baby JULY/AUGUST 2017
BABYSURREY.CO.UK
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AIL S E FOR DET
PREPARE FOR BIRTH Making the right choice for you
Your local guide
Family days out
ON TEST
We review the Mountain Buggy Holiday special
THE TRUTH ABOUT ZIKA
THE BIG SPLASH! Discover the joys of
swimming from birth
For the love of…
SUMMER
• BEST BABY CARRIERS • SEASONAL WEANING RECIPES • SUNSHINE FASHION FOR BABY
SCREEN TIME How much is too much?
£2.99
Wave Family planning As all parents know, it’s good to plan ahead. With this thought in mind, we created the Wave – a flexible travel system designed to carry your newborn in comfort and style, yet future-proofed for the arrival of a second baby. All available in one ready-to-go package. So, whatever the plans for your family, visit: Selected nursery specialists nationwide silvercrossbaby.com
CONTENTS
baby Editor-in-Chief Kate Freud Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Features Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West Publisher Caroline Scott Finance Director Vicki Gavin Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Chatty Dobson, Ginny Maclean Marketing Executive Catrina Linz Head of Market Freddy Halliday Sales Executives Harriet Cottrell, Emma Payne Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby Surrey is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: editorial@littlemedia.co.uk
Baby Surrey Print ISSN 1757-6156 Online ISSN 2059-9838 | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2017 All rights reserved
JU LY/AUGUST 2017
FEATURES
37 TOT GEAR We put the Mountain Buggy Duet through its paces, and round up the latest strolling products to get your hands on 40 THE MOTHER OF ALL WORRIES Postnatal anxiety is more common than you might think – here’s how you can manage it 44 THE BIRTH YOU WANT Discover more about the birth options available to you 54 IN THE SWIM OF THINGS Realise the benefits of taking to the pool with your little one 60 SUMMER FLAVOURS TO SAVOUR Make the most of the season’s bounty with these family-friendly weaning dishes 68 IS YOUR BABY PLUGGED IN? How damaging is screen time for our children? Georgina Blaskey investigates 70 HAPPY HOLIDAYS How to keep your child’s learning fun over the summer
STYLE
19
SUBSCRIBE Enjoy our special subscription offer and you’ll receive Baby Surrey magazine for a year, delivered straight to your door, all for just £18. Plus, we’ll send you a £20 JoJo Maman Bébé gift voucher absolutely FREE! Simply visit:
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SHOP THE THEMES From ice creams to rainbows, these pieces are guaranteed to add some summer cheer 28 YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE Summer stripes, fun prints and cool colour; baby’s beach wardrobe beckons!
REGULARS
9
Back Issues chelseamagazines.com/shop
15
PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY
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35
43 PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: MARGOT Margot wears cotton-blend dress and matching bloomers, £67, Hucklebones London.
BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small DATES FOR YOUR DIARY What’s hot around Surrey over the next two months HOLIDAY TALES Book releases perfect for your little one’s summer travels PARTY TIME: BABY SHOWERS Carole Middleton shares her planning tips for welcoming your new arrival DIARY OF A MUM Spoons at the ready: Martha Alexander shares her daughter’s weaning journey Snap up these gorgeous baby shower gift ideas
Kingsley wears cotton-blend vest, £38, My Little Cozmo at The Mini Edit
28 47 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ This issue we explore how you can boost your breast milk 48 MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals 51 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Chiara Hunt of The Bump Class give the lowdown on the Zika virus 52 THE REVIEW The best baby carriers to help you get around this summer 59 FOOD NEWS The latest offerings for mini diners and busy families 65 DIARY OF A NIGHT NANNY Georgie Bateman is on hand to help one mother with her baby’s dummy battle 67 EDUCATION NEWS All you need to know from the classroom 72 MEET THE HEAD Behind the scenes at Rowan Prep, Esher 75 MINI AGENDA What’s going on in and around the county throughout July and August 81 CHANCE TO WIN Exclusive giveaways and offers for Baby Surrey readers 82 INSPIRE Talking business with Alice Hedley of baby shoe label Amy & Ivor
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BUGABOO CAMELEON3 KITE THE ONE THAT’S INSPIRED BY FREEDOM • • • •
easy-open canopy window unique geometric print lining three-layer muslin blanket handstitched leather-look trim learn more at www.bugaboo.com © Copyright 2017 Bugaboo® International BV
If you’re looking for some seriously stylish holiday clothes for baby, Boden’s summer range is practical and dreamy From a selection at boden.co.uk Personalised basket £170, raefeather.com
EDITORʼS
LETTER
Printed kaftan £42, octaviahix.com
KATE FREUD, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
KEE
Join us online… BabySurrey
@BabySurrey
UR
S
Swim shorts £85, vilebrequin.com
PU
P-TO-DAT ISIT • E, V
We’d love to hear what you think about our latest issue
• B A BY
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
Sunnylife inflatable £49.88, en.smallable.com
most mothers-to-be, but Dr Asma Khalil, consultant obstetrician and fetal medicine specialist at The Portland Hospital discusses how to get the birth you want (p.44). And nutritionist Louise Pyne explains the best things to eat to boost your breast milk once baby has safely arrived (p.47). I remember when my babies were small I was surprised by how anxious I felt, but for some mothers this can become an overwhelming problem. Becky Dickinson looks at the surprisingly common phenomenon of postnatal anxiety (p.40). Georgina Blaskey reveals how much screen time your little one should really be having (p.68) and before you book your summer holiday, make sure you read The Bump Class’s invaluable and up-to-date advice on the Zika virus (p.51). And finally, if you’re reading this without your babe in arms just yet, Carole Middleton shows you how to throw the perfect baby shower (p.35). Enjoy!
K
Mini Melissa jelly shoes £52, childrensalon.com
Ah, for the love of summer! From picnics in the park with your little ones to stealing an evening for yourself spent dining al fresco with good company and a glass of chilled rosé in hand, it’s a time to really appreciate all the county has to offer. But it’s also a time when life as a parent somehow becomes just a little simpler. I love that as the weather warms up it means less layers to put on and peel off with each outdoor adventure. Less clothes to wash. Less time spent in soft-play centres. And more time enjoying the simple things in life: watching your baby feeling the grass between their toes for the first time, tasting their first summer fruits or squealing with delight while sitting in a makeshift washing-up bowl paddling pool in the garden. So, in celebration of this and so much more, we’ve put together a summer diary of outdoor events to enjoy with the whole family (p.75), and cherry-picked the best tropical-inspired fashion for baby to wear (p.28). We also have a comprehensive guide to baby swimming, which many parents are often surprised to hear can be enjoyed from birth (p.54). The thought of childbirth is daunting for
R E Y.C O
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NEWS
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LITTLE ANGELS
Olivier Baby & Kids has created a special capsule collection to raise funds for FAST UK – the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics. The genetic disorder affects the nervous system, causing severe disabilities. Cashmere rompers and sweaters feature sweet angel wings on the reverse, crafted from Liberty print fabrics. The range is available in sizes newborn to four years, with all proceeds going to the charity. olivierbaby.com
SHOPPING FOR BABY CAN BE A MINEFIELD FOR FIRST-TIME PARENTS. THANKFULLY, THE BABY SERVICE IN CHOBHAM IS ON HAND TO HELP. THE APPOINTMENT-ONLY SHOPPING CONCIERGE WILL TAILOR A LIST OF PRODUCTS, FROM PUSHCHAIRS AND BAGS TO A COMPLETE NURSERY SET, BASED ON YOUR NEEDS. IT CAN ADVISE ON NURSES AND NANNIES, TOO. THEBABYSERVICE.COM
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 9
NEWS
THE BEST OF BRANDS If it’s independent children’s brands you’re after, new online boutique Marshes & Flint is the name to know. With a mix of labels, from local start-ups like Willa & The Bear to cult favourites Aden + Anais, you’ll find clothing, toys and homeware for every mood. The founders also offer a bespoke service, bringing their pop-up to your home for a shopping experience like no other. marshesandflint.co.uk
GIRL POWER Superhero Collective is looking to go global with its new Kickstarter campaign. The online marketplace sells a range of sustainable children’s clothing, toys and décor from brands all founded and run by mothers. If the target is achieved, there are plans to launch the site in Europe, empowering even more women around the world. superhero-collective.com
The sweet baby designs feature wooden buttons and the brand’s signature polka dots
TREND SPOTTING
The new Diddy Dotty designs from children’s favourite Dotty Dungarees are made from pure combed cotton jersey. The range features rompers and dresses with the brand’s signature polka-dot print in adorable shades of pale blue, pink and grey. Sizes start from newborn to 12 months. £30, dottydungarees.com
THE WORLD’S A STAGE Little Street has opened its third facility in West Byfleet. The children’s role-play centre recreates a typical town, including a replica construction site, stables, medical centre and theatre, where kids are encouraged to interact and mimic real-life situations. From £5.85 per child. 42 Station Approach, little-street.co.uk
NEW RESEARCH BY PARENTING COMMUNITY CHANNEL MUM HAS FOUND THAT ALMOST TWICE AS MANY MOTHERS-TO-BE WANT GIRLS OVER BOYS, WITH A QUARTER FEELING DISAPPOINTED IF THE BABY IS THE OTHER SEX. ON THE OTHER HAND, DADS ARE THREE TIMES MORE LIKELY TO WANT SONS, WITH ONLY ONE IN 10 WISHING FOR A DAUGHTER. CHANNELMUM.COM
10 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
BIRDS AND THE BEES Answer their questions about pregnancy – even the awkward ones – with new book 9 Months. Written by Babyccino founders Courtney Adamo and Esther van de Paal, it helps children of all ages understand how babies develop, with sweet illustrations and no-nonsense facts. £12.99, Frances Lincoln
A NATURAL PAIRING
SUPERMARKET SWEEP Waitrose has unveiled baby clothing as part of its new line for little ones; charming prints and embroidery feature on babygrows, bloomers and more. The Waitrose Mini collection also includes skincare and laundry items, so you can pick up all you need alongside your regular food shop. From £3, waitrose.com
Mamas & Papas’ new limited edition collection with nursery label Bunny & Clyde is designed to grow with baby, and includes a cot that transforms into a toddler bed, a changer that turns into a dresser and a rocking chair. Handcrafted in solid, sustainable birch wood, the sleek collection has an art deco feel that’s synonymous with Bunny & Clyde’s signature geometric designs. Be sure to get in quick though – there’s only 100 of each item available! From £599, mamasandpapas.com
CARTOON COOL
MILKING IT You’ll notice a distinctive difference about new board book What Does Baby Want? by Japanese design duo Tupera Tupera, which tells the story of a hungry baby and his breastfeeding mother. Perfect for reading aloud to nursing babies and their older siblings. Out 26 June. £8.95, Phaidon
Vans and Peanuts are collaborating again for an upcoming autumn collection that’s sure to put a spring in their step. The range brings back Charles M Shultz’s iconic 60s and 70s characters atop Vans’ classic footwear styles and apparel for men, women and children, with special toddler designs featuring vintage Snoopy and his alteregos. From £32, vans.co.uk
CHILDREN’S TV SERIES IN THE NIGHT GARDEN HAS TEAMED UP WITH THE NSPCC TO OFFER PARENTS SUPPORT ON BONDING WITH BABY AND COPING WITH STRESS. THE DEDICATED WEB PAGE INCLUDES ADVICE AND, LATER THIS SUMMER, A RANGE OF BLANKETS AND CUSHIONS FEATURING THE POPULAR CHARACTERS WILL GO ON SALE FOR CHARITY. NSPCC.ORG.UK
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 11
+44 (0)1978 664362
www.hauckuk.com
info@hauckuk.com
WITH THANKS TO: SIGNATURE MODELS
baby
Larnie
PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEN COPSEY
As you can tell from this adorable snap, Larnie is always laughing and shows an interest in everything, particularly when the camera comes out. She lives with her mum and dad in Canvey Island, Essex. babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 13
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LITTLE LONDON AWARDS
Cast your votes…
JULY
Now in its third year, the Little London Awards are back! Don’t miss your chance to vote for your favourite brands in the baby world, and you could win a holiday to the luxury Kurumba family resort in the Maldives. Yes please! littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/awards
4 BIRD SONG
Flying into the Gro Company’s range today is Ollie the Owl, an adorable sleep aid with built-in cry sensor technology. He plays four soothing sounds; heartbeat, rainfall, white noise and a lullaby. £34.99, mothercare.com
17 IT’S A MATCH
The adorable Animals at Home by Claudia Boldt teaches little ones about their favourite animals and their habitats. Pair the rabbit to his warren, a fox to his den and a hamster to her hutch. Pick up a copy from today. £12.99, laurenceking.com
21
MUSEUM MONKEYS Little ones under the age of five can join Charlie the Chimp at Chertsey Museum on selected days this summer for singing, stories and crafts. Booking in advance required. £5 per child; additional siblings, £2.50; under-ones go free. chertseymuseum.org
dates for your Animals at Home by Claudia Boldt £12.99, laurence king.com
DIARY
Pens at the ready, we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy for the next two months
29 GET OUT OF TOWN
Make the most of the weekend at baby’s first festival! Family-friendly Camp Bestival will be providing more fun and frolics at Lulworth Castle in Dorset from 27-30 July. Babies under one year go free; adult tickets start from £65. campbestival.net WHERE TO EAT...
Time for tapas With four restaurants across the county, Thai food favourite Giggling Squid has recently launched a brand new menu, named Little Tapas for Little People. For just £5.95, kids can choose two dishes, from mild curries and noodles to rice dishes and finger food. Unlimited plain or sticky rice is available, too! gigglingsquid.com
The stylish new SnüzKot makes its debut this August SnüzKot from £349, snuz.co.uk
30 CELEBRATE
FRIENDSHIP DAY
Whether you choose to enjoy a morning with the NCT girls, or a picnic playdate with your little one’s bestie – make sure you surround yourself with your nearest and dearest today, as it’s International Friendship Day!
AUGUST 1 SNÜZ TIME
From the brand that brought you the bedside crib SnüzPod, today sees the launch of the cot bed version – the SnüzKot! From £349, snuz.co.uk
5 DATE NIGHT
Cosy up under the stars as the Luna Cinema airs Notting Hill at Ascot Racecourse tonight at 9pm. thelunacinema.com
10 WIN BIG
Today’s your last chance to enter our comps! babysurrey. co.uk/competitions
13 TIME TRAIL
Play like Georgian royalty on Claremont Landscape Garden’s Princes & Princesses trail. Today’s your final opportunity to enjoy the themed walk around the garden, learning all about the royalty who lived there. 50p per trail, nationaltrust.org.uk
7 SPIDEY SENSES 18 DINO DAYS For five days only, Birdworld will transform into mini-beast mania as creepy crawlies take over the park on Mini Beast Safari Week. birdworld.co.uk
Little explorers can discover the delights of Dinosaur World at G Live’s interactive new show from today. Suitable from age three. glive.co.uk
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 15
COMPETITION
WIN!
A PERSONALISED JOOLZ DAY² TAILOR The Day2 Tailor boasts Joolz’s signature luxe fabrics and stylish accents
Y
ou are unique. Your baby is unique. So naturally you want your pushchair to be unique, too. We’ve joined forces with Joolz, the premium pushchair brand that fuses Dutch design with a luxury aesthetic, to offer you the chance to win the pushchair of your dreams. Joolz’s latest creation, the Day² Tailor, is set to hit the UK at the end of 2017, but you could be one of the first to own one. Firstly, choose one of two fabric colours; silver or grey, then your wheel colour, and finally, finish your Joolz with one of 20 colour accents for your handle and bumper bar. With a whole host of new and improved features, the
WORTH £1,119
pushchair offers comfort, style and sustainability together in one design. The super-smooth fold, easyaccess, extra-large shopping basket and adjustable handlebar ensure you’re all set – from those very first strolls with your newborn in the carrycot, to trips to the park in seat mode with a toddler. The Joolz Day² Tailor also comes complete with a matching lightweight nursery bag for all your baby bounty, and a footmuff to keep your little one cosy. So what are you waiting for? Your custom ride is just an online entry away… bs
To enter, visit babysurrey.co.uk/competitions COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 10 AUGUST 2017. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MY-JOOLZ.CO.UK
16 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
RUNNING HEAD
2017
Have you voted yet? êêêê ê
FIVE STAR R E S OR T
Vote today for your chance to WIN a luxury family holiday in the Maldives A destination in itself, the stunning Kurumba Maldives was the first private island resort in the Maldives. Just 10 minutes by speedboat from the airport and Malé, the resort draws on its proud history and dedicated service to offer families a compelling experience amid a cosmopolitan island setting, with a variety of accommodation options and a diverse choice of restaurants and bars. Young explorers can also make the most of the Majaa Kids’ Club, which offers a varied programme of events for little ones.
Fun in the sun: Kurumba Maldives is a slice of bliss for beach-loving families
Enter now at littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/awards TERMS & CONDITIONS: PRIZE INCLUDES ACCOMMODATION IN A DELUXE BUNGALOW FOR FIVE NIGHTS, MAXIMUM TWO ADULTS AND TWO CHILDREN (CHILDREN UP TO 11 YEARS OLD), ON A BED & BREAKFAST BASIS. INCLUDES RETURN SHARED AIRPORT TRANSFERS, ONE SUNSET CRUISE EXCURSION FOR THE FAMILY, ONE GLASS BOTTOM BOAT EXCURSION FOR THE FAMILY AND ONE SNORKELLING SAFARI EXCURSION FOR THE FAMILY. FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED.
18 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
From a selection nobodinoz.com
Guimo cotton canvas banner £23, shak-shuka.com
A Little Lovely Company night light £14, decobaby.co.uk
Engel bamboo plate (part of a set) £23, decobaby.co.uk
Emile et Ida cotton T-shirt £25.80, en.smallable.com
SUNDAE’S CHILD Harness this summer’s coolest motif and scoop up these super-sweet ice cream designs. Talk about a sugar rush…
LED light garland £16.95, alittlelovelycompany.nl High chair £199.99, babybjorn.co.uk
Cotton jersey leggings £13, lilcubs.co.uk Cotton sleeping bag from £23.50, gro-store.com
Cotton cardigan £19.95, gap.co.uk
Dapperbaby denim romper £38, lobellaloves.com
Knitted cotton rattle £6.75, bestyears.co.uk
Mini Melissa sandals £40, alexandalexa.com
Lulujo cotton muslin blanket £11.95, potwells.co.uk
Le Toy Van wooden gelato set £20, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 19
SHOPPING Leather moccasins £40, amyandivor.com
Plan Toys wooden stacking tree £15.95, consciouscraft.co.uk
Organic cotton romper £34, palava.co From a selection mariechantal.co.uk Baby Liberta cotton bodysuit £27, milieethector.com
GREEN PARTY
Take inspiration from the natural world with a verdant palette and flamboyant foliage. It’s a jungle out there! Cotton rattle £12, olliella.com
Kalon Studio crib £1,160, nubie.co.uk Rice DK melamine cup £4.99, sistersguild.co.uk
Soft Gallery cotton-blend babygrow £34.95, harrods.com
Limited-edition BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One £134.99, johnlewis.com Mini-A-Ture cotton-blend T-shirt £27, milieethector.com
Fiona Walker faux cactus plant £29, bijoulifestyle.co.uk
Lorena Canals cotton rug £110, cuckooland.com Organic cotton muslin blanket £21, littlebabycompany.com 20 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
Soft Gallery cotton sweater £39.56, en.smallable.com
BUY TWO PRODUCTS & GET OUR STORY BOOK WORTH £16! CODE:
SLEEPTIME1
ENCHANTING, BIOORGANIC, LUXURY SKINCARE for LITTLE ONES Introducing Little Aurelia from multi award-winning Aurelia Probiotic Skincare, designed for babies and little ones. Little Aurelia blends gentle yet effective botanical ingredients with soothing essential oils to calm and settle at bath time and before bed.
www.aureliaskincare.com/littleaurelia
The Little Gym Parent Child classes The Little Gym Parent Child classes provide a great foundation for your wondrous little one. Our classes promote early development while enhancing the special bond between you and your child.
Join us for a free introductory class. PARENT/CHILD CLASSES • PRE-SCHOOL & PRIMARY SCHOOL GYMNASTICS • AWESOME BIRTHDAY BASHES • CAMPS
The Little Gym Cobham • Unit 3 Silverglade Business Park, Leatherhead Road • Surrey KT9 2QL • 07541 636 665 • cobham@thelittlegym.eu • www.cobham.thelittlegym.eu
Building
FRIENDSHIPS,
FUN & CONFIDENCE ONE GIGGLE AT A TIME
TRY US OUT!
At The Little Gym®, we take a non-competitive, progressive approach to motor skill development. Children aged 4 months to 12 years, learn at an age appropriate pace, building upon past achievements as they advance week to week and semester to semester.
Limited spaces are still available for Classes and 3 hour Camps over the Summer. BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment. Autumn Semester classes are also available to new members from 4 July.
Call us on 07541 01372 636 738055 665 PARENT/CHILD CLASSES • PRE-K & GRADE SCHOOL GYMNASTICS • AWESOME BIRTHDAY BASHES • CAMPS
SHOPPING Pom Pom Galore wool garland £16, hurnandhurn.com
RAINBOW BURST
Oeuf NYC wool pillow £77, shak-shuka.com
Let your little one show their stripes in bold prints and a dazzling spectrum of colour
Organic cotton chambray dungarees £24, welovefrugi.com
Organic cotton romper £28.45, thebonniemob.com
Grimm’s wooden puzzle toy £79.95, consciouscraft.uk From a selection boden.co.uk Tobias & The Bear X Mr Men cotton T-shirt £16, tobiasandthebear.com
Bajo wooden abacus £20, lilyandfred.co.uk
Go Everywhere waxed cotton mat £65, avery-row.com
Fly pushchair £279.95, cosatto.com Wool wall hanging £600, luluandnat.com Chloé cotton-blend T-shirt £38.99, en.smallable.com
Bamboo muslin blanket £15, storkandco.co.uk Leather trainers £54, step2wo.com
Knitted cotton sweater £62, stellamccartney.com
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 23
SHOPPING
Konges Sløjd knitted pram toy £23, cissywears.com
Cotton chambray jacket £55, wildandgorgeous.co.uk
Rice DK enamel plate £11, sistersguild.co.uk Leather pram shoes £20, bobux.co.uk Printed dress £12, next.co.uk
From a selection alexandalexa.com
Myum knitted musical toy £42.14, en.smallable.com
TUTTI FRUITTI
Printed romper £39, rachelriley.co.uk
From banana prints to watermelon toys, these cherry-picked pieces definitely pack a punch Knitted cotton rattle £12, roseandrex.com
Wee Gallery stroller cards £12, kidly.co.uk
Organic cotton romper £34, palava.co
3Sixti2 high chair £184.95, cosatto.com
Cotton romper £24.50, boden.co.uk
Tutto Piccolo jelly shoes £19, childrensalon.com 24 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
A Little Lovely Company night light £11.18, en.smallable.com
Woven Kip & Co wool blanket £89, antipodream.co.uk
Holiday tales
MAKE THIS SUMM ER’S TR AVEL S TH E HAPPIE ST, WITH Emma O’Donovan’S SELEC TION OF BOOKS FOR BABY
THE SAFARI SET
By Madeleine Rogers Set off on a sunny safari and meet the inhabitants of the savannah in this early learning animal adventure. Hippos, zebras, elephants, lions and giraffes are brought to life with a fun rhyming text and bold illustrations. £4.99, Button Books
BOOKS
Yasmeen Ismail brings little readers another delightful story about Kiki and Bobo
A HOME FOR GULLY
By Jo Clegg and Lalalimola Join gull-about-town Gully as he explores the big city looking for a home and ends up finding a family. A touching story about friendship and belonging. £6.99, Oxford University Press
THAT’S NOT MY PLANE… By Fiona Watt and Rachel Wells
Develop sensory and language awareness with this fun addition to a much-loved series. Plane illustrations with a variety of textures will be a holiday hit. £6.99, Usborne Books
BING: EGGY HEADS Join familiar friends Bing and Flop
as they get busy making their very own cressy egg heads. This story is sure to inspire lots of craft activities over the holidays. £5.99, Harper Collins
MAISY’S BUS
By Lucy Cousins Take a trip with Maisy the bus driver and all her friends as they head to the coast, in this bright, engaging board book. £5.99, Walker Books
NOODLE LOVES THE BEACH By Marion Billet
Enjoy a day at the seaside with the adorable Noodle. Digging, splashing and having fun are what holidays are made for in this
tactile tale with a rhyming story. £5.99, Nosy Crow
KIKI AND BOBO’S SUNNY DAY By Yasmeen Ismail
A beautifully witty exploration of feelings featuring confident Kiki and her shy friend Bobo. Will Kiki’s support help Bobo take the plunge and go for a swim? £10.99, Walker Books
ONE HAPPY TIGER By Catherine Rayner
This first counting book for little ones exudes sunshine from every page. Help them learn number skills while falling in love with Tiger along the way. £7.99, Little Tiger Press
LIFT-THE-FLAP AND COLOUR: OCEAN By Alice Bowsher
The perfect opportunity for little ones to start getting creative. The bold and simple line illustrations featuring underwater worlds provide the perfect canvas for toddlers to colour in. £5.99, Francis Lincoln
LOIS LOOKS FOR BOB AT THE PARK
By Min Flyte and Gerry Turley Take a jolly jaunt outdoors, searching under the flaps to help Lois find Bob. This quirky and vibrant book for young explorers is perfect for enjoying together in the garden or the park. £6.99, Nosy Crow
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 27
THIS PAGE: Raegan wears cotton dress, from £12, Next. RIGHT PAGE: Oscar wears cotton jersey vest, £23.22, + 1 In The Family at Smallable. Cotton bloomers with braces, £50.74, Babe & Tess at Smallable. Sunglasses, £60, ZooBug.
You are my
sunshine PHOTOGR APHY: KEN COPSEY ST YLING: Y VADNEY DAVIS
THIS PAGE: Wynter May wears cotton romper, £19.99, Zara. Cotton bodysuit (part of a set), from £11, Marks & Spencer. Cotton cushion, £55.90, Grampa at Smallable. Velour beach towel, £9.50, Marks & Spencer. RIGHT PAGE: Leo wears cotton romper, £80, Caramel. Cotton sun hat, £30.50, Noé + Zoë at Harrods. Cotton beach towel, £12.50, Marks & Spencer. Ice cream soft toy (part of a set), £29.99, Oskar & Ellen at Crafts 4 Kids.
THIS PAGE: Elena wears cotton romper, £44, Pepa & Co. Cotton beach towel, £12.50, Marks & Spencer. RIGHT PAGE: Leo wears cotton sweater, £92, Bonpoint. Cotton bloomers, £22, Elfie London. Cotton blanket, £35, Marks & Spencer.
SPECIAL THANKS TO: PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: GEORGIA SHANE. MODELS: ELENA, KINGSLEY, LEO, MARGOT, OSCAR, RAEGAN, TRISTAN, WYNTER MAY. MODEL AGENCIES: ALPHABET, BRUCE & BROWN, GRACE & GALOR, RAY & ROBIN, TINY ANGELS
This adorable design comes presented in a beautiful gift box
PARTIES
DECORATE
1
Sweet finishing touches for a stylish celebration
with Carole Middleton
Foil balloon £3.99, partypieces.co.uk
2
3
Baby showers Hand-tied bouquet POA, blomst.co.uk
Make this joyous occasion with friends and family one you’ll never forget
A
baby shower is a wonderful way to celebrate the impending arrival of a little one – not to mention a great way to get a group of friends together to share advice and revel in all things miniature!
4
Paper plates (pack of eight) £3.99, partypieces.co.uk
5
‘Secret Centre’ sponge cake £30, marksandspencer.com
6 1. Cotton-blend babygrow £68, mariechantal.co.uk 2. Ewan the Dream Sheep soother £29.99, johnlewis.com 3. Wool baby shawl £69.95, ghhurt.com 4. Mother & Baby Organic Collection skincare set £45, nealsyardremedies.com 5. Aden + Anais muslin swaddles £44.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk 6. Hooded towel £24, mollyandmoo.co.uk
Advice cards (pack of 10) £4.99, partypieces.co.uk
Start by picking a theme or colour scheme. If you don’t want to stick to pink or blue, a mixed palette of ice cream shades will work beautifully in the garden or indoors. Set the scene with bright floral tablecentres. Nothing says, ‘it’s a girl!’ quite like a bouquet of hot pink roses, ranunculus or carnations. For blue blooms, try delphiniums, cornflowers, hydrangeas or sweet peas. A buffet of easy-to-prepare finger foods works best for gatherings like these, or why not serve up a simple brunch? Whatever you choose, don’t forget to finish with sweet treats and cake. Passed down recipes, such as Granny’s famous carrot cake, will add a memorable and personal touch. Finally, get everyone involved with a few games. Ask your guests to write their own pearls of wisdom, or baby name ideas, and drop them into a box. Or why not try a babygrow decorating station, complete with fabric pens and paint?
Party balloons (pack of six) £2.49, partypieces.co.uk Edible biscuit card £9, biscuiteers.com
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REVIEW
TOTGEAR
Catherine Balston AN D H ER T WIN GIR L S CLOCK U P TH E MILE S WITH TH E MOU NTAIN BUGGY DU E T MOUNTAIN BUGGY DUET The Duet cruises comfortably across mud, snow and sand
My twin daughters, Frances and Marcela, turn one this week, which means not only have I made it through the first year with my sanity intact, but their Mountain Buggy Duet has proven to be a trusted four-wheel companion. Most mothers of twins I know have tandem buggies – the slim option for getting around, albeit with one child always stuck in the back seat. What first sold me on the side-by-side Mountain Buggy Duet was its claim to be no wider than a single buggy (63cm). And as yet, no door or alleyway has defeated us.
GOOD LOOKING? The Duet is definitely a looker, with a choice of colours for the seat and sun covers. The handlebar easily accommodates different heights, and the basket is tucked neatly away underneath, though this does mean you’ll be down on your knees to access it. The real innovation, however, is the buggy’s versatility. The two front-facing seats are the default, but you can buy accessories to create a jigsaw puzzle of seat options to suit your set-up – from a single seat and tote shopping basket, to two parent-facing bassinets for newborns. There’s even a scooter attachment for toddlers. I picked the Carrycot Plus, an interchangeable set of two bassinets and two parent-facing seats, to see us through from the girls’ first outing to their first birthday.
PRATICALITY & DRIVABILITY The Mountain Buggy Duet can turn corners so tight, it makes a black cab look cumbersome. Its manoeuvrability is exceptional, taking on the highest of kerbs, the knottiest of tree
roots, and gliding on and off buses with ease. With all-terrain credentials, it’s given us a great sense of freedom. We’ve been for walks along beaches in Brazil, down dirt tracks in Dorset and through snowy fields in Wiltshire, and we’ve yet to get stuck. There’s even a ski attachment for the wheels. The off-road action of Mountain Buggy owners is perhaps the reason why the standard air-filled tyres reportedly don’t survive hard wear and tear. I heard from friends, and read in a number of reviews, that tyres started to puncture after a few months. The thought of juggling two crying babies and a puncture repair kit convinced me to fork out for the puncture-proof rubber tyres from the start, and they’re still going strong. The compact design has a plethora of seat options
The twins snooze in their smooth ride
THE VERDICT The Mountain Buggy Duet has certainly lived up to its reputation as an all-terrain stroller. It’s comfortable and reliable, and has accessories that can adapt the buggy to your growing brood – although be prepared to spend around 50% more on top of the buggy price for these. The storm cover and mesh cover, and the puncture-proof tyres, were nonnegotiable for me, but the carrycot set for newborns is a nice-to-have. The standard seats recline fully, and with a lambswool liner to keep them cosy, my girls have loved cruising in the buggy right from the very start. bs From; £599, mountainbuggy.com
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 37
Summer strolling
The latest and greatest baby gear to get your hands on
ICANDY STRAWBERRY iCandy has revamped its Strawberry pushchair with six new nature-inspired colourways, featuring a luxury leatherette handle and bumper bar. £645, icandyworld.com
STOKKE ATHLEISURE COLLECTION Chic and practical, this range includes the My Carrier baby carrier and the Xplory pushchair. The mesh fabrics are super breathable, with quicky-dry properties. From £129, stokke.com
MACLAREN X DYLAN’S CANDY BAR In the mood for something sweet? Maclaren has teamed up with American confectioners Dylan’s Candy Bar to offer a capsule collection of three buggy designs. From £50, maclaren.uk
BUNDLEBEAN BUGGY ORGANISER With two Velcro straps, these organisers fit both one- and two-handled buggies. We’re definitely getting summer vibes from this flamingo design… £14.99, bundlebean.com
38 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
QUINNY ZAPP X Arriving just in time for summertime saunters, the Zapp offers one iconic frame but endless seating options, all of which slot in with just a single click. From £195, quinny.com
SILVER CROSS AVIA The new sleek and stylish Avia comes in two special editions – Eton Grey and Henley. We love that the bumper bar can be used as a carry handle, too. £225, silvercrossbaby.com
WELLBEING
The mother of all worries MOST N EW MUMS HAVE N EVER EVEN H E AR D OF POSTNATAL ANXIE T Y, BUT IT COU LD BE MOR E COMMON THAN POSTNATAL DEPR E SSION , SAYS Becky Dickinson
t doesn’t matter how many books you read, or how many antenatal classes you attend, nothing can really prepare you for the responsibility of keeping another human being alive – of caring for a tiny, vulnerable person whose primary means of communication is crying. And while the sleepless nights, sore nipples and physical effects of delivery can be painfully tangible, often it’s the inner churnings of the mind, those nebulous, corrosive thoughts that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and psychologically exhausted. Because however much you love your baby, looking after one can be, frankly, terrifying. For some women, natural worry can quickly spiral into full-blown postnatal anxiety. This can manifest itself in many ways, such as not being able to sleep when your baby is sleeping, for fear they may stop breathing. Or avoiding contact with friends and family in case they pass on any germs. Even refusing to let your child travel in a car for fear of there being an accident. Postnatal anxiety is something 41-year-old Sophie, mum to six-month-old Albie, can identify with only too well. “About a week after the birth, I began worrying about my partner going back to work. My stomach was in knots, and I was retching all the time,” she says. “I lost loads
I
of weight and felt like I couldn’t cope. I didn’t think I could look after him and thought he was going to die.” Of course, most of us fret about whether our baby is warm, happy and healthy. But when these worries become an all-consuming world of worst-case scenarios, this can be a sign of something more serious. Unlike postnatal depression (PND), many mums don’t even realise postnatal anxiety is a recognised condition, perhaps believing it’s a normal part of motherhood. But recent studies suggest it may be even more common
really well and loved him, and didn’t want anything bad to happen to him,” she says. “But I didn’t realise it would be so life-changing, I didn’t know if I was built for motherhood.” Many mums will relate to the fear of not being able to protect their baby from harm – because only when we love someone so immeasurably, do we realise that love and fear go hand-in-hand. Yet when these worries interfere with everyday activities, it’s important to seek help. Dr Christine Langhoff is a Dulwich-based psychologist, who specialises in perinatal therapies. She says: “It’s really normal to have an increased level of anxiety postpartum, and also during pregnancy. There is a change in responsibility and roles, and the lack of sleep can also impact levels of anxiety. But if it gets in the way of life or family life, causes significant distress, significantly decreases enjoyment or parenting, or impairs functioning, then it is recommended to seek help.” Unfortunately, postnatal anxiety has received little attention, and is often mistakenly diagnosed as PND. But Dr Langhoff points out there are essential differences. “In PND, often energy levels may be very low, there may be an overwhelming sense of sadness and it could be hard to do things, even getting out of bed could be tough. Anxiety is often more characterised by
IF POSTPARTUM ANXIETY GETS IN THE WAY OF FAMILY LIFE OR CAUSES DISTRESS, SEEK HELP
40 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
than PND. According to the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) around 20% of women experience perinatal mental illness during pregnancy and the first year of their babies’ lives, and for many of these women, the main problem is anxiety. Janet Fyle, midwife and professional policy advisor for the RCM, says there is a need for much greater awareness: “Postnatal anxiety is commonly overlooked by society and health professionals. There’s a lack of intervention, but the toll on women’s lives can be crippling.” In her darkest moments, Sophie wasn’t even sure if she wanted to keep her son. “I bonded
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
WELLBEING
high energy levels, as in an inability to relax, restlessness, constant worries and often an array of physiological symptoms of anxiety such as shakiness, butterflies in stomach and sometimes even panic attacks.” The key thing is not to suffer in silence, but to speak to friends, family and other mums. This can help normalise the feelings you’re experiencing. But if your worry seems excessive compared to that of others, speak to your midwife, health visitor or doctor. The good news is much can be done to manage, or even eradicate the symptoms. For some women, medication helps. Sertraline, for example, can be prescribed for both postnatal
depression and anxiety, and is compatible with breastfeeding. Dr Langhoff also recommends psychological therapies. “Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is very effective for anxiety disorders,” she says. “Moreover, the NICE guidelines would use this as a gold standard treatment approach. Other forms of psychological intervention also have good results for postpartum difficulties, such as compassionfocused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and group therapies. I generally see results with short-term therapy of six to 12 sessions, where postnatal anxiety is either resolved or manageable.’’
Meanwhile, Janet Fyle is passionate about debunking the myths and stigmas that surround maternal mental illness. “Women play down their anxieties for fear of being judged. They want to be seen as ‘tough’ but women really do need to report these issues. They won’t be judged; they will be helped and pointed in the right direction so the condition doesn’t get worse.” Fortunately, Sophie did seek help. Her symptoms have dramatically improved thanks to a combination of medication, CBT and mindfulness exercises, which have helped her to come to relish motherhood – despite the sleepless nights. bs
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 41
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1. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. 2. Based on a survey of 1000 midwives. 3. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol.18, No.5, 487-489 (1999). 4. A beneficial effect can be obtained from a maternal daily intake of 200mg DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg DHA / EPA for adults – Annex of Commission Regulations (EU) No. 440/2011. *UK’s No.1 pregnancy supplement brand. Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Unit Sales 52 w/e 3 December 2016
BABY TALK
PART
Diary of a MUM
9
Mar tha Alexander IS IN A FOOD FR ENZ Y AS ROBIN AN D TH E KITCH EN FLOOR PROPEL INTO TH EIR WE ANING JOU R N EY
“
W
ill Robin have a lamb chop?” said my father, wearing an apron and wielding a spatula on our last visit. “Not for another millennium, Dad, sorry.” Blimey, weaning is a bore. After the initial awe generated from feeding an infant their first spoonful of puréed carrot, it really is the last word in frustrating. I write this from a kitchen which once had white walls. It now looks like a poor man’s Jackson Pollock – an unoriginal joke, sure, but how else to describe the lumpen splatters of orange encasing me? Obviously, I had pledged to cook everything from scratch, buying organic root veg from the farmers’ market, smugly telling anyone who would listen that I was preparing a season’s worth of food for my daughter. I steamed and puréed my pumpkins and swedes and parsnips before distributing the results into Annabel Karmel freezing trays then popping the frozen cubes out into labelled and dated bags. I even bought a pen especially for the labelling. My freezer became a focal point: “Look what I’ve been doing!” I’d announce with conceit untold, to my visitors, swinging the door open to reveal bags and bags of orange and yellow cubes. I was the best mother ever with my labelled bags and steaming skills. And initially Robin was the world’s best eater. Excited by everything I gave her, opening her mouth expectantly whenever food wasn’t actually in it. But then something changed. She decided against lumps. She couldn’t be doing with potato. She spat apple out and rejected berries of any kind. She also won’t drop her bottles. People keep saying, “it’ll work itself out” but every day Robin eats more and keeps her five bottles. I hate to sound lazy but this works out as eight feeding times each day. Eight! I can’t go anywhere without food. My friends with older children literally throw food into the back seats of the car when they are driving (“it’s like having a human dog,” beamed Julia, lobbing half a pitta and an open pouch of bangers and mash into the back of an Audi that once smelled of middle management and Coco Mademoiselle and now, well, you can imagine), and that is a meal time,
whereas I have to dress Robin up in a Terry cloth boiler suit and additional bib, and spend hours spooning food into her face. And no matter how careful and slow I am, at least 50% of it ends up not in her mouth. Anyway, I won’t give up. I toiled over a delicious vine tomato, basil and mozzarella pasta feast (“maybe I can be the next Ella of Ella’s Kitchen!” I thought, as I peeled, chopped and garnished, fantasising about making my fortune out of gourmet baby food despite barely being able to boil an egg, and making a mental note that we should invest in a marble worktop in the kitchen because it was likely that my ideas would be franchised into a TV show. I would become a human brand. A film crew would want to capture my culinary genius at home, and this MDF from 1994 was not #houseporn). I served my delicacy in an electric blue Tommee Tippee bowl and spoon-fed my infant diner. She considered my efforts for less than a second before disintegrating into disgusted tears and clamping her little mouth shut. My gourmet baby food business and becoming a human brand looked increasingly unlikely to be anything but a pipe dream. “RIGHT, THAT’S IT!” I unplugged the Nutribullet with a flourish. I’m sorry but I just do not have time to painstakingly create gastronomic delights for them only to be rejected out of hand. Jars, let’s be having you! Pouches, reveal yourselves. Now here’s the thing. It’s not all absolute rubbish in jars and pouches, and it’s not bland old sludge. I have discovered all sorts, some of which consist of combinations that you might hear mentioned as a part of a Masterchef finalist’s dish – Mango, Pear And Kale With A Dash Of Yoghurt, anyone? All I need to accomplish now is to teach Robin to eat directly from the pouch and then, well I still won’t quite be cooking on gas, but you know what I mean. I never thought I’d dream of the day I would throw food into the back of a moving vehicle for my child and be able to call it teatime, but here we are. bs Twitter: @marthalondon
For when time is of the essence, Piccolo’s pouches are filled with organic goodness Piccolo Cherry & Yoghurt with Wholegrain Oats £1.10, waitrose.com
Next time – Martha shares the trials and tribulations of baby Robin’s first holiday
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 43
PREGNANCY
The birth you want Dr Asma Khalil, CON SU LTANT OBSTE TRICIAN AN D FE TAL M EDICIN E SPECIALIST AT TH E PORTL AN D H OSPITAL, DISCUSSE S ALTER NATIVE BIRTHING OP TION S he birth of your child is a special experience that will be individual for every mother, but in each case, a truly life-changing event. Developing a plan ahead of labour and reviewing the different options available can help to ensure it’s both a memorable and enjoyable experience.
T
ACTIVE BIRTH
What is it? During an active birth, mothers are encouraged to take control of their bodies and move around freely. They usually adopt upright positions during both labour and birth, instead of delivering in bed while on their back. An active labour might involve birthing balls and cushions to allow for comfortable sitting and kneeling, or items such as ropes, which can help support a squatting position. What are the benefits? Studies have found that an active birth can make the process of labour easier, more efficient and less painful. For example, upright positions can help to work with the force of gravity, and squatting positions can widen the pelvis outlet for the baby. Is it right for me? An active birth is all about listening to your body, so there may be elements you wish to incorporate into your birth plan, even if you don’t decide to choose this option for delivery. Many antenatal classes incorporate elements of the active birth philosophy into their agendas, so make sure you ask about it during your sessions. Active birth techniques are particularly useful in women who are not using other types of pain relief in labour, but they can also enhance the experience of women using other pain relief, including Entonox (gas and air), injections of morphine or pethidine, or an epidural.
44 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
HYPNOBIRTHING
What is it? In recent years, we have seen an increase in the demand for hypnobirthing – or the use of hypnosis during labour. Hypnobirthing can help you feel calm and relaxed during labour, and more confident in the birthing process. It’s a form of self-hypnosis that triggers a physical and mental state of deep relaxation. What are the benefits? Expectant mothers may find the whole experience calmer and more relaxed, and they may feel more in control throughout. Is it right for me? The hypnobirthing technique can be modified to suit every woman. If a mother is interested in approaching the birth with this technique, I usually advise she researches hypnobirthing early on in her pregnancy, as with more practice it usually comes more easily when required. Even women who have an epidural for pain relief can still benefit from continuing to use hypnobirthing techniques.
WATER BIRTH
What is it? A water birth, where a woman spends much of her labour in a pool of water at body temperature, can provide a relaxing environment during labour. Some women will spend much of their labour in the pool, but come out of the water for the birth; others will stay in the pool to deliver their baby there. However, sometimes hours submerged in the pool can become uncomfortable, and might prevent the mother from staying mobile, so we usually advise women to enter the pool once they are at least 4cm dilated. What are the benefits? The relaxing nature and feeling of weightlessness in water can, in many cases,
ease the pain during labour, and is therefore a natural option for mums-to-be who are wary of medical intervention, as contractions are often more manageable. It is also much easier to move around and change into different positions. Often the woman’s partner will get into the pool, too, to support her. Once your baby is born, it needs to be lifted with its face out of the water so it can breathe – your midwife will do this or help you to do it yourself, if you prefer. This is because the oxygen supply from the placenta will stop at some stage soon after the birth, and because baby’s circulation at birth changes its lungs must therefore fill with air. Is it right for me? It is important to note that water births are suitable only for low-risk pregnancies, as the water can make it more difficult for your doctor to assess the baby’s wellbeing by monitoring its heartbeat. However, some maternity units have telemetry which allows your baby’s wellbeing to be monitored, even when you are in the water. Epidurals are also not suitable for mothers who choose to give birth in water, as they require the mother to be connected to a drip; there would also be a risk of infection getting into the place where the epidural has been inserted in her back. Water births might not be for everyone, so if you find the experience too uncomfortable, feel free to leave the pool at any time and consider the other options available to you. There are a range of options out there for mothers-to-be; however, the most important thing is that it works for you. I always urge expectant mothers to research their options and raise any concerns with your network of professionals, who are all there to support you in bringing your child into the world safely and, as far as possible, on your own terms. bs
PREGNANCY
DOS AND DON’TS Remember, there is no right or wrong way when it comes to your birth plan
DO: • Think about what will make you most comfortable and relaxed. • Make sure you attend antenatal classes before developing your plan, as they will help give you some ideas. • Remember that birth plans are rarely the same – there is no right or wrong! • Keep a record of your birth plan, and make sure you share it with your midwife or consultant. • Keep an open mind. Make a plan that suits you but be prepared to consider your options if things change during labour.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
DON’T: • Make your birth plan too prescriptive. It should only be a guide, so don’t put pressure on yourself to follow it exactly. • Leave out your birthing partner. • Forget to ask questions! It’s important parents feel confident, and the more you know, the more you will feel reassured.
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 45
PROTECT YOUR BABY AGAINST LOUD NOISES
Nothing but the best for your little one Taking your baby to an event or festival? Making a lot of noise doing chores around the house? These trendy ALPINE MUFFY BABY earmuffs protect the vulnerable hearing of babies and toddlers against loud noises and overstimulation. Moreover, they are the only CE-certified baby earmuffs in Europe. Thanks to the soft, adjustable headband the earmuffs have a perfect fit. Wearing the earmuffs, your baby can sleep peacefully through the noise or enjoy the event. www.alpinehearingprotection.co.uk/Muffy-Baby
HEALTH
The Breastfeeding Café with LOUISE PYNE
THIS ISSUE WE ASK
HOW CAN I BOOST MY MILK SUPPLY?
Y
ou need all the energy you can muster to cope with the changes that come with newborn territory, so focusing on a nutritious diet will help. And if you’re breastfeeding, upgrading your plate could also come with some super-important benefits. There’s a secret substance found in certain kitchen staples that could supercharge your supply – called galactagogues, these lactation enhancers are thought to work by increasing levels of prolactin, the hormone involved with milk production. These are my dietary picks:
issues, it makes sense to load up on iron-rich foods. Swiss chard is the veggie of choice, as 200g of the dark green leaf contains more than 5g of iron – one third of the RDA.
DON’T JUST EAT IT, DRINK IT… GINGER
Fatty acids are one of the key components in breast milk so loading up on foods containing fats called EPA and DHA is extremely important when you’re nursing. These fats also ensure proper brain and eye health in newborns. In addition to salmon, nuts, seeds and fortified foods are all good options.
Best known as a remedy for morning sickness, ginger may also be a potent galactagogue. One study showed that mothers who consumed ginger had a higher milk volume in the first few days postpartum than those who received a placebo. Ginger tea is an easy way to get your fix, or include the root in soups and stir-fries.
GARLIC
FENNEL
You might think garlic would automatically put your baby off feeding, but research shows that newborns nurse more frequently from mothers who have consumed large amounts of garlic. The more baby latches on, the greater your supply, so flavouring meals with the cloves could help to ensure a steady flow. bs
Fennel is packed with hormone-like compounds called phytoestrogens, and these are thought to have a positive effect on postpartum prolactin levels. Enjoy fennel in tea form, or shred the bulb into salads.
SALMON
OATS Starting your day with a bowl of oats might just be the easiest way to ensure a good flow. Oats contain an amino acid called glutamine which naturally has a calming effect on the body, and this is also thought to encourage let down.
SWISS CHARD If you lost a lot of blood during labour, your iron levels may be low. Deficiency signs include fatigue, low immunity and a pale complexion. Since studies link low iron levels with lactation
Louise Pyne is a nutritionist. For more information, visit louisepynenutrition.com
Maternity bras to love
Hotmilk lace-detail nursing bra £39.99, figleaves.com
ASOS Maternity jersey and lace nursing bra £18, asos.com
Royce printed nursing bra £30, figleaves.com
WATER OK, so it’s technically not a galactagogue food, but staying hydrated is one of the best ways to help your body to make milk. You’ll naturally crave more water when you’re feeding but pay extra attention to thirst cues. Sip on a large glass with each feed and if you get bored of regular water, add some lemon slices and a few sprigs of mint for a flavour boost.
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 47
HEALTH
I’M PLANNING TO BREASTFEED, CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT MASTITIS IS?
meet
the
EXPERTS OU R H E ALTHCAR E PROFE SSIONAL S AN SWER YOU R QU E STION S ABOUT PR EGNANC Y AN D BEYON D
48 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
Mastitis is a breast infection which is normally the result of a clogged duct or an infection carried from baby to mum via cracked or sore nipples. If you have mastitis, there are a few symptoms to look out for. The most common are headaches, intense pains, tender breasts, redness, fever, cracked nipples, flu-like symptoms and generally feeling unwell. If you think you have mastitis, you must contact your GP straight away. Antibiotics will be prescribed and you should notice your fever dropping within 24 hours, with the soreness calming down after 36 hours. If you have mastitis, you must be sure to go to bed and stay there – you need to rest! Apply a heat pad to the area using a hot water bottle or warm wet towel, or have a warm bath or shower. You should never apply an ice pack. Continue to nurse frequently to keep the milk flowing and avoid engorgement. Be sure to drink lots of fluids, too. Occasionally, baby may not nurse well from an infected breast as the milk can taste salty from the infection. If your baby is refusing or fussing, offer the uninfected breast and express the infected breast. Deearna Withey, founder of Deearna’s Maternity Agency
HEALTH WE’VE WORKED TO SAFEGUARD OUR HOME SINCE HAVING OUR 14-MONTH-OLD, BUT IS THERE ANYTHING WE NEED TO THINK ABOUT WHEN WE’RE PLAYING OUTSIDE WITH HIM?
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
I’M 32 WEEKS AND MY MIDWIFE HAS SUGGESTED I HAVE A GROWTH SCAN. WHAT IS THIS AND HOW IMPORTANT IS IT? A third trimester ultrasound is not necessary for all women but if your midwife has specifically recommended this, then it may be to check for any complications or to assess the size, anatomy and wellbeing of your baby. There is usually nothing to be concerned about. The scan may also be simply to assess the position of the baby as you near your delivery date, or to review things following on from something that was picked up during your last ultrasound. Often, if you have experienced worrying symptoms such as pain, contractions, reduced foetal movement or vaginal bleeding, or have an underlying condition (such as high blood pressure), your doctor will probably send you in for a third trimester ultrasound. Conditions like this could influence the growth of your baby, so it is a good idea to keep a close eye on foetal development. This scan may also be undertaken due to having twins, as twins are at greater risk of growth issues. Privately, many women opt for a growth scan to provide reassurance that baby is growing well and to enjoy the experience of seeing their baby on 3D or 4D images. Ultrasound scans are totally safe, so many couples choose to have a growth scan for their own peace of mind and for memories. On the NHS, if you have a straightforward pregnancy then you will not have any further scans after about 20 weeks. I would advise anyone hoping to conceive to plan their pregnancy with their GP, taking into account diet, wellbeing, any underlying conditions and risk factors. Each individual will need to prepare for a baby in a different way to maximise the chances of a healthy, happy pregnancy. I look after our pregnant members in this same way; it is important to improve health literacy surrounding pregnancy not only for women but also their partners and families; who often play a huge supporting role. Dr Anuj Chaturvedi, medical director and GP at HealthClic
Toddlers fall over repeatedly, run into things, stand up underneath things and put things in their mouths. They’re head-heavy, headstrong and totally devoid of any risk awareness, so it’s vital that we remain one step ahead. When you’re out and about, always strap them into the buggy and avoid overloading it with shopping. Particularly if you have another child on the buggyboard. Discourage little ones from eating plants or putting things they find on the ground in their mouths, and be sure to check their hands for dog feces, as this is particularly dangerous. Always apply appropriate suncream (and remember to reapply after swimming), cover up and keep them out of midday sun. If you’re near water, never leave them unattended, even for a second. Toddlers can drown in just a couple of centimetres of water. Children this age are prone to poking their fingers into hinges and small spaces. Keep them clear of the buggy when it’s being folded and don’t let them play with bike chains or park gates. Also be aware of swings and other moving play equipment in the park or garden. It’s always a good idea to carry saline pods to irrigate their eyes, particularly if they are playing in a sandpit or dusty area. Always supervise them on play equipment, especially when there are older children around, as toddlers do like to copy them. Finally, carry a small first aid kit to patch up any minor injuries, and I would always suggest that parents attend a practical or online first aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. Emma Hammett, founder of First Aid For Life
HOW MUCH CRYING IS NORMAL FOR A BABY, AND WHEN WILL I KNOW IF THERE’S A PROBLEM? On average, babies cry around 60 minutes a day. A healthy baby has an automatic capacity to settle without help from their parents. Studies show that crying often gets worse at about six weeks of age. You should be concerned if your child cries continuously for more than three hours in a row, more than three days a week, over a period of three weeks or more. Research suggests that up to 30% of babies cry excessively. It usually starts at two weeks and can go on until the age of six months. There are a variety of possible medical causes for this, which include rhinitis – an irritation or inflammation inside the nose; reflux – frequently associated with a cow’s milk protein intolerance; urinary tract infections, a hernia, an intestinal intussusception or gut malformation or Meningitis, so contact your GP if you are worried about any of these. Unfortunately soothing measures such as massage, homeopathy, and even some commonly used medication, lack reliable evidence as a remedy, but a regular feeding and sleep routine which creates a predictable secure environment is important. Try to avoid excessive sensory stimulus, or allowing yourself to become overtired and emotionally exhausted. You should also try to avoid ‘misunderstandings’ – an example of this is when baby turns their head away. This usually means the baby has had enough and needs space. If anxious parents misinterpret this as rejection, they may attempt to play more with baby. This could make the child cry and affect their ability to settle. Dr Robert Arlt MD, consultant paediatrician at Richmond Practice
OUR PANEL
Emma Hammett
Dr Anuj Chaturvedi
Dr Robert Arlt MD
Deearna Withey
firstaidforlife.org.uk
healthclic.co.uk
richmondpractice.co.uk
deearnas-maternity-agency.co.uk
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 49
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Time to Talk
THE ZIKA VIRUS Marina Fogle & Dr Chiara Hunt TH E SISTER S DISCUSS TH E ISSU E OF ZIK A IN PR EGNAN C Y couple of years ago, few people were familiar with the word Zika. Spread by daytime-active mosquitoes, its name comes from the forest in Uganda where it was first identified in the 1940s. For decades it was confined to a narrow area along the equator in Africa and Asia, and appeared to pose no serious health risk. But a few years ago it started spreading eastwards into the Americas and as more people became infected, it emerged that there was a correlation with Zika and brain defects in the unborn children of those who had been infected. The danger of Zika is not so much for the person affected – symptoms are mostly mild. The real risk is in pregnancy; we now know Zika can spread from a woman to her baby resulting serious birth defects, most commonly a condition called microcephaly. As a result, in 2016, the US Centre for Disease
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
A
Control & Prevention (CDC) issued travel notices, warning pregnant women, or couples trying to conceive, that visiting Zika areas would put their unborn child at risk. Here is our guide to managing Zika in pregnancy: What if I’ve already been to a Zika area while pregnant? Your GP will recommend that you be tested. This will either be a blood or urine test. If you test positive for Zika, obstetricians will keep a close eye on the development of your baby. What is microcephaly? Babies born with microcephaly have smaller heads because the brain has not developed normally during pregnancy. While they generally survive birth, these children frequently have intellectual disability, poor motor function and speech, abnormal facial features and seizures. There is no treatment, and usually
babies with the condition have reduced life expectancy.
unless you get tested and have a negative result.
What if I’ve booked a holiday and can’t get my money back? Don’t go – it’s just not worth it. You could try asking your travel insurance company if it will cover cancellation fees.
If I have Zika and am pregnant, what are the chances that our baby will have a brain defect? Neonatal outcomes take years to determine, so there is no accurate data on this yet. That said, the risk of Zika to unborn children is significant so always follow the advice from the CDC.
What if my partner has visited a Zika area while I’m pregnant? He needs to be tested. Because Zika can be passed on through sex, you should not have sex without using condoms before the results are back. We are trying to conceive but have just visited a Zika area, what should we do? The advice is for women to wait eight weeks before trying. However, because Zika stays for longer in sperm, men need to wait for six months. So if you have both travelled, you both need to wait for six months
Where do we need to avoid? This is often changing, so check the CDC website before you travel. Broadly, notices have been issued in Central Africa, Central America, South America, the Caribbean and Pacific islands. bs Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are founders of The Bump Class. Their book, The Bump Class: An Expert Guide to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond (£20, Vermilion) is available now. thebumpclasss.com
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 51
SHOPPING
THE REVIEW
TH ER E’S NO E ASIER WAY TO GE T AROU N D THIS SUMM ER THAN WITH A QUALIT Y BABY CAR RIER . Laura Mason PUTS FIVE FAVOU RITE S TO TH E TE ST
Best
BACK CARRIER
Best for
NEWBORNS
Best
WRAP
Best for DADS
Most
STYLISH
Check out the cool denim and leaf-print designs in the range, too
STOKKE
CYBEX
WE MADE ME
BABYBJÖRN
FORNESSI
Suitable for babies from four weeks, this carrier is the best I’ve tested in terms of weight distribution on the front and back. As baby grows, they go from front to rear facing, and then on your back. The design fits around your body, with adjustable features to ensure that both parent and baby are comfortable. £129, stokke.com
This carrier from Cybex’s Birds of Paradise collection features three ergonomic positions – front and rear facing, along with a unique side positioning that perches on the hip. Combining a blend of elasticated fabric and strapping, this is a strong and modern carrier that will appeal to styleconscious parents. £200, harrods.com
The Pao can be used from a weight of 8lbs, thanks to a detachable insert that fits neatly inside this ergonomic carrier. The infant insert has been designed to provide additional padding as baby faces the parent. As they grow, the carrier offers varying settings to ensure comfort for both parties. £129.99, wemademe.com
With a refreshing new focus on fathers, this design is great for dads who need confidence when it comes to baby wearing. The latest Babybjörn One has been designed and modelled by fathers, with men in mind – think padded straps, lockable zips and a sturdy waistband to boot. £134.99, babybjorn.co.uk
This eco-friendly wrap is made from tree fibres, making it super soft with plenty of stretch to provide the perfect cocoon. The carrier moulds to your baby to support their back, legs and hips as they grow. With no complicated buckles or settings, the tying process quickly becomes second nature. £59, fornessi.com
MyCarrier
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Yema
Pao Carrier Deluxe
Baby Carrier One
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babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG17 | 53
RUNNING HEAD
54 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
DEVELOPMENT
In the
SWIM
of things
Paul Thompson, FOU N DER OF WATER BABIE S, E XPL AIN S TH E BEN EFITS OF TAKING TO TH E POOL WITH YOU R LIT TLE ON E
id you know that babies have the natural ability to swim? This is due to two intelligent reflexes: the swimming reflex and the dive reflex. The former means baby will move their arms and legs in a swimming motion when supported in the water while tummy-side down; the latter means your baby can hold their breath and open their eyes when underwater. These reflexes are strongest in the first six months of life. And the NHS advises you can take your baby swimming any time before and after their immunisations – so it’s never too
D
soon to get them in the pool, as long as the water’s warm enough (above 30˚C for a baby older than 12 weeks or heavier than 12lbs, and 32˚C if they’re younger or smaller). Baby swimming originally evolved out of a desire to ensure they were safe and confident in water. However, the exercises used to teach this confidence – gentle rocking, reaching for objects, kicking movements and learning to respond to commands – also provide stimulation for your baby’s brain. In the first year of their life, the brain develops more rapidly than at any other time, and swimming
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 55
RUNNING HEAD
BABIES CAN EXERCISE MANY MORE MUSCLES IN THE WATER THAN THEY CAN ON LAND with your baby can have an extremely positive effect on this development – even more reason to take to the water with your little one as early as possible.
DEVELOPMENT OF MOTOR SKILLS Babies love the repetitive movement of bouncing and splishing and splashing in the pool, and this movement provides fantastic stimulation for the vestibular system, which allows us to sense motion and to balance. As this system matures, it will help a baby to keep their head upright, pull themselves up onto their feet, balance, and eventually walk. Chasing after bright and colourful toys in the pool, and grasping them to bring them closer for a good old chew, is a great exercise for enhancing hand-eye coordination. The cross-lateral movement of reaching out is the same one used in crawling. This teaches both sides of the brain to work together, not only helping to coordinate physical movements but also strengthening nerve pathways between the two sides, helping the brain store and retrieve information more effectively – all great for learning! One study recently carried out in Iceland (where baby swimming is extremely popular in the country’s thermal pools) concluded that, when tested at the age of four, children who had attended baby swimming lessons from a young age showed significantly better balance than their peers. Their ball skills and dexterity were also tested, with the early water babies achieving better results.
TOP SWIMMING AIDS
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT It‘s not only motor skills which are benefited by swimming; physically it is wonderful for your baby, and the only form of exercise they can do literally from birth. Just half an hour in the pool can provide a complete work-out for them (and you!) and parents often comment that their little ones eat and sleep better on the days they go swimming. Babies can exercise many more muscles
56 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
BABY FLOAT For a supported introduction to the water, this is a great option for babies once they’re able to maintain a sitting position. £15, jojomamanbebe.co.uk
SEVYLOR PUDDLE JUMPER This all-in-one device is an arm and chest floatation that provides an upright positioning in the water, and fastens at the back. £17.99, sevylor-europe.com
Forget the hassle of individual armbands and swim rings with this all-in-one aid
DEVELOPMENT
in the water than they can on land, and amazingly can swim short distances unaided from when they are tiny. Sessions in the pool are great for strengthening arm, leg and neck muscles, and are superb for tiny lungs and cardiovascular fitness. Swimming will not only make your baby fitter and stronger, you will also notice the difference in their physical ability on land, where regular swimmers have often been shown to crawl and walk earlier than their non-swimming peers.
EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT As babies learn how to manoeuvre in the water on their own, their independence and self-confidence blossoms, and they enjoy being in the pool more and more. Where they might be very dependant on you in the early days, a few months on, a baby will happily swim a short distance between you and the instructor, or splash off the poolside and into the water all by themselves. The confidence and self-esteem involved in learning to swim will often then be transferred into other aspects of their life. For a toddler, the thrill of grasping a new skill in their lesson, or achieving something they have been working up to for a while, will be evident in their ear-to-ear grins – and may also give them the confidence to try new things and increase their interest in learning in general. Last, but certainly not least, is the benefit of all the fun you and your baby can have together in the pool, and just how much they’ll love it. So enjoying a swim every week, with all these added benefits, is surely conducive to a dip! bs
LOCAL CLASSES
PHOTOGRAPHY: IAN TAYLOR FOR WATER BABIES PRODUCT REVIEWS: LAURA MASON
Water Babies waterbabies.co.uk Little Dippers littledippers.co.uk
SUNUVA FLOATSUIT This adorable, quick-drying floatsuit will ensure baby not only looks super stylish, but will be safe in the water and protected from UV rays too. £42, sunuva.com
SWIMFIN SwimFin is worn on your little one’s back, allowing total freedom around the arms and better natural movement in the water. £22.99, swimfin.co.uk
KONFIDENCE ORIGINAL SWIM JACKET Suitable for babies from 18 months, this buoyant jacket straps on securely to provide confidence and security. £24.99, konfidence.co.uk
Angela’s Swim School angelasswimschool.co.uk Turtle Tots turtletots.com Puddle Ducks puddleducks.com
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 57
FOOD
food
NEWS Vanessa Clarkson’s recipes appeal to all ages, so you’ll spend less time cooking multiple meals
WE BRING TO TH E TABLE TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST FOOD FOR TH E SMALLE ST OF DIN ER S
A HEAD START
Nutritionist Vanessa Clarkson’s first book, Real Food for Babies & Toddlers, calls for parents to learn how to read their little one’s cues during weaning, introducing them to ‘real’ food, and a variety of tastes and textures, as opposed to just spoon-feeding purées. Featuring more than 80 seasonal recipes suitable for the whole family, there’ll be no need to make separate meals for baby. £14.99, Murdoch Books
PICKY EATERS Help baby on their weaning journey with Kiddylicious’s My First Wafer. The new finger food is made with rice flour, fruit and veg, and contains 50% less sugar than standard rusks. Flavours include Sweet Potato & Banana. £1.30 (five individual twin packs), ocado.com
A COLD BLEND There’s a new face in the baby food aisle that might look familiar. Smoothie brand Savsé’s My First Savsé pouches include a blend of fruit and vegetables that have been coldpressed to maintain the quality of vitamins and minerals for maximum goodness. £1.49 each, ocado.com
FLEXIBLE FEEDING Annabel Karmel’s Baby-Led Weaning Recipe Book is the latest title from the queen of infant nutrition. With more than 120 recipe ideas, from breakfast and snacks to poultry and fish, it offers a flexible approach to weaning – whether you want to try baby-led weaning exclusively, or combine it with spoonfeeding. £8, Pindock Publishing
THIS YEAR SEES INFANT FOODIE FAVOURITE ORGANIX CELEBRATE ITS 25TH BIRTHDAY. OVER THAT TIME, THE BRAND HAS SOLD MORE THAN 1.6 BILLION RICE CAKES – THAT’S ENOUGH TO SHARE WITH ONE FIFTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION! HERE’S TO ANOTHER 25 YEARS OF BABY BITES… ORGANIX.COM
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 59
Summer flavours
to savour
WHATEVER TH E WE ATH ER , ENJOY TH E SE PER FEC T FAMILY R ECIPE S AL FR E SCO OR AROU N D TH E KITCH EN TABLE
This summer fruit purée will make a tasty addition to a grown-up dessert
B A N A N A , S T R AW B E R RY & P E AC H P U R É E W I T H A HINT OF MINT Preparation: 20 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing Makes 4 portions
This summer fruit recipe allows for the sweet taste of strawberries and peaches to combine with creamy banana to make a smooth purée. INGREDIENTS
• 2 ripe peaches • 6 strawberries, hulled • ½ banana, peeled • 1 fresh mint leaf METHOD
Prepare a bowl of ice cold water. Score crosses onto the top and bottom of the peaches and place in a pan of boiling water. After 30 seconds, remove the peaches and place into the bowl of ice water and leave for 1 minute. Take out the peaches and you should be able to remove the skin easily. Cut the peaches in half and remove the stone. Place the peaches, strawberries, banana and mint leaf in a blender and blend until smooth. Tip: You can use tinned peaches too, but buy the ones in fruit juice, not syrup.
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 61
FOOD These delicious lollies are packed with beta-carotene and vitamin A
ZEST Y SUMME R ICE LOLLIES Preparation: 20 minutes (freeze overnight) Makes 6 ice lollies
T O M AT O & B A S I L R I C O T TA TA R T Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 40 minutes Makes 8 toddler servings
This is a great picnic recipe! You can also use courgette instead of tomato if you want to change things up. INGREDIENTS
• 1 roll of filo or puff pastry • 4 tbsp of olive oil • 250g ricotta cheese • 300g mixed tomatoes, sliced 2cm thick • 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil, plus extra for topping • 2 tsp chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for topping • 1 tsp lemon zest • Salt and pepper, to taste METHOD
Heat the oven to 180˚C. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. If using filo pastry, place 1 sheet of pastry on the parchment paper. Brush lightly with olive oil. Top with another sheet of filo, and brush lightly with oil. Repeat until all the filo sheets
are stacked. Otherwise, roll out the puff pastry to fit the tray. Place a piece of baking paper over the top of the pastry, and line with baking beans or rice to blind bake the pastry for 20-25 minutes. While the pastry is cooking, make the filling. Slice the tomatoes, cutting out any extra seeds in the larger tomatoes to reduce the amount of liquid. Sprinkle with a little salt and allow to rest. In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, basil, parsley, lemon zest and salt and pepper until well combined. Once the pastry is cooked, take it out of the oven and leave to cool for 5-10 minutes. Spread the ricotta mixture over the top of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges. Drain the excess liquid from the tomatoes and place on top of the ricotta. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Bake for 25 minutes until dough is golden brown and flaky. Cool the tart slightly. Top with more chopped basil and parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature. Tip: For a dairy-free option, make a tomato sauce base and mix in some sundried tomatoes and paprika – it’s just as delicious!
These refreshing ice lollies make a great chilled treat for the summer months, and are crammed full of vitamins! The combination of orange and carrot is a winner. INGREDIENTS
• 4 large carrots, peeled • 3 medium oranges or 4 tangerines (you can also use fresh orange juice) METHOD
Blend the carrots in a juicer and either use the pulp and the juice or, using a muslin or clean tea towel, place all the blended carrot in the material and squeeze out the juice into a measuring jug and discard the pulp (you could use this in a savoury muffin or add to an omelette or sauce). Zest the oranges and add to the carrot juice, then juice the oranges. Add the orange juice to the carrot juice and zest mixture. Pour the mixture into lolly moulds and freeze overnight. Tip: You can use pretty much any fruit and vegetable combination you like to make these ice lollies, and you don’t need to add any sugar. To make a creamier ice lolly, mix the fruit with yoghurt or coconut milk.
All recipes and tips by Alice Fotheringham, infant nutrition specialist at Piccolo. Piccolo is an organic baby food brand with roots in the Mediterranean approach to feeding children. The brand supports the NCT and gives 10% of its profits to food education. Visit online at mylittlepiccolo.com to find out more and receive an exclusive discount off your next pouch.
62 | JUL/AUG 2017 | babysurrey.co.uk
*
Not quite mummy but almost!
NUK is a registered trademark of MAPA GmbH, Germany * Source: Independent Market Research in Germany, 2016
The new NUK Nature Sense. Closer to nature than ever before. Several tiny openings Super-sof t zone
a tr e E x x ibl e Fl
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DEVELOPMENT
night nanny Z
Z
Z
DIARY OF A
THIS ISSU E, Georgie Bateman LOOKS AT ON E PAR ENT’S BAT TLE WITH H ER BABY ’S DUMMY
ometimes I am asked to do consultations during the day; Alison contacted me recently to ask if I could pop over to give her some advice on getting rid of her baby’s dummy. “At night, the dummy keeps falling out and she can’t find it to put it back in again. And during the day, it’s permanently glued to her face. But the cot death guidelines say dummies are good… I’m so confused!” I ask Alison how she manages eight-month old Ottilie’s use of the dummy. “Well, I don’t really think I do,” she admits. “Originally, I was very clear about only using it at the beginning of each period of sleep, but as she got older, she was the one who decided when she wanted the dummy, and suddenly it was all day and all night.” Having previously slept well for her age, Ottilie is now waking at the end of her sleep cycles, her sleep ability is regressing and her behaviour is, too. “She just becomes a little tyrant, so now we’re both slaves to the dummy.” The first thing I need to clarify for Alison is appropriate dummy use regarding cot death, so she can be confident that removing the dummy now is perfectly safe. The second thing is to help her realise we do need to remove the dummy altogether, because Ottilie needs to be given a clear message. Research of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) supports dummy use because the rhythm of sucking creates parallel rhythms in the physiology of the baby. Which means as the baby’s sucking slows down, so does the baby’s breathing and heart rate, to a safe level rather than plummeting uncontrollably. It also makes baby breathe through her nose, warming the air before it hits her lungs. “Imagine walking outside on a really cold day and the air catches your throat. That’s
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
S
what we’re trying to avoid because it can cause a baby to stop breathing.” Alison nods. “I realise this is important for a newborn, but as she gets older, are you saying Ottilie doesn’t need a dummy any longer?” “Yes. Dummy use should be withdrawn between six and 12 months – but that is easier said than done!” However, I have some tricks up my sleeve. “Find every dummy in the house and prick a hole in it with a sterilised needle. Just one hole – and put the dummy back where you found it. Although Ottilie is too small to get around the house, this technique works great for older children because they will know where to find their dummies. “The following night, put another hole in every dummy. And do the same the next night, and the next. Gradually, the suction will reduce – there will be no resistance in the dummy, and no pleasure in sucking it.” Alison looks bewildered. “But isn’t that a choking hazard?” “No, because as soon as the dummy begins
Dummy use should be withdrawn between the age of six to 12 months
to look like a sieve, snip the top off the dummy with scissors. And each night you snip a little more off the dummy, until you are left with just the plastic handle.” Older children will notice the gradual destruction, but you can feign ignorance – maybe the Dummy Fairy did it, because the child is old enough not to need a dummy any longer – but at least Mummy isn’t to blame! And as the pleasure of sucking reduces, so does the baby’s interest in the dummy. Once the interest is gone completely, baby will sleep better through the night. She will also not want to use the dummy during the day. bs For more, contact Katie Price at Night Nannies on 07800 843618 or email katie@nightnannies.com. Also check out the Facebook page, Night Nannies South of England, for more tips.
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 65
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Pre-Preparatory and Nursery School Children join the Pre-Nursery class in the term they turn three. Please come and visit us. To arrange an appointment telephone 01372 463695 or email preprepschool@claremont.surrey.sch.uk
Open Days 5 Oct and 9 Nov @ChintSchool facebook.com/ChinthurstSchool
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66 | JUL/AUG17 | babysurrey.co.uk
www.parkside-school.co.uk
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education
PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP
Researching schools
EDUCATION
NEWS
EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM
PERFECT MATCH
Chinthurst School in Tadworth has begun a new partnership with Reigate Grammar School and Reigate St Mary’s. The new headteacher, Catherine Trundle, hopes becoming a member of the RGS family of schools will attract more girls to study at Chinthurst, and give all pupils more choice when it comes to extra curricular activities. chinthurstschool.co.uk If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector. The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.
ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700. The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.
There’s lots of fun and silliness packed into this rhythmic read-aloud book
PLUG IN AND PLAY Incorporate learning into your toddler’s playtime with Muro. The wooden board, designed to be secured onto a wall, can be personalised with a number of toys to aid development, from xylophones to counting frames. Since launching on crowdfunding site Kickstarter, its target has been reached, and you can order yours for delivery in October. From £129, mymuro.com
IN FINE FORM Circle, Triangle, Elephant! A Book of Shapes & Surprises by husband and wife duo Kenji Oikawa and Mayuko Takeuchi offers a new approach to learning about shapes. Beginning with familiar forms, the bright visuals are interrupted with unexpected but recognisable silhouettes. £7.95, Phaidon
RESEARCH BY TRAVEL SITE KIWI.COM HAS REVEALED 65% OF PARENTS DISAGREE WITH PENALTIES FOR TERM-TIME HOLIDAYS. FOUR IN FIVE BELIEVE HOLIDAY COSTS ARE TOO HIGH DURING THE SUMMER, WITH FAMILIES ABLE TO SAVE AN AVERAGE OF £686 IF THE TRIP IS TAKEN AT OTHER TIMES OF YEAR.
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 67
TECHNOLOGY
Is your baby
plugged in?
WE’R E USED TO SEEING H E ADLIN E S R EMIN DING US H OW MUCH SCR EEN TIM E (IF ANY) OU R CHILDR EN SHOU LD HAVE. BUT HOW DAMAGING IS IT R E ALLY, ASKS Georgina Blaskey
A
long with whether ‘breast is best’, how much fruit and veg we should feed our children and the right age to start toilet training, screen time is up there as another issue to make parents feel like they’re failing. Look around an aeroplane full of holidaymakers and most children will be plugged in to a device, usually swiping an app with all sorts of rewards toting up. Each reward they accrue is another dopamine hit that tells them, ‘yes you’re doing it right, you can move up a level; look, you’re doing so well, let’s play some more!’ What this ultimately means is the game is never over, so turning off the device usually involves a battle so fierce, you wish you’d never let them have it in the first place. Very young children do not have the self control to know when enough is enough; it’s up to us to teach them, and this means moderating our own behaviour when it comes to tech. If you’re in the playground having a quick scroll through Instagram while they whoosh down a slide, what’s to say they shouldn’t just sit on a swing and watch In The Night Garden? If you’re checking an email while they eat their lunch, why shouldn’t they play Toca Boo in between mouthfuls? It’s all the same to a toddler. New York University professor Adam Alter, in his book, Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us
Hooked, describes how Steve Jobs didn’t allow his kids to have an iPad. “In 2010, Jobs described it as a wonderful device that brought you educational tools. It allowed you to surf the web, to watch videos, to interact with other people. And he basically said it’s the best way to do all those things. Two years later when Jobs was asked, ‘Your kids must love the iPad?’ He said, ‘Actually we don’t allow the iPad in the home. We think it’s too dangerous for them in effect.’ Evan Williams, a founder of Blogger, Twitter and Medium, bought hundreds of books for his young sons, but refused to give them an iPad.
This response to stimulation continues to develop throughout the crucial first year of brain development, so it is vital that babies are not overstimulated. Even babies can be overstimulated by screens and miss the sleep they need to grow,” she explains. Sometimes we see a baby try to swipe a photo and think it’s endearing. Actually it’s because he believes that anything he touches creates an immediate response; after all, do it on a screen and it does. He’s used to the dopamine hit of creating a reaction through simply touching, which releases a feeling of pleasure. If a baby gets used to that feeling, he will always prefer to interact with a touchscreen over the real world, which requires more patience. But once a child is over the age of two, screen time can help develop coordination, quick reactions, and improve language skills. And research also shows that it can encourage light exercise (think Wii tennis or Just Dance). With so many factors to consider, ask yourself this: does my toddler have a balanced diet? Does my toddler get enough sleep? Does my toddler interact well with people? Do we spend time outside? Then restricted time on screens is probably not going to do any lasting damage. The TV has always been a parent’s free babysitter, and who wants to hear a toddler crying on a flight? There are times when common sense is allowed to prevail. bs
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Chris Anderson, the former editor of WIRED, enforced strict time limits on every device in his home, ‘because we have seen the dangers of technology firsthand.’” If the dons of Silicon Valley understand the addictive nature, but don’t filter it down, we don’t stand a chance! Angela Spencer, author of Babyopathy, points out the difference between stimulating a baby and overstimulation. “Although a baby’s nervous system is one of the first things to develop after conception, it is one of the last to reach complete maturity. A newborn baby therefore reacts quickly to sensory stimulation and can easily become overstimulated.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK,
BABIES CAN BE OVERSTIMULATED BY SCREENS AND MISS THE SLEEP THEY NEED TO GROW
DEVELOPMENT
SET YOUR LIMITS Even from very young, it’s important your toddler knows their limits with screen time, here’s how… Set clear boundaries and stick to them. When your child sits down to use a screen, make sure they know at the start how long they can play for. Consider using a ‘third party’ to indicate the end of the screen time such as an alarm clock, cooker buzzer or even an egg timer. Set a clear next activity. Think of something for them to do after they finish. Ideally something that involves some one-to-one time with you or something active to balance out the solo, inactive screen time. Set a penalty if they do not stop willingly or a reward if they do. There may be some tantrums at the start but children quickly fall in line when they know you aren’t going to change your mind.
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 69
EDUCATION
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Naomi Bar tholomew, H E AD OF ST CATH ERIN E’S PR EP SCHOOL, SHAR E S H ER TIPS FOR KEEPING LE AR NING FU N OVER TH E SUMM ER he long summer break can seem like a daunting prospect for parents of bright, active children. It’s important for children to have some down-time and, dare I say, even the opportunity to get bored occasionally, as it’s only then that they will learn to be creative and resourceful. Those starting nursery or school this year will need to be able to share adult attention come September, so having time to occupy themselves is useful preparation. As is the chance to get dressed independently, be confident going to the toilet and washing their hands, be brave with trying a variety of foods, and making choices and seeing them through. Some of these seemingly simpler, smaller activities can really help children develop for the next step.
T
GET OUTDOORS Everything from picnics in the garden to building a ‘bug hotel’ out of sticks and leaves in the park are great activities for young children. Observing nature and collecting leaves and petals can be hours of fun. Creating a shoebox ‘museum’ of all the objects found can also be a wonderful way for young children to look carefully at small objects. Another activity is to wrap sticky tape around your child’s wrist and have them make a ‘nature bracelet’ out of small and interesting items they find – feathers, leaves and bark work really well. The most important thing is to foster your child’s natural curiosity and encourage them to look closely and observe what is in their immediate surroundings.
else is fostering creativity and building on imaginative thought.
UNDERTAKE EVERYDAY CHORES Everything from setting the table, washing up, sorting laundry into light and dark items or cooking tasks such as shelling peas create brilliant learning opportunities. Measuring for baking, or decanting food into jars and containers for storing or freezing are all useful. Patience is needed here, as tasks can take longer than they might otherwise with young helpers but these are all golden opportunities for small amounts of responsibility and learning along the way.
NUMBERS AND BASIC MATHS BE CREATIVE Another brilliant activity is to raid your recycling bin and allow your child to make things out of items that would otherwise be thrown away. Items can be transformed with paint, used as printing blocks or modelled and built into towers using PVA glue. Allow your child to create for themselves and if they need help, use a picture book to find ideas. Indoor dens can be created from laundry baskets, old sheets and blankets. Anything which transforms one thing into something
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Research shows that maths learning takes the greatest step backwards over the summer break, hence it is very important to continue with counting and sorting whenever possible. A number line on the washing line can be helpful for pre-school, and simple sums such as working out change or revising times tables are important for those already at school.
READING Finally, keep reading fun and ensure that it happens every day. Visit your local library and
Foster their curiosity w ith outd
oor play
read, read, read with and to your child. If they are reading themselves, listen whenever you can and encourage younger ones to hold and look through picture books, talking about what they can see even if they are making up their own story. There are numerous sources of activity, but keeping things simple and close to home can be a very useful mantra for the long summer break. You do not need to compete with a fully kitted-out nursery or the superb facilities of your child’s school. Instead, simple activities at home can be just as fun and fulfilling, and all benefit learning. bs
Small Class Sizes Outstanding & Affordable
Independent Co-Ed Staines Preparatory School @stainesprep
Family Ethos Book a school tour now!
I
3 - 11 Years
I
stainesprep.co.uk
01784 450909 info@stainesprep.co.uk 3 Gresham Road, Staines. TW18 2BT
St Catherine’s Prep, Bramley GSA Day & Boarding School since 1885 | 4 - 18 years | Guildford GU5 0DF | www.stcatherines.info babysurrey01 May 2017.indd 1
25/05/2017 12:38:45 babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG17 | 71
EDUCATION
MEET THE HEAD How long have you been at Rowan Prep? I have been headmistress at Rowan for five years and previously was head at West Acton Primary School in Ealing. When did you first become interested in education? When studying psychology at university, I was particularly passionate about child development. This sparked my desire to be involved in education, particularly primary teaching. I loved learning how
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SUSAN CLARKE Rowan Preparatory School
We catch up with head of the girls’ prep school, based in Esher children absorb knowledge and throughout my career, I have stayed abreast of research and pedagogy which enables pupils. Can you tell us a bit about the school’s history? The school was founded in 1936 by Miss Katherine Millar who was determined to create an environment conducive to learning; she wanted Rowan to be a place where girls enjoyed their studies, developed a strong sense of self and established lasting friendships. Eighty years on, Miss Millar’s core values are still firmly embedded in the school. Our reputation continues to grow, not just due to the impressive academic results and scholarships that the girls consistently achieve and the high calibre of senior schools to which they progress,
but also through achievements in the arts, music and sport. What do you see as the main strengths of the school? We create a balance between the academic offering, pastoral care and the enrichment opportunities available to the girls. The close and extended Rowan community work together to build a warm and supportive environment which the pupils thrive in. How do you create a happy learning environment? The happy learning environment at Rowan comes from listening to the girls, creating inspiring learning opportunities, encouraging them to think creatively but also by providing an environment which is warm, nurturing and fun. We give them the chance to make a
difference in their school and the local community, learning from each other and the world around them. They recently worked with the WWF to raise awareness and money for endangered animals. This project was led by our enthusiastic Year 6 girls who are keen to make a difference. We encourage all girls to take risks and have a go, while learning how to support each other. The girls make lifelong friends, you’ll see this in the classroom, on the sports field and at reunion events as the Annual Old Girls’ Barbecue. What’s new for the school? As part of last year’s 80th anniversary we proudly unveiled new classrooms and libraries at both our pre-prep and prep facilities. With constant investment in music technology and new STEM facilities due to be unveiled in the autumn term, the school is continually evolving while providing a strong and steady environment for the pupils to explore and enjoy. bs 01372 462627, rowanprepschool.co.uk
Now taking registrations Fun is an essential ingredient at Pennypot Day Nursery and Preschool where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as the staff who provide them.
£50 Love to Shop Gift Vouchers If your child starts at nursery between 1st July 2017 and 30th September 2017
Outstanding Term-Time Childcare in a Country Location for 2 to 5 Year Olds
Please quote reference LF-LTS17
Government 15 and 30 Hours Funding and Tax-Free Childcare Flexible Offer Available Whitebushes Village Hall, Mason’s Bridge Road, REDHILL, RH1 5LE www.StickyFingersNursery.org reigatestmarys.org stickyfingers.redhill@gmail.com 07905 429 523 or 07948 690 093 reigatestmarys.org
An Extra Year 3 Class From September 2017
‘Excellent’
An Extra Year 3 Class -From September 2017 ISI Inspection 2016
OPEN MORNING Wednesday 3 May Open Days 10 October and 29 November OPEN MORNING Reigate St Mary’s School Chart lane, Junior School of Reigate RH2 7RN 01737244880 Wednesday 3 May office@reigatestmarys.org
Reigate St Mary’s School, Chart Lane, Reigate, RH2 7RN 01737 244880 @RSMPrepSchool
Reigate St Mary’s School Chart lane, Reigate RH2 7RN 01737244880 office@reigatestmarys.org
facebook.com/ReigateStMarys
“I would happily recommend this nursery to friends. Staff have a great connection with my son. He is very happy here, he loves the outdoor playtime. He always has a smile on his face after spending the day here.” Parent, www.daynurseries.co.uk
Please call 01276 855866 or email pennypot.nursery@childbase.com Pennypot Day Nursery and Preschool, Pennypot Lane, Chobham GU24 8DH
www.childbasepartnership.com
An outstanding education for girls aged 3-18 Register for Open Events at www.suttonhigh.gdst.net
55 Cheam Road, Sutton, Surrey SM1 2AX T. 020 8225 3001 E. admissions@sut.gdst.net
Junior School of babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG17 | 73
en Op
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OUT AND ABOUT
mini
AGENDA
Charlot te Tomlinson-White ROU N DS U P SU R R EY ’S BE ST EVENTS
Summer Holidays: Five go on a Garden Adventure!
Summer Holidays: Five go on a Garden Adventure! RHS GARDEN WISLEY Wisley Lane, Woking GU23 6QB 0845 260 9000 rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley Celebrate Enid Blyton’s Famous Five with free themed crafts, den building, garden games and storytelling, plus a drop-in tea party to celebrate the author’s birthday on Friday 11 August. Admission: Adults, £12.60; children, £6.30; family ticket, £32.40; under-fives go free. Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September, 10am to 5pm.
Summer Theatre: Wind in the Willows HATCHLANDS PARK East Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RT 01483 444334 nationaltrust.org.uk Pack up your picnic and head to Hatchlands for some open-air theatre, as Ratty, Badger and Toad come to life. Can they beat the sly weasel to save Toad Hall? With costumes and music, this charming tale will enchant all ages. Booking essential. Admission: Adults; £12; children, £8; under-fives go free. Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 August, 6pm to 8pm.
Mini Aces Club
The Gruffalo
BROOKLANDS MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN 01932 857381 brooklandsmuseum.com
RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1Q J 0844 871 7615 atgtickets.com
Designed for little ones under five years, experience the museum through stories, crafts, song and dance, with a focus on different objects and exhibits at the museum each month. Booking essential. Admission: £2 per child and accompanying adult, plus standard museum admission applies. Thursday 13 July, 10.30am to 11.15am and 11.30am to 12.15pm.
Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical musical 55-minute adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Expect songs, laughs and lots of scary fun for little ones aged three years and over. Admission: From £15.15 each. Friday 18 to Sunday 20 August, performance times vary.
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OUT AND ABOUT
Pop! A Magical Comedy Show
Dogs Don’t Do Ballet
Summer Family Fun Festival
Animal Antics
Animal Antics
Dogs Don’t Do Ballet
Outdoor Cinema
GODSTONE FARM Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone RH9 8LX 01883 742546 godstonefarm.co.uk
THE HARLEQUIN THEATRE Warwick Quadrant, Redhill RH1 1NN 01737 276500 harlequintheatre.co.uk
GUILDFORD LIDO Stoke Road, Guildford GU1 1HB guildfordlido.co.uk
Enjoy everything from pig racing and pony grooming to guinea pig brushing and piglet feeding. Plus, little ones can burn off some energy in the adventure playground and indoor soft-play area. Admission: Adults, £8.90; children (2-16 years), £8.90; children (1-2 years), £3.40; under-ones go free. Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September, 10am to 6pm.
Biff is not like other dogs, he likes moonlight, music and walking on his tiptoes. You see, Biff thinks he’s a ballerina! Based on the bestselling children’s book by Anna Kemp and Sara Ogilvie, this feel-good show is brought to life with music, songs and puppets. Admission: £10.50 each. Saturday 8 July, 2pm.
Rustic Sunday
PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE 01932 868113 painshill.co.uk
RURAL LIFE CENTRE Reeds Road, Tilford, Farnham GU10 2DL 01252 795571 rural-life.org.uk Kids will love trying their hand at traditional crafts, riding the steam train and exploring the site. With demos, live music and delicious homemade produce. Admission: Adults, £10; children, £7; under-fours go free. Sunday 30 July, 10am to 5pm.
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Jane Austen Day
Pack a picnic and head to Painshill Park to enjoy a day of fun for all the family, with Georgian-themed activities, games, delicious Georgian treats and a selection of readings from Jane Austen’s classic novels. Admission: Adults, £8; children, £4.50; under-fives go free. Sunday 16 July, 10am to 4pm.
Enjoy a brilliant outdoor cinema experience in the grounds of Guildford Lido. Laugh along with animated comedy Shrek on Friday 14 July, or get lost in the magical musicality of The Jungle Book on Friday 18 August. An evening swim and slides are included in the ticket price. Admission: Adults, 12.50; children, £10. Friday 14 July to Sunday 20 August, from 7pm.
Summer Family Fun Festival
Pop! A Magical Comedy Show G LIVE London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA glive.co.uk Join hapless hero Christian Lee in this clown and magic show that follows his adventures at sea. Think Mr Bean meets Charlie Chaplin in this wordfree feast of comedy, suitable for kids aged three to eight. Admission: £10.50 each. Saturday 22 July, 11.30am and 2.30pm.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
THE LIGHTBOX Chobham Road, Woking GU21 4AA thelightbox.org.uk
HASLEMERE EDUCATIONAL MUSEUM 78 High Street, Haslemere GU27 2LA 01428 642112 haslemeremuseum.co.uk
The Lightbox Summer Family Fun Festival returns with a packed programme of drop-in and bookable workshops. Enjoy balloon modelling, pony petting mermaid crafts and lots more. Admission: Free; suggested donation, £2. Tuesday 25 to Friday 28 July, times vary.
This drop-in storytime session is for children under five, and their parents. Listen to the tale of the caterpillar and then explore the garden and galleries to see if you can find one! Admission: Adults, £1; children, £2. Friday 7 July, 10.30am to 11.30am.
OUT AND ABOUT
Summer Holiday Family Activities
Room on the Broom
Wings & Wheels 2017
The Railway Children
Kew Science Festival
Let’s Meet in Neverland
Wings & Wheels 2017
RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1Q J 0844 871 7615 atgtickets.com
KEW GARDENS Richmond TW9 3AB 020 8332 5655 kew.org
RIVER WEY & GODALMING NAVIGATIONS & DAPDUNE WHARF Wharf Road, Guildford GU1 4RR nationaltrust.org.uk
DUNSFOLD AERODROME Cranleigh GU6 8HY wingsandwheels.net
Enjoy this musical adaptation of the children’s classic from Stephen Kingsbury and Ben Sleep, which aims to bring the delights of The Railway Children to another generation. Admission: From £12.25 each. Tuesday 29 August to Sunday 3 September, times vary.
Room on the Broom NEW VICTORIA THEATRE Peacocks Centre, Woking GU21 6GQ 0844 871 7645 atgtickets.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: ELIZABETH RANSOM AND THE LIGHTBOX
Kew Science Festival
This magical musical stage adaptation from the awardwinning Tall Stories is guaranteed to sweep you and your little ones away, featuring enchanting puppetry and original songs. Join the Witch and her cat, plus their friendly hitch-hikers, on a mission to defeat the dragon. Admission: From £15.15 each. Friday 21 to Sunday 23 July, performance times vary.
Don your lab coat and dig out your goggles for this year’s free Science Festival at Kew. Enjoy three days of workshops, talks and interactive experiments that will not only inspire the whole family, but celebrate the work of Kew scientists. Admission: Adults, from £15.50; children, from £2.50; underfours go free. Friday 4 to Sunday 6 August, 10am to 6.30pm.
Hatch POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com Enter this vibrant world for little ones aged two to five, and follow the extraordinary journey of an egg through different sensory worlds. It’s a perfect introduction to music and theatre for babies. Admission: £12.50 each. Friday 7 July to Sunday 27 August, times vary.
Discover the property’s own Neverland Island, follow the fairy trail, have a go at swordfighting on a plank and more. Don’t forget to turn up dressed as your favourite Peter Pan character or make part of your costume there. Admission: £2.50 per child, plus standard admission applies. Every Thursday throughout August, 11am to 5pm.
Wings & Wheels returns to Dunsfold Aerodrome with something for all the family. Enjoy thrilling aviation displays from the RAF Red Arrows, RAF BBMF and more, and step inside the Wheels Zone to marvel at a variety of supercars performing stunts and passenger rides. Sid’s Zone is designed especially for kids, with trails and pedal cars. Admission: Adults, £22; children, £7; under-fives go free. Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 August, 9am to 9pm.
Summer Holiday Family Activities
Milkshake! Live: The Magic Story Book Tour
BROOKLANDS MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN brooklandsmuseum.com
G LIVE London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA glive.co.uk
There’s a lot on at the museum this summer, including car and vintage bus rides, Bertie the Bear appearances and the noisy Kids’ Tours on Concorde. Admission: Adults, £11; children, £6; under-fives go free. Monday 24 July to Thursday 24 August, 10am to 5pm.
Set amongst Milkshake! Live’s magical bookcase, this musical masterpiece will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairytales. Admission: Adults; £17.50; children, £16. Saturday 12 August, 12pm and 3.30pm.
babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 77
OUT AND ABOUT
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Summer Fun on The Farm
Summer Fun on The Farm BOCKETTS FARM PARK Young Street, Fetcham, Leatherhead KT22 9BS bockettsfarm.co.uk Enjoy a full programme of activities, including stamp collecting on the Animal Passport Trail, panning for gold and pony rides. Plus, don’t miss the brilliant Water Wars Splash Zone – great fun for all ages! Admission: Adults, £10.50; children, £10.95; under-twos go free. Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September, 10am to 5.30pm.
Watermill Wednesdays: Flour Fairies SHALFORD MILL Shalford, Guildford GU4 8BS 01483 561389 nationaltrust.org.uk Have fun inventing new fairies – the wheat fairy, barley fairy, spelt fairy – and create your own fairy badges, wings and wands to take home. Admission: £2 per child, plus standard admission applies. Every Wednesday throughout August, 11am to 4pm.
Meet the Millers SHALFORD MILL Shalford, Guildford GU4 8BS nationaltrust.org.uk Children aged six years and over are invited to join Maggie from Imbhams Farm Granary to have a go at making and baking picnic pizzas. Perfect for budding chefs – best get practising your dough tossing! Admission: £5 per child, plus standard admission applies. Thursday 9 August, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm.
Bug Hunting and Pond Dipping RIVER WEY & GODALMING NAVIGATIONS & DAPDUNE WHARF Wharf Road, Guildford GU1 4RR nationaltrust.org.uk Discover what is living under the water as you look for diving beetles, slimy snails and more. Plus, keep your eyes peeled as you venture on a bug hunt. How many types will you find? Admission: £2.50 per child, plus standard admission applies. Every Tuesday throughout August, 11am to 5pm.
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Groups & Classes A SELEC TION OF LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E
Tristan wears cotton shirt and shorts set, £69, Rachel Riley.
STOCKISTS Annaliv annaliv.co.uk Bonpoint bonpoint.com Caramel caramel-shop.co.uk Crafts 4 Kids crafts4kids.co.uk
CLASSICAL MUSIC CLASSES
FOR WATER BABIES
Classes held in Esher for babies and toddlers Baby Maestro offers a whole world of music to discover each week. Fun percussion instruments, puppets and other props are used to engage and stimulate your child’s interest in music. Each session, a well-known piece of classical music is used to act as a theme which is explored through nursery rhymes and interactive play to create an exciting and stimulating musical experience. The classes are taught by a professional musician who will be playing the clarinet or piano each week, exposing your child to the beautiful world of classical music throughout each session. 07973 119855 info@babymaestro.co.uk babymaestro.co.uk
Teach them to swim The UK’s leading baby swimming company, Water Babies, runs fun and innovative swimming classes for newborns through to toddlers in Surrey, providing core swimming skills that could potentially save your little ones’ lives. The lessons are taught by world-class instructors and the company’s award-winning programme gives babies confidence in the water and teaches safety skills from birth. They are great classes for you and your baby to experience together. Water Babies was also voted best National Baby & Toddler Development Activity in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Contact Melissa, or visit the website for class details. 01932 227428 waterbabies.co.uk
RHYTHM AND NO BLUES
AS SOON AS YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN PLAY FOOTBALL!
Elfie London elfielondon.com Freya Lillie freya-lillie.com Harrods harrods.com Liberty libertylondon.com Marks & Spencer marksandspencer.com Next next.co.uk Olivier Baby & Kids olivierbaby.com Pepa & Co pepaandcompany.com Rachel Riley rachelriley.co.uk Selfridges selfridges.com
The Little White Company thewhitecompany.com Wild & Gorgeous wildandgorgeous.co.uk Zara zara.com ZooBug zoobug.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN COPSEY
Smallable en.smallable.com
Classes held six days a week Monkey Music is the pre-school music group for children aged three months to four years, which won Best National Pre-schooler Development Activity – as voted for by parents! Monkey Music introduces music to children in a fun way that they can easily understand, with specialist teachers who gently encourage social and musical skills in a stimulating environment. The classes use a combination of music, percussion instruments and visual props. More than 300 songs, musical games and movement ideas are used. Enjoy a complimentary introductory session. For contacts and classes in your local area, visit the website. monkeymusic.co.uk
Classes across Surrey The very best football coaching for toddlers and children for ages 18 months to seven years. The classes are unique in that they involve the whole family and encourage parent participation. Join the fun and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks Football Classes! Birthday parties, private and holiday classes, nursery and after-school sessions can all be arranged. Kiddikicks is also available to franchise – contact Kiddikicks now for more information. Sign up to receive your free kit (registration fees apply). 01932 489 335 | 07590 467571 jen@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk
COMPETITIONS
CHANCE TO WIN
Exclusive competitions and offers for Baby Surrey readers ONE OF THREE SKINCARE KITS To celebrate the launch of Unity Beauty Essentials – the first luxury beauty brand designed specifically for pregnancy – we have three kits to give away, worth £95 each. They contain the Complete Duo Stretch Mark Cream + Oil, Daily Body Hydrator and Intensive Body Nourisher. Both nurturing and luxurious, the label’s debut range will ensure your pregnancy beauty ritual is a pleasure from start to finish. unitybeautyessentials.com
ONE OF FIVE MELOBABY CHANGING WALLETS WITH METANIUM The nappy rash experts at Metanium are giving away five Melobaby All-In-One Nappy Wallet & Change Mats (RRP £38), plus a sample of Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion with each one. The Melobaby wallet holds everything you need for a quick nappy change on the go, as well as doubling up as a handy changing mat. Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash, and is ideal to keep in your bag. The spray format is easy to use – two spritzes should be enough to form a thin protective layer, simply pat the area to maximise coverage. metanium.co.uk
A WOODLAND FRIENDS GIFT SET
ONE OF THREE FAMILY ZOO PASSES
Introducing Little Aurelia from Aurelia Probiotic Skincare; a range of luxury, bio-organic skincare designed to nurture your child’s wellbeing and help them sleep soundly. Designed exclusively for babies and young children, Little Aurelia blends gentle yet effective botanical ingredients with soothing essential oils to calm and settle at bath time and before bed. One lucky winner will receive the Woodland Friends Gift Set, worth £200, featuring the full range of skincare from Little Aurelia, including top-to-toe wash, massage oil, rescue cream and pillow mist, plus a limited-edition Sleep Time Tales book. The set comes in an enchanting suitcase, adorned with delightful illustrations of Little Aurelia’s Woodland Friends – perfect for keeping your little one’s keepsakes and treasures in. aureliaskincare.com/littleaurelia
This summer, visit Marwell Zoo near Winchester and spend time with its playful primates at ‘Lemur Loop’, a new immersive walkthrough exhibit. Plus, from 1 August to 1 October, enjoy The Great Brick Safari: An Interactive Experience with Lego that is exclusive to Marwell Zoo. Along the trail will be a 1.5 tonne elephant and even a life-size Bengal tiger, and we have three family passes, worth £63 each, to give away! marwell.org.uk
ENTER ONLINE AT BABYSURREY.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS babysurrey.co.uk | JUL/AUG 2017 | 81
BUSINESS
Alice says Amy & Ivor is very much a family run business, and incorporates their ethical values
INSPIRE What inspired you to set up your label, Amy & Ivor? The business really started by accident. I was looking for some traditional moccasins for my two baby daughters. After failing to find anything that was suitable, I decided to have a go at making a pair from some red leather I had in my studio. Those little shoes turned out nicely, and every time the girls wore them we would get compliments about them. Encouraged by a friend, I started a Facebook page. The response was incredible and the rest is history, as they say! Where did the name come from? It’s named after my grandparents. At the time I set up Amy & Ivor, I was starting to get itchy feet creatively and was considering starting a blog to show all the crafts I was doing with my girls. When the business was born the name went to that instead. I love that it isn’t too definitive in any one direction. What did you do before you set up the business? My professional background is as a creative textile developer.
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ALICE HEDLEY The founder of children’s footwear brand Amy & Ivor talks business, family and flexible working I have always worked in fashion. I worked as part of the design team at Burberry and then on the designer ranges at Puma, and as a consultant for smaller luxury brands. I feel lucky to have worked in teams with some of the best creative professionals on the planet. Are your children an inspiration for the brand? I started Amy & Ivor when my daughters, Edith and Clementine, were babies. At the time, all the soft shoes you could buy for babies were covered in motifs and I was looking for something more stylish. The girls are now six and four – I’ve made
them footwear throughout their childhoods and they still wear them as their ‘comfy shoes’ now. They have grown up around the business and are always involved in whatever is going on. The brand is an extension of our lifestyle. As a family we are very ethically minded, so it makes sense that in the business we work by those rules, too. Describe a typical day for you. My youngest daughter started
Designs are made from soft, chrome-free leather
school last September. After four years of having one or both girls by my side each day, this is a huge change of routine. So now, for the first time, my day is split into work time and ‘mum time’. I get up with the kids and get them to school and then start work right after the school run. I catch up with the Amy & Ivor team and then we get to work. Right now we’re a team of like-minded mums working flexibly. The mornings are busier – answering everyone’s queries – then in the afternoon I tend to get time to get my teeth into the next project. I pick up the kids at 3pm, then work again in the evening once the girls are in bed. What is your advice for anyone wanting to start a business? I’m proud to have managed to be a mother and run a business. So in light of this, I think my advice would be to follow your passion. Always make decisions you are 100% happy with – don’t ever compromise your integrity – and, of course, be prepared to work very hard! bs amyandivor.com
With over 30 configurations and an integrated ride-on-board, the new British designed and engineered iCandy Orange is packed with innovation. Featuring our trademark elevator adaptors, unique 'cinema' double seating mode and a 64 litre basket, the Orange leads the field whilst still being compact enough to fit through a standard door. Brilliantly flexible, beautifully crafted and absolutely futureproof.
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