Absolutely Mama September 2019

Mama S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • I S S U E 32

The Magazine for Stylish Mums

HAPPY EATERS Simple recipes for the whole family to enjoy

Season’s

CHANGE Autumn style for mamas and minis

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BIRTH

PLAN Taking control like a feminist

School COOL

HEADING BACK TO CLASS IN STYLE

MAKING A FAMILY JOURNEYS TO PARENTHOOD

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Who knew it took 143 years to make a babygrow?

Silver Cross Clothing

Available at:

silvercrossbaby.com

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mama WELCOME

contents SEPTEMBER 2019

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98

79

18

8

60

AGENDA What’s On

32 Making a Family

64 Your Birth, Your Way

FASHION 38 Autumn Turn

HOME & INTERIORS 70 Nursery Notes

ESSENTIALS 20 Tot Gear

48 Kids Fashion Notes

72 Two Sisters

MAMAHOOD 26 Woman in Work

50 All Together Now

RESOURCES 87 Word Up

12

Arts and entertainment for the month ahead

14

New Books

September’s best new releases

Key kit to make parenting easier

Natasha Pilbrow on launching beauty service app LeSalon

ON THE COVER: @hatchgal hatchcollection.com

28 Insta Mama

Tru White on family life in Texas and her clothing business

Michael Johnson-Ellis on his journey to parenthood

Easy pieces for an autumn pregancy and beyond from Hatch

Th e best looks and launches for little ones

Discover the Yellow Submarine with Stella McCartney Kids

WELLNESS 60 Happy Eaters

Family-friendly recipes from Piccolo

How to make a birth plan like a feminist

Beautiful decor and furniture for your little one’s space

Decorating for siblings with Th e Modern Nursery

Penpal fun with Banjo Robinson

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What’s Wrong?

Coming to terms with the fact your child is wired diff erently

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mama WELCOME MAMA BEAUTY P. 66

Editor’s

LETTER

MAMA STYLE P. 36

INTERIORS TOUR P. 72

F

eminism. I spent my girlhood divided about the concept. Yes, I was all for supporting my sisters, but no, I didn’t really fancy morphing into the much maligned militant stereotype of decades past. And then I realised that it was much less about not shaving your armpits (not if you didn’t want to anyway) and more about everyone being equal. Even the males in my life could be feminists too.

The desire to lift-up and empower women is something that links all of the amazing mamas in this issue. Milli Hill, the author of ‘Give Birth Like a Feminist’, explains how to take control of your birth plan. I spoke to Natasha Pilbrow, founder of beauty service app LeSalon, about how she’s giving women the confidence to work flexibly. And our Insta Mama, Tru White, talks to us about an ancient practice that has been banned in multiple cultures for the power it gave women.

Elsewhere, we round up the most stylish shoes, stationery, backpacks and coats for back to school. And with autumn just around the corner, we have the best new season arrivals for mamas and minis too. Enjoy!

BACK TO SCHOOL P. 18

C a rly Gl e n di n n i n g E DITOR

@carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com

Part of the

Mid-weight Designer: REBECCA NOONAN Account Manager: DONNA MCCAFFERTY

T h e M a g a z i n e Fo r S t y l i s h M u m s @ A B S O L U T E LY M A M A

absolutely-mama .co.uk Editor UK: CARLY GLENDINNING Features Editor: HELEN BARON Social Media Editor: JESSICA SHALTOUT Marketing Manager: LUCIE PEARCE Art Director: PAWEL KUBA Senior Designer: MIKE ROBERTS

Finance Director: JERRIE KOLECI Director: LEAH DAY

LON DON OFFICE : 50 - 52 Whar f Rd, The Angel, London N1 7EU

Managing Director: SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: carly@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please email: donna@zest-media.com For media partnership enquiries please email: lucie@zest-media.com

Absolutely Mama supports

ABU DHABI OFFICE: FACT M.E FZ-LLC, Office 907E, TwoFour54, Park Rotana Complex, P.O Box 769328, Abu Dhabi UAE zest.london To read the latest issue of Absolutely Mama subscribe at gb.readly.com/absolutelymama

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10 things we Absolutely

LOV E The products and brands getting our attention this month

Post Bump

SA R K A LOND ON A brilliant concept, Sarka London design stylish and ethical clothes for after you’ve given birth. Each piece made in the UK using sustainable fabrics and is cleverly designed with hidden supports and innovations to aid with breastfeeding and make you feel confident and comfortable. sarkalondon.com

GOLDEN DAYS ARKET The autumn/winter collection from Swedish high street favourite ARKET has got us feeling all autumnal. Amongst the muted palette, look out for glorious colour shocks. arket.com

GROWING UP

ANY WA R E Created by British singer-songwriter Jessie Ware and award winning designer George Reddings, the dusky hues in the childrenswear collection from anyware are perfect for autumn. We love that all of the pieces are designed to grow with your little one – so they will last well beyond one season. anywarekids.com

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Eco Steps

EL L IOT T FO OT W EA R Launching this September is Elliott, an eco friendly footwear brand taking the climate change agenda to the next level. Each pair of vegan trainers bought creates an actual environmental benefit by offsetting 1 tonne of CO2 emission. elliottfootwear.com

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ma m a LOVES

Filthy Twits B LO O M A N D B LOS SO M Bloom and Blossom has teamed up with the Roald Dahl Story Company to create a range of hand washes. With the aim of making staying clean fun, they are made with 98% naturally derived ingredients. bloomandblossom.com

Off to bed

or’s Editick P

LI EWO O D New for autumn, we love these adorable pyjamas from Danish brand Liewood. Each set is made from the softest organic cotton and there’s cute prints including stripes and dinosaurs to choose from. liewood.com

RETRO KIDS

H U ND R E D PI ECE S The new collection from Hundred Pieces is inspired by music, subcultures and vintage leisurewear.

Think slogan prints, tactile fabrics and cool colour combinations. smallable.com

ART OF PLAY

RO CK & P EB B L E Simple and lots of fun, we love this cute wooden stacking toy from Rock & Pebble. It looks pretty good as a sculpture in your living room too. rockandpebble.com

COOL RIDE

BA BA BI NG We love the sleek design of the Raffi pushchair from British brand Bababing.

Practical as well as stylish, it features clever fabric technology that keeps little ones cool in summer and warm come winter. bababing.com

Animal Magic

A D EN + A N A IS aden + anais is launching a cute new collection of swaddles called Hear me Roar. Also worth checking out is their new snug fit baby sleeping bag – a cosy design for getting little ones off to sleep. adenandanais.co.uk September 2019

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Squish Space BARBICAN

IMAGE CREDIT: SHARRON WALLACE

Barbican Guildhall Creative Learning has extended the residency of Squish Space. The brilliant play space is filled with items to help little ones and grown ups explore the communication of play together. A must visit. barbican.org.uk

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W H AT ’S O N

Mini theatre goers will enjoy September’s magical productions

Bug life Until 6 October Richmond

The Puppet Theatre Barge has been putting on a programme of magical shows on a converted Thames Barge for over 30 years. This autumn, visiting company String Theatre invites audiences to forget all about reality and immerse themselves in the strange and beautiful world of the Insect Circus. puppetbarge.com

we love

Ice TIME Until 5 January • Various Locations

It’s time to put on your Mickey ears as ‘Disney on Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic’ is about to skate into a city near you. With a cast of over 50 much-loved characters, you’ll be able to sing along to all the classics including ‘Let It Go’, ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me’ and ‘Hakuna Matata’. disneyonice.com

Mini adventures 14 Sept Lyric Theatre

Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of Thumbelina and her encounters with a frog, a mouse, a mole, and a swallow comes to the Lyric theatre. The magic is brought alive through traditional glove, rod and shadow puppets in this beautiful production for little ones. lyric.co.uk

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THE BIG DAY Until 29 December Various locations

Scamp Theatre presents a heartwarming theatrical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book The Scarecrow’s Wedding. The awardwinning show promises lots of laughter and family fun. scamptheatre.com

EVENTS

Part y PEOPLE

Festival season may be drawing to a close, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop

S PI N N I N G ARO U N D Ongoing Various locations

Proof that parents can still go raving, take your crew to one of Tiny Dancers events this autumn. You’ll be able to enjoy world class DJs spinning the decks, whilst the kids are entertained with neon face painting, crafts, inflatables, glow sticks and more. tinydancersevents.com

TH ROWI N G S HAPE S Ongoing Various locations

Featuring some of the biggest artists in dance music (playing anthems you’ll recognise from back in the day), Raver Tots is the place to let off some steam with your little ones. Expect face painting, UV lights, bubbles, balloons and confetti galore.

Over the moon

ravertots.co.uk

7 Sept Lyric Theatre

oin flying cows, jazzy cats and runaway crockery with a brilliant new theatrical take on the classic nursery rhyme Hey Diddle Diddle. With original songs played live onstage, clever puppetry and lots of laughter, the Goblin Theatre company takes little ones on a journey in celebration of the importance of imagination.

Photo Credit: @BFLFEvents

J

lyric.co.uk

INTO THE WOODS Until 12 January The Lowry Salford and Town Hall Birmingham

n celebration of the 30th anniversary of ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury, the smash-hit production of the much-loved picture book returns with a 2019 tour. Join an intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog as they go in search of a bear. The perfect theatrical outing for young families.

I

M I N I R AVE R S Ongoing Various locations

Get ready to dust off your moves as Big Fish Little Fish put on new family rave events across the UK this autumn.

With a great line up of DJs and creative themes, it’s as much fun for grown-ups, as for little ones. bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk

bearhuntlive.com

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We love

BOOKS

From a first foray into classical music, to learning about art, little creatives will love this month’s reading W o r d s C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

ANOTHER PLANET

THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS

By Julia Donaldson and Axel Schef f ler

MINI MOZARTS

M OZ ART LIT TLE M U S ICAL WO N D E R

By Yoyo Books

Mini readers can take their fi rst steps into the world of classical music with this beautifully illustrated board book.

Part of a series, hone their musical ears with six famous compositions to listen to over and over again. £7.99  shop.roh.org.uk

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By a lobular lake on a far-off planet there lived a young Smed and her name was Janet. Not far away, on a humplety hill, there lived a young Smoo by the name of Bill. With imaginative and vivid illustrations, little ones will be captivated by this timely love story of inclusivity. £12.99  scholastic.co.uk

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BOOKS

OVER THE MOON W H AT W I L L YO U D R E A M O F TON IG HT ?

By Frances Stickley and Anuska Allepuz

What will you dream of tonight? A midnight balloon ride, sailing on the tail of a whale or swinging through the leaves on a jungle trapeze? Cosy up at bedtime with this hypnotic tale of a parent who wonders where their child’s dreams will take them as they drift off to sleep. £11.99  nosycrow.com

YO U N G A N D O LD

LITTLE ARTISTS M I FF Y X REM B R AN DT

By Thames & Hudson

To mark 350 years since the death of the Dutch Master, ‘miff y x rembrandt’ explains his works to mini art lovers. The book is a collaboration between Mercis by, Miff y author Dick Bruna’s Amsterdam-based publishers and the Rijksmuseum and features our favourite bunny hopping alongside famous paintings such as The Night Watch. £10  miffyshop.co.uk

GRANDMA Z

By Daniel Gray-Barnett

When Grandma Z roars into town on her motorcycle, Albert is swept up in a very extraordinary adventure. This brilliant debut from Daniel Gray-Barnett is filled with wonder, imagination, and a wild, magical spirit that will delight grown-ups and little ones alike. £11.99  scribepublications.co.uk

SQUIRELL

AWAY NUTS

M E A D OW M AG I C

By Lou Peacock and Yasmeen Ismail

HEIDI

By Jeanne Willis and

When a little squirrel fi nds a big pile of nuts, she is very excited! But soon another squirrel arrives on the scene and he thinks the nuts belong to him.

And things get even more confusing when Rabbit, Bear and Badger get involved. Will they listen to wise old Owl? Find out in this hilarious story about sharing. £6.99  nosycrow.com

This beautiful retelling of Johanna Spyri’s classic follows the story of orphan Heidi.

Bringing an old favourite to a new generation, the timeless tale is brought to life with Briony May Smith’s heart-warming illustrations. £14.99  nosycrow.com

Briony May Smith

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N E W CO L L EC T I O N 2 0 1 9

For more details visit our website www.venicci.co.uk or email customerservice@venicci.co.uk

Check out our new brand INSEVIO www.insevio.com

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Sustainable Strolling JOOLZ

Joolz has introduced a new sustainable fabric to their range in Classic Blue. Made using recycled plastic bottles, it’s super breathable to make strolling as comfortable as possible for your little one. my-joolz.co.uk

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Back to

School

Carly Glendinning rounds up everything they’ll need for heading back to class in style

Editor’s Pick

B AG S OF FUN STICKY LEMON

Going back to school doesn’t seem so bad when you’ve got a stylish backpack. We love the block colour styles from Dutch brand Sticky Lemon, which come in an array of hues and sizes. stickylemon.nl

Fit in

SMALL STORIES

Practical and stylish, the range of backpacks from Small Stories has plenty of room to fit everything from books to lunchboxes. We just wish they made them in grown-up sizes. smallstories.co.uk

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RAINY DAYS

MUDDY PUDDLES

For days when they are splish splashing their way to the school gates, we love the range of colourful rainwear from Muddy Puddles.

Their brilliant selection of insulated waterproofs will keep them warm and dry whatever the weather. muddypuddles.com

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essentials BACK

TO S CHOOL

5 of t he be s t

E S S E NTI A L S

1

NAME IT MERI MERI

Meri Meri’s glitter alphabet stickers are the perfect way to personalise everything – from school books to pencil cases. They’re pretty useful for learning your ABC’s too. merimeri.co.uk

STEP UP YOUNG SOLES

Inspired by childhood memories, Young Soles make classic British heritage shoe styles with a twist. Ultralightweight and ultra-cool in equal measures. youngsoles.london

Top Marks

DJECO

Make sure their pencil cases are stocked up with Djeco’s cute range of stationery. The brand has lots of fun learning toys too, which are great for sparking little imaginations. djeco.com

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3 4 5 1. Liewood, Lunch Box, £24.95 scandiborn.com 2. Meri Meri, Backpack, £36 merimeri.co.uk 3. Rockahula Kids, Hair Clips, £6 rockahulakids.com 4. Kickers, Mary Janes, £45 kickers.co.uk 5. Fabelab, Pencil Case, £14.95 scandiborn.com

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e s s ent i al s

TOT GE AR

ent parroved app

CARRY ALL BAMBINO MIO

Known for their reusable nappies, Bambino Mio has launched its first changing bag. The practical unisex design features an ingenious waterresistant ‘messy’ pocket to securely store wet reusable nappies, reusable baby wipes, potty training pants and more. £79.99; bambinomio.com

TOT GEAR

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

MULTI TASKER AMAZON

The new Amazon Echo Show 5 is a godsend for busy parents. It can be used in so many different ways including as a baby monitor, a sleep aid (it can read bedtime stories and sing nursery rhymes), and it’s really useful for videos such as cooking tutorials and pregnancy yoga too. £79.99; amazon.co.uk

CLE AN SWEEP AQ UA W I P E S

Designed for the most delicate newborn baby skin and approved by the NHS, Aqua Wipes are free from nasty chemicals and contain more than 99% purified water and organic Aloe Vera. They are made from a soft biodegradable fabric that’s kind to your little one and the planet too. aquawipes.co.uk

Mamas & Papas

PARENTS TO BE EVENTS Reviewed by Mamas & Papas Parent Approved Panellist Salma Nurr @salma_anm

I

t’s time to get ready for your baby’s arrival, but where do you start? At the free Mamas & Papas Parents To Be events, you will learn about parenting topics from experts and get ideas about the baby essentials you might need.

The staff welcomed us with goody bags and we were made to feel comfortable with complimentary refreshments throughout. We attended on a Sunday and it was really lovely having the shop to just the parent group attending the event.

I had a few products in mind that I wanted to look at, and there is nothing better than seeing everything for yourself before making that all-important decision of what actually meets your needs and ultimately what you want to purchase. I learnt so much despite this being my third pregnancy.

The car seat demonstration and the first aid talk were very useful and informative and we were given information on all of the offers and buying options. All of the experts were very knowledgeable. After the event, we had the opportunity to look around and the staff were available to assist us. The Mamas & Papas store truly is a one-stopshop for parents-to-be and I would absolutely recommend the event. mamasandpapas.com

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Meet the

PARENTS

David & Chloe @being.dad & @_cloiishields_

Introducing the new Mamas & Papas Parent Approved Panel

2nd time Parents, newest arrival Elia, Northern Ireland

Katerina Finnie

M

@katerinaf innie_pt

amas & Papas Parent Approved Panel is all about real parents. Sharing real experiences and real insights from parents who are in the thick of it. The funny, the frustrating, the heart-warming, the tear-jerking, the silly; it’s all about honesty.

After receiving almost 800 entries; the lucky finalists were put through a tough judging process before being announced as this year’s official panellists.

Brought on board to road-test products; provide authentic feedback and be Mamas & Papas’ panel of parenting experts, Absolutely Mama will continue to feature their honest reviews on our Tot Gear page.

To follow each of the 22 panellists on their individual journeys, check out their Instagram profiles and mamasandpapas. com/parent-approved-panel.

1st time mum to Harris, Glasgow

Jodie Stark

Kelly Sibley

@jodieannstark

@kelsib88

1st time mum to be, Bristol

1st time mum to be, Nottingham

Holly Burge

Hannah Evans

@the_thirtysomethinggirl

@hannahlouisevans

1st time mum to Posey, Bournemouth

1st time mum to Luna, Manchester

Abigail Thomas @littleonesnus

2nd time mum to be, Kent

Ali Buckley @homewiththebuckleys

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2nd time mum, newest arrival Marlow, Andover

Darcy Brown @babybrowninbloom

1st time mum to Barnaby

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mamah o o d M A M AS

& PAPAS

Hollie Robinson @hollieevelyn

1st time mum to Archie, Hertfordshire Salma Nurr @salma_anm

1st time mum to be, London

Danielle Lemonious @romeo__italia

2nd time mum, newest arrival Italia, Manchester

Laura England @notjustatwinmum

Mum of three, newest arrivals, twins Eve and Esther, Stoke

Paige & Rob @paige.crowson & @robertfree

2nd Time Parents, newest arrival Oakley, Norfolk

Christy-Leigh Castles @christyleighcastles

Mum of 4, newest arrival Bonnie Farnham, Surrey

“Mamas & Papas Parent Aproved Panel is all about real parents”

Samantha Gibb @ladyleopardblog

1st time mum to Gabriel, Buckinghamshire

Harley Challenor @mrscandthree

3rd time mum to be, Derby Haley Archibald @_thenewbiemum

1st time mum to Elodie, Derby Tanzina Ali @makeupatoz

1st time mum to Aria, Luton

September 2019

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Sister P ower IN THIS SECTION

This month it’s all about sisters lifting up sisters. Natasha Pilbrow, founder of LeSalon, discusses how she’s supporting mamas into flexible work.

And Tru White, founder of Seasoned Folk talks to us about the ancient art that has empowered women for centuries. Enjoy!

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“We enable women to carve out me-time with minimal effort”

woman in

WORK Natasha Pilbrow on launching beauty service app LeSalon

I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

Q How did you come to build LeSalon?

A Prior to co-founding LeSalon I was working as a lawyer in private practice. I had young children at home so found it a challenge to get to a salon for treatments outside office hours.

However I really appreciated the way a fresh manicure could make an instant difference to my mood and my confidence.

Finding highly skilled, trustworthy therapists to come to my home or office wasn’t easy though. After meeting with several women working in beauty therapy, I realised there were numerous obstacles that prevented therapists from working independently from a traditional salon, despite the obvious lifestyle benefits that come with it. Creating LeSalon seemed like a brilliant business solution, which stood to benefit the lives of both clients and therapists.

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mamah o o d

INTERVIEW

Another big challenge is balancing supply and demand, but we’re starting to master this now, and have a number of processes in place to ensure therapists are getting the number of hours they want, whilst making sure we can service clients whenever and wherever they want treatments.

Q What makes the app so great for mums in particular?

A From the feedback we’ve received, the greatest thing for our clients who are mums is the flexibility. If you’re juggling childcare and work commitments, or have really young children at home to take care of, it’s so hard to find time for yourself. We enable women to carve out me-time with minimal effort. Our therapists will come directly to you at home or at work, so you needn’t worry about leaving the kids or getting to the salon.

Q How long did it take you to get LeSalon up and running? And what were the biggest challenges?

A It was quite challenging recruiting skilled therapists when we first started as we did not have much to show them except our website and it was definitely a novel way of working at that time. My co-founder built the original booking site himself before our CTO joined the team. It was fairly amateur but functional and slowly the bookings started coming through – so we were up and running quite quickly but we had a lot of refining and iterating to get the operation side working smoothly.

One of the biggest challenges starting a business in London is actually being able to afford office space. Like most businesses we started from the kitchen table, but quickly outgrew that and needed a proper space. Luckily we’ve been part of a couple of accelerator programmes which not only provided advice and support but also desk space, which was invaluable in the early days.

“Our beauty therapists are at the heart of everything we do”

Q We love that the app offers therapists the option of flexible working.

Is that something that’s important to the business?

A Flexible working is absolutey central to our business. Our beauty therapists are at the heart of everything we do, and have been from the beginning. One of my biggest motivations was to create a platform where women in the industry could work on their own terms, whilst feeling supported and secure, with opportunities to progress their careers.

Gig economy work is notoriously unstable, so we’ve created a framework that aims to disrupt this, and empower beauty therapists to have viable and fulfilling careers. As well as offering our therapists the highest rate of commission in the industry, we offer them technical training, financial advice, treatment perks, and various work patterns, so they can choose how they want to work. We also help our therapists finance equipment, and we provide branded toolkits to get them started.

As I mentioned we also work incredibly hard to balance supply and demand, to ensure that all our therapists get the number of hours they want. The career fulfilment and

wellbeing of our therapists really is at our core, and we take immense pride in the supportive community we’ve created, and the talented women who work with us.

Q And finally, how did your own motherhood journey play into your decision to launch the app?

A As I mentioned, working as a lawyer with young children at home made it really hard to get to a salon, and I missed that restorative feeling that a quick beauty treatment can provide. Ultimately beauty treatments build confidence, force you take a few minutes to yourself, and help you regain that sense of identity that is so often lost when you’ve got young children. I felt really passionately that something as simple as on-demand beauty could make a real difference to women’s lives; this goes for the therapists too. Flexible working makes so much sense for young mums juggling work and children, and my experience balancing work and motherhood made me confident that this could be a brilliant career solution for those women. lesalon.com @lesalonapp September 2019 | 27

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“We’re raising our kids with a different outlook than most families that surround us”

INSTA MAMA

Founder of Seasoned Folk Clothing Tru White talks to us about life in Texas @trufolk @seasonedfolk

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Q How did you come to launch your brand Seasoned Folk Clothing?

A After some traumatic events that involved pollution, we decided to make sustainability a priority for our family. Clothing was the heaviest footprint for me, so it felt natural to source vintage and slow down our fast fashion consumption. I started plant dyeing later in that journey, after experimenting with dyeing vintage baby onesies. I researched ancient dyeing practices and found dyeing and weaving to be more of a spiritual practice than anything else and was actually banned in multiple cultures for the power it gave women.

Since then I’ve begun dyeing according to the season and cycles... and turning low vibrational pieces to be full of intention.

Q How important is Instagram to the business and what do you like and dislike most about the platform?

A Instagram is my only marketing platform. I actually don’t use the @seasonedfolk account often, but any Seasoned Folk sales come from my wholesalers, who sell on Instagram.

My relationship with Instagram varies.

I often admittedly find it exhausting and redundant, as a cookie cutter mould of women. But I also love the community I’ve found, and follow some incredible and inspiring women. Only I have control of what I get out of it, and I try to be more conscious of that everyday.

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mama h ood Q & A

Q How are you raising your family to be eco-conscious?

A We try to live as consciously as possible.

We don’t have access to bulk stores, for example, and we’ve tried to eliminate plastic as much as possible and any disposable kitchenware. We’re not perfect but we are always trying to improve, and most importantly, create sustainable habits for our children who are inheriting all this mess.

Q What’s it like bringing a family up in Texas and what’s your lifestyle like there?

A Texas is interesting. We’re from here, so we’re used to the right-wing mindset and feel comfortable challenging it with our left-wing views. Community is limited to the stereotypical Texas lifestyle though, and that’s a struggle. We’re raising our kids with a different outlook than most

of the families that surround us. We’re spiritual vs religious, our diets are the total opposite to our peers, and our priorities are just on different pages. There are definitely sacrifices to not living amongst likeminded people in say, California...

Q Do you like to travel as a family? What has been your biggest adventure?

A We love travelling and try to camp in new environments as much possible.

We’ve roadtripped to Oregon, and camped all along the California coast, which was amazing. We’ve also roadtripped to New York City with a newborn. That may have been the craziest!

Q Favourite way to spend a day as a family?

A Probably camping at Palo Dura, a local canyon. We’ll hike around and cool off in the river, cook over a fire and watch the sun set and a full moon rise.

Q And finally, most surprising thing about motherhood?

A How difficult conscious parenting is and to evolve from the instinct to parent in the same way I was. Reparenting while parenting is a real trip, man!

September 2019 | 2 9

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mamah ood COLUMN

“We stopped at three service stations en route for loo trips, lunch and relieving boredom”

real mum talk...

Telling it Like it is Alexandra Hunter on holidays with a tiny

T

wo weeks ago I went to a friend’s wedding in Devon. The journey was a dream; I set the alarm for 5am, showered, made coffee to go and was on the road for 5.30am. I put my foot down and arrived at my destination three hours later having avoided all traffic and the horror of motorway service stations. I had the pleasure of listening to the TED Talks I wanted to catch up on and had breakfast and a nap at the hotel before getting ready for the ceremony at a leisurely pace. My friend very sensibly decided on no children at the wedding as she concluded it would be more relaxing for all guests, most of whom are parents, and it was. We drank, danced and slept on the beach the next

morning, hanging but happy.

The word holiday develops a very different meaning post children. Gone are the days of late nights (there’s no point if you know your child will wake at 6am irrespective of your wine intake) and long lie ins, reading entire novels in a day and running on your own schedule is pure fantasy. Holidays with kids, unless you’re lucky enough to have a nanny or exceptionally willing partner, are no longer the relaxing experiences of your prior life.

Seb and I missed out on the free flights for under 2s, I was anxious about everything we’d need to take with us (the list was endless) and it was easier to holiday in the UK. Sebby, Piglet and I arrived in Polzeath yesterday afternoon for our annual family holiday. The day before I spent running around

packing, writing lists, panicking about forgetting specific teddies required to sleep and obtaining copious amounts of fish fingers because I was scared they might not sell them in the West Country and then what would we do! A friend pointed out this was not the case but if it satisfied my anxiety and made me calm then I should crack on.

My child is in fact a dream to travel with and he’s terribly reasonable but I find the preparation and travel stressful. We stopped at three service stations en route for loo trips, lunch and relieving boredom. I now know the words to the entire Aladdin soundtrack as we had it on loop for five hours and I can’t get it out of my head.

I have never felt more middle aged than when I had no choice but to purchase a Thule roof rack as I couldn’t fit everything required for a holiday in my Mini (the largest one on the market I hasten to add), £500 confirming that my life had changed irrevocably and I would never be able to throw a bikini and a few dresses in my suitcase and hop on a plane again.

Holidays are tiring, but they contain so much joy, moments when you know that there is nothing that could make you happier than you are in that moment with your child. Today we went to the beach and explored the caves looking for bears and the rock pools searching for Nemo.

I come back from our holidays needing another holiday but so very happy. Buy that roof rack or book that flight, the pleasure they get from a holiday with you makes all the logistical stress seem insignificant.

September 2019

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Making a

FAMILY Michael Johnson-Ellis, one half of blog TwoDads.U.K, shares his journey to becoming a parent

I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

“There are no accidental children born to gay couples, it’s always about the planning”

Q How did you meet your husband, and when did you know you wanted to start a family together?

A Wes and I met in June 2012, it was Birmingham Pride and I went with a load of friends with the plan to let off some much needed steam. I’d been single for six months and wanted some time to myself, or so I thought! It was a chance meeting actually as we first spoke in a bar. We talked of wanting a family fairly early on, Wes already had a daughter from a previous marriage so that really helped table the discussion. We were engaged within six months and living together, and it was around then we stated to discuss wanting a family. You see this is the issue – we have to plan ahead, there are no accidental children born to gay couples, it’s always about the planning. We spent almost four years researching the various options available to us – looking into the different types of surrogacy and the countries where we could go for treatment. After what felt like forever, we decided on the UK being the best option.

Q How did you meet your surrogate?

A Our surrogate (and her family) has become an extension of our family – we’ll obviously always be forever grateful. Talulah knows exactly who our surrogate is obviously, and she knows she grew in her tummy, just like her brother (who is due this summer). We had a gestational surrogate, which meant we also had an egg donor so Talulah isn’t

biologically related to her. We first spoke back at the beginning of 2015 after chatting online.

We met up several times before we decided that we were ‘matched’, a term used in the surrogacy world when intended parents and surrogates decide to embark on the journey together.

Q How did it feel when Talulah arrived?

A Her birth was possibly the best day of my life and the most incredible experience imaginable. Our surrogate was having an elective c-section, but a few days before the appointment her waters broke and we got the call to head to the hospital. When we arrived we saw our surrogate and her husband as she was being prepped for theatre. We always said that it was important that she had the support she needed whilst in theatre and due to the one-person policy, if only one of us was allowed to see our child born, neither of us

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papah o o d

INTERVIEW

“We’re advocates for and passionate about UK alturistic surrogacy”

would. However, it didn’t work out that way, at 05.50am our surrogate’s husband knocked on our door and we were expecting him to come in with our baby – but there wasn’t one. He simply said “Get some scrubs on, and come and see your baby being born!”. We must have got dressed in 2 minutes, and 45 seconds later, I heard the surgeon say “Good morning, and happy birthday!”. It was our daughter, born at 06.00am, 16/10/16, weighing 8lb.

Q What made you want to share your journey online?

A I think it’s really important for a few reasons. Firstly, we’re advocates for and passionate about UK altruistic surrogacy – by sharing our experience we make others aware of the possibilities. Many couples think going abroad is the only option, where surrogacy in the States costs $120,000 per pregnancy, in the UK it’s much, much less. The second

reason we blog, and post about our lives is to help de-stigmatize and normalise same sex parenting and families like ours, who we want to represent positively. We have a number of missions and objectives to help others, from the work we’re doing with the Law Commissioners, through to increasing baby changing in male bathrooms – it all helps with the wider cause. The third reason is to encourage others to talk more openly about fertility and infertility, it’s such a supportive community and I’m loving being part of it.

Q What have been the biggest challenges?

A Some of the biggest challenges we’ve faced have been educating others about our journey, the NHS in particular. Not all hospitals have experienced a same sex surrogacy journey, and it makes some clinicians nervous. One of our biggest challenges was when our NHS trust (where Taluah was born), didn’t fully

understand our rights as intended parents, as at the time the guidelines surrounding surrogacy and the treatment of intended parents were unclear. We were being discriminated against and the trust wanted us to have our baby handed to us, off-site in a car park. Clearly this was unacceptable, but we worked together to resolve it and have the birthing plan we wanted, no different from any other parent.

A personal high for us was being asked to go to the Houses of Parliament in October 2018 to give our account of being fathers through UK surrogacy. It was a real honour, and since then we’ve been asked to support the Law Commissioners on their parent panel with their latest proposal ‘Building families though surrogacy: a new law’.

Q What is the one piece of advice you would share with other parents who are beginning their search for a surrogate to help them start a family?

A Ensure you and your surrogate take time getting to know one another, it’s a journey and you both need to feel comfortable. Don’t rush into starting your journey if it doesn’t feel 100% right. twodaddies.co.uk @twodads.u.k September 2019

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Arm Candy JEM + BEA

Jem + Bea has added several new styles to their range of covetable changing bags and accessories this autumn. Definitely worth checking out is their new sustainable collection which includes their popular Edie Weekender and MAMA pouch redesigned using nylon yarn made from recycled fishing nets. jemandbea.com

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mama

ST Y L E NOTES

The month’s best styles, collaborations and collections

FRILLED TO P I EC E S YOLKE

we love

We’re huge fans of British brand Yolke’s sleepwear, so it follows that their daywear is just as good. Top of our wishlists is this billowing blouse which features the most beautiful frill neckline. yolke.co.uk

ECO RETRO

BY FAR

BY FAR’s breakout social media success owes as much to the ‘90s appeal of their shoes and accessories, as their eco principles.

The brand’s designs are handmade in a family-run factory using premium and sustainable materials. net-a-porter.com

Make The Cut MOTHER ROSE

Mother Rose’s innovative parachute dress can be worn throughout pregnancy and after your little one arrives. Cleverly constructed, poppers along the front panel give easy access to an intimate breastfeeding position. mother-rose.co.uk

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Female Form

MAMA

nd Bra us Foc

KARINA BANKS LONDON

Jewellery designer Karina Banks handcrafts all of her pieces sustainably in her London-based studio. A lovely pregnancy gift idea, her ‘Mammary Ring’ is inspired by the unique and beautiful irregularities of the female body. karinabanks.com

BUG CLOTHING

UNDER COVE R

An East-London based, eco-conscious brand

I

SIX STUDIO

It can be hard to find beautiful maternity lingerie, so Six is definitely a brand to know.

We love their Rosa set – with delicate French Leavers lace, it can be worn throughout pregnancy and post-partum. six-studio.com

5 o f t he b e st A C H A RM E D L I F E

MISSOMA Star Charm Cuff, £95; missoma.com

ELIOU Pearl Necklace, £144; net-a-porter.com

LOQUET Evil Eye Bracelet £550; loquetlondon.com

MARIA BLACK Cross Charm Bracelet, £179; maria-black.com

f you’re trying to be more mindful about your shopping habits, then Bug clothing is a brand to bookmark. Amy Ward founded the ecoconscious label with the idea that we should all be buying less, and valuing quality and craftsmanship over quantity.

Striving to use only natural fibres, the collection is made using deadstock fabrics sourced from designer factory waste to avoid contributing to the production of new materials. Each piece is beautifully handcrafted in Amy’s East London-based studio on a very small scale – so you can be sure that what you’re getting is something truly individual.

Going against the traditional seasonal cycle, the brand is also conscious not to follow trends. A beautifully billowy sleeved blouse with tie cuffs, a wear-anywhere dress cut with a deep V at the back, and a practical ankle-grazing skirt with buttons down the front are amongst the timeless pieces that Amy has designed in the hope that they will be worn and loved for years to come. bugclothing.co.uk

CASSANDRO LONDON Double Bangle, £315; cassandrolondon.com

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Autumn Tu r n Easy pieces for an autumn pregnancy and beyond‌

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fash io n INTERVIEW

Q Why did you decide to set up a kids clothing label?

A It all started when we were having a chat one day about how we both struggled to find simple but beautiful children’s clothing that we loved. We decided to try getting some made ourselves and the rest is history, that’s really how it began. A cup of tea and a chat on our mum’s sofa has turned into this brand that we’re so proud of.

PRETTY IN PRINT

Imogen and Leonie of Little Cotton Clothes on making a business underpinned by true sisterhood Inter view HELEN BARON

Q Did you have any industry experience?

A I (Imogen) have been a buyer for nearly 20 years and have lots of experience designing, working with suppliers and putting together various ranges and collections. Leonie is a great sewer, very creative and has the patience for drawing up patterns. Together our skills work perfectly.

Q How important is sustainability?

A This is very important to us. We use paper postage bags, cotton bags for packaging and recycle as much as we can. Any waste fabric from our main factory is sent to a charity in India to be made into items to help families in need and we also donate clothes to a children’s charity in India (where we also sponsor a little boy and girl). We’re going to India in October and can’t wait to meet the children.

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fash io n INTERVIEW

Q How did you hone the aesthetic?

A Our aesthetic is very simple silhouettes, vintage-style prints and the smallest of details. In a nutshell, if we don’t love the item ourselves and wouldn’t want to dress our little ones in it, then it isn’t right for our brand.

Q And what is the direction for the new collection?

A For the new collection, we have introduced knitwear which is a new venture for us and is made in Portugal. We are also launching prints on textured fabrics – printed cotton, linen and cord, which is exciting. As always it is our florals that set us apart, and we have some beautiful ones for this collection. The inspiration for autumn comes from walks and moments at the fireside together.

“Inspiration for Autumn comes from walks and moments at the fireside together”

Q What is it like working together?

A It’s great! Much easier than we ever thought it would be. We live quite far away from each other so all of the day-to-day decisions are done over Messenger but for the big decisions we meet up at our family home in Worcestershire and have a good old catch-up. We are both very different and have complementary skills and together it works very well. Never in a million years would we have thought we’d end up working together but here we are and we’re loving it!

Q What have you learned since setting up. Is there anything you would change?

A We have learned so much! We really should write a book one day, there are so many elements of business that you don’t even think about when setting up. I think the main thing

we’ve learned is what an amazing tool social media is for running a business. We’d be nothing without the support we’ve received there. If I could change something I would probably say I’d have got a bookkeeper much sooner than we did. If you can afford to, it’s best to pay someone to do the jobs you aren’t great at – and I’m definitely not strong on bookkeeping.

Q What’s next? How will you continue to grow the brand?

A Well the biggest thing that has happened recently is that Leonie has left her full-time job to focus entirely on Little Cotton Clothes, which means we can really step up. We’d love to introduce the brand into more countries; we are currently in over 50 stockists worldwide. We are working with a designer on our exclusive prints and will continue to offer more and more prints each season.

We will continue to expand our ladieswear offering and one day soon we’d love to launch Little Cotton Home. littlecottonclothes.com September 2019 | 47

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kid s

FA S H I O N NOTES Carly Glendinning rounds up the month’s best styles, looks and launches

GET OUTSIDE TÖA ST I E

With plenty of cool designs to choose from, Töastie make brilliant outwear for kids. We love that their thermo-insulated puffers are crafted using responsibly-sourced down, and their raincoats are engineered from recycled plastic bottles.

we love

toastiekids.com

LITTLE STEPS BOBUX X THE BONNIE MOB

Two of our favourite brands have come together to create the sweetest shoes for little ones. Combining Bobux’s footwear expertise and The bonnie mob’s playful design aesthetic the limited-edition collaboration is inspired by themes of peace and love. thebonniemob.com

Join the band ARKET

Scandi high street store Arket may have only been around a few seasons, but it’s fast become one of our go-to places to pick up colourful and fun pieces for little ones. The AW collection is full of cheerful basics, perfect for playing in. arket.com

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KIDS

nd Bra us Foc

Girls Club T H E M I D D L E DAU G H T E R

From the creative force behind no added sugar, The middle daughter is a new girlswear brand for ages 2-14 launching this season. Definitely for cool chicks, we’re really excited about the minimal aesthetic, bold colour palette, and playful detailing. themiddledaughter.co.uk

ENDOURCE A clever platform for finding the best brands for the whole family

O

S PAC E EXPLORERS BOBO CHOSES

The moon landing anniversary has sparked lots of stellar collections this season and one of our favourites has be from Bobo Choses. Look out for cosmo boots and out-of-thisworld planetary embroidery. bobochoses.com

5 of t he b e st AU T U M N AC C E S S ORI E S

ROCKAHULA KIDS, Bum Bag, £12; rockahulakids.com

STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS Cowboy Boots, £144; alexandalexa.com

THE BONNIE MOB Socks, £12; thebonniemob.com

IL GUFO Hat, £41 ilgufo.com

MERI MERI Hair Clips £10; merimeri.com

ur favourite discovery for womenwear has just launched a section for kids.

A brilliant timesaving resource, Endource allows you to scroll the best brands on the high street (and beyond) in one place. And now it’s super simple to shop for your mini whilst you’re checking out the latest arrivals from Arket, & Other Stories and Whistles (and more) for yourself.

The site directs you to the brands to complete your purchase, but what makes the platform so useful (especially for busy mums) is their on-point edits. Easy to scroll during the night feed or during an episode of Peppa Pig, they provide just the right amount of inspiration. You’ll enjoy their curations of the latest trends and key pieces, whilst the kidswear section has useful roundups for holidays, back to school and play days. It’s addictive stuff.

Kids brands currently on the site include Arket and Boden, but they will be adding lots more in the coming months. Also worth checking out is their new menswear section, making it a great resource for the whole family. endource.com

September 2019

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ALL TO G E T H E R NOW Travel to the magical world of the Yellow Submarine… stellamccartney.com

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wellness M A K I N G A B I R T H P L A N LI K E A F E M I N I N ST p .6 4 T H E B E ST B E AU T Y P R O D U C T S T H I S AU T U M N p .6 6

Eco Stretch LOLA FRED

Swiss brand Lola Fred make very cool and sustainable yoga-wear. Free from nasty chemicals, you can breathe easy in the knowledge that their range is crafted from organic and recycled materials and is fair trade. lolastudio.ch

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Worlds comfiest, unisex pyjamas ever!

100% biodegradable, super soft, cotton interlock fabric.

Available in size 6 months to 12yrs in 7 awesome styles and cut for cloth nappies. All delivered in their own cloth bag.

Choose ethical brands that don’t cost the earth

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10% discount

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Ready for school?

Get your new gear for the new school year with our gorgeous back to school range.

Lovely lunchboxes, stationery, backpacks and much more at www.rexlondon.com

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wellne s s

HE ALTH

EAT YOUR VEG LITTLE FREDDIE

Little Freddie is the first brand in the UK to offer a pouch recycling scheme, where nothing goes to landfill. They have recently launched two new vegetable-led recipes too. littlefreddie.com

mama’s

WELLNESS NOTES Recyclable food pouches and an antioxidant boost DRINK UP

INSIDE OUT

PUREARTH

WILD NUTRITION

Purearth has launched a new limited edition ‘wine sized’ grapefruit kefir. The perfect thirst quencher for expectant mamas, grapefruit is a great immune booster as well as being a good source of Vitamin A and folate, which is essential for baby’s development. purearth.co.uk

Formulated using food-grown antioxidants, this powerful blend of vitamins, minerals and herb extracts is designed to offer inside-out protection for sun-damaged skin. It cleverly works by optimising the body’s protection against free-radical damage. wildnutrition.com

STRETCH OUT T E N H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

Throughout the summer, Ten Health & Fitness is offering strength-building Pilates sessions at their Chiswick studios for kids aged 9-16. ten.co.uk

September 2019

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Tomato and Basil Ricotta Tart Servings: 8 toddlers Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 40 minutes

A

great picnic recipe the whole family will enjoy, you can use courgette instead of tomato if you want to change things up.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 roll of filo or puff pastry • 4 tbsp of olive oil • 250g ricotta cheese • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, plus more for topping • 2 tsp chopped fresh parsley, plus more for topping • 1 tsp lemon zest • Salt and pepper, to taste • 300g mixed tomatoes (baby, plum, heritage), sliced into 2cm thick slices

DIRECTIONS

HAPPY E AT E R S Alice Fotheringham, infant nutrition specialist at organic baby food brand Piccolo, shares three simple family recipes

1 Heat oven to 180C. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2 If using filo pastry, lay 1 sheet of pastry on parchment paper. Brush lightly with olive oil. Top with another sheet of filo; brush lightly with oil. Repeat until all filo sheets are stacked. Otherwise roll out the puff pastry to fit the tray.

3 Lay a piece of baking paper over the top of the pastry, and line with baking beans or rice to blind bake the pastry (as the filling is quite wet). Bake for 20-25 minutes.

4 Whilst the pastry is cooking make the filling. Slice the tomatoes, cutting out any extra seeds in the big tomatoes to reduce any liquid. Sprinkle with a little salt and let rest. In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, basil, parsley, lemon zest and salt and pepper to taste until well combined.

5 Once the pastry is cooked, take it out of the oven and leave to cool for 5-10 minutes, then spread the ricotta mixture over the top of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.

6 Drain the excess liquid from the tomatoes and place on top of the ricotta.

Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.

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RECIPES

Bake for 25 minutes until the dough is golden brown and flaky.

7 Cool the tart slightly; top with more chopped basil and chives and salt and pepper, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tip: For a dairy-free option, make a tomato sauce base and mix in some sun-dried tomatoes and paprika – just as delicious!

Super quick and perfect for all of the family!

Courgette and Sweetcorn Fritters Suitable from: 1 year Serves: 4 Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes

S

uper quick and perfect for all of the family! If you don’t have time to make individual fritters, just take out the flour, add a couple more eggs and make individual omelettes, works just as well!

INGREDIENTS

• 175g (6oz) plain (all-purpose) flour • 50g plain flour • 2 eggs • 1 medium courgette, grated • 50g tinned or frozen (and defrosted) sweetcorn, drained • 50g feta • Pinch of freshly chopped parsley (optional) • Splash of milk • 2 tsp olive oil

DIRECTIONS In a bowl whisk together the flour and eggs. Add the grated courgette, sweetcorn, parsley and crumble in the feta.

2 Then start adding the milk a little at a time until you have a thick batter.

3 Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a frying pan and drop in a tablespoon of the batter and cook for a few minutes on each side until golden.

1

4 Serve immediately. You can serve with a chopped cucumber, tomato and parsley salad or for toddlers just some cooked peas.

Tip: Fritters can be made with any variety of vegetables or cheeses. Try grated carrot and spring onion with cheddar, or mushroom and ham with mozzarella. You can even make fruity ones. Try adding chopped apple and cinnamon!

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Making your birth experience everything you want it to be is central to our private maternity service at Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital.

Experience expert, caring support from your chosen consultant or midwife and warm, conducive surroundings including water birth pools and private en-suite rooms.

Alongside personalised care, choice and comfort, you’ll have 24-hours access to world-class medical support.

Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital Sir Stanley Clayton Ward, Du Cane Road, London W12 0HS

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Fruity Berry Mousse

INGREDIENTS

W

DIRECTIONS

Suitable from: 6 months Makes: 8 mini mousses Preparation: 25 minutes

hich children don’t love fruit yoghurt for dessert? Try making your own creamy version, which can be rustled up in minutes and made the day before. You can mix up the berries and swap the gelatine for chia seeds if you want to make it more of a pudding.

RECIPES

• 150g frozen berries such as raspberries, strawberries and blueberries • 200ml thin cream or tinned coconut • 100ml apple juice not from concentrate • 2 teaspoons/leaves gelatine (enough to set half a pint, 300ml)

1 Let the berries defrost for a little.

Whip the cream or coconut until thick in a blender or with a hand-held whisk. Add the raspberries and continue mixing until all blended in together.

2 Dissolve the gelatine in 2 tablespoons of hot water, stir into the cream mixture.

Pour into a glass bowl or eight individual bowls and refrigerate until set.

3 Serve topped with fresh fruit.

EXTRA TIP Piccolo's organic pouches and stir in sauces can be added to all of these recipes @mylittlepiccolo mylittlepiccolo.com

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Yo u r B i r t h ,

YO UR WAY

B

irth plans can be controversial. As a feminist, I find this interesting!

They are a place for women to state clearly what they do and don’t want; to take a lead role in the birth decisionmaking, and I think this is why they can be discouraged, or even mocked.

Birth is an area with a long tradition of the birthing woman herself being the very last person to consult about the hows, whys and wheres. I think it’s time for that to change, and urge every pregnant woman to make a birth plan. It’s a way of stepping into your authority, and saying quite clearly: my voice matters. As you make your plan, remember the following things.

There is a point in making a birth plan

Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

There are ways that you can approach it that will make it a valid and useful 64

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document. Firstly, know that you matter. What you want matters. You are important and your needs are important.

This is your body, and your birth.

Knowledge is power

The process of making a plan will in itself educate you on your options and get you thinking about what YOU want – that’s a reason to make one right there.

Shoot for the moon but also consider the stars

Just as you plan to party on the beach but know where the nearest cafe is if it rains, you should also think about birth plans in this way. Make a plan A that sums up your hopes for your ideal birth.

Don’t be afraid to have a strong vision of what you want – with birth, as with all other areas of your life, strong visions can help you reach your goals – but it’s not a guarantee. So once you’ve got that vision, then make contingency plans – a plan B (and maybe a C or D!). Think about what you might want if birth deviates in any way from plan A. Consider as many eventualities as you can.

IMAGE CREDIT: BABYBJÖRN ONE AIR MESH BABY CARRIER ALMOND GREEN £169 SMALLABLE.COM

Milli Hill, author of Give Birth Like A Feminist, shares her tips for taking control of your birth plan

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welln es s ADVICE

“It’s a way of stepping into your authority, and saying quite clearly: my voice matters” Give Birth Like A Feminist by Milli Hill is published by HQ, HarperCollins on the 22nd August in paperback original, ebook and audiobook.

Make a postnatal plan

Think about what you want the first hour after birth to be like and lay out what is important to you in that time as part of your plan. Make a separate postnatal plan too, with a clear idea of how you are going to navigate the first few weeks with your baby, and a list of useful numbers for support and help with feeding.

Get it read, get it signed!

Ask for what you want even if it is not what others want

Only one person can have this baby, and that’s you. Because of this, you absolutely get to call the shots on how and where you want it to happen. This is about you, and what you need. If you think your mum being in the room will make you feel loved and safe, great. If you think it will make you feel selfconscious and anxious – she’s barred. If you want a certain type of birth – be that a home birth or a caesarean – but family members don’t agree, show them the evidence behind your choice, and stick to your guns. It’s your party.

A birth plan is not ‘all or nothing’

There are some parts of a plan that

should only go out the window in exceptional circumstances. For example, if you want skin to skin after your baby is born or optimal clamping, this should be available in almost every circumstance. Make sure you are clear with your partner and your care providers that, even if your birth veers a long way off track, there are still some choices that you want to be honoured, no matter what.

Make sure that everyone involved in your birth reads your plan in advance of your labour. Your partner, doula, and any other birth supporters need to have a clear idea of what you want on the day.

Discuss your plan with HCPs especially if you have specific needs or requests that deviate from the ‘norm’. Ask them to record details of conversations and decisions you have made in your notes and to sign your birth plan. These discussions will help your care providers to demonstrate that they have fulfilled their obligation to have a balanced and individual discussion with you about your personal circumstances and risk factors, and you can demonstrate that you have understood the information given to you and that your wishes have been documented. Your birth plan will not have legal status, but it is still evidence that your views and preferences have been discussed and noted.

Make a full plan for caesarean, whether you hope to have one or not

There are lots of choices that you can ask for if your birth takes place in the operating theatre. Learn about ‘woman centred caesarean’ and think about what might be important to you in a surgical birth. Then make a full caesarean plan.

MILLI HILL Author of Give Birth Like a Feminist thepositivebirthmovement.org September 2019

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mama’s

B E AU T Y NOTES Hair, make-up and beauty news for the month ahead

SUN touched KJAER WEIS

we love

Perfect for keeping your summer glow going, Kjaer Weis’s new powder bronzer provides just the right smattering of colour.

We love the natural makeup brand’s brightening eye pencil too. Bronzer €52; Eye pencil €27; kjaerweis.com

SELF CARE BOOBS’ ESSENTIAL

Boobs’ essential’s soothing skin oil elixir helps you initiate a routine of breast massage, to increase awareness of any lumps and stimulate your lymphatic system. The brilliant brand donates £2 from the sale of every bottle to womens’ charities. £34; boobsessential.com

Skin soother GUY MORGAN

Using all natural and 98% certified organic ingredients, Guy Morgan’s gentle Flower of The Five Wounds facial oil has a base of passionflower seed oil to boost radiance.

It doesn’t contain any essential oils or fragrance, making it ideal for sensitive skin and for use during pregnancy. £38; guy-morgan.com

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Plant power

BE AUT Y

n Salo w e i Rev

WILD SOURCE APOTHECARY

Wild Source Apothecary has an organic and plant-based solution for every skincare problem – from protecting against pollution to treating acne. We love their Miracle Oil, a botanical blend bursting with fatty acids, hydrating ingredients and rich nutrients. £36; wildsource.co.uk

A L B I VA at Urban Retreat

P

W o r d s C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

B O TA N I C A L BE AUT Y

reviously a resident on the top floor of Harrods, Urban Retreat has recently opened a luxurious wellness haven just a stone’s throw from the illustrious department store. The White House offers every beauty treatment imaginable from hair styling to lash extensions, and I am booked in for the ALBIVA Advance Repair Nourish and Heal Facial.

I meet my facialist in the sleek bar area. Over a juice, she explains that ALBIVA use a new technology called gemmotherapy to isolate the active ingredients from the embryonic tissues of the plant (the part that contains the most potent healing properties). The brand’s products are 97% natural and 81% certified organic as well as being cruelty free.

The facial itself is designed to stimulate cell regeneration and aid muscle firming and skin tightening. It’s part relaxing and part invigorating. A gentle steam machine, nourishing face mask, and a dreamy shoulder, neck and massage nearly send me to sleep; whilst quick massage movements leave me feeling refreshed.

My skin is definitely glowing afterwards and the next day it feels plump and firm.

ANI SKINCARE

Like a superfood for your face, ANI Skincare’s Rose and Geranium moisturiser is packed with antioxidants to heal and nourish your skin. The brand uses only natural, plant derived ingredients and this gentle cream contains French rose, lavender and geranium. £22; aniskincare.com

5 of t he b e st C L E A N S E RS THE ORGANIC PHARMACY, Cleanser, £43; theorganicpharmacy.com

LUMITY, Cleanser, £55; lumitylife.co.uk HERBAL ESSENTIALS, Cleansing Milk, £20; herbalessentials.com

urbanretreat.co.uk VOTARY, Cleansing Oil, £45; votary.co.uk

DR ROEBUCK’S, Foaming Cleanser, £22; cultbeauty.co.uk

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N U R S E RY T R E N D S A N D I N T E R I O R S P R O D U C T S p .70 I N S I D E L AU R A W I LLI A M S O F T H E M O D E R N N U R S E RY ’ S H O M E p .72

Wigwam Bam LITTLE GREEN SHEEP

This darling teepee is the latest must-have from Little Green Sheep.

It has a unique scalloped edge and is made from 100% cotton canvas, with a five-pole wooden structure for enhanced stability. £89.95; littlegreensheep.co.uk

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N U R S E RY NOTES Helen Baron’s interior picks for the month ahead

FRONT DESK KUTIKAI

As desks go, this one by Polish brand Kutikai is leading in the style stakes. Its sloping roof makes it an excellent drafting table and it doubles as a mini playhouse. £551; smallable.com

we love S O F T LY S O F T LY H U G O M AT

Paving the way (ever so softly) for play time, tummy time and nap time is this mat, made from 100% natural quilted cotton and latex foam for just the right amount of cushioning. A discreet handle makes it easy to shift with one hand (because sometimes that’s all you have free). $180 plus worldwide shipping; hugomat.com

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Shelf Life R AFA KI D S

The already-iconic XL shelf in a new, practical and strictly limited edition in-between size – compact enough to sit well even in a box room, spacious enough to display a decent number of toys and trinkets. Plus, the plywood backboard sets off the white metal rails perfectly. €365; rafa-kids.com

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h o me & interio rs

Box Fresh

NURSERIES

uct prod ew revi

FROM PEA

The latest boutique to inject imagination into children’s interiors, From Pea stocks a curated customisable collection of bedding and delightful decor. These stacking storage crates have been added to our wishlist. £13 each; frompea.com

STO KKE Flexi Bath Range

A

SITTING PRETTY BINIBAMBA

Binibamba has collaborated with French furniture brand Charlie Crane to develop this bespoke merino sheepskin liner for the iconic (and best-selling) Levo rocker chair. What woolly dreams are made of! £95; binibamba.com

5 of t he b e st f or BAC K T O S C H O OL DJECO Metallic Pencils, £4.99; craft s4kids.co.uk DJECO Chic Ruler, £2.75; tickety-boo.co.uk

LOTS OF LOVELY ART Art Box, £27; lotsoflovelyart.org

DJECO Box of Colours, £22.45; craft s4kids.co.uk

baby bath is one of those cumbersome things that’s easily tripped over and always manages to make it look like you’ve not yet tidied away – plus it’s annoying to get in and out of the actual bath. The Stokke Flexi Bath wants to change that.

Stokke’s inspired idea was to create a bath that folds open and shut, with a simple latch mechanism securing it. It’s miraculously lightweight – ideal for storage and travel (though too large for carry-on luggage) – but still sturdy. Another nice touch: the heat-sensitive plug is an indicator of the water temperature: purple is just right while pink means it’s too hot. And of course, it makes for easy draining.

The bath is non-slip and suitable for newborns thanks to an award-winning insert for optimal ergonomics. Surprisingly, the Flexi Bath can be used up to age four but if that seems a stretch, you can upgrade to the Flexi X Large, which is ideal for bath shares. The range comes in cool colourways and offers matching accessories including washcloths and towels. The latest addition is a bath stand for preventing back strain. The handy towel rail and hose make for less crouching and stretching – and more enjoyment of crucial bonding time with your babe. £38; stokke.com

DJECO Magnetic Board, £16.50; jeujouet.co.uk

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A Ta l e o f

TWO SISTERS Laura Williams, founder of The Modern Nursery, shares a peek inside her daughters’ rooms themodernnursery.com

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h o me & interio rs INSPIRATION

Alba’s Room

C A M C A M C O P E N H AG E N

W

hen we first decorated Alba’s room, we designed a newborn pastel nursery, injecting some fun with a bold monochrome wall feature, and included a play space fit for a toddler so she could grow into it! She had a ball pit, beanbags, plenty of wooden toys and a book corner.

As she approached 4 years old, and interior trends were getting a little darker and duskier, we took out the ball pit and added the OYOY Rainbow Wall Rug, and a big girl bed. We added her favourite fun accessories such horse and unicorn soft toys and a gorgeous safari duvet set. The space now suits her needs perfectly, with a bed that will last her into her teens and slightly more grown up accessories, whilst keeping it playful and fun!

Harlequin Shelf, £75; themodernnursery.com

PENGUIN BOOKS

N O B O D I N OZ

get the LOOK

Beanbag, £54 themodernnursery.com

Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls, £20; themodernnursery.com

SEBRA

Bed, £800; themodernnursery.com

OYOY

Rainbow Cushion, £50 themodernnursery.com

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Sylvia’s Happy Childcare is homebased nursery in Queen’s Park. Our aims are to provide outstanding Early Years Education for children through creative hands-on play and learning experiences in a stimulating, safe and relaxed environment.

We want children to feel excited about learning and aim to give them a positive first experience of life.

We are open 50 weeks of the year including school holidays

Monday to Friday from 8:00am - 6:00pm To arrange an appointment to view our nursery or for more information please don’t hesitate to contact us.

www.sylviashappychildcare.london

T: 0208 9602 217 M: 07908 667 509

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05/02/2019 11:37

Join us on August 22 at our London This Mum Is event along with authors Katie Kirby (Hurrah for Gin) and Anna Williamson (Breaking Mum and Dad), as they

Sometimes feel you’re failing at motherhood? ot alone! n e ’r u o y y rr o w ’t n o D

share their own stories of parenting, plus meet other new mums just like you. There’ll be prizes, goodies and a pop-up Gin Bar too.

So, reserve your free space now at thismumis.co.uk

In partnership with

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h o me & interio rs INSPIRATION

Marlowe’s Nursery

W

hen I visualised Marlowe’s nursery, I had the idea that it would be completely different from the room I had designed for Alba. A safe haven that mirrored my love of children’s Scandinavian interiors: simple pale greys, ample dosages of birch plywood, whimsical prints, wooden toys: simple and magical.

I wanted Marlowe’s nursery to be muted, dreamy and sleepy: Scandinavian in form and figure. The room is a shared guest room for when grandparents come to stay so the day bed reduced the amount of room to play with, but we made it work with clever hacks such as the Loullou clothes shelf: a functional design with hanging space, creating a wall feature whilst displaying all of her cute baby clothes!

The colour palette was inspired by a print from Cam Cam Copenhagen: ‘Pressed Leaves’; lashings of dark rose and grey, with accents of mustard. The grey canopy makes for the biggest focus in the room: ethereal and dreamlike over her cot.

LO U L LO U

L a u r a ’s D E CO R AT I N G T I P S FOR SIB LINGS 1 Listen to your eldest child and what they want, there are ways to do a theme such as unicorns and dinosaurs with style!

2 Make use of the time when your baby is young to let loose on your inner interior desires! If you want grey now before they ask for pink; go for it!

3

Display Shelf, £68; themodernnursery.com

Wall stickers are a fab way to create a fantastic look and spruce up a wall with very little commitment. Easy to peel off, they are also great for rentals!

SEBRA

Clouds Mobile, £50; themodernnursery.com

get the LOOK

SEBRA

Bed Canopy, £105; themodernnursery.com

Invest in furniture at the very beginning that will stand the test of time. Our extendable cot beds and junior beds are brilliant, saving you time, and money in the long run and are more friendly for the environment reducing waste.

5

SEBRA

Bed, £800; themodernnursery.com

4

CAM CAM C O P E N H AG E N Quilted Blanket, £48; themodernnursery.com

Nurseries are not just for sleep! Make a space in each room for designated play, add a book corner, a ball pit or a cosy snug. The happier your child is in their room, the more likely that they will want to go to bed when it is time.

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Good Sport PUENTE ROMANO

There’s a wealth of activities on offer at this Marbella resort this September.

The region is perfect for stand-up paddle-boarding, canoeing, flyboarding and hiking (to name a few) and of course, there’s the hotel’s golf and tennis academy. puenteromano.com

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INSPIRATIONS

MOTEL VIBES T H E M AG N O L I A H OT E L

A boutique contemporary hotel that pays homage to the 1950s American motor-hotel, the Magnolia brings a touch of Palm Springs to the Quinta do Lago resort. For families, there are seven unique cottages and suites. themagnoliahotelqdl.com

mama’s

T R AV E L NOTES Helen Baron rounds up the most exciting travel kit and destinations

we love S A N D P L AY

FA M I LY T I M E ROSEWOOD HOTELS

LIEWOOD DESIGN

Immersive, destination-driven experiences are now available at Rosewood Hotels. From visiting an elephant sanctuary to horseback riding through a redwood forest, each programme has been inspired by a sense of place and with families firmly in mind. rosewoodhotels.com

Plastic buckets and spades are a thing of the past. Meet this cute set from Liewood, made from BPA-free wipe-clean silicone. The flexible design means they fold up, so they’re easy to pack away. Time to hit the beach! £37; mollymeg.com

3 N E W K I D S C LU B S

RIXOS THE PALM

Rixos the Palm

Eden Roc

This resort is the first to launch a kids club with a children’s amphitheatre. Kids are invited to dive into all things creative, from sushi-making to archaeological digs.

This year, Eden Roc Miami Beach unveiled a new kids club, available on weekends year-round for youngsters aged 4-12. Activities will focus on preserving beaches and marine life.

The new creche at this Quinta do Lago hotel offers littles time for free play alongside ageappropriate activities. There’s also a kids club for older siblings.

thepalmdubai.rixos.com

edenrochotelmiami.com

fourseasonsfairways.com

DUBAI

MIAMI

Four Seasons Fairways ALGARVE

September 2019

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INTO THE BLUE Alexandra Hunter explores the Greek island of Corfu

DINING WITH SEA VIEWS

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CORFU

XXX DAILY XX XX YOGA XX XX CLASSES XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX

THE BREATHTAKING SEA VIEW AT MARBELLA

I

am embarrassed to say I didn’t take my child abroad until he was 2. The idea of packing nappies, formula, car seat, push chair (I don’t need to go on) filled me with dread, I was anxious about him disturbing other people on flights and in hotels and of disrupting his routines. If I had known about MarBella Corfu I’d have been on the first flight out, this luxury hotel is truly designed to cater for families of all sizes, dynamics and ages.

Corfu is one of the larger Greek islands and is terribly beautiful, and hugging the coastline in the centre is the five-star resort. The popularity of Corfu has increased exponentially with British holiday makers since Keeley Hawes graced our televisions as ‘Mrs Durrells’; always looking impossibly elegant against a backdrop of old white washed buildings and azure water.

When I was a teenager Corfu had a reputation for hedonistic package holidays and I’m sure these can still be had but there is something magical about the island. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with an ancient fortress dominating the landscape, views from the top stretch across the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta roofs of the town below

glow orange in the brilliant sunshine. Prince Philip was born here, allegedly on a kitchen table, at villa Mon Repos (the Greek royals’ summer home) and there are numerous villages, coastlines and museums to explore.

The hotel is extensive, luxurious and able to look after 1,000 guests when at full capacity and yet it ensures that the needs of every guest are met. The staff are friendly, professional, knowledgeable and helpful. Our room was large and the beds were exceptionally comfortable, almost the most important thing on a holiday, anything is forgiven after a good night’s sleep, particularly as a parent. A private balcony with loungers looked out over the sea and was the perfect spot for a glass of wine (a delicious Greek red, left as a welcome gift) or a morning coffee with a book. Suites are available for families with partitioned rooms, private pools and all the paraphernalia that you need for a baby is ready and waiting for you.

Entertaining children on holiday can be tricky, they need a range of activities that are fun, engaging and tiring, with people who understand them. MarBella Corfu expertly caters for children of all ages. A creche is available for tinies from 4 months to 3 years and the kids club offers tennis, a football academy, table tennis, robotics and ceramics lessons for older children. A predictably popular splash park is on site, babysitting

“This luxury hotel is truly designed to cater for families of all sizes, dynamics and ages”

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ARE YOU STRUGGLING WITH CHILDCARE?

Here at Baby Steps Nannies we aim to make the search for a nanny as seamless and pain free as possible!

We pride ourselves on providing a bespoke and personal service depending on your individual requirements, whether you need a full time live in nanny or after school help, we aim to find the perfect childcare solution for you.

If you want to know more, we are always on the end of the phone so give us a call on 0208 652 9949. Whether you are just curious as to what we do or if you want a hand with your search, we are happy to help.

Baby Steps Nannies Ltd babystepsnanniesltd @babystepsnanny

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

www.babystepsnannies.co.uk BSN.indd 1

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CORFU

UPSCALE DÉCOR

“Each pair of loungers is shaded by a coconut style umbrella, complete with a bell for service” is available and evening entertainment is organised while adults dine in any of the six restaurants located on the resort.

Fresh and salt water pools are found in the centre of the grounds, with a vast number of terraces that offer seclusion if needed, of course with full waiter service. We regularly found ourselves at the Dolphin Beach Bar and restaurant, falling onto a lounger for a siesta after a traditional Greek lunch. The hotel’s beach is private and idyllic, the sea

is incredibly calm and the next beach along offers a range of equipment for water sports if you’re so inclined. Each pair of loungers is shaded by a coconut style umbrella, complete with a bell for service. Despite the hotel boasting an impressive 85% occupancy all of the time, we didn’t feel that we couldn’t escape the hustle and bustle or find quiet spots. A small spa is tucked under the main hotel, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in the range of treatments available. The products are all Apivita (inspired by Greek nature) the brand uses honey from their own hives and the oils in the aromatherapy range are divine.

A sauna and steam room are on site and are wonderful after a dip in the slightly cooler salt water pool or on return from a swim in the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. We played tennis on the hotel’s courts and the gym offers a range of classes from HIIT to aerial yoga.

I had every intention of daily yoga but my routine happily lapsed as I relaxed.

A choice of five restaurants ensures that you do not need to leave the resort to seek variety of cuisine, we ate in the main restaurant, the Greek restaurant and Dolphin’s on the beach. Live music is performed every evening after dinner and the terrace becomes a spectacular outdoor cinema on certain evenings throughout the

SECLUDED AREAS BY THE POOL

summer. The main restaurant offers an international buffet daily and it’s delicious.

The hotel uses produce from the island wherever possible, the wines are all Greek and the olive oil and honey is all locally sourced.

Taxis can be arranged for excursions and a bus runs directly from the hotel into town regularly. A boat trip is available taking you along the coast from the hotel directly into Corfu Old Town. Walk around the streets – the churches are spectacular, the bars are trendy and there are a couple of gems in amongst all the tourist shops. After a wander around the town, the fort and the wonderful fresh food market we found Fishalida, for an excellent fish lunch. We wanted to explore the south of the island, it’s less developed with beautiful secluded beaches and a plethora of small family run restaurants. The receptionist advised us where to go and half an hour later we were eating calamari and koftas, watching waves gently lap the small boat tied to a jetty that the owner had been out fishing on that morning.

There’s no minimum stay at MarBella and packages range from half board to ultra all inclusive, a single parent package is available for 2019 and with this option children go free.

If you want to truly escape the kids then leave them at home and stay at the luxurious adults only MarBella Nido Suite Hotel & Villas which opened last year. marbellabeachcorfu.com September 2019 | 83

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Rudding Park H A R R O G AT E

The Hotel

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n elegant grade I listed Georgian building, Rudding Park is set in acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s become a real destination for babymooners and couples in need of some relaxation, due to a huge spa extension which opened in 2017. The vibe is traditional-meets-modern, with plenty of quirky art hanging from the walls.

The Room THE ROOFTOP SPA AREA AT RUDDING PARK

Keepin g

House

Absolutely Mama escapes to Yorkshire for two relaxing stately home stays W o r d s C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

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e stayed in one of the spa rooms, with a pretty private garden.

The décor was a contemporary interpretation of countryside chic, with a huge king-size bed. There were plenty of thoughtful touches (including a pillow menu) but the real draw of this room is bathroom, which had a luxurious hammam shower and a roll-top bath.

The hotel can book interconnecting suites, but if you’re visiting with little ones check out their brilliant family rooms.

The Spa

T

he spa at Rudding Park is one of the most impressive I’ve visited. On the ground floor, there’s a juniper-log sauna and a 17-foot swimming pool. Little ones can

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THE BABYMOON RITUAL AT RUDDING PARK

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Things to do

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f you’re visiting for the weekend you probably won’t want to leave the beautiful grounds (and the spa!) at Rudding Park.

Kids will love running around the 300 acres of landscaped gardens, whilst grown-ups can unwind on the terrace with afternoon tea or book a course of golf.

enjoy limited access to the pool – so one parent can watch the kids, whilst the other sneaks off for a little bit of me-time. Upstairs, there’s a beautiful rooftop garden with a hydrotherapy pool, an outdoor log cabin sauna and endless treatment rooms to enjoy – including an oxygen chamber and sunlight therapy area (great for pregnancy). I had an indulgent facial downstairs, which was so relaxing I nearly drifted off several times. The spa also offers a Babymoon Ritual for couples as well as pregnancy massage.

The Food

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he hotel has two restaurants and we dined in both. We had a delicious lunch in the airy Clocktower Restaurant and Bar and we had dinner in the hotel’s 3 AA Rosette Horto Restaurant. A sleek and contemporary-style luxury fine dining experience, we opted for the chef’s tasting menu, and I was really impressed that they had created a vegan and gluten free-version for me. We were served no less than nine imaginative courses (with wine pairings) and enjoyed dishes such as celeriac with truffle and wakame seaweed and Cornish turbot with mussels and leek. We also had breakfast at Horto, and there were lots of great options including gluten and dairy-free pancakes. Both restaurants can provide a menu for kids.

TRADITIONAL-MEETS-MODERN DÉCOR AT RUDDING PARK

 Rudding Park’s Babymoon Experience costs £525 per room based on two people sharing and is available to book until 31st March 2020.

The price includes an overnight stay for two in a Follifoot Wing Room, 25 minute Babymoon Bath Ritual in the couple’s treatment room, 50-minute treatment side by side, a Babysecco ‘for her’ and a glass of Champagne ‘for him’, dinner at Clocktower and breakfast. For further information, please visit ruddingpark.co.uk/sleep/ babymoon-experience/ or call 01423 844822

The Grange Hotel YORK

The Hotel

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erfectly located for exploring the pretty windy streets of York, The Grange Hotel is just a few minutes walk from the town centre (but just far enough away from the crowds of tourists). The building is an elegant Georgian townhouse steeped in ivy and the décor inside stays true to its roots – with a grand sweeping staircase and granite pillars.

The Room

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e stayed in The Suite, a traditional regency-style decorated space large enough to feel like a real home from home. A spacious hallway with a walk-in wardrobe led to family living room with a foldout sofa. The bedroom had a comfy king-size bed, dressing table and a mounted TV on the wall for watching films before bedtime. The bathroom had one of the biggest baths I’ve ever seen, plenty big enough for several little ones to splash about in. Impressively, it also had a huge separate rainfall power shower. The hotel can provide travel cots, Z beds and synthetic bedding for allergy suffers, and also book interconnecting rooms if required.

REGENCY-STYLE DÉCOR AT THE GRANGE

The Food

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e ate in The Ivy Brasserie, the hotel’s two AA Rosette restaurant.

Downstairs in the converted cellars, it has an atmospheric feel with exposed brickwork and candlelight setting the mood.

We enjoyed our meal, a particular highlight being a delicious light sponge cake dessert made with almond flour. We also had a cooked breakfast delivered to our room the next morning.

Things to do

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ork is a picturesque town, perfect for getting lost in. Mini guests staying at The Grange this summer will receive a printout trail around the city inviting them to find the hotel’s resident pooch Buster and his friend Yorkie (a Yorkshire terrier). For grown-ups, there’s a huge Bettys tea room and the up-from-London contingent will be pleased to see there’s and plenty of great restaurants, shops and pubs. The cathedral is a short walk from the hotel, and the famous Jorvik Viking Centre is only about 20 minutes away on foot – a brilliant day out for kids.

 Family Suites at the Grange Hotel start from £275.00 per room per night, and interconnecting rooms start from £180.00 per room per night, both including full English breakfast. To book visit grangehotel.co.uk or call 01904 644744 September 2019 | 85

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‘ Enjoying childhood and realising our imagination.’

“My favourite thing about Dallington School is that the teachers and students are very friendly and positive, there is a brilliant atmosphere in the classroom” - Johan “I think Dallington teaches you in a way no other school does and I really enjoy that” - Alex Dallington is a family-run co-educational independent school, with a nursery, in the heart of London.

Personal tours each day of the week, except Wednesday.

Next Open Evening: Thursday 3rd October 2019 from 6 to 8 pm

Headteacher: Maria Blake Proprietor and Founder: Mogg Hercules MBE Email: hercules@dallingtonschool.co.uk Phone: 020 7251 2284 www.dallingtonschool.co.uk USE.indd 1

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resources F I N D I N G A LO N G T E R M FA M I LY H O M E p . 8 9 W H AT TO D O I F YO U R C H I LD I S W I R E D D I F F E R E N T LY p . 91

Word Up BANJO ROBINSON

Here’s a bright idea: sign up with globetrotting penpal Banjo (the brainchild of London storyteller Kate Boyle) and he’ll send personalised letters to your child including stickers, maps and tales of the cultures he encounters as he travels the world. They write back – and a creative friendship begins. banjorobinson.com

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mama

PUTTING down ROOTS Finding a long term family home

W

hen you’re looking for a family home, you’re not only looking for the family you have now. This makes the task a tricky one. Any home you buy should be futureproof to remain suitable for the family that yours will become: children grow fast and if you’re looking for somewhere long term, you need to take this into account. The open-plan cooking and living area that enables you to keep an eye on a crawling baby and a climbing toddler might not be so handy when you have a five year-old who wants to watch non-stop Barbie

animations, an eight year-old with a drumkit or a 12 year-old with a Fortnite habit. In situations such as these, openplan can quickly lose its appeal.

While finding the right house can be a challenge, you don’t have to go it alone – that’s where the experts come in. Maxine Harris, Sales Manager at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward (KFH) in Beckenham, has over 20 years of experience in advising families and she says: “When looking for a family home you will need to consider four things: size, practicality, location and safety. In terms of size, I always advise my clients who are looking to extend their family, to think about whether the bedrooms are big enough, or if there is space to

NICOLE FURRER Lettings Manager, KFH Crouch End

MAXINE HARRIS Sales Manager, KFH Beckenham

PROMOTION

create a playroom.” She advises people to take their children to viewings and let them choose their own rooms, and have a checklist of other criteria too. “Consider factors such as school catchment areas, nurseries, transport links, amenities, doctors surgeries and dentists, and whether there are other families living on that street,” she says. It’s also important to think about practical details such as storage space and whether there’s potential to extend in the future. Plus, “small children love to be outside, so take into account the garden space or local green spaces during your property search,” says Maxine.

Everyone’s journey is different, and families who are going to be renting long term also need to think about these factors. Nicole Furrer, Lettings Manager at KFH in Crouch End, also urges families to carefully consider if open-plan living is right for them. She recommends: “Families of different ages, including teenagers, should consider a property with separate living spaces.

This allows you to break up the space for individual activities. Conservatories, outbuildings and summer houses are all increasingly popular criteria with renters as they provide additional space inside and outside the home.” The flexibility offered by these kinds of extra space can be invaluable when a family’s needs shift. “It’s really important to consider how you might need the space to work for you now, if a new baby comes, and when the little ones have grown,” she maintains. Remember, life doesn’t stay the same for long when you have a family.

At KFH we regularly advise and find properties for families of all ages and stages of life. We have over 60 branches across London, so even if you continue your search in another location, our team of sales and lettings experts are on hand to assist you in every step of your journey. kfh .co.uk September 2019

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reso ur c es ADVICE CHILDREN WITH 'ORCHID' TEMPERAMENTS NEED SPCIAL CARE TO NURTURE THEIR GROWTH

WHAT ’S WRONG? Coming to terms with the fact that your child is wired differently can be hard, says a parenting expert Wo r d s E L A I N E H A L L I G A N

S

ociety favours children and adults who conform. We are quick to judge those who present differently.

If our children behave inappropriately we often believe the behaviour is a reflection of our parenting.

The notion that our children may be less acceptable for being different breaks our hearts and being judged by others can be one of a parent’s biggest fears. It is something I experience often, as I am the parent of a child who is different. His sensitive, intense and impulsive temperament meant that at home and at school his behaviour was problematic.

So problematic that by the age of seven he had been excluded from his third school in so many years. His self-esteem was shattered and his educational prospects were effectively written off. I sensed that Sam was different from an early age, at playgroups when the

other kids would be getting stuck into messy play with sand and mud and finger paints, Sam would be disengaged and wandering off to do something else. He hated having foods touching on his plate and would complain vociferously if the ketchup touched his chips. Hair washing elicited such screams that the neighbours would be forgiven for thinking we were sticking hot needles in his eyes. Instead of wearing a coat and trousers in Baltic winter conditions, he would leave the house electing to wear shorts, earning me many disapproving looks.

We bought into the parenting myth that what he needed was good old-fashioned discipline, so we nagged, repeated instructions, cajoled, bribed, threatened and punished. I quickly became a shoutaholic. We had no idea how to get the best out of him as we didn’t understand his needs or his temperament, and very quickly our sweet boy became labelled as ‘the naughty one'.

Our son’s needs were varied and complex and although we now know he is severely dyslexic, he was diagnosed with so many three September 2019 | 91

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Bickiepegs Natural Teething Biscuits have been made to the same recipe of 3 ingredients and no added salt or sugar since 1925.

An alternative to a plastic teething ring their finger shape reaches the front and back of the mouth. The strong surface can help ease teething pain as teeth ‘cut’ through gums and baby exercises their jaw muscles, vital for developing chewing skills required when moving onto solid food.

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The Bickiepegs Finger Toothbrush & Gum Massager fits over an adults finger. Dual sided it has soft bumps to soothe teething gums plus fine bristles ideal for brushing those first teeth.

Recommended by Health Professionals and trusted by parents, Bickiepegs products are available at Asda, Amazon, Boots, Ocado, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Pharmacies and Baby product stores.

www.bickiepegs.com

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reso ur c es ADVICE

with the world, but biology is not destiny. Parents play a vital role in unlocking their child’s potential and, through positive parenting and understanding, there is hope. So, if you have a child who is wired differently what steps can you take to support him or her?

“He was diagnosed with so many threeletter abbreviations that he became known as the Alphabet Kid”

letter abbreviations he became known as the Alphabet Kid. First it was Autistic Spectrum disorder (ASD), then Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). The professionals then threw in a bit of Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) for good measure – and when finally we were told that our son had Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) I came home and cried.

Parents’ observations of their children are usually astute and I often tell clients that they are the expert on their child. It may be that you don’t know what the problem is but you sense something is not right. You may have started to catastrophise as you know the stakes get higher as they get older. We all want to ensure our children are happy and successful and that they enter adult life as resilient people, able to cope with whatever life throws at them.

We sensed our son was a good and capable boy with a strong moral compass. On many occasions he couldn't help what he did. When we asked him why he had thrown my prized Jo Malone candle on the floor, he said: “I don’t know. I just could not help myself". He was impulsive and lacked self-control but that did not make him a bad person. Sam was a child with an ‘orchid’ temperament, meaning that he needed special care to nurture his growth, whereas his sister was a ‘dandelion’: robust and resilient, and able to thrive anywhere. Our children are born with a temperament that provides their default position for interaction

BUILD STRONG SELF-ESTEEM

Children behave better, take more responsibility, try new things and are more resilient when they have good selfesteem. Approve and affirm them by commenting on what they are doing well, rather than focusing your attention on the more challenging behaviour.

Criticism is de-motivating and lowers self-esteem.

BE YOUR CHILD’S EMOTION COACH

How your child feels influences their behaviour. We need to help our children recognise and manage their emotions.

This means accepting all their feelings and letting them know we understand. It doesn’t mean you permit poor behaviour.

REALISE THAT ALL BEHAVIOUR HAS A CAUSE

When we understand what is causing bad behaviour we can remain calm and help children learn from it. The bad behaviour may have a very simple cause – perhaps they are tired, bored, hungry or unwell – or it could be more complex. They could be expressing an emotion, their brains are immature, they have a different agenda from ours, we are being inconsistent or perhaps we are modelling poor behaviours.

like that. Please use your strong voice and that way I can listen'.

Two key positive factors for us were getting our son into the right educational environment and doing positive parenting courses. We experienced such transformational results that I retrained as a parenting coach. Now I’m a director of The Parent Practice and have a new sense of purpose to my life, helping parents understand their children and guiding them to maximise children's strengths and unlock their potential.

DON’T PUNISH

Punishment is often delivered in anger and with criticism, and it makes children feel badly about themselves. No learning can take place when a child feels resentful, and it often results in rebellion. Problem-solve with your child and teach consequences. When a child whines, instead of criticising and scolding them, try to say something like: 'It’s hard for me to hear you

ELAINE HALLIGAN London director of The Parent Practice theparentpractice.com September 2019 | 93

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Lou LEHANE

Lou Lehane is the founder and director of Baby Steps Nannies, a bespoke independent nanny agency who pride themselves on a personalised and friendly childcare placement service. babystepsnannies.co.uk

Ask the

EXPERTS Q

&

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Parenting and medical professionals, as well as leading entrepreneurs, answer some of your most pressing questions 94

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Q Should I choose a nanny or a nursery?

A We often speak to parents who are weighing up the multiple childcare options of nanny vs nursery, if a childminder would be a better fit or should we have an au pair to help out? There are so many childcare solutions out there that it is sometimes difficult to establish what would be the best fit for your family in particular. A nanny allows parents the peace of mind that your child/children are being given one-to-one care specific to their capabilities and personality. A nanny works from your home, where your child is surrounded by their own toys and home comforts, providing an easy transition for when parents head off for a busy day at work. Nannies are experienced individuals who have great knowledge of the developmental stages of childhood, which could be invaluable for parents who may be new to it all!

Imagine having the peace of mind, of going away or going to work knowing that your little one is being looked after by a professional who knows everything about them, whether they like butter on their toast or what teddy they take to bed. A nanny is not just a childcare solution but also an extension of the family, and any family that has had their very own Mary Poppins I have no doubt will agree.

“A NANNY IS NOT JUST A CHILDCARE SOLUTION BUT ALSO AN EXTENSION OF THE FAMILY�

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Heather MORRIS

Heather Morris is a Registered General Nurse and State Certified Midwife. She is mum to Freddy, Harry and Jack. metanium.co.uk Q My little one has just got her fi rst tooth coming through and now she’s got a sore bum. Does teething cause nappy rash?

A Teething usually begins at around six months and your baby may seem ‘out of sorts’ at this time. Although there’s no real clinical evidence of a link between nappy rash and teething, many parents say their baby gets a sore bum

when their teeth are coming through.

Teething doesn’t cause nappy rash but all the extra dribble your teething baby produces can lead to looser stools. This is sometimes called teething-induced diarrhoea which can irritate your baby’s delicate skin, meaning there’s more chance of nappy rash developing.

Wherever you are, try to change wet or soiled nappies as soon as possible.

Young babies may need changing as many as 10 or 12 times a day; older babies around six to eight times. Using a barrier ointment or lotion, such as Metanium, even when you’re away from home, will help protect your little one from irritants like poo and wee that can cause nappy rash.

Claire MAGEE

Claire Magee is the MD at Nannycare, specialists in goat milk based nutrition for babies. nannycare.co.uk Q What’s the difference between cow’s milk and goat milk-based follow-on formulas?

A Traditionally, follow-on milks have all been based on cow’s milk, most probably due to the abundance of cow’s milk and its readily available by-products. However, according to research firm Mintel, UK sales in alternative milks to cow’s milk have grown by 30% since 2015 because of a growing interest among adults.

Increasingly, parents also want to have choice for their babies too. Goat milkbased follow-on formula, for the first time, provides that genuine choice.

Importantly, parents can also be assured that it is safe and approved.

Following an extensive clinical trial with Nannycare, since March 2014, goat milk-based formula is now recognised under UK legislation as a safe and suitable alternative to cow’s milk formula*. While goat milk has a reputation for having a strong taste, at Nannycare we know how to handle it to ensure this doesn’t happen, so our follow-on formulas will always have a mild and creamy taste that babies love.

Nannycare is now available in many branches of Boots (or boots.com) and major supermarkets.

Careline UK: 0800 328 5826 ROI: 1800 937 375 enquiry@nannycare.co.uk Important notice: Breastfeeding is best for your baby and should continue for as long as possible.

Nannycare follow-on milk is for babies over 6 months, as part of a varied weaning diet. It should not be used as a breast milk substitute before this age and should be used on the advice of a healthcare professional.

NOTE: Goat milk formula should not be given to babies with cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a healthcare professional. *Directive 2006/141 (EC) and equivalent UK legislation

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We’re here to help when you and your family are ready to find your new home. Visit kfh.co.uk 9864_KFH_Spring Campaign_Absolutely Mama_Banner_420x28_art_v2.indd 1

Henry Fawcett Community Nursery (Leaf ) Clayton St, London SE11 5BZ 020 7582 0509

to know Mama’s guide to London’s best nurseries and preschools

Base Zero Nursery Happy Days 109A Randlesdown Rd, Gramsci Way, London, SE6 3HB 020 8461 3510 The Villa 54 Lyndhurst Grove, London SE15 5AH 0207 703 6216 Chairbears Day Nursery 9-12 Deptford Broadway, London SE84PA 020 8305 6588

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North Bridge House Nursery School/Pre-Prep 33 Fitzjohn’s Ave, Camden Town, London NW3 5JY 020 7267 6266

Les Trois Oursons 4 Collins Yard, London N1 2XU 020 7099 0452

Hatching Dragon Nursery School 1 Viscount St, London EC1Y 0AA 020 7256 9365

Little Stars Nursery 58 Allen Rd, Stoke Newington, London N16 8RZ 020 7254 4367

Sahan Preschool Day Nursery 12 Stukeley Rd, London, E7 9QZ 020 3719 7002

The Mulberry House School 7 Minster Road, London, NW2 3SD 020 8452 7340 Living Spring Montessori St Michael’s Church Annexe, St Michael’s Road, London, NW2 6XG 020 8830 7331 Nuffy Bear Nursery Brondesbury Park Fitness & Wellbeing Centre, Sidmouth Road, London, NW2 5JY 020 3432 8708

Sylvia's Happy Childcare 119a Chevening Road, London, NW6 6DU 020 8960 2217

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Puddleducks Nurseries Puddleducks House, r/o 75 Friern Barnet Road, London NW3 5JY 020 7267 6266 Hackney Care For Kids 61 Evering Rd, London N16 7PR 020 7923 3471 William Patten Daycare Nursery William Patten School, Stoke Newington Church St, Stoke Newington, London N16 0NX 020 3844 4227 Creative Explorers Day Nursery 18 Gisburn Rd, London N8 7BS 07956 809748

Oliver Thomas Nursery School 1 Mathews Ave, London, E6 6BU 020 8552 1177

The Lyceum Nursery 6 Paul Street, City of London, London, EC2A 4JH registrar@lyceumschool.co.uk lyceumschool.co.uk 020 7247 1588

SOUT H E AST Dulwich Montessori Nursery School St Stephen’s Church, College Road, Dulwich, London SE21 7HN 0208 766 0091

Eaton Square Nursery School, Belgravia 28 & 30 Eccleston Street, London SW1W 9PY Eaton Square Nursery School, Knightsbridge Rutland Gardens, London SW7 1BX Eaton Square Nursery School, Pimlico 32a Lupus Street, London SW1V 3DZ nursery@eatonsquareschool.com eatonsquareschool.com 020 7931 9469 The Knightsbridge Kindergarten St Peter’s Church, 119 Eaton Square, London SW1W 9AL 020 7371 2306 The Willcocks Nursery School Holy Trinity With All Saints Church, Prince Consort Road, London, SW7 2BA 020 7584 5054

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reso urces DIRECTORY

London. Property. We get it.

07/05/2019 10:37

Melrose House 55 Finlay St, Fulham SW6 6HF 020 7736 9296

Wee Ones Nursery 4 St Ann’s Cresent, London SW18 2LR 0208 870 7729

Hatching Dragons Westminster Units 3&4 Westminster Quarter, 2 Monck street, London, SW1P 2BQ 0203 912 2902

The Orchard Day Nursery 201-203 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1NL 020 3880 7373

Tadpoles Nursery School 68 Park Walk, Chelsea, London SW10 0NQ 020 7352 9757 The Barnes Village Nursery 3A Station Rd, London SW13 0LP 020 8878 5111 Gwendolen House 39 Gwendolen Ave SW15 6EH 0203 441 2450 London Early Years Foundation 121 Marsham St, Westminster, London SW1P 4LX 020 7834 8679 One World Nursery 9 Knowle Cl, London SW9 0TQ 020 7924 9505 Dee’s Day Nursery (Wimbledon) 2 Mansel Rd, Wimbledon, London SW19 4AA 020 8944 0284 Learning Ladders Nursery Ground Floor, Falkner Court, Francis Chichester Way, London SW11 5HX 020 7622 9300 Kiddi Caru Day Nursery 2 Piazza Buildings Empress State, London SW6 1TW 0207 386 4505 Tiggers Nursery School, Putney 87 Putney Bridge Rd, London SW15 2PA 020 8874 4668

Tiny Thinkers Childcare 192 Tudor Drive, Kingston upon Thames KT2 5QG 0203 441 2450

W EST Little Chepstow Nursery 108 Lancaster Road, W11 1QS 0207 243 0243 Rolfe’s Nursery School The Little House, 34a Oxford Gardens, London, W10 5UQ 020 8969 5805 New Studio Pre-School Kelfield Mews, Kelfield Gardens, London, W10 6LS 020 8969 5805 Denbigh Under Fives Group 5b Denbigh Road, Denbigh Road, London, W11 2SJ 020 7221 5318 Kids Unlimited 34 Ladbroke Grove, London W11 3BQ 0845 365 2918 St Peter’s Nursery School 59a Portobello Road, London W11 3DB 020 7243 2617 Ladbroke Square Montessori School 43 Ladbroke Square, London W11 3ND 020 7229 0125 The Square School 18 Holland Park Avenue, London W11 3QU 020 7221 6004

Holland Park Nursery School Kenley Walk Hall, Kenley Walk, London W11 4BA 020 7792 0323 Jack in the Box Kelmscott Community Hall, Ashchurch Grove, White City, London W12 9BT 020 8811 8099 Stepping Stones Nursery 5 Gayford Road, London W12 9BY 020 8811 1646 Bright Sparks Montessori School 142 Sinclair Road, London, W14 0NL 020 7371 4697 Vanessa Nursery 12 Cathnor Road, London W12 6JA 020 8743 8196 Little Owls Nursery 108 Lakeside Rd, London W14 0DY 020 3266 0044 The Kensington Kindergarten St Barnabas Church, 23 Addison Rd, Kensington, London W14 8LH 020 7371 4848

Iverna Gardens Montessori Nursery School Armenian Church Hall, Iverna Gardens, London W8 6TP 020 7937 0794 Caterpillar Montessori PO Box 105 11 London W4 5WU W4 5LG 020 8747 8531 Maggie and Rose 55 Finlay St, Fulham SW6 6HF 020 7736 9296 Millie’s House Nursery and Pre-School Distillery Lane, Fulham Reach W6 9US 020 8748 4303 Windham Nursery School Windham Road, Richmond, Surrey, London TW9 2HP 0208 831 6060 Merchant Square Day Nursery 13 Harbet Rd, Paddington, London W2 1AJ 020 7402 2227 Busy Bees at Hammersmith 3 Bute Gardens, London W6 7DR 0208 741 9945

Millie’s House Nursery and Pre-School Distillery Ln, London W6 9PL 020 8748 4303

The Corner House Day Nursery 82 Lavington Rd, London W13 9LR 020 8567 2806

One World Montessori and Pre-Preparatory 69 - 71 Brook Green, London W6 7BE 020 7603 6065

Bunny Park Day Nursery & Nursery School 37 Manor Court Rd, London W7 3EJ 020 8567 6142

Little Cherubs Nursery School Our Lady Of Victories Church Hall, 16a Abingdon Road, London W8 6AF 07810 712241

Hatching Dragons Twickenham 2 The Green, Twickenham, London, TW2 5AA 0203 912 2901

Carmelite Parish Centre Pitt Street W8 4JH 07810 712241

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TRIED & TESTED

IN DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

r e s ou rces REVIEWS

Bump & Baby Club

B

Reviewed by GRETEL FORTE

Avery Row Playmat

A

R e v i e w e d b y J OA N N A M AC K I E

very Row has come up with the perfect solution for baby and toddler play time in the non-toxic EVA foam Roam at Home mat. With a non-slip shock absorbent surface, the mat is suitable from 10 months and provides a practical cushioned area for little ones to play on and it can be wiped clean, meaning you don’t have to worry about inevitable spills. It’s also reassuring to know that it has been tested in the UK to ensure it complies with EU safety standards and is free from all harsh chemicals, including formamide.

We found the mat easy and fun to put together. It comes in a handy storage bag and is made up of 36

individual pieces that fit together like a jigsaw to make a 178 x 116cm rectangle shape. If you are limited for space, it can also be assembled in different combinations depending on your requirements.

I love the subtle geometric design of the Roam at Home tiles and it looks as good in our living room as it does in the kids’ playroom. It will make the perfect base for tummy time, as well as learning to crawl and walk later down the line!  £75; avery-row.com

illed as the ‘modern alternative’ to traditional antenatal classes, Bump & Baby Club runs regular courses across London (with further classes outside the capital). The courses run over five weeks and each session lasts around two hours. Led by trained midwives, classes are often held in a local pub, which keeps the vibe casual and welcoming.

The first two classes are dedicated to labour and birth. Designed to help prepare you for any eventuality (whatever your birth plan) we thought they were extremely well-balanced.

The third class covers the fourth trimester, and the fourth lesson is dedicated to infant feeding, giving a step-by-step guide to both breast and bottle-feeding (a significant departure from some of the more established courses). The fifth and final class covers first aid – again not an area that other courses always cover. The course culminates in tea at one of the participants’ homes, with catering supplied by Gail’s Bakery.

Class reunions are scheduled for a few months down the line, so everyone can meet up with newborns in tow.

Personally, I was relieved by the judgement-free philosophy at Bump & Baby. The course leaders have absolutely no preconceived ideas about what parenthood should look like, beyond providing a safe and nurturing environment for children.  bumpandbabyclub.com

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