May - June Issue 2014

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Nickie Evans
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0208 440 1159
07957 731 617
Arts Editor
Cindy Evans
Website & Design
Emily Hewett, I am Emily
contact@iamemily.co.uk
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Dean@chimpmysite.co.uk
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How is everyone doing? I hope you all had a good Easter break and your children have all settled back
in at school. Ive had a busy few weeks so far what with celebrating my littlest ones 3 birthday and
about to celebrate my oldest daughters 13 birthday (boy do I feel old )
We have an extremely packed issue this month full of editorials, exclusives, features and an extended
Reviews and Clothing section but we also kick-start our Home & Furnishings feature pages in finding
out all the latest furniture and accessories for your child and also your home. This month we are
showcasing Room to Grow, a fabulous company who really have amazing products (most of which
are within the average / affordable price bracket I hasten to add!) Next month we are also launching
our Guide to Family Travel where we will find the best deals, the best accessories - in fact just
everything you need to make your family holiday as easy and stress free as possible.
We have a fabulous interview with Apprentice Winner Tom Pellereau as our Celebrity Parent in
Business and next month we are looking forward to featuring Michelle Heaton in anticipation of her
Fitness DVD being showcased at the Baby Show, Birmingham this weekend. Perhaps our biggest piece
of exciting news is that we have a new resident fitness expert on our panel, Ruben Tabares! Ruben
is one of the most in-demand strength and conditioning coaches in the world and he boasts a client
list with the likes of the former World Heavyweight Champion Boxer David Haye. Former light
welterweight champion, Amir Khan. Actor Mickey Rourke and rapper Tinie Tempah, Ruben's
world-renowned approach to weight loss, strength and condition, as well as nutrition, continues to
attract some of the most elite clients from around the world and now we have the privilege of getting
his insight, knowledge and experience to guide us too!
Wishing you all a wonderful month, Nickie x
Business & Successes
P.07 Parents in Business
P.07 Enterprising Mums - Getting Social
Media Right
P.13 Celebrity Parent Profile - Tom Pellereau
P.22 Cuddledry - Celebrates more global
success
P.48 Business Card Directory Section
P.79 And the Awards go to Belle Enfants
Regulars
P.05 Welcome to the World Feature
P.48 The Buggy Network - Chin Up - Butter
Cup
P.70 Busy Bees Benefits - Plan now for the
Summer Holidays
P.76 How much damage? By Elizabeth
Hobson.
Baby Buzz Family Travel Guide
P.67 Embers Camping - Launches new site
P.68 Lapping up the luxury in Tenerife!
P.77 By George - UK Toddlers are Taking Off!
News & Reviews
P.50 Book Reviews - Toddlers - 6 Years
P.51 Book Reviews - For the Parents
P.52 Book Reviews - For School Age
P.53 Travel System & Pushchair Reviews
P.55 Maternity Wear - Tiffany Rose
P.56 Health & Beauty Reviews
P.57 Baby Products & Essentials Reviews
P.58 Fun & Games Reviews
P.59 Food, Kitchen & Gadget Reviews
P.60 Restaurant Reviews - Giraffe
P.69 Travel Accessories Reviews
P.71 VW - Car Review
Exclusives
P.24 Kids want an extra hour in school - with
Weetabix and Mo Farah
Ultimate Sports Day - Enter for your chance
to win!!
P.42 Happy Fathers Day to these and all the
wonderful daddys out there!
P.46 Make a wish Kids Drawing Campaign -
judged by Peter Andre
Lifestyle
P.06 Little Signers Club- Signing Fun for Everyone
P.15 Rocket Lawyer - Legal Advice
P.16 Denise Van Outen joins Alton Towers
Resort for Cbeebies
P.18 National Smile Month - Giraffe!
Beckham children named as most stylish
P.20 Top Tips to be School Satchel Savvy - with
The Money Advice Service
P.29 Which? Top 10 Car Seat Fitting Checks
P.32 Being the last one picked, by Kristen Harding
P.34 My Letter to You
P.35 One Plus One - Splitting Up? Put Kids First
P.36 UK First Time Parents spend 492 million
preparing for baby!
P.73 Leapfrog launches LeapBand
Shnuggle joins iCandy as Red Dot Design
winner
P.74 Three words to remember, by Truprint
Lack of sign ups to Government free
parenting course!
P.75 Vivofoot - One Step Ahead!
Fashion Focus
P.20 Little Fashion Gallery - Re-launches
website
Food & Recipes
P.30 Cut the Junk from our Childrens Food
P.38 Organix Recipes
Health & Wellbeing
P.21 Sleep, A View from the Other Side -
Child Sleep Works
P.26 Healthy Mum, Happy Baby - Ruben
Tabares
P.28 Allergy UK - Lactose Intolerance?
P.31 Jo Megilley - Q&As
P.33 Human Race - Cycletta Exclusive
P.37 Birth Your Way, Michelle Eshkeri
P.44 One size does not fit all!
P.47 Murad - Taking care of your skin the
right way!
P.49 A Labour of Love, by Abi Adams
P.78 5 Top Reasons For Dads to carry their
baby - By Slumberoo
Grow & Keep Your Own
P.40 The Baby Buzz Get Growing Challenge
P.41 Dawn Isaac - Top Tips for May/June
Shopping & Gift Guide
P.61 Tiffany Rose - The Latest Collection
P.62 Ava James - Timeless Clothing for
your child
P.63 Vertbaudet - The AW14 Collection
P.64 WeLoveFrugi - The latest fashions
P.65 Home & Furnishings - Showcasing
Room to Grow
P.66 Fathers Day Gift Guide
P.81 Tots Amaze -Fun, funky beds
P.24
P.13
P.26
P.33
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Social media is a great way for you to market your business and is still
one of the least expensive forms of advertising available to you. There
are a lot of social media options out there Twitter, Instagram, Google
+, Pinterest and Facebook to name but a few. This month, Lesley from
Lesley Whiteman Social Media and Committee Member and Local
Leader for Enterprising Mums gives you her 7.5 Top Tips for getting
started with Facebook for your business
Set up a Page for your business. Profiles are for personal use, Pages are
for business. If Facebook catch you breaking the rules that you agreed
to when you signed up (you know, the ones that no one bothers to read)
theyll close it, without warning!
Aim to have three admins for your Page. Make sure you REALLY trust
them, as theyll have exactly the same ability as you to post as your
Page, or even delete it!
Fully complete your About section.
Upload a suitable cover image. This could be a bespoke image that
advertises your business, a product shot or maybe a library image, but
do make sure you have the right to use it, or risk a hefty fine.
Upload a professional profile image - this should either be a head and
shoulders shot or your company logo.
Secure your custom URL as soon as youre able to. This is essential as
youll need to publicise your Facebook URL on all your printed material,
business cards, email signatures etc.
Now youre ready to get started. The first thing to do is search for some
similar businesses and look at how they use Facebook. Decide what
you like, what works and what doesnt, and that will give you a really
good starting point. Try and plan for some of your content around
relevant awareness days, key events on the calendar, promotions you
are running, and then keep up to date with current affairs, so you can
comment on things that may be relevant. The key aims are not only to
increase your Likes, but also to engage with your Likers and have a
conversation with them, so they keep coming back to your Page.
Finally, visit my facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/lesleywhitemansocialmedia
click on Like and ask me if youre not sure about anything.
Happy Facebooking!
For more information on Enterprising Mums networking groups or to
set up a networking group yourself, please visit:
Website: www.enterprising-mums.co.uk
Twitter: @enterprisemums.
At Enterprising Mums, we aim to support and inspire each other through our networking meetings. In the second of our new
regular advice column here in Baby Buzz magazine, we hope to help you get your social media right.
Getting social media right - Facebook..
Who is behind the Product?
Blue Almonds is the brainchild
of Polish businesswoman
Izabela Minkiewicz who left
her high flying career in hedge
funds to pursue her dream of
building a business and brand
that would complement her
new lifestyle as a mother-to-
be. With a six-year old son
herself, Iza knows all too well
the struggles of juggling a business with motherhood. Along with her
team, she is the creative force behind all the bespoke childrens
interiors and works flawlessly to interpret the clients vision.
What is the company about?
Blue Almonds first opened its doors on Walton Street in the chic
Knightsbridge area almost seven years ago. The boutique is all about
bespoke childrens interiors perfect for modern, light, pastel coloured
rooms that parents and children alike fall in love with. Be it drawings of
gently grazing animals for the young adventurer or gorgeous naval
stripes for a budding seafarer, Blue Almonds caters to all luxury tastes
and whats more, our highly customised and quality hand-decorated
furniture can be specifically tailored to the clients taste with a choice
of over 2,000 colours and a number of collections from Pine wood to
choose from, meaning we can offer the exact details which they are
looking for.
What do you hope to achieve?
Blue Almonds has been going from strength-to-strength since its
opening and we are aiming to grow exponentially over the coming
seasons. We started off producing just bespoke interiors and now we
have extended to childrenswear and accessories too to complete the
look. We hope to appeal to a whole host of interior desires, from those
who want to go for a traditional, rustic approach with woven wicker
Moses baskets to tumbling fluffy teddy bears and stunning cribs.
Blue Almonds is keen to expand its international reach and the launch
of our new e-commerce site is the perfect way to take this forward. As
well as making our beautiful products available to those outside of
London, the site also aims to provide a friendly and enjoyable
experience for mothers and their friends to shop online for the newest
and most desirable treasures for their little bundles of joy. As a working
mother myself, I know only too well the time constraints that many
women face on a daily basis so much so that even shopping seems to
move down the list of priorities! Whats more, Blue Almonds is set to
move to an even bigger store this summer to keep up with the
increasing demand. We will stay on Walton Street but the new store
will be 60% bigger we cant wait!
What has been the highlight of starting your own company?
The highlight of starting my own company definitely had to be when
Kate Middleton came to the store while pregnant with the soon to be
royal baby. She had her mother Carole in tow acting as her trusted
advisor and they spent lots of time browsing all our collections. Our
beautiful range, The Royal Collection, was inspired by The Duchesss
pregnancy, The Royal Collection and the luxe line of nursery
furniture and accessories is made from the finest materials and fabrics.
What has been the downside of starting your own company?
The most difficult aspect I have found has been timing. My business was
in the very early stages when I had my baby which meant I never got a
good maternity break there was just too much to do so I didnt really
get a chance to take a break from the business to spend enough time
with my son. This is continuous as I am always working inside my head
there is little downtime and always too little time for the family. Its
great being busy but it would have been ideal if the timing had been a
bit more fortunate!
What would your advice be to any parent wanting to start up their
own business?
You need to learn to accept that fact that you will have to spend a lot
of time juggling your business and your family life and children be
confident in your ability to find this balance and dont wreck yourself
with guilt. You can only do your best!
For more information please contact:
Website: http://www.bluealmonds.co.uk/
Email: info@bluealmonds.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Blue-Almonds
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlueAlmonds
We have a fantastic 15% off offer on Ready-to-Wear &
Accessories when you quote Baby Buzz at check out!!
How did the company get started?
I was born in Argentina and my father ran his own business for many
years so its in my blood to start something. And after working in
Television for 15 years and having 3 children, I decided it was time to
start a business myself. I wanted to work in something that I am
passionate about rather than following somebody elses vision.
My aim is to offer something different for my customers so they are
happy, my aim is to make the customer experience as good as
possible. I offer a very warm welcome in the shop and am always
willing to offer advice if needed.
Many of the childrens clothes I liked when I had started Hop like a
Bunny had limited or no distribution in the UK, there were many good
stores and web sites that sell one brand but, with Hop like a Bunny,
you get a few pieces from many of the best childrens clothes
manufacturers. In addition, I have a personal crusade for giving boys
better options for looking cool; my 11 year old son is always wanting
the latest things from the shop. Its not about spending a lot of money
- I carry clothes across all price ranges, there is a lot of me in all the
items I choose for the shop and my customers appreciate that.
Most parents do not have the time to think, let alone choose clothes,
shows and furniture for their children. I visit the large trade shows
and choose a collection for Hop Like a Bunny which is the best of love
from the designers such as Simple Kids, Bellerose, Finger in the Rose,
Cristina Rhode, Angulus. I believe these companies are outstanding
as I am not good at taking second best in anything. I spend a lot of
time putting the collections together so customers can buy an item
of a whole outfit including shoes, coats and now furniture so there
is a lot of me in what I do. On a most simple level, I hope customers
like what I do and come back, that is the essence of my mission. The
second is that if its a single item purchase or a whole outfit in my
shop or website that their children will be happy to wear, if the
children are happy then I think I will have achieved something too!
The freedom to do what I want is precious but its took a long time to
get where I am today. Selling items right across the world from
Australia, South Korea, China, Japan, Chile, US, Canada, Iceland and
all over Europe and of course to my amazing customers in the UK, its
amazing how the web makes you global while my heart loves the
interaction with my local customers.
Being responsible for everything is a downside and when you are
small, I am building a small team but you have to be prepared to get
the call at 2am <x-apple-data-detectors://0> because the shop alarm
is going off and everything in between.
own business?
Spend as much time as you can researching your market; you can
never do enough excel schedules on cash flow. Make sure you have
enough cash to get you through the times when you need to invest
and try to be as cold as you can about making decisions. Try to not
let your heart and passion for something make you lose your sense
of reality. Its tough to do start ups in business but when it works, its
very rewarding.
Website: http://www.hoplikeabunny.co.uk/
Email: info@hoplikeabunny.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hop-like-a-Bunny/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HopLikeABunny1
Me, Chris Tuck
I was working as an accountant in a rehab and psychiatric centre when
I suffered my own breakdown in 2000. I had grown up in an abusive
home, was starved, emotionally abused and neglected throughout my
childhood. Aged 30 while outwardly leading a normal life, a working
professional, married with two children my past finally caught up with
me.
I helped heal my past through nutrition and fitness. Survivors of abuse
are often very poor at nurturing themselves as they are so depleted of
any kind of self-worth. For the next 10 years I studied nutrition and
fitness and trained with some of the leading experts in the field. I
created my nutrition & fitness business and launched my Breaking The
Cycle Clean Living Programme because I wanted to help others who
were also suffering, not only survivors of abuse but anyone with poor
self-image and low self-esteem which often leads to emotional over-
eating, and/or self-medication through smoking, alcohol, or drugs; in
short poor choices that keep people stuck and prevent them from
leading happy and fulfilled lives.
As part of my recovery I also wrote a book about my experiences called
Through The Eyes Of A Child. All proceeds go towards funding my
Survivors of Abuse Charity which supports survivors with access to
therapy and counselling.
What is the company about? Helping people overcome the challenges
that face them in their lives through mindset, nutrition and fitness. Low
self-esteem and low self-confidence often manifests through over-
eating, self-loathing and an inability to form and healthy and lasting
relationships.
What do you hope to achieve? I want to help as many people as possible
to lead happy and fulfilled lives by breaking the cycle of whatever is
holding them back. When we are stuck in a rut we know that we are
not happy but we dont necessarily understand how we can change.
Usually self-love isnt there so I start by helping people to love
themselves initially through nutrition and fitness. Thankfully not
everyone has been abused as a child but the issues of poor self-esteem
are endemic in our society today.
What has been the highlight of starting your own company? My
Breaking The Cycle Clean Living Programme provides a safe place where
people can express themselves in a supportive, confidential
environment. This is the starting point of positive change for most
people. One of our group posted this just a couple of days ago. I think
she says it better than me, each person I am able to help is a highlight.
I just wanted to share my thoughts and feelings on here. I have been
feeling free from my past for a while now but today was the first time
I woke up and felt REALLY free I don't think about it I don't have
nightmares I don't have flashbacks. I really am a survivor. I can talk
about the future and not the past I can live for the future and not in the
past thanks to each and everyone of you. I will still be on here to try and
help others I feel so alive and happy and hope one day all of you will
feel the same.
What has been the downside of starting your own company? Every
time I hear someones story it can trigger me back into those unhappy
childhood years. I have to manage that quite carefully making sure that
I dont get too tired and become overwhelmed and that I am able to
stay resourceful. Ill go and take a walk with the dog bringing myself
back in to the present.
own business?
Have passion about whatever you are choosing to do because there will
be lots of rocky times. It will take longer than you think and cost more
money. Make sure you invest in yourself with education and training to
become the best that you can be in your field. There will inevitably be
set-backs and at times you will be out of your comfort zone massively;
commit to see it through. All successful people have had times when
they want to throw in the towel and give up. So persist, surround
yourself with the right people. If want something badly enough you will
achieve it.
Chris also specialises in weight loss and helped mum of 5 Kim
Lee lose five stone in 6 months!
Website: http://www.survivors-of-abuse.org/
Email: info@survivors-of-abuse.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CT.WWHF
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisTuck_WWHF
Im Joanne, a busy working mum to two
pre-school girls Erin and Florence. Aside
from their father, I have a love affair with
retro design. I am highly influenced by
Scandinavian design and particularly love
the designs from the 50s, 60s and 70s.
Having spotted a gap in the market for
retro inspired childrens products, I set
about creating a one stop shop for all
things retro and a little bit quirky, you may
even find a vintage inspired item or two!
I took a voluntary redundancy
opportunity. Having two pre-school girls,
I decided to try and create the perfect
work-life balance us parents all crave!
Childcare costs amounting to 1,300 a
month made it very attractive and an
opportunity I just couldnt pass. I
purchased the domain name
www.retrokids.com in December 2013
and whilst still working full time, set about
sourcing the perfect retro inspired
products that compliments each other. I
finished work mid-February and have
been able to concentrate more time on
Retro Kids.
All products have been especially hand-
picked from very talented independent
artists and top quality brands and some
smaller brands trying to break out into the
market, all of which I am proud to
promote and sell. It was important
to me that all the products chosen were
ethically produced too. Many of the
clothes are made from Organic cotton
with labels carrying the Fair Trade, GOTS
or Oeko-Tex certificate, which means its
nothing but the very best for your little
ones. The vast majority of the British
products are made right here in Britain,
helping to support local industries. The
European brands all use ethical factories
of which many are based in Europe.
I have spent a lot of time sourcing the
perfect stock and seeking out talented
artists. Its a very enjoyable part of my
daily workload. I have found my products
from many different sources, from spot-
ting something great on a blog, in a mag-
azine, when on holiday or via word of
mouth. I choose items that I love and
hope that you will love them as much as I
do. I dont stock anything that I wouldnt
be happy to have for our own children or
give as presents to family or friends.
Currently my range of stock consists of:
retro inspired childrens clothing (0-6)
accessories gifts greeting cards
and gift wrap soft furnishings toys
nursery & bedroom wall art.
I hope to establish a successful business
doing what I love best and that is sourcing
the best retro inspired products for the
design conscious parents who appreciate
products that arent mainstream and a
little bit different! I would love to have a
physical presence on the high street in
time, I dont believe the high street is
completely dead and appreciate people
still want to feel and touch products.
What has been the highlight of starting
your own company?
I hadnt realised how creative I am and I
have been heavily involved in the logo and
website design, to see the end result and
know that I have played a significant role
in the overall outcome has been amazing!
I am also proud how the products look
collectively that I have independently
sourced.
What has been the downside of starting
your own company?
As a parent, you always feel guilty if you
are not down on the floor playing with
your children giving them your undivided
attention. It has been extremely difficult
at times to magic another 24 hours in the
day to get all the things that need looked
at immediately, whether thats a clothing
order deadline you need to place or
dealing with technical issues out of your
control.
What would your advice be to any parent
wanting to start up their own business?
You need to have an extremely good
support network. The ability to be super
organised and to give yourself some slack
and also remind yourself why you are
working so hard. You reap what you sow.
Listen to everyones advice but dont take
all of it and make good use of all the free
business support networks out there.
Network network network!
Website: www.retrokids.com
Tel: 0333 3583 228
Email: info@retrokids.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/retrokidsonline
Twitter: twitter.com/Retrokidsonline
We have a fantastic 10% off any first orders,
just quote BABYBUZZ10 to redeem!
The concept of hair extensions has been around
since the time of Cleopatra so if would be unfair
to say that I am behind the idea of hair
extensions. That said, I would like to think of
myself as the face of Tatiana Hair Extensions as
our concept is very much based on several unique
selling points which I have developed.
The idea to start the company was a result of
spending several years working in a prominent
salon - I simply believed that I could do it better.
After leaving the salon I started to work from
home in order to minimise financial risk. After a
while it got to big so we moved into our first
salon. We are now into our second larger London
salon, have a second branch in Manchester and
are set to open up in Los Angeles after the baby
is born.
In two words - hair extensions. This is the only
thing we do. I always believed that if I
concentrated on one product or service it would
be easier to master.
I never set out with any definitive goals. I was
always passionate about hair, beauty and fashion
and this seemed at the time like the best outlet
to express myself. That said, as with any company
I wanted to be financially successful but also
believed that we could accomplish this whilst at
the same time behaving towards our clients and
competitors in a socially responsible manner.
What has been the highlight of starting your own
company?
There are many high points so it is hard to single
out just one. From providing a fun, comfortable
and stable workplace for our employees, to
achieving recognition in the way of referrals from
our competitors in the U.S. and Australia to
experiencing tremendous growth year-over-year,
these are all definite highlights. But if I had to
single one out. It would be the fact that we have
been able to impact the lives of over 20,000
women by giving them the self-confidence that
is instilled in long hair.
What has been the downside of starting your
own company?
The difficulties in starting a business is was
probably accepting risk. It took me a long time
to save the monies required to open up my first
salon and then it was gone in an instant. If the
business had failed my life would have been very
different.
What would your advice be to any parent
wanting to start up their own business?
Be passionate about your business. Being a
parent is a full-time job in itself and quite often it
is hard to find the time, energy and enthusiasm
for work. If you are passionate about the
product or service your business provides then
finding the time becomes so much easier.
Website: http://www.tatianahairextensions.co.uk/
Tel: 020 7937 1989
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tatiana-Hair-Extensions
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TatianaHairExts
The Only Way is Essex - Lauren Goodger
The Only Way is Essex - Jessica Wright
Celebrity Parent Profile:
Lord Sugar and me!
After winning the BBC Apprentice, Lord Sugar and I started the business.
Inventing smart ideas that make life easier.
Cutting babies nails is often a daunting and traumatic experience which
can result in injuries to both baby and parent. Babies nails grow really
quickly and need cutting once a week. Babies often end up with
scratches on their or their parents faces! The Nipper Clipper helps in
three ways: the safety spy hole lets you see exactly what youre cutting,
whilst our app Timmy Tickle Baby helps distract active babies. Finally,
the curved S-file baby gently smoothes baby nails after clipping.
Working along side Lord Sugar has been an incredible experience. But
the highlight has to be seeing my inventions on the shelves at
Sainsburys, Boots, Tesco, Mothercare and from May John Lewis.
Not being able to turn off. Night and day you have to stay focused,
strong and creative.
own business?
Do your research and be ready for the long haul. Dont expect to get
your product into any store for a min or 12 months. I would strongly
suggest you keep your day job for as long as possible. Start your business
in the evenings and weekends.
How did winning The Apprentice change your life?
Yes. A record 10 million people watch me win the Apprentice and its
incredible that 3 year on people still recognise me in the street. Working
for Lord Sugar is a fantastic opportunity. He is a genius! He is insightful,
has great experience and has helped to guide me in the right direction.
What you see is most definitely what you get with Lord Sugar. Of course
he can be a little demanding at times and he definitely keeps me in
check, but that is all part of the experience
What is your goal for the next few years?
In September 2014 we launch 5 new inventions! Ive been working on
them night and day for the last 6 months and I cant wait to show
people. In 2015 we have more planned. Hopefully I can continue to
excite and solve real problems for people. What I love most is seeing
peoples faces as they hopefully go wow when trying the idea !
Perfectly Stylfiled fingers crossed.
About Booktrust
How did you get involved with Book Trust?
Following the birth of my first baby and launch of my first baby product
in June, Booktrust kindly invited me to get involved. I feel incredibly
privileged and totally un qualified compared to the other judges. But it
was a great process. Im looking forward to the winner being announced.
What do you look for as essential qualities within a childrens book?
Engagement, creative and a great story.
Why is childrens literature so important to you?
Education and interaction. As a dyslexic I really struggled with reading
when I was young. But reading is vital. Fun books make learning to read
so much easier. Secondly, bed time storys are one of the best times for
parents and children to interact. We all remember our parents reading
stories to us when we were young. When reading there are now
distractions, phone calls or TVs to distract you. In our busy, constantly
connected this time is priceless. Story time is the best.
Tom is a judge for the Booktrust Best Book Awards with Amazon in July.
For more information visit www.booktrust.org.uk
Tom Pellereau
Website: http://www.tompellereau.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tompellereau
Twitter: https://twitter.com/inventor_tom
Streetz Ahead was founded by me, Elizabeth Lahav, in 1995. My passion was to provide high
quality dance and performance training for young people. Regardless of any financial, social,
emotional or any other barrier and I was determined to reach the kids that had a thirst for
dance and performance. My sister Olivia Wakeford, joined in November 2013 as General
Manager to help with running the charity.
I have always had a passion for dance and as a child I enjoyed teaching the local kids on my
road. When I got older, I used to hire the local church hall and started to teach on a more
regular basis. Unfortunately, I hated dance as a child as I hated wearing leotards and I didn't
enjoy Mrs Millers's tap and ballet classes as she was so strict - I hated that she chose the best
kids to always stand in the middle or at the front - I was petrified of her blue front door every
time my mum took me there. I think this must have played an important part in the ethos
behind Streetz Ahead. When I came to my final year at university reading Education and
Dance at Middlesex university, I discovered a man called Jacques D'amboise who was a former
member of the New York City ballet, he decided to go into tough schools in inner city New
York and teach a style of dance that would attract mainly boys. I was fascinated by his work
and I asked to follow him for a week so that I could base my final year dissertation on his
organisation - The National Dance Institute. I spent a fascinating week there shadowing him.
Our first meeting was on Monday morning when I was sat in a huge auditorium in a school
in New Jersey and he hadn't turned up so I offered to teach the kids waiting on the stage -
he suddenly entered the room to gasps from the kids and he then instructed me to continue
- at the end of the class he called up his partner and told her that there was a young lady from
London here and that he wanted to fly me out to New Mexico to teach - he then took me to
a local cafe, ordered chicken soup and heard my story of how I wanted to take the NDI to
London. He took my hand and told me that I didn't need him and that I could do it all by
myself. It was a memorable moment that I will never forget and it was the inspiration I needed
to set up Streetz Ahead in London.
Streetz Aheadnow teaches over 300 children every week throughout North London in Barnet,
Enfield, Wood Green, Tottenham, Crouch End, Woodford and St Albans. Classes are provided
in schools, after school and evening classes at The Chocolate Factory in Wood Green. Streetz
Ahead also puts on two productions each year in large theatres to give the kids a chance to
show their parents all their hard work. Saturday Performing Arts Clubs and Summer schemes
are also available.
My plan is to continue providing high quality dance training and performances but I also want
to raise the profile of the dance musicals that I am writing. These musicals are to give the
opportunity to young talented dedicated kids who have a real passion for performance. The
musicals are innovative and unique using dance, song, acting, film, rap and mime. I personally
write the scripts, music and lyrics and I also teach, devise and direct the shows. I want to
provide high quality dance theatre for young people and families that is memorable, funny
and skillful.
The amazing quality about Streetz Ahead is that the kids stay with us for years. Shane Sloane
has been with us for 10 years and has just become our apprentice. That's what makes the
job worth while.
The downside is trying to run a company with not a lot of money. The principles of Streetz
Ahead is to provide subsidized dance training to allow access for all. The answer is not to
raise fees as I am trying to attract the young people that love dance but may not be able to
afford it. The answer is to get funding which is very time consuming but it has to be done!!
We also offer pop video parties, the idea is to raise money to help subsidise Streetz Ahead.
What would your advice be to any parent wanting to start up their own business?
I believe that if you have an idea to start a company, the first thing I would do would be to
research your competition and find out why you might be different or find out what you can
offer to make it more appealing than your competition. Another important factor would be
to ask people what they want, when you know you have a market place, it's so much easier
to get that back up and support you really need once you know what others need and want.
With 6 children between me and my sister we have to fit everything around school hours and
term time. Running your own company is really hard work, but we are able to drop off and
pick up our kids from school and be with them during the holidays. That is the benefit of
starting your own business. Your work fits around your personal life so it is all worthwhile
and in turn makes your job so rewarding.
E:info@streetzahead.org
Tel: 07956 987 387
W:www.streetzahead.org
F:www.facebook.com/StreetzAhead.org
Registered Charity1078388
How stay-at-home parents can use legal
documents to their financial advantage
Author: Mark Edwards, General Manager at
www.rocketlawyer.co.uk, an online legal service
providing families and businesses with easy-to-use,
professional legal documents and affordable help
from specialist lawyers.
As parents, we know the feeling all too well. Money is tight and time is
sparse and theres only so much we can squeeze out of our income, so
we have to turn to more innovative ways of making a bit of extra cash.
One way is to use legal documents to our financial advantage and here
are our top tips on how you can do it yourself
Rent out your car parking space
Renting out your parking space can be a good way of raising some extra
cash. You can advertise your parking space for free on Gumtree
(www.gumtree.com/parking-garage), or there are websites that will
manage the advertising and rental for you for a price. It's best to put
things in writing from the start by creating a car parking licence so that
everyone is clear on where they stand. The licence helps you to
formalise the arrangement and be sure of getting the space back when
you want to and it covers everything from the fee to your and the
licensees responsibilities and indemnity for all claims arising from the
use of the space.
Take in a lodger
If you have a spare bedroom, take advantage of the governments Rent
a Room scheme which allows you to earn 4,250 a year tax-free. As
long as you get the details right, a lodger can be a tax efficient way to
raise some extra cash and give yourself a bit of company. Again, there
are websites for advertising rooms, such as www.spareroom.co.uk. A
lodger agreement covers the rent, deposit and responsibilities on each
side, as well as ensuring you can easily get the room back or have a
lodger leave when you need to.
Turn your spare room into an office
If you work from home or operate through a limited company, you can
formalise the arrangement by creating a home office space contract for
yourself, so you can claim back the overheads in running the business
for tax purposes. Such contracts cover the fee payable for the space,
the rights given to the user as well as termination details so you can get
your space or room back when you need it.
Rent out your property as a holiday home
If youre going to be away from home for a while, why not rent out your
home for the duration youll be away? Not only will you be earning a
bit of extra money, it also means your house wont be sitting empty
ideal burglar bait. Make sure you have a holiday letting agreement in
place beforehand though to protect yourself as well as your tenant. This
agreement makes it simpler and quicker to remove guests who refuse
to leave or cause damage to your property. It also lays out payment
terms and highlights both your obligations and your guests rights.
All the aforementioned documents can be created on
www.rocketlawyer.co.uk. There is currently a one week free trial in
which you can create as many documents as you wish. Membership
thereafter costs 25 per month and includes unlimited legal documents,
30 minute free consultations with lawyers and up to 33% off additional
legal fees.
Specialist Pregnancy & Post Natal Exercise
Personal Training before, during and
after pregnancy in your home or the gym
Post natal group classes that you can
bring your baby to
Stay fit and healthy throughout your
pregnancy, get back into shape after
baby is born with an expert
Pelvic floor and diastasis (tummy gap)
programmes to strengthen and
condition your core
07811 954 739
www.bodyconpt.co.uk
TV favourite Denise Van Outen is today unveiled as the presenter
of a brand new video series giving the nation a first glimpse
behind-the-scenes at the construction of the hotly anticipated
CBeebies Land at Alton Towers Resort. The popular actress and TV
presenter will invite parents with young children to follow her into
the brand new land as she asks all the right questions for mums and
dads looking for a fun family day out.
Opening on 24 May 2014, CBeebies Land is a new 5-acre attraction
situated in the heart of Alton Towers Resort. A fun and safe
environment for preschoolers to play and learn, CBeebies Land will
include rides, immersive play areas, live experiences and
appearances from some of the most well-known characters on
CBeebies.
Along with family favourites Postman Pat, Tree Fu Tom, Mike The
Knight and Iggle Piggle, visitors to CBeebies Land will be offered the
opportunity to learn through play and fully engage with the
characters and stories as CBeebies comes to life.
The new video series consists of three episodes and will follow
mother of one, Denise, road-testing the new CBeebies Land
attractions on behalf of parents across the nation. Throughout the
series hosted on Alton Towers Resorts YouTube channel - Denise
investigates how children learn through play, how the needs of an
energetic young family are met and what you can expect from the
new area of the UKs number 1 theme park.
Denise shines a light on all the features CBeebies Land has to offer
- whether that is using shape recognition skills to help Postman Pat
sort the mail, learning about the five senses with Nina and the
Neurons or learning about plants and herbs in Mr Blooms
Allotment.
Denise Van Outen said, This series is all about trading Essex glamour
for a construction site. I watch CBeebies with my daughter Betsy all
the time and now she will get to meet some of her favourite
characters in person when the attraction opens in May. More than
that though, its a great chance for her to learn as well; Ive seen an
amazing mix of practical education and laugh-out-loud
entertainment. I think the CBeebies Land team has literally thought
of everything, but best of all, I got to see it first!
Katherine Duckworth, Head of Consumer Marketing at Alton Tow-
ers Resort commented: Denise has got stuck in with absolutely
everything and were sure she will offer parents a helpful perspec-
tive on the new attraction. Everyones getting really excited about
the opening of the area theres going to be so much to see and do
at CBeebies Land, and its great that were able to give everyone a
sneak preview thanks to Denises brilliant on-site reporting.
The 3-part web series will be available from 14th April, which you
can see at: www.altontowers.com/cbeebiesland.
CBeebies Land opens at Alton Towers Resort on 24th May 2014.
For more information and to
book tickets, please visit
www.altontowers.com/cbeebiesland
Follow @cbeebiesland on Twitter or
www.Facebook.com/cbeebiesland for the
latest news.
DENISE VAN OUTEN JOINS THE TEAM AT ALTON TOWERS RESORT
Family-friendly restaurant group giraffe is well known for serving up
its mix of global fresh food thats guaranteed to put a smile on your
face. To help keep childrens pearly whites gleaming theyll be
teaming up with National Smile Month to offer a series of tooth-
friendly fun treats from the 19May 19June.
Simply bring your little one in to giraffe during National Smile Month
to brush up on tips from the British Dental Health Foundation and
enjoy tooth-tastic competitions and offers.
Smiley treats include a free glass of Cravendale milk with every kids
meal and a months free trial of the kids app Hopster TV, with a
tooth-themed cartoons and a chance to win an iPad mini. The iOS
app is packed with safe, ad-free TV and learning games for kids aged
2 6 years.
Mini giraffe fans also have the chance to win one of 20 award-
winning Sophie la girafe teething toys in a competition run on
giraffes website.
Visit www.giraffe.net/nationalsmilemonthfor wonderful food
and gleaming teeth this National Smile Month!
For more information, please visit:
www.giraffe.net
twitter.com/giraffetweet
www.facebook.com/girafferestaurants
National Smile Month will leave you
beaming at giraffe! (19May 19June)
Following in their fabulously fashionable mummys footsteps,
Harper, Brooklyn and Romeo named the three most
fashionable celebrity children in new poll
Survey of mums also shows that nine is the age when children
find their fashion feet
To check out the newest trends, log on toStart-rites Facebook
page to watch the Start-rite childrens catwalk show, where
cool kids model some of the newest and most comfortable
styles
Their mum is one of the most stylish women on the planet and it seems
the Beckham brood are following firmly in their mothers footsteps,
according to a new poll which has seen three of the four Beckham
children top the list of the most fashionable celebrity children in the
world.
In the week that Brooklyn Beckham has made his modelling debut, the
eldest of the Beckham brood has joined his siblings Harper and Romeo
at the top of the list, followed by Suri Cruise, Willow Smith and the fourth
of the Beckhams; Cruz in sixth. Ava Klass, Maddox Jolie Pitt, Blue Ivy
Carter and Shiloh Jolie Pitt rounded out the top ten.
The survey of mums by Start-rite Shoes saw nine named as the average
age when children really start to show their fashion independence but
with kids starting to help mum pick out their clothes in the morning from
as young as 3 or 4, it seems its not just celeb kids who know a thing or
two about whats hot and whats not.
A third of mums say theirchildren really like shopping so they can pick
out their own clothes and outfits, a fifth say they have daily battles with
their children who often want to wear something different than what
theyve picked out for them, while one in seven say their kids always
keep an eye on the latest fashions.
One in ten say their children want to wear fancy dress most days of the
week, which can be a challenge on a school day!
To see the latest trends for kids on the catwalk, you can view the
Start-rite Shoes 2014 fashion show, on the Start-rite Facebook page
(www.facebook.com/startriteshoes).
Beckham kids named most stylish
Clare in Bright Pink LeatherRRP from 49 (this is the style
similar to those seen on Harper Beckham)
Botanical in White Sparkle Canvas RRP 27
Moon Flower in Taupe Leather RRP 36
Cobweb in Black Leather RRP from 33
Flexy-Soft Milan in Bright Green Leather RRP 40
www.startriteshoes.com
The new look site features improved navigation, recommendations,
enhanced search tools and provides customers with an enhanced
shopping experience. Ultimately a visual experience, the website inspires
customers with dynamic images, brand profiles and the latest fashion
news. Since 2006 Little Fashion Gallery has been the destination for
stylish parents looking for original, affordable and cool clothing, interiors
and toys for their children.
Eversinceitlaunched,LittleFashionGalleryhasbeenproudofitsfirsts':
the first online concept store ever dedicated to kids, the first to sell
H&M's highly successful All For Children' collection, the first to
collaborate with the world's coolest department store, Colette in Paris,
the first to create a capsule collection with fashion label A.P.Cthe list
goes on.
In addition to the new website, Little Fashion Gallery is delighted to
announce some exciting changes to its own label range, which launched
in February 2013. Thanks to increased production volumes, overall prices
will be reduced by 30 - 40%, making the label even more affordable. Now,
prices range from 15 for t-shirts to 28 for sweaters and is designed for
kids from 2 - 10 years.
A great deal of attention has been paid to the quality of the materials
used throughout the own label collection, as well as the designs
themselves. The collection features lots of contrasts: it is graphic, yet
easy to wear and the cuts are precise. The collection says everything
there is to say about Little Fashion Gallery's style: casual and cool.
The latest addition to the Little Fashion Gallery own label collection are
Little Fashion Shoes, a capsule collection of cool and super stylish shoes
forgirlswhichincludemetallicChelseabootstoAZ'slippers.Prices
range from 50 - 71 and the shoes are all made in Europe.
Little Fashion Gallery customers like to be a bit eclectic, and above all,
are looking for value for money. The new look website and improved
price points will ensure that Little Fashion Gallery continues to inspire
and set the precedent for all that is new and exciting in the world of kids!
For more information, visit
www.littlefashiongallery.com
PssttWatch this space for Little Fashion Gallery's first ever stand alone
concept store opening in the heart of Paris soon!
Little Fashion Gallery, the original online kids
concept store, has re-launched its website.
TOP TIPS TO BE SCHOOL SATCHEL SAVVY
Money Advice Service research
indicates that the average value of
gadgets in a UK school bag is 122* -
thats almost 1bn pounds worth of
gadgets being carried to school daily
across the UK! With one in ten
children aged 6-10 year olds taking
an electronic tablet to school, and
over half of 11-16 year olds taking a
smartphone the Money Advice
Service urges parents to be school
satchel savvy!
Jane Symonds, Head of Service
Delivery at the Money Advice Service
offers advice and ten top tips to help
parents protect their childrens valuables outside the home:
Electronic devices are so integral to our everyday lives now. Its
incredible how quickly they have become must-have items even
for children as young as six years old. Its easy to underestimate
the cost of replacing them or to simply forget to update your
existing insurance cover to include newly-purchased gadgets.
If your kids are heading back to school this autumn to take a
moment to check what your home insurance covers look at policy
limits and excess amounts. If there are protection gaps, put the
right cover in place. If you are unsure what steps to take, our online
guides will help you understand the options and get a sense of
what a good policy looks like.
10 tips from the Money Advice Service to help parents protect
their childrens valuables outside the home:
1. Know exactly which valuables your child takes to school
each day, and check what your policy covers.
2. Consider stand-alone possession insurance if your home
contents insurance doesnt automatically provide suitable
protection.
3. If a bag is left unattended at school, check if the valuables
are still covered either by your policy or the schools own.
4. Remember, items left unattended or damaged through
negligence may not be covered.
5. If a valuable item does go missing, file a police report within
24 hours.
6. Consider second-hand electronic items for your child or
cheaper alternatives to the most popular or trendy items;
7. Physically protect valuable items or gadgets which are easily
damaged. For example buy a shock proof and/or
waterproof case and buy a school bag with a hard base for
additional protection.
8. Ensure electronic devices have strong passwords and note
down the serial numbers - consider marking items with
invisible theft deterrents such as smart water.
9. Protect your SIM in case of theft - note down the phones
IMEI number so the contract can be stopped before
expensive bills are run up, or consider a Pay As You Go SIM.
10. Don't invite casual theft encourage your children to think
about their surroundings when on their phone or tablet.
Need more advice, simply visit:
www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/things-to-watch-out-
for-when-buying-insurance.
Ah, life in that other place was so different. Warm, peaceful, relaxing ,
food on tap, and no-one telling me when I could and couldnt sleep.
Happy days. I felt a little sleepy, I took a nap, for however long I wanted.
And then, one day, think it was about 9 months in, out of nowhere, I
felt like something was pushing me out of my cosy little room. Not just
one push, but many, many pushes, until I ended up in a strange, very
narrow corridor. Then suddenly my head was sticking out in a weird
place with a lot of noise, shouting and bright lights. One more shove
from heaven knows where and I was being hoisted through the air,
landing on a sweaty, crying person. What on earth was happening??
Fast forward a few weeks. All things considered, its not so bad here in
my new world. Lots of milk to drink, lots of interesting faces to look at,
but what is their problem with the sleep thing?? Its not clear to me
why, when Ive had a little sleep and then wake up after a few minutes
(what can I say? I like to chat, drink, poo, cry or play, so sue me!), this
is such an issue for them. From what I understand, theyd like me to
sleep for a few hours when its the dark time (and sometimes when its
light outside as well they call that nap time, its all very confusing),
but how can I when its been a while since Ive seen them and anyway,
I dont even know how Im supposed to go back to sleep! They dont
seriously think I can do that by myself, do they?! And if I hear about
that other baby who sleeps 7 hours in a row one more time, I swear
Im going to scream even louder than I do already.
Lets move on to my next milestone 6 months old. I wish I understood
what terrible sleeper means because apparently thats what I am. I
wonder if thats a good thing. Ive also noticed that theyre not so chatty
and fun when I call them after my little snoozes in the daytime. And
during the night time, which seems to go on for ages and ages, they
really dont seem all that happy to come visit me!
What I have cleverly worked out though is if I shout loud enough, they
will come and try and give me that sucky thing. I quite like the sucky
thing sometimes but whats really great about it is that I get to see them
all the time when I spit it out. How much fun is that?! Sometimes if I
keep going with the shouting, theyll give me some of the white stuff
(bloody milk, I think its called), which, even though Im not even
hungry, is still nice for a snack. After all, whos going to refuse food
when its offered? Other times, when I cant really be bothered to go
through the palaver of sucking or drinking, I go for the rocking thing. I
do like this one as it does make me nice and sleepy. Its so great to
have all these different ways to get to sleep!
There is occasionally a strange scenario when they dont do any of that
stuff and instead when I call them, they stand next to my cot and say
things like shush, sleepy time and try and pat my back. Whats that all
about?! Clearly, thats not going to do it for me and we all know that
its going to end with a snack or some rocking. Why are they even
bothering to do this? Adults can be so odd sometimes.
Anyway, thats it from me for now. Think Ill have a short nap. I will be
popping in from time to time to update you all with how Im getting on
with my sleep and my best tips to help me become a good sleeper,
whatever that is. To keep getting my updates, give a like to my resident
facebook page www.facebook.com/childsleepworks and check out my
resident website www.childsleepworks.co.uk.
Sleep well!
Child Sleep Works 2014
Sleep, a view from the other side..
By: Maryanne Taylor, Child Sleep Works
www.childsleepworks.co.uk
If you would like some help with your childs sleep,
please contact Maryanne at Child Sleep Works, please
contact:
Website: www.childsleepworks.co.uk
Call: 07760 252750
Email: info@childsleepworks.co.uk
Cuddledry go global
Cuddledry celebrate yet more global success!
When the two entrepreneurial mums Helen Wooldridge and Polly
Marsh shocked the nation back in 2007 by turning down all offers of
investment for their ingenious Cuddledry Apron Towel on hit TV show
Dragons Den, they had no idea that they would go on to be a
worldwide success!
Cuddledry designers, Helen Wooldridge and Polly Marsh, made a big
impression on the Dragons back in 2007 when they pitched the idea for
their simple yet practical Cuddledry Apron Towel. The two mums were
inspired to invent the Cuddledry after watching their husbands struggle
with their babies at bath time. Any parent who has struggled to lift a
slippery baby from the bath and into a small towel will appreciate just
what a juggling act it can be! This was how the idea for the Cuddledry
was born. With a unique apron towel design that keeps you dry and
leaves both hands free for safer lifting, Cuddledry makes bath time
easier and more enjoyable for you and your baby.
We asked hundreds of parents and found that mums and dads
everywhere battle with baby towels held awkwardly under their chin
or in their teeth or are forced to put crying babies onto towels on cold
bathroom floors all to get over the need for an extra hand to hold the
towel at bath time, explains Polly Marsh, one of Cuddledrys creators.
It is of course impossible to safely lift a baby without two hands, but
you also somehow have to hold a towel and wrap them in it!
Made with unbleached cotton and natural bamboo fibres, the Cuddledry
comes in a range of four subtle colours, is silky soft and super warm
ideal for safely removing babies from the bath whilst cuddling them dry.
After appearing on the show, Helen and Polly were inundated with
investors and suppliers interested in their product. The entrepreneurial
duo secured private investment and the business has expanded beyond
all expectations. By reinvesting the profits and building the company
little by little they have grown their idea from a kitchen-table business
into a multinational brand in just 6 years, whilst working around the
needs of three young children.
The Cuddledry range is now sold in over 30 countries and has recently
launched in the Middle East and South Africa with major new
distribution partners. With these new partnerships in place and others
in the pipeline, plus sales growing in the US and elsewhere, Cuddledry
is expecting further dramatic international sales growth this year.
Cuddledrys UK sales figures are projected to increase by 30%-40% in
2014-2015 and their International sales have more than doubled this
year at over 214%. The Cuddledry is now used by tens of thousands of
parents, endorsed by celebrities and recommended by midwives and
maternity nurses worldwide. It has won over 40 prestigious awards and
is recommended again and again as the number 1 baby bath-time
essential.
The Cuddledry apron is available to buy for 29.99 from Mothercare,
John Lewis, Boots and Kiddicare, JoJoMamanBebe as well as the
Cuddledry website www.cuddledry.com.
British children call for longer school daysbut only if it
means more sport!
An extra hour in school might sound like every kid's worst nightmare,
but new research from Weetabix suggests that British children
would welcome a longer school daybut only if it made more room
for sport.
Over half (55%) of the children surveyed by the nation's favourite
breakfast cereal said they would like to play more sport at school,
with 47% willing to extend their school day to make sure it
happened. The report suggests that such a move could also be
beneficial to parents as 60% said that watching their kids play sport
encouraged them to play more themselves. There was also a
suggestion of a generational shift as half (51%) of parents surveyed
said that they played more sport in their youth than their child
currently does.
However, if kids are to get an extra hour of sport a healthier
approach to breakfast may be required to fuel it. Nearly half (40%)
of kids surveyed admitted skipping breakfast at least one a week,
while 15% say they never eat the most important meal of the day.
When asked what prevents kids from playing more sport, just under
one in five (18%) blamed general tiredness, while a worrying
15%said that they didn't play more because they get their sport fix
from playing on games console.
The report coincides with the launch of the Weetabix Ultimate
Sports Day. The campaign aims to encourage children and parents
across the UK to fuel future champions with Weetabix, by inspiring
kids to get active and reigniting the passion for sport the nation felt
during the 2012 Olympics. Children are invited to design a unique
and exciting obstacle they would like to see at their own sports day,
with two winners then seeing their creations come to life at an
exciting day of sport at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park this
summer. On top of the Ultimate Sports Day, hundreds of kids
across the UK are in with the chance to win a range of prizes,
including sports equipment for their school and individual prizes
such as top-of-the-range trainers.
The campaign has won the backing of double Olympic gold medalist
and now marathon runner Mo Farah - who will feature in TV adverts
and on-pack promotion to champion the cause. Wendy French,
Senior Brand Manager at Weetabix says:
"We're really excited about this campaign and are delighted to have
a such a great role model in Mo Farah involved he is the perfect
example of what hard work and determination can achieve (along
with a nutritious breakfast!) The survey revealed that, two years
on, the magic of the Olympics can still inspire and excite the next
generation. A quarter of children said they would give up their
games console for the chance to take part in a sports day at the
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and nearly half (43%) said they would
quit fast food - so we're hoping the campaign will capture the
imagination of the nation's kids."
Some of the most interesting facts are listed below:
55% of kids want to play more sport at school.
47% are willing to extend their school day to make sure it
happened.
40% of kids skip breakfast at least once a week, while
15% never eat breakfast.
Tiredness (18%) and playing sport games on consoles (15%) are
highlighted as the main obstacles to playing more sport.
KIDS WANT AN EXTRA HOUR IN SCHOOL
Double Olympic champion launches campaign giving children the
chance to win their Ultimate Sports Day
London Olympics hero Mo Farah has been revealed as the face of
Weetabix's Ultimate Sports Daycampaign, which offers youngsters
the chance to create and take part in their dream school sports day.
Farah's double-gold at London 2012, coupled with his now legendary
"Mobot" celebration, installed the Londoner as a national treasure
and cemented his position as one the best British track stars of all
time. Now training for the London Marathon, Farah has joined forces
with the nation's favourite breakfast cereal to back a campaign that
aims to encourage UK kids to get excited about exercise.
Children are invited to design a unique and exciting obstacle they
would like to see at their own sports day, with two winners then
seeing their creations come to life at an exciting day of sport at the
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park this summer. With the London
Marathon on the horizon, Weetabix has launched the Ultimate
Sports Day campaign with the hope of encouraging children and
parents across the UK to fuel future champions with Weetabix, and
to inspire kids to get active by reigniting the passion for sport the
nation felt during the 2012 Olympics.
Olympic gold medallist and Weetabix fan Mo Farah, commented:
"I'm really looking forward to being part of the Weetabix Ultimate
Sports Day campaign. As an athlete and, more importantly as a dad,
I know how vital it is to inspire kids get active and a big part of that
is making sure they get a nutritious start to the day.
"Being a champion isn't just about being the best; it's about looking
after yourself and having the attitude to maintain that. It would be
amazing if we ended up fuelling future champions this summer
and hopefully I'll get some extra fuel ahead of the Marathon!"
On top of the Ultimate Sports Day, hundreds of kids across the UK
are in with the chance to win a range of prizes, including sports
equipment for their school and individual prizes such as top-of-the-
range trainers.
Two winners and their schools will be selected and invited to the
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on Monday 14 July 2014, to take
part in 2014's most exciting day of sport under the watchful eye of
Olympic legend Mo Farah and fuelled by Weetabix.
The campaign compliments official guidance from the NHS to
encourage moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity for
children three times a week . High in fibre, low in sugar and fat
andfortified with vitamins and iron, a bowl of Weetabix with milk,
eaten as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle, provides the nutritious
start to the day that healthy minds and bodies require .
MO FARAH FRONTS WEETABIX
ULTIMATE SPORTS DAY
www.ultimatesportsday.co.uk
[] http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/fitness/Documents/children-and-young-people-5-18-years.pdf
With Riboflavin, Niacin, Folic Acid and iron for stamina as they contribute to a reduction in tiredness and fatigue. A source of protein that contributes to growth in muscle
mass and in kids is needed for normal bone growth. A two biscuit serving contains 9% of an adults protein RI. Enjoy as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.
In order to enter the Ultimate Sports Day campaign, simply pick up
a pack and visit www.ultimatesportsday.co.uk, letting Weetabix
know what a dream sports day obstacle would be: whether it's a
giant sack race or a one-of-a-kind relay - the more creative the
concept, the better.
In an age when information overload is the norm, its often hard to find
the correct path to fitness and healthy living. There are so many
conflicting opinions that its easy to become confused about what you
should be doing for yourself and your family.
As a father myself, I feel for you. Luckily, Ive had the benefit of spending
the majority of my life sorting fact from fiction when it comes to training
and nutrition and so to start my series of exclusive features, I will be
focusing on post-natal nutrition and postnatal training tips.
Child birth, Im told is one of the most painful and difficult things a
human being can go through, and having witnessed the birth of both of
my children I have no reason to doubt this. Add to this the large number
of women who also breast-feed and who are suffering from lack of sleep
and we begin to realize how much good, nutritious food a breast feeding
mother needs.
As you know, breast milk is highly nutritious and it is recommended that
babies be breast fed for at least the first six months with further
breast-feeding and introduction of foods for up to two years. Breast
milk is made up primarily of proteins (Whey 60%, Casein 40%), fats
(primary calorie source), vitamins (A,D,E,K, C, B2, B3, B5), minerals,
carbohydrates (lactose) antibodies and colostrum. We can see that to
produce such a highly rich and nutritious source of nourishment for the
baby takes a lot of work and energy from the mother so, unfortunately,
not all breast milk is created equal. In short, it depends on what the
mother is eating.
A breast-feeding mothers diet needs to be highly nutritious and contain,
as a base, the following foods:
Coconut oil
Avocados
Hemp seeds
Olive oil
Nuts such as almonds (but soaked in water overnight)
Free range organic meats and poultry, especially liver
Wild fish
A wide variety of organic vegetables and salads
Fruits especially berries, melons, pineapple and papaya
Super foods such as cacao, maca and acai
Probiotics
Bee products such as bee pollen and honey
Carbohydrates in the form of sweet potatoes, brown and wild
rice, lentils and red kidney beans
If a breast-feeding mother doesnt have enough of the right fats in the
diet along with all of the other nutrients then there is a cascading
detrimental effect on the body.
In order to produce breast milk the body will start to rob the brain of
its essential fats, which in turn means that the brain will not function
optimally and depression and other mentally related ailments may
occur. Calcium and other minerals will also be taken, resulting in issues
such as loose teeth and osteoporosis.
Healthy Mum, Happy Baby
By Ruben Tabares, RT Fitness
Skin cells are also made up primarily of omega 6 fats, which means, that
the one million cells that are regenerated every second do not have the
correct building blocks. The result is poor regeneration, making for
wrinkles and a lack of elasticity throughout the body and skin.
So a great nutritious diet is not only vital for the baby but also for the
long-term health of the mother.
An organic diet is always best but wherever possible and in terms of
supplements I always advise that people juice and add super foods to
their existing diets. Juicing vegetables and certain fruits adds enzymes,
vitamins, minerals and amino acids to our diets which, because of over
farming and certain non-organic farming practices, dont deliver the
nutritional content they did 100 years ago. Super foods are also an
amazing way to supplement our diets. Raw Cacao (raw chocolate) has
a tremendous array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. In fact, it
has the second highest number of antioxidants of all super foods. So
we now begin to understand that our food mostly needs to be raw, not
over cooked, wherever possible free range and organic and as varied
as possible.
The next phase in looking and feeling good and secondary to nutrition
is training. Its often advisable to start training after being on a
nutritional plan for several weeks, ensuring that one is strong enough
to be able to do so.
The best way to start working out is to do the most natural thing first,
and thats walking. Go back to walking as soon as you feel comfortable
work your way up to 45 minutes to an hour a day. Introduce the pram,
which will add some resistance to your muscles as soon as you feel able
to do so.
Walking is such an underrated form of exercise and, just because you
dont feel a burn or get a pump, it doesnt mean its ineffective. In fact
youll get a great increase in blood flow to all major muscle groups, tone
up the legs, and increase blood flow to the brain. Oxygenating the brain
will make you feel better and lead to greater enthusiasm.
This should be sufficient for the first four weeks, by which time you will
be ready to move onto a more comprehensive program. As your fitness
and energy improves, you can integrate activities such as:
Swimming
Spinning
Pilates
Aerobics
Weight training
As a word of caution, due to the levels of elastin in the body in the
postnatal phase; take care when stretching or performing yoga, as it is
still possible to overstretch certain ligaments.
Individuals who have been highly active before their pregnancy will be
able to return to activity much more quickly. For those of you who have
never exercised before, this is a genuinely good time to start, but
remember that slow and steady is the key to success. You should ensure
that you dont burn yourself out so that you can maintain your energy
levels and deal with any sleep deprivation.
You will have noticed that I havent introduced abdominal exercises
here, there is a reason for that, and I will cover that in an article
dedicated to that subject. Dont worry, well get those abs working too
one step at a time though!
Please join me on Twitter and Facebook and
keep your questions coming in to myself and
Peter Marcasciano, one of the worlds top
experts on health, nutrition and
physiotherapy. To get the inside track to a
healthier life please follow us on the
following:
Twitter: @rubentabares, @petemfitness
Facebook: RubenTabaresFitness
Website: http://www.rubentabares.com/
Once youre comfortable walking you can introduce some
bodyweight exercises that you can perform straight after the walk
or at another time of the day. For example:
Squats
Place the feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart, with the toes
pointing slightly outwards, lower yourself down until the thighs are
almost parallel to the floor, making sure that your toes point in the
same direction of the knees, then return to the start position.
Start with 3 sets of 10 repetitions with a minute or two between sets,
aim to get to 4 sets of 25 reps over a 3-week period.
Chair or bench reverse dips
Sit on a sturdy bench or chair with your hands placed on the chair
on either side of you. Take the weight onto your hands as you move
yourself off the chair. The elbows should be slightly bent before you
start. Using your arms, lower your body down until you have made
a 90-degree angle with your elbow making sure that your back is
always very close to the chair. Ensure that the elbows are pointing
straight back throughout the exercise. Return to the start position
and repeat. Start with 3 sets of 8 repetitions, aim to get to 4 sets of
15 repetitions over a 3-week period.
Reader Question
Mum Maria Ackroyd asks: I'm very aware of what I feed my kids
but am overwhelmed with the contradictory information. The WHO
suggests eating lots of carbs then some veg and then a bit less
protein on that infamous food pyramid we're all used to seeing. But
Ive been reading up and our bodies aren't yet adapted to a grain
and cereal rich diet. The Paleo Diet seems to fit best with regards to
our evolution but I am also fearful of going too off track in case I'm
wrong. What would you advise?
Ruben Says:
I agree that there is a lot of confusion when it comes to our daily
dietary requirements.
Although we can eat meat we are not really designed to do so,
therefore I would have to disagree with the Paleo diet. Add to this
the fact that no one really knows what the Paleo diet really consisted
of and we are back to square one confusion!
We are also designed to eat grains but in very small amounts. The
problem today is that peoples diets mainly consist of soy, wheat
and sugar, instead of free-range organic meats, wild fish, organic
vegetables, fruits, grains and superfoods.
As I discussed in the article, if we have a varied enough diet and eat
as many different things on a daily basis, we would be far healthier
as a nation. My advice is not to follow any one particular diet, as
there is usually an agenda with them. Instead eat as varied a diet as
possible, staying away from processed and packaged food and with
foods that have lots of e-numbers and preservatives.
Food allergy is getting more and more common, and many parents are
concerned their infants and young children are developing symptoms
that may be linked to their diet. Most serious food allergies start in
infancy and early childhood, and although on the whole are caused by
a relatively small number of foods, we do see some children who are
allergic to more than one food. The type of foods that can cause an
allergy range from nuts to seeds, milk, eggs, fish, gluten containing
grains, soya and shellfish, to name just a few.
However, there is much confusion surrounding the difference between
food allergy and intolerance and how this affects babies and toddlers.
True food allergy symptoms are known as immediate IgE mediated
reactions. These reactions can vary from hives (urticaria) rashes,
vomiting, wheezing, swelling of the lips and mouth through to the most
severe form of allergic reaction, anaphylaxis, (although thankfully this
is quite rare in infants). More commonly, we are starting to see the
more delayed non-IgE mediated allergic reactions to foods, in particular
cows milk, which can be the triggers for conditions such as eczema,
reflux, colic, diarrhoea, and faltering growth in babies. Because of the
delay in symptoms, non-IgE reactions can be more difficult to identify
as an allergy.
If your baby has been showing any of the above symptoms you should
seek medical advice. Although they may be down to other medical
conditions, it is best to be thorough. Your GP would be able to refer you
to an allergy specialist if allergy is suspected.
Food intolerances, unlike food allergy, do not involve the bodys
immune system, and one of the main food intolerance that affects
babies and young children is lactose intolerance.
Lactose intolerance is caused when the gut in unable to break down the
sugar (lactose) found in milk. The enzyme lactase is produced in the gut
and is needed to break these sugars down, this is sometimes missing in
some babies.
This is often the result of a tummy bug and in most cases will resolve
itself after a relatively short period of avoiding lactose. However, we do
sometimes see infants that are born with what is known as primary
lactose intolerance and in these cases the symptoms do not correct
themselves after a period of avoiding milk and milk products.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance are diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and
vomiting, this can be diagnosed by something known as the breath test
in adults, but in babies it is usually carried out using a stool sample. Your
GP can arrange for these tests to be carried out. As with food allergy,
avoidance is necessary to lessen symptoms, so all foods containing milk
should be removed from the diet. There are low lactose baby milk
formulas available as an alternative and your GP or health visitor would
be able to advise you on them. Lactose intolerance is often dose
dependant, meaning that some people can tolerate a small amount in
the diet. For example, a person who suffers from lactose intolerance
may be able to tolerate a small amount of milk in a cup of tea, but a full
glass of milk would cause them severe discomfort.
If you are at all concerned about your babys symptoms you should
consult your GP. You can also ask for a referral to a dietician who will
be able to advise you on milk alternatives to ensure your child is still
having a nutritious diet.
For more information contact our
helpline on 01322 616898 or visit:
www.allergyuk.org
Lindsey McManus, Deputy CEO of Allergy UK explains the difference between food allergy and intolerance and what symptoms
you should look out for if you suspect that your baby has developed a lactose intolerance.
The consumer champion Which? has launched a new handy guide
for parentsto help them make sure their child's car seat is fitted
safely.
The guide has 10 quick checks to make sure children travel
safely.
Top tips include making sure the car seat sits
squarely, checking seatbelts follow the correct route
guides or that Isofix points are connected,removing any
thick clothes and making sure seatbelts go across the
shoulders and hips of older children.
The guide can be downloaded for free from their website
at www.which.co.uk/carseatchecks
A Which? spokesperson said:
Even if you have bought the best child car seat, it won't be
effective if it's not fitted correctly. There are several dangers to
watch out for and many can be easily rectified,so our advice is to
follow the top 10 car seat tips to make sure your child is protected.
TOP 10 CHECKS:
1. Is the seatbelt secure and untwisted?
2. If the seat is rearward facing, is the handlebar in the
position shown in the instructions?
3. Is the car seat sitting squarely on the seat of the car and is
the headrest in the correct position as shown in your
instructions?
4. Is the seatbelt following the correct red or blue route
guides?
5. Is the seatbelt buckle in the right place?
6. For Isofix seats, do the visual indicators show it is fitted
correctly?
7. Is your Isofix drop down foot securely on the floor, and/is
the top tether firmly attached?
8. Have you removed any thick clothes?
9. For younger children, are the shoulder pads level with your
Mums want healthier food for children, without the added junk,
according to a survey released today to launch the Organix No Junk
Challenge. The survey reveals that nine out of ten (90%) Mums think
children eat too much junk. Three quarters (75%) want the food
industry to reduce the levels of salt, fat and sugar in food targeted at
children. Organix, pioneers of organic toddler and baby food, is
launching the No Junk Challenge, a campaign to encourage parents to
cook with fresh natural ingredients and to challenge the food industry
to remove the junk from childrens food.
The No Junk Challenge will help families reclaim healthy eating by
pledging their commitment to no junk and to say yes to healthy,
natural and simple food for the family.
The challenge is supported by a team of mums and bloggers, which
includes Holly Bell (finalist in Great British Bake Off and blogger Recipes
from a Normal Mum) and the Crumbs Sisters (creators of the popular
Crumbs TV and blog). Along with River Cottage, Leon, Riverford and
Organix, each partner will contribute a day of recipes during the
challenge.
In a national survey commissioned by Organix, we asked Mums about
how they feed their families and how they feel about the state of
childrens food:
Theres too much junk in childrens food
Nine out of 10 (90%) of Mums think children eat too much junk these days.
Three quarters (75%) want the food industry to reduce the levels of salt,
fat and sugar in food targeted at children.
Six out of 10 (59%) are sometimes shocked at the number of ingredients
in food aimed at children, with more than half (55%) worried about what
is goes in childrens food.
Parents are trying to avoid the junk in childrens food
More than three quarters (78%) try to avoid buying food thats high in fat,
salt and sugar
More than half (56%) try and avoid buying food with artificial flavourings
Although four out of 10 (41%) say that avoiding artificial additives is
almost impossible
More than a third (37%) said that particular additives affect their childs
behaviour.
While parents try to choose nutritious meals for their children, most
said it was hard to make the right choices and wanted clearer labelling
and regulation to protect the nutritional value of childrens food. A
third of parents struggled to understand the ingredients in products.
Call for clearer labelling
More than a third (37%) say they don't understand what half of the
ingredients mean on the back of the packet
More than six out of 10 (62%) say food labeling needs to be much clearer.
Half (49%) say clearer food labeling would help them make healthier food
choices.
Parents don't trust the food industry and want stricter regulation of
childrens food
Less than one in 10 Mums (only 8%) trust the food industry to
make sure the food they produce is safe and healthy for their
children
Three quarters (74%) believe that many of the foods claiming to
be healthy are high in salt, fat and sugar.
Two thirds (65%) want increased regulation to ensure that food
targeted at children is healthy and nutritious.
Anna Rosier, Managing Director of Organix, comments: We know that
parents want to give their children good, healthy and nutritious food,
but its not always easy to make good food choices. We are launching
the No Junk Challenge to help parents with advice on how to read the
ingredients, to identify the dirty dozen, as well as providing fun activities
to show parents what is in the food, and simple recipes to try out at
home. We are also calling for the Government and the food industry
to do their part. We need regulation and clear easy to understand
labelling that will help parents choose the best for their children. So
were calling on parents to sign up to the No Junk Pledge.
Call to Action
The challenge aims to create a groundswell of support beyond this initial
campaign phase, to move on to develop a manifesto for childrens food
in October 2014. The No Junk campaign will call on the government
and food industry to address the artificial additives and to remove the
high quantities of added salt, fat and sugar content in foods targeted
at children.
Sign the pledge at www.organix.com/nojunk and
join the conversation at #NoJunk
Parents will be able to take part in fun activities to explore what is in
childrens food, help expose some of the junk found in childrens food,
and share their own healthy and delicious recipes to cook simple meals
with natural ingredients.
Cut the Junk from Childrens Food Say Mums Across the UK
Dad Stuart Asks:
I suffer terribly with IBS and have done for many years, I know that
stress makes it worse and I am mindful of what I eat as I can identify
certain problem foods. The main issue is my son, he's 8 and we have
been told it is likely he has it too as he does suffer with constant
loose bowels. We are really careful as to what he eats as there is a
significant link to his diet, but obviously he is a 8 year old and goes
to parties, play-dates etc so we can't watch him all the time!
I'd like to see if we can find a good alternative to help him in the
first instance and maybe then me!
Many thanks for your help
Stuart
Joanne Says:
Hi Stuart
I completely understand where you're coming from, it's so hard to
watch a child's diet when they have these social activities to go to!
My first question is, does your son know how his diet affects him?
If he's aware that his choices have an impact it will allow him to
make 'good choices' where he can. Of course, he is still a child and
bound to want the odd chocolate/packet of crisps, it's perfectly
natural.
Next, have you kept a diet diary? This is the first thing that I would
do, so I will email you one for you to keep for a few weeks and let
me have it completed for some feedback, this is one of those
situations where honesty is the best policy, if you went to
MacDonalds for lunch then let me know - I wont tell you off! Its just
important that we are transparent about these things.
My go-to remedy for children is chamomile tea, something which I
blogged about myself a while back. I love it. It's so simple and so
effective in treating almost all digestive problems, yet it's mild
enough that it'll be suitable for children. I give it to my own son with
some honey if he's complaining of a belly ache, or has been in
contact with someone unwell, had constipation/diarrhoea...you
name it. In fact, Peter Rabbits mother gives him Chamomile tea
when he has a tummy ache, so I have always told him that story
when he has it. Chamomile is anti-inflammatory, soothing and
antispasmodic for the digestive tract and has a lovely anti-anxiety
effect which I think is especially good for children if the tummy
upsets are causing some emotional distress or vice versa. Of course
I'd also suggest we need to get to the root of the problem, but this
is great for starters.
Use 1 teaspoon chamomile flowers (you can source these from me,
the mass produced teabags aren't great), cover with boiled water
and then put a lid or saucer on top of the cup, or brew in a pot - this
helps stop the essential oils escaping. Then strain the tea and add
honey if required, cool and drink two cups per day.
Then we shall work on you - as
you rightly point out the impact
of stress is huge on digestion and so we will look at taking a slightly
different approach, I will ask you to also keep a diet diary and to
note down how you have been sleeping, how work is, things at home
etc. I am likely to also suggest chamomile, but would also look at
other herbs to help reduce anxiety, such as Lemon Balm which is
one of my absolute favourites and adaptogenic, or 'tonic' herbs like
Siberian Ginseng which help your body to deal with periods of
increased pressure. If you've had long-term stress then I'd also be
looking at the adrenals, these endocrine glands are situated on top
of your kidneys and are responsible for producing the 'fight or flight'
hormones; they also produce hormones when 'fight or flight' has
turned into 'resistance' and can be exhausted where the issue is not
resolved. We will discuss this but it is fairly common for the adrenals
to struggle when you're under stress for a significant length of time,
I have treated this in quite a few patients using adrenal tonic herbs
like liquorice and Withania, with some great success. It's fantastic
you've contacted me as this is really an area where herbs are great,
and because the prescriptions are tailor made, we can work on
everything simultaneously and specific to you.
Stress management is of the utmost importance so we will look at
ways of helping you to manage it better as well as using herbs, I love
the introduction of what Icall 'golden time' which is what my son
has at school. It's time to down tools for half an hour a day and spend
quality time with your family, this is particularly important if work
is incredibly stressful and you find yourself taking it home. Monday
to Friday can be tough, but I do find that suggesting this short break
on a daily basis helps a family to reconnect and play together with
no distractions from 'phones, emails, TV's, computers etc. It's now
a family rule in our house and has made the world of difference to
both our and our sons stress levels. A game of mouse trap or snakes
and ladders can be very therapeutic, you just need to find out what
works for you. It could be a game of football or games in the park -
but this quality time with your kids will help you no end too.
I'll email over the diet diaries and we can take it from there - thank
you for getting in touch as I am sure this is something which other
parents will be familiar with and something which Herbal Medicine
is great for
Love, health and happiness,
Joanne xxx
For more information, please visit or contact me on the following:
Tel: 07729 891083
Email: info@jmherbalist.co.uk
Web: www.jmherbalist.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmherbalist
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JMHerbalist
Welcome...I am Joanne Megilley BSc Hons MNIMH, a qualified Medical Herbalist. I treat people
and not simply illnesses by doing this, I can help to restore wellbeing, working from a deeper level
whilst also reducing symptoms which may disrupt normal functioning. Because I do not focus on
an illness, it means that together, we can work on many different levels and with many different
problems simultaneously. If you have any questions, please let me know, thanks Jo x
Being the last one picked for the team can be
stressful for parents and children, but building
up confidence in children helps limit the effect
it has on teenagers.
Do you remember a time when you were a
teenager at school and the time came for the
sports captains to pick who they wanted to play
on their team? Were you the first to be chosen,
or the last?
Do you remember feelings of relief and pleasure as you were first to be
chosen or the feelings of disappointment and probably anger when you
were the last one picked? Did you find over the years that you got
picked at a different point depending on what the activity was? The
last one picked..
It was hard for us, it's hard for them! We know how hard it was for us
and we know it breaks your heart to see your child down cast and
deflated when they don't get picked for the team or don't achieve a
goal that is set for them.
As parents we cannot control the challenges our children will have to
face. However we can help them to be so secure in who they are that
they will be prepared when they face conflicting situations. Teens that
are self-confident and have high levels of self-esteem will be more
resilient facing conflict than others.
How do parents develop certain qualities in their children?
It has been suggested by Barbara Whiting-Smith, a Parent Support
Adviser (www.pcapproach.co.uk), that there are three building blocks
our children need for sound mental health which can help them to be
resilient in times of conflict, and this support and guidance needs to
begin at home.
Security
Teens need to be secure in the knowledge that they are loved and
accepted by their parents whatever they say or do.
Significance
We all need to know that we matter to someone for who we are, not
for what we do. This is especially important for the developing teenager.
Self-worth
From security and significance comes self-worth, so that they can feel
good about themselves.
Whether the teenager is 'the last one picked', grades are not achieved
or academic expectations are not met, there are likely to be feelings of
disappointment, sadness and anger as they grow up.
Parents need to help the teen acknowledge and express their strong
feelings which will help them to keep things in perspective. When teens
can share with their parents in this way, they feel supported and building
their confidence so that they can handle the problem, whatever it is.
Kristen Harding works for Tinies, a leading childcare specialist, with over
30 years experience helping families, nurseries and other childcare
settings find the right childcare professionals to suit their needs; from
nannies to maternity nannies, nursery staff to event nannies and
everything in-between. For those hiring a nanny themselves, we
provide Nanny Screening services which include Nanny CRB Checks,
reference checking and provision of employment contracts.
www.tinies.com.
Being the Last One Picked
by Kristen Harding - Childcare Expert at Tinies.com
Cycletta welcomes Macmillan Cancer Support as title partner as they join
forces to encourage more women to cycle in 2014!
Cycletta, the UKs leading women only cycle series welcomes Macmillan
Cancer Support as title partner of the series which will now be known
as Macmillan Cycletta. The series returns in 2014 following its most
successful year ever in 2013 as almost 4000 women were encouraged
to get on their bikes. The events have seen growth of more than 130%
since its inception just three years ago, which is reflective of the surge
in popularity of womens cycling. Olympic champion, Victoria Pendleton
who will continue as an ambassador for the series said It has been such
a pleasure to be involved with Macmillan Cycletta so far. Im proud to
have been a part of it since the very beginning and am delighted to see
more and more women continue to take up cycling.
Macmillan Cycletta 2014 caters for cyclists of all ages and abilities, and
will feature Novice, Classic, Challenge distances as well as the new
Macmillan Cycletta 100km distances. The new longer route has been
created due to demand from the Macmillan Cycletta audience for a
longer women only cycle route. This reflects recent explosion in the
popularity of womens cycling and the new 100km distance will be
available at Macmillan Cycletta New Forest and Scotland events.
All Macmillan Cycletta routes will wind through sensational
surroundings on quiet, safe and well-managed roads. The Novice
distance will be a manageable 20km route which is perfect for beginners
and is a similar challenge to running 5km. The Classic route which is
40km is perfect for anyone with a little more confidence on their bike.
Finally, the Challenge distance is aimed at somewhat more experienced
riders, who are seeking a slightly sterner test or for those in training for
longer sportives, as the distance ranges from 60-70km. Macmillan
Cycletta is open to girls as young as 12-16 years old when accompanied
by an adult.
The series will start at the prestigious Wiggle Dragon Ride on 8 June, in
South Wales. This event is the toughest in the Macmillan Cycletta
calendar as it takes in some steep climbs and more technical sections
of road. Next up is the Bedfordshire event which takes place on 29 June
at the stunning Woburn Abbey where wild deer roam in the beautiful
grounds. Next up is the New Forest event on 21 September at beautiful
Beaulieu Palace, which is set in stunning countryside, allowing riders to
take in spectacular views. On 28 September Macmillan Cycletta will be
at the beautiful Tatton Park, Cheshire and will return to Scotland for the
second year on 5 October where Scone Palace, once the crowning place
of the Kings of Scots, will play host. The final event which will take place
on 12 October at Loseley Park, Surrey will mark the final event in the
series.
Each event will feature all the unique touches that made the 2013
events so popular such as regular and well stocked treat stops along the
route, fantastic goodie-bags, friendly and knowledgeable marshals and
buzzing event villages. The Recovery Zone by Unlisted will also be
providing a complimentary spa experience for all entrants after the
events. This provides the perfect opportunity for ladies to relax, refresh
and rejuvenate after a day on the bike.
At Macmillan Cycletta events the younger kids will also be able to get
involved and get active at the Scootathlon which takes place on event
day, at each of the venues. The Scootathlon is a mini, fun triathlon for
children between the ages of 4 and 8 where they scoot (150m), bike
(600m) and run (200m). Girls and boys will race together in various age
categories, completing the three disciplines.
Cycling Programme Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, Liz Hemming
said: Macmillan Cycletta is really exciting for us as the series continues
to grow in 2014 and we look forward to seeing more women at the
events. Macmillan Cycletta is a great way for female cyclists nationwide
to raise money to help people affected by cancer through taking on a
cycling challenge. The new title of Macmillan Cycletta reflects our
commitment to encouraging more women to get on their bikes, and
use their challenge to help others.
Secure your place now by visiting:
www.humanrace.co.uk/cycletta
Also keep an up-to-date at the Macmillan Cycletta Twitter feed and
Facebook pages. Macmillan Cycletta is part of the Human Race
WomenOnly series which includes triathlon, swimming, running and
cycling events.
Have you ever dreamed about
competing in the same team as
one of your heroes? Fancy
joining a triathlon dream team?
This is your chance! Olympic
and World Champion cyclist
Victoria Pendleton and Spice
Girl Melanie C will both be
leading their own triathlon relay
teams at the Shock Absorber
WomenOnly Triathlon on
Sunday 13 July, and Human
Race are offering an exclusive
chance to join them for 2 lucky
winners who will each take a
place in their relay teams.
Winners will be chosen at
random and contacted on 31
May 2014 so there will be lots
of time to get in some last
minute training and do your
team proud.
In addition, to this great prize
Shock Absorber will give a bra
to 5 lucky runners-up. If you
arent lucky enough to win a
spot on one of their teams why
not get a group of girls together
and enter a relay team of your
own? The atmosphere on the
day will be fantastic and
participants will get the chance
to see Melanie and Victoria in
action.
To secure your place, please visit:
http://humanrace.co.uk/
victoriavmelaniec
Time to join the dream team - but who will you choose!
You probably think that Im bitter or jealous, or
maybe hes told you that Im crazy? That was
always a favourite. The truth is, that I wish
someone had told me then what I know now. I
can only hope that you read this and know I am
talking to you and and that you realise its not
too late.
I have always been an intelligent girl and
considered that Id never fall into the trap of
domestic abuse, saying that if ever a man hit
me, Id leave. The truth is, by the time Id been
hit for the first time I had already been abused
for many years. It started for me when I was 21,
I met him and was swept off my feet in a world
of going out, dinners and fun! It was only ever
meant to be a fling, but somehow I ended up
getting drawn in by his charm. I was young,
impressionable and still at the age where I felt
that anything was possible, seeing the best in
people and being undeniably inexperienced in
the field of relationships. Him being older than
me made me feel reassured that he knew what
he was doing, would look after me and care for
me.
After a year or so I noticed that any worry or
concern I had, I was being constantly told I was
crazy. I started to worry that he was cheating on
me and stealing from me, but had no proof and
any time I questioned him or tried to talk I was
told that I was making things up, creating
problems and 'going mental'. This went on for
some time sporadically and then he started to
tell me that friends and family thought I had
mental problems. Eventually I got so convinced
that it was all in my head that I found myself
putting up with of his nonsense,I got to the
stage where I presumed I was mad and that I
was being unreasonable, him being older and
wiser made me think that this was surely what a
relationship was about? It was me that wasnt
normal, it couldnt be him.
I questioned my own mental health so much
that I think I really did start to have a
breakdown. I became alienated from my friends
and my family, I stopped speaking to them,
socialising and sharing my problems, after all if
they thought that I was mad then by verbalising
my concerns I was only going to confirm it. I
didnt tell a soul that I was worried that he was
cheating and I never admitted that he stole from
me. Youll start to notice that youll see your
friends and family less too, maybe its
something which has happened organically but
chances are he will have been a catalyst, moving
you out of the area or possibly by having
disputes with them. Im not telling you this from
spite, Im telling you this because I wish
someone had to me and I cant see another
young girl go through what I did at the hands of
a bully.
Arguments would start and he would tell me
that I was mad, I shouted back that I wasnt, he
threw in that everyone thinks youre mental.
There was still a glimmer of the old me inside
trying desperately to believe it wasn't true.
Hewould tell me to take a look at myself whilst
Iwas crying why would anyone want to be
withthat? It then started, the implications of
being fat and ugly youre not going to eat
that?, are you really going out like that? The
confident person that I once was would have
fought back and told him what to do if he didnt
like what he saw, but there was so little fight left
that all I could do was to believe it. After all, if
he was cheating then surely it was because
these things were true? Who would want me
The arguing got worse and worse but it was
always my fault, because I dared to ask where
he had been, or could I have the rent money. On
occasion he threatened to walk out. He was
going to leave and there was nothing I could do
to stop him. But he couldnt leave me, what
would I become without him!? Nobody would
want me, I was nothing without him. Pause.
Thats when he had me at the point of no
return.
When I had become so downtrodden and lost all
self respect, dignity and belief that I actually
believed everything he had told me. At 24 years
old it was not too late; my logical brain would
speak up and tell me that, but after three years
of being conditioned and manipulated slowly
and carefully I concluded that it had to be true;
this was what my life was to be like and I was
just going to have to deal with it. You may think
the same, that this is part of the compromise of
a relationship and that its normal. It isnt. Of
course no one could see this from the outside, I
didnt have a close relationship with friends and
family anymore and those who I did see had no
idea of what was happening. It all seemed hunky
dory, I smoothed over the cracks and made
excuses for any strange behaviour. Then, in an
unemotional exchange I conceived my son. My
goodness I cant begin to tell you the mix of
feelings which I had when I found out. He was
thrilled, he said all he had ever wanted was a
family and couldnt wait to be a Daddy, this was
some relief as I thought that he was committed
to us as a family and he would change his ways.
He didnt and only got worse, spending the nine
months going out and drinking, taking drugs,
gambling our money and cheating on me, with
the excuse of hes going to be a responsible dad
soon and needed to get it all out of his system.
Did I believe him? I dont know, I was hormonal
on top of my already high emotions but I
wanted to believe him, I didnt want to have to
bring up the child alone. A few arguments with
violence erupted, but it was only because I
questioned him, silly me, I shouldnt have done
that. As usual it was all my fault, because now I
was hormonal on top of my paranoia. Please
stop me when you start to hear echoes of this in
your own life.
But of course I did raise my child alone. We
were still together, but nothing changed then
and it wont now! He will make promises but he
wont keep them, make excuses for his
behaviour but never change. Hell accuse you of
being hormonal and hysterical and right now
youll believe him more than ever because you
have a new baby. The few friends you still have
and your family will agree and say that its a
period of adjustment and that everyone
struggles and its true they do, but if you have a
two-parent family then there should be two
adults struggling and working together, not one
fighting the other constantly. Then youll find
that youre the one who is trapped. You have no
money, a baby and no partner present. You
cant talk to friends and family because this has
gone on for so long now that youll know what
they say and you cant handle that right now.
The arguments have started again but now
theres something new. Who will want you now
youre damaged goods? No one will take on a
single mother! When my son was five weeks
old I got the breakthrough I needed. On one of
his all-too-frequent benders I suddenly realised I
didnt care where he was, who he was with or
what he was doing, that this little person in my
arms needed my energy and love more than
anyone else. I couldnt be strong for myself, but
I needed to be strong for him. He came in at
5am, drugged up to the eyeballs expecting my
usually sympathy and worry and got nothing.
This infuriated him and so started a physical
fight, whereby he snatched the child from my
arms, kicked me and spat in my face. Hours
later, with no tears left I looked in the mirror
and realised that this is what my son would see
as his mother. He would forever think that it
was normal and acceptable for relationships to
happen like this, that mummys cried all the
time and got hit and that daddys hit when they
were cross and walked away from their
problems and their families.. Hed also soon
learn that his dad did not care for him enough to
step up and that his mum did not care enough
to leave.
Now Im not saying thats true, but through the
eyes of a child they do not understand the levels
of fear and the years of manipulation that go
into such a campaign. They dont understand
that mummy doesnt think she can leave, they
just know what they see. Did I leave? No.
Something, somewhere inside me fought back. I
wasnt leaving, I wasnt walking away. He was.
I slowly started to rebuild my life. I felt a strange
sense of peace and inner calm, or maybe that
My letter to you..
One readers harrowing account of her experience at the hands of domestic abuse
was numbness I dont know. It took a long while
and unfortunately a messy break up but I then
decided to move out of my home and start
afresh. I told my family that we had split up and
gave them a brief indication of the recent
problems, but I didnt dare tell them that this
had been going on from all but the start of the
relationship. Its only now, six years later that I
feel I can tell you this. Thats because I know he
is doing the same to you. I moved away, went
back to work and started to rebuild my life piece
by piece. I started socialising and meeting
people and gradually got my confidence back.
Not only back, but better than before. I had an
inner strength that made me what I am now,
whether that was because of the relationship or
being a mother I dont know. But I know that
having my son gave me the strength to move on
and I know that you can do that too. You dont
have to put up with this and you can get away
and be happy. I read something, Happiness isnt
a destination, its a journey and its so true.
Being a single mother is hard work, but your
energy is being focused in the right places, on
you and your child, not on a man-child who
treats you so badly and doesnt deserve the
time of day. I wasnt (and Im not) perfect, but
none of what happened was my fault. He
cheated because he has no confidence, he stole
because hes greedy, he gambled because hes
selfish and he drank, partied and used drugs
because he wasnt happy in his own skin. None
of those things are my fault, or yours and theres
nothing that we can do to fix them either
because he would rather blame anyone else
than look at why he behaves this way.
And you know what, I did meet someone,
eventually! I genuinely didnt care if I did or not,
I realised that I couldnt compromise, that only
someone exceptional would be worthy of being
with me and my child and that Id rather be on
my own forever than with someone just for
companys-sake. I know that Id never put up
with such behaviour ever again and so does my
husband. He knows what I have been through
and cant believe that I would have put up with
it. Neither can I, but I did and I am through it.
Im telling you because I see the pattern now, I
see whats happening. He lies and cheats and
steals because hes made you a shell of a
woman and you truly believe that you cant
leave him and that its acceptable. Hes not
hitting you, no, but he has taken everything you
are and manipulated you so that you are needy,
with no self confidence or dignity. I know youve
chased him, barefoot down the street begging
him not to leave all because you think thats all
youre worth. But hes made you feel that, its
not true.
Its better to be alone than to live forever like
this, think of the child youre growing and see
whether you could live knowing your son grows
up to treat his wife that way, or that your
daughter accepts this behaviour from her
husband. You dont have to do this alone, but
you do have to do it, there is help out there.
Good luck, enjoy your life and dont let anyone
tell you that youre anything less than amazing
Xxx Anon xxx
Leading relationship research charity OnePlusOne has created
Splitting Up? Put Kids First, an innovative, free online service to help
separating couples continue to parent in the best way possible, despite
their break-up.
The government has made major changes to the family justice system.
As a result of the new Children and Families Act 2014, which comes into
force on April 22. Under the changes, it will be mandatory for
separating couples to attend a MAIM (mediation, information and
assessment) meeting to find out about mediation before they are
allowed to take disputes over finances or child custody to court.
OnePlusOnes new service has been designed to help parents work out
arrangements for the children themselves, and as early into a break-up
as possible, reducing the need to go court.
It aims to help parents create a joint parenting plan to sort out
arrangements for their children in the most amicable way. The charity
is particularly keen to get dads who are less likely to seek face-to-face
support using the service. Evidence shows that men prefer accessing
online services than other kinds of support.
Latest government figures show that more than half (52%) of parents
say they find it hard to access the support they need when they
separate. There are a quarter of a million separated parents in Britain
and the number of single parents with dependent children in 2012 was
recorded as just under 2million.
A growing number of fathers dont live with their children. Just under
one million (980,000) men in the UK have children under 16 years old
whotheydonotlivewith.Thenumberofsingleparenthouseholds
in the UK has tripled over the past 30 years, according to latest Office
forNationalStatisticsdata.
Penny Mansfield CBE, director of OnePlusOne said: Separation is a
major upheaval in the lives of parents and children, so having access
to support early on is critical to meeting childrens needs and keeping
them connected to each parent and other family members such as
grandparents.
OnePlusOnes innovative online service Splitting up? Put Kids first is
available free, anytime from anywhere and is designed to equip
mothers and fathers with the knowledge and skills they need to make
a workable parenting plan - by themselves.
Since its online, the parenting plan can be revised as circumstances
change, providing separated parents with a communication channel to
continue to meet the needs of their children as they grow.
Splitting Up? Put Kids First is available in Welsh and English. It has been
created to Double A accessibility standard so people with visual
impairment can use it.
FREE ONLINE SERVICE OFFERS SEPARATING COUPLES
SUPPORT AHEAD OF CHANGES TO FAMILY JUSTICE SYSTEM
Expectant parents spend more than 1,600 preparing for arrival
of first baby
But six in 10 admit they bought things they didnt need or use
A fifth of expectant / new parents move house, typically
spending 40,000
FirsttimeUKparentsspendmorethan492millioneachyear,pre
paring for the arrival of their first baby, according to research from life
insurance provider Aviva. This equates to 1,619 per family and shows
a 17% increase to the 1,389 total in March 2012. The new Aviva
study of 2,000 recent parents, found that this is the average amount
spent on baby essentials such as prams, baby clothes, cots, car seats
and nappies, as well as other nice-to-haves like nursing chairs and
mumtobetreats.However,sixoutoftenparentsadmitthatwith
hindsight, they had bought things that they either didnt use or could
have done without. The most common unnecessary items were re-
vealed as mum-to-be toiletries (14%), Moses baskets (13%) and baby
slings (12%). In addition, more than a quarter of expectant / new
parents (27%) said they bought or changed their car, with an average
spend of 5,298 (up from 2,658 in 2012). A further one in five (20%)
moved to a bigger house, with the majority forking out around 40,000
in the process, but with one in seven movers spending more than
150,000 to upsize.
However, the study also showed a worrying proportion of new parents
could be risking their childrens financial futures by skimping on life
cover, with just one in five saying theyd taken out life insurance or
reviewed their protection needs at this time. New parents were twice
as likely to start a savings account for their new arrival, with two out of
five (38%) saying theyd taken this step. New parents are shown to be
rightfully vigilant at protecting their children against risks within the
home. A third (33%) of new parents install life-saving smoke alarms and
over a quarter (31%) fit carbon monoxide monitors. Stair gates are a
must-have for over half of new parents (53%), and four in 10 fit safety
catches on kitchen cupboards. But many are not considering the im-
portance of also protecting their familys financial future.
Aviva data shows that almost two-thirds (64%) of families have no life
insurance in place and the typical family only has 2,773 in savings
which, without any other income, would last less than two months on
average. Yet if a typical family paid 15 a month on a standard life
insurance policy for both parents for 18 years, they could receive more
than 224,000 tax-free if a parent died or was diagnosed with a termi-
nalillnesswithinthatperiod.
Louise Colley, protection director for Aviva and a mum to six-year-old
twins says: Its only natural that people want to give their baby the
best of everything, particularly when theyre about to become parents
for the first time, but its also important to think about planning for the
unexpected. Life insurance should be seen as just as much an essential
as the pram or the car seat, as its there to protect your loved ones
futures.
Its interesting that most new parents admit theyve spent money on
items they didnt need or never used. Life insurance is of course anoth-
er thing that people hope theyll never have to make use of, but the
peace of mind of knowing your family will be provided for, should the
worst happen, is absolutely invaluable.
Aviva offers free life cover of 10,000, per parent, per child to new
parentsintheUKtorununtilthechildsfirstbirthday.Newparents
can register for the Aviva offer either online by visiting
www.aviva.co.uk/life by phone on 0800 404 6465 or by speaking to
their financial adviser.
1. Aviva research, conducted by One Poll, among 2,000 parents with
children under five in April 2014. The average first baby spending
breakdown is revealed as follows:
Preparing for baby purchase Average spent 2014 Average spent 2012
Pram / pushchair 225.59 203.98
Cot / mattress / cot bedding 152.11 139.64
Furniture for nursery 160.27 130.75
Baby clothes 143.54 115.45
Decorating nursery 141.10 115.01
Maternity clothes 119.61 102.83
Baby toys 130.79 100.79
Car seat 89.59 88.20
Nursing chair 105.98 79.91
Mum-to-be toiletries / treats
e.g. massages 94.87 68.48
Moses basket / bedding 64.93 65.09
Baby bouncer / swinging chair 62.29 60.06
Nappies / baby toiletries 36.99 34.97
Breast pump 22.26 21.28
Bottles / steriliser 30.34 21.03
Mobile for cot 20.58 20.94
Baby sling / papoose 18.51 21.03
Total 1,619.25 1,389.44
The figure of 492 million is derived by calculating the number of babies born to UK
first-time mums in 2012, and multiplying by the average amount spent per baby as
detailed above. ONS data shows that 812,900 babies were born in the UK in 2012 and
37.4% were to first-time mums. Using this data, this equates to 304,025 babies born to UK
first-time mums.
2. Source: The Aviva Family Finances Report, December 2013.
3. Aviva Standard Life Cover on a level term plan for a husband and wife aged 28
(the average age of first-time mothers in the UK), non-smokers, with monthly
premiums of 15 over an 18 year period, information correct on 15 April 2014.
Amount of cover purchased: 224,224 if either parent were to die or be diagnosed
with a terminal illness within the term of the plan. Aviva life insurance includes
terminal illness benefit. This means we pay the policyholder a guaranteed lump
sum if he or she is diagnosed with a terminal illness and is not expected to live more
than 12 months.
4. Terms and conditions apply.
UK FIRST-TIME PARENTS SPEND
492 MILLION PREPARING FOR BABY
Pre-Baby Spending Up 17% In Two Years To 1,600
Shortly after my first son was born, I attended a baby/child first aid
course run by St.Johns Ambulance. I was petrified that if some
emergency arose with his health that I wouldnt know how to help him.
So I learned how to do resuscitation, deal with choking, head injuries,
bleeds and recognise the signs of illness in babies and young children.
That was 10 years ago and so this year I thought that an update of my
knowledge was definitely well overdue and that it would be great to be
able to offer first aid courses to local parents and parents-to-be, so I
recently attended a first aid trainer course.
Baby first aid is often high on the list of topics that my clients want to
know about in antenatal courses. In the NCT, some branches offer first
aid courses and others do not. Of the branches which do offer courses,
certainly in the North London area, these tend to be over-subscribed
and run fairly infrequently. First aid, should, in my opinion, be on the
national curriculum. Its as important as reading and writing, but many
people lack either the skills or the confidence to help in the event of an
emergency. Baby first aid in particular, is a skill which, if available to all
new parents, could significantly reduce their anxiety levels in the first
few postnatal weeks. Many parents say that they find it difficult to relax
as they are always listening out for their babys breathing. This can cause
extreme fatigue, which could even lead to postnatal illness (depression).
According to a survey carried out by Baby and Mother magazine, more
than 80% of parents have little or no first aid knowledge and would not
know what to do if their child stopped breathing, started choking or
suffered burns. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents
(RoSPA) also has some alarming statistics. Every year one million
children under the age of 18 are taken to A&E following an accident in
the home. Two hours of your time attending a local first aid course
could mean the difference between life and death for a loved one or
indeed a stranger in the street.
Basic baby and child first aid can be taught in groups of around 12-16,
covering topics such as:
assessing the situation
primary survey of the casualty (checking the airway and
breathing)
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
recovery position
choking
head injuries
meningitis
fever/febrile convulsions
bleeding
Burns
Class sizes should not be too big, so that everyone gets sufficient
practice when it comes to learning the techniques of resuscitation and
coping with choking.
Birth-Your Way is now booking baby first aid courses for all parents. We
also run paediatric courses for nursery staff, childminders, teachers and
other adults who work with children. Our baby first aid session lasts
around 2 hours with an investment in your childs long-term future
health for as little as 25 per person (or 45 for couples). Can you afford
not to learn?
This article was written by Michelle Eshkeri, CEO & founder of Birth-Your
Way, a Barnet-based company which provides private and NCT group
courses as well as tailored individual birth and parenting coaching
sessions, pregnancy & postnatal massage, first aid courses and parent
personal assistant services. For more information, email info@birth-
yourway.co.uk or visit http://www.birth-yourway.co.uk.
For more information on NCT antenatal courses, visit
http://www.nct.org.uk
Makes 2 adult and 2 children's portions
30+ mins for preparation
30+ mins for cooking
METHOD:
1. Preheat the oven to 200C/gas 6
2. Cut the butternut squash into half, scoop out and discard seeds. Put on
a greased baking tray with the cut side down and roast for 40-45 minutes
or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, peel and boil a small potato until very soft. Drain the water
and let the potato steam dry. Mash the potato while its still warm and
make sure the mashed potato is dry in texture. Microwave to get rid of
more moisture if necessary.
4. Scrape out the flesh of the cooked butternut squash onto a plate and let
it cool and steam dry for 10 minutes. Mash the butternut squash into
thin layer to cool further. Microwave to get rid of more moisture if
necessary. You should have a thick puree and not a wet consistency.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled, mashed squash, potato, parmesan
cheese, 220g flour and thyme. Mix with your hands until it forms very
soft dough (it will pull away from the bowl). It will be a bit sticky, but add
more flour if needed.
6. Generously flour your work surface. Take a handful of the dough and
place onto the floured work surface. Roll the dough into a thin sausage
shape, about 1 inch in thickness. Continue the process until you have all
the dough rolled out.
7. Cut the dough into small gnocchi pieces and add more flour if necessary
to prevent gnocchi sticking together. Press a fork on the top of each piece
to give it a stripe pattern. Put the pieces on a floured baking sheet and
set aside.
8. For the tomato sauce, add all ingredients apart from basil into a medium
sauce pan and bring to boil. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until vegetables
are tender. Chop and add the basil and blend with hand blender into a
sauce.
9. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Boil gnocchi in batches until they
rise to the surface, for about 4 minutes; cook 30 seconds longer and then
lift with a slotted spoon onto a paper towel to drain off any excess water.
10. Place the cooked gnocchi into a large serving bowl and drizzle with olive
oil. Add the tomato sauce over and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Makes 4 servings
Suitable for freezing
30+ mins for preparation
10-30 mins for cooking
METHOD:
1. Make sure the liver is free from any vessels (these will not be very
pleasant for your baby as they are difficult to chew and will not blend
very easily)
2. Soak the livers in milk to absorb the bitter flavours for half an hour
before cooking
3. Boil some water and cook the potato, mash once ready - keep the
cooking water from the potatoes for later
4. Finely chop the onion and carrot and slice the mushrooms
5. Mix the black pepper and mixed spice with the flour and roll the liver
in the mixture
6. Heat up the oil in a pan and add the onions, pepper, carrots and
mushrooms and saute until slightly brown
7. Add the tomato puree and some of the cooking water from the potatoes
8. Add the liver to the pan and cook for a further 10 minutes, making sure
the liver doesn't dry out
9. Spoon the mixture from the pan into a blender and blend to a smooth
paste. Add the mashed potato to the mixture and puree. Use more
water to thin the mixture if you need to
Ingredients
For the gnocchi
small butternut squash
1 small potato (around 200-250g),
( like Kind Edward or Maris Piper)
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
270g plain flour
tsp thyme
For the tomato & basil sauce
400g tinned tomatos
3 tbsps water
100g carrots, grated
50g red pepper, chopped
tsp garlic puree
A pinch of ground black pepper
1 large handful of basil (20g)
Ingredients
8 small slices (80g) of chicken or lambs
liver
1/4 pint milk, for soaking
1 tbsp plain flour
1 tbsp olive oil (or sunflower oil, or butter)
1 tbsp tomato puree
1/2 tsp mixed spice
a sprinkle of ground black pepper
1/2 onion, finely diced
1/2 red or yellow pepper
2 mushrooms
1 medium carrot
1 medium potato
METHOD:
Step 1 - Finely grate the parmesan into a bowl
Step 2 - Mix in the flour to the cheese and grind in some black pepper
Step 3 - Put a dessert spoonful of the mixture on a tray flatten down
slightly
Step 4 - Put under a hot grill until starts to colour
Step 5 - Remove from grill and with a palette knife take off the baking
tray whilst still warm. Place on a wire rack to cool
Step 6 - Repeat until all the mixture has been used up
Serving suggestions
Either eat as they are or top with dips like guacamole or salsa
METHOD:
Step 1 - Mash the banana with a fork in a bowl. Separately blitz the
blackberries, raisins and 2 tbsps of the yogurt with a hand
blender. Mix the banana with the fruit mixture and then push
it all through a sieve to make it really smooth
Step 2 - Add the rest of the yogurt and vanilla extract to the fruit and
mix together
Step 3 - Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container
(plastic/tuppaware is good) - make sure you only fill up to half
way
Step 4 - Freeze for 2 hours or until it becomes firm around the edges.
Use a fork to stir up the mixture and break down any ice crystals.
Re-freeze for another hour and repeat the stirring process with
a fork if necessary. Freeze overnight and enjoy the next day.
Ingredients
100g parmesan cheese
20g plain flour
A grind of black pepper
A Healthy Summer Snack
Makes 4-8 portions (depending
on appetite!)
10-30 mins for preparation
Tasty Little Mouthfuls
Makes approx. 10 biscuits
Under 10 mins for preparation
Under 10 mins for cooking
Ingredients
100g blackberries
80g raisins (or we used a few
boxes of Organix Raisins)
Half a medium banana
200g Greek yogurt
1 tsp vanilla extract
A tasty way to introduce
figs to your little one
Makes 4 servings
10-30 mins for preparation
Under 10 mins for cooking
For the nut-free pesto:
5 tbsp (55g) extra virgin olive oil\
45g cooked chickpeas
clove of garlic
25g or 2 handfuls of basil
20g parmesan cheese
Juice of lemon
Ingredients
x mini pitta breads
2 ripe figs, halved and thinly sliced
1 big ball of mozzarella
METHOD:
Step 1 - For the nut free pesto, put all the pesto ingredients into food
processor and blend until the basil and chickpeas are finely
chopped. Or pound the chickpeas, garlic and basil in a pestle and
mortar until finely crushed and mixed in the oil and cheese
Step 2 - Preheat the grill to 200C. Cut the pitta breads in half side ways
and halve and thinly slice the figs. Place the pitta bread onto a
baking tray and spread a thin layer of pesto onto each one.
Arrange sliced figs round the bread leaving some gaps for the
mozzarella. Tear the mozzarella into small pieces and arrange
around the figs
Step 3 - Place the baking tray under the grill for 5minutes or until the
mozzarella is melted
We are extremely privileged to be joined by Cbeebies Mr Bloom and well renowned gardening consultant,
Dawn Isaac for the Baby Buzz Get Growing Guide for 2014!
Growing your own is such a great family activity that gets everyone involved
and provides you with an edible end result! What could be better? Growing
your own doesnt have to be expensive and you can cultivate your own seeds
if you do your research. Most vegetables will have the seeds that you can
keep, dry out and in turn sow when the time is right. Why not give it a go
and send in your photos to feature in the forthcoming issues? If you are a
novice at growing your own, there are so many websites giving you tips and
suggestions and if you visit Suttons website they have a Vegetable Garden
Planner that suits all types of outdoor space from allotments to pots and large
gardens to grow bags! Why not get your school involved too. Suttons have
the new online gardening store aimed at helping schools (primary and junior)
to introduce the joy of gardening across the whole school community. To
register your school or for more information, visit:
www.littlegreensprouts.co.uk.
MONTH THREE: THE BABY BUZZ CHALLENGE, THIS WEATHER!!!!
So this month we have seen a surge in growth of our little seedlings. The
tomatoes have rocketed and whilst this is great news, our weather also seems
to be fluctuating rather drastically and so my lovely plants are being blown
in every direction. Ive called in the help of my much talented brother and
sister-in-law (also landscape gardeners http://evansonearth.co.uk/) to come
to the rescue and secure them in some way without blown out of the pot! I
have to say the strawberries have come on a right treat and have lots of little
strawberries coming out! The pictures taken to the right show my poor
tomato plants having taken a rather nasty battering and thanks to a faulty
gutter they were also flooded out twice! I managed to rescue them luckily
and they dont seem to have suffered to badly. Do any readers have any
pictures theyd like to send in to show others? Maybe some tips or ideas?
It's OK - you can put away your thermal vests - things are properly
warm outside now. Plants are feeling it too and although they
may not be shedding fashion-challenging underwear in the same
way, we can start planting and growing tender crops.
Here are my top ten things to do with your junior gardeners at
this time of year
1. Sow some pumpkin and squash seeds in the ground - you
can try growing giant varieties, but if you're limited on
space you can also select types which are happy to grow in
a large pot instead
2. In a sunny spot, use long bamboo canes pushed into the
ground in a circle and tied together at the top to form a
wigwam structure. You can then plant runner beans or
climbing French beans at the base of each cane to form a
leafy teepee in a few weeks time.
3. Make some outdoor bunting from old plastic bags cut into
pennants and stapled to string
4. Find a sheltered sunny spot and plant sunflower seeds in
two rows just over a metre apart to form a giant flowering
alley for summer
5. Sow beetroot, dill, chard, rocket, courgettes and basil in
your vegetable and herb garden or even in pots
6. Have a picnic tea in the garden or at the park.
7. Hide two or three of the children's soft toys around the
garden and send them off on a bear hunt
8. Find a small vase or even a simple mug and let the children
cut a few flowers and stems to create a mini flower ar-
rangement
9. Make your own scarecrow
10. Use acrylic paint pens to personalise small watering cans
and encourage the children to keep their plants well wa-
tered in hot weather
Dawn Isaac is a garden designer, writer and mother of three. Her
most recent book is 101 Things For Kids To Do Outside published
by Kyle Books (RRP 14.99) and you can follow her blog about
gardening with children at:
www.littegreenfingers.com
For all your special occasion cakes, always fresh and never frozen..
www.facebook.com/cakeangelcakesbynikki
07851233208
cakeangel78@hotmail.co.uk
Goffs Oak and
surrounding areas
Happy Fathers
Day!!
I always knew James would be a great dad, but it
wasn't until Ralph was born that I got to see just how
amazing James is with Ralph, he is so hands on in
every way, even down to changing Nappies and
dealing with sick!!! Ralph loves being with James and
watching them both together is the most special
thing. James in my eyes is the best daddy ever..
He is a great dad because hes still a kid at
heart and has as much fun as the kids do xx Words can not express what a fab daddy Paul is
Thank you for being you x You are our rock x
The reason they love him so much is
because he works really hard and takes
them on holidays (and grows funny
moustaches that annoy mummy!)
He is an amazing daddy, better than I
could ever have imagined & Alexia loves
him to the moon & back.
My daddy is amazing as he looks after
me for two whole days a week while
mummy goes to work and we have a
wonderful time together x
My daddy gives the best cuddles and always makes
me giggle!'
Even though I am the "creative" one out of us, Andrew is the one who will always get out the paints
and make pasta necklaces with the girls or let them attack his face with the face paint set & not worry
about the mess. He is such a fun & caring dad to be around, the girls are very lucky .
He works tirelessly but always has time for the kids too!
Richie is a firefighter and dad to 3 girls who all
think he is a hero, he's kind and funny too!!
My Granddad is amazing because he
takes me out to play in his beautiful big
garden and plays ball games with me..
I love that Lee comes home from work and straight away spends time with his boys.
There my world.
Because he would do anything to put a smile on his
baby boys face and when you watch him look at his
son all you see is love xx
Tas is a great Daddy, he manages to balance
fatherhood with running a business and always
makes time for the children with the patience
of a saint.
Adam is the best daddy because he gives the biggest cuddles, does the best
raspberries and tickles, loves watching Disney and Pixar and even sings along to all
the songs! And above all he has the biggest amount of love to hand out and looks
after us all and treats us - he's just the best!
As a registered dispensing optician in practice I have to ensure that
people are happy and comfortable with their glasses. Never is this more
important than when a child need to have spectacles. Children are not
always capable of complaining about a poor fit. Instead they lose their
spectacles or break them rather than wear them. This is even more the
case when we talk about a child with Down syndrome.
Fit is a key factor for any child as their small faces are still developing
and their facial characteristics are quite different to a mature adult face.
As such they require specialist frames specifically tailored to their
needs. Poor fitting frames can mean the glasses slipping and the child
looking over and not through the lenses. That is an unacceptable
situation as children are learning every second of the day and if the
world is in poor focus that can only hamper progress.
It is a well known fact that of 50% of the 60,000 people living with Down
Syndrome in the UK wear spectacles but not known is that 100% have
low quality of vision. Whats more, children (and adults) with Down
Syndrome are VISUAL LEARNERS. Their vision is key to their everyday
activity, making a well fitting pair of spectacles essential. However the
common picture you see in practice when you see a Down Syndrome
child is a pair of low fitting specs and the child having to continually
push the glasses up. The petite nose, broader bridge and shorter
distance from the ears to the front of the face mean that regular
spectacles constantly slip and the child is looking over the top of the
frame.
A 1993 study at Cardiff University concluded that Down syndrome
children cannot be fitted with conventional frames. This is because the
facial characteristics of children with Down syndrome do not change
with age and rarely coincide with those of other children, either of
similar age or younger. As such, a specially designed range makes the
job of the dispenser much easier, and actually provides the child with
spectacles that fit their needs.
Maria Dellapina, a USA Certified Optician has a Down syndrome
daughter and came up close and personal to this problem when her
own daughter Erin required a spectacle correction. She got frustrated
and decided to get a frame manufactured to fit her little girls unique
features better. Hence ERINS WORLD FRAMES came about.
To address these unique features she designed a range of frames with
the following features:
A Lowered bridge to make the frame sit higher and more centred
Custom designed shorter temples lengths-to ensure better fitting
Extra wide frame front-to ensure a comfortable fit
Made of titanium &memory flex-creating a durable frame
180 Degree spring out flat folding joints-ensuring the frame takes life
little mistakes better!
The range of 14 models and twenty
colours mean that for the first time
a Down Syndrome child or adults
has a choice of colour, size and style
something we all take for granted
when we choose spectacles.
Dellapina started sharing the
information and launched the
range via a website to gain
exposure and get the message out
there that there is something to fill
this previously under developed
need.
My own personal journey with Erins World started when I came across
a patient with an Erins World frame. The mother was not happy as the
glasses still slipped and out of curiosity I asked her who measured her
daughter for the glasses. No-one she said she took the size on her
daughters existing specs and ordered them from the web. The sizing
was too big and this time we measured the little girls face and ordered
new spectacles. The new glasses fitted perfectly thus highlighting the
need for proper fitting and assessment for fit &comfort. That is why
when I took over UK distribution of Erins World and considered how
we raise awareness of the product we decided to highlight to both
service users and professionals the need to see a qualified eye care
professional who can properly measure and adjust your spectacles and
provide warranty and back up as needed.
As a parent it can be daunting trying to locate one such professional
and to assist with this our website has a location section whereby once
you have hit the UK button you are able to see who in your local area
is a stockist of our frames. Also on recent attendance to a Down
syndrome event I realised an important fact when I was speaking to a
parent. That is, sometimes a child will only want to be seen by their
optician-not the stockist down the road. If this is the case, you could
get your optician to get in touch instead.
Optometrists and opticians are getting more in tune with the needs of
children and adults requirements aided by charities such as SEEABILITY
http://www.seeability.org/eyecare_hub/optometrists_or_optician_se
arch/optometrist_search.aspx who have also have a section on their
website for eye care professionals to register their expertise and
commitment to providing eye care services to parents of Down
syndrome children and adult DS individuals.
Finding a professional who can give you the time and expertise to
provide a customised pair of spectacles can make a huge difference to
your childs vision. Erins World Frames are suitable for children right
up to adulthood. Opticians have told us that the frames also fit children
without disabilities who have low bridges,and who also look over their
glasses rather than through them.
REMEMBER ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL
UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR ERINS WORLD FRAMES
Specially formatted frames for Down syndrome individuals and anyone with a low bridge.
ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL
By JAYSHREE VASANI
For more information or to find your nearest stockist of Erins
World Frames, please visit:
Website: http://specs4us.com/doctorlocations.html
Email: vasanij@hotmail.com
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Our beautiful bouquets ooze elegance and
provide the wow factor that comes with it.
These bouquets contain 7 items each made from
100% cotton and all have lovely soft to touch
teddies included.
Our gorgeous cupcakes melt in your mouth and
make any baby shower or party complete!! Our
cupcake socks are so creative that you will not
believe they are not edible.
For more information or to place an order,
please visit us at:
Website: http://www.angelsurprise.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angelsurpriseltd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/angelsurpriseuk
To celebrate the opening of the new London Designer Outlet Playpark,
were looking for talented children to send us a drawing of their dream
play park. It could have a helter skelter, or even a waterslide the more
creative, the better!
London Designer Outlet has teamed up with top charity, Make-A-Wish
Foundation UK, to help raise money to grant magical wishes for
children and young people fighting life-threatening conditions. For each
entry received, London Designer Outlet will donate 1 to Make-A-Wish
and you are in with a chance of winning a VIP family fun day out,
including family tickets to a show at Wembley Arena.
The competition will be judged by none other than celebrity superstar,
Peter Andre who officially opened London Designer Outlet Playpark.
Peter will pick one winner of the grand prize, plus ten runners-up
entries, which will all be displayed here on the London Designer Outlet
website!
Print off the entry form from the following link and drop in your
childrens creations to our Customer Service office at London Designer
Outlet for your chance to win! :
http://www.london-designer-outlet.com/whats-on/make-a-wish-
kids-drawing-competition
Alternatively, entries can be emailed to:
LDOpressoffice@haygarth.co.uk, or posted to the following address:
LDO Press Office, Haygarth, 28-31 High Street, Wimbledon Village,
SW19 5BY (The competition closes on 3rd July 2014).
Make-A-Wish Kids Drawing Competition
More than 4m UK adults suffer from eczema and 1.26m of the population suffer from
psoriasis dry, sore skin conditions which are exacerbated by cold weather and central
heating. As we leave the winter months behind, millions of people across the UK are
looking to regain their skin confidence, and get ready to bare all in the sunshine.
Hopes Relief is the perfect way to prepare your skin for the summer months, completely
naturally. It is Australias number one dry skincare range, packed with natural goodness
and scientifically proven to help soothe, nourish and protect your skin, leaving you
feeling ready for summer. The Intensive Dry Skin Rescue cream is specially formulated
to nourish deep down and help repair the skins natural barrier, for targeted relief. The
Hydrating Lotion can be used all over the body its breakthrough formula with mango
butter intensely moisturises, penetrating deep to restore flexibility and regenerate new
skin cells.
The Hopes Relief range contains high strength herbal extracts, such as Calendula,
Licorice, Gotu Kola and Aloe Vera, which hold antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and collagen
boosting qualities. A key ingredient is hospital grade UMF10+ Active Manuka Honey,
which has proven healing properties; Independent tests comparing Manuka and
Australian Tea Tree found Manuka to be up to 33 times more effective on common
gram-positive skin bacteria. It has even been shown to be highly effective against
antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria such as MRSA.
George Adams, aged 16 months when his mum Verity was in touch with us to trial
Hopes Relief. Within 3 weeks, the cream had calmed his skin dramatically (see pictures)!
The Hopes Relief range is available now from Wholefoods, Nutricentre, Revital, Planet
Organic, John Bell & Croyden, www.hopes-relief.com, and all good health stores and
independent pharmacies.
Summer skin confidence for 5.6million people
www.hopes-relief.com
Taking care of your skin, the right way ..
I used to be one of those people who didnt really believe in the whole
cleanse, tone and moisturise thing, purely because I thought it was
either a) a gimmick b) someone's opportunity to make money out of
women desperately wanting younger looking skin c) a waste of time
and money. I have friends and family who have spent a considerable
fortune over the years buying every new product that has come to the
market, most of which havent worked . After attending a recent Press
event (and meeting the lovely Myleene Klass) I also had the chance to
speak to a lovely lady who was displaying a vast range of products by
Murad. Being the type of person who doesnt have a clue about what
product does what I, rather tentatively, sat down and waited for the
long and complicated explanations, which I have to say quite pleasantly
didnt happen. I must say that with so many products doing a variety
of things it did become quite bewildering looking at so many tubes and
pots but after explaining what I was looking for in a product Sarah
brilliantly explained (without looking at all bored or ready to run) what
the products could do for me.
I have to say that the first product she gave me to try on my hand, the
Renewing Cleansing Oil, was an odd sensation purely as the texture was
so overly oily and the thought of putting this on my face felt a bit like
covering my face in grease and didnt feel natural at all. I have to confess
that the sample sent to try out at home didnt prevail much more than
the initial trial and this has been given to a family member to try out
instead. However, the next line to be tried on the night has been
somewhat of a revelation! The Age Reform programme is a 3 stage
series based on Cleanse/Tone, Treat/Repair and Hydrate/Protect. The
first step is the Refreshing Cleanser, which is so easy to apply whilst in
the shower or bath - by simply gently massaging onto your face and
neck area and then rinsing off. Just this step alone leaves your skin
feeling unbelievable soft! The second stage of Dr. Murads three-step
regime, Treat/Repair, is the most important in a Murad skincare regime.
There is at least one Treat/Repair product in every Murad product range
and this is usually the serum product. Murad serums are a targeted
skincare treatment with the highest percentage of active ingredients.
They deliver key ingredients directly to where skin needs it, making it
the most powerful and results-driven product in the range. Treat/Repair
products, or the Murad Step 2, stimulates the deeper layers of the skin
which treats your main skin concern and helps to repair it. If you wish
to invest in just one product, then a Step 2 Treat/Repair which targets
your skin priority is the one to choose. Step 3 the Perfecting Day Cream
(there are variations that you can use i.e. for night time which have no
SPF but this is the version we reviewed for the morning ritual). I can
safely say my skin has never felt, or looked, better whilst Ive been using
the Murad creams and whilst its not the cheapest option on the market
it most certainly is one of the best. You can go into House of Fraser on
Oxford Street, which has a skin scanner and this will tell you whats
really going on with your skin and what product will work best for you
(and its totally free of charge!). This is one regime I will definitely be
keeping up once my trial session has finished!
So who is behind the Murad brand?
Jeff Murad is vice president of product development at Murad Inc.,
overseeing the formulation, testing, regulatory compliance and packaging
compatibility of Murads entire selection of products. Joining Murad Inc.
in 2000, Jeff works alongside his father; legendary dermatologist and
Murad founder Howard Murad, M.D., FAAD, on the development of new
products and formulations. Continuing to further the science-based,
results-oriented family of products, Jeff is also responsible for ensuring
that new product development is linked closely with consumer demand
by working seamlessly with Murads marketing division.
Under Jeffs stewardship, Murads product development department has
tripled in size to meet escalating demand for support functions sparked
by the growing pipeline of innovative products created. In addition, Jeff
is active in furthering Murad's international growth and co-created the
successful Murad Man line, that includes various products tackling
male-specific skin concerns. Jeff holds an MBA from University of
Southern California with a special focus on strategy and marketing. He
completed his undergraduate studies at New York University and is
currently on the ICMAD Board of Directors, an elite consortium of the
most experienced cosmetic company owners and executives in the
industry.
Murad, Inc. was founded in 1989 by Howard Murad. M.D., one of the
worlds foremost authorities on skin health and a pioneer of the clinical
skincare movement. Murad is sold in over 40 countries and is the #1
selling clinical skincare brand at many locations including Sephora and
Ulta.
By Nickie Evans
For more information,
please visit:
www.murad.co.uk
You have to have passion about it or you
wont see it through. You need to stay up
all night thinking about it. You dont sleep
because you are either excited or you are
panicking because you need everything to
be perfect. You go on courses to make
sure you know all that you need to know
and you dont stop till the job is done and
just how you want it to be.
LIFE IS HARD!!! And to top it all of, you have a couple of kids that want
to go to the park or need their hands wiping every five minutes as you
are letting them eat everything in the house just so that you can get 10
minutes to write an article!!! And Breath. But, at the end of the day, I
can do anything I like. I dont answer to anyone except an occasionally
moaning husband and at least he can see my vision.
Ive worked for some very interesting people in my time, and I use the
word interesting as it has a very wide range of what it could mean. I have
experienced all sorts of people and its been amazing but its also
something I dont want to go back to. As I've said before, I've been in
positions of not just needing to make decisions about my business but
also my life. Yes we work and yes our guilt is strong about not being with
our kids but we must make the most of the time we have. I went to a
friends house at the weekend and although I was worried whilst I was
there that I wasn't working I had a really nice time. She was talking about
her guilt about working full time and not spending time with the kids, but
we also talked about our schools having indulgence evenings and going
to each other for support. We both went along to mine first and had a
really lovely time. We both had a couple of treatments which was a real
treat. I felt amazing. I had a chat with my dad about this too and he
practically told me off! Not for being selfish for having some time to
myself but for not doing it regularly and looking after myself! Initially I
was shocked that my Greek Cypriot father was telling me to go and have
a pamper but I realised that he was saying it as I hadn't been looking after
myself at all. I've been going to my wonderful friends Salon, Pure Hair
and Beauty Salon in Enfield as he's been experimenting with my hair with
some of his treatments that he does at the salon and its been amazing.
I have very long hair which is great for him, but I'm very fussy about my
hair and I have to take 2 hours out of every week to have my hair done
which I've never done in my life. A lot of my friends are actually shocked
that I'm having it done at all but I'm really enjoying stand feeling
wonderful looking nice afterwards.
So the moral of this months story is not to get your hair done every week
like a crazy person. Or to working so hard that you cry because you have
to succeed!
Its harder to find a balance. Sometimes things crop up and we don't
realise that weve stopped looking after ourselves until we can't find any
clean underwear because we have been so busy making sure that the
kids have something to wear and then realised that we don't. That's
always fun!
Don't forget to look after YOU whilst you are trying to change all of your
lives for the better with your business (or just working full stop).
Everything actually begins and ends with you. If you aren't looking after
yourself then how can you look after everyone else.
Chin up and keep pushing!
The thing about starting up
your own business is that its
hard work By Eve Tudor, The Buggy Network
For more information, details of next
events or to join up, please visit:
www.thebuggynetwork.com
Soft furnishings
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Sewing tuition
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Kids sewing parties
07502 980 822
Are you getting close and counting down the days to
your labour? How are you feeling? Excited with a
splash of nervousness? Throughout the whole of my
pregnancy, I was constantly asked about my birth
plan. The only plan I knew I had was to have a baby
at the end of 9 months, and hopefully I would be
graced with a homebirth (with the birthing pool
lovely pumped up by the hubby in the dinning room).
Strange that throughout our entire pregnancy I was happy to go with
the flow and let things be, so outside my usual planned and thought
out life. So, birth plan. Do you have one? Have you had it engrained
in your mind since before your little one was even conceived? Or are
you pretty happy to let nature take its course? Allow me to share, from
experience, a little loving advice. It all began on Friday 18th April
2014... Nearly 2 weeks overdue, I was doing everything (and more)
to assist this impending labour. My yoga practices now consisted of
more breath work and meditation and I was now fit to walk Everest.
Spicy food had been a constant throughout pregnancy, but now
seemed to be on the menu each evening. Not even a somersault of
excitement, until that Friday 18th. After a walk with my husband, I
began to get those wave like period pains - yayyyy! There was actually
a baby in there and not just too many chocolate brownies trying to
escape.
On the advice of my dear friend Clare, I began gentle exercises on a
birthing ball (must have) to help the contractions along. Through
excitement and pain, I didn't really sleep at all that Friday evening (big
mistake! Rest as much as you can at the start). And so, the
contractions went through to Saturday where I was due for an
induction. I managed to persuade the doctors to give me a sweep
instead, in that if nothing happened I would return the following
morning and have the induction. Saturday evening flowed into Sunday
morning and me and the hubby made our way to the hospital for my
first induction. Word of advice, try and plan your labour for Easter as
the Maternity wing was empty and we got amazing personal service
from the team! As I planned a homebirth I was treated as an out
patient and allowed home to let nature (hopefully!) take its course.
Another long hilly walk followed where I was having 3 contractions
every 10 minutes, which is what the midwife said I needed for labour
to ensue - SCORE! Excited, we went home and I got euphoric looking
at my birthing pool that it could still be a possibility. Nothing. I was
beginning to wonder whether this bump was actually doughnut
induced after all as we made our way to the hospital again for my
second induction on the Monday morning (day 4 of labour). Again, this
proved fruitless and I was told I had to stay at hospital. So long
homebirth AND the joy of a birthing pool, but I wasn't fazed at all by
this. I just wanted the safe arrival of our child.
That evening, merconium was found on the sanitary towel I was
wearing (this is where the baby poos inside you and comes out as a
green discharge, indicating distress). The team at Whipps Cross
Hospital were amazing and I was taken down to the labour ward where
I was placed on Syntocinon to increase contractions. Now, in my
loosely drafted birth plan for my midwife, I stated no drugs, especially
an epidural. After 4 days of contractions, no sleep and worry and the
4 hour duration of forced contractions, as much as I didn't want to take
the epidural, I didn't think I could support my child at this point. And a
good job too as the 4 hours turned into 9 hours. At this point I was only
4 cm dilated (WHAT WAS WRONG WITH YOU CERVIX?!), our babies
heartbeat was decreasing with every contraction and more merconium
was being released which was threatening to choke our child. I was
immediately wheeled into theatre for an emergency caesarean. And
our beautiful baby boy arrived 9.30am Tuesday 22nd April.
The eventual birth of our baby boy was so far removed from my
anticipated homebirth, I would never have dreamt I would have ended
up with an emergency caesarean. But lest we forget what this is all
about, the safe arrival of a precious gift you have been carrying for 9
months. I honestly would have done anything recommended when the
little life inside me was in danger. And after all, no matter how much I
wanted a homebirth, it was never about me.
Whatever happens, I promise you will get over it. You will forget. And
you wont be able to stop staring into the most amazing eyes you
helped conceive and think how wonderful life is.
Enjoy x
A Labour of Love
Tips for Labour
At the beginning of contractions, I would stand and lift all my toes
off the ground pushing strongly into the balls of my feet and heels.
I found this really helped reduce the pain.
Have a birthing ball handy. These are great for sitting and leaning
on and can help increase contractions.
Inhaling sharply and deeply in through the nostrils and very slow
and controlled out through the mouth when the contractions
surge. Helps take the edge off.
Even though you don't feel like it, take a walk. It really gave me
focus, got me out of the house and cleared my mind from silly
thoughts.
For any unexpected eventuality, pack your bag (For you - maternity
towels, breast pads, a nice sweet treat of choice for the following
day as your appetite decreases, comfy clothes, wet wipes to
freshen yourself up if you can't shower. For baby - nappies, wet
wipes, baby grows, hat, mitts and booties, blanket)!
Labour posture - Supported Squat
This really helps open the cervix and I found it really comfortable
and felt very supported when aided by my hubby.
This can be done either by squatting in front of your husband
whilst he is on a birthing ball (he can also give your shoulders a nice
deep rub too). Or you can hold onto a door handle, end of a bed
and lean backwards into the squat. Either way is really nice and
helps ease pain.
By Abi Adams
Oolong
07951 101 049
www.loveoolongtime.com
Please do not use if suffering from synthesis pubis dysfunction (SPD).
Each month we review an amazing selection of new and innovative
products, fashion wear, baby and toddler essentials and travel systems
and this month is no different! This month we had the chance to
review the a brand new travel system from Ickle Bubba (you have to
love the name!) and also one for the families with multiples, the Joovy
Caboose 2 (The Big One!) This month we continue reviewing the
fabulous books being released and weve also been given a few
samples from the new collection of maternity wear from Tiffany Rose
for all you expecting mums.
As always, if you would like to join our focus group and join our review
panel, please contact me at info@babybuzzmagazine.com.
Book Reviews -
Toddlers - 6 years old
A fabulous idea on how to keep
your children occupied whether
getting dinner ready or to just get
creative minds flowing! Cuddle,
doodle and draw away with Maisy
and her friends with this amazing
doodle book. With 50 different activities to keep small hands
busy this is a great and inexpensive way of giving your child
something fun to do!
Of course, its not just for mealtimes, this book is great to take
away with you too if you are going out on your travels whether
it be plane, train or car journeys!
Author: Lucy Cousins
Age: 3+
Price: 7.99
Buy From: www.walker.co.uk
A beautifully illustrated book by author
and illustrator Ed Vere about a fearless
kitten called Max. A very easy to read
and fun interpretation of the old cat and
mouse tale. Adults and children will love
this book, making it a great bedtime
story.
Author: Ed Vere
Age: 3 - 5 years
Price: 11.99
Buy From: www.puffin.co.uk
An adorable pirate picture
book with a beautifully rhyming
story that all little boys are sure
to love. You can turn this story
into so much more with a little
imagination (and maybe a little
dressing up) that your child will
want you to read it to them every
night.
Author: Michelle Robinson & Nick East
Age: 3 - 5 years
Price: 6.99
Buy From: www.puffin.co.uk
A very brilliant way of helping your children
understand that its not nice to be mean or
horrible to your friends and that you should
do your best to make things right, perhaps a
lesson we could all learn as adults too. Books
with meanings behind the story are fast
becoming popular and I think are a great way
of teaching our children valuable life lessons.
Beautifully illustrated and written by Michael
Foreman, this story is one that wont grow
old.
Author: Michael Foreman
Age: 5+
Price: 11.99
There are an amazing array titles
under the Early Reader banner with
something to suit every child. Weve
had the chance to review three of
them with the first being Monster
Finds a Home.
I almost wish I were 5 years old to
read these fabulously detailed books
that encapsulate your child into the
world of make believe. Such a easy
story to get through but one that is
fun and upbeat, you almost bounce
along with Monster!
The story is a very jolly tale about a
brother and sister who want a pet
and their mad scientist mother & father create one for them - introducing
Monster who is snuggly and fun and eats lots and lots of green porridge!
A fantastic book that you should definitely encourage your child to read
again and again!
Author: Steve Cole (Illustrated by Pete Williamson)
Age: 5+
Price: 4.99
Buy From: www.orionbooks.co.uk
As many of my readers will know, I am
a keen Grow Your Ownr - not that I
am the best at it but I do try. This
book is a good understanding about
the process of growing your own
(carrots) and then at the end of the
book there is actually a very simple
guide / instructions on how children
can do exactly that!
Well drawn and very much easy to
follow, this book is great for schools
who want to have their own veggie patch as well as families who
arent sure where to start. Thoroughly enjoyed by us.
Author: Claire Burgess (Illustrated by Marije van Veldhoven)
Age: 5+
Price: 4.99
Horrid Henry is a very popular television
programme for children and has been turned
into a series of books for children to read.
In this book, Henry is up to his dastardly ways
again but this time at Aunt Pollys wedding! As
is the norm, Henry gets up to no good and
causes as much mayhem as possible. His poor
little brother Peter gets caught up in the mess
and his family deal with the aftermath.
Fun story line that any fan of Horrid Henry will enjoy!
Author: Francesca Simon (Illustrated by Tony Ross)
Age: 5+
Price: 4.99
A great read that although targeted towards 5+
children, I really enjoyed reading (over a number of
nights) to my 3 year old.
She became more and more engrossed with what
Pigsticks and Harold were getting up to and you could
see her eyes widening as we read each page trying
to take in all that was going on and what was going
to happen.
A fabulous book that gets the imagination running wild. Looking forward
to the next adventures of Pigsticks and Harold.
Author: Alex Milway
Age: 5+
Price: 6.99
Never let it be said that education books
are dull! This inspiration from Nicola Davies
(and illustrated by Emily Sutton) helps us
teach our children all about Microbes.
Beautifully depicted in easy to understand
images and descriptions. A great way to
encourage our little ones to learn.
Author: Nicola Davies (Illustrated by Emily Sutton)
Age: 5+
Price: 11.99
Book Reviews -
For the Parents..
Author: Rob Kemp
Price: 10.99
Buy From: www.eburypublishing.co.uk
Ive read so many books from a mothers
perspective and I think one as written by
dad and so Im always keen to read
something new, especially when its
written by dad. Rob Kemps The New
Dads Survival Guide is brilliantly written
and is a must have for all new daddys to
be and new daddys! Theres no excuse
now - youve been given the helping
hand as to what to expect and the best
ways in which to do it! As all mums will
know there is a Bounty Pack given to
mums during and just after their
pregnancy, well this is a must have
inclusion to give dad a helping hand!
Mums if need be, invest - it will be one
of the best things you do!
A fabulous way of helping new and existing
mums who just need a little helping hand.
Dr Claire Winstanley uses her medical
experience as well as common sense as a
parent to give concise, clear cut
information ranging from an amazing
medical breakdown of different issues your
child could face to feeding, sleeping and
relationships.
As any parent will tell you becoming a parent is a tough thing to
adjust to, surely having such sound advice and knowledge can only
be a good thing!
Author: Dr Claire Winstanley
Price: 12.99
Buy From: www..co.uk
Dr Claire Winstanley is a GP currently based in Bristol and
mother to 3 young children. Her interests within medicine are
diverse and amongst other things have led her into a
fascination with all alternative therapies, acupuncture, and to
a Chinese herbal medicine Diploma. She is greatly interested
in diet also and how it affects a persons health and wellbeing.
Above all, she enjoys the variety general practice offers and
the challenges it presents.
Book Reviews -
School Age
Author: Liz Pichon
Age: 9+
Price: 1099
Buy From: www.scholastic.co.uk/tomgatesworld
By: Orion Childrens Books
Age: 7+
Price: 4.99
Author: Pippa Funnell
Age: 7+
Price: 4.99
Buy From: www.orionbooks.co.uk / www.tillysponytails.co.uk
Author: Kate Pankhurst
Age: 7+
Price: 4.99
Author: Richard Brassey
Age: 7+
Price: 4.99
Author: Russell Hoban (illustrated by Alexis Deacon)
Age: 7+
Price: 9.99
The illustrations of Jims Lion are what grab you
first - they are striking!
I love how the book stops with the words and
you have pages with the most incredible
illustrations almost to b left to your own devices
and create your own story, diving deep into your
own imagination. Jims Lion would work well for
any families who have children who are in hospital possibly having an
operation, have an on-going illness. However, it really is a must read
for all children as it is a very poignant story and you cant help but
feel powerful towards at the end.
One of my favourites this month!
Wow, I didnt realise just how big Tom Gates
really was - but then again I am old (according
to my two girls!). Trying to read this just left
me confused so I quite gratefully handed it to
my oldest daughter who at almost 13 really
enjoyed it! I think it must have been the
mischievousness that sealed it for her. She
chuckled her way through with me trying to
understand and her just exhaling in exasperation at trying to explain!
Okay I give up!
Author Liz Pichon was a World Book Day author in 2013 with the
bestselling title of the event, Tom Gates: Best World Boo k Day Ever
(so far). The first book in the Tom Gates series The Brilliant World of
Tom Gates won the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2011; The Best Book for
Young Readers - Red House Book Award; and the Best Fiction for
5-12-year-olds category of the Waterstones Childrens Book Prize.
Tom Gates: Genius Ideas (mostly) won the Blue Peter Book Award
2013 and was shortlisted for the Specsavers National Book Awards
Childrens Book of the Year 2012.
Most parents with children at school will
have heard of the BBC Programme Deadly 60
where they showcase the worlds deadliest
animals! Following on from the series is a
great range of books from Reptiles &
Amphibians, Mammals, Minibeasts, Spiders
and Insects, Fish, Squid and Jellyfish and the
one we reviewed Bizarre Beasts. The book
contains an array of beasties along with an
amazing collection of facts, most of which we
dont realise! A great gift idea for a party bag
instead of a bag of sweets and silly toys!
A really fun mystery for the younger child. We
gave this to a younger child of a friend to read
as Mia felt she was too old for it. The friends
daughter, Clare, thought it was a very funny
book and mum was really pleased that she
became so engrossed in it (any time away from
the TV is a good thing!). Mum will be investing
in the other books in the series with the hope
they will go down just as well!
Great job tackling the younger girls in something that will create
imagination and encourage reading!
A fantastic book written by a champion rider
and Grand Slam winner herself! Tillys Horse,
Magic is the next instalment from Pippa Furnell.
This story watches how Tilly grows with her
horse, Magic and faces new challenges and
tasks leading to the ultimate goal of being
chosen for the Pony Club Eventing
Championship. Beautifully written in a way that
any horse or want to be horse enthusiastic child
will thoroughly enjoy reading.
One for all the daddys out there to
enjoy with the children! A well
illustrated book detailing the historical
highlights of football since its
origination. A real mixture of fun and
unusual facts from famous football
fidos to infamous fouls, dads all over the world are sure to love this
book!
Just in time for the World Cup!!
Travel System & Pushchair Reviews
The last 17 months have since us review many different
styles of pushchairs, strollers, and travel systems most
of which have been highly recognised brands where
reputation has often proceeded them or the press have
made a big deal out of.
I was, therefore, thrilled to be contacted by an amazing PR firm, BumpPR, who we have worked with for quite some time and who
are representing a relatively new company to the pushchair / travel system market called Ickle Bubba. As any parent-to-be, new
parent or even much-experienced parent will tell you, one of the biggest purchases they will make upon finding out they are
expecting is the wheels in which to transport their baby. There are so many varieties on the market already, many of which claim
to be great at everything, many of which cost an arm and a leg and many of which wont last half as long as you need them too!
Coming onto the market with a new product such as the Stomp V2 was no mean feat and overall we were extremely impressed
with what it had to offer.
One of the biggest bonuses about the Stomp V2 is that you can purchase the full system ready to go, therefore taking out any
confusion or stress about what other bits need to be bought in addition to a chassis! Additionally, there are different packages to
go for, so if you already have a car seat you can opt for the Stomp 2-in-1 which has everything you need pram, carrycot, raincovers
etc and saves you 70!
The travel system is delivered in two boxes; one containing the car seat and the other containing the following Stomp v2 chassis
with shopping basket 2 large rear wheels and 2 smaller front wheels carrycot with apron seat unit changing bag with mat
bumper bar hood seat liner cosytoes car seat adaptors instruction manuals.
As other reviewers have mentioned the simplicity in putting the pushchair and car seat into the main chassis is great! The car seat
is by far the lightest weve carried and whilst we only tested it on a very short term basis with a friends 6 week old, we both agreed
that it was sturdy and didnt cause any issues with the weight once said child was placed inside. We loved the hood fabric on the
car seat, carrycot and pushchair as it is made from a light and stretchy material and gave a very clean cut look to the overall product.
The pushchair element is stunning and we loved the finished style. My 3 year old whilst a little big for pushchairs and extremely
heavy was very comfortable sat in this and the 5-point harness was secure, easy to fasten and strong enough to hold even her!
Pushing her around was effortless and very easy to handle and the height of the handlebars ensured we didnt have to stoop over
the pushchair. Unfortunately for us the carrycot proved to be a bit of a stumbling block and whilst the sample we reviewed had
us having to detach the pram fabric from the frame to attach the carrycot fabric (something that was not so easy and became
quite frustrating), having spoken to the people behind the brand they have reassured us that as from July the carrycot fabric will
be attached to the frame pre-delivery! The pushchair comes in a good selection of vibrant colours and provides ample storage
with the shopping basket. It also has the flexibility to use different car seats with the purchase of additional adapters such as
Maxi-Cose and Besafe. Opening and collapsing the Stomp V2 is etremely easy and whilst you need to hands you do adjust very
quickly to how to use it.
For a new pushchair unit it really does have a lot of offer and is a great price for a complete package!
Travel System & Pushchair Reviews
Hauck London - 469.99 (Available from http://www.mothercare.com/
All in One Pram and Pushchair Travel System
Whats Included - chassis, seat unit, hood, carrycot, car seat, cosy toes, rain cover
One of the very first travel systems we reviewed for Baby Buzz Magazine was
the Hauck Malibu All-In-One, which at that time was approximately 289.99
(including changing bag). Whilst we absolutely loved this travel system for the
value that it offered and the quality of the unit we werent surprised to find that
the London was the super upgraded equivalent. With each fixture simply
clicking onto the chassis with no fussing around this really is the most amazing
travel system.
The travel system is delivered in one very large box and contains a car seat
London chassis with large shopping basket 4 wheels carrycot with apron
seat unit bumper bar hood cosytoes car seat adaptors instruction
manuals.
The ease is which you can put together the London is effortless and you can
change between the full set within a matter of minutes. Collapsing and opening the chassis takes just a few clicks and again you
can be on your way in next to no time at all. The chassis folds down remarkably well and fits into the standard boot (our little
Vauxhall Corsa had more than enough room for shopping after this was placed inside.
As our little girl is extremely tall for her age she often struggles to fit into a pushchair so most often than not we walk or get in the
car but she also fits very snugly into the London pushchair and didnt appear to squirm or be uncomfortable. The London comes
into two colours, the Rainbow & Black and also the Cross & Grey both of which are very in keeping with the market trends.
The chassis is very easy to manoeuvre and feels firm under grip. As with the Malibu the shopping basket is more than adequate
to store your essentials and it comes complete with everything you need to get on your way. Hauck are definitely one of our
market leaders when it comes to pushchairs / travel systems and just goes to show, as with the Stomp V2 that not everything has
to cost the earth! Ill be targeting the big name brands in future issues to see if you really get that much better for twice the price!
Anyone up for a challenge?
Visit our website NOW for your chance to win
this amazing travel system.
www.babybuzzmagazine.com./competitions
As this is the review product, please note there will be minimal wear and tear to the wheels.
Maternity Clothing Review : Tiffany Rose
Weve been very fortunate to review a selection of maternity wear from some of the biggest named brands on the market and this month we
have 4 beautiful pieces to review from Tiffany Rose.
Tiffany Rose began in 2003 with a simple aim: to offer pregnant women the chance to wear exciting, elegant, beautiful and well-made designs
for special occasions. The designs are inspired by icons of the 50s and 60s, timeless classics that will never go out of style, with a touch of vintage
or a modern twist. Evoking the sense of special and occasion, they bring to you unusual shades, tonal hues, sumptuous textures and unique prints
- all in classic, flattering and wearable styles. They have dressed famously stylish women from all over the world, including most recently a
member of the Swedish Royal Family for a number of Royal Engagements. The collection ranges from beautifully tailored jersey and lace maternity
dresses, silk evening gowns and their stunning selection of maternity bridal wear. Every single garment in the collection is designed and Made
in Britain. In April 2013, Tiffany Rose also received The Queen's Award for Enterprise - the UK's highest accolade of business success.
The Anastasia Poppy Gown is quite simply,
stunning! Whilst these are all maternity
clothing, I tried this one on and was blown
away with the cut, the quality and just how
it felt and looked. I was a little apprehensive
as to what it would fit like, but even with no
bump this dress accentuated all curves and
made me feel very glamorous. Putting into
the equation that the material is stretchy
enough to enable you to wear continuously
throughout your pregnancy, this is a must
have piece to have in any expecting mums
wardrobe. You can dress up with heels for a
night out or for a summer day a simple pair
of sandals and casual cardigan means you
can wear it anytime for any occasion!
** Baby Buzz Must Have **
149.00
Mummy-to-be Claire Says:
As I am still working, trying to find a pair of smart
trousers that were comfortable was proving to be
a little difficult! The trousers from Tiffancy Rose
however are very soft and the fabric band makes
them extremely comfortable. I have worn these
on a few occasions now and have to say they are a
great investment. They seem to wash really well
(on a cold wash). Will definitely pass these on to
family member or friends when they are expecting.
I love, love the style and elegance of
this top. Ive won it on two occasions
already and the comments Ive received
have been great. I dont have to
compromise on style just because Im
getting bigger. Ive worn this with the
trousers as reviewed here but also with
smart jeans and a pair of boots, both
looked great! Ill be curious to see how
this fits after Ive had my little bean as
Id love to keep wearing it and get as
much use out of it
149.00
69.00
Whether you are expecting or not, you can
never go wrong with a good fitting vest top.
However, finding one that fits nicely over
you bump without putting too much
pressure isnt so easy. The vest top we tried
has ruching detailing on the side and
therefore allows you to grow and have
continual wear. It was a little on the
expensive side at 35 but these have now
been reduced to 21 and for that you get a
quality item guaranteed to provide comfort
throughout your pregnancy.
21.00
For more information and to see the full
collection, please visit:
www.tiffanyrose.com
Health & Beauty Reviews
I love the thought that goes into
certain companies and products and
the Natural Birthing Company is definitely one of them.
The first Midwife developed line of skin treatments has been launched with
the aim of lending new mums a helping hand during pregnancy, postpartum
and breastfeeding, with its DOWN BELOW perineal massage oil, COOL
IT MAMA body spritz, BLISSFUL TINCTURE to help ease discomfort after
birth and BOSOM BUDDIES breastfeeding survival kit.
We were given the opportunity of reviewing a selection of these products
and with a very new mummy (little girl is just over a week old) some of these
have already come in very useful! As mummy has just got into a
breastfeeding routine, Im sure she will need the Bosom Buddies
breastfeeding survival kit and Ill be happy to give the feedback in a future
issue. Our lovely new mummy has just started using the Blissful Tincture
and said that it has started to bring her much more relief.
My first thoughts for this company and its products were just how incredibly
useful they would be to women in pregnancy, labour and after. Instead of
getting a pregnancy pack that contained little to no information or any
useful products, why couldnt they put these into the relevant packs? We
all know as parents that we get our pregnancy pack at 3 months and then
at birth and then sometime after, surely having something like this included
would be so much more valuable! How many new mums have you heard
have experienced engorged nipples, cracking and just extreme pain,
wouldnt it make sense to get them prepared beforehand and give them
the necessary products to help them along?
I almost wish I had the power to create a pregnancy pack myself, with the
products and information I see every month, there are so many wonderful
products and equipment that should be a must have as soon as you see
those two little blue lines..
For more information on Natural Birthing Company, please visit their
website: www.naturalbirthingcompany.co.uk
Ive often been told about children being ultra
sensitive to shampoo and bathing products and as a
result break out in rashes or are left with very dry
skin. We were contacted by the company behind
Nisim - a Newhair Biofactors Shampoo. This one
shampoo claims to been suitable for the whole
family irrelevant of what scalp irritations they suffer
from. Perhaps you are a new mum and your baby
has cradle cap, or maybe its a case of eczema or
psoriasis. We were given a few samples to trial out
and whilst the worse case scenario in our household
is dry scalp and possible dandruff we were keen to see what improvements
it would make. I can agree that it helped with the dry scalp, this has
markedly improved. We have since given a few sachets to other readers
who suffer from more serious ailments and will come back with their
thoughts and results. Nisim not only treats scalp problems but it can also
control hair-loss within one week. With a blend of natural and herbal active
ingredients, Nisim is safe enough even to use on cancer patients and
babies.
For more information, please visit: http://www.body4real.co.uk/
I am definitely one of
those people who likes
lotions and creams and
smellies! We were
contacted about a great
company founded by a
lady called Niki and her
creation Nikis Organic
Balms. Niki has created
a range of wonderful balms each with a distinctive aroma and
purpose. From the Organic Lavender and Chamomile balm for
any multi-purpose use (and Eczema, Psoriasis, Burns Sunburn,
Bites, etc) to the Organic Warming balm (which can be helpful for
Cold hands and feet, Raynauds symptoms, Arthritic pain and
stiffness, Sore, stiff muscles, Cramp) there is something to suit
everyone. My personal favourite is the Lavender & Chamomile
as I put this on my little girl before she goes to bed, the Lavender
has a wonderfully soothing aroma to help send her off to sleep
and isnt too bad for me either. There are 5 different types of
balm and prices start from as little as 4.99 for 10ml. A great
organic product that you can be sure doesnt contain any hidden
nasties!
For more information, please visit: http://www.nikisbalms.co.uk/
Im sure like most women weve
all heard of a certain oil that can
help scaring, blemishes,
stretchmarks etc but that it costs
a considerable amount of money.
Well weve just been given
something new to try! After a lot
of research, there are a lot of
positive comments on how well
this does. Ive been using it on 3 year old scarring and have to say
that the scarring is fading but only very slightly. Considering that
Ive only been using it for less than two weeks, this is a marked
improvement and I have to say for the price of just 1 for the
smaller sizes, Im convinced! Id be curious to know if any readers
have tried it. You can buy it from Savers, Poundland,
HomeBargains and Bodycare. Email me your findings as Id be
intrigued to know how you got on! For more information, please
visit: http://www.rescueoil.co.uk/
With a little girl who constantly
picks up a cold or chest infection
it was only a matter of time
before this came in handy! Low and behold the
day before yesterday saw the tell-tale signs of
sniffling and tissues! So yesterday we started by
trying out the snuffle babe and whilst at first we
had a fit of giggles that it tickled, afterwards it became quite clear
that she was able to breathe clearly and became less irritable.
This is also good for children who suffer from allergies and
hayfever and can help to act as a decongestant.
Snufflebabe the facts - Snufflebabe is a tried and trusted
paediatric decongestant rub for babies and children aged from
three months. Inclusive of natural ingredients, Snufflebabe offers
a safe and mild yet highly effective solution for easing the
distressing nasal congestion caused by the sniffles, colds and
coughs. For more information log onto www.snufflebabe.co.uk
Snufflebabe is available from pharmacies and supermarkets.
RRP 2.54 for 24g.
Baby Products & Essentials Reviews
Loving the new range of baby bottle
from the Netherlands, the S-Bottle.
Designed to reduce the risk of stomach
cramps it has an ergonomic S-shaped design which encourages
a more relaxed posture and eye contact between parent and
child. Developed by the Difrax medical team, these bottles
can be used from birth, are available in 4 sizes 310ml, 250ml,
200ml, 170ml and come in 6 trendy colours (although I have
the limited edition colours with dummy ready for the World
Cup!) From 7.49 per bottle they arent the cheapest but they
certainly work.
For more information, please visit: http://uk-en.difrax.com/
It never ceases to amaze me just
how essential some products are
when you have children. Sadly most
of them cost a great deal of money! We
were curious to try out the Diono Easy View
Mirror (as seen recently in William & Kates
car for Prince George) and it really is a very
handy piece of kit (and all for the princely
sum of just 15 (sorry pardon the pun). This
makes things so much easier to see what you little one is up to
in the back of the car and gives you an element of satisfaction
that you can check they are okay whilst you are driving. Great
product, even better price! For more information, please visit:
www.diono.com
We were very curious to try the new The Essential
Baby Care DVD Guide being sold at Tesco. Topics
include breastfeeding, bottle feeding, sleeping, crying,
nappy changing, introducing solids, everyday care,
health, development, first aid and accident prevention.
The guides are narrated by Professor Robert
Winston and all the topics are explained by experts
including midwives, teachers, doctors & consultants,
first aid trainers and nurses from organisations such as
The Royal College of Paediatrics, St John Ambulance
and UNICEF. We wholeheartedly agree that the best thing is they 'show' you
rather than just 'tell' you how to master key skills, which is really useful
especially for things such as first aid or breastfeeding. A really good, insightful
guide to help any new parent in what is the biggest experience they will face!
The full Essential Baby Care Guide (RRP 19.99) is available now in Tesco.
There are also 6 individual guides on key topics - Breastfeeding, Formula
Feeding, Introducing Solids, First Aid, Your Babys First Month and
Sleeping(RRP 3.99 each). For more information, please visit: www.tesco.com
Ive been very fortunate to review some of the
most stunning baby furniture of the last few
months and this is by far one of the sleekest! If
you arent familiar with the Nuna brand, they
have a range of amazing pieces from the swing
Leaf and their strollers the Pepp and IVVI. This
month we were sent the ZAAZ High chair and it
really is a piece of art - yet has all the functionality
that you would expect from a high chair (except
that it caters from when your child is able to sit
up unaided to adulthood or approximately
100kg!) The ease that you put this together is quite impressive. First
impressions you think it will be quite complex but actually every clicks
together very easily. There is a 3 or 5 point harness depending on age
of child and then you have the full flexibility to remove all the additional
parts and it become a very sleek and attractive chair to use when you
have extra guests! This has to be one of our favourite products to come
from the Nuna brand and Im sure you will all love it just as much! The
seat retails for 180.00 and can be purchased from many outlets
including John Lewis.
We have been extremely fortunate to be able to give the review chair
away in a competition prize so please check out our website
(www.babybuzzmagazine.com) from the end of this week for your
chance to win! The product shown is the same colour as the competition
prize.
For more information, please visit: www.nuna.eu
This year has seen a real
influx of changing bags in
a range of colours and
styles and we were thrilled
to be sent another great
option for parents. The
Metra Bag from JJ Cole is a fabulous, spacious bag that is
available in a range of colours suited for both Mum and Dad to
carry! The full kit fetures a Roomy interior with organizer
pockets Insulated bottle pockets Wallet organizer
Removable padded shoulder strap Pacifier podTM keeps
pacifiers clean and handy Includes GripsTM stroller
attachments and coordinating changing pad
We found some great deals at www.amazon.co.uk where they
had been reduced to just 45.52! A great affordable option.
BabyBjrn are renowned for their
carriers and have to date had over
30 million children carried in one.
However, they are also the creators of
one the most elegant and sleekest of
travel cots called the Travel Cot Light.
This ergonomically designed travel cot
is suitable for newborns and children
up to 3 years old. It's light, durable, easy to fold, and comes
complete with a carry case. It's compact fold and practical carry
case mean it takes up the minimum of space and is easy to take
with you. The adjustable design features generously padded
shoulder straps and a waist belt. This updated take on the classic
design also includes full mesh sides, meaning you can see
everything baby is getting up to. In one quick and simple
movement, the travel cot pops open, ready for use. Then all you
need to add is the mattress, which conveniently folds into the
carry bag. Developed with pediatricians, it provides the right
support for your growing child's head, hips and spine. Both the
mattress cover and cot fabric are removable and can be
machine washed using a gentle detergent. Assembly
instructions included.
We love how simple this is to open and close, and just how easy
it is to pack away in its own little bag. Its not the cheapest
option available but it is one of the nicest and you can be sure
what youve bought is off the highest quality! Prices from
199.99 and can be purchased from many online retailers
including: www.johnlewis.com
Fun & Games Reviews
Galt recently launched their
Marble Racer, an exciting marble
construction game in which up
to four players can build a high
speed marble race track and
compete against each other to
reach the finish line. This exciting
construction set features three
special racing pieces; a starter
gate, a racing vortex and a
podium, as well as a variety of chutes and wheels for a really fascinating
race. Whats more, the Marble Racer is also fully compatible with the Galt
Marble Run!
Oh boy, can this get competitive! As an adult Im ashamed to say nothing
was getting in my way, sorry Mia (yes, yes I know 13 years to ++years!) I
have to say the game is fantastically priced for what gave us a good few
hours of fun! This wont be put away for too long as you can design so many
different tracks trying to improve on your previous one. Really great fun!
Prices from 24.99 - For more information please visit: www.galttoys.com
Have you ever thought what could you get for the child with
everything or wanted something so unique that you could be
sure no one else would think of it first? Ive just found the
perfect gift!
KORGs brand new digital tinyPIANO, is striking a chord with
both parents and children, and is a great way to get young
children away from modern technology and help encourage
creativity at an early age. The new tinyPIANO is not a mere toy;
it comes from the same stable as KORGs world renowned digital
pianos and traditional design and construction mean its a real
piano in miniature - a family heirloom to be handed down
through generations. tinyPIANO is lightweight, compact and
strong and can be moved easily, taking up minimal space when
stored. tinyPIANO is battery-powered allowing it to be played
anywhere. The real wood cabinet gives a natural and warm feel
and is available in four different colours Black, White, Pink and
Red. tinyPIANO has the same high quality sound as KORGs
full-sized digital pianos and has 50 in-built demo songs that can
be as a music box. The famous classic tunes include Twinkle,
Twinkle Little Star, Happy Birthday and Jingle Bells.
This really does give the biggest wow factor weve seen and it
provides hours of (albeit noisy) fun! Whilst not the cheapest at
239.99, this is a gift no one will forget! For more information,
please visit www.korg.com
Anyone who knows Lillie Poo
knows how much of a crazy fan
she is of Peppa Pig! She
absolutely love it! The Peppa
Pig 35 piece giant muddy
puddle jigsaw puzzle has a brightly coloured
image that shows Peppa Pig having fun
jumping in a giant muddy puddle with all her
friends and family. At 3 years old she could just
about complete this puzzle with little interference
from me, needless to say once it was built it was all dismantled
and redone, over and over and over . There are no straight
edges to this jigsaw puzzle making it even more fun for children
and because all the jigsaw pieces are larger than standard jigsaw
pieces, little ones will find it even easier to place the puzzle
together. This fabulous puzzle is suitable for children aged 3+ and
measures 100x70cm (approximately) when finished - making it
the biggest floor puzzle that Jumbo Games have ever produced.
Available from all good retailers including Amazon, www.jumbo.eu
12.99
A fantastic Giant Foam Floor Puzzle includng nine
giant puzzle pieces that are brightly coloured and
extremely durable so they can be enjoyed and
pieced together inside and outside. You can
combine the different pieces from Jumbos Giant
Foam Floor Puzzles to create an enormous floor puzzle from
the 5 different themes. The puzzles are suitable from 3+ and
measure 90x90cm when finished. Really great fun and one
of the first things she wants to play with.. Great at 14.99!
We love everything to do with bath time and there are
so many amazing toys and game that you can get! One
of our favourites seems to the latest offerings from
Skip Hop with the DUNCK. With their new colour
combination (pink,yellow and orange) the set of
three floating bath toys are bound to thrill both
boys and girls! These multi-function colourful
ducks can stack, float and pour, providing
endless bathtime fun, while also doubling up as
mum and dads rinse cups for swiftly getting
baby clean. With their sleek curves, these bird
shaped toys are easy for little hands to hold on
to and once bath time is over the three toys stack up neatly for easy storage.
Our little DUNCK toys seem to follow us everywhere and get included in most
everyday games, so weve had great usage out of them and all for just 10.00.
Suitable for use by children aged 10 months plus, DUNCK is moulded from
BPA-Free, Phthalate-Free and PVC-Free plastic. DUNCK is also dishwasher
safe so can be given a thorough clean every so often. For stockist stockist
details visit Maguari at www.maguari.com or telephone 01293 774924.
I was first introduced to the
Hexbugs at a friends house after her
little boy had them racing all over
the floor! The sheer joy and delight
on his face as these little creatures
scurried around was brilliant. So when given the opportunity to try out the
latest incarnation, the Hexbug Aquabot, there was really only one person to
give it to! The latest incarnation of the popular HEXBUG Aquabot offers all
the excitement of owning a pet but with a spooky twist! !! The new HEXBUG
Zombie Aquabots (RRP 7.99) translucent black exoskeleton casing glows in
the dark for fun robotic play, day or night. Its lifelike behaviour, created by
electro-magnetic propulsion, is eerily mesmerising as it dives and dashes
around underwater ! These micro robotic creatures, which aim to get kids
thinkingaboutthesciencebehindthem,usesmartshtechnologytoactivate
when dropped into water.
Suitable for ages 3 and up, the ghoulish HEXBUG Zombie Aquabot will be a
terrifying treat for any child. ! Needless to say we had one very happy and
excited little boy who was thrilled to pieces with the newest collection! I think
I may have caused a few issues with mum though Available now at
www.toysrus.co.uk
Food, Kitchen & Gadget Reviews
Part of a sell out range and gaining in popularity, Amanzi has seen
celebrities and consumers alike moving their children onto tea
as an alternative to sugary drinks. This is also part of a growing
trend for children to consume adult orientated products such as
the babycino and green superfood juices, as tastes for mature
food continues to grow in the childrens sector. An example of
this is the Coco Loco, a caffeine free tea blended with Honeybush,
Chocolate and Caramel.
We had a sample to try of the Coco Loco and thought it was quite nice, you
only need a small amount to diffuse with hot water. The flavours are quite
strong but overall tasted very pleasant. Not too sure if they will catch on for
children as such but adults who like their herbal teas will love the variety that
Amanzi have created. For more information, please visit www.amanzitea.co.uk/
Another really popular craze to hit the market at the moment
are coconut waters whether they are straight and organic or
flavoured. The leading producer of premium quality coconut
water is venturing into the childrens market with its new
range Jax Coco Kidz. Recently launched on the 1 May at
Harvey Nichols, Jax Kidz introduces a youthful take on pure,
micro-filtered coconut water.
We had the chance of sampling a few of the five flavours
(which include original coconut, banana, chocolate, guyabano
and calamansi and were really surprised at how good they
were. A great healthy alternative for children (just 50 calories
per juice box) and a great price at 4.25 for a pack of 5 x 110ml juice boxes.
Available from www.harveynichols.com
I absolutely love my kitchen gadgets
and one of the best additions to our
kitchen was the Tefal Fresh Express.
The Fresh Express is a really ingenious
creation designed to make your life that
much easier when chopping or
preparing vegetables! With 5 blade
attachments you can make the most laborious of tasks whizz by
and have a little bit of fun in the process - great for salads! Very
sad to see it go back, but a definite must have for any kitchen.
Retails for 45.00 For more information, please visit:
http://www.homeandcook.co.uk
Ive been a fan of bottlegreens sparkling presses for a while
and often drink their Elderflower sparkling water so when we
were asked to try out two new products we didnt hesitate.
One of the biggest benefits of bottlegreen is that they dont
contain artificial sweeteners or artificial flavours. The two new
cordials recently launched are 1) raspberry and grapefruit cor-
dial and 2) Lime cordial (The only premium and natural pure
lime cordial on the market. Both are rich in flavour and give a
full flavour to your drinks, a really nice alternative to squash.
Both options are just 3.15 for 500ml and are available from Sainsburys,
Tesco and Waitrose. For more information, please visit:
www.bottlegreendrinks.com
Im pretty sure most of my readers will
have heard of the Brita Water Filter Jugs
that many of us will have at home or
friends will have. They have now
launched a version which you can take
out and about called the Fill&Go. This
has to be one of the best products weve
reviewed in the last few months purely
for the simplicity and overall benefits it
has. Thanks to the little filters that fit
into the cap of the bottle you can now
just refill your bottle with ordinary tap
water and thanks to the filter it takes
out all the impurities giving you a great
tasting filtered water. A great way of
saving money instead of buying water whilst out and about and mine now
goes with me everywhere! From 10.00 (available at Tesco) you can
purchase a pack of 8 filters for just 8.00 (you need to change the filter
every week! Highly recommended by us! For more information, please
visit: http://www.brita.co.uk/
Anybody who has children and has an
iPad or iPhone understands that little
fingers and expensive gadgets usually
result in cracked screens, dropped
phones or soaked in water or juice!
Whilst this isnt the cheapest of cases
or the prettiest of cases, it certainly
covers for all eventualities! From being
water proof, dirt proof, snow proof and
shock proof Lifeproof have clearly
thought of the parent! Available in an
array of colours the new fr case is
really essential! A great option for the keen sportsman too
where you dont want to leave your phone behind. Retails for
69.95 For more information, please visit:
http://www.johnlewis.com or http://www.otterbox.co.uk
We love, love, love these headphones!
These stylish & clever headphones are
perfect for gadget lovers regardless of
age & will ensure those wires stay
untangled. Available in red, black &
white they are an absolute bargain at
just 13.99.
www.mobilefun.co.uk
I loved this when I first saw
it and thought it would
make an excellent gift (to
me of course). So what
exactly is it? Well its a
Chocolate First Aid Kit. We
all need a little bit of TLC so
take a break even if you
haven't got a headache with
these appetising chocolate
chill pills and first aid kit!
Made into mourish medical equipment, the box is packed with
chocolate in the shape of plasters, mini thermometers, pills and
emergency bars!
Available fromwww.prezzybox.comfor only 19.95!
Restaurant Review at:
I had heard about the giraffe restaurant chain through mutual friends and colleagues
but hadnt actually had the opportunity of visiting it before, until now. As giraffe are
teaming up with the British Dental Health Foundation for National Smile Month (19th
May 19th June) to bring kids free milk in their restaurants nationwide, as well as a
host of other tooth-tastic activity, we thought it would make an ideal opportunity to
go along and see what it was really like.
When we arrived at the restaurant it was just hitting lunchtime and there were
already a few people sat down ordering. The Muswell Hill branchis very friendly,
clean and has ample space for pushchairs. We were sat in a booth towards the rear
of the restaurant which suited perfectly and we were attended to pretty much
immediately. Lillie was given a colouring in placemat and container with several
crayons along with an assortment of little plastic giraffe toys (younger children do
need to be careful as these are a little sharp in places, but the host was very quick
to point this out), needless to say Lillie loved the crayons and the giraffe toys! After
briefly being sat down for 2 minutes, Lillie declared she needed the bathroom which
gave us a good opportunity of seeing what the facilities were like. I have to say we
were quite disappointed. The flush on the toilets were far too high for a child to
reach, even for children slightly older than Lillie who can use the bathroom
unattended. The wash basins were also very cramped and it was almost impossible
to see the hand dryer. The final bit of disappointment was the baby changing table
- this was outside of the main toilets but immediately outside the gents door, so it
would have been a very tight squeeze trying to change your child.
I ordered a large cappuccino and was thrilled to see it really was a large not just
larger price! The main menu has a wide variety of dishes from all over the globe and
the childrens menu is pretty much the usual with omelette, pasta, bolognaise,
burgers, popcorn chicken etc something for everybody. They have a great meal deal
for 4.95 which includes a main and a soft drink and puddings for children are extra,
I would possibly create an all inclusive menu option for children with dessert. The
main menu didnt have any gluten free signs but by looking at it, it was apparent that
some of the dishes would be suitable and perhaps it was just a case of asking.
For the starter I had a mixed meze with flatbread. This dish was great and full of
different little tasters. The Haloumi had been cooked to perfection and wasnt over
salty and couple with the red pepper dip, it was a match made in heaven (in fact I
wanted more of the red pepper dip as this was great with everything on the plate!)
The tzatsiki was a little bland but the humus and tabouleh and bulgar wheat salads
were delicious. It was the falafel that surprised me most - renowned for being dry
they were superb and I would have happily eaten more! Lillie opted for Fish and
chips and peas and whilst she declared she didnt like it, she promptly polished off
most of her dish and stated that was nice! How to confuse a chef by a 3 year old!!
Sorry!!
The main course was, quite simply, a work of art! I had
ordered the hot duck stir fry, which came with a chili
jam and a few large chunks of duck (it would have been
nice to have a little more). The crunchy noodle
decoration did become a little frustrating at times as
it was quite brittle and so kept snapping off and falling
out of the bowl but overall the flavours were incredible
with just enough of a chili kick.
Pudding was just to die for! Ive always been one to
look at a menu and see Key Lime Pie and think meh,
not for me. Oh my gosh, I am converted! I dont know
what the chef has done to create this little piece of
heaven, but I know what Im going back for. I almost
wish Id ordered the whole thing to take home. The
sauce that it was served with was just on the balance
of being too tart but this is what perfectly offset it to
the creamy taste and consistency of the pie! It was
beyond perfect! Would we go back, absolutely!! I can
already taste the Key Lime Pie hmmmm..
For more information, please contact:
348 Muswell Hill
Broadway, London, N10 1DJ
Tel: 020 8883 4463
Website: http://www.giraffe.net/
Rosabelle Dress Sapphire 139.00
Slimfit Trousers Black 96.00
Jewel Block Dress Coffee Bean 89.00
Jersey Camisole Cream 35.00 Amber Dress Midnight Blue 139.00
About the Founder
Tiffany began her career as an interior decorators
assistant for Nina Campbell, working later as a
marketing manager for a London law firm. At the
end of 2003, after entertaining the idea of owning
her own business for a number of years, she founded
Tiffany Rose, a maternity label specialising in
occasion and bridal wear. Inspired by her pregnant
sister who was searching for a dress to wear to a
wedding and with an initial investment of just
1,000, Tiffany recognised there was a gap in the
market for beautiful maternity wear designed to
flatter pregnant figures and to ensure women feel
fabulous during all stages of pregnancy.
Incorporating exquisite fabrics, elegant styles and
classic tailoring, Tiffany Rose was born heralding a
permanent change in the way brands and consumers
view maternity wear. Now in its tenth year, Tiffany
Rose is a pioneering enterprise with a multi-million
pound turnover, shipping hundreds of orders a day
and with sales more than doubling every year into
markets including the US, Norway, Australia,
Sweden and Denmark.
From the outset, Tiffany Rose has been proud to
support British manufacturing with each and every
garment designed, draped and manufactured in the
UK - a luxury rarely afforded in fashion. With an in
house design team based in Surrey and
manufacturers across England, the company has
developed a skilled network of partners, which
allows the business production flexibility from
'design to rail', unrivalled expertise and unmatched
quality control.
Heritage and service are rooted in the brand's key
values with fashion and retail being in the London
family since the early 19th Century: Tiffany's great,
great grandfather founded the renowned British
fashion house "Louis London & Sons" in 1851 and
the business was subsequently run by three
generations of the London family. Tiffany Rose
values its custom and goes the extra mile to offer
unparalleled customer service reflecting on their
in-depth understanding of their customer.
Currently Tiffany Rose is sold in over 80 countries.
Tiffany Rose garments are a favourite with
celebrities and have been worn by the likes of Holly
Willoughby, Emma Bunton, Myleene Klass and Kate
Silverton in recent years.
www.tiffanyrose.com
Anastasia Gown Long Poppy 149.00
Ava James website will be launching May 20. Please follow their
social media platforms for an amazing upcoming contest!
Assorted Party Dresses, from 27;
Sand Waistcoat, from 23; Sand
stripe Trousers, from 17, Sandals,
from 35, Sandals, from 35,
Ballerinas from 29, Shoes, from 45
Polka dot and grey & yellow print blouse from 19,
Yellow Perfect Fit Trousers from 17
Blush cardigan, from 19;
Floral Print Blouse, from 19;
Jeans, from 21
Grey Marl Cardigan from 23,
Dress untreated from 25
Cropped Jeans stonewashed from 16,
White Hooded T-Shirt from 19, Taupe
Shoulder Bag 17
Coral long sleeved T-Shirt from
8, Chestnut Trousers from
19, Coral check long scarf 9
Mary Jane Shoes From 45
Orange & beige neck warmer 8, Grey
marl t-shirt 9, Chestnut cardigan from
23, Jeans stonewashed from 19
Poppy Beige Sweater, from 19; Chestnut
Cardigan, from 23; Grey Marl T-Shirt, 9;
Stonewashed Jeans, from 19; Jeans, from
19; Cap, 9; Trainers, from 29; Trainers,
from 27
Cornish Printed T-Shirt - 15
Twill Shorts - 24
Flower Bike Applique T-Shirt- 19
Twirly Whirly Skirt - 24
Cornish T-Shirt- 14
Seaside Playsuit - 18
Beach Short - 18 Applique Envelope Top 18
KneePatch Crawlers - 18
Reversible Snuggle Fleece - 30
Twill Shorts - 24
Boat Neck Party Dress - 17
Pretty Party Dress - 26
Flower Button Dungarees-
25
Pretty Party Dress - 28
www.welovefrugi.com
I had the pleasure of going into Kiddicare Enfield last weekend and not only was I amazed at the store and what it had to offer but
also the clothing ranges. I have to say one of my favourites was the Frugi collection. I am yet to see such a varied selection of
clothing that cater from babies 0-3 months up to 10 years old. Some of the items were classic in style and were effortlessly stunning
whilst others were super modern and very much on trend. Ive highlighted some of my favourites below but to judge for yourself,
head to your nearest Kiddicare store or local stockist and check out the full collection - believe me, you wont be disappointed!
Home & Furnishings - Exclusive
At Baby Buzz Magazine we love searching for new products, themes and ideas. to show how to make the most of your
childs space. To kick start our Home & Furnishings section this month, we have great pleasure in introducing you toRoom
to Grow. Check out our review in next months issue of their gorgeous Stompa Play 3 - Cabin Bed with Play Tent and Slide,
needless to say I am very excited to see my little girl have so much fun with her bed. Room to Grow have a range of
beautiful furniture and accessories to make your childrens bedroom, play area or den something truly special.
About Room to Grow
Once upon a time parents and their children could never agree on what was best for each of them. The age old battle raged between
the wants of the child against the practical needs identified by the parents. Hunting for beds was no exception, where the child craved
space and adventure and the parents demanded functionality and storage. All in all, this led to some very unhappy children together
with miserable parents, locked away in a bedroom nightmare. So it came to pass in the year 1996 that a shining knight appeared with
magical key to unlock the nightmare and make everybody happy again. The knight in the guise of Room To Grow provided a range of
practical solutions - cleverly designed beds, furniture and accessories that allowed fun, functional and fabulous bedrooms to be created,
satisfying even the fussiest of children.
1) Teamson Sunny Safari Bookcase with Drawers - 125.00
2) BabyFace Bunting - 19.99 3) Teamson Transport
Themed Step Stool 49.50 4)Stompa Uno Small Clip On
Shelf - 26.40 5) Teamson Magic Garden Table & Two
Chairs - 199.00 6) Thuka Trendy 12 Cabin Bed - from
240.00 7)Magic Garden 3 Bag Storage Unit - 149.00 8)
Izziwotnot Tempo Ribbons & Rosettes Raised Bed - 349.00
9) RTG Play Wild West Wigwam - 176.00
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
www.roomtogrow.co.uk
9
1) www.yoursportsid.com is the
only website that allows you to
personalise a selection of
Premiership footballs and
merchandise. An ideal Fathers
Day gift for you to let your Dad
know that hes number one this
season. The website allows you
to design the perfect individual
gift for all football fans.
Footballs start from 12.00.
2) Finest Cufflink Box of Assorted
Chocolates, 125g 6.00 -
www.tesco.com
3) Baby hands and feet are cast by
hand in glass to capture unique
moments in your newborn's life:
Baby Feet start from 1,020
http://wrightsonandplatt.com/
4) Micro Scooter - Proving youre
never too old! From 139.95
www.microscooters.co.uk
5) For all the Game of Thrones
enthusiasts out there, this
exciting new product from 4D
Cityscape will give Game of
Thrones fans a chance to build
Westeros from the ground up.
39.99 www.hboshopeu.com
6) Dad Tankard Mug - 5
www.cargohomeshop.com
7) The Jermyn is the ultimate
cufflink box. In smart tan leather,
its wealth of compartments can
organise even the most unruly
cufflink collection. Superbly
finished with magnetic clasp and
even a carrying handle, our
Jermyn box makes a fabulous
present for men of all ages.
75.00
www.leatherandlavender.co.uk
8) Vivofit, Blue - 99
www.garmin.co.uk
9) Gingerbeer, 1.50 275ml
www.fentimans.co.uk
Embers Camping has announced it is to open a second site in the South
East near Lewes in East Sussex for the summer 2014 season, following
the successful launch of its first UK campsite in Beaulieu, New Forest
last year. Situated in the beautiful Bentley Country Park near the village
of Halland, Embers Bentley offers guests the chance to camp on this
stunning 700 acre estate. It will offer a campfire at every pitch one
of the key elements of the Embers Camping concept; plus a host of
modern facilities and on-site attractions to ensure guests have a
memorable outdoor adventure.
Embers Bentley, which is available for bookings from 16 May 2014,
offers a contemporary yet traditional camping experience at an
affordable price of just 20 per adult per night, and 5 per child per
night so a family of four will pay just 100 for a weekend break.
Key elements of the Embers Bentley campsite include:
- A campfire at each pitch, plus communal campfire
- Trained staff on-site from dawn to dusk to assist guests
- Modern toilets and shower facilities
- On-site shop selling staple food items and camping accesso-
ries
- Easy-to-assemble tents for hire with pre-pitch option before
arrival on-site
- Activity programmes including hiking, mountain biking, horse
riding, canoeing, and swimming
- Wealth of attractions on-site including the Bentley Motor
Museum, Bentley Tearooms, Bentley House & Gardens, Wild-
fowl Reserve, plus an adventure playground and miniature
railway
- A complimentary ticket to Bentley (Motor Museum, House &
Gardens) is included as part of the Embers Camping package
Ideally located for a short weekend break away, Embers Bentley is just
1.5 hours from London by car or 80 minutes by train (nearest station:
Uckfield).
Murray McPherson, Founder of Embers Camping, said: We are thrilled
to be adding Embers Bentley to our portfolio it is the first campsite to
be located on the picturesque Bentley estate and is within one of the
most beautiful areas of the South East. Im sure our guests will be truly
impressed by the stunning surrounding landscape and the amount of
open-space available at their disposal.
Whether youre a seasoned camper or first-timer, the Embers Camping
experience is camping how it should be a chance to enjoy the beauty
of the outdoors whilst sitting around your own campfire, toasting
marshmallows, stargazing and telling stories.
However, we also recognise that time is precious and expectations are
high so our added on-site concierge-style services are designed to take
away the hassle, meaning guests can just sit back and relax. From
on-site staff and a shop selling local produce, to equipment for hire and
modern shower facilities, Embers really does ignite the passion for
camping!
Following a successful launch in 2013, the original Embers Beaulieu
campsite in the New Forest is also now available for bookings.
http://www.emberscamping.co.uk/
EMBERS PITCHES UP IN SOUTH EAST WITH NEW CAMPSITE FOR 2014
Traditional campfire breaks bring camping magic to East Sussex -
THE BABY BUZZ FAMILY TRAVEL GUIDE
Family-run 5* Roca Nivaria Gran Hotel in Southern Tenerife
offers complimentary Baby Club services throughout the year,
ideal for new parents seeking a stress free holiday and much
needed relaxation in sunny climes. A self-contained oasis of
calm and tranquillity, the hotel is located in the peaceful Playa
Paraso area on the Southern coast of Costa Adeje, just a short
drive from Tenerife Souths international airport.
The Baby Club, located within the hotels impressive Mini Club
facility, is suitable for babies aged from ten months to three
years old and is open daily from 10am 1pm and 1pm -3pm.
The hotels highly qualified and experienced childcare team
consult with parents to provide the best possible care for their
child in a safe, fun and vibrant environment.
With a few precious hours to themselves parents can make the
most of Roca Nivaria Gran Hotels peaceful gardens and host of
luxurious onsite facilities, including an infinity pool with
Balinese chill-out beds which offer views of the Atlantic Ocean,
open air Jacuzzi and large sun terrace on the propertys top
floor.
For a spot of pampering guests can retreat to the hotels Azules
de Nivaria Spa which covers 1,800 sq feet and specialises in a
range of water therapies and packages designed to rejuvenate
body and mind. For more sporty types there are two tennis
courts, gym, archery range and beach volleyball to try out.
With four restaurants and bars the hotel offers a wide choice of
menus from poolside snacks to traditional Italian and Spanish
cuisine, and welcomes families wishing to dine together. To
make life easier for parents, the hotel provides complimentary
homemade soup to babies and toddlers during lunch and dinner
service.
Of the 289 modern and stylish rooms, every standard double
room is equipped with a cot. For couples wanting a separate
sleeping space for their baby, the Junior Suites offer an ideal
arrangement; allowing guests the space and privacy to enjoy a
glass of wine on their balcony or terrace after lights out.
The Baby Club is offered to parents on check-in and on a first
come first served basis and places must be reserved in advance.
Prices at the Roca Nivaria Gran Hotel start from 160 (130) per
night during mid season for a standard double room based on
two people sharing, including half board and taxes.
For further information and to arrange bookings, please visit:
www.adrianhoteles.com
COMPLIMENTARY BABY CLUB AT ROCA NIVARIA GRAN
HOTEL LETS PARENTS LAP UP SOME LUXURY IN TENERIFE
Travel Accessories - Reviews
As a not too confident swimmer I have always looked at
ways of avoiding going swimming. Unfortunately the
downside of this is that I have a little girl who still cant
swim, when most children can at her age and an older
daughter who loves to go swimming but cant go with
no-one to be with her! After all the amazing swimming
costumes and bikinis Ive see and reviewed, it is perhaps
this one that fills me with the most confidence. I
absolutely love that not only does it give the maximum
SPF50+ sun protection, the removable floats allow me to
help Lillie find her buoyancy & help her get more
confident in the water which in turn will give me more
confidence when being in with her!
Benefits
Whilst positioning your child correctly in the water,
(unlike armbands) the unique Float Suits remove any
restriction of arms and legs and supporting the body in
a natural swim position and leaving arms and legs free
to kick and splash! The easily adjustable float system
allows parents to gradually reduce the number of floats
as the child gains water confidence and begins to swim
independently.
Watch this space as Ill keep you updated as to how we
get on at our first swimming pool session together - eek!!
www.splashabout.com
27.99
We all know the importance of keeping our childrens
skin protected in the sun as well as our own and whilst
we havent had the chance to use it much (thanks to our
good old UK weather) we have been sent a range of the
latest in skin care protection. We are impressed with the
Eucerin 50+ as we all want to make sure that our children
are as much protected as possible from the dangers of
skin cancer. The Eucerin lotion is a good thick consistency
and is free from perfume and colorants and is clinically
proven to be suitable for children with allergenic or
dermatitis-prone skin as well as being extra water
resistant! For us adults we have the Nivea Sun Protect
& Refresh spray which can be applied at any angle. The
spray smells fresh without being too over-powering and
is at a factor 30 which should be suitable for most
climates. In case of over-catching the sun we have the
Nivea Sun In-Shower refreshing after sun lotion which is
so simply to apply and smells of refreshing cucumber.
As a mum, I always remind people to keep your children
and you well protected in the sun, better to be safe than
sorry!
For more information, please visit: www.nivea.co.uk
19.50 - Boots
6.28 - Nivea
11.00 - Nivea
I think Ive lost cost on the amount of times my
youngest has declared her need for a plaster,
whether its on her lip for biting it or a little cut
from a magazine, either way you can never have
enough! For your travels however, I quite like
the security of having a quality product that also
happens to be water proof and Elastoplast have
exactly that with Aqua Protect. With extra
strong adhesion they are sure to last the course.
Available from just 2.70 at Tesco. For more
information, please visit:
www.elastoplast.co.net
At first I thought that these things were just
a gimmick but after completely draining my
iPhone on a satnav journey for the 10
time, I began to get really fed up. What a
turnaround! My little Soap Power Bank now
goes everywhere with me and is a god-send!
You simply charge it up, which takes no time
at all, and then thats it, pop it in your bag and off you go!
The Soap Power Bank is the perfect solution for gadget-
loving families on the go, as this one small and light device
will prevent you from having to worry about charging your
devices. With three adaptors, this device provides
emergency power for the familys mobile phones, game
consoles and e-readers; all in one handy and stylish pocket-
sized power bank. The Soap Power Bank is priced at 24.99
& available fromwww.mobilefun.co.uk
Originally used as hammam towels, foutas are now
an elegant and chic lifestyle accessory. Foutas
double up brilliantly as sarongs, tablecloths, wraps
for the beach and are much lighter than the regular
towels, plus they dont collect sand at the beach and
dry in half the time! Babooshes foutas are the
perfect travelling companion and Babooshe's kids
beach towelsfeature bright colours that will stand
out on the sand! Made of 100% cotton with a
beautifully soft texture Babooshe's foutas
arehandwoven in Tunisia.
Starting at 18 with a colour palette of over thirty
colours the range hasthree sizes: 138 x 73 cm, 100
x 200 cm, 200 x 300 cm with honeycomb, bi-colour,
sparkling and chameleon options alongside the
classic fouta.
www.babooshe.com
We were sent a tin of the Rescue Remedy Pastilles to
try out and first impressions by Mia (13 years old -
they look like sweets mummy) - ooh these are nice!
Tick! My turn proved just as impressed with not
tasting like what I thought they would, I had
anticipated them tasting like medicine but I couldnt
have been more wrong! Rescue Pastilles are ideal
for coping with exam stress, driving tests, first day of
school nerves, job interviews and high pressure
environments. The funky tin with an easy press on
the lid opening and closing mechanism.
RESCUE Pastilles cost 5.90 from Boots,
Lloydspharmacy, independent pharmacies and
health food stores as well as grocery stores
nationwide.
I have just received my Bevgo sample and lunch bag and it just
fabulous! The Bevgo Bag can be used either on its own or with
the children's lunch bags (there are currently 4 designs). They
are re-useable. The Bevgo Bag, measuring approximately 11ins
x 8ins, allows you to fill up the bag with any non-fizzy drink
through the screwable cap, once sealed it is leak-proof and can
be put into any bag to take with you when you're away from
home. When needed just dispense from the dispenser. My
youngest daughter Lillie absolutely loves it and carries it
everywhere with her! So practical and so affordable! For more
information, please contact:
http://www.bevgobag.com/
Full Pack: 14.99
Just Bevgo: 5.99
Ne'er cast a clout till May be out the saying goes. But here we are
already and its nearly summer.
Summer brings the long school holidays. If you are a working parent
and are lucky enough to have time off work over the summer, there are
lots of things you can do with the kids for free or relatively little cost.
Activities such as going to the local park, making a simple picnic or going
for a family bike ride can all make for a great day out.
However, its hard to avoid the pester power created by numerous
billboards and TV advertisements for days out at big attractions such as
theme parks, which can turn out to be really expensive for a family. To
bring down the cost, look for vouchers and offers on eg cereal packets
which can halve the entry price. Some big supermarkets have points
schemes which can be exchanged for vouchers, saving you more money
on entry prices. There are lots of ways to save, but keeping the family
happy all summer on a budget requires lots of planning.
Surprises can be found in unlikely places and believe it or not your
employer may be able to offer help to reduce the cost of entertaining
the family. Some employers offer schemes such as retail discounts which
include savings on days out, leisure activities and entertainment. Any
employer in the UK can access the scheme for their staff and as a
member you can receive regular updates about the latest deals. You
night need to buy, for example, a gift card in advance for the
entertainment of your choice, be it a restaurant, cinema or theme park.
Its worth talking to your employer to suggest they offer such a scheme
to staff. Employers which offer them find that such benefits improve
staff morale and retention for very little cost.
If you are a working parent its unlikely you will be able to take time off
for all of the summer holidays. Many parents therefore need to use
childcare in the form of a holiday scheme, activity club or out of school
club. They can be great opportunities for kids to learn new skills and
make new friends while they are being looked after.
There are a wide range of holiday camp providers from which to choose.
Camps can be booked for just one day or for the whole holiday period.
They must be registered with the appropriate body, such as Ofsted in
England so you can be confident in the level of supervision and the
welfare of your child. Some providers have monthly payment plans.
Holiday camps and schemes are available for children from the age of
4 to 16. For working parents who are unable to take enough time off
work to cover the whole school holiday, they may be the only solution
for part of the summer break. The camps provide a wide range of
activities throughout each day including sports, arts, crafts and
nature/adventure activities. They are a great way for kids to use up
some excess energy. Many local nurseries and schools will run holiday
schemes too. Local authorities usually publicise whats available in
advance of the summer break but competition for places can be fierce
as they are not as costly as private schemes. Prices can vary from a
couple of pounds a day to more than the standard daily cost of
pre-school childcare. It depends on the level of subsidy in your local
authority area.
Many holiday scheme providers accept Childcare Vouchers, which are
available to working parents via their employer. Childcare Vouchers are
a voluntary employee benefit so you must ask your employer to provide
a scheme. The scheme will not cost the employer anything to offer and
could save them around 400 per year for each staff member who uses
it. If you join your employers scheme you can currently exchange up
to 243 per month, which is deducted from your wages and is not
subject to income tax or National Insurance contributions, hence you
save money. This amount is exchanged for Childcare Vouchers. Parents
then pay their childcare provider with the vouchers. Through taking
Childcare Vouchers, each working parent can save up to 933 per year.
Childcare Vouchers can be used to pay for holiday schemes for children
up to the age of 16*.
Get them while you still canChildcare Vouchers will not be available
to new joiners after the proposed Tax-free Childcare scheme is
introduced in autumn 2015. To save money for this year and for summer
2015, ask your employer if you can join a Childcare Voucher scheme
now.
For more information about how you can start saving using Childcare
Vouchers or access a Retail Discounts scheme, visit
www.busybeesbenefits.com
*The first week of the September after the childs 15 birthday.
All style and lots of substance!
Ive almost reached the end of the line when it comes to the family cars with VW and
so for this issue we went for something slightly different! As you can see from the
pictures, we had the enjoyment of reviewing the new Golf Cabriolet GT 2.0-litre
BlueMotion Technology. Whilst I know this isnt your normal family car, it certainly has
enough space to have some fun. We were very lucky that on the day the car was
delivered, we had glorious sunshine so of course we did what any self-respecting person
would do. Roof Down! The look on my little girls face when the roof tucked away
into the back was priceless, she couldnt understand where it had gone but that soon
passed into squeals of delight as e drove on. The Golf is extremely easy to handle,
although it is very loud! Perhaps the Diesel option we had coupled with a soft top roof
meant the noise would be more apparent than in any other vehicle. Either way we
then picked up my oldest daughter from school and as we waited for her to come out,
there were quite a few comments as to how nice the car looked. With the leather
heated from sports seats to the sleek dashboard the car certainly provides kerb appeal
and I could see many singletons and couples really loving this car. Friends and family
members mentioned that whilst the Golf appeared considerably bigger than the Beetle,
which we reviewed a few months ago, the Beetle still felt bigger inside and the
suspension provided far more comfort. I also had to explain to the driver collecting the
car that for whatever reason, birds seemed to take a real liking to the car and no amount
of washing kept it clean for very long! To sum up the Golf Cabriolet, it really is an eye
pleaser and for Diesel consumption it is amazing! On a full tank of Diesel we still had
over a quarter of a tank remaining and thats after driving it for almost a week and a
half!Solidly ! Would I choose this as my car of choice, with a family? Honestly, probably
not. This would be for the younger couple or singleton where they can really enjoy it
without any constraints. Still a great car but I think most cars are going to struggle to
live up to the Beetle!
Additional optional equipment on this vehicle:
RNS 510 touchscreen navigation / radio
system with integrated voice control, 6.5
colour screen, six speakers, 30 GB hard drive,
SD card reader, MP3, WMA and DVD video
data files compatibility with AUX-in socket and
MDI (Multi Device Interface) for connection to
an external multimedia source (1,785)
carpet mats, front and rear (85)
winter pack headlight washers, heated
windscreen washer jets and low washer fluid
warning light (285)
upholstery upgrade to Vienna leather
including heated front sports seats with
heated side bolsters and lumbar adjustment
(1,980)
metallic paint (535)
Engine Capacity (litres/cc) 2.0 / 1968 (4 cylinders, 16 valves)
Power Output (PS @ rpm) 140 @ 4200
Max torque (llbs ft / Nm @rpm) 236 / 320 @ 1750-2500
Top Speed (mph 129
0.62 mph (seconds) 9.9
Fuel Economy (mpg) Urban - 52.3; Extra-urban-68.9; Combined - 62.8
CO2 emissions (mpg) 119
Insurance Group 23 E
Warranty 3 years / 60,000 miles; 3 years paint; 12 years
body protection
Breakdown Assistance 1 year Volkswagen Assistance (UK & Europe)
Basic on the road recommended retail price* 26,745.00
*includes 605 (delivery, number plates, VAT, 0 first year rate VED (band C) and 55 registration fee)
Comfort and Convenience:
battery regeneration (recuperation energy
recovery during braking)
Stop / Start function
hill hold function
2Zone electronic climate control with
automatic air recirculation; dust and pollen
filter
electrically adjustable and heated
bodycoloured door, mirrors with integrated
indicators
multifunction computer, Highline, includes
visual gear change recommendation for
optimum fuel consumption
front sports seats with height and lumbar
adjustment cruise control
electric windows, front and rear wind
deflector
ultrasonic front and rear parking
sensors, audible with audio volume
reduction when activated and optical
parking display via vehicles audio
system and reverse activated kerb-view
adjustment on passengers door mirror
automatic coming / leaving home
lighting function; dusk sensor
automatic driving lights; rain sensor and
automatic dimming interior rear-view
mirror
High Beam Assist height / reach
adjustable steering wheel; speed-
sensitive power assisted steering
RCD 310 radio/MP3 compatible CD
player with six speakers and AUX-in
socket for connection to an external
multimedia source; MDI (Multi Device
Interface) with USB and iPod connection
cables
Bluetooth telephone preparation
split folding rear seat backrest 50:50
Isofix child seat preparation
Baby Buzz Rating: 8/10
For our Baby Blankets, I take United Kingdom and
British Falkland Islands Merino Wool, which is
naturally soft to the touch.
Where I need colour, I hand dye it to give varying
depths of shade. The resulting yarn is then washed
in a no-rinse solution before being allowed to air
dry. I don't use any softeners as it doesn't need
any. I then use a hand loom, a design unchanged
in centuries, to weave light, yet warm, Baby
Blankets.
Each blanket takes nearly two hours to create and
each one is made with care and enjoyment.
Blankets are then wrapped in tissue paper, tied in
ribbon, boxed, and sent securely to you or a friend
to give delight.
Your own colour options are
available at no extra cost!'
** 20% off to Baby Buzz Magazine readers,
just call or email us quoting BabyBuzz
LeapFrog, the leader in educational entertainment, has just unveiled Leap-
Band, the first wearable physical activity tracker designed just for children
that encourages active play and healthy habits while nurturing their very own
personalised virtual pet. The LeapBand activity tracker gets kids moving and
having fun with 50 different activities and challenges, tracking a childs
physical movements so the more active a child is, the more points they earn
with their virtual pet. As the child earns points through active play, they can
unlock additional games, challenges, levels of play and virtual rewards for
their on-screen pet. LeapBand has an aspirational fit-band style designed
with kids in mind. High-tech features include a built-in accelerometer, high-
resolution colour screen, rechargeable battery and water-resistant design,
making it the ultimate activity wearable for kids. The device also doubles up
as both a digital and analogue watch.
We understand that helping a child reach their full potential not only in-
cludes helping them learn numbers and letters, but encouraging them to
establish healthy habits and get the exercise they need every day through
play, said Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos, director of LeapFrogs Learning Team.
LeapBand is a great way to get kids up and active and help them develop a
strong foundation for healthy lifestyles. LeapBand takes inspiration from the
growing trend of adult fitness wearable technology and makes it perfect for
kids by bringing the fun and play of physical activities to life with their very
own virtual pets. One of the best parts of the LeapBand experience is that
kids will have so much fun playing they may not realise all of the physical
exercise they are experiencing and the healthy habits they are learning.
Fit Made Fun!
The LeapBand activity tracker comes with eight different customisable pets
from LeapFrogs popular Pet Pals franchise a cat, dog, dragon, monkey,
panda, penguin, robot and unicorn which can be customised by colour and
name. With their very own virtual pal, children can play 10 preloaded active
games and challenges with access to 40 additional free challenges. As they
move and earn points, kids can unlock each of the additional eight pets and
earn virtual toys for each of them as they stay engaged and learning with
mini-games including Pet Boogie, Pet Chef and Pet Salon. Kids will have fun
completing a variety of activities including Walk like a crab, Spin like a
helicopter and Pop like popcorn no matter where they are. LeapBand
activity challenges are designed to keep kids active by tapping into their own
individual movements without any required equipment.
Extend the Fun!
In addition to the active play on LeapBand, the fun is extended to include a
free downloadable companion app called the Petathlon. In the Petathlon
app, kids can compete as their virtual pet in six mini-games like archery,
surfing and bobsledding to win extras including medals and new tracksuits for
their virtual pet. The Petathlon app is available for download to a childs
LeapPad Ultra, iOS or Android smartphone or tablet.*
Availability
The LeapBand activity tracker (RRP 29.99, for children 4 to 7 years old) will
be available in green, pink, blue and orange online and at major UK retail
locations in August 2014. Additional activities and challenges are free and
available for download via LeapFrog Connect for LeapBand.
LEAPFROG UNVEILS LEAPBAND, THE FIRST
WEARABLE ACTIVITY TRACKER FOR CHILDREN,
DESIGNED TO GET THEM ACTIVE AND
LEARNING WHILE HAVING FUN!
For more information, visit www.leapfrog.com/leapband.
The Shnuggle baby bath has joined premium brands iCandy and
Aquafresh as a proud winner of the 2014 Red Dot design award.
This prestigious prize is awarded by panel of internationally
renowned design experts. Forty design experts from around the
world judged the Shnuggle bath to be innovative and beautiful. The
bath is at the cutting edge of design with its iconic curves, specially
created baby-safe material, and attention to detail. Otherwinners
of this year'sRed Dot design award in the nursery categoryinclude
Stokke, Joie and BMWs baby car seat.
As parents to three young children, Northern Ireland-based
Shnuggle founders Adam and Sinead Murphy knew what a baby
bath should do: keep baby warm, safe and upright. They created a
soft foam material that insulates the water. The bath is textured
inside to ensure the baby is stable, and outside to allow for easy
grip. Adam Murphy, Shnuggle co-founder and managing director,
said: Were so proud to have received the Red Dot design award.
We spent a lot of time ensuring that the bath met our strict design
criteria: modern, beautiful, innovative and practical. The Shnuggle
bath has been designed with baby and parent firmly in mind. We
have been bathing our youngest daughter in a Shnuggle bath since
she was just a few weeks old, so we have first-hand experience of
how a well-designed product can help to relax babies.
The Shnuggle baths innovative
design features place it in the top
league of design. The supportive
Bum Bump and sloping back
supports babies from birth up to six
months. The bath weighs just 400g,
so can be carried easily while filled
with water. The Shnuggle bath
comes in a range of colours, ensuring that it stands out from
traditional plastic white baby baths.
Red Dot initiator and CEO Prof. Dr. Peter Zec said: The importance
of a competition is defined only by its credibility. Clear criteria for
granting awards, jury members with integrity as well as excellent
framework conditions for product presentation are the
characteristics of the Red Dot. With the great reliability that these
factors ensure, our award has been uncovering design excellence
in all conceivable product areas for a period of almost 60 years
now.
Shnuggle have been supported by the Invest NI R&D Program. The
company have designed an award-winning Moses basket which
sells throughout the UK, ROI and Europe. Shnuggle have been a
familiar member of the nursery scene since the launch of the
award-winning Moses basket which sells throughout the UK, ROI
and Europe. The brand is known for its baby products that are
innovative, beautiful, and practical.
Shnuggle joins top nursery
brand iCandy asUK Red Dot
design winners !
For more information or to purchase the
Shnuggle Bath, please visit www.shnuggle.com.
Three key words to remember to keep yourself on track as a new Dad ..
Leading relationship research charity OnePlusOne says figures showing
the reluctance of new parents to take up free parenting classes suggest
they may not be best prepared for becoming new parents.
Evidence shows that becoming parents is one of the most challenging
transitions for a couple.
Many parents report a decline in relationship satisfaction with their
partner during this time and parenting classes are proven to help.
Well-developed programmes such as parenting classes for new parents,
can help couples successfully adapt to the challenges associated with
becoming new parents, research shows.
The government set up the CANParent scheme to offer classes for every
parent and carer of children up to the age of five in three local
authorities - Middlesbrough, Yorkshire; Camden, London; and High
Peak, Derbyshire between June 2012 and March 2014.
More than 50,000 parents in the CANParent areas were eligible to claim
vouchers worth 100 to spend on classes through health visitors,
midwives, doctor's surgeries and children's centres.
However, a parliamentary question asked by Shadow children and
families minister Lucy Powell revealed that just 4% of parents took part
in the scheme which cost 2m.
OnePlusOne researcher Dr Hannah Green said: Becoming parents for
the first time is a huge transition for most couples. As new parents juggle
the demands of a new baby they may find that they have less time
together, argue more and are less positive towards each other.
Support during this time is essential in making this transition easier.
We know that good parenting classes can make a difference to couples
who are becoming new parents and in addition they are a great space
for making new friends that are going through the same thing.
The lack of take-up for this scheme suggests that parents may not be
best prepared for, or recognise the challenges of becoming new
parents.
LACK OF SIGN UPS TO GOVERNMENT FREE PARENTING SCHEME, SUGGESTS
NEW PARENTS ARENT BEST PREPARED FOR PARENTHOOD, CHARITY SAYS
Becoming a Dad for the first time is scary, wonderful, confusing and
life-changing all at the same time. You have been through those strange
pregnant months, when all your partner wanted was a tub of ice-cream
at 3am and a chance to lie comfortably and sleep despite having a bump
the size of a bowling ball.
Now, you are home from the hospital and you have a small person to
look after, and not a clue how to deal with this latest transition in your
life. Wait though, its just as easy as remembering these three words
*honest*
Hormones [Raging..]
After childbirth, your partner is likely to be all over the place. The
emotion, pain and excitement of the delivery is one thing, but then
there are the hormones that are coursing through her veins helping her
body recover, and provide for the new baby. Remember this whatever
the reactions that your partner has to you, and the new baby. Its a
difficult time for us all to adjust, nevermind with the added complication
of hormones thrown in. If your partner is out of sorts, or just a little
different; bear this in mind. Particularly if she starts throwing dirty
nappies at you! Bounty have a wonderful guide to post-pregnancy
hormones for Dads, it is worth checking out:
http://www.newdadssurvivalguide.com/articles/The-
Pregnancy/Hormones-explained.html
Sleep [Lack of...]
Be prepared for not getting any of it! Depending on how much you are
helping with the new arrival, you might be up after your partner has fed
the baby trying to settle your bundle of joy, or giving a bottle to your
child at night. Whatever your role, you will need more kip. Go to bed
earlier, and cut back on alcohol, so that the sleep you are getting is good
value. No matter how much you feel like you need another beer, that
extra forty winks might be better for you and your new family.
Roles [Changing..]
Being a father is a completely new role for you to take on; perhaps you
have been the provider, or sharing that role with your partner. Perhaps
you see yourself as protector too. Whatever, your role before your child,
you role is now changed forever! You are a carer, and helping to look
after a helpless little one who needs your attention, love and care. You
have someone in your life that needs you to put them first as much as
possible. Understanding that you are taking on this changing role, will
make your transition to being a father so much easier.
Well done to all those DADS out there. To celebrate fatherhood,
Truprint are giving 50% off the purchase of a mug on their site,
and 70% off two! (Starting at 7.99 each)
USE FATHERSMUG14 at checkout at:
http://www.truprint.co.uk/truprint/photo-gifts/photo-mugs
Offer T&Cs
1. Valid for UK Customers on truprint.co.uk only
2. Code applies discount to all mugs. 50% off mugs when you buy 1 or 70% off when you
buy 2 or more
3. Code FATHERMUG14 is single use only
4. Codes valid until Midnight 10th June 2014
6. Incremental P&P charges apply.
The Foundation for Infant Loss Prevention is offering study
days in keeping babies safe, namely preventative measures to
avoid a cot death. We train childminders, nursery staff and
foster carers in this area and we offer Certification which
installs confidence in childcare professionals and offers
reassurance to parents.
In Autumn 2014, we will publish a directory of all childcare
providers who have been certified by us, classified according to
geographical region, so parents can be reassured when
choosing a childcare provider.
We have over 30 UK venues booked in for 2014 so please
contact the office to book your place: info@chantallockey.co.uk
We are not-for-profit and only ask for a 30 contribution per
head to cover trainers and venue costs.
British born footwear pioneers
VIVOBAREFOOT, founded by
Galahad Clark are set to bring
about a fundamental change in the
childrens footwear market, with a
compelling footwear initiative that
teams education, revolutionary
product and the countrys most
influential mothers. The
international campaign will be
spearheaded by the industrys leading paediatricians and podiatrists
and aims to highlight the importance of footwear in humans growth,
health and development.
Speaking on the launch of their Childrens initiative, Galahad Clark
said, The juxtaposition between the dexterity of a childs foot and
the fluidity of their movement compared to most adults helps to
illustrate the damage that modern footwear can do to the human
body. With so much conflicting information in the Childrens footwear
market we knew it was time to invest our unparalleled resources in
barefoot education and focus on prevention rather than the cure,
looking at protecting our childrens perfectly formed feet from
becoming distorted by modern footwear.
Until now awareness around barefoot has leaned towards running
and rehabilitation; Vivobarefoot want to utilise their extensive
research and respected industry experts to spearhead a change in
global awareness.
Clark continues, The barefoot
philosophy has never been
exclusive to running. The
launch of our childrens
campaign is set to change this
perception by educating
consumers on the health and
wellbeing benefits of leading a
barefoot lifestyle every day.
The campaign aims to
demystify the purchase of childrens footwear, working with parenting
groups to showcase ground breaking research to bring about a change
the universal perception of the footwear industry. As part of their
investment in the childrens market Vivobarefoot will also develop a
new childrens line of barefoot shoes for both school and play,
alongside the provision of training and educational material to engage
both parents and children.
The campaign will initially launch in the UK, followed by an
international roll out.
For further information visit: vivobarefoot.co.uk
VIVOBAREFOOT: ONE STEP AHEAD
VIVOBAREFOOT Launch Global Childrens Initiative
Radiation is a scary word that actually describes a massive spectrum of
wavelengths that we can potentially experience. Classically scientists have been
very clear where in the electromagnetic spectrum danger lies - with Ionizing
radiation including Sunlight and UV, X-rays and Gamma rays (found in nuclear
weapons) posing a threat to health from which we must protect ourselves and
Non-Ionizing radiation going from visible light down through infared, microwaves
to low level radiation as emitted by mobile phones and wifi base stations (masts),
electricity and the Earth itself having the potential to cause only harmless
biological effects. Even in the absence of any external source of electromagnetic
radiation, chemical reactions within our bodies produce their own electrical
charges. The amount of low level radiation in the world has increased
exponentially over the last century. We are flooded with low level radiation
every day - and to a hitherto unknown extent, that's a fact, and we do have
biological responses to it [one interesting anecdote I discovered through a friend
was that "soldiers at WW2 radar stations liked to stand in front of antennas on
cold nights because of the warming effect. This led to development of the
microwave."] but could electromagnetic radiation (EMR) be inherently
dangerous? Those that believe so are worried that long term exposure could be
carcinogenic (cancer causing) and also associated with brain tumours and you'd
have to have been living on another planet to have missed the sensationalist
headlines that have adorned newspapers sporadically since we first welcomed
mobile phones into our lives.
Before launching into my research for this article I thought i knew about EMR
and was intending to echo the precautionary concern of the Council of Europe
Committee on the Environment, Agriculture and Local and Regional Affairs
(CECEALRA) because "waiting for high levels of scientific and clinical proof can
lead to very high health and economic costs, as was the case in the past with
asbestos, leaded petrol and tobacco". Bearing in mind of course that
"electromagnetic fields are reported to be the most common and fastest growing
environmental influence on the population", with 1.4 million base
stations worldwide and a rush to increase this to accommodate ever higher
speedwireless Internet access and greater uptake of technologies... CECEALRA
are lobbying for the world to adopt as 'low as reasonably achievable' positions
on the levels and cumulative amount of electromagnetic radiation we are
exposed to. Furthermore, the period of time we have to study is small right now
and no one can say for sure what's waiting down the line for our children who
will have been exposed to our mire of low level EMR for their entire lives- but
we need to do our best to understand the likely implications for their well being.
The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection ( ICNIRP)are
the global authority on the issue. They advise the World Health Organisation
(WHO) when establishing safe limits of any kind of radiation for their populations.
Their Guidelines could not have blown my mind anymore than they did. In a 31
page booklet they say: "Induction of cancer from long-term EMF exposure was
not considered to be established, and so these guidelines are based on short
term immediate effects such as stimulation of peripheral nerves and muscles,
shocks and burns caused by touching conducting objects and elevated tissue
temperatures resulting from absorption of energy during exposure to EMF".
They labelled evidence supporting cancer concerns 'unconvincing' and failed to
even acknowledge the evidence regarding brain tumours. We're mounting base
stations on schools and places of worship, the majority of workplaces are using
wifi, baby monitors and TV are responsible for emitting the same frequencies...
The WHO website goes into more detail, explaining that results of studies have
been inconsistent but that there is no evidence to suggest significant increases
in cancer risk in children or adults. Furthermore, they claim, a cause and effect
relationship has not been supported by laboratory animal testing (which is far
more reliable).
A separate agency within the WHO, the International Agency for Research on
Cancer (IARC) has this year warned of an impending global epidemic of cancer,
emphasising that prevention and early detection are imperatives but not
identifying EMR as a risk factor, and when presenting the report to assembled
press in London one of their scientists stated that he would have 'no problem at
all' with people of all ages being exposed to EMR 24/7. In 2011 the IARC
conducted specific research into the EMR which resulted in them grading it at
'2B' meaning that it's a 'possible human carcinogen' and one of the team
responsible, Dr Lennart Hardell, is now a campaigner for it to be upgraded to '1,
human carcinogen' in light of further research into brain tumours and mobile
phone use but this is not something the organisation is at present considering.
In his work, Dr Hardell found no link between cancer and exposure, in fact he
found that some cancers occurred less often in users of mobile rather than
traditional phones - an example of the weakness in data derived from studies,
illustrating why we must apply skepticism when looking at results. The IARC has
suggested some ways to limit our exposure: through use of mobile phones is
with a low SAR (specific absorption rate) handset for short calls with hands free
kits or headsets. In response to the 2014 IARC guidelines Hardell has posed the
question "Is there a conflict of interests at the IARC?" and this is a crucial question
underpinning most of the criticism of official conclusions on EMR's safety with
many convinced that industry is holding scientists to ransom to find evidence in
their favour that it is safe. In 1990 extra-budgetary donations exceeded
budgetary donations for the first time and have increased the gap ever since
leading some to question who is the WHO working for now? At present the
biggest extra-budgetary donations are coming from (in descending order): the
World Bank, the CEC (Commission for the European Communities) and the Bill
and Melinda Gates Foundation. ICNIRP's research is conducted by a small group
of experts, working voluntarily, with finance from governments and industry.
They publish their 'interests' which I have had a look at and, unless they're being
coy, they include nothing more suspicious than expenses paid by phone
companies for road trips. The Council of Europe Committee on the Environment,
Agriculture and Local and Regional Affairs (who report to the European
Parliamentary Assembly responsible for legislation) however believes that "there
is sufficient signs or levels of scientific evidence of harmful biological effects to
invoke the application of the precautionary principle and of effective, urgent
preventative measures" and is seeking to convince the EU to reconsider the
exposure standards set by ICNIRP in favour of pursuing the lowest possible levels.
They have a report currently at draft resolution stage which will go on to be
debated by the European Parliament who can amend it, adopt it's
recommendations or reject it.
From my perspective I'm more trusting of the expertise at ICNIRP than I am of
politicos or judiciary who I hope are acting in the public interest but actually don't
understand the science. Whilst the idea of corruption within ICNIRP and the WHO
aren't entirely implausible I find the extent that's being suggested by parties
concerned about EMR unlikely... Population studies in particular (which is where
most of the evidence damning EMR is coming from) are notoriously unreliable.
So, I continue to excitedly anticipate the ways in which connection to the Internet
will become(in the words of physicist Michio Kaku) 'as invisible as electricity' in
our lives to be taken for granted and depended upon, accessible through such
devices as contact lenses and wallpaper, allowing us control and analysis of our
environments as well as connection to the world. The astounding men and
women responsible for these technologies that we are on the cusp of integrating
into our lives must be very erudite and none of them advocate caution with the
EMR that is the foundation from which the new world they're creating will work.
Still, I do find that if something is worth doing, offline, it's worth doing offline.
When I write or play with my children or socialise (eg)... Connection to the
Internet is usually unnecessary at best, a distraction at worst. You can keep your
phone or tablet on for photography or playing Angry Birds (eg) by turning it onto
'Airplane' in the settings menu which will stop you being bothered by calls or
e-mails and EMR (whether or not it's dangerous).As parents, we have to make
personal decisions about this based on a conflicting assertions and evidence.
From my perspective I'm more trusting of the expertise at ICNIRP to reassure
me than I am of politicos or judiciary who I hope are acting in the public interest
but actually don't understand the science. Whilst the idea of corruption within
ICNIRP and the WHO aren't entirely implausible I find the extent that's being
suggested by parties concerned about EMR unlikely... I'm also aware that in
scientific studies the phrase 'no smoke without fire' just isn't applicable- with
the single most suspicious feature of evidence being consistency, as Dr Hardell's
work showed some studies found a link between old fashioned phones and
cancer which we know to be nonsensical. Population studies in particular (which
is where most of the evidence damning EMR is coming from) are notoriously
unreliable... Plus, if you have a look at the electromagnetic spectrum you'll find
mobile phones and wifi somewhere between visible light and AM/FM radio...
So, I continue to excitedly anticipate the ways in which connection to the Internet
will become (in the words of physicist Michio Kaku) 'as invisible as electricity' in
our lives to be taken for granted and depended upon, accessible through such
devices as contact lenses and wallpaper, allowing us control and analysis of our
environments as well as connection to the world. The astounding men and
women responsible for these technologies that we are on the cusp of integrating
into our lives must be very erudite and none of them advocate caution with the
EMR that is the foundation from which the new world they're creating will work.
Still, I do find that if something is worth doing, offline, it's worth doing offline.
When I write or play with my children or socialise (eg)... Connection to the
Internet is usually unnecessary at best, a distraction at worst. You can keep your
phone or tablet on for photography or playing Angry Birds (eg) by turning it onto
'Airplane' in the settings menu which will stop you being
bothered by calls or e-mails and EMR (whether or not it's
dangerous).
By Elizabeth Katherine Hobson
Twitter: ElizabethHobso6
Blog: http://elizabethkhobson.wordpress.com
How much damage? By Elizabeth Hobson
As Prince George embarks on his very first Royal Tour,
escorted by his Mum and Dad the Duke and Duchess of
Cambridge, Great British flight comparison website
compareandfly.com has unearthed the travelling habits of
Prince Georges infant peers in the UK. Based on over 118,800
flight searches made on the flight comparison website,
compareandfly.com has uncovered a number remarkable
trends when it comes to the UKs jet-setting under twos.
Cool Kids Like To Do It on a Saturday
In terms of flights involving an infant passenger (two years or
younger) over 20% of searches saw parents wanting to jet
off on a Saturday. Those keen to dodge sharing their arm
rest with a high-flying little one should consider travelling on
a Tuesday, the least popular flight day for families with babies
and toddlers.
Vienna Baby
When looking at where these toddlers are soaring off to,
there was a surprising front runner Vienna! With over 5% of
all international flight searches from the UK heading to this
Austrian Capital City, it appears that Vienna is the toddlers
trip of choice!
Southern Babes Have Been Well and Truly Bitten By the Travel
Bug
With more flight paths and terminals located in London than
any other UK city its no surprise that there are more
parents looking to fly out of London with their mini
vacationers than any other town or city. However, the fact
remains that over 60% of families looking to fly out of the UK
with an infant will depart from London. Heathrow is the
number one choice for juniors on a jumbo jet with a huge
32.87% baby laden flight searches departing from this airport
in particular. Keen to dodge the dummies and diapers
then head to London City Airport where only 0.4% of parents
are considering flying out of.
Spare Pair of Hands
Much like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, not many
UK parents are brave enough to embark upon a flight with
just their baby as company. With pushchairs, carry cots,
nappies and formula to carry on board; its unsurprising that
72.31% percent of travellers are looking to board with at least
one other adult in tow.
Two or More Stay On the Floor
When it comes to more than one infant travelling in the same
party... Parents seem to admit defeat and opt for alternative
modes of transport or holiday options a whopping 93.77%
of flight searches that included infants only consisted of one
child. However, there were a very brave 0.49% of searchers
considering flying with three or more infants! Just think of the
air miles!
Compareandfly.com was launched in December 2013
providing travellers with a safer, quicker, more reliable and
more rewarding way to book flights, accommodation and
car hire in the UK and abroad. An app to complement the
website will launch in the coming months.
By George! UK Toddlers Are Taking Off!
1. Happy & Secure - baby is happy, secure, calm and content and that makes for
happier parents. You will both be seeing the world around you from the same
eye view and will naturally talk to your baby about what you're both seeing. If
your baby is startled by something, they will be comforted by their closeness to
you and more ready to accept new facesand places.
2. Useful & Effective - baby wearing makes daily life much easier. You can get on
with all the things you need to do - play with other older children, pop to the
shops, run errands and still keep your baby close to you. You will feel more
confident and less tied down, while your baby feels comfortable, secure and
warm.
3. Eases Discomfort - if your baby suffers from reflux, colic or wind after feeding,
holding them in an upright position eases discomfort and makes it easier for any
gas to pass through their bodies, and reduces possetting.
4. Convenient - More convenient and much easier to get in and out of the car and
manoeuvre around then a pram or stroller. A baby wrap or carrier folds up easily
to fit in a nappy bag and it can be thrown in the washing machine when dirty.
You are also much more mobile and can carry even heavy toddlers in comfort
and style.
5. Brownie Points - A bit of one on one quality time between dad and baby is a
fantastic way of dads bonding with their little one, and gives mum that much
needed break, not to mention earning serious brownie points!
Our Top 5 Reasons For Dad's to carry their babies
What our Dads say:
Sharon Pearson - the other day my hubby said, Having
this (he was talking about his buckle carrier) is much
better than pushing an empty buggy around (noting
the other dads with empty buggys chasing toddlers),
and I dont understand why everyone hasnt got one!
Ben Longden "It's much better than pushing
a pram around and they can see so much
more from that height. Going into shops is
no hassle at all. Plus it's like one big long
cuddle! I don't really know why prams are
the norm when slings exist."
Jason Ede There is
something magical about
carrying your child. When they
cuddle in, and when they go to
sleep, its so good to feel them
breathing all safe, snug and happy.
When theyre older and start to point
things out, then it is so much easier
to see, understand and interact
with them when theyre
at your level.
COMPETITION TIME
We have an amazing Beco Soleil Buckle Carrier to
give away to one lucky reader!
The NEW Beco Soleil, Version 2 includes a snap-on
bag with every purchase to carry little essentials
(nappy, purse, wipes or treats) in addition to the
integrated waistband pocket, key and toy tabs.
Designed to carry babies from birth** to pre-
school (7-45lbs) in three comfortable carrying
positions - front, back and hip (** from birth when
used in conjunction with the Soleil Insert, from 4-5
months without the insert), the Beco Soleil is the
original bold and colourful baby carrier created by
award winning baby carrier manufacturer Beco
Inc.
With its amazing easy-to-use features, elegant
design and mix-and-match accessories, the Beco
Soleil is everything modern parents want in a baby
carrier: safety, comfort, versatility and
customisation, combined with amazing features.
Simply answer the following question:
What is the listed retail price for the Beco Soleil,
Version 2 (non-organic) Carrier?
(Answers at: http://slumber-roo.co.uk/)
My other half loves
being close to our daughter,
chatting and being able to take her
places without being left with an empty
buggy when she decides to walk. When she
was tiny it made him feel more able to protect
her from the world around and look after her. In
a pram he constantly panicked she wasnt
breathing or had taken her tubes out and it was
also a lot easier to manage with an oxygen
backpack than a buggy. Its been his
extension of their special kangaroo
cuddle time and they both love
it! Jennie Wood
One mum comments,
My husband says he likes how
close he is to our daughter when shes
in her carrier and loves how convenient
and easy it feels compared to the pram,
especially in certain places - we couldnt have
visited Robin Hoods Cave with a pram thats
for sure! He also loves using a carrier because
he can have proper little chats with her
and show her all the things shed miss
if she wasnt at our height.
The Childrens Activity Professionals Register (Capre) today welcomed
the main conclusions of the All-Party Commission on Physical Activity
report: Tackling Physical Inactivity, and the need to engage effectively
with children and young people to ensure that physical activity becomes
a lifelong habit. As the report highlights, for the first time in history, the
current generation of young people is expected to die five years younger
than their parents, so it has never been more important to engage
todays young people in physical activity.
Capre ensures that those working in delivering physical activity for
children in games, sports, and physical activity are qualified to deliver
high quality instruction and create positive sport experiences for
children. These requirements dovetail with the recommendation of the
report, namely that there is an important role for professionals
delivering physical activity in creating a foundation for a life of regular
exercise by giving them the foundations and skills for an active life.
Members of Capre also have an important role to play in terms of
community engagement and campaigning to motivate key audiences,
including children, young people and their parents. If properly qualified,
professionals engaged in delivering physical activity for children can
inspire children to engage in sport and activity and equip them to stay
active into adulthood.
Greg Small, the Head of Membership for Capre said: With just 51% of
children reaching the daily exercise target for young people there has
never been a greater need to arm children with the basic skills to take
part in sport. Capres qualifications and continuing professional
development requirements ensures that its members are equipped to
arm children and young people with the physical literacy required to
ensure an active lifestyle is continued into adulthood.
Capre helps turn the tide of physical inactivity in children
For more information, please visit: http://www.capregister.org/
Local chain of independent, family-run, childrens boutiques, Belle
Enfants, were given the great accolade of being voted 2014 National
winners at the Footwear Industry Awards for offering the highest levels
of Customer Service this follows being voted the Best Independent
Retailer at both the Nursery and Footwear awards in 2013!
Belle Enfants lovely Ringwood store Manager, Emma Butler, also
scooped a second award on the night at the National Motorcycle
Museum, being awarded the best 2014 Graduate Shoe-fitter by the
Society of Shoe-Fitters.
Amanda said We are honoured to have received this award which
acknowledges all the hard work that our whole team has put into
making Belle Enfants the success that it is today. Every member of staff,
right down to Saturday girls, has been fully trained by the Society of
Shoe-fitters to measure and fit childrens shoes correctly. We believe
in great service and great products, and this is the ethos that we have
based our business upon. Belle Enfants now offers a boutique shopping
experience without prohibitive prices for design led clothing, shoes,
toys, gifts and accessories for children from Birth to 10 years old!
Belle Enfants is also promoting Keep Feet Fit week to encourage
parents to ensure their childrens feet are correctly fitted and as such
continue to offer free no obligation measuring and checking of existing
footwear, along with a great loyalty discount scheme that works across
the whole store.
Award winner Emma said I am honoured that Ive been recognised for
simply doing my job. Im passionate about making sure every little pair
of feet that walk through the door leave happy and in the correct
footwear. Without the knowledge that I gained from completing my
course with the Society of Shoe Fitters, I can honestly say I would not
enjoy my job as much as I do, or be the proud winner of 2 national
awards within my short career of 1 1/2 years as a shoe fitter.
Belle Enfants have stores in Lymington & Ringwood and can
be found online at www.belleenfants.co.uk
And the awards go to..
Winner of two prestigious awards:
Leader in Customer Service & Student Shoe Fitter of the Year
Belle Enfants at the Footwear Industry Awards
Owners Amanda & Hannah Arkell (left to right) with Award
Winner Emma Butler (Centre) Ringwood Store Manager
The search is on for Britains most talented young
driver...who isnt legally old enough to drive on the roads
yet.
The 2014 Young Driver Challenge is open to those aged
between 11 and 16 years and is being run by Young Driver,
the UKs largest provider of under-17 driving tuition.
The first official entrant of the challenge was Reece Buttery,
the 12-year old TV star of the Christmas hit Gangsta Granny
and CBBCs The Dumping Ground, who set the standard
high for the 11-13 age group. The challenge, which is open
for entries until the end of July, judges the ability of entrants
based on a series of driving skills and manoeuvres, including
parallel parking, figures of eight, a turn in the road, steering,
judgement and positioning. Entrants will also have to
complete the Goodyear Driving Academy, an interactive
online driving simulator which puts youngsters knowledge
of the Highway Code to the test.
Forty top-scoring finalists from across the country, spanning
two age categories (11-13 years and 14-16 years), will then
compete at a final to be held at the Prodrive circuit in the
Midlands in September. The winners will receive a selection
of prizes including 40 pre- and post-17 driving lessons
provided by Goodyear, a Young Driver at School session for
them and their classmates and 500 off a car insurance
premium courtesy of Young Driver sponsor Admiral.
Kim Stanton from Young Driver said: Young Driver was set
up with the intention of reducing the shockingly high
number of accidents which occur shortly after youngsters
pass their driving test. We believe it is important that
youngsters learn to drive over a longer period of time and
at a younger age, when theyre more receptive to safety
messages.
We have given 125,000 lessons to under-17s since our
launch in 2009, and we have seen so many outstanding
young drivers in that time. Most of the youngsters who take
part in our lessons give 100% to perfecting the skills they are
shown and treat the cars with the utmost respect. We
wanted to recognise the hard work our young drivers put in,
and show the world how responsible young people can be
when given the appropriate training.
For the 2014 Young Driver Challenge, we have teamed up
with our sponsors to create a programme that incorporates
both practical experience through Young Driver and
education on the Highway Code through the Goodyear
Driving Academy. The prize package reflects this with a
fantastic package of pre and post-17 lessons, as well as
offering youngsters and their family a sizeable discount on
their Admiral car insurance.
Reece Buttery, 12-year old star of TVs Gangsta Granny and
The Dumping Ground and the first official entrant to the
2014 Young Driver Challenge, said: I have had a few
Young Driver lessons now, and theyre great fun, but Im
also very aware that Im learning some hugely important
skills. Id urge anyone aged 11-16 to give it a go, its a
brilliant experience. You get to do everything you would in
a driving lesson at 17, in a dual controlled car, but youre on
a specially constructed road course on private property
rather than the real roads. Im definitely keeping my fingers
crossed that my challenge entry might make it into the top
20 for my age category!
For more information about the challenge, or to book a
Young Driver lesson, please log on
towww.youngdriver.euor call 0844 371 9010.
TV star Reece Buttery is first official entrant in new 2014 Young Driver Challenge!
Search launches for Britains top
young driver aged under 17..
New to the UK, the imaginative designers at Mathy by Bols have created an extraordinary range of bedroom furniture for children. The collection
includes treehouse bookcases, campervan-shaped beds and quirky bedroom furniture, all of which are now available at cuckooland.com. Turn
bedtime into an adventure with the unusual designs by Mathy by Bols. Some of the beds are designed to look like treehouses, while others
resemble tents and campervans! These fun sleeping solutions provide kids with more than just a place to rest their heads as they also double up
as play areas.
Take bedtime to new heights with the incredible Treehouse Bunk Bed!
A dream come true for children everywhere, the Treehouse Bed is guaranteed to transform any room into the ultimate
hideaway. Inside there is room to store all your favourite books and toys, while the interior light turns it into a
playhouse. Who said that treehouses were only meant for the outdoors...bring the outside in with this fabulous new
bed!
Every young campers dream, children can camp indoors whenever they like with this Cabin Tent Bed. The A-Frame
bed will provide young adventurers with hours of fun, without the bugs or bears! Just like the camper bed, it has a
pull out section underneath that could be used for storage or as a second bed for sleepovers!
Shaped like a classic teardrop trailer, kids can camp all year round with the Mathy by Bols Camper Bed! Whether it is
used as a sleeping space, play space, or just a cool place to hang out with friends, this Camper Bed is where the best
childhood memories will be made! Features include a moving door, cut-out windows and a retractable roof, inside
there is storage for all your favourite toys and underneath there is a pull out drawer for additional storage.
This incredible collection will make adults yearn for their childhood. Bedtime has never been so much fun! Available
in a range of colours, prices start from 995. For more information, please visit cuckooland.com
About Mathy by Bols
In partnership with independent designers, Mathy by Bols manufacture exclusive pieces of furniture from their
workshops in Belgium. Founded in 1987, Mathy by Bols use only the very best materials to produce furniture that is
of the highest specification and quality.
To celebrate the launch of the incredible new range of childrens furniture available at cuckooland.com, the luxury lifestyle emporium are offering
one lucky reader the chance to win a fabulous Cabin Tent Bed worth 995, simply enter by visiting: http://www.littledarlingsmagazine.com/win-
a-luxury-cabin-bed/
TOTS AMAZE!
New Children's Furniture from Mathy by Bols
The most and least useful baby
products, as voted by parents!
Which? has calculated thatexpectant parents could save around 275
by not buying the 10 baby products that parents told us are least
useful.
Preparing for the birth of a child is undoubtedly a stressful time, and
with such a huge range of baby products available, it can be confusing
knowing which ones to buy. To help people decide which products
theyre most likely to need, and which ones arent necessarily good
value for money, we asked parents to vote for the baby products they
found to be most and least useful in their experience.
Top 10 most useful:
1. Stair gate
2. Baby change bag
3. Audio baby monitor
4. Electric steam steriliser kit
5. Microwave steam steriliser kit
6. Video baby monitor
7. Baby sleeping bag
8. Digital ear thermometer
9. Baby bouncer or rocker chair
10. Travel cot
Top 10 least useful:
1. Door baby bouncer
2. Baby washing bowls
3. Manual breast pump
4. Baby hammock
5. Fabric sling
6. Nappy stacker
7. Bumbo seat
8. Cot mobile
9. Swaddling blanket
10. Nappy disposal bin
Richard Headland, editor of Which?, said:
Deciding which baby products to buy, especially if youre expecting
your first child, can be overwhelming. Our survey of parents showed
some clear winners that will make life with a newborn much easier, and
those you can probably do without.
As well as testing and reviewing baby products, Which? also has a
wealth of advice for expectant parents onwhere to give birth. Which?
Birth Choice is a free website, supported by the Royal College of
Midwives, that brings together all the facts about local maternity
services and provides women with personalised results based on their
preferences, so they canplan the birth they want. www.which.co.uk/birth-choice
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Canadian Goose Down duvet and
pillow range. Soft and indulgent
with a 100% Cotton Batiste
Levissima cover. 5 year guarantee.
the ultimate
in luxury for cot or cotbed. Hand finished
and filled with 100% Siberian Goose Down
creating the softest and lightest of duvets.
10 year guarantee.
our perfect first
pillow for baby. Goose Down contained
within a 100% Cotton casing provides
gentle support.
**Please note that babies must be 12 months or
older before sleeping with a duvet or pillow.

May - June Issue 2014

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