Little Darlings - Winter 2013 (Bounty)

ISSUE 1: WINTER 2013

l itt l e the magazine for london mums

must-have

new!

up to 8 years

the hottest pushchairs & car seats in town

nursery slopes cool ski destinations

the fashion edit best dressed bumps and babies 9 782052 599008

01

£3.99

+

WHERE TO GIVE BIRTH IN LONDON WHAT TO DRIVE: THE BEST FAMILY CARS COUGHS & SNEEZES: WINTER REMEDIES EDUCATING BABY: WHEN & HOW TO CHOOSE

christmas delivered!

GREAT GIFTS & SEASONAL ACTIVITIES LITTLEDARLINGSMAGAZINE.COM

ed's letter Let's make cakes!

p75

Be inspired; Stylish interiors for the winter months

Win gorgeous prizes from BabyBjorn, Silver Cross, Vosene, B Kids and more

win! worth over

p95

£3,000

p63

Welcome to the first edition of Little Darlings.

Whether you’re about to become a new parent or already have kids, you’ll find lots to suit you and your lifestyle. We discuss the incredible changes your pregnant body goes through and help you survive kids’ seasonal ailments. We seek out the best spas and beauty treatments for new mums and show you how to Chic on the street; must-have pushchairs

look your best with quick, easy make-up looks.

Whether you’re looking for things the kids can do at home, places to go or where to see Santa, we have

p36

something for everyone over Christmas in London.

Take a look at our gorgeous kids' fashions and if you’re planning on escaping Town, we show you where to take the kids for a skiing experience you'll all remember. We have lots of great competitions for you too, so go online to www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY HENRIETTA GARDEN, LITTLE FACE PHOTOS WWW.LITTLEFACEPHOTOS.COM

to find out how to win!

Christmas gift guide - presents for all the family

p19

Fabulous in five minutes: fast beauty tips

p77

Perfect family ski holiday destinations

p102

Baby, it's cold outside!

But our mini models are all wrapped up

p41

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com LITTLE DARLINGS IS PUBLISHED BY THE CHELSEA MAGAZINE COMPANY LTD, JUBILEE HOUSE, 2 JUBILEE PLACE, LONDON SW3 3TQ WEB: LITTLEDARLINGSMAGAZINE.COM | TEL: 020 7349 3700 | FAX: 020 7349 3701 | EMAIL: INFO@LITTLEDARLINGSMAGAZINE.COM EDITOR SALLY J HALL | ASSISTANT EDITOR JOSEPHINE PRICE | CREATIVE DIRECTOR RUTH ELLIS | ART EDITOR RHIAN COLLEY | DESIGNER ALICIA FERNANDES | PUBLISHER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR PAUL DOBSON | DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR STEVE ROSS | COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR VICKI GAVIN | PUBLISHER SIMON TEMLETT | MARKETING MANAGER WILLIAM DELMONT | ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER HOLLY THACKER | DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER HELENA MARTINS | SALES EXECUTIVES ADAM WHITE, ANDY MABBITT, THOMAS MCMAHON | LITTLE DARLINGS ISSN 2052-5990 | DISTRIBUTED BY SEYMOUR INTERNATIONAL LTD. 2 EAST POULTRY AVENUE, LONDON, EC1A 9PT TEL: 020 7429 4000 FAX 020 7429 4001 | PRODUCTION WWW.ALLPOINTSMEDIA. CO.UK | PRINTED IN ENGLAND BY WYNDEHAM HERON, MALDON, ESSEX | © THE CHELSEA MAGAZINE COMPANY LTD 2013. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED |

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

3

contents

iss u e 1

cowni te nter 2 nt 0 13 s ON THE COVER

7

WHAT’S NEW, BABY?

13

‘TIS THE SEASON…

The latest news, the hottest new products.

What’s on at Christmas; great shows, visit Santa, ice rinks and carols. Plus, rainy day activities at home.

19

25 26 29

SANTA BABY! We ask Santa for his top gifts for mum, dad, baby and children this Christmas.

BABY'S FIRST CHRISTMAS Some little extras to slip into your child's stocking.

HELP! WHAT’S HAPPENING TO MY BODY? Pregnancy health niggles, solved.

PRETTY PREGNANT What the best-dressed bumps are wearing and a round-up of stylish nursing separates.

31

ARRIVING NOW IN LONDON Where to give birth, what to expect and what's worth paying for. Plus, profi le of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

36

PUSH IT! The ten hottest pushchairs. Plus, the best kids’ fi rst bikes and scooters.

41

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Gorgeous designer baby and children’s clothes to keep little ones snug.

4

48 55 58

little darlings

60

63

68 71 75 77 79 82

CHOOSING CHILDCARE From nannies to nurseries, we help you choose care for your child.

BABY BY NUMBERS Your essential new baby list.

SAFE AND SECURE; INFANT CAR SEATS Know the law and choose the best for your child.

MOTOR ON Four great family cars.

HOME SWEET HOME Gorgeous interiors and decorating the kids’ rooms.

BABY NAMES What are the top names of the last year and seasonal baby names.

FUSSY FOOD Our top tips on how to get your kids eating like humans.

I CAN MAKE make delicious Chocolate Financiers with Battenburg Belle.

FIVE MINUTES TO FABULOUS The catwalk make-up trends to recreate in five minutes.

EASY DOES IT gentle ways to get your body back after baby. Plus the hottest new fitness trends.

EARLY YEARS EDUCATION What are your educational choices; focus on Steiner education.

89 91

94 97 100 102

108 110 112 114

TIME FOR ME The four best London spas and home beauty treatments.

COUGHS AND SNEEZES Blitz those winter ailments, fast.

COMPETITION Win all these fantastic products worth over £3,000.

TRAVEL GEAR The best gadgets and gizmos for stress-free family travel.

REVIEWS New books and apps.

NURSERY SLOPES Take the whole family skiing this season. Best destinations and what to pack.

BABY'S BEST FRIEND TV presenter Ben Fogle helps you choose the perfect pooch.

I CAN MAKE Create a gorgeous Christmas card with your child.

WE LOVE: WE HATE Two mums discuss the controversy over swaddling.

STOCKISTS Love it? Where to buy it.

scan me!

Scan with your smartphone to go straight to our gorgeous digital magazine!

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Stockist Information: 0845 275 2800

Secure your favourite villa for 2014.

Call us on 020 7401 1010 or visit us at cvtravel.co.uk

news

NEWS

Health news, who's doing what, hottest products from Little Darlings

LITTLE DARLINGS Amelia dress £249

We've all gone Christening Crazy Luxury fabrics and leather trim make this a truly special pram.

Fit for a prince Despite constant speculation about which pram the Cambridges would buy, it's been confirmed that they have bought the iconic British brand, Silver

Cross. The company's Chairman, Alan Halsall said: "With over 130 years' experience in manufacturing prams, we are certain the Prince will enjoy his Silver Cross." It has

not been confirmed which model the couple chose but we love the Aston Martin special edition. With alloy wheels and sporty styling, it costs £2000 from Harrods.

Following the Christening of Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge, this traditional naming ceremony is sure to see signs of a boost. Though your baby may not be wearing a replica of a 172 year-old gown made from Honiton lace and silk created for members of the Royal Family, your little darling can still have a Christening fit for a prince or princess. Designed by Tessa Williams, this pure silk dress 'Amelia' dress from our namesakes, Little Darlings, has been beautifully created from silk and is hand embroidered with little rosebuds.

Available from Harrods, the dress with matching bloomers costs £249 and will become an heirloom for you and your your family. Celebrate with all the guests afterwards by serving cupcakes on this Rock A Bye Baby party cake stand, £11.99 from Party Pieces.

who Heatey! all the alreacadyk?es

PARTY PIECES Rock A Bye Baby party cake stand £11.99

WHEN TO WEAN

Mums are often confused about weaning, with some babies seeming to want purées and finger food early on, while others take a little longer to get going. Recent guidelines from the Department of Health suggest that babies under six months should be fed solely on breast milk. This helps ensure they get the correct mix of nutrients for their growing bodies. www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

7

news

NEWS For more maternity style, see page 29

Royal seal of approval for maternity brand

Sanna cardigan £79

Luxury maternity wear brand Seraphine had a bumper year when their clothes were spotted on not one, but two royals.

First, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge was seen in their Blossom dress a few days after the birth of Prince George, which promptly sold out. Then Zara Tyndall was photographed at the Boodles Boxing Ball wearing this stunning Bella silk colour block dress (right) from Seraphine's LUXE collection, which retails for £225.

Other well-known fans of the brand include Kate Winslet, Halle Berry, Angelina Jolie, January Jones, Claudia Schiffer, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Garner, Kate Hudson and Sienna Miller.

Nutrition In A Jar?

Baby food may not be as nutritious as you think. Many newspapers ran the story that commercially bought baby food had a lower vitamin and mineral content than meals made at home. This came from a study by researchers at the University of Glasgow looking at the nutritionals values of food brands bought in stores such as Baby Organix and Cow & Gate. The conclusion seems to be, if you can make it fresh at home, do!

8

little darlings

WHAT'S HOT IN STORE NOW

Fake fur collar, Graphite £25

Denver cardigan, Vanilla £79

Don't forget - book your flu jabs to avoid getting ill this Winter. Babies can now have a nasal spray for this, which avoids needles - and tears!

Nappies off!

Potty training is hard at the best of times but doing it in public takes a brave woman! TV presenter Jenni Falconer is potty training her two year old daughter, Ella and has started a blog together with Dry Like Me about

the ups, the downs, the dry days and the little accidents. If you're ready to take the plunge, sign up on the Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ DryLikeMeUK. For more information and potty training advice and special offers go to www.drylikeme.com

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

NEWS

Half of the UK's two and three year olds have a tablet computer,

New testing for Down's offers peace of mind for parents A new, non-invasive pregnancy test is being offered by Ultrasound Diagnostic Services at its Harley Street clinic.

The Harmony Test is designed to establish if an unborn baby is at risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down's syndrome.

Davina said: "having a home birth is not elitist."

Home birth 'a human rights issue' TV presenter and mother of three, Davina McCall, spoke out pasionately at a conference about the right to choose a home birth. Davina, who had all three of her children at home, praised the Independent Midwives' group, which has been hit hard by its inability to access adequate Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) for their members to practice in the UK. The lack of insurance and the Government's failure to come up with an alternative for self-employed midwives, means that thousands of womens' choice for a home birth are being compromised. Independent Midwives attend home births and practice outside of the NHS. They are often turned to by women who have had previous bad experiences of hospital births. Davina said that having a home birth was not only for those who could easily afford it and nor is it an elitist service.

10

little darlings

Because the test is noninvasive there is no risk for miscarriage or other risks associated with invasive testing procedures.

For more information on the test, contact the clinic on 020 7935 2243. www.uds.uk.com

The birth rate is soaring. During 2011 to 2012, 812,000 births were recorded in the UK, according to official figures.

DAMIAN'S ABC A new book by Damien Hirst will help introduce your child to his work. From A is for Anatomy to Z is for Zebra, the book shows examples of Hirst's paintings and sculptures.

Printed with child friendly 'soya bean ink', it's a colourful way to learn the alphabet.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

news according to a recent survey by OnePoll

New Fruit

TooTh faiRy Needed A recent study has shocking results for our children’s teeth. Nearly a quarter of five year olds have tooth decay, according to an analysis by Public Health England. The survey showed that 27% of all five year olds had tooth decay, though this number had decreased since 2008.

Prof Kevin Fenton, director of health at Public Health England said: "This latest survey shows that the numbers of five-year-olds free from tooth decay has improved but there is still much to do.

Parents should brush their children's teeth for at least two minutes twice a day, once just before bedtime and at least one other time during the day.

"Also, supervise tooth brushing until your child is seven or eight years old, either by brushing their teeth yourself or, if they brush their own teeth, by watching how they do it," he recommends.

The One carrier £119.99

you're the one The One carrier from Swedish nursery experts BabyBjorn has a few tricks up its sleeve. Available in black, not only is it a soft, adjustable carrier that will safely hold your newborn next to your heart, but you can also use it up to three years old.

Worn on your front for the first months, the One keeps your baby’s head, spine and hips in the perfect position, thanks to its design in collaboration with paediatricians.

When your little one gets a bit bigger, spin it round to your back and you can carry even a three year old in comfort.

swaddle news

Leading experts are warning that tight swaddling of babies can lead to hip problems. Professor Nicholas Clarke of Southampton University said swaddling was damaging developing hips. The Royal College of Midwives also advised parents not to swaddle their child tightly, though they acknowledged it was a cultural issue.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

A celebrity studded evening celebrated iconic pushchair brand iCandy’s 80th birthday and heralded its brand new pushchair, the Raspberry. iCandy presented a £5000 cheque to the Lullaby Trust, the charity which educates parents on how to keep their babies safe during sleep and provides support for those affected by the sudden death of an infant.

Attended by Donna Air, Emilia Fox, Jasmine Guinness, Grace Woodward and Jodie Kidd (and our Editor), the guests ate canapés and drank Moet & Chandon at 1 Marylebone, were entertained by singer Whinnie Williams and were treated to a catwalk show of iCandy’s pushchairs and its fantastic new changing bags, by ex-Mulberry designer Janet Collin.

little darlings

11

FAMILY FUN DAYS!

What’s waiting for you this season?

Framed Film Festival 16–24 Nov Fantastic films and workshops galore

Get Happy

Illustrations © Dominic Trevett

12–29 Dec A madcap, mischievous treat for families

Free Events www.nationalgallery.org.uk/families

LONDON’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SHOW Sadler’s Wells presents The Birmingham Repertory Theatre production of

The Gruffalo and the Gruffalo’s Child

TM

21 Dec Enchanting animation with live orchestra

22–23 Dec A cracking adventure with live orchestra barbican.org.uk/families

© Snowman Enterprises Ltd 1982, 2012

Wallace and Gromit’s Musical Marvels

The live stage show based on Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman Music and lyrics

by Howard Blake

“Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt” The Times

g Featurin

‘Walking in the Air’

ET ONLY £95 FAMILY TIstCK include at least 1 child 4 tickets, mu

Wed 27 Nov Sun 5 Jan 12

little darlings

Max £2.50 Transaction fee applies.

S A D L E R ’S W E L L S I N T H E W E S T E N D

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

what's on

winter wonderful!

It’s great to get out and about in London with the kids at this time of year. Check out our guide to the best shows and events - and handy tips for how to keep little ones amused if you’re stuck at home.

Dance, Theatre and Panto

Going to a show during the festive season is a special treat and kids love seeing the magic come alive!

The Snowman

Cinderella: A Fairytale

The Gruffalo and the Gruffalo’s Child

‘Twas The Night Before Christmas

Peacock Theatre WC2 27 Nov to 5 Jan £12-32

The Barbican EC2Y 21 Dec £25

Unicorn Theatre SE1 26 Nov to 5 Jan £15-22

Unicorn Theatre SE1 3 to 29 Dec £10-16

The Nutcracker Wallace & Grommit’s Musical Marvels The Barbican EC2Y 22 to 23 Dec £25-35

Royal Opera House WC2E 4 Dec to 16 Jan £6-112 SLAvIA'S SNOWSHOW

The Wind In The Willows

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake Sadler’s Wells EC1R 4 Dec to 26 Jan £32 to £60

Duchess Theatre WC2B 11 Dec to 1 Feb £17-58

THE SNOWmAN

Jack and the Beanstalk

Lyric Theatre WC2E 23 Nov to 4 Jan £12.50-35

The Ballad of Rudy

Chelsea Theatre, SW10 4 to 22 Dec £8

THE NUTCRACkER

book early to avoid disappointment

Slavia’s Snowshow

Royal Festival Hall SE1 17 Dec to 6 Jan £20-49.50

Puss in Boots

Hackney Empire E8 23 Nov to 5 Jan £10-32

Jack and the Beanstalk Broadway Barking IG11 30 Nov to 4 Jan £12-15

Please check the theatre’s website to see what ages these shows are suitable for.

Price ranges

Aladdin

New Wimbledon Theatre SW19 6 Dec to 12 Jan £8-29.50

Sleeping Beauty

Park Theatre N4 11 Dec to 19 Jan £15-19.50

are shown; however, many theatres offer a family ticket at a discounted rate. Check our online

Cinderella

Shaw Theatre NW1 13 to 31 Dec £16.50

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

guide for more details.

Cinderella

Beck Theatre UB3 14 Dec to 5 Jan £16.50-22

The Sleeping Beauty

Harrow Arts Centre HA5 19 to 23 Dec £12

Peter Pan - The Never Ending Story Wembley Arena HA9 2 to 4 Jan £22-49.50

War Horse

New London Theatre WC2B All dates £28.75-97.75

Matilda the Musical

Cambridge Theatre WC2 All dates £25-82

little darlings

13

Great Grottos There’s nothing more exciting for little ones than stepping into an enchanted Grotto to meet Santa and asking him for their heart’s desire for Christmas. Plan well in advance and bear in mind that some locations may require booking in advance and pre-registration.

Selfridges 4th Floor

Canary Wharf

Brixton Windmill

Enchanted Christmas House N1

(see box on Selfridge's Christmas experience)

EYE SKatE, loNdoN EYE

Ice Magic Wobbling around on skates with their hands held, kids will love the thrill of their first skating session. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate.

Natural History Museum SW7 31 Oct to 5 Jan £13.50 adults £9 children Tower of London EC3N 16 Nov to 5 Jan £12.50-13.50 adults £9.50 children

ChriStMaS at KEW 28 Nov to 4 JaN Illuminated trail through the gardens, Santa’s Woodland Grotto, Boutique Christmas Market £12.50 adults £8 children

SW2

14 Dec

1 to 23 Dec

London Zoo

NW1 (with real Reindeer) 17 Nov to 23 Dec

Westfield Shopping Centre

W12 Nov 22 to 24 Dec

Westfield Stratford

E20

Greenwich Market

SE10

22 to 24 Dec

28 Nov to 23 Dec

Winter Wonderland Hyde Park W2

23 Nov to 6 Jan

Ham House

E14

1 to 23 Dec

Kew Gardens

tW9

Sutton House

E9

8 Dec to 6 Jan

8 to 9 Dec

Museum of London

EC2Y

Sea Life Aquarium

SE1

Museum of London

E14

8 to 23 Dec

15 to 23 Dec

8 to 23 Dec

Harrods SW1X 2 Nov to 24 Dec

tW10

1 to 16 Dec

Hampton Court Palace

Nov 30-Jan 12 £11.50 adults £9.50 children

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 22 Nov to 5 Jan free

Broadgate Circle EC2M All dates £9 adults £7 children Somerset House

14 Nov to 5 Jan £14.50 adults £8.75 children

London Eye

SE1 27 Nov to 5 Jan £9.45 adults £6.75 children

Christmas Food & Gift Markets

Wrap up and venture out to markets full of potential presents and food gifts

Christmas Market, Southbank Centre SE1 16 Nov to 24 Dec Sprit of Christmas Fair Olympia W14 5 to 10 Nov More London Christmas Market The Scoop SE1 11 to 15 Dec Handmade Christmas at the O2 SE10 13 to 15 Dec Boutique de Noel Kensington Town Hall W8 15 to 16 Nov Spitalfields Winter Festival Spitalfields Market E1 6 to 17 Dec

SElfridgES ChriStMaS floor 24 oCt to 24 dEC this year the whole of the fourth floor of Selfridges will become a magical Christmas experience, with oodles of gifts, trees and decorations, extravagant stockings and tons of bespoke gifts that can be engraved or embroidered with your child’s name. Entertainers will keep you all amused and the Elfridges can help you choose the perfect gift for that special person.

14

little darlings

life-size polar bears!

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

what's on

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 23 nov to 5 Jan Ice skating, Zippo’s Christmas Circus, Magical Ice Kingdom, giant wheel, rides and Santa’s Grotto.

Free to enter but rides are chargeable

CHristmas at kensington PalaCe 30 nov to 6 Jan inspired by king William iii’s winter palace of 1699, where he held a whole month of parties. enjoy seasonal games, festive music and try your hand at the courtly games in the king’s gallery and drawing room. the season will culminate in a twelfth night finale weekend on 4, 5 and 6 January.

reindeer at london zoo

Budding tHesPian

st Pauls

Carol Singing

the lost theatre in Wandsworth has over thirty years' experience in providing professional theatrical training for children. if you think your little one is a star in the making, give them a call to get your child booked onto one of their courses. Past and present students can be seen performing at the national theatre and in the West end. info@losttheatre.co.uk 020 7622 9208

There’s nothing that heralds Christmas more than having a good old singsong. If it’s traditional carols you want, the service to look out for is Nine Lessons and Carols, which is usually celebrated about a week before Christmas and the child-friendly Christingle. There are also plenty of concerts with audience sing-alongs that include both carols and favourite Christmas songs. Check online for dates and times.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Martin In The Fields

Westminster Abbey

Trafalgar Square

Westminster Cathedral

Covent Garden

Hampton Court Palace

And local churches

Albert Hall

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

WWW.littledarlingsmagazine.Com/WHats-on little darlings

15

Goblin Present

Would you . . . e like to walk in th ds? n e g le f o s p e t s t foo

A vibrant and jazzy Christmas show for Children 3 and up, featuring live music and a Jazz Penguin!

4 – 22 December Tue – Sun 10.30am & 1.30pm (50 mins) All tickets £8 Book Online at chelseatheatre.org.uk Chelsea Theatre, London SW10 0EW

Chelsea Theatre is fully accessible. For more information on your visit please go to our website.

Illustration: Chantal Renn

16

little darlings

LORD’S TOUR & MUSEUM Go behind the scenes at the Home of Cricket. Enjoy English heritage, experience the historic Ground and explore the largest cricket collection in the world. lords.org/tours | + (44) 207 616 8595 | tours@lords.org

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

what's on Visit LapLand in the UK

maryLeBone CriCKet CLUB if your kids love cricket, a tour of Lord’s will give them a snapshot of cricketing history. expert guides take you around the pavilion, the Long room and the dressing rooms. sit on seats usually occupied by the england team and best of all, see the ashes Urn in the mCC museum, home to over 400 years of cricketing history.

this Christmas, treat your little ones to the most magical Father Christmas experience at LaplandUK, an authentic awardwinning immersive theatrical production which magically transports your child to Father Christmas' arctic homeland. set in ascot, Berkshire, this trip is as close as you can get to the 'real thing' and your kids will cherish it forever.

Cabin Fever

If it’s too wet or cold to go out and the kids are bouncing off the walls, here are some tips and activities to keep them amused.

“I’ve Been a Good Boy”

Have they been good? Writing a letter to Santa is a great tradition and excellent letter writing practice. Once your little ones have put their wishes onto paper, you can use the old fashioned way to ‘send’ it to Santa by burning it and seeing the smoke go up the chimney - assuming you have an open fire (parents must do this for their kids). Alternatively, send it through Royal Mail to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ and he will reply to as many as possible. Don’t forget your return address and a stamp! In the modern age, Santa is also available by email and there are a number of companies who offer an 'Email Santa' service too.

Look What I Made!

Using half a cup of salt, half of water and a whole cup of flour, place the dry ingredients in a bowl and add the water. Little fingers will love the sticky, gooey paste this makes and after a little time spent kneading, it forms a soft ball. Roll it out and use decorative cutters to make festive shapes. Bake them in a very low oven for an hour or so until they harden, or microwave for 2-3 minutes. Once they have cooled, paint the shapes and add glitter, stars – whatever you like!

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Camping For Softies

Create a magical indoor campsite with a few simple household items. Throw sheets over the kitchen table, or use a play wigwam. Pop a rug and some cushions inside, their favourite toys, a ‘campfire’ made from scrunched yellow and red tissue paper and some play pots and pans. Wave goodbye as your kids spend hours on their indoor camping adventure.

It’s Snowing Inside

Take a circle of paper (or a coffee filter!) and fold in half, then again. Use small, rounded-end scissors to help your kids cut little triangles and circles into the sides of the folded paper and when you open it, you've got a gorgeous snowflake. Stick them to the window or suspend from strings to decorate your kids’ bedrooms.

Try it with gold or silver paper too.

Handy Heirloom

First, cover the table (and perhaps the floor!) with old newspaper. Using a foil pie dish or paper plate, mix up some poster paint with a little water. Then help your little one to create hand prints on some plain, thick paper. Get all the family to add theirs on too and you’ll have a picture to treasure.

little darlings

17

advertisement promotion

Rudy’s Big Secret it into an environment not traditionally associated with it.”

Funny, warm and with a massive heart, this Christmas show is guaranteed to have children aged three and over mesmerised. Sing the blues with a Polar Bear, jam with the Puffins and beat-box with an Arctic Fox. It all happens at the North Pole Jazz Lounge; the coolest place on earth.

jazz penguin Housed inside a modernistic building just off the King’s Road in Chelsea, a magical world will come alive for children this Christmas at the Chelsea Theatre.

rudy and the band

Though the young audience may have thought Santa’s favourite Reindeer had a red nose and was busy getting ready for his big day, in fact he is secretly exploring his more artistic side as a Jazz musician.

The Ballad of Rudy is a new show bringing jazz to life for kids. Composed

by David Lydon and Will Dollard, members of the acclaimed Gypsy Funk Jazz Band Los Pelos Rizos, they will bring the music to life with a live band, including funk, swing, blues and scat styles.

polar bear blues

“The Jungle Book has been a big inspiration,” says joint-composer David Lydon. “It takes the fun of Jazz and puts

Jazz Legend Claude Deppa, a founder member of the Jazz Warriors and one the UK’s most influential jazz musicians, has been cast as the Jazz Penguin. He is joined by fabulous actor musicians Wendy Paver (Dreamboats and Petticoats, West End and Tour) and Dan Bottomley.

“During the show there’s a song that’s improvised with the audience, which is will be available as a free download,” says Producer Matt Borgatti. The songs will be different each day so by the end of the run we’ll have 34 new tracks!”

4 December – 23 December 2013 (except monDays) at 10.30am & 1.30pm chelsea theatre, lonDon sW10 0Dr tickets, £8, on sale noW. WWW.chelseatheatre.org.uk

Santa Baby

christmas gift guide all products available at www.selfridges.com

christmas gift-list for all the family

wreapu p m

ex clusive toes

g Selfrid

for babies

mwe ruap p

cute doll y

FROM TOP LEFT: BONNIE BABY Geometric knit blanket £48 • NATURES PUREST Hug Me Bear £19 • ADEN & ANAIS Jungle Jam Giraffe Cosy Blanket £30.99 • NATURES PUREST Natalie Rag Doll £37 • MINI MELISSA Vivienne Westwood Jelly Shoes £64 • JELLYCAT Jungly Tails book £14 • MINI MELISSA Vivienne Westwood jelly shoes 6 months-5 years • NATURES PUREST Teddy snuggle buddy £16 • VILAC Baby lady bird pull toy £16

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

19

Santa

christmas gift-list

baobzy art M

ex clusive toes

g Selfrid

be a s

py

a ng e l !

for kids FROM TOP LEFT: SAFARI 318 rollerball pen £11.95 • VILAC Toy Piano £40 • CALAFANT Castle £16.50 • APPLE iPod shuffle 2GB - green £40 • HOPE AND GREENWOOD JOLLY SHAKE 300G £6.99 • BELLE ENFANT Magic Fairy Wings 36 • • SEEDLING TOP SECRET SPY KIT £21.95

20

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

christmas gift guide

Baby

available at www.selfridges.com

for all the family

ex clusive toes

g Selfrid

myuummmy my

l too sccohoool for

beautif ully bespok e

for Mum FROM TOP LEFT: PAUL SMITH ACCESSORIES Silk swirl-print square scarf 125 • GIORGIO ARMANI Rouge Ecstasy lipstick £25 • ESTEE LAUDER Modern Muse eau de parfum 100ml £86 • NINE WEST Mainstay leather ankle boots £145 WATERMAN Hemisphere stainless steel fountain pen with gold trim £41 • TATTY DEVINE Every Beat of My Heart necklace £575 GODIVA Coeur Iconique assorted chocolates 65g £11 • THE CAMBRIDGE SATCHEL COMPANY The Classic leather satchel 15" in yellow £130 • DIOR by Caroline Bongrand and Jerome Hanover £50 • GUCCI G Class goldplated bracelet watch £565

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

21

Celebrate Christmas with

Winnie-the-Pooh

Gorgeous Christmas gift book with five special letters, a Christmas card and decorations !

Perfect stocking fillers only ÂŁ2.99 !

In all good bookshops and online

Santa Baby

christmas gift guide available at www.selfridges.com

christmas gift-list for all the family

da for pdpaerd

ex clusive toes

Selfrid

g

p e rs o n al is e d g ift

ongllyish E n h is ky w

for dad

FROM TOP LEFT: ARMANI EXCHANGE AX1041 two-toned chronograph watch £165 • BALLY Oriano leather trainers £270.00 • PRADA Luna Rossa eau de toilette 100ml from £45 • HERSCHEL Post backpack £55.00 • FULLUM & HOLT Nyles woven belt £80 • PANTHERELLA Laurence harlequin socks £15 • THE ENGLISH WHISKY CO. St Georges Chapter 6 whisky 700ml £48.99 • DRAKES Mini houndstooth pocket square £50.00 • BEATS™ by Dr. Dre™ Studio™ Limited Edition £269.99

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

23

Unique high quality products for your precious ones

Fun & unusual gifts for kids aged 0 -10

Clothes . Toys . Accessories

www.double-flip.com Offer valid before 10/12/13

24

little darlings

Use code D13 for

10% off!

Playmats • Educational • 100% waterproof • Wipe clean • Reversible designs • Well cushioned • Non-toxic @totokidogouk

www.totokidogo.com info@totokidogo.com www.facebook.com/totokidogouk +44 (0)20 3556 5445

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Christmas gifts

Baby's First Christmas Some items to slip into your little one’s stocking and one for Mummy, too. feed me

Vital Baby offer practical and fun products your little one will love.

From the Unbelievabowl, which sticks to the highchair to avoid messy feeding, to fun bath toys, there’s something for all.

shark attack

Is it a buoyancy aid, is it a water toy – no, it’s all three. It’s the Swimfin. Children will learn to swim with confidence using this clever aid. Unlike arm-bands it works in harmony with the body, helping develop a better swimming position.

charming

Darling & Darling offers unusual keepsake gifts for babies and their mummies, such as this sterling silver keyring with up to six charms. It’s engraved with yours and your babies’ names and can have a special message, too.

easy tiger

Giving a gift is easy with the special boxes from Cocobaci. The Toby Tiger set comprises a 100% organic rainbow stripe all-in-one with matching hat and blanket.

Hand-wrapped in tissue and sealed with a Cocobaci kiss it comes with a gift card and message.

treasure

Traditional children’s dolls, clothes and accessories make a wonderful gift to be treasured. Petalina offers the Gotz Hannah doll with all her clothes and accessories, plus a range of Kidz 'n' Catz dolls and clothing.

rock me

This stylish suspended Leander Cradle, £299, from Mini Objects of Desire mirrors the movements they have been used to in the womb.

banging good fun

Invest in earplugs and introduce your children to playing music with this illustrated wooden Classic Toys Fish Drum from It's a Wooden World.

designers on tap

Kiddiwinks is an online store for you and your baby. The clever team has rounded up the best designer names for little ones into one stylish and easy-to-use hub.

one for mum

Luxury Italian brand Il Tutto has perfected the baby changing bag with their chic leather range. With pockets and compartments galore they do the job, and look fantastic!

inside out

Reversible clothes and toys are great and offer hours of fun.

Double Flip’s reversible toys like this Red Riding Hood have great details like her picnic basket, with jam and waffles for tea. Granny is waiting underneath!

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

scan me!

Find more gift inspiration on our Pinterest page.

little darlings

25

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

When you’re pregnant, all sorts of things seem to happen to your body.

Health expert Radhika Holmström solves some of the most common pregnancy health niggles.

help!

What’s happening to my body?

26

little darlings

In 40 weeks, your body grows a baby from a single cell to a tiny person weighing around eight pounds. It's also readying itself to get that baby out and provide it with home-grown food. You're generating babyfriendly hormones and extra blood.

So it’s not surprising that sometimes you’re not so much blooming as wilting.

“Everyone has some problems,” says midwife and pregnancy expert Zita West. “And it's a time when we don’t want to take medication.”

But, she adds, do tell your midwife or GP if there’s anything worrying you (and don’t forget you get free prescriptions too!).

Here’s our guide to six of the most common complaints….

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

pregnancy niggles

Stretchmarks

Heartburn

Bleeding gums

What’s happening?

The red crinkly marks that everyone associates with pregnancy are expanding across your bump.

What’s causing it?

The skin is stretching (no surprise there)…but this stretching also goes deep into the dermis, where no mere oil or cream can reach.

What can you do?

Sadly, not a great deal. (Believe us, if there was, we’d have done it!) “It’s purely dependent on your skin,” says Zita West. There’s no harm in moisturising, and that’ll also help your stretched skin feel less sore and dry too, but there’s no guaranteed solution.

What should you watch out for?

Intense itching on the bump, which might indicate obstetric cholestatis, a rare liver condition. If you have severe itching, talk to your GP.

What’s happening?

Even if you’ve never given your digestion a second thought, you feel as acid is corroding your insides .

What’s causing it?

Your body's squashing up to accommodate your baby, and stomach acid is pushed up onto delicate digestive tissues.

What can you do?

“Little meals and often,” recommends Gail Johnson of the Royal College of Midwives.

Over-the-counter antacids help too, though they can stop your body absorbing some vitamins and minerals. “Acupuncture can make a bit of difference,” adds Zita West. “But sadly, we often can’t do much for it.”

What should you watch out for?

Headaches and/or swelling on top of the pain, which could be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This needs urgent medical attention.

What’s happening?

Even if your dental hygiene has always been great before, your gums are sore and swollen and you’re spitting blood when you brush.

What’s causing it?

Hormones. The good thing is, it’s not gum disease and they'll go back to normal afterwards.

What can you do?

Keep cleaning, , says Karen Coates, dental advisor with the British Dental Health Foundation. “Plaque will make it worse. You get free dental treatment until your baby’s one, so make an appointment. Ask before you switch to a softer brush and perhaps visit the hygienist too (you'll have to pay for this).

What should you watch out for?

Brushing too soon after vomiting, when the mouth is still acidic and tooth enamel vulnerable. Rinse with fluoride mouthwash or water.

ANY Queasiness should BE GONE by AROUND 16 weeks

PhotograPhy: alex Mares-Manton/getty

Sickness What’s happening?

You’re nauseous or vomiting in the morning.

What’s causing it?

Usually this is down to pregnancy hormones (so your retching is reassuring): though if you’re low in vitamin B6 that may be part of it too.

What can you do?

Queasiness should go by 16 weeks, says Dr Roger Gadsby, Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Warwick and advisor for Pregnancy Sickness Support (pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk). Rest and keep a diary; most of us have a few hours when it’s easier to eat. Some recommend ginger, but Gadsby suggests a sugary drink to get some glucose, calories and electrolytes into you.

What should you watch out for?

Sickness that totally wipes you out for days on end: there are medications that help, so talk to the GP.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Constipation and piles

What’s happening?

Your loo has become a torture zone! Either you’re incapable of ‘going’, or it’s agony when you do…

What’s causing it?

Hormones relaxing your body also relax your gut and the veins around your anus, so they’re swollen. And in a vicious cycle, constipation and/or straining makes piles worse…

What can you do?

“Get lots of fluids and fibre, and be active to keep things moving,” says Gail Johnson.

Acupuncture can help with piles, and pelvic floor exercises firm muscles up. Prescription or over the counter medications can help – don’t be embarrassed to ask GP or midwife.

What should you watch out for?

Getting into a vicious cycle where you’re too scared to 'go'. That’ll make everything worse.

Backache What’s happening?

Your lower back is killing you!

What’s causing it?

Your ligaments are softened by the hormone relaxin – and your posture can be bad!

What can you do?

“Sit or stand tall, so your tummy muscles have to work harder and support your back,” advises Vicky Keates, a senior women’s health physiotherapist, (womens-health-physio.co.uk).

“If you’re sitting slumped, the weight of the baby will rest on your spine. Think about how you get out of bed too – roll over smoothly movement, don’t lurch or use your back as a lever.” This is the time to put into practice all those times you’ve been told ‘bend with your knees, not your back’.

What should you watch out for?

Bad pain late on – say 30 weeks – which could be the sign of a urinary tract infection.

little darlings

27

For 9 months you have done the very BEST for your baby...

Why Stop Now? with special lie-flat function

Better for Baby’s spine.

Better for Baby’s health.

Better for Baby’s sleep.

Better for you.

Compatible with leading pushchair brands. For more information visit www.kiddy.uk.com *

freephone 0800 747 1700 *Certified and recommended by Association Forum Healthy Back – Better Living and Federal Association of German Back Schools.

More information: AGR e.V., Pf. 103, D - 27443 Selsingen, Phone + 49 4284/92 69 990, www.agr-ev.de

Follow us on facebook KiddyUK Follow us on twitter KiddyCarSeats

maternity fashion

UNDER WRAPS

All you need for a stylish pregnancy plus a few key breastfeeding essentials

outdoors

Keeping you warm and on trend, these pieces will see you through cold snaps

work/smart

Add a few key items to your wardrobe for the Christmas party season

ROCK-A-BYE ROSIE Gabrielle grecian one shoulder maxi dress £125

ISABELLA OLIVIER Wardour suit £265.30

JOJO MAMAN BEBE Khaki twill parka £69

BABES WITH BABIES Oatmeal poncho £95 • JOJO MAMAN BEBE Purple short swing coat £65 • MADELEINE THOMPSON AW13 Maddy beanie hat £130 • ISABELLA OLIVIER Alma coat £259 • CRAVE Contrast sleeve coat £150 • CHLOE Marcie leather satchel £695

evening

Stay chic and smart with your bump whether in the office or out for lunch

BABES WITH BABIES Darcy in Dulwich coat £299 • MADELEINE THOMPSON Snake scarf £195 • SERAPHINE Blossom print knot dress £50 • JOJO MAMAN BEBE Black pencil skirt and white shirt £29 each • DIOR Diorissimo bag £3200

ISABELLA OLIVIER Monmouth dress £60 • BABES WITH BABIES Berkley dress £265 • SERAPHINE Belle silk colour block maxi gown £225 • JOJO MAMAN BEBE Lace shift dress £49 • ASOS Embroidered skater dress £85• STELLA MCCARTNEY Beckett envelope clutch £450

breastfeeding essentials JOJO MAMAN BEBE Waterfall Feeding Cardigan £35 BRAVADO nursing bra £36

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

JOJO MAMAN BEBE Wrap top £29 CRAVE Amoralia organic berry nursing bra £35

little darlings

29

sleep theofbest present all sleep sleep the best present

the best present

of ofallMERMAID all MATERNITY

RETREAT is a centre of excellence dedicated to MERMAID MATERNITY RETREAT is a centre MERMAID RETREAT theMATERNITY support, health, and iswell-being of a of centre of excellence dedicated pregnant women and newto Our excellence dedicated tofamilies. the support, the support, health, and well-being of RETREAT range ofwell-being services hasofbeen createdwomen to is MERMAID MATERNITY health, and pregnant pregnant women and flourish new families.

Our help you through pregnancy, aand centre of excellence dedicated to families.

Our range of services has range ofnew services has been created to get off to the perfect start with your new help you flourish through pregnancy, been created toachieve help you flourish through the support, health, and well-being of baby, and the best recovery getpregnancy, off to the perfect start new get offwith to your the perfect start Our with during the months that follow. pregnant women and new families. baby, andpossible achieve the best recovery

your new and achieve the best recovery possible during the months that follow. range of baby, services has been created to Theduring Retreatthe also provides a follow. nurturing possible months that

help you place toprovides stay with your babypregnancy, in those The Retreat alsoflourish a through nurturing Theto Retreat awith nurturing place stay your baby in those important firstprovides few days after theyour birth. place get off to with thealso perfect start new important fewyour days after to stayfirst with babytheinbirth. those important first baby, The andMermaid achieveexperience the best recovery has been few days after the birth.

possible during the has months The Mermaid experience been carefully designed by that the follow.

UK’s carefully designed by theexperts, UK’s The Mermaid experience has been carefully leading maternity and brings leading maternity experts, and brings together under one roof all athenurturing skills designed the allUK’s leading maternity The Retreat provides together under by one also roof the skills andand knowledge you will needone to roof experts, brings together under and knowledge you will need to place prepare to stayyourself with for your baby in into those your journey prepare yourself for your journey into all themotherhood skills and knowledge need important few days afteryou thewill birth. and beyond. motherhood andfirst beyond. to prepare yourself for your journey into motherhood and beyond.

The Mermaid experience has been Mermaid wishes allwishes new families Mermaid all new families Mermaid wishes all new families a happy acarefully happy and restful festive season . designed by the UK’s a happy and restful festive season . and restful festive season.

Mermaid Maternity

@MermaidRetreat

Mermaid Maternity Image by Julia Boggio Studios – official Mermaid family@MermaidRetreat photographers Image by Julia Boggio Studios – official Mermaid family photographers

HACKNEY EMPIRE presents

Mermaid Maternity

@MermaidRetreat

Image by Julia Boggio Studios – official Mermaid family photographers

‘HACKNEY CONTINUES TO SEE OFF CHALLENGES …

AND RETAINS THE LONDON LAURELS. DING-DONG!’

★★★★

FINANCIAL TIMES, 2012

leading maternity experts, and brings together under one roof all the skills and knowledge you will need to prepare yourself for your journey into motherhood and beyond. www.mermaid.co.uk www.mermaid.co.uk

www.mermaid.co.uk

Mermaid wishes all new families a happy and restful festive season.

www.mermaid.co.uk

GREAT CATERING PACKAGES AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES!

NOV JAN HACKNEYEMPIRE.CO.UK

23to05 020 8985 2424 30

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

where to give birth

arriving now in London PHotograPHy CHeLSea & WeStmINSter HoSPItaL

What are your choices for where you give birth?

We look at central London NHS and Private hospitals There are many reasons to be glad about living in London. Great restaurants, theatres and cinemas on every corner, shopping to suit all tastes. We are also blessed with some of the best maternity units in the country. Though where you live might dictate your choice of maternity unit, we give you our snapshot of where to give birth in Central London, whether you’re going private or NHS all the way.

Imperial College Hospital

Chelsea & Westminster Hospital

You have a choice of Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital or St Mary’s Hospital and you can choose to have your baby at home, a birth centre or in hospital. They offer a full range of services from midwifery-led to high-risk care. Queen Charlotte’s is renowned for foetal medicine and boasts one of the largest neonatal intensive care units in the country. The labour ward has two theatres.

On the NHS labour wards, you can opt for midwife or Consultant-led care or you can choose a home birth. There are also two post-natal wards to recover in. The facilities include a birthing pool, which is shared between two birthing rooms. A new midwife-led unit is opening in December with eight fully equipped rooms.

Best For: The private Lindo Wing, where The Duchess of Cambridge gave birth, offers private en-suite or deluxe rooms room, full hotel facilities, breastfeeding, changing and bathing advice. www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Best for: it's the only NHS hospital to offer Doulas to give advice and support before and during labour in The Nest, its room for couples. They also have a clinic for talking through your birth experience a few weeks after your baby arrives. See the profile on page 35. little darlings

31

The complete bugaboo bee is the extra smart choice for modern urban parents that live life on the fly with their newborn – or toddler.

BEE IN THE CITY

beeinthecity.bugaboo.com

GROW, BIRTH TO TODDLER COMPACT LIGHT, EASY, QUICK bugaboo bee the complete urban stroller

where to give birth

St Thomas’ Hospital According to the Care Quality Commission, St Thomas’ offers some of the best maternity services in London and boasts state-of-theart facilities. Home births are available, as are ward-based births. A full team of maternity staff includes Consultants plus specialist and Consultant midwives. The birth centre has 18 en-suite rooms and two dedicated operating theatres.

Best for: The home-from-home birth centre, which has nine rooms suitable for low-risk pregnancies. Led by midwives and with en-suite facilities, there's a bed-settee for your partner, a birthing ball, mats, stools and even ropes. There are two birthing pools and a garden room to relax in during early labour.

Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Wing Part of UCH, it offers a range of options for normal births right through to problem pregnancies and babies who need special care.

Women can choose from a home birth with community care, or give birth in the midwife-led birth centre or on the labour ward with a highly skilled team of midwives and obstetricians. It has two theatres.

Best for: All rooms in the Birth Centre have en-suite facilities and are brightly designed with controlled lighting. They are also equipped with a birthing ball, mats and birthing stools.

Royal London Hospital Offering the choice of several levels of care from midwifery to Consultant, the hospital has brand new labour wards. You can also choose to give birth in the birthing centre, plus there are ante-natal classes and courses for Dads. There is great breastfeeding support, too.

Best for: The hospital also offers a specialist team of obstetric physiotherapists who offer treatment for pregnancy-related problems such as back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome (pain and aching, numbness or weakness in the fingers).

King’s College Hospital With a full team of midwives and doctors, you can give birth in the Nightingale birthing centre with its birthing pools and bring along your own music to relax to. The Maternal Assessment Unit helps with problems during labour and there are dedicated theatres and recovery rooms. You can have a community care-led home birth too.

Best for: There are 10 birthing rooms plus a four-bed unit that is used to care for high-risk women. Rooms have a bed, reclining chair, birthing ball and mat, bean bag, stereo and are en-suite. There are two movable, inflatable pools for waterbirths.

The Portland Hospital Delivers over 2,000 babies a year and has a team of experienced midwives and Consultant Obstetricians, many of whom hold senior positions at London’s top NHS hospitals. Facilities include 24-hour anaesthesia, three theatres, Neonatal Intensive Care and Special Care Baby Unit plus a range of ante- and post-natal classes.

Best for: A range of private en-suite rooms and four exclusive suites, with the option for your partner to stay overnight. There’s also a full hotel service including 24-hour room service. www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

5 things

worth paying for Private room in an NHS hospital Benefit: If you had a long or tricky birth or had a Caesarean, you may want more privacy and to be able to get the sleep you might miss in a noisy post-natal ward. Private rooms are usually only available if they are not needed for an emergency case, so they can't be booked. And if you did have a difficult birth, the nurses may want you near their station anyway. The cost is determined by the hospital and varies quite a bit, in the region of £50 -150 per night. Be aware that if an emergency comes in, you may get bumped out.

Private Birth Benefit: a private maternity hospital or wing is almost like being in a hotel, expect that you have your baby there, too. You usually choose a package of care and, should you have a problem-free pregnancy with a natural delivery, you'd be paying about £5,500-8,000. A planned Caesarean would be more, as would any emergency procedures for you or your baby. You get great food though, and the chance for your partner to be with you during and after the birth.

Hypnobirthing Benefit: One of the most popular new trends in labour, hynobirthing offers mums a range of self hypnosis, relaxation and breathing techniques for a better birth. It is lauded as being the alternative to pain relief and may work well for some women, though not all. Prices vary depending on whether you attend private one-to-one classes with a practitioner or as part of a group but expect to pay between £250 and £400.

Private after care Private after-care centres are springing up, such as the Mermaid Maternity Retreat on The King's Road. After having your baby, you can go to one of these facilities to recover and its hotel-like facilities are enhanced with help and care from experts on breastfeeding, nutrition and baby care from £300.

Doula or Night Nanny If you've had a difficult labour or have older children, a Night Nanny can help you get back to normal. They support you with their handson experience of babies and mothers and have an extensive knowledge of sleep patterns, the baby’s and mother's health and sleep safety. In the first weeks you may feel vulnerable and a good Night Nanny offers gentle guidance without dictating to you. Around £100-200 per night.

NexT ISSue: NORTH weST lONDON INCluDINg A PROfIle Of THe ROYAl fRee HOSPITAl

little darlings

3333

advertisement promotion

Nurturing Care for New Mums

Imagine spending your pregnancy in comfort, full of energy and confidence. Once your baby is born, you spend a few days bonding with your baby, cocooned away from the stresses of the outside world, supported by a knowledgeable and familiar team who are there to help give your new family the right start.

The UK’s top maternity and women’s health experts have been brought together to give you The Mermaid Maternity Retreat, a centre of excellence dedicated to improving the maternity experience of mothers and babies. A members-only, newborn-friendly boutique luxury retreat, Mermaid has round the clock expert support helping you and your partner approach this exciting time in life with confidence.

Mermaid offers a safe and cosy environment with 24/7 support to help you

recover, establish feeding, acquire important baby care skills and bond with your baby during these special early days. Loved ones are welcome to join you and share those allimportant first introductions.

Whenever problems arise, Mermaid is here to guide you through them before they can become major issues.

Mermaid offers education workshops to help parents prepare for the birth, make well-informed decisions, build confidence and recover well after the birth.

MerMaid Maternity MeMbership froM £30 per Month.

MerMaid Maternity support stay froM £595 per night 234a new Kings road, London, sw3 5ua 020 7199 3220 | www.MerMaid.co.uK

where to give birth

profile: giving birth at the chelsea and westminster hospital

photography chelsea and westminster hospital

We’ve designed the Midwife -Led Unit to make mum feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible.

Our experienced maternity team at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital deliver over 5,000 babies each year and our care of women with high risk pregnancies is well respected nationally with a specialist Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to look after premature babies.

We have the only NHS doulas service in the UK. Other tailored support we provide includes a specialist midwife to care for women that have had a previous caesarean section and dedicated care to those with a fear of childbirth.

We also offer specialist antenatal classes including Natal Hypnotherapy ™ and sessions specifically for fathers-to-be.

We have now widened the choice of birthing options we provide by building a bespoke midwife led unit alongside our other facilities. www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

The unit, opening late December, is a spa-like facility comprising of seven rooms, four with birthing pools and all having mood lighting that can be controlled by mum during birth. A private suite is also available to women accessing our private patients' service, with their care coordinated by their chosen midwife.

Vivien Bell, Head of Midwifery, says: “We respect each mother’s decision when it comes to how they wish to give birth and provide women with a full range of options for their birth plan, from homebirth all the way through to a consultant led delivery.

“We’ve designed the Midwife -Led Unit to make mum feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible. Women that

Facts 16 dedicated consultants, 165 midwives 100% of women receive 1:1 care during labour 98% of women say they had a good experience at chelsea and Westminster Women can self-refer or be referred to the unit by their GP

choose this service will have all of their antenatal and postnatal appointments in the unit, which will provide mothers choosing Chelsea and Westminster Hospital with the continuity of care they want throughout pregnancy. It will be the newest and most state-of-the art unit in London and we encourage women to view the environment and meet our experienced midwifery team when it opens later this year.”

For further information about maternity services at Chelsea and Westminster please visit www.chelwest. nhs.uk/maternity or contact Vivien Bell, (Head of Midwifery) by email: Vivien.bell@chelwest.nhs.uk or by calling 020 3315 7900.

tWitter: @LoLa_emidWiFe little darlings

35

pushchair review

PUSH IT

e yers' guid u b y g g u b Your

BUG CAM ABOO ELE ON

£799

B gre ig re ar at wh Urb for san eels an a b d ste re eri & sn Tra eze ow ng n or tra sform s vel sys to pr am tem

STOKKE XPLORY

£829

High seat makes it perfect for cafés Fully adjustable for comfort Comfortable handle and one-handed push

QUINNY MOODD

£698

Bold, contemporary design Compact & small fold Travels system compatible & takes folding carrycot

JOO

£729LZ

R

CA E B BE P IPO

£789

ram o p t m rms sfo syste n n a g l Tr i e s v tra ic de s or s a for y e Cl tyl heels bilit s and rge w euvra La ano y m s a e

DAY

Eas i chi ly ad jus ld H pul igh s & pa ts t o s re ea l ize Fou ed up t th nt a r w t t can hee o ca f l s b usp é tab e les ens ion of

PHIL&TEDS NAVIGATOR

£628

Great for all terrain Automatic stop feature for safety Transforms to a double, in-line pushchair

36

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF BRITISH DESIGN

www.icandyworld.com

pushchair review

RIDE ON

SILVER CROSS SURF

£720

Wheelie go od bikes

Great colours and accessories Funky chassis and large wheels One-touch fold mechanism & compact fold

MUT IGO SY

£599

BUMBLERIDE INDIE

Carerra Coast Balance Bike £59.99 Playful colours and a lightweight yet strong frame with comfy saddle.

A rev djust abl er Cho sible e an d i or s air ce of eat lig ty C htw add hoice res eig o a c ht ar f car ryc sea ot t or

£499

Wide, comfortable seat Generous wheels with fixed or swivel front wheel Can be used for jogging

Mini Micro Scooter £59.95 Three wheel stability gives your child confidence as they tilt, lean and scoot.

Apollo Digby Boy's Bike £59.99

With trusty brakes, this has a very important rear tool box.

ICANDYBERRY STRAW

£450

great s in a c i r b a Soft f olours with of c pram ( em o t range s m or syst Transf or travel and ot) carryc one-handed Folds andle able h t s u j d a

Wooden Balance Bike £60.00 Your child can learn to balance, steer and coordinate before moving up to pedals.

Prices shown are a guide only; special fabrics and features may incur an extra charge

38

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION

BEE IN THE CITY The Bugaboo Bee is a smart, urban pushchair, popular among Yummy Mummies and Celebrities alike.

With lots of great colours and accessories, you can personalise your Bugabbo Bee to reflect your style.

IT'S A BREEZE

The Bugaboo Bee is the ideal urban pushchair with its compact, lightweight chassis and easy-to-steer wheels.

Because it’s small, it fits easily into even the smallest car boot and it's a breeze hopping on and off the bus or tube.

BEE IN THE CITY

The Bugaboo Bee has created a storm on social networks, with lovers of the brand posting images of themselves and their baby in the pushchair when out and about.

#beeinthecity

Be a part about our Bee in the City online community by visiting http://beeinthecity.bugaboo.com/ Just use the hashtag #beeinthecity when you post pictures or comments on Twitter or Instagram and start sharing your Bugaboo Bee moments with mums and dads from all over the world. You´ll find movies of inspiring parents in Japan, Barcelona, Berlin, Amsterdam and LA who tell their stories and show us their daily urban adventures with the Bugaboo Bee.

http://beeinthecity.bugaboo.com/

ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION

More than a good night's sleep Puckababy creates peaceful nights, a good sleep routine and a good quality of life for new parents, their precious babies and tiny toddlers.

better when they feel secure, warm and comfortable.

Like you, Puckababy wants only the best for your child.

PEACEFUL SLEEP

Sandra Bottram-de Louwere created the Puckababy range in The Netherlands in 2007 to help baby ‘Puck’ sleep better.

This baby cried a lot, rarely slept and her parents desperately tried everything to comfort her. They were advised to start swaddling but did not like the idea of very tight wrapping…

Sandra understood the benefits of swaddling but also noticed that many other parents had doubts about this age-old practice.

To help parents cope with sleepless nights, Sandra created ‘The Puckababy Original’.

In today’s society there is so much going on for parents and their little ones. People’s schedules are overloaded and we need to find time to recharge our batteries. It becomes more and more difficult to find rest in this fast-paced world, even for babies.

Puckababy offers practical lifestyle solutions to help promote restful sleep.

Peaceful sleep is extremely important for the healthy development of your child, so our sleeping products are designed for babies and toddlers who sleep

THE PUCKABABY SOLUTION

A sleeping bag, based on the concept of swaddling but very different. Easy to use, not too tight or warm, great looks and that actually works!

THE PUCKABABY RANGE Puckababy is like a lovely cocoon around the baby; they feel warm and protected and it reminds them of the closeness they felt inside their mummy’s tummy. Due to the great effect for babies, Puckababy became popular and parents asked for more. Different sizes and models of sleeping bags and baby wrappers were created to suit newborns and older babies and toddlers. With a headquarters in The Netherlands, Puckababy is rapidly expanding and is bringing joy and quality of life to parents all over the world.

www.puckababy.co.uk

xxxxxxxxx seasonalxxxxx style

bAby it's cold outside!

Jack wears

Owl print cotton and cashmere all-in-one, ÂŁ105, 3-18m, Stella McCartney Kids.

Gorgeous, cosy clothes for babies and kids Photographer Richard Ecclestone, Stylist Becky Johns. Shot on location www.madaboutthehouse.com www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings little

41 AA

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Elsie wears

Fairisle cotton knit all-in-one, £18, 0-18m, John Lewis, Timble Soft Bear £20, Silver Cross.

Grace wears Pink cable cotton knit dress. £85, 9-24m, Ralph Lauren.

42 little

darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

seasonal style

I want Santa to bring me a pony, a Dior handbag and some sweets.

Oliver, Caleb, Emily, Alice, Elsie and Noah wear Oliver: cotton fairisle cardigan, £105, tweed trousers and cotton shirt set, £110, 0-9m, all Ralph Lauren. Caleb: zip-up chunky knit cardigan, £128.95, 4-14y, Scotch Shrunk, monster hat, £22.99, Barts. Emily: burgundy pleated dress, £30, 0-4y, Mamas & Papas, hair flower, £9 from a selection from Little h @ Ruth Elizabeth Design, Ruby Dress Up Doll £35, Silver Cross. Alice: faux fur gilet, £42, polka dot cord dress, £42, both 2-10y, Their Nibs, hair flower as before, Timble Soft Bear £20, Silver Cross. Noah: furry monster hat, £22.99, Barts, yellow organic cotton top, £32, military style jacket, £115, both 2-14y, Stella McCartney Kids.

Elsie: silk velvet dress, £115, 12m-2y, Rachel Riley, fairisle cardigan with frill detail, £85, 9-24m, Ralph Lauren.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

43

Caleb wears

Knitted monster hat, £22.99, Barts, zip-up chunky knit cardigan, £128.95, 4-14y, Scotch Shrunk.

Needlecord trousers,3-14y, £93. Shoes, Bonpoint.

Please let me find a dolly in my stocking

little

Noah wears

Furry monster hat, £22.99, Barts, yellow organic cotton top, £32, military style jacket, £115, grey skinny jeans, £60, all 2-14y, Stella McCartney Kids. Suede desert boots, £38, sizes 8-2, Clarks.

44 little

darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

seasonal style The kids wear

Left to right, Noah: chunky wool knit jumper, £99, grey skinny jeans, £60, both 2-14y, Stella McCartney Kids. Bandana, models own. Oliver: Cotton shirt and tweed trouser set, £110, 0-9m, Ralph Lauren, flat cap £10, 0-4y, Mamas & Papas. Alice: Lambswool pony sweater, £54.95, xs-xl, Barbour, pink tutu, from £24, 12m-6y, Ted Baker at Debenhams, ballet pumps, £15, sizes 10-5, John Lewis, hair flower as before, Bea Changing Bag, £239 Sugarjack. Emily: burgundy pleated dress, £30, 0-4y, Mamas & Papas, hair flower as before, Classic Wooden Push Along with Blocks £65, Silver Cross.

I think I've been a good boy this year..

Alice wears

Smocked cotton dress, from £296, 2-6y, Bonpoint.

Tights, £4 and ballet pumps, £15, sizes 10-5, both John Lewis.

Caleb wears

Cotton velvet jacket, £139, 4-8y, Caramel Baby & Child.

Cotton pinstripe shirt, £48, 2-10y, Their Nibs. Bow tie, £14.99, Tie Rack, Needlecord trousers, £93, 3-14y. Shoes, Bonpoint, Bear, as before, glasses from a selection by Ralph Lauren.

Freddie wears

Check jacket, £242, 3-14y, Bonpoint. Cotton shirt, £53, 4-14y, Scotch Shrunk. Burgundy cardigan, £17.95, XS-XXL, Gap. Cord trousers, £76, 3-12y, Caramel Baby & Child. Suede desert boots, £38, sizes 8-2, Clarks.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

45

UNBEATABLE 2014 OFFERS!

Truly dedicated to finding you the Truly dedicated to perfect family holiday Truly dedicated to finding you the finding you the perfect family holiday perfect family holiday

UNBEATABLE 2014 OFFERS!

Experts at the extras!

• resorts with crèche • kids clubs • reserve babysitting • baby equipment • children’s meals resorts with crèche • 5kids clubs star Luxury Hotels Worldwide • • All with Creche or Kid’s Club • reserve babysitting • Baby sitting and baby equipment • baby equipment Ask an expertbycall: • children’s meals • ALL inspected our01279 expert 63600 team

Experts at the the extras! extras!

Experts at

Ask an expert call: 01279 639600 Ask an expert call: 01279 63600 ABTA BONDED

www.familyholidayscompany.com

www.familyholidayscompany.com ABTA BONDED

seasonal style

for me? oh freddie you shouldn't have!

Alice wears

Outfits as before. London tree decorations available at Selfridge's.

Emily wears As before.

Emily wears

Dress ÂŁ49, 2-10 years by Their Nibs. Tights and ballet pumps as before.

Freddy wears As before, Bear as before.

With thanks to C.H Lim & Associates Ophthalmic Opticians, Crouch End London N8

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

47

choosing childcare

THE USUAL SUSPECTS? who to choose

Choosing care for your baby is a difficult and time-consuming process.

And so it should be – after all, you’re choosing the person who will act as 'you' when you’re not around.

First, decide your requirements in a chat with your partner. Do you need help all the time – perhaps if you’re going back to work or have a full schedule? A livein Nanny or au pair might suit. Or would part time help be more suitable, so you could perhaps consider a Nanny share? If you only need occasional help, a family member or Childminder might be the best option.

NORLAND NANNY

nanny

Who: Kind, friendly and reliable, everyone imagines Mary Poppins (or Royal Nannies) when they think of this traditional carer.

But today's Nannies are as likely to have a black belt in Karate as they are

in nappy changing.

How to Find: Register with a couple of good agencies. There will be a fee but they will carry out all background checks and save you time.

If you decide to go it alone, carry out the same checks an agency would and talk to the nanny’s

referees - don’t rely on reading her CV. Benefits: Most will be highly trained with qualifications from a Nanny agency and possibly also in first aid and self defence.

Meet candidates and discuss details before employing.

A spokesperson for Norland Nannies

says, "Explain your approach to parenting and the boundaries you set for your children.

Consistency is very important for children, so it's vital they adopt the same approach as you would do."

Dos and Don'ts: Your nanny isn't a cleaner - they

look after the kids' clothes and perhaps rooms but she's not there to clean your loo. Treat her as one of the family but ensure you all get your own space.

Set ground rules on issues like smoking, having friends round, if you'd like a confidentiality agreement, driving

NURSERY WORKER GRANNY

AU PAIR CHILDMINDER

48little AA littledarlings darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com little darlings

91

Invites you to:

The Baby Sleep Event December 19th at

Meet with the founder of Puckababy, our baby sleep expert, and other mums for an entertaining afternoon.

Between 10am - 5pm: Hannah Love presentation Baby and mother massage

LI

You and your baby photography Goodie bag & FREE ENTRANCE

MITED

AV

IT

Y

r e t s i g Re AILABI

→ with holly.thacker@chelseamagazines.com

L

The Hurlingham Club Ranelagh Gardens, London

in partnership with

choosing childcare your car and so on. The Norland spokesperson concludes, "All our nannies undertake training and complete a qualification in Early Years, for knowledge of children’s development and wellbeing. Nannies should care for your childrens' nutritional, emotional and physical needs. They also need an up to date DBS (see page 53) and a First Aid certificate." If you don't need a Nanny all the time, you might consider sharing one with another family. Be sure you agree with the other employers what you both need. You would not usually offer them accomodation.

Agree to a decent wage with your agency and expect to pay annual increases.

Au pair

Who: An au pair is typically a young woman from abroad who wishes to work in the UK by living with a family and taking care of the children as well as household chores. They may not have childcare qualifications and are

might be able to help you out with childcare, this might be the perfect solution for you.

How to find: No need to look far, this may be your own mother or your partner's - or perhaps an aunt or cousin.

Benefits: This arrangement works best if finances are tight, as Grannies tend not to charge and welcome the opportunity to spend plenty of time with their grandchildren.

Dos and Don'ts: There can be problems and misunderstandings, though these can usually be avoided by talking things through thoroughly and reassessing everything regularly. Don't take your family members for granted and be sure that you drop off and collect the children when you have said you will. Offer compensation for out-of-pocket expenses or have an agreement that you provide a float for things bought for the children. What can cause most disagreement is different styles of parenting - for example, disciplining children, allowing them to watch the TV and so on, so make sure you all talk this through.

diet and its door entry policy. You'll want to be able to walk away confident in the knowledge that your child will be well fed, cared for in a nurturing manner and that only authorised people are allowed in and out. The staff should be well qualified for their roles and with the adequate background checks and training needed to look after a group of children of mixed ages and needs.

childminder

Who: Childminders look after a group of children in their own home. They need to have background checks and certain qualifications and need to be registered with their local authority. Many have years of experience in loking after children and some women choose to do this when their own children are older.

How to find: The NICMA, the Childminders' Association, can offer tips and advice to help you choose. When you're looking for a childminder, ask around among friends or

PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

Consistency is important for children essentially untrained but most have a genuine desire not just to live and work in the UK but to look after children.

How to find: You can find them through online agencies or word of mouth. Try to meet them before offering them a job, even if it's just a Skype chat. Find one via the British au pair Agencies' Association, www.bapaa.org.uk. You can also check on the Government's website about laws on employing an au pair www.gov. uk/au-pairs-employment-law.

Benefits: You have continuity, as she will live in your home and be there to care for the children when you can't be. They are ideal if your work schedules are erratic - for example if you work part-time or have a busy social schedule that means you are often out at bath and bed time.

Dos and Don'ts: An au pair should be willing to look after the children, shop, cook and clean but you should also ensure that you pay the going rate and that they have some free time.

They work out cheaper than a Nanny but may not have the same skills; for example, they may not have first aid training or be able to drive.

They do bring a different language and culture into your home and if you want your kids to be bilingual, it's great if she speaks to them in her own language.

granny

Who: If you live near your or your partner's parents, or have another relative nearby who

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

nursery WORKER

Who: A nursery is a formal centre for care of children from as young as six months. It employs qualified carers.

How to find: When looking at nurseries, there are several things to consider. Is it on your way to work so you save time traveling? Does the nursery look clean, well cared for and is it well equipped? Are there adequate facilities for your child to play and rest? And does it offer a properly balanced nutritious menu suitable for the ages of the children it takes in? It helps if there are children there of a similar age to yours. Search a list of nurseries near you at the Government's website, www.education. gov.uk. You can also check what's near you by using the website of the National Day Nursery Association, www.ndna.org.uk. They have a fact sheet which can help you choose where your baby is going to spend her time and an accreditation scheme called e-Quality Counts.

Ask if your nursery is signed up to this.

Benefits: For families who work nine to five, full-time childcare can prove expensive and may not be flexible enough for you. A nursery may offer a solution, provided you ensure you choose one that suits your views, the age of your child and your pocket.

Dos and Don'ts: Once you have found somewhere you like the look of, go for a visit and ask about the nursery's policy on discipline,

especially if you know people with children at your local school - you may find a family who have used a great childminder but whose children are now old enough not to need collecting from school or nursery.

Benefits: The care is of high quality but is flexible and affordable, with families being able to use vouchers for part of the payment. Children receive individual attention in a home-from-home setting.

Dos and Don'ts: As with anyone looking after your child, ensure they have background checks and that their home is clean and tidy and well equipped with safety items - door locks, stair gates and so on. Childminders must look after no more than six children under eight and no more than three of those can be younger than five. This must include the childminder's own children. They must have public liability insurance. Most childminders will work between 8am and 6pm, although you might be able to negotiate other hours. little darlings

51

Essential reading for the parents of children aged four to 12

Urban Ascent Indoor Rock Climbing Birthday Parties

prep edition autu mn 2012  www.ind ependentschoolparent.co m

Come and celebrate your birthday with us in a brand new exciting way. We cater for children from 5 years old and up, for groups as large as 16. Our highly experienced, fully qualified instructors will provide an adrenaline fuelled fun hour of birthday madness which is guaranteed to keep your little darlings entertained. You also have exclusive use of our viewing gallery to keep the party going for 45 minutes following the party.

MM TION SU PREP EDI

PLUS...

INSIDE...

m hoolparent.co ependentsc  www.ind ER 2013

prep edition autumn 2012  www.independentschoolparent.com

P 71

PLUS...

P 49

t Commen: White lies tell the fibs we

School heroes Meet the matron

P 82 lph

education

P79

Win a pair of Raleigh bikes worth £400!

Sir Ranu Fiennes l days My schoo

education

a is for apple! aHis offr apple! atsfo

P 49

School heroes Meet the matron

P79

Win a pair of Raleigh bikes worth £400!

Making reading

and writing fun er!ing Makin mad g re um todswr an iting fun in focuS

How to choose a senior school

For pricing, availability and any other additional information please contact us on; T: 0207 751 0913 E: info@urbanascent.co.uk

www.urbanascent.co.uk

MAKES LEARNING MAKES MAKES TO SWIM LEARNING LEARNING FUN!

TO TOSWIM SWIM FUN! FUN!

tRavel

in focuS

S IN FOCU

g Preparinild for your ch hool senior sc ITION COMPET

ry Win a luxu ay lid family ho y an in Tusc 3_v2[5].indd

001_ISP_041

Works for all ages and Works Works abilities for all for all ages and ages and abilities abilities

Holiday joy: skiing for all the family

How to choose a senior school tRavel

Holiday joy: skiing for all the family

...

MORE ON

Tutoring are Shakespe ols on scho  Lond





26/4/13

17:17:33

1

Keeping you in touch with the issues that really matter to your children. Full of topical advice from teachers and parents alike.

Read the current issue FREE 8 www.independentschoolparent.com/free ) 0207 349 3700

www.swimfin.co.uk www.swimfin.co.uk www.swimfin.co.uk 52

Look out for the First Eleven Guide to Independent Schools, published twice a year, in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents or go to www.chelseamagazines.com/ independent-school-parent to order your copy direct.

www.swimfin.co.uk little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

choosing childcare

WHAT dOes IT cOsT? What should you expect to pay for good quality childcare?

We give the low-down and help you find the perfect person

HOW TO PAY FOR IT

All UK parents are entitled to Child Benefit, though you may choose not to claim if you or your partner earns over £50K per year. This gives you £20.30 for the first child and £13.40 for each subsequent child. You may also claim staff childcare vouchers from your employer. A proportion of this is tax and National Insurance free. Look online at www.gov.uk/child-benefit. You can also use childcare vouchers to pay for a registered Childminder. They can be used to pay for children right up to the age of 15.

free childcare

All three and four-year-olds are entitled to 15 hours of free early education for 38 weeks of the year until they reach school age. The Government has also announced that some two-year-olds can access free care in certain circumstances.

WHeRe TO FINd INFORMATION

You could get extra tax credits to help pay some of your childcare costs while you’re working. This could be up to £122.50 a week for one child and up to £210 a week for two or more children.

You can’t claim all of the costs and how much you get depends on things such as your income. Look at www.gov.uk/ childcare-tax-credits.

safety check

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) helps employers make safer recruitment decisions and prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable groups, including children. It replaces the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). Check it at www.gov. uk/disclosure-barring-service-check.

What does it cost?

NANNY £7-£15 per hour depending on experience AU PAIR £80-100 per week for pocket money and extras GRANNY Usually free though expect to pay expenses CHILDMINDER £3.50-£6 per hour NURSERY £800-£1300 per month for a full time place.

Information courtesy of www.childcare.co.uk

All parents can claim child beneFIts - check your entitlement Where to find more help Norland Nannies WWW.NORLAND.CO.UK Royal Nannies WWW.ROYALNANNIES.CO.UK London Nanny company WWW.LONDONNANNYCOMPANY.CO.UK British au pair agencies' association WWW.BAPAA.ORG.UK National day Nursery association WWW.NDNA.ORG.UK professional association for childcare years WWW.PACEY.ORG.UK Ofsted Registered childminders WWW.OFSTED.GOV.UK

HOW TO FIND A CHILDMINDER

WWW.GOV.UK/FIND-REGISTERED-CHILDMINDER

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little littledarlings darlings

53 AA

a nd t h e

Fixed

Fitted

Fastened

Moving from cot to a ‘big’ bed can be an exciting new adventure for toddlers.

What they don’t usually like so much is the sudden cold feeling when they kick the covers off at night or even fall out of the bed! It’s why Gro-to-bed securely zips the duvet and the pillow to the bottom sheet. No more covers falling off means your child is much more likely to stay warm and asleep through the night.

gro.co.uk

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

54

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

NEWBORN ESSENTIALS

BABY BY NUMBERS

Don’t panic! You really don’t need loads of gear for a new baby. And while we’re not suggesting you put your baby to sleep in a drawer and wrap them in old sheets, you don’t need to break the bank or equip your home like a professional nursery. Buy the basics – and save some cash for gorgeous clothes and toys! ms in all ite e v a e l and Tip: aging k c a p their ts. receip keep

You will need...

2 6

a gift, Tip: if offered rs ask for vouche instead

Plenty

• Cot or cot bed plus correct size mattress, sheets and blankets or a sleeping bag • Car seat • Pushchair • Coat and hat or snow suit • Changing mat

• Long sleeved vests or tops to wear under the sleeping bag • Cardigans/ jackets

• Changing bag with travel change mat • Brush or comb • Nail clippers or baby nail scissors • Breast pump • Sterilising equipment • Monitor

• Hat, mittens and bootees • Nursing bras

• Baby Grows • Short-sleeved vests • Socks • Bibs • Milk storage pots

• Nappies • Cotton wool balls or baby wipes • Nursing pads

• Breast pads • Muslins, towels and flannels

Tip: ask friends for second hand clothes.

They will have been worn such a short time.

Handy, though not essential Moses basket or crib Baby bath or bath insert Shawl Sling or carrier Bouncy chair Bath and room thermometer Nappy disposal bin

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Baby Bargains

Second Hand

Help and Advice

Some items used on a daily basis are cheaper if you buy in bulk.

Look for multi-packs of baby grows, vests and cotton wool, and watch out for three-for-two offers from retailers. Some shops like Boots give you points for all baby purchases - use to buy more!

Do not use second hand: a mattress – every baby should have a new one (The Lullaby Trust recommends a firm, waterproof mattress) or a car seat. However, if it’s from a close friend and has never been in a crash, it’s fine.

Wash the covers before using.

The Lulluaby Trust offers lots of help and advice on how to keep your baby safe while he’s sleeping. visit www.lullabytrust.org.uk for more details.

little darlings

55

Little Darlings_129x99_Quarter page 06/09/2013 13:42 Page 1

gorgeous gifts online

100% cashmere baby blanket - the perfect Christening gift Special offer ÂŁ99 with code: CHELSEABABY

www.plumandivory.co.uk info@plumandivory.co.uk telephone +44(0)20 8392 0632

ÂŽ

56

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION

Luscious

Strawberry THE GORGEOUS, SOFT STRAWBERRY Featuring beautiful soft touch fabrics, the iCandy Strawberry boasts a range of new features which really make it stand out from the pushchair crowd.

MEMORY SYSTEM With unique patent pending features include a one hand 'Step and Stand FoldTM' action and the unique iCandy MemoryTM system - this is an auto alignment seat unit, which clicks back in to the last-used position when unfolded, meaning it's always in your baby's favourite position. The reclinable, parent- or world-facing seat unit features a zip pocket underneath the leg rest allowing you to store items out of sight.

Pop on the carrycot (colour featured; Pomegranate) for newborns.

It offers the perfect sleep position for tiny spines and a cosy place to sleep.

ADD SOME COLOUR Both the seat unit and the carrycot come in stylish black with the option to add one of a range of original, gorgeous coloured 'Flavour Packs.' Choose from a soft touch, textured fabric or the stunning 'Chilled' Flavour Pack, which is a lighter weight fabric with a smoother finish. The seat unit Flavour Pack comprises of an interchangeable hood, the harness pads and a luxurious seat liner. while the carrycot Flavour Pack comprises an interchangeable hood and apron. Available in four delicious flavours; Assam, Earl Grey, Pomegranate and Elderberry.

ON THE MOVE With the addition of the infant carrier car seat adaptors (sold separately), the iCandy Strawberry is suitable for use with the Maxi-Cosi Cabrio or Pebble, and the BeSafe iZiGo car seats.

www.icandyworld.com

With the seat unit in place (colour featured; Earl Grey), facing you or the world, you're ready to go, baby!

SI O C I MAX E PEBBL

£165

res: featu ded, good Best y pad tion Deepl ct protec a p m d i se an le side ng ba d Rocki djust han y a an o m t n y o eas used e b i ha r Can pushc f o s brand

BRITAX PLUS SAFEFIX

£269.99

tures: Best fea h Isofix Used wit e ne of th o base, is s ar seat safest c adjust t Easy o ess and harn headrest line Four rec s n positio

KIDDY EVOLUTION PRO

£99.99

COSATTO ZOOMI

Best features: One-touch recline for tiny babies Different size seat inlays - grows with baby Create a Travel System with Click n Move frame

£110

car seats de-mystified Many of us have visited car seat retailers only to come away confused at the choice on display and by the rules regarding which car seat you should use and when. Sally J Hall leads you gently through the car seat minefield to help you choose what's best for you, your baby and your car.

WEIGHT OR LENGTH; WHEN TWO LAWS COLLIDE. Up until this summer, all car seats were classified according to the lower and upper weight of the child they were suitable for. Now, a new piece of legislation has come in, meaning some car seats are now defined by the length of your child. The

58

little darlings

two systems will run side by side for a few years but it's worth knowing if you're just about to buy a new car seat. The current regulations are known by their "Group" number (see right). The new seats are called I-Size and are always used with the Isofix car seat fitting system.

ISOFIX Developed by car seat manufacturers Britax and car companies several years ago, this is a system where all new cars must have fitting points installed into the chassis. The car seat has prongs which connect with this, making fitting both easy and secure. Some also have a foot prop or top belt as added security.

Best fe atures: Will fi t your baby from 9k g up to 1 2 years Adjusta ble hea drest and rev ersible seat co comfy p ver added a rmrests tummy a , nd ches t pads

BELT FITTED

Many car seats are fitted using your car's threepoint seat belts. There are routing points on the car seat which are clearly (usually colour) coded and make it easy to swap the seat to different positions or cars. Always check you have fitted it correctly each time you put it in the car.

BASE FITTING Some seats come with a base that is fitted into your car, either with the seatbelt or via Isofix. The base stays in and the seat can be clicked on or off.

KEEP YOUR BABY REARWARD FACING Some belt or Isofix seats and all new I-Size www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

car seats

GRACO JUNIOR MAXI

CARSEATS

ÂŁ43.99

Keep ba by safe

Best fe atures: Two ret ractabl e cup hol ders Height adjusta ble armrest s and h eadrest Colour coded s eat belt gu ides

babies

Group 0+ suitable from birth to 13kg or 29lbs

This kind of car seat is great for a number of reasons. It is small and cosy, so a newborn does not look swamped. It is easy to carry during the early months and many fit onto pushchairs (creating a Travel System), meaning you don't have to wake your baby when swapping from car to pushchair.

Look for one that includes a newborn insert or head hugger to keep tiny babies' heads in the correct position.

toddlers

Group 1 Suitable from 9-18kg or 20-40lbs

MAXI-COSI RODIFIX

Once your baby is a bit big to carry in a first stage car seat, choose a model that will take you from around one year to three or four years old. Some work right from birth to this age (called Group 0+ and 1), which will save you money.

Look for one with several recline positions, good side impact protection, cosy paddin and washable covers.

ÂŁ180

Best features: rs Isofix connecto car e th secure it in ows gr st re The back d il ch ur with yo Airprotect side gy impact technolo

seats are designed to be rearward facing until your child is around four years old. This is a much safer way for your baby to travel and helps prevent neck injuries in the event of a crash.

BOOSTERS It is now considered unsafe to put a child in a booster that has no back or sides, as they have no side impact protection and can slip out of the seat belt if they fall asleep. Choose a Group 2,3 car seat (also called a high-back booster) instead.

THE LAW Children up to 12 years old or 135cm tall must be in an appropriate child car restraint. www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

DO

Check you've correctly adjusted straps each time you travel. They should be snug so you can fit two fingers between the strap & your child.

Keep an eye on your child's weight or length; move up to the next seat when they reach the upper limit.

Before buying, check the seat fits your car.

DON'T

Leave a newborn too long in a car seat. They should lie flat as long as possible.

Put your child in a big, puffy coat or snowsuit.

The straps will be less effective and they may overheat.

kids

Group 2 and 3 Suitable from 1536kg or 33-79lbs

Once your children are a bit older, they can sit in a high-backed booster seat, which is much safer then booster cushions alone. Look for one that has good head and neck protection, is lightweight if you need to swap it between cars and is well padded.

NEED MORE ADVICE?

WWW.CHILDCARSEATS.ORG.UK little darlings

59

cars

baby, you can drive my car Hot Hatch, Luxury Saloon, All Terrain or People Carrier?

Check out some of the best family cars.

60 60

The People Carrier: Toyota Verso (from £16,995)

The Luxury Saloon: Audi A3 Sportback (from £18,900)

Large families will love this, especially if they often drive extra kids. It has a large interior with flexible seating (two seats front, three middle and two rear) and scores well on safety and comfort.

Choose from a 1.6 or 1.8-litre petrol engine or 2.0-litre diesel. It has lower CO2 emissions and better fuel efficiency than previous models; the diesel does 57.6 mpg. Though the two rear seats are small, they're fine for kids. With 32 configurations, you can flatten all rear seats to make room for luggage, shopping and pushchairs. It has a built-in coolbox, cup holders and drop-down play / snack trays.

With a lightweight body, updated styling and a wealth of luxury materials inside, the A3 has some nice extras like a pop-up multimedia screen.

Engines come in 1.4 or 1.8 petrol and 1.6 or 2.0 diesel and there’s a six or seven speed gearbox.

The five-door Sportback has a higher price than its three-door cousin but has a longer wheelbase (which equates to extra legroom) and an extra 15 litres of boot capacity. It comes with air-conditioning, iPod dock and Bluetooth as standard and controls are well placed and easy to use.

The Off-Road Star: Range Rover SUV (from £71,300)

The Hot Hatch: Volkswagen Golf GTI Hatchback (from £25,500)

A bit of a wolf in peacock’s clothing, this is a great all-round vehicle for town or rugged countryside and is also luxurious and comfortable.

With a high-quality interior, it's quiet for such a large car, especially one with a supercharged V8 engine. It comes with a high price tag but has plenty to justify the expense. The use of lightweight aluminium means that it's 400kg lighter than the previous model and it has lower emmissions and better fuel economy, too. It’s still one of the best offroad vehicles around, so if weekends up mountains are your thing, this will take you every mile of the way.

For combining practicality, style and substance you have to go a long way to beat the Golf. As good for around town as it is for longer journeys, this is great if you have one or two kids. The additional benefits of upgrading to the GTI model include power and comfort. With a 217bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged engine it's powerful and the 18-inch alloy wheels, chunky bumpers and sporty trim save it from blandness.

It has tartan seats, a sporty steering wheel and a luxurious interior made from quality materials.

Running costs are low, especially if you choose the diesel version. There’s enough room for five adults, so a couple of kids plus buggies are no problem.

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

advertisement promotion

look how much i've grown, mummy!

The Two-Way Pearl comes in four colours to suit your car £375 including 2wayFix Base

New car seat laws have arrived and we'll need to know all about them. Maxi-Cosi helps give you all you need to know about the new i-Size regulations and how you can keep your little one safer, for longer I-Size refers to new car seat legislation which increases safety levels for children in cars. It means that babies will stay in the much safer rearward facing position for longer and it uses Isofix which has less chances of being installed incorrectly.

The new legislation was introduced this summer, though the current legislation will remain in effect for all current belt and IsoFix child seats. is it needed?

Car accidents are still the leading cause of child deaths. In Europe each

week, 10 children are killed on the road and around 1150 children are injured.

The new legislation makes rearward facing travelling mandatory up to 15 months old when your baby is in an i-Size car seat. This ensures better protection at higher forces in the case of frontal and side collisions and better protection for your baby's head and neck.

I-Size also means that instead of using confusing weight guidelines to decide when your baby needs to move to a bigger car seat, it uses your child's length. This makes it much simpler for parents and less confusing. And because incorrectly fitting car seats can kill, i-Size demands the use of IsoFix, the safest way to fit a car seat into your car.

the perfect i-size car seat from six months to four years (67-105cm)- the maxi-Cosi 2waypearl the 5 key points of i-size 1. Improved protection at higher forces and front impact and much better protection for your child's head and neck.

2. Rearward facing travel is mandatory for children up to 15 months old in i-size car seats 3. i-Size also promotes ISOFIX, which has less chance of being incorrectly fitted than belted car seats 4. i-Size car seats will fit all i-Size cars and almost all cars with IsoFix anchors i-size cars and car seats can be recognised with this logo

• With its smart looks, multi-recline option and compact design, the 2wayPearl offers everything your child needs to relax and enjoy the view.

• The 2wayPearl is used with the 2wayFix Base that also fits the the Pebble baby car seat, taking you right from birth to around four years.

• Features interactive light and sound feedback on the 2wayFix Base to confirm you have fitted it correctly every time.

• The innovative easy-in harness stays open to easily get your child

5. Length/Height of child classification (instead of weight) makes choosing the right car seat for your child easier

in and out in seconds.

position for longer

• Offering optimum Isofix safety and ease of use, The Pearl is suitable from change to 6 months to 4 years approximately.

• Can be turned around to face forward any time from 15 months up until 105cm (approx. 4 years) if preferred

• Easy to adjust safety harness and headrest height.

• Improved head and neck protection by travelling rearward facing for longer, and meets the higher crash testing requirements of the i-Size legislation

• Available in four stunning colours.

• i-Size compliant - must be used in combination with the Maxi-Cosi 2wayFix Base • Rearward facing travelling option from 67-105cm (approx. 6 months to 4 years) allows older children to travel in the safer rearward facing

• Seat can recline to 4 different positions both forward and rearward facing • Changes from rearward to forward facing at the push of a button

maxi-Cosi.co.uk/i-size

Support the Best of British

de e gs 2/14 % co iv in 28/0 10 nt lus arl ends ou xc D ffer sc e tle O di an Lit 10). as to LD r ( fe s of der a re

Luxury Baby Clothing & Gifts Cocobaci is your online boutique specialising in beautiful clothing and unique gifts for babies and children 0-2 years old.

To shop this wonderful collection of British Brands featured here visit www.cocobaci.com

Baby Gift Shopping made effortless...

Mood Super Hero Canvas Liam Brazier

Vitra Hang It All-Special Edition Charles & Ray Eames

Brokis Memory Lights Boris Klimek

Amorim Rufo Drums Studio Pedreta

Magis Dalmatian Puppy Eero Aarnio

www.miniobjectsofdesire.com The best designs in children’s products from around the world, collated under one brand.

10% Discount with Product Code MOOD-LD

62

little darlings

HAY Pinocchio Rug

HAY Little Nobody Chair Komplot Design

Ferm Living Little Geometry Cushion

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

INTERIORS GLASS PENDANTS FROM ROTHSCHILD AND BICKERS PENDANTS Made to order £295-450

These traditional free-blown glass bespoke pendants come in almost any colour you can imagine. Choose traditional pink or blue or go for a bright jewel colour to brighten your child's room.

FURNITURE THAT LASTS A LIFETIME

A timeless cotbed that transforms into a junior bed and then a sofa is an excellent investment and will look fantastic in your child's room long after they have grown out of a cot. The Dorchester Cotbed from Silver Cross costs £450.

NEW COLOURS FROM FARROW & BALL

The best-known paint company in town has launched nine new colours. Cue new dinner party conversations about Nancy's Blushes versus Stiffkey blue.

From £34.50

HOME

Inspiring ideas for children's rooms and your home

By Interiors Editor Kate Watson-Smyth

KATE WRITES FOR THE TELEGRAPH AND BLOGS ABOUT HER FAVOURITE PIECES AT WWW.MADABOUTTHEHOUSE.COM

YELLOWCAKE

ATELIER FROM FIRED EARTH

Now in its 30th year, Fired Earth has many tiles to choose from if you're updating the bathroom.

The Atelier range is fun for a kids' bathroom and will create a soothing environment they'll love to spend hours in.

From £3.32. www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

ABBEYWOOD CABINET £599

STIFFKEY BLUE

NANCY'S BLUSHES

JAWBONE JAMBOX WIRELESS SPEAKER LEONHARD PFEIFER FOR JOHN LEWIS

Children's furniture doesn't have to be juvenile. The Abbeywood Cabinet is fun yet practical and will be a classic to grace your child's room as they grow up. £599

Stream music from your laptop or other device to this fun speaker. Available from the Apple Store, it will sit neatly on a shelf in your child's room. £129.95.

little darlings

63

Cure blank wall syndrome! Here’s £10* to get started...

Transforming your little one’s room is now child’s play with our re-positionable fabric Wall Stickers & Height Charts. Simply spend £30 or more, enter your coupon at checkout to get £10 off our Wall Decor!* • Choose from hundreds of design & colour options • Made from a fine weave fabric, not vinyl • Repositionable & removable • Our large range starts from only £7

YOUR £10 COUPON IS:

SAVE10LD *Minimum spend of £30. Not available with any other offer. Not exchangable for cash or gift cards.

Offer doesn’t include shipping costs. Ends 31/12/13.

The world’s cutest personalised products for kids.

Exclusively from tinyme.co.uk. Yippee!

TRUSTED & LOVED BY

OVER 200,000 000 CUSTOMERS SINCE 2006

INTERIORS

1

Change your rugs

A really quick and easy way to change the look and feel of a room, you can switch the rugs to fit the seasons. Try Persian rugs for Christmas; their rich berry shades are so welcoming.

Go paler in the Spring.

Swap the cushion covers

BETSY JARVIS Personalised Christmas Cushion £28

THE LETTEROOM Wooden Alphabet Candlestick £29.95

MULBERRY HOME Ancient Tartan Lambs Wool Blanket - 180x155 £166.50

SEASONAL SIX

Clever ways to make your home cosy for the holiday season

5

String up the lights

Fairy lights don't have to just be on the tree. As the nights draw in, a few twinkly lights around the top of a picture frame, mirror or your banister look really pretty and help create a party atmosphere.

LORNA SYSON Robin Cushion £44

Throw on a throw

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Christmas is the perfect time for big floral decorations.

Round up those pine cones the kids collected, spray them in festive colours and add a few branches of something evergreen.

ROWAN & WREN Thor Linen Outdoor-Indoor Lights £174

3

Not only is it the perfect accessory for cold evenings but a throw can also make a room look inviting.

Drape over the back of a sofa and settle down with a cup of tea, or something more fortified.

Bring in the Outdoors

FELTRUGS.CO.UK Felt rug measuring 1.8m x 2.55m £1600

2

This can change your décor in seconds. And, as it's Christmas, have a bit of fun with it and remember that you can always change them back as soon as you're bored.

4

ROWEN & WREN Zinc Oak Leaf Decoration £11

6

Light a candle

We're all mad about Scandinavian dramas; now the look is finding its way into our homes. It's all about creating hygge (loosely translates to cosiness) and candles are a great way to make a home feel holidayish.

The trouble with Christmas decorations is that they do rather get in the way and, if you're anything like me, come Boxing Day I feel that they all seem to look rather sad and deflated. Far better to change the décor a little to make your home feel super cosy and welcoming without needing to stick red and green ribbons all over everything. Here are some ideas to change your home to fit with the seasons. Best of all, you can remove them all when the spring sun starts to poke its head through the window. little darlings

65

% nt 0 10 10scouÂŁ10 ABY/13 i B 2 D er de 1/1 ov o co nds e om fer Pr Of THE ONLINE BOUTIQUE FOR LUXURY NURSERY FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES

C O N TAC T U S : 0 2 0 7 1 8 3 3 7 9 9 CUSTOMERSERVICES@CUSTARDANDCRUMBLE.CO.UK

www.custardandcr umble.co.uk S IT A

10% ord off fi ers rst sch quote ool

Family run online store for children specialising in wooden toys and furniture. Excellent products excellent customer service.

www.itsawoodenworld.com 66

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

INTERIORS

child's play Neat ideas for kids' rooms RaFa F BuNk Bed

Cool furniture for kids can be hard to find but this Dutch company has pulled it off. rafa-kids.com £1150

MOOMiN ThROW

The Moomin revival shows no sign of abating with this fabulous throw in fashionable monochrome. skandic-hus.co.uk £57

SeW heaRT FelT RugS

These fantastic rugs for kids, made from organic Tibetan wool in rural Nepal, come with matching slippers too! sewheartfelt.co.uk £55.95

hiCkORy diCkORy dOCk ClOCk

This beautifully simple clock almost needs a second look before you notice the mouse running down the hour hand. heatheralsteaddesign.com £38

BallOON lighTS

Who doesn't love balloons? These glass lights will never deflate or burst. notonthehighstreet.com £134

SNuRk aSTRONauT BeddiNg Made by Dutch firm, Snurk, this bedding is so cool it shouldn't just be for children. coxandcox.co.uk £60

storage

The key to a really successful child's bedroom (at least for the parents) is the storage. It doesn't matter how much you think you will stick to a carefully curated collection of beautiful wooden toys, the plastic tat will inveigle its way in and so you need to find a way of hiding it away easily. cox & cox Toys Storage Bag £20 BLUEWELL THEME BEDS Toy Skip Toy Box With Personalised Option £59 IKEA billy bookcase £45 PLANTABox Personalised Toy Crate £42

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

I've tried several ideas over the years and simplicity is the key here. This sturdy bag allows you to throw everything from the floor into instant storage at a moment's notice.

Buy clear plastic boxes, or rattan baskets tied with luggage labels. Divide into categories: making, dressing up etc. Keeping it simple encourages the child to tidy their own room.

The Ikea billy case filled with rattan or plastic boxes is great.

Set a rule that kids can have three boxes out at a time and must put one away before getting another one out.

Boxes on wheels that slide out from under the bed also work well. There are plenty of pretty wooden ones about but plastic has the advantage of being cheaper and lighter.

little darlings

67

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx baby names

BEST BABY NAMES

Traditional, celebrity-inspired or trendy, how do you choose the perfect name for your Little Darling?

As anyone who has already had a baby knows, finding the perfect name is something of a trial. Not only does it have to sound good with your last name (and make sure the initals don't spell anything embarassing) but you have to think ahead, too - if you choose a popular name, will there be hundreds of little Ameilas and Harrys by the time they get to school? Will people be able to spell and pronounce it? Do you mind if people shorten it? Here are some of the top names of 2013 to help you choose, plus some seasonal suggestions.

TOP NAMES OF 2013

Boys 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Girls

Harry Oliver Jack Charlie Jacob

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Amelia Olivia Jessica Emily Lily

popular names still at the top from 2012?

THE TOP 3 IN AMERICA

Boys For babies born across the pond

Girls

1. Noah 2. Oscar 3. Oliver

1. Ava 2. Freya 3. Ella

SEASONAL NAMES

winter babies

Jésus Holly/Hollie January Noel/Noelle

spring babies April Flora Mae/May Poppy

There are many names that reflect the seasons of the year.

MAKE ME FAMOUS!

Kate Middleton and Prince William: George Alexander Louis

Celebrities are reknowned for coming up with unusual choices.

Here's a round up of the latest celeb baby names.

Kim Kardashian and Kayne West: North West

Halle Berry and Oliver Martinez: Maceo Martinez

Michael Bublé and Lusiana Lopilato: Noah Bublé

Get more inspiration from this sweet book Baby Names by Laura Emerson, £9.99, Ryland Peters.

68little littledarlings darlings AA

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Receive the next issue

FREE!

ISSUE 1: WINTER 2013

l ittle

FREE

the magazine for london mums

UK delivery and returns

new!

up to 8 years

must-have

the hottest pushchairs & car seats in town

nursery slopes cool ski destinations

the fashion edit

christmas delivered!

GREAT GIFTS & SEASONAL ACTIVITIES LITTLEDARLINGSMAGAZINE.COM

+

best dressed bumps and babies

littledarlings_ad_261013.indd 1

26/10/13 23:09:23

£3.99

WHERE TO GIVE BIRTH IN LONDON? WHAT TO DRIVE: THE BEST FAMILY CARS COUGHS & SNEEZES: WINTER REMEDIES EDUCATING BABY: WHEN & HOW TO CHOOSE

Simply get in touch and we’ll send you the next issue of Little Darlings

COMPLETELY FREE 8 www.littledarlingsmagazine.com/free ) 0207 349 3700

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings 06/11/2013 16:03

69

xxxxxxxxx food forxxxxx kids

You want me to eat leaves?

Do tomatoes equal tantrums? Peas cause pouts? Meal times can become a battle ground, so use our tips to help your children enjoy a healthy diet - without the drama.

Avocadoes, mushrooms, Brussels sprouts, lettuce - as every parent knows, getting kids to eat certain foods can be a challenge. But how do you encourage your children to have a healthy relationship with food and to try new flavours?

We’ve all known the boy who wouldn’t eat anything except chicken nuggets for months, the girl obsessed with prawns and the many, many children who wouldn’t go near anything green. Meal times can become a huge battle if you’re not careful and instead of enjoying the variety of foods they are presented with, children can use food to manipulate their parents and misbehave.

We all worry about a balanced diet. “There is so much contradictory information in the media about nutrition that it’s no wonder we’re all a little stressed and confused about what to feed our families. It seems almost each week we’re told something else we should be eating more of, or should cut down on,” says Registered Nutritionist and founder of Happy Eaters, Sam Perkins. “Some of these reports are valuable, especially when related to disease prevention or treating medical conditions.

However it does, in my opinion, mean we sometimes get ‘bogged down’ with irrelevant advice and can neglect more basic food issues.”

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

71

Organised?

Name Labels forRecovery School, Preschool & Childcare For Pregnancy, & Beyond – Beautiful Range of Maternity Support Tights

Soothes & Prevents

Varicose Veins & Vulva, Thrombosis, Leg Fatigue, Swollen Ankles

Features

Baby Grow Pouch, Comfort Waistband, Cotton Gusset, Textured Massaging Soles

Supports Sogoodnight makes Classic English childrens nightwear with a fresh contemporary edge, for girls and boys aged 0-12 yrs. Our production runs are small and are made in the UK. Order online www.sogoodnight.com

Hips, Leg Veins, Lower Back, Buttocks & Thighs, Effectively Blood easy Flowthis year Make “BackAids to School” with name labels that will help kids take

No Expectant Mum better care of their belongings and make Can Do Without Them! you feel very organised.

01353 624624 Order online at mynamelabel.co.uk or phone 0870 8507897 www.pebbleuk.com

LONDON

Luxury leather changing bags

Treat yourself or a loved one this Christmas www.linandleo.com 72

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

xxxxxxxxx food forxxxxx kids

MIX IT UP

With the press bombarding us with information about wonder foods that will cure all ills on the one hand, and horror stories about saturated fat, sugar and processed meats on the other, how do you ensure your children have a good diet that will build a basis for their life-long health?

The old phrase “everything in moderation and nothing to excess” is a good stand-by. Think about how much your child should be eating at each meal, too. “With children, a ‘portion’ of fruit or vegetables is not the same as for adults,” explains Sam. “With very young children, aim for five ‘tastes’ of different foods each day. As they get older, a good guide is that a portion is about the size of their fist.”

Remember that different colours equal different vitamins, so when planning a meal, think colour as much as flavour. So a meal with peas, broccoli and cabbage is not as good as one with peas, sweet potato, tomato and yellow peppers. You can also

A B

the

photography: Istock

For: immune system, eyes & skin. Found in: cheese, eggs, yoghurt, low-fat spreads

If you would lIke to dIscuss your chIld's nutrItIon wIth sam, contact happy eaters at www.happyeaters.co.uk

For: iron, nervous system, protein absorption. Found in: meat & poultry, fish, bread & whole cereals, rice, dairy products, vegetables, soya beans, peanuts, yeast extract.

C

For: cells, tissue

avoid faddy eating by thinking cleverly.

“Try the same food in a different form – if they dislike raw carrots, try them cooked and vice versa,” suggests Sam. “Children’s likes and dislikes change a lot and it is really important to keep trying foods they may have previously rejected, as they may surprise you! Also, if your friends’ kids love a food yours hate, make it for supper and invite them. Peer pressure is often very useful.”

GET COOKING

Get the kids to help you cook. “Creating food from scratch really helps to take away the fear children have about unfamiliar foods,” says Sam. Finally, lead by example. If your children see you making poor food choices, they will think this is ‘normal.’ Try to always sit down to a family meal together where you share stories as well as the food.

This makes it a social occasion, takes the emphasis off what they are eating – and creates lifelong healthy eating habits.

of vitamins & organs. Found in:oranges, red & green peppers, green veg, strawberries & blackcurrants.

D

For: healthy bones & teeth. Found in: oily fish, eggs, fortified spreads & breakfast cereals, powdered milk.

E

For: protecting cell membranes. Found in: plant oils (soya, corn

& olive), nuts & seeds, wheat germ, cereals

K

For: healthy blood clotting & bones.

Found in: green leafy vegetables, oils, cereals, meat & dairy.

Don't forget to get: Calcium for strong bones & teeth, plus Iron for healthy red blood cells.

handy snacks and vitamin boosters Pot of pasta £1.79

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Fruity chunks for little fists £1.49

Veg and cereal £1.99

Loads of fruit 74p

Great for calcium 60p

little darlings

73

St Benedict’s, Ealing Independent Catholic Day School

Teaching a way of living

Co-education from 3 years through to 18

• Outstanding academic results: 95% A Levels awarded A* to B • Focus on the individual • Exciting extra-curricular programme • ‘A highly successful school’ (Independent Schools Inspectorate) • Scholarships and bursaries available at 11+ and 16+ • 20 acre parkland site

Open Morning Tuesday 12th November 2013 9.30am - 1.00pm

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

(Booking required - please contact the Admissions Secretary)

‘Nursery and Reception children are happy, secure and ready to learn.’

St. Helen’s School Eastbury Road Northwood Middlesex HA6 3AS

Adjacent to Northwood station (Metropolitan Line) with coaches available from many locations.

An independent day school for girls aged 3 to 18

ISI Inspection Report November 2012

Tel: 01923 843230 admissions@sthn.co.uk

www.sthn.co.uk

T: 020 8862 2254 E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk We respect the dignity of all and welcome children of other faiths.

Begin your BIG adventure with Shaped Teat nipple shaped flexible teat

FAMILIES FlexZone™ mimics natural stretch and flex

Shape & Size shape and size mimic mum’s breast

WORLDWIDE

Functional functional design, easy for filling and cleaning

Anti-colic advanced Anti-colic AirFlow™ System

The Falcons School for Boys

BPA free

Chiswick

Pre-Preparatory 3-7yrs 2 Burnaby Gardens London W4 3DT 020 8747 8393

s ink th s um mes s

i th by ba en Wh

nk sb rea st...

...to wh en les m

Richmond

mountains activityelephant rainforest ! island discovery morocco pillsperu es TM

no mo

jungle hiking learningr zip-wire

europe kayaking dolphin culture thailand nature cycling fun costa rica snorkel Receive an exclusive 10% discount

Preparatory 7-13yrs 41 Kew Foot Road London TW9 2SS 020 8948 9490 For further details, please email us at admin@falconschool.com or visit the website www.falconschool.com

Don’t blow your son’s future away.

Let him go the Falcons way.

online at www.vitalbaby.co.uk 01962 Just737 enter560 code “vitalbaby” at the checkout.

Small Groups & Bespoke Holidays

www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

74

little darlings B Range Ad 99x129 Portrait.indd 1

29/07/2013 13:24

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

baby makes

you will need

LET'S MAKE

1

2

3

65 plain flour 130g ground almonds 230g caster sugar 100g dark chocolate (70% coca solid) 230g egg whites (4) 180g burn butter (beurre noisette) 1 vanilla pod or 1 tbspn vanilla extract Pre-heat the oven to 1600

method

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Eat!

Split the vanilla pod in two & reserve seeds.

Cook butter on low heat until it starts to change colour & gets a nutty smell. Cool, adding vanilla pod to infuse.

Melt the chocolate over a bain-marie.

4

5

6

Combine the melted chocolate with the ground almonds, caster sugar, flour and vanilla seeds.

Pass the butter through a sieve, then fold the butter into the chocolate mixture.

7

8

9

Then add the egg white, mix well, and leave to stand for at least an hour (but preferably overnight).

Fill silicone cases with the mixture and bake for 12-15 minutes at 160째C.

Take out of the oven and leave to cool down before removing them for the tins.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

WITH THANKS TO CATHERINE SLOMAN. LAWYER BY DAY, COOK BY NIGHT, SHE'S PASSIONATE ABOUT BAKING WITH KIDS WWW.BATTENBURGBELLE.WORDPRESS.COM

CHOCOLATE FINANCIERS WITH BATTENBURG BELLE

little darlings

75

Dyslexia

School Search

YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE

YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE

We are specialists in Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and other learning difficulties. Let us find the perfect UK School.

Telephone +44 (0)1728 687964 or mobile 07754 756726 info@dyslexiaschoolsearch.com •www.dyslexiaschoolsearch.com

We are specialists in Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and other learning difficulties.

Let us find the perfect UK School.

Telephone +44 (0)1728 687964 or mobile 07754 756726 info@dyslexiaschoolsearch.com

www.dyslexiaschoolsearch.com

Kew College

Unlocking the potential of 3 to 11 year olds

“My children can’t wait to get into school every morning” Parent of pupils aged 5, 7 and 11

Head: Mrs Marianne Austin BSc MA ACA PGCE 24 - 26 Cumberland Road Kew, Surrey, TW9 3HQ Telephone: 020 8940 2039 enquiries@kewcollege.com

76

little darlings

95.5x129.5mm ad.indd 1

Established 60 years ago, Kew College is an independent school for children aged between 3 and 11. The ISI inspection in October 2010 concluded that ‘standards are exceptionally high in all aspects of English and Mathematics’ and that ‘pupils’ personal development and the school’s arrangements for welfare, health and safety are outstanding’.

Kew College is an IAPS school accredited by the Independent Schools Council.

www.kewcollege.com

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com 12/11/09 10:18:54

beauty Trish McEvoy Liquid Face Colour £27

Philip B Self adjusting hairspray £16

HAIR

GREAT NEWS FOR BUSY MUMS; PONYTAILS ARE HOT THIS SEASON. FROM THE LOW PONY TO THE MESSY 'DO, IT’S EASY TO ACHIEVE. ALL YOU NEED IS A GREAT BRUSH AND NOURISHING STYLING PRODUCTS.

CHEEKS

As seen at Lanvin, Moschino, Erdem

Look as if you’ve just come in from a bracing walk by applying a fresh pink to the apples of your cheeks.

As seen at Mulberry, Michael Kors,

Fabulous!

Temperley London

MINUTES TO

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK/GAMMA-RAPHO/GETTY IMAGES

Laura Mercier Crème cheek colour £20.50

Lips

A strong red lip is a timeless classic that freshens your look in seconds. Pick the right shade for you – some make your teeth look yellow!

TOM FORD Lip Colour £36.00

As seen at

, House of Holland, Victoria Beckham

June Ainscough London tortoise brush £79

When you’re a mum, having a long shower, hours to style your hair and ages to apply make-up may seem like a distant memory.

Luckily, there are plenty of great products designed with speed in mind. We show you which key Autumn/Winter catwalk looks you can achieve in just five minutes.

SHU UEMURA Lip & Cheek Tiny Colour £20.00

Cat Eyes are big news this season. Whilst we’re not suggesting you go for full-on tiger, a subtle version can be achieved with a couple of products. All it takes is a steady hand.

As seen at Lanvin, Moschino, Erdem YSL Pure Chromatics Dessin du Regards waterproof eye pencil £19

Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Intense eyeshadow £26

EYES Glittery, shiny colours are great for parties and for brightening up the long, grey days of Winter. Use for a flash of colour by day and load on for evening glamour.

As seen at

Bobbi Brown long wear gel eyeliner £17.50

Miaow!

Tom Ford Eye Color Quad £62

John Galliano, Jason Wu, Roberto Cavalli

Skin

The No-Make-Up-Make-Up look is firmly back in; skin should look bare, even if you’ve applied with a small trowel. BB and CC creams really come into their own here, with a light cover that hides blemishes

As seen at

Giles, Chloe, Christopher Kane

Stila CC cream SPF 20 £30

Clarins BB Skin Perfecting Cream SPF 25 £28

little darlings

77

Durston House 12 Castlebar Road · London W5 2DR

DEVONSHIRE HOUSE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

A leading West London Prep School for Boys

A great spirit of community. . . a real pride in achievement Visit our website www.durstonhouse.org Send for a Prospectus Or come to see us contact Mrs Caroline Ferns (Registrar) telephone 020 8991 6532 email info@durstonhouse.org

Boys Prep School 4-13 years · Registered Charity No. 294670 www.fintonhouse.org.uk

The Oak Tree Nursery is for children from the age of two and a half.

Devonshire House is a co-educational school for children from three to thirteen years of age.

Parents interested in further information or in applying for a place for a child should contact the Admissions’ Secretary.

Devonshire House School, 2, Arkwright Road, Hampstead, London NW3 6PD Tel: 020 7435 1916 enquiries@devonshirehouseprepschool.co.uk www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk

FINTON HOUSE SCHOOL FINTON HOUSE SCHOOL

A co-educational 4-11 school for children of all abilities New specialist teaching facilities and improved classrooms from September 2013 A school that lives up to its reputation Contact Lucy the Registrar on 020 8682 5757 to arrange a visit

Email: admissions@fintonhouse.org.uk 171 Trinity Road London SW17 7HL • Tel. 020 8682 0921

78

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

xxxxxxxxx xxxxx Health

I want my body back!

Our easy-does-it guide to getting your back into shape.

Radhika Holmström

If you’re gazing at your pre-pregnancy wardrobe with longing, wondering when you’ll be able to downsize from your maternity jeans, you’re not alone. “Your body goes through an enormous amount of change during pregnancy,” says Mervi Jokinen of the Royal College of Midwives. “Your pelvis has changed and it’s slightly larger, your muscles have been stretched and there’s more softness around your body.”

Theold saying “nine months up, nine months down” is pretty sensible, when you really think about it…

So don’t despair – and definitely don’t try crazy crash dieting, as you need all the energy you can get at this stage! But do start getting active. You may not be fully up to it until your six-week check-up, depending on how your labour and delivery went but it’s an excellent idea to get out of the house and get moving.

Start gently

Even if you were quite athletic before your pregnancy, be realistic about what your body can do early on. Apart from anything, you’re still quite likely to have pregnancy hormones in your system, softening your ligaments (especially if you’re breastfeeding), and you’re definitely likely to be more exhausted!

Make some practical plans, too. If you're

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

breastfeeding, feed the baby before you go out – and invest in a seriously supportive bra.

And without getting too personal, if your pelvic floor’s still a little, er, undependable, you might want to prepare for that eventuality too!

Hold it Firm

Some forms of exercise home in on those ‘core muscles’ that hold you in and tighten up your tummy; Pilates is an obvious example (and it’s great) but it’s not the only option. Along with the ‘hot new craze’ activities (see next page), some long-standing favourites like aqua aerobics are terrific belly-flatteners too. And don’t forget that pelvic floor exercises work that core too; pull your tummy in, draw up your pelvic floor and while you’re at it pull in your bottom muscles as well…and it’s a win-win in every direction.

Get together with others

One of the big advances in the past decade has been the boom in exercise classes for new mums, from post-natal Pilates classes to

pramming in the park. It’s a great way to meet local people in a non-pressured way – you’ve all got something in common, but at the same time the focus isn’t just on the baby! So check out noticeboards in the park, library, cafés and babyequipment shops. Anywhere where mummies gather, in fact, is a good place to look.

…or go solo

On the other hand, if you’re finding that taking life moment by moment is quite enough for you at present, spare yourself the extra strain of having to turn up on time for a class and just get moving on your own. A power-walk with the buggy doesn’t have to be scheduled; just grab the baby and go!

Head into the green

Finally, do try to get outside in a bit of green space. Exercise is great for your mental as well as your physical health. Even if you’re totally blissed-out with your new arrival, this is a pretty emotional time, when you’re likely to feel the lows as keenly as the highs. And research from the University of Exeter has found that just five minutes of exercising in nature can start lifting your mood – so getting to the local park, even at this time of year, is an excellent idea.

little darlings

79

health

DO Try This At Home Josephine Price looks at the hottest new fitness trends for new mums

TABATA

FIZZY YOGA

ZumBA

HuLA HOOPING

BARRETONE

Best for…

Best for…

Best for…

Best for…

Best for…

What is it? Exercising as hard as you can for four minutes per day. That’s it? Well according to fans, it can be any kind of aerobic exercise – skipping, cycling, squats etc. done in 20-seconds bursts with 10 seconds' rest in between.

Is it suitable? Any exercise will have a benefit but you might not keep this up.

Best to avoid if: You have high blood pressure or heart problems, and for a few months after birth.

What is it? A mixture of physiotherapy, massage, breathing and yoga poses.

Fizzy, or Physiyoga, is about strengthening the body. And with Kate, Duchess of Cambridge rumoured to have taken ante-natal yoga, it's a good all-rounder.

Is it suitable? It's gentle but intense stretching helps strengthen your body.

Best to avoid if: It's one of the safest forms of exercise, so go for it!

What is it? The dance fitness craze teamed with Latin music. Easy choreography blends aerobic and dance steps in a workout,which is claimed to burn up to 1,000 calories per hour!

Is it suitable? Previous dance experience is not required, and with no age limit, it is suitable for pretty much everyone.

Best to avoid if: For the first 12 weeks after giving birth if possible.

What is it? Kelly Osbourne and other celebs use hula hooping to target tums and waists. Start with a weighted hoop - easier to keep going than a flimsy one. Work up to ten minutes a day, and swap directions often.

Is it suitable? Yes, and can be enjoyed in the privacy of your own home too.

Best to avoid if: You have chest pain or dizziness when doing any kind of physical exercise.

What is it? The new version of pirouettes and pliés, barretone is a workout based on ballet moves that stretch and tone, with fantastic results.

Fans include Miranda Kerr and even Mick Jagger.

Is it suitable? It can increase wellbeing and alleviate pregnancy-related conditions. It redefines muscle tone and can help you lose weight.

Best to avoid if: The doctor has ordered you to

80

little darlings

"I injure myself easily:

"I love to dance"

"I want to tone my waist"

"I used to love ballet"

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

PhotograPhy: istock

"I have no time!"

ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION

Are children going to school too early?

Children in England are starting formal schooling too early. That’s the message of 127 educationalists and children experts who wrote an open letter to the Telegraph in September. They accuse Ministers of treating early years education simply as preparation for school. Instead, they say, “early childhood is a crucial stage in its own right which establishes the values and mindsets and underpin their sense of self, their attitude to later learning and their communicative skills and natural creativity.”

The letter marked the launch of the Too Much Too Soon campaign which seeks to delay formal education for Britain’s children.

At age 4, children in England start formal schooling two or three years earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Over the last 20 years the pressure to do this has increased as concern over literacy levels in the UK have reached fever pitch and yet literacy

levels have not drastically improved and in comparison to many other countries in the world, have actually dropped. A recent literacy ranking from the OECD put the UK near the bottom of the table when countries like Finland and Norway where children do not start school until age 7 were, as usual, at the top.

The views of the Too Much Too Soon campaign echo the earlier Cambridge Review which looked at the condition and future of primary education.

Experts there too argued for formal learning to start at age 6 saying that starting earlier can “dent children’s confidence and risks long term damage to their learning.”

Alongside the call for later formal education is the anxiety that the role of play is being downgraded. According to TMTS, “active,

creative and outdoor play is recognized by psychologists as vital for physical, social, emotional and cognitive development” and yet, they say, an understanding of this has been cut from key child care qualifications.

Recent Government announcements also suggest a move to introduce a system of tests and targets for nursery aged children that currently dominate primary education.

In Steiner Waldorf schools children do not start formal education until aged six. This follows three years of kindergarten where the young child’s sense of wonder and love of exploration is nurtured and allowed to blossom. Creativity, artistic activity and imagination are at the heart of the curriculum even in the primary years which enhances and helps develop key skills in literacy and numeracy. In turn this approach enables children to immerse themselves in their learning and enjoy school.

Woodlands, 90 Mycenae Road,Blackheath, London SE3 7SE T: 020 8858 4404 www.greenwichsteinerschool.org.uk

Greenwich Steiner School

Acorns age 0–31/2 Kindergarten age 31/2 –6 Lower School age 6–11 Middle School age 11-14

GSS_94x137_Aug13.indd 1

Playgroup A Home From Home

“The outcomes for children are good...they achieve well and enjoy their learning.”

Acorns is an independent organisation linked with Greenwich Steiner School.

School Inspection Service for OFSTED.

Our drop off Playgroup for 2-3½ year olds is a gentle, nurturing stepping stone to Kindergarten for those first important steps away from home care.

Open Days: Sat 1 Feb 2014, 10am –1pm Sat 15 Mar 2014, 10am –1pm School Tours: Each Friday 9am (book via school office)

Playgroup runs Monday – Thursday, 9am –10.59am in the beautiful Greenwich Steiner School, Woodlands, 90 Mycenae Road, Greenwich SE3 7SE 12 places available, allocated by personal interview with our excellent team of professional experienced carers.

Woodlands, 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath, London SE3 7SE T: 020 8858 4404 www.greenwichsteinerschool.org.uk

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com GSS_99x129_Indi_lil_Dar_Oct13.indd 1

06/08/2013 21:44

For further information, application and fees please visit our website www.greenwichacorns.org.uk or email admin@greenwichacorns.org.uk

21/10/2013 11:47

little darlings

81

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx education

Too Much, Too Soon?

Leading experts warn that we are forcing our children to start school too early – while others say it does no harm to expect more from our kids.

Sally J Hall investigates.

In the UK, we send our children to school at the age of four. However, many countries delay the start of formal education to six. A pressure group is asking the Government to consider changing our system so that early years of play are not lost.

The Save Childhood Movement is a group of academics, teachers and charity leaders who are calling for more play in the early years.

The group says that early stress on the 'Three Rs' takes away a child’s ability to play. They are also concerned that the Coalition Government is planning to introduce testing at five.

A spokesperson from the Department

peers. Experts say children should undertake play-based activities before this age. Dr David Whitebread, Senior Lecturer in Psychology & Education at Cambridge University says: "Evidence suggests that an early start undermines children's confidence and leads to early negative attitudes towards school and themselves. The effects are particularly marked in children from disadvantaged backgrounds, 'summer-born' and premature children whose birth-date does not reflect developmental age."

Wendy Ellyatt, founding director of the Save Childhood Movement said: “Though 90 per cent of countries prioritise social and

90 per cent of countries in the world prioritise social and emotional learning emotional learning and start formal schooling at six, in England we seem determined to cling to the belief that starting sooner means better results later.

“There is nothing wrong with seeking high educational standards and accountability but there's something wrong if it's at the cost of natural development.”

Children are currently assessed using the

Early Years Foundation Stage, covering personal and social development, communication and early numeracy, before moving to formal lessons at the age of five.

“We need a system that prepares pupils to solve hard problems in calculus, be a poet or engineer — freed from the grip of those who bleat pop-psychology about 'self image’, which is an excuse for not teaching poor children how to add up,” said the Government spokesperson.

pHotograpHy iStock

of Education suggested that the Group’s views were “misguided”, and accused them of wanting to ‘dumb down’ education. “These people represent … the culture of low expectations in state schools,” he said.

However, the Save Childhood Movement says: “Children entering school at six or seven consistently achieve better educational results and higher levels of wellbeing” than their

Educating norway

"I love it that kids here get the chance to play up to six without the pressure of languages and maths. Before that, nursery places are available to all babies over one. The kids take part in fun activities, with plenty ofexercise and rest."

Marit Loveland, Master in Childhood studies, & mum to Eira, two and Freya, four.

82

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION

Alleyn's - The Learning Journey

For further information or to arrange a visit to the school, call 020 8557 1519

ALLEYN’S JUNIOR SCHOOL The best start for boys and girls

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

What does your toddler's future look like? Parents naturally have aspirations but how do you decide what is the best start for your child? At Alleyn's we ensure that all children have a great experience of school from an early age.

We have a vision of what children will need in the years to come, beyond nursery and junior school and our early teaching offers the perfect ability to establish attributes and dispositions that will give them confidence to engage and participate effectively in future life. The children also learn to develop a sense of the needs of others.

Alleyn's teaching offers

facilites beyond the core curriculum that are devised to enrich and enthuse the pupils - music and sports lessons are popular, as are trips and excursions.

We also ensure that the transition from junior to senior school is a smooth one, keeping the momentum of learning which is so beneficial for all aspects of personal, academic and physical welfare.

Headmaster of Alleyn’s Junior School, Mark O’Donnell says, "Our goal is to provide children with opportunities to equip them not just for their immediate school needs but for future success. "

Open Day Tuesday 19 November 1.30pm – 3.00pm Please email juniorregistration@alleyns.org.uk or call 020 8557 1519 to obtain a prospectus or for any other information.

www.alleyns.org.uk

Co-educational academic excellence little darlings

83

ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION

Sydenham High: building enquiring minds Sydenham High School GDST has been educating girls to exceptionally high standards for over 125 years.

At the Junior School, we nurture girls through their formative years, encouraging enquiry, a love of learning and establishing the values, disciplines and attitudes that are central to success as learners and well-rounded individuals.

We offer a broad academic curriculum that encourages independent thinking and prepares girls for the academic life of the Senior School at a pace that suits young minds. They learn to master the building blocks of education: reading, writing and maths in the pre-prep, so that they progress into more formal learning by the age of seven. French is taught from Reception and Latin from Year Five.

Extensive extra-curricular activities are also part of our ethos, with

additional sport, music, drama and other clubs available beyond lessons. The girls have access to the facilities of the Senior School including the Westwood Theatre, music recital hall, all weather pitches and an eight-acre sports ground.

Our overriding aim is to find the potential within every girl, to discover and stimulate her interests and lay the foundations for a lifetime of learning.

We are very proud of our community and our capable, confident pupils. They would love to show you around their school so come to an Open Morning or book a personal tour.

Open Morning, Wednesday 13 November 9.30am to 11.00am

For further information: www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net • 020 8557 7004

079-Little-Darlings-HP.indd 1

84

little darlings

08/09/2013 19:05 www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

xxxxxxxxxeducation xxxxx

Just Add Kids

Even if you’re only just pregnant with your first child, the thought of nurseries, playgroups and schools will soon come to mind. The early years simply fly by and with hyped stories of people putting their child’s name down for Eton at birth, how soon should you start to think about your child’s early education? Whether you want to choose a State school, an independently funded one or an establishment that is slightly more alternative, we take a look at the options are available to you.

independent schools

Offering education from four to 11 years, some incorporate a nursery from two. Pre-preps prepare your child for Secondary education at a preparatory school and have a strong focus on academic subjects; many also offer languages and music. Some schools follow a particular ethos such as Steiner (see ‘Alternative’).

Entry requirements: each sets its own; some hold a ballot, for some you must register and others have an entrance assessment. Check early to avoid disappointment. Some require a non-refundable registration fee.

special needs

Many state schools offer support for children with special needs.

Speak to your Education Authority about what schools near you have to offer. Consider getting a Statement of Special Educational Needs, which can help provide you with additional support.

State Schools

Taking children from four, many offer a nursery from three.

Entry requirements: The all-important 'catchment area' is something you'll soon become familiar with. Barrington Dutton at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward’s Crouch End branch, comments: “Homes within soughtafter school catchment areas are in high demand and typically attract a premium of 10%.”

State schools offer the National Curriculum and many offer additional classes in music, languages and art.

Alternative and Faith schools

Usually independently funded, they may offer an ethos, such as the Steiner or Montessori method (see ‘Focus on Steiner’ on page 85). If you wish your child to be brought up within your faith, a religious school might be for you. They are available for many different faiths, so ask at your place of worship for recommendations.

Entry requirements: Faith schools usually ask that you're a regular worshipper. Alternative schools may have waiting lists, so check when you need to apply and make sure you do it on time to avoid disappointment.

Free schools

State schools set up in response to what parents feel an area needs, most are Secondary, though a few Primary schools are now emerging, such as Earl’s Court Free School, opening in 2014.

How to find

photography istock

to find your nearest school, visit www. gov.uk/find-school-inengland. the website has details of schools near you, their oftsed scores, number of pupils, and other details.

Enter your postcode and click on the link to discover each school's entry requirements. the catchment area for some areas is surprisingly small and can change from one year to the next.

www.gov.uk/find-scHool-in-England www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

85

FOREST SCHOOL

PREP | BOYS | GIRLS | SIXTH FORM

A unique London Preparatory School Forest is the only diamond structure school in London and is one of the very few in the country. This means that we teach our 1290 pupils (who are aged 4-18) in single-sex classes at key stages of their education. Our school is located on the edge of Epping Forest in north east London and our school buses go into north London and Essex.

Forest 7+ Assessments commence November 2013.

Little Darlings.indd 1

www.forest.org.uk info@forest.org.uk 020 8520 1744

31/10/2013 14:26:46

Independent Day School for Girls from 4 to 18 years

Independent Day School for Girls from School 4 to 18offers yearsgirls a friendly Queen’s Gate

supportive environment, where individuality Queen’s Gate School offers girls a friendly is nurtured, academic standards are high and supportive environment, where individuality where a broad-based curriculum ensure is nurtured, academic standards are high and a well rounded education. where a broad-based curriculum ensure a rounded education.

Dates ofwell Open Events can be found on our website and we hope that willonvisit Dates of Open Events can beyou found ourus to see what makes Queen’s Gate so unique. website and we hope that you will visit us to see makes Queen’s Forwhat a prospectus or to Gate makesoaunique. private visit

For a prospectus or to make a private visit to the School, please contact the Registrar, toMiss the School, please contact the Registrar, Janette Micklewright, on 0207 594 Miss Micklewright, on 0207 594 4982Janette or email registrar@queensgate.org.uk 4982 or email registrar@queensgate.org.uk

www.queensgate.org.uk www.queensgate.org.uk Queen’s Gate Junior School Queen’s Gate Junior School 125-126 Queen’s Gate 125-126 Queen’s Gate London SW7 London SW7 5LJ5LJ

86

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

xxxxxxxxxeducation xxxxx

Focus On…

STEinEr EducaTion The philosophy Steiner education, which is state funded in many European countries, is less well known in the UK and you will have to pay to have your child cared for in one of their schools.

Steiner education does not discriminate against children by ability, class, ethnicity or religion and focuses on the needs of the whole child, including physical, academic, emotional and spiritual aspects. It depends upon a good understanding of the development of a child and best of all, it helps encourage a love of learning and of school. Artistic and musical skills are viewed as integral to learning and children can be taught from three to 18 years.

The Early Years A typical Steiner Kindergarten looks and feels quite different to those attached to mainstream schools. There is a strong emphasis on natural materials and no hard or sharp corners or strong colours. Janni Nicol of the Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship explains,

"Children spend three or four years in mixed aged kindergartens. The enabling environment and qualified Steiner teachers provide age-appropriate activities, stories, puppet shows and more, meeting the needs of each individual child.

No formal teaching takes place but children are supported to develop holistically. " Learning the “Three Rs” is not emphasised, as Steiner educators believe that children will be more responsive to acquiring these skills when they are confident and happy in their environment. Janni continues, "All children

children grow in peace, harmony, love and care

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

photography istock

Who was Steiner?

Rudolf Steiner, born in Austria in 1861, had very advanced ideas about the education of children. In 1919 he founded a school in Stuttgart and began a worldwide movement of education that promotes human values.

ProfIle: InsIde st Paul’s steIner school In IslIngton located inside a beautiful 19th century church, st Paul’s takes children from the age of three right up to 14 years.

It welcomes all families regardless of race or creed. It also has a playgroup for twoto four-year-olds nearby.

In the next Issue…

MontessorI educatIon

benefit from a childhood where there's time to learn, play and explore social situations, to develop language and to learn daily life skills and grow in peace, harmony, love and care. The whole family is embraced by the curriculum and kindergarten culture and parents bring some of the crafts, festivals etc. into their home - and customs and cultures from home are brought to the kindergarten.

It is important to the school and to its steiner philosophy that each child is educated in a healthy, balanced manner. teaching covers not just the intellectual ability of a developing child but also physical and emotional wellbeing and the curriculum is matched to the child’s age. the aim is to equip children to be

creative and to find their own place in the world. families who wish to explore taking their child to st Paul’s should first book a tour, which is an opportunity to ask questions and see the facilities and staff. following that, they can register for a place.

little darlings

87

ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION

Little Monkies Make music

Simple percussion helps Babies learn to appreciate them understand rhythm music even while they are and every child loves bashing still in your tummy. Music a mini drum or shaking a can soothe, stimulate and has maraca to the tune! been shown to help babies From rock and roll to 'ding develop more quickly.

At Monkey Music, we help dong', classes are tailored for each age group from three babies develop their musical months right up to four years. ear through simple action The classes build up into a songs and rhymes. Help fun, friendly and familiar your little one get to grips time to let their musical side with language, counting and rip.! tunes with catchy songs and infectious actions.

For further information about classes near you call 01582 766464 info@monkeymusic.co.uk

introducing yoomi

monkey music.indd 21

31/10/2013 16:54

the award winning self-warming baby bottle

Enter code LITTLEDARLINGS1 for your 15% discount at

yoom

m If you go down to thei.co woods today you’re sure of a big • Warms in 60 seconds • Ideal for surprise..... on the go (Valid until November 30 2013)

For all things Party!

• Great for the night feeds • Perfect breast milk Log burners, cosy beds, fire pits, temperature – every time

great food, and plenty of adventure.

“Going out with my daughter is so much easier” Saffron mum to Izzie

01626 824666 www.chelseaparties.co.uk 88

little darlings

Tel: 020 7349 8198

www.yurtcamp.co.uk www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

spa reviews

TIME FOR ME

It’s tough being a mum and sometimes you need a little time off to recharge.

We've selected four great spas plus some home treatments.

THE SPA AT THE DORCHESTER

COMO SHAMBHALA

Best for…

Post natal massages and skin detoxifying treatments

Best for…

Signature facials by Carol Joy London

You’d expect great quality and service at this hotel and the Spa does not disappoint either.

After a complete refurbishment in 2009, it exudes 1930s glamour. With aromatic steam rooms and experience showers, it also has a fully equipped gym. www.dorchestercollection.com

The world-renowned COMO Shambhala group have a not-so-secret urban escape in the Metropolitan by COMO Hotel. Inspired by healthy living philosophies from ancient Buddhist texts, the spa offers Asian based therapies in a luxury serene setting. www.comohotels.com

AVEDA INSTITUTE SPA

AKASHA HOLISTIC WELLBEING CENTRE AT CAFE ROYAL HOTEL

Best for…

Speedy facial and hair after a day’s hard shopping

Best for…

Inspired by pant-based healing traditions, the spa uses Aveda’s range of face, body and hair products. Aveda believes in restoring balance through pure aromas. Choose a 30 minute facial based on your skin’s needs. www.avedainstitute.co.uk

Do Try This At Home LIGHT UP Elemis Scent of Spa Candle, £25 The scent of orange, cinnamon and vanilla will help you start to unwind.

BARE FACED Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil, £29.50 Remove make-up and deep cleanse with soothing jasmine flower extract and jojoba oil.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

With an 18 metre pool and stunning interiors, Akasha at the Café Royal offers an array of holistic and rejuvenating treatments. Try their pregnancy massage using mandarin, rose centifolia and lavender flower oils, which loosens up your lower back and hips. www.hotelcaferoyal.com

Pregnancy massage and serious swimming.

If you can’t get to the spa, create a little bit of luxury at home.

BATHING BEAUTY Laura Mercier Ambre Vanille Honey Bath, £31 Drizzle a little under the tap, then enjoy its Shea butter and vanilla fuelled foaming experience.

ROOT IT OUT Bumble and Bumble Mending Complex, £25.50 Slick through dry or damp hair to protect and repair damaged hair. Can be used as a leave-in treatment too.

SCRUBBER Rituals Himalaya Wisdom Body Scrub, £14.50 The Ayurvedic ingredients of Himalayan crystal salt and mint freshen skin with a softening body scrub.

SOFTEN & SMOOTH AVEDA Stress-Fix Body Lotion, 50ml, £8.00 Pat dry, then nourish damp skin with essences of lavender, clary sage and pure essential oils.

little darlings

89

Protecting your newborn, right from the beginning.

Have peace of mind in the well being of your newborn baby by storing their cord blood and cord tissue stem cells.

They provide a unique biological insurance which one day might prove a life saver.

Cord blood is currently used to treat blood disorders and cord tissue has shown to regenerate a number of these tissue types. Samples are a 100% match for your child and may even be used to treat other family members.

Future Health Biobank is leading the way in cord blood, cord tissue and tooth stem cell collection. We are fully accredited by the industry’s leading regulatory agencies, having preserved over 80,000 samples from 54 countries. We are proud to be the only human tissue bank to have received the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

To find out more about our services and flexible payment plans speak to our customer care team quoting LD1013.

Call us on: 0800 954 5335 Email us at: custcare@fhbb.com Visit us at: www.futurehealthbiobank.co.uk

Coughs & sneezes and nasty diseases

baby xxxxxxxxx & childxxxxx health

Health Editor Radhika Holmström provides expert advice on your child's seasonal ailments

‘Tis the season for snuffles. At this time of year, it can seem like it’s just one thing after another! What’s more, it’s often hard to know whether you should ring the doctor or give extra cuddles and paracetamol…

We’ve talked to the experts about the most frequent lurgies affecting under-fives and got their advice on when to wait it out, when to call the doctor, and what you can to do stave off the problem in the first place.

But if you're worried and your child is listless, make that call!

Coughs and colds

You’re not imagining it: pre-school children get between nine and 12 viruses – mostly coughs and colds – between September and March each year, says consultant paediatrician Dr Donald Macgregor, a spokesperson for the Royal College of Paediatrics & Child Health.

“It can seem like it’s one constant cold, but it’s actually one after another.” So you know they’re recovering, even if it’s only to fall prey again!

Most of the time it’s best to stock up on tissues and fluids. “There’s very little you can do for the snuffles – getting them to breathe steam doesn’t make much difference – the big issue is to make sure they’re feeding and especially that they’re getting enough liquid (ideally milk).” Most children won’t be able to get much in with a blocked-up nose, so that means ‘little and often’. And make sure everyone in the house is washing their hands

THe vaccinaTables Measles, mumps, rubella and whooping cough are all covered by the routine vaccines offered to every child. and while most of the time these are fairly minor illnesses, they can all do real damage. “it makes little sense to avoid the vaccine,” Finn says firmly. “and if you don’t give them now, your child may get ill in 10 or 15 years’ time, long after you’ve forgotten all about it.” www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

91

Pregnancy

Gynaecology

Genetics

3D Scans & DVDs

niftytest.com Nifty, the fast, stimple blood test for detecting Down’s Syndrome and other trisomies from BGI. Available at our clinic now.

Antenatal clinics, birthing classes, Mumsnet and Twitter are buzzing with talk about Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing or NIPT. NIPT is a collective term used for tests that parents may know better as the NIFTYTM, HARMONYTM or VerifiTM. Currently most women are offered an ante natal screening test between 11-13 weeks which is often known as the Nuchal or Combined Test. It is offered to inform parents of the likelihood of their baby having Down’s, Edwards or Patau’s Syndrome. 10-15% of women who have the test will have a moderate or high risk result and many parents are left with the dilemma of whether to have further invasive testing such as chorion villus sampling (CVS) or Amniocentesis. Unfortunately these invasive tests carry a small risk of miscarriage of around 0.5% or (1:200).

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing explained NIPT is a safe and simple maternal blood test which separates the baby’s DNA (genetic material) from the mothers and gives a strong indication of whether the baby may have any one of the three syndromes including Down’s syndrome. The advantage of NIPT is that it is very accurate (greater than 99.5%) and results return as either Low or High risk avoiding the dilemma of moderate risk ranges. For example a low risk result for Down’s syndrome means that the likelihood of a baby being affected is less than 1:10,000 but a high risk result means that there is a greater than 1:2 (or at least 50%) chance that the baby will have the syndrome. If an NIPT test result returns as High Risk parents can then discuss the need for further invasive testing with their doctor or fetal medicine specialist.

Unfortunately NIPT is not yet available in the NHS and a quick internet search reveals a confusing price range in the private sector of up to £1000, even though all tests commercially available in the UK perform equally well. Due to its research links, Ultrasound Diagnostic Services (UDS) is able to offer NIPT at cost price offering the NIFTY test at £350 and the Harmony Test at £400. With future trials at University College and St Georges Hospitals, London there is every chance that the NHS may well be the first in the world to offer NIPT as part of its routine pregnancy care.

UDS offers the NIPT test at its London clinics. For more information, contact them on 020 7935 2243 to get peace of mind for you and your baby.

For more information or to book a scan contact us:

+44 (0) 20 7935 2243 | ultrasound@uds.uk.com | www.uds.uk.com

baby & child health properly too – grubby paws are the top way to pass infections on.

If they’re off their food or running a fever for five days or more, make an appointment – and a child who’s got a wheezing cough or difficulty breathing definitely needs help. However, do remember that unless they develop an infection, antibiotics aren’t the answer (see box ‘The drugs don’t work’).

Flu

child does go down with it, the main danger signals are purple spots and bleeding under the skin. “If the rash starts to look more worrying, it could be a sign of cellulitis, which is a bacterial infection that’ll need antibiotics.”

Tummy upsets

Two little letters, ‘D and V’ strike terror into every parent’s heart. But horrid though it is to witness your very own little Vesuvius explode from every orifice (especially if you’re on cleanup duty) once again, keep them hydrated and everyone’s hands clean and this too should pass. “We don’t give cool boiled water any

on how heavy a cream you need, though they can make the child a bit slippery to handle.

Use aqueous cream instead of soap as well,” he recommends. “Every child will say ‘yuk’ when they’re first creamed up. It doesn’t mean that the product’s irritating them!”

Most children eventually grow out of it, he adds. While they are afflicted, the strongest signal that all might not be well – particularly that the eczema might be getting infected, when it’s stinging and painful as well as itchy – is if they can’t sleep for scratching. “Another thing you can do is a quick body-search to see how much of their body’s covered, using their palm as a guide to one per cent of their surface area. If your child has five palm’s worth of eczema – or five per cent – it’s more than just ‘mild’.”

First off: flu is different from a bad cold. If you’re functioning, however grim you’re feeling, it’s almost certainly not flu. It can be nasty – and if your child goes down with a high fever, lots of vomiting or a rash – or if you can’t get any fluid into them – get some advice. If The drugs don’T work they’re asthmatic, make a call to It’s easy to turn up at the doctor’s demanding the surgery too. antibiotics, but remember that these only work And just like colds, flu rolls This is the big one and means on bacterial infections – not on viruses like around regularly. “We see a peak immediate action. Though some colds or flu. what’s more, doctors are getting in flu cases each winter: sometypes of this disease (an infecvery seriously concerned that we’re overusing times in December, sometimes tion of the membranes and spinal antibiotics, and drug-resistant bacterial inin the New Year, though the column around the brain) can be fections are on the rise. There are definitely numbers vary,” says Dr Ken vaccinated against, others can’t. times when they’re necessary – and some, like Eames, who is a flu specialist at Not all types have the infamous meningitis, when they’re absolutely essential the London School of Hygiene rash (tiny red or purple ‘pin– but don’t use them as a first port of call & Tropical Medicine. But the pricks’ which don’t fade when for everything. good news is that, unlike the pressed with a glass) which you pesky common cold, the flu virus might miss if your baby has dark can be vaccinated against. The Asian or black skin – so don’t even better news is that all two and three-yearwait for this, which is a late sign in any case. more: stick with milk,” Macgregor advises. olds (except those with egg allergies or severe Jane Blewitt of the charity Meningitis Now “And once again, little and often is the key. If asthma) are now eligible for a free dose of the advises: “In a sick baby or toddler, things that you can’t get enough fluid in, or if your child vaccine, with plans to extend this; for once it should ring alarm bells are a child who’s unusuis just not acting the way they should – for isn’t done by a needle, but squirted up the nose. ally drowsy or floppy, or one who’s distressed instance, if they don’t feel as warm to the touch “This vaccine has been around a few years, and but doesn’t actually want to be picked up and as usual – then do seek help.” The big thing to gives good protection to children. The nasal cuddled. They may start to breathe quickly or guard against is dehydration. spray is quicker and easier than needles – and make grunting sounds; quite often their cries If your baby is tiny, though, things should a bit less scary,” Eames explains. Mind you, he sound different from usual, too. In a young be rather different because another new vacadds, he wouldn’t be surprised if it caused the baby the fontanelle on the head can start to cine – this one given orally by a dropper – is occasional sneeze too. “I expect the vaccinators bulge, which’ll indicate pressure.” Older chilbeing given at two and three months to protect will keep a packet of tissues handy.” dren may get a stiff neck, say bright light hurts against rotavirus, the stomach bug that often them or complain that their head feels “heavy”. lays families, nurseries and classrooms low. It And along with a high temperature, they may won’t banish D and V completely (alas) but have very cold hands and feet. should make it a lot less common.

Blewitt recommends every parent gets hold Tell-tale blister-style rash? Uh-oh. With of the Meningitis Now symptoms card or its measles, mumps and rubella (German measles) Freephone app (see www.meningitisnow.org) off the agenda for most children (see our inset but above all, she says, don’t work your way box ‘The Vaccinatables’), chicken-pox is one of Eczema isn’t catching but it’s not fun to see down a ‘list’ before alarm bells go off. “If you the few big hitters left these days. Most of the your baby’s skin getting itchy, red or cracked. think it's one of the meningitis symptoms, get time it means a week or two of misery, though Your first tactic is to support the skin’s own medical help immediately.” And if that means it can leave some long-term scars. ability to repair itself, explains Dr Bav Shergill, going straight to A&E, so be it.

However, says Adam Finn, Professor of consultant dermatologist with the British Paediatrics of the University of Bristol, there Association of Dermatologists. “Use lots of is actually a vaccine available and more people moisturiser, topping it up during the day. It’s AlwAys AcT ImmedIATely are opting for it. It’s not always that easy to get best to use a cream-based product, with no preIf you suspecT hold of but some private clinics and GPs have servative or perfume – you can get this on premenIngITIs. it – so it’s well worth asking around. If your scription. There are different types, depending

Meningitis

photography: © Blend Images/alamy

Chickenpox

Eczema

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

93

a wild place to 速 shop and eat Rainforest Cafe is a unique venue bringing to life the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

Come and try our fantastic menu! Includes gluten free, dairy free and organic options for kids.

JUST 2 MINUTES FROM PICCADILLY CIRCUS

15%

Discount off your final food bill* Download our app now!

PICCADILLY CIRCUS

Book online: www.therainforestcafe.co.uk Tel: 020 7434 3111 Email: sales@therainforestcafe.co.uk *Offer valid seven days a week. Maximum party size of 6. Please present to your safari guide when seated. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

win

Win prizes worth over £3,000

To help us celebrate the launch of Little Darlings, we have these gorgeous prizes. Scan the QR code or head online to win. www.littledarlingsmagazine.com/win Silver Cross Ruby Doll £35 with Classic Wooden Dolls Pram £80; Classic Wooden Push Along £65 with Grace Topsy Turvy Rag Doll £35; Tea For Two Fabric Tea Set £30 with Truly Scrumptious Cake Set £24 and Timble Soft Bear £20.

Maxi-Cosi Maxi-Cosi 2wayFamily Pebble baby car seat and 2wayFix Base and 2wayPearl toddler seat worth £540

BabyBjorn Five One Carriers worth 119.99 each. Suitable from birth to three years.

OiOi Changing Bag One Gun Metal Patent changing bag worth £145

Petite Star One Petite Star 3 in 1 Car Walker, worth £69.98

Maternicare 15 bottles of Pre & Post-Natal Nourishing cream, worth £15 each

Vosene 10 Vosene rucksacks with Tesco voucher, and products worth £30 each

B Kids Bobbe Snuggle Bear worth £25

Sparks is dedicated to funding research into conditions affecting babies, children and mums-to-be.

Sparks aims to improve the quality of life for families affected by serious illness or disability and seeks ways to better treat and prevent these conditions in the future. We are proud to be working with a cause which means so much to us all at Little Darlings.

www.sparks.org.uk www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Sugarjack 30 Packs of jigsaw puzzle & flash card sets worth £25

Brother Max One Scoop Highchair worth £339.99 Head online for this great competition

scan with your smartphone little darlings

95

Luxury Holidays for all the family Beachclubs - All Inclusive - Ski holidays - Cruises

CONNOISSEUR TRAVEL Providing family holidays for discerning travellers since 1994

Experience your own unique tailor e id made worldw luxury family holiday

Travel Action & Superior Cruises Offering exceptional service and fantastic deals

www.travelaction.co.uk

www.superiorcruises.co.uk

0844 811 8489 ATOL & TTA protected holidays

Tel: 01403 272143 • info@connoisseurtravel.co.uk

www.connoisseurtravel.co.uk

All travel is covered by fully bonded ABTA/ATOL tour operators.

Holiday Cornwall Self catering waterside and country properties in stunning holiday locations

Telephone 01326 250278 Web www.holidaycornwall.co.uk 96

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

xxxxxxxxx Travelxxxxx gear

Departures

one carrier

Travelling with the kids? We've found the best products to help you glide smoothly through the airport - and beyond.

BaBYBJÖrn

£120

Suitable from birth to three years, you can carry a tiny baby facing you, then turn him around as he grows to face outwards, then carry him as a toddler on your back.

trunki trunki

£37.99 VoYager carrier

getting through the airport with kids is a breeze with this clever suitcase. not only does it hold all your child's clothes, it's a ride-on too. no more tired little legs!

LittLe Life

£125

Bea changing Bag SugarJack £239

ian in beautiful ital ll believe wi dy bo leather, no ng bag, not this is a changi With pockets a luxe handbag. bits, it by for all your ba acrossan or s has handle the-body strap.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

With a design based on mountaineering backpacks, you can leave the pram at home. comfy padding and storage pockets make it both useful and practical.

torro hauck

£139.99

a sturdy yet lightweight stroller that's perfect for holidays. it folds compactly and comes with a cosy toes and raincover, so you're prepared whatever the weather.

little darlings

97

Family shows

by Ross Collins

The magical story of a little girl and her larger-than-life friend

A TICKLL ETS

For everyone 4 years and over

10 December – 11 January

£12

The National Theatre’s BIG NEW adventure For everyone 7 years and over

16 November – 20 February

UNDE 18s R HAL PRICF * E

020 7452 3000 nationaltheatre.org.uk No booking fee

*Excluding tickets under £24

Original photo by Hugo Glendinning.

by Erich Kästner adapted by Carl Miller

xxxxxxxxx xxxxx

MOON UNIT TRAVEL COT

ARRIVALS

COSATTO,

£160

Suitable from birth, this has a bassinet for newborns, a carry case and wheels for easy transport, plus a removable mattress and cot top changer.

ZOO PACK

TOODLE-LOO SIMPLE SOLUTIONS

£12.99

Potty training on the go just got easier with this fold-up loo trainer seat. Fits on top of any size loo and is stored in its own small bag.

SKIP HOP,

£20.75

With an insulated front pouch to keep snacks cool and a pocket on the side for drinks, this holds all your little one's gear and has a strap for you to hold, so they won't go AWOL.

WRIGGLE WRAPPER S

PHIL&TED

£39.99

r to any chai Convert h t hair wi a high c rness a h table this por s like a that fit t clips nappy. I ny chair a around , is ing time for feed and e l b a h was machine use. easy to

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

WOOTCH QL LONDON

£29.99

It's a cute watch for kids but also uses innovative QL Find™ technology to alert parents when their child wanders away. Great in crowded places, parents can use a smartphone or tablet to find their child.

TRAY KIT CONTENT & CALM

£26.99

The all-in-one travel carry-on backpack and play tray solution with straps to hang from the seat in front in a car or plane.

Wipe clean and has space for toys, snacks and art materials.

little littledarlings darlings

99 AA

book reviews

READ ALL ABOUT IT What's new in the book and app stores

The Slightly Annoying Elephant David Walliams What’s big, blue, bossy, and turns up uninvited? A slightly annoying elephant, of course! Walliams' first picture book with Tony Ross.

2

ABC

Damien Hirst From A is for Anatomy to Z is for Zebra, this is a childfriendly introduction to Hirst's work, produced with soya bean ink. The 26 images represent Hirst's iconic imagery.

2

4

5

3

The Further Adventures of The Owl and the Pussycat Julia Donaldson Edward Lear's much-loved rhyme has been reworked by the popular author of The Gruffalo.

4

Peekaboo Sophie

Dorling Kindersley Meet Sophie la girafe in this new touch-and-feel picture book.

Bursting with sensory surprises, it's a great way to play 'Peekaboo' with Sophie and friends.

3 6

5

6

Peep inside the Zoo Anna Milbourne Illustrated by Simona Dimitri, this book is sure to enchant young animal lovers as they go behind the scenes at the zoo and meet the magical menagerie.

Wind-up bus

Usborne Publishing Create a map of London and set off with the doubledecker bus to explore London's famous landmarks. Remove the tracks from the book to make one big track on the floor.

let's get Digital Best for: MUMS ON THE MOVE Gobaby Packed with advice, this app is essential for anyone taking the tube with a baby in tow

100

little darlings

Best for:

RECIPES Henri le Worm Chef Raymond Blanc and actor Simon Pegg teach your little ones about food and nature through cooking.

Best for:

LEARNING Fisher Price See'n'Say Inspired by the classic learning toy, this app helps children to associate words with images

Best for:

IMAGINATION Toy Story: Story Theatre This app puts you in control of the characters and lets you dream up your own plot

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

for prices see online @littledarlingsmagazine.com/books

1

1

QUAINTON HALL SCHOOL & NURSERY Hindes Road, Harrow HA1 1RX IAPS/Church of England

Boys 2½ - 13

QUAINTON HALL & NURSERY GirlsSCHOOL 2½ - 11 Hindes Road, Harrow HA1 1RX IAPS/Church of England

Supporting families for over 120 years Working exclusively with Norland Nannies and Maternity Nurses

2½- 13 & Girls 2½ WE EXTENDBoys A WARM WELCOME TO- 11 PROSPECTIVE Boys 2½ - 13 PARENTS AND THEIR CHILDREN 2½ - 11WELCOME TO WE EXTEND AGirls WARM

PROSPECTIVE PARENTS AND • Excellent Academic Results • Exceptionally broad curriculum THEIR CHILDREN TO WE EXTEND A WARM WELCOME TOOUR PROSPECTIVE • Extensive extra-curricular activities

AND THEIR • Wide variety of team sports • PARENTS Excellent Academic ResultsCHILDREN • Outstanding facilities including an indoor pool • Exceptionally broad curriculum Excellent Academic • An open and friendlyResults school community • Extensive extra-curriculum • Secure after school care Exceptionally broad curriculum activities • Wide variety of team Sports • Extensive extra-curricular activities • Wide variety offacilities team sportsincluding an indoor pool • Outstanding Outstanding including an indoor pool • An• open andfacilities friendly school community Further details the friendly Admissions' Secretary: 020 8427 1304 • Anfrom open and school community • Breakfast & After School care

admin@quaintonhall.org.uk • Secure after school care

www.quaintonhall.org.uk

Walsingham College (Affiliated Schools)Secretary: Charity No. 312638 Further details from the Admissions’ 020 8427 1304 admin@quaintonhall.org.uk www.quaintonhall.org.uk

Further details from the Admissions' Secretary: 020 8427 1304 admin@quaintonhall.org.uk www.quaintonhall.org.uk Walsingham College (Affiliated Schools) Charity No. 312638

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Tel: 01225 904030 Email: agency@norland.co.uk www.norlandagency.co.uk

little darlings

101

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

102

little darlings

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

xxxxxxxxx travel xxxxx

nursery sLoPes There's a nip in the air and that means just one thing - ski season! Josephine Price has nailed how to ski successfully with the little ones and discovers the very best places for a family ski holiday you'll all treasure.

Whether you are a family of beginners or seasoned skiers, a holiday on the slopes provides the perfect opportunity to get out of London and enjoy sweeping mountainous landscapes and clean mountain air. It comes as a welcome break for urban families and the children love it.

A family break does not come cheap, so researching the best type of break for your family is essential. From the well-trodden pistes of Europe

to the grand North American counterparts, there truly is something for everyone.

According to the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), winter sports holidays have increased in popularity by 10 per cent since 2012.

And after the great snowfall last year, the 2013/14 season looks set to be another busy one.

Teaching children to ski while they are young is like the old bike trick, once learnt‌

Choose a ski break to suit your family and your pocket

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

little darlings

103

TRAVEL

Choosing where to ski and where to stay with your children in tow is a big decision.

where to stay

Location makes all the difference to your holiday, as you don't want to lug gear around unnecessarily.

Savvy skiers may opt to send their gear ahead with luggage collection company, First Luggage. And to check out details on snowfall and ski resorts, visit The Ski Club of Great Britain which has plenty of great tips for bewildered first-timers.

born to ski

There are conflicting views about what age is best to get your children on the slopes. The French strap on skis as soon as a child can walk, others think it is best to wait until they are about three. Whatever you decide for your under-fours, there's a ski school to suit.

And once you've strapped them onto their baby skis, you'll be astounded at the speed with which they learn - and envious of how little fear they show. Even the most apathetic of families will find it hard to ignore the competitive streak that a day on the slopes can ignite!

With the mixture of skiing, toboganning and other fun-filled activities at the kids' club, a ski holiday rarely prompts the cry: "I'm bored!" from your little ones. Specialist family ski destinations are packed with nurseries, qualified nannies and instructors, plus they offer itineraries to keep everyone busy from morning until night.

Teaching your children to ski yourself causes

mixed emotions - potential parenting battles can be offset by the pride in seeing them swoop off for the first time. If you choose to pay someone to do it for you, make sure to get a certified instructor with experience of teaching young children. Your resort is sure to have one.

when to go

If you have pre-school children, you're lucky you can plan to travel outside of school holidays, thus avoiding the price hikes the travel industry imposes on parents. For those who have to follow the constraints of the academic year, the period over New Year and February half term are renowned for being busy - especially as both state and independent schools have their half terms at the same time in 2014 - but with Easter falling late, lack of snowfall might mean you find more edelweiss than snowflakes.

The good news is that most ski resorts lend themselves to family groups, so it is not difficult to find accomodation to fit your needs.

Self-catering apartments are available in all ski resorts and offer the most independence. They also work out rather cheaper but it is important to remember that you might feel the need for a little rest and luxury at the end of a long day shepherding your herd down the slopes.

Ski hotels range from basic bedand-breakfast to five-star resorts.

This type of break means that someone else does the cooking, cleaning and washing-up and also offers facilities such as swimming pools, spas, gyms and play areas. Prepare to be pampered, but pay for it.

Picturesque ski chalets are typical of alpine accommodation. Chalets tend to provide a fullboard experience which means that, unless you hire the whole chalet, you share your meals and leisure time with other guests. Staff are often on hand to sweep the children off to a crèche or separate dining area if requested. Chalets have recently upped their game and many now offer spa facilities to match hotels.

Each ski destination has its perks and it is a good idea to find out its secrets. For example, the French ski resorts are flooded with university students in the week before Christmas. Expect noisy crowds in the evenings, but quieter slopes in the mornings.

ToP TiPS FoR A FAMily Ski holidAy FRoM ABTA • Make sure everyone is insured with Winter Sports Cover • Pack layers to keep warm • Always wear a helmet • Carry a piste map with you at all times and choose pistes suitable for your ability • Make sure children are properly supervised at all times • Remember you’ll be doing a lot of exercise,

104

little darlings

which can leave you hungry and dehydrated.

Pack a few small snacks just in case • Take extra care in the sun, remember to pack a high SPF with you, • And finally, children love winter sports but keep an eye on them to make sure they are not attempting too much – they will probably be better than you by the end of the week anyway! www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Let us find your perfect country home!

Watership Property Limited is an independent property search and acquisition company. We specialise in finding houses, estates, farms and building plots for private buyers in Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. We provide a tailor made service acting exclusively for a restricted number of non-conflicting buyers.

Kim Hall 07979 851584 kim@watershipproperty.com Rosanna Patrick 07767 445224 rosanna@watershipproperty.com

www.watershipproperty.com

TRAVEL

best resort

geT The geAr

four of the best destinations with kids Ski jacket/suit From £69

Sunglasses From £14.99

Aspen Snowmass, USA

Avoriaz, France

Aspen, Colorado is a great option for intermediates. The Rocky Mountain range is beautifully groomed and like most things American, enormous.

The long distance (flights to Denver are 10 hours) turns the trip into a fully-fledged adventure, with no language barrier. Viceroy Snowmass is a fantastic mountain resort hotel with two kids' activity centres. Elegant Resorts price a seven-night stay for a family of four at £6,985.

Avoriaz in the French Alps is a true family destination and being car-free, means that accommodation is ski-in, skiout. A chalet option is the best bet here and Chilly Powder, with a team of qualified nannies, understands that you may not always want to watch the little ones perfect their snowplough. Evenings are a delight, as Francesca unveils her Cordon Bleu training over supper. Expect prices to start at £3,200 for a week’s accommodation for a family of four.

Thermal underwear From £19.99

Ski trousers From £47.99

Hat From £25.99

106

Trysil, Norway

Courchevel, France

Norway is fast becoming a popular choice for families to discover Scandinavia. The Trysil resort, the largest in Norway, boasts the biggest children’s area in Northern Europe. The Northern location ensures a longer ski season from November to late April, which helps out with time or school holiday restraints. Travel experts Ski Safari price a seven-night stay for a family of four at three-star Fjellblikk self-catering apartments from £2,140.

If you love skiing in style, Courchevel is for you. The Cheval Blanc hotel understands that what awaits you after a day on the slopes is as important as time spent on them. Brought to the Alps by LVMH, the brand responsible for Dior, De Beers and Dom Pérignon, Cheval Blanc has made its mark with Michelin stars and designer boutiques. Expect to pay £17,969 for a family of four for seven nights.

little darlings

All iTemS From SNow & roCk www.SNowANdroCk.Com

Snow boots From £16.49

Thermal fleeces From £23.99

Sunscreen From £5.99

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

The ultimate portfolio of luxury ski accommodation

Chalet Grace, Zermatt

For more information visit our website: www.alpineluxurychalets.com Or simply call us on: 020 7801 1089

Tailor Made Family Holidays

SANTA SPECIALS South Africa

Maldives

S E E S A N TA O N A STEAM TRAIN! Advance booking only!

Mauritius

With more than 15 years experience in the Travel Industry and with children of my own, I specialise in creating tailor made holidays for families to South Africa, Mauritius and the Maldives. Through personal experience I have found some fantastic “family friendly” accommodation throughout these regions and would be delighted to help you plan your next holiday. For more information, please call or email me:

Alison Aldred

Tel: 01483 762033 • Web: www.hungrylions.co.uk Mobile: 07754 501617 • E-mail: ali.hungrylions@gmail.com

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Enjoy the magic of a one hour steam train ride as Santa visits you at your seat with a gift for every child.

DATES FROM 30TH NOVEMBER - 24TH DECEMBER FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK CLICKETY CLICK TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

little darlings

107

BaBy’s Best Friend

Got the house, got the kids - what's next? With celebrities and royalty alike choosing to bring a four-legged friend into their lives, how do you choose which breed is right for you and your family? boxer If you love long walks, this dog is for you, as Boxers are energetic, loyal and fun-loving.

Highly intelligent, they enter into the spirit of the most riotous family games. Hardy and full of stamina, they like to get wet and muddy but their short coat is easy to clean.

stafforDshire bull terrier

his TV work on BBC’s Animal Park, Countryfile, Crufts, One Man and His Dog and Extreme Dreams, ITV's Countrywise and Harbour Lives and Channel 5's New LIves in the Wild and Animal Clinic is no stranger to dogs. He met his wife whilst walking their dogs and the couple now have two children.

Here, he gives his recommendations for the perfect familyfriendly pooches.

“Many dogs are good with children and any dog, if trained and socialised properly, can make a wonderful family pet.

Here are some of my favourites,” says Ben.

PErFECT MATCH To find out more about the characteristics of different breeds, take a look at The Kennel Club’s website. It helps you choose the right breed for you and shows you how to introduce dogs to children. They believe that well trained dogs offer wonderful benefits for responsible families and show how a proper training and socialisation routine helps.

Find out more at www.thekennelclub.org.uk

108

little darlings

cocKer sPaniel An active, happy dog that adapts himself to his surroundings, they're loved by owners like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Easy to train, intelligent and affectionate, they love foraging around fields and hedgerows and to show off how clever they are.

Often found with a toy or slipper in his mouth, tail wagging furiously, waiting for praise.

imaGes courtesy of the Kennel club Picture library/Diane Pearce

Presenter, writer and adventurer Ben Fogle, best known for

Though the Staffy has suffered from bad press, it's one of the most popular terriers and they make surprisingly good family pets – in fact, they're nicknamed ‘The Nanny Dog’. Loyal and tenacious, they have a great deal of intelligence and a short, easy-care coat.

labraDor One of the best all-round dogs, the Labrador loves retrieving games and is an excellent water dog, so watch them jump into ponds and puddles. They adore children and have a kind and loving nature and a confident air. Though often seen in the city, they love spending time in rural surroundings.

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

fashion fashion

choosing choosinga peta pet

doggie doggie

STOCKIST: WWW.CREATURECLOTHES.COM

STOCKIST: WWW.CREATURECLOTHES.COM

What Whatare aredesigner designerdogs dogswearing wearingthis thisseason? season?Ben BenFogle Foglehas has created Creature Clothes to solve your doggie dilemas. created Creature Clothes to solve your doggie dilemas.

Leads £41.50 Leads £41.50

Made with strong Made with strong yetyet supple supple leather, these leather, these leads come in in leads come lots of of colours lots colours andand sizes.

Your sizes.

Your pooch will be be pooch will thethe envy of of envy others in in thethe others park. park.

DogDog BedBed Cover 38.50 Cover 38.50 This clever This clever cover converts cover converts an an old, saggy old, saggy single quilt single quilt into a stylish into a stylish dogdog bedbed in in twotwo minutes minutes flat.

Machine flat.

Machine washable. washable.

Union Flag Union Flag Cushion £106 Cushion £106

TheThe ultimate dogdog ultimate bed, each piece bed, each piece of of thethe Union Union Flag is is sewn Flag sewn on on oneone by by one. one.

TheThe covers areare covers removable andand removable fully machine fully machine washable. washable.

Bone Baby Bone Baby £6.60 £6.60

A cute toytoy with A cute with eco-friendly eco-friendly credentials, credentials, this is is made this made from fleece offfrom fleece offcuts.

Great forfor cuts.

Great retrievers whowho retrievers like to to carry a a like carry toytoy around. around.

Slip-on Slip-on Bandana £9 £9 Bandana

Give your mutt Give your mutt instant cool instant cool with this with this bandana that bandana that slips over slips over hishis collar. collar.

Embroidered with Embroidered with a bone, it it comes a bone, comes in in twotwo sizes. sizes.

BenBen also supports Battersea Cats andand Dogs Home.

If If youyou would like to to donate visit www.battersea.org.uk also supports Battersea Cats Dogs Home. would like donate visit www.battersea.org.uk

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com www.littledarlingsmagazine.com www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

109 109109

little darlings little darlings little darlings

let's make

you will need

Card Scraps of paper, wrapping paper, shiny and gold paper Round-ended scissors Paint brushes Paints in festive colours PVA Glue Jewel stickers and sequins

2

LET'S MAKE

3

A CROWN CHRISTMAS CARD 1

2

3

4 5 6 7

4

5

6

8 9

7

110

little darlings

8

9

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY AND INSTRUCTIONS FROM 100 CHRISTMAS THINGS TO MAKE & DO, ÂŁ7.99 FROM USBORNE BOOKS WWW.USBORNE.COM/CHRISTMAS

1

method For textured papers for the crowns, paint scraps of paper or card. Brush on another shade when the paint's dry.

For the crown, cut a rectangle then cut two triangles into the top edge.

Cut a thick strip of red wrapping paper, shiny paper or textured paper and glue it across the bottom of the crown.

Cut a strip of gold paper and glue it across the points. Then, trim the strip at each end and between the points.

Cut thin strips of gold paper and glue them on the red. Then, glue an orange strip across the bottom.

For a rounded crown, draw a shape like this on textured or shiny paper.

Cut it out.

Glue a strip of paper across the bottom and glue little strips along it. Then, cut three thin triangles and glue them on.

Cut a round shape from paper and glue it on the top of the crown. Then, fingerprint a jewel in the middle.

Make more crowns from the papers. Then, glue them onto a folded piece of cardboard or thick paper, to make a card.

COMPETITION

Win COSATTO’S SUPA™ STROLLER Cosatto’s Supa is a clever umbrella folding stroller. With lots of fab features, it’s a souped-up yet lightweight stroller with attitude and comes in five fun designs.

With a smart free-standing folded option and fantastic one-handed, four position recline (including a lie-flat option for newborns), it has intuitive features such as lockable front swivel wheels and adjustable handles. Your little superhero gets in-flight entertainment thanks to the multimedia gadget pocket in the hood with speaker. It comes complete with a reversible four way cosytoes with kangaroo pouch and reversible zip-off fleece liner and an amazing four year guarantee.

To win, head to the Little Darlings website and answer the following question:

WIN

how many colours does the supa come in? www.littledarlingsmagazine.com/win

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: BY ENTERING THIS FREE COMPETITION YOU AGREE TO RECEIVE COSATTO COMMUNICATIONS WITH LATEST NEWS AND SPECIAL OFFERS. YOU CAN UNSUBSCRIBE EASILY AT ANY TIME, BY FOLLOWING THE CLEAR UNSUBSCRIBE LINK ON OUR EMAILS. COSATTO WILL ONLY SEND YOU EMAILS WE FEEL ARE USEFUL AND RELEVANT TO YOU. WE WILL NOT PASS YOUR EMAIL TO OTHER THIRD PARTIES.

Untitled-5 39

04/11/2013 17:

Gorgeous things for you, your children & special little people in your life.

Quote Little Darl to get 15%ings o all gifts ff Delivery 2 days all year round!

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

until Dec ember 2013

www.darlinganddarling.com

little darlings

111

we love / we hate

WE LOVE: WE HATE do babies enjoy being swaddled? yes

Swaddling is an age-old practise of wrapping a baby’s body in a light sheet or muslin. It has been used for 1000s of years in varying forms and its devotees swear by it to calm a restless baby. Yet some fear it may restrict baby's movements or cause them to overheat. We talk to two mums with strong opinions...

no

Alice Hanby is mum to Jet, two and pregnant with her second child.

“I had heard quite a bit about swaddling when I was pregnant with Jet and a couple of friends from ante-natal classes swore by it. But when I had Jet, he seemed to love sleeping with his arms and legs splayed out like a starfish. I did try to wrap him in the early days but was really worried that he would overheat. Although he slept quite well, I was awake half the night checking his temperature! As he grew, he began to dislike being restricted and so I came to the decision it was really not for us. I know some babies love the comforting feeling but the combination of a wriggly, active sleeper and my worry was too much. After a couple of weeks, we swapped to a sleeping bag and he's been happy ever since.

Faye Norton is a former Night Nanny and mum to three young children.

"I think babies like swaddling as it makes them feel snug and secure. When a baby is born they have just been in the very restrictive environment of the womb, so swaddling helps mimic that closeness. When working as a Night Nanny, I saw so many babies benefit from the act of swaddling. Many babies startle themselves awake, throwing their arms in the air as they are falling asleep; this is called the Moro reflex. Swaddling helps reduce this and helps babies feel more settled and sleep for longer periods without being disturbed. I have also seen babies instantly stop crying as soon as they are swaddled. There are many different ways to swaddle a baby, you can leave their arms or legs out, and there are a number of different folding styles. My sons loved it."

Want to try it? Here are our expert tips:

JOIN THE DISCUSSION Do you love or hate to swaddle?

Head to our Facebook page to join the discussion

next issue: 'is it natural to eat your placenta after birth?'

112

little darlings

✪ Only swaddle your baby in a thin sheet or Muslin, never a fleece or thick blanket. ✪ Always lay your baby on its back when swaddled, never on their tummy.

✪ Do not add too many layers over the baby when swaddled, check the baby does not feel too hot and never cover their head.

✪ The baby should feel snug but not restricted and should still be able to move their legs beneath the swaddle.

✪ Always un-swaddle your baby when breastfeeding to allow freedom of movement for the baby and skin to skin contact.

✪ Do not use when the baby is over three months or has leant to roll over.

www.facebook.com/littledarlingsmag www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

y

Quote DARL10 for 10% personalised celebration jewellery off

www.chambersandbeau.com enquiries@chambersandbeau.com personalised celebration jewellery tel: 07979 800441 www.chambersandbeau.com enquiries@chambersandbeau.com tel: 07979 800441

Dribblebuster

• Allergy Free • Natural Choice

100% natural sun care, cosmetics, Bamboo baby cuddle towel and much more

™

The fashion bib for dribbly babies

The fashion bib for dribbly babies

www.dribblebuster.co.uk

DOGS DON’T DO BALLET

www.green-bear.co.uk

Enter LD01 for 10% discount on all products

‘a rollicking romp of a show’

11 DECEMBER 2013– 2 FEBRUARY 2014

Time Out

Suitable for age 2–6

This play is based on the original book Dogs Don’t Do Ballet © 2010 text by Anna Kemp, illustrations by Sara Ogilvie.First published in the United Kingdom by Simon and Schuster UK Ltd

BOX OFFICE 020 7226 1787 LITTLEANGELTHEATRE.COM

Create a Lasting Impression

www.touchonsilver.co.uk 07884 438 757 or 07775 873 458 www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

5 % t on r £7 013 10 oun ove gs2 sc s lin Di ase Dar h rc de pu co e us

Touch on Silver

Individual personalised charms in precious silver. little darlings

113

stockists

I WANT ONE! Where to buy

114

ASOS

cravematernity.co.uk

KIDDY

SELFRIDGES

asos.com

CREATURE CLOTHES

kiddy.de

selfridges.com

AUDI

creatureclothes.com

KIDZ N CATZ

SERAPHINE

audi.co.uk

DIOR

petalinadolls.co.uk

seraphine.com

AVEDA

dior.com

LAURA MERCIER

SHU UEMURA

aveda.co.uk

DOUBLE FLIP

lauramercier.com

shuuemura.co.uk

BABYBJORN

double-flip.com

LORNA SYSON

SILVER CROSS

babybjorn.co.uk

ELEMIS

lornasyson.com

silvercrossbaby.com

BABES WITH BABIES

elemis.com

MAXI-COSI

SKIPHOP

babeswithbabies.com

FARROW AND BALL

maxi-cosi.co.uk

skiphop.com

BARBOUR

farrow-ball.com

MADELEINE THOMPSON

SNOW+ROCK

barbour.com/uk

FELT RUGS

madeleine-thompson.com

snowandrock.com

BARTS

feltrugs.co.uk

MAMAS & PAPAS

STELLA MCCARTNEY

barts.eu

FIRED EARTH

uk.mamasandpapas.com

stellamccartney.com

BEBECAR

firedearth.com

MINI OBJECTS OF DESIRE

STELLE AUDIO

bebecar.com

GAP

miniobjectsofdesire.com

stelleaudio.com

BETSEY JARVIS

gap.eu

MULBERRY

STILA

betsyjarvis.co.uk

GESSLEIN

mulberry.com

stila.co.uk

BLUEWELL THEME BEDS

gesslein.de

MUTSY

STOKKE

bluewellthemebeds.co.uk

GIORGIO ARMANI

mutsy.com

stokke.com

BOBBI BROWN

armanibeauty.co.uk

PARTY PIECES

SUGARJACK

bobbibrown.co.uk

GRACO

partypieces.co.uk

sugarjack.com

BONPOINT

gracobaby.com

PHIL & TEDS

SWIMFIN

bonpoint.com/gb

HALFORDS

philandteds.com

swimfin.co.uk

BRAVADO

halfords.com

PHILIP B

TED BAKER

bravadodesigns.com

HARRODS

philipb.com

debenhams.com

BRITAX

harrods.com

PLANTABOX

THEIR NIBS

britax.co.uk

HEALS

plantabox.co.uk

theirnibs.com

BUGABOO

heals.co.uk

QL LONDON

THE LETTER ROOM

bugaboo.com

ICANDY

qllondon.com

theletteroon.com

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE

icandyworld.com

QUINNY MOODD

TIE RACK

bumbleandbumble.co.uk

IKEA

quinny.com

tie-rack.co.uk

BUMBLERIDE

ikea.com

RACHEL RILEY

TOM FORD

bumbleride.com

IL TUTTO

rachelriley.co.uk

tomford.com

CARAMEL BABY & CHILD

iltutto.co.uk

RALPH LAUREN

TORRO

caramel-shop.co.uk

ISABELLA OLIVIER

ralphlauren.co.uk

hauckuk.com

CHLOE

isabellaolivier.com/uk

RANGE ROVER

TOYOTA

chloe.com

IT'S A WOODEN WORLD

landrover.com

toyota.co.uk

CLARINS

itsawoodenworld.com

RITUALS

TRISH MCEVOY

clarins.co.uk

JAWBONE

uk.rituals.com

trishmcevoy.com

CLARKS

jawbone.com

ROCK-A-BYE ROSIE

TRUNKI

clarks.co.uk

JOHN LEWIS

rock-a-bye-rosie.com

trunki.com

COCOBACI

johnlewis.com

ROTHSCHILD AND BICKERS

VITAL BABY

cocobaci.com

JOJO MAMAN BÉBÉ

rothschildbickers.com

vitalbaby.co.uk

CONTENT AND CALM

jojomamanbebe.co.uk

ROWEN AND WREN

VOLKWAGEN

contentandcalm.com

JOOLZ

rowenandwren.co.uk

volkswagen.co.uk

COSATTO

my-joolz.co.uk

RUTH ELIZABETH DESIGN

VOYAGE CARRIER

cosatto.com

JUNE AINSCOURGH

makeitred.com

littlelife.co.uk

COX & COX

juneainscourgh.com

SCOTCH SHRUNK

YSL

coxandcox.co.uk

KIDDIWINKS

scotch-soda.com

yslbeauty.co.uk

CRAVE

kidiwinks.com

little darlings

buggy lust! see page 36

SERAPHINE Bella Dress £225

Cute cushions see page 65

BUGGABOO Cameleon £799

Dress like a princess see page 29

LORNA SYSON Robin Cushion £44

TOM FORD Lip colour £36

paint it red! see page 77

tweet us!

Scan with your smartphone to go straight to our twitter page

www.littledarlingsmagazine.com

Bodyguard Hauck launched the Bodyguard car seat earlier this year and to receive not one but two Gold awards confirms we have delivered a Group 11/111 car seat that offers comfort, safety and versatility to families travelling with children.

phone: 01978 664 362

mail: info@hauckuk.com

web: www.hauckuk.com

Visit the UK’s home of Father Christmas “It really does cast a Christmas spell it’s beautifully done” THE SUNDAY TIMES

NEW LOCATION FOR 2013 WINDSOR ESTATE

“LaplandUK is the Rolls Royce of Christmas experiences” Carrie Longton, founder MUMSNET

BO EAROK SOL LY DO 2012 UT

LaplandUK, the ultimate family Christmas adventure

www.laplanduk.co.uk | Call 0871 620 7063 Swinley Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 8BD – one mile from Ascot and 7 miles from Windsor.

(Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras)