Yummy Mummy @mummymagazine
magazine yummymummymagazine.co.uk
AUG/SEPT 2017 issue 17
The luxury parenting publication for discerning mothers living in London
Yummy Mummy magazine
FROM THE
A
EDITOR
new herd of animals have arrived at ZSL London Zoo this summer, as the Zoo becomes home to the most colossal creatures ever to walk the earth. For just six weeks, visitors to the Zoo are taken back in time to a prehistoric world where they come face-to-face with life-size, moving dinosaurs - from the giant but gentle brachiosaurus to the towering tyrannosaurus rex. The UK’s biggest pregnancy and parenting event, The Baby Show with MadeForMums, is returning to London Olympia for a 15th year. The event offers new and expectant parents a huge choice of parenting musthaves all under one roof. Whether you’ve just found out you’re expecting and you’re looking for inspiration on what you need, or you’re stocking up on all the big essentials like a cot, buggy or car seat. McLaren is one of the most well-known and well-respected car makers in the world. And now the elite sports car manufacturer is offering an electric vehicle for kids. Sophie Ellis-Bextor knows all about the juggling act of life as a busy, working parent - but she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I love our busy, chaotic, noisy household with my boisterous boys,” says Sophie, 38, who’s balanced her music career with raising four boys - Sonny, 13, Kit, 8, Ray, 5, and Jesse, 17 months alongside her husband, The Feeling basist Richard Jones.
Alex Lux Editor
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Editor Alex Lux ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• senior business ACCOUNT manager Vanessa Lane ••••• ACCOUNT MANAGERS Nicola Drew Lisa Westerman ••••• Directors Rory Smith Patrick Smith
YUMMY MUMMY
[ S H O P P IN G ]
BABIES & KIDS SNUG AS A BUG
Keep summer babies snug as a bug with the new Creepy Crawlies personalised baby blanket from Charlotte Cot Blankets. This unique and useful baby blanket features a myriad of mini beasts. Introduce an interest in the natural world from birth and who knows where it may lead... Each blanket is individually knitted to order in Charlotte’s Norfolk studio, personalised with baby’s name and date of birth. The Creepy Crawlies blanket is available in Sky (cool and calm pale sky blue and white) and Field (a summery combination of blue, yellow, green, taupe and white. This blanket is knitted in cool cotton, prices start from £88. All the blankets are available to purchase from www.charlottecotblankets.com
Imaginative kids bedrooms The Imagine Fun 2 collection offers all styles of children’s decor from classic retro designs to more modern photographic, on trend themes – simply enter the mysterious world of Magical Kingdom or be a Superhero every night. This collection covers array of themes for boys and girls from toddlers to pre-teens. Creating cosy inspirational bedrooms, Imagine Fun 2 gives the freedom to personalise space, with even more affordable co-ordinating Wallcoverings and Home Decorative Products to choose from, than ever before. Create memorable childhood spaces with Imagine Fun 2, explore and discover a future that is still to happen. www.arthouse.com
BEST FOR BABY
new FLYING MINIONS! A new range of remote-controlled flying Minions characters are ready to fly off shelves following the highly anticipated release of Illumination’s Despicable Me 3. The toys feature innovative auto flight technology so children will have hours of fun flying their favourite characters through the air. www.wowstuff.co.uk 4 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
Finding a fun, practical and unique gift for a new baby or baby shower can be tricky but Chase and Wonder have got it all wrapped up for you. The baby wash bag and purse is the perfect gift for a mum to be or if you simply fancy treating yourself. www.chaseandwonder.com
CONTENTS OUT WITH THE KIDS
07
PREGNANCY, BIRTH & BABIES
33
BACK TO SCHOOL
55
FAMILY TIME
67
We bring you a round up of exciting events and things to do with the little ones Keeping you and baby happy and healthy throughout pregnancy and birth Everything you need to be prepared for starting, or going back to, school We’ve got everything covered from kids’ fashion to top parenting tips
0844 800 8439
www.thelifemagazines.com
YUMMY MUMMY
6 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
OUT WITH
THE KIDS – We bring you a round up of exciting events and things to do with the little ones – i mage : T H E B A B Y S H O W, 2 0 - 2 2 O CTO B E R
YUMMY MUMMY
ZOORASSIC PARK AT ZSL LONDON ZOO Until 3 September 2017
“Families are given their own passports for the time travel safari, which take them on a journey of discovery”
A
new herd of animals have arrived at ZSL London Zoo this summer, as the Zoo becomes home to the most colossal creatures ever to walk the earth
- dinosaurs! For just six weeks, visitors to the Zoo are taken back in time to a prehistoric world where they come face-to-face with life-size, moving dinosaurs - from the giant but gentle brachiosaurus to the towering tyrannosaurus rex. Launched on 22 July, ZSL’s Zoorassic Park is set to be the most roar-some event of the holidays. Included in Zoo entry, visitors take a trip via a 8 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
time machine to the Mesozoic era (about 65 million years ago – give or take a few days), where ZSL’s tour guides help visitors spot dino-faves like the triceratops, standing guard over its nest, or take them through an encounter with the armour-plated edmontonia - a tank-like dinosaur covered in spikes. Families are given their own passports for the time travel safari, which take them on a journey of discovery taking in the fascinating creatures, as well as learning all about the important work ZSL’s conservationists are doing to help prevent today’s animals from becoming extinct. With a fun trail for kids to complete, fossil digs
SUMMER SLEEPOVERS
to explore and baby dinosaurs to meet, visitors might not want to return to 2017! Dino-fans can continue their time travel adventure by sleeping-over near the mega-lizards, experiencing the sights and sounds of ZSL London Zoo at night. Summer Sleepover is available on select Saturdays in August and September, where kids can spend a night in the Zoo and enjoy a tour of the Zoo’s animals - both prehistoric and contemporary.
Zoorassic Park at ZSL London Zoo really is a claw-some adventure through time. Tickets for this raptor-ous summer day trip can be booked now at www.zsl.org Normal entry charges for ZSL London Zoo apply. Under 3s go free and you can save 10% by booking online. There is no additional charge for entering the Zoorassic Park experience. This is your opportunity to stay over at ZSL London Zoo and experience the excitement of the Zoo after dark. Your experience includes a chance to see Zoorassic Park after hours, before a good night’s sleep and a morning tour with some of our 17,000 animals. Breakfast is included in the ticket price.
2017 dates: Saturday 12 August Saturday 19 August Saturday 2 September Price: £85 per child Summer sleepovers will take place from 7pm, overnight until 10am, when you will then be free to spend the day in the Zoo. Tickets are available at www.zsl.org Follow on Twitter: @OfficialZSL @ZSLLondonZoo
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 9
YUMMY MUMMY
THE
BABY SHOW The UK’s biggest pregnancy and parenting event, The Baby Show with MadeForMums, is returning to London Olympia for a 15th year.
THE DETAILS Early bird tickets are on sale from 27th August - Friday £11.50 and Saturday & Sunday - £12.50 Standard Advance tickets Friday £14.45 and Saturday & Sunday - £15.45 £20 on the door. To purchase tickets and for more information visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk. Open Friday 20th – Sunday 22nd October from 10am - 5.30pm each day.
10 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
T
he event offers new and expectant parents a huge choice of parenting musthaves all under one roof. Whether you’ve just found out you’re expecting and you’re looking for inspiration on what you need, or you’re stocking up on all the big essentials like a cot, buggy or car seat – the show offers a wealth of expertise and options, plus great offers! Over 200 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest and best products including the likes of Mothercare, iCandy, Tommee Tippee, Peg Perego, VTech, Chicco, Stokke and Britax. Speakers taking to the MadeForMums stage include breastfeeding specialists, Vanessa Christie and Clare Byam-Cook, birth expert Beverley Turner, sleep experts Andrea Grace, Chireal Shallow and Lucy Shrimpton, First Aid guru, Tracey Taylor from the British Red Cross and entrepreneur and baby weaning expert, Annabel Karmel. And, if you’re looking for more personal and confidential advice, experts will be on hand throughout the show to answer your pregnancy and parenting questions privately in the One-to-One with the Experts area.
Highlights of The Baby Show at London Olympia include: • Over 200 trusted brands offering visitors the chance to thoroughly test and try before buying. • Exclusive show offers and competitions from top parenting brands. • The chance to listen and ask advice from the UK’s top baby experts. • Catwalk shows with all the latest fashions in maternity, baby and toddler wear. • The British Red Cross will be running regular 30
minute free of charge workshops where you can receive essential advice on what to do for your baby in an emergency. • Purpose-built baby facilities including a Tommee Tippee Feeding Area where parents can take advantage of heating and sterilising equipment, complimentary baby food from Babease, plus a comfortable space for quiet feeding. • A changing Area with complimentary nappies and wipes. • Emma’s Diary free Shop & Drop and CollectBy-Car services allowing visitors to leave their shopping bags and pick them up when they are ready to leave
YUMMY MUMMY
SUMMER FUN
SANDOWN PARK RACECOURSE SATURDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER Family Fun Day: Superheroes Return, Midday-6pm A day for the whole family to enjoy, top racing action and free entertainment for the little ones! There will be plenty of superhero themed fun to make sure your little heroes have the time of their lives! Dressing up as a superhero is optional but definitely encouraged in the Grandstand Enclosure. It’s not all about face painters, pony petting and space hopper racing, the horseracing is pretty impressive too! Tickets: Children come racing for free. Adults from £16 www.sandown.thejockeyclub.co.uk/eventstickets/whats-on/superhero-family-day
KEMPTON PARK RACECOURSE WEDNESDAY 16TH AUGUST Irish Night, 4.30pm-10pm
EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE MONDAY 28TH AUGUST Family Fun Day: Superheroes Return Enjoy an afternoon of top quality racing with free children’s entertainment. There will be plenty of action packed activities to keep everyone entertained throughout the day, which of course will all have their own Superhero twist. Take on the challenge of the high rope assault course, or zoom through the racecourse on a zip wire. There will be face painters, bouncy castles, a petting zoo and kids races too. To top it off, the Batmobile is back, for you to get up close to the infamous crime fighting supercar. Dressing up as a superhero is optional but definitely encouraged. In the morning it is Epsom Trainers’ Open Day, which is a unique opportunity for you and your children to see what goes on behind the scenes at the training yards, getting up close with the stars of the track, their trainers and stable staff The day commences at 8.30am with the chance to see the horses out on the gallops, then from 9.30am the racing yards will be open. Tickets: Children go racing for free. Racing £16 (in advance). Racing & Open Day £20 (in advance). Trainers Open Day £7.50. www.epsom.thejockeyclub.co.uk/events-tickets/ Whats-On/bank-holiday-family-fun-day 12 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
“A day for the whole family to enjoy, top racing action and free entertainment for the little ones!”
A fantastic evening of floodlit All Weather racing, with the first race at 6.20pm and the last at 9.20pm. After racing, there will be a concert in the Parade Ring by Murphy’s Marbles and Sean Cannon, of the world famous Dubliners, performing their Celtic Journey show, so expect some well-loved songs you can sing and dance to. Tickets: U18s come racing for free. Adults from £16 www.kempton.thejockeyclub.co.uk/eventstickets/whats-on/irish-night www.thejockeyclub.co.uk
YUMMY MUMMY
Discover your own ‘green’ fingers at Shrek’s Adventure! London F This summer, until 3rd September 2017.
amilies visiting London’s ‘greenest’ attraction Shrek’s Adventure! London this summer can pick-up some ogre-size gardening tips as well receiving their very own ‘swamp garden’ seed pack to take home and see how green fingered they can be! Created in partnership with Notcutts Garden Centre, the DreamWorks Tours: Shrek’s Adventure! London
14 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
summer holiday activities is aiming to encourage children to discover their own ‘green’ fingers and get planting at home. Once guests have hopped on the magical 4-D bus and been whisked off to Far Far Away they will arrive back to a lush giant garden where Shrek himself will be handing out the limited edition seed packs in his own Shrek garden. For those
“Shrek and buddies are visiting Notcutts garden centres around the UK”
MORE INFORMATION For more information please visit: www.shreksadventure.com/ london/ @Shreksadventure facebook.com/ shreksadventurelondon Shrek’s Adventure! London is situated on the South Bank of the River Thames beside the Coca Cola London Eye, opposite the Houses of Parliament. Riverside Building, County Hall Westminster Bridge Road London, SE1 7PB Opening times: Weekdays 10am - 4pm except Thursday 11am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 6pm Sunday 10am - 5pm youngsters who want to learn more about gardening when they get home there is also a range of garden videos shared throughout the summer holidays so they can keep on learning and growing! It’s not just in London that Shrek is sharing his gardening tips - Shrek and buddies are visiting Notcutts garden centres around the UK, sharing their own gardening tips and teaching children how to make their very own swamp gardens. Steve Blackburn, General Manager for Shrek’s
Adventure! London said: “Our attraction is all about whisking our guests away to the magical land of Far Far Away and we wanted to extend that magic experience by giving them a little bit of ‘green fingered’ magic to take home to their own garden this summer.” Notcutts marketing director Julie Murray said: “We are delighted to be teaming up with Shrek’s Adventure! London to encourage more children to get outdoors, whether it is to help wildlife or to create their own little garden. Gardening is such a fabulous hobby that gets children outside, using their imagination and hopefully having lots of fun too!” Shrek’s Adventure! London is the capital’s newest family attraction, combining live action, stunning iconic sets and exclusive DreamWorks animation. The adventure begins when visitors of all ages are whisked away on a 4D magic bus tour and with Donkey as the mischievous tour guide, calamity, chaos and endless fun are the name of the game. Be part of the 10 live fairy-tale themed shows where you can visit Shrek’s swamp, find your fortune in the crystal ball, get lost in the Mirror maze and reveal your inner Ogre when needed! Familiar characters from the Shrek franchise greet guests along the way before everyone’s favourite ogre welcomes them back to London alongside the rest of the DreamWorks gang including characters from How to Train your Dragon and Madagascar. This OGRE SIZED experience lasts for approximately 75 minutes.
Notcutts is a family-owned group of 18 garden centres Notcutts Garden Centres with locations including St Albans, Cranleigh and Tunbridge Wells. www.notcutts.co.uk
London Big Ticket The London Big Ticket puts visitors in control, offering great savings when you combine booking any of the unmissable Merlin London attractions including: the Coca-Cola London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, London Dungeon, SEA LIFE London, Shrek’s Adventure! London, the London Eye River Cruise and Big Bus tours. This ticket offer means guests will be able to visit a combination of these attractions from £40 and best of all, you get to pick the attractions to make up the offer. www.londonbigticket.com for more information
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 15
YUMMY MUMMY
Does a ski trip make the perfect Family Christmas?
C
hristmas is always a special time for families, but a family skiing holiday could make the next one an experience the whole family talks about for years to come. We all dream of a white Christmas and if you head to the Alps you’ll have snow underfoot, crackling log fires and a seasonal atmosphere like no other. Family skiing specialist Ski Famille has a range of special festive packages for the coming ski season. The company has cosy luxurious family ski chalets in the resorts of Les Gets, Les Menuires (3 Valleys) and La Plagne. All of the properties offer their renowned in-chalet childcare throughout the week. Christmas in a Ski Famille catered chalet allows the whole family to relax while the friendly and professional chalet team takes care of you. Imagine, no cooking or washing up on Christmas Day! There is a traditional Christmas Dinner, decorations, real log fires, crackers and even a visit from Father Christmas. For Mums and Dads there is plenty of Christmas cheer with complimentary wines and
fizz, plus every chalet has its own hot tub. Ski resorts themselves go to great lengths to create a lovely seasonal environment and there are often opportunities to meet Father Christmas in the village … or even on the slopes! Most resorts have a torchlit descent by local ski instructors with Father Christmas followed by a firework display. Les Gets in particular pulls out all of the stops; a trip to see Father Christmas in his cabin in the woods rivals any Lapland type experience. Christmas doesn’t get in the way of you getting out on the slopes. All of the ski lifts and ski schools operate as normal all week, ensuring you have plenty of time to explore the slopes and stop off at picturesque mountain restaurants for the occasional festive hot chocolate or vin chaud. If children are too young to ski with you they will be having a ball with the Ski Famille childcare team. For the 2017 festive season Ski Famille is offering free child places over both Christmas and New Year. Free places apply to children under five, with older children receiving discounts of up to 75%.
Family Christmas Skiing example A magical family Christmas in Chalet Grand Mouflon, Les Gets Stay in a family suite for £2,876 for a family of 4*. Price includes: Gatwick to Geneva flights (other airports available) Transfers to your resort Chalet board accommodation – breakfast, afternoon tea and 3 course evening meals, complimentary wines and children’s high tea Traditional family Christmas dinner Visit to the Les Gets Enchanted Forest to see Father Christmas (offered as part of Ski Famille’s childcare service) Chalet visit from Father Christmas *Price based on a family of 4 with children aged 3 and 5
To find out more visit www.skifamille.co.uk or call 01252 759 079. Facebook www.facebook.com/familyskiing Twitter: @skifamille
16 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
YUMMY MUMMY
“Yes, the Ride On Electric McLaren P1 is technically a toy, but this Volcano Yellow supercar is not your typical children’s plaything”
18 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
McLaren Unveils Electric Car
...for Kids M
cLaren is one of the most well-known and well-respected car makers in the world. And now the elite sports car manufacturer is offering an electric vehicle – for kids. You can start your child on the right track with McLaren’s incredible toy supercar… yes, the Ride On Electric McLaren P1 is technically a toy, but this Volcano Yellow supercar is not your typical children’s plaything. The diminutive Ride-On McLaren P1™ is aimed at enthusiasts under the age of six and differs from its larger brother in two important areas. Firstly, it has a central driving position, just like the iconic McLaren F1. Secondly, your little one will be able to experience what adults never could: an open-top McLaren P1™. Yet cleverly the design still retains McLaren’s signature dihedral doors. And like every McLaren, its acceleration is startling. The zero to maximum speed dash takes just two seconds, maximum speed being a heady 3mph. The environmentally-friendly machine surges into life via a one-button stop/start function automatically activating the lights and ‘airconditioning’ unit. An MP3 player and audio system is standard and helpfully already pre-programmed with every popular nursery rhyme. It also features a reverse gear in addition to its three speed, forward
transmission. Handy if you’ve arrived early for your appointment with Father Christmas. In a contrast to McLaren’s usual policy of offering limitless colour and trim combinations, this time the choice for the busy six year old is made easy with only one colour on offer: Volcano Yellow. The Ride On, electric McLaren P1TM is the first officially licensed product from McLaren Automotive to enter this growing market segment and is the most compact car yet to wear the McLaren badge. Hence customers ideally should be between 3-6 years old to drive it. Although young drivers beyond this age group might also fit. Needless to say, the car will no doubt make your child the envy of their friends, and you might be able to fit in a ride for yourself if you’re willing to squeeze. McLaren has released a fun video on their website showing the car being put through its paces by a small child The Ride On, electric McLaren P1TM is the first officially licensed product from McLaren Automotive, and is now available from selected McLaren Automotive retailers around the world priced at £375.00, followed by recognised global toy retailers. For local pricing and availability, please visit www.cars.mclaren.com for more details Facebook: www.facebook.com/ mclarenautomotive Twitter: www.twitter.com/McLarenAuto You Tube: www.youtube.com/ mclarenautomotivetv
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 19
YUMMY MUMMY
The D Throne SA luxury Electric toy car built for the mini millionaire in your life
L
uxury cars often make heads turn when they drive by in their all-elegant gleaming avatars. This though, is hardly ever the case when you see a kid zooming around in a cute little toy car. However, here to make your jaws drop is the D Throne S Electric. For those of you with a love of luxury vehicles, this is a one in a million chance to make your child have the same tastes as you - and the quality of the craftsmanship is unparalleled considering that it’s intended for use by a child. Outrageously stylish and well made, boasting a design aesthetic inspired by the vehicles of the early 1900s, there is an awful lot to love about these
“There is an awful lot to love about these contraptions for the little person in your life”
Luxury cars often make heads turn when they drive by in their all-elegant gleaming avatars. This though, is hardly ever the case when you see a kid zooming around in a cute little toy car. However, here to make your jaws drop is the D Throne S Electric.
20 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
contraptions for the little person in your life. The four-wheeled work of art bears all the hallmarks of craftsmanship one might associate with a luxury brand. The super-luxe D Throne S is painstakingly designed and is in all probability the most luxurious toy your child could ever own. The tiny automobile also offers you a perfect reason to bond with you little
“A great attention to detail can also be seen in the exterior and interior design of the car” one, with a space on its rear that easily allows an adult to hop on board. Parents can also activate different modes on the smart controller and turn the D. Throne S into a motorised or non-motorised stroller. Designed by Seoul-based Hyunsoo Choi and Taeno Yoon at Joongho Choi Studio, D Throne is certainly no ordinary car manufacturer – they are currently on their third generation of their electric cars which just seem to be getting better and better with time. A great attention to detail can also be seen in the exterior and interior design of the car with finishes of exquisite car enamel and hand-made leather seats, four-inch aluminum wheels, side LEDs and working headlights for safety. This model also has been composed by simply dividing its body parts into two sections, which are top and bottom, using plastic molding techniques. In addition, it is designed to simultaneously configure gold grill parts located in front of the body, and a fender structure attached to each wheel, which maintains a design of a classic car. Concurrently, it has implemented a user-friendly feature that allows users to safely and easily manage and use the car. The luxe little car can be purchased in black, khaki, and. an off-white colour (complete with shimmering copper accentuations in both models). If you can afford to pamper your child silly (with no monetary limits whatsoever!), then buying him/ her the luxurious D Throne S is probably the ultimate gift. The rechargeable battery provides up to 10 hours of driving time, so a family can enjoy outdoor activities while it is available to convert the mode in situations when carrying children in something like a stroller. It has slip-proof breaks to prevent the car slipping. To have these various functions possible, the structures of the design and appearance have been delicately constructed by placing the parts and accessories though the engineering technology during the electronic car development process. The Korean electric car manufacturer has certainly made it big by going small, and counts amongst its esteemed clients Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Al Maktoum, the Crown Price of Dubai, who placed a customised order blinged out
with over 2,000 Swarovski crystals. Dimensions of the D Throne S are 40”H x 23.5”L x 15”W and can hold up to 200kg. For those who really want to spoil their child with a piece of automotive awesomeness, this is surely the chief candidate for the job. Interested in designing a varied range of objects, Joongho Choi and his team have participated in numerous projects ranging from lighting to IT electronics and furniture. Building partnerships with various companies including American Standard, 3M, Jabra, Samsung, Banyan Tree and etc, they were introduced and awarded by several globally known media. Their brand philosophy is to create a product that is based on the reality, and the comfort of comfort for a long time.
To find out more email contact@dthronefamily.com; www.dthronefamily.com; www.joonghochoi.com AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 21
YUMMY MUMMY
Are you ready for a summer of fun at
Summer is here and as everyone flocks to the beaches there is one thing that definitely will not be welcome on Britain’s sandy shores – Jellyfish!
LONDON BIG TICKET
H
owever, SEA LIFE London is on a myth-busting mission this year with its most recent experience, Ocean Invaders: Enter the world of the jellyfish. As the largest jellyfish facility in the UK, be prepared to learn about these fascinating creatures before you come face to face with them on your summer holidays. The new interactive, sensory-led experience is divided into three areas – ‘Discover’, ‘Understand’ and ‘Wow’- where visitors can observe over 5,000 jellyfish and begin to unravel the mysteries surrounding them. Learn facts such as: • Jellyfish catch their prey with their stinging tentacles • Best way to treat a sting is with warm water and to wrap it in a hot compress You will find the answer to more of your burning questions at SEA LIFE London, learning about their diets, lifecycle and why we can expect to see more of them in the next few years. All before heading on to an interactive game where you can put your new found knowledge to the test! Experts will be on hand to fill you with jellyfish facts and what makes them so unique. SEA LIFE London is located on the South Bank close to Waterloo and Westminster stations. Visitors have the chance to get closer than ever before to the creatures and features of the world’s oceans.
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Visitors can explore the frozen extremities of the Antarctic life at Penguin Point, stroll through the glass Ocean Tunnel and step out of the ocean into the Rainforests of the World – experiencing what life is like beneath the tropical treetops for their Cuban crocodile, piranhas and poison dart frogs. For opening times, feeding times, prices and more, visit www.visitsealife.com/london.
The London Big Ticket puts visitors in control, offering great savings when you combine booking any of the unmissable Merlin London attractions including: the Coca-Cola London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, London Dungeon, SEA LIFE London, Shrek’s Adventure! London, the London Eye River Cruise and Big Bus tours. This ticket offer means guests will be able to visit a combination of these attractions from £40 and best of all, you get to pick the attractions to make up the offer. Visit www.londonbigticket.com for more information.
YUMMY MUMMY
ANGEL
SWIM “H
ello Mums and Dads from Angel Swim London! I hope you and your little ones have been keeping well! My name is Adam Knight, I have been an aquatic professional for the last 9 years and teaching babies and children to swim is my absolute passion. I would like to personally invite you and your little one to join Angel Swim London and attend our Autumn term at my new pool just off the Kings Road in Chelsea commencing on Tuesday 5th and Wednesday 6th September. Baby swimming offers an abundance of benefits. Not only will we teach your baby skills which could one day save their life, but they will also develop physically, socially, cognitively and emotionally. Baby swimming is a great opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and your baby, improve sleeping and eating patterns and release stress!
“At Angel Swim London we believe in quality over quantity and as such have a MAX of 4 babies per class” We provide swimming lessons for babies from 4 weeks to children of 6 years. At Angel Swim London we believe in quality over quantity and as such have a MAX of 4 babies per class (as opposed to the traditional 8) which allows me to give each child the one on one feedback and attention they deserve which, ultimately, leads to faster progress. We also provide 2-2-1 and private 1-2-1 lessons for our Angels aged 3+ years. Group classes: £25 per lesson; 2 -2-1: £35 per lesson; Private 1-2-1: £49 per lesson. Our warm, peaceful hydrotherapy pool is the hidden gem of Chelsea - located at Park Walk Primary School, SW10 0AY, just off the King’s Road. Heated between 30-32 degrees celcius, our pool is 7 x 3 metres of tranquility. Its shallow depth (88cm) and handrails throughout make it a safe and fun learning environment for your little Angel to build confidence and progress on their journey.” Limited places available on Tuesdays 3.15pm 6:15pm and Wednesdays 1pm - 5.30pm. Autumn term lasts for 14 weeks and lessons last 30 minutes. To reserve your place please fill out a booking form on the website: www.angelswim.london or alternatively you can call Adam direct on 07435 278 910 24 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
Family fun at Bocketts Farm Park E 22nd July – 3rd September 2017
njoy a great day out at Bocketts Farm this summer with a full programme of fun activities! Children will enjoy the Animal Passport Trail as they collect stamps from around the farm. Other daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, gold panning, animal handling, goat milking and the famous pig racing. In addition, the Small Animal Village and Big Animal Barn are open where you can meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals. Plus, don’t miss the brilliant Water Wars Splash Zone, which involves launching water filled balloons at your opponent’s station – great fun for all ages! With 2 large indoor play barns, trampolines, young driver’s area, sandpits, pedal go-karts, treehouse towers and 2 giant jumping pillows, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused. www.bockettsfarm.com
PREGNANCY, BIRTH & BABIES
– Keeping you and baby happy and healthy throughout pregnancy and birth – i mage : healt hy m u m s to b e
YUMMY MUMMY
What you need to know about chicken pox W
Dr Rai from The London General Practice, discusses the symptoms and treatment of chickenpox.
ith summer comes the emergence of viruses such as Chickenpox, a highly contagious infection caused by the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). Predominantly affecting children under 12, it can affect anyone at any age if they have not previously had the infection or the vaccination. It is usually a mild illness and clears up in a week or so, but can be dangerous for some people, such as pregnant women, new-born babies and those with a weakened immune system. Whilst there is a chickenpox vaccine it is not part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule.
TRANSMISSION Around 90% of people who come into contact with an affected person will develop the condition. Transmission is through direct person to person contact, airborne droplet infection, or even through contact with infected clothing or bedding.
INCUBATION PERIOD The incubation period is around 14-21 days. The most infectious period being 1-2 days before the rash appears, but infectivity continues until all the lesions are dry and have crusted over, usually about 5 days after the onset of the rash.
SYMPTOMS Symptoms normally start with fever and a general feeling of malaise. Then a intensely itchy rash 34 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
develops. The chickenpox lesions usually start on the body or face, later spreading to the limbs and scalp. It typically begins with small red spots which quickly develop into a blisters which scab over in a few days.
TREATMENT Paracetamol can be used to help alleviate symptoms such as fever and pain. Ibuprofen or other antiinflammatories should not be used in children or adults with chickenpox. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, wear loose comfortable cotton clothing and keep nails short to avoid scratching. Calamine lotion can help relieve the itching as well as Piriton which is an antihistamine and licensed for the symptomatic relief of itching from chickenpox for children over the age of one.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE It is important to contact your doctor if you are not sure of the diagnosis, if your baby is less than four weeks old, if you develop chickenpox as an adult or if the symptoms haven’t started to improve after six days. Also if you have been in contact with someone who has chickenpox (or you have symptoms) and you’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system. Also seek medical advice and see your GP if you or your child have signs of chickenpox complications, such as swollen and painful skin, difficulty breathing or dehydration.
THE DETAILS The London General Practice provides a wide range of Private Medical Services including vaccinations against Chickenpox. If you would like to contact the Practice please telephone 020 7935 1000. OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK 16 Devonshire Street, London W1G 7AF www.thelondongeneralpractice.com
YUMMY MUMMY
JoJo Maman Bebe Embroidered Blouse
Just pregnant?
6 ways to hide your bump for the first three months WORDS: Kate Whiting
T
Isabella Oliver Harris Maternity Cardigan
he maternity wear experts reveal how to disguise that growing bump until you’re ready to tell. Knowing what to wear in early pregnancy, as your bump starts to grow, can be a minefield. Deviate wildly from your normal wardrobe and you risk arousing suspicion, but trying to squeeze yourself into those size 10 skinny jeans just ain’t gonna to happen anymore. So, assuming you’re keeping it a secret from work colleagues and friends until you’ve had the all-clear at the 12-week scan, what’s the answer for achieving a transitional maternity wear wardrobe, without giving the game away? “Dressing for the first three months of pregnancy can be tricky,” admits Baukjen de Swaan Arons, founder and creative director of the Isabella Oliver maternity range. “It’s such an exciting time, but simultaneously, there’s an apprehension to spread your happy news until you’ve had the first scan. At Isabella
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Oliver, we’re totally aware of this and design clothes that are not only suitable for burgeoning mums-tobe, but work during the first few months too.” Here are some tips from Baukjen and Laura Tenison, founder and MD of JoJo Maman Bebe.
1. The life-saver “Before you rush out and buy maternity clothes, take a look at your current pieces and see what you can work with; a bump bandeau can hide a multitude of sins - including a fly that won’t do up!” says Laura. Try: JoJo Maman Bebe Multi-Use Maternity Bump Bandeau, £15
2. Trusty jeans When those flies really won’t zip up anymore, and not even a bump band can hide it, it’s time to invest in some good maternity jeans. “Don’t ditch the skinny jeans just because you’re expecting,” says Laura. “Stay true to your style, but make a few tweaks - invest in a great fitting pair of jeans with built-in bump support.” “Our best-selling maternity denim has a builtin elasticated jersey panel, which supports and comforts a growing waistline,” adds Baukjen.
“Before you rush out and buy maternity clothes, take a look at your current pieces and see what you can work with”
JoJo Maman Bebe Multi-Use Maternity Bump Bandeau
JoJo Maman Bebe Waterfall Feeding Cardigan
JoJo Maman Bebe Super Stretch Maternity Skinny Jeans JoJo Maman Bebe Navy Shift Dress
“Make sure darker colours are strategically placed over your tummy, the darker portion won’t draw attention to a growing bump” Try: Isabella Oliver The Relaxed Maternity Jean, £99 JoJo Maman Bebe Super Stretch Maternity Skinny Jeans, £35
3. Distract attention
4. Let it flow “Loose, flowing layers will be your best friend when disguising a bump,” says Laura. “A waterfall-style cardigan can be used throughout your pregnancy and after birth too, thanks to the oversized fit.” “Waterfall cardigans, like our Harris Maternity Cardigan, draws the eye downwards and drape beautifully, making them a great choice for mums to be,” adds Baukjen. Try: JoJo Maman Bebe Waterfall Feeding Cardigan, £35 Isabella Oliver Harris Maternity Cardigan, currently £44, reduced from £89
5. Turn to the dark side “Simple, classic cuts will see you through the entire nine months, as well as subsequent pregnancies thanks to their timelessness,” says Laura. “Dark colours will create less shadows for a more flattering look.” “Make sure darker colours are strategically placed over your tummy, the darker portion won’t draw attention to a growing bump,” adds Baukjen. Try: JoJo Maman Bebe Navy Shift Dress, currently £21, reduced from £35 Isabella Oliver Mari Maternity Top, currently £29, reduced from £59
6. The classic shirt “Blouses and shirts, like our Granville Maternity Shirt, are designed to have a billowy fit with a slight stretch, which can hide a belly,” says Baukjen. Try: Isabella Oliver Granville Maternity Shirt, £85
Isabella Oliver Roxby Top
Images courtesy of PA Photo/Hndout
“Choose styles that help distract from your midsection. Embroidery or prints confined to the collarbone area draw the eye upwards, so the focus isn’t on your growing bump,” says Laura. “Long tops and bold prints can elongate your form and disguise your growing tummy,” adds Baukjen. Try: JoJo Maman Bebe Embroidered Blouse, currently £14, reduced from £26 Isabella Oliver Roxby Top, currently £41, reduced from £69
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 37
YUMMY MUMMY
Ask the Expert:
What is Group B Strep, and will I be tested for it while I’m pregnant? WORDS: By Lisa Salmon, Press Association
The charity Group B Strep Support talks about this potentially killer infection of newborn babies, and how to get tested for it.
I
’m eight months pregnant - will I get tested for group B Strep before I give birth, and what could happen to my baby if I’m not tested and he/she catches it from me? Jane Plumb, chief executive of the charity Group B Strep Support, says: “Testing for group B Strep (GBS) carriage is not routinely offered in the UK, unlike many other developed countries. “GBS-specific tests aren’t widely available within the NHS, but are privately for under £40 for hometesting packs. The tests are available from those listed at GBS tests. “If GBS is detected at any time during your current pregnancy, you should be offered
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intravenous antibiotics (usually penicillin) from the start of labour and at intervals until your baby’s born. This can reduce the risk of a newborn baby developing GBS infection by over 80%. “Thankfully, most babies don’t develop GBS infection but, for those who do, it can be very serious. GBS is the most common cause of severe infection in newborn babies, including sepsis, pneumonia and meningitis, and requires urgent inpatient treatment with intravenous antibiotics. “In the UK, on average, two babies a day develop GBS infection, one baby a week dies and one survivor a week is left with disability. “Most GBS infection in babies occurs in the first 12 hours of life, and they become increasingly uncommon as time goes by. After three months of age, GBS infections are very rare indeed. For more information, ask your midwife, doctor or Group B Strep Support on 01444 416 176.
“In the UK, on average, two babies a day develop GBS infection, one baby a week dies and one survivor a week is left with disability”
PACKING YOUR HOSPITAL BAG While every mum likes different items to bring to the hospital, there are some things that are inevitable must-haves.
“F
rancis & Henry” created sets of basic essentials that mums love wearing at the hospital and end up living in during the first weeks after baby’s arrival. The “Mama Bundles” include
heavenly soft pieces, which are feminine, comfortable clothes women like to wear - pregnant or not. They are designed to fit during every stage of pregnancy and easily cover for the main mama essentials on your hospital-bag check list that you will actually need. They include a jersey cardigan (long and dark grey that will be a good comfort-providing robe during hospital stay), The Nursing Dress - comes in toned colors, with a unique V-neck that stretches easily for breastfeeding. What makes Francis & Henry swaddles special is their gender-neutral. signature balloon print. It’s a hand-drawn pencil illustration that stole the heart of many. Last but not least - the idea behind the brand was to make pregnancy and birth more about women, not only the new baby, as the special time of baby delivery is a rewarding yet challenging moment of every mom’s journey - so these bundles all come in absolutely beautiful packaging, that turn them into perfect baby shower gifts that make every mummy-to-be smile. See more at www.francisandhenry.com IG: @francisandhenry
YUMMY MUMMY
Healthy mums-to-be Being pregnant is really exciting, and having a baby is the most amazing thing that can happen in our lives.
H
ere is an essential guide to keeping you and your baby healthy throughout your pregnancy. When you’re pregnant, eating healthily is doubly important. That’s because every day your baby’s brain and organs are growing and it needs lots of the right nutrients to do this. Eating healthily during pregnancy can also help your baby after it’s born, reducing its risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. And for you, being healthier overall can also help lessen the risk of depression after your baby is born.
Eat for you, not for two In the past, it was thought that you need to eat for you and your baby during pregnancy. But we now know that you only need to eat for you. Being pregnant doesn’t mean that you’ll automatically put on weight. Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy means it’s easier for you to carry your baby, and to have fewer complications at birth. It also means that your baby is more likely to be a healthy weight – both at birth and as they grow up.
Foods to include Eating a variety of foods will help your baby to get the range of nutrients that it needs to develop and be healthy. • Fruit and vegetables: try to eat at least 5 portions of fruit and veg a day, to provide the vitamins, minerals and fibre your baby needs. 40 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
• Starchy foods (carbohydrates): Bread, potatoes, breakfast cereals, rice, pasta and noodles. Try to eat wholemeal versions if you can. • Protein: Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, beans, pulses and nuts. Protein provides the building blocks for your baby to grow. • Dairy products: Milk, cheese and yoghurt. These contain calcium, essential for healthy bones.
A healthier baby
Being active during pregnancy means you’re likely maintain a healthier weight and be able to cope better with the physical demands of pregnancy and labour. It also reduces the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, birth defects and diabetes. Being active can also prevent you from getting high blood pressure, which can result in a stillbirth.
And a healthier you 150 minutes of walking a week makes it easier to get
back to your normal weight after your baby is born. It can also: • Give you more energy, help you sleep better, and reduce stress, anxiety and depression. • Make you stronger, so you can carry the weight of your growing baby. • Prepare your body for the physical challenge of labour. This can help to make labour quicker and reduce the risk of complications. • Help to lessen the risk of depression after your baby is born.
Baby on the way, quit today!
If you smoke while you’re pregnant, your baby smokes too. If there ever was a moment for you and your partner to quit, it’s now. It’s the most important decision you can make for your baby. Know the risks It’s difficult to imagine when you can’t see your baby, but smoking when you’re pregnant is like blowing smoke in your baby’s face. Even other people’s cigarette smoke will pass into your bloodstream and from there into your baby. Smoking when pregnant increases the chances of miscarriage, stillbirth and cot death. A baby whose mum smoked is at least 25% more likely to die from cot death than a baby whose mum didn’t smoke. It may be that you know people who have smoked when pregnant and their baby has been fine – but you are gambling with your baby’s health.
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Laura Kenny: What I’ve learned during my pregnancy The British Olympian talks us through her pregnancy. WORDS: Ella Walker, Press Association
L
aura Kenny is one incredible woman. She’s not only the most successful female cyclist Britain has ever produced, but also the most decorated female British Olympian of all time too, with four gold medals under her belt from team pursuit and omnium wins at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 games. Now, the 25-year-old and her husband, fellow British cyclist and six-times gold Olympic medallist Jason Kenny, 29, are expecting their first baby. Here, the Harlow-born athlete she shares snippets of the ups and downs of her pregnancy, what she’s learned along the way, and why she believes it’s so important to listen to your body. Tell people about your pregnancy in your own way “I felt a bit under pressure in terms of me and Jason wanting to announce it,” Laura recalls. “We didn’t want to read it in a newspaper or have anybody question it before we announced it. But the other part of us was like, ‘Ah, we want to keep it as our secret for as long as possible’ - because it’s one thing you’ve created. It’s the one thing only you two know. So, we wanted to keep it quiet, but the other part of us wanted to announce our news because it was our news to tell.” It takes time to adjust to the changes happening to your body “I found it quite difficult to start with, in terms of losing my abs and stuff. I’ve always had a six-pack, that’s all I’ve ever really known. And then, obviously, all of a sudden, it’s out of your control. It’s not what I’m eating - I could eat no different and still put on weight,” says the cyclist, admitting that before she and Jason had announced the pregnancy, “I got little bit self-conscious about people thinking, ‘Ah, she’s just gone on this break and she’s just gone mad!’ Once I announced it and once I started to show, I really actually quite enjoyed it. I don’t mind it at all really - you can get some lovely clothes now.” Work your diet around how you’re feeling and what your own body needs “I know a lot of people that, when they get pregnant, go super-healthy. I wouldn’t say I’ve done that. I’d say I’m eating pretty normally, but a little more often,” says Laura, who is also a brand ambassador for Pod Food. “I’m making sure I’m not getting really hungry at any time in the day because I feel I might have a real sugar loss if I stop eating, and that’s when I start to feel a bit rough, a bit sick.”
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No matter how fit and healthy you are, you’re still going to feel uncomfortable at times “I get heartburn really easily during the night. That’s been the only side effect I’ve had that’s been a bit of a pain,” says Laura. “It’ll be two or three o’clock, and I’m laying there, literally in pain. I feel like my chest is on fire. It’s awful. So, we figured, if we eat our dinner at half five, then have a bit of yogurt or something before bed, then I don’t get it.” Eating for two isn’t a hard and fast rule “Part of me feels like that’s a bit of a myth,” Laura muses. “I would definitely say that early on in the
“She and her coach have continued to set out structured plans through her pregnancy, the intensity dipping as time goes on”
pregnancy, like pre-16 weeks, I was really hungry. I was putting little things next to the bed so that if I woke up in the middle of the might, I could just have something, like Scottish pancakes. I was just having something like that - something small but filling, because otherwise I was going downstairs for a bowl of cereal, and then I couldn’t go back to sleep again. Definitely pre-16 weeks I was eating a lot more, but after that, I just went back to normal.” And not everyone experiences cravings, so don’t feel strange if you haven’t had any “I literally haven’t had anything!” Even Olympic athletes have to scale back on their training when pregnant “I don’t call it training, I call it exercise,” says Laura, explaining how she and her coach have continued to set out structured plans through her pregnancy, the intensity dipping as time goes on. “So I may want to go out and ride my bike for an hour-and-a-half, but I might not actually be able to, so everything’s really tailored back.” But it’s OK to keep exercising for as long as you feel able to “Maybe with four weeks to go, I might have to stop exercising. Maybe not completely. I’ll keep walking the dogs and things like that, or even just going out on the bike,” says Laura - but she’s unlikely to be speeding round the velodrome by that point. “I’ve got a hybrid bike. That’s a lot more comfortable than other bikes - and I’ve got a bump, so it’s not that easy to get into position on a road bike!” Laura Kenny is a brand ambassador for Pod Food (www.pod.co.uk)
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YUMMY MUMMY
Why does my baby cry after feeding?
A baby’s constant crying after a feed could be caused by colic or an allergy, says Dr Sarah Jarvis. WORDS: Lisa Salmon, Press Association
G
P Dr Sarah Jarvis says: “Coping with a crying baby, particularly one that seems inconsolable, can be emotionally and physically draining. But it’s important to remember it’s not your fault. “All babies cry and most of the time it’s harmless and part of their natural instinct. “Feeding problems such as colic can cause babies to cry more than normal, particularly around feeding. Feeding issues affect up to half of all infants, and colic affects up to one in five babies - so it’s probably more common than you might think. “As well as the intense crying, other symptoms of colic can be clenched fists, an arched back, and a red or flushed face in an otherwise completely healthy baby. “Reflux and regurgitation, when babies bring up their feed during or shortly after feeding, and
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constipation, are also common baby feeding problems which cause excessive crying, general irritability and discomfort. “Cows’ milk allergy, albeit less common (affecting around 2 to 7.5% of babies under one year of age), can cause a very wide range of symptoms such as rashes, failing to gain weight, reluctance to feed, diarrhoea and vomiting.” “Don’t worry, if it’s colic or another feeding problem there are things you can do to help, such as feeding techniques and dietary changes. If you suspect a feeding problem such as reflux or cows’ milk allergy, you should speak to your GP, pharmacist or health visitor.” An online symptom checker is available at C&G BabyClub (www.cgbabyclub.co.uk/babysymptom-checker)
“If it’s colic or another feeding problem there are things you can do to help”
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Working parents: 8 rights you might not know you’re entitled to The Working Families charity outlines the most important rights for parents who work. By Lisa Salmon, Press Association
B
eing a working parent can be tough, and there are plenty of legal rights designed to make it a little easier. But many working parents don’t know what their rights are. New research has found 41% of parents are unaware of their legal right to take unpaid parental leave to care for their children, and 75% admit to never having taken advantage of this entitlement. The research by employment law specialists Crossland suggests 27% of parents will spend up to £800 on holiday club fees over the school summer holidays, when they could have simply taken unpaid leave. Take-up of the entitlement is just 25%. Employment solicitor Liz Gardiner, advice service development leader at Working Families, says: “Parents contact us every week because they’re uncertain about what rights they have. Parental leave, flexible working and emergency leave can all be useful tools for parents trying to balance work and family life.”
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Working Families outlines the main parental rights as: 1. Maternity leave
All women who are employees are entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave. When you go back to work after the first six months of maternity leave, you have the right to return to your old job on your old terms and conditions. If you take more than six months of maternity leave, you can return to your old job unless it’s “not reasonably practicable”, in which case your employer must offer you a suitable alternative job on similar terms and conditions.
2. Maternity pay To get Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) you need to have worked for your employer since before you became pregnant, and still be employed by them 15 weeks before the baby’s due. For the first six weeks, your Maternity pay is 90% of your average earnings. For the next 33 weeks, it’s 90% of your average earnings or £140.98 per week, whichever’s lower.
3. Maternity allowance If you can’t get SMP, you may be entitled to
Maternity Allowance (MA) if you’re employed or self-employed, based on your work record in the 66 weeks before the baby’s due. If you’re self-employed, you must have paid Class 2 National Insurance or been eligible to do so.
4. Paternity leave Only fathers/partners who are employees are eligible for paternity leave. You’ll also need to have worked continuously for your employer for 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before the baby’s due, and still be employed by the employer on the day the child’s born. You can choose when to take your leave, in a period between the birth and 56 days after, for one or two consecutive weeks. Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) is paid at £140.98 per week (or 90% of average earnings, whichever’s lower).
5. Shared parental leave Only parents who are employees can take SPL, and the other parent must also have some recent work history (which could be self-employed or employed). SPL can be taken at any time during the first year of the baby’s life, but there are two weeks of compulsory maternity leave which the mother must take. There are a maximum of 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay that may be shared. SPL is created by the mother curtailing her maternity leave and/or pay, so the father/partner can take the balance. Shared Parental Pay (ShPP) is the flat rate of £140.98 (or 90% of average earnings, whichever is lower) for a maximum of 37 weeks. Only 6% of working parents take shared parental leave.
6. Parental leave This is unpaid time off work to care for your children. You are entitled to take unpaid parental leave if you’ve worked for at least a year for your employer, you have a child under 18 and you give your employer 21 days’ notice. You’re entitled to 18 weeks of parental leave per parent, per child but you may not be able to take this all in one go. Check whether your employer has a workplace agreement about parental leave - if not, you can usually only take four weeks per child in any one year. Most parents will have to take unpaid parental leave a week at a time.
7. Time off for dependants This is the right to emergency unpaid leave if your child is sick or childcare arrangements fall through unexpectedly. It can also be used to care for others who may depend on you. You have the right to take reasonable unpaid time off, usually of no more than one or two days, to give you time to put other arrangements in place. You must let your employer know what’s happening and return to work as soon as possible. Your employer should not penalise you for taking reasonable time off in a genuine emergency.
8. Right to request flexible working If you’ve been an employee for 26 weeks, you have the right to ask to work flexibly, and your employer has a duty to consider your request seriously. You can ask to change the hours or days you work, or to work from home. Your employer should only turn you down for a statutory business reason, and should reach a decision within three months of your request. For more information, call the Working Families helpline on 0300 012 0312. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 47
YUMMY MUMMY
Best for Baby Weaning Sips
B
y the time six months has passed since your little one’s birth, you’ve already made countless decisions on what to buy and what not to buy. Then weaning starts and it’s a whole new ball game, amassing more gadgets and gizmos in search for the ‘perfect’ pieces of kit. But step aside spouts and seals, move over miracle claims, goodbye numerous new drinking stages and so long suckers! Would the real ‘best for baby’ weaning beaker please stand up!
An open cup Plain and simple. Leading health experts recommend sipping from an open cup. There are many reasons for this, most prominently are the discussions around oral health and the dental and orthodontic benefits of sipping (instead of sucking as would happen with teats and spouts and no-spill seals). Because good oral health starts from the very beginning, even pre-teeth, it’s important to look after baby gums, and then when the first teeth start to appear it’s vital that they are taken care of too. Those little pearly whites act as placeholders for our adult teeth, so it makes sense to take the experts’ advice and start as you mean to go. Parents are advised to introduce a cup rather than a bottle from about six months old, according to the NHS, and as weaning is a stage when your little one has an adult sitting with them at every mealtime it makes complete sense to introduce them to cups and sipping at this time.
When to expect it Anytime from 6 months, your baby or toddler can begin to master the ability to grasp an open cup, move it gently to their mouth, and successfully sip. You can hold it with her, then hover your hand nearby. It may take a matter of days or it may be a habit that grows over several months, but you’re there at mealtimes anyway so it really is a great opportunity to develop this ‘best for baby’ healthy habit. And like most things, her odds of completing each step successfully improve the more practice and guidance she gets. She’ll feel so proud and you will too.
Finger foods Self-feeding is a great complementary habit to learning sipping. Picking up finger foods and learning to hold a small cup both involve and encourage fine motor skills development. In turn, these pincer grasp practices can also aid other skills down the line, like holding a pencil and learning to write. 48 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
ABOUT Sara Keel: Babycup First Cups Sara is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood and Founder of Babycup ‘the little cup that’s kind to baby teeth’. Babycup First Cups are available from Ocado, JoJo Maman Bébé and branches of Waitrose. www.babycup.co.uk
How to get your baby interested Model behaviour is the key. We’re not talking catwalks here, but you are being watched! What you do has a big impact on your little pupil. Babies learn by mimic, so mealtimes are a great chance to model sipping by showing them how open cups are used. They’re looking and learning and they love to copy. Parents, carers, siblings, friends, sitting and sipping and sharing the moment can all go towards your baby learning well. Demonstrate to your little one how you pick up your cup and put it to your mouth.
‘spoutless technology’ (these generally have seals that are designed to lure you in on temptations of ‘no-spill’ rather than actually being best for baby or helping them learn to sip properly), and there’s no need for handles or valves. The child who learns to ride by using a balance bike, generally doesn’t need stabilisers when they move on. It’s the same with a cup. Little cups for little people mean no need for stabilisers. A mini open cup now, then later on down the line your child will be adept at using whatever you have in your kitchen cabinets.
Small and perfectly formed
Just a drop
It might sound obvious, but a cup that’s sized for the user is going to bring far more success than an oversized receptacle of gargantuan proportions! OK, not necessarily gargantuan, but many cups marketed as being for babies or toddlers are not much different in size to something an adult would use. Compare the proportions and put yourself in their shoes – would you want to learn to drink from something the size of a bucket? And putting the issues of cumbersome and heavy to one side, drinking from something that’s too wide for the mouth is never going to be easy. It spills down the cheeks, everyone is frustrated and it’s no wonder a lid goes straight back on. Also, steer away from claims of ‘free-flow’ spouts, (try it for yourself if you’re curious and see exactly what position you need to be in to get the liquid to truly free-flow!), avoid the temptation of miracle claims such as
Start with just a very small amount of liquid. This will help your little one get to grips with the sip technique and also means there’s not much to come out if there’s a spill! Spills are part of the learning process and involve far less liquid at this stage than spills of a child learning sipping later on.
Sip sip hooray! Forget the gadgets, ditch the gizmos, and opt for a BPA-free mini open baby cup. Healthy sipping, kind to baby teeth, and less mess in the long run. Cheers!
YUMMY MUMMY
Private GP Surgery
at Parkside Hospital P
arkside Hospital’s long-standing aim has always been to be your friendly local hospital on Wimbledon Common. An aim which is supported by over 300 specialist consultants, available to see you with little or no waiting. Recently they have further expanded their services and have introduced a new Private GP Surgery to meet the needs and requirements of the local community. As healthcare specialists with over 30 years of experience, they understand that when you are not quite feeling yourself or you have a healthcare worry, you want to be seen as quickly as possible and at a time convenient to you. This is even truer when it’s your little one that you’re worried about. To accommodate this demand they have launched a GP Surgery with a team of highly experienced GPs are available 6 days a week, with the ease of access to any tests, x-rays, diagnostic scans and onward referrals when required. And to make it that bit easier for you, they have a designated children’s waiting area complete with soft furnishings, books and a special Parkside Penguins colouring book for your child to take home. Parkside’s Private GP surgery is available to anyone, whether you’ve previously attended the hospital or not. The beauty of their Private GP consultation is that they offer you the choice and flexibility to access the service as a one-off or regularly, and offer more time to discuss your concerns. The Private GPs can provide all the medical care you would expect to receive from your NHS
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“The team of highly experienced GPs are available 6 days a week”
GP, with the additional reassurance that you will be seeing a highly experienced doctor for an appointment that will be confidential, convenient and not rushed. In addition any investigations, prescriptions or onward referrals to their specialist consultants can be conveniently completed under one roof. For more information or to book an appointment call 020 8971 8026 today.
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NO PAIN, NO GAIN? “You may find that you want more pain relief than you’d planned, or your doctor or midwife may suggest more effective pain relief to help the delivery”
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L
abour can be painful, so it’s important to learn about all the ways that you can relieve the agony. Write down your wishes in your birth plan, but remember that you should keep an open mind. You may find that you want more pain relief than you’d planned, or your doctor or midwife may suggest more effective pain relief to help the delivery.
Self-help in labour You will be more relaxed in labour and better placed to cope with the pain if you: • Learn about labour. This can make you feel more in control and less frightened about what’s going to happen. Talk to your midwife or doctor, and go to antenatal classes. • Learn how to relax, stay calm and breathe deeply. • Keep moving. Your position can make a difference, so try kneeling, walking around or rocking backwards and forwards. • Bring a partner, friend or relative to support you during labour, if not, your midwife will give you all the support you need. • Have a bath.
Gas and air for labour
This is a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide gas. Gas and air won’t remove all the pain, but it can help to reduce it and make it more bearable. Many women like it because it’s easy to use and they control it themselves. You breathe in the gas and air through a mask or mouthpiece, which you hold yourself. You’ll probably practise using the mask or mouthpiece if you go to an antenatal class. The gas takes about 15-20 seconds to work, so you breathe it in just as a contraction begins. It works best if you take slow, deep breaths. If gas and air doesn’t give you enough pain relief, you can ask for a painkilling injection as well.
Pethidine injections in labour Another form of pain relief is the intramuscular injection (into the muscle of your thigh or buttock) of a drug, such as pethidine or, less commonly, diamorphine. The injection can also help you to relax, which can lessen the pain. It takes about 20 minutes to work after the injection, and the effects last between 2-4 hours.
Epidurals An epidural is a special type of local anaesthetic. It numbs the nerves that carry the pain impulses from the birth canal to the brain. For most women, an epidural gives complete pain relief. It can be helpful for women who are having a long or particularly painful labour, or who are becoming distressed. An anaesthetist is the only person who can give an epidural, so it won’t be available if you give birth at home. If you think you might want one, check whether anaesthetists are always available at your hospital. How much you can move your legs after en epidural depends on the local anaesthetic used. Some units offer “mobile” epidurals, which means you can walk around. However, this also requires the baby’s heart rate to be monitored remotely (by telemetry) and many units don’t have the equipment to do this. Ask your midwife if mobile epidural is available in your local unit. An epidural can provide very good pain relief, but it’s not always 100% effective in labour. The Obstetric Anaesthetists Association estimates that
one in eight women who have an epidural during labour need to use other methods of pain relief.
Water births Water can help you relax and make the contractions seem less painful. Ask if you can have a bath or use a birth pool. The water will be kept at a comfortable temperature but not above 37.5C, and your temperature will be monitored.
TENS machines This stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Some hospitals have TENS machines. If not, you can hire your own machine. TENS has not been shown to be effective during the active phase of labour (when contractions get longer, stronger and more frequent). It’s probably most effective during the early stages, when many women experience low back pain. TENS may also be useful while you’re at home in the early stages of labour or if you plan to give birth at home. If you’re interested in TENS, learn how to use it in the later months of your pregnancy. Ask your midwife to show you how it works..
Alternative methods of labour pain relief Some women prefer to avoid the types of pain relief listed, and choose alternative treatments such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy, hypnosis, massage and reflexology. Most of these techniques are not proven to provide effective pain relief. If you’d like to use any of these methods, it’s important to discuss them with your midwife or doctor and let the hospital know beforehand. Most hospitals don’t offer them for pain relief during labour
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back to
school – Everything you need to be prepared for starting, or going back to, school – i mage : how to c reat e a c h i l d ge n i u s
YUMMY MUMMY
GO BACK TO SCHOOL IN STYLE
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t’s almost back-to-school time! As much as we adore our little cherubs, some of us parents are being driven crazy by the long holidays and counting down the days until we can lovingly deposit them by the school gates. But to paraphrase a wise man/woman/ internet meme, with great back-to-school joy comes great responsibility. Yep. That means new uniforms, hats, shoes, books, pencils… So you’ve just spent precious time and a small fortune buying new things for school. The last thing you need is for those things to go missing, therefore undoing all your hard work and creating even more hard work (and unnecessary expenditure) as you struggle to replace them. This is where Stuck on You comes in. As the name label experts, our mission is to help your family avoid the pains and costs of lost property – especially at back-to-school time! Why are our name labels so awesome? • They stick and stay stuck to just about anything. • They come in a variety of shapes and sizes for all things great and small. • They allow your child’s belongings to stand out from the crowd and be readily identifiable if misplaced. • They are loved by kids, creating an extra motivation for them not to lose their things! For uniforms and other pieces of clothing, we have our durable Iron On Clothing Labels which embed into the weave of the fabric. For a semipermanent solution, you can also use Stick On Clothing Labels – if you’re in a rush one morning, simply stick them on then iron/sew down later when there’s more time. All of our clothing labels are laundry safe.
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We also have Shoe Labels, which can withstand sweating and rubbing, and come with adorable L-R markings to help kids tell left from right. For other school gear, we have Name Labels for stationery, lunchboxes, drink bottles.. you name it! These labels are waterproof, scratch-resistant and dishwasher/microwave/freezer safe. If your child has a food allergy/sensitivity, check out our Allergy Labels which convey quick and vivid information to help keep your child safe. Need a variety of labels? Consider our Value Packs to cover a few bases in one hit! For example, the 5+ School Labels Pack includes labels of various types, sizes and shapes, perfect for your first-day-of-school/back-to-school needs. We don’t just do labels. We also have a wide range of other personalised products that kids will love – stationery, bags, drink bottles, lunchboxes (including our bestselling Bento Box range) and much more! Interested? Simply hop onto www.stuckonyou. uk, pick and preview your products then sit back as we deliver them straight to your door. Easy!
“As the name label experts, our mission is to help your family avoid the pains and costs of lost property – especially at back-to-school time!”
YUMMY MUMMY
PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR THEIR First Day At School
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ou might be taking the children on holiday this summer but if your child is starting at their first school in September, the butterflies for you, and your child will start now. If you know of prospective classmates, meet up over the summer familiar faces on day one will help. Your child’s first day at school is a big milestone. Yes, your little baby is no more - you’ve now got a school child on your hands! Starting school means a lot of changes for both you and your child, and it is perfectly understandable to have concerns. You’ve probably been working hard to reassure your child that school will be exciting and fun. But you may not feel so confident yourself. Don’t brush these thoughts under the carpet. Starting school is just as important a change for you as it is for your child. So, with just weeks to go before hordes of newlyuniformed four-year-olds pass through classroom doors for the first time, what can parents do to prepare their children, and limit the potential for tears – theirs and yours – on the big day? • There is plenty you can do to help your child adjust to new groups of people - a group activity 58 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
such as a music or dance class. Story time sessions at your local library provide a great opportunity for your child to meet others of a similar age. Or simply take her to your local park, it’s an easy way for her to interact with children, big and small, that she hasn’t come across before. • Teach your child ‘life’ skills like getting dressed and undressed, using the toilet independently, washing their hands and putting things away – every little bit of independence helps. • Play ‘schools’. Take turns in being the teacher and the pupil. Practice saying ‘bye bye’ to Mummy and Daddy at the gate. Keep these games short and fun. • Involve them. Let them help choose ‘school stuff ’ like their backpack or pencil case. Label everything with their name – let them ‘help’ by suggesting where to write it or handing you the pens. • Discuss your own happy memories of school (providing you have some!). Perhaps mention games you played at break time or how much you liked your first teacher.
“As you say goodbye on your child’s first day, it may be hard not to shed a tear. If you do have a cry, try not to let your child see. It may make them anxious that you are sad”
• Get them into a routine that’s compatible with school hours. They might need an earlier bedtime and waking up time. Move towards the new routine over a few days rather than starting it suddenly the day before. • As you say goodbye on your child’s first day, it may be hard not to shed a tear. If you do have a cry, try not to let your child see. It may make them anxious that you are sad. • Even distressed children soon settle into school. If you are worried, ask your child’s teacher or teaching assistant about strategies they use to help children settle. • If you want to find out more about your child’s school world, get involved. Many schools encourage parents to help with reading, cookery or a school trip. • Put a special treat in their lunchbox – lots of kids love to have a little note from Mum as well. You will be excited to see your child at the end of his school day, but don’t overwhelm him with questions. Although you’re desperate to know how it went, try to keep your questions simple. Ask who he sat next to at lunch, rather than a run-down of your child’s day. Don’t worry if your child says “I don’t know”, or I can’t remember”. He’s had a lot to take in on his first day. Be prepared for your house to feel empty and quiet during the school hours. Focus on the extra time you now have for yourself… join a health club, meet up with friends for lunch or join a mother’s club – these will all help to keep you busy during the school day. Just be rest assured that your child’s school will support your child and help them to feel a valued participant in school life. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 59
YUMMY MUMMY
Pack a healthy lunchbox T hanks to Jamie Oliver, school dinners are a lot healthier these days. Getting children enjoying healthy food from an early age is the way to help them eat well for the rest of their lives. It’s just as important to make sure the lunchbox your child takes to school provides as healthy and balanced a lunch as what they would eat at home.
This means plenty of foods that contain the nutrients that children need, and fewer foods high in sugar and saturated fat. If you prefer to send your child off to school with a guaranteed healthy lunch, don’t be tempted to give them ‘treats’ that will only make them pine for more!! Make their lunchbox look fun and inviting as well as including all the nutrients they need.
Starchy foods are a good source of energy and should make up a third of the lunchbox. But don’t let things get boring. Instead of sandwiches, give kids bagels, pitta bread, wraps and baguettes. Use brown, wholemeal or seeded bread, not white bread.
Save chocolate and cakes for occasional treats. Remember to praise your child when they’ve tried something new to show your encouragement.
Image: www..anotherlunch.com
Preparing your child’s lunchbox A balanced packed lunch should contain: • Starchy foods – these are bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and others • Protein foods – including meat, fish, eggs, beans and others • A dairy item – this could be cheese or a yoghurt • Vegetables or salad and a portion of fruit
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Low-fat snacks for kids • Children often like food they can eat with their fingers, so chop up raw veggies such as carrots or peppers and give them hummus or cottage cheese to dip the veggies in. • Breadsticks and wholemeal crackers are great finger foods that can be spread with low-fat soft cheese or eaten with reduced-fat cheddar and pickles. • Include fresh fruit - vary the fruit each day and get them to try new things, such as kiwi or melon. • You could also make up a tasty fruit salad. Be inventive and encourage your children when they try something new.
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How to create a child genius L
ondon parents are upping their game in pursuit of the perfect report card. From philosophy programmes to bilingual nurseries, we offer a guide for modern tiger parents. As every London parent knows, your child is an extension of your personality: your little ambassador in the world. It’s not enough to hope that your children will be happy and well-adjusted. You need them to be happy, well-adjusted and much cleverer than the other children you know. That magical phrase ‘gifted and talented’ on the report card is so much classier than turning up at the school gates in Armani jeans and an Audi Q6. All this may look like middle-class oneupmanship masquerading as parental love, but let’s be honest: there is no greater love. We’re alchemising our own insecurities into the parenting rocket fuel that means our children will never have to suffer such insecurities themselves. Want to build a child genius? Then swot up on this...
SCHMOOZE OR LOSE Katie Hopkins left the nation aghast after declaring she wouldn’t let her children associate with kids named Charmaine, Chardonnay or Tyler. Nevertheless, ambitious parents do vet their kids’ pals. Perfect manners and a reading age of 15? Good playmate. Chews exercise books and likes setting things on fire? Discouraged. Hence Maggie & Rose, the UK’s first private members’ clubs for kids, with two branches in West London. Members can enjoy endless soft play, cookery classes, dance classes — and excellent social opportunities.
as Reading Raven are engaging ways to get children into the world of words.
TUNE IN Studies consistently prove that children who learn music show greater increases in IQ than those who don’t; research has shown that listening to Mozart produces a measurable increase in spatial reasoning. So seek out an instrument that will nourish your darling son or daughter’s mind and soul, and make your home intolerable during practice time.
DOUBLE UP Most London schools are attended by children who speak many languages. Naïve parents might think this is a good way for their child to pick up a few foreign words. Wrong. Instead, you want to aim for a nursery where they speak two languages deliberately, rather than lots by accident. French never hurts, and there’s a good number of French bilingual nurseries in London. To be extra chic, brave the waiting list for a place at the Azbuka Foundation’s Russian nursery in Richmond.
THINK OR SINK
OK COMPUTER
What could be more important than a five-year-old getting special help dealing with the things that are most fundamental to the history of Western thought. Most tots are struggling with whether ‘i’ comes before ‘e’. Get yours worrying instead about whether existence comes before essence. The P4C Co-operative (philosophy for children) — a worldwide educational movement launched in 1972 by the American professor Matthew Lipman — offers, for a modest subscription (£35), a range of philosophy-teaching online resources for kids.
The modern parent hip to Steven Johnson’s Everything Bad is Good for You, knows that not all video games don’t rot the brain: they give it an IQraising cognitive workout. Look at the brilliant way digital publishers such as Nosy Crow incorporate problem-solving into storytelling, while apps such
Drama lessons are very important for building confidence, imaginative play, empathy and those healthy feelings of hating six-year-old Amelia because she beat you to Cordelia in the school
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ACT UP
production of King Lear, so you ended up having to play Goneril. It’s tough out there: best get them used to it early. The media yummy mummies of Crouch End swear by Perform and its high-energy productions: each term builds to a full ensemble performance, backed by bespoke apps and a swishy online costume shop.
LEARN THROUGH PLAY There’s oodles of research supporting it. Chess, of course, teaches basic game theory and pattern recognition. And Scrabble offers vocabulary and simple maths. But bridge, as well as being an opportunity for parents and children to bond, encourages complicated strategic thought, memory and communication skills. Andrew Robson’s bridge club in Fulham does children’s lessons.
TEST TASTES As they say in computer science: garbage in, garbage out. It’s all very well making sure that your children eat well at home, but what about when they’re with other children? Unless your child is properly trained, they could easily be tempted to accept Haribo Tangfastics, Dairylea Triangles or worse. So educate your progeny early to question the provenance of food — a friend’s child, for instance, politely declines supermarket sausages and expresses a preference for Parmesan over cheddar.
HOMEWORK IT Everyone knows that the key to learning is partnership. It’s no use leaving your little darling to struggle through writing a poem or drawing a dinosaur without guidance — especially when he/ she thinks Triceratops and Trilobites lived at the same time and were both pink, or that one sentence in two merits an exclamation mark. Here’s the chance for your child to watch — little brain soaking it all in like a sponge — as you build a diorama of a PreCambrian habitat or correct that dear little sonnet from Shakespearean to Petrarchan.
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YUMMY MUMMY
TOP OF THE CLASS
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eat those back to school blues with Becky & Lolo as we enter the summer season with our colourful and diverse range of back to school essentials. From personalised backpacks to our must have stationary sets, we have something for every child! Here at Becky & Lolo, we understand how little one’s dread going back to school after enjoying the summer holidays. So, lets throw out the old pencil shavings, worn out rubbers and broken pen lids and start fresh with our diverse range of children’s stationery. Store your children’s school treasures in our colourful and fun collection of pencil cases and desk organisers. Walk the plank with our pirate themed stationery or tell a tale with our Roald Dahl themed stationery kits, we have something for every little learner. Give your child something extra special for the start of term with our funky range of personalised backpacks. Choose from our wonderful collection of animal, fairy, nautical and transportation themed designs. With an embroidered named stitched onto the bag flap, our gorgeous collection of personalised backpacks are perfect for those little ones who love to set the trend! Don’t forget to check out our wide collection of children’s
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backpacks and satchels, perfect gifts for back to school! Encourage your children to eat healthy packed lunches with our fun range of lunch bags and lunch boxes. We have a number of different styles for both boys and girls! From lunch boxes with zipped compartments, to mesh bottle holders, we offer a unique range of lunch bags and lunch boxes which will keep your children’s lunch and snacks cool and fresh for longer. Let your little one set the trend with our fashionable style of PE bags. Personalised for that special touch, our drawstring PE bags are perfect for storing PE kits and swimming gear. We offer a wide range of personalised and non personalisable PE bags with a number of colourful and eye catching designs- perfect for standing out from the crowd. Join us as we prepare for back to school with our fantastic money saving offers and latest products by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We have hundreds of different gifts and back to school essentials to get your little one’s ready for the start of term. Stay unique, stay colourful. www.beckyandlolo.co.uk
“Personalised for that special touch, our drawstring PE bags are perfect for storing PE kits and swimming gear”
FAMILY LIFE – We’ve got everything covered from kids’ fashion to top parenting tips – i mage : S O U Z U
YUMMY MUMMY
Sophie Ellis-Bextor:
My 6 top tips for happy parenting WORDS: Gabrielle Fagan, Press Association
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ophie Ellis-Bextor knows all about the juggling act of life as a busy, working parent - but she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I love our busy, chaotic, noisy household with my boisterous boys,” says Sophie, 38, who’s balanced her music career with raising four boys - Sonny, 13, Kit, 8, Ray, 5, and Jesse, 17 months - alongside her husband, The Feeling basist Richard Jones. “I don’t think there are any rules for parenting, you just have to do what feels right for you and your children, but I talk a lot to my mum (former Blue Peter presenter, Janet Ellis) and friends, and we share what works and what doesn’t.” The singer (she released her sixth album, aptly-named Familia, last year) has teamed up with Pampers, as an ambassador for the Preemie Protection range for premature babies - a cause close to her heart, as two of her own boys were born early.
Here, Sophie reveals her guide to positive parenting... TALK IT THROUGH “I’m quite tight on the boundaries of how we talk to each other in the family. I emphasise the importance of us being kind to people and to each other, and if I ever feel they’re not being kind or respectful, I’ll ask, ‘Is that really how we talk to each other? That’s not really how we should be’. “Mealtimes are an important time for me to sit down with the boys and look them 68 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
in the eye when they’re telling me how they are. I ask lots of questions about what’s going on and if anything’s bothering them. It helps me keep on top of stuff that’s happening in their lives.”
GETTING THEM TO BEHAVE “I’m a big fan of talking things through with children as I don’t think shouting works - unless it’s spontaneous and stops them from running into danger. “I don’t think there’s a ‘one-size-fits-all’ on discipline. For instance, my eldest boy Sonny, responded really well if I told him off, as he didn’t like getting into trouble, but his younger brother, Kit, wasn’t so bothered at one point. I had to get him to understand he could own a consequence. “I explained that when he made a decision and a good thing happened or he ended up in someone’s bad books, then he’d chosen the route that got that result. I think it helps kids still feel they’re in control if you show them there are alternatives, negative and positive, they can consider.” All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout
The mum of four ‘boisterous boys’ reveals her tricks of the trade.
“It’s OK to be a bit selfish and enjoy time with your partner sometimes”
ENCOURAGE HEALTHY EATING “My mum brought me up to eat healthily and she never used the word ‘diet’. I want my boys to have a good relationship with their bodies and the food they’re eating, so I’ve always explained about where food comes from, and how a burger or whatever comes to be on their plate. “Sometimes we’ll cook together or they’ll watch Richard and I preparing a meal for ourselves for later and they’ll ask questions and try a bit, so they learn to experiment with tastes. With four kids with different likes and dislikes, I try to cater to them but I won’t cook separate meals for each - that would be too time-consuming.”
KEEPING THEM SAFE ONLINE “My attitude to social media is to walk sideby-side with my kids as they explore it. I think there’s wonderful stuff on the internet and it’s a misapprehension that kids are looking for bad stuff. My 8-year-old, for instance, isn’t trying to find things which could confuse him or are too grown up.
“Generally, I make sure when he’s on the web I’m in the room with him, either watching stuff with him or playing a game like Minecraft, which keeps me involved and in touch with what he’s seeing.”
GET THEM OUTDOORS “We have a house rule of always doing something active outdoors once a day at the weekends, whether it’s a walk around the park, swimming, or a ball game. It’s also fun exploring new places. I think it helps relax them, and then they’re more than happy to get home and play with their toys or watch a movie.”
TAKE TIME FOR YOU AS A COUPLE “It’s OK to be a bit selfish and enjoy time with your partner sometimes. My kids respond really positively to seeing Richard and I enjoying each other’s company. I think they really like the fact we’re happy, and that happiness kind of radiates outwards. So give yourselves permission to enjoy yourselves together and let them see you as people.” Sophie Ellis-Bextor is ambassador for the Pampers Preemie Protection range for premature babies. Visit www.pampers.co.uk
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SOUZU brings together a unique collection of children’s gifts, toys, clothes and accessories, which combined with a commitment to excellent customer service makes the SOUZU experience special.
SUMMER WITH SOUZU – SO SPECIAL!
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ummer brings images of sunshine, relaxing and the outdoors. However, as everyone in the UK knows all too well, this isn’t often the case! With more than a decade of experience working with parents and children at an OFSTED graded ‘Outstanding’ early years nursery school in London, the knowledge and experience of working with babies and children across all seasons has given SOUZU a unique understanding of the choice of products best suited for your child. SOUZU’s summer collection in particular is a case in point. Featuring high quality swim and beach wear form Elizabeth Hurley, Snapper Rock and Toby Tiger to name just a few, everything is within reach for the summer suitcase, whether it be a Turquoise One Piece, Alien Rash Vest, or Red Star Sun Hat. With quality footwear form Castell and tops ands t-shirts from the likes of Frugi and Darcy Brown, the summer outfit can be a complete as a bright sunny day. Should summer take a turn for the worse, then there’s no reason for your children to stay in doors. In fact with colour changing raincoats and umbrellas from Squid London and Holly & Beau, a rainy day can be as fun as the rest of them! Finish it off with colourful rainboots from Hatley and you never know, you might want Autumn to come sharpish. Sure enough, come rain sun or snow, SOUZU has all you need for your children’s clothing needs, whatever the season. For more details visit www.souzu.co.uk Telephone 0208 780 0025 Email souzu@souzu.co.uk
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“Featuring high quality swim and beach wear form Elizabeth Hurley, Snapper Rock and Toby Tiger to name just a few, everything is within reach for the summer suitcase”
YUMMY MUMMY
Get your kids active through exercise I
t’s never been more important to get children active. With use of the internet, mobile phones and computer games, this has resulted in lower levels of activity in children – which could potentially set them up for health problems later in life. That’s why kids need to get more active. There are plenty of activities that the whole family can get involved in which the kids will love (and parents too!). These will set a great example and contribute to keeping your children fit, active, and most importantly, healthy. Here are some top tips on getting your kids active through exercise….
Park life Whether it’s going on the swings and slides, or going for a walk followed by having an ice lolly, young children love the park. It has many places to explore and they can run around to their hearts content. It’s also free – which makes it an even more attractive option!
Activity trip Family days out such as visiting the zoo or a similar attraction usually involve an entire day walking around. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise, and is a beneficial cardiovascular activity for children and adults alike. So, a Saturday family day out can also be a Saturday family workout!
Fun run A fun run is a non-competitive opportunity for the family to exercise together and usually comes with a medal at the end. Children love rewards, which will be a great incentive for them to participate. There are many charity events that cater for the whole family, and the kids will learn about charities helping 72 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
those less fortunate.
School Activities There are many after school clubs that run activities for all ages, whether it be tennis, athletics or hockey, there’s certain to be something to interest your children – and organisers are always looking for helpers to marshal, coach, and generally help out, so there are plenty of opportunities for the entire family to be involved.
On your bike Cycling is a fantastic, fun-filled activity, and is adaptable to every age. If your children are very young, they can either sit in a special trailer or be strapped into seats on the adults’ bikes.
Walking The simplest of all exercise activities, it is good exercise and can be pitched at every age level. Even the youngest kid can toddle a short way. Decide where to make the walk more interesting to your children.
Swimming Playing in a pool is ideal for a family workout, and you’ll find that the kids will love jumping in and out all day! Swimway offer excellent swimming courses across London teaching children from baby upwards to feel comfortable in the water, to paddle and then to swim. You are right there with them, and with trained instructors they will be perfectly safe. With a little thought and planning, there are plenty of opportunities to get the kids active through exercise, with the additional benefit of some quality family time together!
WHERE FUNCTION MEETS STYLE
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he team at Little Folks Furniture have been designing, manufacturing and supplying furniture for the nursery and for children for more than 25 years. But we are no less passionate about what we do and how we do it. We understand the importance of giving children an inspirational and fun space in which to sleep and grow up – but it should also be safe and comfortable. We’ve crammed everything we know into our designs and they’ve been made with care and quality front of mind. We even have our own “test house” where we can “bish bash bosh” our furniture again and again to make sure it works. For the past few years it’s all been about “solutions” in children’s rooms but if there are any particular attributes that are coming through at the moment then it is about comfort – a place where it is “comfortable” to hang out – and the sleepover option. On the aesthetic side the trend is towards simplicity - standalone pieces (but with some inherent clever solutions); and a noticeable range of refined paint colours in demand. There has been a resurgence in traditional bunk beds and where the bottom bunk is used during the day as a “sofa”/chilling/living area – with or without mates - and the top bunk is the cosy (and safe) bed space. Obviously it does the job of sleepover solution too. There are more and more “cheap” bunks on the market and it is noticeable how much of this type of product would not meet safety standards (you need to be wary of high beds on bunks and high sleepers) but anyway the
trend we observe is back to more solid designs with “performance built in”. This includes bunks “splitting down” into two, proper single beds which may be a preference when the kids are older. Add to this a range of sophisticated but durable paint finishes such as Farleigh Grey and Painswick Blue and you have really smart pieces of furniture reflecting the interiors trends. We think choice is important too and in contrast have produced some simple, elegant contemporary designs and where we combine white with solid oak and oak veneers or smart, statement colours that will stand the test of time. Perfect for the “loft conversion” aesthete. Nothing is sacrificed on specification of the beds however and the underlying quality and durability is consistent. High sleepers are an evolution of the bunks and where the lower bed is replaced by a combination of features such as large desks, comfortable chairs (which combine as sleepover beds), desk and chair sets etc. The strength and performance of the bed frame is critical however, and we deliberately chose to stay with solid wood frames and proper mortice and tenon jointing in our product. These will definitely stand the test of time, right down to futon chair bed is supplied with a proper mattress rather than foam cushions. We believe we have taken the stress out of choosing inspirational and safe beds for children – combining our years of experience and expertise with the demands of style and function from the parent – and the child! www.littlefolksfurniture.co.uk
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The New Suitcase Essential
Introducing Palmaira Sandals range of ethically sourced, lovingly handcrafted Avarca Sandals, made for mummies and their minis.
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almaira Sandals offer the traditional Avarca sandal with a fashion forward twist by using gorgeous fabrics and textured leathers, like bright block neon leather, metallic glitter, and zebra pony skin. Twin up and match your little ones with a dedicated range of mummy and mini styles, starting from size EU16 (0-3 months). It was in 2012, having lived in Menorca for much of their lives that sisters Lisa and Tracey went into their local Avarca sandal factory on the island and ordered their first collection to be sent out to the UK. They had both worn the handmade, authentic Menorcan sandals for decades and noticing a gap in the market for these traditional shoes to be given a new lease of life, the sisters set up a website and a pop up shop at Spitalfield Market and saw their little homegrown business thrive into a sartorial fashion essential. “We had no idea it would take off like it did,” says Lisa. “The response we had for the women’s sandals in our designs was phenomenal. Having growing families of our own, Tracey and I decided to include children’s sandals into our collections. The rest, as they say, is history”. Over the last five years Palmaira Sandals have become a summer essential worn by mummies and their little ones all over the world.
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“Over the last five years Palmaira Sandals have become a summer essential worn by mummies and their little ones all over the world”
There are many imitations, but only sandals made on the Spanish Island, and have the ‘product of Menorca’ stamp, can be called Avarcas. Palmaira Sandals have a close working relationship with their small independent factories, ensuring they maintain the highest quality in workmanship and fabrics whilst supporting a truly ethical and individual product. Team up Leopard Print Palmaira’s with skinny jeans and Breton tee for that classic Riviera look. Or for beach chic go for a pair of Palmaira’s Metallic Silver sandals with a kaftan to see you through from dawn until dusk. There is a Metallic Silver Hook and Loop style for the little ones to match up with Mama. There are plenty of styles for the boys too, like classic Navy Leather or Natural Stone Leather. As a fashion icon, Palmaira Sandals are again set to be this year’s suitcase essential. Flat, lightweight and easy to pack they wont take up too much room in your bag, which means more space for the rest of your wardrobe. Palmaira’s are just the perfect flat for mummies, mummies to be, little ones to big ones and a great addition to any summer wardrobe. Check out the website www.palmairasandals.com to see the full range.
Handmade Leather Sandals www.palmairasandals.com
YUMMY MUMMY
sleep like a princeSS with hypoallergenic stuffing and the certified fabrics are washable. Whisbear is also designed to meet the SIDS prevention guidelines and for that reason it can be attached to the cot with the magnets safely sewn in the Bear’s paws.
So much love from one small Bear
W
hile founding Whisbear the Humming Bear 3 years ago Zuzanna and Julia Sielicki would never have believed that one day their cuddly sleep aid would make Kate Middleton joke about having more babies. Yummy Mummy checked what’s so special about this innovative, multi award winning sleep aid. “Sitting on a bathroom floor, cuddling my upset, colicky baby boy to the tune of an overheated hair drier I knew things had to change” - recalls Zuzanna, Whisbears co-owner. Now, years later Whisbear is our 6th baby and the only one that helps with crying rather than cries itself,” jokes her sister Julia who co-runs the company.
What’s that (white) noise all about? Silence is not a natural environment for the new-born. The womb is in fact a very noisy place and baby can hear a whole orchestra of different inner and outer sounds there. That’s why gentle and constant white noise emitted by Whisbear’s shushing device is so effective with soothing babies. Healthy sleep is crucial for babies’ development but so many things can unnecessarily disturb baby’s sleep” says Julia. “Therefore we are the first European company that introduced an innovative and multi award winning CRYSensor.” The name says it all – the sensor activates the soothing sounds as soon as it recognizes baby’s cry to bring the peaceful sleep back. The creators of Whisbear constantly consult their ideas with midwives and paediatricians to create the safest solution for new families. As the cuddly Bear is designed to be suitable form birth, for the babies’ safety it is filled 78 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
Whisbear was designed to help new parents with the biggest struggle – lack of sleep. Whisbear supports parents with establishing the night time routine and extending the sleep time. But when the Baby is ready to play it is also great sensory toy – says Julia Sielicki. Different fabrics and rustling elements encourage sensory and fine motor development. Babies love playing with the Bear!
The Bear ROYAL After only 3 years Whisbear is now present in over 130 thousand homes around the world and this now includes the Palace! The sisters met the Royal Couple in July during their visit in Warsaw. “It was absolutely overwhelming when the Duchess expressed her gratitude for sending one of Whisbears to Kensington Palace when Princess Charlotte was born. We were thrilled by the fact that both – the Duchess and Prince William loved the idea of Whisbear” www.whisbear.co.uk
“It was absolutely overwhelming when the Duchess expressed her gratitude for sending one of Whisbears to Kensington Palace when Princess Charlotte was born”
YUMMY MUMMY
“Staying fit and healthy is so much easier if we make moving around just a regular part of every day”
Stress-busters
for busy mums By Abi Jackson
STRETCH IT OUT Yoga aficionados are well aware of its power to both calm and revive, and even taking a short time-out to practice a few moves could prove transformative. “If there’s one thing I can encourage all mums to do, it would be a little yoga. It is so readily available all you need is a little space - and incredibly effective for head, heart and body,” says psychologist and yoga teacher Suzy Reading (suzyreading.co.uk), also mum to five-year-old Charlotte and 18-month-old Teddy. “Stretching out releases physical tension, and (for mums with young kids especially) having that tool kit they can turn to helps to get self-care on the agenda, and an awareness of how important it is that they nourish themselves. Yoga’s the perfect tonic for lack of sleep and the relentless nature of motherhood,” Reading adds. “It also opens up the body to receive a more complete breath (which
helps achieve a relaxed state of mind). Try a few mountain breaths and feel the positive effect on your outlook and quality of mind.”
STEP TO IT It’d be easy to think a short walk isn’t worth the effort, but don’t underestimate the power of taking a quick breather - in every sense of the word. Staying fit and healthy is so much easier if we make moving around just a regular part of every day, but even the short burst of physical activity, coupled with filling your lungs with fresh air, the change of scenery and the chance to switch off, think and reboot the mind, could work wonders for stress levels.
TIME FOR TEA Far more than merely a means for staying hydrated, the simple act of making tea can serve as a muchneeded pause in a demanding day. Choose a tea that taps into your needs and moods for extra benefits. If you need to keep your energy high, jasmine tea is a good choice, and chamomile is the all-time best calming and soothing tea; almost sedative in its effect.
TUNE IN Struggle to truly tune out? Maybe tuning in is the answer - lots of experts agree that learning the art of meditation can take time - and effort. If you’re not ‘there’, how about taking a musicalmediation break? Either put on the stereo or pop some headphones in, lie or sit down, close your eyes and let your senses completely engage with the sounds. Breathing more slowly and deeply will come more naturally, meaning a greater sense of relaxation throughout the day. 80 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
TRIED AND TESTED 3 of the best... wellbeing-boosting bath salts
Westlab Calming And Relaxing Magnesium Flakes It’s believed that lots of us are low in magnesium. As well as being soothing for a range of dry skin conditions, adding these magnesium flakes to your bath can help counteract modern-life stress, helping your prepare for a restful and reviving night’s sleep. £8.99 (westlabsalts.co.uk) Dead Sea Aromatherapy Bath Salts with Frankincense Soak up the legendary muscle and stress-soothing benefits of the Dead Sea from the comfort of your own bathroom. Frankincense oil and rose petals add an additional calming and luxurious touch to this timeless blend. £6.85 (www.boots.com) Himalayan Salt Natural Mineral Bathing Remedy Relaxing the mind, soothing the nervous system, detoxifying the body and aiding sleep... is there anything this wonder salt can’t do? No wonder it’s known in the Himalayas as ‘white gold’. from £5.99 (himalayansalt. co.uk)
14 Cale street London SW3 3QU United Kingdom 020 759 00999 www.amaiakids.co.uk
YUMMY MUMMY
Every child deserves a family…
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n England over 4,000 children are waiting for loving adoptive parents. They are a range of ages, from a variety of backgrounds. What they have in common is a difficult start in life and that they can no longer be brought up by their birth families. All these children need a loving, stable home. They need parents who will stick by them through the good times and the bad. They need support and love to help them overcome their troubled backgrounds, make sense of who they are and grow up to be safe and secure. Adoption is a way of providing a permanent family for children. Parenting adopted children, whilst presenting unique challenges, can be extremely rewarding. If you are able to offer love, commitment, time, patience and the motivation to want to understand how your child sees the world, then that is a great start and the rewards will be limitless. It may be that you have a wish to be a parent but fertility issues mean that you cannot have a birth child. Or you may already have a family but feel you still have space for another child. Or you may be single and feel that you have masses of love, security and happiness to offer to a child who has not had a great start in life and/or has ongoing challenges. Or you may have adopted and are thinking of adopting again. Whether you are married or single, divorced or living with a partner, gay or straight, unemployed or disabled, and whatever your cultural background adoption may be for you.
What does it take to be an adoptive parent? Adoptive parents need the same qualities as any other parent. Adoption offers children the love, stability and security of family life they may not 82 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
“Adoption is a way of providing a permanent family for children. Parenting adopted children, whilst presenting unique challenges, can be extremely rewarding”
have experienced before. Have confidence that you have what it takes! You will need to give your adopted child(ren) lots of individual time, understanding and support. Children who experience unmet physical and emotional needs early in life can have their later development adversely affected, perhaps requiring different parenting techniques to a birth child. That may sound daunting but there is plenty of support available, via your agency and voluntary support agencies. On a practical level, you will need to be able to support a child financially, though you don’t have to be a millionaire or even be a homeowner. You can apply for tax credits to supplement your income when you adopt, and other financial help may also be available in the form of one-off or regular payments. When you first adopt, one partner will be expected to take time off work for between six and twelve months to help the child settle in. Your child will also need your ongoing support to help them understand about their birth family and why they were adopted. You will need to be able to help discuss their history with them in a respectful way and highlight the positives in their past. Where it is in their best interests there may be ongoing contact with the child’s birth family. This can involve anything from occasional meetings with birth family members or ‘letterbox’ contact once or twice a year. As an adoptive parent, you will need to support your child with whatever arrangements are agreed for contact with their birth family. Adoption is a lifelong commitment requiring skill, empathy, energy, patience – and a sense of humour! But there can be no greater reward than transforming a child’s life forever and building a happy, fulfilled family. Adoption transforms the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in society.