simply stunning picture book. £10.99, Andersen Press

readers of all ages. £11.99, Flying Eye Books

SINGING IN THE RAIN

By Sam Usher

By Tim Hopgood

Sweet and positive in its message, with bright, eye-catching illustrations, this book is an uplifting celebration of rain!

A rather joyous nod to the singalong classic. £12.99, Oxford University Press

ONE DAY ON OUR BLUE PLANET: IN THE OCEAN

By Ella Bailey

You‘ll be inspired by the natural world when you spend the day with a baby dolphin and her pod.

Breathtaking pastel illustrations rich with detail will entrance

RAIN

Despite the rain and floods, Sam and his grandfather embark on a magical adventure on their way to post an important letter. A classic story to be enjoyed for generations to come. £6.99, Templar Publishing

STANLEY’S STICK

By John Hegley and Neal Layton

A simple stick becomes they key to Stanley’s imagination as it provides endless opportunities for creativity, in this beautifully crafted story about outdoor play. £6.99, Hodder Children’s Books

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 37

PROFILE Idan oil (coconut and tuberose) £39, lihabeauty.co.uk

GET THE LOOK

Soy wax candle £18, purcandles.co.uk

Caboo DXGo carrier £65.99, closeparent.com

Organic dairy-free chocolates and cardboard toy £3.50, playinchoc.com

INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION

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@MAMALINAUK

Mother and ethical-living advocate Emma Ross vlogs about life with her boys, Jack, three, and Sonny, one Why did you first start vlogging?

I started vlogging when I was working at YouTube – I could see that mums holding up a camera to their tired eyes, greasy hair and cute kids was becoming a thing, that there were stories to tell and memories to capture. I wanted to give it a go, so I began filming small bits in one take on my camera in my bedroom.

Who do you like to follow on Instagram?

I love following a variety of folks. Some of my favourite accounts are @healthy_ish (yummy food with style), @thejungalow (luscious plant filled interiors), @talia_ sutra (for yoga) and, of course, some mama ones – @foxmeetsbear in Minnesota is a favourite.

What do you love about the platform?

I’ve made really strong friendships and had amazing

38 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

opportunities to travel and educate myself on all Black + Blum reusable bottle sorts of topics, from ethical fashion brands to the £13.50, andkeep.com best place to go for vegan curries.

Which ethical brands are on your radar right now?

I’m a big fan of @lihabeauty – its oils are incredible, Oshkosh dungarees £14.17, carters.com @andkeepshopping is where I go for most products, and @trashisfortossers for all things zero-waste.

What’s your biggest tip for eco-friendly travel with children?

Never go anywhere without a canvas bag, a few stainless steel tins and, of course, a reusable straw.

What are your plans for the summer?

We’re heading to the Italian countryside in July – I plan on eating my body weight in fruit. The fresh produce out there is the best!

Plan Toys pull-along train £20.99, babipur.co.uk

!

D L I M E B O BORN T

H E RE ’S A W IL D ID E A.

packed fu ll o f ’s at th r se ri tu is o m How abou t a sp ec ially de ve lo ped d an s nt ie ed gr in d nat ur ally de ri ve s an d babi es? to care fo r n ew bo rn ve su itable fo r se n siti en ev ’s it d, il m so O n e th at ’s in . o r ecze m a- pr o n e sk litt le id eas, So if yo u love ou r f th e revolu tio n . jo in th e ch ildr en o ch ilds farm .co M

THIS PAGE: Marli wears linen-blend bonnet, £49, Little Creative Factory. Cotton dress, £75, Louise Misha at Smallable.

RIGHT PAGE: Cecily wears cotton-blend dress, £72, Stella McCartney Kids at Harrods. Cotton towel, £14, Numero 74 at Smallable.

Natural selection

PHOTOGR APHY: SAR AH WIN BOR N ST YLING: Y VADNEY DAVIS GROOMING: R ACHEL JONES

THIS PAGE: Cecily wears cotton shirt, £32, and matching bloomers, £23, Arsène et les Pipelettes.

RIGHT PAGE: Kai wears cotton bodysuit, £28, Vild House of Little. Cotton trousers, £68, Bonpoint. Cotton gauze swaddle, £17, Numero 74 at Smallable.

Woven basket, £29, Olli Ella. Wooden blocks, £48, Ooh Noo at Scandiborn.

THIS PAGE: Lorenzo wears cotton shirt, £29, Wild & Gorgeous. Cotton shorts, £57, Little Creative Factory. Wooden bear toy, £29.95, OYOY at Scandiborn.

LEFT PAGE: Marli wears cotton top, £39, Velveteen. Cotton trousers (just seen), £70, Caramel. Cotton blanket, £55, Home By Door at Olive Loves Alfie.

THIS PAGE: Kai wears cotton bodysuit, £58, La Coqueta at Liberty.

RIGHT PAGE: Maya wears cotton top, £65, Caramel. Cotton throw, £39.50, Marks & Spencer.

Lorenzo wears cotton shirt, £55, Rachel Riley.

Cotton and linen romper, £30, Tootsa. Leather pram shoes, £46, Young Soles.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: CECILY, KAI, LORENZO, MARLI, MAYA. MODEL AGENCIES: ALPHABET KIDS, KIDS LONDON, URBAN ANGELS.

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Cotton bonnet £9.99, zara.com Leather sandals £19.99, zara.com

Maya wears cotton-blend top, £65, Caramel. Cotton throw, £39.50, Marks & Spencer.

Cotton dress £24.95, gap.co.uk

Cotton romper £12.99, hm.com

Cotton bodysuit £19.99, zara.com

Wheat bodysuit £35, johnlewis.com

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Cotton dungarees and bodysuit set £9, matalan.co.uk

Polarn O. Pyret shorts £14, johnlewis.com

Cotton chambray trousers £12, johnlewis.com Linen-cotton blend bodysuit £14, marksandspencer.com

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Cotton dress £10, debenhams.com

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Suede shoes £22.99, shop.mango.com

INTERVIEW

The THEORY of FATHERHOOD SINCE WELCOMING HIS SECON D CHILD JUST SIX WEEKS AGO, LON DON-BOR N AC TOR Eddie Redmayne HAS BEEN DEEP IN TH E TH ROE S OF PAR ENTING . H E TELL S K AR EN AN N E OVERTON H OW HAVING CHILDR EN HAS STEER ED HIS CAR EER

e wowed as a singing French revolutionary in Les Misérables, won an Oscar for his immaculate portrayal of physicist Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything, and showed the full breadth of his talent playing Lili Elbe – one of the first known recipients of gender reassignment surgery – in The Danish Girl, scoring a Best Actor Oscar nomination in the process. And yet, there is nothing that seems to fill Eddie Redmayne with more child-like glee than his role as Newt Scamander in JK Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts series, even with the pressures that come with entering such a prestigious cinematic universe.

“I feel a responsibility that comes with every role I play, but since I’ve always loved the Harry Potter films it’s intimidating to be part of that world,” he begins.

“There’s the pressure that comes with feeling very close to these stories and not wanting to screw up, and that makes you want to do your best work. So I ended up feeling inspired and incredibly happy to dive into that magical world, and having children makes those child-like things so much more amazing and real.”

Of course, the charming 36-year-old needn’t have fretted – the first instalment of the five-part Fantastic Beasts franchise proved a global box office smash. And this November the second chapter hits cinemas, by which time new arrival Luke – born 10 March this year – will be eight months old. He joins big sister Iris, who is two in June, in the Redmayne household – the actor is married to his wife of three years, Hannah Bagshawe.

So, it’s possible we might be witnessing a slightly bleary-eyed leading man at the premiere for Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Indeed, when asked if there was a magical power he would most like to have when it comes to parenting – given his status as a fully-fledged wizard – Redmayne replies: “I would like a spell cast to be able to sleep through the night – that would be perfect… just that!”

H

50 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

INTERVIEW

With wife of three years, Hannah Bagshawe, at last year’s BAFTAs, Royal Albert Hall

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 51

INTERVIEW

This isn’t the first time the star has extolled the exhaustive joys of fatherhood, for when his first-born was four-and-a-half months old, he made a memorable appearance on The Ellen Show. “Iris is heaven,” he began, “but before you’re a parent you hear people talking about sleepless nights, and then suddenly you’re the guy who’s floating in constant jetlag with an IV of caffeine! I’ve become that person.

“But occasionally there’s that amazing thing where it’s three o’clock in the morning and you’re sort of gently furious, yet you get a little smile, your heart breaks a bit and it’s all totally worth it,” he added.

When contemplating the father of two, one has to marvel at how Redmayne got it so right. Born and raised in London, a love for the theatre was established early on thanks to his family’s frequent trips to the West End. And though he never attended theatre school, he did embark on acting lessons, and at Eton was taken under the wing of drama teacher Simon Dormandy. “He inspired me to continue acting and I owe him so much. Simon treated us like professionals and that kind of respect and guidance makes you want to take things very seriously,” says Redmayne of his former tutor.

Following graduation from Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read History of Art, the prolific Redmayne immediately began making waves on the theatre scene, before landing the sorts of breakthrough roles

52 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

every actor dreams of. Notably, on the big screen, he starred in 2011 opposite Michelle Williams’ Marilyn Monroe in My Week with Marilyn, and now, having had phenomenal critical success across an eclectic mix of movie genres, is experiencing commercial satisfaction with what could well be one of the biggest franchises of the decade in the form of Fantastic Beasts.

And yet, on the subject of his work, the actor is consistently hard on himself.

Explaining that everyone else in his family has ‘a proper job’, Redmayne admits he’s still prone to bouts of stage fright, and also has a self-destructive habit of Googling reviews.

“I never want to allow myself the luxury of feeling so self-confident that I don’t have to The actor is now a father of two since welcoming baby Luke in March

worry or prepare just as hard for the next role as I’ve always done in the past,” he says matter-of-factly. “I think it’s healthy to have enough self-doubt that keeps you on edge and makes you want to work as hard as possible.

That’s the pressure that comes with every film, and it’s that adrenaline that pushes you to the next level.”

Yet, despite his professional phobias, in his private life Redmayne is the epitome of contentment. “Marriage is the most wonderful achievement of them all for me, because that has given me this platform to be a dad – the best dad I can be.”

And returning to the theory that being around young people is beginning to influence his choice of roles, he’s accepting of the point.

“The further I go on the less of a coincidence it seems,” he smiles. “But I certainly feel more justified in reading children’s stories, on CBeebies, for instance. It feels natural and children’s books are such works of art, it’s a real pleasure.

“I’m at the point now where Iris is beginning to understand what it is her dad does,” he continues. “So she knew it was me in Early Man [Redmayne lent his voice to the film’s lead character, comedic caveman Dug], and that amazed me.

“I want now to carry on an amazing portfolio to look at. I just need to scrabble through this hectic, incredible new world first… and get some sleep!”

PHOTOGRAPHY: REX IMAGES/JAMES GOURLEY/SHUTTERSTOCK; SPLASH NEWS/JAMES HIGGINS; ALMAY; GETTY IMAGES/NEIL MOCKFORD

With his Theory of Everything co-star Felicity Jones, Stephen Hawking and Jane Hawking

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JOOLZ

Pushchair brand Joolz believes that corporations should lead the way when it comes to a sustainable way of living; step by step it’s doing its bit to contribute to the global environment with positive design philosophy and innovative solutions. For starters, for every pushchair sold, the brand will plant a tree in your child’s name in its ‘Birth Forest’, otherwise known as the La Pedregoza plantation in Columbia’s Orinoco River Basin. All you need to do is register your buggy online and a little sapling will be given a home, in turn contributing to CO2 reduction.

Secondly, that big cardboard box that your pushchair arrives in is so much more than just packaging. Take a look on the side and you’ll find a fun cut-out project; create something practical like a chair or bird house, or perhaps a decoration for your child’s nursery, like a mobile or animal figure. The pushchair itself is made using eco-friendly fabrics and features a hypoallergenic breathable mattress, and Joolz’s soft-as-silk baby blankets – available to buy separately – are made from 100 per cent organic cotton. Oh, and the company practices what it preaches, too – its HQ is in a sustainably-renovated building in Amsterdam complete with energy-neutral solutions, including 200 solar panels on the roof. my-joolz.co.uk

BAMBO NATURE

You might not usually associate disposable nappies with sustainability, but it’s a cause that Danish brand Bambo Nature has been working towards for more than a quarter of a century.

All products made by the company have been accredited with the Nordic Swan eco label; a system that guarantees what you’re buying has been made adhering to strict criteria, and contains no lotions, perfumes or PVC. The exclusion of such ingredients helps avoid any dermatological issues, including nappy rash.

And they’re just as kind to the environment

54 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

as they are on skin; the biodegradable ‘fluff’ in the absorbent core is so effective that only the optimum amount is used, resulting in thinner nappies, which in turn reduce the carbon footprint and strain on resources. Plus, each pack comes with a promise that more trees are planted than felled.

Every product is made in the manufacturing plant at head office, where 95 per cent of all waste is recycled back into production, with the remaining five per cent burnt as fuel in local communities. bambo-nature.co.uk

It’s easy being green Annie Quinton R EVIEWS TH E BR AN DS DOING A WOR LD OF GOOD WITH TH EIR ECO -FRIEN DLY BABY BUSIN E SSE S

NATURALMAT

Nothing can guarantee baby will sleep through the night, but you can at least up your chances by investing in the very best bedding. British brand Naturalmat has been supporting the sleep of little ones for almost two decades now, with its award-winning mattresses.

The idea for the brand was first dreamt up on the high seas almost 20 years ago; founders Mark Tremlett and Peter Tindall were both keen sailors, but hated the synthetic mattresses found on most yachts. In their frustration, they started handmaking a natural fibre version that wouldn’t ‘sweat’, and would fit in a boat’s awkward space. Following the birth of Mark’s first child, they had a ‘lightbulb moment’, and began devoting the same clever thinking to mattresses for babies.

Today, the mattresses are handmade in a purpose-built factory in Devon, using natural materials such as coir – a fibre taken from coconut husks – and organic lambswool from local sheep. Wool is known for its breathable properties; it traps heat when needed and disperses it when it’s too warm – an essential for babies, who have trouble regulating their own body temperature. And of course, on top of the softness and insulation, lambswool is naturally antimicrobial, making it ideal for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.

Such is its success, the products now come in sizes for adults and older children, too.

Visit one of its boutiques in London, Devon or Cornwall, or online, and you’ll also find a selection of organic bedding, furniture and toys. naturalmat.co.uk

Each mattress is made to be free of chemicals and toxins, an is nat ra fire retar ant

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NEWBIE

High street brands are better known for their ‘fast fashion’ than sustainability. However, Newbie has arrived in the UK from Sweden and is here to shake things up. The label offers timeless and affordable fashion for children from newborn up to eight years old, and absolutely everything is made using organic and recycled materials. Sustainability is considered at every stage of production – from how the cotton is grown to improved working conditions. This eco philosophy is considered in the design process too; colour palettes and patterns are carefully selected to ensure coordination from season to season, meaning that last year’s dress can be matched with this year’s leggings, reducing the ‘throwaway’ nature of the fashion industry.

Having opened a number of UK stores in quick succession over the past six months, its core values are obviously something that parents here appreciate, too. newbiestore.com

PLAN TOYS

From the materials to the manufacturing, Plan Toys focuses on preserving our environment

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There’s something inherently nostalgic about wooden toys, isn’t there? But that’s not to say they are a thing of the past. In fact, they’re being brought right up to date by the likes of Plan Toys, a Thai company that’s pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a sustainable brand.

Set up almost 40 years ago by a group of graduates, its core value to respect and preserve natural resources for future generations still stands. Back in 1981, the company was the very first in the world to make toys from reclaimed rubberwood trees, an environmentally friendly material still used today. From then on in, everything that’s used to shape the toys is non-toxic; from the e-zero glue with minimal chemicals to the organic pigments and water-based dyes. Even the packaging makes use of recycled paper and biodegradable soy ink.

The sustainability of the organisation reaches far beyond the products. Plan Toys has its own children’s museum; it runs a cultural and environmental foundation encompassing a library, park and magazine all encouraging healthy lifestyles; and undertakes projects to benefit others, including its Mom-Made Toys to help little ones with special needs. This is a company that does good in every sense of the word. plantoys.com

MOLLY & MOO

Becoming a parent doesn’t mean your sense of style goes out the window, and one hero brand which has design, practicality and longevity at its heart is Molly & Moo. Launched only two years ago, its products have been created to stand the test of time, with minimalistic touches inspired

by Scandinavian design for a truly unisex collection.

Shop online and you’ll find a variety of essentials, from hooded baby towels to muslins squares and oversized bibs, designed to be passed down between families and repurposed as your child grows. Soft, organic cotton is used where possible, and orders arrive beautifully packaged with little to no use of plastic. Oh, and its impossibly attractive eco dinnerware won’t look amiss amongst your finest crockery either; the Constellation range features a cream set with a smattering of grey stars and is made from BPA-free bamboo, which is known for its sustainable properties. Bamboo grows rapidly, requires no water, pesticides or fertilisers and produces over a third more oxygen than the equivalent amount of trees. Impressive stuff! mollyandmoo.co.uk

WELEDA

Baby’s skin is extremely delicate; with fewer elastic fibres, it’s far more permeable than our adult skin, meaning anything that is applied to the surface sinks in more readily. When it comes to applying any lotions, it makes sense to use only the most natural formulas to avoid irritation or sensitivity.

Weleda, which has been producing natural skincare for almost a century now, is known for its use of medicinal plant extracts in its products. From healing calendula to nourishing oat and soothing

lavender, the natural power of plants is harnessed to treat a variety of skin problems, and absolutely everything is free from artificial additives such as synthetic fragrances, mineral oils and silicones.

This ‘cleaner’ approach to beauty extends throughout the business – the practice of biodynamic cultivation replenishes and maintains the land where the medicinal plants are harvested, and the company is actively reducing its energy and water intake with improved efficiency of machines and reusing condensed water. The brand’s packaging has been reworked to use more recycled materials and reduce the weight, in turn reducing its carbon footprint, too. weleda.co.uk

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STYLE

MODERN CLASSIC Bravado Designs is welcoming back its very first product – the Original Nursing Bra – after 25 years. The updated wire-free bra features one-handed nursing clips and drop-away cups for maximum skin-to-skin contact when feeding, and a racer-back style and wide-bottom band for extra support where it’s needed. Once you’ve stopped breastfeeding, you can transform it into a regular bra with the clever conversion kit.

Available in four colours. £27, bravadodesigns.com/uk

maternity fashion

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

Look out for the brand’s detailed waistbands, Breton stripes and houndstooth accents

FLEX APPEAL Figleaves has launched a dedicated range for expectant and nursing mothers. The capsule collection has comfort and functionality at its core, with pieces that adapt to your changing body, including bras – non-wired and flexi-wired – tees and leggings. Made from microfiber that’s gentle on sensitive skin, practical features include drop-down cups, deep arched bra bands and padded hook fastenings.

From £24, figleaves.com

CARRIED AWAY Known for its gigantic muslins, Marloe London has now has developed a gigantic tote to store them all in. The Family Bag in heavy duty cotton canvas is perfect everything from picnics on the beach to using as your hospital bag, and features two strap lengths, handy pockets and a waterproof lining. And why not get it personalised; the front can be embroidered with a name of your choice. £65, marloelondon.com

DRESS DREAMS If you want smart maternity clothing that won’t look amiss amongst your usual wardrobe, the new styles at Madderson London are perfectly chic. The classic shapes each feature eye-catching details, and will remain favourites long after baby’s arrival.

From £120, maddersonlondon.com

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WORKING GIRL

Whether you’re adapting your desk style to your growing bump or are going COMPILED BY: CAMILLA RIDLEY-DAY Tie-waist top £32, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Olivia Burton watch £82, johnlewis.com

Embellished cotton shirt £125, essentiel-antwerp.com

Wandler bag £575, net-a-porter.com

Sarah & Sebastian earrings £185, net-a-porter.com

Suede shoes £89, mintvelvet.co.uk

Cashmere cardigan £350, chintiandparker.com Conscious fine-knit sweater £17.99, hm.com

Conscious cotton-blend trousers £39.99, hm.com

Jersey coat £49, topshop.com

Quilted faux leather bag £745, stellamccartney.com

Zara Phillips

Linen dress £39.99, zara.com Hatch dress £345, nineinthemirror.com

Cotton-blend trousers £99, isabellaoliver.com Cotton twill dress £175, winserlondon.com

Embroidered cotton top £130, tedbaker.com

Leather notebook £45, smythson.com

Suede shoes £465, rupertsanderson.com

Leather keyring £175, anyahindmarch.com

KEEP IT COMFY YET FORMAL IN COLOUR-BLOCK DRESSES AND TOPS TEAMED WITH SMART LONG-LINE JACKETS WORN OPEN, AND STYLISH ACCESSORIES Cotton jacket £85, hush-uk.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 61

Suede shoes £195, lkbennett.com Pippa Small bracelet £1,200, net-a-porter.com

Silk jacket £595, bozenajankowska.com

Silk shirt £155, reiss.com

Nursing top £20, topshop.com

Silk skirt £273, almasanta.com

Helene Berman for Trilogy jacket £195, johnlewis.com

Cotton trousers £60, boden.com

Brass cuff £25, made.uk.com

Faux leather bag £120, mattandnat.com

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Paul & Joe shirt £251, nineinthemirror.com Stella McCartney glasses £215, matchesfashion.com

Personalised leather bag From £95, honeyandtoast.co.uk

ELEGANT, WAIST-SKIMMING DRESSES AND SKIRTS AND LIGHTWEIGHT SILK SHIRTS ARE A GOOD PLACE TO START, WHILE EXTRAVAGANT ACCESSORIES WILL DO WONDERS TO BOOST YOUR POST-BABY EGO

Cotton dress £52, warehouse.co.uk

Frame shirt £243, irisfashion.co.uk

Wool-blend trousers £145, reiss.com

Camel-wool coat £495, thefoldlondon.com

SDress dress £620, reve-en-vert.com

Silk-blend scarf £125, beulahlondon.com

By Malene Birger jacket £425, nineinthemirror.com Leather loafers £119, kurtgeiger.com 62 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: SPLASH NEWS

Nursing top £22, mamalicious.com

IN F ST EE AN D TL Y

Colic – Treatment, NHS Choices: “Lactase is an enzyme that helps break down a sugar called lactose, which is found in milk. Your baby may have a temporary problem digesting lactose, which could contribute to their colicky symptoms.” (2015)1

Care Co-Lactase Enzyme Drops To reduce the lactose content in milk

Product classification: Food Enzyme

✔ Feed immediately after adding to milk

✔ Can be used from birth onwards

Available now in

Boots, Asda, Morrisons and other pharmacies ies

✔ Sugar, preservative and flavour-free ✔ Sufficient for 60 feeds

TM

You should see an improvement after 1 week. If symptoms persist after this time please speak to your Healthcare Professional.

All the care you need.

Reference: 1. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Colic/Pages/Treatment.aspx Thornton & Ross Ltd, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD7 5QH. Telephone 01484 842217. Care + and the lozenge device are trademarks of Thornton & Ross ltd.

INTERVIEW

Motherhood has taught me a love like no other Kate Freud M EE TS MODEL MOTH ER OF T WO Hannah Strafford-Taylor IN H ER LON DON H OM E TO TALK FAMILY, FERTILIT Y AN D FIN DING A JOB YOU LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

n first meeting Hannah StraffordTaylor in her immaculate London apartment, her flawless complexion and cheery demeanour completely belie the sleepless night she’s just endured thanks to her 16-month-old daughter, Winter, who’s teething (she also has a seven year old daughter, Soleil).

“Over time I have learnt to appreciate every second, which as any mother knows, is not always easy,” she smiles. “But I know when I’m old and grey I will give anything to relive these years, so I try to make the best of it!”

Her positivity in the face of exhaustion is certainly admirable, and the 38-year-old has always been one to maintain a glass-half-full attitude, even when at times, life has dealt her a difficult hand. She has been with her husband Ian, who runs a foreign exchange company, since she was 24, and right from the

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off she always knew she wanted children, but her journey to motherhood was not to prove an easy one.

“Both my girls were born through IVF,” she explains, “but what’s even more of a miracle is that they are from the same batch of embryos. I initially did IVF when I was 29 after my husband’s vasectomy reversal wasn’t successful. We had been trying for a while and I got myself in such a panic that I may not be able to ever get pregnant, so IVF was the next option.” Though Hannah says she didn’t find the actual process of IVF too gruelling, the heartache when it didn’t work was something she hadn’t anticipated.

The couple were lucky, however, that during their first round they were able to freeze nine embryos and their daughter Soleil was the result of a frozen IVF cycle a while

Winter wears INTERVIEW dress and tights, both Bonpoint

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INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW

Winter wears romper, Misha & Puff. Bodysuit and tights, both Bonpoint

I MISS BEING PREGNANT – I LOVED WATCHING MY BODY CHANGE, FEELING EVERY KICK AND TURN later. Even though Hannah suffered terrible morning sickness until 28 weeks, she still loved every second of being pregnant. “We had been trying to have a baby for so long that to finally be pregnant was a dream come true – I used to be throwing up and yelling to Ian it was ‘OK’ because it meant I was still pregnant! I find the miracle of growing a baby so wonderful and I love watching my body change and feeling every kick and turn, and having a bump. I miss being pregnant so much sometimes,” she says.

In between having her two daughters, she suffered an injury to her spine which left her with chronic vertigo and migraines, conditions with which she still suffers today, though her symptoms have improved over the years. It meant there was a larger gap between her daughters than she would have hoped for, but six years later, her daughter Winter, who

she describes as ‘sitting in the freezer’ in the interim, was born – if she had been implanted at the same time as her older sister, they could in fact have been twins.

“Becoming a mother is the most wonderful thing I have done,” Hannah explains. “It has taught me such unconditional love, a love like no other. I really think you change the minute you give birth.” She continues, “I’m also lucky enough to have the most fabulous grown up stepchildren, Fern, Guy and Darcey – we really are a huge, crazy family, and it’s a lot of fun!”

And now the girls are here, you can see the pleasure Hannah takes in dressing the little ladies in her life. “I get the girls’ clothes from a few places, but I particularly love Bonpoint.

I tend to dress them in a traditional style with Liberty prints and classic cuts, finding pieces on the children’s website Melijoe, where I buy Chloé and Belle Enfant. I also adore Misha &

Puff and Louise Misha, which I get from Little Circle or Smallable,” she explains.

And her eye for style – not just for her daughters, but for herself – has garnered her more than 40k Instagram followers, a hugely popular website and an unexpected second career. “I didn’t go back to work as a model after having Soleil, so I could cherish every second with her, thinking we would never have another baby,” she explains. “After having Winter, I kind of fell into the whole Instagram and blog thing but I have to say, I am loving it.

I have always been passionate about fashion so it’s like my dream job.”

Hannah’s mother helps her with childcare but she doesn’t have a nanny, so she tends to work when Winter naps and during Soleil’s school hours. Their days together are spent enjoying their local neighbourhood in Marylebone. They walk everywhere, often

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INTERVIEW

Winter and Soleil wear dresses, Bonpoint

frequenting Daylesford, The Ginger Pig butcher, or the farmers’ market on a Sunday.

They’re also fortunate enough to have Regent’s and Hyde Park on their doorstep so weekends are spent walking the dog, getting ice cream or going to London Zoo. And, Hannah says, “Soleil loves going on the opentop bus tour of London so we do that at least a few times a year, she is fascinated with all the buildings and their history.”

Their serene home offers a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle outside, decked out in what Hannah describes as “very French,

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with shabby chic furniture.” Her favourite pieces, like the beautiful bed and mirrors, are from Sweetpea & Willow, the bedding is from The French Bedroom Company and the dining table from Blanc D’Ivoire, surrounded by beautiful chairs from Brissi.

Hannah has often found treasures in France to take home, too. “I love finding antique pieces, like old kilims from Paris and this huge, grey antique rug I picked up in St Tropez,” she says. Her love of art is also clear, adding a touch of personality to the walls. “We have a few Tracey Emin pieces, and a Mario Testino

Kate Moss photograph that I adore,” she says.

Colour is also added through her love of wallpaper, “I have several archive papers from Cole & Son and Lewis & Wood, and I adore House of Hackney so my cloakroom is covered in some of its paper,” she explains.

So what does this year hold for the stylish mother, fashion icon and homemaker? “I would love more of the same,” Hannah explains. “To have been able to forge a career through sharing the things I love with others, has proven a dream come true for me, I feel incredibly fortunate.”

MORE THAN 30 INDEPENDENT CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUES UNDER ONE ROOF F U N F O R T H E W H O L E FA M I LY S A T 9 J U N E 12— 6 P M S U N 10 J U N E 11A M — 5 P M T H E YA R D 8 9 1/ 2 W O R S H I P S T R E E T E AS T LO N D O N, EC2 A 2B F @THESHOPUP #THESHOPUP T H E S H O P U P. C O M

PROFILE

The Childrensalon boutique, Tunbridge Wells, pictured in 1991

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PROFILE

Behind the brand

CHILDRENSALON AS TH E WOR LD’S L ARGE ST STOR E FOR LUXU RY CHILDR EN SWE AR , IT’S HAR D TO BELIEVE THIS 66-YE AR- OLD COM PANY CAM E FROM SUCH H UM BLE BEGIN NINGS. Danielle Wilkins H E ADS TO CHILDR EN SALON HQ TO M EE T CEO Michele Harriman-Smith

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PROFILE

The luxury e-tailer now stocks more than 280 kids’ brands

he Childrensalon story started in 1952, when Irish-born Sybil Harriman, a mother of six, took her passion for designing and making children’s clothes and opened a store in the upmarket Kent town of Royal Tunbridge Wells.

“She started making clothes for us during the war, when my father, Rene, was stationed out in Vienna,” recalls daughter Michele, who first started at the business in 1975 and finally took over as CEO with her husband – artist George Harriman-Smith – in 1999. “Of course, there were a lot of bombed-out houses at that time, so she’d take down the curtains from these houses and use the fabric to make clothes. This continued, even when we returned to the UK. “She always made sure we were welldressed, we’d get compliments all over town.

I suppose her passion to dress children in beautiful clothes eventually became mine,” she adds, fondly.

The boutique remains an iconic spot on the quaint high street of Tunbridge Wells, but it’s Childrensalon’s wide range of online offerings that have seen the business intensify to new heights over the last 19 years.

“Building a website was his idea,” Michele smiles, pointing at her husband George. “I was quite happy with the shop, but he had his own website showcasing all his paintings and said I needed one too!

“As it grew, he kept telling me it needed to look better. He said the way it looked was bad

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for his reputation. He’s a real stickler for things like that,” she laughs.

She flicks through a slideshow of images showcasing how the website has changed over the last two decades. It was Michele, herself a mother of five and now grandmother to three grandchildren, who did all the coding, and both she and George would take all the photography at home in their garden.

A decade ago, they had just 10 people working for the company and a 2,000 square-foot studio on a rural estate.

Childrensalon has since become an e-tail empire, stocking more than 280 luxury kidswear brands – from Burberry and Gucci to Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino and Stella McCartney Kids. It has customers in 160 countries worldwide, providing customer

service in 25 different languages, offered via phone, email, Facebook and even WhatsApp. Michele takes me on a tour around the company’s HQ – also in Tunbridge Wells – now a vast 150,000 square-foot located on a business park in the outskirts. Walking around, it’s easy to see why the company has just been named 45th in The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For 2018, scoring high for its aim of putting ‘people before profit’ and giving back to the community.

The offices are bright and spacious, George’s creative artwork adorns the walls, and the people seem genuinely happy. There are posters of local charity events dotted around the space, and a photographic timeline of how the brand has evolved over the years.

The company even offers a shuttle bus service to commuting staff, taking them to and from the local train station every day.

With more than 300 staff working across the areas of buying, merchandising, marketing, digital and stock, it’s unusual for a brand this big to have such a familial atmosphere, but it does. Michele herself tends to hot-desk in various departments, still very much chatting

Childrensalon founder Sybil Harriman always had a passion for making clothes, even as a young girl

PROFILE Behind the scenes at a Childrensalon shoot, which all take place on site

Stylish

summer picks

Bam Bam baby trinket box £26

Tommy Hilfiger dungaree set £58

to customers to make sure she hears what’s happening in the business first hand.

Last year, the retailer enjoyed an £80 million turnover, meaning it’s only going from strength to strength. But how does Michele decide which brands the company should bring under the Childrensalon umbrella?

“That always comes back to our excellent buying team,” she says. “They travel trade shows worldwide in order to find the very best for our customers, season after season.

We’re also happy to be able to invest in new, up-and-coming brands – we often have brands approaching us, but likewise, we will reach out if we feel a brand to be a perfect fit. I definitely can’t wait for Alexander McQueen to come up with a children’s range!

Nanos sweater £69

Il Gufo dress £127

Sonia Rykiel Paris romper £86 ALL AVAILABLE AT CHILDRENSALON.COM

A young Mich ele and her sis ter take to the Childrensalon catwalk in 1955

“The most important element is that the clothes are beautiful and the quality is high.

Our customers trust us, and know we will only offer the very best,” she adds.

No doubt the same ethos will apply to the brand’s own clothing range, which looks set to launch later this year. I probe, but Michele is very secretive about it. “It’s something we’ve been working on for some time now – it’s a work in progress, but hopefully there will be plenty of exciting information to share soon.”

So, with an inaugural collection in the pipeline, and further brand collaborations lined up, what else does the future hold for Childrensalon? One thing’s for sure, its staying focused on customer service: “Last year we launched the iOS App, which represented a huge milestone for an e-commerce business like ourselves,” says Michele. “The Childrensalon Outlet, which we started in 2017, is also growing fast and we are foreseeing it to become its own business with a dedicated team in the next few years. And, of course, we’re always looking into new technologies – we’ll be investing more into creating a unique online shopping experience for everyone.”

Mayoral changing bag £70

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TOT GEAR

SEATED LUXURY Joie has launched its new plush Signature range across the brand’s car seat and pushchair collections.

Expect to see elegant leather touches throughout, statement fabrics, quilting and an even smoother suspension. Every Stage FX Signature car seat, £279, joiebaby.com

tot gear

EXPLORE MORE

Since launching in 2003, the Stokke Xplory has wowed parents with its impressive adjustability. The new V6 sees improvements to the carrycot and stroller seat, alongside premium textile choices. Plus, there’s now even more storage for shopping and baby baggage! Chassis, £550; seat, from £349; carrycot, from £225; stokke.com

Miffy has found her place in the world of design and fashion, including baby products

MIFFY MAKEOVER Teaming up with Spanish textiles brand Fun*das BCN, Dick Bruna’s iconic character Miffy is currently adorning a range of baby products including car seats, pushchairs and highchairs. We love this adorable padded Nomi highchair cover! £29, fundasbcn.com/en

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

STROLL IN STYLE Traverze is Diono’s new compact stroller, designed to make travelling with a baby or toddler a doddle. The clever extendable handle is for easy transportation, while the protective cover keeps it clean and protected. £250, diono.com

PLANNING A BEACH HOLIDAY? BE SURE TO PACK SANDSLIDERS – A NEW PRODUCT WHICH FITS ONTO YOUR STROLLER IN SECONDS ALLOWING YOU TO EASILY GLIDE ACROSS SAND OR PEBBLES. £23.99, SANDSLIDERS.COM

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REVIEW

TOTGEAR

Samantha Ford AN D H ER SON , R EMY, PUT TH E GB POCKIT STROLLER TH ROUGH ITS PACE S

A

ccording to the Guinness World Records, the GB Pockit is the world’s smallest folding stroller. Impressive, right? Remy is now 17 months old and has recently started nursery, so a ‘runaround’ alternative to our trusty Bugaboo Cameleon was required for shorter journeys.

The stroller drives best on even surfaces

THE LOWDOWN I really needed something lightweight, and the GB Pockit weighs in at just 4.3kg. I also wanted something that is quick and easy to open out and use, and one of the key features that sold the Pockit to me is the two-step fold – with a couple of practice runs, this pushchair becomes a handbag-shaped package in seconds, which can be flung over your shoulder or stowed away. Plus, with the added kudos of a Red Dot Design Award, I knew this would perform well.

GOOD LOOKING? It might not be to everyone’s taste but I really like the green colour, which is actually named ‘Laguna Blue’. It really pops against the black chassis and hood, and looks super modern, too.

It folds up into a handy handbag-shaped package

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVABILITY You really can’t fault the Pockit when it comes to compactness, it’s also great that it’s selfstanding when folded, so it really doesn’t take up much space at all. Many pushchairs claim to be light but with the Pockit there really is no exaggeration. That said, because of its extra-lightweight nature it is a little on the flimsy side, so it’s not a stroller you’d perhaps want to use for a long, leisurely walk – but for

The lightweight design weighs in at just 4.3kg

a quick nip into town, doing the nursery drop-off, hopping on and off public transport, or for mad dashes around the airport, it does the job perfectly. It also conveniently fits into the overhead cabin of a plane when flying. The stroller handles well on smooth, even surfaces so it’s great for city living, but tends to struggle on anything rougher, like grass and gravel.

COMFORT

it g out in the Pock Remy loves ridin

Remy seems to genuinely enjoy his time in the Pockit, he even requests to go in it! I like that the seat is easily adjustable so when he

falls asleep I can recline it without having to disturb him and risk waking him up.

There is also the option to purchase an additional Cot to Go carrycot, making it suitable to use from birth. In terms of my own comfort, I would prefer the handles to extend higher, I’m 5ft 6in and do feel like I’m having to bend forward slightly to push it.

THE VERDICT The Pockit ticks all the boxes for an easy-touse lightweight stroller. It excels at the nursery drop off, and is a great option for families who are on the go and travel a lot.

From £150, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

And so to bed…

Help your baby to establish a good sleep routine with Mummy Love Organics’ magical products

The delicate blend of essential oils promotes a calm and restful night’s sleep

oining Mummy Love Organics’ award-winning collection of reed diffusers, hand-poured massage candles and pulse-point oils – designed specifically for new mothers and pregnant women – is the brand new baby range.

Products include an organic foot oil (£12) and reed diffuser (£35), both crafted to help induce sleep for both babies and children. Blending only the purest essential oils of mandarin, frankincense, English lavender and Roman chamomile, they help little ones to relax and endure less stirring and restlessness.

The brand was founded in 2016 by a maternity nurse and baby sleep consultant, who spent six years perfecting the scents for each product to promote good sleeping habits. Using only the gentlest ingredients, all

J

of Mummy Loves Organics products are handpoured in its Harrogate studio, and, of course, as the name suggests, are completely organic and free of nasties.

Battling to get a child to sleep or self-settle is a problem that most parents can relate to; whether it’s sleep training a newborn into a routine, or re-establishing bedtime habits following a spell of sleep regression, parents around the world are united in the challenge of inducing sleep.

Thankfully, the all-new and natural Sleepy Feet Foot Oil from Mummy Loves Organics is specially designed to help baby fall into a sweet slumber quicker and stay asleep for longer. It’s also a wonder product at helping ward

off bad dreams and night terrors in toddlers and older children. Simply apply to the soles of the feet, temples and behind the ears before bedtime, and allow to dry.

Sleepy Feet Foot Oil is not tested on animals, and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. It’s recommended for use on babies and children over 12 weeks, and the beautiful aroma and gentleness of the oils will mean mum and dad will want to use it, too.

Each 8ml bottle of Sleepy Feet Foot Oil will last approximately two months. £12, visit mummyloversorganics.com

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R oy al ty or

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Confetti balloons (pack of six) £2.49, partypieces.co.uk

For a classic and traditional feel, look out for Pepa & Co’s matching handsmocked romper

GIFT IDEAS

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Keepsake presents to mark this special day

BABY PARTIES Carole Middleton

Leather memory case £125, meminio.com

NAMING DAY Personalised bangle £59, mercimamanboutique.com

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N My First Steiff teddy bear £30.90, steiff.com

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aming days are becoming increasingly popular amongst new parents who want a non-religious ceremony to welcome the arrival of their child, plus, it’s a wonderful chance to get together with close friends and family to introduce them to your new addition.

Because this is a secular ceremony, you can choose to lead the celebrations yourself or organise a trained ‘celebrant’ who can help – visit humanism.org.uk for more on this.

Aim to make the day individual with personalised readings and musical accompaniments in the form of a harpist, singer or a bespoke playlist. Ask the godparents or ‘mentors’ to write their own promises to your little one.

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1. Cotton dress with bloomers £41.50, emile-et-rose.co.uk 2. Cotton bonnet £38, pepaandcompany.com 3. Patent pram shoes £7.99, rococlothing.co.uk 4. Kissy Kissy bodysuit £18, lucyandbelle.com 5. Cotton dungarees and shirt set £58, thewhitecompany.com 6. Merino wool shawl £49.95, ghhurt.com 7. Silk bodysuit £45, marksandspencer.com 8. Silk christening dress £125, monsoon.co.uk 9. Leather pram shoes £55, rachelriley.co.uk

Personalised picture book £18.99, papier.com

Have a clear theme in mind for the celebrations – you might want to pick a colour such as pink, blue, yellow or grey, or try a classic book or nursery rhyme theme, such as Beatrix Potter, Teddy Bears’ Picnic or The Velveteen Rabbit. Use this to coordinate your table décor and food and drink.

There will no doubt be lots of gifts for baby, but why not also gift your guests to thank them for coming? Small votive candles, pretty chocolates and silver charms all make adorable favours.

Framed plaster cast from £265, philippaherbert.co.uk

English Trousseau piggy bank £49.95, harrods.com

Finally, create a special ‘time capsule’ box for baby by asking guests to place handwritten Paper honeycomb decoration notes, photographs or small trinkets inside. £1.99, partypieces.co.uk This box of mementos can then be presented to your child when they turn 16 or 18!

Paper napkins (pack of 16) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

Paper plates (pack of eight) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

STYLE Grosgrain hair bow £2, verityjoneslondon.com Sterling silver egg cup and spoon set £295, mappinandwebb.com Cotton babygrow £54, lacoquetakids.com

Cotton sleepsuit £24, boden.co.uk Sterling silver rattle £1,600, georgjensen.com Ancar bodysuit £44, childrensalon.com

Cotton bodysuit £42, trotters.co.uk

Leather pram shoes £45, papouelli.com

With a new addition to the Royal Family due any day now, we Cotton-blend romper £48, pepaandcompany.com

Cotton dungarees £45, amaiakids.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: PA IMAGES/PAUL EDWARDS

Cotton bodysuit £12, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Balmoral pram £1,600, silvercrossbaby.com Leather pram shoes £34, pepaandcompany.com

Eton cot bed £649, boori.com

Cotton romper £55, amaiakids.co.uk

Cotton romper £24, myhbaby.com

Velvet-trim coat £125, rachelriley.co.uk

Cotton sweater £26, neckandneck.com 80 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

THE BIRTH OF YOUR BABY

IN TRUSTED HANDS QUEEN CHARLOTTE’S & CHELSEA HOSPITAL

Making your birth experience everything you want it to be is central to our private maternity service at Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital.

You will have expert, caring support from your chosen consultant or midwife and warm, conducive surroundings including water birth pools and private ensuite rooms.

The private maternity ward is situated in Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital which is a leading NHS maternity unit, providing the best of both worlds for you and your baby.

As well as expert personalised care, choice and comfort, you also get the safety and back-up of the very best NHS services.

If your newborn needs a little extra support, there is reassuring 24 hour access to world

class medical support and a neonatal intensive care unit on site.

Our antenatal classes and follow-up care can help you and your loved ones prepare for your big event, and settle in to life as a family.

We offer a range of packages to suit your preferences, budget or insurance cover.

So whether you are first time parents or have been on this life-changing journey before, please consider the renowned Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital.

THE LINDO WING OF ST MARY’S

Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital, Sir Stanley Clayton Ward, Du Cane Road, London W12 0HS T: +44 (0)20 3313 1466 E: imperial.stanleyclaytonward@nhs.net W: imperialprivatehealthcare.co.uk

Part of Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. All our profits are reinvested to support our NHS services

QUEEN CHARLOTTE’S & CHELSEA

HEALTH

SOOTHING SALVE

Kit & Kin, the brand founded by mum of two and radio presenter Emma Bunton, has added to its award-winning skincare range for mamas with a new nourishing body butter. It’s enriched with all the good stuff – shea butter, rosehip oil and pomegranate extract – to soothe thirsty skin, plus, with every item sold, a donation is made to the World Land Trust. £10.99, kitandkin.com

ON POINT Acupuncture has long been used to help ‘heal’ a woman’s body post-birth, and now, the Mother Roasting Kit from The London Acupuncturist harnesses the wisdom of said Chinese medicine and brings it to the home. The beautiful package includes a moxa stick, full instructions and even a tried and tested recipe for chicken broth – a dish known for its blood-building properties. £25, thelondonacupuncturist.co.uk

SEAWEED SUPERFOOD Keep your gut in peak health and help manage excess weight post-baby with Kelp Me, a versatile powdered supplement designed to be blended into smoothies, swirled into yogurt or taken with water. Packed with probiotics, the formula will boost your immune system and metabolism, and aid weight loss. From £35, kelpme.co.uk

health & beauty

NEWS

TH E L ATE ST PRODUC TS AN D IN N OVATION S IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING IT’S ONLY NATURAL

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Made using therapeutic oils, Nom Nom skincare is gentle but effective. The organic range includes essentials for mum, such as stretch mark butter and a soothing body oil, and products for your little one – the baby oil is great for clearing up cradle cap. Each product contains ingredients to nourish skin from pregnancy to baby and beyond.

From £9, nomnomskincare.com

The camellia and vanilla butter relieves feelings of tightness and itchiness

PREPPING FOR DELIVERY DAY? THE ‘MAMA WAX’ AT STRIP CLINICS IS DESIGNED TO PAMPER THE MOST INTIMATE AREAS, LEAVING YOU SOFT, SMOOTH AND READY FOR LABOUR. ITS GLAM TREATMENT ROOMS BOAST SUPERIOR BEDS TO SUPPORT TUMMIES AND SOOTHE BACKS. FROM £23, STRIPWAXBAR.COM

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 83

FATHERHOOD

And how’s dad? ark Williams was standing on the labour ward during the birth of his son when he had his first and only panic attack.

“By this point, my wife had been in labour for 22 hours. She was shattered, I was worrying about her and the baby, and my anxiety was rising,” he says.

When the room suddenly flooded with doctors and Mark’s wife was taken for an emergency c-section, he describes feeling ‘helpless’. In all the commotion no one explained to him what was happening and he was left to look on, fearing that both his wife and baby would die.

Mark’s wife was diagnosed with severe postnatal depression soon after the birth and would eventually complete a spell in a psychiatric ward. It wasn’t until around four months in that Mark began experiencing depressive feelings himself. He recalls feeling angry; during one incident, he damaged his hand when he lashed out. He would wake in the night, sweating, terrified that his wife was going to die. The depression led to suicidal thoughts and he began drinking to blot out the pain.

M

A COMMON BUT QUIET CONDITION Mark was in the grips of Paternal Postnatal Depression (PPND), a condition that is far from unusual. A 2010 paper entitled Fact or Fiction: Fathers Can Get Postpartum Depression published in Scientific American suggests that one in 10 fathers suffer from some form of postnatal depression. A revision

84 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Mark William s and his family

by Oxford University in 2015 contended that the number may even be as high as 15 per cent. Further research conducted by the NCT found that one in three new fathers (38 per cent) worry about their mental health and, when questioned, three in four new dads (78 per cent) admitted to worrying about their partner’s mental health.

CAN’T ASK, WON’T ASK? ‘Men don’t talk about their feelings. Men toughen up and get on with it’. This dated, yet sadly entrenched attitude to male mental health certainly stops men seeking help – new fathers especially. But, says Mark, many men don’t even know they are suffering.

“I didn’t know anything about mental health or know anyone else who had suffered depression, let alone postnatal depression.”

He put his feelings down to exhaustion and the stresses of becoming a father. But his

experience also led him to found Fathers Reaching Out (reachingoutpmh.co.uk), a support service that offers help and advice to all parents who are suffering from PND and PPND. NHS postnatal provision still largely centres around the mother and baby, which, although clearly crucial, leaves little assistance for new dads. This is where Fathers Reaching Out steps in.

“We are not looking for fathers. All parents should be debriefed and more information should be available. For instance, we need to distinguish between PND and birth trauma, as they are two separate things and require different treatment,” says Mark.

“Some health visitors will ask, ‘how’s dad?’ and things are getting better, but there is hardly any support for fathers.”

The Scientific American paper also highlighted the importance of vocabulary when it comes to diagnosing depression in men. Conventional assessments tend to focus on emotional states around sadness – something lots of men find difficult to articulate. Instead, questions based around symptoms – loss of appetite, or overeating; fatigue; increase of alcohol or drug consumption; anger, detachment or suicidal thoughts, amongst others – can be more effective in achieving a diagnosis.

“Our organisation tries to help all parents,” says Mark. “If dad is suffering, that affects the mother, and that has a knock-on effect to the early years of the children. A lot of men suffer in silence. But if you don’t look after yourself, how are going to look after your family?”

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. SOURCES: SCIENTIFICAMERICAN.COM; NCT.ORG.UK

IT SEEMS THAT WH EN IT COM E S TO N EW FATH ER S, TH ER E IS STILL A L ACK OF PROVISION – AN D U N DER STAN DING – FOR THOSE SU FFERING POSTNATAL DEPR E SSION .

Rosy Edwards E XPLOR E S

FATHERHOOD

MEN DON’T TALK ABOUT THEIR FEELINGS. MEN TOUGHEN UP AND GET ON WITH IT WHAT TO You’ve spotted the signs, so how do you access help for you, or your partner?

Ask your GP. Your doctor should a a s be the first rt ca e s are n t s ecifica traine in enta hea th s it s rth being persistent, asking for a referral t a enta hea th ser ice r e en requesting a session with another in the ractice Keep going. It’s easy to think that because you’ve had a good day it’s all g ing t get better s t s ersist r get rse see t he Find what works for you. The wrong in he can t s e e e hen the nee it st cate rse ab t the t es treat ent a ai ab e gniti e Beha i ra hera B is i erent r in ness b t b th can be e ecti e in their n a in ing the right thera ist an s itab e e icati n are a s cr cia Exercise. “It sounds like a cliché but it rea he s sa s ar i e en an en st ri ritising fitness and appearance when in the grips of b t e ercise can i r e se estee an enta e being Communicate. Many new dads are reluctant to let on that they are str gg ing an an re n t want to risk further stress to their artners b ta ing ab t the se es Whether it is a friend, relative or c nse r c nicating is the first ste t rec er n s e instances st ening is en gh

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 85

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

“I know diet is important during pregnancy, but is it possible to influence my baby’s brain power through what I eat?”

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

A

bsolutely! Omega 3s, or Essential Fatty possible, but during pregnancy full fat in moderation is best. While I’m not advocating Acids (EFAs), are important structural eating burgers and chips every day, make sure elements in the development of you are getting plenty of healthy fats in the baby’s healthy cell membranes and body form of things like oily fish, avocados, brazil tissue during pregnancy. DHA in particular, nuts, eggs and flaxseed, and take a supplement plays a critical role in the development of to boost your intake. a baby’s brain during pregnancy and early While the baby’s brain may not be infancy, so it’s important to ensure a good developing in the very early stages of supply of this while pregnant and also after pregnancy, I can’t stress the importance of birth if breastfeeding. A baby is entirely reliant omega 3 enough in this phase because so on the supply of DHA within the mother as many women are low in it before they get the body does not generate this itself, so if pregnant, so building up your stores in early you do not have a large enough intake of DHA then you may suffer health issues as the baby’s pregnancy as soon as you can will ensure you’ve got plenty of omega 3 ready for the omega 3 requirements take priority. crucial stages.

A great source of DHA is fatty fish, such Between 29 weeks and 40 weeks of as salmon or trout, but I always recommend pregnancy, your baby goes that women who are trying for a baby or currently pregnant take a ed through a period of rapid Recommend brain development. This supplement as well to ensure they product is a crucial window to get their recommended daily ensure your body is allowance, which of course taking enough ‘smart’ increases during pregnancy. fats to optimise this Many women have spent development, as more years avoiding fatty foods, Zita West Vital Essence 3, than 60 per cent opting for low fat wherever £26.50, zitawest.com

of the brain is composed of fatty acids.

Choline is another important nutrient which helps your baby’s brain and spinal cord develop, and, as with all nutrients during pregnancy, your need increases so while you can get enough in your diet, a supplement is also important here as well. Milk, eggs and meat are all good dietary sources of choline.

Even after you’ve had your baby, her brain is still developing, and if you’re breastfeeding, what you eat and drink at this stage determines the content of your milk, so you need good, nutritious foods for the baby to be able to absorb. DHA is really important to carry on taking after birth if you breastfeed, as your baby is still only getting this important nutrient from you. Also, there have been some studies that show if your levels of omega 3 are good post birth, you’re less likely to get postnatal depression. The same goes for choline – and it is much richer in human milk than cow’s milk – so if you keep your intake up and carry on taking your supplements with a formulation specific to the postnatal period, then you’ll be well on your way to creating a baby genius!

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

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 87

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25/07/2017 10:55

HEALTH

The Breastfeeding Café with CLARE BYAM-COOK

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

I’VE BEEN BREASTFEEDING ON DEMAND, IS IT POSSIBLE TO ESTABLISH A ROUTINE AT THE SAME TIME?

T

his is a question that I am frequently asked by mothers who want to establish a routine but have been told that routines are not compatible with breastfeeding. Many new mothers are told that any routine will adversely affect breastfeeding as it is essential to feed on demand in order to establish and maintain a good milk supply.

The reality is, it is perfectly possible to try routines recommended by well-known authors such as Tracy Hogg or Gina Ford once your milk supply is fully established and you know your baby is feeding well enough to get the milk she needs to keep her going until the next feed is due. If you are lucky, this can happen as early as within the first week or it may take considerably longer if your milk supply is low, or your baby doesn’t feed very effectively.

Although my personal view is that babies thrive on having a degree of routine in their lives, it’s hugely important to choose a parenting method that suits both you and your baby. For many mothers, one

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Nursing bralette £62, lovestoriesintimates.com

of the joys of breastfeeding is that milk is always available on demand and they prefer to feed this way than keeping to a strict schedule, while others long to have a more predictable plan in place.

Of course, during this parenting journey we do stumble across problems, and it’s important to be aware that it is unlikely you will be able to establish a routine if your baby has any digestive problems such as colic or reflux. These babies will usually be happier if they are fed little and often.

Also don’t forget that you can always change your mind – and you’re allowed to! If your chosen method of feeding is not going well, or the routine you choose doesn’t suit you after all, it’s never too late to experiment with a different approach to see whether that suits you and your baby better. The most important thing is a happy mother and child.

Read more of Clare’s advice in her book, Top Tips for Breast-Feeding (£7.99, Vermilion) available on amazon.co.uk

Six maternity bra £72, nineinthemirror.com

Cosabella nursing bra £50, net-a-porter.com

HERE ARE MY GUIDELINES: • You cannot and should not put your baby on any kind of routine during the first few days before your milk comes in. During this time she needs to feed little and often (possibly every two to three hours) in order to get enough colostrum and to stimulate your milk to come in.

• Once your milk is fully in, you can start thinking about establishing a routine, providing your baby is feeding effectively.

• Once baby is getting enough milk to last her three to four hours, you may find she automatically asks to feed less frequently and you can start easing her into a routine.

• If your milk supply is a bit low, you must not try to push your baby into a routine as this will leave her hungry and unsettled, and will do nothing to help improve your milk supply.

Heidi Klum nursing bra £38, figleaves.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 89

With you every step of the way

BEFORE

DURING PREGNANCY

AFTER

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

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More than just folic acid

Most trusted by mums2 Most recommended by midwives2,3

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

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

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BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

QUEEN’S AWARD for the INNOVATION supporting the PREGNACARE range

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

BABY TALK

PART

Diary of a MUM

4

IT SEEMS Mar tha Alexander HAS M E T H ER MATCH , AS BABY DAUGHTER ROBIN CAN ’ T STOP TALKING

H

“

ello, darlin’.”

This is how Robin bids me good morning from inside her cot these days. She sits holding court to assorted rabbits and bears, and a little white dog whose ear is stiff with dried saliva.

They’ve usually been chatting for a good 15 minutes before I arrive.

I am no longer ‘Mummy’ either. I’m ‘Marfa’ or sometimes ‘Babe’. She’s also big on commands: ‘want it’, ‘have it’, ‘find it’, ‘do it’ and ‘get it’ are all phrases that get a lot of air time.

Robin’s an early talker. I don’t want to sound too ‘nail polish emoji’ about it but talk is big in our house – and Robin is bred for it. On both sides, she is descended from prolific chatterboxes. I never draw breath, ever. My mother could talk the hind legs off a donkey, my father loves a good gas and Robin’s late grandmother – Mikey’s mother – once talked without pause for five hours to a car full of sleeping companions.

So it was no surprise that Robin kicked off early when it came to verbal communication. ‘Cat’ was her first word, then ‘shoes’.

She is like a sponge when it comes to vocab, which is ideal when she parrots long words and sections of the alphabet but less good when you’re in the car and lose your temper with some schmuck who cuts you up on Harlesden’s one-way system and you swear and shout, and a little voice echoes your unattractive profanity from the back seat.

Robin’s early speech has only exacerbated Mikey’s belief that we are raising a child genius. However, apparently Einstein didn’t talk until he was four, so I think we can hold off on a child-sized mortar board for now. But her chattiness is just one more sign that she’s becoming a proper little person with real preferences and opinions and habits. She has idiosyncrasies: she likes her shoes to be in pairs, sorting is a big deal and she won’t wear a hair clip of any description. Her increased speech goes hand-in-hand with her confidence in general, too.

But I’ve found in motherhood, just when you become an official dab hand at whatever particular phase you’ve been enduring, it’s all over. Everything moves on so quickly that you soon have to start again at the beginning of a whole new level where there’s a fresh set of obstacles to fathom, endure and master. It’s like Super Mario World but real life, with far more avocado mash and sound effects provided by Peppa Pig. We have made various discoveries as a family of late – London Zoo, for one. Though I realise this is hardly a niche new thing that no one’s heard of. I assumed Robin would be most taken by the stars of the show – the real-life versions of the monkeys and giraffes and tigers and lions that populate our home in fluff-stuffed, miniature form. But she didn’t care much for these kings and queens of the jungle. Instead, she made a beeline for the insect house and sat in front of a chamber of cockroaches, her mouth slack with fascination.

And then: “Cider! Cider!”

“What?”

“Want it! Cider!”

This does not look good (or bode well), I thought, as other zoo-goers watched my infant daughter beg me for alcoholic beverages.

And then it became clear: through a glass door I could see a dense jungle, steamy with tropical heat so at odds with London. Dangling from seemingly every branch was – you guessed it, a spider.

We went in, even though the entire experience made me want to rip the skin from my body and run, howling, up Primrose Hill and beyond. But Robin was delighted.

She wasn’t going to be scared by fat-backed, hairylegged arachnids.

Back outside, she returned to the little glass pods.

Inside one, a scorpion lazed in the sand, its tail twitching with menace.

“Hello, darlin’,” she told it, pressing her mouth against the glass. “Hello.” bl Twitter: @marthalondon

When trips to the zoo and pets aren’t an option, this cuddly pal is the next best thing Giraffe soft toy £20, jellycat.com

Next time: Martha says farewell in her final column as she prepares for Robin’s second birthday.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 91

BIRTH

And breathe...

Teresa Walsh, MIDWIFE AT TH E PORTL AN D HOSPITAL, E XPL AIN S HOW HYPNOBIRTHING TECH NIQU E S CAN H ELP YOU MANAGE YOU R L ABOU R MOR E EFFEC TIVELY hildbirth is renowned for being a painful and often stressful experience. It’ll therefore come as no surprise that many of the women I meet as a midwife are apprehensive about the big day. I am frequently asked questions about the different techniques available to reduce the pain, and one technique I tend to recommend is hypnobirthing.

In recent years, hypnobirthing has become an increasingly popular technique used by women during pregnancy. I’ve been promoting it in antenatal classes for many years, however, only recently I have seen a substantial increase in demand among my patients.

C

Expectant mothers who choose to learn some of these techniques may find the whole experience of labour and birth calmer and more relaxed, and they may feel more in control throughout. Some studies have also shown that hypnobirthing can shorten labour and even improve the health outcomes for you and your baby. Birthing partners also learn how to be effective supporters during the labour, thus helping them to feel more involved in their baby’s birth.

WILL IT WORK FOR ME? The hypnobirthing techniques I teach in my classes can be modified and enhanced to suit most women. Hypnobirthing is particularly

HOW DOES IT WORK? Hypnobirthing – or the use of hypnosis methods during labour – is used by pregnant mothers to ease feelings of pain and anxiety during childbirth. But it sounds more daunting than it is; hypnobirthing methods are simply a modification of the age-old breathing and relaxation techniques that have helped women in all cultures for many years. These techniques can help you feel calm and relaxed during labour, and more confident during the birthing process.

Hypnobirthing techniques work because anxiety and fear experienced in childbirth can increase the levels of our stress hormones (adrenalin). This in turn blocks our labour and pain-relieving hormones (oxytocin and endorphins). What hypnobirthing teaches us is how to manage our stress and relax appropriately during labour, which will mentally prepare your body for this process.

and instructors vary in experience, so I would recommend you research the different options available to find an instructor that works for you.

DOES IT ACTUALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE? While it’s not something that we can monitor quantitatively, feedback from hypnobirthing patients at The Portland Hospital is an astounding ‘yes, it really makes a difference!’

During the final weeks of pregnancy couples will devote a little time each day to learn the skills and this alone helps them grow as a couple and share the excitement of the upcoming birth. It empowers both parents with different techniques to use during labour, helping them approach the day with confidence.

And second-time mums at The Portland, although usually less anxious, regularly tell us about their positive experiences with hypnobirthing, too.

There are any number of variables that will affect a birth, most of which hypnobirthing has minimal control over. For example, some babies are not quite in the optimal position, which can make labour longer and more painful. Every woman’s pain experiences are unique, so while hypnobirthing is not guaranteed to ensure a painless birth, it is likely to make a difference and is certainly worth considering. It is also worth remembering that hypnobirthing teaches women simple skills in relaxation that are transferrable in other areas of life – the benefits will no doubt stand you in good stead for motherhood more broadly, and beyond!

92 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

suited to those who prefer to have minimal or no medical interventions such as an epidural, as well as those who plan to have a water birth. However, it is interesting to note that many women who are very anxious or have had a previous traumatic birth are also using hypnobirthing alongside an epidural or elective c-section to help build confidence and feel relaxed throughout the pregnancy and the birth. So in some instances it can be used alongside other pain-relieving methods.

To prepare yourself, you can attend hypnobirthing classes from around 30 weeks gestation so you can learn the techniques and use them comfortably before the big day.

There are many hypnobirthing techniques,

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

IT EMPOWERS BOTH PARENTS, HELPING THEM APPROACH THE DAY WITH CONFIDENCE

BIRTH

Hypnobirthing is simply a ificati n age breathing techni es se t re a en in chi birth

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 93

HEALTH

I’M TRYING TO EAT HEALTHIER NOW – HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO EAT ORGANIC FOOD DURING PREGNANCY? Pregnant women have a greater need for certain nutrients and antioxidants, and should limit exposure to potentially harmful toxins, such as pesticides, herbicides and some metals. Choosing organic food may increase your nutrient consumption and reduce your exposure to these potential toxins. Organic meat and dairy may also contain higher concentrations of omega 3 fatty acids, which are crucial during pregnancy for fetal brain, visual and nervous system development.

Eat these alongside oily fish twice a week, and walnuts, flaxseeds and chia.

When buying the ‘dirty dozen’ (strawberries, spinach, nectarines, apples, peaches, pears, cherries, grapes, celery, tomatoes, sweet bell peppers and potatoes) try to buy organic – these fruits and vegetables have higher levels of pesticide residue than others. Even if organic, remember to wash all fruit and vegetables thoroughly under a running tap.

While eating organic may increase your nutrient consumption and reduce your exposure to potential toxins, it is important to remember that eating a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, healthy fats, quality protein and complex carbohydrates (think root vegetables and whole grains) and low in processed foods and sugar should form the foundations of your diet.

Kristy Coleman, nutritional therapist

94 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

HEALTH

meet

the

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

WHY SHOULD I GET THE WHOOPING COUGH VACCINE IN PREGNANCY?

I’M PLANNING TO BREASTFEED, CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT MASTITIS IS?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I’VE ALWAYS BEEN INTO FITNESS AND REGULARLY WORK OUT. I CONTINUED DOING A FAIR AMOUNT OF EXERCISE IN MY SECOND TRIMESTER BUT WITH EIGHT WEEKS TO GO UNTIL MY DUE DATE, SHOULD I STOP COMPLETELY?

Mastitis is a breast infection which is normally the result of a clogged duct or an infection carried from baby to mum via cracked nipples.

If you have mastitis, the most common symptoms are headaches, intense pains, tender breasts, redness, fever, cracked nipples, flu-like symptoms and generally feeling unwell.

If you think you have mastitis, you must contact your GP straight away. Antibiotics will be prescribed and you should notice your fever dropping within 24 hours, with the soreness calming down after 36 hours.

If you have mastitis, you must be sure to go to bed and stay there – you need to rest!

Apply a heat pad to the area using a hot water bottle or warm wet towel, or have a warm bath or shower. You should never apply an ice pack. Continue to nurse frequently to keep the milk flowing and avoid engorgement.

Be sure to drink lots of fluids, too.

Occasionally, baby may not nurse well from an infected breast as the milk can taste salty from the infection. If your baby is refusing or fussing, offer the uninfected breast and express the infected breast.

Deearna Withey, founder of Deearna’s Maternity Agency

Absolutely not: keep going! As long as you are still keeping well and there are no contraindications, such as a very low-lying placenta, then you can carry on exercising right up to your due date or – believe it or not, – beyond your estimated due date.

With your bump getting bigger in this last trimester you may well feel the need to slow down and take your exercise more gently – be sure to heed your body’s signals. Land-based exercise will start to feel tougher so you could switch to water-based workouts which will give you a lovely feeling of lightness and will also stop you and – importantly – your baby from overheating. The effect of water is to dissipate heat which means that your perceived rate of exertion is lower. In other words, your workouts will feel easier – just what you want to hear!

Try aquanatal, aqua jogging and swimming but if pelvic girdle pain is a problem, be sure to avoid breaststroke as is will aggravate the condition. Alongside your cardio, I would recommend carrying on with pregnancytailored core stability work such as prenatal pilates. This will help protect your lower back by keeping the deepest layer of abdominal muscles toned; it will also keep your spine mobile and postnatally will speed up recovery of the abdominal area encouraging realignment of abdominal separation.

Dr Joanna Helcke, pregnancy and postnatal Deearna Withey fitness expert deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk

Whooping cough (pertussis) is common and there has been a rise in newborn babies becoming very unwell with it, and a rise in deaths in very young babies. The good news is that you can protect your baby if you have the vaccine between 16 and 32 weeks of pregnancy, so that this immunity will pass across the placenta to the baby, until they are old enough to be routinely vaccinated at two months old.

At Richmond Practice we recommend having it between 16 and 32 weeks of pregnancy to maximise the chances of protecting your baby. However, your baby will still receive some protection if you have it later in pregnancy mainly by reducing the chance of you getting it and passing it to your newborn baby. The vaccine has been used in pregnancy across the world since 2012 and there is no evidence that the vaccine is unsafe for you or baby. You may just have some mild side effects such as tenderness at the injection site.

We recommend the whooping cough vaccine to all pregnant women, even if you have had the vaccine as a child or in a previous pregnancy to maximise the protection for your baby.

Dr Elisabeth Peregrine, consultant obstetrician at Richmond Practice

OUR PANEL

Kristy Coleman

Dr Joanna Helcke

Dr Elisabeth Peregrine

kcnutrition.co.uk

joannahelcke.com

richmondpractice.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 95

Growth, Placenta, Position.

Your third trimester scan

U LT R A S O U N D D I AG N O S T I C S E RV I C E S HARLEY STREET

Third trimester scans check your baby’s wellbeing by assessing the baby’s growth, the level of fluid around the baby and blood flow to the baby using colour dopplers.

UDS have been leaders in all forms of pregnancy scanning for over 35 years.

For further information or to book an appointment call or visit our website.

020 7935 2243 | www.uds.uk.com

96 | MAY/JUN18 | babylondon.co.uk

Time to Talk

BREECH BABIES Marina Fogle & Dr Chiara Hunt

TH E SISTER S R EVE AL WHAT TO E XPEC T IF YOU R BABY IS BR EECH ne of the things your midwife will check towards the end of your pregnancy is whether or not your baby is in the head-down position. Because a baby’s head is the largest part of their body, it is safer if they are born head first.

While a lot of babies are in fact the wrong way round (or breech) at around 30 weeks, most babies do turn so that they are head down by 36 weeks.

Only about 10 per cent of babies are breech at term. If your baby is breech at 35 weeks your midwife will talk to you about having an ECV (external cephalic version) where an obstetrician will manually try to turn your baby by pushing on your abdomen, using ultrasound to see what they are doing. This is usually done at around 36 weeks – they want the baby to have room to change position, but for it to also not be too early to deliver the baby in case she becomes distressed.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

O

However, this procedure only has a success rate of around 50 per cent. It is safe though; it’s always done by an obstetrician, in hospital and your baby’s heart rate would be constantly monitored. If they were worried about baby, they would stop.

How likely this is to work depends on the position of your baby. It’s less likely to work if your baby’s bottom is firmly lodged in your pelvis, for example, whereas if your baby is lying diagonally, you have a better chance. Having an ECV is not a particularly enjoyable experience. As the obstetrician tries to move your baby, it does feel uncomfortable (you will usually be offered gas and air) and it somehow feels wrong for someone to firmly manipulate your tummy. If you are uncomfortable and want to stop things, you just have to say.

An ECV is not something you need to have. If you’d rather not, that’s absolutely fine. Remember

too, that some babies turn, only to turn back around the next day.

If the ECV fails or if you choose not to have it, you need to think about your birth plan. While it is possible to have a vaginal birth with a baby in the breech position it is generally considered to be more risky. However, recent data suggests that, for some women, the risk might be substantially less, particularly if they have had straightforward vaginal births previously.

Unfortunately though, because vaginal breech deliveries have not been done routinely in the last two decades, many midwives are no longer skilled at doing them. Your own situation should be addressed in this discussion.

If you have had one or more previous vaginal births which have been straightforward, your chance of delivering a breech baby safely is higher. If this is your first birth or if there have been previous complications,

it’s a more risky decision.

The other option is to have a c-section, which is sometimes the safest option under these circumstances.

Finding out your baby is breech can be stressful, especially if you have been looking forward to a natural labour. But just because this part hasn’t quite gone to plan, it doesn’t mean the birth can’t be just as magical. Have an honest conversation with your doctor and embrace the decision you’ve made. What we can promise is that meeting your baby is an amazing moment, as long as you go in with an informed and open mind.

Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South West London. Their podcast, The Parent Hood, is free to download on iTunes and Acast.

Visit thebumpclass.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 97

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW

A BR E AST PUM P IS AN E SSENTIAL IF YOU WANT TO E XPR E SS R EGU L AR LY. Laura Mason PUTS TH E BE ST TO TH E TE ST Best

MANUAL This quiet, compact and lightweight pump is great for when you’re travelling, too

Best

ELECTRIC

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DOUBLE

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HANDS FREE

ON THE GO

PHILIPS AVENT

MEDELA

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YOOMI

A great all-round pump that’s comfortable to use thanks to the super-soft massage cushion that feels gentle and warm when placed on the breast. The unique shape generates an effective milk flow without the need to sit in an unnatural position.

The three varying pump settings help, too. £125, philips.co.uk

For parents looking to increase or maintain their milk supply, this crème de la crème of pumps is an excellent double option.

It offers multiple suction strengths and rechargeable batteries, but the real coup is Medela’s unique 2-Phase Expression technology – a rhythmic system that mimics a feeding baby. £239.99, mothercare.com

be tedious, but this design is very simple to assemble and operate, and naturally allows you more control over the suction movement and strength.

The ergonomic handle reduces hand fatigue, all the while allowing you to focus on your preferred speed and depth, with excellent results. £35, boots.com

The Haakaa works by attaching the pump directly to the breast, giving it an initial squeeze, and letting the natural suction generate the milk.

Feeding from the other breast, hot flannels and other such ‘cheats’ will increase milk flow, but this piece of kit is already impressive – just sit back and let it work its magic!

From £15.99, haakaa.co.uk

The flexibility offered by this compact pump makes it ideal for daily on-thego scenarios whether it’s on holiday, at work, while shopping or at home.

The pump has the option to be used on electric, battery or manual modes, with the added benefit of a USB power adaptor, so you don’t even need to be near a socket. £89.99, yoomi.com

Comfort Single Swing Maxi Manual Pump Electric Double Electric Manual pumping can

98 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Silicone Pump

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN18 | 99

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100 | MAY/JUN18 | babylondon.co.uk

Notting Hill Baby Boutique 99 Talbot Road London W11 2AT

0207 985 0474

29/03/2018 10:12

www.camcamcopenhagen.com

INTERIORS

SET THE TONE

Paint brand Valspar has revealed the nation’s favourite gender-neutral nursery shade with a poll on its Facebook page. The winner, ‘Rabbit’s Foot’, is a soft, muted tone, perfect for stimulating baby’s limited vision in the first few months. Other colours predicted to be popular include sage green and yellow. Shop the entire range at B&Q. valsparpaint.com

interior

NEWS

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

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

SPACE SAVERS

GAME OF THROWS

Dutch brand Coming Kids has arrived in the UK via Cuckooland with a stylish range of multifunctional furniture. The label specialises in bringing the latest interior trends into children’s rooms, with standout pieces including the teepee-inspired cot (below), and a playpen which adapts with your child as they grow.

From £75, cuckooland.com

For a blanket in the home you’ll love long after baby has grown, check out the beautiful creations by Tuwi London. Its designs are made from alpaca fibre, a lightweight, hypoallergenic material known for its thermal qualities, and include iconic Liberty prints. From £185, tuwi.co.uk

Founder Katy Brown started Burch & Brown at the end of 2017 after being unable t fin the er ect gi t

SOFTLY DOES IT Burch & Brown creates a range of cushions and framed fabric prints for children using screenprinting methods. Made by hand from founder Katy Brown’s West London home, the classic pieces add a personal touch to any nursery.

From £15, burchandbrown.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAR/APR 2018 | 101

YOURS TO KEEP

Invest in pieces that grow as your baby does, and you’ll cut costs, produce less waste, and save yourself the hassle of assembling new furniture every few months! Clockwise from top left: this stylish baby changing unit from Vox provides handy storage space for toys and books when your little one no longer needs nappies (£310, cuckooland.com); create furniture for the future with this contemporary Scandinavian changer, which transforms easily into a dresser (£329, mamasandpapas.com); this elegant wooden cot bed makes for a timeless investment piece, with the option to convert into a single bed (£999, boori.com); the iconic and transitional Tripp Trapp highchair ticks every box, with a unique adjustable seat and footplate that provides comfort and solid support for every age (£174, stokke.com).

2-in-1 Belly Bandit Complete adjustability with a double dose of support. Specially designed to work with your body during and after pregnancy. While your bump grows, 2-in-1 Bandit comfortably lifts and supports you in all the right places. Once baby is born, the band serves as a hip wrap to restore that pre-baby shape. Soft, mouldable design with a double wrap for more control over position and amount of pressure.

More products from the Belly Bandit range and a selection of maternity compression hosiery at:

www.pebbleuk.com Freephone 0800 433 4757

richmond practice PRIVATE PRIVATE DOCTORS‘ DOCTORS‘ SERVICE SERVICE

The family doctor.

Playful and smart adorable children’s wear.

Ethically sourced materials, meticulously designed and handmade, I delight in making bespoke creations. www.ykairos.etsy.com y.kairos.london@gmail.com

www.castlesforrascals.co.uk Furniture for a happy planet and a happy child

Redefined.

GP · Paediatrician · Gynaecologist Gynaecologist GP

020 8940 5009

0 2Mon 0 –8Sat9 4and0evenings 5009 Mon – Sat and evenings

Clinical excellence hassle-free Clinical excellence hassle-free babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN18 | 104

FOOD

MOTHER’S MEALS

Unsurprisingly, research has shown that children are least likely to eat green foods. But help is here! Suitable for little ones as soon as they’re happily eating solid foods, the new Quinola Mothergrain Kids meals are packed with fresh veg, meaning baby will chow down on her greens, without even knowing.

From £1.59 each, ocado.com

food

PURE & SIMPLE About to start weaning?

Give baby the very best with new brand Bellota Baby. Its nutritionally balanced offerings are made with fresh, organic and unpasteurised ingredients, with six products to choose from, including veg-packed purées and quinoa and fruit snack balls.

Check online to see if delivery covers your postcode.

From £2.99, bellotababy.com

he ee er fine sie es the t re ent ch ing

NEWS

WE BRING TO TH E TABLE TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST FOOD FOR TH E SMALLE ST OF DIN ER S IT’S A COVER-UP The ingenious Ultrabib from Bibetta has taken on a different look for its collaboration with food writer Annabel Karmel. The designs feature her iconic apple logo in three shades and includes a sleeved version, ensuring baby can now revel in messy mealtimes. From £6.99, bibetta.com

BABY’S FIRST BITE The new self-feeder from OXO Tot is one clever device. Fill the silicone pouch with cooked or frozen food, secure it to the soft-grip handle, and watch as small perforations in the pouch slowly release the food as baby chews. It comes with a cap, too, making it great for eating out. Suitable from six months. £11, amazon.co.uk

WILD CHILD KITCHEN IS THE FARM-TO-TABLE FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE CHANGING HOW CHILDREN EAT. ITS MENU IS BURSTING WITH BOTH FRESH AND FROZEN SEASONAL DISHES, AS WELL AS A RANGE OF SNACKS. BUY A ONE-OFF BOX OR SIGN UP TO A SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE. SUITABLE FROM ONE YEAR. FROM £1.50, WILDCHILDKITCHEN.CO.UK

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 105

FOOD

SPRING EGG AND A S PA R AG U S C U P S Preparation: 8 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes Makes 12 portions Suitable from 6 months

These simple egg cups are quick to whip up and make the perfect on-the-go snack.

INGREDIENTS

• oil or cooking spray for greasing • 10 large eggs, beaten • 40g Parmesan cheese or Cheddar cheese, grated • 2 tbsp full-fat milk • 125g asparagus, chopped • 60g frozen peas (optional) • freshly ground black pepper METHOD

Preheat oven to 180˚C. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin or silicone muffin sheet with cooking spray, or brush with olive oil. Oil well, as this will make washing up much easier!

Lightly steam the asparagus (and peas if using) for a couple of minutes until al dente.

Divide the asparagus and peas evenly among the muffin cups.

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and milk together. Pour the mixture into each cup, filling ½ to ¾ full. Sprinkle cheese into each cup.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until eggs are set.

Cool slightly before removing from the pan.

Don’t be alarmed if the muffins puff up a lot during baking – they will settle while cooling.

106 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

FOOD

IN FANT N UTRITION SPECIALIST Alice Fotheringham SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE SPRINGTIM E R ECIPE S FOR TH E WH OLE FAMILY TO ENJOY

he months of late spring and early summer are a great time for trying new foods, and particularly vegetables.

Farmers’ markets around the capital are bursting with produce at this time of year – and generally it’s sweeter and tastier compared to other times of the year, too.

From fresh asparagus to peas and carrots, spring onions, kale and lots of other glorious greens, the more variety you can get into your young family’s diet, the better, so start small – add a new vegetable to your baby’s morning smoothie or try my delicious vegetable-packed Mediterranean stew for a warming dinner dish. My seasonal egg and asparagus cups are the perfect handheld food for weaning little ones and are great to make with older children, too.

T

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 107

FOOD Make your own nutritious ice lollies with this sweet summer purée

ZESTY GREEN KIWI, KALE AND PE AR WITH BASIL Cooking: 20 minutes Makes 4 portions Suitable from 6 months Suitable for freezing

R O S E M A RY & R O O T V E G E TA B L E S T E W W I T H Q U I N OA Preparation: 25 minutes Cooking: 40 minutes Makes 6 portions Suitable from 6 months Suitable for freezing or keep in the fridge in a sealed container for 2 days

This nutrient-rich meal packed with root veg is also delicious with pasta or meat.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 onion, peeled and chopped finely • 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed • ½ medium butternut squash or pumpkin, peeled and chopped into chunks • 1 beetroot, peeled and chopped into chunks • ½ red pepper deseeded and chopped • 1 courgette, chopped into large chunks • 300ml water • 1 low-salt stock cube • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary • 200g quinoa

METHOD

Heat the olive oil in a heavy based medium saucepan. Once heated, add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for a further 3 minutes.

Add the butternut squash or pumpkin, red pepper and beetroot, and cook for around 10 minutes until the vegetables start to soften, adding a little water if they start to catch on the bottom of the pan. Add the courgette and cook for a further 5 minutes.

Add the crumbled stock cube and water and mix together. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the rosemary and stir.

While the sauce is cooking, put on a pan of boiling water and rinse the quinoa. Cook according to packet instructions.

Once the vegetables are completely cooked, and the water has reduced to coat the vegetables without being too liquidy, remove from the heat and serve with the quinoa. You can purée the vegetables if you want a smooth sauce.

This smooth blend of pear, kale, peas and kiwi is perfect for introducing zingy tart flavours. It also makes delicious ice lollies.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 handful curly kale (approx. 60g) washed, with any thick stems removed • 350g frozen peas • 1 medium ripe pear, peeled, cored and chopped • 1 medium ripe kiwi • 2 basil leaves or ½ tsp dried basil METHOD

In a steamer, steam the kale and peas for around 5 minutes until soft. Drain and refresh with cold water to keep the vegetables green.

To prepare the kiwi, cut in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, add the kiwi and pear to a bowl or blender with the cooked vegetables, and add the basil. Blend to the desired consistency.

Tip: Add a dollop of coconut or dairy yoghurt to make this extra creamy!

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

108 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

The Little London Music School Introducing your child to the joy of music

Music classes for babies, toddlers and children under 5, Designed to prepare your child for learning an instrument.

Taught by professional singers, accompanied by live orchestral instruments.

Enjoy 10% off at checkout with BABYL10

Maternity Nightwear & Loungewear

www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

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110 | MAY/JUN18 | babylondon.co.uk

TRAVEL

ARABIAN NIGHTS

travel

NEWS

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

Escape to the Middle East and enjoy a luxurious three-night stay at Conrad Dubai with its babymoon package.

You’ll be treated to a couples massage, a shopping trip to The Dubai Mall, as well as a private, three-course moonlit dinner. Add to that accommodation in a spacious suite and a full breakfast every morning, and you might never want to leave… Three-night stay from £1,012 for two, conradhotels3.hilton.com

COUNTRY CAMPING After adventures in Morocco and Spain, RoRoRetreats has come back to Blighty with a week-long retreat in North Devon. Glamping hotspot Loveland Farm will play host to yoga, shared meals and family outings, with activities on hand for little ones. Stay in a furnished ‘pod’ or tipi, complete with electricity.

Held 26 May to 2 June. From £750 for seven nights, rororetreats.com

FOR ECO EXPLORERS Opening in May, the five-star Gennadi Grand Resort on the Greek island of Rhodes is a fine example of sustainable design. Located on a secluded stretch of coastline, the hotel’s spa is the star; concealed beneath an eco-friendly ‘green’ roof, it provides a range of mumto-be-friendly treatments. From £223 per night, gennadigrandresort.com

BUMP TO MAT Relax and recharge with the pregnancy yoga retreat at Cliffs of Moher. Journey to Ireland’s west coast on the weekend of 11-13 May and learn how to stay fit and well, with sessions covering meditation, breathing and developing a bond with baby. The price includes all classes, meals and accommodation.

From £316, cliffsofmoherretreat.com

THE AA HAS UNVEILED CORNWALL AS THE UK’S TOP COUNTY FOR FAMILY-FRIENDLY B&BS, FOLLOWED BY DEVON AND SOMERSET. THERE ARE 72 ESTABLISHMENTS REGISTERED IN THE CORNISH COUNTY THAT OFFER ADDITIONAL SERVICES FOR FAMILIES, INCLUDING BABYSITTING. THEAA.COM/BED-AND-BREAKFASTS

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 111

RUNNING HEAD

Going

GREEN

BABYMOONS

Natalie Keeler GOE S IN SE ARCH OF TH E BE ST ECO -IN SPIR ED HOLIDAY DE STINATION S, BOTH WITH AN D WITHOUT BABY

VALSANA HOTEL, SWITZERLAND Short haul Flight time: 1hr 45min For a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery and modern, stylish interiors, Valsana Hotel makes for an idyllic getaway on the border of the Arosa forest. As the first hotel in Switzerland to be powered by ice battery, this hideaway is the ideal spot for couples looking to escape city life and experience nature at its best. The architecture has even been designed to reflect the alpine landscape. Inside, you’ll find tennis courts, a gym and extensive spa facilities, too. Open for its first summer season in June 2018. From £185 per night based on two sharing. valsana.ch/en

112 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

Rejoice at the prospect of some ‘me time’ with personal massages, facials, manicures and more

SON BRULL HOTEL, MALLORCA Short haul Flight time: 2hrs 25min If you’re looking to go off the radar before baby arrives, this rural retreat is sure to hit the spot. The hotel, which has just unveiled a newly-renovated spa, now offers a luxurious selection of treatments designed to help you reconnect with nature. Take a dip in the indoor water-circuit pool, or visit the yoga and meditation room. For those keen to explore, the village of Pollensa is a short walk away, or if you’re feeling up for the challenge, take a short climb to the top of Puig de Maria at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains. From £215 per night based on two sharing, sonbrull.com

THE SCARLET HOTEL, CORNWALL Close to home 5hr drive from London With its spacious interiors, luscious meadow garden and cliff-top hot tubs, this eco-luxury, grown-ups-only retreat proves a great source of last-minute relaxation before baby arrives.

Experience amazing views of Cornwall’s north coast from the comfort of your suite, or enjoy drinks on the terrace before settling down for a sumptuous sunset supper. Inside, enjoy peace and quiet in the spa’s tented treatment rooms, while the hotel’s library also makes for a cosy hideaway. From £330 per night based on two sharing, scarlethotel.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 113

RUNNING HEAD

BABY’S FIRST HOLIDAY FORTE VILLAGE RESORT, SARDINIA Short haul Flight time: 2hrs 45min With more than two million plants populating its vibrant 116-acre park, this tropical paradise has made a mission out of preserving and enhancing the environment – so much so, only bikes and electric vehicles are permitted.

Start your day with a lazy breakfast of mouthwatering sliced meats, warm bread and pastries, followed by a trip to the spa for a cleansing sea-mud body wrap or honey and salt massage. For a mid-morning cool-down, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, or bask in the tranquility of the hotel’s three spectacular pools. From £215 per person, per night; under-twos go free, fortevillageresort.com

114 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD

MOAR GUT KINDERHOTEL, AUSTRIA Short haul Flight time: 1hr 45min This retreat in the market town of Grossarl will ensure baby’s first holiday is a breeze.

Book the dedicated family package and you’ll have access to a range of facilities, including highchairs, buggies and cribs. Childcare is available for babies as young as one month, while the restaurant offers a special menu for tiny taste buds. For parents, a trip to the spa provides the perfect opportunity to relax, but little ones don’t have to miss out completely – Moar Gut even offers gentle massages for its smallest guests. From £149 per person, per night, moargut.com

Pristine waters and endless sunshine? It has to be the Bahamas…

ATLANTIS, BAHAMAS Long haul Flight time: 9hrs If your little one is so well behaved that even the prospect of a nine-hour flight doesn’t faze you, make the most of it and head to this extraordinary aqua-themed resort in the Bahamas. The aptly-named Paradise Island is home to the world’s largest open-air marine habitat, where more than 50,000 species roam freely among lagoons, caves, coral formations and underwater ruins. While many of the on-site activities are better suited to adults, there’s still plenty on offer for parents with a tot in tow, including shallow water interactions with dolphins. From £180 per night based on two adults and a baby, atlantisbahamas.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 115

The luxury resort is surrounded by acres of greenery

ª Postcard from…

QUINTA DO LAGO Rebecca Moore PUTS H ER AU NTIE SKILL S TO TH E TE ST IN PORTUGAL

I

Quinta do Lago comprises one of the three corners of the Algarve’s Golden Triangle

once she was tucked up for the night.

We’d start our days by wandering down to the clubhouse for breakfast, filling ourselves with fresh fruit, pastries and coffee. Visiting out of peak season meant the resort was fairly quiet, allowing Ruby to lap up all the attention from the charming and attentive staff. The breakfast would set us up for our morning stomp to the beach, about 25 minutes on foot.

Everything is spread out to make room for the expansive golf courses, so nothing is particularly close by – and so it does mean packing a lightweight pushchair is a must. The resort also offers a shuttle service to ferry guests to and from the beach.

The beach itself is a spectacular two-mile stretch of gently shelving golden sand, and is reached via a wooden walkway over the Ria Formosa lagoon. And this Blue Flag spot is a toddler’s dream. When Ruby wasn’t eating the sand, she was chucking it into buckets, and hours were spent splashing around in the sea. Thankfully the calm waves are kind to little ones.

Four Seasons Fairways was the ideal spot for Ruby’s first holiday.

And as the resort is set to open its new clubhouse at the beginning of May, with a dedicated kids’ club, I’ll wait patiently, with fingers and toes crossed, to see if my auntie duties are required once again.

From £1,880 for seven nights in a three-bedroom villa in May, fourseasonsfairways.com

Rebecca and Ruby

Chasing waves on the beach

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

never imagined I would be kicking back on a sun-soaked terrace and singing Five Little Speckled Frogs at the same time, but it became something of the norm during our holiday with my 16-monthold niece, Ruby, and her mum, my youngest sister, Kathryn.

Now Ruby was over a year old, Kathryn had decided it was time for her first holiday abroad, but she wanted to bring me along for moral support. We agreed on Portugal, a family-friendly favourite that’s less than three hours away, and more specifically, Quinta do Lago in the Algarve. The area is known for its prized golf facilities, and while golf wasn’t on our agenda, the lush green backdrop and occasional golf buggy would do nicely, we decided.

Faro airport is just a short drive from Quinta do Lago, and what was our base for the week, Four Seasons Fairways resort. The luxury leisure concept has just completed a stunning renovation, with 132 villas all unique in their offering. The overall feel is that of a modern Portuguese house – combining the elegance and style of a luxury hotel with the creature comforts of a traditional and inviting home. Ruby left no time to spare exploring our new set up, as she toddled in and out of the two bedrooms, bathrooms and around the terrace. Equipped with a hot tub and surrounded by beautiful gardens, this sun trap was perfect for lounging while Ruby took her daytime nap, or enjoying an adults-only barbecue

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

Push, pull and slide the tabs in these brilliant rhyming books about first animals!

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www.kerensnursery.com 07/03/2018 18:33 | 117 babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN18

ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL EALING a

m i n i m i s

i n c i p e

Outstanding Catholic Independent school for boys & girls aged 3 - 18

NURSERY & JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING - THURSDAY 24th MAY View our website for a full list of our Open Events or arrange a personal visit with our Registrar, Louise Pepper, on 020 8862 2254 www.stbenedicts.org.uk

Claremont Fan Court School An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

Pre-Preparatory and Nursery School Children join the Pre-Nursery class in the term they turn three.

Please come and visit us.

To arrange an appointment, telephone 01372 463695 or email preprepschool@claremont.surrey.sch.uk

Claremont Fan Court School Claremont Drive Esher Surrey KT10 9LY www.claremontfancourt.co.uk 118 | MAY/JUN18 | babylondon.co.uk

education

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

EDUCATION

NEWS

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

PLAY SCHOOL

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.

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700.

The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

Due to popular demand, Maggie & Rose has opened a standalone nursery in Kensington. Located next door to its original family club on Pembroke Road, the creative space gives children from age one to four-and-a-half the chance to get stuck into a range of activities, including cooking, imaginative play and dance, while following the core EYFS framework. From £45 per session, maggieandrose.com

These wipe-clean cards will be sa e r stic fingers t

FLASHCARD FUN ARTY A TO Z Here’s a new way to teach your child the alphabet, with the quirky typographic posters from Betty The Dog. Designer Rachel McBride created the typeface almost a decade ago, and has now reinvented it for little ones. Currently available as A3 prints and postcards. £20, etsy.com/bettythedog

From numbers to colours, animals and the alphabet, help your toddler grasp the basics with the new range of Get Set Go flashcards.

The sets each contain 27 cards, with the ‘object’ in question on one side, and a contextualised example on the other. £5.99, Miles Kelly

A HANDWRITING SCHEME IS BEING ROLLED OUT IN SCHOOLS AFTER TRIALS PRODUCED OUTSTANDING RESULTS. THE MATCH FIT ASSESSMENT FROM START-BEE COMBINES E-LEARNING WITH PRACTICAL EXERCISES AND EQUIPMENT WHICH TEACHERS CAN USE TO TRACK PROGRESS. YPO.CO.UK/START-BEE

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 119

EDUCATION

The best

start

U N DER STAN DING YOU R CHILD’S N U R SERY EDUCATION CAN FEEL OVERWH ELMING .

Georgina Blaskey E XPLOR E S TH E OP TION S TH E CAPITAL HAS TO OFFER

hen choosing how to start your toddler on their education journey, it’s not unusual to feel both spoilt for choice and overwhelmed with questions at the same time. How many hours a day and days a week do you want them to attend?

Do you want them to spend a lot of time outside? How big do you want the school to be? Should it be part of a primary school? This stage is your child’s first rung on the learning ladder – it’s exciting and no doubt you’re eager to make the right call. The schools outlined below are for children aged two-and-a-half to five, they should offer the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) curriculum and are usually Ofsted registered, but do check with your local education provider.

W

NURSERY SCHOOLS Traditional nursery schools usually operate during term time only and follow the school calendar. Some may be linked to a primary school. Although all early years establishments follow the EYFS curriculum, nursery schools provide more educational exercises and assessments that aim to prepare children for primary school education. This will involve literacy, numeracy and creative learning, alongside plenty of play time and rest time.

Pros: Your child will have the chance to spend time with teachers and other children in a semi-formal environment, which is a good introduction to school life. Children will start many of the routines which will continue to be used in their Reception class, such as circle

120 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

time, snack time and break time, and in some cases they might have homework diaries and even introduce early reading and writing skills.

Often the class will perform plays and have an informal sports day, too.

Cons: For some parents (and children!) the formal structure may feel too much like real school too early on. There may be more time spent indoors than you would like, due to resources and limited access to local parks, and some young children may not like the ‘busyness’ of the classroom.

MONTESSORI NURSERY SCHOOLS The Montessori method was founded by Maria Montessori in 1907 and is the largest education movement in the world – there are over 22,000 Montessori nurseries worldwide and more than 600 in the UK. The fundamental belief is that children have the most capacity to learn during their early years (from birth to six years old) and learning is child-led at their own pace.

Specialised educational materials developed

by Montessori made out of natural, aesthetic materials such as wood, rather than plastic, are organised by subject area, and freedom of movement is encouraged around the classroom.

Pros: A specifically trained Montessori teacher tracks each child and is highly experienced in observing the individual child’s characteristics, tendencies, innate talents and abilities.

Learning is hands-on with meticulously

designed learning aids, and children progress at their own pace. Age groups can be mixed to foster peer-to-peer learning as children become fascinated by what one another are doing. Children become independent in their decision making and often remain curious learners in later life.

Cons: The looser curriculum could lead some children to feel behind when starting school (for example, if they haven’t learnt to write yet and some of their peer group in Reception have) and independent learning could lead some children to go back to the same activity day after day.

EDUCATION

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR NURSERY OR PRE-SCHOOL Gettherightschool.co.uk has complied these queries to help guide you

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

FOREST SCHOOLS Outdoor learning has been the buzzword across many disciplines of education for some time now, but forest schools take it to another level. All time is spent outside, including nap time and snack time – even toilet time! However, the curriculum for many forest school nurseries has been developed to meet the seven areas of learning as set out in the EYFS through a variety of outdoor play activities designed to foster a love for learning through exploration. For example, numbers and counting are encouraged by looking at trees and birds; shapes and colours are aided

by leaves and feathers; nature is explored using water, air and earth.

Pros: It creates resilient, independent, curious learners. It’s good for children who struggle to focus in a normal classroom setting and prefer a more active way to learn. It can help children learn to take risks and keeps children active, to develop healthy bodies and good stamina.

Cons: It can be tough on a very cold day or weeks. It’s not for everyone – visit a forest school and make sure it will suit your child.

Some children may find it a challenge to adapt to indoor school routines when they start at primary school.

• What resources and equipment do you have to support children’s learning?

• How are activities organised to meet the Early Years Foundation Stage?

• Do you provide any additional help and support to under-fives with special education needs?

• How many children do you have attending?

• What sort of activities do the children do?

• How is the average day/session organised?

• How do staff manage bad behaviour?

• What qualifications and experience do the staff have?

• How long have you been operating?

• Do you have outdoor and indoor areas for children to play and learn?

• Do children have a rest during the day?

• What time do sessions start and finish?

• Is there a sibling policy?

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 121

HYPNOBIRTHING

I run group and private courses to parents that want to learn how to release that fear of birth and to be able to relax and enjoy pregnancy. No matter if it is your first or second birth, or how far you are in your pregnancy, HypnoBirthing will help you to relax and create a special bond with your baby.

HYPNOTHERAPY for Parents

Helping parents to deal with stress, anxiety, self-confidence, depression, addictions and teaching self-hypnosis techniques to practice at anytime.

HYPNOTHERAPY for Children While working with children’s imagination I help kids to change unwanted habits (thumb sucking, tics, bad eating patterns, bedwetting) and to deal with anxiety, self-confidence and bullying. My approach is very safe and gentle with an aim for kids to enjoy the session.

CHELSEA, BELGRAVIA, GLOUCESTER ROAD, PIMLICO E: chelsea.westminster@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8767 9827 PUTNEY, BARNES, FULHAM E: putneybarnesfulham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8480 6064 MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, HAMPSTEAD, KENSINGTON, NOTTING HILL E: hampstead.nottinghill@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8438 0189

www.evahypnotherapy.com Based in Bayswater and South Kensington

Fun French Lessons Innovative immersion programme Highly recommended by BBC, Time Out, Daily Telegraph and Daily Express

020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

Artistic. Relaxed. Timeless. www.samantha-black.com

Horkesley Joinery Ltd Bespoke Wooden • Stair Gates • Fire Guards • Stair Refurbs 01206 271 509 info@horkesleyjoinery.co.uk www.horkesleyjoinery.co.uk

122 | MAY/JUN18 | babylondon.co.uk

Est. 1993

Venues across London

OUT AND ABOUT

mini

AGENDA

Lianne Kolirin ROU N DS U P TH E CAPITAL’S BE ST EVENTS

PHOTOGRAPHY: DAN TSANTILIS

Peppa Pig’s Adventure!

Peppa Pig’s Adventure!

Leaf

Foodies Festival

Fertility Fest 2018

RICHMOND THEATRE Little Green, Richmond TW9 1Q J 020 8332 4527 atgtickets.com/richmond

LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE 14 Dagmar Passage, Islington, London N1 2DN 020 7226 1787 littleangeltheatre.com

SYON PARK Park Road, Isleworth, Brentford TW7 6AZ foodiesfestival.com

BUSH THEATRE 7 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London W12 8LJ 020 8743 5050 fertilityfest.com

Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on a camping trip in the woods with her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunchboxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure. Expect games, laughter and live music.

Admission: From £16.25 each.

Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 May, performance times vary.

Follow the life story of a very special leaf in this warm, intimate and playful piece for under-threes inspired by nature and the seasons. At the end of each performance, children are invited onto the stage to play among the leaves and explore the changing seasons.

Admission: Adults, £13; children, £11.

Monday 18 June, 10am, 11.30am and 2.30pm.

The UK’s biggest celebration of food and drink returns to Syon Park. Sample delicacies from around the world and take part in cookery sessions, including several for children.

The festival also features a dedicated kids’ zone complete with face painting, a craft area, giant garden games and more.

Admission: Adults, £26; children, £5.

Saturday 26 to Monday 28 May, from 11am.

Fertility Fest is the world’s first arts festival dedicated to fertility, infertility, modern families and the science of making babies. Some 150 artists and experts will come together in a packed programme of events, entertainment, film screenings, discussion, debate and support.

Admission: Day tickets, £35 each.

Tuesday 8 to Sunday 13 May.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 123

OUTLego AND Reef ABOUT

Little Meerkat’s Big Panic

OAE Tots: King Arthur

Family Gardening Festival

Lego Reef

OAE Tots: King Arthur

Here Be Dragons

LEGOLAND Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY legoland.co.uk

ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX southbankcentre.co.uk

KEW PALACE Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Richmond TW9 3AE 020 3166 6000 hrp.org.uk

New for 2018, Lego Reef invites you to dive deep and build sea creatures out of virtual bricks using touchscreen technology.

Kids can create the virtual fish, before watching them swim through the interactive floor-to-ceiling coral reef.

Admission: From £30 each; under-threes go free.

Daily, from 10am.

Meet a gaggle of characters through music with a narrative, in these interactive workshops focused on the story of King Arthur. Run by Orchestra of the Age of the Enlightenment, little ones will love engaging with the musicians and instruments.

Admission: Adults, £9; under-twos go free.

Saturday 30 June, 10.30am and 12pm.

Father’s Day Weekend Rave FIRE & LIGHTBOX 6A South Lambeth Place, Vauxhall, London SW8 1SP bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk In time for Father’s Day, the wonderful people at Big Fish Little Fish are throwing another great family rave. So, grab your dad by the hand and prepare to party. Expect loads of arts and crafts, as well as funky music.

Admission: Adults, £10; children, £7; pre-walkers go free.

Saturday 16 June, 2pm to 4.30pm.

124 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Covent Garden May Fayre & Puppet Festival ST PAUL’S CHURCH Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9ED alternativearts.co.uk This annual festival marks the anniversary of Samuel Pepy’s first recorded sighting of a Punch & Judy show in England in 1662, and the 356th birthday of Mr Punch himself. As well as a traditional puppet show, there will be a brass band, live music, dance performances and more.

Admission: Free.

Sunday 13 May, 11am to 5pm.

To mark the re-opening of the Great Pagoda at Kew, little ones will be able to enter the world of dragonologists in this exhibition and sculpture trail.

It’s time to find the five fearsome dragons located around the gardens!

Admission: Included in entrance to Kew Gardens.

Adults, from £16; children, £4; under-fours go free.

From Sunday 1 April.

Little Meerkat’s Big Panic G LIVE London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA 01483 739047 glive.co.uk It’s a big day in the Kalahari: it’s Little Meerkat’s first day on lookout duty. This multisensory, musical adventure explores how to cope with big feelings.

Admission: £9.50 each.

Saturday 23 June, 10am, 12pm and 2.30pm.

Family Gardening Festival RHS GARDEN WISLEY Wisley Lane, Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley With a special ‘Get Set, Grow!’ theme for May half term, little gardeners can get hands-on with practical activities and themed crafts, including planting, potato and spoon races, face painting and more.

Admission: Adults, £14.50; children, £7.25; under-fours go free.

Saturday 26 May to Sunday 3 June, from 10am.

Early Years Art Safari CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN 66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HS chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Meet the creatures of the garden and explore their habitats. Pre-schoolers can pond-dip for tadpoles and newts, as well as hunt for minibeasts. There will also be themed crafting sessions.

Admission: Adults, £10.50; children, £6.95.

Tuesday 29 May, 10.30am and 1pm.

OUT AND ABOUT

Trooping the Colour

Colour: The Rainbow Revealed

The Fair In The Square

Giffords Circus

Sensacional

This Is My Bed

Trooping the Colour

CHISWICK HOUSE & GARDENS Great West Road, Chiswick, London W4 2QN 0845 459 7469 giffordscircus.com

UNICORN THEATRE Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com

THE MALL AND ST JAMES’S PARK London SW1 householddivision.org.uk

Sensacional is a sound and light show in which toddlers participate. Bursting with colour and joy, watch as your little one becomes part of a sensory world with shapes and squiggles that won’t stay still.

Admission: £10 per child and accompanying adult.

Wednesday 25 April to Sunday 1 July, performance times vary.

Full of fabulous songs, characters and animation, This Is My Bed is the latest in a line of award-winning operas for children – this time, about bedtime and dreams, and a bed with a mind of its own!

Admission: £12.50 each.

Wednesday 13 to Sunday 24 June, performance times vary.

If you haven’t seen it before, Giffords offers a different kind of circus experience. This year, it celebrates the birth of the circus, which happened near Westminster Bridge in 1768. It promises to be spectacular, so book your tickets now.

Admission: From £15 each.

Thursday 28 June to Saturday 9 July.

The Fair In The Square POND SQUARE & SOUTH GROVE Highgate Village, London N6 6BS fairinthesquare.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: GARETH JONES

Sensacional

This pretty corner of North London comes alive with fun, music, entertainment, food, drink and lots to do for this annual celebration. Regular attractions include fairground rides, face painting and even a sheep shearing show.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 16 June, 12.30pm.

Really Wild Weekends

Colour: The Rainbow Revealed

WWT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London SW13 9WT wwt.org.uk

HORNIMAN MUSEUM 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London, SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 horniman.ac.uk

Get set for two action-packed weekends where you can marvel at meerkats, armadillos, snakes and lizards. Plus, come face to face with giant bugs!

Admission: Adults, £11.45; children, £6.95; under-fours go free.

Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 May and Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 June.

This award-winning exhibition explores the endless ways in which colour shapes our world.

It is also full of family-friendly displays, including an Art Machine for you to create your own masterpiece, a Mood Room and a Colour Café.

Admission: Adults, £7.70; children, £4.40.

Until Sunday 28 October.

If you’re still in the spirit of all things royal, join in with the Queen’s official birthday celebrations and find a good spot to watch the 1,400-soldier parade, together with 200 horses and over 400 musicians.

Don’t miss the fly-past at 1pm!

Admission: Free.

Saturday 9 June, from 10am.

World of Dinosaurs PARADISE WILDLIFE PARK White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne EN10 7QA 01992 470490 pwpark.com Meet life-size animatronic dinosaurs this brand new attraction. Set in acres of woodland, World of Dinosaurs features 30 moving and roaring dinosaurs – a real thrill for any mini adventurer! Make the most of the day by exploring this lovely family zoo while there.

Admission: Adults, £18.70; children, £15.40; under-twos go free.

Daily, 9.30am to 6pm.

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 125

SUBSCRIBE TO LITTLE LONDON

OUT AND ABOUT

1 YEAR for just £19.50 Special Children’s Day

Special Children’s Day

West End Live

ZSL LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo

TRAFALGAR SQUARE London WC2N 5DN westendlive.co.uk

London’s wonderful zoo is making an extra special fuss of children with special needs this May. This weekend is packed full of activities, including costumed characters, sensory storytelling and an art zone.

Admission: Adults, £13.25; children, £9; under-threes go free.

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 May, 10am to 6pm.

Canalway Cavalcade

This is an unmissable showcase of the best that London’s West End has to offer, with excerpts from some of London’s biggest theatrical hits staged amid a festival atmosphere. There are usually plenty of stalls around the area too, making it possible to spend a whole day here.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 June, event times vary.

Transbook Exhibition

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

DISCOVER CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE 383-387 High Street, Stratford, London E15 4QZ discover.org.uk

One of the capital’s hidden gems once again comes alive for this annual celebration of its famous waterways. Have your cameras at the ready for the colourful narrowboats, bunting and flowers. There will be plenty of music, food, drink and lots for families to do, too.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 5 to Monday 7 May, individual event times vary.

To coincide with half term, Discover is staging a unique exhibition for kids of all ages.

Authors from across Europe take families on a sensory adventure, exploring textures, paper, inks and transparencies, as they invite you to experience books in unexpected ways.

Admission: £6.50 each.

Monday 28 May to Friday 1 June, 11am to 4pm.

126 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

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Groups & Classes A SELEC TION OF LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

FOR LITTLE LEARNERS

MUSIC FOR LITTLE ONES

Workshops across London Check out the Little Discovery classes for ages six months to 24 months old.

These allow babies to explore their senses with music, colours and shapes.

Little Maths Rhythm & Shapes and Little Science are two after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps into the world of numbers and science that much easier. The Little Maths workshops, for two to four year olds, builds their confidence with numbers.

While the Little Science workshop, for ages three to 11 years, introduces new scientific concepts through discussions and experiments.

0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com

Classes and kids’ parties Jingle Jam Music runs jazz-inspired classes and parties for children aged five and under. By using songs, sounds and stories, these 45-minute sessions, run by professional jazz musicians, allow young children to benefit from a variety of musical stimulation. They require child and adult participation, which helps develop social skills such as sharing, expression and confidence.

“What a band! They’ll elevate your children’s party into a festival of coolness and art. There will still be sick everywhere, and tantrums, but the quality of jazz will distract you.” – Russell Brand.

07905 979024 jinglejamkids.co.uk

NURTURE A LIFETIME OF MUSIC

FUN FRENCH LESSONS FOR CHILDREN

COOKING ACTIVITIES FOR LITTLE CHEFS

FUNKY PRE-SCHOOL DANCE CLASSES FOR BOYS AND GIRLS

Chelsea, Putney, Notting Hill and St John’s Wood/Maida Vale Club Petit Pierrot, London’s premier French club since 1993, offers innovative, stimulating immersion programmes for children from eight months old. Led by a team of passionate and qualified native teachers, children will flourish and learn French effortlessly while having fun with a wide range of activities.

Language experts agree that learning a second language early in life enhances overall cognitive skills and improves brain development.

020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

Hosting cooking classes and birthday parties in your own home Kids en Cuisine cooking classes are the perfect way to show little chefs how to cook flavoursome dishes. Even from an early age, it’s important children learn the benefits of a healthy, balanced diet. Your child will gain experience using various cooking items to help them develop their fine motor skills and senses in a safe environment, plus expand their vocabulary. Little chefs will try new flavours, textures and learn while having fun. All activities take place at home.

020 3015 2966 info@kidsencuisine.com kidsencuisine.com

Classes across London Diddi Dance runs funky preschool dance classes, exploring 16 different dance styles from hip hop and bollywood to salsa and jive.

Encouraging endless enthusiasm and energy, little movers will love these action-packed 45-minute sessions.

Each class is suitable for boys and girls aged from 18 months, however, lots of younger children love it too, so – to see if your toddler will enjoy it – why not contact your local Diddi Dance franchise today? Enjoy a free trial or book in for a half term block.

07973 982790 info@diddidance.com diddidance.com

Classes across London Monkey Music offers award-winning classes for children aged three months to four years. The company has 20 years’ experience of captivating little ones with a combination of songs, instruments and props. Its 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. Visit the website for a timetable and to book your complimentary session. monkeymusic.com

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 127

London boutiques BODEN

Since its launch in 1991, Boden has been paving the way for timeless womenswear, menswear and childrenswear with a twist. The kids’ collections, Mini Boden and Baby Boden, are inspired by the best parts of childhood, with storytelling prints and colourful appliqué. The brand opened its flagship store on the Kings Road last year, with a whole floor dedicated to Mini and Baby Boden.

20-23 DUKE OF YORK SQUARE, CHELSEA, LONDON SW3 4LY boden.co.uk

NEWBIE

Sustainable Swedish brand Newbie has finally brought its super-soft organic clothing for babies and children to the UK. The classic, ethically made pieces feature colour palettes and prints inspired by nature and coordinating collections from season to season.

28 GEORGE STREET, RICHMOND, LONDON TW9 1HJ 17 CHURCH STREET, KINGSTON, LONDON KT1 1RW newbiestore.com

LA COQUETA

Inspired by the childhood of founder and mother of five, Celia Muñoz, La Coqueta’s collection channels the sweeter, more old-fashioned look of the Spanish aesthetic faultlessly. Timeless smock designs, ruffled collars, vintage-style frocks and delicate pointelle knits are given a contemporary twist with fresh cuts, rich colours and modern prints.

STORES ACROSS LONDON lacoquetakids.com

CARAMEL

Founder and director Eva Karayiannis launched Caramel back in 1999, after spotting a gap in the market while shopping for her daughters. With an emphasis on clothing that is both beautiful and tough-wearing, only the finest materials – from cashmere and lambswool to linen and leather – are used to craft each piece.

STORES ACROSS LONDON caramel-shop.co.uk

MARIE-CHANTAL

Founded by HRH Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, this beautiful childrenswear collection is made from the most luxurious fabrics, including pure cotton and cashmere. In the boutiques you’ll find traditional-meets-contemporary pieces for babies, girls and boys from newborn up to 12 years. The comprehensive collection of baby essentials includes cosy sleep suits, cotton rompers and bib sets.

STORES AND CONCESSIONS ACROSS LONDON mariechantal.co.uk

BONPOINT

Bonpoint has to be the haute couture of children’s fashion, with in-house design studios and stores all over the globe. Under the artistic direction of Christine Innamorato, each piece from the Parisian boutique is meticulously hand-crafted to exacting standards. Its clothing features signature detailing and unrivalled quality fabrics, catering for stylish boys, girls and babies.

STORES ACROSS LONDON bonpoint.com

128 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

Online boutiques NINE IN THE MIRROR

Luxury maternity boutique Nine in the Mirror is out to prove that being pregnant most certainly does not result in a diminished sense of style. Featuring a mix of top designers and fashionable maternity brands, every piece has been chosen to flatter your new shape. You can also pick up goodies for your new arrival, and shop the recommended wardrobe essentials that you’ll still be reaching for post-pregnancy. nineinthemirror.com

ALEX AND ALEXA

Home to more than 200 fashion, sportswear and toy brands from across the world, Alex and Alexa is one of the coolest online boutiques around. Founded a decade ago by husband and wife team Alex Theophanous and Alexa Till, the site remains dedicated to offering parents ‘the world’s best kids’ brands’ at the click of button. Shop standout pieces from the likes of Stella McCartney Kids, Chloé, Burberry, Fendi and more. alexandalexa.com

SMALLABLE

Smallable is the French-born online concept store stocking a whole range of designers from across the globe – from well-known names to newer, emerging labels. Shop a selection of fashion, furniture, toys and decorations, with clothing sizes from newborn to age 16. And the next time you’re in Paris, take a trip to its bricks-and-mortar store in the St Germain-des-Près quarter for a hearty dose of Gallic je ne sais quoi. en.smallable.com

SCARLET RIBBON MERINO

Keep your little one warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and every day in between, by wrapping them up in nature’s best. Scarlet Ribbon Merino makes knitted daywear for babies aged up to 18 months from the finest merino wool. Combining quality with everyday practicality, Scarlet Ribbon Merino’s knitwear is versatile and long-lasting; something to treasure and pass down to younger siblings.

STOCKISTS

PHOTOGRAPHY: SARAH WINBORN

scarletribbonmerino.com

Marli wears cotton top and trousers set, £16, Marks & Spencer

Arsène et les Pipelettes

arseneetlespipelettes.com

Bonpoint

bonpoint.com

Caramel

caramel-shop.co.uk

Harrods

harrods.com

Liberty

libertylondon.com

Little Creative Factory

littlecreativefactory.com

Marks & Spencer

marksandspencer.com

Olive Loves Alfie

olivelovesalfie.co.uk

Olli Ella

olliella.com

Rachel Riley

rachelriley.co.uk

Scandiborn

scandiborn.co.uk

Smallable

en.smallable.com

Tootsa

tootsa.com

Velveteen

velveteenclothing.com

Vild House of Little

vildhouseoflittle.com

Wild & Gorgeous

wildandgorgeous.co.uk

Young Soles

youngsoles.co.uk

babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2018 | 129

BUSINESS

Babies can get their first taste of the Mediterranean from the age of six months

The products are made from scratch using fresh ingredients

INSPIRE What inspired you to set up Piccolo in the first place?

It started while I was pregnant with my daughter, Juliet. I just couldn’t find anything that resembled what I had grown up eating. I wanted to give her tasty yet nutritious meals using only organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. Having worked in the charitable sector for many years [Cat is the former CEO of Slow Food UK], it was also important to me to give back – Piccolo is committed to giving to 10 per cent of profits to charity, as well as working with amazing organisations like the NCT, Tommy’s and The Trussell Trust.

How is Piccolo different to other baby food on the market?

We really focus on sourcing the best ingredients, and that usually means using small producers.

The recipes are steeped in the Mediterranean approach to food, too, which helps ensure little ones develop a great palate.

Describe a typical day for you.

Every day revolves around my four-year-old daughter and her nursery timings – once that’s

130 | MAY/JUN 2018 | babylondon.co.uk

CATHERINE GAZZOLI The founder of organic baby food brand Piccolo talks family, giving back and cooking the Mediterranean way sorted I could be doing anything from meeting a new retailer to working on new recipes with our in-house nutritionist, Alice.

Tell us about your charity, The Food Education Foundation.

We set it up to provide advice on a child’s food journey from the start. Alice and I run workshops across the UK to educate families about what to feed their children without having to spend too much money or time.

You were the first food brand to be backed by the NCT, what impact has that had on business?

We have had a fantastic relationship with the NCT since we launched two years ago. The support has meant consumers have an extra element of trust and reassurance in our products.

You’re also the first ever Fairtrade baby food brand, why was that important to you?

We’re really proud of the ethical standards we uphold to our suppliers. Working with Fairtrade produce has always been one of our sustainability goals, and we’re so happy that our Pure range has made it possible.

We’re honoured to be supporting such an important initiative.

What advice would you give to other women who want to start their own company?

Just do it. It’s the best, most exciting and at times challenging journey you’ll ever embark on but the pride you feel when someone tells you how much you’ve helped them makes it all worth it.

It’s a rewarding experience seeing the whole development of your own brand.

What’s next for Piccolo?

We’re always thinking about how best to help develop babies’ taste buds, and know that introducing them to texture is important, which is why we recently introduced Stage 3 Piccolo Pots to our range. They use different types of veg in Mediterranean sauces, which are kept separate to the accompanying grains like quinoa and ditalini pasta to maximise the texture. Alongside these is our new multigrain snack range, Piccolo Squares. We’re also spending the summer touring the UK, giving weaning masterclasses, and can’t wait to get out there and meet parents! mylittlepiccolo.com

Š2018. All rights reserved Young Soles. Photography by Emma Donnelly.

A cool treat for little feet www.youngsoles.co.uk Use code BLM18 for 10% off all orders Promotional code only applicable to footwear bought from the official Young Soles website. Offer expires 31 May 2018.

FINE CASTING & BESPOKE HAND ENGRAVED JEWELLERY Telephone 020 8769 4757 Mobile 07977 477 518 enquiries@philippaherbert.co.uk www.philippaherbert.co.uk philippa_herbert Registered Charity no. 1167073