Cherubs Magazine - Spring Edition 2020

Spring 2020 • Issue 8

Go Exploring with M&S Launched in stores, the Roald Dahl & Natural History Museum collaboration with Marks & Spencer is a playful edit of daywear designs featuring much-loved characters from one of the nation’s favourite authors and amazing animal facts from one of London’s top attractions.

The 18-piece range features a bright and vibrant colour palette, combining animals from some of Roald Dahl’s most famous stories including Fantastic Mr Fox, The Enormous Crocodile, The Giraffe And The Pelly And Me , and James and the Giant Peach, with fascinating facts provided by the Natural History Museum’s own scientists to further bring this wonderful edit to life.

The collection includes matching sweatshirt and jogger sets, colourful t-shirts, stylish shorts, and cheerful dresses for kids who love an adventure. Made using 100% sustainably sourced cotton, your little explorers will love this practical yet cool addition to their wardrobes.

The Extraordinary Explorers collection is available online and in selected stores. An edit of pieces from the range will also be available from the Natural History Museum gift shop.

Long Sleeve Tee £9 each • Tee £9 each • Shorts £10 each • Sweatshirt £12 each • Joggers £12 each www.marksandspencer.com

Contents Spring 2020 • Issue 8

Spring is a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can be. It seems like we’ve waited a lifetime to see blossoms appearing on trees and daffodils brightening up flower beds across the country. Bizarrely, for many, spring is the time for change. You would think the change would appear typically at the end of the year, yet there is something about this season that allows you to take a deep breath, smile and embrace new beginnings. I for one am scared of change.

I guess scared is a strong word, but it’s true. I like the idea of new beginnings however, when it comes to the crunch I hesitate for a long time. One thing I’ve learnt about myself is that once I’ve settled into something – whether it be a home, a lifestyle or even the layout of this very publication – I find it hard to break away and change it.

Why? What’s the worst that could happen? I’ll tell you what could happen, you could make the change, hate it and revert back to the old way as fast as you could say “oh deary me”. Or, you take the leap and never look back. When I first started Cherubs my Mum bought me a framed quote that reads “...but what if it all goes right?”

What if it does? How will you know if you don’t try. This spring, do something for you. Make the change, wear the bright red lippy on the school run, go from blonde to brunette, change your job role, take the year out... do something that gives you more zest for life.

Enjoy this beautiful season and embrace all the change that is to come your way. You will notice some of the changes I’ve made for this season’s edition and I hope that you love it as much as I do.

News 6 Spring News Style 10 Style Nurse Clinic 12 Spring Closet Home Life 26 Does she ever stop talking?

28 Storytelling with a difference Girl Power 30 Power to Empower Sustainability 34 How to put a smile on your child’s face Education 38 Is your child suffering from exam stress?

40 The dangers of being online What’s on 54 Top things to do this spring

In the words of my friend Lorna’s mum: “JFDI darling!” You will have to read the article on page 30 to find out the meaning.

Happy spring!

Sevim x

Dont forget

MOTHER’S DAY 22ND MARCH HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO ALL BUT ESPECIALLY TO MINE

EDITOR

Follow us on social media for regular updates @CherubsMagazine

To advertise in our next issue email info@cherubsmagazine.com or call 020 3978 7332

While we take every care to ensure details are correct the publisher will take no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are advised to check information published with individual advertisers and take legal advice where appropriate before entering into any transactions.

Where prices or dates are quoted they are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change. Unless specifically stated the publisher does not endorse any product or service appearing in the magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher.

Cherubs Magazine

Cherubs Team

ANTONIA

CHRISTIANNA

EDA

STYLE EDITOR

HEALTHY FOOD EDITOR

TRAVEL EDITOR

Antonia Sanchez-Toomey is the founder of Tailor Made Living, a lifestyle store in north London where her passion for style comes to life. Antonia uses her skills for curating collections of lifestyle goods and fashion in her role as style editor of Cherubs. @tailormadelivingstore www.tailormadeliving.co.uk

Christianna is a mum and training nutritional therapist, inspired by her children and love of food to create healthy, fun and tasty recipes. Her philosophy is simple… food should bring joy and nourishment, and that is reflected in all her cooking. For daily inspiration follow @eathappyfeelgood www.eathappyfeelgood.co.uk

Eda Ayyildiz is a luxury travel agent specialising in family adventure and beach breaks, as well as ski holidays, city breaks and cruises. With her expertise in many destinations, a 24-hour duty office and full financial protection, she can take the hard work away from planning the perfect holiday. @eda_travelcounsellor www.travelcounsellors.com/eda.ayyildiz

MARY

ELENA

CATHY

HEALTH & FITNESS EDITOR

BEAUTY EDITOR

YOGA & MOVEMENT COLUMNIST

Mary Huckle is a personal trainer and Pilates instructor, and is the owner of Breakthrough Fitness. Her passion for anything health and fitness related has been a lifelong affair. She left the world of finance in 2003 to retrain as a fitness instructor and personal trainer at the YMCA. Mary is also qualified in pre and post natal and children’s fitness. @maryhuckle www.breakthroughfitness.co.uk

After teaching for eight years Elena decided to take her true love to the next level.

Elena has been freelance since 2018, creating a YouTube channel and working with celebs on TV and high-end modelling agencies. Elena creates bespoke looks for all individuals, whether it be a for special occasion or campaigns. @els_makeup_box

Cathy Underwood is a busy mum of two and the founder of the award-winning Yoga4mums and IMTYoga, specialising in somatic provision for autism and special needs. Alongside her therapeutic work, Cathy offers a variety of classes, retreats and enrichment days. @cathyunderwoodyoga www.yoga4mums.com

Contributors

ISOBEL & VICTORIA

JAMIE & TOM DAD BLOGGERS

GRANDPARENT BLOGGER

FASHION STYLIST

@poochesandprams

@daddyanddad

@basket.of.treasures

@thestylenurse

PET BLOGGERS

AIMEE

CHRISTINA

LIFESTYLE BLOGGER

SUSTAINABLE STYLE BLOGGER

FOOD BLOGGER

PAUL

LITTLE MISS SQUID

@hart_at_home

@n4mummy

@daddelicious

@fbssquidsquad

DR. LARISA CORDA

MURRY MORRISON

JENNY

@tassomai

@grizzlibear_gb

SUNAYANA

HOLISTIC THERAPIST

@feelgoodn14

Designer: Chris Webb

cherubsmagazine.com

KAREN

KAREN

OBSTETRICIAN, GYNAECOLOGIST & FERTILITY EXPERT

@drlarisacorda

Printers: The Roma Group, 3 Drakes, Enfield

CHILD AMBASSADOR

EDUCATION EXPERT

CREATIVE

Bio Picture: Feri, www.feriphotography.co.uk

Cherubs Magazine

NEWS

Spring News

Maggie & Rose comes to Islington Have you heard about the new family members’ club arriving in Islington this month? Created by mums in 2006, Maggie & Rose is an inspiring haven for families to come together to eat, play and learn. With club houses across London (not to mention Hong Kong and China), members can enjoy energy-busting play areas, creative classes and healthy family dining in the most beautiful of spaces. They also host the most memorable children’s parties and creative camps – you don’t have to be a member to access these, everyone is welcome! Find out more about membership, or book a tour at www.maggieandrose.com

Self-care for the little ones The arrival of spring brings longer days and makes us feel a lot more happier in general. Beautiful weather, gorgeous blooms and everyone just comes out from the winter drag. Self-care is important for everyone in the family and it’s equally important to start your child thinking about it, too. Check out The Little Self Care box from Seventeen Minutes; this box will encourage your child to reflect on their emotions and help you open the conversation about mental health.

The Self-Care Box for Children

£22.00

Seventeen Minutes www.seventeenminutes.co.uk 6 | Cherubs Magazine

Everyone loves a cookbook – here’s our favourite for the season

The Rabbit Plate would make the perfect gift for children this Easter.

The Wood Life Project The Wood Life Project is a truly eco-friendly brand which aims to replace the plastic items in people’s homes, with beautiful, innovative, wooden products, which are manufactured in the UK, using wood sustainably harvested from trees in the UK only. The children’s plate range makes wonderful, guilt-free and timeless gifts to all the children in our lives. They are practical and durable and can be handed down as heirlooms from generation to generation.

Find them at www.thewoodlifeproject.com or @thewoodlifeproject on Instagram.

The Self-Care Cookbook

So many of us go about our busy lives without eating wholesome food. Our bodies need fuel to get through the day (and night) otherwise we get ill, feel low and have trouble sleeping. Gemma introduces us to eating as the ultimate chef, each recipe has been crafted to be nurturing to your body – and mind.

www.gemswholesomekitchen.com

Welcoming a new world at Paultons Park Come on Storm Chasers! Join Paultons Park and experience the new world – Tornado Springs, featuring 8 incredible new rides and experiences including a spinning coaster, gyro swing ride and a driving school attraction. Set in a midwest desert resort town in the American heyday of the 1950s, a trip to Tornado Springs is a vacation like no other!

Opens 19th May 2020. www.paultonspark.co.uk

Make a splash with Muddy Puddles spring/ summer collection.

Introducing for the first-time UV protective Swimwear created from eco-friendly fabrics, using recycled plastic bottles.

Bursting with vibrant colours, the ‘Save our Oceans’ collection has been designed using bold, eye-catching prints. The sustainable UV swimwear UPF 50+ ensures increased levels of protection while allowing maximum fun in the sun. And, in those unpredictable British spring and summer seasons, the lightweight, breathable EcoLight Rain Jacket and Puddlestomper suit keeps little explorers dry and warm on adventures! www.muddypuddles.com @n4mummy’s children Daisy & Laurie having a splashing time.

Özlem’s Turkish Table

Born and raised in Turkey, Özlem loves sharing the historical and cultural riches of her homeland through its cuisine. This is a book not just about Turkish cuisine, with simple, healthy, easy to prepare dishes beautifully illustrated, but also about Turkish people, places and customs.

www.ozlemsturkishtable.com

Clean Cakes

Delicious patisserie made with whole, natural and nourishing ingredients and free from gluten, dairy and refined sugar. Perfect for anyone having to cut out gluten, dairy and refined sugar yet still want to bake nourishing treats.

www.henriettainman.com

Cherubs Magazine | 7

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Easter time with

Party Society can help design, plan and create your event or party!

Our team of specialists bring together the very best from the party and entertainment industry to create bespoke family occasions, children’s parties, creative corporate and private events with a unique focus on delivering a captivating and memorable experience for your guests to

enjoy. Browse the Party Society’s shop for inspiration; there are bespoke party pieces, hand-selected venues; there are baked goods, exquisite catering, events styling, a dedicated events team and much more.

Each service provider engages directly with a client via the ‘message seller’ button and

all bookings/payments are made securely through Party Society. Products can be sent directly to a venue, home address or even to the office. ‘Chat and book’ while commuting, completing a supermarket shop or in the bath. It’s as easy as that!

Easter Bunny Collection £5.00 per cake

Bunny Rabbit Party Bags £5.40

2 Chicken-Shaped Treat Basket £7.00

On The Farm Dinner Plates £7.50

Floral Bunny Cookie Cutters £10.00

Easter Egg Pinata £24.99

Hop To My Party Kit £38.00

2hrs Children’s Party Entertainment £250.00

www.partysociety.co.uk 8 | Cherubs Magazine

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STYLE

Style Nurse Clinic

Getting dressed in the morning can be quite a chore after having children, we often find ourselves throwing anything on that fits just to get out of the door. Often we need a little advice or guidance to help find that perfect ‘throw on’ item. Meet Karen – Cherubs’ very own style nurse

“I’ve always been used to wearing low-waisted jeans. However, after having the kids I’ve become really aware of the rolls spilling over the top. It’s stopping me from wearing shorter tops and I’m now opting for long tops to cover the lumps – can you recommend a pair of jeans that would solve the problem?”

Ah! The perfect pair of jeans, otherwise known as the holy grail of shopping. And quite possibly the question I get asked the most, where can I find the best fitting/most flattering pair of jeans? My advice is always to try on as many pairs and different styles as you are prepared to do, until you find the style that most suits your own individual shape and size. As daunting as this may sound, it is really worth it when you find ‘the one’.

Like all clothes, they should fit well, as clothes that are too loose or tight can in fact make you look bigger than you really are.

In this scenario, I would advise trying a ‘mid-rise’ as this will provide more coverage as it hits higher on the waist, therefore revealing less flesh overall. I am a big fan of a boyfriend/girlfriend jean for an everyday look as they typically allow a loose and comfortable fit and the straighter/looser leg shape can be more flattering than a tight/skinny jean look. Another option could be to try a ‘Mum’ jean for an even higher waist if you feel you would like more coverage in this area.

Also going for a darker shade of denim will give the illusion of smaller hips, longer legs and so on, if this is desired. It takes time but you’ll be so pleased when you find them. Good luck!

Can you find me a dress you would wear with trainers?

Mum life means that we can’t wear heels all day, but still want to feel pretty in a dress!?

This dress will see you right though to spring/ summer. Wear it now with a pair of trainers and a leather jacket… swap for a denim jacket and slides as the weather warms up. Layer lots of gold, chunky jewellery for a more luxe look and swap the slides for a pair of low heel white mule sandals for date night. Super chic!

What’s your must-have hand cream in your handbag?

As a nurse, my hands have definitely taken a bit of a battering over the years, so I was very pleased to be recently Introduced to this hero product.

Developed with nurses to help combat the effects of relentless hand-washing, Nursem is a range of therapeutic formulas with naturally derived ingredients, to really care for your hands. For every product you buy, they also give a month’s worth of free Nursem to a nurse or midwife – the Nursem Promise. This caring hand cream gives protection for hard-working hands with medical grade Manuka honey NPA +15, barrier-restoring oils and soothing White Willow extract. It gets a big thumbs up from me.

Enquiries: mail@thestylenurse.co.uk Instagram: @thestylenurse 10 | Cherubs Magazine

STYLE

Spring Closet Neutral layers

Yes spring is here but those bright days can be chilly, so warm layers and modern classics are key.

Cashmere jumper

£159.00

Hush www.hush-uk.com

Accessories work with both looks Graphite trainers

£99.00

Next www.next.co.uk

Leather joggers

£295.00

Hush www.hush-uk.com Cross body bag

£55.00

Estella Bartlett www.estellabartlett.com 12 | Cherubs Magazine

STYLE

Spring brights Get ready for long days and warm sunshine with spring brights that will put a ‘spring’ in your step.

Pink leopard print shirt dress

£75.00

Oliver Bonas www.oliverbonas.com

Slouchy boots

£89.99

Mango www.mango.com

Wool-blend cardigan

£85.00

& Other Stories www.stories.com

Link earrings

£175.00

Monica Vinader www.monicavinader.com

Tortoiseshell glasses

£98.00

Arket www.arket.com

Instagram: @tailormadelivingstore Website: www.tailormadeliving.co.uk cherubsmagazine.com

Cherubs Magazine | 13

HEALTH

Living with Polycystic Ovaries

By Dr Larisa Corda

Polycystic ovaries affect one in five women in the UK and are therefore very common. The term is a bit of a misnomer in that the ovaries do not contain cysts but instead small follicles that contain multiple immature eggs.

Not all women with polycystic ovaries have the syndrome and not all women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have all the symptoms, which can vary.

Common symptoms of PCOS include: • irregular periods or no periods at all • difficulty getting pregnant (because of irregular ovulation or failure to ovulate) • excessive hair growth (hirsutism) – usually on the face, chest, back or buttocks • weight gain, thinning hair and hair loss from the head, oily skin or acne.

Women can also develop metabolic problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Depression is also more common, and involving the support of a counselor is important.

How is PCOS treated?

Lifestyle changes The great news is that by making certain adjustments to your lifestyle, the risk of any fertility and long term metabolic problems is greatly reduced. In fact, weight

14 | Cherubs Magazine

loss of just 5% can increase the chance of spontaneous ovulation. Exercise and diet are really important to help you to achieve this. You should aim to exercise about 20 to 30 mins each day and eat a diet that’s clean and unprocessed and as organic and fresh as possible. All of this is outlined in The Conception Plan Medications Certain medications can be used to help improve regularity of periods and reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Most typically, this is the oral contraceptive pill.

However, for those women looking to conceive, other medication, such as clomiphene, can be used to improve the chance of ovulation and therefore pregnancy.

Ultimately, IVF can be used to help. in addition, metformin is often used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it can also lower insulin and blood sugar levels in women with PCOS. As well as stimulating ovulation, encouraging regular monthly periods and lowering the risk of miscarriage, metformin can also have other long-term health benefits, such as lowering high cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Your doctor will decide on the best medication to put you on, by doing an overall assessment.

Other medications Medications can also be used to treat some of the other problems associated with PCOS, including:

• weight-loss medication, such as Orlistat, if you’re overweight

• cholesterol-lowering medication (statins)

if you have high levels of cholesterol in your blood • acne treatments • excessive hair-growth treatments.

Surgery If PCOS does not respond to medication, sometimes something called laparoscopic ovarian drilling is done, which involves stimulating the ovaries with heat during keyhole surgery.

Pregnancy risks If you have PCOS, you have a higher risk of pregnancy complications, such as high blood pressure (hypertension), pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and miscarriage, but by improving your overall health through lifestyle and having a normal BMI, you can lower the chances of all these potential problems and improve the chance of pregnancy. www.drlarisacorda.com

WELLBEING

Get that Spring Back in Your Step

By Mary Huckle

The winter season can be harsh, in the weather sense for sure, but it can also affect us both physically and mentally. It can affect our motivation to do things, to socialise and, in particular, we can lose our exercise mojo.

Spring is possibly the best season of the year to step outside and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Look around you, take a deep breath and notice the signs of a fresh start. Spring flowers and green shoots on shrubs and trees are aplenty. All around us, there’s a strong feeling of new beginnings; reviving and recharging, and possibly encouraging you to start doing something to improve your quality of life. So, here are some nuggets to help you on your way.

Fancy a challenge?

Let’s plank! OK, I see you, shuddering at the thought, but hear me out. One plank a day will primarily strengthen your core, shoulder and back muscles, but it will also work your chest, triceps, biceps and legs. Furthermore, planks will improve your stamina. In fact, more than just about any other exercise, planks can work your whole body. They improve posture, get your heart pumping and your blood flowing.

Here’s how to do a basic forearm plank.

1. Start in a four-point kneeling position. This is a forearm plank, so your elbows should be below your shoulders and your knees below your hips.

2. Extend legs behind you to bring your body into a lengthened position from the top of the head to the heels of your feet.

You should now be on your toes. Set your shoulders, activate the core and the gluteal muscles (buttocks).

3. Hold the position by keeping your body parallel to the floor, bottom down and head and neck aligned. Just breathe normally and never hold your breath.

Thinking about lifting weights?

Contrary to belief, lifting weights will most certainly not turn you into a bodybuilder, unless of course you invest years of focus on your nutrition and very heavy lifting. Lighter weights and increased repetitions will on the other hand help to tone and define muscles. Regular and consistent resistance work will turn fat into lean tissue. This burns more calories per pound than fat, and looks a lot nicer. More importantly, it helps to lay down calcium onto the bones and can therefore help combat the onset of osteoporosis.

Green tea could help you lose weight.

Studies have shown that it can boost your metabolism and, furthermore, a cup taken 90 minutes before exercise significantly reduced fat oxidation rate during exercise.

Research suggests that the compound catechin can help to break down excess fat and caffeine can increase the amount of energy the body uses.

cherubsmagazine.com

4. Try to hold the Plank for 30 seconds to begin with. Practice daily and you can certainly aim to hold the Plank for between one and three minutes within a matter of weeks.

5. Challenge yourself to perform one plank daily for 30 days.

It’s important to maintain good posture to avoid your back aching. If this is the case, drop the knees gently to the floor and sit back onto your feet to relieve the tension in your lower back. As the core muscles get stronger, your back should ache less.

Give it a try and let me know how you get on. #maryscherubchallenge

www.breakthroughfitness.co.uk Instagram @maryhuckle Facebook @breakthroughfitness1 Twitter @mary_huckle

Cherubs Magazine | 15

BEAT THE BURN

INTENSE ZONES THERE’S INTENSE, THEN THERE’S BLAZE. It’s new, it’s unique, like nothing you’ve experienced. A test of your strength, stamina and willpower, you’ll run, lift and fight. Blaze will push you to your limit and beyond.

An overload of light, sound and energy will power you through your workout.

Our instructors will challenge, push and support you, to achieve results you never thought possible.

A Myzone heart-rate belt will track your performance every step of the way.

With your heart rate streamed on digital screens, you’ll work your body at just the right intensity to get the most from your workout.

Get ready to feel the burn and join the tribe #Blazetribe

WELLBEING

Yoga for Proprioception

By Cathy Underwood

Proprioception and proprioceptive feedback are common words used within the neuro-diverse and special needs community. But what is it?

Proprioception Often referred to as the ‘sixth sense’, proprioception is a big part of our neurological lives. This multi-faceted experience relies on the physical senses to help us know how the body interacts within its environment.

For the neuro-typical, proprioception is pretty finely tuned as often we can quickly adapt. Walking about a crowded shopping centre without bumping into anyone is one example.

Proprioceptive feedback Here’s a simple exercise to test your proprioceptive feedback – close your eyes and now touch your nose. You touched it right?

You were able to complete the task because of your ability to move your body freely within the space it occupies. Physical interactions like this send neurological patterns to the brain and this reinforces a strong sense of body awareness.

Why do those living with special needs struggle with proprioception?

Sensory processing disorders are common to those living with special needs. Sounds, lights, smells, touch and taste can often prove too stimulating for them and, because proprioceptive feedback relies on the integration of all the senses, proprioception can be delayed.

Common proprioceptive dysfunction indicators

• • • • • •

clumsiness or bumping into things fidgeting flapping hands fear of walking down steps or jumping over objects poor postural control unaware or no interest in the space outside of peripheral vision.

How yoga helps improve proprioception Using a simple and regular yoga routine, as part of an individuals daily sensory diet, can help:

• • • • •

soothe the nervous system maintaining a calm and alert state encourage a positive body awareness develop a sense of self, using slow, mindful breathing gross and fine motor skills to improve co-ordination weight-bearing skills, balance and flexibility, providing lots of proprioceptive input.

Try this!

Breathing – pretend to hold a big beach ball. Inhale through the nose and expand your hands to make the ball bigger. Exhale slowly out across pursed lips, bringing hands closer together to make the ball smaller.

Balance – standing on one leg assume the Tree Pose – one foot pressed into the inner thigh. Place your hands together in prayer position in-front of your chest. Try balancing for 10 counts. Repeat on the other side.

Posture – stand tall. Stretch arms up to the sky lifting up and balance on the balls of the feet. Balance in the position with awareness of core. Slowly lower the arms down by your side and feet flat to the ground. Repeat.

Weight bearing – on all fours, slowly lift into Downward Dog pose – hands and feet pushing into the ground with the pelvis lifting to the sky. Take three steady breaths.

www.yoga4mums.com 18 | Cherubs Magazine

Resting – from all fours, sit back onto the heels into Child’s Pose – arms reaching forward and head down to the ground. Take three steady breaths.

Relaxation – deep pressure massage has a calming effect. Ask your child to lie either on their back or tummy. Apply gentle squishes from the feet up to the knees and the hands to the shoulders. Avoid other delicate areas.

Now accepting new children patients on NHS Hurry, limited spaces available

LIVING

Homeware Rattan lampshade

Today’s homeware is paying attention to sustainability and natural materials in an effort to promote a more conscious way of living. Natural materials such as rattan, mango wood and tableware made from stoneware and bamboo are a huge trend and, here at Cherubs we’re finding inspiration in everything green.

£59.00

Made www.made.com

Cushion cover

£12.99

H&M www.hm.com Metal watering can

£17.99

H&M www.hm.com The Healing Power of Plants hardcover

£9.35

Amazon www.amazon.co.uk

Vegan essential oil candle in bay and rosemary 120ml

Fawna wallpaper

£15.00

From £69.00 per panel

Join www.join.co.uk

Wild Hearts Wonder www.wildheartswonder.com

Set of 4 bowls

£32.00

Habitat www.habitat.co.uk

Green vase

Rattan chair

Oliver Bonas www.oliverbonas.com

Ikea www.ikea.com

£34.00

£95.00

Instagram: @tailormadelivingstore Website: www.tailormadeliving.co.uk 20 | Cherubs Magazine

LIVING

Refined sugar-free baking by

Courgette cake Ingredients Makes a 20cm cake

• 200ml sunflower oil • 3 large eggs • 150ml runny honey • 400g courgette, grated then squeezed in a tea towel to remove water

• 275g wholemeal self-raising flour • 2 tsp baking powder • 2 tsp mixed spice • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 150g mixed dried raisins • 1 orange, finely grated zest only Frosting

• 400g full-fat cream cheese • 50g unsalted butter, softened to room temp • 50ml maple syrup

cherubsmagazine.com

www.dadde licious.com @daddelic ious

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan and line a 20cm cake tin.

2. Pour the oil, eggs and honey into a large mixing bowl, whisk together, then add the courgette and mix.

3. In a separate bowl, sieve the flour, baking powder, mixed spice and cinnamon together, then add the mixed currants and orange zest and stir to coat in the flour.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture into the courgette mixture and stir gently until combined. Add the mixture to the baking tin and bake for 40 mins or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean (cover with foil halfway to stop the top burning if it’s looking dark).

5. Allow to cool in the tin for 5 mins, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Make the frosting: place the cream cheese, butter and maple syrup in a bowl and beat until smooth. Spread on top of the cake to decorate it.

Cherubs Magazine | 21

LIVING

EatHappyFeelGood

Ultimate chocolate muffins Like so many things in life, food is all about balance... treats are not only ok, sometimes they are necessary and these are definitely a treat.

Snacktivity We love a snacktivity in our house. And a colour-themed kitchen snack hunt is a great one. The rules are simple: mummy decides the colour and the children have to find as many snacks as they can of that colour. This is an interactive way for kids to connect to food in a fun way; so important for helping develop a good long-term relationship with food.

Ingredients

• 2 cups plain flour • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar • 2 large eggs • 1 1/4 cups buttermilk • 1/2 cup olive oil • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 3/4 cup chocolate chips • 1/4 cup toasted hazelnuts (optional but so good!)

Method

1. Preheat oven to 220C. Line your muffin tin with paper cases 2. Put a fine sieve over a large bowl and sift in the flour, cocoa, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and salt. Add the sugar, mix and set aside.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs with the buttermilk, oil and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon or a rubber spatula just until combined. Do not over mix. The batter will be thick and lumpy. That’s ok! Add chocolate chips and hazelnuts and fold together.

4. Divide the mixture between the muffin cases, filling almost all the way to the top. Bake for three minutes and then reduce the oven temperature to 180C. Continue to bake for an additional 12 to 15 minutes (15 to 20 minutes total), until a knife inserted into the centre of the muffin comes out clean. Let them cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. These are definitely best the same day. Nothing beats freshly made but they can also be frozen for up to two months.

22 | Cherubs Magazine

LIVING

Salmon and pea pasta An easy, delicious and full-of-goodness dinner on the table in 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, finely chopped • 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 clove garlic, grated • 500g pasta of your choice (I use pappardelle) • 4 skinless and boneless salmon fillets cut into cubes • 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley • 2 cups peas • 1 cup light cream (or use dairy-free alternative) • zest of 1 lemon • salt and pepper Method

1. Put the olive oil and onions in a large pan and cook till soft and lightly caramelised. Should take about 5 to 7 minutes.

2. While the onions are cooking, cook the pasta according to pack instructions.

3. Add the garlic to the onions and cook for another minute stirring continuously to ensure it doesn’t burn.

4. Add the salmon and cook for a few minutes until lightly coloured on all sides.

5. Add the cream, peas and parsley. Cook for a few minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

6. Add the lemon zest, season and stir through. If you want it a little looser add 1/4 cup of pasta water.

7. Drain the pasta and stir through the sauce.

Yoghurt overnight oats This is one of our favourite easy breakfasts and something we have at least once a week. With just a few minutes preparation at night, there is a healthy breakfast waiting for you in the fridge. I spent a few minutes prettying it up ready for its close up, but on a busy morning it goes from fridge to table in a couple of minutes.

Ingredients These are approximate because it depends on how thick you like it and what kind of yoghurt you use. It doesn’t really matter, it’s a delicious combination so start with these as a guideline and experiment till you find your favourite.

Makes two to three portions

• 1 cup yoghurt • 1 cup rolled oats • 1 tsp vanilla • 1 tsp maple syrup Method

1. The night before you want to have it for breakfast combine all ingredients in a bowl. Mix well, cover and leave in the fridge overnight. If it feels too thick you can add a little milk or water.

2. The next morning add whatever toppings you like. Berries, bananas, seeds, nuts, honey.

3. Here I’ve added banana, blueberries, seeds, honey and chia jam which I often have in the fridge.

Instagram: @eathappyfeelgood Website: www.eathappyfeelgood.co.uk cherubsmagazine.com

Cherubs Magazine | 23

TRAVEL

Where will you visit in 2020?

Start planning your perfect holiday, whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a luxurious couple’s retreat, an exotic all-inclusive escape or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone – whatever your tastes and budget may be.

Something for the family...

Hard Rock Hotel - Tenerife

Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife is a unique beachfront resort that delivers a real rock and roll experience. This completely renovated Costa Adeje hotel is notable for its Oasis and Nirvana towers that offer rousing views over the Atlantic or the property’s trio of sparkling swimming pools.

Indulge in ultimate luxury…

One&Only The Palm – Dubai

A tranquil retreat set away from the bustle of Dubai, lavish surroundings, delectable cuisine and a sense of blissful calm await at the exceptional One&Only The Palm. With a boutique Mediterranean feel, understated low-rise buildings and the sparkling sea on three sides, you’ll feel as if you’re on your own private island at this intimate resort.

in a rejuvenating massage, play a game of tennis or simply relax with a cocktail poolside, everything is included here, so you can do as much or as little as you please.

Discover a world of adventure…

Elephant Hills – Thailand

Discover your perfect allinclusive escape…

Sandals Ochi Beach – Jamaica

This all-inclusive resort offers two distinct settings, the tranquil Butler Village and the plantation-style Great House. Whether you want to swim, sail, snorkel, indulge

24 | Cherubs Magazine

Set amidst the stunning scenery of the Khao Sok National Park, the award-winning Elephant Hills is Thailand’s most animalfriendly elephant experience. Offering two to four-day adventure tours, an array of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities await, including feeding and interacting with Asia’s largest land animals once per stay and exploring mangrove swamps.

*This article was first published on www.travelcounsellors.co.uk

TRAVEL Eda’s must haves in the suitcase!

It’s not too early to think about winter?

Not at all! When is it ever too early to think about a holiday?

Club Med 20/21 is on sale at the moment and has an excellent all-inclusive ski, winter sun and other all-inclusive packages for families. They have a new resort in the Seychelles and in the La Rosiere in France: Receive a £100 off when you book a Club Med package when you quote Cherubs.

Holiday Dreaming

Travel Pouches

from £25.00

Elizabeth Scarlett www.elizabethscarlett.com Great Face SPF

£29.00

Space NK www.spacenk.com

Let’s take a Girly Trip to… Mykonos

Beach Towel

£21.00

The new Soho House is opening very soon and it’s the perfect place for a two night getaway with the girls. Boys, I haven’t forgotten you... Hotel Moments Budapest Is the perfect place to relax before an energetic eve out!

Dock & Bay www.dockandbay.com Swimwear

£55.00

Calzedonia www.calzedonia.com

Eda’s favourite spring spa escape - Sopwell House Fancy a cheeky romantic weekend away with your loved one kid FREE? This is a gorgeous Luxury Country House Hotel & Spa which is just 30 minutes from London.

Travel Mug

£21.00 Book your holiday today with

Amazon www.amazon.co.uk

Eda Ayyildiz Travel Counsellor

020 3393 5460 eda.ayyildiz@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/eda.ayyildiz

cherubsmagazine.com

Cherubs Magazine | 25

“

HOME LIFE

Does she ever stop talking?

Photo credit: @libby_pearce

By Aimee Hart

26 | Cherubs Magazine

HOME LIFE “Does she ever stop talking?” That’s a phrase I’ve heard about my daughter since she began the back and forth dance of conversation. Talking is one of, if not the most, important component of literacy and begins before a child has seen a book or picked up a pencil. Without the bank of vocabulary that children develop as they go through toddler-hood, their understanding of the most basic things is flawed. This is called oral language and children are born as a blank slate. No words present here until they are gifted them by those around them.

An interesting study (it was interesting, I promise) was conducted on what is now known as ‘The 30 Million Word Gap’, which proved that parents hold the key to children’s language development. The study concluded that by the time they are four years old, children who have basic interactions with language will know 30 million fewer words than their peers who have been given a rich variety of opportunities to converse. They then commented on the tight link between the number of words a child hears to their future academic success.

So, what can we do to support our offspring as they solidify their rich language skills? How can we ensure that the part of the brain built to digest language around them is secure and robust? This article will give you an insight into different ways to open the doors to meaningful chatter.

Language development is based on three functions: direction, instruction and dialogue.

simple actions and following instructions can only happen if the vocabulary is given to them correctly and coherently.

Dialogue is where we see the 30-million-word gap emerging. Opportunities for extended, rich, powerful conversations are key to challenging children’s current understanding and progressing that understanding further. Using sentences that start with ‘the five Ws’ – who, what, where, why, when – and then challenging them further with ‘How questions will encourage the children to use words more randomly. For example, when reading a book, stop periodically and ask: What do you think will happen next in the story?

Who do you think is going to solve the problem?

Why do you think the girl is sad?

How do you know she feels like that?

When have you felt like that before?

These questions will engage their own voice within their head and begin their own individual thought process. Offer your interpretation of these questions too, this will only add to the varied vocabulary for the children to digest. Conversation and reading go hand in hand, supercharging the language and reading experience for both the child and the parent. These three elements will then ensure the children take the verbal to the meaningful and understanding.

Top Tips for Building Vocabulary:

“Conversation and reading go hand in hand”

1. Find the time – find as many points in the day to

Direction is the first and main source of language that children hear from the day they are born. Parents will babble at their offspring knowing full well it will be a one-sided conversation. “Look at Daddy”, “Grab your toy”, “Walk to Mummy” are all sentences that begin early in childhood and develop into more structured direction as the children grow. “Eat your dinner please”, “Get dressed quickly” and “Put your rubbish in the bin” are ways to ensure children follow routines and complete simple tasks. All necessary to ensure children make links between the verbal and the physical.

3. Turn taking – talkative parents will allow for more

Instruction is built from these groups of words and the children then manipulate the words within their head and internalise them. “If you hold your brush like this you will be able to paint better”, “That is a lion, a baby lion is called a cub” and “If you press this button the computer will come on” will all leave an imprint on the children’s minds for future reference. They move the physical into the meaningful.

Direction and instruction are key for children to make their way in the world. Understanding how to complete

talk about anything and everything. In the car, at the shops, during bath time. Ask those key questions and listen to the words they respond with. Even if it seems nonsensical, give them time to elaborate or rephrase.

2. Use

those big words – don’t be afraid to use words they may not (or will not) know. Or think of synonyms for a commonly used work e.g. rather than ‘good’ use magnificent, wonderful, stupendous!

The children will giggle but you can guarantee they will use them in the future – having been added to the vocabulary bank. turn taking within conversations. Let the children elaborate regularly and give them opportunities to revise situations. For example: “So, tell me more about” or “What happened in that film?”

4. Books

– the written word can light the fire of vocabulary and by the time children get to school they will have already developed the ability to share a story. “This is mummy’s favourite”, “I read this to you when you were a baby” and “Why do you choose this book so often?” Having had parents who read to me constantly and discussed books frequently there are books that hold a special place in my heart. In the vocabulary bank, books are the interest that enables the bank balance to slowly increase.

In a nutshell, talking to your child using varied vocabulary as often as possible and letting them build their own voice, is the best way to develop their ability to express themselves clearly and converse with ease.

www.myevelynandme.com cherubsmagazine.com

Cherubs Magazine | 27

HOME LIFE

Storytelling with a difference

By Grandma Christina @basket.of.treasures

Leaves are growing on the trees, flowers are blooming, Warmer days are coming, hopefully anyway, and that can only mean one thing, spring is upon us. With spring comes new beginnings, but it’s also the perfect time for reminiscing and remembering.

Children love stories, fairy tales and superheroes, magic animals and mysterious aliens. But why not tell them real stories, about real people. Tell your grandchildren about you, their parents and grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Those photo albums no one looks at anymore are full of memories and stories waiting to be told.

As grandparents the most precious thing we can give our grandchildren is our time.

This is the perfect opportunity to sit back, let everyone else plant daffodils, decorate eggs, go on an Easter egg hunt.

Get out those photo albums, sit in the garden with your grandchildren, tell them who everyone is or ask if they recognise any faces. I’m sure you’ll remember some funny stories to retell. If you’re really prepared take some props too. For example, an old net curtain representing the veil on your wedding dress, a bag, a favourite piece of jewellery you still have.

The concept of time is a difficult one for children to grasp; it’s important that children learn the importance of yesterday and the promise of tomorrow. Visuals help with short-term time concepts; I always use an egg timer so if I give a time limit they know when the sand has run out they should have finished whatever was asked of them. Timetables made up of photos will also help in reminding children what will happen next and in what order.

Or, when the day is done, talk about what you did today and talk about what they did yesterday. This helps to reinforce memory and strengthen the memorisation muscles.

Short term memory will help process and recall new information. Long term memory will help develop a deeper understanding.

Of course, very young children won’t remember very much, but may remember

28 | Cherubs Magazine

today’s and yesterday’s activities with prompting. This is an easy activity to do, just tell the story of your day.

Those photo albums will allow children to see the passage of time, learn a little about their family, (why not make a family tree using photos) or remember the photos taken last time there was a party or when they were babies themselves.

If you want your children to be smart, tell them stories. If you want them to be brilliant, tell them more stories.

Albert Einstein

and what’s better than the story of you?

Treasure Basket I’ve made a basket filled with special memories: the shoes I wore to my engagement, my favourite bangles I wore as a teenager, the hair clips I wore to my daughter’s wedding, a favourite scarf, my Filofax from the ‘80’s (yes I admit I had a Filofax too), my first evening bag, the sparkly ball my grandchildren loved to play with as babies, a seashell we collected from the beach on a day out and a pearl necklace. There’s a story to tell about each item, children can see and feel the memory while you tell the tale and they can role play, pretend to be in the memory. Role play enables children to make sense of the stories you’re telling, and will help create more memories too.

Tales from the Round Table A fun show for children coming this Easter Chickenshed, Southgate, London N14 4PE

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Registered charity no:1012369

14 - 19 Apr For ages 3-7yrs

GIRL POWER

Power to Empower When our Editor caught up with two empowered women, IIlana and Lorna, who empower other women to just feel better about, well, just LIFE, it was only right to share this and spread the empowerment with the rest of the world.

The first time I met Illana was actually at one of her classes at DanceBox. I’d been messaging her over Instagram for ages saying “I want to come!” and she just kept replying with “COME!” So, one sunny Friday morning I woke up and just decided to take the day off from mum/work life and go dance my life away. Was it the best thing I’ve ever done? Hell to the YES!

How’s your 2020 been so far?

It’s actually been amazing. I left 2019 asking for 20-20 vision in 2020 and I have definitely had a lot more clarity already. Massive amount of fire in my belly and I am seriously ready to rule the world!

What does a typical day involve?

Depending on what day it is, I usually start my day teaching a class. It’s the best best BEST way to start the day, I’m left feeling so high and empowered and I feel like I can literally attack anything the day has in store for me – then I usually have a list of private classes or events or get buried in 30 | Cherubs Magazine

admin, figuring out ways in which I can spread the joy of DanceBox around the world. Literally!

What made you start Dancebox?

Dance is my biggest passion in the world. I danced professionally from the age of 18 – dancing for artists in music videos, tours and tv programmes such as X Factor and BGT. To get some extra cash while working as a dancer I started teaching women in West London.

These ladies were non-dancers and I saw how much they loved it – and I LOVED it right back. I started to see how free these women were becoming and it was incredible. At 27 I decided to open DanceBox in Essex, near where I

lived. It was so so important to me that I created a space of acceptance, an allinclusive, judgement-free zone where every day humans could come and literally unleash all of their life onto the dance floor. I wanted to bring the fun, amazing, therapeutic side of dance back into people’s lives. It’s a serious game changer.

How does it feel when you look around the room at everyone enjoying themselves, knowing you made this happen?

I have been known to walk around the room when everyone is dancing their hearts out and whooping from the bottom of their lungs and just cry. It is

GIRL POWER the most amazing feeling to see these incredible humans (most of whome have never ever danced before) just being so free and unapologetic.

People that have many daily struggles and battles, just lose themselves. Most women walk into their first class so shy and timid and by the end of the class they are jumping for joy and screaming so loud or crying from the release.

All of my clients are so incredibly welcoming that as soon as you enter you feel like you’re instantly a part of a sisterhood. I pinch myself daily.

What would your top tip be for someone who, deep down inside, wants to walk through your doors but is too self-conscious and feeling very low about themselves?

Lorna and I met randomly at my first ever PR event. I turned up on my own and felt totally lost standing in a room full of all these wonderful influencers. Then I spotted Reggie – Lorna’s little boy, staring at me with his gorgeous eyes and I was drawn in… I told her I was on my own and she uttered the simple words that eased me instantly: “Come and sit with us love!” After that, I was hooked on Mrs H and the friendship formed from there. I’m excited to attend my first PIZZUP in April and I would love nothing else, than for you all to experience it with me.

I have many tips but the main one to focus on is that YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Every single human being that enters my room soon realises that we are all in the same boat. Once that notion settles in, no matter where your confidence is placed inside, the walls fall down and we all swim together.

What’s next for Dancebox?

WORLD DOMINATION BABY! I am desperate to spread this joy. It is so important for people to remember who they are and the platform DanceBox provides does just that! I have literally watched people’s lives change right in front of my eyes. Their confidence, their outlook on life, their overall mental state – not to mention how incredibly uplifting it is for their souls. I want to take this world-wide!

What would you say to someone who’s thinking of starting their own little venture?

DO IT! You only live once and you should do whatever makes your heart skip and gets you excited! Be prepared to be patient, it can take time to grow.

Know that it will be hard work and a lot of hours need to go into making it work but if you’re passionate about what you’re doing then you will never feel like you’re truly working. I wake up every day so, so, so excited about what the day will hold and who I’ll get to meet and through doing something like this, I am always learning, too – which is a massive plus in life! @danceboxofficial

cherubsmagazine.com

How’s your 2020 been so far?

Do you know what? It’s actually been pretty damn good.

What does a typical day involve?

Shouting! Lol. The school run, oat lattes, freelancing whilst Reggie naps, washing... God, I sound a bit boring don’t I? But sometimes, the magic is in the mundane isn’t it? Since having my third baby, Reggie – I’ve allowed myself to indulge in ‘less is more’ I’m not a fan of watching TV in the day, don’t know why – it makes me feel funny and tired. When Reggie is sleeping I’ll be working or indulging in PIZZUP prep. Then, before you know it, school pick up has rolled around and the madness begins again!

You run a really successful blog and are known by so many, what made you want to divert and start something different like PIZZUP? It’s a funny one you know. I honestly didn’t have any huge intentions with either. My blog, The Mumblings started as a way to really download all the stuff in my head and share my experiences of life, motherhood and beyond. I talk a lot, and when I was commuting four days a week up to Soho for work, I had the luxury of travelling solo, and so used that time to just start writing down my thoughts on my phone. I used to email myself and without sounding like a right weirdo – I actually found them quite funny, so thought I’d create a blog. It was the thing at the time, and although I never wanted to use it (and still don’t) as a platform Cherubs Magazine | 31

GIRL POWER to come with and wouldn’t dare leave the house alone?

Just come. Just get a ticket and come! I promise you, that you will have a blast.

And I would say that without really knowing if they will actually walk away thinking “Yeah, it was OK.” I’m not that self-assured (despite appearances) but if there’s one thing I’m confident about, it’s that they WILL have a blast! I have women who now come up to me and ask me if anyone is on their own, anyone needs taking under their wing.

We can all bang out a hashtag for the likes, for the engagement but I stand by people – whether it’s booze, or a diet coke – you can drink with us. And I’m bloody proud of that.

What’s next for PIZZUP? to monetise or promote anything – I did want others to seek solace in my writing. To know that they weren’t alone in experiencing some of what I had. PIZZUP followed the blog. I felt the need to still be out, still be me – and really allow myself to have a decent night, with equally decent women.

Women who I was constantly trying to catch up with, in one way or another.

Those women also happened to be mums. Time was short, and especially time for us all to agree on a date. So I agreed on a date, I gave the night a name and then I put the word out on my WhatsApp to see who fancied a night. It was a cross pollination of excellent females and on a Tuesday last April, 30 of us gathered together and had a brilliant night out. I still can’t quite get my head around that there are now 500 of us. Bonkers!

Your hubby is a DJ, right? How does it feel doing something this massive together?

He sure is. By night anyway. He has a ‘normal’ day job, but still loves to indulge in his ultimate passion – music. I always say, that in no other capacity could we work together, but with music, festivals and nights out – it works. Don’t get me wrong, tension levels are HIGH the week before PIZZUP. A huge amount rests on my shoulders, and I am very particular in what I like to be played on the night (Jamie’s not the biggest garage fan… but I know what I want!) so there are rows, crossed words and heightened emotions, but on the night we always have each other’s back. There’s something pretty magical about that.

32 | Cherubs Magazine

Have you thought about doing a PIZZUP for boys?

I have yes. In fact I’ve thought of various PIZZUP adaptations, and while I’ll cringe typing this – it’s the age-old saying – if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

The concept of PIZZUP is simple, and I believe it works and is successful because of this. It delivers good food, a lot of booze (or not if that’s your preference) and incredible music. All in amongst amazing, inclusive and likeminded women. I think that term ‘likeminded women’ is used quite freely these days and actually, in some of my experiences, it really isn’t true. But I can hand on heart say, that with PIZZUP there is something magical in the air, the room – the night – there really is.

How does it feel when you look around the room at everyone enjoying themselves, knowing you made this happen?

Genuinely, the atmosphere takes my breath away each time. Even from the very first one, to the second, third, fourth and so on – I took a moment to look around the room at each woman that had turned up (most probably after a rushed exit, maybe an argument with her partner or a full-on day of feeling the strain of it all) but here they were. Some on their own, some in groups – and now, standing on a stage (bonkers) looking out at 500 women is something else. It feels mega, honestly mega.

What would your top tip be for someone who is desperate to come for a night out, doesn’t have anyone

In all honesty? I don’t know. Like I said before, in its current state, it works.

I don’t feel the need to change it up, or try to get something more out of it than I do already. The only thing I have always considered, is taking it up north.

I have women from all over travelling down, for a night off (there’s always plenty of notice with PIZZUPs and so time to schedule childcare if needed and also book up a local Premier Inn – I love that I always bump into women when I’m staying there) but equally, it would be nice to offer the night to the northern masses. It’s nerve-wracking though. Hosting such a huge event on my own feels less daunting close to home and so taking it away from what I know fills me with terror a little. But the thought is there, and it’s something I’d like to try and do this year.

What would you say to someone who’s thinking of starting their own little venture?

It’s funny when I’m asked that because I still don’t see myself as starting something – odd I know – but I guess I’d say “just do it!” My mum always says “JFDI darling” (just f**king do it) and I guess she’s right. What’s the worst that can happen? It doesn’t work. I put some of my own money into the first night, but it wasn’t a lot and it was worth it – so unless you’re investing huge amounts and taking massive risks that could be detrimental to yourself or your family, give it a shot. I had absolutely NO Idea PIZZUP would become what it has. @mrshhayward

BEAUTY

Blushing through spring With Elena @els_makeup_box

With summer feeling like it’s never going to arrive, blushers are the go to products that can turn a dull complexion into glowing healthy skin with one sweep of the brush. Skin tone plays a big role in choosing the perfect blusher. Texture and finish also play a role in choosing the correct blusher. Fear not, I have put together a simple guide for choosing the correct blusher for your skin tone.

Fair Skin Fair skin tones suit soft rose and peach hues.

Sheer plum for a more statement look also looks great, but I stress the word sheer! Anything too warm will make the skin look muddy.

Medium Skin If you fall into this category, many different colours will suit your complexion. Use a warm shade for the winter months and a soft coral colour during the summer months.

The velvet finish powders makes for flawless blending.

Don’t be fooled by this little tube of rosiness.

The pigment certainly packs a few punches.

Blushing Palette

Sheer Blush

£30.00

£18.00

Bella Pierre www.bellapierre.com

Iconic London www.iconiclondoninc.com

A beautifully curated collection of classic blush colours, this palette consists of shimmers, matte and satin finishes.

This product has just enough shimmer to give you a ‘just finished my yoga class’ look.

Cheek to Chic

Narsissist Palette II

Charlotte Tilbury www.charlottetilbury.com

Nars www.narscosmetics.co.uk

£30.00

Wanted

Cheek

£45.00

Dark Skin

Deep Skin

Look for a blush with a warm undertone hue to enhance the skin’s glow.

For deep and ebony skin tones, blushers with a hint of red look beautiful. Browns and bronzes also suit deep skin tones.

This matte finish product is blendable and buildable.

Excellent choice for dark Asian skin tone.

Colour intense and highly pigmented, this product will brighten and shape your face with one sweep.

Laura Mercier Blush Colour Infusion Blusher

Powder Blusher

£18.40

£24.00

Illamasqua www.illamasqua.com

John Lewis www.johnlewis.com A classic staple product for all. This products comes in five textures and nearly 30 different shades!

This reddish neutral brown will suit most dark skin tones. Wear it as a natural everyday blush or build it up for a more intense finish.

Powder Blush

Powder Blush

Mac www.maccosmetics.co.uk

Mac www.maccosmetics.co.uk

£19.50

cherubsmagazine.com

£19.50

Cherubs Magazine | 33

SUSTAINABILITY

How To Put a Smile on Your Child’s Face (without the eco guilt)

By Karen Maurice @N4Mummy

We all want to make our kids smile. And it doesn’t take much; a sweet at the school gate, a new toy or a packet of crisps. But it’s always bothered me that so many of the things my children love just aren’t that great for our world. Whether it’s the food wrapped in single-use plastic or a cheap toy that I know won’t last two seconds. And we’ve all been there when our children don’t get what they want and wished the ground would swallow us up whole. Which is why I’ve come up with a few simple eco swaps for the things my kids beg me for most. In the hope that those hideous tantrums can be avoided.

Find Second-hand plastic toys Wooden toys look good and are good for our environment. But give a child the choice and they’ll opt for the noise making, light flashing, brightly coloured plastic version. So, buy them second hand. Look for fun plastic toys in charity shops, on local facebook groups, at school fairs, or just ask a friend who has older children. It’ll be kinder on your wallet and the environment. This year for Christmas we bought a marble run for our son from the school fair for a mere £3 and it kept both kids entertained for hours. Most importantly, just avoid the toy aisle in the supermarket.

Invest in biodegradable glitter Glitter is usually made from plastic. Thousands of tiny bits that will not only stick in your carpet but will also be around for hundreds of years. So, invest in some biodegradable glitter. It is more expensive but, as you know, a little goes a long way. We got some this Christmas from the online eco-boutique Plastic Freedom and it’s been a real hit. My daughter finds any excuse to wear it, dressing up for the school disco or even to A&E when she broke her arm. It can be applied to the face with Aloe vera gel or used for crafts.

Revolutionize the after school snack Post nursery, my son greets me each day with “snack Mummy, snack.” And I either get a bright smile or epic tantrum depending on what I’ve brought. It’s easy for me to sit here and write that you should give your child a healthy snack that isn’t wrapped in single use plastic. But far harder to do this in reality. So, I’d encourage you to try giving them something like an apple or banana where nature has given its own packaging. But make sure you go to school with nothing else in your bag and a big dose of stubbornness on your part. After all, if they are truly hungry then they might just eat it.

Find alternative sweet treats Individually wrapped sweets aren’t great from a single use plastic perspective. But everyone loves a treat once in a while. So, find some simple biscuit or cake recipes to do that job. I’m not a baker, so I make easy things like shortbread, chocolate tiffin or crispy cakes. It’s a great activity to do with the kids. They love to get their hands messy and will always fight over who’s going to lick out the bowl.

Get back to nature And finally, I’ve noticed that my kids are happiest in the great outdoors. Some of our best family times together have been on walks in London. We love exploring Hampstead Heath, Alexandra Palace and many other big green spaces. For my children, the freedom to run wild, climb trees, make dens and get covered in mud just makes them smile.

And the fresh air wears them out, so they sleep better which in turn makes us smile too.

www.n4mummy.com 34 | Cherubs Magazine

SUSTAINABILITY

Karen with her husband James, children Daisy (5),Laurie (3) and baby Clara

cherubsmagazine.com

Cherubs Magazine | 35

EDUCATION ADVERTISING FEATURE

Exam preparation and revision techniques The dos and don’ts for your child’s success

The most widely shared revision tips and strategies have not changed much over the course of the 21st century. We as parents often find ourselves giving our children the same advice as we were given back in the day: trawl textbooks, highlight key information and test yourself. In recent years however, research evidence that distinguishes effective from ineffective revision strategies has proliferated and there is far more knowledge to be drawn upon. North London’s high-achieving, mixed ability schools group for ages two to 18, North Bridge House, takes a researchinformed approach to teaching and learning and has tried and tested some of the most successful revision techniques to help your child through the exam period.

“There is a lot to be said for what has become a particularly hot topic in education: metacognition,” says Brendan Pavey, headteacher of the school’s senior campuses in Hampstead and Islington.

“Encouraging children to reflect on how they learn helps them to identify what does and doesn’t work well for them, and aids their ability to choose the most effective thought processes for them as individual learners,” he continues. Several of North Bridge House Senior Schools’ teaching staff are part of a joint research project with UCL, attending the worldleading Institute of Education to contribute to the academic body of research around personalised learning and further develop their own strategies to support students as independent, metacognitive learners.

The key to any successful learning or revision technique is doing. Writing, designing, constructing, creating, doing something will prove far more fruitful than the age-old idea of skimming and highlighting texts. Passive consumption of information is not a valuable use of time and North Bridge House positively advises students to ditch the highlighters and avoid the trap of simply ‘re-reading’.

“Instead, we advise students preparing for their exams to focus on more challenging activities such as self-quizzing,” says

36 | Cherubs Magazine

Brendan.

“Furthermore, acknowledge that mass revision and cramming is less effective than a planned revision schedule, which not only breaks down your subjects into topics but outlines those activities – those ‘doing’ things,” he says.

There are also many excellent resources available to students (and parents.) on research-tested revision strategies. The Learning Scientists website is a good starting point and the Sandringham Memory Clock is a model worth exploring.

However, to help any child through their exam preparation, you first need to have the fundamentals in place.

A designated space is essential to effective revision and this space needs to be fit for purpose. The peace and quiet of the bedroom is often misused; comfort is essential to productivity, but the bedroom should remain the all-important sleeping and head space needed to rejuvenate. Help your child to create the optimum study area by establishing a structured zone, free from clutter and distractions with a desk, plenty of natural light and supplies to keep them energised: water, fruit, nuts and dark chocolate – all the best ‘brain foods’!

Sleep and exercise are equally as important to the revision timetable in order to help memory formation and diffuse the inevitable pressure that comes with exams respectively.

There is no denying that the exam season can be equally stressful for both parents and children. “Accept that it can be stressful,” says Brendan. “The emotions of our children are real, intense and we should respect them as we would for any adult. We should let our children know that it is okay to find the whole process stressful, normalise it, and start to teach our children that difficult situations are a part of life that can lead to very positive outcomes.”

While it is important to talk to your child in order to help structure and reassure them during their exam preparation, it can sometimes be difficult to get them to engage in conversation amid this stress – and increasingly so as they approach their turbulent teenage years. Planning a fun, spontaneous outing or activity can encourage them to open up, and will provide them with the light relief and down time that is very much necessary to their overall approach, performance and wellbeing. “Happy children learn best and family trips to see the latest superhero film or to their favourite restaurant can be fuel for the heart and soul – and brain,” Brendan reminds us.

At North Bridge House, staff and students have also worked with the University of York’s Psychology department to ascertain the impact of distraction on working memory, specifically, the effect of listening to music. Contrary to student protestations and in line with the Cognitive Load Theory, listening to music while revising is detrimental to effective learning.

During learning, information must be held in our working memory – the part of our mind that processes what we are currently doing – until it has been processed sufficiently to pass into our long-term memory. Our working memory can only deal with a limited amount of information at one time and so learning is hampered when the radio or ‘background TV’ is using some of this capacity and detracting from the task in hand. You may not be popular with your child but if they are serious about their exam grades, they will thank you in the long run for suggesting they take out those headphones and turn off Netflix.

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EDUCATION

Is your child suffering from exam stress?

How to spot the signs Revision guru and founder of the Tassomai learning program, Murray Morrison, has worked with thousands of students preparing for exams. Here he presents a few classic archetypes of exam-stressed children. Look out for the signs!

The Ostrich The ostrich is that student who, at the mere mention of their exams – or their revision – buries their head in the sand.

They could be quite obvious in this behaviour – “I don’t want to talk about it” – or it might be subtler, finding an excuse to get out of the room and avoid the topic.

Waste no time in confronting this behaviour and making a plan together, because the very act of avoidance means that the revision work will pile up and the stress will increase.

A tendency of higher-achievers – the Lion is that child who seems to have it all under control, but spends an inordinate amount of time lying around.

If they’re behaving as though the exams present no problems – to the point perhaps of arrogance or laziness – then it’s time for a conversation.

The Porcupine Similar to the ostrich in many respects, but rather than avoid the conversation, the porcupine might become rather spikey and start shaking their quills.

Are they hiding any anxiety and feeling like they can’t ask for help, or don’t know how to?

The reasons are quite similar, and the approach, likewise requires calm, careful conversation and a structured plan to work together to remove the fear of the exams.

The Meerkat You might think you’ve been fortunate if your child is the Meerkat: super busy, extremely diligent, revising late and requesting extra practice papers from the teacher. But this behaviour may indicate a lack of confidence and a tendency to worry.

Talk to your child to make sure they’re keeping things in perspective and limit the revision schedule in order to allow time for R&R.

www.tassomai.com 38 | Cherubs Magazine

The Lion

The Bower Bird A classic behaviour, not unlike the Meerkat. The Bower Bird (who spends large parts of its life decorating its nest) lends its name nicely to the type of student who keeps themself terribly busy focusing on superficial tasks like colouring in notes or organising files and revision plans.

If you are the parent of a Bower Bird, then talk to them, constructively, about their aims for each revision session, and check in with them regularly to see how much they have achieved.

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EDUCATION

Little Miss Squid talks about the dangers of being online!

Hi Everyo ne I am so excited that this is now my second article, I have so much to say. I wanted to write something that I feel is important. The internet, social media and mobile phones.

The internet is a great place to go - it's exciting and fun, with so much to offer. Whether it's learning something new or chatting with friends. I have learnt a lot from the net and also watched a lot of funny things on YouTube.

However, like Star Wars, there is a dark side, (my daddy told me to add that in, he loves Star Wars). There are some bad people that love to scare us kids and put in things like MoMo and other scary things. My advice is to sit near an adult to watch things so they can see what is happening.

Social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat allow you to be creative online, keep in touch with your friends, share photos and videos, as well as follow your favourite celebrities. Remember though, you have to be at least 13 years old to use most of these sites, so adults please make sure you follow the rules and guidelines to keep your children safe. Some things online can leave you upset or confused and if you ever feel this way when you're online, it's important to speak up and get support, find someone to talk to about what you have seen or what someone has shared with you that has left you feeling worried or unsure. There are lots of people you can talk to _ your parents, legal guardian, carer, other family members or your favourite teacher.

Some social media sites even allow you to report anything bad; whether it is something hurtful, someone has said something to you or about you or if you have seen upsetting photos that you don't want to see. Sometimes curiosity gets the better of you and it's embarrassing to ask, but be careful when you do search because you can end up searching unwanted things, make sure your parent has turned on the safe search on your computer. My parents do, they also block some of the game sites like RoBlox. Games that allow you to be friends and talk to others online are dangerous.

You don't know if the person you are talking to is who they say they are, which can lead you to a lot of trouble.

Never be 'friends' online with someone you don't know in the real world. My friends play Roblox, so if you do play these games and someone upset you or leaves you feeling confused to speak to an adult you can trust. If someone you have met online asks to meet up with you, send photos of yourself or asks you for personal information let a trusted adult know.

I hear a lot of parents saying that their kids don't talk to them and kids just go to their rooms. Trust me kids love to talk but parents and guardians need to ask the right questions otherwise their kids will be talking to someone else, a stranger, without telling the adults who look after them. They have opened up their bedroom to hundreds of strangers and not monitoring what they are doing is like allowing strangers into a child's bedroom. (I heard my parents talking about this).

I know you love your phone and your games but remember you control your phone, your phone shouldn't control you.

My parents say it's good to sit down as family and have a free hour where all phones are put away and you all play a game, talk, eat together and spend time as a family. This is also for the adults - even you are not allowed to be on the phone for an hour.

Now a message for parents and carers; if your child comes to you with something like this you can report it to the police using the ThinkUKnow website. It is run by CEOP, which is part of the police and whose job it is to stop strangers online trying to meet up with young people.

(Mummy helped me with this section).

Be kind to yourselves and others Love

CHILD AMBASSADOR FOR FBS

40 | Cherubs Magazine

EDUCATION ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Cherubs Magazine | 41

BOOK REVIEW

Spring reads Recommended by Pickled Pepper Books Bunnies on the Bus

by Philip Ardagh and Ben Mantle 2-7 years Bunnies and transport... what more can we say! The bunnies have taken over the bus and they’re on a wild ride across the streets! They whizz past the bus stop, swerve around corners and zoom over crossings on a non-stop roller coaster adventure! This is a hilarious romp of a book, with a fantastic read-aloud rhyming text and spectacular illustrations.

recycling waste into beautiful objects.

Marvel at the intelligence of chimpanzees with Jane Goodall. Learn why it’s important to shop fair trade and cruelty-free with Anita Roddick and The Body Shop. Resist devastating deforestation and plant seeds of change with Wangari Maathai. Written with hope and encouragement, this book shows that all actions, big and small, can be powerful in the fight against climate breakdown.

Where the World turns Wild

by Nicola Penfold 10-14 years

Don’t tickle the lion!

Animals, trees, flowers, our city forbids them all... Juniper Greene lives in a walled city from which nature has been banished, following the outbreak of a deadly man-made disease many years earlier.

Beautifully written throughout, Nicola Penfold has created a book to be read on multiple levels. It is not only an exciting read following siblings Juniper and Bear and their bid to flee the walled city where nature is banished, but also a passionate call to save our natural world. A must-read this year.

by Sam Taplin (author) and Ana Martin Larranaga (illustrator) 0-3 years Usborne have come up trumps again with a super cute new sound series. Don’t tickle the lion! You might make it roar… little ones and grown ups alike won’t be able to resist tickling the touchy-feely patches to hear each animal make a sound. This is a great new series for babies and toddlers, and already proving to be a bestseller in the shop.

Great Women who Saved the Planet

by Kate Pankhurst 4-99 years

If I had a Sleepy Sloth...

by Gaby Dawnay and Alex Barrow 2-7 years From the creators of If I had a Dinosaur, this is the perfect tale about taking the time to slow down. Featuring Alex Barrow’s signature vibrant illustrations and Gaby Dawnay’s playful rhymes, If I Had a Sleepy Sloth is a laugh- out-loud story where a little girl imagines having a sloth for a pet, providing a welcome alternative to the fast pace of modern life.

The Independent Bookshop Book of the Month for February comes from bestselling author and illustrator Kate Pankhurst. It’s a timely book about trail-blazing women who have been making decisions that have helped protect our natural world from way before it was on a political agenda, and now you can discover their untold stories. Tackle the plastic problem with Isatou Ceesay by

World Book Day 2020 Thursday 5 March

Don’t forget to redeem your World Book Day £1 tokens at Pickled Pepper Books (or any other good bookshop). You can swap your token for a special World Book Day book or get £1 off any book priced over £2.99.

www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk | 10 Middle Lane, Crouch End, London N8 8PL | 020 3632 0823 42 | Cherubs Magazine

Sport4Kids

is revolutionizing the way toddlers and children are introduced to sport throughout the UK. We run Sports sessions throughout the boroughs of Enfield and Barnet in Rugby and Football for Children aged 18 months to 11.

We also partner with numerous nurseries and schools in the area delivering Tennis, Yoga, Gymnastics, Dance, Football and Rugby as well as our ActivKids programme.

We would love to meet you little one at one of our weekend or weekday development Centers currently running out of St Ignatius College, Southgate School, Southbury and Bush HIll Park Primary School.

We are also still looking to partner with further schools and nurseries in the area.

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Find us on Facebook: sports4kids Cockfosters & Southgate & Sport4Kids Enfield To book a free taster at any of our venues you can do so at www.sport4kids.biz

REVIEW

Daddy & Dad’s Toy Fair Top Picks Once a year in chilly January, the nation’s leading family influencers, journalists and toy retailers make an annual pilgrimage to their primary-coloured mecca – the UK Toy Fair in London’s Olympia Grand exhibition centre.

It’s an absolutely huge event with exhibits from every reputable global toy brand and distributer. The toy brands demonstrate their latest, often top secret innovations, toys and collectables way ahead of their release into the UK’s toy shops and homes, and we lucky bloggers and journos are treated to an exclusive, hands-on experience with them.

This year was my inaugural Toy Fair. As a big kid myself, I revelled in the opportunity to immerse myself in the nostalgia of it all. Nostalgia? Yes, believe it or not (and this should make our 30-plus readers smile), with only a few notable exceptions, 2020 will be the year of 80s throwbacks and vintage rereleases of our favourite toys and characters. With that in mind, here’s my 2020 top picks!

Nostalgia Pound Puppies Has a cardboard box ever been looked after like a Pound Puppys’ kennel? I doubt it! Available in two sizes, 2020 sees the re-issue of 1985’s Tonka Pound Puppies, complete with their original 80s kennel packaging. Cute or what?

Brand: Toy Fun UK Available: This spring RRP: £19.99 (Pound Puppies Classic, pictured)

My Little Pony Talk about a flash from the past – I vividly remember tangling Mum’s best hairbrush in my sister’s My Little Pony’s tail and having to cut it out with nail clippers! Sorry Mum! Back in its original box where it rightfully belongs along with its brush, ribbon and collectable poster, this year’s My Little Pony is a nostalgic delight.

Brand: Toy Fun UK Available: This spring RRP: £9.99 (35th Anniversary Classic Collection, pictured) 44 | Cherubs Magazine

Jamie of Daddy & Dad at the UK Toy Fair

REVIEW

Goal!

My heroes

Subbuteo

Sonic The Hedgehog One for the 90s SEGA kids among us, Sonic’s back again with a marvellous new range of electronic and plush toys from Zappies.

My fave is the Sonic radio-controlled car – complete with electronic front and rear lights and a turbo function. Cool, eh?

Brand: Zappies Available: Now Guide price: £26.99

Power up Power Pux collectables Thinking back to the 80s again, do you remember those little rubber discs that popped up into the air? Well, they’ve been brought into the 21st Century thanks to Power Pux from Vivid Toys. There are 50 Power Pux to collect, along with ‘launcher’ sets. In essence, you push your little Power Pux down with your hand or use one of the special launchers to launch it across the table where it will pop admirably up into the air. Excellent fun!

Subbuteo’s always been a firm favourite in the Daddy & Dad household – the fantastic detail in the little players and the tiny scale of the accessories is very impressive. Also, get this... Subbuteo first appeared in British homes in 1946! Talk about nostalgia. Ahead of Euro 2020, University Games has teamed up (excuse the pun) with Hasbro to launch a feel-good advertising campaign and a new line of Subbuteo games and accessories.

The new sets, with greatly improved detail including players with different colour football boots and hairstyles, will be available in stores from April.

Brand: University Games Available: April Price: TBC

Brand: Vivid Toy Group Available: Now Price: From £2.99

Batman and Robin I’ve always preferred the sidekick to the hero. Penfold, Scrappy Do, Gromit, they’re all excellent. But my all-time favourite sidekick is Robin. Stylish, loyal and a tiny bit camp, Robin is my hero. Lyall and Rich (my boys) are 100% convinced Robin is Batman’s house-husband, by the way.

Anyway, these little four-inch action figures from Spin Master each arrive with three mystery accessories and a collectable card.

Brand: Spin Master Available: Now RRP: £7.99

Top pick... great scott!

Playmobil Back to the FutureTM I’m flying the flag for Playmobil this year. Their toys are robust, waterproof, gender-neutral and (most importantly) competitively priced compared with other ‘self-assembly’ toy brands. Which brings me on to my absolute top favourite toy for 2020 – Playmobil Back to the Future.

With 2020 marking the 35th anniversary of the original cult film, Playmobil’s 70317 Back to the Future DeLorean is a beautifully detailed, interactive scale model of the film’s time machine. The DeLorean comes with retractable wheels (for flying purposes), an illuminated ‘flux capacitor’ and insertable plutonium, plus 17-year-old Marty McFly, the effervescent ‘Doc’ Brown and even Einstein the dog!

Brand: Playmobil Available: May Price: £49.99

Find Daddy & Dad on Instagram @daddyanddad and www.daddyanddad.co.uk cherubsmagazine.com

Cherubs Magazine | 45

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PARENT LIFE

I love you but you make me want to scream!

By Sunayana Clark

#parentlife #empower #keepcalm We love and adore our kids. But sometimes, they frustrate us with their obstinacy or refusal to even try our suggestions that it makes us feel like screaming! This obstinacy is present in your two-year-old, four-yearold and 16-year-old! They want to do things their way and no amount of reasoning works.

can decide to help them choose their course of action. This empowers your children and helps you to model problem solving to your children. However this path can still leave you feeling a mixed bag of emotions: anger, frustration or worry which can spill out into other areas of your life. To stop this, you must prioritise looking after yourself.

around the park – the exercise will help you to calm down and the laughing will remind you how much you love them. It negates the frustration. With an older child who can be left alone, distract yourself by talking to a friend, watching a funny video or popping out. This gives you both breathing and thinking space.

Why? Often it’s because they want independence and to feel empowered to choose what they want to choose. But we, as parents, have a different perspective because of life experience. We want to help them avoid the pitfalls that we experienced. We want to make their lives easier, smoother and less painful. However, we are experiential creatures, which means we grow through experience. When they experience frustration and pain, they learn how to deal with problems, come up with good solutions and become resilient.

So state your position and then stop engaging in conversations with your child or your spouse about this situation. Change your response to non-committal answers.

For example: if your partner says “they should be trying more” you can respond with a “yes, I agree” or a “I will think about that”.

When we engage in the same conversations, we activate those same emotions of anger, frustration again. By choosing not to respond, we allow those emotions to subside.

Lastly, do something nice for yourself – treat yourself to a delicious hot drink, cook your favourite meal or have a candle lit bubble bath and a glass of Prosecco. Parenting is hard work! You deserve the rewards that you can give yourself.

You have a choice: keep insisting that they do things the way you want them to (and therefore keep repeating the cycle of arguments, frustration and anger) or you

Arguments often take place in the house, so change your environment. If you have a younger child, go to the park with them (even though you don’t want to). Run around with them, throw a ball, chase them

As you practice empowering your children, keeping calm and rewarding yourself, you will notice that you won’t want to scream any more and you will remember that you are here to guide your children rather than force them to do things your way.

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Cherubs Magazine | 47

PET LIFE

share their springtime favourites for dog loving families

ASK US! Isobel & Victoria are on hand to answer you dog and baby questions so fire away…

What’s hot for your pooch right now Fetch & Fellow X Kana London Dog Bowl – starting around £32 www.fetchandfollow.com Our favourite thing right now are these handmoulded (in the UK) ceramic bowls by Fetch & Fellow not only is it strong and designed to be heavy weight so that your dog doesn’t slide the bowl about, they also look super stylish in any home.

What’s hot for mamas All Dogs Matter Jumpers – starting at £10 www.alldogsmatter.co.uk The best thing in our wardrobes are cosy jumpers that you can throw on with jeans or leggings for daily dog walks and, with the weather slowly changing and not needing that extra coat layer, we need lots of this wardrobe staple right now. What could be more perfect than these cool slogan jumpers.

And one for the kids...

Which sling do you use with your babies when out and about dog walking?

We both use Baby Bjorns, having tested out loads of different ones before investing (through sling libraries, borrowing from friends and so on), as they are a little pricey, but funnily enough the Baby Bjorns felt the most comfortable for us both. Great for when the babies are a little older and can face outwards and enjoy the walks with you.

Emma, mum to be from Dulwich

Quick top tip for dog mamas

Living Nature French Bulldog Puppy Plush Soft Toy – £13 www.johnlewis.com These life-like plush toys come in a range of breeds and are great for your kids so that they can take a version of your dog to bed.

Get outta town!

One of our favourite out of London day trips for the whole family at the moment is visiting Windsor Great Park.

About an hour drive from North and South London, bit closer from West (slightly too far from East). We parked in the Virginia Water car park which has good toilet facilities, lovely little kiosks where you can grab a coffee/snack and lovely walks around the park that both kids and dogs enjoy. Check out their website for more information. www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk 48 | Cherubs Magazine

Paperchase is dog friendly and perfect for nipping in for those last minute birthday cards.

Find your nearest store at www.paperchase.com

@poochesandprams www.poochesandprams.co.uk

If you have a question please email us at hello@poochesandprams.co.uk

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REAL LIFE

Battling through postnatal depression with creativity Depression and I go hand in hand and have done since I was 11 or 12. Looking back, it was pretty mild, didn’t last long, and was generally part of my personality. My sister tells me I was always very extreme as a child, either very very happy or very very sad. I’m still like that now.

When I fell pregnant the first time, back in 2013, I had a tough first few months, as I think we all do, but then once I hit 20 weeks I felt depression like nothing I’ve experienced before. It was like a black cloud sat on my shoulders, and it just didn’t go away. Weeks and weeks it hovered there until I went to my GP, and together we decided on anti-depressants. They did help, but I still struggled, so I received talking therapy and antenatal counselling too. Once my son was born the depression, weirdly, went away and I had a brilliant first year with him. When we decided to try for another baby, depression was a distant

50 | Cherubs Magazine

memory, and one that only affected me during pregnancy so what were we waiting for? I fell pregnant when Archie was 13 months old, and it was not plain sailing.

The depression kicked in pretty quickly and didn’t stop. After months of feeling lower than I’d ever felt and feeling guilty for being too tired and sick to play with Archie a lot, I had a very quick and pretty ideal birth – no stitches and only gas and air!

I felt so confident and brilliant that day.

Then we got home and everything just got worse and worse.

I couldn’t smile, I could barely lift myself out of bed, the smallest tasks were so overwhelming, so our tiny home was constantly a mess, and I was broken. I had never felt anything like it and thinking back on it is still very hard, even four years on.

My GP was amazing, and still hasn’t written me a repeat prescription, meaning I have

to go and see her every two months to get my medication so she can check I’m doing ok. She and others referred me on to social services, the crisis team, Home-Start, PIPs, IAPT – these are all amazing services that helped me. Although I think my husband got a shock when the crisis team showed up on our doorstep the day the GP called them! He hadn’t realised how bad things had got for me until then, so even though it was a really scary time, it needed to happen.

I ended up getting lots of support – we have an amazing community of people who live nearby who cooked meals for us and came round to keep me company. We got a free nursery place for Archie, which meant he went to a local nursery for 15 hours a week, I had a volunteer from Home-Start come every week for four hours to help me with things like food shopping or just playing with the boys. Sometimes she just sent me to bed and I could catch up on sleep – Teddy didn’t sleep through the night until he was nearly three years old. I had CBT, and therapy with the Parent and Infant Psychology Service, which is full of amazing professional counsellors who specialise in parent-baby bonding and development,

REAL LIFE and my health visitor came to do baby massage at my home, just for me and Teddy, while Archie was at nursery.

I still felt absolutely rubbish, but I had a lot of help and knew that it was just a case of managing my depression and finding ways to live with it. That’s when I discovered how much being creative helped. I’ve always been creative, I grew up in a house full of professional musicians, was a professional singer for a few years during and after University, did art at A level and had been sewing and knitting since I was wee. So I knew I enjoyed making things but hadn’t had the opportunity to get my sewing machine out since having two kids under two!

On days when Archie was at nursery, I used to find myself wandering slowly around little boutique shops where I live for hours with the buggy, just for something to do. I’d walk around in some kind of depression and sleep-deprived stupor, not taking anything in but enjoying the calm and beautiful surroundings. One day I spotted a (rather ugly) zip pouch that looked just about big enough for nappies and wipes, and suddenly I just knew I needed it. If you have little ones you will know how messy the changing bag can get. Especially if you have older ones who are eating food – that’s when you find half a rice cake stuck to the wipes right at the bottom of the bag, right? I found it hard enough to get out of the house with two little ones, but with postnatal depression and chronic sleep deprivation added into the mix, it was a recipe for major anxiety, lots of shouting and lots of tears every time we left the house. Have you ever been in a situation where you’re out and the baby does such a spectacular poo that it goes up to its back, and down its legs? And somehow poo gets on their socks and you’ve no idea what to do?

Imagine that, but with no wipes in the bag – are you with me? Panic and mum-failure central! Enough to reduce anyone to tears.

So, I bought the ugly pouch and put wipes, two nappies and a couple of nappy bags in there. It was the one thing I had to focus on as I was leaving the house – do I have the nappy pouch? It could go in my changing bag or at the bottom of the buggy, or my

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backpack if I was carrying one of the boys in a sling. It also meant I could grab it quickly and know I had everything on-hand for a nappy change straight away.

It sounds like a little thing but it made me feel like I had succeeded at something – like I was in control of just one tiny thing, and like I had things together. I quickly went and bought another one for spare clothes, and then one day a friend told me she could teach me to make my own zip pouches. It was like a lightbulb went on. I was so excited. I had a huge fabric stash (much to my husband’s frustration) and had beautiful pieces of fabric that I just had because I found them beautiful, but had no idea what to make with them. So, I used my favourites to make some of my first zip pouches.

“I’d walk around in some kind of depression and sleepdeprived stupor” I started making them for friends and made four for a friend who was having her second baby. She’s now got three kids and I know she still uses all four pouches every single day. It was an escape for me from parenting, which made me feel crazily guilty for needing an escape, and even more guilty for actually taking it, but was necessary. I could spend naptimes cutting and sewing the most gorgeous fabric, for people I loved, that I knew they’d find useful and make them smile every day.

I was starting to get a bit of myself back too, in discovering I could do something practical to help myself, and others. Once I had honed my skills I could get a pouch cut and sewn in 30 minutes. It felt like an achievement to be able to start and finish a task in one sitting, and now I’ve got it down to 20 minutes and I feel like a pouch sewing ninja!

About half of my pouches are sewn from gorgeous cotton fabrics, and the other half are printed with flock vinyl, which is kind of furry and very pleasing to feel. I handletter phrases, words and names, which was another thing that helped me – I was constantly doodling and drawing, so why not learn calligraphy and hand-lettering and do something useful with it? I had a friend who I’d met on a breastfeeding peer supporter training course, and once you’ve sat in a room with someone and talked about boobs, nipples, good latches, bad latches, bleeding nipples and practised listening exercises with them for months, you can’t help but stay pretty close friends. She had her own business making personalised clothes and aprons and had all the kit in her studio at home.

I asked if I could come and try out some of the stuff to make my own pouches with my hand-lettered designs, and just fell in love with the whole process. I could make any design, cut it out of any colour flock vinyl I wanted, and heat press it onto a pouch. It was like magic. I spent so many happy times there with her, she helped me gain confidence with the machinery and programmes she used, and she was like my little cheerleader right at the start of Grizzli Bear.

I don’t remember the first year of Teddy’s life, it’s very hazy, very dark and very difficult for me to focus in on. I think my brain just deleted most of it because I was having such an awful time. But I remember starting Grizzli Bear and beginning that journey, and that has helped me focus more on time with my boys. Coming home from an afternoon creating cool products made smiling and engaging with my boys so much easier and I found so much more joy in being with them.

It took three and a half years for my postnatal depression to fully clear. Grizzli Bear has been running for two years, and I hope it’ll help plenty more mums and dads feel that they have everything they need to get out of the house with their kids and face anything they can throw at them, even if that is scrambled egg and poo! www.grizzlibear.com

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LEARN TO PLAY GOLF at Bush Hill Park Golf Club Starting 1st April 2020 Women's affiliate membership £375 including 12 group lessons and £50 on bar card WHY GOLF? Make new friends :: Low impact exercise :: Improves mental well-being Reduces stress and anxiety Physical fitness and weight loss :: Helps to maintain mental alertness Challenges your ability to stay calm and focused In one round of golf you'll cover 10,000 steps and burn up to 1,000 calories!

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Sessions for children aged 18 months - 7 years | Teams for U7 to U10 | info@efacademy.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

Top things to do this spring with our favourites!

We’ve rounded up our most loved, local #instaparents to bring you the best things to do in your area.

HARINGEY

KAREN @n4mummy Big Fish Little Fish Space-themed family rave The Goodness Brewing Company 5a Clarendon Yard, Coburg Rd, London 25 Apr 13:30-16:00 Award-winning original family rave Big Fish Little Fish at Wood Green for the first time.

A space themed event for families with 0-8 yr olds. Party on the dance floor filled with bubbles, confetti, balloons and foam, get crafty at the arts table and have your face painted intergalactic style. There is a licensed bar and pizzas.

Adults: £10 Kids: £7 Infants (not walking): free.

Easter Adventure Quest Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, Hampstead, NW3 7JR 10-13 Apr 10:00-16:00 Join the hunt for dragon eggs on a legendary quest this Easter. Crack the clues as you and your family follow the trail through the grounds. Prize a certificate and delicious treats from Hotel Chocolat!

Explore Queens Woods

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Explore Queens Woods Queen’s Wood Cafe, 42 Muswell Hill Road, N10 3JP Nov-Apr: Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00; SatSun 9:00-17:00 May-Oct: Mon-Fri 9:00-17:00 Sat-Sun 9:00-18:00 Go on a bear hunt, make a den or climb a tree at Queen’s Woods. And when you’re finished make sure you pop into Queen’s Woods Cafe and sample their organic and veggie dishes.

YMCA North London, Fun Run Festival Priory Park, 112 Middle Ln, London N8 8LJ 3 Apr YMCA North London’s 30th Anniversary Fun Run & Festival A wonderful day comprising 10 fun running events, with a festival of food, music and fun for all.

Cost of festival: free (there is a cost to enter the running events).

Tales From The Round Table Rayne Theatre, Chickenshed, 290 Chase Side, London N14 4PE 14-19 Apr Tue-Fri 11:30 & 13:00; Sat-Sun 10:00, 11:30 & 13:00 (run time 60 min) Chickenshed produces amazing interactive theatre for little ones and this Easter they are taking us back to the medieval times. Come and meet Guinevere, Merlin, King Arthur, Sir Lancelot, Morgan Le Fay, the Lady in the Lake and the legendary sword Excalibur – as you’ve never seen them before.

Age 3-7 years years Tickets: £7 Free for babies under six months.

Mini Flippers at Flip Out (Brent Cross) Unit 7, Staples Corner Retail Park, Geron Way, London NW2 6LW Mon 10:00-16:00 Tue-Fri, 9:00-16:00 The perfect place for under-fives to get rid of some excess energy. They can bounce on the trampolines, jump in the foam pit or do some moves on the tumble track and hopefully it will wear them out!

From £7.95 (one adult flips for free).

ENFIELD

VICKI @thatenfieldmum Baby Broadway Family Concert Chickenshed, 290 Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 4PE 2 Apr 10:00-10:45 and 11:15-12:00 It’s never too early to be introduced to the razzle dazzle world of show tunes. Take your baby with you to this spectacular based on musicals! £6 entry. Babies under six months go free.

Goldilocks starring The Three Bears Dugdale Theatre, 39 London Road, Enfield EN2 6DS 2-19 Apr 11:00 or 13:30 The annual Easter pantomime is upon us!

Oh yes it is! Goldilocks and the Three Bears promise to entertain. Will the three bears ever find out who has eaten their porridge?

Adults £15.50, young people £14, senior citizens £14, family ticket £54 (based on two adults and two young persons).

Easter Fun Capel Manor Farm, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, EN1 4RQ 10-11 Apr 10:00-17:00 Capel Manor Farm hosts their annual family fun days, including an Easter egg hunt, kids activities, food stands, animals and lots of fun-filled entertainment to keep the whole family busy.

Adults £6, concessions £5 (including senior citizens, disabled, students, benefit card holders), children £3 (under-threes go free) family ticket £15 (two adults and up to three children).

Continued overleaf...

@flipoutbrentcross brentcross@flipout.co.uk | flipout.co.uk/brent-cross Staples Corner Retail Park, Geron Way, NW2 6LW | 020 8050 2391

WHAT’S ON ...continued from previous page

90’s Singalong The King’s Head, 9 Market Place, Enfield, EN2 6LL 25 Apr 20:00 Dig out your combat trousers and dust off those Reebok Classics because the 90s are back! Mumsing are bringing back the hits of the 90s and invite you to join them in this journey back in time. £11.37 per person.

A Star is Born Outdoor Cinema Experience Enfield Town Football Club, Queen Elizabeth II Stadium, Donkey Lane, Enfield, EN1 3PL 17 May 19:30-23:30 Grab a blanket, chair and picnic to enjoy the musical spectacle under the stars. Food, a bar and music will also be available before the film starts. Grab your tickets now. You’d be gaga not to. £13.77 for a standard ticket or £20.38 with a luxury deck chair in a prime position.

2020 ECA Canoe Slalom Euro Championships By Jaffa Lee Valley White Water Centre, Station Rd, Waltham Cross EN9 1AB 15-17 May 8:00-20:00 This is your chance to see Team GB in action before the Olympics. If watersports float your boat, or you would just fancy seeing some amazing athletes in action, take the plunge and head down. £36 for adult three-day admission and £10 for children’s three-day admission. Daily prices vary.

Enfield Pageant Of Motoring St. George’s playing fields, Great Cambridge Road, EN1 3PL 23 May - 25 May 08:00-18:00 This event promises to be a day filled with family fun with an array of attractions including motorcycle displays, fairground rides, food stands and hundreds of classic cars. £10 admission. Accompanied children 12 and under are free.

Princess Party for The Nightingale Cancer Support Centre St. Peter’s Church Hall, Langham Gardens N21 1DN 30 May 10:00, 13:00 or 16:00 Children will be treated like royalty as Princesses await the little ones with a mixture of singing, dancing, crafts, photo opportunities and cupcake decorating.

Children £15 (including party food buffet, suitable for children aged 2-7) Adults £3 (including tea and biscuits).

The Secret Garden Pop-up Cafe Salisbury House, Bush Hill Park, N9 9LA Various dates See www.thesecretgardenpopup.com

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Meet friends over coffee and cake while your children enjoy playing in the lovely garden or taking part in one of their engaging workshops. They have an exciting programme of events coming up featuring Busybricks, The Junk Club, and Art and Design Room, as well as Easter-themed fun for the family in the garden and cafe. Free entry but advanced booking for children’s sessions advised. See the website for full details and upcoming café dates.

BARNET

STEPHANIE @barnet_mum

Cbeebies – Rainbow Adventure Brent Cross Shopping Centre, London 24 Apr-31 May Step inside your favourite children’s TV channel on a journey to find the missing colours of the rainbow. It’s an indoor play adventure for young children, their family and carers. Sing, dance and discover in a magical CBeebies garden with giant hedges and clouds, oversized colourful fruits, flowers that change colour, rocks that make sounds and walls that light up!

For children up to six years old. £12.50 for children up to six years old. under 18 months free.

Red Riding Hood & The Missing Cape Big Time Productions at Mill Hill library London 3-6 Apr Join Red Riding Hood on her way to Grandma’s house. Help her defeat the wolf, save Granny and find her missing cape with the assistance of the Huntsman and you, the audience.

Booking info: www.nw7creatives.com Child £9, adult £3.

Room on the Broom Arts Depot, North Finchley 14-19 Apr Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.The witch and her cat are travelling on their broomstick when they pick up some hitch-hikers – a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic frog. But

this broomstick is not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two... just as the hungry dragon appears!

From £9 per person.

Eggtastic Egg Hunt and Egg Decorating Stephens House and Gardens, Finchley London 5 Apr An eggtastic drop-in session and eggcellent Egg Hunt is on offer, so let your little explorers follow the clues on a quest for eggs and then they can have lots of fun decorating their own. £4 per child, others from £9 per person.

Animal Easter Trail Raf Museum, Mill Hill London 4-19 Apr The Easter Bunny has lots of his animal friends in the museum, come and find them and find out why they might be hiding underneath our aircraft. Find all the animals and receive a delicious Cadbury easter egg when you hand in your trail.

For all ages, £3 per child.

Kids do Mother’s Day Flower Bank, Barnet EN5 21 Mar 14:30-16:30 Children will create a beautiful flower bouquet to take home to their mums for Mother’s Day Book via www.theflowerbank.org.uk £10 per child.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea Arts Depot, North Finchley, London 23-24 May Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos. A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised.

Tickets from £9.

Belmont Farm Mill Hill, London 23-24 May Open all year round Spring is finally here, and the animals are out taking it all in. Hand feed the animals or why not take a tractor ride?

Prices range from free to £7 per person.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

WHAT’S ON HACKNEY, CAMDEN & CENTRAL LONDON

MAX @struggleofthejuggle Pop Up Performance V&A Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL Saturdays from 29 Feb-28 Mar 11:00-15:30 On 29 February, meet Mr Polito and his animals. From 7-28 March, tell tales with Talawa Theatre Company. An immersive experience designed to involve children in an array of movement, song and dance.

Shows last for 30 minutes. Most events are for all ages but please see V&A website for more details.

Free.

The Place 17 Duke’s Road, London, WC1H 9PY Tuesday 14th - Friday 17th April 10:00-16:00 This Easter holiday, The Place are hosting intensive dance schools for all ages between 11-18. Starting from 10am until 4pm in the afternoon, like minded children will be taught how to use their bodies to express feeling, thought and emotion, in a safe and professional environment. Mostly used as a dance hub by local schools around the area, it is still a hidden gem in the middle of the city. Dance classes are also available for adults.

Prices vary: visit www.theplace.org.uk Affordable Art Fair Lower Fairground Site, East Heath Road, Hampstead, London, NW3 1TH 30 Apr - 3 May 9:00-18:00 Immerse yourself and get lost in the art at the Affordable Art Fair. Whether a firsttime buyer, a connoisseur collector or just someone wanting to have a browse, take the kids, enjoy a glass of bubbles and soak up the culture. With an ever-eclectic mix of national and international galleries, all presenting work priced between £100 and £6,000, see thousands of stunning pieces, explore your own unique taste and discover the joy of collecting art.

Prices: £9-£27.

Camley Street Gardens 12 Camley Street, London, N1C 4PW Weekdays 9:00-18:00 Amid the hustle and bustle of the trains, cars and people that make their way through Kings Cross every day, is a two-acre haven of green, water and life.

Camley Street Gardens includes habitats like wetlands, woodland and meadow. It’s a great day out with the kids, exploring what feels like the middle of nowhere, and yet just on the other side is Granary Square,

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filled with all types of restaurants to grab a bite to eat afterwards.

Free.

Fantastic Beasts™: The Wonder of Nature Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL 22 May - 3 Jan Embark on a journey where not all is as it seems, where magical beasts and fantastic animals share abilities and behaviours that allow them to dazzle, attract and escape.

Celebrate real-world explorers who, like the character Newt Scamander™, help us to understand our planet’s extraordinary creatures so we can protect them for the future.

Child £10.95, adult £18.

HERTFORDSHIRE

AIMEE HART @hart_at_home

Easter Eggstravaganza Willows Activity Farm, Coursers Road, London Colney 4-19 Apr Inclusive activities all day Chock-a-block with family fun at Willows Activity Farm during Easter Eggstravaganza.

They have a packed programme with our egg hunt, Easter arts and crafts, brand new Peter Rabbit and Friends shows, Tristan the Runaway Tractor and lots more. Definitely one not to miss!

Adults from £17, children from £16 (undertwos free). Discounted entry online.

Easter Lambing Live Foxholes Farm Shop, London Road, Hertford 4-19 Apr 11:00 The ewes and new-born lambs can be viewed by the public from 11am to 3pm every day throughout the Easter school holidays, enabling you to get up close and meet the new-borns, help bottle feed and interact with our amazing farm staff.

Although they cannot guarantee births when you view (as nature takes it course) you can certainly learn and interact throughout the experience from behind the scenes. £9.99 (this including Farm Park entry).

Lee Valley Easter Country Fair Lee Valley Showground, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire 12-13 Apr 10:00-17:00 Head out and hit your local green spaces this Easter for some family fun and fresh air at this traditional Country Fair. Now in its seventh year, there’s something for everyone to enjoy with allday entertainment. You can also browse sample and buy from their range of arts, crafts food drink and gifts marquees as well as outside trade stands. on the Monday at this event, we are proud to host The Fun Family Dog Show (Dog Show Schedule) so bring along a canine friend and have a go (all proceeds from entries go to Marie Curie care).

Adult £7.50, child £4.

Mother’s Day Jazz Lunch Brocket Hall, Welwyn, Hertfordshire 22 Mar 12:00-15:00 Join the team at The Melbourne Club to enjoy a delicious traditional three-course Sunday Lunch with the fabulous vintage jazz sounds of Miss Jones. The Oak Room is located on the Brocket Hall Estate and enjoys stunning views over 543 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside. A really special treat for Mums.

Adult £40, child £20.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Ashridge Estate, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Near Berkhamsted 10-13 Apr 10:00-16:00 You can get some fresh air with the kids, stretch your legs and learn about some amazing nature along our Easter trail.

Come along to the visitor centre with your family to solve the clues, with a chocolate prize at the end for the kids. Price: £5.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt

Cherubs Magazine

TAKE 5 AND LISTEN

EditorsTop Podcasts To listen to this spring!

I’ve very recently found a place in my heart for podcasts and wanted to share my favs with you, some will inspire, some will give you get up and go. There’s even a cheeky one in there that is just a good old laugh!

05:00

Monday Mumday Two mothers launch a raw and real parenting podcast series Monday Mumday to talk freely and honestly about the pains of parenthood. In this series they will be having candid chats with parents, celebrities, influencers and experts to shine a light on areas of parenting that are overlooked, unspoken or not Instagram-worthy.

Parenthood is hard and Monday Mumday and its guests are not afraid to talk about it. @mondaymumday Co-host Emma Soraya Beard Co-host Joey Kendal Brown Headline sponsor @nanobebe_uk

Happy Place Fearne Cotton talks to incredible people about life, love, loss, and everything in-between as she reveals what happiness means to them. @happyplaceofficial Host: Fearne Cotton

and finally

No Bull Business Women No Bull Business School founder Sarah Akwisombe meets the best businesswomen in the game.

From founders to artists to C-level executives, each woman shares her own perspective on what it takes to be successful in business. @nobullschool Host Sarah Akwisombe www.nobullbusinessschool.com

The goop Podcast Gwyneth Paltrow and goop’s Chief Content Officer Elise Loehnen chat with leading thinkers, culture changers, and industry disruptors—from doctors to creatives, CEOs to spiritual healers – about shifting old paradigms and starting new conversations. @goop Hosts: Gwyneth Paltrow & Elise Loehnen

My Dad Wrote A Porno

ED

CENSOR

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This is absolutely hilarious, a smash hit and has had over 200 million downloads. Trust me, if you fancy a laugh and there are no kids in the car... download it. Imagine if your dad wrote a dirty book. Most people would try to ignore it – but not Jamie Morton. Instead, he decided to read it to the world in this groundbreaking comedy podcast. With the help of his best mates, James Cooper and Alice Levine, Jamie reads a chapter a week and discovers more about his father than he ever bargained for. @mydadwrotea Hosts: Jamie Morton, James Cooper & Alice Levine

CONF IDENCE is remortgaging with ease

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Talk to Filiz Hassan or Kiran Kaur at Noel Park Wood Green, 62 High Road, London, N22 6DH.

Make money work for you

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Subject to application, financial circumstances and borrowing history. T&Cs apply. * Mortgage experts are available 24/7, except bank holidays. Our video call facility is open on bank holidays.

Barclays Bank UK PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number: 759676). Registered in England. Registered no. 9740322. Registered office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP. Barclays Bank UK PLC adheres to the Standards of Lending Practice which is monitored and enforced by The Lending Standards Board. Further details can be found at www.lendingstandardsboard.org.uk Item Ref. 9916315_UK. March 2020.

THE COLLABORATION

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