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DECEMBER 2019 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK
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baby TH E LUXU RY PR E G N AN C Y &
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25-PAGE GUIDE INSIDE THIS ISSUE
BEAUTY
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PREGNANCY TREATMENTS
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HOW TO HANDLE LEAVING BABY OVERNIGHT
EXPERT ADVICE
THE TRAVEL ISSUE
McFly’s dad of three
TOM FLETCHER
talks fatherhood
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WE REVEAL THE BEST BABY BATHS
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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2019
FEATURES
48 A MOTHER’S ROLE German model and actress Diane Kruger opens up about her experience of motherhood so far 52 BEHIND THE BRAND: STOKKE Natalie Keeler meets the global brand communication director of the children’s furniture manufacturer 57 PARTY TIME: THE ESSENTIALS In this issue, Carole Middleton recommends her top party essentials 86 BEAUTY & THE BUMP Martha Alexander explores the good, the bad and the ugly beauty treatments for expectant mothers 90 TIME TO SAY GOODBYE A challenge for many, Georgina Blaskey looks at how to cope when you leave baby for the first time 96 BEDROOM BATTLES Sustaining your sex life after birth isn’t easy; Zoey Goto investigates how to stay intimate in a post-baby relationship
Shoes, £105, Sophia Webster at Alex and Alexa
Actress Dia ne Kruger reveals she’ for her youn s excited g daughter to explore th e world
STYLE
38 BABIES UNWRAPPED The sweetest party pieces for baby this season 46 AHEAD OF THE CURVE Antonia O’Brien shares her favourite pre and postnatal wardrobe lust-haves
SHOPPING
23 BABY LOVES This month, we’re coveting Binibamba and Charlie Crane’s super-snug creation 25 SHOP THE THEMES Say hello to winter with this season’s latest offerings
PHOTOGRAPHY: LOL JOHNSON
FOOD & TRAVEL
59 ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES The 2020 edition guide to family travel 101 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest edible treats for babies and toddlers 102 HOME COMFORTS Alice Fotheringham from
38 Piccolo shares a few delicious dishes for baby to enjoy 107 TRAVEL NEWS Keen to escape the winter chill? These are the hottest new getaways and products for young families 108 POSTCARD FROM SINGAPORE Laura Mason enjoys a unique family break in this colourful, cosmopolitan city Be inspired by our pick of new-season baby buys on p.25
REGULARS 15
BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small 20 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you busy this month 21 WIN! A MICRALITE TRAVEL BUNDLE Here’s how you can win Micralite travel goodies, worth over £700
baby-magazine.co.uk | 5
52
EDITORIAL Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Editor-at-Large Kate Freud Editor Rebecca Moore Sub Editor Natalie Keeler Freelance Sub Editor Sally Jones Editorial Assistant Henrietta Easton Online Editor Ruby Norris
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West
DESIGN Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Freelance Designer Matt Bookman
PUBLISHING Chairman Paul Dobson Chief Operating Officer Kevin Petley Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin Director of Media James Dobson Circulation Manager Daniel Webb EA to Chairman Sarah Porter
ADVERTISING Sales Director Cameron Hay Head of Market Julie Price Senior Sales Executive Miranda Gyamfi Ma Sales Executive Emma Cain
33 MY ESSENTIALS We chat to musician and author Tom Fletcher about children’s books, baby brands and life with three young boys 36 COSY READS Are you sitting comfortably? Emma O’Donovan reveals the best books to snuggle up with in the colder months 45 LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month, from stylish strollers to festive family events 50 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus new mum Sarah Newey and baby Ella put the Babystyle Oyster 3 to the test 85 HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS From skincare to baby tech, these are the latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing 89 Q&A WITH ZITA WEST Struggling to get pregnant again after having your first child? The fertility expert offers her advice
102
CHELSEA CREATE Managing Director Steve Ross Partnerships Director Lyndal Beeton Baby is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: baby-magazine.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 Email: baby@chelseamagazines.com
McFly’s Tom Fl etcher reveals what his children really think of his kids ’ book s
93 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Professor Amy Brown gives an insight into what you should expect during your first feed with baby, with tips to get you through the early days 95 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt address your concerns and questions about the zika virus during pregnancy 98 THE REVIEW From space savers to the top tubs for newborns, Laura Mason makes a splash as she rounds up the best baths for babies 111 NURSERY NEWS What’s going on in early years and beyond, including pre-school initiatives and the latest educational toys 112 BOUTIQUES Home to organic products and gorgeous kidswear, here’s our pick of the most beautiful baby boutiques nationwide 114 INSPIRE We meet Gudrun Wurm, founder of baby skincare brand Little Butterfly London, to talk business and family life
BABY (print) ISSN 2516-5178 BABY (online) ISSN 2517-813X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2019 All rights reserved
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PHOTOGRAPHY: LOL JOHNSON Pearl wears dress, £72, Stella McCartney
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Ahh! There’s nothing sweeter than a little layered-up baby Sproet and Sprout at alexandalexa.com Wool-blend mittens £19, petit-bateau.co.uk
EDITORS
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REBECCA MOORE, EDITOR
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We’d love to see pics of you and your bump, or baby, with our current issue
Nuna leaf curv rocker £180, mothercare.com
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your post-baby relationship. See for yourself on page 96. This turn in weather may also have you yearning for a great escape, so I’m delighted to steer you in the direction of our dedicated family travel guide, Ultimate Family Escapes, which starts on page 59. Jam-packed with more travel inspiration than you can shake a passport at, from the best staycation spots in the West Country to all-singing, all-dancing kids’ clubs across the globe, the guide is designed to help you make an informed choice when travelling en famille. And lastly, if, like me, you’re a sucker for all things cute and cosy, I strongly urge you to check out our adorable shopping pages showcasing the finest winter warmers starting on page 25 – preferably to be perused while under a blanket on the sofa. Be sure to join me next issue when we go Christmas crazy. Until then, happy reading.
O
Monogram sheepskin slippers £128, raefeather.com
I can’t quite believe we’re on our December issue already – where has this year gone?! Although I’m not complaining too much. I adore this season, not only because of the fabulous run-up to Christmas, but digging out the chunky knits, rendezvousing with winter coats, and seeing all the blooming beautiful cosy baby attire in shop windows – plus dosing up on hot chocolates and comforting hearty dishes as we prepare for the season ahead. The run-up to Christmas might see you experiencing new things as a parent for the first time. If you happen to be treating yourself to an adult-only getaway before the chaos sets in, you might be feeling apprehensive about leaving your baby. Be sure to read Georgina Blaskey’s reassuring piece on Taking Time Off on page 90 that’ll have you feeling comforted in no time at all. As the temperature drops a few notches, you may find yourself craving the intimacy you once had before bottles and nappy changes were order of the day. Although your sex life may have taken a back step, Zoey Goto speaks to some of the leading experts in women’s postnatal health, to keep the spark alive in
A Z I N E .C
@baby_magazine_uk
baby-magazine.co.uk | 9
Where were you born? I was born in Farnborough, Kent. The best thing about the darker evenings? Cosying up in front of a fire, with crumpets and jam, a family board game, knowing we don’t have to leave the house and do anything! Most memorable holiday? Oman. The combination of seaside and mountains, desert and canyons, was amazing. Georgina explores the notions of leaving your baby for the first time on p.90
Where were you born? I was born in Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital in London. The best thing about the darker evenings? It’s a tad easier to get my baby to sleep in the evening. Most memorable holiday? Taking my eldest daughter to Botswana on safari – it was mind-blowing! Zoey speaks to experts to give advice on relationships post-baby on p.96
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Where were you born? I was born in Birmingham. The best thing about the darker evenings? I love the cosiness of snuggling up as a family on the sofa to watch a movie all wrapped in blankets with the fire on. Most memorable holiday? Disney World as a child. There’s something so magical about seeing your childhood heroes come to life! Laura rounds up the best baby baths on p.98
BABY O NL INE
When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment to s are di in and et your daily di ital
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Everything you need to know about pregnancy and parenting
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D L O C ’ S T I Y BAB OUTSIDE! fu ll of natu rally ou r mo ist ur ise r is packed pe rf ect fo r de riv ed ingr ed ients, an d is IN. mo ist ur isi ng little on es SK s ev en su itable It’ s so mi ld an d ge nt le , it’ fo r people fo r se ns iti ve skin AN D safe ma. wh o may be pr on e to ecze ch ilds farm .com
O F TH E M O N TH
Elizabeth PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAVID WAITSON
Eight-month-old Elizabeth lives in Hertfordshire with mum, Nicola and dad, David. Rarely seen without her Peter Rabbit books, which she carries around in her walker, she also loves people blowing raspberries on her tummy! WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY HERE? UPLOAD YOUR FAVOURITE SNAP AT BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK/BABY-OF-THE-MONTH Entries close at 11:59pm on 17 October 2019.
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UPDATING YOU ON ALL THINGS GRE AT AND SMALL
LIKE MOTHER LIKE DAUGHTER
When introducing her daughter to the world, Maeve + Me founder Katrina felt she deserved a matching fashion moment to feel beautiful with her baby. She created the brand to produce chic and sustainably made occasionwear for mums and their babies. The silk dresses are flattering, practical for breastfeeding, and will ensure you’re the most stylish pair around. More designs out in 2020. Original design available from 28 October, from £69.97, maeveandme.com
THE NAPPY GURUS ARE CELEBRATING THEIR 10TH BIRTHDAY WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE NAPPY GURU NETWORK, AN ARMY OF MUMS ON A MISSION TO EDUCATE FAMILIES ON THE BENEFITS OF REUSABLE CLOTH NAPPIES. JOIN THE CHARGE ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND ATTEND EVENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY. THENAPPYGURUS.COM
baby-magazine.co.uk | 15
NEWS
The striking patterns of these playmats will look fab in any room
A WOOLY WARM WINTER Keep toes toasty this winter in super-soft, knee-high socks made from merino wool. Smalls, the sustainable wool experts, has teamed up with cool French hosier Collegien, to add a sock line to its collection. Available in warming colours, including misty rose and grey marl, sizes go from baby to adult, so everyone in your family will stay cosy. From £16.50, smallsmerino.co.uk
Laundry loving
Anamoly’s new laundry bag is the smartest and most fun way to keep those rogue socks all together and ready for the wash. Easily propped in a corner or hung on the door, the bag comes in eight playful, nature-inspired designs, including penguins, hippos and chameleons. Special personalisation available. £28, ana-moly.co.uk
PLAY MADE SIMPLE For a stylish alternative to a cumbersome, hard-to-clean playmat, check out Play with Pieces UK. Its functional one-piece mats can be rolled up like a rug and are softly cushioned and reversible – giving you two looks in one. Easily moved from room to room, or even outside, the non-toxic, antimicrobial mats are waterproof and wipe clean. £110, playwithpieces.co.uk
POSTNATAL STYLE EXPERTS SARKA LONDON’S NEW CAMPAIGN, CAFÉS WITHOUT COMPROMISE!, INVITES CUSTOMERS TO NOMINATE THEIR FAVOURITE BABY AND BREASTFEEDING-FRIENDLY VENUES. NOMINEES WILL HOLD A STICKER IN THEIR WINDOW TO LET PARENTS KNOW THEY ARE WELCOME. SARKALONDON.COM
Water baby
Toy brand Tiny Love is coming to a tub near you with bath toys created for a splashing good time. The animal Bath Squirters and stackable Spiral Splash Cups are on hand to help develop baby’s coordination and motor skills and nurture imaginations, while the Tidy-Up Dolphin Organiser makes tidying up part of the fun. From £8.99, tinylove.com
SPANISH FASHION
Designed in Amsterdam and made in Spain, Alex & Jolie is the brain-child of two mothers and fashion gurus, Paola and Sabine. With the help of their four-year-old daughters, the pair have designed a collection of clothes for little wearers to look stylish and feel comfortable in. Exquisite details include angel wings, embroidery and beautiful yarns and fabrics. Essential luxury wear for baby this winter. From £6, alexandjolie.com
NEWS
Stylish Holly and Sophie offer fashion advice and beauty tips to mums
SPORT SUPPORT
Continuing to prove its enduring commitment to supporting women, Reebok has released a fabulous maternity collection for new mums and mums-to-be. Featuring two essential sportswear silhouettes, maternity leggings and tank tops, in top-quality, high-stretch fabrics, the flattering activewear is comfortable and offers perfect support throughout every stage of pregnancy. Available in rose, black and navy. From £32.95, reebok.co.uk
BEST OF THE BLOGS
The internet is awash with information but these brilliant bloggers cut to the chase with honest and practical advice
LIFE OF MUMMIES
Softly does it
Baby essentials are a must – and those made by Rose In April are a must-have. Available in icy blue, earthy ochre or rose pink, and illustrated with delicate fawns, the 100 per cent muslin Bianca Swaddle is soft and multifunctional, acting as a bib, changing mat or even a scarf, and the star-printed cotton Vic Pouch is a handy accessory to carry toys and keep the baby bag organised. From £14, thehambledon.com
SPLASH AROUND
Don’t let unreliable weather stop any adventures this winter. Grass & Air, the super-cool, kids’ wetweather brand, has a new collection of adorable fleece-lined, warm and uber-comfy wellies called The Babies, designed to keep even the smallest of feet dry. And don’t be fooled by the three pastel shades; these mischieffilled boots change colour when wet! Little ones will hardly be able to wait to get out and splash in the puddles all day long. £20, grassandair.com
Best friends and first-time mums to Zack and Deliah, Holly and Sophie gave birth three weeks apart and have been through everything together. They created their blog as a platform for new mums to come together to talk about the good, the bad and the ugly of parenting. Washed down with super-stylish mum inspiration and a highly contagious sense of humour, they share similarities, differences, and honesty about their struggles and successes. lifeofmummies.com
FIZZY PEACHES
Lyndsay lives with her wife V and daughters Violet and Pearl by the seaside in Brighton. Fizzy Peaches started as a hobby, documenting life with her wife and their travel adventures. With the births of their girls, it has evolved to include all things pregnancy and parenting and is now a full-time career for Lyndsay. She writes interior, travel and food pieces, along with touching truths on IVF. Her recent post on ‘the types of mums at baby groups’ is sure to leave you giggling. fizzypeaches.com
SIMPLY TWINS
This doubly cute baby blog is a how-to guide for new parents looking after young twins, run by Amy, wife to James and mum to Skye and Summer. The blog offers useful advice about getting twins to sleep and mindfulness for parents. Practical, straightforward and lighthearted, her blog is a goto for all new parents – whether you have twins or not! With just over 16,000 followers, her Instagram is worth a follow, too: the matching fashion moments are too adorable! simplytwins.com
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NEWS
ANIMAL MAGIC
Petit Bateau is channelling its inner artiste by collaborating with renowned illustrator Jean Jullien, famed for creating unique characters with a naughty side. The fun capsule collection feature animals getting up to no good. All made from 100 per cent cotton, the collection includes jumpers, sleepsuits and dresses in animal-inspired patterns. From £29, petit-bateau.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPHY: QUENTIN BERTOU
A WALK IN THE WILD
Make baby’s first steps a wild adventure with British brand Poco Nido’s new range of printed baby shoes. Inspired by the natural world, the pull-on, stay-on shoes feature colourful patterns, designed to stimulate little eyes, centred around the European kingfisher, Eurasian lynx, Norwegian moose and the tulips of Amsterdam. What’s more, the cotton shoes are barefoot-friendly and grippy. £19, poconido.com
A NEW SURVEY BY THE MUMMY MOT, A UNIQUE SERVICE WHICH PROVIDES A SPECIALIST POSTNATAL EXAMINATION FOR WOMEN FOLLOWING BIRTH, REVEALS THAT 75% OF WORKING MOTHERS WANT TO SEE EMPLOYERS OFFER FLEXIBLE HOURS AND AN OPTION TO WORK FROM HOME. THEMUMMYMOT.COM
GET CRAFTY
Ever thought about making your own baby clothes? Then why not try a knitting kit from sustainable, stylish brand We Are Knitters? No matter your skill level, there is a kit for you, with designs ranging from easy to intermediate. You can create jumpers, rompers, toys and accessories in a lovely range of colours, styles and sizes. So get those needles clicking! From £35, weareknitters.co.uk
Beautiful bubba
After 20 years, Australian nursery brand Bubba Blue is finally launching in the UK. Innovative products include the softest blankets, hooded towels and swaddles, bed linen and toys, alongside Aussie baby skincare products and nursery décor. Designed with baby in mind, the stylish pieces are made from bamboo and are of the highest quality. babycobrands.co.uk
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Noé & Zoë’s beautiful winter collection has baby wrapped up in time for Christmas. Available in black and cream, £100, libertylondon.com
Baby news roundup KATE FREUD Editor-at-large
N
oé & Zoë, the cult kidswear brand famed for its bold designs, has created a cosy new winter collection in gender-neutral styles that all babies and children will love. With turbans and leggings, stars and spots, there’s something for everybody, including teddy bear all in ones with ears to keep baby extra snug through the chilly months.
LITTLE EXPLORERS
Take your little one on a woodland adventure with the Great Little Trading Company’s adorable autumn/winter range. Featuring Mr Bear and Mr Fox, the unisex felt garlands and wall hangings are all handmade, as well as the Mr Bear and Mr Fox rugs, which double as the perfect playmat. And don’t forget the ever-useful storage tubs, ideal for hiding any unsightly toys.
If you go down to the woods today you’re in for a big surprise with GLTC’s nature-inspired range. Felt garland, £28, gltc.co.uk
TEETHING TIME
Since its launch in 2015, baby brand Etta Loves has gone from strength to strength, with its signature bamboo muslins, playmats, washcloths and blankets in bold designs created to support baby’s sensory and cognitive development. And with my youngest daughter Willow in the midst of teething territory, we can’t get enough of the new teethers, in Purple Leopard and Terrazzo designs, to distract baby from any discomfort.
Your little one will stand out from the crowd in one of Sometime Soon’s statement onesies. Cotton onesie, £50, sometimesoon.com
ONESIES TO WOW IN
Danish fashion brand Sometime Soon has taken its brilliant ‘I Will Change The World’ slogan and adorned the coolest hooded onesies for baby. Available in eye-popping shades like this glorious turmeric yellow, it’s a surefire way of making a style statement at soft play.
Etta Loves’ dazzling new teethers will distract baby from any discomfort. £18.50, ettaloves.com
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6 DECEMBER
Feeling festive?
Kick off the Christmas season in style as Manchester’s Winter Funland opens its doors today. Tickets to this spectacular wonderland include access to an ice-skating rink, a festive circus, an indoor funfair, Santa’s grotto and a Christmas pantomime. Plus, under-threes go free! From £23.50, winterfunland.com
Christmas Jumper Day
DECEMBER 1
JOLLY GOOD SHOW Head to Brighton Racecourse from 10am for The East Sussex Baby and Toddler Show, where over 80 baby brands will be exhibiting. There’ll also be demo sessions, covering everything from first aid and hypnobirthing, plus a soft play area and refreshments. £4, eventbrite.co.uk
dates for your
2 HIT THE TRAIL
To celebrate 30 years since Nick Butterworth’s Percy the Park Keeper: One Snowy Night was published, Dunham Massey is hosting a festive trail. Explore the deer park in Manchester in search of Percy’s animal pals – there’ll even be treats at the end. £2.50, nationaltrust.org.uk
Leather shoes £22, bobux.co.uk
4
LAUGH OUT LOUD Enjoy top-notch comedy without having to book any childcare with the Bring
DIARY
Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy this month Your Own Baby Christmas Special at Symphony Hall in Birmingham. Kicking off from 12pm, comics will be playing their usual adult material, so only tots aged 15 months and under will be admitted entry. £13, thsh.co.uk
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HE’S BEHIND YOU!
1 DECEMBER
Winter wonderland
Where better to start your festivite celebrations than Godstone Farm? Running until 24 December, visitors to the Surrey attraction will have the chance to create Christmas crafts and decorate cookies in Wiglet’s Workshop, plus meet the main man himself in the farm’s magic grotto. godstonefarm.co.uk
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One Snowy Night £6.99, HarperCollins
Book tickets early for this year’s West End panto, Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Starring Paul O’Grady and The One Show’s Matt Baker, this family-friendly show at the London Palladium is not to be missed. From £34.50, lwtheatres.co.uk
12 SWEET FEET
If your baby is about ready to start walking, have her
feet professionally measured at the Toddler Shoe Fitting Pop-Up Shop at Natural for Baby in Balham, London, today. Hosted by shoe-fitting experts CeCe & Me, there’ll be several brands available to purchase, including Superga and Bobux. ceceandme.co.uk
13 JUMPERS FOR JOY
Christmas Jumper Day is back! And thousands of people across the UK, including nurseries and schools, will be donning their boldest festive sweaters in aid of the annual fundraiser for Save the Children. Sign up online to get your
free fundraising pack. savethechildren.org.uk
20 KIDTOPIA
Under-sixes will be wowed by Little Liverpool, a hands-on fantasy world within the Museum of Liverpool. Prewalkers will particularly love the Liver bird’s nest, a soft play space filled with toys. liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
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HAPPY NEW YEAR! Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party will be kicking off today on Princes Street from 7.30pm, with incredible live music and entertainment. edinburghs hogmanay.com
Cotton-blend jumper from £14, next.co.uk
WIN!
COMPETITION
A TRAVEL BUNDLE FROM MICRALITE Good to go! Mums and dads alike ill find it easy to strap on this bag
DayPak worth £65
FastFold worth £375
T&C’S: COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11.59PM ON 5 NOVEMBER 2019
M
icralite creates products to allow parents to embrace their adventures. And to celebrate our travel issue, we’ve teamed up to offer one lucky reader the ultimate Micralite travel bundle worth £705; receiving a FastFold stroller and footmuff, a Sleep & Go travel cot and a DayPak changing bag to ensure you’re ready for whatever family life throws at you. The FastFold is coined the SUV of strollers, allowing parents total freedom to take it anywhere, thanks to the high-spec wheels and premium weatherproof fabrics. Whether you’re heading long haul and need a pushchair that can handle sand, or eloping to the slopes for a family ski break, the FastFold is a fantastic travel companion. Plus, with colder weather afoot, little ones will love getting cosy in the footmuff. It’s lightweight and breathable with insulated lining, which is responsibly-sourced and offers a soft, cosy and comfy cocoon. The high performance, water-resistant fabric also means that, whatever the season, the 20k weatherproof covering allows you to really
Sleep & Go worth £175
enjoy the outdoors without compromise. Micralite’s Sleep & Go goes beyond just being a travel cot – it’s the perfect from birth sleep solution which also doubles up as a wonderful playpen. The newborn insert with mesh ventilation is great for air flow, while the plush mattress offers optimum comfort so that baby sleeps soundly either in the home or when staying over somewhere new. Parents will love the DayPak changing bags. Inspired by contemporary streetwear, this bag is full of thoughtful design features and available in three colours, plus the 25L capacity means you’re free to go explore.
WORTH OVER £700 Footmuff worth £90
micralite.com
To enter, visit baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions baby-magazine.co.uk | 21
S E L B B U B BIG ! S E L B U O R NO T packed with ou r ha ir an d bo dy wash is d, th an ks to love ly an ts ien ed gr in ed riv de y natu rall eo us to o. esse ntial oi ls, sm ells go rg s ev en It’ s so mi ld an d ge nt le , it’ an d SAFE FOR su itable fo r se ns iti ve SKIN TO ecze ma. PEOP LE W HO MAY BE PRON E ch ilds farm .com
LOVE S
Soft and snug, the liner is naturally thermostatic to help regulate baby’s temperature
SOFT SPOT We go weak at the knees for a cool collab, and as the days grow colder, the timing couldn’t be better for this ultra-snug sheepskin creation to make its way into the world. Designed in British brand Binibamba’s signature milk-white hue, the silk-in soft liner has been tailored to fit furniture designer Charlie Crane’s much-loved Levo rocker, keeping baby at the optimum temperature – whatever the season. Now, an adult-sized rocker would’t go a miss… From £95, binibamba.com
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SHOPPING
Wool coat £160, pepaandcompany.com
BeSafe izi Go X1 i-Size car seat £219.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk
Cotton romper £20, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
WINTER WARMERS
Wheat trousers £40, alexandalexa.com
From deep claret reds to earthy forest tones, it’s all about keeping baby cosy as you hunker down for the winter season
Leather slippers £38, easypeasy.fr
IN CLA
CUTE
RET Fabelab cuddle toy £24.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk
Wool-mix cardigan £58, emileetida.com
Velvet chair £1,027, darlingsofchelsea.co.uk
Fleece jumpsuit €59, bobochoses.com
Cashmere bonnet £81, caramel-shop.co.uk
Ergobaby Omni 360 carrier £154.90, naturalbabyshower.co.uk
Velour party dress £32, rachelriley.co.uk
Numero 74 sleeping bag £53, en.smallable.com
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SHOPPING
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Little Creative Factory cotton dress £94, en.smallable.com
Cybex wooden highchair £150, uberkids.com
Cotton-bamboo blend sleepsuit £32.50, babymori.com
Done by Deer cotton baby nest £79.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk
Warm colours and soft textures are perfect for hibernating in during the colder months
Plush toy £14, jellycat.com
Wool knitted cardigan from £141, ilgufo.com
From a selection at adenandanais.co.uk
Cotton bloomers £35, louislouise.com
Cotton bib £16, merrybonbon.com
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Slippers £17, poconido.com
Rylee + Cru cotton T-shirt £41, en.smallable.com
Joolz Day3 pushchair £899, my-joolz.co.uk
Denim cotton dungarees £42, dottydungarees.com
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SHOPPING
IN
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DS Cotton trousers £32, verymerryberry.co.uk
Leather shoes £38, scarletribbonmerino.com
Cotton-mix playsuit £59, anywarekids.com
Cotton sloth toy £12.99, scandiborn.co.uk
Ickle Bubba Stomp V3 (with Isofix Base) £499, icklebubba.com
Merino wool cardigan £50, miniature.com
Wool knit blanket £91, stellamccartney.com
Brightsiders cotton blouse £55, yellowpelota.com
Baby can blend in with nature this winter, wearing deep browns and greens
Cord jacket £32, boden.co.uk
Rocking horse £69, mamasandpapas.com
From a selection by Rylee + Cru alexandalexa.com
Sleigh wooden cot bed £999, boori.com
Cord trousers £40, arseneetlespipelettes.com
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SHOPPING
CUT TH
Cap baby’s outfit off with a blaze of colour for a festive look
E MUS
TARD Cotton mix coat £58.98, cyrillus.fr
Liewood music mobile £35, alexandalexa.com
From a selection at zara.com
SnuzKot cot bed £349.95, scandiborn.co.uk
Wool-cashmere blend sweater £150, mariechantal.co.uk
Cotton tunic £14, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
Igor tennis shoes £24, kidly.co.uk
Merino wool jumper £79, caramel-shop.co.uk
Camomile London Moses basket £156, en.smallable.com
Pom pom garland £14.95, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk
Cotton T-shirt £12, cosstores.com
Dinner set £32.99, babybjorn.co.uk
Cotton knit shorts £12.99, zara.com
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Start Your Adventure
Part of the
family
micralite.com
INTERVIEW
The jungle animal print on this colourful romper is a big hit with little Max Cotton romper from £6, next.co.uk Mum Giovanna gets in on the cuddles
MY ESSENTIALS Congratulations on your new books, There’s An Elf in Your Book and The Christmasaurus and The Winter Witch! What was the writing process like this time around? Thank you! It’s becoming easier, but it’s still a challenge. I’ve always found that writing books is similar to writing songs, and that’s what I’ve done for the past 17 years, so it never feels that alien to me. Plus, I clearly have an obsession with Christmas, so writing these books has been fun; I’ve been in festive mode for a while now! You’ve now written 19 children’s books – have you always wanted to write for kids? I’d always wanted to write a novel, and picture books just felt like a natural evolution from writing songs, because, often, they’re written in nonsense rhyme, which is similar to creating lyrics. Middlegrade books are where I’m most comfortable at the moment, as I love family movies, Pixar, Disney and sci-fi, and those are the kind of stories I want to tell.
TOM FLETCHER
The musician and author talks children’s books, baby brands and life with three young boys Where do you get your inspiration from? Mainly my parents – my dad would always make storytime so magical for me when I was growing up. I remember him reading The Snowman to me, and one night, instead of reading it to me as normal, he made the book
come to life, and I was talking to the book and he was shaking it as if it was answering my questions. Both my parents are so creative and great storytellers. What do your children think about your books? I tend to try my ideas out on them first, and I’ll say, “What should I write about next?”, and
sometimes they just won’t listen and other times they’ll respond really well. They’re a source of inspiration and criticism, which I think you need, as usually when you show adults something, there’s every chance they’ll lie so they don’t hurt your feelings. Kids just say it how it is! Any plans to write more books? Always! Books are a huge focus for me, but I’m also working on a stage musical, a Christmasaurus movie, and some other music projects, so there’s a lot keeping me busy. There’s definitely more books in the pipeline, and I’ve got a list of ideas that I’m working my way through. I’m actually waiting to get the edit back on a book at the moment. Which other books do your children enjoy reading? Buzz is really enjoying Diary of a Wimpy Kid, as he’s at the age now when he can read by himself. He’s also a big fan of Captain Underpants. And Buddy is loving Zog by Axel Scheffler.
Adventurer S2 child carrier £119.99, littlelife.com
Back with his McFly bandmates
baby-magazine.co.uk | 33
Thsi is one of Tom’s favourite photos, the last taken of them as a family of four SnüzKot £349, snuz.co.uk
Tom loves just hanging out with his boys
Max is one and now we now. How has have this sweet the last year recording of been for you? our children. Cotton T-shirt He’s the easiest £7.99, zara.com baby, but having What pushchair three is definitely a do you use? different dynamic, more We’ve always had Bugaboo so than having two. So, I’d say pushchairs, as we’ve found them it’s probably been our most the easiest to use and the most challenging year since having kids. comfortable to steer. For Buzz Of course, both Giovanna [Tom’s and Buddy, we had the Donkey wife] and I are still trying to juggle 2 Duo, and now we’ve got the our careers around being the best Bugaboo Ant with a detachable parents we can be. Thankfully, we seat that Buddy can sit on when have an amazing baby in Max. he gets tired. My parents look after the boys sometimes and How did Buzz and Buddy react to getting another brother? They love him, probably too much! They’re all over him all the time. Buddy’s very physical and loves picking him up, and Buzz is at that age when he’s wanting to be more helpful. They all got chickenpox over the summer and we were all stuck indoors for a few weeks, so we made a music video, which I then uploaded onto YouTube. It was good fun,
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they have an iCandy, which they really like.
a NASA T-shirt from John Lewis recently after he requested one!
Any favourite interiors brands for Max’s nursery? Max has a SnüzKot. It’s heartbreaking when you have to lower the cots down, as you realise time is going so quickly, especially now we have three children; I don’t think we’ll be having any more.
Finally, what’s the best thing about being a dad? Just getting to hang out with your kids is really cool. It’s horrendous with the first when you realise you’re probably never going to sleep again, but when you start embracing that, some of the best moments can be at 2am and it’s just you and your baby. At the moment, I’m sleeping on Max’s floor most nights, and it’s nice getting to have a little snuggle when everyone else is asleep.
What about for the children’s wardrobes? Next and Zara both have great kids’ clothes and we buy a lot from there. We also bought Buzz Ready to roll: the Fletcher boys, Buzz, five, Buddy, three, and Max, one
There’s an Elf in Your Book is on sale 17 October, and The Christmasaurus and The Winter Witch is on sale 3 October, both published by Puffin Books
INTERVIEW: NATALIE KEELER. PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES; INSTAGRAM/TOMFLETCHER
Tom holds his third son, Max, for the very first time
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Cosy Reads
Emma O’Donovan SNUGGLES UP WITH THE BEST BOOKS FOR BABY
HOPE
Corrinne Averiss & Sébastien Pelon A gently uplifting story about the friendship between a boy and his dog. Shining the light of hope even when times are uncertain. A stylish addition to your home library. £11.99, Words & Pictures
BOOKS
Your little ones will love reading this sweet story about friendship
ARE YOU THERE LITTLE OWL? By Essi Kimpimaki
Filled with interactive elements, including finger trails and cutouts, this book will introduce kids to an array of friendly forest folk. £5.99, Usborne
of squirrels squabbling over a hoard of nuts. Little ones will love joining in with this fun, read-aloud tale. £6.99, Nosy Crow
yearns to be shared with your loved ones. £11.99, Caterpillar Books
WHAT WILL YOU DREAM OF TONIGHT?
SNOW STILL
By Chris Riddell
THE STAR IN THE FOREST
By Frances Stickley & Anuska Allepuz
Magic unfolds as two sisters find a fallen star. This adventure tale is sure to inspire little ones to search for their own star. £11.95, Thames & Hudson
A lulling, reassuring rhyming read magically unfolds as we explore dreams yet to be dreamt. Unlock a whole world of wonder just in time for bed. £11.99, Nosy Crow
By Helen Kellock
ILLUSTRATION: SÉBASTIEN PELON
heart-warming story about identity and friendship will demand repeat reads. Sure to become a future classic. £6.99, Nosy Crow
THE BEST KIND OF BEAR
NUTS!
What’s better than a bear hug at bedtime? This sweet,
This delightfully nutty autumnal lesson in sharing sees a pair
By Greg Gormley & David Barrow
By Lou Peacock & Yasmeen Ismail
By Holly Surplice Glittering flourishes of foil on each page bring these stunning illustrations to life as we follow a beguiling fawn on a winter wonderland adventure. £11.99, Nosy Crow
KINDNESS GROWS By Britta Teckentrup
This is a thought-provoking story about kindness and feelings that has clever peep-through cut-outs on each page. Emotive and filled with joy, this book
ONCE UPON A WILD WOOD An amusing twist on traditional fairytales with exquisite illustrations and a cast of familiar story-time characters. A delight for both parent and child alike. £6.99, Macmillan
JUST LIKE YOU! By Jane Chapman
Adorable Piccolo wants to be just like her father, and as they set of on a fantastic adventure, she’s about to discover she’s already more like him than she thought. £6.99, Little Tiger Press
baby-magazine.co.uk | 37
THIS PAGE: Aden wears cashmere cardigan, £140, Caramel. Cashmere trousers, £108, Caramel. Leather shoes, £40, Amy & Ivor at Hedley Field. RIGHT PAGE: Carmelo wears zip-up top, £320, Gucci at Childrensalon. Velvet shorts, £100, Gucci at Childrensalon. Leather boots, £47, Amy & Ivor at Hedley Field.
BABIES
unw rapped
Life really is like a box of chocolates when it comes to baby’s wardrobe; our photoshoot celebrates the sweetest party pieces boasting bold hues and lashings of tactile textures PHOTOGR APHY: LOL JOH NSON ST YLING: Y VADN EY DAVIS
THIS PAGE: Pearl wears silk dress, £200, Marie-Chantal. Tights (pack of three), £8, Marks & Spencer. Shoes, £13, Next. RIGHT PAGE: Aden wears cotton cardigan, £65, Rachel Riley. Cotton trousers, £35, Rachel Riley. Leather shoes, £40, Amy & Ivor at Hedley Field.
THIS PAGE: Carmelo wears cotton all in one, £12.50, Marks & Spencer. RIGHT PAGE: Aden wears cotton-blend cardigan, £22, Boden. Top, £5.99, Zara. Cotton bloomers, £36, The Animals Observatory at AlexandAlexa. Cotton-wool bonnet, £12, Foque at Childrensalon.
SPECIAL THANKS TO MODELS: ADEN, CARMELO, IMOGEN AND PEARL. MODEL AGENCIES: BONNIE & BETTY, BRUCE AND BROWN, LACARA AND RAY & ROBIN. ART DIRECTOR: CHLOË COLLYER. STYLIST’S AGENCY: ROXY & JACK REPRESENTS
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BABY TALK
Bugaboo have finally jumped on the mini pushchair bandwagon with the release of the Bugaboo Ant, and I am certainly going to be taking one on holiday with me. As always, the slick customiser means you can choose your own fabrics etc, but I will probably just go for black on black. £429, bugaboo.com
With travel on the mind, I don’t leave home without Weleda Stress Relief Oromucosal Spray, which is used within the homeopathic tradition for the symptomatic release of mild stress, irritability and tension. I spray this liberally over myself and my husband; it’s meant to be in the mouth, but I don’t think it matters! £10.95, weleda.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
WHERE TO GO The Royal Albert Hall has some amazing festive events for older children, but I am going to be taking my whole family to listen to Christmas carols. You get a better view in the Stalls, but I often buy tickets in the Gods; although this means you’re standing, it’s extra special for the children because it almost feels like a bit of a secret, and a gentle sway is sure to send any babies off to sleep. Failing that, why not check out a carol concert near you to get in the festive spirit. royalalberthall.com
T
his month is all about travel, and although most people dread travelling with children, I love everything about the adventure. Don’t get me wrong: a flight on your own where you can actually read a magazine is pretty mega, but I do love the excitement of travel with a little one – this month I’m sharing some of my travel essentials! I have been absolutely desperate to get my hands on the JetKids BedBox by Stokke. Not only is it a ride-on suitcase for your child when they get bigger, but it also transforms into an in-flight bed or a bit of a leg rest for you. This has to be seen to be believed. £149, stokke.com
Leo’s
LITTLE LUXURIES OUR COLUMNIST Leonora Bamford SHARES HER FAVOURITE THINGS THIS MONTH
Whether you’re travelling or not, check out Artipoppe, who do the most coveted baby carrier of the year. The Zeitgeist baby velvet champagne colour is on pre-order and is making me want to have another baby! £431, artipoppe.com
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FASHION
AH E AD OF TH E CU RVE ST YLIST AND PRESENTER Antonia O’Brien SHARES HER PRE AND POSTNATAL WARDROBE LUST-HAVES
Hatch x J Crew trench-cape £335, jcrew.com
Copenhagen Fashion Week street style A/W 2019
When I was pregnant, Arket was my go-to for well-cut trousers that just so happened to have elasticated waistlines; cool and flattering before baby and after
Acne Studios leather crossbody bag £850, harveynichols.com
Rib trousers £69, arket.com
New York maternity brand Hatch has teamed up with J Crew and the collection is everything I hoped for and more: knitted dresses, tailoring and this stylish trench cape – run!
Flatform leather trainers £110, jigsaw-online.com
Joseph’s basics are the very best and so soft against the sensitive skin on the bump; perfect for layering under knitwear Rib jersey £125, joseph-fashion.com
To extend the life of its bestselling styles, Isabella Oliver is now selling ‘pre-loved’ maternity clothing on its website – check it out! (Here I am wearing the Isabella Oliver turtleneck that features on this page)
Whether you’re staying local for a baby-free staycation or packing your Globe-Trotter luggage for a last hurrah city break, here are a few short-haul necessities to keep you in both comfort and style.
Suitcase £1,205, globe-trotter.com
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Merino wool turtleneck £119, uk.isabellaoliver.com
Six’s nursing bras are exactly what I’ve been looking for: elegant, supportive and easyaccess for a hungry baby
Six lace-trimmed nursing bra and briefs £65 and £35, net-a-porter.com
Cotton pyjama set £145, yolke.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM ANGELCANDICES
YOUR CITY BREAK SUITCASE
Candice Swanepoel @angelcandices
FASHION
Style your bump… Winter sun… Why shouldn’t you feel sexy and stylish on your babymoon? Love your body and winter sun wardrobe in vibrant colours, strong rints and ure en an in s a es
Buy less and buy better really applies to Borgo De Nor. The stunning and ultra-feminine designs can be worn loose or cinched; this is a love forever piece!
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Silk-satin midi dress, £1,240, borgodenor.com; Isabel Marant crystal and stone earrings, £325, harrods.com; maternity swimsuit, £59, lilyandribbon.com; Greenpacha toquilla-straw bucket hat, £89, matchesfashion.com; Desmos leather sandals, €155, ancient-greek-sandals.com; Ramie dress, £630, threegraceslondon.com; Le Specs x Adam Selman cat-eye sunglasses, £75, matchesfashion.com; Pippa Holt embroidered cotton kaftan, £695, matchesfashion.com.
Your skin is hyper-sensitive throughout your pregnancy so always wear a sun hat; preferably a straw bucket one
A kaftan is a holiday must and ex-Vogue stylist Pippa Holt’s styles are timeless designs that will skim the body in every trimester
Statement earrings will add a little drama to your pregnancy style. I adore these from Isabel Marant for their colour and sparkle
# TR EN DING
@LOEFFLERRANDALL
@ISABELMARANT
@TOPSHOP
@UTERQUEOFFICIAL
Animal and reptile prints aren’t a new style story, but they are the current darling. A personal favourite of mine, snake-print footwear and accessories will instantly excite a pared-down look
baby-magazine.co.uk | 47
INTERVIEW Diane says her shyness is something she uses to maintain privacy for her family
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INTERVIEW
• TA L K I N G W I T H D I A N E K R U G E R •
A MOTHER’S ROLE The German model and actress is relishing her latest incarnation – as a mother to her one-year-old daughter
hrough Unknown, Inglourious Basterds, In The Fade and The Operative, Diane Kruger’s versatility in dramatic roles speaks for itself. The actress and model is now utilising that skill in a different way: as a new parent, following the birth of her daughter. Kruger and partner Norman Reedus – of The Walking Dead fame – welcomed their first child into the world in November 2018, and despite the demand of work projects, are styling a balanced upbringing for her. “At the heart of what we’ve wanted to create is a layer of privacy, and I think most people understand and respect that,” 43-year-old Kruger says. “We appreciate that we live in the spotlight, and that comes with the territory; but to move into the background for family is something every parent wants; these are still very early and very special moments for us as three people finding their way.” It follows, then, that the couple are yet to announce the name of their daughter, despite frenzied internet speculation. At one point, it appeared as though Kruger had leaked it as ‘Etiquette’, but she quickly dismissed that rumour (lovely and original as that name would be). “I’m learning very quickly through motherhood that words are less important than actions,” she laughs. “It has become a real trip into a different way of interacting when you are with someone who communicates entirely through actions. When my daughter was teething – she had eight teeth when she was nine months old – that was a time where I was desperate to offer love and reassurance, and it is all about finding original ways in which you can do that. It’s full-on: you have to want to be present for everything; the adjustment into a new life is considerable, but it’s never been sweeter.” Kruger was just 15 when the opportunity came to leave behind her sleepy German village and head to Paris to begin her modelling career. Chanel and Prada followed, but she really rose to global attention when she switched into film – her talents culminating in a Best Actress gong at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival for In The Fade. And after a long-term relationship with Joshua Jackson ended amicably, she met Reedus, also an American actor. Despite all her success, Kruger has a reserved, even shy demeanour. “My shyness is a way of maintaining privacy,” she says. “People sometimes think I am cold and standoffish, but it’s more to do with being taught as a child to be creative and ambitious, all the while keeping myself to myself. I don’t think there’s
WORDS: KAREN OVERTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: REX IMAGES/YLMJ/ADMEDIA VIA ZUMA WIRE/SHUTTERSTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/DIANEKRUGER
T
anything worse than garish children, and for me it was the simple things in my upbringing that I feel will shape the parent I am. “I worked every summer delivering newspapers door to door in Algermissen. Earning my own money had a profound effect on me and gave me the ambition to travel and experience life in different places, like Paris. As a child, I imagined myself falling in love with a Frenchman. I think when you grow up in a family where you don’t have much money and you face difficult circumstances [Kruger’s mother and father separated when she was 13], you become very protective and guarded. The world is not as comforting a place as you would like it to be. That kind of experience teaches you to be independent and self-reliant.” Kruger has embraced the idea of following life’s path, rather than being ruled by fear of what might happen next. “When I had to give up ballet, I knew my next step would be modelling; and when acting came along, that was a natural progression. I want to teach my daughter not to fear the next step, nor to be too complacent in one way of being.” The family of three are happily based in the West Village in New York City. “I admire the way Americans have a confident sense of themselves,” Kruger says. “They have an attitude that makes them want to move forward in their lives and become the best version of themselves. I want that for my daughter.” But Paris will always feel like Kruger’s spiritual home. “It’s the place where I first began to make my own way in the world and to explore life,” she says. “I love the lifestyle, the sense of style and fashion, the way culture is valued so highly, and the fact that no one ever shows up on time! I am already adopting those habits as a mother! I still have many friends there and try to get back whenever I can. I also miss many things about Germany, as you would expect.” Kruger is excited at the prospect of showing her daughter the world. “I know travel will be a big part of our lives. It is so important to expose my daughter to new cultures, foods and customs and different ways of doing things. As a parent, it makes me excited to think she has so much to discover in the world.” In the meantime, there are the simple pleasures of life: lazy walks, playing indoors and long cuddles on the sofa. “Children are such an incredible gift. I feel so blessed. When anyone tells you they love you, it makes you feel beautiful, inside and out. But when those three words come from a child, that is the most special thing of all.”
The new pa rents are ex cited to expl world with ore the their young daughter
baby-magazine.co.uk | 49
TOT GEAR
NEW KID ON THE BLOCK
Say hello to JUNIORJONES, the new stroller brand set to revolutionise the industry. Launching a ‘must-have’ stroller range, including the J-CARBON, a stunning all-carbon fibre stroller, this brand is sure to turn heads. Besides the innovative sleek carbon fibre, this elegant stroller is engineered to precision for better ride and handling, and is effortless to push. Also sitting very pretty in the range, is the J-SPIRIT, J-CUB and J-TOURER, all offering parents affordable style and a touch of real luxury. juniorjones.com
tot gear
NEWS COOL AND CLEVER BABY KIT FOR NEW FAMILY LIFE
Best known for its car seat offering, Maxi-Cosi has moved indoors and launched its home equipment collection with the Kori rocker, Minla highchair and Iora bedside sleeper. As you’d expect, this new home range keeps babies safe and comfortable while making them look stylish. maxi-cosi.co.uk
KEEP ME CLOSE LIGHT UP
As the nights draw in, Joolz is here to help keep strolling safe. Available across the brand’s range of pushchairs, two new looks will illuminate with their reflective trims. Both Brilliant black and Superior grey are designed with embedded strips that will light your pushchair whatever the time, day or night. my-joolz.co.uk
The latest carrier innovation to come from BabyBjörn is the Baby Carrier Move, designed for parents with an active and social lifestyle who want their baby close right from day one. Designed with built-in back support and a waist belt that distributes weight away from the shoulders, it allows parents to carry comfortably for long periods while baby sits snug, too. £119.99, babybjorn.co.uk
THE ICANDY PEACH IS A STYLISH AND PRACTICAL CHOICE. THE LATEST INNOVATIONS SEE THE PUSHCHAIR ENTER ITS SIXTH GENERATION, UNVEILING PREMIUM FABRICS AND UNPARALLELED DETAILING. ICANDYWORLD.COM
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REVIEW
THE REVIEW NEW MUM Sarah Newey AND BABY Ella TAKE THE BABYST YLE OYSTER 3 OUT FOR A SPIN
W
ith the arrival of my first child, I wanted a pushchair that not only looked good, but would help us get by in day-to-day life. We got the Oyster 3 and haven’t looked back since!
Ella is so snug and comfortable in her carrycot
THE LOWDOWN After making improvements on the already hugely popular Oyster 2, Babystyle announced that the Oyster 3, which went on sale late 2018, is one of the “best pushchairs we have ever designed”.
GOOD LOOKING? Yes, this pushchair is a beautiful piece of kit. With its shiny chrome wheels, elegant chassis, leather handle and stylish carrycot and stroller accessories, the Oyster 3 is the va-va-voom of the baby buggy world. The ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahs’ are almost expected now when I take Ella out in her cool wheels. I opted for the Caviar finish: it’s a more classic look, but there are modern colours to suit individual tastes. More importantly, the Oyster 3 is sturdy. Carrying my precious cargo looks good and feels safe – a winning combination!
PRACTICALITY AND DRIVABILITY The Oyster 3 is a slick vessel. The chassis has two handy knobs where you can hold a couple of bags, as well as storage space underneath – it’s got enough room to carry a light shop back from the supermarket and doesn’t struggle with the extra weight. However, the chassis itself is quite a dense unit. While easy to fold down, lock, store and attach the different
Sarah rates the good looks and smooth ride of the slick Oyster 3 pushchair
accessories with the provided adaptors (carrycot, seat unit, car seat), I was surprised to discover the frame, with its larger wheels and steel mount, is heavier than it looks. When I was first getting used to the buggy, it took a couple of trips with the chassis/car seat to and from the car due to the weight, and stairs were tricky to master. In time, and with some practise, it has definitely become easier. When on the move, the Oyster 3 is light and flexible with excellent pivot and moves well on both pavement and heathland. It has a strong brake, too, with wheel locks – all important for essential city public transport.
COMFORT It’s a really smooth ride. The handle has two settings that work well for me at 5ft 3in and my partner, who is a foot taller. Despite living in a loud city, Ella loves the comfort of her buggy with its large, protective, UV 50+ hood and is shielded in there from all the shrill
The Oyster 3 has enough storage space to carry a light bag of shopping
noises. When out, she will be lulled into a sleep, and the carrycot also acts as a miniature cot with a rocker base, which is useful for overnight trips away. The carrycot is 77cm in length, which was lucky given Ella was 62cm at birth! She’s cosy in there but still has room to have a stretch.
VERDICT The Oyster 3 is certainly the Ferrari Coupe of the buggy world in terms of its distinguished good looks. Ella is the bee’s knees out in her wheels. I would highly recommend the Oyster 3 for its class, luxury and security. From £499, babystyle.co.uk
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A JetKids RideBox helps take the stress out of travelling
PROFILE
Janne and her team with Peter Opsvik, the brains behind the original Tripp Trapp
BEHIND THE BRAND
STOKKE NATALIE KEELER MEETS GLOBAL BR AND COMMUNICATION DIRECTOR , Janne Strømmen TO TALK ABOUT THE SUCCESS OF THIS POPUL AR NORWEGIAN COMPANY
With a Tripp Trapp highchair, your baby can sit close to the dining table
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PROFILE
ack in 1972, when Norwegian furniture designer Peter Opsvik realised that his son’s highchair wasn’t able to fit around the dinner table – thus leaving him out of family mealtimes – he set about creating a new product; one that was adjustable, sleek in design, and could change with the size of his son as he grew bigger. Sound familiar? We know it as Stokke’s Tripp Trapp, and over the last 47 years, it’s become one of the most iconic pieces of Scandinavian furniture ever created. “We’re so proud of our Scandinavian heritage, and people might think that’s just about nature and design, but it’s actually about something much more important,” says Stokke’s global brand communication director, Janne Strømmen, who has been with the business for 12-and-a-half years. “It’s about how we raise our children, particularly here in Norway, and how we give them the freedom to explore, be independent, challenge themselves and learn through play. This is a huge influence for us in terms of how we develop our products.” Having started its days as a small furniture workshop in the Sunnmøre Alps of Norway in 1932, Stokke has transformed into a premium brand with a loyal customer base in more than 80 countries. In 2006, it shifted its focus to solely develop high-quality children’s products and baby equipment, and the Tripp Trapp is the tip of the iceberg; the business has also been lauded for its strollers, carriers and cribs. Even footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, singer John Legend and his wife Chrissy Teigen, and Instagram influencer Chiara Ferragni are among its many fans. “Our main goal is to stimulate baby’s development, and this means nurturing not just her physical growth, but her emotional growth, too,” Janne explains. “Obviously, it’s really important that the item fits her properly and provides the right ergonomic support. On the emotional side, however, the product
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Newborn babies are fully supported in the Steps Bouncer
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The Beat is the latest stroller to be added to Stokke’s portfolio
“OUR PRODUCTS ARE DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE CLOSENESS BETWEEN THE PARENT AND CHILD” also needs to stimulate a connection between the baby and parent.” In 2012, Stokke worked with a psychologist specialising in neuroscience to look at how neurodevelopment is influenced in the early years of a child’s life, and the ways in which communication, skin-to-skin contact, and eye contact helps to develop brain functions, sense of security and ability to learn. “When we develop products now, we have to ensure they’re designed to encourage that closeness between the parent and child,” Janne says. “Our highchairs, for instance, fit right to the family’s main dining table, so baby can be a part of mealtimes and learn through socialising with their parents and siblings. Similarly, with our strollers, the child can face the parent, so they can have that eye contact.” These values are a fundamental part of Stokke’s philosophy, and the brand is yet to compromise to uphold them. Even its Munch dinnerware collection, with an anti-drip bowl, sippy cup and cutlery, is ergonomically designed to aid baby’s grip and encourage selffeeding, while the Xplory 6 pushchair – with its height-adjustable seat – enables you to be closer to your child as you’re on the move. There’s also a timelessness to Stokke’s
products; Janne tells me she knows of Tripp Trapp chairs from the 1970s that are still being used today. “I also saw a first-generation Xplory stroller on the street recently, and though it didn’t look quite as cool back in 2003 – the stroller has evolved a lot since – the quality was definitely still there, and that aspect is important to us, too.” Stokke’s use of sustainable materials is paramount to its mission of creating premium children’s products, and with surroundings like those in Ålesund, where Janne is based, it stands to reason that there’s such an appreciation for nature among the team. At the time of our conversation, Janne has plans to hike up the mountainous peaks of Norway’s Lofoten Islands in just a few weeks, and she tells me that many of the staff here enjoy sailing, snowboarding, climbing, and even skydiving in their time outside of work. “That’s just the culture of Norway – to enjoy nature for both recreation and for exercise.” Alongside sustainability, the longevity of the designs is crucial. “We produce so much waste on the planet now, so our aim is to develop products that can last for decades.” The brand’s transitional designs, which are made to ‘grow’ with the child, are adored by
A London branch was opened in April 2018
The Stokke
Touch
When not working, Janne climbs mountains
its customers, and as well as the Tripp Trapp – hailed as ‘A Chair for Life’ for a good reason – Stokke also has nursery products that fall under the same umbrella. The Stokke Sleepi, a four-in-one crib that comes with its own conversion kit, is suitable for children from newborn to age 10, while the Stokke Home Dresser can function as both a changing table and a storage space for when they’re older. Much of Janne’s role is about getting the business’ message across, and she travels around the globe a lot to ensure the brand’s values are being properly communicated to customers. The travelling is tiring, she admits, but she loves people. “We have so many great members of staff from all over the world, so that adds value to the business. There’s about 17 nationalities here in the Ålesund office.”
e ts in the US, Stokk Working with paren ir ha hc hig ikk Cl with the designers came up
Stokke also has offices in Connecticut, Sindelfingen, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai, as well as a store in London’s Westfield White City. “We may be a Norwegian company, but we’re talking to an international audience, so the insight we get from members of our team is important.” Launching this October, the brand has also released a new highchair – the Stokke Clikk – which was designed with parents in the US. “The Tripp Trapp is still a niche product over there, so we wanted to create something that’s more in line with what an American family might look for initially,” Janne says. “We did a lot of home visits and interviews, asking what they liked and what they needed, which then enabled us to create the ‘perfect’ highchair. It’s essentially designed to make mealtimes easier and can be used from six months to three years.” As for the future, all eyes are on the Stokke Beat, the new compact urban stroller set to drop on 31 October. After that? Janne tells me that, other than developing the brand’s sustainability strategy, she’s currently sworn to secrecy, which suggests to me that there’s plenty more to come from this seemingly unstoppable brand. For now, we’ll have to watch this space.
This fun and functional dinnerware is designed so little hands can easily hold each piece Munch Everyday, £39
stokke.com Stroller mittens, £55
Tripp Trapp, £178
JetKids by Stokke, £119
Xplory, from £899
ADVERTORIAL
A lifeline for the future ETHICAL AND SUCCESSFUL, Biovault EXPL AINS THE BENEFITS OF CORD BLOOD STOR AGE – A LIFE INSUR ANCE POLICY FOR YOUR CHILD THAT YOU’LL HOPEFULLY NEVER HAVE TO USE
e it extra nappies and a change of clothing for a day out, or emergency snacks for a long car journey, the majority of parents are equipped with a back-up plan before they’ve even stepped foot out of the door. But what do we do when our child’s health is in question? At the heart of cord blood stem cell storage is Biovault, a scientific company that’s been leading the way in human tissue processing for the past 17 years. Working in partnership with the NHS, Biovault offers families cord blood and tissue storage as an insurance policy you’ll hopefully never have to use, but is there to support patients suffering from life-threatening or limiting conditions.
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HOW DOES IT WORK? Before your baby is even born, she’s provided with the nourishment she needs via her very
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own lifeline: the umbilical cord that connects her to her mother. This cord – as well as her placenta – is filled with blood that’s rich in stem cells, which have the remarkable potential to develop into several different cell types within the body. What makes these cord blood stem cells so unique is that they can regenerate to replace any damaged blood cell in the human body – caused by blood cancers, like leukaemia, for instance – which allow them to treat diseases in the blood and immune system.
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE CORD BLOOD AFTER BIRTH? When your baby is born, this precious cord blood is typically treated as clinical waste and thrown away. But when it’s preserved, it can continue to be a lifeline for babies and families for years to come.
Cord blood stem cells have been used for over 30 years to treat a range of conditions that affect the blood and immune system, from blood cancers such as lymphoma, to solid tumours such as neuroblastoma.
HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO BONE MARROW COLLECTION? Bone marrow collection can be an invasive and painful procedure, which is what makes stored cord blood stem cells even more favourable to parents thinking about the future. What’s more, the risk of rejection is also eliminated, and your child’s cells will be immediately available, so you won’t have to wait a long time to find a suitable match. Keen to learn more about cord blood stem cell storage? Head to biovaultfamily.com for more information
PARTIES These party essentials will ensure the celebrations don’t stop
ON THE DAY
PARTIES
The must-have staples for party success
with Carole Middleton
A statement cake is a great conversation starter and doubles up as a wonderful table decoration until it’s cut. Pick n Mix cheescake, £48, pleesecakes.com
Card invitation with envelope £3.50, meanmail.co
THE ESSENTIALS
Parties are all about making memories. An instant camera means you can create a photo album during the party. Camera, £74.99, shop.fujifilm.co.uk
Throwing a party shouldn’t be hard work. This issue we go back to the basics and look at the essentials Confetti balloons (pack of 14) £9.99, partypieces.co.uk Eco wipes for babies and parent alike. Baby wipes, £2.50, kitandkin.com
A waterproof speaker means if any accidents happen, which is inevitable with lots of little ones, the music doesn’t have to stop! Bluetooth speaker, £99.99, freshnrebel.com
If you’re looking for game inspo, this book is full of party pleasers. The Everything Big Book of Party Games, £10.99, Adams Media
As much as you try to keep waste down, there will be some rubbish at a party do. For those bits you can’t recycle, use these compostable rubbish bags. Compostable caddy liners, £2.75, waitrose.com
Paper party bags (pack of eight) £4.99, partypieces.co.uk
Thank you card £4.95, marbyandelm.com
Candles (pack of 16) £4.99, partypieces.co.uk
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ometimes the prospect of organising a party – whatever the occasion may be – is so daunting that you soon find yourself out of time and missing out altogether. But trust me, with a bit of organisation, it really is easy to throw a celebration to remember. There are three main categories when it comes to party essentials: decoration, food and drinks, and entertainment – and this really is the case whatever the age. Once you’ve decided on an overarching theme, may it be a colour or more focused such as a children’s book theme, a good place to start is the decorations. Balloons will be high up on the list, but remember all the bits that come with them, too, such as helium, if you’re using it to blow them up, balloon weights and curling ribbons, if you’re tying them. You may also want table runners, table confetti, centrepieces and signage to complete the look. Next up, it’s time to think about food. You may choose to hire caterers or prepare the food yourself – don’t over do it: little ones are likely to be too busy having fun and you want them to save room for the cake. You will want to make sure you’ve got plenty of napkins, plus wet wipes close by for sticky hands. You’ll need party plates and cups, plus serving platters and a cake stand. I love a Kilner dispenser, which saves on filling up multiple jugs. But just because it’s a little one’s party, don’t forget to provide some fizz for the adults! Finally, the entertainment. Pass the parcel always goes down a treat, and remember to compile a party playlist to keep the tunes going.
Wooden cutlery (pack of 18) £1.99, partypieces.co.uk
Biodegradable paper plates (pack of eight) £3.49, baby-magazine.co.uk | 57 partypieces.co.uk
Join the gang holidays
www.coldatnight.co.uk @fforest West Wales #fforest
Image: James Bowden
fforest
Ultimate family
ESCAPES •2020 EDITION•
• THE VERY BEST HOLIDAY CRÈCHES NEAR AND FAR
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
• LUXURY ALL-INCLUSIVE DESTINATIONS ACROSS THE WORLD • HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS – TOP SLOPES FOR FAMILIES • COASTAL GETAWAYS THAT ARE CLOSE TO HOME • TAKE FLIGHT! YOUR HELPFUL GUIDE TO BABY’S FIRST HOLIDAY baby-magazine.co.uk | 59
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Half term breaks fr om £240 for t wo nights for a family of 4!
THE ESPLANADE HOTEL
Holidays in Cornwall for the whole family. RELAX WITH... • Fistral Beach on your doorstep • Free kids activities • Indoor pool, sauna and jacuzzi • Two outdoor play areas • Quiksilver Surf School • Seaview rooms
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
Fancy some all-inclusive luxury living in Antigua?
Welcome… Baby’s intro to the sea as they dip their tiny toes, a toddler’s triumphant first attempt to build a sandcastle, that initial heroic tumble on the nursery slopes... One thing’s for certain: you can’t beat a family holiday. And that’s why we’ve been busy travelling the globe (needs must, hey!) to put together this handy guide. From nifty packing tips to clever crèche solutions, we want to ensure that you and your little ones get the relaxing getaway or exciting adventure you deserve. Wherever you land on the map, wishing you the happiest of holidays!
Contents
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66 69
Baby on board Overwhelmed by the logistics of baby’s first trip? We reveal the simple steps to holiday success
The best of the south west Why you need to look no further than Devon and Cornwall for the ultimate family staycation
Rest assured Want a family holiday with balance? Jo Caird travels the globe to find the best holiday crèches for under-twos
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Living it up
76
Join the club
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Mountain flair
82
My travels
REBECCA MOORE, EDITOR
Richard Webber goes in search of the most lavish all-inclusive family resorts where luxury isn’t compromised Want the best of both worlds? We find the top kids’ clubs across the globe Ready to hit the slopes with kids in tow? Check out our selection of the best family-friendly ski resorts We catch up with Call the Midwife actress Helen George to talk family trips
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
Baby on
BOARD
DRE ADING CHAOS AT THE AIRPORT AND SCREECHING IN THE HOTEL? THERE’S AN E ASIER WAY WITH Jo Caird’s SIMPLE STEPS TO HOLIDAY SUCCESS
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ravelling with a baby is a daunting prospect for many parents. Even mums and dads who were seasoned globetrotters before starting a family can feel overwhelmed by the logistics of that first holiday with their little one. Break the organising down into bite-sized chunks, however, and it all becomes more manageable, allowing you to really get excited about the adventures that await you as a new family.
GETTING A PASSPORT Fill out a paper application for your child’s first passport and take advantage of the Post Office’s Check and Send service, which costs around £10 on top of the usual fee. The rules for passport photographs aren’t as strict for babies as they are for adults, but it can still be tricky to get right – a visit to a high-street photo specialist or chemist will save you a lot of stress. If you’ve filled everything in correctly and sent in the documents, the passport will be ready in about three weeks. There’s also a fasttrack service to turn around a new passport within a week, but it costs extra and you’ll need to attend an appointment.
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR HOTEL Most hotels should be able to supply a cot and high chair, but do check when booking, so you can bring your own if need be. Ask about in-room amenities: a kettle and fridge
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are absolute essentials; a bathtub is pretty handy too, but not a deal-breaker. We always travel with a tiny inflatable paddling pool that fits in the bottom of shower stalls. A balcony is a massive bonus, because it gives you somewhere to sit and relax after baby’s bedtime. It’s worth asking about babysitting services, too. Most family-friendly hotels should be able to arrange this for you. Enquire about a room at the end of a hallway and away from the lifts or stairs. Your baby will be less likely to be disturbed by the noise of other guests and, being further from occupied rooms, you’ll feel less guilty if your little one cries in the night. Depending on your destination, it’s worth asking about the cost of a suite compared to a standard double – in a lot of the big US hotel chains, there often isn’t much difference, and you’ll be grateful for the extra space to stow not just your sleeping child, but all their gear too. If that’s not an option, a large wardrobe can work nicely as a miniature bedroom for storing baby’s things out of the way and keeping the main room more organised.
TRAVEL VACCINATIONS The standard vaccinations your baby will receive on the NHS will protect them from most of the diseases you might come across when travelling, particularly in developed nations. Far-flung destinations often require additional vaccines, some of which can only be given above a certain age,
ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
HAPPY PACKING These travel essentials will make holidaying with baby feel like a breeze
Babiators sunglasses £18, naturalbabyshower.co.uk
Cotton-bamboo blend pyjamas £29.50, babymori.com Baby Carrier One Air £159.99, babybjorn.co.uk
3 in 1 Swim £4, childsfarm.com
Piccolo Raspberry & Apple pouch £1.10, waitrose.com
Joie Kubbie travel cot £60, boots.com Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Sensitive Sun Cream SPF 50, £4.50, tesco.com
Hooded poncho towel £21, splashabout.com
ProFold stroller £175, micralite.com Floatsuit £22.99, konfidence.co.uk
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
Forte Village Resort, Sardinia
Relax pool-side at Forte Village
FLYING WITH BABY Take more food and milk than you think you might need so you’re covered in case of delays. Be prepared for baby’s feeding and sleep routines to go out the window when flying – there are just too many distractions to contend with, and it’s impossible to time things properly when you’re dealing with security, boarding, customs and other airport demands. I try to go with the flow and offer my daughter frequent healthy snacks to make sure she’s getting enough to eat. (Snacks can also serve as very useful distractions if your baby is getting bored or frustrated.) Breastfeeding mothers might find themselves feeding more frequently and for longer than usual on flights, because the baby will seek comfort in the strange environment. Pack as many small, non-noisy toys as you can reasonably fit into your carry-on luggage. Soft toys and lift-the-flap books are a good bet, and I find a “stunt wallet”, filled with a few expired loyalty cards that I don’t mind losing, can keep my daughter absorbed for hours. Walking up and down the plane offers your baby endless new sights, sounds and interactions – you’ll probably spend a lot of the flight on your feet! A sling is also a handy tool for helping your little one nap while you’re on the move. We always travel with Calpol, infant Nurofen and teething gel, just in case. To avoid earache, encourage your little one to breastfeed, eat or drink during take-off and landing. It offers a distraction from all the commotion.
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WHERE TO GO…
Check out these holiday hot spots where baby comes, too
Carlisle Bay, Antigua
This slice of paradise has its own private beach, where swaying palm trees offer plenty of natural shade. The pool is great fun; the kids’ club is open to babies from six months old; and a visit to the Blue Spa is the perfect holiday treat for grownups! A garden suite on a bed and breakfast basis from £558, turquoiseholidays.co.uk
Sani Beach Hotel Halkidiki, Greece
The crèche at this elegant all-suite hotel is open to babies from four months old, while Babe Watch lets you enjoy a dip in the sea while qualified staff look after your little one on the beach. With lavish suites and family rooms to relax in, Sani Beach Hotel offers the ultimate relaxed family break. From £160 per night, saniresort.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
so talk to your GP or practice nurse before booking your trip to make sure you’re covered.
With more than two million plants populating its 116-acre park, this tropical paradise has made a mission out of preserving and enhancing the environment – so much so that only bikes and electric vehicles are permitted. Start your day with a lazy breakfast, followed by a trip to the spa for a sea-mud body wrap or honey-and-salt massage. To cool down, take a dip in the crystalclear Mediterranean Sea, or in one of the hotel’s three pools. From £215 per person, per night; under-twos go free, fortevillageresort.com
ADVERTORIAL
Under the sun
LE ADING DER MATOLOGIST Dr Jennifer Crawley WARNS PEOPLE TO BE MINDFUL OF THE SUN’S R AYS ALL YE AR ROUND
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s the weather picks up, sun protection is back in the limelight. But did you know that to avoid long-term sun damage and the risk of developing skin cancer, sun cream needs to be applied all year round? “Any sunburn on children’s skin is especially worrying, because young skin is much thinner than that of an adult, making it far more susceptible to damage,” explains Childs Farm’s consultant dermatologist, Dr Jennifer Crawley. “Sunburn in childhood dramatically increases the chance of skin cancer in later life; it really is imperative that parents take the right steps to protect their little ones when they are outdoors whatever time of year.” With more than 10 years’ experience in dermatology, working from the University College Hospital London, Dr Crawley believes re-education is needed when it comes to sun protection and is urging people to get out of the mindset that sun cream is just for holidays abroad or for peak heatwaves. “I think we need to really make the point when we are talking about sun protection, it’s not just blistering heatwave sun; we are talking about UV light,” Dr Crawley says. “Getting sunburn just once every two years can triple the risk of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. That’s why it’s so important to be applying sun cream all year round. Skin cancers take a long time to occur and this is because of an accumulation of UV damage over time, making it fundamental to protect skin from an early age.” But how do you know when enough is really enough? “One of the main problems we find is that people don’t apply an adequate amount,” says Dr Crawley. “We recommend at least two teaspoons for the head and neck area and two tablespoons for the body. But you can’t apply too much, so use it liberally.” Many of us are aware that sun cream does wear off so will apply twice during the day, but does that cut it? “While this is a good start, sun cream really does need applying more than twice, particularly on very hot days,” explains Dr Crawley. “It’s
Childs Farm’s suncare range helps to protect and moisturise children’s skin
THE GOLDEN RULES also important that whatever your skin type you use one with a high SPF of 30+ that will protect against both UVA and UVB rays, and to make sure the sun protection is suitable for eczema-prone or sensitive skin if you suffer with those conditions.” Reassuring those who enjoy being outdoors, Dr Crawley believes the sun shouldn’t stop the fun. “Everyone should be able to enjoy the outdoors, so don’t let the sun hold you back, just reapply, reapply, reapply!” Childs Farm’s new 30 SPF suncare range is exclusively available at Boots Sun Shop, along with the 50 SPF range, and both are suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Find out more at childsfarm.com
Dr Crawley’s top tips for sun safety • On hot days and when you’re abroad keep little ones in the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is hottest • Cover any exposed skin with sun cream even on cloudy days • Use a high factor SPF 30+ suncream, with protection against UVA and UVB rays • Reapply numerous times throughout the day, especially after swimming • Pay particular attention to forgotten areas such as the shoulders, back of the neck and behind the ears when applying • Where possible, cover up skin with a hat, loose fitting clothing and sunglasses • Always keep babies under the age of six months out of direct sunlight • For those who have sensitive or eczemaprone skin, use a product that has been clinically tested as suitable
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
THE BEST OF THE
SOUTH WEST
IN NEED OF A PERFECT GETAWAY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN DEVON AND CORNWALL, SAYS DEVON RESIDENT Becky Dickinson, WHO CHECKS OUT FOUR OPTIONS FOR YOUNG FAMILIES
Adults and children can while away hours in the sublime outdoor pool
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or the quintessential break, without the hassle of airports and check-ins, but with mesmerising views and endless possibilities for fun and adventure, you can’t beat Devon and Cornwall. From the calm turquoise waters of the English Riviera, to ancient fishing villages and winding coastal paths, to frothing waves and soft sandy beaches, the only difficulty is deciding where to go. This beautiful corner of England is where memories are made and time stands still (at least for a week or two). So if you’re looking for that elusive combination of fun and relaxation – for adults and children alike – combined with fantastic food and unrivalled luxury, the following four options have it all in (buckets and) spades...
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THURLESTONE HOTEL, Kingsbridge, Devon
The South Hams region, in deepest Devon, is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK, set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Our base there was the idyllic Thurlestone Hotel, where our room came with a sea-view balcony. Thurlestone boasts sheltered beaches and unspoilt surroundings, without the bustle of its more famous neighbour Salcombe. The hotel has indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a golf course, table tennis, badminton and a children’s playroom. Food is also firstclass. The breakfast buffet had everything from smashed avocado to a full English – although for the children it was all about the DIY waffle station. prideofbritainhotels.com, thurlestone.co.uk
Golf is just one of the activities on offer at Thurlestone
FOWEY HALL, Fowey, Cornwall
For a family getaway ideal for children and parents alike, Fowey Hall, on the south Cornish coast, ticks all the boxes. Our vast family suite overlooked the estuary; flanked by rhododendrons with boats bobbing on the water, it was like gazing out at a postcard. This well-preserved manor house-turned-hotel has everything: a restaurant serving seasonal Cornish food, a complimentary crèche, a spa and endless places for children to play. Fowey is just a short walk from the hotel. Its name rhymes with joy – an apt description for this ancient fishing port full of colourful cafes. Fowey Hall Hotel is part of the Luxury Family Hotels collection. luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk
Childhood unplugged at Fowey Hall
CARY ARMS AND SPA, Babbacombe, Devon
As we turned into the Cary Arms and Spa, in the sheltered haven of Babbacombe Bay, on the south Devon coast, there was nothing but ocean in front of us. This luxury boutique de Savary hotel offers a selection of chic selfcatering cottages, as well as a glass-faceted sea-facing spa. Nestled into the hillside, our aptly named ‘Smuggler’s Cottage’ provided everything we needed, from board games to a children’s den, and a welcome hamper including sticks of rock for the children and sloe gin for the grown-ups. The South West Coast Path sits literally on the doorstep and is ideal for long walks, which can be followed with a feast of local fish, seasonal veg and indulgent desserts at the hotel’s excellent restaurant. caryarms.co.uk
THE ESPLANADE HOTEL, Newquay, Cornwall
As the most searched for Cornish resort on Google, Newquay remains one of Britain’s best loved holiday destinations. Its seven soft sandy beaches, with their glorious waves, are popular with families and surfers alike. The Esplanade is a contemporary hotel, just a pebble’s throw from Fistral beach – a perfect spot for sandcastle-making, sand dune-jumping and surfing. The hotel has a surf school and surf hire on site, so there’s no excuse for not getting wet. And there’s a pool and Jacuzzi to relax in afterwards, plus a soft play area and outdoor pirate ship for young ones. The sea-facing restaurant serves delicious fare, and there’s an adjoining bar with live music for night owls. Well, when on holiday… esplanadehotelnewquay.co.uk
Newquay is one of Britain’s most popular seaside destinations, especially with surfers
Moorvista, South Devon
OUR EXCLUSIVE, HANDPICKED ESCAPES ACROSS ENGLAND AND WALES ALL OFFER SOMETHING UNIQUE, THOSE LITTLE TOUCHES OF LUXURY FOR THE MOST MEMORABLE STAYS. FIND YOUR NICHE: WWW.NICHERETREATS.CO.UK | 03333 058 404
As you soak up the sun at Niyama Maldives, your little VIPs will be having fun at the Explorers Kids Club
Rest assured
WANT A FAMILY BRE AK WITH A BAL ANCE? Jo Caird FINDS THE BEST HOLIDAY CRÈCHES FOR UNDER-T WOS
T
hey say that a change is as good as a rest, but when it comes to going on holiday with your baby, sometimes a change isn’t going to cut it. When you feel like kicking back and enjoying a few hours of child-free time on your well-earned break, a crèche can be an excellent solution. Kids’ clubs used to be limited to older children, and while in many destinations that’s still the case, these days more hotels and resorts are now providing childcare for the under-twos, too. Travel in low-season and childcare might be included in the cost of your stay. Some areas of the world are better represented for early years childcare than others: it can still be tricky to find in South East Asia and the Middle East. As with crèches at home, you’ll most likely need to stay onsite. Booking childcare and crèche sessions ahead is a good idea, too – just check the individual hotel’s policy when making your reservation. Stay at Powder Byrne’s Flims Waldhaus in Switzerland and baby essentials are provided
The Franklyn D. Resort offers a nanny service
NIYAMA PRIVATE ISLANDS, MALDIVES This escape is the only one of its kind on the island with a crèche, but fortunately for you, it has also been voted as one of the best resorts in the world (Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2017). Open from 9am to 6pm each day, the Explorers Kids Club offers activities for children aged one to 12 years, including baby yoga and story time. Book your child into a morning or afternoon session, or for the whole day (lunch included), paying $20 per hour or up to $100 per day. niyama.com
POWDER BYRNE, AUSTRIA AND SWITZERLAND Thought having a baby meant putting your annual ski holiday on ice? Think again. Powder Byrne offers a crèche service at its ski resorts in Austria (Zürs) and Switzerland (Flims, Arosa, Lenzerheide), allowing you to hit the slopes while your little one has fun. Travel outside of the school holidays and the crèche service is free; in peak periods, you pay up to £565 for six days. To save on packing, Powder Byrne will also provide nappies, wipes and formula, then charge it to your bill later. powderbyrne.com
FRANKLYN D. RESORT, JAMAICA This four-star resort goes one better than a crèche, instead providing a dedicated nanny to each family, which is included in the price of your stay. She’ll be with you from 8.30am to 4.30pm daily, looking after your little one with you on the beach, in your suite, poolside, or whisking them off for Kids’ Club activities. Your nanny’s also trained in housekeeping, so it’s her job to keep your suite looking tidy and your fridge stocked up. Nanny services are charged at $12 per hour (minimum of two hours). fdrholidays.com
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
Villas at Martinhal Quinta each have their own pool
MARTINHAL QUINTA, PORTUGAL Book a low-season stay at the Martinhal resort in Quinta and you’ll pay nothing when you use the resort’s crèche (two sessions each per day: 10am to 1pm, and 2pm to 4pm). During high season, the crèche is open from 9.30am to 5.30pm, and charged at €25 for a minimum two-hour booking, with each additional hour charged at €10. Activities for babies aged six to 23 months include baby gymnastics, music and sensory sessions and puppet shows, and while some snacks are included, lunch is charged separately. martinhal.com
BEDRUTHAN, CORNWALL Overlooking Mawgan Porth Beach, Bedruthan is a family-oriented hotel. One night’s babysitting and two hours of daily childcare at The Bee Hive are complimentary for guests. Childcare hours begin at 9.30am and 11.30am, with the later session including free lunch. Extra sessions are £20 for two hours. All staff are DBS-checked, and there’s a maximum ratio of three babies to one host. bedruthan.com
SAN LUCIANU BEACH RESORT, CORSICA Babies between four and 11 months old are greeted with open arms at the Baby Club in Babysitting is available at Bedruthan
Toddlers are well looked after at San Lucianu Beach Resort
this ruggedly beautiful resort. Opt for six morning sessions (9am to 12.30pm; £220), afternoon sessions (2.30pm to 5.30pm; £180) or both (£400). For children aged one to two years, activities at The Toddler Club include riding trikes and fun in the ball pool. There’s also free evening childcare for babies, so you can dine at the hotel restaurant. markwarner.co.uk
The Ickworth Hotel in Suffolk welcomes children
THE ICKWORTH, SUFFOLK Who said country house hotels are just for grown-ups? The Four Bears Den at The Ickworth Hotel in Suffolk is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm (4pm on Sundays), for kids aged three months to eight years.
Take advantage of two hours of free childcare for each night of your stay, while your little ones take part in craft activities, games and unstructured play. The Sunday Breakfast Club is an added perk, where children aged three and over can be collected from your room at 8.15am, so you can treat yourself to a muchneeded lie-in. Bliss! luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk
SKI FAMILLE, FRANCE
Ski Famille in France specialises in ski holidays for families
Make the most of France’s huge Les 3 Vallées ski area with a stay at one of Ski Famille’s family-friendly chalets in Reberty. The Mini Marmots childcare services take place in your chalet, allowing you more time to ski. Sessions take place between 9am to 5pm, six days a week, for children aged four months to four years (£399 per child, per week, including lunch and activities). skifamille.co.uk
Time for the little things
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES Enjoy cocktails at The Residence bar looking out across the Indian Ocean
LIVING IT UP Richard Webber LISTS THE MOST L AVISH ALL-INCLUSIVE FAMILY RESORTS
ZANZIBAR, The Residence
Cocooned within tropical gardens and fringed by a milelong beach, The Residence immerses you in secluded beauty. At this luxurious villa resort just off the coast of Tanzania, you and your family will find a world of relaxation and high-class hospitality. Check out the onsite boat house and jetty, where guests can try exciting water sports, including kayaking and pedal boats. Afterwards, unwind on the beach or with poolside ice cream and fruit skewers! Activities for kids include cooking classes, Swahili lessons and volleyball games. Parents can relax, too, with yoga sessions, babysitting services, bicycle and buggy tours and a beachside infinity pool. Where do we sign up? Powder Byrne offers seven nights for a family of four from £4,400, including transfers (not flights). Under twos travel free. powderbyrne.com
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, Dreams Punta Cana
MAURITIUS, Heritage Le Telfair
Set amid the Heritage Bel Ombre Estate, this vast 2,500 hectare resort offers a safe, idyllic setting for a family holiday. The verdant topography, long white beach and azure waters are a picture-perfect backdrop. And now Heritage Resorts offers family experiences, including spa days with mini facials and manis for the kids, family picnics in its nature reserve, cooking classes, outdoor theatre and cinema. With a dedicated kids’ club, too, children can play while parents indulge in spa sessions, watersports or a romantic dinner. From £952 per person per night, based on two adults and two children sharing a suite. heritageresorts.mu
A lush tropical paradise overlooking a pristine beach with turquoise waters – say hello to Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa, which offers a picturesque view from every guest room. Enjoy unlimited luxury with a choice of themed restaurants, chic bars and a swimming pool that winds its way from the lobby to the beach, complete with swim-up bar. Live nightly shows complement the daily activities, including snorkelling, volleyball, bike riding and horse riding. Young ones will love The Explorer’s Club’s outdoor cinema, sandcastle competitions, playground and pirate ship waterslide. The Holiday Place offers seven nights from £869 per person, including flights and transfers. holidayplace.co.uk
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
MALDIVES, Kuramathi
Kuramathi is located on one of five islands within the tiny archipelago of Rasdu Atoll. Villas are scattered across the isle’s lush gardens, never-ending beaches, or poised over water. With much of the island relatively untouched, families can explore deserted beaches and virgin vegetation. A kids’ club will keep children occupied during the day with treasure hunts, nature walks and beach activities. In the grounds, there is a whale seesaw, swings, slide, jungle gym and sand pit. Outdoor sports include badminton and table tennis. Kuoni offers seven nights full board in a beach villa, including flights and transfers, from £1,893 per person (based on 2019 departures). kuoni.co.uk
CORFU, Ikos Dassia
On the island of Corfu, contemporary Mediterranean style meets traditional Greek hospitality in the tranquil surrounds of Ikos Dassia. Framed by fragrant woodland, this luxurious resort, which opened its doors in 2018, has dazzling views across the Ionian Sea. The beachfront setting ensures that each of the 411 luxury rooms, suites and villas come with views. There’s much to excite children of all ages, with a packed programme of events and games, including mini discos, gymnastics, Olympic Games and treasure hunts. Adults can play tennis or unwind with yoga. And a stay at the hotel comes with a one-off complimentary use of a Mini Cooper to take a spin around the island’s sites. From £312 per night for family room. Flights not included. ikosresorts.com
ANTIGUA, Curtain Bluff
Set on a rocky promontory, this privately-owned hotel fulfils all your family’s expectations. Its 72 luxurious rooms and suites with private balconies or terraces overlook the Atlantic beach’s gentle surf. Down on the idyllic white sand, guests can enjoy a host of activities, including windsurfing, scuba diving and snorkelling. On dry land, sports such as tennis, golf and squash await. With the onsite kids’ club, little ones can fish on the dock, make ice cream and design their own T-shirts. And for parents, there is a spa where you can indulge in beauty treatments, yoga and Pilates. Tropic Breeze offers seven nights from £9,180 for two adults and two children sharing a junior suite, including flights and transfers. tropicbreeze.co.uk
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SOUTH AFRICA, Kwandwe
This private game reserve in the heart of South Africa’s unspoilt Eastern Cape offers a magical family safari. Not only will kids experience a Lion King-style adventure of their own, spotting giraffes, elephants, zebras, warthogs et al, they’ll also enjoy interactive educational activities tailored to each age group. These include learning about animal behaviour and kite building, while younger kids will be fascinated by the Bugs & Bones walk, a great way to stretch little legs while searching for creepy crawlies and animal tracks. If that wasn’t enough, they can also try sand art, fishing with a ranger and pizza-making. Familyfriendly accommodation includes safari villas and suites at Ecca Lodge. Prices for a private family villa (based on six guests) from £2,500 per night. Flights not included. kwandwe.com
MEXICO,
Dreams Playa Mujeres Surrounded by secluded, powder-white sandy beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters, this resort boasts 502 lavishly equipped suites, 13 bars and a host of swimming pools, including two infinity pools with breathtaking sea views, six whirlpools, a kids’ pool and waterparks. Activities include beach volleyball, stage shows and snorkelling. Two kids’ clubs offer theatre shows and sandcastle contests, while daily adventures focus on nature, science and technology. Teenagers, meanwhile, can hit the climbing wall, enjoy bonfires and take kayak tours. The Holiday Place offers seven nights for two adults and two children sharing a junior suite from £1,079 per person, including flights. holidayplace.co.uk
YO U , YO U R FA M I LY, P E L I G O N I a place made special by those who visit
T h e Pe l ig o n i C l u b | Z a k y n t h o s I s l a n d | G re e c e p e l ig o n i . c o m | 02 0 8 74 0 3 0 0 1 | i n fo @ p e l ig o n i . c o m
THE ST REGIS, MAURITIUS Mauritius is a dream for families, full of all-singing, all-dancing resorts. The St Regis is one of the best – and at The Kite Flyers club, kids run wild on treasure hunts, toast marshmallows and learn to cook, with butlers on tap to ensure their every need is met. Seven nights in an Ocean Junior Suite, on a half-board basis, costs from £4,198 for a family of four. sallyandalice.com
Join the club…
FROM SAILING IN SE ARCH OF TRE ASURE TO HONING GL ADIATOR SKILLS IN ROME, Holly Tuppen FINDS THE WORLD’S TOP KIDS’ CLUBS
A
s much as we all adore our children, sometimes qualitytime apart is as important as time together. Without childcare, a holiday can quickly become a battle of bargaining, as parents frantically vie for a few moments of peace. Throw a crèche and kids’ club into the mix, and everyone wins.
ROME CAVALIERI, ITALY This luxury hotel packs a punch when it comes to family fun. Before braving the crowds at the nearby Coliseum, kids in the hotel’s IT Club can swot up on sword-wielding, Latin and fighting etiquette during private gladiator lessons. Other destination-appropriate fun includes pasta and pizza-making, and riding mini Vespas. The Sunday brunch is legendary, and there’s a separate room for children. Rooms from £209 per night. romecavalieri.com
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BELLA MARE, GREECE Making full use of its stunning beachfront location, the adventurefocused Dolphins club at the Bella Mare Hotel in Corfu is all about encouraging freedom for children, and leaving the adults to enjoy some rest and relaxation. Immersive and hands-on activities include sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Tribe is a separate programme aimed at teens, offering Ride a Vespa? A must-do for a Roman holiday
Bella Mare’s Dolphin club offers children the chance to try watersports
Explore the area around Château St Pierre de Serjac on a bike
SONEVA KIRI, THAILAND With chocolate rooms, ice-cream parlours and open-air cinemas, there’s a lot for young guests to like at Soneva Kiri. The Den is a favourite with kids’ club connoisseurs. Its sustainability-minded bamboo playground weaves like a manta ray through this palm-filled idyll. Musical jamming sessions and rainforest walks are a few of the things on offer. A Bayview Pool Villa Suite costs from £700 per night. soneva.com/soneva-kiri
ROUND HILL HOTEL & VILLAS, JAMAICA
Jamaica’s Round Hill Hotel is an idyllic retreat for families
workouts, chillouts and even mocktail-making classes! Seven nights costs from £780 per person, including flights and transfers. simpsontravel.com
CHÂTEAU ST PIERRE DE SERJAC, FRANCE Surrounded by Languedoc’s rolling vineyards, St Pierre de Serjac is a fairytale setting for a family holiday, with free-range fun in the bilingual kids’ club, plus den-building and archaeological digs. Busy days justify movie nights, leaving parents to dine in peace. Seven nights in a two-bed residence costs from £2,483. serjac.com Parents can relax at Martinhal Sagres
Jamaica’s most iconic hotel and perhaps its most child-friendly, Round Hill is set in a private bay and 30 acres of lush grounds. The Pineapple and 7-Up kids’ clubs keep children of all ages busy with locally-inspired activities from reggae lessons to watersports. An Oceanfront View Room costs from £354 per night, based on a family of three sharing. i-escape.com/ round-hill-hotel-villas
MARTINHAL SAGRES, PORTUGAL High above the dunes on one of the Algarve’s most undeveloped stretches of coast, the Martinhal Beach Resort in Sagres caters to all ages. The area for kids has a crèche for tiny ones, activities including cookery, dolphinwatching and T-shirt painting, and a Sports Academy, where older children can hone their windsurfing, tennis and football skills. One night costs from £171. totstotravel.co.uk
GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA Grootbos has perfected responsible luxury travel in South Africa’s Overberg region, a few hours from Cape Town. Lodges look over the wild sands and caves of Walker Bay. Young
The Forest Lodge at Grootbos Nature Reserve looks out across Walker Bay
Let your child be carefree in Kenya
guests can garden and horse-ride, while older kids can explore on bikes. One night, with meals, soft drinks and most landbased activities, costs from £1,380 for a family of four. grootbos.com
&BEYOND KICHWA TEMBO, KENYA A safari might not spring to mind when pondering a relaxing family break, but &Beyond has it covered; its WILDChild programme offers mind-enhancing activities from fishing to animal tracking, to picking fruit and veg in the kitchen garden, and even making bows and arrows with Masai warriors. A Tented Camp costs from £1,150 per night for a family of four. andBeyond.com
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
Ski right up to your hotel at Club Med La Plagne,
MO
UN
RE A R E DY T SO RT O H I SW TT ITH HE S A L LO P E S? OT N MO R E atalie K TO eele OFF r UNC ER T OV E R S T H LA PLAGNE H E FA M I LY A N JUS WHERE? France T SKI RUNS… SKI RANGE: 1,250m to 3,250m
TA
IN
FLAIR
PISTES: 225km LIFT PASS: nder-fives go free
WHAT TO DO La Plagne is one of six ski resorts linked by a shuttle bus along a steep mountainside. The vast and gentle pistes are perfect for families, and each resort also has a snow kindergarten, where little ones aged three and up can learn to ski. Off the slopes, thrill-seekers can try skidooing, paragliding or the bobsleigh run, while parents and children will love La Plagne’s Igloo Village.
ASPEN SNOWMASS
WHERE TO STAY
WHAT TO DO
Chalet Delphine, skifamille.co.uk Club Med La Plagne, clubmed.co.uk
This Colorado resort is full of charm, with four mountains that are accessible with a free shuttle bus. Glide across acres of glistening snow while your little ones get stuck into ski school. If you don’t fancy skiing, fly fishing, hot-air ballooning and sleigh rides are some of the other activities on offer. There’s also a babysitting services for parents-only evenings.
Chalet Delphine offers families space and privacy
WHERE? North America SKI RANGE: 2,473m to 3,813m PISTES: 237km LIFT PASS: nder-sevens go free
WHERE TO STAY Hotel Aspen, hotelaspen.com Molly Gibson Lodge, ski-i.com
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES COURCHEVEL
WHERE? France SKI RANGE: 1,350m to 2,738m PISTES: 150km LIFT PASS: nder-fives go free Soak up the après-ski sun from Hotel Austria
WHAT TO DO Set in Three Valleys, the biggest interconnected ski area in the world, grown-ups can visit slopeside piano bars and spas, while kids enjoy the Village des Enfants’ child-friendly slopes.
LECH
WHERE TO STAY Chalet Elan, espritski.com Hotel Les Sherpas, scottdunn.com
Hotel Les Sherpas has easy access to the nursery slopes
WHERE? Austria SKI RANGE: 1,450m to 2,450m PISTES: 280km LIFT PASS: Under-eights go free
WHAT TO DO Lech has access to loads of skiing, with free buses to the resorts of Zürs and St Anton, as well as a gondola link to Warth’s slopes. Just 200m above Lech is Oberlech, a car-free, skiin/ski-out area. Tired of skis? Hire a toboggan at the Oberlech mountain railway.
WHERE TO STAY The Goldener Berg, scottdunn.com Hotel Austria, powderbyrne.com
GRESSONEY
Picturesque Tremblant is an ideal resort for beginners
WHERE? Italy SKI RANGE: 1,200m to 2,970m PISTES: 180km LIFT PASS: Under-eights go free
ST MORITZ
WHERE? Switzerland SKI RANGE: 1,730m to 3,300m PISTES: 350km LIFT PASS: Under-sixes go free
WHAT TO DO
WHAT TO DO
Once a well-kept secret, this region has been growing in popularity, especially with families. Which is no surprise, since it offers great skiing opportunities at every level. For young learners, there’s a nursery and ski kindergarten for full/half-days, allowing parents to ski the world-renowned off-piste.
Corviglia, one of St Moritz’s five ski areas, is well suited to families; there are lots of blue runs. Many of the hotels offer daycare services, have children’s restaurants and can arrange babysitting and ski school. Also lots of ski-in/ski-out options, and a snow park where mini freestylers can try out obstacles.
WHERE TO STAY Chalet Valverde, espritski.com Chalet du Lys, crystalski.com Gressoney lies at the heart of Monterosa’s ski circuit
TREMBLANT
WHERE? Canada SKI RANGE: 230m to 875m PISTES: 81.9km LIFT PASS: Under-threes go free
WHAT TO DO This traffic-free resort in Québec is one of the best for beginners. Board the heated gondola to scale the mountain before gliding down, while little ones perfect their snow skills with first-class instructors. Go dogsledding for a fun, off-slope adventure.
WHERE TO STAY Place St-Bernard, crystalski.co.uk Le Westin Resort, marriott.com
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WHERE TO STAY Nira Alpina, powderbyrne.com Saint-Moritz Roi Soleil, clubmed.com Stay in contemporary Alpine chic at the Nira Alpina hotel
Ahandpi ck edcol l ect i onofdes i gnl ed f ami l yhol i daycot t agesi nunf or get t abl e Nor t humber l andcoas t al l ocat i ons
www. coas t al r et r eat s . co. uk
Eight beautiful family run cosy cottages in the perfect location to enjoy both coastlines and many of Cornwall’s top attractions. Let the kids explore at will in the safety of our 13 acres. Enjoy our outdoor fun throughout the week such as marshmallow toasting, scavenger hunts and crafting sessions. Perhaps most importantly… just relax and unwind. Whatever the weather Glynn Barton has you covered! - Heated indoor swimming pool - Hot tub - Indoor soft play – Tennis Court – Outdoor Maze & Giant Fort – Trampoline - – Play barn full of Toys & Games – Toddler Ride on Area – Animal Feeding & Egg Collecting – BBQ areas & Pizza oven – Honesty Shop stocked with Cornish Goodies and ‘Cook’ homemade meals – onsite spa treatments – Private Chefs - Babysitting – Swimming lessons #GlynnBartonCottages 01208 821 104 stay@glynnbarton.co.uk www.glynnbarton.co.uk
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ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPES
Next holiday for Wren could be to Thailand When it comes to buying clothes for Wren, Helen is a huge fan of Zara Kids Cotton-blend dress £14.99, zara.com
Wren’s father is Helen’s Call the Midwife co-star Jack Ashton
Did you travel anywhere nice this summer? We went to Fowey Hall in Cornwall, which is part of the Luxury Family Hotels Group, and it was wonderful. The hotel group caters for families really well, so any of the normal problems that present themselves when you have children just disappear. We loved the baby-listening service, too, which meant Jack and I could enjoy a meal and a glass of wine in peace, knowing Wren was totally safe. How do you like to spend your days on holiday? I always like to do a bit of everything, but I hadn’t realised how much that would change when you have a baby or a toddler. We’d never want to go away anywhere that’s too hot, as Wren has red hair and fair skin, so we can’t spend too much time in the sun. I think that’s what’s great about having kids, though – you start rediscovering the things you used to do when you were a child. We’ve recently started
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HELEN GEORGE
We catch up with the Call the Midwife star and mother to baby Wren, to talk family holidays and travel essentials going to a lot of National Trust properties and exploring lots of castles together, and I’m really enjoying that. Poolside or beachside? I love the idea of lying on a beach and reading a book all day, but that becomes more difficult when you have a little one! Our holidays have become a lot more active since we became parents. The Luxury Family Hotels Group offers Helen and her family the perfect staycations
Beauty Elixir (30ml) £12, caudalie.com
Organised packer or last-minute madness? I’m pretty organised. If I haven’t started prepping what I’m going to take on holiday two days before I go, I feel really unprepared. There’s nothing worse than being on a Greek island and realising you’ve forgotten something, and there’s nowhere nearby that sells what you need.
Do you have any go-to travel essentials? For Wren, I always take Huggies Little Swimmers nappies, and a good baby wash. I love Neal’s Yard Baby Bath & Shampoo, as it cuts through the grease of all the suncream you’ve been layering on their skin throughout the day. Wardrobe-wise, her staple is definitely Zara Kids, as the clothes are easy and stylish. Then for myself, I take a hair mask to stop my hair getting too dry, and I always take a face mist when I’m travelling. At the moment, I have Caudalie’s Beauty Elixir Face Mist, which keeps me feeling fresh. Where’s next on the hit list? After I’ve finished filming Call the Midwife and rehearsing for a play I’m in, I have a few weeks off over Christmas, which I’m so excited about. I’m hoping to travel somewhere a bit further, perhaps to Thailand. I’d love to take Wren to Lapland over Christmas one day as well, but she’s a bit young at the moment, so we’ll have to wait for that one!
PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/@HELENRGEORGE; PA IMAGES/MATT CROSSICK; MATT CROSSICK/EMPICS ENTERTAINMENT
MY TRAVELS
Huggies Little Swimmers (pack of 12) £5.75, mothercare.com
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HEALTH
A WHALE OF A TIME
Stylish and functional lifestyle brand Skip Hop has just made bathtime more fun with its ‘must-haves made better’ collection. The whale shape of the Moby Bath Mat and Bath Spout Cover keeps baby safe and introduces an adorable friend to tub time. The hand-held starfish Moby and Friends Showerhead easily rinses off soap while keeping suds out of little one’s eyes, and the Zoo Light UP Bath toy featuring wateractivated lights is sure to make a splash with baby! From £8, amazon.co.uk
ALL THINGS MOTHERHOOD with NEEV SPENCER
H
ello! I’m pleased to say me and my two girls are doing really well; Vivienne is now through that first stage after her arrival into the world and all I can say is phew! After my c-section, breastfeeding was an uphill struggle, but we got there in the end. A few things helped along the way: Pure Fenugreek Capsules made a difference, and also eating enough food across the day with plenty of water – something you have to remind yourself about as a busy mum! I used MAM Nipple Shields, because Vivienne’s latch was quite strong, and went for the brand’s steriliser, because mixed feeding worked best for me. I’ve been to see Kam Panesar again at London Osteopathic Care for a post-birth check over for us both. She observed Vivienne was having trouble turning her neck to one side and used cranial osteopathy to unfold the cranial bones, gently releasing tension through the cranium, neck and shoulder. She was then able to open her mouth wider and turn without discomfort, which made breastfeeding easier and a lot less painful. My recovery from birth has been smooth, but while my body was weaker, I used the Mamaway Post-Natal Recovery Belt, which made moving around the house much easier. I’m now really craving exercise and movement, so next month is all about the start of my healthy and balanced post-baby fitness regime! Check out baby-magazine.co.uk and @neevofficial for more from me
I’M LOVING...
Lactation Cookies by Boobbix that contain lots of yummy ingredients that build milk flow and make those middle-of-the-night feeds less weary – the Oatmeal Raisin ones are my favourite! £9.20, boobbix.co.uk
health & beauty
NEWS
THE L ATEST PRODUCTS AND INNOVATIONS IN THE WORLD OF WELLBEING
Introducing gentle-on-skin, charitygiving new skincare brand Nursem. Its hand cream, hand wash and hand fix have been ex ertly develo ed ith nurses and use lant-based ingredients actively roven to rotect, revive and recu erate hard orking hands or every roduct sold, a month’s worth of free hand cream will be given to a NHS nurse or midwife. From £9.99, boots.com
HEALTH EXPERTS BLUEIRON IS LAUNCHING A SPECIALLY FORMULATED PREGNANCY LIQUID IRON SUPPLEMENT WITH A 50% HIGHER IRON CONCENTRATION. USED BY FINNISH MIDWIVES FOR YEARS, THE SUPPLEMENT ENSURES HEALTHY GROWTH FOR MUM AND BABY. £14.99, BLUEIRON.CO.UK
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HEALTH
Beauty & the bump Mar tha Alexander INVESTIGATES THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY BE AUT Y TRE ATMENTS FOR EXPECTANT MUMS regnancy brings uncertainty, but one thing’s guaranteed – your body will change. Some women get lucky – their hair thickens and shines like that of a prize-winning pony; their skin becomes luminous and soft; their nails harden with health. Others don’t. Breakouts of pimples, greasy hair and dry skin can all be unwelcome features of a normal pregnancy. I had a hefty dose of chloasma – a skin condition that made me tan especially vigorously on my upper lip so that I went into labour with a handlebar moustache comprised of freckles. Whether you feel like a goddess or a gremlin during pregnancy, it’s prudent to look closely at what you put on your body. Increasing numbers of pregnant women are seeking non-toxic alternatives to products in their cosmetic armoury. This is not about scaremongering: just because something is not organic doesn’t mean it is dangerous. However, pregnant women should approach some products with caution and avoid others. These include Retinol and substances derived from vitamin A – an excess of which has been linked to birth defects and parabens, which are found in plenty of cosmetics, and can disrupt hormone function. Choosing products with no ‘nasties’ bring peace of mind when you can be fraught with worry – you know that everything going into your system is pure. Also, during
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pregnancy, your sense of smell can be razor sharp. Scents you previously coveted can make you queasy, compounding what is already some full-on nausea. Products comprised of natural ingredients tend to be less traumatising to sensitive nostrils. But, where to start in cultivating your pregnancy beauty regime?
TEETH
NAILS
HAIR
Many pregnant women have queries over the safety of visiting a nail salon, where unavoidable chemical fumes circulate. Nail polish itself has come under scrutiny recently
The Head & Hair Heal haircare products by Maria Nila are 100 per cent vegan and contain an allergen-free perfume for sensitive skin. The shampoo comes into its own for postnatal hair washes. Many women experience hair loss after birth but this shampoo contains vitamin E, apigenin and peptides which stimulate hair follicles for hair growth, while oleanolic acid prevents hair loss. Maria Nila also makes an excellent styling spray, free from parabens and sulphates, so you won’t be contending with cloying chemical vapours. We’re also keen on Lani Tropical Hair Treatment, a fusion of natural oils, including macadamia and coconut. Run through your hair and leave for 10 minutes, or overnight, before washing out and enjoying soothed tresses.
Teeth are vulnerable during pregnancy – there is an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Using harsh mouthwashes, pastes and treatments that contain bleaches should be avoided. Billion Dollar Smile offers a brilliant whitening tooth polish made from natural coconut oil, charcoal and pineapple enzyme.
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as many brands contain ingredients such as dibutyl phthalate, which can cause fertility issues, or parabens and formaldehyde, which are both carcinogenic. Non-toxic nail polish brands are increasingly popular, but we recommend Nailberry: it is oxygenated, which allows your nails to breath and keeps them from becoming brittle. Kester Black is also free from nasties and boasts a kaleidoscope of colours (Blossom is gorgeous). Both these brands lasted as long as any other high-end nail polish.
FRAGRANCE Fragrance is a tricky one to navigate when you’re expecting, but there are a couple that
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
CHOOSING PRODUCTS WITH NO ‘NASTIES’ BRING PEACE OF MIND
HEALTH
Enhance your natural glow as a pregnant woman with a pure and simple beauty regime
won’t overwhelm your senses. Artemis at Dawn – a scented balm by Fat and The Moon – is a little pot of joy comprised of just five natural ingredients: sunflower oil, beeswax, patchouli, rose geranium and black pepper. It sits subtly on your skin and evokes a verdant, earthy atmosphere. Thameen London creates fragrances suitable for babies, thanks to hypoallergenic ingredients and light notes – but these three scents are also popular among pregnant women who want something that’s sweet but clean and light.
MAKE-UP Your skin can be unpredictable – becoming a different creature to the one you’ve lived with thus far. You’ll want to keep things simple when it comes to your make-up. Balance Me Instant Lift Primer is a great place to start for a complexion that might be feeling confused. Made from 99 per cent natural ingredients, it tightens pores and delivers a smooth, glowing complexion. Zao Essence of Nature offers gorgeous products, particularly the aloe vera mascara which is as good as any designer offering, but with 100 per cent natural ingredients. During pregnancy, your legs put up with a lot – the extra weight you are carrying, the waddle (I was a champion), and the swollen ankles. This Works Perfect Legs Skin Miracle is essentially an enriching mask and foundation for your pins, rolled into one, to give them a bit of a pep.
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ADVERTORIAL
Prepare for the weaning journey by investing in Thermapen’s First Foods digital thermometer
Just right er a en as laun ed t e rst di ital baby ood t er o eter to el arents ensure t at t e te erature is ust ri t e ery ti e hermapen, the UK’s leading specialist thermometer brand, has launched its First Foods digital thermometer, designed to accurately check the temperature of baby’s food and milk during weaning and beyond; offering speed and convenience for parents who want to ensure that their little one’s food temperature is safe every time. Research shows that a quarter of UK parents (25 per cent) have concerns when it comes to weaning, and that as many as 5.5m have accidentally burned their little one while giving them food or milk that was too hot. The research carried out by Thermapen also found that a huge six out of 10 parents don’t know what temperature their baby’s food should be. Nearly three quarters of the parents surveyed (71 per cent) admitted they would feel less anxious if they had the right equipment to test the food accurately, and more than a fifth (22 per cent) of parents are unsure about how to test the temperature of their child’s food correctly, with some using techniques such as testing with their finger, a
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for families on the go, easily fitting into a changing bag. Child nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed, said: “I’m asked questions every day about introducing babies to solid foods. It can be a really nerve-racking experience for many parents. One of my aims is to help take the pressure off and fill mums and dads with confidence when offering their babies food and make the experience enjoyable for both parents and their little ones. “My top tip would be to prepare for weaning as much as you can. It’s good to do a bit of reading in advance to build your own confidence before you start. It can also be a good idea to get equipment ready, such as plastic or bamboo bowls and spoons for baby and the Thermapen First Foods digital thermometer is also a good option to help you get the temperature of baby’s first foods right.”
spoon or tasting it themselves before serving. Embarking on the weaning journey can be a stressful time, especially for first-time parents. Let the First Foods digital thermometer help take the guesswork out of heating baby food, breast milk or formula. The blunt tip makes it safe to use around little ones, while the easy to read digital display gives an accurate temperature reading in under three Exclusive offer: Baby magazine seconds – perfect when you have readers receive 20 per cent off First Foods digital a little one waiting impatiently for when quoting BABY-20 at thermometer, their lunch, plus it conveniently thermapen.co.uk. Valid until £39.99, thermapen.co.uk folds away, meaning it’s perfect 31/12/2019.
Age
Weaning stage
Temperature guide
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Established weaning: shepherd’s pie, curries and pasta sauces
4-46°C
Q&A
RUNNING HEAD
with fertility expert
Zita West
We’ve been trying for another baby for two years. At the age of 40, am I experiencing secondary infertility?
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
I
t’s not uncommon to experience difficulty • Nutrition and diet: Many mums, especially conceiving a second child if you fell pregnant if they’re working, aren’t getting the proper quickly the first time around. Known as nutrition they need to create a baby. When secondary infertility, the condition is far from they get home from work, they have a baby abnormal but most women never expect it to to bathe and put to bed, and they don’t happen. I’m often asked about it and there are nourish themselves enough. Looking at diet several key things that I look at: and nutrition is really important as this can • Age: Your age and how long you’ve been impact egg quality. Often mothers put all their trying for are key factors in understanding energy into their family and home, leaving your fertility status the second time around. their own health and wellbeing further down Women that are getting pregnant later in life the pecking order. You need to make space are often keen to try for a second baby quite for yourself and look after your diet, sleep and quickly and I regularly see mothers panicking exercise needs. Look at the key areas in your about the age gap between their children life and create some time for nourishment. or the time of year their child will be born. • Exhaustion: If you’re a working mum, you’ll These kinds of thoughts create hurdles where likely be exhausted by the time the weekend a positive mindset is much more beneficial. comes, so catching up on your sleep and • Sex: You absolutely have to have having a bit of time to yourself more sex to get pregnant a second ed is vital. Often when I speak to Recommend time – aim for at least three couples that are struggling product times a week. Many women I to conceive the second see just aren’t having enough or third time around, sex because they’re exhausted their lifestyles are a from trying to juggle looking big contributing factor. after a toddler and working, and Both parents report not Vitafem food supplement £24.50, zitawest.com therefore they lack the energy. getting enough sleep,
they’re too tired to have regular sex, and having their baby in the bed is draining them. You’ve got to find a way to build up energy, because you need a lot of it to get pregnant. • Supplements: I’m a huge believer in taking supplements. Alongside a healthy diet, multivitamins and minerals like omega 3 and folate provide essential boosts for your body. • Underlying medical issues: When you have your first baby, sometimes things can happen that create complications when you come to the second attempt. For instance, you could have sustained a thyroid issue, or you might find that you’ve become anaemic. You may have put on some weight and need to drop a few pounds to be healthier, or your hormones might be less balanced than before. It’s a good idea to get a medical check, especially if you’re older. Happily, many women who are struggling the second time around do go on to get pregnant naturally. But for those of you that are older, with more severe time constraints to consider, a good piece of advice is to set yourself a limit for trying naturally before you seek out professional help and assistance.
Zita West is the founder of the Zita West Fertility Clinic which specialises in a holistic approach to IVF. Instagram: @zitawestpregnancy
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PARENTING
TAKING
Time off FOR SOME IT’S A BREEZE, BUT FOR MOST OF US IT’S A CHALLENGE. Georgina Blaskey SHOWS HOW TO COPE WHEN YOU LE AVE YOUR BABY FOR THE FIRST TIME eaving your baby for the first time overnight is a huge step that can feel like an insurmountable leap for many mums. The first time I left my sevenmonth-old daughter, I was the one crying like a baby as she waved me off from her grandmother’s loving arms (giggling, I might add). The emotional lead up and the encroaching fear in the days before I finally turned back and walked away from her were surprisingly hard. I left endless instructions, minute-by-minute accounts of what she’d need when, and descriptions of her different cries and what they signalled. Needless to say, I needn’t have worried. Twenty-four hours later, we were reunited and she was fine. There may be many reasons why and when you need to leave your baby for the first time. It could be a friend’s wedding, a work trip, a romantic weekend away with your partner – or even a night away for you. Don’t give yourself a hard time if you’re simply desperate for a break and looking forward to a swift departure – it’s absolutely OK to want time out from being a mum – but whether you’re dreaming of enjoying cocktail hour instead of bathtime, or looking forward to the long lie-in the next day, you might be surprised come crunch time how contrary you may feel. For some of us, this feeling can become so strong, we simply can’t walk out the door. One of the ways you can ease the situation is to create an environment for your baby that is easily transferable. By having familiar sensory things that you can pack up in to a bag at a moment’s notice, even in an emergency, you can rest assured that your baby will feel calm when separated from you. “Everything feels different when mum is not there,” explains Angela Spencer, baby wellbeing expert and founder of Babyopathy. “This is can be difficult and stressful both for the
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baby and the person looking after her.” Babies live in a highly sensory world, so if you build up a sensory environment around your baby, she will feel calm when you’re not there. “The music you play when they fall asleep, the oils that you use, the feel of the blanket, the shape of the dummy and the flow of the teat on the bottle – these are all familiar things that will help when you have to leave your baby overnight.” If you’re caught out in an emergency, having these sensory props will help your baby to settle, and in turn help the person whose looking after her. Babies can sense stress so the more relaxed everyone feels, the better. If you know you’re going away, you can take time to build up this sensory side so when it’s time to go, it’s comforting and familiar for your baby. This also applies if you’re going back to work; separation anxiety peaks at seven to nine months, just when many mums maternity leave is finishing. Using the last few weeks to introduce your baby to nursery or their nanny, and to start creating a familiar, portable environment, is a positive step. It’s also an opportunity to teach your baby that, when you go, you always come back. But what about you? For mothers, it can be a daunting prospect, but one that’s an important step for both of you. Make sure you trust the person looking after your baby implicitly and that they’ll listen to your instructions so you can relax knowing they’re honouring your routines and timings. Give them time to get to know your baby by arriving early before you leave. When it’s time to go, go quickly so you don’t betray your nerves – your baby can pick up on your emotions. Agree times when you’ll check in and receive updates, so you aren’t checking your phone all the time. Finally, enjoy your break! You’ll arrive home refreshed and may even feel like you’re a better mum for having had some time out.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
IT’S ABSOLUTELY OK IF YOU WANT A BREAK FROM BEING A MUM
PARENTING
TOP TIPS FOR WORRIED MUMS
Handing your baby over to someone you trust will make it easier for you to leave her
Leaving your baby can be an emotional rollercoaster. Motherkind’s Zoe Blaskey has these survival skills: • Accept that you might feel anxious – if you have a healthy bond with your child, it means you’re probably going to feel anxious leaving them for the first time he key is not to ush the anxiety away or ignore it – it will just get bigger – but to accept it as a sign of a healthy relationshi ith your child • Thoughts are not real – as you drive away from the house you might start thinking about everything that could go wrong. This is normal, but these thoughts aren’t real – they’re just thoughts. Practise not ‘hooking’ into these thoughts by using a simple mindfulness technique such as looking up at the sky and then down at your feet to bring you back to the present moment. • Use a phrase to repeat to yourself to keep calm – when you feel the anxiety rising, say this hrase or affirmation in your mind to come into the resent ne of my favourites is ll is ell • Connect with your intention of being away from your baby – writing a short list of the benefits of this time away for yourself (and maybe your partner) will help you focus on the positives. Remember, what we focus on gets bigger, so try to consciously put more of your energy on the positives, than the anxiety and worry. • Agree on a contact strategy anxiety ourishes in the unknown, so the more you can lan u front, the better t can be useful to agree to a contact plan with the trusted caregiver – whether they are going to call and hen, and vice versa hen you won’t spend your whole time away staring at your phone aiting for a call or u date
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BREASTFEEDING
The Breastfeeding Café with
PROFESSOR AMY BROWN
THIS ISSUE WE ASK:
Y
I’M DUE NEXT MONTH AND PLANNING TO BREASTFEED. WHAT WILL THE FIRST FEED BE LIKE?
ou’ve waited many months to have your baby and now they are here. What will that first feed look like? If your baby is on your chest, having skin to skin, you might find that they start searching around, looking for a nipple. Your baby is programmed to find it, and their sense of smell sets them in the right direction. Some women choose to let their baby find the nipple themselves – yes, even tiny babies can manoeuvre their way there (known as the ‘breast crawl’). You might prefer to give your baby a bit of help on the first go, especially if they are a little sleepy after birth. Latching your baby on might not look like you expect it to. Lots of people think babies latch like you would drink through a straw but they actually need to take a big mouthful of your nipple and surrounding darker skin (the areola). During the feed, they draw your nipple right back in their mouth and massage the underside of your areola with their tongue. Milk goes to the back of their mouth rather than the front, so you’re aiming for your nipple to point sort of up and back into the baby’s mouth. This is not as painful as it sounds – your nipples were designed to do this! Getting a good latch is probably the number one priority for breastfeeding. A lot of problems can be avoided if your latch is
right. Ask your midwife to show you and check it is comfortable and effective. Sometimes just the smallest change in how you hold your baby can make a big difference. If you are having any pain or difficulty at all, ask again. It can be easier to think about how to hold your baby and latch them on if you watch a video. Dr Jack Newman has some great videos on the Breastfeeding Support website (breastfeeding.support). There are lots of different positions you can hold your baby in. The laidback breastfeeding position can be very helpful. In this position, you recline comfortably in a chair and place your baby on top of you, lying with their head near your breast. Again, pictures can help. Try looking up La Leche League (laleche.org.uk); it has some good detailed information on latch and positioning. Make sure you are comfy. Try not to hunch up – bring your baby to you rather than leaning awkwardly over your baby, making sure your back is supported. Some women find using cushions comfortable, but make sure they are not positioning your baby in an awkward way as that could affect how well they latch on. Professor Amy Brown is the author of The Positive Breastfeeding Book (£14.99, Pinter & Martin Ltd), which is available now
FEEDING TIPS FOR THOSE EARLY DAYS
• If you have a favourite place to feed, set up a ‘feeding station’ so you have everything to hand. A water bottle, snacks, book and blanket can make all the difference in a long feed. • Babies can feed lots – often at least eight to 12 times a day. Babies often ‘cluster feed’ where they feed on and off over a short period of time, often in the evening. Feeding often helps signal to your body to make more milk and feeding your baby responsively whenever they ask is therefore a key part of building a good milk supply. • To make sure your baby is getting enough milk, you can look for signs they are taking in milk. Can you hear your baby swallow and see their jaw moving as they suck? Do they look hydrated with firm skin? Nappies are also a great sign. By the end of the first week, a baby should be having at least six wet and two dirty nappies a day.
Gaia feeding chair £399, huggle.co.uk
Bamboo nursing bras (pack of two) £35, seraphine.com
Cam Cam Copenhagen nursing pillow £49.95, scandiborn.co.uk
Stainless steel water bottle £19.95, kleankanteen.co.uk
Merino wool shawl £45, ghhurt.com
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HEALTH
TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT
THE ZIKA VIRUS
The sisters discuss the dangers of the mosquito-based infection during pregnancy ive years ago, few people were familiar with the word Zika. Spread by daytime-active mosquitoes, its name comes from the forest in Uganda where it was first identified in the 1940s. For decades it was confined to a narrow area along the equator in Africa and Asia, and appeared to pose no serious risk. But a few years ago, it started spreading into the Americas and as more people became infected, it emerged that there was a correlation with Zika and brain defects in the unborn children of those who had been infected. The danger is not so much for the person affected – symptoms are mostly mild. The real risk is in pregnancy; we now know Zika can spread from a woman to her baby resulting in birth defects, most commonly a condition called microcephaly. As a result, in 2016, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued travel notices warning pregnant women, or those trying to conceive, that visiting Zika areas would put their unborn child at risk.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
What if I’ve already been to a Zika area while pregnant? Your GP will recommend that you be tested. This will either be a blood or urine test. If you test positive for Zika, obstetricians will keep a close eye on the development of your baby. What is microcephaly? Babies born with microcephaly have smaller heads because the brain hasn’t developed normally in pregnancy. While they generally survive birth, these children frequently have intellectual disability, poor motor
function and speech, abnormal facial features and seizures. There is no treatment, and usually babies with the condition have a reduced life expectancy.
Zika stays for longer in sperm, men need to wait for six months. So if you have both travelled, you both need to wait for six months unless you get tested and have a negative result.
What if I’ve booked a holiday and can’t get my money back? Don’t go – it’s just not worth it.
If I have Zika and am pregnant, what are the chances that our baby will have a brain defect? Neonatal outcomes take years to determine, so there is no accurate data on this yet. That said, the risk of Zika to unborn children is significant, so always follow the advice from the CDC.
What if my partner has visited a Zika area while I’m pregnant? He needs to be tested. Because Zika can be passed on through sex, you should not have sex without using condoms before the results are back. We’re trying to conceive but have just visited a Zika area, what should we do? The advice is for women to wait eight weeks before trying. However, because
Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are the founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South West London. Their podcast, The Parent Hood, is free to download on iTunes and Acast. Visit thebumpclass.com
Where do we need to avoid? Check the cdc.gov website before you travel. There have been travel notices issued in parts of Central Africa, Central America, South America, the Caribbean and some Pacific Islands.
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RELATIONSHIPS
Bedroom Battles Zoey Goto SPE AKS TO SOME OF THE LE ADING EXPERTS IN WOMEN’S POSTNATAL HE ALTH, TO GET THE SCOOP ON KEEPING INTIMACY IN YOUR POST-BABY REL ATIONSHIP
ustaining your sex life after having a baby is challenging for most couples. The physical, emotional and hormonal changes, coupled with the sheer exhaustion, can often result in a libido dip. However, with a healthy dose of patience and perseverance, as well as seeking out specialist help where needed, it is possible to rebuild your sex life into something stronger than ever in the long-term.
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EXPERIENCING AN IDENTITY CRISIS IS COMMON FOR MANY NEW MOTHERS. ONCE THE DUST HAS SETTLED POST-BIRTH, DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE ON RECLAIMING YOUR SEXUAL IDENTITY? I actually think it’s less about reclaiming one’s sexual identity and instead more about creating a new one. Becoming a mother is such a profound experience, but this change can actually be an opportunity. Part of reclaiming, or creating, that identity needs to be about advocating for our desires – and no one can do that for our sex lives but us. These desires don’t necessarily have to an erotic porn plot line, they can also be the desires of non-penetrative physical intimacy (yay, bonding!) or even just communicating directly about sex with your partner – something we shouldn’t assume every woman did before having the baby. Sex isn’t just about our bodies, and in most cases, our ‘erotic imaginations’ are the strongest drivers of our sexuality, so start thinking about sex more, fantasise on your own terms, fantasise with your partner and remember, not all fantasies need to be acted on, which doesn’t make them any less satisfying. Sarah Forbes Curator, sexual culturalist and author of the upcoming book, Mama Sex
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YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT HOW YOUR LOVE LIFE HAS TRANSFORMED FROM PAINFUL POSTPARTUM EXPERIENCES, TO NOW HAVING THE BEST SEX OF YOUR RELATIONSHIP. WHAT HELPED YOU GET YOUR POSTNATAL MOJO BACK? It was a mixture of mental and physical. My life-saving moment was meeting Amanda Savage, a women’s health physio who helped me to find the right strength in my pelvic floor, release muscles in the rest of my body, and deal with my vaginal scar tissue. Mentally, it was really hard to reconcile motherhood and my sexual identity, as well as get over a traumatic birth and postnatal depression. And, practically, I didn’t feel sexy when fatigued beyond belief, alert to baby cries and at risk of milk squirting out of my ‘don’t touch!’ breasts. Not an ideal combination! Talking it through, both with my therapist and having an open dialogue with my husband, was at the heart of clearing those mental blockages. The tiredness recedes and you learn to live with your new normal. But I wouldn’t have got there if I hadn’t asked for help. My message is that you can have a happy ending, pun-intended! Clio Wood Founder of family wellbeing company, &Breathe Postnatal
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU WISH YOU’D BEEN GIVEN BEFORE YOU HAD CHILDREN? While pregnant, or preferably prior to getting pregnant, use a mirror to explore your private parts and find what is normal to you. It will help you to identify if something is out of tune after the birth. If you had a tear or episiotomy, learn to massage the scar tissue to make it more flexible and desensitise it. See a women’s health physiotherapist for this and to learn to use your pelvic muscles correctly – relaxing the muscle is as important as contracting it. Anya Smirnova Founder of Modern Postnatal Recovery
RUNNING HEAD
Touching and talking with your partner will help get your sex life back on track post-baby
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
HOW MIGHT LUBRICANTS AND VAGINA MOISTURISERS HELP WITH POSTPARTUM SEX? Vaginal dryness after childbirth is very common, especially when breastfeeding, due to the absence of ovulation and drop in oestrogen levels. There should be no shame attached to using a water-based lubricant to alleviate dryness and remove the fear of pain, but it’s essential to choose a natural pH balanced lubricant, free from glycerine, perfume and chemically based ingredients, which can cause irritation. Lavinia Winch Ambassador for YES Organic Intimacy products
WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE ON KEEPING CONNECTED WITH YOUR PARTNER? Find ways of gleaning connection-rich moments from small amounts of time. If your baby is happy in the pram or sling, go for a walk together so that you can talk without interruption. Look at one another when you talk to each other. If you’re both too exhausted to chat in the evening, sit or lie next to one another so that you are in physical contact. Physical connection is just as powerful as verbal communication. Dr Alexandra Kasozi Counselling psychologist
IF SOMEONE HAS EXPERIENCED DISCOMFORT DURING SEX, WHAT WOULD YOU ADVISE? For many women, sex after a having a baby can be uncomfortable, so listen and respect your body, as it may just need time to heal. Communicate this honestly with your partner and if the pain doesn’t subside, then seek advice from a pelvic physio and your GP. Maria Elliott Founder of The Mummy MOT
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SHOPPING
THE REVIEW Laura Mason MAKES A SPL ASH AS SHE ROUNDS UP THE BEST BABY BATHS
Best for
NEWBORNS
Best for
TEMPERATURE
Best for
SUPPORT
Best for
SPACE SAVER
Best for
LARGER BATH
SKIP HOP
Moby Smart lin ta e Bath Tub The mesh sling insert within this bath provides three positions to support babies as they become stronger. Once they can sit upright, the sling is removed and the bath can be used as standard. The cute whale design and vibrant colour helps make bathtime more exciting. £40, johnlewis.co.uk
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STOKKE
AQUA SCALE
BÉABA
SHNUGGLE
This ingenious lightweight bath folds completely flat, making it a great product for popping away for use in smaller bathrooms or taking on your travels. The new XL version of the Flexi Bath means it’s large enough to bath children up to the age of six years, or a practical option to bathe siblings together. £47, stokke.com
A key feature of this tub is a handy built-in thermometer that displays the temperature on a clear LCD display, so parents can easily get to the 37-38 degree recommended water temperature. It can also be used to weigh your baby, with or without water, so you can keep an easy check of their vital statistics at the same time. £69.99, amazon.co.uk
For bigger babies that love to play in the bath, this tub is nice and wide, allowing plenty of space to make bathtime fun with lots of toys. A hard structure with non-slip texture, it also features a side showerhead support, making it easy to fill and very handy for showering off those soapsuds. £35, amazon.co.uk
A compact tub providing support to the smallest of babies from birth. The practical bum bump gives baby a secure sitting position, so there is less chance of them sliding forward. The environmentally friendly design allows for the water to stay warmer for longer, and a good depth means there’s no need to overfill. £24.95, shnuggle.com
Flexi Bath X-Large
Baby Bath
Camele’o Baby Bath
Baby Bath
SHOPPING
Stokke’s Flexi Bath is roomy enough so your baby can splash and play during bathtime
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FOOD
PROMOTION
WIN!
A MONTH’S WORTH OF PICCOLO BABY FOOD!
You’d like to always purée your own organic fruit and veg, but some days time just runs away with you. Piccolo is here for those days, with its 100 per cent organic range of baby food and snacks made from all natural ingredients with no added sugar or salt. We’ve teamed up with Piccolo to give away a month’s worth of baby food, including 30 pouches and complete meals for baby aged seven months and over. Good luck! mylittlepiccolo.com
STOKKE® SUPPER CLUB
FOOD FINDINGS
S
candinavian nursery brand Stokke’s recent survey found that just half of British families typically enjoy a family meal at the dinner table, and one in 10 parents admit to letting children under 14 eat alone in their rooms. In light of this, Charlotte Stirling-Reed, Stokke’s specialist in baby and children nutrition, shares her expert tips on how to enjoy a healthy and happy mealtime:
EAT TOGETHER, WHENEVER POSSIBLE Make the most of family time and try to sit together to eat even if it’s just you and your baby. Bring baby into the mealtime and right up to the table as early as possible; children learn the skills of eating, social skills and what foods they enjoy by first copying others.
ESTABLISH A ROUTINE
Having a routine around when meals are served can help get little ones ready for food, especially for infants, who tend to like set routines. Establishing a ‘pre-eating’ routine can also help to get children involved, too.
THE STOKKE RESEARCH SURVEYED 2,006 PARENTS OF CHILDREN AGED 14 OR YOUNGER
TRY TO MAKE IT DISTRACTION FREE
Toys, TV or phones can take away from the concept of food and meals being important. They also distract from what can be a really vital social occasion for a family, too.
LEAVE OUT THE RULES
Stick to rules that you think are necessary and avoid too much pressure for children to ‘eat up’ a specific part, or all of their meal. Keep mealtimes light and enjoyable.
TRY SHARING PLATTERS
I love the Mediterranean style of sharing platters, allowing everyone to help themselves to whatever parts of the meal they want. One of the main reasons I see children going off food is boredom, so offering a variety exposes different tastes, flavours and nutrients.
MAKE IT FUN
Just try to relax, stay calm and make those mealtimes enjoyable for everyone.
To enter visit: baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions
food
NEWS
THE L ATEST AND GRE ATEST TRE ATS FOR BABIES, CHILDREN AND PARENTS
Whipping up healthy dishes for baby is rarely a doddle, so why not spare yourself the trouble ith ittle ummy he s first-ever cold- ressed baby food brand offers arents delicious recipes packed with nutritional goodness, including brain food filled ith chick ea, cauli o er and kale he best art ittle ummy is no available on eliveroo, so can be delivered to your door littletummy.co
GOOD NEWS FOR LITTLE ONES WHO LOVE TO DIP; KIDDYLICIOUS HAS A NEW HOUMOUS DIP-DIP, COMPLETE WITH MINI BREADSTICKS THAT ARE IDEAL FOR ON-THE-GO DUNKING. GREAT FOR TOTS FROM 12 MONTHS OLD, THERE’S ALSO A DELICIOUS ROASTED RED PEPPER FLAVOUR. KIDDYLICIOUS.COM
baby-magazine.co.uk | 101
FOOD
BE ETROOT HOUMOUS W I T H PA R M E S A N T OA S T Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes Not suitable for freezing Suitable from 10 months Serves 4
This tasty dip works as a purée or as a finger-food favourite. Make sure you buy the vacuum-packed beetroot that is not pickled in vinegar, or, if you don’t mind a few extra steps, you can prep your own from raw. INGREDIENTS
• 250g vacuum-packed cooked beetroot • 400g tinned chickpeas, drained • 2 garlic cloves • A handful fresh parsley • 1 tbsp lemon juice • 90ml tahini • A pinch of salt (optional) • 1 tsp cumin powder • 50ml extra virgin olive oil • A handful sesame seeds, black and white PARMESAN TOAST (OPTIONAL)
• 4 slices of bread • Parmesan, grated METHOD
Place all the ingredients, including the juice in the beetroot packet, except the sesame seeds in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth. If it is too thick, add more olive oil. Add more lemon juice according to taste. Preheat the grill to medium. Roll the bread thinly with a rolling pin and cut into shapes. Sprinkle over some grated Parmesan and put under the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Home
comforts
INFANT NUTRITIONIST Alice Fotheringham BRINGS SOME OF HER FAVOURITE FAMILY-FRIENDLY DISHES TO THE TABLE 102 | baby-magazine.co.uk
FOOD C R E S C E N T M O O N C H O C O L AT E B I S C O T T I Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 30 minutes Suitable for freezing Suitable from 12 months Makes about 24 biscotti
These fun, Italian-inspired biscuits are perfect for when guests pop round. INGREDIENTS
• 250g plain flour • 2 tbsp cocoa powder • ½ tsp baking powder • ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • A pinch of salt • 200g whole almonds, finely chopped • 130g caster sugar • 2 eggs • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp water or plant milk • 200g milk chocolate chips TO DECORATE
• 200g dark chocolate, melted METHOD For a fun Halloweeninspired treat, cut the bread into bat and ghost shapes
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and salt. Add finely chopped almonds and mix.
In a food processor, add the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract and water or plant milk and mix for 1-2 minutes until light in colour. Add the dry ingredients to the egg mix and blend together until just combined to make a dough. By hand, mix in the chocolate chips into the dough. Remove the dough. If you have time, wrap in clingfilm and put in the fridge for 30 minutes. Divide the dough into 4 pieces and form into fat sausages. Place on the lined baking sheets and bake the shapes for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and when cool enough to handle, gently cut the loaves into ½in slices (a serrated bread knife works best for this). Gently add an indent into the middle of each sausage to make a crescent shape. Return to the baking sheet, fitting as many crescents on as you can; you may need to do this in batches. Bake the biscotti for another 4-6 minutes on each side, less if you like the biscotti softer. Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave or in a bowl over simmering water. Once melted, drizzle over the biscotti.
baby-magazine.co.uk | 103
FOOD
These veggie pancakes will be a monster hit with your little ones
S P I N AC H & B R O C C O L I M O N S T E R PA N C A K E S Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 15 minutes Suitable for freezing Suitable from 6 months Makes 8 pancakes
Apart from the colour, you would have no idea these pancakes contain veggies! A great way to sneak some goodness into a meal.
• 200ml full-fat milk or plant milk • 1 tbsp sunflower oil, plus extra for frying • A pinch of nutmeg TO DECORATE
Sweet: Blueberry and banana slices for eyes Savoury: Blobs of yoghurt with chopped olives for eyes METHOD
INGREDIENTS
• 100g spinach • 50g broccoli florets, cut into tiny pieces • 125g wholemeal or spelt flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 egg
Wash the spinach, then heat in a pan with a splash of water with the broccoli until wilted and cooked through. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool. Squeeze any excess liquid from the cooked vegetables and add to the blender and
pulse until broken down. Add the remaining ingredients and blend on high speed until well combined. Heat a little oil in a frying pan over a medium heat and pour spoonful’s of the batter into the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side before turning over with a spatula and cooking the other side. Keep warm in a low oven until you’re ready to serve them. These pancakes can be kept in the fridge for a couple of days once cool, or freeze with a sheet of greaseproof paper in between each one to stop them sticking together. Decorate with cut fruit and vegetables to make into monsters.
Alice Fotheringham is co-founder and infant nutritional therapist at Piccolo baby food. Piccolo make a range of 100 per cent organic baby meals, snacks and cooking ingredients to inspire your family to start a lifetime of food adventures. 10% of Piccolo’s profits go to charities that support local families. Visit mylittlepiccolo.com or follow Piccolo on Instagram @mylittlepiccolo
104 | baby-magazine.co.uk
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IN THE CHRISTMAS ISSUE OF
We reveal the winners of the Baby Awards 2019 The ultimate Christmas gifts for the whole family Keeping an eye... we take a look at the best baby monitors on the market Actor Tom Hardy on the role of fatherhood Celebrating baby’s first Christmas? When and where to find Santa for this special occasion
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STOCKISTS Amy & Ivor
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Christina Rohde
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Foque
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Gucci
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PHOTOGRAPHY: LOL JOHNSON
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Imogen wears jumper, £14, River Island. Skirt, £38, Christina Rohde at Alex and Alexa. Headband, £12, Meri Meri.
TRAVEL
travel
THIS MONTH W E VI S IT…
University Arms, Cambridge MAXINE BRIGGS checks out the city’s hotel hotspot
C
ambridge University and the city is fully celebrated at the recently refurbished University Arms right in the heart of Cambridge. The design team, led by man of the moment Martin Brudnizki, has done a splendid job with this 192-room hotel, mixing history and heritage with contemporary comfort, but with a dollop of fun. There’s an audio of Alan Bennett reciting Wind in the Willows in the downstairs loos, glamorous stirrup chandeliers (Newmarket is down the road), the front-of-house staff wear uniforms based on Winston Churchill’s siren suit and all the suites are named after illustrious alumni. We stayed in the Hawking suite, beautifully furnished with a huge bathroom, a bespoke library and large bay windows overlooking Parker’s Piece, the green where football was invented. The hotel provides old-fashioned bicycles if you fancy a ride around the town and even has its own punt with chauffeur, which we luckily enjoyed on a sunny day. There’s even a Pimm’s punt on the river serving drinks. For dining, the in-house restaurant, Parker’s Tavern, is inspired by the communal dining halls of the University Colleges, with Cambridge blue walls covered in quirky boat race images. The chef, Tristan Welch, has created bold and comforting food, with some favourites such as the two-day slow-cooked ‘Spag Bol’. There are nice historical touches to the menu, too, with Welch delving into the archives and reinventing local dishes such as the Duke of Cambridge Tart. If you happen to visit with little guests, too, then there’s a nice kids’ menu, which has been designed by Tristan’s sons. For dessert, there’s an ice-cream menu where you can tick all the extra toppings and sauces, as many as you like, resulting in enormous sundaes – oh to be a kid again! Rates from £143 per room, per night. Suites start from £419. universityarms.com
NEWS
WHEREVER YOUR DESTINATION, TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW
ISLAND ESCAPE
If the winter chill has had you pining for your next summer getaway, The Greek Villas has recently unveiled a new collection of properties perfectly suited for families. There’s 400 five-star hideaways across 26 islands to choose from, including a sevenbedroom pine-tree-lined retreat in Paxos, a six-bed beachside residence in Corfu, and new for 2019, a striking Milos villa with gardens and a pool. thegreekvillas.com
CHILD’S PLAY
You’ll have hours to while away by the pool with a good book at Es Saadi Marrakech Resort – why? The hotel has a new and improved Kids’ Club, where little ones are kept entertained with cookery lessons, art workshops, jewellery-making and more. For tots who need to burn off a little steam, there’s gymnastics, tennis lessons, plus an Olympic Games competition. Need a night off? There’s even a babysitting service for smaller ones should you need it! essaadi.com
CHEF NATASHA CORRETT HAS LAUNCHED A SERVICE TO HELP HOTELS PROVIDE HEALTHIER MEALS FOR CHILDREN. RESTAURANTS WHO SIGN UP WILL BE OFFERED TUTORIALS AND A MENU OF THREE RECIPES, WHICH CAN BE INTERCHANGED INTO OVER 100 DISHES. HOTELS.MUMKNOWSBEST.COM
baby-magazine.co.uk | 107
RUNNING HEAD
POSTCARD FROM
Tasting Asian food was a new adventure
SINGAPORE Laura Mason ENJOYS A FAMILY BRE AK IN THE COSMOPOLITAN CIT Y
redictably, the first question my friends asked when I told them I’d booked to go to Singapore was: “Are you taking the kids?” My answer was always “Yes!” Keen for Marley, two, Noah, six and Grace, seven, to explore new cultures, this stop was long overdue. The Asian hub of Singapore is often overlooked as a stop-off for far-flung shores, yet it’s a fantastic family-friendly destination that has no language barriers and is jam-packed with fun and interesting attractions. In the heart of city is the Fullerton Hotel. Steeped in history with its grand neoclassical architecture, the iconic hotel was once a government building before it became known as Singapore’s General Post Office. Popular with families, our welcome came in the form of two oversized teddy bears that serve as the hotel’s mascots, Lizzy and Robby. The kids’ excitement continued at check-in with activity books and ice cream galore, while I kept my focus to remember to enquire about the spa. Our beautiful room overlooked the outdoor pool and Singapore River, and needless to say was perfect in every way. The convenience of baby baths, children’s toiletries and newborn essentials meant we hadn’t needed to take everything halfway round the world. Following a 12-hour flight and desperate to avoid any jet lag, a walk to the surrounding neighbourhoods gave the first glimpse of the melting pot of
P
The hotel’s pool provided welcome respite from the heat
Kids will loce the culturally enriching experience
108 | baby-magazine.co.uk
cultures that this fabulous city beholds. We returned just in time to catch the twice-nightly light show at Marina Bay Sands from the hotel’s chic rooftop bar. Five days barely seemed enough to take in all the museums, parks and amusements. The Town Restaurant set us up for our daily adventures with western and Asian dishes, providing Marley with lots of opportunity to sample new foods, such as kaya toast and bao buns, while indulging in her first love – pancakes. On our first day, we visited Sentosa Island to get our kicks at Universal Studios theme park. One day was not enough, so we returned the following day to visit Skyline Luge and Adventure Cove Waterpark, which has a great splash pad and water maze for little ones to cool off in the heat. Another highlight was Singapore Zoo and adjoining Night Safari, a unique animal interaction experience with educational talks and a tram ride by moonlight that had Marley in awe. Five days flew by, and if I were to do it all again, we’d stay for longer. On the flight home, I overheard my three intrepid travellers conjuring up a ‘plan’ to move to Singapore, so I hope we will return one day. The zest for travel that has grown in my children has made our friends more curious and they are now asking very different questions! A Premier Courtyard room for two adults and two children costs from £297 per night. fullertonhotels.com
Rooms overlook the Singapore River
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110 | baby-magazine.co.uk
UPDATES
SHARING IS CARING
Considering taking up shared parental leave (SPL)? According to researchers at University of Birmingham, the number of couples doing so has increased by 73 per cent since 2015, as more people become aware of the policy. SPL not only helps to improve gender equality in the workplace, but it is also proven to impact paternal welfare and mental health, as parents benefit from more time with their kids. Find out more via the university’s Equal Parenting Project at birmingham.ac.uk
nursery
NEWS
HERE YOU’LL FIND THE L ATEST E ARLY YE ARS UPDATES
Introduce your tot to the magic of magnets with My First Totem from SmartMax, a set of colourful building blocks that encourage logical thinking and imaginative play. Ideal for children from 18 months to five years, these extra-large blocks also benefit from a variety of sounds, styles and textures, which help to devlop baby’s sensory skills as they design their own crazy combinations. £17.99, amazon.co.uk
A FRESH START
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
The start of the school year was an exciting one for New Hall in Essex, as its purpose-built nursery building was unveiled. The addition to the area means the school will be offering wraparound care for children aged one to four from 8am to 6pm, with extended day care from 7.30am to 6.30pm. The nursery also has an outdoor area, where children can interact with the natural world in Forest School. newhallschool.co.uk
WIN!
A 10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD Can you believe Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ classic tale, What the Ladybird Heard, is 10 years old? To celebrate, we’re giving away 10 copies of the 10th anniversary edition; head online to enter. baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions
A SURVEY BY BUSY BEES NURSERIES FOUND 78 PER CENT OF TEACHERS BELIEVE THAT EXCESSIVE SCREEN TIME IN A CHILD’S EARLY YEARS CAN IMPACT HOW READY THEY ARE FOR NURSERY AND SCHOOL; AND THAT A FIFTH OF PARENTS WITH SCHOOLSTARTERS THIS YEAR WERE UNSURE HOW TO PREPARE THEIR CHILD FOR THE TRANSITION. BUSYBEESCHILDCARE.CO.UK
baby-magazine.co.uk | 111
Boutiques NATURAL BABY SHOWER, SURREY
When her son Dylan was born, Victoria Hampson noticed a lack of ethical baby products on the market and was inspired to set up Natural Baby Shower. Nowadays, her established store offers high quality, natural and meticulously-researched parenting products, from baby carriers to buggies and skincare solutions to sleep suits. Much of the product range is from small, family-run businesses, and all items are offered at the best prices. WINDLEBROOK HOUSE, 55 GUILDFORD ROAD, BAGSHOT GU19 5NG naturalbabyshower.co.uk
THE LITTLE NATURAL CO, EAST SUSSEX
As the name would have it, The Little Natural Co specialises in organic, natural and handmade products for both baby and child. With an emphasis on ethical and sustainable production, its beautiful pieces are both trend led and environmentally friendly, from clothing and toys to skincare and accessories. They stock some of our favourite brands, including Olli Ella, Mabli, Wee Gallery and Sleepy Doe. 147 HIGH STREET, LEWES BN7 1XT thelittlenaturalco.co.uk
BIRDKIDS, CORNWALL
Nestled in the seaside village of Fowey in Cornwall, Birdkids is, as the name suggests, inspired by the wonders of nature. Founded by Jane Bird over a decade ago, here you can shop from an ever-evolving selection of clothes, toys and gifts for children. Browse its eclectic mix of products and you’ll find animals, butterflies, bugs, birds and flowers just about everywhere. We especially love the sweet animal towels from Liewood and the aquatic soft toys from Wild Republic. 3 CUSTOM HOUSE HILL, FOWEY PL23 1AB birdkids.co.uk
BODEN, LONDON
Since its launch in 1991, Boden has paved the way for timeless womenswear, menswear and childrenswear with a twist. The kids’ lines, Mini Boden and Baby Boden, are inspired by the best parts of childhood, with storytelling prints and appliqué. The King’s Road flagship store has a whole floor dedicated to childrenswear; check out the latest collection which is inspired by classic British style, complete with embroidered London buses, smocking and even machine-washable cashmere. STORES ACROSS LONDON boden.co.uk
MILK & HONEY, NORTH YORKSHIRE
Situated in the spa town of Harrogate, Milk & Honey stocks a range of clothes, accessories and toys for all ages. There’s more than 40 renowned labels to browse, from sweet baby clothing to fashion-conscious pieces for your teen, and their friendly team is always happy to make your experience as pleasurable and stress-free as possible. They’ll even gift-wrap your purchase should you request it. Brands include Ralph Lauren, Levi’s and Pepe Jeans. 14-16 CHELTENHAM PARADE, HARROGATE, NORTH YORKSHIRE HG1 1DB milkandhoneykids.co.uk
THE LITTLE WHITE COMPANY
The Little White Company’s immaculate stores are a favourite with stylish mamas looking for luxury clothes, bedding and toys that are still practical and affordable. From gorgeous cashmere sweaters to the cutest ballet slippers and pure cotton sleepwear, everything at The Little White Company maintains the simple, elegant aesthetic of the adult collection, but with a touch of childhood magic thrown in, too. STORES ACROSS THE UK thewhitecompany.com
112 | baby-magazine.co.uk
Boutiques PEPA & CO, LONDON
Pepa & Co’s clothing collections for both boys and girls from newborn up to eight years old capture the best of British and Spanish heritage design. Founded only five years ago, the brand’s loved by the royal family, with Prince George and Princess Charlotte seen in a number of styles, including the page boy and bridesmaid outfits for their aunt Pippa’s wedding in 2017. The brand opened its first boutique on Belgravia’s Elizabeth Street. 40 ELIZABETH STREET, BELGRAVIA, LONDON SW1W 9NZ pepaandcompany.com
TREEHOUSE, SCOTLAND
Run by sisters Kim and Sophie, Treehouse is your one-stop shop for kids, set on the banks of the Water of Leith in Edinburgh. As well as a selection of clothes and gifts, there’s a particular focus on children’s shoes, with knowledgeable staff available to help you find the perfect pair for your little one. They offer a hairdressing service, too; from first haircuts to regular trims, the team will transform the experience into a fun activity with car chairs and DVDs. 10-12 HAMILTON PLACE, EDINBURGH EH3 5AU treehousechildrenswear.co.uk
SISTERS GUILD, SOMERSET
As the name suggests, Sisters Guild is run by siblings Carla and Bekka in the picturesque town of Frome. Set on a pretty, cobbled hill, the shop truly is a treat for the eyes, with a plethora of beautiful design-led products available to purchase, from kids’ clothing to bits for mum, décor and nursery furniture. Brands stocked include well-known names such as Meri Meri and Oeuf NYC, as well as newer labels like Sleepy Doe. 32 CATHERINE HILL, FROME BA11 1BY sistersguild.co.uk
LA COQUETA, LONDON
Folk Interiors founder Katy believes everything you own should spark joy. With an interest in Scandinavian design the brand showcases the best in interiors, for little ones and adults, and every ethically sourced piece had been lovingly curated for beauty and functionality. From homewares, stationery gifts and toys Katy’s brand is on a mission to help you create a beautiful home. folkinteriors.co.uk
LUCY & BELLE
After being inspired to set up her own online boutique after the arrival of her twin daughters, Clara Bentata founded Lucy & Belle as a shopping destination for discerning parents. The site prides itself on delivering the best customer experience with an extensive selection of products, from baby clothing and changing bags, to outdoor pieces and accessories. Top brands include Pasito a Pasito, Cam Cam Copenhagen and Babidu. lucyandbelle.com
ONLINE
FOLK INTERIORS
ONLINE
Inspired by the childhood of founder and mother-of-five Celia Munoz, La Coqueta’s collection faultlessly channels a sweeter, more old-fashioned aspect of the Spanish aesthetic. 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 – and everything, from the fabrics to the methods of production, has been created to support Spanish design and craftsmanship. STORES ACROSS LONDON lacoquetakids.com
baby-magazine.co.uk | 113
BUSINESS The inspiration for Gudrun’s safe and gentle baby skincare range was her son, Lucas
Tell us a bit about the brand. My inspiration came with the birth of my son, Lucas. Having been passionate about skincare from a young age, my standards for my own son’s skin were high. However, I couldn’t find a range that ticked all my boxes: organic, safe, gentle and effective, while designed to care for newborn and sensitive, irritation-prone skin. I also wanted reassurance that nothing harmful was included and that our planet had been respected. With that, in 2014, my dream was born: Britain’s first luxury, organic-certified baby skincare range. From there, I progressed to creating products for mothers that would be safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but delivering visible results. What are the brand’s values? Uncompromising quality, efficacy and safety for both mother and baby, while considering the planet we live on. We work with the most carefully selected ingredients and blend them to ultra-safe, highly effective formulas. Our
114 | baby-magazine.co.uk
INSPIRE GUDRUN WURM
The founder of organic skincare brand Little Butterfly London talks motherhood, business and meditation philosophy has always been to aim for the highest quality using precious ingredients. Our entire range is certified organic by Ecocert, plus Vegetarian Society Approved, and has been dermatologist-tested and approved for newborn, reactive and eczema-prone skin. Describe a typical day for you. I set my alarm for 5:30am, which is painful, but I like to meditate for an hour before I face the day. I then give my son a hearty Treat your baby to a luxury gift set
breakfast before he hops on the school bus at 8am. After a 40-minute jog in nearby Hyde Park, I head to my office and pick up my favourite oat milk cappuccino. I work until about 5:30pm before making dinner, helping with homework and eventually getting my son to bed. I might do a bit of work after that, but mostly I focus on preparing everything for the next day. Do you have a favourite product? I used to have two: our awardwinning Nappy Change Cream and Stretch Mark Butter, but this year we launched our unique Calming Anti-Pollution Baby Face Cream – that’s my current favourite! How do you maintain a good work/life balance? For all parents, this is an ongoing challenge. I felt I never accomplished enough at work
and even less so for my son, so I certainly haven’t mastered the balance. That said, this year, I told myself that I have to change my stressed mindset, so I started meditating and it has changed my life. There is only so much we can do and sometimes we simply have to let go, and then, somehow, things fall back into place. What’s been your proudest business moment? There’ve been so many. Having the products in my hand made me proud, as it took me almost two years to develop the range. Equally, every award we received was a moment of joy. Every new retail account is exciting, but one of our proudest moments was when Harrods decided to work with us; we are now one of the few skincare brands in the Baby Layette department. What’s next for Little Butterfly? Wider distribution and continuing to increase brand awareness in the British market. We look forward to working with more local partners and businesses. littlebutterflylondon.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: IINSTAGRAM.COM/MRSSOFIAGOUVEIA
Instagram star @mrssofiagouveia’s daughter is a fan of the baby range
A humanist naming ceremony The perfect welcome If you’re thinking of a non-religious naming ceremony for your child, a humanist naming ceremony is the most authentic, creative, and fitting choice. A Humanist CeremoniesTM celebrant will help you plan a unique, personal, and meaningful ceremony. Speak to an accredited humanist celebrant from the Humanist CeremoniesTM network. It’s a charity whose name and reputation for quality means you know it can always be relied upon.
Find out more and contact a celebrant near you today at
humanistceremonies.org.uk/ namings
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INTRODUCING APTAMIL SENSAVIA FOLLOW ON MILK WITH MILK PROTEIN BROKEN INTO SMALLER PIECES *Contains Vitamin D which contributes to the normal function of the immune system IMPORTANT NOTICE: Breastfeeding is best for your baby. Follow On Milk should only be used as part of a mixed diet and not as a breastmilk substitute before 6 months. Use on the advice of a healthcare professional. Do not use if your baby has been diagnosed with cow’s milk allergy.